Hello. I added a bit i missed out in chapter 8
Hope you enjoy it
Kanon woke up not knowing where he was. He blinked lazily and looked around without moving. A golden ray of sun painted the opposite wall and brought light over the sleeping figure beside him
Mu laid there peacefully, with a hand across his stomach and the other arm shielding his eyes from the light. Kanon fell such peace at that time like he hadn't experienced before. It never occurred to him such a feeling existed. If only it would last forever…
But upon paying attention Kanon noticed something odd. For a saint that has fought at the brick of death more than once it wasn't rare to find a few scars marring that otherwise perfect pearly skin. But the scars in Mu's wrist were worrisome. Thinking about it, the Aries always wore armbands or bandages or both so his wrist were rarely ever visible. But there were so many cuts on it! Kanon slowly sat on the bed to reach out for Mu's other hand, and it was pretty much the same, only there was a single pink cut on it, like it was too recent to have completely healed. "So this is why Mu winced when held by the wrists..." Kanon was suddenly mad.
– Kanon? – His movements have woken up the Aries, who rose from the bed lazily – What's the matter?
– Mu, what are these? – Asked the Gemini holding the younger man's hand between them
– What? – Mu looked down at his own hands not really understanding what Kanon meant
– The cuts – Said the Hellenic
Mu looked down at the scars Kanon pointed out as if he wasn't aware they were there. He then checked out his other hand and shuddered when he saw the condition of his other wrist.
– Nothing. – Mu said finally trying to get out of bed quickly but Kanon didn't allowed it.
– They are not nothing, they are a lot. What are they about?
Mu was suddenly annoyed. He was about to shove Kanon away when he saw into his eyes and recognized the sincere concern in them. – Do you really want to know? – Since Kanon intense gaze didn't avert, Mu had no choice – If you stay around today you'll find out. But, I already requested Shaka to assist me, he should arrive shortly. Please do not interfere with him.
Mu stood up and went for a shower followed by Kanon
Why was Mu so uneasy telling Kanon what the scars were about? Although the Aries was never showing them off, he had never been so self-conscious about them either.
Noticing the sudden change in Mu, Kanon didn't asked any more questions. They got a shower, got dressed and went to the kitchen for breakfast. While Mu prepared it, Kanon set the table. He put four places, assuming the little imp would be arriving soon too. In fact, as soon as Kanon sat at the table, Kiki appeared in the living room.
– I'm back! Eh? – The kid was surprised to find Kanon there – Good morning...
– Morning... – And find it even weirder that his mentor was actually cooking something that early
– Kiki, please sit, I'll be done in a moment. Did you rest well?
– Eh, yes.
– Did you get breakfast?
– Not really. – Said the kid taking a seat. Kanon's presence made him uneasy – I wanted to be early in here...
– Thank you.
Then they felt Shaka's cosmos entering the temple.
– I'll get him! – Kiki jumped to the door
– Please do...
Not too long afterwards the Virgo saint entered the Aries private chambers followed by a stoic looking Aries apprentice.
– Good morning, Gemini...
– Morning... – It was weird to look into the Virgo's open eyes.
Contrary to what Kanon expected, as Kiki sat down again, Shaka went to the kitchen to check on what Mu was doing.
– Need any help? – He said approaching the fridge
– No, thanks.
The Virgo turned to the fridge and took out a small amphora he took to the table along with the pot of coffee he noticed in the counter. He then sat down. Mu came back with a toasted bloomer cut in half stuffed with what looked like an omelet.
– How much would you like? – Asked Mu to Kanon placing the knife ready to cut the weird sandwich.
– Like that is ok
So Mu made the cut and gave his share to Kanon, he then cut to narrower slices giving them to Kiki and Shaka, and he took the last one.
Mu was as lazy as the Gemini to follow specific recipes, so he would just grab the first thing available and throw it to the pan, with enough care for it not only to be edible but to also taste good. The main problem was repeatability, he was mostly incapable of pulling out the same dish twice. On this particular time, the omelet was delicious but Kanon couldn't figure out all the ingredients.
– Which cloth would you repair today? – Asked Shaka serving himself some juice from the amphora in a glass.
Mu served Kanon coffee and then took some for himself, then he added milk but not sugar. Shaka didn't like how his friend didn't offered them to the Gemini, meaning he knew what Kanon liked.
– Lyra
– So it was found? How is it?
– Angelo recovered it a while ago. It took him long to find it... it's ruined, that's why I left it to the last
– So there are no more challenging repair works? – Shaka looked relieved
– No, this is it. Kiki have you studied the notes I passed you?
– Yes – Kiki had a mailman bag Kanon hadn't noticed. The kid took out a large notebook from it and passed several pages until the end to show them to Mu. The Aries took the notebook and checked it with attention
– I'm glad you have been paying attention, because you are working on this one too.
– What? For real? – Kiki was both exited and scared
– I don't think we'll get any more chances to do such extreme jobs, at least I hope so. So we better take advantage of it
Kanon remained silent. He knew Mu was the only smith capable of repairing the cloths and Kiki was his apprentice. He had felt their cosmos burning while the sound of the hammer filled the workshop but he never dared go anywhere near it fearing any disturbance might ruin their work. So how exactly the repair was accomplished and how was it related to his earlier question, he had no idea. But it had to be related and so he unconsciously frowned in concern. What bothered him the most was Mu requiring someone else's assistance in the process.
Once they finished, Kiki put away everything with his telekinesis while Mu took a small case that he gave to Shaka. Then they followed the Aries to the workshop in solemn silence. Kanon could not shake the feeling that something dangerous would happen, then he remembered Mu made him promise not to interfere and so he tensed up.
Mu opened the door to the workshop and they went in. That was the first time Kanon ever set foot in there. It was a wide space with a desk under the only window in the far end and a few pandora boxes orderly placed against the other wall, the cloths in them might be waiting for maintenance too. The middle of the back wall called the Gemini's attention but he wasn't sure why, there was something odd about it. Willing to keep his promise, he remained by the door while Kiki left his bag on the desk and took a large book and the Lyra box to the center of the room, Shaka put the case also in the desk and went to the washbowl to wash his hands while Mu approached the suspicious looking wall. As soon as the Aries touched it, the bricks moved aside revealing a hidden vault. In there, Mu kept the tools and materials for the cloths repair. Mu set the materials near the box and gave the belt with the tools to the kid. Since it was too big for him to wear he used it across his chest. By the time Shaka approached them with the case, Mu opened the box.
– It's pretty much destroyed – Said Shaka incapable of hiding his concern – It's hard to believe it can be repaired.
– Yes it can. – Said Mu sitting down. The Virgo kneeled down next to him
– Of course the first step is sorting out the puzzle, it took us almost a week – Kiki opened the large book and began checking stuff on it – There's several pieces missing
– This is as much as Angelo found.
Kanon hadn't paid attention to the Indian in the least. He was surprised when he put an elastic band from the case on Mu's arm.
– Any more questions Kiki? – Said Mu while Shaka applied a cotton soaked in alcohol to the Aries arm.
– Not really. – The kid left the book open in the floor. And took the tools – I'm ready
– Then let's begin
Kanon was stunned when he saw Shaka apply a needle to Mu which he held with tape. It was connected to a tube which the Indian connected to a larger tube and directed it to the cloth and the materials. Mu's blood rained over them for Kanon's utter shock but as he promised he didn't move a muscle. Both master smith and apprentice cosmos began burning higher than the Gemini ever felt before. The material, the tools and the cloth began resonating and the scattered pieces took their places on their own.
The star powder began floating around the smiths, the orichalcum shone bright. Both components mixed together with the gammanium by the workers' cosmos. Kanon felt as if gazing into a newborn galaxy as it all spiraled to join the shards building up the Lyra cloth.
Kiki started by hitting each cloth piece a few times as if to put it together before fully repair it. It took him a lot of effort to get them not to shatter again. The chest piece was quite the challenge since it had a large hole that had to be filled first. Every now and then the kid looked down at the book and kept working. Mu did nothing but to observe while his cosmos kept the material malleable.
After a while, Shaka removed the needle from Mu's arm and placed a band to stop the blood flow. Mu kept his hand up as his friend picked up and washed everything.
Kanon could not understand how Mu could hold up his cosmos burning like that after losing so much blood. Although pale, he didn't look like stopping or toning it down. Shaka returned quickly and began meditating next to his friend. Kiki kept working diligently until he had the cloth assembled although it still needed lot of work. How long had it been?
– Kiki... – Mu's voice was soft. It took the Virgo out of his meditation and made the kid stop his work – Remember to clean up before you go. – He said just before fainting in Shaka's arms.
The Indian lifted his friend from the floor. Kanon, who by then had sat in the floor, stood up and opened the door for them when the Virgo approached
– Thank you – Said Shaka walking by him in his way out. Although he wanted to follow them, there was no point on doing so. If that was indeed the way to fix damaged cloths, then this was mere routine given how many of them were damaged and how many of those were already fixed.
– Do you need to do that every time you repair a cloth? – Said Kanon to Kiki while he approached the work to see it closer
– Eh? You mean giving blood? – Kiki hadn't liked the idea of having Kanon in the workshop, although the kid forgot about him once he started working – No. It is only to revive the cloths – The young apprentice moved all around the place cleaning up.
– Revive them... – Kanon mumbled checking up close the filled up cracks in the Lyra cloth
– Half a person's blood is required to bring back to life a cloth as damaged as this one. Ideally the bearer would be the donor but when they are not available or they need to use it right away...
– Mu had to do it
For the first time ever Kiki got clear readings of Kanon thoughts. They were sad and dark, but most of all concerned.
– Making the repair itself is pretty demanding. One shouldn't be donor and smith at the same time, it's too dangerous and one risks doing a bad job. – Kiki kept cleaning up – He had to help pope Shion on the works at some point, but lately he does it so I can practice. Luckily it's not so painful now that we got the kit from the clinic and Shaka's help... – He then stood by his work to appreciate it – I'm sure he could have repaired it in one go – He said with a mild disappointed sigh before putting the cloth to rest in its box – At least the worst its done. – Kiki put the large book on the desk and took his bag. Kanon followed him outside and he locked the door.
– Good night, imp. – Said Kanon walking down the way to the training fields
– Good night... – Kiki didn't know if he should be mad or not by being called imp. He shrugged and went into the temple to meet his mentor.
The following week, for the first time in a long period, the coliseum was pretty much in silence
Of course the saints in the underground gym were working out as usual, but the arena was used for a different kind of training. It was Shaka's class. All cadets and saints present were trying their Adho Mukha Svanasana yoga pose as the Virgo saint gave them instructions and the Libra, Aries and Leo saints demonstrated at the front. This was the first class other gold saints helped and joined since Aquarius and Pisces were also in the rows.
The Virgo was clearly annoyed, but it was rather because he was pretty much being forced to teach the class than the fact most of the students were terrible at it. Mu and Dokko excelled at the exercises, closely followed by Aioria, Shiryu, Shun and the rest of Shaka's disciples. Then there was a gap down to Camus and Aphrodite, followed by an abyss down to everyone else. And the Indian could not comprehend how was it possible that such unbalanced bunch had been donned the saints cloths to begin with. How do they even wear them? But worse than that, why he'd care?
Up in a balcony, which happened to be windy and shadowed, Milo and Kanon were taking a break from their workout. How did the Scorpio drag the Gemini all the way to the coliseum was a complete mystery. And from all the way up there, they watched the class
– I get tired just from watching that... – Mumbled Kanon with his eyes fixed on Mu. Milo's silence got his attention. The Gemini noticed his friend could not avert his eyes from Camus – What? Are you planning to join the yoga club only to get a piece of that? – He grinned
– I'd like to spend more time with Camus. But that looks painful – Milo didn't seem to catch what Kanon meant
– Maybe so, but that out to be terrific under the right circumstances – Ok, that one was too obvious for Milo to ignore
– Aren't you mistaking yoga for kamasutra? – He replied, side glancing him and rising an eyebrow
– Mmm... Maybe. Would the sanctuary Casanova care to illustrate the difference?
– Eh? Casanova me? – That was unexpected
– Who else?
– Where do you get such ideas?
– Modesty makes you no favors or are you really that clueless? You are quite famous
– I've never been fond of gossip, – Milo blushed up and got a bit annoyed – You should know better than listening to it. – He said a bit worried and curious, pretending not to care
– I don't listen to gossip, I observe the gossipers and the gossiping process. You have no idea when those can come handy.
– Manipulation tactic number what?
– That's too basic to even have a number... It seems the Sanctuary is the playground of a mean scorpion with a sting like a hook that not only envenoms his victims, but hinders their escape... – Kanon repeated something he heard. Milo looked in his direction – His golden color makes it easier to spot, so it should be easy to avoid, sadly it far too appealing for the greedy ones and fools who mistake him for real gold.
– What does that mean? That I'm a player seducing saps out of nothing else to do? – Milo was real mad.
– I'm just repeating what I heard. Before you get mad, think about anyone you made mad and why.
– Can't think of anyone.
– Seems to me someone you hook up with had a very hard time overcoming the break up. What happened, instead of discouraging others, became a dare to try their luck. But you proved to be too difficult to handle. Eventually everyone reached the conclusion you are not worth the effort, just nice to look at.
– I'm telling you I can't think of anyone I treated so poorly. – Worried, Milo made some serious thought about it
– A friend or fan of an old conquest, perhaps, hates you enough to spread such rumors...
– ... The only one I've been ever seriously involved with is Camus – He mumbled still trying to recall
– What? – Said Kanon grinning
– What what? – Said Milo confused. Then after Kanon's grin widened Milo blushed to the root of his hair and stood up. – That's the actual piece of information you were after, you prick!
– You don't deny it? So you have been intimate...
– Go ask your gossipers! – Milo sat down hiding his blush on his blond curls
– If they had something to say, I would have already known. A fine piece of gossip like that would go around the world like fire on gunpowder. So, congratulations on your discretion, I'm impressed it lasted this long.
– What do you mean "lasted this long"? – Milo looked at Kanon furious – You sure you are not the one spreading rumors?
– Not now. What for?
– Not ever!
– Ok, ok. Why would I?
– You tell me
– Relax, won't you? Jeez. I gain nothing from spilling the beans
– Maybe not, but you would from blackmailing me
– Do you honestly think I'd do that to you?... – Kanon gave Milo an skeptical look. Since the Scorpio didn't look away, the Gemini added shrugging – Maybe for a free meal every once in a while
– See? – Milo crossed his arms
– But I don't need to, do I?
– ... Not really... – Thinking about it, no. Milo had invited Kanon to lunch really often
– See? – Kanon laid back and added softly – Things haven't changed much. There are not that many people I get along with, so I wouldn't risk the few who tolerate me... – That made Milo feel guilty, – I can't believe you truly don't pay attention to the people around you when you are out. there's always more than one drooling zombie watching your every move… – but Kanon continued with a large grin – Now tell me, when did that happened?
Milo blushed up again and answered nervously – The first time was before he went away to train Hyoga and Isaac...
– The first time? – Milo blushed up even further – So you are regulars.
– How do you know?
– Oh, I'm just saying random stuff, you are not denying anything – Milo looked away – Alright. I hope you take good care of each other
– Of course! – Roared Milo. – Who do you think we are?!
Camus turned in the direction on which he thought he heard Milo, but didn't saw anyone. Thanks to the illusions, Kanon didn't want to be disturbed.
– If you keep being so loud, I won't be held responsible if your little affair goes public
Milo sat down, again looking away
– What we do is none of your business...
– I'm not looking for specific details anyways – Said Kanon. it was a bit difficult for him to think on his little friends that way, to him they were still kids – What exact interest do you have on him? – Continued Kanon, disregarding Milo's embarrassment
– None of your business!
– Do you love him? Are you officially a couple? Does he love you at all?
– What is it to you? – The Scorpio glared at the Gemini, but he couldn't care any less
– Well, I never imagined such wimpy jumpy boy would grow up to be such eye candy. – Said Kanon turning to the arena with a not so innocent expression on his face. – So I had been wondering, especially after watching such display, – He meant the Uttana shishosana pose they were practicing down there – If he'd be half as good as he looks.
– Stay away from Camus! – Jealousy was taking over Milo
– Or what? – Defied Kanon calmly – If you are nothing but friends, the only one entitled to keep me away from him is himself. So? What's your relationship?
Milo opened his mouth to answer, but his judgement sank in and caught any out of line words his ego would bust out his mouth. Kanon didn't like the gesture one bit and frowned
– I don't know... – Admitted the Scorpio looking down
– What do you mean you don't know...? Friends with rights?
Some sort of anger bubbled in Milo's stomach at his inability to object. Kanon pondered the situation
– That was not nearly the answer I expected considered how you are always all over him every time he's close.
– All over him…?
– I'm only asking you out of respect, others wouldn't be so considerate, wouldn't even be aware of your relevance into the matter. Do you know that?
Milo fell silent – ... Do you really like Camus that way? – He muttered instead
– Can't deny I do, but be at ease. I got my eyes a little bit to the right of him. – Said Kanon looking at Mu. Milo blinked and looked down wondering who the Gemini meant. – I was just making a point.
Milo suddenly realized that Kanon's intention was to first assess the exact relationship between his friends, to then make the Scorpio realize he should be paying more attention to the Aquarius, because if he didn't maybe others would. – Why can't you never go straight to the point?
– If you are not straight forward with me, I can't be straight forward with you.
– It didn't occurred to me you'd care...
– Thanks...
Kanon was offended, he didn't say a thing but Milo noticed. And suddenly he felt he wasn't being discrete about his relationship with Camus, he had been hiding it, like it was a bad thing... Was it?
It was.
– I didn't want us to look like perverts or a libertines. We are gold saints... – Screwing each other with no further gain was nothing to be proud about.
But if anyone had ever cared about them, their safety and wellbeing, in his own twisted way, it was Kanon. So... It should be ok to talk with him about it, right? Kanon didn't replied right away.
– The one I'm more concerned about is Camus – Continued the Gemini in a softer tone – He's got a very poor popularity score. How much of what I've heard is true?
– I'm not sure of what you've heard... – Milo clenched his fists. As Kanon looked at him, he proceeded to relate everything that happened between them while their friend was gone, more painfully their fight at the ice world. The Gemini listened as the Scorpio began venting his frustration, confusion and heartache. He had been keeping it all bottled up for the sake of new beginnings but truly his relationship with Camus wasn't going anywhere.
A terrible silence came over both friends when the younger finished.
– Why haven't you talked with him about this? About how you feel?
– I thought I did, but it didn't worked. If anything the ice wall around him got not thicker but more difficult to see through… would he even care? – Milo was exhausted – After all that's happened, if he just I'm–sorry me again...
– Are you aware of what you are implying? If you think he wouldn't care, you should leave him. Not to tease him or test him. Just leave him. How is it possible you volunteered to be his doormat? You are a gold saint! You owe yourself some self–respect.
– I wish it gone. – Said the Scorpio – All I want is to put all that behind us so we... – Milo sighed not finishing the sentence
– Get a chance? – Milo nodded – What kind of chance do you expect? The chance to see into each other's eyes in an open field and merrily hop into each other's arms, so you can kiss at sunset?
– Don't be so corny
– Then?
– I don't know.
– Every second Camus is standing in front of you IS a chance you are letting go waiting who knows what for. Camus cares. I'm ready to bet he does nothing but care. But he is not a people person, dealing with his own emotions is pretty difficult, much more with others. So if you don't give him any pointers, don't expect him to do right. If your interest in him goes anywhere beyond his bed, you should put your act together and do something about it. – Milo had nothing to object. They both remained silent looking down to the class, which had increased difficulty – Camus and I are very similar. – Kanon soft tone made Milo look at him – We can't just put things behind. You can't just ignore what happened, Milo. Because that's what made him the person he is now, for better or worse. If you truly care about him, you can't just take what you like and discard the rest. There's just one Camus, the traitor, the liar, the stubborn, the cold and indifferent, the fearful and insecure... As I told you before, you need to take the beer glasses off and see him by what he is, a mess of a person. And after you do that, ask yourself if you truly want to be with someone like that. If you find the answer is negative, then let him go because anything you try would only hurt him more. He has no need of superficial relationships in which he only fills a role, trying to keep up with that would take a very high toll for him. If the answer is positive then let him know because he is never going to realize it on his own, he is too self–absorbed in his misery.
– So many things have happened – Said Milo after a while – I'm not sure if I love him or if I'm only obsessed with him. When he went away to train Hyoga and Isaac, I did tried to meet new people, I mean, we had nothing to keep us from scouting new horizons. He left without even a proper goodbye, without letting me know if he was going to come back… But I didn't get far with anyone. I suppose that's when the rumors about me began. In retrospective, I might have hurt more than one in the process, so I can't blame them. But it would have been worse to take things further with no serious intentions. It would have been more than disrespectful to be with someone while thinking of someone else. So I quit it. I could not take him out of my mind. I don't know what to make of this. All I know is that I want to be with him – There it was, Milo's determination brimming in his eyes – But more than that, I want to be there for him. I can't bear to see him alone, much less suffer alone. I'd like him to be happy and I with him if possible, like it was when we were young and you were with us. If I'm being childish, so be it. But I can't stop worrying and caring, wishing I could do more and getting frustrated at being at a loss.
– The clock is ticking, Milo. – The Scorpio nodded. – And it's all up to you… – Kanon stood up as if ready to leave. Milo did the same and walked towards the exit. – On a separate note, there's something you should know
– What is it? – Said Milo turning around to get blasted out of the coliseum by one of Kanon's attacks. He landed horribly several stories bellow. Kanon fell right next to him and leaned down to whisper to him – I'm pretty mad at you. Scorpio Milo is not a person to toy with. Even if it was Camus, even if it wasn't his intention, I can't overlook you let him do this to you. – The Gemini grabbed him by the hair and pulled him up before everyone's puzzled looks. The class had just finished and everyone ran outside as soon as they identified the Gemini as the aggressor. – Defend yourself! – Before anyone could do anything, Kanon blasted Milo away again, the Scorpio barely managed to cover himself with his arms, but was still send flying several steps away.
– Kanon… what the heck? I'm not fighting you again… – Said Milo sitting down on the floor.
– You sure about that? Alright… – Kanon sat down and concentrated until his half closed eyes glowed gold. Then his astral projection stood up, grinned evilly and vanished.
– Huh? What? What are you doing?
– Golden triangle! – He said, but nothing happened. Yet Milo stood up like lightning followed by Kanon.
– What have you done to Scorpio? – He threw a punch but missed his target since Kanon moved aside – Give her back!
– Make me – Said Kanon grinning.
At that very moment Saga, Shion, Dokko and Athena appeared
– What is going on? – Said Shion to the rest
– Kanon is picking a fight with Milo. – Said Shaka
– He send the Scorpio cloth away – Said Saga really mad. The others were amazed.
Kanon didn't even turned to Saga. His presence annoyed him, but he had to focus in the matter at hand. He only hope he wouldn't interfere.
Milo grinded his teeth
– I'm not falling for your games, trickster. Scorpio! – Milo made his cosmos burn calling for his cloth… to no avail
– She is not coming. Scorpio is having a nice quality time with older sister Gemini at Sea Dragon's five stars resort. You think she'll miss that for the likes of you? Think twice.
– Darn you!
– If you want her back, you ought to outbid me. What do you have to offer her, Applehead?
– Scarlet needle! – Milo attacked Kanon, but not one single needle landed on their mark. Instead Kanon send him flying again.
– If that's all you've got, no wonder you can't call back Scorpio.
– Kanon, quit being a jerk… – Milo stood up again
– Huh? I thought I heard something… – Said Kanon turning his back to Milo
– Kanon!
– I must be imagining things – He shrugged and began walking away
– DON'T FREAKING IGNORE ME! – Milo's cosmos rose dangerously to release it in his crimson blast. But all of a sudden he stopped.
– Sure it's a hot day for autumn – Said Kanon looking up at the clouds
Milo was stunned in place, he would not move. Then Camus stepped forward
– It's only an illusion! Don't fall for it! – As soon as he said that. Camus became dizzy and fell to his knees.
– You getting involved only rises level of difficulty – Said Kanon to Camus without turning on his direction.
As the other saints helped him, Saga stepped forward to deal with his brother but Shura stopped him.
– There's no need to turn a game into a catastrophe. Let them handle him.
– But he took Scorpio and Gemini out of the Sanctuary without authorization!
– Milo should be able to recall it. If he couldn't, something else is going on. Let them handle this.
Shura had a point, it was by no means normal a gold saint could not recall his cloth despite the distance. Cancer had been the only one so far to ditch its bearer only to retake him later on. So Saga let them be.
"It was Camus the one worried about not being able to wear his gold cloth and now Scorpio won't come to Milo". Shura was deeply concerned and he knew Kanon was too.
But Milo managed to shoot a scarlet needle, of course he missed the target.
– That trick is getting old. – Said Kanon suddenly appearing before Milo – It's about time you come up with something else. – And sent him flying again only to dodge an ice burst.
Camus was in all fours trying to stand up, with all the other saints around. But he fell to the side.
– Camus, what is he doing? – Asked Saga
– He is making everything spin. I can't stand up…
– Messing up with his equilibrium through illusions?
– Clever indeed – Said Shion.
– It sure brings back memories... – Said Shura. Saga nodded.
Since the effect of the illusions was greatly visual, Camus closed his eyes and sprinted forward. His punch was immediately blocked by Kanon's arm, but that let Milo stand up and join the fight. They exchanged blows but, because Kanon suddenly vanished, Milo was about hit Camus, good thing he reacted on time and dodged... For a moment both stayed on guard.
– What? Did you lost something? – The Gemini appeared to their right but when they turned to attack, once more Milo was frozen still and Camus fell down.
Again the Aquarius closed his eyes and tried to stand up but he found it difficult. Why? And why couldn't he locate Kanon through his cosmos?
– What do you think of my enhanced illusions? – Camus wanted to throw a punch to his left, but he sensed Milo's presence there and stopped. Then he felt as if the floor under him was pulled forward.
– The hell are you doing?
– The usual! Just worst. You ought to thank Ikki for the improved experience, he is a great assistant.
– Weren't your illusions limited to visual imagery? – Asked Camus
– Not anymore.
– That is very dangerous – Said Dokko, Shion agreed.
– Thanks for volunteering to the test! I had been willing to try it on someone for a while now. We have quite an audience today. I'm just hoping you won't choose passing out, throwing up or running away as options to end this. Think of your fans! Bullying you is not as fun as it used to be, so if you surrender and invite me dinner for a week, you'll end up looking mildly bad but will spare us finding out what you ate this morning. Of course, if you choose to continue I'm really going to make you look bad for life.
Kanon could vaguely feel Saga's thoughts as if someone where whispering at his back. He hadn't paid them attention enough as to know what they were about, but he was getting tired of them.
– Kanon, stop this nonsense already, it is so disgusting! I…
Milo was sent flying and Camus with him. Under the fooling around, the Aquarius sensed a deep anger within the Gemini
– Milo, – called Camus standing up – Kanon is very pissed off, what did you do?
– I'm not sure.
He vanished again. Both saints stood up paying attention to their surroundings
– Why is he so difficult to locate?
– I can't feel his cosmos…
Camus held his head victim of severe nausea. Everything around him was spinning out of place. He had to cover his mouth and put a hand in his stomach in an attempt to avoid throwing up.
– Camus, this is between Applehead and me. – The Gemini appeared next to him – Leave while you can. I promise I won't hurt him… much…
– I won't! Diamond dust!
– Fine by me. – Kanon gave them several hits at the speed of light – I'm not so happy with you either.
Camus looked out of combat but Milo managed to step forward and attack Kanon,
– Leave him alone! – Yet his movements were very slow for a gold saint. He finally threw a punch that wouldn't even hit a cadet. He looked about to throw up too. – Kanon, this is revolting…
– It is indeed. I made it especially for you. – And Kanon vanished again
– Stop it at once!
– Beat me first or beg me to spare you and feed me for a week. At this rate the second option looks like your only choice.
– I won't!
– I'm not sure if that's either stupid, brave or masochist, but who am I to judge? – Milo froze still again and Kanon beat him badly, but the Scorpio didn't answer the attack
– You want me to fight you… but I don't see the point of doing so.
– Well, that's more your problem than mine. Because actually there are three good reasons you should. The first one is obviously because I won't give you Scorpio otherwise, that should be enough. – Kanon sent Milo flying – The second one is because if you somehow manage to walk away from here with you breakfast still in your stomach, there be no opponent capable to bully you other than me. Imagine what would happen if some invader where to use this against you in a real battle?
– Is Milo scared of something? – Asked Saga to Shura
– Like a phobia? No, to my knowledge.
– Gimme a break! – Said Milo standing up again – What are the odds?
– We can't rely on odds if we are to fulfill our duties
– You found out on sheer absurd luck!
– Luck also plays part on battles
– I guess he does have phobia to whatever Kanon is showing him. – Said Aphrodite – I wouldn't have imagined it.
– Don't expect me to thank you for the lesson – Said Milo to Kanon
– Ingrate, but I'm not surprised.
– Kanon was making Camus dizzy but he is showing something else to Milo – Said Mu – He can show different things to different people simultaneously!
The spectators were amazed…
– How can this be an illusion? – Milo closed his eyes
– Is it?
– of course it is! You have no other way of doing this! This is just an illusion. Only an Illusion! – He told to himself and moved forward to attack
– It's not only an illusion. It's my illusion! If you keep saying yourself that, I'll consider wasting a day or two gathering some just to throw them in your bed while you are asleep.
– What a way to become homeless… – Mumbled Milo, all colors left his face as he put a hand to his mouth
– You just pictured that, didn't you?
– Kanon you will pay for this
– Stop talking big. You can't even find me, and I'm not even trying. Quit already, and let's go get lunch. Well, just me anyways, you are free to starve your nausea.
– Milo, you are making it worse! – Said Shura – Ignore the illusions!
– Easier said than done – Said Kanon – Can you feel that Milo?
The Scorpio shuddered.
– Curse you, Kanon! – He rose his cosmos horrified. Shura noticed how Kanon smirked. Was that his objective? – To me, Scorpio!
– Gemini! – As the gold cloth covered Milo, Kannon summoned his own – now that we are dressed up for the dance, what beat should we play…? Huh?
– Your illusions won't work on me anymore. Scarlet needle!
Kanon evaded every single attack. Right then Camus came back to his senses and stood up
– Just when I thought you'll surprise me, you disappoint me. Darn, it took me a lot of effort to improve my illusions, guess I still need to work on them. Thanks for the feedback, tho! Your participation in my test has been of great help, I knew I could count on you. I promise you to tune them up for our next fight. Now let's end this one!
– Aquarius! – Camus dressed up as well
But all of a sudden, Kanon got rid of Gemini.
– What now? – Said Aioria.
– Camus, do you have any idea what I've been showing Milo all along?
– What? – Camus blinked confused
– Don't you dare! – Milo turned red of both shame and anger
– Yeah, the only thing in this world that would stop a gold saint in his tracks without even a fight… If there weren't this much people in here, I bet Milo would have ran away at light speed from the start
– In your freaking dreams!
– You must agree with me such a phobia is a terrible weak point
– It is…
– So Milo, what do you think our emotionless iceberg's reaction would be once I show him? – Milo rushed forward – Do you think he would laugh? – but Kanon evaded every single attack – Or get so annoyed he will either punch you, or leave in offended silence? – Kanon's illusions were making Milo miss – There's also a chance he would just disregard our existence for wasting his time... – Kanon moved away – Then again he is a rather compassionate fellow, he might even give you a pat in the back and encase in the library trying to find a way to help you. – Kanon attack sent Milo towards Camus – Then again you have been friends since like forever. I can't believe he doesn't already know. This is no news.
– None of that! You just demonstrated you can show different stuff to different persons at the same time. Whatever you show him, he knows better than believing a trickster. You might as well show him some butterflies or whatever stupid thing crosses your mind first.
– But he is got a point, Milo
– Let's talk about that later… Okay, you want me to show you what I've been up to lately? Granted, but don't tell me I didn't warn you. Camus, stay back! – He said while rising his cosmos again. – Antares blast!
Milo released a rain of Antares needles on the area that turned the environment bright red for a moment. Kanon called Gemini to protect himself and broke through the needles rain to meet both his opponents, who were reading an attack.
But Camus and Milo stopped just before their attacks connected. Kanon's cosmos had dropped completely. He wasn't even paying attention to them anymore. Had they hit him, it would have ended real badly. The friends exchanged looks.
Before Kanon there were only a pair of kids of seven or so years old. They both were looking up to him wearing training robes. The whole coliseum looked different, better maintained. And a lazy winter sun was about to set.
Mu side glanced Saga
Fists clenched, Kanon closed his eyes to drive that thought away.
– What a dangerous timing.
Mu stepped forward immediately
– Kanon?
– Keep your damn thoughts to yourself! – He said glaring at Saga
There was an intense burst of cosmos, not only from Kanon
– Om!
But from Mu and Shaka
As Kanon fell to one knee, Mu hurried to his side, but…
– It is not like you to be so reckless, Aries Mu. – Called Shaka, who had opened his eyes – Have you no idea of the danger implied?
– I have, Virgo Shaka. – Said Mu stopping but not turning around – I truly appreciate your support on this one.
– Are you sure you want to hold this position?
– Thanks for your concern, but there's too much at stake for me to back away now.
– ... It is not like me either to make promises I have no idea if I can keep.
– Don't feel obliged. Wishing me well will suffice, my friend.
– I'll keep you in my prayers, if that's all I can do.
Mu smiled and rushed to Kanon, as the rest of the spectators spread away
– Aldebaran – Shaka turned to his friend making jump out of his skin. – Did you knew it was Kanon?
– Huh?
– Ever since that lunch at Aioria's when he admitted… – Shaka got closer to the other man so only he and Aioria would hear him. – Did you already know that Kanon was the person Mu was in love with? – Aioria was shocked. Aldebaran just nodded. Shaka's eyes filled with tears he didn't dare shed – Since when… are they together?
– I wouldn't know…
Shaka just turned around and left without paying attention to anything else.
– Kanon! – Mu was beside him. The Gemini was holding his head in dizziness.
– Let's continue this some other time – Said Kanon to Camus and Milo as he stood up. Then he looked at them up and down - Mission half accomplished - He mumbled. Then he walked away followed by Mu. Camus and Milo exchanged looks.
– What happened to him? – Marin and the others were puzzled.
– Saga, are you alright? – If Shura hadn't hold Saga, he would have hit the ground hard
– I didn't meant that... – Said Saga so terribly dizzy
– What happened? – Asked Shion
– I projected him my memories of us training long ago. Kanon used to meet Camus and Milo in the afternoons, they all waited for me in the old ruins. I distracted him. If Milo and Camus' attack had connected, he…
– He is fine.
– Let's go back – Shion teleported them and Athena away
Kanon had barely stepped into the road back to the temples when some sort of vertigo struck him. Luckily enough, Mu was there, so he teleported them to Gemini temple.
– Why did you do that for? Mu... – Asked the Gemini as the Aries laid him down in his bed
But Mu didn't answer Kanon. So the Gemini stood up and made him turn around.
– What are you talking about? – The Lemurian refused to look at him in the eye
– Put yourself between Saga and me... If Shaka hadn't been there, it could have been fatal
– ... It could have been fatal to both of you if I hadn't interfered.
– What is it to you? You'd rid of us, of our fights and issues.
– What good can be gained from that? – Finally Mu looked up into Kanon's worried eyes
– Why are you doing this?
– I don't know. All I know is I can't stop. – Mu leaned against Kanon
– You should, before you end curled up on a corner of you room – Kanon hugged him
– I might get to curl up on a corner of my room at some point but there's people who won't let me end up there, just as I won't let you end up like this.
– I'm sorry... For letting you get involved. You don't have any need of such a mess.
– Get some rest, Kanon.
A few days afterwards, Camus, Shun and Hyoga were walking down the temples path towards the refuge. They had just met with Saga. They were supposed to check on some stuff there on Athena's request. But just as they were about to cross by Scorpio temple, they heard a great racket coming from the way of the private chambers.
– Milo isn't supposed to be here at this time... – Said Camus who sprang forward when a loud crash was heard. – Milo! Are you there? – He called without placing himself in front of the door
– Camus! – That was him, rather away from the door.
– What is all that noise? Are you okay?! – Camus tried to open the door but it was locked. Milo always locked it.
There was so much fuss approaching from the other side.
– It's got in here!
– What...? – Camus was about to knock down the door when it suddenly opened and something exchanged places with him trapping him inside.
– Get rid of it! But whatever you do, don't squash it! Just put it outside or something
– Milo, let me out! What is wrong with you?
Indeed Milo was shirtless outside keeping the door closed despite Camus hitting it hard from the other side.
– Get it out, and I'll let you out!
– Get out what!?
– Use your freaking brain!
– ... Milo – Now that was Camus getting hold of all the patience he was capable of. – Have you noticed you are not alone out there? I don't have time for this, let me out. IMMEDIATLY.
– If you leave that thing loose in my chambers I won't EVER go back in again. So you better get it out and then you can leave.
– I don't see anything! There's nothing here! What am I even looking for? You might have already killed it while doing this mess!
– I certainly not! No, I don't think so... No, I wouldn't kill it! Find it!
– It might have left already
– It didn't! I have been trying to drive it out all morning! Check by the shelves. That's where I last saw it when I threw you in there.
– Hey, what are you doing with my books?
– I was bored, don't lose the pages. FOCUS! I need to get going too! Alde is going to have my head ... And don't make any more mess!
– How can this get any messier...?
There was a long silence
– QUIT STARING AT IT! GET RID OF IT!
– I'm totally killing you for this, Milo... Are you serious?
– NOW!
– So THIS was Kanon illusion about?
– CAMUS
– Now I get why he bullies you. To be honest I don't think I would EVER let you hear the end of this.
– Kanon, you son of a... You will because you are such a good person that I'd hate to bash your thick skull to the wall!
– How am I supposed to grab it?
– WITH YOUR HANDS IF YOU DARE! There must be a box somewhere around the desk. Could you please hurry? I'm so late already!
– You locked the window!
– THE KEYS ARE IN THE DESK, FOR THE LOVE OF ATHENA!
There was some rustle. Then nothing.
– ARE YOU DONE YET?
– Yes, it's out...
But Hyoga had a very bad feeling about that tone of voice.
Milo sighted, but as soon as he let go of the door, Camus burst it open, grabbed him, and pulled him in.
– YOU HAVEN'T RID OF IT
– YOU GET RID OF IT YOURSELF!
– NO WAY I'M GONNA TOUCH IT! YOU DON'T KNOW WHERE IT'S BEEN!
– YOU CAN WASH YOUR HANDS LATER
Another ice wave.
– NO! RELEASE ME! DON'T COME ANY CLOSER. BACK OFF WITH THAT THING.
– QUIT BEING STUPID! HOW CAN YOU BE THIS FREAKED OUT BY A…
– IT'S KANON'S FAULT. HE SMUGGED ONE OF THOSE IN MY SHIRT WHEN WE WERE WAITING FOR SAGA. IT BIT ME! IT GOT ENTANGLED ON MY HAIR! AND I SQUASHED IT WHEN I TRIED TO GET IT OUT. IT WAS THE GROSSEST AND SADDEST THING EVER. NOW... NO, DONT!
– Hold it!
– NO, I'M GONNA SQUASH IT. YOU GRAB IT, GET IT OFF!
– DON'T SQUASH IT. THEY DON'T MAGICALLY GET SQUASHED. JUST HOLD IT AND DONT SQUASH IT!
– You are going to pay for this Camus. You and Kanon.
– You used to like them, you even had a whole bunch of those as pets stocked under your bed! How many where they? 6? With name and all! You dragged me all around the sanctuary several times looking for a moody one to name after Saga! You even made them race!
– And what do you think happened to them? I could not have them around anymore after squashing one! I still like them. Far away from me! They are real pretty. Squash one with your bare hand and let's see how real cute they are.
– Well, you better get acquainted because it is now yours!
– What? You can't leave it in here!
– I better find it fine and accommodated by the time I come back or I swear to you you'll regret it! – And with that Camus stepped out slamming the door shut. – I didn't had these kind of headaches in Siberia... – He mumbled rubbing his temples
– I'M GONNA CALL IT CAMUS! CAMUS MY PET!
– DON'T GET SURPRISED IF IT'S WHOLE FAMILY MOVES IN AFTERWARDS!
– YOU WON'T DARE!
– WATCH ME! AND CLEAN THAT UP!
– ALDEBARAN AND MU ARE WAITING!
– I'LL TELL THEM HOW MUCH FUN YOU ARE HAVING!
And as Camus stormed away, Hyoga and Shun followed him.
Once Equuleus Shoko was sure they were all out of the temple, the girl knocked the door.
– Scorpio Milo-sama, it's Shoko… - she said. She had been behind the others, but not following them.
– Hi, girl... Don't come in!
– I heard what just happened... Don't you need any help?
– No, wait! – She opened the door and to his surprise she was blindfold. She had been at the coliseum attending the yoga class to, so she was aware of Milo not wanting to disclose what his phobia was about.
– Are you still holding it?
– Yes.
– You talked about a box earlier. If you guide me to it I can bring it to you.
– Okay. Walk forward then.
The girl did not hesitate on entering the room
– Stop. Take two steps to the left – She did so. – Four steps forward and turn right – The girl followed the instructions and stopped. – There's some clothes inform of you. Take one large step forward then turn left and keep going... Stop, the desk is at your left, the box is right at your hand reach. There's two bottles close by.
Shoko found the box but made sure to find the bottles before moving anything. Then she grabbed it and made her way back, but backwards. So she made more or less the same movements in reverse and avoided all the unseen obstacles.
– So, how do I reach you? – She said when she finally got as close as Milo as her previous path allowed.
– There's nothing between us
So the girl relaxed and walked over to him and presented the box.
The box was sideways, so he grabbed it, opened it, put something inside and gave it back closed. The girl could only wonder what it was since the weigh in the box didn't changed much. She put it on the floor but when she stood up again, Milo took the blindfold off.
– Thanks
– No problem... Do you need help with that too? – Asked her about the ice trapping Milo from the waist down
– Don't worry about it. Go catch up with Camus before you get in trouble
– Oh, I wasn't going with him. I must go to the villages...