"Happy Birthday granddaughter!"
Tsuki grinned. She smelled the smoked salmon as soon as she came down the stairs. She sat in her usual spot and prayed.
"Thank you, grandfather." The priestess immediately scooped some jasmine rice inside the bowl and grabbed the piece of fish with her chopsticks.
"Hmmm." Tsuki chewed in delight. Winter vacation was finally here. Within three weeks, she had plenty of time to catch up with school, train long hours with her grandfather, and maybe travel to Tokyo for a bit.
"So, Yusuke is going to train with Genkai-sensei," Grandfather Saito stated as he poured him and Tsuki a cup of green tea. "That lady is a tough one."
"He must win the tournament first. I'm sure he'll do fine. He seemed thrilled when he realized he was going to miss a week of school." Before he left, Yusuke with the assistance of Keiko, gave Tsuki a white spiritual candle. "He also has to find and capture a demon named Randou. He's been stealing a lot of secret techniques and using it against their masters."
"Genkai-sensei will set him straight. Yusuke needs a hard teacher. That boy is a wild one." Grandfather Saito sighed. "He should have no problem finding that demon though. I look forward to his progress."
"Me too," she admitted. "That boy got guts. He'll get stronger with the right teacher."
"Maybe you can train with her. I'm sure she can teach you a few tricks."
"I think I'll pass. Your training is already tough enough." Tsuki shuddered. "Plus, the things she's done to you. I couldn't bear meditating in a hard stone rock for 24 hours."
Grandfather Saito chuckled. "Training with her was indeed brutal. She was like an older sister that always put me in check, especially when we went to the Dark Tournament." His face turned serious. "Don't forget about this evening. I want your mind to be clear and refreshed. There can't be any interruptions at this ceremony."
"I understand."
"Are you nervous?" He asked.
"Yes, but excited. Things have been looking up." After successfully retrieving the treasures, the Human World was back to normal. Tsuki was relieved to focus her attention on herself.
"I'm glad. How's Keiko?"
"Great, she's happy that we finally have time to hang out. Our relationship has been rocky since Yusuke got revived." Even after the factory incident, Keiko was still being cautious around her and Yusuke, especially when Botan was around.
"Keiko is a nice friend, but there are certain things that we must keep secret as spiritual healers of the Human World."
"Yeah, I should get going though." After finishing her tea, Tsuki stood up. "I promise to meet her and Shizuru around 10. Thank you for the breakfast, grandfather."
"Enjoy your day. Make sure you get Inari's offering."
"Don't worry, I will," she replied, noting to herself to head to the market after they were done shopping.
Tsuki smiled and stretched her arms when she came outside. She was glad that this particular day was a little warm.
"Tsuki!" a familiar voice in the distance yelled. "I'm glad I caught you before you left!"
"Botan!" the priestess pronounced as she walked towards the shrine stairs. She watched the grim reaper glide to a halt. "What are you doing here? I thought you were with Yusuke?"
"Yes, but unlike Yusuke, I can easily teleport there. Right now, he's still in the preliminaries. I had time to drop this off." She went inside her pink kimono and tossed Tsuki a small jewelry box. "Happy Birthday from Lord Koenma and I!"
Tsuki beamed when she opened and observed her gift. The red and black stones were perfectly intertwined with gold findings. She lifted one. "They're beautiful!"
"These are spiritual earrings!" Botan exclaimed. "They assist in protection and enhance spiritual powers!"
"Thanks, I'll wear them right now." Tsuki easily clipped the earrings onto her ears. She posed to the side. "How do they look?"
"Beautiful! It goes well with your long skirt!" Botan flew higher and winked. "Well, I got to go. May your birthday be wonderful and full of surprises!"
"Thank you, Botan. I'll see you soon!" Today was already starting to be extraordinary.
"Happy Birthday Tsuki!" Keiko and Shizuru vocalized in perfect unison.
"Thanks!" Tsuki hugged them as she entered Kuwabara's house. "I hope you guys weren't waiting too long."
"Nope," Keiko commented, releasing from their embrace. "I just got here as well."
"You guys look gorgeous," Tsuki observed their outfits.
Shizuru smiled. She was wearing a feminine green blazer with matching pants. "Thanks. Red always looks great on you, Tsuki. Especially with that ivory sweater."
Keiko had on a pink dress with white leggings covering her legs. "Your earrings are pretty!" Her friend complimented. "Where did you get them from?"
"Botan, she gave it to me before she left on vacation."
"I see," Keiko bitterly muttered.
"Well, we should have a nice time hanging out for a bit once we get back from shopping. Kazuma isn't here to bother us," Shizuru exclaimed, unknowingly stopping their awkward tension.
"Where did he go?" Tsuki questioned. No wonder she didn't hear his loud voice.
She shrugged. "His powers have been increasing recently. Two weeks ago, he had a strange feeling that something terrible was going to happen in our city. Next thing I know, we hear on the news that children were mysteriously falling into a coma state."
"Oh yeah!" Keiko exclaimed. "I've heard about that too. Those poor kids. Miraculously, all of them felt better after a day or two."
"Right, so I read in the newspaper that Master Genkai was having a tournament in the mountains this week. The winner will be able to learn from her. Tons of rumors say that her spiritual powers are beyond what an average human can produce."
"Tournament? In the mountains? With Genkai-sensei?" Tsuki blinked. "What a coincidence, Yusuke is there too."
"The ghost boy, correct? That is a major coincidence. I didn't know he had strong spiritual powers."
"Me neither. Yes, Yusuke is odd sometimes, but he seemed pretty average to me." Keiko squinted her eyes. "Speaking of coincidence, where did Botan go?"
Tsuki sighed. There was no need to lie to her. She was going to find out eventually. "She went to the retreat as well."
Keiko rolled her eyes. "I can assume she has spiritual powers as well? You don't need to answer. Let's just go shopping. I'll wait outside."
"What was that all about?" Shizuru asked after Keiko silently put on her shoes and closed the front door. She put a cigarette inside her mouth. "It seems like Keiko isn't fond of this Botan girl."
"It's complicated. She thinks something is going on between Botan and Yusuke."
"Well, girls do feel a certain way if their crush is getting close to another girl, especially if she's cute. I'm sure once she gets to know this Botan, then Keiko wouldn't be so defensive."
"You're right. One of these days, we can all save a date to hang out together."
"I can't believe there was a huge sale at AMOR vintage!" Shizuru exclaimed as she walked through the busy crowd. "Usually they wait until January to sell their good stuff."
"I'm just happy to find some new leather boots from Berluti." Tsuki was thankful that she saved up her shopping money for this special day.
"Yes," Keiko agreed, clutching her plastic bag that was filled with new colorful dresses. "That was a sweet deal. Let's stop at the farmer's market and grab a bite to eat before we head back."
They walked casually, observing the stores that were selling their last bits of last season's merchandise. Some of the customers seemed ecstatic about the sweet deals.
"Tsuki," a voice called from behind.
"Shuichi!" Tsuki stated, making sure to say his actual human name. "What are you doing here?"
The fox demon lifted two large bags that were filled with vegetables, fruit, and meat. His bright yellow sweater made his red hair glimmer in the sun. "I'm shopping with my mother. She loves going around the market around this time. How about yourself?"
"Well, today is my birthday. I'm just hanging out with friends." She turned to the girls. "Keiko, Shizuru, this is Shuichi Minamino. He's a good friend of mine."
"It's a pleasure to meet you both," Kurama greeted as he gently placed the bag on the ground and shook both of their hands. "Happy Birthday, Tsuki. How old are you turning?"
"15," Tsuki boasted. "Today is the day that I become a full-fledged priestess. My grandfather is doing a small ceremony for me when I get back."
"Congrats. It must be exciting to take on new responsibility."
Keiko stepped in. "You've never told me about this ceremony, Tsuki. Weren't you worried about your freedom?"
"Yes," she admitted. "Now after careful thinking, I know I have a duty to serve in this world. I'll live my life while taking responsibility for the Saito shrine."
"Well, I'm just glad you and your grandfather are getting along better," her best friend acknowledged with a smile.
"True, families must stick together," Shizuru added. "Even though my brother annoys the hell out of me, I still care for the idiot. If the love is genuine, no issues can stop a family bond."
While they all nodded in agreement, a mature woman tapped Kurama's shoulder.
"Shuichi, I want to check out Miyu's flower shop befo-" His mother stopped and stared at Tsuki. "Oh! You're that nice girl from the hospital. It's great to finally see you again."
"It's great to see you too Ms. Minamino." Tsuki sincerely replied as they shook hands. The woman's face was glowing with her long ebony hair moving freely. Her red lipstick matched well with her rose dress. She looked healthier than she had ever been.
"Oh please, call me Shiori." She giggled. "I'm not that old."
"Mom," Kurama stated. "Today is Tsuki's 15th birthday."
"Really? Happy Birthday!" Shiori gave her a tight hug. "What are you doing after you're done shopping? You should stop by our place. It's not far from here. I'll make you a nice plate of hot beef stew. Your friends can come if they like."
"I would love that." Tsuki grinned from the cozy embrace. Beef stew was her one of favorite meals during the winter season.
"Great!" She turned to her son. "I'll meet you at the shop."
"Looks like I need to get your number." Kurama took his cell phone out. "Once my mother makes arrangements, I'm afraid it's going to be difficult to cancel."
After they exchanged numbers, he grabbed his mother's bag and waved goodbye. "It was a pleasure meeting you guys. I'll text you the address, Tsuki. We'll see you soon."
Tsuki waved back. She couldn't wait to eat some warm food. Even though the sun was out, it was still quite chilly in December.
She jumped a little when she spotted Keiko and Shizuru staring at her with amused glances. "Why are you guys staring at me like that?"
"So," Keiko arched her eyebrow. "How did you know him?"
"Through Botan," the priestess simply responded.
"Interesting, he sure is cute and tall. And look at his hair!" Shizuru paused and narrowed her brown eyes. "I don't think he's human."
Tsuki nearly had a heart attack. She didn't know Shizuru could read auras!
"Why would you say?" Keiko questioned. "Of course he's human. You just met his mother."
"Yes, I know that, but his energy is different from hers. He seems like a nice guy though," Shizuru included. "Not my type, but I'm sure he's your type, Tsuki."
"What?!" Tsuki felt the heat flowing through her cheeks. "Kurama is a gentleman. He's just a friend."
"Just a friend?" Shizuru teased.
"Yes, a friend!"
"Ok, we'll stop messing with you." Keiko clapped her hands. "Now, let's head to the car and discuss your type, Tsuki."
The flustered Tsuki grumbled while her friends giggled with excitement and anticipation.
"Welcome to my home," Kurama announced as he opened his door. "Please, make yourself comfortable."
The house was tidy and clean. Tsuki felt warm and cozy as soon as she took off her shoes.
"Great, you made it!" Shiori's eyes lit up. She was holding a bouquet of red carnations in her arms. "These are for you, Tsuki."
"Thank you." She blushed heavily. "You honestly didn't have to do that. Your hospitality was welcoming enough."
"Nonsense! You deserve to feel special on your birthday." She turned to Keiko and Shizuru. "I hope it was easy to find our home."
"Yes, and you don't live too far from my place," Shizuru replied. "You don't mind if I smoke?"
"As long as you do it outside, I don't see the problem."
"Is there any way we can help you?" Keiko asked. "I usually help my parents in the kitchen when we have guests or customers over."
"Well sure if you insist. Come put on an apron and help cut some carrots and celery for me. Tsuki and Shizuru can help Shuichi set up the dining table."
"Alright, Tsuki let me put these flowers in a vase," Kurama stated as he carefully grabbed the carnations from her. He trailed behind his mother and Keiko. "I'll be back with the tableware."
Shizuru whistled. "He has manners! Are you sure he's not your type? His mother is fond of you too."
"He's just a friend!" Tsuki urgently whispered. Kurama was a handsome and intelligent boy. However, she knew her lover was going to be the opposite of her. Kurama had a normal life that she was already familiar with. He was too safe for her.
A few minutes later, the fox demon comes back. "Is there something wrong?" He inquired as he gave an annoyed Tsuki the utensils, and a grinned Shizuru some napkins.
Tsuki glanced away from his angelic green eyes. "I was just telling Shizuru that you have a wonderful home."
Kurama smiled. "Why thank you. My mother has a beautiful touch." The priestess could hear the amusement in his calm voice.
"Where's Ms. Shiori's boyfriend? Will he be back soon?" Tsuki asked, purposely changing the subject.
"My mother's boyfriend is out of town. He will not be back until next Monday morning. I'm honestly glad he left. Ever since my mother came back from the hospital, he's been obsessively staying by her side." He chuckled and turned away. "I'll be back with some cups and water. "
The ladies began to set the tableware on the dining table.
"So, Tsuki." Kurama came back and placed the glass cups onto the table. "I've noticed at your shrine, you have a fox guardian. Her name is Inari correct?"
"Yes," Tsuki replied, knowing well he was referring to the factory incident.
"Interesting, do you know fox demons are descendants from fox gods?"
"Really?" She blinked. "I thought Inari was a typical guardian in spiritual mythology."
"Not exactly," Kurama explained, pouring water on each cup. "Your guardian is a fox god. Fox demons always show their human form. With spiritual guardians, they rarely show their true form to anyone."
"I didn't know that." Her grandfather never mentioned Inari's goddess form. Not even her mother. Inari has always been a mystery to her. She was sometimes playful but usually kept to herself.
"Yes, unless you can prove to the god or goddess that you have a sacrificial heart, they won't bother to show the fullest potential of their power." Kurama gazed into space. Tsuki guessed he was probably reminiscing about something important. "I've heard they're the perfect essence of beauty. I was fortunate to meet a goddess."
"You know about another shrine?" She questioned.
"Not exactly. The goddess I'm talking about was a demon. If you believe in that sort of stuff." He smoothly included as he sat down.
"Of course." Tsuki settled across from him. "Demon energy can possess and materialize into physical human form."
"That's so true. Every human is battling with an inner demon. Either we follow the light, or get consumed by the dark," Shizuru commented while placing the last napkin on the table. "I haven't seen your shrine, Tsuki. It'll be nice to go there."
"Shizuru, I've noticed you have a strong sixth sense as well. Do you want to do something with it?"
The mature woman tilted her head and pressed her lips together. "Hmm, I believe I'll be alright. My purpose here is to look out for my family, especially my brother. Once Kazuma heads to college, I'll be able to open my beauty salon. As for now, he needs to control his powers. My brother has the potential to do something good with it rather than being some punk roaming the streets."
"If I may add," Kurama remarked. "All humans have spiritual intuition. They just need to develop their spiritual energy."
"I wish it was that simple, Shuichi," Tsuki rebutted. "There's too much going on in the world. A lot of people are distracted by the material possessions of the Human World. Men created wars and poverty. Illness, violence, and death are increasing. As a spiritually attuned person, I couldn't fit in the normal society. I didn't care about the latest fashion, technology, or even money. My mother told me that the soul needs to grow spiritually to move on freely to their next life."
"I see your point. However, being with my mother and meeting you guys gives me hope in humanity. Not everyone is spiritually lost in this world. Even with Yusuke and your brother, Shizuru. They may be rebels to society, but they're honestly saying no to their oppression."
The priestess sipped her water, silently agreeing with his statement. She was fortunate to meet wonderful people that felt the same way.
"Here's some bread rolls for your appetizer." Shiori entered the room and placed the plate on the table. "Lunch should be done soon. The beef just needs to be tender."
Keiko sat next to Kurama and grabbed a roll. "The stew already smells great. May I get the recipe?"
"Sure, I'll write it down and give it to you once you leave. You're a wonderful assistant, Keiko."
"It was nothing. I'm glad I could help," she chimed happily.
"I can drop you and Keiko off once we're done here," Shizuru told Tsuki.
"Thanks, Shizuru."
"Alright, I'll be in the kitchen finishing the final prep. Shuichi, please come help me."
"Yes, mother."
The girls waited patiently for their meal. They didn't have to wait too long. About 30 minutes later, Kurama came out with the bowls.
"Now be careful everyone," Shiori warned as she placed the medium pot next to the bread rolls. She grabbed the ladle. "The soup is hot. Just to be on the safe side, I'll pour the stew."
Everyone received their proportion and prayed. There were a few minutes of silence while they ate.
"This is the best beef stew that I ever had," Tsuki truthfully declared.
"I agree." Keiko took another spoonful in her mouth. "It reminds me when my mom feeds me when I'm sick. Her food always makes me feel better."
"You got that right," Shizuru concluded. "I'm already feeling warm."
Shiori beamed. "I'm glad you guys like it. Eat as much as you like."
They talked about education and family. Shiori was shocked that Tsuki's parents were absent in her life.
"I'm so sorry to hear that. It must've been tough growing up without your mother and father."
"Yeah, it was," Tsuki confessed. "I'm grateful though. These 15 years of my life have taught me that I'm more blessed than I think."
"That's true. I tell Shuichi all the time that even though his father is deceased, he still has someone to guide him in this crazy world." She glanced lovingly at her son and squeezed his hand. "I'm lucky to have a good boy that didn't give me too many problems."
"I'm blessed to have a mother like you," he sincerely claimed. The girls smiled broadly at their bond.
Shizuru casually stood up. "Oops, I left something in the car. I'll be right back after I take a smoke break."
While she headed towards the door, Shiori was on her feet. "Well, it's time to clean up."
"I'll help you with the dishes," Tsuki offered.
"No, no, no!" Kurama's mother stubbornly shook her head. "The birthday girl can relax. Shuichi got me covered."
"Of course, mother." Kurama was already carrying some dishes towards the kitchen. "Ladies, why don't you make yourself comfortable on the living room couch. The TV remote is on the table."
"They're a loving family," Keiko acclaimed.
"Yes, maybe all of us can hang out again," Tsuki suggested. "That way, you can get to know Botan more. She's a good friend."
Keiko sighed as she sat on the couch. "I get that she's nice Tsuki. She was kind enough to introduce herself to me. I just don't understand the fact that she knows everything that Yusuke does. I knew him longer and I barely get a chance to see him nowadays." She glanced at the floor. "I wonder if the kiss even meant something to him."
"Keiko," Tsuki sat next to her. "Yusuke cares about you greatly. He just needs to find his path in life. School isn't for everyone. You see how the other students and teachers had treated him. Yes, he has me and you. However, we have our own life to deal with. You and I both want to go to college. And I'm literally becoming a qualified priestess in a few hours. I just think we're all just figuring out our lives right now. "
"If that's so, then why do I get the feeling that you're hiding something greater. My gut instinct doesn't lie, Tsuki. And the simple fact that I didn't know about your ceremony tells me we haven't been completely honest with each other. If you would've told me sooner, I could've visited and supported your performance."
Tsuki was speechless. Again, her friend was spot on.
"Look, I don't want to talk about this right now. It's your birthday. Our friendship is way more important than that. I'm still a bit annoyed by the way you guys have been acting toward me. Even though it supposedly comes from love," she paused and reached inside her brown leather bag. "I have a gift for you. Close your eyes."
Tsuki obeyed, anticipating what her thoughtful friend had given her.
"Open your right hand."
As soon as she did, the priestess felt a heavy object in her palm.
"Ok, I hope you like it."
Tsuki stared awed at the pink crystal. The edges were smooth as she rubbed it with her other hand.
"It's a rose quartz," her friend explained. "For love, friendship, and support."
"Keiko, it's lovely." She embraced her. "Thank you!"
"Tsuki, you'll always be my friend. I'm just glad I was able to share this wonderful experience with you."
"Me too, Keiko. Me too." The priestess began to stand up. "What's taking Shizuru so long? I'll go check in on her."
"Don't worry about her. She had an important call to make too."
"Oh ok." Tsuki sat back down.
They watched TV in comfortable silence for another ten minutes until they heard a knock at the door.
"Great! You're finally here. I'll get Mrs. Shiori and Shuichi." Keiko let Shizuru in and headed towards the kitchen.
"Happy Birthday, Tsuki!" Shizuru chanted, presenting her a strawberry shortcake. "Sorry that I took so long. I had to take another smoke break. You know how that goes."
"No, it's wonderful." The cake had the number 15 candle with fresh strawberries circling the whipped cream. Happy Birthday red icy swirled in the middle.
"Keiko made it," Shizuru proclaimed as she lit the candle with her lighter. "I had to make a quick stop since we came to eat here."
"The cake is beautiful, Keiko. You did a great job," Shiori complimented. Keiko and Kurama were right behind her. "Shizuru, you can put it on the table."
Tsuki gave each of them an appreciative look as they sang happy birthday to her.
I wish for a wonderful new year of spiritual growth and fulfillment. The priestess excitedly thought as she blew out the candle.
"I hope you had a wonderful birthday." Shiori hugged her again.
"I did. Thanks to you guys."
"Of course, a friend of Shuichi's is always welcome in our home. I'll get the knife so we can start eating this delicious cake."
After finishing up their proportions, the girls decided to head back to their selective homes.
"I'll wrap the cake up for you." Kurama's mother picked up the half-eaten dessert. "Keiko, why don't you follow me in the kitchen so I can give you the recipe."
"Ok, I'll meet you guys in the car. I'll bring your flowers too, Tsuki."
Shizuru waved at Kurama before stepping out. "It was a pleasure meeting you guys. Hopefully, we can do this again."
"Tsuki, here." Kurama gave her a paper bag. "You said you were doing a ceremony correct? Your guardian must need some food for her alter."
"Thank you." The priestess internally scolded herself for forgetting to go to the market. "You should visit our shrine. I'm sure my grandfather would like to meet you and your mother."
"Likewise, I hope you have an amazing ceremony. You're a powerful priestess and deserve to have a life that you truly cherish."
"I appreciate the kind words, Kurama." It was up to Tsuki to achieve her dreams. As Grandfather Saito told her not too long ago, nothing in life comes easy.
Tsuki took a shower first and then got dressed. Using a white ribbon, she tied her long raven hair into a low ponytail. From now on, no more loose hair. Her ceremony silk pearl jacket was decorated with cranes that scatter across her upper body. In the middle of her jacket, she tied a red ribbon into a perfect bow.
The priestess went to the Chōzuya to cleanse her energy. The cold water numbed her hands as she sipped and tossed the remaining water onto the rocks. After washing the handle, she got up and headed to the honden.
When she slid the door open, her grandfather stood strong in the middle. In front of him was his taiko.
"Welcome back. Did you have a great time with your friends?" He opened his arms, revealing a gold crown that was decorated with multiple flowers and tree branches. His pure white jacket contrasted well with his white kanmuri hat. They were both wearing the same red pants.
Tsuki strolled confidently towards him. She held her divine bells tightly in her right hand. "Yes, now I'm ready for the ceremony."
"That's great to hear, granddaughter. The new moon represents the start of the lunar cycle. New beginnings are coming your way. Whatever they are, you'll have the opportunity to achieve all of them. Now, do you accept your fate as a full-fledge priestess?"
"Yes," she confirmed.
"Good, now I present your goddess crown." Grandfather Saito stepped towards her and carefully placed the crown on her head. He stared in amazement. "You're now a shrine maiden."
She felt fuzzy as the immense power of spiritual energy swirled inside of her. Tsuki turned to her grandfather with curious eyes.
"The crown will increase the spiritual power of the wearer. From this point on, you'll have the energy of a true spiritual goddess. Adapt and allow the energy to flow through you."
She nodded and allowed the new powers to convey her body.
"Now let us begin." Grandfather Saito sat down and crossed his legs. He grabbed the taicho bachi and began banging his taiko. "Summon Inari."
"Inari," Tsuki spoke calmly. "Let's play."
The fox goddess presented herself. Her physical self formed slowly as she stood in front of her altar.
Tsuki presented the rice balls and bowed to the fox goddess.
Inari sniffed and chewed the food. After she was finished, the guardian licked Tsuki's face and wagged her two tails.
"I'm glad you like it." Tsuki had to thank Kurama before she headed to bed.
The priestess raised her divine bells high in the heavens as she channeled her new spiritual energy. As she swayed her arms, a myriad of gold bangles jangled to the rhythm of the mounting beat. Her brown eyes kept staring at Inari's innocent golden eyes.
While her tails swayed side to side, Inari circled the new shrine maiden.
They were one with the music. Grandfather Saito banged his drum while Tsuki twirled and rattled her divine bells.
The priestess was in pure delight. The music, the spirit, the dance. It was paradise. She was reaching higher to the gates of heaven.
Her grandfather banged faster. The ending was near. Tsuki twirled and glided until she met Inari into the middle.
The fox goddess touched her forehead before transforming back into her spirit form. She whirled for a few seconds and entered Tsuki's body.
The priestess swayed and proceeded to slow her movements. She finally stopped and bowed to her grandfather.
With the last bang on the drum, the ceremony was finished. Tsuki was officially a shrine maiden.