~~~~
Rejuvenation
By Eye of Aurora
Salutations! I'm so sorry about the immense Authors Notes belonging to the prior chapter, but I think 60% of it was necessary! Anyway, I guess there isn't too much to say about the next chapter. Its kind of angsty, so hopefully the lot of you enjoys a touch of angst. Thank you to everyone who reviewed...which is 12 people at the current time...including my sister...Darkwater...*flushes in mortal embarrassment* who gave me a very unique review. Well, this story will probably be another lemon...just because I'm that gross. ^^;;; so if anyone REALLY wants a lemon, please, tell me! I'd like the encouragement! And any new ideas would be appreciated too, if there is anything you guys wanna see, I'm very scarce on ideas. (One darling reviewer suggested I write another Nuriko/Miaka fic...well, if you have any ideas for a storyline, I'd be tickled to write it for you!)
Ohhhhhhhhh, by the way, I just wanted you guys to know I was almost completely discouraged out of writing this fic. Some of my friends who I read the first chapter said it was either too overbearing and repetitive, out of character, or just way too much. I'm sorry, if anyone feels this way. I understand Nuriko is a hilarious, fun-loving character, but when the time is right, I'm sure we all know what an emotional, deep, and serious person he can be. Personally, I can see him doing everything I wrote about, as with Miaka. Fortunately for me, none of you guys made any clear complaints in your reviews, and I thank you for that. But seriously, if the dialect I'm using really is too much, I don't mind toning it down. My intention isn't suppose to be to confuse people with a pompous, magniloquent exercise of the English language...(but I've noticed FF.N has included a new dictionary function which should help everyone out, because sorry, but I'm a vocab fiend ^_^)
Anyway...sorry...this chapter may seemed a bit rushed (as in...I'm not planning on describing every detail of each day...so don't be surprised if I go from morning to late evening within a few paragraphs)...kind of full of random little events and dialogue (I usually don't like when too many people do this without reason...so I'll just giving you guys warning) ...I'm trying to build up to the good stuff, so bare with me...it's not nearly as good as an actual episode would be...but hey, I'm not Yu Watase ^_^
Goddamnit, I like to type way too much. Sorry guys, on with the confounded fic! Oh yeah...one more thing...I love talking to fellow authors! So please IM me or something! *Chibi eyes* Onegai?
Sorry it took so long...I'm lazy.
R&R
~~~~
Part 2 out of ? - Renewal
Miaka and I had a little quarrel over where she would sleep. I told her she could lie down in bed with me (I'll admit it, it was for my own personal luxury and pleasure...) but being so hell-bent on ensuring my comfort; she insisted she'd sleep on the floor.
So she did.
To my dismay and relief! I mean, what if Tamahome walked in to find his girlfriend in bed with a fellow Suzaku Seven?
Especially the gay one who had previously admitted to having romantic feelings aimed at this girlfriend of his.
My, that would look good, wouldn't it?
I was never one with a desire to be labeled with unvarying suspicion.
So she slept on the floor. I wasn't too tickled over that unfortunate situation, but for safety purposes, I stood against the temptation to argue further.
My bed felt very cold that night.
Somehow, I managed to doze off despite the assortment of possible outcomes that danced through my head had Miaka succumbed to my short-lived persistence and snuggled up under the covers at my side.
Anyway.
I woke the following morning to a familiar face hovering over me. Naturally, I expected Miaka or even a disgruntled Mitsukake, but neither of them had fiery red hair.
They didn't really have fangs, either...
"Nuriko, buddy...it's great to see you awake." Tasuki said before I was fully conscious. I could tell he was making a blind attempt to sound chipper, but I could see the superfluous memory of that day lingering in those copper eyes, plagued with tender liberation. I suddenly felt at fault; I had caused these people---my friends, my comrades---so much pain, so much worry. I then wanted desperately to relive the events of that afternoon, perhaps hoping for an unattainable chance to alter the chain of proceedings that occurred. I yearned for an opportunity to change what had happened, anything to avoid the suffering and anguish I'd unintentionally bestowed upon my friends.
I began to reluctantly appreciate Tasuki's attempt in remaining apparently unfazed by my brush-with-death. In most cases, I would have been offended, but for some obscure cause, his slight indifference soothed me.
I lifted an insipid hand to press against his warm cheek. "Tasuki, it's good to see you." I noticed his futile effort to battle the advent of painful tears, heavy with unmistakable relief. Seconds later, I was beginning my own struggle to fight the onslaught of sorrow that threatened to fill my eyes with salty moisture.
And at that moment, I knew...I knew it would be the same way with everyone else. I'd fight the tears, trying urgently to keep a smile on my face. To pretend nothing happened. To remain protected in a shell of false, emblematic glee, eager to ease the agony I knew all too well I had caused. I then realized this incident would haunt me for the rest of my life. It would return to me in my dreams, return to me in my nightmares. It would continue to bite at my conscience and eat at my sanity until I took my last breath.
I felt phenomenally helpless.
Then from behind Tasuki...I saw Miaka's face, locked in a phrase of solemn sympathy.
We shared an ephemeral expression of mutual hope. My heart swelled with impulsive gratification. Just seeing her banished all the protracted, negative thoughts that clung to the rounded edges of my mind. She always made me feel better.
Always.
Tasuki covered my hand with his. He smiled gently, "I'm...really glad...you're alright. We all are. You know that, I guess...uh...shit I'm not good at this." He dropped his hand. "I'm just relieved you're okay. It wouldn't be the same without you..."
Well, that's obvious. I'd be dead.
"I hear you're not gonna let Mitsukake heal you...well...I admire you for that. You're strong...and you've proven it. Ahh...well. Get well soon, Nuriko." He patted my blanketed side. "Get well soon..." he repeated, turning to exit the room.
Gee, that was awkward.
Miaka idly watched him depart. Before given the chance to ponder the situation, my Priestess took a comfortable seat at my side.
"And how are you feeling this morning?" she asked, studying me.
This made my heart speed up ever so slightly...
"Better." I replied, sighing heavily.
"I suppose you should expect a few visitors today, I told everyone you were feeling well enough to talk with them."
"Well, it's perfectly true...wouldn't mind visitors. But uh...Miaka? Could you do me a favor? Could you possibly find out from Mitsukake when I can get out of bed?"
I saw her eyes trail from my hairline to my knees. "Sure..." she said quietly.
And she was gone.
~~~~
Miaka returned promptly, followed by a handful of the Suzaku Seven. They all appeared genuinely happy. Happy or relieved...maybe a mixture of both...I couldn't tell.
Chiriko padded over to my bed and wrapped his little arms around me, keenly pleased to see me animate. A carousal of "Oh Nuriko!" and "How are you feeling?" filled the room with a forcefully mirthful ambiance. I patted Chirikos' back thoughtfully and offered my cluster of friends an honest smile.
And of course, as I expected, the foreseeable conversation began, and I soon found myself bombarded with friendly, caring banter. Naturally, I appreciated the attention, but I knew well in my heart, I wanted to forget; to pretend nothing ever happened, to expunge the recent past.
I caught a glimpse of Mitsukake, looking moderately exhausted. His eyes were scarlet, bruised with obvious fatigue. I was then proud of myself that I had taken my physical condition into my own hands, instead of allowing that kindhearted doctor to fully restore my health.
I wanted to thank him, scold him, and send him to bed.
Moments later, His Highness approached me. (The group began to form an unofficial line in order to speak with me; I was the foolish hero after all...) Out of habit, I blushed, my voice wavering ever so slightly. I don't think he ever spoke that kindly to me in the several years I've known him (being a 'lady' of the court...) His voice was gentle, coaxing, distended with apparent solace, a tone I'd only heard him use when speaking with Miaka.
My heart swelled, along with my confidence, knowing so many wonderful people truly cared about me. The irrefutable consolation expressed on their faces was all I needed in order to feel the effects of the atmospheric love.
Hotohori, Mitsukake, Chiriko, Tasuki, Chichiri, Tamahome, and...
Miaka.
I do...I really do love them all...
I do.
Miaka...
I scanned the room briefly before I sighted her. She wasn't looking at me...she was just kind of...staring at the floor. Blankly...
She spoke. "Hey guys! I'm hungry! Let's eat!"
That was all. I'd never heard anyone exaggerate cheerfulness more often than Miaka did.
The interest then focused on the visibly irritated figure standing not a foot from the door. It seemed everyone found that to be a reasonably appropriate plan, and filed out, Chichiri helping me from the mattress.
Walking was quite a lot easier now.
I only required his aid until I reached the exit, and on my own I slid the door open and made my way slowly down the hall. It would be my first meal with everyone since the last time I was in Konan.
~~~~
Breakfast was typical. I think everyone caught on to how hard I was trying to pretend everything was fine. I suppose in a way everything was fine...although...Miaka's mysterious behavior was continually a psychological issue. She was unusually quiet during the meal, sitting there eating her food like she HAD in fact eaten recently. No one else noticed. The undersized event was just like all the rest, whether we were in a pub or an inn or right here in the palace, the same conversation was expected. Tasuki and Tamahome bickered jokingly back and forth, Chichiri suggested they stop. Chiriko would giggle innocently and His Highness would throw in a bit of information about the Seiryu Seven (they weren't bothering us yet...). Around this time, I would pick at Miaka's food (if there was any left) but I refrained from that ritual on this particular morning; she was hardly in the mood...yet, what bothered me considerably was that no one discerned it! Tamahome barely even glanced in her direction! I watched her as she ate. She was staring at a centerpiece on the table.
How completely boring.
I was driven to find out exactly what was wrong with her. I could think of a few things she'd be down about...a fight with Tamahome, perhaps...or the problem with Yui and the Seiryu Seven, or of course, my little life-threatening incident. Although...it seemed unlikely something like that would bother her THAT much...
I mean...I lived through it, didn't I?
After breakfast, Mitsukake mentioned that my body would recover faster if I didn't push anything and just lay in bed for a few more days. I was quite disappointed to discover I'd be stuck in that damned room for a longer amount of time. I hate feeling helpless...
Before the dear man could walk away, I stopped him and pulled him into a childish embrace. He was startled, but of course being the benevolent fellow that he is, he gently wrapped his arms around me, careful not to put pressure on my damaged torso.
"Thank you, Mitsukake...thank you very, very much. You've saved my life...I owe you everything..."
I could hear his steady, rhythmic heartbeat...it was eerily soothing.
He spoke, his voice was low, warm, and I could feel it rumbling deep in his body. "You don't owe me anything, Nuriko. It is what I do."
He gave my shoulder a humble squeeze...simply turned, and continued down the hall.
Incredible man.
He'll make someone very happy one day. May not be a Shoka...but someone...
~~~~
I followed Miaka into her room. She was alone.
Oddly enough, she was lying face-first on the mattress.
"Miaka?"
"Nuriko...?"
I couldn't see her face, but her voice was heard clearly.
I was at a loss for words...so I allowed them to flow in what ever haphazard, arbitrary direction they pleased.
"Where is Tamahome?" Not that I really cared at that precise moment...
"Town?" She responded, almost in a questioning manner. "He left after breakfast...said he was gonna see if he could get some temporary work while we're in Konan for awhile. Not that he even has a family to earn money for..." her tone revealed signs of slight disconsolation, "but I guess there is no harm in having spare change..."
She sat up lazily, pushing some tousled hair from her eyes. "Right, Nuriko?" I received a forced smile.
I absolutely hate those false, blatantly artificial smiles she throws at me. I hated them...
I practically stormed into the room, ignoring the fact that I had no permission to do so, slid the door closed behind me with embellished vigor and walked briskly over to her bed, catching her eye in an angry trance. I resisted the urge to grab her shoulders and shake the fabrication out of her.
"Miaka," I began firmly, "What in the hell is wrong with you lately?" I couldn't think of much else to say...so I stood there, offering questioning glances and hoping she'd explain her anomalous behavior without additional reluctance.
Her gaze was idle, lacking character. She wasn't acting herself in the slightest...I was beginning to feel as though I was integrating a perfect stranger.
She looked up at me like I was insane, her eyes searching mine as if desiring to site a touch of coherence. Then I saw those dreaded tears trickling down her paling cheeks. I sighed in sympathy; I'd made her cry again...
"I can't get that day out of my head, Nuriko!" she exclaimed, her lip trembling visibly. "Every time I close my eyes...all I can see is you! Lying in your own blood!!! The life draining from your eyes...how do you think that made me feel, Nuriko? How do you think I feel!?!?!?"
She was yelling at me...
It wasn't my fault...
"Miaka..." I said slowly, watching as big, heavy tears surged from the corners of her troubled eyes. "It...it wasn't my fault!" I sounded dumb, juvenile, like I was talking to an accusing priest. My defense was weak.
She sniffled, "Of course not! You were the one who wanted to go up the mountain by yourself! You were the one who said you'd be fine..."
I was vaguely aware that she didn't necessarily mean all the things she was spouting from her mouth. She was distressed...she'd witnessed something horrible...I couldn't blame her...
She was sobbing now, her face in her hands, her shoulders heaving.
Like a little girl...
Just like some innocent kid...
She resembled a child to an immeasurable extent. She was so pointlessly emotional, so easily provoked, effortlessly driven to tears...with such a fragile mind. She was immature...but in a fashion I found myself completely enthralled with.
I sighed shakily, perturbed by her crying spell. I sat beside her on the bed, hugging her tenderly. Despite her previous display of resentment aimed toward me, she leaned into my embrace, continuing to weep into my tunic. I shivered briefly at the feeling of her tears soaking the silk material covering the bandages on my chest.
It wasn't long until her crying diminished.
She spoke softly, her voice abrasive. "Can I sleep in your room again?"
I was still puzzled as to way she felt it essential to sleep by me each night. This would be the second night I was conscious, and theoretically, Miaka hadn't left my side.
...so I allowed her to spend the night with me again. Not that I minded, I enjoyed her company like no other...I was just plausibly perplexed as to why she insisted upon keeping by me every passing moment.
The rest of that day was simply uneventful, as my past days in the palace had always been. Although the peace was remarkably relaxing, I had become quite accustomed to the 'traveling warrior' lifestyle the eight of us had adapted recently. It seemed during times like these, everyone was content going their own way. I suppose they figured I didn't want a horde of people constantly nagging me about my state of comfort; they knew I'd be alright, and that I truly wished to live out the remainder of my life as thought that appalling affair had not occurred, and for everyone to continue their days in hopes of forgetting as well.
~~~~
Evening approached unhurriedly, considering Chichiri, who claimed he was relying a message from Mitsukake, sent me to my room.
So naturally, I was indefinably bored. I slept through most of the afternoon, to my surprise, and then joined the group for dinner. The sun was slowly setting, and I knew to wait for Miaka's appearance.
It wasn't until late evening when she emerged through my doorway, a confusingly pleasant expression on her pretty face. She was already in her sleeping attire, which I found avidly adorable. She clutched a pillow; probably assuming I'd let her borrow a blanket or two for the dwelling she was about to make on my floor.
"I expected you earlier," I said, tugging absent-mindedly on a stray thread protruding from the mass of covers piled atop my body.
"I'm sorry..." she began, "I was with Tam---Tamahome...and Tasuki and Chichiri...they wanted to get a glimpse of the kingdom, so Tamahome and I went along."
Now, I don't know how true that is...but I had a feeling she somehow knew I'd be jealous if I found out she'd spent all afternoon alone with just Tamahome, despite how normal that seemed in the scheme of things. It explains her hesitation during her clarification...
She really didn't permit me to inquire further. She set her pillow meticulously on the floor by the nightstand, padded across the room and grabbed a stool near a cupboard by the door, and placed it beside my bed. She took a seat, and simply leaned over onto my mattress in a seemingly uncomfortable position, with her arms resting on my bed, her torso slightly contorted. She laid her head upon her folded arms, sinking partially into the softness of the layers of blankets, her hair falling gently over her shoulders.
"How long have you been in here?" She asked.
"Since after breakfast," I replying in an exasperated tone, "Chichiri insisted, as did Mitsukake...and he knows best...so yeah, I've been stuck here all day long..." I yawned, signifying my boredom.
She yawned in return.
"Miaka?"
She looked at me, intensely for a minute, which was strange. "Would you do me a favor?"
"Sure."
I rubbed my eyes, fishing dumbly for words. "Would you try to forget that incident on the mountain, I---"
"I can't," she said very quickly.
"Miaka..."
"I already tried, Nuriko..."
I sighed...irritably. "It will take time..."
She was silent.
"Miaka?"
"I don't want to talk about it," she stated very plainly, basically proving that I wasn't insane for accusing her of acting so aberrant lately. She was actually beginning to frighten me. Where the hell was the old Miaka?
I watched her for a moment, noticing her enervated gaze. "Please, Nuriko...don't ever remind me of that day again."
It was my turn to reply with silence. I think she knew as well as I that neither of us cared to remember that atrocious event. We could all do without the memory...
It wasn't long before Miaka replaced the stool back by the cupboard, blew out a candle by the door, and returned to her little bed next to mine. Receiving the hint that she wanted to go to sleep, I smothered the candle flame on the nightstand, mumbled a "Good night, Miaka," and drifted into a light, dreamless sleep.
~~~~
Whoa, kind of cut you off there. ^_^ The next part will be up MUCH faster, I promise!...and will initiate the romance...oh yes...the romance ^^;;; I'm so sorry it took so long...I've been busy obsessing over Dance Dance Revolution, pining for Belldandy, and playing a shit-load of chess of Yahoo!...so yeah...distractions and laziness don't mix when you're trying to write a fanfiction. This chapter is a tad short...about 3,500 words...but hey, whose keeping track? Anyway...please! Feel free to IM me or e-mail me at anytime! And like I said in my continually long Authors Notes, I would love to write more NurikoxMiaka fanfiction if someone had an idea or two for me!
Anyway, thank you so much to all my wonderful reviewers. Suki yo ichiban, minna! OH, and you know? I found it dreadfully funny that most lemon authors simply changed their NC-17 ratings to R...I really didn't expect so many to do that...but of course...being the sicko that I am...I greatly appreciated that! I didn't bother changing my ratings, because I really didn't like my lemons anyway...they just weren't good stories. Well...since I was planning on making this a lemon...I hope no one will tell on me if I rate it R? Tell me if you mind...I don't wanna get in trouble ^_^ lol thanks guys, keep an eye out for the next chapter...and don't be afraid to ask me to e-mail you when I update, I don't mind! I have a WHOLE LOT of free time! 'Til next time, ja matta ne.
Rejuvenation
By Eye of Aurora
Salutations! I'm so sorry about the immense Authors Notes belonging to the prior chapter, but I think 60% of it was necessary! Anyway, I guess there isn't too much to say about the next chapter. Its kind of angsty, so hopefully the lot of you enjoys a touch of angst. Thank you to everyone who reviewed...which is 12 people at the current time...including my sister...Darkwater...*flushes in mortal embarrassment* who gave me a very unique review. Well, this story will probably be another lemon...just because I'm that gross. ^^;;; so if anyone REALLY wants a lemon, please, tell me! I'd like the encouragement! And any new ideas would be appreciated too, if there is anything you guys wanna see, I'm very scarce on ideas. (One darling reviewer suggested I write another Nuriko/Miaka fic...well, if you have any ideas for a storyline, I'd be tickled to write it for you!)
Ohhhhhhhhh, by the way, I just wanted you guys to know I was almost completely discouraged out of writing this fic. Some of my friends who I read the first chapter said it was either too overbearing and repetitive, out of character, or just way too much. I'm sorry, if anyone feels this way. I understand Nuriko is a hilarious, fun-loving character, but when the time is right, I'm sure we all know what an emotional, deep, and serious person he can be. Personally, I can see him doing everything I wrote about, as with Miaka. Fortunately for me, none of you guys made any clear complaints in your reviews, and I thank you for that. But seriously, if the dialect I'm using really is too much, I don't mind toning it down. My intention isn't suppose to be to confuse people with a pompous, magniloquent exercise of the English language...(but I've noticed FF.N has included a new dictionary function which should help everyone out, because sorry, but I'm a vocab fiend ^_^)
Anyway...sorry...this chapter may seemed a bit rushed (as in...I'm not planning on describing every detail of each day...so don't be surprised if I go from morning to late evening within a few paragraphs)...kind of full of random little events and dialogue (I usually don't like when too many people do this without reason...so I'll just giving you guys warning) ...I'm trying to build up to the good stuff, so bare with me...it's not nearly as good as an actual episode would be...but hey, I'm not Yu Watase ^_^
Goddamnit, I like to type way too much. Sorry guys, on with the confounded fic! Oh yeah...one more thing...I love talking to fellow authors! So please IM me or something! *Chibi eyes* Onegai?
Sorry it took so long...I'm lazy.
R&R
~~~~
Part 2 out of ? - Renewal
Miaka and I had a little quarrel over where she would sleep. I told her she could lie down in bed with me (I'll admit it, it was for my own personal luxury and pleasure...) but being so hell-bent on ensuring my comfort; she insisted she'd sleep on the floor.
So she did.
To my dismay and relief! I mean, what if Tamahome walked in to find his girlfriend in bed with a fellow Suzaku Seven?
Especially the gay one who had previously admitted to having romantic feelings aimed at this girlfriend of his.
My, that would look good, wouldn't it?
I was never one with a desire to be labeled with unvarying suspicion.
So she slept on the floor. I wasn't too tickled over that unfortunate situation, but for safety purposes, I stood against the temptation to argue further.
My bed felt very cold that night.
Somehow, I managed to doze off despite the assortment of possible outcomes that danced through my head had Miaka succumbed to my short-lived persistence and snuggled up under the covers at my side.
Anyway.
I woke the following morning to a familiar face hovering over me. Naturally, I expected Miaka or even a disgruntled Mitsukake, but neither of them had fiery red hair.
They didn't really have fangs, either...
"Nuriko, buddy...it's great to see you awake." Tasuki said before I was fully conscious. I could tell he was making a blind attempt to sound chipper, but I could see the superfluous memory of that day lingering in those copper eyes, plagued with tender liberation. I suddenly felt at fault; I had caused these people---my friends, my comrades---so much pain, so much worry. I then wanted desperately to relive the events of that afternoon, perhaps hoping for an unattainable chance to alter the chain of proceedings that occurred. I yearned for an opportunity to change what had happened, anything to avoid the suffering and anguish I'd unintentionally bestowed upon my friends.
I began to reluctantly appreciate Tasuki's attempt in remaining apparently unfazed by my brush-with-death. In most cases, I would have been offended, but for some obscure cause, his slight indifference soothed me.
I lifted an insipid hand to press against his warm cheek. "Tasuki, it's good to see you." I noticed his futile effort to battle the advent of painful tears, heavy with unmistakable relief. Seconds later, I was beginning my own struggle to fight the onslaught of sorrow that threatened to fill my eyes with salty moisture.
And at that moment, I knew...I knew it would be the same way with everyone else. I'd fight the tears, trying urgently to keep a smile on my face. To pretend nothing happened. To remain protected in a shell of false, emblematic glee, eager to ease the agony I knew all too well I had caused. I then realized this incident would haunt me for the rest of my life. It would return to me in my dreams, return to me in my nightmares. It would continue to bite at my conscience and eat at my sanity until I took my last breath.
I felt phenomenally helpless.
Then from behind Tasuki...I saw Miaka's face, locked in a phrase of solemn sympathy.
We shared an ephemeral expression of mutual hope. My heart swelled with impulsive gratification. Just seeing her banished all the protracted, negative thoughts that clung to the rounded edges of my mind. She always made me feel better.
Always.
Tasuki covered my hand with his. He smiled gently, "I'm...really glad...you're alright. We all are. You know that, I guess...uh...shit I'm not good at this." He dropped his hand. "I'm just relieved you're okay. It wouldn't be the same without you..."
Well, that's obvious. I'd be dead.
"I hear you're not gonna let Mitsukake heal you...well...I admire you for that. You're strong...and you've proven it. Ahh...well. Get well soon, Nuriko." He patted my blanketed side. "Get well soon..." he repeated, turning to exit the room.
Gee, that was awkward.
Miaka idly watched him depart. Before given the chance to ponder the situation, my Priestess took a comfortable seat at my side.
"And how are you feeling this morning?" she asked, studying me.
This made my heart speed up ever so slightly...
"Better." I replied, sighing heavily.
"I suppose you should expect a few visitors today, I told everyone you were feeling well enough to talk with them."
"Well, it's perfectly true...wouldn't mind visitors. But uh...Miaka? Could you do me a favor? Could you possibly find out from Mitsukake when I can get out of bed?"
I saw her eyes trail from my hairline to my knees. "Sure..." she said quietly.
And she was gone.
~~~~
Miaka returned promptly, followed by a handful of the Suzaku Seven. They all appeared genuinely happy. Happy or relieved...maybe a mixture of both...I couldn't tell.
Chiriko padded over to my bed and wrapped his little arms around me, keenly pleased to see me animate. A carousal of "Oh Nuriko!" and "How are you feeling?" filled the room with a forcefully mirthful ambiance. I patted Chirikos' back thoughtfully and offered my cluster of friends an honest smile.
And of course, as I expected, the foreseeable conversation began, and I soon found myself bombarded with friendly, caring banter. Naturally, I appreciated the attention, but I knew well in my heart, I wanted to forget; to pretend nothing ever happened, to expunge the recent past.
I caught a glimpse of Mitsukake, looking moderately exhausted. His eyes were scarlet, bruised with obvious fatigue. I was then proud of myself that I had taken my physical condition into my own hands, instead of allowing that kindhearted doctor to fully restore my health.
I wanted to thank him, scold him, and send him to bed.
Moments later, His Highness approached me. (The group began to form an unofficial line in order to speak with me; I was the foolish hero after all...) Out of habit, I blushed, my voice wavering ever so slightly. I don't think he ever spoke that kindly to me in the several years I've known him (being a 'lady' of the court...) His voice was gentle, coaxing, distended with apparent solace, a tone I'd only heard him use when speaking with Miaka.
My heart swelled, along with my confidence, knowing so many wonderful people truly cared about me. The irrefutable consolation expressed on their faces was all I needed in order to feel the effects of the atmospheric love.
Hotohori, Mitsukake, Chiriko, Tasuki, Chichiri, Tamahome, and...
Miaka.
I do...I really do love them all...
I do.
Miaka...
I scanned the room briefly before I sighted her. She wasn't looking at me...she was just kind of...staring at the floor. Blankly...
She spoke. "Hey guys! I'm hungry! Let's eat!"
That was all. I'd never heard anyone exaggerate cheerfulness more often than Miaka did.
The interest then focused on the visibly irritated figure standing not a foot from the door. It seemed everyone found that to be a reasonably appropriate plan, and filed out, Chichiri helping me from the mattress.
Walking was quite a lot easier now.
I only required his aid until I reached the exit, and on my own I slid the door open and made my way slowly down the hall. It would be my first meal with everyone since the last time I was in Konan.
~~~~
Breakfast was typical. I think everyone caught on to how hard I was trying to pretend everything was fine. I suppose in a way everything was fine...although...Miaka's mysterious behavior was continually a psychological issue. She was unusually quiet during the meal, sitting there eating her food like she HAD in fact eaten recently. No one else noticed. The undersized event was just like all the rest, whether we were in a pub or an inn or right here in the palace, the same conversation was expected. Tasuki and Tamahome bickered jokingly back and forth, Chichiri suggested they stop. Chiriko would giggle innocently and His Highness would throw in a bit of information about the Seiryu Seven (they weren't bothering us yet...). Around this time, I would pick at Miaka's food (if there was any left) but I refrained from that ritual on this particular morning; she was hardly in the mood...yet, what bothered me considerably was that no one discerned it! Tamahome barely even glanced in her direction! I watched her as she ate. She was staring at a centerpiece on the table.
How completely boring.
I was driven to find out exactly what was wrong with her. I could think of a few things she'd be down about...a fight with Tamahome, perhaps...or the problem with Yui and the Seiryu Seven, or of course, my little life-threatening incident. Although...it seemed unlikely something like that would bother her THAT much...
I mean...I lived through it, didn't I?
After breakfast, Mitsukake mentioned that my body would recover faster if I didn't push anything and just lay in bed for a few more days. I was quite disappointed to discover I'd be stuck in that damned room for a longer amount of time. I hate feeling helpless...
Before the dear man could walk away, I stopped him and pulled him into a childish embrace. He was startled, but of course being the benevolent fellow that he is, he gently wrapped his arms around me, careful not to put pressure on my damaged torso.
"Thank you, Mitsukake...thank you very, very much. You've saved my life...I owe you everything..."
I could hear his steady, rhythmic heartbeat...it was eerily soothing.
He spoke, his voice was low, warm, and I could feel it rumbling deep in his body. "You don't owe me anything, Nuriko. It is what I do."
He gave my shoulder a humble squeeze...simply turned, and continued down the hall.
Incredible man.
He'll make someone very happy one day. May not be a Shoka...but someone...
~~~~
I followed Miaka into her room. She was alone.
Oddly enough, she was lying face-first on the mattress.
"Miaka?"
"Nuriko...?"
I couldn't see her face, but her voice was heard clearly.
I was at a loss for words...so I allowed them to flow in what ever haphazard, arbitrary direction they pleased.
"Where is Tamahome?" Not that I really cared at that precise moment...
"Town?" She responded, almost in a questioning manner. "He left after breakfast...said he was gonna see if he could get some temporary work while we're in Konan for awhile. Not that he even has a family to earn money for..." her tone revealed signs of slight disconsolation, "but I guess there is no harm in having spare change..."
She sat up lazily, pushing some tousled hair from her eyes. "Right, Nuriko?" I received a forced smile.
I absolutely hate those false, blatantly artificial smiles she throws at me. I hated them...
I practically stormed into the room, ignoring the fact that I had no permission to do so, slid the door closed behind me with embellished vigor and walked briskly over to her bed, catching her eye in an angry trance. I resisted the urge to grab her shoulders and shake the fabrication out of her.
"Miaka," I began firmly, "What in the hell is wrong with you lately?" I couldn't think of much else to say...so I stood there, offering questioning glances and hoping she'd explain her anomalous behavior without additional reluctance.
Her gaze was idle, lacking character. She wasn't acting herself in the slightest...I was beginning to feel as though I was integrating a perfect stranger.
She looked up at me like I was insane, her eyes searching mine as if desiring to site a touch of coherence. Then I saw those dreaded tears trickling down her paling cheeks. I sighed in sympathy; I'd made her cry again...
"I can't get that day out of my head, Nuriko!" she exclaimed, her lip trembling visibly. "Every time I close my eyes...all I can see is you! Lying in your own blood!!! The life draining from your eyes...how do you think that made me feel, Nuriko? How do you think I feel!?!?!?"
She was yelling at me...
It wasn't my fault...
"Miaka..." I said slowly, watching as big, heavy tears surged from the corners of her troubled eyes. "It...it wasn't my fault!" I sounded dumb, juvenile, like I was talking to an accusing priest. My defense was weak.
She sniffled, "Of course not! You were the one who wanted to go up the mountain by yourself! You were the one who said you'd be fine..."
I was vaguely aware that she didn't necessarily mean all the things she was spouting from her mouth. She was distressed...she'd witnessed something horrible...I couldn't blame her...
She was sobbing now, her face in her hands, her shoulders heaving.
Like a little girl...
Just like some innocent kid...
She resembled a child to an immeasurable extent. She was so pointlessly emotional, so easily provoked, effortlessly driven to tears...with such a fragile mind. She was immature...but in a fashion I found myself completely enthralled with.
I sighed shakily, perturbed by her crying spell. I sat beside her on the bed, hugging her tenderly. Despite her previous display of resentment aimed toward me, she leaned into my embrace, continuing to weep into my tunic. I shivered briefly at the feeling of her tears soaking the silk material covering the bandages on my chest.
It wasn't long until her crying diminished.
She spoke softly, her voice abrasive. "Can I sleep in your room again?"
I was still puzzled as to way she felt it essential to sleep by me each night. This would be the second night I was conscious, and theoretically, Miaka hadn't left my side.
...so I allowed her to spend the night with me again. Not that I minded, I enjoyed her company like no other...I was just plausibly perplexed as to why she insisted upon keeping by me every passing moment.
The rest of that day was simply uneventful, as my past days in the palace had always been. Although the peace was remarkably relaxing, I had become quite accustomed to the 'traveling warrior' lifestyle the eight of us had adapted recently. It seemed during times like these, everyone was content going their own way. I suppose they figured I didn't want a horde of people constantly nagging me about my state of comfort; they knew I'd be alright, and that I truly wished to live out the remainder of my life as thought that appalling affair had not occurred, and for everyone to continue their days in hopes of forgetting as well.
~~~~
Evening approached unhurriedly, considering Chichiri, who claimed he was relying a message from Mitsukake, sent me to my room.
So naturally, I was indefinably bored. I slept through most of the afternoon, to my surprise, and then joined the group for dinner. The sun was slowly setting, and I knew to wait for Miaka's appearance.
It wasn't until late evening when she emerged through my doorway, a confusingly pleasant expression on her pretty face. She was already in her sleeping attire, which I found avidly adorable. She clutched a pillow; probably assuming I'd let her borrow a blanket or two for the dwelling she was about to make on my floor.
"I expected you earlier," I said, tugging absent-mindedly on a stray thread protruding from the mass of covers piled atop my body.
"I'm sorry..." she began, "I was with Tam---Tamahome...and Tasuki and Chichiri...they wanted to get a glimpse of the kingdom, so Tamahome and I went along."
Now, I don't know how true that is...but I had a feeling she somehow knew I'd be jealous if I found out she'd spent all afternoon alone with just Tamahome, despite how normal that seemed in the scheme of things. It explains her hesitation during her clarification...
She really didn't permit me to inquire further. She set her pillow meticulously on the floor by the nightstand, padded across the room and grabbed a stool near a cupboard by the door, and placed it beside my bed. She took a seat, and simply leaned over onto my mattress in a seemingly uncomfortable position, with her arms resting on my bed, her torso slightly contorted. She laid her head upon her folded arms, sinking partially into the softness of the layers of blankets, her hair falling gently over her shoulders.
"How long have you been in here?" She asked.
"Since after breakfast," I replying in an exasperated tone, "Chichiri insisted, as did Mitsukake...and he knows best...so yeah, I've been stuck here all day long..." I yawned, signifying my boredom.
She yawned in return.
"Miaka?"
She looked at me, intensely for a minute, which was strange. "Would you do me a favor?"
"Sure."
I rubbed my eyes, fishing dumbly for words. "Would you try to forget that incident on the mountain, I---"
"I can't," she said very quickly.
"Miaka..."
"I already tried, Nuriko..."
I sighed...irritably. "It will take time..."
She was silent.
"Miaka?"
"I don't want to talk about it," she stated very plainly, basically proving that I wasn't insane for accusing her of acting so aberrant lately. She was actually beginning to frighten me. Where the hell was the old Miaka?
I watched her for a moment, noticing her enervated gaze. "Please, Nuriko...don't ever remind me of that day again."
It was my turn to reply with silence. I think she knew as well as I that neither of us cared to remember that atrocious event. We could all do without the memory...
It wasn't long before Miaka replaced the stool back by the cupboard, blew out a candle by the door, and returned to her little bed next to mine. Receiving the hint that she wanted to go to sleep, I smothered the candle flame on the nightstand, mumbled a "Good night, Miaka," and drifted into a light, dreamless sleep.
~~~~
Whoa, kind of cut you off there. ^_^ The next part will be up MUCH faster, I promise!...and will initiate the romance...oh yes...the romance ^^;;; I'm so sorry it took so long...I've been busy obsessing over Dance Dance Revolution, pining for Belldandy, and playing a shit-load of chess of Yahoo!...so yeah...distractions and laziness don't mix when you're trying to write a fanfiction. This chapter is a tad short...about 3,500 words...but hey, whose keeping track? Anyway...please! Feel free to IM me or e-mail me at anytime! And like I said in my continually long Authors Notes, I would love to write more NurikoxMiaka fanfiction if someone had an idea or two for me!
Anyway, thank you so much to all my wonderful reviewers. Suki yo ichiban, minna! OH, and you know? I found it dreadfully funny that most lemon authors simply changed their NC-17 ratings to R...I really didn't expect so many to do that...but of course...being the sicko that I am...I greatly appreciated that! I didn't bother changing my ratings, because I really didn't like my lemons anyway...they just weren't good stories. Well...since I was planning on making this a lemon...I hope no one will tell on me if I rate it R? Tell me if you mind...I don't wanna get in trouble ^_^ lol thanks guys, keep an eye out for the next chapter...and don't be afraid to ask me to e-mail you when I update, I don't mind! I have a WHOLE LOT of free time! 'Til next time, ja matta ne.