She had to wait another Sunday rolled around to be able to do anything else as payback. It was quite an interesting, if not presumptuous, proposition she gave. With only a mysterious benefit promised in return.
The week, oddly enough, seemed to pass in a blur in spots...long suffering moments in others. She was just thankful when Saturday night rolled around and made doubly sure to have all homework done so she wouldn't have to worry about it...and listen to her mother get on her case. Another thing to celebrate was the finalization of her book report and that it was handed in on Thursday. The weight was now off her shoulders, and she could relax.
Which was what she was doing ten times over at the moment. Sluggishly unhooking Willow's arms from her waist, she rolled over at the speed of a snail and tried looking at the clock through droopy lids. She stared for what seemed minutes before her brain grasped the red buzzing numbers...eyes opening to ungodly proportions.
AAAAAHH! She was going to be LATE! The numbers read seven-forty...WAY later than she intended on sleeping in!
A finger shot out from under the warm covers and pressed down on the alarm button, knowing she set the alarm last night! The little button next to the word 'alarm' was even glowing its red little dot! She groaned upon finding a similar looking dot to the p.m. and realized she set for twelve hours LATER.
She grumbled insults and berated her clumsiness all throughout the hot morning shower. How could she've been so DUMB? She went to bed at nine last night...she wasn't that tired to make such an obvious mistake! The five were meeting at nine at the part near the hotel, and she was lucky the farthest she had to walk was two or three blocks!
"God...stupid, stupid, STUPID!" She grit out, turning the water off. She'd be lucky to get dressed, write her parents a note that she'd be gone for a few hours, get a small breakfast snack - if there WAS anything - and high-tail it to the rendezvous point!
After harshly drying herself off and wrapping the sash against the fluffy robe, she almost flung the door open and came face to face with a sleepy Kevin. She startled and gave a small cry, nearly tripping on the shiny linoleum.
After gaining her wits, she fiercely glared for scaring her and not even saying he was up when the shower turned off! "What're YOU doing up so early?" She retorted, quickly pushing past.
"What EARLY? It's ten after eight." He tiredly mumbled, shutting the door. "And for YOUR information, you woke me up!" He called.
She gave out a small 'eek' at the later time and rushed to the armoire, throwing it open. Eyes frantically looked around for something pretty, yet appropriate for the hot day. It was going to be a muggy day, so she settled on shorts and a plain button-up t-shirt. There was no need to go into extremes when all they were doing was touring Toyama.
Quickly dressing while Kevin was in the bathroom, she towel-dried her hair and impatiently waited for him to get out so she could use the hair-dryer. She liked having the short hair, as opposing to the near waist length it was before they moved. The constant travel and fast life-style didn't allow for such luxuries as air-drying one's hair. As she found out that pro right now.
When she waited maybe five more minutes, Kevin still not out of the bathroom, she gave up with a huff and ran to get a wide-toothed comb. If she couldn't brush it while it was dry, she'd have to fix it while it was wet and keep it out of her way. The locks were thankfully not as tangled today - a rarity with such thick hair - and ended up in a quick, French-braid.
After tying the end, she speared the clock a quick glance and found it almost eight thirty. With a small, despairing cry, she quickly rushed to the bedroom door and threw it open. She was startled - not thinking anyone else would be up so early - upon finding her mother cross the living room and go into the kitchen with a coffee mug in hand.
Her brow furrowed. It must be later than she thought if her mother was up! Her mother was normally up early on the weekdays to get them all ready for school...but like her, Sundays were her days to sleep in unless something was going on.
She quietly shut the door to keep from waking Willow and hurried into the kitchen area and started scanning through cupboards.
"Morning baby." Her mother called with an amused smile, quickly standing near the dining room table. "Is there a reason you're in such a hurry?" A curious brow rose as she spied the wall clock above the sink. "You're up early, for a girl who likes to sleep in on the weekends..."
She almost didn't hear her mother's words through the panicked haze she was in. Nothing looked good, but her stomach demanded to be fed. The empty pit started gnawing and she knew it was only a matter of time before it growled and embarrassed her in public.
She found a few breakfast bars and opened one, stuffing the end in her mouth and opened the fridge for the milk. She took a few quick bites before hitting the cupboards to grab a glass. Through a full mouth, she turned to her mother, finding that amused expression still on the elder's face. "I'm going sight-seeing." She mumbled, shoving the bar in her mouth and trying not to splash milk all over the place.
"Oh?" Consuela's brow shot up in amazement and surprise. "And just when did you intend on TELLING me this?" She mused, smile widening. She couldn't really be mad at her daughter for not telling her plans, since this was the first time she left the suite like this. But...by herself? "Just HOW do you plan on doing that and not get lost?"
She quickly finished off the first bar and dumped the wrapping in the garbage bin under the sink. Without pausing, she opened another and dug in as well, only taking a second to gulp down the milk. "With a few friends from school." She got out.
Out of the corner of her eye, a door opened and Willow staggered out half asleep.
"Well you'd better slow down Epi." Consuela lectured, giving a mothering glance. She just gave a confused look at her mother's words. "If you eat that any faster, your lungs are going to get it and then you'll be in real trouble."
"I'll be FINE." She got out again, putting the rest of her attention to the remaining bar and half glass of milk. As she tossed the wrapper merely seconds later, Willow stopped in the area and sat down on Consuela's lap.
"What's going on?" She slurred, looking at her sister. "Epi...why are you eating so fast? Momma always says to slow down when you eat. You'll enjoy your food more that way."
"That's right. You're very correct baby." Consuela mused, affectionately rubbing her girl's hair.
She ignored the two and grabbed the glass, trying to gulp the milk down as quickly as possible. When she finished, she set it in the sink and turned the water on high, glancing at the clock. Oh crap...eight forty-five! She was going to have to run if she wanted to make it on time!
"Can't, I gotta run!" She hastily answered, taking enough time to shut the water off and rocketing it to the front door. She opened the coat closet and started quickly eyeing what she should wear for shoes. Sandals would be the best for heat.
As she strapped one on, the voice of doom casually sounded from the kitchenette area.
"Oh Epiphany...why don't you take Will with you?" Consuela announced, using that voice that said it'd be a good idea if she did. She mentally groaned and said a few choice words in English, Spanish, and a few other languages she knew of. "Since you WILL be gone for a few hours it seems, take her along. I'm sure your little...classmates won't mind and you two can spend some more time together."
She was stuck. "But...MOOOOM...can't YOU watch Will while I'm gone?" She pleaded. With barely time to spare, she shot into visual and gave her mom puppy dog eyes. "I'll ONLY be gone a few hours. I just got introduced to these people after a month...I don't know how they'll feel with me dragging Will along!"
Consuela's good demeanor quickly faded to mothering as her eyes narrowed. They both knew what that last statement meant. Not only would there be extra company to watch over, she would have to take care of Willow as she normally did and that would put things in a rough spot. Consuela saw more of her youngest than either the two did together. There would come a time, she knew, when her eldest would turn eighteen and move back to Spain to go to college. She didn't like traveling as the rest of the family.
"Epiphany Sundance!" She loudly called, using a harsh tone that spoke volumes. Basically...Consuela was chiding her for not wanting to spend time with her baby sister...and the unknown, silent threat of her D.S. making her be watched over every second.
She heaved a sigh and looked to the clock over the sink. Even if Willow did go, not by her choice, there was no way she'd get there in any time close to nine! As it was, the clock already showed eight fifty. But, she knew if she didn't consent to her mother's spontaneous wish, she'd be in hot water later.
"How come YOU can't watch over her?" She argued, not wanting her sister to come. All she wanted to do today was have fun! Or at least try to and open up. She didn't want the responsibility of looking after her ten-year-old sister, and knew the five might not take kindly to her. Everything was so shaky now... The three that initially met her didn't know of Willow, and she knew many frowned upon people like that. She didn't want to take that chance just yet.
"Because your father is taking Kevin with him on business." Consuela continued, gently pushing her baby off her lap. "Go get ready sweetie. Wear something nice, but cool for the weather. Hurry now!" Willow, oblivious to the irritation and resentment, ran to her room and almost slammed the door to get ready for a day of fun.
Hands clenched to extremely tight fists. Her mother HAD to do this to her NOW. Today of all days! If it were ANY other time during the last month, she wouldn't have minded. Her eyes went back to the clock. Eight fifty-three. She openly groaned as eyes slowly closed. They wouldn't make it by nine...no chance in hell. But then - the sarcastic part of her mind shot out - that's where she was!
The silence dropped like an awkward, lead weight. "I STILL don't know why you couldn't have watched Willow for me!" She grit out, glaring daggers.
"Don't you take that tone with me Epiphany Sundance." Consuela scolded, giving a mild glare. "You know very well that you spend time off with your sister and a few hours by yourselves. Take her with you! Get her out of the suite for a while! It certainly won't hurt anything." A small smile tilted her lips. "And while the place is empty, I think I'll enjoy myself as well."
Frustrated tears burned in her eyes. Didn't her mother see just what this was costing her?! Enjoy herself...what about HER enjoyment?!
Fists clenched tighter...if it was possible. "You don't UNDERSTAND!" She grit out, voice shaking. She took a deep breath and willed tears away. Seconds later, Willow burst from the room and ran into the hallway for her shoes. At least, she thought, it was fast! If she pulled Willow's arm, probably out of the socket, and held onto her with a dead run, they might be a minute or two late!
Getting from her seat, Consuela walked to the hallway and helped Willow put her sandals on. When she finished, she halted the girl with hands on her shoulders. Consuela met her daughter dead in the eye, utterly serious. "Now LISTEN to me Willow...I want you to be on your best behavior today. Epiphany is going to take you with her, and the people with her you haven't met. I want you to do EXACTLY as she says while you're gone. Understood?"
Willow quickly nodded, the thrill of a day out still clouding her mind. "Yes momma!" She exuberantly agreed.
She stood with hands covering her face, wondering just what she did to DESERVE this. It would've been better if she didn't even tell her mother where she was going.
She looked up when a presence walked past and eyed her mother through her fingers, sitting back in the chair. "Have fun you two." She called, sipping her coffee.
With a death glare through her hands, they dropped as she spun around and held her hand out to Willow. She quickly took the child's hand, instinctually knowing it was already nine. They were late...so what was the point in running? This was just icing on the cake!
As she patted the back pocket to make sure the key was in place, she growled as Willow quickly called out a 'hi' to the nearest hotel resident.
~*~*~
The five met up at Rowen's house, since he'd be the hardest to get up. Sage was the first to collect everyone on his way to the meeting point before they headed out, being the first to wake up. The four almost had to strong-arm him to get him to come along, saying he really didn't do anything on Sunday ANYWAY. And if they were willing to make things work, then he should as well.
Sage only scowled a little as the three walked inside, not a peep anywhere. He may have to come, but he surely didn't have to LIKE it.
Since the Hashiba's weren't known for a normal morning routine, and knowing their friend's sleep habits - especially at eight in the morning - they all trudged upstairs and stopped in front of his door. Kento yawned, but tried to cover it. They all knew it was a little early to sightsee, even if they didn't mind showing off the precious city they all thoroughly protected. But it was still too early to get up for not being a school day.
Ryo was the first to enter, seeing their job would be a difficult one at best. Cye headed second and gave a small groan, finding Rowen's scrunched up position not encouraging in the least. Kento took the middle and good-naturedly rolled his eyes at finding the blue hair buried under an equally blue pillow.
Sage, filing in last, took one look and smirked. "I guess the bed swallowed him up." He cracked, gazing with the others. The blanket didn't show an ounce of his body. It stopped almost parallel with the pillow over his head. His body was one big lump under the blue comforter.
"Looks like." Ryo mused, grinning with his friend.
"That just makes it that much more fun for the REST of us." Kento joked, looking to those next to him.
Cye snorted. "Speak for yourself. You think I wanna wake up THAT?" He retorted, a finger pointing to the bundle.
"Aw buddy, it's all in your manner of handling things. Let old Hardrock show you how it's done."
Kento stopped at the edge of the bed and, with a quick crack of his knuckles, grabbed a portion of the comforter and yanked. A muffled, sleepy cry sounded from underneath the pillow as the blanket pulled away from Rowen's body, almost dumping him on the floor in the process. They soon found out he had it wrapped around his body. "Up Rowen...NOW." Kento mused, tossing the blanket out of Rowen's reach.
"No...five more minutes." Rowen begged, putting the pillow over his head and clutching it in both hands.
Ryo chuckled. That was Rowen to a T. And this was exactly why they were here an hour early. It only took twenty minutes to get to the hotel Epiphany was at...the rest of the time would be MORE than well spent. "Sorry Ro...it's already eight fifteen. The ride across town takes twenty. That means your five ended when we got across the house to your room." He jovially announced.
A wailing groan sounded under the pillow, fingers clutching it tighter. "Can't you come back and pick me up?" Rowen muttered, curling fetal position against the brisk morning air. There was absolutely no heat without his precious comforter!
"Sorry buddy. I'm sure Epiphany would be pretty let down if she didn't get to see all five of us there." Kento announced, reaching down for the pillow. It was a quick struggle, of about ten seconds against Hardrock's grip, before it joined the blanket across the room.
Now defeated, Rowen sat up and scratched the back of his head. "You guys just don't give up, DO you?" He darkly muttered, yawning.
"That's why I'm over HERE." Sage absently mused, giving his good friend an entertained brow.
"SHOVE it, sun boy." Rowen retorted. That crass, totally acceptable comment gained him snickers in return...even from Sage. Rowen stood and stretched with another yawn before giving his friends and fellow warriors a bland look. "Out while I get changed."
Cye grinned. "Promise not to go back to bed?"
Rowen glared at Cye, having been figured out. "Yea, yea..." He waved. They were all out in little less than five and he quickly threw something on. As he walked out, he found them crowding his doorway. "What...didn't you believe me?" He asked, running a hand through his hair to tame it.
Ryo smirked from his position on the floor. "Early for you Rowen is TEN. So...NO." He received a glare and it just widened his smile.
"We have enough time for food before we ship out?" He asked, taking the lead to the kitchen. Even if they didn't, he was going to grab something. He was hungry!
"You've got about ten minutes." Sage announced, looking up from his watch.
"I should be able to get something quick." That ended up being a few bananas...also what he had to fight to keep Kento from grabbing. After threatening Kento with certain death, he managed to keep the hungry youth away while he snagged a quick glass of orange juice. "Sheesh Kento...doesn't your family FEED you at your house?" He muttered, quickly gulping the drink.
Kento grinned and nodded. "Of COURSE they do. But I'm a growing boy. As ma always says."
"At the rate you're eating, you'll be growing OUT, not up." Cye playfully muttered, giving his good friend a quick poke to the stomach. He was the only that dared to make fun of Kento's muscled body and get away with only maiming. Kento gave a quick growl and glare before chasing his friend into another room.
"Hey guys, we don't have TIME for that!" Sage called, a little annoyed. Was he the ONLY punctual one in the group?
A quick yelp and startled cry met his rebuke. Seconds later, Kento walked in with a smile, Cye draped over his shoulder. "Put me down!" Cye bellowed, growling. With a quick laugh, Kento complied, knowing they had to get going. Torture could continue later.
The only good thing they could all agree on, save for Sage, about being up so early was the beautiful morning that greeted them. Dew was on the lawn as they set a brisk pace to the bus stop a few blocks away. The morning air was crisp and smelled of the evaporating water. Cye inhaled deeply, loving the smell. The sun blazed low in the sky, casting long shadows from their bodies as they hustled. They didn't want to be late.
~*~*~
"Well, where IS she??" Rowen asked, laying back on the grass. Dew be damned, he still wasn't awake yet and it was nine on the dot. He lay almost flat on his back in the park and crossed his arms. "Wake me when she gets here."
"No way, no how Ro." Kento muttered, quickly dropped to his knees. He grabbed Rowen's arm and pulled, dragging the lanky youth into a sitting position. "If you fall asleep on us now, you won't be up when she gets here!"
"Whenever THAT is." Sage muttered, looking at his watch again. He wanted to get this done with. He wasn't too keen on giving up part of his only solo, free time. With family around and school six days of the week, there wasn't much time to even meditate.
Cye and Kento busied themselves in the meantime by keeping lookout. Ryo was content to watch the sun rise, as was Sage, and Rowen sat on one of the benches to keep his clothes from getting any wetter, mildly justified to stare at nothing and let his mind wander. If he couldn't sleep, this was the next best thing to pass the time. Cye also reasoned that the bench would be just uncomfortable enough to keep him from falling asleep again.
"Do you think she forgot?" Cye quietly asked his friend. He cast the others a look to make sure they weren't watching him and Kento before giving a skeptical look. Sage was the only one with a watch right now and he didn't know how late it was. But the sun climbed a little higher and he knew it was past nine.
"I doubt it buddy." Kento murmured back, eyes scanning the streets. There was little traffic, people or cars, so it was easy to know when she was coming. "You saw the look in her eyes when she asked. Why would she skip out on it NOW?"
"I dunno." Cye shrugged. "Maybe she'll act like she did before." He muttered, a little bitterly.
Kento gave his friend a minute, odd look. "I TOLD you Cye, she's trying. You can't expect her to-"
"-Adjust to school life in the matter of a few weeks." Cye finished. "Yes, I KNOW Kento. You've already said it enough times. I'm just wondering if she won't 'conveniently' forget the first people she reached out to."
"How do you know we're the first?" Kento asked, raising a brow.
Cye gave a small, humorless smile. "Have you seen anyone ELSE sitting with her?"
Kento didn't get a chance to answer. Though he opened his mouth, it snapped shut upon finding a blur on the landscape hurrying in their direction. His eyes spotted that short, stocky form, and he grinned. "Fashionably late." He answered instead, heading to meet her halfway.
Turning behind him, Cye saw the others didn't notice Kento left. "Hey guys," He called, finger pointing behind him, "she made it." With a small smile, Cye followed his friend.
The three gave a brief look as the two started down the sidewalk. Sage raised a brow and cast the other two a doubtful look. "Who's that with her?" He asked. She didn't mention anything about that...
Ryo gave Rowen a look, brows raised. He wasn't exactly thrilled about this curveball, as Rowen's mirrored look shone, but he wasn't going to tell Sage anything until he had a few answers. "Come on, before they leave without us." He answered, starting off.
~*~*~
"Come ON Willow...we need to HURRY." She ordered, pulling her sister across the lobby.
"Epi...OW! My hand hurts." Willow slurred, trying to yank it away. She only pulled harder and mildly ignored her sister, knowing if their hands separated, Willow's attention would switch to something and then they'd NEVER get there!
They stopped just outside the doors and she looked to the distance. A severe squint found a small blot on the top hill; people idly standing around. Their forms were too thin and blurry to make out from here, but she knew the five were waiting. Probably had been for the past five minutes now.
She suddenly let go of Willow's hand and turned around. "Change of plans." She hustled down a few steps, making their height even and turned her back to Willow. "Hop on kid, this'll make things go quicker and I won't pull your hand."
Willow widely smiled and basically jumped onto her sister's back. A piggyback ride! One of her favorite things to do! Tightly twining those thin arms around her neck, she hugged the back of that still wet head with a gleeful smile. "I'm on." She happily announced.
"So I noticed." She inanely joked. Arms tightened around Willow's legs and she carefully took the dozen or so steps down. This was a time when speed was necessary above all else, if it wouldn't be a little awkward in doing so. If she were a little taller, carrying Willow wouldn't be such a burden. She was just thankful the four foot youth didn't weigh that much. Otherwise she'd have to continue to drag Willow up the sidewalk.
The second they reached the last step, she hurried into a quick walk. Her back leaned over to distribute the weight easier, and tried to slowly breathe as Willow's arms tightened around her neck to the point of choking . It was only a few blocks, she reasoned. They could make it in a few more minutes!
Arms tightened their hold around Willow's knees as they started to slip. About a block before they reached the five, she started huffing for air. Willow's arms got tighter in the distance, and carrying the added weight on her back instead of dragging it, was going to be her downfall. Thank god she had such a good runner's sprint from chasing after Willow all the time. She put the little burst of energy into use and jogged a little faster to close the space.
Her head looked up to see how close they were and found people coming. She gave a small smile. Lord did she hope they weren't mad at her.
When Kento stopped, she straightened and gulped air like a drowning fish. "Hey, glad you made it." He mused, eyeing her and Willow's position.
"Mom...made me...bring her along." She mumbled, shifting the weight. She gave a small choking sound when Willow tried to scoot up and pulled on her neck in the process. "Hope you don't mind." She nearly rasped.
Kento let go of the tight embrace he had over his lips, pressing them together to keep from laughing. "Nothing we can't handle."
When Willow shifted again, she huffed. "Alright kid, you're getting DOWN!" She good-naturedly threatened.
That was the wrong thing to say. Willow's arms only tightened as she clung to her sister with more resolve to stay air-borne and she all but gagged in reflex. "No!" She pleaded, pressing their cheeks together. "Please Epi, don't make me get down!"
She wished those hands would let go their death grip. "Sorry Will, I can't carry you EVERYWHERE we go. Time to get down." Without waiting for Willow to respond back, she slowly let go of Willow's knees and kneeled to gently let her down. Willow stood on her own power and a hand went to her throat. "Man...you've got some GRIP for a ten-year-old." She muttered, clearing her throat.
Kento grinned and kneeled in front of Willow, giving the small girl a disarming smile. He knew his size tended to intimidate those smaller than him. It was a small ironicy that he look so 'scary', yet was a pretty gentle person most of the time.
"Hey little one. Remember me?" He didn't get an answer as Willow shot behind her legs and peered out from behind them in the short proximity. He found it even more amusing, since their first meeting was quite opposite.
She couldn't help but give a small smile at Kento's way with kids. In fact, he looked like the type to be very acquainted with them. He didn't seem fazed that Willow had to come along. "Willow, come out here and meet one of the people you'll be spending some time with." Her head craned to look behind her, a hand reaching for Willow's arm. She gently tugged the child up front and kneeled. Now more level with Kento's gaze, she gave an apologetic look. "I'm SO sorry for getting this more involved than I intended." She mumbled, cheeks burning.
Kento only grinned. "Hey, no big deal. I've got a sister a little younger than her." His hand rose and playfully tousled Willow's hair. "No big deal. I like kids."
She stood upon finding Cye a few steps away and stood. She gave a meek smile, another apologetic look on her face. "Hello Cye." She quietly greeted. He gave a small smile and nod. Kento and Willow stared at each other as she cast a quick direction to the ground. "Sorry about this. I couldn't get mother to watch Willow for me."
Cye looked at the cute scene below and at the young Marzellos. Willow was still staring at Kento with an expression that said she knew him, but from somewhere she couldn't remember. He looked up and waved off the apology. "No big deal. She can't be TOO much trouble." He kidded, looking back down. The thin child looked like an innocent. Those large brown eyes of hers reminded him of a fawn.
Her lips pressed together to quell a knowing smile. She wondered if she should tell the five what Willow was capable of, but then they might order her to take the girl back home. She gave a half smile-grimace and looked to find the others walking over. She didn't have a problem with that. Part of her was being selfish about these people who wanted to be her friends. Why should SHE share them?
"NOW I know where I know you from!" Willow burst out. Kento's brow raised in amusement as he leaned back on his haunches. The gaping, wide-eyed look she was giving him was too funny and it was hard not to laugh at her simplistic mind frame. It was kind of puzzling though, since Chun Fa was a more mature at times.
Those dark eyes jerked behind him and he twisted around, finding the three almost upon them. "I know him, and him too!" She loudly slurred, a hand pointing into his field of vision. In that sporadic frame of mind, she walked past without another word and stopped at Ryo's feet, looking way up into his eyes. "You're the one with the shiny bike." She announced, tugging on his jeans.
It took all the effort she possessed not to laugh. From hearing the quick snicker below from Kento and the smiling look from Rowen, she knew they were also trying to do the same. Ryo, in the meantime, gave Willow a patronizing look, but his cheeks were a little red. A smile at her sister's behavior popped up. She couldn't help it...her sister was a constant source of amusement. She just hoped that Willow's low attention span wouldn't be more hindrance than amusement. "Now Will...you know what MOTHER said before we left." She lightly ordered, trying to suppress laughter.
Willow turned and met her eyes dead on. "No?"
She heaved a sigh and walked around Cye, feeling a bit uncomfortable at all the eyes. She knew the three in front were looking at her, and it seemed that Sage was expressing his dislike for this situation though that visible eye. She swallowed discomfort and kneeled in front of Willow, giving her a serious face. "Mother TOLD you to be on your best behavior. You know what THAT means, right?"
Willow almost sullenly nodded. "Not run off and don't shout so much." She mumbled, as if someone let all the air from her sails.
She smiled and patted that pixy-cut head. "Yes, try and REMEMBER that." After standing, she gave the three in front another remorseful look. "I know this puts a spin on things, but I tried to get out of it." She explained again, needing them to understand. A hand lightly rested on her sister's shoulder. "Mom told me to spend some time with her, and I promise you guys won't have to do anything to look after her. I'll make sure to keep an eagle eye on her." Like she normally did.
"Hey, it's okay." Ryo answered, giving a small smile. How disrespectful could a young girl - though exuberant - be? "We can look after her too."
Sage cleared his throat and looked away, clearly communicating with that subtle action. He got a few looks, but ignored them. Though he didn't have a massive problem with children, he had a problem with those who didn't know respect. "We should get going before the sun gets any higher, and any hotter."
"Ah, but that's MY time to play." Ryo kidded, lightly jabbing his elbow against Sage's side. That got a small, knowing smile from his blonde friend.
"Okay. Lead on guys." She mused, giving a small smile. Looking down, she extended a hand to Willow. "Take my hand Will. I promise I won't drag you again this time."
"Promise?" That small voice slurred, eyes wide as they looked to Sage. They jerked to her when she tugged on Willow's hand, not letting her stare. Lord knows she did enough to be embarrassed, and probably discomfort Sage. She didn't need her sister doing it too
She smiled and nodded. "I SWEAR I won't drag you around." A smirk appeared. "Unless you try to get away."
~*~*~
Noon rolled around and the heat pressed down. It was mildly sweltering, beaded with humidity. It seemed the only one not uncomfortable to a degree was Ryo. He didn't seem fazed in the least. He seemed to be ENJOYING the heat. It escaped her except that he grew up here and was probably used to it. But that didn't explain why the others seemed more weighed down than he was. Cye seemed to be taking it almost the hardest actually. She just shook her head, wiped the sweat from her forehead, and gave a quick look to Willow to make sure the child was still with her.
There wasn't much more of this she could take. This was the first time she left the air-conditioned hotel on a weekend. The only time she was EVER out in heat this bad was on the short ride back to the hotel from school. Even that didn't last somewhere to three hours.
As they boarded the bus again, onto another sight, she fought against speaking up and keeping quiet. She wanted to rest more than just waiting to wherever they were going next. This was torture! She swiped a hand over her forehead and tried to ignore the presence of Willow's head as it tiredly leaned against her shoulder.
After a minute, she resisted the urge to move away from the added heat source. As she looked from the window and stole the shorter girl a glance, her lips pressed together in indecision. She didn't want to seem like she could order the others about by suggesting she wanted to cool it a while. She was being lead around by them and taking things in during the walk.
But she was getting hungry and thirsty and her feet were killing her. She could use a break longer than ten minutes...fifteen at the max depending on their next destination. This couldn't continue. If only they could find a place to hide from the heat for a while...or find something that could cool them down!
A smile suddenly sprouted as she snuck a few subtle glances around the seats with her more than gracious hosts. How could she've forgotten? It was intended to pay them back for making them take their precious time and invest it in her. And she knew the main thing about guys...being adamant about acting cool was the same with their love for food. And she knew Kento was twice as bad.
"Will," She softly murmured, bringing a hand to the dark hair, "I need you to move for a brief moment. Okay?" The girl did as was requested and tiredly leaned against the back of the seat, looking like she wanted to fall asleep.
Twisting in the seat, she immediately caught Kento and Cye's eyes from behind her. Rowen and Sage sat in the seat across her, Ryo sharing another with an elderly woman. "Hey guys." She quietly announced. Kento quickly reached over and gave Ryo's arm a small pat. Rowen nudged Sage, since he was closer to hear, before giving his attention. Feeling all their eyes, fighting the subconscious urge to look down and fiddle with something, she took a steadying breath. "Know of any ice cream places nearby? I'm hungry and could use a cool-down."
Kento leaned closer and propped an arm on the metal bar above the top of the seat with a wide smile. "Epiphany...you're talking my language."
"Mine too!" Rowen called, a grin on his face. Sage seemed the only one barely paying attention.
She couldn't help but grin at the look on Rowen's face. It was like she just announced something he couldn't resist. The markings of a smirk touched her lips. Maybe she was. "Well then? Anyone know where to go?"
"I do." Kento answered. She gave a nod and leaned against the window, feeling tired. This was so much effort, and adding the heat, was more than what she was used to dealing with. But she found a way to pacify everyone and hopefully mend a few more bridges. What was that saying about a man's stomach and food?
~*~*~
Before she knew it, the bus stopped at a small mini-mall and the seven departed. She grabbed Willow's hand as they entered glass doors and looked around with wide eyes. The ceiling was so tall! So far, they only stuck to the more non-confined tourist places, but she had a feeling they were heading here sooner or later. Kento and Rowen eagerly took the front as she trailed behind Sage and Cye, Ryo graciously offering to keep pace.
"Hey you two!" Ryo shouted to Kento and Rowen, fighting a grin. "Don't go running off and getting LOST!" He found a few unknown pairs of eyes on him from the loud outburst and looked down, feeling a little self-conscious. The mall was very busy, as was custom for a Sunday, and he didn't want to spend a bunch of time trying to scour the area for those two. Not with so many other people to watch over. Despite the fact that the war was over and he didn't need to be the 'leader' anymore, Ryo found it a natural invitation to look after everyone and make sure everything was going smoothly.
"Maybe you should've gotten those two a LEASH." She muttered, giving a grin. From ahead, Cye give a small snicker. Her grin widened at the small cheap shot, grateful the others didn't think she went to far. Things were still too touchy to kid around other than sarcastic comments with Rowen.
Ryo looked over with a wide grin. "Why didn't I think of that?" He wondered, casting those unique eyes back front. "We should stop at the pet store before leaving."
Willow's wide eyes looked up. "They have PETS here?" A wide grin split her face.
"Oh no Will...we're only staying long enough to get ice cream. And maybe a little bit of looking around. That'll be enough." She interceded.
"There a problem?" Ryo asked, giving a small, odd look.
She only avoided his eyes with a small grimace. "Willow loves pets." She quietly answered, trying to fight the pain in her voice. "Me...I'm not too keen anymore."
He blinked. How could ANYONE not like animals? "How come?" He almost queried, head tilting. He still owned White Blaze - well more to the point, MIA did - but he was still White Blaze's master. The others also liked the tiger and were friendly to animals.
She sighed and looked to the flooring, feeling her steps slow. Visions of a small Chihuahua licking her face, barking as she fooled around... Miguel...it was a common name in Spain. She was really too young to think up something more clever...
A bitter, wistful smile appeared. "I had a dog when I was five. He was a Christmas present; only a puppy. Father got rid of him when we moved a little after I turned twelve." The bitterness burned her throat. She harshly swallowed and turned her gaze as far away as possible to not shame herself.
That was another reason she hated traveling and resented her father. He took her only dog to the animal shelter two weeks before they left Spain. That dog, having been with her since she was an only child, was like family. It was one of the holes in her heart that refused to heal, just forgotten.
Ryo didn't know what to do or say, so kept silent and looked forward. He blinked in surprise to find Sage's silent gaze looking to the girl beside him. Their eyes briefly met, before Sage looked back up front without a word.
Ryo's eyes narrowed a little, wondering what was going on in his friend's mind. How much did Sage hear? Was he purposely listening? It was an odd concept. His head shook, swishing that shoulder-length black hair. He knew Sage's background, but very little on his views over Epiphany. Except one distinct feeling. Sage didn't like Epiphany very much. One didn't need to be psychic to know THAT.
By the time they reached the food court, she forced herself to bypass anger, resentment, sadness, and tears. She was NOT going to be anything but grateful and happy on a memorable day such as this. Thinking of things she couldn't change wasn't going to do anything but make her miserable. AGAIN.
She took a deep breath and looked at the choices...finding half the list in Japanese, the other half thankfully in English. She breathed a sigh of relief and gave a small smile. She was glad most public places held language in mind when they made menu boards. With a quick look, she found the other five with gazes riveted on the left side.
She smirked. "Pick whatever you want guys." They all looked to her, a few cluelessly blinking. The smile widened. "I'm paying." A hand reached down and withdrew a good-sized wad of Yen, giving it a brief wave before being safely deposited in the same pocket.
"You don't need to do that Epiphany." Cye answered, shaking his head. "I'm okay with paying for myself."
Sage nodded, evenly gazing at her. "We're quite competent to pay for ourselves."
She blinked at his attitude, a little breezier than Cye's gentle dejection. Her mouth opened and snapped shut before she could find words to placate his attitude. "I...I didn't say you WEREN'T." She quickly muttered, blinking. They locked eyes and she - once again - almost forgot what she was talking about. She gave a small, sunny grin and hoped he would stop looking at her like she was still a snob. "But I DID say I'd pay you five back for offering to show me around the city. This is my way of thanking you."
"Well bI for one am NOT going to question you!" Kento announced, breaking the tension. "ANYTHING?" A hand fumbled over his chin in a thoughtful pose. She smiled at Kento's exuberance, knowing he wouldn't mind. It seemed he thought about food more than the normal teenager.
Rowen stopped next to Sage and casually slung an arm over his shoulders. "Yea Sage, don't look a gift horse in the mouth." Rowen joked. Sage gave his friend a raised brow, that visible eye minutely amused, before shrugging the arm off and looking to the board.
She gave a small, embarrassed smile. "But um..." Hands twisted together in discomfort, "someone's going to have to handle the money." She felt like nervously laughing when almost all of them looked her way. She avoided their eyes and looked to the ground with a weak smile. "I don't normally pay for myself." She had no clue how the monetary system of this country worked. Or how the ratio differed.
A hand lightly patted her shoulder, relieving her of discomfort, and she looked up.
Cye gave a friendly smile. "That's okay Epiphany. We can handle it."
She exhaled relief and matched his smile. After that whole fiasco, she looked to the board and helped Willow pick something out. As she picked something, a small niggling in the back of her mind said not one called her by her nickname...even though she told them friends called her that.
~*~*~
All seven crowded around a large, round table, too preoccupied to talk. She was actually glad everyone picked something relatively expensive and not cheap, just to placate saving her money. She didn't mind spending more, they deserved this for putting up with three hours of heat and humidity just for her.
Kento and Rowen were one of the few who ordered more than just an ice cream treat. To her surprise, Rowen ate about as much as Kento did. She marveled at how well he packed it all away. As she leaned down to get another bite of her banana split, she sent a small, envious glare his way.
There was never a day when she didn't curse her figure. She hoped it was just the baby fat that would evaporate as she grew older. Not to mention her short height would up a few inches. She HATED being so short and - what she figured - chubby! Her face was her only good feature. The little bit of receding baby fat rounded it out to make it look cute, but not beautiful. She had a waist, mostly from those cursed wide hips, but she thought it looked like someone pushed her in from both sides and she went out instead of up. She HATED it!
She cast a small look to Willow. The girl ate with ordered grace, but physically resembled her very little. She was short yes...but almost every part of her body was thin to the point of being malnourished. But she ate like a horse. She was just blessed with a fast metabolism. Course, she was also TEN. Her body would change, and maybe gain a little weight when she hit puberty.
When Willow finished her dish, she stood to go help her throw it away. Yes Willow was very capable of throwing away her own empty dishes, but this was a busy, crowded mall and she knew things would happen. Willow's attention would immediately be directed to something and off she went. Or someone would try and get too close to her or visa versa.
Though the young girl didn't know the meaning of the word strangers, some people just didn't like their personal space being invaded. Some people were more than mean to a person who didn't know how to defend themselves. She wasn't too worried about the physical, it was the verbal lashing Willow could get that would hurt her. People, of ANY age, could be cruel.
Keeping an almost Siamese twin distance to her sister, she helped Willow throw everything away through the shutter and smiled. So far so good. She was happy that Willow behaved today. There weren't too many odd comments like there normally were. The most she ever talked was to ask about the places they visited to, or where they were going next.
Part of her was glad Willow asked so many questions...it kept her from having to do it. She was a guest, and didn't want to make too big a pest out of herself. She was just thankful that none really seemed to mind Willow's presence. After the initial twist was past, even Sage seemed a little tolerant of Willow to some small degree.
Looking back to the table found a startling discovery. During her musings, Willow wandered back to the table without her. Except she didn't stop at the table they were sitting at. The thin girl stopped at the table a few over and was currently poking a guy's shoulder. When he turned, she gave a large, friendly smile. "Hi." She loudly announced.
Her lips pressed together, eyes widening and throat tightening. Adrenaline rushed and she moved around a few people in her way and wound around the tables to get to her sister before an incident happened.
"Can I HELP you kid?" The youth asked, none too politely.
Willow smiled. "My name's Willow. What's yours?" She asked, leaning on his shoulder.
The man gripped an arm and pushed her away. She was mere inches from his face. "Hey kid, where are your parents?" He asked, giving a disapproving look.
Willow, not seeing his look, only smiled. "My daddy's at work with my cousin. My mommy decided to stay home at the hotel and be lazy. I'm here with my sister and her five friends." She gaze a wide grin and leaned closer, as if she had an important secret to tell. "I think she LIKES one of her friends too."
The guy raised an eyebrow and pushed her away again, a little more roughly than the last time. "That's great kid, but I don't really CARE."
She stopped directly behind Willow and clamped a hand over the blabbering girl's mouth. "I'm sorry sir." She muttered, face blazing red. She fought to swallow down shame and embarrassment. "My sister is a little...erratic." She gave an apologetic smile and suddenly knew that bringing Willow was a VERY bad idea...
He stared at Willow for a split second in the eye and grinned. "Now I get it...you're a retard, aren't you?" He asked, suddenly looking like he was talking to someone inferior.
It all happened in the span of a second, or what seemed that short. Anger flared, she saw red and the haze covered her vision and all reason. She heard Willow gasp at the known word, having heard it before, and a fist clenched. With aim and point blank range, it flew with blinding speed and socked the guy across the face. She hit bone and pain shot through her knuckles. But it didn't register as she glared, matching his.
Her jaw clenched, feeling the entire cafeteria look at her. The hum died, many shocked at the sudden action. "She's not a retard! She's got DOWN SYNDROME you bakayaro!" She loudly grit out, the injured fist clenching again. "You got a PROBLEM with that?!"
The guy glared, one hand rubbing his cheek, when his eyes jerked above her.
"Hey buddy, no trouble now. We're just going to leave."
"A bit of advice...BUDDY." The guy spat, standing with everyone else at the table. His friends were giving her sister, and the guy behind an angry glare. "You should put a LEASH on that dog of yours. And put the retard in an institution!" The trio left and walked away, a few laughing.
She bristled, angry and insulted tears forming. Her mind slowly regained its former use and she lightly cradled the hurt hand. "I'm sorry..." She whispered. She turned with a MORE than ashamed, downcast look and gently ushered Willow's form back to the table. The girl was sniffling, fighting back tears. As soon as she sat down, Willow nearly launched into her arms and cried.
"Oh Epi!" She sobbed, loud words muffled against her shoulder. "That guy was MEAN to me. Why was he MEAN to me?!"
She sighed, feeling chagrined tears cloud her eyes. THIS was what she was afraid of. Taking Willow into public settings with people who saw through her childlike façade, seeing into her mental retardation, who could say such cruel words. She tried to protect Willow so much from the world's brutality, but she couldn't fight off EVERYONE.
With another sigh, feeling like mother and not sister, her chin rested on Willow's shoulder, a hand rubbing her back.
The five looked to each other wide-eyed, uncomfortable and uneased at this situation. But it turned on a few light bulbs to those who wondered about the young girl. It made sense.
They couldn't believe the scene! A few wondered if they should get Willow from harassing the guy, but wondered if she would listen. She seemed to listen to only her family, if not being outwardly friendly to everyone. When Epiphany swiftly interceded, they figured she would apologize like she constantly did and pull the child away. Had they known it would've turned out like that they wouldn't have sat idle! Never had they seen such raw anger and hatred, along with protection, on another person's face! Epiphany was stronger than she looked.
It was Kento who found the ability to walk first and be the one to come to her 'rescue'. He knew the guy was angry for getting hit, but the remarks were uncalled for. He glared at the guy's back before directing Epiphany back and taking his seat. Afterward, he stared at the table and drew a nervous, nonsense pattern on the top, still shocked.
Rowen's eyes couldn't tear away from the scene in front of him. He always wondered what was up with the kid when they first met. She didn't seem all there, but he passed it off to be a child's attention span. Children were more amused by little things than adults. But...Down Syndrome? It all made sense. The slur to her words, the overly happy attitude... She was only acting as she thought was normal. No WONDER she approached everyone like they were her friends. She certainly didn't know any better. He read about Down Syndrome in one of the books he owned a while ago...but never had to deal with it until now. His lips thoughtfully pursed.
Cye and Ryo looked at each other, eyes wondering what to do now. What did they say to break through this sudden barrier? The tension was so thick that it felt unbidden to speak. How did they handle this? Epiphany was surely capable enough of calming the child, but how did they handle her? She appeared to've forgotten all about them as she rubbed that injured hand over Willow's back. Cye's lips pressed together with want to say something, while Ryo's mouth screwed into a small grimace...mind trying to process possible scenarios.
Sage continued to stare at the girl, seeing a dramatic change than what he was used to. He was only around the silent, apologetic, cold side of her persona. To see such a protective, angry side stunned him, even if he didn't outwardly show it. He cast a subtle glance to his friends and found them as agitated as he was. He didn't really intend on saying anything, since Epiphany put them in this situation. She wasn't watching Willow with an 'eagle eye' as she put, and it got both girls in trouble.
Sage leaned back in the chair and stared at the ceiling, calming his mind to loosen the unsteady emotions. Staying level was the key to getting past this and he wasn't going to let this faze him. But his mind was thoughtful as it fit the puzzle pieces of the child together. He wondered about her, not knowing why she acted like she did. Now he had his answer.
Leaning forward with another scan around the table, he checked his watch, and gracefully stood. "I think we should conclude this for now." He evenly announced, catching eyes. They gave a small nod and looked across the table. Sage did so as well and a brow rose at Epiphany's hand. "And take you to a hospital to get your hand bandaged." Skin scraped off the knuckles, and a little bit of blood ran down her hand. The back of her palm was already starting to swell.
She looked to the injured hand and slightly grimaced. The aftermath was still flowing through her veins and she didn't feel the full extent of the pain yet. She knew she would later...and fully regret slugging that guy come Monday. She was right handed, and of course hit with the same hand. It would be too bruised up to easily hold a pencil.
"I'd rather not go to a hospital." Eyes looked away into the cafeteria, finding a few people still staring. Her eyes quickly diverted to the floor. "There're got medical supplies at the hotel. I can be take care of it there."
They looked to each other, silently communicating. After a bit, looking at everyone, Ryo gave a decisive nod. "We'll come with you and help. We have a small record of injuries ourselves." He gave a mysterious smile.
With a heavy stare to the table, she gave a silent nod and slowly helped Willow to her feet. Quickly kneeling, she looked the teary-eyed girl dead on. A small, brave smile pasted on her face. "Hey now Willy...we're going back home okay?" A hand brushed away bangs against the girl's eyes. Her false smile widened. "Think you can be brave till we get home?" She quietly asked, mentally praying Willow would perk up on the way back. With a silent nod, a sniff, and a hand wiping the tears away, Willow agreed. "That's my baby sister." She praised, giving a small pat to her head. "You can't let that bad man get to you."
Willow gave a smile, as though the incident were passed already. "What's a...bakayaro Epi?" She slowly asked, sounding the word out.
She smiled wider and stood. "You'll know when you're older." She vaguely murmured, extending her uninjured hand.
Harshly swallowing, she looked across the way and found all eyes. They were intense, just like they were during that first month in school. They were also filled with emotions she couldn't figure out. Dropping her gaze to the table, she harshly swallowed again. The mortification and disgrace hit full force and she wanted to fidget, but didn't want to let go of Willow's hand, or move her injured one too much. "Let's go."