For a Smile

by Lune Nightingale

In the book once again, the twins and other seishi of various beast gods are forced to face new trials. But how can they fight something they don't know anything about?

3. Shadows of Yesterday

Chapter Three: Shadows of Yesterday

~ Hold my breath as I wish for death

Oh please God, wake me ~

The sun was hidden deep behind the veil of dark gray clouds as heavy drops of rain fell heedlessly upon anything it could. One in particular was standing beneath the downpour staring up at the sky not even blinking. Short chestnut brown hair was slowly being plastered to her head, as her green eyes seemed to stare past the clouds that hid the cerulean sky beneath them. She knew she should go to school, but she felt this pain in her chest that made her wish she didn't have to.

Parting her lips she watched images flash through her eyes as she whispered one word softly to the sky. "Umiyame…" As the word slipped over her tongue she felt her eyes go wide. It was her deepest secret. One that she never planned to share with anyone. Not then and not ever. Lowering her gaze she caught sight of the boy Koutoku as he walked quietly toward their school with his umbrella in hand.

Tilting her head to the side she watched him closely knowing full well that it wasn't Shawn. He was so sad and solemn. Shawn just seemed angry and thoughtless. Without thinking she sprinted after him and threw her arms about his neck smiling brightly. "Ohayo Koutoku-san!"

In surprise, Koutoku blinked and looked over his shoulder at her. "O-ohayo… Tsukikage-san…" He watched her release him and allow a pout to cross her porcelain features at his words.

"Mou… You could call me Siân… Hearing you call me that is like picturing Shun-kun calling me that. It's not a healthy sight cause he doesn't show that sort of respect to anyone…" Grinning softly she didn't seem to even notice the rain that was gradually soaking her uniform.

Giving a warm smile, Koutoku moved toward her and hovered the umbrella over her in order to halt the rain. "Gomen ne, Siân-san… Ano… You're going to catch cold." Frowning in a disapproving manner he brushed her damp hair from her face. "I'd hate to see you get sick."

Giggling to herself she merely gave him her best smile before taking his hand in hers. "I'm fine… Demo… You looked so sad. I didn't like seeing that. You know… you may not know me that well… but just as I'm here for Shun-kun… I'm also here for you."

At her words, Koutoku's eyes went wide in surprise. Other than Miaka, no one showed him such heartfelt kindness. It literally took his breath away. "I appreciate that…"

Wrapping an arm about his shoulders gently she leaned in and whispered into his ear not noticing the blush he was developing from her closeness. "I'll work on Shun-kun… Don't worry so much. He's a hard one to reach… He thinks he's dangerous and possessed."

Horror filled his expression as he turned to look at her again. "That's not true! Why does he think that?"

Tilting her head slightly, she wondered if she should tell him or not. Pressing a finger to her lips in thought she finally decided it would be no harm. "He has a Chinese character on his shoulder… Whenever he gets angry or loses his temper, it shines a bright blue…"

"Oh… I have that…" Self-consciously Koutoku placed a hand over his right shoulder and closed his eyes. "Tell me… It's normal for people to think he's evil for it… why don't you think that? You act as though it's normal…"

Giving an unsure laugh, she shook her head while looking at the ground. "You mean that everyone doesn't have one?" Koutoku watched her silently before cupping her chin in his hand and raising her green eyes to his.

"What's wrong?"

Biting her lower lip she fought the urge to cry at that moment. Unlike Shawn Shunkaku, Koutoku seemed to see straight through her. As if he knew everything about her even though he didn't. Closing her eyes she couldn't bear to look into those endless depths of blue any longer. "I'm not scared… not of him… not of you… but maybe I am… of myself…"

"Yourself?" Releasing her gently he continued to look down at her with questions in his eyes. He didn't want to hurt her, but he knew pent up hurt and secrets tended to destroy a person much like it destroyed his twin all those years ago.

"Hai… Promise me… You won't say anything… especially not to Shun-kun…" Koutoku nodded slowly after she opened her eyes to gaze at him intently.

"You have my solemn word."

"Arigauto…" Closing her eyes once more she thought hard concentrating on the burning feelings in her heart. In moments something etched across her forehead in bright green forming a Chinese character there. At the sight, Koutoku nearly fell backward.

"Genbu… You're a Genbu Seishi!" Cautiously reaching up he traced the character with a finger thinking on what it stood for. "It means… danger… or steep… You're… Umiyame…"

Giving a slow nod, her eyes opened to look at him quietly. The character vanished from her pale skin in moments and she once more looked like a normal teenager. "Yes… You are correct…"

"Demo… how did you know? When did you find out?"

"When I started taking martial arts classes with Shawn… One day while I was practicing at the age of eight… I felt something in my wrists hurting." Looking down at her hands, she pulled the coat sleeves of her uniform back and bent her hands downward. Making a labored sound she yelped as a long blade shot out from the backs of her wrists curling like claws. "That's… that's when I found out about these…"

Staring down at them in utter shock, Koutoku found himself at a loss for words. Not only was she a Genbu Seishi, she also had all of her powers in tact. "What about your memories… and your character?"

"I was fourteen when the symbol appeared. I was angry… because Shun-kun kept getting in fights and severely hurt at school… My memories are incomplete. I only know what I've seen in my dreams… just like Shun-kun…" In a blink of an eye the sharp blades retracted back into her arms out of sight. "I don't want to pressure him… I didn't know him in my past life… I don't remember any of the Suzaku Seishi really… nor the Seiryuu…"

"I understand… But thank you… it makes me feel better to know you understand… and that you've taken care of my Shun-chan…" Koutoku gave her a soft smile that spoke of thankfulness.

"It was my pleasure… demo…" Looking at him with concerned eyes she couldn't help but brush a hand lightly over his cheek. "What about you? Who took care of you Koutoku-san?"

Jumping back he accidentally pulled the umbrella away from her letting the rain cascade down upon her once more. "Ano…" For a long moment he just stared at her with wide eyes before reaching out and pulling her into his arms for a hug. Giving a dry sob he buried his head into the curve of her neck and closed his eyes.

It didn't surprise her. She could see the pain hidden in his eyes. Carefully she wrapped her arms about his shoulders and smiled softly. A gentle hand reached up to thread itself into his hair as her own eyes closed. "Ne, Koutoku-san… Let's skip today… That way I can get to know you! And I can treat you to lunch! Shun-kun loves my cooking… And… maybe… I can help you…"

Lifting his head to stare into her eyes he finally managed to nod. "Demo… what will Shun-chan think?" He couldn't help it. It was impossible for him to call his twin anything else.

"I'll tell him I wasn't feeling well. It's not far from the truth. I left after him because I felt sick. But until we get him used to you, it's better that he not know what we're doing…" Giving a warm smile she kept one arm about his shoulders. "Iku… ne?"

"Hai…" Koutoku smiled back softly and nodded his head. "Ano… call me Kou-kun?"

"Honto ni? Hai Kou-kun!" The rain began to fall even harder as they turned to head in the opposite direction of the school. She knew he needed someone and she'd be a total jerk not to help. After all, this was her brother's twin, making Koutoku a part of her beloved Shunkaku.

~*~

Deep indigo blue orbs glared scathingly at the clock resting on the wall just above the black board. Had he been able to control that strange weapon of his, he'd have ripped the offending object off of the wall for telling its deceiving lies. Snarling, he began to wrap his fingers on the desktop with an air of impatience. Where was she? She'd promised she soon follow him once she stopped feeling sick. Cringing at the thought of her turning ill, he moved his attention on to other things. It didn't help matters that the blonde girl and the crazy nut named Miaka kept turning to stare at him.

Placing a solemn glare onto his young features he toyed with the idea of yelling at them. If they turned to stare one more time he'd lay it in on them. Huffing slightly, his long dark blonde bangs rustled with his heavy breath. At that moment, the blonde turned to give him a wide-eyed look, which he returned with a venom filled scowl.

Turning quickly in her seat she clutched a hand over her heart trying to make the organ stop beating so roughly against her chest. Now she knew how he'd felt while she'd been his priestess. Looks like the one he just gave her were enough to deflate anyone. This sent a wave of remorse coursing through her veins for the ill way she had treated the younger twin. Giving a soft sigh, she turned to give Miaka a troubled look.

Turning wide golden brown eyes in Yui's direction, Miaka felt just as frustrated as her best friend. Suboshi was proving to be the biggest challenge either of them had ever faced. Even Taka, the reincarnation of Tamahome was having problems figuring out the cipher known as Shawn Shunkaku. Shaking her head, she directed her attention to the teacher that had started his lecture. She'd have to think about it later.

The hours seemed to drag on like years when the bell finally sounded informing them all that it was now lunch hour. Shoving back from his desk, he dug into his pockets in search of some money to call home. It wasn't like his brainiac sister to miss school. Heading for the door, he felt a hand light his shoulder. Turning sharply he caught sight of the girl with shoulder length blonde hair. "What?"

She took in a breath sharply then forced herself to smile. "I see your sister isn't here today. Why don't you join Miaka and I for lunch? Our college friends will be with us." Silencing her self for the time being she gave him a look of sheer hopefulness.

Grumbling under his breath he really didn't hear what she had asked. His mind was on his sister and her mysterious absent. "Sure… whatever. I have to call my sister first…"

Yui felt her heart pound in excitement at his words and couldn't help but smile at the boy fondly. "Great! Meet us out front then when you're finished!" Still smiling, the girl skipped off not noticing the look of puzzlement that sifted over his features.

"Girls are weird…" Feeling a line of perspiration cover his forehead he only managed to shake his head. Wordlessly he headed over to a pay phone and picked it up. Placing the receiver on his ear he paused in mid action. "Ah hell… What's our number?" Cursing under his breath he slammed the receiver down and headed for the main entrance. If he couldn't call her he was going to at least make a trip home to check on her.

Exiting the building, the fact that the blonde girl would be waiting out there for him had completely slipped his mind. In seconds he hand both arms latched onto and two giggling girls smiling up at him inanely. "Hey! Ready to go then? You're sister ok?" Miaka smiled brightly up at him not noticing the disturbed look on his face.

"Come meet our friends! Unfortunately, Kou-kun isn't here today so we'll have to make the best of who is here!" Yui also smiled up at him as they dragged the teen heedlessly toward a large group of college kids a few yards away. "Here he is guys! Shunkaku!"

All eyes lifted to see the boy with a look of impatient disgust on his face as he gazed from one girl to the other. Finally looking up at the group, Shunkaku made out a few familiar faces as Taka, Tasuki, and the pretty boy Hotohori. Resting a quick glare on the boy with long hair, he remembered how he'd kissed his sister. Be it on the hand or lips, it was unforgivable. Snarling slightly he moved his gaze to the others present that seemed just as familiar as those three.

Miaka grinned happily and pointed at them one by one. "You've already met my Taka, Tasuki and Hotohori! So… the one with deep violet hair is Nuriko, the one with light blue hair is Chichiri! Chiriko is in grade school and isn't allowed off campus. And since Mitsukake is working, he couldn't come along either." A pout briefly crossed her face before it faded into a wide smile.

Huffing slightly, he realized there was no way out of this. "Hn…" Staring at them intently he wondered why they were so familiar and why he felt so uneasy. They seemed nice enough. Looking at Nuriko again, he puzzled for a moment before bluntly speaking. "Are you a girl?"

The amiable smile faded from Nuriko's face as he gave a taut look at the younger twin. "That's not a very polite thing to ask."

Nope, the voice didn't help in distinguishing. Frowning, he was about to press the question further when the boy named Tasuki started to laugh uncontrollably. "This Shunkaku, would be a boy. Cross dresser… but a boy nonetheless."

At his words, Nuriko backhanded Tasuki slamming him effortlessly into a tree where he merely groaned in pain. "Heh… You deserved that Tasuki."

Blinking a bit nervously, Shunkaku took a subconscious step backward. "Scary…"

"Oh don't mind them! They're always like that, ya know!" Chichiri smiled happily with his eyes closed. "It's nice to meet you Shunkaku! Hope we don't scare you, ya know!"

Groaning inwardly, Shunkaku knew this would be a long lunch hour, and his beloved sister would have to wait. "Yeah… right…" Sighing softly he allowed Yui and Miaka to shove him along in the direction of the place they'd chosen to eat at. Silently in his head all he could think was 'why me?'

~*~

"Lunch was delicious Siân-san." Bright eyes of deep blue gazed warmly at the shorter figure with chestnut brown hair. A smile was etched over his young face causing her to light up like a light bulb. It was literally mind-boggling seeing that beautiful smile. Now if only Shunkaku would smile like that.

"I'm glad you approve!" Giving a wide smile the girl collected the dishes and carried them to the kitchen teetering slightly. Where she was an excellent cook, she lacked in house keeping skills. Shunkaku always had to help her.

Noticing her unsteadiness, Koutoku ran forward and opened the door for her. He didn't mind housework all that much. "Let me help you please. It's only fair that I do so."

Giving him a thankful smile she carefully placed the dishes in the sink and beamed at the boy. "You're so different from Shun-kun… No it's ok… I'll do them later. Why don't we go for a walk? I'm literally aching for the outdoors!"

Laughing softly, Koutoku nodded his head. "That sounds nice. At least the rain has stopped."

"Aw! I love rain!"

"Not if you are going to get soaked… You could get sick…" This brought about an arched brow and frown that spoke of his unspoken disapproval. It was so much like Shunkaku's.

Clapping a hand over her mouth she giggled softly nearly choking from her attempt to hold back. "You're adorable Kou-kun! That look is a carbon copy of Shun-kun! You two are so protective." Giving a wistful smile, she reached out and patted his head lightly. "I'd love to have you as a brother Kou-kun…"

Smiling back at her he hummed softly and tapped her nose lightly with his index finger. "And I would love to be your brother."

"Then that settles it! From now on you're my brother! Don't ever hesitate to come to me! I, Tsukikage Siân will do everything to make my beloved brother happy!" Her light yet serious words settled on his heart making it pound heavily in his chest.

It was the kindest thing he'd heard in all this lifetime. "I thank you… And in return… My dear little sister, I, Shiro Koutoku will always protect you." With all his might he returned her smile before pulling her into a gentle hug. "I see why Shun-chan is so protective of you. You're practically priceless…"

"Am I?" Looking up at him in surprise, she couldn't help but blink.

"Without a doubt. Now… let's head out for that walk, ne?" At his words she nodded fervently while trotting toward the door. Opening it she turned to smile at him looking anxious. "You're really excited aren't you?"

"Hai! I'm new to Japan! I want to see it! And what better way than to go with my wonderful brother who knows everything about this area?" Grinning she pulled him gently out the door and locked it before walking out in front of him and spinning in the tiny rays of sunlight. The air was heavy with humidity and it stuck to her like a second skin.

Laughing at her lightly, Koutoku shook his head. Indeed this girl was priceless. It was hard to believe that such a lively and happy person could have been a seishi in the universe of the four gods. "You really enjoy nature don't you?"

Nodding, the girl stopped in her dance to gaze at the other with wide green eyes. "Mochiron! I think it's very… I don't know… enchanting. Plus it gets my mind off of things that hurt…" A small frown etched over her smooth porcelain features causing Koutoku to gasp.

"Please don't look so sad…" Reaching out he brushed a hand lightly over her cheek in an attempt to cheer her up. "I want you to be happy just as Shun-chan wishes for you to be happy." Giving a gentle smile he turned to look down the road. "Why don't we go take a look at the Sakura trees?"

"Yeah! Sounds great! I've always wanted to see them…" It wasn't hard to brighten her mood, but it wasn't easy to touch her heart. Koutoku could see that. Beneath all the smiles and happy exterior, he knew she was hurting just as much as he was. Offering her an arm, she looped hers in his and they began to walk. For the most part it was a silent expedition, that is, until they reached the park.

Turning to enter the finely sculpted area, a person ran by quickly slamming into Siân knocking her to the ground. Gasping for breath as the wind was knocked out of her, she gazed up into crystal clear blue eyes that seemed colder than ice. Long strands of golden sunlight hair spilled from a loose ponytail at the nape of the girl's neck trailing over her dark blue blazer. "Watch where you're going!"

Jumping to her feet, the girl brushed off her matching pleated skirt while glaring at Siân whom was too stunned to get up. Koutoku could only watch in horror. It wasn't that he was shocked really; it was that he was embarrassed. "AYAME! What are you doing? Shouldn't you be in school?"

Turning the icy gaze to Koutoku, it instantly melted into a sweet smile complete with pout. "Nani? And aren't you also supposed to be in school Kou-kun?"

Moving uncomfortably he met her steady gaze that spoke of nothing less than adoration. "I wasn't feeling too well today, so I stayed home. But at least I don't make a habit of skipping like someone I know." Giving her a hard look he reached down to help up Siân that was still catching her breath. "Daijoubu Siân-san?"

"H-hai… Daijoubu…" Slowly her gaze shifted to the girl that was now glaring at her coldly. "Gomen ne… I'm Tsukikage Siân… I didn't mean to run into you."

Rolling her eyes she looked away with her arms crossed not really wanting to speak with the brunette. "Where'd you dig this girl up Kou-kun? She's just as fancy and polite as our parents. It's sickening…"

Koutoku groaned lightly and rubbed his temples in thought. "Siân-san… this is Tsumetai Ayame. She and I grew up together. Our families have worked together for years. She goes to a popular all girls' school not far from our school… That is… when she actually goes."

Giving him a curious look, Siân looked back at the girl with long blonde hair. It was painfully obvious she had a liking for Koutoku, and from the looks she was receiving, she may not live to see him again… Sighing softly she gave a slight nod. "A pleasure to meet you Tsumetai-san."

"Sure what ever. Kou-kun, I think I'll be transferring to your school…" Cold electric blue eyes scanned the other girl slowly to size her up before turning back to Koutoku and smiling sweetly. "Why don't I walk you home? Officially, school will be out in a matter of minutes!"

Blinking, Koutoku watched the bright smile spread over the blonde's China doll like face. It was irresistible to say the least. "H-hai…" Looking back at Siân as Ayame grabbed his hand, he gave an apologetic smile. "Gomen ne! I'll call you later!"

Before she could answer, he was gone. Taking a deep breath, she let it out in a sigh as a hand reached up to scratch the back of her head. That was strange to say the least. The strange thing was, that Ayame looked frighteningly familiar. So familiar in fact, that it made her skin crawl. Shivering at the thought she looked at the watch around her wrist. "Shoot! Shun-kun is going to KILL me!" Taking off into a dead run, she prayed to the heavens that she would make it home before her brother.

~*~

Deep blue eyes stared down at his watch impatiently while gritting his teeth. If it took any longer to get home he'd literally lose his mind. Snarling under his breath, he looked up the street he was walking on only to catch sight of dark green and black blur topped off with chestnut hair. Narrowing his eyes he took off after the person and smirked when he confirmed his suspicion.

Siân was running desperately down the sidewalk in an attempt to make it home. She knew she was in for it already, she didn't need him to also know she hadn't been 'home' per se. Breathing heavily she didn't see the person pass her by then stop directly in front of her. Colliding with the semi solid body she gave a startled cry and began to fall backward.

Reaching out, he grabbed her hand and yanked her back up gently causing her to once more collapse against him. Watching her quietly as she panted for air, he couldn't help but smirk. "You were sick huh?"

Looking up in fear she met the taunting eyes of dark blue as they danced with mischief. "Ano… Shun-kun… Gomen…. GOMEN NESAI!" Not really expecting herself to be so loud, she clapped a small hand over her mouth and looked down at the concrete.

"Oi… Do you know my day was a living hell because you played hooky? That brat Miaka and her idiot friend Yui conned me into going to lunch with them… Do you have ANY idea what their friends are like? Well… Think on those two, then multiply them by at least five and you'll have the answer!" Shunkaku whined in a miniscule way while giving her the evil eye. There was no way she was getting out of this one.

Blinking a few times, she tried hard to fight the urge to laugh. Someone had cornered her Shunkaku into going to lunch with them? That was just rich. "You actually socialized? Are you sick?" Reaching up she placed the back of her hand to his forehead.

Pulling her hand away he gave a snort. "Hmph. Brat… I had no choice. I didn't particularly want to get kicked out of school just yet." Frowning he turned and started to walk on without her. He didn't have to take the abuse even if she was important to him.

"Shun! I'm sorry!" Running forward she did something she'd never down before. In a brief instant she threw her arms around his neck and pulled him into an embrace.

He was stunned. No, he was more than stunned. Turning his head slightly he could feel the warmth burning his cheeks. It wasn't often that they got close like this, and it had never happened in public before. Moving uneasily, he managed to pull from her grasp and hurry away on to their home. He didn't want to deal with this. "Whatever. Just get home and stop dawdling."

Watching after him with her mouth slightly gaping, she didn't know what to do, or even what to think. Her behavior had shocked even her, but the way he reacted made her heart break. "Shun…. Shunkaku…" Wrapping her arms about herself she closed her eyes before running in the opposite direction. Why? Why did he have to be so cold to her? What had she done wrong? Choking on a sob she ran blindly into the crowds of people going about their business for the afternoon.

Was she such a horrible person? Yes… she was… But wasn't that why she was trying so hard? Trying to make up for who she had been? Cringing at the thoughts she continued to run even though the pain in her lungs grew with each gulp of humid air. The sky was clouding over again, and the rain was near once more. Rain… like today… like then…

The darkened sky poured forth the heavy rain beating down the dry dirt path as well as the crackling grass. It was monsoon season after the long drought. The earth needed the water, but the people knew that many things came with this weather. On the now muddied path, a lone figure walked with a pack slung carelessly over their shoulder. Rain seeped into the elaborate clothing of dark green, black and white and fresh mud was now caking onto the knee high leather boots.

Stopping in mid stride, the person spun about as a bright green light flared out in the darkness casting an eerie glow on the surrounding areas. Wide eyes of pine green watched silently as a figure formed in the air then collapsed to the ground with a thud. Arching a brow, the person turned with the full intention of ignoring the other's presence.

Sitting up with a soft moan of pain, the new girl in strange clothing looked up to the other with fear in her dark blue eyes. "Ano… Sumimasen! Can you help me?" She was scared and she didn't know where she was, and from the looks of things, this was the only person near for as far as one could see in the rain-shrouded darkness.

Glancing over their shoulder, the cold green eyes gazed at the woman on the ground stoically. "Why should I?"

"Oh please!" The girl with black hair managed to struggle to her feet praying that the other would take some sort of pity on her. "Please! I don't know where I am… Can't you help me?"

Arching a brow slightly while gazing through wet chestnut bangs, the person gave a snort. "You're in Hokkan. The empire of the north." With that, the person began to walk away leaving the girl alone in the dark. At the sight of being left, the girl began to sob looking around in fear.

Now… I know how she felt. A heavy drop fell onto her head seeping into her hair. Soon, the drops multiplied drowning her form in a heavy rain. Did… did I help her? Closing her eyes she felt her feet slip out from beneath her as she fell to the ground. Mud and water soaked her clothes, as she made no move to get up. It didn't matter anymore. It just didn't matter.

Stopping, the person in dark colored clothing turned back to the faint figure silhouetted against the dark sky and snorted. Dropping the bag to the ground, long strides were taken in the other's direction. Reaching her, the person knelt before her still staring at her icily. "Get up… I'll take you to the city…"

Looking up in surprise, the sad eyes of blue filled with new tears as she threw her arms about the other's neck in happiness. "Oh thank you!"

At the move, the person instantly drew away from the girl and frowned. "Don't do that. What's your name?"

Blinking in surprise, the girl stared up at the person wondering if they were a he or she. "Takiko… My name is Okuda Takiko… And… and you?"

Arching a brow again, the person in green helped Takiko to her feet then picked the bag back up. "Umiyame… Let's go…"

So… that's how she met her… the priestess of Genbu… Moaning softly, Siân felt her body tense up in the cold of the rain that fell on her heedlessly. Not that she cared. She had nothing to get up for. Closing her eyes she allowed the cold to seep into her body nipping at her consciousness that soon faded away. All that she could see was darkness and for some reason, she welcomed it.

~*~

Heavy eyelids strained to open but failed miserably. She felt like she was on fire, yet she shivered as though she were cold. It was a strange feeling, and to be honest, she didn't like it. Swallowing with much difficulty she forced herself to remain still and listen. She wasn't outside anymore, and from the feel of it, she was now in a bed beneath a much-wanted mound of blankets.

"Nani? You found her passed out in the park? What do you think happened?" The female voice present inquired gently as a cold cloth was pressed to her burning forehead. "Do you think she'd been there long? I hope not… she's running a horrible fever."

"I know… I don't know why she was there… It scared me. Do you know the Tsukikage's phone number? Or even where they live? I'm sure they're worried about her…" This time the voice was masculine and spoke gently to the other.

"No I don't… But Koutoku might… He and Siân seem to be getting along pretty well. Unlike he and Shunkaku…" Sighing miserably, the girl leaned back in her chair beside the bed while rubbing her forehead. Thinking about the voice, Siân finally placed a face. It was that Miaka girl. "Or maybe she'll wake up soon…"

"I don't like this…" Thinking for a moment the boy shuffled about nervously. "Ano… Miaka-chan… she was muttering someone's name when I found her. It was Takiko's…"

"Takiko? Oh my! How do you think she knew her Taka?" Miaka seemed surprised, and to say the least, so was Siân. How did these two know Lady Takiko? "Do you think Suboshi told her about the priestess of Genbu?"

Suboshi… That was a Seiryuu Seishi. Perhaps they meant Shunkaku, but she wasn't sure. He didn't talk much about his former life, and in truth she figured he denied it. Giving a soft sigh she felt her consciousness waver once more. She really should force herself to wake, but she didn't have the will to do so. Sinking back into fitful sleep, her mind continued to remind her of the past that she wanted so desperately to change.

Umiyame stood silently outside of the door to the inn within the city walls of Hokkan. Deep chestnut bangs hung over her right eye as she tilted her head downward. Her hair was cut short, and the clothes she wore were strikingly masculine, from the green traditional Chinese shirt, to the long black vest with elegant designs in white. It was meant to look like a boy.

Women weren't respected in that day and age, and it was just easier to pretend to be what you weren't. And it was more than well known that Umiyame was a force to be reckoned with. Lifting her head slowly she turned to look at the door as it opened with her sharp green eyes. Stepping out was the priestess Takiko dressed in dry clothing. "Lady Takiko…"

"Ohayo Umiyame!" The woman smiled at her Genbu Seishi brightly before looking at the horizon and giving a soft sigh. "It's a beautiful morning ne?"

"Nan de mo…" Looking away from the priestess, Umiyame let her eyes fall on the person approaching them. Long platinum hair fell into a loose ponytail with long bangs shading the vibrant silver like eye that remained uncovered. "Hikitsu…"

"If it isn't Umiyame!" Smirking mildly, the man gave her an appraising look. "You haven't changed." Turning to Takiko he gave a brighter smile. "You must be the Lady Takiko that Umiyame spoke of in her message." Bowing to her reverently, the man gently kissed her hand. "I am the Genbu Seishi, Hikitsu… Hopefully between the three of us… we'll find the other five soon."

Giving a derisive snort, the girl Umiyame lifted herself away from the building to glare at Hikitsu. "Do what you like... but I'm not helping anyone…" With that said, Umiyame walked away from the two with wide eyes.

"Ano… She'll come around Lady Takiko… She's just had it really rough…" Hikitsu sighed softly and watched Umiyame walk away. It was obvious that Takiko was already attached to the stoic warrior even though she proved to be rather difficult to deal with.

~*~

Shunkaku sat silently at his desk trying to concentrate on the book that lay before him bearing many mathematical problems that made his brain churn in disgust. Give him letters any day, but the mere thought of numbers made him want to rip his short deep blonde hair out of his head. Siân was the same. They both hated math. Sighing softly he looked to the window at the disappearing sunlight. It was getting late and she still hadn't returned home. It was really starting to bother him. Especially since he was well aware of the fact that his earlier behavior had hurt her severely.

Leaning back in his chair he gazed up at the ceiling while tapping the eraser end of the pencil against the book. Had she run off because of him? It didn't help matters that it had started pouring again not long after he'd reached their home. His father wasn't home, and that left him all alone in the empty three-bedroom home. As he moved to look at the book again, an irritating ring caught his attention.

Grumbling under his breath, he finally got up from his desk in search of the ringing phone. Upon finding it he wondered who could be calling when they'd only moved in not even a week ago. Lifting it off the cradle he rested the object to his ear and spoke in an irritated manner. "Hello?"

"Shunkaku-san? This is Shiro Koutoku, do you remember me?" The voice was soft, but it was easy to detect the hope buried beneath the polite air.

"Hn…"

This brought about a soft laughter that he found somewhat comforting and extremely familiar. He didn't want to believe it, but this boy most definitely was the one in his visions. The one that he knew that he adored, but couldn't bring himself to acknowledge. "Is Siân home?"

"No… And I don't know where she is."

"Aren't you worried?"

"Of course I'm worried!" Growling under his breath he toyed with the idea of hanging up on the boy that looked so much like himself.

"I see… I'll leave you be then. Could you ask her to call me later?"

"I'll think about it…" Before the other could respond, Shunkaku hung up the phone with a deep frown on his youthful face. He didn't know what he was more jealous over, Siân spending time with Koutoku, or Koutoku spending time with Siân. It was far too complicated and he really didn't want to mess with it. Walking to the door he pulled his black coat off a peg and slipped it on. It was getting colder, and that worried him. Siân wasn't wearing a jacket when he saw her. Shaking his head he walked out the door locking it behind him.

"Where are you Siân?" Sighing softly he walked down the road he'd last seen her on gazing about hopefully through the light drizzle and fading light. Slowing his pace he prayed to himself that he would find her soon.

"Shunkaku?" Turning about slowly, deep blue eyes met deep aqua. "What are you doing out so late? I thought you'd be at home taking care of your sister…" Yui gave him a soft smile as one of her small hands brushed sandy blonde hair out of her face.

It wasn't that he hated Yui, but for some reason being near her made his heart hurt. He'd seen her before. That much was true, but it seemed as though his heart didn't want to remember her. "Hn. She wasn't home when I got there." Cutting off short, he shifted uneasily wanting to leave her presence as soon as possible.

"Oh no, I hope that she's ok. Do you have any idea where she is?" The sandy blonde looked at him with wide eyes that wore a mask of worry that he knew wasn't genuine.

"If I knew where she was, do you think I'd still be looking for her?" Surprisingly, his voice stayed even and calm even though the expression on his smooth façade gave away the irritation and anxiety he was feeling at the moment. "I don't have time to talk thank you. Go find someone else to bug…"

Blinking, Yui could only gape as he turned and walked away from her. Why was he being so cold to her? Was not his confession of love truthful the last time she had seen him? He'd given his life for her. With that much devotion, wouldn't it have carried over? She watched him sadly never letting her gaze leave him as he disappeared from sight. Somehow, a single tear made it's way slowly down her porcelain like cheek unbidden.

~*~

It was like being lost in a fog. The memories seemed to swirl about her like the churning currents of the Pacific Ocean. Faces and voices loomed about her consciousness like an ever-present veil of sorrow. So many reasons kept her from wanting to see the whole picture, but it was quite apparent that someone had other things in mind. Just as the ocean has an undertow, the mind does as well, for the stream of conscious thought is much like a river. You'll never step in the same patch of water twice due to its incessant flow.

Giving in to the tug on her mind, Siân allowed the memories to course through her very being stripping away the blanket of security she had worked so hard to build. Now she knew why her brother didn't wish to remember his past as a Seishi. She didn't want to her self. Mentally she sighed as the darkness and fog swept over her and faded into a worn memory of days long past.

Perched high in the tree, Umiyame watched the clouds above waiting for the first sign of snow. Where in the southern reaches of Hokkan it rained, all the others received snow. Snow… it turned everything a glistening white. Snorting at the thought, her deep green eyes caught sight of a flake drifting to the ground below. It was just a fake cover up to her. Nothing could be pure like the blanket of white frozen liquid.

Trailing her eyes down the small path leading to the nearby village, she caught sight of the tall man with long platinum hair and a black patch over his right eye. There wasn't really anything wrong with Hikitsu's eye; it was just a way of hiding the mark of Genbu that literally appeared there on top of the eye.

Scratching her head lightly, she shoved the long strands of chestnut out of her gaze and turned to look at the Lady Takiko talking with one of the locals. The priestess was just so young and clueless in the female warrior's eyes. She didn't know pain or how to take care of her self unlike Umiyame. The war with Kutou had taken many lives, including the lives of her parents. Perhaps the hate that spurred from that incident was what changed her mind about helping the priestess.

Not really one to seek revenge, she still believed that Kutou needed to be put back in it's place. Sighing softly she leaned fully against the trunk of the tree and gazed over the horizon. Only four of the celestial warriors had been found, and to their advantage, the warrior Hatsui was a high-ranking general in the Hokkan army. This gave them greater access and resources to anything that was needed.

The other that they had found happened to be her cousin. One she hadn't seen in many years. The vivacious blonde was the warrior Uruki and had eyes as clear and blue as the cerulean sky. They got along enough, but the girl had a tendency to tease Umiyame over her boyish features. She went as far as trying to set up a date for the priestess and Umiyame to go on. That resorted in one unconscious warrior and a blushing priestess. Uruki had gone too far. Now here they were in a small northern village in search of another warrior.

Sighing softly a soft rustle caught her attention. Turning her head she gazed into the woods bordering the village and narrowed her eyes. Dropping to the ground with the grace of a large cat, she slinked her way into the brush searching for the disturbance. As she finally decided to give up she felt the hair on the back of her neck prickle slightly sending her spinning about one blade protruding from her left wrist that connected with an arrow slicing it in half.

"Not bad kid. Want to dodge this?" The bravado in the young teen's voice echoed in her ears as she raised her fists, both bearing the long arched silver blades sprouting from her wrists. As the boy with deep amethyst hair pulled back his bow she noticed the green light that began to ebb off of him in waves. He was a Genbu Seishi.

Giving a light smirk she crossed her arms over her chest closing her eyes. At that moment multiple ice arrows collided into the transparent barrier of ice that appeared before her. At the sight, the boy gaped not noticing the look of irritation that crossed the girl's face. "Hikitsu! Stay out of this! If I want to kick this little arrogant brat's butt, I can do so without you intervening!"

"It's not a question of your abilities Umiyame… Merely a cautionary move to keep you from hurting him. I knew by the look on your face that you were aware of whom he is…"Stepping out from behind a tree, the man glued his silver like eye on the boy holding his bow tightly in his fists.

Frowning intensely, the boy turned his iridescent green eyes to the girl before him. "Who do you think you guys are?" Shivering slightly, he didn't like the look he received from her as she scanned his lithe form and dark tan skin.

"You think Genbu actually picked this child to be a warrior? That's almost as believable as Uruki…" Giving a snort, she turned back to the archer and frowned. "I am Umiyame of the Genbu Seven. This is Hikitsu, also a seishi. If you like we can pick up where we left off…?"

Hikitsu sighed at the taunting look she gave the boy before addressing him. "Don't mind her… She's truly not the friendly type. She's liable to take off your arm if you tick her off. I must ask… are you one of the Seishi we seek?"

Tilting his head to the side he continued to give Umiyame a cautionary look. "Yes I am… I bear the symbol for emptiness. My name is Tomite."

Muttering softly, the girl began to walk away. "Well, at least his mark matches his mental capacity."

"Why you?!" As he started at her, Hikitsu grabbed his shoulder lightly and shook his head.

"Let it go… She'll warm up eventually…"

Listening to her older friend's words, Umiyame merely scoffed. "Whatever…" At that she started to head toward the village in search of the priestess only to come face to face with the one person she went out of her way to avoid. "Uruki!" The blonde stood in her path grinning broadly making no move to let Umiyame through. "Get out of my way!"

"Oh chill itoko! You're such a grouch! Whose the cute guy with Hikitsu? Please tell me he's one of us!" Beaming at her cousin in delight, Uruki peered over the taller girl's shoulder in order to catch a glimpse at Tomite. "Nothing at all like Hatsui… Though I think Hikitsu is still far cuter!"

Staring at Uruki as her head began to throb all she could do was groan. "Go pester someone else. I have no time to deal with you." With that she shoved the blonde from her path and headed into the inn.

Blonde… Uruki… Clear blue eyes… Tsumetai Ayame! Sitting straight up in bed, Siân looked about the room wildly still feeling extremely dizzy. "Tsumetai-san is Uruki of the Genbu Seven!" At her slight outburst her head began to throb causing her to fall back against the pillow once more. Moaning lowly in pain she pressed a hand to her forehead weakly. She now knew why the girl was so familiar.

Sighing softly she let her eyes fall closed again. It was now dark outside and there seemed to be no one around at the moment. She needed to call home, but the pain in her head hindered her from all movement. Whimpering once more she found nothing else for her to do other than fall back into her fitful sleep full of disturbing dreams of a past life long ago.

~*~

Here is chapter three! I hope it's ok… I'm really drawing straws over the whole Genbu Seishi idea… *blinks* Please don't get angry! Reviews begged for! Disclaimer see first chapter.