Who would have thought things would ever turn out even remotely close to a situation like this? For Yoshiaki Sugihara it must have seemed like something of a dream. Somehow in the course of two days it seemed as though he'd taken up the role of some kind of video game protagonist. Ever since that weird fox woman appeared with what was clearly a baby in his room. The explanation was vague, but he remembered it for the most part. Not everyday a baby gave you such a message.

"Hello, my name is Fon and this is Miss Shiso Volkov. You, Yoshiaki Sugihara, have been chosen as a candidate to be the 13th boss of a powerful mafia family known as the Vongola. Of course, you may decline the position, but I urge you to take 48 hours and decide. In this time you may not tell anybody of this. Not family, not even your closest friend."

The baby spoke calmly, making the information and choice fairly clear. But that wasn't all. Apparently six others would be approached to be his "Guardians" or something like that. They'd more or less be given the same info and told not to tell anyone either. Maybe it was something like a test. Maybe not. Yoshi couldn't really be too sure.

Still, no matter how much Yoshiaki thought about it, he just couldn't wrap his head around such a sudden turn of events. Part of him was ready to jump at the chance as soon as he heard it. It was something of a dream. But then he thought about his mother and sister and whether or not they would be put in harm's way because of it. He started thinking even beyond that. Would his home as whole suffer? All of Namimori? That actually made him laugh. Worrying about people he didn't know, he didn't care about. But it wasn't those idiots. There were a few people he knew that weren't so bad. Among them, was his best friend Rei too.

Now here he was. Two days later and heading to the roof of his school to give his decision. With each step he could feel as his resolve strengthened. Of course he would do it. He couldn't pass up a once in a lifetime chance like this. He was grinning. All he'd need to do is get strong enough to protect the people he cared about. Unlike a video game his life wasn't scripted and he could handle things. Even if these so called Guardians couldn't.

He was turning the last set of steps now. He heard voices. They were muffled, hard to make out, but still oddly familiar. Was everybody already there? That baby and that fox must have given everyone an earlier meeting time. ‘What the hell?! Am I supposed to be on display or some crap?! Who invites the boss last?!’ He let out a low growl as he grabbed the handle of the door and pushed it open. The sun shined, but holding his hand over his eyes like a visor he could see more or less. He was surprised for sure at the faces he was seeing. Rei, that pretty bastard Ayumu, the sneaky ass Hisaki, that business-y guy Sanji, and those newer kids Yuki and Sachiko. He knew everyone here!

"Well, it seems we're all here. Guardians, should he accept this offer, this will be your boss." The baby spoke before Yoshiaki could verbally react leaving his following words to be only his decision. "Saying yes will lead to an exciting, but extremely dangerous life. You must be ready to get stronger, to handle anything that comes your way, to kill or be killed." The baby continued. "Now, since your Guardians have made their decisions, it is all up to you."

Maybe it was the fact that he knew everyone here. Maybe it was because he knew his answer already. It could have been any number of things, but when Fon left it to him he couldn't help but grin again. He knew his answer. "There's no way in hell I'm passing up a chance like this. I'd be crazy not to wanna give it a shot." He was serious, determined to show it too.

The baby was calm, smiling having already guessed the outcome. "I told you Miss Volkov." He said calmly as he hopped off her head. "This one is a bit different from what the Vongola has become accustomed too. You can tell by the appearance alone." He chuckled lightly, small feet carrying him across the rooftop. "With that out of the way, Now it it is time for us to move on to the first order of business. Shiso, explain what we'll be doing." He said simply.

Shiso had been looking around at all the possible candidates with a very cheerful look on her face, though she was careful not to move her head about too much since Fon was on top of it. Once he had hopped off a small hum escaped her lips as she agreed with Fon "He’s rather different. Normally the Boss would pick someone much like themselves. I guess he really is desperate enough take the risk." She was talking as if the boy wasn't there for the time being, though she had respect for the leader's choice she had yet to see if this boy was worth it. When Fon told her to explain she gave a sharp nod.

"Your objective is simple. Camping. The mafia is big into it." He smirked a little, only to give a small yip when a slipper slammed into her forehead, tossed by Yuki and prompting her to continue proper. "This will help you build trust and allow us to test you. You have the rest of the day to pack and get some rest because you won't be getting much on the trip. I suggest that you spend this time together in order to get to know those you will one day work together with. Tomorrow morning at 8 sharp we will meet at Namimori Shrine. Oh and if you happen to change your minds...?" An almost sinister grin crossed her lips, the once cheery fox women looked more like a demon "I will have to drag you there myself." All at once her face returned to normal. "Ok?~”

Yoshiaki was taken aback by the sudden change in Shiso’s demeanor. It was somewhat odd. Unsettling. More so, he’d noticed when a slipper was tossed at her. Was she connected to that girl, Yuki was it? Well, it didn’t matter right now. “Welp, might as well get started.” He said calmly as he turned to leave, stretching his arms above his head. “Good meeting everyone.” He added expecting everything to more or less fall into place without much conflict.

May 11 - The Strange Request From Two Days Ago

It was the end of the schoolday. Clubs were being let out, the week was dying down with the approaching weekend, and from the window of an empty classroom on the third floor, Ayumu Tomoe watched his peers and underclassman file out of the Namimori Highschool courtyard. Drawing his gaze back down towards the broom, he continued quietly humming to himself and sweeping up the detritus left by the hustle and bustle of students over the day.

Not long after the third verse of his work song, he heard the door knob turn and stopped, resting his hands atop the end of the broom's handle like it were the pommel of a sword as the door swung open. "Ah, I was wondering when you'd show up," the youth with the long, dark-hair and the relaxed expresison remarked, casting a sidelong glance to the two figures - a kitsune cosplayer along with someone who was either a midget or a baby. No, definitely a baby; he had a red pacifier - at the doorway of the empty classroom. "Sorry I was so hard to find, after all I do get around a lot, ha," an amused smile played at the edges of his lips, more properly seen now that he'd turned to properly address the odd duo in the doorway.

"So joking aside," Ayumu began, leaning forward and resting his chin on his knuckles. "I take it you two aren't actually from the university drama department?" he asked rhetoricallyhis expression turning from amused to bemused. "Can't say I'm too surprised; have you seen their production values?" he laughed, quieting himself after a moment or two. "But, ah, what's with the whole, uh..." his expression turned from amused to bemused as he tilted his head to the side, and made circles with his hand, "...kitsune-shota combo thing you have going on?" His eyes then narrowed, focusing intently on the fox-tailed woman. "...Wait... I swear, you look like someone I know," he commented, the image of a certain white-haired disciplinary committee usurper immediately coming to mind, "Just can't put my tongue on it..."

"Gah, forget about it," Ayumu handwaved, standing up straight and resting his broom against a desk, "Who are you two, and what do you guys need me for anyway?"

Peculiarly, the two companions shared a look and the baby of all people was the one who stepped forward to speak. "My name is Fon, and this is Shiso," he began elegantly and eloquently like a wiseman rather than a baby, "And we are here because you, Ayumu Tomoe, have been chosen as a candidate for the role of Guardian to the 13th Boss of a powerful mafia family, the Vongola. Of course, you do have the option to decline if you so choose, but I urge you to take the next 48 hours to consider the offer. However, you may not tell anyone, not even your friends or family, of what we have asked you."

With that said, the room entered a pensive silence, broken only by Ayumu's comment many long moments later. "Y'know, if it was just a question, couldn't you just, like, text me or send me and email or something?" he pointed out. "Not that this set-up you have here is bad or anything; it's very dramatically appropriate," Ayumu quickly added, turning away from the two to look out the window. "I mean look! You've got nice lighting, a sunset background with a nice view, good acoustics..." he began to turn back to the two, "Plus, you caught me at a really good time. Actually-"

They were gone.

"...Sure, I guess I'll think about it..." he mumbled, grabbing hold of the broom and continuing to sweep up what was left of this classroom's mess.

---

May 13 - Gathering of the Guardians

Two days later, and Ayumu was still thinking about it. He couldn't wrap his head around the idea that someone had selected him to join a mafia family. A mafia family that, he noted, sounded nothing like any of the mafia movies or plays he had watched or participated in, respectively. At any rate, Shiso and Fon had definitely kickstarted his growing interest and curiosity in the concept. His research didn't come up with many good leads other than some old news articles in a language he couldn't read, and pictures of clams.

Perhaps it was prank. That's what he thought before heading up the steps to the school roof, but when an increasing number of people - many of which he knew - started showing up, he began to doubt that idea. Especially considering the physical aptitude of the people he did know who had gathered. Still, he hadn't much idea what he was doing here; he was neither athletic nor particularly violent or rugged looking. It was too late for regrets though; he was here already. Besides, he could always just consider it as an expansion to his pool of potential occupations. He did, after all, look very good in a suit if he did say so himself.

It was only a while after everyone arrived that the door to the roof finally began to open once more. While the wait for the Boss was rather long considering he should have gotten the same time as everyone else, it wasn't necessarily inconveniently so. Ayumu had a few theories as to why. Maybe he was being fashionably late, or had been watching and planned to show up last; Ayumu could respect a guy who thought like that.

Naturally, he was very surprised to learn who the Boss behind that turning knob actually was: Yoshiaki Sugihara, resident delinquent gamer and occasional community service conscript. 'Hmm, perhaps I've just been revenge conscripted,' Ayumu thought before the baby mentioned that Yoshiaki had a decision of his own to make, which was apparently not the decision to kick any of them out on principle if Yoshiaki's answer was anything to go by.

'Interesting. So the Boss didn't even know he was the Boss. How very monomyth of them.' After Yoshiaki gave his answer, the two recruiters began to explain what was going to happen. Namely, camping. Ayumu was never really a fan of camping; he'd never even camped out once in his life, so this was going to be a new experience in at least two ways. Honestly, he'd been expecting something more like racketeering or some kind of other shady, backalley behaviors, so he was pleasantly surprised with the outcome. At any rate, there was one glaring detail that stood out after that explanation had been given:

The silence.

'Now we can't have that, can we?'

"Well!" Ayumu clapped his hands together as he began to make his declaration, "That seems to be the end of that. Who wants to hit up the shops and obtain goods through completely legal means?" He emphasized the last bit, because it was important. Wouldn't want some strange misunderstandings going on, after all. "I'll be heading over to the shopping center to get some stuff. Anyone who wants to join me can head over there."

-Earlier-

BANG. "Huff... Huff... Re-Rei here, I'm not too late, am I?!" The metal door to the rooftop flung open with a loud thud as the raven haired student emerged from it, taking moments to catch her breath as if she had been running a marathon the entire day. Raising her head to glance about the area, azure eyes widened upon catching certain familiar figures in sight. "Hisaki? Fugimoto? You guys're invited to that Von- whatever group too?" Maybe it was right to come here after all, the teen thought to herself, clouds of doubt being swept away after knowing there were familiar people. A bright grin made its way upon her features as Rei approached the rest.

But perhaps... having people she was familiar with to be involved in this kind of business was exactly what Rei wanted to avoid. The female delinquent was specifically concerned over the table tennis champion, Sanji. Unlike her and Hisaki, the sword wielder, she couldn't see the boy be involved in any sort of violence with how he was. There was a moment of silent glare towards the blond boy until a deep sigh broke the awkward tension. "If you're here, then that means you already made up your mind about this, huh? I won't stop you, but I'll be watching your back, ya hear me?"

Before Rei could add anything more, the door flung open once more. By instinct, her head whipped towards the direction of the door, a smirk forming upon her lips at the sight of her best pal, Yoshiaki. "Heh, who woulda known the boss role was gonna be handed over to none other than Yoshi. No objections here, I'm totally in." While Rei did feel bad for joining a new group after disbanding the last group, her 'family', the current Rei was different from the Rei from then. After that loss, the tomboy had continued her training regimen religiously day after day to strengthen herself. It was about time she proved her resolve was strong enough to protect those who she held dear.

"Glad to have you with us, Yoshi!" Rei casually rested her arm atop one of the boy's shoulder with a silly grin plastered across her face. "Mafia camping? Sounds like a challenge! So, what're you guys getting?"

"Yawn~"

Yuki couldn't stop herself from letting out such a cute tired noise as Shiso carried on explaining after she had thrown the slipper from her foot, though she had been expecting this so had gotten a spare from her locker to put on her foot. Trailing her gaze across all that were currently present at the meeting she couldn't help but notice that someone had the feeling of a killing just like what she was hiding herself, after all the last thing she wanted was for others to get freaked out by her assassin status so she would keep it hidden for the time being. Though her and Shiso did look like sisters normally, with the fox traits on one of them people could likely not be able to tell unless they picked up on her actions such as being unafraid to throw things at the silly fox...

"Anyone who wants to join me can head over there."

Now the girl had always been fast and her sister knew this very well, even more so with her her style of fighting strengthening her legs, however she had never seen the white blur move as fast as she did within that single moment. Like lightning she had dashed up and rushed to cling to Ayumu's arm before anyone else could get close to the boy. "I'll come with you." She said bluntly, as if her intentions were not made clear by the simple act of clinging to him didn't make that clear...

While she was holding onto Ayumu's arm her eyes moved over to the person that would be their future boss and then to her sister. She understood why she had been placed her as a sort of starter assignment to test out her capabilities, but her sister use to be one of the personal bodyguards to the head themselves and even without using her killing art she had remained there as the strongest among the family, in her opinion anyway... So why was she here now? She did not know but she would respect her sisters wishes, though she did not know that Shiso had picked out this assignment as a sort of 'holiday' after being hurt from before, so spending time with her cute little sister was just the type of healing she needed!

Reina Saotome, Sanji's Babysitter Bodyguard Walking Pile Driver Friend...Friend is a stretch, bursted through the door. "Punctual as usual" he sarcastically said. It seemed that everyone one was here, more a little intimidating than others, but here. Yuki, was here too Sanji knew little about her, but he was friendly with her, he waved his hand awkwardly at her and smiled, boy this was gonna be a long day.

He sucked up his gut and resumed it like any other day confidence, confidence, confidence. Sanji had a small staring competition with his 'Babysitter' (He had to say it himself he knew there's a chance it would stick) he fixed his hair assuming that was the staring but was soon told by Rei, what she thought "You watch my back pfffft I'll be taking care of you like a child just call me mother goose" he couldn't help but hold back a laugh at his own response.

Turns out everyone wasn't here.... Yoshiki just as Rei did burst through the door, "Really shows the brains behind the mafia can't even have a 'Groupchat'" he felt as if they invited Namamori' s toughest to fight too the death...Oh wait....He was here. Surprisingly Yoshiaki seemed quite determined and calm, phew Sanji could take the bullet proof vest off. "Well you seem excited, I'm not sure whether to be scared or happy, but for my healths sake, happy so nice too meet you"

As Sanji heard it was camping the excitement flew through him like a blazing fire. "Perfect we'll build fires, pitch tents, roast m-" his stomach rumbled and just like that his guardian angel kicked in Ayumu offering anyone who wanted to come to the shops could do so as they please. "If it's cool with you, mind if I join ya?" he said with a smile walking up to him.

(First impressions, gotta count for something).

The situation was clear a camping trip was evidently put in place to make sure that they got along and possibly a test of individual abilties. With that in mind Sachiko though her objectives was clear first was the retrieval of needed survival gear but just the basics. Extravagance was the enemy after all the basics was all that was needed for survival. Though with all that said and done there was still lingering doubts like who would be watching over her sister? That was her main concern her goal was accomplished she was now officially part of the Vongola family somewhat as a guardian for the new boss. Though that did not mean that everything was now going to be as others put it "sunshine and rainbows" things were still going to be a uphill battle. "Instructors I do have a quick question I would like to inquire about relocating my sister to a better location so she could get the treatment she needs."

Hisaki arrived late, very late, didn't even rush, just walked over, but he couldn't help that. He wanted to finish his meal after all, and he woke up late, but he was late anyways. Normally he was a little earlier, but nothing said waking up early in his job description. Still, the whole idea of mafia was not alien to him, weren't they something like yakuza? He's seen a bunch of them and has some idea of what he was going to deal with. Still, he was given this offer fairly randomly, and to him it felt like an opportunity for something interesting. He would never be able to expect what his future held as a result.

"Huh? Camping? We're not confusing 'mafia' with boy scouts are we?", he retorted. He arrived in time though to hear the briefing but everyone else was already there. Some faces he recognized, Reina and the 'boss', Yoshiaki, somehow that didn't sit well with him, but that might be the little rivalry they have in fighting games. Reina being here somehow made sense to him, she was strong. Then there was that kid Ayumu or something. For someone so proper he didn't expect him to get involved with 'mafia'. Then again mafia were nothing like your back alley gangs, more organized, so suddenly it felt more fitting.

"Still... That's gotta be better than chores with that old man...", he sighed. It looked like everyone was going into the shopping area to prepare... What was there to prepare? Probably food and supplies, everyone seemed to be intent on going together...

"I'll tag along, I'm headed the same way", he said. Really he just wanted to go down and get the newest issue of Jump, and maybe get some food before heading home. What kind of preparation would he need for a camp anyway...?

A rush of wind, a streak of white, and a slightly surprised "Wha-?" was the entirety of Ayumu's initial reaction to the very immediate and very animated answer of Yuki Volkov. He hadn't even managed to complete his statement before his fair-haired underclassman sprung into action. He looked down at Yuki, a smile playing at his lips. "Well I'm glad to see at least one person likes keeping me close," he joked, "But there's no need to cling to me like that, Yuki-chan. It's not like I'm going anywhere... y'know, except the shopping center, and, probably, home. Speaking of!" He raised his hand, pointer finger extended like he'd just concocted a brilliant idea, and craned his body to address the remaining members of the group. "Offers still stands."

"If it's cool with you, mind if I join ya?"

First up to bat was a young blonde dude, only a bit shorter than Ayumu himself, but not someone he was at all too familiar with. That was fine though; he didn't seem like a bad guy at any rate. The way he beared himself was rather 'un-thuggish', so to speak, and the confident, casual way of address, in a way, reminded Ayumu a bit of himself...if a bit less on the 'friendly reliable senpai' side and more on the 'super casual convenience store clerk' side of things. Or maybe 'used car salesman' would be more adequate; Ayumu would have to wait and see. "Mmm, well it was an open invitation," he said, breezy toned and not at all too concerned about much of anything, "As long as we're just talking about shopping, I don't see the harm in it." He grinned, "Plus I'm always in the market for new friends. Keeps things exciting."

"I'll tag along, I'm headed the same way"

And that made members four for this group of adventurers on their journey to spend money and go camping. Perhaps now they could star as the main characters of a cooperative first person shooter game; they even had the gender ratio right. Grinning, Ayumu directed a nod of affirmation towards the iaidoka, "Hehe, now it's really a party isn't it?" Against his better judgement, he threw his arm around his fellow upperclassman, "Always glad to have you along, my good man." He spoke those words with no hint of irony, even if popular opinion leaned more towards the negative as a result of the delinquent swordsman's less scrupulous repute.

Fortunately for Hisaki, Ayumu detached himself soon after speaking to him. "Anyway, that seems to be everyone who's coming," Ayumu remarked, "So let's make like trees, and... get out of here since we're burning daylight and I need to head home and finish up my weekend cleaning." With that command given, Ayumu strode out the door and down the stairs, but, after a few moments, leaned back through the rooftop doorway. "Ah. I forgot. See you 'round, boss," he said, faux-saluting the newly christened Vongola 13th candidate before resuming his jaunt.

---

With the discerning eyes of an experienced instructor, the Storm Arcobaleno observed the events occurring atop the school rooftop. Before him were burgeoning seeds of youth, each brimming with potential. Though he'd appeared along with the fox-tailed woman to offer these individuals their roles, and took on the primary speaking role on top of that, he couldn't take too much credit for the assembly of this roster. "You chose well, Shiso," he complimented, his usual calm smile curving just a little bit more. He chuckled, "Though as a veteran tutor, I guess that's to be expected."

As the Guardians assembled into their groups - two groups with the de-facto leaders being the two individuals whom he had seen coming from a mile away - Fon took note of the outlier who hadn't chose to join up with any of the existing parties, but rather opted to make her way towards her two tutors. Yet considering her station, Fon found it rather fitting. "Hello Kanno-san," he greeted, hopping off Shiso's shoulder to address Sachiko with a polite bow, "Is there something wrong?"

"Instructors I do have a quick question I would like to inquire about relocating my sister to a better location so she could get the treatment she needs."

Fon regarded the young girl before him with a thoughtful look. The issue regarding Sakuya Kanno was something that had come up in previous discussions, so it was only right to tell her the resulting decision. "We've made the arrangements to transfer your sister to proper medical care. Under protection of the Vongola of course," he answered, expression turning a bit more solemn, "Unfortunately, we haven't managed to do much more than get her into Namimori General considering everything that's happening overseas and the fact that you and the others aren't yet full Guardians. But you shouldn't have to worry about it; we'll do our best to make sure she's okay." He gave a reassuring smile. "Now go on. Wouldn't want you to miss out on getting to know your comrades better."

Yuki placed a hand onto her cheek when Ayumu mentioned going to the shopping center and then back to his home, which caused the sentence to play so differently within her mind. "I-I don't know if I am ready yet" She said but her rather calm and emotionless tone made it pretty unsure if she was joking about it or not, though she didn't care which way he took it as it seemed she could not push her teasing further... Peering over to the others that had decided to join them she couldn't help but take note of the others and if they held themselves with any sort of tells that would lead her to know if they, like her, may have been affiliated with the mafia.

However it seemed like her suspicions would have to be put off for the time being as Ayumu moved away to put his arms around the pair, causing her to start pushing him to hurry him along. "Ayu dont be so close to the boys, they want to do bad things to you." Looking back to the pair she motioned for them to come along as well, after all Ayumu wanted them too so they were no going to be one way or another. She knew he was pretty, and she knew of sevral fan clubs that had formed around him... All of which were CRUSHED to uh... Keep the peace.. Yeah...

----

Shiso couldn't help but chuckle at the sight of her sisters actions, the young girl who had only just recently come into the school and yet now she had adapted and for once acting normal for her age... A small frown replaced her smile as she thought about how much longer such a thing would last, yet she did not have time to think too hard on it as she was complimented which made her smile once more. "Heh, of course what else would you expect?" She puffed out her chest as her tail swayed back and forth in pride.

When Fon jumped off her shoulder she finally took notice of the girl coming up to ask them something, though it seemed like Fon had this covered as he explained what they were currently doing with Kanno's sister. Placing her arms behind her back she peered down towards the girl for a moment, giving a nod in greeting and agreeing with Fon's suggestion for her to join the others. Giving off a sigh she peered down "My choices may have been good but... I have a feeling that I am missing something. Maybe its effecting me more than I expected?" She couldn't throw it off her anxiousness, her ears and tail twitching as she stared at everyone leaving.

Sachiko Kanno

"Understood thank you honored instructors" Sachiko said with a slight bow of her head before she left to follow the rest. Her thoughts though was racing a mile a minute. Not only was her sister admitted to a hospital but there was also people watching to make she was ok this was beyond what she hoped for. For once perhaps she was going to be able to move on with her sister being cared for she was able to focus on her tasks at hand. Without really noticing a smile graced her lips things was finally looking up but one thought plagued her mind she wanted freedom from her past. Something she thought she torn at the seams separating herself from her present and past though here she was taking a plunge promising to use her past skills to get help for her sister.

No she thought to herself her choice was was a good one if she had to kill again than she would do so if it meant the safety of her sister. With that thought in mind she walked forward the group of her "peers" was meeting at the shopping district to buy the needed equipment but something told her that she might be walking into a metaphorical mine field that might end up with her being in closer contact with the odd one known as Ayumu. No matter how much thought and time she put into thinking about it she could never figure out what he gained from contact with her. "Though what would happen if he knew all along about the whole situation and used that as a way to get closer to a future peer?" She muttered to herself as finally found the group. Continuing with her thoughts though "If that is the case than his earlier attempts would make perfect sense. Either way I will need to keep my guard up more often around him just in case." She muttered to her self once more. "I hope I am not to late I had some final clarifications I needed to clear up." Sachiko said outloud as jogged lightly to the group.

As the odd squad continued on their quest for 'treasure' he decided to strike up a little convo. Hisaki nice choice. "Yo Hisaki right? Well tell me something about yourself, I'm kind of in the dark and if we're gonna be a team you're gonna need your strongest member to be your friend." As he said this he was doing keepy upies with the bats band ball, he was obviously sarcastic, but maybe he shouldn't have been some people don't take sarcasm well if he was lucky Hisaki would be fine.......

Wouldn't he.....

Maybe it was the fact that he only REALLY knew Rei and everyone else was new but, things were different. Usually it'd be Sanji being shouted over by his friends, but here with them it would be different just another guy people not, seeking his attention trying to make him laugh even if it wasn't funny. Sanji liked it

Is? Is that werid?

More or Less Yoshi was okay with the turnout. Even if Rei was the only one he really trusted. It showed too when he watched the small group form and stayed away. "More like I'm glad to have you with me. Would have sucked if I was in the mafia and my best bud was nowhere to be found." He laughed a bit before glancing towards the group. Crap, he needed a shopping bag... But... Ayumu... He wanted to stay away from him... And his questions. Why does he ask so many? What does he get out of it? He always wondered. Especially when Ayumu tried to sneak in little tidbits that he assumed the upperclassman just wanted to hold over the apparent mafia boss. Out of everyone else, he could have done without that pretty bastard.

"Still, I'm pretty interested. Camping huh? There's gotta be more to it than that." It was something of video game mentality. Somehow he felt there had to be more to it than simple bonding. "Gonna need to buy a sleeping bag. Old one's messed up to hell." He smirked and glanced at Rei. "Wanna race? Not sure how everyone else plans to do this, but the quicker we get through this shopping thing the better." Was what he said, though there was more to it than that. It was sort of a way to excuse separating himself from the group. A little competition. Out of everyone surely only Hisai would join right? Even then that wasn't a guarantee. He seemed more interested in games than anything else. But who knew how far that rivalry would spread.

Yoshiaki shook his head when he realized the somewhat competitive glare he was giving one upperclassman after enough. "Welp! I'm not waiting for you Rei! I'm gonna beat you there for sure!" He said before running off. "Usual bet! Loser's treating the winner to food and games!" He added loudly to his friend. Best to get things out of the way quickly. They had one night left. Tomorrow at 8AM The group was diving into the mafia world. Sure camping seemed like a silly start, but he was ready for this little challenge.

---

"You should relax Shiso. It will come to you. As of now, you are doing quite well in your work. You can only stand to get in your own way with such worries." Fon said simply as he watch things play out further, even offering a chuckle at the boss's actions. "He certainly is different. I'm curious as to how this'll pay out." He then spoke before turning to Shiso once more. "Shall we be off? There are still some preparations needed for this little trip." He spoke simply before leaping from the roof, heading off, assuming Shiso would folow.

Hisaki was about ready to just get going to the shops, though during that time he was approached by one of the others gathered here, what was his name again... Sanki? Sonto... Oh right, Sanji, it took him a moment. He mentally noted "One Piece" as he looked to the boy as he addressed him. More about himself? Maybe this question would have gone down better, but to Hisaki it was meaningless and idle, but he was never one to simply shut it down aggressively unless he was in that kind of atmosphere, instead...

"I'm a one thousand year old ghost who has returned from imprisonment in hell and I roam this earth in search of my captor's descendants... And you might be one of them", he announced to Sanji convincingly. How he would respond, he would enjoy it, but shortly before more dialogue could be made to possibly clear that up, Yoshiaki decided on a race.

"A race? What are you an elementary student?", though as soon as he mentioned whoever was last was going to treat everyone to food... He looked at the amount of people here... Then quickly counted up the little bits of money in his wallet... And then he was out of there and after Yoshiaki in an instant. There's no way he was going to pay up though, even if he lost.

"My my, Yuki-chan. How lewd of you," Ayumu covered his mouth with his hands, eyes widened with the same feigned shock as his tone during his initial statement. "You do know that this isn't that kind of story, right?" he said those words with a much straighter tone as he lowered his hands and cracked a cheeky grin. He didn't verbalize it, but it was comforting to know that someone cared enough to worry about him getting involved in highly unlikely erotic situations with his peers. Well, maybe not that comforting. The idea of something like that had to come from somewhere...

'...I believe that is my cue to think about... something else, anything else.'

Ayumu averted his eyes and looked to the rest of the group, now minus one Hisaki, who - in a legitimately unexpected turn of events - decided to take up Yoshiaki's challenge and race for the privilege of not being the person to pay for lunch. "Oh Yoshiaki-kun, don't you know?" Ayumu mused, crossings his arms behind his back as the dark-haired mafia boss and his fellow racers sped past the long-haired youth, "One is not a loser because they must pay for everyone. No, isn't the real loser the one who gets all dank and sweaty before a day out with their peers?" He walked continued a silent walk, pondering the philosophical implications of what he'd just said... for about a five seconds, after which he determined that buying food for seven people without a designated spending cap would be hell on his bank account, and that one may not be a loser because they must pay for everyone's meals, but rather one must pay for everyone's meals because they are the loser.

Alas, he had lost before he could even begin. They were all so very far away, and so much more athletic than he. But instead of musing upon the unfairness of life - or rather, his lack of participation in sports clubs or delinquent gangs (except this one!) - Ayumu mentally waved his concerns away in favor of the tried and true tactic of university students everywhere. That is to say, crossing the proverbial bridge when they get there. Besides, he could dance, so at least he had that going for him.

"I hope I am not to late I had some final clarifications I needed to clear up."

At the sound of a voice with just the right tinge of stoicism, Ayumu's face lit up. "Oh! I didn't expect you to come around and join Sacchin," he answered excitedly, practically a cheer actually. It was rare to see Sachiko come around to something he invited her to; normally he had to be the one to make everything run smoothly (as many lunchtime hunts could attest). At this point, he was just glad that she was breaking out of her shell, probably. Hopefully it just coincided with the mafia thing by coincidence and not by correlation; it's not like the Namimori needed more delinquents. "Actually, you're just in luck; we're down a man. But you're welcome to go race with Yoshiaki-kun if you don't wanna walk with me," he smiled softly and gestured in the appropriate direction. "But if you're gonna run off - and even if you're not - I have ask. Why join up with this mafia business?" and not when I try to introduce you to new people ;3;

Hisaki' s words shot through Sanji like a bullet he laughed but was it a lie? Nevermind. As all this thought of wondering which cemetery he'd put his grave stone because Namamori cemetery scared him way too much, the others were racing. "Cheaters!" He laughed, this was gonna be fun much like Hisaki's words, he dashed off like a bullet. What was this sensation of worries that filled Sanji' s thoughts was it the fact he wanted his friends to like him, he didn't have the athleticism for this new mafia house he belonged too?

Or was it that he had forgot his wallet at home and didn't even have enough to pay for himself. Nevertheless the race was on some more tortoise then hare *cough cough* Ayumu........ The race was on........

"You watch my back pfffft I'll be taking care of you like a child just call me mother goose" The dark haired girl stared at the blond boy once more, but this time with a mocking smirk plastered on her face. Shaking her head, a pointing finger poked at the so called 'mother goose'. "Uh huh, sure. Could ya really take care of yourself with five 'good for nothin' thugs ready to beat you up?" Reina patted his shoulder as a 'nice try' gesture as she continued, "Yeah, didn't think so."

Turning towards Yoshiaki, Reina returned the laughter with a chuckle of her own before responding with a grin, "Hah, same here. But ya know, even if I weren't in this mafia party thing, you can always count on me!" Rei treasured her bond between her friends, there would not be a moment of hesitation to spring into action if it involved the welfare of anyone she cared for. That was perhaps the reason why the tomboy would frequently get into trouble for not thinking before acting, especially in the days of her gang life.

Rei was too busy focusing her attention towards Yoshiaki to notice the split of the group, not like she would've really minded, had she noticed. But what piqued her interest was when the boy uttered the word, 'race'. "Race, huh? Sounds pretty fun, count me i-- Before she had the chance to finish her statement, Yoshiaki dashed towards the door, followed by Hisaki who was criticizing the idea but a moment ago. With a pout upon her features, Rei started to sprint along with Sanji, agreeing with his comment, "Yeah! That was such a cheap start, Yoshi!! "

Unfortunately for the female teen, she wasn't much of a speedy type despite having the strength of an angry bull. So to catch up to the two boys ahead of them, she had to use her own means to do so. At the start of the staircase, Rei kicked herself off the ground, leapt into the air, and landed halfway of the staircase with a loud thud of her feet. If she had no speed, might as well use her asset to win this silly race.

Sachiko remained quiet at that question that was not one she was expecting. She was kind of torn one these were her future comrades and as such they had right to know some of her past right? On the other hand though she barely knew these people and as such was hesitant on revealing information can could be used against her. Though as she was thinking about that one thing he said earlier caught her attention "Sacchin?" Unwillingly a blush came to her cheeks as she tried to get her emotions under control her blush only deepened. With her mind in the current state of turmoil it was in she kind of blurted out the answer to the question despite her not wanting to. "I joined to get help for my sister who was stricken ill somehow. Doesthatansweryouquestion?" Sachiko all but rushed the last part out as she hid her face to try and hide her shame of letting her emotions get the best of her.

Yuki was more than pleased that she had put that lewd idea within Ayumu's mind, and yet she could not help but wonder if his mind wet to such a place with such ease was he a pervert? "We could make it that kind of story." Though who was she to judge? She commented with all the subtly of a sledge hammer, and yet looked rather unphased by the lewd comments, seemed the implication was much more embarrassing than the act itself. Turning to look at all the guys starting to rush off because of some bet, for a moment she thought about chasing them down and leaving them in the dust to put them in their place but...

With her beloved just walking she decided she would follow after, besides she didn't bring her wallet so even if she lost someone else would have to pay... The perfect plan~ Though she did not expect the other female she didn't care other than the boy beside her giving her a nickname "Why don't I get a cute nickname? I'm her girlfriend" She questioned with a ice cold stare, aparrently making herself out to be his girl more to try and embarrassing him in front of the girl than anything, also wondering of his reaction. She give a wave to the other girl "Hello Sachiko. You have a sister too?"

-----

With a sigh Shiso peered back towards Fon jumping off the roof, and with a flick of her mist flame she covered up her fox features with clothing before following suit. "Thanks. I needed that." She commented to her fellow mentor as they both went off to make preparation.

Clearing her throat Sachiko let out a small sigh before she answered "I do a younger one at least." She said before she with yet another sigh noticed everyone else seemed to have ran off probably on that whole last one race things. To be honest Sachiko thought to herself perhaps it was better this way she was uncomfortable with speaking in front of crowds so perhaps a small group was better than everyone here at once. "So if I may ask why did you decide to accept the offer?" She asked looking at Ayumu it was a honest question to her at least he didn't seem like on that would be for this kind of work.

Ayumu Route - Resolution

Enough.

There was no need for this farce to continue. Between joining a friggin' crime syndicate, wondering about the sanctity of his bank account and figuring out how to schedule today’s responsibilities, Ayumu had enough to worry about, and he was not about to let Yuki alter his relationship status without his permission. There was a suitably dramatic time and place for something like that, and both sides always had a choice in the matter. 'Walking along the road on the way to the mall with your friends before lunch and offhandedly indicating that such a thing was fact' fulfilled neither of those two conditions. His rejection of this false reality would be swift, and it would fall on her like lightning upon the earth. "No," he stated firmly, emphasizing his point with crossed arms and a very peeved glare in Yuki's direction, "On both of those accounts."

Not at all long after that, Ayumu got his answer from a very embarrassed (though let it be said that was not something he had intended) Sachiko, but it wasn't really the answer he was looking for. "Huh..." Ayumu stopped in his tracks and looked back to Sachiko. It was just a question, an instigator of useless small talk. He hadn't really expected anything personal to come out of this. "Yeah, that's fine," he answered with an affirmative nod, "But, ah, I know you might not want to talk about it, but if you ever needed help with your sister - or anything really - you could always have asked." After all, nobody should have to be driven to use dubious agreements as compromise to get something they truly needed.

"...Though I don't think these Vongola guys'd let you out that easily anymore, so you should probably just use their offer, heh," he half-joked as he resumed walking the trail towards the runners. Listening to the short exchange behind him made him think about his own younger sister and his family situation. 'Gah... I don't need seriousness this early in the morning,' he inwardly groaned. "Oh right." Ayumu said those words like he'd forgotten something important, when all he really wanted was to take his mind off things. He looked back over his shoulder, a satisfied grin on his face, "Y'know covering up that face of yours only makes your embarrassed expression shine all the brighter."

Expecting that to be the end of any discussion, he quickened his - and by extension, the group following him's - pace. Fashionably late was fine and dandy, but at the snail's pace they were going, their lateness would be of immense inconvenience...or perhaps it would provide the runners a much needed respite by which they could gather themselves and lord over the non-runners with their significant athletic superiority, as it were. That was probably a hyperbole. Probably.

Nevertheless, Ayumu was asked a question, so he slowed his pace so as to let himself fall back in line with the two girls. "That's a good question," he remarked, unsure of what his own answer would be, "I'll think about it and get back to you in a bit."

...But the rest of the walk was filled with silence.

---

Yoshiaki Sugihara - Ready to Go
Now this was something Yoshiaki had not expected. Despite his loud mouth, it really had been more of a game his mind had isolated to him and Rei. Now, Sanji and Hisaki were in on it, Hisaki likely because of the whole ‘loser paying’ thing and Sanji for similar reasons if not his own competitive attitude. “Cheap?! HA! As if how we started matters! You’re just mad, it’s not an event you can win with that monstrous strength of…” He stopped for a moment when she jumped. Guess the other ones weren’t joining. No matter. He sighed. Rei wasn’t gonna just lose. With that, he hopped over the rail. “I’m not going down so easily!”

And so the race went on. For a while it seemed as though it would be quite close. But being that he was more of an academic or business man, Sanji began to fall a bit behind in the last leg of the race.this was still commendable given his slight disadvantage. However, with him becoming less of a worry yoshi now has to focus on Rei and Hisaki. This was tougher. Rei had managed a bit of a lead with her little jump and a few other ones along the way. He and Hisaki were more or less neck and neck. “Dammit! Get back here!” He would call out to Rei occasionally among other things. He hated losing.

At this pace he couldn't help but wonder whether the others would join. They probably could have. Although it didn't matter all that much to him anyway. And so the race went on and the destination came into view. That was when Yoshi and Hisaki really got serious with Rei. But the lead was pretty hard to close. Even as the two boys got closer, the girl wouldn't relinquish her position.

Thus, the race came to an end. Rei stood victorious, while Yoshi and Hisaki tied for second. “DAMMIT!” Yoshi shouted angrily. He accepted his defeat but he didn't like it. Soon the others would arrive.

“We’re here~”

The thing he noticed first was that pretty bastard Ayumu. He wouldn't actively call him on it, but if the guy weasels a conversation out of the mafia boss, which was highly likely, he’d definitely bring it up. “Whatever. Since apparently this was a group thing, and I can't be a very good boss if I don't hold up my own rules, Ayumu’s paying.” (“How ruthless of you” ;w;) He said visually displease with the group dynamic. Frankly he only really liked Rei. The rest, Hisaki included, were unnecessary. And even Rei could get on his nerve every once in a while. “Let's get a move on. Maybe grab a bite to eat.” He gave the order, perhaps falling into the role a bit too easily, as he slipped his hands into his pockets and begin to walk. “No weaseling out of it either pretty boy!”

With that he was on his way heading to one of the nearest stores that sold camping equipment. After that the day progressed pretty smoothly. Everybody more or less got what they wanted some spending their own, some spending Ayumu’s. Yoshi spent Ayumu’s partially out of spite for what he perceived was a loss the young man had taken on purpose, which annoyed Yoshi to no end for some reason.


Still, the time past and soon the group was eating. Yoshi was sitting down alone eating. He was annoyed. The others were more or less grouped up and engaging each other while he grumbled. And when he saw Ayumu approach him it took everything not to lose his shit. He tried to ignore the young man. He tried so hard. But it was clear the bastard wasn't going to let up.

Before Ayumu could open his mouth to say anything, Yoshi took initiative. "Alright you confusing freak of nature," he began brusquely, "Since you obviously wanna talk, I’ll talk. But this time, I'm asking the questions." Ayumu blinked, slightly taken aback by the boy's sudden declaration. Considering that a sufficient indication that he understood, Vongola XIII continued, "You're willingly using your money to pay for a bunch of people you barely know anything about. What's your game? Why the hell did you lose?" He crossed his arms and glared at the boy who was just sitting across from him and preparing to eating tuna rolls like he nothing was amiss.

Tucking a napkin into his shirt and splitting his disposable chopsticks, Ayumu picked up a roll, soaked it into soy sauce, and downed it. "Yoshiaki-kun! Is that really an appropriate way to greet your subordinates?" Ayumu asked, sounding all the world like a teacher taken aback by a petulant child, "Why not 'Hi, how's it going?' Or 'What do you want from me?' I would even accept 'Oh Ayumu you beautiful, charitable boy, let me reimburse you for generously spending your hard-earned yen on my folly - I’m feeling faint… o...h...~'" He closed his eyes, leaned back, and threw his arm across his forehead in a fake-swoon. Letting that image settle in, Ayumu reached out towards his tray of food with his left, plucked his second tuna roll, dipped it in his sauce, and dropped it into his mouth. As he chewed, he got back into a regular sitting position. "Anyway, since you asked, it's a bit embarrassing," he swallowed before taking a drink of his water, "But it seems that those two lovely ladies took me by surprise and left me in the dust."

"That’s such bullshit!" Yoshiaki exclaimed not even a moment after Ayumu gave his answer. It was like he was looking down on him and not taking his irritable interrogation seriously at all. He stood up and pressed for more information, "You were so close behind! I mean there wasn’t even a minute between their arrival and your’s. You could have done something. I know you could have, you sneaky little two-faced fuck. It's completely in your nature. especially when they aren't as well versed in the area as you. You could have that or done something else. I don't know what. But you could have!"

Ayumu imagined Yoshi slamming his hands against the table as he spoke. 'Hmm, that is very mafia boss-ish,' he thought, recalling a movie he saw way back when. 'Certainly can't imagine him in a suit with a nicely groomed little moustache, though,' he smiled a little bit at that thought. "My my, how perceptive of you! I suppose I've been caught red-handed," he replied nonchalantly, playing off his smile as something more mysterious than it actually was. He looked up at Yoshiaki, "Lean in and let me tell you a secret."

Now, a statement like that immediately caused Yoshi to become suspicious. He'd played enough games and read enough manga to see where this easily could go. Unfortunately, he wanted to know whatever it was Ayumu was about to say, so against his better judgement, he leaned forward.

"The truth is..." Ayumu whispered as he did nothing else - 'Oh thank goodness,' Yoshi thought; he really dodged a homoerotic bullet there - "...I lost on purpose."

Yoshi was struck silent as his palm met his face and slowly slid off. "I... I already told you that I... GAH! I know that already, you bastard! I want to know why."

"Well let me enlighten you then," he chirped, dabbing the soy sauce from the corner of his lips. Having just finished eating his food, he set his chopsticks down. "It's a bit of a story, so brace yourself," he warned, "Once upon a ti-"

"Get on with it."

"...Basically, though it would save me money, taking advantage of two young ladies unfamiliar with the city would be an awful display of manners and what would widely be considered a ‘dick move’. And thus, as they say, ladies first," he summarized as he interlocked his fingers, "Does that cover everything?"

"There's more to it than that."

"Well I do need to maintain my gentlemanly charms after all," he flicked his hair and rested his chin on his palm, "So I suppose you could say something there’s more to it. Oh the things I do..."

"Whatever. I still don't believe you just you just rolled over and took that," Yoshi huffed, rolling his eyes and directing his gaze off towards the others, "I mean you you didn't even really participate. So you didn't even really have to follow through with the stupid penalty.”

Ayumu laughed. "Hah! Damn, well today’s not really my day, is it? Oh well," he flicked his hand as if waving off any concern, “Anyway, Yoshiaki-kun, I’m sure you’ve got other things to do. No need to worry about little old me."

"Whatever. I wasn't worrying. I was just dumbfounded by your actions. I just can't wrap my head around all this mafia shit and all your shit is just making it-" he groaned, rubbing the bridge of his nose, "Forget it! We got what we needed. I'm going home, and I'm gonna fucking sleep."

Having said what he wanted to say, the budding mafia boss stood up, no longer paying his mist guardian to be any mind. He dumped the mess of crumbs and leftovers on his tray and tossed the tray on top of trash bin. “Wish I could say this was fun, but it was mostly kind of annoying as fuck.” He mumbled to himself as he began on his way with his things. “See you all tomorrow!” He spoke up deciding it best to give something of a farewell rather than simply leaving.

"Can you throw my trash away while you're at it?" Ayumu asked innocently, offering his empty tray.

"No!"

And with that he went home. He had to get ready and talk to his mom. This can’t go too badly right?


At least that’s what he thought. in truth he had to deal with his mom gush over the idea of him making friends and suspicious looks from his admittedly cowardly little sister as to what might be going on. He assured them and things went on and so the family discussion went until the young man found himself laying in bed awake looking up at his ceiling. He was so ready for tomorrow. At least he thought he was. He was excited and yet anxious and a mess of other things all at once. This might have been what he’d wanted all along. He just knew there had to be something special about himself. Something just always… He stopped. He needed to rest. He couldn't get into this no matter how right he was and how awesome this could be.

---

Yoshi grumbled lugging his things on his back as he and the rest of the group hiked up the trailed to the site they’d be camping at. He could understand the early start and having to reach the campsite. He could! But it seemed like the baby, who’s been sitting on his head for a while now, had actively chosen the toughest path possible with that crazy fox lady. Was this some kind of punishment? No… training was more like it.

The boy wasn't in the front. More around the middle. He glanced back and then ahead. So this was it. The true beginning. He couldn't help but wonder what this trip held in store for the group. The baby wasn't talking. Actually he seemed to be meditating or something. The fox was another story. She certainly did things at her own pace. Even he could tell she wouldn't spill the beans just yet. “God dammit…” He whispered under his breath. ”Language.” “Ah!” A yelp of pain resounded as he received a strike to head from his passenger. “You little!” Another strike stopped his disgruntled utterances. He knew this could only continue and the damn abnormal baby wouldn't stop, nor was he sure he could stop the child. He just had to deal as the hike continued.