Hako’s Viewpoint:
I typed up the rest of the report and then printed it out. I handed it to Aiko and she looked over it. Flipping the page, she took out her stamp and then placed her approval at the end. I looked at the smiley face indicating Aiko’s signature and then handed it to Rin.
RN: Aiko approved it? Okay. Hako, grab the other report and start editing.
AK: Can’t we take a break yet? I’m so hungry.
RN: Eat a snack. But we’re not off yet so get working.
AK: Fine.
I took the files off the top drawer and then started reading through it. As I did, I checked off the errors in red ink and then slid it over back to Aiko. Aiko quickly read through it and then stamped her approval again. Repeating the process, I handed it to Rin and she placed it in her folder. Rin then stared at me and looked back down at her work.
AK: Hako, we haven’t talked in a long time about anything fun. Let’s tell personal stories.
H: Um, what did you have in mind?
AK: Your background. I haven’t learned about that yet.
H: My background? I don’t think you want to hear it.
AK: Oh, but I do! I’ll start first so you can get into it.
H: Sure. I would be interested in hearing that.
AK: Where should I start? Let’s start with my childhood. Rin has always been like this. Ever since I remembered, Rin has been distant and cold. But I’ve always been like this, too. Bubbly and energetic. I think you know about our family, right, Hako?
H: I believe your parents are the founders of Souhou Corporation?
AK: Ding, ding, ding! That’s correct. Our parents were pretty serious so maybe that’s why Rin is so stiff and cold. But somewhere inside, she has that energy like me. I don’t even know how we’re so different. Guess my personality just couldn’t take wheat my parents offered. But I still get work done so it’s fine.
RN: Story time, Aiko? Really?
H: Our work is almost done, right?
RN: Fine. But don’t slack off. Still, go on if you wish.
H: That’s rare. Now you’re actually allowing us to talk?
RN: As long as it doesn’t stop work from being done. I won’t get on you for that.
H: Thank you for your consideration.
AK: Hako, have you ever injured yourself badly?
H: Like a broken arm or something like that?
AK: Yeah.
H: I’ve injured my right shoulder and leg before. Is that what you were asking?
AK: When I was younger, I fell off a tree when I was climbing it and was in the hospital for three months. Rin didn’t even see me once. I felt so sad and when I returned home, I was really mad. Rin just stared at me and then didn’t even say anything nice. I think maybe that was when a distance first started to form between us. I knew that our parents favored Rin over me but still, it hurt. But I found out that Rin was doing training the entire time I was in the hospital so I forgave her. But I still feel that distance sometimes. You know, Hako, this is the first time I’ve ever told anyone this story.
RN: Do you really feel that way, Aiko?
AK: Sometimes but is not as bad anymore. Since we’re together so much now.
RN: I guess we should talk about it later.
H: I think maybe I should leave.
AK: No, stay here! This is important.
H: Alright.
RN: But Aiko, I think if you’ll that story, I should tell one of my own.
H: Uh, are you sure? I feel this is getting personal.
AK: No, it’s fine. Stay here. It’s probably because you’re here, we can finally let loose.
RN: I remember when you were injured and I knew you were mad about that. But I remember when I was eleven and you invited your friends over for a tea party. Because Mom and Dad had already picked me to be the successor to the company, I was under so much pressure and had so many things to learn. When I saw you with your friends, I was so jealous, Aiko! I never could be so outgoing and sociable as you are. All I know is business etiquette. And even now, it’s the same! I envy you too, Aiko!
AK: You do?
RN: Of course. My personality makes it so hard for me to be like you. So don’t be so jealous of me. We both are and I think we need to change that.
AK: You’re right. Rin, thank you for being my sister. I love you.
RN: As do I. Looks like we’ve solved a big problem we had. Hako, seems like your presence here had made it possible. I must thank you for that but only once.
AK: Man, that was too sad and gloomy! Let’s go back to the original topic. Hako, what about you? It’s your turn now.
H: I grew up here but my parents were in different circumstances. My dad was born in Korea and then moved over to Vietnam during a military offensive. The EU was cracking down on troops and without support from Japan, he needed to regroup so he chose Vietnam. The Korean Intelligence Force was supposed to send in a rescue party but it never came. So my dad stayed in Vietnam for over five years and met my mom there. And that’s about it.
AK: That’s pretty interesting. So that’s why you’re in “there” now.
RN: It brings clarity to the quirks of your personality. Interesting story.
H: Is that all you wanted?
AK: It passed the time. Let’s finish this up.
The clock finally struck 6:00 PM and we all prepared to return back to the dormitory. Aiko and Rin exited together and I remained behind to clean up the room. Today was an interesting day. I learned a lot about the twin’s background and felt that our overall relationship deepened.
Seiji’s Viewpoint;
I finished changing and then returned back to the dormitory. As I walked on the lit path from the sports facility to home, I heard a rustle of the tree leaves. I took no notice but then saw a shadow pass by. I stopped and then looked around. I saw Kenshin walk out from behind a tree and she approached me, her eyes closed.
SJ: Kenshin? Is that you?
SG: Hey, Seiji. It’s a nice evening.
SJ: It is. Were you behind a tree just now?
SG: Yeah. I was lost in the darkness for awhile and found the walking path again.
SJ: Okay. Are you hurt?
SG: Yeah. Are you heading back?
SJ: Just got out of practice. Were you trying to go somewhere?
SG: No. I was just wandering around and stumbled onto you.
SJ: That’s a coincidence then. Do you want to walk back together, then?
SG: Yeah. That sounds like a great idea.
SJ: Kenshin, what do you usually around this time?
SG: Usually, I’m in the room with Konomu but I wanted to take a walk tonight.
SJ: It’s a nice night for a walk. I mean, I guess you can’t see the stars but you feel the breeze.
SG: I agree. How is your season so far?
SJ: It’s good. Nakadachi’s been off his game a little but we should do well. Kenshin, how’s the pace, too fast?
SG: No, it’s fine. I can hear your footsteps so I can match it.
SJ: I still find It amazing that you can do everything so well without your sight.
SG: Really? It’s not that hard.
SJ: I think it is but I guess it’s different for you since you’re used to it.
SG: I don’t know. I guess that not being able to see is a good thing sometimes. You hear more things so you’re more connected to the world. It’s just my opinion.
SJ: I could see why you’d prefer that.
As we approached the gate to the dormitory, I saw Mikoto out in the front, sitting down on the ground and using a tree as her back support. Kenshin stopped and then tapped her walking cane. I looked at her as she moved to the front of the gate and then with the flick of her cane, opened the gates for entry. I walked in and saw Mikoto stand up.
M: Seiji, you’re back.
SG: Oogane?
M: Kenshin, you’re here too. I thought you were in your room. Hisoyaka has been looking for you.
SG: Really? I guess I should get back. I’ll see you later, Seiji.
I watched Kenshin run into the dormitory and then saw Mikoto stare at her. Sitting down next to Mikoto, I looked at what she was doing.
SJ: Homework?
M: Oh no, just a little side hobby of mine.
SJ: A hobby?
M: I like to look at the stars in the evening and write short stories based on what I see. It’s silly really but I feel something when I write.
SJ: Writing? Sounds like something that Ryuu would do.
M: Ryuu? Hmm, I guess you’re right.
SJ: So you’re out here writing? I’m surprised no one talks about it. I would have heard rumors of the great Oogane doing something like that.
M: Stop. People don’t care about stuff like that.
SJ: Sure strange seeing Kenshin though. She just popped right out of the trees almost as if she were waiting there.
M: Because she was.
SJ: What?
M: She was waiting there for you. You didn’t know?
SJ: No. I almost never see Kenshin unless she’s in the hallway or at one of my games.
M: Don’t you find that strange? How she’s at your games so much?
SJ: I guess but a lot of our students are there.
M: Well, I guess I should tell you this, Seiji. She’s stalking you.
SJ: What? Kenshin stalking me? I’ve had fans before but it’s not that bad. Are you sure, Mikoto?
M: Yeah. I am. Why do you think that she was here tonight? It’s strange to be behind a tree. No normal person does that even when they’re lost. But I know Kenshin would never get lost. She knows the entire layout of the school back and forth. Since our first year, she walked around without any trouble. It would be strange if she claimed that she was lost. That path, she’s walked across it several times.
SJ: What, this is really weird. Why would she stalk me, though? Does she like me that much?
M: Seiji, you’re a dumbass. You’re like Nakadachi sometimes in situations like these. Of course, she likes you, idiot!
SJ: So mean, Mikoto.
M: I’m telling you the truth. Besides, you should be fine with the way I talk now. I’m meaner as the season drags on.
SJ: True but this is a shock to me. I didn’t know.
M: Don’t worry about it. She’ll lay off when I talk to her.
SJ: I feel like I should be the one to talk to her.
M: No. I’ll do it. You just relax, Seiji.
SJ: No, it’s my responsibility.
M: I’m telling you, Seiji. Let me handle this or I’ll punish you.
SJ: I still think-
Before I finished my sentence, Mikoto hit my stomach with a low punch. I clutched my stomach and dropped to the ground. Mikoto stared at me and then walked back to the tree to retrieve her materials.
M: Leave it to me, okay? Or it’ll be worse than a punch. I’m in judo too so I can take you on.
SJ: Fine. Damn that hurt.
M: Good. Now I’ll be off. It’ll all be taken care of tomorrow.
SJ: Thanks, I guess.
M: No problem.
I looked up at the sky and then sat down where Mikoto was a few minutes ago. Leaning my back against the tree, I looked up at the skies and then closed my eyes. I was surprised to learn that I had a stalker but more than that, the dynamic between Mikoto and me was shifting. It would appear that I might have to make a decision soon.
Konomu’s Viewpoint:
I saw Shitagou enter the room and I stood up. She leaned her walking can against the wall and then sat down on her bed.
K: Where have you been? It’s almost curfew.
SG: Ah, I was outside taking a stroll.
K: Is that the truth?
SG: It is.
There was a knock on the door and I looked into the peephole. I saw Oogane standing outside and I opened the door.
K: Oogane, how can I help you tonight?
M: Please just call me Mikoto. It’s easier for everyone that way. Is it okay if I call you Konomu?
K: Go ahead. I have no problem with that. Shitagou, we have a visitor, it’s Mikoto.
SG: Oogane? I thought you were still with Seiji.
M: I actually wanted to talk to you about Seiji.
I looked at Shitagou and her expression remained the same. I nodded to myself and thought that her training still played a major role in her personality. But I thought about the impending conversation and started to head towards the door.
M: Konomu, you don’t have to leave. Actually I would prefer if you served as the mediator here.
K: A mediator? Alright, I’ll do it.
M: Shitagou, its okay if I call you that, right?
SG: It’s fine.
M: Anyway, Shitagou, I would like to talk to you about Seiji.
SG: What about Seiji?
M: Your stalking issue.
I stared at Shitagou again but her expression revealed nothing. She stood up and then paced around the coffee table.
SG: What of my stalking, Mikoto?
M: I want you to stop.
SG: But what personal problem do you have with my stalking?
M: It’s too stifling. You’ll make Seiji confused.
SG: What’s to say the confusion is not a result of you but you’re pushing the blame on me?
M: I know because I’ve been the sports manager for two years. I think I would know his personality better than anyone else.
SG: I can’t deny that fact buy you see with your eyes rather than with your other sense. Through those, I believe my understanding of Seiji is more solid than your perception of him through sight.
K: While this is all fun, I believe we should move ahead and finish this as quick as possible.
M: Agreed. I won’t leave until you agree, Shitagou. I will stay here all night if I must.
SG: No. I refuse to your terms.
K: Looks like I’m needed now. Look, Mikoto, I understand why you would want Shitagou to lay off her stalking. But I think you’re being a little unfair there. Shitagou has a right to chase Seiji but stalking may be a bad way of going about it. So here’s the compromise I’ll propose. Shitagou ceases her stalking and finds Seiji through genuine ways like through talking or dates while Mikoto allows Seiji to make the final call. Fine?
M: I could go with that.
SG: Seems a little unfair but I’ll agree. Mikoto, handshake?
M: Let’s seal the agreement then. Konomu, you’ll be the witness.
K: Of course I’ll even take a picture.
I snapped a picture of Mikoto and Shitagou shaking hands. I then had both of them signed their names on the back of photo with a statement affirming their decision. I placed my own stamp on the back and then shoved it into the drawer.
K: Well, I believe we are done. Mikoto, are you done or is there anything else?
M: I’m fine. I think it’s all sorted out. I’ll leave now.
Mikoto left the room and I fell back on my bed, tired from the day’s events. Shitagou turned off the lights. I saw her eyes open and look at me. I knew she was using the sound to direct her gaze.
SG: Konomu, thank you.
K: I didn’t do anything.
SG: No, you did. I have to thank you.
K: If you want to. I’m tired. Let’s just sleep now.
SG: Konomu, about Ryuu…
K: What about him?
SG: Setsuhi, well Yoshimura, if we’re being formal she seems dangerous.
K: Yes, she is. I would agree.
SG: So, why not make a move on him then? Save him from the danger… no dragon. An ironic statement.
K: No. It’s his own choice. Ryuu will do what he wants. I’ve known him since the first year of middle school and he hasn’t changed a lot. If he wants to inherit a project, then let him do it. But I think that Setsuhi will be a dangerous one to try.
SG: Konomu, I know that you would want to help Ryuu but you’ll let him choose his own path?
K: Yes. Ryuu is fine as long as he has Itsuki and his other friends. Itsuki will keep him in check for as long as I’ve known them.
SG: Fair enough. Konomu, good night.
K: Yeah. Good night.
As I lay on the bed, I turned to the side and looked at the wall. If Ryuu insisted on choosing Setsuhi, he would be in trouble. But I would have no choice but to allow him. I warned him so it was up to him to analyze. I’d like to believe he would select the correct choice but I had doubts. I sighed and then closed my eyes, shutting my thinking off.
January 2020
Ryuu’s Viewpoint:
With the new year passing, I stretched in the restaurant and walked around, checking on the customers. I grabbed the dish that Itsuki made and presented it to the customers. They nodded and then ate the food with zest. I saw their nose twitch at the smell of the food and I wrote a small note, reminding myself to thank Itsuki later. Boss walked around the restaurant as well and he pulled me aside when the customers started to diminish.
B: Ryuu, I have to warn you but be careful.
R: I’ve heard. Itsuki had an incident last month, right?
B: He did. The NPA appears to be coming after you now.
R: I knew it was only a matter of time. We’ll need to prepare.
B:THe restaurant will monitor the people coming in. Don’t worry just yet.
R: Thanks for the warning, Boss.
B: Itsuki and you should be prepared to head out if it gets worse.
R: No, I don’t think we will. We’ll be fine.
B: If you say so. There’s only so much I can do to protect you before they bust me.
R: No. I have to thank you for all you’ve done.
B: Please. I’m only making a debt up from Old Stone.
R: But you didn’t have to. You still chose to take us.
B: Guess you have potential, kid. I’m sure that’s what Stone says too.
R: He does.
B: Alright, let’s get back to work, kid. Here’s a customer.
I turned around and saw Setsuhi in her school uniform walk in. She stared up and then without any emotion, beckoned me over. The Boss watched me walked over and I pulled out my notepad.
R: Hello. Welcome to our shop today. I’m Tatsumaki Ryuu, what would you like to order?
S2: Ryuu. I came here as a courtesy call.
R: Ma’am, please select something from the menu. I can’t write down anything if you don’t pick one.
S2: I’ll pick the fried rice with the spicy tofu, shrimp, and sausage.
R: Right away.
S2: Please get me a bottle of hot sauce as well.
R: Of course.
I gave the order to the kitchen and then arrived back at the table with the hot sauce. I placed it in front of Setsuhi and then checked the tea pot. There were no tea leaves inside and I looked at the boss. He smiled and I sighed.
R: What type of tea would you like, Setsuhi?
S2: I’ll take chrysanthemum. Please fill it up with at least five flowers.
R: We will try our hardest to fulfill your wishes.
I went to the kitchen and then pulled Itsuki aside. He started chopping the vegetables for Setsuhi’s dish and he stared up at me once in awhile.
R: Well, I’m surprised that Setsuhi decided to even come here of all places.
I: It may be a sign.
R: What kind of sign are you thinking?
I: I don’t know. I tried to sound cool but it didn’t really work.
R: It’s fine. But it’s still strange that she’s here.
I: Go back and figure it out, Ryuu. You can do it.
I poured the flowers into the tea pot and then filled the pot with hot water. Carefully stirring the water, I carried it back to Setsuhi’s table. She looked up and then wiped her cup off.
S2: You’re late, Ryuu.
R: I’m very sorry about that, Setsuhi. I’ll try to be more punctual next time.
S2: No matter. The tea is good.
R: Setsuhi, why are you here?
S2: Like I said before, courtesy call. It’s not good news but I’m sure you’ll have a good time.
R: Really? And how would that work?
S2: You’re being chased, Ryuu. Don’t be weak when stepping outside. You’ll need all your strength.
R: Why tell me at all then?
S2: I’d like to observe something.
R: It’s a rather strange reason.
S2: Be grateful that I even showed up.
R: Thank you, Setsuhi, as a bonus I will throw in a free dessert for you.
S2: There’s no need. I only want to see your combat skills in return.
R: Seems like a trap.
S2: Choose to believe it or not, Ryuu. Either way, you’ll have to fight so don’t complain if you get your ass beat.
R: I’ll choose to believe you, Setsuhi.
S2: Hmm, your gullibility is always admirable, Ryuu.
R: I would rather fight than choose to remain here, waiting to be killed.
S2: A good choice, Ryuu.
Boss walked up and took over my role as the waiter and assistant. I took off my vest and then rolled up my sleeves. Itsuki tossed me a butcher knife and I strapped it to the back of my belt. Boss walked in and then handed me a flip blade.
B: Use it if you wish. It’s my personal weapon.
I nodded and then hooked it to my belt as well. Itsuki patted my shoulder and then continued his work.
I: Be careful.
R: I know. Take care of Setsuhi’s order even if she’ll be outside.
I: Still worried about her even like this? Man, you’re too nice, Ryuu.
R: It’s not like we have any customers coming in. She’ll pay.
B: It’s true. Even if she’s baiting Ryuu, she’s still a paying customer so we’ll fulfill her order.
R: I’m heading out.
I walked down from the back entrance and then slid down into the alley. I saw five suited men with their hands in their pockets. I looked at them one by one and then leaned against the wall.
R: So, nice to meet you, I’m Tatsumaki Ryuu. How can I help you today?
A1: Die!
He charged at me and I pulled out the butcher knife. Trying to avoid damaging him with the blade, I used the handle to strike his neck and as he moved back to deflect, I kicked his legs. He fell down on his face. The second man rushed forward and I kicked his legs with my hands still in my pockets. He fell and I then grabbed the back of his arms and slammed his face into the back of his comrade. The third and fourth men rushed this time and I pulled out Boss’ blade. Aiming and adjusting the angle, I hurled the knife. It curved and slashed through the two men’s arms. I caught the blade in mid-air and then slammed the other two men onto the floor. The last one looked around and then pulled out a handgun.
S2: What will you do, Ryuu?
The man aimed his handgun at Setsuhi and she was about to pull out her own weapon but I disarmed him. Kicking the gun out of his hand, I then delivered a punch to his face and as the gun dropped down; I caught and smacked his face with the barrel.
R: Setsuhi, are you okay?
S2: I was always. There was never any threat.
R: Your bait turned on you.
S2: It’s to be expected. They’re not NPA. Ryuu, I will see you tomorrow.
R: You forgot your food.
S2: I have it bagged and ready to go. Don’t worry about that. They’ll be disposed of.
R: How?
S2: Just go back they’ll be disposed of like I said. It won’t be death.
R: Fine. I’ll leave it to you then, Setsuhi.
S2: I appreciate it, Ryuu.
Walking back up to the restaurant, I saw Boss in the doorway. He looked at me and then smiled. I placed his knife back into his hand and then returned the butcher knife.
I: Good job, Ryuu.
B: She’s going to be after you now.
R: I know. But that’s expected.
I: Your life is going to change.
R: It’s not too bad.
I washed the dirt and blood off my hands. As I watched the dirt and blood spiral down the drain, I looked up and splashed water in my face. I realized during the fight, I was out of shape. If Setsuhi truly wanted to hunt me, I would have stood little chance of actually beating her. Setsuhi’s movements were swift and controlled. I saw that with only the movement of Setsuhi beginning to pull out her weapon. There would be trouble ahead.
Lantern Dragon Works 