I flatten myself against the wall, peering into the next hallway. Right now everyone is busy packing their things, so everyone is inside their room. The only person who is not packing is Okita, because Hijikata ordered him to rest and don't do anything...so he can't pack and can't go on patrol thanks to his illness. Okita is of course angry for that, but his tuberculosis is getting worse... and now he also has a fever all the time, and he coughs much more...so I'm relieved to know that he is forced to rest at least a little.

And the cherry on the top is that Yamazaki was the one entrusted with the duty of packing also Okita's things...so Okita is of course really pissed off for that, and this is why I'm here.

I sigh, but then someone puts a hand on my shoulder, making me jump surprised. Mana chuckles <<i see that someone's on edge, you should also watch your back in moments like this, you know?>> I roll my eyes annoyed <<and you weren't supposed to arrive from the other hallway? Well, it doesn't matter. we're ready?>> she crosses her arms <<of course. I told Shiro that Karasu Tengu was looking for him. He ran away immediately, probably in search for Chizuru's help. So this mean that we have more or less ten minutes before he understand that I lied>> I nod <<yeah...Chizuru is smart, and she know us well. It won't take her long to realize that we lied to Shiro>> and I shake my head <<i don't have anything against him, but...i really didn't miss how Shiro always follow me everywhere because he's my bodyguard. At least you don't follow rules, and this is why I like you>> she smirks <<you can say that again. Now, it's best If we begin. Do you and your friend have prepared everything?>> I nod <<of course, when you've done your part I will take that book and hide...and Okita is already waiting in the courtyard in the back with the sack>> she nods happy <<good, then...it's time to play >> and she walks toward Hijikata's room.

She knocks, and in a few seconds Hijikata opens the door with a really irritated face <<what do you want? If you are searching for Nura or her brother they're not here>> but she shakes her head <<oh no, I wanted only to try something. Why did the chicken cross the road?>> and I cover my mouth, trying not to laugh.

Hijikata looks at her puzzled and angry for a long moment <<what?>> but Mana crosses her arms <<come on, just go along with it...or are you really as grumpy as the others say?>> he growls <<i don't have time for this nonsense, go away>> but she didn't move <<well, i'm not leaving until I finish my little story>> but he slams the door in front of her face, leaving her out.

Mana sighs annoyed, but then she starts knocking repeatedly on the door. After thirty seconds Hijikata open's again the door, screaming <<cut it out!>> and I shake trying not to laugh. I also see Mana bits her lip for a second, trying not to laugh <<i will, only if you play along. So...Why did the chicken cross the road?>> he looks at her for a long moment, with a really angry and annoyed face... but in the end he growls <<why?>> and she smiles with an innocent face <<to get to the idiot house>> and she knocks amused on the wall near <<knock knock>> Hijikata rolls his eyes <<what now?>> but she shakes her head <<no no, you have to ask 'who's there?'>> and Hijikata takes a big breath...probably for control his anger <<who's there?>> and she chuckles <<the chicken!>> and she laughs a little. Hijikata immediately slams shut the door of his room in front of Mana, leaving her out.

I chuckle, noting that he reacted exactly like Shiro when we used the chicken's joke with him. He was so offended that he immediately kicked us out of his room.

Mana shrugs <<mmh, tough crowd, but...>> she smiles <<also familiar. Okay, it's time to use the hard way>> and she quickly opens his door, running inside the room.

I hear a loud noise, followed by a scream of surprise and anger from Hijikata. After that Mana runs out at full speed, and she immediately runs away. Hijikata, with a furious face, jumps outside his room, and begins to follows Mana...disappearing behind the corner.

I quickly run inside Hijikata's room and close the door. I look around, noticing that Hijikata's desk is upside down, and his documents are all over the floor. Well, it appear that Mana gave the best of herself, but I will compliment her later...now I need to find it before Hijikata comes back.

I begin to search for that damn book, but after two minutes I was still searching.

I sigh closing his wardrobe <<where did he hide it this time?>> I already searched inside is desk, in his wardrobe and around the room.

I tap my foot on the floor annoyed, but then I hear a little creak. I look down, noticing that the tatami near me now is slightly raised.

I kneel down, and I quickly raise the tatami...and I immediately find Hijikata's book under it. I smile and quickly take it, running away.

I walk toward the courtyard, where Okita is waiting...but when I arrive I see something odd. I hide myself behind a corner...and I peek toward the garden, where Okita and Rikuo are talking. What are those two doing together? They can't stand each other, so I wonder why Rikuo is here. They seem to be talking about something serious...and I have the feeling that I shouldn't interrupt.

Okita looks annoyed at him <<then you're not just a wimp like I thought, you can do more than complain and hide behind your sister all the time>> but Rikuo remains serious <<i don't care what you think of me, you just have to promise me>> Okita crosses his arms <<funny, you should know that your sister doesn't need someone to keep an eye on her>> but Rikuo shakes his head <<i don't want that you keep an eye on her, but she wants to remain her...so please, protect her...it's all I ask. I'm forced to leave her here, so please help her>> Okita raises an eyebrow <<and what makes you think your sister needs my protection? the other night we all saw what she is capable of doing>> but then he smirks amused <<oh right, you don't remember. So let me tell you that your request doesn't even deserve an answer>> I shiver...not really knowing what I'm feeling.

I'm angry, because he's mean with Rikuo, but...until now, Okita always protected me...and I told Rikuo that. My little brother is so worried about me that he's asking for Okita's help. This make me so happy, and in the same time...Okita recognized my strength. He doesn't need to say it...but he always saved me. At Ikedaya, that night at Shimabara...and when I fought Mikio he came for me. I was worried that i had become a burden to him, but after my transformation he saw my new strength. Still...every time I needed him, he was there. I don't know why, but even after our last fight I'm sure that this won't change, because I trust him.

I put a hand on my chest...feeling a warm sensation... I'm so lucky to have a brother like Rikuo and a friend like Okita.

Rikuo sighs <<you're unbearable, arrogant and childish>> Okita shrugs <<no one asked your opinion, in fact... shouldn't you be in bed? If Riko sees you here she'll worry>> he grins mocking him <<and you don't want to worry your big sister, right?>> Rikuo tries to answer, but I sigh and walk toward him <<Rikuo, why are you here? You should be in your bed. You need rest>> Rikuo jumps surprised and looks at me, pushing his glasses on his nose <<big sister! How long have you been here?>> I pat his head <<enough to know that you should be in bed instead of here worrying about me. You still have a fever, you know?>> but Rikuo frowns and points his finger toward Okita <<but he also has a fever!>> I cross my arms <<true, but he's not my brother>> Okita nods <<listen kid, my health is not your problem. Also, I'm lucky that I don't have an over-reacting sister who follow me everywhere, so leave me out>> I grin <<yeah, but there is Hijikata here, and he over-react all the time...and he's worst than me>> he sighs <<mmh>> but in the end he smiles amused.

I look at Rikuo and sigh <<you're right, but your fever is different and you know it. If you don't rest you will never recover, because your body is still weakened by your transformation. Also if you don't rest mum, grandpa and the others will worry...and of course I'll worry too, so please...>> Rikuo bits his lips, but in the end he sighs and nod. I move closer and put a hand on his shoulder <<i'm happy that you're worried about me, but trust me...i will be okay>> he nods and after that he goes away.

Okita sighs <<finally he's gone, I was starting to think he'd never leave>> I smile <<he's just stubborn, but I can't complain because I'm worse than him>> I look at him <<by the way...thank you>> he looks at me puzzled <<for what now?>> I blush and look away, a little embarrassed <<well, I heard what you said to Rikuo...and I realized that you helped me a lot. You always said that you'll be the one to kill me, but the true is that without you I wouldn't be here...so thank you>> he coughs and look away <<bullshit, how many times do I have to tell you? I will be the one to kill you someday, so I can't let anyone else kill you before me>> I look at him, noticing that his eyes are not cold and mocking like always...they are almost warm and reassuring.

I chuckle <<yeah, yeah, but I'm still happy>> he shrugs annoyed <<where is Mana? She should already be here>> I sigh <<true, but she's supposed to escape from Hijikata, and we both know that it's not easy. let's give her a few more minutes>> he sighs and we continue to wait.

Finally, after four minutes, Mana arrives out of breath. She catches her breath <<sorry, I'm late. Damn, you were right...that guy is really fast and stubborn. it's hard to run away from him>> I laugh <<but not impossible>> and I look around <<but...the noise you two made around the headquarters are enough. I bet that he will be here at any time>> Mana grins <<yeah>> and Okita takes an old brown sack from under the engawa.

Me and Mana sit together in the garden, and Okita hides himself behind a tree, and we wait...

After thirty seconds a small figure flies above us. When Karasu Tengu sees us he swoops down toward our direction, and stops in front of our faces with a really angry face. He screams moving his arms and legs furious <<what the hell are you two doing?! Hijikata-san is still screaming in the common room and his room is a mess! How many times do I have to tell you two not to make stupid pranks?! You are not little girls anymore, so you need to stop! Your behavior is really terrible and you can't continue like this!>> and he continues to yells at us.

We remain silent, and wait. In the meantime Okita comes out from his hiding place and he gets closer. He stops behind Karasu Tengu, and the little yokai was so angry that he didn't hear anything.

Okita, with a quickly move, grabs Karasu Tengu. The little yokai gasps shocked and surprised, but Okita puts him in the sack with Hijikata's book. We quickly help him and we close the sack, trapping him inside.

Karasu Tengu screams and moves inside the bag, trying to free himself without success, but Mana takes the sack and put it on the tree nearby <<enjoy the reading!>> and I chuckle <<we'll free you in a few hours, bye!>> and we run away.

Karasu Tengu in the end was found after one hour by an unlucky Nagakura, who was forced to listen to his complains. After that, according to our plan...Karasu Tengu flew to Hijikata with the book, and the little yokai began to annoy him in every way trying to teach him to write better poems.

...

I look at the scene in front of me, feeling a little sad and happy at the same time. All the captains of the Shinsengumi are outside the headquarters, in the garden...for the last goodbyes.

Chizuru and Karasu Tengu are making sure that their things are all here, in their bags. After all, Chizuru and the others have been here for years, so it's only natural that they have a lot of things, like clothes and weapons.

The only ones missing right now are Nagakura, the Chizuru from this time and Hijikata...because they are on patrol around the city. It's a pity that they can't be here, but in the end it's best like this...because Shiro and Chizuru don't have to keep pretending to almost ignore Hijikata until the end.

i give a bag to Mana <<here you go, I also put inside an extra change of clothes, since you'll have to come and get me before go home>> she rolls her eyes <<you're exaggerating, I'll pick you up and we'll go home...we won't make any more stops, so it'll be quick>> I shrug <<you never know what might happen, better be prepared, right?>> and I cross my arms. Shiro nods and comes closer <<she's right. Time is something unpredictable and impervious...and we are literally playing with it. It's best to be cautious and be prepared for every possibility. Also...cough!>> he suddenly stops and begins to coughs.

He immediately presses his mask on his face, probably afraid to lose it, but he continued to cough hard.

Me and Mana surround him worried <<Shiro!>> but Chizuru pushed us behind and puts a hand on Shiro's back. He looks at her and she offers him a little bottle made of glass. I didn't managed to see what's inside because the glass is black, but Shiro quickly takes it inside his hand, and hides it from us. He moves away a little his mask, exposing his mouth...and he drinks what's inside the bottle without hesitation.

He immediately stops to cough and sighs <<thanks mum>> and he covers again his entire face. Chizuru nods, but we continued to watch them curious and worried...what the hell just happened?

Kondo-san comes closer <<Yukimura-kun, Shiro-kun...what happened?>> and he looks at Shiro worried <<are you okay?>> Shiro nods and clears his throat <<you don't need to worry, it's something normal for me>> but me and Mana look at each other puzzled. Even Rikuo, who was sitting on the engawa, looks at Shiro with worry and surprise <<what do you mean?>> but Shiro sighs <<i'm sorry I kept it a secret...but I assure you it's nothing too serious>> and he pats my and Mana's shoulders.

Chizuru nods <<it was Nurarihyon himself who suggested to not say anything about it, since it's something you really don't have to worry about. Shiro occasionally gets sick, but it's always something quickly, as you've all seen>> and she looks at Shiro, who is already okay.

I widen my eyes shocked, realizing that I already saw something like this. Over the years, Shiro sometimes disappeared for a few hours...and thanks to that he was late for school or for some appointments. In the beginning we tried to ask him what was happening, but he never answered...and after sometime we stopped asking questions, accepting his odd behavior as if it was something normal. It was so long time ago that I completely forgot, and we're so used to it that we didn't noticed it anymore.

Harada crosses his arms <<if you say so, but why hide it?>> Shiro looks at his mother, and she makes a bitter smile <<it's simple, we didn't want Riko and the other children to worry...especially Mana, because when she arrived in the clan she was terrified. She was just a child, and one of the very few people she trusted in the beginning was sick...so we didn't want to scare her more. Fortunately, however...in those moments Rihan was there>> and she smiles <<he was awful, before he had children he was always out fighting or drinking. But he was really sweet with Shiro, and also with Mana. He really liked children, and when they needed him he just...appeared>> and she sighs <<when Shiro was sick, Rihan was always nearby, so in those moments he kept Mana company, distracting her>> and Karasu Tengu nods <<the Second was a careless man, but he was really good with people...especially with kids. The little ones in the clan loved him, especially Mana>> but Mana blushes <<it's not true! He was...okay, but when I grew up he was always looking for me only because he needed a babysitter for Riko, who was just a baby, and I hate children! They only cry or eat all day>> but Karasu Tengu blinks surprised <<no, it was not like that. Gotokuneko, you don't remember? In the beginning, when you arrived in the clan...you were always angry and violent. The only ones who were able to calm you down were the Second and Shiro, this is why Rihan-sama was always near you. He was worried about you, so he wanted you to be part of the family>> and he smiles <<when his daughter, the young mistress, was born, you changed completely. You started to follow Wakana-san everywhere, because you wanted to protect her and the young mistress, who was an infant. The Second saw that, so he decided to nominated you Riko-sama's bodyguard because he trusted you. So he was always searching for you only because he wanted you near his wife and child when he wasn't home. He trusted you really much>> Mana puts her hands on her face, hiding her red cheeks <<yeah, whatever>> but I smile happy <<i remember that...i used to always follow Mana when I was little, because I was curious. She was always near, but she didn't like to play. In the end, when I grew up a little she and dad taught me together how to do pranks. It was so funny! Karasu Tengu and Kubinashi were always trying to stop us, and grandpa was our partner in crime. He always helped us, and after my first successful prank he and mum prepared a huge party with the others for me>> and I look at Mana. She sighs, but in the end looks away and smile <<i also remember the time when we ran away from home after a prank, because we tried to bother Gyuki...a really stupid thing to do, he scared us to death. Rihan and Shiro were the ones who found us, and Rihan bought us a lot of candy>> Okita, who was sitting on the Engawa near Rikuo...because they are still both sick...chuckles <<it's seems that you had a lot of fun>> I laugh and nod <<you can say that, but...>> I look at Shiro <<you! From now on, if you're not feeling well you have to tell us. If even after all these years you're still sick...this mean that it's something serious>> Mana nods <<i bet it's not even a human disease, or Chizuru's medicine wouldn't have worked so fast. Now, tell us what disease it is>> but Nagakura frowns puzzled <<human disease? So you demons get sick too?>> Harada rolls his eyes <<if it wasn't like that, Shiro wouldn't be sick and we wouldn't be having this conversation>> and Inoue-san nods, agreeing with him.

Shiro nods <<yes Nagakura, we demons can have diseases that can last for many years...or centuries, thanks to the fear, and only a few can be cured. it's something that happens very rarely, but fear is such an intense power that sometimes it can give some problems even to us, who use it>> he crosses his arms and sighs <<i, of course, have one of these diseases. I was born with it, and it's not curable...but, I can control it, with my mother's help>> and he puts a hand on his chest <<it's not fatal, but I was born with two different kinds of fear in my body. I will not explain why I'm like this, but I'm okay...it's just that sometimes it weakens me>> we widen our eyes, shocked.

I frown <<wait a minute, two fears? How is that possible? You're the son of a pure demon and a human, so...>> but Chizuru interrupts me <<please Riko, this is not the time to talk about it. When you will return home we will explain, but not now>> and she smiles <<let's change the subject, Shiro...didn't you have something to give Riko before going home?>> and she chuckles.

Shiro jumps surprised and happy <<yes! Wait a moment Riko!>> and he quickly runs toward his bags. He begins to search inside his things, but I shrug and walk toward Okita and Rikuo <<speaking of it, how is your fever? Everything okay?>> Rikuo nods <<i'm okay big sister, you're worrying too much. The real problem will be when we get home...Tsurara and the others will go crazy when we tell them this story>> but Okita sighs annoyed <<you never stop complaining, do you?>> but Rikuo growls angry and looks at him <<why you...!>> but I quickly interrupt them <<please don't fight! You both still have a fever, and if you fight for every stupid fucking thing you will waste energy, and you will never recover>> and I push both away a little, and then I sit between them...dividing them. I know that it was Kondo-san the one who said to them to sit here together, probably because he wanted them to get along, but it's better that I stay here from now on.

Both looks at me and frown, but before they could talk Shiro arrives with a lot of books and notebooks in his arms. We look at his full arms shocked and astonished, what the hell?!

Shiro walks closer and forceful puts everything on my lap <<here you go>> but I quickly put everything on the ground...because of the weight.

I look at the books and the notebooks...they are so many <<Shiro, what the hell are you doing?!>> but Okita chuckles amused <<you're a scholar? I never would have said that>> I frown and look at him annoyed <<what are you implying?>> but Rikuo takes one of the book and opens it <<now I'm curious, what is...wah!>> and he quickly throws away the book, screaming with surprise and disgust <<it's a math book!>> but Shiro shakes his head annoyed, and he picks up the book <<Rikuo...i already told you that a book can't hurt you>> but I bark <<yes it can! If I throw it at you with the right force! Did you really bring me homework?! what's wrong with you?!>> Harada looks at us with curiosity <<homework?>> and he comes closer with Nagakura, who looks at the books and the notebooks with disgust. After a few seconds Nagakura takes one of the book and opens it <<it's all full with numbers and problems, why would someone do all this stuff?>> I frown <<it's a long story, but basically...they are homework I need to do because of the school>> and Mana nods, grossed out.

Kondo-san comes closer and smiles <<oh! You and Mana-san already talked about something with that name today at lunch. Karasu Tengu said that it's something really important>> I nod annoyed <<yeah, but...agh, it's not something enjoyable. Damn, I was hoping I wouldn't have to worry about it until I got home>> and I put a hand on my forehead, sighing <<but I never thought you'd bring me all this stuff, Shiro. Why did you bother? I don't need to do all of this work>> but Shiro frowns irritated <<oh? I need to remind you that as soon as you get home, in less than a week, there will be the midterm tests. If you fail, you'll have to take extra classes>> I widen my eyes, petrified <<the midterm tests?....holy shit!!>> and I cover my mouth shocked.

Karasu Tengu immediately flies toward Rikuo and puts his hands on his ears <<Riko-sama! Language! If I hear you say something like that again, I'll increase your homework by adding exercises written by me!>>i jump on my feet, shaking my head <<no please! I didn't say anything! I will not say anything else!>> but Okita and the others look at us with curiosity.

Harada crosses his arms <<why are you so scared? And what are the midterm tests?>> Nagakura nods <<yeah! I wouldn't study so much even under torture>> but Okita sighs annoyed <<yeah whatever, but before anything I'd like to know what this school is>> and everyone shut up.

Mana clears her throat and becomes really serious <<well, in short...the school is a prison. A terrible place, where children and teenagers are forced to study till exhaustion by insensitive and cruel adults! It is the most terrible torture of our time! And no one can escape!>> Inoue-san widens his eyes and turns pale <<oh, my gosh. Poor children>> and also the others were pretty shocked...except Chizuru, who was chuckling quietly.

I also look at their face and begin to laugh, but Karasu Tengu yells at Mana <<don't lie! School is not like that!>> and he flies around her. Rikuo shrugs <<well, she's not completely wrong>> and Harada looks at him shocked <<wait, it wasn't a joke?!>> but Chizuru then also starts to laugh aloud <<they are just exaggerating. In the future, every child has the right to receive an education, and for this reason the people created many structures where children can gather and study under the guidance of different teachers. These buildings are called schools, and jokingly many students see it like a prison, because they have to go there every day and study for learn many things. They have to work hard, but I assure you that it is safe and normal. Thanks to this system everyone has the same opportunities, they just have to be diligent>> I nod <<she's right. The problem is that we have to study for many years, and not everyone like it. Many also are just not good to organized their time, or just don't like to study>> and I push away the homework with my foot <<like me and Mana for example>> Rikuo chuckles and nods <<me too, the only one good at study among us is Shiro>> and Mana nods.

Kondo-san smiles happy <<so in the future everyone has the same opportunities and an education? it's wonderful. At what age do you start studying?>> Rikuo frowns <<well, in the beginning we have to go to the kindergarten...but that's not really a school like the others. You normally start there when you are four, but since everyone is still really young...you can play, draw or sleep all day. That school only teach you how to share and coexist with others people, especially with other children>> Mana nods <<me and Shiro, fortunately, were to old to go to the kindergarten with Riko, so during that time we only followed her around. Also, back then Rihan was still alive, and only a few crazy bastards were brave enough to attack his kids, so it was more easy to protect her>> Shiro nods <<so now me, Mana and Riko are going to school together, and Rikuo is in a different school with other people with his same age>> Inoue-san nods curious <<this is really interesting, but why Rikuo-kun is not in your same school?>> Shiro crosses his arms <<it's simple, he is in a different class>> I nod, concluding Shiro's explanation <<every class studies something different based on the students age, and also relying on what they studied before. A class lasts a year, and when it ends you can move forward and change class>> Mana nods <<but only if you pass the exams of course, or you are forced to repeat the year. We have more classes behind us compared to Rikuo only because we are older>> Nagakura looks at her frowning <<exams? Bah, I don't understand>> Karasu Tengu sighs <<exams are really important. They are tests done by the teachers, and if you don't study you can't pass them>> and he looks at me and Mana, but we ignored him.

I sigh and nod <<yeah, if you don't pass the exams it's mean that you are not ready for the next class, and the teachers can decide to make you repeat the year...and that mean that you have to start again the same class the next year>> Mana sighs <<it's really a pain in the ass>> but she grins and raises her hand toward me <<if only we were able to copy without being busted by the teachers>> I laugh <<wait, but we can!>> and I give her a high five.

Shiro yells at us angry <<this is not a laughing matter! If you want to stay in the human world you have to study like everyone!>> I sigh and Mana rolls her eyes annoyed, but then we both point our fingers toward him and say <<old man!>> and we laugh. I cover my mouth amused <<only adults or parents scold children about school. A normal teenager would agree with us, but you're scolding us because we don't study, so...>> Mana nods <<you're an old man, like always! Ah! You really never change>> but Shiro screams at us <<i'm not old! I only have a century more than you two...more or less>> but the others smile amused. But then I notice something <<hey! Wait a moment Shiro! I understand that Rikuo has only been here for a week, but why I am the only one with homework? it's not fair! There is also Mana. She is a student and she's been here a lot longer than us, so you have to give her homework too!>> Mana crosses her arms annoyed <<hey! Keep me out of this!>> and she points her finger toward the homework <<those are all yours, and just for the record, Shiro already gave me my part of this shit years ago. So I'm already out of this story, thank you!>> and she grins.

I look at her not surprised <<so...are you saying that you already finished your part?>> she hums <<try to guess, but I can't say the answer now because the old man is here>> but Shiro crosses his arms <<you think I'm an idiot?>> but me and Mana look at each other and grin. He quickly raise his hand <<forget it, don't answer!>> and he crosses his arms upset.

Mana shakes her head amused <<oh come on, we're only joking. I didn't finish my homework but I did something, I swear>> and she takes out a red notebook from her bag <<you can look at my notebook if you don't believe me>> and she smiles.

I roll my eyes <<really?>> but she quickly takes out also a blue notebook and throws it at me <<look at it yourself if you don't believe me>> I nod and open the notebook, seeing that inside there are many biology's notes and some exercises. I widen my eyes <<wow, you really did something>> but Okita looks inside the notebook and asks annoyed <<what the hell is written here? I can't understand anything>> I giggle and close the notebook <<don't worry, it's normal. Oh right, Mana...>> I put the notebook on my lap and clap my hands <<please let me copy your homework! I beg you! I'm not good with this subject!>> Shiro glares at me, but I ignored him and continue to look at Mana. She, in the end, laughs <<no kid, if Shiro sees that we have given the same answers we'll be in trouble>> Shiro yells furious <<i'm right here! And...!>> but I interrupt him <<please Mana! I will change some answers so it's okay!>> Rikuo and Nagakura laugh hard, but Mana sighs and nods <<gee...okay, but you have to repay me somehow. I want a cake...and a pepsi...and also some chocolate>> I frown <<i don't have money, you have to ask to Karasu Tengu>> and the little crown frown <<no, those things are not good for your health!>> but Mana grins <<you don't need money Riko, the secret sweets hidden somewhere in your room will be okay>> I put a hand on my chest shocked <<you're evil!>> but she quickly takes back her notebook <<then you don't need this>> but I stand up screaming <<deal!>> but then Shiro yells annoyed and angry <<we do not have biology in our school! I didn't put that subject in your homework!>> Karasu Tengu sighs tired and Chizuru chuckles a little.

I blink surprised <<oh! that's why I also didn't understand Mana's notes>> and also Mana nods crossing her arms <<now I understand why it was so hard to do those exercises. Well, there are so much subjects that I got a little confused, it's not a big deal...right Riko?>> I nod <<yeah, we studied so much things that is impossible to remember everything>> Shiro rolls his eyes <<i do, we went in a school with less subjects because you two are terrible! But this is crazy! This only proves that you two never pay attention in class!>> I frown <<it's not true, we are good in history, in art and also in literature>> but Rikuo shakes his head <<wait a moment! That notebook is mine!>> and Mana quickly gives it at him. Rikuo opens it and nod <<finally! The truth is that this is Kana's notebook, and i was so worried because I though that I lost it>> and he sighs relieved.

Harada and Nagakura begin to laugh, but Okita looks at me with a grin <<so...you studied for years, but you don't remember what>> I blush embarrassed <<no, I remember many things...but not everything. If I like a subject I remember it more, but if I don't like it...it's more difficult>> but Kondo-san sighs <<but it's a pity>> and Inoue-san nods <<you studied a lot, but you can't remember everything...i'm afraid that you wasted a lot of time>> but I shake my head <<it's not like that at all, the point is not that we have to remember everything. School is also a place where you can learn how to live in our society, so is not a problem if I don't remember everything because what I already learned what I need>> Mana nods <<she is right. In the future there are more rules, and humans continue to evolve their technology...so if we young demons go to school we can learn also how to live among humans without fuck everything up. So it's really important, and technically school also teach you to be a responsible adult>> and Karasu Tengu nods.

Harada crosses his arms curious <<well, if it's true then school is not so bad>> but Mana glares at him <<never say something like that in front a student who have to study for exams! Also remember that school can't do miracle. If you are a shitty person then you are and you will remain a bastard. And it's a pain in the ass if you have a person like that in class. Bullies still exist, and they are unbearable. Yeah I know, we demons are no saint, but some humans are really a piece of shit>> and she groans annoyed.

Kondo-san tried to say something more, but Chizuru says <<okay, we're ready to go>> and everyone look at her, seeing that the baggage were ready. She looks at me and Mana <<it's best if we don't wait too long>> and she walks toward Mana, taking the note from her pocket. The note I will write someday...and i wonder what it's written inside. My time with the Shinsengumi one day will be over, but will I be sad when I write that note? Or will I be happy to go home?

Will I already be alone? Or will I have time to say goodbye?

Mana takes the note and walks a little away from everyone, she opens and read it. She widens her eyes surprised <<oh>> and she eats it <<i know what I need to do>> Chizuru nods serious <<good, be careful>> but I stand up and run toward Mana.

I hug her and Shiro also walks toward us and hugs both. I smile, biting my lips <<i will miss you both>> Shiro nods <<me too, I will wait for you to come home. You two are impossible, but I can't wait to have my two baby sisters at home with me again>> I chuckle and Mana nods.

Karasu Tengu walks toward us <<okay, it's really time to go. Riko-sama, please be careful here>> I move away, breaking the hug and nod <<i will>> and I walk toward Rikuo. I help him to stand, but he quickly hugs me <<i will wait for you at home. Big sister, sorry for everything>> I caress his head <<don't be, all of this is not your fault. When you go home I want you to go to mum and grandpa, and wait for me. I will be behind you in no time, I swear it>> he nods and let me go. Shiro takes him in his arms <<are you ready?>> he nods and looks at Mana <<take care of Riko. We will wait for you at home>> Mana nods <<it's a promise>> and she takes one of the flowers in her hands.

Inoue-san kindly gives her a matchstick, and she makes the flower burn. The smoke surround her, and after a last smile she says <<it was a pleasure to meet you all>> and she disappeared.

Kondo-san smiles and answers <<the pleasure was ours!>> and Nagakura moves his hand in the air, waving <<travel safe!>> and Harada nods smiling. I sigh a little sad, whispering <<see you soon>> and I smile sad at Chizuru <<it's your turn>> she nods <<Shiro, please come closer with Rikuo>> Shiro nods and walks near her. She takes another flower <<Rikuo, since you are in your human form you have to stay in Shiro's arms. Don't move and close your eyes, we will follow the fear and take you safely home...so don't worry, okay?>> Rikuo looks at me and nod, closing his eyes.

Chizuru looks at the Shinsengumi's members and smiles sad <<thank you...I don't know what else to say. I wish i could stay here longer, but I'm just happy that I was able to see you all again>> and a single tear falls from her eyes <<the Shinsengumi is one of the best things that happened in my life, and I will always remember you all>> Harada walks toward her and ruffles her hair smiling <<no, thanks to you. This way we know that even when we will be gone you will be alright>> Nagakura nods <<yes! You didn't age but you now are also a fantastic mother! keep living your life, okay?>> and he smiles at Shiro <<you really are a lucky guy to have a mum like her>> Shiro nods <<i know, but please...stop saying that my mother is old now>> Nagakura widens his eyes and I laugh a little.

Harada chuckles amused <<sorry Shiro, what he was trying to say is that Chizuru looks like the one we know, but she really grow up...and now she is a splendid mother. We are proud of her>> Kondo-san nods <<yes, we are also happy that we had the possibility to meet you, Mana-san and also Rikuo-kun. So don't worry for Nura-san, we will take care of her>> Chizuru nods happy <<i'm certain of it>> and she bows <<thank you! For everything>> and also Karasu Tengu bows <<we leave Riko-sama in your care, thank you>> I wave my hand making a bitter smile <<i will miss you all>> and Rikuo smiles at me <<see you later big sister>> and then Chizuru burns the flower with a matchstick. The smoke surround them, and after a moment they disappeared.

a tear falls on my cheek, but I quickly wipe it away with my hand...but then Okita stands up and looks at me. Our eyes meet for a moment, but then he turns away and begins to walk toward his room. I smile and immediately follow him.