Sins of a Goddess
Okay so here is the next chapter and like I said in the last chapter this one focuses on the present day. While the next one will focus on the past, still with me so far? Anyway there may be some out of character elements in this story so bear with me okay?
Well I'm done ranting on with the story ________________________________________________________________________
Present Day: The Mysterious Verthandi
Keiichi Morisato sighed as he looked at his wife from across the room seeming lost in her own deep concentration. There was nothing wrong with morning exercises and if she wanted to keep herself in shape that's great (and all the better for him if you get my drift). But did she really have to choose this activity? Biking or jogging wouldn't be this hazardous.
Peorth: okay Keiichi I'm ready, now attack me
Keiichi: but
You see ever since they got married, Peorth would like to start every morning with a self-defence practice. She always bragged that she knew various forms of karate, martial arts and all that other stuff you see in the movies and compiled it into the ultimate fighting technique. Now even still there wouldn't be anything wrong with this but the real problem was...
Peorth: stop hesitating and start attacking
Keiichi: but Peorth every time I do, I...
Peorth: I SAID NOW!!!!!
Was Keiichi was always her sparing partner...
Keiichi: eep, okay
Acting like he was some kung-fu hero from a movie Keiichi charged across the room and threw (in his opinion) his best punch. However she easily sidestepped it in such a graceful fashion you'd think they were dancing rather then fighting, grabbed his arm, threw him over her shoulder and he landed rather painfully on the ground, then she threw a punch while he was on the ground and her fist just stopped within an inch of his head.
Keiichi: argh
Peorth: getting better Keiichi but your form is still a little sloppy I can read it like a book
Peorth extended her hand and helped him up; Keiichi got up and rubbed his sore back.
Keiichi: I still don't see the point of doing this I can never beat you
Peorth: maybe or maybe not but I hope that you pick up a few things that I teach you
Keiichi: I still don't see why I need to know how to fight like I'd probably get creamed in a real fight
Peorth: but at least you will know how to protect yourself, Keiichi I know that one day I just won't be there for you and at the very least I would be comforted knowing that my dear husband went down fighting
Keiichi looked into her eyes such and was captivated by the look that she had. During the rather brief period he was married to Peorth he had already known her as a very beautiful woman (and in some cases a very sexy almost kinky one) but the look she had now after unloading her heartfelt feelings was perhaps the most beautiful one he had ever seen, Keiichi knew in his heart that this tough love was only her way of telling him that she loved him.
Keiichi: gee I never knew you felt that way Peorth, okay for you I'm willing to take on the world
Peorth: I'm ready when you are
And so that was how Keiichi Morisato spent his entire morning, being slammed, dropped and hammered into the ground. The ringing of the phone was a welcome break for the almost broken young man as he headed for the receiver.
Keiichi: hello Morisato residence, oh hi Chihiro...yeah I think I can work today, oh no nothing's wrong with me, my wife just beat me up...no I don't think I'm suffering from marital abuse...yeah I'm pretty sure I'm not in denial, okay see ya
Peorth: so my workingman is leaving poor little ol moi alone, today?
Keiichi: sorry about this Peorth
Peorth: no no that's fine
Keiichi: you sure?
Peorth: positive
Keiichi: you really sure? Don't want to leave with you on my guilty conscience
Peorth: oh you silly tease just go already
Keiichi: well I'll see you later
Peorth: au revoir
Peorth blew him a kiss as Keiichi went to his motorcycle, strapped on his helmet and drove off. To him this seemed like it would be just another day in his life but Keiichi Morisato couldn't have been more wrong.
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Keiichi didn't know how far he was from work when it happened maybe halfway? Anyway when it happened it came to a surprise, Keiichi's chest began to burn like fire. Feeling that this pain would distract him, Keiichi swivelled to the side and parked as he got off his motorcycle. Why was this happening? Why now after all of a sudden? The pain easily passed and he was just about to leave when he sensed something was wrong. Keiichi having lived with a goddess long enough had developed a sixth sense towards things like this, it lead him to an alley where three young men were assaulting a young woman.
Man#1: oh come on baby, just one night? I promise I won't be rough
Woman: please let me go, I don't want any trouble
Man#2: well too bad cause you just found trouble coming down here
Man#3: yeah so the way we see it, since you were trespassing you owe us
Woman: if it's money you want...
Man#1: no after seeing you I don't your money but rather something else of yours
Man#2: just give it up lady, when the boss sets his mind on something he won't let up
Man#3: yeah so why don't you be a good girl and do what he says...
Keiichi: or why don't you do what the lady says and let her go?
Keiichi had enough he wasn't going to turn his back on this even if he was outnumbered, the punks whirled angrily in Keiichi's direction
Man#1: and who's gonna make us shrimp, you?
Keiichi: if I have to, seeing people like you makes me sick, if you do what she says I will look the other way I don't want any trouble myself
Man#1: well listen to this comedian, listen shrimp you came here so you got trouble
The leader threw a fist at Keiichi, with all of Peorth's many self-defence lessons racing through his mind, Keiichi grabbed his arm and threw him to the ground and almost as a way to mock him, threw a punch which stopped within an inch of his head enough to scare the piss out him and his little cronies.
Keiichi: now are you going to leave or do I have to get rough?
Man#1: okay okay, I'll go just don't hurt me
And within a second there gone like rats.
Keiichi: woah, don't know my own strength
The woman than came forward seeing the men gone, turned to face her savior.
Woman: thank you for saving me
Keiichi: hey don't worry about it; I don't know why you'd want to go here this could be a pretty rough neighbourhood, miss
Keiichi finally got a good look at the woman and needless to say he was pretty surprise.
Keiichi: B-Belldandy??!!!
Indeed for the woman looked so much like her, except for a few different facial features (including the fact that this woman bared no goddess' markings), a more darker colored brunette hair and a lighter shade of blue eyes, you could have easily mistook this woman for Belldandy's twin if you saw her from a distance.
Woman: who?
Keiichi: nothing you just look like someone I used to know
Woman: someone you used to love I take it?
Keiichi: yeah
Woman: well again I thank you for your help but I must be going, I still need to find him
Keiichi: well if you just tell me I'll take you there if you want
Woman: no you've done enough for me as it is and even if I did accept your help I don't know where I'd want to go anyway
Keiichi: really? Then how do you know you're looking for someone if you don't know where to go? Miss...eeeerrrr?
Woman: I don't know my name either
Keiichi: what?!
Woman: I don't know anything about myself; it is all a blur to me. I can't remember my childhood, where I grew up or where I'm going. The only thing I can remember is a vague image of a face of someone, though it is unclear who he is I know if I find him he'll be able to tell me my past
Keiichi: you've haven't got a lot to work on, how do you know he's even here?
Woman: I just have a feeling he's close
Keiichi: (poor thing, she has amnesia and all she can rely on is a feeling, I know how she feels) miss, I think I know someone who can help you
Woman: you do?
Keiichi: yes, why don't you stay with us for a while? Just until your memory returns
Woman: no I shouldn't, I don't want to be a bother to you any more
Keiichi: look I can tell you really need help, I know what it's like to be alone, to feel so afraid, to not have a place to go home to, so what do you say? Look you don't have to accept but I just don't want to leave a person knowing that I can help in some way
Woman: I...I don't know how I can thank your kindness
Keiichi: don't, just seeing your smile is enough for me
The woman blushed a faint color but hid it quite well. As the two made it back to Keiichi's motorcycle.
Keiichi: so is there anything I can call you? I don't want to call you no name or anything
Woman: yes maybe a name would be necessary...okay I would like to be called Verthandi
Keiichi: Verthandi? That's an unusual name...(and so familiar) any particular reason why?
Verthandi: it's the designer label on this jacket see...the "Exotic Verthandi"
Keiichi: oh
As the two went for Keiichi's motorcycle , Keiichi quietly cursed, he didn't bring a second helmet for the sidecar of course he didn't really think he'd need it but still he didn't want the lady to experience even more trauma then she had already been through. Thinking quickly he unbuckled his own helmet and handed it over to Verthandi.
Keiichi: well here wear this
Verthandi: what are you going to wear?
Keiichi: aw don't worry, I wasn't planning on driving very fast but still safety first right?
Verthandi: thank you...sniff...thank you
Keiichi: is something wrong?
Verthandi: no it's nothing...for a moment I just felt like I remembered something
Verthandi strapped on the helmet, Keiichi looked back and chuckled
Keiichi: I don't know but I think it suits you
Verthandi: do you think so?
Keiichi: well here we go
Keiichi turned and drove back into the direction of the temple. Keiichi noticed the girl enjoying every minute of the ride admiring all the scenic beauties that he drove by, Keiichi smiled as he drove on as a thought filled his mind.
Keiichi: (this is no coincidence, this girl must be Belldandy. I mean she looks and acts so much like her. However if that is the case, will my marriage to Peorth ever be the same with Belldandy back? Because even after all this time my feelings for her...never changed, I know it in my heart that I still love her and I will do anything to have her back but even at the cost of Peorth's happiness?)
Suddenly Keiichi could feel a heavy weight had just been placed on his shoulders.
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Peorth Morisato may be one of the most powerful goddesses in heaven and had commanded a lot of respect and even living with a mortal for two years she still managed to maintain her sharp edge at things. However there was one thing that she just could not master, one thing that baffled her goddess brain to no end, one thing that day after day left her in a state of almost crying.
Peorth: this time I'll get it!!!!!
BOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMM!!!!!!!
Peorth: cough...guess not
Trying to cook anything without the use of magic. Sure she had gotten a lot of practice and had gotten better in comparison to her first attempt but she just couldn't quite get the hang of it. So why did she even bothered? Peorth always remembered what Keiichi had always told her about putting her heart in doing natural things with her own two hands. Those words of moral support always encouraged her and she always kept on trying. Keiichi would always eat whatever Peorth placed in front of him, all of it and all without a single complaint and afterwards he would always tell her how good the meal was, those small words always touched Peorth as they always reminded her the strength of Keiichi's love.
???: Hello Peorth trying to cook something again or did a warzone just went by?
Urd's voice snapped Peorth's mind out of dreamland as she turned to face her guest.
Urd: hello again Peorth
Peorth: Urd, it's good to see you
Peorth bowed to the head of Yggdrasil a position that she once had herself and given to Urd as well.
Urd: come on we're friends you do not need to bow in my presence just like you didn't want me to bow in yours
Peorth: I'm glad that you didn't let the job go to your head
Urd: AND WHAT'S THAT SUPPOSE TO MEAN??!!!
Peorth: oh you know what I mean Urd
Urd: oh you big dope
Peorth: so what brings you to my humble abode?
Urd: well I told them this was a surprise inspection to see how you and Keiichi have been holding up, where is the little guy anyway?
Peorth: went to work, you come here alone?
Urd: no Skuld came too
As if on cue Skuld showed herself from behind Urd, she bared a cold dark look at Peorth.
Skuld:...
Peorth: and she still hasn't forgiven me I see
Skuld: I hate you
Urd: I'm sorry Peorth
Peorth: no it's alright
Urd: Skuld quit acting rude!!!!
Skuld: I can't believe you Urd!!! I can't believe you can still call this "thing" your friend after what she has done to us!!! She let Belldandy die and if that wasn't bad enough she seduced Keiichi!!!!! I'll even bet she even let Belldandy die just so she can steal Keiichi for herself
Peorth didn't say anything the teen had struck a chord in her, could that be the truth? Did Peorth really do everything she could that day to stop Belldandy from sacrificing herself?
Peorth:...
Urd: SKULD!!!!!!
Skuld: I don't care what you think anymore Urd, Peorth is nothing but a...
Keiichi: that's enough!!!!
Everyone turned to see Keiichi standing in the doorway in the kitchen he had just recently arrived to see this little fiasco, he was really glad that he told Verthandi to wait at the sidecar so she didn't have to witness this. Keiichi took a deep breath as he tried to defuse this situation.
Keiichi: Skuld, I have a feeling you have been bearing this hatred for two years now, but have you ever asked yourself why?
Skuld: that's easy, she left sister to die so she could seduce you for herself. Admit it Peorth you have always been jealous of Belldandy, everything in her life you wanted too, you let your desire become so strong you were even so far that you let Belldandy sacrifice herself. You may not have the one to do it but as far as I can tell you are just as guilty as her murderer.
Peorth:...I...I
Keiichi: that's not true at all!!!!
Peorth: Keiichi don't try to defend me, you know yourself that everything Skuld says is true
Keiichi: and if it was, would I still be married to you?
Peorth:?!
Keiichi: I know Skuld that you are only listening to your feelings but so have I
Skuld: no you haven't, you let this sorry excuse of a goddess take you from sister, you forgot about her because of that
Keiichi: you know I was afraid that I would forget Belldandy too, but I realize that no matter what I do she'll always be with me just as long as I keep living life to its fullest. I chose to go with Peorth just like how she chose to be with me
Peorth: oh Keiichi
Peorth moves closer to her husband and wraps her arms around him, this causes the unexpected Keiichi to blush very fiercely
Peorth: I didn't know you cared
Skuld: (those two can it really be that their feelings are true?)
Peorth: hey wait, weren't you supposed to going to work?
Keiichi: AARRRRGGGGGHHHH I completely forgot!!!!! Can you wait here a sec?
Keiichi dashed out leaving the three perplexed goddess to wonder what the heck he was talking about. A few minutes later they could hear Keiichi coming back apologizing to someone.
Keiichi: I am SO sorry about that, I was a little tied up
Verthandi: that's alright, you do not need to apologize so much Mr. Morisato
Keiichi: please just call me Keiichi
Peorth: (who is he talking to?)
Her question was answered when Keiichi came back and with him was the vaguely familiar girl.
Keiichi: We have a guest, guys who will be staying with us for awhile. I'd like to introduce to you, Verthandi
Needless to say, the three goddess were very surprised at the arrival of this new girl.
Skuld: (B-Big Sister? No it's not her but why does she look like her?)
Urd: (no way....)
Peorth: um hi? (GAWD THIS IS SO AWKWARD!!!!)
Keiichi: Verthandi, this is Skuld...
Skuld: hello
Keiichi: Urd...
Urd just elbowed him in the ribs and gave him a sly smile.
Keiichi: ow what was that for? And this is my wife, Peorth
Verthandi: it is nice to meet you, Mrs. Morisato
Peorth: please don't be so formal, you make me sound like an old woman. Anyway it's nice to meet you too, do you mind while I have a little discussion with my dear husband?!
Peorth literally dragged Keiichi away leaving Verthandi and Skuld to wonder what was going on but Urd knew and smirked a bit.
Urd: someone's in the doghouse now
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Okay Peorth thought as she dragged her husband to the outside porch. I am NOT jealous at the very least at the prospect my husband has brought back a very cute and beautiful girl home. No I'm not suspecting him of having an affair and is using the "we have a guest routine" to cover it up (Peorth's paranoid mind kicking in there). I know he loves me so I'm going to ask very nicely his reasoning after all Keiichi never does anything without a reason.
Peorth: okay Keiichi, WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON??!!!
Oh yeah there definitely was a feeling of tension
Keiichi: Peorth I know this sounds a little last minute but...I feel this girl needs our help and we should help her
Peorth: Keiichi, you just can't simply go pulling girls out of the street just because you think they need help!!!!
Keiichi: she can't even remember her own name, Peorth!!! Verthandi is a name she made up so I could call her something, what was I to do? Leave her there?
Peorth: oh I don't know maybe she could go see a doctor or maybe the police or something
Keiichi: no they can't help her, they'll try for all eternity but they can't do a thing. No her only hope is with us
Peorth: there is more about this then playing Good Samaritan, there's another reason isn't there?
Keiichi:...yes
Peorth: than what is it?
Keiichi: I can't tell you, you won't believe me
Peorth: Keiichi if you can't trust me, than why should I trust your feelings about this matter?
Keiichi: there's more to this girl, I believe she's Belldandy
Peorth: WHAT??!! Out of all the ridiculous thoughts!!!!
Keiichi: She looks like her!!!!
Peorth: so?! That's only a coincidence!!!! I can understand that she may look like her but she is not and never will be Belldandy!!!
Keiichi: and how do you know?
Peorth: I just do
Keiichi: and what makes you, the all-powerful goddess so sure of herself?
Peorth: several reasons, if she really was Belldandy I would have been able to feel some sort of aura surrounding her but I feel none, as far as I can tell she's just simply a stranger who lost her memory
Keiichi: and maybe if she got her memory back...
Peorth: secondly she bears no goddess markings, a goddess of her rank and birth requires them to survive or did you forget?
Keiichi: maybe she found a way to come back without them?
Peorth: Keiichi, that is the stupidest thing I've ever heard!!!!! I might as well say mortals could live in space without air or maybe they can now survive without food or water
Keiichi: okay okay I get the point, but there was something living with you goddesses that has taught me something, the impossible is never really impossible and if there is even a possibility of hope than it can come true. I know its something silly to believe in but its something to hang on to...Peorth, even if Verthandi isn't Belldandy I just feel that I should help her, it feels so lonely being alone not remembering who you are and the one you love it's a painful thing and I feel that she shouldn't face it alone
Peorth: Keiichi...you are just why too stubborn but that also makes you way too kind. Keiichi I can't believe at the moment that she is Belldandy but I can see you're strongly going to help her with or without my consent so I'm going to help you too. I'm only afraid for you that's all
Keiichi: afraid about what?
Peorth: there must be a very good reason why Verthandi lost all her memories, whatever could have traumatized her enough...anyway do you really want to know what she has forgotten? Maybe its best that she carries this burden alone because what she has in her mind may cause you grief beyond imagination
Keiichi: and is this another one of your knowing facts?
Peorth: no this is a feeling, a bad one
Keiichi: you're just being paranoid again Peorth, but I appreciate your concern and thank you for understanding
Keiichi smiled at his wife and went back inside, Peorth sighed happily in contentment. However she still couldn't shake the dark feeling that Keiichi's kindness may split their love apart, their argument they just had was a sign of this, luckily it hadn't turned into anything too major.
Peorth: (but what if you are right Keiichi about everything, will I lose you forever?)
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Keiichi walked back inside and was in for a great surprise...
Verthandi: eeeeekkkkk!!!
Keiichi: aaaahhhhhh!!! Oh, it's just you Verthandi
Verthandi: I heard some yelling and I came over and I saw, oh I'm so sorry!!!! I didn't mean to eavesdrop on you two, I swear I didn't hear anything!!!!
Keiichi: nah it's okay...don't worry everything's okay
Verthandi: I must be starting to be a bother for you
Keiichi: say nothing of it, I usually don't make a decision if I'm going to regret it later
Just then Peorth who was also coming back inside heard the two, but instead of interrupting stayed out of sight to eavesdrop on the two, I'm not spying on Keiichi Peroth thought, I'm just making sure he's okay.
Verthandi: but your wife is angry with you
Peorth: (you're darn right, she is)
Keiichi: I know she may sound stern
Peorth: ggrrr...
Keiichi: and untrusting at times...
Peorth: gggrrrrr...
Keiichi: almost even pigheaded too...
Peorth: GGGGRRRR...
Keiichi: I'm sorry did you hear something?
Verthandi: hear what?
Keiichi: never mind, anyway that's only her way of telling me that she cares for me and I love and respect her for that
Peorth: oh Keiichi, you are so going to get a special treat tonight, hee hee
Keiichi: everyone has their ways of showing that they care. Do you remember how your loved one showed how he cared?
Verthandi: no, it is still all a blur to me...
Keiichi: well you keep trying and maybe it will come back to you
Verthandi: Keiichi...
???: MORISATOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!
Keiichi/Peorth: AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!
An unsuspecting voice rang out from outside the courtyard it had shocked Keiichi into almost jumping into the ceiling and it caused Peorth to trip out of her hiding spot revealing herself to Keiichi and Verthandi.
Keiichi: oh no not him, oh hi Peorth, didn't see you there
Peorth: Keiichi I thought you told me that you firmly said no, what's HE doing here?
Keiichi shrugged and sighed
Keiichi: I guess he just doesn't get the message
Verthandi who had surprisingly not been affected by the booming voice spoke up.
Verthandi: who? Who's here?
Peorth: a demon that just won't die!!!!!
Keiichi: Peorth! No don't mind her, it's just an old friend of mine...
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The three made their way to the courtyard where they were greeted by the seemingly inseparable duo Tamiya and Otaki.
Tamiya: Morisato!!! How youse doing?
Tamiya eyes then spotted Verthandi, a fierce fire roared in them as he stared darkly at Keiichi.
Tamiya: HOW DARES YOUSE CHEAT ON LADY PEORTH!!!!!
Keiichi: no wait!!! I can explain!!!!
Too late because within an instant Keiichi was on Tamiya's shoulders in his "Tamiya backbreaker special for cheaters".
Keiichi: Wait argh I really can ow explain
Tamiya: YOUSE EVEN PROMISED ME DAT YOUSE WILL TREAT HER RIGHT!!!!
Peorth: hey you big lug, LET GO OF MY KEIICHI!!!!!
The beauty instantly calmed the beast as little hearts appeared in his eyes.
Tamiya: yourse wish is my command
And Keiichi was dropped like a sack of patatos.
Keiichi: ooowww...
Peorth just simply sighed, how the big lug could still have a crush on her was beyond her.
Tamiya: sooo ifs Morisato is not cheatin' than who's dat girl?
Verthandi: my name is Verthandi, I'm staying with the Morisato's temporarily, its nice to meet you
Verthandi gave a graceful bow, causing Tamiya and Otaki to secretly hide back their pent up jealousy for Keiichi.
Tamiya: (gggggrrrrrr, even while married that damed Morisato still manages to get all da babes)
Meanwhile Keiichi had finally gotten up and was rubbing his sore back
Keiichi: look Tamiya, I know why you're here but my answer is still no
Tamiya: but Morisato!!!! Da Motorclub still needs ya
Otaki: we tried to get someone else but they're all amateurs and we can't afford to lose in the next big race.
Keiichi: need I remind you that I'm no longer part of the motor-club? Look don't get me wrong, I would like to work on it but I'm married now, I have a family to think of
Tamiya: but...
Peorth: listen, if Keiichi says no than the answer is no...
Verthandi: no to what?
Peorth: they want Keiichi to build an engine for their racer and as always are going to dump all the responsibilities on Keiichi
Verthandi: I think he should be honoured that they trust him so much that they are willing to part on him such an important task
Peorth: I know, but when he works on something he usually puts so much heart into it that he'll work himself to death that's why I convinced him to say no
Verthandi: you really love him a lot, don't you?
Peorth: yeah
Meanwhile...in quite a pathetic looking scene we see Tamiya and Otaki are now grovelling at Keiichi's knees (completely at his mercy).
Tamiya: PLEASE WESE REALLY NEED YOUR HELP!!!!
Keiichi: (man these two just won't give up, kinda makes me feel important though)
???: resorting to this? My my you two really are pathetic
Keiichi cringed he knew that voice yep it was Aoshima.
Tamiya: go away Toshiyuki wese are making a business deal with Morisato
Aoshima: a deal? Ha ha, sorry this is way too funny to make a comment about
Keiichi: Aoshima? Don't tell you two...
Otaki: yeah we challenged Aoshima
Tamiya: and da only way wese ever been able to beat da guy is wit youse help
Keiichi: sigh...look I don't know, HEY!!!!!!
Keiichi turned to see Aoshima handing a bouquet of flowers to his wife.
Aoshima: aaawww I see you are looking as lovely as ever, Lady Peorth
Peorth: ha ha thank you....(must resist urge to punch his arrogant face) I'll put these in water later
Keiichi: (a guy can only take so much!!!!) HEY QUIT HITTING ON MY WIFE!!!!
Aoshima: oh Keiichi I almost didn't see you there
Keiichi: gggrrrr
Aoshima: I'm not hitting on her, more like trying to show her what would have happened if she had chosen a winner like me
Peorth/Keiichi: sigh
Peorth: I'll have you know that Keiichi is ten times the man you'll ever be
Aoshima: oh really?
Peorth: why do you think he beat ya so many times?
Aoshima: THOSE WERE ALL FLUKES!!!!!
Aoshima realizing his yelling quickly regains his composure.
Aoshima: I mean if you are so confident of his abilities why don't you have him enter the race? If he wins I will leave and you'll never see me again
Keiichi: (I don't like this...he usually doesn't say things like this without a reasoning for it)
Aoshima: however if I win...how about you'll go out with me?
Peorth: deal
Keiichi: WHAT??!!! HEY I didn't agree to anything!!!! Besides you just can't simply go out with Peorth!!! She's a married woman if you didn't realize
Aoshima: last time I checked there was nothing wrong with a married woman accepting dates. Just think of it as her getting the chance to see other people
Verthandi: well I don't think that will happen because Keiichi will win for sure
Verthandi who had kept quiet up till now was impressed by Peorth's confidence and trust she had for Keiichi and just had to break her silence by giving her support for him as well. Keiichi gave her a smile in appreciation; Aoshima on the other hand was instantly smitten.
Aoshima: (that face, those beautiful eyes and that silky looking hair. Can there truly be another woman who can rival Peorth and Belldandy's beauty? Keiichi doesn't live with mortals, he lives with goddesses that's for sure) why hello, another goddess among women, what is your name, pretty flower?
Verthandi: my name is Verthandi and I do not like the way you are treating Keiichi
Aoshima: Keiichi is only getting what he deserves, maybe later I'll see you at the finish line too but for now here is a small token to compliment your beauty
Aoshima handed Verthandi another bouquet causing Keiichi to wonder where the heck did he get all of them all.
Verthandi: oh, why thank you
Verthandi gratefully accepted them and gave a small smile.
Aoshima: now where did such a beautiful woman like you come from?
Verthandi: I do not know, that's why I'm staying with Keiichi and his wife so they can help me find out who I am
Aoshima: you do not know? That is quite a pity but you won't learn anything hanging around that loser. I have connections to the proper people so why don't you forget him and come with me?
Keiichi: Now that's enough!!!!! Now you are trying to take advantage of a girl with amnesia? Seriously you make me want to puke
Aoshima: why do you care? You are already the married one
Keiichi: well you are trying to break us up I feel that I am entitled to an opinion
Verthandi: well I appreciate your offer but I must sadly decline, I feel that Keiichi will help me enough I hope you don't take offence
Aoshima cursed Keiichi within his head but covered it with a fake smile
Aoshima: no not at all, but if you feel you should ever change your mind...
And after doing his daily worth of taunting, began to walk away.
Aoshima: (after the race is over, Peorth will be filing divorce papers and this new Verthandi will also get to see how great I am. This is all working out perfectly for me, heaven is truly smiling at me)
Tamiya: great Morisato!!!!! Wese see you at da race!!!! Wese hope youse kick Aoshima's tail
Ands Tamiya and Otaki were gone. Leaving a very perplexed Keiichi...
Keiichi: okay what just happened?
Peorth: never mind!!! You are going to enter that race and you are going to win
Keiichi: but I thought you didn't want me to race?
Peorth: never mind what I said before, you are needed now!!! You will win not for just my honor but for yours as well besides you've beaten that jerk before remember? I know you can do it this time
Keiichi: do you really think so?
Peorth: I know so
Keiichi: well if I have you for my support I can't lose
Verthandi: there's just one problem
Keiichi: what's that?
Verthandi: didn't you mention before that the engine isn't even built yet?
Keiichi's bright mood was suddenly broken as he in quite an anime fashion, fell down in a state of shock.
Keiichi: oh noooo...I'm doomed!!!!!
Peorth: uumm maybe after a nice dinner, you can solve this problem?
________________________________________________________________________
Keiichi scribbled furiously a possible design of the engine on the dinner table it was perfect! With a design like this it would allow the car to reach top speed but unfortunately due to its flimsy design would probably burn up and burst into flames. Keiichi angrily crumpled up the useless piece of paper to join an additional pile of failed designs.
Verthandi: keep trying you'll get it!!!
Keiichi smiled at the girl sitting next to him, occasionally offering words of encouragement and begun to work on a new design, his pencil was like a paintbrush on a canvas as he began to sketch a new design.
Verthandi: Peorth was right
Keiichi: about what? Hmmm maybe I can do this?
Verthandi: you put so much heart into this
Keiichi: well someone once taught me that when you do something you put everything you have inside on your work: every detail, every line and the good memories of the people you are doing this for. Peorth placed so much trust for me I'm not going to let her down
Verthandi: this someone, would that be Belldandy?
Keiichi: how'd you know?
Verthandi: I remember when you mentioned her name, you thought I was her...she seems very important to you
Keiichi: yeah, she was the first woman I ever fell in love with...when I was with her I always felt so safe, felt like I could do anything and when she was in that tragic accident, I felt so alone, so lost I began to believe that life wasn't worth living anymore. I almost considered ending it all...but Peorth was there and stuck by my side, I told her many times to go away but she didn't, Peorth saved my life before it was all over. There's nothing I can do to ever repay her for that , the only thing I can do to help out is by staying by her side
Verthandi: that is so romantic, I hope I can find my special someone...aaaahhhh!!!!
Suddenly Verthandi gripped her chest in a seemingly unbearable pain.
Verthandi: aaahhhhh, my my heart
Keiichi: Verthandi? VERTHANDI?!!!
Keiichi went to check on Verthandi but in the process accidentally cut his finger on his table but he ignored it to help her.
Verthandi: don't worry, this happens from time to time...puff puff, but the pain always goes away.
Keiichi: are you okay?
Verthandi: I'll be fine like I said this isn't the first time
Keiichi: do you need to see a doctor?
Verthandi: no no, it's nothing really! It rarely ever happens and when it does it only lasts a minute
Keiichi: are you sure? Like those pains could get worse
Verthandi: no it never does
Keiichi: (she doesn't want me to worry about her just like Belldandy) alright but if it continues to happen, I'm going to take you to a doctor, okay?
Verthandi: fine
Keiichi: HEY!!!!!! (
Verthandi: what?
Keiichi: this design!!! It's absolutely perfect!!! A powerful combination of speed and endurance, wow Verthandi talking to you must have subconsciously allowed me to come up with this, Verthandi thank you
Verthandi: I should not take any credit for I didn't do anything
Keiichi: well after dinner, I should be able to should be able to start building it
Verthandi: I'll go help Peorth and the rest, why don't you go wash up?
Keiichi: okay
________________________________________________________________________
Peorth mercilessly was cutting the vegetables into finely diced pieces. It was obvious she was in a foul mood.
Urd: you seem tensed, Peorth
Peorth: TENSED??!! I'M PERFECTLY CALM!!!! CAN'T YOU SEE IT??!! WHAT MAKES YOU THINK I'M TENSED??!!!
Urd: geez...
Peorth: I'm sorry, you're right...it's just what has happened today, it's way too much I can bear
Urd: it's about this Verthandi isn't it?
Peorth: yeah I guess so, Keiichi is really warming up to her
Urd: you two have been married for two years, he's passed any test in proving his love for you. You must be more afraid of something else than this girl simply stealing him from you
Peorth:...
Urd: tell me what are you afraid of?
Peorth: Urd, he's convinced himself that Verthandi is Belldandy
Urd: I thought something like that
Peorth: and aren't you even the slightest bit worried? He is trying to believe his own lie, trying to give himself false hope for something that cannot be.
Urd: really? Or are you more afraid that she really is Belldandy and things will go back to normal when she regains her memory?
Peorth: NO!!!! I mean Keiichi's happiness is my primary concern...I want Belldandy back as much as he does but that cannot happen I just don't want Keiichi to get hurt when he learns the truth
Urd: the truth...
Peorth: Urd don't tell me you're actually believing this
Urd: I don't know myself but it's just a feeling. I know that right now she seems like a mortal girl but maybe there is something more? Maybe I'll have Yggdrasil check in on this, if that girl is Belldandy Yggdrasil will know
Peorth: yes that is an excellent idea Urd, well in the meantime would you like to help me serve dinner?
Urd: dinner? You mean that stuff in the pot?
Peorth: yeah
Urd: uumm sure okay...
Just then Verthandi entered the kitchen
Verthandi: hello, do you need any help?
Urd: yeah!!! Errrr Verthandi why don't you help Peorth? I've got something I'd want to say to Keiichi
Verthandi: okay
Urd quickly made a hasty retreat
Verthandi: hhhhmmm is that dinner?
Peorth: yeah, it's my famous Peorth Soup Surprise
Verthandi took a spoon and took a sip
Verthandi: it's quite good
Peorth: thank you, between you and me cooking has always been a specialty of mine HA HA HA (...well at least I think it is)
Verthandi: it's just needs a few things, do you mind?
Peorth: sure go ahead (like it needs it, heh heh)
Later at the dinner table everyone had gathered round.
Peorth: well eat up, there's plenty for seconds
Skuld: are you sure this is food or is it motor oil?
Peorth: HEY!!!!!
Skuld: well I absolutely refuse to eat unless I find out if it's actually edible or not
Peorth: fine you lousy brat, Urd?
Urd: well I'm on this very strict diet that I can't eat...uuummm a certain types of liquids, so sorry
Peorth:...
Keiichi: don't worry dear I'll try some
Peorth: thank you Keiichi at LEAST some people are considerate
Keiichi: heh heh yeah (this may not be one of my better ideas)
Keiichi dunk his spoon in the slimy liquid and put it into his mouth however this time he was pleasantly surprised.
Keiichi: mmmmmm this is great!!!!! You've really surpassed yourself this time Peorth
Peorth: what do you mean?
Peorth took a spoonful herself it was the most delicious thing she had ever tasted, she noticed that Skuld and Urd were eating it too.
Keiichi: so what did you make this time Peorth?
Peorth: well it's an old recipe and...
Verthandi: you added some new changes to it this time haven't you Peorth? Congratulations
Peorth: (she refuses to take any recognition for this, she's giving me all the credit...Verthandi, thank you)
Urd: well thanks for dinner but me and Skuld have got to be leaving
Skuld: we do? But I want to...
Urd: maybe another time Skuld but right now we have other things to tend to
Skuld: why are you always treating me like a kid, Urd!!!!!!
________________________________________________________________________
Later that night...Urd and Skuld had left, Verthandi was shown to a room it would seem like everyone and everything was asleep for the night all except...
Peorth: you've been working for hours are you sure you don't want to turn it in for the night?
Keiichi: no way, I almost halfway done
Peorth: but don't strain yourself, you still are just human Keiichi
Keiichi: no prob, I feel if I can get as much as I can done now, the less I have to do later before the race.
Peorth: but isn't there anything I can get you Keiichi?
Keiichi: a cold drink would be nice
Peorth: sure thing
Keiichi: and please try not to add anything into it
Peorth: would I look like someone who'd do that? Don't answer that...
Keiichi worked for a few more seconds when a hand offered him a cold drink
Keiichi: aw thanks Peorth, that was...
Keiichi accepted the drink and was mildly surprised that it was Verthandi who had given him the drink.
Keiichi: oh hi Verthandi
Verthandi: I thought you might have been thirsty
Keiichi: thank you that is very considerate of you
Verthandi: so how is it going?
Keiichi: well let's put it this way, it is so much easier to design something than to actually build it
Verthandi: that bad, huh?
Keiichi: don't worry I've got time till the actual race I just want to finish as much as I can right now
Verthandi: you truly are amazing with that spirit and determination that you have Keiichi
Keiichi: well I try, oh and thank you
Verthandi: for what?
Keiichi: for dinner of course, Peorth tries really hard I know but let's just face it I know not even her standards could have improved THAT much
Verthandi: she did make dinner, all I did was just added a few things
Keiichi: well I guess I'm really lucky I've got two cooks in this place...argh darn
Verthandi: oh what is it?
Keiichi: nothing, I just dropped something
Verthandi: oh let me get it
Keiichi and Verthandi reached down at the exact same moment and their hands touched.
Verthandi: oh
Verthandi began to blush
Keiichi: Verthandi what is it?
Verthandi: Keiichi...
Keiichi looked up and felt he could get lost in those soulful eyes of hers, he couldn't help himself she was really beautiful. Keiichi could feel their faces were a little close for comfort but neither of them seemed to mind. Keiichi could feel his face moving closer to her's as if an invisible force was pushing him to her.
Keiichi: (Verthandi...it's only natural that I'd feel this way about her, like she is Belldandy right? Well at least I think she is but Peorth...what will happen to her? Even if she was Belldandy can I just simply cast her aside? No this isn't right!!!!)
Keiichi stopped himself and shook his head.
Keiichi: no, I'm sorry Verthandi...I just don't know what came over me just now
Verthandi: Keiichi, I'm sorry....oh
Fire seemed to strike Verthandi as she gripped her chest again.
Verthandi: it's happening again...my heart!
Keiichi: Verthandi? Huh?
Verthandi got up and ran off not wanting Keiichi to see her in pain, Keiichi tried to follow her but suddenly he could feel his engine getting really hot.
Keiichi: huh? What the heck is going on?
That was all Keiichi could say before it unexpectedly exploded, the blast hit Keiichi as he struck a wall. Keiichi could feel the world around him blackening as the last thing he was able to see was his concerned wife dropping everything she was carrying and running up to him screaming his name.
________________________________________________________________________
You have forgotten me...
Keiichi: (no that's not true!!!!)
Than how would you explain your behavior? I thought you said you loved me
Keiichi: (but I do, more than anything in this world)
I thought that was true, but now I see your words are nothing but lies!!!!
Keiichi: (no)
I can no longer trust you but I wonder when it's all over, will your feelings mean anything?
Keiichi: (please you must believe me, I do love you please don't leave, what do you mean when it's all over?)
Keiichi...it's time to wake up now
Keiichi: (huh?)
Keiichi...please you must wake up!!! Keiichi? KEIICHI!!!!
Keiichi's eyes opened and he was greeted by the sight of his wife, she smiled at him just relived that he was okay, her eyes were red as if she had been crying (maybe she had) and her smile seemed to renew Keiichi's stamina as he began to get up. He noticed it was the next morning and the sun had come out, however as he moved forward he could feel Peorth push him back.
Peorth: no please, just rest
Keiichi: don't really I'm ow fine
Peorth looked at him like she wasn't convinced.
Peorth: Keiichi, what happened?
Keiichi: dunno, I was talking to Verthandi, she seemed to be suffering from a chest pain, next thing I knew the engine just blew on me. Heh I really have to thank Skuld, I've gotten so used to being blown up
Peorth: Keiichi don't kid around!!! I'm trying to be serious. Sigh, this is all my fault, why did I let my blind pride get the better of me? I shouldn't have volunteered you without having your consent. Keiichi why don't we just forfeit and let Aoshima win the bet
Keiichi: what? And simply walk away with my tail between my legs as that scumbag tries to take advantage of you? I don't think so, if I'm going to go down I'm going to go down fighting just like my beautiful wife would have wanted me to do
Peorth: Keiichi...ha ha, I just can't stop you can I?
Keiichi: don't even try
Peorth: all right but Keiichi try not to strain yourself, just pace it okay?
Keiichi: I will, say how much of the engine actually survived?
Peorth: I'm sorry but the explosion totalled it
Keiichi: I was afraid of that, guess I'm going to have to start from scratch
Keiichi got up and left and was soon hard at work again, Peorth watched him from the distance not being able to help but smile. He could hear footsteps behind her as she knew Verthandi was there too.
Verthandi: Keiichi!!!!
Peorth: no Verthandi, you cannot stop him
Verthandi: what type of wife are you?!! You know that he's hurt and yet you let him continue to work?
That remark was like a slap to the face even though she knew it wasn't meant to be one and Verthandi was just showing her concern for Keiichi's safety.
Peorth: I know all that, but when Keiichi has started something he'll continue to follow his heart until he's finished it. Nothing and no one can stop him, not even me...besides I don't even want to
Verthandi: but why?
Peorth: when Keiichi follows his heart he shows a type of happiness that so few can understand. It is than he feels complete and feels alive...I do not wish to stop Keiichi when he is happy for his happiness is my happiness as well. All I can do, is watch him fulfil his dreams and hopefully be a part of it too
Verthandi: I think I'm beginning to understand, Peorth I'm sorry
Peorth: don't be it's alright...(but why do I feel that you were involved with the little "accident" Keiichi had yesterday? If you dare to even try to hurt Keiichi I will not hesitate to kill you)
The following week went by with no problems, as Keiichi was all ready for the day of the race. However was he truly ready for what was in store for him? Only time can tell...
________________________________________________________________________
Man that was longer than I thought, but this chapter is finished!!!! ( Just want to say a few things...
Yeah I probably made it way too obvious of who Verthandi is but just bear with me okay? Something is going to lead into this but I don't want to give anything away
If I have offended any Aoshima or Tamiya fans with my personal portrayal of them, well I'm sorry cause they also just so happen to be my two LEAST favorite characters in the Ah My Goddess! universe. I just so enjoy writing about their stupidity.
Did I make Peorth a little out of character? I'm really trying to avoid turning her into a Belldandy clone, honest -_-;;
The next chapter will be one taking place in the past, be sure to catch it
Well see you next time!
Okay so here is the next chapter and like I said in the last chapter this one focuses on the present day. While the next one will focus on the past, still with me so far? Anyway there may be some out of character elements in this story so bear with me okay?
Well I'm done ranting on with the story ________________________________________________________________________
Present Day: The Mysterious Verthandi
Keiichi Morisato sighed as he looked at his wife from across the room seeming lost in her own deep concentration. There was nothing wrong with morning exercises and if she wanted to keep herself in shape that's great (and all the better for him if you get my drift). But did she really have to choose this activity? Biking or jogging wouldn't be this hazardous.
Peorth: okay Keiichi I'm ready, now attack me
Keiichi: but
You see ever since they got married, Peorth would like to start every morning with a self-defence practice. She always bragged that she knew various forms of karate, martial arts and all that other stuff you see in the movies and compiled it into the ultimate fighting technique. Now even still there wouldn't be anything wrong with this but the real problem was...
Peorth: stop hesitating and start attacking
Keiichi: but Peorth every time I do, I...
Peorth: I SAID NOW!!!!!
Was Keiichi was always her sparing partner...
Keiichi: eep, okay
Acting like he was some kung-fu hero from a movie Keiichi charged across the room and threw (in his opinion) his best punch. However she easily sidestepped it in such a graceful fashion you'd think they were dancing rather then fighting, grabbed his arm, threw him over her shoulder and he landed rather painfully on the ground, then she threw a punch while he was on the ground and her fist just stopped within an inch of his head.
Keiichi: argh
Peorth: getting better Keiichi but your form is still a little sloppy I can read it like a book
Peorth extended her hand and helped him up; Keiichi got up and rubbed his sore back.
Keiichi: I still don't see the point of doing this I can never beat you
Peorth: maybe or maybe not but I hope that you pick up a few things that I teach you
Keiichi: I still don't see why I need to know how to fight like I'd probably get creamed in a real fight
Peorth: but at least you will know how to protect yourself, Keiichi I know that one day I just won't be there for you and at the very least I would be comforted knowing that my dear husband went down fighting
Keiichi looked into her eyes such and was captivated by the look that she had. During the rather brief period he was married to Peorth he had already known her as a very beautiful woman (and in some cases a very sexy almost kinky one) but the look she had now after unloading her heartfelt feelings was perhaps the most beautiful one he had ever seen, Keiichi knew in his heart that this tough love was only her way of telling him that she loved him.
Keiichi: gee I never knew you felt that way Peorth, okay for you I'm willing to take on the world
Peorth: I'm ready when you are
And so that was how Keiichi Morisato spent his entire morning, being slammed, dropped and hammered into the ground. The ringing of the phone was a welcome break for the almost broken young man as he headed for the receiver.
Keiichi: hello Morisato residence, oh hi Chihiro...yeah I think I can work today, oh no nothing's wrong with me, my wife just beat me up...no I don't think I'm suffering from marital abuse...yeah I'm pretty sure I'm not in denial, okay see ya
Peorth: so my workingman is leaving poor little ol moi alone, today?
Keiichi: sorry about this Peorth
Peorth: no no that's fine
Keiichi: you sure?
Peorth: positive
Keiichi: you really sure? Don't want to leave with you on my guilty conscience
Peorth: oh you silly tease just go already
Keiichi: well I'll see you later
Peorth: au revoir
Peorth blew him a kiss as Keiichi went to his motorcycle, strapped on his helmet and drove off. To him this seemed like it would be just another day in his life but Keiichi Morisato couldn't have been more wrong.
________________________________________________________________________
Keiichi didn't know how far he was from work when it happened maybe halfway? Anyway when it happened it came to a surprise, Keiichi's chest began to burn like fire. Feeling that this pain would distract him, Keiichi swivelled to the side and parked as he got off his motorcycle. Why was this happening? Why now after all of a sudden? The pain easily passed and he was just about to leave when he sensed something was wrong. Keiichi having lived with a goddess long enough had developed a sixth sense towards things like this, it lead him to an alley where three young men were assaulting a young woman.
Man#1: oh come on baby, just one night? I promise I won't be rough
Woman: please let me go, I don't want any trouble
Man#2: well too bad cause you just found trouble coming down here
Man#3: yeah so the way we see it, since you were trespassing you owe us
Woman: if it's money you want...
Man#1: no after seeing you I don't your money but rather something else of yours
Man#2: just give it up lady, when the boss sets his mind on something he won't let up
Man#3: yeah so why don't you be a good girl and do what he says...
Keiichi: or why don't you do what the lady says and let her go?
Keiichi had enough he wasn't going to turn his back on this even if he was outnumbered, the punks whirled angrily in Keiichi's direction
Man#1: and who's gonna make us shrimp, you?
Keiichi: if I have to, seeing people like you makes me sick, if you do what she says I will look the other way I don't want any trouble myself
Man#1: well listen to this comedian, listen shrimp you came here so you got trouble
The leader threw a fist at Keiichi, with all of Peorth's many self-defence lessons racing through his mind, Keiichi grabbed his arm and threw him to the ground and almost as a way to mock him, threw a punch which stopped within an inch of his head enough to scare the piss out him and his little cronies.
Keiichi: now are you going to leave or do I have to get rough?
Man#1: okay okay, I'll go just don't hurt me
And within a second there gone like rats.
Keiichi: woah, don't know my own strength
The woman than came forward seeing the men gone, turned to face her savior.
Woman: thank you for saving me
Keiichi: hey don't worry about it; I don't know why you'd want to go here this could be a pretty rough neighbourhood, miss
Keiichi finally got a good look at the woman and needless to say he was pretty surprise.
Keiichi: B-Belldandy??!!!
Indeed for the woman looked so much like her, except for a few different facial features (including the fact that this woman bared no goddess' markings), a more darker colored brunette hair and a lighter shade of blue eyes, you could have easily mistook this woman for Belldandy's twin if you saw her from a distance.
Woman: who?
Keiichi: nothing you just look like someone I used to know
Woman: someone you used to love I take it?
Keiichi: yeah
Woman: well again I thank you for your help but I must be going, I still need to find him
Keiichi: well if you just tell me I'll take you there if you want
Woman: no you've done enough for me as it is and even if I did accept your help I don't know where I'd want to go anyway
Keiichi: really? Then how do you know you're looking for someone if you don't know where to go? Miss...eeeerrrr?
Woman: I don't know my name either
Keiichi: what?!
Woman: I don't know anything about myself; it is all a blur to me. I can't remember my childhood, where I grew up or where I'm going. The only thing I can remember is a vague image of a face of someone, though it is unclear who he is I know if I find him he'll be able to tell me my past
Keiichi: you've haven't got a lot to work on, how do you know he's even here?
Woman: I just have a feeling he's close
Keiichi: (poor thing, she has amnesia and all she can rely on is a feeling, I know how she feels) miss, I think I know someone who can help you
Woman: you do?
Keiichi: yes, why don't you stay with us for a while? Just until your memory returns
Woman: no I shouldn't, I don't want to be a bother to you any more
Keiichi: look I can tell you really need help, I know what it's like to be alone, to feel so afraid, to not have a place to go home to, so what do you say? Look you don't have to accept but I just don't want to leave a person knowing that I can help in some way
Woman: I...I don't know how I can thank your kindness
Keiichi: don't, just seeing your smile is enough for me
The woman blushed a faint color but hid it quite well. As the two made it back to Keiichi's motorcycle.
Keiichi: so is there anything I can call you? I don't want to call you no name or anything
Woman: yes maybe a name would be necessary...okay I would like to be called Verthandi
Keiichi: Verthandi? That's an unusual name...(and so familiar) any particular reason why?
Verthandi: it's the designer label on this jacket see...the "Exotic Verthandi"
Keiichi: oh
As the two went for Keiichi's motorcycle , Keiichi quietly cursed, he didn't bring a second helmet for the sidecar of course he didn't really think he'd need it but still he didn't want the lady to experience even more trauma then she had already been through. Thinking quickly he unbuckled his own helmet and handed it over to Verthandi.
Keiichi: well here wear this
Verthandi: what are you going to wear?
Keiichi: aw don't worry, I wasn't planning on driving very fast but still safety first right?
Verthandi: thank you...sniff...thank you
Keiichi: is something wrong?
Verthandi: no it's nothing...for a moment I just felt like I remembered something
Verthandi strapped on the helmet, Keiichi looked back and chuckled
Keiichi: I don't know but I think it suits you
Verthandi: do you think so?
Keiichi: well here we go
Keiichi turned and drove back into the direction of the temple. Keiichi noticed the girl enjoying every minute of the ride admiring all the scenic beauties that he drove by, Keiichi smiled as he drove on as a thought filled his mind.
Keiichi: (this is no coincidence, this girl must be Belldandy. I mean she looks and acts so much like her. However if that is the case, will my marriage to Peorth ever be the same with Belldandy back? Because even after all this time my feelings for her...never changed, I know it in my heart that I still love her and I will do anything to have her back but even at the cost of Peorth's happiness?)
Suddenly Keiichi could feel a heavy weight had just been placed on his shoulders.
________________________________________________________________________
Peorth Morisato may be one of the most powerful goddesses in heaven and had commanded a lot of respect and even living with a mortal for two years she still managed to maintain her sharp edge at things. However there was one thing that she just could not master, one thing that baffled her goddess brain to no end, one thing that day after day left her in a state of almost crying.
Peorth: this time I'll get it!!!!!
BOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMM!!!!!!!
Peorth: cough...guess not
Trying to cook anything without the use of magic. Sure she had gotten a lot of practice and had gotten better in comparison to her first attempt but she just couldn't quite get the hang of it. So why did she even bothered? Peorth always remembered what Keiichi had always told her about putting her heart in doing natural things with her own two hands. Those words of moral support always encouraged her and she always kept on trying. Keiichi would always eat whatever Peorth placed in front of him, all of it and all without a single complaint and afterwards he would always tell her how good the meal was, those small words always touched Peorth as they always reminded her the strength of Keiichi's love.
???: Hello Peorth trying to cook something again or did a warzone just went by?
Urd's voice snapped Peorth's mind out of dreamland as she turned to face her guest.
Urd: hello again Peorth
Peorth: Urd, it's good to see you
Peorth bowed to the head of Yggdrasil a position that she once had herself and given to Urd as well.
Urd: come on we're friends you do not need to bow in my presence just like you didn't want me to bow in yours
Peorth: I'm glad that you didn't let the job go to your head
Urd: AND WHAT'S THAT SUPPOSE TO MEAN??!!!
Peorth: oh you know what I mean Urd
Urd: oh you big dope
Peorth: so what brings you to my humble abode?
Urd: well I told them this was a surprise inspection to see how you and Keiichi have been holding up, where is the little guy anyway?
Peorth: went to work, you come here alone?
Urd: no Skuld came too
As if on cue Skuld showed herself from behind Urd, she bared a cold dark look at Peorth.
Skuld:...
Peorth: and she still hasn't forgiven me I see
Skuld: I hate you
Urd: I'm sorry Peorth
Peorth: no it's alright
Urd: Skuld quit acting rude!!!!
Skuld: I can't believe you Urd!!! I can't believe you can still call this "thing" your friend after what she has done to us!!! She let Belldandy die and if that wasn't bad enough she seduced Keiichi!!!!! I'll even bet she even let Belldandy die just so she can steal Keiichi for herself
Peorth didn't say anything the teen had struck a chord in her, could that be the truth? Did Peorth really do everything she could that day to stop Belldandy from sacrificing herself?
Peorth:...
Urd: SKULD!!!!!!
Skuld: I don't care what you think anymore Urd, Peorth is nothing but a...
Keiichi: that's enough!!!!
Everyone turned to see Keiichi standing in the doorway in the kitchen he had just recently arrived to see this little fiasco, he was really glad that he told Verthandi to wait at the sidecar so she didn't have to witness this. Keiichi took a deep breath as he tried to defuse this situation.
Keiichi: Skuld, I have a feeling you have been bearing this hatred for two years now, but have you ever asked yourself why?
Skuld: that's easy, she left sister to die so she could seduce you for herself. Admit it Peorth you have always been jealous of Belldandy, everything in her life you wanted too, you let your desire become so strong you were even so far that you let Belldandy sacrifice herself. You may not have the one to do it but as far as I can tell you are just as guilty as her murderer.
Peorth:...I...I
Keiichi: that's not true at all!!!!
Peorth: Keiichi don't try to defend me, you know yourself that everything Skuld says is true
Keiichi: and if it was, would I still be married to you?
Peorth:?!
Keiichi: I know Skuld that you are only listening to your feelings but so have I
Skuld: no you haven't, you let this sorry excuse of a goddess take you from sister, you forgot about her because of that
Keiichi: you know I was afraid that I would forget Belldandy too, but I realize that no matter what I do she'll always be with me just as long as I keep living life to its fullest. I chose to go with Peorth just like how she chose to be with me
Peorth: oh Keiichi
Peorth moves closer to her husband and wraps her arms around him, this causes the unexpected Keiichi to blush very fiercely
Peorth: I didn't know you cared
Skuld: (those two can it really be that their feelings are true?)
Peorth: hey wait, weren't you supposed to going to work?
Keiichi: AARRRRGGGGGHHHH I completely forgot!!!!! Can you wait here a sec?
Keiichi dashed out leaving the three perplexed goddess to wonder what the heck he was talking about. A few minutes later they could hear Keiichi coming back apologizing to someone.
Keiichi: I am SO sorry about that, I was a little tied up
Verthandi: that's alright, you do not need to apologize so much Mr. Morisato
Keiichi: please just call me Keiichi
Peorth: (who is he talking to?)
Her question was answered when Keiichi came back and with him was the vaguely familiar girl.
Keiichi: We have a guest, guys who will be staying with us for awhile. I'd like to introduce to you, Verthandi
Needless to say, the three goddess were very surprised at the arrival of this new girl.
Skuld: (B-Big Sister? No it's not her but why does she look like her?)
Urd: (no way....)
Peorth: um hi? (GAWD THIS IS SO AWKWARD!!!!)
Keiichi: Verthandi, this is Skuld...
Skuld: hello
Keiichi: Urd...
Urd just elbowed him in the ribs and gave him a sly smile.
Keiichi: ow what was that for? And this is my wife, Peorth
Verthandi: it is nice to meet you, Mrs. Morisato
Peorth: please don't be so formal, you make me sound like an old woman. Anyway it's nice to meet you too, do you mind while I have a little discussion with my dear husband?!
Peorth literally dragged Keiichi away leaving Verthandi and Skuld to wonder what was going on but Urd knew and smirked a bit.
Urd: someone's in the doghouse now
________________________________________________________________________
Okay Peorth thought as she dragged her husband to the outside porch. I am NOT jealous at the very least at the prospect my husband has brought back a very cute and beautiful girl home. No I'm not suspecting him of having an affair and is using the "we have a guest routine" to cover it up (Peorth's paranoid mind kicking in there). I know he loves me so I'm going to ask very nicely his reasoning after all Keiichi never does anything without a reason.
Peorth: okay Keiichi, WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON??!!!
Oh yeah there definitely was a feeling of tension
Keiichi: Peorth I know this sounds a little last minute but...I feel this girl needs our help and we should help her
Peorth: Keiichi, you just can't simply go pulling girls out of the street just because you think they need help!!!!
Keiichi: she can't even remember her own name, Peorth!!! Verthandi is a name she made up so I could call her something, what was I to do? Leave her there?
Peorth: oh I don't know maybe she could go see a doctor or maybe the police or something
Keiichi: no they can't help her, they'll try for all eternity but they can't do a thing. No her only hope is with us
Peorth: there is more about this then playing Good Samaritan, there's another reason isn't there?
Keiichi:...yes
Peorth: than what is it?
Keiichi: I can't tell you, you won't believe me
Peorth: Keiichi if you can't trust me, than why should I trust your feelings about this matter?
Keiichi: there's more to this girl, I believe she's Belldandy
Peorth: WHAT??!! Out of all the ridiculous thoughts!!!!
Keiichi: She looks like her!!!!
Peorth: so?! That's only a coincidence!!!! I can understand that she may look like her but she is not and never will be Belldandy!!!
Keiichi: and how do you know?
Peorth: I just do
Keiichi: and what makes you, the all-powerful goddess so sure of herself?
Peorth: several reasons, if she really was Belldandy I would have been able to feel some sort of aura surrounding her but I feel none, as far as I can tell she's just simply a stranger who lost her memory
Keiichi: and maybe if she got her memory back...
Peorth: secondly she bears no goddess markings, a goddess of her rank and birth requires them to survive or did you forget?
Keiichi: maybe she found a way to come back without them?
Peorth: Keiichi, that is the stupidest thing I've ever heard!!!!! I might as well say mortals could live in space without air or maybe they can now survive without food or water
Keiichi: okay okay I get the point, but there was something living with you goddesses that has taught me something, the impossible is never really impossible and if there is even a possibility of hope than it can come true. I know its something silly to believe in but its something to hang on to...Peorth, even if Verthandi isn't Belldandy I just feel that I should help her, it feels so lonely being alone not remembering who you are and the one you love it's a painful thing and I feel that she shouldn't face it alone
Peorth: Keiichi...you are just why too stubborn but that also makes you way too kind. Keiichi I can't believe at the moment that she is Belldandy but I can see you're strongly going to help her with or without my consent so I'm going to help you too. I'm only afraid for you that's all
Keiichi: afraid about what?
Peorth: there must be a very good reason why Verthandi lost all her memories, whatever could have traumatized her enough...anyway do you really want to know what she has forgotten? Maybe its best that she carries this burden alone because what she has in her mind may cause you grief beyond imagination
Keiichi: and is this another one of your knowing facts?
Peorth: no this is a feeling, a bad one
Keiichi: you're just being paranoid again Peorth, but I appreciate your concern and thank you for understanding
Keiichi smiled at his wife and went back inside, Peorth sighed happily in contentment. However she still couldn't shake the dark feeling that Keiichi's kindness may split their love apart, their argument they just had was a sign of this, luckily it hadn't turned into anything too major.
Peorth: (but what if you are right Keiichi about everything, will I lose you forever?)
________________________________________________________________________
Keiichi walked back inside and was in for a great surprise...
Verthandi: eeeeekkkkk!!!
Keiichi: aaaahhhhhh!!! Oh, it's just you Verthandi
Verthandi: I heard some yelling and I came over and I saw, oh I'm so sorry!!!! I didn't mean to eavesdrop on you two, I swear I didn't hear anything!!!!
Keiichi: nah it's okay...don't worry everything's okay
Verthandi: I must be starting to be a bother for you
Keiichi: say nothing of it, I usually don't make a decision if I'm going to regret it later
Just then Peorth who was also coming back inside heard the two, but instead of interrupting stayed out of sight to eavesdrop on the two, I'm not spying on Keiichi Peroth thought, I'm just making sure he's okay.
Verthandi: but your wife is angry with you
Peorth: (you're darn right, she is)
Keiichi: I know she may sound stern
Peorth: ggrrr...
Keiichi: and untrusting at times...
Peorth: gggrrrrr...
Keiichi: almost even pigheaded too...
Peorth: GGGGRRRR...
Keiichi: I'm sorry did you hear something?
Verthandi: hear what?
Keiichi: never mind, anyway that's only her way of telling me that she cares for me and I love and respect her for that
Peorth: oh Keiichi, you are so going to get a special treat tonight, hee hee
Keiichi: everyone has their ways of showing that they care. Do you remember how your loved one showed how he cared?
Verthandi: no, it is still all a blur to me...
Keiichi: well you keep trying and maybe it will come back to you
Verthandi: Keiichi...
???: MORISATOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!
Keiichi/Peorth: AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!
An unsuspecting voice rang out from outside the courtyard it had shocked Keiichi into almost jumping into the ceiling and it caused Peorth to trip out of her hiding spot revealing herself to Keiichi and Verthandi.
Keiichi: oh no not him, oh hi Peorth, didn't see you there
Peorth: Keiichi I thought you told me that you firmly said no, what's HE doing here?
Keiichi shrugged and sighed
Keiichi: I guess he just doesn't get the message
Verthandi who had surprisingly not been affected by the booming voice spoke up.
Verthandi: who? Who's here?
Peorth: a demon that just won't die!!!!!
Keiichi: Peorth! No don't mind her, it's just an old friend of mine...
________________________________________________________________________
The three made their way to the courtyard where they were greeted by the seemingly inseparable duo Tamiya and Otaki.
Tamiya: Morisato!!! How youse doing?
Tamiya eyes then spotted Verthandi, a fierce fire roared in them as he stared darkly at Keiichi.
Tamiya: HOW DARES YOUSE CHEAT ON LADY PEORTH!!!!!
Keiichi: no wait!!! I can explain!!!!
Too late because within an instant Keiichi was on Tamiya's shoulders in his "Tamiya backbreaker special for cheaters".
Keiichi: Wait argh I really can ow explain
Tamiya: YOUSE EVEN PROMISED ME DAT YOUSE WILL TREAT HER RIGHT!!!!
Peorth: hey you big lug, LET GO OF MY KEIICHI!!!!!
The beauty instantly calmed the beast as little hearts appeared in his eyes.
Tamiya: yourse wish is my command
And Keiichi was dropped like a sack of patatos.
Keiichi: ooowww...
Peorth just simply sighed, how the big lug could still have a crush on her was beyond her.
Tamiya: sooo ifs Morisato is not cheatin' than who's dat girl?
Verthandi: my name is Verthandi, I'm staying with the Morisato's temporarily, its nice to meet you
Verthandi gave a graceful bow, causing Tamiya and Otaki to secretly hide back their pent up jealousy for Keiichi.
Tamiya: (gggggrrrrrr, even while married that damed Morisato still manages to get all da babes)
Meanwhile Keiichi had finally gotten up and was rubbing his sore back
Keiichi: look Tamiya, I know why you're here but my answer is still no
Tamiya: but Morisato!!!! Da Motorclub still needs ya
Otaki: we tried to get someone else but they're all amateurs and we can't afford to lose in the next big race.
Keiichi: need I remind you that I'm no longer part of the motor-club? Look don't get me wrong, I would like to work on it but I'm married now, I have a family to think of
Tamiya: but...
Peorth: listen, if Keiichi says no than the answer is no...
Verthandi: no to what?
Peorth: they want Keiichi to build an engine for their racer and as always are going to dump all the responsibilities on Keiichi
Verthandi: I think he should be honoured that they trust him so much that they are willing to part on him such an important task
Peorth: I know, but when he works on something he usually puts so much heart into it that he'll work himself to death that's why I convinced him to say no
Verthandi: you really love him a lot, don't you?
Peorth: yeah
Meanwhile...in quite a pathetic looking scene we see Tamiya and Otaki are now grovelling at Keiichi's knees (completely at his mercy).
Tamiya: PLEASE WESE REALLY NEED YOUR HELP!!!!
Keiichi: (man these two just won't give up, kinda makes me feel important though)
???: resorting to this? My my you two really are pathetic
Keiichi cringed he knew that voice yep it was Aoshima.
Tamiya: go away Toshiyuki wese are making a business deal with Morisato
Aoshima: a deal? Ha ha, sorry this is way too funny to make a comment about
Keiichi: Aoshima? Don't tell you two...
Otaki: yeah we challenged Aoshima
Tamiya: and da only way wese ever been able to beat da guy is wit youse help
Keiichi: sigh...look I don't know, HEY!!!!!!
Keiichi turned to see Aoshima handing a bouquet of flowers to his wife.
Aoshima: aaawww I see you are looking as lovely as ever, Lady Peorth
Peorth: ha ha thank you....(must resist urge to punch his arrogant face) I'll put these in water later
Keiichi: (a guy can only take so much!!!!) HEY QUIT HITTING ON MY WIFE!!!!
Aoshima: oh Keiichi I almost didn't see you there
Keiichi: gggrrrr
Aoshima: I'm not hitting on her, more like trying to show her what would have happened if she had chosen a winner like me
Peorth/Keiichi: sigh
Peorth: I'll have you know that Keiichi is ten times the man you'll ever be
Aoshima: oh really?
Peorth: why do you think he beat ya so many times?
Aoshima: THOSE WERE ALL FLUKES!!!!!
Aoshima realizing his yelling quickly regains his composure.
Aoshima: I mean if you are so confident of his abilities why don't you have him enter the race? If he wins I will leave and you'll never see me again
Keiichi: (I don't like this...he usually doesn't say things like this without a reasoning for it)
Aoshima: however if I win...how about you'll go out with me?
Peorth: deal
Keiichi: WHAT??!!! HEY I didn't agree to anything!!!! Besides you just can't simply go out with Peorth!!! She's a married woman if you didn't realize
Aoshima: last time I checked there was nothing wrong with a married woman accepting dates. Just think of it as her getting the chance to see other people
Verthandi: well I don't think that will happen because Keiichi will win for sure
Verthandi who had kept quiet up till now was impressed by Peorth's confidence and trust she had for Keiichi and just had to break her silence by giving her support for him as well. Keiichi gave her a smile in appreciation; Aoshima on the other hand was instantly smitten.
Aoshima: (that face, those beautiful eyes and that silky looking hair. Can there truly be another woman who can rival Peorth and Belldandy's beauty? Keiichi doesn't live with mortals, he lives with goddesses that's for sure) why hello, another goddess among women, what is your name, pretty flower?
Verthandi: my name is Verthandi and I do not like the way you are treating Keiichi
Aoshima: Keiichi is only getting what he deserves, maybe later I'll see you at the finish line too but for now here is a small token to compliment your beauty
Aoshima handed Verthandi another bouquet causing Keiichi to wonder where the heck did he get all of them all.
Verthandi: oh, why thank you
Verthandi gratefully accepted them and gave a small smile.
Aoshima: now where did such a beautiful woman like you come from?
Verthandi: I do not know, that's why I'm staying with Keiichi and his wife so they can help me find out who I am
Aoshima: you do not know? That is quite a pity but you won't learn anything hanging around that loser. I have connections to the proper people so why don't you forget him and come with me?
Keiichi: Now that's enough!!!!! Now you are trying to take advantage of a girl with amnesia? Seriously you make me want to puke
Aoshima: why do you care? You are already the married one
Keiichi: well you are trying to break us up I feel that I am entitled to an opinion
Verthandi: well I appreciate your offer but I must sadly decline, I feel that Keiichi will help me enough I hope you don't take offence
Aoshima cursed Keiichi within his head but covered it with a fake smile
Aoshima: no not at all, but if you feel you should ever change your mind...
And after doing his daily worth of taunting, began to walk away.
Aoshima: (after the race is over, Peorth will be filing divorce papers and this new Verthandi will also get to see how great I am. This is all working out perfectly for me, heaven is truly smiling at me)
Tamiya: great Morisato!!!!! Wese see you at da race!!!! Wese hope youse kick Aoshima's tail
Ands Tamiya and Otaki were gone. Leaving a very perplexed Keiichi...
Keiichi: okay what just happened?
Peorth: never mind!!! You are going to enter that race and you are going to win
Keiichi: but I thought you didn't want me to race?
Peorth: never mind what I said before, you are needed now!!! You will win not for just my honor but for yours as well besides you've beaten that jerk before remember? I know you can do it this time
Keiichi: do you really think so?
Peorth: I know so
Keiichi: well if I have you for my support I can't lose
Verthandi: there's just one problem
Keiichi: what's that?
Verthandi: didn't you mention before that the engine isn't even built yet?
Keiichi's bright mood was suddenly broken as he in quite an anime fashion, fell down in a state of shock.
Keiichi: oh noooo...I'm doomed!!!!!
Peorth: uumm maybe after a nice dinner, you can solve this problem?
________________________________________________________________________
Keiichi scribbled furiously a possible design of the engine on the dinner table it was perfect! With a design like this it would allow the car to reach top speed but unfortunately due to its flimsy design would probably burn up and burst into flames. Keiichi angrily crumpled up the useless piece of paper to join an additional pile of failed designs.
Verthandi: keep trying you'll get it!!!
Keiichi smiled at the girl sitting next to him, occasionally offering words of encouragement and begun to work on a new design, his pencil was like a paintbrush on a canvas as he began to sketch a new design.
Verthandi: Peorth was right
Keiichi: about what? Hmmm maybe I can do this?
Verthandi: you put so much heart into this
Keiichi: well someone once taught me that when you do something you put everything you have inside on your work: every detail, every line and the good memories of the people you are doing this for. Peorth placed so much trust for me I'm not going to let her down
Verthandi: this someone, would that be Belldandy?
Keiichi: how'd you know?
Verthandi: I remember when you mentioned her name, you thought I was her...she seems very important to you
Keiichi: yeah, she was the first woman I ever fell in love with...when I was with her I always felt so safe, felt like I could do anything and when she was in that tragic accident, I felt so alone, so lost I began to believe that life wasn't worth living anymore. I almost considered ending it all...but Peorth was there and stuck by my side, I told her many times to go away but she didn't, Peorth saved my life before it was all over. There's nothing I can do to ever repay her for that , the only thing I can do to help out is by staying by her side
Verthandi: that is so romantic, I hope I can find my special someone...aaaahhhh!!!!
Suddenly Verthandi gripped her chest in a seemingly unbearable pain.
Verthandi: aaahhhhh, my my heart
Keiichi: Verthandi? VERTHANDI?!!!
Keiichi went to check on Verthandi but in the process accidentally cut his finger on his table but he ignored it to help her.
Verthandi: don't worry, this happens from time to time...puff puff, but the pain always goes away.
Keiichi: are you okay?
Verthandi: I'll be fine like I said this isn't the first time
Keiichi: do you need to see a doctor?
Verthandi: no no, it's nothing really! It rarely ever happens and when it does it only lasts a minute
Keiichi: are you sure? Like those pains could get worse
Verthandi: no it never does
Keiichi: (she doesn't want me to worry about her just like Belldandy) alright but if it continues to happen, I'm going to take you to a doctor, okay?
Verthandi: fine
Keiichi: HEY!!!!!! (
Verthandi: what?
Keiichi: this design!!! It's absolutely perfect!!! A powerful combination of speed and endurance, wow Verthandi talking to you must have subconsciously allowed me to come up with this, Verthandi thank you
Verthandi: I should not take any credit for I didn't do anything
Keiichi: well after dinner, I should be able to should be able to start building it
Verthandi: I'll go help Peorth and the rest, why don't you go wash up?
Keiichi: okay
________________________________________________________________________
Peorth mercilessly was cutting the vegetables into finely diced pieces. It was obvious she was in a foul mood.
Urd: you seem tensed, Peorth
Peorth: TENSED??!! I'M PERFECTLY CALM!!!! CAN'T YOU SEE IT??!! WHAT MAKES YOU THINK I'M TENSED??!!!
Urd: geez...
Peorth: I'm sorry, you're right...it's just what has happened today, it's way too much I can bear
Urd: it's about this Verthandi isn't it?
Peorth: yeah I guess so, Keiichi is really warming up to her
Urd: you two have been married for two years, he's passed any test in proving his love for you. You must be more afraid of something else than this girl simply stealing him from you
Peorth:...
Urd: tell me what are you afraid of?
Peorth: Urd, he's convinced himself that Verthandi is Belldandy
Urd: I thought something like that
Peorth: and aren't you even the slightest bit worried? He is trying to believe his own lie, trying to give himself false hope for something that cannot be.
Urd: really? Or are you more afraid that she really is Belldandy and things will go back to normal when she regains her memory?
Peorth: NO!!!! I mean Keiichi's happiness is my primary concern...I want Belldandy back as much as he does but that cannot happen I just don't want Keiichi to get hurt when he learns the truth
Urd: the truth...
Peorth: Urd don't tell me you're actually believing this
Urd: I don't know myself but it's just a feeling. I know that right now she seems like a mortal girl but maybe there is something more? Maybe I'll have Yggdrasil check in on this, if that girl is Belldandy Yggdrasil will know
Peorth: yes that is an excellent idea Urd, well in the meantime would you like to help me serve dinner?
Urd: dinner? You mean that stuff in the pot?
Peorth: yeah
Urd: uumm sure okay...
Just then Verthandi entered the kitchen
Verthandi: hello, do you need any help?
Urd: yeah!!! Errrr Verthandi why don't you help Peorth? I've got something I'd want to say to Keiichi
Verthandi: okay
Urd quickly made a hasty retreat
Verthandi: hhhhmmm is that dinner?
Peorth: yeah, it's my famous Peorth Soup Surprise
Verthandi took a spoon and took a sip
Verthandi: it's quite good
Peorth: thank you, between you and me cooking has always been a specialty of mine HA HA HA (...well at least I think it is)
Verthandi: it's just needs a few things, do you mind?
Peorth: sure go ahead (like it needs it, heh heh)
Later at the dinner table everyone had gathered round.
Peorth: well eat up, there's plenty for seconds
Skuld: are you sure this is food or is it motor oil?
Peorth: HEY!!!!!
Skuld: well I absolutely refuse to eat unless I find out if it's actually edible or not
Peorth: fine you lousy brat, Urd?
Urd: well I'm on this very strict diet that I can't eat...uuummm a certain types of liquids, so sorry
Peorth:...
Keiichi: don't worry dear I'll try some
Peorth: thank you Keiichi at LEAST some people are considerate
Keiichi: heh heh yeah (this may not be one of my better ideas)
Keiichi dunk his spoon in the slimy liquid and put it into his mouth however this time he was pleasantly surprised.
Keiichi: mmmmmm this is great!!!!! You've really surpassed yourself this time Peorth
Peorth: what do you mean?
Peorth took a spoonful herself it was the most delicious thing she had ever tasted, she noticed that Skuld and Urd were eating it too.
Keiichi: so what did you make this time Peorth?
Peorth: well it's an old recipe and...
Verthandi: you added some new changes to it this time haven't you Peorth? Congratulations
Peorth: (she refuses to take any recognition for this, she's giving me all the credit...Verthandi, thank you)
Urd: well thanks for dinner but me and Skuld have got to be leaving
Skuld: we do? But I want to...
Urd: maybe another time Skuld but right now we have other things to tend to
Skuld: why are you always treating me like a kid, Urd!!!!!!
________________________________________________________________________
Later that night...Urd and Skuld had left, Verthandi was shown to a room it would seem like everyone and everything was asleep for the night all except...
Peorth: you've been working for hours are you sure you don't want to turn it in for the night?
Keiichi: no way, I almost halfway done
Peorth: but don't strain yourself, you still are just human Keiichi
Keiichi: no prob, I feel if I can get as much as I can done now, the less I have to do later before the race.
Peorth: but isn't there anything I can get you Keiichi?
Keiichi: a cold drink would be nice
Peorth: sure thing
Keiichi: and please try not to add anything into it
Peorth: would I look like someone who'd do that? Don't answer that...
Keiichi worked for a few more seconds when a hand offered him a cold drink
Keiichi: aw thanks Peorth, that was...
Keiichi accepted the drink and was mildly surprised that it was Verthandi who had given him the drink.
Keiichi: oh hi Verthandi
Verthandi: I thought you might have been thirsty
Keiichi: thank you that is very considerate of you
Verthandi: so how is it going?
Keiichi: well let's put it this way, it is so much easier to design something than to actually build it
Verthandi: that bad, huh?
Keiichi: don't worry I've got time till the actual race I just want to finish as much as I can right now
Verthandi: you truly are amazing with that spirit and determination that you have Keiichi
Keiichi: well I try, oh and thank you
Verthandi: for what?
Keiichi: for dinner of course, Peorth tries really hard I know but let's just face it I know not even her standards could have improved THAT much
Verthandi: she did make dinner, all I did was just added a few things
Keiichi: well I guess I'm really lucky I've got two cooks in this place...argh darn
Verthandi: oh what is it?
Keiichi: nothing, I just dropped something
Verthandi: oh let me get it
Keiichi and Verthandi reached down at the exact same moment and their hands touched.
Verthandi: oh
Verthandi began to blush
Keiichi: Verthandi what is it?
Verthandi: Keiichi...
Keiichi looked up and felt he could get lost in those soulful eyes of hers, he couldn't help himself she was really beautiful. Keiichi could feel their faces were a little close for comfort but neither of them seemed to mind. Keiichi could feel his face moving closer to her's as if an invisible force was pushing him to her.
Keiichi: (Verthandi...it's only natural that I'd feel this way about her, like she is Belldandy right? Well at least I think she is but Peorth...what will happen to her? Even if she was Belldandy can I just simply cast her aside? No this isn't right!!!!)
Keiichi stopped himself and shook his head.
Keiichi: no, I'm sorry Verthandi...I just don't know what came over me just now
Verthandi: Keiichi, I'm sorry....oh
Fire seemed to strike Verthandi as she gripped her chest again.
Verthandi: it's happening again...my heart!
Keiichi: Verthandi? Huh?
Verthandi got up and ran off not wanting Keiichi to see her in pain, Keiichi tried to follow her but suddenly he could feel his engine getting really hot.
Keiichi: huh? What the heck is going on?
That was all Keiichi could say before it unexpectedly exploded, the blast hit Keiichi as he struck a wall. Keiichi could feel the world around him blackening as the last thing he was able to see was his concerned wife dropping everything she was carrying and running up to him screaming his name.
________________________________________________________________________
You have forgotten me...
Keiichi: (no that's not true!!!!)
Than how would you explain your behavior? I thought you said you loved me
Keiichi: (but I do, more than anything in this world)
I thought that was true, but now I see your words are nothing but lies!!!!
Keiichi: (no)
I can no longer trust you but I wonder when it's all over, will your feelings mean anything?
Keiichi: (please you must believe me, I do love you please don't leave, what do you mean when it's all over?)
Keiichi...it's time to wake up now
Keiichi: (huh?)
Keiichi...please you must wake up!!! Keiichi? KEIICHI!!!!
Keiichi's eyes opened and he was greeted by the sight of his wife, she smiled at him just relived that he was okay, her eyes were red as if she had been crying (maybe she had) and her smile seemed to renew Keiichi's stamina as he began to get up. He noticed it was the next morning and the sun had come out, however as he moved forward he could feel Peorth push him back.
Peorth: no please, just rest
Keiichi: don't really I'm ow fine
Peorth looked at him like she wasn't convinced.
Peorth: Keiichi, what happened?
Keiichi: dunno, I was talking to Verthandi, she seemed to be suffering from a chest pain, next thing I knew the engine just blew on me. Heh I really have to thank Skuld, I've gotten so used to being blown up
Peorth: Keiichi don't kid around!!! I'm trying to be serious. Sigh, this is all my fault, why did I let my blind pride get the better of me? I shouldn't have volunteered you without having your consent. Keiichi why don't we just forfeit and let Aoshima win the bet
Keiichi: what? And simply walk away with my tail between my legs as that scumbag tries to take advantage of you? I don't think so, if I'm going to go down I'm going to go down fighting just like my beautiful wife would have wanted me to do
Peorth: Keiichi...ha ha, I just can't stop you can I?
Keiichi: don't even try
Peorth: all right but Keiichi try not to strain yourself, just pace it okay?
Keiichi: I will, say how much of the engine actually survived?
Peorth: I'm sorry but the explosion totalled it
Keiichi: I was afraid of that, guess I'm going to have to start from scratch
Keiichi got up and left and was soon hard at work again, Peorth watched him from the distance not being able to help but smile. He could hear footsteps behind her as she knew Verthandi was there too.
Verthandi: Keiichi!!!!
Peorth: no Verthandi, you cannot stop him
Verthandi: what type of wife are you?!! You know that he's hurt and yet you let him continue to work?
That remark was like a slap to the face even though she knew it wasn't meant to be one and Verthandi was just showing her concern for Keiichi's safety.
Peorth: I know all that, but when Keiichi has started something he'll continue to follow his heart until he's finished it. Nothing and no one can stop him, not even me...besides I don't even want to
Verthandi: but why?
Peorth: when Keiichi follows his heart he shows a type of happiness that so few can understand. It is than he feels complete and feels alive...I do not wish to stop Keiichi when he is happy for his happiness is my happiness as well. All I can do, is watch him fulfil his dreams and hopefully be a part of it too
Verthandi: I think I'm beginning to understand, Peorth I'm sorry
Peorth: don't be it's alright...(but why do I feel that you were involved with the little "accident" Keiichi had yesterday? If you dare to even try to hurt Keiichi I will not hesitate to kill you)
The following week went by with no problems, as Keiichi was all ready for the day of the race. However was he truly ready for what was in store for him? Only time can tell...
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Man that was longer than I thought, but this chapter is finished!!!! ( Just want to say a few things...
Yeah I probably made it way too obvious of who Verthandi is but just bear with me okay? Something is going to lead into this but I don't want to give anything away
If I have offended any Aoshima or Tamiya fans with my personal portrayal of them, well I'm sorry cause they also just so happen to be my two LEAST favorite characters in the Ah My Goddess! universe. I just so enjoy writing about their stupidity.
Did I make Peorth a little out of character? I'm really trying to avoid turning her into a Belldandy clone, honest -_-;;
The next chapter will be one taking place in the past, be sure to catch it
Well see you next time!