Let's get the disclaimer out of the way. Neither Fruits Basket nor the Fruits Basket characters belong to me. They are and always will be the property of Natsuki Takaya.

Okay, that's done. Now let me remind you that the plot and all original characters are my property and so I can do with them what I wish. I know it has taken me a bit longer to get this chapter posted than it should have. It's partly Shigure's fault and it's partly the fault of my computer. I inherited my husband's computer which is faster than the one I was using, but it doesn't have Word on it yet. I had to use Microsoft Works WordProcessor and I hate it. There is nothing more infuriating than to spend 3 hours typing a chapter and then having the stupid program develop a glitch and shut down with no chance to save the effort. It happened not once, but twice.At least the chapter is finally done. It ended up much longer than I envisioned, but I think that is okay.

Shigure and I had a major argument over this chapter. He wanted me to write it one way and I wanted to write it another. Eventually I won, but it took some fast talking. Hopefully I am not stepping out of character with Shigure or Tohru because that is not my intent. Please straighten me out if I have. I think I managed to pull it together so that I kept them in character. Read, review, let me know.

Chapter 9 Getting to Know Kythira

Friday morning arrived and Nikolas Stamatelos, or Nikos as he preferred to be called, sat at the family breakfast table with their pair of unexpected guests. His deep blue eyes sparkled with curiosity.

"Before I consent to help in your scheme….don't deny it, you do have a scheme and you want my help. Otherwise; why would two people who speak our language with a native flare insist on Dad honoring an obsolete promise made by my grandfather? This of course leaves me as the only possible choice as interpreter and guide for Shigure Sohma and the very cute Miss Tohru Honda. After all, Japanese is not a common language in our land and our family is the only one on Kythira that speaks it. If Dad can't do it, then it has to be me. Now, as I was saying, before I consent to help you I want to know what I am getting into this time."

"That's what I like about you Nikos, your intelligence and your appreciation of very cute women everywhere. Reminds me of myself when I was your age. Don't you think so Esme?"

"Of course Alfred dear; that is why you married me after all." Esme Sanderson spoke with an affectionate smile and Nikos was reminded of why he loved and respected this couple. Their romance had endured for forty plus years. It seemed their life was a perpetual honeymoon.

Esme patted her husband's arm and turned back to the young man. "Nikos I know you've only just met her, but don't you think Tohru Honda is one of the loveliest, sweetest girls you've ever met?" she gushed enthusiastically.

"Yes she is and Shigure seems to be my kind of person, ready for mischief at the drop of a hat. This still doesn't explain why it has to be me and not Dad."

Alfred glanced around. "Petra is already at the villa for work isn't she? I don't want her to overhear this conversation."

"She is, but why do you ask?"

"You're an intelligent lad, I'm sure you can figure it out."

"Other than the fact that she is a female predator, I haven't a clue." Nikos grimaced at the thought of his older sister. He detested Petra almost as much as he loved his younger sister, Zoe.

"Bingo! Now as for our scheme as you call it. Esme and I are working on an important case involving those two at the villa."

"That much I have figured out. I have no objections to being the guide and interpreter especially when one of the clients is an attractive young woman. I do think you need to get to the point though. What other role do you have in mind for me?"

Alfred took in the young man's impatience and winked at Esme. He turned to Nikos. "Be patient lad. I'm going to tell you a story and when I'm done, you will know what we're asking."

"I always do enjoy your stories Alfred. Let's hear it." Nikos sat back in his chair, an expectant look upon his features. This should be good…

"Once there was a kingdom of Winter and it was ruled by a young emperor. The only way this young emperor knew how to rule was to make all of his subjects bow to his own desires and needs. His words were poison and any disobedience was cruelly punished. Though his subjects feared and hated him, they obeyed him because, to them, the emperor was God and they owed their lives to him. This went on for many years until a young girl from the kingdom of Spring was shipwrecked upon his shores. She brought the breath of Spring into this dark winter-bound kingdom ruled by the young emperor. Her Spring breeze began to melt the ice surrounding his subjects' hearts and minds. They began to realize there was more to life than they had been led to believe. There was light, there was hope, and there was laughter. The emperor fought the coming of Spring with all of his might and was to the point of banishing her from his kingdom forever. She looked at him with tear-filled eyes. Do anything you want to me, but remember, you are alive right now and when you die we will be saddened because we love you. You see, this young emperor was cursed from birth to die young for the sake of his people. From that moment, he began his surrender to Spring. He had plotted to keep his people as miserable as he was, but now he plotted for their happiness. It was a slow process and he knew he would make a lot of mistakes so he searched for outside help.

That brings us to our case. The young emperor is our client, only in reality he is the head of the Sohma family."

"And of course Miss Honda is the breath of spring within his family. Is it a large family?"

"Exactly, and yes it is a large family. In the case of Shigure and Tohru, he wants to be sure he isn't making a mistake and that the feelings developing between the two are for real. That's where you come in Nikos. You are young, you are handsome, and you are not averse to flirting with women. So far most of Miss Honda's interaction with men has been with various members of the Sohma family. What our client is trying to do is find out if these ties of affection hold up when met by outside competition. We wish you to provide a friendly rivalry for Tohru's affections. Esme and I have been observing them over the last few days and it seems there really is a spark between the two. We think you can be the key to either igniting it or putting it out."

"I don't mind providing friendly competition, but what if I get caught in this trap we are devising and really fall in love with her. Or….what if she falls for me?"

Esme and Alfred shared a look. "I told you he would ask Esme."

"Yes dear you did, and you were right."

"That is the risk in what we are asking you to do Nikos. We have considered it carefully. For Miss Honda, we feel the risk is very small. We can't help but believe whoever she falls in love with is certain to return her love. I suppose you could say that our short acquaintance with her has made a huge impact already.But as for you Nikos; f you should fall in love with her, go for it with your whole heart and with our blessing. May the best man win. All we have to lose is our commission which was the cost of our trip and expenses. We only accepted the case because it was interesting, not because we needed the money. If we succeed in pairing the two, it won't be at the cost of someone we care about. You are important to us and we will never keep you from pursuing your heart's desires. It's up to you if you accept this role or not."

Nikos grinned. "What's life or love without risk? Besides, I decided I'd like to match wits with Shigure Sohma during the boat trip from Piraeus. Dmitri made sure it wouldn't happen on his boat, but that's okay. He does know me well doesn't he?"

Alfred chuckled. "I know you'll do this in the spirit of fun and romance."

"You know I will! It's time I headed up to the villa myself. I promised Tohru and Shigure some lessons in Greek before Dmitri shows up for the guided tour today."

"Nikos!" Suddenly a petite bundle of flying black hair and sparkling brown eyes was blocking his path.

"Zoe, good morning. You are up early today."

"You lummox, I'm up every morning and you know it. I've already run five miles this morning and showered and just look at you lollygagging at the breakfast table!"

"Well, aren't we on a tear this morning Zoe girl? What's up with that?"

Zoe smiled beatifically. "You're such an intelligent big brother; you always know when I want something."

"Bright eyes, I might be smart but I'm not a mind reader so are you going to tell me what you want?"

"Of course I am. I want to come along to the villa with you today and meet our new guests. I heard the gentleman is quite handsome and oh so elegant, and that he must be rich."

"And you must have talked to Petra…"

"Yeah, what gave me a way, the rich or the elegant phrase? Seriously though Nikos, I would like to meet them and help make them welcome."

He put an affectionate arm about Zoë's shoulders. "Come on kid, your wish is my command."

Zoe shrugged off his arm. "I'm 20 years old now you know. That hardly makes me a child to your illustrious old age of 24."

Nikos laughed at her. "I know but it always gets to you when I do. Let's go." The two left with Zoe skipping a step or two to catch up with her brother's longer strides.

"Esme, I just don't understand how Petra can come from this family and still be as she is."

"That's one of the great mysteries of life Alfred. Maybe Petra was hurt badly when still quite young. We'll probably never really know."

While Nikos was enjoying breakfast with the Sandersons, life at the villa was already becoming interesting. Shigure found himself up early again Tohru is just not good for my sleeping habits he mused. If he kept this up he was going to ruin his hard-earned slothful reputation. He sat by the window in his comfortable yukata, a cup of strong black Greek coffee and a pack of cigarettes keeping him company. It was a much stronger brew than he was used to but he liked it. There was a knock on his door and he invited the person to enter. The scent of heady perfume came first and he knew it must be the lovely but cold Petra.

"Good Morning Shigure. It's a lovely day, would you like me to open up your curtains. I can run your bath for you as well if you like."

Shigure allowed his expression to show an appreciative gleam as he took in her face and form. Maybe he would have a little fun…"yes please do run my bath for me…I wonder…No it would probably be asking too much…"

Petra gave him an arch look. "You might be surprised at how much I am willing to do…" The unspoken 'for you' was loud in the room.

"Well, when you put it that way; it's been a very long time since my back has been scrubbed by a beautiful woman. Could I prevail upon you to…?"

"Scrub your back? That does fall within what I am willing to do. Are you sure that is all you want to ask of me?"

"Quite sure…for now... Perhaps when we get to know each other better I may think of something else."

"Very well sir. I'll start with your bath and from there who knows?"

As Petra was running his bath there was a light knock at his door which he immediately recognized. "Hai Tohru-kun, please come in."

"Good morning Shigure-san. It's a beautiful day isn't it? I just wanted to let you know Nikos will be here in about thirty minutes for our first Greek lesson. Did you have breakfast? Can I get anything for you?"

"Tohru-kun, take it slowly please. This is a working vacation, but you don't have to wait on me. That's why there is staff here at the villa."

"I know Shigure-san. It's just habit I suppose, but I do miss that part of my days. I just thought that maybe…"

"Shigure, the bath is ready. When would you like me to come in and scrub your back?"

Tohru's eyes widened just a little. "I'm sorry; I didn't know you were getting ready to bathe. I'll come back later." She started to back out of the room, "Oh, and hello Petra-san."

Shigure hastened to reassure Tohru that she was not intruding on his privacy. Petra's eyes narrowed, she might not understand much Japanese but she could certainly interpret his tone of voice. What did he see in that pale milksop of a girl? "Tohru-kun, no apology needed. I did invite you in if you will remember. I'll be ready for our lessons and the guided tour today. Also, please remember, the weekends will be just you and I so you will be needed then. You know how well I don't take care of myself."

Tohru's eyes brightened. "That's true, I'll see you in a while Shigure-san."

Shigure was thankful that Tohru didn't understand all of what Petra had said. He wanted to have fun but at Petra's expense not Tohru's. Petra reminded him too much of a girl from his past. He wouldn't fall in that trap again. He turned to Petra. "Give me five minutes and come in."

"Very good, in five minutes then."

Tohru had not realized that Petra was in Shigure's room until she had come out of the bath room. Apparently Shigure enjoyed having other people prepare his baths for him. She remembered him asking her to do so at the hotel. She also recalled how he had looked in the bath. He was such a beautiful person, sometimes he really confused her emotions when she was close to him but she was learning that was okay. In time she would figure out the reason why. Since there was still a while before Nikos was due she decided to investigate her suite of rooms more thoroughly. She crossed the hall to enter her rooms and bumped into Kyriaki who was on her way out of them. "Oh, I'm so sorry Kyriaki-san. You are okay aren't you? You aren't hurt?"

"I'm just fine, Tohru." Kyriaki applied the beginning Japanese as best she was able.

Tohru smiled in response. "Please come in. I thought I would do some exploring of my rooms, perhaps you can help."

"Thank you, I'll show you around." The two girls were able to communicate with gestures when language barriers arose. As they examined different items in the rooms, Tohru would say the Japanese name for it and Kyri would say the Greek name. By the time they were done with their exploration, each girl knew a little more of the other's language. Kyriaki and Tohru went through the three rooms and the bath that had been allotted for Tohru's own personal living space. She was amazed at all the hidden nooks and crannies in the room and thought they were wonderful. Kyriaki also showed her a secret passage that led to the beach. "How exciting, I can't wait to try it out!" Tohru exclaimed.

The rooms were decorated in pastel greens and yellows with pink accents that were picked up in both the curtains and the bedspread. "This is so big and so beautiful! It really is too much! I must be one of the happiest people in the world right now!"

The two girls exchanged smiles and left the rooms to explore the rest of the villa but were halted by the ringing of the front doorbell. "Just a moment Tohru, I'll go see who it is." Kyriaki suggested.

"Okay, I'll wait."

She opened the door to admit Nikos and his sister. "Zoe, Nikos, please come in! Tohru you haven't met Zoe yet.'

Tohru joined Kyriaki at the door and Nikos gave her a smile. "Tohru-kun, allow me to introduce you to my sister, Zoe. Zoe this is Tohru Honda.'

"Hello, I'm very pleased to meet you."

"And I'm pleased to meet you."

"Zoe, you speak Japanese so well. That's amazing!"

Nikos looked at his younger sister in surprise.

"What? I couldn't let the men in our family be the only ones fluent in Japanese! That would leave me out of the conversation if you tried to be secretive in plain hearing." She turned to Kyri. "If you like, I can help you and Miki with your Japanese."

"That's okay; Nikos already offered to teach us."

"Nikos…" Zoe looked speculatively at her older brother as he talked to Tohru and seemed oblivious to Kyri's presence. She noted how Kyri kept watching him from the corner of her eye. Oh ho, so that's how the wind is beginning to blow. I wonder if I can help Kyri with this. "Speaking of Miki, where is she?"

"She's still sleeping. She'll probably come to visit after lunch. She's getting stronger every day but still tires easily. Not that I can get her to admit it of course."

"Of course. I'll look forward to seeing her later then."

Just at that moment Shigure came out of his rooms once again in western attire. His gaze took in all the girls at the front door and he smiled. "If my eyes don't deceive me, we have a bevy of beautiful flowers, one of whom I haven't yet met. I am Shigure Sohma and you are…"

"Zoe Stamatelos very pleased to meet you Mr. Sohma."

"Call me Shigure please; where I live there are too many Mr. Sohma. And then there is the fact that it is way too formal for our stay on this lovely island. Wouldn't you agree Tohru-kun?"

Tohru's attention was instantly drawn to Shigure as he spoke. Nikos observed with a wry smile that his charm wasn't quite a match for Shigure's charismatic presence.

"That is true Shigure-san. If Yuki-kun, Kyo-kun, Momiji, Haru-san and Hatori-san all preferred to be called Sohma-san, life would be very confusing."

"Then Shigure-san it shall be." Zoe agreed with a grin.

Sofia walked out of the kitchen and saw the group assembled in the hallway. "Petra, Kyria, there's work to be done."

"Yes ma'am."

"Nikos, Zoe, hello. I'll leave Tohru and Shigure to your tender ministrations for now. Lunch is at noon sharp, don't be late."

"We won't Aunt Sofi," Nikos promised. He turned to the guests. "Where shall we take our first lessons in Greek?"

"Let's use my study" Shigure suggested. Shigure's suite was as masculine in décor as Tohru's was feminine. The royal blue and gold color scheme seemed perfect for Shigure in Tohru's opinion. His study was dominated by a large red wood desk where he had already set up his computer. Several chairs were scattered about the room on the thick blue carpet and the shelves were overflowing with books published in many languages. It was a room that invited one to read and to research.

"This will do nicely,' Nikos admitted as he arranged the chairs for the four of them to sit together.

Shigure found himself enjoying the lesson thoroughly. Nikos was a talented teacher and Zoe did very well in the assistant's role. He watched the interaction amongst the girls as closely as he listened to Nikos conducting the lesson.

Zoe and Tohru immediately clicked with each other and by the end of the lesson were almost best friends. As the lesson came to a close the front doorbell rang once again. As they stepped into the hallway Sofia was admitting Dmitri and a woman that could only be Marina. Tohru recognized her immediately from the picture on his boat.

"Captain Dmitri, it's so pleasant to see you again." Tohru greeted him in the halting Greek she was just beginning to learn. Dmitri acknowledged her efforts with a smile and returned her greeting. Afterwards he turned to Nikos. "Nikos, introduce Marina to our guests, please."

"Tohru, Shigure, this is Marina Doukatelis. Marina, this is Miss Tohru Honda and Mr. Shigure Sohma."

"I am so happy to meet you. Please call me Tohru. Captain Dmitri, she's even more beautiful than the photo on your boat!"

"Pleased to meet you Marina. My name is Shigure."

Marina said hello to both of them trying out the unfamiliar names. It sounded delightful, just like rippling water.

"Dmitri, are you sure you didn't capture a mermaid or a sea nymph. I've seldom heard such a beautiful voice." Marina smiled in response to Shigure's implied compliment.

Dmitri chuckled. "Sometimes it does seem I've captured an otherworldly creature," he admitted. With her silvery hair and turquoise eyes, Tohru did find her to be exceptionally lovely.

Marina's laugh was full of music. "Dmitri, do stop, you know I am just as human as anyone in this room."

There was general all around laughter and Shigure winked at Tohru. Nikos saw Tohru grin back in acknowledgement and suspected that there was probably a secret there between the two.

After a little more chatter, Marina excused herself so she could go find Kyriaki and spend some time with her best friend.

"Dmitri, do you think we could fit Zoe in the Land Rover with the rest of us. She speaks Japanese almost as well as I do so I thought we could possibly provide two guides and interpreters for the price of one. You would enjoy that, wouldn't you Zoe?"

Nikos' invitation received an enthusiastic hug from his sister.

"Sure, why not? Tohru and Zoe are both petite, I'm sure they could both ride in the back with you.

"Excellent that is settled then. Shigure, I should probably ask if you have any objections to the arrangement."

"Not at all. Dmitri and I both speak French in addition to our native languages so I am sure we will get along quite well."

Sofia announced that lunch was ready and the five of them gathered at the table. Marina joined them shortly afterwards and they all discussed plans for the coming days.

"Shigure-san"

"Hai Tohru-kun?"

"I just wanted to say thank you so much for allowing me to come along! I've met so many wonderful people and had so many new experiences; I just can't wait to see what happens next!"

"I must say I agree with Tohru as to being excited about what we are going to do next. Tell me Dmitri, what are we going to do this afternoon."

"I thought today we would tour Chora, Kapsali, Kastri, and Kourvonades. Tomorrow we'll do the rest of the island. You'll find it's a very small island but rich in history and mythology."

"Indeed it is. That is why we chose this location for our research. I look forward to today's adventure."

"Me too, I just can't wait to see everything!" Tohru said enthusiastically. "And Zoe-san, I am so happy you are coming too! Thank you so much for agreeing to work with us. It will be fun having another person to help us. Don't you think so Shigure-san?"

Especially since two of our party are very lovely girls…they still look like they are in high school. "Of course Tohru-kun. Dmitri that covers today and tomorrow but what of Sunday?"

"I thought you two would like some time to yourselves on Sunday so that you could become more accustomed to our island and put together an action plan for your research. I don't mind working tomorrow, but I do need at least one day a week for Marina and I."

"But of course, I think Tohru-kun and I will be okay being left to our own devices on the weekend. You will have every Saturday and Sunday off after tomorrow. Will that be satisfactory?"

"Yes. Thank you, Shigure. Oh, by the way, I have a package out in the Rover that came by mail boat today. Let me go get it for you. I think there are a couple of letters as well."

"Dmitri go ahead and discuss your plans with our guests, I'll go get the package and letters," Marina offered as she lithely moved from her seat. Dmitri sat back down. "Thank you."

Marina returned quickly with a small package and handed it to Shigure. She had also brought in four letters, one of which she handed to Shigure and three to Tohru.

"Hmmm…what is this?" Shigure said as he eyed the package. "It's from Akito so I suppose we should go ahead and open it, right Tohru-kun?"

"Hai, we should."

He quickly divested the package of it's wrapping and found himself holding two cell phones. "Cell phones…? I don't know how much use these will be…"

"May I see them Shigure?"

He handed the phones to Nikos. "Oh, I understand. These are the latest in satellite technology. You can contact and be contacted by people in any part of the world with these."

"How wonderful! Shigure-san, we'll be able to get in touch quickly with everyone back home. These are terrific!"

"I should have known something like this would happen. Akito doesn't like to allow too much freedom, even now."

"Ehh…aren't you happy about this Shigure-san?"

Shigure pasted on a smile. "Of course I am Tohru-kun. I'll call Akito tonight and let him know that we received them." This is going to cause major disruptions to my plans if Akito has given everyone our phone numbers. It isn't enough that there are many people here that I have to share her with, now I'll have to share her with my cousins as well…" By the way Tohru-kun, who are your letters from? Mine is from Ayame."

"Oh, let me see. There is one from Momiji, one from Kagura, and one from Yuki-kun. I'll read them tonight when I have time to reply I think."

"Dmitri, are we ready to go?" Zoe asked impatiently.

Dmitri glanced at Zoe and then back to Shigure. "Are you ready Shigure? This tour is for you and Tohru after all…it doesn't matter that others are impatient." Zoe stuck her tongue out at Dmitri and Nikos and Marina laughed at her antics.

"Yes, let's go. Sofia, my dear, will you please plug these phones in so they can be charging while we are exploring?"

"Of course Shigure. I'll do that right now." As she accepted the phones he whispered "I'll pay you extra if you forget where you plug them in."

Sofia shook her head. "You might not mind if I did, but I am certain she will." Shigure sighed.

"You are right of course."

Sofia smiled sympathetically. "I'm sure you'll figure something out if it disturbs you this much."

"I'm sure I shall and then I'll have to convince Tohru-kun it's a good idea. That will be fun!" His gray eyes brightened immediately and Sofia chuckled.

After giving Sofia a quick kiss on the cheek he grabbed Tohru's hand and pulled her out the door. "Let's go, time waits for no one!"

"Shigure-san" Tohru laughed happily.

"Shigure, if I'm not mistaken you are the one we were waiting for" Zoe said dryly.

"And worth the wait" he replied with a grin. He turned to help Tohru climb into the back of the Land Rover and Zoe exchanged a glance with her brother.

"I have not yet begun to fight," Nikos said and Zoe grinned in response.

Tohru moved to the center of the seat so that Nikos and Zoe could hop in on either side of her. Shigure did his best to concentrate on Dmitri's narrative and to ignore the fact that Nikos was seated very close to Tohru in the seat just behind him. Her giggles and enthusiastic replies to Nikos commentary did not help his concentration in the matter. Zoe watched the situation with interest. She was certain that if Shigure had been a dog his ears would be pointed back trying to catch every word. Nikos and Tohru carried on an animated conversation as he indicated the points of interest found in Chora and entertained her with facts and stories about the island capital. After getting out and surveying the palace housing the historical archives and a small cathedral dedicated to the Virgin, they approached the Archaeological Museum. Once there they got out and entered the Museum. Tohru and Shigure were both interested in the displays there. "I think these are going to be very useful in our research Tohru-kun."

"Hai, I think so too. I am looking forward to beginning our research on Monday."

After a short time at the museum they returned to the car and headed back to Kapsali. Dmitri halted the rover at the foot of a steep cliff. There was a footpath ascending its height and stopping at a small white chapel on the summit. "That is the Church of St John. The entrance to the cave where he would have written Revelations if not for pirate troubles is within. He ended up going to Patmos from here. "Let's save this trek for anothertime as there is still much I want to show you today."

After visiting the Monastery of the Virgin and the village of Karvounades, they headed back to the villa. On the way Nikos pointed out the ancient site that had once been home to the Temple of Aphrodite and he aslo indicated the Chapel of Saint Kosmas.

Zoe explained that the chapel had been built from the stones of the temple. "I suppose that is just one more indication of the changes that have taken place on Kythira through the centuries. This was a definite move away from pantheism and into monotheism. I find it a little sad that so much of the past has been set aside."

Tohru found herself agreeing with Zoe's sentiments.

They returned to the villa just as the sun was completing it's daily journey . They watched it until it had gone to its well-earned rest and nightfall began its approach.As the evening grew darker the mist began creeping in from the sea.Tohru worried that it might keep them from exploring the rest of the island on the next day but Nikospromised her that provenza, as the mist was called, would be gone long before they began their explorations..

As everyone was leaving to go home Tohru asked Sofia if there was enough food for extra guests. Sofia confirmed that there was probably enough for four or five people. Tohru turned to Nikos and Zoe. "I've really enjoyed the day and hate to have it end. Won't you stay and eat dinner with us tonight."

Nikos saw Shigure scowl momentarily and that decided things for him immediately. This was one of the opportunities the Sandersons had asked him to take advantage of when it occurred. "I'd love to stay for dinner Tohru-kun. Thank you so much for inviting me."

"Wonderful, and Zoe…"

"Tohru I would love to stay but it's my turn in the kitchen tonight. Since Momma passed on each of us children takes a turn helping papa in the kitchen. Invite me again, okay?"

"Okay, I will. I'll see you tomorrow then."

Petra had been following the conversation and decided to join. "Shigure would it be too terribly inconvenient if I were to join you and Miss Honda for dinner?" It was Nikos turn to scowl and of course that decided Shigure.

"But of course, please do…that is okay isn't it Tohru-kun?"

"Sure. Petra please do join us."

Zoe gave Nikos a sympathetic look as she and Kyri started down the path.

The four of them sat down to dinner and Nikos immediately turned his attention to Tohru. That seemed to be Petra's cue to begin talking to Shigure who was a little surprised to find her quite knowledgeable about literary works and to find himself actually enjoying the conversation. For just a while he would ignore Tohru and Nikos' end of the table and give a beautiful woman his full attention.

Petra flourished under the attention. Shigure could tell that she thought she had her hooks into him. He would allow her to continue thinking so, that should keep her from concentrating too much on his feelings for Tohru which only strengthened each day. He didn't want Tohru to have to face the wrath of a jealous she-cat and he had no doubt but that Petra would be that if she decided Tohru was a threat. He would be walking a fine line for a while if he continued such a dangerous game.

When the meal was done, Tohru cleared the dishes away with some help from Nikos. "I'll dry while you wash" he offered.

"Thank you very much Nikos."

Once the clean up was complete Tohru expressed a wish to go for a walk before everyone had to go home. "It's a beautiful night and the mist really adds to the magical feel of this island."

"Tohru-kun, you seem to be caught up in the magical, mystical, and mythical this trip" Shigure said with a grin.

"Hai, I suppose I am Shigure-san. This land just seems made for believing in the magical and mythical."

As Nikos and Tohru preceded Shigure and Petra out the door the two of them linked hands as if they had know each other for a very long time. Petra noticed the direction of Shigure's gaze and placed her hand on his arm. "Shigure, we could just stay here and leave the beach to them…"

"Actually Petra, there is nothing that I like better than a stroll in the moonlight with a lovely woman on my arm. Won't you join me?"

"If you are certain you don't want to stay in and find some other entertainment."

"Thank you for the offer but tonight I must admit I am a bit tired. I think a walk is about all I could manage."

"Perhaps another time then…"

"Perhaps"

They followed along after Nikos and Tohru but the mist obscured the view and Shigure lost sight of the two of them. He better not try anything with her…

Nikos noticed that they had become separated from his sister and her escort. Just what I was hoping for…

"It's a beautiful night isn't it Tohru-kun."

"It really is. I'm so glad we came for a walk." They talked idly for a while and halted by a cave opening from the cliff out onto the beach. "I wonder where this leads to?"

Nikos grinned. "I know. It leads to your rooms in the villa."

"So this is where the secret passage comes out. Amazing! There are so many fun and new things to discover here. I wish we had a light so we could explore it a little."

"Perhaps later, there are torches along the passage, but I don't have anything to light them with at the moment."

"I suppose I should be sure and take a flashlight then if I decide to explore on my own."

"Please don't do that Tohru, the pathway and walls are not totally stable and you could get caught in a landslide. If you like I will come with you, but please don't go alone. Promise me."

"I promise."

"Thank you."

Nikos looked down at the girl by his side and realized that it would be all too easy to love her. She accepted everyone with such innocence and joy. He was going to have to be very careful if he was going to be of any help to the Sandersons. "Tohru…"

"Yes, Nikos?"

He bent down and kissed her lightly on the lips. "That's just for being you and for being my friend. I think we are going to have a lot of fun while you are here."

Tohru raised her hand to her lips. "You surprised me! It is I who should thank you for your kind regard. Being here on Kythira is already wonderful and I've learned so much from you already. I know it is just going to get better."

He tucked her hand under his arm and grinned. "We better get back to the house, it is beginning to get a little bit colder than it was when we first started. If you don't mind, I'd love a hot cup of tea before I head home."

"Sure let's go."

They retraced their steps and met up with Shigure and Petra who had been about five minutes behind them. Petra looked a bit disgruntled, as if she hadn't quite achieved her goal and Nikos said a silent cheer for Shigure. He definitely would be a worthy opponent.

Shigure paused when he saw the two of them returning. "Tohru-kun, Nikos, I was beginning to get worried when I lost sight of you. Are you okay Tohru-kun?"

"Hai. Nikos took very good care of me."

"He did? I wonder what Yuki-kun and Kyo-kun are going to think of a little bit of competition for their princess…"

"Shigure-san, it's nothing like that!"

"I'm not so sure they are going to feel the same way." he said with a grin.

The four of them returned to the house and Tohru prepared tea for everyone. After drinking the hot beverage, Nikos took Petra by the arm. "Sister dear, I think it is time the two of us headed home, it is getting quite late."

Petra glared at her brother and Shigure stepped in smoothly. "Petra, Nikos, it has been a pleasure having you here, but Tohru-kun and I have had a long day and we still have some planning to do and mail to read before we go to bed tonight. We'll see you tomorrow Nikos, and Petra, I'll see you Monday morning. Good night now."

Nikos had to admire the way he and Petra found themselves on the road before she even realized what had happened.

After Petra and Nikos were gone, Shigure turned to Tohru. "Tohru-kun, I for one would like another cup of tea and would like to read our letters from home. How about you?"

"Yes, I would too. Let me get the tea and some refreshments. Sofia left us some cookies and a cake that looks really delicious. We can sit in my study while we read our mail. Oh, Shigure-san, I just remembered. We were supposed to call Akito tonight weren't we?"

"I thought of that Tohru-kun, but then while it is only 9:00 here, it is 4 am in the morning back home. I think perhaps we should wait until tomorrow to call, don't you?"

"Oh…I'm so glad you remembered the time difference. It would be very rude to call them so early in the morning. We must remember to do so tomorrow though."

"We will. We can call them before Dmitri and our two guides arrive."

Shigure entered Tohru's study and made himself comfortable on the large sofa that sat near the crackling hearth. The night had gotten cold and the warmth from the fire felt wonderful. Tohru joined him shortly afterwards and knelt at the coffee table opposite Shigure as she served the tea and cake.

"Tohru-kun, why don't you join me here on the couch. It is quite comfortable and where you are the fire might get a little too hot. This way we can share our letters as well."

"That's a wonderful idea Shigure-san." Tohru joined him on the sofa and began to open her letters.

Shigure-san, it sounds like Yuki-kun and Kyo-kun started the term ranked at the top of their classes. They are doing great aren't they? I'm so happy and it sounds as if Yuki-kun is happy too. He has made some good friends although he feels Kyo-kun has made more and fits in better with the other students. It's just like Yuki-kun to say that."

"Yes it is. Yuki has always been that way; always thinking that he doesn't fit in with everyone else. I suppose that was a result of his treatment at Sohma house. I must admit though, he's changed quite a bit since coming to live at my house and is much more comfortable with others. I'm sure that's due to my wonderful influence and guidance…"

Tohru began to giggle. "I'm sorry Shigure-san, it's just that I don't quite see Yuki-kun agreeing with that statement."

Shigure rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Yes, you are probably right Tohru-kun. He would say he had triumphed over my bad influence. Ah…Ayame's letter also includes a letter from Ha-san. It seems things are quiet at the main house right now except…What's this? Kureno was given permission to go to America…why would he want to do that and why would Akito allow it?"

"America? Uo-chan is there. I wonder…"

"Of course, that explains why. Oh and good news…Akito is doing well. He hasn't been ill in the last few weeks. Ayame says business is good and he hopes that…well let's skip that part of his letter."

Tohru looked questioningly at him.

"It's nothing Tohru-kun, just private between Ayame and me. So what do Momiji and Kagura have to say?" Shigure sighed in relief when his conversational gambit distracted Tohru. He'd have to be careful in reading Ayame's letters to Tohru; the snake was much too direct in his ideas of what Shigure should be doing about his feelings for Tohru. At least, Ayame was okay with Shigure making his play. For the longest time he had done his utmost to get Tohru and his dear little brother together. So sorry Yuki, but you waited too long. I am going to take her now..

"Oh, Momiji says about the same thing as Hatori-san did. There is a little more though, he and Haru have two classes together at the junior college. This is their last year there; they'll be attending a university next year. Kagura says all is fine at our house and that we shouldn't worry."

"That's good to know although I wasn't worried, much. Kagura is responsible most of the time."

"Yes she is." Tohru got up from her seat and went into the library for a moment. She returned shortly with a couple of trays and paper and ink. "Here we are. Let's answer the letters, and then they will be ready to go out tomorrow. Nikos said there is a mail boat every day except Sunday."

Tohru sat at the far end of the couch and curled her legs beneath her as she was writing. Shigure tried to concentrate on replying to Ayame and Hatori, but her presence was a major distraction. It seemed like all day she had been concentrating on Nikos. It wasn't true, he knew that, but it did seem that way.

"There, all done. Are you almost done Shigure-san?"

"Not really Tohru-kun. I've been watching you all this time, did you know?"

"Me? But why?"

He moved down to her end of the couch and she looked at him expectantly. "Do you need something Shigure-san?"

"Yes I do. This…" His hands caressed her face and his lips captured hers. Tohru accepted his kiss and returned it with her own. Slowly he ran his fingers across her face and down along her neck. He moved from her lips to her ears and back, slowly working his way down her neck.

"Shigure-san…"

"Quiet Tohru-kun, I've been wanting to do this all day." She watched him with wide sea blue eyes. This was a new experience and she wasn't quite sure how to respond. Goose bumps arose on her skin as his lips shifted from her neck to her lips to her ears and back again. He sighed as she relaxed against his arm. Tentatively she raised her hand to his face and trailed it along his jaw line. The gentle touch of her fingers was replaced by the tender touch of her lips and he paused as she experimented with her own brand of kisses. He shivered in pleasure and pulled her closer. When she was as close as possible without triggering the curse, he kissed her once again. She sighed softly as his lips left hers and she leaned against his shoulder.

He placed his arm about her waist and they sat in contentment watching the fire blazing in the hearth. After a few minutes he heard her breathing even out and discovered she had fallen asleep on his shoulder. He smiled softly and slipped away from her. She slid down on the sofa and he moved her so that her full length was on the cushions. After taking a quilt from the linen closet and covering her he kissed her forehead. "Good night Tohru-kun"

She murmured sleepily, "Good night Shigure". He made sure the fire was banked and turned the lights out except for one in case she woke in the night. She snuggled into the quilt more fully and a tender smile tugged at his lips. "One day Tohru-kun, I will make you mine" he whispered. A gentle sigh was the only response.

Author's Notes: If you have enjoyed this chapter, perhaps you would be willing to check out another story I have been working on. It is called "When Spring Comes Remember Me" This is a Fruits Basket fanfic and was authored byYuki Seki. It's listed in my favorites if you can't find it, just go to my profile page and look at my favorites. Yuki and I started working on this story together along about Chapter 14 or 15. However, it seems she is turning the story over to me to complete because she has a lot of other things going on in her life right now. If you don't mind, check it out and let me know what you think. The latest chapter has just been posted...I got permission from Yuki to do so. Let me know what you think of our cooperative effort.