Disclaimer: I do not own Love Hina or any of the characters contained in
here. Love Hina is owned by Ken Akamatsu. This FanFic is purely for the
enjoyment of myself and for others to read. So please don't sue
To Help a Friend
"I need your help Su! I need you to send me inside Motoko's mind."
Everyone but Haruka and Hikari gasped at what he asked.
"Ara Kei-Kun. How will you be able to go inside Motoko-chan's mind?"
"Pretty simple really Mutsumi-san. I'm going to have Su recite her incantation while I MERGE my chi with Motoko's. Then I can get rid of what's killing her."
Keitaro holds Motoko's cold hand again and whispered," Don't worry Motoko, I'm coming."
And somewhere inside Motoko's mind something laughed---evilly
( A few minutes later)
"Are you sure this is going to work Keitaro?" asks a skeptical Naru Narusegawa .
It had only been a few minutes since Keitaro explained his intention to enter Motoko's mind with Su's help and already a futon was unrolled next to hers, while Hikari and Su attached various electrodes to both Keitaro's chest and temple region. Keitaro himself had pulled off his torn shirt to allow them access---once again admiring Koalla Su's technical mastery.
'Man, leave it to Su to cobble together working medical equipment on such short notice.' Then a less comfortable thought occurs to him. 'On second thought, I just hope this thing doesn't fry our brains out.'
Kitsune, always looking for a way to tease either Keitaro or her best friend, couldn't pass up this rare opportunity .
"What do you think Naru? Keitaro is looking pretty manly just lying there topless eh?" she couldn't help but chuckle at her remark. The others just rolled their eyes in annoyance while Keitaro just ignored her. Naru, on the hand didn't.
"Knock it off Kitsune!" she yelled turning to her grinning friend. " Now isn't the time for this crap. You know Keitaro and I aren't like that." She froze. Realizing what she just said, she slowly looked around the room, disappointment and annoyance on everyone's faces( especially Haruka's and Mutsumi's)then turned back to face Keitaro .
She wished she could take back what she said.
Keitaro met her gaze with a sad one of his own. She knew how this man felt about her. How many times has he forgiven her every time she misunderstands his clumsiness and sends him to the moon (so to speak). How many times he has sacrificed his time, patience, and perhaps even his sanity whenever ANY of the girls gives him a hard time. Lord, he almost just pounded Motoko within an inch of her life when he thought she had hurt her not more than half hour ago (An action he immediately regretted as he cared very deeply for all of them----even the bratty Sara). Yet once again she lets her "best friend" get under her skin and opens her mouth before she thinks---breaking the heart of the man that she genuinely cares for (even if she is too much of a coward to admit such things to him.)
Naru slowly approaches Keitaro then stops-sensing his disappointment immediately.
"Keitaro, I didn't mean-" she started.
"Your right!" he breaks in, not letting her finish. "Now isn't the time for this CRAP." It didn't escape anyone's notice how he stressed that last word, or the disappointment that permeated the words.
Kitsune, realizing the grave mistake she just made in teasing her two friends, tried to make amends. She very nervously makes a show of scratching her head and says: "Um guys. I didn't mean to give you this hard a time. I know my timing sucked and all. It's just----I'm just so worried about what could happen and I thought maybe I could brighten things up." The faces of the others told her that her timing did INDEED suck and she shyly looked down at the floor in shame. "I-I'm sorry." She almost whispered.
Kitsune felt someone grip her hand in support and looked up at the last person she thought would forgive this latest tease. She saw the smiling face of Keitaro Urashima looking back at her, she didn't realize she had made her way to his beside as she tried to apologize. She barely heard Dr. Hikari tell him to be still as she finished the final adjustments on the medical equipment he was attached to.
"Hey." He started very softly, lifting her chin up to meet him, amused at the confused look she was giving him. "All of us are worried about Motoko-" he heard the murmur of agreement throughout the room. "-I'm not ready to let her go just yet, but you have my word that I will bring her back to us. I suppose a little ribbing doesn't hurt, once in a while, just now wasn't the right time is all."
. All Kitsune could do was just stare at him, amazed that some things still didn't change. Once again he forgave her. Of all the times to say something dumb, and he still forgave her. She rolled her eyes in Naru's direction to see she was still sore about what she did---and what was said because of it. She felt Keitaro whisper in her ear. "Don't worry about Naru. I'm sure she'll come around soon. Just let her be for now." He let go of her chin and lay back down on the futon so Hikari could finish her prep work.
Kitsune smiled inside, feeling A LOT better than she had a right too. 'Damn you Keitaro. Why do you have to be such a great guy. I swear if Naru or Mutsumi don't make there move on you soon---I will.' She starts to turn away, not daring to face Naru just yet as another thought occurs to her. 'Hell, I'd even give up the sake' if it meant I had half a chance. On second thought, maybe I'd just cut back instead.' Kitsune couldn't imagine what it would be like without her favorite pastime.
Hikari decided that it was time to get things going.
"I'm going to need this room cleared out now. I don't know how much time Motoko has left so it's best if we get started right away. If anyone has anything to say to Keitaro - " She turned her head slightly towards a still sad Naru, "-you'd better do it quickly."
Haruka and the girls made their way towards both futons to give their encouragement while Naru stayed conspicuously off to the side.
"Sempai, please be careful." Starts the ever-shy Shinobu . "Please save Motoko-sempai so we can be a family again."
"Yea dork. Kick that demon or whatever-it-is' butt out of kendo girl so I can see you guys go at it again." Added Sara.
"Kei-Kun. Do not forget to come back to us as well after you have saved Motoko. I do not know what I---that is WE would do without you too." Corrected a very worried Mutsumi, who fooled noone with what she REALLY meant." Not caring what anyone thought, she leaned down and kissed him softly on his cheek. Before she pulled away she whispered so that only he could here, "Remember Kei-Kun that you promised that you, Naru-chan and myself were supposed to "have a little chat" after this is all settled. She stood up and began to leave Motoko's room. Shinobu, Sara and Kitsune had followed her out----leaving Naru and Haruka to say their peace.
Surprisingly, it was Naru who started to speak her peace. She turned to Hikari who indicated that she had to make it quick and began to kneel beside Keitaro. Haruka made her way toward her friend and Su to give the two some semblance of privacy. She secretly hoped that Naru would finally say what she felt about her nephew, good or bad.
"H-Hi." She started, not realizing what she wanted to tell him. The look he gave her was one of very calm anticipation. He reached out to take her hand in his and gently squeezed it in support.
'Damnit! I should be the one giving HIM encouragement---not the other way around.' She silently berated herself. 'Oh Keitaro why is this so hard?'
"Maybe its difficult to say what you feel when you care about someone so much it hurts." He answered quietly.
'Oh Crap! He heard me!' she thought frantically. Another squeeze of his hand seemed to calm her as she began to gather her thoughts.
"Keitaro. About what I said after Kitsune decided to be -well Kitsune. I hope you know that I do care about you. More than I have been able to admit, I'm afraid."
Keitaro said nothing, allowing her to continue.
"Mutsumi has always been more open with her feelings towards you. She is a lot braver than I am even if she does act like a complete ditz sometimes." This got a small chuckle from the landlord putting her a little more at ease.
" I'm sorry I said that. I think she is great. Even if it drives me nuts to know that she has fallen for you for awhile now." She looked at him to gauge his response only to see his face turn grim.
'Uh oh! Not a good sign.' She thought. Then decided to take the conversation in a different direction.
"I guess what I am saying is---I'm scared." Keitaro blinked in surprise as she just admitted this latest revelation. " I'm scared of what could happen if I 'Let you in'(No perverted thoughts please). I'm scared how it will change things, not only with you and me, but with everyone else around us. I mean, Shinobu has this big crush on you, Kitsune wants to seduce you, Su loves playing with you all the time, even Sara thinks you remind her of Seta(whether she wants to admit that or not)and its very obvious how Mutsumi feels."
"Ahem." Hikari warned. "Naru, we don't have that much time."
"My apologies Hikari-san. Just a minute more please." She pleaded with the older woman who merely smirked and turned back to Haruka and the ever- bouncing koala Su.
She looked back at Keitaro and was relieved to see that whatever malice he had a few moments ago seemed to disappear completely. So she continued.
"With all the craziness that has been going on today, I'm just realizing how little I really know you." She sees the regret beginning to show on his face.
"Hey. Whatever your reason for keeping it in---it's ok. Knowing you there is a good reason for it. Even if I usually don't give you a chance to explain huh?" Keitaro slowly shook his head in answer.
"You're also about to do something that none of us has ever seen happen, you're going someplace where we can't help you if you get in trouble. I don't know what's waiting for you inside Motoko's mind, whether it's a demon or something far worse. I do know that I agree with Mutsumi---please come back . Promise me that you will bring Motoko back to us---but just remember to come back too. If you promise me, then I know it will be so."
A Keitaro Urashima promise wasn't to be taken lightly-ever. She gently smoothed out a loose strand of his hair back in place as she looked in his eyes to see what he would say.
He squeezed her hand again as he spoke: "Naru. Thank You for what you said. It really means a lot to me. You have my word that I will bring BOTH of us back home. Ok?"
All Naru could do was just smile at him as he reached out and stroked her cheek.
"Don't worry about the others. I'll keep what you said under wraps. Although I did have my suspicions about Shinobu and Sara." He was pleased to see the look of surprise on Naru's face.
"Yes Narusegawa. I can also gauge how someone feels by examining them with my Chi." He stopped her with a look before she could protest. " I can gauge how they feel NOT read their thoughts and even then I consider it an invasion of privacy."
"Even Motoko's?"
"Can't read hers. To do that would have revealed my abilities to her---I didn't want that." He saw her nod in understanding. "Although I'm afraid of what I'll find when I go in."
"You mean how she feels?" Naru never considered that Motoko MIGHT have some romantic feelings toward the landlord and found that she was just as scared at what he'd find as well.
"Yea. I mean, what if I find out that she absolutely hates my guts?"
'Or worse yet Keitaro.' she begins to nervously think. 'What if she doesn't?' Surprised that he hadn't even considered that possibility.
"I don't know how I'd feel about her hating me so much."
Neither said anything else as Keitaro looked up to see Hikari start to get frustrated at the lateness of the day. He kissed Naru's hand and warned:
"We have to get started Naru. I'm sorry."
"That's ok baka." She answered almost playfully not really meaning it at all. " We will be here waiting for you." She kissed his other cheek as she started to stand.
"Remember your promise to me. I am gonna hold you too it."
"Heaven forbid I start breaking them now eh?" he asked equally as playful.
"You better mister!" answered back then looked at Dr. Hikari. "Whatever you do, please help them BOTH come back to us."
"We will do everything we can Naru." She answered the younger girl. "You know that."
Naru bowed to her elders and looked at Su who merely grinned.
"Please don't worry Naruuu. Su will look after big brother Keitaro. Su promises too." Naru simply nodded then realizing she took more time than they had, promptly left the room.
"Are you ready nephew? It's not too late to back out." Asked Haruka already knowing his answer.
"I don't think we have any other choice Aunt Haruka." He was pleased that his Aunt was good as her word about changing her attitude toward him calling her that. "We took up too much time as it is. Motoko needs us now." He took a couple of deep breaths to prepare himself for what was to come. Turning to Hikari and then to Su he announced: "I'm ready."
"One last thing Keitaro. If things don't turn out the way we hope, would you like me to tell Naru EVERYTHING about what happened back then?"
He knew exactly why she asked. Hikari warned him before that there was a chance that He, Motoko, or Both may not survive this encounter if things went south. He had to risk it, for Motoko's sake.
He nodded once in confirmation and added, " I owe her that much."
To which she replied, "You did NOTHING wrong to owe anyone anything. Remember that." He agreed. Haruka turned to Su.
"To make it easy on my nephew, I'll let you know when their Chi's have successfully merged. That way you can begin the incantation when he's ready."
"Okies Haruka-san" agreed Su.
"I'll stand watch on both monitors as per the Toudai research." She says with a little annoyance. Looking at Haruka's confused face she explained. "Apparently, the Medical part of the treatment just requires a damn technician to check vitals---and guess who got elected?"
Both Urashimas and Su chuckled at Hikari's predicament., Su sitting in front of Keitaro's futon while his Aunt kneels next to him.
" Just relax Keitaro and remembers Sensei's training."
Keitaro closed his eyes and remembered how it felt 15 years ago when his sensei suppressed his CHI. (He realized that was what his sensei had done during his fight with Motoko.) He let his Chi slowly release from his body and gather. He then directed it to reach out toward Motoko's body, slowly enveloping it with his own. He could feel how weak her Chi was as his own wrapped around her. Keitaro was relieved to FEEL some of hers attempt to release as well.
'Good!' he thought, 'There is still some fight in her.'
Renewed by her attempt, Keitaro gently pressed on. He could feel a little more of her Chi start to flow around her as he "asked" it to be strengthened by his merging. As if in silent answer, her Chi(weak as it was) began to "blend" with his over her body. After only a few moments, it was as if both bodies shared a single spirit, or soul. To Haruka, it was as if seeing two lovers kiss for the very first time. When she was satisfied that the merging was successful, she turned to her companions:
"It's done. Begin the incantation."
Hikari scrutinized her equipment as Koalla Su began saying the words, in her native tongue, that would send her landlord to her friend's mind.
Not knowing of the danger that awaited him.
******************************************************
The demon licked it lips at it sensed the imminent arrival of his latest 'guest .'
" Soon Urashima. Very soon indeed ,shall you be my latest feast."
The Keitaro-demon looked at Motoko's spirit-form , amused that she continued her attempts to break free of the dark tendrils keeping her at bay. She noticed its examination of her and stopped, glaring at her captor all the while.
"While YOU my dear Aoyama, shall be the one that seals his fate."
The look of mortal fear on Motoko's face started the demons maniacal laughter as it permeated the void in which they reside.
"URASHIMA TURN BACK! YOU ARE IN DANGER! PLEASE TURN BACK!" she screamed, knowing that Keitaro could not have possibly have heard her. She starts to weep as despair set in.
"Please forgive me Keitaro. I did not know. I simply did not know---and we both may pay the price for it. She thought as the laughter continued.
Author Notes: Another chapter down (YAY!!!!) Seeing as the Holidays are finally over (Whew!) I hope to keep up a more regular schedule. I am shooting for releasing at least one chapter a week, hopefully two seeing as I have two active stories (yea I know----I only have 2 Chapters for "Warrior" but "Friend" has me coming back for more---what can I say. With any luck, "Friend" will only need 3-4 more Chapters before I call it DONE. Then I turn my attentions back to "Warrior"( Which is technically my first attempt at fan fic writing). I also have 2 ideas that have been kicking around for a while now.
One involves my version of what happens when Keitaro finally tells the girls off (with some tragic secrets thrown in) and decides NOT to forgive them this time( No pairings to speak of as yet)
The other will take some more time as I have Keitaro suffering the worst heartbreak he could possibly endure and fast forward 7-8 years later as we witness the ramifications of this heartbreak. (possible Kei/Naru/Mut triangle----haven't decided but its more than likely) I don't plan on making this a very happy one.
Lastly, I want to thank everyone who has reviewed my work with a special thanks to the following:
Shadow-Moon2525: "THE ONE I LOVE" is a MUST READ for every Kei/Mot fan out there. Even on its own merits , it's a good start to what I think will be a GREAT romance story.
Vash-The Unholy: I formally bow to you sir. "REFORMATION OF LIFE" is another MUST READ for the same type of fans as Shadow's of which I am glad I am part of. You get to see the progression of Kei/Mot relationship from acquaintances to (hopefully) lovers with some conflict thrown in for good measure.
Bugsy: PLEASE update "DEFEATED" soon. The story itself is great. (One of the few times I get to see Keitaro go off on the "Evil" Motoko and Mutsumi as a candy stripe nurse.YAY!) Did I mention that this is another MUST READ.
And of course there are many others that I have forgotten to name but they know who they are. I may try some different things around the stories to keep a fresh spin on things---
(Taps on shoulder)
Gote: Yes? Oh Hello Motoko-Chan.
Mot: We must speak Gotenks-san.
Gote: (Sweatdrops) Ok then. What can I do for you?
Mot: What is the meaning this? (hands me pages of "To Help a Friend")
Gote: Um.I don't quite follow you Motoko-chan. This is my fanfic which has yourself and Keitaro as the main leads.
Mot: BAKA!( unsheathing her bokken ) I Know what it is. I simply want to know HOW I am supposed to be a main lead WHEN I AM BARELY IN HALF THE STORY?!!
Gote:( Backing slowly away) M-Motoko-chan. You've read the story. Do you disagree on how it is progressing? I couldn't have you in EVERY scene.
Mot: (Calming down a bit) I do not like to be perceived as a weakling like Urashima! He does not possess these skills you imply.
Gote: He does in this fic. Just like Akamatsu-san has written your abilities and personalites in both the manga and anime.
Mot: The manga was better.
Gote: I agree (she lowers her bokken) It expanded more on your growth as a character and portrayed you as more feminine.
Mot: You mean weak!
Gote: Not at all! Both Volumes 9 and 13 were important books for you.
Mot: Ack! Do not speak of those cursed tomes. I -I lost to Tsuruko each time.
Gote: That's funny. The way I saw it, you BEAT her both times while not only gaining her respect , but allowing you to gain strength from a certain former ronin---making you grow closer. Which, by the way, inspired me to write about you guys. And so did some others( pointing upward at Must Reads)
Mot: (Reading the stories in question) Ack! U-Urashima and Myself? Romantically involved? Impossible. He loves Naru-sempai and perhaps fancies Mutsumi-san. B-But..me?
Gote: Noticed you didn't say anything about the third one.
Mot:..
Gote: Bugsy is cool. Knowing him, it'll turn out ok for you.
Mot:..
Gote: Motoko-chan? Hello?(waves hand in front of her face)
Mot: ..I am NOT evil.
Gote: I don't doubt it. But I don't have the kind of time I need to discuss matters of opinion with you---just trust us on this (again pointing upwards) You'd be surprised how many of us LOVE to write about you.
Mot: (Eyes widening as she browses Fanfiction.net) Indeed?
Gote: Yup. And if it makes you feel better (whispers in her ear)
Mot : (Blushes) Surely you jest. I would NEVER consider that with Urashima!! A-And that is within the next TWO chapters?
Gote: Re-Read Manga Volume 13 and then tell me again with a straight face that it didn't cross your mind. Then I MIGHT believe you. By the way, be thankful I kept your hair.
Mot: Ack!(faints)
Gote: Um Motoko-Chan? Hello?( Fans her face) Anyone home? Sigh! Good thing I didn't tell her what I have planned for "Warrior" I'd be sliced and diced.
Mot: (repeats weakly) S-Slice n D-Dice.
Gote: Um.. Someone remind me to have Tama handy next chapter.
Hopefully I didn't offend anyone with that last bit. If so, I apologize profusely, but that's what I'd like to continue for future reference.(damn but if that wasn't fun- I can see why you like writing that Vash :) And as always
(Gotenks & Motoko): Read and Review
Mot: By the way Gotenks-San. I heard what you implied about "Warrior"(unsheathes bokken)
Gote: Um..And?( Thank You lord its just wood.)
Mot: Slice n Dice is too good for you. ( Grins evilly)
Gote: I am SO dead.
.
To Help a Friend
"I need your help Su! I need you to send me inside Motoko's mind."
Everyone but Haruka and Hikari gasped at what he asked.
"Ara Kei-Kun. How will you be able to go inside Motoko-chan's mind?"
"Pretty simple really Mutsumi-san. I'm going to have Su recite her incantation while I MERGE my chi with Motoko's. Then I can get rid of what's killing her."
Keitaro holds Motoko's cold hand again and whispered," Don't worry Motoko, I'm coming."
And somewhere inside Motoko's mind something laughed---evilly
( A few minutes later)
"Are you sure this is going to work Keitaro?" asks a skeptical Naru Narusegawa .
It had only been a few minutes since Keitaro explained his intention to enter Motoko's mind with Su's help and already a futon was unrolled next to hers, while Hikari and Su attached various electrodes to both Keitaro's chest and temple region. Keitaro himself had pulled off his torn shirt to allow them access---once again admiring Koalla Su's technical mastery.
'Man, leave it to Su to cobble together working medical equipment on such short notice.' Then a less comfortable thought occurs to him. 'On second thought, I just hope this thing doesn't fry our brains out.'
Kitsune, always looking for a way to tease either Keitaro or her best friend, couldn't pass up this rare opportunity .
"What do you think Naru? Keitaro is looking pretty manly just lying there topless eh?" she couldn't help but chuckle at her remark. The others just rolled their eyes in annoyance while Keitaro just ignored her. Naru, on the hand didn't.
"Knock it off Kitsune!" she yelled turning to her grinning friend. " Now isn't the time for this crap. You know Keitaro and I aren't like that." She froze. Realizing what she just said, she slowly looked around the room, disappointment and annoyance on everyone's faces( especially Haruka's and Mutsumi's)then turned back to face Keitaro .
She wished she could take back what she said.
Keitaro met her gaze with a sad one of his own. She knew how this man felt about her. How many times has he forgiven her every time she misunderstands his clumsiness and sends him to the moon (so to speak). How many times he has sacrificed his time, patience, and perhaps even his sanity whenever ANY of the girls gives him a hard time. Lord, he almost just pounded Motoko within an inch of her life when he thought she had hurt her not more than half hour ago (An action he immediately regretted as he cared very deeply for all of them----even the bratty Sara). Yet once again she lets her "best friend" get under her skin and opens her mouth before she thinks---breaking the heart of the man that she genuinely cares for (even if she is too much of a coward to admit such things to him.)
Naru slowly approaches Keitaro then stops-sensing his disappointment immediately.
"Keitaro, I didn't mean-" she started.
"Your right!" he breaks in, not letting her finish. "Now isn't the time for this CRAP." It didn't escape anyone's notice how he stressed that last word, or the disappointment that permeated the words.
Kitsune, realizing the grave mistake she just made in teasing her two friends, tried to make amends. She very nervously makes a show of scratching her head and says: "Um guys. I didn't mean to give you this hard a time. I know my timing sucked and all. It's just----I'm just so worried about what could happen and I thought maybe I could brighten things up." The faces of the others told her that her timing did INDEED suck and she shyly looked down at the floor in shame. "I-I'm sorry." She almost whispered.
Kitsune felt someone grip her hand in support and looked up at the last person she thought would forgive this latest tease. She saw the smiling face of Keitaro Urashima looking back at her, she didn't realize she had made her way to his beside as she tried to apologize. She barely heard Dr. Hikari tell him to be still as she finished the final adjustments on the medical equipment he was attached to.
"Hey." He started very softly, lifting her chin up to meet him, amused at the confused look she was giving him. "All of us are worried about Motoko-" he heard the murmur of agreement throughout the room. "-I'm not ready to let her go just yet, but you have my word that I will bring her back to us. I suppose a little ribbing doesn't hurt, once in a while, just now wasn't the right time is all."
. All Kitsune could do was just stare at him, amazed that some things still didn't change. Once again he forgave her. Of all the times to say something dumb, and he still forgave her. She rolled her eyes in Naru's direction to see she was still sore about what she did---and what was said because of it. She felt Keitaro whisper in her ear. "Don't worry about Naru. I'm sure she'll come around soon. Just let her be for now." He let go of her chin and lay back down on the futon so Hikari could finish her prep work.
Kitsune smiled inside, feeling A LOT better than she had a right too. 'Damn you Keitaro. Why do you have to be such a great guy. I swear if Naru or Mutsumi don't make there move on you soon---I will.' She starts to turn away, not daring to face Naru just yet as another thought occurs to her. 'Hell, I'd even give up the sake' if it meant I had half a chance. On second thought, maybe I'd just cut back instead.' Kitsune couldn't imagine what it would be like without her favorite pastime.
Hikari decided that it was time to get things going.
"I'm going to need this room cleared out now. I don't know how much time Motoko has left so it's best if we get started right away. If anyone has anything to say to Keitaro - " She turned her head slightly towards a still sad Naru, "-you'd better do it quickly."
Haruka and the girls made their way towards both futons to give their encouragement while Naru stayed conspicuously off to the side.
"Sempai, please be careful." Starts the ever-shy Shinobu . "Please save Motoko-sempai so we can be a family again."
"Yea dork. Kick that demon or whatever-it-is' butt out of kendo girl so I can see you guys go at it again." Added Sara.
"Kei-Kun. Do not forget to come back to us as well after you have saved Motoko. I do not know what I---that is WE would do without you too." Corrected a very worried Mutsumi, who fooled noone with what she REALLY meant." Not caring what anyone thought, she leaned down and kissed him softly on his cheek. Before she pulled away she whispered so that only he could here, "Remember Kei-Kun that you promised that you, Naru-chan and myself were supposed to "have a little chat" after this is all settled. She stood up and began to leave Motoko's room. Shinobu, Sara and Kitsune had followed her out----leaving Naru and Haruka to say their peace.
Surprisingly, it was Naru who started to speak her peace. She turned to Hikari who indicated that she had to make it quick and began to kneel beside Keitaro. Haruka made her way toward her friend and Su to give the two some semblance of privacy. She secretly hoped that Naru would finally say what she felt about her nephew, good or bad.
"H-Hi." She started, not realizing what she wanted to tell him. The look he gave her was one of very calm anticipation. He reached out to take her hand in his and gently squeezed it in support.
'Damnit! I should be the one giving HIM encouragement---not the other way around.' She silently berated herself. 'Oh Keitaro why is this so hard?'
"Maybe its difficult to say what you feel when you care about someone so much it hurts." He answered quietly.
'Oh Crap! He heard me!' she thought frantically. Another squeeze of his hand seemed to calm her as she began to gather her thoughts.
"Keitaro. About what I said after Kitsune decided to be -well Kitsune. I hope you know that I do care about you. More than I have been able to admit, I'm afraid."
Keitaro said nothing, allowing her to continue.
"Mutsumi has always been more open with her feelings towards you. She is a lot braver than I am even if she does act like a complete ditz sometimes." This got a small chuckle from the landlord putting her a little more at ease.
" I'm sorry I said that. I think she is great. Even if it drives me nuts to know that she has fallen for you for awhile now." She looked at him to gauge his response only to see his face turn grim.
'Uh oh! Not a good sign.' She thought. Then decided to take the conversation in a different direction.
"I guess what I am saying is---I'm scared." Keitaro blinked in surprise as she just admitted this latest revelation. " I'm scared of what could happen if I 'Let you in'(No perverted thoughts please). I'm scared how it will change things, not only with you and me, but with everyone else around us. I mean, Shinobu has this big crush on you, Kitsune wants to seduce you, Su loves playing with you all the time, even Sara thinks you remind her of Seta(whether she wants to admit that or not)and its very obvious how Mutsumi feels."
"Ahem." Hikari warned. "Naru, we don't have that much time."
"My apologies Hikari-san. Just a minute more please." She pleaded with the older woman who merely smirked and turned back to Haruka and the ever- bouncing koala Su.
She looked back at Keitaro and was relieved to see that whatever malice he had a few moments ago seemed to disappear completely. So she continued.
"With all the craziness that has been going on today, I'm just realizing how little I really know you." She sees the regret beginning to show on his face.
"Hey. Whatever your reason for keeping it in---it's ok. Knowing you there is a good reason for it. Even if I usually don't give you a chance to explain huh?" Keitaro slowly shook his head in answer.
"You're also about to do something that none of us has ever seen happen, you're going someplace where we can't help you if you get in trouble. I don't know what's waiting for you inside Motoko's mind, whether it's a demon or something far worse. I do know that I agree with Mutsumi---please come back . Promise me that you will bring Motoko back to us---but just remember to come back too. If you promise me, then I know it will be so."
A Keitaro Urashima promise wasn't to be taken lightly-ever. She gently smoothed out a loose strand of his hair back in place as she looked in his eyes to see what he would say.
He squeezed her hand again as he spoke: "Naru. Thank You for what you said. It really means a lot to me. You have my word that I will bring BOTH of us back home. Ok?"
All Naru could do was just smile at him as he reached out and stroked her cheek.
"Don't worry about the others. I'll keep what you said under wraps. Although I did have my suspicions about Shinobu and Sara." He was pleased to see the look of surprise on Naru's face.
"Yes Narusegawa. I can also gauge how someone feels by examining them with my Chi." He stopped her with a look before she could protest. " I can gauge how they feel NOT read their thoughts and even then I consider it an invasion of privacy."
"Even Motoko's?"
"Can't read hers. To do that would have revealed my abilities to her---I didn't want that." He saw her nod in understanding. "Although I'm afraid of what I'll find when I go in."
"You mean how she feels?" Naru never considered that Motoko MIGHT have some romantic feelings toward the landlord and found that she was just as scared at what he'd find as well.
"Yea. I mean, what if I find out that she absolutely hates my guts?"
'Or worse yet Keitaro.' she begins to nervously think. 'What if she doesn't?' Surprised that he hadn't even considered that possibility.
"I don't know how I'd feel about her hating me so much."
Neither said anything else as Keitaro looked up to see Hikari start to get frustrated at the lateness of the day. He kissed Naru's hand and warned:
"We have to get started Naru. I'm sorry."
"That's ok baka." She answered almost playfully not really meaning it at all. " We will be here waiting for you." She kissed his other cheek as she started to stand.
"Remember your promise to me. I am gonna hold you too it."
"Heaven forbid I start breaking them now eh?" he asked equally as playful.
"You better mister!" answered back then looked at Dr. Hikari. "Whatever you do, please help them BOTH come back to us."
"We will do everything we can Naru." She answered the younger girl. "You know that."
Naru bowed to her elders and looked at Su who merely grinned.
"Please don't worry Naruuu. Su will look after big brother Keitaro. Su promises too." Naru simply nodded then realizing she took more time than they had, promptly left the room.
"Are you ready nephew? It's not too late to back out." Asked Haruka already knowing his answer.
"I don't think we have any other choice Aunt Haruka." He was pleased that his Aunt was good as her word about changing her attitude toward him calling her that. "We took up too much time as it is. Motoko needs us now." He took a couple of deep breaths to prepare himself for what was to come. Turning to Hikari and then to Su he announced: "I'm ready."
"One last thing Keitaro. If things don't turn out the way we hope, would you like me to tell Naru EVERYTHING about what happened back then?"
He knew exactly why she asked. Hikari warned him before that there was a chance that He, Motoko, or Both may not survive this encounter if things went south. He had to risk it, for Motoko's sake.
He nodded once in confirmation and added, " I owe her that much."
To which she replied, "You did NOTHING wrong to owe anyone anything. Remember that." He agreed. Haruka turned to Su.
"To make it easy on my nephew, I'll let you know when their Chi's have successfully merged. That way you can begin the incantation when he's ready."
"Okies Haruka-san" agreed Su.
"I'll stand watch on both monitors as per the Toudai research." She says with a little annoyance. Looking at Haruka's confused face she explained. "Apparently, the Medical part of the treatment just requires a damn technician to check vitals---and guess who got elected?"
Both Urashimas and Su chuckled at Hikari's predicament., Su sitting in front of Keitaro's futon while his Aunt kneels next to him.
" Just relax Keitaro and remembers Sensei's training."
Keitaro closed his eyes and remembered how it felt 15 years ago when his sensei suppressed his CHI. (He realized that was what his sensei had done during his fight with Motoko.) He let his Chi slowly release from his body and gather. He then directed it to reach out toward Motoko's body, slowly enveloping it with his own. He could feel how weak her Chi was as his own wrapped around her. Keitaro was relieved to FEEL some of hers attempt to release as well.
'Good!' he thought, 'There is still some fight in her.'
Renewed by her attempt, Keitaro gently pressed on. He could feel a little more of her Chi start to flow around her as he "asked" it to be strengthened by his merging. As if in silent answer, her Chi(weak as it was) began to "blend" with his over her body. After only a few moments, it was as if both bodies shared a single spirit, or soul. To Haruka, it was as if seeing two lovers kiss for the very first time. When she was satisfied that the merging was successful, she turned to her companions:
"It's done. Begin the incantation."
Hikari scrutinized her equipment as Koalla Su began saying the words, in her native tongue, that would send her landlord to her friend's mind.
Not knowing of the danger that awaited him.
******************************************************
The demon licked it lips at it sensed the imminent arrival of his latest 'guest .'
" Soon Urashima. Very soon indeed ,shall you be my latest feast."
The Keitaro-demon looked at Motoko's spirit-form , amused that she continued her attempts to break free of the dark tendrils keeping her at bay. She noticed its examination of her and stopped, glaring at her captor all the while.
"While YOU my dear Aoyama, shall be the one that seals his fate."
The look of mortal fear on Motoko's face started the demons maniacal laughter as it permeated the void in which they reside.
"URASHIMA TURN BACK! YOU ARE IN DANGER! PLEASE TURN BACK!" she screamed, knowing that Keitaro could not have possibly have heard her. She starts to weep as despair set in.
"Please forgive me Keitaro. I did not know. I simply did not know---and we both may pay the price for it. She thought as the laughter continued.
Author Notes: Another chapter down (YAY!!!!) Seeing as the Holidays are finally over (Whew!) I hope to keep up a more regular schedule. I am shooting for releasing at least one chapter a week, hopefully two seeing as I have two active stories (yea I know----I only have 2 Chapters for "Warrior" but "Friend" has me coming back for more---what can I say. With any luck, "Friend" will only need 3-4 more Chapters before I call it DONE. Then I turn my attentions back to "Warrior"( Which is technically my first attempt at fan fic writing). I also have 2 ideas that have been kicking around for a while now.
One involves my version of what happens when Keitaro finally tells the girls off (with some tragic secrets thrown in) and decides NOT to forgive them this time( No pairings to speak of as yet)
The other will take some more time as I have Keitaro suffering the worst heartbreak he could possibly endure and fast forward 7-8 years later as we witness the ramifications of this heartbreak. (possible Kei/Naru/Mut triangle----haven't decided but its more than likely) I don't plan on making this a very happy one.
Lastly, I want to thank everyone who has reviewed my work with a special thanks to the following:
Shadow-Moon2525: "THE ONE I LOVE" is a MUST READ for every Kei/Mot fan out there. Even on its own merits , it's a good start to what I think will be a GREAT romance story.
Vash-The Unholy: I formally bow to you sir. "REFORMATION OF LIFE" is another MUST READ for the same type of fans as Shadow's of which I am glad I am part of. You get to see the progression of Kei/Mot relationship from acquaintances to (hopefully) lovers with some conflict thrown in for good measure.
Bugsy: PLEASE update "DEFEATED" soon. The story itself is great. (One of the few times I get to see Keitaro go off on the "Evil" Motoko and Mutsumi as a candy stripe nurse.YAY!) Did I mention that this is another MUST READ.
And of course there are many others that I have forgotten to name but they know who they are. I may try some different things around the stories to keep a fresh spin on things---
(Taps on shoulder)
Gote: Yes? Oh Hello Motoko-Chan.
Mot: We must speak Gotenks-san.
Gote: (Sweatdrops) Ok then. What can I do for you?
Mot: What is the meaning this? (hands me pages of "To Help a Friend")
Gote: Um.I don't quite follow you Motoko-chan. This is my fanfic which has yourself and Keitaro as the main leads.
Mot: BAKA!( unsheathing her bokken ) I Know what it is. I simply want to know HOW I am supposed to be a main lead WHEN I AM BARELY IN HALF THE STORY?!!
Gote:( Backing slowly away) M-Motoko-chan. You've read the story. Do you disagree on how it is progressing? I couldn't have you in EVERY scene.
Mot: (Calming down a bit) I do not like to be perceived as a weakling like Urashima! He does not possess these skills you imply.
Gote: He does in this fic. Just like Akamatsu-san has written your abilities and personalites in both the manga and anime.
Mot: The manga was better.
Gote: I agree (she lowers her bokken) It expanded more on your growth as a character and portrayed you as more feminine.
Mot: You mean weak!
Gote: Not at all! Both Volumes 9 and 13 were important books for you.
Mot: Ack! Do not speak of those cursed tomes. I -I lost to Tsuruko each time.
Gote: That's funny. The way I saw it, you BEAT her both times while not only gaining her respect , but allowing you to gain strength from a certain former ronin---making you grow closer. Which, by the way, inspired me to write about you guys. And so did some others( pointing upward at Must Reads)
Mot: (Reading the stories in question) Ack! U-Urashima and Myself? Romantically involved? Impossible. He loves Naru-sempai and perhaps fancies Mutsumi-san. B-But..me?
Gote: Noticed you didn't say anything about the third one.
Mot:..
Gote: Bugsy is cool. Knowing him, it'll turn out ok for you.
Mot:..
Gote: Motoko-chan? Hello?(waves hand in front of her face)
Mot: ..I am NOT evil.
Gote: I don't doubt it. But I don't have the kind of time I need to discuss matters of opinion with you---just trust us on this (again pointing upwards) You'd be surprised how many of us LOVE to write about you.
Mot: (Eyes widening as she browses Fanfiction.net) Indeed?
Gote: Yup. And if it makes you feel better (whispers in her ear)
Mot : (Blushes) Surely you jest. I would NEVER consider that with Urashima!! A-And that is within the next TWO chapters?
Gote: Re-Read Manga Volume 13 and then tell me again with a straight face that it didn't cross your mind. Then I MIGHT believe you. By the way, be thankful I kept your hair.
Mot: Ack!(faints)
Gote: Um Motoko-Chan? Hello?( Fans her face) Anyone home? Sigh! Good thing I didn't tell her what I have planned for "Warrior" I'd be sliced and diced.
Mot: (repeats weakly) S-Slice n D-Dice.
Gote: Um.. Someone remind me to have Tama handy next chapter.
Hopefully I didn't offend anyone with that last bit. If so, I apologize profusely, but that's what I'd like to continue for future reference.(damn but if that wasn't fun- I can see why you like writing that Vash :) And as always
(Gotenks & Motoko): Read and Review
Mot: By the way Gotenks-San. I heard what you implied about "Warrior"(unsheathes bokken)
Gote: Um..And?( Thank You lord its just wood.)
Mot: Slice n Dice is too good for you. ( Grins evilly)
Gote: I am SO dead.
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