Where do I belong?
Disclaimer:
Me: What exactly does a disclaimer do anyways? I mean I know that I don't own FY! You know I don't own FY right? You mean Watase Yuu would think that I owned FY? NO SHE WOULDN'T would she! So I don't get what the big deal is? I mean EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW THAT we the common people DO NOT own them as much as we want to.
Tasuki: Relax WOMAN! * shakes Fiery-chan aggressively *
Me: * snaps out of rant mode * Wai Tasuki! * wink * but I'm sure Watase Yuu wouldn't mind if we borrow her characters for * ahem * stuff! * smiles innocently *
Tasuki: Uh oh…
Me: Oh yea before I forget just to satisfy people. I do not own FY but Hirashi Kimiko is from me and only me! So she's mine!
WARNINGS: OOC characters cos I want it that way. NO FLAMES are welcomed. Don't like my fic DON'T REVIEW!! I am only doing this for my fun and the readers who actually want to read it. One more thing MAJOR SPOILERS!
Notes:
Wow…. All I can say that this is a very looooooong chapter. And please readers don't kill me after reading this chapter * cowers * I think this is one of the worst chapters I have ever written… but a lot of stuff happens so what the heck!
Lol! Sorry again for loooooong delays. School has started up and I have A LOT OF activities and posts. I think my readers are all straying away from me. Although it discourages me, I have to say I love all you guys for helping me to where I am. Also thank you to all you loyal readers! I can't believe you have stuck around for so long! I mean I have 100 reviews! When I started this fic I thought I wouldn't even get more than 5 reviews. Thank you all for being there for me. I am grateful and you all are much appreciated. And no I am not ungrateful! I am just a bit stressed =D Lol peace!
Hope ya all enjoy this chapter!
~ Fiery-Ice ~
P.S: I would like to recommend a few really good fics. For one
A) "The American Miko" by my good friend Celesta Hellewise Harman.
B) "Amethyst and Amber: I will always be with you" by Shadow Hawk.
C) "Reborn" by Kiriko seikun now known as Meta Lise.
D) "Damsels in Distress" by uots.
Readers delight:
KittyLynne: Ya know what? I love your review. It picks out the points, which you liked and tells me what you liked. Ya get what I mean? Aww Nuriko die? Er maybe…maybe not… we'll see * looks mysterious then bursts out laughing * hahaha man I am weird. I kept Tasuki in character? COOL! I sorta was trying to imagine how Tasuki would respond ya know? Sorta like just closing your eyes and seeing the picture. Glad my imagination fits! ^_^
Zerianyu: Lol Thanks for telling me in the email that that is you! You like it? Really? Radical! And you got a part in the play? Is that over already or is that like not yet happened? Anyways Congrats! I am sure you will do well! And goodie you have no sorries here! ^_^
Meta Lise: Why the change of name? Megan-chan? The flame you got was soooo lame! Hey that rhymes hehehe! Nuriko? Chiriko? We'll see I have no idea yet ^_^ * grins secretively *
Shadow Hawk: My god Rosie! I may have gotten them to confess faster than you but you have nearly finished yours! I can't believe it! @_@ But its cool! I can't wait for the epilogue… awwww I wanna see them together again! ^_^ yea yea you have to inform me when your next chap is out! ^_^
Halee: WELCOME TO WDIB! Nahh its allright better late then never right? Anyways enjoy the show! ^_^
uots: Martha-chaaaaan! I dunno about the dying part…. But lets see… I think someone does have to die… but only time will tell what my insane mind will cook up. Yes my sanity is to be questioned! LOL
Tara_Potter_Malfoy: Wow! Okay okay I get the picture already! Ahhaha here is the next chapter! And Congrats on being my 100th reviewer! WOO HOO! Er sorry no presents just a hug! Hahah * hug *
Chapter 11
Things happen. Fate wins.
@ Early morning @
So comes the day when the Suzaku group would set for Hokkan. Two people a.k.a Tasuki and Kimiko felt like the previous night was just a dream but they knew it was not.
Happy but a little afraid that all that happened was just a joke or her mind playing tricks on her, Kimiko opened her eyes to the rising sun with a smile. On the other hand, Tasuki was just musing over his boldness at finally saying what he felt to his now koi.
~Kimiko~
Wow… it really happened. I flopped back in bed just relishing the previous night's events. Tasuki… do I trust him? I trust him with my life now but not with my heart completely…yet.
Today is the day we go to Hokkan. Cringing, I can feel Nuriko's death flashing in my mind every 10 minutes. Nuriko…I will change your fate no matter what it takes! I will! Please Suzaku…grant me this.
I jumped out of bed wincing at the cold that hit me as a shock as I stepped onto the floor. I saw my belongings, which were packed the night before beside the door. Sighing, I did the morning rituals of brushing my teeth and blah blah. The toothbrushes here are really old, big and you can get splinters from it.
I dressed myself in a pale green and blue travelling pants and blouse. The thing that I felt different was that bras weren't invented yet but the women here make do with a long piece of cloth to bind our chests firmly.
Coming back to my room, not encountering anyone except Chichiri who was meditating so I didn't want to interrupt him since it was pretty early, I picked up I bag then set it at Nuriko's room with a note.
Nuri-chan,
I'll be back later but I have something important to do first. Please make sure you bring my belongings to the ship. Arigatou!
Kimi-chan.
P.S. Don't do anything funny with my bag!
I don't want to alert Tamahome and make him think his family was in danger. I'm not sure about them being in danger but I want to make sure.
Luckily, Nuriko had taken me to Tamahome's house on the day we were out shopping because I wanted to meet his family since they were so sweet in the show. Yuiren is so cute when she asked me whether I was going to be Tamahome's wife. I wonder whether she thinks Tamahome will marry every girl Tamahome knows. Obviously, I told her no but I could just be her nee-chan.
I walked through the market place watching stalls open up. Some were selling food for breakfast. Delicious smells wafted through the air. I needed a reason to be at Tamahome's house, so I bought some food. The others are probably putting all their stuff on the ship by now. Tamahome would probably be coming in an hour or two.
I saw Tamahome's house or at least I think it is. Hoping it was the right house I knocked on the door poking my head in. I smiled as I can hear the kids laughing and shouting.
"Ohayo minna-san!"
All chatter stopped and 5 heads turned towards me. The silence erupted into happy laughter as the 4 kids barrelled towards me.
"KIMIKO NEE-SAN!"
"Ohayo! I brought breakfast!"
"Arigatou Kimiko nee-san!" The kids gleefully took the bags of warm food I brought for them.
"Arigatou Kimiko-san." I turned my head towards the smiling fatherly man sitting at the table. His expression was one of a father happily watching his children grow up. I wished I had the pleasure of that expression when I was young. Biting back that past pain I smiled brightly.
"Doitashimashite Sou-san and please call me Kimiko."
He nodded.
"Ne ne Kimiko nee-san, is nii-chan and Miaka nee-chan coming today?"
Nodding an affirmative Yuiren squealed gleefully, glomping me around my legs.
"So what brings you here Kimiko-sa...Kimiko?"
I helped Chuei to take the food out of the bags and lay it on the table watching as the children with amazing manners eat it with delight.
"Just felt like eating breakfast with your little ones."
"Ahh…You said Kishuku is coming today?"
"Hai. Please eat Sou-san."
Then we lapsed into a comfortable silence just watching the kids eat. I marvelled at how much Chuei looked like Tamahome and loved his siblings just as much. He was feeding Yuiren and making sure Shunkei and Gyokuran did not choke on their food.
When they finished the food I brought, they played in the little space they had while Sou-san and I chatted a bit. It was quite a while before it seemed like the Sou family was in no danger. I got up getting ready to leave. As I picked up the trash and was bidding the Sou family goodbye, the door slammed open.
I slowly looked up from hugging Gyokuran and saw Suboshi spinning his ryuusei.
"Suboshi." I acknowledged him.
He looked shocked to see me for a moment, "Kimiko. Why are you here?"
"I suppose I should be asking you that."
"There is no need for conversation. Get out of the way!"
"Yada…Chuei…take your siblings and your father into the back room now and stay there."
"H-hai."
Suboshi glared at me as he saw them going away, "Usokushii! You liar! You said my aniki was safe! YOU LIED SO I AM GONNA KILL THOSE KIDS so GET OUT OF THE WAY!" he ended yelling.
"He is Suboshi…what did Nakago say to you now?" I was feeling weary of all the manipulations Nakago was using on the poor boy.
"You LIED! Nakago said that you Suzaku scum kidnapped my aniki and are torturing him to make him write to me saying he is safe!"
"Su-chan…why do you believe Nakago? If you don't believe me that's fine but how do you know Nakago is telling you the truth? And another thing even if we were torturing Ami-chan wouldn't he be able to tell you that when we weren't looking?"
Suboshi is so hotheaded he believes anything.
Before Suboshi could answer, Tamahome suddenly came up from behind and was blazing. Damn…I forgot his power up!
"You were going to hurt my family?" Venom was clear in his voice.
Then he threw Suboshi outside of the house. I felt fear both from Tamahome and for Suboshi. Nuriko and Miaka came running up frozen when they saw Tamahome beating up Suboshi. I hesistated too long!
I ran outside as fast as I could just in time to see Suboshi fly with a powerful punch and slam against a wall.
"YAMETE!"
I ran up to Suboshi and knelt next to him as he winced. I tore a bit of my clothes to tie it around his bleeding arm. I felt scared. I admit. The bloody wound was enough to make me sick. Then I steeled myself and stood up facing the approaching demon-like Tamahome.
"Tamahome. Yamete kudasai! Suboshi is innocent." I shook with fear, I can still see Tamahome but it seems as if he isn't Tamahome.
"He is not innocent if he dares to harm young defenceless kids."
"D-demo!"
"Move."
"Yada!"
Form a shield Kimiko. Form a shield! Quick! Tamahome is going to blast you out of the way.
But hooow? Tasuki help…. I feel like I am going into panic mode. I can't blast Tamahome and I don't really know how to form a shield nor do I know if I do form one whether it can hold up!
My hands were shaking as I lifted them to release my ki.
Concentrate Kimiko. Please don't let Suboshi or Tamahome do anything they would regret. You can do it.
I pressed my lips hard together gathering my ki the moulding it with my mind into a shield. I can see how I want it to look like in my mind. DISPEL IT NOW!
The familiar rush of energy filled me as before my eyes an alternating blue and red shield protected Suboshi and I. Tamahome threw a ki blast, which made me waver. My hands and body felt like it was going to give way any moment. Please somebody tasukete! Suboshi stirred beside me, waking up then standing up. My arms were wobbling and I dropped to my knees. I barely heard someone yell Kimiko when I concentrated the last of my energy to protect us from Tamahome's oncoming blow.
The shield dissipated and arms caught me when I slumped after Tamahome's last blow. I looked tiredly, taking deep breaths as Suboshi helplessly looked as if this was his death.
Lightning crashed, making everyone jump then suddenly I was plopped onto the ground, Suboshi was gone. It was a blur of colour until I could focus again on the roof where a hooded person was holding Suboshi.
"Soi…"
"Watashi wa Seiryuu Sichiseishi, Soi!" A low feminine voice revealed. Soi made her appearance by throwing off her hood as she spoke.
I couldn't make out what she said after that because I tried concentrating to stand. She left with a confused injured Suboshi with Tamahome yelling, "Yurusanai!" trying to get out of Nuriko's grip.
"Tamahome you're family is fine. I made sure of it." I walked slowly towards him.
"You! Why didn't you tell me this would happen?"
"I didn't because I didn't think Suboshi would still listen to Nakago's lies after what I told him. Nakago told him that the Suzaku seishi kidnapped his aniki, Amiboshi, and were torturing him. Wouldn't you feel extreme anger if you were told that your family is being tortured? You would get revenge."
His symbol died down and he went back to normal. He took Nuriko's arms off him and walked towards his house. Miaka stood not saying anything but there was fear in her eyes. She's stronger than I thought.
I felt my legs becoming wobbly and grabbed onto Nuriko as I stumbled.
"Nuriko onegai bring Miaka into the house and can I lean on you for a bit?"
He nodded, staying strong and complied.
We went into Tamahome's house and I was set on the bed to rest for a while. The kids crowded around Tamahome hugging him and crying. Miaka and Nuriko tried to calm them down. Sou-san came over to me and brushed my hair away from my forehead smiling a little shakily but grateful all the same.
"Kimik.."
"Daijoubu Sou-san, I love those kids and I don't want anything to happen to them."
"Tou-san, heika-sama has asked all of you to stay in the palace." Tamahome told his father.
"Ah? Ah…Hai!"
*********************************
Kimiko lay watching to the exchange between father and son. Once again longing to have the same. She shook her head trying to clear her thoughts of impossible things like that.
Then Tamahome took his father's place at the chair.
"Gomen ne Kimiko."
"Daijoubu Tamahome. I know how you felt and I am sure Suboshi does too. Don't blame him so much. He's confused. He felt the same way you did."
"Ahh that is something I want to ask you Kimiko. Why do you keep defending the Seiryuu seishi when they are obviously trying to attack us?"
"Wakerenai…" Kimiko trailed off thoughtfully. " I just feel a connection to them and I know that there is a reason to why they are how they are. Please don't think I am a spy or anything because I tell you I am not." She ended sincerely and slightly pleading.
"Ah…Sou ka…"
"Tamahome! Yuiren asks whether you brought anything for her!"
Tamahome left Kimiko lying on the bed alone with her thoughts.
Meanwhile, Tasuki was wondering where Kimiko was.
~Tasuki~
Where is that girl? Is she avoiding me? Che! Women! Who can figure them out.
I glanced around. Nuriko had followed Miaka and Tamahome to basically annoy them. I didn't want to leave the ship cos I don't think I would dare get back on it.
Shivering, So much water…I am gonna die… Tasukete!
I just huddled in the corner of the ship making sure I was near something still to grab on to. I still don't see why we have to go to Hokkan by water! Can't these people keep their feet on firm ground?
I had to change my train of thoughts. I turned to a more pleasant thought. Who would have thought I could actually like a woman. I am so not gonna bring 'er home to meet the family. My sisters are devils that would corrupt her into coming one of them! She-devils I tell ya!
WHERE IS THAT WOMAN by the way?!
***********************
The Sou family were all packed and ready to leave for the palace. Excited of course they were while Tamahome was relieved that his family would be safe.
Kimiko was feeling normal by the time they reached the ship where the Sou family would see all of them off then go to their new home. When she reached the ship to check whether all her stuff was on board Tasuki immediately seized her.
~Kimiko~
The moment I got on the ship, a blur of red and purple rushed at me then seized my arm. Itee…my arm was scraped a little when I slumped to the ground. It was just Tasuki but his eyes were blazing.
"Itai yo gen-chan! Hanasei onegai shimasu!"
"Why are ya hurt? And why is your shirt torn?"
"No big deal gen-chan I fell when I was playing with Tamahome's siblings."
"Then why is yer shirt torn?"
"Uuh it tore when I fell…" Then he relaxed his grip and his eyes softened.
"Where were ya anyway?"
"Ba-ka. I just told you. With Tamahome's family!" I hope Nuriko won't tell him what happened. Tasuki has enough people to hate. I know he hates the Seiryuu seishi. He expressed that very clearly with Amiboshi.
"Ah…" Then he grinned with a small fang poking out from the side of his mouth. So kawaii.
The ship started the move and Tasuki started to look pale then green. I ran to the side of the ship to wave good bye to the Sou family and Hotohori before dragging Tasuki to the other side to let him throw up.
The others went down to a meeting room. While I had to drag Tasuki to his room to let him get used to the ship. I guess it was my job to do it since…. Waaaiiit…I shouldn't be the one to do this if the others didn't know that Tasuki and I were kinda together. Nurikooooooooooo! Agh…
First things first, with Tasuki leaning a little on me we went to his room. When we reached the room he plopped on the bed, spread eagle style with one arm thrown over his face. I looked around his room then spotted a familiar bag.
ITS MY BAG! What's it doing here?
Tasuki was out cold. So I stomped over to the meeting room then dragged Nuriko out who was wearing a very mischievous smirk.
"All right Nuriko, spit it out why is my stuff in Tasuki's room? Just point me in the direction of my room and I'll grab my stuff and put it in that room."
Nuriko still smiling widely led me to a room. I opened the door and saw Tasuki sleeping on the bed then I closed to door, facing Nuriko.
"Nuriko…this is Tasuki's room. Where is my room?"
"This is your room!"
"DEMO!"
"Tasuki had to share with someone anyway! I thought you would be the perfect choice since you guys are * ahem * . Ne ne don't you think so?"
"But but…isn't Miaka sharing with Tamahome then?"
"Nope! She's the miko! She has to be pure!"
"And I don't? I am still a girl from the other world ya know!"
"Oh well too bad! This is your room!"
"But it only has one bed! Where am I going to sleep? On the floor?"
"I'm sure you know!" He gave a huge smile then walked off smiling knowingly and leaving me with my jaw hanging outside Tasuki's room.
I ran to Miaka's room and opened the door forgetting to knock.
"Eh Miaka did you bring any aspir…"I trailed off because my mouth wouldn't work when I saw Miaka and Tamahome kissing passionately. "Ack! Uhh Uhh Gomen! Just wanted some aspirins Miaka uhh ehehe…"
My face got hot but I managed a dry remark, " I would say get a room but I just remembered you've got a room so can I have the aspirins?"
Miaka handed me the aspirins blushing heavily.
Rushing out of the room I slammed the door then laughed hysterically doubling over in laughter as I ran down the corridor to Tasuki's…um I mean Tasuki's and my room.
My hand on the knob, I hesitated at opening the door to the room. Then I took a deep breath and basically plunged into the room. Tasuki still spread-eagled and tangled up in the sheets with his expression a little uncomfortable.
I shook him awake and he got up half asleep.
"Gen-chan…swallow these with water and go back to sleep. I promise it will make you feel better."
Practically zombie-like, he swallowed them then wearily dropped back onto the bed. He'll feel better later. Ahh the wonders of modern medicine.
I brushed away his hair from his brow then blushed again as my fingertips brushed his forehead. I still feel as if I am dreaming. Who would imagine that Tasuki is actually in front of their eyes and is reciprocating their feelings? I would have never thought it would actually happen. I want this to last at least for some time.
Please Suzaku…let me enjoy this for as long as I can. I know that since Miaka, the miko definitely can't stay in this world I certainly can't. But still…I want to treasure this moment even if it is a dream. I do hope Soi's had enough just now. I really don't want to see her now.
I wanna sleep, woke up too early. * yawn * my eyelids are getting heavier. I better just sleep on the floor. So I pulled my bag over making it into a pillow and pulled out a robe to act as a blanket. The floor is pretty clean. Its still like early afternoon but the chilly sea breeze swept through the window. Curling up under my blanket I squirmed a bit to find a comfortable spot where my bones wouldn't be rubbing against the hard floor, then fell asleep.
*********************
All was quiet except with a little buzz of activity going on the top deck. Tasuki awoke hearing a murmuring of the word 'no' coming from somewhere.
He sat up, not remembering how he got into his assigned room and scanned the room quickly still not finding the source of the low, desperate lost sound of the murmuring 'no'.
~Tasuki~
"no…no…no…no…"
This was what I awoke to. The calling seemed desperate, lost and almost in denial. I looked around the room to find nothing.
"don't die don't die….onegai…no…" tears clearly heard in the voice.
It seemed to be louder by the side of the bed. I poked my head over the edge of the bed only to see Kimiko covered by a thin robe for a blanket and her bag as a pillow and her head twisting from side to side. She kept repeating 'don't die' and 'no'
I wondered what she was doing in my room then tried to wake her. It had no effect. I was contemplating whether I should get some cold water to dump it over her but decided against it when suddenly she gripped my wrist with a death grip. I tried prying her fingers off but she gripped it tighter.
I gave up and picked her up laying her on the bed next to me because she still wouldn't let go. I held her close till she trailed off whispering 'no'. She stopped twisting and settled closer to me, her back to my chest and her head just below my chin with my arms around her. She calmed down finally breathing steadily and sleeping soundly.
I breathed in her light scent. It was enticing. Feeling comfortable, I fell asleep soon after that. She fit very well against my body. I wonder what she dreamt about that had her so upset. I didn't even notice that I didn't feel like throwing up anymore.
****************************
Tasuki and Kimiko slept peacefully for a few hours getting the well needed rest for the terrifying journey ahead.
~Kimiko~
Nuriko…doko da? NURIKO!
Then there was a flash. Nuriko stood before me in a background of white. It was so cold so cold. He smiled serenely before dropping to the ground. Only then did I see crimson red blood soak into the pristine whiteness.
Another flash, Nuriko being impaled on 4 blood streaked claws of a human wolfman…Ashitare. Then Nuriko hurt and bloodied cracked and broke the neck of Ashitare. Nooo! It's happening again…
He lifted the huge boulder threw it and fell…smiling serenely. 'Gomen' he mouthed. "No…no…no…NURIKOOOOO!" I screamed
"I told you not to die! No…no…onegai no…Nuriko you can't leave me!" I yelled at the felled figure. I tried running towards it but I was being held back.
Despair had me twisting in denial, repeating, "no…no…no…no…" I screamed in anguish. I felt like throwing up as the scene of Nuriko dying kept flashing like a video kept on hold.
I am useless, I couldn't stop fate…I couldn't save someone who mattered. I am useless and weak. I groped around in the now darkness looking for help…please someone help me…I felt a warm hand and held it like it was my lifeline. I was lifted into warm arms but Nuriko's death kept flashing around me, "no…stop…no…I'm sorry…no…no…"
Then I felt tired. I want to give up. I felt warmth envelope me.
"no…."
The warmth comforted me…I forgot about Nuriko's death curling up in the darkness to sleep wanting to forget. Then all was warm darkness.
***********************
Kimiko woke up a few hours after falling asleep to find herself lying comfortably in a bed. Arms encircled her waist making her go still.
~Kimiko~
Where am I?
I rubbed sleep out of my eyes. Then saw arms around my waist. I lifted one off me following with my gaze to see whom the arm belonged to. Tasuki… I couldn't help it when a small contented smile spread on my face.
I rolled out of his arms, smoothing down my clothes and re-tying my hair. I heard movement and shouting above us. Then the figure on the bed opened his eyes then yawned widely before giving me a lopsided grin.
For a moment it seemed as if the world had melted away and left us just contentedly gazing at each other. A yell of urgency on the top deck jolted me out of my daze. Both of us snapped into action, I ran out of the door towards the yell first.
On the top deck, I saw lightning everywhere.
"All of you protect Miaka! Soi is around here somewhere!"
All the seishi tried to surround Miaka but she would not have any of it. She jumped out in front of her seishi, the crazy baka. Tasuki came up on deck and caught my eye.
All was quiet and all of us were wary to see where Soi would attack first. Shit…this is different from the show. What is going to happen? Tension filled the air.
A crack like the sound of the whip was heard. A flash of lightning barely missed Miaka. She ended up next to me. Another crack and all the seishi weren't so lucky they were pinned to the ground writhing. Miaka and I were left. Oh damn…she knows we might not be strong enough to fend her off. God I hope Miaka has the hold sword with her.
A black hooded figure stood at the stern of our deck. With flair, Soi threw her cloak off.
"Seiryuu Shichiseishi, SOI!" she announced. Not giving us a chance she called on her lightning, "HAKU JINRAI OH!"
We both screamed and jumped out of the way.
Oh my god. I've never seen lightning so close before. I watched as she targeted Miaka, waiting for a chance. All right Kimiko gather your ki now!
Ki blasting is becoming easier for me. Chichiri was right practice makes it easier. The familiar surge of energy rose. Ki formed in my palm as I sought a clear shot. I saw one! Guide it guide it!
I released the ki ball but Soi managed to meet it with a lightning bolt. Chikuso! The force of the blast pushed her back a little.
"Soi there is no need to fight stop this!" I yelled knowing it will still be of no use. She loves Nakago so much she would do anything he says.
"B***H! SO you are the little witch that Nakago wants? I wonder why? Omae o Korosu!"
I knew what she was planning. While she was yelling at me I was going to shout instructions to Miaka. But Miaka already had the holy sword out without my saying.
Miaka jumped in front of me as the lightning bolt came so fast towards me I didn't have enough time to concentrate. My face blank, I saw Miaka hold on to the sword tightly, her hands shaking as the energy absorbed by the sword was strong. Another bolt got absorbed as it was thrown.
With a cry, Miaka swung the sword towards Soi throwing the energy back towards her. Soi yelled in agony as the blast went through her and Miaka and I covered our eyes.
We uncovered our eyes and saw Soi clutching her wound.
"Soi!"
"I will kill you!" She looked at me with such hatred and venom that I stubborn and defiant met her stare evenly. With that she disappeared.
As expected Miaka was hugged by a nearly frantic Tamahome. While I stood there trying to understand what Soi had said. Nakago wants me for? Even if he wanted to use me as an advantage why would Soi hate me so much? In the show she didn't really hate Miaka!
An arm around my waist alerted me of Tasuki. I spun and saw emotions in those eyes. There was relief, passion and a hint of fear. His lips were in tensed in a straight line. Tasuki…What am I going to do? You're one of my problems but you're a comfort to my other problems. I laid my head wordlessly on his chest.
He wrapped his arms around me. My breathing slowed, I didn't even know I was breathing heavily and I calmed down. I am now very sure the rest of the seishi knows about Tasuki and I because I can see Chichiri and Nuriko giving me knowing smiles but not saying anything and walking away.
"Aww you guys are such a cute couple!" I heard Miaka squeal. "Mmmph!" Tamahome must have covered Miaka's mouth. Perhaps Tasuki glared at them deadly…
"Look! There's Hokkan!" Chiriko exclaimed.
So it begins.
"Dear Suzaku its cold!"
I refused to wear the pinkish cloak like Miaka's I was supposed to wear and managed to get a deep violet-blue one like Nuriko's.
**************************
The group got off the ship to start their journey. Walking towards the tents they saw from the ship they encountered a young boy riding on a horse that he couldn't control.
Tamahome saved him and they talked to the elders of the tents. Only Tamahome and Miaka were in the tent talking to the elders.
~Kimiko~
This is the country where Nuriko might die. Shivers went up my spine just thinking of it. It felt so weird to be here. Knowing that a friend may die if I made the wrong decisions or didn't help him, felt like crap.
I just wandered around the vast area of tents, exploring. Tasuki tried playing with the kid.
Soon it was night, it wind became even colder. I saw Tasuki sitting under a tree with Chichiri sulking.
"Is he sulking because the kid said he had a scary-face?"
Tasuki turned even redder as Chichiri answered, "Hai na no daaa! How did you know?"
"I'm an oracle!" I laughed.
"Okay I'm going to turn in na no da!"
I took Chichiri's place next to Tasuki.
"Aw…poor gen-chan! The kid's wrong ya know… you've got a sexy face with cute fangs!" I boldly said. I think the cold is affecting my brain.
He turned slightly red but smirked revealing a small sharp fang at the corner of his mouth.
"Its is freezing! I think my fingers have gone numb. Gen-chaaaan can you use your tessen, so I can warm up?" I pleaded. I don't care I am really cold. As much as I love snow this is still cold!
"I got a better idea!"
He gathered a bit of wood and rekka shinen'd it building a warm fire. Then he pulled me close, me in between his legs, with my back to his chest and his warm hands clasping my hands holding the blanket around us.
At first, I thought my face was hot due to the sudden heat but I realised it was because of the close proximity. I really need to get used to this. I can't keep blushing every time he holds me or kisses me. I leaned back relaxing and feeling cosy.
Miaka came bouncing up asking where Tamahome was. I was about to answer when Nuriko came up telling her he was in the woods and tossing a blanket at her telling her to bring it to him. She smiled widely saying 'Arigatou'.
No harm can come to them right? It will happen as in the show. So I didn't warn or tell them anything. Mmm…I wanna enjoy this for as long as I can. Although I know that this thing between Tasuki and I might not last as much as I want it to, I want to try at least even if it means setting myself up to be weak or hurt terribly.
I know he said he loved me but does he really? No matter I'll try to trust him and hope he won't destroy me that way at least I have no regrets.
I looked up into the clear night sky again. Stars twinkled brightly.
"Ne ne gen-chan can you teach me whose stars are whose?"
"Eh? Hai…" He pointed to a very bright clump of stars, "That is the all of the Suzaku seishi's stars.
He proceeded to point all the seishi's stars out. When he showed me his, I made sure to remember it.
**************************
The night wore on, so to say they were tired and went to bed soon after for the next day to the city of Hokkan. Waking up early, they bade the kind Hokkan folk good-bye. The Hokkan folk gave them some supplies and four horses to ride on.
The pairings on the horses are as follows, Tamahome and Miaka (A/N: DUH!), Tasuki and Kimiko, Nuriko and Chichiri, Mitsukake and Chiriko. The chill in the morning air gave all of them rosy cheeks and gave Kimiko a feeling of dread as they entered the city.
~Tasuki~
What's with Kimiko? I can actually feel her tense up ever since we came into the city. I observed as she watched everywhere with alert eyes as if she was watching for something to spring out from somewhere.
Something bad is going to happen isn't it, Kimiko? I can tell.
I can actually read Kimiko's expressions. Her face was expressionless except for her eyes but I can tell. You'd better tell me even if I have to torture you for it! Woah, I am talking crazy now. Talking to myself. Okay shutting up now.
Da hahaha you will but I won't!
Shut up!
No.
LALALAA I CAN'T HEAR YOU.
….
~Kimiko~
Somebody is going to die today. I shuddered. And that person is my friend Nuriko. What will I do?! Maybe if I make sure that everyone sticks together until we get to the top no one will die! But then how will Miaka get through the test for the shinzaho?
Suzaku and even Seiryuu help me make the right decision. I don't want anyone to die. Ashitare's been abused. I think he may be crazed from the abuse. He is going to live I know but then once he gets back to his camp with or without the shinzaho he will die at Nakago's hand. Doesn't Nakago have a shred of compassion in him?
I KNOW HE DOES! He has to…
Not only Ashitare will die but Nuriko will die too. Why all the war! Chikuso! Why am I here anyway?
Frustration kept building up as I questioned myself and fought to keep an expressionless face so as to not alarm the others. I felt a light brush of lips on my cheek and looked behind. Questioning, curious, determined eyes stared down at me. The frustration that was building up deflated like a balloon burst. I knew why I was here and why I am still going on.
I shook my head trying to convince him nothing was wrong. He didn't look too satisfied but I turned my head so that I didn't have to confront him and so that he couldn't read my expression. Damn I thought my years at keeping my face straight was successful! How could he even read me?
We stopped at the tomb shrine thing. I couldn't remember what it said but I did remember that the shinzaho was at the Mt. Koku.
"Minna-san…ano…can we just stick together? No splitting up whatsoever?"
They gave me strange suspicious looks but nodded. It was already late afternoon. Won't have time to get up the mountain. But will Ashitare be here?
"Minna! I know where the shinzaho is. It's on Mt. Koku but it's too late now to go up there. We'll go first thing in the morning okay?"
"Ah hai!" They all chorused.
I could still feel Tasuki staring a hole in the back of my head. Don't squirm! He'll know that you are hiding something.
We went to the local inn. Ashitare still nowhere in sight maybe he saw too many of us together and thought it would be stupid to attack. I jumped off the saddle, and the moment my soft shoed clad feet touched the ground I jumped. Cold cold cold! Argh… I want my sneakers!
"Heh too cold for ya?" Tasuki mocked me teasingly.
I growled. Tasuki simply smirked mockingly. Annoying bandit.
Relief flooded me when we got into the warm inn without any bad occurrences. Tamahome, Miaka and Nuriko had gone ahead to the inn to get us rooms while the rest of us unloaded our stuff.
"Eto…minna we've got 4 rooms so 2 people to a room. Wakatta?"
"Hai!"
The pairings were same as in the ship that is Miaka and Tamahome of course Miaka wanted to spend as much time as she could with Tamahome, Nuriko and Chichiri, Mitsukake and Chiriko and Tasuki and I. Two of the rooms had double beds while the other two had twin beds. Naturally Nuriko made sure that Tasuki and I, Miaka and Tamahome got the double-bedded rooms. He seems to like match making.
****************************
Everyone did their own thing before dinner glad to have sometime to himself or herself. During dinner they discussed the plan of action for the next day.
"I think we should split up tomorrow then we can protect Miaka properly like so if there is an attack and one gets injured the rest can fight back."
"No, no splitting up. Ever heard of 'united we stand, divided we fall'?"Kimiko argued.
"Nope, never heard of it! Is that something from your world Kimi-chan?" Nuriko laughed gleefully.
"Maybe it is." She retorted. Kimiko felt at loss. She was trying to subtly keep Nuriko from certain tragedy if they spilt up and Nuriko was making it very hard for her.
The night wore on as the two protested and opposed each other whether to split up. Nuriko half to annoy Kimiko and half serious on the other hand Kimiko was for a reason.
As they went to their respective rooms, Tasuki noticed Kimiko seemed more agitated and uptight than usual.
~Tasuki~
Maybe its time to ask what the hell is going on. What is she HIDING!?
Okay what to do? Coax it out of her? Ask her straightforwardly? Gaah! WOMEN are so frustrating!
She is just looking blankly into space. Maybe I should just ask her.
~Kimiko~
Nuriko is it fate that you have to die? No No no! I will not allow it!
You are nothing. You are worthless. You are a coward.
Shut up! Shut up! Voices of my parents mocked me.
What am I going to do? I wanted to be of some use and yet when it comes down to something as important as this I can't do anything.
I mused with my thoughts when I noticed some movement in front of my eyes. I blinked a few times then saw Tasuki waving his hand in front of my face.
"Eh what's wrong? I can tell something is wrong? Spit it out."
Do I tell him? It could be dangerous to tell him, as he and Nuriko are close also. What would he do? He is very irrational.
"Nan de mo nai yo!"
"Liar…I can tell that you are lying!"
He can? Damn the guy really is starting to scare me. He can actually tell that I am lying? Sheesh its either the people in my world are real idiots or that he is really getting very close to me.
"Gen-chan… something very bad is going to happen. I don't know whether I can actually prevent it from happening."
"Heh you're kidding right?" He laughed nervously maybe its because I said it too seriously but at least I got my point across.
I shook my head slowly. I looked at the shadowy white view of the mountain. I felt as if I could see Nuriko and Ashitare in a haze fighting. I felt drained and sick at the blood flowing so vividly.
Tasuki sat next to me rigid, "Something bad is going to happen…" He repeated.
Then he hugged me. His presence was comforting.
"We will be strong. We can get through it. Whatever that 'it' is." He murmured into my hair.
We lay on the bed trying to get to sleep in each other's arms. Black darkness received me sending me into dreamless sleep. Thank you.
*******************************
The next morning filled Tasuki and Kimiko with anxiety. During breakfast, Nuriko finished his early. Tamahome a little hung over due to Nuriko giving him his Nuriko's Special the night before.
Nuriko was bouncing up and down to leave but the rest of them prolonged the wait especially with Miaka eating everything in sight. She kept wanting for food. Kimiko was something like this. @_@
She never expected watching Miaka eat was so weirdly scary yet fascinating. Where did Miaka put all that food?
They were delayed another 2 hours all just packing their stuff and everything. As they were ready to leave, Chichiri discovered that Nuriko was gone.
"Daaaaaaaaa! Nuriko is gone! Vanished!"
"Nani?" Everyone yelled.
~Kimiko~
Turmoil went through my head.
K'SO! Nuriko no BAKA! Not wasting any time I rushed out of the inn in the midst of the confusion. Nobody noticed me running out of the inn and jumping onto one of the horses.
I rode furiously in the direction of the mountain. Good thing we had found out how to get to the mountain the day before by inquiry.
Nuriko! Hold on!
The cold made me numb. I felt nothing except fear for my friend. My chestnut coloured horse rode halfway up the mountain until the snow became too thick. I hopped off the horse slapping its ass to send it galloping down the mountain.
I trudged through the snow, the ice and snow chilling me to the bone. My legs felt like lead as I pushed through the thick blanket of white. I put one foot in front of the other. I heard yells getting louder a little higher up.
Then I arrived at the scene in time to see Nuriko crack Ashitare's neck and his long jagged deadly claws stab Nuriko as he flew through the air. It was as if it all happened in agonizing slow motion .All was quiet. My heart pounded wildly. No words could express how I felt at that moment.
I heard a tortured scream of anguish, "IIIIIIIEEEEEEEEEEE! NURIKOOOO!" At first I thought someone else had come to the scene but I realised that the sound had burst out of me.
All I could see was Nuriko broken and bruised laying on the pristine pure snow staining it an impure crimson. I took one step in disbelief, trudging ever so slowly, my footprints on the snow trailing towards Nuriko. I reached his side collapsing to my knees.
His body seemed so lifeless. I trembled as I shakily bent towards him, my hands reaching out to hold him. I tore a wide strip of cloth from my clothes trying to get the flow of crimson to cease. My cloak would be enough for me.
I gripped his shoulders. The dam of tears I had been holding back broke through. Tears of grief flooded me as I cried into his chest with silent sobs slowly working towards wails of pain.
I couldn't handle death. Seeing Nuriko made me believe I was a failure but most of all I couldn't handle losing a friend. I can't be strong like this. I don't believe this. Nuriko you baka! I cried howling with anguish.
***********************************
Kimiko's wails of anguish echoed through the mountains. Nuriko…This pain was more than Kimiko could handle. Has she lost her friend? What will the others' reactions be?
************************
Notes: Waaaaaaah 22 pages! I am nuts! But oh well! Also DON'T Kill MEEEEEEEEE!!! *sniff * *sob * Nuriko… waaaaaaaaaaa…Nuriko… * choke *
I can't say it. Hehehe wait for the next chappie! This will take a bit of time since I have barely any time to myself! Oh well! Hope you liked it! ^_^
~Fiery- Ice~
P.S: R/R onegai shimasu! Arigatou!!