Fushigi Yuugi Fan Fiction ❯ Burned ❯ A Touch of Fire ( Chapter 2 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: KittyLynne 
Anime/Manga: Fushigi Yuugi Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Hentai | Type: Continuation | Uploaded On: 09.17.2004 | Updated On: 05.18.2005 | Pages: 5 | Words: 9.3K | Visits: 3.3K | Status: Completed
Anime/Manga: Fushigi Yuugi Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Hentai | Type: Continuation | Uploaded On: 09.17.2004 | Updated On: 05.18.2005 | Pages: 5 | Words: 9.3K | Visits: 3.3K | Status: Completed
Burned
Written by: KittyLynne
Legal disclaimer: I don't own the rights to Fushigi Yuugi or its characters; they belong to the immensely talented Y Watase. I do claim the rights to the original elements of plot and characterization in this tale, as well as the narrative and dialogue. Any reproduction of this story in any form without my written consent will be regarded as theft and plagiarism, and will be dealt with accordingly.
Japanese words to know:
Odango: Chinese dumpling, also a slang term that refers to the twin bun hairstyle that Miaka wore during most of her time in the Universe of the Four Gods book.
Kuso: 'shit'
Author's notes: NC-17 rated for sensuality, adult situations/conversation and cussing. Unspoken thoughts are in italics. Spoilers for TV series warning. Again, keep in mind that the events portrayed in the second OVA series haven't happened. Thanks to my hubby, a.k.a. The Bandit, for editing this chapter for me, and for his suggestion of a certain key phrase.
Chapter Two: A Touch of Fire
Miaka awoke to the dawning light of a new day and the dewy caress of a morning breeze upon her heated skin. Yawning widely, she indulged in a luxurious stretch, and then watched in sleepy-eyed wonder as the creeping light of the sun banished the shadows around her. As her surroundings were gradually revealed, languor fled and she bolted upright.
It wasn't a dream! I'm back in Konan!
A soft, rhythmic chanting had begun somewhere outside her cocoon of blankets. The Priestess listened intently, and then smiled in recognition of the cadence and pitch of the voice. After the emotional and physical upheaval she'd experienced in the last twenty four hours, it warmed and comforted her to hear Chichiri reciting his morning prayers to Suzaku, a ritual he'd performed on the previous journeys they'd taken together.
So Chiri-kun was awake...but what of Tasuki?
Miaka stared at the thin screen that separated her from the bandit warrior, her breathing quickening as memories of the previous times they'd shared quarters flooded her mind. She'd always enjoyed watching him sleep during their travels together-in part because of the uninhibited way he took over a bed, but mostly because he looked so atypically sweet and angelic in slumber. It had been a fun and innocent pastime to watch him like that, back when she hadn't seen him as the man he truly was. Now that she did... those memories took on a much deeper meaning and a distinctly sensual hue.
Last night she had longed for Tasuki to kiss her. Her acute disappointment that he hadn't had brought on a restless night, filled with dreams of him that had gone far beyond fulfilling that simple wish. Her body still thrummed with remembered arousal as it recalled the sensations her fiery dream lover had invoked. Even when awake, she could still imagine herself touching him, kissing him, wrapping her legs around him as he made them one …
Taking a deep, shuddering inhalation of air, Miaka fought hard for control. The last thing she should want was to get swept up in pursuing another unattainable fantasy- after all, who knew better than she that living a dream wasn't possible, even in the book world? Misery clawed at her gut at the thought, banishing the flickering glow of arousal. Once bitten, twice shy…wasn't that how the old saying went? How could she even think of going down that dead end road a second time? It was crazy. There was no future in loving one of her seishi. It would make no difference if he returned the sentiment. Even if they coupled, it was inevitable that they would be forced to part, and she would have to return to her world, alone, just like it had happened with Tamahome.
And yet…even knowing the pain and heartache that breaking the rules would bring, an incurably optimistic part of her was rising to the surface, shouting that love was always worth the risk, that she was strong enough to overcome the hurt, and that she wouldn't regret taking a chance if it meant experiencing all the pleasures of loving a man like Tasuki.
A bittersweet smile touched the Priestess' lips. If Keisuke were here, he'd say, 'the more things change, the more they stay the same'.
During their precious times together in the book, she had clung to hope and Tamahome with the thought that if their relationship was meant to be, Suzaku would end up granting her secret wish to stay in Konan, and if it wasn't, at least she would have made the most of every moment spent with her beloved.
There was no doubt that she had grown tremendously as a person in loving Tamahome. Her feelings for him had given purpose and focus during a troubled time in her life, had forced her to see the big picture lying beyond her own insular world, and had put her petty teenage problems in perspective. As much as it had hurt to let him go, the times she had spent with him had been worth every painful moment, and had become treasured memories. Now that she was older, sadder, and wiser, she could still honestly say she held no regrets about having loved him, and that she was grateful for having had the experience.
Loving Tamahome back then helped me to grow up…maybe loving Tasuki now will help me become the woman I want to be.
Miaka hugged her drawn up knees to her chest as she admitted the truth to herself. The simple fact was that her heart had always ruled her head, and would continue to do so. The same heart that had loved Tamahome was now yearning for Tasuki and all he had to offer, conventional wisdom be damned. The only unknown she faced now was whether or not he felt the same, or if what he had done and said last night was only the result of fond nostalgia and too much sake.
Unconsciously, she touched her hand, recalling the tender touch of Tasuki's lips and the intense way he'd looked at her. He had initiated the almost kiss, had seemed in perfect control of his actions…but what it had it all meant? There was only one way to find out for sure; she had to confront Tasuki and confess her feelings for him. Although Keisuke had warned her to avoid taking unnecessary chances, this was different. This was about life and being able to live it full out- something she hadn't been able to do for many years.
Brother dear, please forgive me, but I'll always take risks for the sake of true love.
As the chants of the seishi monk faded to a murmured benediction, Miaka tossed aside her covers and scrambled out of bed to prepare for what she knew would be one of the most momentous days in her life.
He tried not to listen to the erotic sounds of her disrobing and dressing again, but it was to no avail. Almost immediately, memories of a scantily clad Miaka standing tall and proud in the Caverns of Genbu floated into his mind-the first time he'd gotten more than a partial glimpse of her beautiful breasts. They had been surprisingly full, with erect nipples that poked out enticingly beneath her silk undergarment. He'd saved her life then, burning and melting the ice serpents that were threatening to freeze the life out of her. He'd earned her heartfelt thanks and a smile that had done wonders for his morale, but after all was said and done, Little Ghost had been the one who had gotten to grope her…
A sudden flash of color brought his reminiscing to an abrupt halt as his celestial mark blazed to life. Mouthing silent curses, he quickly doused the light with a hand and then flung himself over onto his stomach in hopes of suppressing the stirring in his loins. It didn't work. The ache only increased its demands to be assuaged. Relieving it himself wasn't an option with Miaka and Chichiri around, so he went with the only possible option. Gritting his teeth, he replaced the sexy and sultry image of Miaka with one of a buck naked, loudly cackling Taiits-kun.
Ah yes, instant deflation. That was better. Now that he had gotten his rebellious body back under control, he could think about Miaka some more.
She was special. It was true that he'd wanted other women before- and had had his share- but with this woman, his viewpoint was entirely different. In a drunken, maudlin moment, Kouji had once told him that there was a huge difference between fucking and making love… and now he finally understood exactly what his best friend had meant. His feelings for Miaka definitely ran deeper than the simple, primal urge to mate.
Physical desire wasn't the source of the pleasure he took in having Miaka near to him, in listening to her speak or watching her smile, and in doing things to impress or please her. For the very first time in his life, he wanted to make a woman happy in every way he knew how. For the first time in his life, he actually yearned for the chance to show a woman how much he cared for her, without giving a damn about the possible consequences of doing so.
Just why the hell was that? What were these strange, exhilarating feelings all about, anyway?
He'd pondered those questions well into the wee hours of the morning, and finally came to the world shaking realization that it was because he'd fallen in love with Miaka. After getting over the shock, he was presented with another conundrum- how and when to tell her. It definitely wasn't in his make up to be bashful and tongue-tied, but apparently love could make him worry about stupid little things like what words to use, how to say them, and at what time that they should be said. It also made him fret over whether the feelings would be requited or not. True, last night she'd made it obvious that she'd wanted a kiss, but that was no guarantee she would be willing to accept anything from him in the broad light of day. It could have been the booze talking. It could have simply been an emotional reaction from being reunited with her old friends again. Hell, for all he knew, he might have been only a stand in for Tamahome!
Tasuki scowled. For some unknown reason, Chichiri had wanted the subject of Tamahome left alone. Last night he had humored his friend's whim, but today was another matter entirely. Whether the monk approved of it or not, he was going to find out how and where Tama fit into Miaka's life. Not knowing if or when her stay in this world would end made reaching that objective all the more urgent. Time was too short and too damn precious for him to be subtle in pursuing the truth.
A soft, rhythmic stroking noise began on the other side of the wall, providing a pleasant distraction from his angst riddled thoughts. The bandit seishi's face softened and a smile curved his lips as he put a name to the sound. Miaka was brushing her hair; fifty strokes on each side, if memory served. On their previous travels, he had secretly enjoyed watching her do her hair. It was a beautiful color, so shiny and soft, made for a man to wrap around his fingers…to bury his face in, as she writhed in pleasure beneath him…
Kuso! Hard as a damn rock once again, and this time even a Taiits-kun scenario wouldn't be of help! He'd had enough of letting Miaka go, be it in his fantasies or in real life. He wanted her for keeps, in his bed, his heart and his life...and come hell or high water, he was going to do something about it!
They made small talk, and then Miaka raised the subject of their impending journey to Sairo. She was surprised to learn that he and Tasuki had arranged to make the trip on horseback. When she inquired as to why, the monk told her that the Empress had thought it best for them not to use magic, and because Tasuki had flatly refused to go by boat.
Miaka hid a smile. Apparently some things never changed.
"I'm certain the Empress Dowager would change her mind about my using the kasa when she hears that you've returned, no da," Chichiri added thoughtfully. "She'd want to take steps to insure your safety while you're here."
Miaka's heart dropped at the mention of an official escort. "In that case, Chiri-kun, I 'd rather that you and Tasuki didn't tell anyone else that I've returned."
The monk gave her a perplexed look. "May I ask why, no da?"
"I don't want that kind of fuss and distraction right now," she replied honestly. "You see, my reason for returning is because of-"
"Tamahome."
The name cut through the air like a thrown dagger. Miaka jerked in surprise as a half-clad Tasuki emerged from behind his screen and stepped into the rays of light streaming through the open window. All other thoughts fled as she gaped at him in mute admiration, transfixed by the way the sun's rays turned his hair into a halo of fire, and bathed his muscular torso in a pale, erotic wash of gold.
Her gaze lowered as he moved forward, taking note of how his pants pulled taut with every step, outlining the enticing mound swaying between his lean hips and strong thighs. Her breathing suspended, and then resumed in a soft whoosh of air. Every nerve ending she had was honed to razor sharp awareness of the man in front of her. When he came to a slow halt a body's length away, her gaze skittered back up to his face. Exotic eyes, glittering with suppressed emotion, stared unblinkingly into hers as he spoke.
"Am I right, Miaka? Are ya here because of Tamahome?"
"Um…" Overwhelmed by his sensual, masculine beauty, she struggled for an answer.
"Tasuki, I don't think it's a very good time for this discussion, no da." Chichiri told his friend reprovingly.
"When is it ever a good time?" The redhead shot back. "We can't go on avoidin' the subject forever, and besides, I think as his fellow seishi, we got the right t'know!"
"You could have waited until after breakfast, no da!"
"If I had, you'd probably find another stupid reason not t'talk about it!"
Miaka cringed as her seishi continued to squabble. It was true that she wasn't keen to tackle the subject right off the bat, but the last thing she wanted was to cause trouble between her friends. "It's okay," she said quietly, drawing both men's attention at once. "Please don't fight. I should have been straight with you both last night as to why I'm here." Regret glistened in her eyes at the thought of having been the cause of dissension. "You're right, Tasuki. I've come back because of Tamahome."
A deep silence followed her pronouncement.
"So where th' hell is he?" Tasuki inquired at last, looking as if he dreaded the answer.
"That's exactly what I've been asking!" A mirthless laugh escaped Miaka's throat. "When we had to part for the last time, Tamahome swore that he'd find a way back to my world, but so far, I have no idea if he was able to do it. All I know is that after nine years of waiting and wondering if he'll ever find me, I need to find out what happened to him. Even if the truth hurts, it's still better than not knowing."
Tasuki blew out a long, quiet breath. "Why didn't ya say somethin' about this last night, Miaka?" He asked tautly. "Didn't ya think we'd understand? Didn't ya think we'd help ya?"
"No, that's not it." Heat crept into her cheeks as she explained. "It was because last night… was the first time in a long while that I've felt truly happy. Usually I feel this tremendous sense of guilt when I'm around men in a social way, but since you were close friends to Tamahome, I felt I could laugh and enjoy myself without feeling guilty. It's been years since I've been able to do that… and I didn't want the feeling taken away from me."
Tasuki's eyes widened, but for once he seemed to have nothing to say.
"You aren't socializing in your world, no da?" Chichiri asked in surprise. Miaka had always made friends so easily- he couldn't imagine her living such a solitary life for so long.
His priestess nodded. "There was a time when I used to go out regularly with Yui and a couple of other girlfriends, but it's gotten more difficult the older we get." She replied softly. "They're too busy with their families and careers to be able to go out on a regular basis, and to be honest…on the rare occasions that we have gone out lately, I haven't really had fun with them. They all have husbands and babies they love talking about, which emphasizes that I'm still alone, and still waiting." Miaka bowed her head. "I should be grateful that I had a great love in my life but lately, it seems that all I can think of is what I no longer have, and I'm not sure that Tamahome was the one who was meant for me. I know it's horribly selfish to think that way, but…"
"It's not selfish! You have the right to choose who you want to love and when, no da. " Chichiri injected firmly. "And furthermore, I think- no, I'm sure Tamahome would have wanted you to live your life to its fullest potential, even if it wasn't with him!"
"Damn straight! Tama wanted ya t' be happy, no matter what!" Tasuki concurred. "He wouldn't want to see ya lockin' yourself away like a damn hermit! It ain't healthy!"
Miaka looked up to meet the compassionate gazes of her seishi. Tears welled up in her eyes, as waves of emotion threatened to sweep away her composure. It was so wonderful have the support of her warriors again, and to know their loyalty to her had remained unconditional and steadfast. "Thank you both for understanding," she murmured, bowing and blinking away the telltale tears at the same time. "Thank you so much."
"We're your friends, dammit," the bandit said gruffly. "We want ya t'be happy too."
"That's right, no da. We do. " Chichiri agreed, stepping forward to envelop her in a warm hug. Tasuki glared at his brother seishi but then looked away, unwilling to say anything that would deprive Miaka of the comfort she needed.
After releasing their priestess, the monk slipped on his mask, which he produced with a wave of his fingers. "And now I think it's time I go put in an order for breakfast! I know you'll feel better after you eat, Miaka." The mask smiled cheerfully at her. "They will bring trays up to the room. It's best if you keep out of public gathering places like restaurants if you don't want the Empress to discover you're in Konan, no da."
She glanced down at the pale yellow t-shirt dress that she'd slipped on because it was both comfortable and becoming. By modern standards it was quite modest, but in this day and age where women were kept covered from head to foot, the style was bound to raise some ancient Chinese eyebrows. "That's a very good idea. I'm not exactly dressed to fit in around here, am I?"
"So what does that matter? Ya look great to me!"
Miaka felt her cheeks growing hot as Tasuki's gaze took her in from head to toe. "Thank you. You're very kind to say that."
The bandit seishi gave a half shrug as their eyes met. "It's not bein' kind. It's th' truth."
The unexpected compliment and honest admiration shining in his eyes threw her for a loop. At a loss for words, she looked away.
There was a short, awkward silence, and then Chichiri spoke. "I agree with Tasuki," he said calmly, "but if you don't want to attract attention, you'll need to dress like the locals, no da. After I order our breakfasts, I can make a quick trip over to the market to get some garments for you. When it's time to leave, we'll take you out the back way to the stables, no da."
"All right." Miaka smiled at the monk, then cast a startled glance at Tasuki, who had hurried over to give his friend a wince-inducing slap on the back.
"A kick ass plan, Chiri! Me an' Mi-chan will hang out here until ya get back."
Chichiri smirked as the younger seishi quickly retrieved his shakajou and stuffed it, along with the magical kesa, into the monk's empty hands. It was patently obvious that Tasuki couldn't wait to get Miaka all to himself, a fact that was punctuated by the bandit's cheerful farewell as he steered and nudged his brother warrior towards the exit.
And so it was, after a quick exchange of goodbyes with Miaka and a wild snatch for his discarded slippers, that the blue-haired seishi found himself planted on the opposite side of the thick wooden door. He set down and stepped into his slippers as it closed, then stood staring at the carved panels for several seconds, thinking hard.
Something extraordinary was brewing between Tasuki and Miaka, that much was certain. The smiles, lingering glances and frequent blushes all attested to a very mutual attraction, but the real proof was in the drastic elevation of their life forces. Those confirmed without a doubt that feelings of an intensely romantic nature were running deep, hot, and so strong that Chichiri feared he'd have to lower his own chi just to maintain a safe psychic balance in the room. Of course, that particular problem could also be solved by the two of them getting together physically. Sexual intercourse could be a very effective method for draining pent up chi, as well as for building it up… or so he'd been told. He'd always wondered if it were true…
All right, it was time to stop thinking that way, or he'd end up with a big problem of his own on his hands.
Blushing furiously, the monk hurried off to take care of his errands.
Outside the window Miaka could hear the strains of a city coming to life…but as far as she was concerned, her world had narrowed to a single room and the man standing in it. Tasuki was staring at her too, with an expression that suggested that he was trying to read her thoughts.
"Is…something wrong?" She finally asked, when the silence had stretched to the breaking point.
He blinked, and then smiled faintly. "Nah, not really. I was just thinkin' about you an' me... an' Tamahome."
A sense of expectancy now quivered between them, as if something was waiting for the right words to release it, but for the life of her, Miaka couldn't think of an appropriate response. She nervously tucked an errant strand of hair behind her ear, conscious that wolf-like eyes were closely following every movement she made.
After an awkward moment, her companion dragged a careless hand through his own hair, opened his mouth, hesitated, and then blurted, "I was just wonderin' what you're plannin' to do if we can't find Tama?"
It was a fair question, she supposed. Too bad she didn't have a definitive answer for it. "If it comes to the point that there's no hope of finding out what happened to him, I'll move on with my life." A barely audible sigh parted her lips. "I suppose I'll even get to the point where I can start dating again...eventually."
Tasuki's brow creased. "What's this...'dating'?"
"Well, I guess you could call it a courtship ritual." She clarified. "In my world, when two people want to see if they're suited as a couple they go on dates. It often involves going out to places where they can have fun getting acquainted…usually somewhere they can eat, drink and talk."
"Ah, I get it!" The bandit's engaging grin appeared in full force. "Ya mean, just like what you an' me were doin' last night!"
Miaka blinked at him, confounded by the observation. "Um… I don't know if that really qualified as a date…"
"Whaddaya mean?" Tasuki demanded indignantly. "We were spendin' the time talkin' an' gettin' acquainted, weren't we?"
"Yes, I guess we were..."
"An' as I recall, weren't we eatin' and drinkin'?"
Her mouth twitched in reluctant amusement. "Yes, we certainly were."
"An' if Chichiri hadn't come in, I would have kissed ya…" Thin, expressive eyebrows arched at her startled intake of breath. "What? Isn't kissin' part of a date too?"
Once again, Miaka found herself floundering for an answer. "Well, yes, s-sometimes, but as you pointed out, we had been drinking and-"
She broke off, growing flustered at the sight of her seishi steadily closing the distance between them. What had happened here? The entire situation was fast spiraling out of her control and she had no idea of what would happen next, or what she should do about it! Tasuki, on the other hand, seemed to know exactly where all of it was leading- a reversal of roles that she would have found funny if she hadn't been so nervous.
"Don't gimme any of that 'it was th' booze that made ya wanna do it' crap!" He stated with deliberate roughness. "I knew damn well what I was doin' last night, an' so did you!"
He almost looks angry! What does he want from me? Miaka battled an urge to step back as her seishi took another step forward, her chin lifting in unconscious defiance of her fears. "Well, what else am I supposed to think," she retorted, "after all of the times you told me you hate women?"
To her surprise, Tasuki's expression softened. "Yeah, I guess I did say that a lot, didn't I?" He acknowledged, in a much milder tone. "It don't matter how many times I said it though...'cause you've always been the exception to that, Mi-chan."
"I...I have?" She stared at him, astounded that he'd admitted to it, and wondering why he had. "Always?"
The corners of the bandit seishi's mouth turned upwards at her befuddlement. "Hell yeah! An' last night I finally figured out why that's so."
He had stopped moving, now standing so close that she had to tip her head back to look into his face. What she saw there made her tummy turn somersaults and her limbs go weak with anticipation.
"Why then?" She murmured compulsively. "Why am I the 'exception'?"
Tasuki hesitated, looking unusually nervous, his throat working as he swallowed. His chest rose and fell as he took a deep breath.
"It's 'cause I'm in love with ya, Mi-chan."
Simple words, plainly spoken. Life's blood.
Miaka's heart thundered in her breast. In that moment, lighting could have struck her and she couldn't have been more shocked. Though she had been prepared to confess her love for him, she hadn't truly dared to believe that Tasuki would hold those same kind of feelings for her- much less admit to having them-and never would she have dreamed that hearing him admit it would make everything in her life seem whole and right again.
Her mouth opened. She had to tell him how she felt, but emotion had clogged her throat and the words wouldn't come.
"It's all right- ya don't have to say nothin' back." He said, clearly misunderstanding the reason for her silence. "I know ya probably aren't ready t' hear that from someone else until you find out about Tama…but I thought I should be honest about it after what almost happened between us." Bitter sincerity glistened in his eyes. "No matter what you say and how ya feel, I will always love and protect ya! But still, if I don't have chance in hell to be with you, I'd rather ya just said so right now."
Miaka wet lips that had gone dry from nerves and excitement. Tasuki was giving her an out- if it were her wish, he'd do the noble thing and put his feelings aside out of respect for her remaining feelings for Tamahome. It was a chivalrous thing to do, and unselfish, and so very like him…but it wasn't what she wanted!
The moment of truth had come. It was time to quit feeling guilty, it was time to stop cutting herself off from love. Old habits died hard, but for Tasuki, she'd gladly abandon them. If doing so meant cramming a lifetime of love into just a few days, then so be it. She'd live every one of those days to their fullest. And deep down, she knew what Chichiri had said was right; if he'd known he couldn't be with her himself, Tamahome would have been the first one to say 'please be happy', as she would have for him, had she known...
"Tamahome was my very first love, and I will always cherish that love." She said slowly. "But as a woman... I love you, Tasuki."
The bandit's face came alight, more than a match for the warm sunshine pouring into the room. "You...you do?"
"Yes, I do!" She replied, giving him a radiant smile. "I think I knew from the moment I saw you last night... and even now, though I know how it will have to end, I don't want to stop…" The smile wavered, then fell away from her mouth. "I don't care about the dang rules! Even if we can only be together for a short time, having sweet memories of you is far better than not having any at all!"
Sun browned hands lifted to cup her face. "It's not gonna end up like that for us, Miaka. I'll make sure of it!"
"Oh Tasuki..." The Priestess of Suzaku bowed her head, and then looked up with an expression full of tender anguish. "Not even you can guarantee that kind of outcome."
Amber eyes blazed with purpose as they stared into hers. "Oh yeah? Just watch me!"
Everything about the bandit seishi radiated a powerful conviction, and simply looking at him made it very easy for Miaka to discard fear and denial. She believed in Tasuki, trusted that he would do everything in his power to keep his word. If anyone could make the impossible come true, he would be the one.
She yielded happily to his touch as his hands left her face to find her waist, then slid around to the small of her back to pull her closer. In return, her hands came up to rest upon the twin curves of his pectorals, looking ivory pale against his tanned flesh. He felt warm and wonderful, so delightfully smooth and hard, and she adored the way his pebble sized nipples responded to her touch by poking into her palms. She rubbed them lightly, and felt a thrill go through her at the low, pleasured sound he made.
It had been such a long time since she'd felt this in tune with another person...she could sense Tasuki's excitement rising in tandem with hers, feel the heat rolling off his body, smell the faint spicy sandalwood scent that clung to his skin. His breathing was as rapid and shallow as hers, and his heart hammered away with hard, quick strokes beneath her fingers, perfectly in time with her own.
"Hey there, Odango." He whispered teasingly.
She smiled up at him, feeling pleasantly flushed and feverish. "Hey there, Fang Boy."
He grinned and moved even closer, bringing his mouth within inches of hers. "Time for the kissin' part now," he murmured, his breath caressing her lips. "Is that okay?"
The simmering ardor in his tone wooed her, while his eyes beguiled her with sensual promises. Miaka whispered her affirmation, and then closed her eyes in blissful anticipation as one of Tasuki's hands glided up her back to grasp the mass of hair at the nape of her neck. He gently tugged on it to tilt her face upwards…and then his mouth claimed hers, blotting out everything save for the sweet, sweet taste of desire.
He had intended to give her the kind of kiss that would make her forget about everything except him, but instead he found that he was the one who was in danger of losing his head. She was his world, his purpose, and his reason for being. He had always known that, but this new, intensely physical connection with her made him feel it with a passion that shook him to the core. A kiss alone couldn't convey the depth of his feelings for the Priestess of Suzaku.
His enraptured senses took note of everything about her. Strands of auburn hair tickled his arm and teased his fingers. He drew in a breath and a subtle perfume wrapped around him, mixed with her own womanly scent. She smelled like honeysuckle, felt as supple as silk. Her mouth was incredible; lush, moist and welcoming, and tasted far better than the finest sake he'd ever consumed. Her hands fluttered over his chest, arousing him with light- as-a-butterfly caresses. In response, his own hand made a gentle fist in her hair, holding her head captive as his mouth moved over hers with increasing fervor.
Crimson flashed as his kanji symbol came to pulsating life, one more sign of the powerful feelings he held for Miaka. Impatient to get a fuller taste of her, he nudged her lips with his, and felt a thrill of satisfaction when they instantly submitted to his silent demand. As they parted, he quickly slipped his tongue into her mouth to seduce hers with swirling, silken caresses. She was shy at first, content to follow his lead. Then, gradually, she began to assert herself. Her mouth opened wider, her tongue swipes grew bolder. Her hands drifted to his sides, then around to his back where they hovered just above the swell of his buttocks, not daring to venture lower.
Tasuki smiled to himself. That hesitation was a testament to her innocence, and he wouldn't have had it any other way. It thrilled and humbled him beyond all reason that Miaka had chosen him to love, and to be the one to show her all the delights of physical love.
He couldn't wait to get started.
She murmured a protest when he broke off the kiss, but then sighed in delight as he nuzzled, nipped and kissed his way down the length of her throat. The hand on her back slipped to her side, and then roamed slowly up to a spot just under her breast and down again; the other left her hair, mimicking the actions of the first. He both heard and felt her sharp intake of air as his hands stroked her, and felt a warm surge of encouragement when she expelled a breath in a quiet moan.
Acting on instinct as to what might please her, he brushed his parted lips gently along the curve of her collarbone, while moving his thumbs in a languorous,back and forth motion along the undersides of her breasts. He could feel the outline of the contraption she called a bra, and knew a moment's frustration. Why couldn't she wear an undergarment he knew how to remove? Ah well, a small inconvenience like an uncooperative chest harness wasn't going to discourage him. So what if her breasts were covered? Hell, for what he had in mind, they wouldn't even be needed!
Nevertheless, they were much too full and tempting for him to completely ignore. His hands slid up to pay homage to the soft mounds, eliciting a low, sexy whimper that sent a fresh rush of blood to his sex. Ignoring the demands of his own flesh, he ran his tongue tip over the tendon at the base of her neck, and lightly nipped at it with his fangs as he palmed the sweet curves of flesh.
A louder moan resonated beneath his lips, and he smiled against her skin. Surprising, how gratifying it was to set his own urges aside in favor of satisfying hers.
And now, with that thought in mind...he would kneel to his lovely Priestess and worship her lovely body with his mouth and hands and tongue. It was the perfect solution to the time constraint under which Chichiri's impending return had placed them. It would leave him aching to have more of her, but that didn't matter; sometime in the last few moments, he'd decided that the first time should and would be all about her. After spending nine years of loneliness and heartache while she waited for love, Miaka deserved all the happiness and pleasure he could give to her!
He quickly debated whether to take her back to his futon, then rejected the idea. His loins were throbbing with the savage urge to fill and possess, and having her in that position would make it too easy for him to succumb to his desire. That delight would wait for another time when they wouldn't have to rush through the preliminaries to the act of love. Though he'd never been with a virgin, he knew that a woman's first time could be heaven or hell, and damn it, he was going to give Miaka heaven or else! If that meant he'd be suffering from a perpetual hard on for a little while, so be it.
Miaka watched from beneath heavy lids as her warrior dropped to his knees in front of her, then caught her breath as his hands found the backs of her thighs. "Tasuki…wha...what are you doing?"
He looked up at her, eyes smoldering beneath soot colored lashes. "Don't know a proper name for it," he replied with candor. "Guess I'll call it…'divin' for Miaka's peach'."
Before she could utter a single word of protest, he reached for the hem of her dress and pulled the material up around her waist, exposing creamy skin and shimmering pink silk panties to his burning gaze. She gasped, and then hurried to cover the telltale damp spot that had formed between her legs, but Tasuki waylaid her hand and pulled it away.
"Don't hide from me, Mi-chan!"
Green eyes stared at him from a face gone pink with mortification. "Why?" She whispered.
"Because I like seein' ya this way." He replied, in a gentler tone. "Knowin' that I can excite ya gets me even more so." He glanced down at himself, then back at her. "An' if ya don't believe that…take a look for yourself."
Miaka glanced down as frank curiosity overcame timidity. To her amazement, impressive proof of her seishi's words was straining against the cloth that presently confined it. Forgetting her self-consciousness for the moment, she stared at it, wondering what the hard, long ridge would look like when uncovered.
Tasuki remained motionless, patiently letting her look her fill.
"Just like you are th' way you are because of me, I'm this way because of you." He said, when her eyes finally met his. "There's no need t'be shy about it when we're together. Understand?"
She smiled a little, as her embarrassment faded. "Yes…I do." The hand not in his grasp reached out to smooth back a swatch of bangs that had fallen over one of his eyes. "And I promise not to be afraid to show you how I feel anymore."
Sensual heat flared in his gaze. "Then...are ya also willin' to let me do somethin' about it?"
Miaka stared down at her warrior for long moment, taking in his breathtaking beauty and strength. Tasuki's question both excited and scared her. For years she'd been waiting for a moment like this, thinking that it would happen with Tamahome and wrapped within in the bonds of matrimony. Even though she was aroused, in love, and eager to be with Tasuki, letting go of that dream wasn't going to be easy. Nevertheless, the fearof losing out on something that was certain to become a cherished memory was far stronger. Her choice was clear.
"Yes, Tasuki-kun." She whispered. "But only if you really want to."
"Yer damn straight, I want to!" He responded huskily. Fiery devotion blazed in his eyes as he brought the hand he held captive to his lips. Turning it over, he pressed a kiss into her palm before lowering it carefully to her side.
Then he turned his full attention to the pursuit of her pleasure.
Her fingertips swept along the arch of his shoulders, then moved up to his hair, delving into the thick mane in bliss as he nuzzled the triangle of curls above her hot center. When one of his hands moved to caress the inside of her thigh, her fingers curled into fists in his hair. When his hand slid upwards and his blunt fingertips delicately stroked around her outer folds, liquid heat spilled from her core. She couldn't stifle the sounds that poured from her lips, couldn't help throwing her head back and thrusting her hips at him. She craved his touch, ached to be taken by him. Her hands clutched him by his head and shoulders, wordlessly conveying her need as she tried to direct him to the knot of arousal tightening within her feminine cleft. Tasuki resisted her efforts, and she let out a groan of frustration. His teasing had her teetering on a finely honed edge. She was ready…no, she was more than ready for him.
"Ohhh… please…" She wiggled beneath his touches, eyes wild with need, begging him for something she did not quite understand. "Tasuki, please…"
"I know, baby, I know." He murmured soothingly. "Just relax … I'm gonna take care of ya."
Miaka shifted in agitation as one of his hands moved to nudge her thighs further apart. A loud, frantic moan poured from her lips her as she felt him stroking her slick folds with his thumb, and her hips jerked convulsively as he passed over a particularly sensitive area. Tasuki paused in his attentions to glance up at her, smiled in satisfaction at what he saw, and then resumed kissing and nibbling his way up to the place where his thumb was working sexual magic.
At the first touch of his tongue tip upon her sex, she cried out and arched her back, causing her dress to slip free and down over the bandit seishi's head. A muffled laugh vibrated against her sensitive flesh as she hastily yanked the material back up to her waist, and she looked down to see her lover surveying her with a wolfish smile.
"Felt good, did it?"
Still trying to catch her breath, she could only nod.
Amber eyes narrowed seductively. "Do ya want some more?"
She gave another quick jerk of the head.
"Good." Tasuki growled. "So do I."
The words drew her in like a moth to a flame. A soft, strangled sound escaped her as strong hands clamped onto her hips, keeping her securely anchored as his head dove between her spread legs.
His eager mouth wasted no time in locating the same bundle of nerves he'd found before. Miaka whimpered and twisted the material in her hands as she felt firm lips rubbing the stiff little nub, then gave a choked cry as his tongue emerged to tenderly lap at it. Her hips were undulating against his restraining hands, desperately seeking deeper contact as her eyes closed, then flew open again to drink in the erotic sight of a fiery head bobbing between her parted thighs.
Spirals of arousal spread from her belly to the hardened tips of her breasts. Her heart was pounding as hard as if she were running in a race, and her left knee had started to quiver uncontrollably, threatening to give way. It was detracting from her enjoyment but she didn't know what to do about it.
She needn't have worried. Amazingly, Tasuki had sensed her dilemma. Without so much as single break in the arousing rhythm he'd set for her, he lifted her left leg and draped it over him so that it was supported by his shoulder and back.
It wasn't long before she realized that her new position also gave him better access to her nether region, and that Tasuki intended to take full advantage of the situation. The pulsing light from his celestial birthmark bathed her inner thighs in a rosy red glow as he moved his hand to her center. Gently, tenderly, he dipped one finger into her molten core, and then a second, moving them in tandem as his tongue began to lash her with increased vigor.
New and incredible sensations ripped through her body, and she fell back against the wall for extra support. The fire that had been kindled within her was building to a white-hot blaze- a blaze that was fueled by far more than physical need. Tasuki's honesty and extraordinary selflessness had overcome all of the formidable defenses she had built against loving someone new… and in return, his love had filled the huge void in her heart. No one else had ever made her feel this good, or this wanted. His kisses and caresses consumed her, bound her tightly to him, heart, body and soul.
Just the mere thought of that bond was bringing her close to the peak.
Muscles tightened, and multiple sensations coalesced into a single ball of need. Her head began to thrash back and forth against the wall as the thick fragrance of her desire gushed forth in a wave. Tasuki's hands were back on her hips, pinning them securely in place as his mouth took possession of her feminine core. Rendered helpless under his sensual onslaught, she moaned his name between gasps, bucking and straining against his hold as his tongue and facile lips coaxed and tugged her towards ecstasy. There was no turning back, no escape from the inevitable. Nothing existed for her except the feel of a warm mouth and calloused hands, and the unbearable tension spiraling within her loins...she was burning up…so hot…so ready to explode…
She stiffened, then arched, her head tipping back to let a throttled cry of release bounce off the ceiling of the room. Pleasure, pure and unfettered, spilled from her center like molten lava from a volcano and she surrendered completely to it, riding out the crest, allowing it to carry her along until nothing was left. Tasuki rode it along with her, determinedly pushing the limits of her pleasure as far as he could, in every way he knew how. Then, at last, when intense sensation had subsided to softly pulsing aftershocks, Miaka sagged back against the wall, reduced to a trembling, weak-kneed mass of satiated flesh.
Basking in the aftermath of spent passion, she barely stirred as her lover continued to nuzzle her. When she felt his mouth and hands withdraw from her body, however, she managed to summon a heartfelt objection.
Mercifully, they were only parted for the time it took the bandit seishi to get to his feet.
Their gazes locked, eyes silently reaffirming their newly discovered love as Tasuki drew her into the circle of his arms. Tipping her face up with a hand, he bent his head to administer a slow, open-mouthed kiss that made her feel as if they were melting into one being. Miaka released her hold on the rolled up dress to wind her arms around his neck. The scent and taste of her was on his lips and tongue, but she didn't mind. How could she mind a little thing like that when he had just made her happier than she'd been for years?
After their mouths parted, she swayed a bit, still wobbly from the effects of what had been done for her. The bandit seishi's encircling arms steadied her, and then tightened possessively as he regarded her with blatant, and very masculine, satisfaction. "You're lookin' a bit limp, Odango." He teased, giving her a wicked grin. "Ya better hang on t' me until ya get your legs back."
With a lazy smile she obeyed...and promptly let out a cry of dismay as she felt his still-hardened flesh pressing into the lower part of her belly. "Tasuki, forgive me! I haven't done a thing to make you happy!"
To her astonishment, the seishi of fire simply smiled and shook his head. "There's nothin' to forgive. This time was for you, an' I'm happy with that."
Her eyes misted at the tenderness that glowed in his. "But it's not fair-"
Her protest was stifled with a masterful kiss and a softly growled promise.
"No need to look so sad, Miaka-chan. This is just the beginnin'."
At first glance the scene seemed completely innocent, but the monk didn't put much stock in first impressions. A second look produced some interesting details; Miaka's hair now tumbled wildly about her face, her dress had acquired some very interesting wrinkles, and only a totally blind man could miss how brightly the Priestess' green eyes shone every time she looked at Tasuki. In return, the bandit seishi was looking at Miaka as if he'd rather be eating her than the food she insisted on serving him. The chi levels swirling around him only added to the mystery. Tasuki's was jagged and elevated, but Miaka's had subsided to a tranquil, smooth pulse.
Chichiri found himself pondering the situation as he set down his shakajou and bundles. Something had to have happened to Miaka to effect such a change…but if the two of them had done anything shouldn't both of them be relaxed? What could have gone on that would have produced such an uneven balance?
Unfortunately, the only answer that occurred to him brought on a such strong reaction in his own body, he was forced to sit down, grab a breakfast plate to cover his lap and start piling food on it with a haste unbecoming to a disciplined monk. Luckily for him, Tasuki and Miaka were too wrapped up in conversation to notice.
I must stop obsessing about it. He told himself sternly. It was really none of his business, and besides that, his personal vow of penitence included forsaking carnal knowledge of women. Merely thinking about sex could end up getting him into trouble, therefore, it would be the best thing for all of them if he kept his insatiable curiosity in check...
To be continued!
AN: Thank you so much to all who have taken the time to read and review this story.
Best wishes,
KittyLynne
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Written by: KittyLynne
Legal disclaimer: I don't own the rights to Fushigi Yuugi or its characters; they belong to the immensely talented Y Watase. I do claim the rights to the original elements of plot and characterization in this tale, as well as the narrative and dialogue. Any reproduction of this story in any form without my written consent will be regarded as theft and plagiarism, and will be dealt with accordingly.
Japanese words to know:
Odango: Chinese dumpling, also a slang term that refers to the twin bun hairstyle that Miaka wore during most of her time in the Universe of the Four Gods book.
Kuso: 'shit'
Author's notes: NC-17 rated for sensuality, adult situations/conversation and cussing. Unspoken thoughts are in italics. Spoilers for TV series warning. Again, keep in mind that the events portrayed in the second OVA series haven't happened. Thanks to my hubby, a.k.a. The Bandit, for editing this chapter for me, and for his suggestion of a certain key phrase.
Chapter Two: A Touch of Fire
Miaka awoke to the dawning light of a new day and the dewy caress of a morning breeze upon her heated skin. Yawning widely, she indulged in a luxurious stretch, and then watched in sleepy-eyed wonder as the creeping light of the sun banished the shadows around her. As her surroundings were gradually revealed, languor fled and she bolted upright.
It wasn't a dream! I'm back in Konan!
A soft, rhythmic chanting had begun somewhere outside her cocoon of blankets. The Priestess listened intently, and then smiled in recognition of the cadence and pitch of the voice. After the emotional and physical upheaval she'd experienced in the last twenty four hours, it warmed and comforted her to hear Chichiri reciting his morning prayers to Suzaku, a ritual he'd performed on the previous journeys they'd taken together.
So Chiri-kun was awake...but what of Tasuki?
Miaka stared at the thin screen that separated her from the bandit warrior, her breathing quickening as memories of the previous times they'd shared quarters flooded her mind. She'd always enjoyed watching him sleep during their travels together-in part because of the uninhibited way he took over a bed, but mostly because he looked so atypically sweet and angelic in slumber. It had been a fun and innocent pastime to watch him like that, back when she hadn't seen him as the man he truly was. Now that she did... those memories took on a much deeper meaning and a distinctly sensual hue.
Last night she had longed for Tasuki to kiss her. Her acute disappointment that he hadn't had brought on a restless night, filled with dreams of him that had gone far beyond fulfilling that simple wish. Her body still thrummed with remembered arousal as it recalled the sensations her fiery dream lover had invoked. Even when awake, she could still imagine herself touching him, kissing him, wrapping her legs around him as he made them one …
Taking a deep, shuddering inhalation of air, Miaka fought hard for control. The last thing she should want was to get swept up in pursuing another unattainable fantasy- after all, who knew better than she that living a dream wasn't possible, even in the book world? Misery clawed at her gut at the thought, banishing the flickering glow of arousal. Once bitten, twice shy…wasn't that how the old saying went? How could she even think of going down that dead end road a second time? It was crazy. There was no future in loving one of her seishi. It would make no difference if he returned the sentiment. Even if they coupled, it was inevitable that they would be forced to part, and she would have to return to her world, alone, just like it had happened with Tamahome.
And yet…even knowing the pain and heartache that breaking the rules would bring, an incurably optimistic part of her was rising to the surface, shouting that love was always worth the risk, that she was strong enough to overcome the hurt, and that she wouldn't regret taking a chance if it meant experiencing all the pleasures of loving a man like Tasuki.
A bittersweet smile touched the Priestess' lips. If Keisuke were here, he'd say, 'the more things change, the more they stay the same'.
During their precious times together in the book, she had clung to hope and Tamahome with the thought that if their relationship was meant to be, Suzaku would end up granting her secret wish to stay in Konan, and if it wasn't, at least she would have made the most of every moment spent with her beloved.
There was no doubt that she had grown tremendously as a person in loving Tamahome. Her feelings for him had given purpose and focus during a troubled time in her life, had forced her to see the big picture lying beyond her own insular world, and had put her petty teenage problems in perspective. As much as it had hurt to let him go, the times she had spent with him had been worth every painful moment, and had become treasured memories. Now that she was older, sadder, and wiser, she could still honestly say she held no regrets about having loved him, and that she was grateful for having had the experience.
Loving Tamahome back then helped me to grow up…maybe loving Tasuki now will help me become the woman I want to be.
Miaka hugged her drawn up knees to her chest as she admitted the truth to herself. The simple fact was that her heart had always ruled her head, and would continue to do so. The same heart that had loved Tamahome was now yearning for Tasuki and all he had to offer, conventional wisdom be damned. The only unknown she faced now was whether or not he felt the same, or if what he had done and said last night was only the result of fond nostalgia and too much sake.
Unconsciously, she touched her hand, recalling the tender touch of Tasuki's lips and the intense way he'd looked at her. He had initiated the almost kiss, had seemed in perfect control of his actions…but what it had it all meant? There was only one way to find out for sure; she had to confront Tasuki and confess her feelings for him. Although Keisuke had warned her to avoid taking unnecessary chances, this was different. This was about life and being able to live it full out- something she hadn't been able to do for many years.
Brother dear, please forgive me, but I'll always take risks for the sake of true love.
As the chants of the seishi monk faded to a murmured benediction, Miaka tossed aside her covers and scrambled out of bed to prepare for what she knew would be one of the most momentous days in her life.
__________
Tasuki flopped onto his back and put an arm across his eyes to block out the light slanting across his pillow. It was an exercise in futility of course; sleeping was no longer an option now that he knew Miaka was awake and moving around.He tried not to listen to the erotic sounds of her disrobing and dressing again, but it was to no avail. Almost immediately, memories of a scantily clad Miaka standing tall and proud in the Caverns of Genbu floated into his mind-the first time he'd gotten more than a partial glimpse of her beautiful breasts. They had been surprisingly full, with erect nipples that poked out enticingly beneath her silk undergarment. He'd saved her life then, burning and melting the ice serpents that were threatening to freeze the life out of her. He'd earned her heartfelt thanks and a smile that had done wonders for his morale, but after all was said and done, Little Ghost had been the one who had gotten to grope her…
A sudden flash of color brought his reminiscing to an abrupt halt as his celestial mark blazed to life. Mouthing silent curses, he quickly doused the light with a hand and then flung himself over onto his stomach in hopes of suppressing the stirring in his loins. It didn't work. The ache only increased its demands to be assuaged. Relieving it himself wasn't an option with Miaka and Chichiri around, so he went with the only possible option. Gritting his teeth, he replaced the sexy and sultry image of Miaka with one of a buck naked, loudly cackling Taiits-kun.
Ah yes, instant deflation. That was better. Now that he had gotten his rebellious body back under control, he could think about Miaka some more.
She was special. It was true that he'd wanted other women before- and had had his share- but with this woman, his viewpoint was entirely different. In a drunken, maudlin moment, Kouji had once told him that there was a huge difference between fucking and making love… and now he finally understood exactly what his best friend had meant. His feelings for Miaka definitely ran deeper than the simple, primal urge to mate.
Physical desire wasn't the source of the pleasure he took in having Miaka near to him, in listening to her speak or watching her smile, and in doing things to impress or please her. For the very first time in his life, he wanted to make a woman happy in every way he knew how. For the first time in his life, he actually yearned for the chance to show a woman how much he cared for her, without giving a damn about the possible consequences of doing so.
Just why the hell was that? What were these strange, exhilarating feelings all about, anyway?
He'd pondered those questions well into the wee hours of the morning, and finally came to the world shaking realization that it was because he'd fallen in love with Miaka. After getting over the shock, he was presented with another conundrum- how and when to tell her. It definitely wasn't in his make up to be bashful and tongue-tied, but apparently love could make him worry about stupid little things like what words to use, how to say them, and at what time that they should be said. It also made him fret over whether the feelings would be requited or not. True, last night she'd made it obvious that she'd wanted a kiss, but that was no guarantee she would be willing to accept anything from him in the broad light of day. It could have been the booze talking. It could have simply been an emotional reaction from being reunited with her old friends again. Hell, for all he knew, he might have been only a stand in for Tamahome!
Tasuki scowled. For some unknown reason, Chichiri had wanted the subject of Tamahome left alone. Last night he had humored his friend's whim, but today was another matter entirely. Whether the monk approved of it or not, he was going to find out how and where Tama fit into Miaka's life. Not knowing if or when her stay in this world would end made reaching that objective all the more urgent. Time was too short and too damn precious for him to be subtle in pursuing the truth.
A soft, rhythmic stroking noise began on the other side of the wall, providing a pleasant distraction from his angst riddled thoughts. The bandit seishi's face softened and a smile curved his lips as he put a name to the sound. Miaka was brushing her hair; fifty strokes on each side, if memory served. On their previous travels, he had secretly enjoyed watching her do her hair. It was a beautiful color, so shiny and soft, made for a man to wrap around his fingers…to bury his face in, as she writhed in pleasure beneath him…
Kuso! Hard as a damn rock once again, and this time even a Taiits-kun scenario wouldn't be of help! He'd had enough of letting Miaka go, be it in his fantasies or in real life. He wanted her for keeps, in his bed, his heart and his life...and come hell or high water, he was going to do something about it!
_____________
When Miaka emerged from behind the screen, Chichiri was in the process of folding up his prayer mat and setting it off to one side of the open window. She offered him a soft 'good morning', and he returned it with a smile, his lone eye sparkling with warmth and deep affection.They made small talk, and then Miaka raised the subject of their impending journey to Sairo. She was surprised to learn that he and Tasuki had arranged to make the trip on horseback. When she inquired as to why, the monk told her that the Empress had thought it best for them not to use magic, and because Tasuki had flatly refused to go by boat.
Miaka hid a smile. Apparently some things never changed.
"I'm certain the Empress Dowager would change her mind about my using the kasa when she hears that you've returned, no da," Chichiri added thoughtfully. "She'd want to take steps to insure your safety while you're here."
Miaka's heart dropped at the mention of an official escort. "In that case, Chiri-kun, I 'd rather that you and Tasuki didn't tell anyone else that I've returned."
The monk gave her a perplexed look. "May I ask why, no da?"
"I don't want that kind of fuss and distraction right now," she replied honestly. "You see, my reason for returning is because of-"
"Tamahome."
The name cut through the air like a thrown dagger. Miaka jerked in surprise as a half-clad Tasuki emerged from behind his screen and stepped into the rays of light streaming through the open window. All other thoughts fled as she gaped at him in mute admiration, transfixed by the way the sun's rays turned his hair into a halo of fire, and bathed his muscular torso in a pale, erotic wash of gold.
Her gaze lowered as he moved forward, taking note of how his pants pulled taut with every step, outlining the enticing mound swaying between his lean hips and strong thighs. Her breathing suspended, and then resumed in a soft whoosh of air. Every nerve ending she had was honed to razor sharp awareness of the man in front of her. When he came to a slow halt a body's length away, her gaze skittered back up to his face. Exotic eyes, glittering with suppressed emotion, stared unblinkingly into hers as he spoke.
"Am I right, Miaka? Are ya here because of Tamahome?"
"Um…" Overwhelmed by his sensual, masculine beauty, she struggled for an answer.
"Tasuki, I don't think it's a very good time for this discussion, no da." Chichiri told his friend reprovingly.
"When is it ever a good time?" The redhead shot back. "We can't go on avoidin' the subject forever, and besides, I think as his fellow seishi, we got the right t'know!"
"You could have waited until after breakfast, no da!"
"If I had, you'd probably find another stupid reason not t'talk about it!"
Miaka cringed as her seishi continued to squabble. It was true that she wasn't keen to tackle the subject right off the bat, but the last thing she wanted was to cause trouble between her friends. "It's okay," she said quietly, drawing both men's attention at once. "Please don't fight. I should have been straight with you both last night as to why I'm here." Regret glistened in her eyes at the thought of having been the cause of dissension. "You're right, Tasuki. I've come back because of Tamahome."
A deep silence followed her pronouncement.
"So where th' hell is he?" Tasuki inquired at last, looking as if he dreaded the answer.
"That's exactly what I've been asking!" A mirthless laugh escaped Miaka's throat. "When we had to part for the last time, Tamahome swore that he'd find a way back to my world, but so far, I have no idea if he was able to do it. All I know is that after nine years of waiting and wondering if he'll ever find me, I need to find out what happened to him. Even if the truth hurts, it's still better than not knowing."
Tasuki blew out a long, quiet breath. "Why didn't ya say somethin' about this last night, Miaka?" He asked tautly. "Didn't ya think we'd understand? Didn't ya think we'd help ya?"
"No, that's not it." Heat crept into her cheeks as she explained. "It was because last night… was the first time in a long while that I've felt truly happy. Usually I feel this tremendous sense of guilt when I'm around men in a social way, but since you were close friends to Tamahome, I felt I could laugh and enjoy myself without feeling guilty. It's been years since I've been able to do that… and I didn't want the feeling taken away from me."
Tasuki's eyes widened, but for once he seemed to have nothing to say.
"You aren't socializing in your world, no da?" Chichiri asked in surprise. Miaka had always made friends so easily- he couldn't imagine her living such a solitary life for so long.
His priestess nodded. "There was a time when I used to go out regularly with Yui and a couple of other girlfriends, but it's gotten more difficult the older we get." She replied softly. "They're too busy with their families and careers to be able to go out on a regular basis, and to be honest…on the rare occasions that we have gone out lately, I haven't really had fun with them. They all have husbands and babies they love talking about, which emphasizes that I'm still alone, and still waiting." Miaka bowed her head. "I should be grateful that I had a great love in my life but lately, it seems that all I can think of is what I no longer have, and I'm not sure that Tamahome was the one who was meant for me. I know it's horribly selfish to think that way, but…"
"It's not selfish! You have the right to choose who you want to love and when, no da. " Chichiri injected firmly. "And furthermore, I think- no, I'm sure Tamahome would have wanted you to live your life to its fullest potential, even if it wasn't with him!"
"Damn straight! Tama wanted ya t' be happy, no matter what!" Tasuki concurred. "He wouldn't want to see ya lockin' yourself away like a damn hermit! It ain't healthy!"
Miaka looked up to meet the compassionate gazes of her seishi. Tears welled up in her eyes, as waves of emotion threatened to sweep away her composure. It was so wonderful have the support of her warriors again, and to know their loyalty to her had remained unconditional and steadfast. "Thank you both for understanding," she murmured, bowing and blinking away the telltale tears at the same time. "Thank you so much."
"We're your friends, dammit," the bandit said gruffly. "We want ya t'be happy too."
"That's right, no da. We do. " Chichiri agreed, stepping forward to envelop her in a warm hug. Tasuki glared at his brother seishi but then looked away, unwilling to say anything that would deprive Miaka of the comfort she needed.
After releasing their priestess, the monk slipped on his mask, which he produced with a wave of his fingers. "And now I think it's time I go put in an order for breakfast! I know you'll feel better after you eat, Miaka." The mask smiled cheerfully at her. "They will bring trays up to the room. It's best if you keep out of public gathering places like restaurants if you don't want the Empress to discover you're in Konan, no da."
She glanced down at the pale yellow t-shirt dress that she'd slipped on because it was both comfortable and becoming. By modern standards it was quite modest, but in this day and age where women were kept covered from head to foot, the style was bound to raise some ancient Chinese eyebrows. "That's a very good idea. I'm not exactly dressed to fit in around here, am I?"
"So what does that matter? Ya look great to me!"
Miaka felt her cheeks growing hot as Tasuki's gaze took her in from head to toe. "Thank you. You're very kind to say that."
The bandit seishi gave a half shrug as their eyes met. "It's not bein' kind. It's th' truth."
The unexpected compliment and honest admiration shining in his eyes threw her for a loop. At a loss for words, she looked away.
There was a short, awkward silence, and then Chichiri spoke. "I agree with Tasuki," he said calmly, "but if you don't want to attract attention, you'll need to dress like the locals, no da. After I order our breakfasts, I can make a quick trip over to the market to get some garments for you. When it's time to leave, we'll take you out the back way to the stables, no da."
"All right." Miaka smiled at the monk, then cast a startled glance at Tasuki, who had hurried over to give his friend a wince-inducing slap on the back.
"A kick ass plan, Chiri! Me an' Mi-chan will hang out here until ya get back."
Chichiri smirked as the younger seishi quickly retrieved his shakajou and stuffed it, along with the magical kesa, into the monk's empty hands. It was patently obvious that Tasuki couldn't wait to get Miaka all to himself, a fact that was punctuated by the bandit's cheerful farewell as he steered and nudged his brother warrior towards the exit.
And so it was, after a quick exchange of goodbyes with Miaka and a wild snatch for his discarded slippers, that the blue-haired seishi found himself planted on the opposite side of the thick wooden door. He set down and stepped into his slippers as it closed, then stood staring at the carved panels for several seconds, thinking hard.
Something extraordinary was brewing between Tasuki and Miaka, that much was certain. The smiles, lingering glances and frequent blushes all attested to a very mutual attraction, but the real proof was in the drastic elevation of their life forces. Those confirmed without a doubt that feelings of an intensely romantic nature were running deep, hot, and so strong that Chichiri feared he'd have to lower his own chi just to maintain a safe psychic balance in the room. Of course, that particular problem could also be solved by the two of them getting together physically. Sexual intercourse could be a very effective method for draining pent up chi, as well as for building it up… or so he'd been told. He'd always wondered if it were true…
All right, it was time to stop thinking that way, or he'd end up with a big problem of his own on his hands.
Blushing furiously, the monk hurried off to take care of his errands.
__________
As the door closed behind Chichiri, a curtain of silence fell between the room's remaining occupants.Outside the window Miaka could hear the strains of a city coming to life…but as far as she was concerned, her world had narrowed to a single room and the man standing in it. Tasuki was staring at her too, with an expression that suggested that he was trying to read her thoughts.
"Is…something wrong?" She finally asked, when the silence had stretched to the breaking point.
He blinked, and then smiled faintly. "Nah, not really. I was just thinkin' about you an' me... an' Tamahome."
A sense of expectancy now quivered between them, as if something was waiting for the right words to release it, but for the life of her, Miaka couldn't think of an appropriate response. She nervously tucked an errant strand of hair behind her ear, conscious that wolf-like eyes were closely following every movement she made.
After an awkward moment, her companion dragged a careless hand through his own hair, opened his mouth, hesitated, and then blurted, "I was just wonderin' what you're plannin' to do if we can't find Tama?"
It was a fair question, she supposed. Too bad she didn't have a definitive answer for it. "If it comes to the point that there's no hope of finding out what happened to him, I'll move on with my life." A barely audible sigh parted her lips. "I suppose I'll even get to the point where I can start dating again...eventually."
Tasuki's brow creased. "What's this...'dating'?"
"Well, I guess you could call it a courtship ritual." She clarified. "In my world, when two people want to see if they're suited as a couple they go on dates. It often involves going out to places where they can have fun getting acquainted…usually somewhere they can eat, drink and talk."
"Ah, I get it!" The bandit's engaging grin appeared in full force. "Ya mean, just like what you an' me were doin' last night!"
Miaka blinked at him, confounded by the observation. "Um… I don't know if that really qualified as a date…"
"Whaddaya mean?" Tasuki demanded indignantly. "We were spendin' the time talkin' an' gettin' acquainted, weren't we?"
"Yes, I guess we were..."
"An' as I recall, weren't we eatin' and drinkin'?"
Her mouth twitched in reluctant amusement. "Yes, we certainly were."
"An' if Chichiri hadn't come in, I would have kissed ya…" Thin, expressive eyebrows arched at her startled intake of breath. "What? Isn't kissin' part of a date too?"
Once again, Miaka found herself floundering for an answer. "Well, yes, s-sometimes, but as you pointed out, we had been drinking and-"
She broke off, growing flustered at the sight of her seishi steadily closing the distance between them. What had happened here? The entire situation was fast spiraling out of her control and she had no idea of what would happen next, or what she should do about it! Tasuki, on the other hand, seemed to know exactly where all of it was leading- a reversal of roles that she would have found funny if she hadn't been so nervous.
"Don't gimme any of that 'it was th' booze that made ya wanna do it' crap!" He stated with deliberate roughness. "I knew damn well what I was doin' last night, an' so did you!"
He almost looks angry! What does he want from me? Miaka battled an urge to step back as her seishi took another step forward, her chin lifting in unconscious defiance of her fears. "Well, what else am I supposed to think," she retorted, "after all of the times you told me you hate women?"
To her surprise, Tasuki's expression softened. "Yeah, I guess I did say that a lot, didn't I?" He acknowledged, in a much milder tone. "It don't matter how many times I said it though...'cause you've always been the exception to that, Mi-chan."
"I...I have?" She stared at him, astounded that he'd admitted to it, and wondering why he had. "Always?"
The corners of the bandit seishi's mouth turned upwards at her befuddlement. "Hell yeah! An' last night I finally figured out why that's so."
He had stopped moving, now standing so close that she had to tip her head back to look into his face. What she saw there made her tummy turn somersaults and her limbs go weak with anticipation.
"Why then?" She murmured compulsively. "Why am I the 'exception'?"
Tasuki hesitated, looking unusually nervous, his throat working as he swallowed. His chest rose and fell as he took a deep breath.
"It's 'cause I'm in love with ya, Mi-chan."
Simple words, plainly spoken. Life's blood.
Miaka's heart thundered in her breast. In that moment, lighting could have struck her and she couldn't have been more shocked. Though she had been prepared to confess her love for him, she hadn't truly dared to believe that Tasuki would hold those same kind of feelings for her- much less admit to having them-and never would she have dreamed that hearing him admit it would make everything in her life seem whole and right again.
Her mouth opened. She had to tell him how she felt, but emotion had clogged her throat and the words wouldn't come.
"It's all right- ya don't have to say nothin' back." He said, clearly misunderstanding the reason for her silence. "I know ya probably aren't ready t' hear that from someone else until you find out about Tama…but I thought I should be honest about it after what almost happened between us." Bitter sincerity glistened in his eyes. "No matter what you say and how ya feel, I will always love and protect ya! But still, if I don't have chance in hell to be with you, I'd rather ya just said so right now."
Miaka wet lips that had gone dry from nerves and excitement. Tasuki was giving her an out- if it were her wish, he'd do the noble thing and put his feelings aside out of respect for her remaining feelings for Tamahome. It was a chivalrous thing to do, and unselfish, and so very like him…but it wasn't what she wanted!
The moment of truth had come. It was time to quit feeling guilty, it was time to stop cutting herself off from love. Old habits died hard, but for Tasuki, she'd gladly abandon them. If doing so meant cramming a lifetime of love into just a few days, then so be it. She'd live every one of those days to their fullest. And deep down, she knew what Chichiri had said was right; if he'd known he couldn't be with her himself, Tamahome would have been the first one to say 'please be happy', as she would have for him, had she known...
"Tamahome was my very first love, and I will always cherish that love." She said slowly. "But as a woman... I love you, Tasuki."
The bandit's face came alight, more than a match for the warm sunshine pouring into the room. "You...you do?"
"Yes, I do!" She replied, giving him a radiant smile. "I think I knew from the moment I saw you last night... and even now, though I know how it will have to end, I don't want to stop…" The smile wavered, then fell away from her mouth. "I don't care about the dang rules! Even if we can only be together for a short time, having sweet memories of you is far better than not having any at all!"
Sun browned hands lifted to cup her face. "It's not gonna end up like that for us, Miaka. I'll make sure of it!"
"Oh Tasuki..." The Priestess of Suzaku bowed her head, and then looked up with an expression full of tender anguish. "Not even you can guarantee that kind of outcome."
Amber eyes blazed with purpose as they stared into hers. "Oh yeah? Just watch me!"
Everything about the bandit seishi radiated a powerful conviction, and simply looking at him made it very easy for Miaka to discard fear and denial. She believed in Tasuki, trusted that he would do everything in his power to keep his word. If anyone could make the impossible come true, he would be the one.
She yielded happily to his touch as his hands left her face to find her waist, then slid around to the small of her back to pull her closer. In return, her hands came up to rest upon the twin curves of his pectorals, looking ivory pale against his tanned flesh. He felt warm and wonderful, so delightfully smooth and hard, and she adored the way his pebble sized nipples responded to her touch by poking into her palms. She rubbed them lightly, and felt a thrill go through her at the low, pleasured sound he made.
It had been such a long time since she'd felt this in tune with another person...she could sense Tasuki's excitement rising in tandem with hers, feel the heat rolling off his body, smell the faint spicy sandalwood scent that clung to his skin. His breathing was as rapid and shallow as hers, and his heart hammered away with hard, quick strokes beneath her fingers, perfectly in time with her own.
"Hey there, Odango." He whispered teasingly.
She smiled up at him, feeling pleasantly flushed and feverish. "Hey there, Fang Boy."
He grinned and moved even closer, bringing his mouth within inches of hers. "Time for the kissin' part now," he murmured, his breath caressing her lips. "Is that okay?"
The simmering ardor in his tone wooed her, while his eyes beguiled her with sensual promises. Miaka whispered her affirmation, and then closed her eyes in blissful anticipation as one of Tasuki's hands glided up her back to grasp the mass of hair at the nape of her neck. He gently tugged on it to tilt her face upwards…and then his mouth claimed hers, blotting out everything save for the sweet, sweet taste of desire.
_____________
Tasuki knew he'd found heaven the moment his lips touched Miaka's.He had intended to give her the kind of kiss that would make her forget about everything except him, but instead he found that he was the one who was in danger of losing his head. She was his world, his purpose, and his reason for being. He had always known that, but this new, intensely physical connection with her made him feel it with a passion that shook him to the core. A kiss alone couldn't convey the depth of his feelings for the Priestess of Suzaku.
His enraptured senses took note of everything about her. Strands of auburn hair tickled his arm and teased his fingers. He drew in a breath and a subtle perfume wrapped around him, mixed with her own womanly scent. She smelled like honeysuckle, felt as supple as silk. Her mouth was incredible; lush, moist and welcoming, and tasted far better than the finest sake he'd ever consumed. Her hands fluttered over his chest, arousing him with light- as-a-butterfly caresses. In response, his own hand made a gentle fist in her hair, holding her head captive as his mouth moved over hers with increasing fervor.
Crimson flashed as his kanji symbol came to pulsating life, one more sign of the powerful feelings he held for Miaka. Impatient to get a fuller taste of her, he nudged her lips with his, and felt a thrill of satisfaction when they instantly submitted to his silent demand. As they parted, he quickly slipped his tongue into her mouth to seduce hers with swirling, silken caresses. She was shy at first, content to follow his lead. Then, gradually, she began to assert herself. Her mouth opened wider, her tongue swipes grew bolder. Her hands drifted to his sides, then around to his back where they hovered just above the swell of his buttocks, not daring to venture lower.
Tasuki smiled to himself. That hesitation was a testament to her innocence, and he wouldn't have had it any other way. It thrilled and humbled him beyond all reason that Miaka had chosen him to love, and to be the one to show her all the delights of physical love.
He couldn't wait to get started.
She murmured a protest when he broke off the kiss, but then sighed in delight as he nuzzled, nipped and kissed his way down the length of her throat. The hand on her back slipped to her side, and then roamed slowly up to a spot just under her breast and down again; the other left her hair, mimicking the actions of the first. He both heard and felt her sharp intake of air as his hands stroked her, and felt a warm surge of encouragement when she expelled a breath in a quiet moan.
Acting on instinct as to what might please her, he brushed his parted lips gently along the curve of her collarbone, while moving his thumbs in a languorous,back and forth motion along the undersides of her breasts. He could feel the outline of the contraption she called a bra, and knew a moment's frustration. Why couldn't she wear an undergarment he knew how to remove? Ah well, a small inconvenience like an uncooperative chest harness wasn't going to discourage him. So what if her breasts were covered? Hell, for what he had in mind, they wouldn't even be needed!
Nevertheless, they were much too full and tempting for him to completely ignore. His hands slid up to pay homage to the soft mounds, eliciting a low, sexy whimper that sent a fresh rush of blood to his sex. Ignoring the demands of his own flesh, he ran his tongue tip over the tendon at the base of her neck, and lightly nipped at it with his fangs as he palmed the sweet curves of flesh.
A louder moan resonated beneath his lips, and he smiled against her skin. Surprising, how gratifying it was to set his own urges aside in favor of satisfying hers.
And now, with that thought in mind...he would kneel to his lovely Priestess and worship her lovely body with his mouth and hands and tongue. It was the perfect solution to the time constraint under which Chichiri's impending return had placed them. It would leave him aching to have more of her, but that didn't matter; sometime in the last few moments, he'd decided that the first time should and would be all about her. After spending nine years of loneliness and heartache while she waited for love, Miaka deserved all the happiness and pleasure he could give to her!
He quickly debated whether to take her back to his futon, then rejected the idea. His loins were throbbing with the savage urge to fill and possess, and having her in that position would make it too easy for him to succumb to his desire. That delight would wait for another time when they wouldn't have to rush through the preliminaries to the act of love. Though he'd never been with a virgin, he knew that a woman's first time could be heaven or hell, and damn it, he was going to give Miaka heaven or else! If that meant he'd be suffering from a perpetual hard on for a little while, so be it.
Miaka watched from beneath heavy lids as her warrior dropped to his knees in front of her, then caught her breath as his hands found the backs of her thighs. "Tasuki…wha...what are you doing?"
He looked up at her, eyes smoldering beneath soot colored lashes. "Don't know a proper name for it," he replied with candor. "Guess I'll call it…'divin' for Miaka's peach'."
Before she could utter a single word of protest, he reached for the hem of her dress and pulled the material up around her waist, exposing creamy skin and shimmering pink silk panties to his burning gaze. She gasped, and then hurried to cover the telltale damp spot that had formed between her legs, but Tasuki waylaid her hand and pulled it away.
"Don't hide from me, Mi-chan!"
Green eyes stared at him from a face gone pink with mortification. "Why?" She whispered.
"Because I like seein' ya this way." He replied, in a gentler tone. "Knowin' that I can excite ya gets me even more so." He glanced down at himself, then back at her. "An' if ya don't believe that…take a look for yourself."
Miaka glanced down as frank curiosity overcame timidity. To her amazement, impressive proof of her seishi's words was straining against the cloth that presently confined it. Forgetting her self-consciousness for the moment, she stared at it, wondering what the hard, long ridge would look like when uncovered.
Tasuki remained motionless, patiently letting her look her fill.
"Just like you are th' way you are because of me, I'm this way because of you." He said, when her eyes finally met his. "There's no need t'be shy about it when we're together. Understand?"
She smiled a little, as her embarrassment faded. "Yes…I do." The hand not in his grasp reached out to smooth back a swatch of bangs that had fallen over one of his eyes. "And I promise not to be afraid to show you how I feel anymore."
Sensual heat flared in his gaze. "Then...are ya also willin' to let me do somethin' about it?"
Miaka stared down at her warrior for long moment, taking in his breathtaking beauty and strength. Tasuki's question both excited and scared her. For years she'd been waiting for a moment like this, thinking that it would happen with Tamahome and wrapped within in the bonds of matrimony. Even though she was aroused, in love, and eager to be with Tasuki, letting go of that dream wasn't going to be easy. Nevertheless, the fearof losing out on something that was certain to become a cherished memory was far stronger. Her choice was clear.
"Yes, Tasuki-kun." She whispered. "But only if you really want to."
"Yer damn straight, I want to!" He responded huskily. Fiery devotion blazed in his eyes as he brought the hand he held captive to his lips. Turning it over, he pressed a kiss into her palm before lowering it carefully to her side.
Then he turned his full attention to the pursuit of her pleasure.
_________
Moments later found Miaka leaning back against the wall for support, her dress tucked up behind her to keep it out of the way. Her panties were gone, tossed somewhere behind Tasuki after he'd removed them inch by tantalizing inch. At present, he was blowing, nuzzling, and kissing his way across her lower belly, while his hands squeezed and caressed the mounds of her bare buttocks. It was glorious! She loved the feeling of his hot breath on her skin, loved the leashed strength of his hands, loved that he was taking things slow for her sake.Her fingertips swept along the arch of his shoulders, then moved up to his hair, delving into the thick mane in bliss as he nuzzled the triangle of curls above her hot center. When one of his hands moved to caress the inside of her thigh, her fingers curled into fists in his hair. When his hand slid upwards and his blunt fingertips delicately stroked around her outer folds, liquid heat spilled from her core. She couldn't stifle the sounds that poured from her lips, couldn't help throwing her head back and thrusting her hips at him. She craved his touch, ached to be taken by him. Her hands clutched him by his head and shoulders, wordlessly conveying her need as she tried to direct him to the knot of arousal tightening within her feminine cleft. Tasuki resisted her efforts, and she let out a groan of frustration. His teasing had her teetering on a finely honed edge. She was ready…no, she was more than ready for him.
"Ohhh… please…" She wiggled beneath his touches, eyes wild with need, begging him for something she did not quite understand. "Tasuki, please…"
"I know, baby, I know." He murmured soothingly. "Just relax … I'm gonna take care of ya."
Miaka shifted in agitation as one of his hands moved to nudge her thighs further apart. A loud, frantic moan poured from her lips her as she felt him stroking her slick folds with his thumb, and her hips jerked convulsively as he passed over a particularly sensitive area. Tasuki paused in his attentions to glance up at her, smiled in satisfaction at what he saw, and then resumed kissing and nibbling his way up to the place where his thumb was working sexual magic.
At the first touch of his tongue tip upon her sex, she cried out and arched her back, causing her dress to slip free and down over the bandit seishi's head. A muffled laugh vibrated against her sensitive flesh as she hastily yanked the material back up to her waist, and she looked down to see her lover surveying her with a wolfish smile.
"Felt good, did it?"
Still trying to catch her breath, she could only nod.
Amber eyes narrowed seductively. "Do ya want some more?"
She gave another quick jerk of the head.
"Good." Tasuki growled. "So do I."
The words drew her in like a moth to a flame. A soft, strangled sound escaped her as strong hands clamped onto her hips, keeping her securely anchored as his head dove between her spread legs.
His eager mouth wasted no time in locating the same bundle of nerves he'd found before. Miaka whimpered and twisted the material in her hands as she felt firm lips rubbing the stiff little nub, then gave a choked cry as his tongue emerged to tenderly lap at it. Her hips were undulating against his restraining hands, desperately seeking deeper contact as her eyes closed, then flew open again to drink in the erotic sight of a fiery head bobbing between her parted thighs.
Spirals of arousal spread from her belly to the hardened tips of her breasts. Her heart was pounding as hard as if she were running in a race, and her left knee had started to quiver uncontrollably, threatening to give way. It was detracting from her enjoyment but she didn't know what to do about it.
She needn't have worried. Amazingly, Tasuki had sensed her dilemma. Without so much as single break in the arousing rhythm he'd set for her, he lifted her left leg and draped it over him so that it was supported by his shoulder and back.
It wasn't long before she realized that her new position also gave him better access to her nether region, and that Tasuki intended to take full advantage of the situation. The pulsing light from his celestial birthmark bathed her inner thighs in a rosy red glow as he moved his hand to her center. Gently, tenderly, he dipped one finger into her molten core, and then a second, moving them in tandem as his tongue began to lash her with increased vigor.
New and incredible sensations ripped through her body, and she fell back against the wall for extra support. The fire that had been kindled within her was building to a white-hot blaze- a blaze that was fueled by far more than physical need. Tasuki's honesty and extraordinary selflessness had overcome all of the formidable defenses she had built against loving someone new… and in return, his love had filled the huge void in her heart. No one else had ever made her feel this good, or this wanted. His kisses and caresses consumed her, bound her tightly to him, heart, body and soul.
Just the mere thought of that bond was bringing her close to the peak.
Muscles tightened, and multiple sensations coalesced into a single ball of need. Her head began to thrash back and forth against the wall as the thick fragrance of her desire gushed forth in a wave. Tasuki's hands were back on her hips, pinning them securely in place as his mouth took possession of her feminine core. Rendered helpless under his sensual onslaught, she moaned his name between gasps, bucking and straining against his hold as his tongue and facile lips coaxed and tugged her towards ecstasy. There was no turning back, no escape from the inevitable. Nothing existed for her except the feel of a warm mouth and calloused hands, and the unbearable tension spiraling within her loins...she was burning up…so hot…so ready to explode…
She stiffened, then arched, her head tipping back to let a throttled cry of release bounce off the ceiling of the room. Pleasure, pure and unfettered, spilled from her center like molten lava from a volcano and she surrendered completely to it, riding out the crest, allowing it to carry her along until nothing was left. Tasuki rode it along with her, determinedly pushing the limits of her pleasure as far as he could, in every way he knew how. Then, at last, when intense sensation had subsided to softly pulsing aftershocks, Miaka sagged back against the wall, reduced to a trembling, weak-kneed mass of satiated flesh.
Basking in the aftermath of spent passion, she barely stirred as her lover continued to nuzzle her. When she felt his mouth and hands withdraw from her body, however, she managed to summon a heartfelt objection.
Mercifully, they were only parted for the time it took the bandit seishi to get to his feet.
Their gazes locked, eyes silently reaffirming their newly discovered love as Tasuki drew her into the circle of his arms. Tipping her face up with a hand, he bent his head to administer a slow, open-mouthed kiss that made her feel as if they were melting into one being. Miaka released her hold on the rolled up dress to wind her arms around his neck. The scent and taste of her was on his lips and tongue, but she didn't mind. How could she mind a little thing like that when he had just made her happier than she'd been for years?
After their mouths parted, she swayed a bit, still wobbly from the effects of what had been done for her. The bandit seishi's encircling arms steadied her, and then tightened possessively as he regarded her with blatant, and very masculine, satisfaction. "You're lookin' a bit limp, Odango." He teased, giving her a wicked grin. "Ya better hang on t' me until ya get your legs back."
With a lazy smile she obeyed...and promptly let out a cry of dismay as she felt his still-hardened flesh pressing into the lower part of her belly. "Tasuki, forgive me! I haven't done a thing to make you happy!"
To her astonishment, the seishi of fire simply smiled and shook his head. "There's nothin' to forgive. This time was for you, an' I'm happy with that."
Her eyes misted at the tenderness that glowed in his. "But it's not fair-"
Her protest was stifled with a masterful kiss and a softly growled promise.
"No need to look so sad, Miaka-chan. This is just the beginnin'."
________
When a parcel-laden Chichiri finally returned to the room almost an hour after he had left it, he made sure to knock politely. Relief filled him when an immediate summons came from within, and he entered the room to find Miaka and a fully dressed Tasuki chatting happily as they dug into the delicious looking breakfast that had been delivered in his absence.At first glance the scene seemed completely innocent, but the monk didn't put much stock in first impressions. A second look produced some interesting details; Miaka's hair now tumbled wildly about her face, her dress had acquired some very interesting wrinkles, and only a totally blind man could miss how brightly the Priestess' green eyes shone every time she looked at Tasuki. In return, the bandit seishi was looking at Miaka as if he'd rather be eating her than the food she insisted on serving him. The chi levels swirling around him only added to the mystery. Tasuki's was jagged and elevated, but Miaka's had subsided to a tranquil, smooth pulse.
Chichiri found himself pondering the situation as he set down his shakajou and bundles. Something had to have happened to Miaka to effect such a change…but if the two of them had done anything shouldn't both of them be relaxed? What could have gone on that would have produced such an uneven balance?
Unfortunately, the only answer that occurred to him brought on a such strong reaction in his own body, he was forced to sit down, grab a breakfast plate to cover his lap and start piling food on it with a haste unbecoming to a disciplined monk. Luckily for him, Tasuki and Miaka were too wrapped up in conversation to notice.
I must stop obsessing about it. He told himself sternly. It was really none of his business, and besides that, his personal vow of penitence included forsaking carnal knowledge of women. Merely thinking about sex could end up getting him into trouble, therefore, it would be the best thing for all of them if he kept his insatiable curiosity in check...
To be continued!
AN: Thank you so much to all who have taken the time to read and review this story.
Best wishes,
KittyLynne
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