Akamatsuverse Art Attack [LH]
- Thread starter Lord Raa
- Start date
Art Attack
Rewrites ahoy!
Some of the "new content" will be familiar, as I am now combining this idea with another Love Hina one I had.
And now, the prologue:
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Dear Mother,
I realise that theres very little you can do about my situation here at the Hinata Sou, but I must protest at the appointment of a male manager in an all-girls dormitory!
Just last night, I had to protect one of my fellow tenants here against his predations. Konno-san might have a predilection for sake, but that does not mean that she should have to fear for her safety should she be the victim of overconsumption.
He keeps having these accidents where he falls against girls, often touching us inappropriately. Or worse still, when he walks in on us in the bathing area.
For someone hoping to be a Toudai student, he is rather absent-minded and, if I may say so, a little dull-witted.
I realise that I may have complained about this before, but it would appear that the Grandmother Hina has decided that Keitaro is to take over the running of the property should he graduate Toudai.
I am not entirely convinced that he will manage this task, given his apparent inability to maintain focus on his studies.
I apologise for venting my frustrations in this manner, but it does seem to help me deal with this sort of stress.
I hope to see you soon,
Love
Motoko
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Dear Motoko,
First of all, yes there is very little I can do to help your situation, short of purchasing the Hinata Sou from the Urashima family and installing a new managerial team.
Unfortunately, we do not have the resources available for such a purchase, as the entire Hinata Sou property is approximately 5 hectares.
Unless you think we should sell the ancestral Aoyama home and relocate the whole Shinmeiryu School to Tokyo, I am sorry to tell you that you will have to endure things.
Remember, it is the hardships that we encounter that shape our character.
Secondly, I think it would be good for Keitaro Urashima if you were to allow him his space. It will allow him to study in peace. As Im sure youre aware, it can be difficult to study complicated subjects with the myriad of distractions that must be going on at the Hinata Sou.
Not only will it aid in his studies, but if you keep your distance, you will help avoid the accidents that trouble you so much.
I can tell that youre concerned for the wellbeing of your fellow tenants. Its understandable, given your innate compassion. If it makes you feel better, its a trait your sister often seems to lack.
But I also know that if youre keeping up with all of your martial arts practice, you will be ready to unleash your righteous fury should it be necessary.
Do your best and maintain a positive outlook, Motoko-chan, and things will turn out fine.
Lots of love,
Mother.
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Rewrites ahoy!
Some of the "new content" will be familiar, as I am now combining this idea with another Love Hina one I had.
And now, the prologue:
@@@@@
Dear Mother,
I realise that theres very little you can do about my situation here at the Hinata Sou, but I must protest at the appointment of a male manager in an all-girls dormitory!
Just last night, I had to protect one of my fellow tenants here against his predations. Konno-san might have a predilection for sake, but that does not mean that she should have to fear for her safety should she be the victim of overconsumption.
He keeps having these accidents where he falls against girls, often touching us inappropriately. Or worse still, when he walks in on us in the bathing area.
For someone hoping to be a Toudai student, he is rather absent-minded and, if I may say so, a little dull-witted.
I realise that I may have complained about this before, but it would appear that the Grandmother Hina has decided that Keitaro is to take over the running of the property should he graduate Toudai.
I am not entirely convinced that he will manage this task, given his apparent inability to maintain focus on his studies.
I apologise for venting my frustrations in this manner, but it does seem to help me deal with this sort of stress.
I hope to see you soon,
Love
Motoko
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Dear Motoko,
First of all, yes there is very little I can do to help your situation, short of purchasing the Hinata Sou from the Urashima family and installing a new managerial team.
Unfortunately, we do not have the resources available for such a purchase, as the entire Hinata Sou property is approximately 5 hectares.
Unless you think we should sell the ancestral Aoyama home and relocate the whole Shinmeiryu School to Tokyo, I am sorry to tell you that you will have to endure things.
Remember, it is the hardships that we encounter that shape our character.
Secondly, I think it would be good for Keitaro Urashima if you were to allow him his space. It will allow him to study in peace. As Im sure youre aware, it can be difficult to study complicated subjects with the myriad of distractions that must be going on at the Hinata Sou.
Not only will it aid in his studies, but if you keep your distance, you will help avoid the accidents that trouble you so much.
I can tell that youre concerned for the wellbeing of your fellow tenants. Its understandable, given your innate compassion. If it makes you feel better, its a trait your sister often seems to lack.
But I also know that if youre keeping up with all of your martial arts practice, you will be ready to unleash your righteous fury should it be necessary.
Do your best and maintain a positive outlook, Motoko-chan, and things will turn out fine.
Lots of love,
Mother.
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Art Attack
You may notice some subtle changes in this one...
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Art Attack
By Lord Raa
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Disclaim-me-do: The famous man looked at the red cup.
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Keitaro let out a long yawn as he lifted his glasses off his face and rubbed his eyes. He glanced at his watch and blinked repeatedly.
Its nearly dinner time already? I guess that Id better get washed up, he thought with a smile.
As the former ronin stood up, he decided that a trip to the toilet was the most important thing in his life and quickly left his room, momentarily forgetting that he had left out his sketchpad.
During dinner, he received several demanding looks as the phone started to ring. Sighing, he stood up and answered it.
Hinata Sou, Keitaro speaking, how can I help you?
?Im sorry to bother you, but Im trying to reach Keitaro Urashima.?
Im Keitaro Urashima, how can I help you? Keitaro responded cheerfully.
?Im Takeshi Kawashima, from Saishoudoujin Publishing Company,? the voice explained.
Oh yeah, Ive done some freelance artwork for you in the past. What can I do for you today?
?Im terribly sorry to impose on you right now, Urashima-sensei, but were rather desperate for some new work. Ideally, wed like you to write some new stories and illustrate them,? Kawashima explained.
Im cant commit to a lengthy series, Kawashima-san. Im currently studying archaeology at Toudai, Keitaro replied with a sigh.
Keitaros grades had suffered on several occasions during his later years in high school and cram school, thanks to his obligations for Saishoudoujin. It was not something that he was desperate to repeat.
?I can appreciate that, Urashima-sensei. But we have some holes in our production schedule and we need to fill them.?
I cant promise anything with regards to time scales, but I dont mind drawing anthology work, Kawashima-san. And I have to be careful I dont want the people around me to know what Im doing. They wouldnt approve, Keitaro smiled, turning to face the kitchen.
?I understand, Urashima-sensei. If its alright with you, Ill send a representative out to you tomorrow morning. Youll be able to discuss the contract and the work.?
Thank you, Kawashima-san.
Returning to the dining table, Keitaro prepared himself for the questioning looks from his tenants.
So, who was that, Keitaro? Kitsune asked, casting a questioning look at her landlord.
It was a job offer, Kitsune.
J-job offer? D-does that m-mean youre l-l-leaving us? Shinobu asked, tears welling in her eyes.
Keitaro smiled reassuringly. No it does not, Shinobu-chan. It was a job offer for some additional work that I can do here at the Inn. If I do take the job, it does mean that Ill need plenty of peace and quiet. Which means my room is now off-limits to everyone unless Im in there with them.
Now youve got our interest, Keitaro, Kitsune smiled. What are you going to be doing?
Id rather not say, but its nothing that will bother any of you, provided you leave me alone, the former ronin said evasively. I might not even take the job it all depends on the pay and if I can fit it in with my studies.
Motoko, having remained silent throughout the exchange, cast a sceptical glance at Keitaro. She tried to see if she could gain any clues about what he was planning, but recalled her mothers oft repeated insistence that she allowed him his privacy.
Even if he had accidentally walked into the bath when the kendoist was changing that very morning.
Naru was also silent, but her thoughts were occupied by what shed seen in Keitaros room just before dinner.
The brunette had poked her head into Keitaros room to remind him that dinner was nearly ready and shed caught a glimpse of his sketchpad.
Just where have I seen that art style before? she pondered.
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Keitaro greeted his guest politely and poured her a cup of tea.
Thank you, Urashima-sensei, Karin Sato smiled politely.
Karin Sato was wearing a charcoal grey jacket and skirt over a plain white blouse. She was a brunette with shoulder-length hair pulled back into a ponytail.
Please, just call me Keitaro-san, the bespectacled man insisted, his eyes darting around the room nervously. I dont want anyone to find out what Ive been doing.
But you always used a pseudonym, Ura- Keitaro-san, the visitor countered, correcting herself.
Yes, but still, I dont want the people who live here to think Im a pervert. There was a pause as he recalled the light most of his tenants saw him in. Well, an even bigger pervert.
Karin raised an eyebrow, but shrugged it off. She knew how strange creative types could be, having negotiated several deals with artists and writers before. And Keitaro Urashimas modesty was far from the worst thing shed encountered.
At least hes wearing clothes, she mused. Very well, Keitaro-san. We were looking for you to write and/or draw a few anthology chapters for us.
Whats the theme of the magazine? the artist asked, sipping his tea.
Its general adult content, Keitaro-san. Its in Ero-Ero Monthly.
Keitaros face took on a sour look. Ero-Ero Monthly?
Is there a problem with Ero-Ero Monthly? Karin asked, her eyes narrowing. You cant argue with sales figures.
Miss Sato, I think youre confusing popularity with quality. I appreciate that you must balance commercial interests with that of artistic merit.
Keitaro set his cup down. But let me be perfectly clear: I will not draw for the stories written in Ero-Ero Monthly.
Oh, thank you for your time, Urashima-san, Karin bowed politely. She got up to leave.
I said that I will not draw for Ero-Ero Monthly, not that I would not work for Saishoudoujin, the artist said, freezing the brunette in mid step. I was struck by inspiration and Ive got a few ideas for some short stories.
Oh, I apologise unreservedly, Urashima-sensei, the visitor bowed respectfully. She took up her seat and sat ready to hear what Keitaro had to say to her.
Theyre going to be illustrated novels, rather than just ero manga.
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Later, at Saishoudoujin offices, Takeshi Kawashima was impressed with how well his co-workers plan had worked.
Hes a skilled artist, so I would have been happy to have him draw the covers, he admitted. But to get some exclusive illustrated novels Im impressed Kenichi.
When it comes to artistic types, you just need to know how to handle them, Kenichi Honda smiled. I knew Urashima would never go for just being an artist on Ero-Ero Monthly, no matter what you offered him. Hes got too much pride in his work for that.
So by making an offer he sees as insulting, he counters with the chance to prove his artistic worth. Being an agent is all about handling egos, Takeshi, and if youre willing to keep your eyes and ears open, youll learn a lot from me.
I humbly await your wisdom, Sensei, Kawashima bowed theatrically.
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Six months later, Keitaro was sorting through the mail. He smiled to himself when he saw the envelope addressed to him from Saishoudoujin. Slipping it into his pocket he continued sorting through the rest of the days deliveries.
Turning around, he saw that Kitsune, Motoko and Naru were standing two metres from him.
Here you go, Keitaro smiled, handing the letters to the appropriate recipient. Is there something else?
Err Naru faltered. She nudged Motoko to take over.
Well, there is the kendoist also found it difficult to talk about what was bothering her friends.
Kitsune sighed. She rolled her eyes and finally mentioned why they were standing in front of their landlord. Keitaro, youve been a little distant lately, and were worried about you.
Ive been working at my other job, Kitsune, Keitaro replied with a shrug. Its been a bit hectic, but you know what its like when youre working to a deadline.
The ash-blonde rubbed the back of her head nervously, recalling that she hadnt written anything for a while.
Im sorry for being distant, but if youd all like to go out, Id be willing to treat you.
Kitsunes attitude changed completely. Are you really going to pay for us all to have steak tonight?
If it will make my friends happy, then Ill make reservations at le H?raut Culinaire, Keitaro smiled.
Where did you get that kind of money? the voluptuous tenant asked. Just what have you been doing for the last few months?
Its nothing illegal, Kitsune, the young man sighed. He paused to consider how much he should reveal to his friends. If you really must know, Ive been doing some writing.
Hey, thats my gig! How would you like it if I muscled in on your turf and started to manage a dormitory?
Its a different kind of writing, Kitsune, Keitaro insisted, holding his hands up in an attempt to placate her. Besides, Ive been doing some drawing as well.
That quietened down the tenants and they turned their attention to their personal mail.
Ah, Keitaro Kitsune said, suddenly fluttering her eyelashes at her landlord. I dont suppose I could have an extension on my rent?
Naru and Motoko face-palmed at their friends shameless behaviour.
P-l-e-a-s-e? the sake-loving girl asked, having appeared at Keitaros side. She started to trace circles on Keitaros right arm.
Keitaro closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He was struck by a flash of inspiration. Kitsune-chan, how much time do you need?
About two weeks she trailed off, well aware that she was taking a major liberty. She was already several weeks behind as it was.
Mitsune-sempai, I Motoko was interrupted by Keitaro.
Ok, Kitsune-chan, but that does mean we cant go to a fancy restaurant: itll have to be karaoke and a beef bowl instead, the landlord said in a serious tone.
Thats fine, the ash-blonde beamed as she led her friends away.
Keitaro quickly made his way to his room to work on his latest idea.
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It was obvious during the evenings karaoke that Keitaro was distracted by something.
Whats wrong with Sempai? Shinobu asked when her crush had left to use the toilet. He keeps getting the lyrics wrong and missing the cues.
Im not sure; do _you_ have any ideas, Mitsune-sempai? Motoko asked, turning to her short-haired friend.
Real subtle there, Motoko-chan. I asked Keitaro for an extension on my rent, Kitsune insisted. He was fine with it so its no big deal.
But what if the chef trailed off, concerned for her friends.
As much as it pains me to say this, Shinobu-chan, Naru sighed, All Kitsune needs to do to distract Keitaro is engineer a situation where she forgets to put the sign out and let Keitaro walk in on her.
That only happened the ash-blonde trailed off to count on her fingers, Four, no five times in the last two months.
I think youre proving the point perfectly, Mitsune-sempai, Motoko sighed. But you should be more responsible with your money.
Im getting better, Kitsune insisted. Its not like Ive gotten so irresponsible Ive got to offer my body to Keitaro to keep him from kicking me out.
She smiled at everyones blush until she looked up and saw Keitaro standing in the doorway. Ah.
The former ronin was standing with his arms folded. Indeed.
There was an uncomfortable silence as Keitaro walked to the table and finished his drink. Well, I think its time to call it an evening. Weve eaten, weve had some fun and weve learned something. All in all, a success, wouldnt you agree?
Yeah, lets all go home, Naru nodded. She stood up and slipped on her jacket.
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A few days later, Keitaro smiled as he slipped on his shoes.
Whats up with you? Naru asked.
Ive completed my latest piece, Naru-chan. Ahead of schedule, too.
The brunette nodded, but had a troubled look on her face. Keitaro
Whats up, Naru-chan? the writer asked, looking up as he finished tying his shoelaces. He rose to his full height. If theres something that I can help you with, please tell me.
Well, its
Do you need some extra time to get the rent money? Keitaro asked with a look of concern on his face. It wouldnt be fair if I said no to you after I gave Kitsune-chan two weeks, would it?
Well Naru trailed off. Damn it, thats not it all, but how do I tell him this now?
Ive got to get to post office, but if you need two weeks, youve got it. Ill be back later, ok?
Ok, Keitaro.
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Kitsune lounged on the sofa in front of the TV, much to Motokos annoyance.
Do you have any idea what that posture is doing to your back?
Naru shook her head, having long since learned to accept the fact that her sake-loving friend wasnt going to change her ways any time soon. She turned her attention to the ringing doorbell.
She rose to her feet and answered the door. Hello, Mutsumi-chan.
Hello, Naru-chan. Is Kei-kun in? the Okinawan asked with a gentle smile.
Hes at the post office right now, but he should be back before too long if youd like to wait for him.
Is it alright if I wait in his room? Mutsumi asked. I wanted to talk to him about some coursework.
Well Naru trailed off when she realised that she had a chance to find out what Keitaro was doing for his money. I dont see why not, Mutsumi-chan.
As she was led into Keitaros room, Mutsumi was surprised at her friends request.
You want me to go through Kei-kuns things? she asked, clearly shocked to be asked such a thing.
Its not like that, Mutsumi-chan, the brunette insisted. Its just Keitaro got a job, and he wont tell us all the details. Were just worried that someones going to get hurt, thats all.
But why cant you search through his things? Mutsumi asked, chiding her friend.
We all kinda promised not to, Naru trailed off.
The Okinawan sighed in disapproval. That doesnt mean I should be going through his things, Naru-chan.
I know, but
Mutsumi was torn between respecting one friends privacy and ensuring the safety of another. She hesitated until she could come up with a suitable reason not to.
Eventually, it was Naru that found the solution.
You only have to tell us if Keitaros doing something illegal or anything that might be dangerous, otherwise you can keep his secret.
Ok, Naru-chan.
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Twenty minutes later, the front door opened.
Im back, Keitaro announced with his usual cheerful voice. He walked into the lounge to see Kitsune watching TV.
Welcome back, Keitaro, the ash-blonde greeted, turning her upper body. So, whats up at the post office?
It turns out that the queues move just as slowly on a Thursday as they do on a Monday, the writer smiled. Did I miss anything here?
Mutsumi-chan is waiting for you in your room, the reclining girl answered.
Oh, ok, Keitaro nodded, he quickly made his way to his room, hoping that curiosity hadnt gotten the better of Mutsumi.
Nearly taking his door of its hinges, he was greeted by the sight of one of his friends sitting at his desk looking through a sketchbook with a red face.
M-Mutsumi-chan, is something wrong?
Kei-kun, Mutsumi said, I didnt realise that you were such a skilled artist.
Wait, thats I can explain, the bespectacled youth insisted. He closed the door behind him.
Youre good enough to be a professional, Kei-kun, the busty girl said as Keitaro sat at his table.
Thats for my job, Mutsumi-chan. Ive been helping out with a series of illustrated novels.
Mutsumi nodded. Who is Ivor Biggun? Its his signature on the drawings.
Keitaro took a deep breath. Mutsumi-chan, promise me youll keep this a secret, ok?
I promise, Kei-kun.
Mutsumi-chan, Ive been writing a series of illustrated novels under the pen name Ivor Biggun for the Saishoudoujin Publishing Company.
But some of these drawings are the brunettes blush was enough for Keitaro to understand the incomplete sentence.
Yes, I know. Ive been drawing naughty pictures for the naughty stories Ive been writing, Keitaro admitted. The moneys good, but I cant let the others know about it.
A small part of Keitaro had known all along that he wouldnt have been able to keep his part-time job a secret forever, but the six months had flown by.
Kei-kun, Mutsumi interrupted her friends thoughts. I would you mind I mean, if its possible could you you know, draw a picture of me?
The artist considered that request, and while there was a significant part of him that wanted to see Mutsumi naked, or at least in her underwear, he did recall that there were others at home and he could be interrupted at any moment.
Itd be a pleasure to draw you, Mutsumi-chan.
The Okinawan smiled and removed her sweater. She was about to undo the buttons on her shirt underneath but was stopped by Keitaro.
Wait, Mutsumi-chan, what if someone comes in? Theyll get the wrong idea
Mutsumi nodded, having had seen the sort of misunderstanding that Keitaro was referring to on several occasions.
Hold that pose, Keitaro instructed as he flipped through the sketchpad until he reached a blank page.
After reaching for his pencils, the artist started to work his magic, turning what seemed like harsh, random marks of graphite into a realistic depiction of Mutsumi Otohimes face and shoulders.
The whole process took five and a half minutes.
There you go, Mutsumi-chan, Keitaro smiled as he removed the sheet from the pad.
Thank you, Kei-kun, Mutsumi smiled as she looked at the picture Keitaro had made for her.
I nearly forgot. The artist gestured for the portrait to be handed back to him. To Mutsumi Otohime, all the best, your friend, Ivor Biggun. There you go, that should be worth something one day.
You didnt need to do that, Kei-kun.
Probably not, Keitaro shrugged, but I wanted to do it for you.
I mean, you should have signed it with your name, Mutsumi clarified. Theres nothing wrong with being who you are, Kei-kun.
The artist smiled. Yeah, but Id rather that everyone doesnt know who I am, Mutsumi-chan. You know what it was like when I first moved in here
But you should be proud of your skill, Kei-kun, you shouldnt have to hide behind a fake name.
Keitaro shook his head and handed a book to his friend. Mutsumi-chan, here is something that I wrote a few months ago.
Miko-Miko Revolution, an illustrated novel by Ivor Biggun, the voluptuous girl read aloud. She turned it over to look at the blurb on the rear cover. Minako Kageyama is a shrine maiden living comfortably, if alone, at the Temple of Swords when a mysterious wandering ronin arrives to discuss business with the famous demon hunters of Jinneiryu Clan. Soon Minakos life is turned upside down and she must train in ways she never thought possible in order for her clan to survive. Oh my.
Yeah, the artist laughed nervously. So you can see why Id like to keep this a secret.
Ok, Kei-kun, Ill keep this a secret on one condition.
Whats that, Mutsumi-chan?
That you write a story for me, Mutsumi blushed. Something just for me.
I-is there any genre in particular youd like, Mutsumi-chan? Keitaro asked, reaching for his sketchpad and flipping to blank page. I mean, would you like something set in the Warring States period? Or perhaps youd like something in modern times?
Just something with a happy ending, Kei-kun.
The artist took a deep breath and gave his subject a close examination, looking for details that could inspire him. He noticed that his scrutiny was causing Mutsumi to blush. Hmm, its in danger of sounding pretentious, but I dont see why I cant try it
Keitaro started sketching the outline for his idea. He looked up. What sort of story did you want, Mutsumi-chan? I mean, did you want a fully illustrated light novel or just something with words?
I I dont mind, whatever you think is best, Kei-kun.
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A short while later, Mutsumi blushed as she read the short story Keitaro had written for her.
I Its
Keitaro looked over it. Yeah, its not great, Im sorry, Ill try something else for you, Mutsumi-chan.
No, thats not what I meant, Kei-kun, the brunette insisted. I meant that I didnt expect you to know what sort of thing You know, the sort of thing I think I might like to do with the man I love.
Its perfect and Ill treasure it forever.
Keitaro blinked in surprise at the sincerity of Mutsumis words but shrugged. I dont feel its my best work, but if it makes you happy, Mutsumi-chan, than thats enough for me.
How did you know what sort of thing that I might like? the Okinawan asked, her cheeks colouring. Ive never told anyone about wanting to you know
Im not sure, Mutsumi-chan, the artist shrugged. I cant always, but sometimes I can just tell what sort of thing a girl likes when it comes to doing naughty stuff. I guess I could tell with you because youre an open and honest person.
Do you think you could know about what Naru the others like?
Narus too conflicted for me to get a proper reading, but I think that she wants someone decisive and take charge, Keitaro replied reflexively.
Mutsumi blinked. H-how long have you known this?
Soon after I started working here, the artist answered. Would you like me to tell you about the others?
Mutsumi nodded.
Motoko she wants someone manly, someone strong that she can rely on, but also someone kind and caring. Kitsune is more adventurous, but shes not nearly as experienced as the others think. Su likes the idea of hunting down her prey; she might also want to try food play. You know, whipped cream, bananas, that sort of thing.
And Shinobu is desperate to be seen as mature, possibly because of her young age and would probably go along with so-called traditional techniques and methods. You know, missionary position with the lights out and under the sheets, Keitaro said, finishing his appraisal of his tenants.
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Naru, Motoko and Kitsune had grown anxious waiting for Mutsumi to return with what shed found out and crept towards Keitaros room to listen in for any details.
What they heard was unexpected and it stirred up conflicting feelings in the girls.
Motoko felt that Keitaro seemed to know something incredibly personal about each of his tenants, something that could only have been gleaned from their personal journals. And she knew for certain that Keitaro had never read her diary.
Naru frowned as she mulled over the word conflicted in her head. Am I conflicted? I mean, sure if Keitaro was more decisive about what he wanted, then maybe Id like him. But hes so wishy-washy
Just how does he know about those sorts of personal details? Kitsune wondered. She didnt keep a diary in case someone found out about her sexual fantasies and thought she was a slut.
The trio of eavesdroppers overheard Keitaro ask Mutsumi if she wanted something to drink and started to panic, each of them hindering the other two and preventing themselves from getting out of the way.
When the door opened, they fell over in a heap.
What are you lot doing outside my room like that? Keitaro asked. He looked further and saw that Motokos head seemed to be pressed between Naru and Kitsunes breasts, while Narus hand had lifted up her own skirt.
Hehehe Kitsune chuckled nervously. We can explain.
It doesnt matter, but you might want to let Naru-chan sort her skirt out. The last time I saw her panties like that, she tried to punch me to Hokkaido.
The brunette blushed furiously and struggled to right her appearance.
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In the kitchen, Keitaro found himself under intense scrutiny from the older residents.
Well, Keitaro, are you going to tell us exactly what your job is? Kitsune asked. It wasnt that big of a deal for her to know what Keitaro did, but she knew that her friends would still have some difficulty in asking the right questions.
Are you sure you want to know? Keitaro countered. Its good, honest money thats allowed you to have an extension for your rent.
Ah, about that
Dont worry, Im not going to come after you for the money, the artist smiled reassuringly.
The ash-blonde laughed nervously in response. Thanks But there is something that we want to know.
Keitaro sipped his drink. Ok, what is it you want to know, Kitsune?
We heard what you said to Mutsumi-sempai, Motoko said, her cheeks colouring.
Naru nodded. H-how did you learn about?
About what?
What we want to know is how did you find out about our so-called likes when it comes to men, Keitaro, Kitsune asked.
Well, Keitaro scratched the back of his head. It comes from watching people.
I knew you were a pervert, but to Narus accusation was cut off by Kitsune.
Naru if you send Keitaro flying, we wont find out about his job.
But
When I said watching people, I mean watching from a caf? and the like. You know, looking at their body language, seeing how they react to the things they see, the former ronin clarified. I dont mean drilling holes in walls and staring at them when theyre changing.
No, you just have the unfortunate habit of walking in on them, Kitsune teased. So youve managed to get a handle on our tastes in men. Or so you think
Your private life is your own, Kitsune, Keitaro shrugged. As long as youre not hurting anyone or breaking any rules, I dont really care what you do in your room.
So you dont mind if one of us brings home a guy? the ash-blonde asked.
I do, but only because its against the rules, the young man answered. After taking another sip of his drink, he added, Its a dormitory, not a love hotel.
So what were you working on that you needed to send to the post office so urgently, Keitaro? Naru asked.
Its my latest work; an illustrated short story.
Whats it called? Kitsune asked. And whats it going to be published in?
I Keitaro realised that if he wasnt careful, things were going to get out of hand. Id rather not say, it was a working title, after all.
Oh, but wheres it going to be published in? So we can be on the lookout for it.
I used a pseudonym.
Youre not going to make us buy a load of different magazines just to keep this a secret, are you, Keitaro? Thats so mean Kitsune teased.
Its a specialist publication, Kitsune; its only available via subscription, Keitaro said, looking increasingly unsettled. And I think that you have to pay for a non-refundable subscription up front.
Oh the ash-blonde replied. Never mind then.
But just as Kitsune made a mental note to dig deeper for more information about Keitaros work, Motoko realised something.
Keitaro, what is the name you write under? the kendoist asked. Just in case we find your work reprinted in another publication.
I Crap, the artist thought. If you must know, its Biggun.
Biggun? Why does that sound so familiar? Naru pondered. Well, Ive still got some studying to do. Ill see you at dinner time.
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Sitting at the desk in her room, Naru was trying to focus on her studies. Unfortunately, she was being distracted by Keitaros revelation.
After three quarters of an hour of not getting anywhere with her work, the auburn haired girl finally decided to find out why something about Keitaros work seemed so familiar. She got up from her desk and locked the door to her room.
Sure, there was that troublesome hole in the floor, but at least this way, people werent going barge into her room while she searched her private archive.
The archive itself was a black box that was kept in the bottom of the closet.
Not brought this out for a while, Naru thought as she carried it over to her desk. She opened the box and placed the lid to one side. Reaching inside, she pulled out the nearest item: an illustrated light novel.
There was a good reason why this book, and the others in the box, had been kept secret from everyone at the Inn. The nature of its contents were more along the lines of something a single male might have, rather than a studious good girl like her.
Yes, Naru Narusegawa had a cache of erotic publications. Some were romantic manga, though none were shoujo-ai. There was one that had some shounen-ai content, but that was because the story in it was a love triangle.
Naru had read a yaoi doujin once before, but the characters involved hadnt shown any inclination for homosexuality. The characters in question were attractive, at least in the original series, but the situation that had brought them to the point where they were having sex with each other was far too contrived for her liking.
Besides that, the art had been questionable; unlike the artwork in this novella that she pulled out next.
Tales of Ribaldry was an anthology series written under the name Red Dragon. Naru didnt have many of the volumes of the series, as different volumes explored different themes.
The volume she had in her hands focused on the sort of life she fantasised about having with Seta when she was younger: a blend of swashbuckling adventure and steamy romance in exotic locations.
Looking down, the auburn-haired girl noticed a familiar looking name.
Keitaro said his name was Biggun hes not Ivor Biggun, is he?
Flicking through the book in her hands, Naru scanned for the smallest hint that some of the artwork contained inside looked anything like Keitaros drawings.
It was near the end of the book, in the last story where she saw the familiar art style.
Her cheeks turned scarlet as she looked at the detail on the illustration. A woman with short hair, in a similarly style to that of Haruka, was being carried out of a river, her shirt was open but clinging to her every curves, and her trousers were torn in strategic places that showed off what sort of underwear she had on.
It was quite arousing, given that the man who was carrying her had a broad, heavily muscled chest and matinee idol looks.
Keitaro did draw this
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To be continued?
You may notice some subtle changes in this one...
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Art Attack
By Lord Raa
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Disclaim-me-do: The famous man looked at the red cup.
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Keitaro let out a long yawn as he lifted his glasses off his face and rubbed his eyes. He glanced at his watch and blinked repeatedly.
Its nearly dinner time already? I guess that Id better get washed up, he thought with a smile.
As the former ronin stood up, he decided that a trip to the toilet was the most important thing in his life and quickly left his room, momentarily forgetting that he had left out his sketchpad.
During dinner, he received several demanding looks as the phone started to ring. Sighing, he stood up and answered it.
Hinata Sou, Keitaro speaking, how can I help you?
?Im sorry to bother you, but Im trying to reach Keitaro Urashima.?
Im Keitaro Urashima, how can I help you? Keitaro responded cheerfully.
?Im Takeshi Kawashima, from Saishoudoujin Publishing Company,? the voice explained.
Oh yeah, Ive done some freelance artwork for you in the past. What can I do for you today?
?Im terribly sorry to impose on you right now, Urashima-sensei, but were rather desperate for some new work. Ideally, wed like you to write some new stories and illustrate them,? Kawashima explained.
Im cant commit to a lengthy series, Kawashima-san. Im currently studying archaeology at Toudai, Keitaro replied with a sigh.
Keitaros grades had suffered on several occasions during his later years in high school and cram school, thanks to his obligations for Saishoudoujin. It was not something that he was desperate to repeat.
?I can appreciate that, Urashima-sensei. But we have some holes in our production schedule and we need to fill them.?
I cant promise anything with regards to time scales, but I dont mind drawing anthology work, Kawashima-san. And I have to be careful I dont want the people around me to know what Im doing. They wouldnt approve, Keitaro smiled, turning to face the kitchen.
?I understand, Urashima-sensei. If its alright with you, Ill send a representative out to you tomorrow morning. Youll be able to discuss the contract and the work.?
Thank you, Kawashima-san.
Returning to the dining table, Keitaro prepared himself for the questioning looks from his tenants.
So, who was that, Keitaro? Kitsune asked, casting a questioning look at her landlord.
It was a job offer, Kitsune.
J-job offer? D-does that m-mean youre l-l-leaving us? Shinobu asked, tears welling in her eyes.
Keitaro smiled reassuringly. No it does not, Shinobu-chan. It was a job offer for some additional work that I can do here at the Inn. If I do take the job, it does mean that Ill need plenty of peace and quiet. Which means my room is now off-limits to everyone unless Im in there with them.
Now youve got our interest, Keitaro, Kitsune smiled. What are you going to be doing?
Id rather not say, but its nothing that will bother any of you, provided you leave me alone, the former ronin said evasively. I might not even take the job it all depends on the pay and if I can fit it in with my studies.
Motoko, having remained silent throughout the exchange, cast a sceptical glance at Keitaro. She tried to see if she could gain any clues about what he was planning, but recalled her mothers oft repeated insistence that she allowed him his privacy.
Even if he had accidentally walked into the bath when the kendoist was changing that very morning.
Naru was also silent, but her thoughts were occupied by what shed seen in Keitaros room just before dinner.
The brunette had poked her head into Keitaros room to remind him that dinner was nearly ready and shed caught a glimpse of his sketchpad.
Just where have I seen that art style before? she pondered.
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Keitaro greeted his guest politely and poured her a cup of tea.
Thank you, Urashima-sensei, Karin Sato smiled politely.
Karin Sato was wearing a charcoal grey jacket and skirt over a plain white blouse. She was a brunette with shoulder-length hair pulled back into a ponytail.
Please, just call me Keitaro-san, the bespectacled man insisted, his eyes darting around the room nervously. I dont want anyone to find out what Ive been doing.
But you always used a pseudonym, Ura- Keitaro-san, the visitor countered, correcting herself.
Yes, but still, I dont want the people who live here to think Im a pervert. There was a pause as he recalled the light most of his tenants saw him in. Well, an even bigger pervert.
Karin raised an eyebrow, but shrugged it off. She knew how strange creative types could be, having negotiated several deals with artists and writers before. And Keitaro Urashimas modesty was far from the worst thing shed encountered.
At least hes wearing clothes, she mused. Very well, Keitaro-san. We were looking for you to write and/or draw a few anthology chapters for us.
Whats the theme of the magazine? the artist asked, sipping his tea.
Its general adult content, Keitaro-san. Its in Ero-Ero Monthly.
Keitaros face took on a sour look. Ero-Ero Monthly?
Is there a problem with Ero-Ero Monthly? Karin asked, her eyes narrowing. You cant argue with sales figures.
Miss Sato, I think youre confusing popularity with quality. I appreciate that you must balance commercial interests with that of artistic merit.
Keitaro set his cup down. But let me be perfectly clear: I will not draw for the stories written in Ero-Ero Monthly.
Oh, thank you for your time, Urashima-san, Karin bowed politely. She got up to leave.
I said that I will not draw for Ero-Ero Monthly, not that I would not work for Saishoudoujin, the artist said, freezing the brunette in mid step. I was struck by inspiration and Ive got a few ideas for some short stories.
Oh, I apologise unreservedly, Urashima-sensei, the visitor bowed respectfully. She took up her seat and sat ready to hear what Keitaro had to say to her.
Theyre going to be illustrated novels, rather than just ero manga.
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Later, at Saishoudoujin offices, Takeshi Kawashima was impressed with how well his co-workers plan had worked.
Hes a skilled artist, so I would have been happy to have him draw the covers, he admitted. But to get some exclusive illustrated novels Im impressed Kenichi.
When it comes to artistic types, you just need to know how to handle them, Kenichi Honda smiled. I knew Urashima would never go for just being an artist on Ero-Ero Monthly, no matter what you offered him. Hes got too much pride in his work for that.
So by making an offer he sees as insulting, he counters with the chance to prove his artistic worth. Being an agent is all about handling egos, Takeshi, and if youre willing to keep your eyes and ears open, youll learn a lot from me.
I humbly await your wisdom, Sensei, Kawashima bowed theatrically.
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Six months later, Keitaro was sorting through the mail. He smiled to himself when he saw the envelope addressed to him from Saishoudoujin. Slipping it into his pocket he continued sorting through the rest of the days deliveries.
Turning around, he saw that Kitsune, Motoko and Naru were standing two metres from him.
Here you go, Keitaro smiled, handing the letters to the appropriate recipient. Is there something else?
Err Naru faltered. She nudged Motoko to take over.
Well, there is the kendoist also found it difficult to talk about what was bothering her friends.
Kitsune sighed. She rolled her eyes and finally mentioned why they were standing in front of their landlord. Keitaro, youve been a little distant lately, and were worried about you.
Ive been working at my other job, Kitsune, Keitaro replied with a shrug. Its been a bit hectic, but you know what its like when youre working to a deadline.
The ash-blonde rubbed the back of her head nervously, recalling that she hadnt written anything for a while.
Im sorry for being distant, but if youd all like to go out, Id be willing to treat you.
Kitsunes attitude changed completely. Are you really going to pay for us all to have steak tonight?
If it will make my friends happy, then Ill make reservations at le H?raut Culinaire, Keitaro smiled.
Where did you get that kind of money? the voluptuous tenant asked. Just what have you been doing for the last few months?
Its nothing illegal, Kitsune, the young man sighed. He paused to consider how much he should reveal to his friends. If you really must know, Ive been doing some writing.
Hey, thats my gig! How would you like it if I muscled in on your turf and started to manage a dormitory?
Its a different kind of writing, Kitsune, Keitaro insisted, holding his hands up in an attempt to placate her. Besides, Ive been doing some drawing as well.
That quietened down the tenants and they turned their attention to their personal mail.
Ah, Keitaro Kitsune said, suddenly fluttering her eyelashes at her landlord. I dont suppose I could have an extension on my rent?
Naru and Motoko face-palmed at their friends shameless behaviour.
P-l-e-a-s-e? the sake-loving girl asked, having appeared at Keitaros side. She started to trace circles on Keitaros right arm.
Keitaro closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He was struck by a flash of inspiration. Kitsune-chan, how much time do you need?
About two weeks she trailed off, well aware that she was taking a major liberty. She was already several weeks behind as it was.
Mitsune-sempai, I Motoko was interrupted by Keitaro.
Ok, Kitsune-chan, but that does mean we cant go to a fancy restaurant: itll have to be karaoke and a beef bowl instead, the landlord said in a serious tone.
Thats fine, the ash-blonde beamed as she led her friends away.
Keitaro quickly made his way to his room to work on his latest idea.
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It was obvious during the evenings karaoke that Keitaro was distracted by something.
Whats wrong with Sempai? Shinobu asked when her crush had left to use the toilet. He keeps getting the lyrics wrong and missing the cues.
Im not sure; do _you_ have any ideas, Mitsune-sempai? Motoko asked, turning to her short-haired friend.
Real subtle there, Motoko-chan. I asked Keitaro for an extension on my rent, Kitsune insisted. He was fine with it so its no big deal.
But what if the chef trailed off, concerned for her friends.
As much as it pains me to say this, Shinobu-chan, Naru sighed, All Kitsune needs to do to distract Keitaro is engineer a situation where she forgets to put the sign out and let Keitaro walk in on her.
That only happened the ash-blonde trailed off to count on her fingers, Four, no five times in the last two months.
I think youre proving the point perfectly, Mitsune-sempai, Motoko sighed. But you should be more responsible with your money.
Im getting better, Kitsune insisted. Its not like Ive gotten so irresponsible Ive got to offer my body to Keitaro to keep him from kicking me out.
She smiled at everyones blush until she looked up and saw Keitaro standing in the doorway. Ah.
The former ronin was standing with his arms folded. Indeed.
There was an uncomfortable silence as Keitaro walked to the table and finished his drink. Well, I think its time to call it an evening. Weve eaten, weve had some fun and weve learned something. All in all, a success, wouldnt you agree?
Yeah, lets all go home, Naru nodded. She stood up and slipped on her jacket.
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A few days later, Keitaro smiled as he slipped on his shoes.
Whats up with you? Naru asked.
Ive completed my latest piece, Naru-chan. Ahead of schedule, too.
The brunette nodded, but had a troubled look on her face. Keitaro
Whats up, Naru-chan? the writer asked, looking up as he finished tying his shoelaces. He rose to his full height. If theres something that I can help you with, please tell me.
Well, its
Do you need some extra time to get the rent money? Keitaro asked with a look of concern on his face. It wouldnt be fair if I said no to you after I gave Kitsune-chan two weeks, would it?
Well Naru trailed off. Damn it, thats not it all, but how do I tell him this now?
Ive got to get to post office, but if you need two weeks, youve got it. Ill be back later, ok?
Ok, Keitaro.
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Kitsune lounged on the sofa in front of the TV, much to Motokos annoyance.
Do you have any idea what that posture is doing to your back?
Naru shook her head, having long since learned to accept the fact that her sake-loving friend wasnt going to change her ways any time soon. She turned her attention to the ringing doorbell.
She rose to her feet and answered the door. Hello, Mutsumi-chan.
Hello, Naru-chan. Is Kei-kun in? the Okinawan asked with a gentle smile.
Hes at the post office right now, but he should be back before too long if youd like to wait for him.
Is it alright if I wait in his room? Mutsumi asked. I wanted to talk to him about some coursework.
Well Naru trailed off when she realised that she had a chance to find out what Keitaro was doing for his money. I dont see why not, Mutsumi-chan.
As she was led into Keitaros room, Mutsumi was surprised at her friends request.
You want me to go through Kei-kuns things? she asked, clearly shocked to be asked such a thing.
Its not like that, Mutsumi-chan, the brunette insisted. Its just Keitaro got a job, and he wont tell us all the details. Were just worried that someones going to get hurt, thats all.
But why cant you search through his things? Mutsumi asked, chiding her friend.
We all kinda promised not to, Naru trailed off.
The Okinawan sighed in disapproval. That doesnt mean I should be going through his things, Naru-chan.
I know, but
Mutsumi was torn between respecting one friends privacy and ensuring the safety of another. She hesitated until she could come up with a suitable reason not to.
Eventually, it was Naru that found the solution.
You only have to tell us if Keitaros doing something illegal or anything that might be dangerous, otherwise you can keep his secret.
Ok, Naru-chan.
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Twenty minutes later, the front door opened.
Im back, Keitaro announced with his usual cheerful voice. He walked into the lounge to see Kitsune watching TV.
Welcome back, Keitaro, the ash-blonde greeted, turning her upper body. So, whats up at the post office?
It turns out that the queues move just as slowly on a Thursday as they do on a Monday, the writer smiled. Did I miss anything here?
Mutsumi-chan is waiting for you in your room, the reclining girl answered.
Oh, ok, Keitaro nodded, he quickly made his way to his room, hoping that curiosity hadnt gotten the better of Mutsumi.
Nearly taking his door of its hinges, he was greeted by the sight of one of his friends sitting at his desk looking through a sketchbook with a red face.
M-Mutsumi-chan, is something wrong?
Kei-kun, Mutsumi said, I didnt realise that you were such a skilled artist.
Wait, thats I can explain, the bespectacled youth insisted. He closed the door behind him.
Youre good enough to be a professional, Kei-kun, the busty girl said as Keitaro sat at his table.
Thats for my job, Mutsumi-chan. Ive been helping out with a series of illustrated novels.
Mutsumi nodded. Who is Ivor Biggun? Its his signature on the drawings.
Keitaro took a deep breath. Mutsumi-chan, promise me youll keep this a secret, ok?
I promise, Kei-kun.
Mutsumi-chan, Ive been writing a series of illustrated novels under the pen name Ivor Biggun for the Saishoudoujin Publishing Company.
But some of these drawings are the brunettes blush was enough for Keitaro to understand the incomplete sentence.
Yes, I know. Ive been drawing naughty pictures for the naughty stories Ive been writing, Keitaro admitted. The moneys good, but I cant let the others know about it.
A small part of Keitaro had known all along that he wouldnt have been able to keep his part-time job a secret forever, but the six months had flown by.
Kei-kun, Mutsumi interrupted her friends thoughts. I would you mind I mean, if its possible could you you know, draw a picture of me?
The artist considered that request, and while there was a significant part of him that wanted to see Mutsumi naked, or at least in her underwear, he did recall that there were others at home and he could be interrupted at any moment.
Itd be a pleasure to draw you, Mutsumi-chan.
The Okinawan smiled and removed her sweater. She was about to undo the buttons on her shirt underneath but was stopped by Keitaro.
Wait, Mutsumi-chan, what if someone comes in? Theyll get the wrong idea
Mutsumi nodded, having had seen the sort of misunderstanding that Keitaro was referring to on several occasions.
Hold that pose, Keitaro instructed as he flipped through the sketchpad until he reached a blank page.
After reaching for his pencils, the artist started to work his magic, turning what seemed like harsh, random marks of graphite into a realistic depiction of Mutsumi Otohimes face and shoulders.
The whole process took five and a half minutes.
There you go, Mutsumi-chan, Keitaro smiled as he removed the sheet from the pad.
Thank you, Kei-kun, Mutsumi smiled as she looked at the picture Keitaro had made for her.
I nearly forgot. The artist gestured for the portrait to be handed back to him. To Mutsumi Otohime, all the best, your friend, Ivor Biggun. There you go, that should be worth something one day.
You didnt need to do that, Kei-kun.
Probably not, Keitaro shrugged, but I wanted to do it for you.
I mean, you should have signed it with your name, Mutsumi clarified. Theres nothing wrong with being who you are, Kei-kun.
The artist smiled. Yeah, but Id rather that everyone doesnt know who I am, Mutsumi-chan. You know what it was like when I first moved in here
But you should be proud of your skill, Kei-kun, you shouldnt have to hide behind a fake name.
Keitaro shook his head and handed a book to his friend. Mutsumi-chan, here is something that I wrote a few months ago.
Miko-Miko Revolution, an illustrated novel by Ivor Biggun, the voluptuous girl read aloud. She turned it over to look at the blurb on the rear cover. Minako Kageyama is a shrine maiden living comfortably, if alone, at the Temple of Swords when a mysterious wandering ronin arrives to discuss business with the famous demon hunters of Jinneiryu Clan. Soon Minakos life is turned upside down and she must train in ways she never thought possible in order for her clan to survive. Oh my.
Yeah, the artist laughed nervously. So you can see why Id like to keep this a secret.
Ok, Kei-kun, Ill keep this a secret on one condition.
Whats that, Mutsumi-chan?
That you write a story for me, Mutsumi blushed. Something just for me.
I-is there any genre in particular youd like, Mutsumi-chan? Keitaro asked, reaching for his sketchpad and flipping to blank page. I mean, would you like something set in the Warring States period? Or perhaps youd like something in modern times?
Just something with a happy ending, Kei-kun.
The artist took a deep breath and gave his subject a close examination, looking for details that could inspire him. He noticed that his scrutiny was causing Mutsumi to blush. Hmm, its in danger of sounding pretentious, but I dont see why I cant try it
Keitaro started sketching the outline for his idea. He looked up. What sort of story did you want, Mutsumi-chan? I mean, did you want a fully illustrated light novel or just something with words?
I I dont mind, whatever you think is best, Kei-kun.
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A short while later, Mutsumi blushed as she read the short story Keitaro had written for her.
I Its
Keitaro looked over it. Yeah, its not great, Im sorry, Ill try something else for you, Mutsumi-chan.
No, thats not what I meant, Kei-kun, the brunette insisted. I meant that I didnt expect you to know what sort of thing You know, the sort of thing I think I might like to do with the man I love.
Its perfect and Ill treasure it forever.
Keitaro blinked in surprise at the sincerity of Mutsumis words but shrugged. I dont feel its my best work, but if it makes you happy, Mutsumi-chan, than thats enough for me.
How did you know what sort of thing that I might like? the Okinawan asked, her cheeks colouring. Ive never told anyone about wanting to you know
Im not sure, Mutsumi-chan, the artist shrugged. I cant always, but sometimes I can just tell what sort of thing a girl likes when it comes to doing naughty stuff. I guess I could tell with you because youre an open and honest person.
Do you think you could know about what Naru the others like?
Narus too conflicted for me to get a proper reading, but I think that she wants someone decisive and take charge, Keitaro replied reflexively.
Mutsumi blinked. H-how long have you known this?
Soon after I started working here, the artist answered. Would you like me to tell you about the others?
Mutsumi nodded.
Motoko she wants someone manly, someone strong that she can rely on, but also someone kind and caring. Kitsune is more adventurous, but shes not nearly as experienced as the others think. Su likes the idea of hunting down her prey; she might also want to try food play. You know, whipped cream, bananas, that sort of thing.
And Shinobu is desperate to be seen as mature, possibly because of her young age and would probably go along with so-called traditional techniques and methods. You know, missionary position with the lights out and under the sheets, Keitaro said, finishing his appraisal of his tenants.
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Naru, Motoko and Kitsune had grown anxious waiting for Mutsumi to return with what shed found out and crept towards Keitaros room to listen in for any details.
What they heard was unexpected and it stirred up conflicting feelings in the girls.
Motoko felt that Keitaro seemed to know something incredibly personal about each of his tenants, something that could only have been gleaned from their personal journals. And she knew for certain that Keitaro had never read her diary.
Naru frowned as she mulled over the word conflicted in her head. Am I conflicted? I mean, sure if Keitaro was more decisive about what he wanted, then maybe Id like him. But hes so wishy-washy
Just how does he know about those sorts of personal details? Kitsune wondered. She didnt keep a diary in case someone found out about her sexual fantasies and thought she was a slut.
The trio of eavesdroppers overheard Keitaro ask Mutsumi if she wanted something to drink and started to panic, each of them hindering the other two and preventing themselves from getting out of the way.
When the door opened, they fell over in a heap.
What are you lot doing outside my room like that? Keitaro asked. He looked further and saw that Motokos head seemed to be pressed between Naru and Kitsunes breasts, while Narus hand had lifted up her own skirt.
Hehehe Kitsune chuckled nervously. We can explain.
It doesnt matter, but you might want to let Naru-chan sort her skirt out. The last time I saw her panties like that, she tried to punch me to Hokkaido.
The brunette blushed furiously and struggled to right her appearance.
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In the kitchen, Keitaro found himself under intense scrutiny from the older residents.
Well, Keitaro, are you going to tell us exactly what your job is? Kitsune asked. It wasnt that big of a deal for her to know what Keitaro did, but she knew that her friends would still have some difficulty in asking the right questions.
Are you sure you want to know? Keitaro countered. Its good, honest money thats allowed you to have an extension for your rent.
Ah, about that
Dont worry, Im not going to come after you for the money, the artist smiled reassuringly.
The ash-blonde laughed nervously in response. Thanks But there is something that we want to know.
Keitaro sipped his drink. Ok, what is it you want to know, Kitsune?
We heard what you said to Mutsumi-sempai, Motoko said, her cheeks colouring.
Naru nodded. H-how did you learn about?
About what?
What we want to know is how did you find out about our so-called likes when it comes to men, Keitaro, Kitsune asked.
Well, Keitaro scratched the back of his head. It comes from watching people.
I knew you were a pervert, but to Narus accusation was cut off by Kitsune.
Naru if you send Keitaro flying, we wont find out about his job.
But
When I said watching people, I mean watching from a caf? and the like. You know, looking at their body language, seeing how they react to the things they see, the former ronin clarified. I dont mean drilling holes in walls and staring at them when theyre changing.
No, you just have the unfortunate habit of walking in on them, Kitsune teased. So youve managed to get a handle on our tastes in men. Or so you think
Your private life is your own, Kitsune, Keitaro shrugged. As long as youre not hurting anyone or breaking any rules, I dont really care what you do in your room.
So you dont mind if one of us brings home a guy? the ash-blonde asked.
I do, but only because its against the rules, the young man answered. After taking another sip of his drink, he added, Its a dormitory, not a love hotel.
So what were you working on that you needed to send to the post office so urgently, Keitaro? Naru asked.
Its my latest work; an illustrated short story.
Whats it called? Kitsune asked. And whats it going to be published in?
I Keitaro realised that if he wasnt careful, things were going to get out of hand. Id rather not say, it was a working title, after all.
Oh, but wheres it going to be published in? So we can be on the lookout for it.
I used a pseudonym.
Youre not going to make us buy a load of different magazines just to keep this a secret, are you, Keitaro? Thats so mean Kitsune teased.
Its a specialist publication, Kitsune; its only available via subscription, Keitaro said, looking increasingly unsettled. And I think that you have to pay for a non-refundable subscription up front.
Oh the ash-blonde replied. Never mind then.
But just as Kitsune made a mental note to dig deeper for more information about Keitaros work, Motoko realised something.
Keitaro, what is the name you write under? the kendoist asked. Just in case we find your work reprinted in another publication.
I Crap, the artist thought. If you must know, its Biggun.
Biggun? Why does that sound so familiar? Naru pondered. Well, Ive still got some studying to do. Ill see you at dinner time.
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Sitting at the desk in her room, Naru was trying to focus on her studies. Unfortunately, she was being distracted by Keitaros revelation.
After three quarters of an hour of not getting anywhere with her work, the auburn haired girl finally decided to find out why something about Keitaros work seemed so familiar. She got up from her desk and locked the door to her room.
Sure, there was that troublesome hole in the floor, but at least this way, people werent going barge into her room while she searched her private archive.
The archive itself was a black box that was kept in the bottom of the closet.
Not brought this out for a while, Naru thought as she carried it over to her desk. She opened the box and placed the lid to one side. Reaching inside, she pulled out the nearest item: an illustrated light novel.
There was a good reason why this book, and the others in the box, had been kept secret from everyone at the Inn. The nature of its contents were more along the lines of something a single male might have, rather than a studious good girl like her.
Yes, Naru Narusegawa had a cache of erotic publications. Some were romantic manga, though none were shoujo-ai. There was one that had some shounen-ai content, but that was because the story in it was a love triangle.
Naru had read a yaoi doujin once before, but the characters involved hadnt shown any inclination for homosexuality. The characters in question were attractive, at least in the original series, but the situation that had brought them to the point where they were having sex with each other was far too contrived for her liking.
Besides that, the art had been questionable; unlike the artwork in this novella that she pulled out next.
Tales of Ribaldry was an anthology series written under the name Red Dragon. Naru didnt have many of the volumes of the series, as different volumes explored different themes.
The volume she had in her hands focused on the sort of life she fantasised about having with Seta when she was younger: a blend of swashbuckling adventure and steamy romance in exotic locations.
Looking down, the auburn-haired girl noticed a familiar looking name.
Keitaro said his name was Biggun hes not Ivor Biggun, is he?
Flicking through the book in her hands, Naru scanned for the smallest hint that some of the artwork contained inside looked anything like Keitaros drawings.
It was near the end of the book, in the last story where she saw the familiar art style.
Her cheeks turned scarlet as she looked at the detail on the illustration. A woman with short hair, in a similarly style to that of Haruka, was being carried out of a river, her shirt was open but clinging to her every curves, and her trousers were torn in strategic places that showed off what sort of underwear she had on.
It was quite arousing, given that the man who was carrying her had a broad, heavily muscled chest and matinee idol looks.
Keitaro did draw this
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To be continued?
Art Attack
Art Attack
By Lord Raa
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Disclaim-me-do: Unless youÆre eating a bowl of muesli, you shouldnÆt be mixing the grape and the grain.
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Chapter 2
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Naru was conflicted. On the one hand, she had to tell her friends what Keitaro was doing, but they would want to know where she got her proof from.
And she couldnÆt just reveal that she had a collection of erotic literature, even if it was many times smaller than she suspected KeitaroÆs to be.
Not only that, it wasnÆt right for her to reveal KeitaroÆs secrets. Ignoring the uproar that would ensue, Haruka would be unhappy.
Haruka Urashima could be a scary woman if she wanted to be. There were stories about how she had fought off perverts on subway on the way home from a night out with Kitsune.
Of course, KitsuneÆs account had seemed wildly exaggerated, in that included the use of firearms, but Haruka hadnÆt confirmed or denied that she carried a gun when she went out for an evening.
Deciding that she shouldnÆt write off the option of showing her friends, Naru decided to pack up the rest of her illicit materials and hid the anthology that contained KeitaroÆs work under her mattress before leaving her room for dinner.
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Shinobu knew what she had to ask Keitaro for. ôKeitaro-sempai, Iàö she faltered.
ôIs something wrong, Shinobu-chan?ö the ronin asked.
ôIà I need you to sign a permission slip for me,ö the chef said, blushing heavily. ôT-thereÆs a school trip going to Kobe soon, and I want to go. ItÆs for a history project.ö
ôIÆm going on that trip too!ö Kaolla Suu declared. ôYou have to let Shinobu come with me, Keitaro!ö
ôOf course you can go, Shinobu-chan. IÆll sign the form after dinner.ö
ôWhen is this trip, Shinobu-chan?ö Naru asked.
ôItÆs two weeks on Wednesday,ö the youngest resident answered. ôI meant to ask one of my parents, but I couldnÆt get hold of themàö
ôDonÆt worry about that, Shinobu-chan, you can go,ö Keitaro said with a sincere smile.
ôShinobu-chan, do you think it would be ok if I came with you to Kobe?ö Naru asked. ôI want to go shopping there, but I always felt that I didnÆt really have a good enough reason to go on my ownàö
ôOf course, Naru-sempai!ö Shinobu nodded happily. ôWhat about you, Motoko-sempai? Would you like to come with us? And you Kitsune-sempai?ö
ôIÆd love to come with you, Shinobu-chan, but unfortunately, IÆve got some work to do,ö the ash-blonde replied with an apologetic look on her face.
It was true that Kitsune had to do some work; however, the more pressing reason for her to decline the offer was the poor state of her finances.
If she couldnÆt submit an article soon, things could become awkward with the rent situation.
ôI too would like to come with you, Shinobu-chan,ö Motoko said. ôLet me know what the travel arrangements are and IÆll tag along, if thatÆs alright with you?ö
ôOf course itÆll be fine,ö Shinobu smiled. ôWhat about you, Keitaro-sempai?ö
ôUnfortunately, IÆm in the same boat as Kitsune, IÆm too busy.ö
ôDonÆt worry, Keitaro, IÆll get you a souvenir,ö Kaolla beamed. ôIÆll get you one, too, Kitsune.ö
ôIf you insist on buying me a present, then I couldnÆt possibly turn down the gift of a bottle of sakeàö the short-haired girl said, not overtly demanding a bottle of alcohol, but certainly not being subtle about what she wanted.
It was enough to cause Naru to roll her eyes, though she didnÆt say anything.
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Art Attack
By Lord Raa
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Disclaim-me-do: Unless youÆre eating a bowl of muesli, you shouldnÆt be mixing the grape and the grain.
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Chapter 2
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Naru was conflicted. On the one hand, she had to tell her friends what Keitaro was doing, but they would want to know where she got her proof from.
And she couldnÆt just reveal that she had a collection of erotic literature, even if it was many times smaller than she suspected KeitaroÆs to be.
Not only that, it wasnÆt right for her to reveal KeitaroÆs secrets. Ignoring the uproar that would ensue, Haruka would be unhappy.
Haruka Urashima could be a scary woman if she wanted to be. There were stories about how she had fought off perverts on subway on the way home from a night out with Kitsune.
Of course, KitsuneÆs account had seemed wildly exaggerated, in that included the use of firearms, but Haruka hadnÆt confirmed or denied that she carried a gun when she went out for an evening.
Deciding that she shouldnÆt write off the option of showing her friends, Naru decided to pack up the rest of her illicit materials and hid the anthology that contained KeitaroÆs work under her mattress before leaving her room for dinner.
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Shinobu knew what she had to ask Keitaro for. ôKeitaro-sempai, Iàö she faltered.
ôIs something wrong, Shinobu-chan?ö the ronin asked.
ôIà I need you to sign a permission slip for me,ö the chef said, blushing heavily. ôT-thereÆs a school trip going to Kobe soon, and I want to go. ItÆs for a history project.ö
ôIÆm going on that trip too!ö Kaolla Suu declared. ôYou have to let Shinobu come with me, Keitaro!ö
ôOf course you can go, Shinobu-chan. IÆll sign the form after dinner.ö
ôWhen is this trip, Shinobu-chan?ö Naru asked.
ôItÆs two weeks on Wednesday,ö the youngest resident answered. ôI meant to ask one of my parents, but I couldnÆt get hold of themàö
ôDonÆt worry about that, Shinobu-chan, you can go,ö Keitaro said with a sincere smile.
ôShinobu-chan, do you think it would be ok if I came with you to Kobe?ö Naru asked. ôI want to go shopping there, but I always felt that I didnÆt really have a good enough reason to go on my ownàö
ôOf course, Naru-sempai!ö Shinobu nodded happily. ôWhat about you, Motoko-sempai? Would you like to come with us? And you Kitsune-sempai?ö
ôIÆd love to come with you, Shinobu-chan, but unfortunately, IÆve got some work to do,ö the ash-blonde replied with an apologetic look on her face.
It was true that Kitsune had to do some work; however, the more pressing reason for her to decline the offer was the poor state of her finances.
If she couldnÆt submit an article soon, things could become awkward with the rent situation.
ôI too would like to come with you, Shinobu-chan,ö Motoko said. ôLet me know what the travel arrangements are and IÆll tag along, if thatÆs alright with you?ö
ôOf course itÆll be fine,ö Shinobu smiled. ôWhat about you, Keitaro-sempai?ö
ôUnfortunately, IÆm in the same boat as Kitsune, IÆm too busy.ö
ôDonÆt worry, Keitaro, IÆll get you a souvenir,ö Kaolla beamed. ôIÆll get you one, too, Kitsune.ö
ôIf you insist on buying me a present, then I couldnÆt possibly turn down the gift of a bottle of sakeàö the short-haired girl said, not overtly demanding a bottle of alcohol, but certainly not being subtle about what she wanted.
It was enough to cause Naru to roll her eyes, though she didnÆt say anything.
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Art Attack
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KeitaroÆs evening was not going well.
His homework had already been completed to a satisfactory standard; it was his other work that was causing him trouble.
Despite having the time and the motivation to write something new for his employer, inspiration was stubbornly refusing to come to him.
He wasnÆt sure if it writerÆs block, as he wasnÆt at an impasse with a particular story. It was more the case of him struggling to come up with the story concept itself.
Keitaro looked around his room, hoping to get some inspiration, anything to help spark off a new story.
He let out a sigh and closed his eyes. æI got nothing left. I want to write, I love to write, but writing doesnÆt always love you back. ItÆs like creative writingÆs a tsundere.Æ
ôA tsundere... maybe thatÆs the key?ö the ronin pondered aloud as he started to look at his sketch pad.
He scribbled down a few notes before leaving to use the toilet.
Five minutes later, Keitaro returned in time to caution Naru about sneaking into his room.
ôNaru-chan, is something wrong?ö
ôNo, Ià was just wondering if you wanted a drink,ö the auburn haired girl said nervously.
ôIÆm fine thank you, Naru-chan. IÆm a bit tired, so I think IÆll turn in early tonight. See you tomorrow,ö Keitaro smiled.
ôYes, see you tomorrow.ö
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KeitaroÆs evening was not going well.
His homework had already been completed to a satisfactory standard; it was his other work that was causing him trouble.
Despite having the time and the motivation to write something new for his employer, inspiration was stubbornly refusing to come to him.
He wasnÆt sure if it writerÆs block, as he wasnÆt at an impasse with a particular story. It was more the case of him struggling to come up with the story concept itself.
Keitaro looked around his room, hoping to get some inspiration, anything to help spark off a new story.
He let out a sigh and closed his eyes. æI got nothing left. I want to write, I love to write, but writing doesnÆt always love you back. ItÆs like creative writingÆs a tsundere.Æ
ôA tsundere... maybe thatÆs the key?ö the ronin pondered aloud as he started to look at his sketch pad.
He scribbled down a few notes before leaving to use the toilet.
Five minutes later, Keitaro returned in time to caution Naru about sneaking into his room.
ôNaru-chan, is something wrong?ö
ôNo, Ià was just wondering if you wanted a drink,ö the auburn haired girl said nervously.
ôIÆm fine thank you, Naru-chan. IÆm a bit tired, so I think IÆll turn in early tonight. See you tomorrow,ö Keitaro smiled.
ôYes, see you tomorrow.ö
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Art Attack
I'm not.
And now, you'll see what I was planning when I said "rewrite".
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The following morning, Kitsune looked glumly as she digested the news sheÆd received from a co-worker.
There had been some restructuring at the publishers and they were terminating the generous freelance contracts that had been negotiated during the economic boom years. Gone were the days of 20 yen per word articles about frivolous nonsense like the rise in cat ownership versus the decline in dog ownership.
Instead the new contracts included details like a minimum of two articles to be submitted per month and at a rate of 10 yen per word with no guarantee of publication.
Sure, Mitsune could regularly crank out a 10,000 word article on life for a modern single girl in Japan, but that seemed far too much like hard work to her.
ôKitsune-sempai,ö a gentle voice called out. ôYouÆve got some mail.ö
ôOh, thank you, Shinobu-chan,ö the ash-blonde smiled as she walked over to her friend and took her message. She looked at it hesitantly for a moment, noting that it had come from her publishing company before leaving for her room.
Upon closing the door, Kitsune opened the envelope.
æMiss Mitsune Konno,
As you may be aware, the recent economic situation has been a challenging one. We have tried to maintain our current staff levels for as long as possible in the hopes of a sustained economic recovery.
Unfortunately, all official forecasts suggest that we will have to restructure certain departments to maintain commercial viability throughout these challenging times and one of the areas earmarked for restructuring is that of the freelance writers.
We appreciate all of your hard work and effort over the time of your employment with us, but we are unable to continue with your current terms of employment.Æ
ôCrap, itÆs true,ö Kitsune muttered. ôTheyÆre cutting the rate for articles.ö
She read on.
æOur records show that you have not submitted an article for publishing for some time. Unfortunately, that has led to the decision to terminate your contract with immediate effect.
We wish all the best for the future in all your endeavours.
Regards,
Tetsuo Yamadera
Sesukechiwan PublishingÆ
ôWhat? How can they do that to me?ö Kitsune demanded from the empty room. ôDonÆt they know how much rent I owe?ö
The short-haired young woman flung herself onto her bed and let out a depressed sigh. ôIf I donÆt get some money together soon, KeitaroÆs going to kick me out, I just know it.ö
Mitsune mentally ran through all the times sheÆd managed to distract Keitaro from his rent collection over the past few months. Sometimes it was a genuine inquiry about his freelance artwork, others it was with a little flash of flesh.
Occasionally, when things looked really bad, she caused trouble. A false claim here, a æis that someone sneaking into your room?Æ there and Keitaro would scurry off to protect his beloved drawings or flee in order to avoid a beating from Naru or Motoko.
Looking out the window, a thought popped into her head. ôMaybe Haruka-san can help me? And maybe sheÆllàö
As KitsuneÆs words trailed off, a blush appeared on her cheeks. ôItÆs incredibly unlikely, but you never knowàö
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Haruka Urashima was sipping at her coffee when her best friend strolled in with a hopeful look on her face.
ôIÆm not in the mood for drinking right now, Kitsune,ö the smoker pre-empted.
ôOh? IsnÆt every day a great day for a drink?ö Kitsune smiled back in response.
Haruka shook her head and placed her coffee on the countertop. ôSo, what brings you here, Kitsune?ö
ôIà I need some help,ö the ash-blonde answered. She looked around and confirmed that there was only the two of them in the tea house at the moment. ôIÆm in a spot of bother.ö
ôHow much?ö
ôWhat?ö
ôHow much do you owe and to whom?ö Haruka asked as she wrapped her fingers around the coffee mug. ôExperience has taught me that with you, itÆs usually money, Kitsune.ö
Kitsune laughed nervously. ôWell, the good news is itÆs not a yakuza loan shark or anything like that.ö
ôThat is good news,ö the older woman drawled. She sipped her coffee some more and place the cup down. ôAnd the bad news?ö
ôI kinda owe three monthsÆ rent.ö
Haruka gently tapped her fingers on the countertop. ôYou owe Keitaro three monthsÆ rent? Are you going to tell me why you havenÆt paid the rent for three months? You are aware that many landlords would have thrown you out after the first month, arenÆt you?ö
ôWell, yeah, but I can explain û I havenÆt been inspired to write anything lately and thatÆs kinda the other part of my problem,ö the short-haired woman admitted.
ôGo on,ö the older woman gestured as she drank more of her coffee.
ôIÆve been let go,ö Kitsune said as she handed the letter sheÆd received to Haruka.
Haruka scanned through the letter and handed it back. ôYou have my sympathy, and I donÆt mean the kind where you point and laugh. But what do you want me to do? IÆm not hiring anyone right now, and I canÆt fire someone so you can replace them.ö
ôYou have to help me, Haruka-san,ö Kitsune pleaded. ôI canÆt go back to my family.ö
ôI donÆt remember there being any bad feelings between you and your family, Kitsune,ö Haruka said.
ôThere arenÆt, but itÆsàö the ash-blonde took a deep breath and continued. ôHere, IÆve got so much freedom: I can stay out ætil whenever I want without answering to my parents; I can wear what I like without people judging me.
ôNot only that, but I get the feeling that theyÆd be slightly disappointed in me û I mean, they think I left home to make it in the big city. If I come home with all my stuff, theyÆre going to think I failed miserably. Plus, they donÆt have the space for all my things.ö
ôOk, so you canÆt go home,ö Haruka conceded. ôYou canÆt stay here û thereÆs only one bed. And I sleep in it.ö
ôItÆd only be for a short whileàö Kitsune shrugged. She turned to Haruka and playfully fluttered her eyes at her. ôBesides, I thought we were close enough to share certain thingsàö
ôI donÆt swing that way,ö the smoker chided. Though her thoughts drifted back to the year she spent with Seta and SaraÆs mother. æThat singer got it wrong û it wasnÆt the summer of 69, it was more like the summer of threesomesàÆ
ôBoo,ö Kitsune pouted. ôSo, what could I do?ö
ôFind some rich guy to marry,ö Haruka answered. ôIÆm sure you can find someone to appreciate your advances more than I ever did.ö
ôYeah, but where do I find someone who isnÆt sleazy and would take care of me?ö
ôI can think of one person,ö the smoker said with a dreamy look in her eye.
ôWho?ö
ôKeitaro,ö Haruka said with a wistful sigh.
ôKeitaro?ö Kitsune repeated, missing her friendÆs reaction to the name. ôOk, sure, youÆre family and youÆre going to portray him in a positive light, but what makes you think that KeitaroÆs such a great catch?ö
ôYou obviously havenÆt had a massage from him. Or tasted his double-choc mint cookies,ö the smoker replied.
The short-haired woman pondered her friendÆs words. ôKeitaroÆs got kitchen skills?ö
ôOf course he does, his parents wanted him to take over their bakery,ö Haruka reminded.
ôAnd since when do you let people touch you? You must have soft spot for Keitaro, is it here?ö Kitsune grinned as she reached over to grab her friendÆs breasts.
Thwack.
ôOwàö the would-be groper whimpered as she rubbed the top of her head where HarukaÆs paper fan had appeared from nowhere and struck her.
ôIÆm particular about who touches me, Kitsune, you know that. Being pawed like that makes me feel uncomfortable,ö Haruka chided. ôBesides, what makes you think that youÆre a prize? YouÆre unemployed, youÆre in debt and you donÆt have any domestic skills.ö
ôIÆve got these,ö Kitsune countered, drawing attention to her breasts. ôTheyÆre even bigger than yours, Haruka-san.ö
ôIt takes more than large breasts to sustain a relationship, Kitsune. So unless youÆre willing to move from freelance journalism to compensated dating, your options are limited.ö
Kitsune blinked. She knew that her friend had long been a realist, but this was an unsettling change of tone. It was almost defeatist.
ôIs everything alright, Haruka-san?ö
ôIà IÆm tired, thatÆs all, Kitsune,ö Haruka said before finishing her coffee. ôI havenÆt slept well for the past few nights and itÆs catching up with me.ö
ôSounds like you need a massage,ö the short-haired girl winked playfully. She rubbed her hands together. ôI donÆt have a great deal of experience, but IÆm willing to learn how to rub you up the right way.ö
Haruka cast withering look at her friend. ôAre you always this æhands-onÆ with the girls at the Inn?ö
ôNo, not alwaysàö
Haruka pulled out a cigarette. ôLook, weÆre friends, and I like you a lot, but IÆm just not interested in that kind of relationship, Kitsune.ö
ôIt doesnÆt have to be a relationship, Haruka-san, just an encounter or twoàö Kitsune countered. ôYou shouldnÆt knock it until youÆve tried it.ö
ôWhat makes you think that I havenÆt?ö
ôYouÆve slept with another girl?ö the sake-loving girlÆs posture changed. ôWho? When? And do I know them?ö
Haruka chuckled. ôIÆve said too much already. How do you want to deal with the rent situation with Keitaro? Do you want to speak with him first or do you want me to handle it?ö
ôI donÆt know what to do.ö
The older woman stretched. ôIt should be you who deals with this, but I canÆt see Keitaro throwing you out into the street. Unless youÆve left him in a room with a weird alien pod...ö
ôI think weÆre all out of alien pods,ö Kitsune replied. ôBut how do I tell him that æI canÆt pay the rent arrears because I just lost my job. Also, letÆs get engaged so I donÆt have to pay them!Æ?ö
ôYou donÆt,ö Haruka answered. ôYou have to tell Keitaro the truth, but itÆs how you shade the truth thatÆs the important thing. But before we continue along this path, thereÆs one thing you should know: if you hurt Keitaro, people far more vicious than I will find you.ö
ôHow vicious are these people?ö
The smoker let out a wry grin. ôItÆd be best to focus on treating Keitaro properly.ö
ôO-ok,ö Kitsune nodded, clearly unsettled by the idea that there was someone more protective of Keitaro than Haruka. ôSo, what version of the truth do I tell Keitaro?ö
ôHow far are you willing to go to stay living at the Inn and not have to pay the back-rent?ö
ôI donÆt know,ö the ash-blonde shrugged. ôWhat are you planning, Haruka-san?ö
ôTell Keitaro that you need to get married to him as soon as possible.ö
The door opened and Keitaro entered the teashop. ôHi, Au- err, Haruka-san. Kitsune, can I talk to you?ö
ôIÆm kinda busy at the moment,ö Kitsune replied, knowing full well what Keitaro wanted to talk to her about.
Keitaro sighed. ôSorry, but IÆve been going over the records, and I need to talk to you about the rent.ö
ôKitsune canÆt pay because sheÆs being blackmailed,ö Haruka lied effortlessly. æI hate lying to Keitaro. ItÆs not fair, damn it. You better appreciate this, Kitsune!Æ
ôB-blackmail? C-canÆt you go to the police?ö
ôNo, they threatened toàö Kitsune trailed off, hoping that Keitaro would draw his own conclusions.
ôIs there anything I can do to help?ö Keitaro asked.
ôWell,ö Haruka said, looking around the teashop. She was about to continue when a customer walked. ôWeÆll talk about it tonight, ok? IÆll be over at 9.ö
ôOk,ö the bespectacled Urashima nodded. ôIÆll do what I can to help, I promise.ö
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During the early evening, Haruka looked over the notes sheÆd taken and wondered if this scheme to save her friendÆs skin was worth it.
Kitsune was her best friend, and if it was anyone else, then itÆd be no contest.
However the other person in this scheme was Keitaro.
For as long as sheÆd known him, Haruka had always cared for Keitaro. Their relationship had started out similar to that of an older sibling looking out for an annoying little brother, but when Keitaro had learned how to do things for himself, heÆd bust a gut to help people.
It was most endearing, and the smoker had wondered what it would have been like if their ages had been closer together. Would she have been more forward with her affections, like Kanako?
Would Keitaro have attempted to seduce her?
Haruka let out a sigh as another possibility entered her head. ôPerhaps Keitaro and I wouldnÆt have gotten along at all?ö
Shaking her head to clear it of the silly notion, she looked over the notes again. ôI still donÆt see how Kitsune getting married to Keitaro is going to stop any æblackmailÆ.ö
Haruka frowned at the empty state of her coffee cup and left to make a fresh brew. As she stood waiting for the machine to finish its cycle, the thought of having someone to look after; and in turn be looked after her gained in appeal.
æIf onlyàÆ ôWait, thatÆs it!ö
Returning to her seat with the fresh coffee, Haruka started to scribble down notes as to the best way to get Kitsune out of the hole sheÆd dug herself into.
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At a quarter to nine, Haruka knocked onto the door to KitsuneÆs room.
ôCome in,ö the tired voice called out.
ôPerk up, Kitsune, your best friend has just saved your bacon.ö
ôYou have?ö the ash-blonde asked. ôHow?ö
ôYou were trying to get some better working hours when you upset the wrong person at the company and theyÆve made your office life a living hell. Everyone whispered things and you tried to ignore them. Three months ago, you tried to make peace, but the price was too high,ö Haruka explained. ôYouÆre not the kind of girl who sleeps with just anyone.ö
ôOk, IÆm with you so far. And then what?ö
ôAfter some fear and intimidation, you decided that you couldnÆt face going back to the office to submit your work, and you canÆt tell HR what happened. Since you havenÆt been working for them, theyÆve had to let you go. You can show Keitaro the letter you were sent.ö
Kitsune nodded. ôThis is good stuff, Haruka-san. Why donÆt you try writing short stories yourself?ö
ôBecause I donÆt have the time, Kitsune; besides which, I already got this from a story. Now, hereÆs the tricky bit. You need to convince Keitaro that because youÆre in such a delicate emotional state, you need the stability of a formal relationshipö Haruka said solemnly.
ôAre you sure Keitaro would go for this?ö the sake-loving girl asked. ôIt does seem rather far-fetched and KeitaroÆs got a soft heart, not a soft head.ö
ôHow well can you sell the despair of having to sell your body on the street to pay for drugs?ö
ôWhoa, this is getting pretty dark here, Haruka-san,ö Kitsune countered. ôAre you sure about this?ö
ôNo, but what choice do we have?ö Haruka countered.
There was a knock on the door. ôKitsune, Haruka-san, are you in there?ö
ôCome in, Keitaro,ö Kitsune called out.
Keitaro opened the door and closed it behind him. ôIs there anything I can do to help either of you?ö
ôYes,ö Haruka nodded. ôFor the moment, just sit there and be understanding.ö
Nodding, the young man took a seat in front of the bed and looked intently at his tenant.
Kitsune took a deep breath and began to spin a web of lies, embellishments and half-truths based up the facts she could show and the scenario Haruka had outlined.
After ten minutes, Keitaro was visibly concerned for the short-haired young woman. ôI-is there anything I can do to help? I mean, I canÆt really offer you a paying job, Kitsune, but IÆll do whatever I can to help you.ö
ôIà all this change has made meàö Kitsune sniffed. ôI need something I can rely onà Someone whoÆs there for me and isnÆt going to get rid of me because I canÆt pay my wayàö
The bespectacled Urashima welled up. ôKitsuneà I will take care of you. From now until I die, I promise to do whatever I can to keep you safe and happy.ö
ôKeitaroàö the ash-blonde sighed. She didnÆt want to manipulate Keitaro, but HarukaÆs plan was working like a charm and she couldnÆt see any other solution.
Haruka had remained silent throughout the exchange, her feelings carefully hidden. Despite keeping her feelings towards Keitaro a secret for so long, she didnÆt want to endanger her friend.
æDamn, now I know how Kitsune felt whenever she moved aside for NaruàÆ
Keitaro turned to his cousin. ôHaruka-san, is something wrong?ö
ôà Ià itÆs hard to explain, Keitaro. Some other time, weÆre dealing with Kitsune now.ö
ôOh, ok, but if you need someone to talk to, you know where to find me. IÆll even make cookies.ö
ôDoes that mean I get some cookies?ö Kitsune wondered aloud. When she realised sheÆd caught everyoneÆs attention, she looked rather apologetic. ôHehehàö
ôSome other time, Kitsune,ö Haruka decided. ôItÆs too late to be making things in the kitchen tonight. But I donÆt think a massage is out of the question. For both of usàö
ôA-are you sure?ö Keitaro asked, swallowing nervously. The last time heÆd massaged Haruka, his hands had brushed up against her breasts. That memory had sustained him through many long, lonely nights.
At least it had until he realised that Haruka would be disgusted with him for his behaviour. æIÆm sure that Haruka-san wouldnÆt like me touching her there.Æ
ôYeah, Haruka-san seems to think that youÆve got magic hands, Keitaro,ö Kitsune purred.
Keitaro blushed, unsure of what to say or do next. He turned to Haruka for anything that might help him out.
The conflicted look on his cousinÆs face made his stomach clench.
æIs this a game? How much trouble is Kitsune in?Æ the ronin wondered. He swallowed to help calm his nerves. ôOk, but IÆm a little out of practice.ö
Kitsune winked playfully before sitting down on the floor in front of Keitaro and rolling her shoulders twice.
Hesitantly, the bespectacled Urashima reached out and put his trembling hands on the ash-blondeÆs shoulders. Slowly, he started to rub the neck muscles.
When Keitaro gradually gained confidence that he was doing the right thing and continued with his task, Kitsune shifted slightly as she said, ôDown a bit Keitaro.ö
ôO-ok,ö the ronin said as he worked on what felt like a particularly tense area.
ôOooohhàö the voluptuous girl moaned softly.
Haruka managed to refrain from shaking her head. She knew that it was part teasing Keitaro and part Kitsune genuinely enjoying the massage. She couldnÆt help the feelings of envy; there hadnÆt been someone to look after her like that for some time.
The smoker thought back to the last time sheÆd had a massage. Keitaro had been the one to help ease her tension by giving her a back rub. A smile appeared on her face as she remembered the accident that had happened when Keitaro had been distracted.
It had only been accidental contact, but KeitaroÆs gentle fingers had brushed up against the sides of her breasts. For a brief moment, Haruka had wondered if Keitaro was taking the initiative and making a move for her.
But then she realised that he wasnÆt and now, in a strange twist of fate, had left her in a similar situation to where she found herself now.
Again, it was clear that Keitaro wanted to help, but Haruka found herself unable to tell him what she wanted the most. How could she?
How do you tell someone you want a relationship with them? Even if they werenÆt cousins, Haruka felt that she was too old to ever find someone to have a meaningful relationship with; Keitaro was entering the prime of his life, she was now a Christmas cake.
SheÆd wasted too much time waiting for Seta to get his act together
ôStupid archaeologist idiot with his obsession with turtle worshiping dead peopleàö the smoker muttered angrily.
Keitaro turned to Haruka. ôIs everything alright, Haruka?ö
ôItÆs nothing, Keitaro. IÆm just tired, thatÆs all. If youÆll excuse me, IÆll be going home now.ö
ôOk,ö the ronin nodded. ôErr, Kitsune, I think we should stop there. WeÆll talk about this tomorrow, ok?ö
ôOk, Keitaro,ö Kitsune said. She turned around and gave him a kiss on the cheek. ôThank you, Keitaro.ö
When Haruka stood up to leave, Keitaro also jumped to his feet. ôErr, Haruka-san, can I walk you home?ö
Haruka felt her heat skip a beat at that request, but her cynicism quickly crushed her hope that Keitaro wanted to go back to her place for some fun. æWhy do I keep having these silly thoughts about Keitaro?Æ ôSure.ö
@@@@@
The Urashimas walked down the hill to the Hinata Teahouse in silence, their footsteps rapidly synchronising as both of them pondered what to say to the other.
Three quarters of the way down, Keitaro finally gathered the courage to speak.
ôHaruka, KitsuneÆs situation; is it as bad as she says?ö he asked.
ôWhy do you ask?ö
ôSome of the things she said donÆt quite add up.ö
ôOh?ö Haruka replied.
ôY-yeah, I mean, IÆm not calling her a liar or anything, and I get that someone might think that sheÆsà you know,ö Keitaro said, fumbling over his words. ôBut do you really think that sheÆd let people treat her like that? IÆd have helped her if sheÆd asked me û we all would have, but isnÆt it a little strange that itÆs suddenly now that she needs _my_ help?ö
The smoker winced slightly. ôItÆsà LetÆs get inside before we talk about this.ö
The ronin nodded and followed his cousin to the nearest door to the Teahouse.
When they were inside, Haruka locked the door before preparing a couple of drinks.
Keitaro noticed that they were alcoholic and that there were two cups. ôIs something wrong, Haruka?ö
ôSit down, Keitaro and IÆll explain,ö the elder Urashima sighed. She took a sip from her sake.
Keitaro saw this and realised something was wrong. ôItÆs not as bad as she said, is it?ö
ôNo,ö the smoker replied. ôShe might have embellished a few details, but she does really need your help.ö
The ronin sighed. ôWhy does everything have to be dressed up and hidden with Kitsune? Of course IÆll help her, but I need to know the truth. What is the situation and what help does she need?ö
ôPromise me you wonÆt tell anyone,ö Haruka said solemnly.
ôI promise,ö Keitaro replied, ôI wonÆt tell anyone what youÆre about to tell me.ö
ôOk. Kitsune hasnÆt had a paycheque for the last three months and the publishers have just let her go. The plot against her is just a lie to get you to help her.ö
ôDamn it! Why does everyone have to try and manipulate me?ö
Haruka killed her drink. ôT-thereÆs something else you need to know, Keitaro.ö
ôWhatÆs that?ö
ôKitsune came to me for help earlier and I helped her with her story to get you to help her out.ö
ôY-you too, Aunt Haruka?ö Keitaro demanded, his frustration causing his slip.
Haruka looked at her empty cup. ôI didnÆt want to hurt you, Keitaro,ö she said before refilling it.
ôOk, so now what do we do? Should I tell Kitsune that I know the truth? Should I pretend that I donÆt know any better?ö the ronin asked before knocking back his sake. ôI ask because it sounds like you and Kitsune have this whole thing worked out. Yet another person has plans for me!ö
ôItÆs not like that, Keitaro!ö
ôOh? Then what is it like?ö
ôIà IÆm sorry, Keitaro. Ià KitsuneÆs my friend, right? I donÆt want to see her kicked out into the street,ö Haruka said. ôBut I donÆt want to see you end up broken hearted or alone, like me.ö
Keitaro blinked. He hadnÆt thought about HarukaÆs situation before. She had more friends than he did û the girls at the Inn werenÆt really his friends, not like Shirai and Haitani. Not to mention that they were better friends than his two schoolmates. He doubted that theyÆd do anything like this to save him or each other.
ôY-youÆre alone?ö
ôKeitaro, the last time a man touched me in an erogenous zone who wasnÆt a doctor was you when you gave me a back massage.ö
The roninÆs face fell. ôIà that was an accident! My fingers slipped! I didnÆt mean to touch your boobs!ö
ôI know, Keitaro, I know,ö Haruka sighed. ôIÆve been alone for a long time now, and I donÆt want you to have to go through that.ö
ôYou really think that Kitsune and I would be a good match? That is why you suggested that I go out with her to solve her problem, right?ö
ôYeah. But you canÆt tell me that youÆd hate getting frisky with her. I hear all sorts, you know.ö
Keitaro laughed nervously. ôOk. So how do I help Kitsune without blabbing her secrets to the others? TheyÆre going to want to know why weÆre suddenly getting together like this. The only thing that springs to mind isàö
ôA baby,ö Haruka finished. ôTheyÆre going to notice that somethingÆs wrong when Kitsune doesnÆt start showing in a couple of months. Of course, if you were to get Kitsune pregnant, then the cover story would fit. Hell, itÆd be the truth!ö
ôA nice idea, Haruka, but thereÆs a slight problem û I know that Kitsune doesnÆt feel anything for me. Well, certainly not enough for her to want to spend the rest of her life with me,ö the younger Urashima countered.
ôPerhaps youÆre being overly hard on yourself, Keitaro? Remember, I hear things.ö
ôPerhaps. Anyway, itÆs getting late and IÆm tired. WeÆll work some more of this out in the morning,ö Keitaro said, standing up. ôGood night, Haruka. See you tomorrow.ö
ôNight, Keitaro.ö
@@@@@
To be continuedà
I'm not.
And now, you'll see what I was planning when I said "rewrite".
@@@@@
The following morning, Kitsune looked glumly as she digested the news sheÆd received from a co-worker.
There had been some restructuring at the publishers and they were terminating the generous freelance contracts that had been negotiated during the economic boom years. Gone were the days of 20 yen per word articles about frivolous nonsense like the rise in cat ownership versus the decline in dog ownership.
Instead the new contracts included details like a minimum of two articles to be submitted per month and at a rate of 10 yen per word with no guarantee of publication.
Sure, Mitsune could regularly crank out a 10,000 word article on life for a modern single girl in Japan, but that seemed far too much like hard work to her.
ôKitsune-sempai,ö a gentle voice called out. ôYouÆve got some mail.ö
ôOh, thank you, Shinobu-chan,ö the ash-blonde smiled as she walked over to her friend and took her message. She looked at it hesitantly for a moment, noting that it had come from her publishing company before leaving for her room.
Upon closing the door, Kitsune opened the envelope.
æMiss Mitsune Konno,
As you may be aware, the recent economic situation has been a challenging one. We have tried to maintain our current staff levels for as long as possible in the hopes of a sustained economic recovery.
Unfortunately, all official forecasts suggest that we will have to restructure certain departments to maintain commercial viability throughout these challenging times and one of the areas earmarked for restructuring is that of the freelance writers.
We appreciate all of your hard work and effort over the time of your employment with us, but we are unable to continue with your current terms of employment.Æ
ôCrap, itÆs true,ö Kitsune muttered. ôTheyÆre cutting the rate for articles.ö
She read on.
æOur records show that you have not submitted an article for publishing for some time. Unfortunately, that has led to the decision to terminate your contract with immediate effect.
We wish all the best for the future in all your endeavours.
Regards,
Tetsuo Yamadera
Sesukechiwan PublishingÆ
ôWhat? How can they do that to me?ö Kitsune demanded from the empty room. ôDonÆt they know how much rent I owe?ö
The short-haired young woman flung herself onto her bed and let out a depressed sigh. ôIf I donÆt get some money together soon, KeitaroÆs going to kick me out, I just know it.ö
Mitsune mentally ran through all the times sheÆd managed to distract Keitaro from his rent collection over the past few months. Sometimes it was a genuine inquiry about his freelance artwork, others it was with a little flash of flesh.
Occasionally, when things looked really bad, she caused trouble. A false claim here, a æis that someone sneaking into your room?Æ there and Keitaro would scurry off to protect his beloved drawings or flee in order to avoid a beating from Naru or Motoko.
Looking out the window, a thought popped into her head. ôMaybe Haruka-san can help me? And maybe sheÆllàö
As KitsuneÆs words trailed off, a blush appeared on her cheeks. ôItÆs incredibly unlikely, but you never knowàö
@@@@@
Haruka Urashima was sipping at her coffee when her best friend strolled in with a hopeful look on her face.
ôIÆm not in the mood for drinking right now, Kitsune,ö the smoker pre-empted.
ôOh? IsnÆt every day a great day for a drink?ö Kitsune smiled back in response.
Haruka shook her head and placed her coffee on the countertop. ôSo, what brings you here, Kitsune?ö
ôIà I need some help,ö the ash-blonde answered. She looked around and confirmed that there was only the two of them in the tea house at the moment. ôIÆm in a spot of bother.ö
ôHow much?ö
ôWhat?ö
ôHow much do you owe and to whom?ö Haruka asked as she wrapped her fingers around the coffee mug. ôExperience has taught me that with you, itÆs usually money, Kitsune.ö
Kitsune laughed nervously. ôWell, the good news is itÆs not a yakuza loan shark or anything like that.ö
ôThat is good news,ö the older woman drawled. She sipped her coffee some more and place the cup down. ôAnd the bad news?ö
ôI kinda owe three monthsÆ rent.ö
Haruka gently tapped her fingers on the countertop. ôYou owe Keitaro three monthsÆ rent? Are you going to tell me why you havenÆt paid the rent for three months? You are aware that many landlords would have thrown you out after the first month, arenÆt you?ö
ôWell, yeah, but I can explain û I havenÆt been inspired to write anything lately and thatÆs kinda the other part of my problem,ö the short-haired woman admitted.
ôGo on,ö the older woman gestured as she drank more of her coffee.
ôIÆve been let go,ö Kitsune said as she handed the letter sheÆd received to Haruka.
Haruka scanned through the letter and handed it back. ôYou have my sympathy, and I donÆt mean the kind where you point and laugh. But what do you want me to do? IÆm not hiring anyone right now, and I canÆt fire someone so you can replace them.ö
ôYou have to help me, Haruka-san,ö Kitsune pleaded. ôI canÆt go back to my family.ö
ôI donÆt remember there being any bad feelings between you and your family, Kitsune,ö Haruka said.
ôThere arenÆt, but itÆsàö the ash-blonde took a deep breath and continued. ôHere, IÆve got so much freedom: I can stay out ætil whenever I want without answering to my parents; I can wear what I like without people judging me.
ôNot only that, but I get the feeling that theyÆd be slightly disappointed in me û I mean, they think I left home to make it in the big city. If I come home with all my stuff, theyÆre going to think I failed miserably. Plus, they donÆt have the space for all my things.ö
ôOk, so you canÆt go home,ö Haruka conceded. ôYou canÆt stay here û thereÆs only one bed. And I sleep in it.ö
ôItÆd only be for a short whileàö Kitsune shrugged. She turned to Haruka and playfully fluttered her eyes at her. ôBesides, I thought we were close enough to share certain thingsàö
ôI donÆt swing that way,ö the smoker chided. Though her thoughts drifted back to the year she spent with Seta and SaraÆs mother. æThat singer got it wrong û it wasnÆt the summer of 69, it was more like the summer of threesomesàÆ
ôBoo,ö Kitsune pouted. ôSo, what could I do?ö
ôFind some rich guy to marry,ö Haruka answered. ôIÆm sure you can find someone to appreciate your advances more than I ever did.ö
ôYeah, but where do I find someone who isnÆt sleazy and would take care of me?ö
ôI can think of one person,ö the smoker said with a dreamy look in her eye.
ôWho?ö
ôKeitaro,ö Haruka said with a wistful sigh.
ôKeitaro?ö Kitsune repeated, missing her friendÆs reaction to the name. ôOk, sure, youÆre family and youÆre going to portray him in a positive light, but what makes you think that KeitaroÆs such a great catch?ö
ôYou obviously havenÆt had a massage from him. Or tasted his double-choc mint cookies,ö the smoker replied.
The short-haired woman pondered her friendÆs words. ôKeitaroÆs got kitchen skills?ö
ôOf course he does, his parents wanted him to take over their bakery,ö Haruka reminded.
ôAnd since when do you let people touch you? You must have soft spot for Keitaro, is it here?ö Kitsune grinned as she reached over to grab her friendÆs breasts.
Thwack.
ôOwàö the would-be groper whimpered as she rubbed the top of her head where HarukaÆs paper fan had appeared from nowhere and struck her.
ôIÆm particular about who touches me, Kitsune, you know that. Being pawed like that makes me feel uncomfortable,ö Haruka chided. ôBesides, what makes you think that youÆre a prize? YouÆre unemployed, youÆre in debt and you donÆt have any domestic skills.ö
ôIÆve got these,ö Kitsune countered, drawing attention to her breasts. ôTheyÆre even bigger than yours, Haruka-san.ö
ôIt takes more than large breasts to sustain a relationship, Kitsune. So unless youÆre willing to move from freelance journalism to compensated dating, your options are limited.ö
Kitsune blinked. She knew that her friend had long been a realist, but this was an unsettling change of tone. It was almost defeatist.
ôIs everything alright, Haruka-san?ö
ôIà IÆm tired, thatÆs all, Kitsune,ö Haruka said before finishing her coffee. ôI havenÆt slept well for the past few nights and itÆs catching up with me.ö
ôSounds like you need a massage,ö the short-haired girl winked playfully. She rubbed her hands together. ôI donÆt have a great deal of experience, but IÆm willing to learn how to rub you up the right way.ö
Haruka cast withering look at her friend. ôAre you always this æhands-onÆ with the girls at the Inn?ö
ôNo, not alwaysàö
Haruka pulled out a cigarette. ôLook, weÆre friends, and I like you a lot, but IÆm just not interested in that kind of relationship, Kitsune.ö
ôIt doesnÆt have to be a relationship, Haruka-san, just an encounter or twoàö Kitsune countered. ôYou shouldnÆt knock it until youÆve tried it.ö
ôWhat makes you think that I havenÆt?ö
ôYouÆve slept with another girl?ö the sake-loving girlÆs posture changed. ôWho? When? And do I know them?ö
Haruka chuckled. ôIÆve said too much already. How do you want to deal with the rent situation with Keitaro? Do you want to speak with him first or do you want me to handle it?ö
ôI donÆt know what to do.ö
The older woman stretched. ôIt should be you who deals with this, but I canÆt see Keitaro throwing you out into the street. Unless youÆve left him in a room with a weird alien pod...ö
ôI think weÆre all out of alien pods,ö Kitsune replied. ôBut how do I tell him that æI canÆt pay the rent arrears because I just lost my job. Also, letÆs get engaged so I donÆt have to pay them!Æ?ö
ôYou donÆt,ö Haruka answered. ôYou have to tell Keitaro the truth, but itÆs how you shade the truth thatÆs the important thing. But before we continue along this path, thereÆs one thing you should know: if you hurt Keitaro, people far more vicious than I will find you.ö
ôHow vicious are these people?ö
The smoker let out a wry grin. ôItÆd be best to focus on treating Keitaro properly.ö
ôO-ok,ö Kitsune nodded, clearly unsettled by the idea that there was someone more protective of Keitaro than Haruka. ôSo, what version of the truth do I tell Keitaro?ö
ôHow far are you willing to go to stay living at the Inn and not have to pay the back-rent?ö
ôI donÆt know,ö the ash-blonde shrugged. ôWhat are you planning, Haruka-san?ö
ôTell Keitaro that you need to get married to him as soon as possible.ö
The door opened and Keitaro entered the teashop. ôHi, Au- err, Haruka-san. Kitsune, can I talk to you?ö
ôIÆm kinda busy at the moment,ö Kitsune replied, knowing full well what Keitaro wanted to talk to her about.
Keitaro sighed. ôSorry, but IÆve been going over the records, and I need to talk to you about the rent.ö
ôKitsune canÆt pay because sheÆs being blackmailed,ö Haruka lied effortlessly. æI hate lying to Keitaro. ItÆs not fair, damn it. You better appreciate this, Kitsune!Æ
ôB-blackmail? C-canÆt you go to the police?ö
ôNo, they threatened toàö Kitsune trailed off, hoping that Keitaro would draw his own conclusions.
ôIs there anything I can do to help?ö Keitaro asked.
ôWell,ö Haruka said, looking around the teashop. She was about to continue when a customer walked. ôWeÆll talk about it tonight, ok? IÆll be over at 9.ö
ôOk,ö the bespectacled Urashima nodded. ôIÆll do what I can to help, I promise.ö
@@@@@
During the early evening, Haruka looked over the notes sheÆd taken and wondered if this scheme to save her friendÆs skin was worth it.
Kitsune was her best friend, and if it was anyone else, then itÆd be no contest.
However the other person in this scheme was Keitaro.
For as long as sheÆd known him, Haruka had always cared for Keitaro. Their relationship had started out similar to that of an older sibling looking out for an annoying little brother, but when Keitaro had learned how to do things for himself, heÆd bust a gut to help people.
It was most endearing, and the smoker had wondered what it would have been like if their ages had been closer together. Would she have been more forward with her affections, like Kanako?
Would Keitaro have attempted to seduce her?
Haruka let out a sigh as another possibility entered her head. ôPerhaps Keitaro and I wouldnÆt have gotten along at all?ö
Shaking her head to clear it of the silly notion, she looked over the notes again. ôI still donÆt see how Kitsune getting married to Keitaro is going to stop any æblackmailÆ.ö
Haruka frowned at the empty state of her coffee cup and left to make a fresh brew. As she stood waiting for the machine to finish its cycle, the thought of having someone to look after; and in turn be looked after her gained in appeal.
æIf onlyàÆ ôWait, thatÆs it!ö
Returning to her seat with the fresh coffee, Haruka started to scribble down notes as to the best way to get Kitsune out of the hole sheÆd dug herself into.
@@@@@
At a quarter to nine, Haruka knocked onto the door to KitsuneÆs room.
ôCome in,ö the tired voice called out.
ôPerk up, Kitsune, your best friend has just saved your bacon.ö
ôYou have?ö the ash-blonde asked. ôHow?ö
ôYou were trying to get some better working hours when you upset the wrong person at the company and theyÆve made your office life a living hell. Everyone whispered things and you tried to ignore them. Three months ago, you tried to make peace, but the price was too high,ö Haruka explained. ôYouÆre not the kind of girl who sleeps with just anyone.ö
ôOk, IÆm with you so far. And then what?ö
ôAfter some fear and intimidation, you decided that you couldnÆt face going back to the office to submit your work, and you canÆt tell HR what happened. Since you havenÆt been working for them, theyÆve had to let you go. You can show Keitaro the letter you were sent.ö
Kitsune nodded. ôThis is good stuff, Haruka-san. Why donÆt you try writing short stories yourself?ö
ôBecause I donÆt have the time, Kitsune; besides which, I already got this from a story. Now, hereÆs the tricky bit. You need to convince Keitaro that because youÆre in such a delicate emotional state, you need the stability of a formal relationshipö Haruka said solemnly.
ôAre you sure Keitaro would go for this?ö the sake-loving girl asked. ôIt does seem rather far-fetched and KeitaroÆs got a soft heart, not a soft head.ö
ôHow well can you sell the despair of having to sell your body on the street to pay for drugs?ö
ôWhoa, this is getting pretty dark here, Haruka-san,ö Kitsune countered. ôAre you sure about this?ö
ôNo, but what choice do we have?ö Haruka countered.
There was a knock on the door. ôKitsune, Haruka-san, are you in there?ö
ôCome in, Keitaro,ö Kitsune called out.
Keitaro opened the door and closed it behind him. ôIs there anything I can do to help either of you?ö
ôYes,ö Haruka nodded. ôFor the moment, just sit there and be understanding.ö
Nodding, the young man took a seat in front of the bed and looked intently at his tenant.
Kitsune took a deep breath and began to spin a web of lies, embellishments and half-truths based up the facts she could show and the scenario Haruka had outlined.
After ten minutes, Keitaro was visibly concerned for the short-haired young woman. ôI-is there anything I can do to help? I mean, I canÆt really offer you a paying job, Kitsune, but IÆll do whatever I can to help you.ö
ôIà all this change has made meàö Kitsune sniffed. ôI need something I can rely onà Someone whoÆs there for me and isnÆt going to get rid of me because I canÆt pay my wayàö
The bespectacled Urashima welled up. ôKitsuneà I will take care of you. From now until I die, I promise to do whatever I can to keep you safe and happy.ö
ôKeitaroàö the ash-blonde sighed. She didnÆt want to manipulate Keitaro, but HarukaÆs plan was working like a charm and she couldnÆt see any other solution.
Haruka had remained silent throughout the exchange, her feelings carefully hidden. Despite keeping her feelings towards Keitaro a secret for so long, she didnÆt want to endanger her friend.
æDamn, now I know how Kitsune felt whenever she moved aside for NaruàÆ
Keitaro turned to his cousin. ôHaruka-san, is something wrong?ö
ôà Ià itÆs hard to explain, Keitaro. Some other time, weÆre dealing with Kitsune now.ö
ôOh, ok, but if you need someone to talk to, you know where to find me. IÆll even make cookies.ö
ôDoes that mean I get some cookies?ö Kitsune wondered aloud. When she realised sheÆd caught everyoneÆs attention, she looked rather apologetic. ôHehehàö
ôSome other time, Kitsune,ö Haruka decided. ôItÆs too late to be making things in the kitchen tonight. But I donÆt think a massage is out of the question. For both of usàö
ôA-are you sure?ö Keitaro asked, swallowing nervously. The last time heÆd massaged Haruka, his hands had brushed up against her breasts. That memory had sustained him through many long, lonely nights.
At least it had until he realised that Haruka would be disgusted with him for his behaviour. æIÆm sure that Haruka-san wouldnÆt like me touching her there.Æ
ôYeah, Haruka-san seems to think that youÆve got magic hands, Keitaro,ö Kitsune purred.
Keitaro blushed, unsure of what to say or do next. He turned to Haruka for anything that might help him out.
The conflicted look on his cousinÆs face made his stomach clench.
æIs this a game? How much trouble is Kitsune in?Æ the ronin wondered. He swallowed to help calm his nerves. ôOk, but IÆm a little out of practice.ö
Kitsune winked playfully before sitting down on the floor in front of Keitaro and rolling her shoulders twice.
Hesitantly, the bespectacled Urashima reached out and put his trembling hands on the ash-blondeÆs shoulders. Slowly, he started to rub the neck muscles.
When Keitaro gradually gained confidence that he was doing the right thing and continued with his task, Kitsune shifted slightly as she said, ôDown a bit Keitaro.ö
ôO-ok,ö the ronin said as he worked on what felt like a particularly tense area.
ôOooohhàö the voluptuous girl moaned softly.
Haruka managed to refrain from shaking her head. She knew that it was part teasing Keitaro and part Kitsune genuinely enjoying the massage. She couldnÆt help the feelings of envy; there hadnÆt been someone to look after her like that for some time.
The smoker thought back to the last time sheÆd had a massage. Keitaro had been the one to help ease her tension by giving her a back rub. A smile appeared on her face as she remembered the accident that had happened when Keitaro had been distracted.
It had only been accidental contact, but KeitaroÆs gentle fingers had brushed up against the sides of her breasts. For a brief moment, Haruka had wondered if Keitaro was taking the initiative and making a move for her.
But then she realised that he wasnÆt and now, in a strange twist of fate, had left her in a similar situation to where she found herself now.
Again, it was clear that Keitaro wanted to help, but Haruka found herself unable to tell him what she wanted the most. How could she?
How do you tell someone you want a relationship with them? Even if they werenÆt cousins, Haruka felt that she was too old to ever find someone to have a meaningful relationship with; Keitaro was entering the prime of his life, she was now a Christmas cake.
SheÆd wasted too much time waiting for Seta to get his act together
ôStupid archaeologist idiot with his obsession with turtle worshiping dead peopleàö the smoker muttered angrily.
Keitaro turned to Haruka. ôIs everything alright, Haruka?ö
ôItÆs nothing, Keitaro. IÆm just tired, thatÆs all. If youÆll excuse me, IÆll be going home now.ö
ôOk,ö the ronin nodded. ôErr, Kitsune, I think we should stop there. WeÆll talk about this tomorrow, ok?ö
ôOk, Keitaro,ö Kitsune said. She turned around and gave him a kiss on the cheek. ôThank you, Keitaro.ö
When Haruka stood up to leave, Keitaro also jumped to his feet. ôErr, Haruka-san, can I walk you home?ö
Haruka felt her heat skip a beat at that request, but her cynicism quickly crushed her hope that Keitaro wanted to go back to her place for some fun. æWhy do I keep having these silly thoughts about Keitaro?Æ ôSure.ö
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The Urashimas walked down the hill to the Hinata Teahouse in silence, their footsteps rapidly synchronising as both of them pondered what to say to the other.
Three quarters of the way down, Keitaro finally gathered the courage to speak.
ôHaruka, KitsuneÆs situation; is it as bad as she says?ö he asked.
ôWhy do you ask?ö
ôSome of the things she said donÆt quite add up.ö
ôOh?ö Haruka replied.
ôY-yeah, I mean, IÆm not calling her a liar or anything, and I get that someone might think that sheÆsà you know,ö Keitaro said, fumbling over his words. ôBut do you really think that sheÆd let people treat her like that? IÆd have helped her if sheÆd asked me û we all would have, but isnÆt it a little strange that itÆs suddenly now that she needs _my_ help?ö
The smoker winced slightly. ôItÆsà LetÆs get inside before we talk about this.ö
The ronin nodded and followed his cousin to the nearest door to the Teahouse.
When they were inside, Haruka locked the door before preparing a couple of drinks.
Keitaro noticed that they were alcoholic and that there were two cups. ôIs something wrong, Haruka?ö
ôSit down, Keitaro and IÆll explain,ö the elder Urashima sighed. She took a sip from her sake.
Keitaro saw this and realised something was wrong. ôItÆs not as bad as she said, is it?ö
ôNo,ö the smoker replied. ôShe might have embellished a few details, but she does really need your help.ö
The ronin sighed. ôWhy does everything have to be dressed up and hidden with Kitsune? Of course IÆll help her, but I need to know the truth. What is the situation and what help does she need?ö
ôPromise me you wonÆt tell anyone,ö Haruka said solemnly.
ôI promise,ö Keitaro replied, ôI wonÆt tell anyone what youÆre about to tell me.ö
ôOk. Kitsune hasnÆt had a paycheque for the last three months and the publishers have just let her go. The plot against her is just a lie to get you to help her.ö
ôDamn it! Why does everyone have to try and manipulate me?ö
Haruka killed her drink. ôT-thereÆs something else you need to know, Keitaro.ö
ôWhatÆs that?ö
ôKitsune came to me for help earlier and I helped her with her story to get you to help her out.ö
ôY-you too, Aunt Haruka?ö Keitaro demanded, his frustration causing his slip.
Haruka looked at her empty cup. ôI didnÆt want to hurt you, Keitaro,ö she said before refilling it.
ôOk, so now what do we do? Should I tell Kitsune that I know the truth? Should I pretend that I donÆt know any better?ö the ronin asked before knocking back his sake. ôI ask because it sounds like you and Kitsune have this whole thing worked out. Yet another person has plans for me!ö
ôItÆs not like that, Keitaro!ö
ôOh? Then what is it like?ö
ôIà IÆm sorry, Keitaro. Ià KitsuneÆs my friend, right? I donÆt want to see her kicked out into the street,ö Haruka said. ôBut I donÆt want to see you end up broken hearted or alone, like me.ö
Keitaro blinked. He hadnÆt thought about HarukaÆs situation before. She had more friends than he did û the girls at the Inn werenÆt really his friends, not like Shirai and Haitani. Not to mention that they were better friends than his two schoolmates. He doubted that theyÆd do anything like this to save him or each other.
ôY-youÆre alone?ö
ôKeitaro, the last time a man touched me in an erogenous zone who wasnÆt a doctor was you when you gave me a back massage.ö
The roninÆs face fell. ôIà that was an accident! My fingers slipped! I didnÆt mean to touch your boobs!ö
ôI know, Keitaro, I know,ö Haruka sighed. ôIÆve been alone for a long time now, and I donÆt want you to have to go through that.ö
ôYou really think that Kitsune and I would be a good match? That is why you suggested that I go out with her to solve her problem, right?ö
ôYeah. But you canÆt tell me that youÆd hate getting frisky with her. I hear all sorts, you know.ö
Keitaro laughed nervously. ôOk. So how do I help Kitsune without blabbing her secrets to the others? TheyÆre going to want to know why weÆre suddenly getting together like this. The only thing that springs to mind isàö
ôA baby,ö Haruka finished. ôTheyÆre going to notice that somethingÆs wrong when Kitsune doesnÆt start showing in a couple of months. Of course, if you were to get Kitsune pregnant, then the cover story would fit. Hell, itÆd be the truth!ö
ôA nice idea, Haruka, but thereÆs a slight problem û I know that Kitsune doesnÆt feel anything for me. Well, certainly not enough for her to want to spend the rest of her life with me,ö the younger Urashima countered.
ôPerhaps youÆre being overly hard on yourself, Keitaro? Remember, I hear things.ö
ôPerhaps. Anyway, itÆs getting late and IÆm tired. WeÆll work some more of this out in the morning,ö Keitaro said, standing up. ôGood night, Haruka. See you tomorrow.ö
ôNight, Keitaro.ö
@@@@@
To be continuedà
Art Attack
Hmm, well, it is mostly the rather severe shift in tone, Finery felt like it was mostly about Keiaro's relationship with the slighly older females of the cast, possibly focussing mostly on character development, with a romantic subplot with a love trinagle, and Keitaro getting locked out of the loop about it.
Art Attack was more focused on Keitaro, and his secondary job, and while I think you the story would have been better with Keitaro trying to keep his job secret with various paper thin excuses for comedy hijinks.
I just don't feel you can get the best out of both ideas by putting them in the same story, you'll just end up with rather mediocre stuff instead.
Hmm, well, it is mostly the rather severe shift in tone, Finery felt like it was mostly about Keiaro's relationship with the slighly older females of the cast, possibly focussing mostly on character development, with a romantic subplot with a love trinagle, and Keitaro getting locked out of the loop about it.
Art Attack was more focused on Keitaro, and his secondary job, and while I think you the story would have been better with Keitaro trying to keep his job secret with various paper thin excuses for comedy hijinks.
I just don't feel you can get the best out of both ideas by putting them in the same story, you'll just end up with rather mediocre stuff instead.
Art Attack
Art Attack
By Lord Raa
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Disclaim-me-do: A rakish angle. I like it.
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Part 3
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Keitaro opened the door to the Inn and saw that Motoko was standing there with a concerned look on her face.
ôIs something up, Motoko-chan?ö
ôIs everything alright? Kitsune seems ratherà distracted by something.ö
Keitaro paused as he tried to word his response. He didnÆt want to lie to Motoko, but he didnÆt want to tell her KitsuneÆs secrets. ôItÆs something that Haruka and I are helping her out with. Hopefully, weÆll have everything sorted in a couple of days, so please bear with us, ok?ö
ôOf course, but if KitsuneÆs in trouble, all she needs to do is ask for my help, and IÆll be there,ö the kendoist replied.
ôIÆll let her know,ö the ronin smiled politely. He let out a yawn. ôSorry, Motoko-chan, but IÆm really tired. IÆm going to turn in now, see you in the morning.ö
ôGood night, Keitaro.ö
Keitaro walked to his room, his gaze focusing on the floorboards. His footsteps and breathing had been the only noise he made on his way to his room.
As he approached his room, he looked up to see that Kitsune was peeking out from behind the door to her room.
ôKeitaroà Iàö
Keitaro let out a sigh as he glanced up at the ash-blondeÆs face, his own expression a blend of fatigue and disappointment. ôWhat is it, Kitsune?ö
ôàö KitsuneÆs eyes opened when she realised that Keitaro knew. ôIà IÆm sorry, Keitaro.ö
ôWeÆll deal with it in the morning, Kitsune, when IÆve got a clear head.ö
ôIà I didnÆt want toàö the ash-blonde trailed off as she reached out for her landlord.
ôI said weÆll deal with it in the morning, Kitsune,ö Keitaro snapped, causing Kitsune to recoil in surprise. ôLook, IÆm too tired to deal with anything that doesnÆt involve me sleeping, ok?ö
ôSorry, Keitaro, IÆll leave you to get some rest.ö
@@@@@
In her room, Kitsune clenched her fists in frustration. She was angry at herself for letting things get so far out of hand.
Angry at herself for needing her best friendÆs help in such a harebrained scheme.
And she was angry at herself for lying to Keitaro like that. Playing him like a fool was still easy pickings, but when heÆd offered to take care of her for the rest of her life, it became clear just how far he was willing to go for her.
ôIf IÆd been a bit more honest, it still could have workedà Shit! I fucked up royally!ö she cursed.
The ash-blonde rubbed her face as she tried to figure out how to get out the hole sheÆd dug for herself.
SheÆd already discounted going home to her parents. Haruka had made it clear that she wasnÆt willing to put her up long term.
The other residents couldnÆt afford to pay her rent, and even if they could, why should they? She lacked the domestic skills to help Shinobu with the chores; she had no fighting skills to help Motoko with her training; and Naru was smart enough to get into Toudai on her own.
That left Su with her crazy experiments.
ôAnd Keitaro,ö she whispered. ôBut why would Keitaro agree to help me now?ö
Sure, if theyÆd been dating for a while and heÆd gotten her pregnant, then heÆd take responsibility. But that wasnÆt going to happen, now that he knew what she was willing to lie about.
She needed help. And there was only one person she could think of.
@@@@@
Haruka glared at her ringing mobile phone. She had decided to let it go to voicemail and continued her eveningÆs drinking.
After another two minutes, the phone started ringing again, causing the smoker to let out a curse.
Reaching over and grabbing the infernal device, she was about to remove the battery until she saw who was calling her.
ôWhat is it, Kitsune?ö
ô¼Ià I need some help, Haruka-san.¼ö
ôAnd just how badly have you screwed up now, Kitsune?ö
ô¼Keitaro knowsà how do I get him to let me stay?¼ö
ôYou seemed willing to put your tits to good use earlier, Kitsune, so let your sweater puppies run free!ö Haruka smirked.
ô¼YouÆre drunk!¼ö
ôAnd why wouldnÆt I be? I mean, I only conspired with my best friend against someone very dear to me. Helped you break his heart. No, canÆt think of a reason why I might need a drink tonight, Kitsune,ö the smoker mocked. She reached for her cigarettes and lit one up. ôOk, so how badly have you screwed up, Kitsune?ö
ô¼I tried to talk to Keitaro when he came back, but he told me to leave him alone,¼ö Kitsune answered.
ôSince you decided that you like living at the Inn, you could wait until morning. Hope that KeitaroÆs calmed down enough to help you with your problem,ö Haruka said before taking a long drag on her cigarette.
ô¼What if he doesnÆt calm down?¼ö
ôWhy wouldnÆt he calm down?ö
ô¼I donÆt know, maybe he hasnÆt had much sleep?¼ö Kitsune suggested. ô¼Maybe weÆve upset him so much he canÆt sleep? He seemed pretty grouchy to me just now.¼ö
ôThen help him relax, Kitsune. ItÆs not like you werenÆt willing to do it with Keitaro,ö Haruka replied. ôUnless that was a lie, tooàö
The ash-blonde swallowed nervously at the change in her friendÆs tone. ô¼No, I still am, butà is it really a good idea to sneak into KeitaroÆs bed? He made it clear that he wanted to get some sleep.¼ö
ôThen let him get his rest, Kitsune. If youÆre that worried about him being in a bad mood, then take care of his morning glory for him.ö
ô¼à¼ö
ôIÆm hanging up now, Kitsune. IÆve given you some advice, itÆs up to you what you do with it. Just make sure you donÆt hurt Keitaro,ö Haruka said as she ended the call.
@@@@@
In her room, Kitsune wondered what she should do. She could sneak into KeitaroÆs bed.
ôNo,ö she said, rejecting that idea. If she was willing to make up a false sexual harassment story about people trying to get her to sleep with them, then just slipping into someoneÆs bed was just going to make her look like the biggest hypocrite in town.
No, sheÆd have to let Keitaro get his sleep.
Of course, that did leave her with what to do in the morning.
Should she visit him first thing and apologise for lying to him?
If so, what should she say? Could she word it so it wasnÆt a pack of lies, but painted her in the best possible light?
Would Keitaro accept her apology?
What if Keitaro told her to leave? He would be well within his rights to tell her to get out and never come back.
What if Keitaro did accept her apology and, by some miracle, agreed to continue with the plan?
The others would never believe that she and Keitaro suddenly fell in love. TheyÆd be suspicious, and quite rightly so. That meant that theyÆd need to have been dating for some time before they could announce an engagement.
How long was suitable? Six weeks? Six months?
Would Keitaro make her get a job to pay the rent arrears and any rent until they got engaged?
What if during their ôdatingö she fell pregnant? Would that speed things up?
That brought up another issue û when would it be ôproperö for her to sleep with Keitaro? She wasnÆt some cheap floozy, but she still needed to make amends with Keitaro.
Would Keitaro force the sex issue? How far would he expect her to go? What if Keitaro wanted to do horribly perverted things with her? Was she willing to let Keitaro tie her up and spank her?
Was she willing to spank Keitaro if thatÆs what he was into?
What if Keitaro wanted to do it outdoors? A kiss and hug in public was one thing, but having sex outdoors?
KitsuneÆs head was spinning with all the questions and doubts. ôWhy did you have to be such a nice guy, Keitaro? I wouldnÆt feel bad about this if you were a jerkàö
Sighing, the ash-blonde pulled out her emergency stash of alcohol and took a long drink of sake. She looked at how much sheÆd drank and it made her grimace, but the sake also made her drowsy. Closing the bottle, she changed out of her clothes and into bed.
@@@@@
The morning came, and KitsuneÆs self-medication hadnÆt helped her sleep. Her mind had gone over the possibilities of how the conversation with Keitaro could go.
They had been boiled down to either Keitaro accepting her apology or rejecting it.
However, both of those options had potential to fork off into unforeseen directions.
If Keitaro accepted her apology, would he still agree to her original plan?
If Keitaro rejected her apology, would he kick her out of the Inn?
The thought of having to move out still scared her. And while moving out of her parentsÆ place had been a big enough adjustment out of her comfort zone, Haruka had been there to help her deal with the change; just like she had with the other tenants.
Except for Suu; he seemed to be an exception to most rules.
Yawning loudly and stretching, the ash-blonde glanced at the clock, barely believing that people could want to be awake at this time.
ôYou better appreciateàö Kitsune trailed off as she realised that she wasnÆt up at this time for KeitaroÆs benefit, but for her own. She shook her head before climbing out of her bed and opening her closet. ôWhatÆs the best thing to wear when apologising?ö she asked rhetorically.
Her eyes roamed the hangers, searching for something suitable. And while there were several outfits that hugged her figure, they were more suited for a night out than first thing in the morning û if any of the other tenants saw her, thereÆd be too many questions.
So that discounted the slinky dresses. And the red silk China dress that was a little tight around the chest whenever she wore a bra. Her beachwear, while alluring, was also something that would raise questions.
ôSleepwear or underwear?ö she asked herself as she alternated her attention between her reflection in the mirror and her underwear draw.
Standing outside KeitaroÆs room in her best lacy underwear would certainly get his attention but, again, there would be awkward questions if she was seen. And judging by the sounds coming from the garden, Motoko was certainly up and about.
Kitsune was about to give this up as a terrible idea, when she spotted her kimono. It wasnÆt a formal kimono, more a piece of cosplay gear that showed off far too much thigh and cleavage to be considered decent.
That was part of her sartorial dilemma resolved. Now the question was what to wear underneath it?
ôWell, I am trying to convince Keitaro to let me stay rent freeàö Kitsune said moments before she took off her sleepwear and slipped her kimono over her naked body.
@@@@@
Keitaro had already put his alarm into snooze mode once that morning. It had taken him a while before heÆd gotten to sleep, thanks to his brain focusing on how to deal with the situation Kitsune had brought about.
Eventually, heÆd given up thinking about and emptied his head of all thoughts about the curvy girl. That had helped him get some sleep, but also had the effect of making him forget why he was upset with the girl.
There was a knock on the door. The urgency was enough to force Keitaro to get out of bed and see who it was without putting on his glasses.
Upon opening the door, the ronin could just about see that it was Kitsune who had gotten him up.
ôK-Kitsune? What is it?ö
ôKeitaroà Iàö the ash-blonde hesitated as she heard footsteps rapidly approaching.
ôKitsune, itÆs early and I canÆt see properly, what is so important that it canÆt wait until IÆve woken up properly?ö Keitaro asked with a sigh.
ôItÆs about yesterdayàö
ôYesterday? What happenedà oh, right, yesterday,ö the visually-impaired youth sighed.
ôIàö Kitsune looked around and saw that it was Motoko who was quickly approaching. Not wanting to explain to her friend why she was standing in KeitaroÆs doorway dressed in a very short and rather inexpertly tied kimono, she pushed the young man into his room.
Unfortunately for the short-haired girl, Keitaro lacked grace, poise and the general ability to stay on his feet and he fell backwards, somehow causing Kitsune to fall on top of him.
Just as Motoko walked past the doorway.
ôW-whatÆs going on here?ö the kendoist asked, aghast at the compromising situation before.
ôI fell,ö Keitaro insisted.
Motoko was a little sceptical, but reasoned that if Keitaro was planning something perverted, heÆd have arranged to land on top of Kitsune. Having decided that it was either an accident or Kitsune trying to get out of paying her rent on time, she reached forward and lifted the sake-loving girl off their hapless landlord.
It was then that the kimono finally relented in its struggle to maintain KitsuneÆs modesty and fell open, revealing her large, creamy white breasts.
The kendoist saw that Keitaro was getting quite the view and panicked, but she slipped and somehow managed to cause Kitsune to splay her legs lewdly.
ôK-Kitsune, y-youÆreàö the scarlet-cheeked Motoko stammered, quickly realising that Keitaro wasnÆt looking at her or Kitsune and decided that bringing his attention to the indecent exposure was a bad idea. Silently, she dragged her nearly naked friend away.
The fact that Keitaro still being half-asleep meant that he only just realised what had happened and that heÆd missed the show Kitsune had put on. Of course, if heÆd been wearing his glasses, heÆd have seen everything.
That thought made him blush furiously, almost as much at Motoko.
ôNow what do I do about Kitsune?ö he asked rhetorically.
@@@@@
In her room, Mitsune was being chastised by Motoko for her actions.
ôMitsune-sempai, just why were you going to see Keitaro dressed like that?ö the kendoist demanded.
ôIà ItÆs nothing to worry about, Motoko-chan,ö Kitsune insisted weakly. ôI know what IÆm doing.ö
ôA-are you and Keitaroàö
ôNo, we are not dating. WeÆre not having guilt-free casual sex, either.ö
ôThen why were you visiting Keitaro dressed likeà that?ö Motoko demanded. ôYouÆre naked under your kimono. You wanted something from him, what was it?ö
ôMaybe I just wanted him?ö Kitsune winked teasingly.
ôàö Motoko shook her head. ôItÆs not my place to judge you, Mitsune-sempai.ö
ôBut you are anyway, Motoko,ö the ash-blonde countered. ôBut before you do, thereÆs something you should know.ö
Kitsune handed her friend the letter from her publisher.
ôOhà Kitsune, you should have said something!ö the kendoist said, throwing her arms around her.
ôYeah, butà these things are hard to talk about some times.ö
Motoko nodded. Pride was a powerful influence on a personÆs actions. It could make you ignore good advice and lead you into a disaster just as easily as it could motivate you to improve yourself.
ôCould you keep this a secret?ö Kitsune asked. ôItÆs a big shock and I still donÆt know what IÆm going to do about this just yet.ö
ôI will, Kitsune, and I will help you as best I can, but my allowance wonÆt cover anotherÆs rent here.ö
ôItÆs ok, Motoko-chan, IÆll figure something out.ö
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During breakfast, Naru noticed that something seemed off. Keitaro seemed to be walking on eggshells around Kitsune. He wasnÆt shunning her, just trying to avoid anything that could be misconstrued by Motoko.
And Motoko seemed to be alternating her attention between Keitaro and Kitsune.
It seemed a bit odd, but the brunette was currently too busy with her studies to investigate further.
Suu was being her usual energetic self, and ShinobuÆs cooking was as excellent as ever.
Keitaro declared that heÆd finished his meal and stood up. ôIÆve got something to attend to this morning, so if you need me for anything, itÆll have to wait until this afternoon.ö
ôWhat are you going to be doing?ö Naru asked.
ôIÆve got to talk with Haruka about something,ö the ronin said, hoping that Naru wouldnÆt press further.
The brunette turned to Kitsune, someone who would often press Keitaro for information. Kitsune surprised her by just shrugging.
Keitaro missed the nonverbal exchange and thanked Shinobu for the meal. ôIÆll be back as soon as I can.ö
ôI-itÆs ok, Sempai,ö the chef blushed.
After Keitaro left the table, Naru turned back to Kitsune. ôIs everything alright, Kitsune? Normally youÆd have gotten every little detail out of Keitaro.ö
Motoko realised that KitsuneÆs situation was about to be revealed and decided to act. ôWe donÆt need to know every detail about KeitaroÆs life, Naru-sempai.ö
ôWhat if it affects us? DonÆt we have a right to know?ö
ôOf course we do, but if thereÆs a problem, Keitaro will tell us,ö the kendoist replied.
ôYeah,ö Kitsune nodded before finishing her coffee.
ôSomething feels suspicious on thisàö Naru decided, her eyes narrowing. ôAlmost as if youÆre plotting somethingàö
ôItÆs no good, Motoko-chan,ö Kitsune sighed. ôNaruÆs seen through our faþade. We were going to have to come out of the closet sooner or later.ö
ôC-come out?ö the brunette asked, her jaw dropping.
ôYes, you see, Motoko-chan and I are lovers.ö
Motoko started to splutter. ôK-Kitsune! What are you saying?!ö
ôItÆs no good, Motoko-chan, we canÆt keep lying to our friends like this. I thought that Naru-chan would understand why I like it when you wear that strap-onàö
Naru blushed as the dots were joined. ôK-Kitsuneàö
ôWhy do you think I was always checking your chests for size?ö the ash-blonde asked, her face still straight as she laid on the act. ôI was waiting for someone to get to the right size. And Motoko reached that size a few weeks ago.ö
ôM-my chest hasnÆt changed recently!ö Motoko insisted. ôAnd I donÆt have a strap-on, whatever one of those is!ö
The brunette quickly realised that her friend was playing a joke on her to prove a point. ôAlright, I shouldnÆt have tried to pry into KeitaroÆs affairs. But still, donÆt you think that something feels different?ö
ôMaybe, but perhaps itÆs just a change in the weather?ö Kitsune suggested.
ôErrà Kitsune-sempaiàö Shinobu hesitantly spoke up. ôWhatÆs a-ö
ôItÆs not something you need to worry about, Shinobu-chan,ö the sake-loving girl replied, cutting off the question.
@@@@@
Keitaro knocked on the door to HarukaÆs place. He hoped that he wasnÆt bothering her too much, but when he noticed that the curtain for the window that looked directly over the door had moved, he winced.
There was a wait of several minutes, but a sleepy looking Haruka opened the door to let him in.
ôSorry about this, Haruka-san, but I needed to talk to someone about this.ö
ôFine, you can make me breakfast,ö the smoker grumbled.
ôOf course,ö Keitaro nodded. ôWould you like some coffee?ö
ôPlease,ö Haruka said around a yawn. She watched Keitaro prepare some breakfast with an unusual focus. ôSo, whatÆs so important that you have to wake me up this early on my day off?ö
ôIà itÆs about Kitsune. She came to visit me this morning.ö
Haruka reached into the pockets of her dressing gown and frowned for a moment.
ôIs something wrong?ö
ôNo, I justà IÆm just used to carrying cigarettes around in my pockets. I forgot I donÆt keep any in my dressing gown. So, Kitsune visited you first thing this morning, did she?ö the smoker smirked.
Keitaro poured two cups of coffee and handed one to his cousin. ôErr, yeah. She fell on top of me.ö
ôThanks,ö Haruka savoured the warmth of the cup for a moment. ôSo, did you like having Kitsune on top of you?ö
ôIt wasnÆt like that! Motokoàö the ronin paused as he realised that he was making it worse. ôMotoko helped Kitsune off me. And kind of accidentally opened the kimono Kitsune was wearing. I didnÆt have my glasses on, so I couldnÆt see anything.ö
ôOk. So whatÆs the problem? If Kitsune was going to a guyÆs room dressed in only a kimono, she expected to be seen naked by that guy.ö
ôYeah, butàö Keitaro trailed off as the food finished cooking. He plated it up and handed it to Haruka. ôLook, KitsuneÆs a friend, right? I canÆt let a friend down like that, but I canÆt afford to let her stay for free.ö
ôDidnÆt we decide that you should get engaged to her?ö Haruka shrugged before digging into her breakfast. ôThis is good, Keitaro. I might have to draft you in for busy periods.ö
ôThanks,ö Keitaro nodded his head before drinking some of his coffee. ôBut how can I trust Kitsune, Haruka?ö
ôShe didnÆt want to hurt you, Keitaro.ö
ôI know, but to just come out with a load of lies like thatàö
ôShe was desperate. Desperate people often have to take desperate measures,ö the smoker replied. She moved her head and let out a yelp of pain.
ôIs something wrong?ö
ôItÆs my neck; I must have slept funny last night. I donÆt suppose youÆd be willing to help make it better, would you?ö
Keitaro nodded and moved to behind where Haruka was sitting. He rubbed his hands together before massaging his cousinÆs neck. ôLet me know if itÆs too hard.ö
æIf Kitsune heard thatàÆ Haruka thought, a knowing smile forming on her lips. ôOohà that feels goodàö
The ronin smiled, the knowledge that heÆd helped someone had improved his mood.
ôYou know,ö Haruka said, her eyes closed as she felt the soreness worked away, ôif things had been different I might have put the moves on you.ö
That caused Keitaro to stop immediately. ôW-what?ö
The smoker clenched her jaw as she realised that sheÆd let her something slip. ôI said, æcan you move down between the shoulder blades?Æö
ôOh, sorry, my mind was wandering; I thought you said something else.ö
Haruka just smiled as she continued to feel conflicted about the situation. How could she tell him how she felt? What would Keitaro do if he found out she had often wondered what would have happened if theyÆd been closer in age or their ages were reversed?
SheÆd enjoyed it when heÆd touched her breasts. It had only been the side and clearly accidental contact, but it had made her feel wanted again. The fact that it had been Keitaro touching her just made it more exciting.
æIf onlyàÆ
As inexperienced as he was, Keitaro noticed that something was wrong. ôHaruka-san, Ià Is something wrong?ö he asked as he took his hands off her neck.
ôIàö There was a knock on the door, cutting the spinster off. ôIÆll get that.ö
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Motoko stood nervously at HarukaÆs door. She wanted to help Kitsune, but had no clue what to do. She needed advice, and of all the people she knew, Haruka had the most life experience.
The door opened and Haruka poked her head around it. ôMotoko-chan, what can I do for you?ö
ôIà I need some advice. I think one of my friends is in trouble.ö
Haruka sighed. ôHow much trouble?ö
ôQuite a lotàö the kendoist answered with a wince.
In this sort of situation, the friend who needed help was more often than not fictitious and it was the one asking for help who needed it. The degree of separation reduced the embarrassment enough for the request to be made.
Haruka sighed again. It was just not going to be her day. ôCome on in, but I canÆt promise to be any help.ö
ôThank you, Haruka-san,ö Motoko bowed politely before stepping inside. She noticed that there was a pair of shoes of masculine styling. ôI didnÆt know you had company, Haruka-san. I didnÆt mean to intrude.ö
ôItÆs fine, Motoko-chan. Now, whatÆs the problem with æyour friendÆ?ö
ôIà donÆt want to betray her confidence, but I think that sheÆs got some sort of financial hardship.ö
ôFinancial hardship?ö
ôY-yesàö
ôAre youÆre talking about Kitsune, Motoko-chan?ö Haruka asked, her gaze fixing her friend in place.
ôIàI canÆt really sayàö the kendoist said, hoping that she was doing the right thing.
ôIf youÆre talking about Kitsune losing her job, I know. So does Keitaro.ö
ôOhàö Motoko relaxed slightly.
ôIn fact, KeitaroÆs here now, hoping to get some idea of what to do about her. He also told me about this morning,ö Haruka explained.
ôSo, what can we do to help Kitsune? I donÆt want her to be evicted.ö
ôWell, KitsuneÆs options for staying at the Inn are: for her to get another job or for her toà well, you saw what she was trying for this morning.ö
The kendoist blushed as she recalled the compromising situation sheÆd encountered that morning. ôWe should help her find a new job.ö
ôSo you donÆt approve of Keitaro and Kitsune getting hitched? Are you jealous of Kitsune?ö
ôN-no,ö the raven-haired tsundere insisted.
ôThen youÆre jealous of Keitaro?ö Haruka teased.
ôWhat?ö
ôIÆm seeing if youÆre paying attention, Motoko-chan. So, why donÆt you want Keitaro and Kitsune to have a serious relationship?ö
ôIà I donÆt know,ö Motoko replied weakly.
Haruka sighed. ôLook, Motoko-chan, we both know that KitsuneÆs quite the joker. She likes to tease, flirt and generally cause mischief for her own amusement.ö
ôIÆll sayàö
ôBut that still doesnÆt mean she doesnÆt deserve a chance at an adult relationship. Especially if this person will take care of her.ö
The kendoist looked sceptical. ôButàö
ôYouÆre worried about her feelings being genuine, arenÆt you?ö the smoker asked.
ôYesà I donÆt want to see people I care about getting hurt,ö Motoko said.
ôNeither do I, Motoko-chan. But whatÆs going to convince you that theyÆre both serious about this?ö
ôIà I donÆt knowàö
ôThen what do you know, Motoko? IÆm not trying to be difficult here; I want to help my friends too. I canÆt offer Kitsune a job, and unless you can find her one, I think we know where that leaves us, donÆt you?ö Haruka commented.
ôI suppose that Mitsune-sempai knows what sheÆs doingàö Motoko admitted. ôButàö
ôLook, KeitaroÆs here if you want to talk to him.ö
ôHaruka, who is it?ö Keitaro asked as he appeared. ôOh, Motoko-chan, IÆll give you some privacy.ö
ôNot so fast, Keitaro; MotokoÆs got something she wants to say to you.ö
ôI do?ö the kendoist asked, suddenly finding her fingers most interesting.
ôYes, you do,ö Haruka said in a stern tone.
ôOh, rightà Keitaro, itÆs about Mitsune-sempaiàö
ôI know that sheÆs just lost her job, Motoko-chan,ö the ronin interrupted. ôIÆm not about to kick her out into the street.ö
ôI appreciate that, Keitaro, but how long can you wait for her to get another job?ö Motoko asked. ôShe could be out of work for months.ö
ôWhat do you want me to do?ö Keitaro asked. ôDo you want me to let her stay for free for six months? Until this time next year? What about the rest of you? If IÆm letting Kitsune stay for free, why not the rest of you?ö
ôCalm down, Keitaro,ö Haruka said as she reached out and put a hand on his shoulder.
ôSorry, itÆs just that I canÆt help but feel that weÆre going round and round in circles here. None of us really know what to do here.ö Keitaro sighed. ôLook, Kitsune is my friend. I like her, I like all of you and IÆd be saddened if any of you left.ö
ôI appreciate that, Keitaro, butàö Motoko took a deep breath. ôMitsune-sempai was willing to have a serious relationship with you in order to stay.ö
ôI know, Motoko-chan, but I canÆt help but feel that sheÆd just be going out with me to get free rent and meals,ö the bespectacled Urashima sighed. He scratched his head. ôDamn it, that makes her sound like a horrible, callous person.ö
ôBut she was willing to get married to you to stay at the Inn,ö Haruka countered. ôShe wouldnÆt have considered it if she didnÆt like you. For all her flirting, Kitsune doesnÆt sleep around with just anyone.ö
Motoko looked between the two Urashimas. ôWait, have you discussed this with Mitsune-sempai?ö
A knock at the door cut off any answer.
ôBe right back,ö the smoker grimaced.
@@@@@
Mitsune was not sure what she expected her friend to do to help her. Haruka had been the one to suggest that she get together with Keitaro, and a plan had been worked out.
Of course, Keitaro had initially gone along with this cunning plan and believed the fabrication, thanks to her performance.
But Keitaro, while a nice guy, wasnÆt a complete idiot and had questioned certain things, leading him to figure out that it was a lie.
Haruka hadnÆt been too sympathetic when the truth had come out, but at least she was being discrete.
Harukaà
Haruka was not like any of KitsuneÆs other friends. Kitsune often joked, went out drinking and generally set the world to rights with her. There was also something else about Haruka that Kitsune liked.
It had taken a little while for the ash-blonde to figure out, but she did eventually realise that she had a bit of a crush on her friend. It wasnÆt full on lesbianism, as Kitsune knew what she liked in a man, but she certainly wouldnÆt have objected to a threesome with Haruka if thatÆs the way an evening panned out.
Kitsune knocked on the door to the teahouse and took a deep breath.
Haruka opened the door and waved her in. ôThe more the merrier.ö
ôWhat do you?ö the sake-loving girl asked as she saw Keitaro and Motoko inside. ôOh. Hi guys, what brings you here?ö
ôIà I was concerned about you, Mitsune-sempai,ö Motoko said, looking rather apologetic about discussing a private matter.
ôIÆm still trying to figure what to do about you,ö Keitaro shrugged. ôWe keep going round and round in circles, but I still canÆt decide what the right thing to do is.ö
Haruka closed the door and shook her head. ôIÆll put the kettle on and we can talk about this in a civilised manner.ö
The quartet walked into the teahouse proper and took up seats around the bar.
ôRight,ö Haruka said as she started to heat up some water. ôKitsune wants to stay at the Inn, but sheÆs just lost her job. Unless someone can find her a new job, sheÆll have to leave the Inn.ö
ôI donÆt want her to leave,ö Motoko said. ôYouÆre my friend, Mitsune-sempai, and I donÆt want to see you hurt.ö
ôNo-one wants to see Kitsune hurt,ö Keitaro sighed. ôIà If things had been different, I would have gotten engaged or married to you, Kitsune. But I know you donÆt have those kinds of feelings for me. I like you a lot, but I canÆt have a relationship like that.ö
Kitsune looked down. She felt terrible. She knew sheÆd screwed up big time and, as Keitaro had pointed out, things had gone different, sheÆd have her solution.
And it wasnÆt like Keitaro was a bad choice for a husband. He was working to get into Toudai; he was going to inherit the Inn; he was kind, considerate and genuine. Hell, all this introspection was beginning to make her wonder if she should spend some time with him.
Alone time.
ôIÆm sorry, Keitaro. I didnÆt mean to lie to you, but what else could I do?ö
ôItÆs alright, Kitsune, I forgive you,ö the ronin smiled.
The kettle boiled and Haruka poured out some tea for everyone.
ôAs happy as I am that the people I care about now friends, I have to ask what are we going to do?ö asked the smoker. ôI donÆt have the space for a long term roommate.ö
ôKitsune, I canÆt afford to pay you any money, but I can sort of offer you a job,ö Keitaro said calmly. ôItÆd be helping around the Inn. YouÆd be helping out with the day to day running. I donÆt mean repairs and maintenance, but things like the cooking and cleaning.ö
ôIÆd be working for room and board?ö Kitsune asked, unsure of how she felt about that.
ôIf he could afford to pay you, he would,ö Haruka said, giving her friend a glare. ôAnd this would only be until you found another job, right, Keitaro?ö
ôYeah, of course it is,ö the young man nodded.
ôItÆs a fair deal,ö Motoko opined. ôThis way everyone is happy and thereÆs nothing that could beà called into question.ö
Kitsune considered the offer. æI was hoping to avoid work, but I suppose that helping out around the place wonÆt kill me.Æ
ôOk, I accept your generous offer,ö she bowed politely. ôYouÆre notàö
A theatrical cough from Haruka cut off the short-haired girlÆs cheeky question about wearing a maidÆs uniform.
ôIÆm glad that weÆve got that all settled. Now, if youÆll excuse me, I want to get dressed,ö Haruka said as she left for her bedroom.
ôThank you, Keitaro,ö Kitsune smiled warmly. ôI really appreciate this.ö
ôItÆs alright, Kitsune,ö Keitaro replied. He turned to Motoko, who was nodding in approval. ôIs everything alright with you, Motoko-chan?ö
ôYes,ö the kendoist nodded. ôI also wanted to thank you, Keitaro-san.ö
ôFor what? IÆd have helped any of you out like this.ö
ôFor notàö Motoko paused as she realised she was about to say something that could easily be considered insulting. ôFor your discretion on this matter.ö
@@@@@
Shinobu wasnÆt surprised to see Kitsune in the kitchen as she started to prepare lunch. What was a surprise was the fact that Kitsune was wearing an apron.
ôKitsune-sempai, is something the matter?ö
ôNo,ö the ash-blonde smiled. ôIt just occurred to me that I donÆt really know how to cook. I thought that you could teach me how to make something a bit more advanced than instant noodles.ö
ôOh, of course I can,ö Shinobu smiled in reply.
ôSo, what are we making today?ö Kitsune asked.
ôGrilled mackerel.ö
@@@@@
To be continuedà
Art Attack
By Lord Raa
@@@@@
Disclaim-me-do: A rakish angle. I like it.
@@@@@
Part 3
@@@@@
Keitaro opened the door to the Inn and saw that Motoko was standing there with a concerned look on her face.
ôIs something up, Motoko-chan?ö
ôIs everything alright? Kitsune seems ratherà distracted by something.ö
Keitaro paused as he tried to word his response. He didnÆt want to lie to Motoko, but he didnÆt want to tell her KitsuneÆs secrets. ôItÆs something that Haruka and I are helping her out with. Hopefully, weÆll have everything sorted in a couple of days, so please bear with us, ok?ö
ôOf course, but if KitsuneÆs in trouble, all she needs to do is ask for my help, and IÆll be there,ö the kendoist replied.
ôIÆll let her know,ö the ronin smiled politely. He let out a yawn. ôSorry, Motoko-chan, but IÆm really tired. IÆm going to turn in now, see you in the morning.ö
ôGood night, Keitaro.ö
Keitaro walked to his room, his gaze focusing on the floorboards. His footsteps and breathing had been the only noise he made on his way to his room.
As he approached his room, he looked up to see that Kitsune was peeking out from behind the door to her room.
ôKeitaroà Iàö
Keitaro let out a sigh as he glanced up at the ash-blondeÆs face, his own expression a blend of fatigue and disappointment. ôWhat is it, Kitsune?ö
ôàö KitsuneÆs eyes opened when she realised that Keitaro knew. ôIà IÆm sorry, Keitaro.ö
ôWeÆll deal with it in the morning, Kitsune, when IÆve got a clear head.ö
ôIà I didnÆt want toàö the ash-blonde trailed off as she reached out for her landlord.
ôI said weÆll deal with it in the morning, Kitsune,ö Keitaro snapped, causing Kitsune to recoil in surprise. ôLook, IÆm too tired to deal with anything that doesnÆt involve me sleeping, ok?ö
ôSorry, Keitaro, IÆll leave you to get some rest.ö
@@@@@
In her room, Kitsune clenched her fists in frustration. She was angry at herself for letting things get so far out of hand.
Angry at herself for needing her best friendÆs help in such a harebrained scheme.
And she was angry at herself for lying to Keitaro like that. Playing him like a fool was still easy pickings, but when heÆd offered to take care of her for the rest of her life, it became clear just how far he was willing to go for her.
ôIf IÆd been a bit more honest, it still could have workedà Shit! I fucked up royally!ö she cursed.
The ash-blonde rubbed her face as she tried to figure out how to get out the hole sheÆd dug for herself.
SheÆd already discounted going home to her parents. Haruka had made it clear that she wasnÆt willing to put her up long term.
The other residents couldnÆt afford to pay her rent, and even if they could, why should they? She lacked the domestic skills to help Shinobu with the chores; she had no fighting skills to help Motoko with her training; and Naru was smart enough to get into Toudai on her own.
That left Su with her crazy experiments.
ôAnd Keitaro,ö she whispered. ôBut why would Keitaro agree to help me now?ö
Sure, if theyÆd been dating for a while and heÆd gotten her pregnant, then heÆd take responsibility. But that wasnÆt going to happen, now that he knew what she was willing to lie about.
She needed help. And there was only one person she could think of.
@@@@@
Haruka glared at her ringing mobile phone. She had decided to let it go to voicemail and continued her eveningÆs drinking.
After another two minutes, the phone started ringing again, causing the smoker to let out a curse.
Reaching over and grabbing the infernal device, she was about to remove the battery until she saw who was calling her.
ôWhat is it, Kitsune?ö
ô¼Ià I need some help, Haruka-san.¼ö
ôAnd just how badly have you screwed up now, Kitsune?ö
ô¼Keitaro knowsà how do I get him to let me stay?¼ö
ôYou seemed willing to put your tits to good use earlier, Kitsune, so let your sweater puppies run free!ö Haruka smirked.
ô¼YouÆre drunk!¼ö
ôAnd why wouldnÆt I be? I mean, I only conspired with my best friend against someone very dear to me. Helped you break his heart. No, canÆt think of a reason why I might need a drink tonight, Kitsune,ö the smoker mocked. She reached for her cigarettes and lit one up. ôOk, so how badly have you screwed up, Kitsune?ö
ô¼I tried to talk to Keitaro when he came back, but he told me to leave him alone,¼ö Kitsune answered.
ôSince you decided that you like living at the Inn, you could wait until morning. Hope that KeitaroÆs calmed down enough to help you with your problem,ö Haruka said before taking a long drag on her cigarette.
ô¼What if he doesnÆt calm down?¼ö
ôWhy wouldnÆt he calm down?ö
ô¼I donÆt know, maybe he hasnÆt had much sleep?¼ö Kitsune suggested. ô¼Maybe weÆve upset him so much he canÆt sleep? He seemed pretty grouchy to me just now.¼ö
ôThen help him relax, Kitsune. ItÆs not like you werenÆt willing to do it with Keitaro,ö Haruka replied. ôUnless that was a lie, tooàö
The ash-blonde swallowed nervously at the change in her friendÆs tone. ô¼No, I still am, butà is it really a good idea to sneak into KeitaroÆs bed? He made it clear that he wanted to get some sleep.¼ö
ôThen let him get his rest, Kitsune. If youÆre that worried about him being in a bad mood, then take care of his morning glory for him.ö
ô¼à¼ö
ôIÆm hanging up now, Kitsune. IÆve given you some advice, itÆs up to you what you do with it. Just make sure you donÆt hurt Keitaro,ö Haruka said as she ended the call.
@@@@@
In her room, Kitsune wondered what she should do. She could sneak into KeitaroÆs bed.
ôNo,ö she said, rejecting that idea. If she was willing to make up a false sexual harassment story about people trying to get her to sleep with them, then just slipping into someoneÆs bed was just going to make her look like the biggest hypocrite in town.
No, sheÆd have to let Keitaro get his sleep.
Of course, that did leave her with what to do in the morning.
Should she visit him first thing and apologise for lying to him?
If so, what should she say? Could she word it so it wasnÆt a pack of lies, but painted her in the best possible light?
Would Keitaro accept her apology?
What if Keitaro told her to leave? He would be well within his rights to tell her to get out and never come back.
What if Keitaro did accept her apology and, by some miracle, agreed to continue with the plan?
The others would never believe that she and Keitaro suddenly fell in love. TheyÆd be suspicious, and quite rightly so. That meant that theyÆd need to have been dating for some time before they could announce an engagement.
How long was suitable? Six weeks? Six months?
Would Keitaro make her get a job to pay the rent arrears and any rent until they got engaged?
What if during their ôdatingö she fell pregnant? Would that speed things up?
That brought up another issue û when would it be ôproperö for her to sleep with Keitaro? She wasnÆt some cheap floozy, but she still needed to make amends with Keitaro.
Would Keitaro force the sex issue? How far would he expect her to go? What if Keitaro wanted to do horribly perverted things with her? Was she willing to let Keitaro tie her up and spank her?
Was she willing to spank Keitaro if thatÆs what he was into?
What if Keitaro wanted to do it outdoors? A kiss and hug in public was one thing, but having sex outdoors?
KitsuneÆs head was spinning with all the questions and doubts. ôWhy did you have to be such a nice guy, Keitaro? I wouldnÆt feel bad about this if you were a jerkàö
Sighing, the ash-blonde pulled out her emergency stash of alcohol and took a long drink of sake. She looked at how much sheÆd drank and it made her grimace, but the sake also made her drowsy. Closing the bottle, she changed out of her clothes and into bed.
@@@@@
The morning came, and KitsuneÆs self-medication hadnÆt helped her sleep. Her mind had gone over the possibilities of how the conversation with Keitaro could go.
They had been boiled down to either Keitaro accepting her apology or rejecting it.
However, both of those options had potential to fork off into unforeseen directions.
If Keitaro accepted her apology, would he still agree to her original plan?
If Keitaro rejected her apology, would he kick her out of the Inn?
The thought of having to move out still scared her. And while moving out of her parentsÆ place had been a big enough adjustment out of her comfort zone, Haruka had been there to help her deal with the change; just like she had with the other tenants.
Except for Suu; he seemed to be an exception to most rules.
Yawning loudly and stretching, the ash-blonde glanced at the clock, barely believing that people could want to be awake at this time.
ôYou better appreciateàö Kitsune trailed off as she realised that she wasnÆt up at this time for KeitaroÆs benefit, but for her own. She shook her head before climbing out of her bed and opening her closet. ôWhatÆs the best thing to wear when apologising?ö she asked rhetorically.
Her eyes roamed the hangers, searching for something suitable. And while there were several outfits that hugged her figure, they were more suited for a night out than first thing in the morning û if any of the other tenants saw her, thereÆd be too many questions.
So that discounted the slinky dresses. And the red silk China dress that was a little tight around the chest whenever she wore a bra. Her beachwear, while alluring, was also something that would raise questions.
ôSleepwear or underwear?ö she asked herself as she alternated her attention between her reflection in the mirror and her underwear draw.
Standing outside KeitaroÆs room in her best lacy underwear would certainly get his attention but, again, there would be awkward questions if she was seen. And judging by the sounds coming from the garden, Motoko was certainly up and about.
Kitsune was about to give this up as a terrible idea, when she spotted her kimono. It wasnÆt a formal kimono, more a piece of cosplay gear that showed off far too much thigh and cleavage to be considered decent.
That was part of her sartorial dilemma resolved. Now the question was what to wear underneath it?
ôWell, I am trying to convince Keitaro to let me stay rent freeàö Kitsune said moments before she took off her sleepwear and slipped her kimono over her naked body.
@@@@@
Keitaro had already put his alarm into snooze mode once that morning. It had taken him a while before heÆd gotten to sleep, thanks to his brain focusing on how to deal with the situation Kitsune had brought about.
Eventually, heÆd given up thinking about and emptied his head of all thoughts about the curvy girl. That had helped him get some sleep, but also had the effect of making him forget why he was upset with the girl.
There was a knock on the door. The urgency was enough to force Keitaro to get out of bed and see who it was without putting on his glasses.
Upon opening the door, the ronin could just about see that it was Kitsune who had gotten him up.
ôK-Kitsune? What is it?ö
ôKeitaroà Iàö the ash-blonde hesitated as she heard footsteps rapidly approaching.
ôKitsune, itÆs early and I canÆt see properly, what is so important that it canÆt wait until IÆve woken up properly?ö Keitaro asked with a sigh.
ôItÆs about yesterdayàö
ôYesterday? What happenedà oh, right, yesterday,ö the visually-impaired youth sighed.
ôIàö Kitsune looked around and saw that it was Motoko who was quickly approaching. Not wanting to explain to her friend why she was standing in KeitaroÆs doorway dressed in a very short and rather inexpertly tied kimono, she pushed the young man into his room.
Unfortunately for the short-haired girl, Keitaro lacked grace, poise and the general ability to stay on his feet and he fell backwards, somehow causing Kitsune to fall on top of him.
Just as Motoko walked past the doorway.
ôW-whatÆs going on here?ö the kendoist asked, aghast at the compromising situation before.
ôI fell,ö Keitaro insisted.
Motoko was a little sceptical, but reasoned that if Keitaro was planning something perverted, heÆd have arranged to land on top of Kitsune. Having decided that it was either an accident or Kitsune trying to get out of paying her rent on time, she reached forward and lifted the sake-loving girl off their hapless landlord.
It was then that the kimono finally relented in its struggle to maintain KitsuneÆs modesty and fell open, revealing her large, creamy white breasts.
The kendoist saw that Keitaro was getting quite the view and panicked, but she slipped and somehow managed to cause Kitsune to splay her legs lewdly.
ôK-Kitsune, y-youÆreàö the scarlet-cheeked Motoko stammered, quickly realising that Keitaro wasnÆt looking at her or Kitsune and decided that bringing his attention to the indecent exposure was a bad idea. Silently, she dragged her nearly naked friend away.
The fact that Keitaro still being half-asleep meant that he only just realised what had happened and that heÆd missed the show Kitsune had put on. Of course, if heÆd been wearing his glasses, heÆd have seen everything.
That thought made him blush furiously, almost as much at Motoko.
ôNow what do I do about Kitsune?ö he asked rhetorically.
@@@@@
In her room, Mitsune was being chastised by Motoko for her actions.
ôMitsune-sempai, just why were you going to see Keitaro dressed like that?ö the kendoist demanded.
ôIà ItÆs nothing to worry about, Motoko-chan,ö Kitsune insisted weakly. ôI know what IÆm doing.ö
ôA-are you and Keitaroàö
ôNo, we are not dating. WeÆre not having guilt-free casual sex, either.ö
ôThen why were you visiting Keitaro dressed likeà that?ö Motoko demanded. ôYouÆre naked under your kimono. You wanted something from him, what was it?ö
ôMaybe I just wanted him?ö Kitsune winked teasingly.
ôàö Motoko shook her head. ôItÆs not my place to judge you, Mitsune-sempai.ö
ôBut you are anyway, Motoko,ö the ash-blonde countered. ôBut before you do, thereÆs something you should know.ö
Kitsune handed her friend the letter from her publisher.
ôOhà Kitsune, you should have said something!ö the kendoist said, throwing her arms around her.
ôYeah, butà these things are hard to talk about some times.ö
Motoko nodded. Pride was a powerful influence on a personÆs actions. It could make you ignore good advice and lead you into a disaster just as easily as it could motivate you to improve yourself.
ôCould you keep this a secret?ö Kitsune asked. ôItÆs a big shock and I still donÆt know what IÆm going to do about this just yet.ö
ôI will, Kitsune, and I will help you as best I can, but my allowance wonÆt cover anotherÆs rent here.ö
ôItÆs ok, Motoko-chan, IÆll figure something out.ö
@@@@@
During breakfast, Naru noticed that something seemed off. Keitaro seemed to be walking on eggshells around Kitsune. He wasnÆt shunning her, just trying to avoid anything that could be misconstrued by Motoko.
And Motoko seemed to be alternating her attention between Keitaro and Kitsune.
It seemed a bit odd, but the brunette was currently too busy with her studies to investigate further.
Suu was being her usual energetic self, and ShinobuÆs cooking was as excellent as ever.
Keitaro declared that heÆd finished his meal and stood up. ôIÆve got something to attend to this morning, so if you need me for anything, itÆll have to wait until this afternoon.ö
ôWhat are you going to be doing?ö Naru asked.
ôIÆve got to talk with Haruka about something,ö the ronin said, hoping that Naru wouldnÆt press further.
The brunette turned to Kitsune, someone who would often press Keitaro for information. Kitsune surprised her by just shrugging.
Keitaro missed the nonverbal exchange and thanked Shinobu for the meal. ôIÆll be back as soon as I can.ö
ôI-itÆs ok, Sempai,ö the chef blushed.
After Keitaro left the table, Naru turned back to Kitsune. ôIs everything alright, Kitsune? Normally youÆd have gotten every little detail out of Keitaro.ö
Motoko realised that KitsuneÆs situation was about to be revealed and decided to act. ôWe donÆt need to know every detail about KeitaroÆs life, Naru-sempai.ö
ôWhat if it affects us? DonÆt we have a right to know?ö
ôOf course we do, but if thereÆs a problem, Keitaro will tell us,ö the kendoist replied.
ôYeah,ö Kitsune nodded before finishing her coffee.
ôSomething feels suspicious on thisàö Naru decided, her eyes narrowing. ôAlmost as if youÆre plotting somethingàö
ôItÆs no good, Motoko-chan,ö Kitsune sighed. ôNaruÆs seen through our faþade. We were going to have to come out of the closet sooner or later.ö
ôC-come out?ö the brunette asked, her jaw dropping.
ôYes, you see, Motoko-chan and I are lovers.ö
Motoko started to splutter. ôK-Kitsune! What are you saying?!ö
ôItÆs no good, Motoko-chan, we canÆt keep lying to our friends like this. I thought that Naru-chan would understand why I like it when you wear that strap-onàö
Naru blushed as the dots were joined. ôK-Kitsuneàö
ôWhy do you think I was always checking your chests for size?ö the ash-blonde asked, her face still straight as she laid on the act. ôI was waiting for someone to get to the right size. And Motoko reached that size a few weeks ago.ö
ôM-my chest hasnÆt changed recently!ö Motoko insisted. ôAnd I donÆt have a strap-on, whatever one of those is!ö
The brunette quickly realised that her friend was playing a joke on her to prove a point. ôAlright, I shouldnÆt have tried to pry into KeitaroÆs affairs. But still, donÆt you think that something feels different?ö
ôMaybe, but perhaps itÆs just a change in the weather?ö Kitsune suggested.
ôErrà Kitsune-sempaiàö Shinobu hesitantly spoke up. ôWhatÆs a-ö
ôItÆs not something you need to worry about, Shinobu-chan,ö the sake-loving girl replied, cutting off the question.
@@@@@
Keitaro knocked on the door to HarukaÆs place. He hoped that he wasnÆt bothering her too much, but when he noticed that the curtain for the window that looked directly over the door had moved, he winced.
There was a wait of several minutes, but a sleepy looking Haruka opened the door to let him in.
ôSorry about this, Haruka-san, but I needed to talk to someone about this.ö
ôFine, you can make me breakfast,ö the smoker grumbled.
ôOf course,ö Keitaro nodded. ôWould you like some coffee?ö
ôPlease,ö Haruka said around a yawn. She watched Keitaro prepare some breakfast with an unusual focus. ôSo, whatÆs so important that you have to wake me up this early on my day off?ö
ôIà itÆs about Kitsune. She came to visit me this morning.ö
Haruka reached into the pockets of her dressing gown and frowned for a moment.
ôIs something wrong?ö
ôNo, I justà IÆm just used to carrying cigarettes around in my pockets. I forgot I donÆt keep any in my dressing gown. So, Kitsune visited you first thing this morning, did she?ö the smoker smirked.
Keitaro poured two cups of coffee and handed one to his cousin. ôErr, yeah. She fell on top of me.ö
ôThanks,ö Haruka savoured the warmth of the cup for a moment. ôSo, did you like having Kitsune on top of you?ö
ôIt wasnÆt like that! Motokoàö the ronin paused as he realised that he was making it worse. ôMotoko helped Kitsune off me. And kind of accidentally opened the kimono Kitsune was wearing. I didnÆt have my glasses on, so I couldnÆt see anything.ö
ôOk. So whatÆs the problem? If Kitsune was going to a guyÆs room dressed in only a kimono, she expected to be seen naked by that guy.ö
ôYeah, butàö Keitaro trailed off as the food finished cooking. He plated it up and handed it to Haruka. ôLook, KitsuneÆs a friend, right? I canÆt let a friend down like that, but I canÆt afford to let her stay for free.ö
ôDidnÆt we decide that you should get engaged to her?ö Haruka shrugged before digging into her breakfast. ôThis is good, Keitaro. I might have to draft you in for busy periods.ö
ôThanks,ö Keitaro nodded his head before drinking some of his coffee. ôBut how can I trust Kitsune, Haruka?ö
ôShe didnÆt want to hurt you, Keitaro.ö
ôI know, but to just come out with a load of lies like thatàö
ôShe was desperate. Desperate people often have to take desperate measures,ö the smoker replied. She moved her head and let out a yelp of pain.
ôIs something wrong?ö
ôItÆs my neck; I must have slept funny last night. I donÆt suppose youÆd be willing to help make it better, would you?ö
Keitaro nodded and moved to behind where Haruka was sitting. He rubbed his hands together before massaging his cousinÆs neck. ôLet me know if itÆs too hard.ö
æIf Kitsune heard thatàÆ Haruka thought, a knowing smile forming on her lips. ôOohà that feels goodàö
The ronin smiled, the knowledge that heÆd helped someone had improved his mood.
ôYou know,ö Haruka said, her eyes closed as she felt the soreness worked away, ôif things had been different I might have put the moves on you.ö
That caused Keitaro to stop immediately. ôW-what?ö
The smoker clenched her jaw as she realised that sheÆd let her something slip. ôI said, æcan you move down between the shoulder blades?Æö
ôOh, sorry, my mind was wandering; I thought you said something else.ö
Haruka just smiled as she continued to feel conflicted about the situation. How could she tell him how she felt? What would Keitaro do if he found out she had often wondered what would have happened if theyÆd been closer in age or their ages were reversed?
SheÆd enjoyed it when heÆd touched her breasts. It had only been the side and clearly accidental contact, but it had made her feel wanted again. The fact that it had been Keitaro touching her just made it more exciting.
æIf onlyàÆ
As inexperienced as he was, Keitaro noticed that something was wrong. ôHaruka-san, Ià Is something wrong?ö he asked as he took his hands off her neck.
ôIàö There was a knock on the door, cutting the spinster off. ôIÆll get that.ö
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Motoko stood nervously at HarukaÆs door. She wanted to help Kitsune, but had no clue what to do. She needed advice, and of all the people she knew, Haruka had the most life experience.
The door opened and Haruka poked her head around it. ôMotoko-chan, what can I do for you?ö
ôIà I need some advice. I think one of my friends is in trouble.ö
Haruka sighed. ôHow much trouble?ö
ôQuite a lotàö the kendoist answered with a wince.
In this sort of situation, the friend who needed help was more often than not fictitious and it was the one asking for help who needed it. The degree of separation reduced the embarrassment enough for the request to be made.
Haruka sighed again. It was just not going to be her day. ôCome on in, but I canÆt promise to be any help.ö
ôThank you, Haruka-san,ö Motoko bowed politely before stepping inside. She noticed that there was a pair of shoes of masculine styling. ôI didnÆt know you had company, Haruka-san. I didnÆt mean to intrude.ö
ôItÆs fine, Motoko-chan. Now, whatÆs the problem with æyour friendÆ?ö
ôIà donÆt want to betray her confidence, but I think that sheÆs got some sort of financial hardship.ö
ôFinancial hardship?ö
ôY-yesàö
ôAre youÆre talking about Kitsune, Motoko-chan?ö Haruka asked, her gaze fixing her friend in place.
ôIàI canÆt really sayàö the kendoist said, hoping that she was doing the right thing.
ôIf youÆre talking about Kitsune losing her job, I know. So does Keitaro.ö
ôOhàö Motoko relaxed slightly.
ôIn fact, KeitaroÆs here now, hoping to get some idea of what to do about her. He also told me about this morning,ö Haruka explained.
ôSo, what can we do to help Kitsune? I donÆt want her to be evicted.ö
ôWell, KitsuneÆs options for staying at the Inn are: for her to get another job or for her toà well, you saw what she was trying for this morning.ö
The kendoist blushed as she recalled the compromising situation sheÆd encountered that morning. ôWe should help her find a new job.ö
ôSo you donÆt approve of Keitaro and Kitsune getting hitched? Are you jealous of Kitsune?ö
ôN-no,ö the raven-haired tsundere insisted.
ôThen youÆre jealous of Keitaro?ö Haruka teased.
ôWhat?ö
ôIÆm seeing if youÆre paying attention, Motoko-chan. So, why donÆt you want Keitaro and Kitsune to have a serious relationship?ö
ôIà I donÆt know,ö Motoko replied weakly.
Haruka sighed. ôLook, Motoko-chan, we both know that KitsuneÆs quite the joker. She likes to tease, flirt and generally cause mischief for her own amusement.ö
ôIÆll sayàö
ôBut that still doesnÆt mean she doesnÆt deserve a chance at an adult relationship. Especially if this person will take care of her.ö
The kendoist looked sceptical. ôButàö
ôYouÆre worried about her feelings being genuine, arenÆt you?ö the smoker asked.
ôYesà I donÆt want to see people I care about getting hurt,ö Motoko said.
ôNeither do I, Motoko-chan. But whatÆs going to convince you that theyÆre both serious about this?ö
ôIà I donÆt knowàö
ôThen what do you know, Motoko? IÆm not trying to be difficult here; I want to help my friends too. I canÆt offer Kitsune a job, and unless you can find her one, I think we know where that leaves us, donÆt you?ö Haruka commented.
ôI suppose that Mitsune-sempai knows what sheÆs doingàö Motoko admitted. ôButàö
ôLook, KeitaroÆs here if you want to talk to him.ö
ôHaruka, who is it?ö Keitaro asked as he appeared. ôOh, Motoko-chan, IÆll give you some privacy.ö
ôNot so fast, Keitaro; MotokoÆs got something she wants to say to you.ö
ôI do?ö the kendoist asked, suddenly finding her fingers most interesting.
ôYes, you do,ö Haruka said in a stern tone.
ôOh, rightà Keitaro, itÆs about Mitsune-sempaiàö
ôI know that sheÆs just lost her job, Motoko-chan,ö the ronin interrupted. ôIÆm not about to kick her out into the street.ö
ôI appreciate that, Keitaro, but how long can you wait for her to get another job?ö Motoko asked. ôShe could be out of work for months.ö
ôWhat do you want me to do?ö Keitaro asked. ôDo you want me to let her stay for free for six months? Until this time next year? What about the rest of you? If IÆm letting Kitsune stay for free, why not the rest of you?ö
ôCalm down, Keitaro,ö Haruka said as she reached out and put a hand on his shoulder.
ôSorry, itÆs just that I canÆt help but feel that weÆre going round and round in circles here. None of us really know what to do here.ö Keitaro sighed. ôLook, Kitsune is my friend. I like her, I like all of you and IÆd be saddened if any of you left.ö
ôI appreciate that, Keitaro, butàö Motoko took a deep breath. ôMitsune-sempai was willing to have a serious relationship with you in order to stay.ö
ôI know, Motoko-chan, but I canÆt help but feel that sheÆd just be going out with me to get free rent and meals,ö the bespectacled Urashima sighed. He scratched his head. ôDamn it, that makes her sound like a horrible, callous person.ö
ôBut she was willing to get married to you to stay at the Inn,ö Haruka countered. ôShe wouldnÆt have considered it if she didnÆt like you. For all her flirting, Kitsune doesnÆt sleep around with just anyone.ö
Motoko looked between the two Urashimas. ôWait, have you discussed this with Mitsune-sempai?ö
A knock at the door cut off any answer.
ôBe right back,ö the smoker grimaced.
@@@@@
Mitsune was not sure what she expected her friend to do to help her. Haruka had been the one to suggest that she get together with Keitaro, and a plan had been worked out.
Of course, Keitaro had initially gone along with this cunning plan and believed the fabrication, thanks to her performance.
But Keitaro, while a nice guy, wasnÆt a complete idiot and had questioned certain things, leading him to figure out that it was a lie.
Haruka hadnÆt been too sympathetic when the truth had come out, but at least she was being discrete.
Harukaà
Haruka was not like any of KitsuneÆs other friends. Kitsune often joked, went out drinking and generally set the world to rights with her. There was also something else about Haruka that Kitsune liked.
It had taken a little while for the ash-blonde to figure out, but she did eventually realise that she had a bit of a crush on her friend. It wasnÆt full on lesbianism, as Kitsune knew what she liked in a man, but she certainly wouldnÆt have objected to a threesome with Haruka if thatÆs the way an evening panned out.
Kitsune knocked on the door to the teahouse and took a deep breath.
Haruka opened the door and waved her in. ôThe more the merrier.ö
ôWhat do you?ö the sake-loving girl asked as she saw Keitaro and Motoko inside. ôOh. Hi guys, what brings you here?ö
ôIà I was concerned about you, Mitsune-sempai,ö Motoko said, looking rather apologetic about discussing a private matter.
ôIÆm still trying to figure what to do about you,ö Keitaro shrugged. ôWe keep going round and round in circles, but I still canÆt decide what the right thing to do is.ö
Haruka closed the door and shook her head. ôIÆll put the kettle on and we can talk about this in a civilised manner.ö
The quartet walked into the teahouse proper and took up seats around the bar.
ôRight,ö Haruka said as she started to heat up some water. ôKitsune wants to stay at the Inn, but sheÆs just lost her job. Unless someone can find her a new job, sheÆll have to leave the Inn.ö
ôI donÆt want her to leave,ö Motoko said. ôYouÆre my friend, Mitsune-sempai, and I donÆt want to see you hurt.ö
ôNo-one wants to see Kitsune hurt,ö Keitaro sighed. ôIà If things had been different, I would have gotten engaged or married to you, Kitsune. But I know you donÆt have those kinds of feelings for me. I like you a lot, but I canÆt have a relationship like that.ö
Kitsune looked down. She felt terrible. She knew sheÆd screwed up big time and, as Keitaro had pointed out, things had gone different, sheÆd have her solution.
And it wasnÆt like Keitaro was a bad choice for a husband. He was working to get into Toudai; he was going to inherit the Inn; he was kind, considerate and genuine. Hell, all this introspection was beginning to make her wonder if she should spend some time with him.
Alone time.
ôIÆm sorry, Keitaro. I didnÆt mean to lie to you, but what else could I do?ö
ôItÆs alright, Kitsune, I forgive you,ö the ronin smiled.
The kettle boiled and Haruka poured out some tea for everyone.
ôAs happy as I am that the people I care about now friends, I have to ask what are we going to do?ö asked the smoker. ôI donÆt have the space for a long term roommate.ö
ôKitsune, I canÆt afford to pay you any money, but I can sort of offer you a job,ö Keitaro said calmly. ôItÆd be helping around the Inn. YouÆd be helping out with the day to day running. I donÆt mean repairs and maintenance, but things like the cooking and cleaning.ö
ôIÆd be working for room and board?ö Kitsune asked, unsure of how she felt about that.
ôIf he could afford to pay you, he would,ö Haruka said, giving her friend a glare. ôAnd this would only be until you found another job, right, Keitaro?ö
ôYeah, of course it is,ö the young man nodded.
ôItÆs a fair deal,ö Motoko opined. ôThis way everyone is happy and thereÆs nothing that could beà called into question.ö
Kitsune considered the offer. æI was hoping to avoid work, but I suppose that helping out around the place wonÆt kill me.Æ
ôOk, I accept your generous offer,ö she bowed politely. ôYouÆre notàö
A theatrical cough from Haruka cut off the short-haired girlÆs cheeky question about wearing a maidÆs uniform.
ôIÆm glad that weÆve got that all settled. Now, if youÆll excuse me, I want to get dressed,ö Haruka said as she left for her bedroom.
ôThank you, Keitaro,ö Kitsune smiled warmly. ôI really appreciate this.ö
ôItÆs alright, Kitsune,ö Keitaro replied. He turned to Motoko, who was nodding in approval. ôIs everything alright with you, Motoko-chan?ö
ôYes,ö the kendoist nodded. ôI also wanted to thank you, Keitaro-san.ö
ôFor what? IÆd have helped any of you out like this.ö
ôFor notàö Motoko paused as she realised she was about to say something that could easily be considered insulting. ôFor your discretion on this matter.ö
@@@@@
Shinobu wasnÆt surprised to see Kitsune in the kitchen as she started to prepare lunch. What was a surprise was the fact that Kitsune was wearing an apron.
ôKitsune-sempai, is something the matter?ö
ôNo,ö the ash-blonde smiled. ôIt just occurred to me that I donÆt really know how to cook. I thought that you could teach me how to make something a bit more advanced than instant noodles.ö
ôOh, of course I can,ö Shinobu smiled in reply.
ôSo, what are we making today?ö Kitsune asked.
ôGrilled mackerel.ö
@@@@@
To be continuedà
Art Attack
They are both good stories, but the differing tones make them still feel like two different fics instead of one whole. Maybe if Naru had wondered if Mitsune found out about Keitaro's job and that accounted for her change in behavior, or if Mitsune asked about the possibility of her getting signed on to his publisher they would feel more connected, but right now they still read like two idependent stories rather than a blended whole.
They are both good stories, but the differing tones make them still feel like two different fics instead of one whole. Maybe if Naru had wondered if Mitsune found out about Keitaro's job and that accounted for her change in behavior, or if Mitsune asked about the possibility of her getting signed on to his publisher they would feel more connected, but right now they still read like two idependent stories rather than a blended whole.
Art Attack
Ah. Been in similar circumstances there, so I know how that can affect someone.
Well at this point, I'd say to take a step back from this project for a bit. Possibly after the wedding, and then look at how to properly mesh the two stories together. I can identify that part of the issue was how the stories didn't really transition into one another, but the other factor is how one half affects the other.
As I said though, a breather from this might do you some good.
Ah. Been in similar circumstances there, so I know how that can affect someone.
Well at this point, I'd say to take a step back from this project for a bit. Possibly after the wedding, and then look at how to properly mesh the two stories together. I can identify that part of the issue was how the stories didn't really transition into one another, but the other factor is how one half affects the other.
As I said though, a breather from this might do you some good.
Art Attack
Interesting that you merged the two stories.
I can see the similarities between the two, there's a few bumps that need ironing out but it should work out nicely. Especially if you go down the writing approach.
Lets hope that the Tsuruko and Haruka section still makes an appearance.
The train scene was gold.
Interesting that you merged the two stories.
I can see the similarities between the two, there's a few bumps that need ironing out but it should work out nicely. Especially if you go down the writing approach.
Lets hope that the Tsuruko and Haruka section still makes an appearance.
The train scene was gold.
Art Attack
Art Attack
By Lord Raa
@@@@@
Disclaim-me-do: ItÆs just a pint of ice cream.
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Part 4
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Over the next couple of days, things seemed to be going well for Kitsune and her newfound, though currently clandestine, role at the Hinata Sou.
Shinobu was glad to have someone helping her. Sure, Kitsune wasnÆt exactly thrilled to be peeling vegetables or washing rice, but it did mean that meal preparation times were reduced and KitsuneÆs help was more practical than KaollaÆs.
The princess often tried to spice things up if Shinobu wasnÆt keeping an eye on her. Not to mention the attempts to include bananas in every meal.
As part of KitsuneÆs domestic training, she was being taken grocery shopping. It was a new experience for her. She was used to shopping for clothes and booze, sure, but it was different when youÆre looking for freshness in fruit, vegetables and fish.
Out of the corner of her eye, the ash-blonde caught a glimpse of someone who looked like a taller, older version of Motoko catching a bus.
Shinobu calling out to her stopped her from following up.
ôKitsune-sempai, over here!ö
æWeird, though I suppose that it could be MotokoÆs sisteràÆ Kitsune mused. ôComing, Shinobu-chan.ö
@@@@@
The doorbell to the Hinata Sou rang, causing Motoko Aoyama to take a detour from her original plan to get a drink from the kitchen.
Normally, Keitaro would have answered the door, however he felt that heÆd been neglecting both his studies and part time job over the last few days and asked not to be disturbed for the next few hours.
When the young Aoyama opened the door, she was greeted by the unexpected sight of her sister, Tsuruko standing there.
ôAneue! Motoko squeaked loudly, beads of sweat forming on her brow. ôWhat brings you here?ö
ôItÆs you, strangely enough, Motoko-han. Mother was concerned about your letters,ö the elder sister explained.
ôM-my letters?ö
ôYes, you see, a while ago, your letters were filled with angry comments about your new landlord, Keitaro Urashima. However, in your last three letters, you havenÆt mentioned him at all,ö Tsuruko explained. ôMother has asked me to investigate.ö
ôInvestigate?ö Motoko asked, confused by her sisterÆs comments.
ôYes, she was worried that youÆd accidentally killed Urashima-san.ö
ôKILLED? No, itÆs nothing like that at all! In factàö the younger sister swallowed nervously. Out of the corner of her eye, she caught a glimpse of the man in question. ôIn fact, IÆm engaged to Keitaro.ö
TsurukoÆs face remained neutral. ôEngaged? And when were you going to tell your family about this important news?ö
ôIà itÆs a recent thing,ö Motoko lied.
ôAnd what sort of person is Keitaro Urashima? What makes him worthy of you?ö
ôHeÆsà well, heÆs a kind-hearted person and heÆs studying to get into Toudai. Not to mention that heÆs got not one but two jobs. HeÆs going to inherit the Inn one day.ö
ôHe sounds interesting, when can I meet him?ö
ôIà IÆll get him now,ö Motoko said as she walked to KeitaroÆs room. ôKeitaro!ö she called out when she knocked on the door.
There was no reply.
ôOh, it seems that heÆs not in his room. IÆm sure that heÆll be back soon.ö
Then the front door was closed. When the time for someone announcing their return had elapsed, it became immediately clear that someone had planned to sneak out, only for the door to slip out of their hands.
ôAhàö Motoko winced.
ôIndeed,ö Tsuruko replied neutrally. ôIf I wasnÆt so open-minded, I might assume that Keitaro-san is avoiding you.ö
ôWe donÆt know that was Keitaro,ö the younger sister insisted. ôIt could have been Mitsune-sempai, or Naru-sempai.ö
ôLike I said, IÆm open-minded, Motoko-han.ö The elder sister scanned the corridor for signs that people were still in the building. There were none.
Tsuruko thought back to the information Motoko had given them about the various relationships of her friends. She recalled that Keitaro was related to the person who ran the teahouse on the way up the hill.
ôIÆm a little thirsty.ö
ôOh, IÆll make some tea, Aneue.ö
ôOh no, I donÆt want to be a bother, Motoko-han, IÆll just visit the teashop I passed on the way.ö
@@@@@
Haruka looked up to see her cousin slump into a seat by the counter.
ôSomething up, Keitaro?ö
ôYou could say that,ö the ronin sighed.
The smoker winced. She poured Keitaro a cup of coffee. ôWant to tell me about it?ö
ôYeah, but I donÆt know where to begin.ö
ôThe start is usually a good place,ö Haruka deadpanned. ôYou should know that all good stories start at the beginning by now.ö
Keitaro chuckled. ôYeah, I suppose so.ö He took a sip of the coffee to wet his lips, but before he could start, someone else walked into the teashop.
ôOne moment, Keitaro,ö Haruka said. ôCan I help you, Madam?ö
ôI would like some tea please,ö the woman replied. ôAnd some information, if itÆs at all possible.ö
ôWhat kind of information?ö Haruka asked, as she prepared a cup and a pot for tea.
ôIÆm interested in know about my sisterÆs fiancÚ, Keitaro Urashima,ö the long-haired woman answered. ôPlease allow me to introduce myself, IÆm Tsuruko Aoyama. Motoko Aoyama is my younger sister.ö
Haruka cast a glance at Keitaro as Tsuruko rose up from her bow. Keitaro was many things, but not the sort of person to keep a long term relationship secret.
Especially since he had been willing to marry Kitsune just three days earlier.
Keitaro sighed. ôWhy do people keep putting me in this position? DonÆt I have any say about my life?ö
ôSo you are Keitaro Urashima?ö the kendoist asked.
ôAt your service,ö the ronin answered with a somewhat sarcastic tone of voice.
Tsuruko appraised the dejected looking man sitting at the counter. ôIs there something going on between you and my sister that I donÆt know about?ö
ôNo, sheÆs my tenant and IÆm her landlord. ThatÆs it,ö Keitaro shrugged.
ôThen why would she say that youÆre engaged?ö
ôAsk her.ö
Haruka felt angry at another of her friends. KitsuneÆs ploy was half-expected; she hated work at the best of times. But Motoko was different.
She never expected Motoko to lie about a relationship with a man, let alone one sheÆd voiced her disapproval of so often.
After a moment, the anger turned to disappointment. Haruka sighed and poured some hot water into the teapot. ôSo what happens now, Aoyama-san?ö
ôI donÆt know, I was asked by my mother to investigate the change in Motoko-hanÆs letters,ö Tsuruko explained. ôAfter Urashima-san here took over the running of the dormitory, my sister was rather upset.ö
ôIÆll say,ö Keitaro muttered.
ôShe wrote some unkind things in the letters she sent home, but recently, thereÆs been no mention of you in them. Mother was concerned that there had been an incident.ö
ôYou mean that she might have killed Keitaro,ö Haruka said, her expression turning stony.
ôYes, but when I arrived and mentioned this to Motoko-han, she said that it was just the opposite and that she was engaged to Urashima-san here,ö Tsuruko continued. ôThe only reason I can think of for her to lie like that would be sheÆs under the impression that IÆm here to take her home to Kyoto.ö
The elder Urashima reached for a cigarette. ôAnd are you?ö
ôNot at this time, no,ö the visiting Aoyama replied. ôMay I ask why you donÆt seem too enamoured with the idea of marrying my sister, Urashima-san?ö
ôLong story,ö Keitaro said, not looking up from his coffee. He drained the cup and turned to get a good look at Tsuruko. ôA few days ago, I was treated like I didnÆt matter, like I was just a solution to a problem. I would have helped this person because they asked me to, but the details were all lies. I still helped her because sheÆs my friend and what else am I going to do? But it hurt me that she felt she had to lie to me like that.
ôAnd now Motoko just expects me to drop everything and lie to you. I donÆt feel like spending the rest of my life living a lie, IÆm sorry. ItÆs bad enough having to keep my part time job under wraps without faking a relationship.ö
Tsuruko felt angry at her sister for forcing someone into such a position. If their relationship had been genuine, then it would have been fine. Tsuruko would have given her mother the good news and she would have shared her sisterÆs joy.
ôNo, Urashima-san, I am the one who is sorry.ö
ôPlease donÆt be too hard on Motoko û IÆve just had a rough couple of days. If this had happened three weeks ago, I wouldnÆt have felt like this,ö Keitaro insisted. ôItÆs just bad timing.ö
ôBut you still would have been forced into this lie,ö Tsuruko countered.
ôSheÆs my friend, what else am I going to do if not help her?ö the ronin shrugged.
Haruka sighed. Keitaro was just too kind-hearted for his own good. She knew that if one of the girls needed a vital organ, her cousin would have been first in the queue to donate it.
The spinster had often wondered what it would have been like if Keitaro had been more self-centred, but aside from probably already getting into Toudai and maybe having a more successful career as an artist, there werenÆt any other upsides that she could see.
As bizarre as it seems, she knew she wouldnÆt have felt the way she did if he wasnÆt him.
ôI donÆt know what to say, Urashima-san,ö Tsuruko said quietly. ôI thank you for your honesty and your graciousness. I canÆt help but feel that you would have made a good husband for my sister.ö
ôPerhaps,ö Haruka shrugged. ôBut I guess weÆll never know now, will we?ö
ôI guess not,ö the swordswoman said as she sipped her tea.
ôIÆm getting a feeling of dÚjÓ vu all over again, but now what do we do?ö Keitaro asked. ôTodayÆs mishap aside, Motoko is my friend and I donÆt want to see her hurt.ö
ôYou could tell your mother the truth,ö the smoker suggested. ôMotoko hasnÆt killed Keitaro; in fact now that sheÆs gotten to know him better, she likes him. YouÆve met him and you think heÆd be a good match for Motoko, but theyÆre not ready for an engagement.ö
Tsuruko looked up at Haruka in awe. ôThank you, Urashima-san. YouÆve helped everyone to save face; I am in your debt.ö
ôNo problem. It seems all we Urashimas do these days is solve peopleÆs problems.ö
ôPerhaps, but I feel that I should repay your help. If I might be permitted to stay for the night, I will take the two of you out tonight for a meal,ö Tsuruko said, her tone suggesting that this was a debt that would be repaid, and soon.
ôI donÆt know if any of the spare rooms are ready, but if you donÆt mind sharing with Motoko, IÆm sure that itÆd be fine,ö Haruka said. ôRight, Keitaro?ö
ôYes, of course,ö the ronin nodded.
ôVery well, then I shall prepare myself for this evening. Shall we meet at up at the Inn for seven?ö
ôWorks for me, Aoyama-sanö Keitaro replied.
ôSame here,ö Haruka nodded.
ôPlease, call me æTsurukoÆ,ö the swordswoman insisted. ôI think it would be appropriate for us all to be on first name terms.ö
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Motoko opened the front door to the Hinata Sou for the second time that day. When she saw her sister on the other side of the door, she swallowed nervously.
ôA-Aneueàö
ôWe need to talk, Motoko. In private where no-one can hear us.ö
ôIà we can talk in my room,ö Motoko said, shrinking away from her sisterÆs glare.
ôGood,ö Tsuruko said tersely. ôLead the way.ö
The short walk to MotokoÆs room was silent, carefully calculated to unsettle the younger sister. When the pair arrived, Tsuruko closed the door.
ôMotoko-han, IÆve just spoken with Keitaro-san.ö
ôO-oh?ö
ôYes, and youÆre not engaged. In fact youÆre not in any sort of romantic relationship. You lied to me, and that hurts.ö
ôI thought you were going to make me come home to Kyoto!ö Motoko blurted out.
ôI should do just that, given how youÆve behaved,ö Tsuruko said, her glare seemingly refusing to soften. ôBut while he might not be your fiancÚ, he certainly still cares enough about you to help you save face.ö
ôH-he did?ö
ôYes, he did. And to repay them, IÆm going to take them out for a meal this evening.ö
ôY-youÆre staying the night?ö the younger sister asked, unsure of what she should say.
ôYes, I shall be staying here tonight, Motoko-han.ö
ôW-what time will we be going out?ö
ôWe? YouÆre not going anywhere tonight, Motoko-han,ö Tsuruko explained with a glare. ôKeitaro-san is a good person, Motoko-han. Perhaps you should reconsider how you treat him.ö
ôWhat do you mean?ö Motoko asked, a cold lump forming in the pit of her stomach.
ôKeitaro-san told me that had certain events not happened recently, he would have gotten engaged to you to help you out. Whether your feelings for him were true or not.ö
ôHe would have?ö
ôYes. He would have. But thatÆs a discussion for another time,ö Tsuruko smiled. ôNow, itÆs time for some training.ö
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When the clock struck seven in the evening, Tsuruko stood by the main entrance, dressed in a blue kimono with a golden floral pattern.
Her hair was tied up in a simple ponytail, and but she clearly felt nervous about something.
Keitaro walked up to her, dressed in a smart shirt and black trousers. ôIs something wrong, Aoyama-san?ö
ôPlease, I asked you call me æTsurukoÆ,ö the swordswoman smiled. ôWe are friends, are we not?ö
ôOf course, butà you seem rather nervous about something.ö
ôIÆm currently unarmed,ö Tsuruko explained.
ôOh. I donÆt know what to say to that,ö Keitaro admitted.
ôI donÆt think IÆll need a weapon tonight, Keitaro-san, but itÆs rare for me not to carry my blade.ö
Haruka opened the door and stepped inside. She was wearing a black dress that showed that she was a full grown woman. ôI see that weÆre all ready to go.ö
ôWe are indeed,ö Tsuruko confirmed. ôIÆve booked a table at AmaterasuÆs Garden.ö
ôW-what? I canÆt eat there!ö Keitaro spluttered. ôItÆs too expensive! IÆm not properly dressed! IÆm too clumsy and low class for that sort of restaurant!ö
ôKeitaro,ö Haruka snapped. ôWeÆre going to AmaterasuÆs Garden. WeÆre not discussing it.ö
ôButà look at me û IÆm not wearing a suit!
ôDonÆt worry about a thing, Keitaro-san,ö the kimono-clad woman smiled reassuringly. ôIÆve got friends at the restaurant. The manager owes me a few favours and IÆm just calling one in.ö
ôOh? Are you some sort of fixer, Tsuruko-san?ö the smoker asked with a teasing smirk.
ôNot quite, though I did introduce him to his wife. But thatÆs not important right now. What is important is that we get going, our table is booked for a quarter to eight.ö
ôButà ok, but if they donÆt let me in, donÆt say I didnÆt warn you,ö the ronin shrugged before putting his shoes on.
@@@@@
Keitaro couldnÆt help but notice the disapproving looks he was getting from the people queuing up to get into AmaterasuÆs Garden.
He was dressed smartly but casually. However, compared to the collection of expensive suits and elegant gowns, he couldnÆt help but feel like a member of the unwashed masses.
The roninÆs cheeks burned brightly as he felt the scorn radiating from the other patrons. He turned to Tsuruko. ôI shouldnÆt be here.ö
ôItÆs fine, Keitaro-san,ö the kendoist smiled as they walked to the front of the queue. ôReservation for Tsuruko Aoyama, table for three,ö she said to the ma¯tre dÆ.
The black suited man looked at his list and saw the note the manager had put by TsurukoÆs name. ôGood evening, Aoyama-sama. Welcome to AmaterasuÆs Garden, please step inside.ö
Haruka was impressed with the clout that the Aoyama name seemed to have, though she was a little concerned about how Keitaro was underdressed for the occasion.
As they stepped inside, a man in a tuxedo appeared and greeted them, starting with Tsuruko.
ôTsuruko-san, itÆs good to see you!ö he beamed.
ôLikewise, Koji-san, likewise,ö Tsuruko smiled back. ôThese are my friends, Haruka Urashima and Keitaro Urashima.ö
ôUrashima-san, Urashima-san,ö Koji bowed politely. ôPlease, follow me to your tableö
Keitaro was beginning to panic at the situation. Haruka and Tsuruko deserved this level of respect, but not him.
He was a third year ronin with a stupid childhood dream û why would he deserve such treatment?
Compare that with Tsuruko Aoyama, clearly a woman whoÆd been brought up properly and had influence and Haruka.
Haruka wasà well, Keitaro didnÆt know how to put it, but he knew that Haruka was a special person to him. SheÆd always been kind and helpful to him, even when heÆd screwed up massively.
SheÆd even forgiven him for the time heÆd accidentally touched her breasts!
How could two people like them want to spend time in a restaurant like AmaterasuÆs Garden with the likes of him?
Tsuruko explained that she was here to get to know Keitaro better.
ôOh, I see,ö Koji said, appraising the young man in question. ôI must confess that if he wasnÆt with you, Tsuruko-san, he wouldnÆt be allowed inside dressed like that.ö
ôI know, and I appreciate your help with this evening, Koji-san. By the way, how is Kasumi these days?ö
ôFive months pregnant with our first child,ö the manager smiled happily.
ôThatÆs excellent news,ö the swordswoman replied, clapping her hands together.
ôCongratulations,ö Haruka added.
ôYes, congratulations,ö Keitaro smiled.
ôThank you,ö Koji smiled, feeling slightly embarrassed. ôUnfortunately, Tsuruko-san, weÆre a little too busy for me to spend time catching up with you tonight. However, I can recommend the prawn ceviche for a starter.ö
ôOh, that sounds interesting,ö the ronin said as he was handed a menu.
ôIÆll give you a few minutes to decide what you want to order. Would you like anything to drink?ö
ôIf weÆre having seafood, then I think IÆll have a white wine,ö Haruka replied. ôSomething dry.ö
ôCertainly, Madam, Tsuruko-san?ö
ôThe same, but make it a pinot grigio,ö the swordswoman decided.
ôWeÆve just had a delivery of an excellent vintage,ö Koji added. ôAnd what would you like, sir?ö
Keitaro looked around. He knew that he was awkward at the best of times, let alone when heÆd had something to drink. ôJust mineral water for me, thank you.ö
ôVery well, IÆll send your drinks to you shortly.ö
ôNot drinking, Keitaro-san?ö Tsuruko asked.
ôI donÆt want to risk making an even bigger fool out of myself than I already have,ö the ronin explained.
ôI suppose you do have a point, Keitaro,ö Haruka conceded. To her it seemed a shame not to indulge if someone else was picking up the tab. Though, that might have been KitsuneÆs bad habits rubbing off on her. She turned back to face Tsuruko. ôSo then, Tsuruko-san, tell us about yourself.ö
The kendoist sat up straight in her seat and began to explain the training that she and her sister had gone through at the dojo.
A waiter arrived with the drinks and set them out before disappearing to attend to another matter.
Haruka sipped her wine. ôNice.ö
ôIndeed,ö Tsuruko agreed after sampling her glass. ôSo then, Keitaro-san, please tell me about yourself.ö
ôMe? Well, thereÆs not much to say really. I mean, IÆm studying to get into Toudai, IÆm running the Hinata Sou, though I didnÆt know itÆd been turned into an all-girls dormitory. It used to be an inn, you see. Oh, and I occasionally do some art time writing and drawing.ö
ôPrestige aside, is there any reason why you chose Toudai for your further education?ö
ôItÆs sillyàö Keitaro trailed off, feeling rather embarrassed.
ôPlease, I realise that itÆs not very easy for you, but my sister had her reasons for what she did earlier today and I want to know why she would change her opinion of you from æa filthy degenerateÆ to someone who she could turn to for help,ö the swordswoman said.
ôI made a promise when I was a kid. Ià we promised a girl that weÆd get into Toudai together.ö
ôThatÆs not silly, thatÆs sweet,ö Tsuruko smiled.
ôYeah, but I canÆt remember anything about the girl I made the promise with,ö Keitaro admitted. ôI also failed the entrance exam twiceàö
ôItÆs not the act of failing that defines a person: itÆs what they do after theyÆve failed,ö the kendoist said wisely. ôDo they pick themselves up and try again? Do they just lie down and die? You have picked yourself up and tried again. I like that in a man.ö
While Keitaro couldnÆt help but feel boosted by TsurukoÆs comments, Haruka took a more critical view of them. To her, there was more to the metaphorical arm around the shoulders than met the eye.
Keitaro excused himself and Haruka took this opportunity to question Tsuruko.
ôSo Tsuruko-san, whatÆs with all these questions? If I didnÆt know any better, IÆd say youÆre sizing Keitaro up for wedding ring.ö
Tsuruko met the smokerÆs gaze. ôI suppose that it could seem that way. I canÆt deny that I see some of my late husbandÆs qualities in Keitaro-san; I suppose thatÆs why I wouldnÆt mind Motoko-han and Keitaro getting together.ö
ôLate husband?ö asked the smoker.
ôHe died of meningitis three years ago.ö
ôIÆm sorry to hear that,ö Haruka said sympathetically.
ôThank youàö Tsuruko trailed off as Keitaro returned.
ôIs something wrong?ö the ronin asked picking up that something had been brought up.
ôNo, I was just thinking about the past,ö the widow answered.
Keitaro didnÆt know what to say to that, so he let it drift past him. ôSo, why did Motoko come to stay at the Inn, Tsuruko-san? I donÆt mean to sound horrible, but she made you out to be some sort of tyrant.ö
ôYounger siblings often have exaggerated views of their elders. But she didnÆt get along with my husband. Now that I think about it, it may explain why she didnÆt like Keitaro-san at first.ö
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At the Hinata Sou, Naru Narusegawa was looking for Keitaro. She had wanted to go over some of the homework sheÆd been set with him, as heÆd recently covered the same work in his cram school.
The brunette walked into the TV room and looked around.
ôIs something up, Naru-sempai?ö Motoko asked, looking up from the TV.
ôWhereÆs Keitaro?ö
ôHeÆs gone out, why?ö
ôI wanted to ask him about some homework. Wait, gone out? Where?ö Naru asked. ôHe doesnÆt normally go out midweek.ö
ôHeÆs with my sister,ö Motoko admitted.
ôWhy is he out with your sister? They on a date or something?ö
ôNo, Haruka-sanÆs with them. ItÆsà My sister just wanted to talk to them, thatÆs all,ö said the kendoist.
ôHmmàö Naru wasnÆt sure what to make of that. From what Motoko had said about her sister, there was no chance of Keitaro getting away with any of his usual antics. Certainly not with all of his body parts intact, at any rate.
But why would MotokoÆs sister want to talk with Keitaro and Haruka? What would they talk about?
NaruÆs keen mind went over the facts and decided that there was only one conclusion: Keitaro was being interviewed for an arranged marriage to Motoko.
ôM-Motoko-chan, is everything alright between you and Keitaro?ö
ôYes, why do you ask, Naru-sempai?ö
Naru sat down next to Motoko, hoping to keep what she was about to say as secret as she could. ôIà I think that your sister is interviewing Keitaro. I get this horrible feeling that sheÆs trying to get you two engaged.ö
Motoko laughed nervously. ôW-what makes you say that?ö
ôWell, why else would she want to talk to Keitaro and Haruka unless sheÆs laying the foundations for an omiai? It makes perfect sense.ö
ôIt does?ö
ôYes,ö the brunette insisted. ôYouÆre going to be forced into a marriage with Keitaro to satisfy family honour.ö
ôBut why would my sister expect me to marry Keitaro?ö Motoko asked. ôOur families donÆt have any real connection, so itÆs not like weÆd be ending a multi generational feud or cementing political power.ö
ôOhà but the only other reason that I can think of is that your sister and Haruka-san are planning to murder Keitaro and dispose of the body.ö
ôAneue isnÆt carrying any weapons, Naru-sempai.ö
ôThat just helps with her alibi,ö Naru countered. ôThink about it, her sword is here, right, so thereÆs no chance it could be linked to KeitaroÆs death.ö
Motoko shook her head. ôHave you been watching Kitsune-sempaiÆs soap operas again? What would my sister gain from killing Keitaro?ö
ôI donÆt know, but Haruka-san would be next in line to inherit the dormitory, so maybe they agreed to split the proceeds of its sale?ö
The kendoist laughed in disbelief. ôDo you really think that Haruka-san would let anyone murder Keitaro? She might hit him when he calls her æauntÆ, but murder? No, my sister and Haruka-san arenÆt planning to murder Keitaro.ö
ôThen why are they out together?ö Naru asked.
ôPerhaps my sister just wants to get to know Haruka-san better?ö Motoko suggested. She yawned. ôIÆm sorry, IÆm just really tired. My sister insisted that we trained earlier, and it was a bit more vigorous than I was expected.ö
ôOk, but thereÆs something going on here. I can feel it.ö
@@@@@
Back at the restaurant, Keitaro was still visibly tense. Haruka smiled at him to help reassure him.
ôRelax, Keitaro, short of there being a ninja attack, itÆs going to be fine.ö
ôI know, but everyoneÆs looking at me and itÆs making me nervous.ö
ôWould it make you more comfortable if we left?ö the smoker asked.
ôIà Wellà itÆs not that I donÆt like it here, but I donÆt fit in. If IÆd known in advance that we were coming here, I would have dressed more formally,ö the ronin replied. He let out a sigh. ôIÆm very sorry, Tsuruko-san.ö
ôBut our starters havenÆt arrived yet,ö the swordswoman said, a slight frown on her face. ôAnd I worked up a hunger training with Motoko-han earlier.ö
There was a pause before Tsuruko continued. ôIÆm sorry, IÆm being selfish. I wanted to apologise to you both for my sister.ö
ôItÆs alright, Tsuruko-san,ö Keitaro smiled reassuringly as the starters arrived. He took a sniff of his prawn ceviche. ôIÆll endure this hardship for the sake of your feelings.ö
Tsuruko laughed. ôKeitaro-san, I can see why my sisterÆs attitude towards you has softened. YouÆre quite the charmer.ö
ôIà I guess itÆs something of a gift?ö the bespectacled Urashima asked, clearly on unfamiliar ground.
Haruka also let out a chuckle. ôIt is Keitaro. Now, how about we all share the burden of this hardship?ö
@@@@@
A short while later, after the trio had selected the dish of the day, poached salmon with pickled vegetables and rice, they were starting to feel a lot more relaxed. Tsuruko was glad that Keitaro had finally loosened up and started get into the spirit of the evening.
Haruka was also glad that things were improving. She glanced at her wineglass: it had been refilled while she wasnÆt looking. TsurukoÆs had, too.
æAt least Keitaro is keeping to water; I dread to think how much the bill would come to if all three of us were drinking.Æ
ôSo, Tsuruko-san, does your husband mind that youÆve taken another man to dinner?ö Keitaro asked with a teasing smile.
HarukaÆs face fell. æOh shit, Keitaro.Æ
TsurukoÆs expression turned sad and she turned her attention to her wineglass.
The colour drained from the roninÆs face as he realised that heÆd blundered. ôWhat? Oh, you stupid, stupid idiot, Keitaro,ö he muttered. ôIÆm ever so sorry, Tsuruko-san, I didnÆt knowàö
ôItÆs alright, Keitaro-san, you werenÆt here when I told Haruka-san. My husband passed away three years ago.ö
ôIÆm sorry, Tsuruko-san, I just assumed that someone as beautiful as you would be married.ö
Tsuruko cast a glance at Keitaro. She could see that his words were genuine. She picked up her wineglass and took a sip, savouring the taste of the dry white wine. ôThereÆs that charm of yours again, Keitaro-san. ItÆs a heady mixture of honesty, flattery and humility. I think I like it.ö
Keitaro was just glad that he hadnÆt offended Tsuruko. He let out a relieved sigh.
Haruka, whoÆd been silently observing the situation, was curious as to what Tsuruko thought about Keitaro. Tsuruko had seen his willingness to help people he cared about, even if it meant that heÆd have to marry someone; seen his slightly goofy, yet generally positive outlook on life and now, sheÆd seen him have a faux pas.
Though luckily, itÆd been a verbal one rather than him ending up with his face in her lap or his hands inside her kimono.
Keitaro excused himself and the smoker looked at Tsuruko. ôIÆm sorry, Tsuruko-san. Motoko never really talked about your family, so we didnÆt know. KeitaroÆs normally good about not saying the wrong thing.ö
ôI understand, Haruka-san. KeitaroÆs not the malicious type, itÆs justà well, itÆs been three years since Akira died. IÆve been feeling lonely and now I think IÆm ready for another relationship. However, IÆm hardly a prime candidate: a widowed Christmas Cake? Please, even if I wasnÆt 30, I focused on the sword, rather than the kitchen knife.ö
ôAnd what about Keitaro? Where does he fit into tonight?ö
ôAfter getting to know him, I canÆt say that IÆm not glad that my sister isnÆt in a relationship with him,ö the swordswoman admitted, her cheeks acquiring a pink tinge.
ôI see,ö Haruka said before draining her own glass. ôYouÆre not planning to use him to get out of any trouble, are you?ö
ôNo,ö Tsuruko answered truthfully.
ôGood,ö Haruka smiled as Keitaro returned. ôEverything alright, Keitaro?ö
ôYes, IÆm sorry, Tsuruko-san, I didnÆt mean to cause any offence or distress.ö
ôItÆs alright, Keitaro. And now, our main courses have arrived.ö
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Kitsune was tired. SheÆd spent most of the day with Shinobu. The morning and early afternoon had been taken up with learning the finer points of food shopping, and the rest of the afternoon and early evening was the discussion of recipes and techniques.
The alcohol-loving girl hadnÆt had to learn this much practical knowledge in some time!
Having brought the lessons to a close, she was in the mood for some fun. A quick check of her finances had ruled out a trip to the liquor store, and she was still a little hesitant to press Keitaro for a few drinks. This left her in the unfortunate situation of needing to find cheap, alcohol-free fun.
ôActually, where is Keitaro?ö she pondered aloud. She hadnÆt seen her landlord since just after breakfast.
Deciding that it was time to unwind, Kitsune left to find her friends. Sauntering down the hallway, the short-haired girl noticed that Naru and Motoko were talking.
ôHey you two,ö she called out. ôHave any of you seen Keitaro lately?ö
ôKeitaro is out at the moment,ö Naru answered, a concerned look on her face.
ôOh? Is something wrong?ö
ôNo, heÆsà wellàö the auburn-haired girl trailed off as she tried to express her concerns to her best friend.
Motoko sighed tiredly. ôKeitaro is out having dinner with my sister and Haruka-san.ö
ôKeitaroÆs on a date with two women? My, my,ö Kitsune teased, knowing full well what effect her words would have on her two friends. ôI guess that threeÆs the magic number when it comes to KeitaroÆs bedàö
Naru scowled. She hadnÆt thought of it that way until now. Her scowl turned into a blush as her mind went over the logistics of such an encounter.
Motoko shook her head. Her sister was a widow, true, but the man Tsuruko had married had very little in common with Keitaro. ôEven though my sister is single, I doubt thatÆs why theyÆre having dinner tonight, Mitsune-sempai.ö
ôDo you know where theyÆre eating?ö
The kendoist paused for a moment as she yawned. ôAmaterasuÆs Garden.ö
ôWait, what? Keitaro is taking a single woman out for dinner to AmaterasuÆs Garden? And you donÆt think that theyÆre going to be ægetting closeÆ? Motoko-chan, tell me youÆre not that na´ve. Please, I have to believe that,ö the ash-blonde replied. ôDo you know how expensive that place is?ö
ôNo, but IÆd imagine itÆs not cheap,ö Motoko answered. ôBesides, Aneue selected it, not Keitaro. You know how his tastes run.ö
Kitsune remained silent for a moment. ôIf Keitaro isnÆt taking your sister out, then someoneÆs apologising for something. AmaterasuÆs Garden makes le HÚraut Culinaire look like a ramen stand!ö
The swordswoman coughed, surprised by her friendÆs suggestion. It was the truth, but how could she admit to that? TheyÆd all ask why her sister is treating Keitaro and Haruka to such a meal. Kitsune would show no mercy with her teasing if she found out that sheÆd lied about being engaged to Keitaro.
ôYou alright there, Motoko-chan?ö asked Naru.
ôYes, just a little more tired than I thought. I think IÆll get an early night,ö Motoko said, rising to her feet. ôI shall see you both in the morning.ö
ôNight,ö Kitsune nodded. When they were alone, she looked at Naru. ôThere is another explanation. For why Keitaro, Haruka-san and Tsuruko-san are out together, you know.ö
ôWell, I thought that too,ö the Toudai-bound girl admitted. ôThe only thing I could see was that Haruka-san was planning to inherit the Inn instead of Keitaro and splitting the money with Tsuruko-san.ö
ôHow would they do that?ö
ôBy removing Keitaroàö
The ash-blonde laughed. ôHaruka-san killing Keitaro? Please, she cares too much about Keitaro to for that. Besides, if she asked Keitaro for something, heÆd give it to her without hesitating.ö
ôI suppose so,ö Naru conceded. There was a momentÆs silence between the two friends. ôWhat were you thinking of?ö
ôWell, itÆs something along the lines of what you were thinking, only less death and moreà you know; older single women, no hope of catching a manàö
Naru looked a little blank.
ôI guess you donÆt know. Two women feel they canÆt get a man, so what they do is find someone else in their position, who understands how they feelàö Kitsune trailed off, hoping her friend would connect the dots. She sighed when Naru failed to pick up her subtle hint.
ôFor the love ofà Basically, they become lesbians, Naru-chan. Geez, since when did you become this dense?ö
@@@@@
To be continuedà
Art Attack
By Lord Raa
@@@@@
Disclaim-me-do: ItÆs just a pint of ice cream.
@@@@@
Part 4
@@@@@
Over the next couple of days, things seemed to be going well for Kitsune and her newfound, though currently clandestine, role at the Hinata Sou.
Shinobu was glad to have someone helping her. Sure, Kitsune wasnÆt exactly thrilled to be peeling vegetables or washing rice, but it did mean that meal preparation times were reduced and KitsuneÆs help was more practical than KaollaÆs.
The princess often tried to spice things up if Shinobu wasnÆt keeping an eye on her. Not to mention the attempts to include bananas in every meal.
As part of KitsuneÆs domestic training, she was being taken grocery shopping. It was a new experience for her. She was used to shopping for clothes and booze, sure, but it was different when youÆre looking for freshness in fruit, vegetables and fish.
Out of the corner of her eye, the ash-blonde caught a glimpse of someone who looked like a taller, older version of Motoko catching a bus.
Shinobu calling out to her stopped her from following up.
ôKitsune-sempai, over here!ö
æWeird, though I suppose that it could be MotokoÆs sisteràÆ Kitsune mused. ôComing, Shinobu-chan.ö
@@@@@
The doorbell to the Hinata Sou rang, causing Motoko Aoyama to take a detour from her original plan to get a drink from the kitchen.
Normally, Keitaro would have answered the door, however he felt that heÆd been neglecting both his studies and part time job over the last few days and asked not to be disturbed for the next few hours.
When the young Aoyama opened the door, she was greeted by the unexpected sight of her sister, Tsuruko standing there.
ôAneue! Motoko squeaked loudly, beads of sweat forming on her brow. ôWhat brings you here?ö
ôItÆs you, strangely enough, Motoko-han. Mother was concerned about your letters,ö the elder sister explained.
ôM-my letters?ö
ôYes, you see, a while ago, your letters were filled with angry comments about your new landlord, Keitaro Urashima. However, in your last three letters, you havenÆt mentioned him at all,ö Tsuruko explained. ôMother has asked me to investigate.ö
ôInvestigate?ö Motoko asked, confused by her sisterÆs comments.
ôYes, she was worried that youÆd accidentally killed Urashima-san.ö
ôKILLED? No, itÆs nothing like that at all! In factàö the younger sister swallowed nervously. Out of the corner of her eye, she caught a glimpse of the man in question. ôIn fact, IÆm engaged to Keitaro.ö
TsurukoÆs face remained neutral. ôEngaged? And when were you going to tell your family about this important news?ö
ôIà itÆs a recent thing,ö Motoko lied.
ôAnd what sort of person is Keitaro Urashima? What makes him worthy of you?ö
ôHeÆsà well, heÆs a kind-hearted person and heÆs studying to get into Toudai. Not to mention that heÆs got not one but two jobs. HeÆs going to inherit the Inn one day.ö
ôHe sounds interesting, when can I meet him?ö
ôIà IÆll get him now,ö Motoko said as she walked to KeitaroÆs room. ôKeitaro!ö she called out when she knocked on the door.
There was no reply.
ôOh, it seems that heÆs not in his room. IÆm sure that heÆll be back soon.ö
Then the front door was closed. When the time for someone announcing their return had elapsed, it became immediately clear that someone had planned to sneak out, only for the door to slip out of their hands.
ôAhàö Motoko winced.
ôIndeed,ö Tsuruko replied neutrally. ôIf I wasnÆt so open-minded, I might assume that Keitaro-san is avoiding you.ö
ôWe donÆt know that was Keitaro,ö the younger sister insisted. ôIt could have been Mitsune-sempai, or Naru-sempai.ö
ôLike I said, IÆm open-minded, Motoko-han.ö The elder sister scanned the corridor for signs that people were still in the building. There were none.
Tsuruko thought back to the information Motoko had given them about the various relationships of her friends. She recalled that Keitaro was related to the person who ran the teahouse on the way up the hill.
ôIÆm a little thirsty.ö
ôOh, IÆll make some tea, Aneue.ö
ôOh no, I donÆt want to be a bother, Motoko-han, IÆll just visit the teashop I passed on the way.ö
@@@@@
Haruka looked up to see her cousin slump into a seat by the counter.
ôSomething up, Keitaro?ö
ôYou could say that,ö the ronin sighed.
The smoker winced. She poured Keitaro a cup of coffee. ôWant to tell me about it?ö
ôYeah, but I donÆt know where to begin.ö
ôThe start is usually a good place,ö Haruka deadpanned. ôYou should know that all good stories start at the beginning by now.ö
Keitaro chuckled. ôYeah, I suppose so.ö He took a sip of the coffee to wet his lips, but before he could start, someone else walked into the teashop.
ôOne moment, Keitaro,ö Haruka said. ôCan I help you, Madam?ö
ôI would like some tea please,ö the woman replied. ôAnd some information, if itÆs at all possible.ö
ôWhat kind of information?ö Haruka asked, as she prepared a cup and a pot for tea.
ôIÆm interested in know about my sisterÆs fiancÚ, Keitaro Urashima,ö the long-haired woman answered. ôPlease allow me to introduce myself, IÆm Tsuruko Aoyama. Motoko Aoyama is my younger sister.ö
Haruka cast a glance at Keitaro as Tsuruko rose up from her bow. Keitaro was many things, but not the sort of person to keep a long term relationship secret.
Especially since he had been willing to marry Kitsune just three days earlier.
Keitaro sighed. ôWhy do people keep putting me in this position? DonÆt I have any say about my life?ö
ôSo you are Keitaro Urashima?ö the kendoist asked.
ôAt your service,ö the ronin answered with a somewhat sarcastic tone of voice.
Tsuruko appraised the dejected looking man sitting at the counter. ôIs there something going on between you and my sister that I donÆt know about?ö
ôNo, sheÆs my tenant and IÆm her landlord. ThatÆs it,ö Keitaro shrugged.
ôThen why would she say that youÆre engaged?ö
ôAsk her.ö
Haruka felt angry at another of her friends. KitsuneÆs ploy was half-expected; she hated work at the best of times. But Motoko was different.
She never expected Motoko to lie about a relationship with a man, let alone one sheÆd voiced her disapproval of so often.
After a moment, the anger turned to disappointment. Haruka sighed and poured some hot water into the teapot. ôSo what happens now, Aoyama-san?ö
ôI donÆt know, I was asked by my mother to investigate the change in Motoko-hanÆs letters,ö Tsuruko explained. ôAfter Urashima-san here took over the running of the dormitory, my sister was rather upset.ö
ôIÆll say,ö Keitaro muttered.
ôShe wrote some unkind things in the letters she sent home, but recently, thereÆs been no mention of you in them. Mother was concerned that there had been an incident.ö
ôYou mean that she might have killed Keitaro,ö Haruka said, her expression turning stony.
ôYes, but when I arrived and mentioned this to Motoko-han, she said that it was just the opposite and that she was engaged to Urashima-san here,ö Tsuruko continued. ôThe only reason I can think of for her to lie like that would be sheÆs under the impression that IÆm here to take her home to Kyoto.ö
The elder Urashima reached for a cigarette. ôAnd are you?ö
ôNot at this time, no,ö the visiting Aoyama replied. ôMay I ask why you donÆt seem too enamoured with the idea of marrying my sister, Urashima-san?ö
ôLong story,ö Keitaro said, not looking up from his coffee. He drained the cup and turned to get a good look at Tsuruko. ôA few days ago, I was treated like I didnÆt matter, like I was just a solution to a problem. I would have helped this person because they asked me to, but the details were all lies. I still helped her because sheÆs my friend and what else am I going to do? But it hurt me that she felt she had to lie to me like that.
ôAnd now Motoko just expects me to drop everything and lie to you. I donÆt feel like spending the rest of my life living a lie, IÆm sorry. ItÆs bad enough having to keep my part time job under wraps without faking a relationship.ö
Tsuruko felt angry at her sister for forcing someone into such a position. If their relationship had been genuine, then it would have been fine. Tsuruko would have given her mother the good news and she would have shared her sisterÆs joy.
ôNo, Urashima-san, I am the one who is sorry.ö
ôPlease donÆt be too hard on Motoko û IÆve just had a rough couple of days. If this had happened three weeks ago, I wouldnÆt have felt like this,ö Keitaro insisted. ôItÆs just bad timing.ö
ôBut you still would have been forced into this lie,ö Tsuruko countered.
ôSheÆs my friend, what else am I going to do if not help her?ö the ronin shrugged.
Haruka sighed. Keitaro was just too kind-hearted for his own good. She knew that if one of the girls needed a vital organ, her cousin would have been first in the queue to donate it.
The spinster had often wondered what it would have been like if Keitaro had been more self-centred, but aside from probably already getting into Toudai and maybe having a more successful career as an artist, there werenÆt any other upsides that she could see.
As bizarre as it seems, she knew she wouldnÆt have felt the way she did if he wasnÆt him.
ôI donÆt know what to say, Urashima-san,ö Tsuruko said quietly. ôI thank you for your honesty and your graciousness. I canÆt help but feel that you would have made a good husband for my sister.ö
ôPerhaps,ö Haruka shrugged. ôBut I guess weÆll never know now, will we?ö
ôI guess not,ö the swordswoman said as she sipped her tea.
ôIÆm getting a feeling of dÚjÓ vu all over again, but now what do we do?ö Keitaro asked. ôTodayÆs mishap aside, Motoko is my friend and I donÆt want to see her hurt.ö
ôYou could tell your mother the truth,ö the smoker suggested. ôMotoko hasnÆt killed Keitaro; in fact now that sheÆs gotten to know him better, she likes him. YouÆve met him and you think heÆd be a good match for Motoko, but theyÆre not ready for an engagement.ö
Tsuruko looked up at Haruka in awe. ôThank you, Urashima-san. YouÆve helped everyone to save face; I am in your debt.ö
ôNo problem. It seems all we Urashimas do these days is solve peopleÆs problems.ö
ôPerhaps, but I feel that I should repay your help. If I might be permitted to stay for the night, I will take the two of you out tonight for a meal,ö Tsuruko said, her tone suggesting that this was a debt that would be repaid, and soon.
ôI donÆt know if any of the spare rooms are ready, but if you donÆt mind sharing with Motoko, IÆm sure that itÆd be fine,ö Haruka said. ôRight, Keitaro?ö
ôYes, of course,ö the ronin nodded.
ôVery well, then I shall prepare myself for this evening. Shall we meet at up at the Inn for seven?ö
ôWorks for me, Aoyama-sanö Keitaro replied.
ôSame here,ö Haruka nodded.
ôPlease, call me æTsurukoÆ,ö the swordswoman insisted. ôI think it would be appropriate for us all to be on first name terms.ö
@@@@@
Motoko opened the front door to the Hinata Sou for the second time that day. When she saw her sister on the other side of the door, she swallowed nervously.
ôA-Aneueàö
ôWe need to talk, Motoko. In private where no-one can hear us.ö
ôIà we can talk in my room,ö Motoko said, shrinking away from her sisterÆs glare.
ôGood,ö Tsuruko said tersely. ôLead the way.ö
The short walk to MotokoÆs room was silent, carefully calculated to unsettle the younger sister. When the pair arrived, Tsuruko closed the door.
ôMotoko-han, IÆve just spoken with Keitaro-san.ö
ôO-oh?ö
ôYes, and youÆre not engaged. In fact youÆre not in any sort of romantic relationship. You lied to me, and that hurts.ö
ôI thought you were going to make me come home to Kyoto!ö Motoko blurted out.
ôI should do just that, given how youÆve behaved,ö Tsuruko said, her glare seemingly refusing to soften. ôBut while he might not be your fiancÚ, he certainly still cares enough about you to help you save face.ö
ôH-he did?ö
ôYes, he did. And to repay them, IÆm going to take them out for a meal this evening.ö
ôY-youÆre staying the night?ö the younger sister asked, unsure of what she should say.
ôYes, I shall be staying here tonight, Motoko-han.ö
ôW-what time will we be going out?ö
ôWe? YouÆre not going anywhere tonight, Motoko-han,ö Tsuruko explained with a glare. ôKeitaro-san is a good person, Motoko-han. Perhaps you should reconsider how you treat him.ö
ôWhat do you mean?ö Motoko asked, a cold lump forming in the pit of her stomach.
ôKeitaro-san told me that had certain events not happened recently, he would have gotten engaged to you to help you out. Whether your feelings for him were true or not.ö
ôHe would have?ö
ôYes. He would have. But thatÆs a discussion for another time,ö Tsuruko smiled. ôNow, itÆs time for some training.ö
@@@@@
When the clock struck seven in the evening, Tsuruko stood by the main entrance, dressed in a blue kimono with a golden floral pattern.
Her hair was tied up in a simple ponytail, and but she clearly felt nervous about something.
Keitaro walked up to her, dressed in a smart shirt and black trousers. ôIs something wrong, Aoyama-san?ö
ôPlease, I asked you call me æTsurukoÆ,ö the swordswoman smiled. ôWe are friends, are we not?ö
ôOf course, butà you seem rather nervous about something.ö
ôIÆm currently unarmed,ö Tsuruko explained.
ôOh. I donÆt know what to say to that,ö Keitaro admitted.
ôI donÆt think IÆll need a weapon tonight, Keitaro-san, but itÆs rare for me not to carry my blade.ö
Haruka opened the door and stepped inside. She was wearing a black dress that showed that she was a full grown woman. ôI see that weÆre all ready to go.ö
ôWe are indeed,ö Tsuruko confirmed. ôIÆve booked a table at AmaterasuÆs Garden.ö
ôW-what? I canÆt eat there!ö Keitaro spluttered. ôItÆs too expensive! IÆm not properly dressed! IÆm too clumsy and low class for that sort of restaurant!ö
ôKeitaro,ö Haruka snapped. ôWeÆre going to AmaterasuÆs Garden. WeÆre not discussing it.ö
ôButà look at me û IÆm not wearing a suit!
ôDonÆt worry about a thing, Keitaro-san,ö the kimono-clad woman smiled reassuringly. ôIÆve got friends at the restaurant. The manager owes me a few favours and IÆm just calling one in.ö
ôOh? Are you some sort of fixer, Tsuruko-san?ö the smoker asked with a teasing smirk.
ôNot quite, though I did introduce him to his wife. But thatÆs not important right now. What is important is that we get going, our table is booked for a quarter to eight.ö
ôButà ok, but if they donÆt let me in, donÆt say I didnÆt warn you,ö the ronin shrugged before putting his shoes on.
@@@@@
Keitaro couldnÆt help but notice the disapproving looks he was getting from the people queuing up to get into AmaterasuÆs Garden.
He was dressed smartly but casually. However, compared to the collection of expensive suits and elegant gowns, he couldnÆt help but feel like a member of the unwashed masses.
The roninÆs cheeks burned brightly as he felt the scorn radiating from the other patrons. He turned to Tsuruko. ôI shouldnÆt be here.ö
ôItÆs fine, Keitaro-san,ö the kendoist smiled as they walked to the front of the queue. ôReservation for Tsuruko Aoyama, table for three,ö she said to the ma¯tre dÆ.
The black suited man looked at his list and saw the note the manager had put by TsurukoÆs name. ôGood evening, Aoyama-sama. Welcome to AmaterasuÆs Garden, please step inside.ö
Haruka was impressed with the clout that the Aoyama name seemed to have, though she was a little concerned about how Keitaro was underdressed for the occasion.
As they stepped inside, a man in a tuxedo appeared and greeted them, starting with Tsuruko.
ôTsuruko-san, itÆs good to see you!ö he beamed.
ôLikewise, Koji-san, likewise,ö Tsuruko smiled back. ôThese are my friends, Haruka Urashima and Keitaro Urashima.ö
ôUrashima-san, Urashima-san,ö Koji bowed politely. ôPlease, follow me to your tableö
Keitaro was beginning to panic at the situation. Haruka and Tsuruko deserved this level of respect, but not him.
He was a third year ronin with a stupid childhood dream û why would he deserve such treatment?
Compare that with Tsuruko Aoyama, clearly a woman whoÆd been brought up properly and had influence and Haruka.
Haruka wasà well, Keitaro didnÆt know how to put it, but he knew that Haruka was a special person to him. SheÆd always been kind and helpful to him, even when heÆd screwed up massively.
SheÆd even forgiven him for the time heÆd accidentally touched her breasts!
How could two people like them want to spend time in a restaurant like AmaterasuÆs Garden with the likes of him?
Tsuruko explained that she was here to get to know Keitaro better.
ôOh, I see,ö Koji said, appraising the young man in question. ôI must confess that if he wasnÆt with you, Tsuruko-san, he wouldnÆt be allowed inside dressed like that.ö
ôI know, and I appreciate your help with this evening, Koji-san. By the way, how is Kasumi these days?ö
ôFive months pregnant with our first child,ö the manager smiled happily.
ôThatÆs excellent news,ö the swordswoman replied, clapping her hands together.
ôCongratulations,ö Haruka added.
ôYes, congratulations,ö Keitaro smiled.
ôThank you,ö Koji smiled, feeling slightly embarrassed. ôUnfortunately, Tsuruko-san, weÆre a little too busy for me to spend time catching up with you tonight. However, I can recommend the prawn ceviche for a starter.ö
ôOh, that sounds interesting,ö the ronin said as he was handed a menu.
ôIÆll give you a few minutes to decide what you want to order. Would you like anything to drink?ö
ôIf weÆre having seafood, then I think IÆll have a white wine,ö Haruka replied. ôSomething dry.ö
ôCertainly, Madam, Tsuruko-san?ö
ôThe same, but make it a pinot grigio,ö the swordswoman decided.
ôWeÆve just had a delivery of an excellent vintage,ö Koji added. ôAnd what would you like, sir?ö
Keitaro looked around. He knew that he was awkward at the best of times, let alone when heÆd had something to drink. ôJust mineral water for me, thank you.ö
ôVery well, IÆll send your drinks to you shortly.ö
ôNot drinking, Keitaro-san?ö Tsuruko asked.
ôI donÆt want to risk making an even bigger fool out of myself than I already have,ö the ronin explained.
ôI suppose you do have a point, Keitaro,ö Haruka conceded. To her it seemed a shame not to indulge if someone else was picking up the tab. Though, that might have been KitsuneÆs bad habits rubbing off on her. She turned back to face Tsuruko. ôSo then, Tsuruko-san, tell us about yourself.ö
The kendoist sat up straight in her seat and began to explain the training that she and her sister had gone through at the dojo.
A waiter arrived with the drinks and set them out before disappearing to attend to another matter.
Haruka sipped her wine. ôNice.ö
ôIndeed,ö Tsuruko agreed after sampling her glass. ôSo then, Keitaro-san, please tell me about yourself.ö
ôMe? Well, thereÆs not much to say really. I mean, IÆm studying to get into Toudai, IÆm running the Hinata Sou, though I didnÆt know itÆd been turned into an all-girls dormitory. It used to be an inn, you see. Oh, and I occasionally do some art time writing and drawing.ö
ôPrestige aside, is there any reason why you chose Toudai for your further education?ö
ôItÆs sillyàö Keitaro trailed off, feeling rather embarrassed.
ôPlease, I realise that itÆs not very easy for you, but my sister had her reasons for what she did earlier today and I want to know why she would change her opinion of you from æa filthy degenerateÆ to someone who she could turn to for help,ö the swordswoman said.
ôI made a promise when I was a kid. Ià we promised a girl that weÆd get into Toudai together.ö
ôThatÆs not silly, thatÆs sweet,ö Tsuruko smiled.
ôYeah, but I canÆt remember anything about the girl I made the promise with,ö Keitaro admitted. ôI also failed the entrance exam twiceàö
ôItÆs not the act of failing that defines a person: itÆs what they do after theyÆve failed,ö the kendoist said wisely. ôDo they pick themselves up and try again? Do they just lie down and die? You have picked yourself up and tried again. I like that in a man.ö
While Keitaro couldnÆt help but feel boosted by TsurukoÆs comments, Haruka took a more critical view of them. To her, there was more to the metaphorical arm around the shoulders than met the eye.
Keitaro excused himself and Haruka took this opportunity to question Tsuruko.
ôSo Tsuruko-san, whatÆs with all these questions? If I didnÆt know any better, IÆd say youÆre sizing Keitaro up for wedding ring.ö
Tsuruko met the smokerÆs gaze. ôI suppose that it could seem that way. I canÆt deny that I see some of my late husbandÆs qualities in Keitaro-san; I suppose thatÆs why I wouldnÆt mind Motoko-han and Keitaro getting together.ö
ôLate husband?ö asked the smoker.
ôHe died of meningitis three years ago.ö
ôIÆm sorry to hear that,ö Haruka said sympathetically.
ôThank youàö Tsuruko trailed off as Keitaro returned.
ôIs something wrong?ö the ronin asked picking up that something had been brought up.
ôNo, I was just thinking about the past,ö the widow answered.
Keitaro didnÆt know what to say to that, so he let it drift past him. ôSo, why did Motoko come to stay at the Inn, Tsuruko-san? I donÆt mean to sound horrible, but she made you out to be some sort of tyrant.ö
ôYounger siblings often have exaggerated views of their elders. But she didnÆt get along with my husband. Now that I think about it, it may explain why she didnÆt like Keitaro-san at first.ö
@@@@@
At the Hinata Sou, Naru Narusegawa was looking for Keitaro. She had wanted to go over some of the homework sheÆd been set with him, as heÆd recently covered the same work in his cram school.
The brunette walked into the TV room and looked around.
ôIs something up, Naru-sempai?ö Motoko asked, looking up from the TV.
ôWhereÆs Keitaro?ö
ôHeÆs gone out, why?ö
ôI wanted to ask him about some homework. Wait, gone out? Where?ö Naru asked. ôHe doesnÆt normally go out midweek.ö
ôHeÆs with my sister,ö Motoko admitted.
ôWhy is he out with your sister? They on a date or something?ö
ôNo, Haruka-sanÆs with them. ItÆsà My sister just wanted to talk to them, thatÆs all,ö said the kendoist.
ôHmmàö Naru wasnÆt sure what to make of that. From what Motoko had said about her sister, there was no chance of Keitaro getting away with any of his usual antics. Certainly not with all of his body parts intact, at any rate.
But why would MotokoÆs sister want to talk with Keitaro and Haruka? What would they talk about?
NaruÆs keen mind went over the facts and decided that there was only one conclusion: Keitaro was being interviewed for an arranged marriage to Motoko.
ôM-Motoko-chan, is everything alright between you and Keitaro?ö
ôYes, why do you ask, Naru-sempai?ö
Naru sat down next to Motoko, hoping to keep what she was about to say as secret as she could. ôIà I think that your sister is interviewing Keitaro. I get this horrible feeling that sheÆs trying to get you two engaged.ö
Motoko laughed nervously. ôW-what makes you say that?ö
ôWell, why else would she want to talk to Keitaro and Haruka unless sheÆs laying the foundations for an omiai? It makes perfect sense.ö
ôIt does?ö
ôYes,ö the brunette insisted. ôYouÆre going to be forced into a marriage with Keitaro to satisfy family honour.ö
ôBut why would my sister expect me to marry Keitaro?ö Motoko asked. ôOur families donÆt have any real connection, so itÆs not like weÆd be ending a multi generational feud or cementing political power.ö
ôOhà but the only other reason that I can think of is that your sister and Haruka-san are planning to murder Keitaro and dispose of the body.ö
ôAneue isnÆt carrying any weapons, Naru-sempai.ö
ôThat just helps with her alibi,ö Naru countered. ôThink about it, her sword is here, right, so thereÆs no chance it could be linked to KeitaroÆs death.ö
Motoko shook her head. ôHave you been watching Kitsune-sempaiÆs soap operas again? What would my sister gain from killing Keitaro?ö
ôI donÆt know, but Haruka-san would be next in line to inherit the dormitory, so maybe they agreed to split the proceeds of its sale?ö
The kendoist laughed in disbelief. ôDo you really think that Haruka-san would let anyone murder Keitaro? She might hit him when he calls her æauntÆ, but murder? No, my sister and Haruka-san arenÆt planning to murder Keitaro.ö
ôThen why are they out together?ö Naru asked.
ôPerhaps my sister just wants to get to know Haruka-san better?ö Motoko suggested. She yawned. ôIÆm sorry, IÆm just really tired. My sister insisted that we trained earlier, and it was a bit more vigorous than I was expected.ö
ôOk, but thereÆs something going on here. I can feel it.ö
@@@@@
Back at the restaurant, Keitaro was still visibly tense. Haruka smiled at him to help reassure him.
ôRelax, Keitaro, short of there being a ninja attack, itÆs going to be fine.ö
ôI know, but everyoneÆs looking at me and itÆs making me nervous.ö
ôWould it make you more comfortable if we left?ö the smoker asked.
ôIà Wellà itÆs not that I donÆt like it here, but I donÆt fit in. If IÆd known in advance that we were coming here, I would have dressed more formally,ö the ronin replied. He let out a sigh. ôIÆm very sorry, Tsuruko-san.ö
ôBut our starters havenÆt arrived yet,ö the swordswoman said, a slight frown on her face. ôAnd I worked up a hunger training with Motoko-han earlier.ö
There was a pause before Tsuruko continued. ôIÆm sorry, IÆm being selfish. I wanted to apologise to you both for my sister.ö
ôItÆs alright, Tsuruko-san,ö Keitaro smiled reassuringly as the starters arrived. He took a sniff of his prawn ceviche. ôIÆll endure this hardship for the sake of your feelings.ö
Tsuruko laughed. ôKeitaro-san, I can see why my sisterÆs attitude towards you has softened. YouÆre quite the charmer.ö
ôIà I guess itÆs something of a gift?ö the bespectacled Urashima asked, clearly on unfamiliar ground.
Haruka also let out a chuckle. ôIt is Keitaro. Now, how about we all share the burden of this hardship?ö
@@@@@
A short while later, after the trio had selected the dish of the day, poached salmon with pickled vegetables and rice, they were starting to feel a lot more relaxed. Tsuruko was glad that Keitaro had finally loosened up and started get into the spirit of the evening.
Haruka was also glad that things were improving. She glanced at her wineglass: it had been refilled while she wasnÆt looking. TsurukoÆs had, too.
æAt least Keitaro is keeping to water; I dread to think how much the bill would come to if all three of us were drinking.Æ
ôSo, Tsuruko-san, does your husband mind that youÆve taken another man to dinner?ö Keitaro asked with a teasing smile.
HarukaÆs face fell. æOh shit, Keitaro.Æ
TsurukoÆs expression turned sad and she turned her attention to her wineglass.
The colour drained from the roninÆs face as he realised that heÆd blundered. ôWhat? Oh, you stupid, stupid idiot, Keitaro,ö he muttered. ôIÆm ever so sorry, Tsuruko-san, I didnÆt knowàö
ôItÆs alright, Keitaro-san, you werenÆt here when I told Haruka-san. My husband passed away three years ago.ö
ôIÆm sorry, Tsuruko-san, I just assumed that someone as beautiful as you would be married.ö
Tsuruko cast a glance at Keitaro. She could see that his words were genuine. She picked up her wineglass and took a sip, savouring the taste of the dry white wine. ôThereÆs that charm of yours again, Keitaro-san. ItÆs a heady mixture of honesty, flattery and humility. I think I like it.ö
Keitaro was just glad that he hadnÆt offended Tsuruko. He let out a relieved sigh.
Haruka, whoÆd been silently observing the situation, was curious as to what Tsuruko thought about Keitaro. Tsuruko had seen his willingness to help people he cared about, even if it meant that heÆd have to marry someone; seen his slightly goofy, yet generally positive outlook on life and now, sheÆd seen him have a faux pas.
Though luckily, itÆd been a verbal one rather than him ending up with his face in her lap or his hands inside her kimono.
Keitaro excused himself and the smoker looked at Tsuruko. ôIÆm sorry, Tsuruko-san. Motoko never really talked about your family, so we didnÆt know. KeitaroÆs normally good about not saying the wrong thing.ö
ôI understand, Haruka-san. KeitaroÆs not the malicious type, itÆs justà well, itÆs been three years since Akira died. IÆve been feeling lonely and now I think IÆm ready for another relationship. However, IÆm hardly a prime candidate: a widowed Christmas Cake? Please, even if I wasnÆt 30, I focused on the sword, rather than the kitchen knife.ö
ôAnd what about Keitaro? Where does he fit into tonight?ö
ôAfter getting to know him, I canÆt say that IÆm not glad that my sister isnÆt in a relationship with him,ö the swordswoman admitted, her cheeks acquiring a pink tinge.
ôI see,ö Haruka said before draining her own glass. ôYouÆre not planning to use him to get out of any trouble, are you?ö
ôNo,ö Tsuruko answered truthfully.
ôGood,ö Haruka smiled as Keitaro returned. ôEverything alright, Keitaro?ö
ôYes, IÆm sorry, Tsuruko-san, I didnÆt mean to cause any offence or distress.ö
ôItÆs alright, Keitaro. And now, our main courses have arrived.ö
@@@@@
Kitsune was tired. SheÆd spent most of the day with Shinobu. The morning and early afternoon had been taken up with learning the finer points of food shopping, and the rest of the afternoon and early evening was the discussion of recipes and techniques.
The alcohol-loving girl hadnÆt had to learn this much practical knowledge in some time!
Having brought the lessons to a close, she was in the mood for some fun. A quick check of her finances had ruled out a trip to the liquor store, and she was still a little hesitant to press Keitaro for a few drinks. This left her in the unfortunate situation of needing to find cheap, alcohol-free fun.
ôActually, where is Keitaro?ö she pondered aloud. She hadnÆt seen her landlord since just after breakfast.
Deciding that it was time to unwind, Kitsune left to find her friends. Sauntering down the hallway, the short-haired girl noticed that Naru and Motoko were talking.
ôHey you two,ö she called out. ôHave any of you seen Keitaro lately?ö
ôKeitaro is out at the moment,ö Naru answered, a concerned look on her face.
ôOh? Is something wrong?ö
ôNo, heÆsà wellàö the auburn-haired girl trailed off as she tried to express her concerns to her best friend.
Motoko sighed tiredly. ôKeitaro is out having dinner with my sister and Haruka-san.ö
ôKeitaroÆs on a date with two women? My, my,ö Kitsune teased, knowing full well what effect her words would have on her two friends. ôI guess that threeÆs the magic number when it comes to KeitaroÆs bedàö
Naru scowled. She hadnÆt thought of it that way until now. Her scowl turned into a blush as her mind went over the logistics of such an encounter.
Motoko shook her head. Her sister was a widow, true, but the man Tsuruko had married had very little in common with Keitaro. ôEven though my sister is single, I doubt thatÆs why theyÆre having dinner tonight, Mitsune-sempai.ö
ôDo you know where theyÆre eating?ö
The kendoist paused for a moment as she yawned. ôAmaterasuÆs Garden.ö
ôWait, what? Keitaro is taking a single woman out for dinner to AmaterasuÆs Garden? And you donÆt think that theyÆre going to be ægetting closeÆ? Motoko-chan, tell me youÆre not that na´ve. Please, I have to believe that,ö the ash-blonde replied. ôDo you know how expensive that place is?ö
ôNo, but IÆd imagine itÆs not cheap,ö Motoko answered. ôBesides, Aneue selected it, not Keitaro. You know how his tastes run.ö
Kitsune remained silent for a moment. ôIf Keitaro isnÆt taking your sister out, then someoneÆs apologising for something. AmaterasuÆs Garden makes le HÚraut Culinaire look like a ramen stand!ö
The swordswoman coughed, surprised by her friendÆs suggestion. It was the truth, but how could she admit to that? TheyÆd all ask why her sister is treating Keitaro and Haruka to such a meal. Kitsune would show no mercy with her teasing if she found out that sheÆd lied about being engaged to Keitaro.
ôYou alright there, Motoko-chan?ö asked Naru.
ôYes, just a little more tired than I thought. I think IÆll get an early night,ö Motoko said, rising to her feet. ôI shall see you both in the morning.ö
ôNight,ö Kitsune nodded. When they were alone, she looked at Naru. ôThere is another explanation. For why Keitaro, Haruka-san and Tsuruko-san are out together, you know.ö
ôWell, I thought that too,ö the Toudai-bound girl admitted. ôThe only thing I could see was that Haruka-san was planning to inherit the Inn instead of Keitaro and splitting the money with Tsuruko-san.ö
ôHow would they do that?ö
ôBy removing Keitaroàö
The ash-blonde laughed. ôHaruka-san killing Keitaro? Please, she cares too much about Keitaro to for that. Besides, if she asked Keitaro for something, heÆd give it to her without hesitating.ö
ôI suppose so,ö Naru conceded. There was a momentÆs silence between the two friends. ôWhat were you thinking of?ö
ôWell, itÆs something along the lines of what you were thinking, only less death and moreà you know; older single women, no hope of catching a manàö
Naru looked a little blank.
ôI guess you donÆt know. Two women feel they canÆt get a man, so what they do is find someone else in their position, who understands how they feelàö Kitsune trailed off, hoping her friend would connect the dots. She sighed when Naru failed to pick up her subtle hint.
ôFor the love ofà Basically, they become lesbians, Naru-chan. Geez, since when did you become this dense?ö
@@@@@
To be continuedà
Art Attack
Le ouch... a wee bit harsh on haruka's age and status there.
Heh... considering I doubt either Aoyama need be armed to beat him seven ways from Sunday, I guess I would be nervous what to say to that as well... except woe be anyone attempting anything with her armed or unarmed.
I'm certain I've no clue what that is.
'art' s/b 'part'
There is no easy way to slice it, that does sound bad.
I said it even when I originally read it, but that is a leap, even for her.
And I still seriously doubt that would be all that much a hinderence.
Le ouch... a wee bit harsh on haruka's age and status there.
Heh... considering I doubt either Aoyama need be armed to beat him seven ways from Sunday, I guess I would be nervous what to say to that as well... except woe be anyone attempting anything with her armed or unarmed.
I'm certain I've no clue what that is.
'art' s/b 'part'
There is no easy way to slice it, that does sound bad.
I said it even when I originally read it, but that is a leap, even for her.
And I still seriously doubt that would be all that much a hinderence.