Hanku Royiaki: wow! The best romantic fic? Thank you very much! I would have hoped my ALGO would be the best one, but the fact that at least one of my fics is that good is simply...amazing. Thank you so much! and for updating? How's now? (laughs)
Vermilion-ZERO: thank you for the review. I'm glad people like my long chapters. I was a bit worried that it may be a bit long-winded but you've allayed those fears. thanks
zornoid13: thank you for the review! I'll update again as soon as possible. Until then, enjoy this chapter
Innortal: the reason Kanako doesn't appear here is because she isn't adopted until later in Keitaro's life. I figured she was adopted while Kei was in middle school in the canon series, so with his parents dead, there's no one to adopt her. Sorry if you don't like that. But thank you anyway
MADman384: thank you for the review. And no, it won't take another year. This one only took two weeks, and the next may only take a week or so. Hope ya enjoy
fin: thanks for the view on Keitaro. I purposely chose Kenshin because I figured he was the best person to base the new personality on. He went through almost the same events, his parents dying, learning a fighting style under his new guardian, along with thee inability to get too close to others, the though of unworthiness lingering in the back of his mind...ah, well...thanks
sexybish666: yeah...ever since I read the very first volume I've always wondered what might have happened if they did...go farther than what actually happened. I'm so evil... (chuckles) thank you for liking the new Keitaro, and thank you also for enjoying the new chapter, anticipating it even. Thank you
Godsbane: don't worry, I will as soon as possible. Thank you
Kawaii Yoshi: I wonder also why people hate Naru so much, and not because of the pairings. Naru can actually be very sweet when she wants to, but it seems that the more fics I read, the more people turn her into an absolute bitch! The same could be said for Motoko, who some absolutely adore as Keitaro's significant other. She hurts him too! Or does the fact that she occasionally uses him as a training dummy escape them? Eh... (shrugs) In any case, thank you for the review
The Cactus: sorry if you didn't think it was worth the wait. I'll try harder next time, so please forgive me. But thank you for the nice review anyway
Malcolm Yuy: thank you for the review! I'll update again as soon as possible!
PlatinumTrickster: AHHHHH! No, flames are scary! Keep 'em away, keep 'em away! (shudders) but thank you very much for the review. The fact that you laughed a couple of times makes me feel happy...heh
kei-kun496: wow...you cried? Well, I can't complain, that's a very touching response. I sometimes cry a bit also while re-reading my own fics. Is that a bad thing? To enjoy my own fics? Who knows...thank you
Tornado(Reviewer: huh, only a couple lines about the actual story and the rest is about hating Naru. Eh...it's your opinion. But you're right, Mutsumi is a really good match for Keitaro. Too bad I like Naru more. But don't worry...a fic that I'm working on might have Mutsumi's love life in it soon. It all depends on what my reviewers think...
dennisud: yeah, it is a long story. And I also really like self-loathing characters. Maybe it's because I'm a self-loathing person. I really need to work on my self-esteem issues (sighs) but thank you so much, for both reviews
KnightDeath: thank you so much for the kind review! I work really hard with my plot and grammar, so I'm glad that you take notice of that. Also, thank you for liking the new storyline. It had been rolling around in my head since the beginning of my junior year, right after I started ALGO. And now, well, I'm just happy people enjoy it. Thanks
Wonderbee31: thank you for the review on Kei's new views. For your second question, Naru will warm up faster. I hated the fact that she was so wishy-washy with her feelings. As long as she's more open, things will go a lot more smoothly. Or...maybe not (chuckles)
Model-Kit: maybe he will! (laughs) thank you!
Thank you to all of my reviewers!
Disclaimer: I, in no way, shape or form, own any of Love Hina. Ken Akamatsu does and I highly doubt he will ever give me the rights to it. So all I can do now is write stories based on Love Hina. Please do not sue! Because if you do...then I probably won't be able to do anything about it at all.
A Moment Worth A Lifetime
By Yamiga'sLight
Chapter 3: Discussions, Discoveries, and Decisions
"Hinata House is all yours!"
No...it...can't...be...
"If you become the landlord..."
But...I...can't...be...
"All yours..."
Be the...landlord...of...
"Landlord..."
Of a...girls...dormitory...
"Keitaro..."
Can't...
"Keitaro?"
Be...
"Keitaro!"
The...
"Keitaro!"
A flash of pain erupted from his temples, and Keitaro woke up out of his stunned daze. He immediately put his hand up to the side of his head, wincing as he felt the lump that was forming there. His eyes focused onto a slightly miffed Haruka. The first thing he noticed was one of her hands balled up into a fist. Putting two and two together, he scowled in annoyance. "What did you have to do that for?"
She shrugged. "Had to get you out of that tiny coma you were in. I swear, your eyes were glazed over and you started to drool." She pointed for emphasis, and Keitaro flushed before wiping off the tiny amount of saliva that had collected at the corner of his mouth. A small smirk flashed across Haruka's face. "But anyway, you do understand what's going on now, right?"
He rubbed the back of his neck. "Sort of, but...how can I be the landlord of a girls dorm? I mean...one, I'm not a girl, so it's absolutely inappropriate. Two, all of the tenants absolutely despise me. Three..." His head hung as he looked down shamefully. "I don't deserve to be landlord."
Haruka growled in frustration. "Do I have to hit you again?" He frantically waved his hands in front of him, signaling that it was not necessary. "Good." She sighed. "Keitaro, I'm not forcing you to so this, it's your own decision. I just think that it would be a good experience for you. Who knows? You might actually become friends with all of them."
"Yeah, right..." he mumbled quietly. The odds of that are the same as me getting into college. He groaned. Great, just had to bring that up. His eyes perked a bit when he noticed a post-script at the very bottom of the fax. "What? There's more?"
P.S.
I'm sorry, Kei, for lying to you. But knowing your past experiences
with woman made me decide not to mention the current status of
my...well, your inn now. If I had, I'm sure you would have
never agreed to it. And besides, I worry about you; you need more human
contact other than at school or your apartment. There's also the chance
of getting a girlfriend out of one of the tenants. Some of them are pretty cute...In any case, please accept this gift from me; it would mean so much if you did. Hope to see you again...
Your Loving Granny
In the corner, under her signature, was a chibi version of Hinata giving the victory pose with both hands. Keitaro sighed before breaking down into chuckles. This was just like his grandma. Surprises were a daily occurrence when he lived with her and this was no exception. Haruka looked at him strange outburst, but he merely shook his head and handed the fax back over, pointing at the note. Haruka looked it over, a smirk developing as she did.
After finishing, she put her hand to her forehead and let out a short laugh. "Just like her."
"Yeah..." He stood up. "Soooo...now what am I going to do?"
Haruka mimicked his actions, standing up and then crossing her arms. "Well, as this is not exactly a normal circumstance in any person's life, I honestly don't know what to say. But since our lives have been anything but normal I suppose I could say – congratulations on being the proud, new male owner of a girls dormitory."
He sighed. "Something tells me this would be the ultimate fantasy of the basic male's mind. There's only two problems." He blew some air from his mouth and pushed the bangs out of his eyes. "One, I can barely talk to girls without blushing or being pre-occupied with something else."
"You seemed to do just fine with all of the girls here." Haruka retorted.
"Yeah, only because I was too damn worried about them finding out I had lied and hating me. That and the fact that I seem to be much more comfortable around here." Keitaro shook his head. "Anyway, back to the second reason. Two, it'll be kinda hard when my new tenants actually do ha-" He stopped mid-word after receiving a critical look from his aunt. "...err, when my tenants are...displeased with me."
Haruka gave him a smile for his correction. "Much better. Now, like I said before, this is just the chance you need to prove to the girls that you're trustworthy."
"But what if I don't? What if I never do?"
"Then you'll just have to keep trying. Besides, after all you went through, I would think that you would have more patience." Realizing what she had just said and what those words had implied, she gasped and put a hand to her mouth. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean..."
Keitaro's eyes drooped and his mouth curved into an insulted frown. "That wasn't necessary, Haruka. It really wasn't."
"I know and I'm sorry. I didn't want to bring up painful memories like that."
"It's okay." His frown changed into a sad smile. "At least you're family. You wouldn't believe how many random people tell me how 'sorry,'" here his voice took on a high falsetto, "they are for my lost. Like they know how it feels to hear your parents died, to see their unmoving corpses. To know that you'll never see them again for as long as you live." He scowled at the memories. Sorry...Hmph, he didn't need nor want their pity. He was fine enough until they had to remind him of what he had lost and would never find again. Inconsiderate, righteous feeling, do-gooder bastards...
He shook his head to release himself of the dark thoughts. There was no point to them, and the only thing that they could lead to was a long and lonely path. He walked that path overrun by shadows before and did not intend to go through it again. He smiled again to try and ease the tension. "Besides, I'm not the only one who suffered. You did, too." Haruka blinked back the tears. It was hard; her memories were just as full of strife as Keitaro's were. "You lost a brother...and a sister, too. You also lost your dad before, right?"
"Maybe I did, but it was a long time ago. All I remember is a void and mom's tears." She sighed heavily and gestured to him. "But you're far worse off than I am. At least I still have mom..."
"Stop it!" She paused in reaching for his shoulder. "I don't want to hear it! I don't want your pity! So what if mom and dad died! That was fifteen years ago!" His hands balled into fists, clenching so tightly that his wound opened up and began to bleed freely again. "The pain's faded away, it doesn't hurt as much!"
"You don't have to hold it in, Keitaro. You can feel sad, you can cry, you're only human..."
"I'm not holding it in, damn it! I'm not...not holding it in..." He calmed down, breathing slowly, his voice lowering as he did. "It doesn't hurt, and I can't keep clinging to it like a little child. If I do, I'm just being the little martyr you said I was. Self-pity...will not get me anywhere."
Haruka frowned sadly. Her nephew had changed from the little rascal he was as a child. Open and joyous before, he was only sad and secluded now. He kept everything inside him, putting on a false face of merriment. That joy meant nothing; she knew what it was hiding. From the first time when she had seen him again, she knew that the jokes, the smiles, the playful nature...were nothing more than a façade to make sure no one else shared in his pain. Surprisingly enough, however, was the fact that he had let loose a few bouts of his true emotions, as small as they were. Perhaps her mother was right...perhaps this place, this inn...Hinata House...was the key to unlocking his heart. She could only hope that it would come true...not only for his sake, but for the sakes of all that knew him.
She stepped forward, embracing the young soul. He struggled for a moment before relaxing into her, allowing his older relative to soothe his anxious mind. Haruka smiled before ruffling his hair. "Such an intriguing young man you have become. Trying to bear the world on your shoulders while you're still only a child at heart."
"Even a child can do amazing things if he tries hard enough," came his muffled reply from her shoulder.
"I think the problem is that you try too hard." She pushed back from him, looking him square in the eyes. "Keitaro, don't be afraid to let someone else help you with your burden. Don't be afraid to let someone into your heart. Just don't be afraid..."
"No one deserves to hold my burden, not even you, Haruka."
"Then you are an even bigger idiot than I thought." He muttered something illegible. She sighed. "Fine, if you're going to have to be this way, then I have no other choice." Stepping away, she twisted her wrist, a fan appearing in it as if by magic. She took the offensive object and then smacked Keitaro across the face as hard as she could. He rocked backwards until catching his footing and stopped.
Holding a hand to his now inflamed cheek, Keitaro looked at his assaulter. "Why...why did you..."
"Because I needed to smash some sense into that thick skull of yours, that's why!" she shouted at him. "God, Kei! You say self-pity isn't going to get you anywhere, but there's a difference between that and just being plain stubborn! For once in that tiny brain of yours, listen to me! I am your aunt, and therefore love you just as much as your parents did! So I do worry about you, and I do want to help you! So why can't you just accept that!"
"I don't know!" he roared. Haruka blinked at the absolute fury in his tone. Never did he react like this. Never did his anger ever rise to the surface and rear its ugly head. Never did he yell with malicious and hurtful intents. Never. "I don't know, damn it! Maybe I really am an idiot, but who are you to judge me? Last time I checked, you were just as stubborn as I was, more so even!"
"Are you trying to start a fight with me!"
"Maybe I am!"
"Oh yeah!"
"Yeah!"
"Oh yeah!"
"Yeah!"
"OH YEAH!"
"YEA..." He trailed off, finding that he and Haruka had grown closer with every statement. Now a few inches was the only thing that separated their fuming faces. Like a lock being undone, Keitaro suddenly burst into laughter. "Oh god! What the hell are we doing!"
Haruka's face became surprised before it burst out into laughter also. "I don't know, but it sure seems like what we did when we were kids!"
"Uh-huh..." Keitaro's laughter trickled off, leaving a smile. But unlike the ones he gave to make sure others were happy in his wake, this smile was a genuine smile, an honest smile. It was one that held all of his childish glee, his joy. For once, Keitaro truly smiled.
"There's the little nephew I once knew!" Haruka said. "Now don't you feel much better?"
Keitaro looked down at his feet. He glanced back up at her and smiled again. "I guess I do...Ha-chan."
She smiled back at the pet name he had given her as a child. Normally she would have wanted him to call her Haruka or Aunt Haruka, but because he was so little, he could only pronounce a bit of her name. But hearing Keitaro call her that brought back happy memories of their childhood together, and Haruka was glad for that.
"Kei-kun...You can be such a fool sometimes."
He grinned sheepishly. She giggled before deciding to take in her younger relative's new appearance. There had been much chaos and confusion to do so before, and she was happy that she now had the time to. Her eyes skimmed up and down his body, amazed by the changes in both his demeanor and physical look. Keitaro stood relaxed, knowing what she was doing. He could even feel her aura probe his for a little deeper analysis. At this intrusion, he politely but firmly pushed her back out. This was supposed to be a joyful reunion, despite the conservation they had just had, and he did not want to trouble her any more with his unknown past.
Haruka frowned slightly at the rejection of her searching but knew that her nephew had good-enough reasons to not want her to find out. She was a bit disappointed in his wary trust, but he would tell her when he was good and ready to. Besides, she had all the information she really needed at the moment. Her frown reverted back to a smile. "You've grown up...in more ways than one."
And much faster than most people should, to.
He nodded. "Training with grandma and living out on the streets will do that to you. But I'm still the same Keitaro I always was, just like you said."
"Not really," she said as she stroked her chin reflectively. "You're not the same scrawny kid I remember from when I last saw you. You're taller, much taller than before." This much was true. Haruka, not a short woman by any country's standards, was a good one or two inches shorter than him.
"You've also gotten stronger, both physically and spiritually. Not many people can break stone with their bare fists, let alone turn it to dust and dirt. Did you work out more after I left?"
"Sorta, when you left grandma decided to double the work-load on me since she couldn't torture you. Thanks for making her focus all of her attention on me, by the way."
"Better you than me," she laughed. "She terrorized me enough when I was with her. My roommates in college said I used to burst out screaming when I was asleep, it affected me so much." She groaned. "It was horrible; no one wanted to bunk with me."
As she spoke, Haruka began to walk back to her teahouse. Keitaro followed, struggling not to snicker while listening to his aunt's embarrassing predicaments. He succeeded, barely, but a collection of mocking tears forced their way from his eyes.
"Sorry," he said, clearing away the last of the tears. Haruka let out a "hmph," swishing through the entrance to her home/workplace. Keitaro did the same, and they both sat down at one of the tables.
Haruka sighed and took a pack of cigarettes out of her pocket. She began to shake one out then noticed Keitaro eyeing them speculatively. She raised the pack. "You want one?" He nodded. She handed him the pack, quirking an eyebrow. "I didn't know you smoked."
"I don't." In one fluid moment, he lobbed the pack into an empty trashbin located a few feet away. He folded his hands and stared at an outraged Haruka. "And neither should you. Don't you know those things take years off your life?"
Her expression became disgruntled. "Don't tell me you're also going to go off on a lecture about them being bad for my health..."
"I won't."
"Good." Silence. Haruka fidgeted with her fingers slightly, unused to not having a cigarette between them or her lips. She tried to strike the conversation back up again. "So did mom keep using the same training techniques after I left?"
"Nope, said they were 'too easy on me.' It could have also been because her original training caused too much damage on the surrounding homes." He smirked. "She must have gone through a few dozen lawsuits before she finally agreed to stop."
She snickered. "Aww, no more boulders or wild animals? Such a shame..."
"It's not funny. I still can't believe she let loose a wild snow leopard in the inn that one time. I'm surprised I didn't lose my hide after I woke up to two large, yellow eyes and claws like daggers in my chest." He shuddered at the memory. The only reason he didn't lose half his skin and a decent amount of flesh was because he had screamed so loud that the giant cat was startled by its new playtoy and scampered out of his room. "I continue to wonder whether grandma actually has any sanity left or if she's just pretending."
Haruka sighed. "We both know mom's a little eccentric when it comes to such things..." He snorted and rolled his eyes at the gross understatement. "But she means well. Besides, look what happened. You're much stronger than before, you definitely have more muscles, and the way you thrashed Motoko at her own game proves how much you've improved."
"Motoko-dono?" An image of a stoic-faced, raven-haired girl popped into his mind. "Ah, you mean the kendo girl?"
Haruka frowned at his tactless question. "Yes, the kendo girl. But her name isn't kendo, it's Motoko Aoyama. She also happens to be a champion at national level, so the fact that you beat her shouldn't be taken lightly."
His face flushed in embarrassment at his uncouth manner. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to be rude. But in any case, it was just luck that I beat her. I could tell that even from the start she had underestimated me. She only discovered she had when it was too late."
"You really shouldn't belittle yourself, Kei," she said. "Not many people can even stand up to Motoko, let alone hold their own."
"I suppose..."
"Anyway..." He looked up to see her chuckling. "You definitely have changed. You're stronger and I've noticed that your chi levels have grown considerably as well. I'm proud of you."
Keitaro blushed. He was not used to compliments from anyone, and his aunt was especially nice to hear from. "Thank you, Haruka."
The older woman smiled, crossing a leg over the other as she folded her hands and leaned don the table. "You want to know something else?" He looked up from his entwined hands resting in his lap. "You've gotten rather handsome, Kei-kun. You sure you haven't got a girlfriend hidden somewhere?" she asked coyly.
His blush grew even worse. His mouth gaped a few times before he managed to stutter out a response. "H...Haruka! I can't believe you said that! You know I can barely talk to girls, let alone be in a relationship with one."
"Sorry, sorry," Haruka laughed. A sly look spread across her face that so far he had only seen on Kitsune's. "But really, you can tell me. You must have girls throwing themselves onto you. Why, if we weren't related, I would be going after you."
"Haruka!" The flush disappeared as an evil glint flashed through his eyes for a moment before settling down in his lips as a sinister smirk. "Then how about you? You have someone of your own? Someone that helps you spend the night so as not to be...unfulfilled?"
Haruka blushed herself at this comment. It quickly changed into annoyance as she gritted her teeth. "Keitaro...Don't you dare go any further with that..."
He smiled smugly and leaned back in his chair, folding his hands upon his stomach. "Then you stop also."
"Deal."
Another bout of silence.
"I'm happy."
Haruka looked up from the tabletop. "What?"
He smiled and repeated what he had just said. "I'm happy. I'm happy to be able to talk like this. I haven't been able to do such for a long, long time. Thank you, Ha-chan."
She reflected his expression. "You're welcome, Kei-kun. And thank you, too. I haven't had anyone to talk to like this for years. But don't you dare tell the others this..." She winked playfully. "After all, I've got a reputation to uphold."
"Ah yes, the ever-stoic Haruka." He chuckled suddenly. "You really haven't changed all that much since we were kids. Always trying to act so serious with others yet still just a kid."
"You say that again and I'll show you how much of a child I am." Keitaro gulped and nodded his head shakily. His aunt was scary; at least that part hadn't changed throughout the years. Though truthfully, that was one side of her he wouldn't miss all that much if it did. After all, being afraid of how badly your aunt could beat you was not a pleasant topic to dwell on. She sighed at his apologetic expression. "Now look at us, we've gotten way off topic."
He frowned. Yes, they had. But unfortunately for him, he had actually been hoping they could keep on with the conversation. Keitaro really didn't want to touch on the subject again, but it looked like they would have to anyway. "Yeah, guess you're right." He groaned unhappily. "So what am I supposed to do? Deciding to become the male landlord of a girls dorm is not an easy decision to make."
"I know, I know." Haruka closed her eyes for a moment to think. She opened them again and stood up, walking over to the entrance. She gazed outside and then spoke. "Tell you what, wander around a bit and make your decision. I'll send a girl to find them later."
"You sure that's smart?"
"Don't worry," she grinned. "I'll send the best one suited to your," a wink and laugh, "situation. And just so you know, I'm sure mom will accept whatever you choose to do. She trusts your judgment..." Haruka walked back over and kissed him on the cheek. "...And so do I."
Keitaro smiled back at her and stood up. He leaned down and returned the favor to her cheek. "Thanks, Haruka." He smiled again and walked out of the teahouse, but not before asking one last request. "Just...don't pick one that could possibly kill and/or maim me...please?"
She looked surprised and laughed. "Sure, Keitaro. Sure." He grinned, bowed formally, and then rushed outside. Haruka giggled at his actions, watching him run off into the forest next to the café. She then shook her head and made her way to the cash register. Smacking the top soundly, it rang and the drawer popped out. Haruka fished out one of the many packs she had stowed away in it.
She pulled out a cigarette and stuck it in her mouth. The then took her lighter out, flicked it open, and allowed its flame to light the butt of her own little piece of Nirvana. She inhaled deeply, puffing out a small billow of smoke afterward. "That nephew of mine..." Depositing herself on the stool behind the counter, she chuckled. "He'll never really change, no matter how much time passes." Her legs slipped onto the counter, and she leaned against the wall. "Never change at all."
-
On a whim, Keitaro began to whistle. He did not know why nor did he care, frankly. It wasn't an unpleasant tune of sorts, quite the opposite actually. It was joyous and uplifting. It fit his mood perfectly. He felt so carefree, like all of the weight upon his shoulders had been lifted. He hadn't felt this happy for a long time, and even though a life-changing event was ahead of him, he didn't allow this over-hanging concern to worry him. Nothing could ruin the mood he was in now, absolutely nothing.
Gazing up at the tree canopy, he decided he wanted a better view of the place. After all, if he did choose to live there as landlord, he had to remember once again how the property was laid out. He took a grip on one of the trees' trunks and began climbing. He felt the sensation of bark under his fingertips quite invigorating, glad he was adept enough to achieve such a task. Climbing with your bare hands was not easy, and had taken a considerable amount of time for him to accomplish it. But now...it was like second nature.
Emerging from the top, he found himself about halfway between Hinata House and the main street down below. The wind blew strongly up there, whipping his hair across his face and making it even more unruly than before. He gazed upon the blanket of trees, pleased with the view until he was distracted by two distinct feelings coming from the nearby inn. They were intriguing to him and he could only venture that they were two of the younger tenants from the dorm.
One was easy enough to figure out. A regal purple, full of class and discipline, swept its way across the roof, every once in a while sending its own ki out in little spurts. It was calm, collected, owned by someone who knew what they wanted and did not hesitate in attaining their goal. However, the honor emanating from it also indicated that the owner was a very proper person, knowing right and wrong in the same sense as black and white.
Ahh, Motoko-dono... He nodded in realization. Just like a samurai, unafraid to show her powers yet reluctant to reveal her emotions. He tilted his head to the side as he clutched the top of the cherry blossom tree. But...who is the other one? I can't seem to... He smiled softly. Of course, how could I not know? Her aura and personality fit perfectly together. Su-dono...
He was right. The young tanned girl's aura was just like her demeanor, bright and effervescent. The yellow aura bulged with life and energy, expanding and contracting at an alarming rate. It was in constant motion, never staying in one place for too long. It was as if an endless wealth of energy inside of her, one that could never be drained or plugged up.
Keitaro laughed fondly when he saw the yellow aura latch itself onto the purple one. It was obvious Su-dono enjoyed Motoko-dono's presence quite a bit, and visa-versa. He could sense the bond between the two as their auras mingled with one another, creating a dazzling display of light to him.
He chose to take his eyes off of them to try and see if he could find the others. Unfortunately, between the interference of the small forest's aura and the house itself, (he had often wondered why his grandmother's inn was like a steel wall when it came to sensing but never bothered looking too much into it) he could not sense the others, and his mood dropped a little.
He frowned. "Now, what am I going to do? I can't stay up here forever..." Keitaro looked around but couldn't find anything of interest. Well, at least he could get some training until he did find something else to do. Prepping himself, he swung back slightly on the treetop before flinging himself onto the next, his fingers nimbly catching its branches. He smirked as it gave way before springing back, himself landing softly and safely.
This was actually very good exercise. The delicate balance needed between brute strength and careful agility was quite hard to reach. But doing so allowed him to grow both better physically and mentally, and he was glad for it. Keitaro repeated the process, leaping for the next tree and then the next. Soon he found himself flying through the canopy at a fast pace. He laughed in unbridled joy.
"YAAHHOOO!"
Motoko's head snapped up from its position of staring down at her sword to the source of the sound she had just heard. She had been practicing when a shout pierced through the empty air. Her eyes caught on a small object leaping through the air above the forest at a tremendous rate. She knew it was human, as it was too large to be a bird or squirrel, but she was amazed to see that the aura of it was huge. Larger than hers, full of simple childish happiness, but underlying it was a vast amount of sorrow and despair, threatening to overtake the rest of the aura yet still contained. It was strange...she thought she recognized the chi's type...but it couldn't be so. A powerful chakra such as this couldn't belong to such a weakling of a male. Yet...
"Whatcha' looking at, Motoko?" Her attention switched back to the young girl hanging from her back. Su yawned lazily and nuzzled her cheeks against her friend's. "Is there something more coolies out there than Su?"
The kendoist ruffled Su's hair fondly, letting out a rare smile that she only showed around her. "Do not worry, little one. Nothing is more important than my little sister."
"Yep!" she grinned back. "And Motoko's my big sister! But why do you seem so interested in what's going on over there? It's just that silly ronin."
"What!" Motoko's eyes widened in shock. No, that couldn't be true! It just couldn't!
"Uh-huh," Su nodded. Here eyes became curious as she hopped off Motoko's back and put a finger to her mouth. "Couldn't you tell? That's the same yell he had when he was running through here yesterday." A smile rose to her face. "Though he seems a lot happier now than before."
"Remarkable..." Motoko murmured. "If that is truly the same man..." Su crawled closer to hear the rest. "Then we have greatly underestimated him, both in body and in soul. No one with that kind of aura could be evil at heart."
"I could have told you that!" She raised an eyebrow in amusement at the younger girl. Su shrugged and hopped from one foot to the other, her lips wavering between emotions. "I might not know anything about auras or chi's or whatever like you do. I still think they're a kind of Japanese food you won't let me have."
Motoko sighed in exasperation. "I told you, Su! Chi is not a food! It's your body's energy and you can't eat it!"
Her facial expressions drooped with disappointment. "Oh, fine...I believe you...But still, even though he lied, that's the only bad thing he did. He only did a bunch of funny ones. I think he's nice!"
"Yes, yes." Motoko swung her bokuto over shoulder. "Come, we must go talk to the others. I'm done with my practice, and maybe the others know why that man's still here."
Su saluted her. "Roger dodger, Motoko sir! I shall inform the others of your intentions. Su, over and out!" she laughed and bounded down the stairs from the annex, twirling and jumping the whole way down. Motoko allowed a small chuckle to escape before swallowing it back up and putting on her warrior's face. She did not like to show her feelings too much; only to Su.
She sighed as she readied herself to face the world again, the one full of mystery and deceit. Yet, it was also quite the pleasant place...as long as she had her friends by her side...though she'd never admit. She smiled internally before taking her formal stance and walking down the steps, following the squeals of surprise and giggles coming from inside.
-
Kitsune yawned languidly from her position on the couch. She was sprawled unceremoniously across it, her state definitely not meant to be seen by anyone, especially men, as her clothes were half-off from their looseness. She balanced a beer oh her knee, every once in awhile taking a sip from it as she watched the horse races blare on the television screen. Just another boring day with nothing to do but drink the time away and bet on useless horses that couldn't gallop even if their lives depended on it.
I'm starting to miss that Keitaro kid, she thought absently. At least with him around, things were a lot more exciting. She heaved a great sigh. Oh well, no use to dwell on the past. He was long gone. After he had told them his true identity he didn't even give them the chance to vent on him before saying he would leave as soon as possible. He had been quite adamant about it, saying that he didn't deserve the kindness and hospitality given to him. Kitsune grinned at remembering this. Hospitality? Even after they had done some things that they later regretted, (even Kitsune had to admit that) he still had been so polite to them. He had even gone so far as to offer packing up and leaving then and there.
However, and Kitsune found this both strange and surprising, Naru had said that it wasn't necessary, and that he could stay the night and leave the next morning. Kitsune had noticed the small look of understanding pass between the two and quickly convinced the others to agree. She smirked, recalling the tender look her best friend had spared the fake Tokyo U student right before they left his room. It seemed like her friend had gotten a tiny crush on the young man. Even though Kitsune would have preferred that Naru chose someone else to share, if at all, her affections with, now that she considered it, that Keitaro guy was actually quite the catch.
She sighed, her amusement fading away. Too bad he left. He might have made a nice addition to their little family. She was sure the others would forgive him after a while, maybe even come to l...
"Ugh, Kitsune...Are you getting wasted again? Don't you have anything more constructive to do than lay around and collect dust?"
The fox lady looked up from her place on the furniture to see an annoyed Naru glaring at her. She grinned at the sight. Maybe today wouldn't be so bad after all. She could have a little fun now...She whined dramatically, causing Naru to feel even more frustrated. "Ohhhh...come on, Naru! It's so boring around here...What else can I do? Now that that Keitaro guy isn't here anymore, I don't have anyone to tease." She winked. "And you know teasing's my favorite hobby..."
"Yeah, yeah!" She moved to the couch, and Kitsune scooched over to make room. Naru plopped down on it, sinking into the deep cushions when she did. "I'm just glad that idiot's gone. A pervert like him shouldn't be in a place like this, full of innocent girls he can't wait to get his evil clutches on."
"Oh, really?" Kitsune grinned. She raised a leg from its hanging position to poke the redhead's arm with her toes. Naru look at her questioningly. Her grin grew. "From what I saw last night, you seemed mighty comfortable in his 'evil clutches.'"
"Kitsune!"
Laughter. "Well, am I wrong? I saw that tiny look you sent him. I never thought I'd witness the day when my little Naru got a crush on someone, especially someone whom she so aptly named a pervert."
"You're impossible," Naru growled. She pushed Kitsune's foot back with such force that the young woman toppled off of the couch entirely. But the auburn girl was too much in a fury at her friend's suggestive remarks and too embarrassed that the feelings she had grown for the polite boy had come to light so easily to care if Kitsune was all right. "I do not have a crush on that jerk. Why would I?"
Kitsune grunted, dazed from both the fall and the liquor she had just recently consumed. She clumsily climbed back onto the couch, leaning her head on Naru's shoulder. She made no resistance and allowed Kitsune to support herself on her. After the older woman became comfortable, she spoke on the matter. "Why? Well, besides the fact that he's really cute and polite; he's just got this charm and naivety that makes him into this big cuddle magnet."
Naru sighed dreamily. "Yeah, he really is kinda sweet. But he's also so goddamn contradictory! He can't decide whether to be serious or playful!" She growled and rubbed the top of her head furiously. "He's a mystery, one that I feel absolutely compelled to solve." Kitsune's interest had piqued. The tone in Naru's voice had signaled she wasn't as resolved in her opinion on Keitaro as she claimed she was. She could definitely have some fun with this.
"So, how does he kiss?" she asked suddenly, catching the teenager off guard.
"Huh? Well, he's really gentle, and..." She halted in her tracks, realizing what she had just been tricked into revealing. She watched in horror as Kitsune's face blossomed into a full-out fox grin (patent number 7535-GHD-84764.) Trying to elude her hunter, she backed away from the situation as quickly as possible. "Err...no! I...I didn't just say that! You didn't just hear that!" she yelled in aggravation, her voice muted by the hands clamped over her mouth.
"I knew it!" Kitsune squealed. She sat up on her knees and gripped her friend's shoulders. Forcing Naru to face her, she saw that her face was flushed beyond belief. "You kissed him! That's so cute! You lost your first kiss to a dashing stranger who disappeared into the rising sun, never to be seen again!"
"As if! That sounds like a bad soap opera! And there was no way in hell that guy was dashing!"
"It isn't nice to lie, little Naru..."
"Shut up! I'm not lying!"
"Attention, attention! Captain Su coming in for a landing to deliver an urgent message for Major Naru and Lieutenant Mitsune! Requesting permission to land!"
The two women twisted their heads to see a flying Su heading right for them. They weren't even given the chance to react as she landed right on top of them, making Kitsune fall off the couch for a second time. Both girls gave out squeals of surprise and shock when they were bowled over by an uproariously laughing Su.
"All righty! A three-point landing! Another successful mission by Captain Su!" A groan from Kitsune in her undignified state on the floor captured her attention. "Oh no! Officer down!" She hopped down to the floor and pulled Kitsune up by the cuff of her sweater, yelling into her ear as she did. "Don't you dare die on me, lieutenant! Stay strong!"
"Su, stop that!" Naru managed to pry the eccentric girl off her friend a bit, but it still wasn't enough for Kitsune to escape. "You're doing her more bad than good!"
The young foreigner released her hold on Kitsune, opting instead to latch onto Naru's arm. She put on an innocent look and gazed up at her. "But I was only trying to make sure that Kitsune didn't die. Is that really so bad?" Naru looked at Su and then down at Kitsune who was groaning about "crazy Indian girls." Her mouth quirked and it wasn't long before she broke down into giggles. Naru shook her head, unable to piece a sentence together between her mirth at the obscurity of the situation. Su grinned at her reaction. "So I'm not in trouble?"
"Guessing from Naru-sempai's appearance at the moment, I suppose you aren't." The others turned their heads to see Motoko slowly make her way down the stairs and into the lobby. Su's grin grew as her friend walked in before settling onto the couch. One of her closed eyes opened and looked at Su in bemusement. "But shaking Kitsune like a ragdoll is more likely going to rattle her brains than heal her injuries. Besides that...have you brought the problem to their attention?"
"Err, no," Su laughed in embarrassment, scratching her cheek. "I was having too much fun and totally forgot."
"Tell us what?" Naru asked.
"I suppose it's for the best," Motoko sighed. "Shinobu is not here, and it would not do to missing anyone." Her other eye opened, and she leaned forward, a serious tone in her voice. "Su, if you would be so kind as to get her?"
"Sure thing, Motoko!" Not even moving from her position of being wrapped around Naru's arm, Su cupped a hand to her mouth and shouted in an ear-splitting tone, "SHINOMUUU! Could you come out here!" After a moment's thought, she added, "Pretty, pretty please!"
The blue-haired lass poked her head out of the kitchen. "Yes?" she asked shyly. Her demeanor had already reverted back to the withdrawn, sad little girl she had been before Keitaro arrived. But now...now she was even less willing to give her trust without fear of having it broken – again. "What is it?"
Motoko gave a small yet very warm smile to try and ease the tension. "Su and I would like to talk to you and the others on something, and we would both appreciate it if you could join us."
"Oh. Okay." Shinobu shuffled her way to where they were gathered and sat next to Kitsune, who by now had been able to stand back up and then, without further ado, collapse back onto the couch.
Motoko nodded when she saw that she had everyone's attention. She sat up straight on the couch, intertwining her fingers over her sword that she had laid across her lap. She took a deep breath and began. "I have some rather strange and interesting news to discuss with you. That man, the one who deceived us to think he was a college student, Keitaro Urashima..." Here, the others leaned forward, each wanting to know what she had to say for their own personal reasons. "...Is still here on the grounds."
Their mouths dropped. "What!" They all shouted – Naru showing the most surprise, Kitsune with the most interest, and Shinobu with a little bit of shock written about her face. They were stunned, completely and absolutely stunned, that Keitaro was still hanging around, especially when he had said he would probably never see any of them ever again.
"Yes," Motoko said. "I saw him when I was outside practicing, and Su heard and recognized his voice when he shouted."
"But...but why would he still be here?" Naru stood up and gestured her hands wildly in front of her. A mix of emotions ran through her, the foremost being a sense of relief. Even if she could hardly admit it to herself, let alone Kitsune and the others, the young man had grown on her in the short time she knew him. Whether or not he still remained on the premises did mean a somewhat big deal to her. "I though he left this morning."
"I believe I have the answer to that."
The girls turned to see Haruka leaning against the border to the lobby and the foyer, her customary cigarette hanging form her lips. A small smile, one that usually signified she found something intriguing, was lightly played about her face, her usual stoic eyes full of a mocking shine. She walked over to them, occasionally taking a drag as she did. Halting by Motoko, she took a seat on the arm of the couch.
Motoko nodded her head in acknowledgement. "Hello, Housemother. You say you know why your nephew is still here?"
"Yep," she grinned and winked. It surprised the group, as their housemother was not one to act so playfully with them. Dry wit and sardonic comments were the extents of her sense of humor. "He's still here because I asked to."
By now, the effect of alcohol had dispersed through her, creating a completely sober and interested Kitsune. She jumped up from her lounged position, eager to find out Haruka's motivations for allowing Keitaro to stay. "Now why would you do somethin' like that? He said he'd be leaving, so why's he still hangin' about?"
Haruka sighed as crossed her arms over her chest and a leg over her lap. She chewed on her cigarette for a minute, not saying anything before removing from her mouth. "Something big has come up, and he needed time to make a very important decision."
"What kind of decision?"
"If he makes the right one he'll tell you himself."
Silence. Each of the girls wondered about what kind of decision would make the young man stay around and for what reasons. And also...would they see him again, or would he disappear from their lives just as quickly as he had appeared?
"In any case..." They all looked back up at Haruka, who had gotten off of the furniture and was now walking back to the entrance of the inn. She slipped her shoes back on and tapped them once to make sure they stayed. She twisted her head around to glance at them. "It's been a good half-hour since he started to deicide, so he's probably chosen already. I told him I'd send one of you to get him and bring him back here once he did.
"So congratulations, Narusegawa. You're our lucky winner." She waved her hand absently over her head as she made her way back to the door.
"But wait!" Naru shot up to her feet, not knowing why she had been picked. "Why me? Why not someone else?"
"Because I said so, missie! Now go and get my idiot nephew and bring him here! Besides, I know that you..." Haruka's sentence was cut off when she slid the door shut behind her, leaving her suspicious implication hanging in the air.
Naru stared at her housemates, looking for some sort of support or anything at all. But all she received were careless shrugs or blank faces. She blinked a couple times before huffing and folding her arms. "Fine, I'll do it! But I'd better not hear anything suggestive or lewd..." She glared at her best friend. "Understand, Kitsune?" The woman closed her eyes and leaned back into the couch, pretending that she couldn't care less. Naru grumbled some not-so-choice words under her breath and stomped over to the door, shoving her shoes on and slamming the door as she left.
Kitsune sighed as she opened her eyes to the spot where the auburn-haired girl was last seen. Things were certainly changing around here – everyone's personalities, the atmosphere, even the way they were all interacting with each other. And this whole nexus of change and metamorphosis was revolving around one young man and whatever decision he had to make. She grabbed an unopened beer can, popped it open, and drained it in one gulp.
"Things are gonna change around here," she whispered quietly as she studied the other girls that were still in thought. "I don't know how, I don't know why, I don't know if for good or bad..." She licked her lips, the taste of alcohol still lingering on them. Did it always taste this bitter, this corrosive? Maybe it was the...
"But things are gonna change."
-
"Why me?"
Naru scowled as she walked down the stone staircase. Her clothes and hair were whipped around her as the wind blew around in swirls. She didn't know why she had to be chosen, of all people, to fetch Keitaro. She knew that no matter what the outcome of this confrontation would be, Kitsune wouldn't leave her alone with her thoughts. She would badger and imply until Naru simply went mad.
Then again, I'll still get to see him. Now that I think about it, he is pretty cute. Maybe I can...
She halted in mid-step, the dreamy smile she owned converting into an embarrassed blush. "No! I can't think like that!" she shouted at herself. "Not like that! Not at him!"
And why not? a little voice inside of her asked. A little daydream every now and then never hurt anybody. Especially when your daydream is such a nice guy like that ronin...
"Oh, shut up," Naru muttered quietly. She couldn't have feelings for him, or the teasing would never stop. But that tiny, stupid little voice of hers just had to tell her otherwise. Now she had no idea what to do, and it had been a long time since she had been this confused. The last time she had felt this way was when he was last there. She shook her head, ending the train of thought not only because of the resurfacing of hurtful memories, but also because she didn't like what destination her reasoning was heading to.
Sighing, she started walking down the staircase again. It wasn't long until she realized something. She didn't know where Keitaro was! All she knew was that he was still on the grounds, but that was all. She had once seen the blueprints for the inn and its surrounding lands, and it was huge! He could be anywhere, and if she looked for him in every single spot, it could take forever...She groaned at the unfairness of it all. But displeasing Haruka was not something she wanted to do. If provoked or instigated enough, she could be scarier than any of their furies combined.
Well, might as well get started, doubt I'll be allowed back in until I find him. She frowned. Idiot.
Deciding to start at the main street, Naru trudged down the path until she reached it, brooding herself into a fine grudge against the young man she was sent to find. Just as she passed the Hinata Café, she noticed a trickle of movement emerging from the forest. Her anger and annoyance drained away when she saw who it was.
Keitaro pushed aside a low-hanging branch, shading his eyes from the sun as he moved onto the sidewalk. His hands moved quickly to the middle of his back, pushing into it as he bent backwards. Naru watched in a little awe, her legs strangely stuck to the ground. Seeing him again elicited a feeling inside of her that she could not describe. A rare mix of delight and contentment were the only terms she could possibly put it into. Her voice lodged itself in her throat, unable to leave as she watched him perk up suddenly and trot down the sidewalk. He didn't even see her as she was concealed from view by a patch of tall shrubs.
Seeing that he was now out of sight, her feet were released from their bizarre hold to the ground. She quickly leapt down the last flight of stair, landing lightly on her toes. Looking in the direction in which Keitaro had gone, Naru witnessed him stopping in front of an old photo booth before ducking underneath the curtain and inside. She smirked.
He's taking a photo booth picture by himself? Now that's just depressing. The smirk melted when an idea came to her mind. A slight blush formed but was quickly banished when her ego forbid her body to betray her emotions. Oh well, not like I have anything better to do. And I'm sure that he'd be honored that I allowed a person such as myself to do such a thing with someone like him. She paused, surprised at her overdone burst of pride. Okay, that was a little conceited.
Sighing at her change of heart, Naru decided to go along with her first thought. She crept up to the photo booth and snuck in quietly. Luckily, the young man was too busy posing to notice her. She smiled as she moved to her side, taking a gentle grip on his arm and bending down to center herself in the frame.
The light flashed, signaling the picture had been taken, and the smile on Naru grew wider. Now he had something in it that wouldn't make him look so pathetic. The smile disappeared, however, a look of surprise and embarrassment replacing it when Keitaro spoke out, his voice serious and stern.
"It is not polite to sneak up on people like that, Naru-dono. I would have thought that your parents had taught you better." He tilted his head up and turned to her slightly. The side of his face that she could see was characterized by an arisen eyebrow and a small quirk in the corner of his mouth. "Or have you become so accustomed to my presence that you decided to follow me?"
Naru blushed and shot up, annoyed by his remarks. "Now why would I want to do something like that!"
The minute smile Keitaro held swiftly drooped into a frown. "I know that, Naru-dono. I was only trying to ease the tension between us considering how we parted ways." He sighed heavily and then noticed that the little stickers had been printed. He took them from the slot, purposely averting his eyes from Naru's. "But it seems I have only made things worse. Please forgive me for my mistake."
The scowl she possessed melted at the pleading nature in his voice. What else could she do when it came to a tone like his? "It's okay. I'm just still not used to your personality changes."
The young man's eyes gleamed with confusion. "What do you mean?"
Naru sighed and raked a hand through her long hair. "You can't seem to decide how you want to act. You're either somber or playful, someone who's older then they look or only a little child. I don't get you – you can be such a jerk at times but then be such a nice guy at others. It's baffling."
Keitaro smiled sheepishly, not really sure whether to consider her statement a compliment or an insult. "I'm sorry. I'm still not that good when it comes to social matters. I never really had the time nor the motivation to try and learn how to interact with other people properly. Forgive me if I have acted bad-mannered or otherwise."
Naru was confused. What did he mean that he never learned to interact with people? Was he a recluse or something? Did something horrible happen to him that minimized his ability to live in the world around him? She didn't know if she should have asked what he meant, but perhaps luckily, or maybe unluckily (she never really knew), he spoke up again before she even had the chance to open her mouth.
"I suppose you're here because Haruka told you to find me?"
She nodded. "Yeah. She said that you have a decision to make and that I had to bring you back after you made it."
He paused for a moment, wondering how to best breach the surface of his request. It was a little awkward to do, considering he had had so much time to avoid it, but it's not like no one else on the planet ever made the same mistake. "Urm...to tell the truth, I still haven't chosen what to do yet. So unless it's too much of an inconvenience, would you mind waiting a little while longer?"
Naru felt slightly torn at this. On one hand, she wanted to get back to Hinata house as quickly as possible. On the other one, if this decision was as life changing as Haruka made it seem, the least she could do was give him a bit more time. Taking the latter, she said, "Alright, I'll give you some more time. But don't take too long! I do have better things to do than baby-sit you."
He smiled at her approval, although it was a bit uneasy at best. "Thank you very much, Naru-dono. I appreciate you going through this for me." He stood up and walked out into the fresh air. "If you would like, you can come with me. If not, you can do whatever you want, and I'll go back to the inn when I'm ready. I don't wish to be a burden."
Surprised by his generous offer, Naru didn't know how to respond. But after seeing his questioning gaze because of her silence, she shook her head. "Don't worry, you're not any trouble! I...I'd be glad to wait with you until you're ready."
Keitaro bowed slightly. "Thank you very much again." He then began to amble down the sidewalk, back to the stone staircase. Naru had a moment's hesitation before rushing after him. When she got to his side, she slowed down her pace to match his.
"So what were you doing there in the first place? A guy taking photo booth pictures by himself? That's kinda sad, don't you think?"
He stopped, and she walked on a bit further before noticing. She glanced back to see that his head was hung and he was sliding on of the little pictures stamps into a booklet. After putting it in, he sighed and looked at it. He closed it shut, the pages making a "thup" sound as he did. "Call it a hobby if you will. It's one of the few pleasures I can actually have even if it is a little strange."
She took a step forward and leaned towards him. "Do you think I could take a look?"
Almost on instinct, he clutched the notebook to his chest. A self-conscious flush flew across his face, and he looked down at his feet. He mumbled his next sentence so quietly that she barely heard it. "Promise not to laugh?" She nodded enthusiastically, eager to know what would make him so uncomfortable in showing. He sighed. "Very well..." Keitaro reluctantly handed the booklet to her. "But remember, you promised."
"Oh, don't worry. How bad could it..." She opened the book and immediately trailed off. This...this couldn't be right, could it? She flipped to a random page. There was again. Another one. Again. Another one. The same. Every page she flipped to, the same image stared back up at her, always unmoving never changing. The only differences in any of them were the varying frames. She looked back up at him, her eyes full of disbelief and mockery. "Are all of these...are all of these pictures of you...alone?" Keitaro refused to meet her gaze, blush becoming worse. Naru soon began to giggle. She tried to stifle it, but it only escalated into a full-blown laugh. Soon she was cackling loudly, unable to bind her mirth.
Keitaro frowned as he darted his hand forward, snatching the book from her unsuspecting hands and shoved it harshly into his pack. "You promised you wouldn't laugh."
"I-I'm sorry! It's j-just that..." She couldn't continue as she had broken down into another fit of giggles.
"What do you find so funny, Naru-dono?"
As the coldness in his voice registered in her mind, Naru's laughter stalled. She tilted her head up to see that Keitaro had his feet firmly planted on the concrete, his arms crossed over his chest. All of the mirth she had owned drained away in an instant while he stared at her severely. His eyes' usual warmth had vanished, leaving only hard, emotionless orbs. The brown colors of his irises darkened, making them blend almost perfectly with his pupils. They looked as though they were holes that went on for eternity, no soul lighting their way.
She opened her mouth to talk but no sound could make its way out, lost inside her voice box. She had seen this empty gaze before, but it was only brief, not really having time to kick in, and it wasn't even close to this void she witnessed. She tried to speak again. "I'm sorry...I didn't mean to-"
"Do you think I enjoy this?" he interrupted. "Do you actually believe I like being in every picture by myself?" His frown deepened, his eyes gaining spite, his eyebrows slanted over them. "Yes...you honestly do. You're so damn sure of yourself that you think I prefer taking a picture of my lonesome self rather than with someone else, hopefully one of the opposite sex. Well, do you know what I say to that?" The spite slipped away, revealing regret.
"I say you're right."
Naru didn't know how to reply. She wasn't given the chance, however, as Keitaro hitched up his pack and continued.
"At least...I wish I could, but it wouldn't make a difference anyway." His bowed his head forward, his bangs covering up his face. "Do you wish to know why I do it, even though most people would call me a pathetic loser?" She nodded, nervous as to what the answer might be.
"Because it helps me smile."
He raised his head, his eyes now reflecting only loss. "Because in every single one I can smile. And as long as I can smile, I don't have to worry about the hole in my heart. For one tiny moment, the sadness, the pain...they don't matter. Even if my smile may be as empty as space, I don't care...because I can just forget." He smiled ruefully and scratched his cheek.
"Forgive me again, Naru-dono. I did not mean to trouble you with my problems. Maybe...maybe it would be best if you went home and let me come back later." He brushed by her, trying not to worry the young woman any further. "I suppose I should go now. Goodbye, Naru-dono."
What the heck was I suppose to accomplish with that? All I did was hurt Naru-dono even more. Screw this whole deal, I really should just leave...
Naru stood frozen to the spot, that same strange force rooting her to the ground once more. She didn't know what to do, didn't know what to say, didn't know how to act after what he had told her. Because of his speech she was a mess of emotions, absolutely confused on what was going to happen next. All she could do was apologi-
"Keitaro, wait!" He looked over his shoulder to see Naru run up to him. She stood in front of him, panting a bit from the distance she had just sprinted. After taking her hands off of her knees, she placed one on his arm. "Please, I...I just wanted to..."
He smiled sadly and removed her hand from his limb. "Naru-dono, don't. Just...leave me be for now." He abruptly began to walk away from her again.
But Naru was not going to have any of this. She growled in frustration and leapt forward, crushing his hand with hers in a vice-like grip. He winced in pain while she spun him around to face her. Her look of irritation disappeared when she noticed the pain in his features. She gasped and let go of his hand, which he immediately began to massage with his other. She blushed at his expression, putting the hand she used to grab his to her chest.
"I...I wanted to apologize. It was insensitive of me to laugh after I promised not to."
He sighed and ran his fingers through his bangs. "Naru-dono, it really is not necessary..."
"No, Keitaro!" His head shot up slightly from her sudden outburst. "It was wrong and mean and stupid of me to do so, and I need to say I'm sorry. So will you please just accept my it so I won't feel so damn guilty!"
His eyes twinkled briefly and his mouth quirked impishly. "Well, if you are going to be so adamant about it, I suppose I have no choice but to accept. Though I still see no reason as to why you should apologize." He bowed to her. "But I do appreciate your show of sympathy. Thank you."
Naru sighed in relief. That was good. He had forgiven her, and everything was all right. But now what was she going to do? Would he allow her to stay with him until he made his decision, or would she have to go back to the dorm, alone, and wait for him? Secretly she hoped for the former, though she would never say it out loud.
"Umm, so..." she looked down at the sidewalk and grounded the toes of her shoe into it. "Could...could I...?"
"Would you like to take a quick break, Naru-dono?" She glanced back up at him to see his finger pointing at a wooden bench located at the base of the staircase. He smiled at her surprised look. "I'm sure it would be more comfortable sitting down than standing here, right?"
Naru grinned, ecstatic at the fact that he had asked her what she was too embarrassed to ask. "Sure! I was kind hoping we could do that. I don't like the idea of just loitering around here." On an unknown instinct, she grabbed Keitaro's hand and dragged him over to the bench, forcing him to sit down before settling a comfortable foot or so away from him. Naru fidgeted absently with the hem of her skirt, taking a quick peek at the young man beside her every so often. He seemed content where he was, his head bowed a little and a reminiscent smile on his face. Finally, she spoke. "I guess it's true about you not being an expert around girls."
Keitaro chuckled. "Girls, boys, petty much any human being I'm not related to. But yeah, girls especially a mystery to me. More than to most men at least."
"Hmm...Well, you seem to be doing a pretty good job around me so far."
"Yes, right after I treated you so harshly."
"I told you, it was my fault for laughing at you in the first place."
"Very well, Naru-dono."
Silence. Naru bit her bottom lip, wondering on what to do next. She supposed she could ask him what big decision it was he had to make but quickly opted not to, as it would be rude to pry into his business. Instead, she picked the alternative of seeing what he was going to do about the matter that caused this mess in the first place. "So...what's going to happen with Tokyo U?"
Keitaro raised his face to gaze up at the sky. His eyes had regained the hope and warmth he lost when he had chastised Naru. A broad smile crossed his face, making it seem like he was laughing at some personal joke. "If I give up now, I guess I really will be a liar." He turned to her and closed his eyes. "I'll try for a little longer."
"That's great!" Naru smiled. Since the atmosphere had become so friendly, her brain had kicked itself into romantic mode. Purely by accident, or rather the lingering feelings from the night before and ones being shared by them at that moment, Naru did something that she would never do otherwise. With a, "Good luck, ronin!" she leaned over and gave him a quick peck on the cheek. Right afterwards, she blushed furiously and returned back to her position, moving several inches away. She held her flaming cheeks in her palms, berating herself.
Why did I do that! Now he's gonna think I like him or something!
And is that really such a bad idea?
Shut up!
Meanwhile, Keitaro, who was blushing considerably himself, was absolutely shocked. He placed a hand on his cheek where she had kissed him, feeling the warm moistness of her unintentional show of affection. "N-Naru-dono...W-what was that for?"
Naru shifted anxiously. "Urm would you believe it was for good luck?"
"If Naru-dono would wish so."
"I would."
"Very well."
Silence.
"Thank you."
"You're welcome."
Silence again. The tranquil atmosphere now completely shattered, he wondered what he could say so as to relieve the tension. Also, he didn't want to think about the meaning of the kiss, or the idea that it may have been an effect of the night before. As pretty as Naru was, he didn't deserve to even consider trying to get with her. It was just the way the world worked. He was unworthy and that was that. Suddenly, a topic came to Keitaro's mind that could not only help out with the situation but also with his decision.
"Naru-dono, what would you say if I became the landlord of Hinata House?"
Naru's blush subsided as she looked up at him in confusion. "What?"
"Hypothetically..." he gestured with his hands vaguely. "If I became manager of the inn, what would your opinion be?"
She cocked her head, her brows furrowed in puzzlement. Why would he be asking such a thing? Was this the big choice he had to make? If that was the case, then she might as well tell the truth. If it wasn't, then...well...it wasn't.
"What would I think if you took over the inn?" Keitaro nodded. "Well, first I'd have to say that it would be totally wrong. You're a guy, and there can't be a land-lord of a girls dormitory. Then there's the face that you lied to us about being in a prestigious college. Not to mention that you saw us when we weren't exactly..." She blushed. "...decent to the eye. That alone should prove you're not the best for the job."
At every reason she gave, Keitaro's attitude drooped a little more. I guess it's true, he thought sadly. Naru-dono and the others really do see me unworthy of being landlord of Hinata house. He chuckled bitterly. Not like I expected them to welcome me with open arms. However, due to his self-deprecation, he almost missed what the young woman said next.
"But...besides that, I think you would make a fine manager. You're kind, hardworking, and even though you might have lied, you had enough guts to come out and tell the truth even if it meant your having to leave. It took courage to do that, and the others would definitely respect you for it. And also..." Hesitantly, she put a hand on his. He looked at her in surprise while she smiled shyly. "I honestly believe you can be landlord. You're a nice guy, Keitaro, and I really think you have what it takes."
He digested her confession for a moment before allowing a smile to appear on his face. He removed his hands from Naru's and slowly stood up. Turning around, Keitaro gave her a formal bow. "I thank you for your help, Naru-dono. I think I've finally made my decision now with it." He extended his hand to her. "If you may, I would like to escort you back."
Naru smiled capriciously. She took a dainty grip on his offered appendage and allowed him to pull her up. "I would be delighted."
With that, the two made their way up the stone staircase to the inn.
-
When they finally arrived at the top, they were surprised to find the rest of the tenants crowded outside the main door. Haruka was with them, making amiable conversation until she noticed her nephew, along with Naru, finishing the last flight of stairs. She smiled wryly at the way they walked by each other, not too close to be conspicuous but not too far away from each other either. She waved at them, silently ordering the two to come over. When they did, she said, "So, you finally got him to come back, eh, Narusegawa?"
"Yes, Housemother."
"What took you so long?" Kitsune asked. "We've been waiting here forever!" A sly grin overtook her contours as she leaned forward towards an anxiously growing Naru. "You weren't doing anything you shouldn't have, were you?"
Naru blushed as a reply. "Kitsune!"
Haruka sighed in irritation as she ignored the two arguing friends and turned to her younger relative. "So, Keitaro...have you finally made a decision?"
"Yes." He scratched the back of his head and continued. "I've chosen...to do it."
She smiled. "Wonderful. Mom will be so pleased when she hears this." She turned back to the girls, who by now had exploded into a full-blown teasing fest between Naru and Kitsune with Motoko, Su, and Shinobu as the audience. She cleared her throat, but it was to no avail as Naru's screeching at Kitsune drowned out all other noise. She put her face into her palm and sighed, her irritation growing from their antics. Ultimately, the annoyance snapped her tolerance, and she barked out a command.
"QUIET!"
At this, the girls instantly stopped, a surprised look on all of their faces as they turned to face Haruka. She tapped her foot impatiently until she saw that she had all of their attention. When she did she nodded in approval. "Good, you've finally stopped acting like a bunch of little kids. Sometimes I wonder how you two made it out of grade school."
As the guilty part hung their heads down in shame, Keitaro tried to hide a smirk that was steadily climbing its way out of his mouth. He covered it with his hand, pretending he was giving a yawn. But it wasn't the girls he was laughing at, oh no, it was the person yelling at them, that was the funny part. Auntie telling someone not to act like a child. Talk about the pot calling the kettle black.
Haruka caught the muffled chuckles of her nephew but chose to ignore it in face of a much bigger event. She sighed and stuck her customary cigarette in her mouth. "Well, now that I've got your undivided attention, I can tell you why I've gathered you here today. As you know, my nephew, Keitaro here, was told he had to make a decision. I'm going to be honest, what he says now will change everything. Hopefully, you can accept it and allow him to perform it, too." She nudged Keitaro forward. "Go on, Kei."
He looked over his shoulder, only to see her give an almost unnoticeable wink. He sighed, resigned himself to his fate, and turned around to the watchful eyes of his soon-to-be-tenants. He gulped. It was time to cross the Rubicon. "Hello, ladies. I'm back to make an important announcement. Due to some...unforeseen circumstances, it appears I will not be leaving. Instead I...I..." He bowed down to the dawning of shock on their faces.
"I would like to greet you all as the new landlord of Hinata House."
A/N: Well, this chapter is finally done! Ugh, I feel so tired...I've had a splitting headache that no amount of painkillers have been able to fix for the past week, and I'm severely annoyed! Not only that, but for some odd reason I feel like I haven't gotten enough sleep, even though I have! I've been falling asleep in school and getting yelled at by my teachers. All in all, not a good period in my life...I'll talk to you again about the next chapter after the interview!
Yamiga: Hello... (yawns)
Chaos: Dude, you okay? (pats Yamiga on the back)
Yamiga: (nods) Yeah, work has been having a toll on me though I really haven't been doing much. I've just felt really weak lately. Anyway...how ya doing, Keitaro? Like the new chapter?
Keitaro: Err...it was nice. Thank you for cooling the misses down. I really appreciate that.
Yamiga: Glad you do. Then in that case...you want to meet them now?
Keitaro: (anxiously rubs the back of his neck) I guess...
Yamiga: (smiles) Cool. Chaos, would you go get them, please?
Chaos: (huffs) And why do I have to go get them?
Yamiga: (frowns) Two reasons. One, because you should be grateful I'm even letting you be here. And two, I really don't feel good. So could you just be a good boy and listen to me for once?
Chaos: Fine. (sighs; walks off to a door materialized and opens it) Yamiga said you could come in now.
The girls walk in one by one. Upon noticing each other, Keitaro and Naru blush and look away again. The Hinata House tenants look on in confusion while Yamiga and Chaos do the same in amusement.
Yamiga: (claps hands together) Well, now that we're all here, I'd like to introduce you ladies again to author world.
Kitsune: And who are you again?
Yamiga: (sweatdrops) Urm...let's just say you do know me from another lifetime, and leave it at that.
Su: Well...you are kinda cute. (grins) Will you be my new playmate?
Chaos: (laughs) And then some things never change.
Yamiga: (smiles) I suppose...But in any case, can we get this over with? We can talk more with the others at the next interview.
Chaos: Sure!
Chaos and Yamiga: Please Review!
Kitsune: But who are they!
A/N: Ugh...I think I may be coming down with a cold...Ah well, that's life. anyway, I'm gonna be a lot more prompt in my updating. I'll update one more chapter of AMWAL then post my new 'Threads of Fate' story right after that. After that, the next chapter I post will depend on three things. One, it'll depend how lazy I feel. You've realized I go through periods of not doing anything, right? Two, it'll depend on how fast I write my new chapters. Sometimes I write real fast, and sometimes I have so much trouble finding a good start. Three, it'll depend if I can keep my attention on one story long enough! I'm already posting four different stories, drafting three more on paper, and have three more on my mind's backburner! (sighs) I really need to learn how to focus...Anyway, can't wait to see you next time! Until then, please review, and remember, no flames!
Preview!
Next Chapter: Learning About the Landlord
Keitaro lowered his head into the warm water, gurgling in irritation. A fox in human guise, a shy little flower, the human embodiment of the Energizer Bunny, a modern-day samurai, and a girl who couldn't seem to escape his thoughts. They were all people that he would have to acquaint himself with as the new landlord. He looked Su, watching as she hopped back over to the others, pointing and laughing at him as she did.
Well, at least my life won't be boring anymore...