The dark street is silent, while the yellow petals from the flowers on the side of the road fill the air. Rikuo keeps running and laughing <<come on big sister! Catch me if you can!>> I laugh and chase after him, hearing dad says behind us <<be careful you two and don't go too far>> ending with a light chuckle.

Rikuo is six years old, he's always happy and lively and is my lovely little brother. He is shorter than me, but for his age he's tall and even though I am already twelve he reach my chest easily. Both of us have brown hair and eyes, grandpa for this always says that Rikuo is the copy of my mum, but I'm more like our grandmother.

We turn the corner and continue to chase each other, being careful not to stumble in our black kimonos. I grab Rikuo's shoulders <<i got you, little monkey!>> Rikuo laughs trying to free himself <<it's not fair!>> but then the air changes and a scary silence fall around us. A piercing scream breaks the silence, freezing the blood in our veins...and then we hear a thud. Rikuo escapes from my grip and turn running back. I scream his name <<Rikuo!>> but he doesn't hear me and turns the corner, going back to dad and that person.

I run behind him but when I reach him I stop seeing a pale little girl standing in front of a horrible and shocking scenario, with an old and bloody katana in her hand. Dad is lying on the ground, a pool of blood under him and...he isn't breathing. We tremble, without being able to move...but Rikuo with a faint whisper ask <<who are you lady?>> and the girl turns around, smiling at us with cold and empty eyes like ice. She walks toward us and we step back feeling a primordial and unknown terror gripping our guts...a fear never experienced before, the fear of dying. The little girl disappears for a moment appearing in front of us in an instant, placing her white hand on Rikuo's cheek watching us carefully with a cruel grin <<so...he has two grandchildren as well. I see, his son breeds with a human too. This unpredictable blood evaded my plans...Nurarihyon's grandchildren. But still...the fox curse will never fade and the bloodline will surely end>> she raises her sword and I quickly grab Rikuo's collar pulling him back. I push him away screaming <<Rikuo get away!>> and then I feel the blade collide and shear my back. I fall on the ground in a pool of blood feeling a blinding pain.

...

<<Riko! Riko wake up!>> I feel someone shaking me with strength and then something hits my head painful. I sit up taking my head in my hands <<ahi!>> and I see in front of my desk a girl, with black hair and light blue eyes. Oh right, I'm at school. The girl is holding a makeshift harisen and she's wearing the school uniform exactly like me, which consist in a short black skirt and a white t-shirt.

I grunt massaging my head <<why Mana? What I've done?>> she rolls her eyes <<come on, the lessons are over and we have to go home. If we arrive late again Karasu Tengu will lecture us for hours>> I put my elbows on the desk looking at her with surprise <<so right now we are still in time?>> she smiles <<of course not>> I nod holding back a laugh <<ohh, like always, but I'm glad that you wake me up>> she puts away the harisen, closing her school bag <<bad dream? Or it was the uncomfortable desk?>> I shrug <<both I think but I'm surprised that nobody came to check on us>> she nods <<i'm sure that someone is outside, let's go...>> I nod and close my school bag, putting it on my shoulder <<i'm ready>> and together we go outside closing the class door behind us. When we arrive downstairs we changed our shoes and step outside.

We see a little boy with black hair and big gray eyes waiting for us, so I go closer <<hello Kappa, Karasu Tengu sent you?>> he nods in greeting, holding his hands behind his head <<obviously, you're very late...today isn't the day where you study in the school's library>> Mana sighs <<but for sleep during math yes>> and grins looking at me. I grimaced but ignore her <<i'm sorry Kappa, but now we can go home. We got to hurry, the bus is going to arrive in a few minutes>> but he shakes his head <<if we do that we will arrive too late and more people will come looking for us>> and I hear a swish behind me. I turn around finding three familiar faces. They are two boys and a girl with black big wings on their back and antique clothes. I sigh exasperated looking at the three tengu brothers <<really?>> the girl has short brown hair and serious violet eyes covered by glasses, her name is Sasami. Kuroumaru is the older brother, with black hair and dark red eyes...the rumors said that he's the most serious between the three. Tosakamaru has blue eyes and green and yellow hair. Mana sigh <<the babysitters are here. Let me guess...you're here to take us home>> Kuroumaru nods with a serious face <<that's right. Is really dangerous for Riko-sama to stay outside so late. Please Riko-sama don't make a fuss>> Sasami looks at Mana <<oi gotokuneko, your duty is to protect the young mistress...why are you always so late to take her home?>> Mana stares at her annoyed <<oh please! Are you still worried about that mess with Zen a few days ago? Rikuo has already solved everything right? Calm down, you're only irritating>> Sasami blinks <<we are just following our father's orders>> and she spreads her wings and grab Mana flying away.

Tosakamaru comes near me <<Riko-sama, can I?>> I nod and he takes me in his arms and begin to fly, followed by Kuroumaru.

I look at the view under us thinking about my dream of early. I sigh so Mana looks at me and then transforms taking her true form. She now has two black fluffy cat ears, on her cheeks there are red marks like cat whiskers. Her hand are covered in black fur, and her nails became claws. Her palms are red and she has a long and fluffy black tail, with three red circles on the end. She squeezes her now red eyes <<spit it out, what's wrong?>> Tosakamaru asks <<it's about what happened to Zen-sama? No one would have believed that the leader of the Zen clan would have been attacked by his own servant>> Sasami nods <<Zen-sama has always supported Rikuo-sama ad his candidature as the third chief of Nura clan>> I snort <<yeah yeah I know, Rikuo that night already said that he wanted to takes grandpa place and command the clan...and it will happen, even if the clan's leaders like it or not>> Kuroumaru nods <<and you will take the place on his right side as the vice commander of our clan, exactly as your father, the second, requested years ago to support your brother>> Mana understand my problem <<hold on, Riko never transformed in her yokai form. We have to wait, if she learn to transform it's okay, but for now she can't help the clan in her condition...but this is only a fact, she is already helping us even like this>> and she smiles. I look at her in surprise <<how can you say that this is only a fact? I'm pathetic...i'm not a yokai like you all, I'm only human>> she laugh <<this doesn't change anything stupid, a human can't be in the Nura clan. Sooner or later you will be able to transform like us, you only need time...trust me>> I kick angry the air <<Rikuo transformed at nine years old for the first time! Alright, he can't transform when he wants to but...I'm already eighteen!>> Sasami sighs <<young mistress, please understand...for us demons two or three decades are like days>> Mana nods <<yes, we too took time to learn to transform in human some centuries ago>> Kuroumaru nods <<gotokuneko is right, even the supreme commander took a hundred years to put together the night parade of one hundred demons, everything needs time>> and without adding anything else we descend toward a large old japanese style house.

The garden is full of bizarre creatures...big and small, scary or cute but everyone is a demon, and now they are drinking sake throwing a party...like always. From inside the house comes out a little crow and he flies toward us, he's wearing a kimono of his size <<you're finally back! Stupid sons you're slow!>> Kuroumaru nods <<we're sorry father, now we will go back to our work, until next time Riko-sama and gotokuneko>> and they fly away. Karasu Tengu flies near our faces <<where have you been?! you're two hours late! Riko-sama I can't accept this behavior. Gotokuneko as the young mistress bodyguard you have to understand that....!>> he continues to speaks angry...so angry that he doesn't notice that me and Mana look at each other and then begin to back away.

We run away and when we arrive inside we stop and laugh. Mana sighs <<why he's always like that? How is possible that with that much stress he's not already death? That old stupid bird>> I smile <<don't bother, you know that he's a worrier. you're doing a great job, it's my fault that we arrived late>> she smiles back. We continue to walk on the engawa toward the kitchen, but then someone run in front of us. He stops and catch his breath. he's a guy with long black hair tied in a tail, on his forehead there are two white horns and his eyes are bright red. I pat his back laughing a little <<why are you in a hurry Shiro?>> he looks at us frowning <<where were you two?! I've been waiting for hours! Even my mother started to worry!>> I jump feeling guilty <<even her? I'm really sorry, I will go to her later>> he nods <<what do you have to do before that? Even Wakana-san asked for you half an hour ago>> I put a hand on my hip <<mum? I understand, we can't really wait any longer. I will only grab something to eat in the kitchen and I will go to them. For a matter of facts we have the afternoon free because tomorrow is Sunday, so we are in no hurry>> Mana nods happy <<exactly, the homework can wait until tomorrow>> I grin <<or Monday's morning, on the bus maybe?>> she gave me a high five and Shiro growls <<oi you two, I can hear you! Mana! Riko's instruction is really important, don't encourage her!>> I exchange a knowing look with Mana and we pointed our fingers at him speaking simultaneously <<mommy!>> I laugh <<you're really like a worrywart mother, the funny part is that you are...>> Mana cover her mouth <<an old man...so lame>> he became red of anger <<i'm the youngest here together with you two! I'm not old!>> Mana grins and cross her arms <<i know but you're older than us, it's a fact...old man. And for the record we're yokai, why we have to learn human lessons in that stupid school?>> Shiro shakes his head and starts walking towards the kitchen <<always the same stubborn ones, come on now...>> and we follow him.

When we arrive in the kitchen Shiro begins to cook and in ten minutes he warms up the leftover lunch. Me and Mana eat quickly and after that we follow Shiro in the center of the house, where there are the private bedrooms...the demons usually sleep together in the dorms, but me, Rikuo, mum, grandpa and other important member of the clan have private rooms. We arrive in a little garden where two women and a little old man are drinking thè sitting on the engawa. Both women are young petite girls, the first has really long brown hair tied in a tail like Shiro, but her eyes are big and brown and she wears a simple orange yukata. My mum have short brown hair like me with big happy brown eyes and she wear a yellow yukata. Grandpa is really short, with a wrinkled face and a bald head and a gentle smile on his face, he wear a brown kimono.

Shiro runs toward the woman with the orange yukata <<mother! they're back!>> and stops on her side. Mum looks at us happy <<welcome back you two, how was the school?>> and grandpa smiles and gesture to us to come closer and sit. I run in front of them, sitting on the ground <<i'm back! Today was really a boring day...and I'm sorry to make you worry Chizuru>> Shiro's mother smiles gently, putting her elbow on her double sword on her hips, tied on her obi, they are a katana and a kodachi from her family if I remember right. She chuckles <<you don't have to apologize, also because the more worried for you was Shiro>> Shiro blushes <<mum!>> and she laughs. Grandpa finishes to drink his thè <<so? Why were you late?>> I chuckle nervously <<well...i fell asleep during the last hour>> mum smiles <<oh? Math again? it's normal, it happened to me too>> Shiro sighs <<Wakana-san please...don't encourage her>> Chizuru looks at him amused <<if you frown like that you will get wrinkles like your dad>> Shiro blushes again and go away muttering something. I stand up <<Mana, I will go ahead>> she nods <<okay, I have to speak with Karasu Tengu and report to him or he will never leave us alone>> I say goodbye to the others and go away.

I go into my room, seeing immediately Rikuo and some little yokais fold up my futon to put it away. The room is big, so there is no need to put the futon away every day. On the wall there is a big wardrobe and the room is separated in a little lounge with a small black table and some cushions to sit, the rest of the room is empty with only the futon and two big cabinets that have inside different yukatas and kimonos. I look at Rikuo seeing that the futon is only half folded and the blankets are everywhere...of course he doesn't know how to fold it correctly because his room is always cleaned by Tsurara. I sigh and Rikuo turn around smiling happy <<big sister! you're back>> and left the futon, that drop on the floor opening up again making the little yokais jump aside. I smile happy to see him...after that dream I really need his smile <<i said to leave my room like I left it, why are you here?>> and gently I send away the little yokais, thanking them and giving them some candies on the table. Rikuo closes the door after them <<Mana is not here?>> I shake my head <<she has some work to do, but answer my question>> he smiles timidly <<well...can you ask Shiro and Mana to hide in the house tomorrow?>> I raise an eyebrow <<why? They will be angry...especially Shiro, you know him>> he nods and chuckles <<do you remember Kana Ienaga and my others classmate that I spoke to you about?>> I nod laughing remembering the weird school club that they made, forcing Rikuo to take part in it <<yeah, the Kiyojuji paranormal patrol, right? They are obsessed with yokais and search constantly for evidence that yokai exist>> I sit near the table laughing <<it's really hilarious thinking that if they come here there are evidence everywhere>> but Rikuo doesn't answer. I stare at him suspiciously <<Rikuo?>> he evades my eyes and I paled <<please tell me that you didn't invite them here>> he waves his arms <<they invited themselves and I couldn't say no! Please, it's only an afternoon and even the others yokai will hide!>> I slap my hand on my forehead <<ahh, we will need a miracle>> Rikuo takes my wrist with hope <<so you will help me?>> I glare at him <<i don't have a choice, but you owe me a favor>> he happy nods and hug me <<thank you big sister!>> and after that he runs away closing the door behind himself.

I change, taking off the school's uniform and wear a blue yukata with a dark green obi, and in the end I put a red haori on my shoulders for the cold. I walk in front of the mirror near the window, taking the hairbrush near it and comb my short hair, that are always wavy and unkempt. In that moment I see a shadow near the candies in the mirror, so I turn around screaming <<busted!>> and grandpa grunts annoyed <<tsk, you've gotten better>> and he sits near the table taking only two candies. I sit in front of him <<let me guess, Kejoro and mum kick you out of the kitchen again?>> he nods and lights his old pipe getting comfortable <<it's absurd! I'm the boss here and I can go wherever I want, but those two kick me out>> I giggle covering my mouth <<at lest...today there isn't Kubinashi in the kitchen. Last time I tried to take something to eat before dinner he tied me up in front the door's kitchen>> grandpa laughs <<of course, but I taught you well>> and we fell silent. I thoughtful look at him <<grandpa?>> he puffs out a cloud of smoke <<what?>> I look away putting my hands on my thighs <<according to you...how soon Rikuo will become the third? The last time he transformed he sounded like he wanted to become the commander as soon as possible>> he answers after some minutes <<Rikuo is still young, but he always had what it takes to be my successor...but you know that already, what's your true question?>> I frown <<dad said that when it will happen...i will become the vice-commander and help Rikuo with all my strength>> he smiles a little <<so? You don't want it? don't you want to be your brother's right hand and command 10.000 yokai? Do you want to live your whole life like a normal human? I have heard that you made some friends at school besides Mana and Shiro>> I shake my head <<no, this isn't the problem...you know that. I want to be helpful and take my place in the clan Nura, even after that I can still live like a human during the day at school if I want but...i'm human! I didn't transform not even once! How can I help Rikuo like this?!>> and I point to myself sad and worried. Grandpa smiles <<with that face...you look even more like your grandmother...always worried for everything>> I roll my eyes <<i'm serious grandpa>> he sighs a little happy <<me too. You're worrying too much and it's useless. You just have to remember one thing...exactly like Rikuo you're my granddaughter and...what we Nurarihyon do best?>> I half smile <<amaze people around us>> grandpa nods and stand up <<that's right, remember it>> and put a little package on the table <<happy birthday stupid granddaughter>> I widen my eyes <<my birthday is next week>> he smiles crossing his arms <<so? I can spoil a little my grandchildren if I want>> and laughs loud.

I open the package, finding a circular silver necklace with the kanji 'osore' carved on it. I look at it amazed <<grandpa it's...it's beautiful>> grandpa smiles and nod <<as you know...osore is the Nura's clan symbol. Fear...the origin of the yokai power, we have the privilege to use it because we are the Nura...only we can wear it. It's only your decision to wear it or not now because everyone can do something if they really want>> I nod and put it around my neck without hesitation <<thank you>> and then someone knock. The door opens and Tsurara, a sweet beautiful yuki-onna with big yellow eyes and long black and light blue hair enters the room <<dinner is ready>> we nod and follow her out, going into the mess hall.

The mess hall is really big...it's the bigger room in the house, but even like this some yokai have to sit outside because we are too many. Kejoro, a beautiful woman with long brown eyes and green eyes is walking in the middle of the room with food trays for everyone and in the meanwhile a demon priest, named Kurotabou is helping her.

Kubinashi, a yokai without his neck, sees me and turning around only with his head smiles and scream over the others yokais <<you better sit down and eat at soon as possible! the others are already drunk and they're really lively>> I chuckle, knowing that they will most likely drink until dawn.

I say goodbye to grandpa and go sit near Rikuo, Mana and Shiro. We chat for a while, but after some time Rikuo looks at me with urgency and I sigh looking at Mana and Shiro <<ehi guys, I have a little favor to ask you for Rikuo. Tomorrow his friends are going to come here and you have to hide with the others>> Mana and Shiro look at each other and say together <<i refuse!>> and they continue to eat. I look at Rikuo <<knew it>> Rikuo sighs sadly <<now what can i do?>> Shiro sighs <<we can turn human you know? You can say that we are your relatives or something like that>> Rikuo thinks really hard <<you're right, beside they already know Mana a little because she's always with Riko>> I nod <<yes, Shiro can be our cousin and Chizuru our aunt>> we nod happy and continue to eat surrounded by drunk and lively yokais.

...

I wake up slowly, the sun has just rise so I just stay in my comfortable futon. But after ten minutes my door's room opens with hurry and Mana, wearing a red yukata, jumps in the room closing the door behind herself <<you didn't see anything>> and she hide herself in my wardrobe. I sit up, running a hand in my hair yawning <<what the...?>> but then the door opens again. Karasu Tengu flies in the room quickly <<come out!>> I pull the cover under my chin pretending to be surprised <<o! Oi! There is something called knocking!>> Karasu Tengu stops and look at me surprised <<Riko-sama? Ah! I'm terrible sorry! I was so angry that I didn't realize where I was going>> and he bows <<so, where is she?>> I tilt my head in a fake wonder <<who?>> he flies in front of my face waving his arms around <<you know who! don't try to fool me, I know that Mana is here somewhere!>> I push him away from my face <<what did she do? it's so early, I bet that your wrong and that she's sleeping in her room with the other girls>> he glares at me <<you know really well that every Sunday morning all our soldiers have to train to keep themselves in the best shape! If the enemy attack us they have to fight! This training on Sunday is a tradition of our clan, Mana is still a young yokai, she need this training like the others that start at daybreak and end at lunch time! And after that we have to hide because Rikuo-sama's friends are coming here!>> I look around me, avoiding his gaze, but in the end I just sigh <<okay, you win...she went in the storeroom's direction>> Karasu Tengu nods crossing his arms <<i'm happy to see that you understand the importance of this. Now excuse me, I have to find also Shiro, Kubinashi, Kejoro and yuki-onna...they also escaped>> and he flies away closing the door screaming the names of the lucky guys that escaped early.

I stand up and giggle <<you can come out now>> Mana comes out <<i can't believe that a stupid lie like that worked, it's not the first time that this happen and in the storeroom now there is Sasami, she is eating her breakfast after her night patrol...if I hide in there she will sell me to her father in a second>> I nod <<you're right, if we are lucky he will find another poor fugitive and forgot about to check in the storeroom>> she nods and sit on my futon, stealing my blankets <<it's too early for training, Zen is so lucky...he can sleep as long as he wants>> I grimace <<yeah but it's because Zen is sick, it's not a good thing to envy him...i'm feeling really sorry for him>> Zen is a poisonous bird yokai, his wings have a poison so strong that make him sick...causing a short lifespan for yokai like him. I run forward and jump on her <<ehi! Give me back my blankets!>> but she chucks and take a deck of cards from her yukata's sleeve <<a round?>> I look at the colored cards <<uno?>> I grin <<you have already lost>> and we begin to play on my futon, forgetting the blankets in a corner.

Suddenly the door opens again with strength and Shiro runs inside closing it behind his back. He takes his breath and runs toward of us, taking Mana's collar and after that he jumps outside the big window with her, hiding under the engawa.

Karasu Tengu enters again screaming <<Shiro! You can't run from me forever!>> but stops when he sees that he is inside my room again <<Riko-sama!>> oh crap, he's really pissed now <<where are those two?! I know that you're hiding them here!>> I tried to answer, but he catches a card on the ground <<don't try to lie! it's obliviously that you were playing with someone a few minutes ago!>> I giggle in difficult <<what? No of course not, I was...playing alone>> he stops with a dumb face <<alone?>> I nod quickly <<y..yes, of course. The others are busy with your brilliant and special training, so I was just killing some time>> he ruffles his feathers happy with the compliments. Then Rikuo enters In the room <<what's all this noise?>> and Karasu Tengu explains the situation to him, who in the end nods <<i understand, the famous Sunday's fugitives hit again. Have you tried to search grandpa's and Chizuru's rooms?>> Karasu Tengu pause for a moment <<i would never allow myself to accuse the supreme commander of helping them...but we know very well that he would do that, even Yukimura-san in the past had hidden his son from me many times. She is really too soft, it's not a good thing to spoil him too much...but I can understand, he really looks like her late husband>> and he flew away.

I lean outside the door, checking that he really went away, but when he turns the corner near the corridor's end...many familiar people appear from the opposite corridor and they start sprint toward me. I jump aside letting Tsurara, Kejoro with Kubinashi's head in her hands, Kubinashi's body and Kappa enter the room, and then I laugh closing the door. I take a big bowl of water outside the window and put it inside, near us. Kappa jumps in the bowl splashing a little...i will clean later. I watch him happy <<early Karasu Tengu didn't say your name, are you also a fugitive now?>> he nods with a relaxed expression <<i waited the right time to escape, but now he's keeping an eye in front of my pond. Lucky that you keep a bowl of water ready for me every Sunday, thanks Riko-chan>> I nod smiling...he look like a stuffed animal now...cute <<you're welcome. it's not fair that you have to return in your pond in this situation, I'm happy to help>> he nods in thanks and takes a nap, in the meantime Shiro and Mana come back inside.

Kejoro smiles and begins to shuffle the uno's cards <<that damn bird doesn't want to give up so...who want to play?>> we nod and sit in circle beginning to play.

But in the middle of the game the bedroom's door open again and grandpa enters with an angry face <<what's going on here?!>> and we turn around with surprise. I turn pale <<grandpa! Well...you see...>> he walks in front of us <<you all are playing, skipping Karasu Tengu's special training...i can tell this by myself!>> he crosses his arms pissed <<why didn't you invited me?!>> I clap my hand in front of my face, feeling really sorry <<i'm sorry grandpa, we really couldn't get outside because Karasu Tengu is nearby...but come closer, there is room for everyone>> he sits near me snapping his tongue <<even you Rikuo! Ahh stupid grandchildren, I said to you two many times that I want to be called when you're breaking the rules...it's always so fun>> but in the end he smiles. Mana giggles <<no problem supreme commander! Here, you can finish the round in my place if you want>> and she gives her cards to him.

Grandpa widens his eyes taking the cards <<this is uno right? How is possible that you have so many cards?!>> Shiro scoffs at her <<it's simple, she takes every plus four in the discard>> but Mana throws a pillow at his face shutting him up.

We continued to play and when it was lunch time Karasu Tengu give up, letting us free.

After that we eat lunch and then I help clean up everything before Rikuo's friends arrive. I enter the kitchen with the dirty plates, but then I see mum in front of the cookers...making some delicacies for Rikuo's friends. She smiles at me <<oh sweetie, do you need something?>> I look around, seeing Kejoro in a corner with many broken plates. Kejoro looks at me with puppy eyes without saying anything.

I sigh, this is the second time this week.

I walk toward mum <<mum, why are you here?>> she smiles again and takes a plate, but it slips and fall on the ground, so Kejoro takes it and put it with the rest of the broken plates. Mum sighs <<oh dear, I'm so distracted today, but I want to make something for Rikuo and his friends>> I nod taking her shoulders <<i understand, but mum...i think it's better if Kejoro make them for now, we can go to grandpa and drink some thè, I bet that he's a little lonely now>> she chuckles <<but he disappeared again>> I sigh irritated <<again? he's probably in our neighbors house...stealing food and tobacco like always. Ehm, we can go to Chizuru instead>> and I push her outside the kitchen, winking at Kejoro.

We reach Chizuru's room, finding her and Shiro in the garden with their katana in their hands. Also Chizuru is in her demoniac form, so now her really long hair are down, reaching her knees and they're white. On her forehead there are two little white horns like Shiro and her eyes are golden. She looks at Shiro with a strict gaze <<you have to put more strength in your attack, without lose your balance...like your father taught you many years ago>> Shiro nods <<yes mother!>> and attacks with amazing speed, but Chizuru dodge it easily attacking with a quickly movement. They continue to fight for some minutes, but in the end they stop.

Mum claps her hands <<well done!>> and they finally see us. Chizuru returns human <<Wakana-san? Riko-chan?>> I wave my hand <<we arrive from the kitchen>> Chizuru smiles <<i understand, Wakana-san...please be careful with the plates next time>> mum laughs taking a seat in the garden <<i know, but I'm not breaking them on purpose, they just slip from my hands>> and they continue to chat. Shiro put his katana away...his father sword, the only thing that he has from him, it's really a master piece <<i will tell to Aotabo to go and buy new plates with Natto when I see them>> I grimace <<you're sure? I trust them but...every time they went to buy some they broke them before arriving home. Send Kurotabou or Kejoro, they can do it without problem, I'm sure>> he nods and transform in his human form. Now his eyes are violet and the horns on his forehead are gone <<it's okay like this?>> I nod <<now you have to pretend to be my cousin, remember it>> he nods <<i'm not you, so trust me>>

...

Rikuo's friends arrive in the afternoon, so the yokais hide themselves in the house. I walk toward the front door, seeing that they are looking around amazed. There are two boys, the blonde one is Jiro Shima and he has brown eyes, the other's name is Kiyotsugu Kiyojuji...he has black hair and brown eyes and he is the club's chief because he loves yokais and try to find them every day.

The girls humans are four, there is even Tsurara in her human form....so one is a yokai. Kana Ienaga is Rikuo's childhood friend, she has short brown hair and big brown eyes. Saori Maki has long yellow hair and dark eyes, she's Torii's best friend. Natsumi Torii has short green eyes tied in a tail and gray eyes.

The last girl is new and I don't know her...she has short black hair and brown eyes. Rikuo sees that I am looking at the new girl so he smiles and say <<ah big sister! she's Yura Keikan, a new classmate>> Kiyotsugu nods happy <<that's right! And she is Kiyojuji Paranormal Patrol new member! So today we are here for a new mission!>> I walk toward Yura <<nice to meet you, I'm Riko Nura...Rikuo's sister. Sorry if I ask but...your surname is Keikan right? Your from Kyoto?>> she looks at me in surprise <<yes, I'm surprise that you know my family. I'm a onmyoji from the Keikan family and I came here in Tokyo for training and destroy as many yokais as possible>> I turn pale, but Rikuo steps on my foot <<wah sister, you're so smart!>> and Tsurara playing along saying <<Rikuo-kun is right, you are really smart>> and chuckles stepping back, away from Yura.

I will kill this two idiots!

Rikuo doesn't look at me scared, he know that he's in trouble...this moron.

I put a fake smile on my face <<please come in, we are still in the entrance. Mum will lecture us if we don't welcome our guest properly, right Rikuo?>> he sweats freaking out <<y..yeah big sis...you're right. pl...please come in>> and he takes them in.

we begin to walk toward our private living room, hoping that everyone is hiding, especially the little yokais...if a onmyoji find them they will be killed in a second.

In the corridor Yura continues to look around and Kiyotsugu jumps up and down happy <<the Kiyojuji Paranormal Patrol finally is in an old and mysterious house! it's looking like at any moment a yokai can jumps out!>> ahh this is so a pain in the ass, you're surrounded by yokai in this moment idiot!

Torii asks me with curiosity <<in fact this house looks really old, a villa in an old japanese style this big is really beautiful. Did your parents restore it when they come here?>> and Shima asks <<so how old is the house?>> I smile, happy to see their curiosity <<grandpa build it when he was young with his friends, for our big family>> Yura nods <<funny...he used a very old style>> I chuckle <<at that time it wasn't so old>> Rikuo turns pale and I realize what I just said...shit!

Yura frowns <<it's 400 years old>> Rikuo says <<ah! Riko is kidding, it was only a joke...right sister?>> I nod <<of course. Rikuo, can you go and take some chips and cookies from the kitchen for our guests?>> he looks at me <<but...we don't have...>> I look at him in the eyes <<well...you know, someone owe me a favor and that someone can use his secret sweets hidden somewhere in his room>> Rikuo starts to run <<oh oh! I remember that we have some, I will go to take it!>> and he starts to run, but crash against someone that was coming from the corner.

Shiro looks at the guests <<so you are Rikuo's friends? Nice to meet you, I'm Shiro Hijikata...his cousin>> Torii and Saori blush looking at him, but Yura frowns and begin to stare at him with an intense gaze...as if she has a puzzle in front of herself, and she's trying to resolve it. Kana was the only one to act normal introducing them. Shiro looks at Yura puzzled and then looks at me, but Rikuo without letting the others see him shakes his head quickly. Shiro understands and didn't say anything, but then Mana appears. She was a little bored <<Shiro, where have you been? oh...hello>> Kana smiles <<you are Mana Nakajima right? We met a few times in the library>> Mana nods <<kana right? Ehehe...and she is?>> Yura moves in front of her and look at her face with more interest <<strange...could it be my imagination? I feel yokai's auras nearby>> Rikuo shivers, I bit my lip nervous but Mana and Shiro look at each other with a knowing look.

I take Yura shoulders and push her gently but with determination <<please please, we don't have to stay here in the hallway. This house is old, remember? Maybe it's for that that you feel something like that. Rikuo, go and take the chips and the cookies...now!>> he nods and run away, without realizing that Mana follows him...probably to steal his sweets and Shiro with Tsurara follow her to stop her.

I take Rikuo's friends in our private living room, making them sit on the tatami with some red cushions. Shima looks around a little scared <<it's a little creepy...this house looks like some really old cinema set, it feels like monsters are hidden somewhere>> but then Rikuo returns with some chips, pop corn, mochi and cookies.

Kiyotsugu smiles <<good, now we can begin. Riko-san, if you want you can participate in the club's meeting like a special guest! Also Shiro-kun and Mana-san can participate if they want>> I nod.

Kiyotsugu smiles <<now...we can have a special lesson about the difference between the yokais with our personal onmyoji Keikan-san!>> Shima looks puzzled <<are there various type of them? They are all scary monsters, I don't need to know anything else>> Yura shakes her head <<you're wrong, yokai can be divided into many different categories. Supernatural being such as ogres, tengu and kappa...beings taking the form of humans...paranormal phenomena which have taken tangible form, like the furaribi. You could say that about a third of all yokai are fire types and their goal is to be feared by humans. Among them, even more dangerous beings are beasts which have transformed into yokai! Because...most of them possess intelligence but not reason, they are extremely dangerous!>> I listen, but me and Rikuo know already everything what she is saying.

Yura continues to explain <<moved by their desires, the beast yokai will rip you in pieces and eat you! If you see one just run away>> she grimaces <<and lastly...the one who controls all these spirits is...the supreme commander of yokai...they call him Nurarihyon>> me and Rikuo freeze and Yura says <<according to hearsay...he's always been in this very town>> I bit my lip tying not to laugh...if only she know. Rikuo is really shocked but nobody notices and Kiyotsugu asks <<i didn't know that a yokai so powerful was here>> she nods with a serious face <<this is why I'm in Ukiyoe city...i will find him and defeat him! If I kill him his realm of fear will end!>> I put a hand on my forehead...this girl want to kill grandpa and destroy the clan!

I incinerate Rikuo with my gaze and he dodges my eyes as much as possible. Then Kejoro appears with some thè <<i brought some thè>> me and Rikuo freeze again...why Kejoro?!

Chizuru appears behind her with an apology gaze <<Kejoro-san please...i'm sorry Rikuo, Riko>> but Rikuo with a sprint runs toward them and taking Kejoro he run away. Chizuru bows in greeting and closes the door going away.

I bet that Kejoro wanted to look good in front of the guest...like always, although she had to remain hidden!

Kiyotsugu blushes and scream <<who were they?!>> and Shima biting his hands says <<why there are so many cute girls in this house?! Nura-kun you're so lucky!>> I chuckle awkward and Shima blushes looking at me <<ah I mean...>> but I pinch his cheek <<so also me and Mana are cute? I'm flattered but it's best for you if you look for a girl with your age>> he nods. Torii asks <<so who were they?>> and Kana says <<Rikuo-kun once said that he had some servants>> I nod <<you're right, that was Kejoro, usually she works in the kitchen>> Yura nods <<and the other girl? She seems a bit young for working already. don't tell me...underage work!>> I laugh really hard <<of course not! she's Chizuru Yukimura, Shiro's mother ahaha!>> they wined their eyes <<so young!>> and Saori curious asks <<let me guess, she had far to much fun at school and she remained pregnant at sixteen, so the father ran away. Is a classic>> I shake my head <<you watch to many films, she looks younger for her age. She loved really much her husband and they were happy, but he died>> Shima nods <<poor thing, later give her my condolences. But for having a full-grown son she's really young>> I chuckles <<if you say so>> but then the door opens and mum enters with the thè that Kejoro failed to serve. She was smiling like always <<hello, please do as if you were at home>> and she goes away. Kiyotsugu asks <<who was that?>> I smile proud <<my and Rikuo's mum, she's the best>> but they jumps shocked <<so young!>> I chuckles <<well, I was born when she was sixteen>> Saori grins <<so naughty, I bet that your dad is young like her...maybe they were in the same class!>> but Kana shuts her up <<Saori! I'm...i'm sorry Riko-san> I bit my lip, looking at my side feeling a bitter sadness <<she didn't know, you don't have to apologize. My father was killed when me and Rikuo were little>> Saori covers her mouth with sorrow eyes <<i'm an idiot, I'm really sorry>> I shake my head and stand up <<don't worry, please continue to drink your thè, I'm going to find Rikuo>> and run outside closing the door.

I run in front of the kitchen, seeing Rikuo and the others. I take Rikuo's shoulder shaking him <<oi moron! What the hell you were thinking when you invited an exorcist in our house?!>> Kubinashi comes out from his hideout nearby <<the young mistress is right, if that girl finds us out we have to eliminate her>> Rikuo almost passed out <<eliminate?! No! You can't!>> Mana sighs <<then kick her out, she's sharp...she will find us sooner or later>> Shiro nods <<she already suspected me and Mana, Rikuo...for her and our safety send her away>> Rikuo nods and run back <<i understand! But you all stay hidden!>> and he disappears behind the corner.

I sigh exasperated <<of all his classmate...why a onmyoji? I will go in the dojo now, who want to train with me?>> Chizuru smiles <<can I watch? Your my student in the end>> I nod <<of course, your advice help really much>> she winks <<i lived with the best samurais In the past>> and we go toward the dojo with Mana and Shiro.

We arrive in the dojo and we begin to spar with each others with bamboo sword, under Chizuru's strict gaze. After some time Yura suddenly enters the dojo, followed by the others humans and Rikuo...and he is sweating cold. Yura walks toward us <<this is really odd, I just feel some yokai's energy from here>> and out of the corner of my eyes I see Kubinashi and Kurotabou hiding in the ceiling, between two beams...those idiots. They lean out to see what is happening, but Yura quickly looks up and they hide again...she's really good.

Chizuru gently smiles at her <<Riko said that you are a onmyoji, it's incredible for a girl of your age>> Yura blushes a little <<thank you Yukimura-san. I disturb your training...i'm sorry>> Mana is ready to fight and Shiro is looking angry at Kurotabou and the other yokais hidden around...but for Rikuo's friend he looks like he is angry for the interruption.

Then a new person enters the dojo, surprised to find guests. Grandpa smiles <<oh? We have guests. Hello kids, I'm Riko and Rikuo's grandfather>> I freeze....shit! Why now grandpa?!

Rikuo trembles biting his nails. Grandpa takes a little bag from his kimono and offer it to them <<candies?>> he...he looks like a normal grandfather. wait...they're my candies!

Grandpa smiles <<it's so rare that my grandson invite his friends>> Yura takes a candy...without suspecting anything...the yokai that she want to kill is in front of her, but she is unable to feel his aura, grandpa is incredible.

Grandpa chuckles <<you all look like good people, please keep looking after my stupid grandchildren>> Kiyotsugu grins confidently <<don't worry, from today even Riko-san is a member of the Kiyojuji Paranormal Patrol! I'm the chief so it's my duty to watch over my subordinate>> I blink in surprise <<wait what?...Wait a moment! Since when?!>> but Kiyotsugu ignores me and continue to speak <<even Nakajima-san and Hijikata-san are new member of course! They are high students so they can participate when they can>> Shiro and Mana run away really quickly, making Chizuru laughs, but i wave my bamboo sword angry <<i'm also a high student! Why I have to participate every time?!>> Kiyotsugu chuckles <<you are Nura-kun's sister! you're brother is an important fellow and now you are too!>> and he begins to laugh. I tried to respond...but it was useless. I whisper to Rikuo <<now I understand why you said that it's impossible to say no to him>> Rikuo nods sighing <<when I said that they invited themselves...I wasn't kidding>>

...

after a few hours Rikuo's friends went home.

The sun had just set and the dark sky is slightly cloudy. Rikuo sitting next to me on the engawa is sipping a cup of thè <<in the end...it went well>> I nod drinking my thè <<but you have to be more careful, it's a good thing to have human friends, I also have some...but you today put our family and that little girl in danger. An onmyoji is not something to joke about. No one can beat grandpa, the great lord of yokais...but compared to him we are helpless>> he nods thoughtful <<you're right but...Yura doesn't look evil. I wonder why she didn't react in front of grandpa>> I smile <<i ask him about that early, do you want to guess his answer?>> he chuckles <<because he is Nurarihyon>> I nod happily <<Nurarihyon is a special yokai, he can enter in people house without be seen and steal food. He steals always from our neighbor but they didn't catch him...not even once. He can hide his presence in front of a onmyoji, he also told me that once he entered the onmyoji's most important house and stole tobacco>> Rikuo widens his eyes <<what?! Really? Ah, a normal yokai tremble if he meets a onmyoji, but grandpa stole from their food storage>> we laugh happy, listening to the noise inside the house, the yokai are throwing a party again.

Then a little gray mouse in a kimono appear in the garden and walks in front of us bowing. We look at him in surprise and I ask <<who are you? I've never seen you around here, are you a yokai from the city?>> he nods <<you are the young master and the young mistress, right? I am grateful that you are giving me some of your time. I'm an emissary from the Kyuso clan>> I jump up <<from Kyuso clan?!>> Rikuo looks at me curious <<who are they?>> I sigh putting my hands on my hips <<come on Rikuo, you don't know something like that? They are a clan made of rat demons, some time ago they were part of the Nura clan, but grandpa expelled them because they began to attack humans, especially their boss. So, why the leader from an exiled clan send an emissary?>> the mouse nods <<what you said it's correct, but in this moment our clan is divided...our leader is an evil yokai so me and others ran away, now we live in the 15 district. The truth is...i saw it happen! Your friends who were here this afternoon...miss Keikan Yura and miss Ienaga Kana have been kidnapped! And the responsible is the leader of the Kyuso clan>> we freeze in shock.

Rikuo takes my wrist <<lead the way!>> and he begins to run, dragging me behind him. I plant my foot <<wait a moment Rikuo! What...what can we do alone? We need to tell the others first>> he turn around and looks at me, but his innocent eyes now are different...they are a concentrate of anger, confidence and courage <<don't you remember what happened three years ago with Gagoze?! If we tell the others they will try to stop us because we want to save two humans!>> the little mouse nods <<i'm sorry but Rikuo-sama is right, yokai don't save humans...only the commander can order something like that. I'm sure that someone will follow you anyway, but they will end hurt or worse in the fight because they would be to few>> I'm sure that Mana, Shiro, Tsurara and some others will follow us if we ask but...i can't put them in danger like this. Rikuo looks at me with a serious gaze and tightens his grip on my wrist <<i need you...please. I'm also sure that no one want to save a onmyoji>> I nod <<let me take my sword>> he nods letting me go, so I run in the dojo taking my katana near the entrance. The sword sheath is black and the handle is red. I tie it on my obi and with Rikuo we run away...outside the safe walls of house Nura.

...

After a long run we stop in a shopping street, in front of a host club. The little mouse left us early, because for him is really dangerous to stay here, so he pointed to this building before disappear. Rikuo grimaces <<it's a club for adults...are we sure that is the right place?>> I nod <<it makes sense, our soldiers don't patrol very much place like this because there are to many humans>> Rikuo nods <<okay so...how do we get in?>> but then I hear a noise and taking my sword I push Rikuo behind me. I parry the attack from a rat demon, big like a human but with the head like a rat and long and big claws. I tight my hand on the handle of my katana counting the enemy around us...they are six and we are surrounded.

I snap my tongue whispering <<Rikuo, I think...that we made a terrible mistake coming here alone. We're not gonna make it>> he grits hit teeth <<Riko...i will surrender myself and maybe they will let you go>> I quickly shake my head <<don't you dare...i will not run away without you. I'm going to protect you!>> he takes my sleeve <<please Riko...don't be stupid>> one of the yokai step forward and we step back. Rikuo trembles <<i can't bear the idea that you sacrifice yourself for me...not again. I want to protect you too!>> I feel a little happy to hear that but...i look at him hiding my tension and my fear with a little smile <<Rikuo, do you remember the big scar on my back? It's a proof that I will protect you forever. I'm your big sister, if they want to hurt you they have to kill me first>> and the yokais attack together.

I parry the first two attack, but I feel their claws scratch my cheek, my arms, my legs tearing my yukata in those places. My blood starts to flow, staining the fabric...but I stay in my place, preventing them from hurting Rikuo.

Rikuo screams my name, but I ignored him and raising my sword I attack the nearest enemy. The blade cut away his head in a second. The blood splatter everywhere, even in my face, but the comrades of the death yokai used that second when my sword was up for pass me and take Rikuo.

I stop immediately, with the katana still raised near the body without head...that falls with a thud. The yokai who got Rikuo points his claws on his neck, holding his collar for not letting him escape <<drop the sword or he's death>> Rikuo tried to shake his head <<no big sister! don't do it!>> I tremble with rage and fear, but I drop the sword holding up my hands.

The sword falls on the ground, making a dull noise.

...

They throw us on the ground, taking our breath away painfully. Our new scratches and bruises on our bodies burns even more. The local's floor is cold, but the yellow light in the big room makes everything more scary. We gasp in pain, but Rikuo with difficult stands up and staggers toward me. With his help I too get back to my feet <<where are we?>> but then a different type of light turns on and in the end of the room we see a big cage covered with a green cloth and in front of it there is a man sitting on a gold couch. The man have long blonde hair and dark red eyes...he looks like a human host but there is not doubt that he is a demon.

The man smiles arrogant <<it's a pleasure to finally meet you two, I am the Kyuso clan's chief, also my name is Kyuso>> I struggle to stand up <<w..what do you want from us? Why did you lure us into a trap?>> Rikuo trembles in rage <<if you just wanted to talk to us, you could have just asked! You have no right to pull in the middle of it my friends and hurt my sister!>> Kyuso grins <<talk...don't make me laugh. I told my men not be rough with you two, but I see that it was not possible. Woman, even if you are a human I'm happy to see that you're not afraid to get your hands dirty>> I growl at him <<as long as you threat the lives of my friends or my family...i'm ready to kill everyone on my or Rikuo way!>> he chuckles <<you have some temper, it's a good thing in a woman and you're a Nura, a spicy combination. Well, let's get to it...even if you are humans you are still the self-proclaimed third and his beautiful vice-commander>> Rikuo takes a step forward <<give my friends back!>> but Kyuso ignores him <<the Nura clan no longer has the power to fulfill our ambitions. The age of honor and justice have long since passed, do you understand?>> and the green cloth disappears, letting us see Kana and Yura passed out in the cage.

Rikuo begins to run toward them, but they quickly hit him brutally with a kick sending him to the ground, crushing him by putting a foot on his back making him groan in pain. I charge screaming angry, punching the bastard that hurt Rikuo. The rat jumps back, putting his hands around his broken nose, but before I can do anything else, an iron grip grabs me by the hair, scratching the back of my neck. I scream and squirm, but Kyuso pulls me against his body, squeezing his arm around me blocking my arms and lifting me off the ground. I shiver in disgust feeling his breath against my neck <<now listen very careful, brats, miserable yokai like those in the Nura clan will not be able to survive into the new era for us true monsters>> he looks at Rikuo <<I want you to send a message where you will declare that you won't inherit the third commander position, also that your sister will not neither in your place and that she will not become the vice-commander of the Nura clan. Do this...and you can have your friends and your beloved sister back. Do it before dawn or they will die>> I try to bite him and free myself kicking him with all my strength without success <<no Rikuo! don't do it! Gh!>> Kyuso pulls my hair harder. Rikuo looks at me helpless <<if...if I do that...will you keep your word?>> Kyuso chuckles <<of course, go now or I might decide to kill one of them for fun>> Rikuo stands up and looks at me in the eyes <<wait for me>> and turning around he goes away.

As soon as the doors closes behind Rikuo, Kyuso throws me harsh on the ground and i hit my head real hard.

I begin to see black spots but I hear clearly their laugh, but I ignored them and slowly get up, holding my aching head. I feel wet on my hand and when I move it away from my head I see blood. Kyuso laughs loud <<you're so weak! You are really only a pathetic human if that's all it takes for make you bleed ahahah! Well...i think that I will eat one of the girls in the cage, as long as there is one alive that Rikuo will make everything I will tell him>> I stand up gritting my teeth, feeling my necklace on my neck.

What is this sensation? My blood...is hot <<you...fucking bastard. you're right, I'm human but there is one thing that you're forgetting...even like this I'm...i'm still Nurarihyon's granddaughter! My body is weak but my soul...is the soul of a yokai!>> they freeze in shock and I chuckles spitting blood <<you are only a rotten stupid rat that kidnap girls because...you're only a coward>>

my...my blood is almost as if it is boiling in my veins. Since when I am so cocky? I want...to fight.

The slap was so strong that it bent my head sending me back to the ground. I feel the blood fill my mouth and as a reflex I spat it out, closing my eyes. The fire in me stops and the first kick in my side left me breathless.

He continued to kick me in the abdomen and the pain was so intense that for a moment I lost consciousness, but he continued.

I don't know how much time passed, but the only thing that I'm able to feel is the pain of my broken ribs every time I breath.

Kyuso stops and kneel down, taking my wrist near his face <<let's see if you will have that big mouth after this>> and he stands up, for kick my arm on the elbow breaking my arm in half. I scream in agony seeing only red and black for a minute and Kyuso laughs <<stupid bitch, this isn't over!>> but a man put a hand on Kyuso shoulder <<easy there...remember our deal>> Kyuso snaps his tongue angry <<Hisao...bastard...>> but left me alone and after that I manage to see the man named Hisao in the face. He is tall, with a white skin like snow...but on his cheeks there are blue scales. His snake eyes are yellow and his long hair are green. He grins happy, leaning towards me holding his hands in the sleeves of his blue kimono <<you sure had a good time beating her, but we need her alive>> and humming a disturbing tune he snaps his fingers <<now...i need to keep my part in the deal with that person but...>> he grins <<i will not do it...my friend paid more, so sleep well princess...>> and from his sleeve he takes a bizarre little white jar, which produces smoke. He brings it closer to me <<this is one of the last doses, but if we can get rid of such nuisance I would say that it is well used>> I try not to breath, but the pain in my ribs is so painfully that in the end I breath it...and everything becomes dark.

...

Cold...i wake up slowly opening my eyes seeing the dark sky. Is snowing...so pretty but...where I am?

The pain is still here and I can't move because of it. I try at least to move my legs, but then I hear someone running nearby. A tiny figure enters the alley and then she hides behind some nearby barrels. She's so terrified that she hasn't notice me yet behind her in the middle of the dark alley.

I try to see her better and when I focus on her face my heart skips <<Chizur...coff! Coff!>> Chizuru jumps scared and turns around. She widens her eyes and trembles, but then she looks in the next street with caution and quickly crawls next to me. She grabs me by the shoulders and with difficulty hides me with her behind the barrels.

I groan from the pain but she looks at me whispering <<shh! If they find us they will kill us! I know that you're in a great pain and I promise that if we survive I will help you>> she...she doesn't recognize me? what's happening?! She looks a little different, but she is Chizuru, I'm certain!

I hear some men's angry voices nearby, so I sit up with her help, with my back on the wall. The moonlight shines upon three men, dressed like old samurai...actually, everything around here look ancient. They begin to scream with anger searching a kid who ran away from them...Chizuru perhaps?

Chizuru trembles and put her hand on his kodachi handle but...where is her katana? She steps back a little, but her foot brushes again my broke arm. I gasp in pain and Chizuru quickly jumps back whispering an apology, but the men begin to walk toward our hiding place. My sigh begins blurry and my mind start to spin really quickly, but then I hear clearly a terrifying scream followed by the men's cries of pain. I look up with all my strength seeing two monsters with long white hair and red eyes drinking the men's blood. Chizuru puts her hands on her mouth in shock for stop her whimpers, but the monsters hear her and begins to step toward our direction. I try to stay awake and move ignoring my pain, but when the monster found us a sword pierce him from behind killing him. There is a man in front of us now...with a blue and white haori ...but then I lost consciousness.