Chapter 2
Taiitsukun waved her hand, calling Nyan-Nyan's to her. "Now. You all shall stay here the first night. There IS a great gap in the time difference, so that shall be a little strenuous for you. Traveling from one Universe to the next does put a lot of stress on your body, so it would be best for you to stay."
Gurase blinked. "Nani? But it's the middle of the day." Taiitsukun shook her head. "No, back on Earth it was. In THIS Universe it is nearing nightfall.." Seshiri ran over to window, gazing out. "Gods, she's right!" Taiitsukun grunted. "Of COURSE I'm right!"
Out of nowhere a tall girl walked over to them. In a soft voice she said, "You called Taiitsukun-sama?" Taiitsukun nodded. "Hai." She turned back to the group. "This is Kaeli. Some of you," She glanced at Chichiri. "May recognize her. She is my assistant, and will help you on your journey."
Name: Kaeli
Occupation: Taiitsukun's helper
Age: 18
Hair: Dark blue
Eyes: Changes with mood
Powers: Various magic (i.e.: healing, transformation, teleportation, illusion)
Seshiri frowned. "Nani? How come I've never met you before? I was here my whole childhood and I never met you…" Kaeli smiled faintly. "Seshiri, while you were here Taiitsukun made me stay out of sight. I lived in a separate part of her kingdom."
Chibi-Seshiri turned to Taiitsukun. "NANI? What didja do THAT for?" Taiitsukun rolled her eyes. "Because, Baka, would you have been able to concentrate on your studies with a pal around? Besides. I had Kaeli doing very important research for me." Seshiri rolled her eyes and turned to Chichiri. "Isn't that just like her Chichiri-san?" She stared at him. "Chiri-san..?"
Hmm….. What's Chichiri doing..? Hmmmmm… This is going to be interesting.
He was staring at Kaeli with his mouth wide open. In a breathless whisper he murmured, "Kaeli!" Kaeli smiled at him. "Chiri-san!" She said, laughing. Chibi-Chichiri rushed over to her and hooked arms with her. They did Tasuki and Kouji's trademark bandit dance, swinging each other around.
Chibi-Tasuki glared at the two grumbling, "I should really get that dance copyrighted…. People trying to steal my dance…" Chibi-Seshiri hit his shoulder lightly, grinning. "Shh." She whispered. "This is kawaii!!!" Taking a step back Chichiri laughed and hugged her. "KAELI-CHAN!" He exclaimed. "You haven't aged a day no da! What happened no da? Have you been here ever since no da?"
Kaeli hugged Chichiri, grinning. "Hai!" Chibi-Amiboshi looked between the two. "What just happened here?" SD Chichiri turned to the group. "This is Kaeli!" Tasuki smirked. "Baka, Taiitsukun already told us her name!" Chichiri rolled his eyes.
"This was my best friend no da!" Seshiri grinned. "Continue." "Actually Kouran's best friend no da…. But she was really close with me!" Gurase wriggled her eyebrows. "Really close huh?" Chichiri smacked his forehead. "DAAAAA!!!!!" Chibi-Chichiri fell over. "That's not it at all!"
Suuure it isn't Chichiri! Oooh this is going to be really interesting! Hmm… This might be a very interesting development… Seshiri grinned to herself.
Chibi-Kaeli grinned. "Chichiri worked with me while we studied under Taiitsukun." Chichiri nodded. "Hai!" Nakago sighed. "And we care, why?" SD Seshiri whapped Nakago's shoulder. "Baka, it's kawa-" SD Seshiri froze as he glared at her. She laughed nervously and brushed his shoulder off. "Gomen nasai Nakago-sama."
Aaaahh shit shit shit! SHIT! Why did I do that!? I didn't mean him to get all defensive n stuff… aaagh this isn't going to be very pretty….
"Psh." Nakago turned his attention back to the floor. Soi put her arm around Nakago. "Don't touch Nakago-san like that or else, got it?" Seshiri backed away from the two. "G-g-g-gomen!" Eep! This is bad very very bad! Not a good start! Nakago put his arm around Soi, silent. Tomo turned away from the two, frowning.
Tasuki hugged Seshiri protectively. "Hey, is that a threat?" Soi glared. "Maybe." SD Taiitsukun threw her hands in the air, muttering. "And here starts." Nuriko took a step towards Tasuki. "Tas-kun, keep your cool! We don't want this to turn into a fight! We gotta work with them." Tasuki took a step towards Soi and Nakago before halting. He growled, spitting at their feet and turning away. A Nyan-Nyan popped up and cleaned up the floor.
Chichiri sweat dropped. "Daaa…." Amiboshi turned to his brother. "This is going to be a very interesting trip…" Suboshi nodded. "I can hardly wait." He muttered sarcastically. Gurase turned to Taiitsukun. "I think it would be a good idea to put the Seiryuu and Suzaku in separate wings of your palace…" Taiitsukun nodded. "Hai. This is NOT a good start… BUT" She said, turning to the others. "You WILL be dining together." Awww dammit. TAIITSUKUN why are you making us do thiiiiss?!?
Nanuri whined. "Do we have to? I mean, I REFUSE to eat at the table with THAT." She gestured towards Ashitare. The wolf looked up at her, whimpering. Taiitsukun frowned. "You're right, it IS a cannibal…" Miboshi looked down at Ashitare indignantly. He floated over to Taiitsukun. "He is NOT an it! He is a he!"
Nanuri snorted. "There IS no difference when it comes to IT." Ashitare growled, hackles rising. Nuriko stepped between Nanuri and Ashitare. "Hey, back off mutt!" Ashitare let out a grumble and turned around.
Taiitsukun sighed and with a wave of her hand Ashitare turned to his human form. "AAAHH" Seshiri turned pale remembering the fight between Tasuki and Ashitare. Nyan-Nyan's flocked around Ashitare, clothing him. He grunted and muttered. Seshiri turned and buried her face in Tasuki's shirt. Ashitare. You. You took him away from me! You're so close and I can't do anything! I hate this! This is torture…. Tasuki sighed, hugging Seshiri tightly. He kissed the top of her head and looked up. "So, when's dinner?" He asked, giving everyone a fangy grin.
~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~
Seshiri sat nervously at the table between Tasuki and Gurase. She cautiously poked at her food. Nanuri frowned. "This is all nice an stuff but it's kinda weird, ya know? After having food from Earth it's just.. I dunno.. WEIRD!" Seshiri nodded. "Agh I know! Right now I crave a taco!" Chibi-Gurase closed her eyes and drooled. "OR a hamburger with fries!" Tasuki shook his head. "No! no! MENTIONING it will only make it WORSE!"
Chibi- Seshiri took a bite of her food, wincing. "Agh. This is definitely not a taco." Taiitsukun threw up her hands. "Well what do you EXPECT I'm not a fast food restaurant over here!" Chibi-Seshiri laughed nervously. "Uh gomen Taiitsukun!"
Amiboshi looked over at Ashitare. "Taiitsukun-sama?" He asked quietly. She turned to him. "Hm?" "Well… Wouldn't it be nice. If you could give Ashitare a human form? I mean a REAL human form. Because that doesn't seem very much like a human. And make it so he can string more than two words together."
Taiitsukun frowned, thinking. "That IS a good idea…" Gurase flashed a grin at Amiboshi. "Great thinking Amiboshi!" Taiitsukun nodded. "Hai. I think I will do that…. After dinner."
Kaeli was seated next to Chichiri as they laughed about their childhood. Seshiri observed them, grinning. She whispered to Gurase, "Hmm.. Gurase! Care to play matchmaker with me?" Gurase was about to answer when Hotohori shook his head. "No, Seshi-chan! Don't meddle in such things!" Chibi-Seshiri pouted. "But, but, they'd be so KAWAII together!"
Gurase shrugged. "Gomen Seshiri-chan. You're on your own!" Seshiri sighed, turning back to her plate. "Party pooper." She grumbled. Gurase laughed and continued to eat.
Miaka was stuffing her face with food, as usual. "Mmmmmmmmmmmmmm I'd FORGOTTEN how GOOD this stuff was!" Tamahome nodded. "This is really great! Arigatou Taiitsukun-sama!" A chorus of "Arigatou's" echoed after that as Taiitsukun grinned smugly. "Well I-" Nyan-Nyan popped in front of Taiitsukun. "NYAN-NYAN MAKE THE FOOD!" Another one popped up. "Hai! Hai! Nyan-Nyan make! You think it's good? Nyan-Nyan make MORE!" Chibi-Taiitsukun swatted at Nyan-Nyan.
"Shoo! Shoo you annoying pest!" She croaked, trying to get it to leave. Nyan-Nyan disappeared, sulking. Taiitsukun turned back to her guests, annoyed. "Gomen…."
SD Seshiri frowned. Dammit. No one is going to play matchmaker with me! How am I going to- Nanuri caught Seshiri's eye. SD Seshiri grinned. She motioned to get Nanuri's attention. Nanuri looked up from her plate, confused. Seshiri signed to Nanuri. Use Sign Language!!! Nanuri blinked and replied, Why? Seshiri rolled her eyes. Because… It's hard to talk when we're so far apart. I don't want anyone to hear. Nanuri nodded, understanding. What's wrong? She asked.
Want to play matchmaker? Nanuri grinned evilly. Kaeli and Chichiri? Seshiri grinned back. Who else? Nanuri nodded slightly. Ok, I'll play!
Gurase stared at the two. "Hey! No fair! You guys can't use sign language! Then we wont know what you guys are saying!" Nanuri laughed. "Gurase, hun, that's the whole point!" Gurase frowned. "Now I wish I'd taken Sign Language like you guys. Seshiri grinned. "No worries Gurase! We'll stop using sign language!"
Tasuki poked Seshiri. "I agree with Gurase! Why don't ya teach me sign language?" Seshiri laughed. "Because! Then you'd know what we're saying! And that would defeat the purpose!" Tasuki pouted, taking a swig of sake. "Nya. Fine. Have it your way." Seshiri laughed and turned to Nakago, trying to make peace. "So, Nakago, what's up?"
Soi hissed slightly, draping herself over Nakago. "Nakago-sama doesn't want to talk to YOU." Seshiri backed up in her chair, raising an eyebrow. Nakago closed his eyes saying, "Soi. Do you mind?" Soi quickly coiled back saying, "Gomen Nakago, I just thought you wouldn't want to talk to such SCUM." She glared at Seshiri.
……SCAAARYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Nakago forced a smile. "Gomen Seshiri, Soi here doesn't seem to understand that we must be friends." Tasuki muttered under his breath, "Neither do you." Tomo jumped to his feet. "WHAT did you just say about Nakago-sama?!" Tasuki smirked up at Tomo. "Nothing! Suzaku forbid I should say anything against 'dear sweet Nakago'" He snorted. Seshiri looked around uneasily muttering, "Tasuki… don't make them mad!"
Tasuki! Baka! You KNOW what will happen if they get mad at you! That would ruin this whole plan that Taiitsukun has!
The Seiryuu Seishi jumped up, making fists. "Care to repeat that fang boy?" Nakago growled. Chibi-Tasuki stared at the Seiryuu. "Ah! Uh. Yes?" They glared at him. "I mean no!" Taiitsukun shushed everyone, "Shut up you! You HAVE to be friends! I will make you room with each other if I must!"
Soi grinned slyly. Taiitsukun rolled her eyes. "Baka, not with the opposite sex! Soi would room with Miaka, Gurase, Nanuri, and Seshiri." Soi leaned back in her chair, pouting. Tasuki blinked. "What about Tomo?" "Is he female?" Taiitsukun asked. "Well.. No but close enough. He's more feminine than some of the girls in our group."
"Yeah! I don't want him alone with Nakago-sama…." Nuriko laughed, "I don't think any of us want to be alone with him!" Tomo glared at Nuriko. "Do not mock me. It wasn't long ago that you too were gay."
SD Nanuri shouted at Tomo. "HE WAS NOT! YOU TAKE THAT BACK, BASTARD!" SD Nuriko grabbed Chibi-Nanuri and held her back. "Nuri-chan! Calm down!!!" SD Tomo looked intently at his nails, filling them. Nanuri sat back down in her chair, continuing to glare at Tomo. Gurase sighed. "Taiitsukun-sama, I think it's time to call it a day." Amen to THAT!!!
Hotohori hugged Gurase and agreed. "I second that." He said, standing up. Seshiri nodded. As she stood up Ashitare growled at her. She jumped back, yelping. "Taiitsukun! You might want to change Ashitare now." Kaeli said, watching Ashitare uneasily.
Taiitsukun nodded. "Hai." She raised her hands closing her eyes. Under her breath she muttered a few words and waved her hands around.
Tasuki watched Ashitare, frowning. "What's s'posed to happen now?" He whispered to Seshiri, standing up. "I dunno." Seshiri said, watching. A glowing blue light enveloped Ashitare.
The blinding light filled the room, forcing everyone to shut their eyes tightly. When the light died away Seshiri opened her eyes, rubbing them. "N-Nani?!" She asked, eyes wide.
Ashitare was standing in front of them, fully clothed and looking like a normal person. They all stared at him, mouths open, eyes wide. He frantically looked around. "What.. Happened!??!" He dropped down to all fours, watching them with wide eyes. Taiitsukun grunted. "Ashitare, you can talk normally now."
Name: Ashitare
Occupation: nothing yet…
Age: 28
Hair: Jet black with a silver streak
Eyes: Gray
Ashitare stood up shakily. "I… Can?…." Tasuki snorted, "Obviously." Ashitare looked around the room, taking deep breaths. Silence filled the room as he studied everyone's faces. Gurase backed up into Hotohori's arms and he hugged her. Ashitare focused on Tasuki and Seshiri. "I remember you." He growled slightly. Tasuki took a step back, holding Seshiri.
Holy… Shit… Scared as hell here! PLEASE Tasuki don't let it near me! I can't believe it. He looks almost normal! Dammit. This is scary. Taiitsukun why are you making us do this? Stupid fucking Yokoshima. Capturing stupid fucking Yui. IT'S CUZ OF YOU WE HAVE TO HANG OUT WITH THESE… UGH……
Ashitare got down to his hands and knees and bowed to them. "G-Gomen nasai Tasuki and Seshiri. I regret what I did now. But I was under orders. I realize what I did was a mistake and I realize that-" Seshiri cut him off. "What the hell are you trying to do?"
He looked up startled. "Apologizing." Amiboshi prodded Ashitare. "Wow Taiitsukun-sama…. He can really think for himself now." Taiitsukun nodded, pleased with her work.
Ashitare, undaunted, got up. Holding his hands out he took a step towards Tasuki and Seshiri. Once again Tasuki backed up, holding Seshiri. Ashitare's face fell. "I know you don't trust me, but I hope that you will. I also hope you can forget the horrible things that I-" Nanuri spit at Ashitare.
"You expect her to forget all that shit? YOU killed the love of her life and she went fricking suicidal on us! Don't expect her to forget just cuz you say SORRY!"
Seshiri nodded. "My thoughts exactly." Ashitare's face fell. "Well I knew that, but I could still hope? Don't worry though… Now I can think for myself… And Nakago doesn't have his whip, so I can't be under his influence."
Tasuki growled. "I still don't trust you… Come on Seshiri." He pulled Seshiri away. "I think now is a good time to sleep." He said, keeping his glare on Ashitare. Taiitsukun nodded. "Hai. Nyan-Nyan will lead you all to your rooms."
Hugging Seshiri Tasuki nodded. "Ok, that works." He hugged Seshiri and kissed her gently. "Oyasumi Seshi-chan." "Oyasumi." She replied. Nyan-Nyan's appeared, jumping around. "NYAN-NYAN TAKE YOU TO YOUR ROOMS!" They squealed. Latching onto Seshiri's arm they pulled her away down the hall to where the girls slept.
~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~
Soi, Seshiri, Gurase, Miaka, and Nanuri all stood outside two of the rooms. Nyan-Nyans jumped around them, squealing. One of them sat, perched on Seshiri's shoulder. "Nyan-Nyan was told by Taiitsukun to put Nanuri, Miaka, and Soi in a room and Gurase and Nanuri are in another one!"
Tomo walked down the hall grumbling. He stood in front of them, muttering. "What's wrong Tomo?" Soi asked, walking over to him. He threw up his hands. "They kicked me out of the guys rooms because I'm 'Kakaka the homo'…" Soi laughed shrilly, and put a hand on Tomo's shoulder. "Well you will room with Gurase and Seshiri."
Woah. Weird. Soi is being… Semi-normal! This is a new thing for her! She ISN'T treating everyone like dirt! Hell she's even being nice to TOMO and she HATES him! I wonder what made her change her mind…. Strange.. Ugh… I can' t believe this. Rooming. With. TOMO. UGH I'd rather room with SOI! Well maybe not Miaka, she'd call out in her sleep for Tamahome…
Tomo walked into the room he was staying in with Gurase and Seshiri following. A Nyan-Nyan popped in and magically placed three beds in the room. Seshiri nodded a thanks to the Nyan-Nyan, dismissing it.
Seshiri jumped onto her bed, turning to face Gurase and Tomo. "Ok then." She said, watching Tomo uneasily. Wordlessly Tomo looked around the room. Gurase broke the silence. "So. Uh. Well. How's everyone doing?" Tomo jumped at her voice, turning around. "I am……… doing well, all things considered."
Seshiri groaned, laying back onto her bed. "This mission is going to be hell! You guys realize that right?" Gurase nodded solemnly. "I am not going to take this night of sleep for granted. Suzaku KNOWS what sleep we'll get on our quest." Seshiri nodded. It's going to be a looooooooooong trip….
~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~
Seshiri stood in front of Taiitsukun, listening. "And you ALL MUST be friends…. Kaeli is going to report to me every little thing that goes on that seems unfriendly." Nanuri's jaw dropped. "That's going to be a lot of things, you understand that, right?" Taiitsukun nodded, closing her eyes. "Unfortunately yes."
"So how are we starting out?" Hotohori asked, putting a hand on Gurase's shoulder. Taiitsukun opened her eyes saying, "I WOULD transport you all but-" "But?" Nuriko asked.
"I am not sure WHERE Yokoshima's fortress is… and… He is more powerful than I expected. He has.. put a barrier on certain powers of mine." Tamahome stared at Taiitsukun. "But, that would mean he's more powerful than you…"
Taiitsukun groaned. "No, just bending the rules of this universe. Until I find a way to stop it, I can not transport or heal you, should you come for my aid."
"Has he put the barrier on the Gods as well?" Chiriko asked, stepping forward. Taiitsukun looked down at him. "No. That would not be possible." Chiriko nodded. "I understand." Seshiri however didn't. "I don't really-" Tasuki shook his head. "Seshi-chan, just leave it be. The more she says the more confused you'll get." Seshiri nodded. "Good point.."
Taiitsukun sighed, grumbling. "How could I teach such a baka child as this. It must have been Chichiri's teaching.." Seshiri perked up her ears leaning forward. "What was that Taiitsukun?" Chibi-Taiitsukun looked up. "Nothing!"
Nakago looked at his nails, unconcerned. "So when are we leaving? And where are we going?" Taiitsukun floated over to him. "As soon as I supply you all with horses and supplies, you will be on your way."
A Nyan-Nyan bounced over to them. "Nyan-Nyan has gotten you all stuffies! Supplies an horsies an EVERYthing!" Miaka grinned at the Nyan-Nyan. "Good Nyan-Nyan! Arigatou!" Nyan-Nyan did a bow, and a somersault before popping away. Soi hovered around Nakago. "What a disgusting creature…"
Amiboshi smiled uncertainly. "I don't know, it's kind of cute." Suboshi smacked his brother upside the head. "Can we get on with this!? I want to find Yui-sama!" Taiitsukun waved her arms towards the doors. "Ok then. Bye."
Nuriko watched her. "Is that it?" He asked, heading for the door. Taiitsukun nodded. "Hai… I will be waiting. Do NOT screw this up!" "Have a little faith no da!" Chichiri said, grinning as he walked out the door.
Seshiri walked out the door following the others. As she stepped outside the scenery changed completely. Now she was outdoors in a forest, with a group of saddled up horses in front of her. She turned back to look back at Taiitsukun's palace and it was gone, in it's place was a shrubbery surrounded by more trees. Well this is it! No turning back now!
Walking over to her horse, Seshiri petted it. It snorted at her, shaking it's mane. Seshiri grinned and climbed into the saddle. She grabbed the reins and waited for the others to be on their horses.
Hotohori sat on his horse. "Hmm.. It's not quite the same as my old horse, but good enough I suppose…" He pulled Gurase up into the saddle with him, holding the reins carefully. She sat comfortably, leaning against him as she shot a grin over at Seshiri.
Tasuki led his horse over to Seshiri with his SD puppy dog eyes. "Seshi-chan! Are you sure you don't want to share a saddle?" Seshiri closed her eyes. Must not submit to adorable irresistible puppy dog eyes! "No Tasuki, it's ok! I'm fine!" She grinned at him. If I want to talk with Kaeli I CANT do it with him around.
"Okay, if you're REALLY sure.." He said, shooting her the chibi-bambi eyes. Seshiri shook her head, trying not to look into his eyes. "No! Tasuki it's fine! I'm ok.. don't worry I'll pay you back somehow!"
Nuriko reached over nudging Tasuki "Ya hear that? She's gonna pay you back!" SD Tasuki grinned mischievously. "Oooh ok!"
Meanwhile Gurase and Nanuri were talking. "No there is no WAY you are going to win the cutest couple award this year Gurase! Nuriko and I are going to win!" Gurase shook her head. "Nope nope nope, NO chance! Hotohori and I are beautiful together, cute, adorable, you NAME it!" Hotohori nodded. "Hai! Gurase's and my beauty go well together."
Nanuri raised an eyebrow at Hotohori. "Oh gods, he's starting to sound like an Emperor and NOT a teen…" Nuriko nodded. "Well you guys aren't going to win!" He said, butting into the conversation. Nanuri nodded. "I am not gonna let Nuriko out of my sight! There's no WAY you can win!" Gurase giggled. "So you'll go with him EVERYwhere?"
Nanuri blushed. "Damn straight! And it doesn't matter, we're MARRIED remember?" She showed Gurase her ring. "So? Hotohori and I are married too!" Tasuki blinked. "Hmm.." He looked over at Seshiri. "Is it just me or are we getting a little left out of this conversation?"
Seshiri shook her head. "Oh it's not just you!" Nakago yelled at them, "HEY! Are we EVER going to get there or what?" Kaeli spoke up. "Not until we find out where 'there' is…" They all turned to look at her. "Well how do we know where we're going to go?" Tamahome sighed, hugging Miaka who was sitting in front of him in the saddle. "How about we just explore everywhere…"
Chiriko nodded. "Hai, that would be a good tactic…" Kaeli rode her horse to the head and turned it back to face them. "Ok everyone. You can't go around talking about our mission… He has spies all around, you must NEVER mention his name, or it will get back to him that we are all working together."
Miboshi nodded. "Yes but isn't that kind of obvious already?" Kaeli shook her head. "Not to him. He has been known to miss the obvious facts. Be aware that everyone and every THING might be listening." She glanced at the sky quickly before continuing. "Be aware of this." Ashitare raised his hand. "Miss?" He asked, getting her attention.
"What?" She asked, looking down at him. "I'm having a little trouble getting onto my horse….. can't I just… run along side?" They all stared down at him. Mitsukake spoke up. "I do not think that would be wise." Chiriko nodded. "By now we are nothing but myths to the people here. A man running beside a group of horses would seem odd, would it not?"
Nanuri's jaw dropped. "We're MYTHS?" Chiriko shrugged. "I am not sure, but it would appear so." Nuriko laughed. "Well I must be known for my incredible fashion sense." He shot Soi a meaningful look. Kaeli smiled at Chiriko, ignoring Nuriko.
"Very good thinking. He IS correct. By now there are dozens of children named after you. While spying for Taiitsukun just yesterday I met a young boy going by the name of Hotohori." Hotohori smiled, glowing. "Well it IS a very sensible name."
Tomo cleared his throat. "MOVING on, I say we go to Ku'tou first." The Seiryuu Seishi nodded, agreeing with him. Kaeli shook her head. "I'm afraid not, that would be second. Konan is closest, so it is first.
The Seiryuu rolled their eyes. Tamahome and Miaka moved up to the front of the group, leading the way to Konan.
~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~
Seshiri's horse trotted up to Kaeli. "Oi!" Seshiri called, riding up so she was beside her. "Hey!" Seshiri said, grinning. Kaeli turned back to her. "Hi…." "So, Kaeli. What's happening?" Kaeli raised an eyebrow. "Uh… well… nothing…" Seshiri stared at her. "Uh… yeah… right.." Hmm… Not very talkative I see… I'll just have to calmly somehow introduce Chichiri into the conversation.
"Do you love Chichiri?" Chibi-Seshiri blurted out. SD Kaeli fell over. Oh smooooth Seshiri, real smooth…. Chibi-Kaeli jumped back up. Seshiri tried to look at her innocently. Kaeli chuckled softly. "No, baka, of course not. He is just a childhood friend that I knew a long time ago." Seshiri sighed. "Are you SURE? You guys would be a cute couple."
Chibi-Nuriko and Chibi-Nanuri listened in. "But not as cute as us!" Nuriko stated proudly. Seshiri rolled her eyes. "Ignore them. They're in contest mode." Kaeli nodded with a confused expression on her face. Well this isn't going anywhere….. abort mission! Abort! Abort! Seshiri looked around and said, "Well uh. See you around…." Kaeli nodded, turning her eyes back to the trail.
Dammit. It's no fun playing matchmaker when the victims don't play along! Seshiri thought as she walked her horse over to Tasuki. Tasuki raised an eyebrow at Seshiri. "Why so down?" She sighed. "Kaeli doesn't like Chichiri. She claims it's just a friendship." He grinned at her. "Well you know how most 'friendships' turn out!" Seshiri grinned back at him. "Good point. BUT!" Chibi-Seshiri raised a fist in the air. "Hopefully with MY help it will all happen in LUDICROUS SPEED!"
Chibi-Tasuki fell over. "No no! That's not it dammit!" SD Seshiri laughed at him. "HAHA YOU FELL OFF THE-" Her horse came to an abrupt stop and she went flying out of the saddle. "AAAAAHHHHH!" Chibi-Seshiri yelled as she fell face down into a puddle of mud. "We're stopping for a while here!" Tamahome called back to the group, getting off his horse.
Chibi-Tasuki looked over at SD Seshiri in the mud. "HAHA!" He pointed, laughing at her. "THAT'S what you get for laughing at ME!" Chibi-Seshiri sat up grumbling. "Fuddrucker!" She said, trying to wipe off the mud. Amiboshi walked over to the two, kneeling down next to Seshiri. "Seshi-chan. You might want to clean up before we get started again." He said, trying not to laugh.
Tomo turned his nose up at them. "What is that girl doing, wallowing in the mud?! Ugh. The mud caked all over her clothes!" Seshiri looked over at Tomo, overhearing his grumblings. "Oh and you think I did this on purpose?"
Tomo quickly turned his back to them, taking a drink of his water. SD Seshiri stuck her tongue out at his back, crossing her eyes. He swiveled around as Amiboshi tried not to laugh. All he saw was Seshiri looking off to the side whistling.
Grumbling he walked over to Nakago. Seshiri grinned. "Well I am going to get a drink cuz I'm really really thirsty!" Tasuki nodded, walking over to her he helped her to her feet. "Arigatou Tas-kun!" She purred. He grinned at her, off guard just as she pushed him into the puddle. She grinned triumphantly. "And THAT'S what YOU get for laughing at ME!"
He quickly made a mud ball and threw it at her. Dodging the missals she used Amiboshi as a shield. "Hey!!!" Amiboshi protested. "Agh! Not fair! Hey! Seshi-chan let go!" He yelled as he got pounded with mud. "Gomen Amiboshi ol' pal!" SD Tasuki said, getting out of the mud.
SD Seshiri ran from her hiding spot behind Amiboshi, racing away from Tasuki who quickly followed her. "Come back here!" He yelled, "You don't wanna mess with me! My power is speed!"
He ran up until he was in front of Seshiri. Turning around to face her he stopped running. Seshiri ran right into his arms and they both fell over.
Soi snorted at the couple before turning back to glance longingly at Nakago, who ignored her completely.
Seshiri grinned up at Tasuki, giggling "Are you gonna let me up?" He shook his head. "No, I don't think I am, not right now!" He said, leaning down and kissing her. She grinned as he pulled back. "Well… that's fine with me!" She said, grinning slyly. He laughed, kissing her repeatedly.
"AHEM!" Nanuri said, getting their attention. Seshiri groaned. "Nanuri! WHAT DO YOU WANT?" Nuriko stood beside her. "Don't you think you're going to steal the cutest couple award!" He said, hugging Nanuri.
Tasuki sat up. "What the hell?" Gurase walked over. "Yeah! It's RIGHTFULLY ours!" Seshiri sat up, watching them. "We are not trying to steal your title or whatever!" Gurase watched them suspiciously. "I don't know…." Seshiri plopped back down. "GODS! You guys! Stop being so paranoid about this stupid contest! Tamahome and Miaka are probably gonna win ANYways!"
She gestured over to where Tamahome and Miaka sat, cuddling. Gurase sighed. "Maybe…" "AND BESIDES!" Seshiri said. "Don't be so worked up over a small contest! For all you know you might not live through this!" Tasuki nodded. "Seshi-chan an I learned that the HARD way…"
Seshiri nodded. "Just take advantage of life while you still can!" "Yeah… you're right…" Gurase said, sighing. Nanuri nodded "Yeah… Good point.. Well… Yeah.." Nanuri walked away hand-in-hand with Nuriko. "We're still going to win.." She grumbled.
Gurase walked after them. "Are not!"
Seshiri rolled her eyes. "Oi. Is it just me or are they a little too obsessed with that contest?" Tasuki nodded. "They should appreciate the finer things in life!" Seshiri giggled. "Like what Tas-kun?" Chibi-Tasuki laughed nervously. "Ohhh I don't know!"
Tasuki stood up, pulling Seshiri to her feet. "While we have this moment alone um.. I'd like to ask you something…." Seshiri gave him a puzzled look nodding. "Ok. Whatcha wanna ask?" "Well.." He took Seshiri's hand in his. "Seeing as we wont get a moment alone for a while…." Chibi-Seshiri waited for him to continue.
Hmmm. This is weird. I wonder what's on his mind. Gah.. I'll just have to wait for him to spit it out.
"Well… I mean.. Um.. Nanuri and Nuriko are married. And so are Gurase and Hotohori… and um.." And um? Come on TELL me! You're not giving me much to work with here! "Well…. Sometimes I feel a little left out of their conversations cuz we ain't married… so I was wondering.. if when this is all over… would you…" He gulped. "Would you marry me?"
Seshiri laughed. "Nani? You wanna marry me because you feel left out?" Chibi-Tasuki fell over. "No! No! That's not it at all! Gah! That didn't come out the way I wanted it to!" SD Seshiri grinned. "Baka I know what you meant. Hee, sorry to ruin the moment…" He grinned sheepishly. "'s ok.. So… Do you.. When this is all over." Seshiri sighed. "But what if we don't make it throughout this whole time! Like last time!"
Tasuki shrugged. "Well that's just a chance we're going to have to take! We can't get married NOW, it's too hard and we're too busy…" Seshiri nodded. "Yeah.. you're right…" He looked at her uncertainly. "So do you..?" Seshiri looked up at him and grinned. "Hai!"
He leaned over to her and whispered, "Ai shiteru Seshiri." He put his arms around her. "Ai shiteru, Tasuki." She replied, gazing into his eyes.
Chiriko interrupted. "What are you two doing?" SD Tasuki and SD Seshiri fell over. Sweat dropping Chibi-Seshiri sighed at Chiriko. "Nothing Chiriko…" Chiriko shook his head. "No no, continue…" The Chibis looked at each other wide-eyed before shaking their heads.
"Chiriko, I don't think.." Seshiri began, stuttering. "Yeah.. uhm.. You aren't… Uh…" Tasuki finished. Chiriko cocked his head. "I'm not what? What were you two doing." Chibi-Tasuki hugged Seshiri triumphantly. "Proposing!" Chiriko jumped up, clasping his tiny hands together. "REALLY?"
Seshiri grinned and nodded. "Hai!!!!" "Oh how WONDERFUL!" Chiriko then raced off to tell the others. Tasuki grinned down at Seshiri, still in his arms. "Wau! Chiriko is excited! He's usually only this hyped up when he's reading a good book!" Seshiri laughed and kissed Tasuki. "Well he'll spread the word for us!" Tasuki hugged Seshiri before taking her hand and walking towards the others.
Chibi-Miaka ran over to them starry-eyed. "SUGOI! A WEDDING A WEDDING! It's about TIME you guys got married!" Wau! Miaka said something smart! Amazing! What the- Nanuri and Gurase raced over to where Miaka, Tasuki, and Seshiri were standing, trampling Miaka. "IS IT TRUE?" Chibi-Gurase shouted. "IS IT REALLY HAPPENING?" SD Nanuri asked. Chibi-Gurase throttled Seshiri. "YOU AREN'T JUST SAYING THIS TO GET OUR HOPES UP?"
A bewildered Chibi-Seshiri stared at them. "Bakas of course we aren't making it up!" She said, staring at them. The Chibi Gurase and Nanuri jumped up and down. "FINALLY!" "SUGOI!" The two started victory dancing, humming a catching tune.
Seshiri pointed and laughed at them. "Have you REALLY been waiting that long for us to get married?!" Seshiri asked. Nanuri nodded. "Yeah. But BAKA here didn't have the guts to do it!" She whapped Tasuki's head.
Tasuki rubbed his head. "I DID TOO!" "Then why didn't you ask sooner?" Gurase asked, waiting for an answer. Tasuki stuttered. "W-well uhm.. I was uh busy with um. School.. and.. stuff…" Nanuri rolled her eyes. "Suuuuure."
Nuriko and Hotohori made there way to the small group, grinning. Nuriko grinned evilly. "So fang-boy finally came out and asked?" Tasuki rolled his eyes. "DON'T call me FANG-BOY!"
SD Miaka shouted up at them. "OI! NANURI! GURASE! STOP STANDING ON MEEEEEEE! TAMAHOMEEEEE!!!!" Tamahome ran over to where Miaka was calling for him. "Where's Miaka?" He asked, looking around. Nanuri stepped off of Miaka, pulling Gurase off too. "Ah.. Gomen nasai Miaka-chan!" They said in union.
Miaka stood up, brushing herself off. "No problem!!!" Tamahome hugged her, pulling her away.
Kaeli walked over to them quietly saying, "You might want to get all ready, we depart in a few minutes." Tasuki nodded. "Hai, ok." Kaeli nodded to them before walking back to her horse.
Chichiri walked over to them grinning. "Congratulations no da!!! It's about time no da!" Tasuki laughed. "Hmmm, maybe we should have gotten married sooner!" Chichiri turned his back to them saying. "Well I suggest you get your horses ready no da!" Then he walked over to where his horse was standing.
Nuriko pulled Nanuri off to where they could talk in private while Hotohori and Gurase walked over to their horse.
Tasuki and Seshiri began to walk over to Tasuki's horse when they were stopped by Amiboshi. Amiboshi looked at the two of them smiling. "Hey, congratulations on the wedding you guys!" Suboshi, who was adjusting the straps of the saddle nodded. "Yeah. That's pretty cool…" Soi glared at them. "Yes congratulations." She sneered. "I hope you two will be so very happy."
Seshiri ignored the tone of her voice and grinned. "Arigatou Soi! Be sure to invite us to YOUR wedding if you have one!" Soi's jaw dropped and she turned away in a huff and walked over to where Nakago was standing.
Ashitare made his way to Seshiri and Tasuki. "I.. would like to wish you happy tidings in your marriage." He said gruffly. Tasuki nodded to him and began to pull Seshiri back to his horse. "I would really like to apologize…" Ashitare said quickly before they could leave.
Seshiri stayed silent, avoiding Ashitare's eyes. I know that dammit but 'I'm sorry' isn't enough! It's not good enough, too late. Everything's ok NOW but you took away years that Tasuki and I could have spent together in a few instants.
After an awkward silence Seshiri forced a smile. "Thank you." She said, before quickly pulling Tasuki away. Ashitare's face fell and he turned his back to them, sighing.
"Gah… Why does Ashitare keep comin' up to us? Miboshi knows better! He knows that if he even got within a few feet of you…" Tasuki cracked his knuckles. Seshiri smiled over at him. "Thanks for uh the reassurance!" Tasuki smirked. "I almost wish that guy would TRY to come near you…. Just so I could POUND him!" Tasuki slammed his fist into his palm.
Seshiri raised an eyebrow. "Such violence in a young teen!" SD Tasuki poked her. "Hey… Seshi-chan, would you ride with me this time?" Seshiri nodded, smiling coyly at him. Chibi-Tasuki raced up to his horse, holding his hand out for her to come. SD Seshiri laughed, running over to him.
He pushed her up onto the horse before jumping on himself. "We're all ready!!!!!" He announced, trotting the horse over to where everyone else was saddling up. Seshiri reached over, grabbing the halter of the other horse she had been using before and tied the reigns to Tasuki's horse's saddle.
"Now Seshi-chan" He warned. "This horse is a little…. Uh… let's see what's the best word…. Bitchy."
At these words the horse turned it's head sideways and snorted. Seshiri laughed. "Baka, the more you say the angrier it gets!" Tasuki poked her. "Hey, who's drivin this thing, you or me?"
Seshiri grinned and poked him back. "You are of course!" He nodded. "So since I'm the captain of this… horse.. whatever I say is ok!" Seshiri shrugged. "Yeah but that doesn't mean it's correct!" Tasuki growled playfully. "Seshi-chan!" Seshiri grinned. "Kidding, baka."
Kaeli whistled for everyone to follow her on the long trudge to Konan.
~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~
Seshiri yawned, half asleep. Tasuki held her tightly, making sure she didn't fall out of the saddle. "I'm so tired…" She mumbled. "When can we stop?" She asked with a groan. He patted her head. "I don't know Seshi-chan. The Slave-Driver here is making us go until we get to Konan it would seem…"
Seshiri yawned again, her eyes drooping. Amiboshi came up to walk his horse next to them. He smiled over at them. "Konban wa!" Seshiri groaned, rubbing her eyes and looking over at him. "Gah… How can you be so perky? It's LATE!"
Amiboshi shrugged. "I dunno! The crisp air, the shining stars, the FRESH air…" Seshiri nodded. "Hai, you're right the air here IS cleaner." "Well here they don't have cars or big smoky industries." Tasuki commented.
Amiboshi nodded. "Yeah…. So when do you think we'll get to Konan?" He asked. "Who knows…" Tasuki grumbled, glaring at Kaeli's back.
Suboshi moved over to the other side of Amiboshi. "Konban wa guys.." Seshiri smiled and waved half-heartedly. "So tired.." She mumbled. Suboshi nodded. "Hai, I know what you mean……" Seshiri looked up at the twinkling stars, smiling slightly.
"Hey Tasuki…" She said, pointing up. "There's you!" He looked up grinning. "Yup!" He gave her a little hug before turning his eyes back to the path. Amiboshi sighed. "We can't see our stars from here." Suboshi rolled his eyes. "Well duh, baka, those are the Ku'tou stars aka Seiryuu's stars! We'll only see them if we go to Ku'tou."
Amiboshi nodded. "Well… See you guys around…" He dropped his horse back to where Miaka and Tamahome were.
Suboshi sighed. "See what I have to deal with all day?" He joked. Seshiri grinned at Suboshi saying, "Oh yeah, SO hard to deal with!" He grinned back before following his brother.
Seshiri nestled back against Tasuki, looking back up at the stars.
They're nice guys I guess… Not so bad as they were the first time… Maybe this life was a little different so Suboshi isn't as screwed up as he was in the last life! Wait a minute… what's that? Seshiri sat up quickly, straining to see something in the distance.
Chibi-Seshiri yelled. "LIGHTS!!!!!!!!!!! LOOK GUYS LOOK LOOK OMGOMGOMGOMG LOOOOOK! IT'S THE KONAN CAPITAL! LOOKY! LOOOK! OMGOMGOMG WE'RE ACTUALLY HERE!"
SD Tasuki looked around her. "WAI!!!!" He yelled, grinning. Nanuri whooped and Nuriko whistled loudly. A chorus of 'Wai's and 'Sugoi's were heard from the travelers.
"Come on Tas-kun! If we speed it up we'll be there in no time!" SD Tasuki nodded, kicking his horse into a gallop.
~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~
SD Seshiri looked around at the lights and the people as they entered the gates. "TASUKI!" She squealed. "Do you know what this is!?!??!" SD Tasuki looked around puzzled. "Uh.. Konan?" "BAKA! It's the starry-night festival!!!!!!!!"
Chibi-Tasuki gasped. "No!" "Yes!" "No!" "YES!" "Seshi-chan! That would mean this is our anniversary!!!!!!" Seshiri squealed. "YES!!!!!"
Tasuki threw back his head laughed. "OI! NANURI! NURIKO! THE STARRY-NIGHT FESTIVAL!" Nuriko's eyes widened. "Wau! You're RIGHT!" Nanuri squealed like Seshiri. "OMG OMG YOU'RE RIGHT! THIS IS THE FIRST DAY I MET NURIKO!!!!!" Nuriko grinned hugging her.
Seshiri laughed. "I REMEMBER! The first time he saw you his jaw dropped and he began drooling!" Nuriko gave her a look. "I did not drool!" Nanuri giggled. "Did too!"
Gurase yelled. "Hey! I feel left out! I wasn't there, REMEMBER?" Seshiri winced. "Sorry Gurase-chan…"
Tasuki's eyes twinkled as the group rode their horses through the crowd. "Seshi-chan, you realize I proposed on the same day that I confessed I loved you?" Seshiri grinned. "Except a few hundred years later!"
Tasuki blinked. "Heyyy! You're right!" Nanuri overheard them. "Waaaauuu that's CREEPY!" She shuddered. SD Seshiri reached over and whapped her. "IS NOT! IT'S ROMANTIC!"
"CREEPY!" Nanuri retorted. "ROMANTIC!" "CREEPY!" "ROMANTIC!" "Jeeezuz CHRIST you guys are acting like KIDS!" Soi said, laughing slightly. "Kids, I don't know what it is with these kids today!" She chuckled. SD Seshiri looked back at her. "Well this is a very meaningful day for me!"
Chibi-Soi nodded. "Yeah, I kinda figured that out." She raised her fist in the air. "I SAY WE CELEBRATE!" Hmmm. Celebrate… Maybe Soi isn't half bad!
"WAIIIII!" They cheered, ignoring the strange glances they were getting from the crowd.
"BUT FIRST!" Gurase yelled. "We need a place to stay!" They all fell silent looking around. Hotohori smiled. "Good thinking Gurase… But.. I have to say.. Konan DOES Look different from the last time I was here…." They all looked around, realizing for the first time that everything had changed.
Seshiri shot nervous glances all around. "Omg you're right…. Ok now THIS is creepy…" Tasuki nodded. Tamahome looked around. "This IS strange. I've lived here all my life and I don't see any familiar buildings!" Hotohori tried to make himself taller. "Maybe if we try to find the palace first?"
"But what if someone recognizes us?" Seshiri asked. "BAKA!" Gurase laughed. "It's been a while since we've been here!" Nanuri nodded. "A LONG while!" Seshiri blinked. "Oh! DUH!"
Tasuki pointed over to a sign hanging from a house. –Inn-
"We could stay there ya know.." He said, laughing to himself. Kaeli nodded. "We might as well stay there."
She jumped off her horse and led it around the back.
Mitsukake volunteered to take the other horses as everyone grabbed their packs. Seshiri pulled Tasuki into the Inn, looking around. She headed for the front desk, catching the person standing there's eye.
The woman looked over at them. "Yeah?" She asked. SD Seshiri grinned at her. "HELLO! What's your name?" "Rachia…. What do you want?" SD Seshiri continued to grin. "We'd like a room for the night please!" Rachia nodded, handing her a key.
Seshiri stared down at it before glancing up at Rachia. Dang. Imagine all of us crammed into one room! She shuddered. Wait.. maybe she thinks it's just me an Tasuki!!!!
"We aren't married YET ya know!" She said loudly. SD Rachia blinked. "Uh… oookay… you want 2 keys?" Seshiri shook her head. "Then what the hell do you want???" Rachia asked. "It makes no sense! If you don't wanna share a room then you get two rooms!"
Tasuki laughed. "We aren't the only ones here! There's a whole band of us!" On cue they all arrived, pushing their ways through the doors. "What took you so long?" Tasuki asked, turning to them. "Gomen nasai!" Nuriko said. "We were a little caught up with the lights and-" "The candy!" Gurase cut off, holding some up.
Tasuki rolled his eyes. Rachia stared in horror at the group. "You ALL want separate rooms!?!?" She fumbled around grabbing some keys and counting them. "I'm not sure we have enough for everyone!!!!!" Nakago strode up to the front. "No, lady some of us can share rooms!"
Rachia breathed a sigh of relief. "Oh good… Now.. how many keys?" Nakago turned back. "Well Ashitare, Miboshi, and I can share a room…" "Suboshi, Amiboshi, Mitsukake can share." Chiriko voiced up. "Tasuki, Nu-" Nanuri shook her head. "NOPE! Nuriko and I are going to have a room together!"
"Ok." Nakago frowned, frustrated. "So, Miaka and Tamahome, Nanuri and Nuriko, Gurase and Hotohori, Chiriko and Chichiri and Tasuki, Soi and Seshiri as well as Tomo…." "And I'll have my own room…" Kaeli said.
Rachia stared blankly at them. "So.. how many keys?" They all looked down adding it up. Chiriko quickly answered. "7." Rachia nodded, grabbing 7 keys.
"Damn.. we're gonna have a full house tonight." She grumbled. Nanuri grabbed her key holding it up like it was a treasure. "COME ON NURIKO!" She yelled, grabbing his arm. "BYE EVERYONE! SEE YA TOMORROW!" She yelled pulling him up the stairs.
Rachia looked down as all the keys were grabbed and people raced up to put away their packs.
Tasuki walked back downstairs ahead of Seshiri. "But Seshi-chan! We're getting married! Can't we-" "Nope." "But jus for-" "Nope." "But I mean-" "Nope." "DAMMIT!" Chibi-Tasuki yelled. "Not fair…" He whined. "Nuriko and Nanuri-" "I don't GIVE a damn about Nuriko and Nanuri!" SD Seshiri said.
"WE are not married!" She continued. "THEY are!" SD Tasuki grumbled. "Fine fine fine.."
SD Nuriko and Nanuri ran back down the stairs to where the others were. "Nanuri! Nuriko!" Chibi-Seshiri stared at them. "That was FAST!" A blushing Chibi-Nanuri whapped Seshiri. "BAKA! WE DIDN'T! we decided to come down and celebrate first!"
SD Tasuki thought. "Well.. isn't that a way to celebrate?" "BAKA!" Chibi-Nuriko whapped SD Tasuki into the wall. "We decided to come down HERE to celebrate!"
SD Gurase scrunched up her face. "EEEWWW!" "BAAAKAAAA!" SD Nuriko and SD Nanuri yelled, pouncing on SD Gurase.
"We just wanted a few drinks!" SD Nuriko laughed, standing up straight. Tomo sniffed in their direction. "I can see why!" Chibi-Nuriko punched SD Tomo into the wall. "SHUT UP!" SD Nanuri yelled.
Seshiri looked around and spotted SD Rachia, who was staring at them in horror. "Uh. Gomen nasai! We're a very…. Interesting group…" SD Rachia nodded before running into the back office.
SD Seshiri laughed nervously. "WELL!" She said. SD Miaka ran over to them dragging a Chibi-Tamahome. "LET'S GO AND TRY AN ENJOY OURSELVES AS MUCH AS WE CAN!" "WAAAAIII!" "YEAAAH!" They all yelled, turning Chibi and throwing their fists in the air.
~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~
SD Seshiri leaned over a bowl of cookies. "Mmmmmmm….." SD Nanuri leaned over her shoulder. "Hey! Get me some! Get me some!" "AND ME!" SD Gurase yelled, reaching over Seshiri's other shoulder. "MIIIINE!" SD Seshiri yelled, pulling away.
SD Tasuki came up behind her. "HEYLA SESHI-CHAN!" SD Seshiri looked at him, her mouth stuffed with cookies. "Mmmf mfama phmamf!!!!!!" SD Tasuki laughed. "Yeah! This IS loads of fun!" Ashitare, a short distance away, tried to get Tasuki's attention.
Tasuki tried to ignore him. "Agh.. he's really creeping me out…" He said quietly. "Whatcha mean?" Seshiri asked, puzzled. "He keeps asking me to follow him into dark shadowy places…" Seshiri looked around Tasuki at Ashitare.
She shuddered. "HEY TAS-KUN! TRY TO WIN ONE OF THESE FOR SESHIRI!!!!" SD Nuriko pointed at an orange stuffed bear. "OK!" Tasuki said, running over. "Watch Seshi-chan! I'm gonna win it for ya!…. um.. how do I play?" He asked, turning to the vendor.
Chibi-Seshiri grinned and was about to get up when she felt a hand on her shoulder. "Seshi-chan?" Ashitare asked. Oh Gods what does he want? Tasuki! Where are you? She looked over at where Tasuki was standing, busy playing the game. She looked out for help from anyone but they were all busy.
"Seshi-chan.. I'd like to talk to you…" Ashitare said quietly, pulling her into the darkness. Seshiri unwillingly obeyed, seeing as he did have his hand tightly grasping her arm.
She tried to ignore the fact that he was pulling her farther and farther away from their group.
"N-nani?" She asked nervously, looking back around at Tasuki. "Let's not talk here, Ashitare… um.. let's go back into the light." "No." He said in a strong voice. Seshiri quickly looked back at him, her eyes full of fear. "I want to talk here." Seshiri gulped and nervously asked, "S-so what…" She cleared her throat. "What do you want to talk about?"
He didn't seem to notice that he grasped her arm tightly. "I want to say I'm sorry." Seshiri tried to pull away but his hold tightened. "Yeah, yeah, I understand! You said that already a bunch of times! Well if you don't mind I'd like to-" Suddenly Seshiri fell to her knees.
Ashitare's fingernails dug deep into her skin and a few drops of blood appeared. "Gomen Seshi-chan!" Ashitare gasped. Ashitare tried to help her to her feet, and noticed the blood.
His eyes widened as he stared at the drops. Seshiri stared up at him, pale. He let out a growl and his mouth flew to where the blood had dripped. Seshiri let out an ear piercing scream, trying to pull away.
Tasuki looked up quickly over at Seshiri struggling in the darkness with Ashitare. His eyes narrowed he began to run towards them. He forced his way through the crowd trying to get to where Ashitare and Seshiri were.
Ashitare, caught in a wild frenzy, bit her arm, trying to get more of the blood. people passing by gave them strange looks, offered no help. In instants Tasuki had appeared next to them. He tried to get Ashitare separate from Seshiri.
Ashitare's eyes had gone white as he fought to stay near the human flesh. Tasuki slammed him back against the wall, holding his shirt. "ASHITARE WHAT THE FUCK IS YOUR PROBLEM!?"
Seshiri fell back against Nanuri, who had heard her screams as well and come rushing. Gurase ran over. "What happened? I could have sworn I heard Seshiri-… Seshiri! What-?" "A-Ashitare!" Seshiri whispered, stumbling back. "He.. He's a-a horrible CANNIBALISTIC… ANIMAL!"
Tasuki kept Ashitare pinned up against the wall. He glared into Ashitare's eyes as they returned to normal. "Ashitare." He growled. "Don't you DARE come ANYwhere near Seshi-chan, or I swear to Suzaku I will tear you to PIECES, pact or no pact!"
Ashitare shook his head quickly. "N-nani? W-what happened?" He asked, stumbling over his words. Tasuki's eyes narrowed further. Letting go of Ashitare he turned back to Seshiri, leading her away.
"Seshi-chan.." He said quietly as they came back into the light. "What happened?" Seshiri sobbed, clutching his shirt. "H-he pulled me into the shadows! Farther and farther away from you!… and-and then he.. he cut me with his nails… on accident I think.. but.. but then.. h-he lunged at my arm… and-and he began to bite my arm! I-it was like he was trying to eat me alive!"
Tasuki pulled Seshiri close, holding her. "It's ok Seshi-chan." He said quietly, closing his eyes. "Don't worry… he wont come near you again… I'll make SURE of it…"
Seshiri nodded, looking up at Tasuki. "Come on." He said. "Let's get Mitsukake to see your arm…" Seshiri dried her tears, nodding.
~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~
That night Seshiri held the orange teddy bear, that Tasuki HAD won. "That was just really freaky…" She said. Soi nodded. "Ugh I know. Ashitare really creeps me out…" Seshiri nodded back at Soi, grinning. "Hey, you aren't as bitchy as I thought you were!" Soi looked at her with surprise. "Right back at ya!" Tomo sat in a chair, watching them.
Soi shuddered. "It was really weird. After you and Tasuki left, Nanuri tried an experiment." "Experiment?" Seshiri asked, frowning. Soi nodded. "Hai." "You were there?" Soi nodded.
"You probably didn't even notice me but I wasn't that far away, and saw the whole thing." "Oh." "Well anyway, she pricked her finger and gave a drop of blood to Ashitare."
Seshiri's eyes widened. "Is she CRAZY?" Soi shook her head. "I don't know what she was doing, but I think she wanted to see if Ashitare would go all crazy again." "Did he?" Soi nodded. "Kind of. Not as crazy as before because it wasn't a lot of blood."
Seshiri shuddered. "Ugh…" Tomo stood up and walked over to Soi. "I just feel bad for whoever has to ROOM with him!" Seshiri nodded. "Ew.. I would HATE that! TORTURE!" Tomo shuddered. "Ugh, yeah I KNOW!"
Hey this isn't half bad! The Seiryuu are pretty ok when Nakago isn't all deranged and like forcing them to be all evil and stuff! Well they were pretty fricked up with to begin with but now they aren't that bad.
"Ok, well, I'm tired, so I'm just gonna crash." Soi said, getting into her bed and pulling up the blankets. "Night everyone… Seshiri-the lights?" Seshiri nodded, closing her eyes and muttering.
Instantly the lights flickered off. "Ah." She said, smirking. "It feels good to be doing spells again!" Tomo got into his bed. "Well. Oyasumi minna-san." He said, closing his eyes.
Seshiri rolled over in her bed, closing her eyes and falling asleep.
~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~
Seshiri woke up as the sunlight shined through her window. She sat up with a yawn, groaning. She rubbed her eyes and looked around the empty room. "Nani?" She asked groggily. She got up. Where's Soi and Tomo? Hm. Downstairs I suppose. I might as well go down too. She set her orange bear aside, throwing her legs out of bed.
She quickly dressed and ran downstairs. "I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU CAN'T TAKE A JOKE!" Nanuri's voice rang out, echoing through the building. "WELL IT DIDN'T EXACTLY SEEM LIKE A JOKE AT THE TIME!"
Nuriko replied, just as loud. "UGH! I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU! YOU SHOULD KNOW BY NOW WHEN I'M JOKING OR NOT!" Seshiri poked her head around a corner, following the voices.
NANI?! "WELL YOU SHOULD KNOW BETTER NOT TO JOKE ABOUT THAT KIND OF THING!" "UGH! NURIKO! DO NOT MESS WITH ME RIGHT NOW! I AM NOT FEELING GOOD!"
Nuriko answered. "OK I DON'T GIVE A DAMN RIGHT NOW!" "UGH! I HATE YOU!!!!!!!" With a slam of the door Nuriko stomped out of their room, quickly going down the stairs.
He saw Seshiri, pausing for a moment before shaking his head and continuing down the stairs. Seshiri stared at him before looking up at the door. She quickly ran into the room. "Nanuri! What happened?" Nanuri looked over at her with a tear-stained face. "Can you believe him?"
Seshiri sat down on the bed beside Nanuri. "I can't believe him!" "What happened?" "He claims that I was a real bitch to him this morning! And I WASN'T I was in HERE the whole fricking TIME! I don't GET it!"
Seshiri cocked her head to the side, waiting for Nanuri to continue. "I just don't get it! Then I made ONE little comment about him PMSing, totally joking of COURSE!" Seshiri nodded.
"And then he BLOWS up saying that's the last straw! You must of heard us!" Seshiri stuttered. "Uh.. uh well uh.. just a little bit.." Nanuri stood up and paced around the room. "AND to top it off I keep feeling like I'm going to throw up!"
Seshiri reached out to hug Nanuri, but stopped as Nanuri turned pale. "Uh… 'scuse me!" She mumbled before racing over to a bucket and throwing up. Seshiri winced. "Ugh that does not sound pretty." Nanuri groaned and stood back up. "At least the bucket is THERE…." Nanuri quickly kneeled back down to the bucket and threw up.
Seshiri closed her eyes. "Ugh. Well I'm going to go downstairs… come with?" Nanuri nodded, wiping her mouth. "Ugh… maybe Mitsukake can find out why the hell I feel so damn bad!"
"How did the bucket happen to be there?" Seshiri asked, standing up. Nanuri sighed. "I had it ordered in this morning." Seshiri nodded. "Oooh ok…" They both walked out into the hall where Gurase was coming down the stairs.
"What was all that yelling?" "Oh gods. Nanuri and Nuriko got in a huge fight." "AND I'm not feeling all that good." "So where's Hotohori?" "He went downstairs already." Gurase said, smiling. "Oh, k. well, come down with us?" "Well duh!" Gurase laughed.
They all walked downstairs where everyone else was gathered around a table. "Oi, where's Tasuki?" Seshiri asked, looking around.
"I dunno." Miaka said. "He was here a few minutes ago! So was Nuriko! But… Nanuri! Seshiri! Didn't you guys go off that way with them?" She pointed behind them.
Seshiri quirked an eyebrow. "Nooooo….." Nanuri shook her head. "No way! I'm in a fight with him!" Miaka blinked. Tamahome answered, "Nani? But. You guys just made up a few seconds ago!"
Nanuri blinked. "Nooo… I've been upstairs throwing up into a BUCKET…" Hotohori walked over to them.
"But that's impossible! You and Seshiri were just…" He shook his head. "This isn't making sense…" He hugged Gurase, kissing her. "Ohaiyo gozaimasu!" Gurase giggled, kissing him back. "So what's the plan?"
Chichiri stood up. "Well we're deciding that now no da! Join us no da?" They nodded.
Nanuri looked over at Mitsukake, beckoning him away from the group. "Mitsukake, I'm not feeling very good… I was wondering if you could figure out why?" Mitsukake nodded. "Well I'll do my best!"
Seshiri sighed, looking over at Ashitare, who was ignoring her completely. "So, what are we going to do?"
"Well." Kaeli said. "Like I was saying before you guys came down, it would be best to search everywhere. Go visit the Konan palace, ask around the Konan capital. Then if we have nothing we go to Ku'tou and do the same there. Then on to Sairou and Hokkan."
Seshiri nodded. "Yeah, that makes sense.. but before we talk anymore, could we PLEASE have something to eat?"
Soi nodded. "Yeah, I'm starved! We've been here listening to Kaeli the whole time." "HEEEY! YOU!" Miaka called out to a waiter walking by. "Food?" He nodded and walked over to the kitchens.
A squeal from Nanuri made everyone jump. "OMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMG NO FRICKING WAY!" Mitsukake nodded. "I'm afraid so."
"EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE THAT'S WONDERFUL!" SD Nanuri raced back to the group. "SESHIRI! GURASE! GUESS WHAT?" "What?" They asked in union. "I'M PREGNANT!"
SD Gurase jumped to her feet, running over to Nanuri. "NO WAY!" "YES WAY!" "NO WAY!" YES WAY!" "NO WAY!" "YES WAAAAAAAAY!" Seshiri ran over to them. "YOU SERIOUS?" "YEAH" "SERIOUS SERIOUS?" "YEAH!" "OMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMG" They all squealed in union.
Rachia shot them a look from the counter. "Would you all KEEP IT DOWN?" She yelled. "Gomen!" Seshiri yelled. "OMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMG" They all whispered excitedly. The group at the table cheered for Nanuri. "CONGRATS NURI-CHAN NO DA!" Chichiri said, grinning.
Nanuri bowed. "Arigatou Chiri-san! I HAVE to go find Nuriko, wait for me here I'll be right back! I don't give a shit if we were mad before! Hell I don't even remember why we were mad! Where did they go?" Chiriko pointed behind them.
"Around that corner." He said cheerfully. "ARIGATOU CHIRIKO!" She ran over and kissed him on the cheek. "WHEEE I'M SO HAPPY!" She spun around in a circle before running off into the direction Chiriko had pointed.
Gurase sighed. "Oh that's so ADORABLE! Mitsukake! Do you know if it's a girl or a boy?" Mitsukake smiled.
"Well normally, just a little while after it happened, you wouldn't be able to tell. However. I could tell with the help of my Chi." "And?" Gurase asked. "Well, if I'm correct, it's a boy."
SD Seshiri and SD Gurase turned to each other squealing. "OMG A BOOOY!" In union they whispered as Rachia shot them another look.
"Oh that is so adorable! What should they name it?" Soi asked. "Probably Kourin!" Miaka said. SD Tamahome blinked. "Miaka, that's a girl's name." "…… OH. DUH hah… gomen!"
SD Gurase raised an eyebrow at Miaka. "Riiiiiight." Suddenly Nanuri's scream rang out, piercing everyone's ears. "What in the-" Seshiri paled and ran over to where Nanuri was.
She arrived just in time to catch her friend as she fainted. "Nani?" Gurase asked, looking around Seshiri's shoulder.
"Oh my god…" Seshiri whispered, looking through the door. The others were behind them, trying to look over Seshiri. Seshiri paled until she was white as a sheet, staring. On the floor lay Tasuki and Nuriko. They both were sprawled across the floor, soaking in blood.
Nuriko's eyes were wide open with a look of horror still shining in them. His hair was wild, soaked in blood. His shirt was torn open, and a huge gaping hole where his stomach should have been was soaking everything in more blood. Huge slices bit into the skin on his face, scarring it.
Both of Tasuki's legs were bent in an awkward way. His eyes were open, and glazed over. One of his arms was partially ripped off, hanging on only by a thread. His mouth was wide open, silently screaming. Similar scratches were cut across his face. They hadn't been dead long.
Seshiri stared down at them in disbelief. Gurase collapsed behind her, fainting. Miaka shielded her eyes, sobbing. Seshiri dropped Nanuri on the floor, stumbling forward.
Hotohori kneeled next to Gurase, holding her. Chiriko was pulled away by Mitsukake, trying to keep him from seeing the horror in front of them. Chichiri took off his mask, turning away as tears fell down his cheeks.
Amiboshi and Suboshi led Soi away from the carnage, Tomo following. Nakago too turned his back on Seshiri, walking away silently. Tamahome pulled the sobbing Miaka back. "Miaka-chan." He whispered. "Come on…" He hugged her, walking away holding her hand.
Seshiri stumbled forward again, tripping and falling to her knees. "Nani…?" She stared at the bodies in disbelief. She turned back around, hearing a sob. "Nanuri." She whispered. Nanuri shook her head, tears flying. Seshiri crawled forward to Tasuki's body. Her clothes were stained from the pool of blood surrounding him.
"This can't be happening!" She said, her voice croaking. "Not again! Never again!" She said with a sob in her voice. Nanuri scrambled up, lunging forward in a desperate attempt to reach Nuriko. "NURIKO!" She wailed. "Nuriko! Koi! Nuriko!" She sobbed, clutching his body.
"This can't be happening!" Nanuri sobbed. "I can't believe it! I wont!" Seshiri sobbed, letting the tears come. "Nuri-chan! It's happening, it's real.. they.. they're dead!" She cried, leaning down to Tasuki. "I knew it!" She sobbed. "I KNEW we wouldn't make it! I told him, we should have gotten married before! I TOLD him! And-and…"
Nanuri sobbed. "I can't believe it! The last thing I ever said to him was…. I hate you!" Seshiri sat up, sobbing and covering her face in her hands. "And now.. now it's too late!…" Nanuri sobbed again.
"No!" She said forcefully through her sobs. "This can't be real! It has to be a dream!" "No Nanuri!" Seshiri cried. "Don't convince yourself it isn't real because it IS… it's real…. It's happening…" "NO!"
Seshiri stood up on shaky legs, trying to hold herself together. She stumbled over to Nanuri. "Nuri-chan.." Tears ran down her cheeks.
"This is REAL." "No… No.." Nanuri sobbed, laying down next to Nuriko's body and holding onto him. "No…" She said, over and over again, sobbing. Seshiri tried to pull Nanuri up. "Nanuri!" She tried to dry her tears.
"Nanuri!" She tried her best to pull Nanuri from Nuriko, but her hold was too strong. Seshiri gave up. "Nanuri, please, don't tell yourself it's not real!" Nanuri turned and glared at Seshiri.
"SHUT UP! YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT I'M GOING THROUGH RIGHT NOW! THIS ISN'T HARD FOR YOU BECAUSE IT'S HAPPENED TO YOU BEFORE! YOU'RE USED TO IT BY NOW!"
Seshiri leaned back, shocked at Nanuri's words. How could she say such words? Oh Tasuki, I need you right now! But… Oh Tasuki! Not again! Please! I won't be able to survive again! Living another lifetime without you!
But.. but now I know better. I know it's real, I wont disillusion myself. But gods… Tasuki…. Why.. I can't believe it… you… and… I… we were going to get married and…. And… Oh Tasuki….
Gods… I have to help Nanuri through this. I'm the only one who can understand. I can't let her die of a broken heart.
Suddenly she pulled Nanuri up forcefully and slapped her. "NANURI! GET A HOLD OF YOURSELF!" Nanuri pulled back, a look of shock on her face. Sniffling, she rubbed her cheek with her hand as tears fell silently.
Seshiri spoke with a forceful strong voice. "Nanuri don't you EVER say that! I lost Tasuki before, and now I've lost him again. Old memories, old emotions have come up that I had forgotten about. Now it's JUST as bad as it was before if not WORSE! I admit that now I can hold myself together in public a lot better, because I am used to it. BUT I can GUARANTEE you that when you and I leave I will start sobbing alone in my room."
Nanuri's tears continued to fall. "Nanuri.." Seshiri's voice softened. "I understand how you feel, I am probably the ONLY person who understands how you feel! And I am probably the only one who can help you through this, as you can probably help me."
"It's just that…" Nanuri sobbed again, and new tears raced down Nanuri's cheeks. "I… I'm pregnant.. and.. .and I'm going to be all alone raising this kid.. if it looks like Nuriko I don't know what I'll do… every time I see the child it will remind me of HIM and the pain will be refreshed and… and.." Nanuri stopped talking and began to sob uncontrollably.
"Come on." Trying to keep herself together Seshiri stood up, pulling Nanuri to her feet. "Let's go…" She said quietly. Without turning back, Seshiri led Nanuri out of the room.
As soon as they left a dark shadow appeared in the room. "Hmm… That was a beautiful performance. I can not wait to see more of this drama." With a deep cackle the figure disappeared.