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oOo

"Good morning Detective Kimura." The policewoman greeted him, rising from her desk. "I have an incident report Detective Otaki wanted you to look at."

"Is this about the attempt on Miss Aoyama's life?" The man asked as he took the folder from her.

"Yes sir." She said handing him another folder. "He also asked me to give you this. It's Kosuke Mugen's statement. He was in the process of taking it when the assassination attempt took place."

Glancing over the report, his eyes widened. A smile spread across his face as looked at the woman and said. "Those girls from the Kisuragi High baseball team are something else. She was a patient, and still took the assailant down."

"This is besides the two who helped take down Toru Akimatsu and his gang." She replied with a nod. "They sound like formidable young women."

"You wouldn't know it talking with them." The detective declared. "They're all quite charming. Well, I better get to it. I have a busy day ahead of me." Crossing the room to his desk, he settled into his chair, and picked up the phone. Calling down to the holding cell, he waited only a few moments before they answered. "This is Kimura." He said brusquely. "I need Ichiro Kitayama brought to interrogation room three please." Hanging up the phone, he thought for a moment. "No, I don't want to involve him with this. We have our suspect. If I tell him, it will just escalate things." Rising, he approached the policewoman once more, asking. "Would you locate Officer Anatsuki and ask him to join me? I'll be downstairs in interrogation." At her consent, he thanked her and then left the room. "Just when you think things are finally over…" He mumbled to himself as he made his way to the elevator.

oOo

Seira wiped a tear from her eye as her laughter subsided. "What is he doing wearing that?"

"It's Halloween. You're supposed to dress up." Corey said with a chuckle. "You don't think he makes a good hooker?"

"Well, he does have the legs for the skirt." She replied with a critical eye. "He went a little overboard with the makeup though. And that wig, ugh, it's hideous."

"He runs cross-country. I don't think he has any fat on him at all." He said as he took another bite of rice. "He's about Amy's height, too."

"And there you are, dressed like a doctor." She said proudly. "Someday that won't be make-believe, will it?"

"If things go the way I'd like them to it won't." Turning up the volume, he listened a minute before he commented. "We were pretty tight that night. We got a good response from the crowd."

"I've heard worse." Seira agreed. "Hooker boy's got a good voice. He can play that guitar too."

"He does okay." He said setting his empty plate on the floor. "That was a great breakfast. Thanks for making it."

"You're welcome." She replied with a smile as she snuggled up to him. "Get used to it, because it's about all I know how to make."

"That's ok. I don't mind as long as I get to share it with you" He said warmly as he put his arm around her. They didn't say any more, but just sat quietly watching the video, enjoying the moment. They were about two-thirds of the way through it, when a hand on each of their shoulders startled them.

"Corey… Seira…Would you join us in the living room?" Kimiko said somberly before straightening, turning around, and heading back down the hallway.

Looking at each other, they quickly got to their feet. Turning off the video, Corey said. "This is it, Seira. Are you worried?"

"No, I'm not worried." She answered, clutching his arm. "Because no matter what they say, I'm not letting you go."

"We'll just need to plead our case again if they do want to separate us." He said firmly. "Come on, let's get this over with."

They walked purposefully down the hall, their arms around each other's waist. Stepping into the room, they saw Masako and Reiko had taken seats in separate chairs, Kimiko had chosen to lean against the wall by the kitchen, and Yoshi was staring out the window into the back yard. Masako motioned to the couch, saying. "Sit down, you two."

Taking her hand, Corey led her over and sat down on the end towards his grandmother. He was surprised when Seira sat on his lap and gave her mother a defiant look.

Scowling, Reiko said. "Seira, please don't do that. I'm having enough trouble with this without you being hostile towards me."

"Seira, behave." Masako chided. "We understand your feelings, so please don't make this into a conflict."

"That's all she understands." The girl said insolently. "She's never wanted to listen to me before, why should this be any different?"

"Because she also understands how poorly she's treated you in the past." Kimiko said calmly. "Now get off Corey's lap, or we may just change our minds about you."

"Come on Seira." Corey entreated. "You were worried about your folks getting upset before, so don't make them mad now."

"All right." She muttered, sliding onto the middle cushion and crossing her arms. "Let's hear what you've got to say."

Reiko smiled weakly at her. "It's been a while Seira. You've become more grown up since I saw you last. Do you mind if I sit by you?" Receiving the girl's consent, she climbed out of her chair, and moved over to sit on the other side of her daughter. Maintaining a space between them, she continued. "I did read your letter, and it did affect me. We should have had this talk before I left. I'm sorry I made you feel unwanted. I never meant to hurt you like that. I was feeling trapped, like I was living a useless life. I was so blinded by my resentment towards you father, that I couldn't see how it was affecting you. You know, I had such grand dreams when I was your age. I was going to go places and make a name for myself. I was working as an intern at a prestigious ad firm here in Tokyo, when I met your father and fell head over heels in love with him. At first I didn't mind forsaking my dreams. I was with the man I loved, and knew he would take care of me. When you were born, and I held you in my arm for the first time, I was truly happy. Then the tedium of caring for a baby sowed the first seeds of resentment. I thought just a few years of this, and once Seira's in school, I can go back to work. Your father, however, didn't see things my way." In a deep voice, she mimed. "'There's no way my wife is going to work! How would it look if people thought that I couldn't provide for my family? Your job is to raise our daughter. Do I make myself clear?' Then he got promoted and started taking those business trips. I was left alone with a strong willed child for a week at a time. Let me tell you, the resentment towards him grew by leaps and bounds after that."

"Corey's not like that, Mom." Seira said in a surly tone. "He wants me to be able to support myself. You know, in case something happens to him. That was what we discussed the other day, Dad, not me going away with him."

"I'm sorry I jumped to conclusions Seira. I should have trusted you more." He replied turning away from the window. "I heard you friend mention Corey seeing you naked and I lost my sense of reason."

"Does everyone need to know about that?" Seira grumbled, trying to sink further down into the cushion. "I wish Izumi had never opened her big mouth."

"Accidents happen, Seira." Kimiko said with a reassuring smile. "So tell me, which one of you was more embarrassed?"

"I think it was a tie." Corey admitted, mortified that his mother had found out. "We both turned as red as our hair."

"I'm glad to hear that, Seira." Reiko said, laying a gentle hand on her daughter's leg. "When your father told me about this, I was afraid my words had led you to look for love promiscuously."

"You thought I was out there sleeping around? You don't know me at all, do you Mom? You have no idea of what I've gone through." She said, shoving her mother's hand away and standing up. "You talked about me finding a nice young Japanese man. Well let me tell you. I met a lot of young Japanese men those nights I spent on the streets, and most of them weren't very nice. All they were looking for was a piece of ass to tap, and I needed to fight off more than one of them. That's right. I needed to learn to fight to survive out there, but even that can only carry you so far. If the coach hadn't saved me that night, I'd probably be dead." She impudently placed her hands on her hips as she added. "I love him, Mom. I could look for the next ten years, and I wouldn't find a better guy than him. Why can't you understand that?"

"I understand that you think you love him." The woman said scornfully, standing and crossing her arms, looking disparagingly at the girl. "I just don't want you to be unhappy when he leaves. As for finding a nice Japanese man, I hardly think the ideal place is on the streets in the middle of the night. Your school has a corresponding boys' school, surely there must be someone there who would be interested in a beautiful girl like you."

"Ha!" Seira barked. "I'm the most despised student in that school, Mom. The girls barely acknowledge me, let alone the boys." Then in a mockingly haughty voice, she mimed. "'I don't have the proper background. I should never have been allowed to attend Kisuragi...' I got suspended for fighting because some spoiled princess rubbed salt in the wounds you made! Half of the Parents' Association wants to expel me because they feel I don't belong there either!" Then, her outburst over, she sadly said. "You've made light of everything I've accomplished in the past. Do you have to ruin my future too?"

"Seira, I think that's enough recriminations for today." Masako said standing up and stepping between the girl and her mother. Looking warmly into Seira's eyes, she gently cradled the girl's cheek as she added in a subdued voice. "Now, we're all going to take a deep breath and try and have a polite discussion. Sit back down child and let us help, all right?"

Nodding, Seira plopped heavily onto the sofa next to Corey. Reiko reclaimed the chair she'd been sitting in earlier.

"Well, now that Seira's made her feelings known, let's try to resolve this situation." Kimiko said, moving to the center of the room as her mother also sat back down. "Reiko, what you say may be true. There are surely nice young Japanese men out there. However, you're forgetting one thing. It isn't just Seira's feelings at stake here. Corey is in love with her as well. What do you propose that he do?"

Looking critically at the young man, she sniffed. "He should just forget about her and go back to where he belongs."

"You told us earlier you were so in love with your ex-husband at the time, you were willing to abandon your dreams." Masako said calmly. "Do you think these two can forget about each other so easily? I believe they would be even more miserable if they were forced apart."

"And for the record, how many of those Japanese men would be willing to let Seira have a career like Corey wants for her?" Kimiko pressed, walking over and sitting next to Seira. Taking her hand, she continued. "I think she'd end up in the same situation you were in. Do you really want that for her?"

"Why are you both fighting so strongly for this?" Reiko pressed. "They live half a world apart. How can this work?"

"Love can endure distance if those involved are committed." Seira said quietly. "That's what Corey's grandfather told me, and I believe it. Mom, let us try. It may not work, but at least give us the chance to find out."

"I'm willing, Seira." Yoshi said crossing to the couch and putting a hand on her shoulder. "Give it a try. You have my support."

"Yoshi…" Reiko said dumbstruck. Looking at the two of them sitting next to each other, she scowled. "All right, I give in. I know when I've lost a battle." Standing, she said disdainfully. "I think you could do better, but if you're heart is set on him, then so be it. Just don't come running to me when you're miserable missing him."

"Thanks Mom!" Seira cried, quickly standing and crossing the room. "We'll make it, you'll see." Her mother's eyes opened wide in surprise as the girl wrapped her in a hug. "God, I've missed you." She said softly as she laid her head on the woman's shoulder.

Reiko's face was confused as she awkwardly returned the embrace. "You did?" She said taken aback. "Even after all the heartache I've caused you?"

"Of course she did." Masako said warmly as she walked by and patted the woman's arm. "You're her mother."

oOo

"Just a little bit more to go, and we'll be done Yuki." Keiichi said reassuringly as he pushed, stretching the muscles in the back of her thigh. "You don't want to cramp up when we get down to the therapy room tomorrow."

"Are you sure I'll be ready for that?" She questioned. "I can't even move my whole leg yet."

Lowering her leg, he smiled at her as he replied. "By this time tomorrow, I'm confident you'll have limited movement in your entire lower body. Your spinal cord is recovering from its trauma, so it's just a matter of time. You'll still be weak, but you should be able to stand. We'll get you on the parallel bars and you can try taking some steps."

"Have you decided where you're going to take me?" She boldly asked.

"Thinking about our date, are you?" He replied grinning. "No, I haven't decided. What's your favorite food?"

"I like beef bowls." She suggested brightly. "Would that be all right?"

"Yuki, you need to think grander." He said, shaking his head. "I want this to be a celebration! You've been spared having to spend the rest of your life in a wheelchair. A beef bowl is hardly an adequate restaurant. If you want beef, I think I know just the place."

"Um, my teammates are concerned about me going on a date with someone so much older, and two of them want to come along with their boyfriends. Would you be offended?" She asked nervously. "I think I'd be more comfortable if they were there."

"Which girls want to come?" He asked with a chuckle. "I hope one is the redhead that plays second. I'd be the envy of Tokyo with two such beautiful girls dining with me."

"No, it wasn't her." Yuki answered, feeling a little pang of jealousy. "One is Hikaru. She plays first."

"Is she the one in pigtails?" He said brightly. "She's cute too. If it's what you want, they're welcome to come along. The place I have in mind is pretty pricey though."

"I'll let them know. Maybe Hiroki can help pay their bill." She responded. "He's the boyfriend of Ryo our pitcher. She's the other one I'd like to bring along. The three of us were the first girls recruited to play for Kisuragi. I'd like to thank them for their friendship."

"You know, the more I hear from you, the more I like you, Yuki." He said with a warm smile. "Go ahead and invite your friends. I'll make reservations for six for next Saturday. You should be fully recovered from your paralysis by then. Is that acceptable?"

"That's very acceptable. Thank you Mr. Yamato!" She said warmly.

He raised the head of her bed as he replied with a mischievous twinkle in his eye. "By the way, seeing as we're going on a date, you really don't need to be so formal. Call me Keiichi. Okay? I'll see you tomorrow."

"Okay! Have a good day, Keiichi!" She called as he moved towards the doorway. "I'll keep working on moving my legs!"

He stopped and looked back at her. "That's fine, just don't wear yourself out. Get some rest too." Then he gave her a smile, and was gone.

oOo

Ryo ran up the steps into the school. Once inside, however; a stern look from Mr. Kodanuke made her slow her pace. "Running late again, Miss Hayakawa?" He said sourly.

Bowing apologetically, she replied. "I overslept. I couldn't fall asleep last night."

His face softened as he heard her confession. "I understand. The last few days have had everyone's emotions in a jumble. Mr. Mita said he had trouble sleeping as well. Hopefully everything will calm down now. Have a good day, Miss Hayakawa."

Walking briskly past him, she made her way to the shoe cubby. She saw her teammates waiting for her. "Morning, guys." She called.

"Hey Ryo, how are you doing?" Hikaru asked with concern. "We were wondering if you'd even show up today."

"Yeah, the way you took off, we thought we were going to need to hunt for you again." Koharu added, relief showing on her face.

"I'm all right." She responded with a reassuring smile as she kicked off her street shoes. "I'm sorry I made you all worry about me."

"Where did you go?" Kanako asked. "They went out to look for you, but you'd disappeared."

"I ran across the college grounds." She replied, pulling her school shoes out and slipping them on. "I needed some time alone to think."

"I'm just glad you didn't end up in the hospital again." Yoko said, absentl mindedy twirling her hair in her fingers.

"As am I." Ms. Himuro said as she approached the group. "You were quite distraught when I saw you last. How are you feeling, Ryo? If you'd like, we can talk in my office later."

"Thank you, Ms. Himuro, but I'm okay." Ryo said with a slight bow. "Instructor Aoyama's sister helped me see that my ability really is a gift. She thinks I might be able to help people with it someday. I'm sorry if I made you worry about me."

"Please do not concern yourself about that." She said with a warm smile. "Today, just concentrate on your schoolwork. Speaking of which, shouldn't you all be getting to class?" She added as she studied the face of her watch. She looked back up to see the five young women hurrying away from her.

"No running in the halls!" Kodanuke yelled after them as he stepped up. "I swear, Madam Chairperson. Those girls have no sense of propriety. They're so disruptive."

"They were concerned for their friend, and decided to wait for her." She replied as she began walking towards her office. "I think we can forgive them today."

"If you say so, Madam Chairperson." The Vice Principal said as he fell into step beside her. "However, there have been other times…" He finished, leaving his thoughts implied.

Glancing at him, she smiled as she said. "Boundless energy is part of being a teenager, Mr. Kodanuke. The difference between them and the rest of the girls in this school is that they haven't been constantly hounded about proper behavior since they were old enough to walk. Personally, I find their exuberance refreshing. And remember, if those girls weren't so energetic, they wouldn't be nearly as effective on the baseball field."

Kodanuke stared slack jawed. Then a wide smile appeared as he gushed. "You're absolute right. Madam Chairperson. I'd never thought of it that way." Then his face became grave as he added. "You don't suppose the girls that will be joining the team this year will be the same way, do you?"

"I would be surprised if they weren't." She replied as they reached her office and the man opened the door for her. "Have a good day, Mr. Kodanuke." She said as she crossed the threshold, her mind already working on how she was going to face down the Parent's Association.

oOo

"So there's no way you'd let me take you to dinner?" Kobiyashi asked the nurse.

"I'm sorry, but I already have a boyfriend." She said as she moved towards the door, carrying away his empty breakfast tray. She stopped, and turning back, added frostily. "Besides, I don't like men who can't talk to me without staring at my chest."

"But it's such a nice one, I couldn't help it." He pleaded as he leaned towards her.

The woman harrumphed and quickly left the room.

"Shot down in flames again." Watanabe said stepping through the doorway. "I don't think you'll ever get a girl until you control that lusty heart of yours."

"Hey, what's up Hiro?" His friend said as he sat back against the pillow. "Ah, it's just my luck to always pick the prudes. I need to find a girl who's not so uptight."

"Maybe you should transfer to vice. You can try your luck capturing the heart of a prostitute." The man teased as he found the chair next to the bed.

"And have her pimp come after me for stealing one of his girls? No thanks." He sighed as he closed his eyes. "I think I'm just destined to be a lonely heart, loving many women, but being loved by none."

"Uhh, okay…Hey, has the section chief talked to you yet?" Watanabe asked seriously.

"Yeah, he was here." The other man said from his bed, rubbing his eyes wearily. "Suspended one week for failure to follow proper police procedure. Then I need to have a physical evaluation to see if I'm fit to return to duty." Slamming his fist down on the bed, he vehemently added. "Damn, I'd like to get my hands on the jerk that blindsided me like that!"

"Well, they're all in custody, so don't get too worked up." He replied seriously. "Just forget about them and get better…Say, Isao, what's your take on the Himuro girl?"

"I dunno. She seems okay to me. Why?" He answered looking sideways at his friend.

"She was fearless in helping me catch those perps yesterday." Watanabe said meeting the man's gaze. "I felt bad about her having to get involved, so I…gave her a ride to school this morning." He dropped his head as quickly mumbled the last bit.

"Oh ho!" Kobiyashi exclaimed brightly. "Has the princess' hot little body captured the eye of our intrepid young officer?"

"NO! I mean, well, maybe, a little." He stammered. "It's not just that. I went there to give her a lift to apologize for not keeping her safe. But as we drove and talked, I noticed what a mature young woman she really was, and…"

"So what's the problem?" His friend asked. "It's not like she's a little girl. And you're only twenty-two. Grow a pair and ask her out to dinner."

"What are you talking about?" Watanabe said anxiously as he stood. "She's an aristocrat and a celebrity. I'm just a common policeman. It would be a societal disaster!"

"So she made some sports headlines last year, big deal!" He said irritably. "You do this every time! You find a girl you like, and then you come up with some lame excuse why you can't before ever trying to ask them out. Keep this up, and they'll start calling you Ken Nakajima Jr."

"Oh come on! I have a long way to go before I'm that chicken hearted." Watanabe said scowling. "His cowardice was so legendary we heard about it in the academy. He kept poor Kobayakawa strung along for nearly two years before he found the guts to tell her how he felt. I lost five thousand in that betting pool on when he would tell her. Then, of all people, Chief Inspector Arizuka was the one who walked away with the money."

"What can you say? He worked pretty closely with both of them. Some people even think he twisted Nakajima's arm." Kobiyashi said with a grin and a wink. "Come on Hiro. Go get her some flowers, pick her up from school, and invite her to dinner."

"Oh yeah, that reminds me." The man said solemnly. "She said she'd mentioned some silly fantasy and was worried you had told me. So, tell me Isao. What did you two talk about yesterday when I was in the flower shop?"

The man's face became grim as he crossed his arms and frowned. "Like she said, it was a silly schoolgirl fantasy. If she doesn't want me to tell you, I'm not going to tell you."

"Come on Isao." Watanabe pleaded. "I don't want to upset her. If I press her for it, we'll just end up arguing again."

"No. You're always telling me to keep my mouth shut. I think it's time I start doing just that. You'll have to ask her tonight at dinner, because I'm not going to spill."

"Fine, have it your way." He replied sullenly, heading for the door. "I skipped breakfast, so I'm going to grab something from a vending machine. Don't worry; I'm still going to give you a ride when you're released. I'll be back in a bit." He finished as he left the room. Walking down the hallway, silently stewing at his friend's stubbornness, he stopped short when he saw who was at the machine before him. The man, noticing the movement, looked in his direction. With a nod of acknowledgement, he motioned for the police man to join him.

"Good morning, Officer." Shinosuke Fujishima said when Watanabe approached. "I hear you had an adventuresome afternoon yesterday."

"It had its moments." The lawman replied. "I heard you paid the suspect a visit. Why did you need to go there?"

"I only wanted to give the young man some advice. Advice I wish I would have given him before this all went down. I was not a happy man. I expressed that displeasure to him, and suggested a course of action he could take to atone for his transgressions. He seemed quite willing to cooperate."

"I wondered why he caved in so quickly." He said, scowling angrily. "He was arrogantly defiant to the police, but the minute you showed up, he was like a whipped puppy. You threatened his life, didn't you?"

The yakuza said nothing as he made his selection. Reaching into the tray, he stood holding a box of chocolate Pocky. "It's for my daughter. She's been so good with the new baby, that I thought she deserved a reward. Unfortunately the machine in Maternity was out."

"Please answer my question." Watanabe pressed.

"I didn't need to." The man responded as he slipped the sweets into his jacket pocket. "I only needed to inform him of his brother's concern for his future, and he was agreeable to my proposal. I did him a favor. It's far better he crossed an organization that's willing to be forgiving. If he'd continued on, doing as he pleases, without regard to territory, I believe some other family would have seen to his demise. I owe his brother too much to allow that to happen. Good day Officer. I need to get back to my wife. We're taking our new daughter home today."

Watanabe stared as the man walked away without a second glance. "Maybe the hype about him is wrong." He mumbled as he dug in his pocket for change. "He seems okay." He added as he began feeding coins into the slot.

oOo

"Quiet your mind." Motoko murmured softly. "Take deep cleansing breaths and focus your thoughts inward. Feel your heart beat in your chest. That is the first step in finding your center and manipulating your ki."

"Okay, I'll try." Mao said uneasily. Sitting cross-legged on her bed with her eyes closed, she took a deep breath and slowly let it out. She repeated this until she felt the tension begin to leave her body. Her mind clear of any other thought, she tried to sense her heart's regular rhythm. Except for a baby's cry that could be heard faintly through the closed door, the room was silent as the two women meditated. After a few minutes, Mao spoke. "This is nice, Motoko. I feel really relaxed."

"That is its intended purpose." The samurai replied. "It is much easier to initially channel your ki in this state. Can you sense it?"

"I'm not really sure what it feels like, so I don't know." The younger of the two admitted. "I guess I need to practice more."

"It will come. I have been doing this since I was three. I shouldn't expect someone to sense their ki the first time. Do this every morning, and whenever you feel overwhelmed by anxiety. I believe you will be more at ease in the classroom."

"I hope so. It's been almost a year, and I still feel out of place sitting in school." Her stomach rumbled loudly, causing Mao to blush. Glancing at her roommate, she got up and said. "I'm going to visit Yuki. Maybe I'll stop by and see Amy too."

"The nurse never did bring you your eggs, did she?" Motoko said rising and going to her duffle. She pulled out a small pouch that clinked when she set it on the bed. Opening it, she pulled out two one hundred yen coins. "Here Mao, buy something for yourself at the vending machines. That way your stomach won't announce your arrival when you visit your friends."

"You don't need to do that, Motoko." The catcher said motioning for the woman to stop. "I can just get a couple of Yuki's cookies and I'll be fine."

"That is inadequate sustenance." The samurai replied with furrowed brows. "There are protein bars and supplement drinks in those machines. Any of which will be nutritionally superior to cookies. I insist Mao." She added, marching up to the girl and pressing the money into her hand. "Go, and give your friends my regards."

"Would you like to come with me?" Mao asked. "If you don't feel up to walking that far, I could ask for a wheelchair."

Just as Motoko was about to refuse, a baby's cry erupted from the next room. A pained look crossed the swordswoman's face as she sighed. "Your offer suddenly sounds rather appealing. Let's go."

They made their way to the nurse's station, moving slowly to accommodate Motoko's ribs. The nurse looked up from her paperwork at their approach. "What in the world are you two doing? This isn't a hotel where you can come and go as you please. Miss Aoyama, you need to be resting!"

"I find myself unable to do so in that room." The warrior replied evenly. "Miss Daidoji has invited me to accompany her as she visits her friends who are hospitalized as well. I would find the trip much less tasking if I could impose on you to procure a wheelchair for me. I will be able to rest adequately from there."

"I feel good, Nurse." Mao added cheerfully. "I think I'm ready to go home. I just want to see my friends before I'm discharged."

"Do both of you promise that you won't perform any more heroics?" The nurse asked suspiciously. "I would really get chewed out if something happened to either of you." At their nods of affirmation, the woman sighed, and picked up the phone. Dialing, she waited a few moments before saying. "This is Maternity. I need a spare wheelchair brought up. Ours is currently being used... Thank you." Hanging up the phone, she stood and exited her cubicle, appearing around the corner a few moments later pushing a wheelchair. "Here, please be discrete in your travels. The last thing I need is for your doctors to come yelling at me for letting their patients roam unsupervised through the halls."

"I will take full responsibility." Motoko said as she sat down gently into the chair. "Thank you for your cooperation."

"Yeah, yeah, just stay out of trouble and we'll forget all about it. Wait a moment before you go." She said turning back toward her cube. When she was seated at her station once more, she added. "What patients are you going to see? Do you need their room numbers?"

"I've visited Yuki yesterday, but I'm not sure where Amy's room is." Mao admitted. "I'd appreciate your help." She added with a polite bow.

"If it will keep you from wandering the halls for hours searching, I'm glad to help." She said pulling up the hospital records on her computer. "What's her full name?"

"Amy Watson. She's the girl that was attacked in the garage yesterday." She replied sadly. "I couldn't believe it when Instructor Aoyama told me last night."

"Watson…" The woman muttered as she typed in the name. "There it is. She's in room 3416."

"Thank you again." Mao told her with another bow.

"We will try to be back within the hour." Motoko added as Mao wheeled her away. They chatted as they went, Mao filling her friend in on what to expect from the other students at Kisuragi. Motoko's face became grim as she listened to the girl describe the arrogance that prevailed. "Chairperson Himuro has also expressed concerns on this subject. It seems Kanako and I will need to prove ourselves to them as well before they will accept us as instructors." She said when Mao finished.

"Do you really think they'll treat you that way, Motoko? You're the heir to a noble house, so they have to respect you. Don't they?"

"People like that respect only money and power, so I am anticipating a cool reception. A true samurai is unassuming, and is willing to defend those who cannot defend themselves. I do not dress lavishly, and although my family's dojo has existed for hundreds of years, I would never assume the lofty attitude such a history would suggest. Kanako cannot even claim that, although she is an extremely capable martial artist."

"I haven't met her yet, have I?" Mao inquired

"No, she is currently managing the dorms, and had other duties last night." She said offhandedly. Then closing her eyes added. "There are the vending machines. Remember Mao, something nutritious."

"Daddy, where are you?" Mao heard a small voice say as they approached the machine. Moving closer, she spotted Kimiko Fujishima crouched along side it, frightened tears filling her eyes.

"Hey there." Mao said tenderly as she stepped up and squatted next to her. "Are you lost?"

"No. I can't find my daddy." She said, rubbing her eyes. "He was going to buy me some Pocky, but he didn't come back to me and Mama. I tried to find him, but I can't. I'm scared."

"It'll be okay." The high schooler said as she reached out and gently patted the child's head. She stood, and bending over, held out her hand. "I'm sure he's back with your mother and is wondering where you are. Let's go see if he's there."

Kimiko looked up at her in wonder. "Wow, you're even bigger than big sister Seira!"

"Seira Morimura? How do you know her?" Mao asked as the little girl took her hand.

"She gave me a piggyback ride when big brother Corey carried Mama to the policeman's house. And yesterday, everyone came to see my little sister." She replied as she jumped to her feet. Noticing Motoko for the first time, she stopped short. "She's a scary lady." She added as she stepped closer to Mao.

"Why do you say that?" Mao inquired, looking down at her. "Motoko is a nice person."

"She look's mad." Kimiko said quietly.

"I am not mad." Motoko said indignantly. Then, seeing the child's reaction, she forced a smile and gently addressed her. "Don't worry, I won't hurt you. I'm Motoko, and this is Mao. Can you tell us your name?"

"Kimiko." She replied warily. "You promise you're not mean?"

"I swear on my family's honor that I would never raise a hand to injure an innocent." The samurai replied, her hand over her heart.

"You talk like Grandpa." The little girl said with a smile. "Can I call you Grandma Motoko?"

"What!" She exploded. "Do I look old enough to be a grandmother?" Then she grimaced as her broken ribs objected to her outburst.

"Calm down Motoko!" Mao entreated as Kimiko hid behind her. "She didn't mean anything by that." Then looking down at the cowering child, she said warmly. "You're right, she can be scary. I know Kimiko, why don't you call her Auntie Motoko instead? Okay?"

"Okay." She said quietly, stepping out. Giving a little bow, she added. "I'm sorry I made you mad." Then, concern showing on her small features, she approached the swordswoman. "You looked just like my Mama did when I jumped on the bed. Did the doctor have to cut open your tummy to get a baby out too?"

Motoko's expression softened as she shook her head. "No, I have not had a child. I broke four of my ribs yesterday. Thank you for your concern though. You're sweet to ask. I regret my reaction earlier. Please forgive me."

"It's okay. I understand. I don't like it when people call me a baby either." Kimiko replied with a wide smile. "Hey, do you want to see my sister? She's with Mama right now."

"I think we should." The swordswoman answered. "I'm sure your mother is concerned for you. Would you like to ride on my lap?"

"Can I?" she asked excitedly.

"Are you sure, Motoko?" Mao asked. "You don't need those ribs bumped."

With a confirming nod, she replied. "I survived Su nearly breaking my neck, so I think I'll be able to handle a small child sitting quietly on my lap."

"Okay." Mao said as she scooped up Kimiko and set her down on her friends lap. Then she watched as Motoko whispered something to the child, who looked at Mao and then giggled, nodding in agreement.

"Well, buy your snack and let's get going Mao." Motoko said as Kimiko leaned back against her. "We have friends to visit."

oOo

Tsuruko Aoyama moved unhurriedly up the drive of Kisuragi Girls' School, noting as she did the expensive cars parked it the visitor's lot. "These people live in such shameless extravagance." She said to herself as she approached the steps to the entrance. Her eyebrows rose slightly when she noticed two security personnel standing at the top.

"Excuse me, Ma'am." One of them said stepping forward and motioning for her to stop "This is a private institution. What business do you have here?"

"I am here to discuss something with Chairperson Himuro." The swordswoman replied with a gentle smile as she smoothly climbed towards them. "Could you direct me to her office please?"

"Weapons are not permitted on the school grounds. Please surrender your nodachi before entering or leave the premises." He replied extending his hand as the two of them blocked her path.

"Gentleman, I have no wish to make trouble, but I will not yield my blade to just anyone." She said, her eyes narrowing slightly as she paused. "My name is Tsuruko Aoyama. I am the master instructor at the God's Cry School in Kyoto. If you wish for an uneventful morning, do not press this issue."

"That's enough you two." A voice said from the doorway. "I'll take charge of things from here on."

Turning, they saw the head of security flanked by two more members of the security staff.

"Yes sir!" They replied crisply with a bow as he stepped out.

"Good morning, Master Instructor Aoyama." He addressed her with a bow "I am Okizayu, the director of security for Kisuragi Girls' High. Please come with me, and I will escort you to the chairperson's office. But first, I must insist that you surrender your weapon." Okizayu said unwaveringly. "I would lose my employment if I allowed you to bring such a deadly implement in there. Please be assured that I will personally take charge of it, and guarantee its safe return."

She studied his expression for a moment. "I never dreamed my presence would create a disturbance large enough to warrant such precautions." She replied sardonically as she handed him her sword. "A word of warning, Mr. Okizayu… This sword is my single most precious possession. I only concede to your request as an act of good faith. It would be unfortunate for you if anything should happen to it."

"Thank you for your cooperation." He answered with a bow as he received it. "Fear not, it shall not leave my side, Master Instructor. I will hold your weapon at the security office, and return it to you when you are ready to leave. I am sure you are an honorable woman, but seeing as this isn't a practice sword you're carrying, we believe it is necessary." He reassured her. "The parent's association is convening this morning, and if we don't make a good show, there will be repercussions." Okizayu said as motioned for her to proceed into the building.

She frowned as he fell in step beside her, followed by the others. "I see." She said evenly. "They own the cars that are parked outside?"

"Yes Ma'am." He said with a nod. "They are in a foul mood as well. The school has received entirely too much unfavorable attention from the press lately, and they are looking for someone to blame."

"This sounds intriguing. I only arrived in Tokyo yesterday afternoon. Could you please tell me what has occurred?" She asked with a small bow of her head. "I dislike entering a situation without being familiar with all the details."

As they continued walking, Okizayu relayed the whole story of all that had transpired since the attack on the girls the night of the party. Tsuruko listened carefully, asking for clarification at a few points. Finally, they reached the doors to Ms. Himuro's office, where Mr. Yamagida was seated at his desk, talking on the phone. "Good morning." The security chief said when the personal assistant was finished.

"Good morning, Mr. Okizayu." The man said as he rose "If you are here to see the chairperson, I'm afraid she's already meeting with the Parent's Association."

"I'm not here for myself. This woman would like to discuss something with her."

"I'm pleased to meet you." She greeted with a bow. "I am Tsuruko Aoyama, the master instructor at the God's Cry School of Swordsmanship. I met the chairperson last night and would like to discuss the details regarding her proposal of my sister working here."

"Madam mentioned you to me last night." Yamagida replied, returning the bow. "She was hoping to hear from you today. Please enter and make yourself comfortable. I will inform the chairperson that you are here."

"Excuse me, Mr. Yamagida. Would it be possible for me to attend this meeting? After hearing from Mr. Okizayu the concerns of the Parent's Association, I believe I could be of some assistance to the chairperson." She inquired with a somber tone.

"Madam was going to introduce the plan for teaching the girls self defense at this meeting." He answered after a moment. "Perhaps your presence will soothe their anxieties on this matter. Please follow me."

They proceeded further down the hall until they reached another set of double doors. Angry voices could be heard, although not clearly. "It seems Mr. Okizayu was correct about them being upset."

He knocked twice then opened the door. The room grew suddenly quiet when they saw Tsuruko step into the room.

"What's the meaning of this Yamagida?" Mr. Kusunoki said indignantly. "You know these meetings are private."

"She is here because she is part of this school's future." Ms. Himuro interjected. "She is the master instructor at the God's Cry School in Kyoto."

Bowing, she replied. "Forgive my intrusion. My name is Tsuruko Aoyama. Please treat me kindly." Straightening, she turned back to her escort with a warm smile. "Thank you for showing me to the door Mr. Yamagida. I won't need to impose on you any longer."

"It was no imposition, but you are welcome." He said bowing his head. Then he approached Ms. Himuro. "Madam, I just received a call from the police." He then bent down and spoke too softly for the others in the room to hear.

Ms. Himuro's face became grave as she listened to the news. When he finished, she acknowledged him with a nod. "Thank you for relaying the information Mr. Yamagida. Would you make our guest a cup of tea please?" When he moved to the side table to complete this task, she addressed the room. "Please excuse me for a moment. Mr. Mita, please continue the discussion." Then standing, she turned to Tsuruko. "Master Instructor, please join me." The samurai acquiesced with a slight bow and followed her into a small side room. Closing the door, she gave a pained smile as she said. "Please sit down." When the woman had taken a seat, the chairperson continued. "There was another incident at the hospital last night. Someone made an attempt on your sister's life."

"Oh? Is that so?" The swordswoman replied calmly. "Was Motoko injured?"

"Not that I know." The chairperson replied. "The culprit was apprehended, and is being questioned by the police. I felt it better if we didn't share this with the Parent's Association. They would argue that you and your sister are dangerous people and would be a threat to this school."

Tsuruko chuckled before replying. "Madam Chairperson, we are dangerous people. Facing demons requires ruthlessness and complete competence in our swordsmanship. Motoko will someday be responsible for leading our clan. The thought of not being able to meet that responsibility frightened her to the point that she fled to Tokyo. We allowed her to go because we felt she needed interaction with people outside of the God's Cry School. Her years living at Hinata Sou have given her wonderful memories and strong friendships. We believe experiences like these help a warrior resist the glamour evil can use to tempt us in combat. She has become a very competent warrior. I would wager that Motoko subdued her attacker even with her broken ribs."

"If you believe that, I am in no position to argue." Ms. Himuro replied as she sat down in the next chair. "Has your clan made a decision regarding your sister teaching here?"

"We have…" She paused at a knocking on the door, smiling as Yamagida entered with her tea. Taking the cup from him, she thanked him and the waited for him to leave the room. When the door closed, she continued. "We have agreed to let Motoko teach your students. There are a few conditions, however."

"Nothing too unreasonable I hope." The chairperson said leaning back and crossing her arms. "I have less than two months to establish this curriculum."

"It will be quite painless, I assure you." Taking a sip from her cup, she exclaimed. "Wonderful! Much better than the tea I had in the hotel's restaurant this morning." Smiling warmly at Ms. Himuro, she continued. "We wish to establish a campus of the God's Cry School within Kisuragi Girls' High."

"You honor us." Ms. Himuro responded, leaning forward in her chair and bowing her head. "To be formally affiliated with such a renowned school of swordsmanship is indeed auspicious."

"There would not be any real sword work here." Tsuruko said seriously. "I have no wish to cause any more friction between yourself and the Parent's Association. Motoko will focus on unarmed defensive techniques and meditation. If she does encounter someone she feels would be a good swordswoman, she will encourage the girl to join the kendo club and develop basic techniques. I have already extended an invitation to Miss Hayakawa to come study with us when she graduates."

The chairperson leaned back again. "You want Ryo? Are you sure? She doesn't handle conflict well, choosing to run away instead of facing it. I doubt she would make a good swordswoman."

"I read the article about her saving those children last year at nearly the cost of her own life." The Master Instructor replied with another smile. "She truly has a warrior's spirit. I do agree with you, however; that she would be ill suited for combat. Her compassionate heart would be an exploitable weakness."

"Then what use would she be?" The other woman pressed. "She's become quite dear to me and I would be saddened if anything were to happen to her."

Tsuruko took another sip of tea before responding. "On more difficult missions, a warrior is accompanied by a healer. Someone who can replenish a warrior's depleted ki energy after a battle. With training, I believe she would be an outstanding one." Standing, she moved to the door. Laying her hand on the knob, she added. "We can discuss this further after a bit. You still have a crisis to resolve in the other room."

"You are correct." Ms. Himuro replied, getting to her feet. "Saving her friend may have been the final straw for Seira Morimura. My daughter Izumi is under fire as well. They will not look blindly away this time." Then, smoothing her skirt, she strode boldly through the door as Tsuruko opened it. The swordswoman silently followed, a gentle smile hiding the anger beginning to simmer in her soul.

oOo

A/N: I can't offer any excuse for waiting this long to update. I can only ask forgiveness in my tardiness. I had two thirds of this chapter written by the end of February, but the last two scenes just wouldn't come. I appreciate altrealitylover's plea for more so I dusted of the laptop and finished 500 words in about a week. If you want me to keep going, let me know. If you want me to go to hell, you can share that too. Sorry again for those of you who were looking forward to this four months ago.

OMS