Disclaimers: I do not own any of the anime mentioned. The several series belong to their rightful owner(s) and creator(s). Enjoy the story!! =0)
Dedications: To Usa-oneesan, her oneesan Eternal SailorM, my new oneesan, Himi-oneesan, D-chan, and Chibi Tenshi.*grins*
******************************
The Man Behind the Gun
Chapter 1 - Who Am I?
Author: Krys Yuy
******************************
War.
It was the only thing that existed in the person's mind. Death and destruction permeated the air, making you want to close off your own oxygen supply. Scenes of blood, shed for no reason at all, replayed themselves again and again. Distinct images of gory corpses and battered bodies of soldiers were there wherever you looked. A sense of foreboding was in the atmosphere, as if indicating the termination of all living beings that hadn't already died. Screams of agony and sobs of grief accompanied the many visions of extinction. Barely a minute of this could make one lose all sanity.
Yet, the person who's mind was filled with all this was alive and well. Living each day with an empty soul. Impassive expressions was all that was shown when any man, woman, or child died by his hands, either on purpose or accident. Never flinching when his finger pulled the trigger and let a death sentence fly to the unsuspecting victim. Calm exposure on the outside, never faltering when duty called. Never letting his conscience get in the way of the purpose of his living.
This person was a machine. Following instructions and orders given by another, he carries them out with no question. No disobedience ever wavered from his form. One would see him as a person who could think for himself, which was true, yet at the same time, wasn't. He could come up with a battle plan in no less than a few hours. Decide what he wanted to wear or do for the day. However, with a direct order given by one of his superior officers, he would drop whatever he was doing and follow that command.
* * * * *
Destiny.
It was the only thing that existed in the person's mind. Events of a time long forgotten replay themselves to someone who was forced to see it all. To see the first life lived and the annihilation of a kingdom which ruled the universe. The enemies that came and conquered a peaceful time returned. In the end, they were defeated, but more came. More challenged the keeper of an ancient artifact with no success. They were destroyed again and again by the power of a unique person. There were so many images, so many memories. They were viewed in a never-ending circle of pain and joy.
Too early had this person been awakened. Too soon to be weighed down with the responsibilities of a warrior. With smiles and laughter, she manages to fool those around her into thinking that she's just a plain and simple girl. Under that disguise, she leads defenders in the war against evil. She does all she can, but it never seems to be enough for the team she guides. Never supported fully, never truly encouraged to go ahead.
To protect those she loves and cares, a shield is created. Clumsy and child-like, she lives an illusion each day. Forced to hide her true self from those she loves and cares for, afraid for them to get hurt... afraid for them to die at the hands of *her* enemies, not theirs. Underneath, she makes wise decisions and puts up with the hurt she feels as people treat her like she's worth nothing at all. By the way she acts, she can never be mistaken for the split identity she lives as. Her enemies see her as someone weak and fearful. Therefore, she is greatly underestimated.
* * * * *
You could call him a monster, a killer. Someone with nothing at all. No feelings, not capable of loving. In a sense, that is true. He does whatever he can do to fulfill his mission. Whatever comes in his way will be directly eliminated. What you don't know is that he was raised this way. He was raised to be an assassin. Who would bring up a child knowing only violence? That will be told another time. As a result of his childhood, he knew nothing about the games or activities that kids his age did. Instead of the regular Hide 'n Seek, he played Seek. That is, he sought out an object, say a disk or papers, and retrieved it. While boys had plastic dull gray toys shaped like weapons, he had a sleek, silver magnum.
Emotions were buried somewhere deep within himself. So long had he gone without them, they were truly starting to dwindle. To be lost forever in a sea of blood and death. He sometimes showed irritation and annoyance, but that was all. Love, joy, happiness, and others were drowning... never surfacing in the deep ebony abyss of the nothingness residing in him. They yearned to be set free, to be able to live and soar. To stomp upon the hate which dominated their master. But alas, they lived each day never knowing what it was like to be free from the prison of blackness. They looked back longingly to the days when he was born and just a small child growing from a tender age. That was when they roamed without their present cage, radiating from the child. But then, their master was left alone without family and they were cut off from him... seemingly for eternity.
* * * * *
You could call her a ditz, a crybaby. Someone who was whiny and selfish, who didn't deserve the status of a princess or leader. That's where you are wrong. Sure, if you look directly on the surface, that's what you'll find. But, underneath all that, you would discover a brave and courageous girl, too wise for one so young. Willing to face the taunts, the teases, the pain... in order to throw suspicion another way. She is the one who sacrifices it all, so that others may live their dream and become what they want. Yet, they call her selfish when she tries to escape the chaos that is her life for at least the time being.
She has a reason for this lie she lives. To be ruled by destiny at the age of fourteen can cause drastic changes in one's character. She does it to become free for a few hours and also to protect those around her. She wants to live a normal life where all she has to worry about is boys and clothing. That dream disappeared the moment she accepted a pink brooch from a talking purple feline. That was when she unknowingly gave in to the destiny that would plan out her whole life. She has a prince, even a daughter in the future. She becomes the queen of the entire world. But is she happy?
* * * * *
These two are kindred spirits in a variety ways. They live a charade in the cruel reality which hit them full force. They represent the two sides of coin. Total opposites, yet alike in more ways than one. They struggle with their inner conflict and turmoil. They want to end it all. End the confusion, end the total emptiness which eats at their very soul. But they can't... because they're needed to fight in their own versions of war.
Neither realizes it, but they thrive on the battle field, loving the particular rush one gets. They both want peace, but at times, they need to feel the adrenaline run through their veins. To feel the sensation of being in total and complete control of one's own action. In a clash which seemingly never ends, they go through each day wondering when the next battle would be. They are grateful that things are quiet, but then get restless.
These two are separated by time, space, and dimensions... Never even knowing that the other exists. Going each day in a normal routine, which never changes. The hectic life which greets them every morning and says good-bye every night, is a curse and at the same time, a blessing. One can look at it from their own point of view. Though separated by a distance immeasurable, is it possible that they'll actually meet?
* * * * *
Confused eyes opened wearily to be greeted with a white ceiling. The person, who was a male, groaned as he brought a hand to his forehead. He tried to sit up but was softly pushed back down by a petite hand. "Where... am I?" he asked, still blinking his eyes and adjusting to the sudden light.
A blurry face floated into his view. "You're in my apartment," a musical voice answered. "I found you in the forest all bruised and broken. I couldn't just leave you there."
He shut his eyes tightly, then opened them. This time he could see perfectly and distinguished a white ceiling decorated with glow-in-the-dark star and planet stickers. He moved to sit up again and felt the gentle hand of his savior place her hand on his shoulder for another time. "Please," he said. "I'll be fine."
The hand fell from his shoulder as he began to study the room. The room was blanketed in paint-covered white sheets. Old wallpaper lay in dirty accumulations in a corner, which had child-like designs of bunnies and moons. The last two sides of the room still had to get the wallpaper taken off. New paint and brushes lay on the side, ready to be used in the right moment. He occupied a queen-sized bed with old rabbit comforter sheets and pillows.
"How do you feel?" the silvery voice spoke again.
The man of about twenty turned to his right to face the one saved him. His breath caught in his throat and suddenly found it hard to breathe. The temperature of the room seemed to raise, or so he thought. A woman his age was kneeling next to him in a beautiful Chinese dress. It was midnight blue with a long slit starting from her right thigh. An embroider dragon traveled across the silk, it's ruby eyes glittering in the light. Long golden hair tumbled down her back in waves.
Blue clashed with blue as the two stared at each other in silence. "Are you all right?" the woman asked with concern.
The stranger was able to work his vocal chords once again. "Umm... yeah... I- I mean- I'm f- fine," he stuttered. 'BAKA!!!' he screamed in his head.
A soft, light giggle filled the air, making strange tingles run up and down the base of the man's spine. "Well, you better lay down again. I want to make sure you're not hurt," she said.
"But-" he started. However, he was interrupted as a slender finger placed itself on his mouth.
"No buts," she scolded with a playful look settling itself on her face.
"Hai, kaasan," he said in a sarcastic tone which came out hoarsely. It was as if he hadn't used that kind of voice in his life ever. He didn't have much time to think about it as he received a smack on the shoulder. "Ow!" he mocked pain.
Sapphire eyes twinkled with amusement. "That's for calling me mother."
"All right, all right," he gave in, defeated. He lay back down on the comforter, a sigh escaping past his lips. He blinked as a ray of sunshine came from the window. He took a double take as he realized the window wasn't even near him. The source of the light had glinted off... her hair?
"What are you staring at?" the woman asked, curiosity shining in her blue orbs.
He ignored her question as he continued to stare at her. "Breathtaking," he murmured, still in a trance.
The woman blushed a rosy pink, making her look more enchanting, if that was even possible. "Are you talking about me?" She pointed to herself to emphasize the point.
"Hai," the man answered, a puzzled look on his face. He tilted his head to the side, making locks of soft hair fall into his eyes. "Is that so hard to believe?"
"Hai," she repeated his own answer barely above a whisper. Her own thoughts wandered far from the subject at hand. She was wondering how it would feel to run her hands through his spiky tresses, debating whether or not it would be hard or silky to the touch.
"Why is that?"
"Why is that what?"
"So hard to believe?"
She shrugged with indifference. "I don't know," she admitted. "It's just... I haven't heard that in awhile, that's all."
"Well then, that must mean you don't have a boyfriend," he commented.
She looked at him sharply. "Why would you think that?"
"Because a woman like you can't possibly go a day without being complimented on how gorgeous you are," he stated matter-of-factly.
Her cheeks returned to their earlier red color. "For your information, mister," she started with a poke to his chest. "I do have a boyfriend."
For some reason, a shattered feeling overcame the man. "Really?" he choked out. "What's he like?"
The woman's laughing blue eyes took on a faraway look. "Well, he's really handsome and has these deep eyes. He has short black hair and always wears practically the same thing everyday, which bugs me to no end," she muttered the last part as her eyes refocused. "He wears a forest green blazer with a black turtleneck." She wrinkled her nose a bit. "They're ugly, trust me. I've been trying to get him to change it but he never does."
"Sounds like a catch," the man muttered as he stared up at the ceiling, trying to ignore the boiling feeling welling up within him.
"I guess you could say that," the woman whispered. He wasn't sure if she was saying it to him or to herself. "I'll go get you something to eat. What would you like?"
"I'll take whatever I can get," he answered.
"All right," she said, nodding her head. "Chocolate it is."
"Don't you have anything healthy?"
"Nope."
"Oh," he said, dumbfounded for a moment. He saw the woman leave the room and he sat up again and scooted against the headboard. He laid his head against the wall and closed his eyes.
Since the woman was no longer in the room to distract him, he could think clearly. He realized he had only referred to his savior as 'the woman.' 'I wonder what her name is...' he mused quietly. Then he thought of something which made him bolt upright immediately. 'I wonder what MY name is!' he thought, panic filling his entire system. His body began to shake uncontrollably.
The woman entered the room again with a few candy bars and cups of hot milk. She immediately set the tray down as she saw her patient curled against the back of the bed. He had his legs scooted up to his chest and his face was buried in his arms. He was shuddering and the bed shook little by little. She ran to his side and took him into her arms.
"Shh," she soothed. "It's okay. It's okay. Let it all out. I'm here for you."
The man's tears suddenly flowed out at her words. He soaked the front of her new dress but she didn't care. Her hands rubbed his back in relaxing circles, calming him. Puffy, red eyes stared at her in shock and embarrassment. He edged away from her and unconsciously noticed the sudden coldness he felt. "Oh god," he stated. "I'm so sorry."
She smiled at him warmly. "That's all right. What's the matter?"
"I can't remember who I am," he choked out.
She noticed the desperate look on his face and her heart went out to him. "Don't worry. I'll help you."
"Soo ka?"
"Hai," she grinned. "My name is Usagi."
"Rabbit?" he questioned.
"Hai," she repeated, her cheeks coloring slightly. She bent her head low, so he couldn't see her face.
The man chuckled briefly. "Kawaii..." he breathed absently, but she didn't hear him.
"What would you like me to call you?" she asked.
The man shrugged indifferently, but inside he was at a loss on what he should do. For some reason, he wasn't use to this. To people like her. People full of light and joy, ready to give happiness to anyone and everyone.
"Takeo?"
"Iie."
"Motoki?"
"Iie."
"Omi?"
"Iie."
"George?"
"Nani?!"
"I'm kidding, I'm kidding. Yeesh, you should learn to calm down. How about... Duo?"
The man gasped and clutched his head, while Usagi quickly supported him. "Daijoubu ka? Daijoubu?!" He couldn't hear her.
*Flashback*
Cobalt blue eyes held mischief and merriment as they gazed upon the immobile figure. "Come on!" the stranger pleaded. "It will be the greatest time you've ever had! You have to lighten up! Be like me! Or at least Quatre!"
"Iie."
The stranger pouted and crossed his arms. "You're no fun, you know that?"
"Hai."
*End Flashback*
"Are you okay?"
"Hai, I'm fine," he replied shakily, bringing his hands up to rub his temples.
"About your name... how about Nanashi?"
*Flashback*
Emerald eyes stared at him silently as if studying him. One was covered by several long brown bangs. "Time for our mission."
"Hn."
*End Flashback*
"No Name?" he blinked as he rubbed his temples. "Hai, I guess that's fine."
"Okay, Nanashi it is. I can't wait until you meet my cousins and brother!"
As if on cue, three loud voices came from the hallway. "Watch where you're going!"
"You watch where you're going!" a voice retorted.
"At least I don't get lost every five minutes!" another voice said.
"Hey! It's a curse I tell you!"
Three figures entered the room, still bickering. Then they noticed their new guest. Two of the figures seemed to be slightly older than Usagi. The last was younger than her, looking to be in his teens. They were all male, and looked strong and willful.
"These," Usagi paused as she rolled her eyes, "are my cousins and my brother."
"Pleasure to meet you," the man said as he nodded.
One of the two cousins returned the nod and grinned. "I'm Usagi's cousin and this is my brother, who I am unfortunately related to."
His brother hit him on the head. "Baka..." he muttered.
The youngest of the three rolled his eyes, just like his sister had done. He stepped forward and shook the man's hand. "How do you do?"
"Fine, thanks," the man replied.
The boy gave a half-smile. "So what's your name?"
"Nanashi." The boy raised an eyebrow but didn't comment. "Yours?"
"Li Syaoran."
End Chapter 1 - Who Am I?
Coming Next - Chapter 2 - Do You Believe In Magic?
Author's Notes: *ducks behind Usa-oneesan and Himi-oneesan* I know, I know! You're probably all wondering why the heck I started a new fanfic! *peeks over shoulders of oneesans* Truth is, I wanted to get this out, just in case someone else would think of it. I didn't want anyone else to think I stole their idea or something. Don't worry! I've been working hard on my other fanfics! Never fear! *oneesans sweatdrop*
Dedications: To Usa-oneesan, her oneesan Eternal SailorM, my new oneesan, Himi-oneesan, D-chan, and Chibi Tenshi.*grins*
******************************
The Man Behind the Gun
Chapter 1 - Who Am I?
Author: Krys Yuy
******************************
War.
It was the only thing that existed in the person's mind. Death and destruction permeated the air, making you want to close off your own oxygen supply. Scenes of blood, shed for no reason at all, replayed themselves again and again. Distinct images of gory corpses and battered bodies of soldiers were there wherever you looked. A sense of foreboding was in the atmosphere, as if indicating the termination of all living beings that hadn't already died. Screams of agony and sobs of grief accompanied the many visions of extinction. Barely a minute of this could make one lose all sanity.
Yet, the person who's mind was filled with all this was alive and well. Living each day with an empty soul. Impassive expressions was all that was shown when any man, woman, or child died by his hands, either on purpose or accident. Never flinching when his finger pulled the trigger and let a death sentence fly to the unsuspecting victim. Calm exposure on the outside, never faltering when duty called. Never letting his conscience get in the way of the purpose of his living.
This person was a machine. Following instructions and orders given by another, he carries them out with no question. No disobedience ever wavered from his form. One would see him as a person who could think for himself, which was true, yet at the same time, wasn't. He could come up with a battle plan in no less than a few hours. Decide what he wanted to wear or do for the day. However, with a direct order given by one of his superior officers, he would drop whatever he was doing and follow that command.
* * * * *
Destiny.
It was the only thing that existed in the person's mind. Events of a time long forgotten replay themselves to someone who was forced to see it all. To see the first life lived and the annihilation of a kingdom which ruled the universe. The enemies that came and conquered a peaceful time returned. In the end, they were defeated, but more came. More challenged the keeper of an ancient artifact with no success. They were destroyed again and again by the power of a unique person. There were so many images, so many memories. They were viewed in a never-ending circle of pain and joy.
Too early had this person been awakened. Too soon to be weighed down with the responsibilities of a warrior. With smiles and laughter, she manages to fool those around her into thinking that she's just a plain and simple girl. Under that disguise, she leads defenders in the war against evil. She does all she can, but it never seems to be enough for the team she guides. Never supported fully, never truly encouraged to go ahead.
To protect those she loves and cares, a shield is created. Clumsy and child-like, she lives an illusion each day. Forced to hide her true self from those she loves and cares for, afraid for them to get hurt... afraid for them to die at the hands of *her* enemies, not theirs. Underneath, she makes wise decisions and puts up with the hurt she feels as people treat her like she's worth nothing at all. By the way she acts, she can never be mistaken for the split identity she lives as. Her enemies see her as someone weak and fearful. Therefore, she is greatly underestimated.
* * * * *
You could call him a monster, a killer. Someone with nothing at all. No feelings, not capable of loving. In a sense, that is true. He does whatever he can do to fulfill his mission. Whatever comes in his way will be directly eliminated. What you don't know is that he was raised this way. He was raised to be an assassin. Who would bring up a child knowing only violence? That will be told another time. As a result of his childhood, he knew nothing about the games or activities that kids his age did. Instead of the regular Hide 'n Seek, he played Seek. That is, he sought out an object, say a disk or papers, and retrieved it. While boys had plastic dull gray toys shaped like weapons, he had a sleek, silver magnum.
Emotions were buried somewhere deep within himself. So long had he gone without them, they were truly starting to dwindle. To be lost forever in a sea of blood and death. He sometimes showed irritation and annoyance, but that was all. Love, joy, happiness, and others were drowning... never surfacing in the deep ebony abyss of the nothingness residing in him. They yearned to be set free, to be able to live and soar. To stomp upon the hate which dominated their master. But alas, they lived each day never knowing what it was like to be free from the prison of blackness. They looked back longingly to the days when he was born and just a small child growing from a tender age. That was when they roamed without their present cage, radiating from the child. But then, their master was left alone without family and they were cut off from him... seemingly for eternity.
* * * * *
You could call her a ditz, a crybaby. Someone who was whiny and selfish, who didn't deserve the status of a princess or leader. That's where you are wrong. Sure, if you look directly on the surface, that's what you'll find. But, underneath all that, you would discover a brave and courageous girl, too wise for one so young. Willing to face the taunts, the teases, the pain... in order to throw suspicion another way. She is the one who sacrifices it all, so that others may live their dream and become what they want. Yet, they call her selfish when she tries to escape the chaos that is her life for at least the time being.
She has a reason for this lie she lives. To be ruled by destiny at the age of fourteen can cause drastic changes in one's character. She does it to become free for a few hours and also to protect those around her. She wants to live a normal life where all she has to worry about is boys and clothing. That dream disappeared the moment she accepted a pink brooch from a talking purple feline. That was when she unknowingly gave in to the destiny that would plan out her whole life. She has a prince, even a daughter in the future. She becomes the queen of the entire world. But is she happy?
* * * * *
These two are kindred spirits in a variety ways. They live a charade in the cruel reality which hit them full force. They represent the two sides of coin. Total opposites, yet alike in more ways than one. They struggle with their inner conflict and turmoil. They want to end it all. End the confusion, end the total emptiness which eats at their very soul. But they can't... because they're needed to fight in their own versions of war.
Neither realizes it, but they thrive on the battle field, loving the particular rush one gets. They both want peace, but at times, they need to feel the adrenaline run through their veins. To feel the sensation of being in total and complete control of one's own action. In a clash which seemingly never ends, they go through each day wondering when the next battle would be. They are grateful that things are quiet, but then get restless.
These two are separated by time, space, and dimensions... Never even knowing that the other exists. Going each day in a normal routine, which never changes. The hectic life which greets them every morning and says good-bye every night, is a curse and at the same time, a blessing. One can look at it from their own point of view. Though separated by a distance immeasurable, is it possible that they'll actually meet?
* * * * *
Confused eyes opened wearily to be greeted with a white ceiling. The person, who was a male, groaned as he brought a hand to his forehead. He tried to sit up but was softly pushed back down by a petite hand. "Where... am I?" he asked, still blinking his eyes and adjusting to the sudden light.
A blurry face floated into his view. "You're in my apartment," a musical voice answered. "I found you in the forest all bruised and broken. I couldn't just leave you there."
He shut his eyes tightly, then opened them. This time he could see perfectly and distinguished a white ceiling decorated with glow-in-the-dark star and planet stickers. He moved to sit up again and felt the gentle hand of his savior place her hand on his shoulder for another time. "Please," he said. "I'll be fine."
The hand fell from his shoulder as he began to study the room. The room was blanketed in paint-covered white sheets. Old wallpaper lay in dirty accumulations in a corner, which had child-like designs of bunnies and moons. The last two sides of the room still had to get the wallpaper taken off. New paint and brushes lay on the side, ready to be used in the right moment. He occupied a queen-sized bed with old rabbit comforter sheets and pillows.
"How do you feel?" the silvery voice spoke again.
The man of about twenty turned to his right to face the one saved him. His breath caught in his throat and suddenly found it hard to breathe. The temperature of the room seemed to raise, or so he thought. A woman his age was kneeling next to him in a beautiful Chinese dress. It was midnight blue with a long slit starting from her right thigh. An embroider dragon traveled across the silk, it's ruby eyes glittering in the light. Long golden hair tumbled down her back in waves.
Blue clashed with blue as the two stared at each other in silence. "Are you all right?" the woman asked with concern.
The stranger was able to work his vocal chords once again. "Umm... yeah... I- I mean- I'm f- fine," he stuttered. 'BAKA!!!' he screamed in his head.
A soft, light giggle filled the air, making strange tingles run up and down the base of the man's spine. "Well, you better lay down again. I want to make sure you're not hurt," she said.
"But-" he started. However, he was interrupted as a slender finger placed itself on his mouth.
"No buts," she scolded with a playful look settling itself on her face.
"Hai, kaasan," he said in a sarcastic tone which came out hoarsely. It was as if he hadn't used that kind of voice in his life ever. He didn't have much time to think about it as he received a smack on the shoulder. "Ow!" he mocked pain.
Sapphire eyes twinkled with amusement. "That's for calling me mother."
"All right, all right," he gave in, defeated. He lay back down on the comforter, a sigh escaping past his lips. He blinked as a ray of sunshine came from the window. He took a double take as he realized the window wasn't even near him. The source of the light had glinted off... her hair?
"What are you staring at?" the woman asked, curiosity shining in her blue orbs.
He ignored her question as he continued to stare at her. "Breathtaking," he murmured, still in a trance.
The woman blushed a rosy pink, making her look more enchanting, if that was even possible. "Are you talking about me?" She pointed to herself to emphasize the point.
"Hai," the man answered, a puzzled look on his face. He tilted his head to the side, making locks of soft hair fall into his eyes. "Is that so hard to believe?"
"Hai," she repeated his own answer barely above a whisper. Her own thoughts wandered far from the subject at hand. She was wondering how it would feel to run her hands through his spiky tresses, debating whether or not it would be hard or silky to the touch.
"Why is that?"
"Why is that what?"
"So hard to believe?"
She shrugged with indifference. "I don't know," she admitted. "It's just... I haven't heard that in awhile, that's all."
"Well then, that must mean you don't have a boyfriend," he commented.
She looked at him sharply. "Why would you think that?"
"Because a woman like you can't possibly go a day without being complimented on how gorgeous you are," he stated matter-of-factly.
Her cheeks returned to their earlier red color. "For your information, mister," she started with a poke to his chest. "I do have a boyfriend."
For some reason, a shattered feeling overcame the man. "Really?" he choked out. "What's he like?"
The woman's laughing blue eyes took on a faraway look. "Well, he's really handsome and has these deep eyes. He has short black hair and always wears practically the same thing everyday, which bugs me to no end," she muttered the last part as her eyes refocused. "He wears a forest green blazer with a black turtleneck." She wrinkled her nose a bit. "They're ugly, trust me. I've been trying to get him to change it but he never does."
"Sounds like a catch," the man muttered as he stared up at the ceiling, trying to ignore the boiling feeling welling up within him.
"I guess you could say that," the woman whispered. He wasn't sure if she was saying it to him or to herself. "I'll go get you something to eat. What would you like?"
"I'll take whatever I can get," he answered.
"All right," she said, nodding her head. "Chocolate it is."
"Don't you have anything healthy?"
"Nope."
"Oh," he said, dumbfounded for a moment. He saw the woman leave the room and he sat up again and scooted against the headboard. He laid his head against the wall and closed his eyes.
Since the woman was no longer in the room to distract him, he could think clearly. He realized he had only referred to his savior as 'the woman.' 'I wonder what her name is...' he mused quietly. Then he thought of something which made him bolt upright immediately. 'I wonder what MY name is!' he thought, panic filling his entire system. His body began to shake uncontrollably.
The woman entered the room again with a few candy bars and cups of hot milk. She immediately set the tray down as she saw her patient curled against the back of the bed. He had his legs scooted up to his chest and his face was buried in his arms. He was shuddering and the bed shook little by little. She ran to his side and took him into her arms.
"Shh," she soothed. "It's okay. It's okay. Let it all out. I'm here for you."
The man's tears suddenly flowed out at her words. He soaked the front of her new dress but she didn't care. Her hands rubbed his back in relaxing circles, calming him. Puffy, red eyes stared at her in shock and embarrassment. He edged away from her and unconsciously noticed the sudden coldness he felt. "Oh god," he stated. "I'm so sorry."
She smiled at him warmly. "That's all right. What's the matter?"
"I can't remember who I am," he choked out.
She noticed the desperate look on his face and her heart went out to him. "Don't worry. I'll help you."
"Soo ka?"
"Hai," she grinned. "My name is Usagi."
"Rabbit?" he questioned.
"Hai," she repeated, her cheeks coloring slightly. She bent her head low, so he couldn't see her face.
The man chuckled briefly. "Kawaii..." he breathed absently, but she didn't hear him.
"What would you like me to call you?" she asked.
The man shrugged indifferently, but inside he was at a loss on what he should do. For some reason, he wasn't use to this. To people like her. People full of light and joy, ready to give happiness to anyone and everyone.
"Takeo?"
"Iie."
"Motoki?"
"Iie."
"Omi?"
"Iie."
"George?"
"Nani?!"
"I'm kidding, I'm kidding. Yeesh, you should learn to calm down. How about... Duo?"
The man gasped and clutched his head, while Usagi quickly supported him. "Daijoubu ka? Daijoubu?!" He couldn't hear her.
*Flashback*
Cobalt blue eyes held mischief and merriment as they gazed upon the immobile figure. "Come on!" the stranger pleaded. "It will be the greatest time you've ever had! You have to lighten up! Be like me! Or at least Quatre!"
"Iie."
The stranger pouted and crossed his arms. "You're no fun, you know that?"
"Hai."
*End Flashback*
"Are you okay?"
"Hai, I'm fine," he replied shakily, bringing his hands up to rub his temples.
"About your name... how about Nanashi?"
*Flashback*
Emerald eyes stared at him silently as if studying him. One was covered by several long brown bangs. "Time for our mission."
"Hn."
*End Flashback*
"No Name?" he blinked as he rubbed his temples. "Hai, I guess that's fine."
"Okay, Nanashi it is. I can't wait until you meet my cousins and brother!"
As if on cue, three loud voices came from the hallway. "Watch where you're going!"
"You watch where you're going!" a voice retorted.
"At least I don't get lost every five minutes!" another voice said.
"Hey! It's a curse I tell you!"
Three figures entered the room, still bickering. Then they noticed their new guest. Two of the figures seemed to be slightly older than Usagi. The last was younger than her, looking to be in his teens. They were all male, and looked strong and willful.
"These," Usagi paused as she rolled her eyes, "are my cousins and my brother."
"Pleasure to meet you," the man said as he nodded.
One of the two cousins returned the nod and grinned. "I'm Usagi's cousin and this is my brother, who I am unfortunately related to."
His brother hit him on the head. "Baka..." he muttered.
The youngest of the three rolled his eyes, just like his sister had done. He stepped forward and shook the man's hand. "How do you do?"
"Fine, thanks," the man replied.
The boy gave a half-smile. "So what's your name?"
"Nanashi." The boy raised an eyebrow but didn't comment. "Yours?"
"Li Syaoran."
End Chapter 1 - Who Am I?
Coming Next - Chapter 2 - Do You Believe In Magic?
Author's Notes: *ducks behind Usa-oneesan and Himi-oneesan* I know, I know! You're probably all wondering why the heck I started a new fanfic! *peeks over shoulders of oneesans* Truth is, I wanted to get this out, just in case someone else would think of it. I didn't want anyone else to think I stole their idea or something. Don't worry! I've been working hard on my other fanfics! Never fear! *oneesans sweatdrop*