1 Disclaimer: All the Fushigi Yuugi characters present in the fic do not
belong to me. They belong to the talented Yuu Watase-san. So please don't
sue me, unless you want textbooks. Sarah belongs to me, I created her, so
please don't kidnap her. Thank you.
2 Author's note: Arigato to Rekka-chan who helped me with the names of the four girls!
3
4 Life and Death
By: Ruri-chan
Sarah looked at herself in the mirror. "What's wrong with me?" She said. "There has to be something wrong with me or this wouldn't be happening. Maybe I'm not pretty enough." But what she saw in the mirror was not what other people saw. Sarah was a fairly pretty girl of 5'5". She had long, soft light brown hair and blue eyes. "Maybe I'm just too annoying." Around her friends she had a sparkling personality and she was always smiling. They never knew what she felt on the inside. Sarah turned and looked at her anime posters. She sighed, "If only…"
She sat on her bed and looked down. She then repeated the question from before. "What's wrong with me? Or else this wouldn't be happening to me." Tears welled up in her eyes and silently fell down her cheeks. She thought about the past few weeks with her friends and always seemed to have noticed a trend. This trend has gotten her to think about herself and why it was happening. 'Why am I the only one that is feeling this hurt? I don't want to hurt anymore. They don't like me and they're just being nice to me. Why don't they just come right out and say it and take me out of my misery.' She continued sitting there for a while longer and came to a realization. 'I'll just take myself out of my misery. If I do then I won't feel this constant pain in my heart.'
She got up and went to the living room. She stood up on the highest place she could find and looked down. Finally, she would be at peace. Sarah turned around with her back facing the room. She leaned back and felt herself falling. Tears still falling from her eyes, she thought, 'Goodbye world.' Then there was a white flash and all became dark.
~~~
Sarah slowly opened her eyes to several faces peering down at her. She blinked a couple times. "Ah~ you're awake," one of them said.
"Where am I?" she asked.
"You are at the Konan palace," a deep voice rumbled.
"I'm not dead?"
They all blinked. "Iie, no da. You're alive, no da."
Sarah started. She knew those "no da"s. She took a good look around her and her eyes widened. Not believing what happened, she lay back down and closed her eyes again. 'This can't be happening. It's just a dream.' And she fell asleep.
~~~
Tasuki looked at the others, "What just happened?"
They all shrugged. "She probably was overwhelmed by something." Mitsukake said. "We should give her more time to sleep." They all nodded and left the room.
Hotohori took one glance back and left.
~~~
The next day, Mitsukake entered Sarah's room. He set down the tea and went over to her. Sarah slowly opened her eyes, "Mitsukake?"
He blinked, "How is it that you know my name?"
"Because I saw you in an anime."
"Eh? Are you saying you are from a different world, like Miaka?"
Sarah nodded. "But I'm not from Miaka's world either." She yawned.
Mitsukake handed her a cup, "Here, drink this."
Sarah drank it and handed it back to him, "Thank you."
"Are you feeling ok?"
Sarah nodded, "A little tired but fine."
Mitsukake nodded. "I will get the maids to get you a bath and some clothes to wear."
Sarah gave a small smile, "That would be nice."
Mitsukake smiled back and got up, "I will see you later." He left the room and told a maid nearby to get her a bath and clothes.
Inside the room Sarah looked down. 'Why am I here? I'm supposed to be dead. I felt myself falling, but how did I end up here?' She continued to sit there and think about it while the bath was being drawn. The ladies helped Sarah into the bath and left her alone. Still in the tub, Sarah thought about her strange situation.
~~~
Mitsukake met the others in the meeting room and nodded, "She's doing much better."
"Great, maybe we'll find out where she came from now." Tamahome said as he got up.
"I don't think you should do that now Tamahome-kun." Mitsukake advised.
He blinked, "Why not?"
"She's taking a bath right now." Tamahome sweatdropped.
"My only question is why of all times did this girl show up?!" Tasuki said.
Miaka smiled, "Don't worry Tasuki. Maybe she's another miko helping us defeat Kutou!" Tasuki stared at Miaka.
"But wouldn't she have landed in their country then, Miaka-san?" Chiriko asked.
Miaka though for a while, "That's right! The girl has to be in that country to be the miko. And she can't be Suzaku's because I'm Suzaku no Miko!" Everyone sweatdropped.
Hotohori gestured to a servant. "When the girl is finished bathing, bring her here." The servant bowed and silently left the room.
"Hotohori-sama?" Nuriko asked.
"She will meet us here and explain certain things for us. This is a critical time. Seiryuu has ruined the ceremony in summoning Suzaku and we must obtain the Shinzaho. We must know why she's here." Everyone nodded.
~~~
The maids finished clothing Sarah and she looked in the mirror. She was wearing a simple yet beautiful light, flowing blue dress and a white sash. Her hair was done low and a flower comb was set in her hair. The maids then ushered her out. "Where are you taking me?"
"The emperor wishes to see you," one of the said.
"Oh." Carefully, Sarah followed the maids, stumbling, wondering why he wanted to see her. She entered the room and everyone turned to look at her. She looked down.
"Please sit," she heard Hotohori say. She sat down. "What is your name?"
"Sarah."
"Why are you here?"
She shrugged, "I don't know. I was in the middle of something and I just ended up here."
Tasuki slammed the table, "Ya gotta be kidding me!"
She looked at him, "No, I'm not, Tasuki."
He blinked and the glared at her, "How the hell do ya know my name?"
"Because where I'm from this is an anime. I watch you all the time."
Miaka's eyes got big, "We're an anime where you're from? Sugoi!"
"So you're saying you're from a different world, no da?" Sarah nodded. "Da~"
"This is so weird," Nuriko said.
Ever since Tasuki interrupted him, Hotohori had his eyes closed. And when Nuriko finished speaking, he opened his eyes. "It may be, but right now all of you have a task." They all nodded. "You must leave immediately. This ship is almost ready and will leave in two days." He then turned to Sarah, "You may stay here for the time being Sarah."
Sarah bowed her head, "Thank you."
Everyone stood and left. Except for Hotohori, Nuriko and Sarah.
Nuriko smiled at Sarah, "That dress suits you very well, Sarah-san."
Sarah smiled, "Thanks, but you don't have to call me 'Sarah-san.' Just 'Sarah' will do."
Nuriko smiled, "Okay then. C'mon, I'll show you around before I leave."
"Thanks." And the two of them went off leaving Hotohori behind.
'There's something about that girl.' He thought.
Just then Chichiri appeared next to him, "Hotohori-sama, there's some urgent things they need you to take care of, no da."
"Thank you, Chichiri." Hotohori turned and followed him.
~~~
Sarah and Nuriko were walking in the garden after Nuriko had showed Sarah around the palace. "This is my favorite spot," he said.
"I can see why," Sarah commented, looking around. "It's so peaceful and beautiful here. No one can feel actual sadness here."
Nuriko gave a sidelong glance at Sarah. "Yeah." They sat on a bench under a tree and looked up. "The stars are bright tonight."
"Hey," Sarah said suddenly, "Aren't you scared about the journey?"
Nuriko looked at her and paused before saying anything. "I guess you can say that. I don't know what will happen to me. But I know that this is what I was destined for and I must fulfill my role as Suzaku Seishi."
Sarah nodded and looked up at the sky, "Everyone loves you so much. You're very lucky."
Nuriko was slightly taken aback by the comment. He wasn't expecting her to say something like that. From what he saw, she was a sweet girl. He felt, though, that there was some kind of longingness in her. Shaking the thought out of his mind he looked over at Sarah and found that she had fallen asleep leaning on him. He gave a small laugh, picked her up and started for her room. When he got to her room, he saw that Mitsukake was outside the door and he turned when he heard Nuriko coming.
"She's asleep?" he asked.
Nuriko nodded. "Hai. I'm just taking her inside to bed."
Mitsukake nodded, "I will help you." He opened the door for Nuriko.
"Arigato." Nuriko entered and laid Sarah on the bed.
Inside, after Nuriko pulled the covers over Sarah, he turned to Mitsukake. "Will she be fine?"
Mitsukake nodded. "She just needs rest, but other than that she's fine."
Nuriko looked down at Sarah, "I don't know, but there's something about her. Something really troublesome."
Mitsukake placed a hand on her forehead, "I am only a doctor. I heal wounds and illnesses. Unfortunately, I cannot look into the minds of my patients. But I agree with you Nuriko. There is something troubling her. For right now, though, we should let her be."
Nuriko nodded and they both left.
~~~
The next day, Sarah woke up to birds chirping and the sun shining. First she wondered how she got in her bed and remembered that Nuriko was with her. 'He must have carried me here.' There was a knock on her door. "Come in." She called.
The door slid open and Mitsukake entered. "Ohayo. How are you feeling today?"
Sarah smiled, "Much better, thank you." She looked at the tray that he brought. "What's that?"
"You're breakfast." He set it on the table while she got up and put on a robe. "You seem to be doing fine, but I'll check up on you from time to time today, just in case."
Sarah nodded, "Ok."
Mitsukake turned to leave. "I will be back. Tasuki asked me if I could do something with his hangover."
Sarah raised an eyebrow. "Tasuki ASKED you something? With a hangover?"
Mitsukake chuckled, "You're right." With that he left.
Sarah smiled and looked at her food. 'He's so sweet. But I still don't know how I ended up here.' She took the chopsticks and started eating. 'I guess I shouldn't get too close to everyone or I'll feel it again.' A knock on the door shook her out of her thoughts. "Come in." She called.
The door opened again and Hotohori, Nuriko, and Chichiri entered. She got up, but Hotohori gestured her to sit back down. "There's no need." He said, "We just came to see how you were."
Sarah smiled, "I'm fine, thank you."
Hotohori pointed to Chichiri, "Chichiri just had a question to ask you."
Sarah looked at the smiling monk. "Da. Sorry to put you on the spot, no da," Chichiri began. "But since you were from another world and knew all about us. I was wondering if you knew the future of this world, no da." Sarah looked down and nodded. "Do you think you can tell us something, no da?"
Sarah kept looking down for them not to see her tears. 'Is this why they're so kind to me? They want to pump information from me? Should I tell them? For them to accept me, I should. But I don't know if it should be known to them. I do want all of them to live in the end. Instead of just Chichiri, Tasuki, and Miaka.'
Nuriko looked worriedly at Sarah. The whole time he watched her as Chichiri was asking her. "Sarah? Daijoubu?"
Sarah nodded. "I… I just don't know if I'm to tell you or not."
Chichiri nodded. "That makes sense, no da. I think I'll ask Taiitsukun about that."
Sarah looked up at Chichiri a little surprised. 'So it's not just because I have the information. He was curious, but didn't press me to do anything or give anything away.' Sarah nodded. "That sounds like a plan."
Chichiri nodded and turned to Hotohori, "I'll be back, no da." With that he disappeared.
Hotohori and Nuriko turned back to Sarah. She looked at them. Then, Hotohori spoke up. "We will leave you alone now, so that you may get ready. The maids have brought several dresses for you to wear. They are in the closet." Sarah nodded as Nuriko and Hotohori left.
She stood up and went to a closet where Hotohori said her clothes were and opened it. Inside, were a variety of dresses in various colors and shades. They were all beautiful. She chose a pale blue dress with a dark blue sash. When the four maids attending Sarah knocked and entered the room, Sarah was still struggling to put on the sash. One of the maids giggled and Sarah looked up and blushed.
"Let us help you, Sarah-sama." One of the maids said.
Sarah smiled, "Thanks."
With the help of the maids, Sarah was properly dressed and she was now practicing how to walk without tipping over. Several minutes later, Sarah was walking across the room but half way she fell. The maids giggled and Sarah blushed. "This is harder than it looks."
The maid closest to her helped Sarah up. "You get used to it. And besides, you are already doing very well."
"Thanks," Sarah said. Then she paused. 'What am I doing? I can't get that close to them. But they are a sweet bunch of girls.'
Another maid placed a hand on Sarah's shoulder. "Sarah-sama? Daijoubu desuka?"
Sarah nodded smiled, "Hai. By the way, are you girls going to always attend to me?" The four nodded. "Then what are your names? I don't just want to call you guys 'You' or 'You there'."
The girls blinked and blushed. "No one has ever asked us that before." One of the girls said.
"Well, I'm no one, so you can tell me." Sara said, practicing again.
The four girls looked at each other and after a moment's pause the smallest girl stepped forward. "My name is Kasumi." Then she turned to the others and gave them a look.
The tallest girl stepped forward, "My name is Kei."
The girl with brown hair stepped forward and smiled, "My name is Jennilee."
The last girl had light brown eyes, "And I am Kozue."
Sarah smiled each in turn, "Nice to meet you! Now... if only I can walk!"
The four girls giggled and continued helping Sarah.
~~~
He was reading voraciously. With the upcoming journey he knew that there wouldn't be anytime to study as much and read as much as he liked. Chiriko sighed. There was so much to learn, all he could do was take in as much as he could. The door opened quietly and he looked to see who it was.
"Sarah-san?" he asked.
Sarah nodded, "Hai." She went over to him and sat next to him. "What are you doing? Studying?"
Chiriko nodded. "I love to study. Always helped calm me a little."
"That's nice." She peered at the scroll he was reading. "So what are you studying now?"
"Nothing much really. I just picked up a scroll. It's about science."
"Oh~. Sounds interesting. You're so lucky to be so smart. I wish I were that smart. Then my classes wouldn't be so hard and difficult."
Chiriko gripped the scroll. "Ne, Sarah-san? May I confide in you?"
Sarah blinked and nodded. "Hai, you can talk to me."
"You know a lot about us, ne? Like what our powers are and such?" Sarah nodded. "Well, sometimes I wish that my power was something other than intelligence."
"Why's that Chiriko? It's really a great power."
"It doesn't even last long. Besides, I'll be a burden to everyone because I'm so weak. If I was stronger like Tasuki-san or Nuriko-san. I'm sure I can be of much more use."
"Chiriko, look at me." Sarah looked into his wavering eyes, "You are so important. Not only are a Seishi but also you're their friend. I don't think I should tell you much about the future but let me tell you this much. You're not a burden and you'll be of much help to the others."
"Demo..."
Sarah interrupted, "No 'but's Chiriko. You're a special and talented boy." Then she winked, "Besides, you gotta keep the balance of intelligence. Too many dummies and you all might not survive."
Chiriko gave a small laugh. The door opened again and a guard bowed.
"Sumimasen, demo... the emperor would like to have a word with both of you."
Chiriko and Sarah looked at each other. "Well, we might as see what he wants." Sarah said, getting up. Chiriko nodded and followed her out.
~~~
The two arrived in the meeting room. When they entered, they found that the rest were already there and the looked up to the see the two of them enter.
"Please have a seat," Hotohori said.
Chiriko and Sarah gave a small bow and sat down.
"Chichiri has just returned from speaking with Taiitsukun and he said that Sarah should not reveal what is about to happen."
Everyone looked at Chichiri and the monk nodded, "Hai, no da. Taiitsukun said that the reason the things are happening is because it's supposed to happen, no da. Good or bad, reveal nothing, no da."
Sarah nodded. "Alright then. I won't reveal anything."
Hotohori nodded, "Now that is done with, let's go down to the docks and help prepare the ship, it almost ready for departure for tomorrow."
~~~
At the docks, Sarah was busy talking with the Seishi and looking out to the sea. Later, she turned to see Tamahome and Miaka leave. Then she remembered what was going to happen to his family. But she knew that she shouldn't reveal anything. She looked around and spotted Chichiri fishing and she went over to him.
Carefully, she sat down next to him, "Ne, Chichiri? May I ask you a question?"
"Hai, no da."
"About not telling anything... What if it doesn't make a lot of difference, I still can't tell?"
Chichiri looked at her, "I don't think so, no da. If you think about it, it may affect the future ahead, no da. Although it doesn't seem much of a change right now, there may be major changes later on in the future, no da."
Sarah looked out at the ship, "That makes sense. But there are certain things that I wish I could reveal, but I totally understand." She stood up. "Arigato. I guess I needed someone to make sure I didn't make a stupid mistake and I didn't jump into something."
"That is sometimes the best, no da."
Sarah started leaving, "Matta ne!"
~~~
The next day, Sarah stood with Hotohori, as the rest were getting ready to leave. She saw Tamahome walk towards her and had a vague idea what he was going to ask.
"Can I talk to you?" He asked quietly.
"Hai." Sarah nodded and went off to the side with Tamahome.
"You knew didn't you?"
Sarah blinked and looked down. "Gomen nasai."
"Why didn't tell me?" He said not looking at her.
Tears welled up in Sarah's eyes, "Gomen! But you were there when Chichiri said that I couldn't say anything. Not anything. I wanted tell you. They were so young and innocent. I didn't want it to repeat."
Tamahome sighed, "I understand. I'm sorry. I know you couldn't say anything about our future, but it still hurts the same. I couldn't be there to save them and protect them like I was supposed to. And I guess it made me even more mad that there was someone who knew and there was a way to stop the Seiryuu Seishi from killing them."
Sarah wiped her tears away. "It's all right. Just, be careful on your journey and always live for them. You're a special guy and everyone loves you and cares for you. Don't for get that."
Tamahome looked at her and they both smiled. Together they went back to where everyone else was.
Miaka walked up to them and placed her hands on her hips, "So where were you two?"
Sarah and Tamahome sweatdropped. "We weren't doing anything Miaka. I just had to ask her something really important. That's all."
Miaka looked at Sarah and Sarah nodded, "Honto da yo."
Tasuki walked up and laughed, "I'm sure. Obake-chan was probably getting it on with her to enjoy freedom one last time!"
Everyone facefaulted and Nuriko went behind him and smacked him, sending Tasuki to a nearby tree.
"Ah~! Sarah-san? Could you take a picture of all of us together?"
"Sure," Sarah said.
Sarah waited until everyone was gathered and they posed. "Make sure to take eight, Sarah-san!" Miaka called out.
Sarah nodded and focused the camera. "Minna! Smile!" Eight shots later, each Seishi was holding a picture and looking at it.
Miaka then went up to Sarah, "Ne, why don't you take a picture with everyone? So that when you go back, you have something to remember them by?"
Sarah smiled and the slightest glimmer was seen, "That would be great. But if it's okay with you, can I take them individually with everyone instead of a group? That way it feels more special."
Miaka gave an even bigger smile, "Good idea! Hai! I have plenty of film!" So together they went off to each of the Seishi.
The first person they found was Nuriko. Sarah and Nuriko both semi- faced each other, linked arms and winked at the camera. The next person they found was a reluctant Tasuki. But finally got him to pose. They were both mock glaring at each other but anyone could see the laughter in their eyes. Not to mention that they were both smirking. The picture of her and Tamahome was more normal (Miaka wouldn't have it any other way). They stood next to each other and smiled. Sarah was able to coax Mitsukake to kneel on one knee and then have her sit on his knee and hug him. "I don't mind," she said. "Besides, you were the one who took care of me this whole time!" The picture of her and Chiriko was the cutest. Sarah's face was at level with Chiriko's and the camera came more up close. They were smiling and hugging each other. The picture with her and Chichiri was the most interesting. Sarah was sitting cross-legged, arms stretched out and floating with Chichiri standing behind her, always smiling.
The two girls went to Hotohori. "I want the picture with him to look regal," Sarah told Miaka. They went up to him and Sarah smiled, "Ne, Hotohori? Would you mind taking a picture with me?"
Hotohori shook his head, "No, I do not mind."
Sarah smiled, "Wai!" She pulled Hotohori to a spot where the palace could be seen. "Stand there and look regal Hotohori."
"Don't I always?"
Sarah and Miaka sweatdropped. "Hai hai."
After Hotohori was posed, Sarah stood slightly in front of him and folded her hands in her sleeves just as Hotohori was doing. Then she looked at the camera serenely.
"Smile!" Miaka said. She took the picture and handed it to Sarah.
"Arigato, Miaka!"
Miaka smiled, "It's no problem."
"Sa, Miaka, you must be going now." Hotohori said.
Miaka nodded and hugged Sarah, "I haven't know you for a while, but you were nice and cool just the same."
Sarah smiled, "Take care Miaka."
Then in turn Sarah hugged the rest of the Seishi. "Minna, take care of yourself. Be cautious. And please, don't take your friendships for granted. You must be strong for the journey ahead of you. Best of luck."
Arigato, Sarah," Nuriko said. "I don't know if I'll ever see you again, but take care. And be happy.
"Be sure of yourself, no da."
"Be healthy."
"Sarah-san. It was great talking with you. And I'll always remember what you told me."
"Eh~ take care of yourself. And don't take shit from anyone."
"Thank you. I will always live for them."
Sarah smiled, tear shining, "Minna. Ganbatte. Take care!"
Hotohori and Sarah remained until the ship was out of sight. They looked at each other and sighed. "The palace will seem empty from now on," Hotohori commented.
Sarah nodded. They both started to the palace.
2 Author's note: Arigato to Rekka-chan who helped me with the names of the four girls!
3
4 Life and Death
By: Ruri-chan
Sarah looked at herself in the mirror. "What's wrong with me?" She said. "There has to be something wrong with me or this wouldn't be happening. Maybe I'm not pretty enough." But what she saw in the mirror was not what other people saw. Sarah was a fairly pretty girl of 5'5". She had long, soft light brown hair and blue eyes. "Maybe I'm just too annoying." Around her friends she had a sparkling personality and she was always smiling. They never knew what she felt on the inside. Sarah turned and looked at her anime posters. She sighed, "If only…"
She sat on her bed and looked down. She then repeated the question from before. "What's wrong with me? Or else this wouldn't be happening to me." Tears welled up in her eyes and silently fell down her cheeks. She thought about the past few weeks with her friends and always seemed to have noticed a trend. This trend has gotten her to think about herself and why it was happening. 'Why am I the only one that is feeling this hurt? I don't want to hurt anymore. They don't like me and they're just being nice to me. Why don't they just come right out and say it and take me out of my misery.' She continued sitting there for a while longer and came to a realization. 'I'll just take myself out of my misery. If I do then I won't feel this constant pain in my heart.'
She got up and went to the living room. She stood up on the highest place she could find and looked down. Finally, she would be at peace. Sarah turned around with her back facing the room. She leaned back and felt herself falling. Tears still falling from her eyes, she thought, 'Goodbye world.' Then there was a white flash and all became dark.
~~~
Sarah slowly opened her eyes to several faces peering down at her. She blinked a couple times. "Ah~ you're awake," one of them said.
"Where am I?" she asked.
"You are at the Konan palace," a deep voice rumbled.
"I'm not dead?"
They all blinked. "Iie, no da. You're alive, no da."
Sarah started. She knew those "no da"s. She took a good look around her and her eyes widened. Not believing what happened, she lay back down and closed her eyes again. 'This can't be happening. It's just a dream.' And she fell asleep.
~~~
Tasuki looked at the others, "What just happened?"
They all shrugged. "She probably was overwhelmed by something." Mitsukake said. "We should give her more time to sleep." They all nodded and left the room.
Hotohori took one glance back and left.
~~~
The next day, Mitsukake entered Sarah's room. He set down the tea and went over to her. Sarah slowly opened her eyes, "Mitsukake?"
He blinked, "How is it that you know my name?"
"Because I saw you in an anime."
"Eh? Are you saying you are from a different world, like Miaka?"
Sarah nodded. "But I'm not from Miaka's world either." She yawned.
Mitsukake handed her a cup, "Here, drink this."
Sarah drank it and handed it back to him, "Thank you."
"Are you feeling ok?"
Sarah nodded, "A little tired but fine."
Mitsukake nodded. "I will get the maids to get you a bath and some clothes to wear."
Sarah gave a small smile, "That would be nice."
Mitsukake smiled back and got up, "I will see you later." He left the room and told a maid nearby to get her a bath and clothes.
Inside the room Sarah looked down. 'Why am I here? I'm supposed to be dead. I felt myself falling, but how did I end up here?' She continued to sit there and think about it while the bath was being drawn. The ladies helped Sarah into the bath and left her alone. Still in the tub, Sarah thought about her strange situation.
~~~
Mitsukake met the others in the meeting room and nodded, "She's doing much better."
"Great, maybe we'll find out where she came from now." Tamahome said as he got up.
"I don't think you should do that now Tamahome-kun." Mitsukake advised.
He blinked, "Why not?"
"She's taking a bath right now." Tamahome sweatdropped.
"My only question is why of all times did this girl show up?!" Tasuki said.
Miaka smiled, "Don't worry Tasuki. Maybe she's another miko helping us defeat Kutou!" Tasuki stared at Miaka.
"But wouldn't she have landed in their country then, Miaka-san?" Chiriko asked.
Miaka though for a while, "That's right! The girl has to be in that country to be the miko. And she can't be Suzaku's because I'm Suzaku no Miko!" Everyone sweatdropped.
Hotohori gestured to a servant. "When the girl is finished bathing, bring her here." The servant bowed and silently left the room.
"Hotohori-sama?" Nuriko asked.
"She will meet us here and explain certain things for us. This is a critical time. Seiryuu has ruined the ceremony in summoning Suzaku and we must obtain the Shinzaho. We must know why she's here." Everyone nodded.
~~~
The maids finished clothing Sarah and she looked in the mirror. She was wearing a simple yet beautiful light, flowing blue dress and a white sash. Her hair was done low and a flower comb was set in her hair. The maids then ushered her out. "Where are you taking me?"
"The emperor wishes to see you," one of the said.
"Oh." Carefully, Sarah followed the maids, stumbling, wondering why he wanted to see her. She entered the room and everyone turned to look at her. She looked down.
"Please sit," she heard Hotohori say. She sat down. "What is your name?"
"Sarah."
"Why are you here?"
She shrugged, "I don't know. I was in the middle of something and I just ended up here."
Tasuki slammed the table, "Ya gotta be kidding me!"
She looked at him, "No, I'm not, Tasuki."
He blinked and the glared at her, "How the hell do ya know my name?"
"Because where I'm from this is an anime. I watch you all the time."
Miaka's eyes got big, "We're an anime where you're from? Sugoi!"
"So you're saying you're from a different world, no da?" Sarah nodded. "Da~"
"This is so weird," Nuriko said.
Ever since Tasuki interrupted him, Hotohori had his eyes closed. And when Nuriko finished speaking, he opened his eyes. "It may be, but right now all of you have a task." They all nodded. "You must leave immediately. This ship is almost ready and will leave in two days." He then turned to Sarah, "You may stay here for the time being Sarah."
Sarah bowed her head, "Thank you."
Everyone stood and left. Except for Hotohori, Nuriko and Sarah.
Nuriko smiled at Sarah, "That dress suits you very well, Sarah-san."
Sarah smiled, "Thanks, but you don't have to call me 'Sarah-san.' Just 'Sarah' will do."
Nuriko smiled, "Okay then. C'mon, I'll show you around before I leave."
"Thanks." And the two of them went off leaving Hotohori behind.
'There's something about that girl.' He thought.
Just then Chichiri appeared next to him, "Hotohori-sama, there's some urgent things they need you to take care of, no da."
"Thank you, Chichiri." Hotohori turned and followed him.
~~~
Sarah and Nuriko were walking in the garden after Nuriko had showed Sarah around the palace. "This is my favorite spot," he said.
"I can see why," Sarah commented, looking around. "It's so peaceful and beautiful here. No one can feel actual sadness here."
Nuriko gave a sidelong glance at Sarah. "Yeah." They sat on a bench under a tree and looked up. "The stars are bright tonight."
"Hey," Sarah said suddenly, "Aren't you scared about the journey?"
Nuriko looked at her and paused before saying anything. "I guess you can say that. I don't know what will happen to me. But I know that this is what I was destined for and I must fulfill my role as Suzaku Seishi."
Sarah nodded and looked up at the sky, "Everyone loves you so much. You're very lucky."
Nuriko was slightly taken aback by the comment. He wasn't expecting her to say something like that. From what he saw, she was a sweet girl. He felt, though, that there was some kind of longingness in her. Shaking the thought out of his mind he looked over at Sarah and found that she had fallen asleep leaning on him. He gave a small laugh, picked her up and started for her room. When he got to her room, he saw that Mitsukake was outside the door and he turned when he heard Nuriko coming.
"She's asleep?" he asked.
Nuriko nodded. "Hai. I'm just taking her inside to bed."
Mitsukake nodded, "I will help you." He opened the door for Nuriko.
"Arigato." Nuriko entered and laid Sarah on the bed.
Inside, after Nuriko pulled the covers over Sarah, he turned to Mitsukake. "Will she be fine?"
Mitsukake nodded. "She just needs rest, but other than that she's fine."
Nuriko looked down at Sarah, "I don't know, but there's something about her. Something really troublesome."
Mitsukake placed a hand on her forehead, "I am only a doctor. I heal wounds and illnesses. Unfortunately, I cannot look into the minds of my patients. But I agree with you Nuriko. There is something troubling her. For right now, though, we should let her be."
Nuriko nodded and they both left.
~~~
The next day, Sarah woke up to birds chirping and the sun shining. First she wondered how she got in her bed and remembered that Nuriko was with her. 'He must have carried me here.' There was a knock on her door. "Come in." She called.
The door slid open and Mitsukake entered. "Ohayo. How are you feeling today?"
Sarah smiled, "Much better, thank you." She looked at the tray that he brought. "What's that?"
"You're breakfast." He set it on the table while she got up and put on a robe. "You seem to be doing fine, but I'll check up on you from time to time today, just in case."
Sarah nodded, "Ok."
Mitsukake turned to leave. "I will be back. Tasuki asked me if I could do something with his hangover."
Sarah raised an eyebrow. "Tasuki ASKED you something? With a hangover?"
Mitsukake chuckled, "You're right." With that he left.
Sarah smiled and looked at her food. 'He's so sweet. But I still don't know how I ended up here.' She took the chopsticks and started eating. 'I guess I shouldn't get too close to everyone or I'll feel it again.' A knock on the door shook her out of her thoughts. "Come in." She called.
The door opened again and Hotohori, Nuriko, and Chichiri entered. She got up, but Hotohori gestured her to sit back down. "There's no need." He said, "We just came to see how you were."
Sarah smiled, "I'm fine, thank you."
Hotohori pointed to Chichiri, "Chichiri just had a question to ask you."
Sarah looked at the smiling monk. "Da. Sorry to put you on the spot, no da," Chichiri began. "But since you were from another world and knew all about us. I was wondering if you knew the future of this world, no da." Sarah looked down and nodded. "Do you think you can tell us something, no da?"
Sarah kept looking down for them not to see her tears. 'Is this why they're so kind to me? They want to pump information from me? Should I tell them? For them to accept me, I should. But I don't know if it should be known to them. I do want all of them to live in the end. Instead of just Chichiri, Tasuki, and Miaka.'
Nuriko looked worriedly at Sarah. The whole time he watched her as Chichiri was asking her. "Sarah? Daijoubu?"
Sarah nodded. "I… I just don't know if I'm to tell you or not."
Chichiri nodded. "That makes sense, no da. I think I'll ask Taiitsukun about that."
Sarah looked up at Chichiri a little surprised. 'So it's not just because I have the information. He was curious, but didn't press me to do anything or give anything away.' Sarah nodded. "That sounds like a plan."
Chichiri nodded and turned to Hotohori, "I'll be back, no da." With that he disappeared.
Hotohori and Nuriko turned back to Sarah. She looked at them. Then, Hotohori spoke up. "We will leave you alone now, so that you may get ready. The maids have brought several dresses for you to wear. They are in the closet." Sarah nodded as Nuriko and Hotohori left.
She stood up and went to a closet where Hotohori said her clothes were and opened it. Inside, were a variety of dresses in various colors and shades. They were all beautiful. She chose a pale blue dress with a dark blue sash. When the four maids attending Sarah knocked and entered the room, Sarah was still struggling to put on the sash. One of the maids giggled and Sarah looked up and blushed.
"Let us help you, Sarah-sama." One of the maids said.
Sarah smiled, "Thanks."
With the help of the maids, Sarah was properly dressed and she was now practicing how to walk without tipping over. Several minutes later, Sarah was walking across the room but half way she fell. The maids giggled and Sarah blushed. "This is harder than it looks."
The maid closest to her helped Sarah up. "You get used to it. And besides, you are already doing very well."
"Thanks," Sarah said. Then she paused. 'What am I doing? I can't get that close to them. But they are a sweet bunch of girls.'
Another maid placed a hand on Sarah's shoulder. "Sarah-sama? Daijoubu desuka?"
Sarah nodded smiled, "Hai. By the way, are you girls going to always attend to me?" The four nodded. "Then what are your names? I don't just want to call you guys 'You' or 'You there'."
The girls blinked and blushed. "No one has ever asked us that before." One of the girls said.
"Well, I'm no one, so you can tell me." Sara said, practicing again.
The four girls looked at each other and after a moment's pause the smallest girl stepped forward. "My name is Kasumi." Then she turned to the others and gave them a look.
The tallest girl stepped forward, "My name is Kei."
The girl with brown hair stepped forward and smiled, "My name is Jennilee."
The last girl had light brown eyes, "And I am Kozue."
Sarah smiled each in turn, "Nice to meet you! Now... if only I can walk!"
The four girls giggled and continued helping Sarah.
~~~
He was reading voraciously. With the upcoming journey he knew that there wouldn't be anytime to study as much and read as much as he liked. Chiriko sighed. There was so much to learn, all he could do was take in as much as he could. The door opened quietly and he looked to see who it was.
"Sarah-san?" he asked.
Sarah nodded, "Hai." She went over to him and sat next to him. "What are you doing? Studying?"
Chiriko nodded. "I love to study. Always helped calm me a little."
"That's nice." She peered at the scroll he was reading. "So what are you studying now?"
"Nothing much really. I just picked up a scroll. It's about science."
"Oh~. Sounds interesting. You're so lucky to be so smart. I wish I were that smart. Then my classes wouldn't be so hard and difficult."
Chiriko gripped the scroll. "Ne, Sarah-san? May I confide in you?"
Sarah blinked and nodded. "Hai, you can talk to me."
"You know a lot about us, ne? Like what our powers are and such?" Sarah nodded. "Well, sometimes I wish that my power was something other than intelligence."
"Why's that Chiriko? It's really a great power."
"It doesn't even last long. Besides, I'll be a burden to everyone because I'm so weak. If I was stronger like Tasuki-san or Nuriko-san. I'm sure I can be of much more use."
"Chiriko, look at me." Sarah looked into his wavering eyes, "You are so important. Not only are a Seishi but also you're their friend. I don't think I should tell you much about the future but let me tell you this much. You're not a burden and you'll be of much help to the others."
"Demo..."
Sarah interrupted, "No 'but's Chiriko. You're a special and talented boy." Then she winked, "Besides, you gotta keep the balance of intelligence. Too many dummies and you all might not survive."
Chiriko gave a small laugh. The door opened again and a guard bowed.
"Sumimasen, demo... the emperor would like to have a word with both of you."
Chiriko and Sarah looked at each other. "Well, we might as see what he wants." Sarah said, getting up. Chiriko nodded and followed her out.
~~~
The two arrived in the meeting room. When they entered, they found that the rest were already there and the looked up to the see the two of them enter.
"Please have a seat," Hotohori said.
Chiriko and Sarah gave a small bow and sat down.
"Chichiri has just returned from speaking with Taiitsukun and he said that Sarah should not reveal what is about to happen."
Everyone looked at Chichiri and the monk nodded, "Hai, no da. Taiitsukun said that the reason the things are happening is because it's supposed to happen, no da. Good or bad, reveal nothing, no da."
Sarah nodded. "Alright then. I won't reveal anything."
Hotohori nodded, "Now that is done with, let's go down to the docks and help prepare the ship, it almost ready for departure for tomorrow."
~~~
At the docks, Sarah was busy talking with the Seishi and looking out to the sea. Later, she turned to see Tamahome and Miaka leave. Then she remembered what was going to happen to his family. But she knew that she shouldn't reveal anything. She looked around and spotted Chichiri fishing and she went over to him.
Carefully, she sat down next to him, "Ne, Chichiri? May I ask you a question?"
"Hai, no da."
"About not telling anything... What if it doesn't make a lot of difference, I still can't tell?"
Chichiri looked at her, "I don't think so, no da. If you think about it, it may affect the future ahead, no da. Although it doesn't seem much of a change right now, there may be major changes later on in the future, no da."
Sarah looked out at the ship, "That makes sense. But there are certain things that I wish I could reveal, but I totally understand." She stood up. "Arigato. I guess I needed someone to make sure I didn't make a stupid mistake and I didn't jump into something."
"That is sometimes the best, no da."
Sarah started leaving, "Matta ne!"
~~~
The next day, Sarah stood with Hotohori, as the rest were getting ready to leave. She saw Tamahome walk towards her and had a vague idea what he was going to ask.
"Can I talk to you?" He asked quietly.
"Hai." Sarah nodded and went off to the side with Tamahome.
"You knew didn't you?"
Sarah blinked and looked down. "Gomen nasai."
"Why didn't tell me?" He said not looking at her.
Tears welled up in Sarah's eyes, "Gomen! But you were there when Chichiri said that I couldn't say anything. Not anything. I wanted tell you. They were so young and innocent. I didn't want it to repeat."
Tamahome sighed, "I understand. I'm sorry. I know you couldn't say anything about our future, but it still hurts the same. I couldn't be there to save them and protect them like I was supposed to. And I guess it made me even more mad that there was someone who knew and there was a way to stop the Seiryuu Seishi from killing them."
Sarah wiped her tears away. "It's all right. Just, be careful on your journey and always live for them. You're a special guy and everyone loves you and cares for you. Don't for get that."
Tamahome looked at her and they both smiled. Together they went back to where everyone else was.
Miaka walked up to them and placed her hands on her hips, "So where were you two?"
Sarah and Tamahome sweatdropped. "We weren't doing anything Miaka. I just had to ask her something really important. That's all."
Miaka looked at Sarah and Sarah nodded, "Honto da yo."
Tasuki walked up and laughed, "I'm sure. Obake-chan was probably getting it on with her to enjoy freedom one last time!"
Everyone facefaulted and Nuriko went behind him and smacked him, sending Tasuki to a nearby tree.
"Ah~! Sarah-san? Could you take a picture of all of us together?"
"Sure," Sarah said.
Sarah waited until everyone was gathered and they posed. "Make sure to take eight, Sarah-san!" Miaka called out.
Sarah nodded and focused the camera. "Minna! Smile!" Eight shots later, each Seishi was holding a picture and looking at it.
Miaka then went up to Sarah, "Ne, why don't you take a picture with everyone? So that when you go back, you have something to remember them by?"
Sarah smiled and the slightest glimmer was seen, "That would be great. But if it's okay with you, can I take them individually with everyone instead of a group? That way it feels more special."
Miaka gave an even bigger smile, "Good idea! Hai! I have plenty of film!" So together they went off to each of the Seishi.
The first person they found was Nuriko. Sarah and Nuriko both semi- faced each other, linked arms and winked at the camera. The next person they found was a reluctant Tasuki. But finally got him to pose. They were both mock glaring at each other but anyone could see the laughter in their eyes. Not to mention that they were both smirking. The picture of her and Tamahome was more normal (Miaka wouldn't have it any other way). They stood next to each other and smiled. Sarah was able to coax Mitsukake to kneel on one knee and then have her sit on his knee and hug him. "I don't mind," she said. "Besides, you were the one who took care of me this whole time!" The picture of her and Chiriko was the cutest. Sarah's face was at level with Chiriko's and the camera came more up close. They were smiling and hugging each other. The picture with her and Chichiri was the most interesting. Sarah was sitting cross-legged, arms stretched out and floating with Chichiri standing behind her, always smiling.
The two girls went to Hotohori. "I want the picture with him to look regal," Sarah told Miaka. They went up to him and Sarah smiled, "Ne, Hotohori? Would you mind taking a picture with me?"
Hotohori shook his head, "No, I do not mind."
Sarah smiled, "Wai!" She pulled Hotohori to a spot where the palace could be seen. "Stand there and look regal Hotohori."
"Don't I always?"
Sarah and Miaka sweatdropped. "Hai hai."
After Hotohori was posed, Sarah stood slightly in front of him and folded her hands in her sleeves just as Hotohori was doing. Then she looked at the camera serenely.
"Smile!" Miaka said. She took the picture and handed it to Sarah.
"Arigato, Miaka!"
Miaka smiled, "It's no problem."
"Sa, Miaka, you must be going now." Hotohori said.
Miaka nodded and hugged Sarah, "I haven't know you for a while, but you were nice and cool just the same."
Sarah smiled, "Take care Miaka."
Then in turn Sarah hugged the rest of the Seishi. "Minna, take care of yourself. Be cautious. And please, don't take your friendships for granted. You must be strong for the journey ahead of you. Best of luck."
Arigato, Sarah," Nuriko said. "I don't know if I'll ever see you again, but take care. And be happy.
"Be sure of yourself, no da."
"Be healthy."
"Sarah-san. It was great talking with you. And I'll always remember what you told me."
"Eh~ take care of yourself. And don't take shit from anyone."
"Thank you. I will always live for them."
Sarah smiled, tear shining, "Minna. Ganbatte. Take care!"
Hotohori and Sarah remained until the ship was out of sight. They looked at each other and sighed. "The palace will seem empty from now on," Hotohori commented.
Sarah nodded. They both started to the palace.