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Chapter Text

Prologue

He hated them. He hated them with a passion. An aura of pure anger around him, he glared at the ones who incited this fury within him and awoke the slumbering dragon. How dare they?!?! How dare they try to to chain him, to separate him from his beloved? His eyes, a glowing wrathful emerald, pierced into the frightened eyes of his clan.

By all standards, Ichijou Masaki was a pleasant person. He was almost always serene and cool headed. But this? Never had Masaki been like this. No, the reason was simple. His clan wanted to tie him to an unwanted marriage and separate him from his love, the only one who held his heart.

How dare they?!?! He wanted to rage and rampage but controlled himself. Closing his eyes, forcibly calming himself, he let out a hiss. Slitted emerald eyes, so much like a dragon’s, opened and met those of the elders of the clan.

“Can you repeat that?” He hissed out harshly, George inching away from him warily, aware that Masaki was ready to erupt at any time.

“Masaki, you are almost at the age where you’re eligible for marriage. So we, the elders, would like for you to marry. Of course, to help you choose a bride, we have candidates ready.” The head elder stated as he gestured to a pile of files of aristocratic ladies on the table in front of Masaki. Hearing that was the last straw for Masaki. Inside his mind, something snapped.

The dragon awoke.

Masaki growled and stood before angrily sweeping the files off the table. His power erupted and Masaki felt his calm fall away, his rage in his eyes as he glared.

“No. You have no right to do this to me. I will not let you.” Masaki hissed out. The head elder moved to protest but fell silent when a glowing silhouette formed, a spirit animal that represented Masaki perfectly, a royal dragon. Coiling around the furious Masaki, the solidified red Asian dragon focused it angry gaze upon it’s master’s prey.

“No means no. For years now, I have let you dictate too much of my life. This, however, is the last strike. I will marry who ever I want and that is not up to you. If you try, I WILL end you like the insignificant pests that you are.” At these words, a pressure was mounted upon the elders, showing just how serious he was.

“You brat! How dare you go against us?!?! We are you elders! Youshould just be quiet and obey. What can a brat like you do to us?” An elder, who obviously didn’t believe Masaki would go through with his threat, arrogantly claimed. This proved to his fatal mistake, for soon after, his head was a blood splatter on the wall. The headless corpse of the elder fell to floor. All eyes turned from the murder to Masaki, who had his gun-like CAD pointed at the area where the elder’s head used to be. Lowering it, cold emerald gazed apathetically at the murder he had just committed.

“Anyone else?” Masaki growled as he scanned the pale faces of the elders. Seeing them all shake their heads, he sheathed his weapon before sweeping out of the room, George following behind him. The moment the Ichijou heir left the room, the pressure vanished too. The elders all relaxed though their fear still remained. From where he was sitting near the door and a seat to the left of where Masaki had just vacated a few moments ago, Ichijou Gouki smirked. Next to him sat Ichijou Satoru, the grandfather of Masaki and the father of Gouki.

“That child reminds you more and more like you, Gouki.” Satoru sighed as he shook his head. Both grandfather and father cried not for the killing that Masaki had done. In fact, they approved of it.

“How, Father? I may have fought for my marriage but I never blew the head of an elder off.” Gouki replied with amusement.

“No, but you did break bones. Unlike you though, Masaki lasted a little longer before he resorted to violence whereas you only lasted 15 minutes.” Satoru scoffed, pride in his eyes for his young grandson.

“Oi!” Gouki half heartedly protested. Satoru only laughed softly.

“So, is there a specific reason why Masaki was so against this?” Satoru asked his son, ignoring the elders.

“Ah.” Ichijou Gouki smirked, “There is actually a reason, or shall I say person.”

“Oh? And who would this boy be?” Satoru asked in amusement.

“Boy?” Gouki asked in confusion before he finally understood and laughed boisterously. 

“That makes so much more sense now! No wonder Masaki was so confused when he asked me if it was okay for a guy to like another guy and his hypothetical question on whether or not I’d be okay with him liking the same gender.” Gouki exclaimed, “I was so worried for him, even with Midori telling me everything was okay with that knowing smile of hers. She probably knew about Masaki’s predicament before I did.” 

“And are you okay?” Satoru questioned cautiously.

“Am I okay with what?” Gouki questioned back in confusion. 

“With Masaki liking the same gender.” Satoru clarified.

“Oh, that? Nah, I’m fine with it as long as he’s happy. Besides, I can always have one of the girl’s children named Masaki’s successor. No way am I taking his heirship away from him over such a minor issue.” Gouki shrugged nonchalantly.

Satoru chuckled before putting his curiosity into words, “So, who is our Masaki’s infatuation?” 

Gouki shrugged as he replied, “No idea. Masaki just said that it’s some kid name named Tatsuya.” 

The name set off alarms in Satoru head and he blandly began to describe his suspicion, “Let me guess: black hair, azure eyes, inhumanly beauty, tall, abnormally intelligent, wields two gun-like CADs, insanely intelligent?” 

Gouki fixed his father with a surprised gaze as he nodded slowly. Satoru sighed in exasperation all the while smiling ironically. 

“Oyaji, you know who this Tatsuya kid is?” Gouki asked his father in curiosity. All that Masaki told him was what was just described by Satoru and the kid’s name. 

“Ah. If it’s who I think it is, then it would seems that our Masaki will be in a war, trying to prove himself to his future in-laws.” Satoru chuckled. 

“Oyaji, who is this Tatsuya kid?” Gouki asked impatiently. 

Satoru turned his head and stared at his son in amusement as he said, “The heir of the most dangerous and powerful clan of the 10 Master Clans, Yotsuba Tatsuya.” 

Gouki gaped as he gasped out in shock, “Yotsuba Tatsuya as in Yotsuba Maya’s only child and the treasure of the Yotsuba clan, that Yotsuba Tatsuya?”

Sotaru nodded in confirmation and took in the sight of his now groaning son. In the background, several elders whimpered in fear and some even fainted. 

“Of all people, why did Masaki have to choose the one who can easily kill him?” Gouki groaned, hanging his head. 

Satoru fixed his pointed gaze on his son as he said blankly, “Like you and Midori? Looks like what they say is true: Like father, like son.” 

“Oyaji!” Came his son’s protest, which prompted Satoru into a fit of laughter.

Chapter Text

Chapter One: Welcome, Yotsuba Tatsuya

Contrary to what people said, Yotsuba Maya did in fact have human emotions. All her adult life, she wished for a legacy of herself, of blood and flesh: a son. But alas, she as incapable of it thanks to her tormentors and the experiments that they did on her. 

Or rather, that’s what she thought. Looking down at the sleeping babe in her arms, she felt tears gather in her eyes. Hugging her child close, she smiled wetly as she gazed at her son’s features, memorizing it as she touched her son’s soft cheek. More tears came when he raised a tiny hand and wrapped his fingers around her pointer finger and nuzzled into her touch.

She couldn’t believe that she has been pregnant but the nine months that she went through for her child didn’t lie. The first moment she held him, she felt an over encompassing love for him, one that rivaled or even overwhelmed her feelings towards her clan. 

Now, a few days after giving birth to her babe, both mother and son sat in Maya’s seat as the head of the clan, listening to the excited talk of her clan about the child. Each of the branch family heads, with the exception of the Shiba family, were present. She paid them no mind as she played with her son, tickling him and listening to his happy laughter.

“Maya-sama, what did the elders say about your son’s magical capacity?” One branch family head, the Kuroba family head, asked the happy mother warily. Without looking up, Maya made a gesture and Eisuke stood, coughing to get everyone’s attention, before he relayed his information. 

“As of now, this information is to be spread throughout the family but not beyond it.” The man warned before stating, “The Young Master is in possession of four great abilities, and retains his ability to use all magic.” 

A few moments later, the branch family heads all erupted in cheers and were dismissed by Maya absently to go tell their families. Hayama, Maya’s guardian, smiled from he sat to her right. 

“The Young Master sure is making waves already.” The guardian chuckled as he watched his mistress play with her newborn child. 

“Indeed he is. He’s my little treasure though.” Maya replied absently. Her absentees caused the guardian to smile in fondness

“Maya-sama, aren’t you worried about the branch families?” Hayama asked seriously. From the moment that the Young Master confirmed to only be an embryo barely formed, Hayama made the resolution to protect both mother and son. And it was because of this resolution that made him so wary of the branch families. 

His statement made Maya freeze before she looked up, fixing her solemn gaze on her guardian.

“How so?” The head of the Yotsuba asked as she considered his words. As a new mother and of a such a special child like her little Tatsuya, Maya too took her duty seriously, both as the Yotsuba clan head and a mother. 

“Maya-sama, you know their ambition of having one of their own succeed you. With Tatsuya-sama born, that means that their ambition won’t be fulfilled. They may instead try to get power by pushing the Young Master into an arranged marriage with one of their own and assassinate him then. Or they may even assassinate him out right or make him their puppet.” Hayama stated as he considered the possibilities of what they could do to try and get power. Maya’s gentle disposition gave way to her usual self, the Queen of the Night, and her eyes narrowed. Lips pursed, she hugged her child closer and rocked him when he let out a soft yawn. Only when he was asleep, and when she was sure that he was asleep, did she reply to her guardian’s words. 

“Let them come. I will make sure that none live after that. I will not have my son, my only treasure, fall into their hands. No, I will ensure their obliteration.” She hissed out. Looking at Hayama, she nodded solemnly and, together, began to plan. Just let anyone of those fools try and touch her Tatsuya with their filthy claws. There will be nothing left of them. Maya and the main family will ensure it.

Mark her words: anyone who tries will have nothing to bury except body parts and ash.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Humming as she dressed, Maya gave herself a once over in the mirror and nodded in approval before she turned to her son, who laid on her bed, playing with his stuffed wolf. 

“Tat-chan~,” Maya cooed as she danced over to her boy and picked him up, “Let go and get you dressed~.”

Her boy looked at her curiously, eyes blue and so very sharp, just like her own, babbled something unknown to her as he reached for her with a toothless smile of joy. Bringing him closer, she bumped noses with him with a laugh before settling him in a cradle and went off to get him dressed too. A few minutes later, she and Tatsuya, both dressed warmly for the cold weather outside, evident by the pure white snow that blanketed the lands of the Yotsuba mansion. Hayama, also dressed warmly, awaited her at the doors. 

“We’re ready~,” Maya sung as she danced over to the guardian. Hayama looked at her and the Young Master and coughed to hide his laughter. Maya was dressed in a dark blue dress with a fur coat, a pair of ankle boots, and had a pair of leather gloves in one hand. Tatsuya had on an adorable green onesie with reindeer horns on the hood which was up on his head. That wasn’t the funny part though. No, the funny part laid in the expression that the poor baby was making, one that screamed that he didn’t like what was going on even though he had no idea what was going on. 

Overcoming his urge to laugh, Hayama followed his lady to the car. Opening the door for her to get in, he closed it after she was in and settled, and got the driver’s seat. After making sure that both mother and son were situated, he drove off towards the FLT headquarters. 

A few hours later, the trio arrived at the company. Parking in the valet area, Hayama got out first and made sure that there were no threats around before opening the door to let his lady out. Maya was a sight. Her beauty was truly unparalleled, even by Miya, so it was fair when everyone stared at her. Her rich clothing and grace only seemed to attract more eyes. Uncaring of the audience, Maya reached for her pouting son, who Hayama had pulled out of the car and away from his fascination. Placed into Maya’s arms, Tatsuya was adjusted and nuzzled into his mother’s chest, a sight that was more than welcome by the ladies, who cooed at the adorable scene, and viewed in jealousy by the males. Maya didn’t care and made sure that her son was comfortable before heading into the building.

Employees stopped to stare at the gorgeous woman who walked in like she own the place with a baby in her arms and the armed man following her. Ignoring the workers, mere peasants to her, Maya went to the elevators and got in. Hayama slipped in and made sure that they had their own before pressing the research lab level. As they waited, Maya scoffed at the sights that passed her. 

“I feel quite sorry for Miya.” She said suddenly. Hayama glanced at his lady in confusion and was deigned an answer from her. 

“Miya’s husband is a sorry excuse. If not for his genes, then I wouldn’t have Miya marry him at all.” Maya explained carelessly, uncaring of how she basically referred to her own brother-in-law as a donor. Hayama hummed in understanding and returned his gaze to the front. When they reached their level, Maya walked out first, heading to the lab when she met someone she didn’t want to see. Pasting a cold smile on her face, she walked down the hall and towards him. 

“Tatsurou, still well I see?” Maya enquired coldly, ignoring the woman that stood by the man. 

“Ah, Maya-sama, it’s good to see you again.” The man greeted his sister-in-law awkwardly, knowing that the woman in front of him could easily get rid of him and there would be nothing he could do about it. Surprise etched itself on his face when he saw the baby that Maya was holding. 

“Whose child is that?” He couldn’t help but ask. Flinching, he awaited her response. Which response, he had no idea. 

“Mine. This is Tatsuya, my darling child.” Maya replied coldly, her eyes warning him. 

Nodding warily, the Shiba retreated. The woman by his side stared at Maya suspiciously. Maya sneered at the woman and felt her hackles rise when the woman gazed at her child distastefully. 

“Shiba, control your mistress!” Hayama snapped, his own hackles rising. Tatsurou grabbed the arm of the woman, his own face pale with fear. 

“A peasant dares to stare at my son like this? How daring of you. You met be bored of living.” Maya stated sweetly, her tone mocking. The woman, Furuha Sayuri, blushed in anger and made a step but froze when Tatsurou tightened his grip. 

“A child has no business here and neither do you. I’ve never seen you before.” Sayuri snapped, unaware of just who she was actually snapping at. 

“Oho? You really are tired of being alive, little girl.” Maya sneered. Tatsurou felt even greater fear in him at the audacity of his lover for snapping at the most powerful magician in Japan. 

“Do you even know who you’re talking to?” Tatsurou snapped at his lover and mistress. 

“Tatsurou?” Sayuri stared at him in confusion, “Why are you so pale?” 

“That’s because you’re snapping at the Yotsuba Maya, the owner of the company.” He hissed. Sayuri immediately paled as she stared at the cold goddess in front of her. This was the Queen of the Night? And she had just snapped at her?!?!

“I-I-I…” Sayuri stuttered, “I-i didn’t know that it was you.” 

“Indeed. Tatsurou, the moment you conceive a child with Miya, your marriage with her is over and she along with the child will return to the Yotsuba family. I will not have Miya or my niece or nephew and by extension, the Yotsuba main house, suffer the humiliation. You will be the child’s father but you will never be able to reveal that, interact as their father, nor claim them.” Maya stated coldly, “It will be known that the child’s father died and Miya is a widow. It will be as if you never married Miya.” 

Tatsurou paled even further and staggered to the wall, staring vacantly at nothing. He knew that Maya was cruel but not to the point of cutting him out of his child’s life. He knew that Maya would be displeased if she learned about his affair but he never expected this from her. He was naive to think that Maya would care slightly more for him even if he was her brother-in-law. 

Maya just sneered deeper and swept past without a glance back, Hayama following while glancinging at the pair with disgust. Entering the lab, she smiled politely once more. Noticing movement from her son, she looked down and blinked slightly in surprise when she saw his keen eyes analyzing all and everything. Giggling softly, she just knew that her sone will become her pride in the future and cement the Yotsuba name into history. 

Finishing her business, Maya and her son as well as Hayama left quickly, returning to the mansion. 

Chapter Text

It has been three years since since her Tatsuya was born. At the age of two, Tatsuya is now a certified child genius, and mastering the basics of engineering like no one else’s business. Maya saw her son’s gift in engineering and ordered for a department to be made when Tatsuya turned fifteen and for all the basics to be made.

Currently, Maya sat across from her sister, drinking tea in the Yotsuba mansion’s inside garden. Miya sat across from her, cradling her baby in her arms. Tatsuya and Miyuki had officially met a few months ago, a few days after Miyuki’s birth. As per Maya’s words, Miya and Miyuki severed all relations with Tatsurou and the father of Miyuki and Miya’s husband was put in as deceased. Both moved back into the Yotsuba mansion once more once Miya was fully recovered and Miyuki was deemed ready for travel. 

Miyuki seemed to be very fond of Tatsuya while Tatsuya the same, but only platonically. Tatsuya was called Miyuki’s big brother, which he accepted in a pleased manner. Maya let her son do as he pleased and so far, she felt the idea was perfectly reasonable. He had made friends with Yoshida Mikihito, the heir of the Yoshida, quickly. Whereas the clan viewed the Yoshida as weak, Maya and Tatsuya saw them as powerful allies. Now, both parties viewed each other as allies thanks to their heirs being the best of friends. They were such good friends that both tended to go over to each other’s houses for play dates. 

Currently, her Tatsuya was playing tag with the Yoshida heir, Mikihito. Of course, Tatsuya being her son, he was dominating the game but taking it easy on Mikihito. 

“Maya, why did you want Miyuki and I to move back here?” Miya asked her sister curiously. 

“I meant exactly what I said. Shiba is an unfavorable branch in our Yotsuba clan right now and Tatsurou is in a precarious position, not that he knows. That and I felt that Tat-chan would benefit with a sister to care for.” Maya easily answered, sipping her tea. 

Miya examined her sister before stating confidently, “Becoming a mother really did change you.”

Maya smiled and replied, “And it hasn’t you?”

Seeing her sister’s point, Miya conceded to her sister with a side. Smiling in satisfaction, Maya stood and went over to her son and his friend. Kneeling next to her child, she smiled gently and asked, “Are any of you hungry? We still have a few minutes before we have to head to the annual meeting.” 

        Looking up at his friend, Tatsuya nodded. Standing, the two year old help his friend up and both walked hand in hand to the table with Maya. Helping the two get into their seats, Maya sat in her own and ordered for lunch to be served. Continuing their tea, the two women made sure that the children were fed, enjoying the blushes of the children when they made a mess on their faces. Finishing lunch, the group got ready before they left for the meeting. Before they left though, Miya handed Miyuki to her nanny and her personal guardian.

Arriving at the conference building, and with everyone out of the car, Maya turned to take a roll check. Seeing that she had all of her people, the group turned and entered the building. Maya and Miya made a clear show of dominance, with both being the most powerful women of the Yotsuba clan and both having been reunited once more under their clan. Tatsuya walked in from of his mother, dressed in a child sized formal suit, complete with his tie and shoes. Not unlike anyone of the group though, the Yotsuba heir’s own facial expression was polite but cold, just like his own mother and aunt. Next to him, Yoshida Mikihito smiled serenly, dressed in a traditional red and white hakama with geta on his sock clad feet. Even though the Yoshida heir was not supposed to be there, the Yotsubas were more than enough to intimidate anyone and everyone into silencing their protests. Stopping before the chamber, Maya took that moment to settle last moment affairs. 

“Miya, I want you to protect the children. I know that both of them are more than enough to deal with threats, but the principal still stands.” Maya commanded, Miya agreeing easily, knowing the true reason behind Maya’s words. Even though Mikihito was trained for a few months by Miya and assisted by Tatsuya, the Yoshida was still in the mind set that he was weak and thus could not fight as well as he actually could. 

“Mikihito-kun, make sure that you stay by Tatsuya at all times. We wouldn’t want to kill someone for trying to mess with you.” Maya cooed in a twisted but comforting way. Having long been used to the Yotsuda clan’s twisted sense of teaching a lesson, Mikihito was unfazed by her words and only nodded happily. As young as he was, he knew what the reason for him being here with the Yotsubas was. Although he wasn’t a genius like his friend, Mikihito was plenty smart himself and often acted as Tatsuya’s advisor on all things common. He knew from the moment that Maya told him and his parents that he’d be attending the meeting of the 10 master clans that she wished for him to become one of Tatsuya’s confidents and advisors. The second part is mostly because he was the closest person to Tatsuya other than his family. Seeing the opportunity for their son to rise in the ranks while being with his friend, they accepted her proposition immediately. Hence why he was here. 

To be 100% truthful, the only reason why Mikihito allowed this to pass was because he would be able to stay with his first and closest friend. Unlike the Yoshida clan and his parents, Mikihito was sincere in his thoughts that his friend would one day rise to the top and that he wanted to help him get there. For the first person who Mikihito didn’t know at all to want to help and befriend, Mikihito would abandon his serene self and engage in combat, putting his own innate cunning into action. Golden eyes shone with venomous ambition, hidden by his closing of his eyes and the raising of his sleeve to hide his “hesitance”. Mikihito was ridiculed all his life by others, calling him weak, all the while holding back his dark ambitious side, but no more. For Tatsuya, all enemies and potential threats will be negated, and if need be, eliminated. After all, onmyoujis have long perfected the art of silencing enemies. 

Reverting back to his usual self, Mikihito glanced at his friend and met a cool, knowing gaze. Laughing sheepishly and rubbing the back of his head, Mikihito knew that he couldn’t hide anything from his best friend. Tatsuya only smiled and turned his attention back to his mother. Like Tatsuya, Maya and Miya were not fooled by the serene mask that the Yoshida showed the world. Both knew that the onmyouji had a darker side and were delighted when they discovered just how much hanging around the Yotsuda had allowed said dark side to show itself. Both women very much approved and were happy for Tatsuya; not only did the heir gain a life long friend, but he also gained a hidden ace. Maya cared greatly for the young Yoshida when he proved his loyalty to her dear Tatsuya by eliminating assassins before they could even get in the property on his way to see his friend. The sight of the young Yoshida’s uncaring eyes, so full of venomous bloodthirsty, as he bloodlessly killed the would be assassins endeared him to her and she, in turn, offered the Yoshida a place by Tatsuya’s side as his advisor, which Mikihito immediately took, much to her delight. Claiming herself as the boy’s godmother, she introduced him to the clan as Tatsuya’s best friend, advisor, and an honorary Yotsuba. Let it be said that the clan honored deed done to protect their heir and quickly accepted him into their ranks. 

Finishing her last minute protocols, Maya stood and opened the doors of the chamber. As a group, they entered the chamber, the doors closing behind them. All eyes, wary or fearful, were on them as they went to the Yotsuba seat. Taking her seat, Maya picked up her son and placed him on her lap. Using him as a teddy bear, she enjoyed the feeling of her obedient son letting her cuddle him. Mentally giggling, she smiled passively at all that dared to star at her. Those eyes soon widened when they saw the close resemblance of her son to herself, which caused her to break into dark giggled in her mind. Behind her and to the left, Miya sat with Mikihito also in her lap, both settling in to enjoy the show. 

As soon as all the clan heads and their entourages arrived and were seated, the meeting began. Maya drowned out all the noise while Tatsuya listened and observed with rapture, taking in information just in case the clan needed it. 

Of course, with the curious sight that was mother and son, someone just HAD to say something. Not that this was a bad thing but…

“Ne, is he your son?” Came a young boy’s voice. The mother and sone duo looked down and saw a young boy, about the same age or a year older than Tatsuya, with red hair staring up at them with curiosity in his eyes. Down the table, Gouki noticed and his slight panic caused him to choke. Even with his son being as curious as a child is supposed to be, he never expected Masaki to go up to the notorious Yotsuba clan head to ask whether or not the child was her’s. Well, not that Gouki was complaining. He was torn between being proud of his son and being anxious for his son. Masaki just stared up at the pretty lady and the child that she held in her lap. Smiling gently, knowing that the boy was the Ichijou heir, Maya placed her son down in front of the red head. 

“Why, yes he is, kawaii shonen-chan.” Maya replied proudly and easily. From her peripheral view, she noticed several of the clan heads pale in realization and unanimously come to one conclusion: the Yotsuba finally have their long prayed for heir, for any child of Maya’s was destined to become a massive influence in magic. 

Mikihito observed the newcomer curiously, mentally collecting information. He hummed softly when he noticed the gaze of the redhead towards his friend. That was the final mark that he needed, thought Mikihito as he classified the boy as a possible ally but also a possible enemy, but an unconventional one. Unlike typical enemies, this one would intentionally become his friend’s rival for his friend’s attention. Somehow, Mikihito had a feeling that this one would not get along with Miyuki in the future. 

Sad to say that Mikihito would be proven right by the many fights that Miyuki and Masaki would get into in the future, each trying to outdo the other in trying to get Tatsuya’s attention. 

Leaning in, and following the weird voice/instinct in his head, Masaki placed a hand on the frozen and tense Yotsuba heir’s cheek and peck it before running off. Maya watched in utter amusement and surprise while Gouki started hacking in shock. Jumping down from Miya’s lap, Mikihito ran to his friend, panicking when he saw his friend’s soul practically leave his body. 

“Tat-chan, don’t die!” He cried as he caught his friend. This was the final strike for Maya, who broke into hysterical giggles. Even though she didn’t want to give her only child away, she was salivating thinking about the genes that the Ichijou could provide her child and the clan.

It was also this first meeting that caused the Yotsuba clan to label one Ichijou Masaki as an enemy, thanks to the red haired Ichijou’s behavior towards their treasure, i.e. the Kissing Incident as it will be forever known to the world in amusement, but would be cursed by the Yotsuba main family.

Chapter Text

It has been fourteen years since the incident and, to be honest, Tatsuya never thought about IT again. Now, the young Yotsuba was ready to enter high school. Finishing up with his uniform, Tatsuya gave himself a once over before being satisfied with his appearance and left his room, going downstairs to the kitchen, his overcoat and school bag laid on the sofa neatly. From the moment that he had told his mother and clan that he wanted to go to First High School with his cousin, the main family immediately went into motion to get everything ready for him. His aunt had contacted Miyuki, who had a house to herself and her guardian since she was going to the middle school, who was delighted to hear that her cousin was coming and immediately agreed to Tatsuya staying with her and her guardian.

Unlike the others of his clan, Tatsuya had no need for protection. Being the strongest magician of his generation in the Yotsuba clan, he was fully capable of defending himself. If anything, it was his enemies who needed to have a guardian. From the moment that he got home from the Ten Master Clans meeting fourteen years ago, he was pushed into training immediately, with each of his instructors claiming that “it was for his own protection against that red haired fiend”. Till this day, he had no clue about just who this “fiend” was. With him, he carried his two special CADs, his model “Trident”, the two finest works of art he had ever created.

He worried not for money, thanks to his mother’s birthday gift to him: his own specialized department in FLT. Independent and funded personally from Maya herself, Tatsuya was given complete control and was rewarded with his department, the Silver Taurus department, being the most profitable and well know. Of course, this also meant that all that they made and earned would go straight to Maya first. Even then, the rest of the company’s departments tried to gain access to the Silver Taurus department but ultimately failed when they met the wall that was the Yotsuba sisters. Miya assisted because she wanted to see what her nephew would accomplish given free reign, Maya because she wanted her son to work at his full potential. Of course, the sisters also did this because it frustrated Shiba Tatsurou and his mistress when they failed to get their hands on the Silver Taurus department.

Miya especially found pleasure in doing this, and informing them that the head of the department, Mr. Silver Taurus himself, was none other than her darling nephew, Maya’s own son, Yotsuba Tatsuya himself. That caused Sayuri to try and convince the young heir to join her or even threaten him, both which failed when she realized that the son was just as formidable as his mother, if not more because unlike Maya, Tatsuya was apathetic most of the time. Of course, having Mikihito as the vice-department head made things easier. When Tatsuya didn’t want to deal with the persistent woman, he often sent Mikihito who put a permanent stop to her efforts by giving her a glimpse of just what he was capable of doing for the sake of his friend.

Thanks to all this, Tatsuya had a steady income for both himself, his friend, and his clan, all the while keeping what he wanted and giving the subpar (according to Yotsuba standards) works to Miya. Because it was according to the clan’s standards, the subpar works were commonly called extremely high grade and regarded to be the best. Hence, the Silver Taurus department, the ST department, earned their fame and reputation. Not only that, but it also became the one department that many wanted to enter thanks to the kind treatment and amazing leadership of both Tatsuya and Mikihito. Of course, seeing the genius mind of Mr. Silver Taurus himself and the sharp eye for details of Mikihito working together to make and improve an invention was also a plus. Thereafter, it was well known that all of the workers in the ST department loved their bosses and their work. They often got bonuses and compliments as well as help and that increased their willingness to work and their loyalty to their bosses. The department got so big that Maya had a whole new building made for them, away from the company, and made them their own company. So now, instead of Silver Taurus belonging to FLT, it was now it’s own company under Maya herself, handing over FLT to Miya.

Maya saw Tatsuya staying with Miyuki and her guardian as only temporary, as she told her son. According to her, he only had to stay their until his new home was finished and fully refurbished. After that, she expected Tatsuya and Mikihito to move their and continue their work along with their studies. Seeing no problem with the offer and viewing each other platonically, both easily agreed.

Tatsuya shook his head internally and focused on his cooking. A few minutes later, he was placing down plates of omurice on the table just as Miyuki and her guardian, Sakurai Minami, entered the room. A minuscule smile on his face, Tatsuya greeted them.

“Ohayo, Miyuki, Minami-san.” The gentle Yotsuba greeted. Unlike his mother and Miya, he was actually gifted and could actually cook without burning down the kitchen.

“Ohayō, nii-sama!” Chirped Miyuki in greeting to her cousin as she took her seat. At the age of fifteen herself, she had grown to be a beauty, much like Miya herself in appearance. The young girl cared greatly about her cousin, viewing him as both her idol and an older sibling she never had. In another universe, she would’ve fallen for him, but not this one for the only thing that he loved was his work. She was possessive of him, that she could admit that easily. But to be fair, she saw him as her older sibling, which had been that way for years. She often got into glaring matches with others of her age because of it. Like the others of the Yotsuba main house, she viewed none as worthy for her “older brother”.

“Ohayōgozaimasu, Tatsuya-sama.” Returned Minami formally as she bowed before taking her seat. Being a branch member of the Yotsuba clan, she was taught to always respect her higher-ups, especially the heir of the Maya-sama, her only son, Tatsuya. The thought of being related to the Yotsuba heir made her stutters. As a guardian, she strived to protect her lady, Shiba Miyuki. As a woman, she admired her lady. As a magician however, she admired Tatsuya-sama. At a young age, the male was already revolutionizing magic and becoming the strongest magician of his generation from the family. Becoming the Maya of his generation, he served as her and other’s idol in the ways of magic.

“Hurry and eat now. We wouldn’t want you to be late, now would we?” He said as he began eating. Taking the cue from him, both Miyuki and Minami also began to eat. The trio finished a few minutes later, placing their dirty dishes in the dishwasher and turning it on. Grabbing their stuff, the three left the house.

Closing the door and locking it, Tatsuya walked in front, a smile appearing on his face when he saw his oldest best friend waiting for him outside of the gate.

“Ohayō, Tat-chan.” Greeted the Yoshida. Fourteen years had indeed changed the onmyouji. Gone were his babyish features. In their place were soft, slightly feminine features, elegant and symmetric. Golden eyes still held their gentle gaze. Shooting up in height, the Yoshida was only a few inches shorter than Tatsuya himself. He was as slim and pale as ever.

“Ohayō, Miki.” The Yatsuba responded as he opened the gate and stepped out. Turning to Miyuki, he told her that he’d see her later before turning around and leaving, ignoring her pout.

“Nee, Tat-chan, Leo said to meet him up at the main gate.” Miki relayed their other best friend’s message, with Tatsuya nodding. Both of them had met the other boy when they were off discovering the forest on one of their vacations together. Finding Saijou Leohart was not a part of their plans but that was fine since he quickly integrated into their group easily. From then on, where one was, the other two were near. Both Miki and Leon knew that Tatsuya was destined for great things, so both swore their loyalty to him. Under the Yotsuba clan, both grew jumps and leaps. Unlike his other two friends, Leonhart wasn’t mentally gifted, but he was physically gifted. With Tatsuya as the main brain, both acted as his arms and legs, working in perfect synchro, to the point that it amazed all of their families. Maya was especially delighted and spent the next few minutes hugging and praising her son, not that Mikihiko and Leonhart were any better with their own parents.

Eventually, the pair arrived at the the school. Immediately, they found their friend. After all, who could ignore their friend who was waving and calling their names? Both smiled at each other in exasperation before they headed to their friend.

“Ohayō, Leon.” Mikihiko greeted the boisterous male, Tatsuya nodding in greeting.

“Ohayō, Tatsu, Miki!” The Saijou greeted as he grinned widely. They all shared a laugh, or in Tatsuya’s case, a smile, before going to the auditorium. On their way, all three ignored the whispers of the students around them.

“Look, it’s them.”

“It’s the Impenetrable Trio.”

“I heard that all of them are prodigies in some way, shape, or form.”

“Look, it’s the Yoshida heir who’s bringing back the old magics and making them on pair with modern magic, “the Shadow” Yoshida Mikihiko. I heard that he’s a the silent ace.”

“It’s the “White Knight” Saijou Leonhart. I heard that he excels in physical combat and has never been defeated in it.”

“Hey, it’s THE Yotsuba heir himself. I heard that he’s a genius.”

“I heard that he makes his own CADs.”

All these rumors made the trio amused, especially the ones who were gossiping about Tatsuya himself.

“Looks like this year’s students are brave. To think that they’re gossiping about Tat-chan…They must be bored of living.” Mikihiko laughed softly, a hint of his venomous side in the undertone of his words.

“Ignore it, Miki. Sheep will always be sheep.” Leonhart scoffed, eyeing the students distastefully. Ever since he became friends with Tatsuya and Mikihiko, he learned to filter out the rumors. They served no purpose to him or his friends any purpose, other than migraines. Entering the auditorium, the group found a set of three chairs in the middle section. With Tatsuya in the middle seat, and Leon and Miki on either side, each regal and imposing, they made a huge impression on the school. That was the moment that they became one of the most imposing groups in the whole academy.

Chapter Text

By the time that the speech was set to start, the trio were looking as if they were ready to just stand up and leave. Once the auditorium darkened, they all straightened and focused their attention onto the speakers. Afterwards, all three stood and walked outside once the way was clear. Hearing someone calling his name, Tatsuya stopped and turned around. He looked down slightly and saw his cousin heading towards them with a wide smile on her face, ignoring everyone around her. He noticed that her smile was slightly strained and concluded that someone must’ve been over complimenting it. That’s usually the reason behind that expression. He was used to it for it’s happened multiple times in the past. 

“Onii-sama!” The Shiba cheered as she stopped before her cousin, a bright smile in her eyes and a hopeful look in her eyes.

“Hello, Miyuki. Well done with your speech. I’m proud of you, becoming the representative for the middle schoolers.” Tatsuya complimented his cousin, petting her on the head gently several times before pulling back. He was rewarded with a bright smile of pride from her, pride in knowing that she did something to make the next head of her clan proud of her. 

“Onii-sama could’ve done better than me easily.” The Shiba shot back bashfully, her joy at receiving a compliment from the older still shining from her. That made Tatsuya smile his tiny smile at her. Unbeknownst to him, several other students saw that sight and all blushed brightly. Some even clutched their hearts and sighed blissfully. Mikihiko laughed softly at this, which sent even more people into bliss. Leonhart giving his roguish grin at his friends was the last strike and several people fell to the floor, holding their bright faces. And yes, for all three, some of these people are males too.

“Miyuki, you should probably get going now. It’s time for you to go to class or else you’ll be late.” Tatsuya said as he went back to his blank face. 

“Hai, Onii-sama. Have a good day.” Said the disappointed girl with a bow before she left with her guardian. 

Turning, the heir and his two friends went to the class placement boards outside. 

“Tat-chan, give me a minute. I’ll go and find out our placements.” Mikihiko said. Receiving a nod, he jogged to the boards and began to look for their names. Internally, he promised himself that if they weren’t all in the same classes, then he would murder someone and he was sure that Maya would be delighted to assist him in that endeavor. Then again, Maya and the Yotsuba clan were willing to do a lot when it came to their heir.

Finally finding their names, he brightened visibly when he saw that they were in the same class and were Course 1 students. Going back to his two friends, he voiced his findings. 

“It looks like Maya-sama actually did as she said she would. We’re all in the same class.” He stated. Tatsuya nodded while Leon gave a little laugh. 

“Miki, did you expect that Maya-sama would do otherwise. Considering that Tatsu doesn’t want a guardian and that we’re his closest friends, personally trained by the Yotsubas themselves, what did you expect to happen?” Leon pointed out. Even he, as careless as he was in the matters of double purposing things, could understand. 

“Nonsense. You are my best friends and confidents, not guardians.” Tatsuya protested, a soft frown on his face. 

“Tat-chan, we know. But that doesn’t mean that we won’t act as your guardians if needed.” Miki said softly, a gentle look in his eyes.

“Well, personally, I don’t think that it’ll come to that.” Leonhart sighed as he folded his arms behind his head, “Tatsu’s way stronger than us and there’s barely anyone who can match him. Besides, to mess with him means messing with one of the Ten Master Clans.” 

Miki, hearing his friend’s simple but logical statement, could only sigh and agree.

“Indeed. I will not allow the day where my friends have to act as my guardians come.” Tatsuya said softly, just enough for their trio to hear, but powerfully. The three of them shared a soft moment before they all put their masks back on and headed back into the school to go to their class. Each were in character as they walked in and took their seats. Knowing that they could, they decided to sit in the back middle three seats in a row, having a perfect view of what goes on but enough to give them a sense of privacy. Each pulled out something to do as they waited: Tatsuya pulled his western book that he had been reading the other day, Leonhart a puzzle, and Mikihiko a book on Onmyodo. When the teacher entered, all the student were told to take their seats. Frowning, the teacher called for the three student to put up their stuff and say attention. The moment that they did as he said and looked up, he coughed and continued what he was saying. As the lesson continued on, the three prodigies found themselves bored and more bored. Eventually, the class was ended just in time for the bell to ring. Standing, Leo stretched with a relieved sigh. 

“Thank goodness that the class is over. I was about to fall asleep not a moment later.” The brash male groaned as he relaxed and stared back at his two friends. 

“I can agree with you on that.” Mikihiko agreed as he too stood and stretched for a few moments before relaxing. Tatsuya stood and gestured for his friends to follow him before leaving the classroom. Shrugging, the two friends followed the Yotsuba. When they found him, they were unsurprised to find the Yotsuba knocking on the principal’s office. Realizing what their friend was doing, the two entered after Tatsuya and locked the door before standing guard, making sure that no one got in or out. 

Heading straight the desk, Tatsuya coughed softly. The two people who were making out behind the desk immediately separated in surprise. Hearing the soft sound of distaste from his friends, Tatsuya felt amusement rise in him. Seeing that the intruder was just a student, the principal relaxed, tugging the young woman in his lap closer. 

“So, what’s a student doing in here? Get out.” The man imperiously and cockily commanded. The attitude of the man made Leonhart scowl and Mikihiko stiffen, fighting his want to pull out several of his talismans to teach the man a lesson in respecting his betters. Tatsuya himself stayed calm, only raising an eyebrow as he pulled out a letter and held it out for the principal, who only scoffed at it. Tatsuya’s other eyebrow joined it twin as he flipped the letter to reveal the symbol of the Yotsubas. Seeing the emblem, the principal freaked out, dropping the woman in his haste to stand. Taking the letter shakily, he read the contents and stared at the impassive, beautiful being in front of him. This was Yotsuba Tatsuya, the cherished prodigy child of the Yotsubas?!?! And he had just tried to boss the Yotsuba heir?!?!

Stifly bowing, the man tried to apologize but was stopped by a raised hand. 

“Have you done as Mother commanded?” Tatsuya asked impassively. Shaking, the man only nodded, unable and unwilling to speak, not trusting himself to not just spill out his guts to the Yotsuba heir. Only after he gathered himself did he have the strength to speak. 

“Yes, of course. As Yotsuba-sama has asked me, there is a different schedule set in place for you three. A lab along with a personal training room, both connect to each other, is ready and fully furbished with the best and the newest of everything.” He reported, nervously wrenching his hands. 

“I see. And about the classes?” Tatsuya asked in a moment of thought. 

“You’ve been pulled out of it and placed under the category of researchers. Of course, this means that you’re not under any obligation to attend classes.” The man replied decisively. Satisfied, Tatsuya left, Mikihiko and Leonhart following. 

Chapter Text

Ever since their transfer into their own department within the school, they seemed to be even more untouchable. It became known that the three were the only ones that each cared about. Leonhart, as friendly as he was, interacted the most to the student body. Having two friends known to be powerful magicians in their own right, people seemed to be disappointed when it came out that he was a little above average in that aspect. However that soon changed when, in physical classes, the Saijou showed that he was indeed just as gifted as his friend, mastering physical attacks with his specialized CAD, a birthday present from Tatsuya and Miki to him. It was to the point that no one wanted to fight him using physical attacks. 

Things were better in the case of Mikihiko, but only a little. Considering that his two friends both used modern magic, people obviously expected him use the same. It was to their disappointment that he showed that he used the old magics, but to their amazement, Mikihiko had honed his magic for years and as such could easily beat modern magic. Thanks to Tatsuya and Leon both experimenting and helping him in their shared childhood, Mikihiko had come up with a way to use modern magic to boost up his old magic. Of course, the CAD that Tatsuya had made him and the lessons in modern magic tactics by Leonhart gave him an easier time in magical combat.

Out of the three, Tatsyua was the most revered. Breaking the status quo, the Yotsuba began to engineer CADs for his friends and family, showing off just how good he was via Mikihiko and Leonhart. In the aspect of his skills, no one doubted him for he was a Yotsuba and Yotsubas were the most gifted in all the 10 Master clans. 

Being a group of friends, each a powerhouse, it didn’t take long for the student council to approach them. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It happened on such a pretty day, with blue skies, clear and light, and gentle breezes. 

The three friends had decided to take a break from their work that morning and went out to have an early (for them) lunch outside. Thanks to the old principal getting fired and a new principal, someone who respected and knew Maya personally, Shigeru Yoshiyuki, also incidentally Tatsuya’s godfather and a retired head of the Defense Department, their group was allowed to move their “class” out of the main building and into a side building, completely furbished and bigger than their previous occupations, with the additions of three bedrooms (with each having their own private bathrooms) just in case they needed it, a kitchen for cooking, and a garden in the back of their new building. Unlike other heirs, all three enjoyed being surrounded by nature, so they made sure to spend their mealtimes and breaks there. Surrounded by fruit trees and edible plants, the three were completely self sufficient and were only seen in the main building in the mornings and the afternoons when it was time to go home, but that part soon changed, thanks to, once again, their new building, which now was also their dorm rooms, thanks to their habits of spending all nighters on projects. Now, the only times they were seen are when there were important tests that they had to do. 

Sitting outside on a picnic blanket, bento boxes empty, the three friends relaxed. Leonhart stretched his back before laying down on the blanket, his hands behind his head as he soaked in the sun, his head being shaded by the tree that he was under with his friends. 

“Ah~, this is the life. Having our own area to do research in and not having to go to class…ah, what a nice life!” The Saijou groaned happily as he relaxed. He took one hand and rubbed his full stomach in content, “A  nice lunch followed by a nap after a long morning of research…how nice~.”

Mikihiko and Tatsuya, both sitting by the Saijou under the tree, smiled at each other. A neat grouping of their empty lunch boxes laid near their legs. In each of their hands was a cup of steaming tea. 

“Indeed.” Mikihiko agreed easily, also enjoying the peace. 

The group of close friends sat there in their isolated world of nature only to be disturbed by the sound of voices followed by people who headed towards them, going around their building. Seeing who the intruders were, Mikihiko relaxed his arm, which had been inching towards his pouch of talismans. 

The group of upperclassmen approached them, the leader being a young woman, Saegusa Mayumi, Mikihiko noted. His mind quickly began to run the possibilities of just what the group wanted with them and came to the single conclusion that it was mostly because of the threat that they could possible hold for the student council president and her people. Among the people, Miki noticed and took note of the Public Morals Committee. Fully analyzed, Mikihiko deemed the group as a whole to be of no threat to himself and his friends, but he’d still rather to play it safe. Hiding his amusement, he turned to Tatsuya and Leonhart, who, upon sensing the group, had immediately sat up and reached for his CAD, but relaxed when he identified the group. The only one to actually stay calm and remain unaffected by the whole mess was actually Tatsuya. 

Upon reaching the prodigies, the student council stopped in front of them. Both groups surveyed the other, a tense atmosphere dropping upon them all. Saegusa Mayumi, being the student council president, decided to break the ice first. 

“It’s nice to finally meet the the ones that we’ve been hearing about all this time. Let me introduce myself: My name is Saegusa Mayumi, and this is my council. Also with us is the Public Morals committee, led by the president, Watanabe Mari.” Mayumi prodded as she observed the first years in front of her. She had heard rumors in the school about the three and how strong each were. She didn’t see them as a threat to her, the student council, or the Public Morals Committee at all, but rather she saw them as possible members. Taking the chance that was in front of her, she began to observed the three. Saijou Leonhart was just as she had heard. Unlike his friends, he was not petite, but she could see his trained instincts in the way that he kept his eyes on them at all times, even as relaxed as he seemed to be. Loyal and fierce, he truly lived up to his name. Yoshida Mikihiko was truly effeminate as she had heard. Just as the rumors had said, the male truly almost always had his talisman and gear on him just incase anything happened. Loyal and cunning, she could see his ruthlessness in the way that he seemed to be at ease but was actually observing and analyzing them from head to toe. After that, she focused her eyes on the most dangerous one here: Yotsuba Tatsuya. Being a child of one of the Ten Master Clans, she knew of the Yotusba heir and how intelligent and gifted he was. In a fight, Mayumi was sure that she would be wiped out versus Tatsuya. In school, the impression of his high intelligence left its mark on her when she learned that he MADE his own CADs, along with those of his two friends. Truly, the Yotsuba was as gifted as they came. 

“Good afternoon, Saegusa-san. What can we do for you this lovely day?” Tatsuya asked after a long sip of his tea, focusing his eyes on the girl. 

“Eh, it is indeed.” Mayumi stalled as she turned to observe the lovely garden that they were in.

“I believe what Tat-chan means is what you want from us?” Mikihiko ‘translated’, a polite but cold grin on his lips.

Mayumi sweat dropped at the sheer bluntness that the Yoshida seemed to possess as he talked to them. Truly, the Yoshida was quite irritated with them for interrupting his afternoon with his friends and their peace. 

“Ahaha! I like your style, Yoshida-kun!” Laughed Mari as she watched, delight on her face. After dealing with the polite behavior and veiled words of those around her, having someone be blunt 100% was quite refreshing. The others of the group bristled, but none more than the vice president, Hattori Hanzou.

“You! Watch your words to the student council president, freshman!” The red faced boy began before Mayumi placed her hand on his arm to stop him.

“Maa maa, calm down.” The Saegusa placated before focusing her attention back to the matter at hand, her gaze focused, “I’ll be completely blunt then: I’d like it if the three of you joined us at the student council.”

Everyone took a moment to take it in before the silence was broken by Tatsuya.

“Depends.” Came his answer. 

“What do you mean depends?!?!?!” Hanzou blowed up. 

“I believe that it means that it would depend on whether or not you’ll let the three of us be there at the same time. Leo and I are both to be with Tat-chan as both his advisors and guards, as is our promise of loyalty to him, sworn of our own free wills. Of course, we would also like permission to help out the Public Morals committee as well. It’s not good for us to stay so isolated for so long from the school. That would damage our reputations as model students and that would detrimental to all three of us as well as to our clans’s, ” Miki hummed, his gaze sharp as he gazed at the group of senpais.

Before anyone could protest, Mayumi quickly accepted, seeing no problem in that at all. 

“But of course you may attend! And I don’t see a reason as to why you shouldn’t be able to help out Mari and her people.” She quickly agreed. 

“Very well then. We accept your proposition. However, take care in that you may not order us nor can you have any access to our labs and building.” Tatsuya stated bluntly. Nodding, Mayumi led her group away. Once the group gone, the three went back to what they were doing before the whole mess occurred, pretending that nothing major had happened to that they had been asked personally by the student council president to join the student council even though they were only freshmen. 

Chapter Text

Sitting in the Yotsuba mansion, the three of the most dangerous people in Japan, and maybe the world, sat drinking tea. Each had their weapons near them, but were relaxed completely. In the holds of the mansion, they were as protected as could be. It had been a few weeks since they had joined the student council, and it was with Mike’s reluctance to admit that the group had slightly impressed him, being able to reign in their fear so quick and responded smartly to what had occurred.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Flashback ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Nee, Tat-chan, Leo, what do you think is going to happen when we meet them?” Mikihiko asked his leader and friend, referring to the Public Morals Committee. He was slightly impressed with the student council but that did nothing to how he viewed them, especially when Tatsuya was challenged by the fool that was Hattori Hanzou. Even though it was duel between a first year and a third year, it was absolutely tragic that Tatsuya very much outclassed the third year, in both magical abilities and combat skills. Needless to say, it ended in Hanzou’s defeat in about a five minutes, and that was only because Tatsuya was setting up three of those five minutes. To be fair though, Hanzou was greatly discouraged by Megumi to take back his challenge to the Yotsuba, but that did nothing to the Hattori, who was driven to show that he was better than Tatsuya and thus blind to the gap in abilities between the two of them. 

The challenge, from the moment that it was even uttered, gave both Mikihiko and Leonhart reason to dislike the fool. To challenge a first year was a disgraceful thing to do for a third year, but to challenge made him prey in the eyes of the two. Both cared greatly for their friend, and extremely loyal to him. When the challenge was said, both had immediately moved into positions, Mikihiko behind Hanzou with the tip of his hand ready to pierce the fool’s neck and Leo with his CAD pointed at the fool’s windpipe, both their eyes blank of warmth and cold apathy and rage in them.  One move from either of them would end in Hanzou’s death, and it was at that moment that everyone realized just how far the two would go for Tatsuya and how much they genuinely cared about the genius. Things had stayed like that for a few tense minutes as no one dared to do anythinf. 

Megumi tried to placate the two yet she felt fear when both met her gaze, their eyes conveying their rage. She staggered back and knew that the two would strike own anyone that they deemed a threat to their leader, no matter who the person was or what the consequences were. She realized just how fearsome and how fitting their nicknames, the “White Knight” Leonhart and the “Shadow” Mikihiko, were. Glancing at Tatsuya and seeing a resemblance to his mother that suddenly struck her, she finally understood why her parents and the other clans feared the Yotsuba clan head so much. If her son was a kinder and more humane version of her, just how ruthless and cold was his mother?

For those minutes that seemed to pass like years, no one made a move. Not even Hanzou, as rash as he may seem, made a move for he knew that one wrong move could be his last. No one also threatened to call in the principal or teachers, knowing that the Yotsuba were watching and would interfere if the slightest hint of backlash even blinked and that they would do everything they could to end the “threat”, which would make the situation son much worse. The only people that were calm in that instance was was Miyuki, who walked to her cousin to give him some tea, and Tatsuya himself. It took Tatuya placing down his tea after sipping it for a few minutes and giving his “knights” the order to stand down that both relaxed and moved back to their original friendly state, taking their seats by their friends. 

Laughing softly, Miyuki was the one to break the silence and the tense atmosphere with her comment.

“Maa, looks like the Knights are truly loyal, nee Onii-sama?”

The only response that she got was her cousin standing and leaving with a soft hum of thoughtfulness, heading to the training room. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Tch, don’t remind me. I still want to punch that bastard in the face for even thinking that he was better than Tatsuya. Jeez. For a common magician to challenge the heir of the Yotsubas…he’s lucky that Maya-sama didn’t order for his punishment.” Leo scoffed in slight frustration, rubbing the back of his neck. 

“Indeed. I too wanted to beat some sense into him. How he never saw his complete defeat coming, I will never understand.” Mikihiko agreed as he frowned. 

“What’s done is done now. What is left is for us to move on. Besides, we have to meet the Public Morals Committee today. Last I heard, there are interesting people on it.” Tatsuya stated with a slight smirk. His two friend relaxed and smirks grew on their own lips. A few minutes later, they were in a car belonging to the Yotsubas and headed to the school. Stopping before gate, all three got out and headed to their building but were stopped by Mari herself, a wide grin on her lips.. 

“Yo! Good to see you. Come on, I’ll lead you to the meeting room.” The Public Morals Committee president said as she strolled off, the trio of friends following her. Arriving at the room, Mari opened it and let her guests go in first before entering, closing the door behind her. Walking to the head of the table, she observed the guests, noting their relaxed state in a room of combat proficient upperclassmen. She also noted how Mikihiko and Leon sat on either sides of Tatsuya, who looked apathetic but she could see his curiosity in the gleam of his eyes. Deciding to cut the tension and the awkward silence, she introduced both groups to each other.

“Well, that’s the guests. Any questions?” She asked once she was finished and as she sat in her chair at the head to the table.

“Not at all, Mari. My name is Koutarou Tatsumi and I’d just like to say, on behalf of the senior members, thank you for helping us out.” Koutarou Tatsumi said as he nodded his head in thanks, a friendly smile on his face. 

The trio nodded back, each having a pleasant expression on their faces. 

“Not at all, Koutarou-san. We’re glad to help wherever we can.” Leonhart laughed happily. Whilst this happened, Tatsuya and Miki both hid their lips, Tatsuya using a graceful hand and Miki his cup of tea. Done with observing the members of the committee, Tatsuya left Leo and the senior gush happily about some topic that they were both passionate about and glanced at Miki and saw something interesting. There was a committee member who couldn’t seem to stop glancing at Miki with an interested look in his eyes, a Sawaki Midori, Tatsuya guessed. Miki himself was ignoring the glance though, being next to the Yoshida, he could see a hint of pink on the face of the Onmyouji. Looking at the big picture, Tatsuya laughed mentally. He could see the appeal of the couple and felt his devious side raise its head.

‘Hmm…How interesting. If I’m not mistaken, a certain someone has an attraction to Miki and it looks like Miki is attracted to them too. If their attraction grows, then I suppose that would be good. For now, I’ll let things go on their own path.’ He thought to himself.