Chapter Fifty-Four: Resolving A Difference
Uo nodded cheerily. It was probably best. After all, if anything, it was better to make more friends before making enemies. He had been rather kind and had tried to get her out of that place.
After situating herself as best she could, seeing as the subway wasn't really too crowded.. well, at least not at that particular moment. She smiled again as she nodded.
"Well, there's nothing really to know about me. My name is Mitsu Houou, but everyone calls me 'Uo' for short." She said, deciding not to explain the rather lame origins of her nickname. "I don't know why everyone likes to call me 'Pisces', but they do. I live in a rather casual little house here in Tokyo. I've not moved once in my life, so yeah, I was born here, too. Um.. well, I go to a local high school. I have a mom and a dad and a cousin that I live with.. though Dad's always away. He's a businessman. Mom.. she gets stressed easily... and.. my cousin... is a junky."
She paused as she thought it over. "Well, I guess I'm just sort of a local kid. I like arcades, malls, and almost anything involving music... but, the thing is, I'm a bit odd for a girl. I work at a mechanic's shop and I have a laboratory in my basement that I run on my own. I like to invent things.. and my passion, besides inventing, would be for dance. Need I say I'm overprotective of my friends? I guess I'm kind of weird, huh?"
She smiled again. What more could she say? Perhaps her life as an artist could stay hidden... at least momentarily.
"You're not weird at all. Most people would say that you are, but only because they don't see things like you do. You're unique, one of a kind. You won't find anyone just like you out there, just like you won't find another one of me out there. Good thing too, otherwise I might be out of a job." Aoki said with a laugh.
"Arigato, Seiichirou-san!" Uo smiled lightly.
It was nice to have some company, and it took her mind off of her friends momentarily, away from worry. She paused for a second.
"You said you were working on a book, ne? A book on what, precisely, if you don't mind my asking?" She tilted her head curiously.
"Well... truthfully, I can't tell you what it is. Top secret and all that stuff." Aoki said with a smile.
Truthfully though, he wasn't sure himself, as the book seemed to keep changing what it was in the middle of writing.
"Aaah, I see! Well, you'll have to tell me whenever it comes out!" She said with a nod and a bright smile. "I might just wanna read it!"
It didn't really matter to her what kind of book it was, she would read anything if she just wanted to read. A dictionary, even. She was okay with reading, and usually did when it came to school events that she had to go to. Even homecoming was often hiding beneath the bleachers and reading until it was over, then picking up the spare change and walking off.
She paused. 'Hm.. I wonder how soon until our stop...'
Soon the subway train got to their destination.
"Here we are. Come on Miss Uo. It shouldn't be that much further to go." Aoki said, walking off the train with her.
Just as he stood away from Shouri, Seishirou suddenly glanced up just in time to see Subaru penetrate the workings of his illusory world, colliding with him and shoving him to the ground on his. He landed with a grunt, and instantly the illusion shattered, raining sakura petals all across the vicinity.
Unable to say anything with his jaw in this condition, Sumeragi Subaru pushed Seishirou down as forcefully as he could with his dwindling strength. His eyes were angry; if he could speak, most certainly his words would have been "Where is Hokuto?"
Shouri now took the time to recover. His eyes flew quickly to Subaru, just as the illusion vanished. He did not relent from his defensive position, nor did he say anything as he watched the two. He felt the anger radiating from Subaru, however, and took a step back. In his mind, he heard himself swearing. 'If he hurts Subaru...' He wouldn't stand for it. He would soon have to release the negative energy...
Stunned by the force with which Subaru shoved him against the ground, Seishirou glared up at his counterpart with a smirk in his usable eye. Without a word, he lifted a foot and shoved it into Subaru's middle, with the intent of sending the younger man flying off of him, so he could at least stand.
Subaru oof-ed as he was pushed off of Seishirou, and a few feet away; despite this, he tried once again to reach for Seishirou, to stop him from hurting Shouri. Even now, he was desperate for a compromise; all he wanted was to have his sister and Shouri again. He didn't want this to all end this way. Because of his stupidity, he put two of his special people in harm's way. And he'd do anything to secure their safety. Anything.
Shouri paused a moment, lowering his guard for a split second. He didn't like how close Subaru was to Seishirou. It made him very antsy. He couldn't attack, either... hopefully Seishirou hadn't noticed. Why had he let Hokuto go? Why had he hesitated not to try to get her to stay? He faltered, trying to calm himself. His frustration nearly built the growing pain within.
Seishirou sensed Shouri's hesitation; he also sensed Subaru's desperation. As he got to his feet and brushed himself off, it was clear to him that he had the advantage here, despite the odds of two against one. He paused then, glanced from one to the other, then finally resting his eyes on Subaru. The young man was beaten to a bloody pulp, and yet still he longed only to help others. And still he appeared to Seishirou so beautiful...despite his cruel injuries. He frowned slightly. Only slightly. He had not wanted to fight in the first place. He could easily kill Subaru and get the kekkai to fall. But what was the point in that? How would he ever get his last wish if he did that? So, slowly, he approached the fallen young Sumeragi, removing his jacket as he advanced. His eyes never left Subaru's. Kneeling down beside him, he draped the coat over Subaru's shoulders and gently ran his fingers through the man's hair. "I can do nothing about your sister. Kamui-sama has her now." His voice was almost...sorrowful.
"I...ie," Subaru managed to breathe out. He tossed a clenching fist at the ground, so hard that he opened a new wound in his hand; all motivation of avenging Seishirou was wiped out. This was the whole reason why she was gone, right? Because he was stupid...
Shouri said nothing, moved not an inch. There seemed to be a drop to nothing in the hostility level. All of that negative energy built up and he could do nothing with it? He paused and finally allowed himself to drop to one knee, to subdue the force within him momentarily. If Seishirou wanted to fight, then he would be ready. If this turned out to be nothing more than a skirmish, he would calculate the distance to the shrine and either unleash the energy into the ground, or get Subaru to Matsuko's and ask for her assistance in the dispelling. He closed his eyes for a moment. '...Shimatta...,' he cursed to himself.
Softly Seishirou stroked Subaru's bloodstained cheek with his thumb. "I'm truly sorry, Subaru-kun," he added with a soft smile. "It's out of my hands now. I don't even know where he took her." Glancing up at the peak of the barrier, he tapped his chin thoughtfully with his free hand. "Something about...someone named 'Kakyou'." Then he shrugged. "Though I have no idea who that is." And this much was true.
Unable to ask any questions, he simply nodded. Kakyou, Yuurei's lover, right? And Hokuto's...too. But why had she chosen Kakyou over him? Was he not important to her?
Seishirou smiled sympathetically. "I know you must be hurting. But neither of us can do anything about it as long as this barrier of yours is standing. Now I know you don't trust me, but there's really no other way..."
Upon hearing those words, Shouri stood up without hesitation. He didn't plan to attack, but he didn't trust Seishirou, either. Both Subaru and himself were injured badly and could easily be taken advantage of.
Suspicious, Shouri allowed the energy to recharge a bit more. His thoughts were more towards protecting Subaru should something crazy happen, and had to force himself to ignore thoughts of revenge...at least momentarily. He grunted, ignoring the physical discomfort as his emerald orbs locked onto Seishirou, warning him of the consequences of any foolish plots that might be put into play should Subaru submit to the man's wishes.
Subaru nodded; he was willing to compromise, if the stakes were high enough. However, communication would prove incredibly difficult in this negotiation, considering Subaru's state.
Understanding Subaru's predicament, Seishirou gently lifted the younger man's upper body into his arms, cradling Subaru's shoulders against his stalwart chest. Lifting a hand to the man's jaw, he stroked the broken bone delicately. "You should really get this examined," he murmured almost playfully. "I'm very sorry I had to be so rough with you.
"Now...I can take you anywhere you need to go, but I suggest you tend to your wounds before you go out searching for Hokuto..."
The boy eased up a little, slowly approaching the two and allowing some of the negative energy to disperse as he walked, enough so that it wouldn't leave a trail behind him. "... My home isn't far from here. Matsuko-sama could tend to all needs... more than likely, she already knows." His voice was much more calm than it had been, but still revealed his inner struggle. He glanced at Subaru. "The Priestess could certainly fix that and restore a considerable amount of energy... and I'm afraid I'll have to go there.. this negative energy... is far too much for me to handle."
Subaru nodded at Shouri's suggestion, unable to say much himself. That was probably the best, and safest place to go. But why was Seishirou acting like this? It left him mystified.
"Break it and I'll give you one hell of a time." Shouri warned. "Besides, you'd be a fool to do so when so close to the shrine."
The boy nodded slightly. Again, he felt that secret pull in his heart. He almost wondered what it was that kept him in the dark at all times. Ignoring it again, he nodded and simply waited for the kekkai to fall, still cautious.
Seishirou shrugged. I don't think you're in any position to make threats," he replied, tenderly lifting Subaru from the ground, "but if you feel you need to boost your ego, then go right ahead." He turned to face Shouri for the first time, a pleasant smile on his face. "Now...as soon as the kekkai is lowered, you can lead the way."
Subaru slowly, albeit reluctantly let down the kekkai; while Seishirou was suddenly being so gentle, he didn't expect the same reaction in a few seconds. He didn't trust Seishirou as far as he could throw him...
Shouri kept his eyes on Seishirou, even as he nodded and motioned for him to follow. He began to walk, unaware of Kaze's movements still. His senses were focused on making sure that Seishirou didn't attempt to double-cross them. He walked more at Seishirou's side and a little bit ahead than right in front of him. He knew better than to fully turn his back on Seishirou..
Seishirou followed, still never laying a harmful hand on either of the young men. Warm blood drenched his hands and sleeves from Subaru's wounds.
Seishirou held him a little closer, applying a bit of pressure to those injuries. It occurred to him once that it should not have mattered, that he cared nothing for whether Subaru lived or died, but it was getting harder and harder to deny it to himself. Still, he did keep his guard up, aware that any moment Shouri might betray the truce as well, for Subaru's safety.
Not that Seishirou had anything better to do, of course. Now the Fuuma was gone, and Yuuto and the genetic doll had disappeared somewhere, Seishirou truly had little more to do than either fight or play. If he fought, he knew he would win. But...playing was so much more interesting...
Subaru felt his eyes flutter in the dim light; it was easier for him to hold on to consciousness now that the kekkai was gone, but even so, the pain was overwhelming. As much as he tried to move his jaw to speak, he could barely get out unintelligible syllables. Instead, he lay there, like a limp rag doll, waiting for Seishirou to take him to his final destination, wherever that may be.
The closer they came to the shrine, the more pained Shouri felt. Matsuko would surely box his ears and give him a good lecture before another boxing would occur. It had to be done, though. The pain from nearing the temple was caused by the obvious pure energy radiating from it. Matsuko knew. Shouri shuddered as hugged himself while they walked, shivering as though in a blizzard.
He cast a glance back at Subaru and Seishirou, but looked ahead again quickly. If he looked at that man, he would only think of more hateful thoughts.. and he didn't want to gain any more negative energy.
Shouri kept walking, despite himself. Soon, very soon, he would be home... and things would be fine.
The cold spirit energy bit into Seishirou's body like an ice pick. Silently he uttered a few words, placing a protective shield around both himself and Subaru, keeping them from the frigidity.
This shrine was indeed dangerous to those such as himself. And Subaru was not pure either--not like he used to be. Stifling a sigh, he glanced down at the younger man. He used to be so innocent...so sweet... And now... Seishirou had done this to him; he knew very well what he had done. "Subaru-kun..." Was he speaking out loud? What was he doing? "I... Go-...gomen..."
Subaru's eyes widened in surprise, the only response he could give to Seishirou's apology; he didn't know what to think! Was this all some sort of facade, some ploy by Seishirou to get Subaru to trust him? As suspicious as he was, more than anything, he wanted to believe that this was Seishirou speaking, and not merely a voice.
The chill slowly faded. It had acted like a warning to an unwanted guest, but Shouri proceeded to walk up the tall stairs of the shrine. He knew who would greet him... and as he stepped closer, he felt his stomach bounce as he came to a halt at the top. The shrine had nearly tried to repel him, but had recognized him immediately as an inhabitant and stopped. This area that it was built on was ancient, and very well preserved, causing the shrine to react as one might have centuries ago.
The boy looked up and sighed as he took in the air. Fresh. Clean. He loved it. His anger died down to a degree as he opened his emerald orbs, lost in memories. For a moment, he almost thought he saw a small boy standing by him, covered in dirt with ripped clothes, greeting a kindly old woman. As the image faded, he saw that same woman standing in front of the large double doors on the porch of the shrine. "Matsuko-sama..."
Glancing up at the woman who stood on the porch step, Seishirou took a step closer and offered a charming smile. "Konban wa," he greeted. "My...friend here is quite injured, and Shouri-kun mentioned that you might be able to help him. I'd be most appreciative if you would take care of him for a while."
Kakyou's brow furrowed. "But why..." And then like the stab of a knife he understood. Yuurei wanted her to protect him, to watch over him...to love him.. And Kakyou found that that wasn't at all what he wanted. Lowering his head again, the tresses on his shoulders fell forward to cover his face, as the tears continued rolling down his cheeks...
Hokuto didn't want to be selfish. She didn't want to claim Kakyou. All she wanted was for him to be happy. "I'm sorry." That was all she said. She smiled slightly and placed her hands on both sides of his face, forcing him to face her. "It's alright."
Fuuma moved toward the reunited couple, smiling down at Kakyou. "What's the matter you two?"
Kakyou looked at Hokuto and then his eyes flashed toward Fuuma as the man sauntered over. Moving his tear stained face back to Hokuto he whispered, "Is it?" his voice quivery, his eyes boring into hers...
She nodded, still smiling. "It is." She realized all she really wanted had always been for the people she loved to be happy. Subaru, Kakyou. It didn't matter if she couldn't have everything. Because seeing them happy made her happy. "If he brings you out into the light, then it's alright." She turned her head and smiled at Fuuma. "It's nothing."
Fuuma nodded and stood silently in the background. He eyed Kakyou with a smile, a hand touching Hokuto's shoulder.
Kakyou continued to watch her. "..but he doesn't anymore...he doesn't want to.."
She shook her head, the cheerful side of her surfacing. "He does so. You don't know how much he wants to. But he feels he can't." She felt better now. Seeing Kakyou like this was torture, but knowing Yuurei could take it away was all she needed to know. "Because he's the Ten no Ryu's Watcher."
"Oh you're seeing Yuurei still?" Fuuma's smile grew darker, his shadow loomed over Kakyou.
Hokuto panicked as Fuuma grew menacing. He couldn't hurt Kakyou. She stood up, shielding the yume-mi. "Don't."
Kakyou shook his head at Fuuma, tears still streaming down his pale cheeks and said softly, "No... he broke it off himself.. "
Fuuma looked at Hokuto, his smile brightening. "I'm not going to hurt Kakyou...after all...I'm going to get his revenge for him. For the pain he caused Kakyou by getting involved."
She shook her head slightly, turning back to the dream gazer. "How long... has it been since you met him?" She didn't know why she asked. But she'd wondered since the first time she'd met Yuurei.
Kakyou shook his head at Fuuma. "Please don't... Just because he..." he stopped not wanting to say anymore. Turning his gaze back to Hokuto, he grabbed his knees and pulled them to his chest. "It's been so long I don't remember... I met him in my dreams..."
Fuuma smiled evilly and turned away from Kakyou. He eyes Hokuto out of the corner of his eye.
"And how long have you loved him?" She needed to be blunt. She needed to make a final decision. And to do that, she needed to know every detail. Smiling up at Fuuma, she reassured him. I need to do this
Fuuma nodded and he looked into the black abyss. He wasn't apart of this...He smiled however, because despite all the snags everything was happening according to plan.
Kakyou watched Fuuma go before answering in a whisper, "...He was there for me through everything...I think...I think my heart was his before I ever realized it..."
Fuuma turned back to Hokuto. "There isn't much time left."
"I won't be long." She looked into Kakyou's eyes and found reassurance. "I'll bring him back to you. He brought me back because he wanted you to be happy. Having him will make you happy." She stood up and took Fuuma's hand again. "Don't worry. He will come. I'll make sure of it."
Fuuma turned back to Kakyou, smiling darkly.
Kakyou watched them still, silent now... the tears ever so slowly slowing... he gazed at Hokuto his eyes like golden pools if you stared into them you would be sucked in... "Please don't leave me... I.. I don't want to be alone..."
"Mayouko is here. In the physical sense at least." She smiled. "I'll come back." She let Fuuma's hand go and bent down to look at Kakyou once again. "I love you. Remember that." Straightening up, she grasped for the hand she had just let go again and waved at Kakyou. "I'll see you soon!"
"If you wish to remain here...then you may..." Fuuma looked off to the distance.
Kakyou shuddered... Mayouko wasn't someone he really wanted to be left with... "You don't know her do you..."
Hokuto followed Fuuma, out of Kakyou's dreamscape. She didn't hear Kakyou's last words, not the fear and contempt in his voice or his shudder.
Fuuma eyed Kakyou's sleeping form in the real world. He looked to Hokuto, smiling darkly. "You could've remained."
"No." She shook her head. "Then I would have never been able to leave."
Mayouko smirked as they both awoke. "Welcome back to reality. Would either of you care for some tea?"
Fuuma nodded slowly. "I suppose you wish to part ways now? After all your brother might not approve of me as your company." He turned to Mayouko with a grin. "Yes please!"
Hokuto shook her head slightly, not wanting to part with Fuuma just yet. "But I have to return to him soon." Smiling at Mayouko, she nodded. "Thank you, yes."
Mayouko chuckled, "Knowing Subaru...he would indeed be very unhappy..." she glanced at Kakyou's sleeping body and gave a sly smile. "It still amazes me what makes people love him.." Shaking her head, she smiled at the two and beckoned. "Right this way..." she said, leading them into the kitchen and putting on the teakettle.
Fuuma smiled at Hokuto and put a hand on her shoulder. "How about we get that Ice Cream later."
She nodded, smiling cheerfully. "Yes!" Following Mayouko into the kitchen, she pointed to the cups. "Want some help?"
"Ice cream hmm..?" Mayouko grinned and said in a teasing voice, "Do you propose getting ice cream to every girl you meet?"
Fuuma laughs and help up his hands in mock defense. "No no...I just like Ice Cream...and every time I try to get Seishirou to go someone shows up and we have to fight."
Mayouko shook her head at both of them, as she got three cups down and places them on the table. "Thank you but I'm fine Hokuto. Take a seat and that way we can talk..." she continued, gesturing to the pillows the surrounded the low table.
The old woman casually glanced to Shouri for a moment before she looked back. She sensed odd powers or energies in all three of them, but surprisingly Shouri, too. An ominous presence seemed to hover around Seishirou and Shouri, both- something that she wasn't too comfortable with. Upon seeing a light smile and pleading eyes from Shouri, however, she nodded at the others.
"I will gladly attend to any friend of Tokuichi-san." Matsuko smiled lightly.
In truth, Matsuko looked as though she were only in her late thirties, with the exception of her white hair. Wrinkles were almost zip... But one could tell that her body was tired, despite her youthful appearance. It must have had something to do with the shrine itself, and its natural purity. She had been born and raised there, and so she was far stronger than a normal human as its priestess and protector.. not to mention the fact that she aged slower.
"Matsuko-sama..." Shouri trailed off, lips opening, but no words came. He wanted to tell her that he was sorry about losing control, but the sudden frown made him stop.
"We will speak of it later, Shouri. Right now, your friend needs attention." Matsuko turned back to face the other two. "Please, follow me."
Shouri watched her turn and walk back into the shrine, her sandals barely making a sound upon the wooden floor of the shrine. He didn't follow. He simply stared. Apparently the energies that protected the shrine were calming... of course, the fact that the boy remained in his negative state still put it on edge.. not to mention the two Ryu...
