Chase vs. Kimiko

Chapter 4: Day 3

The sun had not yet rose; but the most powerful evil being had, and in a good guys' house. Chase Young woke up upside down - with his pillow under his feet and blanket all over his face. Grumbling about not being able to sleep the night before to himself, he made his bed and went for a wash. As the warm water flowed through his tangled hair, he sighed. He wanted to see her again. But he could not risk having anyone seeing him, especially when there was a fellow early riser under the same roof. Just as if he could read his thoughts, Master Monk Guan could be heard just outside.

"Early rise due to habit? Or is there another reason?" he asked

"None of your business. And by the way, I have the mornings to myself as a privileged rule. At least until everyone else wakes up." replied Chase, not trying to ruin his own mood.

"What form of harm is there to ask?"

"What form of harm is there not to ask?" Chase retorted as he changed into his final set of pleasant clothing from the night before. Stepping out of the shower, he could hear the baldie having his splash in H2O. Not bothered about him, Chase walked away to a tree to meditate. Swinging himself up, he settled himself between a forking in the tree. Before he could start, he noticed from the corner of his eye several controlled scratchings upon the wood. Turning to it, he realized they were writings – and because of the neat design of the vowels, it was obviously done in the hand of a girl. The writing was done in a hurry but was still eligible.

Dear Chase, Kimiko here. Sorry if this is rather primitive and childish, but I don't know how else I could pass messages to you. I could try to get my daddy to give me a spare PDA or hand phone so it would take less time for us to talk. Reply please!

Chuckling at the teenager's eagerness for communication with him, he decided to play along. He used power from the tip of his finger and wrote carefully.

Your translation of my speech is wrong my Dear. I meant that we can still see each other, but only at certain times. Do not worry; you will know when it is time

Chase merely managed to complete carving the shape out when he felt another presence. Slipping his belt back on, he shifted his eyes for a glance. The Master Monk was strolling in his direction. In a flash Chase assumed meditation posture and hoped the fella would not see him.

"I can see you Chase, if you think I can't." Guan called up to him.

"I could sense you were coming this way Master Monk Guan, if you think I can't"

Guan sighed, wanting to handle the second retorting from Chase. He had never wanted them to be enemies; they were the best of friends and had battled danger together for long years. "I have only just arrived and you are already so worked up?"

"Yes. I am. For you have a tenancy to get in my way of everything. In fact, you are in my way of meditation right now." Chase sounded rather pissed.

"Alright. Another time then." The orange wearing man left and headed back into the temple building. Although he hated Guan, Chase could not help but wonder why the Monk bothered to speak to him when they were bitter enemies. He had even fired his question back as answers! He thought for a few more moments then decided to hold the thought, till there's a time when he had nothing else to think about, and resumed meditation.

Waking up with the late morning sunlight shining upon her face, Kimiko smiled a yawn. A daredevil stunt in the middle of the night, vandalism on a temple tree and dodging any watching eyes had knocked her out. I hope he read it today, coz' other people here also like to climb trees... "I have already replied to your little message my love, if that is what you are wondering."

Kimiko sat up in shock and straight away she was taken into him. Chase did not wait for her to realize he was there; he simply brought his lips to hers. She figured who it was and closed her eyes, moving her hands over his chest without breaking the kiss. They were soon around his neck, bringing him closer to her. He in turn trailed his hands down to her waist and pulled her onto his outstretched lap. He caressed her hips slowly and moved up along the lining of her back. Tongues were intertwined as the couple sank deeper into the moment. Unfortunately, they gently drawing away. Their eyes met and they wrapped their arms around each other, savoring the moment. But neither breakfast time nor greedy Xiaolin monks would permit it to last long, causing them to let go. Giving each other one last smile they went their seperate ways. Kimiko headed for the dining room and Chase for the gutter.

Master Monk Guan and the other monks were feasting at the table when Kimiko joined them. The boys grinned a 'good morning' to her as she sat down and chose her breakfast dishes.

"You know, although he's a real pain in the butt, that Chase Young is a good cook. I mean like real good good." commented Raimondo grabbing a toast from the bread basket. "And I usually say nothin' good about that guy."

" I reckon we make him cook for us more often." suggested Clay with his mouth full of eggs, " Just have him stay away from the ribs. It's my old family's trademark and he ain't touchin' my speciality."

"You guys make him do anymore cooking and he'll be doing every chore in the temple!" said Kimiko, snatching the last piece of toast from under Raimondo's nose, "Come on, like, we won't have anything to do around here if that happens."

" But Kimiko, that is what we all want." insisted Omi, " We always complain when we have to do chores and wish someone would do them all everytime! Besides, when Jack Spicer joined us in the temple we made him do all the chores, and you enjoyed it as much as all of us."

"Yeah. C'mon Kimiko, fella's gonna be here for as long as he lives, which is forever. Might as well get him used to it." stated Raimondo.

"But because he is going to be here for all eternity Raimondo," replied Master Monk Guan, "Take it easy on him. Chase Young was a destructive foe, but spending the rest of eternity on the Xiaolin side itself is already fair punishment. Besides," The Master signaled for them to lean closer, "we would want him on our side, won't we? Make his time here fairly pleasant, until he decides to come back."

"You mean he will turn back to the side of good?!?" cried Omi delighted

"SHHH!!" the other monks hissed. Omi slapped his hands over his mouth and turned his head to look around. Raimondo frowned and pulled the little yellow sucker back into the discussion circle.

"There is a slight chance, young monks." continued the Master, "But even if after a long time has passed and nothing has changed, keep the treatment the same lest he suspect our 'plan'"

"You really think he'll change?" asked the stubborn leader, clearly unconvinced.

"I do and do not. Nothing is ever certain with a Heylin. But hope is." Guan stood up and signaled them to do the same. "Continue with your breakfast. I need to speak with Master Fung."

"So we're gonna be up to it, eh?" Raimondo glanced at his teammates unhopefully.

"Well you heard the Master, Rai." Kimiko stuck her tongue out at the boy, "Safe and sound and in one piece."

"But – aww c'mon."

"If there is hope, there's a path!" Omi's eyes glittered in joy.

"Ya know, though it ain't really makin' sense to treat an over cocky cockerel like Chase Young nicely..." Clay raised his hat up so they could see his seriousness, "... the outcome sure sounds worthwhile."

"Argh. Not you guys too..." groaned Raimondo, "Fine. Fine. Fine. We'll do what Master Monk GUANO says. But if he gets comfy around here don't blame me." He looked at the rest before striding out of the kitchen.

The rest of the group shrugged their shoulders and proceeded to slack until afternoon. Clay went for a walk with Omi, talking about horses and ropes and other brainless topics. Kimiko decided to stroll and relax at the back of the temple where it was shaded from the burning sun. She took out her PDA and decided to message some friends back home. After sending out a few, she leaned back and played a few mind games to pass the time. Like the friends they were, they replied very quickly and very soon Kimiko was on multiple calling. Her conversation was hard to ignore, although he had a rather difficult task right in front of him. Her voice could be heard very clearly from where he was for he was cleaning the room which shared the same wall facing that backyard. Chase soaked an old rag in the soapy bucket then squeezed it till damp. He did it again and again, but even with his worth of time spent in solid concentration practice, that girl continuously distracted him.

Kimiko was excited when her friends began to call her. At first all they talked about was their personal lives and issues, until one of them brought up the topic about her new boyfriend. Everyone instantly was in a very high mood as the girl began telling about her first date with him. When the story was all over, they were not able to resist but gang up on Kimiko and demanded information on her social life in the Xiaolin Temple. The Japanese warrior kept silent for a few moments while her friends kept bugging her. Thinking no one was listening; the defeated lass spilled the beans. She told them why and when they started, but did not mention who. He is loyal. He is determined. He keeps his promises. He can plan and care for things in his personal interest. He knows how to handle situations even if the odds are against him. Etcetera etcetera etcetera. Her friends giggled and squealed throughout but still were curious.

"He sounds sooo cute! And hot, girl!"

"Ya! But who is he? You didn't tell us yet."

"Eh? You're right! Who is he Kimiko?"

"Yeah. Like, people always start with the name Kim!"

The fire girl sighed, "I know that! It's just that we are keeping it down a little. You know, at least until everyone else seems cool. He isn't exactly the most liked guy around here."

"You mean, it's not Raimondo?!"

Kimiko shivered in disgust, "Ewww. No way."

"Then who? A new guy came in? Coz' the other fellas so ain't your type Kim."

"Totally right. Omi is so high headed and Clay just doesn't have it, ya know what mua means?"

She began to feel hassled, "I'll tell you guys soon, ok?"

"When?"

Kimiko's hand was taken into another and raised up. "When she tells you. That's when." And he pressed the hang up key. She looked up. Chase had crooked one corner of his lips downwards in disapproval.

"Wha – Why did you do that?" she asked.

"You and your little device were getting a little too ... distracting. I could hear you from behind this wall." He gestured to the white cement behind her.

"But everyone else is, like, way over there..."

"Unfortunately there is one who is not like everyone else."

Kimiko had a confused expression plastered on her face. The immortal showed her his long hair, before twisting his wrist in a do-not-have sign. "Omi?" she tried to guess. He shook his head and measured a height by reaching with his hand. She took a moment to decipher this before mouthing an 'Oh ok', she smiled in apology and took his arm. Chase smirked back but carefully removed her hand from him and walked backwards, eventually strolling away.

Smiling in an ecstasy of love for the man, the swooning little lady glanced at the time. 1.30pm; lunchtime, and I'm late! Kimiko jumped up and ran as fast as her legs could go. She let loose a fly kiss while passing her love. Upon reaching the table though, the dishes were still half full. The others watched her as she scooped onto her plate some rice and sat down.

"You're late. And a second time today, Kimiko." noted Master Monk Guan

"Yes. And you are never late." added Omi

"Well I was talking on the phone and kinda got carried away. Sorry." Kimiko smiled.

"Yeah we know. We could hear you blabbering for half an hour." Raimondo rolled his eyes.

"You were louder than chickens at feeding time." Clay described what the Brazillian meant.

"I ... was?" Her heart suddenly beat faster, in fear.

"You and whoever you were talking to sure love puppies and chocolate more than life." replied Clay

"And your song discussion drove me up the door! I could not meditate in peace!" cried the yellow monk.

"Don't let your excitement lead you away so easily Kimiko. For there are not only Xiaolin monks here." Warned Master Fung.

"Alright. Sorry guys." After which the luncheon fun started.

Fine young lady she is. Chase thought smiling. He was balancing on a thin plank of moldy wood while cleaning and fixing the gutter. But hopefully Guan was no where near, or meditating or listening out for anything. Although she did speak rather loudly at first, at least the last parts of the conversation were quite soft. "Heng ah". Suddenly laughter rang in his ears, disrupting his thoughts. Master Monk Guan gave out an order before appearing in front of the Heylin on the floor. The Master had a short word with Chase, and then left him to continue with the chores. The relieved man thought over the information he was just given. "Great.", he mumbled after a few moments, "Things just get better and better."

(Heng ah means something like "Whew" or exclaimations like "thank goodness" "thank heaven")

"Now what we do?" asked Kimiko, looking at her fellow monks who were equally bored.

"Well, we could always have a little swim." suggested Raimondo while grinning at the girl, who was the only one for miles around.

Disgusted, she gave the dirty boy a slap. "Sick-o."

"But Rai's right, today's hot." And Clay was right. The sun blazed upon the temple and its grounds, scorching anyone who stepped under its deadly ultraviolet rays.

"I got an idea." said Raimondo. Everyone watched him call his element. Wind from the northern cold blew into the veranda instantly, cooling them very quickly. The Wudai warriors cheered for their leader then relaxed, enjoying the breeze. Raimondo, feeling enlightened about himself, decided to direct the wind into the temple buildings. "Ahh"s and "Ooh"s could be heard along the corridors from other monks, until a yell of disappointment and surprise exploded out in the direction of the kitchen.

Everyone rushed to the scene and found an unnaturally white pigmented man glaring at an empty sack of flour on the floor. The Dragons of Wind and Earth tried to hide their laughter at the sight; Chase Young was covered in the fine powder from top to bottom – not a single strand of his hair was spared! Master Monk Guan glared at the boys, making them slick away. He then dismissed the other sightseers and turned to a remaining two. Kimiko and Omi had walked over to the victim of the treacherous baking ingredient and were offering their help. Not giving either of them a glance, Chase dusted himself and proceeded to clean up the snowy mess. In return, he had the broom snatched from his white hands by the girl and a wet cloth from under his nose by the yellow kid.

"What's the magic word?" smiled Kimiko as she swept.

"Not in the mood." growled back Chase.

"Will it hurt to say it?" chuckled Omi wiping the sink.

The man ignored the question and walked past them and opened a new sack of flour. The two shrugged their shoulders and continued with the cleaning. They did not stop at there though. As soon as they were done, each stood at either side of the silent chef, taking up his breathing space. Chase poured the water into the mixture and mixed trying all the time not to knock the unhelpful helpers. But they would not budge from where they stood, in fact, they shuffled closer every time Chase tried to avoid them. Soon they were so close he could not inhale without bumping into the Xiaolin rascals. "What do you want from me?" he finally asked.

"A thank you?" the boy replied.

"Or a little something else to do?" the girl giggled.

"Thank you. And if you want some thing to do, you could let me breathe freely for starters." They moved back and waited for another suggestion.

"Any of you know how to pre-heat an oven? And handle dough? My appreciations."

Kimiko turned the switches and took a piece of dough from Chase. She covered her hands in flour, pulled and rolled the raw pastry around. Chase smiled at the girl on his right before looking at his former apprentice. Omi was working strongly on his piece and was having plenty of problems with the sticky parts. The young Chinese boy squeezed and squashed the dough all over his tray until it was covered in the stuff.

"The tray has more dough than you Omi." he stated.

"It has simply been a very long time since I have kneaded dough Chase Young." immediately excused Omi. "And there are no other reasons!" He applied more strength to the stubborn white blob.

"Yes, obviously." Chase rolled up his overall sleeves. "Would you like me to help you refresh your memory?"

"Oh yes please!" Omi sighed happily. "But first, how do you rid of these?!" the small monk rubbed his hands together in attempt to remove the paste clinging onto his fingers.

"Wash your hands." The man turned his head in Kimiko's direction and rolled his eyes, making her giggle. The lass watched as he turned his focus back to the boy, and her eyes slowly trailed to his exposed arms. They were not flexed or anything like that, but they were obviously strong and naturally well built. Despite the he skin was visibly smooth and tanned in a hot guy kind of shade. She had never seen anyone with such perfect limbs.

"I think you have tortured the dough long enough Kimiko." A sudden voice jolted her out of her daydream. He had stood behind her and curled his fingers around her petite wrists. She looked up and was eye to eye with him, and her cheeks blushed a bright pink. He flashed a charming smile while taking the pastry from her hands and stepped back towards the oven. Her over-kneaded piece joined the other two; one had bits sticking out like a porcupine whereas the other was a flawless oval. "Please wash up the used utensils while I prepare something else for your Tea." asked Chase politely before turning to the dreaded pantry, for anything could be found in that vertically positioned box from pepper to a fat rat from what he remembered 1500 years ago. He opened the door, picked several types of fruits and turned, to face Kimiko.

"Yes? May I help you?" He had a slight glint in his eyes.

"No. But may I help you?" Then she tried to take a few things from him.

"Not in this way." He replied with a crooked smile. He laid out the ingredients and took out a few of the unused utensils from the cupboard. "Do you know where the fruit baskets are kept?"

"Yeah."

"Could you get me some?". Then he whispered, "While I persuade our yellow friend to go somewhere else."

"Sure! " She strolled out of the kitchen while Chase went over to the sink. Omi was summoning water out of the tap and washed the kitchen spotless. Sensing Chase Young coming up behind him, he spun on his heel to look at the man. "And what's afterwards?" Omi asked grinning.

"It's enough what you have done Omi. You may go if it pleases you." Chase directed the eager boy to the door.

"Huh? Really? Is there nothing else I can do?" the boy looked disappointed.

"Yes. But I believe Master Monk Guan would like a little company, for a start, if you do not know what else to do."

Omi gave a puppy dog pout. Chase shivered inwardly, "Or you could set the dining table, then leave."

"GREAT!" yelled Omi as he sped away. Wham! He banged right into a girl and her basket. "Oops! My apologies Kimiko!" exclaimed the surprised lad before helping her up. Kimiko frowned as the boy's dust flew into her face. She shook her head and made her way to the kitchen.

"Hey Chase! Would this basket d –" she could not complete her sentence. Her lips were hooked by another's; Chase Young was starved of his dear. She closed her eyes as a tongue touched her lips, demanding enterance. It searched her mouth hungrily, diving under her tongue to get her going for him. She groaned and felt soft at the hips, at which a strong pair of arms put themselves around. He slowly pinned her to a wall and felt along her spine, making her shiver. He brought his hand behind her neck and licked the tip of her ear. Instinctively she wrapped herself around his chest to bring them closer together. Gently, his other hand trailed down to the curve of her back as he took to her lips again. He went over her molars and finally lapped at a particular gap behind them . She groaned louder and he lapped faster. Realizing they both were going, he pondered the thought of stopping before it was too late. But he could feel the world falling away and his conscience dissolving. He suddenly pushed hard against her, surprising the young girl. She opened her eyes, only to see him in heavy, uncontrollable desire and lust. He moved his lips to her neck and sucked at the skin before caressing her upper body, running his hand over her front. If that was not enough, hands were doing the same inside her shirt. He neared her bra when she could not take it. "CHASE STOP!" Kimiko cried in fear. Chase snapped back into reality and let go of her. The girl covered her front with her arms as the man staggered back, in unbelief of his intentions. Lust, the disastrous desire, had taken over him. He nearly – no, he cannot bring himself to even think about it. Chase and Kimiko looked into each other's eyes until Kimiko couldn't take it.

"Why – What were you doing? In fact, do you even know what you were doing?!" Kimiko was distressed.

"I do not know, honored dear. I –"

"What do you mean you do not know?! We could have lost something very important you know!"

Just then, a teen's voice yelled "You going to bring the food out yet Chase?" He replied, "Soon, Master."

Chase turned his attention back to Kimiko."I am very sorry, my beloved Kimiko." He went on his knees and took the tips of her shaking fingers.

Kimiko took her hands from him as her eyes filled with hurt. "A sorry would not have been able to change anything if it happened Chase!"

"But nothing did happen!" he tried to take her hands again.

"What if it did?!" she was about to burst into tears. "Not even your powers can restore us!"

"I am dreadfully sorry." Chase stood and took her in his arms, "I shall be more controlled next time."

"Next time... I am not sure about a next time." She mumbled. bit her lip

"One chance, please my dear. Just one chance."

Another voice broke in, "How long is 'soon'?". Chase replied again, "Soon, Master Monk Guan."

Kimiko bit her lip. She began to recall a little incident that started off just like this she had heard from her school back home, and how it ended. She could see this man meant it, but did he really?

"Alright. But one chance is it, ok?" The Dragon of Fire hoped she had made the right choice.

The Heylin Dragon sighed with relief. "Thank you Kimiko. I promise, I will not do such a vulgar thing again.". Kimiko merely nodded but noticed the sigh he made; she could not help but give Chase a hug around his waist. He was touched, seriously touched, and hugged her back gently. No one had ever given him a second chance out of their choice for the longest time, being Heylin.

Just then, groans of impatience hollered among several hungry youngsters. The couple parted, their arms still around each other and smiled, before letting go. Chase signaled her to stay where she was while he went over to the second oven at the back of the kitchen, and took out a tray piled with baked cookies and muffins of various fillings. "Baked them while you lot were sun tanning." he grinned. Kimiko huffed and took the cooled tray. He did not watch her leave but headed to the stove where there was a pot tea he had boiled long ago and to the cupboard where the Chinese tea cups were kept. Balancing all of them on the last tray available, the skilled Tai Chi master walked into the dining room and laid them down. Without a word to anyone, Chase poured the tea into each cup, bowed, and left for his other chores.

Kimiko watched him leave for a moment before her eyes looked at the ground where he bowed, then to her plate. Will he keep his promise? Yesterday he had the same problem when we kissed, but he could stop himself then. Plus, I didn't wanna stop us yesterday but he convinced me that we should! How could he not stop himself today?

"Excuse me Kimiko, but you have not taken a chew of the food."

"Hey Kimiko!"

"Earth to Kimiko! Earth to Kimiko! All food is being consumed from under your nose! Kimiko reply!"

She jerked her head up. All eyes were on her and the table was quiet. Kimiko began to feel embarrassed and said the first thing that came to her mind, "Er...heh heh. Hi?"

"What's the matter Kimiko?" questioned Master Fung. He sounded quite worried for the girl.

"Nothing. I'm just thinking."

"Okay. If you say so." Kimiko looked in the direction of the voice. Strangely, it came from the guy who would have nagged her until he heard an alternate answer from her; Raimondo shrugged his shoulders and went on munching on a chocolate muffin. "So what was taking that guy so long? We were like starving and he just said 'soon' 'soon'."

The girl's heart jumped at the question. She eyed the surroundings nervously and slowly, noting their faces clearly. Swallowing hard, she tried not to lie, just twist the truth. "He was ... uh ... busy, with ... um ... What do you call that thing that sticks to you no matter what?"

"Sticky bread dough?" grumbled Omi, showing everyone the white things on his fingers.

"Yeah. Something like that." Kimiko breathed a sigh of relief. "Can someone pass the bread basket?"

In the meantime, Chase was on his hands and knees fighting the greatest battle in his life; making the main hall sparkle and shine brighter than Guan's head. His weapons, a pail full of diluted soap and a rough scrub. But that was not what the great Heylin Master was thinking about, the thing that mattered was far from a stubborn tea stain. Kimiko would have been the one who would bear his mistake, his incompetence, his child if it be. What was he thinking? Oh yes, NOTHING. And guess what? That was what his life was going to be, NOTHING, again. Those ladies did not forgive him; either that or they simply were pimps themselves. He hurled the tool in his hand on the floor mercilessly in his recollection. It bounced off the floor and smacked right into his lowered face. "Wah saì!" he cursed through his teeth. He glared at it for a few moments, slowly his eyes softened in self-regret. He was the one who threw it, not a surprise it flew back at him. Just like the mistakes had. He picked up the scrub and promised out loud from his dark heart, keeping the tool in his sight. He was going to keep this scrub; Kimiko is not like the other women he had met long ago, he was not going to lose her, not this one and not this time. Satisfied and sure of himself, Chase smiled in determination and continued with the floor.

(Wah is just the Chinese way of plain exclamation, like 'ah!'. saì means shit in Chinese.)

Now that he was truly focused on the cleaning, he realized how much filth he was going to have to face. His centuries worth of workout was not helping; some stains insisted on staying where they were. Finally he put down the scrub and stood, his head high and arms outstretched straight. Summoning up his powers, he levitated the diluted soap from the pail as well as himself to the center of the whole hall. Closing his eyes, he dispersed the liquid in all directions. The ceiling had tentacles of soapy water swiping the cobwebs and dust, the walls were splashed clean, and the floor soaking wet. Without opening his eyes, he sent the soap into cracks and holes, washing out hundreds of successful bug families and other bits of you-do-not-want-to-know-about. Sensing all was well, the wizard lowered himself onto the floor, opened his eyes and walked out of the squeaky clean hall with the extremely dirty liquid floating behind him. He stopped by the temple wall and looked over. Seeing no one within range, he tossed the filth far out and saw the setting sun.

He blinked at the light and hurriedly headed to the kitchen, just to find it packed with monks. Even Master Monk Guan was there, and he signaled to Chase that they were handling it. Chase nodded but had the look of so-what-do-I-do. The Master handed the spoon to Clay before walking over to him. "The decorations have not yet been put up in the hall. Could you see to it?" Chase nodded. "Good. You may go."

The magician walked back but suddenly froze. He felt a tinge of his power disperse from him and blinked, wondering what happened. Dismissing it as paranoia, Chase shook his head and walked down the hallway and into the storeroom and back into the main hall. He grinned as evil ideas of decoration flitted across his mind. The monks would send his head rolling if he did what he was thinking of doing. Party streamers hanging like cobwebs, balloons coloured disgusting black brown and sick green, and the banner splattered like blood, graffiti of faces of insanity, misery and suffering. But this was for Kimiko and he was going to do the best he could for her, the best for his lady. Lifting his hands, he used telekinesis and hung hot-coloured streamers on the ceiling, dangling at their full length. Focusing hard, he brought in wind to blow up purple, dark blue, black, silver, yellow, hot pink and green balloons. Tying up the rubber air bags, he hung them everywhere as convenient and matching as possible. A large roll of red cloth, twice the size of his bed, he then laid out. He took a moment to design the words in his mind then took a brush and painted out a group of words.

"You're missing something." a teasing teenager's voice suddenly piped in.

Chase looked up and replied, "What else is there, Master?"

Raimondo immediately said, "What about writing why we are proud of Kimiko, eh?"

Chase knew what the boy was getting at, and did not like it. "On a surprise party banner? No better idea could be given Master."

Raimondo understood the sarcasm very well but just threw it back. "Of course!" His face glowed with self-importance. "I was thinking of something along the lines of 'for defeating the all powerful Chase Young'." He saw the warrior drop his head and grip at the paintbrush. Purposely he added, "And you do that, OK?" With that, the Brazilian strode out, a large grin of satisfaction stretching from ear to ear. The servant dude was gonna have to obey his order. Can't wait to see what he's writing.

Chase nodded briefly in reply to the order; the most he could do to hide his trembling of hatred for the Leader of the Wudai Dragons. The Air head knew he had to obey every order, and this one no exception. The immortal crossed his legs and sat up straight. He wanted to take a while to think of another way he could put the statement, a way that would keep him from severe humiliation. He placed his hands on his knees and searched his wisdom for a replacement statement. It did not take long. Soon he was dipping the brush in gold paint and blowing the words dry. Then a voice so dear to him tapped softly into his mind, Hey Chase. How are you, my dear Kimiko? he replied. Fine. I just wanted to say I really do forgive you, again. her words soothed his cold heart. And I was wondering if you would like to – What do you want Omi? Chase was taken aback and asked, Kimiko? Gotta go Chase, and she hung up. He looked into blank space for the next few moments in confusion. Shrugging off her rudeness, he went to put a few finishing touches to the decorations and wash off some paint.

"What are you guys doing?" asked Kimiko, annoyed at the racket made by the two boys. She was sitting in the tree reading Chase's message.

"Raimondo is most dishonorable! He took my bag of candy!" announced Omi in the Wudai Air Dragon's face.

"Did not! You took mine!" hurled back Raimondo. With a battle yell, the yellow victim flew at the lying thief. Raimondo blocked his move, and soon they were rolling in the dirt.

"Stop it you two!" screeched Kimiko as she blasted a few sparks at their pants. "Master Fung will have us doing push ups only Chase Young can live to see us finish!" The boys yelped and fanned at their buttocks with their hands. Raimondo glanced at his pants.

"Please, why would Chase care in the first place?" He spotted a large black mark on his precious khaki baggies. "Awww man! This was good pants! Oh well, at least I'm not the one who's gonna wash it!"

Kimiko put her hands at her hips.

"What? That's what a servant's for, right?" Raimondo was surprised with her glare.

"Yeah but, he's human too." She protested.

"Oh! Of coarse he is! How idiotic of me, Kimiko! That is why he had tried to destroy the WORLD and US!" His voice was dripping with sarcasm.

"And turned me into a CAT. OH OH! And allowed the Chi Creature to absorb your Chi! AND AND – " continued little squealing Omi

"Looks like I need'a be more specific..." Kimiko took a deep breath. Just when her mouth opened, there was an interruption.

"Are you standing up for him or somethin', Kim?" Raimondo narrowed his eyes in suspicion. She has been going to dreamland and disappearing from things a lot. He pondered the thought slowly. Like ever since that over-grown lizard came around...

"Maybe!" Her sudden outburst shattered his thoughts, and cracked a corner of his heart.

"WHAT?" Omi's mouth dangled wide and low. "YOU ARE DEFENDING THE ENEMY?!"

"I said MAYBE." Kimiko frowned at the fry's impudence.

"But 'maybe' is closer to a positive reply than to a negative reply." The fry made a balance with his hands as he explained as-a-matter-of-factly.

"Quit it Omi. You're beginning to pluck my nerves." Her eyes were beginning to spark.

"Then what is 'MAYBE' supposed to mean, huh Kimiko?" Raimondo recovered with a firm challenge for the girl.

"Look up in the dictionary, Einsteins." She said though her teeth.

"But there is none in the temple. Besides, we all know the basics of the English language."

"Then why did you ask me what I meant by 'MAYBE'?" The sparks started to cackle into a flame.

"BECAUSE WE..." Raimondo considered upgrading his challenge to a fight. Don't do that!, his mind quietly reminded him, why. The angry soul slowly took a deep inhale. "Because we are worried, Kimiko. But if it not for us to know yet, you don't have to tell us." He spoke just like a gentleman.

"Appreciate the concern, Rai. See ya." Kimiko headed back to her room. The two boys followed her steps with their eyes, each one for a different reason. Omi watched with confusion. But Raimondo's vision was blurred with broken heartedness. For minutes on end they just stood there, wallowing in their own thoughts.

At last, one of the statues moved. He turned and faced the taller one. The taller one became aware of his surroundings and for the next few seconds there was a series of whispering. "I'll take the scaly freak Omi. And that's flat." "You will surely kill him Raimondo. I do not permit it." "Nah lil' man. Just screw him a bit. Confuse him." "Why? Besides, you are better with Kimiko than I am. And everyone knows that you li– " "Shut up you. Its because he has Kimiko defending him. Why is exactly what I wanna find out. But I mostly just wanna screw him." "Fine." sighed Omi "I'll keep Kimiko occupied. But if I do not make it, remember me please." The yellow monk walked slowly, every step bringing him closer to her room. The Brazil boy was not even concerned; he had a wise enemy to screw.

Omi's intrusion was not one bit to her liking. She had just linked herself to Chase's mind and was about to start a conversation. Hanging up was not her favorite thing to do, much less on the guy she loves. "What do you want, Omi?" she grumbled politely.

"Just hoping we could converse..." Kimiko revealed her eyes, and they threatened to pierce right through him. "...as civilized friends please!" The little boy shielded himself with his short arms, bracing for a girl-powered-whipping. The Fire Dragon raised her eyebrow and laughed at his pathetic attempt at self-protection against her. Omi peeked out from atop of his arm. Kimiko lowered her PDA and patted him on the noggin. "I'm not gonna hurt you. But you sure know a heck of a time to pay a visit."

"Was I interrupting something?" He tried to look into the screen

"Kind of." Kimiko pulled it away from his view, to her left.

"What is it that you are doing?" He crawled over to the device.

"Something." Again Kimiko pulled it away from his view, this time to her right.

"What is this something?" He proceeded to reach for it.

"If asking questions and nosing in my stuff is your opinion of a conversation, I'll tell you my opinion of civilized!" she growled in threat.

"I shall be quiet now." Omi sat back down in front of her, twiddling his thumbs. Silence hung dryly in the air, except for the beeps from the little gadget she was working with. Feeling uncomfortable and annoyed with his presence, Kimiko cocked her head up and groaned, "What is it that you want, Omi?!"

He stuttered, unsure of what to say. "Well, er...erm"

She, on the other hand, was a ticking time bomb. "Say it or leave it."

Unable to hold back his suspicions he blurted, "Do you like Chase Young?"

Kimiko's mind boggled. Her heart thumped hard. She squeezed her PDA in anxiety. She could feel her eyes were about to pop from their sockets in disbelief at the under-grown nosey parker. "How did you know about this." She finally whispered, more in fear than in anger.

"On the first day Chase woke up in the Xiaolin Temple, you were spending time in his room." He glanced up, watching the girl's reaction. "Then the next day, I kind of a , heh heh, noticed that you disappeared from out Uno game and so had Chase from the Temple wall. Then when he had to apologize to you that night, he kind of stayed behind looking at your curtain. Then today..." His voice trailed to nothing as he saw a being leaning on the window sill. Kimiko turned and gasped, in both happiness and embarrassment. The very guy they were talking about was right within earshot. "Then today what, little one?" His lips were twisted downwards at one corner, and twisted upwards at the other.

"Eh heh." Omi rubbed the back of his head. "And ,erm, today is... such A GREAT DAY! I WILL BE GOING FOR A WALK IN THE GARDEN NOW! BYE!" He tried to run out of the room but as he expected, a strong arm knocked him off his feet and picked him up by the back collar of his Xiaolin suit. He was dangling, and facing the most powerful evil being in the whole world.

"My question was not answered; therefore you are not going for a walk in the garden on this great day." The reptilian eyes threatened more than to pierce through him.

"Then today..." The Wudai Dragon of Water suddenly gained back his dignity. "Put me down Chase Young! Your threats do not frighten me! Hiya!" Omi kicked the hand that held him and landed on the ground in defense position.

"I did not threaten you little one, I simply asked you to continue speaking." Chase rolled his eyes at the boy's paranoid conclusion.

"Oh." The boy looked embarrassed. Kimiko stood up shaking her head with a smile on her face. Chase spared her a gaze, but turned his attention back to him just as fast. His and her eyes had the same questioning look, with a glint of demand. " Well today you both were very, how do you put it? Were very..."

"Ok. We understand." said Kimiko, sounding bored.

"Does anyone else know of this?" asked Chase.

"I do not think so." Omi changed his tone to one of sickening curiousity. "Does that mean you and Kimiko really are...?"

The two exchanged looks before saying in union, "Yes."

"Ooh! This is most fascinating!" The excited little boy clasped his hands together. But his expression changed very quickly. "But what would the other temple monks say of this? Or our friends?"

"Nothing." Chase simply stated.

"Because they are not even going to know about It." continued Kimiko.

"Unless we decide that they should be in the know." added Chase.

"Which means you are not to say a word." explained Kimiko.

"At all. If you do, well, you know what would happen." finished Chase.

Omi moved his head back and forth between them. It was quite freaky that they can finish each other's sentences without even looking at each other. He scratched his bald head and asked plainly, "I do not wish to be rude but, how did you do that?"

"I do not intend to burden you with such knowledge, little one." said Chase, barely amused, before growling, "Do you understand what would happen if the beans are spilled?"

"My insides will go out?" suggested Omi weakly.

"Ewww. Not to that extreme but, I guess you get the picture." replied Kimiko with a shiver at the thought of seeing Omi's insides.

"I am glad we understand each other." announced Chase, "Now please leave. I would like to be alone with Kimiko." the man turned to smile at his girl. Omi murmured an ominous 'yes' and left the scary couple in a hurry.

"Now, what were you saying to me Kimiko?" He asked as he picked her up, bridal style, and sat her down on his lap on her bed. He held her back with one hand and placed the other on her lap. She giggled at his gentle boldness and rested her head on his strong shoulder in reply. He raised one eyebrow in a questioning gesture. She put one hand on the center of his chest and looked up, no smile present on her face. She showed him her PDA and handed him an earphone, putting another in her ear. He took it and slipped it in his as it played her thoughts.

I'm afraid that Rai is not happy with anything that has to do with you.

He had just had a conversation with me half an hour ago. There was nothing positive in it but he seemed to enjoy it. In what sense is he not happy?

That I am standing up for you.

You what?

I have stood up for you.

For what exactly my dear? You know that I can definitely take care of myself.

They wanted to add more chores to your list. And Raimondo keeps talking about screwing up your life. Well he didn't really say that but he means to!

Hmmm. Times were friendlier in the past.

With that, he took the earphones off both of them and cupped her soft cheek. "But the present is a much lovelier time." The words touched her heart, but made her conscience jump up in alarm. Her eyes carefully observed his every move, cautious of his intentions.

He was no different; he knew she was on her guard. He didn't blame her for it. Slowly he bent down, to plant a gentle kiss on her cheek. She gasped. Her surprised eyes ones peered into gentle ones. They begged for her forgiveness again. She took his face in her petite palms. Now she knew she could trust him, and it is time for a reward. She brought his lips to hers. Their breath swirled on each other's skin. Contact was near when they suddenly brushed apart.

Chase pricked up his cat-sensitive ears. Attention to the outside, he whispered a sad apology and slid her onto her bed. Kimiko nodded and took her PDA into her hands, pretending he was not there. Just before he crawled out of the window she turned and watched through her yearning eyes. A soft sigh escaped through her disappointed lips.

Knock knock.

"Who's there?" Kimiko asked.

"Raimondo. Can I come in?" a well-known voice answered.

"Yeah. Sure." was her only reply. The boy was not sure if she was in a good mood or not, judging by her tone. A mix of happy and sad, it was. And why I wonder...

"You Ok?" He asked.

"So so." She rotated the sides of her hand up and down.

"Well I'm not gonna make it long." He looked to see if she was listening. The center of her black head was the only thing that faced him. "I'm sorry Kimiko. I don't know why you are on that guy's side but, if it suits you it suits you. It's not like I can change it."

Kimiko looked up with her eyebrow raised. "Are you really saying that?" She did not believe that Raimondo, the cocky bugger, would apologize at his own account.

"Yeah I am." He actually sounds sorry, she thought quietly. "And I was wondering if you would like to come to dinner."

"It's dinner already?" Kimiko looked at the sky. It was certainly time for the evening meal. The sky was dark and half the moon was visible over the temple roof.

"Well duh!" he dragged, "I mean, yeah it is."

The girl huffed the remark off her mind and followed her leader to the – hall? "Hey Raimondo? Why are we here and not...there?" The boy had disappeared into thin air, and the hall was so dark. There were objects, objects that were never in the enclosed area before. She walked in, feeling the mysterious forms. "Tables?" she bumped into something, crunk. "A chair?" Clink. "Glass?" Suddenly, a sound of rubber came over from above. Looking up, she got the fright of her life.

Blam! Lights came on full blast!

"SURPRISE!" At least a hundred voices rang in union. "Moonstone Locusts!" commanded a solo voice of a leader. Colourful streamers rolled out from the ceiling! Out of Party poppers sprang a rainbow rainfall. Confetti! Atop the neatly aligned tables were laid cakes, chicken wings, kebabs, chips, dumplings, fries, spring rolls, tarts, baby back ribs, egg rolls and all her favorites! At the two ends of the long line of tables were jugs and large bowls of punch and ice-cold water. To top it off, ice-cream in the center of the whole party!

"Wow." she gasped. A large red banner rolled out. Golden and shining like night stars were the words painted, 'Well done Kimiko! We are proud of You!'. And in smaller wordings, 'For bringing Chase Young to You.' There were light, delicate patterns on the edges. Artistic stuff! she thought, Makes me wonder who did it. She looked around but saw no sign of him.

Monks laughed and surrounded her. with her party mood brought in, she put the thought aside and decided to enjoy the party in her honor. Words and thanks phrases flew to her ears from Master Fung, Master Monk Guan and the other older monks around her. Clay pulled her to the buffet tables and offered her to take the first bite. "Oh my gosh!" she cried between the mouthful of barbeque rib. Just as she was about to swallow, loud dance music boomed from two huge black boxes. Raimondo was the DJ, and a good job he was doing. They were perfect party songs. Pop, Techno, Rock and Rap! Lights flashed on and off in different colours. "You guys make me wonder where you got these things from!" Kimiko yelled over the music. The boys laughed at her remark and the party started.

Meanwhile, Chase Young sat alone in the small dining hall. Sipping at his Lao Meng Long soup, it was the only warm thing he had. Music beats drummed in his ears, but joining the Xiaolin mob was one thing he was not going to do. Sure Kimiko will be there, but she is not going to be there. Everyone else will be swarming over her and his presence will just take away the celebration mood from her. She would not be able to focus on her friends or her Masters but only on him. Not that he would not like it, swooning over him in front of them would jeopardize everything. Master Monk Guan would have more than a thing or two if he found out!

"Master Monk Guan..." he murmured. That man has been nothing but weird around here. Usually he would leave me alone, but nO! He had came along and jabbered cryptic lines even I don't understand. He swallowed a gulp of the dark green liquid. An evil sensation settled in his cold mind, bringing the unbothered demon back into the scene. "But who cares about that, when you've got Her?" he breathed that word with a smirk. Yeah, that is all I need around here. Being here is something I didn't need, but she's an abundance more than worth it. She was different from the past ladies he had met, and ranked too high from Wuya. He spat. That witch is worse than this madhouse. At least for this while of my life I don't have to see that horrendous figurine.

He sighed again. His soup was finished. He stared at the empty china bowl. The empty china bowl stared back. "This conversation is not getting anywhere." He muttered. Washing the utensil well, he strolled to the shower room. The warm water flowed through his hair once again, replenishing his cold soul. It covered his entire body with its soothing touch. He let out a soft moan of peace. He stepped out, a towel around his waist and headed for his room. Putting on one of his undergarments and Heylin black pants, he laid his head on the pillow. Not as comfortable as his palace but he had to agree he did not need anything more than this. Putting his hands behind his head, he fell asleep.

Hours later, a small person crept into his room. She saw the man deep in his dreams and smiled. Pulling the blanket over his half-clothed body, she kissed him lightly on his lips. He stirred, but did not wake up. She then left as quickly as she came. But unknown to her, he had watched her go.