The Secrets that Last
Chapter 10
The doorway to the zone was a swirling mass of crackling energy. Anyone could tell that a great deal of power and energy had been put into its making. As the Suzako seishi stood before it, anxiety seemed to hang heavy in the air. No one knew what to expect.
Several moments following its appearance, two figures began to form within the darkness, both broad shouldered and masculine. Finally Ren and Chichiri walked completely out of the Zone, stepping into the forest.
For a moment all was still, the rift between the two worlds having dissolved after delivering its cargo, and a deafening silence set in over the ten individuals.
Hotohori smiled. "Welcome back." He greeted.
Everyone relaxed.
Tasuki and Touji grinned and went to talk to Ren about what had happened in the last three days.
Miaka and Nuriko were in la la land, gazing longingly at Ren with huge hearts in their eyes while Tamahome steamed silently to himself.
Chichiri was in a daze. He looked around himself, seeing everything through both eyes. He saw all of his fellow seishi, Tama, Touji, and.Ren. He stared at the man beside him in something akin to awe. He knew that Usagi and Ren were the same person, but it still felt odd to him to realize that this handsome young man was in actuality the woman that held his heart. He unconsciously analyzed every detail of Ren's appearance. The eyes, the hair, those were the same. The creamy complexion that hinted at a foreign origin, that was the same. But it was Ren, not Usagi.
Ren glanced at him, their eyes clashing, and in that moment he knew, this was Usagi alright. Nobody else had ever looked at him like that. With so much passion and emotion within a simple glance.
Chichiri smiled to himself.
Miaka let out a squeal. "Chichiri-chan!" she cried. All eyes focused on the monk.
He looked at her. "Hai?"
"Your eye! It's been healed!" She ran up to him, poking at the lack of scar testily. Chichiri grew a huge sweat-drop.
"Uh-yeah.Usa-rrr, Ren healed it, no da." He managed between pokes.
Ren chuckled at the stares he received.
"It was part of his training." He shrugged. "Suzako rewarded Chichiri's hard work by purging his body of any scars or flaws."
Everyone continued to stare. "In any case," Ren continued. "The next door will open in about an hour. Have we decided who shall be next?"
Hotohori stepped forward. "I would like to go next." He stated, glaring at his fellow seishi to silence any objections.
Ren glanced at Touji and Tasuki, who nodded, and in turn nodded his own approval.
"Very well, in that case I suggest you make any personal preparations for our departure. You may wish to write a statement that would provide your people with proper instructions in case of an emergency." He suggested.
Hotohori stared at him, neither smiling nor frowning. "My council is well prepared for any extenuating circumstances that may come up. I have full confidence in their ability to handle things in my absence." It was stated cleanly, without challenge or aggression. A simple declaration.
Ren smirked. "A proud statement, your confidence is most assuring. As that is not necessary, I see no reason for you not to perform whatever menial activities you desire. Enjoy your last hour on this plane. Once you step into my world you will not be pampered or spoiled. Any royal ass kissers that you may be accustomed to surrounding you and carrying out your every whim will be nonexistent. I hope you realize that for a year you will have to take care of yourself. Everything you do will have consequences. I suggest you consider this carefully before you enter with me."
Hotohori glanced at Chichiri. "Chichiri, would you mind accompanying me for a walk?" he asked softly.
The wine-eyed monk nodded. "Of course, your majesty."
They walked away, leaving the group behind.
Ren turned to his two best friends. "Ne, care to fill me in?" He smiled.
Chibi-Tasuki grinned, flashing a peace sign. "Hai!"
Touji sweat-dropped at his friend's stupidity. "Baka."
Tasuki glared at him indignantly and crossed his arms over his chest. "Hey, you're not too bright yourself nii-san." He grumped.
Ren sighed. "How has your training been going?" he asked, his voice low.
Tasuki looked up at this. "Touji no baka is struggling more than I am." He stated.
"Iie!" Touji defended. "Am not! I just don't remember as much." He said a little softer.
Ren shrugged. "That is only to be expected. Of course I can not imagine you having remembered all of your training. I think that for the last three days of individual training I shall allow the two of you to come in together."
Touji frowned. "Do you really think that's such a good idea? I mean, shouldn't at least one of us stay to make sure that the Suzako seishi stay put? Who knows if they'll turn tail and run as soon as we're all in the Zone?"
Ren smiled mysteriously. "I know they wouldn't do that." He stated simply.
Tasuki grunted. "Don't you just hate it when he does that?" he grumbled.
Touji nodded in agreement, going chibi.
"Have you two attempted to calm that hot-headed Tamahome?" Ren asked, giving said person a bland look.
Tamahome was waving his hands in front of Miaka's dreamy eyes like a wild duck. He continued this, shouting and whining. He was rather amusing.
Tasuki and Touji sweat-dropped.
"Ne, actually.Iie." Tasuki grinned, slapping Touji on the back. "Demo, Touji-kun told me just yesterday that he was ready and willing to take on the challenge. Isn't that right Touji-kun?"
Touji glared daggers. "Well if I remember right, the agreement was that we would do it together." He growled.
Ren gazed at the two in slight amusement. "Good luck to you both then." He chuckled. "You're going to need it."
At this statement Touji and Tasuki slumped their shoulders like children having to take out the trash.
"Thanks a lot for the encouragement." Tasuki groaned.
"No problem." Ren flashed a peace sign.
Any more that might have been said was forgotten as a grinning Nuriko popped up beside Ren.
"Reeeeeeennnnnn-chaaaaaannnnnnnn!!!!!!" he cried, wrapping his arms around him.
Ren stiffened, paling and looking to his two friends helplessly.
Tasuki and Touji smiled evilly. "Hee, hee, hee, oh Tamahome?" Tasuki called in a sweet voice.
Ren grimaced. "I should have known that you two would hold that against me." He groaned.
Five minutes later poor Ren was turning slightly blue with Nuriko's vise- like grip still blocking his oxygen supply. It was then that Tasuki and Touji began prying away at Nuriko's leaching figure.to no avail.
*&*&*&*&*&*An hour or so later
Hotohori and Chichiri reappeared. They walked in an amiable silence, calm and steady. Ren smiled upon their arrival and raised his hand in greeting. Nuriko pouted. After being forcibly removed, the seishi had been put him in time out. He now sat on a tree stump, arms crossed, pouting pathetically.
"Did you have to return so soon?" He asked hotly, giving Ren a meaningful glance.
Hotohori and Chichiri grinned.
"Gomen Nuriko-kun. Are we ready Ren-kun?" Hotohori asked.
The blonde nodded, standing beside the others now. Miaka got all teary eyed.
"Hotohori-chan! I'll miss you!" she sniffed.
He smiled calmly. "Ne, Miaka-chan, you'll have Tamahome-kun here to protect you. No worries."
Tamahome waved with a grin. "Have fun!"
Ren gave Tasuki and Touji a small smile.
"My friends, stay strong. I will return in three days."
They nodded.
Ren walked toward the forest wall before raising his hand as he had before. He closed his eyes.
"Powers of ancient gods and prophets. Hear my prayer and open the door to this world's sub-dimension." Once more the black and silver began to swirl together before his extended hand in a huge mass of energy and power. Everyone watched as the portal began to form a doorway.
"Worlds colliding on this mortal plane, I call upon you that you may meet with my shield and open the door to your realm. Holy lords of all that lives, allow me to pass through your gates once more and enter the training realm where men are made warriors true."
The portal reached completion and Chichiri smiled at the now familiar hum of power.
Before he hadn't taken note, but now he could feel the comforting warmth that radiated from Ren's aura, filling him with comfort and security.
Hotohori hesitated as Ren stepped toward the portal.
"It's ready. Hotohori?"
The emperor swallowed, a brave determination lighting his eyes. He glanced at Chichiri. The monk gave him a reassuring smile.
"I'm ready."
"Good, ja ne minna-chan!" Ren called, approaching the portal beside Hotohori.
"Take care!"
"Ja ne Hoto-chan!!!!" Miaka yelled.
"Ja Ren-kun!!!!" Tasuki, Touji, Nuriko, and Miaka added.
Chichiri's eyes misted over. "Usa-chan, for this time without you, your presence shall be missed. I can't believe that the year is already over. I hope you are able to train Hotohori as well as you have trained me. Ja ne, aishiteru." He thought silently.
The two figures leapt into the swirling energy, disappearing into its mysterious depths.
Immediately Chichiri was pounced on.
"So what happened?"
"Was he hard on you?"
"Was it really a year?"
"How did he heal your eye?"
Questions fired at him from all directions and Chichiri swallowed. He sweat- dropped.
"I should have anticipated this." He sighed. "Oh well," he slowly began to answer their questions one by one.
Meanwhile, Tasuki and Touji had tugged Tamahome to the side.
"Nani?" He asked.
Tasuki grinned, glancing at an equally fake grinning Touji.
"Ne, ya see Tama-kun..we wanted you to um..ya know.."
"What he's tryin' to say is you wanna practice with us?"
Tamahome blinked at them. ".sure..."
"Ok! That's great! That was it! See ya!" Tasuki dragged Touji away with a huge sweat-drop running down his head.
Tamahome stood there for a moment, blank. He gave them a suspicious- sarcastic look.
"That was weird."
*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*In the Zone
Hotohori felt something shaking him. He moaned softly, feeling his body aching with the effort to move. The shaking was becoming annoying. He forced one eye open, using it to glare at the cause of his discomfort.
Ren peered down at him from a yoga-like position in front of him. Hotohori caught himself, remembering what had happened.
"Oh! Ren-kun, did we make it?" he asked slowly. He forced himself into a sitting position, taking in his surroundings. They were in what looked like a training yard. It was located between two hills and there was a beam near one hillside with a loaded sword rack and other equipment nearby. Currently Hotohori sat before a cross-legged Ren.
Ren nodded. "Hai, we are now in the Zone."
Hotohori frowned, looking around at the sunny arena. "It is certainly not what I had expected." He said matter-of-factly.
Ren nodded again. "That is to be understood. If Chichiri told you his own experience then it is understandable that you would assume to be subjected to similar surroundings. In actuality however, you will find your training to be quite different from what Chichiri may have predicted."
Hotohori stood up, brushing himself off.
"Very well. When shall we begin?" he asked.
Ren smirked. "Right now. Task number one, retrieve this sword." He stood and pulled out the most magnificent sword Hotohori had ever laid eyes on. The weapon's case was a deep scarlet with gold designs in it. Intricate Chinese dragons, birds, and beasts covered the item. He tugged the sword from its sheath, revealing a long silver blade, elegant and slender, yet sharp and deadly. The handle was pure gold, with rubies surrounding a phoenix carving. The sword was most magnificent. Hotohori reached for it.
"Iie, Iie. Not yet." Ren smirked, putting the weapon in its case and locking it. He looked at Hotohori.
"Watch,"
Ren turned around, and then ran swiftly toward the mountain, soundlessly drawing the sword from its sheath and burying the blade deep within the hillside.
Hotohori's eyes widened.
Ren turned to him.
"The rules are simple. You must not make a sound in performing this task. The key to retrieving the sword is stealth and I will show you why." He waved his hand.
The sword was immediately surrounded by five frozen monsters, each with its own uniquely hideous appearance.
"These youma will stop at nothing to keep you from this sword. Your goal should be to destroy them one by one or all at once and then retrieve the sword without a sound. If you defeat the youma, I will help you to accomplish the soundless retrieval. But first, I'll leave you to take care of these creatures. Good luck now!" Ren disappeared in a flurry of blue sparkles.
No sooner had the handsome warrior disappeared then the youma had awakened from their seeming dead freeze and Hotohori took a fighting stance.
"Kuso, Chichiri warned me about this." He mumbled, taking out his own sword and preparing for battle.
*&*&*&*Somewhere in a misty plane
Usagi watched Hotohori through a large window mirror. The four gods stood several steps behind her, gazing at the image as well with mild interest, though boredom was quite obviously present in their stance.
"Usa-chan," Suzako beckoned, his voice a warm tone.
Usagi's gaze never faltered as she replied. "Hai Suzu-chan?"
Suzako came up behind her, wrapping his arms around her tiny waste.
"We should go now. It's up to him what happens now." He closed his eyes, taking in the scent of roses that radiated from the girl in his arms.
Byakko looked away from them, glaring at Seiryuu, who looked a little pissed.
"Usa-chan, let's go." Seiryuu's chilling voice came out short and clipped.
Usagi sighed, pulling gently from Suzako's embrace and turning around. She walked with her four companions into the mist to come upon a post. It was a bird post.
"Cye-chan?" Usagi called into the mist.
"Hai?" The bird soared down soundlessly, alighting on the post's branch. He eyed Usagi with a calm demeanor.
"How are things?" she asked softly, her voice so silvery and warm that her mortality seemed nearly nonexistent.
The four gods stood around her, Suzako and Genbu by her sides.
Cye did a bird-like shrug. "Simply not good enough." He stated. "If Chaos doesn't slow down his steadily increasing pace will have him attacking us before the month's end. You must stall him immediately." He spoke in a clear monotone.
Usagi glanced at the gods. "Genbu?" she asked.
He nodded. "I will attempt to stall him with my seishi. I shall send them to retrieve as much energy as possible."
"Byakko?"
The silvery-haired man nodded, his bewitching eyes riveted on Usagi's own.
"Then it's settled. You two shall slow Chaos's progress. I will return to Hotohori and train him. When he is finished I'll take the others one by one, as planned. I can take Mitsukake and Chiriko in for half a year, a day and a half, instead of the full year. It's not much, but it may help a little."
They all nodded in agreement.
"Ja ne minna-chan!" Usagi dissolved into the mist in a flourish of ice blue and silver petals.
The four gods gazed at where she had been.
"We should commence." Suzako said softly. Byakko and Genbu disappeared in a wild show of silver and green sparkles.
Seiryuu glanced at him. "Suzako, we should prepare the dreams for my seishi. Do you want to help?" he asked after the others had disappeared.
Suzako shrugged. "Sure Seiryuu, let's make sure they're clear."
The two disappeared in their own show of sparkles.
*&*&*&*
Hotohori grunted as the last youma disintegrated into thin air. He allowed himself to fall to his knees, falling over to close his eyes in a false sleep.
"That was harder than I'd expected." He mused.
"Ne, very good Hotohori-san. Not a single scratch on you." Ren's voice broke through Hotohori's thoughts.
He looked up at the blonde man and shaded his eyes with his hand. "Ne, Ren- san, I'm ready to retrieve the sword." He said simply.
Ren nodded, giving him a hand up.
"Very well. It is truly a simple task. I have learned that it is more often easier for the learner to see an example before attempting themselves, so therefore I shall show you just what it is that you are expected to do. Observe." Ren stood before a wall of rock that Hotohori hadn't really taken note of before. He stood with his feat apart, fists clenched at his sides.
"You will feel the energy rippling through your being as you concentrate on your task. Think of what you want to happen, and it will. I want you to feel that pendant I gave you becoming so cold it burns." He declared.
"Now, this is a simple spell. It can only be cast by you and me because I am the teacher and you are the Water Stone Carrier."
Ren began to glow and he raised his hands in one swift movement, opening them suddenly with his palms to the rock.
"Aqua Silent Rhapsody!" His voice was a haunting whisper. The blue glow surrounding him swarmed to his open palms. At the last word, the blue erupted in a silent ball of energy that hit the rocks like lightening. No sooner had the energy ball landed then the rock cracked, forming a small trickle of water.
"All you have to do is want the water to retrieve the sword and it will. Understand?" Ren smiled.
Hotohori nodded. He stood before the partly visible sword. He took several deep breaths and concentrated on the sword. He began to glow a deep sapphire and his eyes flashed violet-gold. The pendant, glowing a bright sapphire itself, began to pulse and press into his chest. Hotohori hardly noticed as he focused all of his energy on retrieving the sword.
"Aqua Silent Rhapsody!" He whisper-yelled. The glow that surrounded him followed through with the order and swarmed about his extended hands. The same orb from before appeared and silently attacked the stone wall. Hotohori screamed suddenly as the spell hit the wall, cracking it to allow a trickle of water out. The pain in his chest was too much! He found it hard to breathe and looked at Ren helplessly.
"Ren," he choked. "What's happening?"
Ren sighed as the water brought the sword out of the rock and set it gently before Hotohori.
"Hoto-chan," He waved his hand at the sun and darkness covered the area. A power numbing to the senses enveloped his body in sparkles and Hotohori had to close his eyes against the light.
When Hotohori opened his eyes Usagi stood in Ren's place gazing at him serenely, sparkles fading about her.
"What magic is this?" he whispered in shock.
Usagi smiled at him sadly. "Hoto-chan, I am Ren and Usagi. My true form is what you see now, but I was cursed a long time ago and by day I am forced to wear the mask of a man while I am freed at night to be myself."
"Demo-" Hotohori began, caught himself, and nodded. This must have been the big shock that Chichiri had mentioned. His little bunny was the all powerful Ren? No wonder Chichiri wouldn't tell him what it was, he would never have believed this one unless he had seen it with his own two eyes. He almost felt ill to his stomach.
"Well at least I won't have to worry about missing my Usa-chan." he thought dully.
"The pain you're feeling is your body accepting the power that it lost so long ago. It's so accustomed though, to the lack of strength and energy that it's causing a painful shock to your system. I'm sorry, but when any seishi is born in to your realm, any excess powers that are not needed are taken and stored in a stone like the one I gave you. Chichiri found this hard to believe too, so I won't be surprised if you need some time to consider this."
Hotohori shook his head, clamping his eyes closed against the burning in his chest.
"How do I make it stop?" he ground out, barely noticing his pathetic tone.
Usagi smiled, remembering Chichiri for a moment. She missed him.
"It's not too difficult. You must train and as I teach you several more spells and techniques the pain will eventually fade. Your body just has to get used to your full power being reached so suddenly."
Hotohori reached to take up the sword lying before him and used it to pull himself up.
"Then train me." He said simply.
Usagi smiled and nodded. Enough thoughts of Chichiri, she had a new responsibility standing before her right now. She would have to concentrate on him.
"First, we'll begin with a simple tsunami. Higher power spells are much easier for you because they don't involve too much control."
And so it began once more. Usagi trained Hotohori in all styles of swordsmanship. She taught him how to use the powers of his element and gave him the encouragement he needed to stay on. She treated him with brutal honesty and he learned quickly that there was no such thing as "not in the mood". Usagi worked rather closely with him in order to appropriate the attack stances and such so it was of no surprise that Hotohori began to consider the option of keeping her. Any affection that he had previously felt for her was nothing in comparison to what he felt now. Although Miaka lingered in the back of his mind, Usagi had shown him that that was no more than a simple brotherly love that he felt due to over protectiveness. He was inwardly afraid of one thing and one thing alone when it came to his duty as a seishi. Failure. Usagi had shown him though that fear of failure was completely natural but in reality the only cure to this fear was the idea of absolute perfection. She had explained that there was in existence only one being who did not share this fear. He had often asked about this being, though all of his efforts resulted in simple dismissal. It was at last time to face his final opponent. He was ready. And he would not allow his love for her to blind his judgment, for he knew very well that defeat was inevitable against her. Usagi would fight him until the year's end. She would eventually win, he knew, but he would give one hell of a fight.
Hotohori sat patiently on the grassy hillside. His sword rested against his chest. He had his eyes closed but as a gentle breeze blew against his cheeks he opened them to see Usagi standing before him. She wore a pair of silver fighter pants with a black tank top and belt. Her black calf-length boots were laced up the front and her hair was in a braid with black binding. She wore silver cuffs and arm bands and at her side hung a deadly weapon. Hotohori had known for a long time that the power behind her sword came from her alone, but he continued even now to gaze at the long, slender blade with a great deal of apprehension. As if this weapon alone was the deliverer.
Usagi smiled slightly at him. "Hoto-chan, it is time for your final test in the completion of your training."
He rose to his feet, nodding in understanding.
"You will fight me until the years end. We have two months remaining."
"I am prepared to battle you with the acquired skills and training you have granted me. I am ready to fight."
Usagi nodded her approval, a bit of pride in her eyes. "Good. Then let it begin. We shall fight with our swords and powers. Get ready!" She took a fighting stance and lunged.
Hotohori barely managed to avoid the first attack and went on the defensive. Swords clashed with shrill ear-splitting cracks and sparks flew from the vicious blades. Usagi smiled to herself, recalling the first time she had to face Chichiri one on one.
He had been so reluctant at first and though he hid it, she could tell that he did not wish to fight her. She had not placed any expectations on him, nor did she now with Hotohori, but she almost wished to see her dear Chichiri once more. A year in his company had given her a refreshing realization that not all men were created to believe women weak, and Hotohori was in agreement with this as well. Although Chichiri had accepted her and Ren to be one a great deal quicker than Hotohori.
Hotohori took the distraction to his advantage, switching the sides to put Usagi on the defensive and she was brought crashing back to reality. Usagi's eyes narrowed and she focused on her task.
"This shall last at least a month and a half, I am prepared to fight till the very end though." Hotohori thought.
*&*&*&*&*&*&*&*Almost two months later
Time for the two warriors had no meaning. They had fought for the past two months without distraction and it was a stunning battle to say the least. The fighters had obtained bruises and minor injuries throughout the battle but Usagi was by far better off than the exhausted Hotohori. Usagi calmly stepped to avoid his final lunge, a sad attempt to end the fight. She smiled at his collapsed figure and sadly knelt beside him.
"Hoto-chan," she spoke for the first time since they had begun the fight and Hotohori barely smiled at the sweet sound of silver chimes.
"I'm afraid that I've kept something from you." She said softly, taking his hand in her tiny one.
His eyes asked the question.
"You are weaker now than anyone should be under the circumstances. It is due to a cursed illness that you acquired as a child." She spoke gently and with precision.
Hotohori looked thoroughly confused. "Nani?"
Usagi sighed. "You have a disorder that causes you to tire faster than a normal person should. But because of your being a seishi you were granted the tolerance of a normal person."
Hotohori looked almost frightened at this revelation, for he knew Usagi spoke no lies.
"What does this mean?" he asked after a moment.
Usagi smiled. "It is simply time that you understand why you tired so quickly in the fight. Now Suzako will purge your body and mind of any faults. Your illness will be taken care of, as well as any scars and such."
Usagi stood up and began to glow a soft silver-blue hue. She helped him to his feet and wound her arms around his neck. Vaguely Hotohori wondered how even after the strenuous battle she somehow managed to attain the scent of roses and rain. He did not understand what was happening, nor did he attempt to, but the next thing he knew Usagi had pulled him to her in the gentlest kiss he had ever tasted. She tasted like strawberries.
Hotohori felt his body growing stronger. He felt his weakness fading and he opened his eyes to find himself surrounded in white. Ren hovered beside him and crossed his arms over his chest.
"Hotohori-san," Ren began, grinning. "It is time to return to your fellow seishi."
Hotohori looked down to realize that he wore brand new clothing, fine silk garments with patterns of Suzako sewn into the fabric. A silver sash around his waste went nicely with the white material and silver designs and brand new black calf boots covered his feet. His gold hued eyes gazed at Ren in odd fascination.
Ren smiled again. "The gods have granted you peace." He announced. "Let's go."
A portal appeared to their right and together the men walked through. Silent companions until they reached their waiting friends.
Chapter 10
The doorway to the zone was a swirling mass of crackling energy. Anyone could tell that a great deal of power and energy had been put into its making. As the Suzako seishi stood before it, anxiety seemed to hang heavy in the air. No one knew what to expect.
Several moments following its appearance, two figures began to form within the darkness, both broad shouldered and masculine. Finally Ren and Chichiri walked completely out of the Zone, stepping into the forest.
For a moment all was still, the rift between the two worlds having dissolved after delivering its cargo, and a deafening silence set in over the ten individuals.
Hotohori smiled. "Welcome back." He greeted.
Everyone relaxed.
Tasuki and Touji grinned and went to talk to Ren about what had happened in the last three days.
Miaka and Nuriko were in la la land, gazing longingly at Ren with huge hearts in their eyes while Tamahome steamed silently to himself.
Chichiri was in a daze. He looked around himself, seeing everything through both eyes. He saw all of his fellow seishi, Tama, Touji, and.Ren. He stared at the man beside him in something akin to awe. He knew that Usagi and Ren were the same person, but it still felt odd to him to realize that this handsome young man was in actuality the woman that held his heart. He unconsciously analyzed every detail of Ren's appearance. The eyes, the hair, those were the same. The creamy complexion that hinted at a foreign origin, that was the same. But it was Ren, not Usagi.
Ren glanced at him, their eyes clashing, and in that moment he knew, this was Usagi alright. Nobody else had ever looked at him like that. With so much passion and emotion within a simple glance.
Chichiri smiled to himself.
Miaka let out a squeal. "Chichiri-chan!" she cried. All eyes focused on the monk.
He looked at her. "Hai?"
"Your eye! It's been healed!" She ran up to him, poking at the lack of scar testily. Chichiri grew a huge sweat-drop.
"Uh-yeah.Usa-rrr, Ren healed it, no da." He managed between pokes.
Ren chuckled at the stares he received.
"It was part of his training." He shrugged. "Suzako rewarded Chichiri's hard work by purging his body of any scars or flaws."
Everyone continued to stare. "In any case," Ren continued. "The next door will open in about an hour. Have we decided who shall be next?"
Hotohori stepped forward. "I would like to go next." He stated, glaring at his fellow seishi to silence any objections.
Ren glanced at Touji and Tasuki, who nodded, and in turn nodded his own approval.
"Very well, in that case I suggest you make any personal preparations for our departure. You may wish to write a statement that would provide your people with proper instructions in case of an emergency." He suggested.
Hotohori stared at him, neither smiling nor frowning. "My council is well prepared for any extenuating circumstances that may come up. I have full confidence in their ability to handle things in my absence." It was stated cleanly, without challenge or aggression. A simple declaration.
Ren smirked. "A proud statement, your confidence is most assuring. As that is not necessary, I see no reason for you not to perform whatever menial activities you desire. Enjoy your last hour on this plane. Once you step into my world you will not be pampered or spoiled. Any royal ass kissers that you may be accustomed to surrounding you and carrying out your every whim will be nonexistent. I hope you realize that for a year you will have to take care of yourself. Everything you do will have consequences. I suggest you consider this carefully before you enter with me."
Hotohori glanced at Chichiri. "Chichiri, would you mind accompanying me for a walk?" he asked softly.
The wine-eyed monk nodded. "Of course, your majesty."
They walked away, leaving the group behind.
Ren turned to his two best friends. "Ne, care to fill me in?" He smiled.
Chibi-Tasuki grinned, flashing a peace sign. "Hai!"
Touji sweat-dropped at his friend's stupidity. "Baka."
Tasuki glared at him indignantly and crossed his arms over his chest. "Hey, you're not too bright yourself nii-san." He grumped.
Ren sighed. "How has your training been going?" he asked, his voice low.
Tasuki looked up at this. "Touji no baka is struggling more than I am." He stated.
"Iie!" Touji defended. "Am not! I just don't remember as much." He said a little softer.
Ren shrugged. "That is only to be expected. Of course I can not imagine you having remembered all of your training. I think that for the last three days of individual training I shall allow the two of you to come in together."
Touji frowned. "Do you really think that's such a good idea? I mean, shouldn't at least one of us stay to make sure that the Suzako seishi stay put? Who knows if they'll turn tail and run as soon as we're all in the Zone?"
Ren smiled mysteriously. "I know they wouldn't do that." He stated simply.
Tasuki grunted. "Don't you just hate it when he does that?" he grumbled.
Touji nodded in agreement, going chibi.
"Have you two attempted to calm that hot-headed Tamahome?" Ren asked, giving said person a bland look.
Tamahome was waving his hands in front of Miaka's dreamy eyes like a wild duck. He continued this, shouting and whining. He was rather amusing.
Tasuki and Touji sweat-dropped.
"Ne, actually.Iie." Tasuki grinned, slapping Touji on the back. "Demo, Touji-kun told me just yesterday that he was ready and willing to take on the challenge. Isn't that right Touji-kun?"
Touji glared daggers. "Well if I remember right, the agreement was that we would do it together." He growled.
Ren gazed at the two in slight amusement. "Good luck to you both then." He chuckled. "You're going to need it."
At this statement Touji and Tasuki slumped their shoulders like children having to take out the trash.
"Thanks a lot for the encouragement." Tasuki groaned.
"No problem." Ren flashed a peace sign.
Any more that might have been said was forgotten as a grinning Nuriko popped up beside Ren.
"Reeeeeeennnnnn-chaaaaaannnnnnnn!!!!!!" he cried, wrapping his arms around him.
Ren stiffened, paling and looking to his two friends helplessly.
Tasuki and Touji smiled evilly. "Hee, hee, hee, oh Tamahome?" Tasuki called in a sweet voice.
Ren grimaced. "I should have known that you two would hold that against me." He groaned.
Five minutes later poor Ren was turning slightly blue with Nuriko's vise- like grip still blocking his oxygen supply. It was then that Tasuki and Touji began prying away at Nuriko's leaching figure.to no avail.
*&*&*&*&*&*An hour or so later
Hotohori and Chichiri reappeared. They walked in an amiable silence, calm and steady. Ren smiled upon their arrival and raised his hand in greeting. Nuriko pouted. After being forcibly removed, the seishi had been put him in time out. He now sat on a tree stump, arms crossed, pouting pathetically.
"Did you have to return so soon?" He asked hotly, giving Ren a meaningful glance.
Hotohori and Chichiri grinned.
"Gomen Nuriko-kun. Are we ready Ren-kun?" Hotohori asked.
The blonde nodded, standing beside the others now. Miaka got all teary eyed.
"Hotohori-chan! I'll miss you!" she sniffed.
He smiled calmly. "Ne, Miaka-chan, you'll have Tamahome-kun here to protect you. No worries."
Tamahome waved with a grin. "Have fun!"
Ren gave Tasuki and Touji a small smile.
"My friends, stay strong. I will return in three days."
They nodded.
Ren walked toward the forest wall before raising his hand as he had before. He closed his eyes.
"Powers of ancient gods and prophets. Hear my prayer and open the door to this world's sub-dimension." Once more the black and silver began to swirl together before his extended hand in a huge mass of energy and power. Everyone watched as the portal began to form a doorway.
"Worlds colliding on this mortal plane, I call upon you that you may meet with my shield and open the door to your realm. Holy lords of all that lives, allow me to pass through your gates once more and enter the training realm where men are made warriors true."
The portal reached completion and Chichiri smiled at the now familiar hum of power.
Before he hadn't taken note, but now he could feel the comforting warmth that radiated from Ren's aura, filling him with comfort and security.
Hotohori hesitated as Ren stepped toward the portal.
"It's ready. Hotohori?"
The emperor swallowed, a brave determination lighting his eyes. He glanced at Chichiri. The monk gave him a reassuring smile.
"I'm ready."
"Good, ja ne minna-chan!" Ren called, approaching the portal beside Hotohori.
"Take care!"
"Ja ne Hoto-chan!!!!" Miaka yelled.
"Ja Ren-kun!!!!" Tasuki, Touji, Nuriko, and Miaka added.
Chichiri's eyes misted over. "Usa-chan, for this time without you, your presence shall be missed. I can't believe that the year is already over. I hope you are able to train Hotohori as well as you have trained me. Ja ne, aishiteru." He thought silently.
The two figures leapt into the swirling energy, disappearing into its mysterious depths.
Immediately Chichiri was pounced on.
"So what happened?"
"Was he hard on you?"
"Was it really a year?"
"How did he heal your eye?"
Questions fired at him from all directions and Chichiri swallowed. He sweat- dropped.
"I should have anticipated this." He sighed. "Oh well," he slowly began to answer their questions one by one.
Meanwhile, Tasuki and Touji had tugged Tamahome to the side.
"Nani?" He asked.
Tasuki grinned, glancing at an equally fake grinning Touji.
"Ne, ya see Tama-kun..we wanted you to um..ya know.."
"What he's tryin' to say is you wanna practice with us?"
Tamahome blinked at them. ".sure..."
"Ok! That's great! That was it! See ya!" Tasuki dragged Touji away with a huge sweat-drop running down his head.
Tamahome stood there for a moment, blank. He gave them a suspicious- sarcastic look.
"That was weird."
*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*In the Zone
Hotohori felt something shaking him. He moaned softly, feeling his body aching with the effort to move. The shaking was becoming annoying. He forced one eye open, using it to glare at the cause of his discomfort.
Ren peered down at him from a yoga-like position in front of him. Hotohori caught himself, remembering what had happened.
"Oh! Ren-kun, did we make it?" he asked slowly. He forced himself into a sitting position, taking in his surroundings. They were in what looked like a training yard. It was located between two hills and there was a beam near one hillside with a loaded sword rack and other equipment nearby. Currently Hotohori sat before a cross-legged Ren.
Ren nodded. "Hai, we are now in the Zone."
Hotohori frowned, looking around at the sunny arena. "It is certainly not what I had expected." He said matter-of-factly.
Ren nodded again. "That is to be understood. If Chichiri told you his own experience then it is understandable that you would assume to be subjected to similar surroundings. In actuality however, you will find your training to be quite different from what Chichiri may have predicted."
Hotohori stood up, brushing himself off.
"Very well. When shall we begin?" he asked.
Ren smirked. "Right now. Task number one, retrieve this sword." He stood and pulled out the most magnificent sword Hotohori had ever laid eyes on. The weapon's case was a deep scarlet with gold designs in it. Intricate Chinese dragons, birds, and beasts covered the item. He tugged the sword from its sheath, revealing a long silver blade, elegant and slender, yet sharp and deadly. The handle was pure gold, with rubies surrounding a phoenix carving. The sword was most magnificent. Hotohori reached for it.
"Iie, Iie. Not yet." Ren smirked, putting the weapon in its case and locking it. He looked at Hotohori.
"Watch,"
Ren turned around, and then ran swiftly toward the mountain, soundlessly drawing the sword from its sheath and burying the blade deep within the hillside.
Hotohori's eyes widened.
Ren turned to him.
"The rules are simple. You must not make a sound in performing this task. The key to retrieving the sword is stealth and I will show you why." He waved his hand.
The sword was immediately surrounded by five frozen monsters, each with its own uniquely hideous appearance.
"These youma will stop at nothing to keep you from this sword. Your goal should be to destroy them one by one or all at once and then retrieve the sword without a sound. If you defeat the youma, I will help you to accomplish the soundless retrieval. But first, I'll leave you to take care of these creatures. Good luck now!" Ren disappeared in a flurry of blue sparkles.
No sooner had the handsome warrior disappeared then the youma had awakened from their seeming dead freeze and Hotohori took a fighting stance.
"Kuso, Chichiri warned me about this." He mumbled, taking out his own sword and preparing for battle.
*&*&*&*Somewhere in a misty plane
Usagi watched Hotohori through a large window mirror. The four gods stood several steps behind her, gazing at the image as well with mild interest, though boredom was quite obviously present in their stance.
"Usa-chan," Suzako beckoned, his voice a warm tone.
Usagi's gaze never faltered as she replied. "Hai Suzu-chan?"
Suzako came up behind her, wrapping his arms around her tiny waste.
"We should go now. It's up to him what happens now." He closed his eyes, taking in the scent of roses that radiated from the girl in his arms.
Byakko looked away from them, glaring at Seiryuu, who looked a little pissed.
"Usa-chan, let's go." Seiryuu's chilling voice came out short and clipped.
Usagi sighed, pulling gently from Suzako's embrace and turning around. She walked with her four companions into the mist to come upon a post. It was a bird post.
"Cye-chan?" Usagi called into the mist.
"Hai?" The bird soared down soundlessly, alighting on the post's branch. He eyed Usagi with a calm demeanor.
"How are things?" she asked softly, her voice so silvery and warm that her mortality seemed nearly nonexistent.
The four gods stood around her, Suzako and Genbu by her sides.
Cye did a bird-like shrug. "Simply not good enough." He stated. "If Chaos doesn't slow down his steadily increasing pace will have him attacking us before the month's end. You must stall him immediately." He spoke in a clear monotone.
Usagi glanced at the gods. "Genbu?" she asked.
He nodded. "I will attempt to stall him with my seishi. I shall send them to retrieve as much energy as possible."
"Byakko?"
The silvery-haired man nodded, his bewitching eyes riveted on Usagi's own.
"Then it's settled. You two shall slow Chaos's progress. I will return to Hotohori and train him. When he is finished I'll take the others one by one, as planned. I can take Mitsukake and Chiriko in for half a year, a day and a half, instead of the full year. It's not much, but it may help a little."
They all nodded in agreement.
"Ja ne minna-chan!" Usagi dissolved into the mist in a flourish of ice blue and silver petals.
The four gods gazed at where she had been.
"We should commence." Suzako said softly. Byakko and Genbu disappeared in a wild show of silver and green sparkles.
Seiryuu glanced at him. "Suzako, we should prepare the dreams for my seishi. Do you want to help?" he asked after the others had disappeared.
Suzako shrugged. "Sure Seiryuu, let's make sure they're clear."
The two disappeared in their own show of sparkles.
*&*&*&*
Hotohori grunted as the last youma disintegrated into thin air. He allowed himself to fall to his knees, falling over to close his eyes in a false sleep.
"That was harder than I'd expected." He mused.
"Ne, very good Hotohori-san. Not a single scratch on you." Ren's voice broke through Hotohori's thoughts.
He looked up at the blonde man and shaded his eyes with his hand. "Ne, Ren- san, I'm ready to retrieve the sword." He said simply.
Ren nodded, giving him a hand up.
"Very well. It is truly a simple task. I have learned that it is more often easier for the learner to see an example before attempting themselves, so therefore I shall show you just what it is that you are expected to do. Observe." Ren stood before a wall of rock that Hotohori hadn't really taken note of before. He stood with his feat apart, fists clenched at his sides.
"You will feel the energy rippling through your being as you concentrate on your task. Think of what you want to happen, and it will. I want you to feel that pendant I gave you becoming so cold it burns." He declared.
"Now, this is a simple spell. It can only be cast by you and me because I am the teacher and you are the Water Stone Carrier."
Ren began to glow and he raised his hands in one swift movement, opening them suddenly with his palms to the rock.
"Aqua Silent Rhapsody!" His voice was a haunting whisper. The blue glow surrounding him swarmed to his open palms. At the last word, the blue erupted in a silent ball of energy that hit the rocks like lightening. No sooner had the energy ball landed then the rock cracked, forming a small trickle of water.
"All you have to do is want the water to retrieve the sword and it will. Understand?" Ren smiled.
Hotohori nodded. He stood before the partly visible sword. He took several deep breaths and concentrated on the sword. He began to glow a deep sapphire and his eyes flashed violet-gold. The pendant, glowing a bright sapphire itself, began to pulse and press into his chest. Hotohori hardly noticed as he focused all of his energy on retrieving the sword.
"Aqua Silent Rhapsody!" He whisper-yelled. The glow that surrounded him followed through with the order and swarmed about his extended hands. The same orb from before appeared and silently attacked the stone wall. Hotohori screamed suddenly as the spell hit the wall, cracking it to allow a trickle of water out. The pain in his chest was too much! He found it hard to breathe and looked at Ren helplessly.
"Ren," he choked. "What's happening?"
Ren sighed as the water brought the sword out of the rock and set it gently before Hotohori.
"Hoto-chan," He waved his hand at the sun and darkness covered the area. A power numbing to the senses enveloped his body in sparkles and Hotohori had to close his eyes against the light.
When Hotohori opened his eyes Usagi stood in Ren's place gazing at him serenely, sparkles fading about her.
"What magic is this?" he whispered in shock.
Usagi smiled at him sadly. "Hoto-chan, I am Ren and Usagi. My true form is what you see now, but I was cursed a long time ago and by day I am forced to wear the mask of a man while I am freed at night to be myself."
"Demo-" Hotohori began, caught himself, and nodded. This must have been the big shock that Chichiri had mentioned. His little bunny was the all powerful Ren? No wonder Chichiri wouldn't tell him what it was, he would never have believed this one unless he had seen it with his own two eyes. He almost felt ill to his stomach.
"Well at least I won't have to worry about missing my Usa-chan." he thought dully.
"The pain you're feeling is your body accepting the power that it lost so long ago. It's so accustomed though, to the lack of strength and energy that it's causing a painful shock to your system. I'm sorry, but when any seishi is born in to your realm, any excess powers that are not needed are taken and stored in a stone like the one I gave you. Chichiri found this hard to believe too, so I won't be surprised if you need some time to consider this."
Hotohori shook his head, clamping his eyes closed against the burning in his chest.
"How do I make it stop?" he ground out, barely noticing his pathetic tone.
Usagi smiled, remembering Chichiri for a moment. She missed him.
"It's not too difficult. You must train and as I teach you several more spells and techniques the pain will eventually fade. Your body just has to get used to your full power being reached so suddenly."
Hotohori reached to take up the sword lying before him and used it to pull himself up.
"Then train me." He said simply.
Usagi smiled and nodded. Enough thoughts of Chichiri, she had a new responsibility standing before her right now. She would have to concentrate on him.
"First, we'll begin with a simple tsunami. Higher power spells are much easier for you because they don't involve too much control."
And so it began once more. Usagi trained Hotohori in all styles of swordsmanship. She taught him how to use the powers of his element and gave him the encouragement he needed to stay on. She treated him with brutal honesty and he learned quickly that there was no such thing as "not in the mood". Usagi worked rather closely with him in order to appropriate the attack stances and such so it was of no surprise that Hotohori began to consider the option of keeping her. Any affection that he had previously felt for her was nothing in comparison to what he felt now. Although Miaka lingered in the back of his mind, Usagi had shown him that that was no more than a simple brotherly love that he felt due to over protectiveness. He was inwardly afraid of one thing and one thing alone when it came to his duty as a seishi. Failure. Usagi had shown him though that fear of failure was completely natural but in reality the only cure to this fear was the idea of absolute perfection. She had explained that there was in existence only one being who did not share this fear. He had often asked about this being, though all of his efforts resulted in simple dismissal. It was at last time to face his final opponent. He was ready. And he would not allow his love for her to blind his judgment, for he knew very well that defeat was inevitable against her. Usagi would fight him until the year's end. She would eventually win, he knew, but he would give one hell of a fight.
Hotohori sat patiently on the grassy hillside. His sword rested against his chest. He had his eyes closed but as a gentle breeze blew against his cheeks he opened them to see Usagi standing before him. She wore a pair of silver fighter pants with a black tank top and belt. Her black calf-length boots were laced up the front and her hair was in a braid with black binding. She wore silver cuffs and arm bands and at her side hung a deadly weapon. Hotohori had known for a long time that the power behind her sword came from her alone, but he continued even now to gaze at the long, slender blade with a great deal of apprehension. As if this weapon alone was the deliverer.
Usagi smiled slightly at him. "Hoto-chan, it is time for your final test in the completion of your training."
He rose to his feet, nodding in understanding.
"You will fight me until the years end. We have two months remaining."
"I am prepared to battle you with the acquired skills and training you have granted me. I am ready to fight."
Usagi nodded her approval, a bit of pride in her eyes. "Good. Then let it begin. We shall fight with our swords and powers. Get ready!" She took a fighting stance and lunged.
Hotohori barely managed to avoid the first attack and went on the defensive. Swords clashed with shrill ear-splitting cracks and sparks flew from the vicious blades. Usagi smiled to herself, recalling the first time she had to face Chichiri one on one.
He had been so reluctant at first and though he hid it, she could tell that he did not wish to fight her. She had not placed any expectations on him, nor did she now with Hotohori, but she almost wished to see her dear Chichiri once more. A year in his company had given her a refreshing realization that not all men were created to believe women weak, and Hotohori was in agreement with this as well. Although Chichiri had accepted her and Ren to be one a great deal quicker than Hotohori.
Hotohori took the distraction to his advantage, switching the sides to put Usagi on the defensive and she was brought crashing back to reality. Usagi's eyes narrowed and she focused on her task.
"This shall last at least a month and a half, I am prepared to fight till the very end though." Hotohori thought.
*&*&*&*&*&*&*&*Almost two months later
Time for the two warriors had no meaning. They had fought for the past two months without distraction and it was a stunning battle to say the least. The fighters had obtained bruises and minor injuries throughout the battle but Usagi was by far better off than the exhausted Hotohori. Usagi calmly stepped to avoid his final lunge, a sad attempt to end the fight. She smiled at his collapsed figure and sadly knelt beside him.
"Hoto-chan," she spoke for the first time since they had begun the fight and Hotohori barely smiled at the sweet sound of silver chimes.
"I'm afraid that I've kept something from you." She said softly, taking his hand in her tiny one.
His eyes asked the question.
"You are weaker now than anyone should be under the circumstances. It is due to a cursed illness that you acquired as a child." She spoke gently and with precision.
Hotohori looked thoroughly confused. "Nani?"
Usagi sighed. "You have a disorder that causes you to tire faster than a normal person should. But because of your being a seishi you were granted the tolerance of a normal person."
Hotohori looked almost frightened at this revelation, for he knew Usagi spoke no lies.
"What does this mean?" he asked after a moment.
Usagi smiled. "It is simply time that you understand why you tired so quickly in the fight. Now Suzako will purge your body and mind of any faults. Your illness will be taken care of, as well as any scars and such."
Usagi stood up and began to glow a soft silver-blue hue. She helped him to his feet and wound her arms around his neck. Vaguely Hotohori wondered how even after the strenuous battle she somehow managed to attain the scent of roses and rain. He did not understand what was happening, nor did he attempt to, but the next thing he knew Usagi had pulled him to her in the gentlest kiss he had ever tasted. She tasted like strawberries.
Hotohori felt his body growing stronger. He felt his weakness fading and he opened his eyes to find himself surrounded in white. Ren hovered beside him and crossed his arms over his chest.
"Hotohori-san," Ren began, grinning. "It is time to return to your fellow seishi."
Hotohori looked down to realize that he wore brand new clothing, fine silk garments with patterns of Suzako sewn into the fabric. A silver sash around his waste went nicely with the white material and silver designs and brand new black calf boots covered his feet. His gold hued eyes gazed at Ren in odd fascination.
Ren smiled again. "The gods have granted you peace." He announced. "Let's go."
A portal appeared to their right and together the men walked through. Silent companions until they reached their waiting friends.