Twisted Nether
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The seven seishi and their Miko surrounded the table, each lending ideas and advice for
finding the shinzaho of Genbu. They had finally reached Tolan and decided that the local
tavern would be a good place to relax and sort out just what they were going to do next.
Tamahome and Miaka stayed close to each other, as they tended to do... Tasuki and Nuriko
were daring each other as to who could drink more, but neither were willing to take that
bet just now. There was a job to do, and being blind stinking drunk wouldn't help any.
Mitsukake, Chiriko and Hotohori were putting out suggestions of a possible location, and
Chichiri occasionally put in his own ideas. At first, it seemed that their number would
only be six... until Hotohori's chief advisor offered to cover for him for at least a
short while. If anything happened in the Emperor's absense, word would be sent
immediately, and Chichiri would whisk Hotohori back to Konan.
The atmosphere was tense, but not as badly as it had been thus far. Finally, they were
within sight of their goal. Tamahome and Chichiri were the first to notice the obscure
glances from a group of local men sitting a few tables away. The two exchanged eye
contact, simply nodding in affirmation. If the men tried anything, those two would be
ready for them. Sure enough, it wasn't long before one of the group, well into his cups,
staggered over to the table the seishi occupied. Nuriko was startled nearly out of his
chair when a strong hand clapped down on his shoulder and the alcohol-laden breath met his
senses.
"Hey there, beautiful... what do you say you leave these boys and come sit with the *real*
men..." There was a chorus of stifled laughter from the other table, but none of them saw
the dangerous glint that made itself apparent in the slender seishi's eyes. Chichiri was
the first to notice it, and in an instant knew what was going to happen. Nuriko's left
hand balled into a fist while the thumb of the other worked to crack the knuckles of his
right hand. Once that was accomplished... giving his 'admirer' plenty of time to rethink
his move... Nuriko stood up suddenly from his chair, coming full swing as he did so, using
his body's movement as force behind his punch. It was the only way he knew of to not kill
the man... he didn't trust his strength when he was angered. His fist connected with the
man's jaw, knocking him into the air to fly back and land next to the table with his
friends. The local men sat in astonishment, jaws slack as they helped their friend to his
feet and decided that perhaps the tavern wasn't a good place to be at the moment.
Hotohori and Tasuki had risen to their feet, the Emperor stunned by Nuriko's actions...
while Tasuki was giving feedback on form and style. Nuriko barely noticed either, however,
his eyes still blazing with fury. The other seishi knew when to leave well enough alone,
but Hotohori approached his comrade, a look of concern on his face.
"Nuriko... wasn't that just a bit..." He paused as Nuriko spun around to face him, still
seething, but at least calming down for now. Choosing his words carefully, he continued.
"I think maybe you overreacted slightly."
Nuriko's eyes widened faintly, and his attitude seemed to shift into his normal state of
being. Only Chichiri realized what was happening, knowing full well about 'masks'... be
they physical or emotional. He got to his feet slowly, edging closer to the two, hoping
to diffuse the situation before it got out of hand. The voilet-haired seishi crossed his
arms over his chest, looking up to Hotohori in amazement. "Overreacting? Me?" He shook
his head faintly, narrowing his eyes and tilting his head to the side as if trying to look
around the Emperor. "Hotohori-sama?"
"Nani?"
"Turn around a moment... what's that on your tunic?" Nuriko looked genuinely concerned...
and Chichiri just sighed as the Emperor fell for it, hook, line and sinker.
Hotohori's gaze dropped to his waist, his hands smoothing the fabric. "What is it?" He
looked in vain, turning his back to Nuriko, who reacted in that same instant. All the
Emperor felt was a tug on his belt, his hand flying to the spot as he realized his own
dagger had just been drawn. On instinct, his hand closed on the hilt of his sword and he
twisted around to defend himself. What greeted his eyes was Nuriko's glare as he brought
the dagger to bear against his own pale neck. Hotohori was about to shout for him to stop
when the blade moved... not against the skin, as they had feared, but outward.
The weapon sliced through the thick braid, which fell to the ground in a twisted heap as
Nuriko turned the dagger, holding it by the tip of the blade. His voice was a growl as he
glanced to the other seishi, already on their feet from the moment the first weapon was
drawn. "No, Hotohori-sama... *that* was overreacting." He flung his arm to the side,
sending the dagger flying to embed itself upright in the table. The blade was still
quivering in its resting place when Nuriko turned to the door, stalking out into the snow.
Hotohori stood in shock, not knowing how to react to what he had just witnessed. The
others mirrored his response, none having ever seen Nuriko behave so rashly.
The first to move was Tasuki, stepping forward and dropping to one knee as he scooped up
the fallen braid in his hand. He stared at the lavender strands, watching the cut end
start to unwind itself slowly. Taking a small leather strip and tearing it free from his
belt, he tied off the loose end, rising to his feet. A pouch at his side was quickly
emptied of its contents, those being dumped into another before he pushed the braid into
it, closing the small bag. His gaze turned to Hotohori then, and the contempt in his eyes
was plain. He was about to speak, but then thought better of it, moving towards the door
and calling over his shoulder. "I'm going to go check on him... back in a minute."
The other five and Miaka just blinked, looking to each other in confusion. What the hell
had just happened? Hotohori sheathed his sword, sighing softly. "I feel at fault for at
least some of that... I'll go see how he's doing as well." The others simply nodded in
silence, watching the Emperor walk out of the tavern. Chichiri sat back in his chair,
watching the now closed door thoughtfully. He waved away the silent questioning glances
of his companions, keeping his thoughts to himself for now. Something was going on here...
and he had a good idea of what that was.
* * *
Tasuki glanced around, scratching his head as he tried to figure out where his fellow
seishi had gone. Footprints in the snow finally caught his eye and he followed them
around the side of the building, nearly tripping over Nuriko sitting in the snow with his
back against the tavern wall. He rested his back against the wood, sliding down until he
was sitting next to the older seishi, not quite sure what to say. He watched Nuriko for a
few moments, the other never even looking up.
Nuriko sat with his legs bent, arms draped across his knees and head bowed to gaze at the
snow. A faint smile crossed his face for a moment as a small leather pouch landed in his
range of sight and he heard Tasuki's hesitant voice.
"Care to talk about it?"
He almost laughed. Figures... of any who would come out here, it would be Tasuki.
"Iie..." Came the soft reply, but his hand reached down to pick up the pouch, tying it
to his belt. "Arigatou, Tasuki." Nuriko looked to him then, eyes shimmering faintly with
tears that refused to fall, the hollow smile upon his face one more. "Maybe I'll take it
to Kourin's grave..."
The bandit raised a brow, relaxing just a bit. At least he was talking, that was an
improvement. Neither of them heard Hotohori leave the tavern or come towards them. Just
as he was about to turn the corner, the Emperor stopped, hearing their voices. He backed
up, leaning against the wall out of their sight, but well within earshot. Tasuki turned
faintly to face Nuriko a bit better, his expression slightly curious. "If you don't mind
me asking... who's Kourin?"
"Ah... you weren't there when I told Tamahome and Miaka about my sister, were you?"
Nuriko let his head fall back against the wall as he looked up into the clouded sky.
"I'll tell you about her, if you like." He heard the faint sound of affirmation from his
right and took a breath, beginning his tale.
* * *
He couldn't breathe... Hotohori pressed his back against the wall, eyes widened as he
stared off into the distance. That was why... why Nuriko had come to the palace. He had
fought to keep still during the story, several times wanting to rush around the corner and
bring Nuriko into his arms and tell him everything would be fine. Much as the smaller
seishi had done for him numerous times. The shining eyes and cheerful laugh were always
soothing to Hotohori. When Miaka had left for her own world, it was Nuriko that had kept
him sane. All this time, he never saw the scars that were just beneath the surface of that
ever present smile.
"So... you became Kourin after she died?" Tasuki was stunned as well, but he hadn't known
Nuriko as long as some of the others had. To him, it was a revelation, but nothing
compared to what it meant to the Emperor. "Why change your mind now?"
Nuriko chuckled dryly, shaking his head. "It doesn't matter anymore. He loves Miaka. I
never stood a chance, not when he has been dreaming of Suzaku no Miko his entire life."
His fingers toyed with the strings of the pouch that held the long braid, giving him
something to occupy himself as he tried to organize his thoughts. "Kourin might have been
able to change his mind... but me? Once he found out I was a man, it was all over."
Tasuki brought his arms over his chest, shifting his position slightly and trying to sort
out all of what he'd just been told. "Alright. That explains a bit of it... but if
Kourin was the only one who loved Hotohori, it wouldn't be hitting you this badly. I don't
even want to know how long this has been building up for you to snap like that."
The slender seishi didn't respond at first, only shook his head faintly, biting back the
tears that threatened to unleash. He wouldn't cry... not now... not here. "Kourin loved
the Emperor, not me."
Hotohori stifled a gasp... why did it feel like someone had thrust a fist into his chest
when he'd heard those words? Did he truly feel that strongly about Nuriko? Why wouldn't
he have noticed before now? His mind was in a haze as that phrase repeated itself in his
mind. 'Not me...' He let his head rest against the wall as he heard Nuriko continue.
"Kourin would have loved the Emperor, therefore I did as well. I had been there for a
couple of months when I started realizing that there was something else. I would catch
glimpses of him away from the Court, when he thought no one was watching." A hint of a
smile, a true one, graced Nuriko's features as he spoke. "That was what endeared me to him.
Those moments when he was truly himself, not the Emperor, not Hotohori." He glanced
towards Tasuki then, hoping that he understood. "Kourin loved the Emperor. I love
Saihitei."
'I love Saihitei.' Those simple words nearly brought Hotohori to his knees. He couldn't
listen any longer. Moving silently, he made his way back to the tavern door in a daze.
How long had he been blind? All he'd ever wanted was someone to love him for who he was,
not what he was. That person had been before him this entire time and he hadn't seen.
Nuriko was a man, however... and no matter how his feelings ran, a relationship with
another man wouldn't bring about an heir to the throne. He shivered inwardly, wondering
just when it was that the thought of possibly being in love with another man had stopped
seeming so wrong.
Tasuki simply ran his hands through the shock of red hair on his head, sighing heavily.
"Well... I hope he wakes up soon then. You two are good for each other, I see it every
time you make him laugh and forget about that crown on his head." He may be brash, but he
wasn't stupid. The bandit had seen the two of them together, and even if Hotohori didn't
realize it, Tasuki knew that the Emperor would crumble without Nuriko's steady hand to keep
him on track. Especially with all the events of the past few months...
Nuriko only laughed, shaking his head and pushing himself up to stand. "I won't hold my
breath." He extended a hand then, grinning as he always did. "Come on.. we've got to
figure out how to get this shinzaho and get the hell out of here. I think my toes are
frozen."
The younger seishi laughed, taking the offered hand and getting to his feet as well. He
stopped then, his expression turning serious as he looked to Nuriko. "You going to be
alright?"
A light chuckle was his response, and a wave of a slender hand. "I'm always alright,
Tasuki... someone in this group has to be." With that, they rounded the corner of the
building, heading back towards the warmth of the inside. Neither noticed the third set of
footprints that had stopped mere feet from where they had been sitting.
* * *
They'd decided to split up to look for any clues as to the whereabouts of the shinzaho.
Hotohori had been expecting different arrnagements, but found himself smiling when he was
paired up with Nuriko. This would be a good time to talk... and maybe he could finally
get things right between the two of them. They couldn't be together, that much was
unavoidable. But perhaps... perhaps they could be more than friends. The Emperor was
allowed consorts, who was to say that one of them couldn't be male?
The seishi parted ways then, each of the four groups heading off into a different direction.
They weren't quite certain what it was that they were looking for, but it was common
agreement that they'd know it when they saw it. Hotohori found himself at a loss for
words once he was alone with the older seishi. They walked in silence, Nuriko peering
into any old buildings that they came across and trying to find any people that might be
able to help. Hotohori still couldn't get used to how such a simple thing as short hair
could alter the appearance of man he accompanied. He saw Nuriko stop a few paces away and
appear to be in thought. Well, he had to start somewhere, and silence was getting them no
where. When he finally spoke, it was to his surprise that Nuriko echoed his words.
"Gomen..."
They both blinked, looking to each other. Nuriko brought one hand to his lips, smirking
faintly before erupting into giggles. "Oh that's good... neither of us knows what to say
and we both decide to speak up at the same time. He cleared his throat faintly, smiling
as he looked up at the taller man. "I'm sorry for earlier, Hotohori-sama. I was upset
but shouldn't have taken it out on you."
"Iie..." Hotohori waved a hand absently, trying to think of the right words. "I shouldn't
have said anything. I have no control here... for once, I'm not the Emperor, I'm only a
man." He was about to continue when his thoughts were interrupted by a shrill scream
nearby. Both seishi jumped into action, bolting towards the sound. It was Miaka...
either of them could recognize that voice anywhere.
Nuriko fumbled for the flare that Chiriko had given to them. One was held by each group,
to be used as a means to contact the others should anything be discovered. If trouble was
at hand, it might be needed. As the two burst into the clearing near the center of town,
they saw Tamahome curled protectively around Miaka... he was injured, that much they could
see. A wolf-like creature was about to charge them, its jaws gaping in a feral snarl. It
must have sensed the arrival of the other two, because it turned towards them, growling
harshly for a moment. Nuriko took that slight distraction as a welcome chance, leaping
forward towards the thing. Once he was close enough, the flare was snapped, sending the
bright flames into the face of the monster. An unearthly howl broke through the air, and
the creature apparently decided that the odds currently were not in its favor. It turned
and ran, disappearing quickly amidst the buildings of the town.
Hotohori was kneeling beside Tamahome and Miaka, making certain they were alright. Once
Miaka had calmed down enough, he asked what had happened, and found out that they had
discovered the whereabouts of the shinzaho. Nuriko kept an eye around them in case of
further attack once it was also revealed that one of the Seiryuu seishi, Suboshi, had made
an appearance. They had to be here for the same reason. Suzaku couldn't be summoned
normally because of the loss of the scroll... Seiryuu couldn't be summoned without all
seven seishi, and with Amiboshi dead, that left both sides in the same boat. This wasn't
going to be pretty.
With Miaka shaken and Tamahome hurt, it was decided that Nuriko and Hotohori would make
the journey to nearby Mount Black, where the shinzaho was supposed to be kept, to scout
the area while the other seishi were gathered. It would also give Tamahome a chance to
get healed by Mitsukake. They returned to the tavern, saddling two horses and making their
preparations.
* * *
The horses hooves clopped against the snow laden ground with a hollow sound. They'd
remained in silence once more as they set out, save for a few hopeful words of their goal
being achieved. It was driving Nuriko insane. Both of them were uncomfortable, that much
was obvious. Finally, he spoke up, breaking the stillness that surrounded them.
"Being the silent type today, Hotohori-sama?" The startled expression on the other man's
face was enough to make him smile and he shook his head faintly. "We make quite a pair.
Always know what to say, but when it comes to talking to each other, it seems like that
only happens when you're sick with concern over Miaka."
From anyone else, he would have been annoyed at such a statement... but Nuriko was right.
He went through his mind, remembering all the times that they had truly talked, and it all
was the same. Nuriko was the one to comfort him and make him think of other things while
Miaka was away. He felt the soft ache in his chest once more and was about to rspond when
he felt his horse lurch beneath him. Only years of riding experience kept him from being
crushed beneath the beast as it went down on the icy ground. A few minutes of examination
proved that the creature was uninjured, just frightened after its tumble. Nuriko slid
from his own horse then, tying the reins to a tree nearby.
"The ground's too dangerous for them. We'll have to go the rest of the way on foot." He
lifted a hand against the glare of the snow, narrowing his eyes as he looked up the
mountainside. A whoop of joy left his lips then and he pointed up towards the side of the
mountain. "There it is! I think I see some kind of door. Come on!" He began to wade
through the deep snow, moving towards the spot he'd seen, leaving Hotohori wondering just
when they'd actually be able to talk without being interrupted. He sighed, following in
the wake of Nuriko's trail.
They hadn't gone far when he saw Nuriko stop, catching his breath as he leaned against one
of the rocks along the path they were forging.
"What is it... are you alright?" His tone was one of genuine concern, and Nuriko was
expecting anything other than the flash of pain in Hotohori's eyes. Why was he that
worried?
"Daijoubou..." He smiled, bringing himself to stand fully once more. "I think you should
take the lead though... this would be easier if I was a normal man."
Hotohori looked confused at that, raising a brow in question. "Nani? What do you mean?"
Nuriko laughed, extending his arms to the side for a moment as if putting himself on
display. "Just *look* at me, Hotohori-sama! I'm too thin, I'm small... I make a better
woman, I think." The smile was infectious, and the Emperor found himself chuckling as he
stepped in front of his companion, leading the way up the mountain.
"I don't know... I wouldn't want to see you making this trip in a dress." He smirked,
glancing over his shoulder to see the stunned expression on Nuriko's face. That was enough
to get him laughing once more, imagining what must be going through the other's head.
Before long, they had arrived at their destination, and Nuriko whistled faintly as he
looked at the tremendous boulder that blocked the doorway they had seen from below.
"I'm not looking forward to that..."
"Nani?"
Nuriko smiled, shrugging faintly. "We either find another way in, or I have to move that
thing." He glanced in either direction briefly and turned to the right, moving towards
the ledge that the door was embedded into. "You check the other side... I'll look over
here." He didn't look back, keeping his attention on the rock face and any sign that would
indicate another entrance.
Watching Nuriko move off, Hotohori sighed, shaking his head as he realized that he'd have
to wait yet again to speak to him. It was a conversation better made when they didn't have
duty to attend to. He walked to the left of the rock, following the rock face and also
looking for another entry. He didn't realize that he was on an incline until he stepped
onto the end of the narrow path he'd been walking. Before him was open sky, and he caught
himself staggering back with the suddenness as it appeared. Looking down, he saw the
boulder below him and a bemused Nuriko looking up. By Suzaku... if he'd looked frail
before, Nuriko appeared to be positively tiny from this vantage point. Hard to believe
that such strength was housed in such a small body.
"Now how did you get all the way up there??"
He heard Nuriko's voice wafting up to him and could make it out so long as the wind didn't
interfere. He merely shrugged, chuckling at what seemed to be his run of luck today. "I
have no idea! But I think I'd better go back before the wind knocks me off here."
Nuriko nodded, stepping towards the boulder and calling up to him. "I'll start moving
this. Get the flare ready, so we can let the others know." He let his hands grip the
boulder then, bracing himself for the task he knew would come. Just as he was about to
lift it, something gave him pause... and he slowly turned to see the wolf-creature from
the town barrelling towards him.
Digging for the flare, it was a few moments before Hotohori noticed something amiss. He
had grasped hold of the flare and was about to call down to Nuriko, when he saw the monster
attack. Nuriko was thrown against the mountainside hard enough to knock loose stones down
to the ground. "NURIKO!!" Neither of them paid him any mind... he didn't expect Nuriko
to, but he was hoping to distract the wolf-man for a brief instant. This time, however,
it wasn't working. He brought up the flare, setting it off into a bright flash that would
attract the attention of the other seishi. Suzaku, please... let them be close by! He
wedged the flare into the rock face, knowing full well that it could be seen from town.
Just as he was about to draw his sword and bolt for the confrontation, he felt a searing
pain spread through his chest hard enough to knock him to his knees. Looking down, time
seemed to stop as his eyes grew wide with horror.
All Nuriko saw was sky above... and the small face of Hotohori on the mountainside. Each
breath was agony as he dangled there, held above the ground by something he couldn't see.
Slowly he let his gaze lower, and saw the claws protruding from his chest, the blood...
*his* blood... pooling from the wounds to trace down his sides. *Oh gods... this is
it...* He closed his eyes for a brief moment, remembering. This thing... it had been
after Miaka before. He couldn't let it get to her again! Reaching back in a sudden
movement that felt as though it were tearing him in half, he grabbed the fur on the
monster's shoulders, pulling himself up and off the claws to land behind the thing's back.
A low growl rose into the air, but it didn't come from the wolf-man... Nuriko's eyes were
narrowed in sheer hatred as his arm wrapped about the furred throat, his hand pressing
against the side of his attacker's head. His eyes closed tightly and he let his strength
take over... tightening his grip steadily until he felt bone shatter and the jerking body
went limp in his arms.
Blood... there was so much blood. Hotohori raced down the path, finally having Nuriko
within his sight once more. He saw the body of his enemy at Nuriko's feet, the seishi
standing there motionless. His clothes... they were soaked with blood... how much was his
own? He rushed forward, catching the smaller man just as it seemed he'd fall. He felt the
tight grip on his clothing as Nuriko fought to remain on his feet, steadying himself.
"I'll be alright, Hotohori-sama... just a bit shakey."
Like hell... Nuriko's face was pale as the snow they stood upon, and Hotohori let out a
strangled gasp as he felt the slender hands push against him, Nuriko wakling slowly towards
the boulder that blocked the door. "Nuriko, NO! They're on their way... let Mitsukake
heal you!" He ran forward, trying to stop his injured companion from doing something that
might finish the job that the beast had begun. He was brought up short by the glare he
received, and the threatening tone in Nuriko's voice.
"Don't... stop me..." Blood trailed from his lips and from somewhere beneath the thick
violet hair. There was a bright trail that followed the seishi's every move, but he didn't
seem to notice. "Not much time left... if I don't move it... we've lost."
Hotohori paled, seeing that nothing he could say or do would sway the other. "Nuriko...
onegai..."
"Get out of my way... or I'll drop this thing on *you*." Nuriko braced himself against
the boulder, leaning there for a moment before crouching and finding the handholds that
he'd discovered earlier. *This is it...* He thought to himself. *Don't let her down...
don't let them lose because of you...* His hands tightened and he bit back the pain that
coursed through every limb as the boulder slowly started to move.
All the Emperor could do was stand in shock, knowing full well what this would do. Tears
welled in his eyes as he saw Nuriko dig in, forcing the monstrous stone from its resting
place. Blood that had started to slow now coursed in streams down the dying seishi's chest
and back.
*Don't let it go... don't you dare!* His thoughts drove him when his body would have
given in. His was the gift of strength, amplified by the gauntlets that Taiitsukun had
given him. Those gauntlets now shone a deep crimson, casting their light upon the snow as
Nuriko pulled every ounce of strength he had, forcing it into his limbs and willing them to
perform as if nothing was wrong. He felt the pain rising, and it only angered him
further... the boulder left the ground slowly, the seishi gaining momentum as a scream of
desperation erupted from his lips. The sound echoed off the mountains, but the act of
forcing it free gave him the final surge that he needed. As stone met stone, the ground
shook violently... and Nuriko stood before the unsealed door to the resting place of the
shinzaho.
A faint light glistened above him and he found his eyes drawn up to it against his will.
It grew slowly in intensity, and in the very center of it, he could see a small pair of
eyes watching him... eyes so very much like his own. His body was numb, the pain strangely
distant now as a smile crossed his face. His words were barely a whisper, that being all
he could force himself to do. "Kourin... how long have you been there?"
Hotohori began moving towards Nuriko the moment the boulder fell, his blood running cold
as he heard the softly spoken words and saw the wounded seishi crumble to the ground.
Dropping to his knees, he pulled Nuriko's broken body closer, cradling his head gently
against him. "Nuriko, no... stay with me, please!" What could he do... what could he
say... oh gods, please let someone get here soon. His heart lifted as he heard the faint
shouts of the other seishi growing closer. "They're on their way... Mitsukake will heal
you, just stay with me."
Breathing was getting harder and harder. As blood began to slowly fill his lungs, Nuriko
knew that the others wouldn't arrive in time. He'd succeeded though... the shinzaho was
theirs. Looking up through half lidded eyes, he smiled to the one who was so dear to him.
"Hotohori-sama... may... may I do something?"
He blinked, looking down at Nuriko, his eyes widened faintly. "Anything... anything, so
long as you don't die... don't give up yet."
Nuriko's hand lifted, shaking as the fingers brushed against Hotohori's cheek. *His face
is so warm... no... it's me. My hands are cold... I'm so cold...* His lips moved
faintly with the last remaining strength he had, his voice a rough whisper. "Aishiteru...
Saihitei." Not able to hold it up any longer, his hand dropped to his chest... but he
never felt it. His eyes closed then, his breath leaving him with those final words.
Hotohori was stunned, tears falling freely down his cheeks as he felt Nuriko's body fall
limp in his arms. "No... oh gods, no... NURIKO!" He didn't hear the pounding feet
racing towards him, barely felt someone's hands on his shoulders, shaking him. Voices
were raised, panic... Miaka was screaming. None of it mattered. He curled forward,
holding tightly to Nuriko's body as his own shook violently. He felt himself being
pulled away slowly, Mitsukake taking Nuriko into his arms as Chichiri led Hotohori a short
distance from them. Chichiri was going to talk to him... try and make things better,
perhaps. That was the thought in his mind when a rough hand grabbed him from behind,
spinning him around.
"You self absorbed pompous BASTARD!" Tasuki nearly made a lunge for him then, only stopped
by Chichiri coming between them, using his own body to keep them apart.
"Stop this!! Fighting each other won't bring him back!" The words were lost on Hotohori,
who couldn't even form a coherent thought, and Tasuki who was too livid with grief to see
straight.
The bandit backed down, his hands tightened into fists as he glared at Hotohori, nothing
but rage and loss in his eyes. "You've kicked him to the fucking side ever since you met
him, and now you have the nerve to cry. You never cared about him before... it's a little
late to pretend now that he's dead." Tasuki spit at the ground near Hotohori's feet,
brining one hand up to point towards him. "All he ever wanted was for you to even give
him the time of day... too fucking bad it took him dying for that to happen. Every
single time he's cried over you... I swear, I hope you find out exactly what he felt like."
Hotohori could only stand there, lowering his gaze as Tasuki stormed away, falling to his
knees beside Nitsukake and Nuriko. He didn't know what to say... what *could* he say...
"He's grief stricken, Highness. He doesn't know what he says." The soft tone of
Chichiri's voice was soothing, but it didn't even begin to make the feelings go away.
"He's right, Chichiri..." Hotohori brought one hand to his eyes, shaking his head. "I
never knew... and now it's too late."
The next hours were a haze as Nuriko was buried on Mount Black. Each dealt with their
grief in their own way, but all felt the loss just as deeply. It was with an undercurrent
of sorrow that the six remaining seishi and their Miko entered the doors behind which lay
the shinzaho... the relic that one of their own had given his very life for them to have.
They would not let his death be in vain.
* * *
TBC
---------------------
The seven seishi and their Miko surrounded the table, each lending ideas and advice for
finding the shinzaho of Genbu. They had finally reached Tolan and decided that the local
tavern would be a good place to relax and sort out just what they were going to do next.
Tamahome and Miaka stayed close to each other, as they tended to do... Tasuki and Nuriko
were daring each other as to who could drink more, but neither were willing to take that
bet just now. There was a job to do, and being blind stinking drunk wouldn't help any.
Mitsukake, Chiriko and Hotohori were putting out suggestions of a possible location, and
Chichiri occasionally put in his own ideas. At first, it seemed that their number would
only be six... until Hotohori's chief advisor offered to cover for him for at least a
short while. If anything happened in the Emperor's absense, word would be sent
immediately, and Chichiri would whisk Hotohori back to Konan.
The atmosphere was tense, but not as badly as it had been thus far. Finally, they were
within sight of their goal. Tamahome and Chichiri were the first to notice the obscure
glances from a group of local men sitting a few tables away. The two exchanged eye
contact, simply nodding in affirmation. If the men tried anything, those two would be
ready for them. Sure enough, it wasn't long before one of the group, well into his cups,
staggered over to the table the seishi occupied. Nuriko was startled nearly out of his
chair when a strong hand clapped down on his shoulder and the alcohol-laden breath met his
senses.
"Hey there, beautiful... what do you say you leave these boys and come sit with the *real*
men..." There was a chorus of stifled laughter from the other table, but none of them saw
the dangerous glint that made itself apparent in the slender seishi's eyes. Chichiri was
the first to notice it, and in an instant knew what was going to happen. Nuriko's left
hand balled into a fist while the thumb of the other worked to crack the knuckles of his
right hand. Once that was accomplished... giving his 'admirer' plenty of time to rethink
his move... Nuriko stood up suddenly from his chair, coming full swing as he did so, using
his body's movement as force behind his punch. It was the only way he knew of to not kill
the man... he didn't trust his strength when he was angered. His fist connected with the
man's jaw, knocking him into the air to fly back and land next to the table with his
friends. The local men sat in astonishment, jaws slack as they helped their friend to his
feet and decided that perhaps the tavern wasn't a good place to be at the moment.
Hotohori and Tasuki had risen to their feet, the Emperor stunned by Nuriko's actions...
while Tasuki was giving feedback on form and style. Nuriko barely noticed either, however,
his eyes still blazing with fury. The other seishi knew when to leave well enough alone,
but Hotohori approached his comrade, a look of concern on his face.
"Nuriko... wasn't that just a bit..." He paused as Nuriko spun around to face him, still
seething, but at least calming down for now. Choosing his words carefully, he continued.
"I think maybe you overreacted slightly."
Nuriko's eyes widened faintly, and his attitude seemed to shift into his normal state of
being. Only Chichiri realized what was happening, knowing full well about 'masks'... be
they physical or emotional. He got to his feet slowly, edging closer to the two, hoping
to diffuse the situation before it got out of hand. The voilet-haired seishi crossed his
arms over his chest, looking up to Hotohori in amazement. "Overreacting? Me?" He shook
his head faintly, narrowing his eyes and tilting his head to the side as if trying to look
around the Emperor. "Hotohori-sama?"
"Nani?"
"Turn around a moment... what's that on your tunic?" Nuriko looked genuinely concerned...
and Chichiri just sighed as the Emperor fell for it, hook, line and sinker.
Hotohori's gaze dropped to his waist, his hands smoothing the fabric. "What is it?" He
looked in vain, turning his back to Nuriko, who reacted in that same instant. All the
Emperor felt was a tug on his belt, his hand flying to the spot as he realized his own
dagger had just been drawn. On instinct, his hand closed on the hilt of his sword and he
twisted around to defend himself. What greeted his eyes was Nuriko's glare as he brought
the dagger to bear against his own pale neck. Hotohori was about to shout for him to stop
when the blade moved... not against the skin, as they had feared, but outward.
The weapon sliced through the thick braid, which fell to the ground in a twisted heap as
Nuriko turned the dagger, holding it by the tip of the blade. His voice was a growl as he
glanced to the other seishi, already on their feet from the moment the first weapon was
drawn. "No, Hotohori-sama... *that* was overreacting." He flung his arm to the side,
sending the dagger flying to embed itself upright in the table. The blade was still
quivering in its resting place when Nuriko turned to the door, stalking out into the snow.
Hotohori stood in shock, not knowing how to react to what he had just witnessed. The
others mirrored his response, none having ever seen Nuriko behave so rashly.
The first to move was Tasuki, stepping forward and dropping to one knee as he scooped up
the fallen braid in his hand. He stared at the lavender strands, watching the cut end
start to unwind itself slowly. Taking a small leather strip and tearing it free from his
belt, he tied off the loose end, rising to his feet. A pouch at his side was quickly
emptied of its contents, those being dumped into another before he pushed the braid into
it, closing the small bag. His gaze turned to Hotohori then, and the contempt in his eyes
was plain. He was about to speak, but then thought better of it, moving towards the door
and calling over his shoulder. "I'm going to go check on him... back in a minute."
The other five and Miaka just blinked, looking to each other in confusion. What the hell
had just happened? Hotohori sheathed his sword, sighing softly. "I feel at fault for at
least some of that... I'll go see how he's doing as well." The others simply nodded in
silence, watching the Emperor walk out of the tavern. Chichiri sat back in his chair,
watching the now closed door thoughtfully. He waved away the silent questioning glances
of his companions, keeping his thoughts to himself for now. Something was going on here...
and he had a good idea of what that was.
* * *
Tasuki glanced around, scratching his head as he tried to figure out where his fellow
seishi had gone. Footprints in the snow finally caught his eye and he followed them
around the side of the building, nearly tripping over Nuriko sitting in the snow with his
back against the tavern wall. He rested his back against the wood, sliding down until he
was sitting next to the older seishi, not quite sure what to say. He watched Nuriko for a
few moments, the other never even looking up.
Nuriko sat with his legs bent, arms draped across his knees and head bowed to gaze at the
snow. A faint smile crossed his face for a moment as a small leather pouch landed in his
range of sight and he heard Tasuki's hesitant voice.
"Care to talk about it?"
He almost laughed. Figures... of any who would come out here, it would be Tasuki.
"Iie..." Came the soft reply, but his hand reached down to pick up the pouch, tying it
to his belt. "Arigatou, Tasuki." Nuriko looked to him then, eyes shimmering faintly with
tears that refused to fall, the hollow smile upon his face one more. "Maybe I'll take it
to Kourin's grave..."
The bandit raised a brow, relaxing just a bit. At least he was talking, that was an
improvement. Neither of them heard Hotohori leave the tavern or come towards them. Just
as he was about to turn the corner, the Emperor stopped, hearing their voices. He backed
up, leaning against the wall out of their sight, but well within earshot. Tasuki turned
faintly to face Nuriko a bit better, his expression slightly curious. "If you don't mind
me asking... who's Kourin?"
"Ah... you weren't there when I told Tamahome and Miaka about my sister, were you?"
Nuriko let his head fall back against the wall as he looked up into the clouded sky.
"I'll tell you about her, if you like." He heard the faint sound of affirmation from his
right and took a breath, beginning his tale.
* * *
He couldn't breathe... Hotohori pressed his back against the wall, eyes widened as he
stared off into the distance. That was why... why Nuriko had come to the palace. He had
fought to keep still during the story, several times wanting to rush around the corner and
bring Nuriko into his arms and tell him everything would be fine. Much as the smaller
seishi had done for him numerous times. The shining eyes and cheerful laugh were always
soothing to Hotohori. When Miaka had left for her own world, it was Nuriko that had kept
him sane. All this time, he never saw the scars that were just beneath the surface of that
ever present smile.
"So... you became Kourin after she died?" Tasuki was stunned as well, but he hadn't known
Nuriko as long as some of the others had. To him, it was a revelation, but nothing
compared to what it meant to the Emperor. "Why change your mind now?"
Nuriko chuckled dryly, shaking his head. "It doesn't matter anymore. He loves Miaka. I
never stood a chance, not when he has been dreaming of Suzaku no Miko his entire life."
His fingers toyed with the strings of the pouch that held the long braid, giving him
something to occupy himself as he tried to organize his thoughts. "Kourin might have been
able to change his mind... but me? Once he found out I was a man, it was all over."
Tasuki brought his arms over his chest, shifting his position slightly and trying to sort
out all of what he'd just been told. "Alright. That explains a bit of it... but if
Kourin was the only one who loved Hotohori, it wouldn't be hitting you this badly. I don't
even want to know how long this has been building up for you to snap like that."
The slender seishi didn't respond at first, only shook his head faintly, biting back the
tears that threatened to unleash. He wouldn't cry... not now... not here. "Kourin loved
the Emperor, not me."
Hotohori stifled a gasp... why did it feel like someone had thrust a fist into his chest
when he'd heard those words? Did he truly feel that strongly about Nuriko? Why wouldn't
he have noticed before now? His mind was in a haze as that phrase repeated itself in his
mind. 'Not me...' He let his head rest against the wall as he heard Nuriko continue.
"Kourin would have loved the Emperor, therefore I did as well. I had been there for a
couple of months when I started realizing that there was something else. I would catch
glimpses of him away from the Court, when he thought no one was watching." A hint of a
smile, a true one, graced Nuriko's features as he spoke. "That was what endeared me to him.
Those moments when he was truly himself, not the Emperor, not Hotohori." He glanced
towards Tasuki then, hoping that he understood. "Kourin loved the Emperor. I love
Saihitei."
'I love Saihitei.' Those simple words nearly brought Hotohori to his knees. He couldn't
listen any longer. Moving silently, he made his way back to the tavern door in a daze.
How long had he been blind? All he'd ever wanted was someone to love him for who he was,
not what he was. That person had been before him this entire time and he hadn't seen.
Nuriko was a man, however... and no matter how his feelings ran, a relationship with
another man wouldn't bring about an heir to the throne. He shivered inwardly, wondering
just when it was that the thought of possibly being in love with another man had stopped
seeming so wrong.
Tasuki simply ran his hands through the shock of red hair on his head, sighing heavily.
"Well... I hope he wakes up soon then. You two are good for each other, I see it every
time you make him laugh and forget about that crown on his head." He may be brash, but he
wasn't stupid. The bandit had seen the two of them together, and even if Hotohori didn't
realize it, Tasuki knew that the Emperor would crumble without Nuriko's steady hand to keep
him on track. Especially with all the events of the past few months...
Nuriko only laughed, shaking his head and pushing himself up to stand. "I won't hold my
breath." He extended a hand then, grinning as he always did. "Come on.. we've got to
figure out how to get this shinzaho and get the hell out of here. I think my toes are
frozen."
The younger seishi laughed, taking the offered hand and getting to his feet as well. He
stopped then, his expression turning serious as he looked to Nuriko. "You going to be
alright?"
A light chuckle was his response, and a wave of a slender hand. "I'm always alright,
Tasuki... someone in this group has to be." With that, they rounded the corner of the
building, heading back towards the warmth of the inside. Neither noticed the third set of
footprints that had stopped mere feet from where they had been sitting.
* * *
They'd decided to split up to look for any clues as to the whereabouts of the shinzaho.
Hotohori had been expecting different arrnagements, but found himself smiling when he was
paired up with Nuriko. This would be a good time to talk... and maybe he could finally
get things right between the two of them. They couldn't be together, that much was
unavoidable. But perhaps... perhaps they could be more than friends. The Emperor was
allowed consorts, who was to say that one of them couldn't be male?
The seishi parted ways then, each of the four groups heading off into a different direction.
They weren't quite certain what it was that they were looking for, but it was common
agreement that they'd know it when they saw it. Hotohori found himself at a loss for
words once he was alone with the older seishi. They walked in silence, Nuriko peering
into any old buildings that they came across and trying to find any people that might be
able to help. Hotohori still couldn't get used to how such a simple thing as short hair
could alter the appearance of man he accompanied. He saw Nuriko stop a few paces away and
appear to be in thought. Well, he had to start somewhere, and silence was getting them no
where. When he finally spoke, it was to his surprise that Nuriko echoed his words.
"Gomen..."
They both blinked, looking to each other. Nuriko brought one hand to his lips, smirking
faintly before erupting into giggles. "Oh that's good... neither of us knows what to say
and we both decide to speak up at the same time. He cleared his throat faintly, smiling
as he looked up at the taller man. "I'm sorry for earlier, Hotohori-sama. I was upset
but shouldn't have taken it out on you."
"Iie..." Hotohori waved a hand absently, trying to think of the right words. "I shouldn't
have said anything. I have no control here... for once, I'm not the Emperor, I'm only a
man." He was about to continue when his thoughts were interrupted by a shrill scream
nearby. Both seishi jumped into action, bolting towards the sound. It was Miaka...
either of them could recognize that voice anywhere.
Nuriko fumbled for the flare that Chiriko had given to them. One was held by each group,
to be used as a means to contact the others should anything be discovered. If trouble was
at hand, it might be needed. As the two burst into the clearing near the center of town,
they saw Tamahome curled protectively around Miaka... he was injured, that much they could
see. A wolf-like creature was about to charge them, its jaws gaping in a feral snarl. It
must have sensed the arrival of the other two, because it turned towards them, growling
harshly for a moment. Nuriko took that slight distraction as a welcome chance, leaping
forward towards the thing. Once he was close enough, the flare was snapped, sending the
bright flames into the face of the monster. An unearthly howl broke through the air, and
the creature apparently decided that the odds currently were not in its favor. It turned
and ran, disappearing quickly amidst the buildings of the town.
Hotohori was kneeling beside Tamahome and Miaka, making certain they were alright. Once
Miaka had calmed down enough, he asked what had happened, and found out that they had
discovered the whereabouts of the shinzaho. Nuriko kept an eye around them in case of
further attack once it was also revealed that one of the Seiryuu seishi, Suboshi, had made
an appearance. They had to be here for the same reason. Suzaku couldn't be summoned
normally because of the loss of the scroll... Seiryuu couldn't be summoned without all
seven seishi, and with Amiboshi dead, that left both sides in the same boat. This wasn't
going to be pretty.
With Miaka shaken and Tamahome hurt, it was decided that Nuriko and Hotohori would make
the journey to nearby Mount Black, where the shinzaho was supposed to be kept, to scout
the area while the other seishi were gathered. It would also give Tamahome a chance to
get healed by Mitsukake. They returned to the tavern, saddling two horses and making their
preparations.
* * *
The horses hooves clopped against the snow laden ground with a hollow sound. They'd
remained in silence once more as they set out, save for a few hopeful words of their goal
being achieved. It was driving Nuriko insane. Both of them were uncomfortable, that much
was obvious. Finally, he spoke up, breaking the stillness that surrounded them.
"Being the silent type today, Hotohori-sama?" The startled expression on the other man's
face was enough to make him smile and he shook his head faintly. "We make quite a pair.
Always know what to say, but when it comes to talking to each other, it seems like that
only happens when you're sick with concern over Miaka."
From anyone else, he would have been annoyed at such a statement... but Nuriko was right.
He went through his mind, remembering all the times that they had truly talked, and it all
was the same. Nuriko was the one to comfort him and make him think of other things while
Miaka was away. He felt the soft ache in his chest once more and was about to rspond when
he felt his horse lurch beneath him. Only years of riding experience kept him from being
crushed beneath the beast as it went down on the icy ground. A few minutes of examination
proved that the creature was uninjured, just frightened after its tumble. Nuriko slid
from his own horse then, tying the reins to a tree nearby.
"The ground's too dangerous for them. We'll have to go the rest of the way on foot." He
lifted a hand against the glare of the snow, narrowing his eyes as he looked up the
mountainside. A whoop of joy left his lips then and he pointed up towards the side of the
mountain. "There it is! I think I see some kind of door. Come on!" He began to wade
through the deep snow, moving towards the spot he'd seen, leaving Hotohori wondering just
when they'd actually be able to talk without being interrupted. He sighed, following in
the wake of Nuriko's trail.
They hadn't gone far when he saw Nuriko stop, catching his breath as he leaned against one
of the rocks along the path they were forging.
"What is it... are you alright?" His tone was one of genuine concern, and Nuriko was
expecting anything other than the flash of pain in Hotohori's eyes. Why was he that
worried?
"Daijoubou..." He smiled, bringing himself to stand fully once more. "I think you should
take the lead though... this would be easier if I was a normal man."
Hotohori looked confused at that, raising a brow in question. "Nani? What do you mean?"
Nuriko laughed, extending his arms to the side for a moment as if putting himself on
display. "Just *look* at me, Hotohori-sama! I'm too thin, I'm small... I make a better
woman, I think." The smile was infectious, and the Emperor found himself chuckling as he
stepped in front of his companion, leading the way up the mountain.
"I don't know... I wouldn't want to see you making this trip in a dress." He smirked,
glancing over his shoulder to see the stunned expression on Nuriko's face. That was enough
to get him laughing once more, imagining what must be going through the other's head.
Before long, they had arrived at their destination, and Nuriko whistled faintly as he
looked at the tremendous boulder that blocked the doorway they had seen from below.
"I'm not looking forward to that..."
"Nani?"
Nuriko smiled, shrugging faintly. "We either find another way in, or I have to move that
thing." He glanced in either direction briefly and turned to the right, moving towards
the ledge that the door was embedded into. "You check the other side... I'll look over
here." He didn't look back, keeping his attention on the rock face and any sign that would
indicate another entrance.
Watching Nuriko move off, Hotohori sighed, shaking his head as he realized that he'd have
to wait yet again to speak to him. It was a conversation better made when they didn't have
duty to attend to. He walked to the left of the rock, following the rock face and also
looking for another entry. He didn't realize that he was on an incline until he stepped
onto the end of the narrow path he'd been walking. Before him was open sky, and he caught
himself staggering back with the suddenness as it appeared. Looking down, he saw the
boulder below him and a bemused Nuriko looking up. By Suzaku... if he'd looked frail
before, Nuriko appeared to be positively tiny from this vantage point. Hard to believe
that such strength was housed in such a small body.
"Now how did you get all the way up there??"
He heard Nuriko's voice wafting up to him and could make it out so long as the wind didn't
interfere. He merely shrugged, chuckling at what seemed to be his run of luck today. "I
have no idea! But I think I'd better go back before the wind knocks me off here."
Nuriko nodded, stepping towards the boulder and calling up to him. "I'll start moving
this. Get the flare ready, so we can let the others know." He let his hands grip the
boulder then, bracing himself for the task he knew would come. Just as he was about to
lift it, something gave him pause... and he slowly turned to see the wolf-creature from
the town barrelling towards him.
Digging for the flare, it was a few moments before Hotohori noticed something amiss. He
had grasped hold of the flare and was about to call down to Nuriko, when he saw the monster
attack. Nuriko was thrown against the mountainside hard enough to knock loose stones down
to the ground. "NURIKO!!" Neither of them paid him any mind... he didn't expect Nuriko
to, but he was hoping to distract the wolf-man for a brief instant. This time, however,
it wasn't working. He brought up the flare, setting it off into a bright flash that would
attract the attention of the other seishi. Suzaku, please... let them be close by! He
wedged the flare into the rock face, knowing full well that it could be seen from town.
Just as he was about to draw his sword and bolt for the confrontation, he felt a searing
pain spread through his chest hard enough to knock him to his knees. Looking down, time
seemed to stop as his eyes grew wide with horror.
All Nuriko saw was sky above... and the small face of Hotohori on the mountainside. Each
breath was agony as he dangled there, held above the ground by something he couldn't see.
Slowly he let his gaze lower, and saw the claws protruding from his chest, the blood...
*his* blood... pooling from the wounds to trace down his sides. *Oh gods... this is
it...* He closed his eyes for a brief moment, remembering. This thing... it had been
after Miaka before. He couldn't let it get to her again! Reaching back in a sudden
movement that felt as though it were tearing him in half, he grabbed the fur on the
monster's shoulders, pulling himself up and off the claws to land behind the thing's back.
A low growl rose into the air, but it didn't come from the wolf-man... Nuriko's eyes were
narrowed in sheer hatred as his arm wrapped about the furred throat, his hand pressing
against the side of his attacker's head. His eyes closed tightly and he let his strength
take over... tightening his grip steadily until he felt bone shatter and the jerking body
went limp in his arms.
Blood... there was so much blood. Hotohori raced down the path, finally having Nuriko
within his sight once more. He saw the body of his enemy at Nuriko's feet, the seishi
standing there motionless. His clothes... they were soaked with blood... how much was his
own? He rushed forward, catching the smaller man just as it seemed he'd fall. He felt the
tight grip on his clothing as Nuriko fought to remain on his feet, steadying himself.
"I'll be alright, Hotohori-sama... just a bit shakey."
Like hell... Nuriko's face was pale as the snow they stood upon, and Hotohori let out a
strangled gasp as he felt the slender hands push against him, Nuriko wakling slowly towards
the boulder that blocked the door. "Nuriko, NO! They're on their way... let Mitsukake
heal you!" He ran forward, trying to stop his injured companion from doing something that
might finish the job that the beast had begun. He was brought up short by the glare he
received, and the threatening tone in Nuriko's voice.
"Don't... stop me..." Blood trailed from his lips and from somewhere beneath the thick
violet hair. There was a bright trail that followed the seishi's every move, but he didn't
seem to notice. "Not much time left... if I don't move it... we've lost."
Hotohori paled, seeing that nothing he could say or do would sway the other. "Nuriko...
onegai..."
"Get out of my way... or I'll drop this thing on *you*." Nuriko braced himself against
the boulder, leaning there for a moment before crouching and finding the handholds that
he'd discovered earlier. *This is it...* He thought to himself. *Don't let her down...
don't let them lose because of you...* His hands tightened and he bit back the pain that
coursed through every limb as the boulder slowly started to move.
All the Emperor could do was stand in shock, knowing full well what this would do. Tears
welled in his eyes as he saw Nuriko dig in, forcing the monstrous stone from its resting
place. Blood that had started to slow now coursed in streams down the dying seishi's chest
and back.
*Don't let it go... don't you dare!* His thoughts drove him when his body would have
given in. His was the gift of strength, amplified by the gauntlets that Taiitsukun had
given him. Those gauntlets now shone a deep crimson, casting their light upon the snow as
Nuriko pulled every ounce of strength he had, forcing it into his limbs and willing them to
perform as if nothing was wrong. He felt the pain rising, and it only angered him
further... the boulder left the ground slowly, the seishi gaining momentum as a scream of
desperation erupted from his lips. The sound echoed off the mountains, but the act of
forcing it free gave him the final surge that he needed. As stone met stone, the ground
shook violently... and Nuriko stood before the unsealed door to the resting place of the
shinzaho.
A faint light glistened above him and he found his eyes drawn up to it against his will.
It grew slowly in intensity, and in the very center of it, he could see a small pair of
eyes watching him... eyes so very much like his own. His body was numb, the pain strangely
distant now as a smile crossed his face. His words were barely a whisper, that being all
he could force himself to do. "Kourin... how long have you been there?"
Hotohori began moving towards Nuriko the moment the boulder fell, his blood running cold
as he heard the softly spoken words and saw the wounded seishi crumble to the ground.
Dropping to his knees, he pulled Nuriko's broken body closer, cradling his head gently
against him. "Nuriko, no... stay with me, please!" What could he do... what could he
say... oh gods, please let someone get here soon. His heart lifted as he heard the faint
shouts of the other seishi growing closer. "They're on their way... Mitsukake will heal
you, just stay with me."
Breathing was getting harder and harder. As blood began to slowly fill his lungs, Nuriko
knew that the others wouldn't arrive in time. He'd succeeded though... the shinzaho was
theirs. Looking up through half lidded eyes, he smiled to the one who was so dear to him.
"Hotohori-sama... may... may I do something?"
He blinked, looking down at Nuriko, his eyes widened faintly. "Anything... anything, so
long as you don't die... don't give up yet."
Nuriko's hand lifted, shaking as the fingers brushed against Hotohori's cheek. *His face
is so warm... no... it's me. My hands are cold... I'm so cold...* His lips moved
faintly with the last remaining strength he had, his voice a rough whisper. "Aishiteru...
Saihitei." Not able to hold it up any longer, his hand dropped to his chest... but he
never felt it. His eyes closed then, his breath leaving him with those final words.
Hotohori was stunned, tears falling freely down his cheeks as he felt Nuriko's body fall
limp in his arms. "No... oh gods, no... NURIKO!" He didn't hear the pounding feet
racing towards him, barely felt someone's hands on his shoulders, shaking him. Voices
were raised, panic... Miaka was screaming. None of it mattered. He curled forward,
holding tightly to Nuriko's body as his own shook violently. He felt himself being
pulled away slowly, Mitsukake taking Nuriko into his arms as Chichiri led Hotohori a short
distance from them. Chichiri was going to talk to him... try and make things better,
perhaps. That was the thought in his mind when a rough hand grabbed him from behind,
spinning him around.
"You self absorbed pompous BASTARD!" Tasuki nearly made a lunge for him then, only stopped
by Chichiri coming between them, using his own body to keep them apart.
"Stop this!! Fighting each other won't bring him back!" The words were lost on Hotohori,
who couldn't even form a coherent thought, and Tasuki who was too livid with grief to see
straight.
The bandit backed down, his hands tightened into fists as he glared at Hotohori, nothing
but rage and loss in his eyes. "You've kicked him to the fucking side ever since you met
him, and now you have the nerve to cry. You never cared about him before... it's a little
late to pretend now that he's dead." Tasuki spit at the ground near Hotohori's feet,
brining one hand up to point towards him. "All he ever wanted was for you to even give
him the time of day... too fucking bad it took him dying for that to happen. Every
single time he's cried over you... I swear, I hope you find out exactly what he felt like."
Hotohori could only stand there, lowering his gaze as Tasuki stormed away, falling to his
knees beside Nitsukake and Nuriko. He didn't know what to say... what *could* he say...
"He's grief stricken, Highness. He doesn't know what he says." The soft tone of
Chichiri's voice was soothing, but it didn't even begin to make the feelings go away.
"He's right, Chichiri..." Hotohori brought one hand to his eyes, shaking his head. "I
never knew... and now it's too late."
The next hours were a haze as Nuriko was buried on Mount Black. Each dealt with their
grief in their own way, but all felt the loss just as deeply. It was with an undercurrent
of sorrow that the six remaining seishi and their Miko entered the doors behind which lay
the shinzaho... the relic that one of their own had given his very life for them to have.
They would not let his death be in vain.
* * *
TBC