Chapter 5- Welcome

Chapter 5- Welcome

"Yuuki!" My mother's voice rang out, piercing the air and jolting me from my thoughts. Panic surged through me as I realized she was waiting for me in the parking lot. "Shit, she's going to kill me," I muttered under my breath. "You better hurry," Misaki called out, her voice a mix of frustration and concern. Without wasting another moment, I hurried towards the parking lot, my heart pounding in my chest.

I hurriedly made my way down the Engawa, my feet propelling me forward with determination. Each step echoed with a sense of urgency as I raced towards the parking lot. The Engawa stretched before me, its wooden planks passing beneath my feet in a blur. As I neared the end of the Engawa, the anticipation grew stronger. The parking lot was just ahead, beckoning me forward. I could see my mother standing there, her presence commanding and unwavering. I knew I had to reach her quickly, to face whatever awaited me.

Finally, I arrived at the parking lot, my breath coming in short gasps. My eyes met my mother's gaze and without a word was exchanged. "C'mon, get in," my mother urged in a hurried tone. "You're wearing a tailcoat," she remarked, her voice tinged with a mix of amusement and exasperation. "What's wrong with wearing a tailcoat?" I retorted in a loud voice, a hint of annoyance seeping into my tone. "You and your Dad have the same fashion sense," my mother remarked with a burst of laughter. Her amusement only served to irritate me further.

"Don't compare me to him," I huffed in anger, feeling the tension rise between us. I quickly settled into the car, eager to get away from the awkward atmosphere. "Are you driving?" I asked with a sharp expression. My mother glanced at me, her eyes narrowing slightly. "Yes, why did you ask?" she replied, her voice tinged with curiosity. I shrugged, not wanting to delve into the reasons behind my question. The engine roared to life, and we sped off, leaving behind the tense silence of the parking lot.

“Okay, so what are you going to say to the parents of Aya.” My mother asked me, with a tone that had bought concern to her face. I sighed heavily, feeling the weight of the situation resting on my shoulders. Leaning my head against the car window, I contemplated my response. "I'll figure something out," I replied, my voice laced with uncertainty. "When speaking to Mr and Mrs Masuri, I will address my concerns honestly but tactfully. I may mention that Aya is an utterly useless kid, who adds sugar to milk coffee.” I quickly responded, trying to convey my point as efficiently as possible, with a rather rhyming tone to my voice.

"Huh? What am I going to do with you?" my mother exclaimed angrily, her voice filled with frustration. I could see the disappointment in her eyes, and her patience seemed to have worn thin. Without wasting a moment, she started the car and pressed down on the accelerator, causing the vehicle to surge forward with incredible speed. The engine roared, and I felt the force of acceleration pushing me back into my seat. We were racing through the streets of Tokyo, weaving through traffic, and the scenery outside became a blur.

As the speedometer climbed higher and higher, a sense of dread began to wash over me. The streets were crowded, pedestrians and other vehicles whizzing past in a chaotic dance. The sound of car horns and sirens filled the air, adding to the tension. It felt like a death sentence, the recklessness of her actions putting both our lives and the lives of others at risk.

"Let's go," my mother said, her voice resolute as we stepped out of the car. The grand residence stood before us, its traditional architecture and imposing presence leaving me in awe. The front entrance was adorned with intricate woodwork and paper screens, and the soft glow of lanterns illuminated the surroundings. It was a washitsu, a traditional Japanese-style room, but on a scale, I had never seen before.

As we approached the entrance, I couldn't help but feel a mixture of apprehension and curiosity. This meeting with Aya's parents would determine the course of my not-so-bright future, and I knew that my actions would be scrutinized and judged, ‘but I will try to act the worst as possible to kill out this all-out knocking plan of marriage.’ I said to myself, in the creepiest way possible.

"I am Hisa Yato, the current head of the Yato family," an elderly man suddenly spoke from behind me. Startled, I turned around to see a man who appeared to be around 65 years old. His presence exuded wisdom and authority. It was then that I realized he had used a technique known as Tessenjutsu, the art of combat using a war fan.

"Allow me to guide you, Lady Yato," the old man said with a gentle expression, his voice carrying a sense of respect. But as he turned his attention to me, his tone took on a slightly eerie quality. "And Young Master Yuuki," he added in a voice that sent a chill down my spine.

I glanced at my mother, who seemed unfazed by the old man's presence. It became clear that he held a position of authority within the Yato family, and his sudden appearance was not a coincidence. My curiosity was piqued, and I decided to follow his lead, cautiously. “Can, we trust this man.” I whispered in my mother’s ears, “Shut up.” My mother replied in a low tone.

As we walked through the grand estate, the old man began sharing stories and anecdotes about the illustrious history of the Yato family. He delved into tales of their involvement in significant historical events, including the Shimabara Rebellion and their contributions during the two World Wars.

With each story, the old man painted a vivid picture of the Yato family's valour and unwavering loyalty. He spoke of their sacrifices and bravery, highlighting the pivotal roles they played in shaping Japan's history. The tales were filled with accounts of their unwavering determination and their unwavering dedication to honour and duty.

"Young Master Yuuki," he began, his eyes piercing into mine. "You have a great responsibility as a member of the Yato family. Your actions and decisions carry weight, not only for yourself but for the legacy of the Yato lineage.” The old man ended with a sudden stop. “There, they are the current heads of the Masuri family.” The old man started again, pointing towards the main building of the Masuri family.