Level 6: The True Feelings of Hikaru Shidou, the Magic Knight
"No! Fuu!" Ferio cried in dismay as the young blond fell unconscious onto the floor. He, Lafarga and Caldina rushed to her aid, Ferio picking her upper body up and cradling her against himself. "Fuu! Fuu, wake up!" Presea rushed to them with a cold cloth, and gently laid it on Fuu's forehead. Clef and Ascot, both holding an end of the book in their hands, looked from Fuu back to the pages of the book, trying to figure out what had caused her to collapse.
"Could it have something to do with what's happening in the book?" Ascot asked, looking to Clef. Clef shook his head in doubt.
"I can't imagine how. . ."
"But, Clef, listen to this: 'The Priestess of Suzaku virtuously ran to the aid of her steed, swatting the insects in attempt to cause them to flee. In the midst of her task, the hooves of the horse reared up and mercilessly slammed into her side, followed by a second to her face. The Priestess fell back, trying to regain the feeling in her body. Having her horse flee, and the mysterious attacker closing in on her, she finally remembered the sword granted to her from her celestial warrior. Gathering her strength she drew the sword, using it as her crutch to stand. There she recited her vow, and charged at the assassin. However, he thought much quicker than she acted, and sent his most deadly of insects after her, its stinger piercing her shoulder. . .'" Ascot stopped reading at that point, looking over to the others surrounding Fuu, who were listening intently. Ferio trembled violently.
"Everything. . . that happened in that part of the story. . . just happened to Fuu. . . just like that. . . " he breathed, looking down to her face, wincing at the sight of her pain.
"But. . . that can't be possible. . ." Clef reasoned, then gasped when he saw Fuu's shoulder. "Look!" he pointed to her shoulder, and the others turned to see blood seeping through her uniform. Ferio, in panic, tore Fuu's uniform vest from her, followed by tearing open her white dress shirt to examine the wound. Blood trickled down her shoulder, and he vainly tried to stop it by using a torn piece of his cloak he ripped.
"What can we do now?" Ferio asked worriedly, pressing firmly against the wound with one hand, the other brushing against Fuu's pale cheek. Clef held his large staff before him, closing his eyes. A pale glow emitted from the orb atop the rod, followed by a swirling mist of energy. It encircled Fuu, and within a few seconds the mist faded away, as did the glowing from the staff. Clef opened his eyes, and shook his head sadly.
"It's no good. . .even my magic cannot help her wound. It is, somehow, very possible this book is causing all of this. . ." Clef admitted reluctantly. Presea got up from her place next to Ferio and walked over to Ascot, nodding to him and taking the book into her arms, reading some of it.
"'The assassin approached the Priestess of Suzaku, apologizing for his actions as he drew a dagger from his belt,'" she started, and the others gasped, for fear of what was about to happen to Hikaru, and as a result, to Fuu as well, "'and as he rose it above his head, his attempt was halted by a mysterious monk grabbed his wrist, and thrust him to the ground next to the fallen maiden. The monk told the assassin how important the Priestess was, and proceeded to knock the assassin unconscious. He took the Priestess to the nearest village, and met up with a famous doctor, who agreed to help the young girl. He discovered the wound the Priestess suffered also allowed a deadly venom to seep into her blood, and it was inevitable that the Priestess would die if the venom was not removed soon. . .'" Tears welled in Ferio's eyes as he realized the serious danger both Hikaru and his beloved Fuu were in.
"Master Mage Clef, is there anything I can do? Anything at all?" he begged, looking at Clef. Clef sorrowfully looked back at him.
"I am sorry, Ferio. . . but there is nothing I think we can do for Fuu or Hikaru. . ."
"Please Master Mage! I have to save her! I can't lose Fuu!" Ferio cried desperately. "I can't stand the thought of being without her again. . . please, we have to think of something!" Presea read on, then looked to Ferio.
"Wait, Ferio, listen to this: 'The doctor began immediately to heal the Priestess. He placed his hand over her, and a marking appeared in his palm, pouring mounds of healing energy into her body. Within only a few moments, the Priestess-'" Presea stopped suddenly as an emerald light surrounded Fuu, and just as it happened to Hikaru, so did it happen to her. Everyone gawked at the sight, and Presea looked back in the book. ". . . 'the wound the Priestess received disappeared as the light faded, and the doctor weakly dropped his arm, having used most of his energy to remove the poison from her blood. . .'" Presea stopped at that point, and they all looked hopefully at Fuu. Much to their delight, Fuu's eyes fluttered open, and she looked around to all of the eyes fixed on her.
"What. . . what has happened?" she asked confused as ever. Ferio smiled widely and lifted her up, pulling her into a tight hug.
"Oh, Fuu. . . I was so afraid I was going to lose you. . ." he breathed into her hair, and Fuu found herself completely lost, but she returned his hug.
"Silly, you won't ever lose me," she said softly, and everyone crowded around her, patting her shoulder and relieved that she was all right.
"Let's just hope Hikaru will recover just as quickly," Clef said, and everyone nodded in agreement. All they could do was wait.
~*~*~*~
The day passed slowly for poor Umi; it's not like there was anything exciting to do in a prison cell. But she was more aggravated then bored. Three times that morning she tried to go to sleep, but each time just before she did a guard banged on her cell, presenting Nakago. He'd ask her if she had reconsidered, and each time Umi would reply simply by sticking her tongue out at him. That only made him grin, and silently walk away with the guard. She didn't bother trying to sleep after that; she knew he'd be back.
"I'm so tired, and bored, and hungry, and. . ." Umi could have kept the list going, but just talking seemed to zap her remaining energy. So she just surveyed the other prisoners, finding most of them sleeping or just sitting there inactive. 'If only that guy would come back. . .'
Umi blinked several times as a strange clicking noise echoed in the prison hall. She crinkled her nose as a little cry accompanied the clicking. Yet it wasn't exactly a cry. . .
"Wee! Wee! Wee!" rant throughout the hall. Umi jumped up from her spot and marched over to the front of the cell, grabbing the bars and peaking out. She screeched when someone flew by, clacking something against the bars.
"HEY!" she bellowed, glaring after him and waving her fist, "whaddya think you're-AH!" there the person came again, still yelling 'wee' as he went. Umi's face darkened and she pursed her lips. Then she was struck with an idea. Knowing the guy would most likely return, she eagerly awaited. Seconds later she heard the annoying clicking, and using her judgment she stuck her foot out between the bars only a split second before he appeared.
"YOW!" he cried as he tumbled down in front of her cell. Standing immediately, he didn't seem phased, and continued his rounds. Umi's jaw dropped. It was like he didn't even realize what happened to him. HE just kept going and going, back and forth. Umi was utterly stupefied at the fact this guy could be so dense. Narrowing her eyes, she clenched her fists tightly around the bars and shouted,
"Hey, buddy! STOP FOR A SECOND!" and to her incredulity, it actually caught his attention. He skidded to a stop, looking around hysterically for the person who noticed him. He was acting like he'd just been caught stealing something. Finally, when he focused at the furious blue-haired girl, he merely stared at her, a completely blank expression on his face. Umi huffed, loosening her ghost-white fingers from their death grip on the bars. "Now," she began, but gasped when she got a good look at him, "it. . . it's you?" the boy shifted uncomfortably back and forth, eyeing her shyly.
"Pardon me?" he asked, twisting his upper body side to side like a little child. Umi rubbed her eyes, and then looked at him.
'Yep, that's definitely him,' she thought, frowning, 'but he looks a little younger now. . . and why's he acting like this? A little too silly to be entertaining.' When the boy assumed she wasn't interested in him anymore, he resumed once again his escapade of running back and forth, clacking something against the prison bars. Umi moaned and slumped to her knees, anime tears creating a waterfall down her face, "Not again. . ."
She leapt up, opening her mouth to call him, but came to the unfortunate conclusion that she forgot his name. This presented a problem for her since now she couldn't get his attention by calling his name. "Hey! . . . Uh. . . um. . ." thinking quickly, she blurted, "Mitsubishi!" Again, she caught his attention, much quicker this time, and was delighted when he came trudging to her cell. He blinked, and then she did. Placing a hand on the back of his neck, sheepishly looking at the ground, he mumbled to her.
"Th-that's. . . Amiboshi, actually." Umi's face transformed a shade of scarlet. She got ready to apologize when Amiboshi perked up. "But that's okay, 'cause I'm not Amiboshi anyways." Umi fell over, her leg twitching in the air for a second, and then she was right back up.
"Then who are you?" she asked, observing him, "you look just like him." Suddenly he became nervous, fidgeting around while scratching the back of his head. Umi leaned in close, waiting for him to answer. She screeched when he shoved four fingers in her face and blurted,
"I'mKatyandI'mfouw!" in a high pitched, child-like tone. Umi arched a brow.
"Would you mind talking like a normal human being?" she requested while pushing his hand away with her index finger. He swallowed hard; starting to sweat as his face flushed and he realized he couldn't get away with this anymore.
". . . Suboshi. My name is Suboshi."
"Then, are you related to Amiboshi somehow?"
"Yeah, he's my twin brother. See the resemblance?" he remarked sarcastically, rolling his eyes. Umi huffed and let it go.
"Why do you have his flute?"
"I. . ." he was left without an excuse. Well, one he was willing to give, anyways. Umi scrunched up her face; this guy seemed so. . . in all honesty stupid. That realization made her inwardly grin. If this guy was as ignorant as he looked, she would find him to be quite useful. Suboshi eyed her awkwardly, a pleading expression in his now large eyes. "You won't tell, will you?"
A devious grin spread across her face as a genius scheme formed in her head. 'A most perfect opportunity,' she thought, and then suddenly feigned a look of hurt. "Oh, of course not! I wouldn't even think of it! Do I look like a person who would do such a thing?" she saw him open his mouth to say something, but quickly continued, " But, since I AM doing this favor for you, maybe you could. . . help me out in return?" she batted her eye lashes, smiling sweetly.
"Wh-what do you want?" he hesitantly asked. Umi pretended to look thoughtful.
"Oh, nothing special or anything.but, I want you to let me outta here. That's simple, right?" Suboshi gulped, loosening the collar of his tunic, and reluctantly shook his head.
"I-I want to help you, but if you're in the dungeon, you must be in here for a reason. We're forbidden to even talk with prisoners like I'm doing now, much less set them free without the emperor's consent," he explained, hanging his head. Umi cursed the emperor under her breath.
'Man, maybe this won't be as easy as I thought," she speculated, 'okay, then it's time for plan B.' Getting the saddest thought she could into her head, she forced pretend tears to spill down her cheeks. "You just don't understand!"
"Huh?" Suboshi looked back up at her, and jumped at the sight of her crying. "Wh-what. . . ?"
"At first I had a little disagreement about becoming the Priestess," she wailed, turning away and covering her face with her arm dramatically to hide her grin, "but now I've changed my mind! I said I'd become the Priestess, yet those mean old guards refuse to release me to let me tell the emperor of my decision! Oh, what a world this has become!" Suboshi's jaw dropped, and he slammed himself against the bars of the cell.
"Y-you're the Priestess of Seiryuu?!" he cried, and Umi turned to him again.
"Uh. . . yeah, that's it! But they won't let me out. . . won't you please let me out and take me to see the emperor? Surely he'll listen to me rather than these heartless guards." Suboshi seemed hesitant, contemplating whether or not this was such a good idea.
"I suppose if it's for the Priestess. . ." he muttered as he crossed over to a sleeping guard. Not wanting to wake him, he leaned forward to grab the keys, but hopped back when the guard turned onto his side, the cell keys falling on the ground beneath him. He knew his hands were too big to reach under and get them, and he tapped his brother's flute on his head while trying to think of what to do. He stopped tapping and looked at the flute, grinning. Getting on all fours, he slid the flute underneath the guard's arm, and gingerly nudged the keys toward himself. With a little more forceful push, the keys slid right in front of him. He smiled widely and went to pick them up, but found that he made too much noise in doing so. So, having no other choice he bent down and started pushing the keys across the ground with his nose. Umi had to cover her mouth to keep from laughing too hard at his childishness. When he was far enough away from the guard, he snatched the keys up and smiled triumphantly, showing them to Umi. Umi was still having a hard time not laughing at his naivety. She didn't want to upset him now that she was so close, of course. So, she humbly bowed her head.
"Thank you very much, now please let me out?" she pleaded, gripping the bars in anticipation. Suboshi, taking a glance to his left and right, stealthily placed the key in the lock, turned it, and granted Umi her freedom. Umi took one step out and squealed, giddy that she was finally out of her cell. Suboshi grinned and stepped back, gesturing toward the door down the hall.
"Shall we go? I'm sure the emperor will be so pleased to hear you've changed your mind!" Umi stopped her little victory dance she had begun and looked at him.
"You know.you're right, I have changed my mind!" she chibified and dashed down the hall. "Give the emperor my regards! See ya!"
Suboshi gapped after her, then lifted his jaw and raced after her. "Hey! You tricked me! Get back here!" he cried pathetically, whirling his brother's flute in the air over his head.
~*~*~*~
Mitsukake busily prepared his horse and cart, filling it with necessities and taking the time to set a comfortable place to lay Hikaru. It was late morning by the time Mitsukake slid his arm across his forehead to remove the dripping sweat, and turned to find Chichiri exiting the home of the young woman, holding Hikaru in his arms. Mitsukake gestured to the cart, and Chichiri proceeded to carry Hikaru over, hop into the cart, and lay her gently on a spread blanket. Once situating her in a seemingly comfortable position, Chichiri turned to Mitsukake.
"Well, are we ready to go?" he asked, and Mitsukake nodded his head.
"Yes, I believe I've packed everything we'll need. You said this should only take us until mid-afternoon, correct?"
"Yeah, I know a shortcut route, ya know," Chichiri responded, and took a seat at Hikaru's side. Mitsukake seated himself in the front of the cart, picking up the reigns. He turned to the young woman and bid her farewell with a small wave. Before leaving, however, he tossed her a small bottle, saying,
"Give him one spoonful of this every evening, and he'll be cured in no time." The woman smiled gratefully and waved.
"Thank you so much, doctor! May the gods watch over you on your travels!" she cried, and watched as he rode off down the rode toward the entrance of the village. Slowly she brought her arm down, resting her hand against her chest, "And may you keep that young girl safe. . ."
The sweltering heat of the midday sun caused beads of sweat to drip down Mitsukake's tired face. It had been hours since they began their travel, and most of their water was gone by this time. He turned to look behind him into the small window of his cart, seeing Chichiri watching over Hikaru faithfully. Mitsukake couldn't help but smile, seeing the devotion his old friend gave to another. He just wished Chichiri would care about himself just as much as he cared for others.
Shaking his head, Mistukake called into the cart, "Hey 'Chiri, do we have any water left?"
"Just one more canteen, ya know," Chichiri answered, and reached across Hikaru to pick up the canteen, "but here ya go!" He tossed it outside the small window and into Mitsukake's hand. Mitsukake took a small drink of the water, relieved to feel the cold liquid moisten his throat, then tossed it back to Chichiri. At the instant Mitsukake wasn't watching the road, his horses became panicked suddenly and were drawn to a halt. Mitsukake quickly turned to see what was going on, and saw just ahead two carts that had apparently been in a collision, and one of them, piled with hay, was set on fire. Screams could be heard from a few patrons surrounding the carts. Mitsukake leapt from the cart, and, followed by Chichiri, ran to the site.
An old couple grasped onto each other, the woman shrieking in fear, seeing that someone still remained in the smoldering cart. Mitsukake and Chichiri ran up next to them, searching to find a small boy stuck beneath the burning cloth cover that was used as a top for the cart. Chichiri turned to Mitsukake, then to the boy, who had suddenly fainted from the intense smoke of the fire. He turned back to Mitsukake, nodded, and faced the cart, focusing his energy. Bringing his right hand before his face, index and middle finger erect, he released a wave of chi to bring the fire to nothing but ashes.
The fire down and the smoke drifting away, Mitsukake rushed into the pile of rubble to retrieve the boy, carrying him gently in his arms to safety. The old couple scurried over to Mitsukake, blessing him and thanking him profusely. Mitsukake stared down at the little boy in his arms, a fatherly concern apparent in his eyes. He ran his thumb nimbly over the boy's pale face, removing some of the soot and ash that covered it. The boy coughed, and slowly opened his bright, hazel eyes. His matted, long blond hair clung in clumps from the ash, and the boy shook his head to rid him of it, causing the ash to fly in his face and make him sneeze.
Mitsukake chuckled affectionately, gently placing the boy in the old woman's arms. "He should be just fine, just needs to be cleaned up a little." The couple thanked him again, cradling the boy and thanking the gods that he was all right. Mitsukake turned to Chichiri.
"We've been set back a little, ya know. We won't arrive until sunset at this rate," he informed, looking up to the sky to see the position of the sun.
"It was worth it, though," Mitsukake responded, looking back to the happy family reunited. Chichiri nodded in agreement, and ran off to get back in their cart to check on Hikaru. Mitsukake sighed, envious of the happy family. 'Shouka and I could have had that once. . .' he thought sadly, but shook it out of his mind and returned to the cart himself, quickly getting them on their way.
They traveled for hours, which went by uneventfully. Finally, when the sun was beginning to set, Chichiri announced to Mitsukake that they'd entered the forest where Hikaru's two companions were waiting. It was well met, since they'd pretty much run out of supplies by then. And, still, Hikaru had yet to wake up. They'd only gone a little ways into the forest when they heard a rustling above them in the canopy of the trees. Mitsukake slowed his stallions to a halt, and looked above him. No more than two seconds later did a figure jump down and bend into a fighting stance.
"You'd better not be here to mess with me 'cause I'm in NO mood right now!" Nuriko threatened, raising her arms in preparation to attack, if necessary.
Mitsukake raised his hand to signal he meant no harm. "Please, miss, we're not here to bring harm to anyone. By chance, have you been traveling with a young lady that went off on her own?" Nuriko's brow arched, and she suddenly smiled brightly. As she was about to respond, Hotohori's head popped out from the leaves just above Nuriko, looking around frantically.
"Hikaru?! Where is she?! I demand that she-ack!" Hotohori stopped mid- command before falling headfirst out of the tree's canopy, landing in the dirt, his upper body buried. His leg twitched twice, and Nuriko sighed, walking over and yanking him from the ground, setting him down and brushing him off quickly.
"Yes, well," Mitsukake started, clearing his throat, "my partner actually saved the young girl's life from an assassin. Deadly venom was injected into her blood, but I was able to remove it before it caused too much damage. She's still resting at this moment, but she should be just fine," he explained to soothe their worries, and Nuriko and Hotohori both sighed in relief simultaneously.
"May I see her?" Hotohori requested, advancing to the tall doctor with a hopeful gaze. Mitsukake nodded, leading him to the back of the cart, gesturing for Hotohori to go inside. He stepped up, entering the cart and immediately falling to Hikaru's side.
He gently lifted her into his arm, holding her tenderly. "Thank the gods that you're alright. . ." Hotohori breathed against her hair, finding his hands trembling against her form. He glanced around briefly, a brow arching. "Didn't you say you were traveling with another. . . ?" he asked curiously, turning to Mitsukake. Mitsukake peeked inside, and a trace of confusion crossed his face.
"Well, he was here. . ." he claimed, unable to figure out where Chichiri could have gone. "Perhaps he had other business to tend to." Shrugging, he hopped inside the cart himself, offering to help lift Hikaru out of the cart. Hotohori was skeptical, treating her as fragile china, fearing she'd shatter if they even moved her. Mitsukake assured him that she would be just fine, and Hotohori reluctantly allowed him to remove her from the cart. With that, Mitsukake insisted they start a campfire and prepare blankets for the night, and soft bedding especially for Hikaru until she was fully recovered.
"Oh! Doctor!" Nuriko cried suddenly, rushing to his side. "Please, his highness has been injured earlier! Won't you please do something to heal him? I'm afraid his wounds may be deep. . ." her voice trailed, and Mitsukake's brow raised in slight astonishment.
"This man. . . is the emperor? Of Konan?" he inquired, looking over toward Hotohori, who was at Hikaru's side faithfully. Then, when looking back to Nuriko, he caught the nod she gave him. "Well, I am afraid I can do little right now. . . tomorrow, however, I will be able to heal him properly." Nuriko didn't seem to understand what he meant, but decided it didn't matter, as long as his highness was healed somehow. Mitsukake approached Hotohori, kneeling beside him and explained that he would like to check him and his wounds.
"No, thank you, I don't believe that will be necessary," Hotohori explained, but Nuriko was right up next to him, a scowl upon her pretty face.
"Highness! You've been injured, and he's a doctor! Let him take care of you!" she practically demanded, her eyes burning with persistence. Hotohori sighed in defeat, and nodded toward Mitsukake.
"Please remove your tunic so I may inspect the wound more closely," he instructed, gesturing toward his shoulder where the injury was most obvious. Hotohori obliged, baring his upper body for the doctor to observe. Mitsukake did a series of small tests, like mobility of the shoulder and arm. Slowly, Mitsukake removed the dressing in which Nuriko provided for Hotohori, and examined the condition of the lesion. With a small nod of his head, he went over to his cart, climbing inside to collect some medicinal herbs. Once finished, he returned to the emperor, and began a much more thorough treatment.
Wrapping it up in a fresh bandage after cleansing and treating it, Mitsukake smiled, patting Hotohori on the shoulder. "You should be fine now, highness," he said with much assurance. Hotohori smiled gratefully.
"Thank you. . ." his voice trailed, as he realized he didn't learn the doctor's name.
"Mitsukake," he chirped, saving Hotohori a bit of embarrassment.
"Yes, you have my gratitude, Mitsukake," Hotohori smiled once again, and turned to Nuriko to make sure she was satisfied now. Indeed, she had that smug grin plastered on her lips.
"It's my passion, to heal the sick and wounded, so it was my pleasure, highness," Mitsukake responded kindly, and then suddenly became stern. "Now, it is time to rest. Sleep is the best for recovery." The other two nodded in agreement, realizing their exhaustion. Mitsukake provided them with some spare blankets, as their horses were now gone due to the bandit attack.
All prepared for bed, they all spread themselves around the fire, to keep themselves warm during the chilly night. Hotohori lay close to Hikaru, propping himself up on his elbow, just watching her. Nuriko, obviously knowing she was defeated when it came to Hikaru, lay on the opposite side of the fire from the two. Mitsukake lay to the left of her, and just as he sat, he came to a realization. He began looking around, a rather perplexed look about his face. Both Hotohori and Nuriko shot him curious glances.
"How odd. . . where did Chichiri go?" he asked, more to himself than anything else. Hotohori and Nuriko's glance became even more puzzled with his question.
"Who?" Nuriko inquired, catching Mitsukake a little off guard. He looked at the both of them, and smiled sheepishly.
"Oh, yes, he was the companion I was with. . . I wonder where he went off to?" he responded, again having that thoughtful expression.
"You were traveling with another?" Hotohori asked. Mitsukake nodded slowly.
"Yes, he's the one who actually rescued the young girl from the bandit who assaulted her, and brought her to me to heal her."
"Then, should we see him, I owe him my deepest gratitude," Hotohori confirmed solemnly, glancing toward the crimson haired schoolgirl that lay next to him. Nuriko turned away, rolling her eyes in great irritation. If she had gotten hurt, would he treat her the same way? Or was the Priestess far more important than she?
With that thought in mind, Nuriko grumbled, her tone sour, "I'm going to bed." And with that, she lay down and attempted to get some sleep. Mitsukake chuckled, amused by her bitterness, though unsure of the cause of it.
"Yes, that would be wise."
Finally, as the fire was beginning to die out, all were asleep; except one. Hotohori still lay awake, occasionally casting a glance to Hikaru next to him. He couldn't sleep, worrying about her constantly, fearing that maybe. . . maybe she wouldn't wake. He wanted to see her when she woke, to comfort her since she probably has no idea what had happened to her. Hotohori had no idea how much time had gone by, but it had to be well into the night, when he heard stirring next to her. Instinctively he rose, glancing at Hikaru quickly. Indeed, she'd begun to rouse, lids slowly lifting to reveal those glazed, scarlet pools. Groggily she sat up, and immediately Hotohori was at her side, supporting her.
"Uhn. . . Hotohori?" she asked, dazed. So much had happened, and she had a slight headache.
"Oh, Hikaru. . . thank the heavens you're awake," he whispered soothingly, suddenly pulling her to him. Though a bit surprised, it was difficult for her to react to his embrace.
"Hotohori, what's going on?" she asked, shifting in his arms. He lifted her chin to look into his eyes, eyes revealing such worry and sadness. Her mouth went slightly agape as they brimmed with tears.
"I thought I was going to lose you. . ." he breathed, and Hikaru pulled from his arms to sit up straight. She needed to think a moment. Suddenly, she gasped as the memories of the assassin and his insects flooded back to her, and then everything was a blank after that.
"What happened to me, Hotohori?" she requested softly, keeping a focus on his eyes. He explained about Chichiri and Mitsukake, how she was healed and brought back to them by the kind doctor. "I. . . see. . ." she said slowly, her fingers clutching the fabric of her ebony skirt. Hotohori saw her become suddenly saddened, and he leaned close to her, placing a hand on her shoulder to get her attention.
"Hikaru? What is wrong?" he inquired, and his eyes widened when tears began to spill down her cheeks. "Hikaru. . . ?"
She threw herself to him, clutching him around the waist and her body was racked with sobs. "I'm sorry. . . I'm so sorry. . ." she sputtered between choked sobs. Hotohori patted her back, not quite sure what she was talking about. Before he could ask, she continued, "I broke my promise to you, I'm so sorry. . . !"
"Promise?"
"I told you I'd stay safe. so you wouldn't worry. . . I'm sorry! I didn't mean for this to happen!" Hotohori was in complete awe: the child was nearly killed, and still she cares only about the fact that she didn't keep a promise she couldn't control breaking. It made his heart heavy, that she could be such a kind young girl. He placed his arms around her, holding her tenderly.
"Hikaru, that doesn't matter. You're safe now, that's all I care about. It wasn't your fault," he assured, fingering her braid idly. She slowly looked up, the tears faintly glistening in the moonlight.
"You're not. . . upset with me?" she asked innocently, and he let out a soft chuckle.
"Of course not. I care about you too much to get upset with you over something like that." That brought a smile to her remorseful face, her eyes depicting gratitude.
"Thank you, Hotohori."
"No need for thanks," he said, and then paused. ". . . Hikaru," he began and she tilted her head slightly to one side.
"Yes?"
". . . When I was a young boy, I'd always heard legends of the Priestess who would save this country one day from certain destruction. As I grew up, I dreamt of her constantly, eagerly awaiting the day she arrived. . . I thought that, if she would save my country, that she would also be able to. . . save me from my loneliness. . ." Hikaru listened intently, so naïve as to what he was getting at. And he knew it, too. "Hikaru, I've been in love with the image of the Priestess I've created in my mind. . . and now, I think that. . . that I. . ." Unexpectedly, two fingers were placed against his lips. He looked at her, seeing her once again remorseful gaze.
"Don't say, Hotohori, there's something that. . . that you don't know. . ."
"What. . . what do you mean?"
". . ."
~*~*~*~
( Hee hee, little cliffhanger kinda thing going on there. Sorry this took so incredibly long, but I finally got it up! Yeah, four months later. Anyways, I'll try to be quicker with the next chapter! )
"No! Fuu!" Ferio cried in dismay as the young blond fell unconscious onto the floor. He, Lafarga and Caldina rushed to her aid, Ferio picking her upper body up and cradling her against himself. "Fuu! Fuu, wake up!" Presea rushed to them with a cold cloth, and gently laid it on Fuu's forehead. Clef and Ascot, both holding an end of the book in their hands, looked from Fuu back to the pages of the book, trying to figure out what had caused her to collapse.
"Could it have something to do with what's happening in the book?" Ascot asked, looking to Clef. Clef shook his head in doubt.
"I can't imagine how. . ."
"But, Clef, listen to this: 'The Priestess of Suzaku virtuously ran to the aid of her steed, swatting the insects in attempt to cause them to flee. In the midst of her task, the hooves of the horse reared up and mercilessly slammed into her side, followed by a second to her face. The Priestess fell back, trying to regain the feeling in her body. Having her horse flee, and the mysterious attacker closing in on her, she finally remembered the sword granted to her from her celestial warrior. Gathering her strength she drew the sword, using it as her crutch to stand. There she recited her vow, and charged at the assassin. However, he thought much quicker than she acted, and sent his most deadly of insects after her, its stinger piercing her shoulder. . .'" Ascot stopped reading at that point, looking over to the others surrounding Fuu, who were listening intently. Ferio trembled violently.
"Everything. . . that happened in that part of the story. . . just happened to Fuu. . . just like that. . . " he breathed, looking down to her face, wincing at the sight of her pain.
"But. . . that can't be possible. . ." Clef reasoned, then gasped when he saw Fuu's shoulder. "Look!" he pointed to her shoulder, and the others turned to see blood seeping through her uniform. Ferio, in panic, tore Fuu's uniform vest from her, followed by tearing open her white dress shirt to examine the wound. Blood trickled down her shoulder, and he vainly tried to stop it by using a torn piece of his cloak he ripped.
"What can we do now?" Ferio asked worriedly, pressing firmly against the wound with one hand, the other brushing against Fuu's pale cheek. Clef held his large staff before him, closing his eyes. A pale glow emitted from the orb atop the rod, followed by a swirling mist of energy. It encircled Fuu, and within a few seconds the mist faded away, as did the glowing from the staff. Clef opened his eyes, and shook his head sadly.
"It's no good. . .even my magic cannot help her wound. It is, somehow, very possible this book is causing all of this. . ." Clef admitted reluctantly. Presea got up from her place next to Ferio and walked over to Ascot, nodding to him and taking the book into her arms, reading some of it.
"'The assassin approached the Priestess of Suzaku, apologizing for his actions as he drew a dagger from his belt,'" she started, and the others gasped, for fear of what was about to happen to Hikaru, and as a result, to Fuu as well, "'and as he rose it above his head, his attempt was halted by a mysterious monk grabbed his wrist, and thrust him to the ground next to the fallen maiden. The monk told the assassin how important the Priestess was, and proceeded to knock the assassin unconscious. He took the Priestess to the nearest village, and met up with a famous doctor, who agreed to help the young girl. He discovered the wound the Priestess suffered also allowed a deadly venom to seep into her blood, and it was inevitable that the Priestess would die if the venom was not removed soon. . .'" Tears welled in Ferio's eyes as he realized the serious danger both Hikaru and his beloved Fuu were in.
"Master Mage Clef, is there anything I can do? Anything at all?" he begged, looking at Clef. Clef sorrowfully looked back at him.
"I am sorry, Ferio. . . but there is nothing I think we can do for Fuu or Hikaru. . ."
"Please Master Mage! I have to save her! I can't lose Fuu!" Ferio cried desperately. "I can't stand the thought of being without her again. . . please, we have to think of something!" Presea read on, then looked to Ferio.
"Wait, Ferio, listen to this: 'The doctor began immediately to heal the Priestess. He placed his hand over her, and a marking appeared in his palm, pouring mounds of healing energy into her body. Within only a few moments, the Priestess-'" Presea stopped suddenly as an emerald light surrounded Fuu, and just as it happened to Hikaru, so did it happen to her. Everyone gawked at the sight, and Presea looked back in the book. ". . . 'the wound the Priestess received disappeared as the light faded, and the doctor weakly dropped his arm, having used most of his energy to remove the poison from her blood. . .'" Presea stopped at that point, and they all looked hopefully at Fuu. Much to their delight, Fuu's eyes fluttered open, and she looked around to all of the eyes fixed on her.
"What. . . what has happened?" she asked confused as ever. Ferio smiled widely and lifted her up, pulling her into a tight hug.
"Oh, Fuu. . . I was so afraid I was going to lose you. . ." he breathed into her hair, and Fuu found herself completely lost, but she returned his hug.
"Silly, you won't ever lose me," she said softly, and everyone crowded around her, patting her shoulder and relieved that she was all right.
"Let's just hope Hikaru will recover just as quickly," Clef said, and everyone nodded in agreement. All they could do was wait.
~*~*~*~
The day passed slowly for poor Umi; it's not like there was anything exciting to do in a prison cell. But she was more aggravated then bored. Three times that morning she tried to go to sleep, but each time just before she did a guard banged on her cell, presenting Nakago. He'd ask her if she had reconsidered, and each time Umi would reply simply by sticking her tongue out at him. That only made him grin, and silently walk away with the guard. She didn't bother trying to sleep after that; she knew he'd be back.
"I'm so tired, and bored, and hungry, and. . ." Umi could have kept the list going, but just talking seemed to zap her remaining energy. So she just surveyed the other prisoners, finding most of them sleeping or just sitting there inactive. 'If only that guy would come back. . .'
Umi blinked several times as a strange clicking noise echoed in the prison hall. She crinkled her nose as a little cry accompanied the clicking. Yet it wasn't exactly a cry. . .
"Wee! Wee! Wee!" rant throughout the hall. Umi jumped up from her spot and marched over to the front of the cell, grabbing the bars and peaking out. She screeched when someone flew by, clacking something against the bars.
"HEY!" she bellowed, glaring after him and waving her fist, "whaddya think you're-AH!" there the person came again, still yelling 'wee' as he went. Umi's face darkened and she pursed her lips. Then she was struck with an idea. Knowing the guy would most likely return, she eagerly awaited. Seconds later she heard the annoying clicking, and using her judgment she stuck her foot out between the bars only a split second before he appeared.
"YOW!" he cried as he tumbled down in front of her cell. Standing immediately, he didn't seem phased, and continued his rounds. Umi's jaw dropped. It was like he didn't even realize what happened to him. HE just kept going and going, back and forth. Umi was utterly stupefied at the fact this guy could be so dense. Narrowing her eyes, she clenched her fists tightly around the bars and shouted,
"Hey, buddy! STOP FOR A SECOND!" and to her incredulity, it actually caught his attention. He skidded to a stop, looking around hysterically for the person who noticed him. He was acting like he'd just been caught stealing something. Finally, when he focused at the furious blue-haired girl, he merely stared at her, a completely blank expression on his face. Umi huffed, loosening her ghost-white fingers from their death grip on the bars. "Now," she began, but gasped when she got a good look at him, "it. . . it's you?" the boy shifted uncomfortably back and forth, eyeing her shyly.
"Pardon me?" he asked, twisting his upper body side to side like a little child. Umi rubbed her eyes, and then looked at him.
'Yep, that's definitely him,' she thought, frowning, 'but he looks a little younger now. . . and why's he acting like this? A little too silly to be entertaining.' When the boy assumed she wasn't interested in him anymore, he resumed once again his escapade of running back and forth, clacking something against the prison bars. Umi moaned and slumped to her knees, anime tears creating a waterfall down her face, "Not again. . ."
She leapt up, opening her mouth to call him, but came to the unfortunate conclusion that she forgot his name. This presented a problem for her since now she couldn't get his attention by calling his name. "Hey! . . . Uh. . . um. . ." thinking quickly, she blurted, "Mitsubishi!" Again, she caught his attention, much quicker this time, and was delighted when he came trudging to her cell. He blinked, and then she did. Placing a hand on the back of his neck, sheepishly looking at the ground, he mumbled to her.
"Th-that's. . . Amiboshi, actually." Umi's face transformed a shade of scarlet. She got ready to apologize when Amiboshi perked up. "But that's okay, 'cause I'm not Amiboshi anyways." Umi fell over, her leg twitching in the air for a second, and then she was right back up.
"Then who are you?" she asked, observing him, "you look just like him." Suddenly he became nervous, fidgeting around while scratching the back of his head. Umi leaned in close, waiting for him to answer. She screeched when he shoved four fingers in her face and blurted,
"I'mKatyandI'mfouw!" in a high pitched, child-like tone. Umi arched a brow.
"Would you mind talking like a normal human being?" she requested while pushing his hand away with her index finger. He swallowed hard; starting to sweat as his face flushed and he realized he couldn't get away with this anymore.
". . . Suboshi. My name is Suboshi."
"Then, are you related to Amiboshi somehow?"
"Yeah, he's my twin brother. See the resemblance?" he remarked sarcastically, rolling his eyes. Umi huffed and let it go.
"Why do you have his flute?"
"I. . ." he was left without an excuse. Well, one he was willing to give, anyways. Umi scrunched up her face; this guy seemed so. . . in all honesty stupid. That realization made her inwardly grin. If this guy was as ignorant as he looked, she would find him to be quite useful. Suboshi eyed her awkwardly, a pleading expression in his now large eyes. "You won't tell, will you?"
A devious grin spread across her face as a genius scheme formed in her head. 'A most perfect opportunity,' she thought, and then suddenly feigned a look of hurt. "Oh, of course not! I wouldn't even think of it! Do I look like a person who would do such a thing?" she saw him open his mouth to say something, but quickly continued, " But, since I AM doing this favor for you, maybe you could. . . help me out in return?" she batted her eye lashes, smiling sweetly.
"Wh-what do you want?" he hesitantly asked. Umi pretended to look thoughtful.
"Oh, nothing special or anything.but, I want you to let me outta here. That's simple, right?" Suboshi gulped, loosening the collar of his tunic, and reluctantly shook his head.
"I-I want to help you, but if you're in the dungeon, you must be in here for a reason. We're forbidden to even talk with prisoners like I'm doing now, much less set them free without the emperor's consent," he explained, hanging his head. Umi cursed the emperor under her breath.
'Man, maybe this won't be as easy as I thought," she speculated, 'okay, then it's time for plan B.' Getting the saddest thought she could into her head, she forced pretend tears to spill down her cheeks. "You just don't understand!"
"Huh?" Suboshi looked back up at her, and jumped at the sight of her crying. "Wh-what. . . ?"
"At first I had a little disagreement about becoming the Priestess," she wailed, turning away and covering her face with her arm dramatically to hide her grin, "but now I've changed my mind! I said I'd become the Priestess, yet those mean old guards refuse to release me to let me tell the emperor of my decision! Oh, what a world this has become!" Suboshi's jaw dropped, and he slammed himself against the bars of the cell.
"Y-you're the Priestess of Seiryuu?!" he cried, and Umi turned to him again.
"Uh. . . yeah, that's it! But they won't let me out. . . won't you please let me out and take me to see the emperor? Surely he'll listen to me rather than these heartless guards." Suboshi seemed hesitant, contemplating whether or not this was such a good idea.
"I suppose if it's for the Priestess. . ." he muttered as he crossed over to a sleeping guard. Not wanting to wake him, he leaned forward to grab the keys, but hopped back when the guard turned onto his side, the cell keys falling on the ground beneath him. He knew his hands were too big to reach under and get them, and he tapped his brother's flute on his head while trying to think of what to do. He stopped tapping and looked at the flute, grinning. Getting on all fours, he slid the flute underneath the guard's arm, and gingerly nudged the keys toward himself. With a little more forceful push, the keys slid right in front of him. He smiled widely and went to pick them up, but found that he made too much noise in doing so. So, having no other choice he bent down and started pushing the keys across the ground with his nose. Umi had to cover her mouth to keep from laughing too hard at his childishness. When he was far enough away from the guard, he snatched the keys up and smiled triumphantly, showing them to Umi. Umi was still having a hard time not laughing at his naivety. She didn't want to upset him now that she was so close, of course. So, she humbly bowed her head.
"Thank you very much, now please let me out?" she pleaded, gripping the bars in anticipation. Suboshi, taking a glance to his left and right, stealthily placed the key in the lock, turned it, and granted Umi her freedom. Umi took one step out and squealed, giddy that she was finally out of her cell. Suboshi grinned and stepped back, gesturing toward the door down the hall.
"Shall we go? I'm sure the emperor will be so pleased to hear you've changed your mind!" Umi stopped her little victory dance she had begun and looked at him.
"You know.you're right, I have changed my mind!" she chibified and dashed down the hall. "Give the emperor my regards! See ya!"
Suboshi gapped after her, then lifted his jaw and raced after her. "Hey! You tricked me! Get back here!" he cried pathetically, whirling his brother's flute in the air over his head.
~*~*~*~
Mitsukake busily prepared his horse and cart, filling it with necessities and taking the time to set a comfortable place to lay Hikaru. It was late morning by the time Mitsukake slid his arm across his forehead to remove the dripping sweat, and turned to find Chichiri exiting the home of the young woman, holding Hikaru in his arms. Mitsukake gestured to the cart, and Chichiri proceeded to carry Hikaru over, hop into the cart, and lay her gently on a spread blanket. Once situating her in a seemingly comfortable position, Chichiri turned to Mitsukake.
"Well, are we ready to go?" he asked, and Mitsukake nodded his head.
"Yes, I believe I've packed everything we'll need. You said this should only take us until mid-afternoon, correct?"
"Yeah, I know a shortcut route, ya know," Chichiri responded, and took a seat at Hikaru's side. Mitsukake seated himself in the front of the cart, picking up the reigns. He turned to the young woman and bid her farewell with a small wave. Before leaving, however, he tossed her a small bottle, saying,
"Give him one spoonful of this every evening, and he'll be cured in no time." The woman smiled gratefully and waved.
"Thank you so much, doctor! May the gods watch over you on your travels!" she cried, and watched as he rode off down the rode toward the entrance of the village. Slowly she brought her arm down, resting her hand against her chest, "And may you keep that young girl safe. . ."
The sweltering heat of the midday sun caused beads of sweat to drip down Mitsukake's tired face. It had been hours since they began their travel, and most of their water was gone by this time. He turned to look behind him into the small window of his cart, seeing Chichiri watching over Hikaru faithfully. Mitsukake couldn't help but smile, seeing the devotion his old friend gave to another. He just wished Chichiri would care about himself just as much as he cared for others.
Shaking his head, Mistukake called into the cart, "Hey 'Chiri, do we have any water left?"
"Just one more canteen, ya know," Chichiri answered, and reached across Hikaru to pick up the canteen, "but here ya go!" He tossed it outside the small window and into Mitsukake's hand. Mitsukake took a small drink of the water, relieved to feel the cold liquid moisten his throat, then tossed it back to Chichiri. At the instant Mitsukake wasn't watching the road, his horses became panicked suddenly and were drawn to a halt. Mitsukake quickly turned to see what was going on, and saw just ahead two carts that had apparently been in a collision, and one of them, piled with hay, was set on fire. Screams could be heard from a few patrons surrounding the carts. Mitsukake leapt from the cart, and, followed by Chichiri, ran to the site.
An old couple grasped onto each other, the woman shrieking in fear, seeing that someone still remained in the smoldering cart. Mitsukake and Chichiri ran up next to them, searching to find a small boy stuck beneath the burning cloth cover that was used as a top for the cart. Chichiri turned to Mitsukake, then to the boy, who had suddenly fainted from the intense smoke of the fire. He turned back to Mitsukake, nodded, and faced the cart, focusing his energy. Bringing his right hand before his face, index and middle finger erect, he released a wave of chi to bring the fire to nothing but ashes.
The fire down and the smoke drifting away, Mitsukake rushed into the pile of rubble to retrieve the boy, carrying him gently in his arms to safety. The old couple scurried over to Mitsukake, blessing him and thanking him profusely. Mitsukake stared down at the little boy in his arms, a fatherly concern apparent in his eyes. He ran his thumb nimbly over the boy's pale face, removing some of the soot and ash that covered it. The boy coughed, and slowly opened his bright, hazel eyes. His matted, long blond hair clung in clumps from the ash, and the boy shook his head to rid him of it, causing the ash to fly in his face and make him sneeze.
Mitsukake chuckled affectionately, gently placing the boy in the old woman's arms. "He should be just fine, just needs to be cleaned up a little." The couple thanked him again, cradling the boy and thanking the gods that he was all right. Mitsukake turned to Chichiri.
"We've been set back a little, ya know. We won't arrive until sunset at this rate," he informed, looking up to the sky to see the position of the sun.
"It was worth it, though," Mitsukake responded, looking back to the happy family reunited. Chichiri nodded in agreement, and ran off to get back in their cart to check on Hikaru. Mitsukake sighed, envious of the happy family. 'Shouka and I could have had that once. . .' he thought sadly, but shook it out of his mind and returned to the cart himself, quickly getting them on their way.
They traveled for hours, which went by uneventfully. Finally, when the sun was beginning to set, Chichiri announced to Mitsukake that they'd entered the forest where Hikaru's two companions were waiting. It was well met, since they'd pretty much run out of supplies by then. And, still, Hikaru had yet to wake up. They'd only gone a little ways into the forest when they heard a rustling above them in the canopy of the trees. Mitsukake slowed his stallions to a halt, and looked above him. No more than two seconds later did a figure jump down and bend into a fighting stance.
"You'd better not be here to mess with me 'cause I'm in NO mood right now!" Nuriko threatened, raising her arms in preparation to attack, if necessary.
Mitsukake raised his hand to signal he meant no harm. "Please, miss, we're not here to bring harm to anyone. By chance, have you been traveling with a young lady that went off on her own?" Nuriko's brow arched, and she suddenly smiled brightly. As she was about to respond, Hotohori's head popped out from the leaves just above Nuriko, looking around frantically.
"Hikaru?! Where is she?! I demand that she-ack!" Hotohori stopped mid- command before falling headfirst out of the tree's canopy, landing in the dirt, his upper body buried. His leg twitched twice, and Nuriko sighed, walking over and yanking him from the ground, setting him down and brushing him off quickly.
"Yes, well," Mitsukake started, clearing his throat, "my partner actually saved the young girl's life from an assassin. Deadly venom was injected into her blood, but I was able to remove it before it caused too much damage. She's still resting at this moment, but she should be just fine," he explained to soothe their worries, and Nuriko and Hotohori both sighed in relief simultaneously.
"May I see her?" Hotohori requested, advancing to the tall doctor with a hopeful gaze. Mitsukake nodded, leading him to the back of the cart, gesturing for Hotohori to go inside. He stepped up, entering the cart and immediately falling to Hikaru's side.
He gently lifted her into his arm, holding her tenderly. "Thank the gods that you're alright. . ." Hotohori breathed against her hair, finding his hands trembling against her form. He glanced around briefly, a brow arching. "Didn't you say you were traveling with another. . . ?" he asked curiously, turning to Mitsukake. Mitsukake peeked inside, and a trace of confusion crossed his face.
"Well, he was here. . ." he claimed, unable to figure out where Chichiri could have gone. "Perhaps he had other business to tend to." Shrugging, he hopped inside the cart himself, offering to help lift Hikaru out of the cart. Hotohori was skeptical, treating her as fragile china, fearing she'd shatter if they even moved her. Mitsukake assured him that she would be just fine, and Hotohori reluctantly allowed him to remove her from the cart. With that, Mitsukake insisted they start a campfire and prepare blankets for the night, and soft bedding especially for Hikaru until she was fully recovered.
"Oh! Doctor!" Nuriko cried suddenly, rushing to his side. "Please, his highness has been injured earlier! Won't you please do something to heal him? I'm afraid his wounds may be deep. . ." her voice trailed, and Mitsukake's brow raised in slight astonishment.
"This man. . . is the emperor? Of Konan?" he inquired, looking over toward Hotohori, who was at Hikaru's side faithfully. Then, when looking back to Nuriko, he caught the nod she gave him. "Well, I am afraid I can do little right now. . . tomorrow, however, I will be able to heal him properly." Nuriko didn't seem to understand what he meant, but decided it didn't matter, as long as his highness was healed somehow. Mitsukake approached Hotohori, kneeling beside him and explained that he would like to check him and his wounds.
"No, thank you, I don't believe that will be necessary," Hotohori explained, but Nuriko was right up next to him, a scowl upon her pretty face.
"Highness! You've been injured, and he's a doctor! Let him take care of you!" she practically demanded, her eyes burning with persistence. Hotohori sighed in defeat, and nodded toward Mitsukake.
"Please remove your tunic so I may inspect the wound more closely," he instructed, gesturing toward his shoulder where the injury was most obvious. Hotohori obliged, baring his upper body for the doctor to observe. Mitsukake did a series of small tests, like mobility of the shoulder and arm. Slowly, Mitsukake removed the dressing in which Nuriko provided for Hotohori, and examined the condition of the lesion. With a small nod of his head, he went over to his cart, climbing inside to collect some medicinal herbs. Once finished, he returned to the emperor, and began a much more thorough treatment.
Wrapping it up in a fresh bandage after cleansing and treating it, Mitsukake smiled, patting Hotohori on the shoulder. "You should be fine now, highness," he said with much assurance. Hotohori smiled gratefully.
"Thank you. . ." his voice trailed, as he realized he didn't learn the doctor's name.
"Mitsukake," he chirped, saving Hotohori a bit of embarrassment.
"Yes, you have my gratitude, Mitsukake," Hotohori smiled once again, and turned to Nuriko to make sure she was satisfied now. Indeed, she had that smug grin plastered on her lips.
"It's my passion, to heal the sick and wounded, so it was my pleasure, highness," Mitsukake responded kindly, and then suddenly became stern. "Now, it is time to rest. Sleep is the best for recovery." The other two nodded in agreement, realizing their exhaustion. Mitsukake provided them with some spare blankets, as their horses were now gone due to the bandit attack.
All prepared for bed, they all spread themselves around the fire, to keep themselves warm during the chilly night. Hotohori lay close to Hikaru, propping himself up on his elbow, just watching her. Nuriko, obviously knowing she was defeated when it came to Hikaru, lay on the opposite side of the fire from the two. Mitsukake lay to the left of her, and just as he sat, he came to a realization. He began looking around, a rather perplexed look about his face. Both Hotohori and Nuriko shot him curious glances.
"How odd. . . where did Chichiri go?" he asked, more to himself than anything else. Hotohori and Nuriko's glance became even more puzzled with his question.
"Who?" Nuriko inquired, catching Mitsukake a little off guard. He looked at the both of them, and smiled sheepishly.
"Oh, yes, he was the companion I was with. . . I wonder where he went off to?" he responded, again having that thoughtful expression.
"You were traveling with another?" Hotohori asked. Mitsukake nodded slowly.
"Yes, he's the one who actually rescued the young girl from the bandit who assaulted her, and brought her to me to heal her."
"Then, should we see him, I owe him my deepest gratitude," Hotohori confirmed solemnly, glancing toward the crimson haired schoolgirl that lay next to him. Nuriko turned away, rolling her eyes in great irritation. If she had gotten hurt, would he treat her the same way? Or was the Priestess far more important than she?
With that thought in mind, Nuriko grumbled, her tone sour, "I'm going to bed." And with that, she lay down and attempted to get some sleep. Mitsukake chuckled, amused by her bitterness, though unsure of the cause of it.
"Yes, that would be wise."
Finally, as the fire was beginning to die out, all were asleep; except one. Hotohori still lay awake, occasionally casting a glance to Hikaru next to him. He couldn't sleep, worrying about her constantly, fearing that maybe. . . maybe she wouldn't wake. He wanted to see her when she woke, to comfort her since she probably has no idea what had happened to her. Hotohori had no idea how much time had gone by, but it had to be well into the night, when he heard stirring next to her. Instinctively he rose, glancing at Hikaru quickly. Indeed, she'd begun to rouse, lids slowly lifting to reveal those glazed, scarlet pools. Groggily she sat up, and immediately Hotohori was at her side, supporting her.
"Uhn. . . Hotohori?" she asked, dazed. So much had happened, and she had a slight headache.
"Oh, Hikaru. . . thank the heavens you're awake," he whispered soothingly, suddenly pulling her to him. Though a bit surprised, it was difficult for her to react to his embrace.
"Hotohori, what's going on?" she asked, shifting in his arms. He lifted her chin to look into his eyes, eyes revealing such worry and sadness. Her mouth went slightly agape as they brimmed with tears.
"I thought I was going to lose you. . ." he breathed, and Hikaru pulled from his arms to sit up straight. She needed to think a moment. Suddenly, she gasped as the memories of the assassin and his insects flooded back to her, and then everything was a blank after that.
"What happened to me, Hotohori?" she requested softly, keeping a focus on his eyes. He explained about Chichiri and Mitsukake, how she was healed and brought back to them by the kind doctor. "I. . . see. . ." she said slowly, her fingers clutching the fabric of her ebony skirt. Hotohori saw her become suddenly saddened, and he leaned close to her, placing a hand on her shoulder to get her attention.
"Hikaru? What is wrong?" he inquired, and his eyes widened when tears began to spill down her cheeks. "Hikaru. . . ?"
She threw herself to him, clutching him around the waist and her body was racked with sobs. "I'm sorry. . . I'm so sorry. . ." she sputtered between choked sobs. Hotohori patted her back, not quite sure what she was talking about. Before he could ask, she continued, "I broke my promise to you, I'm so sorry. . . !"
"Promise?"
"I told you I'd stay safe. so you wouldn't worry. . . I'm sorry! I didn't mean for this to happen!" Hotohori was in complete awe: the child was nearly killed, and still she cares only about the fact that she didn't keep a promise she couldn't control breaking. It made his heart heavy, that she could be such a kind young girl. He placed his arms around her, holding her tenderly.
"Hikaru, that doesn't matter. You're safe now, that's all I care about. It wasn't your fault," he assured, fingering her braid idly. She slowly looked up, the tears faintly glistening in the moonlight.
"You're not. . . upset with me?" she asked innocently, and he let out a soft chuckle.
"Of course not. I care about you too much to get upset with you over something like that." That brought a smile to her remorseful face, her eyes depicting gratitude.
"Thank you, Hotohori."
"No need for thanks," he said, and then paused. ". . . Hikaru," he began and she tilted her head slightly to one side.
"Yes?"
". . . When I was a young boy, I'd always heard legends of the Priestess who would save this country one day from certain destruction. As I grew up, I dreamt of her constantly, eagerly awaiting the day she arrived. . . I thought that, if she would save my country, that she would also be able to. . . save me from my loneliness. . ." Hikaru listened intently, so naïve as to what he was getting at. And he knew it, too. "Hikaru, I've been in love with the image of the Priestess I've created in my mind. . . and now, I think that. . . that I. . ." Unexpectedly, two fingers were placed against his lips. He looked at her, seeing her once again remorseful gaze.
"Don't say, Hotohori, there's something that. . . that you don't know. . ."
"What. . . what do you mean?"
". . ."
~*~*~*~
( Hee hee, little cliffhanger kinda thing going on there. Sorry this took so incredibly long, but I finally got it up! Yeah, four months later. Anyways, I'll try to be quicker with the next chapter! )