"...Things should be simple if we are to easily understand what is in front of us. There should be no logic or theory needed to explain them, they should just be understood simply with the use of common sense. But, if it does exceed the realm of common sense, then many humans usually give up there, not wishing to extend their knowledge further to try to answer the problem given to them. Some may try, and some will even succeed with finding the right answer, though still, the greatest amount that could potentially get the right answer will never try to do so, for they are too lazy to think beyond. Why is that? Why do some not try to test their minds beyond what they know they can do, so that they can extend their knowledge? The truth behind it is really nothing but laziness...how horrid..."
January
OUR WORLD
Virginia's Perspective
"Ugh...It's cold out here..." Virginia trails, walking down a sidewalk.
Unlike in the Soul Society, where it's the beginning of August, and more importantly, warm, here in Terre Haute, it's cold, mid winter. So, she's had to adjust somewhat to the chilly surroundings.
She groans again.
"Man, you'd think that since I have an Ice Zanpakuto, that I'd like the cold." she says to herself, kicking at a little can, "Yet, I absolutely hate it."
...Ah...well, I don't know if I should be offended by that statement...
Virginia freezes.
...What the hell?...
"Uh...hello?" Virginia asks.
...And now you don't even recognize my voice...
Virginia blinks, before the idea pops into her head.
"Y-Yukitora? Is that you?"
She hears a light giggle.
So you do remember me?
"H-How are you?-"
We are connected Virginia. No matter where you go, I will always be here with you...
Virginia chuckles.
"So, what are you? My Guardian Angel?"
Yukitora gives a giggle now.
If that is what you want to think of me as, then I'll gladly accept that...
Without warning, the breeze picks up around her, creating a cyclone affect. Virginia closes her eyes, shielding herself so to not become colder then she already is.
Though, she's surprised, finding that the breeze soon takes on an inner warmth, blowing against her skin, yet not causing any goosebumps at all. She blinks, and looks around, before looking down, her eyes widening.
At her feet is a great White Bengal Tiger, probably four feet tall, 7 in length. Her eyes meet hers, the crystal blue calming. Virginia grins, feeling a close bond suddenly with this animal...her zanpakuto, Yukitora. In reply to this, Yukitora rubs her head across Virginia's side, purring happily. Virginia giggles, running her hand over Yukitora's head, surprised to actually feel the fur running through her fingers.
"You're cute, for being a large, probably deadly tiger." Virginia says with a laugh, walking forward, her zanpakuto walking beside her.
Yukitora laughs.
I'm truly not dangerous...at least, for those you aren't pointing my blade at...
Virginia grins.
"Yeah, that sounds good to me..." Virginia trails, her minds going to over things.
Yukitora notices, and she looks forward.
You're thinking of your friend, aren't you?...
Virginia blinks, looking down.
"H-How?-"
As I said before Master, I am connected to you...I know when something is bothering you...
Virginia's eyes narrow a bit, and she sighs, turning the corner.
"Yeah...I am thinking about her..." Virginia trails, "I wish I hadn't slapped her so hard..."
You were overcome with emotion, you cannot keep blaming yourself...besides, we all know that Miss Yattamori was being unreasonable. Even Miss Cree was taken back...
"Still, I don't think what I did was exactly right...."
Oh no, it wasn't right at all...
Virginia blinks.
"Wait, but you just said-"
I am aware of what I just said, I said you can't keep blaming yourself. That doesn't mean that what you did was right...Master, you must understand some of things she brought forth.
"Like what?" Virginia asks.
For instance, she said that she wanted you to experience a battle before you were given the seat you wanted. Though she went about saying it the wrong way, the initial argument she gave was a valid one. The battle simulated between you and Miss Cree was a long catch from what a real battle is, where people are trying to kill each other, and knowledge is much more essential to keep yourself alive.
"So, basically, she wants me to know what's going on."
Yukitora nods.
She wants you to be able to do that so that when subordinates need instruction, you will be able to do so.
As she thinks on the idea given, a knot forms in Virginia's stomach.
Now she feels even worse about what she did. Mariya was just looking out for her, when she just snapped on her when she didn't get third seat.
That's when another thought passes through her head.
"Yukitora."
Mm?
"Have you noticed anything weird about Mariya lately?" Virginia asks.
She has been off for the past few weeks, though I have just assumed it's an effect from what happened to her during the abduction.
"Same here...though, as I think on it, something about what happened is beginning to bother me."
And what would that be Master?
"The way she explained it." Virginia answers, "I mean, the initial message she gave does sound like something she'd normally say, but her explanation was just horribly out of character. And the way she snapped at me, Mariya may get mad at me, but she's never snapped at me like that before, especially for a disagreement."
She may just still be a bit out of it-
"But what if she isn't still out of it? Why would she do something that is so out of character that I would take a note of it?"
Yukitora doesn't reply for a moment, probably thinking over the thought herself to see what she makes of the idea given.
To tell the truth Master, I do not know what to tell you, other then this: Keep yourself on guard.
Virginia nods, then looks forward.
"Well, for now, let's get our mind off that." Virginia says as she walks up to the building, "It's time to go and visit the Mariya on this side."
Yukitora purrs in reply, slipping through the door in front of Virginia.
Soon, Virginia finds herself in the familiar hallway, feeling strange, being that she's the only one that's come. The other times she's always been with Cree, Kayla, and Bianca, so it's weird for her to only hear the echo of her feet. She looks ahead, and grins as she comes across a familiar face.
"Hello Ma'am." Virginia says.
The woman turns, and grins, being the nurse from the previous times.
"Why hello there Miss. Are you alone today?" she asks.
"Yeah, the others were too busy, so I told them I'd come in check in on her." Virginia lies.
"Oh, well that's very sweet." she answers with a smile, before turning slightly, "Just follow me, I had to go check on her anyway."
"So how is Mariya?" Virginia asks as she follows.
"She's actually doing tremendously well. The number of her outbursts have gone down to pretty much zero. The improvement has stumped all of us." the nurse explains.
Virginia smiles.
"Well, that's great." Virginia says.
The nurse laughs.
"Why yes, you should of seen the relief on her family's faces." she says, "Hopefully with some time, she'll come out of her coma."
Virginia grins.
"I can't wait."
The nurse grins, finally stopping as they come to stand outside Mariya's room.
"Here we are." she says as she opens the door, stepping to the side to allow Virginia to enter first.
Virginia gives her a nod of thanks, walking inside to find herself standing only a few feet from Mariya. She walks closer, grinning as she comes to rest her eyes on her sleeping friend. Unlike last time, she looks like she's only sleeping, the sheets changed, and her face and hair all washed up. Any remnants of the blood that had dried is gone, and she just looks comfortable. Mariya's face is content, seeming to be at peace.
"Mariya..." Virginia trails.
"You two good friends?" the nurse asks as she begins to fill out Mariya's chart.
"Yeah, we've been good friends for about a year now." Virginia answers.
"How did you two meet?"
"Well, I had moved schools, and didn't really have friends. I play clarinet, so I joined the band, and she plays flute, so we had the same class." Virginia says, "When I first met her, she wasn't that popular. In fact, she didn't even really have a friend per say. She was more quiet, but, she always smiled at me. So, after a while, I began talking to her. As this began, I became good friends with one of the other girls. Mariya and I became good friends, and soon I introduced her to Cree, and since, the three of us have been best friends."
The nurse smiles.
"That sounds good." she comments.
Virginia grins.
"Yeah, but the last time we saw each other, we got in an argument. She's in charge of our group project, and she gave Cree the job I wanted, so I yelled at her. In the end, we were yelling, and I ended up slapping her before storming out..." Virginia trails.
The nurse clicks her pen as she finishes.
"I feel bad..."
"Well hun, you'll just have to apologize once she wakes up." she says, "Now, if you'll excuse me, I'll be going. When you're leaving, please run it by me, alright doll?"
Virginia nods.
"Alright."
With a smile, the nurse disappears into the hall, closing the door behind her, and leaving Virginia alone with Mariya.
Virginia sighs, turning back to face Mariya.
"Hey...you probably can't hear me...but...well..." Virginia trails, "I'm sorry about slapping you...I mean, you knew I wanted the third seat, but you gave it to Cree, even though I'm stronger. That's all I saw about it, and I got mad...But now that I know what you were really doing, I must say I'm really sorry. I guess I should learn how to think through what I'm being told, huh Mariya?"
Mariya remains silent.
"I'll be sure to apologize first thing when I get back, at least then you'll be able to hear what I'm saying." Virginia adds with a tiny laugh, reaching for her hand, "I'm sorry Mariya."
As she takes Mariya's hand, Virginia's eyes widen as she finds herself no longer in the hospital room, but the familiar, cold stone corridor that she's visited before.
"What the..." she trails.
"C'mon, let's just do it once. After, we won't do again."
Virginia's eyes widen as she hears a familiar voice. She turns, her eyes widening as she sees the Bijuu that had attack Mariya and her the day Mariya disappeared, walking with another.
The one that attacked them sighs.
"Alright, but just once."
The other does a fist pump in happiness, walking passed her without even sensing her present, meaning she must really be there in spirit. She quickly follows after, curious of their plans.
Soon, they come to a cell, separated from all the others, in a corner of the hall. Inside, Virginia can hear slightly forced breathing, a cough escaping every now and again.
"What..."
"Yo, Yattamori! How ya feelin'?"
Virginia's eyes widen.
..What?!..
The figure inside turns it's head, said to be Mariya. Though, that doesn't make sense, considering Mariya escaped.
"What the hell could you two possibly want?"
The hairs on Virginia's arms stand, Mariya's recognizable voice carrying from inside the cell.
The pumped Bijuu grins.
"Just wantin' to check in on ya. But hey, guess what?"
"What?"
"You're little old boy toy-"
"Toshiro is not my boy toy." Mariya interrupts.
A slight sneer crosses the Bijuu's face.
"Oh? Well, I thought he was, considering how depressed he seems to be without you." he says, "I mean, he even tried to freeze himself over because of you. How does that make you feel, my dear?"
Mariya clenches her hands into fists, causing the Bijuu to grin, nodding to his counterpart.
"You know, dear Captain Yattamori, we've been discussing something." he starts, "Something that could become a very entertaining time."
"What could that possibly be?" Mariya asks.
"Well, I'm guessing you know football. Our game is called headball. Basically it's the same, though there is a catch."
"What?"
"The balls are actually heads!" the other Bijuu laughs, "Now, who's head should we start with? That pip-squeek Virginia?"
Virginia gulps, noticing that Mariya is beginning to shake.
"No no, too easy. What about that Cree girl?"
"No, too much hair."
"What about that duo that took on Shukaku, Kayla and Bianca?"
"Nah."
"Her lieutenant?"
"No, too boring for my tastes."
"How about the midget himself, Hitsugaya?"
Mariya's shaking worsens, as Virginia gets what they're doing.
"Why are they trying to get her to attack?" she asks herself.
"You bastards..." Mariya trails.
"His head could be perfect, though I did just think of an excellent idea."
"What would that be?"
"Kill all of em, and then switch on a daily basis!"
"Sounds smart-"
"BASTARDS!" Mariya snaps, "HOW DARE YOU!"
With that, Mariya begins to glow green, her eyes taking on a light blue tint.
The Bijuu laugh, and soon the sneer on Mariya's face is replaced by a scared, but blank frown.
"Mariya.." Virginia trails as she hears a beeping.
Then, she's back in our world. She looks around, then turns back to see Mariya, sleeping soundly. Virginia sighs.
"That must of been one of Mariya's memories of what happened to her. Those horrible men, trying to mess up her ways of thinking just for the fun of it-"
"AAAAHHHHHHHHHH!"
Virginia jolts, falling to the floor as she spooked by Mariya's sudden outburst.
"W-What the-?!" Virginia starts.
"Oh no! Not another episode!"
Virginia turns to see the nurse, her eyes wide in alarm as she hits the alarm, before walking over to help Virginia up.
"M-Ma'am, I thought you said she-" Virginia starts.
"I know, but Mariya's condition is strange and unique, no one knows what is going on, and it appears that unlike what we thought, she hasn't gotten out of the woods yet." the nurse interrupts, "I'm sorry dear, but for now you'll have to leave.
"Ack!"
They both turn at the harsh gasp that escapes Mariya's lips, blood spatting onto the clean sheets.
Virginia's eyes widen.
"Mariya..."
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Houkou's Perspective
"Ugh, this sucks." Bianca sighs.
"What?" Houkou, disguised as Mariya, asks.
"Virginia, I can't believe she flaked and went home." Kayla answers.
"She had her reasons." Houkou says.
"She had a fit because she didn't get third seat, then slapped you!" Kayla argues, "That's not good reason to run off."
"Kayla, you have to have more patience with Virginia then with most." Cree says, "She's the newest one here, and has only begun to adapt to this world. What happened since she's come here is a bit hard on the brain in the terms of coming to process it. Just give her time. She'll come back when she's ready."
Houkou blinks.
She's only been given the information needed about these girls so that she's believable enough to be accepted by them, so to see them act as they usually do is a new experience for her. They seem helpful and smart, especially the Cree girl. If she was on the Bijuu's side, Houkou has no doubt that she probably would be a high ranked official, maybe even one of the advisers to the Master.
They're not exactly as dangerous as they're made out to be by Shukaku and the others who have encountered them before, but then again, when Shukaku has interacted with them, there's usually a fight going on, so they're usually battle ready. But right now, they're relaxed, and are just hanging out, not knowing that one of their greatest enemies sits among them.
Cree notices Houkou's staring.
"Mariya? Something wrong?" she asks.
"H-Huh?" Houkou answers.
"Mariya, are you zoning out on us?" Kayla asks.
Houkou grins.
"S-Sorry, I'm just worried about Virginia." she says, lying with something she thinks Captain Yattamori may say.
Bianca grins.
"Don't worry, she'll be back." Bianca says.
Houkou looks over at her, studying her.
Out of all of them, Bianca seems to be one of the weaker ones, besides Kayla. Her zanpakuto is named Aratatsuki, and has the power of dreams, mirrors, and illusions. She seems to have a bunch of weaknesses, and in essence, is weak, probably not that great at hand to hand combat, or even sword play. Out of the big five, she is the most quiet, and most reserved, though seems to be intelligent. She's pretty, as are the others, and out of all of them, has the coolest looking hairstyle. And, she wears a star pendant, as each wears one, the reason unknown to her.
"Thanks Bianca." Houkou says.
"Hey."
They all blink and turn around, Houkou's eyes widening some as she recognizes Toshiro Hitsugaya.
Her target.
"Oh, hey Toshiro." she says in Captain Yattamori's voice, the sound of it escaping her lips still a new feeling to her.
"Yattamori, what are you guys doing?" he asks, his deep teal eyes slightly questioning.
"Talking about Virginia." Kayla answers for her.
"Yeah, what are you doing here Toshiro?" Cree asks.
"Yattamori asked me to come over." he says, looking over at her, "So why am I here?"
Houkou grins as she stands.
"I'm taking you on a little field trip." Houkou says as she takes a hold of his wrist, walking towards the door.
He blinks in surprise.
"H-Huh?" he asks.
"Where are you taking him Mariya?" Bianca asks.
"It's a surprise." Houkou answers.
"Yattamori-" Toshiro starts.
Without warning, she flashsteps, cutting Toshiro off as she blasts past trees and other buildings of the Sereitei.
"M-Mariya!" Toshiro yells, irritated slightly by her actions,
"What?" she asks, "And why are you calling me Mariya?"
She knows enough to know that Toshiro doesn't call Captain Yattamori by her first name often.
"Cause I'm irritated!" he replies, "Where are you taking me?!"
"You'll see, stop being such a stick in the mud."
"I am not!"
She laughs, but her laughter is real, humored by this boy's stubbornness.
After a bit, they land in a field, surrounded by tall grasses. Toshiro blinks, taken by surprise as he looks around.
"Uh, I'm confused." he admits.
"I'm taking a breather! I need some fresh air!" Houkou says as she stretches her arms up to the sky, "I brought you with so you could get one too."
Toshiro blinks, then sighs.
"Yattamori, you're crazy." he comments.
She laughs.
...You haven't seen crazy yet, boy...
"Let's just relax for a bit, alright?" she says, "Just take in the surroundings."
After a moment, he grins, giving a chuckle. Her eyes flash wide for a second, before she turns away, a weird feeling growing in her chest.
...Whoa, what was that?...That was the same feeling I had from the night before...
"Yattamori?"
Houkou blinks.
"H-Huh?" she asks.
"You ok?" he asks, one of his silver eyebrows raised.
"Oh, yeah, I'm fine. Just trying to clear my mind." she replies.
He watches her for a moment, then sighs.
"Alright then." he says.
She grins, turning away again.
With a smirk, she reaches her hand to her back, grabbing the hilt of her dagger blade.
Now is the time, along and secluded, she'll kill him here, then return to the Master with some of his blood as she had asked, leaving his corpse here to be found later, or eaten by the animals of the woods. That's the simplest assassination she's ever done as a top assassin of the Bijuu. She takes a deep breath, and prepares herself, turning.
...Here I go-
"Surprise for you too."
Her eyes widen as Toshiro takes hold of her free hand, pulling her into him. She looses all concentration instantly, blushing as she looses her grip on the hilt of the weapon, using it to take a hold of his sleeve.
"T-Toshiro-" she stutters.
Without warning, she's lifted high off the ground, Toshiro know the one catching her off guard as he flashsteps.
W-What?!
She holds onto him tight, not wanting to fall out of his grip. Her attempt to hold on better causes Toshiro to chuckle, causing her cheeks to grow warmer, which irritates and confuses her at the same time.
"T-Toshiro!" she yells.
"See how it feels to be taken someplace without knowing?" he asks, "Now maybe you'll think before doing that again to me Yattamori."
She grumbles.
"You're mean." she comments.
"Call me what you will, but trust me when I say you'll like your surprise." Toshiro replies.
Soon, they come to land in a village, many of the villagers wide-eyed as they appear at random. Though, Houkou is surprised even more when some actually seem to run off at the sign of their presence.
Are Captain Yattamori and Hitsugaya not liked by the people here?
"Toshiro-" Houkou starts.
"Come on, it's this way." Toshiro interrupts, taking hold of her hand, pulling her away from the staring eyes.
She reddens again, not sure what to do other then take grip of his hand.
Again, she looks around, now noticing some groups beginning to whisper among themselves.
Using her Bijuu abilities, she zones in on a few.
"...Oh look, Miss Yattamori and Hitsugaya are here."
"...Wow, I heard she had come back from the dead, but I never thought it was true...And somehow that guy got to her again..."
"...Damn, Mariya has grown into a babe!...An apparently powerful one too...Toshiro doesn't deserve her as a friend, much less an acquaintance..."
"...Look at how he's holding her hand. I tell you, that girl has the worse taste in boys, going for that guy when she can do so much better..."
"...Mariya and Toshiro must be a couple by now...who knows what he did to blackmail her into a relationship..."
Houkou's brow furrows. All the conversations around them have one basic similarity. They think highly of her, but Toshiro is received with the same respect as a bug. Unwanted.
She looks over at Toshiro, seeing that he's probably ignoring the chatter among the breeze.
He is a lot like her. She has always been an outcast among the Bijuu. She's always voiced her optimistic opinions about peace, and for that many hate her, shun her, and have dubbed her an outsider from the forces. Only when she was called forward by the Master and given a title as a head Bijuu did she gain some respect. Though, that was little, considering she's still pushed around by all the others, and the underlings still see her as nothing but a useless mass of space.
She subconsciously walks faster so that she is beside him, before whispering in her ear.
"Hey, let's make 'em a bit sorry."
He blinks, looking over at her.
"What do you mean?" he asks.
"Just go along with what I do, alright?" she says, looking him in the eyes.
He stares at her for a long moment before he sighs, and gives a nod.
She grins.
"You'll thank me for this." she comments.
In the most graceful way, she takes her hand from his, and wraps it around his upper arm, pulling him closer to her as she laces her fingers of her other hand with his.
His expression is priceless, one of shock and just plan confusion as his cheeks redden.
"M-Mariya-" he stutters.
"Oh, c'mon. You said I could hang onto you once we got here." she says with a silly pout, "Don't be stingy, a boyfriend should be cute and go with the flow."
He reddens even more.
"B-Boyfriend?!" he stutters quietly.
Houkou turns her hearing back on.
"...What did she just call him?!"
"...I was just kidding when I said he was with her. You mean he was actually able to get her to be his Girlfriend?!.."
"...Mariya is with Toshiro?! How did he do that?!"
"...Y'know, now that I look at him, he isn't that bad..."
"...Maybe you should ask him out sometime..."
She grins. Her idea is working. It seems that everyone is so stunned by Toshiro getting Mariya that they're actually beginning to readjust their opinions so it can make more sense to them!
Toshiro leans over to whisper in her ear.
"Mariya, this is embarrassing." Toshiro comments.
"Toshiro, it's working." She replies, "They're all jealous of you...hmm, didn't know I was such a catch."
He sighs.
"Now, for a finishing touch." she comments.
"What?-" he starts.
His eyes grow wider then ever as she plants a kiss on his cheek, nuzzling him after she pulls away. Blush rises in her cheeks as well, hearing a few gasps escape some of the villagers' mouths. Toshiro has no idea what to do, too taken back by what she's doing to be able to react, stop her, or voice his opinion. Infact, in a way, it seems that the most natural thing for him to actually do is go along with it, moving his head with her`s as she nuzzles at his neck.
Finally, they come to a cute, closing the door behind them as they finally separate.
"Oh my God, that was great." Houkou laughs.
"Great? That was heart stopping!" Toshiro argues.
"In a good way right?" she asks.
"Hello?"
There eyes widen, and they turn, a smile appearing on Toshiro's face as he spots the old woman. Her eyes follow his, and a smile appears on her face as well. This must be Hitsugaya's Grandmother, the same woman that took Captain Yattamori in when she was a young child as her own. She was also one that encouraged the two to enter the Soul Reaper Academy.
"Hi Grandma." Toshiro says with a grin.
Her face lights up as she registers the two.
"Oh Toshiro, Mari!" she explains with joy, "I've missed you two!"
Toshiro responds by walking over to her so she doesn't have to get up, kneeling beside her. She reacts by throwing her arms around him, taking Toshiro by surprise. Though, he grins, and soon hugs her back. With that, she walks closer, coming to stand over the two.
Now would be a great time to take care of Hitsugaya. He's open, and it would be easy to get in a kill shot. Her hand even flinches for a moment as to take hold of her blade, wanting to finish her job now.
Though, she can't bring herself to do it.
"Oh, dear Mari, come here." Hitsugaya's Grandmother's asks, "Toshiro told me the joy of your return, but this is my first time I see you since then."
Houkou grins, kneeling beside Hitsugaya.
"Hello Granny." she says sweetly.
Her reply is to pull Houkou into a warm embrace, taking her by surprise. At first, she doesn't know what to do, not really ever having someone hug her like this. But, soon, she naturally wraps her arms around the woman, smiling.
"Oh, you sweet girl, I'm so glad your back, well, and safe." Granny says with a joyous tone.
Houkou's brow furrows for a slight instant, before she holds Granny tighter.
"I've missed you." she replies.
"I've missed you more, more dear Mariya."
Mariya...
She has missed Mariya, not her.
This hug, this happiness. It's not for her.
It's for Mariya.
Though, as this crosses her mind, she throws it away, just wanting to enjoy the great surprise Toshiro has given her, and trying her best to ease the mind of their old Granny, as she still holds her tight.
January
OUR WORLD
Virginia's Perspective
"Ugh...It's cold out here..." Virginia trails, walking down a sidewalk.
Unlike in the Soul Society, where it's the beginning of August, and more importantly, warm, here in Terre Haute, it's cold, mid winter. So, she's had to adjust somewhat to the chilly surroundings.
She groans again.
"Man, you'd think that since I have an Ice Zanpakuto, that I'd like the cold." she says to herself, kicking at a little can, "Yet, I absolutely hate it."
...Ah...well, I don't know if I should be offended by that statement...
Virginia freezes.
...What the hell?...
"Uh...hello?" Virginia asks.
...And now you don't even recognize my voice...
Virginia blinks, before the idea pops into her head.
"Y-Yukitora? Is that you?"
She hears a light giggle.
So you do remember me?
"H-How are you?-"
We are connected Virginia. No matter where you go, I will always be here with you...
Virginia chuckles.
"So, what are you? My Guardian Angel?"
Yukitora gives a giggle now.
If that is what you want to think of me as, then I'll gladly accept that...
Without warning, the breeze picks up around her, creating a cyclone affect. Virginia closes her eyes, shielding herself so to not become colder then she already is.
Though, she's surprised, finding that the breeze soon takes on an inner warmth, blowing against her skin, yet not causing any goosebumps at all. She blinks, and looks around, before looking down, her eyes widening.
At her feet is a great White Bengal Tiger, probably four feet tall, 7 in length. Her eyes meet hers, the crystal blue calming. Virginia grins, feeling a close bond suddenly with this animal...her zanpakuto, Yukitora. In reply to this, Yukitora rubs her head across Virginia's side, purring happily. Virginia giggles, running her hand over Yukitora's head, surprised to actually feel the fur running through her fingers.
"You're cute, for being a large, probably deadly tiger." Virginia says with a laugh, walking forward, her zanpakuto walking beside her.
Yukitora laughs.
I'm truly not dangerous...at least, for those you aren't pointing my blade at...
Virginia grins.
"Yeah, that sounds good to me..." Virginia trails, her minds going to over things.
Yukitora notices, and she looks forward.
You're thinking of your friend, aren't you?...
Virginia blinks, looking down.
"H-How?-"
As I said before Master, I am connected to you...I know when something is bothering you...
Virginia's eyes narrow a bit, and she sighs, turning the corner.
"Yeah...I am thinking about her..." Virginia trails, "I wish I hadn't slapped her so hard..."
You were overcome with emotion, you cannot keep blaming yourself...besides, we all know that Miss Yattamori was being unreasonable. Even Miss Cree was taken back...
"Still, I don't think what I did was exactly right...."
Oh no, it wasn't right at all...
Virginia blinks.
"Wait, but you just said-"
I am aware of what I just said, I said you can't keep blaming yourself. That doesn't mean that what you did was right...Master, you must understand some of things she brought forth.
"Like what?" Virginia asks.
For instance, she said that she wanted you to experience a battle before you were given the seat you wanted. Though she went about saying it the wrong way, the initial argument she gave was a valid one. The battle simulated between you and Miss Cree was a long catch from what a real battle is, where people are trying to kill each other, and knowledge is much more essential to keep yourself alive.
"So, basically, she wants me to know what's going on."
Yukitora nods.
She wants you to be able to do that so that when subordinates need instruction, you will be able to do so.
As she thinks on the idea given, a knot forms in Virginia's stomach.
Now she feels even worse about what she did. Mariya was just looking out for her, when she just snapped on her when she didn't get third seat.
That's when another thought passes through her head.
"Yukitora."
Mm?
"Have you noticed anything weird about Mariya lately?" Virginia asks.
She has been off for the past few weeks, though I have just assumed it's an effect from what happened to her during the abduction.
"Same here...though, as I think on it, something about what happened is beginning to bother me."
And what would that be Master?
"The way she explained it." Virginia answers, "I mean, the initial message she gave does sound like something she'd normally say, but her explanation was just horribly out of character. And the way she snapped at me, Mariya may get mad at me, but she's never snapped at me like that before, especially for a disagreement."
She may just still be a bit out of it-
"But what if she isn't still out of it? Why would she do something that is so out of character that I would take a note of it?"
Yukitora doesn't reply for a moment, probably thinking over the thought herself to see what she makes of the idea given.
To tell the truth Master, I do not know what to tell you, other then this: Keep yourself on guard.
Virginia nods, then looks forward.
"Well, for now, let's get our mind off that." Virginia says as she walks up to the building, "It's time to go and visit the Mariya on this side."
Yukitora purrs in reply, slipping through the door in front of Virginia.
Soon, Virginia finds herself in the familiar hallway, feeling strange, being that she's the only one that's come. The other times she's always been with Cree, Kayla, and Bianca, so it's weird for her to only hear the echo of her feet. She looks ahead, and grins as she comes across a familiar face.
"Hello Ma'am." Virginia says.
The woman turns, and grins, being the nurse from the previous times.
"Why hello there Miss. Are you alone today?" she asks.
"Yeah, the others were too busy, so I told them I'd come in check in on her." Virginia lies.
"Oh, well that's very sweet." she answers with a smile, before turning slightly, "Just follow me, I had to go check on her anyway."
"So how is Mariya?" Virginia asks as she follows.
"She's actually doing tremendously well. The number of her outbursts have gone down to pretty much zero. The improvement has stumped all of us." the nurse explains.
Virginia smiles.
"Well, that's great." Virginia says.
The nurse laughs.
"Why yes, you should of seen the relief on her family's faces." she says, "Hopefully with some time, she'll come out of her coma."
Virginia grins.
"I can't wait."
The nurse grins, finally stopping as they come to stand outside Mariya's room.
"Here we are." she says as she opens the door, stepping to the side to allow Virginia to enter first.
Virginia gives her a nod of thanks, walking inside to find herself standing only a few feet from Mariya. She walks closer, grinning as she comes to rest her eyes on her sleeping friend. Unlike last time, she looks like she's only sleeping, the sheets changed, and her face and hair all washed up. Any remnants of the blood that had dried is gone, and she just looks comfortable. Mariya's face is content, seeming to be at peace.
"Mariya..." Virginia trails.
"You two good friends?" the nurse asks as she begins to fill out Mariya's chart.
"Yeah, we've been good friends for about a year now." Virginia answers.
"How did you two meet?"
"Well, I had moved schools, and didn't really have friends. I play clarinet, so I joined the band, and she plays flute, so we had the same class." Virginia says, "When I first met her, she wasn't that popular. In fact, she didn't even really have a friend per say. She was more quiet, but, she always smiled at me. So, after a while, I began talking to her. As this began, I became good friends with one of the other girls. Mariya and I became good friends, and soon I introduced her to Cree, and since, the three of us have been best friends."
The nurse smiles.
"That sounds good." she comments.
Virginia grins.
"Yeah, but the last time we saw each other, we got in an argument. She's in charge of our group project, and she gave Cree the job I wanted, so I yelled at her. In the end, we were yelling, and I ended up slapping her before storming out..." Virginia trails.
The nurse clicks her pen as she finishes.
"I feel bad..."
"Well hun, you'll just have to apologize once she wakes up." she says, "Now, if you'll excuse me, I'll be going. When you're leaving, please run it by me, alright doll?"
Virginia nods.
"Alright."
With a smile, the nurse disappears into the hall, closing the door behind her, and leaving Virginia alone with Mariya.
Virginia sighs, turning back to face Mariya.
"Hey...you probably can't hear me...but...well..." Virginia trails, "I'm sorry about slapping you...I mean, you knew I wanted the third seat, but you gave it to Cree, even though I'm stronger. That's all I saw about it, and I got mad...But now that I know what you were really doing, I must say I'm really sorry. I guess I should learn how to think through what I'm being told, huh Mariya?"
Mariya remains silent.
"I'll be sure to apologize first thing when I get back, at least then you'll be able to hear what I'm saying." Virginia adds with a tiny laugh, reaching for her hand, "I'm sorry Mariya."
As she takes Mariya's hand, Virginia's eyes widen as she finds herself no longer in the hospital room, but the familiar, cold stone corridor that she's visited before.
"What the..." she trails.
"C'mon, let's just do it once. After, we won't do again."
Virginia's eyes widen as she hears a familiar voice. She turns, her eyes widening as she sees the Bijuu that had attack Mariya and her the day Mariya disappeared, walking with another.
The one that attacked them sighs.
"Alright, but just once."
The other does a fist pump in happiness, walking passed her without even sensing her present, meaning she must really be there in spirit. She quickly follows after, curious of their plans.
Soon, they come to a cell, separated from all the others, in a corner of the hall. Inside, Virginia can hear slightly forced breathing, a cough escaping every now and again.
"What..."
"Yo, Yattamori! How ya feelin'?"
Virginia's eyes widen.
..What?!..
The figure inside turns it's head, said to be Mariya. Though, that doesn't make sense, considering Mariya escaped.
"What the hell could you two possibly want?"
The hairs on Virginia's arms stand, Mariya's recognizable voice carrying from inside the cell.
The pumped Bijuu grins.
"Just wantin' to check in on ya. But hey, guess what?"
"What?"
"You're little old boy toy-"
"Toshiro is not my boy toy." Mariya interrupts.
A slight sneer crosses the Bijuu's face.
"Oh? Well, I thought he was, considering how depressed he seems to be without you." he says, "I mean, he even tried to freeze himself over because of you. How does that make you feel, my dear?"
Mariya clenches her hands into fists, causing the Bijuu to grin, nodding to his counterpart.
"You know, dear Captain Yattamori, we've been discussing something." he starts, "Something that could become a very entertaining time."
"What could that possibly be?" Mariya asks.
"Well, I'm guessing you know football. Our game is called headball. Basically it's the same, though there is a catch."
"What?"
"The balls are actually heads!" the other Bijuu laughs, "Now, who's head should we start with? That pip-squeek Virginia?"
Virginia gulps, noticing that Mariya is beginning to shake.
"No no, too easy. What about that Cree girl?"
"No, too much hair."
"What about that duo that took on Shukaku, Kayla and Bianca?"
"Nah."
"Her lieutenant?"
"No, too boring for my tastes."
"How about the midget himself, Hitsugaya?"
Mariya's shaking worsens, as Virginia gets what they're doing.
"Why are they trying to get her to attack?" she asks herself.
"You bastards..." Mariya trails.
"His head could be perfect, though I did just think of an excellent idea."
"What would that be?"
"Kill all of em, and then switch on a daily basis!"
"Sounds smart-"
"BASTARDS!" Mariya snaps, "HOW DARE YOU!"
With that, Mariya begins to glow green, her eyes taking on a light blue tint.
The Bijuu laugh, and soon the sneer on Mariya's face is replaced by a scared, but blank frown.
"Mariya.." Virginia trails as she hears a beeping.
Then, she's back in our world. She looks around, then turns back to see Mariya, sleeping soundly. Virginia sighs.
"That must of been one of Mariya's memories of what happened to her. Those horrible men, trying to mess up her ways of thinking just for the fun of it-"
"AAAAHHHHHHHHHH!"
Virginia jolts, falling to the floor as she spooked by Mariya's sudden outburst.
"W-What the-?!" Virginia starts.
"Oh no! Not another episode!"
Virginia turns to see the nurse, her eyes wide in alarm as she hits the alarm, before walking over to help Virginia up.
"M-Ma'am, I thought you said she-" Virginia starts.
"I know, but Mariya's condition is strange and unique, no one knows what is going on, and it appears that unlike what we thought, she hasn't gotten out of the woods yet." the nurse interrupts, "I'm sorry dear, but for now you'll have to leave.
"Ack!"
They both turn at the harsh gasp that escapes Mariya's lips, blood spatting onto the clean sheets.
Virginia's eyes widen.
"Mariya..."
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Houkou's Perspective
"Ugh, this sucks." Bianca sighs.
"What?" Houkou, disguised as Mariya, asks.
"Virginia, I can't believe she flaked and went home." Kayla answers.
"She had her reasons." Houkou says.
"She had a fit because she didn't get third seat, then slapped you!" Kayla argues, "That's not good reason to run off."
"Kayla, you have to have more patience with Virginia then with most." Cree says, "She's the newest one here, and has only begun to adapt to this world. What happened since she's come here is a bit hard on the brain in the terms of coming to process it. Just give her time. She'll come back when she's ready."
Houkou blinks.
She's only been given the information needed about these girls so that she's believable enough to be accepted by them, so to see them act as they usually do is a new experience for her. They seem helpful and smart, especially the Cree girl. If she was on the Bijuu's side, Houkou has no doubt that she probably would be a high ranked official, maybe even one of the advisers to the Master.
They're not exactly as dangerous as they're made out to be by Shukaku and the others who have encountered them before, but then again, when Shukaku has interacted with them, there's usually a fight going on, so they're usually battle ready. But right now, they're relaxed, and are just hanging out, not knowing that one of their greatest enemies sits among them.
Cree notices Houkou's staring.
"Mariya? Something wrong?" she asks.
"H-Huh?" Houkou answers.
"Mariya, are you zoning out on us?" Kayla asks.
Houkou grins.
"S-Sorry, I'm just worried about Virginia." she says, lying with something she thinks Captain Yattamori may say.
Bianca grins.
"Don't worry, she'll be back." Bianca says.
Houkou looks over at her, studying her.
Out of all of them, Bianca seems to be one of the weaker ones, besides Kayla. Her zanpakuto is named Aratatsuki, and has the power of dreams, mirrors, and illusions. She seems to have a bunch of weaknesses, and in essence, is weak, probably not that great at hand to hand combat, or even sword play. Out of the big five, she is the most quiet, and most reserved, though seems to be intelligent. She's pretty, as are the others, and out of all of them, has the coolest looking hairstyle. And, she wears a star pendant, as each wears one, the reason unknown to her.
"Thanks Bianca." Houkou says.
"Hey."
They all blink and turn around, Houkou's eyes widening some as she recognizes Toshiro Hitsugaya.
Her target.
"Oh, hey Toshiro." she says in Captain Yattamori's voice, the sound of it escaping her lips still a new feeling to her.
"Yattamori, what are you guys doing?" he asks, his deep teal eyes slightly questioning.
"Talking about Virginia." Kayla answers for her.
"Yeah, what are you doing here Toshiro?" Cree asks.
"Yattamori asked me to come over." he says, looking over at her, "So why am I here?"
Houkou grins as she stands.
"I'm taking you on a little field trip." Houkou says as she takes a hold of his wrist, walking towards the door.
He blinks in surprise.
"H-Huh?" he asks.
"Where are you taking him Mariya?" Bianca asks.
"It's a surprise." Houkou answers.
"Yattamori-" Toshiro starts.
Without warning, she flashsteps, cutting Toshiro off as she blasts past trees and other buildings of the Sereitei.
"M-Mariya!" Toshiro yells, irritated slightly by her actions,
"What?" she asks, "And why are you calling me Mariya?"
She knows enough to know that Toshiro doesn't call Captain Yattamori by her first name often.
"Cause I'm irritated!" he replies, "Where are you taking me?!"
"You'll see, stop being such a stick in the mud."
"I am not!"
She laughs, but her laughter is real, humored by this boy's stubbornness.
After a bit, they land in a field, surrounded by tall grasses. Toshiro blinks, taken by surprise as he looks around.
"Uh, I'm confused." he admits.
"I'm taking a breather! I need some fresh air!" Houkou says as she stretches her arms up to the sky, "I brought you with so you could get one too."
Toshiro blinks, then sighs.
"Yattamori, you're crazy." he comments.
She laughs.
...You haven't seen crazy yet, boy...
"Let's just relax for a bit, alright?" she says, "Just take in the surroundings."
After a moment, he grins, giving a chuckle. Her eyes flash wide for a second, before she turns away, a weird feeling growing in her chest.
...Whoa, what was that?...That was the same feeling I had from the night before...
"Yattamori?"
Houkou blinks.
"H-Huh?" she asks.
"You ok?" he asks, one of his silver eyebrows raised.
"Oh, yeah, I'm fine. Just trying to clear my mind." she replies.
He watches her for a moment, then sighs.
"Alright then." he says.
She grins, turning away again.
With a smirk, she reaches her hand to her back, grabbing the hilt of her dagger blade.
Now is the time, along and secluded, she'll kill him here, then return to the Master with some of his blood as she had asked, leaving his corpse here to be found later, or eaten by the animals of the woods. That's the simplest assassination she's ever done as a top assassin of the Bijuu. She takes a deep breath, and prepares herself, turning.
...Here I go-
"Surprise for you too."
Her eyes widen as Toshiro takes hold of her free hand, pulling her into him. She looses all concentration instantly, blushing as she looses her grip on the hilt of the weapon, using it to take a hold of his sleeve.
"T-Toshiro-" she stutters.
Without warning, she's lifted high off the ground, Toshiro know the one catching her off guard as he flashsteps.
W-What?!
She holds onto him tight, not wanting to fall out of his grip. Her attempt to hold on better causes Toshiro to chuckle, causing her cheeks to grow warmer, which irritates and confuses her at the same time.
"T-Toshiro!" she yells.
"See how it feels to be taken someplace without knowing?" he asks, "Now maybe you'll think before doing that again to me Yattamori."
She grumbles.
"You're mean." she comments.
"Call me what you will, but trust me when I say you'll like your surprise." Toshiro replies.
Soon, they come to land in a village, many of the villagers wide-eyed as they appear at random. Though, Houkou is surprised even more when some actually seem to run off at the sign of their presence.
Are Captain Yattamori and Hitsugaya not liked by the people here?
"Toshiro-" Houkou starts.
"Come on, it's this way." Toshiro interrupts, taking hold of her hand, pulling her away from the staring eyes.
She reddens again, not sure what to do other then take grip of his hand.
Again, she looks around, now noticing some groups beginning to whisper among themselves.
Using her Bijuu abilities, she zones in on a few.
"...Oh look, Miss Yattamori and Hitsugaya are here."
"...Wow, I heard she had come back from the dead, but I never thought it was true...And somehow that guy got to her again..."
"...Damn, Mariya has grown into a babe!...An apparently powerful one too...Toshiro doesn't deserve her as a friend, much less an acquaintance..."
"...Look at how he's holding her hand. I tell you, that girl has the worse taste in boys, going for that guy when she can do so much better..."
"...Mariya and Toshiro must be a couple by now...who knows what he did to blackmail her into a relationship..."
Houkou's brow furrows. All the conversations around them have one basic similarity. They think highly of her, but Toshiro is received with the same respect as a bug. Unwanted.
She looks over at Toshiro, seeing that he's probably ignoring the chatter among the breeze.
He is a lot like her. She has always been an outcast among the Bijuu. She's always voiced her optimistic opinions about peace, and for that many hate her, shun her, and have dubbed her an outsider from the forces. Only when she was called forward by the Master and given a title as a head Bijuu did she gain some respect. Though, that was little, considering she's still pushed around by all the others, and the underlings still see her as nothing but a useless mass of space.
She subconsciously walks faster so that she is beside him, before whispering in her ear.
"Hey, let's make 'em a bit sorry."
He blinks, looking over at her.
"What do you mean?" he asks.
"Just go along with what I do, alright?" she says, looking him in the eyes.
He stares at her for a long moment before he sighs, and gives a nod.
She grins.
"You'll thank me for this." she comments.
In the most graceful way, she takes her hand from his, and wraps it around his upper arm, pulling him closer to her as she laces her fingers of her other hand with his.
His expression is priceless, one of shock and just plan confusion as his cheeks redden.
"M-Mariya-" he stutters.
"Oh, c'mon. You said I could hang onto you once we got here." she says with a silly pout, "Don't be stingy, a boyfriend should be cute and go with the flow."
He reddens even more.
"B-Boyfriend?!" he stutters quietly.
Houkou turns her hearing back on.
"...What did she just call him?!"
"...I was just kidding when I said he was with her. You mean he was actually able to get her to be his Girlfriend?!.."
"...Mariya is with Toshiro?! How did he do that?!"
"...Y'know, now that I look at him, he isn't that bad..."
"...Maybe you should ask him out sometime..."
She grins. Her idea is working. It seems that everyone is so stunned by Toshiro getting Mariya that they're actually beginning to readjust their opinions so it can make more sense to them!
Toshiro leans over to whisper in her ear.
"Mariya, this is embarrassing." Toshiro comments.
"Toshiro, it's working." She replies, "They're all jealous of you...hmm, didn't know I was such a catch."
He sighs.
"Now, for a finishing touch." she comments.
"What?-" he starts.
His eyes grow wider then ever as she plants a kiss on his cheek, nuzzling him after she pulls away. Blush rises in her cheeks as well, hearing a few gasps escape some of the villagers' mouths. Toshiro has no idea what to do, too taken back by what she's doing to be able to react, stop her, or voice his opinion. Infact, in a way, it seems that the most natural thing for him to actually do is go along with it, moving his head with her`s as she nuzzles at his neck.
Finally, they come to a cute, closing the door behind them as they finally separate.
"Oh my God, that was great." Houkou laughs.
"Great? That was heart stopping!" Toshiro argues.
"In a good way right?" she asks.
"Hello?"
There eyes widen, and they turn, a smile appearing on Toshiro's face as he spots the old woman. Her eyes follow his, and a smile appears on her face as well. This must be Hitsugaya's Grandmother, the same woman that took Captain Yattamori in when she was a young child as her own. She was also one that encouraged the two to enter the Soul Reaper Academy.
"Hi Grandma." Toshiro says with a grin.
Her face lights up as she registers the two.
"Oh Toshiro, Mari!" she explains with joy, "I've missed you two!"
Toshiro responds by walking over to her so she doesn't have to get up, kneeling beside her. She reacts by throwing her arms around him, taking Toshiro by surprise. Though, he grins, and soon hugs her back. With that, she walks closer, coming to stand over the two.
Now would be a great time to take care of Hitsugaya. He's open, and it would be easy to get in a kill shot. Her hand even flinches for a moment as to take hold of her blade, wanting to finish her job now.
Though, she can't bring herself to do it.
"Oh, dear Mari, come here." Hitsugaya's Grandmother's asks, "Toshiro told me the joy of your return, but this is my first time I see you since then."
Houkou grins, kneeling beside Hitsugaya.
"Hello Granny." she says sweetly.
Her reply is to pull Houkou into a warm embrace, taking her by surprise. At first, she doesn't know what to do, not really ever having someone hug her like this. But, soon, she naturally wraps her arms around the woman, smiling.
"Oh, you sweet girl, I'm so glad your back, well, and safe." Granny says with a joyous tone.
Houkou's brow furrows for a slight instant, before she holds Granny tighter.
"I've missed you." she replies.
"I've missed you more, more dear Mariya."
Mariya...
She has missed Mariya, not her.
This hug, this happiness. It's not for her.
It's for Mariya.
Though, as this crosses her mind, she throws it away, just wanting to enjoy the great surprise Toshiro has given her, and trying her best to ease the mind of their old Granny, as she still holds her tight.
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