Sins of a Goddess
Okay before I confuse anyone who's going to read this and think, huh? Did I miss something or did everyone went back in time? And now the first chapter is really the second chapter and the second chapter is really the first chapter, AAAAAHHHHH I must be in some sort of time warp!!!!!
No you see the format of the story goes like this, one chapter talks about the present while the next talks about the past and so on and so forth until the story is over, got it? Well if you don't just read and maybe it won't be so confusing
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2 Years Ago: The start of the Odd Couple
It has been at least a week already after the tragedy, Belldandy taking the place of Peorth has destroyed whatever that was threatening the earth. Unfortunately the cost was a high one, in doing so Belldandy has disappeared presumed dead. All of Heaven mourns this loss but sadly they have to continue life as if it never happened. However today is going to be the start of something wonderful.
Skuld: so how is he doing, Urd?
Urd: not so well, he doesn't want to see or speak to anyone all he does is drink booze and stare out the window all day, I've seen the look in his eyes he's dead inside, all we can do is pray that he'll snap out of it
Skuld: well, this is all his fault!!!!
Urd: Skuld!!! You don't mean that and you know it
Skuld: yes I do!!!! It was because of him, Belldandy chose to sacrifice herself!!!! She wouldn't have done that if it weren't for him!!!!
Urd: SKULD!!! You know Belldandy, even if she had not met him...she would have still done it, Belldandy loves the earth and would do anything to see no harm come to it, Keiichi was just an even bigger incentive to protect it even more
Skuld: you're right...it's just that sniff...I miss Belldandy
Skuld began to break out in tears despite her fighting it and Urd couldn't help but give her a hug
Urd: there there, I miss her too...we shouldn't be sad for long Belldandy wouldn't have wanted us to
Peorth then walked by the goddess
Peorth: Skuld, Urd how goes the diagnostics?
Skuld:...
Saying nothing, Skuld left in a huff
Peorth: let me guess, she's still mad with me
Urd: she did blame you for letting Belldandy do what she did
Peorth: and she's right, it was my fault, I could have...
Urd: enough! I'm tired of hearing whom should blame whom, Skuld will get over it, she knows in her heart that its no one's fault
Peorth: it's more then just that Urd, it's what she told me before she left, Urd I've been thinking these past few days
Urd: about what?
Peorth continued as if she didn't hear Urd
Peorth: and I've decided to do it
Peorth then got up and left
Urd: do what?
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Later at another gathering of the gods
Skuld: so what's this all about?
Urd: who knows? All I can gather is Peorth has something to say
Skuld:...
Urd: Skuld, I'll never get you
The Almighty broke the silence as he spoke
Almighty: you may all be wondering why you have been gathered here, well Head Administrator of Yggdrasil, Peorth has something she wishes to address
Peorth turned to everyone and kneeled before everyone
Peorth: thank you all for coming, as you know what has happened these past few days, it has been hard for everyone but we must continue to live, I have chosen to fulfil a promise to a friend but this promise prevents me from doing my duties therefore I Peorth of the Roses hereby resign as Head of Yggdrasil
There was much talking among the gods, was Peorth serious?
Skuld: WHAT??!! So she's just giving up just like that?
Urd: don't feel sorry for her Skuld, feel sorry for the sucker that she has chosen to succeed her
Almighty: I see, have you chosen a successor Peorth?
Peorth: yes I have, I have chosen Urd
All the gods/ess: WHAT??!!!
Urd: HUH?!!!
Skuld: so how does this feel, sucker?
Urd: shut up kid, Peorth are you sure? Me?
Peorth: and why not you?
Random God: She's only a Goddess second Class, she is not qualified for this important role
Urd: Ggggggggggrrrrrrrrr
Peorth: please I have already thought this through and will not change my mind
Urd: Peorth, I don't know what to say
Peorth: say you'll take the job and that you're honoured
Urd: I don't know, I would have to be giving up a lot of independence to this
Almighty: I say it's a wonderful idea, Urd if you can do this job I see your promotion to Goddess First Class at hand
Peorth leaned over and whispered to Urd
Peorth: and don't worry about free time, there are a lot of people there who will cover for you, all you need to do is ask
Urd: if that's the case, then I'll do it!!!!
Almighty: then it's settled, Peorth are you ready?
Peorth: I am Almighty, I've never been more ready in my entire life
Almighty: however there is one obstacle you must overcome
Peorth: and that is?
Almighty: you cannot stay with the mortal for a long time, the only thing that will allow you to stay with him forever is a contract and the only way to do that is if he wishes for your company, therefore I rule you have three days to convince him that he wants you at his side just like Belldandy and during that time you cannot tell him your true intentions, if you succeed than you can stay on earth to do whatever he pleases, however if he does not want you, you are to report back to Heaven and you'll never see him again, do you understand Peorth?
Peorth: I do Almighty
Almighty: then I will pray for your success
Peorth: thank you Almighty
Peorth then turned and left, all the other gods started heading back to their work, Skuld was still a little sceptical.
Skuld: Peorth, you better not try anything to hurt Keiichi
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Peorth wasted no time to get to earth, she teleported in through the camera and couldn't help but winced her nose the place stank.
Peorth: gross, Keiichi? Hello?
Getting no response, Peorth searced the temple a bit and found Keiichi sitting in his room holding a half emptied bottle of sake, staring out the window periodically taking a sip. His clothes were a mess and his eyes looked red from the lack of sleep and most likely crying but still he sat there as if he hadn't heard Peorth.
Peorth: hello Keiichi, it is I Peorth
Keiichi:...
Peorth: Keiichi?
Keiichi:...
Peorth: I said I was here
Keiichi:...
Peorth: KEIICHI!!!!!!
Keiichi:...
Peorth:...
Keiichi:...
Peorth:...
Keiichi:...
Peorth:...
Keiichi then got up and turned to face Peorth
Peorth: finally you have noticed moi
Keiichi: no I'm out of booze, I was going to go get more
Peorth slapped her forehead, this was going to be a lot harder then it looked
Peorth: well I'm not going to let you get any until you at least talk to me
Keiichi: sigh...fine, what do you want Peorth?
Peorth was taken back by Keiichi's new cold attitude by still persisted
Peorth: I have come to heaven to...
Keiichi: oh and let me guess erase my memories right? Take the very last pleasant thing out of my life Heaven makes me sick
Peorth: no to keep you company
Keiichi: well I don't need you I don't need anyone
Peorth: listen Keiichi I can't stay long
Keiichi: so why don't you just go?
Peorth: and for the next three days I'm going to be your roommate whether you like it or not
Keiichi: fine, just as long as you're quiet
Keiichi walked past her and headed for the kitchen, Peorth's eyes felt like watering what had happened to the kind sweet Keiichi that everyone loved?
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Day 1
Peorth followed Keiichi to the kitchen, who was helping himself to another bottle of sake, he took a quick swig and staggered back, Peorth stopped him.
Peorth: please Keiichi, the world and Heavens not out to get you, you know that
Keiichi: then why did they take her from me?
Peorth: excuse me?
Keiichi: don't act like you don't know, Belldandy she's never coming back is she?
Peorth: I know, that's why I'm here to help ease your pain
Keiichi: well I will live with this pain thank you very much
Peorth: but why?
Keiichi: because I doomed her fate...oh why am I even talking to you??!!
Peorth: because you know that maybe if you shared your feeling maybe you'll feel better?
Keiichi: the one person I wanted to share my feelings is gone, never coming back!!!!
Peorth: and are you just going to give up on life like that??!!!
Keiichi:...
Keiichi seemed to hit his quiet mode again and staggered back to his room, Peorth sighed how could she help him with his pain if he didn't want to share it? A few hours later, Peorth tried futilely to get Keiichi to even acknowledge her but to no avail, the new Keiichi only seemed to care about drinking, it wasn't long though he passed out and was fast asleep, it seemed that even Keiichi's heavy drinking he still couldn't hold his liquor that well. Peorth brought him to his room and tucked him in and later she too fell asleep (well goddess still need rest don't they?). Later after she had woken up, it was getting pretty late...
Peorth: sigh the first day is almost over and the only thing he seems he wants to do is drink more then Urd does
Peorth contemplated over this, maybe it would be better if she just left him alone like he said but no she was compelled to stay she wasn't going to leave Keiichi in his time of need. She decided to go check on him, she entered his room and noticed that he was gone he had obviously woken up before her and had left, after a quick scan revealed he was no longer in the temple. Peorth sighed again where had he gone?
Peorth: oh powers of mine, please help me locate the wayward mortal...
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Keiichi sat down at the bar stools, he had been going to this particular bar lately, the one were Tamiya and Otaki had made an ass of themselves at the karaoke machine, Keiichi would have laughed at the memories if he wasn't feeling so depressed. He would always go here when he was out of sake and he was at least sober enough to drive, the alcohol here was very strong and it usually resulted in terrible hangovers but that was how Keiichi wanted it, anything to help forget the pain.
Bartender: what will it be?
Keiichi: anything, just as long as its really hard
Bartender: you sure? You look terrible
Keiichi: just do it
Keiichi maintained his calm even as an alcoholic he maintained a certain politeness about him, the barkeep just shrugged, poured the drink and let Keiichi enter his own private stage of hell.
Keiichi: why? Why did it have to be her, my sweet precious Belldandy? Was it truly not meant to be?
All Keiichi could do the week of Belldandy's disappearance was remember, remember all the good times and the bad that he had with her and forcing to accept that he couldn't have those moments anymore. He had never felt so alone, sure people came to see him and were shocked that Belldandy had died in a terrible accident (no doubt there was some divine mind altering there), they gave him their sympathy and mourned at their own personal loss of her, a funeral was even held to pay respects, what had hurt Keiichi so much was the fact he didn't even know if she was dead or not, she wasn't coming back was all he knew. The heavy drinking didn't happen until a few days ago, the day Keiichi just stopped caring, life just held no meaning anymore, Belldandy, his true meaning, the woman that he had fallen in love, the woman that he wanted to be his soul-mate had been taken away from him and no matter how hard he tried Keiichi couldn't shake the feeling it had been his fault.
???: so this is where Morisato the loser hangs out lately
Keiichi ignored the voice he knew who it was. It was Toshiyuki Aoshima, a regular playboy who had used every dirty trick to try and steal Belldandy from him all of which failed at every turn. Since he wasn't used to being turn down by a woman it eventually became an obsession for him but now he was back to his old ways, clubbing at bars trying to pick up another innocent unsuspecting girl for another one nightstand. Keiichi wasn't surprised; Belldandy after all was only a trophy to Aoshima, it made Keiichi sick that such a human being could exist.
Aoshima: is this the response I get from you? After all we were rivals for the affection for the same woman
Keiichi: rivals nothing, she saw you for the scumbag that you were at day one
Aoshima: and you are the better gentleman? You did leave Belldandy all alone, it is your fault that she's gone, if you had been there for her she might have that tragic accident
Keiichi clenched his teeth and balled his fist he was really pushing it.
Aoshima: now if she was my girl she would have been safe in my arms...oh well, there will be other women, I will admit Belldandy was one of a kind but at the very least she didn't end up with a lowly pond scum loser like you
Keiichi: just leave me alone
Aoshima: you claimed you loved her and yet you didn't make a move on her, Keiichi Keiichi, don't you know the true purpose of a woman?
That did it, Keiichi could take no more doing something that Keiichi would not resort to do he lashed out and swung a fist at Aoshima, unfortunately is his drunken rage it was easily avoided, Keiichi felt Aoshima's fist ram into his stomach, Keiichi was stunned in pain.
Aoshima: once a loser, always a loser eh Keiichi?
Peorth: now that's enough!!!!!
Peorth seeing everything walked over to Keiichi with a look of genuine concern on her face.
Peorth: Keiichi...are you okay?
Keiichi: Peorth!!! I told you to leave me alone!!!!
Peorth: yeah and you are so fine on your own, going to bars, starting a fight...Keiichi can you take one moment and look at what you have become?
Aoshima: well who might you be? Peorth? That is a very unique name, are you another one of Keiichi's beautiful foreign friends? Heh heh he has more of them then he does cherry blossoms on sakura trees, why don't you leave this loser and go out with me and...
Peorth: listen pal, if you don't want to get sent flying across the room I suggest you turn around and walk away RIGHT NOW!!!!
Aoshima could hear it in her voice, she certainly was no Belldandy and she sounded like she could follow through on her threat at any moment, he decided to meekly step aside.
Keiichi: Peorth, why do you follow me?
Peorth: Keiichi, I'm trying to look after you
Keiichi: well I didn't ask for it
Keiichi broke away from Peorth and ran for the exit, Peorth tried to follow but was stopped by a hand on her shoulder.
Aoshima: are you sure you don't want to? You seem like the lady that would...
Peorth sighed, people like him just never got the message, and needless to say he didn't have a pleasant flight.
Peorth: sometimes they make it seem too easy
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Keiichi ran he didn't care where just as long as he got somewhere. Why didn't Peorth get the message? He wanted to be alone. It wasn't like he had anything against Peorth, she was still a good friend and Keiichi respected her for that it just that the pain Keiichi was going through was something that he had to fight alone and he was losing, he knew it in his heart that was why he couldn't have Peorth involved, it would hurt her too. The pain was too much why was he even still here? Keiichi stopped running, yes why was he still here? There just wasn't anything for him on earth maybe what he was looking for was in heaven, Keiichi had realized he was standing on a bridge (a very familiar bridge) he looked down at the water and rocks below and realized what had to be done. He climbed up the ledge all prepared to take his final journey.
Keiichi: Belldandy I will be with you very soon
Peorth: KEIICHI!!!!
Keiichi grimaced it was Peorth again, but he knew she was only doing her job no Keiichi just had no place in his heart to hate her not after what he is going to do.
Keiichi: I'm sorry Peorth this is the only way
And with that Keiichi jumped...
Peorth: NO! Oh powers within...oh just screw the words, JUST SAVE KEIICHI!!!!
Peorth's powers did as she commanded and Keiichi's decent was stopped by a heavenly blue light, it slowly lifted him up in the air and placed him by her feet more or less safe and sound. However she was not met by gratitude.
Keiichi: WHY???!!! First you follow me around and now you even deny the right to end my own life, why Peorth? Why do you let me suffer so, this is the only way I can be with her again
Peorth response was slapping Keiichi across his face; surprised Keiichi took a step backwards covering the red colored area of his face.
Peorth: you selfish jerk, do you really see your life so pathetically, Keiichi? You seem to ask a lot of questions so I'm going to ask one, why do you think you can't live anymore? Did Belldandy really try to teach you that if you lose sight of something you have to end it all? If so then I'm sorry for you...you just don't seem to realize that other people do care about you Keiichi, they all love you and they will all be sad if you died, do you really want to leave earth with that on your conscience? Oh go ahead if you want to jump just do it, I just don't care anymore...you just don't seem to care yourself that's what hurts me the most
Keiichi: tears? Peorth are you crying?
Peorth: you always gave me hope Keiichi about your race, no matter what happened you always made it through okay, you had a certain something that made you special and you always made me so happy every time I saw you, it's just seeing you like this...it's just too much, a Keiichi that has lost all hope is just like a god who has turned his back on humanity
Suddenly Keiichi felt like the biggest jerk in the world, all throughout this hellish week people had come to cheer him up to make him feel better and all Keiichi could do was wallow in his own self pity, sitting alone blaming himself as if it would ease his pain and now that Peorth had come to take care of him, Keiichi shunned all her help acting like a total ass when all she wanted to do was to make him feel better. Keiichi reached out and placed his hand on her shoulder surprising her a bit, Keiichi tried to force a smile despite his sadness.
Keiichi: Peorth please don't cry, I'm sorry you are right, all this time the only thing I could do was blame myself for Belldandy's disappearance despite what Belldandy had tried to teach me about life, I guess that without her I'm just lost
Peorth: Keiichi, the pain you feel, you don't have to face it alone please share your pain and we'll face it but I can't do a thing if you don't open up
Keiichi: it's just hard; I don't want to have you hurt by it too
Peorth tried to hide a blush, now he was sounding like the old Keiichi.
Peorth: Keiichi I'm prepared to face any pain you may have, in fact I feel it's also my fault that Belldandy's gone
Keiichi: why?
Peorth: Keiichi it should have been me who should have gotten sacrificed, not her
Keiichi: yeah it sounds like something she would do, Peorth can I really feel better about myself again?
Peorth: I can't answer that one Keiichi only you can free yourself of your pain, I will tell you one thing though, do what Belldandy would have wanted you to do
Keiichi: what?
Peorth: just live, live your life to its fullest and find your reason to smile, to laugh, to basically feel alive again. Keiichi, there is no such thing as fate, the Almighty created humans with the intention of shaping their own futures, Keiichi you and only you can shape your future and only your decisions can influence whether or not something bad will happen, Keiichi never be afraid and things will be fine
Keiichi:...ha ha ha
Suddenly Keiichi broke out in a type of sad laughter
Peorth: Keiichi?
Keiichi: that's exactly what Belldandy told me
Peorth smiled she had a feeling Keiichi was going to be fine
Peorth: Keiichi I feel you should get your rest it is getting late
Keiichi: but what about my...
Peorth: already taken care of, I took your motorcycle home
Keiichi: Peorth, thank you I just can't think of anything else to say but thank you
Peorth: no Keiichi, I should be thanking you
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Day 2
Keiichi woke up with a killer hangover but Keiichi didn't mind for that was going to be his last one. He decided to live again and the first step was to give up drinking. He got up, got dressed and went to the kitchen to get something to eat.
Peorth: good morning Keiichi
Keiichi: huh?
Peorth: made you breakfast
Keiichi looked at the food at the table it looked like there was enough to feed a small army, all created by Peorth's magic no doubt.
Keiichi: uuumm thanks but I think I'll skip breakfast
Peorth: oh no you shouldn't breakfast is one of the most important meals of the day and besides all this food just wants to be eaten by you
Keiichi remembered the time she kinda force fed him and shuddered and decided against skipping.
Keiichi: okay but I don't think I can finish though
Peorth: eat what you can
Keiichi sat down and did so between bites he spoke up.
Keiichi: Peorth I was thinking last night, how much I was a jerk yesterday and because of that I wasted one of your days so I want to make it up to you, today we'll do whatever you want
Peorth face literally lit up
Peorth: really?!!
Keiichi: yes, anything you want today as my way of saying I'm sorry
Peorth: Keiichi Morisato are you asking moi out?
Keiichi: well since you put it that way, I errrr...uuuummm I guess I am
Peorth: than I guess I have no choice but to humbly accept your proposal mon cherie, wait right here I have a few things I would like to plan out
Almost as fast as lightning she was out of the room, Keiichi sighed what had he gotten himself into? But still seeing her smile feels almost worth it.
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Boy when Peorth said she was going to plan things out she really meant it Keiichi thought. In just a few minutes she had an entire schedule planned out for the day, a movie, a trip to the Aquarium, lunch, the Oceanside Park and finally a secret surprise in the evening. Keiichi couldn't put his finger on it but this sounded way too familiar somehow.
Voice: um excuse me sir?
Keiichi: huh?
Ticket Clerk: which movie would you like to see?
Keiichi was snapped from his daydream remembering he was standing in the ticket line for the movie.
Keiichi: two to Romance Story
After receiving their tickets and getting snacks (Keiichi almost couldn't believe how many snacks Peorth wanted, which really took a toll on his wallet), they sat down for the movie or rather waiting until the movie began.
Keiichi: previews who could possibly like the previews?
Peorth: oooohh I'd like to see that one, oh that movie has that dreamy actor...oh so does that one
Keiichi: I had to ask
Rather then risk falling asleep before the movie began Keiichi decided to start a conversation
Keiichi: so, here we are on this formal date (smooth Keiichi, real smooth)
Peorth: yes just you and me
Keiichi: ever been on a date before? (Gawd Keiichi can you sound any LESS lame?)
Peorth: not including that "group" one we had, yes I did...I was younger, and ironically it was also to a mortal
Keiichi: a mortal?
Peorth: yes we were really close or at least that's what I thought
Keiichi: really? What happened?
Peorth: do you mind if I don't talk about it anymore? It was in the past and I just don't feel like talking about what happened
Keiichi knew he had hit a nerve and didn't press on as the movie began. It was one of those typical sappy romances that Keiichi just couldn't get into but he noticed Peorth was practically absorbed into it, crying at the sad parts, laughing at the happy ones and cheering when the two lovers finally got together. Keiichi had to admit he had never known anyone who got so emotionally involved with a movie before, it was fascinating to see to say the least. Time seemed to fly by after movie and Keiichi found himself at the park after the trip to the aquarium. It was a rather amusing experience; he noticed one of the rare colorful angelfish had similar eyes to Peorth and when he told her that all she did was flashed him one of her goofy smiles. Keiichi could never understand what women were thinking and would never figure them out. Now he was eating lunch or what was supposed to be lunch again it was another mountain of food that Keiichi knew would go to his thighs if he were concern of petty vanity.
Keiichi: uuummm, this sure looks good
Peorth: yes now eat and don't worry there's plenty more where that came from
Keiichi: (I don't think I can even finish half of this) maybe you would like to share?
Peorth: nonsense this delectable feast is for my Lord Keiichi and him alone
Keiichi: okay
Peorth: you don't like it, do you?
Keiichi: no no no it's nothing like that it's just that you kinda make too much
Peorth: oh I'll just....
Keiichi: no you don't have to, I'm not saying I'm not grateful but can I ask you do you always create food with magic?
Peorth: yeah oh is my quality not good enough?
Keiichi: no it's great in fact it's too good, I believe that things like food should not be made by magic and by your own two hands, I know how hard it is to cook heck I still can't cook right myself but I know that making something for someone you care for the hard way just shows how much you care about them, for once Peorth can I taste something you made not out of magic?
Peorth: I wish I could but...
Keiichi: but what? You can tell me I'm your friend
Peorth: (and that's all we'll ever be, I'm afraid) I can't cook
Keiichi: you *snicker*
Peorth: don't laugh it's not funny
Keiichi :Sorry it's just HA HA HA HA HA!!!!!
Peorth: you laughed!!!!!
Keiichi: you're right I just perceived you as the type of person who could do anything she wanted
Peorth: I guess we all have our flaws, mine is that I just can't cook, never found the time I guess, Keiichi you are the only one to ask me this
Keiichi: if I have offended you, I'm sorry
Peorth: don't be, I'm just afraid that I'll offend you after you taste what I can actually do
Keiichi: I don't mind, just as long as you put your heart into it I'll eat it
Peorth: promise?
Keiichi: promise
Peorth: every last bite?
Keiichi: every last bite
Peorth: then I'll do it next time and I'll be looking forward to it
Keiichi: now I just can't let all this good food go to waste, so I'll start
Peorth: Keiichi, you still up for sharing? Maybe it will help you know motivate me
Keiichi: help yourself
Later after the visit to the Oceanside park
Keiichi: I still didn't think it was funny Peorth
Peorth: come on lighten up, the look on your face was priceless
Keiichi: you know I can't swim so summoning that mini tidal wave was something I would be afraid of
Peorth: you know that I wouldn't do anything to hurt you but still you had fun didn't you?
Keiichi: I guess it was, it was more fun I had for some time now
Peorth: then I did my job
Keiichi: say what was that surprise you promised you'd have?
Peorth: I suppose now would be a good time to show you, take my hand and I'll show you
Keiichi did so and was engulfed by a soft blue light that felt so relaxing as Peorth teleported them to the place of her choice, Keiichi opened his eyes after a few minutes and almost felt his jaw hit the floor
Keiichi: you GOT to be kidding me
Because he and Peorth were standing outside one of Japan's infamous love hotels
Keiichi: please tell me you're kidding
Peorth then broke out in a giddy fit of laughter as she looked at Keiichi's reaction
Peorth: I'm joking I'm joking...I don't want to ruin such a perfect day by doing something like that, besides I don't want to force you into something you wouldn't want to do
Keiichi: phew
Peorth: but still, there is something that I want Keiichi to end this perfect date
Keiichi: what?
Peorth: I want one kiss to seal the deal, kiss me the way you kiss Belldandy, I want to feel the same joy that she feels during a day like this
Keiichi: are you sure? I'm a lousy kisser
Peorth: just as long as you put your heart into it, I don't mind
Keiichi: you have a way with words you know?
Peorth: just shut up and kiss me
Keiichi nodded and the two leaned forward, it started off as a small kiss but it grew into something more passionate as Keiichi did put his heart into it not understanding what he was feeling at the moment why did he felt this way? Meanwhile with Peorth she never felt anything so joyous before, she almost considered adding tongue but decided against it realizing it would most likely scare him off, after they broke off the kiss the two were breathless.
Peorth: wow, now I understand
Keiichi: understand what?
Peorth: maybe someday you would know what I mean
Peorth said no more as this day came to a close, Keiichi was still in a small disarray what was he feeling? Why did Peorth make him feel this way? Keiichi hoped sleeping over it would result in some answers.
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Day 3
Keiichi woke up incredibly refreshed this time, not having a hangover really made a difference. Like the creature of habit that he was, he got up, got dressed and headed for the kitchen for something to eat but was greeted by something really different. The kitchen was filled with smoke as if a warzone had taken place, Peorth looking like she had been through hell and back placed a plate on the table with well something on it.
Peorth: well I cough cough took your advice about not using magic so I hope you like it
Keiichi: an interesting way to cook eggs
Peorth: it's supposed to be rice
Keiichi: oh probably still good all the same
Keiichi sat down and took a bite
Peorth: well?
Keiichi: an interesting flavor, a very interesting blend never tasted anything quite like this before
Peorth: it's awful isn't it????!!!! AAARRRGGGHH I can seem to do this right!!!!
Keiichi: no no no it's not bad, in fact I think I'll eat all of it right now (don't want to hurt her feelings especially since I was the one who put her up to it)
And Keiichi did and with every bite it seemed a weight seemed to be lifted from Peorth's shoulders and finally he had eaten it all.
Keiichi: well I enjoyed that thank you
Peorth: (no matter what you are always the true gentleman) I'll do better next...oh
Keiichi: what? Oh there won't be a next time would there?
Peorth shook her head no
Keiichi: today's your last day, you have to go home huh? Isn't there anything you can do to stay longer?
Peorth: if the Almighty doesn't want it, then no I must follow my duty...Keiichi there's nothing else I'd rather want then to stay, that time we spent together yesterday wasn't bad I actually had fun
Keiichi: so did I, if it weren't for you I'd probably have been a no-good drunk or dead, Peorth you taught me that there is always something out there worth living for
Peorth: then I'm happy, just as long as you know what to do
Keiichi: (come on Keiichi say something to her) will I ever see you again?
Peorth: most likely no, I'm sorry
Keiichi: (is that all you can tell her??!! What can I say to her? How about goodbye? How about I care about you? Anything Keiichi don't give her this silence, she doesn't deserve it) When will you have to go home?
Peorth: midnight
Keiichi: I see
Peorth: so whatever plans you have today, I will follow them
Keiichi: I'd like to stay in if you don't mind
Peorth: as you wish, what would you like to do?
Keiichi: how about we just talk? I realize there so much I don't know about you?
Peorth: okay that sounds fun
Keiichi: (okay it has to be a good one) how old are you? (THAT'S THE BEST YOU CAN THINK UP??!!!)
Peorth just blushed
Peorth: Keiichi it's rude to ask a lady of her age, how about I just say around your age
Keiichi: I guess I can accept that, (okay this question has to be a better one) what's your bra size?
SLAP
Keiichi: ow I was only kidding (smooth one, Keiichi, that one kinda blurted out I suppose)
Peorth: you didn't sound like you were!!!!
Keiichi: all right, I just have one more question tell me more about the mortal that you used to be in love with
Peorth: HEY!!! That's unfair
Keiichi: Hey since we're on the topic of comforting one another, I want to comfort you it sounds like you've been keeping it inside for a long time
Peorth: yeah but our problems are nothing alike, he was a jerk and Belldandy was loyal to you until the end, I shouldn't waste your time with my petty problems
Keiichi: a petty problem eh? It sounds like it is hurting you ever since but since you don't want to tell me...
Peorth: I was only 10 or 11 I think when Belldandy came back to Heaven from a trip to Earth
Keiichi: (she's actually telling me??!!)
Peorth: I believe you already know this part of the tale, Keiichi she was forced to erase your memory after breaking one of Heaven's rules but despite all of that she still never forgot you, she always talked about that special little boy that she vowed she would one day see again
Keiichi: (Belldandy said that?)
Peorth: I myself also became fascinated with mortals since then, when I was around 15 or 16 I think I met someone whom I thought was special, I remember seeing him he had recently broken up with his own girlfriend and was about to end his life, feeling it just wasn't worth living anymore, I don't know what convinced me that day but I went to him, revealed who I was and we fell in love or so I thought
Keiichi: what happened?
Peorth: I wasn't convinced that I was really in love with him so I had he and I go through the Gate of Judgement
Keiichi: y-you went through the Gate of Judgement?!
Peorth: yeah and you all too well know of its track record, we were separated as soon as we passed, for a long time I thought it was because of me but the Almighty told me the truth we got separated because of him. He apparently only loved me for being a goddess he didn't care about me at all, I guess the idea of having a divine goddess was something anyone could have wanted, eh? I never saw him again after that
Keiichi: well at least you found out what type of person he was before he really got a chance to hurt you, I'd like to give him a punch to the nose if I ever saw him
Peorth: you're too kind and I know you won't, that's one of the reasons why I like you...ha ha HA HA
Keiichi: what's so funny?
Peorth: I actually do feel better, I never realized how just simply talking about it can do to a person
Keiichi: maybe you should listen to your own advice
Peorth: well here's to two lonely hearts
Keiichi: yeah and Peorth?
Peorth: yeah?
Keiichi: I hope you find that special someone
Keiichi turned and left to his room for much need contemplation. He couldn't think of anything else to say to the goddess and he was at the point of exploding so much he wanted to say and he couldn't even say a word at the moment. The hours seemed to fly by minutes and finally at 11:00.
Peorth: Keiichi? Where are you going?
Keiichi: I'm going to go visit Megumi, I just need some time alone
Peorth: well have fun
Keiichi didn't like the tone in Peorth's voice he just couldn't believe that she was leaving. He hurried to his motorcycle before it just got way to painful to stay. Soon he was at Megumi's apartment, after the usual greetings Keiichi was inside.
Megumi: so why are you here this time, Keiichi?
Keiichi: I just like a place to stay for the night if you don't mind
Megumi: no, I don't mind but you have to answer a few questions
Keiichi: what is this? An interrogation?
Megumi: hey I'm just a concerned sister that's all, you sound like you haven't gotten over Belldandy yet
Keiichi: it's not that
Megumi: another woman?
Keiichi: yeah how did you know?
Megumi: I was only kidding, but I guess the rumors of you hanging out with another woman are true
Keiichi: rumors? Who told you?
Megumi: let's just say a little bird told me, so who is it? Urd?
Keiichi: no
Megumi: Sora?
Keiichi: no
Megumi: Chihiro?
Keiichi: no
Megumi: don't tell me it's Skuld?
Keiichi: ARE YOU SICK???!!!! She's way too young no it's Peorth
Megumi: Peorth? Hhhhhmmmm oh you mean that strange exotic girl? Yeah funny I remember having a strange dream about Peorth, I dreamt that I fell in love with you not in a sisterly way and so did Urd and Skuld too...
Keiichi: ah-hem? The point of this?
Megumi: oh sorry, so what's the situation between you two?
Keiichi: well she came all the way from her homeland to basically look after me to see how I was coping without Belldandy she did everything in her power to make me feel better, unfortunately her job only allowed her three days to stay and she's going back at midnight and I have a feeling that after tonight I'll never see her again
Megumi: you've fallen in love with her haven't you?
Keiichi: what makes you say that?
Megumi: you have that tone in your voice, a sense of longing...
Keiichi: I don't know what I feel about her, it just seems so strange, I really like her and all but I feel that I would be unfaithful to Belldandy
Megumi: Keiichi, I think out of all people who would want you to love again, it would be Belldandy, knowing the type of person she was, she lived to make you happy and that made her happy. I have a feeling that she wants this to happen and even though she's no longer with us, I bet she's joyful that her Keiichi is willing to continue to find his happiness
Keiichi: I don't know if I can feel about another woman like I did Belldandy even if it's someone like Peorth
Megumi: are you really sure about that Keiichi?
Keiichi: all right, I'm in love with her there I said it
Megumi: so why aren't you seeing her off?
Keiichi: I can't tell her goodbye, it's just so painful. What can I say to her? Goodbye it's been nice knowing you? Then continue life as if nothing ever happened?
Megumi: OH?!!! I SEE!!! And you think by not facing her you don't have to feel bad??!! Well I'm sorry to say Keiichi it doesn't work that way, by not telling her at least how you feel, it will get worse, you will have a sense of guilt that will eat you up inside, you'll regret that you never took the chance to tell her, it will drive you insane to the point of your own self destruction of course that's just my opinion
Keiichi:....Megumi, what time is it?
Megumi: 11:30
Keiichi: if I hurry I think I can make it
Megumi: way to go Keiichi
Keiichi was out like a flash and was gone into the darkness of the night, Megumi smiled as she watched him leave.
Megumi: I have a feeling Keiichi is going to be okay...wait a minute, wasn't the airport the other direction?
________________________________________________________________________
The clock struck midnight and as the chimes emitted throughout the temple, Peorth sadly stepped out to the courtyard.
Peorth: I guess this is it, Keiichi I had fun but I wish you could have wished me to stay, I would have done that in a heartbeat
A pillar of light descended from the heavens and touched Peorth, it looked like she wouldn't get to see Keiichi again. However....
Keiichi: PEORTH!!!!
Peorth: Keiichi?
Keiichi: no I can't be too late, not now
Peorth: I'm sorry Keiichi, it is time I can't avoid this, this is fate I'm afraid
Keiichi: no wasn't it Belldandy and you who told me that there was no such thing as fate? I have to shape my own future and I want you to be a part of it
Keiichi approached the pillar of light he was no stranger to it as it was identical to the one that Belldandy had to use in that recall incident. The painful feelings as he stepped closer to it hadn't changed at all apparently, Keiichi struggled to get closer.
Peorth: Keiichi!! Are you crazy??!! You'll get yourself killed
Keiichi: I will risk it all Peorth you are worth it
Peorth: Keiichi, you know when you told me that I will find that special someone? I think I'm looking at him right now
Keiichi: we can talk about this later Peorth
Of course just like last time Keiichi just couldn't step close enough and was knocked back.
Keiichi: dammit I just wish there was some way to have you stay with me
Peorth's hope was restored when she heard this and she smiled
Peorth: care to repeat that Keiichi?
Keiichi: eh? I said dammit...
Peorth: NO!!! The other part
Keiichi: I just wish there was some way to have you stay with me?
Peorth: I only have one thing to say to that Keiichi
Keiichi: what?
Peorth: wish granted
A beam was emitted from Peorth's forehead forcing Keiichi to shield his eyes from the intense light, well at least there wasn't an explosion this time. After the light was over Peorth was standing over him with a joyful look on her face.
Peorth: are you just going to lie down there all day?
Keiichi: Peorth? But how?
Peorth: sorry to have left you in the dark Keiichi, I'll explain everything, you know when Belldandy stayed with you, a contract was required it was something was something way too important to be made alone, the same thing here too I was not planning on forcing myself into your life, so the only way I could stay is if you wanted me to stay and to do that...
Keiichi: I would have needed a contract with you, I can't believe that I never thought about that, I just can't believe it I came so close to losing you a few minutes ago and now here you are standing right in front of me
Peorth: if you don't mind I'd prefer to stand by your side
Keiichi: ha ha ha, Peorth I have so many things I want to tell you
Peorth: then tell me
Keiichi: Peorth, I think I love you
Peorth: and I love you too, Keiichi...ha ha sniff
Keiichi: Peorth? Are you crying? Again?
Peorth: don't worry I'm not sad, how can I be? I had these feelings for you for a long time and now this, this is like a fairy tale come true
Keiichi: I guess it does, so what do you to do now?
Peorth: anything you want, you're stuck with me remember?
Keiichi: Peorth, I wouldn't have asked for anything else
Keiichi and Peorth moved closer and pulled together for a sweet and passionate kiss (tongue included of course that's another story altogether)
Strange how things work out doesn't it? That was how Peorth and I got together. I may not know what the future may bring but at least I don't have to go about it alone. I've found my laugh, my smile and the feeling of being alive again.
________________________________________________________________________
Okay that was a little longer then I'd thought it be, -_-;; oh well at least this chapters done. Hoped you liked it
The next chapter is going to be one about the present/future (following the format of the story), Keiichi and Peorth may already be happily married but what happens when a mysterious girl shakes everything up? Who is she? Why does Keiichi feel so drawn to her that it even makes Peorth jealous? (Of course that doesn't seem to be a hard thing to do)
Find out in Chapter 3: The Mysterious Verthandi...
Okay before I confuse anyone who's going to read this and think, huh? Did I miss something or did everyone went back in time? And now the first chapter is really the second chapter and the second chapter is really the first chapter, AAAAAHHHHH I must be in some sort of time warp!!!!!
No you see the format of the story goes like this, one chapter talks about the present while the next talks about the past and so on and so forth until the story is over, got it? Well if you don't just read and maybe it won't be so confusing
________________________________________________________________________
2 Years Ago: The start of the Odd Couple
It has been at least a week already after the tragedy, Belldandy taking the place of Peorth has destroyed whatever that was threatening the earth. Unfortunately the cost was a high one, in doing so Belldandy has disappeared presumed dead. All of Heaven mourns this loss but sadly they have to continue life as if it never happened. However today is going to be the start of something wonderful.
Skuld: so how is he doing, Urd?
Urd: not so well, he doesn't want to see or speak to anyone all he does is drink booze and stare out the window all day, I've seen the look in his eyes he's dead inside, all we can do is pray that he'll snap out of it
Skuld: well, this is all his fault!!!!
Urd: Skuld!!! You don't mean that and you know it
Skuld: yes I do!!!! It was because of him, Belldandy chose to sacrifice herself!!!! She wouldn't have done that if it weren't for him!!!!
Urd: SKULD!!! You know Belldandy, even if she had not met him...she would have still done it, Belldandy loves the earth and would do anything to see no harm come to it, Keiichi was just an even bigger incentive to protect it even more
Skuld: you're right...it's just that sniff...I miss Belldandy
Skuld began to break out in tears despite her fighting it and Urd couldn't help but give her a hug
Urd: there there, I miss her too...we shouldn't be sad for long Belldandy wouldn't have wanted us to
Peorth then walked by the goddess
Peorth: Skuld, Urd how goes the diagnostics?
Skuld:...
Saying nothing, Skuld left in a huff
Peorth: let me guess, she's still mad with me
Urd: she did blame you for letting Belldandy do what she did
Peorth: and she's right, it was my fault, I could have...
Urd: enough! I'm tired of hearing whom should blame whom, Skuld will get over it, she knows in her heart that its no one's fault
Peorth: it's more then just that Urd, it's what she told me before she left, Urd I've been thinking these past few days
Urd: about what?
Peorth continued as if she didn't hear Urd
Peorth: and I've decided to do it
Peorth then got up and left
Urd: do what?
________________________________________________________________________
Later at another gathering of the gods
Skuld: so what's this all about?
Urd: who knows? All I can gather is Peorth has something to say
Skuld:...
Urd: Skuld, I'll never get you
The Almighty broke the silence as he spoke
Almighty: you may all be wondering why you have been gathered here, well Head Administrator of Yggdrasil, Peorth has something she wishes to address
Peorth turned to everyone and kneeled before everyone
Peorth: thank you all for coming, as you know what has happened these past few days, it has been hard for everyone but we must continue to live, I have chosen to fulfil a promise to a friend but this promise prevents me from doing my duties therefore I Peorth of the Roses hereby resign as Head of Yggdrasil
There was much talking among the gods, was Peorth serious?
Skuld: WHAT??!! So she's just giving up just like that?
Urd: don't feel sorry for her Skuld, feel sorry for the sucker that she has chosen to succeed her
Almighty: I see, have you chosen a successor Peorth?
Peorth: yes I have, I have chosen Urd
All the gods/ess: WHAT??!!!
Urd: HUH?!!!
Skuld: so how does this feel, sucker?
Urd: shut up kid, Peorth are you sure? Me?
Peorth: and why not you?
Random God: She's only a Goddess second Class, she is not qualified for this important role
Urd: Ggggggggggrrrrrrrrr
Peorth: please I have already thought this through and will not change my mind
Urd: Peorth, I don't know what to say
Peorth: say you'll take the job and that you're honoured
Urd: I don't know, I would have to be giving up a lot of independence to this
Almighty: I say it's a wonderful idea, Urd if you can do this job I see your promotion to Goddess First Class at hand
Peorth leaned over and whispered to Urd
Peorth: and don't worry about free time, there are a lot of people there who will cover for you, all you need to do is ask
Urd: if that's the case, then I'll do it!!!!
Almighty: then it's settled, Peorth are you ready?
Peorth: I am Almighty, I've never been more ready in my entire life
Almighty: however there is one obstacle you must overcome
Peorth: and that is?
Almighty: you cannot stay with the mortal for a long time, the only thing that will allow you to stay with him forever is a contract and the only way to do that is if he wishes for your company, therefore I rule you have three days to convince him that he wants you at his side just like Belldandy and during that time you cannot tell him your true intentions, if you succeed than you can stay on earth to do whatever he pleases, however if he does not want you, you are to report back to Heaven and you'll never see him again, do you understand Peorth?
Peorth: I do Almighty
Almighty: then I will pray for your success
Peorth: thank you Almighty
Peorth then turned and left, all the other gods started heading back to their work, Skuld was still a little sceptical.
Skuld: Peorth, you better not try anything to hurt Keiichi
________________________________________________________________________
Peorth wasted no time to get to earth, she teleported in through the camera and couldn't help but winced her nose the place stank.
Peorth: gross, Keiichi? Hello?
Getting no response, Peorth searced the temple a bit and found Keiichi sitting in his room holding a half emptied bottle of sake, staring out the window periodically taking a sip. His clothes were a mess and his eyes looked red from the lack of sleep and most likely crying but still he sat there as if he hadn't heard Peorth.
Peorth: hello Keiichi, it is I Peorth
Keiichi:...
Peorth: Keiichi?
Keiichi:...
Peorth: I said I was here
Keiichi:...
Peorth: KEIICHI!!!!!!
Keiichi:...
Peorth:...
Keiichi:...
Peorth:...
Keiichi:...
Peorth:...
Keiichi then got up and turned to face Peorth
Peorth: finally you have noticed moi
Keiichi: no I'm out of booze, I was going to go get more
Peorth slapped her forehead, this was going to be a lot harder then it looked
Peorth: well I'm not going to let you get any until you at least talk to me
Keiichi: sigh...fine, what do you want Peorth?
Peorth was taken back by Keiichi's new cold attitude by still persisted
Peorth: I have come to heaven to...
Keiichi: oh and let me guess erase my memories right? Take the very last pleasant thing out of my life Heaven makes me sick
Peorth: no to keep you company
Keiichi: well I don't need you I don't need anyone
Peorth: listen Keiichi I can't stay long
Keiichi: so why don't you just go?
Peorth: and for the next three days I'm going to be your roommate whether you like it or not
Keiichi: fine, just as long as you're quiet
Keiichi walked past her and headed for the kitchen, Peorth's eyes felt like watering what had happened to the kind sweet Keiichi that everyone loved?
________________________________________________________________________
Day 1
Peorth followed Keiichi to the kitchen, who was helping himself to another bottle of sake, he took a quick swig and staggered back, Peorth stopped him.
Peorth: please Keiichi, the world and Heavens not out to get you, you know that
Keiichi: then why did they take her from me?
Peorth: excuse me?
Keiichi: don't act like you don't know, Belldandy she's never coming back is she?
Peorth: I know, that's why I'm here to help ease your pain
Keiichi: well I will live with this pain thank you very much
Peorth: but why?
Keiichi: because I doomed her fate...oh why am I even talking to you??!!
Peorth: because you know that maybe if you shared your feeling maybe you'll feel better?
Keiichi: the one person I wanted to share my feelings is gone, never coming back!!!!
Peorth: and are you just going to give up on life like that??!!!
Keiichi:...
Keiichi seemed to hit his quiet mode again and staggered back to his room, Peorth sighed how could she help him with his pain if he didn't want to share it? A few hours later, Peorth tried futilely to get Keiichi to even acknowledge her but to no avail, the new Keiichi only seemed to care about drinking, it wasn't long though he passed out and was fast asleep, it seemed that even Keiichi's heavy drinking he still couldn't hold his liquor that well. Peorth brought him to his room and tucked him in and later she too fell asleep (well goddess still need rest don't they?). Later after she had woken up, it was getting pretty late...
Peorth: sigh the first day is almost over and the only thing he seems he wants to do is drink more then Urd does
Peorth contemplated over this, maybe it would be better if she just left him alone like he said but no she was compelled to stay she wasn't going to leave Keiichi in his time of need. She decided to go check on him, she entered his room and noticed that he was gone he had obviously woken up before her and had left, after a quick scan revealed he was no longer in the temple. Peorth sighed again where had he gone?
Peorth: oh powers of mine, please help me locate the wayward mortal...
________________________________________________________________________
Keiichi sat down at the bar stools, he had been going to this particular bar lately, the one were Tamiya and Otaki had made an ass of themselves at the karaoke machine, Keiichi would have laughed at the memories if he wasn't feeling so depressed. He would always go here when he was out of sake and he was at least sober enough to drive, the alcohol here was very strong and it usually resulted in terrible hangovers but that was how Keiichi wanted it, anything to help forget the pain.
Bartender: what will it be?
Keiichi: anything, just as long as its really hard
Bartender: you sure? You look terrible
Keiichi: just do it
Keiichi maintained his calm even as an alcoholic he maintained a certain politeness about him, the barkeep just shrugged, poured the drink and let Keiichi enter his own private stage of hell.
Keiichi: why? Why did it have to be her, my sweet precious Belldandy? Was it truly not meant to be?
All Keiichi could do the week of Belldandy's disappearance was remember, remember all the good times and the bad that he had with her and forcing to accept that he couldn't have those moments anymore. He had never felt so alone, sure people came to see him and were shocked that Belldandy had died in a terrible accident (no doubt there was some divine mind altering there), they gave him their sympathy and mourned at their own personal loss of her, a funeral was even held to pay respects, what had hurt Keiichi so much was the fact he didn't even know if she was dead or not, she wasn't coming back was all he knew. The heavy drinking didn't happen until a few days ago, the day Keiichi just stopped caring, life just held no meaning anymore, Belldandy, his true meaning, the woman that he had fallen in love, the woman that he wanted to be his soul-mate had been taken away from him and no matter how hard he tried Keiichi couldn't shake the feeling it had been his fault.
???: so this is where Morisato the loser hangs out lately
Keiichi ignored the voice he knew who it was. It was Toshiyuki Aoshima, a regular playboy who had used every dirty trick to try and steal Belldandy from him all of which failed at every turn. Since he wasn't used to being turn down by a woman it eventually became an obsession for him but now he was back to his old ways, clubbing at bars trying to pick up another innocent unsuspecting girl for another one nightstand. Keiichi wasn't surprised; Belldandy after all was only a trophy to Aoshima, it made Keiichi sick that such a human being could exist.
Aoshima: is this the response I get from you? After all we were rivals for the affection for the same woman
Keiichi: rivals nothing, she saw you for the scumbag that you were at day one
Aoshima: and you are the better gentleman? You did leave Belldandy all alone, it is your fault that she's gone, if you had been there for her she might have that tragic accident
Keiichi clenched his teeth and balled his fist he was really pushing it.
Aoshima: now if she was my girl she would have been safe in my arms...oh well, there will be other women, I will admit Belldandy was one of a kind but at the very least she didn't end up with a lowly pond scum loser like you
Keiichi: just leave me alone
Aoshima: you claimed you loved her and yet you didn't make a move on her, Keiichi Keiichi, don't you know the true purpose of a woman?
That did it, Keiichi could take no more doing something that Keiichi would not resort to do he lashed out and swung a fist at Aoshima, unfortunately is his drunken rage it was easily avoided, Keiichi felt Aoshima's fist ram into his stomach, Keiichi was stunned in pain.
Aoshima: once a loser, always a loser eh Keiichi?
Peorth: now that's enough!!!!!
Peorth seeing everything walked over to Keiichi with a look of genuine concern on her face.
Peorth: Keiichi...are you okay?
Keiichi: Peorth!!! I told you to leave me alone!!!!
Peorth: yeah and you are so fine on your own, going to bars, starting a fight...Keiichi can you take one moment and look at what you have become?
Aoshima: well who might you be? Peorth? That is a very unique name, are you another one of Keiichi's beautiful foreign friends? Heh heh he has more of them then he does cherry blossoms on sakura trees, why don't you leave this loser and go out with me and...
Peorth: listen pal, if you don't want to get sent flying across the room I suggest you turn around and walk away RIGHT NOW!!!!
Aoshima could hear it in her voice, she certainly was no Belldandy and she sounded like she could follow through on her threat at any moment, he decided to meekly step aside.
Keiichi: Peorth, why do you follow me?
Peorth: Keiichi, I'm trying to look after you
Keiichi: well I didn't ask for it
Keiichi broke away from Peorth and ran for the exit, Peorth tried to follow but was stopped by a hand on her shoulder.
Aoshima: are you sure you don't want to? You seem like the lady that would...
Peorth sighed, people like him just never got the message, and needless to say he didn't have a pleasant flight.
Peorth: sometimes they make it seem too easy
________________________________________________________________________
Keiichi ran he didn't care where just as long as he got somewhere. Why didn't Peorth get the message? He wanted to be alone. It wasn't like he had anything against Peorth, she was still a good friend and Keiichi respected her for that it just that the pain Keiichi was going through was something that he had to fight alone and he was losing, he knew it in his heart that was why he couldn't have Peorth involved, it would hurt her too. The pain was too much why was he even still here? Keiichi stopped running, yes why was he still here? There just wasn't anything for him on earth maybe what he was looking for was in heaven, Keiichi had realized he was standing on a bridge (a very familiar bridge) he looked down at the water and rocks below and realized what had to be done. He climbed up the ledge all prepared to take his final journey.
Keiichi: Belldandy I will be with you very soon
Peorth: KEIICHI!!!!
Keiichi grimaced it was Peorth again, but he knew she was only doing her job no Keiichi just had no place in his heart to hate her not after what he is going to do.
Keiichi: I'm sorry Peorth this is the only way
And with that Keiichi jumped...
Peorth: NO! Oh powers within...oh just screw the words, JUST SAVE KEIICHI!!!!
Peorth's powers did as she commanded and Keiichi's decent was stopped by a heavenly blue light, it slowly lifted him up in the air and placed him by her feet more or less safe and sound. However she was not met by gratitude.
Keiichi: WHY???!!! First you follow me around and now you even deny the right to end my own life, why Peorth? Why do you let me suffer so, this is the only way I can be with her again
Peorth response was slapping Keiichi across his face; surprised Keiichi took a step backwards covering the red colored area of his face.
Peorth: you selfish jerk, do you really see your life so pathetically, Keiichi? You seem to ask a lot of questions so I'm going to ask one, why do you think you can't live anymore? Did Belldandy really try to teach you that if you lose sight of something you have to end it all? If so then I'm sorry for you...you just don't seem to realize that other people do care about you Keiichi, they all love you and they will all be sad if you died, do you really want to leave earth with that on your conscience? Oh go ahead if you want to jump just do it, I just don't care anymore...you just don't seem to care yourself that's what hurts me the most
Keiichi: tears? Peorth are you crying?
Peorth: you always gave me hope Keiichi about your race, no matter what happened you always made it through okay, you had a certain something that made you special and you always made me so happy every time I saw you, it's just seeing you like this...it's just too much, a Keiichi that has lost all hope is just like a god who has turned his back on humanity
Suddenly Keiichi felt like the biggest jerk in the world, all throughout this hellish week people had come to cheer him up to make him feel better and all Keiichi could do was wallow in his own self pity, sitting alone blaming himself as if it would ease his pain and now that Peorth had come to take care of him, Keiichi shunned all her help acting like a total ass when all she wanted to do was to make him feel better. Keiichi reached out and placed his hand on her shoulder surprising her a bit, Keiichi tried to force a smile despite his sadness.
Keiichi: Peorth please don't cry, I'm sorry you are right, all this time the only thing I could do was blame myself for Belldandy's disappearance despite what Belldandy had tried to teach me about life, I guess that without her I'm just lost
Peorth: Keiichi, the pain you feel, you don't have to face it alone please share your pain and we'll face it but I can't do a thing if you don't open up
Keiichi: it's just hard; I don't want to have you hurt by it too
Peorth tried to hide a blush, now he was sounding like the old Keiichi.
Peorth: Keiichi I'm prepared to face any pain you may have, in fact I feel it's also my fault that Belldandy's gone
Keiichi: why?
Peorth: Keiichi it should have been me who should have gotten sacrificed, not her
Keiichi: yeah it sounds like something she would do, Peorth can I really feel better about myself again?
Peorth: I can't answer that one Keiichi only you can free yourself of your pain, I will tell you one thing though, do what Belldandy would have wanted you to do
Keiichi: what?
Peorth: just live, live your life to its fullest and find your reason to smile, to laugh, to basically feel alive again. Keiichi, there is no such thing as fate, the Almighty created humans with the intention of shaping their own futures, Keiichi you and only you can shape your future and only your decisions can influence whether or not something bad will happen, Keiichi never be afraid and things will be fine
Keiichi:...ha ha ha
Suddenly Keiichi broke out in a type of sad laughter
Peorth: Keiichi?
Keiichi: that's exactly what Belldandy told me
Peorth smiled she had a feeling Keiichi was going to be fine
Peorth: Keiichi I feel you should get your rest it is getting late
Keiichi: but what about my...
Peorth: already taken care of, I took your motorcycle home
Keiichi: Peorth, thank you I just can't think of anything else to say but thank you
Peorth: no Keiichi, I should be thanking you
________________________________________________________________________
Day 2
Keiichi woke up with a killer hangover but Keiichi didn't mind for that was going to be his last one. He decided to live again and the first step was to give up drinking. He got up, got dressed and went to the kitchen to get something to eat.
Peorth: good morning Keiichi
Keiichi: huh?
Peorth: made you breakfast
Keiichi looked at the food at the table it looked like there was enough to feed a small army, all created by Peorth's magic no doubt.
Keiichi: uuumm thanks but I think I'll skip breakfast
Peorth: oh no you shouldn't breakfast is one of the most important meals of the day and besides all this food just wants to be eaten by you
Keiichi remembered the time she kinda force fed him and shuddered and decided against skipping.
Keiichi: okay but I don't think I can finish though
Peorth: eat what you can
Keiichi sat down and did so between bites he spoke up.
Keiichi: Peorth I was thinking last night, how much I was a jerk yesterday and because of that I wasted one of your days so I want to make it up to you, today we'll do whatever you want
Peorth face literally lit up
Peorth: really?!!
Keiichi: yes, anything you want today as my way of saying I'm sorry
Peorth: Keiichi Morisato are you asking moi out?
Keiichi: well since you put it that way, I errrr...uuuummm I guess I am
Peorth: than I guess I have no choice but to humbly accept your proposal mon cherie, wait right here I have a few things I would like to plan out
Almost as fast as lightning she was out of the room, Keiichi sighed what had he gotten himself into? But still seeing her smile feels almost worth it.
________________________________________________________________________
Boy when Peorth said she was going to plan things out she really meant it Keiichi thought. In just a few minutes she had an entire schedule planned out for the day, a movie, a trip to the Aquarium, lunch, the Oceanside Park and finally a secret surprise in the evening. Keiichi couldn't put his finger on it but this sounded way too familiar somehow.
Voice: um excuse me sir?
Keiichi: huh?
Ticket Clerk: which movie would you like to see?
Keiichi was snapped from his daydream remembering he was standing in the ticket line for the movie.
Keiichi: two to Romance Story
After receiving their tickets and getting snacks (Keiichi almost couldn't believe how many snacks Peorth wanted, which really took a toll on his wallet), they sat down for the movie or rather waiting until the movie began.
Keiichi: previews who could possibly like the previews?
Peorth: oooohh I'd like to see that one, oh that movie has that dreamy actor...oh so does that one
Keiichi: I had to ask
Rather then risk falling asleep before the movie began Keiichi decided to start a conversation
Keiichi: so, here we are on this formal date (smooth Keiichi, real smooth)
Peorth: yes just you and me
Keiichi: ever been on a date before? (Gawd Keiichi can you sound any LESS lame?)
Peorth: not including that "group" one we had, yes I did...I was younger, and ironically it was also to a mortal
Keiichi: a mortal?
Peorth: yes we were really close or at least that's what I thought
Keiichi: really? What happened?
Peorth: do you mind if I don't talk about it anymore? It was in the past and I just don't feel like talking about what happened
Keiichi knew he had hit a nerve and didn't press on as the movie began. It was one of those typical sappy romances that Keiichi just couldn't get into but he noticed Peorth was practically absorbed into it, crying at the sad parts, laughing at the happy ones and cheering when the two lovers finally got together. Keiichi had to admit he had never known anyone who got so emotionally involved with a movie before, it was fascinating to see to say the least. Time seemed to fly by after movie and Keiichi found himself at the park after the trip to the aquarium. It was a rather amusing experience; he noticed one of the rare colorful angelfish had similar eyes to Peorth and when he told her that all she did was flashed him one of her goofy smiles. Keiichi could never understand what women were thinking and would never figure them out. Now he was eating lunch or what was supposed to be lunch again it was another mountain of food that Keiichi knew would go to his thighs if he were concern of petty vanity.
Keiichi: uuummm, this sure looks good
Peorth: yes now eat and don't worry there's plenty more where that came from
Keiichi: (I don't think I can even finish half of this) maybe you would like to share?
Peorth: nonsense this delectable feast is for my Lord Keiichi and him alone
Keiichi: okay
Peorth: you don't like it, do you?
Keiichi: no no no it's nothing like that it's just that you kinda make too much
Peorth: oh I'll just....
Keiichi: no you don't have to, I'm not saying I'm not grateful but can I ask you do you always create food with magic?
Peorth: yeah oh is my quality not good enough?
Keiichi: no it's great in fact it's too good, I believe that things like food should not be made by magic and by your own two hands, I know how hard it is to cook heck I still can't cook right myself but I know that making something for someone you care for the hard way just shows how much you care about them, for once Peorth can I taste something you made not out of magic?
Peorth: I wish I could but...
Keiichi: but what? You can tell me I'm your friend
Peorth: (and that's all we'll ever be, I'm afraid) I can't cook
Keiichi: you *snicker*
Peorth: don't laugh it's not funny
Keiichi :Sorry it's just HA HA HA HA HA!!!!!
Peorth: you laughed!!!!!
Keiichi: you're right I just perceived you as the type of person who could do anything she wanted
Peorth: I guess we all have our flaws, mine is that I just can't cook, never found the time I guess, Keiichi you are the only one to ask me this
Keiichi: if I have offended you, I'm sorry
Peorth: don't be, I'm just afraid that I'll offend you after you taste what I can actually do
Keiichi: I don't mind, just as long as you put your heart into it I'll eat it
Peorth: promise?
Keiichi: promise
Peorth: every last bite?
Keiichi: every last bite
Peorth: then I'll do it next time and I'll be looking forward to it
Keiichi: now I just can't let all this good food go to waste, so I'll start
Peorth: Keiichi, you still up for sharing? Maybe it will help you know motivate me
Keiichi: help yourself
Later after the visit to the Oceanside park
Keiichi: I still didn't think it was funny Peorth
Peorth: come on lighten up, the look on your face was priceless
Keiichi: you know I can't swim so summoning that mini tidal wave was something I would be afraid of
Peorth: you know that I wouldn't do anything to hurt you but still you had fun didn't you?
Keiichi: I guess it was, it was more fun I had for some time now
Peorth: then I did my job
Keiichi: say what was that surprise you promised you'd have?
Peorth: I suppose now would be a good time to show you, take my hand and I'll show you
Keiichi did so and was engulfed by a soft blue light that felt so relaxing as Peorth teleported them to the place of her choice, Keiichi opened his eyes after a few minutes and almost felt his jaw hit the floor
Keiichi: you GOT to be kidding me
Because he and Peorth were standing outside one of Japan's infamous love hotels
Keiichi: please tell me you're kidding
Peorth then broke out in a giddy fit of laughter as she looked at Keiichi's reaction
Peorth: I'm joking I'm joking...I don't want to ruin such a perfect day by doing something like that, besides I don't want to force you into something you wouldn't want to do
Keiichi: phew
Peorth: but still, there is something that I want Keiichi to end this perfect date
Keiichi: what?
Peorth: I want one kiss to seal the deal, kiss me the way you kiss Belldandy, I want to feel the same joy that she feels during a day like this
Keiichi: are you sure? I'm a lousy kisser
Peorth: just as long as you put your heart into it, I don't mind
Keiichi: you have a way with words you know?
Peorth: just shut up and kiss me
Keiichi nodded and the two leaned forward, it started off as a small kiss but it grew into something more passionate as Keiichi did put his heart into it not understanding what he was feeling at the moment why did he felt this way? Meanwhile with Peorth she never felt anything so joyous before, she almost considered adding tongue but decided against it realizing it would most likely scare him off, after they broke off the kiss the two were breathless.
Peorth: wow, now I understand
Keiichi: understand what?
Peorth: maybe someday you would know what I mean
Peorth said no more as this day came to a close, Keiichi was still in a small disarray what was he feeling? Why did Peorth make him feel this way? Keiichi hoped sleeping over it would result in some answers.
________________________________________________________________________
Day 3
Keiichi woke up incredibly refreshed this time, not having a hangover really made a difference. Like the creature of habit that he was, he got up, got dressed and headed for the kitchen for something to eat but was greeted by something really different. The kitchen was filled with smoke as if a warzone had taken place, Peorth looking like she had been through hell and back placed a plate on the table with well something on it.
Peorth: well I cough cough took your advice about not using magic so I hope you like it
Keiichi: an interesting way to cook eggs
Peorth: it's supposed to be rice
Keiichi: oh probably still good all the same
Keiichi sat down and took a bite
Peorth: well?
Keiichi: an interesting flavor, a very interesting blend never tasted anything quite like this before
Peorth: it's awful isn't it????!!!! AAARRRGGGHH I can seem to do this right!!!!
Keiichi: no no no it's not bad, in fact I think I'll eat all of it right now (don't want to hurt her feelings especially since I was the one who put her up to it)
And Keiichi did and with every bite it seemed a weight seemed to be lifted from Peorth's shoulders and finally he had eaten it all.
Keiichi: well I enjoyed that thank you
Peorth: (no matter what you are always the true gentleman) I'll do better next...oh
Keiichi: what? Oh there won't be a next time would there?
Peorth shook her head no
Keiichi: today's your last day, you have to go home huh? Isn't there anything you can do to stay longer?
Peorth: if the Almighty doesn't want it, then no I must follow my duty...Keiichi there's nothing else I'd rather want then to stay, that time we spent together yesterday wasn't bad I actually had fun
Keiichi: so did I, if it weren't for you I'd probably have been a no-good drunk or dead, Peorth you taught me that there is always something out there worth living for
Peorth: then I'm happy, just as long as you know what to do
Keiichi: (come on Keiichi say something to her) will I ever see you again?
Peorth: most likely no, I'm sorry
Keiichi: (is that all you can tell her??!! What can I say to her? How about goodbye? How about I care about you? Anything Keiichi don't give her this silence, she doesn't deserve it) When will you have to go home?
Peorth: midnight
Keiichi: I see
Peorth: so whatever plans you have today, I will follow them
Keiichi: I'd like to stay in if you don't mind
Peorth: as you wish, what would you like to do?
Keiichi: how about we just talk? I realize there so much I don't know about you?
Peorth: okay that sounds fun
Keiichi: (okay it has to be a good one) how old are you? (THAT'S THE BEST YOU CAN THINK UP??!!!)
Peorth just blushed
Peorth: Keiichi it's rude to ask a lady of her age, how about I just say around your age
Keiichi: I guess I can accept that, (okay this question has to be a better one) what's your bra size?
SLAP
Keiichi: ow I was only kidding (smooth one, Keiichi, that one kinda blurted out I suppose)
Peorth: you didn't sound like you were!!!!
Keiichi: all right, I just have one more question tell me more about the mortal that you used to be in love with
Peorth: HEY!!! That's unfair
Keiichi: Hey since we're on the topic of comforting one another, I want to comfort you it sounds like you've been keeping it inside for a long time
Peorth: yeah but our problems are nothing alike, he was a jerk and Belldandy was loyal to you until the end, I shouldn't waste your time with my petty problems
Keiichi: a petty problem eh? It sounds like it is hurting you ever since but since you don't want to tell me...
Peorth: I was only 10 or 11 I think when Belldandy came back to Heaven from a trip to Earth
Keiichi: (she's actually telling me??!!)
Peorth: I believe you already know this part of the tale, Keiichi she was forced to erase your memory after breaking one of Heaven's rules but despite all of that she still never forgot you, she always talked about that special little boy that she vowed she would one day see again
Keiichi: (Belldandy said that?)
Peorth: I myself also became fascinated with mortals since then, when I was around 15 or 16 I think I met someone whom I thought was special, I remember seeing him he had recently broken up with his own girlfriend and was about to end his life, feeling it just wasn't worth living anymore, I don't know what convinced me that day but I went to him, revealed who I was and we fell in love or so I thought
Keiichi: what happened?
Peorth: I wasn't convinced that I was really in love with him so I had he and I go through the Gate of Judgement
Keiichi: y-you went through the Gate of Judgement?!
Peorth: yeah and you all too well know of its track record, we were separated as soon as we passed, for a long time I thought it was because of me but the Almighty told me the truth we got separated because of him. He apparently only loved me for being a goddess he didn't care about me at all, I guess the idea of having a divine goddess was something anyone could have wanted, eh? I never saw him again after that
Keiichi: well at least you found out what type of person he was before he really got a chance to hurt you, I'd like to give him a punch to the nose if I ever saw him
Peorth: you're too kind and I know you won't, that's one of the reasons why I like you...ha ha HA HA
Keiichi: what's so funny?
Peorth: I actually do feel better, I never realized how just simply talking about it can do to a person
Keiichi: maybe you should listen to your own advice
Peorth: well here's to two lonely hearts
Keiichi: yeah and Peorth?
Peorth: yeah?
Keiichi: I hope you find that special someone
Keiichi turned and left to his room for much need contemplation. He couldn't think of anything else to say to the goddess and he was at the point of exploding so much he wanted to say and he couldn't even say a word at the moment. The hours seemed to fly by minutes and finally at 11:00.
Peorth: Keiichi? Where are you going?
Keiichi: I'm going to go visit Megumi, I just need some time alone
Peorth: well have fun
Keiichi didn't like the tone in Peorth's voice he just couldn't believe that she was leaving. He hurried to his motorcycle before it just got way to painful to stay. Soon he was at Megumi's apartment, after the usual greetings Keiichi was inside.
Megumi: so why are you here this time, Keiichi?
Keiichi: I just like a place to stay for the night if you don't mind
Megumi: no, I don't mind but you have to answer a few questions
Keiichi: what is this? An interrogation?
Megumi: hey I'm just a concerned sister that's all, you sound like you haven't gotten over Belldandy yet
Keiichi: it's not that
Megumi: another woman?
Keiichi: yeah how did you know?
Megumi: I was only kidding, but I guess the rumors of you hanging out with another woman are true
Keiichi: rumors? Who told you?
Megumi: let's just say a little bird told me, so who is it? Urd?
Keiichi: no
Megumi: Sora?
Keiichi: no
Megumi: Chihiro?
Keiichi: no
Megumi: don't tell me it's Skuld?
Keiichi: ARE YOU SICK???!!!! She's way too young no it's Peorth
Megumi: Peorth? Hhhhhmmmm oh you mean that strange exotic girl? Yeah funny I remember having a strange dream about Peorth, I dreamt that I fell in love with you not in a sisterly way and so did Urd and Skuld too...
Keiichi: ah-hem? The point of this?
Megumi: oh sorry, so what's the situation between you two?
Keiichi: well she came all the way from her homeland to basically look after me to see how I was coping without Belldandy she did everything in her power to make me feel better, unfortunately her job only allowed her three days to stay and she's going back at midnight and I have a feeling that after tonight I'll never see her again
Megumi: you've fallen in love with her haven't you?
Keiichi: what makes you say that?
Megumi: you have that tone in your voice, a sense of longing...
Keiichi: I don't know what I feel about her, it just seems so strange, I really like her and all but I feel that I would be unfaithful to Belldandy
Megumi: Keiichi, I think out of all people who would want you to love again, it would be Belldandy, knowing the type of person she was, she lived to make you happy and that made her happy. I have a feeling that she wants this to happen and even though she's no longer with us, I bet she's joyful that her Keiichi is willing to continue to find his happiness
Keiichi: I don't know if I can feel about another woman like I did Belldandy even if it's someone like Peorth
Megumi: are you really sure about that Keiichi?
Keiichi: all right, I'm in love with her there I said it
Megumi: so why aren't you seeing her off?
Keiichi: I can't tell her goodbye, it's just so painful. What can I say to her? Goodbye it's been nice knowing you? Then continue life as if nothing ever happened?
Megumi: OH?!!! I SEE!!! And you think by not facing her you don't have to feel bad??!! Well I'm sorry to say Keiichi it doesn't work that way, by not telling her at least how you feel, it will get worse, you will have a sense of guilt that will eat you up inside, you'll regret that you never took the chance to tell her, it will drive you insane to the point of your own self destruction of course that's just my opinion
Keiichi:....Megumi, what time is it?
Megumi: 11:30
Keiichi: if I hurry I think I can make it
Megumi: way to go Keiichi
Keiichi was out like a flash and was gone into the darkness of the night, Megumi smiled as she watched him leave.
Megumi: I have a feeling Keiichi is going to be okay...wait a minute, wasn't the airport the other direction?
________________________________________________________________________
The clock struck midnight and as the chimes emitted throughout the temple, Peorth sadly stepped out to the courtyard.
Peorth: I guess this is it, Keiichi I had fun but I wish you could have wished me to stay, I would have done that in a heartbeat
A pillar of light descended from the heavens and touched Peorth, it looked like she wouldn't get to see Keiichi again. However....
Keiichi: PEORTH!!!!
Peorth: Keiichi?
Keiichi: no I can't be too late, not now
Peorth: I'm sorry Keiichi, it is time I can't avoid this, this is fate I'm afraid
Keiichi: no wasn't it Belldandy and you who told me that there was no such thing as fate? I have to shape my own future and I want you to be a part of it
Keiichi approached the pillar of light he was no stranger to it as it was identical to the one that Belldandy had to use in that recall incident. The painful feelings as he stepped closer to it hadn't changed at all apparently, Keiichi struggled to get closer.
Peorth: Keiichi!! Are you crazy??!! You'll get yourself killed
Keiichi: I will risk it all Peorth you are worth it
Peorth: Keiichi, you know when you told me that I will find that special someone? I think I'm looking at him right now
Keiichi: we can talk about this later Peorth
Of course just like last time Keiichi just couldn't step close enough and was knocked back.
Keiichi: dammit I just wish there was some way to have you stay with me
Peorth's hope was restored when she heard this and she smiled
Peorth: care to repeat that Keiichi?
Keiichi: eh? I said dammit...
Peorth: NO!!! The other part
Keiichi: I just wish there was some way to have you stay with me?
Peorth: I only have one thing to say to that Keiichi
Keiichi: what?
Peorth: wish granted
A beam was emitted from Peorth's forehead forcing Keiichi to shield his eyes from the intense light, well at least there wasn't an explosion this time. After the light was over Peorth was standing over him with a joyful look on her face.
Peorth: are you just going to lie down there all day?
Keiichi: Peorth? But how?
Peorth: sorry to have left you in the dark Keiichi, I'll explain everything, you know when Belldandy stayed with you, a contract was required it was something was something way too important to be made alone, the same thing here too I was not planning on forcing myself into your life, so the only way I could stay is if you wanted me to stay and to do that...
Keiichi: I would have needed a contract with you, I can't believe that I never thought about that, I just can't believe it I came so close to losing you a few minutes ago and now here you are standing right in front of me
Peorth: if you don't mind I'd prefer to stand by your side
Keiichi: ha ha ha, Peorth I have so many things I want to tell you
Peorth: then tell me
Keiichi: Peorth, I think I love you
Peorth: and I love you too, Keiichi...ha ha sniff
Keiichi: Peorth? Are you crying? Again?
Peorth: don't worry I'm not sad, how can I be? I had these feelings for you for a long time and now this, this is like a fairy tale come true
Keiichi: I guess it does, so what do you to do now?
Peorth: anything you want, you're stuck with me remember?
Keiichi: Peorth, I wouldn't have asked for anything else
Keiichi and Peorth moved closer and pulled together for a sweet and passionate kiss (tongue included of course that's another story altogether)
Strange how things work out doesn't it? That was how Peorth and I got together. I may not know what the future may bring but at least I don't have to go about it alone. I've found my laugh, my smile and the feeling of being alive again.
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Okay that was a little longer then I'd thought it be, -_-;; oh well at least this chapters done. Hoped you liked it
The next chapter is going to be one about the present/future (following the format of the story), Keiichi and Peorth may already be happily married but what happens when a mysterious girl shakes everything up? Who is she? Why does Keiichi feel so drawn to her that it even makes Peorth jealous? (Of course that doesn't seem to be a hard thing to do)
Find out in Chapter 3: The Mysterious Verthandi...