Hey! We're back with another edition of the Sailor Moon: Galaxy Stars series. I do not own the Sailor Moon series or any of the characters. Most of the fanon characters aren't even mine either (except Cain, Grace, some members of the Shichi'okamitai and Cammy).
As you all know, the story is starting to pick up. Mercury, Mars, Jupiter and Venus have gained their Eternal forms. The villain has been revealed. And seven mercenaries have shown up. One of which, Kotsu, has bit the dust last chapter. In addition, new characters have been introduced including Rei's half sister (non-canon, mind you), Cammy!
43 reviews (with 4 reviews counting from Mediaminer). My longest chapter (7) didn't get very many reviews. I'm a bit saddened but that will not stop me from continuing this story. I know I'll get more reviews as we move along.
Anyway, this is more or less, a break chapter. No action scenes here unfortunately.
Hey, heroes need their rest! Why can't the Sailor Senshi. :P
This chapter will cover Rei being visited by her political father and the dinner arranged by Cain. We'll see how that turns. Also, will Kiba meet Aoshi in some form? And Makoto will return back to the dojo to meet with Kotori.
Oh and make sure to check out the forum section for this story over at my forums: http(colon)/www(dot)fanfiction(dot)net/ft/50988/18109/1/
Make sure to replace the (colon) and (dot) with the actual punctuations (:) and (.). Send whatever questions, comments or reviews you wish to share with me. I'll be more than happy to respond. Cheap plug, yes I know.
Anyhow, as you also know, Pluto is no longer considered a planet according to the International Astronomical Union. Well, bollocks to that! Pluto will always considered the ninth planet of the solar system to me! And I doubt this will have any effect on the Sailor Moon canon or fanon for that matter. I know I won't be changing Setsuna's status in any of my Sailor Moon stories. So, bleh to you IAU :P
And now we move along with the story! Meanwhile, I'm off to get some cookies!
Enjoy!
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"One bite gives a hundred fold courage and a hundred fold power! These are special cookies!" - Chibi-Usa/Sailor Chibi Moon/Small Lady.
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"Rei-chan finally met her half sister, whom had not known her for her entire life. How could a father keep two sisters apart from each other for so long? How unforgivable! There must have been a reason but I see no reason to keep two sisters separate! Families should be united! Poor, Rei-chan and Cammy-chan. I hope they will get together more often. I hate seeing such sad looks on people's faces.
Recently, we had a run-in with the first member of the Shichi'okamitai! The poison summoner, Kotsu, tried to poison the entire elementary school we recently visited. But, me, Mars and Mercury were able to thwart his evil scheme! But, what's this about the pack leader meeting with the boy named Aoshi? And why didn't the poison affect that little boy? Rei-chan thinks he may not be what he seems.
Hopefully, there will be some way to figure out this mystery. Until then, we'll be ready! Those Shichi'okamitai can be anywhere! Oh, I have to go now! I've got some shopping with Mamo-chan! See you on the flip side!
This is Usagi and have a nice day.
:D"
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(Cue Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon theme Kirari Sailor Dream!)
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Sailor Moon Galaxy Stars, Lycan Arc
Recovery from the Shichi'okamitai! The Hino Sisters Meet Their Father!
Shinjuku District/Inuki Dojo & Residence/October 16, 2003/10:09 AM
It was another morning and another visit to the Inuki Dojo for the dedicated Makoto Kino. She had not come alone however. Minako and Artemis accompanied her to see Okami and Kotori.
Sitting on the floor and out of the fighter's circle, Minako kneeled down with Artemis in her arms. They were now spectators for another one of Makoto's practice sessions. She watched in awe as the brunette stood wearing her white dojo attire and stretching her arms out.
"Wow, I can't believe I'm going to be watching you practice with this combat master!" Minako squealed in excitement. Then, she had a slightly dumbfounded look on her face. "Um, say... What's his name again?"
"Okami-sensei. I thought I told you like ten times this past week," Makoto sighed, glancing over her shoulder. "You actually keep forgetting his name?"
"Humph, well geez, it's not like I'm a student of his. Besides, getting up early just to practice would be a drag for me."
Artemis spoke up. "Well, at least that way you would get your lazy butt out of bed more often or not. Why not take some classes with this Okami-sensei?"
"Huh? No way! This is more Mako-chan's thing. Besides, I've got my band to worry about," Minako smiled. "Oh and guess what, Mako-chan? Hitori, Phillipe and I will be doing another show but at a different convention center. Let's say we're redoing our event after what happened with that Lycan incident."
"That's good to know. I know I'll be there," Makoto nodded and faced her friend. "Speaking of Lycan, that meeting we had two nights ago."
"What about it?"
"The Shichi'okamitai. We're dealing with seven... Well, six of them now since one was recently defeated on Tuesday. I'm so glad Usagi-chan, Rei-chan and Ami-chan were able to save those kids from that poison. Minako-chan, we have to keep our guards up. No matter what."
Nodding her head in response, Minako assured her friend she would be on the look out. "I know. If just one Shichi'okamitai member gave those three trouble, we'll definitely have to look out. I shudder having to fight these things on my own."
"Don't worry about it, Mina," Artemis reassured the blonde-haired girl. "We'll be ready when the time comes."
"Right... I'm just a little worried of when these guys will pop up. I mean, that poison Lycan showed up out of random. They would be following our every move as if they know our true identities."
Makoto turned around and heard the door open up. "Yeah. That's what I'm worried about, too. But I'm surprised they aren't out attacking us for the past few days."
"They're lying and waiting. These Lycans are smart. No doubt about it. Ami-chan is already trying to find their hide-out as we speak."
"That's good to hear, Artemis. I hope she'll get back to us with an update. Knowing her, she would have already found it by now."
"We'll see, Mako-chan," Artemis informed the brunette. "They're more clever than most of the previous enemies we have faced."
"Oh! The door just opened!" Minako overheard a door being opened. "Looks like Okami-sensei is about to come!"
Makoto faced toward the other side of the room and watched as someone entered. But, it wasn't Okami. Rather, it was none other than Kotori. She was dressed in a dark blue tank top, matching color shorts and white tennis shoes. She was carrying over her right shoulder her workout bag and a pair of shades covering her eyes.
Both Makoto and Minako were surprised to see Kotori arriving since they were expecting Okami.
"Oh, Kino-san?" Kotori took off her shades.
Makoto smiled. "Well, you came here a little late but that's okay. I've been here since 9:30 and practicing on my own. Oh and look who I brought with me."
"HI!" Minako poked her head out and waved with a happy smile. "Good morning, Ayami-san!"
The dark-haired young woman smiled and waved to the blonde. "Oh, hi there, Aino-san. I'm surprised to see you here."
"What! And me miss out the chance to see you two spar? SHA! I want to see you two go at it!"
Makoto sweat dropped. "Yep, that's Minako-chan. She craves to watch competition. No matter who's fighting."
"Well, you're in for a treat," Kotori winked and set her gym bag down. "Minako-chan, you want some good competition? Heh, Kino-san and I are going to pick up where we left off. This time no draws between us."
"I came here to get the best of you, Ayami-san," Makoto grinned as she stepped into a Judo stance. "I'll come to show you I've been thinking about this day!"
Kotori took off her shoes, put on a pair of fighting gloves (no boxing mitts mind you) and stepped onto the fighting mat to stare down her friendly rival. Her amber eyes glaring deep into Makoto's green eyes. Before charging out to attack, the two young women gave each other a customary bow of respect.
Minako watched the two tomboys facing each other and giggled with excitement. "Oh boy! Now, this is going to kick butt! Go, Mako-chan! And... Um... Show me what you can do, Ayami-san!"
Artemis sighed and drooped his head while whispering under his breath. "Can't make up your mind?"
"What? I'm actually rooting for Mako-chan but I can't really pick a winner since I don't know what Ayami-san can do."
"Well, you're about to find out. There they go..." the white feline murmured silently.
"Oooo! Yeah! Go, Mako-chan!"
Kotori and Makoto charged directly at one another from both sides of the fighting circle. The first to throw out a strike was Makoto as she thrusted her right fist forward. Easily telegraphing the fist, Kotori sidestepped it and dropped down to leg sweep her opponent off her feet. The brunette jumped up to avoid being taken off her feet and back flipped.
Kotori took advantage of her rival (as she back flipped) and delivered an elbow shot to Makoto's abdomen. The force of the blow sent Makoto flying back and rolling across the mat.
"Wow, she's looking good against Mako-chan," Minako observed and kept her eyes on her friend.
Standing at the center of the fighting circle, Kotori jumped up and waited for the brunette to stand up. Makoto held her gut and watched Kotori waiting for her.
"Not bad... Catching me with a hit like that, but that's a mistake I won't make next time..."
Jumping back onto her feet, Makoto narrowed her eyes and assumed another fighting stance. She raced out toward Kotori and threw out a second punch. Just like before Kotori easily anticipated this. She side stepped Makoto and spun around behind Makoto. She took advantage of the brunette and went for an elbow shot to her rival's back.
Wham!
Not this time. Makoto twirled around and caught Kotori's fist using both hands and dropped down onto her back. She held Kotori in mid-air using her incredible upper body strength and slammed her right foot into the blue haired woman's chest while kicking her off. Makoto watched as Kotori was thrown back and landed near the edge of the mat. Wincing from her fall, Kotori rubbed her back and slowly got back to her feet.
"Wow, these are already familiar with each other even only after sparring with each other once before?" Minako blinked. "Wow, they're so evenly matched. I can't say who will win this."
Artemis nodded and observed the two female martial artists. "Me either. Mako-chan better watch herself."
The two women studied each other as neither of them was moving an inch. Then, both stood up at the same time. Makoto encircled Kotori and popped her neck.
"You've definitely been practicing before I got here. That's true dedication, Kino-san."
"What are you planning, Ayami-san?"
Just as both young women were about to make their next move, the door opened as another individual was about to enter and make their presence felt. Makoto and Kotori turned around to anticipate the arrival of Okami. However, much to their surprise, it was none other than Grace. The brown-haired woman arrived wearing a black tank top, black and yellow striped shorts and white tennis shoes. Her hair tied up into a ponytail and carrying her own gym bag.
She glanced over toward Makoto's direction and smiled. "Oh, Ayami-san and Kino-san. Nice to see you two. Am I interrupting anything?"
Minako whispered to Artemis. "Wow, who is this?"
"Who should I know?"
Makoto called over to Grace. "Oh, Grace! Good to see you here!"
"I decided to come by and see if you were here today. Guess it's my lucky. I mean, our lucky day," she smiled, dropping her gym bag down.
"Well, me and Kino-san were sparring a bit," Kotori confirmed, stepping off the fighting mat and kneeling down by her gym bag. She pulled out a cold water bottle and took a sip. "So, what brings you here?"
"Actually, I came and wanted to challenge Kino-san over there."
"Heh, wow, I'm really popular with you two, aren't I?" she sweat dropped.
Kotori winked to the brunette. "Look on the bright side. At least we acknowledge you."
Grace nodded and walked past Kotori. "If you don't mind, I'd like to take her on. I want to see what she can bring to the table." The woman said taking off her shoes and putting on her fighting gloves on. "I haven't gotten a good fight since beating up a bunch of hasslers that tried to attack my boss."
"How has work at Cain Corp been for you? Enjoying the role as body guard and chauffer?" Kotori asked.
"Eh, it's been peachy. The boss can be a little bothersome but hey at least I'm getting paid."
Makoto waited for Grace to step onto the mat and stretched out. She studied Grace as she did with Kotori to get an understanding of her opponent pre-match. "Whew, I just had a little spar with Kotori and now another top student of Okami-sensei wants to take me on? Man, this is going to be fun."
"Oh, hello there!" Minako called out to Grace.
The woman blinked and noticed Minako sitting in the corner. "Um, who are you?"
"Just a spectator and Mako-chan's friend! I hope you're tough enough to take her on!"
Grace closed her eyes and snickered. "Oh, don't worry. I'm definitely that tough enough to take your friend on!"
"Grace, I'm ready whenever you are," Makoto called out and stood waiting on the mat. "I'm waiting to see what Okami-sense has taught you!"
The woman kept a straight face and stepped onto the mat. She bowed her head and showed respect toward her opponent. Makoto did the same. Then, they assume fighting stances.
Kotori watched the two from the sidelines and took another sip from her water bottle. As she quenched her thirst, she leaned back on the wall. "You better watch it with Grace. She's not only experienced but has beaten me when I started taking lessons from Okami-sensei. She is quite the Amazon when it comes to hand to hand skill. Seven years of boxing, ten years of martial arts training and plenty of street fighting background. She's definitely a cream of the crop but then again Kino-san has her fair share in martial arts experience and grew up fighting on the streets. This will be good."
"Ready, Kino-san?"
The brunette nodded and took a stance. "Let's go!"
"Ding," Grace murmured as she raced forward.
Makoto anticipated the woman coming toward her and ran out to meet her head on. The first to implement a strike was Grace as she threw out a straight punch (relying on her boxing background). Makoto saw the punch coming and caught it. Grace threw out her other fist, which Makoto also caught. The two women relied on their upper body strength to push each other back.
It seemed like a stalemate but Makoto was gaining some ground on the woman.
"Wow, Mako-chan can't be beat!" Minako cheered on for her friend. "Go!"
Then, to Makoto's surprise, Grace dropped down onto her back and flipped Makoto right over. The brunette gracefully landed on her feet upon her landing. As she turned around, Grace sprang up to her feet and executed a spinning back kick. Makoto caught Grace's foot and pushed her back. Grace staggered back. Taking advantage of her stunned opponent, Makoto charged at the more experienced fighter and went for a straight kick.
Telegraphing her opponent's attack, Grace side stepped Makoto and dropped down. Before Makoto could react, Grace jumped up and nailed her in the chin with a palm strike. Makoto's head rocked back as she was knocked back. Grace grabbed the brunette by her right arm and executed a Judo throw takedown, which surprised even Makoto.
Minako's eyes widened in shock. "Whoa! Now, she's good!" Mako-chan sure has her hands full!
Landing on her back, Makoto grunted and slowly was getting up. However, Grace came down and pressed her feet down to hold Makoto's arms down. She then fell down on top of Makoto by pinning the girl's arms down with her hands and used her knees to hold the tomboy's legs down.
Grace smiled. "Well, what do you think?"
"Heh, looks like I've found my second rival," Makoto exchanged a grin. "Damn, she's a pretty strong girl herself! She has me down!"
Getting up from her feet, Grace stood up and reached out for Makoto to take her hand. The brunette was weary at first but looked her straight in the eye. Makoto reached out, pulled herself up and stood up.
"You're pretty good yourself, Kino-san."
"Well, you had me down and pinned. You definitely have an advantage over me," Makoto replied, wiping the sweat from her forehead.
"Ah, but we're not finished. I want to go for another," Grace pointed to the ring.
Kotori sighed. "I guess we won't get to settle our score, Kino-san. Grace gets to have all the fun." She winked to her friendly rival.
"Heh, sorry about this," Makoto shrugged. "But she asked for it." She picked up her water bottle and sipped another mouthful.
Minako once again commented to herself. "Two young women who actually are on par or are better than Mako-chan? I didn't think it was possible."
"It's very possible, Mina. Mako-chan is an excellent martial artist but we can't deny there are simply better female fighters out there. It's a small word," the white feline responded to the blonde.
"Oh, Mako-chan... Well, I know one thing for sure. Mako-chan is not upset. No way. She's enjoying the competition," Minako said. "She's always been a very competitive girl."
Grace and Makoto encircled each other as they prepared to go another round. Before the match could start, Grace tried psyching Makoto out by taking several steps forward and moving back. As both women grabbed each other's hands, they hooked it up and grappled. Grace took advantage with the leverage as she grabbed Makoto's arm and tried to execute another Judo throw takedown. Makoto saw this maneuver coming and wrapped her legs around Grace's waist. Makoto put an arm around Grace's neck and pulled her opponent down. As Makoto fell back, she held a firm grip on Grace on top of her.
Rolling over, Makoto was laying across Grace's back with her legs tightened around the waist.
Kotori observed the two females on the mat and nodded in approval. "Nice counter, Kino-san. Relying on some wrestling holds is not a bad way to counter your opponent's moves."
"Whoo hoo! I knew all of those wrestling shows we watch weekly would pay off!" Minako cheered on
Suddenly, just as Makoto maintained her hold on Grace, the older woman bridged herself up and dropped down to roll across the mat. Makoto grunted with the weight of her opponent crashing down her body. Despite that, like a pit bull, she maintained her hold. Grace repeated the process at least twice and finally forced Makoto to relinquish her hold.
Grace barely stood on her knees and started to pant. She glanced over at Makoto, whom was also getting on her knees. "Impressive... you're better than I thought."
Makoto grinned and curled herself up. "What do you think? Am I that good enough to stand toe to toe with you?"
"Yeah... You bet you are... You've really done your homework, Kino-san. You're just as good as Ayami-san and myself."
"Thanks, that means a lot hearing from you."
Kotori clapped her hands in approval. "Nice show, you two. Kino-san, I'm impressed that you would even pull that maneuver and hold onto Grace like that. You're like a pit bull!"
"Heh, well I wasn't just going to let go that easily!" Makoto chuckled, rubbing the back of her head.
Standing on her feet, Grace let out a deep sigh and stretched her arms. "Oh, yeah! Now, I think I'm in the kick boxing mood! Kino-san, you ready?"
Taken back by surprise, the brunette sweat dropped. "Um... Right now? But I barely got enough rest!"
"Hey, if you want to be one of Okami-sensei's top students, you're going to have to keep going until you reach your limits!"
Minako was flabbergasted. "Wow, she's hardcore. Mako-chan just might be in trouble."
"I don't think so, Aino-san," Kotori overheard the blonde girl commenting. "Your friend doesn't seem at all to be showing fatigue. Sure, she might be a little winded but no big deal. She can keep going."
"But, how do you know?"
"Trust me, Aino-san, I know," the blue-haired tomboy winked.
Grace started things off as she charged forward and jumped forward to catch Makoto off guard. Going for an airborne attack, Grace did a large circular motion with both feet in succession. The move she executed was a butterfly kick. The first kick caught Makoto in the chin. Then, the second shot nailed the brunette under that same chin. Makoto cried out as she was thrown back and fell onto her back. Gracefully landing on her feet, Grace landed and ran out at the fallen brunette.
"Crap..." Makoto grimaced as she slowly sat up.
"This is it, Kino-san!"
"Mako-chan!" Minako cried out.
"Move, Kino-san..." Kotori whispered with her eyes narrowing.
As Grace jumped up, she came down for a double stomp. Once she came nearer, Makoto gained her second wind and rolled to the side.
Bam!
Grace's bare feet hit the mat and narrowly missed Makoto by the last second. Seizing the opportunity, Makoto howled out as she jumped up and executed a middle reverse roundhouse kick to Grace's gut. The heel was used as the striking tool as it was driven straight into Grace's abdomen.
The blow knocked Grace off her feet and forced her to fall onto her back. Makoto landed onto both her feet and hands.
"YAY! You did it, Mako-chan!" Minako jumped up and waved a pair of Japanese fans.
"It's not over yet, Mina," Artemis whispered.
As she slowly approached the fallen Grace, Makoto clenched her fists and raised her right hand to deliver a strike. Grace responded to this aggressive display, jumped to her feet and attempted an elbow strike. Makoto saw this coming, caught the elbow and grabbed Grace's arm.
"Now, it's my turn! HA!" Makoto yelled out as she executed her own Judo takedown and tossed Grace overhead.
With her back slamming the mat, Grace released a large gasp of air and remained laying on his back. Makoto was standing on her feet and panted.
"Ha... I took you down..." she smiled. "How's that, Grace?"
"Not... bad..." the woman responded.
Reaching down with her hand, Makoto offered to help Grace up to her feet. She gladly accepted, grabbed Makoto's and stood up.
"That wasn't that bad of a spar, Grace. You're good. You and Ayami-san sure are my best opponents I've ever had."
"Likewise," the woman smirked and walked over to pick up her water bottle.
Kotori rushed over and pat Makoto across her back. "Now, that was a match! I don't know a lot of people who could stand their ground with Grace in a spar besides Okami-sensei but I knew you could do it!"
"So, who won?" Minako asked from out of her corner. "It seemed like a see-saw match to me until the end. But then, Grace had her pinned down from the early start."
"I'll concede this match to Kino-san," Grace admitted. "She proved to be at least on par with me."
Makoto was touched by this act of sportsmanship and smiled. "Um... thanks, Grace. I don't know what..."
"Don't say anything. You earned that win. Besides, I'm kind of rusty from these spar matches. Most of the punks I've beaten down for my boss are chump change compared to you two." She set her water bottle down. "While we're here, what do you say we hang out and chat a bit? By the way, Aino-san, you're more than welcome to join us."
"Oh, well, I just didn't want to bump in and feel like I am intruding," Minako waved her hands out. "So..."
"It's cool, Aino-san. Come and join us!" Kotori smiled and offered her a sitting spot. "Just because you're not a student of Okami-sensei, doesn't mean we'll neglect those who don't wish to take part in active competition."
"Oh, you guys are SO cool!" the blonde giggled, racing over toward them with Artemis in her arms.
Makoto kneeled down and leaned back on the wall next to Kotori. "Whew, I need a break after all of that."
As Grace kneeled down, she noticed that her com-link was hanging out. She gasped and pushed it inside her gym bag and turned. "That was a nice spar, Kino-san. I should watch you and Kotori sometime!"
"You just missed it, Grace," Minako said.
"That sucks. I have to make sure to come a little earlier," Grace sighed and then reminded herself what she had set out to do. "By the way, Kino-san. I've got a question for you."
"What's that?"
"Have you ever had any close encounters with the Sailor Senshi? Anyone of them?"
As soon as she posed this question, Makoto uttered a tiny gasp. She glanced over to Minako as both girls exchanged slightly worried expressions. Even Kotori was taken back by this and kept her eye on Makoto.
"Kino-san? Does she know?"
"Crap, what does she know about us? I doubt she and her boss know who we are," Makoto thought, her eyes suspiciously eyed Grace.
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Juuban District/Hikawa Shrine/12:06 PM
Back at the holy Shinto shrine, the beautiful dark-haired Miko was seen sweeping near the steps. She couldn't get her half sister off her mind and sighed deeply. It was only two days ago.
Between that and the Shichi'okamitai, she was unaware of what to do.
As she swept, she thought of her sister and the new Lycan enemy. Back and forth.
"Cammy-chan, I'm glad you decided to give me a call last night. After school, you'll be meeting me here. Good thing I gave you the directions to Hikawa Shrine. But I wonder how you confronted father. That man... He hasn't even had the nerve to show himself here. If I ever see him..."
Suddenly, she heard footsteps walking up the stairs leading to the temple. Rei overheard these steps and looked down to find a familiar dark-haired girl walking up.
"Cammy-chan...? But, shouldn't she be at school?"
"No, remember it was attacked two days ago? It's only reasonable they give us this week off so repairs could be done to the damage made by that monster."
Then, as her smile widened, it quickly turned into a frown as she recognized the older man dressed in his business suit. She dropped her broom and waited for the two with arms crossed.
"Cammy-chan, you came! And speak of the devil... He's here!"
"Rei! Hey, I came just as I said but... Um, well... He was worried about us after the school attack," Cammy called out until she drooped her head. "I told him about you and he..."
Hiroko put his hand in front of his younger daughter to silence her. In the man's right hand was a box gift wrapped. No doubt it was a sort of apology gift as the man hoped to apologize to his older daughter.
"Well, it's been a long time father. Too long if you ask me," Rei said rather coldly with her arms crossed. She gave him no hint of compassion. "So you decided to show up with Cammy-chan?"
"Yes, look... Rei, I don't want us to go on like this. If you will listen to me, I wish to start over. Since you two have recently met each other..."
"No, father. Why didn't you tell me I had a half sister? You could have easily gave me a phone call and told me that I have a younger sister. That is all. Not too difficult."
"I did send you a letter! I swear I did, Rei!"
"Oh yeah...?" she raised an eyebrow. "Gee, I don't remember getting as so much from a single, damn letter. Not ONE!"
"The mail... They must have lost it somehow. You know how it can be..."
"Huh-uh. Sure, I do. I've lost some really important letters that I wanted to send you, too. Gee, but guess what? I don't remember sending you any since I don't remember you sending me any either! The way I see it, it's an even game!" Rei scowled, balling up her right hand. "Cammy-chan is my blood sister! Even if she was born from a different mother!"
"Um, may I have a say in this?" Cammy cleared her throat and stepped between them. "Whoa! Dad, look, what you did was not cool for not telling me about Rei! I had every right to know I had a sister! The way I see it I'm equally as pissed as she is!" She raised her voice and stood up to her father.
The Miko was taken back by this aggressive nature of Cammy. "Wow, no doubt about it. She has the Hino flame in her. She is definitely my sister."
"Now, I didn't come here to start a war but listen to me, dad! No matter what you say I have any right to see Rei as she rightfully should be a guardian of mine!"
"Look... Girls, I'm sorry for putting you through this..." the older man felt humbled and backed away from their fiery gazes. "But, please, I wish to get you girls to get closer together but if you will in return as my daughters... I want to show my gratitude. I want us together again as a family. I'm arranging for me to stay here in Tokyo. Please, if you could just give me this chance... Rei, this gift I give to you... Inside, you will find a gorgeous red dress... Because I wish to invite you to come to dinner with me at the Sea Dragon. You and Cammy both..."
Rei raised an eyebrow and narrowed her eyes. "And what's the catch? You're not pulling my string here?"
"No, it's a simple get together with your father. That is all... I'll even humble myself if I have to but I do not wish to lower myself to do so..."
"Well, what do you think, Cammy-chan?" Rei asked her half sister. "Should we?"
The younger Hino child thought this through and tapped her right foot. She gave her half sister and father a glare until she came to her decision. "Well, as much as I hate my father keeping our kinship a secret, I think we should go for this dinner. Even for one night. He is our biological father."
"Ah, I knew you would see it my way, Cammy-chan. Rei, what do..."
"On one condition!" Cammy stopped her father abruptly. "Not so fast!" She put her hands on her hips and appeared commanding at the moment. "The condition is this: I can come and spend time with my sister WITHOUT you interfering. You hear that? Don't even think about butting in and trying to break me apart from my sister."
The older man had hoped it would never come down to this. Sighing deeply, he gave into his younger daughter's request. "As you wish, for only a get together for one night, Cammy-chan."
"That's more like it. Besides, me and Rei-chan have a lot of catching up to do," Cammy looked up at her sister and winked.
Rei was unsure about the decision her younger sister made and was going to speak up until Cammy shook her hand. "Wha..? But..."
"Dad, I'll be spending time here with Rei. So, you can just give her the present and you could leave us now?" Cammy frowned and gently snatched the gift wrap box from out of his hands. "I'll meet with you later, father. Better yet I'll meet you back to the mansion."
"Fine. You two do have some catching up to do," Hiroko sighed and walked down the steps. The, he stopped and glanced back at the girls. More specifically his older daughter. "Rei, I hope we'll one day be reunited as a family and that you drop your bitterness toward me. Your father... It pains me to see you treat me like a stranger."
"Well, I won't forget the day you left me here and broke your promise to pick me up again. I've waited here since I was six years old. Cammy wasn't even born by then! Fourteen years. Besides visiting the shrine on a few occasions in a few years and inviting me to dinner to my birthday, you haven't had 'time' to spend with your first daughter because your 'work' got in the way. Now, you're going to neglect your second daughter the same way," Rei spoke with bitterness. Her eyes were icy and sharp like daggers toward the older man. "Quite frankly you're just Senator Hino in my view. My real father left me fourteen years ago."
Upon hearing this, Hiroko let it all sink in and walked down the steps a defeated man. His daughter had basically taken a dagger and stabbed him right in the heart.
Rei watched the pitiful man walk down the stairs with her arms crossed.
"Rei, why not open the present he gave you?" Cammy tugged on her sister's robe. "I'm sure you'll like it when he got you."
"Well, I suppose it doesn't hurt to see what he got for me," the Miko sighed, ripping the gift wrapping off and opening the box. Her eyes became unglued as she pulled out a black burnout velvet dress. Not only was it absolutely stunning but also its elegance was rich. It had luscious velvet with an all-over floral burnout pattern. A slight iridescent purple shimmer adds another dimension to its appeal. It has a flattening sleeveless style with a bateau neckline, empire waist and back zip.
"So, what do you think?" Cammy asked. "Do you like it?"
Rei was speechless. "I... I don't know what to say. It's gorgeous. Simply gorgeous but... from father?"
"Yeah, he's going out to find me a dress, too. So, what do you want to do?"
"Ah, well..." Rei looked around and folded the dress up to put back into the box. "Well, I could show you around the shrine. Would you like that?"
"Whatever," she shrugged and put her hands behind her head. "I might as well take the grand tour around this joint."
"'Joint'? You call this a joint? This is a sacred Shinto shrine!"
"Eh, I know. My mom used to be a Miko. I basically know what they do and how the Shinto religion works. But a tour would do just fine while we still have time."
Nodding her head, Rei walked down the shrine with Cammy following her. "Well, over there..." This is going to take some time for us to get know each other. But, I know Cammy and I will get along somehow. It's what she wants. On the other hand, I can't speak for father..."
Standing outside of Hikawa Shrine, Hiroko deeply let out a sigh of relief. He had managed to get his older daughter to agree to come to the dinner at the Sea Dragon. He pulled out the Com-link from out of his pocket and placed it over his right ear.
He muttered through the device to send a message to the owner of Cain Corps. "Hiroko here. She's agreed to come to the Sea Dragon, Cain. You've got what you wanted."
Cain's voice was heard through the frequency. "Good. I'm sure she loved the dress you gave her. I simply cannot wait to meet with your daughter. See you tomorrow night, Hiroko."
Turning off his Com-link, the older man sighed. "Rei, what kind of trouble have you gotten yourself into? Getting involved with the Sailor Senshi..."
xxxxx
Juuban Heights Apartment Complex/Room #214/3:06 PM
As she leaned back on the couch, Minako stretched her arms and legs out while yawning. Artemis hopped on top of her lap and curled himself up to rest.
"Geez, can you believe her? Asking us those questions about us! I mean what did she want to know?" Minako wondered while stretching her feet out.
Makoto poured herself a tall glass of ice, cold lemonade. "I don't know but she was a little too suspicious if you ask me. Grace, I don't think is a bad girl but she is associated with that guy from Cain Corp. I heard he doesn't like us very much... I mean when we're the Sailor Senshi that is."
"I knew there would be some anti-Senshi folks but I think she was getting too personal with our business. Good thing she doesn't know we're the Senshi!"
"As long as you keep your mouth shut, Mina," Artemis muttered.
"Heh, right! But, c'mon, Mako-chan! You even gave her your cell phone number!"
Makoto sipped her lemonade and set the glass down. "And? I don't see anything wrong with that. She and Ayami-san are good people."
"Well, I personally like Kotori. She's cool but Grace is a shady character. I don't even know what she's thinking."
"We'll see but I don't see her as a problem. If anything, she'll probably confront her boss and tell him she doesn't want to spy on us anymore. Then again, if problems continue to persist and gets TOO personal, then I'll confront her otherwise."
"I think you should confront her as Sailor Jupiter. Let's see how she likes it!"
"We'll see but I don't see any reason to do that. We'll be fine."
Minako shrugged. "Eh, whatever you say but I don't trust her. What you think, Artemis?"
"I can't argue with you there, Mina. Mako-chan, please be careful."
Nodding her head in response, Makoto drank her lemonade down and set the glass down again. "Right, I got it. Ah, I better give Usagi-chan a call!"
Minako leaned back on the couch as she watched Makoto pick up the telephone. She picked Artemis up and grinned. "I say we keep an eye on that Grace? Hmmm, what do you say, Arty-poo?"
"I think you need something other than your band to keep you preoccupied," the white feline drooped his head.
xxxxx
Elsewhere in Shinjuku/Shinjuku Central Park/4:05 PM
Hiding in their posts in Shinjuku Central Park, two members of the Shichi'okamitai watched every person walking by and taking a stroll through the public park.
Toboe was sitting on a tree branch and was lying sprawled with a relaxed look on his face. He took a sip from his sake cup and exhaled. "Hoo! Now, this is what I call a relaxing job. Nothing much going here. I can drink all day and not have a care in the world."
"You had better get serious, Toboe," Hige emerged from out of the brushes of another tree. "You know why we're here for. That kid Kiba told us about."
"Oh, that little cutie?" Toboe smiled and blushed. "The one who was seen with those meddlesome, skirt-wearing skanks?"
"The Sailor Senshi? Yes, that's right. Now, Toboe, you had better not take them lightly. Kotsu learned the hard way," Hige reminded his pack brother.
"Ooo, don't worry about me! I'll have their heads before they know what hit them!"
"I'm telling you this is getting bothersome. Kiba actually wants us to keep an eye out from here? There are too many children and none of them fit the same scent that boy carried. Remember, he is not like these humans."
Toboe seemed interested. "You think he maybe a creature like us? That would be splendid! We can have him replace Kotsu!"
"Let's not be too sure. We simply have to keep an eye on the boy without being seen and then tell Kiba where he is. So far..." Hige suddenly sniffed the air and picked up on a scent. "Wait, I'm picking up something."
"What is it? Is it him? That boy...?"
"I'm not sure but..." Hige gasped as he looked down to find Aoshi walking down the street with Yui. They were dressed in casual clothes. The Lycan spotted Aoshi and traced his scent. "There! I see him!"
"Is that him?" Toboe looked out with a big smile on his face. His eyes were teary and awe struck. "He's SO adorable! I just could hug him!"
"Sssh! You idiot! You'll give us away if you keep going into an outburst like that!" Hige hissed, threatening to slash Toboe with his claws. "We finally found him but I suggest we follow him without getting seen. If he is like us, then he'll trace us. Toboe, you keep an eye on them. I'll go tell Kiba about this."
"Me? But are you sure you can depend on me?" Toboe grinned and gave an innocent look. "Hmmm?"
"Better than nothing I suppose. Now, hurry up and catch up with them!"
With that, Hige vanished out from his seated spot. Toboe kept his eyes on Aoshi and Yui.
"My, my, he's just so cute! I knew he'd make the perfect replacement for Kotsu! I do hope Kiba even considers recruiting him to our side! Since, he is... one of us." The androgynous Lycan giggled. "But, I keep stay stealthy until then."
As he said that, he vanished from his spot and moved out to follow the two children without becoming an obvious suspect. He hopped out from tree to tree with rapid movement to stay on pace with them.
xxxxx
Disclosed Underground Lair/6:07 PM
Returning back to the underground quarters, Hige had let Kiba know about the sightings of Aoshi. The pack leader listened as he was seated in his chair. His eyes fixed on the monitor screen with surveillance footage of Aoshi on screen.
"And as you can see on the monitor screen that boy is the one you're looking for..."
"I see," Kiba murmured as his eyes stared at the monitor. "So, this is the son of the man I seek. Hum, what a better way to get back at him than by recruiting his boy to my pack."
"So, what are you going to do, Kiba?" Tsume's shadowy presence asked from out of a dark corner.
"Simple. I will be meeting the boy. Tomorrow night. It'll be a night worth remembering."
"Having a date with a kid, are we? Heh, Kiba, I didn't know you were like 'that'," Tsume snickered. "Just kidding, kidding! It was a joke!"
"I can certainly take a joke but make no mistake he will be one with us," Kiba declared, sitting up from his seat. His hands quivered with sheer excitement. "I am looking forward to this."
xxxxx
East Shinjuku/Sea Dragon Restaurant/October 17, 2003/7:00 PM
The next day passes on.
It was already evening over the city of Tokyo.
Within the Shinjuku District, the Sea Dragon cuisine restaurant. It was the most elaborate and expensive restaurant in Tokyo. It was a place where the wealthiest Japanese people, well known politicians and famous people.
Tonight, the Miko would meet with her father and her younger sister for a get together (if only for one night).
Standing outside the front was Hiroko (dressed in a black suit, pants and shoes). Cammy stood beside him wearing a beautiful red dress much to her dismay and a pink rose on her hair. The pre-teen tapped her foot and groaned in annoyance.
"Did I have to wear this, dad? You know how much I hate wearing dresses."
"Cammy-chan, you look beautiful. Don't down your own beauty."
"There she is!" Cammy pointed out.
Hiroko looked ahead to find his older daughter walking through the crowds. A smile crossed his face as she walked down wearing the dress he had gotten her. The Miko looked absolutely gorgeous. Her hair was straightened down. A black leather purse hung over her right shoulder. Rei wore black high heels while stepping forward with such elegance and maturity.
Men from the crowds observed the young woman and were mesmerized by her presence.
"Rei..." Hiroko muttered, watching his daughter approach him.
"Sister! Over here!" Cammy waved out to the woman.
"Oh, Cammy-chan!" Rei called out, walking forward and kneeling down to embrace the girl. "You look so adorable!"
"Humph, I hate wearing dresses. Yuck!" Cammy gagged.
Facing her father, Rei frowned and took Cammy by her hand. "Well, I'm here just as I promised, father. Now, we can get this over with. I came here since Cammy-chan asked me to."
"Let's just put aside all grudges we may have for each other and enjoy this evening," Hiroko said, opening the front door for the two girls. "Ladies first."
"Well, thank you, father. How 'generous' of you," the Miko replied, leading Cammy into the restaurant.
Hiroko smiled and walked inside. Everything was going according to his plans. He would at last spend one good evening with his two daughters without any problems.
Then, he had just remembered: Cain would be coming by a little later.
xxxxx
Later, an hour later, the Hino family were settled and sitting at a booth. Hiroko had hoped to get a good and peaceful conversation from his older daughter but to no avail. Rei spent most of her time talking with Cammy and drinking a glass of water.
"Rei... I know it's hard to look me at the eye but you could at least speak to me a little more," the older man spoke up, hoping to start a conversation.
"I've got nothing really much to say. No offense but at least Cammy-chan starts up more interesting topics. How about something that doesn't involve your political work?"
"Well... I stopped by to pay respects to your mother."
"I see. I stop by and pay respects to my mother every week. Funny how the daughter stops by to give a little prayer to her mother than the faithful husband of hers."
"But I do pray for your mother while I am working..."
"Oh, I believe you. I'm not calling you a liar but I'm never there to see you often," she scoffed, holding her glass up. "You do realize I'm the head Miko of Hikawa Shrine."
"Yes and congratulations on your position," Hiroko raised his wine glass and hoped to get a toast from his daughter.
Rei sighed. "My grandfather stepped down and retired. It was only a matter of time before I would take his place."
"Yeah and she showed me around the shrine. It was really cool but too bad I didn't get to meet grandfather. Where's he been, Rei?"
"He's been out on the town lately and he just got back from his vacation. He's really enjoying his retirement."
"That's nice to know. I'm glad he's done well," Hiroko smiled as he took another sip from his wine glass.
Just then, as he looked the reflection of the glass, he spotted Cain's presence standing behind him. Hiroko turned around and found the blue-eyed Caucasian. He stood up from his seat and faced the founder of Cain Corp.
"Oh, Mr. Bearer?" Hiroko said, catching himself by surprise.
Rei raised an eyebrow and scoffed. "Dad? What's going on here?" She was already becoming too suspicious looking toward Cain.
"Well, isn't this a pleasant evening, Hiroko?" Cain grinned, shaking the older man's hand. He glanced toward Rei and Cammy. The presence of Rei's elegant and exotic appearance attracted the Cain Corp founder.
"And these must be your daughters? The older one I assume is the head priestess of Hikawa Shrine of the Juuban District?" Cain smiled, pacing toward Rei. "You must be Rei Hino. Yes?"
The Miko crossed her arms and sipped her water glass. "Who wants to know?"
"Well, young lady. You may know me as the founder of Cain Corp. I am Mr. Bearer..." the man kneeled down and took the girl's hand. Planting a kiss on her hand, he flashed a grin. "But you may call me Cain."
"Uh huh. Well, aren't you the charmer?" Rei was not the least impressed. "Oh and I already know you, Mr. Bearer. Or should I say, Cain? Your company tried to take down Hikawa Shrine in order to build another facility. Am I right?"
"That was all in the past. Let by gones be 'by gones', Ms. Hino."
"Dad, did you have this arranged somehow?" Rei glared toward her father. "Well, did you?"
"I don't know what you're talking about. I'm surprised to see him here."
"Well it can't be a coincidence. Don't lie to me dad!"
Cammy watched her sister standing up and kept to herself. "Hoo boy..." If this were true, I'd hate to be dad now.
"Come now, Rei. I only came here by chance. As soon as I recognized your father, I came by to see him. But, it appears I'm a little luckier than I bargained."
"Oh, is that right, Cain?" the Miko evilly smirked and walked passed the owner. She ignored him and focused on Hiroko. If there were words to describe Rei, those would be greatly agitated and disappointed.
"Rei, please hear me out! I had nothing to do with this!"
"Yeah and what's your next excuse? You going to tell me I should abandon my shrine duties and become a heartless politician like yourself?"
Cain sat down on a seat and took the young woman by her hand. "Quite a temper you have there, young lady but do please calm down. You have my word that your father had nothing to do with this. I came here to ask you a question that I think you may have an answer to."
"What question is that?" she gazed at him with annoyance.
"Well, ever since that attack at the shrine, there were sightings of the Sailor Senshi battling a monster. You were caught up in the middle of it? Were you not?"
Rei uttered a small gasp. "Yeah, the Senshi did save me..."
"But not the shrine?"
"My life was far more important than the shrine. The Senshi destroyed that monster."
"Are you in any way closely associated with them? In other words, do you know them personally?"
Rei did not where this conversation was leading and picked up her purse. "Look, whatever business I have with the Senshi is my own. You can say I'm just a friend of theirs but you have no business to know more than you should. So, if you'll excuse me..."
"Hold on, young lady. I'm not finished yet!" Cain called out as he grabbed Rei by the arm.
"Let me go, you asshole!" Rei screamed as she retaliated by delivering a right hand slap across his face.
WHAP!
Cain reeled back from the girl's strong hand and felt a red hand welt on his right cheek. Nearly everyone noticed the commotion and gasped. Cammy jumped out of her seat and cheered for her older sister.
"Whoo! You go, girl!" Cammy raised her left fist overhead.
Rei scoffed and walked away from the Cain Corp owner. Standing a few feet from her father, she angrily glared at him. "And you! I don't want to see you again! Now you remember that condition Cammy-chan made? She can now visit me anytime of her choosing and you cannot interfere! And don't think I don't know you were behind this man coming here! It was supposed to be us as a family!"
"Rei... Please, try to control yourself..."
"Oh, I'm just fine! But you need to learn to show a little gratitude for your daughters! Now, back off!" the fiery girl snapped, walking past the older man. She stopped and glanced over to Cammy. "Guess we'll be seeing each other again, Cammy-chan. Make sure and call me sometime. You're more than welcome to come by anytime." With a wink, Rei walked out toward the front door.
Standing back up, Cain held his welted cheek. Rather than frown, a crafty smile etched on the man's chagrin. "Well, well, she's a feisty one."
Hiroko bowed his head to Cain and apologized. "I'm so sorry for this, Cain. My daughter can be very temperamental. I didn't think she would be capable of that. I mean, you owner of Cain Corp."
"That's quite all right. I've received my fair share of slaps from women. I guess my charm is too much for them to resist."
"Again I apologize."
"There's no need. I can still walk with pride."
Cammy sipped from her water glass and slinked under the table. "Heh serves that cocky bastard right. My sister isn't afraid to lay the smack down on even company owners. She's definitely someone I can look up to!"
"So, what are you going to do, Mr. Bearer?"
As he fixed his tie, Cain walked down the aisle. "Don't worry about me, Hiroko. I have some other business to attend to. There are some resources I need to collect. As you know, I am a very busy man. Good evening to you and your daughters. We'll be seeing each other again."
"Yes, we shall," Hiroko sighed as he sat down and rubbed his temples. "Oh, Rei, how could you embarrass me and Mr. Bearer like that? You truly live up to having that infamous Hino temper." And if Cammy wasn't enough.
xxxxx
Walking out of the restaurant, Rei tried to keep to herself while passing by the crowds of people. Inside, she was fuming and wants to blow off all of that steam.
"Ooo, the nerve of those men! Trying to win me over by telling them about us!" Rei scoffed and leaned against a pole. She let out a deep sigh and relaxed. "Oh, there I go again. I shouldn't let my temper get the best of me but that man once again broke his promise. It was supposed to be a family dinner as he told me! Bah, what a load of crap! Ugh!"
"Having a bit of problems, Rei-chan?" a familiar voice called out.
As the Miko turned she saw Haruka and Michiru standing behind her. The one who had spoken out was the turquoise-haired young woman.
"Oh, Haruka-san! Michiru-san! What a surprise. What are you two doing here?"
"Well, we come to have dinner together here. At least me and Haruka are anyway," Michiru forcibly giggled. "I kind of forced her to come."
"Yeah but I can't argue against what she wants unfortunately," Haruka chuckled. "So, what brings you here? You seemed pretty pissed."
"Well, yeah! I just had such a wonderful time with daddy-dearest and my younger sister!" Rei rolled her eyes. "My father promised it would be a 'get together' just as a family but then an uninvited guest came. You know that owner of Cain Corp? Cain Bearer?"
"Yeah, we heard about that guy. I hear he's a real creep," Haruka nodded.
"Yeah, and you're right. He's slim. I mean he had the nerve to approach me and ask me about us, the Sailor Senshi!"
As soon as she brought this up, Haruka and Michiru both frowned.
"What does he know about us?" Michiru asked curiously.
"Oh, it's not like he knows our true identities but I did not even want to answer his question. I mean, ugh, such arrogance! Before I walked out, I slapped Cain across the face! And you know what...?" Rei said as an evil smirk crossed her face. "It felt good. Really good."
Haruka sweat dropped. "Wow, um, you slapped him? You actually got away with it?"
"You bet I did and I'll do it again if I must!"
"Well, that's our Rei-chan. Never afraid to standing up to men," Michiru giggled. "Oh, you truly are a role model for women."
"I don't aim to be a role model but whatever floats your vote. I only did it because I didn't want to give him the benefit of the doubt."
"By the way, you saw your sister?" Haruka asked the Miko. "So, are you two still going to see each other?"
"Of course, that girl wants to spend more time with me. I think it would be very sisterly if I saw her more often. I even reminded her that she was more than welcome to visit the shrine."
"That's so sweet. I hope you two bond well," Michiru smiled. "That girl needs her sister the most. I know you'll be there for her. Just as we've taken care of Hotaru-chan."
"Where are Setsuna-san and Hotaru-chan by the way?"
"They're back home but we not only came here to eat dinner," Haruka frowned. "We also came to investigate with those Lycans in town lately. Looks like you guys will need our help."
"You know...?"
"Don't underestimate Setsuna-san's foresight," the turquoise-haired woman stated. "Listen, Rei-chan, you best be on your guard."
"Right. There's no need to remind me of that. I know and I've been sensing strange activity. We should get a status report from Ami-chan on the whereabouts of their hideout."
"In the meantime, we'll take care of our own cover. Take care, Rei," Haruka waved out to the Miko as she walked down with her lover.
"Take it easy and get some rest," Michiru said while accompanying Haruka down to the restaurant.
Rubbing her forehead, Rei deeply sighed and knocked her head with the ball of her knuckles. "Geez, I need to get back home. What a night." And Cammy-chan, I hope we will see each other soon. Father will not keep us separate for much longer!
xxxxx
West Shinjuku/Outside the Tsubasa Residence/9:19 PM
Standing outside of the Tsubasa residence, Aoshi was standing outside and waved out to his friend, Yui. They had spent the whole day together at his father's dojo. Currently, Yui was living with her brother, Himura. They had godparents, the Katsuya family, living in Shibuya. Often, they would go by to visit them a few times a month.
"Bye, Yui-chan! I'll see you tomorrow!" Aoshi waved out to his best friend. "Goodnight!"
"You, too, Aoshi-kun! Goodnight!" Yui smiled as she closed the door.
As he turned, the boy walked down the street on his way back to his father's dojo. Luckily for him, it was three blocks down and this side of town was not run by any gang activity. He was free to walk without any worries.
That is until he stopped as a shadowed figure stepped from out of a corner.
Aoshi gasped and fell back as he accidentally bumped into the shady figure. The figure's red eyes stared down at the boy and sent chills down his spine.
"Ooh... Who.. Who are you, mister?" Aoshi stuttered. His body was virtually frozen with fear as those red eyes stared straight into his own.
Aoshi couldn't even pick himself up. "Who... Whoa re you?"
"Don't be afraid, child. I mean no harm to you. I just came by to say hello."
"Um, hello but my dad told me to never talk with strangers..."
"Oh, I'm no stranger. But, I certainly do know your father never well. How is he? Okami?"
Aoshi gasped as he realized the man had figured out his father's name. He crawled back and trembled nervously. "Oh, but how do you know... my father..."
"Tell me child. What is your name?"
"...Ao...Aoshi..."
The man kneeled down and chuckled deeply. "That's a nice name for a good boy. My name is Kiba."
"Wow, you have such... a nice... name, too. Yeah..."
Kiba grinned. "It's okay, Aoshi. I told you that I mean you no harm in any manner. You can relax now."
Nodding his head, Aoshi's mouth was dry for him to even utter a single vocabulary. Looking up at the man's eyes, he noticed that they were slightly animalistic and not remotely close to appearing human.
Kiba turned away from the child and looked up at the beautiful night skies. The stars littered the sky as each gleamed and were powered by boiling hot gases. But from a far distance (from an earth's point of view), they were nothing more than tiny dots. Another odd thing about the skies was that there was no full moon present. Just a half moon.
"You're lucky that there's no moon. Otherwise you would have transformed into one."
Aoshi gasped . "Into one...?"
"Yes, aren't you a Lycan? The scent I'm picking up from you isn't human. Your scent is like my brethren and mine. You are one with a pack."
"No..." the boy nodded. "You know that I'm a Lycan? Just be smelling me?"
"Of course, can't you take a whiff of my scent?"
Lowering his head, Aoshi nodded his head and gulped. "No. My scent of smell is very... poor. I can't even smell anything from a far distance."
"I see. That's too bad."
The man stood up and looked up at the night skies once again. This time a shooting star soared across the thick, dark clouds.
"So, tell me. That bracelet around your arm," the man pointed down at Aoshi's right arm. Encircling the wrist was a golden bracelet with ancient letterings. They appeared written in old Latin. "That bracelet was given to by your father?"
Noticing that his bracelet was exposed on his right arm, the boy gasped and tried to hide it. It was no use hiding it. Kiba had already noticed it. The boy sighed.
"You don't have to answer that question if you don't want to. I was just curious."
"...He... He did. This bracelet restrains my true Lycan nature. My father feared that I would never control that form if I walked out when there was a full moon. So, with this bracelet, it protects me from people. To keep the beast from coming out and completely taking over. I can now walk freely in the night when there's even a full moon."
"The bracelet has a mystic power radiating around it. You see it's not only the bracelet but it erects a barrier around you to shield you from the moon light radiation. That is why your true Lycan nature has been suppressed."
"That's right..."
Kiba smiled and observed the bracelet closer. "But, what if I were to say that you wouldn't even need the bracelet to walk freely in the night? Aoshi, I can teach you to control your Lycan transformation and nature."
Upon hearing this, the boy seemed interested and raised an eyebrow. "Really? You could?"
"If you would allow me to train you. That bracelet you wear is nothing more than a handicap. It is truly holding your Lycan nature back," he explained. "You really don't need it, Aoshi."
"I... I don't?"
"No. If you keep this on, it will hurt you more than ever help you. Your father doesn't even realize that."
Aoshi was shocked. He didn't know whether to take Kiba's word for it or not, but he glanced down at the bracelet. "You're telling me the truth? This bracelet is no good?"
Nodding his head, the Lycan touched the boy's golden bracelet. "So, will you allow me to train you? I can teach you methods in controlling your feral Lycan form. You couldn't possibly imagine the training I can offer you, child. What took your father years to think of a measure to repress your true form, it will take me a matter of a few weeks for you to control your Lycan nature. Please..." He put his hand over Aoshi's bracelet. "Give me this chance to help you in anyway I that can."
"I...don't know..." Aoshi was hesitant. "My father would be angry if I was seen with you. He's very a strict martial arts master..."
"And a full-blooded Lycan. You are merely a half-breed and born from a human mother."
Aoshi nodded. "That's right."
"Listen to me, Aoshi... I may look younger than I should be but I come from an old Lycan clan many hundreds of years ago. I led a very prominent and loyal pack of brothers. These weren't like the Shichi'okamitai. They weren't mercenaries."
"Wait, that Lycan who tried to kill the Senshi several days ago and the same one who attacked my school..."
"It was fortunate that he found you. Otherwise, we wouldn't be meeting here. That was Kotsu. Once he realized you were a Lycan in nature, he would have brought you to me. Alas, his sacrifice did not go in vain. He meant at least you no harm... We mean you no harm."
"..."
"My old clan was one of the most efficient and successful Lycan tribes to ever hunted. We preyed on humans. Some of our methods may have been cruel and sadistic but otherwise we remained loyal to one another like family. We looked after and tended to each other. Each successful kill invigorated us. Then, one day, my clan was all but slaughtered. After the humans killed my only daughter, an older and stronger Lycan made sure that we paid for our sins. I watched as my brothers were killed one by one. They didn't stand a chance against this frightening monster. I left to tend to my wounds and vowed one day to avenge my fallen clan."
While listening to the Lycan's story, Aoshi felt a tear drip across his cheek and became heartbroken. If anything, he hated to see other people angst and lamenting in grief. He wanted everyone to share his happiness. Though, he would surely realize the truth of how ugly life can really turn out.
"Kiba... I don't know what to say... I'm sorry..."
"Well, one day I will find him," Kiba said. "Aoshi, so, will you accept my offer? Train with me, but I leave that choice to you."
Aoshi was left with a decision to make. His father had never told him or even anything about Kiba. The boy wondered who was the Lycan that massacred all of Kiba's brethren.
"Father. Should I... This poor man... I'm sure you'd feel for him. He lost his pack. You could at least show him pity. Should I train with him? I want to be able to control my Lycan nature without ever going feral again."
"Aoshi. Remember, I am not forcing you to do this. This is your choice. You can either accept or not. I'll give you another day to come up with your final decision."
As he turned, he felt a hand stop him. Kiba looked down and saw Aoshi grabbing his wrist.
All Aoshi could murmur was simply. "Yes..."
"Yes, what? Have you decided what you want to do?"
In response, the boy unclipped the bracelet on his right arm and looked directly into Kiba's eyes. Neither took their eyes of each other.
"I have made my decision. I will accept your training. I wish to be prepared to tame my Lycan form than remain a prison behind this bracelet."
Kiba grinned as he took the child by his hand. "Then, you are ready for my trials and tribulations. Come with me. There's something we need to catch up on. Then, I will let you go about home."
"Yes, Kiba..."
Looking down at the boy, the pack leader was reminded of the daughter he had loved many centuries ago. He had now taken in the son of the man who had murdered his clan.
"Okami, I have your son but even I will prove to be a much better father figure than you ever will hope to be. Until then, Aoshi has become one with my new clan. As for our confrontation, the next red moon arises on the 31st of this month. I'm sure you're aware of my presence. I'll be waiting for you."
xxxxx
Juuban District/Mizuno Residence/11:02 PM
Having to stay up late, Ami was working with her compact supercomputer. She linked it to her blue Mac OSX and checked for any beacons of the Shichi'okamitai's quarters. She had to reduce her study time for once to help her friends.
Coming to the conclusion that the Lycans may have confirmed their true identities, she had to hurry.
Typing in a command, she uttered a gasp as a beacon flashed on the online map. It was located near the Tokyo Rainbow Bridge.
Getting up from her chair, Ami's eyes narrowed. "I've finally located it. Now, I should rely this information to the girls. Hopefully, we're not too late."
(Cue fade to black)
End of episode eight.
xxxxx
Next Time
Minako's Birthday Bash! Kyo of the Shichi'okamitai Crashes the Party!
xxxxx
Ok, shorter than my last chapter but I told you there wouldn't be any action. I didn't spend too much time on this besides the fact that I needed to give Rei more screen time with her half sister and father. In addition, Aoshi meeting Kiba for the first time.
We'll see how that situation develops once Okami finds out. It won't be pretty. That's for sure. Also, I hope to expand more on Kiba's past and develop him as we move further along.
At least, the plot is moving along as I had planned from the start. That's all that matters. No time for stalling!
I apologize for the lack of Usagi and Mamoru but she had her time to shine last chapter against Kotsu. I want to give the other girls as much exposure they deserve.
But, at least you fans of Cain noticed that he received plenty of screen time. Not to mention being slapped by Rei! X3
Do not anger the Miko! That's all I've got to say.
As I am writing this, I will be returning back to college to complete my junior credits starting the day after Labor Day. I will be taking a break from fic writing until then and during the first week upon my return to college life.
So, wish me luck and I hope to become a senior by winter. I should be done with college in about a year and a half or even two years from now. The first half of 2008 is the most possible graduation estimate. Wish me luck, everyone!
So, as far as this story is concerned, sorry to say that there will be fewer updates than usual. This and Naruto will receive fewer updates but I will at least update my Digimon series, D-Fusion, weekly (two times each in a week hopefully).
Sorry but my education comes first.
Until then, I leave this in closing. See you on the next update.
Make sure you review after reading this. I would appreciate it. :)
Peace!
