A Dawn to this Endless Night
Diner was long over and between the four girls; the dishes had been done quickly. Now they sat around in the living room drinking tea, and coffee for Kat... she never was a tea person. "So... I was thinking." Isa said with a mischievous glint in her eyes.
"Oh God Isa... what ever it is NO." Kat sighed and took another long sip of the coffee; she was starting to think she was going to need it.
"Aww.... Come on Katie, you haven't even heard my idea yet." Isa whined.
"I'm curious." Kagura grinned at the dog.
"It couldn't hurt to hear it." Tohru added while placing her tea cup down.
"Yay." Isa clapped her hands and gave her cousin a loving but evil smile. Kat just shook her head a smiled back. "I was just wondering what Kagura and Tohru would look like if they were dressed well... more American." The two girls looked at each other then back at Isa. Caitlin raised an eyebrow, it sounded innocent enough, but nothing was EVER innocent with Isa. Then again... it would give her a chance to show up that damn boar. Kat inclined her head with a smile.
"What an interesting idea Isa." The dog looked a little surprised.
"Oh... well I'm glad you like it. Cause here's the deal..." Now Isa was grinning again. "We pick out outfits for them but then they get to do the same for us." Kat pondered that, how bad could it be... after all... this was HER house... so most of the stuff in it was hers. With a slow nod to her cousin.
"Deal." The cat stood and extended a hand.
"Tohru you go with Kat and you Kagura can come with me." Isa stood as well.
"Cool, this is going to be fun." Kagura jumped up. The riceball was a little more nervous however and got to her feet slowly.
"Come on doll, I don't bite." Kat gave her a genuine smile that seemed to calm her down a bit. Isa and Kagura had already disappeared up the stairs when Kat and Tohru got to her room on the first floor (it was decided that she should stay there from now on... incase she wanted to jump out windows again).
"Thank you for having us over, and picking us up." Tohru added quietly.
"Hey, no thanks necessary." Kat paused and looked over at her. "I'm not really used to having friends, especially ones that aren't Sohma's, so sorry if I seem a little out of it. I mean in truth, I guess I am a little out of it." Kat was surprised when the riceball closed the gap between them and gave her a hug.
"I'm glad to have you as a friend." She smiled.
"Yea, me too." Kat said as she slowly returned the hug. The blond slid the door open and walked in to the room, Tohru following behind. The twins were seated on the bed and jumped up when their sister walked in.
"Katie!" They ran over to her and pounced on her dragging her down closer to their height.
"Hey'a kits, what'cha doing in here?" She sat Mary on her lap and ruffled Regene's hair.
"We just wanted to say hello to Miss. Honda, and ask if you would tuck us in." Regene smiled.
"Well hello then." Tohru smiled at the girls and sat down next to Kat. They let go of their sister and hugged the riceball as well, who seemed to forget all her worries in the face of the children. "Oh, you two are so cute." They giggled and hugged her harder.
"You can help tuck us in too." Mary added.
"Yea, Katie won't mind." Regene smiled.
"Hah... Making the poor girl suffer like that." Kat grinned at the twins.
"Aww Katie." "Katie that's mean." The girls turned to their sister and only made her laugh harder.
"Sure, I'd love to help." Tohru added as she looked at her new friend. Their little cheers went up as they ran out of her room and into the room they shared with their father.
"Come on," Kat said as she stood. "Looks like you've been roped in too." The riceball followed her across the hall.
"I don't see how anyone could turn them down, they're so adorable." That got the blond laughing.
"Yea, we know, that's the problem... no one can EVER say no to them." The brunette laughed as well. The twins reminded her of Kisa.
Dressed in their night gowns the little ones where already sitting together in one large bed.
"All right kittens lay down." Kat said as she sat down on the side and leaned in to give each one a kiss. Tohru stood near the wall and watched them, she found herself wondering how many different facets Kat had in her personality. She watched as the older smoothed down the hair of the girls and pulled the covers up to their chins. The two curled up together at watched their sister with sparkling eyes. "Okay then, one last thing." Kat added with a smile as she turned off the light and left only a few candles to keep the shadows at bay. She took a small breath and sang a lullaby to them.
Goodnight, sleep tight, no more tears
In the morning I'll be here
And when we say goodnight, dry your eyes
Because we said goodnight and not goodbye
We said goodnight and not goodbye
Giving them each one last hug, she whispered goodnight to them and stood. "Good night Katie, good night Miss. Honda." They said as she got to the door.
"Good night Miss Mary, good night Miss Regene." Tohru said with a wave as she followed the other girl out and watched, as the door was quietly slid shut. Kat led them back into her room before speaking again.
"Thanks, they love the attention." She shot a smile to the riceball as she started looking through the closet for good attire for Tohru.
"I really don't think you needed my help, but I was glad to be there." Tohru was looking around the room and had to admit to herself that she was mildly pleased with its cleanliness. Kat glanced back at Tohru for a moment and looked the girl over.
"Pants or skirt?" The riceball blinked in a confused fashion. "For your outfit?" Kat smiled.
"Oh... well I don't care. You can pick." She said, some of her earlier shyness creeping back up.
"All right then." Kat turned back to the closet. The rice ball glanced over at the bed-table and saw a single picture on it. Taking a closer look, she easily recognized 3 of the 5 figures in it as Kat, her brother, and her father, even if the cat and the rat were only about Mary and Regene's age. She guessed the woman that was held in Alexander's arms was his late wife Marilyn. But the other boy she had no clue about, he looked to be about 16 or 17 in the picture with short sandy blond hair and cold ice blue eyes. He stood slightly apart from the family and did not look happy to be there.
"Um... excuse me Kat?" The blond looked over. "Who is the other boy in this picture; I assumed that the woman was your mother?" Kat stopped what she was doing and walked over to look at the picture.
"Yea, that was my mom. That picture was taken when the family went to Disney Land for the first time." She gazed into the picture for a long time. "The other person is Marcus... the old Head of the Family." At that, she went back to the closet. Tohru put the picture back down and looked at it some more. Kat pulled out a white dress that she would only normally have worn on stage, but she had a feeling it would suit Tohru. The classic "gothic Lolita" style of it was something that Isa had convinced the band to do for their last show before they left California. Kat had only worn the dress once, but she brought it out and laid it on the bed. Seeing Tohru still looking at the picture she frowned. "Marcus was our older brother." She clarified. Tohru's eyes moved up to her knew friend and she saw that careful mask again. The riceball remembered the American Rat's words. "Marcus wanted Katie dead from the moment she was born." How sad, so not only was she hated by the Head of the family, but also, he was her own brother. Finally the cat smiled, "come on, time to play dress up. I'll even get a picture so Yuki can see how great you're gonna look." And just like that, the subject had passed.
"Oh no... Yuki wouldn't think that." Tohru blushed as the blond laughed.
"Right kid." She held her hand out with the dress. "We'll just see about that."
A few minutes later Tohru was seated in a chair fully dressed, even down to white thigh high suede boots, allowing Kat to apply some small touches of makeup. "You really do look awesome, you should get dressed up more often, have that rat take you out to dinner or something."
"Oh no I could never ask that... I mean Yuki and Shigure and Kyou have all been so kind to me. I could never ask for anything more." Kat just smiled and shook her head.
"Well take a look." She took Tohru's hand and pulled her out of the chair and over to a long mirror. The dress was modest enough to still be decent, but it showed off her curves more than ANYTHING she would have bought. It came down to her mid thigh and met the boots almost perfectly. Kat had brushed out her hair, and the makeup made her eyes look a little deeper and her lips a little larger. "See, stunning." The cat smiled at a job well done.
"Th- thank you." The riceball stammered, completely unsure of how she was supposed to act.
A knock on the door drew their attention as Isa walked in. "Ladies, may I present Kagura Souma." She said with a bow of flourish. Kagura walked in dressed in an ankle length black skirt and a black Chinese style corset with blue vines on it. Isa had done her hair and make up so well that the boar could have easily pulled off 23 or 24 years old.
"Oh Tohru, you look so cute." Kagura darted over to her friend and each admired the other's outfits. Kat however, got the opportunity to take a good look at Isa. Kagura had apparently chosen to let Isa wear her school uniform. Which on Isabella who was taller and well, a little curvier, just looked shameless. The skirt was shorter and the top tight enough that it showed off her stomach. Kat's eyebrow twitched as she hung her head.
"You're hopeless you damn dog."
"Who me?" Isa's mock exasperation was amusing as she giggled. "I think it looks cute. Besides, I don't see you dressed yet." The cat shook her head.
"Well Tohru and I got to talking, and besides, I had to put the twins to bed."
"Well then kiddo, lets get you dressed and then I can get my camera." Isa grinned. "AND, since Kagura is here as well, they both can pick your outfit." Kat twitched again.
"Yea, come on Tohru." Kagura dragged the mildly whimpering riceball (she wasn't used to all the attention) over to the closet. Kat and Isa were staring at each other in silence, Kat knew that the dog HAD to be up to something... nothing with Isabella was ever EVER this childlike. What is that damn dog planning?
"What about this?" Tohru said from the other side of the room. Caitlin turned around to see Tohru holding up a simple, sleeveless, red dress, plain and unadorned the dress had belonged to her mother and was what she wore the to the New Years Celebration before she died. Kat nodded.
"Okay." Walking over she took the dress from Tohru and laid it on the bed, finding shoes to match. The cat hesitated for a moment and debated asking the others to leave, but just gave up on it. She slid out of the white dress shirt and heard Tohru gasp.
"Oh my god what happened? Are you okay?" The riceball had walked over and placed a hand on her shoulder. Kat gave her a smile as she stretched the stitches in her back. She could feel them healing, only another week or so and Hatori would be able to remove them, once again, she praised her quick healing factor.
"Yea, they're old. Don't worry about it." She honestly wondered if the girl would believe her. "From running around through the woods and all." She added, turning so her back was too the wall as she finished getting undressed. Tohru actually seemed to buy the story and Isa was staring at the floor; but Kagura was looking at her, giving her the "I know you're lying look." The boar didn't need to stare at the other girl to know what was going on, she had been living at the Main House with Akito long enough to make connections. She was certain that the stitched wounds were indeed new, but anyone who knew what to look for would have seen the older scars as well. Kat slipped the dress over her head and turned her back to Tohru.
"You wanna zip that up?" She felt the girl's touch, feather light, and for some reason it made her angry. "It's okay ya know. I'm not gonna break." She glanced over her shoulder and saw the dark haired girl nod.
"Hey Kat, let me do your make up." Isa said with a smile changing the subject and finally looking at her cousin again. Isa wasn't stupid; she had always known what was going on, her and Kahlan. But they had a silent agreement with the cat, never to say anything to anyone.
After finishing make up, Isa curled her hair so that it fell around her shoulders in thick waves and added a crimson shawl from her collection of oddities. "You know love..." Isa smiled as she turned her cousin to the mirror. "You really do look just like your mother." Caitlin gave her cousin a smile. "Now then, why don't I get some pictures before we—"she stopped. Kat turned a grin to Isa.
"Before we what Isa?"
"Oh nothing." The dog smiled and looked at the suddenly very interesting ceiling.
"ISA!" Kat's voice grew a little louder. Kagura and Tohru exchanged a glance.
"Well I was just wondering you know... what the boys were doing." She tried to pull off an innocent look and failed.
"HAH! I knew you were plotting something." Kat pointed a finger at her cousin.
"I wouldn't say plotting... more like planning... it sounds nicer." Isa nodded triumphantly.
"And let me guess... you thought that MAYBE we should go make sure they aren't getting into trouble." Kat added.
"Ah, my wonderful little cousin, you know me far too well." Isa threw her arm around her cousin's shoulder.
"You have no idea." Kat replied blandly.
But somehow, with in a few minutes Isa had convinced Kagura (not that much convincing was necessary there) and Tohru (that one was harder) that it was a wonderful idea. And with the help of the other two, Kat was convinced to go along with the little adventure; though according to the blond, it was ONLY because someone needed to drive and no one was safe with Isa. So after Isa had fun with pictures... the four, dressed up, girls piled into the black convertible (top up this time) and started over to Shigure's house to give the boys a surprise.
"I wonder what the girls are doing." Shigure sighed and rested his chin in his hands. "I bet they're having much more fun that we are." Yuki shrugged in response.
"This wasn't my idea... So if you have a plan, go ahead and voice it." The violet eyed boy glanced out the window. "Just don't be surprised if no one else likes the idea."
"That's a little harsh Yuki." Kahlan said in a bored fashion as he looked at his nails. Kal had been sitting against the wall all evening, except for dinner, sulking and avoiding Kyou; which thankfully wasn't hard, since the cat had opted to spend most of the night on the roof. But he came down for dinner, and had been down ever since then, which made the tension in the room nearly unbearable for the other members of the Zodiac. Yuki found himself glad that the American Cow didn't have a "black side" or the house would be in pieces by now... then again, so would his rival... and that wasn't such a bad thing. Kyou was lying by the door, his second favorite spot in the house, thoroughly ignoring everyone.
"We should play a game." Shigure chimed.
"That's a stupid idea." This coming from Kyou, who hadn't moved.
"What did you have in mind Shigure?" Daniel asked from where he was seated next to Yuki. The two had been talking off and on all night and seemed to be the only ones in the house who were actually DOING anything. Once they figured out what subjects were bad to broach with the other, they seemed to get along impeccably. Shigure grinned.
"Well I don't know, what kind of games to you play in America for situations like this one Dani?" The white rat shrugged and grew pensive for a moment.
"I really don't exactly do things like this very often," the blond seemed out of his element so to speak. "Usually we just tell stories or something like that."
"Oh what a great idea." The dog beamed and clasped his hands together. "Since I'm a novelist I would be great at that." Dani raised an eyebrow, god he DOES sound like Isa. Now wonder that batty canine gets along with him.
"Not that kind of stories you pervert..." Kahlan had spoken again; his mood was getting surlier and surlier as the night went on. Dani frowned; maybe he should just kill the cat and get it over with. At least that way the rest of us won't have to deal with it. "You're sexual exploits are of no interests to us." Kal snarled. Shigure looked as if he would play back with the cow but decided against it after a getting a glare from Yuki.
"You know you're really starting to piss me off." Kyou shouted as he pushed himself up into a sitting position and glared at the blue haired youth.
"Well it's about damn time you said something useful." Kahlan pushed himself off the wall at the same time Kyou jumped to his feet. The rest of the room waited and watched, half expecting to see an explosion go off before they ever even reached other.
"Please don't break the house." Shigure said in a rather meek voice.
"Listen here you stupid cat, I can wipe the floor with you any day." Kal grabbed Kyou by the color of his shirt.
"Like hell you can... you're pathetic and probably no better in a fight then my cousin Haru. I haven't done a damn thing to you, and you think you can come in here and—" Kahlan cut him off by punching him in the stomach. Kyou took a step back and growled before lunging at the other boy. Kyou got off a few good hits before Kal started dodging efficiently, but the cow hadn't gotten off another hit yet either.
"Thank god Tohru isn't here." Yuki mumbled.
"I would have to agree." Shigure had gone serious on them.
"Should we stop them?" Dani had stood with the other two and watched orange and blue fight. "I don't think they're playing Yuki. Not like you and Kyou, or me and my sister. I really think they are out for blood."
Yuki shrugged. "I really don't care, though if I had to route for one it would be Kahlan, that stupid cat deserves what he gets." Dani frowned.
"Never the less, perhaps you are right young Daniel." Shigure added in a quieter tone that lacked its normal enthusiasm. "If you can restrain your cousin, I think Yuki and I can get Kyou."
"Why do I have to help?" Yuki raised an eyebrow at the dog.
"Because if Kyou and Kahlan get hurt because you wouldn't help stop them from fighting I think Tohru will be very upset." The rat glared.
"I hate you sometimes Shigure." With that said Yuki walked up behind Kyou and grabbed him around the shoulders pulling him back. Kahlan used the opportunity to hit the cat one more solid time in the stomach before Daniel got a hold of him and pulled him away from the other Souma.
"Let me go you damn Rat!" Kyou snarled at the same time Kahlan yelled. "Knock it off Dani; let me go so I can kill that jerk." Shigure walked in between the pairs and held up his arms.
"Both of you calm down please." The dog's eyes narrowed. "Think of how upset Tohru and Caitlin will be if they find out about this." That seemed to calm both parties down.
"Fine." Kahlan mumbled as he shook off his cousin's grip and went to sit back against the wall.
"Whatever." Kyou wrenched his arms out of Yuki's hands and stalked up the stairs, undoubtedly going to the roof.
"Maybe we should just put on the TV." Yuki said with a sigh... he really did hope that Tohru's night was turning out better than his was. The screen came on with a click and a newscaster's face flooded the picture.
"A string of robberies has cursed the town as yet another family was attacked during the night while they slept. The culprit is still at large and people are advised to take extra precautions. So lock your doors and windows folks, the police are working diligently to solve these crimes."
Yuki blinked, "maybe not," and clicked off the TV.
"Did that woman say robberies?" Kahlan looked over at Dani from where he sat. "You don't think the girls are in danger do you?" He sounded concerned, completely different from the volatile young man of earlier.
"I'm sure they are fine Kal. After all, Katie IS there... and she's much meaner to strangers than she is with the rest of her family. Somehow I think anyone who broke into the house would be begging to leave before she was done with them." Dani cracked a smile as Kahlan scowled, they're fine I'm sure... Isa's watching them... and Father is there as well. Yes, I'm sure that there is nothing to worry about.
Yuki glanced back at the black television screen. Tohru would be safe with them, there are plenty of people at Alexander's home to look out for her. And since she won't be the one answering the doors everything will be just fine.
Shigure smirked to himself, I wonder what kind of cruel prank I can play on these kids. He snickered and smiled making his plans.
Up on the roof Kyou stared at the stars and the moon. What is wrong with that idiot? What the hell did I do to get him all pissed off at me? I would have had him had Yuki not got in the way. Those damn rats... that's all they ever do is get in the way. I'm going to get him one of these days. Suddenly the feline realized he was thinking about his American counter part. The way she had smiled at him and told him that she was certain he would beat Yuki when the time came. No one had ever spoken like that to him before, not even his Master... How was he supposed to react to that? What was he supposed to do about that girl? Kyou rubbed his eyes and rolled onto his side, resting his head on his arm, content to just think for a while and enjoy the piece and quiet of the night sky.
"Come on Kat, go faster." Isa chided from the passenger seat.
"Shut up Isa, I'm not like you; I prefer to live through my driving experiences." Kat replied slyly with a smile to her cousin.
"I think Caitlin is quite right." Tohru added from the back seat.
"Aww come on Tohru... this is fun." Kagura cheered and grinned as she stuck her arm out the window of the convertible and let the wind run along her hand.
"I am having fun Kagura; I just hope we don't get into trouble for all of this." Tohru was worried; then again that was the riceball's nature.
"Never fear Tohru dear... "Isabella grinned at her own rhyme. "We'll be fine. I promise." As they neared Shigure's house Kat slowed the car and turned off the headlights, relying on her night vision to guide her. Isa watched her cousin as bright blue bleed to red and spread to cover her whole eye. It was one of the few features of the Zodiac Cat that didn't frighten Caitlin, and hence it was one of the only things that she would allow herself to do.
The blond pulled the car to a stop before the last bend that would lead to the house and shut it off. "Well ladies, it's by foot from here." Kat said as she slid of the drivers seat and settled the stiletto heels on the dirt path. "And please Isa, remind me next time to wear more comfortable shoes." She muttered as she pulled the seat forward for Tohru and Kagura.
"What are you planning Kat?" This time it was the dog who asked.
"Nothing, but if we've gotten this far then by god we're going to do this right." She flashed the three girls a smile.
"What did you have in mind?" Kagura could barely contain her excitement, it made Kat a little twitchy, but never the less she shrugged.
"Hasn't anyone been paying attention to the news?"
"No and why should I?" Isa looped an arm around her cousin's waist. Kat just sighed and patted Isa on the head the way she would Mary and Regene.
"I have actually. Why, what is it that you were looking for?" Tohru added, still fidgeting in the new clothes.
"Wasn't there something about a string of robberies?" Kat asked with a wry smile. The rice ball nodded. "Well then, we're going to play a little joke on the boyo's." Kat hopped up onto the hood of the car and sat there with her legs crossed. Isa mused that there was something dangerously attractive about her cousin when she looked like that. "Tohru, when I tell you too, you and Kagura are merely going to sneak into the house and head up to Tohru's room. That should cause sufficient confusion. The boyo's will have no idea what is going on." With a grin like the Cheshire, Kat leaned forward.
"But won't they see us come in?" Kagura asked.
"They won't be able to see anything." Isa added, suddenly realizing what Caitlin was planning to do. "You want me to pull a Sway?" She glanced at the other girl.
"That's the idea... you think you can do it with out help?"
Isabella bowed in flourish, "of course I can... for I am Isabella the Amazing." Kat covered her mouth to stifle a giggle.
"Well then, let's go." Kat slid off the car hood, brushed out the red dress and flashed them all a white smile. "Follow me ladies." With the blond in the lead the four girls snuck around the side of the house. Isabella gave them all a wave before separating and going the other way to find the fuse box.
Humming quietly to herself Isa opened the box. "Now then... let's see... one, no not you." She looked over all the fuses. "Two... perhaps... you... maybe... no..." She shrugged... "Well, Sway would say if you don't know it... improvise." And with that the auburn haired canine flicked a switch, a grinned when all the lights suddenly went out. "Bingo." She smiled and leaned back against the wall to wait for a signal from her cousin. She realized now that Kat had given them all tasks... well all expect for her. What was she planning to do?
"What the hell was that?" Kahlan jumped to his feet just as the lights went out. "This is so not funny you stupid cat!" He yelled loudly.
"Kahlan, stop it." Dani shot back. A silence filled the room. "Okay, Yuki where are you?"
"I'm right here next to you." The silver haired boy replied as he laid a hand on the other rats shoulder. "What about you Shigure?" Yuki spoke in his normal calm voice.
"Just where I was before." The novelist replied.
"See I told you... that leaves that ass Kyou." Just as he said that there was a thump on the roof. "Come down here you bastard... this is not funny. Someone could get hurt."
"Who are you yelling at?" The voice came from the direction of the stairs, but it was unmistakably Kyou. "Don't go blaming this one on me. I was on my way down here to tell Shigure that I thought I saw something moving around outside, but when I got back in the lights went out. So I don't want to hear it."
"But wait... if we are all down here... then who is up on the roof?" Dani said what everyone was thinking.
"It doesn't matter... I am going to go turn the lights back on." There was suddenly a flash of light as the dog illuminated his face with a flash light. "I will be back in a moment."
"Right." Kyou muttered.
"Don't fear children, I shall return and protect you from the Robbers." Shigure made his dramatic speech as Kyou, at least he assumed it was Kyou, threw something at his head. The dog dodged but with out light had no way of telling what had been thrown. Opening the door, Shigure walked out of the house and around the side of the building.
Kagura and Tohru watched as Shigure walked out the back door and disappeared around the side of the house. "Here's our chance Tohru, let's go." The boar grinned.
"Are you sure we won't get into trouble." The rice ball was getting more and more nervous.
"Positive." Together the two crept to the front door and snuck inside. Creeping up the stairs and trying to make as little noise as possible. When the stairs creaked they heard Yuki's voice.
"Shigure, is that you?" Tohru almost called back but Kagura put her finger to the rice balls lips and shushed.
"Hey... Shigure!" That time it was Kahlan. The girls took another step up the stairs before they creaked again and they were forced to stop.
"Maybe this would be a bad time to mention this." Daniel's voice was quieter than the others had been. "But I think there is someone in the house." As if on cue the sound of footsteps on the roof was heard again.
"Don't look at me blue boy..." Kyou shouted. "I'm still here."
"So there is someone on the roof..." Yuki added.
"... and someone inside." Dani commented.
From outside the house they heard Shigure scream, and then silence.
"Oh that was wonderful Gure." Isa smiled as she leaned against him. Shigure was laughing. As soon as he had stumbled upon Isa and the fuse box he could not help but having a piece of the fun. They had turned the tables and this time all the kids were going to be embarrassed.
"Ah, and what fun this is. I'm glad you decided to drop by Isa." He smiled.
"So am I... I just hope the others agree when we're done with them." The dog laughed quietly.
"By the way... you look stunning... but why are you wearing a High School Uniform?" Isa gave him a fake pout.
"Aww, don't you like it Gure?" The Japanese Dog could only smile.
"That's it.... I'm going to fix this problem once and for all." Kyou growled as he headed for the stairs, bumping into the wall in the process and growling. Kagura pushed Tohru against the wall and they stayed perfectly still as Kyou climbed the stairs right past them. Deciding that discretion was the better part of valor, they slid back down the stairs and glanced into the living room. Suddenly they heard another thump on the roof, one that signaled Kyou was going after the "robber."
Kyou climbed out his bedroom window and up the ladder onto the roof. After shooting a quick glance around the roof and seeing no one, he moved forward and continued looking around.
Isa giggled and wrapped her arms around Shigure's neck. "Now?" She whispered, her lips dangerously close to his ear. He nodded,
"Now is good."
With Kyou gone, Kagura tugged on Tohru's arm. As they slowly got to their feet and went to begin creeping again, the lights suddenly came back on. Leaving them in plain sight of three very startled boys.
"M—Miss Honda?" Yuki's eyes were wide. Tohru turned a bright color of scarlet and looked down at the ground. The violet eyed boy couldn't believe his eyes, he didn't know what to say, there were so many questions he COULD have had... if she hadn't looked so damn beautiful in the strange outfit she was wearing.
"Miss Honda, Miss Kagura... what are you doing here?" Kahlan tilted his head to the side.
"And if you're here, where are my sister and Isa?" Dani added suddenly narrowing his eyes.
"We're sorry," the boar said with a huge grin on face. "We just wanted to have a little fun. It was Isa's idea."
"I'm sorry Yuki." Tohru mumbled while still staring at the floor.
"No, it's okay." Yuki managed to say back, mouth still agape.
"Oh was it." Dani looked around upon hearing Kagura's explanation. "ISABELLA!!!" He yelled. "Where are you!?!?!" Twin sets of laugher erupted from the door way as Isa and Shigure walked in arm-in-arm.
"Aww you're no fun Dani." Isa mock pouted.
"You were in on this?" Yuki glared at the male dog. The two only laughed harder.
"Somewhat... but don't you just look lovely Tohru." Shigure said with a grin and a wink to Yuki. "I don't think I've seen Yuki blush like that in ages." The color in the rat's cheeks got darker as the riceball looked up.
"S-so you're not mad?" She said quietly.
"Mad! Me? Of course not..." Shigure grinned. Dani cut in shaking his head.
"Just because you wanted to cause trouble Isa, didn't mean you had to drag everyone else along... you're hopeless." Isa started laughing aging.
"But we had so much fun scaring you guys... it wasn't till Gure and I turned on the lights and decided to catch all of you that I really made trouble." She gave her cousin a sarcastic smile. Kagura and Tohru just looked at her, disappointed that she managed to fool them as well.
"Fine," Daniel sighed... "Wait a minute... where is my sister?" His eyes narrowed.
Kat cringed as she heard Dani yelling for Isa... well it seemed that their game was over. She walked over to the edge of the roof and looked over it. "Hey!" Yelled a familiar male voice from behind her. She stood up strait, but kept her back to him.
Kyou took a moment to look over the "robber." HE may have not heard Daniel, but he was having a hard time believing that someone would rob a house in heels. Heels... that meant the person was a girl... or Aya. He watched the figure slowly turn around, framed in the shadows of the full moon behind her. The wind on the roof was enough to blow her hair across her face as deep red lips smiled at him. Kyou tilted his head to the side and started walking forward trying to get a better look at the persons face.
Kat was caught... she knew it... then again she was surprised Kyou hadn't put two and two together yet. She saw him start moving and leaned down, taking off the heels. Slowly raising herself up again she looked at him and for just a moment the moon made her eyes shine like a cats. "Who are you?" Kyou asked once had crossed half the roof. "Answer me!"
He seemed angry, that amused the American feline a little. She took a step back towards the edge of the roof. No one could ever say that she wasn't good at making an entrance... or an exit. "I don't think so." The orange haired boy growled and charged.
"I'll go up and get her." Kahlan sighed. "The last thing we need is Kat and Kyou fighting." Kal opened the back door and walked out onto the porch in time to hear, from up on the roof, "I don't think so!" He looked up in time to see Kat jump backward off the roof. The cow watched, almost as if in slow motion, the girl lean back and turn the leap into a back flip and then land softly on her feet on the ground in front of him. She was instantly up again as she bolted into the house and ran over to Isa, playfully hiding behind her as another figure landed on the ground outside. Kyou went to charge after her but got a fist full of Kahlan instead. The blue haired youth had only wished for that good of an opportunity to kick Kyou's ass again. Kyou stumbled back a few steps and looked into the now well lit house. He couldn't hide the shock on his face at seeing the girls there. His eyes settled on Kat, who was still behind Isa leaning on her shoulder.
"Stay away from her." Kahlan growled at the same time Kagura yelled "KYOU!!!" and ran across the room pouncing on him. This time he was too stunned to protest. Meanwhile, Dani took the opportunity to cross to where Kat was, a scowl planted on his face.
"I would think you had more sense then to go along with this idiocy Katie." It angered him to see the glare returned in his sibling's eyes.
"Mind your own business Daniel. I am hardly in the right attire to kick your ass but I will if I have to."
"Like you could!" Dani was in a foul mood, the tenseness between Kyou and Kahlan had made him volatile and she had merely lit the flame. He knew what to do to piss her off, and at the moment he wanted a fight.
"That sounds like a challenge brother dear." There was venom in her words as she stepped out from behind Isa. She had been playing before, but Dani was wearing her temper down drastically quickly.
"I can wipe the floor with you any day, stupid cat." The American rat's voice had risen enough that the rest of the room fell silent. Kyou shoved Kagura off him and stood to help his twin sign, but he had not taken more then a step when Tohru walked in-between the two.
"Please stop." She said looking at the boy, "you can't fight. Caitlin is hurt still and if you two fought she wouldn't be able to heal." And Daniel did stop; he stared at the brunette, a look of mild surprise on his face. His eyes slowly moved to Kat.
"I thought you said earlier that you were fine?" He still seemed upset, but the anger was gone.
"She's --" Tohru was cut off by Kagura's hand as she slipped by Kyou and smiled at Dani.
"She's much better now, don't worry about it. Tohru tends to exaggerate a little, since she cares so much. Since everyone is here, we'll go make tea." And before the riceball could utter another word Kagura had dragged her off into the kitchen.
"Caitlin?" The twins stared at each other. The cat shrugged.
"You heard Kagura; she has the right of it." With a shake of her head, the blond turned and headed for the stairs.
"Where are you going?" Isa asked what was on most of their minds.
"To the roof, I'm too tired to deal with this. I'll come down once tea is ready." With out turning around for the reply, Kat disappeared around a corner.
Kyou stepped out onto the porch and climbed onto the first rung of the ladder. He could hear his friend's voice drifting down on the wind. The words however were to quiet to make out. He stepped up until his head had peeked over the room and listened again. "I thought I'd found a place to stay. I knew that I was safe there. In your arms, wrapped in your embrace. It felt so warm, like home. I was not alone. But then you--" she stopped singing when the ladder creaked.
He didn't want her to stop, not that he was gong to admit that. "Um... hey... So... why did you guys come?" He asked from the ladder. Kat turned her face half towards him, she had heard someone coming up and made an educated guess that it was the other cat.
"Isa wanted to cause trouble." Her reply was soft, tired almost.
"Why did you go too then?" The orange haired boy moved across the roof and sat down next to her. She just shrugged,
"don't know. Wish I hadn't though. All I ever seem to do is cause trouble."
"Shut up!" Kyou snapped and instantly regretted it as those intense blue eyes turned towards him. "I mean... don't say things like that." When she looked at him like that it made him feel... naked. Like she could see right through him. "You didn't cause any trouble and it's nice to have you here... I mean..." he stared up at the stars, "never mind."
"No it's okay. Thanks, for that." She smiled and rested her hand over his. Kyou blinked and turned back to find her still staring at him.
"Um... you're welcome." He found himself smiling back, a small smile, but there none the less.
"So why did you come up here?"
"To tell you that tea was ready."
"Oh... okay. I suppose they want me to come back down?" Kat's voice drifted off as she stared up. Kyou followed her gaze.
"Yea. I guess. Um... say Kat..." This time he was the one who didn't finish.
"Yes?" She had turned back to look at him. The Japanese feline couldn't meet her gaze, so instead he focused on the space of roof that their hands occupied, not that it helped.
"It's just that... Well... Are you really okay? What I mean is... I know that Kagura was just covering for you. It was obvious. What is it that you don't want your brother to know? I mean... you don't have to tell me, but if you want to..." He stopped again, looking frustrated.
"Don't worry Kyou, I'm okay, really. Tohru just over reacted is all, nothing to worry about." This time he did look up, and their eyes met, he nodded slightly to show that he had heard her; though try as he might he couldn't think of what to say. There was just something about the way she looked at that moment that made him realize she was beautiful. He suddenly remembered the way Kahlan had called her the love of his life; it was as if Kyou had suddenly realized why. The way her eyes shined and her hair framed her face. The way she moved, with a somewhat dangerous appeal. The way her lips moved, coated in red the color of blood. The way her voice could be like music floating on the wind...
"Hmm?" Kyou shook his head as if to clear it. "What did you say?" She rewarded him with a grin and a small laugh.
"I asked if there was something on your mind."
"Oh no, its nothing... just tired I guess." He turned hoping that the heat in his cheeks was not visible. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, steadying his heart which was beating faster than normal.
"Well in that case, we should go downstairs I guess." He nodded, not risking his voice just yet.
"By the way, I hope we didn't ruin anything by showing up."
"Nah, if anything it will be better now." Kyou replied shaking his head. "Um... I wanted to tell you... you look really nice." He paused for a moment.
"Thank you Kyou. Though I sense a 'but' coming." He smiled; it was uncanny how well she seemed to know him.
"Yea well... I was going to say that I like your normal clothes better. No offence."
She laughed, "none taken. So do I." She stood and held out her hand. He stared at it for a moment before looking at her.
"What?" He raised an eyebrow in question.
"We're going back downstairs right?" She grinned.
"Oh, right." He grabbed her hand and only then hesitated. It seemed such a natural thing to do that it hadn't occurred to him how many hands he had shoved away when they were offered. Pushing himself to his feet he let go and began walking towards the ladder. "I should warn you. Isabella and Shigure seemed to have decided on their own that everyone is staying here tonight." He heard her sigh from behind him before she caught up to match his stride.
"Well that sounds like Isa to me." She shook her head. "So I guess it's time to face the firing squad."
"You're telling me, I don't know how much more of those rats I can take." Kyou hissed.
"Don't worry," she replied looking up at him from the ladder. "I'll be there to back you up." And with a smile she hopped onto the porch and walked into the room. Kyou paused on the top rung. I've never had anyone to back me up before. Why is it that she seems to catch me off guard with half the things she says? And when she goes back to America...
"Hey Red, hurry up." Kat called from inside.
"Coming." Kyou hopped off the ladder and followed the female into the house.
Diner was long over and between the four girls; the dishes had been done quickly. Now they sat around in the living room drinking tea, and coffee for Kat... she never was a tea person. "So... I was thinking." Isa said with a mischievous glint in her eyes.
"Oh God Isa... what ever it is NO." Kat sighed and took another long sip of the coffee; she was starting to think she was going to need it.
"Aww.... Come on Katie, you haven't even heard my idea yet." Isa whined.
"I'm curious." Kagura grinned at the dog.
"It couldn't hurt to hear it." Tohru added while placing her tea cup down.
"Yay." Isa clapped her hands and gave her cousin a loving but evil smile. Kat just shook her head a smiled back. "I was just wondering what Kagura and Tohru would look like if they were dressed well... more American." The two girls looked at each other then back at Isa. Caitlin raised an eyebrow, it sounded innocent enough, but nothing was EVER innocent with Isa. Then again... it would give her a chance to show up that damn boar. Kat inclined her head with a smile.
"What an interesting idea Isa." The dog looked a little surprised.
"Oh... well I'm glad you like it. Cause here's the deal..." Now Isa was grinning again. "We pick out outfits for them but then they get to do the same for us." Kat pondered that, how bad could it be... after all... this was HER house... so most of the stuff in it was hers. With a slow nod to her cousin.
"Deal." The cat stood and extended a hand.
"Tohru you go with Kat and you Kagura can come with me." Isa stood as well.
"Cool, this is going to be fun." Kagura jumped up. The riceball was a little more nervous however and got to her feet slowly.
"Come on doll, I don't bite." Kat gave her a genuine smile that seemed to calm her down a bit. Isa and Kagura had already disappeared up the stairs when Kat and Tohru got to her room on the first floor (it was decided that she should stay there from now on... incase she wanted to jump out windows again).
"Thank you for having us over, and picking us up." Tohru added quietly.
"Hey, no thanks necessary." Kat paused and looked over at her. "I'm not really used to having friends, especially ones that aren't Sohma's, so sorry if I seem a little out of it. I mean in truth, I guess I am a little out of it." Kat was surprised when the riceball closed the gap between them and gave her a hug.
"I'm glad to have you as a friend." She smiled.
"Yea, me too." Kat said as she slowly returned the hug. The blond slid the door open and walked in to the room, Tohru following behind. The twins were seated on the bed and jumped up when their sister walked in.
"Katie!" They ran over to her and pounced on her dragging her down closer to their height.
"Hey'a kits, what'cha doing in here?" She sat Mary on her lap and ruffled Regene's hair.
"We just wanted to say hello to Miss. Honda, and ask if you would tuck us in." Regene smiled.
"Well hello then." Tohru smiled at the girls and sat down next to Kat. They let go of their sister and hugged the riceball as well, who seemed to forget all her worries in the face of the children. "Oh, you two are so cute." They giggled and hugged her harder.
"You can help tuck us in too." Mary added.
"Yea, Katie won't mind." Regene smiled.
"Hah... Making the poor girl suffer like that." Kat grinned at the twins.
"Aww Katie." "Katie that's mean." The girls turned to their sister and only made her laugh harder.
"Sure, I'd love to help." Tohru added as she looked at her new friend. Their little cheers went up as they ran out of her room and into the room they shared with their father.
"Come on," Kat said as she stood. "Looks like you've been roped in too." The riceball followed her across the hall.
"I don't see how anyone could turn them down, they're so adorable." That got the blond laughing.
"Yea, we know, that's the problem... no one can EVER say no to them." The brunette laughed as well. The twins reminded her of Kisa.
Dressed in their night gowns the little ones where already sitting together in one large bed.
"All right kittens lay down." Kat said as she sat down on the side and leaned in to give each one a kiss. Tohru stood near the wall and watched them, she found herself wondering how many different facets Kat had in her personality. She watched as the older smoothed down the hair of the girls and pulled the covers up to their chins. The two curled up together at watched their sister with sparkling eyes. "Okay then, one last thing." Kat added with a smile as she turned off the light and left only a few candles to keep the shadows at bay. She took a small breath and sang a lullaby to them.
Goodnight, sleep tight, no more tears
In the morning I'll be here
And when we say goodnight, dry your eyes
Because we said goodnight and not goodbye
We said goodnight and not goodbye
Giving them each one last hug, she whispered goodnight to them and stood. "Good night Katie, good night Miss. Honda." They said as she got to the door.
"Good night Miss Mary, good night Miss Regene." Tohru said with a wave as she followed the other girl out and watched, as the door was quietly slid shut. Kat led them back into her room before speaking again.
"Thanks, they love the attention." She shot a smile to the riceball as she started looking through the closet for good attire for Tohru.
"I really don't think you needed my help, but I was glad to be there." Tohru was looking around the room and had to admit to herself that she was mildly pleased with its cleanliness. Kat glanced back at Tohru for a moment and looked the girl over.
"Pants or skirt?" The riceball blinked in a confused fashion. "For your outfit?" Kat smiled.
"Oh... well I don't care. You can pick." She said, some of her earlier shyness creeping back up.
"All right then." Kat turned back to the closet. The rice ball glanced over at the bed-table and saw a single picture on it. Taking a closer look, she easily recognized 3 of the 5 figures in it as Kat, her brother, and her father, even if the cat and the rat were only about Mary and Regene's age. She guessed the woman that was held in Alexander's arms was his late wife Marilyn. But the other boy she had no clue about, he looked to be about 16 or 17 in the picture with short sandy blond hair and cold ice blue eyes. He stood slightly apart from the family and did not look happy to be there.
"Um... excuse me Kat?" The blond looked over. "Who is the other boy in this picture; I assumed that the woman was your mother?" Kat stopped what she was doing and walked over to look at the picture.
"Yea, that was my mom. That picture was taken when the family went to Disney Land for the first time." She gazed into the picture for a long time. "The other person is Marcus... the old Head of the Family." At that, she went back to the closet. Tohru put the picture back down and looked at it some more. Kat pulled out a white dress that she would only normally have worn on stage, but she had a feeling it would suit Tohru. The classic "gothic Lolita" style of it was something that Isa had convinced the band to do for their last show before they left California. Kat had only worn the dress once, but she brought it out and laid it on the bed. Seeing Tohru still looking at the picture she frowned. "Marcus was our older brother." She clarified. Tohru's eyes moved up to her knew friend and she saw that careful mask again. The riceball remembered the American Rat's words. "Marcus wanted Katie dead from the moment she was born." How sad, so not only was she hated by the Head of the family, but also, he was her own brother. Finally the cat smiled, "come on, time to play dress up. I'll even get a picture so Yuki can see how great you're gonna look." And just like that, the subject had passed.
"Oh no... Yuki wouldn't think that." Tohru blushed as the blond laughed.
"Right kid." She held her hand out with the dress. "We'll just see about that."
A few minutes later Tohru was seated in a chair fully dressed, even down to white thigh high suede boots, allowing Kat to apply some small touches of makeup. "You really do look awesome, you should get dressed up more often, have that rat take you out to dinner or something."
"Oh no I could never ask that... I mean Yuki and Shigure and Kyou have all been so kind to me. I could never ask for anything more." Kat just smiled and shook her head.
"Well take a look." She took Tohru's hand and pulled her out of the chair and over to a long mirror. The dress was modest enough to still be decent, but it showed off her curves more than ANYTHING she would have bought. It came down to her mid thigh and met the boots almost perfectly. Kat had brushed out her hair, and the makeup made her eyes look a little deeper and her lips a little larger. "See, stunning." The cat smiled at a job well done.
"Th- thank you." The riceball stammered, completely unsure of how she was supposed to act.
A knock on the door drew their attention as Isa walked in. "Ladies, may I present Kagura Souma." She said with a bow of flourish. Kagura walked in dressed in an ankle length black skirt and a black Chinese style corset with blue vines on it. Isa had done her hair and make up so well that the boar could have easily pulled off 23 or 24 years old.
"Oh Tohru, you look so cute." Kagura darted over to her friend and each admired the other's outfits. Kat however, got the opportunity to take a good look at Isa. Kagura had apparently chosen to let Isa wear her school uniform. Which on Isabella who was taller and well, a little curvier, just looked shameless. The skirt was shorter and the top tight enough that it showed off her stomach. Kat's eyebrow twitched as she hung her head.
"You're hopeless you damn dog."
"Who me?" Isa's mock exasperation was amusing as she giggled. "I think it looks cute. Besides, I don't see you dressed yet." The cat shook her head.
"Well Tohru and I got to talking, and besides, I had to put the twins to bed."
"Well then kiddo, lets get you dressed and then I can get my camera." Isa grinned. "AND, since Kagura is here as well, they both can pick your outfit." Kat twitched again.
"Yea, come on Tohru." Kagura dragged the mildly whimpering riceball (she wasn't used to all the attention) over to the closet. Kat and Isa were staring at each other in silence, Kat knew that the dog HAD to be up to something... nothing with Isabella was ever EVER this childlike. What is that damn dog planning?
"What about this?" Tohru said from the other side of the room. Caitlin turned around to see Tohru holding up a simple, sleeveless, red dress, plain and unadorned the dress had belonged to her mother and was what she wore the to the New Years Celebration before she died. Kat nodded.
"Okay." Walking over she took the dress from Tohru and laid it on the bed, finding shoes to match. The cat hesitated for a moment and debated asking the others to leave, but just gave up on it. She slid out of the white dress shirt and heard Tohru gasp.
"Oh my god what happened? Are you okay?" The riceball had walked over and placed a hand on her shoulder. Kat gave her a smile as she stretched the stitches in her back. She could feel them healing, only another week or so and Hatori would be able to remove them, once again, she praised her quick healing factor.
"Yea, they're old. Don't worry about it." She honestly wondered if the girl would believe her. "From running around through the woods and all." She added, turning so her back was too the wall as she finished getting undressed. Tohru actually seemed to buy the story and Isa was staring at the floor; but Kagura was looking at her, giving her the "I know you're lying look." The boar didn't need to stare at the other girl to know what was going on, she had been living at the Main House with Akito long enough to make connections. She was certain that the stitched wounds were indeed new, but anyone who knew what to look for would have seen the older scars as well. Kat slipped the dress over her head and turned her back to Tohru.
"You wanna zip that up?" She felt the girl's touch, feather light, and for some reason it made her angry. "It's okay ya know. I'm not gonna break." She glanced over her shoulder and saw the dark haired girl nod.
"Hey Kat, let me do your make up." Isa said with a smile changing the subject and finally looking at her cousin again. Isa wasn't stupid; she had always known what was going on, her and Kahlan. But they had a silent agreement with the cat, never to say anything to anyone.
After finishing make up, Isa curled her hair so that it fell around her shoulders in thick waves and added a crimson shawl from her collection of oddities. "You know love..." Isa smiled as she turned her cousin to the mirror. "You really do look just like your mother." Caitlin gave her cousin a smile. "Now then, why don't I get some pictures before we—"she stopped. Kat turned a grin to Isa.
"Before we what Isa?"
"Oh nothing." The dog smiled and looked at the suddenly very interesting ceiling.
"ISA!" Kat's voice grew a little louder. Kagura and Tohru exchanged a glance.
"Well I was just wondering you know... what the boys were doing." She tried to pull off an innocent look and failed.
"HAH! I knew you were plotting something." Kat pointed a finger at her cousin.
"I wouldn't say plotting... more like planning... it sounds nicer." Isa nodded triumphantly.
"And let me guess... you thought that MAYBE we should go make sure they aren't getting into trouble." Kat added.
"Ah, my wonderful little cousin, you know me far too well." Isa threw her arm around her cousin's shoulder.
"You have no idea." Kat replied blandly.
But somehow, with in a few minutes Isa had convinced Kagura (not that much convincing was necessary there) and Tohru (that one was harder) that it was a wonderful idea. And with the help of the other two, Kat was convinced to go along with the little adventure; though according to the blond, it was ONLY because someone needed to drive and no one was safe with Isa. So after Isa had fun with pictures... the four, dressed up, girls piled into the black convertible (top up this time) and started over to Shigure's house to give the boys a surprise.
"I wonder what the girls are doing." Shigure sighed and rested his chin in his hands. "I bet they're having much more fun that we are." Yuki shrugged in response.
"This wasn't my idea... So if you have a plan, go ahead and voice it." The violet eyed boy glanced out the window. "Just don't be surprised if no one else likes the idea."
"That's a little harsh Yuki." Kahlan said in a bored fashion as he looked at his nails. Kal had been sitting against the wall all evening, except for dinner, sulking and avoiding Kyou; which thankfully wasn't hard, since the cat had opted to spend most of the night on the roof. But he came down for dinner, and had been down ever since then, which made the tension in the room nearly unbearable for the other members of the Zodiac. Yuki found himself glad that the American Cow didn't have a "black side" or the house would be in pieces by now... then again, so would his rival... and that wasn't such a bad thing. Kyou was lying by the door, his second favorite spot in the house, thoroughly ignoring everyone.
"We should play a game." Shigure chimed.
"That's a stupid idea." This coming from Kyou, who hadn't moved.
"What did you have in mind Shigure?" Daniel asked from where he was seated next to Yuki. The two had been talking off and on all night and seemed to be the only ones in the house who were actually DOING anything. Once they figured out what subjects were bad to broach with the other, they seemed to get along impeccably. Shigure grinned.
"Well I don't know, what kind of games to you play in America for situations like this one Dani?" The white rat shrugged and grew pensive for a moment.
"I really don't exactly do things like this very often," the blond seemed out of his element so to speak. "Usually we just tell stories or something like that."
"Oh what a great idea." The dog beamed and clasped his hands together. "Since I'm a novelist I would be great at that." Dani raised an eyebrow, god he DOES sound like Isa. Now wonder that batty canine gets along with him.
"Not that kind of stories you pervert..." Kahlan had spoken again; his mood was getting surlier and surlier as the night went on. Dani frowned; maybe he should just kill the cat and get it over with. At least that way the rest of us won't have to deal with it. "You're sexual exploits are of no interests to us." Kal snarled. Shigure looked as if he would play back with the cow but decided against it after a getting a glare from Yuki.
"You know you're really starting to piss me off." Kyou shouted as he pushed himself up into a sitting position and glared at the blue haired youth.
"Well it's about damn time you said something useful." Kahlan pushed himself off the wall at the same time Kyou jumped to his feet. The rest of the room waited and watched, half expecting to see an explosion go off before they ever even reached other.
"Please don't break the house." Shigure said in a rather meek voice.
"Listen here you stupid cat, I can wipe the floor with you any day." Kal grabbed Kyou by the color of his shirt.
"Like hell you can... you're pathetic and probably no better in a fight then my cousin Haru. I haven't done a damn thing to you, and you think you can come in here and—" Kahlan cut him off by punching him in the stomach. Kyou took a step back and growled before lunging at the other boy. Kyou got off a few good hits before Kal started dodging efficiently, but the cow hadn't gotten off another hit yet either.
"Thank god Tohru isn't here." Yuki mumbled.
"I would have to agree." Shigure had gone serious on them.
"Should we stop them?" Dani had stood with the other two and watched orange and blue fight. "I don't think they're playing Yuki. Not like you and Kyou, or me and my sister. I really think they are out for blood."
Yuki shrugged. "I really don't care, though if I had to route for one it would be Kahlan, that stupid cat deserves what he gets." Dani frowned.
"Never the less, perhaps you are right young Daniel." Shigure added in a quieter tone that lacked its normal enthusiasm. "If you can restrain your cousin, I think Yuki and I can get Kyou."
"Why do I have to help?" Yuki raised an eyebrow at the dog.
"Because if Kyou and Kahlan get hurt because you wouldn't help stop them from fighting I think Tohru will be very upset." The rat glared.
"I hate you sometimes Shigure." With that said Yuki walked up behind Kyou and grabbed him around the shoulders pulling him back. Kahlan used the opportunity to hit the cat one more solid time in the stomach before Daniel got a hold of him and pulled him away from the other Souma.
"Let me go you damn Rat!" Kyou snarled at the same time Kahlan yelled. "Knock it off Dani; let me go so I can kill that jerk." Shigure walked in between the pairs and held up his arms.
"Both of you calm down please." The dog's eyes narrowed. "Think of how upset Tohru and Caitlin will be if they find out about this." That seemed to calm both parties down.
"Fine." Kahlan mumbled as he shook off his cousin's grip and went to sit back against the wall.
"Whatever." Kyou wrenched his arms out of Yuki's hands and stalked up the stairs, undoubtedly going to the roof.
"Maybe we should just put on the TV." Yuki said with a sigh... he really did hope that Tohru's night was turning out better than his was. The screen came on with a click and a newscaster's face flooded the picture.
"A string of robberies has cursed the town as yet another family was attacked during the night while they slept. The culprit is still at large and people are advised to take extra precautions. So lock your doors and windows folks, the police are working diligently to solve these crimes."
Yuki blinked, "maybe not," and clicked off the TV.
"Did that woman say robberies?" Kahlan looked over at Dani from where he sat. "You don't think the girls are in danger do you?" He sounded concerned, completely different from the volatile young man of earlier.
"I'm sure they are fine Kal. After all, Katie IS there... and she's much meaner to strangers than she is with the rest of her family. Somehow I think anyone who broke into the house would be begging to leave before she was done with them." Dani cracked a smile as Kahlan scowled, they're fine I'm sure... Isa's watching them... and Father is there as well. Yes, I'm sure that there is nothing to worry about.
Yuki glanced back at the black television screen. Tohru would be safe with them, there are plenty of people at Alexander's home to look out for her. And since she won't be the one answering the doors everything will be just fine.
Shigure smirked to himself, I wonder what kind of cruel prank I can play on these kids. He snickered and smiled making his plans.
Up on the roof Kyou stared at the stars and the moon. What is wrong with that idiot? What the hell did I do to get him all pissed off at me? I would have had him had Yuki not got in the way. Those damn rats... that's all they ever do is get in the way. I'm going to get him one of these days. Suddenly the feline realized he was thinking about his American counter part. The way she had smiled at him and told him that she was certain he would beat Yuki when the time came. No one had ever spoken like that to him before, not even his Master... How was he supposed to react to that? What was he supposed to do about that girl? Kyou rubbed his eyes and rolled onto his side, resting his head on his arm, content to just think for a while and enjoy the piece and quiet of the night sky.
"Come on Kat, go faster." Isa chided from the passenger seat.
"Shut up Isa, I'm not like you; I prefer to live through my driving experiences." Kat replied slyly with a smile to her cousin.
"I think Caitlin is quite right." Tohru added from the back seat.
"Aww come on Tohru... this is fun." Kagura cheered and grinned as she stuck her arm out the window of the convertible and let the wind run along her hand.
"I am having fun Kagura; I just hope we don't get into trouble for all of this." Tohru was worried; then again that was the riceball's nature.
"Never fear Tohru dear... "Isabella grinned at her own rhyme. "We'll be fine. I promise." As they neared Shigure's house Kat slowed the car and turned off the headlights, relying on her night vision to guide her. Isa watched her cousin as bright blue bleed to red and spread to cover her whole eye. It was one of the few features of the Zodiac Cat that didn't frighten Caitlin, and hence it was one of the only things that she would allow herself to do.
The blond pulled the car to a stop before the last bend that would lead to the house and shut it off. "Well ladies, it's by foot from here." Kat said as she slid of the drivers seat and settled the stiletto heels on the dirt path. "And please Isa, remind me next time to wear more comfortable shoes." She muttered as she pulled the seat forward for Tohru and Kagura.
"What are you planning Kat?" This time it was the dog who asked.
"Nothing, but if we've gotten this far then by god we're going to do this right." She flashed the three girls a smile.
"What did you have in mind?" Kagura could barely contain her excitement, it made Kat a little twitchy, but never the less she shrugged.
"Hasn't anyone been paying attention to the news?"
"No and why should I?" Isa looped an arm around her cousin's waist. Kat just sighed and patted Isa on the head the way she would Mary and Regene.
"I have actually. Why, what is it that you were looking for?" Tohru added, still fidgeting in the new clothes.
"Wasn't there something about a string of robberies?" Kat asked with a wry smile. The rice ball nodded. "Well then, we're going to play a little joke on the boyo's." Kat hopped up onto the hood of the car and sat there with her legs crossed. Isa mused that there was something dangerously attractive about her cousin when she looked like that. "Tohru, when I tell you too, you and Kagura are merely going to sneak into the house and head up to Tohru's room. That should cause sufficient confusion. The boyo's will have no idea what is going on." With a grin like the Cheshire, Kat leaned forward.
"But won't they see us come in?" Kagura asked.
"They won't be able to see anything." Isa added, suddenly realizing what Caitlin was planning to do. "You want me to pull a Sway?" She glanced at the other girl.
"That's the idea... you think you can do it with out help?"
Isabella bowed in flourish, "of course I can... for I am Isabella the Amazing." Kat covered her mouth to stifle a giggle.
"Well then, let's go." Kat slid off the car hood, brushed out the red dress and flashed them all a white smile. "Follow me ladies." With the blond in the lead the four girls snuck around the side of the house. Isabella gave them all a wave before separating and going the other way to find the fuse box.
Humming quietly to herself Isa opened the box. "Now then... let's see... one, no not you." She looked over all the fuses. "Two... perhaps... you... maybe... no..." She shrugged... "Well, Sway would say if you don't know it... improvise." And with that the auburn haired canine flicked a switch, a grinned when all the lights suddenly went out. "Bingo." She smiled and leaned back against the wall to wait for a signal from her cousin. She realized now that Kat had given them all tasks... well all expect for her. What was she planning to do?
"What the hell was that?" Kahlan jumped to his feet just as the lights went out. "This is so not funny you stupid cat!" He yelled loudly.
"Kahlan, stop it." Dani shot back. A silence filled the room. "Okay, Yuki where are you?"
"I'm right here next to you." The silver haired boy replied as he laid a hand on the other rats shoulder. "What about you Shigure?" Yuki spoke in his normal calm voice.
"Just where I was before." The novelist replied.
"See I told you... that leaves that ass Kyou." Just as he said that there was a thump on the roof. "Come down here you bastard... this is not funny. Someone could get hurt."
"Who are you yelling at?" The voice came from the direction of the stairs, but it was unmistakably Kyou. "Don't go blaming this one on me. I was on my way down here to tell Shigure that I thought I saw something moving around outside, but when I got back in the lights went out. So I don't want to hear it."
"But wait... if we are all down here... then who is up on the roof?" Dani said what everyone was thinking.
"It doesn't matter... I am going to go turn the lights back on." There was suddenly a flash of light as the dog illuminated his face with a flash light. "I will be back in a moment."
"Right." Kyou muttered.
"Don't fear children, I shall return and protect you from the Robbers." Shigure made his dramatic speech as Kyou, at least he assumed it was Kyou, threw something at his head. The dog dodged but with out light had no way of telling what had been thrown. Opening the door, Shigure walked out of the house and around the side of the building.
Kagura and Tohru watched as Shigure walked out the back door and disappeared around the side of the house. "Here's our chance Tohru, let's go." The boar grinned.
"Are you sure we won't get into trouble." The rice ball was getting more and more nervous.
"Positive." Together the two crept to the front door and snuck inside. Creeping up the stairs and trying to make as little noise as possible. When the stairs creaked they heard Yuki's voice.
"Shigure, is that you?" Tohru almost called back but Kagura put her finger to the rice balls lips and shushed.
"Hey... Shigure!" That time it was Kahlan. The girls took another step up the stairs before they creaked again and they were forced to stop.
"Maybe this would be a bad time to mention this." Daniel's voice was quieter than the others had been. "But I think there is someone in the house." As if on cue the sound of footsteps on the roof was heard again.
"Don't look at me blue boy..." Kyou shouted. "I'm still here."
"So there is someone on the roof..." Yuki added.
"... and someone inside." Dani commented.
From outside the house they heard Shigure scream, and then silence.
"Oh that was wonderful Gure." Isa smiled as she leaned against him. Shigure was laughing. As soon as he had stumbled upon Isa and the fuse box he could not help but having a piece of the fun. They had turned the tables and this time all the kids were going to be embarrassed.
"Ah, and what fun this is. I'm glad you decided to drop by Isa." He smiled.
"So am I... I just hope the others agree when we're done with them." The dog laughed quietly.
"By the way... you look stunning... but why are you wearing a High School Uniform?" Isa gave him a fake pout.
"Aww, don't you like it Gure?" The Japanese Dog could only smile.
"That's it.... I'm going to fix this problem once and for all." Kyou growled as he headed for the stairs, bumping into the wall in the process and growling. Kagura pushed Tohru against the wall and they stayed perfectly still as Kyou climbed the stairs right past them. Deciding that discretion was the better part of valor, they slid back down the stairs and glanced into the living room. Suddenly they heard another thump on the roof, one that signaled Kyou was going after the "robber."
Kyou climbed out his bedroom window and up the ladder onto the roof. After shooting a quick glance around the roof and seeing no one, he moved forward and continued looking around.
Isa giggled and wrapped her arms around Shigure's neck. "Now?" She whispered, her lips dangerously close to his ear. He nodded,
"Now is good."
With Kyou gone, Kagura tugged on Tohru's arm. As they slowly got to their feet and went to begin creeping again, the lights suddenly came back on. Leaving them in plain sight of three very startled boys.
"M—Miss Honda?" Yuki's eyes were wide. Tohru turned a bright color of scarlet and looked down at the ground. The violet eyed boy couldn't believe his eyes, he didn't know what to say, there were so many questions he COULD have had... if she hadn't looked so damn beautiful in the strange outfit she was wearing.
"Miss Honda, Miss Kagura... what are you doing here?" Kahlan tilted his head to the side.
"And if you're here, where are my sister and Isa?" Dani added suddenly narrowing his eyes.
"We're sorry," the boar said with a huge grin on face. "We just wanted to have a little fun. It was Isa's idea."
"I'm sorry Yuki." Tohru mumbled while still staring at the floor.
"No, it's okay." Yuki managed to say back, mouth still agape.
"Oh was it." Dani looked around upon hearing Kagura's explanation. "ISABELLA!!!" He yelled. "Where are you!?!?!" Twin sets of laugher erupted from the door way as Isa and Shigure walked in arm-in-arm.
"Aww you're no fun Dani." Isa mock pouted.
"You were in on this?" Yuki glared at the male dog. The two only laughed harder.
"Somewhat... but don't you just look lovely Tohru." Shigure said with a grin and a wink to Yuki. "I don't think I've seen Yuki blush like that in ages." The color in the rat's cheeks got darker as the riceball looked up.
"S-so you're not mad?" She said quietly.
"Mad! Me? Of course not..." Shigure grinned. Dani cut in shaking his head.
"Just because you wanted to cause trouble Isa, didn't mean you had to drag everyone else along... you're hopeless." Isa started laughing aging.
"But we had so much fun scaring you guys... it wasn't till Gure and I turned on the lights and decided to catch all of you that I really made trouble." She gave her cousin a sarcastic smile. Kagura and Tohru just looked at her, disappointed that she managed to fool them as well.
"Fine," Daniel sighed... "Wait a minute... where is my sister?" His eyes narrowed.
Kat cringed as she heard Dani yelling for Isa... well it seemed that their game was over. She walked over to the edge of the roof and looked over it. "Hey!" Yelled a familiar male voice from behind her. She stood up strait, but kept her back to him.
Kyou took a moment to look over the "robber." HE may have not heard Daniel, but he was having a hard time believing that someone would rob a house in heels. Heels... that meant the person was a girl... or Aya. He watched the figure slowly turn around, framed in the shadows of the full moon behind her. The wind on the roof was enough to blow her hair across her face as deep red lips smiled at him. Kyou tilted his head to the side and started walking forward trying to get a better look at the persons face.
Kat was caught... she knew it... then again she was surprised Kyou hadn't put two and two together yet. She saw him start moving and leaned down, taking off the heels. Slowly raising herself up again she looked at him and for just a moment the moon made her eyes shine like a cats. "Who are you?" Kyou asked once had crossed half the roof. "Answer me!"
He seemed angry, that amused the American feline a little. She took a step back towards the edge of the roof. No one could ever say that she wasn't good at making an entrance... or an exit. "I don't think so." The orange haired boy growled and charged.
"I'll go up and get her." Kahlan sighed. "The last thing we need is Kat and Kyou fighting." Kal opened the back door and walked out onto the porch in time to hear, from up on the roof, "I don't think so!" He looked up in time to see Kat jump backward off the roof. The cow watched, almost as if in slow motion, the girl lean back and turn the leap into a back flip and then land softly on her feet on the ground in front of him. She was instantly up again as she bolted into the house and ran over to Isa, playfully hiding behind her as another figure landed on the ground outside. Kyou went to charge after her but got a fist full of Kahlan instead. The blue haired youth had only wished for that good of an opportunity to kick Kyou's ass again. Kyou stumbled back a few steps and looked into the now well lit house. He couldn't hide the shock on his face at seeing the girls there. His eyes settled on Kat, who was still behind Isa leaning on her shoulder.
"Stay away from her." Kahlan growled at the same time Kagura yelled "KYOU!!!" and ran across the room pouncing on him. This time he was too stunned to protest. Meanwhile, Dani took the opportunity to cross to where Kat was, a scowl planted on his face.
"I would think you had more sense then to go along with this idiocy Katie." It angered him to see the glare returned in his sibling's eyes.
"Mind your own business Daniel. I am hardly in the right attire to kick your ass but I will if I have to."
"Like you could!" Dani was in a foul mood, the tenseness between Kyou and Kahlan had made him volatile and she had merely lit the flame. He knew what to do to piss her off, and at the moment he wanted a fight.
"That sounds like a challenge brother dear." There was venom in her words as she stepped out from behind Isa. She had been playing before, but Dani was wearing her temper down drastically quickly.
"I can wipe the floor with you any day, stupid cat." The American rat's voice had risen enough that the rest of the room fell silent. Kyou shoved Kagura off him and stood to help his twin sign, but he had not taken more then a step when Tohru walked in-between the two.
"Please stop." She said looking at the boy, "you can't fight. Caitlin is hurt still and if you two fought she wouldn't be able to heal." And Daniel did stop; he stared at the brunette, a look of mild surprise on his face. His eyes slowly moved to Kat.
"I thought you said earlier that you were fine?" He still seemed upset, but the anger was gone.
"She's --" Tohru was cut off by Kagura's hand as she slipped by Kyou and smiled at Dani.
"She's much better now, don't worry about it. Tohru tends to exaggerate a little, since she cares so much. Since everyone is here, we'll go make tea." And before the riceball could utter another word Kagura had dragged her off into the kitchen.
"Caitlin?" The twins stared at each other. The cat shrugged.
"You heard Kagura; she has the right of it." With a shake of her head, the blond turned and headed for the stairs.
"Where are you going?" Isa asked what was on most of their minds.
"To the roof, I'm too tired to deal with this. I'll come down once tea is ready." With out turning around for the reply, Kat disappeared around a corner.
Kyou stepped out onto the porch and climbed onto the first rung of the ladder. He could hear his friend's voice drifting down on the wind. The words however were to quiet to make out. He stepped up until his head had peeked over the room and listened again. "I thought I'd found a place to stay. I knew that I was safe there. In your arms, wrapped in your embrace. It felt so warm, like home. I was not alone. But then you--" she stopped singing when the ladder creaked.
He didn't want her to stop, not that he was gong to admit that. "Um... hey... So... why did you guys come?" He asked from the ladder. Kat turned her face half towards him, she had heard someone coming up and made an educated guess that it was the other cat.
"Isa wanted to cause trouble." Her reply was soft, tired almost.
"Why did you go too then?" The orange haired boy moved across the roof and sat down next to her. She just shrugged,
"don't know. Wish I hadn't though. All I ever seem to do is cause trouble."
"Shut up!" Kyou snapped and instantly regretted it as those intense blue eyes turned towards him. "I mean... don't say things like that." When she looked at him like that it made him feel... naked. Like she could see right through him. "You didn't cause any trouble and it's nice to have you here... I mean..." he stared up at the stars, "never mind."
"No it's okay. Thanks, for that." She smiled and rested her hand over his. Kyou blinked and turned back to find her still staring at him.
"Um... you're welcome." He found himself smiling back, a small smile, but there none the less.
"So why did you come up here?"
"To tell you that tea was ready."
"Oh... okay. I suppose they want me to come back down?" Kat's voice drifted off as she stared up. Kyou followed her gaze.
"Yea. I guess. Um... say Kat..." This time he was the one who didn't finish.
"Yes?" She had turned back to look at him. The Japanese feline couldn't meet her gaze, so instead he focused on the space of roof that their hands occupied, not that it helped.
"It's just that... Well... Are you really okay? What I mean is... I know that Kagura was just covering for you. It was obvious. What is it that you don't want your brother to know? I mean... you don't have to tell me, but if you want to..." He stopped again, looking frustrated.
"Don't worry Kyou, I'm okay, really. Tohru just over reacted is all, nothing to worry about." This time he did look up, and their eyes met, he nodded slightly to show that he had heard her; though try as he might he couldn't think of what to say. There was just something about the way she looked at that moment that made him realize she was beautiful. He suddenly remembered the way Kahlan had called her the love of his life; it was as if Kyou had suddenly realized why. The way her eyes shined and her hair framed her face. The way she moved, with a somewhat dangerous appeal. The way her lips moved, coated in red the color of blood. The way her voice could be like music floating on the wind...
"Hmm?" Kyou shook his head as if to clear it. "What did you say?" She rewarded him with a grin and a small laugh.
"I asked if there was something on your mind."
"Oh no, its nothing... just tired I guess." He turned hoping that the heat in his cheeks was not visible. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, steadying his heart which was beating faster than normal.
"Well in that case, we should go downstairs I guess." He nodded, not risking his voice just yet.
"By the way, I hope we didn't ruin anything by showing up."
"Nah, if anything it will be better now." Kyou replied shaking his head. "Um... I wanted to tell you... you look really nice." He paused for a moment.
"Thank you Kyou. Though I sense a 'but' coming." He smiled; it was uncanny how well she seemed to know him.
"Yea well... I was going to say that I like your normal clothes better. No offence."
She laughed, "none taken. So do I." She stood and held out her hand. He stared at it for a moment before looking at her.
"What?" He raised an eyebrow in question.
"We're going back downstairs right?" She grinned.
"Oh, right." He grabbed her hand and only then hesitated. It seemed such a natural thing to do that it hadn't occurred to him how many hands he had shoved away when they were offered. Pushing himself to his feet he let go and began walking towards the ladder. "I should warn you. Isabella and Shigure seemed to have decided on their own that everyone is staying here tonight." He heard her sigh from behind him before she caught up to match his stride.
"Well that sounds like Isa to me." She shook her head. "So I guess it's time to face the firing squad."
"You're telling me, I don't know how much more of those rats I can take." Kyou hissed.
"Don't worry," she replied looking up at him from the ladder. "I'll be there to back you up." And with a smile she hopped onto the porch and walked into the room. Kyou paused on the top rung. I've never had anyone to back me up before. Why is it that she seems to catch me off guard with half the things she says? And when she goes back to America...
"Hey Red, hurry up." Kat called from inside.
"Coming." Kyou hopped off the ladder and followed the female into the house.