Chapter 9

Jennifer: (Wakes up rubbing her eye as she tries to remember what happened last night).  … What happened last night?

Chazz: (Knocks on Jennifer’s door asking her to get up).

Jennifer: Oh right… I will be right there!  (Remembers when she had kissed Chazz’s cheek when she hears him and blushes).

Chazz: Yes, I will be waiting.

Jennifer: (Puts her hand on her face whispering to herself).  Why did I do that?  Maybe he thought it was just me saying thank you then this would be less awkward.  (Grabs her stuff to get ready).

Hiki: (Yells from the other side of the door).  Come on milady, we have things to discuss!

Jennifer: Yes coming!  (Rushes over opening the door but still in her nightgown).

Chazz: Umm milady you still need to get dressed.

Jennifer: But you were rushing me!

Hiki: (Sticks her tongue out and then gives a look like she did nothing).  It wasn’t me.

Jennifer: Well, how do you expect me to get ready that fast?

Hiki: Run as fast as me you I can give you some light that lets you run as fast, well almost it should be gone by noon.

Jennifer: (Gives a grumpy look).  Well excuse me for not wanting to run.

Chazz: Well, take your time, we will wait.

Hiki: (Pouts a little but Chazz just pets her head, and she calms down).

Jennifer: I am sorry, I am just grumpy when I wake.  I will be in a better mood in about a hour.

Chazz: I know milady, it is fine.

Jennifer: Very well.  (Closes the door then goes into the closet to get changed and then yells out to Chazz).  Are we training this morning?  The sun is not quite up yet I believe.

Chazz: We can for a bit.

Jennifer: (Grabs her pants, shirt, and her bow).  Alright.

Hiki: I want to show you something cool.

Jennifer: Oh, what is it.  (Opens the door once she is ready).

Hiki: You will see outside.

Jennifer: Alright let’s go, oh Shizen do you want to come out too?  (Pauses as she listens).  She says she will when outside.  She would scare others to see a giant wolf in the hallway if someone were up.

Chazz: True, true well let us be on our way.

Jennifer: Indeed.  (Starts walking with Chazz and Hiki but then finds herself looking at Chazz wondering if she shouldn’t have kissed him on the cheek).

Chazz: (Notices Jennifer is staring at him).  Are you alright madam?

Jennifer: (Realizes she is staring at Chazz and looks away blushing).  Umm oh yes, I am fine.

Chazz: If you are sure then.

Jennifer: Yes.  (Glances at Hiki to see if she noticed and sees she has a huge smile on her face).

Hiki: So, milady how was your night.

Jennifer: It was interesting, I had to help Miss Amber change and get ready for bed.

Hiki: And how was that?  Did you see anything embarrassing?

Chazz: Hiki that is quite enough.

Jennifer: I tried looking away though she did wake up afterwards and we had a good talk.

Chazz: That is good that you two spoke.

Jennifer: Yes, she reminds me of Hiki in a way.

Chazz: Is that so, I see why you got along with her then.

Jennifer: Yes, she is nice though a little forward.

Chazz: I see.

Jennifer: Indeed.  (Makes it outside with everyone else).

Chazz: Alright let us begin to train.

Jennifer: Hold on, Hiki you said you had something to show me?

Hiki: Yes, I did though you may want to stand back.

Jennifer: What?

Shizen: (Appears behind Jennifer).  Do as she says Child.

Jennifer: But why?

Chazz: (Pulls Jennifer back a couple of feet).

Hiki: Alright here we go now.  (Pulls out her two swords and yells “holy fire” and suddenly her blades become covered in a white flame the surrounds her blades).

Shizen: (Raises her eyebrows in interest).  Hmm… Very impressive.

Jennifer: Is that real fire?

Hiki: No, it isn’t, it is a form of purification in the look of fire but can feel like it but doesn’t have the same properties.

Shizen: I have only seen it once before though I am not near light spirits often.

Jennifer: It still looks like fire.  (Looks a little scared and hesitant).

Shizen: You need to get over that fear child.

Hiki: It is fine Jenny; it isn’t real fire.

Jennifer: (Sighs in relief).  Good so what can you do with that ability.

Chazz: Well, she can do things sort of differently while holy fire is on.  She deals more damage to her enemies; besides that I don’t know any more since she had just learned it.

Jennifer: Oh wow.

Shizen: Perhaps you need to use the ability more to learn.  This would be a good time.

Hiki: Maybe.

Shizen: And I suppose you would need a person to use that ability on.

Hiki: No, no it is fine I want to try it with Tori.

Shizen: Very well.

Kairi: (watches in the shadows so she cannot be seen besides by Chazz and Tori who sees through the shadows).

Tori: What are you doing Kairi?

Kairi: (Stands up and pouts).  Aww you saw me.

Jennifer: What are you doing here?  It is too early to get up.

Kairi: Well, I umm.  (Pauses as she tries to think of an excuse).

Chazz: You wanted to train with everyone too, am I right milady?

Kairi: Y-yes but I do not think I can fight anyone here.

Chazz: Well, you could practice with your sister.

Jennifer: I would be happy to help.

Kairi: Alright but I only know support abilities.

Jennifer: That is alright, we can just take it one step at a time.

Chazz: Yes, you can.

Kairi: What do I do?

Chazz: Just spar for now and milady will help you with the rest.

Jennifer: Indeed, come on, I will help your swing let me see it.

Kairi: (Grabs her daggers).  Alright so I just attack… But I don’t want to hit and hurt my sister.

Jennifer: You won’t, don’t worry just take it slow.

Kairi: Alright I will try.  (Readies her dagger but a bit unsteadily).

Jennifer: It will be alright.  (Smiles as she readies her bow to block like it is a staff).

Chazz: Do you know how to handle your weapons Miss Kairi?

Kairi: Kura taught me how to use the throwing dagger things and Yami tried teaching me close range with a dagger, but I am not good at that yet.

Chazz: Interesting.

Jennifer: (Smirks).  Long range hmm I can help with that.

Shizen: Everyone has their strengths.

Jennifer: We can work on long range last.  Let’s work on close ranged for now.

Kairi: I will try.  (Hold the dagger).

Jennifer: Here let me help.  (Adjusts Kairi’s hold on the dagger).  Not a bad hold but the way you were holding it was more for throwing.

Chazz: Aim to handle your weapon at any moment.

Kairi: Thank you.  (Readies her dagger again).

Jennifer: Much better.  (Readies her bow to block and waits for Kairi to attack who hesitates but then swings clumsily as Jennifer steps aside).  You should change how you stand.  You have no balance that way, here.  (Moves Kairi’s legs so to separate them more and then pushes her a little Kairi staying in the same place).  See isn’t that better?

Chazz: Why not work on posture before combat.

Jennifer: Yes, I just wanted to see how she handled and attacked with her weapon.  Now it is a start, but it will take practice.

Kairi: I will try my best and practice when I can.  (Sighs as she takes a few swings checking a few times if she is standing right).

Jennifer: You will get it.

Chazz: Practice makes perfect.

Jennifer: Yes, it does.

Shizen: Hmm what about your element powers, have you been working on controlling it?

Kairi: Yes, I have but when I get frustrated or upset, I start taking power stuff from the first thing I can think of that’s dark.  (Looks down sadly).

Chazz: It is fine.

Kairi: Oh, but I did learn this.  (Closes her eyes after a few seconds, dark energy flows from Kairi to Chazz and Tori).

Chazz: Hmm?

Kairi: (The energy stops as she opens her eyes).  There.

Shizen: Interesting.

Chazz: Very.

Shizen: It is like support but in the darkness element.

Kairi: Is that bad?

Shizen: No just interesting how you are using your element.

Chazz: Instead of taking our energy she is giving it to us to use.

Jennifer: Do not give too much, you will get tired.

Kairi: Do not worry it.  Comes back faster when I am in the dark.

Shizen: Makes sense, could you focus on a shadow or some form of darkness as you attack?

Kairi: I can try.

Chazz: Try to go into a shadow form to embrace your element.

Kairi: (Looks confused).  The what now?

Chazz: A form that darkness surrounds you.  It raises your strength of your element.

Kairi: Alright I get it sort of.

Shizen: It is fine if you do not understand it right away.

Chazz: You will learn more as you go more into darkness.

Kairi: Oh, I can make small barrier things too!

Jennifer: You can?

Tori: Yes, she can.

Jennifer: Did you train with her.

Kairi: No but I showed him the barrier.

Jennifer: When.

Kairi: (Begins to panic).  Umm.

Tori: (Panics a little as well).  Kura was telling me about her training while I was carrying her since I had asked her so she woke up lady Kairi a bit so she could show me.

Jennifer: I see.

Kairi: Yes that!  (Mouths the words “thank you” to Tori while Jennifer’s back is turned).

Tori: (Mouths back the word “welcome” and smiles).

Kairi: (Smiles brightly).  I can try one now if you want.

Chazz: I would like to see your progress.

Kairi: Who should I put in the barrier?

Chazz: How about Tori or your sister.

Kairi: Alright!  (Smiles excitedly as she runs to Tori’s side Jennifer looking at them not really knowing how to handle it).

Tori: Umm I would suggest your sister since she has been having problems with barriers, hasn’t she Shizen?

Jennifer: … I can make a barrier.  (Gives a grumpy look).

Shizen: Can you?

Jennifer: (Is about to say something like she can but closes her mouth knowing that would be a lie).

Chazz: Hmm it would train them both at the same time, good call Tori.

Tori: (Sighs).  Thank you master.

Kairi: Fine.  (Pouts a little as she goes away from Tori who starts sparing with Hiki again as she hears Jennifer mumble to herself crossing her arms saying how she could make barriers around her arrows and how that should count).

Shizen: But you do that with very little thought into it.  Can you make a barrier around yourself or others?

Jennifer: (Tries to make a comeback but cannot).

Shizen that’s what I thought.

Chazz: Shizen wins again, Milady- 0, Shizen- 5.

Jennifer: (Pauses in shock).  Wait 5?

Shizen: It is not a matter of winning but if it were, he is right.

Kairi: (Laughs as Jennifer pouts under a tree).

Chazz: (Laughs).  It is just a guess.

Shizen: Now shall we get started?

Kairi: (Nods happily as Jennifer nods as well but less happily).

Shizen: Now one at a time I want to see what you can do.  Child you are first try putting a barrier around me.

Jennifer: I will try.

Shizen: Picture it in your head if that helps.

Jennifer: (Closes her eyes as she focuses, after a few minutes a barrier appears but only for second then flickers and goes away).

Chazz: (Watches carefully).  Maybe she needs more training.

Shizen: It is her focus; she starts wandering through the nature around her.  Her instincts are great, but focus is lacking.

Chazz: What about a barrier made of nature, like vines or a tree?

Shizen: She usually ends up making a barrier like that if she focuses but rarely an actual barrier.

Chazz: Interesting.

Shizen: Everyone has their strengths, but this is not hers.

Jennifer: (Animals start wondering over to her).

Shizen: That usually happens when she tries.  She probably is talking to them now, one moment.  (Pauses as she talks to the animals near Jennifer in her head).

Chazz: Alright.

Shizen: (Sighs).  She started to just chat with the animals around her.

Chazz: Oh, oh that must not be good.

Hiki: (Uses holy light again and again but this time her swords change shape).

Shizen: She is supposed to train not chat with friends and Hiki it looks like you have learned a new trick.

Hiki: It just happened while we were fighting with Amber… I’m not sure exactly but while we were defending master, I felt something changing.  (Her swords instead of being a normal white sword they become katana with a curved edge and a yin gem on the bottom of the blade just before the hilt).

Shizen: How do you feel?

Hiki: I feel the same just more… Lightly if that makes sense.

Shizen: Well, it is your element, so I understand.  Your skills, strength and speed have probably increased as well.

Hiki: Maybe but I do like the gem, it looks nice.

Shizen: Tori probably has the opposite gem.

Kairi: Ooh pretty.

Tori: I don’t have the gem yet….

Shizen: Maybe you need to train more or something to trigger the change.  Do you have a ability like Hiki was just using but not the same of course, it’s a different element.

Tori: Well… Only when we are in sword form is when we work better together… Outside of that we still need to work on like a combination type of attack.

Shizen: That does make sense but you two are not done growing and learning yet, truth is you are never done learning.

Chazz: We have been working on things as team whenever we have a chance.

Shizen: I believe it from how strong you are already, and I look forward to sparring with you once you have reached your full potential

Chazz: Well, we can try that another time.

Shizen: I agree.

Kairi: Shizen?

Shizen: Yes, young one?

Kairi: Are you really a wolf or is it like my sis when she turned part cat?

Chazz: (Laughs at the cute curiosity).

Shizen: Well usually I am a wolf to you, but I have my human side as well I have not shone often as of yet.

Kairi: Cool I want to see.

Jennifer: You do look cool, but I like the wolf too.

Shizen: Some other time and look who’s finally done goofing off.

Jennifer: … But they wanted to talk.  (Pets a young wolf and a squirrel near her).

Chazz: Milady you must focus.

Jennifer: I am sorry.

Shizen: It is alright, I understand.  I believe it is Kairi’s turn anyways.

Kairi: Alright I can try.  (Closes her eyes and after a moment a dark barrier forms in her hands).

Jennifer: (Looks in shock but then goes under a tree again feeling upset with herself).

Chazz: (Pets Jennifer’s head to make her feel better).  It’s alright.

Shizen: It is alright I said before that everyone has their strengths.  This is not yours, but I see that it is one of your sister’s.

Chazz: Shizen that doesn’t help much.

Shizen: but her combat skills and instincts are good, feel pride in that.

Kairi: (Opens her eyes).  Yay I did it!

Chazz: True enough.

Jennifer: (Stands up).  I guess you are right.

Shizen: It is like learning to wield a sword or any other weapon or skill.  Some have a natural ability; others have to learn it and spend more time learning that skill but in the end the person who practices their weakness the most and makes it a strength wins.

Jennifer: I understand.

Chazz: Yes, you will learn in time.

Kairi: It is like me when I tried fighting with my weapon.  I am not that good at it, but I will try my best the next time.

Jennifer: (Smiles proudly at Kairi as she whispers to herself).  You really are growing up.

Chazz: See, you cannot disappoint now, can you?

Jennifer: Indeed.  (Looks over as Kairi smiling then at Tori with a slight frown as she thinks).

Chazz: Well, this is going to be interesting now.

Jennifer: Huh what?

Chazz: Oh nothing, nothing milady.

Jennifer: What is it?

Chazz: Milady you need to be trusting of me.

Jennifer: I-I am I just wanted to know what you were talking about.

Chazz: It is a secret.

Jennifer: A butler who keeps secrets huh…. Fine do not tell me, I will figure it out.  (Starts walking over to Shizen who still is in the barrier Kairi put up as she instructs Kairi on how to strengthen it).

Chazz: (Sits down as Hiki and Tori finish up sparring and sit next to him).

Hiki: Master why are you not helping?

Chazz: I do not need to help anymore then I have.  They can figure it out themselves.

Tori: Trying to be modest, are you?

Chazz: Whatever could you mean?

Jennifer: (Starts practicing barriers as well but they form roots and vines instead of an actual barrier).

Kairi: (Focuses on the barrier still around Shizen as she adds more energy to it and follows Shizen instructions).

Tori: Training hard, are they?

Hiki: Reminds me of when we had to train you master.  It was fun, you always got up so early before Jenny to train with us.

Chazz: Fun?  It was hard but indeed rewarding to say the least and yes it was fun in some ways.

Tori: Why don’t you make a barrier now master.  We know you can make a good one.

Hiki: yes, master come on.

Chazz: Now, now the spotlight is not on me.

Kairi: (Backs up her hands in front of her as she makes the barrier larger).

Jennifer: (Looks in shock then a little upset but then snaps out of it as she goes back to practicing).

Kairi: (The barrier shrinks back to where it was looking darker).

Jennifer: (Tries making a barrier around herself only for it to be made of roots and vines).

Kairi: Is that good?

Shizen: Yes, you made the barrier stronger, that is good.  Not bad at all and Child though those barriers are made of plants they can be useful as well.

Chazz: (Yells to Jennifer).  You just have to focus energy instead of roots and you will be fine.  The problem is that your element is physical in the world, so it causes the two to mix up making it harder to learn!

Jennifer: (Yells back to Chazz).  Thank you!

Kairi: I think the roots and stuff looks cool.

Shizen: Well said also try shooting an arrow with a barrier around it and concentrating on the barrier, it may help.

Jennifer: Alright I will try.  (Grabs her bow).

Tori: And you said you wouldn’t teach.

Chazz: I did not, I just gave a tip.

Jennifer: That is basically teaching.  (Readies her bow and aims it at a tree the arrow starting to glow).

Chazz: Oh, oh it’s rude to listen in.

Kairi: It is alright, I do that all the time.

Chazz: So rude.

Hiki and Tori: (Begin to laugh).

Jennifer: I think it runs in the family.

Kairi: Yes, mom’s like that to.  Will she be back from her trip soon I miss her.

Jennifer: It is a few days to a week, I think.

Kairi: Yay I cannot wait!

Jennifer: (Concentrates on the arrow as it glows and closes her eye then let’s go of the arrow hitting the tree and a barrier expands on the side of the tree then fades away).

Chazz: Ohh.

Shizen: That is much better.  Perhaps we should have started with the bow.

Kairi: Good job sis, I knew you could do it!

Jennifer: Thank you.

Chazz: Maybe that is her way of doing barriers.

Shizen: It looks like it, but I want the child to make barriers like the one around me without a arrow but I am impressed.

Jennifer: Thank you.  (Smiles and bows).

Chazz: Try taking and arrow and planting it into the ground.

Shizen: That could work to but before that someone else is doing a very good job.  (Looks at Kairi who blushes from the praise).

Chazz: True.

Kairi: Thank you.

Shizen: I kind of want to put it to a little test.  Could someone punch the barrier?

Jennifer: But you are in it, wouldn’t you get punched if they go through.

Shizen: I suppose.

Chazz: (Stands up and walk towards Shizen).  I will do it.

Kairi: Umm alright I will try making it stronger.

Shizen: Just focus and you will be fine.

Kairi: Alright I will!  (Closes her eyes as darkness from shadows around her flows to her then to the barrier).

Chazz: Give it everything you have got madam.

Kairi: (Does not answer as she focuses).

Shizen: I think she is she is a very determined young one.

Chazz: (Gets ready to punch).

Shizen: (Watches Chazz carefully).

Chazz: I am just aiming to get through.

Shizen: I know, go ahead.

Chazz: (Punches the barrier and gets through).

Shizen: (Backs up a bit dodging).  Well, you got through which is alright, but did it feel like you had to punch a weak wall or something.  Not saying it was weak it is very good for a beginner.

Chazz: It is better for a starter to learn, and I had to put a little effort into it.

Kairi: (Looks upset).  But it did not stop him.

Shizen: No but he used a little effort and for a person of his skill to say that is a good thing.

Kairi: Alright I guess it was good?

Tori: Well, done Kairi.

Kairi: (Smiles proudly).  Thank you but I will stop him, I can do it!

Jennifer: You are as determined and stubborn as me.

Kairi: I know, I think that is who I learned it from.

Jennifer: (Smiles).  Well, you are doing a good job.

Chazz: (Laughs).  Would it be fine to show my barrier?

Shizen: I have no problem with it.

Kairi: Oh cool!

Jennifer: Is it like the one you made around us when I was fighting myself?

Chazz: Yes, but a bit stronger.

Tori: Oh, oh.

Hiki: (Laughs).  Wait until you see this.

Jennifer: Show off.

Shizen: It is alright to show off sometimes.

Chazz: (Take a meditative looking pose as everyone watches with interest as he poses his hands in certain position, one hand glowing white and the other glowing black with some of both elements surrounding him).

Kairi: Do I need to do that next time?

Shizen: No, you do not.  You are fine where you are at.

Tori: Master is channeling both elements into his barrier.

Kairi: Cool!

Jennifer: Indeed.

Chazz: (Pushes his hands into the ground and shouts.  Suddenly a black and white barrier surrounds everyone but with a pattern of chains going around sometimes).

Kairi: (Goes to the edge of the barrier placing her hands on it amazed).

Chazz: (Sits down and relaxes).

Shizen: Impressive.

Jennifer: Y-yes it really is but you are still a showoff.

Kairi: (Has her hands on the barrier and stares at it).

Chazz: Lady Kairi what is wrong?

Kairi: (Says nothing still and as she looks like she is thinking or concentrating, everyone noticing her).

Chazz: Hmm?

Kairi: (Dark energy from her goes to the part of the barrier made of dark energy).

Chazz: Hmm lady Kairi what are you doing?

Kairi: (Does not answer an energy still going through her and to the barrier).

Jennifer: Kairi?

Shizen: My guess is she is using her energy to strengthen the darkness element in the barrier, but I don’t know why she is not answering.

Chazz: (Takes down the barrier).

Kairi: (Snaps out of it).  Huh what?

Chazz: Are you alright Kairi?

Kairi: Yes why?

Chazz: You spaced out and gave energy to my barrier.

Kairi: I did…?  Is that good?

Chazz: It could be both good and bad.

Kairi: I did something to the barrier though?  I do remember putting my hand on it.

Chazz: You were giving it your energy.

Kairi: But how could that be good and bad?

Chazz: Well, it is good because you were giving the barrier strength but bad because you could have overloaded the barrier and caused an elemental explosion.

Kairi: So, don’t do that again, got it.

Shizen: It is fine as long as you have control.

Chazz: Yes, control is everything.

Kairi: Hmm I wonder.  (Looks at a shadow).

Chazz: Hmm what are you thinking?

Kairi: … Oh nothing.

Chazz: Alright then.

Kairi: (Reaches her hand in the direction of the shadow and concentrates on it).  I just want to train more and get better.  I want to be strong enough to help.

Chazz: Well, it is not worth it to risk your life or anyone else’s.

Kairi: I know… I am sorry (tears up a little as Jennifer goes over to her and gives her a hug).

Chazz: It is fine though, to have that resolve is good.

Kairi: But if something happens, I still want to help.  Maybe I could give my energy to you or Tori while you are fighting, maybe that will make you stronger.

Chazz: It would but you would not be able to keep yourself safe.

Kairi: (Looks down sadly).  but I cannot right now.

Chazz: I know.

Kairi: (Changes her mood to a look of determination again).   But until then I will learn all I can.

Chazz: Well, I believe that is enough for now and I know that you will reach that point.

Kura: (Appears along with Yami as she grabs Yami’s ear and pulling it till it hurts).

Yami: What the hell did I do!

Kura: You didn’t help with the barrier.

Yami: So?  I don’t need to do support crap like that.

Chazz: Oh, oh.

Kairi: Yami please can you help.  I know you helped me control what I take energy from.

Yami: I only did that because you were going to hug me again.

Kura: You’re lying.

Yami: Shut up!

Tori: (Laughs).  A very funny guy now aren’t you Yami.

Yami: What, say it again!  I still hate you for humiliating me.

Tori: I think you have done that yourself, but I don’t mind doing it again.

Yami: Shut up!  (Throws a knife and a shadow surrounds the knife).

Tori: Oh, oh.  (Dodges the knife).

Yami: Ha see!  Couldn’t throw that back.

Kairi: Do not make me hug you.

Yami: (Panics a little but the tries to play it cool like he doesn’t care).

Tori: No, no I could have but I didn’t want to put the effort into it.

Kairi: Yami be good, no more trying to hurt Tori.

Yami: He started it!

Kairi: Yami.  (Her arms open, ready to give Yami a hug).

Yami: Yeah, whatever but he acts like he’s so much better.

Kairi: Be nice.

Tori: Well, I can put him in his place.

Yami: Bring it!

Kura: Childish.

Yami: You want to fight too?  I’ll take both of you on!

Tori: That won’t be needed.

Kura: I never volunteered.

Tori: I know, I don’t wish to fight.

Kura: It wouldn’t be much of one.

Yami: Hey you better mean it’s an easy win for me.

Tori: You know what she said.

Kairi: Please don’t fight….

Tori: I don’t want too, I’m going home.

Yami: Hey you’re not running away!  (Throws another throwing knife).

Kairi: Stop it!  (Looks at Yami as she becomes teary eyed).

Yami: Why should-.  (Pauses as he sees Kairi crying) … Maybe this time.

Tori: A girl’s tear is a man’s weakness after all.

Yami: No, I just don’t want to fight anymore… It’s not worth my energy anyways.

Tori: Whatever you say.

Yami: (Glares at Tori then disappears).

Kairi: Thank you for not fighting.

Tori: No worries, he will handle his attitude one day.

Kairi: I am sorry; if he gives you trouble just let me know I can hug him.

Kura: Let me handle him.  He is just acting like a spoiled weak idiot.  (Emphasizes the spoiled weak idiot part so Yami could hear).

Tori: (Laughs).  Oh, now he is going to hear that and I will thank you lady Kairi.

Kairi: You are welcome.

Kura: Yes, but if I put a barrier up around him the problem is solved.

Tori: Alright, but I don’t think you may need to go that far really.

Kura: I will be off to tend to him though.  Farewell.

Tori: Goodbye Kura, I will see you another time.

Kura: Miss Kairi call me if you need me.  (Bows to Kairi and the fades away).

Kairi: Thank you.  (Bows as well).

Tori: (Nods and waves then fades as well).

Shizen: Well not that that’s over.

Jennifer: Now what?

Chazz: It is up to you milady.

Shizen: I think I will be going as well if we are done.

Jennifer: Very well, goodbye.

Shizen: Goodbye child.  (Fades away).

Jennifer: Well then.  (Looks at Hiki who is still there looking at her sword).  Is something wrong?  Your sword looks really cool.

Hiki: No, it’s nothing, it just looks really cool.

Jennifer: (Goes over by Hiki to get a closer look at the pure white sword with slight black marks on the hilt.  What she does notice take notice most of is the shiny crystal light shaped ing a yin symbol).  That gem is so shiny.  It almost looks like it is glowing.

Hiki: Yes, when I used the light it appeared and now it’s there forever.

Jennifer: I am glad you are getting stronger.  I feel happy for you.

Hiki: Thank you, I do feel stronger.

Jennifer: (Smiles and hugs Hiki).

Hiki: (Hugs Jennifer back).  Why the sudden hug?

Jennifer: what, I cannot hug a good friend when something good happens?

Hiki: Did you hear me complaining?

Jennifer: No not at all, I just want to give you a hug.  I am proud of you.

Hiki: (Smiles hugely).

Jennifer: (Lets go of the hug with a smile on her face).  Good job.

Chazz: Thank you milady.

Jennifer: No problem, anything you want me to help with just ask.

Hiki: Yes, I will be sure to talk to you when I need help with anything for sure.

Jennifer: I think I am going to train on my own for a little bit.  I will catch up later alright.

Hiki: (Shakes her head then disappears).

Jennifer: (Looks a little confused but then look at Chazz).  Well, this has been an interesting morning so far.

Chazz: It truly has.

Jennifer: If you want you may go back to the mansion.

Chazz: I am not sure.

Jennifer: Whatever you wish.  I may go deep into the forest to train.

Chazz: As you wish milady.

Jennifer: Yes, what do you wish to do?

Chazz: I may get breakfast ready.

Jennifer: very well will you come get me when you are done?

Chazz: I will send Hiki you know what I may go train with you for a bit to watch your progress.

Jennifer: Very well if you want to (unable to look Chazz in the eye since she had kissed his cheek).

Chazz: I must watch over you.

Jennifer: As you wish but it will not be very interesting to watch, I think.

Chazz: Well, I do not feel like waiting in the kitchen.

Jennifer: Very well I know you can keep up. (Runs towards the forest very quickly).

Chazz: Oh yes, I can.

Jennifer: (smiles and laughs a little as she reaches the edge of the forest and then hops from one tree to the next very quickly Chazz able to keep up. As she hops from tree to tree her feet glow and also the part of the tree that she jumps to and off of until she reaches a lake and stops).

Chazz: (follows through the trees and stops in the same place).

Jennifer: (looks around but then realizes she doesn’t have to) I forgot I don’t have to keep my powers a secret from you anymore, a lot has changed.

Jennifer: yes, I guess it has (looks down smiling).

Chazz: yes, it has milady.

Jennifer: I guess I should get to training then but I also use this time here to take care of the animals here, do you need anything before I start?

Chazz: no, no I will be by the tree watching.

Jennifer: very well.

Chazz: milady but first why did you kiss my cheek?

Jennifer: (looks surprised and then blushes as she looks away) wait what I mean umm no reason it was just a thank you.

Chazz: that’s what I thought because I heard you talk with Amber about someone you like is he a noble or a commoner?

Jennifer: (blushes a lot) you heard it, wait I didn’t mean I mean; please can you not ask?

Chazz: as you wish.

Jennifer: I’m sorry but I just cannot tell you (turn away as her eyes tear up).

Chazz: no, no I am sorry to ask such a personal question, I didn’t know my place.

Jennifer: there is no need to be sorry and your place and role serving me, is bigger than you think (drops to her knees as she cries with her back to Chazz).

Chazz: Madam Jennifer please gets off your knees.

Jennifer: (sits) I’m sorry I just do not know what to do, yes, it is true I like someone but I think it is pretty one sided, plus there are others who like him as well.

Chazz: interesting well if you like someone it is always best to tell them.

Jennifer: but I don’t know how, I can’t say it.

Chazz: well, I can’t answer that, you just have to listen to your heart and not you mind also if others like the guy he must be pretty popular.

Jennifer: yes, I will admit it but I did kiss him when he was unconscious (laughs to herself).

Chazz: my, my very forward aren’t you milady.

Jennifer: yes, it was stupid and I kind of regret it but oh well I just wish there were a way to tell him without saying anything.

Chazz: I don’t think there is unless someone said it for you.

Jennifer: no, I don’t think so; maybe I should just get it over with.

Chazz: do as you wish madam.

Jennifer: very well then, I guess I will tell him now.

Chazz: well, I must leave to get ready.

Jennifer: but before you go can I tell you about whom I like?

Chazz: sure, I am here.

Jennifer: he is the kind of person who is loyal, who would make me less grumpy in the morning and be good friends with the other who like him but is kind of clueless when it comes to noticing feelings towards him but that’s alright, would rather one of the others who like him be happy with him, I don’t want to be the reason others are upset.

Chazz: well milady I think you would be upset with yourself.

Jennifer: that’s alright as long as he is happy, I don’t mind (looks down sadly). You may go if you want.

Chazz: I do not believe you would.

Jennifer: But I can deal with it.

Chazz: Milady for as long as I have known you, you are emotional.  You may put up a tough front but, on the inside, you cry and when you are alone you cry your eyes out.

Jennifer: (Says quietly as she looks down and away).  You know me to well… Partly the reason I wanted to train alone.

Chazz: Well because I know this is why I cannot leave you alone.

Jennifer: I just wish I could tell you, but I cannot.

Chazz: Well, I would not want to know.  It would ruin the surprise for everyone.

Jennifer: The surprise?

Chazz: Yes, for Hiki, Tori and myself.  I do not want to invade on that part of your life.

Jennifer: (Whispers to herself “I wish you would”).  I understand but it would not be a surprise to Hiki and Tori.

Chazz: Hmm interesting, well I must be going.

Jennifer: Very well do what you need to do… Goodbye I will come back when I am done or just let me know when.  (Picks up her bow and starts to walk away looking away from Chazz with tears in her eyes).

Chazz: As you wish milady (begins to leave).

Jennifer: (Looks back at Chazz).  Well farewell for now.  (Closes her eyes and then opens them and they glow green).  Shizen.  (Glows all green and then it fades, and she is wearing the out with a hood and mask covering her mouth and nose.  Goes behind a tree and sits thinking on what she is going to do and if she should tell Chazz fully).

Chazz: (Once he is further away Hiki starts to bug him to find out who it is, but he disagrees).

Jennifer: (Animals start to come over to her to comfort her along with the pack of wolves who sit next to her.  The animals start giving her advice but are not very helpful).  No giving him a acorn is not how it works or making a pretty nest.  It is more complicated than that.  (Stands up and goes to the sick animals and healing them as others watch her hands glow green as she heals them but starts to get tired but continues as she saves the animals that are sick.  After a bit she goes back to the lake and meditates as she tries to travel through plants and animals with her mind as far as she can go but her thought makes it difficult).

Hiki: I shall get her back master.

Chazz: Please do.

Jennifer: (Sense someone moving very quickly to the forest and enters some animal’s minds to see who but all she sees is a white light going incredibly fast).

Hiki: (Finds Jennifer and hugs her from behind).  Hi Jenny!

Jennifer: (Snaps out of her meditation and then sees who it is and gives a little smile).  Huh oh hello Hiki, how are you?

Hiki: I have been good, master told me to get you and it’s time to eat.

Jennifer: Oh right, I am sorry I lost track of time.

Hiki: No, no it’s fine.  (Giggles).  I thought you were going to confess to Chazz.

Jennifer: (Looks down sadly).  I tried but… I don’t know.

Hiki: It would have been nice if you had because if you did I would have too, and it would be fun.

Jennifer: I do not want to get in the way if you like him, but I did try to give him a hint last night.

Hiki: I saw, remember I see everything master sees unless he does not want us too.

Jennifer: Well, I do not know what to do.  I have thought about just leaving the feelings alone.

Hiki: But Amber told you otherwise.

Jennifer: How do you know about that?

Hiki: Well master said he had heard you and I kind of figured what happened.

Jennifer: He did not hear all of it, part of me wish he had.  It would make things easier.  I have a question if you have feeling for him, why help me tell him about my feelings.

Hiki: Because I am going to tonight fully too.

Jennifer: Really?  I am glad to hear it.  I hope it goes well and wish I could see the moment when you tell him.

Hiki: Well, I will tell you later.

Jennifer: (Looks down and smiles).  Aww you are much braver than me, I hope you get him.

Hiki: It is taking everything in my being to even try.

Jennifer: Whatever he says I will be here to comfort you or jump for joy.  I will not get in the way.

Hiki: Well, you should do the same then.

Jennifer: What, at the same time?

Hiki: Maybe it would be very interesting now, wouldn’t it?  (She starts to laugh a little).

Jennifer: I wouldn’t want to get in the way.

Hiki: No, it would help me a lot.

Jennifer: And it would help to have someone there for support.

Hiki: Yes, it would.

Jennifer: But I tell him last, I really want to support you anyway I can.

Hiki: And I will do the same for you Madam Jenny.

Jennifer: You can even barrow one of my dresses but let’s talk about it later, let’s eat.

Hiki: Yes milady.

Jennifer: Call me by my name not milady.  We are friends after all.

Hiki: I do it is a force of habit.

Jennifer: It is alright, Chazz does not like to call me by my name because it is improper… But I have a question, what do we do if he likes both of us.

Hiki: then we both love him.

Jennifer: (Gives a confused look).  But only one of us can go out with him.

Hiki: Is that true, I don’t understand.

Jennifer: No, I do not understand I thought you meant that we could both go out with him but I do not see how that’s possible.  (Begins to blush flusteredly).

Hiki: I am not sure either.

Jennifer: We will see how he feels first.

Hiki: Alright Jenny.

Jennifer: Yay you called me by my name.

Hiki: I have before, how is it different now.

Jennifer: I do not know it is just nice to hear someone call my name other than my sister.  I am still getting used to it.

Hiki: Well, I can say your name whenever master can’t, but he wants to sometimes.

Jennifer: He can when only you Tori and Kairi are around.

Hiki: No even then he doesn’t, he just says Madam Jenny.

Jennifer: (Sighs).  Oh well close enough, I mean he was trained by the head butler so it is expected that he would be formal.

Hiki: Yes, he was taught to be formal at all times.

Jennifer: Very well maybe Yami can learn a thing or two from him.

Hiki: Maybe but I doubt it, he doesn’t respect master because of Tori.

Jennifer: Indeed, he does have a problem with Tori.

Hiki: He does but Tori won’t fight him because of Kairi.

Jennifer: That reminds me I still have to have a chat with Tori….

Hiki: About what?

Jennifer: I think Kairi likes him, she may not even know it herself, but it is easy to figure out.

Hiki: Yes, it kind of is, she is almost 15 after all.

Jennifer: Well as the person who looks after her, I am very protective of her, and I do not want her to get a broken heart so young.

Hiki: Tori isn’t the type of guy to break a heart so easily.

Jennifer: Yes, I realize that now.  I saw while we were training just for a bit and whenever I see them together, believe me I was planning to threaten him to stay away at first, I noticed but now I see he’s starting to care about her.

Hiki: Maybe he does, maybe he doesn’t.  We won’t know for sure, he does know how to treat a lady because of master showing him.

Jennifer: Another thing I have in common with my sister is that we see a connection between two people my mom is the same way and when I was younger, I would ask every person who looked good for one another if they were together its funny, she must be a family thing….  (Laughs a little shaking her head in amusement).  Change of topic, I’ve always wondered what it is like to be a spirit and specially to live that long.

Hiki: It is good and bad.  You have these abilities that make you feel incredible and can do anything but because we live for so long, if we have a good person as our user, we see them die either in combat or of age.  When either happens, the spirit is sent back to their worlds, and we feel lonely until we find a new user.

Jennifer: I cannot imagine how that feels, it must be so difficult, I mean yes Chazz and I and even Kairi will get older but you….  (Starts to tear up as Shizen appears in back of her as she listens).

Hiki: Shizen there is no need to hide now since I can already tell you are there, you know.  You want to comfort Jenny as well, don’t you?

Shizen: I suppose, yes, I understand it can get lonely but child you know yourself firsthand.

Jennifer: I do?

Shizen: How long do animals live compared to humans?

Jennifer Oh right….

Hiki: So as spirits as do humans and animals, we try to make every day count.  We do what we can to savor the memories because that’s what makes a life worth living.

Jennifer: Yes, you’re right.

Shizen: Yes, I hope to stay in your memories as well just like animals in this forest you love so much and yes, I saw you were upset when you could not save some of them but they were old unfortunately.  You can heal sick or hurt animals but that is one thing you can not heal.

Jennifer: I know I have tried many times….

Shizen: I know it is hard.

Hiki: Death is unavoidable, we all face it at some point, but we do our best to make them count.

Shizen: Yes, and where there is death there is.

Jennifer: … Life.

Hiki: Exactly.

Shizen: I am glad I will have friends that will keep me in their hearts.

Jennifer: me too but why do you make it sound like you are leaving?

Shizen: I am not I still have enough fight in me to keep you safe, but I do wonder how spirit go into retirement.  I have seen humans do that perhaps spirits can.

Hiki: I am not sure.

Shizen: I will let you know then if I do.

Jennifer: I want to ask you Hiki, how long have you known Tori.  Is it when you met Chazz, or have you known each other longer?

Hiki: When I met Chazz really.  I have known of Tori from the other light spirits, but I never met him.

Shizen: You seem to have known him for longer.

Jennifer: It is almost like you are brother and sister.

Hiki: Well, we have been together for a long time.  We met Chazz 2 months after he became a butler.

Jennifer: Yes, ooh maybe you really are brother and sister and that is why.

Shizen: Umm possible but very unlikely.

Jennifer: But possible.

Hiki: No, we are not, I checked at some point, and I was wrong but I always wanted a brother… Look at the time we must be heading back now.

Jennifer: Wait spirits can have children?

Shizen: It is possible.

Jennifer: How?

Shizen: Well, let’s take Hiki and Tori, if they were siblings their parents would have to be one dark spirit and one light and when a light and a dark spirit love each other very much-.

Jennifer: Do not give me the talk!

Hiki: Shouldn’t you know this by now Jenny?

Jennifer: I know!

Shizen: (Smirks).  You asked child, you get embarrassed easily perhaps I should explain further.

Jennifer: No, I am good please do not.

Hiki: (Laughs).

Shizen: Very well shall we go.  Well, I can go in your mind again a giant talking wolf walking through your home would look out of place as I said.

Jennifer: Very well.

Hiki: (Walks as she hears Chazz asking in her head where they are and why they are taking so long).  We just had some girl stuff to talk about.  Don’t worry master we are on our way now.

Jennifer: Oh, I’m sorry I guess talking has made us late.  Should we run, it is a bit far.

Hiki: No, we can walk, it is fine.

Shizen: I don’t feel like running anyways.

Jennifer: Alright.

Hiki: (Smiles).  Interesting talk now, wasn’t it?

Jennifer: Very, it gives me a lot to think about.

Hiki: I would hope so.

Jennifer: So, while everyone’s here we can have as much fun as possible.

Hiki: Of course.

Jennifer: Thank you I am feeling a lot better after that talk.

Hiki: Good.

Jennifer: We do not want to keep Chazz waiting, maybe we should run.

Hiki: Yes, Jenny we shall.  (Grabs Jennifer’s hand and starts to run).

Jennifer: Whoa hold on I do not know if I can run as fast as you.

Hiki: Well, that’s why I’m holding your hand.  You don’t need to put your feet on the ground, I will run for you.

Jennifer: But….  (She stops realizing it feels like she is traveling at high speeds being taken back by it).  Wow… Your fast.

Hiki: (Laughs as she runs).

Jennifer: You have to teach me how to go this fast!  This is awesome!

Hiki: I’m afraid I can’t.

Jennifer: Oh, right it’s a different element oh well.

Hiki: Yes well, we are here but you might want to fix your image.

Jennifer: (Laughs looking like she had been through heavy wind).  Wow my hairs a mess.

Hiki: My hair’s a mess as well.

Jennifer: I have a brush in my room, let’s go get it.

Hiki: Want to run again.

Jennifer: … Maybe.

Hiki: (Grabs Jennifer and runs to her room).

Jennifer: (Shakes off some dizziness from going so fast and then goes into her rooms closet and looks for a dress and a brush).  Thank you Hiki.

Chazz: (Comes into Jennifer’s room).  So that is where you two were.

Hiki: Sorry master I need to brush my hair.  I need to look pretty too.

Chazz: Yes, yes Hiki. You always will look pretty to me.

Jennifer: (Shouts from the closet not able to hear Chazz come in).  You can borrow some of my stuff if you want and you can take some make up as well.

Hiki: Thank you Jenny, I may take you up on that.

Jennifer: No problem, would you like a dress as well.  Kairi got you some I am sure; I wonder what she got everyone oh and can you help me with this dress.  (Comes out holding a dress on her that needs to be zipped up but then pauses as she processes that Chazz is there).

Hiki: Umm master you need to leave.

Chazz: Umm yes sorry for the intrusion. (Leaves quickly).

Hiki: Jenny… Why are you hiding… Jenny?

Jennifer: (Pokes her head out from behind a shelf flusteredly).  Is he gone?

Hiki: Yes, he is.

Jennifer: Alright.  (Comes out of her hiding place while blushing greatly).

Hiki: Well, I didn’t expect you to come out like that.  You are so forward.

Jennifer: (Blushes more).  I did not think he was here!

Hiki: True enough.

Jennifer: oh well it’s not like he saw me nude or anything.

Hiki: (Remembers when Jennifer passed out after she had fought with herself and lost consciousness and lost her animal form but says nothing).  Yes, he never had and let’s get dressed now.

Jennifer: Yes, can you help me zip up my dress please?

Hiki: Of course.

Jennifer: Thank you.  (Turns her back to Hiki and moves her hair out of the way).

Hiki: (Zips up the dress easily).

Jennifer: Thank you, here is an extra brush I had.  You can keep it. (Hands Hiki a silver brush with a swirl wave design engraved into it).

Hiki: Ohh how cute, I love it!

Jennifer: You can have it; I would say it is a thank you.

Hiki: Yay!

Jennifer: Now do you need help or anything?

Hiki: No, no I will be fine.

Jennifer: Very well we can leave together, I will wait.

Hiki: Well, if you want to help me put on the dress because I don’t usually wear dresses… Or this complex at least.

Jennifer: You do not?

Hiki: No not really.

Jennifer: I suppose something simple so that it is easy to put on.  (Runs into the closet taking out a few dresses one being blue and another one white and also a pink dress).

Hiki: I like the white one.

Jennifer: Alright here you go, it is simple to put on.  It is like a long shirt then a belt you tie at the waist.

Hiki: (Gives a confused look but begins to undress anyways).

Jennifer: (Blushes and turns around).  Wait for me to turn around!

Hiki: But I thought you were going to help me?  (There is a teasing idea though Jennifer does not see it).

Jennifer: … Oh… I am sorry, how did you dress before with no help?

Hiki: I usually just put it on but not physically put it on, with energy.

Jennifer: Lucky.

Hiki: That is how spirits can dress but not most.

Jennifer: That might be a problem when Kairi asks us to try on the clothes, she got us.

Hiki: Well, I can put it on physically, I just need to learn.

Jennifer: I will help.  Do you at least know how to undress?

Hiki: Just help me get the belt on; I can get the dress itself, just not anything else.

Jennifer: Alright I can help with that here.  (Unfolds the dress so Hiki can put it on).

Hiki: (Puts the dress on and pulls out her hair so it doesn’t get caught on anything).

Jennifer: Well, you got it over your head but there is one problem?

Hiki: What?

Jennifer: The dress is on backwards.

Hiki: Whelp… My bad.  (Laughs as she realizes how silly the dress feels this way).

Jennifer: Here you can just pull your arms out of the sleeves, and I can turn it around.

Hiki: Alright.

Jennifer: (Helps Hiki fix the dress).  There we go.

Hiki: Awesome so what else.

Jennifer: Oh, right the belt.  It is a pretty simple dress, there are many more complicated with more parts to it.

Hiki: Alright well lead the way.

Jennifer: Could you lift your arms oh and I have a question do you have a birthday; humans do but do spirits celebrate it?

Hiki: (Lifts her arms as told).  Umm I’m not sure.  I think one is celebrated every century; I would like my birthday would be when Tori and I met Chazz so June 22nd.

Jennifer: Oh, we should celebrate that day.  (Wraps the leather belt around Hiki’s waist and ties it).

Hiki: (Stands still in a little shock).  Celebrate?

Jennifer: (Looks at Hiki confused).  Is something wrong with that?

Hiki: Whenever it was near the time master would always leave at night with Tori and I and walk around town and have a good time.  It was sweet of him, and he has done that every year for us.  (Starts to cry a little bit).

Jennifer: That is so sweet.  He really does care about you two.  (Hugs Hiki).

Hiki: That is why I love him.

Jennifer: Well, you can tell him tonight.  I will be rooting for you.

Hiki: (Nods but a little hesitant to Jennifer).  … Yes.

Jennifer: Well, we are ready to go, shall we?

Hiki: Yes, we shall.

Jennifer: (Opens the door for Hiki).  Let us go, we are already late.

Hiki: Yes Jenny.

Jennifer: (Makes it to the dining room seeing Chazz waiting and curties to him).  Hello, my apologies for being late.

Chazz: It is alright, everyone was waiting anyways.

Jennifer: My apologies now have you eaten or will you be joining for breakfast.

Chazz: I am fine, I have eaten but Hiki and Tori can join you.

Jennifer: If they wish.

Kairi: (Arrives in the dining hall).  Hi!

Jennifer: Hello sis.

Tori: (Appears).  Hello Hiki, nice dress you got there.

Hiki: Thank you Tori.

Kairi: Hi Tori and it is a pretty dress.  I cannot wait to show what I got everyone.

Tori: Well, I look forward to it.

Kairi: (Hugs Tori).  Yay!

Jennifer: (Looks at Tori as she decides what to think as Hiki smiles at her).  Well shall we sit down to eat then?

Chazz: Yes, you shall.

Jennifer: You could at least sit with us.

Chazz: I will sit next to Hiki then.

Hiki: Thank you master.

Jennifer: (Smiles as she heads to table).  Great.

Kairi: (Grabs Tori’s hand and pulls him along and looks up at him).  Can I sit next to you Tori?

Tori: I don’t see why not.

Kairi: Yay!

Jennifer: … Very well.

Hiki: (Looks at Jennifer with a grin).

Jennifer: (Sighs and says to herself “just let it go” and starts to eat).

Kairi: Yum let’s eat.  (Smiles at Tori who smiles back at her). And after this I can give everyone the stuff I got in town.

Jennifer: Yes, but do not go over budget again.  You almost gave Chazz a heart attack when he saw the bags.

Chazz: (Sighs as Jennifer, Hiki and Tori laugh).

Jennifer: Just promise not to ask what each thing costs, do not worry about it.

Chazz: I am already worried.

Jennifer: I covered the cost, think of it as a gift from Kairi and I that may or may not be pink.

Kairi: (Has a big smile).  No, it is not… I think.

Chazz: (Sighs again).

Jennifer: I am sure it will be fine.

Chazz: As you say milady.

Jennifer: (Sighs looking down slightly).  I suppose you cannot call me by my name, I know its improper but I….

Hiki: (Stares at Jennifer with a mad look which makes Jennifer shut up and eat).

Kairi: So how much does a spirit need to eat?

Tori: We can eat about the same as humans.

Kairi: cool because if you did not you would miss out on a lot of yummy food.

Tori: We know.

Kairi: And did the girl from yesterday already leave.

Jennifer: Do you mean Amber?

Kairi: Yes.

Chazz: She had left, I saw her off while Hiki was getting milady.

Jennifer: I see, well maybe she will visit again.

Chazz: Maybe.

Kairi: (eats quickly with a content sigh).  That was good.

Jennifer: (Looks at everyone else seeming a little odd to have more people at the table eating with her but liking the idea with a smile).  Indeed.

Tori: Was nice.

Hiki: (Continues to eat but is almost done).

Kairi: Chazz did you make it, it is really good.

Chazz: No, no though I wish I had though.

Jennifer: I thought you did, oh well some other time.

Chazz: I will cook another time for sure.

Jennifer: A Chazz’s food taste test?

Kairi: (Giggles).  Good idea.

Chazz: Yes, yes.

Jennifer: Yes, is everyone done?

Chazz: It seems like Hiki just finished.

Kairi: Yay I can show you the clothes.

Jennifer: You are really excited.

Tori: I look forward to it.

Hiki Yay new clothes!

Jennifer: Umm how formal did you make the dresses?

Kairi: Hmm some have like 10 parts to them.

Jennifer Huh….  (Pauses looking at Hiki)

Hiki: Umm.

Jennifer: I can help you Hiki.

Hiki: (Smiles).  Thank you.

Kairi: (Looks at both Jennifer and Hiki with a confused look).

Jennifer: No problem.

Kairi: Alright then…?  Come on what are we waiting for!  (Stands up running to the door excitedly).

Jennifer: (Laughs as she stands).  I believe we should not keep her waiting.

Chazz: Yes, we shall.

Kairi: Come on the bags are in my room!  (Begins to skip to her room as everyone follows her).

Jennifer: Alright.

Kairi: I think I put names on the bags but I’m not sure.  Most of it is the color of each person’s element.

Hiki: (Her face brightens up looking for white packages).  Cool!

Tori: (Does the same but with black packages).  Very nice detail.

Kairi: (Smiles brightly).  Thank you!

Jennifer: (Everyone makes it to Kairi’s room and as she opens the door.  They see the bags are taking up a third of the big room as everyone look in shock).

Kairi: Aww it was not sorted out.

Jennifer: Kairi where are they even going to put half of this.

Kairi: Oh, I did not think of that.

Chazz: You really have no idea how hard it was to get everything here.

Kairi: Oh, I am sorry.

Chazz: It is fine.

Jennifer: Let us get started then.

Kairi: Alright I can hand everyone each bag that says their name.

Jennifer: Not all at once.  I do not want to be crushed by all the bags please.

Chazz: Please one at a time.

Hiki: (Enters the room along with Tori).  Woah!

Tori: That’s a very big pile.

Jennifer: (Laughs at both Hiki and Tori’s reactions).  went a little overboard huh?

Hiki and Tori: Just a bit.

Kairi: Let’s get started!  (Looks for the tags on a big bag).  Hiki this one’s yours.

Hiki: Yay!

Jennifer: That’s a big bag.

Kairi: I think the big bags have the fancy dress stuff in it.

Hiki: (Takes the bag).  Thank you.  (Pulls out a big flowing white dress with sparkles.  The dress has a layered sheer white lace over the skirt fabric and a blue sash on the waist with silver detailed embroidery making her start to blush ).

Jennifer: Umm Kairi what is that?

Kairi: Umm a dress?

Jennifer: What kind of dress?

Kairi: A pretty white dress.

Hiki: T-thank you miss Kairi; it is very pretty.  (Blushes unable to look up).

Kairi: What is wrong?

Jennifer: You know… That is a wedding dress, right?

Kairi: … I just thought it looked pretty so I got it.

Hiki: No, no it’s fine I like it.

Jennifer: It is pretty, I am afraid to ask how much it was, but I do not think I will.

Chazz: Good choice and Hiki it would look beautiful on you.

Jennifer: Have to admit Kairi, you do have good taste.

Hiki: I will wear it at my wedding.

Jennifer: Good idea, we will have to keep it safe until then.

Kairi: Yay, well here is the next one.  (Looks at the box’s tag to see who it is for).

Chazz: Yes, yes.

Kairi: This one is Chazz’s.  (Hands the box to Chazz as she smiles).

Chazz: (Takes the bag happily opening it and finding a black suit with white detail on it at the ends of the sleeves and the seams of the fabric seeming to be for formal events).  A very nice suit.

Jennifer: See that was not that bad, apparently Kairi knows style.

Kairi: (Giggles with a big smile).  Thank you.

Chazz: I will start wearing this now.  I am in need of a new suit.

Kairi: Good because I got you four those.  They are similar but have more designs to them.

Chazz: Well suits for a good amount now, I appreciate your kindness madam Kairi.

Kairi: Oh, think I can find another one in here.  (Digs through the pile).

Chazz: (Sighs).

Kairi: (Picks up a box and gives it to Chazz).

Chazz: What is in the box?

Hiki: Open it and find out master!

Kairi: (Goes back to sit down but now right next to Tori who smiles at her).

Chazz: (Opens the box and sees a suit of the same style but decorated with gold and silver designs with thread and made with greater detail than any of the other suits).  Ehh I like the silver but the gold will grow on me.

Jennifer: (Looks in shock blurting out).  Kairi t-that’s a noble’s suit!

Chazz: (Gives the same shocked look).  Why a nobles suit?

Jennifer: A suit a noble would wear to a party or something with other nobles.

Chazz: But still why?  I do not partake in noble events.

Kairi: But it looks pretty.

Hiki: It really does.

Jennifer: I suppose I can brag about having the most well-dressed butler.

Chazz: I guess so.

Jennifer: Or you may be mistaken as a noble.

Chazz: That may benefit me sometimes.

Jennifer: How so?

Chazz: Well sometimes butlers are treated as a second-class person because of their position of not being a noble.  Though many nobles do not treat them like that there are some cases where it does happen.

Jennifer: (Frowns).  I am sorry to hear that happens but just so you know I think of you as an equal, noble, or not.

Chazz: I am aware, I have always known that.

Jennifer: Just let me know if someone gives you a hard time.  I will take care of it.

Chazz: No, no I will be fine but thank you for the idea.

Jennifer: As long as the person being rude is not of the kings and queens’ family.  (Laughs a little).

Chazz: I know.

Kairi: The other two suits are similar, but one has just gold as the border and the other is silver.

Chazz: Thank you Miss Kairi.

Kairi: Alright next one!  (Digs in the pile).

Jennifer: Do not fall in.  We might lose you in the pile.

Kairi: (As everyone laughs at Jennifer’s joke Kairi reads the box’s name excitedly).  Tori.

Tori: (Sits up more).  This will be something.

Jennifer: It looks about as big as the box Chazz had so maybe it is a suit.

Chazz: Maybe, I am kind of curious.

Tori: (Opens the box seeing a very simple yet stylish suit that’s all black and made of a very fine soft fabric).  Very nice.

Kairi: Yay you like it!

Jennifer: Simple but it suits you, plus the fabric looks comfortable.

Tori: I may try it on later.

Hiki: (Still blushes from her dress but not as badly).  It looks great Tori!

Kairi: I am glad you like it.  There is one other, it is black but a bit different.

Tori: Hmm?

Kairi: I can look for it.  (Goes back into the pile to look).

Tori: (Looks at the suit with interest).

Kairi: Found it!

Tori: cool.

Kairi: (Smiles as she hands the box to Tori who smiles back at her).

Tori: (Opens the box and looks very happy with it seeing a outfit that looks similar to his masters outfit that he used to wear being a more casual suit with a tailored black leather long jacket).  I have seen these clothes before….  They look like the ones my teacher would wear.

Kairi: (Tilts her head to the side curiously).  Really?

Jennifer: (Does the same).  Wow really?

Tori: This is more of a memory for me then a outfit.  He had told me before that “Tori you are young and have potential, one day you may even surpass me” and then he vanished after that.  (Is suddenly surrounded by darkness energy, the energy coming from the clothes).

Kairi: Tori are you alright?

Tori: I am not sure… I feel strange.

Kairi: (Looks at Tori with confusion and worry).

Chazz: He is changing, Tori look at your swords.

Tori: (Pulls out his swords from the darkness).

Kairi: Is that good?

Chazz: Tori… Try saying the first words that come into your head… We may see something very interesting.

Tori: (He thinks for a little bit as he grasps his hands together whispering the word).  Darkness release.  (Suddenly Tori’s swords are surrounded in darkness and change shape).

Jennifer: (Looks in awe).  It is almost like Hiki when we were training.

Tori: (The swords change into two katanas that are pure black swords with a curved edge like Hiki’s and also a black yang gem on the end of the hilt and a black aura around them).

Kairi: (Looks in amazement at the sword).  Whoa… Cool.

Jennifer; Yes, it is like the dark version of Hiki’s.

Chazz: Tori… I guess now… You have gained the resolve to fight for something more and the strength to achieve them.

Jennifer: But somehow the clothes triggered the change?  Kairi where did you got these clothes?

Kairi: I do not know just an old shop.

Chazz: Remember Tori said that these clothes seemed similar.  It does not mean they are the exact same clothes his teacher wore.

Jennifer: They look to new to be old but Kairi good choice.

Kairi: (Has a bright smile).  Thank you!

Tori: I need to thank you as well Kairi.

Kairi: I am glad I could help!  (Gives Tori a hug who hugs her back).  I do not think anything else I give you can top that.

Tori: I will be happy to have any gift you give me.

Kairi: (Blushes slightly).  As long as you are happy with it.

Jennifer: (Smiles at Tori and Kairi thinking how cute catching herself off guard at the thought).

Kairi: I guess keep handing out gifts?

Chazz: Yes please.

Kairi: (Digs through pile once again).  Here is one for sis.

Jennifer: I wonder what it is.

Hiki: What is it!  What is it!

Kairi: (Hands Jennifer the box).

Jennifer: I guess I will find out.  (Opens the bag revealing a green dress with a leather belt, quiver with leaves carved into the leather along with gloves and boots and a hood on the dress).

Hiki: Ooh looks cute!

Jennifer: It is like what I wear when going to the forest but a dress, thank you.  (Pats Kairi’s head giving her a hug).

Kairi: (Giggles again).  You are welcome!

Chazz: Seems rather nice.

Jennifer: It is pretty much what I like wearing, good job.

Kairi: Thank you!

Chazz: Well, done milady.

Kairi: Alright next one!  (Digs in the pile again then holds up another box).  Shizen.

Jennifer: (Stares in a little shock).  Really?

Chazz: I would not be surprised.

Jennifer: Well, when Kairi said everyone, I guess she meant everyone.

Shizen: (Appears and sits in between Jennifer and Kairi both making room for the giant grey wolf).

Chazz: Indeed, she did.

Shizen: Well hand me the box, I am interested.

Kairi: Do you need help?  You do not have hands, you have paws.

Shizen: I will be fine.

Chazz: Couldn’t you just change into a human form anyways?

Shizen: (Grins).  I do not feel like it, but it is alright.  I can manage.

Chazz: As you say.

Shizen: (Opens the lid of the box using her mouth and then tilts her head).  Oh?  I expected a dress, but this is much better.

Chazz: Hmm?

Shizen: (Lifts up some green clothes for extra-large dogs with a buttoned leather vest and silks green scarf a bit amused by it).

Chazz: How convenient.

Jennifer: Good thinking.

Shizen: I like the scarf; I think I will wear it now.  (Shows a scarf with a leaf design on it in her jaw).

Hiki: Looks cute.

Jennifer: Do you need help; I can tie it.

Shizen: (In the blink of an eye the scarf is on her as she smirks).  I can manage.

Hiki: (Laughs a bit).

Kairi: (Stops for a second but then digs into her bag as she giggles more).  The next one is Kura’s.

Kura: (Appears next to Kairi and bows).  There is no need for presents but thank you my lady.

Kairi: No problem here you go.  (Gives Kura the box).

Chazz: I do not think you have a choice.

Jennifer: No one does.

Kura: Hmm.  (Starts opening the box and pulls out a black flowing knee-high dress with dark blue leggings and bordered with shades of blue being lighter as they reach the edges of the long sleeves and skirt).

Hiki: (Her eyes widen at the pretty dress once it’s held up).  Ooh.

Kairi: I was thinking of getting just black, but I thought blue would suit you to because of your hair so I got it with a blue border.

Kura: (Smiles and bows to Kairi).  Thank you, lady Kairi.

Hiki: It looks so cute.

Kura: Thank you.  (Bows again and then sits down quietly looking at the dress with a smile).

Jennifer: Well, there is only one person left who did not get a gift yet.

Chazz: Who?

Kairi: (Lifts up another box).  Yami!

Chazz: (Instantly remembers).  Ahh.

Jennifer: Is he coming out?

Kairi: (Pauses as she listens).  He says he does not want to.

Tori: Yami if you don’t come out, I will call you the weakest again.

Yami: (Appears out of a shadow looking pissed off throwing a dagger at Tori).  I am not even close to the weakest here!  Stop pissing me off!

Tori: (Catches the dagger with ease).  Hey, it works doesn’t it?

Jennifer: I think throwing stuff at you is how he says hello.

Kairi: Bad Yami, stop throwing stuff at Tori.

Yami: (Crosses his arms grumpily).  Yeah, yeah just give me the stupid present.

Kura: (Grabs Yami’s ear and pulls it until it hurts).  Do not be rude to Miss Kairi.  She has gotten you a gift, be grateful.

Yami: (Rubs his ear and looks away from Kura).  Hey let go!

Tori: (Laughs a bit).

Kairi: (Hands Yami the box with a big smile).

Yami: (Mumbles thanks as he glares at Kura).

Hiki: Make sure to say thank you properly Yami.

Yami: (Gives Hiki a annoyed look).  I said thanks.

Hiki: But I didn’t hear it, did you Kairi?

Kairi: I heard thanks; I think that is close enough.  I don’t mind.

Hiki: As you wish.

Yami: (Opens the box revealing a black suit that is bordered with red being rather casual in style).

Tori: It seems nice.

Yami: I guess it’s ok.

Chazz: Hmm?

Yami: Don’t see what’s the big deal.  (a card falls out of the pocket of the suit and Yami picks it). What the fuck is this?

Hiki: (Stares curiously at Kairi).

Yami: (Frowns seeming bothered and then drops the card looking upset).  I’m leaving.

Chazz: Why?

Yami: (Opens the window and leaves nothing else said but looking bothered).

Jennifer: (Picks up the card to look into it).  What was that about?

Hiki and Tori: (Gives a confused look to each other).

Jennifer: It is a nice card; Kairi even drew a nice picture in it.  (Shows everyone the card that says, “I know you can be upset a lot but I don’t think you are as bad as you say, in fact you can be pretty nice” But also a picture of everyone together and helping cheer up Yami like a family).

Tori: And he gets bothered over that?

Jennifer: (Frowns seeing Kairi is getting upset and hugs her to comfort). … Very odd.

Kairi: (Looks upset and as if about to cry).  I did not mean to upset him.

Tori: (Frowns seeing Kairi tear up and goes towards the window Yami went out of).  Kura come with me and let’s talk to the fool.

Kura: (Gets up).  Yes, I agree.

Tori: (Leaves with Kura without another word).

Kura: (Once they are outside, they walk for a bit until Kura points to a tree).  He should be right behind that tree over there.

Tori: (Walks over to the tree with Kura).

Yami: (From behind the tree).  Go away!

Tori: Why should I?

Yami: Just go!  I don’t need to tell you why!

Kura: It would help.

Yami: Just leave me alone!

Tori: Yami I can’t leave you alone.

Yami: (Snaps back).  Why not!

Tori: Because you can’t act like this.

Yami: Why not, not like I care!

Tori: But yet you do care.

Yami: don’t tell me if I care or not!  You don’t know me!

Tori: Well, you are coming back to the room now.

Yami: Why should I!

Kura: (Sneaks around the tree to look at Yami).

Tori: Because if you don’t, I’m going to beat it into your skull.

Yami: And you think I care if you do, not saying you can!

Kura: (Peaks around the tree then seems a little surprised then frowning to herself a moment keeping it to herself best she can).

Tori: Oh, I can’t can I?

Kura: (Frowns still then runs back to Tori).

Yami: … Whatever I’m not in the mood so just go.

Tori: No fun then.

Kura: (Whispers to Tori).  … I think he was crying.

Yami: Do what you want, I don’t care even if you do I’ll just take your energy.

Tori: (Whispers to Kura “I see then it makes things easier”).  Now Yami why did you run from a sweet letter and picture that lady Kairi gave you?

Yami: None of your business!

Tori: Well, come on back then.

Yami: I don’t feel like it, go away!

Tori: Nope.

Yami: Just leave me alone!  (With anger in his voice dark energy is taken from Tori as Kura frowns more noticing right away).

Tori: You’re not taking anything from me.

Kura: (Pauses as if thinking of something to say as she gives Yami more energy, so Tori is not as affected).  It is easier to take from me first since we are both Kairi’s spirits.  I just hope Kairi is far enough to not be affected.

Tori: Oh, she is slowly affected still since like you said, her spirits.

Kura: I will try to take whatever burden I can, so Miss Kairi is fine.  Yami stop taking energy.

Yami: Taking what?  (Pauses not even noticing he was).   Oh, I see….  Should I care about anything that is happening?

Tori: Because you do care.  You try to push it off to hold your ego up because you can’t accept the fact that you do care.

Yami: What do you know!  You don’t even know me!  What I’ve done who or what happened before I was here, so you have no right to say I care!

Tori: Well then explain to me what happened.

Yami: (Stands and turns steps away from the tree to look at Tori).  Why should I bother and why should you care!

Tori: Because you are part of this group so I will care.  A bonus that you are darkness.

Yami: If you’re saying that darkness spirits should stick together, you’re wrong and what good is getting attached to a person who won’t even stick around!

Tori: Is that how you feel?  You’re afraid of losing a connection so that’s why you distant yourself so you don’t feel pain.

Yami: …. I-I never said that!  Don’t put words in my mouth!

Kura: Is it Miss Kairi and that drawing that made you realize this?

Yami: N-no it’s just a stupid card, why would it?

Kura: Or is it the fact that someone actually cared enough about you to get you something with nothing in it for themselves?  Just to give you a gift.

Tori: You stutter, you lie or are not being honest with yourself.

Yami: (Darkness taken from Kura becomes more as she becomes a little tired looking as she is taking the burden off of Tori).  Shut up, you don’t know me at all!

Tori: (Smacks Yami suddenly).  I know enough that you are hurting the people that care about you!  Come back or I will make you come back!

Yami: (Changes his stance to a fighting defensive stance).  You’ll pay for that and I’m not going back there, I can’t!

Tori: Why can’t you then?

Yami: (Looks down looking sad for only a second but then changes to a look of anger as he readies his dagger).  I don’t have to tell you!

Tori: Oh, oh here Kura have a barrier to reduce the draining.  I need to put a kid in their place.

Yami: I’m not a kid!

Kura: I can make a barrier of my own.  I am fine but I do not fight as well.  I leave him to you.

Yami: If you can’t fight what good are you?

Kura: A fight is not all combat.

Tori: A fight is strategy and courage.

Kura: And then there are those who support the ones fighting.

Yami: That sounds boring.

Tori: That is why you are a kid.

Yami: (Throws a dagger as Kura sets a barrier around herself).  I’m not a kid!

Kura: I would say the barrier should last about 5 minutes before it is absorbed by him, is that enough time?

Tori: (Brings out his swords).  Yes, it is.

Yami: (Another dagger appears in his other hand as he gets ready to fight).  Fine you want to fight, bring it!

Tori: Oh, oh.

Yami: What you making fun of me?

Tori: (Readies his swords).  No, no just thought I needed to finish this up quick.

Kura: It is alright I am a spirit who has the ability to give others power as long as it is the same element.

Yami: Bring it!

Tori: (Charges at Yami quickly).

Yami: (Charges in as he yells and moves faster because of the energy he absorbed from Kura, but Tori is able to keep up.  He throws his throwing daggers every time he is backed away and then uses both daggers, slashing nonstop more power being drained from Kura’s barrier than before as she places, he hands on the barrier to help it stay).

Tori: (Hits Yami on the back of the head with the hilt of his sword to knock him out quickly).

Yami: Gah!  (Is knocked onto the ground a bit dazed but gets up but stumbling quite a bit).

Tori: (Hits Yami again).

Yami: (Falls to the ground again but still awake but out of breath struggling to get up again).

Tori: You’re done Yami.

Yami: (Energy continues to pour into Yami as he slowly stands up again).  Never…. I’m not giving up!

Tori: (Hits Yami over the head again but harder, as Yami’s head hits the ground hard enough to make a small crater).

Yami: (Is dazed but then reaches out his hand darkness out his hand darkness energy being taken lessening).  I… can’t… give… up.

Tori: Stop taking energy now!

Yami: Don’t you see I can’t!  … If you want me to stop then just knock me out already.

Tori: Calm down and focus and I won’t need too.

Yami: I won’t give up though even if I can’t move I won’t… I don’t know how.  (Stares at his hand eyes narrowing as he thinks of something).

Tori: (Hits Yami again the same as before).

Yami: (Energy taken slows even more and slowly comes to a stop).

Tori: (Looks around Yami).

Kura: (Lets down the barrier seeming to be very upset no matter how hard she tries to hide it).  Did you really have to-…?  That was quick but what do you think?

Tori: He is still awake.  I was aiming to stop the draining.

Kura: It seems to have stopped… Thank you.

Yami: (Says nothing looking away as he lays there).

Tori: Yami starting tomorrow you will be practicing with Hiki and I on teamwork and Kura would you join us as well.

Yami: (Says nothing as he looks away still).

Kura: I will do what I can to work as a team with him.  (Bows then stumbles as she falls to her knees).  But let’s rest for today I am drained.  He takes more energy when angry.

Tori: I know and alright.

Kura: Yami why won’t you say something?  Is your pride hurt?

Tori: Yami get up and let’s head back.  Lady Kairi is waiting for you.

Yami: (Sits up and turns his back to both Tori and Kura).  No.

Tori: Why not?

Yami: I can’t care, not again.  I rather leave.

Tori: Well, we can’t let that happen as I can see you already do care.

Yami: (Still is turned around and looks down).

Kura: (Looks down as if already knowing the answer to her question).  What has happened to you that you don’t want to?

Tori: Hmm.

Yami: (Still doesn’t answer standing up, Tori and Kura looking at him with confusion).

Kura: We cannot help if we do not understand.

Tori: We can’t help if you don’t talk about it.

Yami: Why bother… Why help.

Tori: Because… You are part of the family.

Yami: What family…. I don’t even know what that means.

Tori: Kairi is family to Lady Jennifer who my master serves.  In a way we spirits are part of this family too.

Yami: Why have a family who are not spirits?  They don’t stay… Not even the spirit ones do.

Tori: But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t enjoy the moments that count.

Yami: I would rather not care then enjoy something that doesn’t last.  That’s why I had someone who taught me to corrupt so I wouldn’t have to.

Tori: Well, Hiki get out of here.

Hiki: (comes out).

Kura: (Bows to Hiki).  Hello miss Hiki.

Hiki: Hello everyone.

Kura: I take it you were here the whole time?

Hiki: Yes.

Kura: Is there any way you could help?  I am not sure how.

Hiki: Yami if you fear losing connections then what is scarier?  Being alone or being surrounded by people that care about you.

Yami: I used to know that, but I choose not to now… I was taught that… Someone….

Hiki: Well, I believe they were wrong.

Yami: He’s the one who taught me to corrupt but also did that by leaving and promising to come back… And never did.

Hiki: I see then.

Yami: But then he just left… He promised… Then just disappeared.

Hiki: Like Tori’s teacher.

Yami: After that I just was a street rat, either no one paying attention to me or just….

Hiki: Well Kairi pays attention to you and loves you very much.

Yami: Why I’m just a corrupt spirit whose ability has caused so much death.  For a person who hates death what good am I.

Hiki: Why not ask her yourself.  (Leads Kairi to Yami).

Yami: No don’t I-.

Kairi: Yami are you alright….  I’m sorry you had a hard life so far….  I just thought that being your friend could make it a little better….

Yami: (Turns looking surprised).  But why…?  What is there to gain from being friends with me?

Kairi: Gain?  I just want you to cheer up and be happy.

Hiki: For every friendship there is always nothing gained but the happiness they want.

Kairi: Is that why you don’t like hugs?

Yami: Haven’t got one since last of my family went away about 200 years ago.

Kairi: (Looks shocked and sad but then smiles kindly reaching out to him).  Really…? how about a hug now?  They are not bad.  (Steps towards Yami as he steps back).

Tori: (Pushes Yami forward into the hug).

Yami: (Is pushed into Kairi’s arms as he panics a little not really knowing what to do, looking to anyone for help).

Hiki: Why not hug her too?

Yami: (Looks like he’s not sure what to do putting his hands in his pockets looking away but can almost see a slight blush as Jennifer and Shizen come to watch).

Hiki: (Guides Yami’s hands to Kairi’s hips to hold).

Yami: (Looks surprised but still kind of frozen not knowing how to react as Kairi smiles up at him.  Seeing the smile, he gives a confused look not knowing what to think as Jennifer and Shizen stand by Hiki and Tori).

Hiki: He is not very honest.

Tori: No, he is not, sounds like someone we know.

Jennifer: (Looks both ways).  Who?

Shizen: (Laughs with sarcasm in her voice).  I have no clue.

Jennifer: (Gives a confused look but shrugs it off).

Kairi: (Let’s go of the hug still smiling at Yami who puts his hands in his pockets and looks away).   See not so bad.

Yami: I-I’m not scared of something silly like a hug.

Hiki: But you just said a while ago that you were scared.

Yami: (Gives an embarrassed look).  No, I didn’t!

Shizen: It is not weak to show emotion.

Hiki: It really isn’t.

Tori: (Laughs).  Well moving on how do you feel now?

Yami: Fine but I want a rematch.

Shizen: Just like a child to not let things go.

Yami: I’m not a child!

Shizen: How old are you again?

Yami: (Crosses his arms looking upset as he looks away).  ….

  Hiki: Also, where is master?  

Jennifer: I don’t know, I thought he would follow us.

Hiki: Hmm.

Jennifer: Hold on I will tell you in a second.  (Closes her eyes looking for Chazz through the stone finding him in the dining as he talks to maids about an upcoming dance.  Opens her eyes that are now glowing green but fades away).  He is in the dining hall.

Hiki: Cool.

Shizen: Good also Yami another thing you look older than you should.  Show us what you really look like.

Tori: (Raises his eyebrows in interest).  Hmm?

Yami: (Studders with an obvious lie).  I-I look like this.

Shizen: (Narrows her eyes at Yami).  It is a trick I know well.  Hiki and Tori don’t need it because they are young adults, but you look a little younger the Hiki now….  That seems off.

Yami: W-what are you talking about?

Shizen: I know because I am using a similar trick right now with the wolf form.

Tori: Interesting.

Shizen: Tori remember when you cut off my energy, I was going back to what I really look like.

Tori: Yes, I remember.

Shizen: It is alright we won’t laugh at how you really look.  You will not look weak to us.

Yami: No way!

Tori: (Sneaks behind Yami getting where Shizen is going with this).

Shizen: Come on, I will show you what I look like.

Yami: No, I don’t care.  I just don’t want to.

Tori: (Stabs Yami’s energy flow).

Yami: (Panics as he tries to get away).  Hey what are you doing!

Tori: (Hits Yami already which creates a magic seal on it until he says otherwise).

Shizen: (smirks).  Now there was no need for that.

Yami: Bastard… wait why aren’t I changing and let go of me!

Shizen: Give it a few seconds.

Tori: Sorry, sorry I did not want to be patient.

Yami: Just let go!  (Tries to get Tori to let go of the back of his shirt collar).

Shizen: Why do you have a problem with that?  Are you afraid he will lift you up?

Tori: I have let go but the seal stays until I say otherwise.

Yami: Lift the seal now!

Shizen: And 5.

Yami: What?

Shizen: 4.

Yami: What are you counting?

Shizen: 3.

Tori: 2.

Hiki: 1.

Yami: (Gives a worried look and then looks at his hands to see if anything changes and nothing does).  Nothing happened…?

Shizen: Oh, wait I was I little off it should be right… Now.

Yami: No! (He begins to slowly shrink looking younger and younger).

Shizen: He said he was a few hundred, correct?

Hiki: I think so.

Yami: (Continues to shrink now looking to be in his early teens now and continues shrinking).

Tori: (stops the seal).

Shizen: you stopped it?

Yami: Why.  (Covers his mouth realizing he sounds like a kid his age stopping fully at about looking 10).

Tori: That’s why I stopped it.

Hiki: (Laughs uncontrollably).

Yami: Don’t laugh at me!

Kairi: wow you look younger than me now.

Kura: (Looks slightly emotional seeing Yami but brushes it away quickly).  If Tori hadn’t of take the seal off, would he have been younger? …. No that should be the right age by now…. (Whispers that last part to herself).

Yami: Shut up!

Hiki: (Can’t stop laughing).

Yami: I said don’t laugh at me!  (Realizes he still sounds like a kid and covers his mouth, so he doesn’t talk anymore).

Shizen: It is alright, I do the opposite with my appearance to make me look a little younger at times.

Yami: Then why don’t you show how you look for real!  (Covers his mouth again).

Hiki: (Stares at Shizen now in interest).

Shizen: (Sighs).  I do not hide to much since I am quite fond of my looks and age now as a spirit.  I quite like the form of a wolf, but I can show you my human form instead since it has not been seen often.  Perhaps I should show it more to you since that is what I truly look like.

Tori: It doesn’t matter to me.

Hiki: I like the wolf.

Shizen: Very well give me a moment.  (Sits down).

Jennifer: (Looks interested and concerned).  You don’t have to if you don’t want to.

Hiki: Yes, it’s fine.

Shizen: If you want to know it is fine but I rather Tori not put a seal on my energy.

Tori: I only do that when I don’t know, and everyone wants to know too.  Plus, they are weak seals, only lasts for 10 minutes.  I wouldn’t put a big one for something like this.

Yami: Wait that was a weak seal, are you calling me weak!

Shizen: He can put the seal back.

Yami: (Looks at Tori becoming a little scared).

Tori: No, no it is easy to seal magic energy off temporarily for a very short period, no need to worry.  I already had undone the seal on your magic, it will go back to its normal flow in a bit.  If I made it stronger you would be unable to use magic or become physical in this world.

Yami: Wait then why did I stop shrinking?

Shizen: He took off the seal when you stopped, you look about 10.  I believe which makes more sense now.

Yami: Jerk.

Kairi: You look smaller than me still woah. 

Tori: You should be returning to normal in a few minutes.

Yami: Still will get you back for this!

Tori: I look forward to it then.

Kura: (Sighs).  I do not understand how fighting can be fun but very well.

Hiki: Boys will be boys.

Kura: I suppose.

Shizen: Save the fight for another time.

Tori: I know.

Shizen: (Sighs).  I suppose it’s my turn.

Hiki: Hmm?

Shizen: (Lies down casually).

Hiki: It is fine.

Shizen: Very well give me a moment.  (Glows until it is hard to see her as Jennifer and Kairi cover their eyes while Hiki can see fine.  Shizen instantly ageing looking a little older around in her forties instead of late twenties both in human and wolf form showing both one at a time as the glowing fades away.  She has very long grey hair that is a bit wild in style and her figure is very well endowed with her curves and forward about showing them off).

Tori: (Sits by a tree casually as he watches).

Shizen: this is what I really look like; pardon me if it is a little underwhelming.  Believe me I am quite old for a spirit though it may not seem so to a human.

Yami: (As he goes back to looking like a young teen).  God how old are you?  You look really old.

Shizen: (Narrows her eyes at Yami).  Someone needs to teach you manners.

Hiki: (Laughs a bit).

Yami: Yeah, what you going to do about it.  You can’t even move I bet.

Shizen: So, you do not think I can teach you respect?

Hiki: (Sits by Tori and lies on his shoulder and relaxes).

Yami: Bring it!

Shizen: (Instantly a vine hits Yami in the gut sending him flying).

Kairi: (Laughs and then sees Hiki and Tori thinking how cute).

Shizen: Now that, that is taken care of I believe you should show what you look like Yami.  We did agree and you should accept it and stop hiding.

Yami: … I never agreed.  (Sees the vines wrap around his foot again).  … Fine.  (Shadow goes over him then goes away Yami looking maybe ten or even younger perhaps being quite short).

Shizen: Was that so bad?

Yami: Whatever.  (Covers his mouth sounding even more childish).

Shizen: Very well shall we head back.

Jennifer: But Hiki and Tori are asleep.

Shizen: Oh, we can relax as well.

Kairi: Sounds good but we didn’t open all the presents.

Jennifer: We can sort them out for everyone later.

Kairi: Alright.

Chazz: (Walks out of the mansion and towards the group).  Oh, oh what are those two doing now?

Kairi: They are taking a nap.  It is a nice idea.

Yami: Why?  I’m not tired.  (Covers his mouth again forgetting he sounds like a kid).

Chazz: Oh, oh how is sir Yami now hmm?

Yami: Shut up!  (Shadows form over him and he goes back to looking like a young teen).  Much better.

Shizen: He was only showing what he really looked like because of a seal Tori put on him so I did the same.

Chazz: Ahh alright Tori and his seals.  Tori always practices with them; he excels at magic flow slowing seals.

Yami: Yeah, well it sucks.

Shizen: Everyone has what they excel at.  I wonder what Kura and Yami have as strengths.

Yami: (Shrugs).

Kura: I could show you my abilities anytime.  (Bows).

Chazz: Well, we will find out some day.  Anyways why not have a picnic out here?

Shizen: (Goes back to her wolf form instead of a woman in her early forties).

Jennifer: Good idea, plus it is a nice day.

Chazz: I will get the needed things then.

Jennifer: I could help.

Kairi: Me to!

Yami: I don’t want to have a stupid picnic.

Kura: Quit whining, what if they ask you to show what your abilities are and show off.

Yami: … Maybe I’ll stick around.

Chazz: Very well madams I appreciate your help.

Kairi: What if one day we could switch places.  We could try being servants and you a noble.

Chazz: No, no need for that.

Jennifer: I tried; I lasted about a half hour.

Kairi: Really, wow it’s that hard?

Jennifer: No… I am just extra clumsy.

Chazz: When did you try milady?

Jennifer: I helped Amber and Hiki dress.

Kairi: You what?  Why did they need help?

Jennifer: … Well.

Chazz: I feel like I should ask.

Jennifer: … Hiki said she can’t dress herself…

Kairi: Why?

Jennifer: Umm….

Chazz: Umm alright then let’s get going….  (Starts to walk back to the mansion with Jennifer and Kairi but looks at Hiki questioningly like she has lied about something).

Kairi: Wait spirits can’t dress themselves?  Then how do they get clothes on?

Jennifer: They… Appear magically?

Chazz: Pretty much they can convey their energy to clothes to make it easier, but I think it is uncommon

Kairi: Wait what happened when they fall asleep?

Jennifer: Honestly, I have no clue.  I am no help.

Kairi: (Looks even more confused).

Jennifer: Wait then how did-.  (Remembers the night Hiki and her cuddled Chazz and that Hiki was unclothed more as she shuts her mouth quickly).  … Nothing.

Chazz: Do not get me wrong they can take off their clothes when they reverse their energy but once it’s on it looks and feels like normal clothing.

Kairi: Woah I kind of feel silly getting clothes for them if they can just poof clothes on.

Chazz: It is fine, they can wear normal clothes, but some are not used to it.

Kairi: If their alright with that.  I don’t think it is that difficult, but I can try being a maid and helping.

Jennifer: No.

Kairi: But why, you got to be one.

Jennifer: Not by choice and you are too young to help with that.

Kairi: Does not sound that hard.

Chazz: Then I suggest following a maid around and see how they work.  You may not work as one, but you certainly can see how they work.

Kairi: I can follow you around.

Jennifer: Do not do that.

Kairi: Aww why?

Chazz: You may follow Hiki around since she is a maid.

Kairi: Why not Chazz or Tori?

Jennifer: Men do different chores.

Kairi: Like what?

Jennifer: … This is too many questions.

Chazz: Tori will not be around, and tomorrow is a day for me so I cannot escort you around another time however Hiki is available, or another maid is.

Jennifer: Good you need a day off.

Kairi: Alright but still have a lot of questions.

Jennifer: Since when have you asked so many questions?

Kairi: I don’t know I just want to learn a lot.

Jennifer: Alright then ask anytime and about anything.

Kairi: Can I ask one more question?

Jennifer: Of course.

Kairi: This question has been bothering me for a while but why do men and women have different places to go.  Like one goes to one restroom and one goes to the other or in clothing stores or locker rooms or even different wings of a house.

Jennifer: (Stop frozen in shock and surprise).  K-Kairi that question is… Hard to explain.

Kairi: Why is it?  It is just a question.  I did try to sneak into the boy’s quarters to figure it out myself but I got kicked out.

Jennifer: You did what!

Kairi: What did I do that is so bad?

Jennifer: Just never do that again… Did anyone talk to you about this stuff?

Kairi: No not really, what stuff?

Jennifer: Good… Wait then if no one did and our parents are not really around to explain that, then that means….  (Looks in shock and panic as Kairi looks at her confused).

Kairi: What is wrong, I am just asking.

Jennifer: (Still is frozen in shock).

Kairi: Hello?

Chazz: Well then.

Kairi: (Waves hand in front of Jennifer’s face).  I think I broke sis.

Chazz: I think you did.

Kairi: How?  I just asked a question.

Chazz: Your sister wasn’t ready for that question.

Kairi: What is so bad about it?

Chazz: You will find out one day.

Kairi: (Gives a confused look).  Can someone else explain?

Chazz: Boys and girls are made different so they have places made for them because it would be bad if they were all together in the same changing room.

Kairi: Why, who cares if we are different that’s just silly.

Chazz: Well, you have a point but there are parts of our bodies that are different.

Kairi: (Looks lost in confusion).

Chazz: You will figure out one day lady Kairi.  It is hard to explain to you but one day you will understand.

Kairi: Is that why sis has not moved yet?

Chazz: Yes, she is trying to figure out how to explain it.

Kairi: I guess but there has to be a better person to explain it… She has trouble with those things.

Chazz: I am not sure.

Kairi: So, should we just come back later for her?

Chazz: We can wait.

Kairi: Alright I will ask again later.

Chazz: Yes.

Jennifer: (Snaps out of it a moment later).  Huh what happened?

Chazz: Different things.

Jennifer: (Remembers looking kind of traumatized).  Oh right.

Chazz: Yes, yes.

Jennifer: Kairi how old are you?

Kairi: 14 but I’ll be 15 soon.

Jennifer: (Sighs as the realization hits her).  I see.

Chazz: Yes, that age.

Jennifer: This is not fair.

Kairi: What?

Jennifer: You’re growing up to fast.

Kairi: But I have not grown much since I was 10.  I am still really short.

Chazz: (Chuckles a bit).

Jennifer: Well, I forget sometimes that you are not that age anymore.

Kairi: Is that good?

Jennifer: For me yes.

Chazz: But everyone grows up at some point.

Kairi: But what if I stay short?

Jennifer: Then you will be like me.

Kairi: You are awesome though.

Jennifer: Daw that was sweet, thank you.  (Pat’s Kairi’s head).

Kairi: Well, you are my big sis.

Chazz: The love of siblings is undying.

Jennifer: (Hugs Kairi as they walk).  Yes, we have stuck by each other’s side since… She was born really… Especially since our parents are not around a lot…. Mom more so but my father….  (Looks down for a second but quickly brushes it away).

Chazz: I have seen the both of you grow to be great ladies.

Jennifer and Kairi: Thank you.  (Both smile and curtsy, Jennifer lightly blushing).

Chazz: No, no thank you.

Jennifer: Why are you thanking us?

Chazz: I am not sure but let us move on.

Jennifer: Very well.

Kairi: Alright.

Jennifer: (As they walk).  Oh, and about the watching us grow up thing.  Since we are close to the same age, we watched you grow as well.

Chazz: That is true, isn’t it?

Jennifer: And you have become a loyal butler and a great friend.

Chazz: Your words are far too kind milady.

Jennifer: But it is true you being here means a lot.  I do not have many friends but you Hiki and Tori are great ones.

Chazz: Well, I am proud to be your friend.

Jennifer: Yes… friend.

Kairi: (Looks at both Jennifer and Chazz but says nothing).

Chazz: Is something the matter with that?

Jennifer: oh no don’t worry about it… It is nothing.

Chazz: As you say.

Jennifer: What do we need for the picnic?

Chazz: We need some sandwiches and something to drink.

Kairi: Oh, and a big blanket to sit on.  I think I got one while at the store.

Jennifer: Of course, you did.

Chazz: Alright then let’s get our things together.

Kairi: Alright I will go get the blanket and meet you back where everyone is.

Chazz: As you wish.

Kairi: Bye.  (Runs very quickly becoming out of sight with a shadowed streak behind her as she runs).

Jennifer: … Umm she’s fast.

Chazz: Very.

Jennifer: How did she learn that?

Chazz: Probably from Kura or Yami.

Jennifer: She learns quick… But anyways what do you want me to get or help with.

Chazz: The sandwiches.

Jennifer: Ah yes what kind are you in the mood for?

Chazz: Anything you see fit.

Jennifer: Maybe just a bit of everything to make everyone happy.

Chazz: Seems nice.

Jennifer: Yes, happy to help.  (Makes it inside the building and into the kitchen).

Chazz: (Gets the sandwiches ready rolling up his sleeves to do so).

Jennifer: Oh, you know what would make this even better, cake.

Chazz: That does sound really good.

Jennifer: Hmm what kind, maybe chocolate vanilla or peanut butter or add some cinnamon, maybe strawberries since Kairi likes those.  (Starts listing ingredients and flavors she could make).

Chazz: How about chocolate and vanilla.

Jennifer: that works (goes through the kitchen grabbing a apron and putting it on as she gathers ingredients to mix).

Chazz: You want to cook?

Jennifer: I thought you wanted me to make a cake?

Chazz: If you wish too.

Jennifer: You never have seen me cook, have you?  I like it even though it is frowned upon for a noble to do servants duties.  I may burn some things, but I enjoy it still.  I think I am getting better at least.

Chazz: No, no I have heard some nobles do cook.

Jennifer: Well, my favorite is baking.  (Puts her hair into a ponytail looking in a mirror nearby).

Chazz: Well pastries are one of my favorites.

Jennifer: I could do that ooh maybe vanilla or chocolate filled.

Chazz: Maybe.

Jennifer: Here you decide, whatever you want.

Chazz: A brownie sounds nice.

Jennifer: Brownies it is.  (Smiles as she bows and then goes to collect ingredients).

Chazz: (Starts making sandwiches).

Jennifer: (Mixes the ingredients as she hums and dances a little dorkily as she cooks happily).

Chazz: (Laughs a bit as he watchs Jennifer dance around).

Jennifer: (Does not notice Chazz as he laughs being to absorb in her mixing and cooking).

Chazz: (Thinks to himself “why is she dancing around like that, maybe that’s how she goes with the flow since she is a bit of a klutz….  It is really cute).

Jennifer: (Puts the brownie into the oven hesitantly, seeing the stoves fire but puts it in quickly so she does not freak out playing it cool and then looking at Chazz).  Alright that steps done, now to make the toppings.

Chazz: Ohh how are you making them miss dorky dancer.

Jennifer: (Blushes feeling embarrassed).  Oh… I forgot I was not alone here, but I guess I got a little carried away with that.

Chazz: You kind of did milady but it was nice to watch.

Jennifer: (Blushes more as she looks away).  … Right well let me get the toppings while that’s in the oven.

Chazz: As you say.  (Sits down and watches with interest being done with the sandwiches).

Jennifer: (Feels a little uncomfortable with being watched feeling self-conscious so she stops dancing but does hum a little as she mixes ingredients).

Chazz: I can guess I am making nervous so I will leave.  I do not want you to stop your cute dance lady Jennifer.  (Begins to leave).

Jennifer: (Blushes more).  No, it is alright.  I just… Wait… Cute?

Chazz: Umm yes sorry for the comment but the way you were dancing was cute in certain words… I apologize if unneeded to say.

Jennifer: No, it is fine you spoke your mind and that is good.  (Looks down as she smiles slightly as she blushes).

Chazz: Well then please continue to cook your heart out.

Jennifer: Very well you do not have to leave if you want so sit back down and take a break.

Chazz: Well, I am going to finish up the sandwiches.

Jennifer: Very well. (Smiles and then goes back to mixing).

Chazz: (Tries to keep busy and works on the sandwiches some more).

Jennifer: (Starts to hum and dance a little again as her mind wanders).

Chazz: (Starts to watch again with a smile).

Jennifer: (Sways her hips to whatever she hums as she mixes ingredients).

Chazz: (Laughs a bit amused).

Jennifer: (Blushes).  Oops I did it again didn’t I?

Chazz: No need to worry.

Jennifer: Oh, the brownies should be done.  (Heads over to the stove).

Chazz: Well, my sandwiches are done so I will be leaving.

Jennifer: Before you do could I ask one thing of you?

Chazz: Yes, what is it milady?

Jennifer: Could you take the brownies out of the stove.

Chazz: Of course.  (Heads over to the oven to take the brownies out).

Jennifer: I am sorry, I just do not like opening the stove….

Chazz: I know, it is fine.  (Gets the brownies out).

Jennifer: Thank you.  (Blushes as she stands close to Chazz).

Chazz: Are you alright milady?  Do you have a fever?  (Puts his hand on Jennifer’s forehead to get her temperature).

Jennifer: (Blushes even more).  Uh umm yes, I am fine.

Chazz: Hmm you are quite warm.

Jennifer: N-no it’s not that I promise.  (Blushes a lot).

Chazz: As you say then.

Jennifer: I-I am fine please do not worry.

Chazz: Alright milady.

Jennifer: Anyways thank you I just need to put the toppings on, and I will be done.

Chazz: Alright I will wait then.

Jennifer: Very well, it will not take long.

Chazz: (Sits down and puts the sandwiches in a basket).

Jennifer: (Starts putting icing on the brownies as she hums and sways her hips a little and then pours the icing on the brownies.  She looks for something to spread the icing around as she bend down to look in a cabinet).

Chazz: (As Jennifer bends down he looks away instantly to find other tasks to focus on).

Jennifer: (Finds a big spoon and brings it over to where the brownies are).

Chazz: (Finishes packing up the sandwiches as he hears Kairi running down the hall with the blanket).

Kairi: (Yells as she runs in with a blanket that is blue with a green design).  I’ve got the blanket!

Jennifer: Good, I see you are excited.

Chazz: Very nice blanket, I like the design.

Jennifer: Yes, it is very nice.

Kairi: Thank you.

Chazz: (Puts the bottles of juice in the basket with the sandwiches and lifts the basket looking ready to go).

Jennifer: Oh, right juice, what kind are you getting?

Chazz: Some apple, orange, and grape.

Kairi: Ooh yum

Jennifer: (Laughs at Kairi’s reaction).  Indeed.

Chazz: It is nice to have a variety of flavors.

Jennifer: It really is.  (Puts some final things on the brownies then picks them up).  Alright I am done.

Chazz: Alright well let’s head out now madams.

Jennifer and Kairi: Right!

Chazz: I will walk with you both.

Kairi: I hope so, you have the food.

Jennifer: If not I made brownies.

Kairi: Yay!

Chazz: Do not worry, I have the food.

Kairi: Good what kind of brownie did you make?

Jennifer: I made a chocolate brownie with vanilla frosting.

Chazz: She was not sure what to make.

Kairi: Sounds yummy though.

Jennifer: Thank you.

Chazz: She kept dancing around as she was cooking.

Kairi: She does that alot when doing chores.

Jennifer: (Blushes with embarrassment).

Chazz: (Laughs).

Jennifer: Let’s just forget that ever happened.

Chazz: I will try milady.

Kairi: You are not going to, are you?

Chazz: Nope.

Jennifer: (Looks defeated).

Kairi: Aww cheer up, it is alright.

Chazz: (Gives Jennifer a hug) it is fine milady.

Jennifer: (Blushes a lot when suddenly hugged).  T-thank you.

Kairi: (Smiles at Jennifer and Chazz with a small sound of daw).

Chazz: Now, now let us get going.

Kairi: Right!  I will race you there!  (Runs off).

Jenifer: Wait we have food… And she’s gone.

Chazz: Yes, she is, we might as well keep going.

Jennifer: I do not think I can stop her anyways.

Chazz: Yes, neither can I.

Jennifer: Well, let’s keep going.  (Continues to walk with Chazz as she blushes looking away so he cannot see).

Chazz: As you wish milady.  (Walks beside Jennifer carrying the sandwiches).

Jennifer: R-right….

Chazz: It has been a long day so far and it is only lunch time.

Jennifer: Indeed, but it has been a good day.

Chazz: Very true.

Jennifer: Yes, oh and I have a question.

Chazz: What is it?

Jennifer: How did you hide that you had powers from me for so long?

Chazz: Well, it was easy.  I did not give the image of having them.  I always carried my sword because I was supposed to, but you never really looked into it, so I just hide it.  Plus, it is not hard to suppress the presence of energy.

Jennifer: Wow then how did I keep my powers secret.  I mean I am bad at hiding things.

Chazz: Well, I had an idea, but I never proceeded further.

Jennifer: Why not?

Chazz: I am not sure.

Jennifer: I mean the head butler taught me a little of the fighting skills mostly, but I guess I did not really see you train with him.

Chazz: Because we train in the early morning and at night.

Jennifer: Oh, right me and morning do not mix but when I could I snuck out to the forest at night.

Chazz: And the head butler would find you and send you back.

Jennifer: Oh right.  (Gives a grumpy look to the memory).

Chazz: Do not make a face like that.

Jennifer: Oh, sorry that was rude towards him.

Chazz: It is fine.

Jennifer: But if you trained your spirits as servants wouldn’t I have known them earlier?

Chazz: No, they worked behind the scenes for things I needed help with.

Jennifer: Ohh I see oh one more thing.  That time I went to the woods and the first time you followed me, why did you?

Chazz: I am not sure, I just felt like I should have oddly.

Jennifer: I see but did you have to attack me?

Chazz: Well, I wanted to test you.

Jennifer: You could have just told me that.

Chazz: There is no fun in that then.

Jennifer: Instead, you just scare the heck out of me, such a good butler.

Chazz: Thank you.

Jennifer: (Glares grumpily at Chazz).

Chazz: (Smiles happily).

Jennifer: Well, I will get you back for that then one day.

Chazz: Well then, I will wait for it also was it a good idea to follow you?

Jennifer: Well, I did get to meet Hiki and Tori.

Chazz: And Shizen sooner then you should have.

Jennifer: That to, she is hiding something though.  Sometimes she looks a little sad.

Chazz: Well, all spirits have their pasts; I learned Hiki and Tori’s.

Jennifer: Really, could you tell me a little about it.

Chazz: Well, Hiki is a light spirit as you know but she was also is the daughter of a 2nd generation light guardian which are the spirits that protect the spirit world, powerful ones indeed.

Jennifer: I see, it explains why she is so powerful.

Chazz: Yes.

Jennifer: What about Tori?

Chazz: Tori as you know is the student of the 1st generation darkness spirit as he is a 3rd generation, but he once had the desire for power to protect his new family that he would do anything to get it.  His master put him into place and taught him that what he truly wanted was to strive forward to change his fate as darkness.

Jennifer: I see, it is similar to Yami’s story but whoever he was with seemed to have taught him to grab as much power as possible no matter what.

Chazz: That is the difference.

Jennifer: It is hard to think Tori could be like a grown up like Yami though he is well mannered and kind like you.

Chazz: Well because he was taught to not act like the others unless he needs to.  I taught him the gentlemanly manners.

Jennifer: Wow I cannot imagine what they were like when you first met them then.

Chazz: They were very similar to how they are now but just a bit looser in actions.

Jennifer: I bet it must be fun having them around.

Chazz: It does make my days interesting with them around.  I have gained very close bond with them.

Jennifer: I can tell they are very close to you.

Chazz: Very.

Jennifer: Hiki told me that you go out every day on the 22nd of June to town with them and have fun.

Chazz: We do it as a birthday in a way, but it became a tradition since I care about them both very much.  I am not sure how I would be without them.

Jennifer: And that you save up for a long time to have that day.

Chazz: I do what I can just walking around with them is great.  (Kooks down looking a little sad).

Jennifer: Well do not worry about what you cannot do for that day.  I am giving you a bonus.

Chazz: Milady thank you but there is no need.  I am fine truly.

Jennifer: No, it is a special day for you, Hiki and Tori.  You cannot change my mind.

Chazz: Well, I guess I can accept it just this once though.

Jennifer: No every year on that day… Hmm how much would be enough; a thousand each should work.

Chazz: No milady only a hundred, no need to go crazy.

Jennifer: But you do need to go crazy at least one day of the year and this is it, a thousand for all but that is final.

Chazz: Fine I cannot deny my madam far more than I have.

Jennifer: No, you may but I still will sneak the money into your pocket so enjoy it, you deserve it.  We could even throw you a party when you get back.

Chazz: No need, I want to keep it the way it is, just us three.

Jennifer: I can respect that.

Chazz: Thank you for the offer though.

Jennifer: Though do not tell Kairi.  She will go overboard.

Chazz: I do not plan too.

Jennifer: Yes, and could you tell me about when you first met them.  Did you fight yourself like I did?

Chazz: At first, I met them I did not know what to do.  Hiki was ready to be my spirit but with Tori, he wanted me to prove I was ready since I was very young so I had to fight them both at the same time.  It was quite difficult, but I lost the fight though I had proven I could stand my own so Tori accepted me and my skills on the condition that I train with him whenever possible.

Jennifer: Seems fair enough, I can tell you work hard.

Chazz: I worked very hard, then my skills grew as I kept training.

Jennifer: Good… I think I can learn from that.

Chazz: It is also good to have a relationship with your spirit.

Jennifer: I can see that from how close you are to your spirits.

Chazz: Plus, at first Hiki and Tori did not get along all too well, but they grew into their relationship now.

Jennifer: Really wow I would have never imagined.

Chazz: Light and dark do not usually get along, but some do.

Jennifer: I wonder if Kura and Yami will ever get along like they do.

Chazz: It takes time, when Tori said team practice, he was trying to get Yami to rely on others more.

Jennifer: (Laughs a little).  Good luck with that.  Yami seems to have a temper tantrum at the thought.

Chazz: Well, he will be forced to at least know how to work with Kura.

Jennifer: I can tell Tori will keep him in line, but Yami does need to control taking energy.

Chazz: He really does.

Jennifer: But Kura seems willing to train though she is quiet.

Chazz: Yes, she does.

Jennifer: But she said she did not like to fight.

Chazz: She is more of a support type of person.  She cannot do much combat wise but her being in a fight could change the fight entirely.

Jennifer: Makes sense, Yami seems to rush in without thinking and Kura thinks a battle through, I guess.

Chazz: Exactly those two together are a good team, just need to start acting like it.

Jennifer: Yes well, we are almost there.  (Sees everyone and waves).

Chazz: Yes, we will see what happens.

Jennifer: Indeed, but let’s enjoy lunch first.

Chazz: Yes milady.

Jennifer: Hello everyone.

Kairi: Hi what took you so long?

Jennifer: … Really?  You know we had the food, right?

Kairi: Oh right.

Chazz: (Laughs a bit).

Shizen: Welcome back, so what did you make for lunch?

Chazz: I just made some sandwiches if that is alright.

Shizen: Sounds fine.

Kura: I am pleased with anything you make.

Yami: (Sounding grumpy).  Guess I’m a little hungry?

Kura: As good a mood as ever, I see.

Yami: Whatever.

Chazz: Thank you Kura and Mr. Yami you will be fighting with Hiki and Tori after we are done so I recommend getting your energy up.

Hiki and Tori: (Suddenly appear behind Chazz and Hiki lays her head on Chazz’s shoulder.

Yami: Sounds fun I get to pay you back for last time and this time I won’t lose.

Kura: (Sighs).  And what if you fight both of them.  You will need help.

Yami: I don’t need help.  I’ll take both of you on I don’t care.

Kura: (Sighs again and shakes her head).

Hiki: What’s wrong Kura?

Kura: It is nothing he should probably fight you two alone to learn he needs my help.

Yami: Ha yeah right!

Hiki and Tori: (Sits downs to eat with everyone).

Jennifer: I made brownies too.

Shizen: Very nice.

Hiki: Yay brownies, I love brownies!

Tori: Thank you Madam Jenny.

Jennifer: It was Chazz’s choice on what to make.

Hiki: Yay good choice master!  (Kisses Chazz on the forehead).

Chazz: Hiki what are you doing at this hour?

Hiki: (Laughs a bit teasingly).

Jennifer: (Blushes a little at seeing them but also smiles thinking they are cute).

Chazz: Well, let’s eat.

Jennifer: Yes lets.

Yami: (Starts to go for the brownie but a vine grabs his hand).  What the?

Shizen: That is for after lunch as a desert.  You must eat a sandwich first.

Yami: What, you got to be kidding me?

Shizen: (Gives a serious look).  Does it look like I am kidding?

Chazz: Brownies are for desert only Yami.

Yami: Oh, come on, that’s not fair at all.

Shizen: Yes, it is, now eat.

Kairi: (Hands Yami a sandwich).

Yami: Not cool.  (Eats grumpily along with everyone else but stares at the brownies as he eats).

Hiki: These are really good.

Tori: They really are.

Kairi: Yummy what’s in them?

Chazz: Just some ham and cheese or honey turkey in the others.

Kairi: Ooh I think mine tastes like turkey.

Jennifer: I have ham.

Kairi: Can we trade?  I like ham more.

Jennifer: Sure.  (Switches sandwiches with Kairi).  Very good.

Yami: Gross why eat a sandwich another person ate when you don’t have to?

Jennifer: … Umm?

Kairi: Wait what?

Yami: What?  Just don’t like sharing food.

Jennifer: Umm.

Chazz: Not all people like that.

Jennifer: I see.

Yami: What’s the problem, it’s gross.

Kairi: Want the rest of my sandwich?

Yami: No! (He pauses though as if a debate with his stomach).

Hiki: (Crawls over to Yami).  How about mine Yami?

Yami: No, go away.

Shizen: So, you’re afraid of germs or is it cooties?  Are you just making something up to be grumpy about?  I think that is what is really going on here.

Yami: No, I’m not!

Hiki: (Gets closer to Yami).

Yami: (Back up a little).  W-what are you doing, go away!

Shizen: (Smirks).  What are you planning?

Hiki: (Gets even closer to Yami, at face-to-face level as her hair goes down).

Yami: (Looks a little scared).  Backup… I’ll push you if I have to.

Hiki: (Blows into his ear as she says).  Want to have my sandwich?

Yami: N-no now go away.

Hiki: Are you sure (Exposes the top part of her dress slightly showing a little bit of cleavage).

Yami: (Pushes Hiki away but pushes her chest and then turns and sits with his back facing Hiki with his arms crossed).  Go away!

Hiki: Now, now you can’t touch a lady’s chest without permission, Yami bad boy.

Yami: Wait what no I didn’t mean, I mean I meant to get you away, now go away!  (Becomes embarrassed though more pout and grumpy still).

Hiki: You are so cute when embarrassed.

Chazz: Now, now Hiki do not tease.  Be a good girl.

Hiki: (Back off as soon as Chazz says too).  Now master you are the only one worth teasing.

Shizen: Though that was funny to watch I may want to remind you he still has the brain of a child.

Jennifer: (Looks in shock at what just happened as Kairi looks just confused).

Hiki: I know, that’s why it was easy.

Jennifer: (Laughs a little bit).

Kura: (Has a small smile that she covers).

Chazz: now, now Hiki I understand it was fun but no teasing the young one.

Hiki: Would you rather have me tease you master?

Chazz: You already do that, what is different?

Tori: (Shakes his head in agreement).

Yami: Hey I’m not that young.  I’m older than you.  (Points at Chazz).

Jennifer: (Laughs more).

Chazz: But I am not a spirit now, am I?

Yami: Well still am.

Shizen: But intelligence wise Chazz is about… what 10 years ahead?

Yami: Hey!

Hiki and Tori: (laugh a bit as well).

Shizen: Yes, he does act a bit younger than his age.  I don’t think he can even comprehend perverted thoughts.

Yami: Shut up, I can understand!

Kairi: Understand what?

Jennifer: Uh oh not again….

Chazz: Now, now let’s all settle down and eat.

Jennifer: Please.

Yami: Yeah, yeah just stay away from me.

Shizen: Kairi what are you confused about?

Jennifer: (Looks at Shizen in shock and fear and then at Kairi).

Kairi: Sis why do you look so scared?

Jennifer: Let’s just save the questions for later.

Shizen: Hmm?

Hiki: (Lays on Chazz’s lap and Tori sits up next to him as they finish eating and drinking their juices).

Kairi: (Looks at Chazz and Hiki and opens her mouth to say something about them being in a relationship or not but Jennifer sees her stare knowing what is going through her mind and quickly covers Kairi’s mouth).

Chazz: (Looks at both Jennifer and Kairi with confusion).

Jennifer: Do not worry about it, keep eating.  (Nervously laughs).

Kairi: (Licks Jennifer’s hand so she lets go).

Jennifer: (Let’s go quickly).  Hey gross!  Why did you lick my hand?

Kairi: (Heavily breaths).  Why cover my mouth and nose… I could not breathe.

Jennifer: … Oops.

Yami: (Looks disgusted as he slides away from Jennifer and Kairi).

Tori: You are not going anywhere Yami.

Yami: What I do?  I wouldn’t run away from something so meaningless.

Tori: If it is meaningless why blush from Hiki.

Yami: (Blushes with embarrassment).  I did not!

Hiki: If you would like me to tease you again, I would be more than I am happy too.

Yami: Whatever I’m not scared of you.

Tori: Oh, you are not?

Yami: Nope not at all.

Shizen: What about if a dog came up to you and slobbered on you?

Yami: (Looks slightly terrified at the thought).

Hiki: (Laughs a bit at the thought).

Yami: N-no not scared at all.

Shizen: Are you sure about that?  (Looks at Hiki for her to decide as she smirks).

Hiki: (Shakes her head yes).

Shizen: (Nods to Hiki).  Yami what scares you so much about this?  (Leans to the side of her where Yami is sitting and gives him a slobbery dog kiss and then looks for his reaction seeing Yami is frozen in shock and terror as everyone else stares at him to see what happens).

Yami: (Is frozen as he processes what just happened).

Kairi: I think you broke him.

Chazz: Shizen though it was funny I suggest someone get a towel or cloth for Yami.

Yami: (Dogs and wolves come out of the clearing of the trees and tackle Yami as they give him kisses as he struggles to get away).  Gah help!

Kairi: Whoa where did they come from!

Chazz: Shizen if you may.

Shizen: Though I do find this funny I did not call the other dogs and wolves.

Jennifer: (Quietly drinks her juice with her eyes close).

Chazz: (Quickly stares at Jennifer).  Milady, did you?

Jennifer: (Puts her juice down and smiles politely but with a slight smirk and then opens her eyes which are green and glowing slightly).

Chazz: (Sighs).  Milady why?

Jennifer: I thought it was funny.

Yami: Help!

Jennifer: That is enough.  (The dogs stop and run back to where they had come from).

Yami: (Soaked in slobber).  … So gross.

Jennifer: There is a lake not far from here you can wash up, it is directly north of here.

Yami: (Instantly runs toward the lake as fast as he can).

Hiki: (Laughs along with Tori).  Nice one Jenny.

Jennifer: (Smirks).  What are you talking about?  I had nothing to do with that… But thank you.

Chazz: Whatever you say milady.

Jennifer: Yes indeed.

Kairi: Whoa your eyes are glowing.

Chazz: You did not know that lady Kairi?

Kairi: No, never really paid attention.

Jennifer: Alright then.

Chazz: Well, we should wait for him.

Jennifer: Does anyone have a towel?

Kairi: I kind of want to go swimming now.

Chazz: Why don’t we go then?

Jennifer: Are you sure?  We do not have swimsuits.

Kairi: Well not exactly, they actually do.

Jennifer: Huh?

Chazz: Spirits can make their own remember.

Kairi: Oh yes and also the ones I bought.

Jennifer: You just got one of everything for everyone didn’t you?

Kairi: Umm maybe.

Chazz: (Laughs).  Well let’s go get changed then.

Kairi: You do not have to wear the ones I got everyone if Hiki and Tori can just poof on clothes.  I am still confused about that, but I wish I could do that.

Hiki: No, no if you got them for us, it would be rude to not wear them so let’s go.

Tori: Yes, let us see what you got.

Kairi: A-alright but the rest I am just sending to you.  We do not have to open them together.

Jennifer: (Smiles).  Wait won’t Yami wonder where we are?

Chazz: Do you want to grab him first.

Jennifer: I do not think he will be happy.

Hiki: When is he ever?

Jennifer: (Laughs).  True but he will be in an even worse mood.

Chazz: True.

Jennifer: Let’s head over to the mansion and meet him there.  We will not be too long.  (Stands up along with everyone else).

Kairi: Let’s go!

Jennifer: (Notices that Kura and Chazz stick behind).  Are you coming?

Kura:Yes but I would rather read then swim, my apologies.  (Bows).

Jennifer: If you do not want to it is fine.

Chazz: I will be getting everything ready; I will go lay out the towels as such.  Kura would you like to keep me company?

Kura: Of course, I would be happy to help.

Jennifer: Very well we will see you in a little bit.

Chazz: Thank you very much.  (Bows to Kura).

Kura: (Bows in return).

Jennifer: Where did you learn to act like a servant?

Kura: (Pauses as if trying to think of an answer to say).  I have had a few masters who were nobles, and it became a habit of mine.

Chazz: It is also a set of manners to be polite and kind to all.

Kura: That is why I kept those teachings.

Chazz: Then you were taught well.

Kura: (Bows to Chazz once again).  Thank you.

Chazz: Let’s be going now.

Jennifer: Very well we will meet you by the lake or my room if you are not long.

Kairi: Bye!

Kura: Farewell lady Kairi.  (Leaves with Chazz).

Shizen: I think I will be taking a nap while you change.  I will come back when you are done.

Hiki: Alright Shizen.  (Waves goodbye and so does everyone else).

Shizen: (Nods and fades away).

Jennifer: Yes, let’s continue on our way.

Kairi: I will race you there!

Jennifer: Do I have to really run?

Hiki: I will race you Kairi.

Kairi: Great let’s go.  (Instantly runs off very quickly with a shadowed streak behind her).

Jennifer: Your supposed to start at the same- and she is gone.

Hiki: It’s fine, I can catch up.  (Runs off in a flash of light going much faster and catching up to Kairi).

Jennifer: (Laughs as she shakes her head).  Tori won’t you go with?

Tori: (Laughs as well).  I rather not.

Jennifer: Yes, I think Hiki has everyone beat when it comes to speed.

Tori: Maybe.

Jennifer: Maybe?

Tori: I think lady Kairi is the only one to give Hiki much of a challenge.

Jennifer: Really but she just learned how to do that recently, however, give her a cup of coffee and everyone will have to run… Seriously do not give her coffee.

Tori: I know now, thank you for the tip.

Jennifer: And I want to apologize to you.

Tori: For what?

Jennifer: I gave you mean looks when around my sister, there was no call for that.  I was being protective of her and probably will do the same at other times for future notice towards you.  I was out of line though, I am sorry.

Tori: No, I understand, I could tell you were just looking out for your sister.

Jennifer: Yes, but was improper of me to do.  I am sorry I just… She’s growing up to fast.

Tori: Most do, you just have to accept it.

Jennifer: I know but she will always be my little sister and I will look out for her….

 

Meanwhile far ahead Hiki reaches Kairi easily.

Kairi: (Laughs as she is having fun).  Aww you caught up.

Hiki: I can do more than catch up.  (Runs further ahead).

Kairi: Hey!  (Run as fast as she can now behind Hiki not able to pass her but is able to sort of keep up).

Hiki: Ohh you can keep up?  Let me get serious then.  (Goes so fast that she makes a zoom sound as she runs).

Kairi: No fair!  (Starts to lag behind a little as she tries to think of something).

Hiki: (Goes even faster).

Kairi: (Looks very determined trying to move faster but only catches up a little).

Jennifer: They know they passed the mansion, right?

Tori: I doubt it.

Jennifer: At this point we may win if they go any further.

Tori: Might as well, after you.

Jennifer: Why thank you but do you want to run or not?

Tori: Nah.

Jennifer: Good.  (Continues to walk with Tori).  So, when do you think they will come back?

Tori: I am not sure.

Jennifer: Oh well they are having fun.

Tori: True.

Jennifer: Is it just me or is Kairi getting habits from Hiki?

Tori: What do you mean?

Jennifer: Well, there are some things that remind me of Hiki that Kairi does.  I do not know how to explain it.

Tori: Well, Hiki is like the female side of master so she takes on some qualities of him and also has her own bubbly personality so maybe that’s why.

Jennifer: I swear if Kairi learns how to tease like Hiki does I am going to have a problem.

Tori: No need to worry.  Hiki only does it from time to time plus she just embraces her womanly charms.

Jennifer: Makes sense, well we are almost there.  Should we go get them or yell to get them in?

Tori: Up to you.

Jennifer: (Yells as loud as she can).  Hey Hiki, Kairi time to get back here!

Kairi: Huh what’s sis saying?

Hiki: I think that it’s time to head back.

Kairi: Wow we went far.

Hiki: Oh yeah.

Kairi: Wait I can still win; I am closer now!  (Makes a 180 back to the mansion).

Hiki: (Panics for a second and then just zooms past Kairi at the speed of light).

Kairi: Hey!  (Picks up her speed a bit but can only get close enough that Hiki can be seen ahead of her but gets an idea looking at shadows that they pass quickly trying to focus on them as they pass).

Hiki: (Sees the shadows and puts a light on some).

Kairi: (Pouts).  Hey no fair.

Hiki: (Laughs).

Kairi: (Pushes herself as fast as she can go only catching up a little but looks determined).

Hiki: (Slows down a bit to talk to Kairi).  Are you alright Kairi?

Kairi: Sorry, I kind of get competitive.  How do you run so fast?

Hiki: Well, I am light, so it is easy.  I just devoted time into my ability.

Kairi: Oh, and do you want to know something.

Hiki: What?

Kairi: I have been slowing down the whole time we have talked now.

Hiki: Ahh alright.

Kairi: So, I could do this!  (Goes as fast as she can now that they are almost to the finish line).

Hiki: (Speeds ahead of Kairi).

Kairi: Aww.  (Tries to pass Hiki but cannot, Hiki winning and making it to Jennifer and Kairi’s room first).

Hiki: (Gets to the room after running through the house).

Jennifer: (Peaks out of Kairi’s room seeing Hiki run in).  Hello Hiki, have a good run where’s Kairi?

Kairi: (Zooms in behind Hiki).

Jennifer: Ah never mind.

Kairi: (Pouts but then cannot help but laugh).  That was fun!

Hiki: It really was nice running with you but why are you able to run that fast?

Kairi: I do not know.  I just really like to run, and Kura taught me a little.

Jennifer: Your saying Kairi kept up with you?

Hiki: Just a couple of seconds behind but basically, I was still in eye distance which is good.  (Puts her fingers together).

Kairi: I can do better next time.

Jennifer: Good job but neither of you won.

Kairi: (Gives a confused look).

Hiki: Ohh.

Tori: How was it being in last place?

Jennifer: Tori, I think you were the first one in the room, so you win.

Kairi: Hey no fair, you were not in the race.

Tori: Technically we all were since the goal was your room.

Kairi: But you were not racing so that does not count.

Jennifer: But we still got here first.

Tori: there was no way we could try anyways.

Kairi: Tori, I thought you were fast too?

Jennifer: Hey what about me?

Tori: No, no I’m never as fast as Hiki.

Hiki: Tori you’re so mean for cheating.  (Starts hitting Tori’s back).

Tori: Hey, hey that’s enough Hiki.

Hiki: (Makes a pouty face).

Jennifer: How did he cheat?  You are the one who went past our house.

Hiki: He just is.  (Continues to pout).

Tori: (Pets Hiki’s head).  Hey, it’s fine, next time it will be fair, promise.

Kairi: Better be.  (Pouts as well and crosses her arms).

Jennifer: Looks like we have 2 sore losers.

Hiki and Kairi: Hey!

Tori: (Laughs).

Kairi: (Looks at Hiki as she smiles).  We should tickle them as pay back.

Jennifer: Wait what?

Hiki: We should.

Tori: (Gives a confused look).

Jennifer: Tori run!  (Tries to get away but Kairi grabs her and both of them fall over).

Hiki: (Readies her hands to tickle Tori).

Jennifer: Run!  (Tries to get up Kairi holding her down and laughing so she cannot as she panics not able to get away).

Tori: I accept my fate knowing I was number one.

Hiki: (Smile at Tori).

Kairi: Show off.

Tori: Just a bit.

Kairi: (Starts to tickle Jennifer’s legs making her laugh uncontrollable).

Hiki: (Tickles Tori’s feet and the same thing happens).

Jennifer: (In-between laughing).  Help me!

Kairi: No stay still!

Jennifer: Fine two can play at that game!  (Tickles Kairi’s sides and she laughs but still tickles).

Kairi: Hey no stop!

Jennifer: No, you!

Tori: (Gets Hiki’s feet and makes it a circle of tickling, everyone laughs for a good 5 minutes but everyone gets tired and collapse exhausted lying on the ground).

Jennifer: (Out of breath).  I… Think we… Are done here….

Kairi: What… Did we… Come here for?

Jennifer: I do not remember… My mind is exhausted… Can anyone get up?

Kairi: I do not want… To.

Hiki: (Breaths heavily as well).  We… Came here… To get changed.

Jennifer: Oh yeah.

Kairi: Anybody else able to get up?

Jennifer: No, you are on me.

Kairi: Sorry to hear that… Goodnight.

Hiki: Goodnight….  (Falls asleep on Tori who just accepts it).

Jennifer: (Tiredly laughs).  They’re both asleep… Chazz will be waiting for us.

 

Meanwhile while the race and the tickle fight had happened Chazz and Kura gather the towels.

Kura: They are gone, shall I get the towels?

Chazz: Yes, we shall go together.

Kura: Where are they?

Chazz: They are held in the storage area in the back.

Kura: I see then lead the way.

Chazz: As you say Miss Kura.

Kura: No, I follow your orders since you are a butler, and I am only trained as a lower servant.  Therefore, you are in charge.

Chazz: Well, this is something servants do together, quite an odd couple now isn’t it?

Kura: Pardon me but what are you trying to say?

Chazz: Oh nothing, it is just who do you follow, a servant or a servant?

Kura: I see but you know where everything is which makes you in charge.

Chazz: True enough.

Kura: Now to teach Yami the way of being a servant, though I have little hope for that.

Chazz: Why do you want to teach him to be a servant?

Kura: He needs to be taught manners and blend into this area.

Chazz: That is true, but he does not need to be made a servant.

Kura: How else will he be able to walk with Kairi through the halls if he does not learn simple manners.  People will question him.

Chazz: Just because you have manners does not mean you are treated as a servant.  Spirits are friends to me; they are wonderful because you grow a relationship with someone that will always be there for you.

Kura: Though I have made friends out of my previous masters I was told to follow their every order.

Chazz: No matter the order?

Kura: (Nods looking downwards but quickly hides it).  Unfortunately, in some cases but I have had some good masters.

Chazz: Well now that is not right.

Kura: How so?

Chazz: Though I do understand to follow orders, but you should still have a say of right and wrong.

Kura: Yes, I am in many cases aloud to say something about my task but it is their decision in the end.

Chazz: But that is not right.  You are not a slave.

Kura: But some seemed to had thought so… so I expected it.

Chazz: You should not Miss Kura.

Kura: I am fine with it.  Kairi seems like a very caring person.  I will have no problem with whatever orders she gives me.

Chazz: Whatever you say.

Kura: If you have any more questions about me, feel free to ask.

Chazz: I will, no need to worry on that.

Kura: Then feel free to ask… I am open with my past and abilities.  (There is still a sense that she is hiding something).

Chazz: Well then if you are, what are you capable of doing or do I have to wait for your team fight with Hiki and Tori.

Kura: I am mainly support in a fight usually more defensive when fighting on my own with not very many offensive abilities.  I could use barriers quite creatively to do so thought.

Chazz: I see, your support but what more can you do?

Kura: One of the abilities I am best at is creating barriers.

Chazz: I see.

Kura: I was very impressed with the one you put up during training this morning.

Chazz: It was because I had both Hiki and Tori helping me.

Kura: I could tell they are both very skilled and make a good team.

Chazz: At first not so much.  They had their disagreements since they are light and dark, but they grew up together and learned to work as a team.  Even the most opposite of people can learn to work together.

Kura: And become incredibly strong.

Chazz: Yes so, I expect the same result from you and Yami.

Kura: I will do my best to work with him, but I cannot promise that he will do the same.

Chazz: It takes time Miss Kura; until you two get into teamwork because separate you will not be able to best Hiki and Tori.

Kura: Yami will try to best them himself.  Maybe be needs to realize he needs my help before we fight together.

Chazz: He will learn the hard way.

Kura: He could not even beat Tori by himself.  What makes him think he can fight Hiki as well.

Chazz: His ego and whatever happened in his past had corrupted his mind to follow power and that is a bad path.  He needs to gain his own mind set.

Kura: (Looks downward in sadness).  Yes, but he is you so he is not far gone, it will take time though.

Chazz: Yes, it will, and this fight will help a lot.

Kura: Indeed, shall I fight them alone as well, so it is fair?

Chazz: No, it is a team fight.  It would be better if you are together, but it is up to you two how you fight, also the way to win is to keep fighting until both are unable to fight or they give up.

Kura: I see, I will do my best.

Chazz: Tori told me you did quite well with working with him.

Kura: Do you mean when we went to get Yami after he ran away?

Chazz: Yes, Tori was keeping me updated.

Kura: I was only trying to help.

Chazz: I know, and Tori appreciated it, but he was worried for your safety.

Kura: There is no need to worry for my safety…  Yes, if I had not put a barrier around myself, I would have been hurt but that is not what happened… Only weakened.

Chazz: That may be the case, but Tori is a bit of a worried type of person when it comes to people put in harm’s way.

Kura: I understand and I apologies for worrying him.

Chazz: No need to be sorry to me.

Kura: I will say I am next time I see him.

Chazz: He will probably say “no need to be sorry I’m just happy you are alright” or something like that.  (Laughs).

Kura: (Smiles).  I see but I still will and find some way to pay him back for his kindness.

Chazz: Well, it is up to you.

Kura: Yes, and another of my abilities that I have not used often with other masters is that I am able to heal dark spirits very quickly, but it only comes in use when I am around other dark spirits like I am now.

Chazz: Well very helpful in a team fight cause because you can heal Yami while he fights.

Kura: But will he let me or just take the energy from me is the question.

Chazz: He needs to handle that.

Kura: (Looks down again seeming to know more then she tells about the subject with some sadness showing more).  It seems to be one of his abilities but one he cannot control well.

Chazz: He will need to, or Tori will seal it away and he does not want that.

Kura: (Looks slightly frightened by the idea).  Yes… Let it not comes to that.

Chazz: If he goes out of control it is an option.

Kura: I could always put a barrier around those affected.

Chazz: True.

Kura: But the barrier would slowly be absorbed since it is made by a dark spirit.

Chazz: I figured that.

Kura: Yes, it will be interesting what happens in the fight.

Chazz: Very, Hiki would have an advantage.

Kura: That is true, she would not be affected.

Chazz: Yes, well we are here now let’s get the towels. (Opens the door).

Kura: Very well how many should we bring.  I know there will be 7 of us but maybe we should bring extras.

Chazz: Sounds good.

Kura: (Grabs a stack of towels).

Chazz: Also, I want to mention something.  If Miss Kairi was faced against a real enemy with the desire to kill, how would you act?

Kura: I would protect her with my life.

Chazz: Good.

Kura: She has just started training she cannot fight yet but I understand she needs to prepare just in case.

Chazz: At the moment the only way she can fight is with you and Yami so that’s why we are trying to get you two to work together because it could make the difference between saving a life or losing three.

Kura: I would ask the same question to Yami as well but know that if someone has the intention of hurting lady Kairi.  (Gives a serious look).  I will not hesitate to step in.

Chazz: I would be proud, and Miss Jennifer would be grateful.

Kura: I thank you for agreeing with my response now shall we start heading to the lake?

Chazz: Yes, but I think we should see if they are in Lady Kairi’s room.

Kura: I will follow.

Chazz: Alright.  (Grabs some towels and walks out with Kura).

Kura: If you have any other questions, please let me know.

Chazz: I will.  (Leads the way and walks down the hallway to Kairi’s room).

Kura: Why do I hear so much laughter?

Chazz: I think we will find out.  (Walks into the room seeing Jennifer, Hiki, Tori and Kairi on the floor looking exhausted). Umm what is going on?

Hiki: Umm we are taking a nap.

Tori: We had a tickle fight.

Hiki: Whelp.

Jennifer: Oh, hello yes there was a race and Tori and I won so Hiki tickled Tori and Kairi tickled me and now Kairi is asleep on me.

Hiki: She is, a nap does sound good. (Goes back to resting on Tori).

Jennifer: But we need to get up and get changed.  (Tries to get up but fails since Kairi is on her). Well, I tried.

Tori: Oh, ok then.

Jennifer: Any ideas?

Hiki: Oh yeah, we need to get changed.  I can start now.  (Gets up and begins to undress).

Chazz and Tori: No Hiki stop!

Hiki: (Puts the strap of her dress back up).  No fun.

Jennifer: (Laughs and face palms). I have a feeling this happens a lot.

Kairi: (Wakes up and yawns).  What happens a lot?

Chazz: No not really.

Tori: (Walks over to Kairi).  Good morning, Miss Kairi.

Kairi: (Rubs her eyes and sits up a little).  It is morning already?  I slept all day.

Tori: No, it’s the same day.

Kairi: Oh right, what are we doing now?

Hiki: Getting changed to go swimming.

Kairi: (Smiles as she remembers).  Oh right, I will get the ones I got you.  (Gets up quickly stepping on Jennifer).

Jennifer: Ahh that hurt!

Kairi: Oops sorry sis… When did you get there?

Jennifer: You fell asleep on me.

Kairi: Oops sorry.

Chazz and Tori: (Laugh a bit).

Jennifer: Laughing at me when getting hurt.  Some butlers you are.

Chazz: No, no I just laughed at what Miss Kairi said.

Kairi: (Gives a confused look).  What did I do?

Jennifer: Just forget it.

Chazz: Yes, yes Kura and I have the towels for everyone.

Kairi: Ooh I want pink.

Jennifer: I will take blue.

Kura: Mine is blue as well.

Hiki: What do I get?

Jennifer: Looks like you have a choice of pink, green, red, and blue that’s left.

Hiki: I will take blue then.

Kairi: Save the red one for Yami.  I think he likes that color.

Chazz: Alright.

Jennifer: Alright that leaves green and pink and 2 men.  (Smiles as she thinks about one of them getting the pink towel and tries not to laugh).

Hiki: Ooh master want pink?

Chazz: Umm I must decline.

Jennifer: Well then, the pink one goes to Tori.

Kairi: What is wrong with pink?  It is my favorite color.

Tori: Nothing.

Jennifer: Are you saying you are willing to take the pink towel?

Tori: Sure.

Kairi: And it means we have matching towels!

Jennifer: ….

Tori: Is that a problem?

Jennifer: hmm oh no, oh no… All good.

Kairi: (Smiles). I am still confused on how spirits poof clothes on.  Can you change the style automatically?  I want to do that, then I would not have to buy clothes.

Jennifer: You still would though.

Hiki: We just focus our energy really then they appear and stay on like real clothes.

Kairi: But any style, no sewing, no picking out fabric?

Jennifer: Wow you are amazed by that.

Kairi: (Shrugs).  I like making and buying clothing.

Hiki: We are able to think of any combinations and it makes things fun.

Kairi: Can you show me how to do that?

Jennifer: I am not sure we can, but Hiki is wearing a dress I gave her.

Hiki: I can’t really teach you.

Kairi: Aww.  (Pouts).

Kura: It is alright lady Kairi.

Hiki: Yes, and Jenny helped me put this dress on.

Kairi: Wow reminds me of when she helped me when I was little.  Did she have a lot of trouble with it?

Jennifer: (Looks embarrassed).

Hiki: No just that my chest was a bit harder for her.

Kairi: (Gives a confused look).

Jennifer: Moving on from that, Kairi can you get the swimsuits?

Kairi: Alright!  (Runs into her closet which looks like two servants’ rooms put together and with clothing everywhere).

Hiki: Ooh big closet.

Jennifer: Yes, when we got our rooms, I got the bigger room with a smaller closet, and she got a smaller room with a giant closet.  It is good she did with how well she shops.

Chazz: Yes, indeed I remember all of the other times.  (Shakes a bit with fear).

Jennifer: (Laughs).

Kairi: You can come in, there is enough room.

Hiki: Alright.  (Heads in along with everyone else).

Kairi: (Picks up some boxes but wobbles a bit with so many boxes that no one can see her head).

Hiki: Whoa!

Kairi: (Walks forward but trips on a shoe and falls into Tori since she could not see where she was going).  Whoa!

Tori: (Catches Kairi easily).

Kairi: That was close thank you, oh Tori it is you thank you and sorry I could not see.

Tori: No, no it’s fine as long as you are alright.

Kairi: I am alright, thank you.  (Puts down the boxes).

Tori: Want me to help?

Kairi: No, we can just open the boxes here.

Tori: Alright.

Kairi: (Sits down along with everyone else and starts to hand out boxes).

Hiki: (Gets her box first and opens it excitedly seeing a white two-piece swimsuit with a black border).  Ooh how cute.

Tori: (Receives his box at the same time Hiki got hers and opens it seeing swim trunks that are black with a white border).  Very nice.

Kairi: I think there is also a seashell hair thing in your box too Hiki.

Hiki: (Finds the crystal hair clip).  Ooh.

Kairi: I thought you would like it.  It is made of crystal.  Alright Chazz this one is yours.  (Hands one box to Chazz).

Chazz: Hmm (opens the box and finds swim trunks with different shades of grey on them).  Ohh.

Kairi: I hope you like them!

Chazz: I do thank you.

Kairi: This one is sis swimsuit.

Jennifer: Why thank you.  (Opens a box and finds there is a green 2-piece swimsuit with a blue border and a little skirt as she blushes as she looks at it).  Oh t-thank you.

Hiki: Why are you blushing Jenny?

Jennifer: Oh nothing….  It is just I never have worn something like this.

Kairi: Oh, you never wore a two-piece swimsuit?  I can get you another one.

Jennifer: No, no it is fine….

Hiki: I bet you will look cute in its Jenny.

Jennifer: T-thank you.

Kairi: I do not see what the big deal is.

Jennifer: Of course, you do not.

Kairi: (Gives a confused look as Hiki smiles but continues to hand out boxes).  Anyways this one is yours Kura.

Kura: Why thank you Miss Kairi, you are far too generous.

Kairi: It is no big deal, your welcome.

Kura: (Opens the box seeing a blue swimsuit with black polka dots).  Why thank you Miss Kairi.

Kairi: I am happy you like it!

Hiki: I want to get changed now.  (Grabs Jennifer’s hand).  Let’s go Jenny!

Kairi: Where are you going?

Hiki: To her room to get changed.

Kairi: Wait we have to leave my room just to get changed?

Hiki: If you want you.

Jennifer: Wait then where will the men change?

Hiki: They can in the bathroom.

Kairi: But mines beside the closet.  (Points to a door on the side of the closet).

Jennifer: Then we can stay here, and the men can change in my bathroom.

Chazz: Yes milady.

Jennifer: But if one of you looks through my stuff your dead got it.

Kairi: It is not like they will try on your clothes.

Jennifer: … Not what I meant.

Chazz: … We will not.

Jennifer: How did you even think of that?

Kairi: You have to admit it is a funny thought.

Jennifer: (Pauses and then laughs and shakes her head).  I prefer not to while they are here.

Chazz: Hmm.  (Leaves with Tori).

Jennifer: They do know my rooms locked right, oh wait Chazz has a key never mind.

Kairi: Why does Chazz have a key to your room?

Jennifer: He is my butler.

Kairi: So, he gets a key?

Hiki: He does.

Jennifer: Kairi where is your swimsuit?

Kairi: Right here.  (Opens a box that has a one piece swimsuit that is pink and with a frilly flowery skirt and black polka dots).

Hiki: Ooh so cute.

Jennifer: I like it, well let’s get changed. (Starts to undress but stops getting a little self-conscious again).  Oh, Hiki do you want me to help you first?

Hiki: I think I can figure it out.  It seems the same as putting on underwear.

Jennifer: Yes, the only difference is there is a thing to tie in the back.

Hiki: Then I may need some help.  (Makes her hair go fully straight down).

Jennifer: When you get there I will help.

Kairi: Still want to see how spirits poof clothes on.  That is the best power I have heard of.

Jennifer: You really need to let that go.

Hiki: I can understand her wanting to know, it is fine.

Jennifer: I suppose.

Kairi: I will stop, sorry it just would be nice to poof clothes on instead of changing them this way.

Jennifer: Wow lazy a little lazy there sis.

Hiki: (Laughs).  It kind of is.

Kairi: (Pouts).  Hey!

Jennifer: Come on, you need to get changed.

Kairi: I know but not nice.

Hiki: (Starts to blush).

Jennifer: Is something wrong Hiki?

Hiki: Umm I seem to be having trouble….

Jennifer: Is it the tie on the back of the swimsuit or something else?

Hiki: Yes.  (Holds up her swimsuit top to her chest as she tries to hold it on).

Jennifer: Alright let me help.

Kura: Would you like me to help?

Jennifer: No, I’ve got it, you can finish getting dressed.

Kairi: So, do you, your still in a under dress.

Jennifer: (Blushes).  I will… Just when everyone leaves or does not need help….

Hiki: Why not when everyone leaves?

Jennifer: I am… Not comfortable changing around other people.

Kairi: We have changed together before.

Jennifer: T-that’s different… We are sisters… We grew up together.

Hiki: Come on, why are you so embarrassed Jenny?

Jennifer: A-am not.

Kairi: I do not see the big deal.

Hiki: Your face is red, come on let it all out.

Jennifer: I-it just that I’m not comfortable with it….  (Blushes more).

Hiki: Come on or else I’m going to undress you.

Jennifer: (blushes flusteredly).  What, no I can do that myself!

Hiki: Then do it and I will not but you have to change now.

Jennifer: Fine just stop making it a big deal!

Kairi: But you are the one making it a big deal.

Jennifer: Quiet!

Hiki: (Laughs).

Jennifer: Not funny!

Hiki: It kind of is.

Jennifer: Quiet I just never was comfortable changing around others even the maids who helped me get dressed when younger….

Hiki: Well then, I’m going to undress right now then.

Kairi: Hold on your half in your swimsuit still.

Jennifer: How are you alright with this!

Kairi: (Shrugs).

Hiki: Well Miss Kairi can you tie it while I handle you sister?

Kairi: (Gives a confused look).  Alright but what about sis?

Jennifer: Wait what!

Hiki: I will help her get changed.

Jennifer: What no way!

Kairi: Alright but you will have to stay still while I tie the swimsuit together.

Hiki: I will do my best.

Jennifer: No just let me do it myself, just look away.  (Blushes even more).

Hiki: Fine, Kairi will you still help me?

Kairi: Sure, turn around I can tie it.  If sis, did it might fall apart.

Jennifer: Hey!

Hiki: (Laughs as she turns around and sits moving her hair out of the way).

Jennifer: Wait why are you not scolding Kairi about not being changed into her swimsuit?

Kairi: Oops sorry.

Jennifer: Just put some clothes on!

Kairi: Hold on I am helping Hiki.

Hiki: She is at least trying and not getting embarrassed.

Kairi: I do not see the big deal.

Hiki: Neither do I.

Kairi: (Ties one side of the suit).  alright one more.

Jennifer: (starts to undress quickly and put the swimsuit on behind everyone while their backs are turned as she blushes still).

Hiki: Ohh this is going to be so much fun.

Kairi: What is, swimming?

Hiki: Yes, and getting changed together.

Jennifer: How is this fun?

Kairi: (Finishes the last tie).  Alright done.

Jennifer: Wait do not turn around!

Hiki: Fine.

Kura: I could help you.

Jennifer: No, I am fine just do not look.

Hiki: (Turns around a bit to get a peak in at Jennifer).

Jennifer: Hey do not look!  (Covers herself with her dress that was on the ground).

Hiki: (Snickers a bit and turns back around).

Kairi: This is silly, just get changed already.  (Turns around).

Jennifer: Put your swimsuit on!

Kairi: You do not need to tell me.

Hiki: (Laughs at the sisters bickering).

Jennifer: Not funny.

Kairi: Is to.

Jennifer: Is not.

Kairi: Is to!

Jennifer: Is not!

Hiki: Is to.

Jennifer: Fine.  (Starts to put on her swimsuit).

Hiki: Yay!

Kairi: See not so bad.

Jennifer: Quiet.

Hiki: Come on, let me see.

Jennifer: Alright hold on.  (Ties the string that goes around her neck).

Kairi: It looks cute!

Kura: Very nice.

Hiki: Hmm….  (Gets closer to Jennifer).

Jennifer: (Gets a uncomfortable feeling).  What?

Hiki: (Puts her hands on Jennifer’s chest suddly with a expression of thought).

Jennifer: (Blushes from embarrassment and shock).  H-hey what are you doing!

Kairi: (Gives a confused look as Kura covers her eyes).

Hiki: You still need to grow.

Jennifer: (Blushes more flusterdly).  J-just let go!

Kairi: Grow?  But I thought sis was just short.

Hiki: No need to worry Kairi, your sister knows what I mean.

Kairi: What do you mean?

Jennifer: Never mind and Hiki let go!  (Tries to shrug Hiki’s arms away).

Hiki: (Let’s go).

Jennifer: Now thank you, what was that about?

Hiki: Was just curious.

Kairi: About what?  (She walks over, Jennifer still blushing).

Hiki: Just to see how the suit fits Jenny is all.

Jennifer: Some way of checking….  (Crosses arms over her chest).

Hiki: Yes.

Kairi: I like all of your swimsuits.

Jennifer: Thank you.

Hiki: I like mine too.

Jennifer: I like that little skirt on mine, wait umm Kairi where is your swimsuit… Put your swimsuit on now!

Hiki: Come on Kairi.

Kairi: Sorry I forgot I just got caught up in the conversation.

Jennifer: (Sighs).  Just get dressed.

Hiki: (Pushes Kairi along).

Kairi: I am going, I am going but where is my swimsuit?

Kura: I have it Lady Kairi.

Kairi: Oh, thank you.

Kura: Do you need help?

Kairi: No thank you.  (Quickly gets dressed). I wonder if Chazz and Tori are waiting for us or what they are talking about.

Hiki: I can find out for you.  (Thinks to herself for a second).

Kairi: Oh cool.

Jennifer: But what if they are still changing do not do that.

Hiki: No, they are waiting by the door.

Kairi: Alright.

Jennifer: Sorry we are keeping them waiting.

Hiki: No, I told them, and they said they do not mind waiting.

Kairi: Well, it might of helped us go faster if I had mentioned I have a curtain in here so that you could of changes behind it.

Jennifer: (Blankly stares as she processes what Kairi had said).

Hiki: Oh, is there?

Jennifer: … You could not have told me this earlier?

Kairi: You never asked.

Hiki: She does have a point.

Jennifer: (Looks annoyed but tries to let it go).

Hiki: Are we ready to go?

Jennifer: Right, I will bring our other clothing with us just in case.

Hiki: Good idea.

Jennifer: Shall we?  We do not want to keep the boys waiting.  (Opens the door for everyone).

Chazz: (As he waits in the hall with Tori Hiki suddenly jumps on his back both wearing a grey T-shirt with their swim trunks).

Jennifer: That is one way of saying hello.

Kairi: (sees Hiki and thinks to herself and then does the same as she jumps onto Tori’s back as he catches her).  Hi!

Chazz and Tori: Good afternoon, ladies.

Kairi: Sorry we kept you waiting.  (Looks up at Tori with a cute pouty face).

Tori: No, no it is fine.

Jennifer: Very well, shall we?

Chazz: Yes, we shall, Hiki do you want me to carry you.

Hiki: (Blushes a little).  Oh, thank you master.

Jennifer: (Frowns and blushes a little but shakes it off to feel happy for Hiki).

Kairi: Then let’s go, oh Tori I am sorry.  Do you want me to get down?

Tori: No, I am fine, you can stay.

Kairi: Woah so this is what it feels like to be tall?

Tori: (Laughs a bit).  It is quite fun, isn’t it?

Kairi: Wouldn’t you hit your head every time you go through a doorway?

Jennifer: … Alright he’s not that tall.

Tori: No, no I’m fine.

Jennifer: Alright shall we… Though it would look weird going down the halls like this.

Hiki: We could always go through the window.

Kairi: Ooh I like going that way.

Jennifer: Umm when have you ever done that?

Kairi: Umm.  (Panics a little).

Tori: She saw me do that, so she was always interested.

Kairi: (Gives a relieved look).

Jennifer: Uh huh well let’s go.

Kura: (Opens the window in Kairi’s room for everyone).  After you.

Jennifer: Why thank you.  (Casually jumps out of the window and waits outside).

Tori: (Jumps out next).

Kairi: Whoa (When Tori lands). Let’s do that again!  It is almost like flying when you jump.

Tori: I’m not sure….

Jennifer: How about some other time.  (Looks at the window as they wait for the next person to jump).

Kairi: fine.

Chazz: (Jumps out with Hiki on his back).

Hiki: Yay!  (Giggles as they land).

Jennifer: I see you are having fun.

Hiki: Just a bit.

Jennifer: Now Kura….  (Looks up at the window again).

Kairi: It is fun being carried.

Tori: It was fun to carry you.

Kairi: Aww I have to get down?  (Pouts cutely).

Tori: Up to you.

Kairi: If it bothers you.

Tori: Hardly.  (Smiles sincerely)

Kairi: Alright.  (Smiles up at Tori with a faint blush).

Jennifer: Wait where is Kura?

Kura: (Appears behind Jennifer from a shadow of a tree).  I am right here Miss Jennifer.

Jennifer: (Jolts away from Kura not expecting she was there).  Wah you scared me!

Kura: My apologies.

Hiki: Very nice Kura.

Jennifer: Well, let us go, we do not want it to become too late that we cannot swim much.

Kairi: Aww why can’t we swim at night?

Tori: I think it wouldn’t be safe.

Chazz: Yes Miss Kairi, I would not be recommended.

Kairi: Why would it not be safe?

Chazz: It just would not be right.

Kairi: Is it because dangerous animals hunt at night?

Jennifer: Umm they’re not that dangerous.

Chazz: We will not be doing that is all.

Jennifer: (Whispers in Chazz’s ear so Kairi cannot hear).  Is something wrong?

Chazz: I just have a bad feeling.

Jennifer: … Tori could you go on ahead with Kairi, we will catch up.

Tori: sure (Picks up the pace that he is walking).

Jennifer: (Waits until Kairi is out of earshot having also had that feeling but at first thinking it was just her imagination.  Now that Chazz has felt this too, she knows it was not).  What do you think?

Chazz: I just have a bad feeling.

Jennifer: Let me guess.  Is it like someone is watching us in the shadows?

Chazz: No nothing quite like that.

Jennifer: Hmm we need to keep an eye on things then.  I will look through the surrounding nature in my mind to help.

Chazz: As you wish.

Jennifer: yes, let’s go catch up for now.

Kura: I will check the perimeter as well.

Chazz: Oh Kura, please do.

Kura: (Bows and then goes into the shadows looking around).

Jennifer: Yes, if anything does happen, we need to get Kairi to safety.

Chazz: This is why she is with Tori.

Jennifer: Yes, he is powerful, that for sure.

Chazz: Very.

Jennifer: I wonder where Yami is, is he still upset?

Chazz: He is probably still at the lake.  That is why we are doing this in the first place.

Jennifer: Should I feel bad for playing that trick on him?

Chazz: I am not sure.

Jennifer: Oh well and Tori did not need to walk so fast.

Chazz: I do not think he did.

Jennifer: Very well but I do not feel like picking up the pace to catch up if I am checking the nature around us at the same time.

Chazz: Well, we can walk normally then.

Jennifer: I am fine with that.

 

Meanwhile near the lake where Tori walks with Kairi in his arms.

Kairi: (Hums to herself happily).

Tori: Enjoying yourself?

Kairi: With what… Oh yes, I am I like spending time with you… Oh and everyone else to.

Tori: Just me, seems kind of selfish.

Tori: (Puts his forehead on Kairi’s forehead).  I didn’t say that would be bad.

Kairi: (Starts to blush).  W-well you made it sound bad.

Tori: I never had that intention; you are too sweet to be mean.

Kairi: T-thank you and I do like spending time with you.

Tori: (Smiles at Kairi).  As do I.

Kairi: Why do you like spending time with me?

Tori: Just as I said you are kind and sweet to others and… things like that.  (Stops himself before he goes too far into those thoughts).

Kairi: Thank you and you have your kind and caring side to; it is very nice.

Tori: Well, I would hope so.

Kairi: (Smiles as she hugs Tori).

Tori: (Can’t help but smile into the hug and hold her closer as he carries her).  Well, here we are.

Kairi: Yay oh should we wait for everyone else.

Tori: I think so.

Kairi: Oh alright.  (Let’s go of the hug and smiles up at Tori).

Tori: (Goes to sit by a tree with Kairi still in his arms).

Kairi: (Leans back so that she is lying on Tori’s chest as she hums to herself happily).

Tori: What are you humming about now?

Kairi: oh, just a song that I like.

Tori: Which song?

Kairi: sis used to hum it to me to help me fall asleep or to calm me down.  She said that mom sang it to her when she was little too.

Tori: Sounds nice.  (Lies back and relaxes).

Kairi: She still does sing it; she even dances funny while humming it when she does chores.  I guess I picked up that habit.

Tori: Why yes master told me about the cooking experience.

Kairi: Do not mention that he told you about that to her, though I don’t mind if someone catches me dancing while I do my daily things.  It makes chores more fun.

Tori: It really does to just let loose a bit.

Kairi: Have you done that while doing chores as well?

Tori: No not really sadly but I have heard it is quite fun.

Kairi: It is better than just being quiet and working.

Tori: True.

Kairi: Yes.  (Looks up at Tori again then looks into his eyes oddly).

Tori: Is there something on my face?

Kairi: (Continues to stare).  N-no nothing.

Tori: Then why are you staring at me?

Kairi: (Stares as her mind starts to wander).

Tori: Are you sure there isn’t something on my face?

Kairi: (Breaks out of her daze with more of a blush).  Oh n-no nothing.

Tori: (Gives a confused look).  If you say so.

Kairi: You just have really cool eyes.

Tori: (Looks shocked for a second).  Oh, I do…?  Well thank you.

Kairi: Why, is that a bad thing to say?

Tori: I just was never told that.

Kairi: Well, they are cool.  They look like they are black and shadowy and it’s nice to look at.

Tori: Well, thank you lady Kairi.

Kairi: (Smiles and then lays on Tori as she gets comfortable).

Tori: Well, let us relax.

Kairi: (nods as she looks comfortable already as if almost ready for bed).

Tori: (Lies back as he closes his eyes).

Kairi: (Lies on Tori with her eyes closed as well, wrapping her arms around Tori as she snuggles up to him).

Tori: (Smiles a bit).

Kairi: (Smiles as well as she drifts in to a light sleep).

Tori: (Falls asleep as he thinks of how sleep is nice and of how Kairi is so soft and light to hold).

Kairi: (Opens her eyes but half asleep).  Tori?  (Sees that Tori is asleep).  Oh he’s asleep… He is cute when he sleeps….  Hmm I wonder… If spirits and humans have went out before….  Wait that’s a silly thought I’m a little young for that… My birthdays coming up though… And he does not age.

Hiki: (Shows up suddenly next to Tori dressed in her maid outfit).  There have been cases of that happening Miss Kairi.

Kairi: (Blushes).  Hey, do not eavesdrop.

Hiki: Why not kiss him then if you like him.  Tori is a heavy sleeper.

Kairi: What no way… That would be my first kiss.

Hiki: Well would you like it with someone you like?

Kairi: Well, yes… But it does not count if he is asleep.

Hiki: It doesn’t mean you can’t practice.

Kairi: But then I would be doing exactly what my sis did to Chazz, I am not a copycat.

Hiki: And the problem is?  Would you rather get it off your chest?

Kairi: But what if he wakes up and would you tell…?  Wait I told him about the kiss when sis fell on Chazz… Are you saying she did it on purpose?

Hiki: Hmm that’s a secret.

Kairi: I knew she liked him; I knew it.  (Looks proud of herself for being right).

Hiki: Just don’t tell master, it would be no fun.

Kairi: I will not but I can tell you have feelings for him too.  Have you acted on that, you should?

Hiki: I would but it’s more fun to watch.

Kairi: True, it is funny when sis gets flustered.  (Laughs).

Hiki: And to watch you.

Kairi: Me?

Hiki: Yes you.

Kairi: Why me?

Hiki: Because you like Tori.

Kairi: But I do not want to push my feelings onto him.

Hiki: I never said you had to.

Kairi: Besides I do not want to burden him with it.

Hiki: How would it burden him?

Kairi: I do not know but right now I am just trying to learn as much as I can to protect everyone.  Right now, I would just get in the way.

Hiki: Well, anyone can do anything but it’s up to them if they believe in themselves enough.

Kairi: That is why I want to learn as much as I can so I can help before anything.

Hiki: Well, you can still help.

Kairi: How do I do that?

Hiki: By making sure that Kura and Yami learn to work together.

Kairi: Yami just needs someone to care about him and a lot of hugs.

Hiki: Well for the moment all you can learn now is magic.  Yami is your front lines and Kura is support so you can help from a distance.

Kairi: I will try, and I can tell he has been through a lot.

Yami: (Is sitting on a tree branch casually above them having not said a word until now).  Would you quit talking about me, it’s annoying.

Kairi: Yami when did you get here?

Yami: I’ve been here this whole time thanks to those muts.

Hiki: What muts?

Yami: The ones that slobbered me.

Hiki: well, are you going to go swimming with us?

Yami: Yeah right, what’s so fun about that.  I’m staying up here.

Hiki: Well do as you wish.

Yami: (Crosses his arms).  Whatever.

Kairi: Aww come on your no fun.  Hiki can tease you again if that helps.

Yami: What no, why would that help anything.

Hiki: (The maids outfit fades away so that she is in her swimsuit now).  You don’t like me then, darn.

Yami: No why would that interest me, not even that big a chest.

Kairi: (Looks shocked).

Kura: (Appears from the shadows of the tree branch behind Yami with a scary look).

Hiki: (Looks down for a second as her aura glows heavily).  Interesting, very interesting.

Yami: What you upset now?

Kairi: I would be quiet now….

Kura: Still behind Yami with a look that would make anyone run but Yami hasn’t turned around).

Hiki: (Clenches her fists together).

Kura: So that’s how you treat a lady?

Yami: What?  (Turns around).  Wah!  (Falls back and falls off the branch but Kura catches him by the ear).  Ahh let go!

Kura: As you wish.  (Throws Yami over to Hiki landing a few feet away from her).

Yami: What the hell was that for!

Hiki: (Says creepily).  Yami… I feel that a lesson is needed.

Yami: What for, what did I do and aren’t you support what good is that?

Kairi: I would tell you to run but you kind of deserve what is coming.  (Pokes Tori to wake him up).

Hiki: I am not support I am a combat support meaning I can hold my own also I’m kind of mad.

Tori: Hey, hey Hiki save it for later.

Kairi: (Whispers to Tori).  Don’t, he deserves it.  He called Hiki small chested.

Tori: Well, we are fighting later remember.

Kairi: Well, that’s one thing I have learned you don’t comment on and he was pretty rude about it.

Yami: Alright but the support stuff is kind of lame.  (Sits up from being thrown).

Hiki: Whatever you say.

Yami: Bring it, I’m not scared.

Hiki: (Suddenly a rock and fire shard appears above Yami that she is controlling on her own).

Yami: (Looks a little concerned).  Umm.  (Tries to step to the side of it but runs into a light wall that surrounds him).  Hey no fair!

Hiki: (Shatters the stone into smaller shards to cover the whole area).

Yami: (Pulls out his dagger as he gets ready to block the shards but then the shards shower down all at once as he tries to brace for the impact but a dark barrier over him catches all of the shards).  Huh what then?

Hiki: Nice one Kura.

Kura: (Jumps down from the tree).  Yes, he is rude, but I would prefer he lives so he learns at least some manners.

Yami: Not like I need your help anyways, I had that.

Kura: (Looks at Yami with what looks like almost a glare as the barrier falls on him).

Yami: Gah!

Hiki: (Laughs).  Miss Kairi that is how you can help with doing magic, how I just had done.

Kairi: I understand, and you can go back to sleep Tori.  Sorry for waking you.

Tori: Alright.  (Falls back to sleep quite quickly).

Kairi: Wow he falls asleep quick.

Hiki: It does happen.

Kairi: (Smiles).  Wow.

Yami: (Muffledly yells from under the barrier).

Kura: I almost had forgotten.  (Lifts the barrier slightly but Yami still is unable to get out).

Yami: (Gasps for breath).  Couldn’t… Breathe.

Hiki: Laughs.

Kura: My apologies I had not realized I was causing that.

Yami: Whatever just let me out!

Kura: (The barrier changes its shape into a net that covers Yami).  No.

Yami: Hey!

Hiki: I like that idea too.

Kura: I would call this a timeout.

Yami: Hey you’re not my sister you can’t do this, let me out!

Kura: (Pauses to something Yami say with a slight hurt and anger tone but sighs and tries to shake the hurt feeling away).  Watch me, someone needs to teach you respect.  Once you apologize to Miss Hiki, I will let you go.

Yami: (Pouts stubbornly).  Yeah, not going to happen.

Hiki: (Sits on the net).  Well would rather burn with it.

Yami: Wait what?

Kura: Do what you wish but please keep him alive.

Hiki: I will try.

Kura: If worse happens, it happens.

Yami: Let me out!  (Starts absorbing the barrier net).

Kura: (Narrows her eyes at Yami).  I can just add more of my power to the net; don’t think I don’t notice what you are doing.

Hiki: (Has a fire blazing on her finger).

Yami: Hey what are you doing?

Hiki: Setting the net on fire.

Kura: iIt is not a normal net it is made with a barrier it will not burn easily.

Yami: Why you burn it!

Hiki: Well in that case I can burn the ground below him.

Yami: Hey!

Kura: Or I can make an opening in the net but not big enough for him to escape of course.  (Makes the net open a little).

Hiki: No fun but alright.

Kura: My apologies do what you wish.

Yami: What the hell are you planning?

Hiki: Nothing anymore, I will save it for later.  (Breaks Kura’s barrier thinking she had scared him enough as payback).

Yami: What hey I’m not scared of you or anything you have planned.

Hiki: Whatever you say Yami.

Yami: (Crosses his arms as he looks away).  Do your worst, I won’t give up in a fight.

Hiki: Oh, I plan to but not now.

Yami: Whatever.  (Leans on a tree hopping up to the branch he had fallen off of).

Kura: (Sighs as she shakes her head).

Hiki: Well, I’m going to go swim now.

Kairi: Alright I will to in a bit oh and one more thing.

Hiki: What?

Kairi: I thought about what you said… And why not… It’s probably not as big a deal as sis makes it.  (Gently places her lips on Tori’s in a quick kiss and then smiles as she blushes).

Hiki: Well said and well done.

Kairi: (Smiles proudly).  Thank you.

Hiki: (grabs Kairi’s hand and pulls her to the lake).

Kairi: Oh yeah swimming whoa!  (Trips over Tori’s legs).  Oops sorry.

Tori: (Continues to sleep like nothing had happened).

Kairi: He’s asleep still after that?

Hiki: Not surprising.

Kairi: Alright let’s go!  (Runs pulling Hiki to the lake then Hiki running with her as Kairi laughs happily into the water as Jennifer and Chazz arrive).

Chazz: Well, looks like something happened.

Jennifer: But what exactly?

Chazz: I am not sure.

Jennifer: Kura what happened here?

Kura: Hiki and I taught Yami a lesson.

Chazz: May I ask what type of lesson?

Hiki: being respectful to woman.

Kura: He had called Hiki small chested which is a very insulting thing to say.

Jennifer: (Looks shocked by such an insult).

Chazz: (Shakes his head with a sigh).

Jennifer: I see he deserves being taught a lesson then.

Hiki: Heck yeah.

Jennifer: I see, and Tori slept through all of that?

Hiki: Kind of….

Jennifer: Alright then.

Kairi: Well, let’s go swimming!  The last one there gets thrown in that water!  (Runs to the water with Hiki).

Jennifer: Wait let me put down the towels first.

Hiki: (Suddenly Hiki falls down along with Kairi).

Chazz: (Rushes towards Hiki and Kairi).  Hiki, Miss Kairi are you both alright?

Hiki: Master… I suddenly… Feel sleepy….  (Passes out).

Jennifer: Hiki, Kairi!  (Rushes to both of them).  What’s wrong?

Kura: (Rushes to Kairi who already is asleep, but Kura looks tired herself).

Yami: What the hell is… Going on now….  (Looks annoyed then falls off the tree branch).

Kura: (Suddenly falls as well).

Chazz: (Rushes by Tori to try and wake him but it is no use).

Jennifer: What is going on… Wait….  (Closes her eyes for a moment noticing a plant type that goes into the air making people sleep… A poison).  Chazz cover your mouth now!

Chazz: I am… Sorry milady… I must rest now… Go win this fight….  (Falls asleep like everyone else had).

Jennifer: (Rushes over to Chazz).  Chazz wake up!  (Suddenly she hears a man’s voice behind her).

????: Now that the threats are gone why aren’t you asleep?

Jennifer: (Looks around for where the voice came from defensively).

????: Hello there, answer my question.

Jennifer: Who are you…?  Are you doing this?

Shizen: (From inside of her mind so that only Jennifer can hear her).  Stay calm child; don’t let him know your power just yet.

????: Maybe I did maybe I didn’t, should it matter.

Jennifer: (Stands searching the area for the voice with the surrounding suddenly becoming foggy).  Yes it does, what do you want with us.

????: Just want your position in power.

Jennifer: I see then you must be of a noble house then?

????: Shouldn’t matter my goal for it isn’t your business.  Soon enough you will join them.

Jennifer: (Closes her eyes as she searches through nature for the man talking).  Join who?

????: My victims just behind you though I’m not sure if they will be waking up anytime soon.

Jennifer: So, you are waiting for me to sleep then?

????: Not sure it I want too though.  You should have fallen already but I guess it wouldn’t be fun if it was too easy.

Jennifer: I am sorry to disappoint.  What were you going to do kill us in our sleep, how cowardly are you?  (Grabs her bow slowly, trying not to cause the person to think she know how to use the bow well).

????: I wouldn’t do something so reckless as trying to fight while your friends are having nightmares, plus it is less messy when someone sleeps.

Jennifer: I will not let you kill them.

????: Well, let’s see if you can before you drop also.

Jennifer: Sorry to disappoint you but I’m not tired.  (Gets an idea as she acts a little tired).

????: You wouldn’t believe how times I heard that one.

Jennifer: Show yourself, I will not sleep.  (Kneels with her face covered by shadows her eyes closed as she listens and feels the nature around her).

????: If you insist.  (The person appears behind Jennifer immediately).

Jennifer: I see….  (Grips her bow as she readies to swing it around).  So you’re going to kill me now?

????: Pretty much the plan.

Jennifer: I see.  (Sweep kicks in back of her as she pulls back her bow, ready to shoot).

????: You missed.

Jennifer: I will not next time.  (Draws her bow which is aimed at a man looking to be in his late twenties or early thirties, Late thirties possibly with some grey hair in his mostly brown hair wearing dark purple common clothes.  He has sheathed two knives with what looks like s scorpion tail at the hilt.  He has hazel eyes with a slight purple tinge to them looking down at her intimidatingly).

????: We will see about that.

Jennifer: I will not fall asleep so long as I have to protect my friends… Now who are you?  (Stands with her bow still aimed at the man).

????: My name is Luka.

Jennifer: Hmm then I assume you are of a noble house that is lower rank?

Luka: No need for the little things.

Jennifer: (Pauses trying to not let her fear show and stay calm and collected).  Very well now… Drop the weapon you have to the ground, and I will not shoot you… Fatally.

Luka: Well now that your giving orders I guess I must listen oh great highness.  (Has a sarcastic tone as he draws out his daggers with a small chain on the hilt connected to the other dagger he holds).

Jennifer: (Narrows her eyes at Luka untrusting of him clearly).  I am no queen, only a lady taking care of a possible assassin.  You were the one who likely poisoned me as well at the party… I would like to pay you back for that.

Luka: (Grins as if keeping up some sort of act).  Well, I should be happy that you remember my type of work.

Jennifer: Not a bad poison I have to admit, just not that strong.

Luka: Wasn’t trying to make it strong.

Jennifer: Still not an impressive poison not freshly made, it works better that way.  (Starts to critic Luka’s killing tactics and how he could improve them).

Luka: Oh, are you done talking?

Jennifer: I am merely stating that your tactics are flawed.

Luka: Don’t get me wrong if I wanted you dead, I would try harder.  I just wanted to see if you would live through it and make things more fun for me.

Jennifer: Fun?

Luka: Like this!  (Throws a dagger at Jennifer).

Jennifer: (Fires an arrow, deflecting the dagger making it hit a tree taking a breath to keep calm and focused).

Luka: (retracts the dagger with the tail chain).

Jennifer: Interesting weapon.

Luka: Thank you very much.

Jennifer: Yes, are you going to attack seriously or just poison the air again?

Luka: I would but it seems like it won’t work so I’ll just stab holes through you, ok?

Jennifer: You can try….  (Aims her bow steadily ready for the fight best she can). 

Luka: (Charges in with the tails of the daggers wrapped around his arms).

Jennifer: (Fires arrows mainly at Luka’s arms so he cannot swing or throw well).

Luka: (Dodges and closes in seeming quite skilled in doing so).

Jennifer: (Runs back as she continues to fire aiming at vital organs, but Luka continues to dodge as he runs so she runs up a tree then jumps off aiming down at Luka then landing as she faces Luka ready it fire again).

Luka: (Throws his daggers around for a farther reach as he closes in pulling the daggers back with the chain to his hand to throw them once again).

Jennifer: (Blocks the daggers using arrows as she runs backwards whispering to Shizen).  Shizen running out of options without power, what now?

Shizen: (From inside Jennifer’s mind).  Then use part of your power.  Trust your instincts, they do not lie to you.

Luka: (Stops and watches Jennifer).

Jennifer: Why did you stop?  I thought you were trying to kill me.  (Fires an arrow as she stops running).

Luka: (Catches the arrow).  I’m just waiting for the main event.

Jennifer: Main event?

Luka: Your real power.

Jennifer: And who said I had real power?

Luka: You wouldn’t still be awake if you didn’t.

Jennifer: Maybe I am just immune to that poison….

Luka: Then if I start a poison must that will kill everyone here will you still stand or will you fall to that depths of darkness.

Jennifer: I guess you will never know; besides I know your blades are laced with poison anyways.  If you cut me, I slowly die am I right?

Luka: No, you’re wrong.  (Dagger tail surrounds Jennifer and wraps around her suddenly restraining her arms).  The tails are.

Jennifer: (Looks shocked as she tries to break free but is unable to).  Gah!

Shizen: Say part of my name now child, that is a deadly poison.

Jennifer: I know, I will!

Luka: Ohh there it is.

?????: (Another man’s voice is heard but it is unseen like an echo similar to how Shizen’s is at the moment).  Come and show me a fun time?

Jennifer: Another one!

Shizen: Stay calm child.

?????: Yes, another one rude girl.

Jennifer: My bad for not being polite to a person trying to kill me!

?????: True.

Jennifer: … Oh I get it… You are his spirit aren’t you… And your element is obviously poison.

?????: Thought I would lecture you, but you get the idea.

Jennifer: So, what is it?  Controlling snakes poison weapons or anything poisonous.  If you do control poisonous animals, can I meet them?

Luka: Umm sorry to interrupt but aren’t we in the middle of something?

Jennifer: Oh, but I wanted to see if you control poisonous creatures, you could make it a giant petting zoo.

Shizen: (Laughs).  A sense of humor now?

?????: We will talk later.

Luka: No, you won’t!

Shizen: Your spirit seems to disagree with you.  Spirit what is your name?

?????: Zahir is my name and no I don’t disagree, just trying to get in a good chat for a bit.

Jennifer: I know right you seem pretty alright… When you’re not trying to kill me.

Shizen: Ahh I see, and poison is a part of nature element, correct?  My apologies if I do not know much about the nature element.  (Acts clueless as it is a clear lie but formal… It’s almost too calm in how she acts and as if she is familiar with the spirit).

Zahir: I am sorry but please die.

Luka: (Charges in from the trees).

Jennifer: (Dodges but her arms are still bound by the chain, unable to lift her bow to shoot but still in her hand when suddenly she feels a sudden burning as she grits her teeth feeling a little pain as she tries to break free).

Shizen: Child stop stalling oh and I never told you, my name.  My manners left me for a second, but most nature spirits know me, so it is fine.

Jennifer: Not the time to talk!

Luka: (Continues to swing with his daggers as Jennifer dodges him).

Shizen: My apologies.

Jennifer: A little tied up at the moment.

Shizen: Then stop playing around.

Jennifer: (Sighs looking annoyed as she closes her eyes watching Lukas movements through the nature around so she can dodge but the poison on the tail around her burns more) … Shizen. (Her swimsuit and eyes turn green as she gets out of the chains grip and lifts her bow ready to shoot as she opens her eyes).

Luka: There we go.

Jennifer: That was starting to hurt had to do something.

Shizen: Finally, took you long enough.

Jennifer: I do not like showing my power alright.

Shizen: sometimes it is a life-or-death situation, right Zahir?

Zahir: I can respect that.

Jennifer: Seriously why are you talking with a spirit of a person trying to kill me?

Shizen: it is smart to know your enemy’s power plus spirits can be different from their master.  I am trying to figure out if that is the case now days.

Zahir: No, I’m not so different, I’m just open to conversation.

Shizen: I see.

Luka: (As Shizen and Zahir talk he continues to attack Jennifer).

Jennifer: (Dodges much faster than before as she watches carefully).

Luka: Well then should I get powered up too?

Zahir: If you wish.

Jennifer: (Sighs as she prepares for anything that could happen).  I hope there is a petting zoo of poisonous animals.

Luka: Release your poison, Zahir.  (His weapons change into guns with a blade on the back).

Jennifer: … What is that thing?

Shizen: I believe it is a gun.

Jennifer: With a blade on the back?

Shizen: You have never seen one?

Jennifer: No… it looks cool though.

Luka: (Fires the gun at Jennifer).

Jennifer: (Barely dodges and looks shocked).  A long range weapons?

Luka: Yeah, now can you keep up?

Jennifer: I do not know but I will try….  Not like I have any other power to call on so let us battle.  (Tries to cover up the obvious lie).

Luka: Ok then.

Jennifer: (Readies her bow).

Luka: (Fires his guns at different angles).

Jennifer: (Dodges and fires back arrows).

Luka: (Closes in the distance with every shot).

Jennifer: (Shoots faster shooting every bullet and sometimes able to aim at Luka).

Luka: (Begins to cut every arrow Jennifer shoots as a purple mist forms behind him).

Jennifer: Poison….  (Jumps back and lands on a branch of a tree).

Luka: You could say that.  (The purple mist surrounds the entire ground except around himself and Jennifer’s unconscious friends).

Jennifer: (Stays on the branch to stay above the mist narrowing her eyes at Luka).  Then what is it?

Luka: (Creates a spark with his guns and the poison mist lights on fire).

Jennifer: (Looks at the fire in fear whispering to herself in a scared way).  … Fire.

Shizen: Not the time for your fear’s child.

Luka: (Smirks).  No like fire Miss Jennifer?  Well, that’s a shame because I have more to give. It is a combusting of poison to flames since Zahir’s mist is flammable but only for a short period of time and it destroys the poison in the process, so it is like a sacrifice for poison to envelop the entire area entire area for a short flame. Each of my bullets contains a different type of poison.  The fire one is a flammable poison. The fire then stops spreading and dissolves into a mist that fades away shortly.

Jennifer: I see… And do you have to damage the trees so much.  (Frowns as she looks at the damaged trees around them and the one, she is on).

Luka: Meh I don’t care.

Jennifer: (Glares as she pulls back her bow).  You do not care… Well, I do.

Luka: And I don’t care that you do.  (Readies both of his guns).

Jennifer: (The tree branch below her starts to glow and then fires much faster as the arrows glow and then she jumps to the next tree faster than before).

Luka: (Follows up with Jennifer’s movements).

Jennifer: (Continues shooting and moving from tree to tree but also trying to lead him away from her friends).

Luka: (Continues to follow Jennifer as he breaks her arrows).

Jennifer: (Strengthens the barrier over the next arrow and fires).

Luka: (Fires his guns multiple times and one skids right past Jennifer’s ear).

Jennifer: (Tries shooting the bullets away and dodges the ones she cannot but one grazes her arm drawing a little blood).  No.

Luka: (Continues to fire).

Jennifer: (Jumps off the tree and circles Luka as she continues to fire arrows at him moving as much as possible).

Luka: (Follows Jennifer’s movements rather easily keeping up with her).

Jennifer: We are getting nowhere with this.  (Runs towards Luka with her bow in hand using it like a staff).

Luka: (His guns transform into short swords as he rushes at Jennifer).

Jennifer: (Swings her bow as she watches closely at Luka’s movements).

Luka: (Swings even faster to make it harder to watch him).

Jennifer: (Blocks as she is pushed back a bit but not getting hit gritting her teeth from being pushed back though).  Not bad.

Luka: Same to you.

Jennifer: What?  Did you expect a lady who’s proper and does what is expected of them?

Luka: No, I just thought you would be better at this.

Jennifer: I feel insulted, but I know you can do better than this… Come on use all your strength… I am barely breaking a sweat.  (It is clearly a lie as she is struggling to hold her own).

Shizen: Taunting the enemy now, are we?

Jennifer: Says the spirit on the side talking to the enemy spirit.

Luka: Well, look behind you….  (As flames surround Jennifer’s unconscious friends).

Jennifer: (Steps away from Luka looking in fear at the flames).  Not again….

Luka: What will Miss Jenny do?  You wanted true strength then to show me yours before they all burn or die from poison, either works.

Jennifer: My friends… What are you doing to them!  They don’t deserve this; you are fighting me not them!

Luka: I said they are having nightmares, right?

Jennifer: … A nightmare that gets worse and worse… So, it’s a hallucinogenic type of poison… Let them go they did nothing to you!  (Swings her bow at Luka with all her strength to try and stop him).

Luka: I will if you surrender though if no0 I may start with that butler.  There was a bounty on him.

Jennifer: (Swings faster with an angry look on her face).  You will not go near him!

Luka: Well now, someone is angry.  Did I touch a nerve?

Jennifer: Leave them alone, they have nothing to do with this!

Luka: Oh, but they do.

Jennifer: No, they do not!  What do you want from them, they are not nobles!  You will not gain anything!

Luka: But that’s where you’re wrong.  I know the smaller girl is also a noble and your butler is there.  The rest are just casualties.  I would gain respect from my boss or hirer.  Whatever you want to call it.

Jennifer: (Whispers in shock as she realizes who he is talking about).  … Kairi… No….  (Stops attacking looking shocked then remember when fighting herself the dream of someone hurting Kairi as her emotions begin to lose control).

Luka: (Waits by a tree to see what happens).

Jennifer: (Grabs her head trying to push memories back but it is not really working).

Shizen: Child… Stay calm.

Luka: They all will fall.

Shizen: I would stop talking if I were you.

Luka: If she kills me it would fall into place.

Shizen: You are willing to die like this?

Jennifer: (Looks like she is in pain, but nothing seems to be hurting her physically).

Luka Well we’ll see, won’t we now.  (A purple aura forms around Luka).

Shizen: Very well but do not threaten her sister, I advise you for what you have left of your own life.

Jennifer: (She starts to glow green with her head faced down in the shadows).

Luka: Then the butler if he doesn’t matter.

Shizen: I have warned you.

Jennifer: (Glows brighter).

Luka: (Waits to see what Jennifer will do).

Jennifer: (A root from a tree comes up and grabs Luka by the waist and wraps around him).

Luka: (Looks surprised).  Oh, oh Mother Nature, is it?

Shizen: (There is a smirk in the tone of her voice).  You called?

Jennifer: (The roots continue to wrap around Luka and starts to squeeze him like a boa constrictor).

Luka: I don’t like the tight feeling as much.  (Cuts up the roots).

Jennifer: (More roots come out to grab Luka as she stands there with her eyes closed and her face in the shadows).

Luka: (Continues to cute the roots as they grow towards him, but one is able to grab his hand and he stops moving to see what happens).

Jennifer: (Walks over to Luka with her head still down as the roots and vines wrap around him again).

Luka: (Sets all the roots and vines ablaze and they burn but more try to reach him but burn as well once hitting the fire and he charges at Jennifer to attack).

Jennifer: (Looks up and her eyes glow green but then flash red with a emotionless look.  A bright green light surrounds her and then a hood and mask covering her mouth and nose with a cloak and a green and brown hunting outfit appears on her as her eyes then show a look of anger).

Luka: Well then.

Jennifer: (Says nothing as she raises her bow with 4 arrows ready to fire at once).

Luka: (Continues to charge).

Jennifer: (fires the arrows, 2 aimed at his hands that are holding the swords and the other 2 at his chest but the arrows deflect off and then she charges at Luka while putting her bow away).

Luka: Zahir releases the poison death.  (Once Luka says this a scorpion tail comes out of his back while his guns and swords change and turn purple with a scorpion engraved into the two weapons).

Jennifer: (Pulls out her 2 short swords engraved with leaves from their sheaths at her waist and gets ready to attack).

Luka: (Closes in at a much greater speed).

Jennifer: (Swings very quickly at Luka and continues to do so, not giving an opening).

Luka: (Continues to move faster and faster able to keep up with Jennifer’s attacks).

Jennifer: (Blocks with both swords and then swing kicks Luka).

Luka: (His scorpion tail strikes at both Jennifer’s legs).

Jennifer: (Backs away and sweep kicks Luka legs to make him unbalanced then looking at her own legs seeing not that big a wound then looks at Luka ready to strike again).

Luka: (Is ready to strike as well as he watches Jennifer’s movements closely).

Jennifer: (Her leg that was hit worse weakens a little making her have to rebalance as she tries to ignore it).

Luka: (Sees that Jennifer’s is struggling and makes a plan).

Jennifer: (Charges at Luka as plants grab his legs).

Luka: (Cuts the plants with his tail while he readies for Jennifer’s attack).

Jennifer: (Strikes with both swords at once to stay offensive).

Luka: (Blocks Jennifer’s attacks as he watches carfully).

Jennifer: (Continues to strike as her eyes start to glow red again but flash back to green just as quickly).

Luka: (strikes back at Jennifer).

Jennifer: (blocks both Luka’s weapons and then jump and kicks Luka in the stomach with both feet).

Luka: (Flinches but he grabs Jennifer’s feet together as his tail aims for her heart).

Jennifer: (Tries to stay sort of balanced as she turns a little, so the scorpion tail misses her heart and then flipping so that Luka is pushed over her.  She then faces him revealing she has a tail as well but one a monkey would have, and that Luka’s tail hit her shoulder as her shoulder starts to turn red, she grabs her shoulder.  She is gritting her teeth in pain then glares at Luka).

Luka: Well, if you don’t like fire then you won’t like this one.

Jennifer: (Her eyes widen realizing she was struck with a poison then tries to think of what poison it is and how to stop it.  She closes her eyes as she tries to find and neutralize the poison).

Luka: (Doesn’t leave Jennifer the chance to rest as he attacks her).

Jennifer: (Readies to block with one hand and the other grabs her shoulder as she tries to think).

Luka: (Strikes at her arm that is holding her shoulder).

Jennifer: (Blocks as she backs up as she feels a burning pain in her shoulder but gets a idea of what poison it is exactly).

Luka: (Charges in at Jennifer again).

Jennifer: (Gets pushed back as she looks for a certain animal then finds it and runs in back of her, trying to outrun Luka).

Luka: (Chases after Jennifer).

Jennifer: (A poisonous snake slithers up to her shoulder).

Luka: (Fires his guns at Jennifer).

Jennifer: (Ducks then jumps on a branch whispering to the snake then grabbing her shoulder since it starts to hurt more).

Luka: (Closes in on Jennifer).

Jennifer: (Jumps from branch to branch then lands facing Luka).

Luka: (Waits on a tree branch to watch with curiosity at what Jennifer is trying to do).

Jennifer: (Nods to the snake and the snake bites her shoulder gritting her teeth in pain).  The deadliest poison snake in the area in exchange for the poison you used on me.

Luka: It wasn’t a poison it was an ignition for other poisons.

Jennifer: But if it’s a poison I know well maybe I can control it and adapt even though I did just poison myself… Does not sound smart.  (Her shoulder suddenly ignites in a small explosion as she yells in pain as she is blown backwards falling off the tree branch and then tries to get back up, leaning on a tree as she breathes heavily the snake getting away just in time as she had protected it).  There goes… my idea.

Luka: I didn’t say ignition for nothing.

Jennifer: I see… That….  (Looks at her arm which she can’t lift or move at all looking very damaged as she yells out in pain.  Despite the pain she tries to calm down using her own words to do so).  Well that hurts….  I just need a new arm.

Luka: And you also have those other poisons.

Jennifer: (Acts like it’s no big deal but the pain is as great as when she had fought herself, but she tries to fight through that feeling out of her survival instincts kicking in).  Oh right… That should kill someone in what 10 seconds….

Luka: No, the snakes poison is a type that paralyses its prey.

Jennifer: Yes, so about 10 seconds….  I mean for you to kill me with me affected by it.

Luka: It wouldn’t be that easy.

Jennifer: Well, how can you tell?

Luka: Your nature, it wouldn’t take 10 seconds.  Much more and much stronger poison would need to be there.

Jennifer: Well, let’s find the most poisonous thing here and put it to the test.

Luka: Nah.

Jennifer: (With heavy breaths as she seems to be stalling).  What am I saying…? You are poison… You probably have that poison….

Zahir: Maybe.

Jennifer: Oh, don’t be like that….  No time to be modest….

Luka: Well, come here and find out.

Jennifer: I do not expect you to just poison me and that’s it.

Luka: We will find out.

Jennifer: Very well… Hmm my arms no good like this… Might as well have no arm… Oh that is it….  (Plant life covers her arm and she stretches it out and she grabs her other sword as she stretches out her arm I bit as if it is stiff).

Luka: (Strikes the ground with his tail to poison all plant life).

Jennifer: No get out of here!  (Talks to animals watching close by).  No time!  (Places her hands on the ground as the ground begins to burn like fire and tries to make plants grow as fast as possible to try and contain the burning poison).

Luka: (The fire stops, and he stabs the ground with his tail again but instead he stabs it with a deadly poison).

Jennifer: (Forces poison to come to her to avoid the animals as she grits her teeth in pain).

Luka: (Continues to stab the ground a couple times more).

Jennifer: (Slowly absorbs all the poison in a lot of pain but forces herself to absorb even more).

Luka: (Walks over to Jennifer’s friends as he readies his weapons).

Jennifer: (Absorbs the poison then runs after Luka with what is left of her strength).  Do not go near them!  (As she runs her legs begin to give out as Luka gets closer to her friends forcing herself to keep going but trips and falls).  Stop… Do not… Hurt them….

Luka: (Reaches Chazz first).  Now why?

Jennifer: They are all I have… It used to be only me… And my sister… But they became my family… So please just do not hurt them… I rather it be me….

Chazz: (Wakes up for a moment).  … Milady… If you die, then who would be there for Kairi….   Death is no answer… Get up… And never give up in your ambitions… Because-.

Luka: (Steps on Chazz’s head to knock him out).  Shut up!  Maybe I start with you.

Jennifer: (Reaches her hand out to Chazz, forcing herself to stand).  No!

Luka: (Readies his tail to stab Chazz).

Jennifer: (Rushes over to Luka getting in-between him and Chazz who is on the ground, unconscious).

Luka: (Pauses for a second to process it all).

Jennifer: (Readies her swords).  … I care about him… As much as I care for my sister… I do not care how much poison I absorbed back there… It will not be enough for you to hurt any of them!

Luka: Well, I guess it’s time to end it.  (Readies his guns at close range aiming at Chazz and Kairi and his tail charges at Jennifer).

Jennifer: No!  (Rushes towards Luka getting stabbed in the stomach by the tail as she uses both blades to deflect the guns).

Luka: Interesting choice.

Jennifer: (Coughs with a little blood coming out as she breathes heavily).  … I… am not done yet… No poison will stop me!  (Her eyes close then open changing to green serpent eyes).

Luka: Is that so, well the poison from before should be igniting now but much stronger than before.

Jennifer: I will deal with it….  (Fangs grow as she talks as she gets a snakes tail as she attacks pushing Luka back).

Luka: (Blocks not expecting this reaction).  Well then.

Jennifer: I will not let you hurt them even if….  (Her eyes glow red fully as the rage takes hold of her).  I have to kill you.  (Strikes at Luka).

Luka: Then go ahead, you will fall quickly.

Jennifer: (Swings even faster hitting Luka with the serpent tail sending Luka back a bit more).

Luka: (Charges back with his guns ready).

Jennifer: (Charges as well as her animal features changing to a breed of cat to dodge as she moves much faster).

Luka: (Fires at Jennifer while his scorpion tail separates into two tails).

Jennifer: (Dodges both bullets and flips over grabbing 1 tail as she gets the features of a bear and flips Luka over her head and slamming him to the ground).

Luka: (Coughs up blood but it does not seem to be from the injury and jumps back up doing the same thing to Jennifer, pulling her down).

Jennifer: (Gets hurt wincing but gets cat features getting up quickly as she slashes at Luka from each animal trait, she uses she enhances that ability this time being her agility).

Luka: (Attacks back at Jennifer as he keeps rotating between using his guns and swords).

Jennifer: (Dodges the bullets and slashes, kicking Luka’s leg making him fall).

Luka: (Recovers quickly to retaliate with one of his tails).

Jennifer: (Get ready to block and strikes when she sees an opening).

Luka: (Picks up the pace of his strikes as if rushing the fight as if on a time limit).

Jennifer: (Ducks Luka’s blades as she looks for a weak point).

Luka: (One of his tails catches Jennifer wrapping around her).

Jennifer: (Grits her teeth then stabs right in the middle of the tail).

Luka: (Coughs up even more blood).

Jennifer: (Grabs the tail holding a sword to the stinging).

Luka: (His other tail strikes Jennifer’s legs).

Jennifer: (Lets go quickly only making a small cut as she backs up a bit, struggling to stay standing with her legs in a lot of pain).

Luka: … It’s… Over you… Win….  (Falls down on his back suddenly as if strength had left his body completely).

Jennifer: Hey We are not done yet!  You’re not dying yet either!  (Rushes to Luka and kneels by him).

Luka: I can’t keep fighting… I’m done….

Jennifer: (Her eyes widen as she realizes how weak Luka appears).  … Was it me stabbing your tail…?  It seemed like a weak spot….  Anyways you are not dying yet….

Luka: … No, I just feel like I’m losing too much blood… So, I’m not going to bother.

Jennifer: … You are not very good at fighting for your life….

Luka: (Laughs weakly).  I guess not I just know when to give up….

Jennifer: Well, I am not letting you die… Besides I have questions.

Luka: Well too bad… Zahir is going to give you the medicine for your friends to wake up and to recover….

Zahir: As you wish Luka.

Jennifer: … W-why are you helping?

Luka: Would you rather try alone?

Shizen: I am sure I can figure it out, but I would accept the help.

Jennifer: Fine….

Zahir: (Gathers up poison and makes an antidote out of it).

Shizen: Zahir could you show yourself?  Let’s see how you look nowadays.

Zahir: Nah I’m good.

Shizen: Aww is someone shy?  I will show what I look like, and you might even recognize me.

Luka: No Shizen we are aware of who you are.

Shizen: Yes, I disappeared from the nature spirits for a time since… Events you know well.  Being the one I charge has its downfalls.

Jennifer: … You were what?

Shizen: Remember I am a first-generation spirit child.

Zahir: Well, I am a second generation.  It’s just that poison spirits are rarer to deal with since we are an aspect of nature.

Shizen: You were one of the first poison spirit.

Zahir: Well, you could say that I am one of the last.

Shizen: (There is sorrow in her voice).  I see… I am sorry to hear that… I did not know your kind of spirit was nearly wiped out… I’m sorry.

Jennifer: (Gives a confused look not knowing what they are talking about).

Zahir: To explain to the young ones, the poison spirits were not seen as a real element just a danger to the others.  So, the other spirits began genocide of the poison spirits though the nature spirits were more sympathetic since poison is another part of nature.

Shizen: Me being the one that is in charge of the nature spirits safety… It tore me apart that I could do little to nothing….  I protected who I could in a rageful battle and then went into hiding myself….

Jennifer: … I would have thought it was a more peaceful place.

Zahir: Oh, don’t get me wrong it is most of the time.  It is a wonderful place for us, but we do have some politics and they were scared of poison spirits because like Luka showed we are very deadly.

Shizen: They thought they were corrupt.  I tried to convince others it was only a certain part of nature and that they could learn to control their abilities but… I failed as a leader to them.

Zahir: And so, my friends and family were killed for politics and state of mind.

Shizen: And I am one of the ones to blame… All I could do is put the poison spirits I could reach into hiding but even some of those spots were… Found.

Jennifer: T-that’s terrible… Luka are you doing alright?  (Notices Luka is slightly paler then when he first fell).

Luka: I’m doing alright, just lying down.

Jennifer: You don’t look well Luka let me patch you up.  (Begins to try to stop the bleeding of Luka’s wounds).

Zahir: I am aware.  I managed to get contracted before they found me, so I was safe for the moment.

Shizen: Yes, it is a temporary hiding place but spirits take a long time to change laws and ways, especially when it comes to politics.  How else did you get away?

Zahir: Luka and I just got rid of every person that went after us.

Shizen: … You are still being hunted…?  How upsetting, do you know how many poison spirits are left?

Jennifer: You are still being hunted… I wish I could help.

Zahir: Well, this was our last job.

Jennifer: What are you talking about?

Luka: Zahir is going to be released after this and I will disappear.

Jennifer: … Disappear… Why?

Shizen: Your dying, aren’t you?

Jennifer: What!

Zahir: Luka has been with me since the start of everything….  He is far beyond his time of death.

Jennifer: How, do not die yet.  I can help.

Luka: You can’t, my fate is sealed.

Jennifer: (A wave of shock and regret hits her as she blames herself more than anything for causing this much harm… Even if it appeared to be an enemy).  I didn’t hurt you that badly… I am sorry I didn’t mean to… I only was protecting my friends… I am so sorry….  (Starts to tear up as she tries to fix Luka’s wounds).

Luka: No, it wasn’t you at all if wasn’t for this I wouldn’t be here still.  I see my life closing but I am happy with that.

Jennifer: (Cries as she tries to patch up Luka’s wounds more hurriedly).  No, you’re not dying!  You have been with Zahir this long; I will not let you say goodbye!

Zahir: It’s too late, the hands of time have already caught up too us both.  We wanted to see a true challenge one last time.

Luka: (Puts his hand on Jennifer’s head).  No crying over an enemy silly.  (Slowly begins to fade into light particles).

Jennifer: (Continues to cry realizing and Shizen having realized even before the fight his actions were not filled with the intent to follow through… Just to bring out a last challenge to experience together but she still has heavy guilt that she did not realize though…. But how could of she).  But I do not care that you are an enemy!  I want you to live!

Shizen: It is like when the animals you love in your forest becoming too old for you to keep healing them until their all better.  You need to understand that.

Jennifer: It is not fair!

Shizen: (Sighs).  You will understand one day even though it is the hardest lesson of all….  Zahir, Luka say your goodbyes to each other… You have a strong bond; I can see it and I know it’s difficult.

Zahir: We did before we fought you… Sorry to cause a big deal.

Luka: I have lived a life filled with fear and sorrow; it feels good to be at ease.

Jennifer: How was life filled with fear and sorrow… Were you hunted that much and who sent you to fight me maybe if you live with all of us… Even if it is only for a little bit, we could make it better.

Luka: (Laughs and then coughs).  It was fear of losing Zahir and sorrow of seeing people close to me to me die.  As much as that sounds great I gotta go see my friends and family again… They are all waiting for me.

Jennifer: I-I understand… We can protect Zahir for you… He can stay here if he wants to, I mean.

Zahir: I am afraid I am leaving as well.

Jennifer: W-what, why?

Zahir: To return to my family in the other world.

Shizen: I see, some of your family is still well… That is good to hear.

Jennifer: Luka can I ask you something else before you go… Why did you attack us?

Luka: Because I heard that someone here was very strong and that he or she could be quite a match… It gave the impression of being of nature, so I wanted to see if it was worth a great ending…I wanted a serious fight from you though… So that’s why….

Jennifer: I-I’m not that strong and not many had seen me fight, I-I never killed a person before… Why did it have to be me?

Luka: Then who was it plus this fighter didn’t kill only left them unconscious with treated wounds… It was a rumor that was in this area, no direct names or anything.

Jennifer: And so, you followed the rumor to me and watched then cut me on the arm at the party as a test to confirm it.

Luka: A party…?  What party, we have heard the rumor only yesterday.

Jennifer: Wait… That is not right I was poisoned at my mansion with a knife of some kind and followed before then… That was not you?

Zahir: If it was my poison, it would give more drastic effects.

Jennifer: Even before that a wind element user attacked us and a person my butler was close to was corrupted by a fire spirit….

Luka: I don’t know anything about that but that would explain the fire problems.

Jennifer: So, someone is trying to play a game her with us it feels like….  Who told you the rumor…? It might be the same one planning this.

Luka: Just people at a bar, don’t know the person’s name though.

Jennifer: Do you know what they looked like?

Luka: Afraid not.

Jennifer: Something’s not right here.

Luka: Alright then.

Jennifer: (The regret weighs heavily on her seeing Luka is fading).  I know you want to go but I just cannot accept it… Is there anything I can do…? I cannot be the reason you die.

Luka: You are not.

Jennifer: I cannot see how I am not.

Luka: But you gave me one last good fight.

Jennifer: I just wish you did not have to die from it… Do not die please!  (Hugs Luka as she cries and shakes him a little being very upset still).

Shizen: Child please stop, shaking a person will not keep them from dying.

Jennifer: … Oops sorry.  (Puts Luka back where he was lying).

Luka: (Continues to fade away even more as he is not fighting it).

Jennifer: You really are dying….  (Puts her hand on Luka’s shoulder but after a few seconds her hand falls through him as her eyes widen in shock).

Zahir: It looks like it’s time to go.

Jennifer: Do you think when coming here that your enemy would end up crying like an idiot over you?  (Has a small sad laugh as she finally accepts him leaving).

Luka: Maybe… Zahir as my final wish make sure to protect your family and… I miss it….  It was a good fight….

Zahir: Yes, Luka goodbye my dear friend… It was fun….  (Smiles as Luka disappears into particles and then tears fall).

Jennifer: (Cries more as Luka and Zahir say goodbye as she still sits right next to where Luka used to be).

Shizen: (Appears first in wolf form then turns into her human form going over to Zahir giving him a hug bring him out of the shadows more.  He is a stall man looking quite strong with a short hair and beard a bit unkempt.  He has deep purple eyes filled with sadness and a large scorpion tail behind him).  It is hard working with humans, and this is why… I’m sorry.

Zahir: True it is but at the same time it was a great experience… I wouldn’t exchange for anything.

Jennifer: H-how did he live so long…?

Shizen: There are ways to prolong death but never escape it.

Jennifer: … I see.

Zahir: Everyone fears death.

Shizen: Indeed, and I think I remember where I saw you last.  Were you with one of the small groups I was helping escape?

Zahir: I remember but I couldn’t go easy on you, sorry.

Shizen: It’s fine I understand, yes you were much younger then, but that group was spotted… I stalled them with a few others that were brave, but I was caught and had to flee with the rest… Once I was with did not give me the option to stay… I thought everyone died.

Zahir: I see.

Shizen: At first, they left me with fire spirits as guards before it started and I went into a rage at such betrayals to protect all of you… I-I watched so many….  (Looks down sadly not able to finish her sentence).

Zahir: No need to act like you need to be sorry.

Shizen: It was my responsibility to protect your people and I failed… It is only right for you to know… At one point I snapped I don’t know if you recall but as the child and Luka were fighting her eyes turned red for a bit, well it is an ability I have that creates a killing intent and survival instincts, hard to control… Well while I watched those spirits die… Let’s just say I am not proud of what I did… Even though there was not many left to protect at that point… I’m sorry….

Zahir: I see.

Shizen: I am glad you lived….

Jennifer: (Talks to herself as she frowns in thought).  Killing intent?

Zahir: Now why are you frowning?

Jennifer: I do not know about my eyes turning red or anything… But I remember wanting to kill Luka… And I kind of blanked out… I guess I lost it… And now he’s… Dead….  (Starts tearing up again feeling regret still).

Zahir: Even if you didn’t fight at all this would have happened.

Jennifer: It would, why?

Shizen: Remember he was past his time when he would have died.

Jennifer: … It still feels like I killed him.

Shizen: I know… It’s not a good feeling.

Zahir: He knew that, but he wanted one last good fight and this fight was a great one.

Jennifer: (Sniffles and wipes her eyes).  At least I did not disappoint.

Zahir: (Chuckles).

Jennifer: I just wish I could do something more… Well maybe just one thing….  (Places her hands on the ground and the Plants starts to glow around her hands).

Shizen: Child you’re running out of energy as it is, plus your wounds are quite bad.

Zahir: Wait a moment, let us see what happens.

Shizen: Very well.

Jennifer: (Poisonous plants start to grow and climb upwards and they slowly create a statue of as close as it could look to Luka and Zahir with gig grins and a hand on eaches shoulder).

Zahir: (Grins looking at the kind gesture).  … Ahh very nice.

Jennifer: (Is out of breath).  … The… Least I… Could do….

Zahir: Well, it seems my time is done here as well.

Jennifer: You have to go…?  You could rest up, it’s getting late.

Shizen: Remember your friends need to be helped child.

Jennifer: Oh right… Nightmares do not sound pleasant… I hope Kairi is alright….  (Starts to get up but her legs buckle under her).

Shizen: Save your strength, your wounds are still bad.  Plus, the plants covering your arm when it exploded.

Zahir: They should be waking up soon.

Jennifer: Oh good….  (Sits up weakly).  Oh, right forgot I used plants to keep my arm working… Hope it is alright….  (Removes the plants as her eyes widen in shock as there is not arm underneath… Almost as if cut off but healed).  W-where’s my arm!

Shizen: Relax child it will grow back.  It is kind of like a reptile loses a limb, it gets rid of the old one so a new one can grow.

Jennifer: I am not a reptile!

Shizen: You were part snake for a moment.

Jennifer: I am not one now!

Shizen: (Sighs) when you get more of your power back, you can or perhaps use the plants.

Zahir: Here.  (Hands Jennifer a vile).  It is medicine that will help fix all of your wounds.

Jennifer: I can do it myself….  (Pouts as she tries to cross her arms forgetting she only has one and getting even more upset).

Shizen: Is this really the time to pout and be stubborn?

Jennifer: I am not pouting.

Shizen: Says the girl bleeding out and not accepting help.

Zahir: (Hands the vile over to Jennifer anyways).

Jennifer: (Takes the vile).  Fine but I want to check on everyone first.

Shizen: Always caring about others more than yourself.

Zahir: I don’t think they will react well with you missing an arm.

Jennifer: But they are alright right…?  You know what I will go check.  (Starts walking to where her friends are struggling to stay on her feet).

Shizen: Just take the vile before they wake- and she’s gone.  That child is stubborn when it comes to people helping her, my apologies.

Zahir: No, it is fine as she said to Luka, those people mean the world to her.

Shizen: That is true, as for you, you mentioned you had family still?

Zahir: A wife waiting but I must be going.  My time is short.

Shizen: I understand well I am glad life is better for you.  I hope more poison spirits survived.

Zahir: Only a small colony, we sought refuge on an isolated island, and we are making do.  I was away far too long but I had no choice after an attempt to find more…. I was separated and needed to make a contract to survive… I miss them… I hope she is there still… Waiting for me… It’s been so long….

Shizen: I hope to come visit sometime and for you to be able to come back to where you belong with no fear.

Zahir: (Bows with a nod and small smile and then disappears into the mist).

Shizen: Farewell….  (Looks at the statue of both Luka and Zahir and then walks back).

Jennifer: (Makes it to her friends and checks on everyone who is asleep looking at Kairi first and looks relieved to find she is not hurt and then goes over to Chazz).  Well besides the bump on your head you look fine… You will just have a headache… I am glad you did not see me in the fight for a moment… I lost control… I do not want you to see me like that and I know Shizen and Zahir told me it was not my fault but… It still feels like I killed him….  Look at me, I’m telling you my problems and you’re not even awake….  (Laughs a little at that thought but then looks at Chazz’s sleeping face).  You know you look pretty cute when you’re asleep….  (Slightly smiles).

Hiki: (From behind Jennifer).  I know right.

Jennifer: Oh Hiki, you are up… I guess it makes sense for the spirits to wake up first.

Hiki: No, I have been up the entire time.

Jennifer: (Has a look of shock).  You have…?  Even through the fight?

Hiki: Just a bit.

Jennifer: (Looks down sadly).  … Oh… Can I ask what part?

Hiki: When you first started getting mad at that guy.

Jennifer: … Oh… I am sorry you had to see me like that.

Hiki: No, it’s fine.

Jennifer: Still, I don’t ever want to be like that.

Hiki: It is understandable.

Jennifer: But what if something happens where I just snap?

Hiki: Well master had snapped at that wind user.

Jennifer: … He did?

Hiki: He did kill him.

Jennifer: Oh right… I just do not feel-good right now.

Hiki: Neither did master but he is living with it.

Jennifer: I guess I will have to do the same….  (Starts to tear up).

Hiki: Not all at once.

Jennifer: Can I ask you for a hug… I could use one.

Hiki: (Hugs Jennifer comfortingly).

Jennifer: (Hugs Hiki back with one arm with the vile of medicine in her hand).  Thank you… I needed one.

Hiki: You will be fine.

Jennifer: I know, I just need a little time.  (Let’s go of the hug smiling as she opens the vile and frowning as she sniffs the medicine inside of it).

Hiki: I know.

Jennifer: Yes, but on a different note can I just wait until I get my power up more.  This smells almost worse than medicine I would make.  (Covers her nose).

Hiki: (Laughs).  Who made it then?

Jennifer: The person I was fighting, well his spirit did.

Hiki: He did?

Jennifer: Yes, he was very nice… And his master was not that bad either.

Hiki: Huh I didn’t expect that because you both moved around the area a lot so I could only see what was going on here.

Jennifer: Oh well to explain he was only looking for one last good fight because he was going to die… And he said I gave him a great fight.

Hiki: Well now how do you feel was it a fight worth remembering?

Jennifer: it was I just wish I ended differently… He said he was going to die anyways… It does not comfort me knowing that though….

Hiki: So, there was no winner actually.

Jennifer: He said he lived past what he was supposed to, but I do not really understand how that possible.

Hiki: With help from a certain element of spirits are able to make those types of medicine or the spirit gave them part of their own life force, but it is temporary and hard to do.

Jennifer: I see, I guess he knew his time was up then.

Shizen: He did.

Hiki: Usually it is used when the human is dying either from battle or sickness.  For a moment they are unable to die even after they should have, though this type of thing is taboo to use usually.

Jennifer: I see Zahir or um that is his spirits name must have really cared about him or I mean Luka.

Hiki: Seems like it.

Jennifer: It is kind of nice to see such a great bond.

Shizen: Yes, and Zahir was a very rare nature spirit, a poison spirit.  I am glad there are a few left.

Hiki: (Looks shocked).  Poison, I thought they were all gone!

Shizen: there are still some left thankfully.

Hiki: Interesting.

Shizen: I don’t know what you have heard about poison spirits, but they are not corrupt nature spirits.  They are far from it.

Hiki: I wasn’t told much so I’m not sure what to believe.

Shizen: I was there, I watched their powers develop.  I was pretty proud of them but then politics and leaders of other elements became involved and were concerned that they were too deadly….  Some decided to kill them in the riots which I did all that I could to stop them… So, I am not really a popular spirit when it comes to the other leading spirits for going against their judgment.

Hiki: I see then.

Shizen: I promise you they are good hearted spirits… They just have a power that can be very deadly.  You were probably not even born or very young when this happened so that explains why you have not heard much.  Perhaps Tori heard more about it since dark spirits were more involved.

Hiki: Maybe.

Tori: What you all saying about me?  (Opens an eye still leaning against the tree where he rested hearing his name called).  

Shizen: I see you are up.  To make it short there was a man who put all of you to sleep to fight the child because he was about to die being past when he was supposed to die so they fought to the death and he died wanting a last great battle.  His spirit’s name was Zahir.

Tori: Oh, I know him.

Shizen: Oh, you do?

Tori: Yeah, I met with him one time before that whole thing started.  We fought and it was fun.

Shizen: He did seem to enjoy fighting but you must have been much younger when this happened.  Why were you fighting, just for fun?

Tori: Pretty much.

Jennifer: Where is Zahir?

Shizen: He went back to his wife.

Jennifer: Oh, alright maybe we can go visit.

Shizen: I am not sure; they are still in hiding.  I do not want to jeopardize that.

Tori: Yeah, just leave them.

Hiki: But Tori.

Tori: That’s enough Hiki, don’t want to risk them getting found because of us.

Shizen: Especially since I am the reason, they were found last time as they escaped.

Jennifer: But what if we can protect them?

Shizen: From an army of angered spirits?

Tori: I know master would do it.

Shizen: I do not want any more of them to be harmed….  I have seen enough but I do wish for the days where they can come back home.

Tori: Of course… Now time for sleep again.  (Falls asleep almost instantly).

Hiki: Not again, grr.

Kura: Interesting.

Yami: Not very.

Hiki: Ohh.

Shizen: I take it you are up as well.

Yami: Yeah, we heard the story; don’t know why your upset.  If your weak you die, that’s how I grew up.  Survival or death. 

Kura: You were brought up wrong.

Hiki: Just a bit.

Shizen: One day you will understand when you’re older.

Yami: I’m old enough.  Old enough to understand that the one that’s stronger in a fight lives.  I’ve learned it’s not worth crying over.

Hiki: We will see then.

Shizen: To know so little.

Yami: Hey!

Hiki: Well, it’s true.

Shizen: Indeed, and child drink your medicine.

Jennifer: But it smells.

Shizen: Then go without an arm until your energy comes back.

Hiki: Come on, drink it.

Jennifer: You smell it!  (Puts the vile near Hiki’s nose).

Hiki: (Scrunches her nose a bit from the smell as she puts her hand up to cover her nose).  That does smell worse than your medicine.

Jennifer: See I was not lying.  (Stares at the vile looking unsure).

Shizen: Hiki could you at least heal her other wounds while she stares at the vile.  We could be here all night.

Hiki: Sure, I could try.

Shizen: Thank you anything you can do helps.

Jennifer: I am not that badly hurt.

Shizen: You are bleeding out.  I mean look at your stomach, didn’t you get stabbed how are you still awake?

Jennifer: Well.  (Shows the plants covering her stomach like a heavy bandage).

Shizen: You are almost out of energy.  I suggest you relax for a bit; everyone is fine.

Jennifer: Chazz and Kairi are not awake yet though.

Hiki: Just lay down, I will get you all cleaned up.

Jennifer: Fine.  (Lies down).

Shizen: Remove the plants, you can’t heal with them there.  It only stops the pain.

Jennifer: Well that why they are there in the first place.

Shizen: (Sighs as she shakes her head).  So stubborn.

Hiki: I can heal around them for now to stabilize the pain.

Shizen: Thank you Hiki.

Jennifer: Yes, I owe you one.

Hiki: (Smiles as she starts to heal Jennifer).

Jennifer: Also, I might want to mention Chazz head was stomped on… He will have a headache.

Hiki: I can help with that too.

Jennifer: Thank you Hiki it means a lot… Did you have nightmares as you slept.  I was told that would happen because of the poison.

Hiki: It was a brief dream, but it was master and Tori dying in front of me, and I couldn’t do anything to help them… I just cried on their lifeless bodies… I cried a thousand tears….  (Starts crying a little bit).

Jennifer: I am sorry it… Was not real, they are alive… I would not let that happen.  (Reaches her hand out to wipe Hiki’s tears away).

Hiki: I know it wasn’t, but it was still scary.

Jennifer: I know.

Shizen: It does not affect spirits as much as it does humans, but the nightmare is still there, only shorter.

Hiki: Yes.

Jennifer: But then how is it possible for Tori to go back to sleep?

Hiki: Tori just sleeps usually, I’m not sure.  I don’t think he even knows how.

Jennifer: That’s actually impressive.  (Laughs a little bit).

Hiki: Alright now please remove the plants.

Jennifer: Wait what!

Hiki: The plant still on you.

Jennifer: So, i-it does not hurt.

Hiki: Come on.

Jennifer: No way.

Shizen: Keep in mind she must remove the plants to heal you child however it is like tearing of a band aid off over an open wound so be careful.

Jennifer: Nope not going to happen.

Hiki: It’s either that or drink the medicine.

Jennifer: Either way I lose.

Shizen: Well either Hiki stops the bleeding, and you wait until you have enough energy to grow your arm or drink the vile and everything will be healed.

Jennifer: Like I said either way I loose.

Hiki: Just drink up already.

Jennifer: No, it smells as bad as skunk spray.

Shizen: Then Hiki will have you remove the plants covering your wounds.

Jennifer: (Pauses as she tries to think of what is the easier option).

Shizen: It’s your choice.

Hiki: It really is now come on and pick.

Jennifer: (Smells the vile with a discussed look).  I would rather not drink this.

Yami: Quit being such a coward, it’s just a little vile of stuff.  How scary is that?

Hiki: Pretty scary.

Yami: Quit being a baby.

Jennifer: Hey!

Hiki: (Laughs a bit).

Yami: Let me see that.  (Snatches the vile).

Jennifer: Hey give that back!

Hiki: Come on Yami, give it back.

Yami: What, just want to look at it.  (Looks at the liquid in the little vile and shakes it a little).

Jennifer: What’s so interesting about medicine?

Yami: (Shrugs).  Not really, just want to see why you’re being such a cry baby over it.

Jennifer: Am not!

Shizen: Child you are being stubborn, let your friends help you.

Jennifer: …. Fine.  (Looks at the plants on herself looking unsure knowing it would hurt).

Hiki: You should be fine Jenny.

Jennifer: (Looks at Hiki and nods).

Shizen: I will remove the plants myself if it helps.  (Grabs the plants).  Here I will count to 3.  (Immediately takes off the plants after saying 3).

Jennifer: (Looks like she is in a lot of pain as she coughs a little blood coming out but then passes out).

Shizen: Well at least now she will not be so stubborn about being healed… She needs it greatly.

Hiki: I am not sure about that though I will do my best.

Shizen: Kura you did mention you were support so that means you can heal, correct?

Kura: Yes Mis Shizen.

Shizen: Good you can help as well.

Kura: I plan to once I am done healing Sir Chazz; Miss Jennifer had mentioned his head was stomped on.  (As she sits with Chazz’s head in her lap with darkness around her hand that are on his head as she heals).

Hiki: Grr no fair, I wanted masters head on my lap.

Kura: My apologies, you may do so once he is healed.  I am not trying to become another rival for his love so do not worry.

Hiki: I know you are not but that does not mean I cannot get a little jealous and not really a rival because as long is master happy then I will be happy next to him.  (Looks down).  As long as I can still be at the same pace with him, and can I say I have caught up with him.  If he looks my way, then it would be nice because I love him.  I want to be able to say he has helped me change.

Kura: My apologies and he will notice you someday though he seems not very observant when it comes to that.

Shizen: Though I do enjoy watching you and the child when you are near him.  She always blushes when looking at him, it is fun to watch.

Hiki: It is fun, isn’t it?  To try and tell your feelings without actually saying them, it’s fun.

Shizen: But some days those feelings will be known I know it.

Hiki: I know they will, but I am not rushing things are good where they are.

Shizen: I agree with you.

Kura: I am done healing him would you like some help with Miss Jennifer.

Hiki: No, she is about done too but thank you Kura.

Kura: Very well he and Kairi should be able to wake soon.

Shizen: Yes, thank you Hiki for dealing with such a stubborn patient.

Hiki: Oh, this was nothing.  You should have seen master when he was younger.  He was very stubborn always wanted to be tough and say he wasn’t hurt but he actually was.  It was funny in a way.

Shizen: I can believe it.

Jennifer: (The clothes that appear every time she uses her power, fully disappears and goes back to wearing the swimsuit she was wearing at the start).

Shizen: At least she has powered down now, now she can slowly regain it.

Hiki: Though I wonder how she felt fighting in a swimsuit.  Things would have been interesting if something slipped off.  (Giggles).

Shizen: Yes, though I think she was too concerned with protecting everyone that, that was not in her mind.  If something did fall off of her, I wonder if that would have stopped the fight.  (Laughs as well).

Hiki: Or would have given him a show.  (Begins to laugh more as well).

Shizen: I think she would be covering herself more likely.  She does seem to get embarrassed easily.

Hiki: True, true still would have been interesting to watch.

Shizen: Very true though her fighting skills have grown some, she is a fast learner.

Hiki: True but she only struggles with a barrier.

Shizen: True but everything cannot be learned easily.  From what I have seen from Kairi she has trouble with combat but the barrier she learns very well.

Hiki: I think that would be because of Kura accepting her but Yami not so much since all of a humans abilities come from us.

Yami: Hey I can teach her, she’s just not good at it.

Kura: You don’t give her time to practice.  You give up teaching becoming frustrated that she doesn’t learn right away.

Yami: … Not like it’s that hard to learn.  (Shrugs).

Kura: (Sighs and shakes her head).

Hiki: If it is not hard go ahead and show her how to do it.

Yami: She’s just not good at it.  She’s better at that support crap.

Kura: (Glares at Yami).  It is not crap.  It is very important.

Yami: Ehh whatever better just to attack.

Hiki: Maybe she can be a combat support like I am.

Kura: I am sure I can figure out how to use my abilities that way.  Perhaps you could show me how.  I would be honored to learn from you.  (Bows to Hiki).

Hiki: (Gets a little embarrassed).  Umm no need to thank me really.

Kura: It is how I was raised, my apologies.

Yami: You don’t say that to me.

Kura: Because you have no manners.

Yami: Hey!

Hiki: Well, she’s not that wrong but Kura speak how you want to.

Kura: If you wish.

Shizen: You act very much like a servant.

Kura: Yes, I was taught to be respectful to all and serve my masters every order.

Shizen: I have heard of spirits who think that way, but I never agreed with it.

Hiki: It all varies really.

Kura: I am fine with it… And it looks like Sir Chazz will wake soon.  He is moving in his sleep.

Hiki: He always moves around.

Kura: I see.

Shizen: While the child is asleep, we might want to give her the medicine.

Yami: … Uh oh.  (Hides the vile behind his back).

Hiki: Yami what did you do?

Yami: … Nothing.

Hiki: (Gets closer to Yami).  Hmm?

Yami: (Back up a little looking like he knows he is in trouble).

Hiki: What happened to the vile?

Yami: N-nothing.

Shizen: What about the medicine in the vile?

Yami: (Pauses as he thinks of an answer).

Hiki: Did you drink the vile Yami?

Yami: … No….  (Backs away more and with a look that tells everyone he is lying).

Hiki: (Gets closer to Yami).  Hmm Yami?

Yami: (A vine sneaks behind Yami and hands the empty vile to Hiki).  What, hey!  (He reaches out for the vile but then back away from slowly looking scared).

Hiki: (Looks at Yami angrily).

Yami: … Well… It tastes better then it smelled….

Kura and Shizen: (Sighs and shakes their heads).

Hiki: Yami that was for Jenny.

Yami: … Oops?

Hiki: (Continues looking angrily at Yami).

Shizen: If Chazz wakes, he may freak out at the child’s wounds.  That will be your fault Yami.

Yami: Again oops?

Hiki: Then you better hope he doesn’t get mad so start working on Jenny.

Yami: what do you mean work on, I don’t heal.

Hiki: got to do something or else you might want to escape to Kairi’s mind.

Yami: ….  (Instantly disappears).

Kura: (Sighs).  Coward.

Hiki: (Sighs as well).  Kura want to help me with Jenny.

Kura: I will see what I can do.  (Walk over to help Hiki with Jennifer).

Shizen: It would be easier if her energy returned more quickly though that could take until morning.  She used quite a lot.

Hiki: Well, we better do what we can.

Kura: I will do my best.  (Her hands start to glow of darkness as she starts to try and heal Jennifer’s missing arm).

Hiki: (Pours all her energy into her healing).

Kura: The wound is healing but I do not see it growing back.

Shizen: That kind of wound cannot be healed normally.  She would have to change to part animal, that or she could use plants that cover it.

Hiki: Grr stupid Yami.

Kura: He acts his age though he has an attitude of a toddler not getting what he wants.

Hiki: If only he didn’t drink the vile.

Kura: I guess it was curiosity that drove him to do that.

Shizen: Yes, I suppose.  (She starts to fade a little bit).

Hiki: Shizen are you alright.

Shizen: Yes, I am fine.  The child is just out of energy.  I need to go back for her to regain her energy faster.

Hiki: Well then please do Shizen.

Shizen: Very well but most likely she will need to wake up first.  Right now she needs rest.

Hiki: Alright we will do what we can.

Shizen: I know you will though I may want to watch your master freak out about it or how you will hide it… Good luck.  (Laughs a little bit as she fades away completely).

Hiki: I don’t think we want to see that now.

Kura: We could cover her with leaves maybe?

Hiki: We could try.

Kura: If it comes to that but let us try to keep healing until then.

Hiki: Yes.

Kura: (Nods and then focuses on healing).

Hiki: We may want to hurry.  I think I hear my master waking up.

Kura: I am trying, would it help if I knocked him out?

Hiki: Umm I don’t think we should try.

Kura: My apologies on thinking of harming your master.

Hiki: No it is not that, it just might make things worse.

Kura: What do we do then?

Hiki: Try to hope he doesn’t kill Yami.

Kura: That may be difficult; perhaps it is best he hide until morning.

Chazz: What happened…?  (As he wakes up rubbing his head).

Hiki: oh, nothing master.

Kura: Umm yes nothing… There is no need to come over.

Chazz: Is milady alright?

Hiki: Yes, she is just fine….  (Tries to block Chazz’s view).

Kura: … Yes.  (Tries to heal still, hoping that it works but it’s not really helping since all the wounds are healed except Jennifer’s arm).

Chazz: Umm are you alright Kura.

Kura: … Huh oh yes, no need to come over Sir Chazz.

Chazz: I didn’t say anything about coming over by you.

Kura: … I am fine.  (Looks unsure of what to do as she panicky tries to heal).

Chazz: Alright then how is milady doing?

Kura: … Fine there is still no need to come over.

Hiki: Kura why?

Chazz: Why do you keep saying that?

Kura: … No reason.

Chazz: Let me see milady.

Kura: … I would prefer you not.

Chazz: Why would that be?

Kura: Because… I prefer it if you would not.

Chazz: (Begins to walk towards Kura).

Hiki: (Starts to panic a bit).

Kura: … Will you promise something?

Chazz: Promise what?

Kura: First you must promise.

Chazz: And I am asking what am I promising?

Kura: Not to freak out… Too much.

Chazz: Freak out about what?

Hiki: Umm.

Kura: Will you promise not to come over if I tell you and Hiki he will find out later most likely so might as well.  If you wish for me to explain it, you do not have to.

Hiki: Fine….

Chazz: (Gives a serious look).  Hiki what is going on.

Hiki: Umm… Don’t look at me that intensely master you will make me blush.

Chazz: Hiki come on and tell me.

Hiki: Well, you see… Miss Jennifer was fighting that Luka guy and… She beat him and all but she was critically injured from all of the poison.

Kura: I believe it was some sort of explosive poison.  There was a lot of fire that disappeared quickly when I had woken up.

Chazz: Alright then, is she alright.

Kura: Yes, she is now though she will need to rest to regain her energy to heal what we cannot.

Hiki: She would heal faster but Yami drank the vile of medicine.

Kura: Yes, he did, allow me to apologize for him and please promise not to kill him though you may punch him if you wish to.

Chazz: (Looks down and suddenly a dark gate appears next to him where everyone can hear Yami).

Yami: Oh, come on I didn’t mean to… What’s going on?

Chazz: (Looks into the gate).  Now Yami did you drink the vile?

Yami: … Maybe… No big deal, Shizen said it would grow back anyways.

Chazz: (Grabs Yami’s hand and pulls back a bit).  Do not do that anymore unless you want to risk madam’s safety.

Yami: (Looks very scared as his voice becomes a little higher pitched as well).  Got it.  (Tries to get out of Chazz’s grip a little bit).  Besides her arm will grow back so no big deal.

Kura: Yami he did not know that.

Yami: … Oh.

Chazz: (Sighs with frustration and anger).  Gah… but I will let it go for now.  (Let’s go of Yami).

Hiki: Master you are scary when mad.

Chazz: I know sorry for that.

Kura: My apologies for hiding her from you.  (No longer tries to hide Jennifer so that Chazz can see her).

Yami: (Instantly disappears into Kairi’s mind).

Chazz: Well, I know you two will do your best thank you and I would be madder but it would upset Hiki and Lady Kairi… So, I cannot do much….  (Clenches his fists).

Kura: We have healed her other injuries.  There was one through her stomach that was the worse of her injuries and I remember it happening when she shielded you lady Kairi from being killed and some wounds on her legs though not as bad.

Chazz: Want me to help.  I can do a bit of healing though it is not as strong as any of yours.  It is the least I can do.

Kura: We have already finished; we are now waiting for her to rest and regain her energy.

Chazz: Well, do what you can.  I trust you to take care of her.

Kura: Thank you.

Kairi: (As she sleeps, she talks mumbling about her dreams).  … Do not… Hurt Tori….

Hiki: (Laughs along with Chazz).  Master, I have an idea.

Chazz: What?

Hiki: To move Tori by Kairi.

Kura: Are you sure they will not wake?

Hiki: Tori sleeps through a lot of things.

Kura: I will handle it.  (Starts to make hand motions and a barrier forms under Tori like a hammock and moves him next to Kairi).

Hiki: Plus, it will make her happy.

Kura: I suppose.

Kairi: (Snuggles up to Tori holding onto him tightly in her sleep).

Hiki: See, daw so cute.

Kura: I agree it is cute.  Do you think so as well Sir Chazz, he is your spirit?

Chazz: Well, I don’t mind as long as both he and Lady Kairi are happy.

Kura: I can see they are right now.

Kairi: … Mine….

Kura: Yes, indeed cute.

Jennifer: … I guess it is kind of cute….  (Smiles as she wakes but looks very tired).

Chazz: Madam are you alright….  (Asks looking worried as he kneels by Jennifer’s side).

Jennifer: I am fine… Are you alright…?  (Sits up stiffly).

Kura: Do not push yourself.

Chazz: Milady, please take it easy.

Jennifer: I am fine… A bit tired… But thank you for healing me Hiki….  (Looks at herself).  Well, most of me….  (Laughs a little bit at herself).

Hiki: No problem but get some rest Jenny before master cries.

Jennifer: Cries…?   Why, I am fine really….  (Looks at Chazz with concern).

Chazz: (Looks down and away).

Hiki: Well, you did fight without help so he is worried about you more than you know.

Jennifer: I am sorry I fought without you, but I needed to protect everyone….  I am sorry… I did not know what else to do.

Chazz: Well, there was nothing else to do… You did what you thought was best and won… So, I am more proud of you then worried because you took your own step.

Jennifer: I guess so… I just wish it had not ended with him dying… And I hope that Kairi never has to see me lose control like that.

Chazz: (Pats Jennifer’s head).  Even if you did, we would be there to make sure you come back just fine.

Jennifer: I guess so… I just hope that I do not snap at you someday.  (Starts to get teary eyed).

Chazz: Do not worry.  You will be fine milady, no matter what I will stay your faithful butler.

Jennifer: I do not want to hurt you though if I do snap….  I remember when fighting Luka and he tried to kill you and Kairi… All I wanted in that moment is to protect you and… For Luka to die… It became a little blurry in my mind after that….

Chazz: I understand your feelings, trust me I do but there is only one thing you can do in that situation.  (Puts his forehead up against Jennifer’s forehead).  All you need to do is believe in is your own strength and never think less of it.  For you are strong enough and never doubt that.

Jennifer: (Blushes a little bit but is too emotional to react like she usually would have and closes her eyes as she cries).  I am not that strong… Not as strong as you… Even when seeing you train, I am amazed at how much you can do… I just hope one day I can be at least half as strong as you are.

Chazz: Well, that’s where you are wrong.  It is not by strength or abilities that makes someone strong.  It is their will to keep fighting even after they have been knocked down, and they keep getting back up.

Jennifer: It is not for me that I get up and fight… It is for you and Kairi….  (Cries more).  I just want to be able to protect everyone….

Chazz: And you did today, and it should not be for just you.  I fight to protect you and lady Kairi as well as everyone else around me.

Jennifer: I mean I know I did just now but… that guy, Luka who I fought turned out not to be that bad of a guy in the end.  He just wanted one last good fight.  His spirit was not that bad either and seeing them say goodbye to each other… They cared so much about each other and had been together for so long it made me feel like I am to blame for separating them… Though I was told I was not, but still it hurts.

Hiki: How would you feel if Tori and I were separated from master?  Would you still blame yourself?

Jennifer: To be honest yes even if I were not the cause of it because all three of you have become great friends.  I see that you have such a strong bond that I will do everything I can for you to stay together.  I could not bear seeing you say goodbye to him or saying goodbye to you myself… No matter what happens I want all of us to stay together somehow…. Even if parted I want to spend the next life with all of us together

Hiki: Those are normal feelings but if the two were ready and were happy why would you feel regret.

Jennifer: Because… I am not sure.  It’s kind of does not make sense when I hear it out loud but I still feel sad about it either way.  It will get better I guess… I just want to help his spirit too… I hope he is alright.

Hiki: Because you are a caring person Jenny, but you have to remember not to let this emotion interfere in battle.

Jennifer: I will try but I still have that fear that maybe someday I will snap at you.  (As she starts to look tired again).

Chazz: If you want me too, I could steal your powers for the duration of time that you lose control.

Jennifer: If it comes to that I guess so but for now I am tired again….  I have enough energy for Shizen to come out for a bit but that is it….

Chazz: No, no get some rest.  I will carry you to your room.

Hiki: Ohh lucky.

Jennifer: Very well.  (Lies back down and yawns looking very tired).

Shizen: (Appears behind both Jennifer and Chazz in her human form).  Goodnight child, you have had a long day and goodnight to everyone else.  You have helped greatly; she is lucky to have such great friends.

Hiki: Goodnight to you too Shizen.

Shizen: If you would like I could carry her.

Chazz: No, no I will carry her, thank you.

Hiki: Hmm maybe I can wake up Tori.

Shizen: Very well.

Kura: How do you plan on waking him and he may question why he is cuddling with lady Kairi.

Hiki: (Pokes at Tori’s eyes lightly).

Kura: I suppose that could work.

Tori: (Wakes up in surprise).  Wait what… Hiki why are you waking me?

Hiki: Because you are carrying Kairi.

Kura: My apologies Tori but we are leaving.  If you don’t want to carry Lady Kairi I do not mind doing so.

Tori: Sure, why not but why is she already hanging onto me?

Hiki: Don’t worry about it.

Kura: My apologies for disturbing your sleep.  You may sleep again once Lady Kairi is in her bed.

Tori: Yes, yes, I may just go rest in master’s mind.  I’ve got a comfy spot set up for me.

Kura: Very well.

Kairi: (She says as she sleeps).  … mine….

Tori: So cute… But let us move on.

Kura: We need rest so that we can train tomorrow.  He will learn not to drink medicine that is not his.  (Raises her voice so that Yami can hear her clearly when she talks about him).  He needs to be taught manners and self-control is my point.

Hiki: (Laughs and so does Tori).  Yes, yes, he does.

Shizen: Yes, and Chazz I want to talk to you when we get back and they are tucked in.  It will only be for a moment and Hiki and Tori can listen in if they wish.

Chazz: Alright, sounds good.

Shizen: Very well.  (Nods).

Chazz and Tori: (Chazz carries Jennifer and Tori carries Kairi like princesses as they begin to walk home).

Kura: (Walks silently behind everyone as she writes in a small book).

Hiki: (Peeks over Kura’s shoulder).  What are you writing about?

Kura: (Closes the book and looks a little protective of it).  It is a private hobby of mine.

Hiki: (Stares at the book).  Stare.

Kura: Oh… I umm… I would prefer you not look at it.

Hiki: Whatever you say.  (Skips in front of Chazz).

Kura: (Sighs in relief and goes back to writing).

Tori: I’m feeling sleepy still.  Are we almost there?

Chazz: Yes, we are close.

Hiki: Don’t be lazy now Tori.

Kura: (Puts her pen away and rereads everything with a slight smile).

Shizen: I believe you can make it to the mansion without sleeping.

Tori: You never know.

Shizen: If you are that tired, I will carry both of you in wolf form on my back.

Tori: Hmm tempting but I am good.  I said I would do this so I’m going to.

Shizen: Very well.

Tori: (Carries Kairi rather happily).

Kura: We are here.  Do we use the window again, we are still in swimsuits?

Chazz: No there should not be a problem.

Kura: It is late so few should be up at this hour anyways.

Chazz: We should not face much of a problem so let’s get the ladies to bed.

Kura: Just in case we should hide her arm… Or lack of one I mean….

Chazz: Do not remind me and I put a towel over her.

Kura: My apologies, I didn’t mean to.

Shizen: It should be back when she wakes though it may seem broken so she may need a sling of some sort.  I will take care of that.

Chazz: Alright then Shizen, I will leave it to you.  I hope for good results.

Shizen: She will probably need to take an easy on training tomorrow as well.

Chazz: Well for training we will mostly focus on Kairi so there is no need to train that much.  Madam needs to rest anyways.

Shizen: My thoughts as well.

Chazz: We can just do spirit training while milady does less training then usually.

Shizen: I agree and maybe she can sleep in a little, but I will join you.  I want to see the team sparring match.

Chazz: Of course.

Shizen indeed I look forward to it.  Tori if you want to you may tuck Kairi in as your master tucks the child in.

Tori: Sure, I don’t mind since I might as well.

Kura: Why do you call Miss Jennifer that?

Shizen: It is only a nickname.  I am not sure why but I though it fit at the time and so it stuck since then.

Hiki: We call Chazz master because it’s our nickname for him.

Kura: I see.

Kairi: (Says again in her sleep with her hold on Tori tightening).  … Do n’t… hurt Tori….

Shizen: (Laughs a little bit).  It is not hard to guess what her dream was.

Hiki: (Laughs as well).  It really isn’t.

Shizen: See you in a few moments Tori.

Tori: You too Shizen.  (Starts to head to Kairi’s room).

Kairi: … Tori… So nice….

Shizen: Now let’s get the child into bed before she talks in her sleep as well.

Tori: Though it is cute if I may say so.  (Looks on guard after saying that being scared of Jennifer).

Shizen: There is nothing to worry about.  She is asleep though who knows, it may be asleep where she is aware of the things around her.

Tori: I would hope not since I do not feel like running for my life yet.  It would be too much of a drag.

Hiki: (Laughs).  Well then you better hope you don’t do anything to lady Kairi then.

Tori: (Hides a blush not wanting to think of such things).  What are you saying silly?

Hiki: Oh nothing.

Kura: (Erases something in her book then writes again as if getting an idea).

Shizen: We will save that discussion for when she is older.

Jennifer: (Talks in her sleep as well).  … Going… To kill… Tori….

Chazz: Well hopefully you stay on guard Tori.

Tori: (Is shocked but then looks down as he begins to leave again).  Yes master.

Hiki: (Looks at Kura curiously wondering what she is doing).

Kura: (Looks at Hiki and then slowly closes her book but not wanting to, wanting to write, and read more).

Shizen: Perhaps her dream is relating to what is said.

Chazz: Well then, I better be careful of what I say or else she may not have a good dream.

Hiki: (Stand by Kura).  Kura are you a author?

Kura: (Seems hesitant to open up at first).  Not exactly… I write only for myself… I write about what happens around me but that I am not exactly doing now.

Hiki: So, you keep a dairy or journal of things?

Kura: Yes, and I write short stories as well which is what I am doing now.

Hiki: Oh cool, cool.

Kura: … I can let you read some, but others are more for me to enjoy reading myself.

Shizen: We will leave you two to talk if you want to.

Hiki: That would be great.

Tori: (Returns rather quickly).  Well Kairi is in bed now.

Shizen: That was quick, no problems getting away. It looked like she was holding you tightly but anyways let’s leave Hiki and Kura to talk and catch up.  We can catch up with Chazz and the child.

Tori: No problems.  (He leaves with Shizen Hiki sits really close to Kura and asks all sorts of questions).

Kura: Why are you so interested Miss Hiki?

Hiki: Because it is new for me to see you writing all of this stuff, but I don’t know, it seems cool.

Kura: Oh, I usually try to write it all when in Kairi’s mind.  (Hides the book a little bit as she talks).

Hiki: Well, it seems cool, so I am curious is all, plus I don’t get many chances to talk to you.

Kura: If you would like to read some, I could pick out a few.  I am sorry I have not talked to you that much.  Would you like to talk more?

Hiki: I would like to since you are a good person Kura.

Kura: Why thank you but what makes you say that?

Hiki: Because you just seem cool.

Kura: I seem cool…?

Hiki: Well, you are so calm most of the time, so I like you Kura.

Kura: (Looks down as it seems she is still hiding… and lying about something).  I have always been that way.  I have also been told that I am quiet but only because I usually have nothing to say.

Hiki: Huh really?  That was the same way master was when he was younger, always quiet and too himself.

Kura: Interesting but I do not think I am as young as he must have been.  I believe I am a little younger than you are though.

Hiki: Doesn’t mean he doesn’t know you feel.

Kura: I understand, he seems not to agree with me on some things though.

Hiki: He will tend to do that, but he stands for what is right and only wants what is best for everyone.

Kura: My apologies for upsetting him.  I was only taught to follow a masters every order… It was like that for a time….

Hiki: I don’t think he was upset.  He just felt that you deserved more than that treatment since he sees all spirits as a person.

Kura: I understand, I will admit that there have been others who have taken advantage of that, but I know that lady Kairi is one of that best masters I could ever ask for.

Hiki: And that master will be happy to hear that.

Kura: She is a very cheerful girl; it makes anyone smile.

Hiki: That is very true.

Kura: (Hesitates at first not sure if she should share her hands tightening around her book.  She sighs deciding to trust Hiki and hoping she does not sound to weird).  … Do you want to know what I was writing?

Hiki: If you want to share.

Kura: I also write about the people around me and the people I think should be together.

Hiki: You do?  Well, how is that going?

Kura: (Blushes a little bit but not much, just enough to be noticeable).  Fine.

Hiki: Are you alright Kura?

Kura: It’s just that no one has ever read what I have written before.  You are the first person to be interested in it.

Hiki: Well, I do like reading.

Kura: I see.  (Hesitantly hands Hiki her book with short stories of different pairs of people in adventures and romance type novel writing.  It is clear she takes inspiration from her surroundings of people like Tori and Kairi, Jennifer and Chazz… And Chazz and Hiki and even more combinations though it is easy to tell that certain pairs are liked more than others by how long the story is).

Hiki: Whoa there are a lot of them, they look pretty good to.  It’s like our adventures are all written down here too.

Kura: I have a book for every type of style… That one is romance and things similar to it.

Hiki: I may want to read some of them later.

Kura: If you wish to, though a few I think I will keep to myself if that is alright.

Hiki: Hmm fine as you wish.

Kura: It is just they are more… Well, it does involve couples but… Why am I telling you this…? I have never told anyone about my books before.

Hiki: Well, the reason is because you are opening up to me.

Kura: (Tilts her head a little).  Though I am not sure why… No one has ever asked me though.

Hiki: Because not many are interested in reading.

Kura: I suppose but feel free to borrow some at any time.

Hiki: I may just take you up on that because when everyone is sleeping.  I could always use something to read.

Kura: You do not sleep?

Hiki: No, I do, it’s just sometimes I wake up much earlier than everyone else.

Kura: I see, usually I have trouble sleeping so I stay up a little later to read or write.

Hiki: I can sleep fine, it’s just that I wake up to early.

Kura: Is it the light returning to the sky that wakes you up since you are a light spirit?

Hiki: No not anything like that, I think.   I am just an early riser.

Kura: I see then could you tell lady Kairi that I have hung out with you as she put it.  she told me that if I spent time with you that I would smile more and have more fun like you… Though I do not understand myself, does this count?

Hiki: Well, are you having fun?

Kura: I think so, it was nice talking with you.

Hiki: Well, whenever you want to talk to me just let me know.

Kura: If it bothers you let me know, I will do as you ask.  (Bows out of habit).

Hiki: But you don’t need to do as I ask.  I am your friend not your master.

Kura: (Tilts her head in a little confusion).  You may not be my master, but my master seems to look up to you, so I respect you and do not mind doing as you ask… and you called me your friend… friend…It has been a long time since I had one.  (Looks down a little as she thinks of the word).

Hiki: (Picks up Kura’s hand).  You don’t need to do anything I ask.  You wouldn’t be my friend if you do so no.  Kura do what you want when next to me, anything you wish.

Kura: Very well as you wi-… Or umm thank you.

Hiki: There we go, the first time I heard you say thank you.

Kura: It is?  That is unlike me, I apologies for my manners… This will take some getting used to.

Hiki: (Laughs and hugs Kura).  Don’t worry you are a friend so take all the time you need since you are great Kura.

Kura: Thank you, you are great as well.  (Returns the hug).

Hiki: Yay!

Kura: (Gives a confused look).  Yay?

Hiki: For you becoming my friend.

Kura: Oh, I would agree it is a good thing as well and I hope to talk with you again sometime.

Hiki: Yes of course Kura but I must go so farewell… I look forward to knowing you better so next time promise to try and open up more alright?  (Disappears).

Kura: I want to….  (Smiles and bows as she disappears as well).

 

Meanwhile as Shizen and Tori walk with Chazz to put Jennifer to bed.

Shizen: Well, this has been an eventful day hasn’t it.

Chazz: True it has been though I kind of wish it was not.

Shizen: Wishing it were not will not make it go away.

Chazz: (Laughs).  True enough.

Shizen: At least she learned from the experience.

Chazz: She also learned grief for a person that was her enemy but became her friend.

Shizen: Yes, it is a hard lesson to learn. but she and her sister seem to open up to the possibility of forgiveness well… It is a good kindhearted trait.

Chazz: It can be but is needed sometimes.

Shizen: On the bright side at least, I know that there are still poison spirits out there… They were killed off or at least I thought they were.

Chazz: True at least there is that hope.

Shizen: My apologies, you were not awake.  Would you like to know, it is alright if not.

Chazz: I would rather not.  I think Hiki and Miss Jennifer will tell me everything later.

Shizen: I will say this though, I did snap just like the child had when helping the poison spirits escape.

Chazz: Well, you must have been trying to stop someone from killing a group of them.

Shizen: Yes, in a way but I had already been caught with fire spirits guarding me keeping me away at the time.  All I could do was watch or that what I thought at the time.

Chazz: Then what happened Shizen?

Shizen: That ability where the child’s eyes glow red instead of green, do you recall other times that has happened.  It is an ability that I try to rarely use.  The only problem is that it is easy to get into the ability and not know when anger and rage rise up but much harder to get out of it.  It fills the person using it with increased instincts, survival skills and most troubling to deal with is a killing intent.

Tori: (Speaks up from behind them).  So, it’s basically a fight or flight mindset that is controlled by senses of anger and rage am I right?

Shizen: Exactly like it, many animals use it when sensing their life is threatened or the ones they care about are in danger.

Chazz: So, its rage?

Shizen: In a way, the only difference is that strength doubles or even triples from what they are capable of.  I have lost many friends because of this when I was younger but with many years I have learned from those regrets…..  Training on focus is key.

Tori: Your power would be tripled and why is that?  Did you attack them yourself?

Shizen: (Looks down a bit).  Unfortunately… Yes, in some cases.

Chazz: Rage is a powerful thing.  It blinds you of your senses and in the meantime you attack the people you care for the most.

Shizen: Exactly, why do you think I stay calm most of the time. I keep my emotions in check, so I am in control and focus.

Tori: True you are but at the same time you don’t want to fear your emotions.  They are things that make you, well you.  I understand to be scared but sometimes you have to go all out.

Shizen: I agree with you, and I did go all out when trying to help the poison spirits escape.  I could not stand watching them die after all.  What kind of leader could let that happen?

Tori: I was told about a nature spirit rampaging.  I guess it was you.

Shizen: When you see whole families being ripped apart do you blame me?

Tori: No, I don’t, I can’t stand the thought of people being taken away from their families, friends and loved ones.  Their connections will be lost to the dirt.

Shizen: Exactly now imagine being in charge of all of their safety and watching them fall as guards hold you back.  I had a very good reason to snap though I am not sure of how many were affected by my rampage.

Tori: I heard it was pretty bad for the others but good for the poison spirits.

Shizen: I had worried I had killed some poison spirits but thankfully I have more control since I have lived so long to have that experience and focused on controlling it some.  Not all though and as you can imagine I am not popular with other leading spirits who I went against.

Tori: (Laughs a little).  Well, you did what you thought was right and there is no need for blame.  Others may see it as blame towards you but to everyone else you were their savior.

Shizen: I would like to think so and as for what happened next, I went into hiding thanks to trusted nature spirits I had raised as my own and I hid as an animal nature spirit.  That animal being the wolf of course.

Tori: Alright well I am happy you were safe.

Shizen: Yes, but now you know of that ability as for the reasons the child was so skilled when you first saw her power.  The head butler had put a seal on me so that she would not lose control again, but it made it so that I could not come out or talk to her.  Therefore, she could not reach her true potential until she was ready.

Chazz: I see, I do remember him talking to me about that vaguely.

Shizen: Yes, she tried to kill him.  Sorry about that but I was the one who suggested using the seal.

Chazz: I see then well good not many people got hurt.

Shizen: Perhaps she can control it better now.  I noticed that when in that rageful state she slightly hesitates.  I will need to think of exercises for focus.

Chazz: Because milady is a kind person.  Even when she is mad, she is still caring.

Shizen: She is and that’s what helps though I have a feeling she will hold back out of fear of hurting anyone around her now.  When she recovers the first thing, I plan to do is break that fear.

Chazz: That will be very difficult to do.

Shizen: Difficult but not impossible.

Chazz: It will be very beneficial though.

Shizen: Indeed, and my apologies Tori for making it sound like I did not try when fighting you and Hiki.  I did and you are very skilled though I suggested not trying to fight me when in that rage.

Tori: Oh, trust me we will because we can definitely try to calm you down.

Chazz: That is true.

Shizen: Very well yes and I saw both of your second forms.  How long can you stay in that amount of power?

Tori: Well, we can for as long as we want.

Shizen: So, you gave yourself a time limit just so we do not destroy everything then?

Tori: Pretty much, would be kind of bad.

Shizen: Next time then maybe we should go a bit further away.

Tori: Would be better for a fact.

Shizen: Is that second form as far as you can reach?

Tori: For the moment yes.

Shizen: Do you know of a 3rd form?

Tori: Hiki and I have heard of it, but we cannot reach that yet.

Shizen: 3rd or 4th generation spirits have not learned it yet though some second-generation spirits can.

Tori: My teacher had told me about it before he disappeared but before he told me how to reach it he was gone.

Shizen: I see, well you know of the third perhaps I could help teach you.  Though I will never teach you the fourth… Ignore that forth, very few know of it.  (Pauses knowing, she should not of mentioned that far).

Tori: The what?

Shizen: … You should forget I said anything.

Tori: well alright then but I would like to learn of such a thing one day.

Shizen: (Nervously laughs).  My bad but if you do learn, never use it.

Chazz: Shizen if you want to stop talking about it, please do.

Shizen: (Sighs liking to be more upfront and honest about things).  Well, it is agreed by first generation spirits that it is forbidden to teach or even mention but what the hell I am already in trouble and have been known to be a little bit of a rebel as long as you promise to never try and learn to use it.

Tori: I rather know now to say the least, what I need to know is when I will need such a thing.

Shizen: You and Hiki or anyone else will never use it.  I forbid it, I would before any of you do as a last resort.  Even then it is greatly forrbidden.

Tori: As you say but why would it be forbidden?

Shizen: After the person uses it, they are filled with unimaginable capabilities and power… And then power wears off the person fades dies ….

Tori: (Looks shocked but at the same time not very much).  Maybe that would explain for my master.

Shizen: …It… Does for him… And the first-generation light spirits disappearance… They were very close.  (Looks down having some deeply sad memories about the subject).

Tori: (Begins to look serious).  What do you mean…? What do you know?

Shizen: (Looks nervous).  … That they disappeared at the same time?

Tori: Shizen don’t lie, what do you mean?

Shizen: (Sighs as she says to herself).  I told them I was no good at secrets.

Tori: (Looks at Shizen seriously as Chazz puts Jennifer into her bed).

Shizen: (Looks at Tori seeing how serious he looks).  If you really want to know.  It is clear you looked up to him.

Tori: He was basically a parent to me.

Shizen: (Looks down and away).  Then that just makes it harder to say… He even mentioned a promising young student he had, that was you.

Tori: What is it Shizen, what had happened.  Help me with this closure.

Shizen: (Takes a breath not knowing how to tell Tori as her breath seems a little shaky).  Yes let me get straight to the point… He went into his 4th form… And so did his wife….

Tori: (Looks down).

Shizen: I am sorry… But he did say he thought of you as one of his sons….

Tori: M… May I ask why.

Shizen: One of his sons… He was the middle one of the three… Well, he became corrupt and tried to destroy everything in order to gain power and was blinded by a rage when trying.  The 1st generation spirits even struggled fighting him so when he fought your master and his wife, they did all they could and seeing no other way to stop him before it was too late, they….  (Is unable to finish her sentence as she tears up, looking away).

Tori: I see… I see.  (Looks away).  Well at least he did it to protect everyone.

Shizen: I am sorry… I begged them not to and I was with them as their power faded… It goes away slowly making it even harder to say goodbye but… That was when he said he thought of you as a son that he was very proud of… And he would still be proud of you now.

Tori: (Begins to cry).  I see… He always did try to be the hero though he wasn’t that good at it sometimes he still tried.

Shizen: He usually would do everything possible to prevent lives lost and seeing his son go down that path of power tore him apart….  He did everything he could to make him realize that was a bad path.

Tori: I know about that….  He would go on and on about it sometimes being worried about the path he would take after he went through a great loss.

Shizen: You want to know something though….  At the end of everything… They started smiling and laughed a little as they lied their talking about all of the good times, they had….  They didn’t feel pain, sorrow, or fear of dying.

Tori: Now that is something he would do….  Being happy and even laughing when in times of sadness… That is just like him.  (Looks up at Shizen).  That is a true ending to a great warrior.

Shizen: It really was, I was a close friend to me, so I knew him well and same with his wife… Though we had our fights… we had to many good times and so did they for many others it is hard to not smile in memory as well.

Tori: Friends will fight but the feeling will be there still… And I know the feeling.

Shizen: (Hugs Tori).  I know… Just know that he loved you like a son… What am I saying you are his son, maybe not by blood but you are still his son.

Tori: (Starts to cry more).  True I should be sadder, but I finally have some closer and that makes it feel good.

Shizen: I know it must have been hard not knowing.  I am sorry for not telling you sooner, but they did not want to leave in sadness though that could not be helped… They just hoped a corrupt unbalance would not happen in there leaving.  So, no one knew besides a few at first but the grief and instability couldn’t be helped through so much grief… Many took their anger out on whatever they could even if the blame did not make sense…Grief is a powerful thing, but you are strong if you can overcome and hold those memories… Focusing on cherishing those most and staying together through those hard time… It’s what they wanted for you and the rest of their children… And to be cool in your own ways they were proud of….

Tori: I see… Him acting cool about it until the end, totally was like him.

Shizen: … His wife did think of all of this first, so it wasn’t really his idea though he agreed with it.

Tori: Well good on her though.

Shizen: Yes, now you know.  I am not sure if Hiki was close to his wife but perhaps she should know as well… But I do know that the killing of poison spirits happened after this all had happened and a council replacement was put in place to make decisions.

Tori: More than likely she might since she knows many light spirits and maybe it was set up from the incident with my teacher.

Shizen: I suppose but all I want is for poison spirits to live peaceful lives.  Yes, they had a power some couldn’t control and was deadly, but they are good hearted and caring.

Tori: Kind of is awkward for them since poison is seen as deadly yet they are kind and caring.

Chazz: They usually are, I have heard stories.

Shizen: So, have I, like I said it is a power that is hard to control especially when they are young.

Tori: Yes, poison is deadly to control, especially at a young age.

Shizen: Indeed, but let’s talk more about it tomorrow and let everyone rest… Again, I am sorry Tori for what happened… I truly am.

Tori: (Grows silent and looks down).  … well, he was a warrior, and I couldn’t be more proud of my teacher.

Shizen: And he would be proud of you as well.  In many ways you are just like him, he too could not stand seeing families being separated by death and did everything to avoid a thing like that from happening.

Tori: (Smiles and bows as he disappears not able to say another word).

Shizen: Farewell to you as well….  I understand that you could use some time alone.  (Turns to Chazz).  You should get some rest, but do you need anything before then?

Chazz: No lady Jennifer is already in her bed so I will be heading back to my room.

Shizen: I see, thank you for taking care of her.

Chazz: No need to thank me.  I am only doing what I can for milady.

Shizen: I understand, and I would suggest leaving Tori to think to himself for a little bit.

Chazz: I am planning too.  I already told Hiki the same thing plus for the first time she is not laying in my bed.

Shizen: (Laughs a little bit to the part about Hiki and then sighs).  Very well and it is hard news to take in….  He just needs some time.

Chazz: Of course, Shizen I will see you tomorrow for practice.

Shizen: Very well and goodnight.  (Bows as she fades away).

Chazz: (Leaves Jennifer’s room as Shizen bows).