Chapter 33: Hospitalization
*Snicker. Snicker Snicker* Had this chapter written in full two days after I released the last chapter. Just felt I had to make you guys wait at least for some length of time. In any case, I have two chapters of reviews to reply to! Sqweebs LOL, your character wasn't IN anything perverted! Did you go crazy? I was crazy once! Had my own room and everything! Then the worms came... I hate worms, they drive me crazy! Crazy? I was crazy once! Had my own room and everything... I 'm getting off subject... Holy Riot, I laughed so much at your comment about whether you call it lord or sage! And Sebzz…. 160. At the current rate of my reviews, and including what I already have, it will take about 160 chapters to top the Lucky Trilogy in reviews. *Sigh*... *Dart's Theme from Legend of Dragoon starts playing* Challenge Accepted! My new goal is to have the most reviews in the Lucky Star Section! ROAR! I can win, I feel great, I CAN DO THIS! YEAH~! ...If nothing else, I have a couple people who I think have promised to review every chapter, so it would take 394 chapters to get to my new goal... Mother of God. If I keep my rate of chapter length up for that duration, I would be writing more then three million more words. Three. Fucking. Million. What the hell am I going to write about for THAT long? Oh boy, I'm not sure if even I can come up with that much, I really WOULD be going into great-grandchildren... Not only that, but that's factoring in the beginning chapters where they were only like 3-4K words, at the current length, it will fall around four million. Four million words. Whew. This is crazy. Of course, that means that only two would be reviewing the entire time. So, every one person who reviews will bring me closer to my goal. Please help me everyone! Now, ON WITH THE SHOW!
POV Kagami
The pit in Kagami's stomach was no better. That was the first thing that went through Kagami's head. Now, Kagami realized she was at a shrine. She looked around to see her father, mother, and sisters, along with Miyuki, Tony, Sojiro, and Yutaka watching her attentively. She blushed at being in front of the crowd of people, but looked down to see she was in a very traditional kimono. She looked around to see a Shinto priest near her. It was then that Kagami realized exactly what was going on. She was at a wedding. Her wedding. She could hear ringing, what she guessed were bells, which were not usual for a Shinto wedding, but must have been the interjection of her betrothed. Speaking of which, exactly who was she marrying? She looked at where she knew her partner would be to see a small figure with short cobalt hair and emerald eyes. Kagami was confused. If she hadn't known better, she would have said this was Konata. The way this person walked, the lazy look in their excited eyes, the smile that was on their lips, the cute mole under her eye, all of it pointed to Konata except two things. First, same-sex marriage was illegal in Japan, and second, this person's hair was short. The person looked at Kagami reassuringly in a way that only Konata had ever been able to do. She and this person exchanged exchanged Sake, along with those members of the audience. As the priest read the vows, the person Kagami was betrothed to repeated them.
"This woman, I marry
No matter what the health situation is
I will love this person
Respect this person
Console this person
Help this person
Until death
Protecting fidelity
I swear." They said. Kagami blushed deeply. The priest turned to her and started her vows.
"This... man, I marry..." Kagami repeated what the person had said.
"Groom, Konako, you this woman marry and become her partner.
Will you in peaceful times, during sickness, this person love, this person respect, this person comfort, this person help, until death, do you promise to fulfill?" The priest asked. The groom flashed a cat grin to Kagami.
"Yes, I promise." They said.
"Bride, Kagami, you this man marry and become his partner.
Will you in peaceful times, during sickness, this person love, this person respect, this person comfort, this person help, until death, do you promise to fulfill?" The priest asked. Kagami looked the person she was to marry in the eyes. She could only feel that this had to be Konata. This is mind, she continued.
"Yes, I promise." She said. The two offered Sakaki twigs to their Kami. As they completed the ceremony, the two welcomed guests to the reception. Once they were no longer the center of attention, the groom turned to their wife.
"Sure fooled 'em, didn't we Kagami?" They catgrinned. "It's official. All those times I called you my wife, now I can legally do it."
"Konata?" Kagami asked.
"Who did you think it was?" Konata catgrinned.
"I wasn't sure, your hair is so short... You've never cut your hair, not even to keep it at a certain length! I thought your hair was really really important to you..." Kagami commented. Konata smiled warmly.
"It was the only way I could pass as a boy. Besides, that will grow back, and you're so much more important than some hair." Konata smiled. Kagami smiled.
"Thank you." She smiled.
"My pleasure." Konata smiled back. And all was bliss. Until...
Kagami woke up and sat up. Her stomach wasn't much better, it was like a nagging feeling in the pit of her abdomen. Something was wrong. She didn't know what, but something was very, very wrong. She looked around to see if it was something in the room, but other than the soft breathing of the small Otaku over the side of her bed, she couldn't find anything. Normally, Kagami would giggle at Konata's cuteness, but today she needed to find out what was going on. She sat up.
"Kona?" Kagami reluctantly woke her love. The way she figured it, Konata would know better than anyone if something were wrong with the room. Kagami had to call the Otaku a few more times before she stirred to consciousness, but she woke all the same.
"Hey Kagamin, are you okay?" Konata asked the instant she sat up. Kagami, despite her stomach, felt herself smiling.
"Kona, is there anything wrong around here?" Kagami asked. Konata looked around the room.
"Not that I can see. Why?" Konata asked.
"Well, that feeling in my stomach isn't any better, it feels like it's telling me that something's wrong." Kagami said. Konata hummed.
"Any hints?" Konata asked.
"This isn't a joke, something's going on and I want to know what!" Kagami whipped the blanket off of her and jumped out of bed. She remembered that she had ended up sleeping in her yukata as she almost tripped. She would have if Konata hadn't appeared in front of Kagami and caught her.
"Whoa, easy there girl, you're not gonna find out anything if you hit your head and get sent to the hospital." Konata scolded, surprising Kagami for the umpteenth time that day. Konata was usually the one on the receiving end of the scolding, not the giving end.
"You're right Kona, sorry." Kagami righted herself. "I'm gonna call the house and see if anything's wrong there." She pulled out her cellphone. She went to the dialing pad, missing the call she had missed while she slept. She dialed her house, but it rang out. She sighed and ended the call. She noticed the missed call and looked at it.
"Hospital." It read. All color faded from her, alarming Konata.
"Kagami, what's wrong?" She asked.
"I got a call from the hospital." Kagami muttered, started the voicemail they had left.
"This is Dr. Zimmerman calling to inform you that two of your family members have been in an accident. One is conscious, we would like if you come to her and comfort her." The message said. Kagami was surprised at how different the message was from how she would have expected it. It then dawned on her exactly what he had said. "Please come to Umehara Hospital at your earliest convenience." The message ended. Kagami was trembling.
"Kagami, maybe you need to lay down..." Konata suggested, seeing the shaking Tsundere. Kagami was snapped out of the trance she was in, already knowing who had been in an accident. She ran out of the room, Konata at her heels.
"I need a ride to the hospital!" She shouted. She looked over at the computer to see Sojiro, asleep in his chair. "Didn't you hear me?" She shouted, running up and shaking him, but not getting any response.
"Kagami! He's exhausted, he was up for a couple days! You're not gonna be able to wake him!" Konata shouted, pulling Kagami away. "Calm down and tell me what happened!" Konata said sternly.
"Tsukasa and Mom got in an accident!" Kagami said, tears in her eyes. Konata looked as if she'd been struck. Still, she kept her head.
I have to get Kagami there quickly! Um... Konata wracked her brain. And Tony has to kno... That's it! She thought. "Kagami just keep calm, I know how to get us there." Konata said.
"How?" Kagami asked, clearly failing her request.
"Just a minute." Konata pulled out her cellphone and clicked the "2" button.
"Kon-kon?" Tony asked as he picked up. He was quite apparently happy. Konata hated to crush him like this, but he had to know.
"Tony, I need you over at my house ASAP." She said and hung up. She didn't do it to be rude, but the action would punctuate the importance of what she said. They waited a moment and Tony suddenly spun into sight in the hallway, a bag in his hand.
"What's going on Konata?" Tony asked, noticing the grave and distraught face Kagami had. "What's wrong?"
"Tsukasa and Mom had an accident on the way home." Kagami said, knowing Konata might not be able to tell Tony. She could see why as Tony's expression changed. In his mind, everything was suddenly dark. Words failed to describe the feeling of horror he felt.
"Hospital..." He muttered.
"Umehara." Kagami said. Tony suddenly shot towards them, and grabbed hold of them. Kagami and Konata grabbed him, thinking he was in need of comfort, but suddenly, they felt Tony twist away from them, causing them to re-doubled their grip. The next thing they knew, everything went black; they were pressed very hard from all directions; they couldn't breathe, it was like there were iron bands tightening around their chests; their eyeballs were being forced back into their head; their ear-drums were being pushed deeper into their skull. Suddenly, as quickly as the sensations had overtaken their senses, it was gone. They looked around, both feeling sick to their stomach, and realized people were looking at them. Tony was white as a ghost while he ate some red substance that had the texture of a mix between a jelly bean and melted gummy bears. Konata realized what happened then.
"We just apparated, didn't we?" She asked Tony.
"Yes, and quite successfully too, I might add. I threw up the first time." Tony pushed himself up. "Come on, we have to go see Tsukasa." He said.
"I'm surprised you aren't more tired." Konata said. Tony held up the bag he had.
"Dengen. Amazing stuff, it is. I'll explain later." He said, attaching the bag to a belt Konata and Kagami hadn't noticed he was wearing. "We HAVE to go see Tsukasa!" He shouted.
"Hiiragi?" He heard a familiar voice behind him. He turned to see his doctor.
"Yeah! Where is she?" Tony shouted. Zimmerman didn't flinch.
"Volume, we don't want you disturbing the other patients." He said. "This way." He turned and started walking. Tony, Konata, and Kagami all followed impatiently. Tony and Kagami wanted to shout for him to hurry up, but they both knew that the action would only cause him to stop to scold them and make it take longer to get there, so they held their tongue. They eventually stopped. "She's in here." He said. Tony burst into the room to see Tsukasa with an oxygen mask on. His knees almost gave out, even with the energy food he was eating. He walked over with large tears akin to Kagami and Konata's in his eyes, completely ignoring Inori sitting next to her sister.
"Tsukasa..." He muttered. She looked so vulnerable.
"She's been in a coma since the accident, the car hit her side." Zimmerman explained. "There's always the possibility that she'll wake up soon however, as the damage wasn't too extensive. The main part of the brain that's damaged is the part that retains consciousness. She's extremely fortunate that she didn't take more damage to the brain, the only other bit that sustained any substantial damage was the part that told her cells how to duplicate themselves. That's a bit more serious, as her injuries won't heal properly until that part of her brain heals. If those parts can repair themselves, she should regain consciousness and be fine with rest." Zimmerman explained.
"Is there nothing you can do to help more?" Kagami asked.
"We're doing all medical science can, however, the brain is still a mysterious organ that we can't fully understand. I was surprised we could diagnose as much as we did." Zimmerman sighed. Meanwhile, Tony checked his energy reserves to see he was back at full energy. He breathed deep and touched her arm, thinking of something he had read in a story once. He used his mind to survey the damage to Tsukasa's body. He searched the air around them for energy he would need. Despair took him. Even with his energy reserves and the energy in the air around them, he still didn't have the energy to heal Tsukasa. If he took anywhere near enough energy from the air, even if it were around the entire hospital, the whole place might as well be cryogenically frozen from the amount of energy it would take. In desperation, he thought of the possible energy he could take from the other living beings in the vicinity. He had a feeling this would be enough if he took everything he could, but would so many people make such a sacrifice for an uncertain result? He tried to think of the problem. Whenever he used energy, some of the power was lost when he extended the energy through his arms from the well, for lack of a better word, that seemed to be inside him. It was that little bit that made it so that he couldn't heal her. If only he could find a way to eliminate that issue, Tsukasa might once again awaken! But how... Right now though, he had to know if what the doctor said about her condition was true. He looked over at Zimmerman and shrouded his thoughts. He crept into the doctors mind, not caring if it was ethical or not, and gleaned what he could. All he could feel from the doctor was hopelessness and Tony understood in full what was happening. There was no way, no words that Tony could use or think of to describe the feeling as he could piece together what the doctor was thinking. All hope for this girl was gone. Inori got up and crept over to her sister.
"Hey, what's he doing?" She asked.
"Probably trying to see if he can heal her. I hope he can..." Kagami mumbled.
"Tony?" Konata asked. Tony was brought from his daze and shook his head.
"I don't have the energy..." He sighed. "There's nothing that can be done here. I understand if you two want to go see Kagami's mother. But I want to stay with Tsukasa." He said.
"I understand. She's in good hands." Kagami said. "Where's my mom?" She asked Zimmerman. He looked at a clipboard.
"I'd rather not leave Tsukasa alone..." Inori said.
"I can look after her." Tony said.
"I know you can and will, but if it's okay, I wanna be here. Hopefully she'll wake up." Inori said. Tony nodded without looking up.
"As you wish."
"Miki Hiiragi?" He asked.
"Yeah." Kagami nodded.
"This way." He walked off. Kagami and Konata followed. Tony looked after them, then looked at Tsukasa. Finally, despite his company, he let his tears fall.
Why? Why did this have to happen now? He cried. He collapsed in the chair next to the bed and put his head in his hands and wept. He stayed that way for a time, whatever time passed was passed without change or recognition. Eventually, after what seemed innumerable eternities had passed, Tony looked up to see that a mere five minutes had passed. Amazingly enough, he saw Inori with her hand on his shoulder.
"She's gonna be okay. Don't worry." Inori smiled comfortingly. Tony felt an amount better, but not a large amount.
"Thanks. Yeah, I've just gotta stay positive..." Tony said. He got up from the chair and gave it to Inori and sat on the couch that had been placed in the room.
"You really do love her, don't you?" Inori asked, a smile on her face. She was a bit sad at the fact that the youngest Hiiragi had found love first, but much happier for the same reason. Tony sighed and smiled.
"More than anything. If I could trade places with her, I would in a heartbeat." Tony said truthfully. Inori's smile widened.
"I'm glad." She said. Tony smiled.
"Please, would you mind if I remained silent for a time?" Tony asked.
"What for?" Inori asked.
"I have to find a way to get Tsukasa back. I don't have near the energy to heal her, so I need to start thinking of what the problem is and how to solve it." Tony said.
"Ah. Isn't the problem that Tsukasa's in a coma?" Inori asked. Tony sighed.
"Yes, that is one problem, but I meant a different problem altogether." Tony said. I have to think of something... He thought.
"Can I help?" Inori asked.
"I don't think so. Thank you for offering, I'll let you know if you can do anything. For now, however, all I need is silence." Tony said. He waited a moment, but Inori smiled, nodded, and looked to Tsukasa. Tony started wracking his brain until an idea struck him. I don't have the energy, but he does. He put his hands together. "Hachi Style: God Seal Release." He muttered. Hachiman entered his mind.
Kid? What's wrong? He asked.
Tsukasa's in the hospital. I need your help! I don't have the energy to heal her! Tony said. He got the impression of a sigh from the god.
Kid, I'm sorry, but I can't be the solution to every problem. I can answer questions, but I can't make your life perfect. Hachiman said. Tony was appalled at the response and made no attempt to hide it.
How can you turn your back on her? He shouted in frustration. Suddenly, an odd sensation of understanding anger came from Hachiman.
Listen, I can't just fix every problem! This may sound heartless to you, but what makes Tsukasa more important than cancer patients, or people who are guaranteed to die? I know this is hard for you, but if I solve everything for you, I should have to do it for everyone, and even I don't have the energy to do that, nor would I solve everything if I did. Hachiman said. Tony, while angry, tried to think of some form of argument. He had to admit, the god made sense.
Why wouldn't you? He asked. The feeling of anger flared a bit as Tony heard wind pick up outside the building. Hachiman's voice boomed in his head in such a voice, Tony knew that thunder itself would seem tame by measure of volume.
I will answer YOUR question once you have answered MINE! Were you there when the foundation of Earth was laid? Tell me if you were! WHO determined it's measurements, I'm sure you know! Who stretched the line upon it? Where were you when all of this was decided? Hachiman asked. Tony was completely speechless. It was an instant before Hachiman continued. Who are you to question the decisions made when you don't truly understand the question in the first place? Hachiman growled. There was a solid minute where not only did neither say anything to the other, but Tony realized he couldn't. The only thing he could feel was an overwhelming sense of humility. He regained his functions after a moment and closed his eyes, bowing his head as a sign of submission.
My apologies. Your decisions are not mine to question. Tony sighed. Tony got a sensation of satisfaction and a small amount of guilt.
I feel I must apologize as well. I let anger get the better of me. I have to go, but I will offer this. Think of Recoome. Hachiman said before his presence disappeared. Tony felt empty.
Recoome? What does he have to do with it? He sighed. He looked to Tsukasa and felt a new sense of determination. Recoome. Okay, it's time to figure this out. Tony thought with passion. He got into a meditative pose and began thinking the hardest he had in the entirety of his life. He would figure this puzzle out if it was the last action he preformed.
POV Kagami
Kagami and Konata followed Dr. Zimmerman. They got to a room not far from Tsukasa's, where Zimmerman stopped again.
"Here she is." He said. Kagami and Konata walked into the room to see Miki sitting up in the bed with Tadao and Matsuri by her bedside. The lot of them turned to the couple.
"Imoto, you're late! You shoulda been here hours ago!" Matsuri shouted. Miki reached out and put her hand on Matsuri's shoulder.
"She was asleep." Miki said. "It's okay Kagami, I understand."
"Mom... Are you okay?" Kagami asked, tears yet again forming in her eyes.
"Yeah, don't worry Kagami." Miki smiled, though Kagami could tell the action pained her.
"Are you gonna be alright?" Konata asked. Kagami heard a sorrow in Konata's voice that seemed almost if not as deep as her own. She hadn't realized how close Konata apparently was to Miki.
I guess I can understand... Kagami thought, thinking of Konata's unfortunate history with her mother, or lack thereof.
"Don't worry, I'll be fine. It's Tsukasa I'm worried about." Miki said. "I wish it had been me." She sighed.
"I wish it hadn't been either of you!" Kagami shouted.
"I know baby, I know." Miki smiled to her child. She seemed to be studying Kagami now that Konata was close.
"Mom, why did this have to happen..." Kagami's tears, though she was trying to hold them back, were now flowing down her cheeks. Suddenly, Konata put her hand on Kagami's shoulder. Kagami instantly turned and started crying on Konata's shoulder. Konata was surprised for an instant, but hugged Kagami and rubbed her back soothingly.
"Get it out Imoto..." Matsuri smiled. Tadao looked between the two for an instant and seemed to start thinking. Kagami was crying for a moment, then did her best to regain control of her body, and smiled appreciatively at the Otaku. She broke the hug and looked in her family's direction. It was Miki she was concentrating on.
"Hey guys, I wanna talk to Mom." Kagami said. "Ya know, alone." She said. Matsuri, Tadao, and Konata all exchanged looks.
"Honey?" Tadao looked at his wife. Miki nodded.
"It's alright." She said. Tadao looked around and got up, as did Matsuri. The three left the room, leaving Kagami and Miki alone.
"Mom... I wanna talk with you about something..." Kagami blushed. Miki smiled comfortingly.
"I thought you might. Come sit down." She gestured to a chair next to her bed. Kagami complied and sat down.
"Mom, I... I think I..." Kagami's throat caught up. She wasn't sure how her mother would react to what she was about to say. But she felt that if anyone would understand her feelings, it would be her mother. Suddenly, there was a thump at the door.
"No eavesdropping!" She heard Konata shout. Kagami giggled and felt truly appreciative for Konata looking out for her.
"Go on." Miki said.
"Mom, I'm in love." Kagami blurted out before she had time to think about it, but quietly enough that no one outside the room would hear. Miki smiled and sighed.
"With Konata." Miki finished. Kagami gasped and blushed in fear.
"You know?" Kagami asked. "How could you..." Kagami mumbled. Miki smiled.
"Your eyes are the eyes of a woman in love. Oh, how they give you away. Why try to deny you're a woman in love, when I know very well what I say." Miki said. Kagami was a bit stunned.
"And...?" Kagami asked.
"I accept you Kagami. I love you." Miki said. A great pressure lifted off of Kagami's chest. She hugged her mother in her joy.
"Thank you so much Mom, I was so afraid." She mumbled in unfathomable appreciation from her mother.
"It's okay Kagami, it's okay." Miki patted her daughter's back and smiled through the pain she was in from her injuries. "But that isn't the end of it." Miki said. Kagami broke the hug and sighed.
"I know. There's still Dad." Kagami sighed. "Do you think you could help with that?" She asked her mother. Miki sighed.
"I don't know that I can." She mumbled. She looked to her daughter in sorrow.
"Velvet I can wish you,
For the collar of your coat
And fortune smiling all along your way~
But more, I can not wish you
Than to wish you find your love
Your own true love this day~." Miki softly sang to Kagami in a soothing voice despite her words. She knew her singing could usually calm Kagami as it always had when she was young.
"Mansions I can wish you
Seven footmen all in red
And calling cards upon a silver tray.
But more, I can not wish you
Than to wish you find your love
Your own true love this day~." She reached up and rubbed Kagami's cheek soothingly, making Kagami lean into it and yawn slightly.
"Here you are,
Sitting right here,
Full of the bloom~ of youth,
Standing there
Gazing at you
With a cat's grin
And though a bit uncouth." Miki sang, Kagami giggling sleepily at the accurate description of Konata her mother provided.
"Music I can wish you
Merry music while you're young
And wisdom when your hair has turned to gray~.
But more, I can not wish you
Than to wish you find your love
Your own true love this day
With a cat's~ grin~
And though a bit uncouth,
And strong arms
To carry you~... away~." She finished as Kagami fell completely asleep. She leaned Kagami onto the side of her bed and kissed her on the forehead. "You can come back in." Miki called only loud enough so that the three outside could hear. They walked back in and the first thing Miki noticed was the lump on Matsuri's head. Seeing the mother looking at it, Konata chuckled.
"She tried to listen in." Konata said as she walked over to see Kagami. The look of peaceful content on Kagami's face brought a smile to Konata's. "You have to tell me how you did that." Konata smiled to Miki.
"It's a mother's secret." She winked. "I'm tired now though, I think I'll take a nap too." Miki yawned.
"Okay dear, I'll be here when you wake up." Tadao said, putting a hand on her shoulder. Konata cringed slightly at the man she thought she had known.
"I'm gonna go see Kan-kan and see how he's holding up." Konata said as she turned.
"Ah, mister Kan-chan is here? Let's go see how he's doing." Matsuri smirked. The two of them left the room. "So, anything new?" Matsuri asked.
"Kan-kan confessed to Tsukasa. Long story short, they're together now." Konata said. Matsuri smiled.
"I'm glad, I was about to tie him up and let her kiss him." Matsuri giggled. "It's only too bad this had to happen NOW of all times..." She sighed. Konata's phone started to ring.
"Hello?" She asked.
"Konata? Do you know where Otōto is?" Masutā asked. She could hear machinery in the back.
"Yeah. Tsukasa got in an accident, he's here visiting her." Konata said.
"She okay?" Masutā asked.
"She's in a coma." Konata said gravely. There was a moment in which Konata could hear Masutā shouting something.
"Damn, my boss isn't letting me off since it's my first day. Tell him where I am if he wants to talk." Masutā said and told Konata of where he now worked.
"Will do." Konata said. "Wait, how did you get my number?" Konata asked.
"I have a friend. He has all the numbers." Masutā said nonchalantly.
"Oh... Well... Thanks." She said before they said their goodbyes and hung up. They arrived back at the room and opened the door to see Tony meditating.
"Hey lover boy, how you holdin' up?" Matsuri asked, bringing Tony from his trance.
"Thinking of any way I can help Tsukasa." Tony said, only opening one eye to address the Hiiragi. "I haven't the energy to heal her." Tony said.
"Hey, maybe Hachiman can help." Konata chuckled, remembering how the god had healed Tony with such ease. Tony shook his head.
"He's already denied it of me." He said spitefully. He got up. "I'm sorry, but I need to take a walk." Tony said.
"Your brother's at-" And Konata told him.
"Thanks." Tony walked out. He walked and started quickening his pace. It just seemed so unfair! Finally, FINALLY he had been happy! The happiest he had EVER been! Why? Why? He realized he had long since broken into a run. He was nearing the place his brother was, feeling a morbid luck that he had gotten there without paying attention to where he had been going. He got there and walked up to the construction zone to see Masutā with a massive iron beam on his shoulder and walking slowly. Damn... Tony thought. The beam looked at least a hundred kilos. And by the looks of it, the only reason Masutā was walking so slow was to make sure he didn't hit anyone or anything. Tony sighed as he walked up. Masutā looked over and dropped the beam with a large thud.
"Otōto, I'm so sorry." He ran over and brought Tony into a rough hug. "Cry kid, there's no shame." This was an extreme rarity and Tony couldn't help it any longer. He broke.
"Aniki, I don't get it! I had it! I had happiness! Why did this have to happen? Why does it have to hurt so much? I've seen people die before. Mom. Dad. Sarnia. They died and I didn't hurt this badly... Why? I've never felt this much pain." He mumbled. Masutā patted his back and broke the hug, looking Tony in the face.
"It's because you truly love her." Masutā said. Tony tore away and walked a few steps.
"The hell does that mean... The hell does that matter?" He spun around and looked at Masutā for answers. When he provided none, Tony continued. "What good does it do if every time I fall in love, she dies? What's the point? WHAT'S THE DAMN POINT?" He shouted at such a volume, the sheer intensity of the yell and energy put into it started shaking the building that was being constructed. He had to suppress the urge to punch the ground, for the minuscule amount of reason still in his mind told him that the ground would yield before he would and end up hindering his brother's work. Masutā, however, never flinched, even when Tony yelled loud enough to cause every worker in the area to double over.
"Look Tony, all I know is what I've learned in my time on this earth. There are certain rules about life. And rule number one is loved ones die. And rule number two is... no one can change rule number one." Masutā said. Tony turned back to him in fury.
"But someone can change it! Hachiman could! He refused though! How could he not help her?" Tony shouted trembling in the might of his fury.
"Otōto... The gods allow us to experience the low points of life in order to teach us lessons we could not learn in any other way. The way we learn those lessons is not to deny the feelings but to find the meanings underlying them." Masutā said. Tony blinked a few times. He sighed and let himself ease.
"You're right..." Tony sighed. "I'm an idiot. I need to go see her again." He said, hoping against hope he could somehow help his love. "Thank you Aniki." He smiled to his brother. "Tsukasa once said I was wise. Obviously she hasn't spent enough time with you if she still thinks that." Tony smiled. Masutā smiled.
"You can be wise sometimes Otōto, but you're a complete idiot when it comes to love. You just need more experience in that department." Masutā smiled. Tony sighed.
"Thank you for your advice." Tony bowed. "I have a question I need you to help me think on though." Tony said.
"Go for it." Masutā said.
"When I asked Hachiman for help, he did give me a small bit of information." Tony said.
"What was it?" Masutā asked.
"Think of Recoome." Tony repeated. Masutā got a confused look.
"Think of Recoome?" He asked.
"Yeah. Could you maybe try and think of what he meant?" Tony asked.
"No problem Otōto, I'll try and figure it out as long as you do the same." Masutā said.
"Thank you again Aniki." Tony bowed.
"I'm glad I could help." Masutā smiled again. Suddenly, the vision of Tony spun in on itself and he was gone. Masutā blinked a time or two before he realized what had just happened. "Damn Otōto, that was pretty beast..." He commented as he picked up the beam again and returned to work.
Tony spun out into sight in the very room that housed Tsukasa, scaring the three girls that were waiting by Tsukasa's bed. He looked at Tsukasa and walked up to her.
"I'm sorry I left you Tsu-" He was cut off as a hand came across his face.
"I thought you loved her!" Matsuri shouted. Tony spun to her and glared.
"Of course I do! How can you doubt that, I'm here, aren't I?" Tony shouted back.
"You left! What would we have done if Tsukasa had waken up and asked for you? "Sorry, he had to walk"? If you love her, you've got to stay with her, talk her out of this!" Matsuri shouted. Tony, while he was angry that she was apparently insulting his love, something he said he wouldn't tolerate, he also knew she was right.
"Matsuri, calm down!" Inori came over and grabbed her sister by the shoulders. Tony heard an edge of nervousness in her voice that told him she wasn't just scolding her sister for being hotheaded. He looked past them to see Konata had shifted in her seat. Apparently, Kagami had told them of Konata's prowess, when is anyone's guess. Matsuri looked at Tony sighed.
"Look. You say you love her. And I KNOW she loves you. If she's gonna wake up for anyone, it's gonna be you. Please... just stay with her? Please?" Matsuri asked meekly. Tony was glad he had held his tongue. Matsuri was only looking out for her sister. He could definitely respect that. And he would definitely appreciate it if anyone else tried to insult Tsukasa while he wasn't around.
"..." Tony thought hard about what he was about to say. He blushed slightly. "Gimai-san, I apologize for my ignorance. From now on, I promise to think only of Tsukasa." He bowed. The three other girls had to take a step back to steady themselves as Tony just called Matsuri his sister-in-law, and that was not something done lightly. Konata burst into laughter, but quieted herself as soon as she could.
"That was a big step you just took Kan-kan!" Konata giggled. Matsuri, however, looked like she was thinking.
"Tony, I honestly hope you can actually call me that someday." She smiled. Her voice took a turn for the stern. "Just not today."
"Understood." Tony bowed again. "My brother was correct in saying I'm an idiot when it comes to these types of things." He sighed.
"S'alright. Just don't leave again unless you need to. I want Tsukasa to wake up as soon as possible, and that's gonna happen by you being here with her." Matsuri smiled. She sat down again, as did Inori. Tony remembered his dilemma.
"Hey, you all saw the fight with Recoome, right?" Tony asked.
"Of course." Konata answered. Matsuri and Inori also spoke to the affirmative.
"I want you think help me figure something out." Tony said. "A sort of riddle I was given that may help Tsukasa." Tony said.
"What is it? What is it?" Inori asked as the three girls leaned forward.
"I was told "Think of Recoome". That's all I was given, I've been trying to figure out what they meant by it." Tony said.
"I'll think about it..." Konata said.
"So will I, if it'll help Tsukasa." Matsuri said.
"Same same." Inori said. Tony smiled.
"Thanks." Tony said.
"No problem. In the mean time, why not try talking to Tsukasa?" Matsuri suggested.
"About what?" Tony asked.
"Doesn't matter! It's your voice that does the trick mostly. If the two of you have something sentimental between you, something romantic you two normally say to each other, that would have more of an effect than telling her the weather though." Matsuri explained.
"Alright." Tony walked over and sat next to Tsukasa. He took her hand in his hand, noting how cold her hands felt. It brought a sorrow to his mood. "Hey Tsu-chan. It's me, Kan-kun." He said a bit awkwardly. "Um..." He mumbled. For what did you say to someone in a coma? He decided he would get to the point. "Tsu-chan. Please come back to me." His voice cracked. "I've only been half a day without hearing your voice, and it's tearing at me! I miss you already, I can't even begin to tell you. Please Tsu-chan. I love you." He said. Tsukasa's sisters gasped in surprise, even if they had known his feelings, what Tony had just said was also not something said lightly. Tony thought he saw her stir for a moment, but dismissed it as his eyes playing a cruel trick on him after she made no more movement for a full five minutes. Tony sighed and sat back in the chair, but never let go of Tsukasa's hand. He started thinking of what Hachiman had told him.
POV Konata
Konata looked at Tony as he sat back. His breathing slowed, Tsukasa's hand still in his, and she knew he had fallen asleep.
"I'm gonna go check on Mom, would you mind watching Tsukasa for a while Matsuri?" Inori asked.
"Sure thing." Matsuri smiled.
"Can I come?" Konata asked.
"If you want." Inori smiled to Konata.
"Thanks. Let's go." Konata got up with Inori and walked out of the room. Matsuri looked over at Tsukasa and Tony, still holding hands.
Imoto, you picked one hell of a guy. She smiled as she yawned. She had been up for most of the previous night; the hospital had called late at night. If she hadn't gone to sleep early because of her stomach, she wouldn't have gotten any sleep at all. She laid down on the couch and fell asleep soon.
Konata was face to face with probably the person she least wanted to see.
"Misakichi." Konata said challengingly.
"Chibi, I'm not here to pick a fight. I just want to see Imoto." Misao put both hand up by her head as a sign of submission. Konata eased a little.
"Oh, I didn't know you cared much for Tsukasa." Konata said.
"'Course I do, I just called her Imoto, didn't I?" Misao asked. Konata huffed a humorless laugh.
"That's cool. I'm glad." Konata smiled.
"Besides, how could anyone NOT like her?" Misao laughed. Konata followed suit.
"I know right, she's so damn cute!" Konata said. Misao laughed a bit harder.
"I know, it's hardly fair for me! I've got nothin'!" Misao said. "I'm surprised to hear ya say that Cheebs, I thought I was the only one who could say a girl was cute!" She said.
"Come on now, anyone can call anyone cute! And speaking of which, you've got moe features!" Konata pointed out.
"Oh? Like what?" Misao challenged playfully.
"Like that fang." Konata pointed out. Misao looked down as if she would be able to see what Konata was pointing at. "I have nothing!"
"Not true!" Misao protested. Konata raised an eyebrow.
"Whatchu talkin' bout Misao?" Konata asked, using Misao's name for the sake of the reference.
"Well, being small isn't necessarily a BAD thing, there are plenty of people who like that! Besides that, you've already got your choice of any Otaku guy on earth basically!" Misao said. Konata smiled.
"Misakichi, you really aren't like your brother, are you?" Konata asked. Misao raised an eyebrow, looking confused.
"You've met him?" Misao asked.
"Yeah, he use to pick on my all the time." Konata scowled. Misao gasped a bit.
"My god, I'm sorry Chibi!" She said. "No wonder you took such an instant dislike to me! No way Chibi, I hate that asshole. I wanna crack his head in with a six pound lead pipe..." Misao commented. Konata chuckled.
"I'd take a four pounder and switchblade if you would." Konata smiled.
"Actually, that's not necessary anymore! I dunno what happened, but he's here. They say he'll never be able to move as much as he use to be able to. Great, since he isn't going to be doing anything too bad anymore." Misao smiled. "It makes a good excuse to be here so I can visit Imoto and her mother."
"Yeah, that was my brother! The guy who stopped our fight last time." Konata said.
"Oh yeah, him! Thank him for me, he didn't do anything I didn't wish I could do myself. By the way, that reminds me..." Misao trailed off.
"What's up Misakichi?" Konata asked. She, however, was no longer using the nickname as a derogatory one, but with a kind of affection.
"Hiiragin guilted me into promising me this, but now I legitimately want to. Can we bury the hatchet and try being friends?" Misao put her hand out. Konata looked at the hand and smiled. She shook it.
"My pleasure." She smiled at Misao. Misao smiled.
"Kinda sucks a little bit, I had a couple shots I still had to get atcha Cheebs." Misao giggled. Konata smiled.
"Hey, I poke fun at everyone already, there's no reason you can't! Just one thing." Konata said.
"Yes?" Misao asked.
"Don't take offense to anything I say, I don't mean anything real by it." Konata smiled.
"Same same Chibi. I'll still have to get ya a couple times." Misao smiled.
"Hey, we should put one over on Kagamin and pretend to hate each other." Konata giggled.
"Yeah! Only around Hiiragin though, right?" Misao asked.
"You catch on fast." Konata smiled.
"Well, I'm not just another pretty face." Misao posed a bit.
"You're definitely not just another pretty face." Konata commented. Misao looked at her, but the Otaku winked. Misao giggled.
"That's the kind of stuff I'm talkin' about. Sure thing, I'm in Chibi!" Misao smiled.
"Alrighty. I'm actually on my way to see Kagamin and her Mom, wanna come with?" Konata offered. Misao shook her head.
"Nah, I saw them already, I wanted to see Imoto. But thanks anyway!" Misao waved as she opened the door.
"Well then, I hope to see ya later Misakichi!" Konata waved as she and Inori started walking off.
"Ditto Chibi!" Misao walked into the room. Konata and Inori kept walking. Konata chuckled to herself.
"That was cool." Konata smiled.
"I didn't get to say much there." Inori chuckled. "That took, like, twenty minutes. I was a little worried we'd never go!" Inori laughed.
"Well I never really go along with Misakichi, but we have a lot in common!" Konata smiled widely at having a new friend. She sighed in happiness before turning the subject away from the current topic. "I'm surprised you guys aren't freaking out more. I know I would be if Dad and Yu-chan got in an accident..." Konata commented.
"We tried to get out most of freaking out over with last night. Now we're just trying to keep a strong front for you, Kagami, and Tony. I know this is hard on you three." Inori commented.
"Yeah..." She sighed. They got to the room housing Miki and walked in to see Kagami yawning and stretching.
"Have a good nap Kagami?" Miki asked, having woken up just a moment earlier.
"Yeah. Thanks Mom." Kagami said. Miki knew her daughter wasn't talking about the question of her nap. She smiled and nodded.
"You're welcome Kagami." Miki smiled. Kagami looked over to see Konata and Inori entering the room.
"Hey Kona, any change with Tsukasa?" Kagami asked. Konata shook her head.
"No, no change." Konata sighed. "I think Matsuri almost got herself killed though." She said.
"Really? How's that?" She asked.
"She insulted Kan-kan's love. I can tell you, that's a big berserk button for him. I saw it in his eyes." Konata said. "I got ready to try and defend her, but if he really wanted to hurt her, there wouldn't be anything I could do." Konata said. Kagami sighed, but smiled.
"Yeah, I can see her doing something like that. She's just looking out for Tsukasa is all." Kagami excused.
"Well, I know, but I was worried that Kan-kan might not have seen it that way." Konata said. Inori, meanwhile, was looking at Konata.
"Oh~, I thought you were getting ready to attack us 'cause she insulted your brother!" Inori laughed.
"Nah, I was a little angry with her, sure, but I was more nervous that Kan-kan was gonna do something! Like I said, if he wants you to die, you die." Konata chuckled humorlessly. A silence seemed to come over the group. Kagami was next to speak.
"Ya know... That kind of isn't fair..." She said, almost under her breath. Konata perked up and looked over at her.
"Hm? What isn't?" Konata asked. Kagami looked up and looked at Konata.
"I just mean that one person has THAT kind of power, you know? His conscience is the only thing keeping him from abusing his powers. Like you said, he says die, you literally die." Kagami said.
"Only if he has the energy to kill you!" Konata tried to defend Tony.
"And what does that amount to? One pinched artery! An unraveled nerve bunch, the implications are frightening." Kagami said. Konata sighed.
"Kagami, I wish I could say that I knew Kan-kan was never gonna abuse his powers, but I can't say that. I couldn't say I wouldn't, and I couldn't say you wouldn't, nor can I say that about anyone. We can only trust that he won't." Konata said. "I for one trust him." Konata crossed her arms. "Even if he did abuse his powers, I know he would make it right afterwards."
"..." Kagami was silent a moment. "I guess you're right. It just seems a bit unfair." Kagami said. They realized that the whole room was looking at them, having been left out of their heated discussion. Konata walked over and sat next to Kagami. Miki smiled as she started another conversation to take the attention off of the two girls. Who knew what the future held, if Tadao would accept his daughter, if they would be happy? These things worried her, but they would wait. For now, the family had come together to support her and her daughter. For now, there was peace. They all kept talking, though Konata and Kagami were content to talk little and simply enjoy the pleasant company of the other. And so the family continued talking. Talking of Tony and Tsukasa's recent relationship, which they talked about in length, talking about the recent news, and then to the morose topic of how the hell they were going to pay for the car. Luckily, having four drivers in the house, the family had bought another car to drive, so they weren't completely without transportation. They talked with each other until it was dark out, for they rarely could all gather together and simply talk without the distraction of the television, though it was true they were down two daughters. Eventually, they had to stop and sit down in chairs. Their mouths and jaws ached from overuse. All but Konata and Kagami's, that is. They didn't talk much. Tadao was sitting in a chair next to his wife while Inori was asleep in another. Konata and Kagami were still sitting next to each other and talking with each other every now and again about random topics. Miki was smiling to herself that her two youngest daughters, twins no less, had found love at the same time. Now, only time could tell if it was true. She deeply hoped it was.
"Kagami, you staying?" Konata asked after a time. Kagami didn't take long before she gave an answer.
"Yeah, of course. Mom and Tsukasa are both here, I wanna be here when Mom can leave, and when Tsukasa wakes up." Kagami said. Konata smiled.
"I figured as much. Mind if I stay too?" Konata asked. Kagami raised an eyebrow in surprise. Then again, Konata had been surprising her quite a bit lately...
"Really Kona? You wanna stay?" Kagami smiled with happiness. Konata smiled back.
"Yeah! I wanna be here for all that too." Konata said. "Besides, Kan-kan's an emotional wreck, I can't very well leave him here in good conscience, now could I?" Konata asked with a smile on her face.
"No, I guess you couldn't." Kagami smiled. Konata yawned, conditioned as she was to all nighters, the stress of the day must have gotten to her. She fell asleep in the chair. Kagami almost giggled at how cute Konata looked. Kagami looked around to see Miki and Tadao drifting off, Tadao in his chair, Miki in her bed. Kagami smiled to herself and looked at the couch that was set up in the room. She was about to go lay down on it and let sleep take her when suddenly, she felt a small thud on her side. She looked over to see Konata leaning her head against her shoulder, fast asleep and with a silly little grin. Kagami couldn't help but giggle, seeing no reason she shouldn't now that she was basically alone. She decided the chair wasn't THAT uncomfortable, and leaned against Konata.
POV Tony
Tony woke up and looked around. Not much seemed different other than the lighting outside and Miyuki was sitting on the other side of Tsukasa, holding her hand and stroking it.
"Miyuki." Tony smiled. Miyuki started and looked up at him.
"Good morning Kanpeki-san." She eyesmiled.
"To be honest, I was a bit surprised you weren't here yesterday." Tony smiled. Miyuki seemed shift a bit and blush.
"It's a little embarrassing, but when I went to see Masutā yesterday, I forgot my cell phone at home. I wasn't aware of the accident until Masutā called yesterday." Miyuki said.
"Oh, you were there?" Tony asked, a bit embarrassed.
"Don't worry, I wasn't near when you arrived." Miyuki smiled, knowing the source of his discomfort. "I was indisposed." She said. With that, she looked back to Tsukasa. "Now, where were we?" She asked the unconscious girl. "Ah, yes, the part about the monkeys." Miyuki giggled warmly. As she continued a story which made little sense to Tony, the boy sat in awe. When he had spoken with Tsukasa, he had been able to do little more than mumble and plead. Miyuki, however, seemed completely in control, painting a story to life in front of his eyes. He wanted to ask her where she got such a story as full of oddities and magic as this, but he hadn't the heart to stop her. From what he could tell, it seemed to incorporate every element that Tsukasa liked into it. There were princesses, magic, prince charmings, sword fights, cute and fluffy things galore, everything. He was sure it had something to do with vanity, but he could have sworn he was a character himself in the story. He sat there dumbfounded as Miyuki told her tale. After what Tony would have sworn was only five minutes, Miyuki reached the conclusion of her story and smiled at Tsukasa. Tony brought his eyes from the two to see Matsuri was awake, aware, and listening. He looked at the clock to see it had been well over an hour since he had started listening. Tony smiled and looked back to Miyuki.
"Miyuki, you have to tell me where you learned that story. It seems like the kind of thing that has everything Tsukasa would like!" Tony smiled. Miyuki smiled and blushed.
"I'm afraid I can't do that Kanpeki-san." She said. Tony, though knowing it wouldn't be cute when he did it, pouted.
"Come on Miyuki! Why not?" Tony asked. "It seems a tale I'd like to memorize! It was almost magical itself." Tony said. Miyuki blushed a bit deeper.
"I made it up." She said, looking to Tony. It was a moment before what she had said sank in.
"You-You made that up?" His mouth dropped. "How could you make such an enchanting story as that up on the spot?" He asked, awed at Miyuki's story telling skills. She really IS super smart! He thought.
"Yes... It's a little embarrassing, but when I was a little girl, I would always read the stories that my mother would read to me, but never finish. Once those books were read, however, I had to imagine what I would think the characters would do after that. And then I would reread them to make sure I would have gotten it right, and I would continue this until I had the fairy tales almost memorized. Between how much I used my imagination, the amount of fairy tales I read, and how well I memorized them, it's a simple matter to take elements of each type of story and make it into a fairy tale." Miyuki smiled. "I know what Tsukasa likes, so I put them all together." Miyuki said simply. That gave Tony an idea.
"Um.. Just a little question here, I know it's a little vain to ask, but was I a character in the story?" Tony asked. Miyuki smiled and giggled.
"I said I know what Tsukasa likes, and that definitely includes you." She smiled. Tony blushed a bit. He looked down at Tsukasa and couldn't help but feel helpless.
Man, she's in such better company with Miyuki! There's nothing I can really do to help here... He sighed. But there is someone I can help. IDIOT! Why didn't I think of that before? He sighed. "Miyuki would you mind watching over Tsukasa for a few minutes?" Tony asked Miyuki. She smiled.
"Sure Kanpeki-san. Leave her to me." She said. Matsuri looked at Tony.
"And where are you going?" She asked.
"Matsuri, would you mind showing me to your mother's room? I'm an idiot, all this time I could have at least seen if I could heal your mother." Tony said.
"Oh~..." Matsuri nodded. "Yeah, sure! Let's go." She got up and walked to the door. Tony walked to it as well, but turned around.
"Miyuki, would you mind thinking on something for me?" Tony asked.
"Think of Recoome." Miyuki said. Tony nodded, though he was behind her and she wouldn't be able to see.
"Yes, that." He said. Miyuki nodded.
"Sure." She said simply. With that, Tony and Matsuri left. The second she heard the door click closed, Miyuki let the tears she had been holding back fall unabated. "Tsukasa..." She muttered, anguish in her voice as she held her friend's hand.
Tony and Matsuri walked down the hall.
"Well, it looks like you might have some competition for Tsukasa." Matsuri giggled. "That Miyuki seems like she's pretty interested." The girl teased. Tony smiled in spite of himself.
"To be honest, Miyuki said she looked on it more as a platonic, sister-sister relationship. She would make an excellent sister and mother though." Tony chuckled.
"Well, can't say I'm not a bit disappointed, but I'm glad that means you're not going anywhere." Matsuri smiled over at Tony.
"Thanks, but what did I do to deserve such praise? Just last night you slapped me." He said. Matsuri laughed.
"I wasn't really angry you left, I just wanted to see if you were gonna defend yourself when I said you didn't love her." Matsuri said. "Besides, you're coming to heal Mom. You don't get much nicer than that." She said.
"Either way, I'm glad to help however I can." Tony said as he ate more of the slightly more solid substance out of the bag. He looked into it to see he had enough for one more energy refill.
"What the hell is in that thing anyway?" Matsuri asked. Tony smiled.
"Dengen. The stuff will make you wish you had never had taste buds, but a couple bites will keep a man on his feet through hard labor for a full day easily. Doesn't heal wounds, unfortunately. Kinda sucks, we could give some to your mother and try to give some to Tsukasa." Tony said.
"Ah, 'cause it smells rancid." Matsuri commented.
"It tastes rancid. It's a set." Tony said.
"Can I try a taste? I'm a little sluggish." Matsuri requested, wanting to see what this substance tasted like. Tony raised an eyebrow, but took out about half as much as the bit he had at first and gave it to her. "That's a small piece..." She commented as she popped it into her mouth. She instantly gagged. "What the hell is in that crap? It tastes like I just drank from a septic tank!" She shouted.
"An assortment of berries, honey-" Tony started.
"There's no way there's honey in there." Matsuri wanted to pat her tongue to try and get the offending taste from her mouth.
"Let me finish. Berries, honey, lard, powdered beef liver, and..." He stopped for a moment. Matsuri looked over. "I'm not sure you want to hear the last ingredient."
"What? What the hell did I just put in my mouth?" She asked.
"Lamb's heart." Tony heard Matsuri gag again.
"I ATE A LAMB'S HEART?" She yelled.
"Please, don't yell, you're gonna get us in trouble..." Tony looked around for hospital staff. Luckily, the hall seemed vacant enough. Matsuri suddenly hummed.
"Wow. I feel completely rejuvenated!" She looked at her hands as if she were about to use an energy blast. She hopped a few times. "Past the taste, that stuff is amazing! But..." She looked confusedly at Tony.
"Yes?" He asked as they got to the room. They stopped outside so as to finish their conversation.
"How on Earth did you think of THAT combination of ingredients?" Matsuri asked. Tony smiled.
"I didn't, my brother's best friend taught it to him while they were in the forces together." He explained.
"Forces?" Matsuri asked.
"Later." He raised a hand to dismiss the subject.
A little rude... Matsuri huffed in her head as she opened the door. Tadao was the only one awake and was stroking his wife's hair lovingly. That this man could be capable of evil seemed completely ridiculous in this light. He looked up and smiled at Matsuri and Tony.
"Come in, sit down." He gestured to a couple of empty chairs. Tony walked up, but didn't sit.
"Tadao, I hate to ask this, but would you mind waking your wife?" Tony asked. Tadao raised an eyebrow.
"Why?" He asked. Tony smiled.
"Healing is EXTREMELY uncomfortable, even with the smallest wound. If she wakes up to such a sensation, she's going to panic. I only ask you to wake her before I start so that you can comfort her through it." Tony said. Seeing the worried look on Tadao's face, he decided to add. "It isn't painful, just uncomfortable." Tony said. Tadao looked at his sleeping wife's face and nodded.
"Yeah, alright." He agreed. He lightly shook her. "Honey? Honey?" Matsuri almost cringed a bit at the reminder. Miki stirred.
"Hm?" She woke and looked about. "Oh, hello mister Kan-chan." She giggled to herself. "You've made my daughter very happy I hope you know." She smiled warmly to Tony, who blushed and smiled back.
"I'm glad to hear that. Would you like to go see her?" Tony asked. Miki raised an eyebrow.
"How's that?" She asked.
"Magic, remember?" Tony smirked. Kagami stirred awake.
"What's goi..." She mumbled sleepily. Tony looked over at her and smiled at seeing she had been resting on Konata, who had been resting on her. She saw everyone around. "Hey, who's watching Tsukasa?" Kagami asked.
"Miyuki." Tony said. "Would you like me to heal you?" He turned back to Miki.
"I would love that, thank you." Miki smiled.
"Don't thank me yet." Tony scratched the back of his head as Tadao grabbed his wife's hand with one hand and started stroking her hair. She gulped. "This isn't gonna be comfortable..." He walked over. He put his hand on her arm and took a deep breath to ready himself. "Heal painlessly." He muttered as his energy started to drain into the woman. He shuddered as a chill ran down his spine. Soon as the sensation ended, Tony stepped back and collapsed into a chair.
Miki, meanwhile, squirmed, wriggled, and groaned as the bones shifted to repair themselves, capillaries mended, tissue cleaned itself of blood, and her body otherwise rebuilt itself. The word uncomfortable would be to this as moderately painful would be to being impaled. There wasn't quite a word to explain the sensation of things traveling beneath your skin. The feeling sustained itself for another moment, and vanished. Miki shuddered. "You were right. That wasn't comfortable at all." She chuckled humorlessly. She moved her neck, then her arms, then her legs. All moved without resistance, other than the ones that were in casts. Tony was in the chair, doing his best to eat from the bag. His hands were trembling under the usually negligible weight of the gummy "food".
That took way too much energy... He panted. I need to find a way to get my energy back quickly. He determined. He sighed, dismissed the notion for the time being. Tsukasa. I have to focus on how to get her back. He thought as he ate the last of the energy food from his bag. Recoome. He thought to himself. Meanwhile, he siphoned a little bit of the energy from the air to refill what the dengen had not. Konata stirred as a nip entered the air. She leaned back up and yawned, stretching. Tony smiled to her as she blinked the sleep from her eyes.
"Hey Kan-kan, think of anything?" Konata asked. Tony shook his head.
"Not yet. Maybe I can write it out, hopefully something will come to me." Tony grabbed a napkin. "Anyone have a pencil?" He asked. Konata reached into her pocket and brought out a pencil with the end broken off of it so that the point was all that was left in it. She handed it to Tony. "Thanks." He brought his chair to a table and began writing on the napkin. Dr. Zimmerman came in.
"Okay Mrs. Hiiragi, let's see how you'r-..." He froze on seeing her move around easily. He looked over to see Tony scribbling away. He sighed. "Hello Mr. Otokonoko. Nice to see you again." He said. Tony looked up at the doctor.
"Hello Dr. Zimmerman. Nice day." Tony smiled.
"Is Mrs. Hiiragi healed?" Dr. Zimmerman asked. Tony nodded.
"Yep." He turned back to the napkin he was writing on.
"Alright, let me remove your cast then." The doctor walked over and began removing her cast. Tony scowled as he made a mistake in one of his theories. He went to erase it and realized why he couldn't.
Damn, no eraser! There's-... Eraser... Tony thought. He smiled as euphoria washed over him. He smiled widely. Got it.
Luckier Star
"Luckier~! Channel~!" Akira shouted. "Hiya Luckies! I'm Akira Kogami, your navigator!"
"And I'm Minoru Shiraishi, the assistant!"
"Minoru, did you see? I think Kan-chan has an idea!"
"I saw, what do you think it is?" Minoru asked.
"I have absolutely no idea!" Akira said. "Anything new?"
"Well..."
*Music Tone*
"Aw, looks like that's all the time we have for today! I'll see ya all next chapter! Bye nii~!"
"..."
"So what were you gonna say?"
"About what happened last night... at the festival?"
"Oh. That. Well..."
*End*
Aftersection
Is it sacrilegious to have a god from the Shinto religion quote the bible? Anyway, I'm on a freaking roll lately. I had the first seven and a half thousand words of this chapter typed the day after I released last chapter. And the next fifteen hundred the day after that! *Smile* I have two new readers! Herbcurb7 and Riverdan4! Herb, I hope you end up reading this, that means you liked the story enough to read up to this point and I hope you will continue to read! Riverdan, I loved your review, if I may ask one more favor, let me know if you have any more nitpicks! And a huge thank you to Flygon Master! I already have the next, maybe three thousand words written down and I'm still going on. So hopefully the next one shouldn't take long! Of course, that's barring any unforeseen circumstances. That would suck if the next chapter were delayed for, oh say, several months. Wouldn't it? What could do this you ask? *Shrug* Anyway, nothing's probably going to happen! I'll see ya all next chapter! Glad to have my new readers! Bye!