Disclaimers- I still don't own Yuyu Hakusho or Weib Kruez but I still wish I do.
Blood
That Saturday morning as Yukiko was having breakfast with the three guys, she was wearing an oversized shirt from Aya's closet. Yoji was still sleeping, Aya had cleared his throat and looked at Yukiko.
"After breakfast get ready, we're going to the mall."
"What's a mall? Why are we going there?"
"A mall's a place where you buy things you need."
"No, you'll be using too much power."
"Oh ok. Would Yoji, Ken and Omi kun join us?" She said as she turned to the two guys sitting across her.
"We can't Yukiko chan. Ken and I need to go to the grocery store and buy some food, we also need to take care of the shop while you're gone."
"What about Yoji kun?"
"You wouldn't like him to come along. He would be flirting all the time if he was with you. You won't get any shopping done." Ken concluded as he bit into his toast.
"I see. Why do I need to get clothes when I can just think myself one? What else can you do in a mall?"
"Almost everything really. And don't you think it's a bit tiring always using those powers of yours?"
"You're right."
"Come on Yukiko finish breakfast so we can go there already."
Yukiko finished her breakfast and rushed to the bathroom. She had learned to use the shower a few days ago and she was really enjoying the rush of water on her body. It was like a waterfall in a small room. She dried herself with a blue towel and closed her eyes and began chanting some words. When she was finished she looked at the mirror and nodded. She came out of the bathroom wearing a fit gray turtleneck and black baggy pants. She was wearing a few silver bracelets and black soft shoes. She descended the steps just as Aya was starting the car.
"Ken, Omi take care of the shop. When Yoji comes down tell him to do the grocery shopping."
"Hai Aya kun."
"Yukiko you ready?"
"Yeah."
She entered the passenger seat of the car and they sped off. Aya made a turn and turned to Yukiko. "Would you mind if we go to a place first before going to the mall?"
"No. Where are we going?"
"To the hospital."
They arrived in the Magic School Bus Hospital and Aya had went to the counter. He paid for something and then guided Yukiko into a room. When she went inside there was a girl sleeping on the bed. The room was decorated in white, the girl had violet hair braided in front of her and pale complexion. A needle was inserted on her hand and the dextrose dripped into her system in timely precision. The table beside her housed a dozen wilted roses. Aya had replaced the flowers on her bed and looked at her. He tucked some stray hair from her face and turned to Yukiko.
"Who is she Aya kun?"
"My sister in this world. She is the owner of the name I am using."
"Aya?"
"Yes, my real name is Ran."
"What happened to her?"
"She was run over by Takatori. That's why I became an assassin. So I can take my revenge."
"What is she doing here? Why doesn't she come home with us?"
"She's in a coma, a long sleep, no one knows when she will wake up that's why she's here so the people here can take care of her."
Yukiko went to her side and touched her hand. She left something long and hard on her hand and turned it to find an earring just like the one on Aya's ear. She closed her eyes and took hold of her hand again. This time images flashed through her head and feelings in her heart. She let go of her hand and turned to Aya. She realized that anyone that had her experience would also find themselves in a coma.
"I'm sorry Ran..."
"There's no need to apologize it's not your fault. Come on we still need to go to the mall."
Yukiko turned to the sleeping Aya and patted her hand. "Goodbye Aya chan." She looked at the flowers and touched them. They seemed to bloom even more and dewdrops appeared on their petals. Aya opened the door and ushered Yukiko out. He turned to Aya one more time and left the room.
They drove in silence going to the mall. When they arrived there Aya brought her to a shop where they sell clothes. Yukiko was surprised at how much clothes there was in a that shop and how much color there was. He told her to pick the ones she like and try them on. Aya helped her pick some clothes and bought her a blue sundress. They then went to another shop this time selling shoes. Aya had watched Yukiko try and decide on the things she want and smiled to himself as he was picturing Aya doing the same thing.
Yukiko had never been shopping and she found that it was very fun to chose and pick what you want. She had looked at Aya occasionally and saw that he was smiling most of the time. They had gone through most of what Yukiko needs but then Aya saw the problem about undergarments. He was not in any circumstances going to a lingerie shop with Yukiko. He told Yukiko to take a break and they entered a coffee shop. Aya ordered a cappuccino while he ordered iced tea for Yukiko.
"Are you having fun?"
"Yeah. I never had been so excited before. There are no malls in Subete. And there are so much things to see."
"Well we still have one more stop before we can go home."
"Really where?"
Aya smiled to hide his discomfort and said, "It's a secret." He looked out of the window and saw a girl of 18 walking towards the shop. She had sandy brown hair and almost the same features as Aya. Sakura was walking towards the coffee shop. She entered the shop and looked around. When she spotted Aya she went to them smiling.
"Aya kun, Yoji kun said you were here with your niece and Yoji also said that you might need some help."
"Thank you Sakura chan can I talk to you for a minute?"
"Ah sure."
"Yukiko stay here for a moment okay."
Aya took Sakura out the shop and told her his dilemma. Sakura seemed to understand and nod. When they went back to the shop Sakura smiled at Yukiko and sat across her.
"Yukiko chan would you like to join me in buying something?"
"Sure I would love too but Aya ji san..."
"Don't worry about me I'll stay here and wait for you. When you return we can have lunch."
Yukiko smiled and went out the booth they were in. She followed Sakura in a store and Sakura took her to a section of it.
Aya had sighed in relief when he saw Sakura. He pulled out his phone and decided to call Yoji.
"Hello Kitty in the house, Kodou speaking how may I help you?"
"Yoji it's Aya."
"Oi Aya kun, did you see Sakura? I sent her there when Kenken and the chibi told me you were bringing Yukiko for some shopping. I'd thought you'd need some girl's help."
"Yeah I did. How are things in the shop?"
"All right, there are some people looking for Yukiko but they left a minute ago when I told them Yukiko was with you."
"What did they look like?"
"Boys mostly. I think they're from her school."
"Where are Ken and Omi?"
"They went to the grocery a while ago. It seemed that Omi is going to cook something special tonight."
"Don't put any plans for the next week Yoji."
"Why?"
"The school festival."
"Damn it. Can't I get out of it."
"No." He saw Yukiko and Sakura come out of the shop looking happy. With that he ended the call and took the shopping bags from under the table. He went out of the shop and headed for their direction.
"Aya ji san. Sakura told me so much things. She even taught me new things."
"That's great. Ready for lunch?"
"Yeah. Sakura chan join us for lunch."
"But I can't intrude."
"Awww Sakura chan join us please..."
"She's right Sakura. Join us for lunch."
Sakura hid her blush and nodded.
"Yeey! Come on."
They had first placed the shopping bags on the trunk of Aya's car before going into a cafe for lunch. Aya had ordered for them and the lunch tray he brought carried three tall iced tea, one in red, another in orange and the last in green. The special today consisted of teriyaki and a few pieces of sushi. He wasn't really sure if Yukiko would like it but somehow he knew she would. Aya had paid for everything and it had seemed that Yukiko had suddenly went a little silent.
"Anything the matter Yukiko chan?"
"Nothing Sakura chan..." She smiled to her and looked at Aya sending the message she could not utter. Aya nodded and turned to Sakura.
"Please watch over Yukiko for a while I'll just get something okay."
"Sure Aya kun."
Aya went out of the cafe and entered an ice cream shop. He knew the look she gave him, every time she gets a burn out she needs some ice. If she didn't have any she'd collapse and everything would be disastrous. When he returned he was holding three snow cones in his hand. He went back to them and handed Yukiko one with the most ice. He handed Sakura another and he seemed reluctant to eat his own. He couldn't wait for the other guardians to wake up. Momi should be doing this not me.
After lunch Sakura had said good bye and headed to another direction while Aya and Yukiko drove back to the flower shop. Aya was looking through some shops when he saw what he was looking for. He parked at the entrance and turned to Yukiko.
"Come on."
"Why are we here?"
"We need to get you something."
Yukiko went out the car and looked at the shop's windows. There were kimonos of all sizes and colors. When they entered the shop Yukiko looked around and saw the shop as comfortable and oriental. Decorated screens divided the place and kimonos were displayed almost everywhere. Near the door accessories were displayed for the hair and next to it fans were displayed She looked up as Aya showed her a blue kimono.
"Do you like this?"
"Not really. Why do I need a kimono Aya kun?"
"The school festivals and the temple festival this week, it's just much more pleasant if you can enjoy it like the rest of the ladies in this world."
"I see..."
She looked around the shop and found an emerald green kimono displayed at the far corner of the shop. She made her way there and found that it has a design on the lower portion, near the hem of a fox's feature. The most distinguishable was the eyes. Aya had followed Yukiko's stare and smiled to himself. The kimono was exactly the one she would look good into. He told the shop owner to bring the kimono to them and when he took the kimono Yukiko was looking at him.
"You're not going to buy that are you?"
"Of course I am."
"But..."
"It doesn't matter Yukiko."
He conversed with the owner and paid for the kimono also for the sashes, obi and the geta. He looked at Yukiko as she was looking over some hair accessories and when he came to her side he saw a perfect comb to go with the kimono. It was a semi circular comb that has a design of emerald green mountains. He picked it up and expertly placed it on her hair.
"Perfect."
"You had always cared too much."
"I have too."
He smiled and told the owner that he was also buying the comb. Yukiko left a bit of longing for her love, when he will be there when she needs him, longs for him and wants him. She remembered the time he also placed jewelry in her hair, it had been in her safe place.
Flash Back
"Stop moving."
"Well if you'd just move out of my way I might stop moving."
She pulled and she felt the pain explode through her left arm again. She had jumped in the wrong place again and now she was trapped inside a giant plant. I'll never get the hang of this place. She was able to squeeze herself out but her left arm got caught in its leaves which wrapped itself around her arm and stabbed it with its thorns. She had cried out and that's when Kurama hurried to her side and tried to help her.
"Let me help."
"Fine what can you do?"
"Just don't move."
He felt his way around the leaf and found the weak point, he dug his hand in it and the plant gave off a shout and then green ichor came out of the place Kurama dug into. The leave loosen its hold and Yuko was able to pull her hand towards her. When she pulled she had pulled too much and was sent backward. In an instant Kurama was behind her, stopping her from falling to the ground a fair distance of a few meters up. She looked at her hand that is now bleeding like hell.
"You okay?"
"I think so."
Yuko raised her hand painfully and looked at it slowly. Blood were flowing from unseen punctures of the needles. They were covering her hand like a disease. She felt nothing different except the pain the wound was sending. She licked some of the blood and nodded. It was poisonous. She pulled a small bottle from her pocket and opened it by biting the stopper and pouring the liquid on her hand. She closed her eyes in pain and snarled a little at what she was doing. Kurama was about to touch her hand when Yuko stopped him.
"Don't touch it, it's poisoned."
"It doesn't matter."
He took the injured hand and raised it to his mouth. He licked the blood that was gushing out of the palm, Yuko looked at him and when his tongue touched her palm again she felt something jump inside her. She ignored it and watched as Kurama licked the blood from her palm and the wound close up a little. She pulled it towards her and painfully held it near her chest. It was one thing to help her, another to drink her blood, poisoned or not.
Kurama took a piece of cloth from his pocket and pulled her hand towards him. She snarled and growled towards him but he ignored it and proceeded in bandaging her arm. When he was finished he looked at her and found some of her hair on her face making it hard to see. He pulled a comb from his other pocket and placed it on her hair much to her detest.
"What are you doing?"
"Helping you. Maybe with that helping you make your hair not go to your eyes you might be able to see the danger around these parts."
Yuko growled towards him and pulled some strands of hair and turned them to needles. She threw them to him and he jumped away. He smiled mischievously and ran towards the direction they were currently heading. Yuko followed him touching the comb with her uninjured hand.
End of Flash Back
Aya had patted her on the head, bringing her back to reality. He guided her out of the shop and into the car. When they arrived in the house something smelling good was coming out of the kitchen. Yukiko poked her head and saw Omi in an apron cooking something.
"Omi kun what smells so good?"
"Just a few things I learned come on it's almost done you can join us for dinner."
"Yoji help me with the shopping bag." Aya shouted.
"Oh yeah. I still need to make my room."
Yukiko went to the closet and opened it. She whispered some words and when she looked again there was a big room with one bed, table, closet and chair in the room. There was also one small couch in one side. Aya was coming up the stairs when she waved her hands. Aya went beside her.
"That's nice. I'll just place these things here okay. You fix them while I get the rest."
"Okay."
Yoji came up with the rest of the bags. "Oi, neko it seems that you got new clothes for every occasion. How was it?"
"Great. You can place those in the couch Yoji kun. I'll come down to dinner after I finish up here."
"Hurry up okay Omi cooked something special."
"Okay."
"And Yukiko?"
"Hai?"
"That comb really looks great at on you."
Yukiko smiled and entered the room closing the door behind her. She had gone straight for the kimono. She opened the box and ran her hands on the fabric; she lifted it up to the light and smiled at the decoration. She placed it on and left the comb on her hair. She also wore the geta and she looked at her reflection in the mirror. She smiled as she turned around and looked at herself. Of course it was nothing compared to the dresses she had back in Subete but she had looked beautiful in a kimono. She smiled and took the kimono off her. She replaced the comb with a flower and went down the stairs to join the others.
Kurama went to school hearing nothing but the up coming school festival. It would not have bothered him much if not that this year everyone was suppose to wear a yukata or a kimono. Everyone in school had been excited and had not spoken anything else. There was suppose to be a play at the end of the week and it just happened that today was the day they were going to pick the play they are doing and the cast.
Kurama entered the room just as the teacher came in with a big smile on her face. He walked towards his table and saw that Yukiko had her head buried on her arms. Her hair was unusually untamed and the usual flower on her hair was not there. He tried to come near her but then the morning greeting was said. He sat down on his chair and looked at Yukiko. Some how he felt worried and concern towards her.
"Okay now class the play we are doing is called Rapunzel. It is a story about a girl locked up in a tower and a prince..."
The rest of the story was drowned by the whispers and the talks but to Kurama it was drowned because he could not seem to take his eyes off the girl beside him that has her head on her arms and seemed to not move. He was only able to look away when the whole class erupted in cheers and shouts.
"Now we are going to pick the cast by lottery. Now boys please put your name on the blank circles and when we reveal where your circle lands that's you're character."
All the boys placed their names on the paper as well as Kurama. He had not really cared where his name ends up all he cared right now was to know what had happened to Yukiko.
The teacher pulled the paper down and they scanned where their names fell. There were groans and moans as they found out where their names fell. It was to the delight of the ladies that Kurama had become the prince. When the paper was renewed and it was the girls' turn to put up their names there was a riot to who was going to write her name first. Kurama had noticed that Yukiko had not moved from her seat. He leaned towards her and whispered.
"Fujimiya san it's time to put your name on the paper."
"Thank you."
Yukiko was able to answer as she stood up and came forward to the board. She felt like hell right now. She felt as if her whole body was burning up, her eyes were blurry and her whole body felt like noodles. It took all her will power to stand and write her name. And all her strength to stand and not look like she just came out of bed. After she had placed her name the teacher pulled the paper and the girls scrambled to see who got the part of Rapunzel.
Everyone turned to Yukiko when they found out it was her. One girl even screamed when she became the witch. Yukiko went back to her seat and buried her head on her arms again. Her strength was depleted and her head was also pounding on her. This time when the script was passed, Kurama was handing them out he was able to pass and brush his hand on Yukiko's, he felt the heat and he raised his hand immediately. He had seen her expression when she stood up, she was sick, yes but it was only now that he was able to determine how sick she was.
"Yes Shuuichi san?"
"Sensei Fujimiya san isn't feeling very well, I think she has a fever."
The teacher came to them and touched Yukiko's temple. God she's hot. She pulled it back when she felt it, as if she touched a kettle with boiling water. She turned to Shuuichi and said,
"Please take her to the clinic and inform the nurse. I'll call her uncle to come and pick her up."
Shuuichi took one look at Yukiko and knew that she won't be able to walk to the clinic so he picked up her script and her bag and carried her in his arms to the clinic. Her head lolled to his side, using his shoulder to hold it up. Her face was flushed and her eyes were closed. Her body felt limp and void of movement when he lifted her up. The girls in their class cursed and envied Yukiko for the attention and the incident. Shuuichi felt the intense heat that was coming out of Yukiko and was sincerely worried at her condition. When he got to the clinic he placed her in one of the beds and sat beside her, holding her hand in his.
"What happened to her?"
"She has a fever. A very high one."
"Okay I'll take her temperature. Will someone pick her up?"
"Yes her uncle is coming."
Just then Aya and Omi came into the clinic wearing the look of something bad happened and ready to kill if Yukiko was hurt. When they saw Yukiko laying on the bed flushed and breathing heavily with a cloth on her head only one thing went to their head, Oh god what happened to her? Aya saw Kurama holding Yukiko's hand but ignored it he went to Yukiko's side and placed his hand on her temple.
"Is she all right?"
"We don't know the nurse is taking her temperature."
"Oh my god. We need to rush her to the hospital. Her temperature is 65 degrees."
"What?"
"That's impossible."
Aya had known she was in trouble when his hand felt her temple. He took her bag and picked her up from the bed, her head rested oh his right chest and her hand on her stomach. Her breath felt like steam on his chest and then he turned to Omi.
"I'm taking her home. Tell Ken and Yoji to pick her assignments up before closing all right."
"Okay Aya take care all right."
When Aya turned to leave Kurama stood up and followed them out of the school grounds when Aya had placed Yukiko on the passenger seat, making quite sure that she was comfortable, he turned to Kurama and glared at him.
"What do you want?"
"She forgot her script. She's playing Rapunzel in the play at the end of the week. Please remind her."
Aya took the script and nodded he went to the driver's seat and started the car and left the school.
It had been dress rehearsals when Yukiko was able to join them for practices. Kurama had updated her almost every night on the phone making quite sure that she was all right and had enough rest. Now that she was with the others she was quite a bit scared. She emerged from the dressing room wearing a medieval dress, The puff on the shoulder was off white, the upper shirt was red and the lower a lighter shade of red. When Kurama saw her he smiled.
"Don't worry just do what I told you to do and you'll be fine."
"Do I really have to get up that high tower thing?"
"Yeah but don't worry there are people up there to help you if you need help."
Yukiko nodded and slowly ascended the stairs. With the heavy dress it was a slow climb. The stage was wonderfully made and the tower was he most spectacular. When she was in the tower room she looked around and found a small bed on the right side, a table on the left and a stool near the mirror. When she heard the cue she took her position and waited.
"Rapunzel Rapunzel let down your hair so I may climb the golden stairs."
Yukiko lowered the synthetic hair that was connected to her hair and watched as the girl, dressed as a witch climbed up. The lights switched to the place where Yukiko was and the witch placed the basket on the table.
"What have you been doing while I was away?"
"Sewing as you have taught me and singing to pass the time."
"Come here child and let me comb that hair of yours."
Yukiko sat on the stool and the witch pulled a brush from the basket. She took the braid off and combed Yukiko's hair roughly and smiled at her.
"What does the outside look like?"
"Terrible my dear, absolutely terrible… You are lucky to be up here in the tower."
The witch placed the brush away and braided her hair pulling her hair roughly at that. She looked outside.
"It is time for me to go. Until tomorrow child."
When the witch went away Kurama came out and looked around. He was wearing a blue prince outfit which made him look hot. He looked up at the tower and said,
"Rapunzel Rapunzel let down your hair, so I may climb the golden stairs."
Yukiko threw the synthetic hair down and waited, Kurama was about to climb the hair when a shout made him look up just in time to see Yukiko fall down the made up tower. He quickly went to the place she was going to fall to and caught her. He looked up and saw three faces quickly going back in the tower.
"Are you all right?"
"I-I think so."
"Why don't we do another scene we can skip this when everyone is away then we'll do it."
Yukiko nodded and Kurama put her down on her feet. She went backstage to change her costume, holding her left chest trying to slow the beat of her heart. The crew changed the setting to the forest and a narrator came out, wearing a simple white dress with a balloon skirt.
"After the witch knew of the plan she cut off Rapunzel's hair and banished her in the deepest part of the forest. She used the hair to lure the prince in climbing the tower and when there she revealed herself and pushed the dear prince out of the tower. The prince fell from the tower and unto the thorny bushes on the side of the tower and became blind. He lived in the forest for years trying to find his Rapunzel. He had wandered deeper and deeper until he heard the lovely voice of the one he loves, feeding off on berries and roots."
The narrator moved away from the stage and it burst into light and Kurama entered with tattered prince clothes. Yukiko on the other hand was sitting on a stone making a flower crown, wearing a simple blue dress and her hair the normal length waist length.
"Rapunzel Rapunzel?"
"My prince."
Yukiko went to Kurama and hugged him tenderly. She felt something else upon his touch. It triggered memories and feelings.
"I thought I would never see you."
"And I thought I would never hear your voice but alas it is impossible to see your lovely face again my love."
Yukiko looked into Kurama's eyes and felt something different, it was impossible she was saying to herself. Kurama placed his hands on her cheeks and caressed it.
"The witch had thrown me off the tower and every since I became blind. Do you still love me Rapunzel even though my eyes are gone?"
"But of course my prince I will always love you."
Yukiko's tears fell freely not because of the moment but because she could finally understand Rapunzel's feelings. They had sat on the floor of the stage and as Yukiko stroke Kurama's hair her tears fell on his eyes and Kurama in turn raised his hands and wiped her tears away.
"Do not cry love, I could see once again."
"My prince."
Kurama sat beside Yukiko and hugged her.
"I could see again."
He pushed her gently away and slowly leaned to kiss her just as the lights dimmed and the curtain fell in front of them. Kurama had not stopped but instead continued the kiss that was never meant to be given. He kissed her passionately on the lips that made something in him shout that what he was doing was right and then the other that he should not have done it. When he broke it he looked into her eyes and found something that had him remember something from the past.
"Yuko..."
Just then the curtains opened again and they could hear clapping from the audience. Kurama stood up and offered his hand to Yukiko. She accepted it and stood up. Kurama guided her a few steps forward and bowed. He turned to Yukiko and smiled towards her. She smiled back but reluctantly. She was not sure but she felt Kurama in the person that was beside him. She knew Kurama took refuge in the real world but she was still waiting for her Youko, not a human but a Youko.
Aya had waited for Yukiko to finish changing and when she came out he took the comb from her hair and arranged it. Yukiko smiled up to him and took one long look at him. He was wearing a red yukata and the earring glistened in the festival's lights.
"I never thought you would look wonderful in a yukata."
"Ah well you look terrific in that kimono."
"Thank you."
They had walked out of the auditorium and when they were out in the night sky Yukiko brightened at the things she saw. Just then Omi, Ken and Yoji joined the two of them. Yoji had worn a golden yukata while Omi wore a green one and Ken a blue one. She remembered his guardians instantly. She smiled to them.
"What are you doing here? Aren't you suppose to be at the booth?"
"We sold out the minute the show started. That's why we were able to watch the show. You were splendid." Omi said handing her a freesia.
"Chibi's right neko you looked like a real princess." Yoji said as he handed her an orchid.
"A real flower among the weeds." Ken added placing the geranium in her hair, just above the comb.
"A rose among the thorns." Aya concluded pulling a rose from behind him and placing it beside Ken's geranium. He took the freesia and the orchid and also placed in with the other two flowers.
"Thank you guys."
"So where do you wish to go first"
"I dunno. They said there were fish tanks here?"
"Yeah it's near the snack stand. We can see the fishes and get something to eat too." Omi said as he pointed the way to the place.
When they got there every guy was looking at Yukiko. She bent down to watch the fishes and boys crowded to look at her. The flowers did wonders of her outfit and with that everyone had wanted to stare at her.
"Ne neko which one would you like me to catch?"
Yukiko turned to Yoji and smiled at him. "That's not really necessary Yoji kun. I just like to look at them."
"Come on which one I'll get it for you."
Yukiko turned back to the goldfishes in the tank and looked at them. She smiled and saw a flaming one near the corner. She pointed this to Yoji who in turn bought a net and tried to catch the fish. It evaded his net and then destroyed it. He bought another one and it had seemed that every one else wanted the fish.
Yukiko giggled at the attempts Yoji and the others were doing. Even Ken and Omi were hiding their laughter. Then a new net was placed in the water and in a flick of the wrist, in an instant the fish was caught in his bowl. Yukiko looked at the owner of the net and saw that it was Kurama. He was looking at the fish intently.
"I got the wrong fish." He looked at Yukiko and handed her the plastic containing the fish.
"You can have this. It seemed that everyone wanted to get him for you." Yukiko watched as the fish swam around the plastic and hesitated.
"But this is yours."
"Don't worry about it. You can have it." Yukiko took the fish and bowed.
"Thank you Shuuichi san."
"See you around." He waved and disappeared in the crowd. Yukiko looked at the fish and smiled.
"Yukiko chan try this." Ken offered her a stick with a funny looking thing on it.
"What's that Ken kun?"
"This is grilled squid. Try it it's really good."
Yukiko took one and bit into it. She smiled and nodded. "Yeah it is good."
"Yukiko pick the food you want to eat."
"What is that?" She pointed to the pink puff ball on the stick.
"That's called cotton candy. It's sweet and made of sugar."
"I want one of those."
Yukiko had one cotton candy and was eating it when they got to a shooting range. Omi paid for a gun and shot down five figure and kept shooting down more figures. Guys that were also playing tried to top it and win something when they saw Yukiko. He received a big rabbit stuff toy and gave it to Yukiko.
"Thanks." She cuddled it and went to the other booths. Then she heard a very loud sound and it made her jump.
"Don't worry Yukiko it's just the drums. It's the signal that the festival is about to end. Come on you'll like the program." Omi pulled her to the school field and pointed her to the giant drum.
"Wow."
They were all currently too involved in the program to notice that Yukiko had wandered out of their sight. She was walking into a dark place when she saw some glowing things. She followed them and saw that they all go to a single tree. She went to it and looked up. She was fascinated by the glow things because it had made the tree look beautiful. She was walking around when she bumped into someone and was pushed backward. Before she could fall strong hands pulled her up and when she looked up it was Kurama.
Kurama had not noticed the kimono Yukiko was wearing until now. It was in an emerald shade and the design on the hem made him remember his Youko life. He remembered meeting a girl just like Yukiko but he ignored the thought and looked at her even more, finally noticing the comb on her hair and the flowers that was on top of it.
"Hi."
"uhm... Hi."
"What are you doing here?"
"I was following the green lights. I didn't mean to bump into you."
"Don't worry about it." He looked up and pointed something to Yukiko.
"See those lights? Watch them, when the last drums ring you'll see something wonderful."
Yukiko looked up and watched the lights. The drums erupted in the distance and she watched intently at the lights. When the last drum sounded everything became dark and then all of a sudden the lights slowly twinkles one by one, alternate from the other and it had seemed that the tree was glowing.
"This is wonderful."
"I agree..."
Yukiko turned to Kurama only to see that he was looking at her. That was the only time she saw that Kurama was wearing a yukata with a deep shade of green with bamboo shoots as design.
"Fujimiya san you look great tonight. Especially in your kimono."
"Th-thank you."
She averted her eyes and tried to hide her blush but Kurama had pulled her face to him and they looked at each other's eyes. Kurama leaned to kiss her and she slowly closed her eyes when the voices of the four guys rang to the night air. Kurama looked towards the fading lights of the festival and smiled to Yukiko.
"They're looking for you. Tell no one of what you saw tonight. It was my secret but I don't mind sharing it with you."
"I won't and thank you for sharing it."
Kurama smiled towards her and She smiled towards him. She leaned and kissed him on the cheek before running to the direction of the voices. Kurama followed her through sight as she ran towards the fading lights and the voices of the four guys. He smiled to himself.
"Yuko..."
Blood
That Saturday morning as Yukiko was having breakfast with the three guys, she was wearing an oversized shirt from Aya's closet. Yoji was still sleeping, Aya had cleared his throat and looked at Yukiko.
"After breakfast get ready, we're going to the mall."
"What's a mall? Why are we going there?"
"A mall's a place where you buy things you need."
"No, you'll be using too much power."
"Oh ok. Would Yoji, Ken and Omi kun join us?" She said as she turned to the two guys sitting across her.
"We can't Yukiko chan. Ken and I need to go to the grocery store and buy some food, we also need to take care of the shop while you're gone."
"What about Yoji kun?"
"You wouldn't like him to come along. He would be flirting all the time if he was with you. You won't get any shopping done." Ken concluded as he bit into his toast.
"I see. Why do I need to get clothes when I can just think myself one? What else can you do in a mall?"
"Almost everything really. And don't you think it's a bit tiring always using those powers of yours?"
"You're right."
"Come on Yukiko finish breakfast so we can go there already."
Yukiko finished her breakfast and rushed to the bathroom. She had learned to use the shower a few days ago and she was really enjoying the rush of water on her body. It was like a waterfall in a small room. She dried herself with a blue towel and closed her eyes and began chanting some words. When she was finished she looked at the mirror and nodded. She came out of the bathroom wearing a fit gray turtleneck and black baggy pants. She was wearing a few silver bracelets and black soft shoes. She descended the steps just as Aya was starting the car.
"Ken, Omi take care of the shop. When Yoji comes down tell him to do the grocery shopping."
"Hai Aya kun."
"Yukiko you ready?"
"Yeah."
She entered the passenger seat of the car and they sped off. Aya made a turn and turned to Yukiko. "Would you mind if we go to a place first before going to the mall?"
"No. Where are we going?"
"To the hospital."
They arrived in the Magic School Bus Hospital and Aya had went to the counter. He paid for something and then guided Yukiko into a room. When she went inside there was a girl sleeping on the bed. The room was decorated in white, the girl had violet hair braided in front of her and pale complexion. A needle was inserted on her hand and the dextrose dripped into her system in timely precision. The table beside her housed a dozen wilted roses. Aya had replaced the flowers on her bed and looked at her. He tucked some stray hair from her face and turned to Yukiko.
"Who is she Aya kun?"
"My sister in this world. She is the owner of the name I am using."
"Aya?"
"Yes, my real name is Ran."
"What happened to her?"
"She was run over by Takatori. That's why I became an assassin. So I can take my revenge."
"What is she doing here? Why doesn't she come home with us?"
"She's in a coma, a long sleep, no one knows when she will wake up that's why she's here so the people here can take care of her."
Yukiko went to her side and touched her hand. She left something long and hard on her hand and turned it to find an earring just like the one on Aya's ear. She closed her eyes and took hold of her hand again. This time images flashed through her head and feelings in her heart. She let go of her hand and turned to Aya. She realized that anyone that had her experience would also find themselves in a coma.
"I'm sorry Ran..."
"There's no need to apologize it's not your fault. Come on we still need to go to the mall."
Yukiko turned to the sleeping Aya and patted her hand. "Goodbye Aya chan." She looked at the flowers and touched them. They seemed to bloom even more and dewdrops appeared on their petals. Aya opened the door and ushered Yukiko out. He turned to Aya one more time and left the room.
They drove in silence going to the mall. When they arrived there Aya brought her to a shop where they sell clothes. Yukiko was surprised at how much clothes there was in a that shop and how much color there was. He told her to pick the ones she like and try them on. Aya helped her pick some clothes and bought her a blue sundress. They then went to another shop this time selling shoes. Aya had watched Yukiko try and decide on the things she want and smiled to himself as he was picturing Aya doing the same thing.
Yukiko had never been shopping and she found that it was very fun to chose and pick what you want. She had looked at Aya occasionally and saw that he was smiling most of the time. They had gone through most of what Yukiko needs but then Aya saw the problem about undergarments. He was not in any circumstances going to a lingerie shop with Yukiko. He told Yukiko to take a break and they entered a coffee shop. Aya ordered a cappuccino while he ordered iced tea for Yukiko.
"Are you having fun?"
"Yeah. I never had been so excited before. There are no malls in Subete. And there are so much things to see."
"Well we still have one more stop before we can go home."
"Really where?"
Aya smiled to hide his discomfort and said, "It's a secret." He looked out of the window and saw a girl of 18 walking towards the shop. She had sandy brown hair and almost the same features as Aya. Sakura was walking towards the coffee shop. She entered the shop and looked around. When she spotted Aya she went to them smiling.
"Aya kun, Yoji kun said you were here with your niece and Yoji also said that you might need some help."
"Thank you Sakura chan can I talk to you for a minute?"
"Ah sure."
"Yukiko stay here for a moment okay."
Aya took Sakura out the shop and told her his dilemma. Sakura seemed to understand and nod. When they went back to the shop Sakura smiled at Yukiko and sat across her.
"Yukiko chan would you like to join me in buying something?"
"Sure I would love too but Aya ji san..."
"Don't worry about me I'll stay here and wait for you. When you return we can have lunch."
Yukiko smiled and went out the booth they were in. She followed Sakura in a store and Sakura took her to a section of it.
Aya had sighed in relief when he saw Sakura. He pulled out his phone and decided to call Yoji.
"Hello Kitty in the house, Kodou speaking how may I help you?"
"Yoji it's Aya."
"Oi Aya kun, did you see Sakura? I sent her there when Kenken and the chibi told me you were bringing Yukiko for some shopping. I'd thought you'd need some girl's help."
"Yeah I did. How are things in the shop?"
"All right, there are some people looking for Yukiko but they left a minute ago when I told them Yukiko was with you."
"What did they look like?"
"Boys mostly. I think they're from her school."
"Where are Ken and Omi?"
"They went to the grocery a while ago. It seemed that Omi is going to cook something special tonight."
"Don't put any plans for the next week Yoji."
"Why?"
"The school festival."
"Damn it. Can't I get out of it."
"No." He saw Yukiko and Sakura come out of the shop looking happy. With that he ended the call and took the shopping bags from under the table. He went out of the shop and headed for their direction.
"Aya ji san. Sakura told me so much things. She even taught me new things."
"That's great. Ready for lunch?"
"Yeah. Sakura chan join us for lunch."
"But I can't intrude."
"Awww Sakura chan join us please..."
"She's right Sakura. Join us for lunch."
Sakura hid her blush and nodded.
"Yeey! Come on."
They had first placed the shopping bags on the trunk of Aya's car before going into a cafe for lunch. Aya had ordered for them and the lunch tray he brought carried three tall iced tea, one in red, another in orange and the last in green. The special today consisted of teriyaki and a few pieces of sushi. He wasn't really sure if Yukiko would like it but somehow he knew she would. Aya had paid for everything and it had seemed that Yukiko had suddenly went a little silent.
"Anything the matter Yukiko chan?"
"Nothing Sakura chan..." She smiled to her and looked at Aya sending the message she could not utter. Aya nodded and turned to Sakura.
"Please watch over Yukiko for a while I'll just get something okay."
"Sure Aya kun."
Aya went out of the cafe and entered an ice cream shop. He knew the look she gave him, every time she gets a burn out she needs some ice. If she didn't have any she'd collapse and everything would be disastrous. When he returned he was holding three snow cones in his hand. He went back to them and handed Yukiko one with the most ice. He handed Sakura another and he seemed reluctant to eat his own. He couldn't wait for the other guardians to wake up. Momi should be doing this not me.
After lunch Sakura had said good bye and headed to another direction while Aya and Yukiko drove back to the flower shop. Aya was looking through some shops when he saw what he was looking for. He parked at the entrance and turned to Yukiko.
"Come on."
"Why are we here?"
"We need to get you something."
Yukiko went out the car and looked at the shop's windows. There were kimonos of all sizes and colors. When they entered the shop Yukiko looked around and saw the shop as comfortable and oriental. Decorated screens divided the place and kimonos were displayed almost everywhere. Near the door accessories were displayed for the hair and next to it fans were displayed She looked up as Aya showed her a blue kimono.
"Do you like this?"
"Not really. Why do I need a kimono Aya kun?"
"The school festivals and the temple festival this week, it's just much more pleasant if you can enjoy it like the rest of the ladies in this world."
"I see..."
She looked around the shop and found an emerald green kimono displayed at the far corner of the shop. She made her way there and found that it has a design on the lower portion, near the hem of a fox's feature. The most distinguishable was the eyes. Aya had followed Yukiko's stare and smiled to himself. The kimono was exactly the one she would look good into. He told the shop owner to bring the kimono to them and when he took the kimono Yukiko was looking at him.
"You're not going to buy that are you?"
"Of course I am."
"But..."
"It doesn't matter Yukiko."
He conversed with the owner and paid for the kimono also for the sashes, obi and the geta. He looked at Yukiko as she was looking over some hair accessories and when he came to her side he saw a perfect comb to go with the kimono. It was a semi circular comb that has a design of emerald green mountains. He picked it up and expertly placed it on her hair.
"Perfect."
"You had always cared too much."
"I have too."
He smiled and told the owner that he was also buying the comb. Yukiko left a bit of longing for her love, when he will be there when she needs him, longs for him and wants him. She remembered the time he also placed jewelry in her hair, it had been in her safe place.
Flash Back
"Stop moving."
"Well if you'd just move out of my way I might stop moving."
She pulled and she felt the pain explode through her left arm again. She had jumped in the wrong place again and now she was trapped inside a giant plant. I'll never get the hang of this place. She was able to squeeze herself out but her left arm got caught in its leaves which wrapped itself around her arm and stabbed it with its thorns. She had cried out and that's when Kurama hurried to her side and tried to help her.
"Let me help."
"Fine what can you do?"
"Just don't move."
He felt his way around the leaf and found the weak point, he dug his hand in it and the plant gave off a shout and then green ichor came out of the place Kurama dug into. The leave loosen its hold and Yuko was able to pull her hand towards her. When she pulled she had pulled too much and was sent backward. In an instant Kurama was behind her, stopping her from falling to the ground a fair distance of a few meters up. She looked at her hand that is now bleeding like hell.
"You okay?"
"I think so."
Yuko raised her hand painfully and looked at it slowly. Blood were flowing from unseen punctures of the needles. They were covering her hand like a disease. She felt nothing different except the pain the wound was sending. She licked some of the blood and nodded. It was poisonous. She pulled a small bottle from her pocket and opened it by biting the stopper and pouring the liquid on her hand. She closed her eyes in pain and snarled a little at what she was doing. Kurama was about to touch her hand when Yuko stopped him.
"Don't touch it, it's poisoned."
"It doesn't matter."
He took the injured hand and raised it to his mouth. He licked the blood that was gushing out of the palm, Yuko looked at him and when his tongue touched her palm again she felt something jump inside her. She ignored it and watched as Kurama licked the blood from her palm and the wound close up a little. She pulled it towards her and painfully held it near her chest. It was one thing to help her, another to drink her blood, poisoned or not.
Kurama took a piece of cloth from his pocket and pulled her hand towards him. She snarled and growled towards him but he ignored it and proceeded in bandaging her arm. When he was finished he looked at her and found some of her hair on her face making it hard to see. He pulled a comb from his other pocket and placed it on her hair much to her detest.
"What are you doing?"
"Helping you. Maybe with that helping you make your hair not go to your eyes you might be able to see the danger around these parts."
Yuko growled towards him and pulled some strands of hair and turned them to needles. She threw them to him and he jumped away. He smiled mischievously and ran towards the direction they were currently heading. Yuko followed him touching the comb with her uninjured hand.
End of Flash Back
Aya had patted her on the head, bringing her back to reality. He guided her out of the shop and into the car. When they arrived in the house something smelling good was coming out of the kitchen. Yukiko poked her head and saw Omi in an apron cooking something.
"Omi kun what smells so good?"
"Just a few things I learned come on it's almost done you can join us for dinner."
"Yoji help me with the shopping bag." Aya shouted.
"Oh yeah. I still need to make my room."
Yukiko went to the closet and opened it. She whispered some words and when she looked again there was a big room with one bed, table, closet and chair in the room. There was also one small couch in one side. Aya was coming up the stairs when she waved her hands. Aya went beside her.
"That's nice. I'll just place these things here okay. You fix them while I get the rest."
"Okay."
Yoji came up with the rest of the bags. "Oi, neko it seems that you got new clothes for every occasion. How was it?"
"Great. You can place those in the couch Yoji kun. I'll come down to dinner after I finish up here."
"Hurry up okay Omi cooked something special."
"Okay."
"And Yukiko?"
"Hai?"
"That comb really looks great at on you."
Yukiko smiled and entered the room closing the door behind her. She had gone straight for the kimono. She opened the box and ran her hands on the fabric; she lifted it up to the light and smiled at the decoration. She placed it on and left the comb on her hair. She also wore the geta and she looked at her reflection in the mirror. She smiled as she turned around and looked at herself. Of course it was nothing compared to the dresses she had back in Subete but she had looked beautiful in a kimono. She smiled and took the kimono off her. She replaced the comb with a flower and went down the stairs to join the others.
Kurama went to school hearing nothing but the up coming school festival. It would not have bothered him much if not that this year everyone was suppose to wear a yukata or a kimono. Everyone in school had been excited and had not spoken anything else. There was suppose to be a play at the end of the week and it just happened that today was the day they were going to pick the play they are doing and the cast.
Kurama entered the room just as the teacher came in with a big smile on her face. He walked towards his table and saw that Yukiko had her head buried on her arms. Her hair was unusually untamed and the usual flower on her hair was not there. He tried to come near her but then the morning greeting was said. He sat down on his chair and looked at Yukiko. Some how he felt worried and concern towards her.
"Okay now class the play we are doing is called Rapunzel. It is a story about a girl locked up in a tower and a prince..."
The rest of the story was drowned by the whispers and the talks but to Kurama it was drowned because he could not seem to take his eyes off the girl beside him that has her head on her arms and seemed to not move. He was only able to look away when the whole class erupted in cheers and shouts.
"Now we are going to pick the cast by lottery. Now boys please put your name on the blank circles and when we reveal where your circle lands that's you're character."
All the boys placed their names on the paper as well as Kurama. He had not really cared where his name ends up all he cared right now was to know what had happened to Yukiko.
The teacher pulled the paper down and they scanned where their names fell. There were groans and moans as they found out where their names fell. It was to the delight of the ladies that Kurama had become the prince. When the paper was renewed and it was the girls' turn to put up their names there was a riot to who was going to write her name first. Kurama had noticed that Yukiko had not moved from her seat. He leaned towards her and whispered.
"Fujimiya san it's time to put your name on the paper."
"Thank you."
Yukiko was able to answer as she stood up and came forward to the board. She felt like hell right now. She felt as if her whole body was burning up, her eyes were blurry and her whole body felt like noodles. It took all her will power to stand and write her name. And all her strength to stand and not look like she just came out of bed. After she had placed her name the teacher pulled the paper and the girls scrambled to see who got the part of Rapunzel.
Everyone turned to Yukiko when they found out it was her. One girl even screamed when she became the witch. Yukiko went back to her seat and buried her head on her arms again. Her strength was depleted and her head was also pounding on her. This time when the script was passed, Kurama was handing them out he was able to pass and brush his hand on Yukiko's, he felt the heat and he raised his hand immediately. He had seen her expression when she stood up, she was sick, yes but it was only now that he was able to determine how sick she was.
"Yes Shuuichi san?"
"Sensei Fujimiya san isn't feeling very well, I think she has a fever."
The teacher came to them and touched Yukiko's temple. God she's hot. She pulled it back when she felt it, as if she touched a kettle with boiling water. She turned to Shuuichi and said,
"Please take her to the clinic and inform the nurse. I'll call her uncle to come and pick her up."
Shuuichi took one look at Yukiko and knew that she won't be able to walk to the clinic so he picked up her script and her bag and carried her in his arms to the clinic. Her head lolled to his side, using his shoulder to hold it up. Her face was flushed and her eyes were closed. Her body felt limp and void of movement when he lifted her up. The girls in their class cursed and envied Yukiko for the attention and the incident. Shuuichi felt the intense heat that was coming out of Yukiko and was sincerely worried at her condition. When he got to the clinic he placed her in one of the beds and sat beside her, holding her hand in his.
"What happened to her?"
"She has a fever. A very high one."
"Okay I'll take her temperature. Will someone pick her up?"
"Yes her uncle is coming."
Just then Aya and Omi came into the clinic wearing the look of something bad happened and ready to kill if Yukiko was hurt. When they saw Yukiko laying on the bed flushed and breathing heavily with a cloth on her head only one thing went to their head, Oh god what happened to her? Aya saw Kurama holding Yukiko's hand but ignored it he went to Yukiko's side and placed his hand on her temple.
"Is she all right?"
"We don't know the nurse is taking her temperature."
"Oh my god. We need to rush her to the hospital. Her temperature is 65 degrees."
"What?"
"That's impossible."
Aya had known she was in trouble when his hand felt her temple. He took her bag and picked her up from the bed, her head rested oh his right chest and her hand on her stomach. Her breath felt like steam on his chest and then he turned to Omi.
"I'm taking her home. Tell Ken and Yoji to pick her assignments up before closing all right."
"Okay Aya take care all right."
When Aya turned to leave Kurama stood up and followed them out of the school grounds when Aya had placed Yukiko on the passenger seat, making quite sure that she was comfortable, he turned to Kurama and glared at him.
"What do you want?"
"She forgot her script. She's playing Rapunzel in the play at the end of the week. Please remind her."
Aya took the script and nodded he went to the driver's seat and started the car and left the school.
It had been dress rehearsals when Yukiko was able to join them for practices. Kurama had updated her almost every night on the phone making quite sure that she was all right and had enough rest. Now that she was with the others she was quite a bit scared. She emerged from the dressing room wearing a medieval dress, The puff on the shoulder was off white, the upper shirt was red and the lower a lighter shade of red. When Kurama saw her he smiled.
"Don't worry just do what I told you to do and you'll be fine."
"Do I really have to get up that high tower thing?"
"Yeah but don't worry there are people up there to help you if you need help."
Yukiko nodded and slowly ascended the stairs. With the heavy dress it was a slow climb. The stage was wonderfully made and the tower was he most spectacular. When she was in the tower room she looked around and found a small bed on the right side, a table on the left and a stool near the mirror. When she heard the cue she took her position and waited.
"Rapunzel Rapunzel let down your hair so I may climb the golden stairs."
Yukiko lowered the synthetic hair that was connected to her hair and watched as the girl, dressed as a witch climbed up. The lights switched to the place where Yukiko was and the witch placed the basket on the table.
"What have you been doing while I was away?"
"Sewing as you have taught me and singing to pass the time."
"Come here child and let me comb that hair of yours."
Yukiko sat on the stool and the witch pulled a brush from the basket. She took the braid off and combed Yukiko's hair roughly and smiled at her.
"What does the outside look like?"
"Terrible my dear, absolutely terrible… You are lucky to be up here in the tower."
The witch placed the brush away and braided her hair pulling her hair roughly at that. She looked outside.
"It is time for me to go. Until tomorrow child."
When the witch went away Kurama came out and looked around. He was wearing a blue prince outfit which made him look hot. He looked up at the tower and said,
"Rapunzel Rapunzel let down your hair, so I may climb the golden stairs."
Yukiko threw the synthetic hair down and waited, Kurama was about to climb the hair when a shout made him look up just in time to see Yukiko fall down the made up tower. He quickly went to the place she was going to fall to and caught her. He looked up and saw three faces quickly going back in the tower.
"Are you all right?"
"I-I think so."
"Why don't we do another scene we can skip this when everyone is away then we'll do it."
Yukiko nodded and Kurama put her down on her feet. She went backstage to change her costume, holding her left chest trying to slow the beat of her heart. The crew changed the setting to the forest and a narrator came out, wearing a simple white dress with a balloon skirt.
"After the witch knew of the plan she cut off Rapunzel's hair and banished her in the deepest part of the forest. She used the hair to lure the prince in climbing the tower and when there she revealed herself and pushed the dear prince out of the tower. The prince fell from the tower and unto the thorny bushes on the side of the tower and became blind. He lived in the forest for years trying to find his Rapunzel. He had wandered deeper and deeper until he heard the lovely voice of the one he loves, feeding off on berries and roots."
The narrator moved away from the stage and it burst into light and Kurama entered with tattered prince clothes. Yukiko on the other hand was sitting on a stone making a flower crown, wearing a simple blue dress and her hair the normal length waist length.
"Rapunzel Rapunzel?"
"My prince."
Yukiko went to Kurama and hugged him tenderly. She felt something else upon his touch. It triggered memories and feelings.
"I thought I would never see you."
"And I thought I would never hear your voice but alas it is impossible to see your lovely face again my love."
Yukiko looked into Kurama's eyes and felt something different, it was impossible she was saying to herself. Kurama placed his hands on her cheeks and caressed it.
"The witch had thrown me off the tower and every since I became blind. Do you still love me Rapunzel even though my eyes are gone?"
"But of course my prince I will always love you."
Yukiko's tears fell freely not because of the moment but because she could finally understand Rapunzel's feelings. They had sat on the floor of the stage and as Yukiko stroke Kurama's hair her tears fell on his eyes and Kurama in turn raised his hands and wiped her tears away.
"Do not cry love, I could see once again."
"My prince."
Kurama sat beside Yukiko and hugged her.
"I could see again."
He pushed her gently away and slowly leaned to kiss her just as the lights dimmed and the curtain fell in front of them. Kurama had not stopped but instead continued the kiss that was never meant to be given. He kissed her passionately on the lips that made something in him shout that what he was doing was right and then the other that he should not have done it. When he broke it he looked into her eyes and found something that had him remember something from the past.
"Yuko..."
Just then the curtains opened again and they could hear clapping from the audience. Kurama stood up and offered his hand to Yukiko. She accepted it and stood up. Kurama guided her a few steps forward and bowed. He turned to Yukiko and smiled towards her. She smiled back but reluctantly. She was not sure but she felt Kurama in the person that was beside him. She knew Kurama took refuge in the real world but she was still waiting for her Youko, not a human but a Youko.
Aya had waited for Yukiko to finish changing and when she came out he took the comb from her hair and arranged it. Yukiko smiled up to him and took one long look at him. He was wearing a red yukata and the earring glistened in the festival's lights.
"I never thought you would look wonderful in a yukata."
"Ah well you look terrific in that kimono."
"Thank you."
They had walked out of the auditorium and when they were out in the night sky Yukiko brightened at the things she saw. Just then Omi, Ken and Yoji joined the two of them. Yoji had worn a golden yukata while Omi wore a green one and Ken a blue one. She remembered his guardians instantly. She smiled to them.
"What are you doing here? Aren't you suppose to be at the booth?"
"We sold out the minute the show started. That's why we were able to watch the show. You were splendid." Omi said handing her a freesia.
"Chibi's right neko you looked like a real princess." Yoji said as he handed her an orchid.
"A real flower among the weeds." Ken added placing the geranium in her hair, just above the comb.
"A rose among the thorns." Aya concluded pulling a rose from behind him and placing it beside Ken's geranium. He took the freesia and the orchid and also placed in with the other two flowers.
"Thank you guys."
"So where do you wish to go first"
"I dunno. They said there were fish tanks here?"
"Yeah it's near the snack stand. We can see the fishes and get something to eat too." Omi said as he pointed the way to the place.
When they got there every guy was looking at Yukiko. She bent down to watch the fishes and boys crowded to look at her. The flowers did wonders of her outfit and with that everyone had wanted to stare at her.
"Ne neko which one would you like me to catch?"
Yukiko turned to Yoji and smiled at him. "That's not really necessary Yoji kun. I just like to look at them."
"Come on which one I'll get it for you."
Yukiko turned back to the goldfishes in the tank and looked at them. She smiled and saw a flaming one near the corner. She pointed this to Yoji who in turn bought a net and tried to catch the fish. It evaded his net and then destroyed it. He bought another one and it had seemed that every one else wanted the fish.
Yukiko giggled at the attempts Yoji and the others were doing. Even Ken and Omi were hiding their laughter. Then a new net was placed in the water and in a flick of the wrist, in an instant the fish was caught in his bowl. Yukiko looked at the owner of the net and saw that it was Kurama. He was looking at the fish intently.
"I got the wrong fish." He looked at Yukiko and handed her the plastic containing the fish.
"You can have this. It seemed that everyone wanted to get him for you." Yukiko watched as the fish swam around the plastic and hesitated.
"But this is yours."
"Don't worry about it. You can have it." Yukiko took the fish and bowed.
"Thank you Shuuichi san."
"See you around." He waved and disappeared in the crowd. Yukiko looked at the fish and smiled.
"Yukiko chan try this." Ken offered her a stick with a funny looking thing on it.
"What's that Ken kun?"
"This is grilled squid. Try it it's really good."
Yukiko took one and bit into it. She smiled and nodded. "Yeah it is good."
"Yukiko pick the food you want to eat."
"What is that?" She pointed to the pink puff ball on the stick.
"That's called cotton candy. It's sweet and made of sugar."
"I want one of those."
Yukiko had one cotton candy and was eating it when they got to a shooting range. Omi paid for a gun and shot down five figure and kept shooting down more figures. Guys that were also playing tried to top it and win something when they saw Yukiko. He received a big rabbit stuff toy and gave it to Yukiko.
"Thanks." She cuddled it and went to the other booths. Then she heard a very loud sound and it made her jump.
"Don't worry Yukiko it's just the drums. It's the signal that the festival is about to end. Come on you'll like the program." Omi pulled her to the school field and pointed her to the giant drum.
"Wow."
They were all currently too involved in the program to notice that Yukiko had wandered out of their sight. She was walking into a dark place when she saw some glowing things. She followed them and saw that they all go to a single tree. She went to it and looked up. She was fascinated by the glow things because it had made the tree look beautiful. She was walking around when she bumped into someone and was pushed backward. Before she could fall strong hands pulled her up and when she looked up it was Kurama.
Kurama had not noticed the kimono Yukiko was wearing until now. It was in an emerald shade and the design on the hem made him remember his Youko life. He remembered meeting a girl just like Yukiko but he ignored the thought and looked at her even more, finally noticing the comb on her hair and the flowers that was on top of it.
"Hi."
"uhm... Hi."
"What are you doing here?"
"I was following the green lights. I didn't mean to bump into you."
"Don't worry about it." He looked up and pointed something to Yukiko.
"See those lights? Watch them, when the last drums ring you'll see something wonderful."
Yukiko looked up and watched the lights. The drums erupted in the distance and she watched intently at the lights. When the last drum sounded everything became dark and then all of a sudden the lights slowly twinkles one by one, alternate from the other and it had seemed that the tree was glowing.
"This is wonderful."
"I agree..."
Yukiko turned to Kurama only to see that he was looking at her. That was the only time she saw that Kurama was wearing a yukata with a deep shade of green with bamboo shoots as design.
"Fujimiya san you look great tonight. Especially in your kimono."
"Th-thank you."
She averted her eyes and tried to hide her blush but Kurama had pulled her face to him and they looked at each other's eyes. Kurama leaned to kiss her and she slowly closed her eyes when the voices of the four guys rang to the night air. Kurama looked towards the fading lights of the festival and smiled to Yukiko.
"They're looking for you. Tell no one of what you saw tonight. It was my secret but I don't mind sharing it with you."
"I won't and thank you for sharing it."
Kurama smiled towards her and She smiled towards him. She leaned and kissed him on the cheek before running to the direction of the voices. Kurama followed her through sight as she ran towards the fading lights and the voices of the four guys. He smiled to himself.
"Yuko..."