Fruits Basket Fan Fiction ❯ Sleepless in Sohma House ❯ The Wedding ( Chapter 26 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: Yuki_The_Rat 
Anime/Manga: Fruits Basket Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Comedy | Type: Continuation | Uploaded On: 01.18.2004 | Pages: 8 | Words: 9.6K | Visits: 951 | Status: Completed
Anime/Manga: Fruits Basket Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Comedy | Type: Continuation | Uploaded On: 01.18.2004 | Pages: 8 | Words: 9.6K | Visits: 951 | Status: Completed
Disclaimer: I do not own Fruits Basket or it's characters. It belongs to Takaya Nasuki. Yuki too, and I‘d only corrupt him if he did belong to me.
Hello, my friends. This chapter took much longer then I expected. My grown up world has been grueling, since at work our busiest season starts at the first of the year, and will last until summer… depression as I foresee my stressful future… it has been harder for me to find the time to write, but I intend on continuing to write…. Because it makes me happy!
It was recently pointed out that I use a lot of commas, and not always appropriately either… it is too true… hang my head in shame. I’m sorry… I am, after all, comma girl… I know that I warned you all about this. Really though, this is more due to my crummy proofing skills. I do not use a beta reader… I am self sufficient… but I am always time challenged. When I write, everything pretty much flows out of me, and I try not to think about my grammar during this process. I go back and fix things around the third re-write, but I don’t always catch my boo boos until later on, after I have posted. So… I am afraid you will have to put up with an occasional grammar flaw or five or six or more… but I do appreciate your letting me know. I will try to do better, and I will probably fail. Sorry.
On another note, I would like to thank everyone, again, for reading, and also for your constant reviews and support. Today’s special thank you goes out to Bookwormrose296. This is because, pretty much, every time I post a new chapter Bookwormrose296 is the first person to send a supportive review. It is amazing, I feel so lucky to have such kind readers.
Also, I have to tell you that quite a while back Addy-chan made a suggestion, and it took me a while, but I have decided to use it, sort of. Thank you Addy-chan. Now a warning to those who are faithful to the manga, as opposed to the anime. This chapter includes numerous cameo appearances. I have decided to include Rin and Kureno (though Kureno gets very little playtime), because I felt that all of the zodiac members should attend the wedding. However, I am still waiting for Animenation to get me my import copies of the manga, and even then it will take me forever to translate, so I did research on Rin (found very little on Kureno) and hope that she isn’t too OOC, but I am sure that she will be, I’m sorry. Also three people who have been exceptionally kind to me, and whom I consider friends, will either love me, or hate me for this chapter. I won’t say why, but they will know when they see it. Big hugs, in advance, to my three favorite red heads.
Okay, now read, enjoy… review… thanks.
Sleepless in Sohma House
PART TWENTY SIX - THE WEDDING
TOHRU *
Snow was falling over Sohma compound, big cotton candy drifts of white ice, fresh and pure as Tohru Honda’s heart once was. Standing in her bedroom, her school uniform grasped loosely in her shaky hands, she found herself holding back tears.
“Are you disappointed in me, Mom?” She asked the empty room, before dropping down on the edge of her bed to stare out of the large picture window into her garden of snow.
“Tohru…” The gentle whisper tugged at the corner of her mind. “Tohru, it’s all right. You must know that you have never disappointed me. You were only doing as I have asked. You were only being yourself.”
“Mom…” Tohru cried, her eyes flowing over wetly. “Mom, I’m so tired. I love Akito so much, mom. I love this family so much. It’s just too hard. This hurts too much.”
“The Sohma’s are precious jewels. Their value is determined by those who love them. Stop crying now. You are no longer a child. It is time for you to act as a woman. You have responsibilities.”
“You’re right!” Tohru stated loudly, jumping up from her bed to stand tall and proud, her school uniform clutched tightly in one hand. “I have no time to be crying. I must be strong.” Loosening the tie on her robe, she let it drop to the floor, and slipped into a pair of white lace panties.
“Tohru?” Akito’s voice was followed by a quick knock, before the door slid open, and he entered. “Morning, love.” He’s said warmly, smiling as he took in her nearly naked form.
“Akito!” Tohru stammered nervously, quickly attempting to step into her skirt, but catching it around her ankles, and falling instead.
“Careful.” He laughed, crossing the room to help her back to her feet. He then wrapped one arm around her shoulders, while he ran a finger mischievously along the curve of her waist. “You do realize that I have seen this already?” He teased her, and placed a kiss on the tip of her nose.
“Akito.” Tohru blushed. “I’m sorry… Um… you’re right. Last night, we… and… I am being childish.”
“No.” He countered. “You are not childish. It is normal that you would still feel bashful. I shouldn’t tease you, but you were so cute that I couldn‘t help myself. I see that you’re on your way to school, isn’t it a bit late?”
“Yes. I am really late, and I have already missed my test completely. This is so bad. I’ve fallen behind. At this rate, I will never graduate.”
“That’s my fault, isn’t it.” Akito acknowledge.
“No… that’s not what I meant. It isn’t you… I mean, it’s my own fault. I haven’t been studying very hard. Besides, I have such a hard time with math. I’m stupid with numbers. Yuki used to tutor me, but now he can’t, and…”
“Why?” Akito wondered. “Why can’t Yuki tutor you?”
Tohru looked up at him. Hello, wasn’t it obvious? Akito’s dark side was dangerously jealous of Yuki. On top of that, Yuki still did not completely accept that Tohru was going to marry Akito. Yuki didn’t actually say this, but on the few times that they had spoken, at school, Yuki had seemed distant and uncomfortable. If the subject of the wedding came up, it was like a signal for the silver haired boy to quickly make an excuse and exit.
“It’s fine with me if Yuki tutors you. Tell him that I have requested that he do so.” Akito suggested.
“No… No, I couldn’t do that.” Tohru said honestly, and pictured Yuki’s reaction. In Akito’s eyes it was a request, but to Yuki it would feel like an order.
“Well, then, suit yourself. Get dressed, and I will have the car readied. I will drive you to school this morning, it is much too cold out for you to walk.”
“Thank you.” Tohru mumbled, waiting until he had stepped from the room to finish getting dressed.
SHIGURE * (Two weeks later)
Shigure was sitting at the kotatsu, staring at the dinner invitation, when the door slid open. The wind blew fiercely through the living room, carrying with it a burst of chilly snow, and two wet boys. Yuki and Haru were laughing cheerfully, their hands full of mushy snowballs. Shigure barely had time to duck, before he was bombarded.
“Now, now, you two. Aren’t you a little old for snowball fights?” Shigure teased, pretending he was not completely happy to see them behaving in such an adorable manner. It was amazing actually, to see Yuki laughing. It was something Shigure had once deemed impossible. Haru’s love, his unconditional acceptance, and unwavering devotion, had broken Yuki free from his melancholy shell. At the same time, Yuki had tamed Haru. His love seemed to have chased Black Haru indefinitely away, or perhaps, Shigure speculated naughtily, Black Haru only showed himself in the bedroom. ‘I wouldn’t mind being a fly on the wall for that show.’ Shigure giggled impishly.
“We’re Sorry, Shigure. You are right.” Haru apologized, but when Shigure raised himself from behind the table, thinking himself safe, he got whacked in the forehead, with Haru’s last snowball.
“You’re going down!” Shigure threatened, and turned to search for ammunition. He found only shushed ice. “Well, later, you’re going down.” The boys were already racing upstairs, out of harms way, when Shigure remembered that he needed to speak with them.
“Yuki, Haru, hold up a moment.” He said, standing and heading up the stairs after them, still holding the invitation in his hand.
“Yes?” Both boys asked together.
Shigure held out the invitation to Yuki.
“It’s from Akito. It appears that he is having a pre-wedding dinner. All of the members of the zodiac have been asked to attend. He expects the two of you, as well.”
“Is it like a rehearsal dinner, or something?” Haru wondered.
“Not exactly. Akito’s wedding will not be rehearsed. A pre-wedding dinner is not the norm. I do not know why Akito has planned this, but I suspect it is for Tohru’s benefit.”
“What do you mean, there is no rehearsal?” Yuki wondered.
“Isn’t this wedding some type of sacred ceremony? Aya told me that we would all be expected to participate in a ritual. Will we at least be told what our roles will be?” Haru inquired.
“You’ll be told what you need to know.” Shigure said vaguely.
“You’re hiding something.” Yuki said, knowingly. “Haven’t you attended one of these wedding in the past?”
“That’s right. You, Ha’ri and Aya were all at Akito’s parent’s wedding.” Haru agreed.
“Well, the truth is, I don’t really remember that wedding. I was really young, as you know.” Shigure said, telling a partial truth. “Anyway, the dinner party is tomorrow night. Everyone will be attending, even Rin and Kureno.”
“Rin will be there?” Haru asked happily. “I haven’t seen her in so long.”
“Rin?” Yuki whispered, and Shigure caught the flash of jealousy in Yuki’s eyes, but Haru missed it completely. Shigure decided that that was a shame, since Yuki had put Haru through hell. Shigure smiled roguishly as he blurted out. “Oh, that’s right. Haru, didn’t you and Rin have a little romance once?” Struck by the irritation in Yuki’s eyes, Shigure stopped. He backtracked, and tried to feign innocence. “or maybe not… no romance, nothing… never mind, not at all.”
“Yuki?” Haru wondered, examining his lovers eyes thoughtfully. Oh yes, Haru saw it this time, did he ever. “Yuki, you’re not…” Haru smiled. Yuki turned his eyes away, his face filling with beautiful red. “You are? Yuki, you’re jealous. I’m so happy.”
“You’re not supposed to be happy about it!” Yuki said in exasperation.
“But I am.” Haru laughed happily. “You’re afraid of losing me to Rin.”
“I am not.” Yuki insisted. “She can have you.”
“Liar, you love me.”
“I see my work is done here.” Shigure giggled to himself as he headed back to the warmth of the kotatsu. Meanwhile upstairs, Yuki was growing furious, and Haru was doing a happy dance. “Those two are just so cute. Perhaps, I should call Aya, I wonder what he’s up to?”
YOSHIYA *
“Are you feeling okay?” Yoshiya asked. She was pulling the zipper closed at the back of Tohru’s stunning black evening gown.
“Oh… Yes, I am fine. I’m sorry. I have a lot on my mind, I suppose.” Tohru explained, stepping away from Yoshi, and looking closely into the mirror, pretending to adjust her dress, which was actually perfect.
‘She’s Lying.’ Yoshi understood. The girl hadn’t been okay for weeks. ‘Who could blame her?’ Yoshi knew enough about the particulars of Akito’s curse to sympathize completely.
“Yoshi, how about you? How are things with Hatori?” Tohru attempted to change the subject, but immediately regretted doing so. Yoshi’s smile disappeared. She stepped away from Tohru, picking out a pair of black shoes from the closet.
“These will go nicely, don’t you think?” Yoshi suggested.
“I’m sorry, Yoshi. That was none of my business.” Tohru said, taking the shoes from Yoshi, and sitting at the edge of her chair, holding a shoe tightly in each hand. Of course, she would not put them on until she was downstairs, ready to venture out into the snow. Tonights dinner would be held at the Zodiac Ballroom.
“No.” Yoshi smiled. “It’s fine. I don’t mind talking about it. Hatori and I, Things didn’t work out between us.” Yoshiya explained. “To be honest, if Akito had not insisted on my attending tonight’s dinner, I would have preferred not to go.”
“Oh… Yoshi. I am so sorry. Of course, it must be uncomfortable.” Tohru apologized. “If you don’t want to go, I can ask Akito to…”
“No, really, please.” Yoshi interrupted. “I’ll be fine, and I bought this dress. It’s much too late to cancel. I don‘t mind.”
“You’re sure?” Tohru wondered as she stood up and took one last glance into the mirror.
“I am.”
“Well, then, I guess that we had better head downstairs. Akito and Hatori will be waiting.”
“Yes.” Yoshi agreed, trying not to bristle at the mention of a certain doctor’s name.
UO *
“You… um… look…” Kyo stuttered. He sat in the backseat of Shigure’s crowded car, peeking somewhat shyly at his dinner date. Uo sat with Hana and Shigure in the front seat. Squeezed into the back seat were Kyo, Momiji, Aya, Yuki and Haru. To Kyo’s humiliation, and Hana’s fascination, Yuki was practically sitting in Haru’s lap. The two girls were placed safely up front to avoid any accidental transformations.
“I look, what?” Uo wondered. Trying to act tough, and to not smile at Kyo’s endearing awkwardness.
“You…” Kyo started, and blushed furiously, leaning forward he whispered into her ear. “You look beautiful.”
“Excuse me, I am sorry, I didn’t quiet catch that. Could you repeat it?” Uo lied. She has heard perfectly well, but she wanted to hear it again.
“I said that you look beautiful.” Kyo repeated, even softer then before, since now everyone was looking at them.
“One more time.” Uo requested, and Kyo realized what she was up to.
“Damn it, woman. I said that you look beautiful. Okay? Now the whole damn car knows. Are you happy, now?” Kyo growled loudly, and sunk back into his seat in shame.
“Actually, Kyo, we all heard you the first time.” Shigure informed him.
“He’s such an idiot.” Yuki threw in his two cents.
“Shut up, rat boy. That’s my idiot you’re talking about.” Uo warned playfully, and Yuki backed down. Sighing, he cuddled quietly into Haru.
AKITO *
Akito watched as his wife - he already considered her as such - entered the room. She was late, which would make them late for their own dinner. Once, Akito realized, something as small as that would have sent him over the edge. Now he understood how petty such worries were. Tohru looked incredible, he admired, as he held out a thick black coat for her to slip into.
“You’re lovely.” He whispered into her ear. He brushed a soft kiss across her check, before turning his attention to Yoshi. “That is a beautiful dress, Yoshiya. It matches your eyes. Doesn’t she look wonderful, Hatori?”
Hatori kept silent, to Akito’s annoyance.
“Thank you, Master Akito.” Yoshi said uncomfortably.
“Please, Yoshiya, just Akito. There is no need for such formalities. I told you that we consider you a part of the family. Don’t we Hatori?”
“Yes, of course.” Hatori forced out, barely even allowing the pretty girl a glance. ‘What was his problem?’ Akito wondered. ‘Had something happened between those two? What a shame. Perhaps Hatori enjoyed being alone, after all.’
“Well, shall we go then?” Akito said, and lead the way out to the waiting car.
HARU *
‘Tohru looks beautiful.’ Haru realized unhappily. He was watching her as she entered the zodiac hall, upon Akito’s arm.
Akito removed her long black jacket, reviewing a stunning black satin evening gown. The gown had tiny, diamond laced, spaghetti straps, which accented Tohru’s pale skin. Her honey colored hair was fashioned into an intricate knot, held in place by a diamond hair piece in the shape of a dragonfly. Haru felt Yuki’s arm slip away from his own, and checked to see that Yuki was also noticing Tohru. Yuki’s violet eyes followed her every movement as she walked, escorted by Akito, towards them. Haru fought off growing feelings of overwhelming jealousy. The black part of him, which had gone missing, had instantly resurfaced in the company of his rival, and now it was begging to be set free upon the unsuspecting room.
“Yuki, Haru, I am so happy to see you both made it.” Akito welcomed them, keeping one arm wrapped protectively around his fiancées thin waist.
‘You fool, Yuki.’ Haru thought to himself. ‘Do you think that everyone is blind? Do you think we don’t see that you are practically drooling over her? If Akito kills you for it, you deserve to die.’
“Thank you, cousin Akito.” Haru said respectfully, and bowed slightly. “If you’ll excuse me.” Haru flashed Yuki a dirty look, before taking leave of them, to head towards the door. A gorgeous Rin, dressed like a classic goth princess, and a pretty Kagura, in fairy tale white, had both entered the room. A very nervous Ritsu trailed behind in their beautiful wake. Ritsu was dressed as a boy, in a nice black suit with not a hint of lace, Haru noticed, thankfully. Akito would have been displeased had Ritsu shown up in an evening gown like the girls.
“Rin.” Haru smiled sweetly. The dark haired beauty grinned back at him.
“Haru, I’ve missed you.” Rin told him, allowing him to take her hand and place a polite kiss upon it. Out of the corner of his eye, Haru noted that Yuki was watching them. In classic Black Haru style, he followed up the kiss by turning Rin’s hand over, and licking it from the center of her palm up to the tip of her index finger. His eyes locking sensuously upon Rin’s. Keeping her hand clutched tightly, he moved close to whisper in her ear.
“I’ve missed you too, Rin. Maybe after dinner we can hook up and relive old times.”
“My, aren’t we feeling rather black tonight?” Rin noticed, pulling her hand back, and wiping it off on the sleeve of Haru’s shirt. “Your boyfriend is heading this way, and he doesn’t look too happy.”
Of course, Haru realized, someone, probably Shigure, would have told her. Haru had just enough time to feel completely foolish, before Yuki was standing beside him.
RIN * (an: Forgive me if I’m blowing this)
“Rin.” Yuki greeted her coldly, not even bothering to hide the anger in his voice. “You’re looking very well. How have you been?” Without waiting for her to answer, Yuki grabbed Haru by the arm and pulled him outdoors to the balcony.
“Interesting?” Rin said to Kagura.
“That bastard.” Kagura said suddenly. “I can’t believe that he brought HER!” Rin followed Kagura’s eyes to where Kyo, Hana, Momiji and Uo, stood talking with Tohru.
“Which is she, Kagura? The blonde?”
“Uh, huh.” Kagura admitted, looking sadly at Kyo and Uo.
“Are they arguing?” As they watched, Uo smacked Kyo upside his head. He looked pissed off for a moment, but then he smiled at the pretty girl. ‘Poor Kagura, she’s doomed.’ Rin understood, and looked to her friend compassionately. ‘The cat was obviously in love.’
“That bitch!” Kagura boiled. Rin placed a calming hand upon her friends shoulder.
“Don’t. It’s not worth it, and making a scene will only upset Akito.”
“But… He’s mine.” Kagura insisted.
“Perhaps not, Kagura. It might be time for you to move on, and I think I have just the person.”
Rin smiled at her own brilliance. Grabbing Kagura by the hand, she headed for Ritsu who was presently playing the part of a wallflower. “Personally, I think an obedient monkey will make a much better pet then that silly kitty cat.”
Still staring after Kyo, Kagura followed her friend.
YUKI *
“What was that about, Haru?” Yuki asked bitterly. The two boys stood on the snowy patio. Since they had left their jackets inside, Yuki was freezing with only his present anger to keep him warm. He had caught every agonizing second of Haru’s little finger snack, and it had wounded him deeply.
“What?” Haru said innocently.
“Are you trying to make me jealous, or do you still have feelings for Rin?” Yuki wondered. His teeth chattered together, towards the end of his sentence, taking the edge off. Damn, it was too cold for this shit.
“Why? Did you get jealous?” Haru fished hopefully.
“No.” Yuki lied. “Of course not. If you want to be with Rin, go ahead. Don’t let me stop you.”
He turned his back to Haru, hugging his arms around himself, and shivering uncontrollably.
“I don’t.” Haru admitted. Stepping up behind Yuki, he wrapped him in his arms. “I’m sorry, Yuki. That was stupid of me. It’s just that, Yuki, it’s so obvious that you still have feelings for Tohru, maybe we should have waited.”
“That‘s not it.” Yuki insisted, turning in Haru’s arms, facing him. “I’m worried about her. I’ve told you that. It’s this wedding. It’s Akito. I can’t help it. I’m not in love with her, but she’s my friend, I am concerned for her. Haru, I need you to understand this. Please, promise me you won’t act like this anymore. I can’t stand it. It hurts.”
“I hurt you?” Haru realized. That was, of course, what he had been intending to do, but now it seemed like a stupid idea. He should protect Yuki, not hurt him. “I’m sorry. I’ll try, Yuki. I’m really sorry.”
“It’s okay.” Yuki told him, cuddling closer into Haru’s warmth. Looking over Haru’s shoulder, through the glass doors, into the hall, Yuki saw that Rin was watching them. The witch was actually smirking at him. Yuki looked away quickly. He placed his cold lips to Haru’s warm ones.
“I love you.” Yuki whispered, and his heart suddenly flooded with passion, the residual effect of jealousy. The kiss that ensued was staggering. The snow, the zodiac hall, their family, it all vanished. Yuki dissolved into Haru’s soft lips.
RIN *
Rin smiled softly to herself, watching the two boys kiss. ‘It is as it should be.’ She realized. Haru had been in love with Yuki forever. It was the real reason that she had broken up with him, after all. She adored Haru. Even with his flaws, or perhaps, because of them, he was perfection. She was so pleased that Yuki finally got it. They belonged together. This was fate.
“No! Shit!” Shigure said suddenly, and Rin popped out of her daydream. “Not here, Yuki. Are you insane?” Shigure had just spotted the kissing cousins upon the balcony. Unluckily, Akito had spotted them first. The head of the family was heading for the balcony. He did not look pleased.
“This could be bad.” Ritsu noticed. “Poor Yuki.”
“It will be fine.” Tohru assured them, as she quickly passed, and headed off Akito, before he could open the door and interrupt the two lovers.
AKITO *
“But do they have to do it here?” Akito growled at Tohru. He glanced out the window to where his two cousins were practically having sex on the balcony of the zodiac hall. “It’s disrespectful. It must stop, at once.” His hand went for the door, but Tohru grabbed it back, holding it tightly in hers.
“They’re in love, Akito.” Tohru soothed, smiling up at him, begging him to leave them be. “You understand it don’t you? Love makes you do foolish things.”
Akito got it, as always his wife made perfect sense. After all, hadn’t love made him do something foolish? Something dishonorable. Yes, love was powerful that way. Damn it, why was she always so right?
Nodding, Akito turned away from the door. “Can’t we at least tell them to get a room?” He wondered, looking back as Tohru pulled him away.
“Behave.” She laughed. “Dinner is about to be served, and I’m hungry.”
AKITO * (Two hours later)
“This is bullshit.” Uo complained, and Hana nodded in agreement. “I demand an explanation.”
Akito’s hand went to his head, massaging at the headache that was slowly forming. ‘Too many people,’ he thought, feeling slightly nauseous. ‘too much excitement.’ This dinner was a bad idea, but Tohru had wanted it. She had insisted on it, in fact. Tohru’s blonde friend was standing at the table, pointing an accusing finger at Hatori. Akito was surprised, this Uo was actually feistier than Tohru herself. Kyo would have his hands full with her.
“What do you mean? We have to wait outside during the wedding ceremony? The entire ceremony?” Kyo yelled, adding to the noise.
“Quiet down, Lucky Kyo. You’re upsetting, Akito.” Aya insisted, and quieted himself, when Akito flashed him a look of annoyance.
“Kyo, it is the tradition. You understand that we have to honor it. The only people allowed in the sacred shrine are the members of the zodiac, the council members, and the bride.”
“Isn’t Kyo a member of the zodiac?” Uo asked.
“He’s not.” Hana informed her. “He’s the cat.”
“The cat isn’t really a part of the zodiac. He’s special.” Momiji explained gently.
“Special?” Yuki laughed sarcastically. “That’s one way to put it?”
“Well, then I’m not going at all.” Kyo said bitterly. Standing up, he grabbed Uo’s hand, preparing to make a dramatic exit.
“Kyo.” Tohru’s voice was affectionate and soothing, Kyo turned to her. “I’m sorry Kyo. I’m so sorry that you, and Uo, and Hana, are not allowed inside of the shrine. I understand if you don’t want to come to our wedding. I don’t blame you, but I hope that you will change your mind. Akito and I really want you to be there. Right Akito?” All eyes turned to the head of the family. Akito’s eyes went wide. Did she really expect him to tell the cat that he wanted him at the wedding?
Across the table, the rat was actually smirking at him, Akito noticed, and a dark swirling cloud enveloped his heart. ‘I’ll kill them, all of them, the cat, the rat, and that stupid cow.’
“Akito?” Her soothing voice penetrated his mind. “Are you feeling all right?” Akito looked up at her. She stood in front of him, looking at him with those big concerned eyes. He glanced around the table. Everyone was staring at him, and the look in their eyes, he knew that look, because it was the same as what he saw in her eyes. Could it be possible? Were they actually worried for him? Tohru placed her hand upon his forehead, and then upon his cheek. The churning darkness evaporated instantly at her touch.
“You’re warm. Hatori, we need to get him home.”
“Wait.” Akito commanded. “I need a moment. Hatori, Tohru, please sit.”
Hatori and Tohru returned to their seats.
“Kyo, Uo, Hana. Tohru and I would like it very much if you would come to our wedding. If it was left up to me, I would invite you inside, regrettably it is not in my control. However, it would mean so much to Tohru, to myself, if you would all attend.”
“Akito?” Kyo marveled, was this for real? Could it be possible? Akito wanted him at the wedding?
“So, you’ll come?” Akito asked hopefully.
“Yes, Akito.” Kyo answered, unable to hide the tiniest smile. He wasn’t a zodiac family member yet, but wasn’t this a first step? “I will be happy to attend. Uo and Hana, will be there too.” He added. The two girls nodded in confused agreement.
“Well.” Akito smiled. “Good then. Hatori, Tohru, I would like to go home now, if that is okay.”
“Yes.” Hatori agreed and rushed to Akito’s side. Shaking visibly, Akito stood. He rested for a moment against Hatori, feeling embarrassed that he was so obviously weak. He was surprised to find Kyo suddenly beside him as well. Kyo offered up his shoulder.
“May I help too, Akito?” Kyo asked shyly. Smiling softly, Akito nodded. Supported between Kyo, and Hatori, Akito left the zodiac hall.
TOHRU * (Wedding Day - about time, don’t you think?)
“You can’t come in Akito.” Tohru giggled as she admired the wedding kimono that Aya and Yoshi were holding up before her.
“Yes.” Aya agreed. “It is bad luck to see the bride before the wedding.”
The door to Tohru’s room slid open, and Akito walked in.
“Aya, Tohru is marrying a Sohma, worse then that she’s marrying me. Her luck can’t possibly get any worse.” Akito told him honestly. “Can you two excuse us for a moment. I would like to speak with my wife.”
“Yes, of course.” Aya and Yoshi agreed, hurrying out of the room.
“Akito?” Tohru wondered, smiling up at him cheerfully.
“I wanted to talk with you. Sit down Tohru.” He requested. She sat on the edge of her bed, and Akito took a seat next to her. He took her hand in his.
“Is something the matter?” She asked. Her smile fading quickly into worry. “Are you all right? You’re not feeling ill?”
“I am fine.” He informed her. “I just wanted to tell you something.”
“Okay?” She waited while he found his words.
“Tohru, today, the ceremony, it will not be easy.” He admitted. “It will not be… normal.”
“I know.” She told him. “Hatori already told me that.”
“Damn him, can he let me do nothing myself?” Akito grumbled. “Well, then, what did that idiot doctor tell you?”
“He didn’t exactly go into detail. He just warned me that I should be prepared for anything. Akito, can you tell me what to expect?”
“No. To be honest, I am not even sure myself.” Akito said honestly. “From what I understand, once we enter the shrine our um… natural instincts will take over. I have no idea what that means. Tohru, I’m just worried about you.”
“I see. Your natural instincts.” Tohru said quietly. A million visions were blurring through her mind, and none of them were very pretty. She pictured Kyo on the night that he transformed into the beast. She remembered Black Haru the day at the high school, and she recalled the darkness of Akito’s special room. She was afraid, and even disappointed. Deep down, Tohru wanted what all girls wanted, a nice normal wedding, but she had made her decision. Tohru was marrying into the Sohma family, things would probably never be normal again. Whatever the ceremony would bring about, she was ready. She would sacrifice anything for Akito, and for his family.
“Tohru, do you want to back out? You look so very afraid?” Akito noticed miserably.
“No.” Tohru told him. “I am afraid, but I will be okay. Akito, you and this family, you’re my life now. Whatever comes, I can handle it.”
Akito kissed her softly, and he stood.
“Now, get out of here and send Aya and Yoshi back. I have a wedding to get ready for, and my fiancé hates it when people are late.”
“Certainly, my love.” Akito agreed.
KYO *
Kyo, Uo, Hana, Kazuma and Yoshiya stood upon the snowy walk leading to the zodiac shrine. Like the other invited, but uninvited, family members, their heads were bowed. The zodiac procession had begun.
“Who are they?” Uo whispered, too loudly. The people in question are the four strangers, dressed in extravagant Kimonos, that surround the stunningly beautiful bride. Two walk in front of her, and two walk behind. Tohru faces forward, hiding her fear behind a counterfeit smile.
“Shhh… Don’t talk, it’s disrespectful.” Hana informed her, and Kyo wondered how she knew that.
“But I want to know, who are they?” Uo insisted even louder.
“They are the council of the elders.” Kyo whispered back.
“But they are all women!” Uo practically screamed. Kyo nearly had a heart attack as eight pairs of cold eyes turned upon them.
“They are not all women. That one in the back is a guy.” Hana noticed, an Uo looked up to see that her friend was correct. He was a guy and he was a hottie.
“Wow, he’s so young, and he’s really handsome.” Uo noticed to Kyo’s shame. The young man in question. A pretty boy, all of twenty two, graced Hana and Uo with a tiny smile, before turning his face back towards the shrine that he was now about to enter.
“They are Tuuli, Hikari, Shiara, and Frei.” Kazuma explained, under his breath, as the elders entered the shrine. At the end of the walkway Akito had stepped forward. The head of the family, the groom, lead the procession of the zodiac. “Hatori is the other council member. He presently serves in Yuki’s place.” Kyo grimaced, but since he was still bowing, no one noticed. “Three are women, yes. The seat of an elder is inherited, much as the curse is. It does not discriminate of sex.”
Kazuma quieted as Akito was now about to pass. Akito slowed in front of Kyo, and then stopped completely as he made a decision. Reaching down he touched Kyo gently upon one shoulder. “Thank you for coming, Kyo.” He said softly, causing the cat to blush with a mixture of pride and embarrassment. For the head of the family to single someone out this way was an honor. That Akito chose to single out the cat was nothing short of a miracle. Beside him, Kazuma, his father, felt tears of pride threatening.
“Thank you, Akito.” Kyo said softly.
Akito continued toward the shrine.
YUKI *
Yuki’s heart was filled with foreboding as he stepped through the heavy ivory doors of the zodiac shrine.
‘This place it’s wrong. Something about it, is very wrong.’ The thought assaulted his brain, a distant shadow that surrounded him with dread. He halted, momentarily, as he tried to regain his bearings. ‘I’ve visited this place. It’s so familiar, why?’ Haru gently nudged him, he was holding up the procession. Yuki continued reluctantly down the long wooden aisle leading to the alters.
Glancing forward, behind the alters, his eyes lit upon the statue. Once again he faltered.
“Those dreams.” Yuki whispered, as a shiver flowed through his heart. His violet eyes grew big, shaky. He considered turning back, running actually, bolting out of the shrine. At that moment he desired only escape.
The statue was painfully familiar. It was part of a recurring nightmare, one he had so often dreamt while locked inside of Akito’s special room. In his nightmare the statue was always alive, chasing him, trying to draw him back, trying to devour him. This sculpture, which is made of porcelain, is the form of the beast. It resembles Kyo’s dark form, only Kyo never looked that way, not ever. The sculptures eyes are made of dark cold marble, and these are familiar too, because they are Akito’s eyes. From the body of the beast twelve souls are trying to escape, the twelve souls of the zodiac. The beast is reaching with blood red claws, he is trying to pull them back.
He was remembering now, as he stumbled closer. Everything was coming back to him, only gradually, like a Chinese water torture, drip drip drip, the memories crept towards him. They have been locked inside these walls, memories that are over a thousand years old. They are calling to him, whispering his name.
Yuki pulled his eyes away from the statue. He didn’t want to know. He didn’t want to remember, because if he remembered that meant that the others might remember. He is certain that the others will hate him. They will hate him because he was the reason, he was the one that brought the curse upon the family.
He continued slowly, moving unconsciously, until he found the spot at the alter where he strangely knew that he belonged. His place was next to the bride. It was part of the rat’s punishment that he would assist the groom. Tohru stared up at him, her eyes were empty. Like the rest of them, she was under a trance, she was simply playing a required part. On her other side stood Akito, his eyes glowing darkly. Their was no sign of the gracious dinner host, Yuki noticed wretchedly. Those black eyes resembled the statue. They were dark and cold and mercilessly dangerous.
The elders were seated upon four black marble thrones, two to the right, two to the left. The women were all pretty, and young, it felt ironic that the elders were each so young. Older than twenty as was required, but none were older than twenty eight, and all four had splendid red hair.
Frei was also pretty, Yuki noticed. A boy with flowing red hair and pale green eyes. Presently, those eyes were locked upon Haru. Turning his head, Yuki discovered that Haru was gazing back at the elder. Jealousy nipped at Yuki’s stomach. His lovers eyes were filled with dark lust. Yuki fought his nature. He wanted to slap Haru, to shake him. He wanted to remind the cow that he was taken, but this was not the place for such a scene. The rat pushed away his jealousy, but it didn’t want to go.
Reality called Yuki back. Hatori was standing in front of him, a silver box held open in the palm of his hand. Yuki grew immediately calm as he looked upon the glorious ring. Reaching his thin fingers into the small box Yuki plucks the ring from it’s jeweled home. In that moment Yuki has remembered everything, the rat has found his place.
THE BEAST *
‘It was the rat’s fault that they were all cursed.’ Akito watched Yuki, his dark anger was whispering to him, it was telling him secrets, it was reliving the past.
Once they lived in peace. Thirteen angels, with thirteen souls, they were joined together as one perfect family. They lived in paradise under a loving, but possessive god, their master was the beast. The cat was the master’s favorite, his lover, his soul mate. The rat was the cats confidant, his most trusted ally, his friend.
Of all of the angels the rat was the most adored. His lover was the cow, however the rat was desired by all thirteen of the angels. The rat was charming, he was lovely, and he was very cunning. The truth was that the rat wasn’t really good, he was only pretending to be good. The rat wanted only to be loved, and the rat possessed a bitterly jealous heart. He was jealous of the cat, because he wanted to be the favorite of their master, and so the rat plotted to win the heart of their lord.
In addition to the thirteen angels, four others existed in paradise. The four elders, the servants of the beast. It was through the elders that the rat learned about the humans. The humans were souls who inhabited a place known as earth. He also learned of the one thing that was most coveted by their master. A piece of precious metal, spun by human hands, it was called a ring, and the master desired it.
With this knowledge in hand, the rat called together eleven of the angels, he excluded the cat.
“I want to give our master a gift, but I require your assistance.” The rat beseeched the angels. “I need to visit this place called earth.”
“A present for the master? A wonderful idea.” All of the angels agreed. They each wanted to please the master, but they also wanted to please the rat, this seemed a way that they could accomplish both.
“I will need you,” The rat pointed to the dragon. “to carry me. My lovely dragon, with your wings we can travel far and quickly. We can find the ring maker, and return within a week. The master need not know that we are gone.”
“I would be honored.” The dragon proudly agreed.
“I will bring you,” The rat told the cow. “along as my navigator.” Since the rat was in love, he was blind to the cows inadequacies. The rat had heard rumors that one of the elders desired the cow. He would not risk leaving his lover behind. The rat was, before all else, fatally jealous.
“I will count on the rest of you to conceal our absence from our master.” The rat said with a beguiling smile. “Whatever you do, do not tell the cat. He has a big mouth, and he will ruin the masters surprise.”
The three set off the next morning, but as was to be expected, the cow’s sense of direction got them immediately lost. It took two weeks for them to find the earth, and another three days for them to find a ring makers shop. The shop they found was located in the forests of Japan, and was owned by a family named Sohma. The ring maker was skillful. Both the ring, as well as it’s jeweled container were forged in less then two days.
Meanwhile, back in paradise their absence was discovered on the thirteenth day. It was the boar who finally betrayed the rat. She told the cat, and the cat told the beast. The beast was angry. How dare his angels leave paradise without his permission. The beast sent the cat down to earth, riding upon a pale white dove, to retrieve his wayward souls.
The ring maker had a daughter, and she was uncommonly beautiful. Her hair was the color of the sunrise, her eyes like a pale blue day. She was the first human the cat came upon, and he fell instantly and helplessly in love. The cat vowed to make the girl his wife. He returned to paradise to seek his masters blessing. The cat wanted to marry the girl, and he required a human form.
The master was furious, overcome with jealousy, anger, and grief. He had been betrayed by all that he loved. The elders had told his secrets to the rat. The rat, the cow, and the dragon, had left paradise without permission. The other angels had covered it up. For this they would all pay, they would be cursed. The cat, however, deserved to be doubly cursed, because his heart had been unfaithful, as well as his soul.
The spell was cast, underneath a blood red moon, upon the night of the new year. Their master took his own life, in order to place his soul, his bitter curse, into the heart of the ring. The ring was left, along with instructions, in the hands of the four elders. All of the angels were ordered to attend the wedding of the cat. The ring was to be a present to the bride from her groom.
When the cat placed the ring upon the finger of his bride, her hand bled, and the curse was set into motion. As per the instructions, her blood was captured within a golden urn and each of the thirteen angels drank of it, thus obtaining a cursed humanity. The angels were banished from paradise to earth. In order to assure that the angels would not find peace in the arms of the humans their master placed a provision. If ever they were hugged by a member of opposite sex they would transform back into their original forms.
The cats punishment was times two, his entire existence was cursed. One day before the birth of his son, the cat died, and his child was born with duel souls. It was their master’s malicious wish that his soul would live forever. This would allow him to torment and control his angels into eternity. The cat himself was reborn as the family outcast, one who possessed three forms, that of the beast, that of the cat, and that of the human. This curse was named for the bride. The Sohma family curse. The elders were sent to earth to live as humans and to protect the curse.
AKITO *
Somewhere faraway, his friend, the doctor cleared his throat. Akito swam for the surface, away from the memories that threatened to consume him. He fought his way up through the shroud of darkness that was as thick as the foulest swamp. He looked across the shrine to Hatori, appreciatively, once again the dragon had rescued him.
‘That’s right, I’m getting married.’ Akito glanced upon his bride. ‘Why did she look so… missing? Where was Tohru? What was she thinking? Was she afraid?’ The rat stepped forward. ‘The damn rat… no, it was just Yuki, his cousin, and he was smiling at him. The rat seemed happy, why would that be?’ Akito took the ring from Yuki’s fingers. The cold steel felt heavy, like an anchor, the families anchor. Akito stared around the room, his eyes darting along, counting each of his cousins. Only twelve, because the thirteenth angel was exiled from the shrine. It was as it should be, or was it?
“Akito?” Tohru whispered, she was holding out her hand like a good little bride, she was waiting. Upon her finger a small diamond glittered. She still wore the other ring. He had forgotten to remove it, before the ceremony, and now found he didn’t want to. Fighting to stay on top, to keep his darkness locked away, Akito took Tohru’s hand into his own. “I’m so sorry, Tohru.” He whispered, and slid the ring upon her precious finger, hearing a faint click as platinum kissed white gold. He waited, holding her hand tightly within his grasp. They all waited, silently dreading what would happen next.
Nothing happened.
‘I should have removed the other ring.’ Akito decided, feeling foolish. He placed his fingers upon the ring, intending to remove it, to start over.
“Akito… Leave it Akito…” The woman’s voice was gentle, and unexpected. A loving voice that Akito didn’t know, and yet it somehow seemed familiar. The ring pulled away from his fingers, it glowed bright white, burning the room with it radiance.
“That isn’t right.” Hikari stated. “Something’s wrong.”
Akito felt dizzy, inside him a war was brewing. Dark and light colliding. The beast was angry. ‘What were they trying to pull?’
The glow faded, leaving only one ring upon Tohru’s finger, the platinum one, the other had disappeared.
“What?” Akito wondered, and now he was afraid. He grasped the ring, with shaky fingers. He tugged at it, but it held steadfast, this ring had found it’s home. “Take care of my daughter, Akito.” The voice whispered again. “Hug my grandchildren for me.”
TOHRU *
Her husband smiled at her, and for a moment she was relieved, because she thought it was over, but of course, it wasn’t.
“She’s impure.” Shiara cried loudly. Standing she heading towards them, a look of fury creasing her lovely brow. Akito moved his hand over the ring, wanting to hide the evidence, wanting to protect his wife..
“She’s already with child.” Frei informed them calmly.
“Tohru?” Akito questioned, was it true? Tohru could hear the others reacting as well. Momiji could barely control his excitement, and Kisa was whispering too loud. This was bad.
“I’m sorry, Akito.” Tohru mumbled, and then stepped back, because Hikari was standing behind Akito, and Tohru was frightened of this particular elder. She was certain that Hikari didn’t like her at all.
“What evil plot is this?” Hikari accused. “Did you hope to save yourself, Akito?”
“Quiet down, my sister.” Frei requested. “I do not believe this was what Akito intended. It is not too late, this can still be repaired.”
“Frei’s right. Take the ring from her, Akito.” Shiara demanded. “We cannot approve of this marriage. Hatori you will need to arrange for another, immediately.”
“Akito? I…” Tohru’s heart was breaking. She pulled her hand from his, trying to remove the ring herself. “I’m so sorry. I’ll give you back the ring. I didn’t mean for this to happen.”
“Stop it Tohru.” Akito demanded. “That isn’t the ring.” He pulled her into his arms, wrapping her tightly, wanting to protect her, as well as his child, from this madness. “The ring is gone.” He informed the room.
“Gone?” Tuuli questioned. “What do you mean, gone?”
“I mean it’s gone, it’s disappeared. See for yourself?” He held Tohru’s hand up, allowing the elders to see the simple diamond band. “I don’t know why, but the ring is gone. Tohru is my wife, she is carrying my child, and I will not allow anyone to take that from me. I will not marry another. I am sorry, but I cannot.”
“Do you know what this means?” Hakari asked him. “You’re sacrificing your cousins.”
“You understand that they may die?” Shiara added.
“NO!” Torhu shouted. “I will not let them die! Akito, we can’t.”
“It is okay, Tohru.” Hatori spoke up. “The ring is gone now. Without the ring, there can be no ceremony. For better or worse, It has been decided.”
“Hatori, there must be a way to fix this.” Tohru determined, and turned to Tuuli, the only elder that did not frighten her. “Isn’t there something that we can do?”
The elder said nothing, only looked upon her in pity.
“Well, I for one, know what we can do.” Aya piped up. He was personally tired of all this talk of doom and gloom. If he was going to go, he was going in style. “We can have that wedding reception. Let’s get out of this nasty tomb.”
“That sound’s pretty good to me.” Haru agreed.
“Well, okay then.” Shigure said, and turned to the elders. “Is that alright with you? I mean your invited too, of course.”
“So be it.” Frei settled it. “We will leave the rest to fate.”
HARU *
Haru stood at the side of the dance floor, watching his cousins. ‘What a weird family we are.’ He thought to himself, watching as Shigure dipped Aya, and Hiro kissed Kisa. Kyo was slow dancing with Uo, but at arms length, which looked pretty dorky. Off to the right Kagura sat with Ritsu, and Rin. They looked like they were planning something. ‘I bet their victim will be Kyo.’ He giggled quietly.
“What’s so funny.” Yuki asked, stepping up beside him and handing him a glass of wine.
“Nothing.” Haru told him. “I was just thinking.”
“Haru, are you worried? I mean about dying… are you afraid.”
“No, Yuki. Not really. I just figure that if I do, I probably deserve it.” Haru admitted. “I was the one who got us lost, remember? A thousand years, it’s a long time. Perhaps if we die, the curse might end. That would be a good thing, right?”
“But what if it doesn’t? What if we just die, and the curse continues.” Yuki wondered.
“Anything’s possible, I suppose.” Haru agreed. He gazed across the dance floor to where Tohru and Akito were talking to Hana and Hatori. Akito had one arm wrapped around Tohru, his hand resting protectively upon her stomach, sheltering his child. “I do think that Akito and Tohru deserve to be happy. A father should be allowed to hold his child, for that alone I would give up my life.”
Yuki said nothing for awhile, he just watched Haru as he watched the others. Finally, he made a decision. “Haru. I’d like to go home now. Do you mind if we leave?”
“Already?” Haru wondered.
“Yes, it’s cold out, but I’d like to walk. I feel like it actually, and if it‘s alright with you, I would like to stay at your place tonight. It’s closer. In fact, I’ve been thinking, perhaps we should move in together, would you like that? Would it be okay?”
“Are you serious?” Haru said, his face beaming with joy. “I would love that.”
“Good.” Yuki smiled. “Now, let’s go home.”
“Okay, let’s say goodbye to everyone then.”
“Let’s not.” Yuki argued. “I really just want to get out of here. I want to be alone, with you.”
“Okay then. Wait here I will get our coats, and we can go.”
“Thanks Haru.” Yuki said, and took a seat to wait for his lover to return. A thousand years was indeed along time, and the rat was feeling suddenly very tired.
*******************
Okay, well, it appears that I will have to write the epilogue, so we are not quite finished.. I will try to get it up soon as possible.
Meanwhile… um… I am almost afraid to ask, but let me know what you think… and I’ll see you soon.
Hello, my friends. This chapter took much longer then I expected. My grown up world has been grueling, since at work our busiest season starts at the first of the year, and will last until summer… depression as I foresee my stressful future… it has been harder for me to find the time to write, but I intend on continuing to write…. Because it makes me happy!
It was recently pointed out that I use a lot of commas, and not always appropriately either… it is too true… hang my head in shame. I’m sorry… I am, after all, comma girl… I know that I warned you all about this. Really though, this is more due to my crummy proofing skills. I do not use a beta reader… I am self sufficient… but I am always time challenged. When I write, everything pretty much flows out of me, and I try not to think about my grammar during this process. I go back and fix things around the third re-write, but I don’t always catch my boo boos until later on, after I have posted. So… I am afraid you will have to put up with an occasional grammar flaw or five or six or more… but I do appreciate your letting me know. I will try to do better, and I will probably fail. Sorry.
On another note, I would like to thank everyone, again, for reading, and also for your constant reviews and support. Today’s special thank you goes out to Bookwormrose296. This is because, pretty much, every time I post a new chapter Bookwormrose296 is the first person to send a supportive review. It is amazing, I feel so lucky to have such kind readers.
Also, I have to tell you that quite a while back Addy-chan made a suggestion, and it took me a while, but I have decided to use it, sort of. Thank you Addy-chan. Now a warning to those who are faithful to the manga, as opposed to the anime. This chapter includes numerous cameo appearances. I have decided to include Rin and Kureno (though Kureno gets very little playtime), because I felt that all of the zodiac members should attend the wedding. However, I am still waiting for Animenation to get me my import copies of the manga, and even then it will take me forever to translate, so I did research on Rin (found very little on Kureno) and hope that she isn’t too OOC, but I am sure that she will be, I’m sorry. Also three people who have been exceptionally kind to me, and whom I consider friends, will either love me, or hate me for this chapter. I won’t say why, but they will know when they see it. Big hugs, in advance, to my three favorite red heads.
Okay, now read, enjoy… review… thanks.
Sleepless in Sohma House
PART TWENTY SIX - THE WEDDING
TOHRU *
Snow was falling over Sohma compound, big cotton candy drifts of white ice, fresh and pure as Tohru Honda’s heart once was. Standing in her bedroom, her school uniform grasped loosely in her shaky hands, she found herself holding back tears.
“Are you disappointed in me, Mom?” She asked the empty room, before dropping down on the edge of her bed to stare out of the large picture window into her garden of snow.
“Tohru…” The gentle whisper tugged at the corner of her mind. “Tohru, it’s all right. You must know that you have never disappointed me. You were only doing as I have asked. You were only being yourself.”
“Mom…” Tohru cried, her eyes flowing over wetly. “Mom, I’m so tired. I love Akito so much, mom. I love this family so much. It’s just too hard. This hurts too much.”
“The Sohma’s are precious jewels. Their value is determined by those who love them. Stop crying now. You are no longer a child. It is time for you to act as a woman. You have responsibilities.”
“You’re right!” Tohru stated loudly, jumping up from her bed to stand tall and proud, her school uniform clutched tightly in one hand. “I have no time to be crying. I must be strong.” Loosening the tie on her robe, she let it drop to the floor, and slipped into a pair of white lace panties.
“Tohru?” Akito’s voice was followed by a quick knock, before the door slid open, and he entered. “Morning, love.” He’s said warmly, smiling as he took in her nearly naked form.
“Akito!” Tohru stammered nervously, quickly attempting to step into her skirt, but catching it around her ankles, and falling instead.
“Careful.” He laughed, crossing the room to help her back to her feet. He then wrapped one arm around her shoulders, while he ran a finger mischievously along the curve of her waist. “You do realize that I have seen this already?” He teased her, and placed a kiss on the tip of her nose.
“Akito.” Tohru blushed. “I’m sorry… Um… you’re right. Last night, we… and… I am being childish.”
“No.” He countered. “You are not childish. It is normal that you would still feel bashful. I shouldn’t tease you, but you were so cute that I couldn‘t help myself. I see that you’re on your way to school, isn’t it a bit late?”
“Yes. I am really late, and I have already missed my test completely. This is so bad. I’ve fallen behind. At this rate, I will never graduate.”
“That’s my fault, isn’t it.” Akito acknowledge.
“No… that’s not what I meant. It isn’t you… I mean, it’s my own fault. I haven’t been studying very hard. Besides, I have such a hard time with math. I’m stupid with numbers. Yuki used to tutor me, but now he can’t, and…”
“Why?” Akito wondered. “Why can’t Yuki tutor you?”
Tohru looked up at him. Hello, wasn’t it obvious? Akito’s dark side was dangerously jealous of Yuki. On top of that, Yuki still did not completely accept that Tohru was going to marry Akito. Yuki didn’t actually say this, but on the few times that they had spoken, at school, Yuki had seemed distant and uncomfortable. If the subject of the wedding came up, it was like a signal for the silver haired boy to quickly make an excuse and exit.
“It’s fine with me if Yuki tutors you. Tell him that I have requested that he do so.” Akito suggested.
“No… No, I couldn’t do that.” Tohru said honestly, and pictured Yuki’s reaction. In Akito’s eyes it was a request, but to Yuki it would feel like an order.
“Well, then, suit yourself. Get dressed, and I will have the car readied. I will drive you to school this morning, it is much too cold out for you to walk.”
“Thank you.” Tohru mumbled, waiting until he had stepped from the room to finish getting dressed.
SHIGURE * (Two weeks later)
Shigure was sitting at the kotatsu, staring at the dinner invitation, when the door slid open. The wind blew fiercely through the living room, carrying with it a burst of chilly snow, and two wet boys. Yuki and Haru were laughing cheerfully, their hands full of mushy snowballs. Shigure barely had time to duck, before he was bombarded.
“Now, now, you two. Aren’t you a little old for snowball fights?” Shigure teased, pretending he was not completely happy to see them behaving in such an adorable manner. It was amazing actually, to see Yuki laughing. It was something Shigure had once deemed impossible. Haru’s love, his unconditional acceptance, and unwavering devotion, had broken Yuki free from his melancholy shell. At the same time, Yuki had tamed Haru. His love seemed to have chased Black Haru indefinitely away, or perhaps, Shigure speculated naughtily, Black Haru only showed himself in the bedroom. ‘I wouldn’t mind being a fly on the wall for that show.’ Shigure giggled impishly.
“We’re Sorry, Shigure. You are right.” Haru apologized, but when Shigure raised himself from behind the table, thinking himself safe, he got whacked in the forehead, with Haru’s last snowball.
“You’re going down!” Shigure threatened, and turned to search for ammunition. He found only shushed ice. “Well, later, you’re going down.” The boys were already racing upstairs, out of harms way, when Shigure remembered that he needed to speak with them.
“Yuki, Haru, hold up a moment.” He said, standing and heading up the stairs after them, still holding the invitation in his hand.
“Yes?” Both boys asked together.
Shigure held out the invitation to Yuki.
“It’s from Akito. It appears that he is having a pre-wedding dinner. All of the members of the zodiac have been asked to attend. He expects the two of you, as well.”
“Is it like a rehearsal dinner, or something?” Haru wondered.
“Not exactly. Akito’s wedding will not be rehearsed. A pre-wedding dinner is not the norm. I do not know why Akito has planned this, but I suspect it is for Tohru’s benefit.”
“What do you mean, there is no rehearsal?” Yuki wondered.
“Isn’t this wedding some type of sacred ceremony? Aya told me that we would all be expected to participate in a ritual. Will we at least be told what our roles will be?” Haru inquired.
“You’ll be told what you need to know.” Shigure said vaguely.
“You’re hiding something.” Yuki said, knowingly. “Haven’t you attended one of these wedding in the past?”
“That’s right. You, Ha’ri and Aya were all at Akito’s parent’s wedding.” Haru agreed.
“Well, the truth is, I don’t really remember that wedding. I was really young, as you know.” Shigure said, telling a partial truth. “Anyway, the dinner party is tomorrow night. Everyone will be attending, even Rin and Kureno.”
“Rin will be there?” Haru asked happily. “I haven’t seen her in so long.”
“Rin?” Yuki whispered, and Shigure caught the flash of jealousy in Yuki’s eyes, but Haru missed it completely. Shigure decided that that was a shame, since Yuki had put Haru through hell. Shigure smiled roguishly as he blurted out. “Oh, that’s right. Haru, didn’t you and Rin have a little romance once?” Struck by the irritation in Yuki’s eyes, Shigure stopped. He backtracked, and tried to feign innocence. “or maybe not… no romance, nothing… never mind, not at all.”
“Yuki?” Haru wondered, examining his lovers eyes thoughtfully. Oh yes, Haru saw it this time, did he ever. “Yuki, you’re not…” Haru smiled. Yuki turned his eyes away, his face filling with beautiful red. “You are? Yuki, you’re jealous. I’m so happy.”
“You’re not supposed to be happy about it!” Yuki said in exasperation.
“But I am.” Haru laughed happily. “You’re afraid of losing me to Rin.”
“I am not.” Yuki insisted. “She can have you.”
“Liar, you love me.”
“I see my work is done here.” Shigure giggled to himself as he headed back to the warmth of the kotatsu. Meanwhile upstairs, Yuki was growing furious, and Haru was doing a happy dance. “Those two are just so cute. Perhaps, I should call Aya, I wonder what he’s up to?”
YOSHIYA *
“Are you feeling okay?” Yoshiya asked. She was pulling the zipper closed at the back of Tohru’s stunning black evening gown.
“Oh… Yes, I am fine. I’m sorry. I have a lot on my mind, I suppose.” Tohru explained, stepping away from Yoshi, and looking closely into the mirror, pretending to adjust her dress, which was actually perfect.
‘She’s Lying.’ Yoshi understood. The girl hadn’t been okay for weeks. ‘Who could blame her?’ Yoshi knew enough about the particulars of Akito’s curse to sympathize completely.
“Yoshi, how about you? How are things with Hatori?” Tohru attempted to change the subject, but immediately regretted doing so. Yoshi’s smile disappeared. She stepped away from Tohru, picking out a pair of black shoes from the closet.
“These will go nicely, don’t you think?” Yoshi suggested.
“I’m sorry, Yoshi. That was none of my business.” Tohru said, taking the shoes from Yoshi, and sitting at the edge of her chair, holding a shoe tightly in each hand. Of course, she would not put them on until she was downstairs, ready to venture out into the snow. Tonights dinner would be held at the Zodiac Ballroom.
“No.” Yoshi smiled. “It’s fine. I don’t mind talking about it. Hatori and I, Things didn’t work out between us.” Yoshiya explained. “To be honest, if Akito had not insisted on my attending tonight’s dinner, I would have preferred not to go.”
“Oh… Yoshi. I am so sorry. Of course, it must be uncomfortable.” Tohru apologized. “If you don’t want to go, I can ask Akito to…”
“No, really, please.” Yoshi interrupted. “I’ll be fine, and I bought this dress. It’s much too late to cancel. I don‘t mind.”
“You’re sure?” Tohru wondered as she stood up and took one last glance into the mirror.
“I am.”
“Well, then, I guess that we had better head downstairs. Akito and Hatori will be waiting.”
“Yes.” Yoshi agreed, trying not to bristle at the mention of a certain doctor’s name.
UO *
“You… um… look…” Kyo stuttered. He sat in the backseat of Shigure’s crowded car, peeking somewhat shyly at his dinner date. Uo sat with Hana and Shigure in the front seat. Squeezed into the back seat were Kyo, Momiji, Aya, Yuki and Haru. To Kyo’s humiliation, and Hana’s fascination, Yuki was practically sitting in Haru’s lap. The two girls were placed safely up front to avoid any accidental transformations.
“I look, what?” Uo wondered. Trying to act tough, and to not smile at Kyo’s endearing awkwardness.
“You…” Kyo started, and blushed furiously, leaning forward he whispered into her ear. “You look beautiful.”
“Excuse me, I am sorry, I didn’t quiet catch that. Could you repeat it?” Uo lied. She has heard perfectly well, but she wanted to hear it again.
“I said that you look beautiful.” Kyo repeated, even softer then before, since now everyone was looking at them.
“One more time.” Uo requested, and Kyo realized what she was up to.
“Damn it, woman. I said that you look beautiful. Okay? Now the whole damn car knows. Are you happy, now?” Kyo growled loudly, and sunk back into his seat in shame.
“Actually, Kyo, we all heard you the first time.” Shigure informed him.
“He’s such an idiot.” Yuki threw in his two cents.
“Shut up, rat boy. That’s my idiot you’re talking about.” Uo warned playfully, and Yuki backed down. Sighing, he cuddled quietly into Haru.
AKITO *
Akito watched as his wife - he already considered her as such - entered the room. She was late, which would make them late for their own dinner. Once, Akito realized, something as small as that would have sent him over the edge. Now he understood how petty such worries were. Tohru looked incredible, he admired, as he held out a thick black coat for her to slip into.
“You’re lovely.” He whispered into her ear. He brushed a soft kiss across her check, before turning his attention to Yoshi. “That is a beautiful dress, Yoshiya. It matches your eyes. Doesn’t she look wonderful, Hatori?”
Hatori kept silent, to Akito’s annoyance.
“Thank you, Master Akito.” Yoshi said uncomfortably.
“Please, Yoshiya, just Akito. There is no need for such formalities. I told you that we consider you a part of the family. Don’t we Hatori?”
“Yes, of course.” Hatori forced out, barely even allowing the pretty girl a glance. ‘What was his problem?’ Akito wondered. ‘Had something happened between those two? What a shame. Perhaps Hatori enjoyed being alone, after all.’
“Well, shall we go then?” Akito said, and lead the way out to the waiting car.
HARU *
‘Tohru looks beautiful.’ Haru realized unhappily. He was watching her as she entered the zodiac hall, upon Akito’s arm.
Akito removed her long black jacket, reviewing a stunning black satin evening gown. The gown had tiny, diamond laced, spaghetti straps, which accented Tohru’s pale skin. Her honey colored hair was fashioned into an intricate knot, held in place by a diamond hair piece in the shape of a dragonfly. Haru felt Yuki’s arm slip away from his own, and checked to see that Yuki was also noticing Tohru. Yuki’s violet eyes followed her every movement as she walked, escorted by Akito, towards them. Haru fought off growing feelings of overwhelming jealousy. The black part of him, which had gone missing, had instantly resurfaced in the company of his rival, and now it was begging to be set free upon the unsuspecting room.
“Yuki, Haru, I am so happy to see you both made it.” Akito welcomed them, keeping one arm wrapped protectively around his fiancées thin waist.
‘You fool, Yuki.’ Haru thought to himself. ‘Do you think that everyone is blind? Do you think we don’t see that you are practically drooling over her? If Akito kills you for it, you deserve to die.’
“Thank you, cousin Akito.” Haru said respectfully, and bowed slightly. “If you’ll excuse me.” Haru flashed Yuki a dirty look, before taking leave of them, to head towards the door. A gorgeous Rin, dressed like a classic goth princess, and a pretty Kagura, in fairy tale white, had both entered the room. A very nervous Ritsu trailed behind in their beautiful wake. Ritsu was dressed as a boy, in a nice black suit with not a hint of lace, Haru noticed, thankfully. Akito would have been displeased had Ritsu shown up in an evening gown like the girls.
“Rin.” Haru smiled sweetly. The dark haired beauty grinned back at him.
“Haru, I’ve missed you.” Rin told him, allowing him to take her hand and place a polite kiss upon it. Out of the corner of his eye, Haru noted that Yuki was watching them. In classic Black Haru style, he followed up the kiss by turning Rin’s hand over, and licking it from the center of her palm up to the tip of her index finger. His eyes locking sensuously upon Rin’s. Keeping her hand clutched tightly, he moved close to whisper in her ear.
“I’ve missed you too, Rin. Maybe after dinner we can hook up and relive old times.”
“My, aren’t we feeling rather black tonight?” Rin noticed, pulling her hand back, and wiping it off on the sleeve of Haru’s shirt. “Your boyfriend is heading this way, and he doesn’t look too happy.”
Of course, Haru realized, someone, probably Shigure, would have told her. Haru had just enough time to feel completely foolish, before Yuki was standing beside him.
RIN * (an: Forgive me if I’m blowing this)
“Rin.” Yuki greeted her coldly, not even bothering to hide the anger in his voice. “You’re looking very well. How have you been?” Without waiting for her to answer, Yuki grabbed Haru by the arm and pulled him outdoors to the balcony.
“Interesting?” Rin said to Kagura.
“That bastard.” Kagura said suddenly. “I can’t believe that he brought HER!” Rin followed Kagura’s eyes to where Kyo, Hana, Momiji and Uo, stood talking with Tohru.
“Which is she, Kagura? The blonde?”
“Uh, huh.” Kagura admitted, looking sadly at Kyo and Uo.
“Are they arguing?” As they watched, Uo smacked Kyo upside his head. He looked pissed off for a moment, but then he smiled at the pretty girl. ‘Poor Kagura, she’s doomed.’ Rin understood, and looked to her friend compassionately. ‘The cat was obviously in love.’
“That bitch!” Kagura boiled. Rin placed a calming hand upon her friends shoulder.
“Don’t. It’s not worth it, and making a scene will only upset Akito.”
“But… He’s mine.” Kagura insisted.
“Perhaps not, Kagura. It might be time for you to move on, and I think I have just the person.”
Rin smiled at her own brilliance. Grabbing Kagura by the hand, she headed for Ritsu who was presently playing the part of a wallflower. “Personally, I think an obedient monkey will make a much better pet then that silly kitty cat.”
Still staring after Kyo, Kagura followed her friend.
YUKI *
“What was that about, Haru?” Yuki asked bitterly. The two boys stood on the snowy patio. Since they had left their jackets inside, Yuki was freezing with only his present anger to keep him warm. He had caught every agonizing second of Haru’s little finger snack, and it had wounded him deeply.
“What?” Haru said innocently.
“Are you trying to make me jealous, or do you still have feelings for Rin?” Yuki wondered. His teeth chattered together, towards the end of his sentence, taking the edge off. Damn, it was too cold for this shit.
“Why? Did you get jealous?” Haru fished hopefully.
“No.” Yuki lied. “Of course not. If you want to be with Rin, go ahead. Don’t let me stop you.”
He turned his back to Haru, hugging his arms around himself, and shivering uncontrollably.
“I don’t.” Haru admitted. Stepping up behind Yuki, he wrapped him in his arms. “I’m sorry, Yuki. That was stupid of me. It’s just that, Yuki, it’s so obvious that you still have feelings for Tohru, maybe we should have waited.”
“That‘s not it.” Yuki insisted, turning in Haru’s arms, facing him. “I’m worried about her. I’ve told you that. It’s this wedding. It’s Akito. I can’t help it. I’m not in love with her, but she’s my friend, I am concerned for her. Haru, I need you to understand this. Please, promise me you won’t act like this anymore. I can’t stand it. It hurts.”
“I hurt you?” Haru realized. That was, of course, what he had been intending to do, but now it seemed like a stupid idea. He should protect Yuki, not hurt him. “I’m sorry. I’ll try, Yuki. I’m really sorry.”
“It’s okay.” Yuki told him, cuddling closer into Haru’s warmth. Looking over Haru’s shoulder, through the glass doors, into the hall, Yuki saw that Rin was watching them. The witch was actually smirking at him. Yuki looked away quickly. He placed his cold lips to Haru’s warm ones.
“I love you.” Yuki whispered, and his heart suddenly flooded with passion, the residual effect of jealousy. The kiss that ensued was staggering. The snow, the zodiac hall, their family, it all vanished. Yuki dissolved into Haru’s soft lips.
RIN *
Rin smiled softly to herself, watching the two boys kiss. ‘It is as it should be.’ She realized. Haru had been in love with Yuki forever. It was the real reason that she had broken up with him, after all. She adored Haru. Even with his flaws, or perhaps, because of them, he was perfection. She was so pleased that Yuki finally got it. They belonged together. This was fate.
“No! Shit!” Shigure said suddenly, and Rin popped out of her daydream. “Not here, Yuki. Are you insane?” Shigure had just spotted the kissing cousins upon the balcony. Unluckily, Akito had spotted them first. The head of the family was heading for the balcony. He did not look pleased.
“This could be bad.” Ritsu noticed. “Poor Yuki.”
“It will be fine.” Tohru assured them, as she quickly passed, and headed off Akito, before he could open the door and interrupt the two lovers.
AKITO *
“But do they have to do it here?” Akito growled at Tohru. He glanced out the window to where his two cousins were practically having sex on the balcony of the zodiac hall. “It’s disrespectful. It must stop, at once.” His hand went for the door, but Tohru grabbed it back, holding it tightly in hers.
“They’re in love, Akito.” Tohru soothed, smiling up at him, begging him to leave them be. “You understand it don’t you? Love makes you do foolish things.”
Akito got it, as always his wife made perfect sense. After all, hadn’t love made him do something foolish? Something dishonorable. Yes, love was powerful that way. Damn it, why was she always so right?
Nodding, Akito turned away from the door. “Can’t we at least tell them to get a room?” He wondered, looking back as Tohru pulled him away.
“Behave.” She laughed. “Dinner is about to be served, and I’m hungry.”
AKITO * (Two hours later)
“This is bullshit.” Uo complained, and Hana nodded in agreement. “I demand an explanation.”
Akito’s hand went to his head, massaging at the headache that was slowly forming. ‘Too many people,’ he thought, feeling slightly nauseous. ‘too much excitement.’ This dinner was a bad idea, but Tohru had wanted it. She had insisted on it, in fact. Tohru’s blonde friend was standing at the table, pointing an accusing finger at Hatori. Akito was surprised, this Uo was actually feistier than Tohru herself. Kyo would have his hands full with her.
“What do you mean? We have to wait outside during the wedding ceremony? The entire ceremony?” Kyo yelled, adding to the noise.
“Quiet down, Lucky Kyo. You’re upsetting, Akito.” Aya insisted, and quieted himself, when Akito flashed him a look of annoyance.
“Kyo, it is the tradition. You understand that we have to honor it. The only people allowed in the sacred shrine are the members of the zodiac, the council members, and the bride.”
“Isn’t Kyo a member of the zodiac?” Uo asked.
“He’s not.” Hana informed her. “He’s the cat.”
“The cat isn’t really a part of the zodiac. He’s special.” Momiji explained gently.
“Special?” Yuki laughed sarcastically. “That’s one way to put it?”
“Well, then I’m not going at all.” Kyo said bitterly. Standing up, he grabbed Uo’s hand, preparing to make a dramatic exit.
“Kyo.” Tohru’s voice was affectionate and soothing, Kyo turned to her. “I’m sorry Kyo. I’m so sorry that you, and Uo, and Hana, are not allowed inside of the shrine. I understand if you don’t want to come to our wedding. I don’t blame you, but I hope that you will change your mind. Akito and I really want you to be there. Right Akito?” All eyes turned to the head of the family. Akito’s eyes went wide. Did she really expect him to tell the cat that he wanted him at the wedding?
Across the table, the rat was actually smirking at him, Akito noticed, and a dark swirling cloud enveloped his heart. ‘I’ll kill them, all of them, the cat, the rat, and that stupid cow.’
“Akito?” Her soothing voice penetrated his mind. “Are you feeling all right?” Akito looked up at her. She stood in front of him, looking at him with those big concerned eyes. He glanced around the table. Everyone was staring at him, and the look in their eyes, he knew that look, because it was the same as what he saw in her eyes. Could it be possible? Were they actually worried for him? Tohru placed her hand upon his forehead, and then upon his cheek. The churning darkness evaporated instantly at her touch.
“You’re warm. Hatori, we need to get him home.”
“Wait.” Akito commanded. “I need a moment. Hatori, Tohru, please sit.”
Hatori and Tohru returned to their seats.
“Kyo, Uo, Hana. Tohru and I would like it very much if you would come to our wedding. If it was left up to me, I would invite you inside, regrettably it is not in my control. However, it would mean so much to Tohru, to myself, if you would all attend.”
“Akito?” Kyo marveled, was this for real? Could it be possible? Akito wanted him at the wedding?
“So, you’ll come?” Akito asked hopefully.
“Yes, Akito.” Kyo answered, unable to hide the tiniest smile. He wasn’t a zodiac family member yet, but wasn’t this a first step? “I will be happy to attend. Uo and Hana, will be there too.” He added. The two girls nodded in confused agreement.
“Well.” Akito smiled. “Good then. Hatori, Tohru, I would like to go home now, if that is okay.”
“Yes.” Hatori agreed and rushed to Akito’s side. Shaking visibly, Akito stood. He rested for a moment against Hatori, feeling embarrassed that he was so obviously weak. He was surprised to find Kyo suddenly beside him as well. Kyo offered up his shoulder.
“May I help too, Akito?” Kyo asked shyly. Smiling softly, Akito nodded. Supported between Kyo, and Hatori, Akito left the zodiac hall.
TOHRU * (Wedding Day - about time, don’t you think?)
“You can’t come in Akito.” Tohru giggled as she admired the wedding kimono that Aya and Yoshi were holding up before her.
“Yes.” Aya agreed. “It is bad luck to see the bride before the wedding.”
The door to Tohru’s room slid open, and Akito walked in.
“Aya, Tohru is marrying a Sohma, worse then that she’s marrying me. Her luck can’t possibly get any worse.” Akito told him honestly. “Can you two excuse us for a moment. I would like to speak with my wife.”
“Yes, of course.” Aya and Yoshi agreed, hurrying out of the room.
“Akito?” Tohru wondered, smiling up at him cheerfully.
“I wanted to talk with you. Sit down Tohru.” He requested. She sat on the edge of her bed, and Akito took a seat next to her. He took her hand in his.
“Is something the matter?” She asked. Her smile fading quickly into worry. “Are you all right? You’re not feeling ill?”
“I am fine.” He informed her. “I just wanted to tell you something.”
“Okay?” She waited while he found his words.
“Tohru, today, the ceremony, it will not be easy.” He admitted. “It will not be… normal.”
“I know.” She told him. “Hatori already told me that.”
“Damn him, can he let me do nothing myself?” Akito grumbled. “Well, then, what did that idiot doctor tell you?”
“He didn’t exactly go into detail. He just warned me that I should be prepared for anything. Akito, can you tell me what to expect?”
“No. To be honest, I am not even sure myself.” Akito said honestly. “From what I understand, once we enter the shrine our um… natural instincts will take over. I have no idea what that means. Tohru, I’m just worried about you.”
“I see. Your natural instincts.” Tohru said quietly. A million visions were blurring through her mind, and none of them were very pretty. She pictured Kyo on the night that he transformed into the beast. She remembered Black Haru the day at the high school, and she recalled the darkness of Akito’s special room. She was afraid, and even disappointed. Deep down, Tohru wanted what all girls wanted, a nice normal wedding, but she had made her decision. Tohru was marrying into the Sohma family, things would probably never be normal again. Whatever the ceremony would bring about, she was ready. She would sacrifice anything for Akito, and for his family.
“Tohru, do you want to back out? You look so very afraid?” Akito noticed miserably.
“No.” Tohru told him. “I am afraid, but I will be okay. Akito, you and this family, you’re my life now. Whatever comes, I can handle it.”
Akito kissed her softly, and he stood.
“Now, get out of here and send Aya and Yoshi back. I have a wedding to get ready for, and my fiancé hates it when people are late.”
“Certainly, my love.” Akito agreed.
KYO *
Kyo, Uo, Hana, Kazuma and Yoshiya stood upon the snowy walk leading to the zodiac shrine. Like the other invited, but uninvited, family members, their heads were bowed. The zodiac procession had begun.
“Who are they?” Uo whispered, too loudly. The people in question are the four strangers, dressed in extravagant Kimonos, that surround the stunningly beautiful bride. Two walk in front of her, and two walk behind. Tohru faces forward, hiding her fear behind a counterfeit smile.
“Shhh… Don’t talk, it’s disrespectful.” Hana informed her, and Kyo wondered how she knew that.
“But I want to know, who are they?” Uo insisted even louder.
“They are the council of the elders.” Kyo whispered back.
“But they are all women!” Uo practically screamed. Kyo nearly had a heart attack as eight pairs of cold eyes turned upon them.
“They are not all women. That one in the back is a guy.” Hana noticed, an Uo looked up to see that her friend was correct. He was a guy and he was a hottie.
“Wow, he’s so young, and he’s really handsome.” Uo noticed to Kyo’s shame. The young man in question. A pretty boy, all of twenty two, graced Hana and Uo with a tiny smile, before turning his face back towards the shrine that he was now about to enter.
“They are Tuuli, Hikari, Shiara, and Frei.” Kazuma explained, under his breath, as the elders entered the shrine. At the end of the walkway Akito had stepped forward. The head of the family, the groom, lead the procession of the zodiac. “Hatori is the other council member. He presently serves in Yuki’s place.” Kyo grimaced, but since he was still bowing, no one noticed. “Three are women, yes. The seat of an elder is inherited, much as the curse is. It does not discriminate of sex.”
Kazuma quieted as Akito was now about to pass. Akito slowed in front of Kyo, and then stopped completely as he made a decision. Reaching down he touched Kyo gently upon one shoulder. “Thank you for coming, Kyo.” He said softly, causing the cat to blush with a mixture of pride and embarrassment. For the head of the family to single someone out this way was an honor. That Akito chose to single out the cat was nothing short of a miracle. Beside him, Kazuma, his father, felt tears of pride threatening.
“Thank you, Akito.” Kyo said softly.
Akito continued toward the shrine.
YUKI *
Yuki’s heart was filled with foreboding as he stepped through the heavy ivory doors of the zodiac shrine.
‘This place it’s wrong. Something about it, is very wrong.’ The thought assaulted his brain, a distant shadow that surrounded him with dread. He halted, momentarily, as he tried to regain his bearings. ‘I’ve visited this place. It’s so familiar, why?’ Haru gently nudged him, he was holding up the procession. Yuki continued reluctantly down the long wooden aisle leading to the alters.
Glancing forward, behind the alters, his eyes lit upon the statue. Once again he faltered.
“Those dreams.” Yuki whispered, as a shiver flowed through his heart. His violet eyes grew big, shaky. He considered turning back, running actually, bolting out of the shrine. At that moment he desired only escape.
The statue was painfully familiar. It was part of a recurring nightmare, one he had so often dreamt while locked inside of Akito’s special room. In his nightmare the statue was always alive, chasing him, trying to draw him back, trying to devour him. This sculpture, which is made of porcelain, is the form of the beast. It resembles Kyo’s dark form, only Kyo never looked that way, not ever. The sculptures eyes are made of dark cold marble, and these are familiar too, because they are Akito’s eyes. From the body of the beast twelve souls are trying to escape, the twelve souls of the zodiac. The beast is reaching with blood red claws, he is trying to pull them back.
He was remembering now, as he stumbled closer. Everything was coming back to him, only gradually, like a Chinese water torture, drip drip drip, the memories crept towards him. They have been locked inside these walls, memories that are over a thousand years old. They are calling to him, whispering his name.
Yuki pulled his eyes away from the statue. He didn’t want to know. He didn’t want to remember, because if he remembered that meant that the others might remember. He is certain that the others will hate him. They will hate him because he was the reason, he was the one that brought the curse upon the family.
He continued slowly, moving unconsciously, until he found the spot at the alter where he strangely knew that he belonged. His place was next to the bride. It was part of the rat’s punishment that he would assist the groom. Tohru stared up at him, her eyes were empty. Like the rest of them, she was under a trance, she was simply playing a required part. On her other side stood Akito, his eyes glowing darkly. Their was no sign of the gracious dinner host, Yuki noticed wretchedly. Those black eyes resembled the statue. They were dark and cold and mercilessly dangerous.
The elders were seated upon four black marble thrones, two to the right, two to the left. The women were all pretty, and young, it felt ironic that the elders were each so young. Older than twenty as was required, but none were older than twenty eight, and all four had splendid red hair.
Frei was also pretty, Yuki noticed. A boy with flowing red hair and pale green eyes. Presently, those eyes were locked upon Haru. Turning his head, Yuki discovered that Haru was gazing back at the elder. Jealousy nipped at Yuki’s stomach. His lovers eyes were filled with dark lust. Yuki fought his nature. He wanted to slap Haru, to shake him. He wanted to remind the cow that he was taken, but this was not the place for such a scene. The rat pushed away his jealousy, but it didn’t want to go.
Reality called Yuki back. Hatori was standing in front of him, a silver box held open in the palm of his hand. Yuki grew immediately calm as he looked upon the glorious ring. Reaching his thin fingers into the small box Yuki plucks the ring from it’s jeweled home. In that moment Yuki has remembered everything, the rat has found his place.
THE BEAST *
‘It was the rat’s fault that they were all cursed.’ Akito watched Yuki, his dark anger was whispering to him, it was telling him secrets, it was reliving the past.
Once they lived in peace. Thirteen angels, with thirteen souls, they were joined together as one perfect family. They lived in paradise under a loving, but possessive god, their master was the beast. The cat was the master’s favorite, his lover, his soul mate. The rat was the cats confidant, his most trusted ally, his friend.
Of all of the angels the rat was the most adored. His lover was the cow, however the rat was desired by all thirteen of the angels. The rat was charming, he was lovely, and he was very cunning. The truth was that the rat wasn’t really good, he was only pretending to be good. The rat wanted only to be loved, and the rat possessed a bitterly jealous heart. He was jealous of the cat, because he wanted to be the favorite of their master, and so the rat plotted to win the heart of their lord.
In addition to the thirteen angels, four others existed in paradise. The four elders, the servants of the beast. It was through the elders that the rat learned about the humans. The humans were souls who inhabited a place known as earth. He also learned of the one thing that was most coveted by their master. A piece of precious metal, spun by human hands, it was called a ring, and the master desired it.
With this knowledge in hand, the rat called together eleven of the angels, he excluded the cat.
“I want to give our master a gift, but I require your assistance.” The rat beseeched the angels. “I need to visit this place called earth.”
“A present for the master? A wonderful idea.” All of the angels agreed. They each wanted to please the master, but they also wanted to please the rat, this seemed a way that they could accomplish both.
“I will need you,” The rat pointed to the dragon. “to carry me. My lovely dragon, with your wings we can travel far and quickly. We can find the ring maker, and return within a week. The master need not know that we are gone.”
“I would be honored.” The dragon proudly agreed.
“I will bring you,” The rat told the cow. “along as my navigator.” Since the rat was in love, he was blind to the cows inadequacies. The rat had heard rumors that one of the elders desired the cow. He would not risk leaving his lover behind. The rat was, before all else, fatally jealous.
“I will count on the rest of you to conceal our absence from our master.” The rat said with a beguiling smile. “Whatever you do, do not tell the cat. He has a big mouth, and he will ruin the masters surprise.”
The three set off the next morning, but as was to be expected, the cow’s sense of direction got them immediately lost. It took two weeks for them to find the earth, and another three days for them to find a ring makers shop. The shop they found was located in the forests of Japan, and was owned by a family named Sohma. The ring maker was skillful. Both the ring, as well as it’s jeweled container were forged in less then two days.
Meanwhile, back in paradise their absence was discovered on the thirteenth day. It was the boar who finally betrayed the rat. She told the cat, and the cat told the beast. The beast was angry. How dare his angels leave paradise without his permission. The beast sent the cat down to earth, riding upon a pale white dove, to retrieve his wayward souls.
The ring maker had a daughter, and she was uncommonly beautiful. Her hair was the color of the sunrise, her eyes like a pale blue day. She was the first human the cat came upon, and he fell instantly and helplessly in love. The cat vowed to make the girl his wife. He returned to paradise to seek his masters blessing. The cat wanted to marry the girl, and he required a human form.
The master was furious, overcome with jealousy, anger, and grief. He had been betrayed by all that he loved. The elders had told his secrets to the rat. The rat, the cow, and the dragon, had left paradise without permission. The other angels had covered it up. For this they would all pay, they would be cursed. The cat, however, deserved to be doubly cursed, because his heart had been unfaithful, as well as his soul.
The spell was cast, underneath a blood red moon, upon the night of the new year. Their master took his own life, in order to place his soul, his bitter curse, into the heart of the ring. The ring was left, along with instructions, in the hands of the four elders. All of the angels were ordered to attend the wedding of the cat. The ring was to be a present to the bride from her groom.
When the cat placed the ring upon the finger of his bride, her hand bled, and the curse was set into motion. As per the instructions, her blood was captured within a golden urn and each of the thirteen angels drank of it, thus obtaining a cursed humanity. The angels were banished from paradise to earth. In order to assure that the angels would not find peace in the arms of the humans their master placed a provision. If ever they were hugged by a member of opposite sex they would transform back into their original forms.
The cats punishment was times two, his entire existence was cursed. One day before the birth of his son, the cat died, and his child was born with duel souls. It was their master’s malicious wish that his soul would live forever. This would allow him to torment and control his angels into eternity. The cat himself was reborn as the family outcast, one who possessed three forms, that of the beast, that of the cat, and that of the human. This curse was named for the bride. The Sohma family curse. The elders were sent to earth to live as humans and to protect the curse.
AKITO *
Somewhere faraway, his friend, the doctor cleared his throat. Akito swam for the surface, away from the memories that threatened to consume him. He fought his way up through the shroud of darkness that was as thick as the foulest swamp. He looked across the shrine to Hatori, appreciatively, once again the dragon had rescued him.
‘That’s right, I’m getting married.’ Akito glanced upon his bride. ‘Why did she look so… missing? Where was Tohru? What was she thinking? Was she afraid?’ The rat stepped forward. ‘The damn rat… no, it was just Yuki, his cousin, and he was smiling at him. The rat seemed happy, why would that be?’ Akito took the ring from Yuki’s fingers. The cold steel felt heavy, like an anchor, the families anchor. Akito stared around the room, his eyes darting along, counting each of his cousins. Only twelve, because the thirteenth angel was exiled from the shrine. It was as it should be, or was it?
“Akito?” Tohru whispered, she was holding out her hand like a good little bride, she was waiting. Upon her finger a small diamond glittered. She still wore the other ring. He had forgotten to remove it, before the ceremony, and now found he didn’t want to. Fighting to stay on top, to keep his darkness locked away, Akito took Tohru’s hand into his own. “I’m so sorry, Tohru.” He whispered, and slid the ring upon her precious finger, hearing a faint click as platinum kissed white gold. He waited, holding her hand tightly within his grasp. They all waited, silently dreading what would happen next.
Nothing happened.
‘I should have removed the other ring.’ Akito decided, feeling foolish. He placed his fingers upon the ring, intending to remove it, to start over.
“Akito… Leave it Akito…” The woman’s voice was gentle, and unexpected. A loving voice that Akito didn’t know, and yet it somehow seemed familiar. The ring pulled away from his fingers, it glowed bright white, burning the room with it radiance.
“That isn’t right.” Hikari stated. “Something’s wrong.”
Akito felt dizzy, inside him a war was brewing. Dark and light colliding. The beast was angry. ‘What were they trying to pull?’
The glow faded, leaving only one ring upon Tohru’s finger, the platinum one, the other had disappeared.
“What?” Akito wondered, and now he was afraid. He grasped the ring, with shaky fingers. He tugged at it, but it held steadfast, this ring had found it’s home. “Take care of my daughter, Akito.” The voice whispered again. “Hug my grandchildren for me.”
TOHRU *
Her husband smiled at her, and for a moment she was relieved, because she thought it was over, but of course, it wasn’t.
“She’s impure.” Shiara cried loudly. Standing she heading towards them, a look of fury creasing her lovely brow. Akito moved his hand over the ring, wanting to hide the evidence, wanting to protect his wife..
“She’s already with child.” Frei informed them calmly.
“Tohru?” Akito questioned, was it true? Tohru could hear the others reacting as well. Momiji could barely control his excitement, and Kisa was whispering too loud. This was bad.
“I’m sorry, Akito.” Tohru mumbled, and then stepped back, because Hikari was standing behind Akito, and Tohru was frightened of this particular elder. She was certain that Hikari didn’t like her at all.
“What evil plot is this?” Hikari accused. “Did you hope to save yourself, Akito?”
“Quiet down, my sister.” Frei requested. “I do not believe this was what Akito intended. It is not too late, this can still be repaired.”
“Frei’s right. Take the ring from her, Akito.” Shiara demanded. “We cannot approve of this marriage. Hatori you will need to arrange for another, immediately.”
“Akito? I…” Tohru’s heart was breaking. She pulled her hand from his, trying to remove the ring herself. “I’m so sorry. I’ll give you back the ring. I didn’t mean for this to happen.”
“Stop it Tohru.” Akito demanded. “That isn’t the ring.” He pulled her into his arms, wrapping her tightly, wanting to protect her, as well as his child, from this madness. “The ring is gone.” He informed the room.
“Gone?” Tuuli questioned. “What do you mean, gone?”
“I mean it’s gone, it’s disappeared. See for yourself?” He held Tohru’s hand up, allowing the elders to see the simple diamond band. “I don’t know why, but the ring is gone. Tohru is my wife, she is carrying my child, and I will not allow anyone to take that from me. I will not marry another. I am sorry, but I cannot.”
“Do you know what this means?” Hakari asked him. “You’re sacrificing your cousins.”
“You understand that they may die?” Shiara added.
“NO!” Torhu shouted. “I will not let them die! Akito, we can’t.”
“It is okay, Tohru.” Hatori spoke up. “The ring is gone now. Without the ring, there can be no ceremony. For better or worse, It has been decided.”
“Hatori, there must be a way to fix this.” Tohru determined, and turned to Tuuli, the only elder that did not frighten her. “Isn’t there something that we can do?”
The elder said nothing, only looked upon her in pity.
“Well, I for one, know what we can do.” Aya piped up. He was personally tired of all this talk of doom and gloom. If he was going to go, he was going in style. “We can have that wedding reception. Let’s get out of this nasty tomb.”
“That sound’s pretty good to me.” Haru agreed.
“Well, okay then.” Shigure said, and turned to the elders. “Is that alright with you? I mean your invited too, of course.”
“So be it.” Frei settled it. “We will leave the rest to fate.”
HARU *
Haru stood at the side of the dance floor, watching his cousins. ‘What a weird family we are.’ He thought to himself, watching as Shigure dipped Aya, and Hiro kissed Kisa. Kyo was slow dancing with Uo, but at arms length, which looked pretty dorky. Off to the right Kagura sat with Ritsu, and Rin. They looked like they were planning something. ‘I bet their victim will be Kyo.’ He giggled quietly.
“What’s so funny.” Yuki asked, stepping up beside him and handing him a glass of wine.
“Nothing.” Haru told him. “I was just thinking.”
“Haru, are you worried? I mean about dying… are you afraid.”
“No, Yuki. Not really. I just figure that if I do, I probably deserve it.” Haru admitted. “I was the one who got us lost, remember? A thousand years, it’s a long time. Perhaps if we die, the curse might end. That would be a good thing, right?”
“But what if it doesn’t? What if we just die, and the curse continues.” Yuki wondered.
“Anything’s possible, I suppose.” Haru agreed. He gazed across the dance floor to where Tohru and Akito were talking to Hana and Hatori. Akito had one arm wrapped around Tohru, his hand resting protectively upon her stomach, sheltering his child. “I do think that Akito and Tohru deserve to be happy. A father should be allowed to hold his child, for that alone I would give up my life.”
Yuki said nothing for awhile, he just watched Haru as he watched the others. Finally, he made a decision. “Haru. I’d like to go home now. Do you mind if we leave?”
“Already?” Haru wondered.
“Yes, it’s cold out, but I’d like to walk. I feel like it actually, and if it‘s alright with you, I would like to stay at your place tonight. It’s closer. In fact, I’ve been thinking, perhaps we should move in together, would you like that? Would it be okay?”
“Are you serious?” Haru said, his face beaming with joy. “I would love that.”
“Good.” Yuki smiled. “Now, let’s go home.”
“Okay, let’s say goodbye to everyone then.”
“Let’s not.” Yuki argued. “I really just want to get out of here. I want to be alone, with you.”
“Okay then. Wait here I will get our coats, and we can go.”
“Thanks Haru.” Yuki said, and took a seat to wait for his lover to return. A thousand years was indeed along time, and the rat was feeling suddenly very tired.
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Okay, well, it appears that I will have to write the epilogue, so we are not quite finished.. I will try to get it up soon as possible.
Meanwhile… um… I am almost afraid to ask, but let me know what you think… and I’ll see you soon.