Yosh! 'Nother chapter of this story up. This could be the final chapter of this story. Hmmm, it all depends on how it flows really. I'm on chapter two of the other story...and boy is it good. *rubs hands together* What's that? You guys want a little piece of it? Wellllll toooo bad. You can't have any, unless someone convinces me otherwise. *laughs evilly*
Anywho~
Let the show begin.
Another Beginning
Part 7
Setsuna arrived at Konoka's dorm Monday morning, as promised two days ago. She was mostly expecting some kind of physical touching, so when the chocolate haired girl glomped her, she wasn't the least bit unprepared.
However, she wasn't prepared for Asuna.
Asuna, being the friend she was, skeptically swaggered up to the shorter girl. Ignoring the warning look Konoka was giving her, the red haired girl stared down at Setsuna, enjoying the height advantage she had over the swordswoman.
Slightly confused, Setsuna stared blankly up at Asuna, quirking her eyebrow when she figured out what the taller girl was attempting to do.
Coughing to get Asuna's attention, Setsuna purposefully placed her hand on Yunagi's hilt, signaling that if needed, she was ready to step to her challenge.
Nodding her head in approval, Asuna wrapped her arm around the stoic girl's neck, and lugged her inside the room.
"I like her, Konoka!" Asuna exclaimed, squeezing the startled warrior harder, as Konoka stared at the two with a fond smile.
"A-Asuna-san! Let me go! Please!" Setsuna coughed, futilely trying to get out of the death grip she was in.
"I'm not letting you go until you drop the honorific off my name and make me let you go!" Asuna laughed, rolling onto the floor, as the shorter girl continued to struggle against her.
Growling, Setsuna wriggled to get her hands free, grabbing and twisting her opponents shirt in her fists, as she barrel rolled their bodies.
"Oh, come on, Setsuna! Is this all you got?" Asuna jeered, flipping Setsuna onto her back with the bend of her knee.
"Asuna! Let me go!" Setsuna warned, kicking the red haired girl's legs out from underneath her, as she flipped their positions, and sat on Asuna as the victor of their battle.
Konoka laughed to herself, watching Asuna beg for mercy, as Setsuna started to bend her arm in what seemed to be a painful way.
You would think they were best friends if you didn't know any better, Konoka thought, happily watching someone who could possibly end up being her girlfriend, and her best friend help each other up off the floor.
"You're not half bad, Setsu." Asuna said, patting Setsuna on the back. "But, not as good as me."
Snorting, Setsuna punched the taller girl playfully in the arm, "Don't lie like that. Hey, do you want to train with me in the morning? You seem like you can keep up with my kendo skills."
"Yeah, I'm up for that! Oh, Konoka, sorry for leaving you out of everything like that." Asuna mumbled, sheepishly nodding in the brunette's general direction.
"No, it's alright. I'm just watching you two act like you've known each other for years." Konoka replied, twirling a silk lock of hair around her fingers.
"We should get going now. It's getting around that time. Oh, I heard Negi had something planned for spring break!" Asuna stretched, grabbing her bag off the couch, as Setsuna opened the door for Konoka.
Smiling at the hidden exchange of affection between her best friend and soon-to-be kendo instructor, Asuna dashed out of the door, challenging Setsuna to a race to the classroom, as Konoka giggled at the pair's competitive attitudes.
Months passed. The Kyoto trip over spring break ended just as quickly as it came. Over the course of the trip, some magical group had attempted to kidnap Konoka and use her magical powers for evil, but thanks to Setsuna being right by her side, the group didn't get their hands on Konoka.
However, that didn't stop the girl from questioning why those people had pursued her so intently, and eventually, the truth about her bloodline came out (along with the truth about Negi). Now, their days were spent honing their skills as partners and Magister Magi, preparing for the next threat to the safety of mankind.
Eventually, Setsuna's identity as the leader of the Mahora Guards became widespread, and Konoka's dad had seemed extremely impressed. He even offered her a place back home after she graduated from the school. Specifically, he was offering her his position as chief of the Shinmeiryu in Kyoto.
Setsuna and Asuna were daily wrestling buddies, and Konoka enjoyed being the audience of one in the mornings.
One thing that grew to bother the healer (also known as Konoka), was her relationship with Setsuna. Even after everything they had been through: sharing the pictures of their shared pasts, Setsuna finally telling Konoka about her past, and showing her wings, the swordswoman had yet to summon the courage to ask the girl out (even though everyone in class 3-A was aware and waiting for it).
To be honest, Konoka was growing a little impatient, as she was positive the stirrings in her heart weren't just physical attraction, but love as well.
Maybe, things will make a change for the better, perhaps for the worst (or maybe Asuna would knock some sense into the pint sized warrior)
We shall see.
"Where are we heading, Set-chan?" Konoka giggled, amazed by the childish excitement on Setsuna's face, as she felt a strong pair of arms lift her up.
Carrying her charge bridal style, Setsuna jumped onto a tree branch, charging forward with unparalleled speed. Grinning, Setsuna winked, "Yesterday, Negi-sensei said we should show our partner something special to us. You showed me the picture of us when we were little and the one of us over spring break, but today I'm showing you my special place. I have something special planned for us as well, which is why I couldn't come over yesterday."
Shrieking in delight, the princess clung to Setsuna's neck, as she noticed Setsuna slowing down considerably.
"What's going on?" Konoka asked, staring up at her guardian curiously, as the shorter girl set her down on a dirt trail.
Laughing mischievously, Setsuna backed away slowly, putting a finger to her lips, as she signaled for Konoka to stay put and be quiet.
Suspicious, but trusting Setsuna nonetheless, the healer remained rooted to the spot, feeling cold without her guardian nearby.
If I would've known she was taking me out later today, I could have dressed up a little better than this plain ol' uniform, Konoka thought glumly, noting that Setsuna had even dressed up a little in a pair of black and red Converse, dark jeans and a white, long sleeve v-neck.
She looks great, even though that's beyond simple. That shirt really hugs her curves- curves I never knew she had, but all together, it really compliments her figure. And, those jeans make her butt stick out a little, her mind whispered mischievously, causing Konoka to grin when Setsuna appeared again.
"Did I miss something?" the dark haired girl smiled, grabbing the brunette's hand, and walking down the dark path she had disappeared and reappeared from seconds ago.
Deciding it wasn't the best timing to spring such a perverted thought of the girl next to her, Konoka shook her head, gently squeezing Setsuna's hand in her's.
Shivering as light seemed to disappear completely, Konoka leaned closer into Setsuna's side, feeling very vulnerable at the moment.
This darkness must be getting to her, Setsuna mentally noted, reassuringly rubbing small circles onto the palm inclosed in her's.
Don't worry, we'll get through this soon.
I promise.
Taking a deep breath to still her pounding heart, Setsuna stopped walking, pulling Konoka to her side.
"We're here."
"Set-chan, what are you talk-"
"Shhh." Setsuna murmured softly, placing a finger on quivering lips.
Confused, and starting to grow a little impatient, Konoka glanced around, not surprised to find out that she couldn't see a thing.
But then-
A collection of green and yellow lights flickered on, pulsing in a simple rhythm, as the world seemed to illuminate around them.
Smiling when the girl beside her gasped softly, Setsuna glided forward and left Konoka standing there, as the fireflies began shining like little stars, and the scene finally made it's self clear to Konoka.
"So...this is your spot?" Konoka whispered in awe, taking in the wild flowers blooming around her, the rose bush, and finally the butterflies flapping their wings gently.
Blushing a little, Setsuna extended her finger, and to Konoka's amazement, a red spotted purple butterfly landed on Setsuna's hand. Hesitantly, Setsuna danced on her toes to Konoka, placing the butterfly in her friend's shaking hands.
"It's ours.And, don't be nervous, alright? It's just me." Setsuna chuckled, missing the odd look her princess shot at her while her back was turned.
Right, Setsuna. It's just you, the girl I like, Konoka mumbled mentally, curiously watching the butterfly crawl across her palm.
Meanwhile, Setsuna was carefully planning her next move, sending calculative glances at the heiress, who was gleefully playing with Heart.
"Kono-chan," Setsuna began, quickly grabbing Konoka's attention, "Let Heart-chan go and come with me. This isn't the only part I'm going to show you."
"Aww, alright." the brunette pouted, giggling a little that Setsuna had went and named a butterfly of all things, watching as her little friend flew off to some unknown location.
"Come." the warrior ordered, which was unlike her, not that Konoka minded, as she flew to Setsuna's side, snuggling back into her side.
Humming softly, Setsuna led Konoka down the dirt path across from them, feeling Konoka cling even closer to her.
This path is a little steep. That's why she's so close to me, Setsuna convinced herself, keeping herself far from her usual nervous mess.
Sliding on some dirt before hopping down, Setsuna grabbed Konoka by her waist, bringing the girl down to her level safely.
"Beautiful, isn't it?" Setsuna asked, jarring Konoka out of her thoughts, as she glanced up at her guardian's solemn expression.
Blushing a little, Konoka gazed into Setsuna's eyes, becoming lost in their depth.
"Yeah.." Konoka whispered, watching the moon and stars twinkle merrily in pools of Onyx.
Realizing what the taller girl was talking about, Setsuna blushed a dull pink, murmuring, "I-I-I was talking about the..lake."
She still isn't paying attention to the lake. I wonder why... I can tell she's nervous too. Does she sense something dangerous nearby? No, I would have sensed it before her, Setsuna thought, looping their hands together, as she led Konoka to a small rowboat she had managed to borrow for tonight.
Pleasantly surprised, Konoka allowed herself to be gently laid on one of the seats, beaming when Setsuna carefully took her own across from her.
Smiling sheepishly, Setsuna found the set of oars hidden in the bottom of the boat, and placed them in the rings on the edge; locking them there so they wouldn't fall into the water.
"I-I noticed some waterways back here a while ago." Setsuna began, pushing them away from the bank with a strong push with her hand, as she intently avoided the eyes of her beloved.
"I thought you would like to do something like this. I would've brought you here sooner, but with exams and everything being so close, I knew you would be busy.." she finished, rowing with strong and slow strokes, as she directed the small vessel for the waterfall.
Ahhhh, but divine intervention these days, always messing with our dear couple's lives.
Setsuna briefly glanced up, slightly confused when she saw Heart fluttering above, but right now she had more important things to deal with.
Like the fact the boat was being pushed by some invisible force towards a powerful current of black water she had never noticed before.
Giving the girl across from her an urgent look, Setsuna braced herself, taking a firm hold on the oars; as the boat became caught in the current, and the boat tipped, seeming to pause before diving down and going with the current.
The boat swerved and spun erratically, and Setsuna found that as much she tried to steer, she was just wasting her time. So, she grabbed onto her companion's hand, yelling, "I'm sorry, I didn't- AH! That's cold!"
Shivering, Setsuna damned whatever had compelled her to wear a white shirt, of all the colors!
And it's cold out. This is NOT going to be good- EEEK! Why the hell am I the only one getting wet here!
Twitching, Setsuna forced herself to relax, admiring how Konoka was screaming in delight, as the boat rocked and swayed.
Chuckling as another splash of water slapped her backside, Setsuna allowed herself a few minutes of watching her dear friend.
She looks so happy right now. Ah, I remember she told me she loved roller coasters a long time ago.
It was so simple back then. Without these...feelings.
Maybe I should tell her...but what if that jeopardizes our friendship?
Right, I shouldn't try for anything more. I have more than enough to be grateful for.
"Oh, Setsuna! This is so pretty! Are you sure you didn't plan this?" Konoka giggled, taking in her guardian's soaked form.
"Hmm?"'ing in response, Setsuna craned her neck, trying to gain any perception of her surrounding.
They were floating in a blue lagoon, trees growing out of the water in numerous places, shading the two girls from the radiant like of the moon shining above.
Fireflies flickered about, adding a more...romantic mood to the moment, and it only intensified when Setsuna looked over, catching the long stare Konoka was giving there.
"What? Is there something on my face?" Setsuna asked nervously, swiping a hand over her face for good measure, as the younger girl shook her head.
"No." Konoka answered simply, cradling her face in her hands, as she struggled to keep the feelings surging in her chest from leaping out.
In an instant, Setsuna's heart leapt to her throat, as she sprung up defensively when the chocolate haired princess stood, making the boat sway dangerously.
Gently gripping her shoulders to still her, Setsuna whispered, "Be careful. You could get..."
The older girl didn't bother to finish her sentence, taken back by the warmth and emotion burn in her Kono-chan's eyes. Her breath hitched oddly in her throat, as the moon's glow radiated off of Konoka's pale skin, as the healer stared at her even stranger.
I-I-I can't do this anymore, I think I need to... get it out now, Setsuna thought, hoping the taller girl couldn't hear her heart beat hammering inside her ribcage.
Closing her eyes, Setsuna suddenly became aware of how close they already were, and by instinct only, did her hands slide down to Konoka's hips.
Unconsciously, she leaned forward, praying to God all those advice columns she had looked into had given her enough instruction and advice to kiss this girl properly.
Smiling in realization as to what the heck was going on, Konoka allowed her eyes to flutter shut, as she looped her arms around the shorter girl's neck, bringing their lips closer. Inch. by. Inch.
Oh Setsuna. If only I had known standing up to stretch would make you do this. I would have done it so much sooner.
And finally, their lips met, sending sparks to their stomachs, as Konoka felt her knees buckle.
Queasily, Setsuna flicked her tongue across the taller girl's lower lip, trembling when she felt the girl grant her access.
Sensing her nervousness, Konoka reassuringly stroked Setsuna's neck, letting her know it was okay, and all she needed to do was to relax. Konoka pressed herself flush against Setsuna, sighing in a mixture of relief and pleasure, as the shorter girl tediously stroked her tongue.
Setsuna jumped a little when she felt Konoka tug on her lower lip, dragging her teeth on the swollen flesh, causing the warrior to let out a shaky groan. Slowly tangling her fingers in gossamer strands of black, Konoka noted how natural it felt, so calm and fueled by love and not lust. It felt good.
Blinking when Setsuna pulled back, who light headily stated something about lack of oxygen, as she struggled to catch her breath as well.
Fidgeting, Setsuna stared at their interlocked hands, mumbling something too soft for Konoka to catch.
Sighing, as she saw Konoka's quirked eyebrow, Setsuna restated her question.
"Are we a couple?"
Blushing a color that could rival Setsuna's trademark blush, Konoka nervously tapped her toes on the bow of the boat.
Anxiously looking into her guardian's brown eyes, Konoka replied- "I-I think. I mean, it's all up to-"
Crick
SPLASH
Gasping for air, Setsuna fought her way to the surface, laughing ecstatically along with Konoka once the girl found her way to the surface as well.
"I had nothing to lose." Setsuna chuckled, pointing out the fact that she was already soaked before they fell in.
Giggling, Konoka snuggled into her protector, as the warrior managed to get them onto dry land.
"Kono-chan." Setsuna whispered, looking extremely thoughtful at that moment, as she wrung her jacket out.
"Yes?"
"I'm happy that even after everything that happened when I left you, you still gave me another chance. You were my first friend, the first person to treat me like a person. I can't thank you enough for that, but I'm going to try by making you the happiest girl alive. But...I'm nervous I'll disappoint you or-"
"Shhh." Konoka replied gently, silencing the worried girl with a kiss, "You won't disappoint me, and I know we're going to be together forever, and you'll be my permanent partner. I believe in you. Now take me back to my room so I can get dry, if you know what I mean." Konoka finished, tracing her girlfriend's jawline, as she winked.
Suddenly, Setsuna swept her into her arms, her face unusually pale for just hearing a suggestive comment.
"As you wish, princess." Setsuna smirked, heart swelling in happiness, as Konoka shyly gazed up at her.
"Set-chan..?"
"Yes, Kono-chan?"
"I love you."
Sighing, Setsuna sadly gazed down at the girl in her arms, "I'm sorry to tell you this, but I think I love you more. Oh love, did you use a love potion on me? For I have never loved like this."
Rolling her eyes, Konoka giggled, gleefully swinging her legs, "Alright, Shakespeare. Shut up and kiss me."
"Anything for you."
Thank you for the second chance, Konoka. You won't regret it.
Alright. So, I more than likely am going to go back and add the Kyoto trip after testing is over. I wanted to get it officially done so I don't forget about it and end up never finishing it like some people do. I hope you liked it so far, because it was fun for me to write.
Don't worry, you shall get Kyoto arc...OR I SHALL NOT PASS...the Istep test. :3
Haha. Did you like my Lord of the Rings moment? Oh yesssss.
Anyways, I've got the name of the new story already. Who wants to know what it is? :D Man, I hope I'm killing you guys with this!
But remember to review, see you all soon!
