The Wind's Breath

Disclaimer

Rikiya and Emi are my characters and I don't own YYH.

Key

'Blah' - Thoughts

"Blah" - Conversation

Blah - Writing (notes, letters, etc.)

BLAH - Point of View Change

Dictionary

Gomen nasai. - I'm sorry

Domo arigato gozaimasu, Sensei. - Thank you very much, Teacher.

Dou itashimashte. - You are welcome.

Doozo yoroshiku. - Pleased to meet you.

Watashi wa Emi desu. - I am Emi.

To hai, kyou. - And yes, today.

Konnichiwa. - Hello (or) Good afternoon.

Baa-San - Grandma

Gomen - Sorry

Honorifics

San - general suffix attached to most names

Sensei - suffix attached to a doctor or teacher's name (shows respect)

Kun - suffix that is used Only for boys

Chan - suffix used for pets, young children, girls, or for pet names

Blank - a name without the honorific means that the person being addressed isvery familiar to the person speaking. It's generally used in an intimate relationship or where there is a tight bond between family and close friends.

Only the First Day

Another new school stood before me. 'But, oh well, it's another chance for me to learn something new. It's a chance for me to meet someone that I, otherwise, wouldn't have met or see a sight that I wouldn't get to see.'

As I stood in front of the Sariyasaki High School gates, I could see several students looking at me. 'It's almost as if they don't like new comers. But, I'll make do with what ever situations I'm given. Even if they shun me and spit on me, I won't give up!'

After mentally shouting my declaration, I walked though the gates. There were some kids pointing and whispering, but I don't care. 'I'm the new kid, I'd almost be worried if some people didn't point and stuff.' Once I made it though the throng of people, I found the main office with no trouble and no one stopping me.

When I walked into the office, the secretary, a bubbly, heavy set woman, directed me to the principal's office. I approached the door, which was open, but no one was in there. I turned to ask the secretary where the principal was, but when I did I walked right into him.

"Oh, Gomen nasai!" I had No idea he was even behind me! I hope he's not mad. I don't want to make a bad impression before we even meet! What? He's laughing?

"You must be Sakura Emi. Come on in here and I'll get your schedule for you."

I nodded my head dumbly, not knowing what else to do. But, once it registered in my mind what he said, I was on my feet and standing before his desk. Then he handed me a few papers.

"These are the parent release forms, your schedule, your school identification registration, and your locker assignment and contract. You will get your gym uniform during class. Any questions?"

My head was spinning trying to take in all the information. I quickly shook my head no, hoping that I really didn't have a question.

"Alright then, you still have half an hour before class. That means you can go find your class rooms or you can try to make friends, it's your choice. But, we don't accept tardiness." With that last statement he gave a pointed look, showing that he meant business. But before I left, he gave a kind smile and said, "If you need anything don't be afraid to ask."

I then turned to exit but, stopped and faced him once again. "Domo arigato gozaimasu, Sensei."

He grinned at me and replied, "Dou itashimashte." Then I scurried out of his office. I decided to walk outside and while doing so, I was putting my papers into my bag. Unfortunately, I failed to notice the really big guy that was right in front of me and I doubt that he was paying much attention, and so we collided into each other.

"Owww, what'd I walk into this time?" I asked groggily, it's become common for me to pull clumsy acts. "Cheese and Rice, I've bumped into something and fallen twice so far, and school hasn't started yet."

I look around and I notice that I'm surrounded by a small group of people who seem to have trouble containing their laughter. The person I bumped into is still sitting on the ground rubbing the back of his head with an embarrassed blush on his cheeks. His vibrant orange hair and pale skin makes him stand out among the many Japanese students.

"Are you alright?" When I heard someone speak I was pulled out of my thoughts. "You are alright aren't you?" It was the guy I bumped into who asked the question, while his friends are Still laughing.

"Oh, yes I am. And I'm So sorry that I bumped into you. I should have been paying more attention to where I was going." I said in a hurried manner, I could feel a blush creeping up my cheeks.

"It's not big deal." He said while standing, then he offered me his hand to pull me up. Which I gladly took. "I'm Kazuma Kuwabara. Today's you're first day?"

"Doozo yoroshiku. Watashi wa Emi desu. To hai, kyou." I answered in Japanese. Every one else was speaking it, and I had Some knowledge in how to speak it. I could understand it, read, and write; I just had trouble speaking it. My American accent made it sound mashed together.

Kazuma took a step back and pointed to the group of people that was standing around us, "Emi these are my friends. This is Shuichi Minamino," He pointed to a red head with green eyes, "Yusuke Urameshi," next he threw his thumb over his shoulder indicating a dark brown haired boy with chocolate eyes, "and this is Keiko Yukimura," next he turned his hand palm up and motioned to a girl with shoulder length auburn hair and light brown eyes. After he introduced us, I bowed politely.

Shuichi then spoke up, "What classes do you have?" I quickly looked at him, then it hit me that I didn't know what my classes ever were. I hat to get out my schedule. So after I rummaged around in my bag, I finally found it and handed it to him. I noticed a small smile grace his lips. "Why Emi-San, I do believe you have the same classes as the four of us. If you don't need to go to you locker, then we could escort you to class." Monkey's he is such a gentle man. You can tell; it's all in his speech.

"No, I don't have to go to my locker. And I would appreciate an escort. I've not had a chance to find my way around the school yet." Then we all started walking to class. No one talked, but it was a peaceful silence. That is until Yusuke said that he was going to sit on the roof. Keiko nearly killed him when he said that. I guess he does that kind of thing a lot. But after Keiko grabbed his ear and started dragging him, I don't think that he had a choice in the matter.

When we walked into the class room, the teacher told the others to take a seat. But I was to remain at the front of the class. I guess he wanted to introduce me to the class once every one was there. Within just a few minutes of him asking me to stay up there, I was in fact, introduced to the class.

"Class we have a new student. Her name is Emi Sakura. Please make her feel welcome." Then he turned to me with a sickening grin on his face. "I am Iwamoto-Sensei. The rules are simple and Not to be broken. Now please introduce yourself and state an interesting fact about yourself. Then you may take any empty seat." He then started writing on the board.

I turned to face the class, and felt a nervous blush creep onto my cheeks. "Konnichiwa. Um, I'm Emi Sakura. And I moved here from America." I blurted the last part out. Oh man, was I getting nervous. Then as I was getting ready to take a seat, Kazuma called for me to sit behind him.

Kazuma and every one else helped me during first and second blocks. And I had managed to survive Iwamoto. Now we were sitting outside under a cherry blossom tree eating lunch.

"Heh, it's kind of ironic Sakura is eating under a sakura tree." Of course that came from Kazuma. He was very good at pointing out the obvious. But I guest that was obvious to everyone but me.

"What?" Obviously, I was confused. I knew he was talking about me but that's it.

Yusuke laughed then looked at me. Once he saw that I really was confused he sighed and started to explain. "Your last name is Sakura, right?" I nodded my head confirming that it was. "A cherry blossom tree is called a sakura tree here."

Then I started to laugh and I smacked my forehead with the palm of my hand. "Holy Mother of Cheese and Rice. I knew that."

After I said that, I got several odd looks. I sighed in defeat. "You know, Christianity, Jesus Christ?" I looked around and ever one was nodding. "Well some people get offended when you say Jesus Christ, so I would say Cheese and Rice. That way I don't offend anyone. Get it now?" I looked around and saw a few faces that held understanding but I think that was way over Kazuma's head.

"Hn. Baka onna."

"Aiieeeeeee." My heart was pounding. I So didn't know he was standing Right behind me. "Son of a beach ball. Don't do that to me." I placed my hand over my heart; it felt like it was going to pound out of my chest.

"Hiei." Shuichi gave a pointed glare to the now dubbed Hiei. It was the same glare that the principle gave me. One that meant 'you better behave or else'.

"Hn." That's all he said. He didn't argue or anything. He just 'hn'ed and crossed his arms. I wonder where he came from? I didn't hear him come up behind me or anything.

He like the others, looked different. He had a Japanese look to him, but the red eyes and white patch of hair looked off. He was Japanese with a cool flair! He was Coolie! He was Mag-ni-fi-cooooo! He was..."

While I was lost in my thoughts, Hiei and Kazuma had started bickering. It was different from when Kazuma and Yusuke fought though. Unlike Yusuke, Hiei only kept their fight to words, name calling. I wonder if I should try to break this up like I did with Yusuke and Kazuma. I don't know what they usually end up doing.

That's when it happened, Shuichi let out a small sigh, his shoulders slumped, and then he covered his eyes with the hand that had been propping his head up. Apparently he knew what was going to happen next. Just after he sighed, Kazuma went to strike Hiei. But Hiei was too fast and hit Kazuma-Kun before his fist got any where near its target. Kazuma when flying, but he was going to end up falling onto the side walk and knocking some one into the street.

I sprang up out of my seat and sprinted behind Kazuma to stop him before he crashed into an un-expecting pedestrian. I didn't really catch him, but I stopped him. I felt a rush of wind come up behind me and slow his body so that when he did land, I wouldn't have any problem supporting his bodyweight while he regained his footing.

After he realized that I was the one keeping him from hitting the ground, he spun around and apologized several times while rubbing his jaw. I assume that's where he was hit at, seeing as how red it's getting.

As we walked back over to the table, I could feel the air rushing around me and playing with the hem of my already short skirt. It was making my mid-back length curly blonde hair dance around my face. I completely forgot that I was at school. I forgot everything. I was free. If only I could fly, here and now, just turn into a dove.

With those thoughts coursing though my mind, I just stopped and looked towards the sky. The wind was my friend. It had been there for me though everything and now, it was there for another important milestone in my life. I was at a new school with my new friends. I let a small giggle escape my lips. My mind was lost in the clear blue sky. Oh, how badly I want to just sprout wings and fly. Here and now.

Then I nearly jumped out of my skin when Yusuke put a hand on my shoulder. "Mi-Chan, are you feeling ok?" He asked, which I don't blame him. Monkey's I must have looked pretty dumb. But he used the nickname Kazuma gave me!

I looked up at him and smiled. "Yes, Yusuke-San, I am fine. Just..." I stole one more look at the beautiful clear sky, "…dreaming." Then I started walking over to the table with him. I sat back down in my seat and stared at the sky. The wind still kept me company even when I was with the others.

However, when I returned to the table, Shuichi and Hiei were acting differently. They were trying not to show it, but they were. Yusuke, Kazuma, and Keiko didn't seem any different. I may be over reacting, but I think that they may be curious. I'll have to let Rikiya know that my power surfaced again today.

It was weird, after I came back to the table, all conversation stopped. I don't know why, but it just wasn't the same. I was getting ready to throw the rest of my lunch away when Hiei spoke up, "How did you stop the baka from falling?"

That got my attention. I assume baka meant Kazuma. So he did have some idea that I was special. "I waited until he had less momentum and stopped him. That way I wouldn't be knocked over when he landed." Every one but Shuichi and Hiei nodded their heads. It was the truth, I just omitted that the wind helped me to slow his body.

"Hn. How did you get behind him that quick?" Again Hiei asked me another question. I'll have to make a mental note of watching what I do around him.

"I used to run track in America, I was a sprinter. So, I've had to keep in shape in order to compete. Also, I noticed that Shuichi-San had remained indifferent though out the confrontation, until Kazuma-Kun backed away. Then I guessed that one of the two of you would do something drastic. So, I decided I'd try to stop it before anyone got hurt. But, I wasn't quite fast enough."

"I see. So, you read our body language in order to predict what would happen during the fight and to see when it became critical." Shuichi stated, more than making it a question. "That's very interesting that you can pick up on something so subtle."

"Oh, well I used to 'crowd watch' in America. I lived in many different places with many different people, and after a while you get to understand people though their body language." It was true. I lived with many people, in many places, many different situations, and many different outcomes. But life is a never ending story, and it is only what you make it. But thinking about my past was never something I liked to do, so I let out a sigh. I think that Yusuke picked up on my sadness.

Just as Yusuke opened his mouth to say something, the bell rang that ends lunch. So he promptly shut his mouth. Just as we were getting ready to walk back inside, I was stopped.

Some one had grabbed me from behind and put their hand over my eyes. Delayed Reaction! "Ahhhhhhh!" It took me a second to realize what actually happened. I threw the persons hand off my face, spun around, and slapped him.

"Yee-ouch! That's some way to treat your brother!" He said while rubbing his face. I just stood there shocked. He wasn't supposed to be here until after school.

"W-w-what a-are you doing h-here?" I was barely able to comprehend anything at that point in time. I had just smacked him!

"Well, I wanted to see how your first day was going? Also wanted to know if you'd like to skip and go to the arcade with me?" By this point in the conversation, he was standing next to me, using me as an arm rest.

"Just who are you?" Yusuke didn't have very much patience.

"Everyone this is my older brother Rikiya. Rikiya this is: Shuichi Minamino, Kazuma Kuwabara, Yusuke Urameshi, Keiko Yukimura, and where did Hiei disappear off to?" As I said everyone's names I pointed to them. My brother stiffened when I mentioned Yusuke's name. Something he usually wouldn't do.

"Mi-Chan, it's your first day. Don't skip on your first day; it'll only make you look bad to the teachers." Keiko always seems to be the voice of reason when it comes to school. Plus she had the big sad eyes that I couldn't resist.

"Oh, alright. But give me five minutes with my brother. Ok?" I asked, I didn't want them to be mad at me. However, I had to talk to my brother. So, my brother and I walked a short distance away from the group.

"Em, what's up?" He must have known that when I pulled him away from the group that I had something important to discuss. I usually don't hide anything that I say.

"My power surfaced again." I mumbled, I didn't want him to get mad, but he had to know. He had the Right to know.

"Damn it! Em!" He threw his hands up wildly in the air while shouting. "What the hell am I supposed to do? I've tried everything." Now he was pissed.

"I'm sorry, brother. Perhaps if I train more?" I was desperate I didn't know what to do. And I certainly didn't want him to lose his temper here.

"Train more? That won't help you! And why are you hanging out with Urameshi? He's my enemy! Did you not know that!" It's coming, unfortunately. I can feel it.

"Rikiya, Brother, I'm sorry. I will distance myself from them." Cheese and Rice, now what do I do…

"Oh, that's brilliant then they'll become suspicious. Damn, Em, can't you do anything right!" He nearly spat that out. Sometimes I wonder how pure his heart is.

"Tell me what to do and I'll do it. Because I don't know what to do."

"Oh, now you're getting an attitude? You stupid wench, how are we even related? God; my life would have been perfect if you were never born."

Those are the words that cut like a knife. Thankfully we had walked far enough away that I don't think they were able to hear most of the conversation. Then my brother just started walking away. "Wait, Rikiya. Please. I'm so sorry."

"You're sorry. I don't give a shit. Don't bother coming home. You can pick up your stuff tomorrow while I'm at work. But, I don't want to see you." Then he was gone. I was left standing there.

SHUICHI'S POV

After Mi-Chan and her brother walked away, I told the others to go on to class. I would wait up for her. When they first started talking, her brother was giving off an odd aurora. It was the same as when we were introduced. When she mentioned Yusuke, her brother visibly flinched.

I'm not sure what they needed to talk about, but as time went on, the conversation went from talking to yelling. There were several times that he acted as if he would hit her. But, thankfully, he didn't.

Just as he started stomping off, Mi-Chan called for him to stop. When she did, he turned on her. I even heard what he said to her. You could see how her entire façade dropped.

I ran up to her. "Mi-Chan, are you ok?" I didn't know what else to ask her, or what else to say. Her brother told her that he didn't want her to come home. That's not something to be taken very lightly.

"Yes, Shuichi-San, I am fine." She had already replaced her façade. If I hadn't known better, I would have never known that she was on the verge of tears.

"Shuichi-San, you should go on to class. I don't want you to get into trouble over me."

"You're not trouble, Mi-Chan. Come, let's go to the park. That way we can talk." I didn't want to send her into school like that. She didn't need to bottle her emotions up like that.

"Nonsense Shuichi-San come let's go to class. Can't start off with a bad first impression, now can I?" She had a caring smile across her face, and her eyes did not betray that emotion. She looked completely happy.

EMI'S POV

Shuichi and I walked back into class and handed out notes to the teacher. They were from the secretary. She was kind enough to give us slips of paper saying that she had to speak with us. That way neither of us would get into any trouble.

The teacher introduced me then allowed me to sit where ever I wanted. Again, Kazuma had a seat saved for me and Shuichi was already in his saved seat.

I quickly took my seat that was in the very back of the room, and pulled my supplies out. Then Keiko set a note on my desk. I opened it and it was from Shuichi. It was written in a very neat handwriting.

'Mi-Chan, I over heard most of the conversation between you and your brother. So, I am aware that you need a place to stay and some one to help you move your things. Since tomorrow is Saturday we can help you gather your things. I may know a place you can live, but until it is confirmed you may stay with me. I have not told the others what happened, and I will not tell them.

-Shuichi'

He really seems like such a gentleman. I can't stay with him. It looks like I have no choice but to distance my self from them. Jeepers Creepers; It's my first day and I've already screwed up everything. I don't think Rikiya was really mad at me, just frustrated. I'll go home tonight and I'm sure every thing will be fine. I guess I should decline Shuichi's offer.

'Shuichi-San, thank you for the offer. However, I don't think that will be necessary. I'll return home. I don't think he was serious. But thank you for you concern!

-Emi'

I then passed the note back to Keiko and she handed it to Shuichi. I watched as he read the note. And a small scowl plagued his face. He obviously didn't like my response. Keiko was looking from me to him; I guess she was trying to find out if any thing was going on between us.

After class, Shuichi pulled me aside. It was clear to me what we had to speak about. But I just plastered a false grin on my face and played dumb.

"Are you sure it's wise to return home?" He cut straight to it. There's no time for me to play dumb. Rats!

"Yes Shuichi-San. I will be fine." I watched as he gently arched one eyebrow.

"I didn't ask if you would be fine, I asked if it was wise." Quite the sly one indeed.

"I can tell that you're more worried about my health than if my decision is wise. And I can assure you that my decision is not the wisest, but it is the best one for me to choose at this moment."

Shuichi sighed in resignation. Then we walked over to the group who were all looking at us with knowing smiles. The kind of smiles that are insinuating other things of questionable actions.

The last class went by with little to no excitement. We had a pop quiz, took notes, and did class work. The pop quiz was easy; it was stuff that I had already learned. I was the second one to turn in my quiz. The whole class started staring at me when I got up to turn it in. I even heard one person say that I cheated off of Shuichi. But that wasn't possible because he was sitting behind me.

Other than that Science class went by relatively fast. School was out before I knew it and since I didn't know where my locker was I decided to ask Keiko if she would help me find my locker. After several minutes of wandering the halls, we found my locker. It was below Yusuke's locker and beside of Keiko's locker. Talk about an ironic place for my locker to be!

Keiko and I put our stuff away then headed out of the main entrance where the guys were waiting. And Hiei just happened to appear there when we walked out of the doors.

"Mi-Chan we're all going to hang out at a Baa-San's. You want to come?" Yusuke asked.

"What he means is that we're going to Master Genkai's temple, would you like to come with us?" Then the gentleman Shuichi re-asked.

"I'm sorry, but I can't. I need to go home and take care of some things. But thank you anyway!" I saw the disappointment on Shuichi's face.

I would have loved to go, but I had to figure out what to do about where I'm going to live and what to do about my power. Plus I've got to separate myself from them. "Gomen, I'll see you all Monday at school!"

With that I ran off towards the park. I knew that I had a found a small cave that was a good distance from any of the paths. Yet, it was close enough to the entrance of the park that I wouldn't get lost.

If I was going to live there, I would have to see how big it was and where the nearest water source was. 'Candles or lanterns would be needed, cook ware, a sort of bedding, food probably ramen, my clothing, personal products, and sentimental items. That'll about do it.' A smile spread across my face. The thoughts of me living my own life, without fear truly made me happy.

With a determined gleam in my eyes, I set to the task of putting together my 'home'.

(A/N)

This is a YYH fic, but I've pulled inspiration from a few other anime books.

I usually don't make the introductions so long, but the dictionary is because some people aren't well acquainted with the Japanese language and the honorifics were posted because most people don't know how they are specifically used. I will add to the honorific list and the dictionary with each new word that is used. These are also rather long chapters, so I'm not going to put out a chapter every little whip stitch. If you have any questions, flames, or you just want to review; Go ahead!

-Rahe