They all overslept. It was only when the maid knocked that
they awoke. They bolted down their lunch and prepared to leave.
Marron protested to his new red shirt but in the end, put it on,
along with the black vest. Chocolate said he looked gorgeous. They
headed out, slowly for Marron's sake, and by evening, Marron could
walk unaided and Guava's arms were practically healed. They stopped
for the night and everyone fell asleep, except Guava and Milphey.
They crept off into the forest.
"I told you to be careful." Milphey scolded.
"I am." Guava said.
"Oh yeah? What was that I saw this morning then?"
"I'm just as confused as you are. I didn't think that would have
happened."
"You never think. You just act on your instincts, which is all and
fine for battle but not for this. You're older than I am, you should
know better."
Guava nodded.
"I'll try harder." he said.
"Good." Milphey said, crossing his arms and frowning.
"I'm sorry." Guava said.
"You should be." Milphey said grumpily.
"Forgive me?" Guava said, kissing Milphey's ear.
"Perhaps." Milphey said.
Guava kissed his way down Milphey's neck.
"Perhaps?" Guava echoed, slipping off Milphey's shirt at the shoulder
and kissing there.
Milphey spun around, threw his arms around Guava's neck, and kissed
him soundly.
"Maybe."
Tira and Chocolate awoke and started the morning fire.
Milphey sat up and stretched and the girls stared at his bare arms
and loose hair. He stared at them in surprise as well. Guava sat up
and handed Milphey his shirt.
"You brought me back." Milphey observed as he pulled on his shirt.
Tira blushed as she realised what Milphey was talking about.
"Well, I didn't want any bears eating you up." Guava replied with a
lazy grin.
"Why thank you." Milphey said, belting his purple wrap.
"Good morning Marron!" Milphey said cheerfully as Marron sat up.
Gateau awoke with a start. Carrot grumbled something but slept on.
"How's your foot feeling?" Milphey asked, putting his hair up in his
ponytail.
"Fine." Marron replied.
"Well, let's go then." Milphey said cheerfully, bounding up and
waking Carrot.
Doughnut was a strange town. It looked normal enough, but it
felt weird. The hunters tried very hard not to let their discomfort
show.
"Welcome strangers." a man said, appearing in front of them suddenly
in the dusky evening.
"Hello." Tira said.
"I'm the mayor of Doughnut. How can I help you?" the man asked.
"We're just passing by." Chocolate said.
"Well, since you aren't sorcerers, we can let you pass by." the mayor
replied.
"Sorcerers?" Carrot said, pretending to be confused.
"Yes. We hate sorcerers. They are evil beings who want to enslave all
people and therefore must be destroyed." the mayor said.
"How?" Tira asked.
"The priest kills them. His power comes from the One." the mayor
replied.
"Could we meet the priest?" Marron asked.
"Of course. The priest is always willing to meet people. Wait here,
I'll go get him."
The mayor ran off.
"Do you think this priest is the sorcerer?" Chocolate said.
Marron nodded.
"It seems likely."
The mayor returned with the priest.
"Hey sorcerer! We're here to stop you!" Carrot said.
"Idiot." Gateau said.
"What?! Blasphemy! I call upon the power of the One to remove you."
the priest said, sending a blast of magic at the hunters. They all
dodged the first blast but Carrot got hit by the second. The
villagers came running as Carrot began to change. Marron quickly hit
his brother with a ward.
"See, sorcerers." the priest howled as the villagers mobbed the
hunters and tied them up.
"Take the two sorcerers away and lock their companions up." the
priest yelled. "We shall burn these sorcerers now!"
They were dragged off by the villagers.
"We're not sorcerers!" Gateau snarled as he was weighed down by
numerous villagers and chained.
The others were chained as well.
"Come on, I don't want to miss the burning." one villager said.
They locked the hunters up and went off. Everyone tired to loosen
their bonds. Gateau strained, muscles bulging.
"They're going to burn Carrot." Milphey said.
"Tira." Chocolate said.
"Sister." Tira replied, glasses flashing.
They changed and Chocolate broke free. She quickly untied everyone
else. They ran out and looked around for the Glaces brothers. They
heard a shout of joy and ran towards it. There they found the
villagers surrounding a fire.
"Carrot!" Tira said in horror.
The sisters ran towards the crowd. Milphey tossed Guava a knife, who
sprinted after the sisters. Gateau and Milphey followed. The sisters
carved a path towards the fire, scattering the villagers. Guava
rushed in and ran into the fire until he reached Marron and Carrot.
Guava sliced through the ropes and covered their faces with his
shirt. He hefted the brothers and ran through the fire.
"Get the sorcerers!" the priest yelled.
"Get them out of here, we'll go for the sorcerer." Chocolate ordered.
Guava nodded and hauled the brothers off. Some villagers came after
them with swords and spears. Guava ran, carrying the leg-tied
brothers with ease. He ran until they reached the waterfall. They
heard the villagers behind them. Without hesitation, Guava jumped
into the water.
Marron watched Guava's weary face as he tried to recuperate
from his ordeal. It had taken most of Guava's energy to use his talents
to keep Marron and Carrot mostly dry and breathing while they were in
the water. And then more to get them all upstream. Guava lay against
a tree, a fine sheen of sweat on his face. Carrot had gone scouting
to see if the villagers had followed them. Marron sat next to Guava
and watched him breathe. Guava's face was paler than Marron's skin,
which was a cause for concern. Using a sleeve, Marron wiped the sweat
from Guava's face. Guava opened his eyes and smiled weakly at Marron.
"Thank you." he whispered.
"Thank you." Marron replied. "You saved us from being burned."
"Just an everyday job." Guava replied with a chuckle, which turned
into a cough.
Marron stroked Guava's back, concerned. Guava recovered.
"Are you going to be alright?" Marron asked in worry.
"I'll be fine. I just need some time to rest." Guava replied.
Marron looked uncertain. Guava smiled.
"Turn those gorgeous eyes on someone whom you really care about." he
teased.
"I do care about you." Marron said softly.
Guava looked at Marron, who was very serious.
"Hey, knock it off there, Marron, you're scaring me." Guava said,
unnerved by the intensity of Marron's gaze.
Marron continued to stare at Guava, who was becoming rather agitated.
Especially after Marron started stroking Guava's face softly.
"Marron?" Guava whispered. "Please don't scare me like this. I don't
think I can handle the shock."
Marron leaned closer to Guava, so that he could feel the shorter
man's breath on his face.
"I don't think they're on to us." Carrot said as he came crashing
through the bush.
Marron jerked away from Guava as if stung and blinked at Carrot.
Guava managed a weak laugh.
"If they weren't, they are now." he whispered.
Marron grinned weakly at that.
"Do you need something to eat?" Carrot asked.
"That would probably help." Guava observed.
"Will you be okay here by yourself?" Carrot asked.
"Oh sure. The lady and I will be fine." Guava replied, closing his
eyes and smiling sickly.
Marron and Carrot exchanged worried glances.
"Maybe you should stay with him." Carrot suggested.
"Are you sure you'll be able to find food by yourself?" Marron asked.
"Marron, I think I'm old enough to find food by myself. I'm not three
you know." Carrot huffed.
"Could've fooled me." Guava whispered.
"Hey!" Carrot complained.
Guava grinned slightly before his face became a mask of weariness.
Carrot hustled off to look for food. Marron then noticed the pain in
Guava's face.
"Are you hurt?" Marron asked, concerned.
"I'm sitting on a sharp rock." Guava replied with a grimace.
"Oh."
Marron pondered this over. Guava was a lot bigger than he was.
Finally Marron gently tried to lift up half of Guava's body. However,
Guava was so weak that he slumped right over to the ground. Marron
quickly moved the rock and helped Guava back up.
"Are you alright?" Marron asked.
"Much better now." Guava replied. "But you almost knocked over the
lady."
"Lady?" Marron was confused. "Guava, you have to gather your strength
up."
Guava mumbled something. Marron looked at him worriedly. Was he
delirious?
"Guava?" Marron said, rubbing Guava's arm slightly.
"I'm fine." Guava replied automatically. "Just fine and dandy."
He slumped over and ended up resting most of his weight on Marron.
"Just need to rest." Guava mumbled.
Marron shifted to a more comfortable position and let Guava rest
against him. Marron began running his hands through Guava's hair.
"Feels nice." Guava said quietly.
Marron continued to stroke Guava's hair as Guava's breathing became
more relaxed and less desperate. Then Carrot came back with some
food. The brothers carefully fed Guava until he told them to stop.
"I'm getting worried about the others." Carrot said. "It's almost
dawn and they haven't come back yet."
"We can't leave Guava here by himself and it's too dangerous for only
one of us to go." Marron protested.
"Are you kidding? I'm the king of sneak." Carrot boasted.
"I should go brother." Marron said.
"No. If something happens to Guava while you're gone, I won't know
what to do." Carrot replied.
"But-"
"Don't worry Marron. I promise I won't even let a girl distract me."
Carrot replied.
"Not even a beautiful one?" Marron said doubtfully.
"Not even a beautiful one." Carrot promised.
"Well, okay then." Marron said reluctantly.
"Don't worry about me Marron." Carrot assured. "I'll be alright."
He grinned reassuringly and went off. Guava stirred and Marron turned
his attention to him.
"Are you alright?" Marron asked.
"I need you to do something for me." Guava said.
"Anything." Marron replied.
"Just cut my arm and the tree I'm leaning against and press the cuts
together." Guava instructed.
Marron looked concerned.
"Are you sure?" he asked.
"Yes." Guava said firmly.
Marron nodded and picked up the knife. He cut the tree first and then
carefully cut Guava's arm. He then pressed the two wounds together.
Guava gasped.
"Guava?" Marron said, instantly concerned.
"I'm fine." Guava managed. "Strong lady." he added with a weak smile.
Marron smiled uncomprehendingly. He was still puzzling over the
colour of Guava's blood. It was brown. He had noticed it earlier,
when he had been healing Guava's bomb wounds, but had assumed that it
was discoloured because of the chemicals in the bombs. Now he
realised that it was the actual colour of Guava's blood. Marron
noticed that Guava was getting stronger. After a bit, Guava sat up by
himself and removed his arm. Marron watched in surprise as the tree
healed itself. Guava bandaged his wound and smiled at Marron.
"Much better now." Guava said.
"How?" Marron asked.
"I am only slightly human Marron. Most of me can be cured by the
natural things around me."
"Oh."
Guava smiled at Marron, who smiled back tentatively. Guava leaned
against the tree.
"Still a bit weak?" Marron asked.
Guava nodded. Marron gave him some more food.
"Don't tell anyone what just happened please." Guava said. "The
ladies like their privacy."
"I won't." Marron promised. "Do you mean that the lady you were
referring to is the tree?"
Guava nodded.
"But why did you let me know?" Marron asked.
"Because I can trust you." Guava replied.
Marron smiled at this.
"Thank you." he said.
Then, to both their surprise, Marron leaned over and gave Guava a
quick kiss on the cheek. Guava stared and Marron blushed.
"Marron? What is it?" Guava asked gently. "You've been acting very
differently since the river."
Marron's blush deepened.
"I've been doing a lot of thinking." Marron said slowly. "While you
were resting."
Guava just sat there and waited patiently for Marron to continue.
"And I've come to a conclusion." Marron said finally.
He looked Guava straight in the eye.
"Guava, I love you." Marron said firmly.
Guava started. He stared back at Marron, mouth opening wordlessly.
"Marron, I-I..." Guava trailed off.
He took Marron's hands in his.
"Are you sure Marron?" Guava asked desperately. "Are you absolutely
sure? This isn't just puppy love or adoration? You honestly love
me?"
Marron nodded firmly.
"I do." he said. "I'm sure of it."
Guava smiled gently.
"I'm so glad Marron." he said. "Because I love you too."
Marron was only slightly startled.
"You do?" he said hopefully.
"Yes. But I was afraid you didn't and I couldn't do that to you."
Guava said. "I couldn't let you know that I loved you if you didn't
feel the same way. That would have strained everything."
Marron smiled. Guava leaned over and gave him a gentle kiss on the
lips. Marron closed his eyes and returned the kiss. Guava broke the
kiss and looked into Marron's eyes. Marron stared back
unhesitatingly. He moved so that he was closer to Guava and then
leaned in for another kiss. Guava obliged and Marron put his hands on
Guava's chest as Guava hugged him close, shifting Marron into his
lap. Marron eagerly kissed Guava, revealing in the warmth. They
looked at each other. Marron played with the buttons of Guava's
shirt. Guava chuckled.
"My, aren't we eager." he teased.
Marron blushed slightly but answered with another soft kiss. Guava
gave him a breathtaking kiss in response.
"Marron!" came Carrot's incredulous voice.
Marron and Guava hastily got up. Marron looked guilty. Everyone was
there. Guava immediately dragged Carrot over to the side as fast as
he could and whispered something to him. Carrot looked surprised,
then thoughtful, and finally understanding. He nodded. Marron was red
faced and couldn't meet anyone's eyes. Carrot went over to his
brother and put an arm around his shoulders.
"Congratulations Marron." Carrot said with a smile.
Marron looked at his brother incredulously. Carrot smiled
reassuringly.
"So, what happened?" Guava asked the others.
"We killed the sorcerer and the villagers returned to normal." Gateau
said with a casual shrug.
"They've invited us to stay for a few days." Chocolate said.
"Yes. Let's stay." Carrot said. "I think I'd like to...talk with the
mayor more."
Gateau snorted as Chocolate and Tira glared at Carrot. He laughed and
ran off. The girls gave chase. After a glare at Guava, Milphey
followed Gateau and the others. Guava gave Marron a gentle kiss and
took his hand.
"Come on." he said.
Marron and Guava followed the others back towards Doughnut.
They were given three rooms at the inn for the night. Tira,
Chocolate, and Carrot shared a room and Gateau and Milphey shared
another, leaving Guava and Marron by themselves. Marron was hesitant
at the thought of being alone with Guava in such an intimate place
but Guava put all Marron's fears at ease by wishing him a good night
and going to sleep. Marron, however, wanted to be near Guava. Torn,
Marron stood in the middle of the room and staring blankly around
him. Suddenly Guava sat up.
"Marron." he said, stretching out his hand.
Marron went over to him and was surprised as Guava lifted him off his
feet and onto the bed. Guava kissed Marron deeply before snuggling
against him and pulling the covers over them. Marron leaned into the
warmth of Guava's body and closed his eyes.
They set out for Big Mama's city the next day. Tira had
dropped back to where Marron and Guava were walking to give Marron a
kiss on the cheek and words of encouragement, which made Marron
smile. Chocolate did more or less the same thing, being slightly
lewder in her choice of words. The only ones who weren't supportive
were Gateau and Milphey. Gateau was a little upset but he got over
it. He was just uncomfortable about saying anything to Marron.
Milphey was still mad at Guava. Marron could tell by all the glares
that Milphey kept giving Guava. They stopped for the night and
prepared their meal. Marron sat down and handed Guava some food. They
ate in silence, listening to Tira and Chocolate pick on Carrot.
Marron was still hesitant about touching simply because he was still
unused to it. But he did lean against Guava as they ate. As soon as
they had finished eating, Guava hefted Marron onto his lap. Marron
squirmed in protest and tried to get off.
"Don't worry Marron. Everyone knows." Guava whispered, kissing
Marron's ear.
"But-" Marron began protesting, and then gasped as Guava nibbled on
his ear.
"Guava." Marron protested breathlessly.
Guava grinned and grabbed Marron's hand. Gently entwining their
fingers, Guava kissed the hand.
"We're in public." Marron tried again.
"Do you not like this?" Guava asked.
"I like it." Marron replied.
"Good." Guava continued to kiss Marron's hand.
"But we're around people." Marron said.
Guava gazed at Marron with solemn eyes. Marron felt himself melting
under the gaze.
"I'm sorry." Guava said. "I just want to express my love for you."
Marron smiled.
"I appreciate it." he said. "It's just...I'm not comfortable with
other people around."
"Oh, I could make you forget that there's anyone else here." Guava
said.
Marron blushed at the thought.
"Um, no please." he said.
Guava chuckled and kissed Marron deeply. Marron returned the kiss.
"Hey, we're trying to sleep here." Carrot grumbled jokingly.
Marron blushed and broke away from Guava. Suddenly, Guava got up,
cradling Marron.
"If we're bothering you, then we'll go elsewhere." Guava said.
Marron blushed furiously as Guava carried him away from the campfire.
The sisters gaped after them. Milphey looked indifferent. Gateau
ignored it all and Carrot muttered about not having someone to cuddle
with at night, quietly so that Chocolate wouldn't hear him of course.
Guava carried Marron a ways away from the campfire and then
settled down against a tree.
"Alone at last." Guava joked suggestively.
Marron blushed.
"I-I-" he began.
"Well, you did say that you weren't comfortable with people around."
Guava reminded as he nibbled on Marron's neck.
Marron gasped and then moaned as Guava's lips met his. Marron froze
slightly as Guava began undoing Marron's buttons. Guava sensed this
and stopped. He looked at Marron.
"We'll only go as far as you're comfortable with." Guava said. "I
promise."
Marron nodded slightly as Guava kissed him again.
Tira slowly walked up to the sleeping couple and almost
"aww-ed" at how cute they looked. Guava lay on the ground and Marron
was on top of him, head on chest. Both had their arms around each
other. Tira smiled at the picture. Guava opened his eyes and winked
at Tira. She stifled a giggle at the fact that he was awake and
letting Marron sleep. Guava grinned and waggled his eyebrows at Tira.
She tried hard not to laugh as Guava gently teased Marron awake by
tickling him with his own hair. Marron wrinkled his nose and batted
at the annoyance. Guava took Marron's wandering hand and began
kissing it. Marron frowned in puzzlement as he slowly woke up. The
first thing he noticed was that he was lying on someone. The second
thing he noticed was that his hand was being kissed. Then he saw Tira
and frowned. He slowly sat up, wincing as some hair was pulled free
from the body it was under. He propped himself up to see Guava
kissing his hand.
"Good morning." Guava said.
"Good morning." Marron replied.
Guava smiled and pulled Marron down for a deep kiss. Tira blushed
slightly but found that she was happy for Marron and that stopped her
blushing. Marron reluctantly ended the kiss as his awareness of Tira
wouldn't let him indulge himself. He sat up, on top of Guava, and
slowly got up.
"What's going on?" he asked.
"Breakfast." she replied.
Marron's eyes widened.
"What time is it?" he asked.
"Late." she replied. "You slept in."
He looked faintly horrified.
"I slept in?" he repeated in disbelief.
"Busy night?" Tira teased gently with a blush.
Marron blushed as well.
"No, nothing happened." he said.
"It's true." Guava supported. "Nothing happened. We talked and then
slept. That's all."
He got up as well and shook the leaves out of his hair. Taking
Marron's hand, and then Tira's, Guava lead them back to the group.
"Ooh, both at once?" Carrot joked as he saw them.
"Of course." Guava said haughtily as Marron and Tira blushed and
glared at Carrot.
Carrot laughed while Chocolate shook her head. They ate their
breakfast and set off for the next town. Daughter stopped them
abruptly.
"Big Mama wants you to return to her." Daughter said suddenly without
her usual preamble.
She vanished as quickly as she had come. The Hunters looked at each
other in confusion.
"I've got to go then." Milphey said before leaving as well.
"What about you Guava?" Chocolate asked. "Aren't you returning to
Silken?"
Marron tensed slightly at the though. Guava slung a comforting arm
around Marron's shoulders as they walked.
"No. It was time for me to leave them." Guava said. "I had been
delaying the inevitable."
Marron relaxed and the other Hunters accepted Guava's story. They
continued walking. Guava leaned over and placed a kiss on Marron's
ear.
"I'm not leaving you now that I've got you." Guava whispered.
Marron smiled slightly at that. Feeling bold, and because they were
behind everyone, he turned and kissed Guava quickly.
"Good. Because I wouldn't have let you leave." Marron whispered back.
Guava straightened and arched an amused eyebrow at Marron.
The hunters reached the Stellar Church in record time. No
mishaps, no evil sorcerers on the way. Big Mama was waiting for them
in the main hall. She smiled as they entered the room.
"Welcome back." she said as Daughter grinned.
"Big Mama." Tira said with an answering smile.
Guava went over and bowed at Big Mama's feet. He then rose and they
kissed each other's cheeks.
"My lady." Guava said.
"Guava." Big Mama replied. "I heard that you did something you should
not have."
Guava ducked his head.
"I know that I should not have done what I did. But I am not sorry
for what happened. It was to be." he said.
Big Mama looked into Guava's eyes, and then smiled.
"So be it then." she agreed.
"Thank you." Guava said.
He returned to Marron's side.
"I have a new assignment for all of you." Big Mama said. "But you'll
have to split up for it. Gateau and Chocolate, you are to go to Candy
and capture the sorcerer there and bring her back. Carrot and Tira,
you go to Cashew and capture and bring back the sorcerer there.
Marron, you are going to the Makai to capture a youko and bring it
back here."
"By himself?" Carrot said warily.
"No, Guava will be going with you." Big Mama informed.
The Hunters nodded.
"We are not going to kill these sorcerers." Big Mama said clearly.
"We need them for a purpose. Good luck."
The Hunters split up and headed out. Guava and Marron looked at each
other and then at Big Mama.
"Are you happy Marron?" she asked. "With Guava?"
Marron nodded solemnly.
"I'm glad then." she said.
Marron matched her smile briefly.
"Are you ready to go?" Big Mama asked.
They nodded.
"Hold on." she said.
Guava drew Marron close as Big Mama worked her magic and faded from
their sight.
The End
they awoke. They bolted down their lunch and prepared to leave.
Marron protested to his new red shirt but in the end, put it on,
along with the black vest. Chocolate said he looked gorgeous. They
headed out, slowly for Marron's sake, and by evening, Marron could
walk unaided and Guava's arms were practically healed. They stopped
for the night and everyone fell asleep, except Guava and Milphey.
They crept off into the forest.
"I told you to be careful." Milphey scolded.
"I am." Guava said.
"Oh yeah? What was that I saw this morning then?"
"I'm just as confused as you are. I didn't think that would have
happened."
"You never think. You just act on your instincts, which is all and
fine for battle but not for this. You're older than I am, you should
know better."
Guava nodded.
"I'll try harder." he said.
"Good." Milphey said, crossing his arms and frowning.
"I'm sorry." Guava said.
"You should be." Milphey said grumpily.
"Forgive me?" Guava said, kissing Milphey's ear.
"Perhaps." Milphey said.
Guava kissed his way down Milphey's neck.
"Perhaps?" Guava echoed, slipping off Milphey's shirt at the shoulder
and kissing there.
Milphey spun around, threw his arms around Guava's neck, and kissed
him soundly.
"Maybe."
Tira and Chocolate awoke and started the morning fire.
Milphey sat up and stretched and the girls stared at his bare arms
and loose hair. He stared at them in surprise as well. Guava sat up
and handed Milphey his shirt.
"You brought me back." Milphey observed as he pulled on his shirt.
Tira blushed as she realised what Milphey was talking about.
"Well, I didn't want any bears eating you up." Guava replied with a
lazy grin.
"Why thank you." Milphey said, belting his purple wrap.
"Good morning Marron!" Milphey said cheerfully as Marron sat up.
Gateau awoke with a start. Carrot grumbled something but slept on.
"How's your foot feeling?" Milphey asked, putting his hair up in his
ponytail.
"Fine." Marron replied.
"Well, let's go then." Milphey said cheerfully, bounding up and
waking Carrot.
Doughnut was a strange town. It looked normal enough, but it
felt weird. The hunters tried very hard not to let their discomfort
show.
"Welcome strangers." a man said, appearing in front of them suddenly
in the dusky evening.
"Hello." Tira said.
"I'm the mayor of Doughnut. How can I help you?" the man asked.
"We're just passing by." Chocolate said.
"Well, since you aren't sorcerers, we can let you pass by." the mayor
replied.
"Sorcerers?" Carrot said, pretending to be confused.
"Yes. We hate sorcerers. They are evil beings who want to enslave all
people and therefore must be destroyed." the mayor said.
"How?" Tira asked.
"The priest kills them. His power comes from the One." the mayor
replied.
"Could we meet the priest?" Marron asked.
"Of course. The priest is always willing to meet people. Wait here,
I'll go get him."
The mayor ran off.
"Do you think this priest is the sorcerer?" Chocolate said.
Marron nodded.
"It seems likely."
The mayor returned with the priest.
"Hey sorcerer! We're here to stop you!" Carrot said.
"Idiot." Gateau said.
"What?! Blasphemy! I call upon the power of the One to remove you."
the priest said, sending a blast of magic at the hunters. They all
dodged the first blast but Carrot got hit by the second. The
villagers came running as Carrot began to change. Marron quickly hit
his brother with a ward.
"See, sorcerers." the priest howled as the villagers mobbed the
hunters and tied them up.
"Take the two sorcerers away and lock their companions up." the
priest yelled. "We shall burn these sorcerers now!"
They were dragged off by the villagers.
"We're not sorcerers!" Gateau snarled as he was weighed down by
numerous villagers and chained.
The others were chained as well.
"Come on, I don't want to miss the burning." one villager said.
They locked the hunters up and went off. Everyone tired to loosen
their bonds. Gateau strained, muscles bulging.
"They're going to burn Carrot." Milphey said.
"Tira." Chocolate said.
"Sister." Tira replied, glasses flashing.
They changed and Chocolate broke free. She quickly untied everyone
else. They ran out and looked around for the Glaces brothers. They
heard a shout of joy and ran towards it. There they found the
villagers surrounding a fire.
"Carrot!" Tira said in horror.
The sisters ran towards the crowd. Milphey tossed Guava a knife, who
sprinted after the sisters. Gateau and Milphey followed. The sisters
carved a path towards the fire, scattering the villagers. Guava
rushed in and ran into the fire until he reached Marron and Carrot.
Guava sliced through the ropes and covered their faces with his
shirt. He hefted the brothers and ran through the fire.
"Get the sorcerers!" the priest yelled.
"Get them out of here, we'll go for the sorcerer." Chocolate ordered.
Guava nodded and hauled the brothers off. Some villagers came after
them with swords and spears. Guava ran, carrying the leg-tied
brothers with ease. He ran until they reached the waterfall. They
heard the villagers behind them. Without hesitation, Guava jumped
into the water.
Marron watched Guava's weary face as he tried to recuperate
from his ordeal. It had taken most of Guava's energy to use his talents
to keep Marron and Carrot mostly dry and breathing while they were in
the water. And then more to get them all upstream. Guava lay against
a tree, a fine sheen of sweat on his face. Carrot had gone scouting
to see if the villagers had followed them. Marron sat next to Guava
and watched him breathe. Guava's face was paler than Marron's skin,
which was a cause for concern. Using a sleeve, Marron wiped the sweat
from Guava's face. Guava opened his eyes and smiled weakly at Marron.
"Thank you." he whispered.
"Thank you." Marron replied. "You saved us from being burned."
"Just an everyday job." Guava replied with a chuckle, which turned
into a cough.
Marron stroked Guava's back, concerned. Guava recovered.
"Are you going to be alright?" Marron asked in worry.
"I'll be fine. I just need some time to rest." Guava replied.
Marron looked uncertain. Guava smiled.
"Turn those gorgeous eyes on someone whom you really care about." he
teased.
"I do care about you." Marron said softly.
Guava looked at Marron, who was very serious.
"Hey, knock it off there, Marron, you're scaring me." Guava said,
unnerved by the intensity of Marron's gaze.
Marron continued to stare at Guava, who was becoming rather agitated.
Especially after Marron started stroking Guava's face softly.
"Marron?" Guava whispered. "Please don't scare me like this. I don't
think I can handle the shock."
Marron leaned closer to Guava, so that he could feel the shorter
man's breath on his face.
"I don't think they're on to us." Carrot said as he came crashing
through the bush.
Marron jerked away from Guava as if stung and blinked at Carrot.
Guava managed a weak laugh.
"If they weren't, they are now." he whispered.
Marron grinned weakly at that.
"Do you need something to eat?" Carrot asked.
"That would probably help." Guava observed.
"Will you be okay here by yourself?" Carrot asked.
"Oh sure. The lady and I will be fine." Guava replied, closing his
eyes and smiling sickly.
Marron and Carrot exchanged worried glances.
"Maybe you should stay with him." Carrot suggested.
"Are you sure you'll be able to find food by yourself?" Marron asked.
"Marron, I think I'm old enough to find food by myself. I'm not three
you know." Carrot huffed.
"Could've fooled me." Guava whispered.
"Hey!" Carrot complained.
Guava grinned slightly before his face became a mask of weariness.
Carrot hustled off to look for food. Marron then noticed the pain in
Guava's face.
"Are you hurt?" Marron asked, concerned.
"I'm sitting on a sharp rock." Guava replied with a grimace.
"Oh."
Marron pondered this over. Guava was a lot bigger than he was.
Finally Marron gently tried to lift up half of Guava's body. However,
Guava was so weak that he slumped right over to the ground. Marron
quickly moved the rock and helped Guava back up.
"Are you alright?" Marron asked.
"Much better now." Guava replied. "But you almost knocked over the
lady."
"Lady?" Marron was confused. "Guava, you have to gather your strength
up."
Guava mumbled something. Marron looked at him worriedly. Was he
delirious?
"Guava?" Marron said, rubbing Guava's arm slightly.
"I'm fine." Guava replied automatically. "Just fine and dandy."
He slumped over and ended up resting most of his weight on Marron.
"Just need to rest." Guava mumbled.
Marron shifted to a more comfortable position and let Guava rest
against him. Marron began running his hands through Guava's hair.
"Feels nice." Guava said quietly.
Marron continued to stroke Guava's hair as Guava's breathing became
more relaxed and less desperate. Then Carrot came back with some
food. The brothers carefully fed Guava until he told them to stop.
"I'm getting worried about the others." Carrot said. "It's almost
dawn and they haven't come back yet."
"We can't leave Guava here by himself and it's too dangerous for only
one of us to go." Marron protested.
"Are you kidding? I'm the king of sneak." Carrot boasted.
"I should go brother." Marron said.
"No. If something happens to Guava while you're gone, I won't know
what to do." Carrot replied.
"But-"
"Don't worry Marron. I promise I won't even let a girl distract me."
Carrot replied.
"Not even a beautiful one?" Marron said doubtfully.
"Not even a beautiful one." Carrot promised.
"Well, okay then." Marron said reluctantly.
"Don't worry about me Marron." Carrot assured. "I'll be alright."
He grinned reassuringly and went off. Guava stirred and Marron turned
his attention to him.
"Are you alright?" Marron asked.
"I need you to do something for me." Guava said.
"Anything." Marron replied.
"Just cut my arm and the tree I'm leaning against and press the cuts
together." Guava instructed.
Marron looked concerned.
"Are you sure?" he asked.
"Yes." Guava said firmly.
Marron nodded and picked up the knife. He cut the tree first and then
carefully cut Guava's arm. He then pressed the two wounds together.
Guava gasped.
"Guava?" Marron said, instantly concerned.
"I'm fine." Guava managed. "Strong lady." he added with a weak smile.
Marron smiled uncomprehendingly. He was still puzzling over the
colour of Guava's blood. It was brown. He had noticed it earlier,
when he had been healing Guava's bomb wounds, but had assumed that it
was discoloured because of the chemicals in the bombs. Now he
realised that it was the actual colour of Guava's blood. Marron
noticed that Guava was getting stronger. After a bit, Guava sat up by
himself and removed his arm. Marron watched in surprise as the tree
healed itself. Guava bandaged his wound and smiled at Marron.
"Much better now." Guava said.
"How?" Marron asked.
"I am only slightly human Marron. Most of me can be cured by the
natural things around me."
"Oh."
Guava smiled at Marron, who smiled back tentatively. Guava leaned
against the tree.
"Still a bit weak?" Marron asked.
Guava nodded. Marron gave him some more food.
"Don't tell anyone what just happened please." Guava said. "The
ladies like their privacy."
"I won't." Marron promised. "Do you mean that the lady you were
referring to is the tree?"
Guava nodded.
"But why did you let me know?" Marron asked.
"Because I can trust you." Guava replied.
Marron smiled at this.
"Thank you." he said.
Then, to both their surprise, Marron leaned over and gave Guava a
quick kiss on the cheek. Guava stared and Marron blushed.
"Marron? What is it?" Guava asked gently. "You've been acting very
differently since the river."
Marron's blush deepened.
"I've been doing a lot of thinking." Marron said slowly. "While you
were resting."
Guava just sat there and waited patiently for Marron to continue.
"And I've come to a conclusion." Marron said finally.
He looked Guava straight in the eye.
"Guava, I love you." Marron said firmly.
Guava started. He stared back at Marron, mouth opening wordlessly.
"Marron, I-I..." Guava trailed off.
He took Marron's hands in his.
"Are you sure Marron?" Guava asked desperately. "Are you absolutely
sure? This isn't just puppy love or adoration? You honestly love
me?"
Marron nodded firmly.
"I do." he said. "I'm sure of it."
Guava smiled gently.
"I'm so glad Marron." he said. "Because I love you too."
Marron was only slightly startled.
"You do?" he said hopefully.
"Yes. But I was afraid you didn't and I couldn't do that to you."
Guava said. "I couldn't let you know that I loved you if you didn't
feel the same way. That would have strained everything."
Marron smiled. Guava leaned over and gave him a gentle kiss on the
lips. Marron closed his eyes and returned the kiss. Guava broke the
kiss and looked into Marron's eyes. Marron stared back
unhesitatingly. He moved so that he was closer to Guava and then
leaned in for another kiss. Guava obliged and Marron put his hands on
Guava's chest as Guava hugged him close, shifting Marron into his
lap. Marron eagerly kissed Guava, revealing in the warmth. They
looked at each other. Marron played with the buttons of Guava's
shirt. Guava chuckled.
"My, aren't we eager." he teased.
Marron blushed slightly but answered with another soft kiss. Guava
gave him a breathtaking kiss in response.
"Marron!" came Carrot's incredulous voice.
Marron and Guava hastily got up. Marron looked guilty. Everyone was
there. Guava immediately dragged Carrot over to the side as fast as
he could and whispered something to him. Carrot looked surprised,
then thoughtful, and finally understanding. He nodded. Marron was red
faced and couldn't meet anyone's eyes. Carrot went over to his
brother and put an arm around his shoulders.
"Congratulations Marron." Carrot said with a smile.
Marron looked at his brother incredulously. Carrot smiled
reassuringly.
"So, what happened?" Guava asked the others.
"We killed the sorcerer and the villagers returned to normal." Gateau
said with a casual shrug.
"They've invited us to stay for a few days." Chocolate said.
"Yes. Let's stay." Carrot said. "I think I'd like to...talk with the
mayor more."
Gateau snorted as Chocolate and Tira glared at Carrot. He laughed and
ran off. The girls gave chase. After a glare at Guava, Milphey
followed Gateau and the others. Guava gave Marron a gentle kiss and
took his hand.
"Come on." he said.
Marron and Guava followed the others back towards Doughnut.
They were given three rooms at the inn for the night. Tira,
Chocolate, and Carrot shared a room and Gateau and Milphey shared
another, leaving Guava and Marron by themselves. Marron was hesitant
at the thought of being alone with Guava in such an intimate place
but Guava put all Marron's fears at ease by wishing him a good night
and going to sleep. Marron, however, wanted to be near Guava. Torn,
Marron stood in the middle of the room and staring blankly around
him. Suddenly Guava sat up.
"Marron." he said, stretching out his hand.
Marron went over to him and was surprised as Guava lifted him off his
feet and onto the bed. Guava kissed Marron deeply before snuggling
against him and pulling the covers over them. Marron leaned into the
warmth of Guava's body and closed his eyes.
They set out for Big Mama's city the next day. Tira had
dropped back to where Marron and Guava were walking to give Marron a
kiss on the cheek and words of encouragement, which made Marron
smile. Chocolate did more or less the same thing, being slightly
lewder in her choice of words. The only ones who weren't supportive
were Gateau and Milphey. Gateau was a little upset but he got over
it. He was just uncomfortable about saying anything to Marron.
Milphey was still mad at Guava. Marron could tell by all the glares
that Milphey kept giving Guava. They stopped for the night and
prepared their meal. Marron sat down and handed Guava some food. They
ate in silence, listening to Tira and Chocolate pick on Carrot.
Marron was still hesitant about touching simply because he was still
unused to it. But he did lean against Guava as they ate. As soon as
they had finished eating, Guava hefted Marron onto his lap. Marron
squirmed in protest and tried to get off.
"Don't worry Marron. Everyone knows." Guava whispered, kissing
Marron's ear.
"But-" Marron began protesting, and then gasped as Guava nibbled on
his ear.
"Guava." Marron protested breathlessly.
Guava grinned and grabbed Marron's hand. Gently entwining their
fingers, Guava kissed the hand.
"We're in public." Marron tried again.
"Do you not like this?" Guava asked.
"I like it." Marron replied.
"Good." Guava continued to kiss Marron's hand.
"But we're around people." Marron said.
Guava gazed at Marron with solemn eyes. Marron felt himself melting
under the gaze.
"I'm sorry." Guava said. "I just want to express my love for you."
Marron smiled.
"I appreciate it." he said. "It's just...I'm not comfortable with
other people around."
"Oh, I could make you forget that there's anyone else here." Guava
said.
Marron blushed at the thought.
"Um, no please." he said.
Guava chuckled and kissed Marron deeply. Marron returned the kiss.
"Hey, we're trying to sleep here." Carrot grumbled jokingly.
Marron blushed and broke away from Guava. Suddenly, Guava got up,
cradling Marron.
"If we're bothering you, then we'll go elsewhere." Guava said.
Marron blushed furiously as Guava carried him away from the campfire.
The sisters gaped after them. Milphey looked indifferent. Gateau
ignored it all and Carrot muttered about not having someone to cuddle
with at night, quietly so that Chocolate wouldn't hear him of course.
Guava carried Marron a ways away from the campfire and then
settled down against a tree.
"Alone at last." Guava joked suggestively.
Marron blushed.
"I-I-" he began.
"Well, you did say that you weren't comfortable with people around."
Guava reminded as he nibbled on Marron's neck.
Marron gasped and then moaned as Guava's lips met his. Marron froze
slightly as Guava began undoing Marron's buttons. Guava sensed this
and stopped. He looked at Marron.
"We'll only go as far as you're comfortable with." Guava said. "I
promise."
Marron nodded slightly as Guava kissed him again.
Tira slowly walked up to the sleeping couple and almost
"aww-ed" at how cute they looked. Guava lay on the ground and Marron
was on top of him, head on chest. Both had their arms around each
other. Tira smiled at the picture. Guava opened his eyes and winked
at Tira. She stifled a giggle at the fact that he was awake and
letting Marron sleep. Guava grinned and waggled his eyebrows at Tira.
She tried hard not to laugh as Guava gently teased Marron awake by
tickling him with his own hair. Marron wrinkled his nose and batted
at the annoyance. Guava took Marron's wandering hand and began
kissing it. Marron frowned in puzzlement as he slowly woke up. The
first thing he noticed was that he was lying on someone. The second
thing he noticed was that his hand was being kissed. Then he saw Tira
and frowned. He slowly sat up, wincing as some hair was pulled free
from the body it was under. He propped himself up to see Guava
kissing his hand.
"Good morning." Guava said.
"Good morning." Marron replied.
Guava smiled and pulled Marron down for a deep kiss. Tira blushed
slightly but found that she was happy for Marron and that stopped her
blushing. Marron reluctantly ended the kiss as his awareness of Tira
wouldn't let him indulge himself. He sat up, on top of Guava, and
slowly got up.
"What's going on?" he asked.
"Breakfast." she replied.
Marron's eyes widened.
"What time is it?" he asked.
"Late." she replied. "You slept in."
He looked faintly horrified.
"I slept in?" he repeated in disbelief.
"Busy night?" Tira teased gently with a blush.
Marron blushed as well.
"No, nothing happened." he said.
"It's true." Guava supported. "Nothing happened. We talked and then
slept. That's all."
He got up as well and shook the leaves out of his hair. Taking
Marron's hand, and then Tira's, Guava lead them back to the group.
"Ooh, both at once?" Carrot joked as he saw them.
"Of course." Guava said haughtily as Marron and Tira blushed and
glared at Carrot.
Carrot laughed while Chocolate shook her head. They ate their
breakfast and set off for the next town. Daughter stopped them
abruptly.
"Big Mama wants you to return to her." Daughter said suddenly without
her usual preamble.
She vanished as quickly as she had come. The Hunters looked at each
other in confusion.
"I've got to go then." Milphey said before leaving as well.
"What about you Guava?" Chocolate asked. "Aren't you returning to
Silken?"
Marron tensed slightly at the though. Guava slung a comforting arm
around Marron's shoulders as they walked.
"No. It was time for me to leave them." Guava said. "I had been
delaying the inevitable."
Marron relaxed and the other Hunters accepted Guava's story. They
continued walking. Guava leaned over and placed a kiss on Marron's
ear.
"I'm not leaving you now that I've got you." Guava whispered.
Marron smiled slightly at that. Feeling bold, and because they were
behind everyone, he turned and kissed Guava quickly.
"Good. Because I wouldn't have let you leave." Marron whispered back.
Guava straightened and arched an amused eyebrow at Marron.
The hunters reached the Stellar Church in record time. No
mishaps, no evil sorcerers on the way. Big Mama was waiting for them
in the main hall. She smiled as they entered the room.
"Welcome back." she said as Daughter grinned.
"Big Mama." Tira said with an answering smile.
Guava went over and bowed at Big Mama's feet. He then rose and they
kissed each other's cheeks.
"My lady." Guava said.
"Guava." Big Mama replied. "I heard that you did something you should
not have."
Guava ducked his head.
"I know that I should not have done what I did. But I am not sorry
for what happened. It was to be." he said.
Big Mama looked into Guava's eyes, and then smiled.
"So be it then." she agreed.
"Thank you." Guava said.
He returned to Marron's side.
"I have a new assignment for all of you." Big Mama said. "But you'll
have to split up for it. Gateau and Chocolate, you are to go to Candy
and capture the sorcerer there and bring her back. Carrot and Tira,
you go to Cashew and capture and bring back the sorcerer there.
Marron, you are going to the Makai to capture a youko and bring it
back here."
"By himself?" Carrot said warily.
"No, Guava will be going with you." Big Mama informed.
The Hunters nodded.
"We are not going to kill these sorcerers." Big Mama said clearly.
"We need them for a purpose. Good luck."
The Hunters split up and headed out. Guava and Marron looked at each
other and then at Big Mama.
"Are you happy Marron?" she asked. "With Guava?"
Marron nodded solemnly.
"I'm glad then." she said.
Marron matched her smile briefly.
"Are you ready to go?" Big Mama asked.
They nodded.
"Hold on." she said.
Guava drew Marron close as Big Mama worked her magic and faded from
their sight.
The End