So as much as I hate writing, (as in pen to paper or in this case pencil) I’ve found it’s come a bit smoother. I did this entire chapter in a notebook, which was really horrible to type out considering that this is a longer one. As for why it was just a combination of waiting for a package while wanting to write in the other room, and chronic lethargy in front of my PC but not with a notebook in my bed.

I did find that my quality may be a little better because of this though, as I tend to proof read better. A downside is after typing it at insane speeds, (somehow my typos were fewer in number than I’d imagine,) I’ve only skim proof read the typed version.

One last note; when I thought I’d do a Halloween one, this wasn’t what I imagined, though that’s not a bad thing! Also 34 written pages = about 12 in word. Also, reading my handwriting gave me a headache. Update note: On the fun side, this is later than I wanted because I just went to publish it and got 404 error; hope that’s fixed soon. (Though reading this means it is.)

Episode 32 – Holliday

“Huh?” Alec opened his eyes as the alarm rang. No one woke me up for once. I think this is the first time that the alarm actually rang. He yawned and slowly got out of his bed. He fell into his normal black-wear and stepped out of his room.

“Huh?” He repeated himself. The halls were dark, lit only by dim candles on the walls. “I’m not trapped again?” He muttered to himself as he reached out and realized that the candles were plastic, flickering lights. “Decorations?” He sighed again and made his way downstairs towards the kitchen. He paused at the living room.

“Huh?” He stated for the third time. The room had thick, black curtains covering the windows. There were a series of orange pumpkin lights draped below the television on the small stand that held it. There were several cobwebs draped off various parts of the ceiling and a large skeleton hanging by a rope around its neck behind the couch.

“I think,” He paused to take some similar scenery in the kitchen. A large, plastic chandelier lit the room instead of the normal lighting. “You overdid it.” He finished. Seito was wearing a plain, black one piece dress, luckily in her female form, with a long blue tail sticking out the back and large, matching wings. Iris was wearing her normal full-body outfit, this time it was a dark orange. The large open rose on her head was also a matching color. His mother had a classic red and white miko outfit on, while Suzu wore a simple black dress with her silver wings and tail peeking out. His glance fell lastly on Sylvia and Ayami, who were separated.

Ayami wore a bright, white sleeve-less dress, while Sylvia wore a black shirt that went to her navel, matching tight shorts, leather gloves and angle-length boots. Ayami had a halo and two white wings attached to her outfit, while Sylvia had a familiarly shaped set of blue wings and matching tail.

“You went way too far.” Alec sighed. “What’s with that?” He motioned to Sylvia. “Someone might get offended.”

“I like it.” Suzu muttered as she placed some pancakes on the table.

“Ayami really wanted her own costume, so we decided on a twin theme.”

“It says something when you pick the devil.”

“Hey!”

“So she’s still avoiding me?” Alec asked softly. It had already been near two weeks and he only had seen her at school.

“I have been developing a solution to remedy this situation.” Suzu answered.

“Oh? Just what do you mean?”

“Since it is in the early stages I cannot say.”

“That’s not reassuring.” Alec frowned.

“She would get wind of my plans if I told someone. I wish to cheer her up but it is difficult given her personality.”

“Ha…”

“Anyway, we need to get going.” Sylvia stated. “We have to work on getting the classroom ready.”

“Why a café? Isn’t that extremely cliché?” Alec asked.

“We couldn’t do a haunted house.” Sylvia shivered. “Luckily it was taken as our class would take it too seriously. It doesn’t help I hate scary things.” Sylvia muttered.

“I’m going to ignore the ghost saying that.” Alec shook his head and silently followed the group outside.

“Why aren’t you wearing a costume? Since you’re human I was looking forward to it.” Mia frowned at the normally dressed Alec.

“He hasn’t decided.” Sylvia pouted.

“Eh?” Mai glared at Sylvia who wore a similar outfit as hers, except that Mai’s was leather instead of cloth. “Are you trying to start a fight?” She growled.

“It’s a theme!” Sylvia wrapped her arm around Ayami.

“A set.” Ayami echoed softly. Alec sighed as they continued their walk towards school.

“So any ideas on costumes?” Mia asked. “If you don’t have any features like this,” She pointed at her wings, “You need a costume for the festival.”

“Really?” Alec rubbed his forehead. “Despite my past hobbies, I never cared for costumes.”

---

“I don’t like it.” Celina stared at her daughter.

“You’re the one always telling me to be more natural.”

“I was talking about your wings; of course those are cute! Though your outfit…” She frowned at the black, normal outfit. “Even Mia is wearing a succubus outfit! It’s really good for showing off!” She thrust her chest forward.

“Mother, that is just plain disturbing. Besides, I have nothing I wish to show off.”

“Eh? You’re so cute though… I like humans but you follow some of their more prudish values too much. Wait, we got off track… I don’t like how much you’re moping about.”

“I am not ‘moping’ mother.”

“Can’t you at least shorten it to ‘mom’?” She sighed softly. “Then why are you here now? Shouldn’t you be walking to school with Alec and everyone? Did something happen between you two?”

“No. I just believe he could use some space. I don’t need to always be around him.”

“So nothing happened and that’s why you’re upset?” She grinned but just got a blank stare as a response. “You say that but Suzu is guarding him now. Though she didn’t seem to mind. I swear that boy has some incubus blood in him.”

“I do not need to constantly be near him.” Celeste repeated.

“He’s the first real friend you’ve made. It’s great you’re so close to your family but you finally had a friend! Ever since you’ve met him you’ve been happier as well.”

“Stop putting your wishes upon our relationship.” Celeste stated as she moved towards the kitchen door.

“It’s because you’ve realized you love him, isn’t it?”

“Huh?” Celeste turned around with a dropped jaw as she glared at her mother. “Stop pushing your ridiculous fantasies onto me.”

“What happened six years ago wasn’t your fault. You need to move onward and open up. Your more mature now so something like that won’t happen again.”

“I’ve had enough.” Celeste turned and stormed out of the kitchen, the force of the slammed door caused the house to shake slightly.

“She’s at such a difficult age.” Celina sighed. “She can be so mature yet also so immature.”

---

“This doesn’t look like our class at all.” Alec commented. The desks were gone and several tables were spread throughout the room. There was a small counter blocking the way to another room. “I didn’t even know there was a room back there.” Alec blinked.

“It’s a large storage closet. All the boys will be doing the cooking in there.”

“The boys?”

“The girls will be the waitresses, of course!”

“That seems a bit sexist.” Alec frowned.

“Ha! I don’t want to hear that from someone who surrounds himself with girls.” Mai scoffed.

“It’s not on purpose. A succubus shouldn’t tell me that anyway.” Mai growled as a response and took a seat. Iris and Ayami started to help with organizing the decorations. Alec glanced around at everyone’s “costumes”. Yuki had her usual white kimono on, only with her bushy tail and matching white ears poking through. Yami was in the same condition, only black, which was normal for her as she was usually unseen anyway. Even Kuroi had some added flare with his normal black wear in the form of a cape. Alec’s gaze finally fell on the last visible classmate.

“Ha!” He burst out laughing as he realized who was in the costume. It was a shorter person completely wrapped in “mummy” bandages. Despite all identifying features being covered up, one identifying object remained, namely his hat. The familiar folded over, pointed black hat remained on his head. “Hikaru!”

“What’s your problem?” Hikaru growled at him from under the wrappings.

“Why?” Alec muttered between gasps for air.

“I’ve always wanted to try a mummy costume.” He scoffed. “Besides, my lovelies thought a mummy costume would be cute.”

“I guess you mean them,” He glanced at the succubus twins, “But I think Mai just wanted you to cover your face.”

“I don’t need to hear this from you.” He growled and went into the back room.

“Actually, have you seen Xavier?” He turned towards Sylvia. “He’s been avoiding us.”

“He still hits on us.” Sylvia muttered.

“I won’t worry about it then. What are the other classes doing?”

“There’s a haunted house, they switch to a courage test at night, and there’s several kinds of food shops.”

“Haunted house… normally I’d want to go, but with these people…”

“That’s true; who knows what kinds of things they’d pull.” Sylvia shivered. “I hate scary things like that.”

Ignore it; ignore the ghost that hates scary things.

“It’s weird to think that it’s still a week until Halloween with all this commotion.” Sylvia stated. “Still, we need to find you a costume.” Sylvia squinted at him.

“His costumes will be taken care of.” Suzu stated.

“Okay, that can’t be a good thing.” Alec slumped slightly.

“Tomorrow is the first day of the festivities.” Suzu stated. “Not everyone will be needed either.” She stared intently at Alec.

“I really don’t like that.”

“Me either.” Sylvia frowned. Their conversation stopped as Celeste entered the room.

“You’re late.” Alec stepped in her path.

“We can come and leave as needed for the preparations.” She answered coldly.

“I shouldn’t say anything considering my position, but you’re been rather cold to everyone, especially Alec.” Sylvia scolded her.

“How I act is no business of yours.”

“Ha!” Sylvia scoffed at her. “That is the dumbest thing you’ve ever said.”

“Insults will not change anything.” Celeste responded coldly.

“I don’t know why you’re suddenly acting like this,” Alec started, “But I’m sick of it. It feels unnatural and no matter how cold you act, I can tell that doing this bothers you.”

“I can see that the preparations are well-handled.” She stated and quickly left.

“I’d rather have her yell or something other than avoiding it.” Alec frowned.

“I already have a solution.” Suzu grabbed Sylvia’s arm, pausing to frown as her arm went through her. “You may be reluctant, but I require your assistance.” She glanced at Alec. “As for you,” Suzu stated ominously as she headed out with Sylvia, “Be prepared for tomorrow.”

“Okay, it’s just sounding worse and worse.”

---

I had a horrible dream. Alec frowned as he slowly woke up. Though I think that dream may come true. The thought of trying on costumes made him shiver.

“You’re awake.” Suzu stated.

“Why are you always in here when I wake up? People will talk you know; especially the ones around here.”

“I’ve never really had a real brother.” She stated softly.

“Huh?” He sat up in the bed and stared at the girl sitting on the edge of his bed.

“Unlike my sister, I am honest with myself. Anyway, I have one brother on my mother’s side I’ve never met. As for my father’s side, my family isn’t that close. It is just nice to have someone like you around.”

“I don’t know how to respond to that.”

“Just think that you have a cute little sister now.” Despite the fact her voice never changed, Alec somehow picked up the playfulness of her tone.

I’m a little worried I’m starting to under stand her.

“Don’t worry; thanks to my sister I won’t fall for you.”

“What do you mean by that?”

“You’re awake!” This time it was Sylvia that spoke as she came into the room, still in her “devil” outfit, and carrying a large box.

“That’s… Why are you such a costume maniac anyway?”

“I’m not a costume maniac! There’s nothing weird about a girl liking to dress up!”

“There’s definitely something wrong…”

“This is a one time deal.” Sylvia stated. “I don’t like helping my rival, but she’s still my friend.”

“What do you mean by that?” Alec frowned as he realized he’d asked that several times over the past few days.

“Never mind that.” She placed the box on the floor and the two girls started rummaging through it. “Hey, this might be good.”

“Let me try it on.” Suzu stated as the two turned towards Alec.

“It was a premonition…” He gulped softly.

---

“It looks good.” The two held Alec in front of the mirror.

“After all that commotion about my costume, this is what I’m wearing? Rather, it’d be somewhat cute if I was a girl, but this just looks wrong.” He frowned at his mirror image. He had a shaggy, orange wig stuck on his head, as well as three whiskers painted on either side of his face. The wig had included orange cat ears, and they had even attached a tail to his pants. “I feel like I’m five.”

“Cute? Maybe I should have gone with it… Anyway, we were going to go with the succubus-demon look, but it’s far too common here.”

“Out of all the choices, this was the cutest.” Suzu deadpanned.

“I don’t know how to respond to you anymore.” Alec sighed.

“Let’s get going then!” Sylvia and Suzu surrounded him and lead him downstairs.

“Where is everyone?” He found the kitchen empty as he was lead past it.

“Your mother is at the store,” Sylvia stated as Ayami opened the door, casting a long gaze at Alec as she did, “Everyone else is already gone.”

“Already there.” Ayami echoed.

“I know you tend to echo Sylvia’s speech, but I can’t help but think that was a comment on my costume.” He frowned as Ayami got a large, devilish grin that contrasted her angelic outfit.

“You’re getting good at understanding her.” Sylvia beamed.

“That isn’t comforting.” Alec muttered and continued on the path to school with them to school until they reached the classroom.

“Ah, you’re here!” Iris stated as they entered. “I guess it is too early for customers.”

Where’s your computer?” Alec asked as Iris had her hands free.

“I have a small speaker near my mouth,” Iris answered, “I use my hands normally as vine-typing tends to disturb people, so it’s hidden right now.

“I won’t ask further; rather I should never ask these things. So, what do I need to help with?”

“Help Suzu bring some supplies up from the cafeteria.” Iris stated.

“Let’s go.” Sylvia grabbed him before he could respond and dragged him to the kitchen. They came to a stop at the doorway.

“Suzu?” Celeste frowned as her sister removed her from the kitchen and placed her beside Alec.

“Ayami is taking Alec’s place, I’m taking yours. You are both to go enjoy the festivities together. Separate for more than the bathroom and you’ll be punished.” Suzu warned.

“Just what is,” Celeste was interrupted as Suzu slammed the kitchen door. “The meaning of this?” She finished. She glanced over at Alec, who in turned glanced at Sylvia to find her missing.

“I didn’t have any part in this.” He defended himself.

“I was more concerned about that outfit.” She stared at the cat costume.

“I didn’t have a part in this either.” He shook his head. “I fear the bad things that will happen if I remove it though.”

“I guess I have no choice.” She raised her hand to her mouth when Alec grabbed her arm. “What are you doing?”

“I could ask you the same. I don’t think you should damage school property just to get away from me.” Celeste started at him for a moment before lowering her arm.

“Can you tell me why you’re avoiding me?”

“I am not avoiding you, I am just busy.”

“I just don’t get why you keep denying it, but they wouldn’t have gone through this if that was true. I know neither of us is that used to having friends, but we shouldn’t waste it. Let’s look around.” Celeste continued to stare at him for several moments.

“I guess we should go then.”

“You don’t have to be that reluctant. Also, I have this feeling that you want to say something about my outfit.”

“Nonsense.” She stated as she lead the way out of the auditorium.

“Where should we go first? I actually don’t know anyone outside out own class.”

“There are several booths set up in the courtyard.” Celeste continued to lead the way as she headed outside to find a large series of booths on either side of them.

“This looks more like a carnival than a school festival.”

“This is the only time of year outsiders are freely allowed here. Because of all the tourism, we are able to use a lot of resources.” Celeste explained.

“Oh, how about this? I’ve always wanted to try goldfish scooping since you always see it in anime.” He commented. “Actually, isn’t this a Halloween festival?”

“It is also an October festival with traditions from around the world like this.”

“I see.” He blinked as they approached the gold fishing stand and he recognized the person running it. Namely it was a person with more realistic features than his own costume, and she was staring intently into the water.

“Hanna,” Celeste frowned, “You’re not helping any stereotypes.”

“Oh! Celeste…” She glanced over at Alec. “She slowly stood up and moved towards him. “Oh? I had no idea! You’re actually pretty cute…”

“Please don’t harass your students. Besides, that’s a costume.”

“Aw, really? I should have known.” She sighed softly. “What a disappointment.”

“We’d like to actually try.” Celeste pointed towards the water.

“Oh, right.” She moved out of the way. “Since you’re students it’s all free!” She handed them each a scoop. “Well, within reason.” She winked.

“Anyway, let’s give it a try.” Alec leaned over the clam pool. He stared intently at the water, holding the small paper scoop at the ready. A swift moment later he had a large hole in the scoop.

“Is it the movement, not the speed.” Celeste stated as she moved in after he stepped away. A moment later and she easily flung a fish into the small bowl. She gently returned the fish back to the small pond.

“You could have given it to me if you didn’t want it.” Hanna muttered.

“Pretty good.” Alec chuckled and tried a couple more times but wasn’t able to mimic Celeste’s movements. “I give up.” He frowned.

“Let’s try a food stand next.” Celeste suggested. They glanced around a moment before Celeste decided on a destination. She dragged him towards her target.

“Pancakes?” Alec asked.

“I am anxious to compare them with mine.” She answered.

“Oh? I make pretty mean pancakes!”

“Luna?” He glanced over at the teacher. She was wearing a long dress with floral print, with two, feathered, pale yellow wings behind her. “Couldn’t you have least worn something to fit an angel look?”

“I’m not an angel, I’m a phoenix! Technically I don’t even wear clothes.”

“I should learn not to comment.” Alec sighed.

“You’ve been busy lately Alec! We need to have more lessons.” She winked as she gave them each a plate with a couple cakes on it. “These are blueberry, and there’s syrup over here!” She motioned to the small counter.

“This isn’t too bad.” Celeste muttered reluctantly.

“You don’t have to be shy, you can be honest!” Luna grinned.

“These are great!” Alec exclaimed as he took a bit. He slowly glanced over at Celeste. “Now as good as yours!” He laughed nervously but she just returned a silent gaze.

“Oh? Maybe you can teach me a thing or two?” Luna grinned broadly and then sighed as Celeste didn’t take her bait. “Nice to see you guys made up though; I was a bit worried.”

“Let’s go.” Celeste slammed her fork on the counter and moved away.

“Try to be a bit more honest!” Luna called as they disappeared from her sight.

“That person is too nosy. How did such a person become an instructor?”

“She’s actually a really good teacher.” Alec stated. “She’s also a carrying person, even if she is a bit off.”

“That woman is irritating.” Celeste stated.

“Is it because she’s so good at seeing through you?”

“Let us go here.” They stood outside the doors of the gym. “It has been converted into a haunted house.”

“A demon-made haunted house. I’m a bit nervous about that.”

“It is designed to scare normal humans.” Celeste responded.

“I know I’ve been through a lot, and it may barely apply to me anymore, but I’d still like to consider myself normal.”

“I do not think it will be too bad.” Celeste stated as they walked through the doors.

“Welcome.” A tall woman sat behind a small desk. Curtains lead deeper in and stood between the make-shift walls that blocked the view. “Please go through, fu-fu.” Alec glanced at the long-haired girl as they entered.

She seems familiar. Alec thought as they stepped into the darkness. They moved through a small hallway lit only by black lighting.

“Please… help…” Alec glanced down at the sound of the voice. There was a head of a woman with long, dark hair staring up at him. “Help… I dropped it.” She moaned as something tapped his shoulder. He slowly turned behind him to find a headless body with her hand on his shoulder.

“You scared him.” Celeste stated as Alec ran off.

“I knew it wouldn’t work on you.” The girl sighed as Celeste moved on. Who knew he was so easily startled after all that’s happened.

“Hello.” A wispy voice gasped as a hand landed on Celeste’s shoulder. A woman stood beside her with her neck stretched out to Celeste’s left. “Oh.” She frowned and retracted her neck as she realized who her victim was. “Man, what a buzz kill. At least the other guy was a riot.” Celeste sighed and headed onward, meeting several other creatures along the way until she entered a large room with an exit sign on the other end. There were large Frankenstein-style lab equipment spread through the room and a large, rectangular tilted table in the center. There was a body lying on the table.

He must have run out. She moved passed the table and came to a stop as something grabbed her arm. “That won’t work on me.” She sighed as the grip didn’t release. “Look,” She turned towards the table.

“Celeste…” She stared in shock as she realized it was Alec and he had blood dripping down his forehead. The next sound to fill the room made him regret his prank. He gasped, covering his ears and falling to the floor.

“Stop!” He gasped over her shriek. “I never knew you could make such a loud sound.”

“What do you think you’re doing?” Celeste roared.

“I wouldn’t have done it if I had known that’d be the reaction.” Alec rubbed his ears, the ringing still persisting, and followed Celeste as she stormed out of the room. “Wait up!”

“After all you’ve been through I can’t believe you’d pull such a stunt.”

“I’m sorry, I really am.”

“That would be more convincing if you weren’t snickering.” Celeste glared at him.

“I’m sorry! Your reaction just surprised me.”

“I believe we’ve had enough for the day.”

“Sorry! Look, there were some reasons behind that. First, I wanted to see if it was possible.”

“That isn’t helping your case.”

“Second, I wanted to prove a point. Look, you wouldn’t have sent Suzu to follow me around if you weren’t worried. I’m not the best at dealing with others, but I consider you friend and it isn’t because you protect me.”

“That does not excuse your actions.”

“Perhaps, but you need to stop restricting yourself. I know you’re worried about losing yourself again, but you’re older now. You can’t keep hiding from yourself.”

“Look,” Celeste started.

“Give it up.” Alec interrupted. “You were one of my first real friends. I don’t know how many times I have to put that in your head, but I’m not giving up on you.”

“I believe we should visit out own class next.” Celeste shifted the subject as she crossed her arms and avoided his gaze.

“I am a little curious about what they’re doing. It’s a café but I never got the details since they kicked us out.” He followed her fast gait through the school back to their own class.

“You’re back?” Sylvia frowned as she met them at the entrance.

“We wanted to know how you were doing.” Alec answered.

“Oh.” Sylvia blinked as she led them to a table. I know I consider her a friend and wanted to cheer her up, but this feels like they’re on a date. “We’ve had a few people, but it hasn’t been too busy. We’re hoping once the school opens up to the public we’ll get more.”

“Oh, I’d like to request a waitress.” Alec stated as they sat down.

“Request? But I…” Sylvia muttered.

“I want Mai.”

“Huh? Mai?” Sylvia stared at the evil grin on his face. Who knew he would be so wicked? “This won’t end well for you.” Sylvia sighed.

“Just get her.” Alec watched Sylvia slump slightly and move to the back room. She found Mai napping in a chair while everyone else was busy working.

“Mai, table three wants you.”

“Tell Hikaru he’s banned from the classroom completely.” Mai muttered.

“It’s not him.”

“Oh?” Mai’s eyes shot open. “Finally someone who appreciates my beauty?” Mai jumped out of her chair and darted into the classroom. She came to a dead stop as Alec waved at her. She turned around but was block by Iris.

“You have to do some work sometime.” She scolded.

“I won’t demean myself by waiting on him. Besides, how come they get out of working today?” Iris didn’t answer and silently blocked the door. Mai growled softly and slumped towards the table. “Why should a succubus have to wait on others? It should be the other way around.”

“Hello there!” Alec greeted. Celeste just silently stared at him. “What kind of food would you recommend?” He asked as he glanced at the small menu on the table.

“Look, I don’t know if you have a death wish or what, but I’m not serving you!” Mai growled.

“I’ll have the green tea,” Celeste ignored her anger and glanced up at her.

“Are you serious?” Mai scoffed and returned the gaze.

“And a slice of chocolate cake.”

“…I’m going to hurt you both.”

“I’ll try the green tea as well, and a piece of marble cake.” Alec answered.

“Look here, I don’t even want to be here. I’m not serving you two.”

“This waitress is refusing to serve us! Maybe you should fail her and hold her back a year!” Alec shouted. Mai growled again and headed towards the back room.

He’s acting odd. He‘s been developing a habit of teasing Mai… “Excuse me.” Celeste stood up.

“You aren’t going to ditch me, are you?”

“I have some business to attend to, but I will be back shortly.”

“Is that your way of saying you’re going to the bathroom?”

“It was but I see it was pointless.” She muttered and left the room.

“Here.” Mai spat the words as she placed the order on the table.

“Thank you.” He responded. “I’m surprised you’re wearing that over your normal outfit.” He motioned towards the black waitress dress complete with a white apron. It had elbow-length sleeves and a white, frilly hem.

“Celeste is gone; I think I can finish you off if I’m fast.”

“I just thought it looked cute.”

“Huh?” Mai shouted. “Do you really want to die that badly? Enough of this.” Mai stormed off.

“Too easy, though it wasn’t a lie.”

---

Once again I question my actions. I fear losing control and hurting them, but they won’t let me distance myself. Celeste sighed as she splashed cold water on her face. She stared intently at herself in the mirror.

I don’t look that different. Maybe I should stop letting the angst get to me. After all, even someone like me can get lonely. She sighed again and dried her hands and face before returning to the classroom. After I’ve done, even Sylvia and the others wanted to help me.

“Oh, you’re still alive. I’d thought Mai would have slaughtered you.” She greeted Alec as she sat down.

“And yet you still went to the loo.” Alec went to take a sip of the tea but paused with the cup at his mouth.

“Why are you staring at me like that?” She slowly placed the cake back on the table. “Is some on my face?”

“Uh…” Should I tell her?

“What is the matter?”

“I’ve just never seen you smile before.”

“Smile? I don’t like to be teased.”

“That’d be an odd thing to tease you about; anyway I’m serious.”

“Like I’d believe that.” She scoffed.

“Right.” Pointless to argue with her about it any further. “So, what else is there to do?”

“Well, there is a test of courage later, but after the haunted house I’m reluctant to go.”

“I’ve already apologized!”

“Grr…” Sylvia muttered as she peered out into the slowly filling classroom. They’re getting along too well now. That idiot tries to be friends with everyone but doesn’t realize their feelings.”

“Jealous?” Iris asked.

“Humph. I just wish he’d realize. Well, he didn’t reject me and Celeste doesn’t even understand her own feeling, so I’m ahead.” Sylvia cackled.

“You’re a bit scary.” Iris frowned.

“I’m just a bit annoyed. It doesn’t help that I had to help my rival.” She moved out into the room. “Since Celeste won’t go, I will.” Sylvia declared.

“I didn’t say I wouldn’t, just that I am reluctant.”

“Too late! I’ll see you tonight!” Sylvia demanded more than anything before walking away.

“I wonder what that was about.”

“I wouldn’t worry about it.” Alec answered. Though I probably should.

---

“Isn’t this supposed to be random partners?” Alec asked as Sylvia/Ayami dragged him through the darkness to the starting point. She was currently in her “demon” outfit, while Alec was still forced to wear his cat outfit.

“Don’t sweat the small stuff.” They came to a stop at the sign that stated “Start here”.

“Two more.” A familiar dark-haired girl snickered as she handed them a flashlight. “Follow the path and reach the second floor of the old school building to finish.” She snickered softly.

“I didn’t know we had an old school building.” Alec commented as they started down the path.

“It’s a large storage building actually. They just use it for stuff like this.”

“I see.” Alec muttered as they continued along the dark path, which now lead them through a cemetery.

“I don’t remember a graveyard so close to the school.”

“This is real.” Sylvia answered.

“I see…” Alec laughed nervously. “I’m not too observant then. I’ve never done one of these and even in anime they’re vague.”

“That’s not the first time I’ve hear you mention anime, but I don’t remember you ever watching any.”

“I haven’t watched much since moving here. I’m probably far behind.”

“What kind do you watch? Maybe… we could watch it together.” She frowned as he pointed behind her. She slowly turned around.

“I need a new one.” The woman in a white dress cackled as she held her head in-between her arm and body. “This one fell off.” Sylvia let off an ear-piercing shriek and jumped into Alec’s arms.

“Thanks for earlier.” Alec calmly winked.

“Oh you…” She snickered and her head back on her shoulders. “No problem.” She glanced down at Sylvia. “Your friend has a problem.”

“Huh?” He glanced at the girl clinging to him. “Are you really scared or is this a ploy?”

“Of course I am! She startled me!” He blinked and glanced behind him to find Sylvia on the ground.

“You can let go, Ayami.” He sighed. “Huh?” Before he could question further, Sylvia stepped back into her body. “I won’t get used to that.”

“What was that about? And shouldn’t you have been startled?” Sylvia asked as they continued onward.

“Oh, she helped me with a prank earlier.”

“Really? Still, you didn’t get scared.”

“This stuff won’t scare me; especially after all I’ve been through.”

“I guess. Ah!” She shrieked as several blue wisps appeared around her and a faint figure appeared out of the darkness.

“I didn’t know you were helping with this Yuki.”

“No fun.” Yami muttered from the shadows nearby.

“Alec!” Yuki gasped as the blue fire around her vanished. “Um, they wanted some wisps.” She laughed nervously.

“Keep up the good work.” He waved as they started on the path again.

“I’ll do my best!” She called after him as she blushed.

“Idiot.” Yami muttered again.

“You’re too calm for this situation.” Sylvia muttered as they reached the building.

“Says the ghost who’s afraid of ghosts.”

“I’m not afraid of ghosts! I just don’t like things jumping out at me.”

“Then why did you come to an event that’s basically nothing but that?”

“Idiot.” She scoffed. “Let’s get going.” She led him through the dark halls towards the stairs.

“This feels too much like the haunted house.” Alec commented.

“I think this is scarier since its night and more complex.”

“Some fresh meat has entered my lair.” A voice hissed in the darkness. This time they both shrieked and jumped back as a face appeared before them.

“I’d make a snide comment but I get your fear of her.” Sylvia stated softly as they stared at Clarice, who was hanging from the ceiling.

“Will if it isn’t my delicious friend Alec!” She stated with a grin, which Alec responded to with a frown as he pointed the light at the ceiling.

“I was wondering how you were doing that.” Claris had the reptilian part of her body wrapped tightly around the rafters in the ceiling.

“It really takes the magic out when you do that.” She muttered as she adjusted her white coat, somehow keeping it straight despite being upside down.

“We’ll be going.” They edged around her and darted for the stairs.

“Just what do they think I am?” Clarice hissed to herself as she retreated to her hiding spot on the ceiling.

“We’re here!” Sylvia stated as they reached the room at the end of the hallway. The room had a small table with a candle on either side of it and a “Finish” sign hanging above it.

“Shall we go home?” Alec asked.

“We can stay here a moment.” Sylvia pleaded softly. She glanced over at Alec to find him sitting in a small wooden chair. His eyes were closed and he had apparently passed out upon sitting down. “I guess we have no choice!” Sylvia stated to herself as she lifted him onto her shoulders. “I’m glad you made up, even if she is my rival. At least we got to spend some time together!”