Author Note: It was really hard describing this scene the way I saw it in my head due to all the jumping around. I hope it makes sense and the breaks aren't distracting! =T
This is the biggest and most dense chapter yet. There was just no good way to break it up without having an abrupt and awkward end before another chapter so I just decided to give you the whole scene...all at once! ^_^
Kyudo-gi = [Japanese] 'Kyudo' is the Japanese martial art of archery. '-gi' is a suffix and shortened word for "keikogi" which refers to the respective training uniform used in a martial arts discipline.
Yumi = [Japanese] refers to a bow used in Kyudo
Sha = [Japanese] "shoot"
-obasan = [Japanese] 'oba' means "aunt" and I used it with the honorific 'san' after it
Okaasan = [Japanese] "mother"
I don't own Sailor Moon, any songs, or brand names and have tried to the best of my ability to site my references.
Takeuchi, N. (1991). Sailor Moon. Bunkyo, Tokyo, Japan: Kodansha Ltd.
Lawrence, J. and Trenet, C. (1959). Beyond the Sea [Recorded by Bobby Darin]. On That's All [record], New York, New York: ATCO Records.
The Expedition Hunter arrow model belongs to Gold Tip, LLC (cited September, 2013). The brand and product is used merely as a descriptor for this fiction piece.
Chapter 13:
Haruka and Michiru had a little less than 100 attendees at their wedding. Once the ceremony ended, everyone shuffled out of the room where the ceremony was held into a neighboring, elegant banquet hall for the dinner reception and entertainment portion of the night. As the guests entered the hall, an upbeat, jazzy song played softly in the background,
- Somewhere beyond the sea, somewhere waiting for me, my lover stands on golden sand and watches the ships that go sailing. Somewhere beyond the sea, she's there watching for me. If I could fly like birds on high then straight to her arms, I'd go sailing. -
The banquet hall had a 12' by 16', wooden dance floor that was set up close to the far wall. To the left of the dance floor was an elevated, professional disc jockey booth equipped with two laptops and DJ controllers where Setsuna was busily queuing up the rest of the dinner playlist. At the far corners of the dance floor, closest to the wall, were two sets of professional speakers from which the soft music played.
Ten round tables, each easily fitting ten guests, were situated into two, staggered rows around the dance floor and were covered with impeccable, cream-colored tablecloths that matched the satin chair covers. Encircling the backrest of each chair was a royal-blue, silk chair sash tied in a neat bow with the tails flowing down nearly to the floor. Formal place settings and glassware were set in front of each chair and surrounded a bubble ball vase placed upon a square, aluminum glass mirror that acted as a centerpiece. Each vase had a lit, votive candle, housed in a glass holder, sitting in the center surrounded by sand that filled the vase one-third of the way. Surrounding the candle and holder inside the vase, on top of the sand, was a variety of tiny seashells, starfish, and teal and blue glass beads, alluding to a beach theme.
Lining the left and right walls of the room were alternating teal and light-blue up lights that bathed the room in their soft blend of color and gave a trendy, modern-look to the space. The chandeliers and recessed lights in the ceiling were dimmed just enough to give off soft, golden light that complemented the glow of the up lights against the walls. Along the back wall of the room, behind the tables on the opposite side of the room from the dance floor, were thin, telescoping light stands, one of which held pin spot lights that shined a soft glow of gold light directly in the center of each table, highlighting the centerpieces, while the other held gobo lights that shined seashell and wave patterns along the walls, underscoring the theme of the wedding.
The wedding party was seated together at the most prominent table situated near the front, right-corner of the dance floor. Haruka and Michiru seated themselves closest to the dance floor, allowing for them to excuse themselves with ease to attend to pleasantries with other guests or other duties and traditions expected of a newly wedded couple at such an event. Michiru sat to Haruka's left, followed by Usagi, Mamoru, Ami, Makoto, Minako, Rei, and Hotaru who sat to Haruka's right.
Once all the guests had settled into their seats, Makoto organized her staff as they served a mouth-watering, seven-course dinner, which was immediately followed by the wedded couples' cake-cutting, dessert, and after-dinner coffee and tea.
"That was such a beautiful wedding!," Usagi sobbed as she turned to Mamoru's shoulder for the umpteenth time that night. Mamoru brought an arm up around his girlfriend's shoulders, silently trying to calm her down.
"Yes, it was," Ami agreed with a nod. She turned and looked sheepishly at Makoto and blushed slightly, "A-And the food was q-quite delicious, K-Kino-san," she stuttered bashfully.
"T-Thanks, Mizuno-san," Makoto replied as she blushed deeply and brought a hand up to rub the back of her neck bashfully.
Minako giggled to herself. Both Ami and Makoto had been acting like this with each other ever since they met in Michiru's room, Looks like Ami-chan finally found something more interesting than those research journals!
Setsuna walked over to the table and gently touched Haruka's and Michiru's shoulders, getting their attention, "We're ready for the entertainment portion whenever you are."
"Great!," Haruka replied. She looked to Michiru and held an inviting hand up to her, "Shall we, love?"
Michiru smiled as she gracefully placed her hand in Haruka's, who brought it up to her lips and kissed it gently, "Ara, it's not every day Haruka's such a gentleman," Michiru blushed as they both stood up and followed Setsuna.
Minako smirked and leaned towards Rei, "So that's who you got that slick move from when you left Kirei," she whispered teasingly.
Rei smirked, "She taught me everything I know," she whispered matter-of-factly with a casual shrug.
"Not everything," Minako whispered slyly, "If I remember correctly, I believe you said I was the one who taught you how to kiss last night."
Rei chuckled softly, "Touché, Minako," she whispered playfully in reply.
"I'm so glad you're a fast learner, Rei-chan," Minako giggled. As they both turned their attention to the dance floor, the house lights faded up, illuminating the room. A concert, grand piano and piano bench were rolled in with a violin case sitting on top of the lid of the piano.
Setsuna stepped to the middle of the dance floor with a microphone as Haruka sat herself in front of the piano and Michiru busied herself with unpacking the violin,
"Thank you, everyone, for coming to celebrate this day of love between Tenoh Haruka and Kaiou Michiru," Setsuna announced into the microphone, getting the guests' attention, "The couple, in particular, would like to thank the Elegancia and its staff for their wonderful hospitality, especially Kino Makoto, their dear friend and the Executive Chef, for preparing a spectacular menu for all of us."
Makoto blushed and looked down at the table as the crowd applauded in approval. Minako smiled slyly as she caught Ami sneaking a timid, admiring glance at Makoto.
"They'd also like to thank their wedding party and close friends at Table 1 for their support and love, especially Aino Minako who graciously provided her skills and talents to making everyone look glamorous and beautiful today," Setsuna continued.
It was Minako's turn to blush and look down at the table as the crowd applauded. Rei turned towards the gorgeous blonde and, seeing the bashful embarrassment exuding from her aura, gently placed her hand on Minako's to comfort her. Minako looked up towards Rei, who was smiling warmly at her, and she smiled shyly in return.
"In lieu of a first dance, the couple instead wanted to show their appreciation to everyone by performing an original piece that they wrote together. So, without further ado, I present to you the happy couple," Setsuna gestured towards Haruka and Michiru behind her as she exited the dance floor. The guests applauded politely as Haruka nodded and Michiru bow towards the guests. Haruka rested her hands lightly on the keys of the piano as Michiru placed her violin snugly between her chin and her shoulder. Michiru nodded to Haruka and they began playing a beautiful, classical duet together. Anyone who knew the two women would have been able to hear each of them within the song as the aggressive and flirtatious piano notes danced perfectly with the elegant and regal notes of the violin.
After a few minutes, Setsuna quietly came around to the table and touched Rei lightly on the shoulder, "The song's about to end, Rei-kun. Are you ready?"
"Mmn," Rei replied softly with a nod as she stood up. Before she could follow Setsuna, Minako quickly grabbed her hand, gently halting her. When Rei turned back to look at Minako, she saw a questioning look within her piercing sapphires. Rei smiled softly as she felt small waves of orange-gold concern and nervousness flowing through her hand,
"Don't worry, Minako," Rei said softly with reassurance as she gently squeezed Minako's hand, "I have to go do something, but I'll be back." Keeping her eyes on Minako, she lifted Minako's hand to her lips and kiss it softly. With a wink, she let Minako's hand go and turned to follow Setsuna. She only took a step before she paused and turned back around to look at the gorgeous makeup artist.
"Minako, do you mind if I borrow your hair ribbon?," Rei asked quietly, "It'd really mean a lot to me if I could use it for a bit."
Though Minako looked at Rei with a puzzled expression due to the odd request, she reached up and pull the teal ribbon from her hair. Rei watched intently as Minako's silky, gold locks fell free from the material, cascading down past her shoulders. Minako folded the ribbon up quickly and held it up to Rei, who smiled appreciatively as she took it,
"Thanks," Rei whispered, "I promise I'll be back soon and I'll bring this back with me."
Minako continued to watch Rei quizzically as the beautiful archer turned and followed Setsuna out one of the side doors.
"Hey, Mina-chan!," Usagi hissed excitedly to Minako from across the table. Minako jumped a little at the sound, abruptly bringing her out of her thoughts. She hadn't noticed that Usagi had recovered from her crying fit, "What was that all about between you and Hino-san!?"
"U-Ummm…," Minako stammered, "W-Well...you know that woman I told you about that I met last night?"
"Yeah?," Usagi nodded in reply. Suddenly her eyes widened in understanding. Minako began to blush.
"Oh my Gods, Mina-chan!," Usagi chided in a stage whisper, "Shame on you! You're two-timing the girl you met last night with Hino-san!?"
Minako groaned as she facepalmed, Mataku! See, Haru-chan!? I'm so not as bad as Usa-neechan!.
"U-Usagi-chan," Ami said timidly in a soft tone, "I think what Mina-chan's trying to say is Hino-san is the woman she met last night."
Usagi looked at Ami with brief confusion before the information sank in and her eyes widened again. As she was about to scream and squeal from excitement, Mamoru's fast reflexes reacted and he wrapped his arm around her head, firmly covered her mouth with his hand. Usagi's muffled voice could still be heard quite audibly from behind Mamoru's hand by those at the table, but it was mostly drowned out by the applause coming from the rest of the guests as Haruka and Michiru ended their performance. Ami and Makoto tried to help Mamoru shush and calm Usagi down as Minako blushed and looked at her sister sheepishly.
"Ara, did I miss something exciting?," Michiru asked as she approached the table and took her seat next to Usagi. Mamoru, sensing Usagi had finished with her squealing, finally released his girlfriend's head.
"Michi-chan!," Usagi whispered loudly to her best friend as she bounced excitedly in her chair, "Hino-san is the woman Mina-chan met last night! Can you believe it!?"
"I thought as much," Michiru giggled as she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, "The way they've been interacting all night has been quite telling." She turned to look at Minako and winked, "Especially Rei. She seems quite taken by you, Mina-chan."
"S-Speaking of which," Minako said, quickly changing the subject, "Where did Rei-chan go?"
A proud smile graced Michiru's alluring lips, "Rei's going to be doing something very special for me and Haruka. Haruka's been upset about it all day, but it's only because she doesn't understand. We're all in for a rare treat." She turned to Hotaru and leaned over so she was at eye-level with the young girl, "Hotaru, be sure to give Rei-niichan a big hug when she comes back to the table, ok?"
"Ok!," Hotaru said cheerfully. Growing up with Michiru as a mother-figure, Hotaru was raised with the knowledge of how helpful her aura and presence was to people like her 'adopted mother' and 'adopted uncle' who had special abilities.
The piano, bench, and violin were wheeled away as Setsuna returned to the dance floor with microphone in hand, followed by Rei, who was dressed in traditional miko garb with her hair up in a high ponytail.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Setsuna announced into the microphone, "Allow me to introduce the best woman of the groom. Some of you may know her as the Flame Sniper, but, to the couple, she's known simply as Hino Rei. Today, as a gift to them, she will be performing a traditional, zen archery technique that demonstrates the highest honor an archer can show to someone. The technique is rarely performed due to the dangers involved and can only be successfully done by a true master in the art of archery. Because of this, we ask for complete silence while Hino-san performs this technique. Hino-san will also be adding her own unique touch to this tradition, which can only be performed by masters of the spiritual being."
"Wait, 'dangerous'!?," Minako hissed towards Michiru, "What exactly is she going to do!?"
"You'll see," Michiru smiled calmly towards Minako as she nodded reassuringly, "Have faith in her, Mina-chan. Before she went to change, she told me that she promised you she'd be back." She turned to look towards the raven-haired woman, "And our Rei never breaks a promise." Though Michiru's words were soft, they echoed with a confidence that could only be equated to someone speaking on a topic that was, without a doubt, one-hundred percent fact.
Minako nervously brought her azure gaze to Rei, who was standing in the center of the dance floor. Though she appeared stoic in an almost trance-like state, there was an odd, comforting sense of calm and control about her.
Haruka walked onto the dance floor from the side, wearing a blue and black Kyudo-gi. In one hand, she held a yumi while, in the other, she held a pure-white, Gold Tip Expedition Hunter arrow. The sleek, modern arrow seemed sorely out of place in contrast to the traditional clothing Rei and Haruka were wearing.
Haruka stepped in front of Rei and looked at her with intense seriousness, "Remember," she hissed quietly, "If this arrow touches you, even just a little bit, you better fucking pray it kills you. Because, if it doesn't, I will!"
"It won't, Haruka," Rei responded softly with calm confidence, "I promised Minako I'd come back to her."
Haruka was taken aback by Rei's words. She knew what it meant for Rei to make a promise to someone...to anyone really, "Rei, you…you just met her. Does she...does she really mean that much to you?"
"Yes," Rei responded without hesitation, looking directly into her best friend's eyes, "Maybe even more."
"Rei...," Haruka hesitated, "Is...Is Mina-chan…the one? Is she the one you've seen in your vision?," Other than Rei's grandfather, Haruka and Michiru were the only ones in the world who knew this deep secret.
Rei closed her eyes and sighed disappointedly, "I thought so at first, but the vision didn't come to fruition. But it...it almost did. Everything happened up to the point our hands met. But I didn't feel anything other than her aura."
"I see," Haruka replied solemnly as her shoulders slumped slightly, "I'm...I'm sorry, Rei."
"But I know there's something there," Rei said firmly as she opened her amethyst eyes and looked intensely at her best friend with determination, "I don't know what it is, but I...I can feel it, Haruka. Just because the vision didn't come to pass doesn't mean she's not the one."
Haruka opened her mouth to say something, but decided against it and let out a sigh. Knowing how stubborn Rei was, Haruka knew she wasn't going to get anywhere with her by arguing or trying to reason with her. Especially now, when Rei needed all of her focus and energy. She looked at Rei with concern, "Just…be careful, Rei. I don't want to see you get hurt," Haruka said in a gentle tone.
"Thanks, Haruka," Rei said sincerely with a nod, understanding the depth of her simple statement, "Alright, so remember, focus on the arrow and not until I give the signal, ok?"
"Got it," Haruka said with a nod. She turned so she was standing side-by-side with Rei, facing the guests.
"I present to you Tenoh Haruka and Hino Rei," Setsuna said as she gestured towards Haruka and Rei behind her as she exited again. The two women bowed in unison while the guests applauded softly in anticipation.
As Rei and Haruka turned to face each other, Rei reached into her robes and pulled out a standard-sized ofuda. Holding it between her index and middle finger in front of her, she closed her eyes and bowed her head slightly as she began whispering inaudibly over it.
When she finished, she opened her eyes and nodded to Haruka. Haruka slung the yumi over her shoulder as she held the arrow up horizontally with both hands, presenting it to Rei, who tied the ofuda securely below the tip of the arrow. After completing the task, Rei stepped back and bowed low to Haruka, who did the same. Haruka walked to the front, left-corner of the large dance floor while Rei walked towards the front, right-corner to Michiru, who stood to meet Rei.
Once Rei met Michiru, she pulled out another ofuda from her robes and briefly whispered chants over the sheet of paper between her fingers. When she finished, she opened her eyes and looked up at Michiru, "Ready?"
"Mmn," Michiru replied, holding her hands together with her palms up. Once Rei laid the sheet across Michiru's palms, the violinist closed her eyes and focused on the sheet of paper. To everyone in the room, it appeared as if Michiru was simply holding an ofuda in her hands. To Michiru and Rei, the paper was slowing being infused with a bit of Michiru's aura as a teal light began soaking into the paper. Once the paper began glowing in a bright teal color, Rei gently placed her hand over Michiru's, signaling that she had done enough. Michiru slowly opened her eyes and smiled at her childhood friend.
"That was perfect, Michiru," Rei said softly as she smiled towards the taller woman she considered her sister. After taking the ofuda from Michiru's hands, she knelt down towards Hotaru, "Firefly, give Michiru-mama a big hug. She did a really good job."
"Mmn!," Hotaru replied cheerfully. As Michiru sat back down in her chair, Hotaru slipped out of her chair and went over to climb into her 'adopted mother's lap. As Michiru wrapped her arms around the small child, she immediately began to feel re-energized from her presence.
Sensing a strong, orange-gold essence of fear and concern nearby, Rei glanced over towards Minako, who was staring nervously at her. Rei smiled warmly and winked at her before she turned and walked towards the back-right corner of dance floor, closest to the wall, and diagonally across from Haruka.
Once there, Rei faced Haruka and reached into her robe to pull out the teal ribbon Minako let her borrow. Holding the ofuda lightly between her lips for a moment, she used both hands to bring the ribbon up over her eyes and tie it around her head, blindfolding herself. She smiled and felt herself relax immediately as she breathed in a comforting, strawberry scent. When she had secured the ribbon over her eyes, she pulled the ofuda from her lips and held it between her index and middle finger close to her chest. She nodded firmly as a signal to Haruka to let her know she was ready.
Haruka, seeing Rei nod, took the arrow and loaded it onto the yumi. Taking a deep breath, she brought them up to her chest and pulled the string back, pointing the arrow right at Rei. She closed her eyes and focused on the arrow.
Oh my Gods, are you fucking serious!?, Minako thought as she watched in horror as Haruka aimed the arrow straight at Rei. Like all the other guests in the room, she didn't dare make a sound for fear of causing a very serious calamity, namely Rei's death.
To everyone, it appeared as if Haruka had loaded an arrow and was steadily aiming it at Rei. To Michiru, and in Rei's mind, the arrow was slowing being infused with a royal-blue light that was Haruka's aura.
However, Rei could see Haruka's aura wavering with uncertainty. She began to sense that Haruka was having trouble with the infusion due to how nervous the race car driver was of hurting her best friend, Damn it, Haruka! If you don't do this right I'm seriously going to get hurt!, Rei cursed to herself, I made a promise…Fuck, I'll have to exert more energy than I thought. She forced her energies across the dance floor, tapping into Haruka's aura.
Beads of perspiration began forming on Haruka's brow. She knew she was struggling to focus on the arrow properly, Fuck, if I don't do this right, Rei's seriously going to get hurt.
Fuck yeah, I will, asshole!, Haruka heard Rei's voice loud and clear in her mind. Haruka's eyes immediately shot open. Though she was startled by the sudden sound of her best friend's voice, she had enough awareness to not falter in her pose.
R-Rei!?, Haruka thought with shock, What...What the fuck!? Since when could you do this!?
Since forever!, Rei's voice replied, Now, I need you to shut the fuck up and listen to me! Close your eyes and focus!
Haruka quickly obeyed. In a more level tone, Rei's voice spoke slowly and calmly in Haruka's mind, Breathe, Haruka. Think of the arrow as an extension of your arm. You've done this before. I know you can do this. Keep breathing. Nice and slow. In and out.
Haruka did as she was told. She began to feel herself relax into her stance and she no longer felt fear or hesitation. Across the dance floor, Rei smiled as she felt Haruka's aura calm down, the arrow becoming more and more one with Haruka's aura.
Thanks, Rei, Haruka thought in a more collected tone, I really needed that.
I know, Rei's voice said softly, Haruka, you've been my big sister and best friend for as long as I can remember and you've never let me down. I know you won't hurt me. I trust you.
Rei…, Haruka thought as she began feeling the sting of tears coming to her eyes, I'm so proud to call you my best friend and little sister. I'll always be there for you, no matter what. I love you.
A tear slipped out from the bottom of the blindfold and ran down Rei's cheek, I love you, too, Haruka, her voice whispered sincerely in Haruka's mind. She sniffed back the rest of her tears and brought her focus back to the task at hand, Ok, Haruka, looks like the arrow's fully infused. Ready to do this?
Ready whenever you are, Haruka thought.
Alright, here goes, Rei voice said.
"Sha!," Rei called out loudly, startling everyone in the room except Haruka and Michiru. Haruka opened her eyes and released the arrow, allowing it to fly towards Rei.
Rei could sense the glowing, royal-blue projectile traveling slowly towards her. She smirked confidently as she twisted her body and threw the ofuda with her right hand towards the arrow. As it left her hand, it burst into a large, teal fireball as it headed towards the arrow.
When the ofuda below the tip of the arrow came in contact with the teal fireball, it burst into a royal-blue fireball of its own. As the arrow passed through the combined fireballs, the shaft of the arrow began changing colors. Instead of pure-white, the metallic shaft became a blend of swirling royal blue and teal colors. As quickly as they appeared, both fireballs disappeared in a puff of white smoke once the arrow fully journeyed through them and continued on its path...straight towards Rei's heart.
In one swift, fluid motion, Rei's left hand shot up and snatched the arrow, halting it dead in its tracks inches from her miko robes.
To Rei, the whole event appeared to have happened in slow motion and take place over a series of minutes. To onlookers, the event took only seconds and was, undoubtedly, both shocking and horrifying to watch.
Minako found herself panting heavily with dread. She didn't realize that she had jumped out of her seat in panic once she saw the arrow flying towards the beautiful, raven-haired woman. It took her and the other guests a few moments to realize that Rei was fine and that the arrow was no longer its pure-white color.
Rei pulled the ribbon down, removing it from her eyes, and allowed it to rest on her shoulders at the base of her neck. She and Haruka began walking toward each other and met in the center of the dance floor.
Michiru gently lifted Hotaru off her lap and set her on the ground. She quickly stood up and met the two women in the middle of the dance floor as well.
Once Michiru arrived, she stood side-by-side with Haruka, facing Rei as the archer bowed low and held the arrow up horizontally to the couple with both hands, presenting it to them. Haruka and Michiru bowed towards Rei as well and lifted the arrow from Rei's open hands, receiving the gift together. The guests applauded loudly from the show they just witnessed.
When all three women had straightened, Michiru carefully handed the arrow off to Haruka. Turning to Rei, she smiled warmly as she stepped forward and placed a hand on the smaller woman's shoulder, squeezing it gently, "Thank you so much, Rei," she said sweetly with sincerity.
Rei smiled and quickly stepped forward, pulling Michiru into a tight hug in reply. Michiru was surprised at first and quickly became worried about Rei's well-being due to her close proximity. After a second, she realized Rei was still standing and seemed fine being so close to her. Allowing herself to relax, Michiru brought her arms up and returned Rei's hug just as tightly.
When the hug ended, Rei looked towards Haruka who smiled and gave her a thumbs-up, "You did good, Rei."
Rei smirked and quickly grabbed Haruka by the wrist, pulling her into a tight hug. Haruka tried to resist at first for Rei's sake, fearing that Rei wouldn't have the energy to handle having two people so close to her after her stunt. Instead, to her surprise, she found Rei's grip to be strong and unrelenting. Haruka smiled proudly as she handed off the arrow to Michiru and wrapped her arms around the miko's waist, picking her up in a tight hug of her own.
Once Haruka returned Rei to the ground, Michiru walked back to the table with the arrow as the two best friends walked off the dance floor and out one of the side doors to change out of their garbs.
"Oh my Gods, I think I lost a few years of my life watching that!," Usagi said dramatically as she fell back in her chair, fanning her face with her hand.
"Yes, it was really quite intense," Ami agreed with a firm nod.
"Ara," Michiru said as she arrived at the table, "If you all feel that way, think about how Mina-chan feels right now."
She looked towards the blonde woman who was still standing and appeared frozen from shock. Her normally creamy skin had become almost as pale as Rei's and she was still panting, but not as heavily as before.
"I was afraid this would happen," Michiru said softly with concern to no one in particular. Not breaking her kind gaze from Minako's wide, sapphire eyes, Michiru placed the arrow down on the table and smiled softly as she slowly approached the smaller woman and gently enveloped her in a comforting hug. She could feel Minako's slender frame begin to shake.
"Mina-chan, it's Michi-chan," she whispered sweetly into Minako's ear, "I need you to breathe with me, ok?" Michiru began taking slow, deep breaths and letting them out equally as slow in a steady rhythm. After the first two, she began to feel Minako mimicking her actions,
"You're doing well, Mina-chan," Michiru said softly, "Just a few more, ok?" After a couple more breaths, Michiru began to feel Minako's small frame stop shaking as her body slowly relaxed. She smiled as she felt Minako's arms carefully wrap around her.
"Thanks, Michi-chan," Minako whispered, "I'm...I'm ok, now. Is...Is Rei-chan-"
"Rei's ok, Mina-chan," Michiru replied reassuringly, "She just went to go change. She's coming back to you. Like I said, she never breaks a promise." Michiru hugged Minako tighter, "I actually have to thank you, Mina-chan. That was…the first time Haruka and I have ever hugged Rei."
Minako was taken aback by Michiru's words, "R-Really?"
"Mmn," Michiru replied with a nod, "And I have a strong feeling that it has a lot to do with you. Thank you, Mina-chan. Please take care of her."
A loud cough came from behind Michiru and both women ended the hug to turn towards the sound.
"Sorry, Michiru, but do you mind? I'd like a chance at my date also," Rei smirked. She was back to wearing her groomsman outfit and her hair was down as she usually wore it, allowing the silky, black threads to cascade down her back.
"Of course, Rei," Michiru giggled sweetly as she stepped away from Minako and went back to her seat.
"Rei-chan...," Minako whispered as her cobalt eyes locked onto Rei's intense amethyst eyes.
"Hello, Minako," Rei said warmly. She held out the teal ribbon towards the gorgeous blonde, "As promised. Thanks for letting me borrow it."
"Rei-chan!," Minako cried as she threw herself at Rei, who caught her in a warm embrace. Rei gently stroked the blonde's soft hair, Do I really affect her this much?, the archer thought to herself curiously, Do I really mean this much to her?
"Shhh, it's ok, Minako. I'm here," Rei cooed as Minako began to weep softly within her arms. She could see Minako's orange-gold aura quivering as she felt the overwhelming shock and relief from the near sense of loss being emitted from the smaller woman. She kissed the side of Minako's head, comforting her as best she could.
Minako slowly calmed down and pulled back slightly to lock gazes with the archer, "I just found you," she whispered. She brought a hand to the side of Rei's neck, gently stroked her cheek with her thumb, as she closed her eyes and leaned in to rest her forehead on Rei's, "I just found you and I thought I was going to lose you."
"I'm not going anywhere," Rei whispered. She tilted her head up to kiss Minako's forehead reassuringly and pulled back to gently wipe Minako's tears away with her hand. As Minako opened her eyes, Rei brought her amethyst gaze back to those sapphires that she found so much pleasure in getting lost in, "I'm not going anywhere, Minako."
Minako smiled warmly at Rei, "Good," she whispered as she began to lean in to capture Rei's lips with her own.
"Ok!," Haruka said loudly, startling the two women and interrupting the moment they were having, "So, now that we've had dinner and a show, who wants to go danc-OW!," Haruka yelped. She reflexively grabbed and rubbed the sharp pain from her shin after receiving a strong kick under the table from Michiru, who appeared to be elegantly sipping her cup to tea.
Minako and Rei had become so lost in each other that they forgot they were still in the presence of their friends. Both women blushed deeply as they turned their heads sheepishly towards the table.
"Aww, Haru-chan!," Usagi whined as she slammed her hand onto the table in disappointment, "It was getting so good, too! They were probably about to kiss!"
"U-Usa-neechan! Mou!," Minako whined before burying her face into Rei's chest, trying to hide from embarrassment. Everyone at the table began laughing and giggling, breaking the earlier tension from Rei's stunt.
"Damn it, Haruka!," Rei exclaimed as she turned to glare at her best friend, who was back to wearing her tux.
"Haha! Sorry, guys!," Haruka chuckled as she raised her hands up innocently, "I just didn't want you to miss any of Setsuna's mixing, that's all!"
While Minako and Rei were lost in their own world, they didn't notice that the ballroom had been turned into what looked like a swanky nightclub. The house lights had been dimmed again and colorful, spiraling disco lights flashed around the room as a deep-sounding bass echoed throughout. Setsuna was back at a DJ booth, spinning popular tracks for the guests who had taken to the dance floor.
Minako's eyes lit up, "Wow, this is amazing!," she turned to Rei excitedly, "C'mon, Rei-chan, let's go dance!"
"Ara, not so fast, Mina-chan," Michiru called towards them. Rei and Minako turned to look questioningly at Michiru, "Before anything else, Hotaru needs to visit with her Rei-niichan."
"Yes, ma'aaam," Rei replied obediently, suddenly feeling very drained due to both exerting her abilities for her stunt and the adrenaline from it wearing off. She gently pulled away from Minako and flopped down in her chair. Minako took the teal sash from Rei's hand and put her hair back up into its signature look as she sat down in her chair and scooted it as close to Rei as possible. Hotaru quickly went to Rei, climbed up into her lap, and wrapped her small arms around her pale neck as Rei enveloped the small girl in her arms.
"Well we're going to go dance! We'll see you all out there!," Usagi exclaimed excitedly as she stood up and grabbed Mamoru by the arm, "C'mon, Mamo-chan, you promised you'd dance with me!" She quickly pulled him to his feet and dragged him onto the dance floor.
"U-Umm...M-Mizuno-san?," Makoto stuttered, a slight blush tinting her cheeks.
"Y-Yes?," Ami replied, timidly glancing at the chef.
"W-Would...Would you care to da-," Makoto began before a hotel staff member came up to the table and touched her lightly on the shoulder, "My apologies, Chef, but there's a matter in the kitchen for the scheduled event tomorrow that needs your attention."
"Ok...I'll be right there," Makoto sighed as she stood up, "Ladies, if you'll excuse me." Though Makoto addressed the table, she kept her eyes on Ami as she spoke. Ami looked away shyly and blushed. Minako and Michiru gave each other knowing glances as they watched the two women. Makoto turned and followed the hotel staff member towards the kitchen.
"That was so awesome, Rei-niichan!," Hotaru exclaimed as she hugged her 'adopted uncle' tightly.
"Thanks, Firefly," Rei replied warmly. She could already feel herself gaining her strength back from Hotaru's energetic, dark-purple aura, "But, you know," she said matter-of-factly to the young girl, "I wouldn't be as tired as I am now if it wasn't for your baka Haruka-papa not being confident in herself."
"Hey! What the-OW!," Haruka began indignantly before Michiru calmly reached over and grabbed her ear, jerking her closer.
"Ara, was Haruka not holding up her end of the deal and putting our Rei in danger by stressing her out more than necessary?," Michiru asked with a voice as calm as a placid lake.
"No! I was just-OW!," Haruka began but was jerked again by Michiru's unforgiving grip.
"There's no point in lying to her, Haruka," Rei said as she smirked at her best friend, "You know she can see auras and yours was definitely not infusing the way it should have been."
"Rei's right, honey," Michiru smiled sweetly at her beloved as Haruka writhed in pain, "I also saw some of Rei's aura blending in with yours before you shot the arrow, which means she was really exerting herself." She turned her gaze towards Rei, "Don't worry, Rei, I'll take care of Haruka tomorrow regarding this matter. I'll at least allow her to have our wedding night as a reprieve." She casually let go of Haruka's ear and the race car driver quickly retreated out of reach, rubbing her ear from pain.
"Thank you, Michiru," Rei replied with a satisfied smile, That should get her back for making Firefly come check up on me and Minako!
Wow...scary!, Minako and Ami thought simultaneously.
"Hino-san, so is that was happened to the arrow?," Ami asked, her scientific curiosity getting the best of her, "You infused it with both Michi-chan and Haru-san's auras?"
"Mmn," Rei replied casually, "In order for regular people to see spiritual colors, you have to spiritually 'burn' it on to something. That's why I chose a white arrow instead of a traditional bamboo arrow for the stunt. The ofuda I put on the arrow allowed it to become a receptacle so, when Haruka infused her aura with it, it became primed with her royal-blue aura. The ofuda I gave to Michiru embodies fire so, when it was primed with her teal aura, it created a fireball with the essence of her aura. Once Michiru's ofuda ignited, it became the catalyst that allowed the ofuda on the arrow to ignite and, in the process, take her aura into the arrow along with Haruka's and that's why you see both colors on there."
"Do you mind if I take a closer look, Michi-chan?," Ami asked as she pulled out her glasses.
"By all means," Michiru replied sweetly as she slid the arrow closer to Ami.
"Can I see it too?," Hotaru asked eagerly.
"Rei?," Michiru asked as she looked to the archer, concerned that she hadn't had enough time with her 'adopted niece'.
"I'm ok, Michiru," Rei replied with a nod, feeling much better than before. She gently lifted Hotaru off her lap and set her on the ground, "Go ahead, Firefly."
"Yay!," Hotaru exclaimed as she went to Haruka and climbed in her lap so she could lean over the table and look at the arrow more closely. The four of them quickly became engrossed in examining the arrow and conversing with each other, leaving Minako and Rei to themselves.
"Rei-chan, you're such a pyro," Minako teased.
"Well, yeah," Rei replied matter-of-factly, "I told you fire's my specialty, didn't I?," She smiled slyly as she leaned towards Minako and whispered seductively in her ear, "And, trust me, Minako, I really can't wait to play with your fire."
Minako's breath hitched at she felt Rei's warm breath tickle her neck, "You fucking tease," Minako breathed as she shook her head.
"Oh, on the contrary, Minako," Rei whispered huskily, "If you haven't noticed already, I always mean what I say."
"Isn't there a saying about playing with fire?," Minako whispered coyly.
"You've seen me with a flame, I know better than anyone how to tame a fire," Rei smirked confidently, "If anything, Minako," she purred sensually, "I'll probably be the one leaving you burning for more." She leaned back in her seat, dragging her tongue across her lips suggestively as she stared at Minako behind hooded eyes.
The thought of Rei's lips...her hands...her tongue...leaving burning trails all over her made every cell in Minako's body come alive,
Fuck...she's so hot!, was the only thought that came to Minako mind. She cleared her throat, trying to hide the fact that she was struggling to focus on anything but Rei's lips. A thought came to her and she smirked slyly, "Well, Hino-san, since it looks like you have your energy back now, maybe some dancing is in order?"
"Sounds good," Rei replied. As she was about to stand, Minako turned to Hotaru,
"Hey, Hotaru-chan," Minako said cheerfully, getting the young girl's attention, "Rei-niichan wants to go dancing. Can you take her for a spin to burn off some excess energy?"
"Yeah!," Hotaru replied excitedly. She slipped off of Haruka's lap and began tugging Rei's hand towards the dance floor, "C'mon, Rei-niichan!"
"Cheater," Rei whispered as she smirked and narrowed her eyes at Minako, who giggled and stuck her tongue out in reply. Rei turned to her 'adopted niece', "Alright, Firefly, I'm coming." As she stood up and followed Hotaru passed Haruka towards the dance floor, Rei grabbed Haruka firmly by the collar and dragged her to her feet, "Haruka-papa wants to come too."
"Wait, what!?," Haruka exclaimed.
"Yay!," Hotaru said, running back to grab one of Haruka's hands, "C'mon, Haruka-papa!"
Haruka sighed as she smiled at her 'adopted daughter', "Ok, ok, let's go," she said. The three went to the dance floor, leaving Minako, Michiru, and Ami at the table.
"Hey, Michi-chan?," Minako said, bringing her attention away from the dance floor and to her friend, "Ummm…I want to ask you about something, but I...I don't want to be rude," she said sheepishly.
"It's ok, Mina-chan," Michiru replied sweetly, "I had a pretty strong sense that you were a senshi but I wasn't totally sure until Rei started talking about the arrow and our abilities in front of you. What would you like to know?"
"Well," Minako began, "While we were upstairs, Rei-chan told me about how her mother saved your mother with a blood transfusion."
"Yes, Risa-obasan saved my and Okaasan's life," Michiru said as she smiled.
"Mmn, she also mentioned that you were working with a 'scientist-friend' in the States on...looking more into it or something," Minako continued. She looked to Ami, "I just assumed that 'friend' was you, Ami-chan. Hotaru-chan was the one who told us that you were a senshi also."
"U-Umm…," Ami said hesitantly as she looked towards Michiru, who smiled and nodded.
"It's fine, Ami-chan, you can tell her about it," Michiru replied, "Mina-chan should know since she's dating Rei now."
"M-Mmn," Ami replied with a nod. She turned to Minako, "Yes, Michi-chan has been providing me with blood and hair samples from herself as well as hair samples from Hino-san and her grandfather for a while now. I've been studying Hino-san's DNA since we started college."
"Wow, really!?," Minako exclaimed, "You've been studying her for that long!?"
"Mmn," Ami nodded, "It's been quite fascinating and groundbreaking."
"So...what have you found so far?," Minako asked curiously, "Rei-chan mentioned something about Michi-chan's hair color and the transfusion her mother got. Is that related?"
"Yes, it is," Michiru replied as she gracefully ran her hand through her wavy, turquoise hair, "That was actually one of the first things Ami-chan confirmed for me. Okaasan had blonde hair just like yours but, when Okaasan had the transfusion with Risa-obasan's blood, traits of her blue hair were infused into my genes and that's how I got my aqua hair."
"Mmn," Ami agreed, "It was quite amazing that her blood was able to do that just from a transfusion. When I did more research on their DNA, I was able to isolate and study the specific gene that expresses superhuman abilities. For the sake of ease, I just call it the Senshi gene and it appears to have a certain mutation that also causes it to have some parasitic characteristics."
"Wait, 'parasitic'?," Minako's eyes widened, "Is Rei-chan in danger?"
"Oh! No, no, not at all! Hino-san's fine! Very much so!," Ami reassured quickly, "What I meant by parasitic was that the gene is fairly dominant, but in a good way. The host or carrier of the gene doesn't experience any negative side effects, they're actually fairly normal in all ways and examinations except for certain special abilities, like Hino-san's and Michi-chan's ability to see auras or Michi-chan's intuition. But, when the gene leaves the host or carrier and is transmitted to another organism, say through a blood transfusion, it actually adapts to its surroundings and dominates. So, theoretically, while Michi-chan's mother was being healed, it altered Michi-chan's genes by attacking or dominating over the foreign genetics, namely Michi-chan's father's traits. You could say then that Michi-chan and Hino-san are technically half-sisters through Hino-san's mother."
"Whoa," Minako whispered in awe. She turned to Michiru, "So is that why you and Haruka call Rei-chan your 'sister', because she technically is?"
"No, we've been calling her that since we were little," Michiru replied, "When Risa-obasan passed away, I was only seven years old and too young to be able to repay her properly for what she did for me and Okaasan. So I made a promise to her that I would watch over Rei in her place."
"Mmn, I see," Minako replied with a nod. A realization came to her and her head shot back Ami, "Wait, Ami-chan, did you just say Michi-chan's mother was being healed by the transfusion!?"
"Yes," Ami replied excitedly, "That's another unique feature of the Senshi gene, it actually has really powerful healing traits when initially transplanted into a new organism. But, once it's adjusted to the organism and/or any perceived threat to the organism disappears, that trait disappears and the organism heals normally from then on. So, when Michi-chan's mother had the transfusion, it was this gene that saved her because it accelerated her healing process. If it was anyone else's blood, Michi-chan and her mother wouldn't have made it."
"Ami-chan theorizes that the Senshi gene does that in order to survive," Michiru chimed in, "So, theoretically, if I gave birth to a child, it would take on most, if not all, of my abilities and traits and pass the gene on. If I donated blood and someone who was injured or dying got the donation, the gene would cause the person to heal faster than a regular person and they would take on part of my abilities or have any natural abilities of their own enhances since it's not as direct a transfer as giving birth to a child. It's actually an ingenious genetic mutation of survival."
"Mmn," Ami agreed with a nod, "For someone like Michi-chan, though her abilities are off the charts for a regular person, she's actually fairly average for someone with any type of supernatural abilities. Hino-san, on other hand, is already off the charts for people with supernatural abilities. She's incredibly special."
Minako smiled at the last comment, "Mmn, she is special." She glanced over at the dance floor where Rei and Haruka were laughing and dancing with little Hotaru. Michiru smiled warmly as she saw the adoration in Minako's clear, sapphires as she watched her childhood friend.
"So, for someone like Hino-san," Ami continued eagerly, unable to help herself when it comes to scientific phenomenons, "If she were to give blood to someone, it could exponentially heal them or possibly even cure them of disease. I'm still doing research on that in particular, but I found that her Senshi gene in particular is so dominant that she doesn't even need to match the person's blood type to make it work since it can adapt to fit any organism. She's a true universal donor in the purest sense. For her mother, it just so happened that her blood type matched Michi-chan's mother's, but it's not a requirement for someone like Hino-san. So, theoretically, if it were Hino-san giving blood to someone like Michi-chan's mother, her Senshi gene would have cured her in a matter of hours or minutes, annihilated the foreign genetics, and replace them with her own. The child could then be considered Hino-san's biological child and would take on traits from the mother and Hino-san without any trace of the father."
"Gods...This all sounds...so unreal," Minako shook her head in disbelief, "But I know Ami-chan never lies when it comes to science so it must be true!"
"It is true," Ami replied excitedly. She quickly caught herself and turned serious, "But...you can't tell Hino-san about any of this, Mina-chan. Michi-chan and I agreed that we wouldn't share my research with anyone, not even Haru-san and especially not Hino-san."
"Wait, what? Why?," Minako asked with confusion, "Rei-chan seemed really excited about getting answers, especially since it's her DNA and all."
"Rei's been used enough, Mina-chan," Michiru replied. Her usual sweet tone held an uncharacteristic firmness in it, taking Minako by surprise, "I started this research with Ami-chan to get answers for myself and she agreed to help me so she could use the research as a basis to develop innovative methods to heal the seriously injured or drugs to cure various diseases. What I don't want is for Rei to become a lab-rat for the government or greedy corporations to test on. Rei, of all people, deserves a normal life. If anyone were to find out what she could do, who knows what would happen to her?" Her eyes narrowed, "Especially if her disgusting excuse of a father found out. He would probably be the first to try and patent her and sell her to the highest bidder."
Minako was shocked by Michiru's sudden change of character. She had never seen this side of the always elegant, graceful, and sweet violinist, "M-Mmn," Minako said hesitantly, "Rei-chan told me about her father."
"Did she tell you how he doesn't have a soul? How he's practically dead to the world?," Michiru asked icily.
"K-Kind of," Minako answered hesitantly, "But...isn't that a little harsh, Michi-chan?"
"The bastard doesn't have an aura," Michiru replied coldly.
"What!?," Michiru exclaimed in surprise, "No, she didn't tell me that! I thought everyone has an aura!"
"He's shut himself off from the world," Michiru replied evenly, "That's the one thing that can throw our abilities. You can't read someone who's basically an unfeeling corpse. All he cares about is work and money and he's shut down everything else." She pursed her lips, "Can you imagine, Mina-chan? Rei was only four when Risa-obasan passed away and he wasn't even there for the last year Risa-obasan was in the hospital on life-support. He didn't even come back for the funeral. He abandoned his only daughter, his flesh and blood, and now he's using her for his own profit! I was just starting off professionally and didn't have the means to help Rei at the time. Haruka's father didn't want to get involved since they were business partners so we both had to stand by and watch her ask that horrid man for help."
Minako knew Michiru believed that being anything other than calm and collected was beneath her. But, as she watched the elegant, aqua-haired woman, she noticed her hands were balled into fists and shaking ever so slightly. Her eyes mirrored that of the storming seas.
"Michi-chan…," Minako whispered.
"Michiru-mama?," a soft voice said with deep concern. Michiru was snapped out of her thoughts and turned to see Haruka and Hotaru standing next to her. Hotaru was pulling at her dress with her small hand, "Rei-niichan told me to come over and give you a hug because you were really sad I was gone for so long and you missed me."
Michiru looked towards Rei, who was standing towards the middle of the dance floor with her arms crossed in front of her. The archer half-smiled and winked at her childhood friend.
Michiru immediately relaxed and smiled warmly back. She looked down towards her 'adopted daughter', picked her up, and set her on her lap, "Yes, Hotaru," she said sweetly, "Michiru-mama feels much better now that you're here." She hugged Hotaru tightly as Haruka placed a concerned hand on Michiru's shoulder and leaned in to whisper in her ear,
"Rei said you aura was going haywire but she didn't want to make a scene if we all ran over here to check on you," Haruka explained. She straightened and smiled towards Minako,
"Hey, Mina-chan," she said, pointing her thumb behind her towards Rei, "Your date's waiting for you to show her some of your moves."
Minako looked to Michiru with concern in eyes, "But-"
"I'll be fine, Mina-chan," Michiru smiled in reply, "Go have fun. Just remember what I said, ok?"
"Mmn," Minako replied firmly with a nod. She looked towards Rei, who smirked as she unraveling her arms. Placing one hand on her hip, she brought her other hand up and pointed her finger at Minako. Turning her hand so it was palm-side up, she alternated between curling and straightening her finger playfully, signaling Minako to come to her. Minako smiled as she got up and walking towards the most beautiful woman on the dance floor.
Author Note: Whew! Did you get all that? I didn't realize how much information I packed into this scene when I originally wrote it until I was editing it this weekend. I find it amusing that Chapter 12 was shorter than I thought and I ended up adding more to it whereas this chapter is just...huge o.O
I can't tell you how many wedding details I combed through when it came to my wedding which, in the end, we scrapped the entire idea and basically eloped ^_^ Funny how things in life just come around full-circle because it really helped when I was writing this story! =D
From what I read, 'sha' is usually called out in Kyudo once an arrow hits a target. I decided to fudge the usage just for this story so forgive me! Citation below.
Kyudo. (n.d.). In Culture Japan. Retrieved September 10, 2013, from ?25877/Kyudo. (type "culture japan, kyudo - danny choo" into your search engine and it should be the first link)
Why that specific arrow? I was looking for one that was both lightweight and durable. Since Rei's supposed to be an archery ace, I'm pretty sure she'd think about those things when choosing an arrow to use for something like this, especially if it's going through what she did with it and she wants it to be a special gift to those important to her. I'm not an archer, but that's what came up in my research. ^_^
FYI, the 'traditional, zen archery technique' Rei performs...is totally made up =P:::
If you're unclear about anything, constructive feedback/reviews would be greatly appreciated!
(updated 09/2013)