Chapter Four – The Bridge that links us
"Good morning, Saga. How are you today?"
Upon the warm greeting of the Libra Gold Saint, Saga knew today's administrative duty will be enjoyable again. In comparison to working together with five other boys who whine non-stop about the boring task, it was always a delight whenever Miyabi was scheduled on. Knowing so, Saga had secretly been looking forward to it every time.
"Good morning, Miyabi. You are early again."
"Of course. As the newest member of the team, I have to make sure I work twice as hard to catch up." In enthusiasm, Miyabi smiled while she naturally grabbed another mug from the shelf. "Black coffee as usual?"
"Yes, thank you." Furthermore, Saga gets to enjoy the coffee Miyabi makes for him. The fact he could just sit here and watch her, it was like receiving the energy boost needed for the day. If he could, he really wished to schedule her on every day.
"Miyabi," Signally for the girl to sit down opposite him at the lunch table within the kitchenette of the office, Saga asked while he took a sip of the coffee Miyabi handed to him. "It has been almost a month since you joined us. How are you doing?"
"Well," wrapping her hands around the warm mug in her hand, Miyabi smiled. "I am doing great. Everyone's so friendly and helpful. It was hard to imagine because a month ago, I could never even converse with any of the Gold Saints. Yet, they all take time to train with me, look after me, even invite me to their gatherings so I can feel like part of a team."
It was indeed true for Miyabi to feel this way. Gold Saints are the top elites of the saints of Athena. Their status was most respected and awed by all. It was already impossible for any lower rank saints to take sight of the most admired knights of all, let alone living amongst them, conversing with them on a daily basis. That is why, Miyabi felt like the luckiest person on earth right now.
Lifting his eyebrows a little when he heard what Miyabi said, Saga unfortunately could not relate. As a long time comrade of the team, Saga knew whatever Miyabi described was nothing like the Gold Saints he knew. Due to their incredible strength and elite status, it was like a gathering of the most accentuated bunch in one place. If they ever become so helpful and kind, there is only one reason.
"I see, so who has been taking care of you specifically?"
"Well," Innocently, Miyabi continued. "Milo, Camus, and Shura have always invited me over for their afterwork gatherings. I have my daily psych training session with Shaka and Mu. Kanon also trained with me every morning, though every time we train, I always lose bets to him…"
Bets? Saga knew his brother was up to no good. For someone who would rather sleep in till the last minute, he was surprised to find Kanon out of bed early recently. Of course he would, for there's a prize to be won.
"What type of bets?" Trying to remain calm, Saga asked.
"Oh, I already owe him a week of packed lunch, a cooked dinner, and a date…"
"A what?"
"A week of packed…"
"No, the last one."
"A date?" Miyabi repeated a little surprised with Saga's reaction. "Oh, it's not a romantic date or anything like that. I think we will just probably go have coffee at some café in the nearby village."
You have no idea, Miyabi.
Saga could not help but sigh within. Taking another look at the girl's innocent expressions, Saga knew it was probably because Miyabi spent most of her time training to become a saint, and the people she trained with were decent human beings like Dohko and Shiryu, that is why she has no idea what goes through men's minds.
"By the way, Saga." Of course, not realising the dark side that is going on inside the Acting Pope, Miyabi asked. "You mentioned before that we are allowed to get supplies from places as long as we do not expose ourselves as a saint. Since I am off tomorrow, is it okay for me to go for a supply run in Japan?"
"Sure, as long as you don't reveal to anyone your status as a saint." Saga nodded when an idea suddenly hit him. "Actually, Miyabi. If it's tomorrow I think I can come with you."
Not expecting that from Saga, because he didn't look like the type who will be interested in supply runs, Miyabi asked. "I don't mind of course, is there anything you need to get from Japan?"
"No, there's a document I need to have Athena review and sign straight away, so I was planning to head to Japan tomorrow anyway."
"In that case what time should we leave tomorrow so I can let Camus know."
"Camus?"
"I promised to take Camus along to a supply run in Japan, since he took me to Paris last time."
Tapping his finger against his cheek, Saga was amused to find that Camus turned out to be the dark horse. While Kanon tried so hard to get a date with Miyabi, unknowingly Camus already went on one with Miyabi and easily secured his next. Holding in the urge to laugh at Kanon in the face, Saga gave Miyabi a smile instead. "I think we might have to leave tonight after work because of the time difference."
Realising Saga brought up an important point, Miyabi nodded before realising something. "Oh, but Camus is out on a mission today."
"I guess he can join you next time."
With that, the most calculating Gold Saint of all, Gemini Saga effortlessly secured himself a date with Miyabi. Knowing he won against Kanon again, Saga smiled to himself as he calmly took a sip of the coffee in his hand.
As agreed, Miyabi got ready in the middle of the night to meet up with Saga at the entrance of Sanctuary so they could teleport to Japan together. With the plan of arriving there in the morning in Tokyo. Ensuring she would blend in like a local without drawing attention to herself, Miyabi applied some light makeup, wore a watercolour blouse with beige pants. Unless you're a saint as well, there was no telling she wasn't just a normal Japanese girl.
Quietly passing through all the other constellation temples, Miyabi ensured she did not disturb any other Gold Saints' sleep and while she passed through Gemini temple, she found Saga also just leaving. To her surprise, Saga was dressed in a business suit, and with his tall perfect figure and drop-dead handsome appearance, Miyabi thought Saga looked just like a fashion model.
"Saga…"
Before Miyabi continued, Saga placed his finger before his lips to indicate for her to speak to his cosmos directly. Because it was around 2am in the morning, it's best not to disturb others considering all the Gold Saints have heightened hearing ability.
But to be honest, the real reason was because Saga didn't want to wake Kanon up. If Kanon had found out he was going to Japan with Miyabi, that man would definitely interfere.
Nodding to Saga in understanding, Miyabi spoke directly to Saga's cosmos. "Sorry, Saga. I didn't realise we have to wear suits."
"No, it's fine. I am wearing a suit because I am meeting Athena at her office. So, I have to play my part as the Vice President of the Graad Foundation."
"You're the VP of Graad Foundation?"
"In name only." Saga smiled at Miyabi and started heading down the steps. Following quickly after Saga, Miyabi realised it made sense considering Saga is the Acting Pope, position wise he is the right-hand man to the Athena.
"Are you sure it's okay that I come along?"
"Of course, I won't take long to discuss the matter with Athena. We will be out of the office in less than an hour."
While the conversations continued between the two when they passed through Taurus temple and Aries temple, a frown came onto Saga's face when he noticed someone waiting at the entrance of the Sanctuary.
"Good evening, Saga and Miyabi. It's a bit late to be heading out, isn't it?"
"Kanon…"
Waiting for them was no one else, but the man who shared Saga's identical appearance, and the man Saga most did not want to see here.
Though not dressed in a suit like Saga, Kanon wore a navy shirt with grey pants, definitely dressier than his usual attire. A sign he was prepared to join them in Japan.
"How did you…"
"Unfortunately, no one knows the evil inside you like I do," enjoying the agitated look on his brother's face Kanon smirked. "When Miyabi told me she couldn't join me for morning training tomorrow and you asking Aiolos to take over for a day, it wasn't hard to piece the two together."
Ignoring Saga, Kanon turned to Miyabi instead. "You look nice, Miyabi, is it because you are dressing up for our date?"
Not a clue with the mental battle going on between the twin brothers, Miyabi smiled. "Unfortunately, I was just returning to Japan to do a supply run."
"Great, in that case since you still owe me a date, why don't we just do it in Japan? I would love to have a local show me around."
"Aren't you on administrative duty?" Cutting in coldly from the side was Saga.
"Nah, Aldebaran swapped with me." Kanon crossed his arms showing he was all prepared.
"Miyabi is there to buy stuff for herself. Don't make her waste her day off to take you around."
"I return that right back at you."
"I'm heading to Japan for business purposes unlike you."
"Really? From what I heard you weren't meant to go till next week."
Noticing the two brothers' cosmos starting to increase, Miyabi quickly waved her hands and stopped them. "It's okay, I don't mind showing both of you around."
Sadly, once the Gemini brothers are going at it with each other, no one can stop them. Giving his brother a chuckle, Saga shrugged. "Kanon, maybe you should learn from Camus. When you're taking a girl on a date, it is polite for the man to escort the lady like a gentleman, and not the other way round."
"What do you mean?" Frowning to Saga's taunt, Kanon asked.
"Camus knew for his date with Miyabi, he needed to make it romantic and special, that's why he took her to Paris, visited all the beautiful sceneries, enjoyed the best food his country has to offer…"
"Ah, wait, Camus and I just went on a supply run in Paris! It wasn't a date…" Miyabi justified quickly but was gone unheard as Kanon countered his brother.
"At least both Camus and I didn't have to trick someone into a date. Abusing power as the boss, Saga, you are the very definition of power harassment."
Letting out a laughter in pride, Saga grinned. "At least powerful man has the influence to pamper a lady. I don't need to use bets to get dates."
"Umm…It wasn't a date…" While Miyabi repeated that in justification, she was suddenly reminded of the odd actions Camus had on that day. How he continued to hold onto her hand the entire way back, and the tender expression he had on his face when he smiled and said goodbye to her after he escorted him back to her Libra temple. Shifting her eyes, a shade of pinkness came onto her soft cheeks when she remembered thinking, for a knight proficient in controlling ice, Camus' hand was so warm.
Noticing the shy expression on Miyabi's face, Saga and Kanon exchanged a look in alert.
"Maybe we should call it a truce."
"Agreed. Or else we are just making Camus look good."
Since twins think alike, the two brothers came to an understanding. With a radiant godly smile, Saga turned to Miyabi. "Anyway, shall we leave before any more delay?"
"Of course, where is the destination?" Nodding, Miyabi asked because the Gold Saints always have a certain place they teleport to in order to avoid being seen.
"Here, follow me." Reaching forth his arm, Saga pulled Miyabi to himself. Though his plan to spend some quality time with Miyabi alone in Japan was ruined by Kanon, this much he at least does not plan to give to his brother.
Before Miyabi had time to register, Saga already teleported the both of them to the destination.
"Seriously Saga..." Appearing next to them was Kanon who also teleported, following straight after them. His eyes narrowing in disapproval when he saw Saga's arm around Miyabi.
Ignoring Kanon, Saga let go of Miyabi. "We have arrived. If you ever need to teleport to Japan again, here is the destination."
Studying the venue, Miyabi found themselves at an undercover carpark, with the space they stand on labelled, 'Reserved for VP', and the one beside it, 'Reserved for Director'.
It was then, the elevator at the carpark opened, and a familiar person stepped out and greeted them. "Yo, Saga, Kanon and Miyabi. Athena said you guys will be here."
"Milo! How come you're here too?" Miyabi called in surprise when she saw a tall cheerful handsome friend waving at them, dressed also in a business suit.
"Well, I am the person rostered on to protect Athena today." Stopping, Milo nodded. "Oh yeah, you haven't been put on the roster yet, so you don't know."
"Roster?"
"Yeah, basically aside from the administrative duty, each of the Gold Saints are rostered round the clock to protect Athena when she is in Japan." Milo explained. "She mentioned you guys are here, so have asked me to come take you to her."
"Wow, she knew we were coming?"
"Of course, that's why she is our goddess." Naturally conversing like friends, Miyabi and Milo started heading off, walking side by side.
"Saga, I bet you weren't expecting this."
"Kanon, this guy is dangerous…"
"Yeah, the worst part is, he doesn't even know he is doing it…"
While the brothers wrestled in their mind games, who would have guessed the Scorpion Gold Saint would come in and reap all the benefits. Letting out a sigh, the brothers followed quickly after Milo and Miyabi.
"It was so nice to see you again." Holding Miyabi's hand in her own, Saori was genuinely happy to see the female Gold Saint.
"As do I, Athena." It was indeed so. Ever since Miyabi became a Gold Saint, a knight who protects their goddess Athena, Miyabi found she had not much opportunity to do so.
Like reading through her mind, Saori responded with a warm smile. "I have asked Saga to slowly ease you into the tasks, as I was hoping to give you some time to adjust into the role." Pausing, Saori's stunning eyes glanced over at the other three Gold Saints in the room in tease. "These boys can be hard to get along with."
Shaking her head like mad, Miyabi justified for her teammates. "They have treated me with kindness, Athena. Considering how inexperienced I am in comparison; they have all taken time to help me get stronger."
Chuckling at Miyabi's reaction, Saori looked over once again at the three boys who looked embarrassed because Saori saw right through them. "I think it wasn't because of their kindness, but I believe it was rather because of you."
"Me?"
"Yes, I am glad you are the bridge that links them." Exactly like how Saga felt before, Saori knew despite all the Gold Saints were powerful and have the same goal to assist her in fighting against Hades in the Holy War, it was no easy task to get them all to work together. For it was known to all, each individual Gold Saint was powerful enough to handle a battle on his own, and therefore there was never the need to work together to achieve victory.
From the reports she had been hearing, apparently that has changed in the past month, especially after the new member joined the Gold Saints rank. Smiling secretly within, she knew having a female member will greatly boost the team moral.
"What brought you and Kanon here today, Miyabi?" Changing the topic Saori asked. For it wasn't common for three Gold Saints to appear in one place when there's no specific mission assigned.
"Kanon is here to help me get some grocery supplies for my kitchen." Miyabi replied. "I was hoping to prepare some homemade Japanese cuisine."
"Oh man, I wish I could come along too." Milo remarked for it would have been fun to have a local show him around. He had been to Japan many times on missions, but never once had time to enjoy the food and scenery.
"You are not here for entertainment, Milo. Your job is to protect the Athena." Reminding the Scorpio Saint, Saga cleared his throat.
"Fufu, it's fine." Saori smiled warmly at Milo. "How about you join them for the day? It would definitely be a rare opportunity to see Japan."
"Athena!" Saga protested immediately. "Your safety is above all. Someone needs to remain here to protect you."
"It's okay, I have you."
"Huh?"
"You came to discuss business with me, right?" Saori asked innocently. "To be honest I am glad you came earlier, because I have so many things I need to go through with you."
Not expecting such turn of events, Saga felt his tongue tied when he could hear Kanon laughing at his cosmos.
"In that case, let's not interrupt their business meeting." Kanon said, trying hard to not let that smile appear on his lips.
"Thank you, I owe you one." Milo saluted Saga before he quickly followed Kanon and Miyabi.
"Hahaha, did you see Saga's face?" Kanon finally let out the laughter he had been holding in when they left the building.
"I can't say I won't fear for my life after I get back." Milo scratched his head because he could definitely sense Saga's evil aura pricking him.
"I do feel bad for leaving him behind." As the only person who has empathy towards Saga, Miyabi gave a sigh. "The original plan was to show him around…"
"He will be fine." Obviously enjoying the outcome, Kanon asked, not interested in talking about Saga anymore. "Where would you like to go first?"
"I would like to go to some local street mall to get cooking items, then after that, how about we visit the fish market for some sushi?" Knowing she must play the role of a local, Miyabi suggested.
"I love sushi!" Milo hoorayed.
"Love to experience Japan with a local, show us what Japan has to offer."
"In that case," Miyabi grinned. "Let's experience the real Japan."
"Oh my god, do we really have to catch the train?" Kanon groaned when he could feel the sweaty Japanese man leaning on him.
"Can't we just teleport there?" Milo also grunted feeling like someone stepped on his foot.
To be honest, Miyabi knew it would be easy to travel to places on public transport in Tokyo. However, she had not taken into consideration, with Kanon and Milo both being big, tall Greek men, the train carriage felt way too small for them. Not to mention, considering the idea of the supply run was to not draw attention to themselves, it became impossible to achieve when there are two supermodel looking men escorting her. Miyabi could sense the entire train staring at them, and the unnatural gathering of female passengers around them.
"Finally, fresh air!" Kanon let out a breath after they finally got out of the train station.
"The trains in Japan are harsher than the Holy War…"
Miyabi burst out laughing when she heard Milo's comment. "You guys exaggerate so much. We still need to catch the train to go to the fish market after this."
"Please," Holding onto Miyabi's shoulders, Kanon pleaded. "Can we just teleport there?"
Tilting her head, Miyabi thought for a while. "But it's impossible to find a spot to teleport to that has no one around. Tokyo has one of the highest population densities in the world…"
"Consider it a training, Kanon." Placing his hand on his comrade's shoulder, Milo gave a sigh. "Besides, I think this is a great opportunity for us to understand the environment Miyabi grew up in."
"Aww, thank you Milo." Touched with how his senior is willing to learn more about her country's culture, Miyabi gave Milo a grateful smile.
"Seriously," Kanon whispered to Milo's cosmos as they followed after Miyabi while she shopped for her supplies. "How are you doing that?"
"Doing what?"
"Are you a natural? Or is that your way of getting the ladies to like you?"
"Huh?" Turning to Kanon, the person that became his close friend too after their encounter at the Athena's temple during the Hades battle, Milo asked instead. "What do you mean by that? Isn't it normal to treat people nicely?"
"In that case, let me ask you this." His eyes on the girl who was looking through the different miso on the shelf, Kanon asked. "What do you think of Miyabi?"
Crossing his arms, the Scorpion Saint studied the Libra Gold Saint. To be honest, it was no denying Miyabi is beautiful, even Aphrodite agrees so. It also felt different to have a female join the team, not to mention Miyabi is his next-door neighbour. On top of that, he also noticed some of the Gold Saints have acted out of norm ever since Miyabi joined the team.
Well, Kanon aside, since he was never shy with the ladies, the almighty Shaka actually spared time daily to train with her, and Mu as well. For him though, Milo was simply glad to make new friends, and in the last month, he was definitely one of those seniors that spent more time taking care of her. If Kanon was to ask him for his intentions, as a knight who is naturally passionate and wants to believe in the goodness of people, then Milo believed female or male made no difference to him. He treated Miyabi nice because it was a normal thing to do considering he was more experienced than her.
"I guess," Milo finally concluded. "She is like a little sister to me?"
"Just a little sister?" Raising his eyebrow in disbelief, Kanon shook his head. "That would sound more convincing if it came from Aldebaran or Aiolos."
"Well, I don't know what game you and Saga are playing. You do know that if you hurt Miyabi, there will be other Gold Saints you need to deal with."
"Haha, you mean Shaka?" Kanon cracked up laughing, understanding what Milo was referring to. "He did come as a surprise."
"Now I throw your question back at you too, what's your intention with her?"
Unlike the aloof, carefree attitude he had before, a most serious look came onto Kanon's handsome face. "I do admit I started approaching Miyabi because I knew it would annoy Saga. But the more I spent time with her, the more I started to find her interesting. So interesting that I didn't even mind getting up early everyday to train with her. Maybe it is as Athena said, she is the bridge that links us."
"Milo and Kanon, come try this!"
Seeing how the girl called out to them while she pointed to the stall in front of her, upon such a warm, kind smile, Milo agreed wholeheartedly. "Indeed so."
Gemini Kanon, the twin brother of the most powerful Gold Saints of all time, was rumoured to have equal strength and ability as his brother. This was proven when he single handedly destroyed numerous Spectres as he walked through the underworld, unstoppable. Even against one of the three judges, Wyvern Rhadamanthys, he was able to overpower him, redeeming the pride of Gold Saints.
As the mighty man who conquered the underworld alone and without trouble, for the first time Kanon discovered, challenges lie in every corner. Watching in frustration, the Gemini Gold Saint was perplexed to find, despite all his strength and ability, his high IQ that was able to manipulate god, there were things he couldn't do.
"Oh damn!" Cursing, Kanon saw once again, the sushi fell off his chopsticks.
How is it possible to use something so imbalanced to pick up an item so fragile. The fact he had to balance the stick between his second, third finger, and move it together in harmonious movement so the stick between his thumb and second can meet up together and produce the perfect strength in order to lift an item without breaking it.
"No, Kanon, you got it wrong." Coming from beside him, the Scorpio Gold Saint showed Kanon the two sticks in his hand and how he was able to pick, lift, and bring the food to his mouth. Like rubbing it into his face, Milo grinned. "See? This is the problem with you strength fighters. Sometimes, the victory hinges on technique."
Though it was his first time as well, Milo was able to pick up the skill of chopsticks easily because, compared to precisely hitting 15 scorpion constellation points to multiple targets at the speed of light, this was a piece of cake.
"It's ok, do you want me to get you a fork?" In kindness Miyabi offered, noticing Kanon had not been able to eat any of the sushi on his plate.
As a man of pride, Kanon was definitely not going to accept defeat by using a fork. Shaking his head, Kanon rechallenged and this time, he ensured the precise amount of power is needed without breaking the sushi apart, and when he saw it finally balancing on his chopsticks, a joy he never felt before engulfed him. Unfortunately, such bliss was only momentarily when it once again dropped off the chopsticks and fell onto the table.
Staring the wasted sushi on the table, Kanon was starting to feel sorry for himself. This date with Miyabi wasn't supposed to turn out this way. He was meant to sweep Miyabi off her feet with his romantic, Casanova moves. As it turned out, first Saga was in the way, and then it was Milo. Now, he was just making a fool of himself.
"Haha, Miyabi. You might as well feed it to him, or else he is only wasting food." Milo laughed while he took a sip of the green tea.
"Here," picking up the sushi from her own plate, Miyabi kindly offered it to Kanon. "Say ah…"
Not expecting Miyabi to actually do it, Milo almost spat out the tea from his mouth.
It was then, before Kanon's eyes, he thought he saw the loving glow of an angel. When life had come to the end of the road, Miyabi was there reaching out her hand to rescue him. Moving his eyes onto Milo in victory, Kanon purposely said 'ah' as he let Miyabi put the sushi into his mouth.
"It's delicious." Smiling charmingly at Miyabi, Kanon felt all his confidence returned once more. "Feed me another one."
"Sure," without any malice, Miyabi picked up another piece and fed it to Kanon again.
"Oh my god…" was all Milo could say while he rolled his eyes at the scene.
"Do you want one more?"
"Of course." While Kanon thought he was able to enjoy the moment that finally felt like a date, an unhappy voice interrupted and spoke to their cosmos.
"Milo and Kanon, the Athena wishes to see you guys at once."
"Oh man, Saga. Why do you always have to wreck my moment?"
"Is everything alright, Saga?" Miyabi responded quickly in concern.
"Yeah, there were just some reports that didn't make sense, so Athena has asked for Milo and Kanon to confirm a few items. But don't worry, you can carry on with your shopping and once everything is sorted, we will join you."
Exchanging a look, Milo and Kanon knew Saga must have done this on purpose. He was resenting the fact he had to stay back while they enjoyed great local food with Miyabi. Knowing Saga, if he was going to suffer, he wasn't going to suffer alone.
"Fine, we will be there straight away."
Turning to Miyabi, Kanon smiled. "You continue to enjoy your sushi. No need to wait for us. Once we're done, we will contact you about where to meet up."
"Thanks for taking me around today, Miyabi." Milo also said. "But I guess I better get back to my mission, so I will see you back at the Sanctuary."
After the two companions left the restaurant, Miyabi also quickly finished her food and headed to the counter to pay. To her surprise, the waitress mentioned that the two gentlemen had already paid for everything before they left. Feeling bad for letting Milo and Kanon pay, Miyabi made up her mind to provide them delicious Japanese food once they return to Sanctuary.
With that in mind, Miyabi knew she had to get more supplies before returning home. Just before she stepped out of the restaurant, from her heightened hearing ability, she overheard someone arguing in Greek inside the restaurant.
Turning to the voice, Miyabi saw a tall man with long dark hair that resembled the night, and extremely fair skin like the snow, eyes of clear crystal blue that showed extreme beauty. Talking to the man, was one of the waiters in the restaurant. Unable to speak Greek of course, the waiter struggled to communicate in broken English, but it appeared that the person who spoke Greek didn't understand English either.
One of the criteria for all the Gold Saints of Athena was to be able to speak in Greek and Japanese fluently. Greek, because Athena is a Grecian goddess, and Sanctuary is located in Greece. Japanese because the current Athena, Kido Saori mainly uses Japanese, so in order to accommodate her, it was a requirement for all the Gold Saints to be fluent in Japanese as well.
It was of course no different for Miyabi. That was why when she saw how the waiter and the customer were struggling to communicate with each other, the kindhearted girl just couldn't stand by and watch.
Approaching the gentleman who was speaking Greek, Miyabi offered. "If it's okay, I can translate for you."
Upon hearing the fluent Greek, the tall Greek gentleman nodded. "Yes, tell him that I want the ultimate plate with all the sushi on it."
After hearing Miyabi's translation, in relief, the waiter led the gentleman to a table and said to Miyabi. "Thank you so much. Or else I wouldn't know what to do. Although if it's okay, are you able to stay with the customer in case he needs anything else?"
"No problem at all." Giving the waiter a smile, Miyabi then turned to the Greek gentleman. "I will stay back a bit and help you translate in case you need anything else."
"If you wish to do so."
Noticing the man sitting before her spoke with a certain authority, and the clothes he was wearing were of the finest materials, Miyabi assumed the gentleman must be of some great importance. Calmly sipping the green tea the waiter poured for them, the Greek gentleman emitted such charisma and confidence proving himself as a person who isn't like the people around him.
Miyabi was confirmed even more with her observation when the waiter arrived with a huge plate of sushi. Unlike her, who naturally awed at the amount and variety of sushi on a single plate, the Greek gentleman remained calm while he simply studied the gigantic plate before him.
"Um, will you have friends or family joining you soon?" Miyabi asked when she counted 48 sushi on the plate.
"No, I came alone."
"Are you going to eat this all by yourself?"
Still without any particular emotions, the man said. "I have heard great reviews from my subordinates about sushi. I wanted to see what the fuss was about. That's why I asked for the plate with everything on it."
"So…this is your first-time eating sushi?"
Finally moving his stunning blue eyes onto the girl before him, the man asked. "Why? Is there something I need to know before eating sushi?"
Chuckling, Miyabi shook her head. "No, it's not that. But since it's your first time, I guess I can show you the correct order of eating it so you can enjoy the food better."
"Very well, show me."
Wanting the Greek gentleman to have the best first impression of sushi, Miyabi kindly explained the etiquette and manner of eating sushi. "Okay, so since sushi is the type of food where you enjoy the pure taste of the fresh ingredients, so the best time to eat it is when it was firstly prepared for you." Handing a pair of chopsticks to the gentleman, Miyabi demonstrated. "Because the warmth from our hand could easily alter the taste of the fresh fish, so it is ideal to use chopsticks to handle the food…"
To her surprise though, unlike how Kanon struggled with the technique of chopsticks, the Greek gentleman copied exactly what Miyabi did and was able to move the chopsticks easily as instructed. Nodding her head in praise, Miyabi continued to explain. "As I explained before, because sushi is the type of food where you savour the natural umami of the fresh ingredients, so we want to start with fish that has lighter taste. The ideal order is to start with white fish towards darker colour…"
Observing how the girl thoughtfully explained things in detail to a stranger, the dark-haired gentleman discovered the sushi he was having was indeed delicious, like how his subordinates have been raving about. On top of that, the man knew, the first-time sushi experience might not have been as pleasant if he didn't receive the help from this girl.
While they were eating, a lady rushed into the restaurant and approached them. "Milord! I have been looking all over for you!"
"Calm, Pandora." The Greek gentleman said while he picked up another piece of sushi. "Your voice has become a disturbance to this time I am enjoying with my new friend."
Feeling her face fluster upon such words, the lady took a few deep breaths to calm herself and finally landed her eyes on the girl sitting opposite her master. "I am sorry, you are…?"
"Oh hi, I assume you are this gentleman's friend?" Standing up from where she was, Miyabi smiled. "Here, take my seat, there are still plenty of sushi left."
Turning to the Greek gentleman, Miyabi said. "Well, looks like your friend is here so I better go. Hope you enjoy the rest of your stay in Japan."
Knowing her role of a helpful local is done, Miyabi waved goodbye at the two people and left the restaurant to continue her shopping.
After it was only the two of them left, the lady gave a long sigh. "Milord, why did you suddenly come here by yourself without notifying anyone. We can't risk putting you in danger especially we know this isn't our territory."
Instead of explaining himself, the man's deep blue eyes looked straight at the lady before him. "Pandora,"
"Yes, milord."
"The girl that just left," calmly putting another piece of sushi in his mouth the gentleman commanded. "Bring her to me."
Studying her shopping bags, Miyabi nodded in satisfaction that she was able to get enough supplies to last her for a while.
"Miyabi, we're finally done so will be heading your way soon."
In perfect timing, Miyabi heard Saga speaking directly to her cosmos. "Great, I am also done with my shopping, where should I meet you guys?"
"It's fine, we can sense your cosmos so we will teleport to you." Kanon replied.
"Alright, in that case I will head towards a quieter street so you guys can reach here without being seen." In consideration Miyabi said.
"Too bad Saga didn't get to enjoy the Japanese train experience." Miyabi could hear Kanon sighing. Indeed, Miyabi can't imagine what attention the supermodel looking twins will attract to themselves on the train.
Heading towards quieter streets so Saga and Kanon can teleport without being seen, Miyabi knew if she weren't a saint, probably as a normal Japanese girl, she most likely won't be heading this way. It was then, her cosmos sensed a person following after her. Not wanting to attract attention to herself, Miyabi used the skills she learnt from her training with Shaka and hid her cosmos and walked faster. To her surprise, she noticed despite that, the man was still able to follow her and the faster she walked, the faster the person followed, giving a clear indication she was the target.
Though she didn't want to engage in any battles, and wanted to ensure that she does not expose her status as a saint, Miyabi knew it was best to deal with the stalker quickly and quietly. Purposely heading into a dead-end street, Miyabi turned around and faced the man pursuing her.
"Good day," Standing before her was a tall man with platinum silver long hair, his long fringe hiding his eyes. Despite Miyabi couldn't tell what his intentions were, she knew it wasn't a friendly one.
"Why are you following me?"
Chuckling softly, the man's voice was surprisingly soothing as he spoke with such politeness. "Pardon me if I have frightened you. It was definitely not my intention to do so. I am only here to escort you to my master."
"Your master?"
"Yes, so if you could come with me willingly."
Studying the man more carefully, Miyabi frowned and shook her head. "I am sorry, but I don't think it's normal for a weak girl like me to follow a stranger. Therefore, I will have to refuse."
"In that case, I guess you gave me no choice. I will have to bring you to him even if I have to tie you up." Still with the same polite smile, in contrast the man spoke in such forceful words.
It was then, Miyabi immediately sensed the change of air around them and to her surprise, she saw as if there were strings coming towards her. Luckily for her, Miyabi was the Gold Saint proficient in controlling the air around her. Calmly moving her fingers, the sharp piercing air she produced successfully cut off the strings coming at her.
Not expecting the girl before him to be able to avoid his controlling strings, the man said. "Well, well, well, I was definitely not anticipating that." Brushing his fringe up, the man revealed a pair of honey yellow eyes that gleamed with such excitement. "This is going to be more fun than I expected. You will make such a beautiful doll."
Lifting his fingers, unlike last time, there were even more strings produced from his hand as they came in all directions towards Miyabi. By now, even Miyabi realised the man before her wasn't a civilian, but a fighter also like them. Upon such discovery, Miyabi knew she couldn't hold back as she too raised her arms and countered every string that came at her.
"Hahahaha, this is fun! Let's see if you can keep up with my speed." The silver-haired man laughed hysterically and like toying with the prey before him, the more Miyabi managed to cut off his strings, twice he would produce until it became like a network of net surrounding her.
Knowing the man wants a speed battle against her, Miyabi wasn't going to back down. Producing a net of attack was her forte, so when the man struck faster, she got faster too.
"Minos, quit playing. You know master hates to be kept waiting."
"You looked like you are struggling, do you need a hand?"
Miyabi's heart skipped a beat when she heard two other voices that spoke to them, and she could sense they were extremely powerful too. Knowing prolonging this battle will work against her, with a swing of her arms she sent billions of piercing strikes at the man before she quickly tries to flee.
It was then she sensed an enormous wind coming at her causing her to move back into the alley. Upon such distraction, one of the man's strings successfully caught onto her and like a chain reaction, thousands more captured her and against her will, like her body was being manipulated, Miyabi was pulled back to the silver-haired man.
"I finally caught you." Pulling Miyabi into his arms the man smirked.
Glaring up at the man before her, Miyabi noticed now she can see him up close, the man also inherits extremely good looks, yet his stunning honey brown eyes gleamed of such a chilling expression that caused her body to shiver naturally in fear.
"Aww, don't be scared. I just wanted to have some fun. I have never met a doll as interesting as you."
"I am not scared." Calmly Miyabi replied, reminding herself she is also Gold Saint. "Besides, you only caught me because you had help, if it's one on one, there's no way you could have caught me."
"Haha, she got you good, Minos." Finally showing themselves, were two other tall men. One in dark hair and honey colour skin, the other blonde with matching yellow eyes.
"Feisty, I see." Instead of getting upset with Miyabi's provoking words, the man whose name appears to be Minos leered as he lifted Miyabi's chin to face him. "But I do love that about a woman. This way you won't bore me."
"Unfortunately, I do not like you." Declaring so, Miyabi protested. "Let me go at once."
"Very well. Let's see if you can get away." Minos turned to the other two men. "Don't interfere this time. She is my prey."
Together with his words, Miyabi felt freedom returned to her body straight away. Not wasting anytime, Miyabi immediately made a run out of the alleyway when to her horror, Minos was in front of her. Backing away immediately, she already could sense Minos behind her.
Feeling her heart pumping faster in fear, despite being proficient in speed, this man Minos was somehow still able to trap her. The more she increased her speed, the faster he was able to get too. Though she was under strict order to not expose her status as a saint, it appears impossible to be able to free herself if she continued to hold back. At the same time, if she remembered correctly, Athena had signed a truce with Poseidon and Hades, so if she engaged in battle, she would be in direct violation of that treaty.
"I guess, time is up." While Miyabi was still struggling with what to do, she heard Minos' voice whispering by her ear. At the same time, she felt strings caught onto her arms and legs and once again against her will, like being controlled, her body walked up towards Minos.
"Has Three Judges of the underworld fallen corrupted beyond imagination? Three against one? This is why Spectres can't compete with Athena's saints."
Upon the voice, Miyabi felt her heart in elation when suddenly all the strings that was controlling her broke and appearing before her in a most protective manner were the Gemini twins.
"Saga and Kanon?" The other two who stood by and watched were definitely not expecting the appearance of the Gemini twins. The man with the short blond hair came forward and his eyes glaring at Kanon. "I am glad we get to meet again, Kanon."
Rolling his eyes in boredom, Kanon shrugged his shoulders. "Are you sure Rhadamanthys? I am tired of beating you again."
Immediately provoked by Kanon's words, Rhadamanthys pointed at Kanon. "Very well, we shall finish this battle between you and me and for once see who the true winner is."
"Hold on a bit," Coming from beside Rhadamanthys, the other man with the dark hair and honey skin reminded. "I think we are not allowed to engage in battle with the saints."
"Ho, so you guys do remember the treaty signed." Saga's perfect eyebrow raised in mocking. Holding Miyabi closer to him in a protective manner the Acting Pope continued. "Yet you dare to lay your hands on her?"
"Humph," crossing his arms, Minos chuckled. "This is interesting. For the current Pope and the Gemini Gold Saint to be so protective of this girl, it makes it that much harder to let go." Moving his eyes onto Miyabi like a hunter marking his prey, Minos said. "Now you make me want to take you home."
"Saga, forget the treaty." Kanon cracked his knuckles and stepped forward. "Since they started it first."
"You think with only two Gold Saints you can defeat the Three Judges of the Underworld?" Rhadamanthys asked, his eyes showing no respect for the two most powerful Gold Saints of all time. "We can crush you just like that."
"I don't think so," Raising her hand, the air around started changing as Miyabi declared in pride. "There are three Gold Saints here. If you think I will return with you, you better think again." Although always a polite timid girl, Miyabi was after all a proud saint of Athena. She will not allow anyone to speak ill of them.
Not expecting to see this side of Miyabi, Saga and Kanon exchanged a look as they both feel their heart warming up, not the slightest afraid of the three most powerful opponent they were about to face.
"Stop!"
Before the cosmos clash, a voice of authority interrupted them. Upon the interruption, the Three Judges immediately stopped what they were doing and crouched before the voice in respect. "Lord Hades and Lady Pandora."
Turning to the people that stopped them, Miyabi's eyes widened in shock to find it was the Greek gentleman she met at the sushi restaurant. Though Miyabi presumed him to be some high ranking officials, she would have never picked him for Hades!
Walking calmly towards her, Hades apologised. "Pardon the action of my Judges. It was not my intention to cause harm to you. As the King of the underworld, I would like to thank you for your kindness today. You have shown me what mankind can be like, and it was indeed correct for Athena to protect them."
Never in the world to expect Hades to thank her, Miyabi shook her head like mad. "No, it's okay I really didn't do much."
"What is your name, saint of Athena?"
"I, I am the Libra Gold Saint, Miyabi."
Gently taking a necklace off his own neck, hades placed it over Miyabi. "From today on you will be my most honoured guest. With this necklace, you will be free to come and go from the underworld as you please."
"What?"
"What?"
Not only Miyabi, even Pandora, the Three Judges and even Saga and Kanon called out in disbelief. As the god that rules over the underworld, Hades ignored the reactions around as he gently raised Miyabi's hand and landed a kiss on it. "I hope you will accept my invitation to visit me in the underworld. It shall be my turn to show you the best it can offer."
"I, I am honoured for the invitation." Miyabi squeezed out a smile. "But I don't think it will be a good idea for me to visit the underworld…"
"Why not?" A gentle smile came onto Hades' beautiful countenance. "I thought we are no longer at war?"
"It, it's true…"
"Very well, it is all settled then." Just like a god who makes decisions for everyone, Hades turned to his Lady official. "Pandora, let's return now."
"Yes, milord."
With that, Pandora, Rhadamanthys and Aiocos followed quickly after their master. However, before Minos joined them, his honey brown eyes landed once more on Miyabi as he smiled. "I look forward to your visit to the underworld, Libra saint, Miyabi."