Disclaimer:
Not mine! This is a translation of a Chinese ShizNat fic from yamibo. For author details, please refer to the bottom of this page. Thanks.

Summary:
ShizNat. Post MyHime with some surprises.

Note:
I've taken the liberty to include remarks to clarify certain scenes for those who are confused or would like details. (Please ignore if your imagination managed to fill in the gap because these remarks are just my own deductions and might not reflect the author's original intent) These sections are marked with (-#-); refer to the bottom of the chapter for details

Extra Note:
All remarks inside ( ) (brackets) are Author's note.

When Natsuki meets Shizuru

Chapter 10 - Truth Revealed : Part 3

Authored by submerged

Translated by glowie

-x-x-x-x- Kuga's POV -x-x-x-x-

"...I guess this is probably how things came about." She ended her explanation by taking another sip at her tea before taking a casual glance at the two who are probably still trying to comprehend the situation. With unhurried grace, her attention were then turned towards me, "Natsuki-chan, do you want another cup?"

"Sure, thanks! Shizuru-onee-sama!" This morning's incident which had triggered a full-on alert on my 'Shizuru-senses' made me realized that Shizuru will always be Shizuru and I've learnt never to underestimate 'their' urges or their ever wandering 'hands'. It's best to keep the line clear to avoid any unnecessary complications.

"Ara, Natsuki-chan that is so cute! Please call me 'onee-sama' again!" That woman! She's didn't even have the decency to wait for the last of her words to sink in before encasing me snugly within her embrace. Sigh... why aren't I the least surprised?

Trying to wiggle myself free proved futile as its Shizuru I'm up against and like 'her', she can be childishly obstinate whenever she wanted to. Even though I feel much better now compared to yesterday, I'm definitely not keen to risk another rip to my wound. Lacking of a better option, I have no choice but to comply with her 'wishes' for now but I made sure I sent her my scowl to 'voice' my displeasure. It certainly didn't help when she glowered with pride, obviously pleased with my reactions.

-cough!- -cough!-

Thank goodness! Miss Maria's timely distraction manages to win me the blessed seconds to slip out of the embarrassing confinement. Stuck-up or not, I think I'm beginning to like that lady.

"Don't you think we should concentrate on the matters at hand?" Despite already stating her 'concerns', her lingering glare tells us she's still not happy with distance me and Shizuru are keeping at the moment.

"Ahh... so what you're saying is that this Gakuenchou isn't our Gakuenchou and the two somehow ended up in each other's bodies?" Youko, finally getting the idea, couldn't have budged in at a better time.

"Yes, that is correct." I said as I'm finally able to breathe easy, glad to be freed from Miss Maria's scrutinizing gaze. I reached for the cup of tea offered by Shizuru earlier and continued, "But I'm not any Gakuenchou."

"Youko-sensei, you do know how to get Natsuki back yes?" Shizuru's melodic accent rang with an icy-edge leaving no room for doubt that negative answers will not be well received. I'm really glad I'm not in or anywhere near Youko's shoe at the moment. This Shizuru is scary! I guess the Gakuenchou's dull perception isn't without its advantages.

Just when I thought it was safe, I was enveloped by a pair of hands from behind. I was left speechless while beads of cold sweat broke out and trailed down my forehead; the word 'clingy' comes to mind. Have I unknowingly unleashed something I shouldn't have?

"Ara, Natsuki-chan. You needn't be afraid; onee-sama will never let anyone bully you."

I could feel my veins thundering loudly at those insinuating words, in fact, I think I heard a few of them popping while they're at it. I could barely hold myself back from hollering, 'And just who would stop you from bullying me?!'

She's like a whole new being, a far-cry from yesterday. Although I should be happy that she's somewhat 'her usual self', I couldn't help but be worried for my own sake.

"Coming back to the issue at hand, Youko-sensei, do you have any ideas?" Sensing Shizuru's attention being directed back to Youko, I took the opportunity to once again, free myself from her grasp. I wouldn't be surprised if her outward 'playfulness' is just tactics to hide her worry and getting answers from Youko is her main concern.

As we all direct our attention towards Youko, I could almost hear her brain churning desperately for something intelligent to say. Shuttering, she managed a bad start, "Err... well... err..."

"Well?" Under Shizuru's 'subtle encouragement', a dam broke somewhere and I saw Youko's eyes lit up.

"Do you remember the time when I've talked about the existence of parallel universes?" Her eyes were brimming with excitement. Confidence ooze from her now that she's 'swimming' in familiar territory and having our pooled attention only serve to widen her already proud smirk further.

"That is to say, our world and Kuga-san's world exists on the same parallel timeline. Due to some unknown reasons, Miss Kuga and the Gakuenchou's conscience have collided causing them to end up in each other's body." she concluded her theory.

"Again with the unknown reasons?"

Shizuru's simple words easily popped Youko's bubble of invincibility. Now, a mere mortal, she's once again susceptible to the spine-chilling gaze of dissapproval which is currently solely focused at her.

"Well... Viola-sama, I'm sure you are aware that as of now we have already discovered 89 parallel universes, which I believe is just the tip of the iceberg. It would take time to find the cause for this incident."

"In that case..." Crimson orbs flicker dangerously, their owner's intent fiercely clear.

"Yes... I'm on it right away." Youko didn't need any more 'persuasion' to be well on her way; glad to be out of the room and being far, far away from the threat.

"Ara, that was quick... ". She lazily commented while she watches Youko's hasty retreat as if she had nothing to do with it.

"How unfortunate, I was hoping she would be able to help Natsuki-chan to change her bandages. I guess I have no choice but to offer my assistance."

"No!!" I eventually responded.

Hrmmpph... so THAT's your real intention in sending Youko off! Why you...

"Ikezu, Natsuki-chan has grown tired of me already?" Hah! No way am I going to fall for the teary-eyed act!

I watched as she slowly moves towards me. With her each advancing step, I took the necessary adjustment, whimpering like a scared puppy, away from her.

Argh! Is this payback for yesterday? Sensing the impending 'danger', I kept retreating until... nothing...

Just as I was falling off the bed, I was swept up bridal style by Shizuru in one swift sure move. "Ara, Natsuki-chan should really learn to take good care of her 'body'." she said non-repentantly as she places me back onto the bed.

Hrmpph! Please, before you say that, shouldn't you CHECK with yourself who's the cause?

"So be a good girl and let me change your bandages." I felt a shiver ran up my spine as I saw her grinning like a cat that had cornered her food.

In a last ditch effort, I placed all my hopes unto the one who had thus far distanced herself from the commotion, Miss Maria. Throwing all my dignity out of the window, I shot my tear-brimmed pleading eyes at her. I thank the heavens when it manages to move her to finally take action.

"-cough-, Err... May I ask that once the Graceful Amethyst have 'completed' the matters at hand to see me in the Gakuenchou's office as soon as possible? There is still a lot of unfinished work that requires your attention." With her graceful exit, so did my last hope.

"Did you hear that Natsuki-chan? 'As soon as possible' she said!" she chirped while she happily proceed to unbutton my shirt. I took back all the good feelings I have for the elder woman... I have no need for self-preserving cowards.

Knowing it's useless to resist, I entered into denial mode and kept chanting, 'Not my body... not my body' over and over in my mind.

As layer after layer of bandages were removed effortlessly by her expert hands, I couldn't help but blush like a ripe tomato; especially when I felt the cold air on my now exposed skin.

"Ara! Natsuki-chan's first blush! How cute!" Despite her verbal musings her hands showed no signs of remorse as they continued to make short work of the remaining bandages.

I wanted to protest but the words were lodged at the back of my throat as pain shot through me.

Glancing downwards, I took note for the first time, the extent of my wounds. A 3-inch wide gash rudely marked my chest; reddish and raw, it is still slowing seeping out blood. I bit my tongue to suppress a groan as pain radiated throughout my entire body. Voicing out its complaint, my body trembled uncontrollably.

"Is it very painful? Please bear with me, it'll be over soon." I could see an immediate change in Shizuru's demeanor the moment she laid her eyes on my wound. A veil of cold dark scowl swept over her face but was quickly replaced by pained regret. Her hands were trembling as she applied the medication. I couldn't bear to see her like this but I'm helpless to alleviate her pain. The best I could do is to bear with it and put up a bold front as not to increase her burden.

"Ok!" I tried my best to make my voice sounded strong and clear. Watching her as she wordlessly continued to work on my wound.

Finally with the task completed both of us release sighs of relief. "Err.. Shizuru-onee-sama, I think we best let Youko-sensei do the bandaging next time." I couldn't bear to see her go through another heart-wrenching session.

"No!" She shot almost immediately before looking at me with hurt and bewilderment in her eyes, "Natsuki-chan, why? Did I do a poor job?"

"No... of course not! Shizuru-onee-sama did great but..." I couldn't continue for she had me silenced with her finger on my mouth.

"Natsuki-chan is truly a gentle and considerate girl." She commented as she buried her face unto my neck. She took a deep breath as if such an action would allow her to draw strength.

"Youko said your wounds shouldn't of much concern but I wonder why you haven't recovered from it yet." She said more to herself than me but it was clear that she is troubled about the condition.

"Don't worry; I will recover in no time." I assured her while stroking her back comfortingly. I hate to see her like this, so strung up and tense as if all of this is her fault.

"Natsuki" her voice slightly mumbled due to the position she was in.

"Yes?"

"Please let me stay like this for a little while longer?" She weakly pleaded.

"Sure." Embracing her tired and trembling body I urge her to relax; for once shedding the tiring pretense, giving in to her weakness.

-x-x-x-x- Kruger's POV -x-x-x-x-

"Natsuki-chan! Dinner's ready!"

"Err... Shizuru! Although it doesn't seem like it, I'm older than you so err... Could you please don't use the 'chan' bit?" I said as I approached the dinner table. I was surprised to find the 'feast' before my eyes... how could the two of us finish this monstrosity?

"Sure! No problem, Natsuki!" I wasn't left puzzling for long on her sudden 'willingness to give in without a fight' for she had continued almost instantly, "Since its Natsuki, it's only right that you sleep with me tonight."

-cough- -cough-

I choked on the food, shocked at her brazen request.

I glared at her, red faced and all while I bellowed my reply, "I object!"

"Objection overruled." her calm yet determined voice made it clear that it is not opened for discussion.

"In that case, call me Natsuki-chan". Although I hated it, she gave me no choice.

"Does Natsuki dislike me so?" I saw her turning her head to the side, hand covering her mouth while she sobbed sadly.

"No... Of course not! I don't dislike you. But... this is not a question of like or dislike..." I couldn't bear to watch her break down like this and tried to explain my reasoning.

"If you don't dislike me... does that mean you're afraid? Ikezu, do I look like a monster to you?"

"How could you think of such a thing? And... who says I'm afraid? What's there to fear about sleeping with you?!"

"Remember, you said it not me!"

"Yes, I said it."

"Ara, play fair and no going back on your words now." Turning her grinning face towards me, she flashed me her victorious smile.

"You..." Argh! Again! I've been had again... I can't believe it! Am I that gullible?

I couldn't find a good comeback and swallowed the rest of the words as Shizuru's steeled gaze convinced me to give up the lost cause.

"Let's not waste time and eat up before the dishes gets cold." She chirped happily as she started to fill my plate with her cooking.

Truth be told, I enjoyed the dinner. All the dishes are much to my liking and I'm definitely not complaining about the abundance of mayonnaise be they in or beside the dishes. This got me thinking about 'her' again. 'She' too loves to cook for me and only now did I realize how well she knew me. Hidden within each seemingly common dish that she had prepared for me is her untold affection and dedicated attention.

"Natsuki, a penny for your thoughts?"

"Ermm... Natsuki-chan also likes these dishes?"

"Yes!"

"Shizuru seems to know her really well!" Just like 'Shizuru'... I smiled inwardly.

"Indeed, but..." She hesitated and I caught a glimpse of disappointment and her eyes dimmed somewhat.

I could tell she was bothered by something and tried to change the subject. "Ahh... Yes... About the mixed up, I think it's possible that it happened when Natsuki-chan fainted and I was attacked. It could have caused some disturbances to the parallel universes enough to result a collision of some sort knocking us into each other's world. I know it's a bit far fetched to assume that we both passed out at the same time but I really couldn't think of any other reasons."

That was the best I could gather from what little I know, hopefully they would be enough to calm her unease and worries.

"Parallel universe?"

"Yes. I think both your world and mine exists as parallel universes to each other."

"If that is the case, do you know how we can reverse the effect?" She asked expectantly.

"Well... to be honest, I don't really know much about parallel universes as I've only heard about it from someone else and looking at the situation over here I doubt if the present technology allows us to investigate further on this subject matter. I guess we're pretty much left standing on the sidelines here."

"In other words, we can only rely on the other side to come up with the solution?"

"Yes. That is correct." I replied slightly annoyed myself about the situation.

"Ara, Natsuki don't worry. We should have faith in them that they would be able to think of a solution, don't you agree?" To think that in the end, I was the one who was comforted. Shizuru's always able to disperse my worries with just her words alone.

"Yes. Err... Shizuru? Can I ask a question?"

"Sure. I don't see why not." She smiled sweetly at me, her gaze gentle and warm as if I'm family.

"Since you're that worried about Natsuki-chan, why didn't you question me about it sooner?" Instead of 'acting' along with me for so long; I continued inwardly, the later part of my queries were left unvoiced.

"Well, I thought Natsuki would be very confused and her mind plagued with many questions when she came out of the coma. I don't think you'll be in a condition to give any intelligent answers at that time. Isn't it better that I ask you after you had sorted things out by yourself?" She answered matter-of-factly.

I guess I shouldn't be amazed by this; Shizuru always has a sharp mind and an even sharper tongue.

"By the way, Natsuki, there are some things that I wanted to discuss with you."

I gulped nervously. You really never know what she has up that sleeves of hers...

"Could you attend class on behalf of 'Natsuki' for the time being?"

"Class?"

"Yes. Natsuki's record has always been far from satisfactory and there's an important test coming up two weeks later. If she continues to miss her classes, she most probably would be have to repeat another year..."

"Ohh... ok I guess." Since we're both Natsukis it wouldn't do for her to be doing badly in her studies. I'm a Gakuenchou after all; I can't allow that to happen.

"Thank you so much! Natsuki." The next thing I knew, I was bear-hugged and I could feel the blood rushing up towards my head.

"You're... you're welcomed. Now please, let go of me." I tried to get her to release me but to no avail.

"Hoho... Natsuki has improved. Natsuki didn't faint." she whispered those words softly into my ears.

"I guess... "

"How about this?" she sensously blew into my ear. What happened after that? I have absolutely no idea for I had passed out right there and then.

"Ara! She fainted again. How cute!" An elated Shizuru carried the now senseless Gakuenchou into 'their' bedroom.

- to be continued -

Notes:

In reply to an anon comment from a fellow yamibian (LOL). Yes, I'm also a member of yamibo. My nick in yamibo is also glowie. As for the link problem, a detailed explaination is given at the bottom of the chapter. It's mainly caused by the limitation in ff net. Symbols are allowed in REVIEW but a lot of them aren't in the CONTENT of our articles.

#Offending idea removed#

As usual, my thanks for the support, reviews and feedback. I'm especially thankful for the comments, corrections and suggestions which helps me improve my writing. I do agree that I often misuse and abuse the tenses... sorry about that. Honestly, I have no idea how they really work... I keep telling myself I need to go through proper lessons. -blush-
(I hope I managed to reduce the number of mistakes in this chapter)

UPDATE#1

Blush... Thanks for the corrections Leebot! I did some last minute changing on the dialogue and messed it up without realizing.

Ryuu, thanks for the feedback. I guess I did sort of 'push aside' the author's feelings on this huh? Thanks. :)
(I've removed the offending idea because I totally agree with you after reading your feedback.)

Remarks:

The author for this piece is submerged. She doesn't have an english nick and is ok with me directly translating her chinese nick. She doesn't have a blog so I'll just add the link for the article here. As usual, reconstructing links in ff net is not easy... so good luck?

http /www yamibo com/viewthread.php?tid(equals)26453&page(equals)1

Since I have people asking about the correctness of the link above (it's correct if you manage to translate my instructions properly... ok, I admit they are vague and cryptic), I'll try to explain. Basically there are a lot of COMMONLY used symbols which are not allowed in ff net... please don't ask me why. The EQUALSIGN is one of them. So to reconstruct the link provided, you'll need to replace '(equals)' with the actual EQUALSIGN. Also, you'll need to remove the extra spaces and put in the missing DOTS. Not much of a user-friendly instructions I know but documentation is not my forte.