Day in the Life

by Mirror and Image

[Complete] Another journey into character development. An examination of the Troopers lives outside, well, the Troopers, and how they interact with familyfriends, etc, to find out, uh, what a day in their lives would look like.

3. Shin

Day in the Life
Shin

Mirror and Image

Shin slowly opened his eyes, his mind still in a sleepy fog. It was morning all right. The sun was just peaking over the horizon through his window. His window. It was nice to be home for a while. College sometimes pressed on him so much with work to do that he never got a chance to enjoy himself. True, he had friends at college, and he enjoyed learning, but there was just something different about being home with his family. Perhaps it was the reassurance that he now knew for sure that his mother was fine. As much as she may want him to lead his own life, he knew it was his duty to look after her.

Stretching slowly, Shin shoved those thoughts from his mind. Today was a special day and he didn't need to worry about his mother. They had a live-in nurse now to help take care of her. Shin couldn't help but smile as he got up out of his futon, preparing to get dressed. Sometimes, the other Troopers teased him about not having enough male influence growing up. So what if he had only his mother and sister for the longest time? He didn't mind. Oh how the other Troopers would chuckle now that Erika, the live-in nurse was here. Yet another female in his life that was just family added on to his new niece, Natsumi.

He went downstairs. Shin sometimes couldn't believe that his family had owned the house and land for generations. The house, despite its modern kitchen and conveniences, felt ancient and strong. The fusama, engawa, shoji, all were made of ancient wood polished by age and usage, unlike the modern cabinets in the kitchen, or newer low-tables from only a generation ago. It was simply amazing that a house could hold such a feeling of honor and duty. Just coming home could make Shin feel revived.

Shin started to leave the house, heading for Kikugahama beach and telling his mind to quiet down or else he'd never get anything done. He still needed to go to the pharmacist, get the pottery shop open, and he had to get a special dinner done tonight. After all, it was Sayoko and Ryuusuke's anniversary today.

The bike ride to the beach was a moderately long one. Shin's house was close the Kikugahama, the beach itself was very much a place for tourists, but this early in the morning, he doubted anyone would be there. His house was so close to this beach because of his history. His family was to defend Hagi Sea over the generations. Of course, Shin protected the sea in a way slightly different from his ancestors. He had been blessed with a mystical yoroi to help defend the sea and subsequently the oceans. Back in the war with Arago, it was sometimes easy to forget that there was more to their fight than just fighting.

Shin finally reached the Kikugahama beach and stretched under the gentle rays of the sun and the old ruins of Hagi castle. His guess was right, and very few people were there that early. Leaving his bike on the beach, Shin dove right into the water, letting its cool, almost chill temperature engulf him and welcome him home. That was what was so wonderful about coming home. The very sea itself always welcomed him home, as if it missed him. He swam around, admiring the clear water and the splashes of light on the sea bottom that the sun made as it continued to raise. He surfaced briefly for air, and to check the beach. There still weren't too many people, and no one was near his bike. Taking another deep breath, he dove down again.

Shin sometimes felt guilty that he had such access to his element. None of the other Troopers could really be a part of their respective elements like he could. But as much as he tried to be considerate of the other Troopers, he simply needed to be a part of the sea. The ocean flowed in his blood, after generations of looking after the sea and being a Mouri. His family's love of the sea was passed down in every generation, not by force. It just happened.

Perhaps that was why he still felt a little animosity to Ryuusuke, his brother-in-law. Years ago, before Arago had shown up a second time, Ryuusuke, then Sayoko's fiancé, asked if Shin hated the sea. It had always been difficult to make Shin mad, but Ryuusuke not understanding the Mouri history, which was everywhere in his hometown, was just too much. Add on top of that Sayoko intending to marry into Ryuusuke's family instead of the other way around, and Shin was enraged.

Shin smiled underwater, swimming with a school of fish. It seemed somewhat silly now that he had challenged his soon-to-be brother-in-law to a diving contest, but it had all worked out. Still, that Ryuusuke had been so ignorant of the girl he loved was just wrong. Maybe that was why the two of them were still on eggshells with each other, even after almost six years. But Ryuusuke was his Onii-san now.

There was a whistle under water and Shin turned to see Suiki swimming towards him, whistling a welcome home. The large orca slid beside Shin, who gently grabbed the large dorsal fin. Together, they started to swim around the sea of Hagi, enjoying each other's company. They finally surfaced, and Shin gasped for air. Suiki started to dive again, but Shin let go of the orca's dorsal fin and slid into the water once more.

"Suminasen, my friend," he told Suiki. "But the sun keeps rising, and I need to get home." ((I apologize))

Suiki clicked somewhat sadly, but offered his fin once more. Shin gratefully held on as he got a little taxi ride to the shore. "Arigatoo!" Shin called. "I'll see you tomorrow!" He received a happy series of clicks in response and he turned to his bike. The tourists were starting to crowd the beach, so Shin pushed his dripping hair back, got on his bike and started back home. It was interesting, despite how many times Shin and the other Troopers ended up riding Byakuen, Shin still preferred to ride Suiki. The large killer whale just provided a smoother and more comfortable ride. Riding Byakuen usually ended up with fur caught in his armor and a sore rump.

The sun was now well above the horizon, and drying him in its gentle rays. By the time he got home, his hair was only damp. He quickly and quietly went upstairs and got dressed for the day and ran a comb through his hair. He also folded up his futon and put it away. Quietly creeping downstairs again, Shin went into the kitchen to start breakfast. He could already hear Sayoko up in her room, getting ready as well as Erika, their live-in nurse. Shin mildly scolded himself for spending too much time at Kikugahama this morning.

Since it was Sayoko and Ryuusuke's anniversary today, Shin decided to do a more western breakfast, since Ryuusuke had a taste for it and had passed it to Sayoko and their daughter Natsumi. He pulled out a frying pan and started to cook some eggs. Reaching for some salt, Shin sighed as a weight wrapped itself around his leg.

"Natsumi-chan," he chided his three-year-old niece. "Please let me cook."

"Shin-jii-chama," she pleaded, "please let me help!" ((jii - uncle, -chama, combination of chan - term for young, and sama - term for master, boy master))

"Hai," he replied. "Could you please set the table for everyone?" ((Yes))

"But I can't reach."

Shin checked the eggs and went to the silverware draw, pulling out everything that was needed as well as napkins and cups. He set them on a tray and handed it to Natsumi. "Can you take these to the low table without dropping anything?"

"Of course!" Natsumi replied cheerfully. She hurried over to the low table and started to set everything up, already knowing where knives, forks, and spoons went.

With Natsumi's boundless energy satiated, Shin went back to cooking and started to warm the kettle for the tea. He pulled out six plates and placed the eggs onto one of them and started another. Pulling out a second frying pan, Shin started to cook some fish. The one thing about a western breakfast that he always refused to cook was bacon and sausage, because it just wasn't healthy. So he always cooked fish. Shin smiled to himself. The other Troopers had been surprised that he enjoyed seafood, unless the head was still on. He once countered them by asking why they weren't surprised that Touma liked to eat fowl. The Troopers kept quiet after that.

"Natsumi-chan, let me help you with those," Sayoko said, finally coming downstairs.

"Iya!" the little sea-eyed three-year old replied. "I'm helping Jii-chama!" ((No! …Uncle Shin))

"Then let me get the plates, Natsumi-chan."

"Hai!" ((Yes!))

Shin smiled. He loved his family dearly. Even Ryuusuke, to a point. The only problem with Ryuusuke was that Shin just didn't know how to act around him. Ryuusuke had proven that he could be a good person, and Shin could see many redeeming qualities in him, but he still had difficulties forgetting that Ryuusuke had been so ignorant of the history of the very woman he loved. The fact that Ryuusuke didn't learn about someone he cared so much for was just wrong for Shin. If you loved someone, you did everything you could to learn about them. For example, Shin loved his niece very much. Because of this, he noticed that when Natsumi wasn't feeling well, her energy level dropped. Natsumi was very energetic and also very quiet, preferring to express things in actions instead of words.

Shin could go on and on like that for every member of his family, including Ryuusuke and the Troopers, who were just as much family as his biological ones. Yet Ryuusuke hadn't known about Sayoko's history. The Mouri clan was famous and written about in history for founding Hagi and so much more, but Ryuusuke hadn't understood their love of the sea.

"Ohaiyo, anata," greeted the only other male voice in the house. Ryuusuke was downstairs now. Shin glanced over to the low table to see Ryuusuke kissing Sayoko. "How are you this morning?" ((Morning, dear))

Sayoko giggled softly in response and whispered something in his ear that made him blush. Shin went back to his cooking, noting that he was almost done. At least Ryuusuke made Sayoko happy. She deserved it. When Shin was nothing more than a little boy, Sayoko had to look after their mother Ai, making sure she didn't over work herself, stay away from stress, eat healthy foods, and make sure she didn't get sick again. As Shin got older, he took over, letting Sayoko go to college and go about her life. Unfortunately, when the fight with Arago started, he had to call Sayoko back because he couldn't look after her. Sayoko agreed willingly, but brought Ryuusuke with her.

Perhaps that was another reason why he and Ryuusuke got off on the wrong foot. Everyone in Shin's family knew about his armor and that he had gone off to fight a war, but Ryuusuke hadn't. After all, why would he believe them? Shin smiled briefly; during their diving contest, Ryuusuke had been rather surprised when he had to put his armor on and clean an oil spill nearby.

Shin sighed quietly. His relationship with Ryuusuke was strained at best, non-existent at worst. Shin still didn't appreciate Ryuusuke's initial behavior, and Ryuusuke was scared of Shin. The silence between them needed to change and soon, but how could Shin try and talk to Ryuusuke without Ryuusuke getting scared or perceiving it as a threat?

All of the breakfasts were done now, so Shin brought them in, two at a time, and putting them down in everyone's place. By now, Shin's mother Ai and her nurse Erika were downstairs. Sayoko and her husband were cuddling and Natsumi was in the corner, doing various stances from her bo training.

"Natsumi-chan?" Shin walked over to her quietly. "Breakfast is ready."

"But I 'as gettin' this new stance!" she complained.

"Breakfast, Natsumi-chan," Shin replied. "Tomorrow I'll work with you and your stances."

"Honto ni!" ((Really!))

"Hai, now clean up for breakfast." Yes

"You betcha!" Natsumi happily went for her stool and climbed up to get to the sink and washed her face and hands, clambered down and raced for her seat. With the table finally settled, they started to eat.

Erika was the first to comment. "This food is delicious, as always, Shin-chama, and I'm glad you all look after your mother so well."

"Of course the food is good," Sayoko replied, "Shin has always loved cooking and has been doing so since he was ten."

"Arigatoo, Onee-san," smiled Shin, his cheeks slightly warm. "I do what I can to help out."

"Oh you two," Ai interrupted, "I know you've been looking after me for years, but I'm not a glued together Hagiyaki. I can still do lots of things on my own." ((Hagiyaki is a famous type of pottery from Hagi.))

"Baa-chan?" Natsumi asked. "You're not a pot're you?" ((Grandma?))

"No, little one," Shin's mother replied. "I am however, sometimes as delicate as one. But not as delicate as one already broken. Your mother and uncle seem to forget that sometimes as they take over my chores."

"Kaa-chan, Jii-chama, why'd you think Baa-chan's a pot?" ((Mommy, Uncle Shin….Grandma))

Shin thought a moment before answering, "Natsumi-chan, what do you sometimes call me?"

"B'sides Jii-chama?" ((Uncle Shin))

"Yes."

"Seaman," she replied. She often called him that when they were at the beach together. "'Cause you live in the sea."

"But I am a person, right?"

"Yes."

"So I remind you of a seaman."

"Yes."

"Just like I remind you of a seaman, Baa-chan reminds me and Sayoko of pottery." ((Grandma))

"But seaman's a man. Pots're pots. Baa-chan isn't a pot." ((Grandma))

Shin didn't have an answer for that.

"Thank you, Natsumi-chan" Ai replied.

"Shin," Sayoko giggled lightly, "You've been out-fenced by a three-year-old."

"Hai, Onee-san. And a very skilled three-year-old at that." ((Yes, elder sister.))

Though Natsumi didn't understand how she had beaten Shin, she beamed with pride at the complements. "Ne, ne," Natsumi added. "C'n we go t'the beach today?" ((Hey, hey))

"Maybe later," Ryuusuke stated, talking for the first time since breakfast started. "We have a lot of work to do today. Maybe this afternoon, if we have time."

Natsumi sulked and continued to eat her breakfast. For any three-year-old, "maybe" meant "no". Shin smiled to himself. Natsumi already loved the sea, like any other Mouri.

"Not only am I lucky enough to live with a great cook," Erika cut in, flapping back her short black hair, "but I also live near the beach now You have no idea how nice it is to smell the sea every morning."

Shin chuckled. Erika had previously been living with an elderly couple in Tokyo. The children of the old couple were rarely around, though they lived in the same house, and the old couple rarely left their home. Though Erika had enjoyed their company, she had also felt that they should go out more. Unfortunately, the old couple had died recently, which was why she was able to take the job with Shin's family to look after their mother. Though Ai was still very young, everyone in the family thought she was not supposed to get sick so easily and thus agreed that a live-in nurse would be better for everyone.

Erika sure was a character though. She dealt with people dying all the time yet was still able to remain cheerful.

"Mouri-san," Erika turned to Shin's mother. "Would you mind if sometime in the future I invite my nieces and nephews up for a weekend? It wouldn't be all of them, of course, only a few at a time, but I think they would enjoy it. Except poor Kaoru, the poor thing is allergic to seafood." Erika continued to clatter on about her family, which was actually quite large from what she said. Two sisters, three brothers, a total of seven nieces and six nephews in all. Of course they were spread out across Japan, but for Erika, who couldn't have children, it was very important to be in every one of their lives.

"Erika-nee-chan? C'n I be friends with'em?" asked Natsumi. ((Auntie Erika?))

"Of course, Natsumi-chan," Erika smiled. "Why, my little sister Nobuku has a little girl around your age named Chiharu. I think you'd get along just fine with her. What do you think Mouri-san?"

Ai offered a small gentle smile. "I think it is a lovely idea, Erika-san. I'm sure that my doting children can look over me for a day or so while you entertain your own family."

"Speaking of doting children," Ryuusuke stated, "but isn't it time for your medicine, Okaa-sama?" Ryuusuke bowed his head. "After all, breakfast is almost over and you need to get to the shop this morning." ((Mother))

Erika looked cross-eyed at Ryuusuke and shushed him off. "Now Ryuusuke-san, I know that you're concerned about Mouri-san, but I know how to do my job." She turned to Ai. "Are you ready for your medication or are you still eating?"

"You know," Shin's mother replied, her smile showing the age in her face, "I don't think anyone could be as lucky as I am. I have my children fighting over how to take care for me and who to be with me. But I am still a young woman, so don't treat me like an invalid. I know to take my prescription. Don't fuss so much. It takes gentle hands to feel a pot, and fussing over a pot means it will age before it is finished." Standing and picking up her plates, she quietly went into the kitchen.

That was something else that Ryuusuke sometimes stumbled with. He had a profound lack of tact that sometimes that just grated on Shin's nerves. He just had a bad habit of saying the worst things at the worst times. Even Sayoko complained about it at times. Still, Shin had to concede that Ryuusuke wasn't as bad as when they first met. Everyone in the house knew he could open his mouth and insert his foot, but what he said still hurt.

Sayoko and Erika got up and went to the kitchen to talk to Ai, leaving Shin, Ryuusuke and Natsumi at the breakfast table.

"Ne," Natsumi said, oblivious to what had just happened. "May I go and play?" ((Hey))

"In your room, Natsumi."

"Hai, Tou-chan!" With a leap, she jumped from the tale and bolted for the stairs, heading for where her coloring books most likely were in her room. ((Yes, daddy!))

There was a long and heavy silence in the room, weighing down on the two men of the family. Shin knew he had to say something to Ryuusuke, but how to word it gently was the problem. "Onii-san," Shin started, "you know better than to bring up Okaa-san's medical problems. She is still a strong woman, no matter what the doctors say about her heart." Shin put his face in his palm. "She technically isn't even old enough to require a live-in nurse, but when she gets sick, she needs attention that the three of us can't give." Ryuusuke … Mother

"I know that," Ryuusuke replied quietly. "It's just that…I don't know…Today is special…and…"

"And you didn't want me to get sick," finished Ai, walking into the room. "I know you didn't mean any harm, but you must learn to think before you say anything. I know that Sayoko loves you, and so do I, but you must watch what you say. Others are not as forgiving as I am."

Shin winced. That was meant for him. Because of his foolish challenge to a diving contest because he was so insulted back then. Because he still had a hard time accepting his new onii-san. Because he still didn't do anything to cross the rift between him and his brother-in-law. Sayoko and Ryuusuke's anniversary was not starting out very well. ((brother))

"I need to change for the kiln. I will see you later." With that, Shin's mother left to get her clay covered smock. Erika joined her, as it was her job to keep an eye on the graying woman.

Since breakfast was basically finished, Shin started to clean the dishes, wishing he had kept his mouth shut. He had messed up with Ryuusuke again. If the Troopers were here, they'd just tell him to talk with his brother-in-law and work out the problems. However, it wasn't that easy. He'd tried talking to Ryuusuke several times. Each time, though, seemed to go all wrong. Ryuusuke would say something wrong again, or Shin got the impression that he was being intimidating and broke off before anything was solved. There had to be some way to get past the uncomfortable talks the two of them had.

Shin finished cleaning the dishes and put them away. He watched Natsumi run by, dragging Sayoko with her outside, most likely to play, so Shin got on his bike went to the pottery shop, which wasn't too far from their home. That was something else that the Troopers admired. That he lived in what was probably the oldest city in Japan. Not because of the date it was founded, but because the buildings in Hagi dated back to the end of the Tokugawa and the beginning of the Meiji. The town looked like Japan did centuries ago, filled with the power of those times.

It didn't take long to reach the shop, which was on the small side of small. Large enough for their family to display Ai's works, but something you had to know where to look for. Shin went around to the back and brought his bike into a small storehouse. Before the shop could be opened, he had to bring out the pottery that was finished yesterday. He admired his mother's beautiful Hagiyaki as he pulled them out and polished each one carefully for display. Once they shined, he gently brought each one out to the shop and put them in the display area of their small but moderately successful shop.

He admired his mother greatly. While she could create things of beauty unparalleled, Shin felt himself to be sorely lacking in the creativity department. True, he enjoyed things like flower arrangement, and he had an idea of one for the anniversary dinner tonight, Shin didn't feel that his creativity could last like his mother's could. Sayoko also had the talent to make things that lasted.

He pulled out a broom and went to the back room where the pottery was actually made. His mother was on the wheel, Erika preparing the clay for her so as to stay close. Shin quietly started to sweep.

After a time, Ai's voice broke the silence. "Erika, could you please go to the front and check to see if Sayoko is in yet?"

"Hai, Mouri-san." Yes, Mrs. Mouri.

"Well, Shin."

"Yes, Okaa-san?" Mother

"What do you have to say about this morning?"

"Okaa-san, you know that I've tried to become friendlier with Onii-san, but it just doesn't work. He says the wrong thing, or I come across threatening in ways that are very obscure to me. I think he's petrified of me because I had the Suiko yoroi. Even though I don't have it any more, there is still a strain between us." ((Mother … Ryuusuke))

"Shin," his mother said in a quiet voice, "I raised you better than that."

"Eh?"

Ai continued to form the pottery, gently letting it take shape. "When you make a piece of Hagiyaki, you need to give it a lot of attention."

"I know that, Okaa-san," Shin replied, lowering his head. "I've given Onii-san attention and he walks away, usually scared. He seems to prefer I keep a distance. So I've obliged him. Unfortunately, whenever I do try and talk to him, it causes problems because we don't know each other very well as a result."

"You're missing the point," the middle aged woman responded.

Shin paused in his sweeping to consider what she was saying. His mother had always made both him and his sister think about what they did wrong rather than tell them. That way, they learned their errors by themselves, thus learning faster. A person tended to be their own worst critic in any case.

Ryuusuke had obviously been the first at fault for insulting Ai. However, now that he thought about it, he had been rather quick to start scolding, rather than just letting the subject drop. Ryuusuke obviously felt bad about what had happened, so Shin rubbing his face in it, albeit unintentionally, didn't help matters.

"I shouldn't have said anything," he realized.

"Exactly," Ai responded, finishing the pot. Setting the wet pot aside, she grabbed some more clay and started the wheel. "You know there are times to be quiet. Being quiet is part of what saved you during that war with Arago. Yet after a few years of peace, you've forgotten that there are times other than battle that require silence. Ryuusuke already felt poorly about what he had said. Therefore it was unnecessary for you to admonish him. If you continue on like this, you will be no better than Ryuusuke with Ryuusuke."

Shin understood that. If he kept doing what he had been doing with his brother-in-law, then he would be just as tactless when dealing with Ryuusuke. Therefore, something was going to have to change. But what?

"Demo, Okaa-san, Ryuusuke seems to be afraid of me." But, mother

"He most certainly is not. Be more observant." Ai finally turned from the pottery and looked to her son. Smiling gently, she added, "Besides, we should be celebrating today."

Shin returned a small smile to her. "Arigatoo, Okaa-san." ((Thank you, mother.))

"Good. Now be off with you! You have work to do! Back to sweeping!"

"Hai." ((Yes.))

His mother had a point. The strained silences of the past six years just couldn't continue. Neither he nor Ryuusuke could survive it and stay on at least pleasant terms. But how could he act around Ryuusuke? They had very little in common, and didn't bump into each other that often during the day.

Shin finished sweeping the back room, noting that it was well past time for the shop to be open. Feeling bad about not opening the shop, he went into the front room to see Sayoko had already opened and was chatting with their first customer of the day.

Shin paused. His sister seemed different this morning. True, she was smiling as always and bright and cheerful, but something was off. Shin started to sweep the front of the shop, keeping an eye on his sister. As she talked with her customer, she laughed. However, the laugh was different than her usual laugh. Normally, her laugh was gentle and somewhat quiet, like a silver bell that was tapped by a clapper. This laugh however was downright giddy, on the verge of manic. Was something wrong with his sister? Why on her anniversary? Wonderful.

Shin finished sweeping again and went behind the counter to get his apron.

Sayoko turned to him and smiled. "I'll take the counter this morning," she said, giggles barely kept out of her voice. "Go on and take care of that food shopping. I know you're going to cook us a feast for tonight."

"If you are alright with that," Shin replied slowly, not liking how his sister was acting.

"Shin," Sayoko said in a serious voice, despite the smile on her face. "You'll find out at dinner."

Not knowing what she meant, but taking the hint, Shin headed for his bike and checked his wallet. He should have enough money for everything he needed to get. Putting the wallet in the back pocket of his slacks, he went to the back storehouse and pulled out his bike. Pausing, Shin put his bike back inside and went into the shop. Before he actually went out shopping, there was something he needed to check on first. Once in the shop, Shin headed upstairs to the office, which was used for the money side of their business.

He didn't bother to sit down, instead just picking up the phone and dialing the number.

"Clayton Claymore's Clay Company. Bringing you the best clay from around the world. This is Yuuko, how may I help you?" answered a young woman on the other end.

"Ohayo gozaimasu," Shin greeted politely. "I'm from Mouri no Pottari. I'd like to check on the order we made last week." ((Good morning … Mouri's Pottery))

The woman asked for some information, which Shin gave out. "Matte kudasai." ((Please wait.))

He sifted his weight, listening to something that vaguely resembled music. It was interesting. His mother had started taking clay from this business when it had just barely started, and now they had enough money to put you on hold. Somehow, that just seemed odd. At least the business was doing well. Something Sayoko had once tried to explain to him was that his mother was very picky about the clay she used. It couldn't just be any old clay, it had to have a certain texture and color to it. Evidently, it was hard to find this clay until Ai hand found Clayton Claymore Clay. They were in business together ever since. The only thing that Shin couldn't stand was trying to pronounce the name. Even the girl he had just talked to stumbled a little bit on the tongue twister of a name.

"Mouri-san?" ((Mr. Mouri?))

"Hai?" ((Yes?))

"Your order is already on its way. It should arrive within the week."

"Arigatoo gozaimasu." ((Thank you.))

"Kochira koso. Have a nice day." ((My pleasure.))

"Sayonara." ((Good bye.))

Hanging up the phone, Shin hurried to get his bike from the storehouse. It was almost nine-thirty, and he had a lot of shopping to do. He also needed to be home in order to get lunch ready. Once on his bike, Shin sped down the streets to the shopping district. His first stop had to be the pharmacist. Last night, when he had gotten home, Erika mentioned that his mother's medication was getting low. Her prescription needed a refill. So he thought he'd do that today.

Leaving his bike outside the pharmacy, Shin walked into the air-conditioned building, feeling the sweat roll down his cheek for the first time of the day. It wasn't that warm out was it?

"Shin-san! Ohayo!" the girl at the counter greeted.

"Naoko-san, ohayo," he replied. She was slightly younger than him, and had worked at this pharmacy since graduating high school. Evidently, Naoko had no intentions of going to college. Still, she always seemed concerned about Shin's mother and made for a good person to vent with about Ai's medical problems.

"You're more dressed up than normal today," she pointed out. "What's the occasion?"

Shin looked down. He had on a pair of slacks and a crisp white shirt with a blue tie. Compared to a pair of jeans and a clean shirt that he normally wore, this was indeed dressed up. However, Naoko always teased that he was more dressed up than most boys his age would be. He had to introduce her to Seiji. That would most certainly end her teasing him. Unfortunately, it would transfer to his blond friend. Maybe he shouldn't introduce her to Seiji.

"Actually," Shin answered, "today is Sayoko and Ryuusuke's anniversary."

"Oooo, the love-birds can celebrate," Naoko grinned evilly. Shin had a bad feeling about this. "So when are they going to disappear from the festivities? Will they go to a cheap motel to fulfill their passions? Or will they sneak upstairs and do it right under your noses? Or would that be above?"

Shin felt his cheeks redden and he bowed his head. Naoko was simply like that sometimes. She loved to tease him about how he usually didn't think in that manner about things.

"Aw, Shin-chama is blushing. Gomen gomen, Shin-san," Naoko laughed softly. "You really can't take that kind of stuff can you?" ((Sorry, sorry))

"Ano, can we just change the subject?"

"Sure thing. So what do you need today?"

"Okaa-san's prescription needs a refill." ((Mother))

"No problem."

Shin handed Naoko his mother's prescription bottle and she went into the back to get the refill. He waited by the counter, watching the other customers in the store browse over-the-counter medications. Naoko returned, her dark brown hair now back in a ponytail.

"Here ya go, Shin-san."

"Arigatoo, Naoko-san." ((Thank you))

"How is your mother doing?"

"Well. Though I've only returned last night, she seems healthier than when I left."

"That's good. How's Tokyo? College? Life in general?"

"Tokyo is just too crowded," Shin replied, making a face. "I feel like I'm a nobody there. I prefer it here in Hagi very much, thank you." He laughed softly, talking to himself. "The only time I've ever seen Tokyo empty is a time I'd rather not go back to."

"What was that?"

Shin changed topics quickly. "College is going well. Most of my classes are challenging, and a few seem beyond me sometimes."

"Math does that to people," Naoko replied. "It's what stopped me from going to college. Trig is as far as I go. I so much as look at Calculus and I go crazy."

"You know," Shin answered, deciding to do the teasing this time, "I have a friend in Osaka who could tutor you if you're so desperate to improve your math and go to college."

"Eh?"

"Oh yes, Touma's very smart. He took one of those IQ tests once. Did you know he received a 250? That means he's a genius. So if you want to go to college so desperately, I'm sure I could give him a call."

"Sh-shi-shin-san!" Naoko blushed and started to fall away from the counter, cowering in fear. "I don't do college! Don't even think about calling that guy in as a tutor! I am not going back to school!"

Shin took her reaction in stride and mimicked her from earlier.

"Aw, Naoko-san is blushing. Gomen gomen, Naoko-san," Shin laughed softly. "You really can't take that kind of stuff can you?" ((Sorry, sorry))

"You know damn well that I hate school and am not going back!" she hissed, starting to smile again. She sighed, "Don't scare me like that again."

"You can dish it out but you can't take it can you, Naoko-san?" Shin chuckled. "Don't worry. I usually don't tease you so much. I think you're off the hook for about a month."

"Really?" Naoko grinned devilishly again. "Then I have to pay you back for that with some horrible interest."

"Fine fine," he replied, heading for the door. "Have a good day, Naoko-san!"

"Hey! I'm supposed to have the last word!"

"Ja ne!" The door shut behind him. ((See ya!))

Ignoring the yells thrown through the door to his general direction, Shin put his mother's prescription into his pocket, feeling it would be safer there. Getting onto his bike again, Shin paused. He still needed to get food for the dinner tonight, but he also needed to get a gift for Sayoko and Ryuusuke. Actually, that wasn't entirely true. He already had the main part of the present; he just needed one last piece for it. Which should he worry about first?

That problem solved, Shin started off on his bike to a different section of Hagi. He should probably get the gift first. It had taken him forever to even figure out what to get for Sayoko and Ryuusuke, but he had finally decided on a family picture that they all enjoyed. He wanted to frame it for them. He also had a good idea what type of frame he should use.

It didn't take him long before he reached the tourist section of Hagi, where Shin went into one of the gift shops. Sure enough, along one of the shelves was picture frames. He paused, looking at each frame, and imagining the picture inside. Ultimately, it was a simple silver frame that he chose to hold the picture. It served best for the picture, which was a black-and-white of them in traditional clothing. The picture frame would be muted in comparison with the actual picture, letting the photograph stand out.

Shin went to the counter where the girl tallied the tax. It was slightly more expensive that he would have liked, but he had brought enough money. Besides, this was a tourist shop. Gift gotten, he glanced at the clock as he left the store. It was already almost noon? He had better hurry with the food shopping. He still needed to get home and make lunch.

Putting the picture frame in the basket on his bike, Shin hurried toward the market section of town. Thankfully, Sayoko had done most of the food shopping for him before he came home. All he needed to do now was to get the stuff he tended to be picky on. Things like meat and certain spices. That was one thing that Shin always had a good eye for. He was usually very good in picking out meats that were at the height of freshness and the spices that could taste perfect. Even Ryuusuke had complimented him on it.

That's right. Ryuusuke. Shin had been avoiding that train of thought for a while now. But he needed to think about it at some point. His mother had said that his brother-in-law didn't fear him. But if that was the case, then why did they have such difficulty communicating? What kept going wrong? Shin would admit that he sometimes made mistakes, much like he did this morning, but he wasn't the only one. Ryuusuke was the king of inserting his foot in his mouth.

Shin sighed as he slowed the bike, entering the market area. He started with the spice shop, browsing through their basil and oregano. He picked out the bottles that smelled best and bought it, heading now for the meat shop. There he looked through steaks. This was partially Ryuusuke's day after all.

Okay, let's try this from a different angle. The way things usually worked when the two of them were in the same room together was pretty habitual.

Shin would continue going about the business he was doing.

Ryuusuke would do the same.

Shin might try to start a conversation.

Ryuusuke would insert his foot in his mouth.

Shin would scold him politely.

Ryuusuke would step back, slide back, or some form of moving away.

Shin would see it as Ryuusuke feel threatened.

Shin would shut up.

An awkward silence would follow.

Ryuusuke would leave quickly.

Shin would wonder what happened.

All in all, it wasn't a very encouraging scenario. However, it was a steady one. How could Shin alter this so that they might actually have a conversation or a civil meeting? Better still, what if they actually had a friendship instead?

Right about now Shin wished the other Troopers were here. They'd probably have some good advice for him on how to handle this. The thing that could probably help him the most though was Seiji's observant eye. His blond friend could tell him what Ryuusuke was if he wasn't scared. Shuu would probably also have a good idea, since he was with Shin when he first met his future onii-san. Ryo also had a good feel for things. Touma would probably just over analyze everything, but something in there would probably grant some insights. And if Shin needed anything at the moment, it was insights about Ryuusuke.

Speaking of the Troopers, Shin missed them. It had been way too long since he last seen all of them. Maybe he should invite them over for a while. Seiji would have quite a while to travel though. Still, it would be worth it. Despite how different they all were, they would always have fun together. Didn't matter where or how, they always found a way. Usually Shuu would make a fool of himself, or Ryo would crack a joke. Something to make things light and cheerful. It never failed.

Shin found the meat he wanted, and paid for it. Getting on his bike, he started to head back to his house, the almost hot sun bearing down on his back. He was due for a few letters soon. Ryo and Seiji were usually the fastest in answering, though for different reasons. Ryo was usually so fast because he often had a lot of time. Seiji could normally find time quickly as well, though more through scheduling than free time. Shuu had a restaurant to work at and usually took a few days to write letters, little by little. Touma usually took the longest though. He tried to explain it once. Something about having difficulty writing what he wanted on paper. Shin understood how that might be a problem, but he didn't understand how Touma could find it problematic.

Still, perhaps he should invite them after all. It would give them all a chance to catch up. But not right now. Shin needed time to think about Ryuusuke. He couldn't have them over while he was still on eggshells with his onii-san. He was the Trooper of the seas. If he could be in harmony with the seas, why couldn't he be in harmony with his brother-in-law? What kept going wrong?

Shin pulled his bike onto his family's property, and headed for the back door to the kitchen. He needed to put the food away quickly and hide the picture frame so he could put the photo in it later on.

"Oh, Shin!" He looked up to see his sister Sayoko by the stove with an apron on. Was he running so late? "Okairi nasai. Lunch will be ready in a few minutes." ((Welcome back.))

"Arigatoo, Onee-san, but isn't today your day? I can take care of the cooking," he replied, putting the groceries on the counter. ((Thank you, older sister,))

"Nonsense," Sayoko waved him off. "I can handle some cooking. I used to do it when you were a child and Okaa-san was sick." She looked towards him, her face serious but her eyes alight in joy. "Besides, don't you still have an anniversary gift to prepare?" Mother

"Onee-san!" ((Sayoko!))

"Don't worry, I don't know what it is. But you would have been faster if you didn't have to make a stop other than Okaa-san's prescription and some food." She smiled and pushed some of her shoulder-length hair behind her ears. "Now go on. Before I tackle you and see what your present is!" ((Mother))

"Hai, Onee-san." ((Yes, Sayoko.))

Shin hurried upstairs with the frame and pulled out the picture and framed it. Looking around his room, he opened the closet and put it under his futon. He doubted that Natsumi would wonder into his room today, but she was known to get her hands into almost everything. Once, when she was starting to crawl, she had managed to climb up his dresser and take his yoroi orb. That had caused quite a stir in the house.

Come to think of it, Ryuusuke had apologized rather heavily after the incident, promising that he would make sure that his daughter would never again stumble into his room or take his orb. Shin shook his head going down the stairs. At the time, he had merely considered it further proof that his new Onii-san was scared of him because he possessed the Suiko armor. But that couldn't be true any more since Shin no longer had the Suiko yoroi, considering the Suzunagi incident. What if that wasn't fear? Then what was it?

Shin shook his head again. "Onee-san! "What can I do to help you out?" ((Sayoko!))

"Well I'm actually just about done," Sayoko answered in a giggle. "Okaa-san and Erika are still looking after the shop," she giggled before continuing, "and Ryuusuke should be home soon with whatever my gift is going to be." Bursting out laughing, Sayoko held her sides and brushed back tears. ((Mother))

"Onee-san, daijoubu ka?" Shin asked, trying to help his sister to a chair. "You've been acting a little weird all day." Once she was seated, he went to the medicine cabinet. ((Sayoko, are you alright?'))

"Oh don't bother, Shin," Sayoko replied, calming her laughing down. "Everything with me is perfect. You don't need to get me anything."

"Are you sure?" he glanced over what Sayoko was cooking and started to pull plates out for it. "You've been out of sorts all day."

Sayoko looked at him in the eyes and said "I already told you that I would explain at dinner. Please don't ask again."

"Hai, Onee-san." ((Yes, Sayoko.))

There were just sometimes that one did not question Shin's older sister. When she looked at someone so directly was one of them. His sister was basically a very kind and quiet person, much like himself, but when she asserted something, one had better do it.

In any case, Shin was concerned about his sister. She was laughing all day. Normally, that shouldn't be a problem, but he felt something different about the laugher. Something that wasn't quite right. Continuing to dish out his Onee-san's cooking, he was rather pleased that she had chosen a more traditional Japanese lunch. The rice looked perfect and the fish smelled delicious. Though everyone believed that Shin was the best cook, Sayoko was very good herself. Ryuusuke had claimed it was one of the reasons he loved her. She could cook anything that he couldn't, which was quite a bit. Then he had tasted Shin's cooking.

"Are you feeling better, Onee-san?" ((Sayoko))

"Yes, Shin, now stop worrying." Sayoko went quiet, obviously in her own thoughts. It was common for her to do so when something important was happening. That's what worried Shin. What could be so important now as to consume her thoughts?

Sayoko gave him another look and he went back to bringing out lunch. Once all the plates were on the table, Ryuusuke was dragged in by Natsumi. They all sat. Ai and Erika would look after the shop during the lunch hour. Since Shin was going to take the afternoon shift, he would bring them their share of lunch. Come to think of it, who was going to be on shift with him?

"Onee-san, who am I working with today?" ((Sayoko))

"Why Shin, I thought you knew!" Sayoko giggled. "You'll be working with Ryuusuke." Her giggling went into all out laughter and Natsumi joined in.

Ryuusuke paled, his short hair standing almost on end. "Ano, anata," he whispered to his wife, "demo… I thought that… well, aren't you… eto, it's your… agh…" ((Uh, dear … but … um))

Shin paused in eating. Normally he'd consider his brother-in-law's behavior as being scared. However, if what is mother said was true, and Ryuusuke wasn't scared, than why was he acting like this? Concern? About how the afternoon would go since the two of them usually didn't talk well together? Dread? Because today was his anniversary and he didn't want it spoiled in any way shape or form? Guilt? Because Shin had scolded him once today and he didn't want another? No, that would be closer to fear, and Shin was avoiding that line of thought.

"Don't worry, Onii-san," he said quietly. "I won't bite." ((Ryuusuke))

"H-hai." ((Yes.))

"Ne, Kaa-chan!" Natsumi looked pleadingly to her mother. "If Tou-chan 'n Shin-jii-chama 're at t' shop, c'n we go t' the beach with Baa-chan?" ((Mommy … Daddy … Uncle Shin … Grandma))

"Well Natsumi-chan," Sayoko said, starting to giggle again, "Kaa-chan has some shopping to do first. But if we have time afterward, we'll go to the beach."

"Suge! I'll help 's much 's I can!" ((Great!))

"Arigatoo, Natsumi-chan." ((Thank you))

Shin braced himself for a long afternoon of observation. Still lunch was just about over, so he brought his dishes to the kitchen and washed them. Ryuusuke followed suit. They both cleaned up briefly before heading out. Shin took out the basket with his mother's and Erika's food in it and got on his bike, Ryuusuke next to him on his own bike. They rode in silence to the shop.

"Onii-san, please give this to Okaa-san and Erika-san," Shin handed the basket to Ryuusuke. Going to the counter, he pulled out an apron and stayed behind the register. This was probably the more tedious part of working at the shop. Behind the counter, there was nothing to do until the customers came in.

Shin's shop was comparatively small compared to other shops in the area, and he often found he would go for several hours without customers. Turning on a radio, Shin settled himself down with a book. Before he opened it, however, he saw that there was a small dust pile on the floor by the entryway. Picking up a broom, he walked over and began to sweep it away and outside.

Right into someone.

"I'm sorry!" Shin said immediately. "I didn't see anyone there."

"That's alright," replied the young girl. She wore a high school uniform, and her hair was tied back into a ponytail. "It was my fault. I walk so quietly."

"You're not too dusty, I hope," Shin said.

The girl continued to hit at her skirt before she finally looked up. Her face turned a very bright red before she said, "N-no. D-daijoubu." ((I-I'm fine.))

"Well," Shin said. "Come on in. The least I can do is to see if I can scrounge up a snack." It also gave the girl a chance to browse the shop and maybe find something she liked and buy it. It was good business to do things like that.

"H-hai." ((O-Okay.))

The high school girl followed Shin into the shop, her face still very red.

Shin stepped into the back room. "Onii-san, are there any snacks back there?"

"Not that I know of," he called back slowly. Ryuusuke appeared with a freshly baked pot in his hand. "We just had lunch."

Shin nodded. "I know. There's someone in the shop right now and I want to get her something."

"There's always a glass of water," Ryuusuke replied slowly.

Shin filed the reaction away for later analysis and complied with the suggestion after a quick "Thanks!"

Returning with the glass of water, Shin found the girl indeed perusing the shop.

"These are so beautiful! Did you make them yourself?"

Shin laughed. "Don't I wish I did." He handed the glass of water. "No, my mother makes the pottery. I work here when I can."

"Then you must be on break or something?"

"Yes."

"Where do you go?"

"Toudai." ((Tokyo University))

"Wow!" the girl said; her red face suddenly wide in surprise. Then she tried to compose herself. "Ano, eto, ara, I mean, aaaaa…"

"It's a lot of work," Shin said, "The entrance exams alone convinced me of that. But I'm on break now, and I can enjoy myself."

"Ano! Ano… My name is… my name is… Hiroko."

"Hajimemashite, Hiroko-chan. My name is Shin." He bowed politely to the girl, and her red face became even redder. ((Nice to meet you.))

"Ano… how much longer do you have?"

"Do I have?"

The girl hid her mouth with her hands, her eyes looking down. "Iya, Nandemo nai." ((No, nothing.))

"Well," Shin said brightly, "did you spot anything that you liked?"

"Me? That I liked?" The girl again put her hands to her face and shook her head.

"If you don't have the money, I can put it on hold for you for a few days."

"You can? Wait, I mean?"

"Of course, as long as you like."

"Then, I'll be back after school. Ja ne, Shin-san!"

Hiroko left the shop with a bright smile on her face and Shin with a grimace on his. High school crushes were so tedious! He didn't mean that last line the way she took it, and now he was in a bind. Shin had managed to stay polite and cordial, but now she had some dreamy expectations like in a shojo anime or manga like His and Her Circumstances or To Heart. Granted, Shin liked shojo manga more than he would ever dare admit to anyone, but he also saw the sometimes-blatant impossibilities of the match making. But, then again, shounen manga didn't do a much better job in terms of realism. Comedies came the closest.

The very thought of Hiroko coming back with her friends and pretending to browse the store looking for something made Shin wince again. Seiji would probably have some very choice words for the situation, especially considering how Shin and the other Troopers tended to tease him about his girl problems.

However, the sweeping done and the customers temporarily lacking, Shin took the time to recall his conversation, however brief, with Ryuusuke. Normally, he would interpret his brother-in-laws slow response and brief words as fear. But fear wasn't an option to consider. Looking at the conversation in a different way, Ryuusuke's hesitation and soft tone could simply be awkwardness.

Hmmmm, Shin thought. I think I just hit on something. He replayed some of their conversations over the years in his head. Ryuusuke was almost always soft-spoken around him, and even hesitant to talk. Shin had made the mistake of interpreting that as fear. But was it really just awkwardness? No, something had to be deeper than that. Simple awkwardness wasn't something that Shin would normally react to. It had to be something else. Something that caused Ryuusuke's awkwardness. But what could that be?

The bell above the door rang and Shin looked over to his new customer.

"Konnichi wa," he greeted. ((Good afternoon.))

"Konnichi wa," answered a middle-aged woman. "I was wondering if your mother had finished her next batch yet."

"Onii-san is taking them out and glazing them now, as we speak. Would you like to see them?"

"If I may," the lady replied. "My son is getting married, and I was hoping to give him a good gift. Your mother always makes fine pottery."

"She does indeed. I will be right back, Tanaka-san." Shin got up from his chair and again entered the back room. Keeping his previous thoughts in mind, he motioned for Ryuusuke.

"Hai?" ((Yes?))

"Tanaka-san, Okaa-san's friend, is here and she wants to see the latest batch. Is now a good time to bring them out?"

"Only a few of them," Ryuusuke said after a moment of thought. "Most of them aren't ready."

"Alright. I'll go see if that's enough. I'll be right back." Shin slipped back out to the front room. "Tanaka-san, they were only just taken out; we can only show you a few of them. Is that alright?"

"That would be fine, Shin-kun. Please do so."

Shin nodded and again reentered the back room. "She'll see them. Which ones are ready? I can help you take them out."

"Oh, no," Ryuusuke said quickly. "That's quite alright. I can handle it just fine."

Shin bristled slightly at the comment, but said nothing. He knew that Ryuusuke most likely didn't mean the comment the way it came out, but he pushed the thoughts aside as he held the door open as his brother-in-law slowly brought out about a half-dozen glazed pots and bowls and placed them gently one the counter. Ryuusuke laid the pottery out with the smoothest of hands and gentlest of handling, something that Shin had never seen, or perhaps noticed, his brother do. How interesting.

"My!" Tanaka-san said when Ryuusuke had finished. "These are so lovely! This is easily your mother's best work yet." The middle-aged woman picked up each pot as gently as Ryuusuke did, examining them with a delicate and knowledgeable eye. "This is such beautiful work! I love all of them." She looked up. "You said this is only part?"

"Correct," both men answered simultaneously. The two looked at each other and paused awkwardly. Shin gestured politely for Ryuusuke to continue, but his Onii-san shook his head and let Shin finish.

"Okaa-san lately has been working in large bunches. The collection she just finished is about twenty pieces."

"Do you know when it will be complete?"

Shin looked to Ryuusuke.

"They'll technically be finished by late this afternoon, but I would wait until tomorrow morning; give them enough time to cure and add any finishing touches that she wants."

"Then I will be here early tomorrow. Dewa ashita." ((Until tomorrow.))

"See you then," Shin replied as Tanaka-san left. When she was gone, Ryuusuke promptly returned to the back room.

Odd.

Under normal circumstances, Shin would interpret everything that just happened as Ryuusuke being scared. Except for his onii-san's insisting on handling the pottery. Now why would Ryuusuke do that? If Shin's thought of fear was the cause, why try to resist what you feared in that one instance and not run away like normal? Then what about awkwardness? That had continued, and was becoming a stronger and more viable reason for their unusual situation. But what caused the awkwardness?

Shin took out a clean rag and gently picked up some of the pottery and dusted them, just to keep their shine brilliant. After all, the pots were normally dusted at least twice a day.

Still, his brother-in-law's actions today proved confusing. There was something about how Ryuusuke insisted on handling the pottery, and later letting Shin discuss the progress. It seemed, almost, docile.

The bell rang as another customer came in. Shin headed back to the counter.

"Hello?" and English voice said.

"Hello," Shin replied in kind.

"Oh, there you are," a woman entered the shop. She was in her mid thirties, with a thick main of red hair and in a delivery uniform.

"Welcome to our shop," Shin continued in English. "May I help you with anything?"

"You speak very good English," the woman said.

"Well, it is a required course in our school system."

"You wouldn't know it when you tried to listen to them. The accent is so thick and pronunciation so atrocious I can barely understand what anyone is saying."

Shin reminded himself that he was talking to a very obvious foreigner, and politely ignored the dig to Japanese culture. "How may I help you?" he asked again.

"I'm sorry," she said. "My name is Claire, and I'm from the Clayton Claymore Clay Company. There was a shipment of clay that I was supposed to deliver. But I can't seem to find the shop. The street names and numbers are so out of order; someone drew me a map, but I can't read the kanji."

"Then you are very fortunate. Mouri no Pottari made the order, and we were expecting it anytime this week." Shin walked around the counter and bowed to Claire. "Thank you for bringing the shipment."

"Oh, it's no problem at all. Where would you like me to place the order?"

"Wait a moment, while I make sure that everything in back is prepared for the delivery," Shin said.

As he moved to the back room yet again, he heard the red headed Claire mutter to herself, "Such a good accent. You can tell he paid attention at school."

It was times like this that Shin really disliked foreigners. He found himself inadvertently twitching at the implications that Claire-san was making and felt offended by them. Oh, he knew that she meant nothing by it; most foreigners never did, but that didn't mean he liked it any more.

There was indeed space for the new clay shipment, and Shin walked back out to the front room to see that there was another customer browsing through the store while Claire waited. Shin suddenly felt tempted to talk about Claire-san to the customer in Japanese, but decided against it. It wasn't nice.

Instead, he walked over to the girl, no older than himself. "Irrashaimasu," he said. ((Welcome.))

"Konnichi wa," the girl said. "Do you sell other types of pottery?" ((Good afternoon.))

"No, my mother specialized only in Hagi-yaki. Our family has lived here for generations."

"Generations?" the girl asked. "Mouri no Pottari… are you related to Mouri Motonari?"

"Hai, very distantly. After all, it was the end of the Muromachi Era." ((Yes… the late 1500s.))

"Of course."

"Mr. Mouri? Is that back room ready?" Shin winced at the horrible American pronunciation of his last name.

"Chotto matte kudasai," Shin said deliberately. He turned back to his customer. "Suminasen. I have to take care of this. Do you need anything?" ((Please wait a moment… Forgive me.))

"No, not for a while. Go cater to that impatient gaijin." The girl then turned and continued to browse. ((foreigner))

Shin walked back over to the redheaded Claire. "I am sorry," he said in English. "The customer always comes first, and I had to make sure that the ojyou-san was taken care of." ((lady))

"Of course, I understand. I didn't mean to rush you. I have a schedule to run, and in that way my customers come first as well. So…"

Shin suddenly felt bad when he heard that and made a mental note not to deliberately make a delivery person wait again. The delivery was handled very quickly, with Claire handling the heavy boxes by herself and carrying it to the back room with little problems. Shin paid for the delivery and Claire gave an odd smile and left.

"That gaijin thinks you're cute," the girl from before said. "That's what the smile was for." ((foreigner))

"That's just great," Shin replied, groaning loudly. "A high school girl dropped by today, and she fell head over heals for me. Now I have Claire-san thinking I'm cute."

"It's only natural," the girl said. "You have soft eyes."

"Eh? Not you too!"

She laughed. "Oh, no. I have a very lovely koibito, thank you. I have to admit, though, I don't mind looking. So, are there still three arrows?" ((boyfriend))

Shin nodded at the reference. Mouri Motonari was famous, among other things, for the lesson of three arrows that he taught to his three sons. He gave each of his sons one arrow and told them to break it. They did so easily. Then he handed them a three-arrow bunch and told them to break it. They could not. Motonari told them that no matter how depressed, alone, or broken they felt, that they were only one of three arrows, and that those arrows together would never break.

"I suppose there are, but they would be in a museum somewhere in the city, not stowed away in the back room."

"I see. You are well acquainted with your history, then?"

"Yes. In Hagi, it is rather hard not to be."

"I suppose that's true. How do you find your history?"

"I, for one, have never believed in fighting, but I understand very well that there are times when it cannot be avoided."

The girl nodded. "You are very interesting, Mouri-san."

"Shin desu." ((It's Shin.))

"Yamagata Hisa desu. Hajimemashite." ((I'm Hisa Yamagata. Pleased to meet you.))

"Yoroshiku," Shin replied. "Your name also indicates you are well routed in history." ((Good to meet you.))

"Not so much as you'd think," Hisa replied. She glanced at her watch. "Oh, shoot, I have to go and I haven't even finished looking through the shop. I'll drop by again, okay?"

"Hai. I look forward to it." ((Okay.))

Hisa left, the door bell ringing as she did so. Now there was a girl that Shin liked. She was well mannered, appreciative of history, and understood some of his problems with foreigners. It was almost a shame that she had a boyfriend. She was pretty too, her long hair well maintained and her face gentle to look at.

Ah, well, such as life. He could really go for a girl like her. Unfortunately she was taken. Too bad. Maybe he could go for a friendship, since she would come to the shop again.

Ryuusuke poked his head out from the back, asking "How are things going up front?"

"Pretty quite," Shin replied, going back to dusting the pots. "Not many customers this afternoon. We might be able to close early for your dinner this evening."

"Hai." ((Sure.))

Ryuusuke disappeared in the back again, leaving Shin to continue polishing. It was strange, he noted. His brother-in-law's behavior seemed, almost, submissive. Very strange.

However, if his onii-san was acting submissive, that would probably be why he and Shin butted heads. Shin generally didn't like it when people were submissive. Everyone had a value and self-worth, but when someone acted submissive, Shin often thought that the person was looking for pity, or had little self-esteem. That would also explain why he had thought Ryuusuke's behavior as one of fear. If Shin had subconsciously been picking up on Ryuusuke's submissive nature, then he would react in kind, which in turn would make his brother-in-law "scared".

Their relationship was more complex than he thought.

Shin finished dusting and looked around the shop before glancing at his watch. It was almost five. He needed to get cooking dinner and soon. That meant he'd have to leave. Shin went to the back room. "Onii-san," he called. ((Ryuusuke?))

"Hai?" ((Yes?))

"Would you mind if you were to take the front? I want to start cooking."

"Hai." ((Fine.))

"Arigatoo." Shin quietly left, getting his bike and starting to head back to his house. The wind was very cool, but the sun remained warm, if in his eyes on the ride home.

Come to think of it, Ryuusuke very rarely ever didn't do what Shin asked. Probably part of the submissive attitude that he took. No, actually it wasn't. Shin paused at an intersection and looked both ways before crossing. His brother-in-law was only submissive to him. Normally, Ryuusuke had an opinion on everything, if uninformed sometimes. Shin's onii-san could easily reason to Shin's mother, Ai, why he couldn't do something, even if it was more convenient for her. He also could get into arguments with Sayoko over how to best look after Natsumi. So Ryuusuke was submissive only to Shin. Why?

Shin shook his head and turned to his house, marveling as he had that morning at its ancient honor. He put his bike back in the storehouse and went into the kitchen. Erika was there, putting away his mother's prescription.

"Okairi nasai," she greeted him. "Your mother is taking a nap right now, and Sayoko and Natsumi-chan are out, probably at Kikugahama. Natsumi-chan more or less begged to go." Erika smiled, and for the first time, Shin noticed that she wasn't as young as she sometimes seemed. "Of course, Sayoko was giggling all day. I don't think she could have taken Natsumi-chan's begging." ((Welcome home.))

"Indeed," Shin agreed. "I've noticed that Onee-san had been acting odd today."

"Never you mind about that," the live-in nurse waved it off. "You have a feast to cook. I think I'll get some reading done. I'll be outside if you need me."

"Hai."

Erika grabbed a book from the counter and went to the engawa, walking to the back, no doubt, to read in the sun. With the house almost empty, it was a perfect time to make his present ready.

Quietly slipping upstairs, Shin retrieved the picture frame and went into his mother's room where she was sleeping. He silently slid open her closet and retrieved the photo album. It only took a moment to find the photo he wanted. Replacing the album, Shin left Ai's room and returned to his own. The picture fit into the frame perfectly. Shin took out a small simple box and placed the gift inside. He also pulled out a card he had bought for them while he was in Tokyo.

Once downstairs, Shin placed the box and the card on the low table in the dining room. Ai and Erika had already placed their gifts there, as well as some other well-wishers who had doubtlessly dropped by while he was out. Come to think of it, Shin should probably have the table set before he started cooking. Nodding to himself, Shin went out to the storehouse and got some sheers.

In the garden, Shin looked over the flowers, trying to decide which ones would be best. He had a general idea of what he wanted, but he wasn't sure which colors would be best. He knew that Sayoko was very fond of pink and purple. But he didn't know what Ryuusuke liked in color. He had a feeling that it was reddish colors, but he could be sure, because he didn't know his onii-san that well. Blast it; he wanted the night to be special for both of them!

"Oi! Shin-san!" ((Hey! Shin!))

Turning, he saw Erika was sitting on the engawa, leaning against one of the supports, waving at him.

"Shouldn't you be cooking?"

Shin smiled and walked over to her. "Actually, I'm trying to find some good flowers for the table. I know what Sayoko likes, but I'm drawing a blank for Onii-san." ((Ryuusuke))

"Can't say as I know that either," the live-in nurse agreed. "But I do know that he likes to wear red ties when he goes to work. Does that help?"

Nodding, he agreed. "Hai. Now I just have to pick which flowers."

Erika offered a small light chuckle. "I can see where that would be a problem." Together they admired the garden for a moment. "Looks like a professional landscaper takes care of it."

"No," Shin answered softly. "Just Sayoko." He turned to Erika and smiled. "I'd better start picking. I'll let you get back to your book."

"Okay."

He carefully snipped some salvia and snapdagon, since their long stems would add some elegance. The sweet alyssum would add delicacy, and the pansy would bring some vibrancy. At least, that was Shin's opinion. Even though he was rather good at flower arrangement, he never paid attention to what certain flowers were supposed to represent. He just had an instinct on what would look good together. Once all the flowers were snipped, he added some amaranth to balance the colors.

Shin brought the flowers into the house and pulled out a crystal vase and filled it with water. Carefully, he placed each flower inside using one hand and the other to keep them set to the way he wanted. Shin had always preferred rikka ikebana. rikka ikebana: sophisticated style of classical Japanese flower arrangement.

It was funny. The other Troopers would often tease him on being too feminine sometimes, mostly because he grew up with women. However, all of them agreed, that he had a talent for cooking and flower arrangement. Though flower arrangement in particular was considered more of a female's job, Shin could often outdo well practiced women. Or so the other Troopers said. Shin didn't put much stock in that though.

Still, he was rather pleased with the end result. He glanced at his watch and noted that he had better get cooking, and quickly. Once in the kitchen, Shin pulled out some pots and a frying pan. With those set, he pulled out a cookbook. Since he was so unfamiliar with Western recipes, it would prove to be a good reference.

The menu for the evening would be Italian. It was simple enough that Shin could do it quickly, but provided enough room for him to add a little more traditional touch if he wanted to. The first step was to get the pasta cooking.

Once the noodles were on the stove, Shin started to cook the sauce. From what he saw in the recipe book, he didn't agree with some of the seasoning, so he chose his own from what he bought earlier. That set, he pulled out the meat from the market and set it on the frying pan and started to cook.

It was amazing what a few years could do. It wasn't all that long ago that he had been fighting for his life with the closest friends he'd ever had, or ever will. Shin had possessed an armor that could destroy a whole city block and allow him to become one with the seas he so loved. Now he had a different armor and no battles to fight, save the common everyday confrontations. What a difference.

In a way, he missed the days when he fought so hard, though it wasn't the fighting he missed. Instead it was the closeness he had with his friends. It tended to be difficult for all five of them to come together because they were spread out all over Japan. But back then, he was able to be with them all the time. There was even that brief time they had spent with Nasutei to make sure that Arago was destroyed and let Ryo heal. He didn't have any worries except for saving the world. Granted, saving the world was a very big worry, but a singular one that he could share with the other Troopers along with Nasutei. Even Jun could help relieve the stress of constantly looking over your shoulder. Even to this day, Shin found himself sometimes stretching out his senses to see if anything or anyone was present.

Shin shook his head and flipped the meat on the pan. Considering that his mode of thought for the entire day had been about Ryuusuke, it was unusual that he started to think about his non-blood family. Still, about the only thing about the Troopers that didn't make them family was blood or marriage. Yet they acted more like a family than Ryuusuke and sometimes even Sayoko did. He really should invite everyone down for a week or so. He missed them. It had been too long since they were all together. The letters they always sent helped, but it wasn't exactly the same as being with them.

The meat was almost finished cooking, so Shin turned off the heat and set the pan aside. The sauce was bubbling and smelled delicious, though it still had a few minutes before it would be done. The pasta was doing well also. Shin was about to taste the sauce when a weight wrapped itself around his leg again.

"Natsumi-chan, okairi nasai." ((Welcome home, Natsumi-chan.))

"Yo, Shin-jii-chama! Tadaima!" ((Hi, Uncle Shin! I'm home!))

"May I please get back to cooking?"

"But I wanna help! This 's a special dinner, ne?" ((right?))

Sayoko finally entered the kitchen, giggling but still sounding serious. "Natsumi-chan. Don't leave your shoes in such a mess at the genkan. Go clean them up." Genkan is the step at a door where you leave your shoes in any Japanese home.

"Hai, Kaa-chan," Shin's niece looked down to the floor dejectedly and headed back to the door. ((Yes, mommy))

"Arigatoo," Shin whispered to Sayoko. "I really don't need her help right now and she'd just get in the way." ((Thanks))

His older sister gave a whimsical laugh and smiled at him. "No problem. Sorry I wasn't back earlier."

Shaking his head, Shin replied, "I didn't even notice you were late." He glanced at the clock. "Six already? I still need to make the salad and warm the bread! Excuse me Onee-san!"

Still smiling, Sayoko quietly left Shin to his cooking.

Natsumi-chan, however, was not so inclined.

"Jii-chama!" Natsumi came into the kitchen again and wrapped herself around his leg. "Who's Motonari-san?" Shin almost fell into the sauce he was stirring.

"Ano…he's a very famous ancestor of ours. Haven't your parents mentioned him at all?" ((Uh))

"That Motonari-san? But I just met 'm today." Natsumi got up and wrapped herself around Shin's leg again. "He w's 'sleep in a shrine."

"Eh?" Shin looked down to his niece and gaped. "Your Okaa-san brought you to the shrine today?" Natsumi nodded vigorously. ((Mommy))

"Aren't anc'st'rs suppose to be in the sky?"

Shin lowered his head. He didn't need this. Not when he was in the middle of cooking. Please not now!

"Natsumi-chan?" Erika came in with Sayoko. The live-in nurse knelt down to the three-year-old's height. "Can you please help me with something?"

"Demo, Jii-chama's 'bout to answer m' question." She squeezed Shin's leg tighter. ((But Uncle Shin))

"I can answer that, now please come with me." Erika unwrapped and picked up Natsumi-chan. "I found some coloring books today that were lacking any color. What do you say we go make them pretty?"

Natsumi's face lit up and the two left.

"Gomen ne," Sayoko apologized. "I took her to the shrine today to ask for Motonari-sama's blessing." ((Sorry))

Shin's head started to whirl. Why had Sayoko needed a blessing? Why? All Sayoko could do was giggle.

"You know, Shin," she laughed, "it won't be long before you're ready for Motonari-sama's blessing. For marriage." Shin almost ended up in the sauce again.

"Nani?" ((What?))

"You're so adorable when you're befuddled, it's almost a crime."

"Onee-san!" ((Sayoko!))

"I'll let you cook now."

Shin was left stock still in the kitchen, with his chin on the floor somewhere.

It was the boiling of the pasta that brought him out of his shocked countenance and returned to cooking.

"Oh no! The pasta is over cooking!"

Shin raced to drain the pasta and tossed it, to make sure that it remained soft. He grabbed a fork, grabbed a few noodles and tasted it. Thankfully, it was still good. Unfortunately, the sauce was starting to bubble too much. Shin immediately turned off all the burners and moved the sauce to a burner that hadn't been used. He tasted as he had with he pasta and was relieved that it was still decent, if too hot at the moment. After placing the bread Sayoko had bought for him in the oven to warm, he covered the sauce and quickly pulled out the vegetables for the salad. He was running late. He was supposed to be dishing everything out by now. Thankfully, the salad didn't take too long to make.

Shin heard a door open, and Ryuusuke entered the kitchen shortly thereafter.

"Tadaima," his brother-in-law greeted. ((I'm home))

"Okairi," Shin replied. "Dinner is almost ready. Please sit at the table." ((Welcome back))

"Hai," Ryuusuke answered quietly. Shin frowned. In his rush to get dinner ready, he had been neglecting that problem. He'd have to think on it some more. But right now, he needed to dish everything out. And quickly.

Shin listened as Erika brought Natsumi in for dinner and Sayoko and Ryuusuke greeted each other. He pulled off his apron and took the bread out of the oven. The bread smelled perfect, and he heard Natsumi starting to complain that she was hungry.

Placing a fresh pair of salad spoons in the salad bowl, he balanced the salad, bread, and butter as he walked over to the table. He set them down and smiled at the various compliments before quickly heading back to the kitchen to dish out the pasta and pour the sauce. With the dishes were set out before everyone, Shin brought out a bottle of milk for Natsumi and a bottle of red wine for everyone else. He let out a quiet sigh and sat down.

"I am glad to see dinner is ready." Everyone turned to the staircase and smiled as Ai finally joined them. "Though I was wondering what was prolonging the wait."

Shin offered a bashful smile. "I don't take teasing very well, Okaa-san."

"As I heard it, everyone was teasing you this afternoon," his mother replied. She took her seat at the head of the table. "Thank you, Shin, for cooking this special dinner tonight."

"C'n I start eatin' now?" Natsumi asked. "I've bin waitin' like ev'yone else."

"A moment, Natsumi-chan," Sayoko answered. "Special evenings take time to make them special. And it's 'May I start eating now'."

Shin smiled. Their mother had often said that when he was growing up, and doubtlessly when his sister was as well.

Ai raised her wine glass and everyone else followed suit. "I propose a toast. I wish that Sayoko and Ryuusuke-san will be as happy in the future as they are now. That when things are difficult, they will turn to each other and their family, who will always be there to support them. That they may continue their life together with the same love and commitment that binds a family together. And most importantly, that they continue to treasure what they have now." Ai raised her glass higher, and everyone did as well, then took a sip from their glasses.

"Baa-chan," Natsumi asked, "Don't you eat toast?"

"You'll understand when you're older," Ai replied.

Erika raised her glass. "Since we're making toasts, I propose to toast the future head of the Mouri family. May she be as wise as her mother."

Shin noticed that as they toasted Ryuusuke looked down. Was that the problem? That he didn't want to be married to the head of a family? No, he knew Ryuusuke enough that such a thing wasn't the problem. He loved Sayoko, no matter whether she was head of the family or not.

Still, with the toasting done, the family settled down into the meal and good conversation. Shin was often complimented on his cooking and he offered polite responses, but his mind was still on Ryuusuke. His onii-san appeared to only be on the submissive side to two people. His mother Ai, and Shin. Now being on the submissive side to Ai was understandable. She was the current head of the family. She deserved that respect. But why would Ryuusuke be submissive to Shin? Shin wasn't worthy of the respect that his mother commanded. He had given up being head of the family in order to be a Trooper.

So why was Ryuusuke so obliging?

"You know, Shin-kun," Erika commented. "It's too bad you're not the next head of the family. I think you'd do a good job."

Shin noticed that Ryuusuke looked down slightly. "Erika-san," Shin answered quietly, "It was decided years ago that I couldn't be the head of the family."

"Yes yes, I know." Erika took another sip of wine, probably too much wine. She wasn't normally so inquisitive about what had clearly been labeled "personal" affairs. "I never did find out why you passed the head of the family to Sayo-chan." Yes, she had definitely had too much wine. "So what did happen?"

"It is something I would rather not discuss," Shin calmly replied.

"Jii-chama had t' save t' world!" Natsumi happily stated. "S' why he trains me! So I cin get t' armor!"

Erika looked to Shin's niece with a lopsided grin. "Natsumi-chan, you've been watching too many samurai cartoons. Besides," the live-in nurse stood up and picked up the little girl. "It's getting close to your bed time."

"I wanna see t' presents!"

"They'll still be their in the morning. Let the grown-ups open what's theirs. Come on."

"Only 'f we do more colorin'."

"Just come along."

"Hai."

Shin glanced around the table. Everyone was more or less done with dinner, so they went to the gifts.

The first gifts to be opened were from the various well wishers that had dropped them off. Shin smiled. Sayoko and Ryuusuke had decided to have a quiet anniversary this year rather than invite all of their friends. It proved to be a good decision, at least for Shin, because it gave him the day to observe and try to figure out Ryuusuke. And as of that moment, Shin knew why Ryuusuke acted the way he did. He'd have to talk to him about it though.

"This is from you, Shin?" Sayoko asked, pulling out the picture. "This is beautiful!"

"Indeed," Ryuusuke agreed. His wife started to giggle. Again.

"Anata," she whispered between giggles, "could you open the next gift?" He nodded and went for the one that Erika had placed there earlier. He opened it and quietly pulled out a CD from a western composer called Tchaikovsky named Swan Ballet. Ryuusuke smiled. ((Dear))

"How very thoughtful of her," Ryuusuke said quietly. "She knows what I like."

"That's good," Sayoko agreed. "We can probably listen to it tonight."

"I'll be sure to translate," he replied, leaning in for a quick kiss.

"Anata!" ((Dear!))

"You have witnesses," Ai calmly stated. Both Sayoko and Ryuusuke blushed brightly.

Sayoko reached for the gift from her mother, which turned out to be a hand made futon blanket. The young couple blushed brightly again.

"Okaa-san!" they both yelled. Ai merely gave an enigmatic smile. ((Mother!))

"Open the last gift," she suggested.

Ryuusuke picked it up and handed it to Sayoko. "For you, my love."

Sayoko smiled and pulled out a beautiful traditional Japanese hair comb.

"When I saw it," Ryuusuke said quietly, the love shining in his eyes, "I could only think of you."

Sayoko wiped a tear from her eyes and hugged him tightly.

Shin cleared his throat. "Ano, Onee-san, where is your gift?"

Sayoko merely flashed everyone a large smile. "I went to the doctor's office the other day."

"Eh?"

"Ryuusuke, anata, you're going to be a father again." ((dear))

"NANI?" ((WHAT?))

Several congratulations followed and Shin slipped into the kitchen to start the dishes and leave Ryuusuke and Sayoko to their celebration. He could talk to Ryuusuke tomorrow after the celebration. His mother was right. His Onii-san was never scared of him. He only thought that he was stealing Shin's claim as the next head of the family. All Shin had to do, hopefully, was explain that he didn't want to be the next head of the family and things should be resolved. However, old habits would most likely die hard.

Undoubtedly, it would take time for Shin and Ryuusuke to stop their old habit of misinterpreting the other. However, the core of their enmity would be addressed, and would hopefully clear a few things up.

With those thoughts finally settled, Shin finished the dishes. He wondered if Sayoko and Ryuusuke's baby would be a girl or a boy. His luck it would probably be a girl. Still, at least he really did have an onii-san now. Another member of the family that he could talk to and no longer have to walk on eggshells with. brother-in-law

Shin slipped out of his clothes and pulled out his futon, sliding into the covers. It had been a very good day. An interesting and surprising one. He was going to be an uncle again. What an amazing thing.

End of the Third Day

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