Chapter 2: Tenshi no Atarashiki Tensei, Daikonsen (Angel of a New Rebirth, Daikonsen)
The Guardians of the Priestess of Suzaku


Mirakuru ran faster and faster until she could run no more. Her vision was know clouded because of the tears falling from her eyes. "Damn it!" *I cried in front of them all. Now they must think I'm weak. Damn it. Damn it. Damn it!!!!* She fell down to her knees and wiped away the remaining tears. "I should have never shown my power, not to them, not in this strange world. Where am I anyway? What is this place? All I can remember is being with Densetsu, Daikonsen, and Kakusei at the library and being in the myths and legend section. Skimming the dark shelfs of the room, I could have sworn there was a presence there. I heard a thump and ran around the next row of books and there was a book. The door shut gently. Someone was in there before us, reading this book. I blew the dust off and read the cover, "The Book of the Universe of the Four Gods..." Chinese... "Daiko-chan, Kaku-chan, Denset-chan!" The were by my side and each read the first couple of chapters aloud. The last words I remember reading were, 'The Priestess, was not to be forced to deny her heart's desire for the warrior, Tamahome. It was very hard for both of them. And after the death of Tamahome's family Miaka had to hold back everything from the one she loved. They were about to set out to find the Shinzaho, when the Guardians of Suzaku arrived to protect the Priestess and there was the young, restless, Protecter of Eternal Wishes, the reliable, ambitious, Angel of a New Rebirth, strong, playful, Warrior of Willpower, and the intelligent, and reserved, Beauty of Truth." I turned the page and then we were all encircled by a brilliant red light. And then we were here, in this stange place... Could we have been sucked into the The Universe of the Four Gods. And if so, this must be, Konan, and here is were Suzaku is.* The reality was surprising, actually kind of invigorating.

Hotohori had finally spotted the young girl. "Miss?"

"Is this place known as Konan?" She stood up and faced him. Surprisingly her tears were gone.

"Yes. It is." Hotohori blinked and pulled his hair from his eyes but it fell right back into place.

She couldn't help but smile. "Please, are you one of the Suzaku Seven?"

"Yes, I am. I am Hotohori, the Sea Snake and Emperor of Konan," he smiled slightly.

"You... Are the Emperor?" She know felt mad at herself once again. *I can't believe I through myself at the ruler of this land like that. I feel like such an idiot. I bet he's gonna through me in the dungon or something.* She bent down on one knee. "Please forgive me your highness. I don't know what came over me. I promise it will never happen again." She hid her face, knowing she was blushing.

"That's quite alright, Miss," he helped her to her feet. "Please, tell me your name," he said in his gentle and calm voice.

Her cheeks flushed deeper in color. "My name is Tenno Mirakuru. Or Just Mirakuru."

"That's Japanese, isn't it?" His soft hand supported her chin, otherwise she wouldn't be able to look at him.

"Yes..." Her eyes twinkled like the stars that night.

"Miracle, I believe."

She nodded.

"What a beautiful name you have."

"Thank you." She felt herself collaspe in his arms. On the edge of unconsciousness she looked into his eyes. The green in them made her want reach up and kiss him. Her blue eyes shut and she whispered something to sweet to have been heard by anyone else. "Hotohori, suddenly I've found bliss."

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Daikonsen woke up to find the same girl, who was with the handsome man last night. "Where am I?" She shook her head until her eyes focused on the girl infront of her. "What happened?"

"First of all," the girl smiled. "My name is Miaka."

"I'm Daikonsen."

"I am the Priestess of Suzaku!"

Daikonsen's breath drew shorter. "The Priestess... of... Suzaku..." Her eyes widened and she sat up with a shooked look on her face.

"That's right. This empire is that of Konan. And it is ruled by the Emperor and swordsman, Hotohori. Tasuki, the bandit and magician, he can't swim, but he's cool. Nuriko, the brawn, he looks like a girl, but is definatley a guy. Chiriko, the scholar, he's a little 13 year old genius. Mitsukake, the healer, he's quiet, but really friendly. Chichiri, the hermit and sorceror, he's funny, but wise and dependable. Tama is Mitsukake's cat, you'll see him around here a lot. And finally, the handsome Tamahome, the martial artist, he acts selfish occassionally but he's a great friend and is very reliable. He'd never break a promise, and trusts his instincts. He's always lending a shoulder to cry on. Hmm..." Miaka smiled.

"So, my friends and I were transported into The Book of the Universe of the Four Gods. And this is were the battle is taking place, against the Seiryu Seven and the Priestess of Seiryu, Yui."
"Guess your stuck here too." Miaka couldn't help but laugh.

A smile sturck Daiko's face and she laughed aloud too. They shared a short, but precious moment, and then she heard somebody calling Miaka's name. "Miaka..."

"I'll check on you later with some breakfast. See you later, Daiko-chan." She watched Miaka walk out and heard the voice of the handsome stranger.

"Tamahome..." She whispered his name.

"Hotohori asked you in for breakfast. The others are already there."

"Breakfast!" Miaka said cheerfully. "I can't wait."

"Wait up for me, okay?" Tamahome seemed to be desiring something more than his breakfast.

"Okay..." There was silence and she leaned over to see them. Miaka's arms were around Tamahome and her lips were nearly locked with his. She saw his eyes were afire and a feeling deep within her choked.

*They can't be together. They can't be together like that anymore, not until they find the Shinzaho and call upon Suzaku.*

"It's so hard for me not to touch you, when I can barely hold back," Tamahome dared to say.

"I know, Tamahome, but I can't help it anymore, I only want to forget about Suzaku and just be with you. Marry you. Bare your children." Their faces flushed. "It's so hard Tamahome, it's so hard, not to let you touch me, not to let you kiss me, not to let you hold me, not to let you love me."

"You can't forget about Suzaku, it's the only way we can be together, forever."

"Just let me..." Miaka sighed

"This once..." Tamahome sighed deeper. He almost forced her lips to his but once they touched, they heard Tihitscun's voice.

"Miaka!"

She had to get away from him, otherwise, she'd lose everything she's fought so hard to keep.

"I'm sorry," the two said together. Miaka ran off towards the dining room and left Tamahome's arms.

"Miaka... I promise I'll protect you until the day I die."

Daikonsen heard the door of her room slide open. Tamahome stepped in.

"Hey there!" He smiled. "How are you doing?! Better I hope."

"Your so strong." She looked up at him and then realized she had nothing on. She fiddled the covers over her breasts, her cheeks the cooler of cherries.

He laughed. "Your silly." He winked. "I don't know how many times Miaka has done that. Probably wished they'd give you a night shirt, huh?"

She nodded, but then looked back at him. "Are you alright?"

"Me!" He looked clueless. "Yeah! Why?" He sat down near her knees.

"You and Miaka can't be together until you get the Shinzaho and summon Suzaku."

"Yes, that's true. But I'll be fine, really." *Geez, this girl is to concerned with others. She's the one who almost got raped.* "Where are you from?"

"China, but about a bazillion years in the future. I, like Miaka, and my friends are from another world."

"Your kidding!!!" Tamahome put his head closer to her face."

She blushed again. "No. Not at all." He stood up. "Do you think it would be alright if I ate breakfast with you guys, instead of Miaka bringing it to me. I don't want to be any extra work."

"Yes, I'm sure it would be alright." He left the room and waited by the door. "I'll wait while you get dressed."

A purple kamono had been lefted by her bed side. She put it on and looked at her reflection in a mirror. "I look fat." She tightened the sach until it completely form-fitted her body. "Much better, but my hair still looks all wrong." She took a comb from her bag and a hair tie. Flipping her hair up into a ponytail she brushed her bags out straight. "There!" She didn't bother with make up and walked out to find Tamahome waiting just like he said he was. A cat sat in his lap and he cuddled it.

"This must be Tama!" She gently tooke the cat from him and helped Tamahome from his feet. "Ready!"

"You just sounded like Miaka!" He chuckled and lead her to the dining area. They only had to walk about a thousand feet and the was the door to where the Suzaku warriors ate. Nuriko was missing.

"Where's Lord Nuriko?" Chiriko asked polietly to Miaka.

"I'm not sure." Miaka said. "Maybe I should go look for him."

"I don't think that would be such a good idea," Mitsukake said to her.

"I agree," Hotohori said at the head of the table. "He seems upset after last night. I think it may be best if we left him alone."

Daikonsen slide in between Kakusei and Densetsu. They smiled and exchanged good mornings. "Have either of seen Mirakuru?"

"No." Densetsu said, chopsticks in hand. "I haven't seen her since last night."

"Last night was so awful." Kakusei sighed. "Good thing we're all okay." Then there was a group hug between the three.

Tasuki watched in awe. "What's up with you girls?"

Densetsu blinked. "What do you mean?"

"Your so close," Tasuki said.

"Where just great friends!" Daikonsen smiled.

"Hmm." Chichiri gazed at them. "There's something about you girls."

"What?!" Kakusei asked.

"Each of you possess a familiar aura."

"I saw it in Mirakuru last night." Tamahome said.

"Your all of Suzaku!" Hotohoti stood up and slammed a fist down into the table. "That's it!" The others were surprised at his out burst.

"Highness?!" Mitsukake asked.

Hotohori cleared his throat and sat back down. "Excuse me." Hotohori's calmness returned. "I didn't think the legends were true, but this proves it." His eyes opened. "Your four are the Guardians of Suzaku, destined to protect the Priestess as we, the Suzaku Seven do."

"What?????????????!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" There surprised girls cried. Anime stlye sweat drops appeared on all but Hotohori's foreheads.

"That's not possible, I barely passed my entrance exam. How can I possibly protect Miaka?" Kakusei said with shook.

"You've got to be kidding!" Densetsu, stood up distrubed. "There's no way!!!!!!!!"

Daikonsen blinked. "Cool!" She smiled.

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Mirakuru found herself walking down a path that lead to a stream. The sweet smell of cherry blossems filled the air until she found herself dreaming of the handsome Emperor. She was back home, and the snow had finally come. She and Hotohori walked down the streets of Tokyo, smiling at the coffee and cocoa shops. "Come on Hotohori! Let's get some cocoa to warm us up." She smiled happily. *Hotohori...* "I've got a better idea," he smiled. "What?" She teased. "I'll warm you up myself." Hotohori's lips touched hers and she found the warmth she'd wanted. "Mirakuru?" Hotohori faded away. Nuriko stood in front of her.

"Mirakuru?" Nuriko asked. "What are you doing here?" Nuriko blinked and then looked back at the sunrise. It was very early in the morning, and she guessed no one got much sleep last night, especially her. She stayed up thinking about the kindness of Hotohori. His green eyes and his warm arms, made him seem unachieveable to get.

*What am I doing?* Mirakuru shook her head. *There's no way I have a chance with an Emperor. I don't desevre him.* But she couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to fall into the arms of bliss. She told herself there would never be anymore incidents as last night. She couldn't believe how unpracticle she had been.

"Mirakuru." Nuriko shook her shoulders a bite.

"Huh?!" Back to reality. "Oh, Nuriko! Hi!" She flashed him a very cheesy smile.

"Welcome back." He grinned. "And good morning!" He sat down with her in the grass.

"Good morning, Nuriko." She smiled sweetly this time. Letting out a long sigh she stretched out her tight muscles. Flipping her ponytail over her shoulder, Nuriko noticed it was tied very similar to the way Tamahome's was before it got cut off by Shiboshi. It swept down to below her waist and the rest of it was chin length and hanging into her eyes. "So why aren't you with the others?" She asked him.

"I'm not really hungery." He sighed deeply.

"What's the matter," she looked at him with her deep baby blues.

"Oh nothing." He let out another sigh.

"Uh-huh." She smirked and then stood up. "Ya know what. I really need to calm my nerves." She turned back at him and winked. "I'll be right over here," she pointed to a small, grassy opening.

"Okay." Nuriko let his thoughts drift as he lay back into the grass and closed his eyes. *Mirakuru... Such a beautiful girl. Why is she so afraid to let lose?*

*You don't want to see me let loose.* Mirakuru's thoughts melted with his.

*Why not?* He asked her telepathically.

*I would destroy everything.*

*I doubt that.* Nuriko let go of the mental connection and thought of his own insecruties. Kourin, his little sister, she was gone. He loved the Emperor, although he knew it would never be possible to love him, not really. And when he saw the pain in Mirakuru's eyes he was brought to tears. *Why does she feel so much hurt?* Slowly getting up he walked over to the spot where Mirakuru said she'd be. There she stood, her hands wrapped in a pray. There was something surrounding her, a power of some sort. A strong, bright, powerful aura. *Suzaku...*

He walked up to her without making a sound. Thinking he made it up to her silently, he noticed a firey determination in her face. The wind blew softly through her dark tresses of her hair and her bangs flew away from her face. He watched her with anticipation. Her energy level went to zero, almost like she was dead. "Nuriko..." She whispered his name and then she began to float in the air, only a few feet of the ground but Nuriko was very freaked out.

He drew back. "What in the world?!" He saw her hair fly up and her power level went up rapidly. Letting out a few grunts she released bursts of energy that looked like fire. And the whole area went red for a quick moment. Nuriko quickly shielded his face. He heard a quick cry and opened his eyes. He saw her sitting back in the grass completely content. "Wha!!!!!!!" He gonked at her, "What the hell?!"

"Much better," she smiled joyfully and closed her eyes. He fell backwards anime style and looked like a chibi. (AN: ^_^6)

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Daikonsen walked away from breakfast with some thoughts of her own. *This place is really cool. But can we pull of being Guardians of Suzaku. And what of Mira-chan? What's up with her. She hasn't been the same, cheery and playful, Mirakuru we all know and love. She's changed, or is just a new side of her, I haven't seen before. And if so, there is lot of anger inside of her that may be dangerous.* Her thoughts consumed her and she found herself looking for Tamahome. *There's something so... so... so... trusting about him. Handsome face, blue eyes, I'm sure warm arms, a body just waiting to be explored, and...* "Oh my!!" She covered her mouth. *I can't think that. I know the story of Miaka and Tamahome's love. I can't possibly be the one to end that. But his parents were killed by Shiboshi and he can't be with Miaka, atleast not now... I just want to confort him. This sounds so ridiculous and I hardly know him. But still I know him so well, I've read up to this point of the book and I know Tamahome's desires and insecurities and what he wants to do to Miaka if ever they were alone. If ever they get that chance... I make a promise here and know that I, Mahoto Daikonsen, will protect the Priestess of Suzaku, Lady Miaka and the Suzaku Seven with all that I have. Priestess, nothing will get by me that dares hurt you. I will honor and sevre my Priestess, and become a Guardian of Suzaku!*