Title: Need (sequal)
Disclaimer: I DON'T OWN SHAMAN KING!
NG: This has got to be the longest fic I have EVER written. And I really enjoyed every part of it so I hope you would too! Please don't forget to leave a review.
Story:
It's funny when I find myself
lookin from the outside
I'm Standing here
but all I want
is to be over there
Anna sighed in relief as she slid the compartment door shut. Leaning her head against it, she mentally thanked Kami-sama and Amidamaru for letting her escape. She really had no idea what had gotten into her. Everyday facing Yoh seemed harder and harder. She couldn't use his training excuse anymore to get rid of him whenever she felt that urge. And she couldn't help but feeling that he was falling in love with Tamao.
Normally she would bite his head off as soon as that thought would enter her mind. But then she had seen his expression while he read those pink slips. And she couldn't bring herself to confront him about it. When she had came close to stop being in denial, when she had almost ran away, Yoh had caught her. Anna knew Yoh more than anyone. Or she thought she did. But that evening everything had suddenly became clearer. Yoh had kissed her. Yes. But he said he needed her. Because if she recalled correctly, that was what she had mentioned the night she had dozed off crying. It was only a matter of time before Yoh realized he was in love with Tamao. And with the slips, it didn't looked like it would take much longer.
And who could blame him? The more she thought about it, the more Yoh and Tamao seemed perfect for each other.
Sure she was weak when it came to shamanic abilities. And courage. But she would always surpass her limit especially when it came to Yoh. And with just a few more lessons, Anna knew she had the potential to become the perfect candidate as an Asakura bride, but Yoh had chosen her. Even when she told him not to. Then again Yoh never really knew what was good for him. He wouldn't even have been the shaman king if he had had his way. Training was another thing, but LEAVING his oracle bell beside the river?! The guy could not be expected to know what was good for him. He rolled oranges in his free time for heaven's sake! And he was a ten year old. For all Anna knew, and believed, Yoh chose her feeling sorry for her. And to help her. Anna wouldn't have let him if he didn't had the fiancé excuse. Just like it would have been hard for her to make him train and do the chores without the fiancée excuse. Yoh baka lived to help people. Didn't throwing off his chance to become shaman king just to revive Ren proved that?
Anna sighed again, why was she thinking of all this now? It wasn't like everything would make her more determined. Tamao loved to cook, clean and every chore imaginable. Yoh loved to sleep all day, being lazy. Tamao always kept apologizing for every little thing that would surely drive any other guy insane. Yoh had proved his patience and easy-going attitude by withstanding Anna's harsh insults and violent nature. He could definitely stand Tamao's apology every five second. She didn't know anyone but Yoh who would be anything but annoyed at that. Well maybe the blue haired Aino idiot. But then he was an idiot. And he ate a lot. And he had insulted the outfit she had made for Yoh. And would drive poor Tamao insane. Anna would kill the Ainu idiot if he so much as looked at the pink haired prophetess. For all she knew if they ever got together he would spend the rest of his life ordering her about, making him dinner endlessly while he lived on the couch pretending to hear Tamao apologizing for god knows what reasons and did whatever she was told. Anna liked Tamao enough to not let that happen. And this was YOH and Tamao they were talking about.
Unfortunately Yoh had another opinion. He had proved that much the other day. But Yoh didn't need to know. He would figure out by himself eventually. And then one day even be grateful. This WAS the first time Anna was doing anything...ok so maybe not the first time. She still remembered the long hours she had spent searching for baka Yoh's favorite meal. And then there were several events after. But Yoh never knew about them.
She needed to quickly break the engagement and disappear into thin air. If Yoh found out she was breaking the engagement, he would insist on still being engaged with her. Not because he loved her. But because he would feel he owed it to her. Anna had done so much for him. Trained him to be ten times stronger than he had ever been, constantly believing in him, making him promise an easy life for her and strengthen his determination to win. Followed him to the other side of the planet just to make sure he became stronger and lived. And he had lived. And more. He had gained the title of the Shaman King. And because of that, he would marry her. Because he owed it to her. Which he would mistake for love. The fact that he would finally realize existed when their kids are running off marrying the ones they love. And then he would blame her. And Anna had had enough of blaming to last her a life time. Especially since the Asakura elders seemed to be leaning more towards Tamao now as well.
Anna didn't know what changed their opinions. Compassion for their grandson? Finally realizing how Anna would make him miserable? Wanting him to have a better life in exchange of a strong bloodline? There were thousands of reasons.
That morning she had a call from Kino to make reservations and come back to her as soon as possible. She only needed a few words to know they intended to end the engagement. She knew Anna couldn't and wouldn't disobey her.
All she had to do was tell Yoh that Tamao was really his fiancée. Put the idea of Tamao as his fiancee in his head and tell him for her part she was going to be trained further by the best itako in the country. Then have Kino back it up.
At that time Yoh had entered the kitchen. So Anna, lost for words, promptly handed him the reciever.
-FLASH BACK-
Yoh was half frowning and half smiling on the phone. His smile faltered every minute.
"Tamao..? Grandma don't joke like that..."
Anna felt a lump forming in her throat as she looked away. Why did she care anyway? She had played her part and it was over with. She would no longer have to deal with the slacker. Sure she loved him. Loved him more than she could handle. But that was the deal. She couldn't back out NOW. He thought he loved her. It wasn't true. She had always known that and yet had taken advantage of it. When they had first kiss the last night Yoh spent at En, Anna had only done so-so he could work harder. Be more determined to come back. To her. Because Yoh had a big heart. He would never hurt anyone. Especially her. Because he had made a promise to her, to Matamune, to Kino. A promise that he would always take care of her (to Kino), protect her (To Matamune), and save her (To her, Anna). Give her an easy life after he became the Shaman King and marry her. Make her his Shaman Queen, the first lady of the Shaman World. And a samurai never backs out of his promise. He had said so himself when Hao had wanted him to join the Shaman tournament again.
That time she had let him kiss her when she brought back his oracle bell. It was only to make him more confident. After all, if he could kiss the cold Itako without getting killed, he could face the X-Laws.
But just now when he kissed her...she made a mistake. And she needed to pay for that. Kino would tell him. That she, Anna, was pretending to be his fiancée. Pretending to care about him, like him so he would be able to gain his title. Just as her message had said. This way Yoh wouldn't feel guilty. And he would let her go.
Who was she kidding...? They would never be friends again.
"I see." Yoh said not smiling anymore. Yet not frowning either. Automatically he grabbed Anna's wrist as she started making her way up to her room.
He continued listening in grim silence as Kino gave him details about Anna's flight, pretending not to notice Anna's warning glare. As Anna had been promised, the Asakuras had arranged a famous Itako to take her under her wing. Teach her to be the best she could be and take care of her until she was old and capable enough to live on her own. Unconsciously and to Anna's dismay, he started tracing circles on Anna's wrist, still staring at the wall as he waited for his grandmother to finish talking. He knew better than to interrupt her.
Meanwhile Anna had started trying to free her arm. Yoh was starting to be immune to her slaps and scowls. What could the Itako do?! Yoh's grip only tightened in response.
"Iie."
Anna's eyes widened in panic, as Kino grew silent on the other line.
Yoh smiled, "Gomen Grandma I can't let Anna leave."
As though to add more to Anna's dismay, Yoh cut his grandmother off while she was speaking. Tossing off the cordless on the sofa.
Anna couldn't tear her eyes off the cordless when Yoh turned to her. The two stood in awkward silence for a while. Yoh staring at her impassively while Anna continued to avoid his gaze, staring at the phone as though expecting it to sprout lips and start shouting at her stupidity. Of course Yoh would say that. He thought she wanted to marry him! And after all she had done for him that was expected. Not like she DIDN'T but that was entirely out of the topic. Yoh being Yoh, would give up getting a chance to marry the person he loved just to pay her back
-END FLASHBACK-
But every body else could tell
That I confused my feelings with the truth
When there was me and you
Anna locked her compartment door before making her way to her seat. She had the whole compartment booked to her self. Yoh didn't know she had arranged it with Kino. Which was good. Very good.
I thought I knew the melody
That I heard you singing
And when you smiled you made me feel
Like I could sing along
Anna leaned back, glancing out the window before drawing the curtains close. It was like he hadn't heard a thing she had been saying! And now, knowing Yoh, he would be expecting her to do something like that. She was half surprised he hadn't been standing on the train, ready to stop her. But then he must have figured she would wait. Ready to run away the moment he let his guard down. And since Amidamaru had been with her, she wouldn't right then. But she knew that it was only a matter of time before he realized.
Clutching her fingers tightly, Anna closed her eyes. Things hadn't been the same between them ever since that night. Not the one where she went insane. But before. When Yoh had to leave for Amarica.
But then you went and changed the words
Now my heart is empty
I'm only left with used to bes.
And once upon a song
FLASH BACK
"Can I sleep with you tonight...?" she asked softly, feeling the last ounce of her strength slipping away as she looked at the sliding door.
Once, long ago, they had shared the same indisputable yet concealed feeling for each other in Aomori. Speaking clearly was too awkward. And this had always been comfortable. Now she had stepped just a bit closer to make her feelings more clear. Just a step closer to weaken the shield both held against each other wordlessly. One touch to crack that glass wall, waiting for him to respond. To open his eyes and look at her. Recognize her.
If anyone would ask if she loved him, her answer would be an obvious and confident yes. No hesitance. The three words were just words. Yoh on the other hand would avoid it. Wave it off with a carefree laugh or change of subject. Or just blush in embarrassment, slamming his head on the nearest object to conceal the expression evident in his eyes. Many people saw it as one sided at first glance. Yoh didn't do anything to discourage that opinion. But she never gave another thought on that. She knew him enough and didn't need assurance. She wasn't that weak. She'll never will be. But she needed him to help break the glass that night. Just a little. Just for that night. Because it could be the last they would spend with eachother.
What would happen in the Shaman Tournament was as unpredictable as it was inevitable. Despite her strong belief that he would be the Shaman King, that he would come back to her victorious, it could still be a long time, maybe years or forever, till she saw him again. He would never change. Yoh will always be Yoh. She believed that as strongly as she believed in his victory. But would he still remember her? He forgot about the shaman tournament and their dream so easily when she had met him again in the hospital. Back at the park, he had said he wouldn't. He had promised he would come back victorious and give her the easy life he had promised her. The sheild had still held its force between them. Like always, they hadn't complained. But for once, even though she was grateful for it, she had never felt more lonely. Until that moment. As she waited for him to answer her.
He wouldn't say no, she knew that. But he could stay silent and ignore her. Like always. Maintaining that shield. Firmly ignoring her request. And she would have to oblige without question. She would understand. He had been avoiding her. And she couldn't blame him. They both always hated things being complicated. It felt unnecessary. Ignoring each other and getting past the night would have been easier for him. Not for her. He would be occupied fighting, knowing she was safe at home. She would spend sleepless nights tossing and turning in her bed, not even knowing if he was hurt. She didn't want to mark that night as the beginning of several others. Not when he was there. But it still depended on him.
END FLASHBACK
Anna laughed to herself quietly. She couldn't believe how stupid she was just a few years ago. The signs were so apparent. Yet she still thought she saw through them.
FLASHBACK
"Can I sleep with you tonight...?"
Yoh exhaled evenly, looking at nothing in particular. Goldva had said everything would change in the opening ceremony. He could never figure out how to tell her that. So he had avoided the topic. Just like he had been trying to avoid it then. By coming home silently late, knowing she had been waiting, hoping she would have already gone to bed. This was exactly what he wanted to avoid. It tasted too bitter. He preferred an easy life. Without any complications. He preferred the shield the two had set between them ever since she first read his thoughts on his feelings when they were ten. When she had slapped him and ran out of the room. Two sliding doors keeping them apart. Just like tonight. He was grateful they were between them then. And how they always had been, in some way, unconsciously, ever since then. It would have been so easy to keep it that way. Knowing she was on the other side, that he wouldn't have to open the doors to her. Because it was easier. Behind those doors. He wanted them closed. It felt more peaceful. Like the calm before the storm. It had been much easier.
She had closed them between them last time. They had never touched them since. The shield had stayed. Now she will open them again. Because he could never refuse her. Especially not tonight. He should have known ignoring the changes wouldn't stop them from occuring. And if he didn't succumb to it and face it, things always got more complicated.
Earlier that day if she had asked him, he would have pretended not to hear it, shocked as much as he might have been. Through out the day he had an almost desperate instinct not to face her. In school he hadn't looked at her when he told her he was going to spend time with his friend. He should have known she wouldn't realise it would be hard. But then that moment, he wanted to see her. It could be the last time. It could be the last.
"Yes."
Anna closed her eyes feeling her strength give way. Her hand trembled as it touched the wooden frame of the door, pushing it gently and as slowly as possible, aside.
The glass creaked as several silver scars cascaded down its smooth form.
END FLASHBACK
Anna opened her eyes, feeling her heart beating faster. She took a deep shuddering breath, hugging herself. 'Please let the train move already..!'
Now I know you're not a fairy tale
And dreams were meant for sleeping
And wishes on a star
Just don't come true
FLASHBACK
"You really didn't have to do this..." Yoh said weakly, eye twitching.
"Your grandmother ordered it."
"BUT THIS LOOKS LIKE SOMETHING I WORE WHEN I WAS 8!" Yoh yelled clutching the clothes.
"Hahaha, what kind of thing is this?" Manta laughed, pointing.
Anna raised her eyebrow, "Are you saying you don't like my hand sewn outfit?"
Yoh and Manta froze. She MADE it?!
"I LOVE IT! Thanks for the battle costume, nothing is more important!" Yoh exclaimed striking a pose.
"IT'S SO CUTE!!" Manta agreed heart eyed.
Anna felt a vain popping on her head, "You two can't act."
END FLASHBACK
And now
Even I can tell
That I confused my feelings
With the truth
Coz I liked the view...
When there was me and you
Anna ran her fingers across her hair, feeling her head starting to ache. Did she HAD to get THAT particularly stupid song stuck on her head?! Why couldn't it be the apple song? Anna loved the apple song. It was way much better. How did it go? Its not because I like you. I really hate you.
I can't believe that I could be so blind
Its like you were floating
While I was falling
And I didn't mind
Anna gritted her teeth, silently making a vow to kill Venessa Hueston for singing that song. Why did they had to air it anyway? It just made her jaw clench and ache. It was ridiculous and stupid. And she didn't want to remember it.
FLASHBACK
"Ne Anna, when I come back, let's eat something together."
END FLASHBACK
Anna's eyes narrowed as she stared at the table in front of her. This was the last thing she wanted to think about. But for some reason, no matter how hard she tried the memories kept coming forcefully all the same. Why did she even bother to expect things to be easier? At least she was alone now.
Because I liked the view
I thought you felt it too
When there was me
And you
Anna sighed closing her eyes. The train finally gave out its final whistle. Alerting the passenger to bid a quick farewell to their families and loved ones. It was time to go.
Her heart constricted as she glanced at the curtains concealing the window. It was like a cold fist had wrapped its numb fingers around her heart. He hadn't came. She would be able to get away.
Her heart ached with every beat. She didn't know if it was because she was glad he hadn't found her. Or because along with him, she was leaving a lot of people she had came to accept as friends. Especially Manta and Tamao. Who had accompanied her all the time. Kept her from feeling lonely after Yoh left. She would miss them. And she hated admitting that. She knew they wouldn't miss her.
A small leaf shikigami slowly emerged in front of her, staring at her. Wiping away the trail of tears she didn't even realize were streaming down her eyes, she considered the shikigami. Yohmei must have sent it to alert her if Yoh came. The train had picked up speed as the shikigami settled down on her shoulder, giving her a strange sense of comfort. Anna returned her gaze to the emerald blinds. Her heart was still beating in anticipation. What if Yoh found her? What if she couldn't get away? She sat frozen, too afraid to peak out of the curtains. Maybe if she sat still and quiet enough, it would be easier...
FLASHBACK
"You're late."
"Yeah...I couldn't decide what to get."
Anna looked at him, hiding her curiosity. 'Didn't Bob's new cd come out today?'
Yoh turned to her, grinning sheepishly, "I bought this instead." he said holding out a cd with a familiar cover, reading her thoughts, "Its the apple song you like so much isn't it? I heard you humming it."
FLASHBACK
"So do you want to tell me what's wrong, or do I have to guess?" Yoh asked casually, staring ahead at the lake.
"...I guess I'm just afraid we'll grow apart."
FLASHBACK
Yoh looked at her silently as Anna rubbed her hands, blowing at them to keep them warm. Wordlessly, he held out a can of hot chocolate. Anna looked at it silently before accepting it.
Yoh sat down beside her, "I admit the shaman tournament will bring about a lot of changes. But even if it takes years, we'll always be friends. Ok?"
"...If you say so."
FLASHBACK
"Yoh..."
"Hmm..?" Yoh asked looking up from his family hair loom Anna just handed him, and smiled, "Ah...you don't have to say it."
Anna looked at him impassively.
Yoh grinned, "I'm glad you came, you look well."
Anna paused, biting back a small smile, "You too." she said shortly. What else was there to say?
Yoh laughed.
FLASHBACK
"Ah...that's right."
Anna quirked an eyebrow as Yoh approached her. The oracle bell still lying before her feet.
"You did me a great favor by bringing me my oracle bell..." Yoh said, smiling warmly, "I need to thank you Anna..."
FLASHBACK
"Anna! Run! I'll hold him off! Go get grandmother and matamune!"
Anna stood still, watching Yoh in shock. Why wasn't he running away..?
FLASHBACK
"Where is Anna?!"
"Umm...I don't know..."
"WHAT?!"
"Hey take it easy...I don't know where she is." Oh-Oni replied, waving his hands for peace.
"Explain..." Yoh growled, glaring at the Oni murderously.
The Oh-Oni gulped, drawing back.
FLASHBACK
"Stop it Anna! You'll die in those clothes!"
"SHUTUP!" Anna shouted throwing more stones at them as the Oni laughed in delight behind her.
FLASHBACK
"I understand..." Yoh whispered, gritting his teeth as trails of tears ran furiously down his eyes.
Anna started looking at him in surprise.
"GOODBYE MATAMUNE!"
FLASHBACK
"You're covered in blood...are you alright Anna...?"
FLASHBACK
"Since it is so, you should be giving up now right? Only bad things will happen if you continue to stay here. So you should quickly-"
"I'm not going anywhere." Yoh interrupted shortly.
FLASHBACK
"Your carefree senses have nothing to do with me. Because I hate everyone. So I don't wish to have any relations with anyone. And you still want to build up a relationship?! WHY?!" she shouted, startling Yoh alert.
"Erm...Why? Ah..." Yoh asked weakly, not daring to look at her as his face turned an interesting shade of red.
Anna's heart stopped dead as Yoh's thoughts started streaming down her brain before she could stop them.
"Actually...it must be really hard to understand other's feelings..." Yoh murmured with a sigh, still blushing furiously, momentarily forgetting she could read thoughts.
Feeling her cheeks growing warm, she felt her mouth hanging open.
"How disturbing!"
FLASHBACK
Yoh smiled, "I think-you would like to settle that power of yours, right?"
Anna bit her lips, narrowing her eyes to try and find an argument against it, "But...I..."
"There'll be a way." Yoh stated firmly, "If you really can't stand being in crowds, and accidentally call upon an oni, then lets run away together. Even if prayers can not tame that power of yours, in the end it doesn't matter."
Anna started, looking over her shoulder. What was he talking about?
Yoh smiled, "If that happens, then just wait until I become Shaman King, then I'll do something about it."
Anna stared out in darkness, listening quietly as tears started cascading down her eyes.
"When that day comes, I will become the shaman king, and save you."
FLASHBACK
"I want to go and welcome the arrival of the new year," Yoh said looking straight at the sliding door, "you had better not fall asleep ok?"
He smiled, "I'll wait for you."
END FLASHBACK
Anna sighed. Technically, he wasn't breaking his promise. She was relieving it off him. In time he would understand why they had to do what they were doing. Her and his family. It was for his and everyone else's own good. He would understand that.
FLASHBACK
Anna placed the mug full of hot chocolate in front of Yoh with a sharp thud, jerking him out of whatever he was thinking about.
"Drink." she ordered before grabbing a blanket and tying it securely around him. Yoh stared at the cup of hot chocolate silently before swallowing a nervous lump in his throat.
"Ah...Anna..? I can't exactly...move..." he admitted weakly, not daring to look at her.
"Shut up." Anna snapped, "Unless you want the drink all over yourself."
Yoh bit down his lips as Anna quickly wrapped a towel around his head before, to his shock, taking the mug and holding it inches away from his lips. He stared at her in surprise.
But Anna didn't seem to notice his reaction, lost in her own thoughts, as she neared the mug to his lips. Suddenly he couldn't help but smile, looking at her warmly. Unfortunately that was probably a bad idea.
END FLASHBACK
Anna smiled, recalling the night before. If she hadn't been in such a hectic state, she would have found her actions almost funny.
FLASHBACK
"What are you staring at? Drink it already!" she snapped, her eyes flashing dangerously.
Yoh jumped before quickly compiling to her wishes. Gulping down the warm liquid quickly while fighting a stupid grin on his lips from being too apparent.
But before long, that bubble of happiness and delight in him burst to horror.
"AN-ANNA!!" He yelped as the steaming hot liquid trailed down his chin. There was only so much he could swallow! Especially when the thing to be swallowed was THAT hot.
He watched Anna's eyes snap from being misty and clouded back to attention. Pulling away she glared at him, "You would get that again the next time you stay in the storm that long."
Yoh winced, "Yes Anna…"
END FLASHBACK
Anna frowned. All those flashbacks were starting to annoy her now.
FLASHBACK
Yoh was sitting on his futon, looking at her. He wasn't smiling. But his eyes were just as bright as her's. Looking at her wordlessly, as she drew near kneeling before him.
It was then her lips had trembled. Just slightly, barely noticeable to anyone but her. He had smiled pulling the blankets over her as they laid down. His hand reached for her cheek, carrassing it lightly. She closed her eyes at his touch, leaning towards him as he wrapped his other arm around her, pulling her close.
The glass cracked in protest as he ran his finger up her cheek, pushing the blond strands away from her face. How long will it be till he sees her again? He should have known he needn't tell her everything would change. Maybe she knew that before he did. He should have known he can't avoid Anna Kyouyama. Not because he couldn't. Or because it was foolish to try. But because...
Anna opened her eyes and looked at him in question. He leaned forward, placing his lips over her's in reply. He will miss her.
The glass shattered and fell. Both of them, for once, didn't care.
END FLASHBACK
Anna shook her head, blocking away the rest of the memory. First the memories, and now she was fantasizing on how Yoh must have been thinking that night. Could she get anymore pathetic?
FLASHBACK
Anna placed the cup on the table, wiping his chin with her bandanna. He felt his face growing warm. She was so close...and she didn't smell that bad. AND she was wiping his chin...with her bandanna. Suddenly, thinking straight became a very difficult task.
Yoh's head started whirling in daze as Anna pulled back as though it was natural for her to touch his lips and chin with her bandanna.
He watched her get up and move behind him, massaging his head with the towel.
"Now hold still." she ordered. He bit back a smile and compiled. If he got this treatment every time he came home soaking wet from rain, he'd make sure it rained everyday. Being the shaman king, he could easily arrange that. He moved his shoulders a bit, feeling them straining then stiffened. The blanket was coming undone. And Anna's vigorous massage was not helping.
He heard her sigh and reach out for the end about to slip away. Her skin brushed against his neck and he froze. Time seemed to have slowed down as her cool, refreshingly soft hand stayed still against his skin. Electricity shot through him, making his heart skip several beats. He felt an overwhelming vertiginous feeling as he tried to shake himself back to reality. At that moment, Anna took her hand away. He sighed inaudibly.
END FLASHBACK
Anna's eyes widened as she snapped back to reality. Wh-where did that come from? How did she-his feelings-
FLASHBACK
Matamune gritted his teeth as the Oh-Oni walked towards the Mount Osore, clutching Anna in his grip.
"This is bad…If he continued to get stronger, Anna's furiyoku would run out."
Yoh's eyes widened as he looked at Matamune, "But…that"
"If that happened, Anna would die."
Yoh stared at Matamune in horror, before whipping his head back towards the retreating Oh Oni. Anna had fainted in his grip. Yoh's heart stopped.
"NOOOOOOO!!"
Matamune started as Yoh started dashing after the Oh Oni, "YOH!"
END FLASHBACK
She froze as it finally dawned into her what was going on. She wasn't just fantasizing what Yoh felt. She was experiencing his memories.
He was there. He had caught up. She wasn't just remembering everything.
"Yeah...I wanted you to understand."
Anna didn't dare look up, tightening her arms around her as he wandered in. When had it gotten so cold?
Silently, he sat opposite her, not making any move closer. Looking at her sadly.
"We had been through a lot huh...?"
Anna refused to reply, averting her eyes to the blinds, pushing them apart. The train was still moving.
There was a moment of silence as the two sat opposite each other. Anna averting her eyes and staring firmly out the window. And Yoh staring at Anna quietly.
Finally Anna sighed, "Who told you?" she asked hoarsely, still looking out the window.
"Manta. He caught sight of you running away." Yoh smiled, "Times like these, his height proves to be quite useful."
Anna narrowed her eyes, ignoring the shikigami looking at her atop her shoulders. And they said these spirits were supposed to be useful.
Yoh watched her silently, "I don't want to force you to stay."
Anna's eyes softened as they started itching dangerously, "...I know."
"But I really want you to..." Yoh said softly, standing up and looking at her silently.
Anna turned her gaze on him, "who are you trying to kid."
"No one." Yoh replied calmly.
Anna narrowed her eyes. But before she could say anything, Yoh continued.
"Time and time again, I cheated death. After parting at Aomori, we met again just two years later. I survived Yohmei's cave, every battle, your oni. Just like you've been fighting off the demons from coming again. Just like you survived fighting Hao, capturing his shikigamis, defeating hana-gumi." He paused for a minute, before taking a deep breath, continuing again. Only this time fixing his eyes on the space beside Anna, "I met Oh-Oni in hell. He has changed. He asked me to take care of you." Yoh's eyes softened, "In the beginning, you had asked me to break the engagement, I didn't wanted to then..." Yoh's eyes hardened as he looked at Anna firmly, "I don't want to."
Anna looked down at her hands on her laps impassively, refusing to say anything.
"People are surprised to know you're my fiancée. Especially when they know I like nothing better than being lazy and sleeping all day, letting things be as it is, while you like ordering people around and killing them if needed be. Always having your way." Yoh smiled, "We've been engaged for five years now. And throughout all that time, we only protested once."
FLASHBACK
"Hmph. And to think someone like you will be my future husband."
FLASH
"Why did my grandparents had to choose Anna as my fiancée?!"
END FLASHBACK
Yoh watched silently as Anna's eyes softened. A hint of a smile apparent on her lips.
"From what's apparent, if fate really can't be changed. We're stuck together." Yoh said walking near his fiancée calmly, sitting down next to her, "everything will work out, alright?"
Anna looked up to find a small four leafed clover in front of her.
FLASHBACK
"Hey Anna! Look, this is amazing! A clover with four leaves!" Yoh called excited, pointing at a pile of clovers.
"Its always the same with you!!" Anna shouted, irritated. Here she was serious about crossing the ocean and all he could do was find a bunch of stupid clovers interesting.
"Don't you know the myth? When you find a four leaf clover, Kaa-chan told me something good will happen." Yoh laughed grinning his trademark grin, "I must be lucky."
"...you disgust me. Lets go to the shop and come back."
Yoh laughed, looking at Anna a she turned away from him, "I am lucky."
END FLASHBACK
Anna smiled, taking the clover from Yoh and looking at it intently. Yoh leaned forward a bit, looking at her affectionately as she bowed her head slightly, hiding her face behind her bangs.
"How did you find me?"
"I had the shikigamis lose in the train station, Manta said there were no flights leaving for Aaomori until tomorrow morning so..."
Anna sighed, "This is your's..?" she asked tiredly, not bothering to point at the shikigami sitting on her shoulder.
Yoh looked at Anna, turning serious, "yeah..."
"Then you had been spying for quite sometime." Anna said shortly, closing her eyes, "watching me make a spectacle of myself."
Yoh sighed, "I'm sorry"
Anna turned to him quietly.
"I should have showed myself…"
"I don't need you to be here." Anna said.
Yoh smiled
Anna glared, "I mean it."
"Ok"
"You can take the shikigami back."
"Fine." Yoh said calmly, just as the shikigami disappeared.
"I don't need comforting."
"Alright." Yoh said, yawning slightly.
Anna glared, "Don't expect me to be someone who needs taking care of."
"I wont." Yoh assured, grinning a bit too innocently for Anna's taste.
With a distaste scoff, Anna turned her attention back to the window.
"Yoh?"
"Hmm?"
"If you ever regret the day you married me, don't blame me over it." Anna said, staring straight ahead.
"Ah...ok."
"I'm not going to change, and I'm not going to be anything near how Tamao is." Anna continued, closing her eyes.
Yoh smiled, "Alright"
"And I won't have my husband prancing about with other women." Anna continued darkly, glaring at Yoh from the corner of her eyes,
"Hai-EH?!" Yoh blinked, suddenly wide eyed.
"Are you chasing one now?" Anna interrupted, looking at him straight in the eyes.
"Wha-?" Yoh spluttered, staring at Anna speechless.
"Do I have to repeat myself?" Anna snapped quietly glowering at Yoh.
"I'm not-!"
"The pink slip."
Yoh blinked, "Slip?"
"Yes."
"What pink slip?"
"The love letters!"
"What love letters?" Yoh asked, alarmed. If he had been getting love letters he didn't even know about he was in not so little trouble. Last time Anna had went ballistic just by Silver's pager.
"The little pink love letters Tamao has been slipping to you Yoh. Hand them over." Anna commanded, stretching out her hand.
Oh.
Trying to not sigh out loud, Yoh reached in his pocket and handed Anna the small pink slip without another word.
With a final glare, Anna glanced down at the little note.
"Arigato gozaimasu Yoh-san. Now I just have to make sure Yohmei-sama keeps Konchi and Ponchi under his control long enough for me to get some time alone with him. I'll be gone for the day or two to leave them with Yohmei-sensei. I left you and Anna-san your dinner in the fridge so you need only to heat it up. Arigato."
Anna stared at the note as Yoh cleared his throat, "I was helping Tamao confess to Horo Horo. Every time she tried out loud, she would either faint or run away. Konchi and Ponchi didn't help and when I decided to give up, Tamao insisted she would work harder. So I asked her to communicate with me through these little notes. She would write everything she wanted to say, and I would reply out loud."
"And..." Yoh continued closing his eyes, "don't get mad but...Konchi and Ponchi had drawn the same conclusion you did...so...when you talked to grandmother...you were really talking to..."
"The fox and the weasel..." Anna finished, closing her eyes as her hand smashed the note in her fist.
"Ah...I thought he was a raccoon...but Tamao has punished them a lot already though!" Yoh added quickly. It wasn't like he was pleased with the two spirits, but really...Tamao had been aggressive...he wondered if that was due to Anna's influence...
"How many people know of this?"
"Um...aside from me and Tamao...and konchi and ponchi?"
Anna glared at him darkly.
"No one! Honest!"
"What about Amidamaru and Manta?"
"They don't know, they're still confused about everything."
Anna eyed him before turning back to the window.
Yoh watched her silently, "So..."
"If you fall in love, I'll kill you."
Yoh blinked then smiled, "Anna…"
Anna narrowed her eyes, "Urusai. And I'm not wasting the money spent for this."
"...you would have to buy another ticket to return." Yoh pointed out, still smiling.
Anna scowled, eye twitching, "They would regret the day they did this..."
Yoh laughed sheepishly, feeling sorry for the two spirits.
"But...I guess since they were looking out for her..." Anna continued softly, still gazing out.
Yoh blinked, looking at Anna in surprise.
"Even though they're idiots...it must be nice to have friends like that."
Yoh looked at his fiancée quietly, not knowing what to say.
"They will still be working under me for the rest of their existence." Anna promised glowering dangerously.
Yoh smiled uneasily "yeah...they'd be expecting that...but really...Tamao had been aggressive"
"How do you know?"
"Horo Horo was terrified." Yoh replied simply, "I left the others to calm him down"
Anna smiled coldly, but didn't say anything. Yoh decided to let it pass. There was a moment of silence, only broken from time to time by the sound of the train speeding towards the next station. The two sat silently, waiting for the next stop.
All of a sudden, Anna snapped, "Don't think you'll get out of this easily."
"Ha-Wha?!"
"Because of your idiocity not only did I had to waste MY money, but also made a complete fool out of myself!"
"A-Anna..."
"Urusai!"
Yoh compiled.
"When we get home I'm increasing your training by ten folds."
"WHAT?!"
"Shutup!" Anna snapped, feeling a large vain popping on her forehead as the circumstances she had gotten herself into finally began to sink in, "Its your own fault for not telling me!"
"But Tamao asked me to-"
"Urusai!"
"Anna-"
"250 LAPS AROUND THE NEIGHBOURHOOD!"
"WHAT!"
"360!"
"BUT"
"You want me to increase them!"
"Annnaaaa"
"400!"
And so this is how it is people. The love beteen the shaman king and his queen is unlike any other. Some find it too different to accept it. Others find it refreshing. But the point still remains, there is always more to things than what meets the-
"What did she do to those spirits anyway?"
Yoh grinned sheepihsly, "Well...lets just say you're not gonna be the only the they'll fear anymore..."
At that, Anna's eyes blazed.
"Ofcourse they'll fear you more!" Yoh corrected himseld quickly.
"Hmph...I'll make sure of that..." Anna muttered, glaring darkly out the window.
Yoh smiled, "Anna..."
"Hmm..?" Anna asked, not bothering to look at his direction.
"No matter what happens..." Anna looked up as Yoh took her hand in his, squeezing it slightly, "Don't...do this ever again."
For a moment, Anna could only look at her fiance. Sitting before her without a hint of a smile in his eyes. Finally, she allowed herself to smile slightly, giving a bearly noticeable nod.
Yoh grinned before pulling her towards himself. The train shrilled loudly as it neared the station, warning the pessengers as it started slowing down. The platform grew closer and the pessengers started getting up from their seats. But neither the shaman king, nor his queen took notice.
NG: CHEESY!! I know. Get over it. I felt like writing cheesy. ANYWAY...
FINALLY!! I have been trying to complete this for SO long! I hope it was worth it. I liked it! PLEASE REVIEW! And yes I wrote Anna dying fic (everlasting) after this. But I completed this one later. And the sleeping incident one mentioned in both Everlasting and this is another fic I had been working on when I was thinking about connecting Need, this sequal, Everlasting and that all in one story. But I dropped that idea and that fic. ANYWAY I hope you enjoyed it!