Kaiya’s POV
It was dark and cold but a comfort lingered, one that could only come from solitude, silence. Here I was alone, finding myself searching for someone that died inside myself long ago. Where had she gone? Vaguely my mind prodded a backwash memory. Now that I think about it, I think…I think she disappeared with my parent awhile back. They all abandoned me.
I felt myself exhale, there was a tiny ‘blub’ sound as the air freed itself from the imprisonment of my lungs. Slowly I opened my eyes, just enough to see the bubbles rise away from my face.
It was the same as last time. I am still suspended in and surrounded by water, water for miles around. Many different shades, dark and light blue near the surface, at least, I think that’s the surface. Light is streaming down from overhead. I want…I want to break that surface.
I tried to move my arms but found they were bound tight to my sides. They were still here I cursed mentally. Chains, of different glowing colors clutched to me. Green, orange, yellow all tried to shatter my feeble soul with their pressure. However, there were two special chains. The glowing neon pink hovered around my body slightly. It didn’t seem to have an interest to crush me but seemed more intent on watching. The other, I could feel my facial features twist in pain at the thought. The other, was a thin glowing aqua/gold was embedded through my heart. All of them had been here as long as I could remember…but wait…I searched through the surrounding oppressors to find one missing! Earlier before I departed on this journey there had been a red chain, but now it’s gone. Does that mean…
Trying with more force I struggled harder against the bindings. Get off of me I tried to scream but it was no use.
Responding to force the chains replied with force. Determined to keep their hold on me they tightened around my chest, forcing the air out of my lungs. I opened my mouth to cry out but only muffled sounds and air bubbles exited. I can’t breath! I shut my eyes tight together, tensing the rest of my body in a last attempt of defiance until I gave out. Why did it always happen like this? Why can’t I win? The aqua/gold chain started to burn.
Limply I received the pain. If I were crying at that moment I wouldn’t have noticed. A current seemed to be awakening once more in the area as I could feel my boy sway roughly inside the containment.
Swish.
Weakly I looked up towards the noise. It couldn’t be…A figure was making its way towards me, someone was swimming. The chain piercing my heart glowed bright aqua. This never happened before. My mind rushed through many possibilities only to come up with no logical explanation and so, I started to panic. One thing I did know, as I was, I’m helpless in this position and state.
The swimmer had passed the halfway distance and I could see him/her better. It appeared to be a girl, dressed in an odd aqua and white sailor outfit. Okay, so some freaky stranger dressed in battle attire definitely did NOT make me feel better. As she neared closer I felt myself struggle harder with renewed strength. I didn’t want this. Unknowingly to me the orange chain around my chest grew brighter as well. Let me go she’s getting closer! I tried to communicate to my binds. However they ignored my pleas and remained silent, watching the stranger with caution.
She would be here in a few minutes. I clenched my teeth, ready for a fight. There were more ways than one to lash out. The waters of the area steadily grew more turbulent and the light shades of blue had vanished. I glanced to the surface. There were quick flashes of light every so often, reminded me of a thunderstorm. My gaze had redirected back to the girl. Her face was like an open book I mused. Clearly she looked somewhat exhausted, she has guts, getting to me would be a battle with the weather as it is. But…those eyes. Where had I seen them? I pondered the thought, ignoring the fact she was yelling to me. Baka, you can’t talk underwater I silently scolded her.
In a sudden burst of speed she was in front of me, staring me down. It was then that I could make out her features clearly: aqua, shoulder length hair, aqua eyes…Momentarily I was stunned but it passed as quick as it came. She extended a hand towards me, intent on wrapping itself around my waist. Doesn’t she see the chains? You can’t get me out of here I tried to scream in frustration. With her other hand she shoved it over my hand and gave me a ‘don’t bother wasting your breath’ look. How ironic…
Feeling a need for action the chains tightened their grip around me once more. The pain was nearly unbearable. The aqua haired warrior backed off for a moment and gave me a concerned look, confusion apparent in her aqua orbs. Damn, she didn’t see them. When she moved closer once more I lashed out. If she saw I wasn’t worth it maybe she’d leave, there was no point in having her trapped here as well. My teeth found their way into her stretched hand. Some blood escaped the wound, I could taste the disgusting liquid on my lips and had almost gagged. One move was all it took. The girl recoiled back and countered. All I saw was a knee coming up to my face through a squinted eye and…
Thud.
Return to reality
My body felt warm…slowly I opened my eyes, one after another. No longer was I in the quiet void, but I was in someone’s living room. It appeared that someone had laid me down and wrapped in multiple blankets on their coach. There was one other, another black leather one that played twin to the comfortable one I sprawled on. Slowly I scanned the room in depth with my aqua eyes. A coffee table…I could reach out and touch it from here. Hard wood floor, a fireplace that was lit up and in the corner there was a grand piano…whoever it is, this person must be pretty rich. I was comfortable and to tell the truth I wasn’t in a big hurry to leave, at least until I met the owner of the place. I bet if anything it would have something to do with that girl earlier. Maybe whoever lives here could give me some information.
Once again I searched the environment to keep myself occupied. It was strange to be in such odd surroundings. Most of the objects that scattered the room mentioned were in my school books back at the palace. Looking back it really helped I finally understood.
“I guess Hotaru was right, those books really did come in handy.” I smiled weakly.
My movements shuffled under the blanket slightly. The clothing against my flesh felt fuzzy compared to my usual attire. It better not be ‘princess’ shit, wrinkling my face up at the thought. Finally I wriggled my right hand loose of the quilts and peered at the clothing with intensity. Bunnies…I felt myself sweat drop.
“Like the pajamas?” Came a velvet voice, she was laughing.
I did not jump or even feel startled, perhaps a bit humiliated. My eyes followed the voice until I peered into another set of eyes, almost as though I were looking into a mirror, I saw my own aqua eyes reflected back at me.
Michiru’s POV, what happened in her perspective
She sure was difficult to retrieve, fighting in the water like some possessed demon. For a moment I felt slightly guilty to knocking her out with a blow to the head but if I hadn’t she’d have drowned. Besides, she bit me! It really did hurt.
I felt myself sigh as I looked down to the girl that I held. She was shivering in my arms. The two of us were soaked and cold, just great. Hauling her up to my room proved to be a challenge itself, for a kid she seemed to be a bit taller than me, although, not as tall as Haruka I noted. And certainly not as heavy as Haruka I giggled. Haruka…I wonder if she’s all right now, if her mission went well.
Once upstairs I turned my attention to the stranger’s soaked body. Her muscles were slightly muscular I noted in interest, maybe she plays sports? Haruka would get along with her very well, they’d make great friends…no I’m not jealous!
It didn’t take long to for me to change the girl out of her sweater and shorts. The heavy clothing each dropped to the floor with a thud. I walked over to my dressed and picked out a kawaii pair of bunny pajamas, I’m sure she’ll love it, most kids her age usually do. She looks about fifteen if I had to guess. I’m almost embarrassed to admit that I wore such sleeping attire a few years ago myself. Feeling a slight blush creep across my features I shook my head in defiance. So what, I thought they were cute! I must be going crazy, living by myself this entire time must be the cause of me talking to myself like a schizophrenic.
Feeling defeated in thought, I managed to change my own clothes before taking the unconscious girl back downstairs to the living room. It was much more spacious there, easier to breathe and the fireplace provided the area with quick, comfortable heat. Conscious of playing hostess for my guest I wrapped her in a bundle of comfortable quilts, fluffy her pillow for maximum comfort. Kind of cute how she looked underneath all that, innocent looking. Even though she did bit me. I rubbed the bandaged wound sorely.
She seemed to be breathing rather heavily. I brushed my hand against the side of one of her flush cheeks. A fever…I frowned. In seconds I draped a damp, hand sized cotton cloth around her forehead. Who knows how long it will take till she gains consciousness, but I couldn’t leave until I had accessed the situation properly. Questions such as who was she and where did she come from were not only ideal and critical but necessary.
My weary body rested itself onto a small, black hair in the kitchen one room away, cautiously watching the small form. The chair creaked as my weight shifted uncomfortably across it. The girl did look young…it didn’t surprise me that she was taller than me, most people were. Wasn’t my fault that I was short…But her hair…it reminded me greatly of Haruka’s, the very same blond color. The only difference really was its length, the longer strands of the strange girl’s traveled shoulder length. My interest in this person increased with each thought.
An hour later and my eyes felt themselves slightly droop. I hadn’t slept at all despite the fact that all of the swimming through the battering current had worn me out greatly, almost forcing me beyond my limits.
“Yaaa…” There was a soft yawn.
She’s waking up! It was so exciting; I wonder how she’ll react. Pushing myself off my chair I moved to the side, behind the kitchen entrance. Can’t have her seeing me so soon right?
The girl’s movements were slow, opening one eye than the other in a meticulous manner. There was a cute look on her face when she peered at the room. I had to muffle my giggling more than once. She looked so confused I almost couldn’t stop myself.
My mind froze when she gave a weak smile; what amused her, did she see me? My fists on the wall pushed harder against the sturdy surface, holding my breath. No, it didn’t seem to be the latter to my relief. Almost immediately the girl shook her head, mumbling something I could not hear. What did she say? I wish I knew…Huh? Now she’s wriggling slightly, the blankets were shifting and, oh her arm. My eyes widened slightly, she managed to get it out, I’m impressed.
Myself, I expected her to pull the other free but the girl was staring at the bunny designs on the pajamas. Her disbelieving reaction was hilarious, I just had to ask.
“Like the pajamas?” I inquired, partially trying to stifle another one of my giggles but failed.
She did not look startled. Her eyes came up slowly and they finally met mine. There was a familiar shock that hit me, threatening to buckle my knees when I saw those eyes, the same aqua eyes from my visions, the eyes that were burnt into my memory. No one said anything as we held our gazes, neither willing to back down. The sound of a clock created the only noise between us.
Tick, tock, tick, tock.
“I…” She started, trying to find the right words she hoped to exchange. “I…er…”
“You were lucky.” I helped. “You almost drowned.”
“Drowned?” Her voice found itself but it was barely a whisper.
“Oh, but no worries right? I mean, anyone could drown in that stormy type of water, it was very strong today…”
The blond chose to stay quiet, I wonder what was causing her to lose herself in a stranger’s presence.
“I’m Kaioh Michiru.” I tried, hoping to catch her attention. It did.
“Ah…ano…”
“You do remember your name don’t you?” I teased. Her face broke out into a bright shade of red, certainly not from her previous ordeal I mused.
“K-Kaiya…”
“Kaiya san is it?”
She nodded her head. It didn’t look like she was willing to say more so I didn’t push it. There was always time later to gather the information, what was the point in rushing and scaring the kid off? Kaiya looked up again. Something caught my interest, she was hiding something, I wasn’t sure how I knew, but her eyes…with all of the emotions that swirled in a disorganized manner there was one that was excluded from the dance. My eyes trained on the spot, it was very deep as I could only barely trace it from the surface. She blinked and everything settled once more, creating an impenetrable cover. I tried to hide my disappointment.
“Arigato Kaioh san, for all your help. But I should be going now.”
“Matte. You’re still ill, should you not rest first?” I had tried to keep my voice calm and even, hoping to disguise the emergency of the situation.
She shook her head.
Kaiya’s POV
Michiru san seems like a nice person, but I can’t let my guard down for anyone. I know she wants me to stay…I do want to stay, the atmosphere is very amiable, however that could all change if I don’t keep moving. It’s getting worse, with every soul search I find it that much more difficult to escape back to reality. Besides, I have a mission, Hotaru is waiting for me back home!
“Gomen ne, Kaioh san…I’ll be all right, please do not worry about me.”
“Are you worried about your parents worrying about you? We could phone them a-“
Michiru san was watching me intently now. Should I tell her? Somehow, something told me lying wouldn’t cut it with this person.
“I live by myself.”
There was a concerned look on her face and it made me feel uneasy. Almost frowning even in deep thought.
“A young girl shouldn’t wander around at night alone…” She tried to reason.
“I’m seventeen.”
“Sev-“
She looked shocked, most people are I suppose. People like them often judge a person’s age by their face…although I must admit… it always amuses me seeing their surprised expressions. I could make a game of it if I ever get bored. I chuckled slightly at my sense of humor. Hotaru would slap me for playing with people’s minds though, she said it was…that person’s specialty.
“I’ll repay you someday, hopefully we’ll see each other again.” I offered. Already I was out of the pile of blankets, looking for my clothing. “Erm…would you mind telling me where my clothes are please?” Asking sheepishly. My eyes shot open all of the sudden, Hotaru’s gift! Michiru san seemed to notice my panic and sighed. She made her way out of the room and came back with her arms full of my now dry clothes.
“Ah! Domo arigato.” I repeated but with relief. There was Hotaru’s pouch, clinging to my shorts still. I held down the urge to snatch my clothes from the smaller teenager in front of me. When she finally handed it over to me everything inside raced with joy. At least I had one thing that was familiar to me still. Thank Kami. My heart was threatening to beat through my chest.
“You can change in that room over there.” Michiru san kindly replied.
She pointed to a small room down the hall.
“Arigato!” Boy, did I sound like a broken track record.
Not wanting to waste more of our time I raced off.
Michiru’s POV
I can’t believe she’s seventeen! Was that a surprise…I shook my head. It’s not safe to let the target walk out of here into the open but what was I supposed to do? I was torn between keeping her safe and a possible friendship. Haruka would yell at me now if she were here…the world, finding the talisman’s were most important, aren’t they Ruka? Ruka and I lived alone and both of us were seventeen. Who was I to criticize another for the same actions I’ve taken? It would make me a hypocrite! So much to think about, I didn’t want to do it now…
“See you later Michiru san!”
I spun on the spot just in time to see Kaiya waving goodbye and dashing out the front door before I could react.
“Kaiya!” I called, but she was gone.
Kaiya’s POV
I had been running for awhile, it didn’t appear that Michiru san was following me to my relief. It had to be done; I couldn’t allow myself to become attached to people here. As soon as my task is over I’m going back to the future. My fists clenched tightly and my strides grew longer. The cold air felt good against my flushed face, I liked the wind against my hair. My shadow jumped the street lamps overhead, if I had stopped to look I would have noticed the stars in the dark sky had come out.
Some time later I had made my way into the city. It didn’t matter where I rested for now, a park would be the best… it would be similar to the artificial forest back at the palace. Reluctantly I smiled. This feeling of nostalgia was not like me at all, but there was something about this place in time…that seemed to bring it all back. Perhaps it was because they were somewhere in this city, my parents.
Unconsciously I kicked a crumpled can on the sidewalk. It rolled and clinked noisily and came to a stop before I kicked it again. For awhile I tread forward, lost in my own memory. There was no one around snap me out of my spaced out trance, the streets were empty, nothing but the stars and the head lights overhead watched over me. The occasional car would speed by and disappear without a trace. The feeling was mutual; both of us ignored the other’s presence.
I wondered, was Hotaru watching me now? Impulsively my hand came up and slapped myself on the right cheek, hard. This was stupid! I’m not a child anymore I told myself. Get a grip, it was my idea to come here and I’ll do this alone.
Somehow I managed to stumble into a large park. Still grumbling to myself, I made my way up a few steps and scanned my surroundings. Almost immediately a small continuous creaking noise caught my attention. I looked across the park to see a small figure on the swing set. It was a girl and she didn’t look very old…If she hadn’t been swinging lightly I couldn’t have known she was there. Everything about her camouflaged her in the dark night. Short, dark hair and her outfit was composed of completely black clothing. It reminded me of someone…I closed the distance between us by half before to my horror, my foot snapped a twig. The girl looked up surprised and I froze.
“H-Hotaru chan?” I whispered.
Violet eyes stared into my aqua ones. But…was it really Hotaru chan? I felt so confused; the girl looked like her but seemed…younger somehow. The past… my jaw dropped, I was in the past! I cursed myself for my brain’s slow processing speed, what was it, one times ten to the negative five kilobytes per second!
It could very well be my sister but I’m seeing her as her younger self, I had finally calmed down.
“What…did you say?”
It was too late to take back what I said. Now I could only wait for the girl’s screams of panic…but they never came…
Hotaru’s POV
“What…did you say?”
The stranger stood opposite to me, with a surprised look on her face. How curious, ironic even that someone I’ve never met would know who I was. Most people wished that they never knew my existence. A sad feeling sweep throughout my weary body. My hands gripped the chains of the swing tightly, the stranger was the exact opposite of myself; blond hair, aqua eyes, tall…it left me feeling envious. I could never see myself wearing shorts or a bright blue sweater for the life of me either.
By the silence it didn’t look like she was going to answer my question… disappointing because I really wanted to know. Maybe I should go home now…The school bullies gave up chasing me a few hours earlier but it felt so nice to sit down while I caught my breath. So I stayed here, swinging quietly to myself. People could always be so cruel to others who were different…no one cared about my feelings, calling me a monster. Maybe they were the monsters! Did they ever stop to think about that? I was shaking now, biting my bottom lip to keep the tears from coming. Perhaps the other girl noticed because she somehow made her way over and stood in front of me.
“Daijobu des ka?”
I shuddered to feel her hand on my shoulder, gestures of kindness were foreign actions to me, no one but my father really cared if I was all right or not. Before I could respond a rage of coughing fits hit me.
“Hey!”
There was panic in the older girl’s voice, why didn’t she just mind her own business?
“It’ll…pass…” I managed to respond within fits.
The worst of the attack hit me now. My muscles recoiled from the spasms with pain. It faltered and came back stronger with each attack wave. Too much… to keep balance. Falling forward I expected to hit the concrete but met a surprise when soft arms cradled me.
“This doesn’t look good…” She muttered. “The hospital…damn I don’t know where it is! Do you?”
It was no use, I couldn’t respond back now. My weakened body could barely keep myself conscious let along stand or talk. A soft sound caught my attention. Staring at the ground I found the tears were coming now, they still came despite my promise not to cry anymore. I hated myself, what’s the point of existing like this? At times I knew I wasn’t myself. It wasn’t just me in this body…
I felt the blond lift me with strong arms, holding me close.
“Maybe we should try to find a place…” She contemplated.
Realization had sunk in, I didn’t know this person! Instantly I tried to wriggle out of her grasp but she tightened her grip.
“You are in NO condition get out of here by yourself.” She scolded lightly, teasing almost. A small grin lit her face. It was amazing that I could see it in the dark.
I shot a glare at her, even if I was wrong I still didn’t like that idea. It seemed like there was no use arguing with this stubborn person!
In moments we left the park, walking in a general direction. There was silence for a good part of the walk. I guess she must’ve been exhausted if she kept that mouth of hers shut for so long.
“I’m Kaiya.”
Okay, scratch that.
“Tomoe, Hotaru. But I guess you already knew that.”
“Hahaha…”
Why was she laughing, was I really that amusing? I could feel my cheeks burn up, if I had the strength I’d slap this girl and knock some sense into her.
“Well…yes and no, Hotaru chan.”
“Ano…why do you keep calling me Hotaru chan? I don’t really know you.” It wasn’t that I minded really, just odd.
Her eyes lit up.
“That can be fixed ne?” She frowned in mock thinking. “What’s your favorite color?”
What a question! Any idiot would be able to tell f at first glance. I gaped at her. Are blonds really this dumb?
The girl laughed again, apparently amused by the shocked expression on my face.
“Black right?”
Tentatively I nodded my head. We passed a city clock. I couldn’t believe how late it was! However my attention was diverted once more when I noticed Kaiya’s shorter breath intake. It never occurred to me that she could be getting tired carrying me, she appeared so strong…until now that is.
“Kaiya san, you need to stop.” I told her, finding my voice. Her face was flush. I was no doctor but it didn’t look very good.
“I’m fine.” My hand tightened its grip around a loose part of her sweater. “Really.” She laughed. How can she be so stubborn?
“You don’t even know where we’re going Kaiya san.”
“You can just call me Kaiya.”
“Kaiya…at least stop for a bit so we can get our bearings. I know you’re lost.”
The blond seemed to agree; obviously the logic hit home. In minutes we settled down on a pair of steps, there were many trees all around us. It seemed to do her good, watching her more cautiously her breathing finally slowed and she relaxed.
“So, know where we are yet?” She turned to face me.
“Well…I’d say we’re in front of the Hikawa shrine.”
My companion raised an eyebrow sarcastically.
“And you deduced this…?”
“There’s a sign.” Pointing a finger to a small sign beside the blond.
“Oh…” For once she was at a loss for words, I smiled. “Well… do you think it’s worth asking if they’d let us stay for the night? It’s really late and I don’t know if you would want to phone your parents this late in the night…” Looking back at the clock down the street. “Er…morning.” She corrected herself, scratching her head.
Papa wouldn’t be able to come get me, thinking bitterly. He’s always so busy with his work these days…It would probably be for the best if I stayed and then call him in the morning and have that woman pick me up. There was a spark of hatred threatening to swallow me up. It almost did but a reassuring hand on my shoulder brought me back. Kaiya had a concerned look on her face, the same one earlier in the park. It boggled my mind, to help a strange, ill girl for no reason. I really…hope she doesn’t find out about my powers…then maybe…
“Come on.” There was that smile on her face again as she extended her hand, offering to help me up.
I stared for a moment and finally decided to take it.
“A-arigato Kaiya.” The words came stumbling out.
“Ah, no problem Hotaru chan! What are friends for right?”
Something inside lit the darkness of my heart. She wanted to be friends, she said we were friends! It wasn’t till that moment that I realized how much I missed having someone there for me…
We walked up the steps hesitantly. It was dark…a wrong step could make us fall quite a ways. Kaiya insisted to walk behind me, she said if I fell she’d be there to catch me. It was reassuring…
At the top of the steps we paused. The place looked so mysterious at night, the way the tree would flutter their leaves slightly and the wind howled softly. The moon was being partially covered by the clouds, similar to being in a horror movie. Kaiya took the first to step forward towards the entrance.
Knock, knock.
We waited.
Kaiya’s POV
I really felt sick, whoever lives here, I hope they come soon. The whole adventure didn’t go down well with my stomach. My ears pricked up when I heard footsteps. Someone was coming out with a lantern.
“What do you want in this time of-“
An short, old man had started to yell but stopped short after the light hit Hotaru and myself. That look in his eye…
“Oh ho ho! What’s a couple of pretty dames like you doing here?” His attitude sure changed fast. “Are you lost?” He elbowed Hotaru.
“Ah, something like that.” I felt my hand pull Hotaru away from the perverted geezer. “We were wondering, would it be all right to stay for the night until we-“
“Of course!”
I didn’t get to finish my sentence and he had already agreed. This could be a good or bad thing. My mind pondered the idea for a moment, maybe this wasn’t such a great idea…but seeing Hotaru shiver I couldn’t take back my request.
“Do you mind sharing a room with my granddaughter Rei? Oh! Don’t worry, she doesn’t bite or anything like that, she just feels a bit ill…Yuuchiro is out of town and to tell the truth I can’t watch her…”
I was getting what he was trying to say. If we watched over Rei, we could stay the night.
“All right.”
He blinked.
“Ya mean it?” He seemed to be the most serious he’d been since the start of the conversation.
“Hai.” I repeated in annoyance. Some of it was from impatience, feeling ill yourself could do that to you.
“GREAT!” Kami, praise be to fast reflexes, I had barely shifted to the side and missed his flying hug.
“Come on Hotaru…” I muttered, taking her hand as we walked towards the shrine, her eyes watched the old geezer sprawled on the floor still while we walked away, wondering what to do. She followed me of course.
“Wait, I have to show you where to go!” He finally recovered, jumping up and sprinted towards us.
This…was going to be a long night I sighed.
Inside the shrine
The three of us walked a few steps to a small sliding door. When the old man opened it a feeling of nervousness hit me. There was a small body to the corner of the room, wrapped in a futon. The blanket on the girl’s chest moved up and down in a steady rhythm I noted. She seemed to be sleeping peacefully.
“There’s an extra futon in the closet to your right.” The old man informed me.
“Oh, arigato…” I sent him a questioning look.
“Just call my grandpa!” He smiled.
It seemed to be genuine, his smile. I was surprised at first at how he was willing to let us take care of his granddaughter…Not like I was going to do anything bad to her but we were still strangers. My thoughts were interrupted when Hotaru pulled gently on my sweater, she was practically leaning against me for support now, rubbing her sleepy eyes.
“Your sister?” Inquired the man thoughtfully.
“Something…like that…‘grandpa’.” I added.
His face seemed to soften from its usual tense perverted gaze. He seemed to leave it at that and nodded his head.
When he finally left I let Hotaru sit on the floor still barely conscious. Tip toeing I crept over to the closet and found the extra futon. There was only one…Guess I’m sleeping on the floor. It would probably be best to lie it beside that Rei person, that way I’d be able to watch them both without much trouble.
In minutes the futon was laid out and I tucked Hotaru into the sheets. She looks really relaxed when she sleeps. Her older self was always so tense and…well acted like she had a stick up her ass. Somehow I surpressed a snort.
The room was fairly empty, except for the small table and drawer. Soon I was propped up against the drawer, still observing the two sleeping forms. It didn’t bother me that I was tired, I just felt I needed to be wary. The place was still strange to me. Unfortunately my body didn’t agree…
Rei’s POV, dreaming
“Let me go!” Rei demanded.
The monster had her pinned to a wall while the rest of her friends watched on helpless.
“Rei!” They cried out to their friend.
There was a black stream of light that hit the miko in the chest.
“AHHHHH!” She screamed.
End of dream
My body shot up into a sitting position only to crash my head against something hard.
“Oww!” Someone moaned.
I froze, there was someone in…my…room! A dark figure grappled their head with their hands, obviously still feeling the blow from our heads colliding. Rage replaced my fear, who the hell did they think they were?
“What the hel-“
But my cry was muffled when a hand covered my mouth.
“Mmf.” I tried to continue angrily. All I had was words; my body was too weak from the attack earlier to fight back. So I settled for second best, using my long nails I scratched the intruder’s arms under their sweater, hoping they’d release me. For a moment they didn’t move. Didn’t they care? Finally after a moment they leaned in and whispered,
“Please try not to be so loud…you’ll wake her up.” They shushed me, taking their hand back.
Her? Okay, now I was confused, who was…
“Ah-“
Two arms wrapped around me, tightly, squeezing the air out of my lungs and holding their hands around my mouth once more. My eyes darted back to the sleeping form beside my futon. A short, raven-haired girl was sleeping peacefully, only emitting soft sleeping sounds from her tiny form.
“Shhh!” There was a pleading tone to the voice. “Please Rei…”
“How did you…?” My voice whispered warily.
The stranger pointed towards the door and stood to go outside. I guess they wanted to take this outside, well fine then! It’s not like I’m afraid of one person; I am the senshi of fire after all.
Pushing back the sliding door I saw the figure sitting on the desk with her feet propped over the side. She was leaning back on her arms, bathing in the moonlight. Beautiful was the first thought that came to my mind…
“You can sit down if you want.” She motioned, patting a place beside her.
Still cautious I hesitantly sat down. I could feel her eyes watching me, studying me even. I wonder what she was thinking…
“Gomen nasai for earlier Rei san.”
I looked up to meet a pair of aqua eyes. They…looked so lonely. A weak smile played across her face.
“Well, you see…”
It only took her ten minutes to sum up her situation.
“So Hotaru…?”
“Is the one sleeping inside, hai.”
“And my grandpa…?”
“Asked us to watch you for a place to the stay the night in trade.”
I couldn’t believe my grandpa was being so reckless! Leaving me in the hands of a bunch of strangers I huffed. He’s so going to get it tomorrow.
“He’s an odd fellow.” The blond seemed to read my thoughts. Isn’t that supposed to be my specialty? No, wait…I’m supposed to sense things. My eyes rolled at the thought. Well, there wasn’t anything dark and evil from Kaiya…but the other girl…Redirecting my gaze at the blond I studied her carefully. There was a strange air to her… it didn’t seem to be quite right…
“How do you feel Rei san?”
I blinked. The pain and weariness all came rushing back to me. My hands instantly came up to hold my throbbing head. Another hand pulled my head onto something soft. A light blush settled across my face when I realized Kaiya offered her shoulder as a headrest. Normally I would’ve pulled back but I was too tired, pride could only do so much…
“It’s alright…” Kaiya muttered softly.
It was comforting, almost like having an older sister. My mom died when I was young and my dad doesn’t give a damn. Grandpa is nice but…no girl should trust him. I chuckled softly, thinking of the kind, old man.
“Feeling better, Rei san?”
“Call me Rei.” I mumbled. “And yes, I do feel better, arigato Kaiya san.”
“Call me Kaiya.” The other girl replied, mimicking my voice in a teasing way.
There was warmth in her voice, warmth from her shoulder.
“Why haven’t I seen you around before?” Feeling the words coming out.
“Well…” She hesitated. “It is a big city.”
I frowned, was she playing around with me? My question was answered with a quiet chuckle.
“Actually, the truth is…” Kaiya gathered her breath. “I’m not...from around here.”
“Oh.” Oh, was that the best response I could give? “So where do you come from?”
“Somewhere far away…” There was a distant look in her eyes. Unconsciously I snuggled closer to the girl.
“Was it just recently? I mean, you did say you were lost and all.”
“You could say that.” She shrugged with her opposite shoulder. “I’m here looking for someone.”
“Someone…special to you?” I don’t know why I asked or why I suddenly felt disappointed.
“My parents…” Came the soft reply.
The feeling felt familiar to me, the sadness she gave off started to seep to my core. Then…was she…?
“They disappeared when I was little…”
“S-so, how do you know they’re alive?”
Kaiya’s eyes steeled.
“I know, believe m e.”
I did believe her. There was something confident about her attitude, the certainty was awe-inspiring. My eyes widened at another possibility.
“But where are you staying then? I mean you aren’t exactly…” I had wanted to say grown up but I felt myself clamp shut.
“Oh, nowhere at the moment.” She laughed, the air tension broke and the air relaxed again.
“But you can’t just go wandering around!”
“So what do you suggest?”
I bit my bottom lip. There was one idea that I had…
“Why not stay here?”
“Here?”
“Yeah, grandpa probably won’t mind.” He can’t say ‘no’ to pretty girls. “You’ll just have to help out around here with the chores…”
Kaiya seemed to contemplate the situation carefully.
“Why not?” She smiled. “I’d be honored Rei.”
“You’ll also have to deal with Yuuchiro when he gets back too.” I quickly warned her.
She gave me a quizzical look.
“He’s another guy around here, helps out, trains…but he’s really useless.” I sighed.
Kaiya’s smiled grew brooder.
“Sounds like fun.”
She actually agreed! I felt so happy that I almost fell asleep right there. I was slightly aware of Kaiya picking me up and tucking back into my futon beside Hotaru. It was a surprise to me that the girl could sleep through all the previous racket of my panic.
“Kaiya…” Hotaru whispered.
Wearily I glanced back up towards the blond. She didn’t seem to hear the smaller girl and was sleeping against the desk with her arms crossed. Sleep claimed me as well.
Morning…
As expected Kaiya and I went to meet grandpa in the morning before Hotaru awoke. He seemed to accept Kaiya immediately without any problem at all. I wonder how Yuuchiro will react when he gets back? I can’t wait to see the look on his face when I tell him he was ‘replaced’, maybe he’ll start to actually help out around here.
It was a funny sight to see…when Kaiya and I walked back to my room Hotaru whirled around the corner and knocked the blond over. She wasn’t crying but you could tell she was upset in her own little way. For awhile there, Kaiya repeatedly patted the smaller girl on the back, repeatedly saying ‘It’s all right Hotaru chan…’.
After the little incident we called Hotaru’s father and he immediately came, Hotaru talked to him for awhile before they pulled up shortly…must’ve been through his cell phone. I wonder what they talked about for so long?
Kaiya’s POV
A small, black car pulled up down by the shrine steps. When the door opened a tall man with whitish hair stepped out, an oblique monocle covered one of the man’s eyes. Was there something wrong with his eye?
While I stood there wondering Hotaru ran past me and jumped into his arms, she was smiling and looked happy. It was her father but not mine. I had overhead the maid staff longer ago talking about Hotaru being adopted…I didn’t care, she was still my sister to me…it was before that incident happened. An image of blood splattered across my eyes.
“Daddy, this is Kaiya.”
“Ah, Hotaru has said a lot about you.” He extended his hand as I took it in a handshake. He seemed to be nice enough. When I glanced to Hotaru her eyes averted my gaze. Cute.
“It’s nice to meet you…”
“Tomoe.”
“Tomoe san.”
“I can’t thank you enough for helping my daughter Kaiya san, she’s always had a weak body…I hope it wasn’t too much trouble for you.” Hotaru was still looking down, did she think she was a burden?
“It was no trouble at all!” I exclaimed. With one of my free hands I meshed Hotaru’s hair gently, leaving some ends poking up at odd angles. Only a squeal of surprise was emitted from the younger girl. Mr. Tomoe smiled, seeming to make up his mind about something.
“Kaiya san, will you do me the honor of accompanying Hotaru and myself for a ride? There’s something I would like you to see.”
I glanced at Rei who didn’t seem to mind at all.
“It’s all right. I have school. I’ll catch you later afterwards.” Then she was off.
Then I looked to Hotaru, Kami there was a pleading look in those violet orbs, how can I say ‘no’ to them?
“I suppose…” Came my nonchalant reply. Really I was dying to find out.
The trip seemed to be quiet for the most part, even Hotaru seemed to be back to her quiet, shy self.
“So I hear you just moved here, is that right?” Mr. Tomoe asked.
“Hai, that’s right…but how did you?”
I caught the exchange of glances between the father and daughter. It clicked, Hotaru must’ve overheard me talking to Rei last night. I wasn’t angry or anything, amused actually at the younger girl’s reaction right now, her hands wouldn’t stop fumbling together on her lap.
“I don’t suppose you ever heard of Mugen Gakuen?” The man continued.
“Well…ile, I’m afraid I haven’t.” I reluctantly replied. I hated to sound so ignorant.
The man only chuckled slightly and Hotaru…well she seemed somewhat shocked at my response. This time it was me who was twirling my thumbs.
“Why…do you ask Tomoe san?”
“Because we’re here.”
I couldn’t help but stare at the tall building and there were so many students…
“Come on, I’ll show you around.”
Mr. Tomoe lead me through the hallways, being sure to point out all the facilities the school had to offer. It was really different from the palace, so many kids about my age.
“Our school has the best to offer, always trying to best to accommodate the student’s needs.”
More than once I felt myself unable to resist the urge of staring into the classrooms from the outside windows.
“Sugoi…”
A teacher in every room, many pupils interacting with each other. They all seemed friendly to each other, made me jealous how much fun they were having. As a child I was always alone…these people probably abuse their luck.
The tour finally ended with us walking into a large office.
“Welcome back Tomoe san.” The secretary briskly replied upon seeing Tomoe san.
Hotaru’s father smiled and waved before ushering us to follow him into a back office.
It was a big room, a white marble floor, a large desk by the back wall…there were various paintings hanging from the walls and a few pieces of extra but less important furniture such as leather coaches lay throughout various places of the great space. Light streamed into the room through back windows in the office.
Tomoe san waved Hotaru and myself towards two small chairs in front of the large desk. We were all seated comfortable somewhat, actually I was nervous about what was going to happen next. Why did I get a full tour of this place?
“You seem to be a person who would like to get to the point of things…” Tomoe san observed. My muscles all went rigid inside. “So I won’t beat around the bush. How would you like to enroll into this school?”
Major brain freeze. But it must cost a lot of money to go here and I didn’t bring a lot with me…
“I…well…” Feeling myself frown at he complication.
“If it’s money you’re worried about, don’t worry, I’ll pay for your tuition.”
My jaw dropped.
“N-nani?” I asked weakly.
Tomoe san chuckled, at least someone found this amusing.
“Kaiya san, if you haven’t noticed I own this school. It’s no problem at all.”
“B-but I thought you said only the elite of the elite and the really talented and whatever study here…” The man doesn’t know me well enough to access any of my abilities.
“Special people…” He mused. “My daughter’s friend…I count that as being special enough.”
Out of the corner of my eye I saw Hotaru blush.
“Unless you have other plans…” He continued on, concern in his voice.
“Well…no I don’t.”
“Great, then it’s all set.”
There was a note of finality in his voice, so I said nothing more. It was true that I didn’t have anything else to do or go really…and I suppose this would make a great disguise, so why not?
Tomoe san reached over and contacted his secretary through a call system.
“Would you please send Kaolinite down please? I have someone that I would like her to escort.”
In moments a woman in long red hair lead me out of the office.
“I’ll talk to you later Kaiya.” Hotaru said, waving me off.
“All right.” I nodded.
Roughly I was showed my locker and given my school supplies. My dislike for the woman was already apparent to me; everything about her rubbed me the wrong way.
“This is your schedule and here is your school uniform.” She indicated by shoving a day planner into my arms and pointed to a pile of clothes. “Change quickly, faster you’re done the faster I can show you to your first class.” She continued curtly.
Isn’t she a peach? Bleh. Why do I get the feeling she wants to get rid of me? Deliberately I changed into the blouse and skirt slowly. I didn’t like skirts but this was going to be an exception. It wasn’t until she threatened to come change my clothes for me that I hurried out.
“Here’s your first class Kaiya san.” We stopped in front of a steel door. “The teacher will introduce you and you’ll find your way from there.” She knocked on the door.
When the teacher came to the door the woman whispered something quick into the man’s ear before speeding away.
“So you’re a new student then?” The man asked, peering at me curiously. Was there something on my face or something? There was something about that grin…
“Hai.”
Nothing much to say about him, black slacks, black suit…must be a dress code for teachers too, many others wore the similar outfits in the other classes in the tour.
“Well then, come on in and introduce yourself. Don’t be shy.” He turned from class entrance and walked to the center of the room. “Students, we have a new student, please make her feel welcome.”
I could hear the loud whispers and mumbles from inside. Suddenly I was aware of the situation, the sweat inside my closed fists, how my arms were stiff by my side, the rigid muscles in my back…and my breathing was too fast. Taking a deep breath I took the first step and walked into the bright classroom, Kami there were so many people. Talk about a cultural shock.
As I walked I kept my eyes straight ahead till I reached the teacher. The whispers buzzed around the room, greater than before. Spinning on the spot I brought my steeled eyes up to peer at the surroundings. The students were lined up in rows, slowly increasing in height from the bottom up. It was when something caught my eye, no, someone. A certain aqua haired teenager that I met earlier just poked her blond companion in the ribs. So she went here, just great.
“Konnichiwa...” The room fell silent. “Watashi wa Tenou Kaiya. Nice to meet you.”
A silence rang in the air. I held my breath… did I say something wrong?
The silence was soon pierced by the shouts of approving students and I let out my held breath with a ‘whew’. Guess they were in shock too, can’t imagine anyone having a slower processing speed than me but I guess I was wrong. Now…that was one problem out of the way…My eyes wandered back to aqua eyes and blondie. Our eyes locked. Now for problem two…
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