This Story No Title A School Rumble Fanfic Chapter 8: Jealousy Makes Fools Of Us All By John Biles **************** "What a mess," Eri said at school on Monday. Tenma nodded. "I know," she said. Tenma, Eri, Akira, and Harima were hanging out before classes begun. "Well, I got us out of it," Harima said. "Miko-chin and Hanai-san got us out of it," Tenma said. "Picky, picky," Harima grumbled. Akira smiled a little. "Don’t forget, club tonight." "Right," Harima said. "It’ll hurt less, right?" "That depends on you," Akira said. Mikoto entered and sat down with them. "Ugh. My whole body aches." "Being stuck to Hanai for a whole weekend would do that," Akira said. She looked around. "Wow, I got here before he did." "He does usually get here early," Tenma said, frowning. "I hope nothing bad has happened." ************** Hanai fled across the dojo grounds in his underwear. "I have to be at school!" he shouted. "When you defeat me, you can go to school!" Mr. Hanai replied, chasing after him. "But I can’t defeat you!" Hanai protested. He got his feet swept by his father, and had to roll and leap up onto a boulder to get away. "Well, you may be a wee bit late today, then," Mr. Hanai said, eyes gleaming. Well, I never liked English all that much anyway, Hanai thought. ************** It was only at lunch that Mikoto figured out what had been niggling at her all morning. She looked over at Imadori; he sat quietly in his chair, eating his lunch, all by himself. His usual lunch gang were clustered off a ways, busy eating and yammering their usual pervert talk. She frowned; this kind of introversion wasn’t like him. It worried her a little, and she feared it was likely the result of what happened the previous day. I guess he’s just worn out, she thought. Hanai now stumbled in, sat down with his lunch, and began eating; he had a huge sandwich, which was unusual for him. He looked kind of worn himself. I don’t feel that tired, do I, she asked herself. And why is Hanai so late? Mikoto drifted over to Hanai. "You okay?" "Father was still in one of his moods," Hanai said, sighing. "I wasn’t able to get away until Mother came out and dragged him off." Mikoto nodded. "I know how he gets, sometimes. He’ll get over it." Hanai looked over at Imadori, then at Tenma, Harima, Eri, and Akira. "Hmm, you ever met his mother, Suou?" "Didn’t she help to drive people to and from the battle? Beyond that, not really." "She wasn’t too happy," Hanai said. "And I can’t blame her. I don’t think she’ll try anything, but...I don’t know. Imadori may try something." He sighed. "I’ll talk to him, make sure there’s not any trouble," Mikoto said. "Or at least that it sticks to Sensei and not us." "Thanks," Hanai said. She went over and sat down by Imadori. "Hey," she said softly. "You feeling any better?" He turned and stared into her eyes for a moment, then slowly said, "I hurt less." She winced. "I’m sorry." "Not your fault, Miko-chin," he said, sounding drained. "You did your best to help us get free." "I never would have gotten you into that by my own choice," she said, feeling more regretful at how wiped out he seemed. "I know," he said softly. He was staring into her eyes with an unfocused gaze; it slightly disconcerted her that he wasn’t looking at her breasts. "Anyway, it might be safer to avoid our dojo, okay? For a while?" "No danger of me coming near that man," Imadori said. "Is Karen here?" She blinked. "She’s over there as usual." She pointed to where Karasuma, Yuuki, Sagano, Fuyuki, and Karen were having lunch together as they frequently did now. He turned, slowly, like a zombie. "Oh." "Did you want to talk to her?" she asked. "Can you thank her for me?" he asked. "I think I have to sleep now." He yawned. Mikoto blinked. "You really are wiped out." "I slept badly," he said. "After lots of ouches." He yawned again. "Napping now, thank you, Miko-chin." He slumped over. She sighed and headed over to Karen. "Hey, Ichijou-san," she said. "Imadori asked me to thank you." "For what?" Sagano asked curiously. "I really couldn’t do anything," Karen said, sounding guilty. Yuuki looked curiously at Mikoto. Fuyuki snapped a photo of her. Karasuma extracted another sardine from his lunchbox and downed it, then ambled off over to Imadori and began examining him as he slept. Mikoto looked at Karasuma curiously, then turned back to Karen. "Don’t be too hard on yourself; Hanai and I were bound for over a day." "What, is this some S&M thing?" Sagano asked. Yuuki blushed. "No, martial arts," Mikoto said firmly. "Marital arts, check," Sagano said, grinning. "NO!" Mikoto said. "Do you think Tenma, Harima, and Yakumo would do S&M with each other?" She regretted saying this immediately, and somewhat regretted ever learning to speak. "Oooh, kinky," Sagano said. Mikoto said, "It was just a training exercise that got messy." "I really didn’t do much," Karen said. "Does Hanai- sama do that sort of thing often?" "Not too often, thankfully, but Hanai forgot to call home Friday night when we stayed at Tenma-chan’s place." "That’s strict parenting," Karen said. "Anyway, you might wanna try cheering Imadori up a little," Mikoto said. "When he wakes up." Karen nodded. "Thank you." "No problem." *************** Yakumo flew over the city with the eagles, circling easily on the winds. Tokyo looked so beautiful from above. She banked gently, following Akira-chan’s lead, with onee-chan and Kenji as her wingmen; Sara flew above the formation, keeping watch for trouble from above, and eagles flocked all around them. She smiled as they swung over the bay, then headed north. But then the turbulence built up, until she could hardly fly. She began to fall; Kenji and onee-chan grabbed her hands but it was all shaking and then... "You can’t sleep through lunch or you’ll go hungry," Sara said, waking Yakumo up. Yakumo felt embarrassed. "I’m sorry." "It’s okay," Sara said. "So, did you manage to kiss him this weekend, hmm?" Yakumo sighed. "No." "Well, I will have to set my backup plan in motion," Sara said. Yakumo looked at her nervously. "Is that wise?" "We learn from our sufferings; it purifies the soul," Sara said. Yakumo didn’t want that sort of purification. ************* Harima slouched and Akira rapped him across the knees with her baton. "That won’t do," she said. "Straighten your back." Is this Tea Club or is it beat up Kenji club, he wondered. He glanced over at Eri; her posture seemed to be perfect this time; Sara hadn’t whacked her once. He could see Yakumo making tea. It smelled wonderful. I can do this, he told himself. It’s just a way of posing, and I’m good at posing. Yes, I can do this. Whack! "No daydreaming," Akira said. "You’re harsh," Harima said. "Tea Club is not for the weak," Akira said. "Exactly," Eri said. Harima grunted on the inside. He wouldn’t let her show him up. No way. Yakumo now came over and poured tea for everyone. She passed a glass to Eri, but Akira held a hand up when she approached Harima. "Not yet," Akira said. "He must kneel properly." Eri sipped her tea, looking graceful. Harima grunted and forced himself into the right pose, then tried to lock himself in place. "Too rigid," Akira said, rapping his knees again. "This is Tea Club, not Paralysis Club." "But if I’m not rigid, I slump," he protested. "Well, if it’s too hard for you, you can give up," Eri said. "I NEVER GIVE UP!" It’s something I like about you, Eri thought, smiling a little. You never give up. ************* Tenma sat and watched the 2-C band practice. They were very good, she thought; she envied their skills. Karasuma was like a god of guitar; he seemed so intense with his slightly furrowed brow and firm grip on the guitar. Watching Karen sing ‘Rock Me Like A Hurricane’ was kind of incongrous, though. As she watched, Imadori drifted in and sat down by Tenma. Karen’s eyes lit up, and Tenma could hear her start to sing with more force. Tenma said, "Hello, Imadori-kun. Feeling better?" "Maybe tomorrow," Imadori said. "I’m tired." He slouched tremendously. Tenma patted his hand. "Get some rest. So, come to watch Karen sing?" she teased. "Yes," he said. Karen missed a note, hearing this, then launched into the song with even more enthusiasm. "You really should make up your mind on one woman. Didn’t you go out with her rival on Friday?" Tenma asked. Karen lost a few notes at that and garbled a line as she rocked like a sugarcane. "Lala and I had a great time," Imadori said. What little of it he remembered was great. "I may ask her out again." He kept an eye on Karen. Karen managed to pull herself together after Sagano gave her a curious look. They reached the end of the song, and Sagano asked, "So what do you think?" "It was awesome!" Tenma said. "Needs more cowbell," Imadori said. "That’s Don’t Fear the Reaper," Sagano said. "Oh, right," Imadori said. "Karen, you sing well." She looked embarrassed. "Thank you." Imadori said, "I need a favor from you, Karen." "Hmm?" she asked. "I need you to take me out this afternoon." "..." "Man, you have balls," Fuyuki said. "Balls would be if he did it with Lala watching," Sagano said. "I...sure..." Karen said, stunned. "Imadori, you monkey, you can’t date two women at once!" Tenma said. "I’m not asking Lala to come with us," Imadori said. "..." Sagano gently pushed Karen forward. "Go date. We’ll practice a capella." "I don’t know that one," Karasuma said. "I...Karasuma, will you go on a date with me?" Tenma asked, impulsively. He blinked, then nodded. "Yes." So much for band practice, Sagano thought. *************** Karen hauled Imadori along, carrying him over one shoulder. She had a bad feeling he’d asked her to ask him out in order to get a ride home, though they were on the way to a cafe right now. He seemed to be half-asleep. "Tired?" she asked softly. "Yeah. I’ll be fine tomorrow," he mumbled. If you don’t crush me, anyway, he thought. Her strength kind of scared him, but not as much as being unable to make it home and having to sleep alone in the school did. "How about Cafe Mercado?" Karen asked. "That would be fine," Imadori said. "Whatever you like." He was enough of a gentleman to let the woman paying for everything pick the place. "You should take up some physical training," she advised as she hauled him in and put him in a chair. "I’m not going near the dojo ever again," Imadori said. "Unless maybe I hear Miko-chin will be going topless or something." Karen frowned and studied the menu. He was oblivious. "Now that would attract business like crazy. Topless martial arts. Well muscled men, busty women...everyone wins." Karen wished she’d thought to ask Tenma for another care package. "Wouldn’t people get distracted? Also, it’s hard for a woman to fight with...her body parts flopping." Imadori looked up at her, studying her assessingly as the waiter came over. Karen blushed a little. The waiter said, "May I take your order?" "Sphagetti for me with some tea," Karen said. "Black tea with lasagna," Imadori said. Once the waiter left, he continued to study Karen. She wasn’t sure whether to be nervous or pleased by the scrutiny. "Did you have fun with Harry?" he asked. "Yes," she said, half-hoping he’d feel jealous. "He was a good date." "That’s nice," he said. "Lala and I had a good time, I think." He continued to stare at her intensely; she couldn’t read his expression, though, which looked very flat. She felt a twinge of jealousy. "We may be going out again this weekend," she said. He continued to stare at her as he ate. She noticed his hand reaching for a small bottle of hot sauce on the table. He began to empty it into his tea as he looked at her. She wasn’t sure if she should say anything; maybe he meant to do this. "You like him?" Imadori asked lightly. "He’s nice," Karen said, sipping her tea, becoming even more self-conscious. She adjusted her shirt slightly. "Well, Lala was a lot better date than I feared," he said, then took a huge swig of his tea, then gagged. "AAAAHHHH!!!!!" He fell out of his chair, and Karen darted around the table. "Imadori-kun!" Imadori waved his hand in the air. "Water!" Karen fed him her tea. He leaned on his chair. "Someone poisoned my tea," he mumbled. She was afraid to point out she’d seen him put the hot sauce in it himself. "We can get you fresh tea." She helped him back up into his chair. "Thank you," he mumbled. She ate her food quietly, fumbling for something to say. Finally, she said, "Do you think we’ll have any more trouble with that giant gang?" "I think we put the fear of 2-C into them," Imadori said. He made a face at his food. "Everything tastes like hot sauce." She looked around, then grabbed several sugar packets. "Eat these," she said. Maybe the flavor will wash away the hot sauce taste. He chugged them down, then drank some water. His eyes crossed. Trying some food, he said, "It all tastes like hot sauce and sugar." She poured ketchup all over his food. "Try this." He gobbled some down, then shivered. "Helps a little, but I still keep tasting the hot sauce." She looked around on the table for anything else, then passed him some bread and crackers. "Maybe?" she asked hesitantly. He poured ketchup on them and ate them up. "Okay, somewhat better." He started to reach for his tainted glass. Karen caught his wrist, then moved the tainted glass out of reach. "Here you go." She frowned. "Maybe I should take you to your house. You aren’t...you don’t seem well." "I’ll be fine," he said, then planted his face in his food. Definitely time, Karen thought. **************** Going on a date with Karasuma was never the easiest of things, Tenma had found. He often didn’t seem to know what to do and she DEFINITELY didn’t know what to do. And it was so hard to tell if he liked things or to read him at all, even moreso than Yakumo. Right now, they were at the movie theatre, since they had never gotten to see the movie on Friday; it seemed like they had been in line forever. She kept trying to decide what sounded better. Five Easy Geese? The Flight of the Bumblebee? Love in Paris? Maybe Shining Happy People. A light comedy would be good. "Two for Nature Trail to Hell," Karasuma said. Or maybe we could do Kung Fu Hustle, Tenma thought. I like dancing, and Karasuma likes seeing people hit each other. Or maybe El Santo and Santa vs. Satan. I’ve heard it’s pretty funny and has action. "Two thousand yen." Karasuma paid up. But then, Five Easy Geese has all those pretty birds, Tenma thought. But I don’t know. "Do you like birds?" she asked Karasuma. "Birds are tasty," he replied. Okay, that’s ruled out, she thought. She continued to mull as he hustled her into the cinema and off down across the refreshment area. "Would you like popcorn?" he asked. "And a coke," Tenma said. Hmm, maybe the Scarlet PIMPernel. That was historical, right? All those shoes with fish in them. Karasuma bought their popcorn and soda as Tenma continued to consider options. Tim Burton On More Drugs wasn’t out yet, and Pimp my Pimp was too self-referential. It was only when she sat down and began eating popcorn that she realized they were inside. "Karasuma- kun, what movie are we going to see?" "Nature Trail to Hell." Tenma’s eyes widened. Yakumo had seen that and she had...not liked it. "But...things die." "Death is a part of life," Karasuma said. "But this is fake death." Tenma gulped. "You are safe with me," he said, then passed her colored glasses. "It’s in 3-D." She put them on, and everything looked strange to her. But maybe that was the idea. "I scare easily," she warned him. He nodded. She sat back and waited for the movie to begin. ************** "Oh, you’re Ichijou," Imadori’s mother said to Karen. She was a tall statuesque blonde; she towered over Karen and Imadori alike. She didn’t look her age; Karen would never have guessed she had a son Imadori’s age. Karen felt a moment of jealousy of her looks, but tamped it down. "It’s very kind of you to bring Imadori home from school." "He seems so horribly worn out," Karen said. "Did he sleep badly last night?" "Yes," she said, sighing. "He didn’t even watch the Playboy Channel before bed." She shook her head sadly, then carefully took Imadori from Karen. "Would you like to come in and have some tea?" Karen suddenly felt incredibly nervous, but nodded. The entrance hallway was loaded with pictures of race cars and trophies, although the closet door by the front door had a large picture of a younger looking version of Mrs. Imadori, standing by a racecar, but holding up a blonde baby like a trophy; a short brunette man stood next to her, helping to hold up the baby. They both smiled broadly. "Is that your husband?" Karen asked. "I’m afraid Hoji died when was four," Mrs. Imadori said. "I had to raise Kyousuke on my own, which isn’t always easy, as I have to go off to race cars a lot. Fortunately, he’s always been a good boy who stays out of trouble." She patted his unconscious head. "He’s so sweet." Karen nodded. "I like him," she said, then realized what she’d said and blushed. "Just remember, high school loves generally don’t last, dear," Mrs. Imadori said, now leading her into the living room. "This is the time when you learn what will help you later in life. Often by making mistakes." She gently laid Imadori down on the couch and pulled out a chair for Karen. "I’ll go make some tea, then I can put him to bed while you drink." She vanished into the nearby kitchen; the living room itself had a long couch facing the TV and several adjacent chairs, as well as a heater table. There was a folding table pushed against one wall with folding chairs. Pictures of landscapes were mixed with racing pictures; one wall, however, held about forty or so pictures of various men, ranging from tall lanky blondes to short redheads. Karen sat quietly and watched Imadori sleep; she felt very nervous, but things seemed to have gone well so far. Mrs. Imadori came out now, having taken off her racing jacket; she wore a green tank top under it. She had a plate with cookies and tea, which she poured two glasses of, then hauled Imadori off to sleep. When she returned, she said, "Do you know a girl...Lala Gonzales?" "I...yes," Karen said. "We wrestle together." Mrs. Imadori looked her up and down. "You don’t look like a wrestler. Now, that girl, she does." She frowned. "So what do you think of her?" "She is very energetic and works very hard. She is strong and determined," Karen said. And violent, but Karen didn’t like badmouthing people in their absence. "She seems very irritable," Mrs. Imadori said. "She can be," Karen replied nervously. "Do you think Kyousuke is safe going out with her?" Mrs. Imadori asked. Karen glanced at the wall of men; it kept drawing her eyes. This was a chance to try and scuttle the whole thing, but she couldn’t take it. She was too honest for her own good. "I think she keeps her promises," she said. Mrs. Imadori looked at her curiously, sipping her tea. "Is that a yes or a no?" Karen squirmed a little. "I don’t think he wants to be hurt," she said. Mrs. Imadori frowned, then sipped her tea. "I’m not sure what I think of her. She dresses well, and I have to approve of a woman not afraid to show her strength, but she seems a little...violent." Karen gulped, not sure what to say. "Umm..." She looked around to change the subject and stared at the wall of men again. "Various boyfriends," Mrs. Imadori said. "The better ones. Every woman needs a trophy wall." Karen’s eyes widened, then she said, "My goodness." "They’re the ones I remember fondly," Mrs. Imadori said. "Just remember, Ichijou-san, you’re still young. You have time to make mistakes. That’s what I’ve always told Kyousuke-chan. Though sometimes I think he maybe thought..." She shook her head. Well, he does make lots of mistakes, Karen thought, then told herself to be nice. "Well, we’re young. We make lots of mistakes." She sighed. "So true. Please watch over my boy; I have never been able to take care of him as much as I would like. He needs friends who can keep an eye on him." Karen smiled, feeling better. "Thank you, I will." "Just remember, when we’re young, we never think to chase the sensible ones. It’s the bad boys and bad girls who lead us off into trouble." Mrs. Imadori finished her tea. "But that’s part of the learning experience too." Karen thought about everything, and sighed. I am definitely the sensible one. And Lala is not. But what can I do? I’m not made to be wild. There had to be something. ************** Tenma screamed again, burying her face in Karasuma’s chest. He finally simply threw his jacket over her, hiding the screen from her. She shivered inside it, cuddling up to him. He seemed so utterly calm; she just couldn’t understand it. She could hear other people shrieking as well. "Doesn’t it scare you?" she asked softly. "It’s just a movie," he said calmly. Now she felt embarrassed, and she made herself look, just in time to see a chubby bunny chew off a Scout’s leg. "I’ve got me a lucky human leg," it thought in a loud voiceover. Tenma shrieked and hid inside the jacket again. She felt safer there, and felt ridiculous that it was scaring her so much. But then, it was kind of nice to get this close to Karasuma. Soon, his rock solid steadiness gave her the bravery to look again, just in time to see bears trying to tie the scoutmaster to a roasting pole. "AAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!" She hid herself again. My precious date is turning into a disaster, she thought. I should have paid attention. Yakumo warned me, but I didn’t listen! My date is doomed! Karasuma pulled her a little tighter and watched, smiling. ************* "Tea Club?" Eri’s father asked. "It’s a cultural thing," Eri said. "Traditional rites of tea drinking. My friend Akira is in charge." "Ahh," he said, putting down his own cup of tea. "Are you enjoying it?" "It’s a challenge," Eri said. "I like challenges." She grinned. "That’s my daughter," he said fondly. "Do you have a rival there, then?" "I...Harkenko and I are seeing who can learn faster," Eri said, digging a fresh trench for herself. "Interesting. So she is the traditional Japanese woman type?" "Yes," Eri said. "I would be curious to meet her some time," he said. I am so dead, Eri thought. "I’ll see what I can do." "Thank you." ************* It took a while for Tenma to realize the movie was over; she was still hidden under Karasuma’s jacket, hiding from it, when the janitor came and poked them with a broom. "Wake up, kids," he said. Karasuma rose, carrying Tenma out of the theatre; she now came out of her fear and poked her head out. "Am I flying?" she asked in confusion. "No," he said, carrying her out the doors and down the street. "You can put me down," she said, sighing. He didn’t. "I’m sorry I messed up the movie," she said. "I do not think you damaged it," he replied. She stared at him in confusion, then leaned against him. "I just got so scared." "It is what horror movies do." "But it didn’t scare you," she said a little reproachfully. "I am screaming on the inside," he said, his voice perfectly level and calm. She couldn’t tell if he was making fun of her or not. ************ "So, I heard you and Karen dragged off your boys to have your way with them," Mikoto teased Tenma the next morning. Tenma blushed. "I got all scared and screamed all the way through the movie. Utter disaster," she said, sighing. "He told me it was okay, but I’m sure he was just being a gentleman." "Some guys dig that," Mikoto said. Akira said, "It is easiest to get someone to be open to professions of love when they are terrified. Did he confess?" "No," Tenma said, sighing. "A wasted chance, then." "Waaaaah!" Across the room, Fuyuki came over to Karasuma, who was doodling a picture of Tenma with wings. "So, did the date go well?" he asked Karasuma. "Yes," Karasuma said. Fuyuki sat down by him. "Did you kiss her?" "No." "Man, you have to be bolder," Fuyuki said. "Before someone else swoops in on her. Like Harima...oh wait, he has a girlfriend...or Nara or...okay, Nara’s no threat, but say...okay, Imadori wouldn’t have any interest in a woman built like that..." Fuyuki tapped his nose. "Gotta be someone for you to fear." "When are you going to kiss Sagano-san?" Karasuma asked. Fuyuki waved his hands in the air. "What gives you that idea?" Karasuma gave Fuyuki the stare. Fuyuki felt like all his mental defenses were crumbling into fine powder. Weakly, he said, "She’s not the only girl I have naughty pictures of, you know. Don’t stare at me like that." Karasuma now donned his 3-D glasses. This helped somewhat, though it left Fuyuki feeling somewhat discombobulated in new ways. "I didn’t mean, stare at me in a NEW way," Fuyuki said. "I think I hear a client calling. See ya this evening." He scampered off. Harima staggered in, looked at Karasuma, and wished people would have told him there was going to be a movie this period; he could have slept in! ************ Lala looked up at Tougo. "Yes, Class Representative?" she asked. "I understand you went out with Imadori from 2-C last Friday," he said. "Yes," she said a little warily, wondering what his game was. "Having someone subverted in their ranks could be useful in future conflicts, but I thought you hated him," Tougo said. "I do hate him," Lala said fervently. "Why then..." "I cannot risk that Karen and Harry will breed," Lala said. Tougo threw back his head and laughed. "So which one are you jealous of?" "I am not jealous!" Lala protested. "Sure you aren’t," Tougo said, starting to walk away. "This should be interesting." ************* Nara lay exhausted on the bench. Weightlifting was hard work. But Sara had told him he needed to be a better athlete to get girls. And she was really cute. His father entered. "I didn’t know you worked out." "Just started," he said. "You should get your Mother to help you. Or Emma. Working out alone with the heavy equipment is dangerous," Nara’s father said to him. He looked contemplative. "So this Akira likes strong men." "Sara advised me to work out," Nara said. Nara’s father put a hand on his face. "Son, son, don’t go tangling yourself up like I did." "Oh come on, Dad, you know you like it," Nara said. "Also, I still haven’t told Mom." And Sara's not interested in me. "I did," Nara’s father said. "I just waited until after your date, so she wouldn’t meddle." "I guess I should find someone from my class to work out with," Nara said. "You’re right." "So, when’s the next date?" "We’re going to try again this Friday," Nara said. "So, did the Tsukamoto girls host a giant orgy, or was it all innocent?" Nara blushed. "Very innocent." "Good. Don’t rush things. Move at her pace, and it’ll flow well. Women will give you hints, when they’re ready for kisses and hugs and hand-holding and so on," Nara’s father told him. He nodded. "Kissed her yet?" "Not yet," Nara said. "Not surprising. Good luck, son." ************** "Well?" Sagano asked Yuuki. Yuuki blinked. "Well what?" "You gonna ask him out or are you gonna sit back and let Mikoto have him?" Sagano asked. They’d gotten together to study, but Sagano, not fond of studying, wanted to gossip and plan Yuuki’s kunitori. "I...well...they looked so close," she mumbled, staring at the floor. "Yeah, I was kind of jealous myself, and Hanai’s not even my type," Sagano said. "They were both so...man, maybe they are having sex." Yuuki’s pencil snapped. "But no, if that was true, there’s no way he’d be chasing Yakumo. You know Hanai. He would never, ever cheat on someone. Not in his nature," Sagano said. "Hmmm." "What?" Yuuki asked. "Maybe if we do you up to look like her..." "..." Sagano began doodling on her notebook paper. "Hmm, I’ve heard he has a bit of a hakama feti...AHAH!" "What?" Yuuki asked. "I am so stupid!" Sagano proclaimed. "IT IS SO OBVIOUS." "Yes?" "You need to join his dojo! You could see him lots, get special techniques, fulfill his hakama fetish...yeah," Sagano said. "But...I...I’m not a fighter," Yuuki said. "We can do it together," Sagano said. "That way, I can back you up, okay?" "Okay," Yuuki said. "I’d been thinking...about asking him to study with me. As I’m good at that." "Hmm, dual prong. You do martial arts to get into his world and he can study his way into yours," Sagano said. "Flawless plan." Yuuki wished she had that much confidence. *************** Mr. Hanai looked Yuuki and Sagano up and down. "Ahh, looking to train here, then?" Sagano nodded confidently. "Yes. We’ve seen how much ass your son can kick, so we figured it would be wise to improve our skills." "Do you have any previous training?" Mr. Hanai asked. "Does watching ninja movies count?" Sagano asked. "Dad made me take a self-defense course a year ago, but that wasn’t really any formal martial arts," Yuuki said. "Our classmate, Tsukamoto Tenma, her father taught it, before he left on his trip." "He was a very good staff fighter," Mr. Hanai said. "Did you do any weapons work?" "I’m a pretty good shot with a slingshot," Yuuki said. "If that counts." "Hmm, could be useful for some pressure point work, but not really one of our standard weapons," Mr. Hanai said. Yuuki nodded. "Mikoto-chan!" he shouted. Mikoto came out, a little warily. "Yes, sensei? Oh, hi, Sagano-san, Yuuki-san." Sagano waved cheerfully. Yuuki waved nervously. "Your friends have expressed interest in training here. I thought you might be interested in working on the basics with them; I expect they’ll both be more comfortable fighting a woman than a man to start with," Mr. Hanai said. "You never hesitated to clobber me," Mikoto said to him. "You were more of a man than my son to start with," Mr. Hanai said. "Though he’s gotten better." "HEY!" Mikoto said. Sagano snickered. "But with little kids, they don’t seem to notice or care about such things, really," Mr. Hanai said. "Anyway, you two are older than most of our beginner students and younger than most of the rest, so I thought I’d give Mikoto a break from working with our intermediates to try working with you two a while. Unless you’re here to chase college age men or older." Sagano looked tempted. Yuuki said, "Working with Suou-san will be just fine, sir." "So you mostly train kids up from very young?" Sagano asked. "The best students start young," Mr. Hanai said. "Mikoto-chan and Haruki are both very good because of that." Mikoto smiled a little at that. "Well, I’m ready to kick some ass," Sagano said. "Well, come with me, then," Mikoto said, and led them off to one part of the dojo; the far end had Hanai leading a group of kids through a kata, over and over. Several other students were clobbering each other near the middle by one wall; Mr. Hanai went over to them. They looked older to Sagano, so she guessed they were the intermediates. "So, do we do this Hong Kong Style?" Sagano asked. "You can both come at me at once," Mikoto said. "Oooh, gonna show off on us," Sagano said. She and Yuuki each drifted to one side of Mikoto, then rushed her. Yuuki dove for Mikoto’s legs, while Sagano lunged at Mikoto’s left arm. Mikoto jumped over Yuuki’s dive, turning as she did so to grab Sagano by the wrist and throw her in an arc across the dojo onto a mat. She landed behind Yuuki, then bent down and put her in a hold from behind, as Sagano got up. Yuuki glanced over and was glad Hanai hadn’t noticed anything. She struggled to get free, but she could hardly move anything, as her feet were off the ground and her arms behind her. As Sagano charged, Mikoto spun, so that Yuuki’s flailing legs kicked her, then tossed Yuuki over her shoulder and grabbed both of Sagano’s wrists, turning to toss her onto the prone Yuuki. "Okay, that’s enough," Mikoto said. Yuuki staggered to her feet. "No, come at me," she said, turning into a sideways stance. Her glasses glinted. Sagano remained prone, having a bad feeling. Mikoto looked at her and smiled a little, then rushed forwards, making a clumsy grab. Sagano could tell she wasn’t acting up to full skill. Yuuki seized Mikoto’s shoulder and arm and tossed her. Mikoto landed lithely on her feet. "You got that from Tenma’s father, I bet." Yuuki said, "Oooh, it worked." She looked relieved. "Yes, it did," Mikoto said. "Alright. Well, lots to learn. I’ll show you some things, and we can talk about Aikido. And next time, you can come at the start of lesson time and I can show you where to start." "Okay!" Yuuki said. Hanai finished with the basic students in the middle of the lecture and came over and just sat down and watched as Mikoto lectured and demonstrated. Yuuki glanced over at him nervously and he smiled at her. It was hard to focus on the lecture after that. Once they were done, Hanai said, "Hello, everyone. Thinking about joining our dojo?" "Yes," Sagano said. "However, right now, Suou-san needs to show me where the bathroom is." "The bathroom?" Mikoto asked. "Sure, follow me." As they went off, Sagano said, "So did you let her throw you?" "Yes," Mikoto said. "Yuuki doesn’t have a lot of confidence, so I thought I’d take the fall so as to help her believe in herself enough to have a chance at this." Sagano wasn’t sure if she approved or not. "Alright. Show me the bathroom." Meanwhile, Yuuki stood nervously in front of Hanai. "So, your father said you and Mikoto have trained with him since you were little?" "Yes," he said. "Father made me start as soon as I could walk. I hated it, but Father made me kept going and Suou encouraged me tremendously." Yuuki shivered slightly. Such an old bond. Can I really fight that? She could see them lounging together, content to use each other for comfort at night. But she had to. She could remember the setting sun... She wanted more moments like that. "Do you think you’ll take over this dojo together, then?" she asked softly. "I don’t know," he said. "It’s a good life, but it’s hard to stay afloat as a professional master these days." He looked around. "I’ve thought about chemistry too. But I don’t know. Suou and I talked about going into medicine when we little, being a doctor and a nurse, but I don't know if I could handle all the pressure." Yuuki imagined them as a doctor and a nurse, working together...she frowned at the mental image, then made herself banish the thought. "I like science," she said. "But I’m probably going to do literature in school, maybe teach." "I’m sure you’ll be a good teacher," Hanai said. He looked around. "Would you like to come inside and have some tea? I need something to wind down." "Sure!" she said eagerly. They ended up with mint tea and some odd cookies with chocolate cream inside. Hanai’s mother, a short, skinny woman with long brown hair, said, "I don’t entirely trust the recipe, so let me know if they’re any good." She then scampered out of the living room into the kitchen, but Yuuki could see her peeking around the doorway, which made Yuuki nervous. Yuuki sipped her tea and munched on a cookie and tried to think of something to say. Hanai took a deep draught, then sipped his own tea. "So what made you take an interest in martial arts?" "Well, after that gang nearly got us...I’d like to be able to fight better, in case they come back," Yuuki said. Also, I’d like you to kiss me. He nodded, reaching over to pat her hand for a moment. "I’m glad that you didn’t get hurt." She blushed and smiled broadly, then wanted to kill herself for being so obvious. I might as well put ‘I love you’ on my forehead, she thought. "I’m glad too," she said, then hated herself for speaking. I sound inane. She was good with words, but not when it came to Hanai. "Well, Mikoto is a good teacher. You’re a bit young to work with my students, or I’d train you myself," he said. Yuuki imagined them sparring alone, bodies in close quarters...she blushed more and stared down at her tea, taking a deep draught to center herself. "I guess even I’d kind of clobber the little kids." "Some of them are starting to get good. For an eight year old, anyway," Hanai said fondly. "I’ll warn you now—it’s a lot of work. You can’t just train up quickly, unlike a martial arts movie. And sometimes...Father gets weird ideas in his head." "Weird like..." She imagined Mr. Hanai stealing bras and underwear off his students with special punches. "Like deciding today’s training exercise involves trying to parry thrown grains of rice into a bowl or stealing honey from a beehive," Hanai said. "Though Mikoto isn’t as crazy as Father, so you’ll be fine, I’m sure." Yuuki imagined running away from bees. She HATED bees. "I see." "Anyway, try it out a little while, see if you like it. I hated it as a kid, myself," Hanai said. "Your father mentioned that." "Father had high expectations and I couldn’t meet them, and I couldn’t learn fast enough; at first, it just got me beat up more." He shook his head. "But we’re not little kids any more." She nodded, then saw Mrs. Hanai was still peeking on them. She whispered, "Does your mother always do that?" "Do what?" he whispered. "Peek," she replied, drinking more of her tea. "No," he whispered, then tried to glance over; this caused her to hide. "She never spies on Mikoto and I, anyway." Yuuki thought a moment. "Have you done your homework?" she said, louder. "I have my stuff with me...more is better than one." "That would be fine," Hanai said. SCORE, Yuuki thought. She paused. "Shouldn’t Sagano and Suou be back by now?" Hanai stretched in such a way as to let him stare around the room to see if the two of them were hidden somewhere, peeping. He didn’t see them. "Maybe you should go check on them. Since I can’t." She nodded, rising reluctantly. "I’ll be right back." As soon as she was gone, Mrs. Hanai sidled out. "So...is this the girl you’ve been mooning over?" "No, this is Yuuki, from my class," he said. "She’s thinking about training here." "Oh," his mother said, sounding disappointed. "Well, she seems quite nice. And I think she likes you." "We’re just friends," Hanai said. "Just don’t focus so much on one tree, you miss the forest, okay?" she said. "Mother, I’m fine," he said firmly. "Stubborn, just like your father." She shook her head. "Well, if you’re going to chase this Yakumo, get off your butt and do something besides mooning over her. Ask her out." Sweat poured down Hanai like a waterfall. "She...I...date..." His mother sighed. "Fine, I’ll do it." "No, no!" he said, as she stalked off to the kitchen. "Mother!" he cried out. He would have followed her in, but he recognized the stomping stride of doom. Nothing would stop her now. ************** Yakumo and Sara were seated on her back porch trying to draw flowers, when Yakumo’s phone rang. She answered, "Hello?" "Hello, this is Hanai Haruki’s mother, Sachiko." "Nice to meet you," Yakumo said. "My son is too much of a..." Yakumo heard an odd noise on the other end; it sounded almost like something whizzing past the person on the other end. "coward to ask you himself, so I’m going to do it for him." She heard vague distant shouting over the line. "He’d like to go out with you this Friday," she said. "I’m sorry," she said. "Kenji and I will be working on a project." Namely, the manga. Or maybe going out again. Or maybe she’d just be hiding under the bed. Any of those would be better. "Oh dear. How about Saturday?" "I work," Yakumo said. Humming noises ensued, followed by. "The Friday after that?" "I don’t know my work schedule for that week yet," Yakumo said. "Well, perhaps I’ll call you again later on his behalf," Mrs. Hanai said. I hope not, Yakumo thought. "If you like," she said. "Alright. See you later, goodbye." Click. "Who was that?" "Hanai-sempai’s mother, trying to find him a date," Yakumo said. "I think he and Suou-sempai make a cute couple," Sara said. "Yes," Yakumo said. "I was kind of jealous, looking at them, even if Asou- san let me sleep on his shoulder for a while," Sara said. "Well, back to art." Yakumo nodded and went back to work. *********** Hanai finished his tea as Yuuki returned with Sagano and Mikoto. "Was something wrong?" he asked. "We just started talking," Mikoto said, sitting down by Hanai. "Yuuki said something about studying together?" Hanai nodded. "Sounds fine to me." "Alright," Mikoto said. "Just don’t shout at Hanai to take it all off while his mother is listening," she said to Sagano. "She’s listening," Hanai mumbled. "I’m sure he would look good if he did, with all that exercise," Sagano said. "Not that I’ve seen pictures or anything." "Oh, I’ve seen him shirtless plenty of times," Mikoto said, causing Yuuki’s envy meter to spike. "He looks pretty good that way these days. And he’s a good swimmer." "You don’t...end up naked from fighting a lot, do you?" Yuuki asked weakly, her tea cup shaking in her hands a bit. "A few times," Mikoto said. "I remember that time Ken leaped at Hanai and tried to kick him in the chest, but Hanai started to turn out of the way, so his foot went along Hanai’s chest, inside his gi, and ended up ripping the gi off and flipping them both around messily." Yuuki imagined that and felt her head wobble. Sagano said, "Man, that sounds kinda cool. Even without shirtless men as part of it." "Sooner or later, we all end up partly naked, though it’s rare," Hanai said. "I remember when I was trying to learn this one grab, I must have pulled Suou’s top off three times. And I actually threw it away the first time, thinking I’d gotten a grip on her." Mikoto laughed. "Always remember to wear your underwear. And be careful about sparring with any perverted guys. But you can trust Hanai not to be a pervert. He won’t stare." Hanai basked a little in the glow of the warm regard. There was a sudden flash, and they turned, half- expecting Fuyuki, only to see Mrs. Hanai. She snapped another shot. "Don’t mind me." Hanai posed with a victory sign, which the others soon matched for a third photo. "Will you all be staying for dinner?" she asked. "I made too much stew, so you’d be doing me a favor." "Sure," Sagano said. "Yuuki and I would love to stay." "Yes, please," Yuuki said. Eating with Hanai’s family...it’s almost like we’re dating... Her glasses promptly fogged over. "Sure," Mikoto said. "We can eat and study." "Then let us begin," Sagano said. ************** As they headed home, Sagano could see Yuuki was definitely floaty. She smiled a little. "So, did you have fun?" "You are the best friend ever for getting me this chance," Yuuki said. "Even if he and Mikoto go around ripping each other’s shirts off all the time, I will still win!" "That’s the spirit!" Sagano said. "Man, now I’m wondering how many guys Karen has ripped the shirt off." "I don’t think she would." "Not DELIBERATELY," Sagano said. "I think she only wrestles other women," Yuuki said. "Don’t rain on my fantasies," Sagano said. "Man, now I’m gonna have an excuse to rip guy’s shirts off." "You needed an excuse?" Yuuki asked. "How can you say that about me?" Sagano asked piteously. "It’s true." "Well, I’ve never actually done it, just thought about it," Sagano said. "Hmmm. You know, I heard Suou and her squad went to the beach with Imadori, Nara, Harima, and Hanai. I’m sure SOMEONE scored some Hanai beach pics you could winkle out of them." Yuuki blushed. "I wouldn’t...I mean..." "Uh huh." Yuuki made herself stop imagining things. "Well, I might maybe be somewhat interested." "I’ll ask around," Sagano said. "Discreetly." Yuuki didn’t think Sagano knew what that meant. **************** Eri, in the middle of homework, had a sudden flash of memory. I meant to ask Butler-san about that package Kenji was trying to deliver when we hit him. She summoned him and asked. "It was sent to Dankosha, so I would assume it was some sort of manga, given it was too long to be a letter to the editor. A contest submission, I think," he said. Willing to die for a manga, she thought. Does he have a deathwish or something? But it did make her curious; she wondered what he would do a manga about. Probably some sort of teenage gang adventure with lots of motorcycles and fighting, she thought. And probably a hero who forgets to put on clothing at the worst possible time. She suddenly felt the urge to doodle, sketching out a shirtless guy being chased around a motorcycle by an angry girl with a hammer. Eri tried to shade her hair to look red, but wasn’t entirely satisfied. Butler-san returned, announcing, "You have a visitor, Miss." "I do?" Eri asked. "Is it Kenji?" "His name is Karasuma, Miss." What’s he doing here, Eri wondered. She came downstairs, and was surprised to see he was carrying a large picture, carefully placed in a plastic cover. She now recognized an inked and colored version of the sketch she’d seen him doing in class the other day. I suppose he came to give me a copy since I'm in it, she thought. "Hello, Karasuma-kun," she said. "Hello," he replied. "Would you like some tea?" "Yes, please." Butler-san soon brought them some tea. She sat down and waited for him to say what he had to say. Instead, he sipped his tea and stared at her intensely, while the picture hung out on the table. She studied it, seeing the colorwork was as good as the linework; she envied his skills. After a little of this, she started to get nervous, wondering what was going on. Finally, he asked, "Do you approve?" She blinked, then looked at the picture. "Of this?" "Yes." "It looks pretty good to me," Eri said. "Good," he said. "I will make prints once all approve." "What, for all of us?" Eri asked. He nodded. "That's nice of you," Erika said. Karasuma quietly sipped his tea. I just don't get what Tenma sees in him, Eri thought. He's so quiet, it's kind of creepy. "So why us?" she asked. "You are a part of her," Karasuma said. His gaze became more intense. "You share a dream." "A dream?" Eri asked, confused. "In the end, this is all a dream," Karasuma said. "We have our private ones and the ones we share. Some of us drift past each other, barely noticing each other, but others take part in each other's dreams, and thus become something more than what they once were." He finished off his tea. "Part of being an artist is to see the dreams not yet dreamed and show them to others." He tapped the picture. "Like this." "You could have drawn me with more clothing," Eri said. "That was not the dream," he said. She tried to decide if that was perverted or not. "You talk as crazy as Kenji does sometimes." He looked at her oddly, less intensely than usual, then said, "You love him." Eri's eyes widened. "What?" "I thought as much," Karasuma said. "I did not mean to trespass, but I do strange things in my sleep." Eri tried to decide if she wanted to understand. "I...uh...okay." "Have you ever..." he began, then stopped. "But not my business." Eri was about to yank her own hair. "Have I ever what?" He stared into his empty cup. "C'mon, don't be afraid," she said. What could he be thinking about, anyway? "Do you think Tsukamoto likes motorcycles?" he asked. "Yeah, I think she likes riding with Harima," Eri said. "It's a lot of fun." His eyes flashed for a moment and he nodded. "Thank you." "Are you trying to figure out something romantic to do with her?" Eri asked. He nodded. "Ahh, okay, that's not so hard. Take her to the Imperial Gardens. Good place for a date," Eri said. Even a weirdo like him can't go wrong there. He nodded again and rose. "Thank you, Sawachika- san." "You're welcome," she said, and saw him out. Once he was gone, she got to thinking about dating. I've got to figure out what is going on with Kenji, she thought. Hmm, a manga, she thought. Right after he spent all that time with Yakumo. They must be partners on it. Is that all? Tenma would be sure to misunderstand that. There had to be more. But did there? She wasn't sure. She got up and went out onto the balcony, staring out across the grounds. What do I want, she asked herself. And how far will I go to get it? **************** Akira reached for the next set of items to ring up, but nothing was there. She blinked, then looked up and saw Karasuma standing there with a nice print of herself, Tenma, Mikoto, and Eri as fantasy characters. "Nice," she said. "You approve?" he asked. "Yes," she said. "Thank you," he said, then walked off and the next person came up. Later, Akira would tell herself that she would have handled things just fine if the encounter had been planned for. She was at work at Green Springs Grocery, where she worked as a cashier. As a result, running was not an option. Karasuma had distracted her too much to spot Megumi until it was too late. She thought later, perhaps the hand lotion case should have warned her. "Takano-san!" Megumi said. "It's so good to see you." Akira carefully rang up goods, trying to avoid eye contact. "I understand you and Nara are going out again this weekend," Megumi said as Akira rang up a carton of milk. "Yes," Akira said, carefully focused on work. "Our last date was interrupted." "Well, I'll be happy to fix you up again. Best you look your best. I have a few other things you might find useful," Megumi said. "Oh, you really don't have to bother," Akira said, ringing up a bag of candy. "Oh, I don't mind at all," she said. "I can drop by your house this time, fix you up. I have some time off." "But..." "Perhaps some chiffon. Yes, that would go well," Megumi said. Akira finished ringing up food and looked up, finding herself pinned by Megumi's cheerful gaze. "I wouldn't want to..." "Oh, don't worry yourself. I love to experiment on a captive audience," Megumi said, then continued, "That's a joke." Akira laughed nervously. "13,023 yen." Megumi swiped her check card without even looking, continuing to smile benevolently at Akira, who felt her will shrinking...shrinking...shrinking... "It'll be fun," Megumi said. All Akira could do was nod. ************* "Sensei," Lala said. "Are you busy?" "I'm here to help students," Tae-sensei said, swivelling in her chair. "I'm just doing some of my boring paperwork while I wait for someone to get hurt." Lala smiled a little at that. "You were a fighter in high school, right?" "Yes," Tae-sensei said. "I wasn't too nice in those days." She shook her head sadly. "Did you ever..." Lala struggled to figure out how to explain the Karen and Imadori situation. She thought perhaps, as an older fighter, Tae-sensei might have some insight. "Have a rival? Oh yes, I did," Tae-sensei said. "I don't even know where she is now." She shook her head sadly. "She meant that little to you?" Lala asked in shock. "I've lost track of everyone but the other Golden Butterflies since then," Tae-sensei said sadly. "But at the time, I was fairly obsessed with her." Lala said, "Sensei, I don't know what to do about Karen and Harry...the babies...can you imagine the babies?" "Most high school loves never work out, I can tell you," Tae-sensei said. "And lots of college ones don't either. They may be dating now, but I expect in a year, they'll break up." "But until then...nothing will be able to beat them," Lala said hotly. "Well..." Tae said. "If you're looking for a male fighting partner, I'd say Hanai Haruki or Harima Kenji might be good choices. They both fight well and..." Lala frowned. "Harima seems to have several girlfriends, and Hanai is obssessed with an underclassman." "You have to have more confidence in your beauty, Lala-chan," Tae-sensei said. "There aren't many guys who could say no to a woman like you." Turning to stare out the window and feeling a spike of pleasure at the praise, Lala said, "Most guys don't seem too interested in me." "Well, Hanai respects strong women," Tae-sensei said. "I think Hario does too, but if you go after him, I think Sawachika-san won't stop until she sees you loaded into a plane and flown out of the country." "I had tried...but if I try another date with Imadori, I think I'll go crazy," Lala said. "He's a nice boy at heart," Tae-sensei said. "Once he grows up, he'll be a good date, but I can see your reluctance." "Hmm. Hanai is a good fighter," Lala said. "And cute," Tae-sensei said. "I don't like glasses," Lala said. "Well, he can take them off, I assume," Tae-sensei said. "True. Well, I'll think about that. Thank you, sensei." "Glad to help," Tae-sensei said. "Good luck!" ************* Sagano wished she was Tigger; a rearend made out of springs would be useful right now. She slammed into the ground again, rolling as she'd been taught. "Do we really have to do this so many times?" "Yes," Mikoto said, now tossing Yuuki into the air, catching her, and tossing her to the mat. Yuuki groaned. She kept trying to miss the ground, but it wasn't working. Sagano sprang up just in time to get one-hand grabbed by Mikoto. As she soared upwards, however, she suddenly found herself being snagged by Karasuma, who lightly landed, setting her down. "Uh...hi," she mumbled. "Karasuma-kun?" Mikoto asked in surprise. "Please study this," he said, passing her the print. She took it curiously, then said, "Wow, this is really good." He was already headed towards Mr. Hanai. Mikoto stared at him bemusedly as Sagano and Yuuki came and looked at the picture. "Wow, this is really good," Sagano said. "This looks like Nijou's work!" Yuuki said. "Yeah, it does," Mikoto said curiously. "Hanai-sama," Karasuma said to Mr. Hanai. "I've come to punish you." Hanai, nearby, heard this and froze. Mr. Hanai turned and looked at Karasuma curiously. "For what?" "What you did to Tsukamoto." Karasuma's voice held its usual bland, flat tone. "Defend yourself." "Outside," Mr. Hanai said. "Away from my students." He ran outside into the yard. The students all flocked to the doors to watch as Karasuma bounded after him. As Karasuma charged, Mr. Hanai seized his wrists and simultaneously pivoted and rolled, hurling Karasuma into the air, to come crashing down in the pond. Karasuma emerged dripping wet as Mr. Hanai moved into a ready stance. "Boy, she interrupted special training. You should know the law." "Laws exist for people," Karasuma said. He charged again; this time when Mr. Hanai reached for his wrists, he faded under the grab and punched Mr. Hanai hard in the gut, then came up in an uppercut, though it failed as Mr. Hanai drifted back out of range of the punch. They began to dance around each other, Karasuma mostly on the assault, Mr. Hanai on the defensive. "So, who's gonna win?" Sagano asked Mikoto. "Damn, he's good," Mikoto said. "And getting better," Hanai said, frowning. At the same time, Mr. Hanai was getting better as well, speeding up to match his opponent. He briefly pulled Karasuma into a lock, arms behind his back, only to lose his own footing to Karasuma's legs lashing around to hook the back of his knees. "What you're doing is dangerous," Mr. Hanai said, looking worried. "It is how I live," Karasuma said flatly, then feinted at Mr. Hanai's shoulder, following it up with a punch that nailed Mr. Hanai in the solar plexus. He staggered back and Karasuma swept him. "Life is but a dream." His followup, however, was ruined by Mr. Hanai reaching up with his legs to pull him down, then flipping to toss them both into the air and seperate them. Karasuma dropped into a crouch. Mr. Hanai said, "Then why the vengeance?" "Some dreams matter more than others," Karasuma said, launching a spinning kick. Mr. Hanai rolled to one side. "Cool, kung fu mumbo jumbo philosphy to go with the fighting," Sagano said, making mock punches in the air. Hanai sighed. "As long as Father does not get angry, this won't go too badly." "Betting on your father?" Yuuki asked. "Usually the wise bet, unfortunately," Hanai said. "I HEARD THAT!" Mr. Hanai shouted. This was enough, however to let Karasuma blind-side him with a kick. But not enough to keep him from grabbing the leg and twisting it around. He then poked the leg in five places. Karasuma gave a cry and suddenly looked baffled as he was then tossed into the air. "Dreams come to an end, sooner or later, though we may dream again later," Mr. Hanai said. "Come and get vengeance later with your own skill." Hanai frowned at that. "They are mine," Karasuma said, sounding a little confused as he was caught, thrown down, and pinned. "Let them go," Mr. Hanai advised kindly, then left Karasuma lying on the ground, rubbing his leg. "I cannot, any more than you can let your arm go," Karasuma said. "Well, then, go home, and come again when you are ready to fight me yourself," Mr. Hanai said, turning back to his students. "I have teaching to do." Karasuma sat on the ground, looking a little lost. Mikoto came over to him. "Can you walk?" He hobbled to his feet, then staggered and sat down. "I should be fine in a few minutes when the ki manipulation wears off," he said. "What was Father talking about?" Hanai asked. "Are you familiar with Lao Tzu?" Karasuma asked. "Sort of," Hanai said. "Exactly that." He tried to get up. "I must see Tsukamoto." He looked over at Mikoto. "Is it good?" "How about if..." Mikoto began. "I can take you there," Hanai said, picking him up. "Nice picture, by the way." Mikoto nodded. "It's good, but why don't I take him? I was about done with Sagano and Yuuki, anyway." "No, no, this will be fine," Hanai said. "I can visit Yakumo and all will be good." Mikoto sighed. "You have to give up on her. I will..." "We can take him," Sagano said. "That way, I can talk him into doing a cool picture of ME." Karasuma looked at her intently. "That's probably better," Mikoto said to Hanai. "But..." Hanai began. Sagano hefted Karasuma. She stumbled slightly, then with Yuuki's help, got him stable. "Come on, holy martial arts vengeance artist of love, let's go." "Look, Father..." Hanai began, then sighed. "I'm really sorry about what happened to Tsukamoto-san and Yakumo-chan, Karasuma." "I blame you not," Karasuma said. "Let's go, my steed," he said to Sagano. She laughed. "Ride on!" ************* "So what was all that you were saying to Hanai-sensei, anyway?" Sagano asked as she walked along with Karasuma. "It is very complex," he said. "Well, I'll try to follow," she said. "Besides trying to fight him, what exactly was dangerous about what you were doing?" she asked. He was silent at first, then said, "I could show you." She had a slightly nervous feeling, but her curiousity was more potent than her common sense. Always and in all times and places. "Show me the money," she said. "Money?" he asked curiously. "What you mean." "Clear your mind," he said. "Do not think, be." This was easier for her than some, as there wasn't a whole lot of thought in her head anyway. As she forced her inner monologue to shut up, everything seemed to go hazy for a moment. And then she was backstage at a concert. The band hadn't gotten on stage. Then it hit her--she and her friends WERE the band. And sixty thousand screaming teenagers were out there, waiting for them. She looked around at Karasuma, Fuyuki, Yuuki, and Karen. They were hard to recognize, between Karasuma's black leather, Yuuki's spiked hair (with accompanying tank top and mini-skirt), and Fuyuki's lack of glasses. But it was them, at least in some sense. She looked down and saw she was wearing a gauzy black shirt over a black bra and a black mini-skirt herself. Her guitar looked a lot more expensive now. "Let's rock," 'Fuyuki' said. An announcer shouted, "AND HERE COMES 2 DEGREES CENTIGRADE!" They rushed out onto the stage and into history. And then she was back to herself, carrying Karasuma down the street. Her eyes crossed. "What the hell?" She wobbled. "Dreams within dreams, wheels within wheels," Karasuma said. "Some dreams, though, are more real than others." "But you...how did...was that real?" "In some ways." My brain hurts, Sagano decided. ************* Yakumo blinked at Sagano and Karasuma. "Are you..." Sagano helped him down. "He's here to see your big sister. He needed a little help." She looked a little weird in her expressions. "I'm fine now," he said. "But riding you was enjoyable." Sagano laughed. "Anyway, I'm off, see you all later." She headed off. "Would you like to come in, Karasuma-kun?" Yakumo asked. "Yes," he said. She took him upstairs to her sister's room. "Onee- chan, Karasuma-san is here." "EEEE!!!!!! Hold on!" Frantic noises ensued, then Tenma emerged, wearing a nice dress. "Hi, Karasuma- kun," she said. "How are you?" "My attempt to punish Hanai-sama failed," he said. "But I have a picture for you to approve." He showed her the print. "This is great!" she said. "You can have this copy, then," he said. "I will make more for the others." "Thanks!" she said, then instinctively hugged him. After a few seconds, she let go. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to..." "I don't mind," he said, so she hugged him again. "Are we going out this Friday?" Tenma asked. "We can," he said, letting Tenma lead him off. I need to get Kenji to take me out, Yakumo thought. ************* Eri roared down the road with Harima. "So now what?" she asked enthusiastically. "Hmm. Racing would probably be the next thing," he said. "Maybe I should try calling Haruka, give you someone...no, she'd kick your ass." "Hmm. I know Imadori's mother races cars," Eri said. "Kicking an old woman's ass couldn't be too hard," Harima said. "Well, you know anyone else?" He sighed. "No." "Then we should see if she'll race us," Eri said. She turned to head off towards Imadori's house. Harima sat back, letting her drive and enjoying the wind going by. She'll be ready for her own cycle soon, he thought. She's got the money for it, I'm sure. "Kenji, you busy Friday?" Eri asked. "Dunno. Too far ahead to make plans." "Well, you wanna see a movie or something?" she asked. "Sure," he said. "How about Kung Fu Hustle?" Not quite what she had in mind, but it would do for a start. "Alright," she said. "You..." She thought. "I'll have Butler-san drive me somewhere you can pick me up. So Father can't mistake you for a ganger and take a shot at you or something." "He could just bring you to my place." Harima gave her the address. "Or I may be at Tenma-san's house, as I'll probably end up giving Yakumo a ride home." That could get messy, she thought. But, you have to work with what you have. ************** Hanai stretched, getting his muscles to relax and limber up. Hearing heavy footsteps, he turned. "Hello?" Lala strode boldly into the dojo. "Hanai Haruki." "Yes, that's me," he said. "Looking for a little practice?" She paused, then looked at him thoughtfully. "Yes." "Well, I was about to go bathe, but Mikoto likely isn't done yet, so I can wait," he said, getting into a stance. "I'm ready." She rushed at him, aiming to simply bowl him over with her sheer power. To her surprise, she bounced off him as if she'd run into a mountain, and then he grabbed her and spun, throwing her across the room into a wall. He then moved into his ready stance. "I'm not that much stronger than Harry as I thought," she mumbled. "You are very impressive," he said. She lunged for one of his arms this time; he dodged to one side and kicked her in the stomach, but she seized his foot as she was driven back. When she tried to spin him, however, he used her as leverage to bring his other foot up to kick her in the chin; she fell back, losing her grip. This time, she faked a lunge for his right arm, then spun and punched him in the upper chest. As he was driven back, she followed up with a kick to his upper chest, then tried to grab his shoulder while he was stumbling. He barely slid out of her grasp, but she was able to punch him three times, then kick him again; he grabbed her foot and threw her again. This time, she approached cautiously, then simply threw herself at his legs. He kicked at her, but she took it and grabbed one leg, pulling him down. She had him most of the way into a hold when a foot drove into her butt and sent her tumbling over him. Mikoto said, "What the hell are you doing, Lala?" She looked angry. "Just sparring," Hanai said. "It was just a friendly match." He got up and helped Lala up. "You here to try and kick Father's ass too?" "No," Lala said. "I came here to ask you out." Hanai stared. Frowning, Mikoto said, "Didn't you and Imadori go out last Friday?" "We will never speak of that again," Lala said. "But..." "NEVER. AGAIN," Lala said. Mikoto shrank in on herself a little. "I...I'm sorry, but I have..." Hanai began. Mikoto sighed. "She has a boyfriend, Hanai. Don't say no to Lala for her sake, because we both know you can't even hold yourself together enough to ask her out. And you can't, now." "I am a better fighter than her," Lala said proudly. "Yaku..." Hanai began. "Unless you want to go out with me again," Mikoto said, "There's no reason for you to say no to Lala." Her voice had that tone which Hanai knew from experience meant there was subtext he wasn't getting. Hanai tried to quickly process the situation. She was right. He had no chance with Yakumo, but... Maybe Mikoto's aggravated because our evening out was cut short. We never did see the rest of the movie. Lala was looking at him impatiently. So was Mikoto. Time was growing short. "Sure," he said, then said, "Mikoto, we should go Saturday and see about finishing Kung Fu Hustle, since we had to leave in the middle." Mikoto started to speak, paused, then nodded. "Yes, we should." "Good," Lala said. "Come and get me at seven." "I'll need your address," Hanai said. She gave it to him, then said, "You're a pretty good fighter, Hanai-san." "So are you," he replied. She nodded. "I will see you then." She strode off. Once she was gone, Mikoto said, "Didn't think she was your type?" "You practically told me to say yes!" Hanai protested. "Don't go dating people just because I tell you to!" Mikoto replied. "But if I said no, you'd have thought I was busy wanting Yakumo," he protested. "I'd have been right," she said, crossing her arms under her breasts. Women are crazy, Hanai thought. *********** "He's WHAT?" Tenma said. "Going out with Lala," Mikoto said, frowning. They were at school, waiting for class to begin. "But she...he...you..." "We're not dating, so I can't really say anything," Mikoto said. "If he chooses to date her, it's his business." She didn't sound too happy about it. "But you..." Tenma spluttered. "We're just friends," Mikoto said firmly. "Even if..." "If?" Akira asked. "Nothing," Mikoto said. Not even going to bring up what happened with my old tutor. Eri came in and sat down. "What's up?" "Hanai's going on a date with Lala." "Really?" Eri asked in surprise. "I wonder how Imadori will take that." "After their date, which I can hardly believe happened, he'll probably be glad to let Hanai suffer," Mikoto said gloomily. Imadori loomed out of the mists. "Take what?" "Lala's going out with Hanai this weekend." "WHAT? She can't do that!" Imadori protested. "We..." He cut himself short in time. "She can do whatever she likes," Mikoto grumbled. "Miko-chin, we have to go out and stop them," Imadori said, grabbing her hands. "What?" she asked in confusion. "Do you want to see them together?" "No," Mikoto said. "She's bad for him." "I can't allow a classmate to suffer like that," Imadori said. "You sound jealous," Akira said. "Just keep dating Nara so he can't hit on me in drag again," Imadori said to her, then turned to Mikoto. "We're his only hope." Tenma felt her head get fuzzy as she tried to follow the chains of logic. "He's better looking in drag than you are out of it," Akira said. "Ice buuuurn," Eri said, grinning a little. Imadori turned, only to find himself pinned by an Akira stare. He began to shrink. "Please, Miko-chin, we're his only hope." I shouldn't do this, Mikoto thought. I don't even know what Imadori's plan is, but I can almost guarantee it will be stupid. But she couldn't let Lala go out with Hanai. What was I THINKING, she asked herself. She had no reply. "Alright, alright, I'll do it," Mikoto said. "Perfect," he said. "This Friday, at seven." He skipped away happily. "Are you sure this is wise?" Tenma asked dubiously. "Probably not wise at all," Mikoto said. "Didn't see you as the jealous type," Akira said. "I am certainly NOT jealous," Mikoto said. "I'm just looking out for his interests." "Uh huh," Akira said. "I am!" "Uh huh." Mikoto gave up and turned to pouting to pass the time until class. ************** "Yes, he's going out with Mikoto this weekend. Guess the date with Lala went poorly," Yuuki said. Sagano sat quietly eating her lunch as Yuuki and Karen talked. Karen frowned. "I suppose Hanai-sama's way of punishing them for breaking in probably made him not want to go out with her again." "Punishing?" Yuuki asked. Karen explained the whole thing. Yuuki's eyes were wide. "I hope he doesn't do anything like that to us, Sagano-san." Sagano continued to funnel rice and beans into her mouth. "Sagano-san?" Sagano started, snapping out of a daydream about being a pirate. "What?" "You seem kind of out of it today," Yuuki said. "I was a pirate," Sagano said. "Man, the English are probably going to sink my ship now." "What?" Yuuki asked. "Nothing, just a daydream," Sagano said. "Who are we gossipping about?" "Imadori-san. He got Suou-san to go out with him," Yuuki said. Sagano's eyes widened. "That's a joke, right?" "No." She gulped. "I'll...be right back." She ran over to Karasuma, who was busy eating sardines. He looked up at her. She kneeled by him. "This is...you did wake us up, right? When you did that thing? Or is this a dream?" "All is but a dream," he pronounced. "I just...But is this my dream?" He looked around thoughtfully. "Not your deepest dream, no." "Am I supposed to be here?" "Yes," he said. "So Imadori is really going on a date with Mikoto?" "Yes." She frowned. "You sure?" "Yes." "Reaaaaally sure?" "Yes," he said. "Are you actually paying attention to me?" "Yes." "Are you secretly snogging Harima?" "No," he said. She sighed. "How did you...that thing?" "A knack," he said. "It...it was kind of cool. But also a little frightening," she said. "Yes," he replied, finishing off his last sardine. "Can you...is it teachable?" "I don't know," he said, then seemed to stare off into space for a moment. "Dream big," he told her. "Right," she said. "I'd better go finish my lunch." He nodded. "Good day." *********** "Are you and Yakumo going out this Friday?" Tenma asked. "I'm going out with Karasuma-kun." Harima winced at that. Even as he got closer to her, Karasuma seemed to be starting to move in for the kill. "I suppose we could go out Saturday," he said. "I think she works Saturday. What's up for you on Friday?" "Eri-san and I are going to a movie," Harima said. "But really, Yakumo could come with us. The bike can hold three, and I think she'd like it more than the last movie." Tenma slapped her forehead. "Kenji-kun, you can't go to a movie by yourself with another woman when you're seeing someone else!" "It's not a date or anything," he said. "I'll ask Yakumo if she wants to go," he continued. "And..." Tenma looked at him intently. "You must be good to Yakumo. Don't let your manly monkey instincts lead you astray. You should have asked Yakumo, not Eri." "Eri asked me," Harima said. "Oh," Tenma said. "It's probably her way of thanking you for saving her. That's fine. You can take Yakumo out on Saturday." "She works," Harima said. "Oh, well, I'll sub for her," Tenma said. "Shouldn't be too hard." Hmm, well, maybe in that case, I should ask Tae- sensei to come, as she really helped me out too, he thought. "I'll talk to Yakumo," he said. I just wish I could go out with you, he thought. But it seemed like... She hugged him tightly. "You're a good guy, Kenji- kun. I'm lucky to have a good brother-in-law like you." His brain melted down, and all he wanted to do was to be hugged forever, even knowing it wasn't the hug he was looking for. He just didn't know what to do. He was getting closer to her, but it wasn't the kind of closeness he was looking for. But he didn't have the strength within him to resist Tenma's will. And half a loaf was better than none. So he would give in for now. ************* Mikoto stared at her phone. Did he really...could she... She just didn't know what to do. She didn't want to disappoint Masahiro, but could she really... Well, she had a little time to think about it; it was time to go study with Hanai. ************* He'd worked out the opening of the story in a loose stick figure outline, which he now passed over to Yakumo for her perusal. Having done this, Harima sat back to do some doodling of the various characters, and worked on teacher designs. Yakumo glanced over and saw him drawing Tae- sensei as a pretty fairy with butterfly wings. She frowned on the inside but studied the outline. It started with the hero trying to get to school on time for the first day, but various monsters kept attacking him on the way there. Some of them reminded her of people they'd fought the previous weekend. He rode on a magical metal horse; it needed a name, she realized. She glanced over at the sketching again. "Who is that?" "She'll be the school nurse," Harima said. "She's pretty," Yakumo said hesitantly. "And nice. She's a healing fairy," Harima said, carefully drawing her wings. His ability to draw so many different things without needing references always impressed Yakumo. "He needs someone to talk to on the way to school," Yakumo said. "Hmm, true. Maybe the horse could talk." "Hmm, that's possible," she said. "Oh, you wanna go see a movie or something on Saturday? Your sister said she could cover you at work. I'm busy Friday." "Sure!" she said. "What are you doing Friday?" "Eri wants to see a movie," Harima said. "So we're gonna go see one." "I...oh," Yakumo said. She wanted to ask to come, but maybe this was a date. After all, they weren't really boyfriend and girlfriend; that was just her sister jumping the gun. So she really shouldn't feel jealous, even if she did think that maybe, it was possible, she might like it if it was for real. "Have...fun." He didn't seem to notice her hesitation. "Thanks. We're gonna see Kung Fu Hustle. Since you didn't like Nature Trail to Hell...got any preferences?" "Hmmm. We could see the Tsubasa Reservoir Dogs Chronicle movie," she said. "Or maybe the Scrapped Princess one." "I heard they get attacked by the cast of Matrix in that one, for ripping it off," Harima said. "Hmm. We could see the Funeral Date." "Do people get killed?" Harima asked. "It does have a funeral, so someone had to die," Yakumo pointed out. "That should do, then," Harima said. "Okay, then, back to the manga..." ************* "This is how you do the chemistry equation," Hanai explained to Mikoto, showing her how it worked. "Oh, I see now," she said. "What a pain." "Yeah," he said. "Umm, Hanai-kun," she said. "Katawa-sempai, he..." She licked her lips nervously. "Sent me a message, asking if we'd like to go on a double date with them." "..." "I can say we're busy if you...if you don't want to go. I expect, since we had to run out early, that's why he asked." "It's not Friday, is it?" "Saturday," she said. "Okay," he said. "I'm free then." "I...I shouldn't drag you into this," she fretted. "I'm glad to help you out, Suou-kun," he said. "That's what friends are for." She smiled at him. "You're a good friend." "You're my closest friend," he said. "And it should be fun." He looked at the homework. "Funner than this, anyway." I can't keep this up forever with sempai, she thought. But I can't stand to tell him I lied to him, either. She sighed. Jealousy makes fools of us all.