A special spasm of thought

This particular post will be in response to my lab assignment that I have for school.

As it pertains to the concept of blogging, I thought, "why create another blog that I will forget about...when I can just plug and update my current one?"

After all, it's simple to access, I have long been acquainted with it already and I will likely get a few more viewers on here than I've ever had prior to this happening!

So with that being said...

Welcome, ladies and gentlemen, to my blog! I hope your stay here is pleasant and enjoyable.

This writing blog contains my thoughts and comments on concepts or various ideas in today's media (in particular, what's the haps in the TV and the Movies) that struck me so much that I had to blog about it. (I could tweet but I never feel like that's enough for me. It limits me to a measly 140 characters.)

Like, for example, I've previously reviewed the aftermath of the Lip Service TV series following the death of the protagonists involved in the series' main Love Triangle. (As seen here)

Another post that might be of interest features my original crossover idea between the American Nickleodeon cartoon "Legend of Korra" and the Japanese anime series "Mobile Suit Gundam". And yes, i'm sure that a unique and oddly mashed-up idea.

However.

Trust me when I say that IT LOOKS AND SOUNDS AWESOME

Prior to writing prose though, I have also an earlier section where I post my poetry of days past. I'm no longer a frequent poet, but everytime I do feel inspire to write in rhymes, I don't hesitate to post it. If you'd like to read any of it, you can do so by clicking here, here or here.

Well, I think i've said enough for now. If you've read this far, then you must be pretty interested in what I have to say.

...Or you're the supervisor reading it for marks.

Which is totally fine too.

Regardless however...

I do thank you all for visiting!



Suzanne Helen James.


Ps: If you have any questions or comments, the options for leaving them will be at the end of this post below.

LIP SERVICE COMMENTARY (reposted from last April)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IhZPX_3GcdQ

LIP SERVICE COMMENTARY (dated from April 2012)

So I just listened to this wonderful piece of music and at the same time I’m just finding out about what happened to Cat in Lip Service (RIP)

…And well, truth be told, the two are perfectly synonymous with Sam’s role in the great Love Triangle of the series. I realize that FraCat fans are all up in arms and gushing about the coupling and how they’re meant to be but then you guys have to realize something here.

Cat’s actions in refusing to choose between Frankie and Sam was something she actively wanted to exercise because the thrill of an affair excited her and because she didn’t want to choose. That’s right, I said didn’t.

I watched the whole first series and that shall forever be my favorite series and the reason for that is because of Cat’s initial characterization and her strong resistance towards Frankie. The reason why Frankie’s presence still lingers is because they have a strong emotional history and a strong love and bond yes, but Frankie ruined her chances repeatedly. Cat’s refusal to Frankie’s advances and her strength to resist going back to her was what had initially appealed to her persona at first. (Along with her face and her adorable awkwardness and neuroticism)

Then when SamCat happened, I squealed. Not just because of the loveliness of Heather Peace and her hotness, but because of Sam’s appeal and her hotness. Her straightforwardness, her patience, her “good girl” appeal was what gravitated her towards Cat. Among other things. Their relationship was mutually beneficial, they complimented each other and Sam was the first girl that Cat had brought along to meet her parents. While at the dinner Sam was observant and appealed to the Mackenzie matriarch with finesse and calm and made both her mom and her girlfriend pleased. Sam is literally “The perfect girl you’d love to bring home to your parents.” And that’s what she did ;)

But unfortunately, despite all the love, positivity, passion and honesty that she beamed, Sam wasn’t enough to match Frankie. Frankie is an attractive, dangerously unpredictable soul. Frankie has charisma but also a sadness and a harsh background that’s made her complex and that’s what makes her attractive to Cat, among other things.

I had Tumblurked and found many truths to each of the shippers’ arguments; The history and the undeniable consistent gravitation of FraCat and the raw, budding and reliable alternative that was SamCat.

But in the end, what everyone forgets is that in the middle of this is what I personally believe to be a selfish, excited but conflicted and undecisive Cat. Cat, who’s well-aware of Frankie’s unpredictable and painful and manic behaviour and gets drawn into it…to sooth her own needs. Frankie goes along with it because she gets what she wants, but apparently by episode 2, our blonde badass wants her and her alone. She doesn’t want to share Cat anymore with Sam, she wants her best friend back, she wants her muse back, but she’s so into being with Cat that she forgets that what Cat is doing is actually hurting her as well. And probably as the series goes on, she will be forced to move on from Cat and stop making excuses for her actions. There will be a time when she will have to grow up and be a girlfriend who’s actually trusting and worth of your attention, who’s heart you’ll cherish…

Like Sam. Who’s gone through her own struggles (remember the monologue) and came into her own person and lives her life in the open. When everything will unravel, Cat’s betrayal will rip our poor hot cop to pieces. But as Heather Peace says in her B video of awesome…

“I will find someone better than you.”

((This was written about 5 months ago, back in April. But I think it's very much relevant to the show and if you find yourself reading this and see yourself in Cat's shoes or Sam's shoes or Frankie's shoes, then you do what's best for you. This piece is my response to what each character's situation and what happened. If my words resonate a cord, good.))

Scout vs. Wylde: A comparison of two smashing bardettes by Suzanne Helen James

"Ashley Wylde's Canadian cousin"
 

It’s the best way to describe her, honestly.

Scout, also known as Anthea Ballam, is the reigning Canadian Youth Slam poet champion of 2012. She’s been in the Slam poetry circuit since 2011 and has been recently been traveling all over Canada performing in competitions. I met her while in College last term and through her was introduced into the slam poetry world.

When I looked up at Ashley’s Tumblr, she reminded me so much of her…

It must be the swag. Or the adorkable. I don’t know.

Then, as an experiment, I decided to listen to their poetry side by side. Now honestly, Scout’s poetry log isn’t quite as extensive as Ashley’s as she hasn’t been filmed often, but she has her share of strong, dark poetry that I’ve heard her perform personally.

Now, I’ve listened to “Oh, I’m sorry” (by Ashley) and “I’m sorry” (by Scout) and both are unique mirrors of social justice told from two different points of view. Listen to Ashley’s first and Scout’s afterwards.

While Ashley’s piece was stronger in terms of subject matter and was delivered with an unapologetic ironic punch, Scout’s specialty is her mischievous and sarcastic delivery. I see it as a perfect response and counterpart to the former post.

Then I listened to another set of similar opposites; Wylde’s “The perfect amount of insane” and Scout’s “Sometimes.” (featured as the link of the video).

The first video is beautiful, slow, heartbreaking, straightforward and quotable as hell. Its gripping, powerful and the poem finds strength in trying to find mutuality within the addressee and the speaker who’re opening themselves.

In contrast, the latter’s poetry is brash, fast, jumbled and it makes you feel trapped and bombarded. Scout’s unpredictable pace alters between fast and slow stanzas as the speaker makes us see things from the inside out and how their own thoughts are the only thing that can’t betray them, that wouldn’t leave. By the time the poem ends, you’re left breathless but feeling a little better because you’re finally able to peek out and see what’s outside, just like the speaker.

Both poems share the same theme of openness and gripping onto that one person who will stand by you through anything you or the world will deal with. They’re two sides of the same coin.

But even with all of these similarities, a few more things have to be considered.

One: I have a personal bias to favor Scout because I’ve seen her live and her online repertoire isn’t as complete as it should be. My opinion isn’t the definitive one on her and while I’m sure there will be zealous fangirls, let’s be respectful of each poet and appreciate them, not belittle them.

Two: I’ve just discovered Ashley and I’m sure as I’ll get to know that side of her, I’ll get to appreciate her even further (though to be honest, she’s cute and adorable and just utterly well-built and well-rounded and cute and adorable and mildly reminds me of Brooke Brodack and she should flex and be more shirtless often)

And three, their styles are completely different, at least from what I’ve seen and that often determines their performances. (I will also admit that I had a brief but containable crush on Scout, so while my judgement towards her is unaffected by that, that doesn’t mean I won’t fangirl every now and then though she’ll never know this)

But all technicalities and form aside, I say go check them both out, especially Scout because she needs more love and Ashley could get to know her extended family.

And hey, you never know. Wouldn’t it be awesome if they performed together? (Also, I see them as a good brotp. Imagine the poetry they’d write together and the adorable times they’d spend together…)

Unfortunately though, Scout doesn’t have a Tumblr, no matter how much I kept pestering her about it, so the best way is to see her few videos on Youtube under the Scout Vancouver poetry slam tag. (Also, she plays original music, which you can look about here, here and here too. These are oldies though, and she’s yet to actively update her stuff in the last while, I think these are good starting pieces no. And her facebook is really private, so no, I won’t be giving those away.)

And even though you can find our beloved Ashley’s Tumblr and Youtube if you look at her track tag, I’ll give it here anyway.

Oh yes.

One more thing.

Did I mention these two were born ten days apart?

Scout’s birthday is on April 11th and Ashley’s on the 22nd.

A mild fun tidbit I wanted to share.

Thanks for reading and spread the love!

 ((This is dated by a few months earlier this year, so by the time I had written this, I believe she was already touring the country. She's back now and if you're ever in the Vancouver area, come see what other poets of her caliber can do on Monday nights at Cafe Deux Soleils, on 2550 Commercial Drive.))

"What a beautiful beast!" A review of the "Beauty and the Beast" pilot by Suzanne Helen James

Summary: A modern-day retelling of the 80s cult hit (and NOT the Disney movie), Beauty and the Beast stars Smallville's Kristen Kreuk and Terra Nova's Jay Ryan as two star-crossed lovers who are bound together on a murder case. When Detective Chandler's recent investigation leads her to the deceased doctor Vincent Keller, she's drawn into a deeper conflict that not only involves him, but also goes back to her own mother's murder.

It may sound like it has an interesting plot, but when I'm done breaking it through the good, bad and ugly side of it, it won't look so fun.

And I'll be glad to put emphasis on the latter two.

The good: I can't find it. As in, I can't find the good in this show that's not something to nitpick. I didn't get grabbed or have insight into what the characters are thinking. I didn't feel anything. I was told who they were and had a great load of exposition, but frankly...well, I thought it was a bit done. To be honest, the only reason I'm still watching is because I'm hoping it'll get funnier or it might improve as the time goes by. So it has me on their DVR list for many more episodes to come. And I'm thinking that's a GOOD thing.

The bad: Where do I begin? Here's the list of major notables:

 1) The late night bar with the funny name ("Salty dawg"..really? There's just something sleazy about that name for some reason. It makes me uncomfortable)

2) KKreuk's childish pigtails, along with the boss lady's conversation ("I'll hand it -the restaurant- to you when I get arrested...or divorced")

3) The mother's rescue (to be honest, I would've thought about calling a cab and leaving the car there overnight...and then calling my mom. But this isn't MY story, so...)

4) The douchebag one-scene love interest (whose 5-second appearance is solely for the ironic purpose of making the tough-girl damsel KKreuk look good, but actually makes her look bad because he's used as a tool of what kind of man you would avoid if you weren't a tough-hearted, no-nonsense girl looking for love in all the wrong places.)

5) The convenient inclusion of the new potential love interest (that's not the Beast) who's the "Handsome and BRITISH coroner with a lack of attachment but who'll be willing to change that for the protagonist because he'll grow feelings for her" (seriously, if you missed their interactions and missed the foreshadowing then my goodness, you weren't paying attention.)

6) And the general feeling that you have a show that's trying too hard to pander to its ridiculously obvious skewed young adult/teenage demographic while utterly failing to bring a cohesive background to the Beast's storyline that's not already done. To break it down in layman's terms: Butt-kicking Tough cookie but-still-a-damsel-in-distress plus Edward Cullen the brooding were-hulk with the in the Big Apple equals this show.

But I'm not even sure that it's the baddest or ugliest thing about this show because...

The Ugly comes in form of the "Beast" himself to whom I've given many nicknames already. And just to remind you, there isn't a beast in question. Well, not in the traditional sense. The creature in question is super fast, with golden eyes, super strength and an uncontrollable urge to smash things and people in the name of love. Or his forgotten humanity.

Yes. It's the Hulk.

But it's not the Hulk.

This beast was created as a result of the super soldier program "Operation Muirfield", where the army gave steroids that made the users go ballistic when in battle. Naturally, this has them becoming a liability and therefore they have to get eliminated...except for our beloved "Beast", which gets to survive thanks to "luck".

Personally, I think it would've been cooler if he was a zombie.

Also, while on the topic of ugly, the fight scene in the subway made me grimace a little. I mean, don't get me wrong on the fight scene on the train platform; KKreuk's fighting was well-done (she's proficient in martial arts and if you watch Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li, I'm sure she'll show off even more), but the way it was brought up was awkward as hell and too darned predictable.

It gets worse when her legitimate fighting skills are dampened to enable the Beast to save her... and we get a free puppet show as the camera refuses to show us how the assailants are killed. Beauty then decides to follow him down the train tracks...even though there was still an operating train not that long ago.

Then that scene when she just screams in agony and anger and "GWAH GWAG GAGHHH!!! I'm ANGRY AND I'MMA FIND YOUR ASS IF YOU DON'T COME OUT!!!"

But the Beast doesn't hear her.

The train does her instead.

Cue the last-minute save...

And he wins her heart! The Beast wins the Beauty`s heart with a save and a touchdownnn!!

(Insert gif here)

But to be honest...

All of this drama could've been avoided if Cat would've had a sassy gay friend.

But she doesn't.

Then again, if she had been given common sense as opposed to 'feelings', there'd be no plot, no show, and no chance for chemistry with the handsome monster.

And worst of all, I'd have nothing to talk about.

So in the end, I`m gonna watch it. You know, for the camp? And the mystery and that whole hullabaloo.

.
AND NOW, SOME EXTRA FACTS! (of various relevance)

. The series is shot in Toronto, Ontario (Oh hey, Canadiana!)

. This series was based on the 80s tv show of the same name, with Linda Hamilton (yes, that one) and Ron Pearlman in the main roles. It lasted for 3 seasons, with the 3rd season having Hamilton leaving due to being pregnant for a certain someone's baby. (That certain someone shares his name with the current PM of England, but they're not related.)

. The husband of the victim of the week was plated by Yannick Bisson, who's best known for playing Victorian Detective William Murdoch in the Canadian show "Murdoch Mysteries".

. The first season is set for 13 episodes. Let's hope it manages to go further!

A prompt I had a while back

 Gundam 0113: A shattered paradise

A Legend of Korra crossover with the Mobile Suit Gundam series

An original prompt by Suzanne Helen James

“War may be a faraway, distant and fantastical thing to many, but there are always those who wait in the midst, gathering their forces for another chance to incite unrest and take power.
In the years following the last great war of UC 0093, the United Space Colonies Alliance was created by a representative of each Side as a peaceful alternative to the years of the war-mongering Zeon movement. However, there were spacenoid USCA members who harbored resentment towards the Earthnoids for refusing to leave what they saw as a desolate, useless and dead planet where humans could no longer evolve. Revering the myth of the ultimate human, the newtype, they were eager to make it known that Earth was nothing more than a decaying natural resource and a reminder of years of unfinished business.

Those who were part of the Earth Federation were also wary of the motives of their spacenoid counterparts. Most of Earth’s civilians were unaware of the struggles faced by their government, being free to come and go between Earth and the colonies as they please; they didn’t know of the compromises that the government had to do to keep the general population`s peace of mind. In the years following the war, the physical consequences could still be felt on much of Earth’s surface, and many places were dangerous and toxic to inhabit.  In an effort to foster forgiveness and healing, the USCA and the Earth Federation initiated a joint restoration movement; the spacenoids would help rebuild livable cities with their technology and in exchange, they were able to partake a share of Earth’s natural resources to continue development in space. Despite the disagreements that would often arise between the settlers and the original inhabitants, they would be resolved by the USCA’s founding members and war veterans Aang, Zuko, Sokka and Toph.

Aang and Zuko had once been enemies, but through the end of the conflict had in fact joined forces to help end the Neo Zeon war, with Aang having discovered his latent abilities as a newtype in the fight. Though Aang had been used as an example by radical supporters of full space immigration, the peacemaker opted instead to be a positive image for all members of the Earth sphere, ignoring their status as spacenoid or Earthian. He emphasized this by his loving marriage to Earth-born Katara, and together they often travelled the Earth Sphere to oversee the efforts of their peaceful unity…

Yet there were those who could never fully trust the fragile alliance between the two parties and they were willing to break it to expose their true colors, since there will always be uprisings and the need for dissension and strife.

The truce would be shattered when a dissident named Yakone attacked a colony through use of arms and mobile suits, the latter which had been expressly forbidden to operate by both sides as part of the peace treaty. However, Captain Toph Bei Fong, creator of the USCA military police force, had created a secret mobile suit task force in order to retaliate against Yakone’s forces. Though the man was defeated and arrested, Toph had her task force dismantle the MS, as she promised Aang that it would the only time that this rule of the peace treaty would be breached. However, she kept the blueprints in a locked safe and kept in hidden in case another insurrection might arise. Though the skirmish had ended without much casualty, it certainly made the hidden tension between the two factions simmer to the surface.

Soon after the incident, a space colonization campaign was spearheaded by the up and coming Councilman Tarrlok. When the initial campaigns didn’t work, he and fellow council members secretly conspired to to send manufactured mobile suits to Earth and force the colonization. However, his methods were revealed by councilman Tenzin and Government Officer Lin Bei Fong, both of whom were children of Aang and Toph, respectively. When the military plans were revealed, the council not only agreed with Tarrlok`s plans, but repealed Tenzin’s vote along with Lin`s.

The result of this public declaration of war incited the public rise of the Equalists, an Earth organization dedicated to retaliating against Tarrlok`s aggressive campaigns. They were lead by Amon, a masked figure whose suffering under Spacenoid torture made him wear a mask. The equalists were comprised of former Earth federation military leaders and radicals who wanted to suspend the full spacenoid campaign and bring the vengeance of the Earth forces by attacking the colonies as they had done with Earth.

Tarrlok accepted Amon`s challenge and encouraged it. The Equalists` first attack was launched in a side 3 space colony, where there were many civilian casualties. This emboldened Tarlokk and Amon and installed fear in both sides.

How far would the equalists go to prove their independence towards the spacenoids?

In return, how far would Tarrlok go to fight back against the Equalists?

This greatly disturbed Tenzin and Lin, who’ve been trying to continue their joint legacy of upholding peace in the Earth Sphere. Feeling he had failed his father, Tenzin resigned from the USCA and retreated from the Earth sphere, bringing his family to a distant colony his father had created. Lin followed suit, feeling the need to protect her former councilmate and his family, leaving the charge to her second in command, Saikhon. Tenzin and Lin settled on the colony, declaring it a war-free haven for all, regardless of where they were from, Earthian or Spacenoid…

However, Tarrlok kept his eye on Tenzin’s secret colony and made sure to remind him that his strategical help was always welcome to aid the brewing war effort; he also knew that Lin had taken her mother’s blueprints and revived her mobile suit defense force to keep the small colony safe from outside forces. However, both of them stood firm in their neutrality and rejected Tarrlok’s offers. Despite this, the scheming USCA chairman never looked away from the Paradise colony and was in fact, planning to bring the war to them and force them into the conflict against Amon, whether they wanted it or not.

Amon, meanwhile, continued his attack in space and spread his cause, reclaiming the homes and resources of the colonials should be equalized, as they needed to see what life was like for those living on Earth as a result of spacenoid invasion and forced colonization. He had grown so popular on Earth that he joined forces with the Earth Federation and convinced them to re-arm themselves.

As for Tenzin himself, his neutral position was not only a political memento of what his father left him, but it was especially to protect them all living on the colony from being exploited for bloodshed, war and violence. As Aang’s newtype powers were brought out through war, he wanted to avoid the same things to happen, especially if it involved the use of forced tactics; to this end, he held onto his belief in absolute neutrality and giving solace to all those in need to escape war, giving only weaponry to those who will protect the civilian populace. This mindset of concentrating peace and harmony away from warfare and hardships would better reveal newtypes than force them out, as Aang had been forced to do.

Tenzin knew that his father’s wishes for peace truly meant to include the peace over all of the Earth sphere, not only for his own colony. He hadn’t left because he wouldn’t fight in the war; he was actually preparing himself for the conflict to come to him. As a newtype, Tenzin’s spatial awareness had developed in a time of peace and he had been able to sense others like him, though they were few and far. He kept these discoveries a secret and recorded them in private files, having Lin develop special mobile suits to the enhance the newtype’s abilities.

One of his potential discoveries literally came out running of the docking ship. She was brown-skinned, with brown-haired pigtails and a pair of jean overalls. This bright, boisterous and excitable young arrival was known as Korra; she was the daughter of Tonraq and Senna, two Spacenoids protestants who evaded Tarrlok’s war and brought all of those they could protect. Intrigued by the unique and spontaneous young girl, Tenzin had his civilian agents look out for Korra as she grew up, supervising her every move and noting her growth in smarts and heightened awareness.

Lin in contrast, was wary of this new wave of colonists. She knew of Tenzin’s ability and while she trusted her old friend, she wasn’t sure of the intentions of many of these newcomers. One could never know who could be a spy in the wings of Amon or Tarrlok. As for the newtype theory, this made Lin worry even more, for it made the threat of war even more tangible and real; not to mention, how could one be truly sure that the newtypes could be reliable and trained after so much time in a peaceful environment, as per Aang’s theory?

Universal Century 113.

Korra is now a 17-year old Paradise colony citizen going to high school. She’s skilled in basketball, swimming and against her better judgements, fighting. Unbeknowst to her, her growing newtype ability helps her bond with her childhood pet, Naga, which is a space-born crossbreed between the extinct polar bear and a dog. Korra spends her time between her schooltime and extra-curriculars to sneak off to watch the exploits of the street fighting brothers Mako and Bolin. Sometimes, she even helps out in their matches and often wins for them.

Korra’s biggest dream though, is to explore the world outside the cylinder walls of Paradise. She’s had dreams of space and seeing the galaxy, and always hearing a voice calling out to her, calling her to what she thinks could be her destiny…
But some nights, Korra also has other dreams. Nightmares of voices, screaming out for help, visions of giant mechas flying and blasting through the atmosphere and reaching the surface. The mechas’ guns blaze through the ground and destroys the block before exploding and leaving a hole that unleashes a gust of wind to breakthrough the fallen colony…
These dreams Korra’s not sure what to do about. These visions scare and intimidate her. They feel so real, so close. Could the same visions of space and the galaxy be intimately connected to these same dark dreams of death and destruction?

On one of the nights when the bad dreams invade her, the young woman decides to go see Tenzin. She’s grown up with the former councilman and his mother, Katara, and somehow has come to rely them often for this kind of oddbeat advice, something that her parents encourage as well, for reasons she’s never really asked for. Climbing her bedroom window carefully as not to wake Naga, Korra leaves her premises and hopping over a few more fences and restricted spaces (much to her glee) she arrives at Tenzin’s base…

When she sees a light coming down from the sky. The small dot comes closer and is revealed to be…

A 20-foot green mecha landing down on the ground. To her astonishment and awe, Korra hides behind a nearby wall and watches as the robot lands. The brunette crouches and gets closer to the site, trying to be as stealthy and quiet as she can be. As she looks left and right for any intruders, Korra enters the hangar in front of her and gasps as she looks at the large sheet covering the concealed mecha..

Until she feels something poking her backside and stunning her. Grimacing as she’s pained, Korra looks behind her as she’s confronted with the sight of a masked figure with small goggles and an pulsing electric glove on their right hand. As the glove crackles with faint electricity, Korra’s collapses on the ground and utters faintly for Tenzin, leaving the masked intruder to escape."

Will Korra be alright?

Who is the masked intruder?

And is Korra a newtype?

Gaia guardians Christmas chapter (current published chapter)

Gaia guardians

Rating: T (slight language, violence and slight innuendo in later chapters)
Genre: Action/Adventure, romance, drama (in later chapters)

Gaiden special chapter 0.1- When the snow fell on us...
/It was then/that our bonds/were tied between/[you] and [I]

In the small town of Hanamomi, 10 years ago

She watched from the large window panel of the cafe shop as the snow continued to fall down in small, miniscule clusters, one after the other. Smiling at the small, beautiful spectacle, the young woman smiled again and then returned her warm gaze on her equally warm mug of hot chocolate she held so tightly between her hands. Looking intently at her faint reflection in the dark brown pools, she took a nearby spoon and immediately started turning it, the ripples of her reflection soon dissipating and becoming blurry to her eyes. Narrowing her pine green eyes gleefully as she did this, the woman closed her eyes and then raising the hot liquid-filled mug to her lips, blew small puffs of air as she attempted to cool down the boiling drink. As she was going to take a trial sip though, the young woman gasped and hissed at the pain when she felt her burning tongue twitch; it seemed as if it wasn’t ready to be drunk yet. Sighing at her failed drinking attempt, she reluctantly set her hot mug down on the table, her hands however never leaving its surface. Shrugging at her momentary defeat, the braided female then took to looking outside again, to where a hustle and bustle of people had been long crowding the streets. Bright lights and decorations were also seen across different stores across from where the woman was sitting. It was a perfect time for festive cheer, and the retail stores and other consummations stores were probably going to have their most profitable time of the year. The hazel-haired woman smiled and giggled again at the thought of her neighbour, Ms. Hibiya, and her wild rants about how people were getting too perky or too greedy during this specific time of the year. “Heh Heh Heh,” the woman chuckled to herself gleefully as she recalled their last encounter. Then again, sometimes she would agree and sympathize with the older woman.

After all, it was the holidays. And as such, people often tend to get a bit worked up into what they’re going to buy for the loved ones; and for the young children, their poor parents were responsible for keeping up with the charade that there was indeed such a thing as Santa Claus, and had to feed their mouths with the thoughts that they had to sleep well tonight or else Santa would’ve come creeping into their chimney on Christmas Eve.

“Ohhh...t-there you are, Sakibara-Oujo-sama!” then said a voice from the outside, startling the hazel-haired woman out of her thoughts as her gaze turned upwards. She was then met with the panting figure of a young, short blue-haired man with slipping spectacles falling down his nose; which he quickly adjusted after taking notice of it. Judging by the looks of him, it had seemed like he had ran quite a long distance for him to reach her like this! Or then again was he simply in a hurry to arrive and the large strain and lack of free movement in the hustle and bustle of the crowds exhausted him? Either way, the man looked very tired, and the young woman decided to ease his pains by offering him a seat, to which the stuffy male gladly accepted, though in an abrupt manner. Apparently he was rushed by something as he was sitting halfway on his seat, one leg sticking out towards the floor outside their table. Noticing his error and wide lack of politeness, the young man gasped and quickly adjusted his mistake, settling both legs under their table.

“Please accept this one’s dearest apologies again, Sakibara Oujo-sama. Forgive this fool for his rudeness and his grave tardiness. The reports had came in late and I felt I couldn’t arrive here without you having this information, so-” The boy then stuttered all at once as he proceeded to rise from his seat and then give a quick bow to her once before slamming himself down on his seat once more. The stunned young woman, in response, smiled sheepishly and easily gave him the required apology through just a wave of her hand. “Oh hoh, Komagata-san!” she said back, smiling as if nothing was, “You mustn’t worry about your being late! I was watching the people go by while I waited for you; it was quite fun and very entertaining really. But...Thank you nonetheless for the kind apology!! Really!” Watching as she continued to laugh in such a carefree manner, the still-nervous boy in question swallowed again and nodded for the third time, while also taking that apology as a positive reply. Once again readjusting his glasses back onto his nose, the blue-haired youth then took to introducing himself as he took out an envelope from his large navy parka. Watching intently as she opened the thin packet and skimmed through the folders that were inside, the man swallowed nervously. Hesitantly raising a hand to loosen his tie, he swallowed again and cleared his throat to address the concentrated woman once more. “S-Sakibara Oujo-sama,” he started, unable to keep he lump in his throat, “I’m feeling a bit hot in here. Is it alright if I may take off my tie a little bit?” Chuckling again at the man’s flustered behaviour, the light blonde nodded and returned to examining her papers, leaving Komagata-san to loosen up his tie a little bit. A small, awaiting silence then settled between them as the boy attentively watched the woman in front of him, yet also taking the time to study her as well. He had wanted to see if the rumours were circulating about Oujo-sama were true; Because, unbeknownst to her, he had based her appearance solely on those rumours, and had been hopelessly infatuated with her ever since.

My goodness...It truly is as they had described her...Truly indeed! Beautiful, radiant locks of honeyed-coloured hair...they say it was always wrapped up in a braid on one side...it seems it is!! And her eyes...what deep shades of green! One who would feel as if they would be staring directly into the eyes of a luscious, endless forest of Pine trees...I would see why anyone could fall in love with her...such warmth, such depth...such simple radiance emanating from this woman...Ohhh...Sakibara Oujo-sama...If you could only be mine!!!

“...Komagata-san?” then came the light voice creeping into his ears again, “Komagata-san?” she repeated as the boy in question found himself staring face to face into familiar pair of deep green eyes. “GYAAAHHH!!” He yelled in surprise as he jolted wildly from his seat and was now up and atom on his seat, with hands in front of him. Blinking as she chose to ignore the boy’s odd bits of behaviour, Sakibara Oujo-sama smiled and waved hello. “Um, Komagata-san,” she then said calmly, ignoring the watching crowd around them,”...would you please take a deep breath and accompany me towards our designated ride? After all if we remember well, that is the only reason that you had come to meet me in the first place, yes?” the still flustered boy in question nodded and taking a deep breath as instructed, then slunk down in his seat. The two then rose up from their seats, and it was then that Komagata gasped and couldn’t help himself as he then pointed down at Sakibara Oujo-sama. She, still smiling as nothing was, nodded and then turned him around and walked him forward towards the entrance of the cafe, meanwhile still not taking notice of the gawking passerby of earlier.

After all, it wasn’t every day you would see such constant erratic behaviour in their town. And was the young boy pointing at exactly when he was looking at the other woman? They couldn’t see what he had seen either.

When the duo were finally outside, the woman in question then smiled broadly and raised her arms in the air, enjoying herself in the continuous sight of the snowflakes falling above her. “Ahhh...look at it, Komagata-san. Look at the small specks of the falling snowflakes. Is it not beautiful to marvel at? They look like little falling stars from our feeble point of view. You know, some countries don’t even have the luxury of celebrating winter with the snow like we can. But they still do take it in themselves to celebrate the coming holidays in their own special way...isn’t.” Looking at the still-gaping boy, Sakibara Oujo-sama still smiled and patted his shoulder lightly. Meanwhile, Komagata-san had still not taken the recent surprise he found himself staring at. Luckily, by the time the shocked boy was about to stutter anything else from his mouth, a car had come by and had stopped right in front of the awaiting passerby. Once again giving light pushes towards her attendant, Sakibara Oujo-sama stepped in slowly inside the vehicle, following her shocked younger friend. When they were finally in the vehicle, Komagata-san finally strode his eyes away from the hazel-eyed woman’s unusually large belly and finally stared at the face of the expectant in question.

Another soft chuckle passed through her lips as she had temporarily received the boy’s full attention. Then again she was getting used to the constant gawks and stares she was receiving every now and then. But she had to say that it was very funny when she saw the reaction on their faces; men were certainly more expressive then women when it came to this department. As for Komagata-san himself, he hadn’t gotten over the fact that he was staring at the face of his “beloved”. He couldn’t really get over the fact that her pregnancy had been so quickly, so fast...!! “S-S-S-Sakibara....Oujo...”the blue-haired boy again stuttered, readjusting his slipping glasses unto his face. He again swallowed the huge lump in his throat and took a huge huff of breath. “Aye, Aye...E-excuse me!” he managed again as he turned around to contemplate in his little corner, leaving the giggling Sakibara Oujo-sama to stare at his back. Taking another look at her future daughter, the woman patted her large belly and chuckled.

“...I know, I know. You must be thinking: “Sakibara Oujo-sama has been taken!” And the truth is, yes she has, Komagata-san...yes, she has. So my dearest apologies if you now find yourself heartbroken, like all the others. Sakibara Obaa-chan didn’t really didn’t want this to be known, only by a few private members of the council. Thus, to normal people, they wouldn’t my gradual change in appearance over the last nine months. But, of course, with those who are supernaturally inclined...they would’ve spotted the changes immediately; within even the first weeks for those who were very skilled in detecting such things.” Meanwhile, the youth in question, who was now fidgeting over what to do now, had finally come to a decision. Turning around to meet the still smiling face of his “formerly beloved”, Komagata-san sighed and took a deep breath. After all, it was only a fluttering crush he had, and with time, he would soon find another to call his “beloved”. After all, there could’ve been many reasons why it probably would’ve never worked between them; with one of the biggest reasons being that she was his superior and that despite her age, she was in her mid-twenties while he was still in his late teens.

It probably would’ve never really worked, anyway.

After all, the most important reason before all was that this would be the woman who would be giving birth to the world’s salvation, would she not? So of course all her attention, all her patience and virtue was needed to go through her future experiences with the coming child. He would probably only be in the way in the end game. “I...I...I understand, Sakibara Oujo-sama. I had just overreacted, and I thank you for seeing through this one’s faults.” He finally said, now returning to planting both feet on the ground of the vehicle. Clearing his throat to release any more of the tension he might’ve caused between them during their entire meeting from the cafe to the car, Komagata clasped his hands together and awaited an answer to his unasked question. Seeing his renewed serious expression, Sakibara Oujo-sama returned her own eyes towards the front and placed her own hands on her stomach as well.

“Well, your report was quite detailed, Komagata-san. Your sector has done tremendous work on finding out details about the work of this Arcadia Corporation. Sakibara Oujo-sama was very pleased. It helps us know exactly what are their motives for the future and what it might have to do with my...my...future...daughter...”Stopping in her speech to look down at the unborn child stirring inside her belly, Sakibara Oujo-sama frowned and narrowed her eyes. Komagata-san, in an act of worry and lingering hope, placed a comfortable arm on her shoulder. In her slight distraction, Sakibara Oujo-sama leaned in towards the nearby shoulder and closed her eyes, her face twisted in expressed anguish. She was trying to suppress the tears from streaming down her face. Taking the strong initiative, Komagata-san pulled the adult woman closer to him and held her at a considerable length from him. Enough to hunch close to her, but not too much that it would seem like he was trying to get perhaps too intimate with her. For him, having Oujo-sama this close to him would’ve been enough. He would time to get over her later; but right now, she needed comforting, and as a love struck man, that was what Komagata was of duty to give her that! “K-Komagata-kun...”she muttered under sniffles and sniffs as the hot tears streamed from her face. Gulping as he felt her relax under release herself under him, the shaking boy just swallowed and nodded, decided to keep his gaze to the window, watching as the limousine drove over the bridge that would cross towards the city of Tokyo, where Sakibara Obaa-chan and the council would be waiting.

***

Tsusushi temple, Tokyo

“Midori! Midori Sakibara!” The young man yelled towards the young girl perched up on the Sakura cherry blossom tree. The girl in question blinked and slightly took her eyes off the chicks on her fingers to look down at the angry priest who addressed her. The said man was actually her very irritated tutor. You see, Midori was supposed to be training for her future role as the heiress of the Sakibara family spiritual powers and thus gaining ascension to the protection of the shrine; but sometimes she had a habit of sneaking off when not needed. Most of the time, the poor teachers would mostly find her here, sitting in one of the high branches of the Sakura tree preceding the main houses themselves, and she was often playing with the birds who had nestled there. Other times, she would simply be not inside the perimeters of the shrine itself, but instead she would out into the big city of Tokyo itself, “to make up for lost time” she once claimed when she was asked why she would be often taking her little brother Shouta with her on her rare trips to the outside metropolis. It was indeed a hassle to try and discipline the young adoptee of Lady Kimiko Sakibara; but in the end, she did have at least one main quality; when push came to shove, she would do what was required of her.

However, that would take much more effort to get her to actually get to the “push and shove” part.

“HAHHH!!! You....You...youuuuu!!!” yelled the exasperated man once more as he pointed towards the gawking girl, blinking back at him as if nothing was. “Midori Sakibara-sama! Are you even listening to meee??? Get down here right this instant!” Returning her attention to the chirping yellow chicks hopping and resting on her fingers, Midori smiled and with her other hand, slowly stroked their gentle little foreheads.

“Right this minute, young lady! Tis not time to be fooling around!!!” Came the loud voice speaking to her ignorant hearing again.”Do you want me to attack those birds? That tree? You? Allrighty then...”he finally said snickering and slamming his fists together,” Let’s see what you’re really made of...”

As for Midori herself, she still seemed oblivious to what exactly was happening, instead turning all her attention on the chicks before her. What a bunch of cute little animals. Birds. Or should I say chicks. They hadn’t much to do for the moment. Unlike me, she grumbled though, as she was once more jolted out of her thoughts when she sensed the incoming force of an attack. Glancing below again, Midori quickly leaped away from the tree just as the sutra had struck the branch she was sitting on. Landing on her two feet, the braided brunette frowned and held onto the little birds nestled in her chest. “Oi, Sensei! How can you do that?” she exploded back, growling. She knew she was slacking off, but having the little ones involved in this too? Outrageous! Fine! The Honorary Priestess in-training concluded, flexing her free hand into a fist, which quickly crackled into a ball of energy, if it’s a fight he wants, than a fight he’ll get! Not losing any more time before her sensei could prepare for another attack. “Aha!” then came the triumphant reply, “You’ve finally decided to shape up, eh? Well, let us see if- GYAAHAHAH!!”By the time the sensei had gone even though mid-speech, Midori had long been prepared; her two forefingers in the air, she mutely chanted the required words and minutes later fired a bolt of lightning. Launching it towards her intended target, the long-range attack struck the stunned teacher straight to the chest, which then sent him flying all the way out towards the staircase where two visitors were currently climbing in order to reach the top.

“Oh No...” Komagata-kun muttered as he then looked to the puzzled Sakibara Oujo-sama who was looking back at him.”D-didn’t you hear that?”He asked nervously, chuckling as he looked up towards the last few stairs. “Hmmm? Yes, I heard a scream, but I had no idea that it was coming from-“ “Duck!” the blue-haired boy suddenly ordered as the two did so, avoiding the body of the yelling that flew above them, then tumbling and groaning to his doom. Wincing at what he had just witnessed, Komagata-kun sighed and shook his head. “Well, there she goes again. And with that, another teacher too.” The hazel-haired woman still lodged between his shoulder and arm looked over her shoulder and frowned. “Oh dear...Should we check on him? Is he going to be alright?” She asked, unaware of what exactly had happened to the man to have sent him flying like that. “Well...” was the clearly hesitant reply as Komagata-kun looked upwards in a thoughtful manner,” ...Let’s just say that Midori-sama is...very difficult to work with at times...actually, scratch that; many times, Oujo-sama.” He had paused for a great deal of minutes before having said the last two words. After all, he wasn’t exactly a good source of reconnaissance despite being on the team; he was just tasked with summarizing them into long essays and charts. Otherwise the poor boy fed himself on others’ rumours. “Oh really?” came the curious reply,” Is this Midori going to be the next in line for the succession of the family robes?” Komagata-kun nodded again reluctantly. That, he knew wasn’t just from rudimentary gossip; the facts were solely set on her. “...She seems...interesting! Like she could pull her own weight only she’s asked to...or to put it simply a really fun and interesting person!” Again bursting into a fit of giggles, Sakibara Oujo-sama smiled and went into thought, leaving poor Komagata-kun to wonder whom exactly he was crushing on. After all, Oujo-sama was much too sophisticated and much too dignified to want anything to do with the likes of that mean-spirited, haughty, and slacker of an Honorary Priestess! Frowning and twitching at the thought invaded him, Komagata-kun harrumphed and decided to trudge on forward while pulling Oujo-sama with him, swiftly bringing the woman out of her frivolous thoughts. Marching through the last bits of snow-covered steps, the duo (Komagata-kun in particular) groaned huge sighs of relief as they reached the summit. The said latter, by then, had fallen on his knees and was literally bowing up and down, giving countless kisses to the snow-filled ground and thanking the gods of the sky to have finished his misery. Judging by the way he was fervently praying, snivelling in tears and constantly bowing, it seemed like Komagata-kun would be absorbed in this little ritual for the next little while.

Meaning...I can go find Midori-sama!!! Ooohhh...what fun I expect in this little hunt!!! Taking this opportunity to try and find the probably “infamous” girl, Sakibara Oujo-sama clapped her hands excitedly and literally taking one leap at a time, hopped with one foot in front after the other; smiling and always looking behind her as she watched her tracks in the snow. She continued to act and walk in this manner until she ended up face to face with the Cherry blossom tree where Midori had been previously perched on. Now she found the girl in question sitting down right in front of her, at the base of said cherry blossom tree. Groaning a bit as she stabilized her aura inside her belly to equalize her child’s overbearing chi within her body, Sakibara Oujo-sama suddenly stumbled forward until she turned and with a flop of her butt, ended up sitting on the white and pink concrete next to the indifferent priestess.

“So...you must be... the renowned Midori-Ore-sama?” she asked, having added playful emphasis on the girl’s given title. Oujo-sama was still smiling nonchalantly as she looked at her. Midori looked up from the snuggling birds lodged up in her kimono hem towards a pair of warm green eyes. Minutes later, unable to bear the simple, deep stare Sakibara Oujo-sama was giving her, quickly scoffed and looked away. Softening her gaze even more, Sakibara Oujo-sama smiled even broader and then looked to the gray sky above them, heightened by the incoming snowflakes that had started falling once again. “You know...snowflakes are beautiful, aren’t they, Midori-Ore-sama? Each of them diminutive in size, but very large in beauty and grace. Can you see from here how each of them, even in their small stature, how each of them dances in the sky? How they brighten up the greyed skies we see before us? All the while approaching us for a perfectly white Christmas...won’t it be perfect for such an occasion?” She then asked, smiling as her gaze returned upwards towards the sky, leaving Midori to raise a brow at the other woman’s current line of thought. Then without notice, the woman’s gaze then caught Midori’s eyes again by surprise as the two then looked at each other; then, pointing a forefinger on the girl’s nose, Sakibara Oujo-sama then winked.”I’ve heard many things about you, you know”, she said, her voice still playful, “one of the many things I’ve heard was that you’re the next in line for the succession of the family robes of the Sakibara family; therefore you must be ready to lead the Shinto council of Priests and Priestesses in all of our little Nippon...can you do that?” At that peculiar question, Midori returned her gaze to the pregnant woman next to her. Narrowing her eyes, the braided brunette drew back from her touch and heatedly retorted, “Are you questioning my abilities, Sakibara Oujo-sama?” “Nani? Me? Why, no, Midori-Ore-sama! I am not in league to do such a thing! After all, you had been chosen by Kimiko-Obaa-chan and she must’ve been right in her decisions, hasn’t she?” At the tone of the other woman’s last statement, Midori decided to ignore her again and looked to the side. While it was true that the next in line was the assumed to be taking the position, Midori was filling the position well; to a tee even!

And yet, Sakibara Oujo-sama sounded like she knew more than she was letting on. Much more. But she didn’t have to listen to her! After all, Kimiko-Obaa-sama had chosen her and that was that! There was nothing else to be said; the facts were facts! Scoffing as she had almost been convinced to think otherwise, Midori scoffed at her wayward train of thought and defiantly returned her gaze towards the smiling woman who had been looking at her the entire time. Jumping slightly as she was reflected back into the static pine-coloured eyes, Midori smirked and thumped her chest lightly, having not forgotten about the little ones still nestling within her kimono top. “As of today...I promise you this, Sakibara Oujo-sama: not only will I lead the Nippon Shinto council, but I will also prepare myself for the coming of your daughter! After all, you are expecting a child, aren’t you? Let me take her under my wing someday; I will make you see that Obaa-sama hadn’t made a wrong decision...I will make you see that Midori Sakibara will see to that your daughter be a Priestess worthy of her family name! For even if she doesn’t have any sort of spiritual entity whatsoever, that doesn’t mean that she still won’t be able to brag that she had been trained by Midori Sakibara, Honorary High Priestess of the Nippon Shinto Council!!!” By the time she had finished her speech, the Honorary Priestess had been up on her feet, with finger strongly pointed down towards the woman who was now giggling as if she had seen something really funny. Had she taunted the girl just to earn such a reaction from her? Or was the mischievous Oujo-sama simply playing with our Priestess into making such a wager? Either way, the hazel-haired woman on the ground was now laughing heartedly and Midori was reddening and puffing as she would go through another onset of frustration. As her laughter soon grew down, Sakibara Oujo-sama gave one last chuckle before giving a huge take of breath and placing her two hands upon her belly, her right above her left one. Her eyes calmly closed as the faint silence resumed between the two women, Oujo-sama then dropped her head down to look at her protruded stomach, where within it was currently developing what would be her future child. Opening her eyes half-lidded yet this time not looking at Midori but at her belly, the hazel-haired woman smiled softly and started rubbing the belly slowly, moving one hand below, and with both hands, she was slowly circling the round stomach back and forth, left to right; then giggling softly as she enjoyed the unseen reactions that only a mother would know. Midori, meanwhile, scoffed once more and proceeded to try and awaken the little chicks which had yet to leave their human chest nest.

“..Would you like to feel her?” She then asked the surprised Midori, who, unexpectedly, ended up staring at her again. As their eyes had met in surprise for the second time that afternoon, the two women (Midori in particular) lit up in giggles and as Midori was climbing up to settle the little ones back in their real nests, the braided brunette looked over her shoulder and hopped back down, her feet crashing once again into the snow. Kneeling back down to sit on the ground, Midori then smiled and slowly raised a hand towards the belly. “Ahhh...Wait...”Sakibara Oujo-sama said, pausing as she then stopped in her caressing of both hands to leave one hand to place over Midori’s. “Ohhh...Thanks.” Guiding the other’s hand around the soft surface, Midori then gasped as they stilled their hands in place. That’s when they felt it.

Rather, that was when she felt it. The all-powerful “Baby bump”. That one little reaction from the child inside that would easily make tens of thousands of mothers and friends alike squeal in unison. After all, it’s not often you get to feel the kick, or the head even, if it’s a stubborn little male sleeping in there. And for normal mortals, that was pretty much great in itself; but for people like Midori, it was much more profound than that. Swallowing as she asked to travel furthermore around the stomach, the brunette swallowed the umpteenth lump in her mouth as her hand was glided down around towards the concealed navel of Oujo-sama’s stomach; that’s when she felt the other bump again. But even more, Midori had also felt the powerful stream of chi that had passed from the inner limb of muscle towards her hands, creating slight clash of auras. The result she encountered was stunning Midori; usually when even in the conception stage, babies were measured with normal, regulated chi levels; but then again was she dealing with an ordinary baby here?

Another chuckle was emitted from Sakibara Oujo-sama’s mouth as Midori then released her hand from the woman’s large abdomen. As she felt it, another light spark flew between her fingers and the stomach, making the girl widen her eyes. What incredible power was floating within this child? Midori, slightly overwhelmed by her discovery, slightly backed away and almost fell on the snow; if her hands hadn’t cushioned her fall, making her sit up instead. Once more returning her proper hands to caress her belly, Sakibara Oujo-sama then leaned back against the tree and returned her gaze towards the sky, now brightening up with the slight cameo of the sun behind a cloud. “Why Midori-Ore-sama seems surprised a bit, ne? That was more than just a mere “baby bump” wasn’t it?” She then said and winked at the flabbergasted woman next to her.

“W-what’s her name?”The girl reluctantly asked, now wishing she hadn’t had such a big mouth. She, training that powerhouse? Yeah, right. Now she wished she hadn’t gone off the wire like that. In return, Oujo-sama had decided to taunt the Priestess-in-training, blinking curiously and leaning a head over to the other girl; she claimed she hadn’t been listening earlier. “Hmmm? Midori-Ore-sama is asking what now? Sakibara Oujo-sama couldn’t really hear you. I was too busy watching the snow fall and listening to my little girl here.” Frowning again as she further played with, Midori rolled her eyes and crossed her arms, choosing to look nowhere but straight into the eyes of the older woman before her.

“What’s her name, Oujo-sama?” she repeated slowly, smirking as she did so. That oughta teach her. Giggling again at the younger girl’s frail attempt to get back at her, the expectant mother looked back at Midori and leaned to her ear.

“...Kikyo.”

Without another word, the mirthful Oujo-sama giggled once again and then with grace and slowness contradicting her current state as an expectant, the young woman stood up on her feet, wiping the traces of snow and petals from her jeans and coat then clapped her hands of the remains. Just as Oujo-sama was to address again the awaiting Midori, a yell for the said girl was coming their way from behind. Komagata-kun was running towards them, looking as desperate and exhausted as ever. Scoffing at his horrid running, Midori rolled her eyes and turned the other way, when she was abruptly pulled back by Oujo-sama and her ear was again brought to the older woman’s mouth.”...Midori-Ore-sama will be taking my daughter under her wing at Christmas time, yes?” Blinking at the odd request, Midori shrugged nonetheless and looking back at the smiling Oujo-sama, nodded. As she was left to go back off into the nearby temples, Komagata-kun was just on the verge of arriving behind Oujo-sama when the woman had turned around to meet him first. “Hello, Komagata-kun...your prayer for thanks went well, I presume?” The huffing boy straightened and bowing once in apology, nodded at her question.

“And you, Oujo-sama? Was conversing with Midori-miko-sama fruitful?” Again she nodded at the thought. “But! Let us not dwell on that; instead let us go inside to see Obaa-chan...She must’ve been awaiting us for the past last hour now!” Nodding at his earnest request, Sakibara Oujo-sama gracefully walked forward, with the bumbling Komagata-kun following behind. As they finally came inside, a team of shrine maidens quickly took over from Komagata-kun and were already surrounding the hazel-haired woman with salutations and hellos; and rushing Oujo-sama towards the dressing room where a formal kimono would be awaiting her for the meeting. Then while she was left to her own devices, it was then that Oujo-sama was then fraught with realization; how couldn’t she have noticed how cold it was outside? It had seemed rather nicely warm for a snow-filled day yet in the entirety of the time she had spent with Midori, she had never been attacked with sneezes or shivers...

Of course...it could also be...

She looked down and again caressed the bare belly of her child beneath her. Life was really incredible to her. ”...Galatea, is it? No...Key of Salvation you may be, but you are first and foremost, my little girl, my dear little Kikyo... After all, Galatea is but merely your former self, my child...But please, please answer me this; was it you who protected your mother from the dangers of the cold? I thank you for that, young one. I also thank you for protecting every one of us in the future...for I know, I know that whatever perils may come for you; you will address them; and whatever dangers may attack you; I know that you shall not be alone....you cannot be alone when you face them...!!”The last sentence had almost been in a whimpering cry.

“O-Oujo-sama?” One of the awaiting maidens had asked curiously, peeking in to see what was the matter. Gasping as she saw the slunken form of her mistress, the maiden quickly lost no time and yelled for others’ assistance; she then returned to her mistress and knelt to her side, placing her hands on her shoulders.” Is Oujo-sama alright?” she asked tentatively again as she watched the usually composed and calm face transformed into a bawling and pained face, with hands clutching protectively around her belly. Taking a look behind her and blinking as she saw no trace of water currently flowing, the maiden nonetheless stayed slightly concerned.

“Oujo-sama?” she asked again as she still received no response. Or at least not until she then watched as the crying woman rose back up to her knees and smiled at the maiden next to her. Her smile seeming familiar to her, the maidens (now having arrived in the room for the last five minutes) nonetheless circled themselves around Oujo-sama and one by one, tasked themselves on trying to make her beautiful. Once again lost in her thoughts as she was currently being prepared and pampered, Oujo-sama smiled and as she was closing her eyes, her last thoughts of the day circled within her head.

Midori-Ore-sama...I do thank you as well for that generous offer...I feel that you and my daughter will get along very well; I know it. After all, won’t you both be fun and interesting in the future? Christmas is indeed coming soon; and on the day the Lord’s son was born, on Christmas our own light of Salvation shall illuminate our own world from the clutches of darkness...and they’ll be presents galore!!!Unable to help herself again, Oujo-sama then lit up into another fit of happy and mirthful giggles. Why was this? To this day, only a selected number of people ever found out why exactly she was always in such a good mood.

Gaia guardians chapter 5

Gaia guardians

Rating: T (mild violence, mild language and mild nudity in later chapters)

Genre: Action/adventure, drama, romance (later chapters)


Prologue Epsilon- Post super-shock aftermath
(Whatever had happened, something must’ve been...?)

One week and four days after the “invasion” attempt, in Hanamomi hospital

Eyes suddenly awoke in a sudden start as the young bedridden girl jerked her body upwards, blinking herself back to life. Glancing from side to side, Yuzumi Mimiya narrowed her eyes and looked around her new surroundings. Yes, the awfully stale smell, the many occupied beddings and the people in white frantically running around were all signs leading that she was in a hospital. And her own form of clothing had been the aqua-like colored shirt that all medical patients were required to wear...a small blush came over her cheeks as thoughts of her having been undressed while having been unconscious came to mind and the girl quickly huddled up and propped her hands over her chest defiantly as she again took curious glances around. The dark-skinned girl then prodded her covered forehead as she finally took notice of the large weight of bandages wrapped on her forehead. Rubbing her fingers back and forth, the still-distraught and nearsighted Yuzumi was still in her own thoughts until she was met with a prodding of a foreign finger and with another start, the vice-captain jumped and slightly drew herself back. Tsutsumi Hsieh snickered at her friend’s slow reflexes and then gave Yuzumi a full hand wave of a hello.

“Onna,” she said still with mischievous air, “feeling better now that you’ve had your long nap?” The kendo assistant-captain was replied with a brief nod from her startled friend before she had sighed and taking a nearby chair to turn it around to its back and sit upon it. Tsutsumi was a little covered in band-aids herself, though they had seemed of minor injuries compared to Yuzumi’s; after all, the latter was in the bed while the former was still alive with little scrapes.

Having regained composure (and dignity somewhat), Yuzumi sighed and rose her knees to her chest. “...Yes, I had a very nice nap, thanks for the warm and meaningful notice. How long was I out for anyway?” Tsutsumi then looked away from her to the ceiling, pretending to think, but Yuzumi didn’t buy the act. “Tsutsu-chan...I was only out for, what...a few hours, right?” The shorter girl again pretended ignorance as deadly silence resumed.

“How long was I out for already, dammit?” Came the frustrated yet worried reply as Yazumi suddenly clutched both hands at her friend’s collar and forcibly jerked her friend closer, shocked face inching upon angry yet anxious grimace. With a gulp, the bespectacled girl drew her friend’s fists away from her neck collar to hold them in her own hands. Brown black eyes widened as Yuzumi mentally prepared herself for the surprising news that she would hear. With a nervous gulp, Tsutsumi swallowed and finally managed to utter,

“...Well, you’ve been ‘out of commission’ for the since last week, at best.”

“...W-What?” came the naturally shocked reply. “I’ve been out for...A week and a half?” It was Tsutsumi’s turn to nod gravely and slowly, that nod however being far from reassuring to the now distressed Yuzumi. As the hands drew back into the bed, the confused female released a shaken breath and held her head in her hands. Tsutsumi sighed and frowned. “Yeah, you were out for a little while. This was of course after that incident at the Tajiri Shinkansen station...Can you at least remember that?”

Yuzumi blinked as she looked back to her friend with wide-eyes. Wait...was it the same incident that had involved the Priest and that monster thing and all that...? Again did the short-haired girl across from her nod. “If you’re thinking about that moment we’d experienced, you’re completely right. After the priest guy had appeared and made his entrance, telling us then to ‘run off to a safe place’ or something like that...” Then came a roll of eyes from the kendo captain, nodding again as she had remembered that moment; because their “safe place” so to say was actually far from the safe place that they should’ve gone to. Tsutsumi, eager and hardy to watch “that priest kicks some super kung-fu ass”, had suggested that they were to stay behind...or at least watch from a nearby shield of a broken wall that had somehow remained within the red field of space that had been surrounding them since the youma first appeared.

Yuzumi sighed and clasped her fingers together as Tsutsumi then took to explaining the rest of the story. “...Yeah, so after that happened, the fight ensued and the priest was totally kicking the monster’s ass but then again the youma was giving the guy hell too, so then...fight after fight, punch after punch, kick after kick and power blast after power blast...”

“...A flash of bright light suddenly appeared from above, piercing through the red barrier field, right?”Yuzumi then interrupted, watching at her friend’s surprised reaction again. “Pretty much...But then...to be honest, I don’t quite remember what went on while the light show happened. I do remember that I then suddenly woke up...and that you had been on top of me, again.” A light blush came on both girls’ cheeks as Tsutsumi rolled her eyes and coughed to dispel the awkward tension that had arisen. Yuzumi then blinked as she drew a hand behind her back and hissed as she felt a sharp pain even through the bandages that covered her back wounds. “...Looks like I covered your ass again, huh? At the cost of my own no less, so it’s ass for an ass.” Yuzumi then stuck her tongue out and snickered as she watched Tsutsumi as she tried to decipher the meaning of her odd and somewhat vulgar-toned joke.

“...So your memory isn’t failing you at all, but yeah. Again you had gone and done something stupid like that. Just because you’re my friend and all that...” Yuzumi then shrugged and smiled slightly before crossing her arms and returning back to topic. “Sooo...with that said, technically you’re as amnesiac and clueless about the whole incident as I am, eh?” Again did Tsutsumi nod as she reluctantly agreed. Leaning back in her bed and closed her eyes in thought, Yuzumi then looked to the ceiling and narrowed here eyes as if searching for answers.

Callisto...did the haunting voice suddenly come from one ear and out the other as a breeze flew in from the nearby window. Blinking, Yuzumi raised brows and looked around for signs of anything suspicious or out of the ordinary. T-there it was again! She thought glancing from one side to the other back and forth, T-that weird, freakin’ voice that had creeped me out for the last little while..!!! As she watched her confused friend peering around the room for something that she didn’t see, Tsutsumi decided to stay put in her seat instead of taking another opportunity to freak her older friend out of her wits. After all, now wasn’t a good time; the doctors had somewhat signalled that due to her concussion, the dark-skinned girl might experience a few strange likely after effects; this must’ve been one of them. Growling as she failed to find the owner of the strange voice, Yuzumi reluctantly gave up the visual search around the hospital room and resumed her conversation with the slightly-distracted Tsutsumi, who couldn’t hide her lack of understanding her friend’s current behaviour.

“Gomen ne, Tsutsu-chan,” the older girl said, scratching her head sheepishly,”I really don’t know what came over me back there. I thought I had heard something, that’s all.” The other girl shrugged and nodded, not wanting to drag on this conversation any longer but wanting to return to lighter-toned talking. This time it was Yuzumi’s turn to be the icebreaker. “Sooo,” she started, opening up the conversation, “...How was school without me there? Did anyone actually notice my leave of absence yet?” Tsutsumi blinked and then looked above as she once again tried to dig up memories of the past school week that had flown by in her head; tapping her chin, the kendo assistant-captain frowned then looked back at her friend with a satisfied face as she finally managed to remember something.
“Ah! We have a new student...though I really did get to catch his name; though I think it’s Higato Genzosuke...I think I saw him before though, can’t pinpoint where...”

“So sempai has a new victim, eh? Too bad for him. Moving onnn...and?”

“Well...here’s a real scoop that might get ya; neither Maori nor our brave captain leader have been seen since we had last seen them; approximately about two weeks back.”

“Ara? Neither of them? And the incident just happens to occur at the same time that we had..?” Yuzumi repeated, dumbfounded by the fact. Tsutsumi again nodded strongly as she tried to make herself look serious. The older girl next to her smirked at her sudden spring effort and shrugged, dismissing the playful urges that swarmed over her. It wasn’t really time to be doing things like trying and tease her kohai senseless right now; they had more important things to figure out, or rather Yuzumi herself had a few things that she had to unlock about her own self. Once more her thoughts revolved around the eerie yet familiar voice that had whispered some name in her ear. Who was she kidding, though? It wasn’t just some name and that hadn’t been the first time that that had happened either...

I’ve been having these weird things happen to me since I first came here to Japan 9 years ago...Or then again, I remember...something about when I was just a little baby...it’s vague, but I still remember it quite clearly, it’s strange...That field trip in Greece once, near some islands or something...

But then all thoughts and dilemmas were immediately thrown aside by the large rumbling of two rather disturbed stomachs, making the owner of those stomachs blush and jump at the sudden sound of their empty bellies. Nervous and embarrassed chuckles then exchanged between the two young women, Yuzumi again decided to take the lead as she tried to step off the bed and maybe lead them towards the kitchen, but then she suddenly stopped and hissed as the pain in her spine returned. Just as the dark-skinned girl was on the verge of collapsing on her back however, the quickfast Tsutsumi quickly caught onto her friend from behind; but due to sempai’s slightly larger weight and slightly taller height, both girls were sent plummeting towards the tiled floor with large “WHOOMPH!” sounds as they crashed downward and lost lots of breath in that single bound; it was also then known then that in future moments, it would officially established who would be one be on top and the other on be bottom.

“Onna...?” The assistant-captain asked the muffled question coming from below as the dizzy Yuzumi glanced down at her trampled friend as she sat on her stomach. “Hmm?” Yuzumi replied back, unable to help herself to a playful smirk as she looked down the aggravated Tsutsumi. The shorter girl, noticing the wide grin on her sempai, decided to turn the teasing around back to her favour. Raising a forefinger to poke and prod at a nearing concealed butt cheek, Tsutsumi raised brows in a sly, mischievous air. Meanwhile, Yuzumi now having looked away from her scheming friend, felt herself giggle as she felt her ass being poked and groped endlessly.

“Onna...” Tsutsumi then started again, looking back at the target, “When did you gain weight? You certainly couldn’t have eaten while you were comatose, were you?” Then a pretended gasp escaped the emotionally-stricken woman as Yuzumi abruptly rose back up and ignoring the popping sounds from her aching back, marched away from her now guilty friend, who had now reconsidered having said that and jumped back onto her feet as well, yelling for her sempai to wait and catch up with her. Luckily the situation had arisen when Yuzumi, now hissing and grimacing in the hallways of the crowded hospital, was again about to collapse; but again did Tsutsumi came to the rescue but this time aiding her from the side as Yuzumi used the wall to stabilize herself.

“...Okay, Okay!!” came the panted and tired reply,” Are we even now? An eye for an eye? An ass for an ass? Whatever?”

“Yeah, yeah,” came the equally groggy and faint reply as Yuzumi gripped her friend’s shoulder closer for a half-sided hug and grinned,” Whatever. You’ve got my ass and I’ve got yours. Now let’s go eat; I think they’re serving waffles anyway.” And with that, she then took advantage of her Tsutsu-chan’s proximity and attempted to get a kiss on the girl’s ear; I said attempted because the said girl had ducked away from the incoming lips, making Yuzumi kiss the surface of the air instead of warm flesh and skin.

“Aw, ikezu Tsutsu-chan!! Refusing my thank you kiss?” Yazumi said in a playful whine as the girls laughed and continued onward towards the kitchen.

Chapter 5- Flashbax, spinbacks, twirly-wirly and a bruisin’ beatin’
(a.k.a. Rise, Reflections and Revelations of the Key’s Catalyst premiero nivel: The reluctant protector to be)

Meanwhile, in Hanamomi, one week before the prologue

Fangs crunched into shadowed flesh and minutes later, the figure was suddenly blasted out of the hallway and was crushed into the debris nearby, painfully screeching as the following Inugami fired another blast from its mouth and rendered the yoma to cinders and pieces. Now panting slightly from many of his comeback battles, Tsume took a deep breath and returned into position as he raised his head to search again for any more potential enemies. From the way he looked now, one who lived around here and by chance (or not), had known or seen Tsume at least once certainly couldn’t have ever known that this was the exact same mutt that slumbered on the doorstep for half the day before moving on back inside. Sure it blatantly looked like Tsume didn’t resemble anything like he had before; no, rather, you certainly couldn’t have ever known that the lazy, greedy and gluttonous German shepherd known as Tsume of the Sakibara family could’ve ever turned out like this. One could’ve never guessed that this same dog, who stood proudly on all his strong, muscular legs with head held high and face on alert, was also known as the same Tsume that just happened to be the messenger to send your neighbour’s house pet into oblivion. No one could’ve ever guessed that this same canine, with height doubled in size, (making it almost reach the skies like a giant) had also stood on all fours...when nature or meat called him. No one could’ve guessed that with those proud, green observant eyes, which scanned all sides for incoming danger, could’ve also belonged to the same useless dog that seemed to have great lack of sight due to the mess of hair covering his face. And no one, no one, no one could’ve EVER figured that the dark, small, perfect and able snout could’ve ever belonged to the carnivorous mass of fur and fat that was Tsume.

But believe it or not, the truth was the truth, and despite appearances, the dog (more like wolf though) that was standing guard in what was the destroyed hallway of the Sakibara household, had also once been the poor, selfish yet clueless and semi-productive animal known as Tsume. But why use such a short of cover, you wonder? That is something that cannot be said yet. Looking more like a giant wolf than the much smaller German shepherd it once was, this new Tsume now wore a perfectly-fitting red collar that was strapped around his neck, the highlight of this accessory being the large, shiny bell that hung down from the red color; inked with the kanji characters for “inu” (dog) and “iru” (fire), they truly represented the facets that gave this Inugami its proper purpose. Growling as he sensed more intruders coming his way, the four-legged guardian glared upwards and breathing in a strong intake of air, released the puff of breath in a flare of fire, spreading the blazes in the air as he incinerated any incoming enemies that would’ve been coming their way.

Talk about a real burning sky.

“Whoo! Nice one Tsume!” the giant wolf had then heard as he turned his head to the side to see the waving figure of his master Shouta as the dog then returned upstairs to meet with the smaller boy. Still unused to their larger height difference (Tsume was reaching the sky while Shouta was barely up to his leg.), Shouta was still proud of the fact that this was once the same dog than he had trained with once. Though he was being stubborn about the whole thing, he didn’t seem to care that Tsume was actually doing all this to protect Kikyo, and not him. Of course, Shouta had been long aware of the dog’s genuine form; in fact, everyone was in the know about this but Kikyo. Why was this, he hadn’t a clue, but he was proud to have at least one thing that the blue-haired girl hadn’t for once. She held everything, including his sister, so for once, Shouta was glad of the tables turning for this one, small thing. But even then, as he was often reminded against his will, Kikyo was the biggest subject of Midori’s talks when the two siblings were often alone together. Since having taken care of the girl since a young age, Midori had been charged with watching over her in all aspects and for reasons unknown, her spiritual training and with time, Midori became the famed “esteemed assistant” that she had been known for along with “High Priestess” Kikyo Sakibara. Shouta, on the other hand, had gotten his sister’s attention whenever he could. It wasn’t that she wasn’t paying attention to him, no; it wasn’t anything of the sort.

After all, Midori was only doing what had been ordered of her by the elders, and Shouta had to respect their decision. Ever since that day, he had to watch as his sister’s priorities gradually altered, and with time, his own had shifted as well. Even though he was inwardly reluctant about protecting Kikyo, he had figured that having taken on this job of protecting her while nee-chan was away was something that would make her happy.

However, if he had the choice, he would’ve never taken on this job in the first place...

With a startle, Shouta looked behind him as he looked at the closed doors where his cousin was lying. There was that strange flicker of energy, rising and descending like a wave. Was something so strong really emanating from the blue-haired baka? As much as he was witnessing this before his own eyes, there was still some sceptic part of him that just couldn’t believe that this raw, powerful, unmanaged energy was all belonging to his own “cousin”...? Despite all of what he was sensing, Shouta was still refusing to believe that Kikyo could wield this kind of power. He wasn’t even sure if the power was rightfully hers...she may have been “The Honorary Priestess” maybe, but that was just a title, right? Even though, 10 years back, Midori had once held the same title...until they had been conferred to care for the said girl Shouta was now assigned to protect.

At least Tsume had been there through it all with him, somewhat. While the dog was attacking the incoming swarm of yoma and defending the boy’s own hide, Shouta was finally putting all his earlier practices into work as he had placed on a barrier, or kekkai, to surround the perimeters where Kikyo was; basically the large square that was her room and the adjoining bathroom. While she was blocked from the outside world, at the same time however, she was shielded from attempts at enemy attacks. Yet all the while her unmistakable aura was flickering constantly and was even threatening to break and colliding with Shouta’s own aura.

I mean, it’s crazy, he thought, swallowing as he then closed his eyes, at the rate this is going, whatever’s happening, the baka’s aura seems to be cracking through the first layers...!! Growling at his distractions, Shouta closed his eyes and attempted to win and focus back into concentration. Try to clear your mind of all inhibitions, all obstacles and all earthly obstructions...

His outline now brimming with chi around his hunched body, Shouta was gradually opening all the doors to his inner energy systems through deep breaths and mute chants. The boy then finally opened his eyes, and they held a light blue tint to them. While this may have made Shouta blind to the unused human eye, one who would’ve been a practioner of the Shinto arts wouldn’t be fooled and instead would’ve praised him for the prodigious feat. While there wasn’t an audience to give Shouta congratulations at what he had just did, Tsume would’ve done so if not for the incoming swarm of yoma that were suddenly drawing in for an attack again. And there the mutt went again, leaping towards the sky to wretch, tear and burn away at his enemies, leaving the young master behind to literally keep up the fort once more.

Even though he looked concentrated, Shouta was actually still slightly nervous on the inside. After all, as much as the astral sight was awesome to use, it was still very disorienting on his person. Mostly because Shouta had been lucky enough to have caught a glimpse of the attack having been done before and he had caught up on it on that one time Midori had used it; but since his training had revolved around the creation, maintenance and strengthening of the kekkai and none of it had taught anything on the usage of the astral sight, it had just been his very good case of beginner’s luck that the brown-haired boy had managed to keep up his guard like this, especially when the keeping of the barrier and the usage of the astral sight to foresee all incoming auras was putting on a large strain of his energy already, with the addition of Kikyo’s aura waves bouncing up and down and putting more stress on him.

But...this is the mission that Midori-nee-chan had assigned me; she entrusted me to protect the baka spazzing out her astral aura behind me. It’s a mission that I’m not very fond of maybe, but I have to remember that I’m not doing it for her sake, but for nee-chan’s...not the baka’s, but Midori-nee-chan’s sake, Shouta. I mean, since 10 years ago, she’s been so focused on her, and more than the elders could ever think now...If Tsume’s up there though, fighting limb by limb for her sake, I suppose there’s gotta be a reason...If the elders had assigned nee-chan when no one else suited their tastes...I know there’s a reason...

But I know that the real question that’s taunted me in the back of my head so much; why, why, why she had given her so much attention over me... why had they all given her such attentions and such praise over nee-chan...

Just how special is that blue-haired baka is to you, nee-chan, so much that you might’ve even ...love her?

***

(Flashback)

Tsusushi temple, 10 years ago

“Midori-nee-chaaan!!!” the big-toothed toddler boy called while trying to walk in his new zori sandal shoes. Today was the day that his Midori-nee-chan was supposed to meet him to go to the prayer altar with him today...it was the day when his wish was supposed to come true.”Midori-nee-chan’s gonna play with me today, I just know it!” he thought, smiling as he resumed his yelling. Looking at his wooden shoes once more before taking one step at a time, a 4-year old Shouta Sakibara again yelled “Miiiidoriii-neee-chaaannn!!” with widened mouth, almost yelling it at the top of his lungs, but then suddenly gasping as he then found himself coughing once, then again. Suddenly a young woman draped in a white kimono came running from behind the kneeling boy and quickly kneeled down also and patted the little boy’s back softly. Rising him to his feet as he intended to crawl, the young woman then turned the hiccupping Shouta to face her.

“Shouta-dono! You mustn’t yell so loud; people are studying nearby!” she addressed, the fluster and worry displayed strongly on her features. The clueless boy titled his head to the side as the maid looked at him seriously. “H-huh? “came the reply of confusion,”Gomen ne, Ayaka-chan, but do you know where nee-chan is? I think today might be the day I finally get to play with her!” He replied before coughing again. His caretaker sighed and shook her head. Wherever did he get these ideas of his? “Shouta-dono!” she returned, pressing the current matter at hand,” You shouldn’t have escaped from my sight! You almost would’ve made us late for the daily prayer recital this morning...again!” The braided woman sighed and shook her head as she took out a sheet of Kleenex and wiped off the drool seeping out of the boy’s mouth. After hearing him cough a little more, Ayaka sighed and ruffling his hair methodically, she had managed to clean up and place the boy’s hair into proper place. Still confused about his lack of seeing Midori there, the boy still hadn’t grasped the fact that his sister wouldn’t be coming.

“I-Isn’t nee-chan coming?” He asked tentatively as he was dragged by the flustering Ayaka. Sighing again as she listened to his question, the young woman rolled her eyes and glanced at him.

“No,” then came the sharp and quick answer, “She said she couldn’t be available today. The elders are piling Honda-dono with new scrolls and new practices for the coming of Hikari no Hime sama...So I am with you once again, Shouta-dono, for your day. Shall we enjoy ourselves today?”

As Shouta was slightly shaken by the answer, his face had by then soured into a grimace. Ayaka, noticing his slight change in behaviour, decided to ignore the little boy’s mood swing and keep her “happy” face; though, as she knew what was coming and this time, she had come prepared with the necessary ammunition in case the boy would then choose to “explode” on her. Sniffing, the young boy then followed his maid as they quickened their pace towards a closed temple, their wooden and straw steps clacking loudly, Ayaka’s more than Shouta’s.

Now barefoot in socks, the duo tip-toed inside the crowded temple grounds, thus joining the many other future holy figures in-training who were also praying for their various Oriental deities in the room. As they took their turns, Ayaka and Shouta then kneeled and bowed down towards the large statue of their choice that stood before them. While Ayaka had recited aloud the daily prayers for world peace, love and serenity in their own lives, Shouta was once again, making his prayers for his Midori-nee-chan. Of course, he didn’t want to upset anybody about his “selfish”, earthly prayers, so he mostly kept to himself and simply mouthed his request to the golden Buddha above him. He may have been 4 years old in human years, but unfortunately Shouta had already learned to look at others and know when to open your mouth and when to close it. As for why he was centering his prayers on his beloved older sister, you ask? Well, having been the original daughter of the main family in power, the Sakibara family, the girl had to quickly hone up to her responsibilities; and as such, Shouta had often found himself alone when wanting to play, or even converse with someone. After all, there wasn’t anyone the boy could really connect with; nor were there any sort of boys who were even close or a bit far away from his age range. And to make things worse, she was always working or shutting herself up in her room, swarming herself with piles of books and scrolls, seeming to be endlessly studying and training away; when Shouta came here to the altar temple, he always prayed that one day Midori would just bide all of her time and use at least 5 or 10 minutes of that crowded, busy time she held in her hands to at least take a glance and smile at him. And maybe...try to play with him? Whether it was a quick game of Ro-Sham-Bo or the ABC game, whichever would be able to bring them together for at least a good amount of time, Shouta was always constantly hoping for the day when that wish would finally be granted. He didn’t want to repeat the small tragedy of today. “All I wanted to do was to play with her...” he thought, clutching his hands tighter together, “...Just like we used to when we were kids back in R-Rukongai...” But now that she had been lowered from her position as the heiress to the main family robes to having been chosen to serve as the “Catalyst to Hikari no Hime”, Shouta knew that Midori would have even more work to do, more spells to practice and much, much and much less time for him. Even though Ayaka-chan was their assigned caretaker, Shouta knew that sometimes she just could be so fed up with the boy’s antics...

Pouting at his train of thought, the young 4-year old Shouta frowned and was unconsciously slumping downwards. He was however, unaware that his body was slowly lulling into a sleeping fetal position. And while he didn’t exactly know what exactly the elders were telling his Midori-nee-chan what to do, he knew that they were trying to separate his favourite older sister for the sake of her giving her attention to protecting someone else. They were trying to get Midori to protect someone else other than Shouta. And in the end, that wasn’t a very good thing. Not a very good thing at all.

“...dono!” The voice then called, making the sleeping Shouta open his eyes, “Shouta-dono!” at the second sound of his name with honorific attached ringing in his ears, Shouta’s eyes opened and he titled his head to look up towards the worried face of his caretaker once again. Sighing, the drooling little boy yawned and then rubbed his half-lidded eyes of sleep. Groaning slightly as he was still half-awake, Shouta sat up and looked around with slight confusion, but decided to leave the topic of questions for later. Hearing the distant, irritant sigh of his grumbling caretaker as she took his hand and lead him forward towards the gates of the prayer temple, Shouta yawned again and scratched his waist.

Of course when the boy had scratched his waist like that, it only meant one thing; that they both knew that the young boy was to do his little “potty-totty time” very soon, and poor Ayaka-chan would be stuck witnessing his every move to see if he would get his potty training right, like she was forced to do every time while Midori was in training.

Ayaka shivered at the thought and glanced at the boy. Their story was rather tragic from the way she had heard it, even if they were various rumours and gossip just collected into one big phony story. It was even sadder on her part that she might’ve believed the said rumours about them. Noticing eyes on him, the awakened Shouta looked up to meet his caretaker’s eyes, which then quickly wondered away from his big wide eyes towards the blue sky. Outwardly shrugging the thought off, inwardly Shouta was irked at the woman’s sudden attempt at averting his gaze. He knew the story; after all, he and his sister were at the core of it, were they not? So what if they had once been orphans in Rukongai, the spirit district that constituted of the spirit realm of the human Shinigami in the Tenkai region? It wasn’t of their business that they were actually spirits wanting to get second shots at life! It wasn’t any of their business at all!

The more the boy thought about those facts, the more he started to get the feeling that he just wanted to cry. His eyes shut closed as Shouta tried to fight the tears that threatened to spill out from his inner thoughts, each of them piling up in his small conscience. The more he thought upon them, the more they weighed on him, tipping back and forth in order to drive him over the edge. Within minutes of trying to fight these attacking thoughts however, Shouta then felt powerless as in a tidal wave of emotion, drops of water swirled down the boy’s face, more of the salty tears falling down and trickling from his closed eyelids by the second. “Mi...”He started, now going to crying completely, “MIDORI-NEE-CHAAN...!” he yelled and sniffed as he then started to cry, giving out to his willpower.

As she was suddenly thrown aback by her master’s sudden weeping attack, Ayaka quickly pulled out her noted arsenal of candy, all prepared and wrapped in one big bag. Just in case he would be ready to pull out another grand showstopper like this one to get her fired, this time she was up and ready.

“Shouta-dono, please don’t cry,” she said soothingly, her voice hiding every hint of resentment she currently felt for the boy right now. This was after, a public display; and the last thing that the woman wanted to get stapled on her back was the reputation of a bad caretaker.... “Stupid little...crybaby...” she muttered under her breath. As she watched the sullen boy continue to cry though, Ayaka soon got to realize that she hadn’t exactly been the source of the boy’s crying; or at least, if she had been, it wasn’t for the reasons initially suspected of her. But nonetheless that shouldn’t stop her from trying and getting the boy to shut his big pie hole was it? Because whether he had managed to plan out this latest scheme of his or not, Ayaka was certainly not planning to get herself thrown into another “Assessment review plan” seating with the dreaded Lady Kimiko Sakibara...because the last time she had been in the senior woman’s room, she could’ve just felt the ominous, powerful aura that had been radiating menacingly around her person the entire time while she was there. However, she had been spared a dreaded lecture and been given another chance at babysitting her young grandson. As lucky as she may have been though, the cautious Ayaka had a feeling that the next time she would’ve been sent in there for whatever misdemeanour Shouta might’ve reported on her behalf, she most likely wasn’t going to return. Or rather, if she was, that she wasn’t going to return without at least having been scared for her life.

And she wasn’t going to let some little snot-nosed reincarnated brat get in her way of keeping this job.

As she watched Shouta wailing his feelings out of his inflicted system, the braided brunette smirked and then produced a small lollipop wrapper from the plastic bag she had opened, showing the concealed candy to his bawling face. This always grabbed the little ones’ attentions, and if she remembered right, most likely Shouta shouldn’t been of the rare exception.

“...Onegai, Shouta-dono,” she cleared her throat and tried out, her voice feigning the expression of warmth and sincerity, “would you please give me the honour of unwrapping and eating this delicious lollipop piece? I had brought some leftovers in case Shouta-dono was hungry...or perhaps this was wanted he had wanted all day?”
Or perhaps, on days when boys and girls would suddenly just “explode” at you without giving any hinting of why, today might’ve not been a good day to lure out their silence with candy.

As Shouta shook his head and refused to take the bait offered to him, Ayaka growled and swayed the candy in front of him again but felt herself lose a nerve when she saw that he still wasn’t responding to her as he was now so in tuned with his sorrow. “Why in tarnation are you crying so much, Sakibara-dono? Does your lack of seeing Honda-sempai hurt you so much that you would suddenly cry about it?” She yelled, losing her patience with him. She had every reason to, though. To that question, the broken Shouta couldn’t help himself but nod weakly as he hiccupped. Yes, even the mere thought of it was able to bring him to even more tears. But it wasn’t his fault that he was crying. And it wasn’t Ayaka’s fault either, for once. Even though it seemed like he was weak now, in truth inside, Shouta was hurt, and was angry. He was angry at Sakibara Obaa-chan and the elders for having taken his Midori-nee-chan away from him and placing all her attention on another little one...

“W-w-why..??” then came the question, making the already confused Ayaka blink as she again tried her best to understand why exactly Shouta had broken down on her without warning her. By the looks of it, it didn’t seem like he was faking it this time either.

In curious response, Ayaka answered back to the rhetorical question, thinking that she wouldn’t get an answer. “W-why what, Shouta-dono?”

“...Was this “Hikari no Hime sama” so worthy of their time that she had to get the desired attention of nee-chan? Why were they to choose MY own beloved older Sister? I mean, t-they probably could’ve chosen someone else but instead they had chosen her to take responsibility; and then she just...left...and I was forced to tread alone...all alone...!!!” was all the boy muttered selfishly while raising his hands to wipe off his tears. Sniffing the trail of mucus and tears that dribbled down his runny rose and face, Shouta, in his saddened stupor, was then surprised as he witnessed in what would’ve probably been her one and only public display of true altruism; Ayaka wrapping her arms around the smaller boy, letting his water fall on her white robes and seemingly not caring for the dampening sensation that would come over them soon. Sighing rather deeply, the hugging female pressed herself tighter against the quivering Shouta, whom by feeling of another giving him such strong actions, was again moved to weeping and clutching on her shoulders.

“W-why are you hugging me like that, Ayaka-chan?” he asked, quivering and trying to calm himself down. “Why?” she asked back, even managing an encouraging pat on the back. “...Because you’re crying. When kids cry, hugs are usually the only way to calm them down, Shouta-dono. That and candy. Or so I thought.” Listening to her words, Shouta was again brought to her rare attempts at mutual affection. Ayaka-chan, despite her outward exterior, had probably always held some sort of antagonistic jealousy over the siblings’ situation. Unbeknownst to Shouta, he was somewhat acting in the same manner when it involved the placing of his sister’s priorities over him and the famed “Hikari no Hime sama”.

Sighing again, Ayaka-chan drew herself away from her master and then smiled at him. This time, the small gesture again might’ve been the real thing. “Shouta-dono,” she then started as she then gave him a kiss on the forehead,”...you must support Honda-dono in all of her work, despite if it requires your lack of seeing one another. I’m guessing that she misses you too, but her priorities hold an ulterior motive that, sooner or later, will benefit both you and me, and the entire world; so I’m afraid your envious jealousy must be acknowledged and stopped at once.”
Letting out a sniff again, Shouta blinked at the new choice of words he heard. When did Ayaka-chan actually act nice of her own accord? He was really too confused and still too worn out by the crying to try and figure out the woman’s sudden genuine and niceness act. He was just going to be an avid listener.

“...What is Ayaka-chan talking about? How will Hikari no Hime sama give us...be-be..” the boy tried to spell out the word ‘benefit’ but for the moment couldn’t find the right tone to properly spell it out. Again did Ayaka-chan shake her head and decided to test out her patience. After all, he was experiencing his first pangs of jealousy and he hadn’t any idea of his doing so. Taking a deep breath, Ayaka then lead the small boy to nearby steps when she motioned him to sit down. I suppose it’s time to give him a break. He’s just a kid in the end, right? She thought reluctantly.

“...Well Shouta-dono, what Honda-dono will do to help our chosen ‘Hikari no Hime Sama’ will bring much more benefits to this world than you and I could ever pray for. Do you know why that is?” Again did the boy shake his head at the question.
“Because Hikari no Hime sama will one day save this world from utmost danger. And Midori, as her assigned “Catalyst” will be the one charged to trigger Hikari-sama’s hidden power when the time comes. For that, the elders are preparing her for it. When the world is in great danger, Hikari no Hime and her six stars will appear...”

“And then what will happen?” he asked next, making Ayaka giggle slightly. Now he was being quiet but like everyone else, she was sworn to secrecy. She couldn’t tell him anything else right now, but she figured that Shouta would figure things out for himself...

“Well, for that, I’m afraid I can’t tell you; but one day you will find out; Honda-sempai will see you and tell you eventually..” came the mysterious reply as Ayaka-chan then noticed that Shouta had finally stopped crying over his Midori-nee-chan. “Well,” she finally said, taking out the earlier piece of candy she had wanted to shut the boy with,” How about that candy now, Shouta-dono.”

(End flashback)

***

As he opened his eyes, Shouta felt like grinning. He hadn’t a clue why but after having just experienced that moment of projection streaming through his mind. Ayaka-chan had certainly helped him that day. Whether she had wanted it or not, she had aggravated the situation. But nonetheless despite the envy that festered in his loins, the boy still felt a twinge of pride. After all, it wasn’t everyday that your own sister had told you to protect Hikari no hime sama with your life like this. And if he was to protect her until Midori came back, then protect Kikyo he would then. He really didn’t why he was feeling this feeling that he would have to place all his hopes, all his dreams, on this last shot. He wanted to place his trust in Kikyo; because his nee-chan was placing her trust in her.

And as Midori’s younger brother, he hadn’t a choice but to respect his sister’s decision as well.

A concentration of light then surged on Shouta’s hands as he watched the next onslaught of yoma swarm through the sky and all heading towards his vicinity; we,, this time he was dead-on ready. With his thumbs and forefingers pressed together, Shouta then chanted mute words and minutes later, the swarm of monsters were all suddenly obliterated within contact of the growing shield of light. Smiling to himself as he watched the enemy struggle to get through his effective “reject and release” defence attack, Shouta smirked and panted. As he was still using the astral sight, this was still very much straining his system. But he was determined to keep this barrier up for as long as it would take and he couldn’t be in position to care about his health right now because he knew that that wasn’t priority. His sister had drilled him to take Kikyo’s life over his own any day. Because she would’ve given her own for her, then Shouta had no choice but to follow suit. Grunting under his breath as he felt the clashing powers of Kikyo’s aura clawing through his fields, Shouta winced and tightened his forefingers and thumbs, trying to stabilizing the growing opposing energy that was inside his field.

If nee-chan loves you so much that she’s willing to stake her life for you then, Kikyo...

I’m in no choice but to stake my own life for you too...!!!