Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Chapter 1:

The day that Kirai Momobami had announced to the student council, she had decided to hold a grand election, where people would gamble to collect votes in order to become the next President of Hyakkaou Private Academy. 

Not only was the whole school involved, but adding extra spice to it.

Kirari Momobami had decided to involve her whole extended family, “The Hundred Devouring Family”. 

With the new development that happened with the Tower of Doors. 

Sayaka Igarashi had reached an understanding that she’ll never become the president’s number one, and rather than competing to become her number one, she decided to stand next to her and come to understand and support her president whatever way she can. 

When the doors opened, as the Kirari’s extended family strolled in, with Terano Totobami in the middle, Kirari started talking, introducing the family and exchanging words with other council members, on how this gamble was going to happen.

Everything Kirari spoke began to blur, Sayaka knew about the whole “Bami” extended family, but what she didn’t know was the person that had entered into the room, with bright red-ish orange hair, standing tall in the back left was her ex before she transferred to Hyakkaou Academy, Ibara Obami.

Even worse, they didn’t exactly end on a good note. 

While Sayaka was internally freaking out, she never knew Ibara was a “bami”. Well she did but she never gave much of a thought, especially in the past. 

She never knew what the “bami’s” were, until she met the president. 

Ibara, who was observing each council member one by one, stopped at the Kirari’s secretary. 

Sayaka’s and Ibrara’s eyes connected, staring at each other more than appropriate. They both felt the sudden jolt of electricity they had in the past building up once more, until they were interrupted by Yuriko slamming onto the table, and calling the president’s idea insane.  

Yuriko called out to Sayaka, making her slightly jump. 

“Igarashi-san, your president’s seat is in danger, if you want to protect the president you’ll help me pursue her to stop this insane idea!” Yuriko yelled.

Sayaka was still caught up in the feelings she felt and the shock of seeing Ibara once more. “I-I… Please excuse me, I need to…” Sayaka stumbled her words, feeling flustered. 

Sayaka bowed to the president and proceeded to move past the Bami family and towards the exit. 

Kirari stared at her secretary acting strange. It wasn’t like her. But, before Kirari could say anything, Sayaka had already left the room. 

Ibara who turned to stare at the door where Sayaka left, trying to ignore those feelings he buried years ago.

What Ibara didn’t notice was Rin was glaring at Igarashi Sayaka, during the whole silent exchange. 

Hope you guys like, will post chapter 2 shortly... 

I always wondered what Sayaka would be like if Kirari wasn't her first crush, it would be even more worse when Sayaka's ex turned out to be someone Kirari knew. 

Anyways let me know if you guys like the idea of Sayaka x Ibara or Sayaka x Kirari which you ship you guys want end game.

Just want to establish, Sayaka does still somewhat hold feelings towards Ibara since they are ex's and didn't actually break up mutually. It was mostly a forced break-up. (not going to say how, but it's kinda obvious)

But Sayaka is trying to break-free from those feeling and move on, meaning moving on with her feelings towards Kirari... but who knows maybe she might decide to go back and want to be with Ibara again, but poor Kirari.

Let's find out in Chapter 2 ;)  And let me know what you guys think. :D

Chapter Text

Chapter 2: 

In the girl’s bathroom, Sayaka was washing her face. 

How could her ex appear out of all places, even worse! It was the president’s cousin. 

Sayaka groaned, in frustration. She could feel her feeling for Ibara surging back up again. 

She shook her head. No, what happened in the past, stays in the past. 

The president and her were finally moving towards the next stage of their relationship, not like they were dating, but who could bring up the fact that she dated the president’s cousin. 

No Sayaka refused to let the president know about it. 

As she exited the bathroom, Sayaka took her phone out checking the time. 

It was past noon, afternoon class would start in 5 minutes, meaning the meeting was over. 

Rather than returning back to the student council room, and the risk of bumping into Ibara. Sayaka turned to head to her next period. She had maths, hopefully that would keep her mind off what happened earlier. 

In the President’s room, Kirari was on her laptop trying to do her president’s duty, and Ririka laying on the couch to catch up with rest before craziness that was about to befall on her. 

“Hey Ririka” Kirari called her name, knowing no one was in the room besides them

“Hmm..” Ririka replied, half conscious.

“Did Sayaka seem odd to you in the meeting?”

“You sure you’re not overthinking it? Maybe she had to use the bathroom urgently. I mean it’s normal when accidents happen.” Ririka spoke, wanting to go back to sleep already. Although she still had the mask on, it didn’t bother her as long as she could take a nap.

“No, more like she wasn’t herself.” Kirari was always the type to get to the bottom of things when it comes to Sayaka. If something is bothering Sayaka, Kirari would always be there to fix it. 

“I really think you’re overthinking it.” Ririka spoke with slight irritation in her voice. 

Noticing the irritation from her sister, Kirari decided to drop it. 

Perhaps she’ll have to ask Sayaka herself, that is if she’ll tell her truthfully. 

As afternoon classes had ended, people in her class started to head to the cafeteria for lunch, while some would hang out in the classroom for those who had brought their own lunches.

Sayaka was packing her books, when someone stopped in front of her desk, but knowing who it was, Sayaka didn’t bother to look up. 

“What do you want, Ikishima-san.” Sayaka going straight to the point

Midari clicked her tongue in annoyance as soon as she heard her last name was said rather than her first. 

“It’s Midari, stop with formalities already.” Midari lectured. But quickly changing the topic to the reason why she approached Sayaka in the first place. “Why leave in the middle of the meeting like that? That wasn’t like you.” Midari questioned.

“Why? You worried?” Sayaka teased as she looked up.

“Pleh. Nah, I was just wondering if you needed to do a number 2 so badly and you couldn’t hold it in anymore, and ran out” Midari laughed out loud. 

Sayaka felt her cheek flustered. “ I guess from other’s point of view it would seem like that. ”

“Anyways, Yuriko panicked. She thought she had offended you and you ran out.” Midari informed her, “Well it doesn’t seem like you're offended, so maybe you can put her mind at ease.”

“Since when were you and Nishinotorin-san became so close?” Sayaka questioned, it wasn’t like Midari to become friends with anyone. 

“Eh, we got along great, guess we just became friends along the way.” Midari shrugged. “You never answered my question.” Bring the topic back once more. 

Sayaka felt like she had enough already, and knowing more council members are likely to ask her, and answered as vaguely as possible. “It’s none of your business, just think whatever you want.” 

“Eh… How boring.”

Sayaka didn’t bother commenting back and finished with packing her books, as she stood up and headed for the exit towards the cafeteria. 

Normally she would eat lunch with the president but with what happened earlier, she’s not ready to face the president yet. 

In the president’s room, Runa decided to come down to hang out with the president, while Kirari was still in her seat staring at the door, waiting for a particular person to enter the room. 

30 minutes had passed, and there was still no sign of that person Kirari was waiting for. 

“Hey pres, if you’re not going to eat that, then can I?” Runa pointed to the Kirari’s bento which had been left untouched.

30 minutes in and Kirari was still waiting for Sayaka to have lunch with her. 

With a sigh, and now losing her appetite, knowing her person she’s waiting for isn’t going to come. Kirari motioned Runa, she could have her lunch. 

Runa excitedly grabbed Kirari's lunch and began eating it, while Kirari returned to her work, feeling slightly unpleasant that Sayaka didn’t bother telling her she wasn’t going to be joining her. 

Kirari became confused, had she done anything to push Sayaka away? She thought with what happened at the Towers of Doors, and their feelings towards each other had improved. 

Kirari thought Sayaka's obsession to become her number one was finally over, Sayaka would finally be a lot closer to her, not further! Were they moving too fast? 

With how Sayaka blushed, and her confession before they jumped, there was no way they were moving too fast. 

Kirari groaned in frustration. 

Runa, peaked a look towards her president, how a groan was heard out loud from the president, intrigued Runa’s interest. 

Runa giggled at how the president could easily be riled up by her secretary. 

Yet the president was blind to her own actions towards her secretary, even though it was obvious to all of the student council members.

Meanwhile in the Cafeteria, Sayaka was sitting by herself enjoying her lunch with a cup of tea. 

Scrolling through her tablet, Sayaka was setting up the president’s schedule for upcoming events. A large number of students had already sent an application to book with the president for a gamble, to challenge her with the votes they gained at hand.

It was her job, to decline the ones that would seem “boring” to the president, and accept the ones that might be considered “interesting”, and add it into the oncoming schedules. 

Not only that, it was Sayaka and Runa’s job to answer any email to students that had any inquiry about the grand election. 

While answering emails, Sayaka felt irritated when a rowdy bunch of guys started laughing out loud, smacking their hand hard against the cafeteria’s table.

Sayaka glanced up at the rowdy bunch, and could see they were tormenting the housepets they had under them. The housepets that they gambled and lost, becoming indebt towards the student council. Sayaka didn’t care about the housepet they were bullying although she felt bad for them from time to time. But there was nothing she could do, as it was policy and rule that the president had set up. This was her aquarium, where the fittest for only the strong to survive.

Wanting some peace and quiet, Sayaka let out a sigh, as she stood up to leave. But one of the guys on the rowdy table noticed the president’s secretary was by herself. 

The guy took upon himself and walked towards her. 

“You’re the president’s secretary right?”

Sayaka turned to her person who started talking. It was one of the guys that was on the annoying table, although she couldn’t say she knows who he is, but there was no doubt he was an upperclassmen, probably a third year.

“Can I help you?” Sayaka replied. 

“More like I can help you.” a smirk appeared on his face, as he obviously looked down at her body pervertedly. 

Sayaka reached for her taser, but it was nowhere to be found. She must have left it on her desk, and forgotten it when Midari was talking to her. 

Sayaka cursed for being distracted.

“I don’t know what you want, i’m busy.” Sayaka turned to leave. 

But was quickly blocked.

“Ah! Bup bup bup. You aren’t leaving sweetie.” Sayaka never knew how disgusting it was to be called “sweetie”, especially by this guy. 

“If you’re looking for a gamble, unfortunately I don’t gamble.” Sayaka tried to find a way to make him disinterested in her. 

“Oh I know you don’t gamble, I just came to say. Once I'm student council president you can keep being my secretary. I mean I would love to have a taste of that body.” The guy flirted disgustingly. Oh Sayaka wanted to punch this guy’s face so much.

One of his mates ran up to them panicking as he noticed his friend was messing with the wrong person. 

“Bro! Are you crazy! You’re not president yet, and you’re flirting with the current president’s secretary!” His mate whispered to him loudly, at least this guy seemed to know of the consequences for messing with the council members.

“Mate stop freaking out, i’m going to win for sure.” 

The guy’s friend facepalm at his egoistic friend who would end up regretting everything he said. 

Just as the guy reached his hand to touch Sayaka’s face, a flying punch slammed towards the guy's face knocking him down. 

Sayaka was surprised that someone punched, even though it was well deserved. 

But in this school, no one would stand up for you, if you’re weak and easy to be picked on, that’s on you. Sayaka was about to kick him in the balls, if his hand landed on her, she would’ve ensured the president heard about it too. 

Looking up at the person who angrily punched the guy in the face. 

Of course he would be there, she laughed internally. 

He always had a thing for justice and standing up for things that were right. It was the reason why she fell for him in the first place. 

Sayaka’s eyes were filled with love and pain, remembering their past.

Ibara angrily grabbed her arm, and yanked her out of the cafeteria into the open field. 

“Ow!” Sayaka complained. 

Ibara finally let go of her arm, now that they were on the green field. 

On the field there were a few students eating on the benches on the side, but that wasn’t Sayaka’s concern right now. Her main focus was only on Ibara. Not even noticing Yumeko with Mary along with her group on the other side's bench of the field.

“Why did yo-” Sayaka was interrupted.

“Why did you let him talk to you like that!” Ibara lectured out loud. 

Sayaka didn’t like to be lectured especially by someone who broke her heart. “Why do you care!” Sayaka argued painfully back. 

“Because… The Sayaka I know wouldn’t have taken it.” Ibara argued back. He hid his pain, as he masked it with anger. 

If Ibara hadn’t interrupted, Sayaka wouldn’t have taken it. Ibara just didn’t wait long enough to see it. With this, perhaps he still cared, but yet, she refuses to admit it. 

“...” Sayaka looked away, trying to not let the tears build up as the pain returned once more. 

There was a silence between them, as Ibara stared at her painfully, as she stared across the field. 

“...Why did you leave?” Ibara whispered. 

Ibara’s ability to always speak the truth to her was one of things that made Sayaka love him. 

Sayaka stayed silent, wiping the tears that started to fall down. 

“...You suddenly disappeared and transferred to another school. No warning, no phone call, do you know how worried I was when I couldn’t contact you? You just left.” Ibara whispered angrily. 

“I didn’t have a choice.” Sayaka replied as she shook her head in denial that he still cared. 

Ibara grabbed her shoulders forcing her to look at him.

“What do you mean, you didn’t have a choice?”

“...” she didn’t know how to reply. That he had found her, and to run away she disappeared once more. After investigating how he found her, there was a tip that Ibara was the one who tipped him off of her location. Ibara was the only one who knew of her family situation, she trusted him and he betrayed that trust. She knew it was hard for him to lie, but she didn’t imagine it would come to haunt her.

Sayaka was done with this conversation, this emotional exhaustion that Ibara pushed onto her once more. What happened in the past, should stay in the past.

She placed a hand on his chest, and pushed lightly making him let go of her arms, as he walked a few steps back. Sayaka no longer cared that tears were lightly streaming down her face. 

“I loved you, but don’t forget, you’re the one who wanted to end this.” Sayaka whispered, barely audible.

After hearing those words, Ibara couldn’t help but show how much pain he was in. 

She was right, he was the one who ended the relationship with her, because he didn’t want her to become a target to his own family. 

Even though he would like to tell her the truth, he doubts she would believe him. 

Wiping her tears, she looked deep into his eyes filled with love and pain, as new tears form at the corner of her eyes threaten to fall.

Oh how Ibara wanted to wipe those tears away before the drop.

“Perhaps it's time we moved on…” Sayaka spoke. 

Ibara hated those words, he wanted to start anew now that his brother was the heir for the Obami clan, and he was partly free but not completely.

If he plays it right, perhaps they can have what they had in the past.

“Can’t we start anew?” Ibara replied, as his own tears started to build up. 

Sayaka shook her head, not trusting the words that would come out of her mouth. 

As she moved past him, Ibara grabbed her wrist forcing her to turn back looking at him, as he turned to look at her.

“I still-” Ibara tried to confess.

*Ba-thump*

“Don’t!” Sayaka yelled, interrupting him mid sentence.

She didn’t want to hear it. She didn’t want feelings to start up again. 

“Please...  Just let it go…” Sayaka begged, looking him into his eyes.

Ibara let go of her wrist, as she quickly turned and walked away into the next building. 

Leaving him standing there, thinking what the hell went wrong. He was sure she felt it in that room, that she still had feelings for him. 

But yet, he knows Sayaka, she isn’t always the type to express what she truly feels, and he isn’t the type to give up on the things he wants.

And he wants Sayaka.

Quickly wiping his tears away, he masked it with his usual happy expression, as he turned back towards the cafeteria, heading back to Bami’s room. 

“I feel like we watched something we shouldn’t have” Suzui felt awkward after watching the two argue.

“Eh, none of my business.” Mary shrugged it off. 

While Yumeko just smiled, as something interesting had happened in front of her. 

Sayaka was once again in the bathroom washing her face. She felt emotionally exhausted. 

Lunch was over 10 minutes ago, class had already started. 

Sayaka could still see her eyes were red from crying earlier. 

Sayaka decided it was best to skip class, she didn’t want to explain to the teacher why she was late, then having Midari hassel her afterwards. 

Sayaka turned to head towards the student council’s room. 

Knowing all the members were in class, it was unlikely they would be there. Although it would be nice to have someone to talk to, getting what happened earlier off her mind.

Did he really try to confess to her again, would she have accepted his confession if he did? 

Sayaka shook the thought out of her head as she approached the Student council floor. Just as she was about to approach the student council’s room, the president’s room was one room ahead. 

As she stopped in front of the President’s room, stood there thinking perhaps the president can comfort her, but at the same time she didn’t want to bother the president, and what if the president asked her what was wrong, how would she answer that. 

Even with so many reasons to not enter, she went against her logical decision.

Sayaka took in a deep breath, as she knocked on the door.

There was no answer. 

She knocked again, again no answer. 

Sayaka turned the handle and entered the room, the president was nowhere to be found. Perhaps she was at a meeting she had forgotten about.

Sayaka didn’t know if she was disappointed or relieved.

Walking towards the room and sat on the couch, she could feel the fatigue coming from the emotional exhaustion. 

Perhaps a nap wouldn’t be such a bad idea. 

She grabbed one of the pillows, and placed it on the seat, where her head would rest. 

She laid down on the pillow, and quickly fell into slumber. 

Kirari felt exhausted and hungry, especially because she didn’t get to eat her lunch. Not that it was anyone’s fault, she was the one who gave it away. 

While walking towards her room, with Ririka behind. 

They had gone to a meeting with one that could benefit the Momobami Clan greatly, and with Sayaka’s absence, Ririka had to take her place. 

Ririka was not happy that she had to sacrifice her personal time because Sayaka had forgotten about the meeting.

As they entered the Student Council President’s room. Kirari was surprised someone was sleeping on her couch. 

No one dared to enter the President’s chambers without permission. 

Walking closer, she noticed the sleeping person was the person she had been waiting for all day. 

Her Sayaka was soundly asleep on the couch. 

Ririka noticed the long stare Kirari towards a sleeping Sayaka, deciding to gain her sister’s attention, as she coughed into her hands. 

“Ahem.” Ririka started. 

Snapping Kirari out of place. “Right, your services are no longer needed, you may head home first if you’d like.” 

Ririka nodded, and exited the room. 

Kirari sat on the coffee table, facing towards Sayaka’s sleeping form. 

She stroked her hand against Sayaka’s cheek, trying to not notice how smooth they were. 

Sayaka began to stir, she sleepingly talked and said out loud “I can’t love you.” 

And a tear fell from her closed eyes.

Kirari wiped the tear away, her chest clenched. Did Sayaka not feel the same way about her? No. Perhaps she’s dreaming about something else. 

Kirari began to doubt that what they feel towards another, is now all one-sided.

If Sayaka really didn’t feel the same way, there is no point in keeping up with all the teasing, flirting and light kisses on the cheek and forehead.

A cold expression to form on Kirari’s face. She got up and walked towards the oak cupboard, grabbing a blanket, as she lightly laid it across Sayaka’s sleeping form, not waking her up. 

Not wanting to stay, she grabbed her things and left.

Okey now I feel bad for both Ibara and Kirari. 

Poor Kirari misunderstanding everything, but hopefully Sayaka will make it up to her soon!

Who do you guys like more in this ship Ibara or Kirari?

Let's hope chapter 3 is a bit more happy. 

Chapter Text

Chapter 3: 

Sayaka was disappointed that the president didn’t wake her up yesterday. 

She had overslept, and by the time she had woken up it was night time, way past after school hours. 

After she had arrived home, the head maid was so worried something had gone wrong, but after explaining she overslept at school, she had gotten an earful lecture on sleeping in random places. 

Saying if she was tired, she should’ve returned home and rested, rather than sleeping in an unsecured place, knowing her importance as being the heir and all.

Arriving at school the next day, Sayaka headed straight to the Student council room, on the way there, she kept getting weird glances at her from students as she passed by. 

Some giggled, others stared or smiled, and a few gave glares. 

Sayaka was used to people talking about her, due to her close position to the president, but it wasn’t ever like this.

Ignoring the students, Sayaka entered the Student Council room, and greeted all the council members. 

“Good morning everyone,” Sayaka said, as she walked towards the president.

“Good morning President.” As Sayaka turned to her president, she gave a personal morning greeting to the president.

“Good morning Sayaka” Kirar returned the greeting, as she smiled, setting her hot tea down.

A loud laugh erupted from the middle of the table, catching everyone’s attention.

“Something interesting Runa?” The president became intrigued with Runa’s outburst.

“Sure is Pres!” Runa exclaimed, as the lollipop stick stuck on the left side of her mouth. 

Runa enlarged a picture on the “Daily Hyakkaou News Paper” on her tablet, before turning it around for everyone to see. 

As soon as Sayaka saw the picture, she rushed to Runa’s side to take the tablet off of her, but was quickly snatched by Midari instead. 

Midari stared deep into the picture of the tablet, and read out loud for everyone to hear. “The president’s secretary was saved by a mysterious knight in shining armor.” 

Midari then laughed at the ridiculous news, “Oi! Sayaka, since when did you have a secret admirer?” Midari grinned at her, teasing as much as she could. 

Sayaka couldn’t help but feel flustered as she tried to grab the tablet once more, but it was still out of reach. 

Just a little bit more.

“Is this why you skipped class yesterday? I hope you’re not planning to hurt our President’s feelings.” Midari teased as she pushed Sayaka buttons. Not realizing she lowered the tablet. 

Sayaka snatched the tablet as soon as she saw the chance. 

“What nonsense are you on about?” Sayaka retorted. 

Sayaka scrolled through the online school newspaper, there were two pictures. 

One, an action shot of Ibara punching the perverted guy in the face, which Sayaka could admit was a nice shot. And another, of Ibara dragging Sayaka out of the cafeteria. 

Sayaka mentally facepalms herself. Of course the newspaper club always happens to be present, when something juicy happens. At least they didn’t get what happened in the courtyard. 

“Runa, tell the newspaper club to take this down now.” Sayaka demanded. 

“Hmmm…” Runa pretending to think. “No.” she replied. 

Before Sayaka could get angry the President spoke. “Now, now, no need to get hasty. Perhaps you can explain this Sayaka.” 

Sayaka turned around to face the President. 

Kirari had her own tablet out looking at the same news and pictures that everyone was so hyped up on. 

“Whoop, that’s our que, time to leave” Runa spoke as she stood up. Pushing all her lollies on the tables and games into her backpack as she got ready. 

“Aww… But I wanted to know too!” Midari whined, but was disrupted when Yuriko pinched her ear, “It’s none of your business. Now come on, let's go.” Yuriko dragged Midari out of the room. 

“Ow! Ow! Ow!” could be heard from Midari as she was dragged out of the room by the end of her ear.

The remaining members had gotten up and left, closing the door behind them.

Leaving Sayaka alone with her president. 

Sayaka swallowed the breath she was holding, she didn’t know how long she stood there until her president spoke. “Well, I’m waiting, Sayaka.”

Sayaka let out a sigh, as she walked towards her president. 

From what Sayaka can examine, Kirari didn’t seem angry, as she still had her calm expression, but then knowing the president. Anything that has anything to do with her president is unpredictable, even her thoughts towards her.

Sayaka pulled out the chair and sat next to the president, buying as much time as possible. 

“Yesterday…” Sayaka started slowly.

“Hmm…” Kiari turned, as she leaned lightly into her palm. Looking at Sayaka with penetrating eyes, as she gave her a small smile. 

A que to continue. 

Sayaka coughed into her right fist before starting again. 

“Yesterday, I wasn’t feeling well. Hence why I left the meeting earlier. I was too embarrassed to come eat lunch with you after what had happened.” Sayaka explained, as she partly lied, staring at the table.

Taking a peak glance towards her president. 

Kirari smiled at Sayaka as she saw her shyly glanced towards her, before quicking diverted her stare elsewhere before continuing.

“So I decided to eat lunch in the cafeteria, there was a group of guys being loud and as I stood up to leave, but when one of them came up to me. He was very rude and acted…”

“Acted?” Kirari repeated.

“... inappropriately.” Sayaka tried to word it nicely. 

As soon as Sayaka finished her sentence, she could feel chills down the back of her neck. 

She quickly turned to look at her president, seeing a cold hard stare. 

“Who is this student, give me their name and I'll be sure this person never-” Kirari was cut-off by a soft touch.

Sayaka had placed her hand over hers. 

Sayaka looked softly into Kirari's eyes, “It has been taken care of.” Sayaka could see Kirari’s shoulders relax a bit before continuing. “As I was saying. Yes, he acted inappropriately. When he reached to touch me, Ibara.”

“Ibara?” Kirari raised an eyebrow

“I-I mean, Obami-kun came in and punched him in the face before he could even touch me. Before matters could get worse, Obami-kun dragged me out of the cafeteria, hence the photos in the newspaper article.”

After she finished explaining, Sayaka could help but feel nervous from the quiet response. 

“Looks like I would have to thank Ibara for protecting my precious secretary, perhaps I should reward him.” Kirari replied, thinking of what reward she should give.

This made Sayaka nervous because she didn’t want the president to pick up on their past relationship, but then again, she’s sure that even Ibara himself won’t spill the beans of their unpleasant past to the head of the clan. 

If the other bami family knew about it. Ibara would have a target on his back and would be seen as weak to the clan. 

Sayaka decided to let Kirari do whatever she wanted, stopping her would only make her suspicious. 

---

Meanwhile in the Bami’s room there was a meeting by Totobami with the rest of the clan besides the Momobami of course. 

Terano was currently holding a meeting on how we should approach this, and they should deal with Yumeko, although their main focus should be on Kirari herself. 

Ibara didn't pay much attention in the meeting, he could always grab the details later from his brother. Although the whole meeting he couldn’t help but feel something was off about him. 

Ibara was snapped out of thought as Terano had ended the meeting.

“And that is all. If all of you please not to get in trouble, we can avoid any unnecessary losses” Terano spoke and glared at the members that usually cause trouble for her. 

Everyone got up to leave, ready to explore their new environment and see what gambles they could seek out. 

Who knows maybe one of them may be lucky and get Yumeko to gamble with them. 

As Ibara got up and followed his brother Rin closely behind. 

They continue to walk in awkward silence until they reach an empty open area. 

“Hey Rin, are you okay? You seem awkwardly silent.” Ibara spoke in concern. 

Rin turned around with his signed smile and closed eyes. 

Rin slowly opened his eyes looking straight into Ibara’s. 

“Nothing of concern, but i did happen to see this on Hyakkaou’s Daily Newspaper '' Rin said as he passed a tablet to Ibara. 

The screen highlighted this morning “hot news” of Ibara saving Sayaka yesterday in the Cafeteria. 

Ibara couldn’t help but slightly blush at his overly confident embarrassing act yesterday. 

Ibara knew now why his brother was in such a grouchy mood. 

Ibara kind of knew his brother had this weird obsession with him, but because they were brothers and with their separation in their early childhood, he didn’t think much of it. 

Instead he always thought of it as some separation anxiety or his desire to reconnect with each as brothers again. 

Ibara smiled at the tablet and to Rin, as he handed the tablet back to him. 

“What of it? Is this what got you upset? Me helping my Ex?” Ibara questioned. 

“... You said you weren’t going to see her,” Rin said still displeased. 

Ibara smiled, “I guess I can't help but be her knight in shining armor.” Ibara joked as he quoted the newspaper. 

Still not pleased, “She hurt you. That person disappeared and you were depressed for months.” slightly raise his voice. 

Ibara no longer smiled. “She has her reasons,” he reasoned. 

“Why do you always defend her!” Rin bursted. 

“Can’t you see? She is not going to care and she's just going to hurt you again.” Rin tried to reason.. 

Taking a deep breath, and slowly letting it out, releasing his anger, so Ibara doesn’t end up punching his brother in the face. 

Ibara knew Rin never approved of his relationship with Sayaka in the past. 

No, correction. Rin never approved of anything he dated in his life. 

Even after Ibara broke up with Sayaka, after she had disappeared and was depressed. 

He started to date other girls to try to get rid of the unsettling feelings he still had for her, flinging with other girls, but that didn’t last long. Not because that the Family started to lecture him about sleeping around and bringing shame to the Obami family. But, because each girl had told him that his brother had something to do with their ending fling, but not clarifying details with him. 

Ibara didn’t mention anything to his brother, he thought of it as he was looking out for him, but it still irritated him that Rin got involved in his personal affairs. 

“No matter what happened to Sayaka and I, you have no say in anything relating between her and I.” Ibara strongly spoke leaving no room for discussion. 

Rin turned to leave, and Ibara just sighed and slowly followed his brother a few steps behind.

Chapter Text

Chapter 4

It was late in the evening around 11:00 pm. Sayaka was still sitting on her study desk typing away on her computer with the lamp on, on the corner of her desk. 

There was a gentle knock on the door. 

“Come in” Sayaka granted the permission for the person on the other side to enter. 

The head maid entered, “Milady, it’s quite late, shall I bring you some tea?” 

“No, I'll be heading off to bed soon.” Sayaked spoke as she stretched her arms in the air, still in her casual wear.

“Very will milady. Please let me know if you require anything further.” The maid turned ready to leave. 

“May-san,” Sayaka spoke. 

The maid turned around in acknowledgment. 

“Please let me know if the head of the family calls.” Sayaka sighed. 

The maid nodded and bowed to her in respect before leaving the room.

The anniversary for the Oogami Clan is almost here, looking at the calendar on her desk. It’s about a week from now. 

Being the heir to the Oogami Clan, Sayaka has no choice but to attend the party. 

That he, her grandfather, had found her. The leader of the Oogami Clan, Genji Oogami. 

Sayaka was removed from her previous school and forced to move closer to the Clan’s location. 

She has been under his watch since, even if they weren’t living in the same household.

Her Grandfather would always call once in a while to make sure she was in line and not embarrassing the family’s name. 

Sayaka’s last name “Igarashi” was taken from her mother’s maiden name.

She had taken her mother’s maiden name as a disguise, protecting herself from any dangers, and the main reason to avoid her Grandfather’s detection to live freely. But as you can see that plan had gone into the bonfire, when she was ratted out by her so-called boyfriend at the time. 

Sayaka’s parents died at an early age, when she was 10 years old. Due to wars between the families of trying to take away the leadership from her Grandfather’s hold, by killing his only son, Sayaka’s father, Ryuusaki Oogami.

Since the death of her parents, she had been living under her grandfather’s strict protection, forcing her to live up to her Grandfather’s expectation in being the next and only heir to the Oogami Clan.  

And of course no matter what she did, her grandfather never acknowledged her accomplishment, belittling all the things she had done and pushing her to surpass her passed father’s accomplishments. Telling her; ‘ Is that it?’, ‘try harder!’, ‘Maybe if you weren’t as weak, you could have surpassed her father by now.

Sayaka rubbed the bridge of her nose with right index and thumb, as she took off her glasses with her other hand. Leaning back on her leather office chair. 

This brought her memories of her past. 

Sayaka had purposely taken up the scholarship by studying well above the curriculum, and transferring into a farthest away location for middle school. 

She took her mother’s maiden name to hide herself from her Grandfather and ran away from her bloodline duties.

Sayaka had brought the head maid that worked under her Mother before she passed away, to live away from her Grandfather’s watch, and avoid her getting tormented by her Grandfather to find her location if she had left her behind. 

The head maid always taught her to be loving, gentle and caring. She was the only person who was there to cheer her up after being reprimanded by her grandfather. 

Sayaka didn’t automatically blend with the crowd at her new scholarship school, it took time to make friends, and in fact she was quite popular with the boys. Although she didn’t know about it due to personality of not understanding relationships, she tends to overlook it as an admiration. 

That perception of not wanting to be in a relationship at an early age changed when she met Ibara. 

Ibara often always had a warm vibe, and with the looks of a bad boy. Causing all the girls to flaunt all over Ibara to obtain his attention. Sayaka did not pay any mind to him at all, which caught Ibara’s attention towards her. 

Sayaka always brushed him off, and every time he would ask her to be his girlfriend. 

But eventually with effort he put trying to sweep off her feet paid off, his sweet gestures, comments and gifts everyday at school. Being the person to support her when she was down even when she could not explain the problem to him, but just the fact she ran from her family. Ibara would always lend an ear to her sweet heart. His cheekiness, trying to steal a kiss from her when she wasn’t looking, and he stole every single one. 

They were known as the cutest and hottest couple on the campus. 

They went out for 3 years, Sayaka had always thought Ibara would be the person she would marry and grow old with. 

But after all the ups and down they have been through in their relationships, she still doesn’t understand why Ibara broke up with her, with no obvious reasons. 

It was not long after that, her Grandfather had found her. Sayaka had heard rumors from Rin that Ibara leaked her location to her family. Sayaka believed in Rin, after all they were brothers and they were close, even though they were living in separate households.

 And thus, they went their separate ways, there was no point saying goodbye to a man who betrayed her. 

She said her farewell to her friends and hugged Rin and thanked them for being there before she left. 

Ping * Ping * Ping * 

The text alert on Sayaka’s phone broke Sayaka from her thoughts. 

Looking at her phone brought a smile to Sayaka’s face. Her earlier thoughts were already leaving her mind. 

A text message from the president.

‘You still awake?’ it read. 

‘Good evening president, is there anything you need?’ Sayaka replied,  keeping it professional as always. 

‘President? Why don’t you drop the formalities. After all, there is only you and I here. *winky face*’

‘I don’t think that would be appropriate…’ 

‘Sayaka, If i have to think of what is appropriate everytime i’m around you. I don’t think I'll ever be able to keep my hand to myself.’

‘President!’ Sayaka blushed at the comment. 

‘Just a little laugh, Sayaka. *smiley face*’ 

‘But on a serious note, it’s about time you should address my name’ 

‘Your name?’ Sayaka was confused. Her phone buzzed again at the notification. 

Lightly blushing at the text that came through. 

‘ KI RA RI’ Sayala didn’t know how to respond, before another text came through. 

‘I am going to call you, to make sure I can hear you say it.’ Sayaka was stunned at the blunt request.

…Wait, what? Sayaka was not prepared. 

Immediately her phone was vibrating from the phone call coming through, with the president ID showing on the tiny screen. 

Quickly swiping the pick up line and placing the phone directly on her ear, as she waited for a response to come through. 

It was quiet, Sayaka wasn’t sure the president was there so she decided to speak first.

“Hello, Presi-'' but Sayaka was interrupted with a deering voice through the speaker. 

“Ah, ah, ahhh~~, It’s Ki~ Ra~ Ri~” her voice sang as she drew out each syllable. 

“But, Pr-president!” 

“Ara Sayaka, you used to be so cute when you were in middle school and listened to everything I say.” 

“President! Please stop bringing up my embarrassing past!” Sayaka whined, as she blushed heavily, covering her face of embarrassment. 

“I guess I won’t pressure you if you really don’t want to say me name *sigh*” Kirari sighed in disappointment 

Feeling bad for the president, Sayaka gulped whatever courage she had left.

Quietly Sayaka started “ K-kirari…” 

“What was that, it was too quiet, I couldn’t quite hear,” Kirari teased, Sayaka could already imagine the smirk on her face right now as she was red like a tomato. 

“Kirari, Kirari, Kirari, Kirari!” Sayaka screamed through the phone 

The phone was quiet once more, and just felt like this was on fire, feeling hot and flushed. 

Sayaka could hear Kirari chuckling on the other side of the phone. 

“Tomorrow, let’s go out for lunch, just you and I.” Kirari suggested. 

 Sayaka couldn’t help but smile at what she heard. “T-that sounds lovely.” 

“Than it’s a date” 

“A-a date?” 

“Of course, come around the flower garden when lunch start, i’ll have the chef make all your favorites” 

“You don’t have to do that Kirari, just the normal would’ve been fine.” Sayaka could already imagine Kirari over doing the Lunch date. 

“No, no, after all this is our first date, I want to leave a good impression.” 

“You really are taking this too seriously.” Sayaka couldn’t help but comment, still not fully convinced this is “really” a date. 

“I think it’s about time that I take this seriously...” 

Huh? What is going on? Sayaka is so confused. 

Did Kirari just confess she wanted them to be more than just friends? 

Playing it safe, Sayaka didn’t want to get her hopes up. 

“I… I don’t know what you mean?” 

“...” There was silence on the other side. 

Did Sayaka hurt Kirari’s feelings?

Suddenly there was a giggle on the other side. “Of course, I was just joking.” 

“Ha ha, that was a good joke. You got me there” Sayaka couldn’t help but feel disappointed. 

“But I am serious about the lunch though.” 

Suddenly there was a quiet knock on the door. 

The head maid had bowed in respect to her, waiting for her to finish her call. 

“Apologies, but the night is quite late. I’ll see tomorrow.” 

“Good night Sayaka.” 

“Good night to you too, President,” Sayaka smiled.

Just as Sayaka ended the call, the head maid spoke “Milady, Oogami-sama has started a conference call in the meeting room, and is currently waiting for your presence. Along the leaders and other heirs” 

Sayaka let a out a deep sigh*. Sayaka really felt like going to bed, but duty calls and Sayaka can’t afford getting on her grandfather’s bad side anymore. 

Intentionally not appearing and embarrassing her grandfather in front of other leaders was the last thing she wanted to do. 

Sayaka got off her chair and headed into the meeting room. 

The Meeting room was a dark room that was barely lit, but light enough for you to vaguely see where you were walking towards. There was a large display screen in the middle, with several slightly smaller screens evenly on each side, the bright screen gave the room a little bit more light.  There was a brown leather chair in the middle, and in front of the chair was a Webcam facing towards the seat. The dark room was enough to still cover the person in the chair’s identity in the shadows. This helps all the leaders and heirs to hide their identity if the conference call ever gets hacked by the enemy. 

As Sayaka sat in the brown leather chair, she was greeted by her Grandfather, as he saw a shadow move on Sayaka’s display screen, knowing she had finally entered the meeting room. 

“Ah nice to finally have you join us Sayaka” her Grandfather spoke in a sarcastic tone.

“Apologies, I had a meeting earlier.” Sayaka spoke in a calm voice. 

“Hmm…” Genji acknowledged her answer. 

“Why have you called us here, Genji?” As one of the leaders spoke on the screen. Even though the shadow covered his identity, Sayaka knew who this person was. 

There was no other person in this room who would have the courage to speak with such confidence and directness to her Grandfather.

“Always straight to the point, as always Daisuke.” Oogami replied with a grin.

Daisuke was the head of the Inuhara Clan.

As Daisuke patiently waited for Genji to continue. 

“As you know the Oogami’s Clan 20th Anniversary of empowerment is coming up. I’d like to invite you all to attend, as a celebration for our unity. The Oogami Clan would not have survived this long without everyone’s collaboration with us.” Genji spoke. 

“You say unity, but did we have a choice?” the heir of the Ito Clan spoke out loud. 

Genji grinned at the bold comment, it had been a while since anyone was brave enough to speak up to him.

There were a few leaders here who were under Genji’s ruling who did not join by choice but rather by force, as the majority remained silent in the background. 

Only a few of them who chose to be under Genji’s ruling, have sworn loyalty to him to the last of their dying breath, including Daisuke. 

These loyal followers were just as strong and powerful as Genji, and in comparison if all the leaders who were against Genji had combined together, they would still not have enough power to overrule Genji. 

Had the weaker parties not joined under Genji ruling, their own clan would go extinct, having every bloodline linked to their clan to be slaughtered. 

“I-I Apologies Oogami-sama!” the head of the Ito Clan quickly apologizes to Genji. 

“Please forgive my son, this is the first time he joined us in a meeting. He has yet to be taught the proper etiquettes, he shall be punished for the behavior he had shown!” The head of the Ito Clan gave Genji the full formal bow, showing his full respect to the Oogami clan. 

“Now, now.” Genji tried to calm the frantic Ito’s Clan’s Leader. “As long as the Ito Clan remains loyal to the Oogami Clan, all mistakes are forgiven.” he said with a calm yet an unemotional expression. 

Ito's Clan Head would be a fool to believe any word that came out of Genji’s mouth, but any further words would not make the matter any better. He swallowed whatever saliva he had and gently sat back down, remaining silent for the rest of the meeting. 

“Now back to the topic, the Anniversary will be held in 2 weeks time. I am looking forward to you all to attend this party. Because we will have a new Clan joining our group from that day onwards.” Genji announced. 

There were mumbles in the background, but quiet enough to not hear what they were saying. 

“A new member?” was heard in the background. 

“I hope you haven’t gone insane.” spoke Art, the head of the Asguard Clan. Another loyal follower of Genji, he was a foreigner given his half American background. 

“Such rude words.” spoke Ryoata, head of the Lionhart Clan. He always had a thing for etiquetteness. 

“Can you at least tell us who this new Clan will be joining us?” questioned by Nio, head of the Kuzunoha. This news had peaked in her interest. 

Nio was the same age as Sayaka, due to being the last living blood member of the Kuzunoha  Clan, she became the head. Nio has been friends with Sayaka since their childhood, and visited Sayaka many times in their Oogami main household, before Sayaka’s parents had died. Just like Sayaka, Nio uses a different last name ‘Harshi’ in public to hide her identity.

“No can do kiddo, you’ll just have to find out on the day.” Genji replied, he had always been a little softer to the Kuzunoha Clan given the circumstances that their Clan was half slaughtered by the Azuma Clan. 

“That is the end of this meeting, you’ll all receive a formal invitation letter in your mail tomorrow. You are all dismissed.” Genji ordered. 

Just as Sayaka was about to leave, “Sayaka you stay, I need to speak with you.” 

Ah this isn’t good. When the screens turned off one by one, leaving Genji  alone with his granddaughter. 

“Is there something you need, Grandfather? Or should I say Genji Oogami-sama?” Sayaka knew she was playing with fire. But right now they don’t have the best of relationships. 

“Pleh. Nah, I hate formalities, especially when we are related by blood.” 

Sayaka remained silent, waiting for him to continue. 

“How old are you now Sayaka?” 

“....16” 

“16. It has been 6 years since your parents died.” Her grandfather pondered. “If only you had the courage and bravery back then, you would’ve had the ability to activate the 

chain of command’ ability, when your father passed the Oogami’s ability to you during that incident.” Sayaka unconsciously frowned as the memories were brought back up.

“If only you had used it, your parents would be alive today, and my son would’ve been sitting in this seat right now. I would've happily retired.” Genji casually motioned out loud, blowing out the smoke from the Kiseru he smoked. 

“You just stood there and watched your parents die in front of you. You are no better than the ones who took them away.” 

“...” Sayaka kept silent, keeping her head down.

“But no matter, it is time for you to step up and be a true heir to our clan. As you are the last direct bloodline to me.” 

Sayaka looked up at the screen, surprised at her Grandfather’s words. 

“No words child? You should be honored you haven been given a 2nd chance.” 

“I… “ Sayake tried to speak, but her throat felt as if it was dry as sand. 

Ever since the incident,  Sayaka had only been merely a shadow, and title of the heir to the Oogami clan had been just for image. 

“Starting tomorrow, you will come to the main household and train at night, straight after school.” Genji stated, already making plans for her future. 

“When you turn 18, you will be engaged in an arranged marriage” 

“M-marriage? Wait, this is too sudden!” Sayaka bursted in shock. 

“Of course, we need to secure the bloodline as soon as possible. After we introduce you formally on the Anniversary date, we will formally announce your role and seek a fiance for you with one of the other Clan heirs.” 

“No, wait. I… this is… “ Sayaka wanted to object to this absurd idea. 

Finally announcing her as the heir is one thing, but to… Marriage !?  Sayaka could not wrap her head around this, at the same time it’s not like she had a say in any of this. 

What about Kirari? Sayaka was hoping something good was about to happen between them. 

And Ibara? Sayaka doesn’t know how she feels about igniting an old flame, but she knows she still cares for him. 

“This is not negotiable Sayaka.” Genji spoke with a firm voice. 

Sayaka didn’t dare to speak, and nodded. 

Genji smiled, “Good. Now it’s quite late, I'll see you tomorrow night.” 

“Good night, Grandfather.” Sayaka bowed to Genji, and the screen switched off.

Until next time :)