Hotori gasped in pain as the blows rained down upon her. His slap across her face made stars twinkle in her vision for a few seconds, and she blinked them away as quickly as possible, not willing to give up her fight now that she was sure Isamu was alive...that he would come for her. Despite the fact that she still struggled, she believed him when he said that speaking up again would be a mistake. That was fine with her, really. She didn't wish to waste any more breath talking to this snake in human form. He pushed her hard against the wall, and she hated the little involuntary grunt of pain she gave. She knew he'd enjoy such sounds from her, and she now wished to do whatever she could to deny him even the least bit of pleasure. He kissed her roughly, and she tried to bite him in return, but he had moved back too fast. She settled for glaring into his eyes, pouring as much silent contempt as she could though her gaze. He may take her, but she wouldn't go easily, and although she had faltered, she was not yet broken.

And then suddenly, Isamu was there, sword drawn on the foul man who had held her captive. She could have cried out in relief upon seeing him. He had made it. He had come to save her, just in time, and just as she knew he would. She couldn't explain how she'd known he wasn't dead, or how she'd known he was indeed coming to save her, but she just had.

Her muscles ached from the combination of being chained up at such a fierce angle and all the struggling she'd done to try and fight him off. She was sure her wrists and ankles were chaffed, if not raw, and she cold feel the dull stinging pain in them. She was also sure she had suffered many bruises from his rough treatment, and perhaps some shallow cuts from where he had cut off her clothing. And yet, all of these she could recover from. She would need time, once they were away from this horrible place, to make sense of all that had happened to her and sort out her feelings. But all of that was secondary in her mind as she watched Isamu battle his foe.

“You… monster… you wanted me… that is why you have done all this cruelty you scum… well, here I am now… I have come to spare an innocent life form your malicious poison and to make justice for the crimes you committed… you deserve no mercy… Have at thee!”

At that moment, as she listened to him speak, and heard the cold, dark fury in his tone, Hotori finally truly understood why he was called the Ice Knight. She had seen him in battle before, and always found it a fearsome sight, but there was something in the knowledge that this time...this anger was on her behalf. She wished to call out some form of encouragement to him, but knew that distracting him in this crucial battle could mean death for them both, so she bit her lip and silently prayed to all the deities she could think of, including Suzaku, that he would make quick work of their foe so they could put this horrid place behind them.

A draft blew through the room, and Hotori was reminded that she was completely exposed. It seemed like an odd thing to forget, but her mind had been bouncing from thing to thing, keeping up first with her struggle against this horrible man, and then watching Isamu's battle that she had somehow managed to forget, if only for a moment. She shivered in the cold, and felt embarrassed. It was bad enough that that monster had seen her body, and had touched her, but it was something different that Isamu would see her in this state. Still, she didn't dare to look away until their battle was complete. She'd hide her face in shame once she was sure Isamu was victorious. Even with her arms bound, she would be able to hide behind her hair when the time came, not wanting to see the expression on his face when he saw her.

But for now, she continued to watch the battle. She couldn't help the worry and the guilt that built up over time as she watched the two trade blows. She just couldn't shake the thought that this was all her fault. If she had done as Isamu had instructed, and gone to get him as soon as the man approached her, none of this would have happened. This man was a horrible person, and he obviously had some deep seeded grudge against Isamu. This was not going to be an easy battle, and...and if Isamu got hurt... "Isamu!" She called out his name even before she realized she had done it, and it took several more seconds to realize she'd left off the honorific. She'd done that once before since waking up in the dungeon, though she wan't sure why. She hoped, with that one word, he'd know she was alright, and offering him moral support. She also hoped it wouldn't distract him, as that had been why she'd been trying not to say anything in the first place.

~~~

Elsewhere, Haru was getting quite angry. He had received a note earlier stating that Isamu was taking Hotori to get a new dress. That was fine. Haru wouldn't begrudge her a little shopping if it helped to pass the time. But he had heard no more of them for hours, and was more than a little annoyed. He knew this village, it was his home, and he'd searched every nook and cranny, though he'd found no sign of either his Miko or his fellow Seishi. Isamu's horse was gone from the stables as well, and that didn't bode well to Haru. Had he been wrong to trust Hotori to Isamu's care? Had Isamu perhaps stolen her away? Could his motives be less than noble? If anything happened to Hotori, Haru would never forgive himself. He really did see the Miko as an adoptive little sister, despite his jokes with Sei that they were her parents. He cared for her, and wanted to keep her happy and safe. Perhaps he shouldn't have let her out of his sight.

He was pacing outside their inn, trying to think of the best course of action to find Hotori, when a small blackbird approached him with another note. He took it and thanked the bird, though he was unsure if the creature understood him, before reading it.

It was vague in details, and seemed to have been written in a rush, but it stated Hotori had been taken and Isamu was on their trail. It told of an inn that the others could meet them at. He knew that inn. It was a little ways away, but he knew he could get there. It would take some time for the others to get ready to move, and Haru couldn't shake the feeling that time was of the essence. He turned and headed back inside to talk to the others, already making plans. He would ride on ahead, and Sei would follow with the others as soon as they could be ready to go. It was a straight shot from there, so it should be easy for the others to find.

Once plans were made, and only a matter of moments after receiving the note, Haru set out on his horse. He was torn between worry for his Miko, his friend, and anger that she had obviously done something stupid to get herself into trouble. He also sent many silent prayers up to Suzaku that neither would be seriously hurt, though he had packed his full medical kit, just in case. He'd heal what he could, and make a salve of some sort for whatever he couldn't.

Isamu’s blade was pointing at Ahriman so he easily disengaged the parry and finding the right footing he took two quick steps forth and Ahriman lost his balance and fell on his back yet he shielded himself from Isamu's blow with the staff of his long axe. A dark light beamed in Ahriman’s eyes and he grinned, he could not believe it had been so easy to get Isamu to come. But then again he was always so lenient to the most unfortunate, was he not? He could not stand a poor and innocent soul be tortured the way he was doing with Hotori. And his anger was pure, however and unfortunately, Isamu was not the kind of man easily beaten when anger, no, he always collected himself and concentrated properly on the battle. So he would have to make use of every trick and defiant move he could think of. While on the ground a hand moved to pick a rock almost as big as his hand and he smirked. He kicked at Isamu who jumped back and got ready to slash again when Ahriman threw the rock as hard as he could aiming for Isamu’s head. The Willow seishi moved his head away fast enough to avoid the fatal blow, however, it still severed his sword shoulder and he placed his left hand on it as if to appease the pain. That dirty man! He would not win this fight even if he cheated. The Ice Knight was so enraged that the symbol in his forehead appeared and shone a bright red light and extending his hand he froze his opponent’s feet.

Ahriman grimaced and threw a couple of knives in Isamu's direction, he quickly rolled on the floor avoiding two and used his blade to parry the third. In the meantime the dark one fought to break free from the ice. Isamu made use of this advantage and punched his face and chest several times until the man finally fell to the ground and the ice broke. “Do not mess with me…” sneered Isamu. He was fed up with this person and he would not show mercy to someone who would taint an angel in order to achieve something that had no honour in it. As a kenjutsu warrior, the Willow seishi was loyal to the main principles of the martial arts, one being to fight fairly and avoid unnecessary slaughter. It was one of the reasons he never killed unless purely necessary and to preserve a pure life. the other reason was a promise he made himself that day, when he cried for the loss of his family, if he were to become a powerful Knight and kill others on cold blood then he would be no better than the men who raided his home. His eyes focused on the enemy, he studied his strengths and weaknesses and even his weapon of choice. He was trying to find the ‘gate’, in other words, the opening between both fighters in order to win the match. His legs studied the terrain and he took a quick glance around to ensure he made this place his fighting grounds. He lifted his blade and found his centre of gravity before Ahriman attacked him again this time with a deadly bow to Isamu’s neck.

He quickly ducked and sidestepped stabbing Ahriman on the back and kicking him in the process. The man hit the wall but almost as if he had been energised by that attack he turned around and elbowed Isamu who hit the wall harshly with his back. He swallowed a grunt and fell on one knee. He looked back at Ahriman with anger before he got up and watched him lick his own blood form his lips and grin. He swung his blade with one hand and aimed toward the opponent’s right flank while his legs then quickly moved back to parry the axe. Ahriman made use of that moment to take a knife and try to stab Isamu. He kicked him as far away as possible and rolled on his right side several times. The room was dark, neither rival could see one another. Ahriman was sure that Isamu had knocked his guards down, otherwise they would have come here already, it made him growl darkly as he moved in the shadows. He then stabbed his axe at some rocks causing part of the wall to fall in Isamu’s direction. It blew the Knight’s cover and he had to jump forth landing on his stomach and coughing a couple of times.

Ahriman smiled at him darkly, “Darling, the darkness will never be your ally…” Isamu smirked and still on the ground he rolled to his left avoiding the axe. He quickly rose to his feet and as Ahriman moved to disarm him he used his cloak to surround the menacing man and before he could react he had his blade pointing at Ahriman’s neck form behind him. “I have other allies…” muttered Isamu with hatred before he pulled Ahriman’s hair and said, “Now where are the keys to the chains…”

The man laughed darkly. “After all these years beau… and you still underestimate me?” He felt the man caress his thigh and dark memories came back to him like the sting of a wasp. He lost his temper and forced Ahriman on the wall and once he was on the floor he kicked him on the stomach and chest a couple of times, “Never… do that to me again, never…” his eyes were already like burning magma, and his aura was much more powerful than ever before. He had fought al these years to recover from Ahriman's ill doings, he would not fall prey to them again. It would be naive of him to do such a thing and he was determined to be done with this vermin once and for all… He watched him get up laughing and he lifted an eyebrow, had anything he said been funny?

The dark-eyed man grinned, “You will always be that young man in my eyes Isamu… that same…” He was cut short when Isamu grabbed him by the neck and picked him up screaming, “Enough!” He began to squeeze the man's neck and he could already hear him struggle for air. At this time Isamu had allowed his anger to take the better of him and Ahriman used this moment to try and cut his hand off with a knife. But Isamu’s reflexes were sharp and he dropped him that very moment. It was then Isamu began to paint, he did not know what had overcome him, probably the frustration he had bottled up inside for many years, no one knew -safe for himself- the pain he had endured. He felt weary and for a moment remembered the desolation that had once been his damnation. Oh yes, he had many times thought of giving up after being tortured in Kutou, but then, something kept him going, was it hope? No, it had been a dazzling young girl… And as if to emphasise that he heard a beautiful voice full of worry call out to him.

“Isamu!”

He gasped as if a rope had been handed to him so he could escape the darkness and his eyes met with lovely emerald abysses. He held his sword with even more determination and nodded at her. But what he did NOT know was that Ahriman had also heard the call and realising it had been an informal address, he was reassured there was something more between them that the typical miko-seishi relationship. That said he was still determined to end Isamu’s chance for happiness or comfort. And while they reassured each other he drew his axe and changed the side, to the one that was poisoned and then he quickly moved forth and aimed to stab Hotori’s chest, on the heart, so she would not last for more than a day if she was lucky.

However, Isamu’s seishi instincts overcame him and he ran forth as fast as he could and blocked the attack, but in doing so he left his right side open. He knew he would get a severe injury, yes, he was aware… But he would do this to save Hotori, to preserve her form any more suffering. Although, sadly he did not know that end of the axe was poisoned… Ahriman used this to his advantage and then quickly kicked Isamu to the wall and slashed at his side with all his anger. But, at that very moment, Isamu also attacked him, he twirled his blade and hit him hardly on the head with the pommel. Ahriman fell to the cold and damp floor and blacked out. Isamu then winced at his wound and fell on one knee. his vision was blurry for a moment, what was going on? Where was he? He looked around and then recognised that long beautiful greenish hair and her emerald eyes… “Hotori…” he whispered and regaining composure he reminded himself that he was her protector, he could not lose consciousness now… He bit his lower lip as he made a great effort to get up. He pulled Ahriman and chained him to a wall and took the keys form his pocket. He felt a bit shaky but he ignored that and walked toward Hotori, “I am so sorry…” he said softly.

He then began to remove the chains from her arms and legs and then he fell on his knees with a light grunt and a hand grasped at his wound. His eyes closed fiercely, yet they could still see beautiful emeralds looking at him. He gently placed a hand on her cheek, it was then he was aware that she was not wearing any clothing and though he blushed lightly, the sight of her wounds pierced his heart. Looking into her eyes he whispered, “It’s ok, do not be afraid or embarrassed…” Almost as if he waited for her to accept his aid he decided to ignore his own pain and began to tend to her wounds gently. No one would expect a man like him, a veteran of war, to have such gentle hands right? Well Isamu was the best example of this. And he ensured not to tie the bandages too harshly and to apply some creams he made for treating wounds and the like.

Hotori watched as much of the battle as she could in the darkness, and gasped each time that vile man injured Isamu. She could clearly see when their enemy started toward her with an axe, and she scrunched her eyes closed, waiting for the sure-fatal blow...that never came. She opened her eye, and saw that Isamu had moved between them and was, she was sure, seriously injured. She stared at him for a moment, shock on her face. Why would he do that? Yes, he was her Seishi, but didn't he realize she wouldn't want him to die for her?

"Hotori..."

She barely heard the whisper, but recognized it as the first time he had ever called her anything but 'Hotori-sama'. She felt her heart rate speed up slightly. What did this mean? Why had he called her by such an informal and intimate name? And why had she done the same addressing him? And then it was back to the battle, which ended quickly after that. She couldn't help but notice that, even after everything he had done, Isamu did not kill the man. Instead he knocked him out and chained him up. When isamu cam over to unchain her, she looked away, using her long hair to shield her face in shame.

“It’s ok, do not be afraid or embarrassed…”

His words were nice, but she still felt ashamed. She was naked, and she'd been kissed...touched...handled so roughly by that horrible man. How could she not feel embarrassed. She glanced briefly at Isamu's face, but looked away quickly again, still unwilling to see his reaction to her. It was obvious he hated that man...what if he hated her now too for being foolish enough to go with him and get herself in this situation? She used her arms and legs to curl up and cover as much of herself as she could without interfering with his tending her wounds.

"I am sorry...Isamu..." She said softly as he tended to her wounds. "You always seem to get hurt because of me." She felt tears begin to fall, and was glad she was looking away from Isamu. Perhaps that evil man had been right, and she was pathetic. "I shouldn't have trusted him...I should've come to get you like you told me to..."

She glanced through the fringe of her hair at him, trying to make out his injuries. "Are you badly hurt?" She asked, biting her lip in guilt once more. "I know some first aid...I can try to tend your injuries until we can find Haru-kun..." She shivered in the chilled wind, and glanced about for something to cover herself with. Her eyes landed on her own clothing, but there was nothing more than scraps piled up on the floor, not a single piece big enough to preserve any form of modesty. She thought briefly of taking something from the unconscious man, but she had no desire to get close enough to touch him, let alone remove an article of clothing so she could cover herself. Instead she dropped her chin to her chest and let her hair cover as much as possible.

((OOC: A little on the shorter side, but I hope it's okay. ^^))

Isamu was aware that he would lose energy sooner rather than later and they still had to ride to the Inn. The me would not be unconscious for long either, he had to finish tending to her wounds and then reach that tavern. Otherwise Haru would not find them and the Priestess would be in danger. He and to fight and survive for as long as it took to get Hotori back together with the other seishi. Until then he would have to fight the darkness, the weakness and the wound that was doing all it could to prevent him from reaching his objective. He could feel the sweat on his forehead already, this wound was bad. He knew… But he did not wish to worry Hotori about it. After all, she probably already felt terrible for what had happened and being as innocent as she was she would probably blame it all on her. But to be honest, both had part of the blame. not just one of them… But Isamu as her bodyguard felt the more responsible for this unfortunate event.

She was silent and he hoped this experience would not turn into something she would never recover from. For what he could see in the wound, he had hurt her and touched her and it sickened him. He guessed his objectives and he felt like getting up and killing him even if it challenged his own honour but… he had arrived before the worst came to pass. He was so relieved, he had heard of what happened to women and men after that, and he in a way knew how being close to such situation could be… he winced at the memories and then dismissed them as he kept on tending to her wounds. He could feel her skin cold and it would stir occasionally. And then she tried to cover herself and her beautiful long and green hair covered her almost completely. No, he would not let Hotori hide in shame and bottle these motions, she and to be the free nightingale he knew she truly was…

Once he had finished tending to her wounds he pulled her closer and gently with his other hand he lifted her chin for a moment, for their eyes to meet. He had noticed she had been avoiding his gaze all this time. Did she feel ashamed of her current situation having been manhandled by that vermin? Did she think he hated her because he had touched her? No, he could never hate her, if he disliked someone at this very moment, aside from the man responsible for all this then t was… himself. Yes, he could never forgive how he had been such a fool and did not look after Hotori as he should have. Haru would probably lose faith in him… all the seishi would and Hotori would never talk to him again. He deserved it though.

Yet…

He did not want her to have terrible memories of this place all her life, and so he decided to ensure she knew that he did not see her like a pathetic victim of a dark act such as rape. No, beauty could not be stripped off… As their eyes the stare, his hand slowly moved away from her chin and to her long and silken green hair, he gently moved it behind her shoulders and released her hands from the grip and lowered her legs form the apprehensive position of an ashamed person. In his eyes she was still the generous and innocent yet proud Hotori, and he would show her, in whichever way possible. He caressed her back gently and finally spoke, “Please, do not fret, do you not remember what I told you before?” He finally placed a hand on her cheek and added, “You must not be afraid, even now, my eyes can only see beauty in you, the beauty of a young woman.” He hoped she could believe his words for they came from the depths of his soul. He kissed her cheek and then removed his cloak and gently wrapped her body with it making sure she was covered with several layers of his cloak as much as possible. He did not want her catching a cold.

He then took a long piece of black cloth, a spare one he had and looking down at his wound he sighed, it was nasty indeed. He felt a bit dizzy but he bit his need to gasp in pain and tied the piece of cloth around his wound as a temporary tourniquet, once they reached the Inn he would then have it looked after… He winced as a new wave of pain reached his body and he closed his eyes. The only one who could bring him back to the present was Hotori, for she spoke once more. He tried to calm down and then heard her words.

“I am sorry…Isamu... You always seem to get hurt because of me… I shouldn't have trusted him...I should've come to get you like you told me to…”

His eyes opened widely and he looked away, “Hotori… you are so full of purity you fail to realise I failed you. I could not keep my word of protecting you, I did not find you soon enough… now look at the state the miko is in. This wouldn’t have happened if another seishi had been looking after you. I hope some day you can forgive me…”

“Are you badly hurt? I know some first aid...I can try to tend your injuries until we can find Haru-kun…”

He looked at the cold ground as he did his best to pick her up gently and not hurting her. He did not want her to worry too much about him. After all, watching her cry was already difficult for him, he gently wiped her tears away and then moved his arms around her and slowly began to pick her up as he said, “I will live…” at least until Haru find her… he hoped. But then as he tried to stand up another great wave of pain pulled at his wound as if a nerve had been pulled and he gasped in pain and fell on his knees once more, his face mere inches from Hotori’s and his vision was blurry once more. He took a deep breath to ignore this feeling, he needed to get her out and fast otherwise the men would wake up and they would be done for.

He held her close to him and whispered, “I’m here, I’ll take you to a nearby Inn where I asked Haru to meet us, you will be safe I promise…” He looked deeply into her eyes the intensity of his amber eyes still shone like a piercing knife. He slowly got up and ignored the pain with every step as he walked out of the maze and back to their horse. It would be even worse for his wound to ride on horseback but it could not be helped… He helped her atop the horse and then he winced as he sat behind her. Holding her tenderly toward him with one hand he led the horse at a walk with the other hand and he squeezed gently on the sides to indicate the horse he could start walk.

Hotori feared, for just a second, what she would see when Isamu raised her chin so that their eyes met. She felt a little of the tension leave her when she didn't find hatred or disgust in those amber eyes. As her emerald locked on to his amber, he gently pushed her hair back over her shoulder and then moved her arms and legs so that she wasn't hidden anymore. And yet, she didn't feel exposed and shameful as she had when that horrible man had uncovered her. His hand moved gently to her back, and at last he spoke, dispelling the last of her fears.

“Please, do not fret, do you not remember what I told you before? You must not be afraid, even now, my eyes can only see beauty in you, the beauty of a young woman.”

He kissed her cheek, and that one action meant more to her than his words could. Still looking into his eyes, she gave him a very small but sincere smile. He thought she was still beautiful. He had called her strong and determined in the past. He seemed to see all of these things in her that she could not yet see, and that made her want to be all of those things and more. Perhaps that would begin to make up for the foolishness she had shown earlier in the day. He removed his cloak, and wrapped her in it, and for that she was even more grateful. She could already feel the shivers starting to lessen. She then watched as he did his best to quickly tend his own wound. She could tell, through their bond as Miko and Seishi, that he was in more pain than he let on.

"I am sorry…Isamu... You always seem to get hurt because of me… I shouldn't have trusted him...I should've come to get you like you told me to…”

“Hotori… you are so full of purity you fail to realise I failed you. I could not keep my word of protecting you, I did not find you soon enough… now look at the state the miko is in. This wouldn’t have happened if another seishi had been looking after you. I hope some day you can forgive me…”

"Forgive you?" She repeated, honestly confused by this. Why should he need forgiving? "You didn't fail me. You saved me. You got injured to protect me." She slipped a hand out from the folds of the cloak to gently touch his cheek. "I'm a little shaken, sure, but I'm alive, and my injuries aren't that bad." She gave him another smile, this one a bit stronger than her last. "If you must hear me say it, then I've already forgiven you, as I hope you can forgive me."

He tried to pick her up, but stumbled the first time. She wanted to offer to walk on her own, but her legs still felt too sore and wobbly from the hours chained at such painful angles, and she was sure she wouldn't make it very far. He succeeded on the second try and told her that he had plans to take her to an inn where Haru was supposed to meet them. She hoped by the time they arrived she'd be able to walk on her own, as she feared she may have to help Isamu inside. Once they were on the horse, she slipped a hand free of the cloak once more, and gently gripped his shirt front. Partly, she was worried he may suddenly pass out and fall off or something of the like, but partly she felt better with the small contact.

"You said you would live..." She said softly after they had gone a short distance, and once she could no longer see the horrible place she'd been held captive. "Well, you'd better. I won't forgive you if you don't...and I won't forgive myself either." Her grip tightened just a little in his shirt front. "I think it would be best if I walk into the inn with you...people may talk if you carried me in, given my current state of dress..." Her tone was lighter than it had been. She was still worried about Isamu, but she didn't want him to know it, so she aimed to lighten their interactions just a little. She silently hoped Haru would arrive at the inn soon. She'd feel better knowing he could look after Isamu.

~~~

Haru was making good time, as he tended to do when traveling by himself. It was a bit like the days before he'd met Hotori and the other Seishi, when he would be sent for from surrounding villages to heal those who were sick and injured. Except this time he cared for those he'd most likely be healing. He was sure Isamu wouldn't have sent for him in such a manner if there wasn't a good chance that Hotori would be injured, and if Haru could take a guess, based on what he knew of his fellow Seishi, Isamu had most likely gotten himself injured rescuing her. He wondered what sort of mess his Miko had gotten herself into this time, but decided that he would wait and let her, or possibly Isamu, fill him in. He glanced up a the stars and shook his head, He had another hour's ride until he reached the inn, but the moon was clear, so he could see the road ahead. He took a deep breath to push aside his worries and urged his horse onward.

He noticed the smile that decorated her lips and nodded. He was glad that his humble words and gestures ensured she no longer felt ashamed, he knew she was in a difficult situation and being exposed to the eyes of others was no easy thing. However, she had to know she was beautiful inside and out, that this would pass and she would have to love herself so that others could do the same. He was a bit impressed that she seemed to accept him so easily, she had seemed terrified when his Nemesis had seen her, touched her, and yet, this seemed to be completely the opposite when it came to him. Of course, Isamu did not do this with malice nor aiming at taking anything away from her. Maybe that was where the differences lay. She trusted him and also accepted herself around him. He was so pleased that this would not make her have traumas in the future. He knew that scum had tried all at hand to destroy her, but it seemed to have only made her stronger. He was relieved. It seemed he had not failed at doing his task after all, right? He closed his eyes momentarily, trying to fight off the pain, he had to keep her safe, he had to hold on until Haru arrived at the Inn. He would most definitely take longer than them to get there. So he had to keep that in mind and just hold on, just fight on. He would not allow his body to give in to the pain and bloodless, he could already see the floor stained with all he had lost… Ahriman, he just would not give up would he? Why did he not strive to earn his people’s appreciation and respect instead of instilling fear wherever he went? Was it truly that fascinating to have everything done his way regardless of others? Was it that appealing to be so lonely? So loathed?

He was overjoyed when she smiled and allowed him to wrap her as eel as he could on his cloak. He could tell she was regaining some colour now and she was no longer shivering. He ensured to massage her arms and legs and rub them a bit to ensure she kept warm. He did not want her catching a cold or something of the sort. When he carried her he was as gentle as possible given the circumstances and he would stop at times to lean on something and regain strength. Looking down at her as he walked on he still would not understand why she seemed to willingly accept all he did and said, what made her warm up to the Ice Knight? What made her so sure he would not harm her? All these questions kept him active until they reached the horse. While getting ready he ensured no one was spying on them or tracing them down. He wanted to make sure nothing else would befall them. He feared he would be unable to protect her that much longer if anything happened, but once she was atop the horse he could jump off and trust his fury friend would take her all the way to the Inn if it came to that. Yes, he was a magnificent creature, they bonded almost instantly.

”Forgive you?”

So she was so angry at him she could not believe he was asking for forgiveness? He was ready to accept this and take the consequences for his slip, he knew he had failed her and only hoped that one day he would undo the harm he caused. And yet, her eyes were not angered but rather confused, and then he felt a warm and voce hand caress his cheek and opposed to what he would usually do when someone tried to touch him, he closed his eyes and leaned onto the touch. Something he blamed on the injury and his weakened state.

”I'm a little shaken, sure, but I'm alive, and my injuries aren't that bad… f you must hear me say it, then I've already forgiven you, as I hope you can forgive me.”

He sighed, “You are too kind, but… thank you.” He had to protect her, he could not fail her again. Even when he knew his energy would cease to give him strength. To be a bodyguard meant to sacrifice everything for that person you swore to protect, and he would do so if it came to that. The horse kept moving at a steady walk and he painted a couple of times, he could already feel his body giving in to the exhaustion but he could not let it be so. He fixed his amber eyes on the road ahead and ensured to hold Hotori as close as possible without injuring himself any further, almost like a zealous lover would when his loved one was in danger. Still feeling guilty of what had just happened, he did not want her to suffer any more, if he could help it. It had been hard enough to see her in such miserable situation inside that dungeon, how could anyone be so cruel? He sighed, it really should not surprise him, Ahriman was one of the cruelest persons he had ever had the displeasure to meet. And not only that, he had felt his malice himself, it was an experience he relived every night and wished he could forget completely…

Suddenly he felt light and his eyelids closed and he began to slowly move forth as if he were to pass out. Only dark thoughts resided in his mind and it was rather difficult to try and snap out of it. But lucky for him this would not last long… His mind stopped wandering off when he felt something and he looked down to be surprised by one of Hotori’s hands grasping his blue shirt’s front. He wondered why she had done such a thing, but he also considered the possibility that this could also be because she was still a bit afraid. He would not pull away in that case and would allow her to hold him if it made her feel better. But then she spoke again and this shocked him even more. Who was this person that could care so much for those around her? Suzaku really chose his mike carefully right? He could a lost feel fully awake by now, and he had only been scaring into her deep emerald eyes. Was the god looking down upon them and leading them to safety? Oh, how he hoped so! his miko needed to be kept safe after all.

“You said you would live… Well, you'd better. I won't forgive you if you don't...and I won't forgive myself either.”

He looked at her rather surprised, his amber eyes examining her as if looking for clues as for her reason to care so much. And when her gripped tightened on his shirt he knew she meant every word and he gasped slightly. No one had ever shown this much care for his safety ever since he had lost his family that night. Amidst his amazement he only managed to whisper, “Hotori…” He finally realised that all this time they had addressed each other by their actual names. Was she angry at this? She seemed not to mind and in a way it felt right to simply call her by her name. his eyes kept looking into her own for a moment and the hand that usually held the reins moved slowly toward her hand which still held his shirt front. his hand met hers and gently closed around it, his eyes never leaving hers as he did so. He felt warmth in his heart and he was rather surprised, what was this he sensed? Why did it feel so wonderful? He had closed all his emotions a very long time ago, what kind of power did Hotori have that she could break the ice and show him his true self? He had to be careful, he did not want to give in to these emotions, no, he had to keep focused and simply do his job…

"I think it would be best if I walk into the inn with you...people may talk if you carried me in, given my current state of dress…”

He considered her words, “If you can walk and if the swollen area is lessened then you might be able to walk… Due to your attire and my injury I doubt it would make that much difference to be honest.” He smiled though, wait… he was smiling? Well, he noticed she was trying to lighten their conversation. She must be worried about him. But then, his hand quickly let go of hers and moved back to the horse rains. The horse came to a halt and Isamu gasped and turned to listen behind them. Yes, he was right, there was no mistaking that powerful sound of approaching hooves. Ahriman, that poisonous scum had probably sent his men after them, he really did not want to let it go did he? He rolled his eyes and said, “He sent a party after us, hold on!” He held her more tight with his arms around her and he kicked the horse with his heels and it height before it began to go at a full gallop. He knew that this would make his wound much worse, in fact, if it had stopped bleeding when the horse moved at a slow pace, now he could already feel fresh blood tainting the cloth that covered it and he greeted his teeth and concentrated his eyes on the path ahead, ignoring the powerful and increasing pain. He did not look behind them, he simply wanted to lose them and reach the Inn, he had to keep Hotori safe whatever it takes!

As they rode on, Isamu’s hair shook violently, and since his confrontation with Ahriman, the long white ribbon that usually tied his long silken hair in a ponytail had been scratched severely. Therefore, as they rode on, once the ribbon got stuck on a tree branch during the gallop, his hair broke free form the bond and shook free and dark as the night. He took no notice of this, however, since he was too concentrated on finding a path, a cave or anything that could help them fool their pursuers.

He guided the horse into the thick forest and its galloped on on a man-made road for a moment before he turned right and it jumped on a log. He winced at the pain but kept on directing the horse in order to lose those that were after them. And finally, to their luck, and just as he was about to give in to the pain, they reached a bridge and he quickly led the horse underneath and ensured no one made a single sound. He held Hotori to his chest as if to comfort her and then heard the horses approaching. For a moment they hesitated and stopped in front of the bridge, trying to guess where they had disappeared to. Isamu closed his eyes and placed a hand on his wound that was still bleeding. After a moment, the riders decided to go on three different ways and see who would catch the fugitives first. He took a deep breath and after waiting there for a while longer, he silently followed the river, going opposite to all three of their pursuers, he moved the horse at a gallop once more, the water would kick at them as they followed the path of the stream before she finally turned left and after ten more minutes of a full gallop he stopped at the outskirts of an Inn. He leaned lightly on Hotori as he winced and placed a hand on his side wound. He would not last that much longer… he knew…

And probably she knew as well…

He quickly recovered, then he reached the stables and a stablehand took the horse once Isamu jumped off and helped Hotori to her feet. He took two packages and gave them to Hotori to carry for him and once they were close to the entrance he said, “Walk as close to me as you can and leave the taking to me.” Taking a deep breath he decided to do this one last effort to ensure Hotori got a room to rest while they waited. He opened the door and once she followed suit he let go of the door which closed instantly. There were all kinds of folk sitting by the fireplace but Isamu looked his old self, in fact, no one would believe he was injured if it wasn’t form the blood that dropped as he walked on. His eyes were back tot heir usual cold self and he spotted the Innkeeper and walked toward him. But then, one of the men spotted Hotori and was rather drunk by then. He slowly stood up and smirked towering over her. “Hey pretty… is that the only piece of clothing you are wearing?” His mates laughed with him and as his hand was about to take hold of the cloak that covered her, a hand quickly took hold of his and closed sharply on it causing several of his bones to crack. In shock and pain he fell back into his chair. Isamu’s burning amber eyes made him shiver lightly and say, “Oh… I’m… eh… sorry… we did not know she was yours… go on… go on…” Isamu kept his stare on the man while he placed a protective hand around Hotori’s shoulders and pulled her to him.

The men stared deeply at Isamu, their mouths dropped at such display of strength and as Isamu walked toward the Innkeeper he wondered at that sudden anger he had felt… Could it be… Well, honestly he also experienced that when he had found Ahriman about to taint the innocence of his miko. Was this because he had sworn to protect her or… was it something else? Jealousy? He frowned and then told the Innkeeper he needed two rooms, but the man said he could only offer them one for the time being. He sighed and only paid half the money in advance and he also stated they needed warm bath for Hotori and healing equipment. He paid some extra money for the man’s silence and the blood tainting the ground. At the mention of healing remedies though, one of the waitresses walked over. She was probably around twenty-five years old, with long braided red hair and deep blue eyes. Her skin was tanned and it was obvious she used it to lure men. She walked in a suggestive way toward Isamu and placing a hand on his cheek she said, “I will bring the remedies for you, I just need t gather them…” She bated her eyelashes at him and blowing him a kiss she left to get what she needed to tend to his wound.

Isamu kept his hold of Hotori as he took the key and walked up the stairs to the room. As he opened the door, “I am sorry that they did not have more than one room, I hope you do not mind… You sleep on the bed and recover your energy, I will protect you…” those last words showed more the pain he was in than anything he had said since he unchained Hotori in the dungeon. He led her inside and soon enough a maid arrived with a bathtub and filled it with salts, aromas, rose petals and warm water and lemon. Once the maid left placing a towel on the bed. He closed the door and slowly handed the towel to Hotori and looked into her eyes, but then realising he had given her two packages to carry he took them and placed them on the bed, one of them he opened and extended, “I got your dress, I thought you might like to wear it after you are clean…” And then suddenly he realised he was still looking into her eyes and then turned around so she could take a nice and relaxing bath. He pressed his hand on the wound to stop the bleeding though, hoping the healing equipment would be brought forth soon enough, he needed to tend to this wound as soon as possible.

Hotori's heart picked up it's pace when Isamu placed his hand over her's, and said her name so softly that it was barely a whisper. Just her name...just one simple word...it wasn't even a special name, not really, and yet she could've sworn all of Suzaku's fire shone within her, the warmth she felt when he said it. What gave him the power to make her feel this way, just from hearing her name cross his lips?

"I think it would be best if I walk into the inn with you...people may talk if you carried me in, given my current state of dress…”

“If you can walk and if the swollen area is lessened then you might be able to walk… Due to your attire and my injury I doubt it would make that much difference to be honest.”

She was about to point out that, in the shape he was in, she may have to carry him, but then she saw the smile that graced his lips. He looked so very different when he smiled, and she had the sudden realization that she'd like to see that smile more often. It was as if the person within, whom she had seen mere glimpses of over the last few days, was allowed to shine without, if only for a moment. Seeing him smile made her smile widen ever-so-slightly, and made her feel just a little more at ease. Sadly, that ease did not last for long...

“He sent a party after us, hold on!”

He didn't need to tell her twice. Hotori's grip tightened on his shirt, and she slipped her other hand free to grip the saddle and better stabilize herself as their horse picked up speed. Her heart rate matched galloping of the hooves, and she silently hoped they could escape their pursuers, as she knew she couldn't fight them, and was sure Isamu would not survive another battle in his current state. She could near the tiny noises of pain Isamu was making as they frantically galloped on, looking for a suitable hiding place. When at last they found a bridge to hide under, she knew silence was their friend. She moved her hand from the saddle to rest over her heart, trying to will it back into a normal beat. Other than that, however, she did not move or make a sound. She listened with bated breath as their pursuers approached, and feared for a moment a battle was inevitable. As they waited, Isamu silently pulled her closer to him, and Hotori rested her head against him, silently taking the comfort he offered, and willing him the strength he needed to hould out just a little longer. She knew he was in a great deal of pain, and feared he would not last until Haru reached them. After a very long moment, however, the men moved on, and after another pause, Isamu led them out of their hiding spot and urged them on along the river to the inn he'd decided they woudl stay at.

Once they arrived, she felt him lean lightly against her, if only for a moment, and that scared her far more than anything else. Not that she feared Isamu...far from that. She simply knew he would not have done so had he not been in far worse shape than he pretended. She decided that, once inside, she would tend his wounds. She wasn't as skilled as Haru, and had none of his healing magic, but she could clean and bandage them...stop the bleeding and hopefully stave off infection until Haru arrived. They reached the stables, and dismounted, and she was glad to see that her legs had recovered enough to support her weight. She accepted the two packages Isamu handed her to carry. She could tell they were both soft, but her worry for her Seishi kept her curiosity at bay. She didn't need to know what they were, only that Isamu wanted her to hold them until they reached their rooms. They went to the door, and Isamu paused long enough to give her a quick instruction.

“Walk as close to me as you can and leave the taking to me.”

She nodded in silent understanding and did as instructed. She followed as closely to him as she could, though she was surprised at the instant change that came over him, as soon as they were within sight of other people. He was acting like the same strong, cold man he had been when they first met, and had she not seen his injury herself, she would have hardly known he was hurt. Despite staying as close to him as she could, she was soon accosted by a drunk. She scarey had time to realize he intended to see what she had on under that cloak when she saw Isamu grab his hand with enough force to cause a snapping sound from the man's finders. The drunk stumbled back to his chair.

“Oh… I’m… eh… sorry… we did not know she was yours… go on… go on…”

Isamu pulled her protectively to his side and they moved on to address the innkeeper. His? What did the man mean she was 'his'? Her earlier attempt to lighten their conversation returned to her, and she realized that it must appear that they were a couple. She was sure Isamu's reaction was only because he wanted to spare her any further embarrassment, and not...jealously. Why would she even consider that could be the cause? He had no reason to feel jealous. They weren't a couple, after all. They were told there was only one room available, and she was secretly glad. She didn't want to be alone just now.

A red haired barmaid approached and placed a hand on Isamu's cheek. She bated her eyelashes and promised to bring up the healing supplies shortly, and Hotori felt a twinge of dislike for that woman almost instantly. How dare she touch Isamu so casually. And had she really blown him a kiss? Couldn't she tell he was injured, and now was hardly the time to be flirting. Her green eyes flashed at the woman's retreating back before she allowed Isamu to lead her up to their room. He'd had a bath ordered for her, and took the packages from her to reveal that one of them was the dress she had bought. It warmed her heart to know he had thought to bring it for her, and she was grateful to know that she would have some proper clothing to change into.

The maid arrived and prepared the bath. Once she had gone, Isamu handed her the towel and then turned away. She appreciated the fact that he wished to give her as much privacy as their shared room allowed, but she could also tell he was in a great deal of pain. She removed his cloak and laid it aside before climbing carefully into the bath. She removed her bandages, as none of her wounds were bleeding, and they would need proper cleaning anyway. Once she was settled into the water, she looked over at Isamu and spoke for the first time in what felt like ages. "I appreciate your attempt to offer me some privacy, but please settle down on the bed and try to conserve some of your energy. I know you're hurt, and besides..." She faltered, filling the silence with the sounds of washing up for just a moment before she finished. "Tou said I didn't have to hide from you, so I'm not..."

The warm bath felt nice, and soothed the last of the chill from her skin. It also helped to wash away the feeling of that man's hands on her skin. She wasn't sure she would ever admit this to anyone, but before she had angered him, it hadn't been so bad...and though she detested him, she couldn't help but think that, if he'd been someone different, someone she cared for-and had she not been chained up, of course-she could have actually enjoyed the attentions. This was not a train of thought she had ever entertained before, and it was a little surprising for her to realize that this desire existed deep within her...the desire to be touched in a loving manner by one she cared enough for to give her heart to. She glanced back at Isamu, and then looked away, busying herself with her bath to hide the faint blush. Why would she look at him while thinking such things? She finished washing up, and rose from the bathtub with the towel wrapped around her. She moved to the bed to get her dress, and was glad it was of rather simple make, as it allowed her to dress quickly. Not that she didn't mean what she'd said a moment ago, simply that she knew Haru or that barmaid coudl arrive at any time, and she wasn't ready to let anyone see more of her than they already had.

Once dressed, she turned to Isamu and crossed her arms. "Alright, take off your shirt." She said determinedly. She realized how that may sound, and blushed faintly, though she turned to pour up water from a pitcher into the small washbasin in the room before dipping a cloth in it. "You need to have those wounds cleaned before infection sets in, and I don't know when that-" Red headed flirt. "-woman will arrive with the remedies she promised." She lifted the ceramic basin and moved toward the bed. "I may not be a professional, but I can do something to help..."

Once he heeded her request, she would begin to clean the wounds, gently enough to keep them from beginning to bleed again. She hoped the woman would arrive shortly, as much as she didn't like her. Hotori realized she really didn't have any bandages or anything to use on Isamu's wounds.

While looking in the direction of the wall he placed a shaky hand on the wall to steady himself, he had to remain awake, to protect the miko. She had already gone through enough pain as it was. He pressed a hand on his wound, which was still bleeding and he mentally cursed his luck. He must look like a col in her eyes, what good was a bodyguard if they could not protect their charges? If they could get so badly wounded? Firstly he failed to watch over her, secondly he could not immediately find her when she was kidnapped and finally now, he could not tend to her needs because he was busy using his last ounces of energy on staying awake… alive to ensure she was all right until Haru found them. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath as another wave of pain shook his body, although the wound was grave he was not such why he felt so dizzy and as if his vision faded at times. Could this be? No, it could not be poison, he was simply a pathetic and weak man. He closed the hand on a fist and smashed it on the wall, why had he agreed to become a seishi when he did not truly have what it took? Haru was the leader, not him… he never let Hotori down, he was always there and he was strong and powerful, Isamu was the absolute opposite… he was hopeless. But then why did he accept? A pair of beautiful emerald eyes came into his mind, yes, he could not deny that, it had all been Hotori. It had not been something she did or said, it was just the way she was. Someone so pure and sweet had to be protected form the harshness of the world. His eyes opened once more and he heard noise sin the room, his cloak had been removed and Hotori was now inside the bath. but what she said next surprised him the most.

”I appreciate your attempt to offer me some privacy, but please settle down on the bed and try to conserve some of your energy. I know you're hurt, and besides… You said I didn't have to hide from you, so I'm not…”

His eyes opened widely in surprise and he gasped. Had his words truly had that effect on her? Had he truly… found a way into her heart so that she could trust him even at her most vulnerable situation? But he remembered back at the cave, yes, he would not deny what he had said for he meant every word. And so, after taking a deep breath he turned around and looked into her eyes. She was probably not aware of this but with each passing moment she was stronger, wiser and more beautiful. And it was probably wrong for anyone to praise an innocent lady but, while tending to her wounds Isamu was reassured that she was not only beautiful within but also without. There was surely no sin in admiring the innate beauty of a maiden right? Ot was the dark thoughts and desires that came with them what was wrong, and surely Suzaku would not damn him for admiring Hotori, even now, as she bathed, who in his eyes represented the epitome of al that was marvellous to behold. Yes, if he had not touched her delicate skin, right now he would be wondering what it felt like, for it looked pristine and powerful, the true Priestess of Suzaku, not even his enemy’s malice tainted her and he was relieved. He sat at the foot of the bed his hand was still pressed to his injury. He blinked for a moment as his vision defocused suddenly but he soon looked back at Hotori as she came out of her bath in an attempt to feel alive still. And she looked like a glorious star that had just been born. It was a pity she did not know how lovely she truly was. He looked away for a moment and felt as if his body were to lose all the energy it had left already.

She smiled at the dress and put it on. Isamu could not stop himself from staring in awe at how beautiful that dress even made her look. He felt a light blush on his cheeks but he ignored it while he stood up and walked toward her, moving a lock of beautiful wet green hair fro her face he whispered smoothly as his amber stars locked with her emeralds, “Beautiful…” The hand that had moved the lock of hair from her face was still trailing down the rest of her beautiful soft hair and then leaned down feeling as if his heart dictated that he kissed those lips tainted by his enemy and yet, halfway there he felt so much pain he leaned on the foot of the bed once more and pressed both hands on the wound, he saw a trail of blood across the floor and he was repulsed by this, a kenjutsu knight who always prided himself in fighting neatly and never tainting his garments now was tainting everything. He even forgot about the warm feeling in his heart at the sudden realisation that he had almost kissed Hotori. What would she think of him? She would probably take him for a madman, and he would deserve that, he was aware of his failure. He looked down, daring not to look into Hotori’s eyes. What was happening to him? But then her words shocked him and he looked up at her.

“Alright, take off your shirt… You need to have those wounds cleaned before infection sets in, and I don't know when that…woman will arrive with the remedies she promised." She lifted the ceramic basin and moved toward the bed. "I may not be a professional, but I can do something to help…”

He noticed the faint blush at her initial words and he was not sure why but he found that alluring and it even made him smile. Was she embarrassed by what those words could imply? Maybe… He decided he could not argue this one time, he was not strong enough to tend to his own wounds. And so, he removed his sword belt and propped it on the nearby wall, he then removed his other belt and placed it on the edge, along with his blue vest and shoulder-protecting-sleeves. This left his strong arms exposed, something he was usually not fond of, but for some reason he seemed able to lower his guard in Hotori’s company. But then, as he was about to remove his black sleeveless shirt a noise could be heard nearby and he gripped his sword in its sheathe. A knock was heard and Isamu welcomed whoever it was, he stood between Hotori and the stranger, but then he was relieved to see it was the waitress. He was expecting her to put everything on the table and leave but instead, she put everything on the table and stared at what Hotori was about to do and then moved to open the box and organise what was needed to tend to Isamu’s wounds.

While she did that she said, “You know sweetie, I cannot see what someone as experienced and handsome as him can see in you… you are but a child… seriously…” she leaned forward toward Hotori and whispered in her hear, “what do you have that you could offer, you probably don’t even have the body of a woman yet… you cannot even tend to wounds…” She smirked and then began to place strings in needles and organise everything while she eyed Isamu, she looked at him over and imagined just how fit and good-looking he had to be beneath this façade and his amber eyes caught her stare and he rolled them in disgust. This was not the first nor last time he felt someone look at him that way. She finally finished organising everything and approaching Isamu she slowly began to run her finger son the edge of his shirt, “Now, handsome, I need you to remove your shirt, least the wound dries and the clothes get stuck to the skin…” Isamu raised an eyebrow and was about to move her hands away when she suddenly leaned forth and without any warning she kissed him deeply and she would have knocked him into the bed had his back not been leaning on a pillar. And his back did hit the pillar at such unexpected event.

At this point, and while her hands moved again to his shirt, he was already beginning to feel rage within him. He was usually quite respectful of other person’s safety, especially women and the helpless. But now, this woman was crossing the line, not only because she assumed things he was not interested in but she also took advantage over an injured man. And to make matters worse, in her excitement when moving him to her left to force him into the bed, he moved away and accidentally her leg dug into the wound. His hands grasped the folds of the bed in pain. He moaned in pain and had he not been too injured and hadn’t lost that much blood he would have kicked her off him and shown her some decency… What was she playing at? Could she not see that this man was at the verge of life and death or was she so cold-hearted nothing would stop her lustful ways? He could not avoid thinking of Hotori for some reason… He had been angered by what he could hear the woman say but he did not now what else she could have whispered into her ear…

Hotori was a little surprised that Isamu took her up on her suggestion that he rest, after she stated that she wouldn't mind if he saw her. Although this was a vastly new experience for her, she didn't feel shamefully exposed as she had back in that dungeon. There was none of the darkness in his gaze she had seen in the other man's eyes. Once she was dressed, he approached her. She would have protested, but her gaze met his, and the words died on her tongue. He stroked her hair back, and called her beautiful, and suddenly she felt her heart soar. As he leaned in, just slightly, she realized that what she was feeling...what she had felt, probably longer than she realized, was love. She wanted to close the distance between them, to kiss him and show that she finally understood her own feelings, if not his own.

But before she could, he made a pained noise and moved back to the bed. She shook her head slightly. What was wrong with her? Now wasn't the time for such thoughts, not when he was injured. She told him to remove the clothing from the wounded areas so she could clean them, and was a little surprised when he began to do so without complaint. Perhaps he realized that she was right, and the wounds needed clenching. Before he could remove his shirt, however, there was a knock at the door, and Isamu moved between her and the door, sword at the ready, as the barmaid from downstairs entered and observed the scene before her. Hotori expected her to put the things down and leave, but instead she spoke.

“You know sweetie, I cannot see what someone as experienced and handsome as him can see in you… you are but a child… seriously…” she leaned forward toward Hotori and whispered in her ear, “what do you have that you could offer, you probably don’t even have the body of a woman yet… you cannot even tend to wounds…”

Hotori blushed faintly at her words. It was true, she wasn't as matured as this woman, but she was no child! Still, as much as it pained her to admit it, she didn't know how to stitch up wounds. The most she could do was clean them and apply a pressure bandage until Haru arrived. Begrudgingly, she stepped back and set the basin down, content to let this annoying woman tend Isamu's wounds, if that was what was best for him.

“Now, handsome, I need you to remove your shirt, least the wound dries and the clothes get stuck to the skin…”

Her words made Hotori's fists ball at her sides, but it was the actions she took next which really sent Hotori's temper into full blast. She kissed him. She actually leaned up and kissed him, as if that was at all appropriate given the situation. And as he tried to push her away, her knee hit his wounded side. It was bad enough that she seemed to be completely ignoring Hotori's presence in the room, and was treating Isamu like he was little more than a piece of meat offered to a hungry lioness, but she had caused him even more pain, and that was something Hotori would not stand for.

"Are you foolish, or just cruel?" She asked the barmaid, her anger evident. She gave a small growl as she strode the short distance to the pair. She seized the older woman by both of her arms and pulled her away from Isamu, giving her a small shove toward the door. "You dare speak of what I don't know? Ask what I can offer?" She said, arms crossed as she stood between this woman and Isamu. "I know enough not to maul an injured man just to satisfy my lust, and I can offer him the chance to be treated, and to recover in peace." Her hands came to rest on her hips in a defiant posture that dared this woman to argue or fight against her. "We have already sent for a healer, and he should be arriving at any moment. I can look after Isamu until then, so your services are neither needed nor desired. Please show yourself out so that I can see how much more damage your stupidity had caused."

Having just realized her feelings for Isamu, she could now realize she was jealous of this woman, but that was not why she said and did the things she did. It was, honestly and simply, that she could not believe the nerve of this woman. She may not have the knowledge this woman had of how to treat the wounds, but she knew that she would be able to make him infinitely more comfortable than she could. She strove only to ease his discomfort, not seek out new ways to heighten it. She squared her shoulders as she watched the woman. If she would not leave on her own, Hotori would have no qualms tossing her butt out the door herself if need be.

Hotori did not move away, she had not reacted to his words or movements. It was almost as if she also wanted to be kissed. No, this was probably the fever making him hallucinate, maybe she felt pity for him and did not want to hurt him. Knowing the heart the young woman possessed, it would not surprise him to be honest. But also, he did not want anyone’s pity, not really. He would ensure to be careful now then, he could not endanger the mission because he was being weak and allowing feelings and emotions resurface, once he recovered he would go back to his old self. How could he ever think that anyone would feel anything toward him strong enough to save him? Strong enough to make him finally wake up to the world of the living? He hoped Hotori had not gotten scared of his sudden slip. But it had felt so real, he had felt her move as well, surely this was not entirely his feverish thoughts, although, placing a hand on his forehead he realised he probably was feverish by now or had been so for a long time now. Could he even focus on the shadows, no, on the company around him? Could he see clearly anymore? He was also exhausted, his boy was simply giving in the blood loss at this point. The only force that kept him awake still was Hotori, she needed him, she had to be kept safe…

Kiki gave Hotori a triumphant glare when she did not reply to her insults. Oh yeah she had her where she wanted her now, she would not be interfering with her and this handsome knight who had entered into the tavern and dismissed a drunken man with a simple movement of his hand. He must be a strong and powerful man, and just the thought of having him in her bed made her too eager to realise that she was simply letting her lust control her. Not that she would have cared anyway, she was much too absorbed in herself and she knew what she wanted. When she wanted something, she would not stop until she got it… For now, the helpless pathetic girl backed off and left room for Kiki to do as she wished, which was why, as natural as it was for someone like her, she decided to go for it and take him now that she could. But she forgot that an injury could mean a person’s death and she would be thrown into a prison for muser fi she was not careful with what she did. But who could ever resist such a man?

Kiki could have almost sworn she saw defiance in Hotori’s eyes and rather… jealousy? So she loved this man? It was as she had thought back at the pub but… well… she might as well forget about him because he would be hers now, sooner or later she would have him.

“Are you foolish, or just cruel? You dare speak of what I don't know? Ask what I can offer? I know enough not to maul an injured man just to satisfy my lust, and I can offer him the chance to be treated, and to recover in peace… We have already sent for a healer, and he should be arriving at any moment. I can look after Isamu until then, so your services are neither needed nor desired. Please show yourself out so that I can see how much more damage your stupidity had caused.”

Kiki growled in anger and fixed her clothes and hair as if Hotori had injured her badly and said, “How dar you treat a lady like that! And what do you know of what I did, I am sure he was dying to be kissed like that, be someone like me, someone who could offer him what he needed… Sweetie, you are a child… I on the other hand, am a woman… There is a big difference there and this person here is a man, not a boy.” She smirked and then walked forth. If this girl was ready to stand in her way she had no problems in just showing her who was boss… A hand moved behind her to draw a knife, she would kill her now… And she would blame it on the man after she enjoyed him, saying it had been domestic violence, was she a genius or what? She grinned and kept walking forth.

Isamu had been rather shocked and impressed when Hotori shoved the waitress off him. He felt relief yet his wound was bleeding much more now. As his eyes finally managed to focus again, he saw the women arguing although he could not make up the words at the moment. He then slowly sat back and felt nauseous and about to throw up but he controlled the urge and finally became aware of his surroundings. Hotori was truly standing up to him, was she not? He smiled for a moment, he knew that she was strong and this was the best proof of it, was she not aware that she as challenging someone who might as well terrify anyone? In a way, had he not been in such a pitiful situation, Hotori might not have realised she and that inside her. And he slowly got up feeling slightly less dizzy but then, something about the way that woman approached Hotori made him raise an eyebrow. He still did not hear them talk but… the way she moved suggested that she would not give up on her mad attempts to destroy them. There was no other way to put really, that woman was almost as dangerous as his Nemesis…

And then, when her hand moved toward Hotori’s chest he realised she was holding a knife. There was no chance in hell he would let anything happen to Hotori while he could help it. He sprinted forth, “Hotori!” He moved between both ladies and quickly yanked Kiki’s hand which held the knife and the grasp and movement caused her to drop the knife. He then strode toward the door pulling her, anger flashing in his eyes and his seishi aura surrounded him, the Willow in his forehead shining bright. He then opened the door and sneered, “Never dare to get close to her again!” He then threw her out of the room which such force she hit the wall and fell to the floor and took a good couple of minutes to get up again.

Isamu turned to look at Hotori, relieved that she had been unharmed. He took a couple of steps toward her and then fell on his knees. Haru, where could he be? He placed both hands on his wound and then suddenly found himself coughing up blood. So this was it? He would die now? He fell on his back and for a moment his vision seemed to fade away. “Ho… Hotori…” his voice whispered, although even talking now was a true effort. His long dark hair was spread on the floor and the light of the moon shone upon them… “I’m sorry… I… could not protect you…” His hand aimlessly looked for hers and the sweat was beginning to make him lose consciousness at times. His other hand realised that his sword was nearby, at least, until he passed out, he could fight off whoever wanted to harm her.

“How dar you treat a lady like that! And what do you know of what I did, I am sure he was dying to be kissed like that, be someone like me, someone who could offer him what he needed… Sweetie, you are a child… I on the other hand, am a woman… There is a big difference there and this person here is a man, not a boy.”

"Only a truly desperate man would want to be touched in such a way by a slut like you." Hotori snapped angrily. The woman started toward her slowly, but Hotori stood her ground. Part of her realized her aunt would probably frown at the term she'd used for the woman, but the way Hotori saw it, if the shoe fit... "We've been to hell and back already today, and I'll be damned if I'll let you lay another finger on the man that I love." She was far too angry to realize what she had just confessed, and could only focus on standing between this woman and the injured Seishi. She was not a skilled combatant, but felt she could hold her own in a fair fight. She didn't even suspect that this woman would not know how to fight fairly. She didn't see the knife in her hand until she lunged at Hotor.

“Hotori!”

Hotori was surprised at how quickly Isamu moved to shield her and parry the knife. She watched, stunned, as he Dragged the woman to the door and threw her out with enough force to make Hotori wince in empathy.

“Never dare to get close to her again!”

Hotori couldn't stop the small swell of pride that she felt. He had, in the end, chosen her over that older woman, and that made her feel quite nice. She watched him close the door and take a few steps toward her. She then realized what she had said to that terrible woman, and opened her mouth to try and explain it away. The words died on her lips, however, when he suddenly dropped to his knees and began to cough up blood. She was at his side in an instant.

“Ho… Hotori… I’m sorry… I… could not protect you…”

She pulled his head into her lap and smoothed his hair back, stroking the long, soft, dark strands. Tears pricked at her eyes as she continued to try and soothe him. "It's alright, Isamu...you've been very brave. I could not ask for a better protector." She felt the tears begin to fall as she used her sleeve to wipe some of the sweat from his forehead. "Please...stay with me, Isamu. I still need my bodyguard. Haru-kun is close, I can sense him...please, just hold on a little longer." She sniffled, feeling as though her heart was breaking. "Please...stay with me...I need you..." Oh, if he died, she would never forgive Haru for being too late...

~~~

Haru couldn't shake the feeling that time was almost up, though he wasn't sure who's time, exactly. He reached the inn, and practically flew from the saddle, snatching his medical kit and barely looking at the stableboy before he headed into the inn. He ignored the drunks and waitresses and strode toward the man who was ovviously the innkeeper. "A green haired girl and a dark haired man. Where are they?"

The innkeeper stared, stunned for a moment, as if he thought it may be best not to answer. Another look at the determined gaze Haru fixed him with, however, made him relent and answer. "They showed up, maybe an hour ago. They got our last room."

"Which room?" Haru demanded.

The man told him, and Haru bolted for the stairs. Along the way he passed a very angry looking red haired woman, but he didn't have time for the problems of others. Hotori or Isamu, or maybe even both, were injured, and he was not about to lose either of them. He found the door and tested the knob, finding it unlocked, he pushed open the door and stepped in...

"Only a truly desperate man would want to be touched in such a way by a slut like you.”

Those words kept on ringing in Kiki’s mind and the ones that followed as she angrily made her way back to the main hall where more drunk customers awaited her. She would show that brat not to insult her and she could not believe that man’s audacity to throw her like that. She never allowed anyone to step on her that she knew and this little pathetic girl would not stand on her way that much longer, wherever she went, whatever she did, she would get her back for this humiliation and for inspiring that man to throw her away like garbage. In her eyes she had offended on one, done no wrong, of course, she did not see the fact that she had almost injured the girl as a crime. No, she was too twisted and manipulative for that. She would find a way and that girl would wish she had never crossed paths with her, she would see… She noticed a rather handsome young man pass her by in a hurry and she grinned, that would be her number two acquisition, but for now she would go earn some more money.

”We've been to hell and back already today, and I'll be damned if I'll let you lay another finger on the man that I love.”

Love. ‘What a vulgar concept’, thought Kiki. But then, as the weakened knight laid on the floor those words echoed heavily in his mind. Did she truly say that? No, it could not be, it was the fever, why would anyone especially someone as innocent and cheerful as Hotori fall for someone as cold and lifeless as him? Didn’t everyone cal him the Ice Knight? Yes, and his past made him the man he now was, someone incapable of making anyone happy, at least in that way. He did strive to please his protégées but, aside form that, he could never dream of having anyone appreciate him, befriend him, and love him. No, his mind was too used to being rejected to actually consider the possibility that anything like that might be possible at all.

Yet… his mind kept replaying that scene and he heard her words clearly. Why Hotori? Why did she fall in love with him? He had brought her misery, she suffered torture even at the hands of his worst enemy and now, now she said she loved him? He was not dreaming, no, the pain was too great he knew she was still alive. But, he would cherish her words, he would always remember her fondly even if he took his own feelings to the grave. He caught some more blood and was rather surprised that despite how terrible he must look now she would not feel disgusted, why, almost the whole room was filled with blood, all the blood that ensured his survival. And yet, the moment he felt, unable to stand on his two feet, she came to him, she sat beside him, he felt her place his head on her lap and he was convinced that as tender as she could be by nature, she only did this with the affections of a woman, that’s right a woman, in love. Isamu had never seen her like a mere child, in his eyes, she had always bee a woman.

He felt her fingers caress his long dark hair and he closed his eyes for a moment. He enjoyed the tender touch, it bright him back to those younger days when he was but a child and his mother caressed his hair to bring him comfort when he was sad or scared. But, he stopped being that way, he was now cold and distant, why did he allow her to touch him? Why did he even grant her hopes and even more importantly, why did he make his way into her innocent heart? Surely someone like him did not deserve love or happiness, he was tainted by such a dark past…

”Please...stay with me, Isamu. I still need my bodyguard. Haru-kun is close, I can sense him...please, just hold on a little longer…Please…stay with me...I need you…"

He loked up into her eyes for a moment before egis vision faded again, “Hotori…” he whispered her name and his hand gently reached hers, feeling the way she caressed his hair, dried the sweat from his forehead and cried? Cried? He said weakly… “Are you shedding tears… for me?” What an alien feeling and though he was not happy that she suffered he felt special, someone was actually crying for his pitiful state? He closed his eyes and brought her hand in his and moved it to his lips which kissed it. He did try fighting but he knew his body was giving in to darkness, he could not keep on fighting like this. time was running out…

All the words she said touched his heart and made him wish hew could cry, for he knew he was severely injured, he could not hold on for long yet he did not wish to die leaving the woman that had loved him just like that, he would at least ensure that she knew he would look for her in this world or the next. “Hotori… I will… always be with you… no matter what, I will find you wherever you go…” He was already feeling his energy wane and as he looked back up he was beginning to regain his vision if just for a moment realising his own feeling swede as deep as her own, “I… lo…” He heard the door open and he grasped his sword and pointed it toward the intruder.

It was then he made out the colour of the hair and the clothes… “Haru…” he whispered and dropped his sword and finally his hand let go of hers and fell on the wooden floor and his eyes closed. She would be safe now, with Haru, she did not need him… He could finally let go of this fight that had consumed all his energies…

“Are you shedding tears… for me?”

Hotori nodded, and the tears flowed more freely. She didn't know if he would like her crying for his sake, but at that every moment she was far too worried to care. If he survived, he could be mad at her later.

”Please...stay with me, Isamu. I still need my bodyguard. Haru-kun is close, I can sense him...please, just hold on a little longer…Please…stay with me...I need you…"

“Hotori… I will… always be with you… no matter what, I will find you wherever you go… I… lo…”

She looked up with a start as the door opened. Isamu found the strenght to raise his sword, but then seemed to realize it was Haru. That was when he seemed to lose consciousness at last. "No!" She gasped, her hand on his cheek. She looked up at the stunned healer in the doorway. "Haru-kun, please hurry...he...he's lost so much blood, and..."

"I know." Haru cut her off, but not in a cruel manner. He shoved the door shut behind him and dropped to his knees beside his fellow Seishi. His ability showed him every last injury Isamu had suffered. It also showed him that bloodloss was not his only problem. "He's been poisoned." He informed Hotori. "I can heal the wounds, and lessen the effects of the poison, but I need you to mix some herbs for me while I work." He tossed his small medical kit to his Miko and then nodded toward the medical supplies on the bedside table. "Go see if there are the means to grind some herbs in that kit."

Hotori nodded. She gently slipped her lap out from under his head. She stood and approached the supplied the horrid barmaid had brought up. While she was distracted, Haru pulled a knife from his belt and cut away Isamu's shirt to better access the major wound. He then placed both hands over the large, poisoned cut and began to focus his healing ability, the symbol for 'Chariot' began to glow on his palm as he poured his own energy into healing the wound.

"Yes, I found it." Hotori called. She picked up the grinding stone and turned back, waiting for his next instructions.

"Good, now look in my pack. Take one of each of the leaves and set to work grinding them into a paste." He wasn't quite sure what sort of poison it was, so he was going to apply his best cure-all. "You do know how to make a paste, don't you?"

"Of course I don't, but I'll figure it out." Hotori couldn't help but snap at the healer as she began to work. She figured it would be a bit like the tea ceremonies she'd taken part in as a child, where she learned to grind the tea...except she would want it thicker than tea. She set to work grinding the herbs and added just enough water to make a paste out of it. She was so nervous and her hands shook so that she nearly dropped it twice before she returned to Haru's side with the finished paste. Haru leaned over and sniffed of it, deeming it a decent salve for someone who'd never done it before. He reached up with one hand and took it from her.

"Great, Hotori-chan. Now go and get that washbasin." He nodded to where he could see it sitting. "I'll need to clean him up soon, so I can see what else needs doing..."

Hotori ran to get the basin and washcloths and returned once more, kneeling across from Haru on Isamu's other side. "Will he..." She sniffled. "Haru-kun, please tell me he'll be okay!"

Haru avoided her gaze, focusing on applying the salve inside the wound and then using his ability to heal it closed around the medicine. "I'll do everything I can, Hotori-chan." He promised gently. He glanced up at her, and couldn't help but notice that her eyes were glued to Isamu's face. "I'll look after your wounds in just a minute." He could sense she was injured as well, though Isamu was definitely the worst off.

"Don't worry about me." She said, still not looking up at him. "Mine are nothing, Just...just take care of I-Isamu-kun." She wasn't sure why, but she didn't want Haru to know how informal she and Isamu had been over the last hour or so. It felt like another little secret they could share, and she only wanted to be so bold for Isamu.

"What happened, Hotori?" Haru often dropped the honorific when addressing her, especially when discussing something serious. It felt different from when Isamu said her name. She didn't mind when Haru said her name like this, as it made her feel more like a peer and less like a child, but it was still a very differnt feeling.

"I was stupid, Haru-kun. A man approached me, and he was so polite, I trusted him." She dipped a cloth in the washbasin and began to wash Isamu's face so she wouldn't have to look at Haru who was still pouring energy into Isamu to help him heal and recover. She realized she couldn't bear to tell him the truth. "He tricked me, and kidnapped me. I think he planned to charge a ransom. I was chained up in a dungeon for a while before Isamu-kun found me. He fought the man and got hurt." She shrugged. "And here we are. Like I said, I was stupid."

Haru had a feeling she wasn't telling him everything, and indeed, if he hadn't known Hotori so well, he'd swear she was flat-out lying to him. Still, the healer Seishi figured she had good reason for hiding what secrets she did. He would find out the truth eventually, but it wasn't worth upsetting her further tonight. "Hand me the basin and washcloths. I've done all I can do for now." He nodded to the bed. "Find me something to cover him up with I don't think I can move him, even with your help."

Hotori handed over the basin as requested, and stood to find somthing to cover him with. Her eyes landed on his cloak, but it wouldn't be as warm as the blanket from the bed, so she pulled that off and carried it over, watchign as Haru cleaned as much blood from Isamu as he could before doing his best to wash his own hands and forearms. Once Haru made to get up, and moved the basin, she gently draped the blanket over him, looking down at his face for any sign of his recovery.

"I lessened the effects of the poison as much as I could, and the salve should help his body fight off the rest of it. I healed all the wounds and tried to counter the bloodloss, though it will take a few days to fully make up for it." Haru found the key to the room, and turned to lock the door, sealing the three of them inside as he spike. "Now it's up to him. If he's as much of a fighter as I think he is, he should pull through, but...if I was too late..."

"He's a fighter..." Hotori said with conviction.

Haru dropped into a sitting position on the floor, with his back against the bed. "Come here, Hotori-chan..." He said, holding a hand out to her. She looked down at Isamu for a moment before joining him. Haru gently gripped one of her wrists in his hand, and closed his eyes. "I may as well patch you up, while I'm using up energy." Hotori felt the familiar warm tingle of Haru's healing ability spread throughout her, causign every scrape and bruise and sore muscle to heal with amazing speed. "Sei better bring food with him..." Haru murmured, giving a yawn. "Lots of it." Once she was healed, he opened his eyes and looked at her. "Get soem sleep. I'll watch over him for a while."

Hotori stood, but instead of getting into the bed, she retrieved Isamu's cloak and wrapped it around herself before she moved back to Isamu's side. She carefully positioned herself so that her back was resting against the wall before she pulled his head into her lap once more. She stroked his hair just once before she felt the exhaustion of her day overtake her. Her head nestled against the wall, and one hand still in Isamu's hair, she drifted off to sleep.

((OOC: Nope, no one's in the bed. They may as well not have one. xD Hope the post was okay, and if Haru's healing ability doesnt' make complete sense, let me know and I'll try to clarify. ^^))

It was hard to tell where you were or what your purpose in a place was when you woke up startled and unsure of your whereabouts. But did he truly wake up? At least he still remembered who he was, where he had come from and the last face his eyes had seen before they closed-for what he thought would be the last time. Haru had arrived, and yet, his mind had been concentrating on Hotori before he could no longer fight unconsciousness. In a way he had decided he did not do anything to earn the title of seishi and now, the very moment his miko had needed him the most, well, he was in this pitiful state and could no longer look after her, what kind of a knight was he? He was hardly material for a girl’s every fantasy. No, he could not consider himself worthy of any respect at this stage and he was determined that Haru would take over the leadership of the group and would ignore him for as long as they lived. And he had every reason to do so. So why not give in to the tempting kiss of death herself and allow them to do their job without him? He would only hold them back anyway. He would become an impediment to their safety and goals. Besides, once it was all over, Hotori would go back to her own world, at least now he could close his eyes forever with a smile in his lips knowing such a wonderful young woman had shed tears for him, would miss him and had loved him. At least he could now dream… He realised that at this point Hotori was his dream…

Seriously, why try to even stir? He knew he was not in the world of the living but he was not dead either right? He could still feel very much alive although just. Perhaps it was up to him to keep on fighting and overcome this wound or simply give in and perish. But what would await him in that world if he woke up? A sweet young woman who loved him, but he would lose her in the end, would he not? Would she forget all about him, all they had gone through when she returned? They were of two different worlds, love could not overcome that.

Or could it?

Isamu felt as if he were in an unknown realm, one he could not recognise and it was dark and cold. Had he finally removed all emotions form within and remained empty and as cold as his well-known name? No, that was not it, if it were he would be awake and though he would feel lonely and empty beneath his strong façade, that would be nothing like this uncertainty, this loneliness. No one was there, just him… And he was chained to a wall? This could not be! He was in that dungeon again, it seemed his enemy finally found him again, but at least he was on his own, they did not get to Hotori and for that he was glad. Had he not met her back then, he would have only concentrate din his desire t be free and flee form his enemy’s clutches but now, even in this ark dungeon hope assured him that the beautiful lady was away from harm’s grasp, that’s right, she had Haru and Sei to look after her, they would be a great team and surely they could find another Willow knight for her, one that could fight all her battles and leave her unscarred, unlike him. He still felt a deep pain for all the times he failed to spare her any suffering and pain. Would she ever forgive this kenjutsu knight that had failed to follow his own rules and ended up injuring himself badly? Why, he did not even consider the possibility that had he not been busy none of this would have ever happened?

And yet… the confession…

Yes, if this had not happened would Hotori have said what she did? His heart felt warm and at peace, he also had feelings for her, he realised. He was only sad he had no time to tell her. Wait… time? He was dead then? Not quite, for he would not be bonded to the cares of the world he still have. It was probably these feelings that kept him hanging there. That kept him fighting to survive. Looking around he sighed, even if he tried how would he break free? Well, for one, he knew that if he were to return he would protect her more zealously and he would be a true knight for her. He would ensure that every step she took, he would be there, looking after her, protecting her and guiding her. And a chain opened and his right leg was free but he was unaware of this. For he also knew that he would strive to make her happy, although he did this for every other protégée, she was even more important in his heart, so he had to show that by making her truly happy. If anyone in this world deserved that, it was Hotori…. Hotori…

Another chain opened on his left leg, and yet he lepton thinking about this girl he loved so ardently. Hotori, if he awoke now he would also strive to ensure she had not the blame in this, both were to blame, and even so, it was the purity of her heart and goodwill that made her an easy victim to the cruel persons in this world. He would guard those traits in her, keep her the Hotori he knew, the Hotori he loved… And surely her seishi could help on that matter, he did not want to take her away form her family in this world, no, he wanted the seishi to work together and keep her safe… keep her. Another chain let go of his right wrist and he finally realised that his last wish was to love her.

Yes, he was aware of her destiny as the Suzaku no Miko, but his heart had a decree of his own and he knew that in this world or the next, he would keep on looking for her and trying to be with her. Perhaps for now, he would just show these things indirectly, but, for her wellbeing and that of the seishi he rather not tell her openly. What if she had simply said she loved him to keep him from dying? What if she had said so simply to keep the barmaid at bay? No, love existed but, at this moment he was too confused but, they might have to wait a bit right? Surely the other saishi would freak out and think him a pervert for wooing such a young woman, but he sighed, what was age for love? Love had no boundaries and he knew that no matter what anyone said he would still love her so… was it truly that important to think on whoever could object to their affections? Not really…

The last chain gave in and he realised he was free, how had that happened? And a gentle voice, it kept calling his name, it was soothing and worried, Hotori? Did she truly care so much about him? He began running through the darkness, following her voice and not afraid at all, he did not know how long he had been in the darkness, fighting, running, looking for her, but he could not lose hope, that was one thing he had to preserve. And he would gladly do so to keep his miko safe… he loved her…

It had taken him several days, his body was covered in sweat. He knew he had been fighting something terrible, not only a wound but also poison, both had drained the energies of a powerful seishi, someone who could not even use his ice magic to keep the wound from bleeding him to death. How long had he teen fighting? He felt very weak, but he knew that Haru had arrived in the nick of time and tended to his wounds. He could not see him at that very moment, maybe he went to get more supplies to look after his wounds? However, his had felt in a comfortable place, and he remembered when Hotori had placed his head on her lap and he blushed lightly, but he closed his eyes for a moment, he was feeling her soft hand caress his long dark hair, did she know how she made him feel?

A hand moved weakly to take hers, and he managed to whisper pound enough for her to hear, “Hotori…” his eyes opened and he sought to look at her beautiful face, but first, he wanted to let her know he appreciated her looking after him… “Thank you…” his voice had finally returned to him but it was soar and he knew he desperately needed some water. He closed his eyes for a moment before he said, “That package on the bed… its for you…” it was an indication for her to get up and go and fetch the package and then come sit back next to him and open it. He wanted to see her reaction, besides, he wanted to test the waters and see how much he could move already. As he tried to sit back the injury resurface and he winced and moved back to lay still, he frowned, this injury would prove to be rather annoying. “How long… have I been unconscious?”

He did not want to ruin the moment though and he waited for her to sit back next to him and open the package, while waiting for her to do so he said weakly, “that night you told me you missed your home… in your sleep you said something… I assumed you missed yours and I got you one for the time you stay here, I hope you will like it…” His eyes softened if for a moment, and his heart felt true joy… He knew she would love this, or so he wanted t believe…

It had been four days since Isamu had lost consciousness. In that time, Sei and Shouri had arrived, and gotten two more rooms near the one Isamu was in. Haru had tried to get Hotori to stay in the room with Shouri, but gave up after she refused to leave the injured Seishi's side until he woke up. She was sure that the others worried about her, and Shouri had given her a knowing look a time or two, but she answered very few of their questions, stating only that she blamed herself for his current condition, and wished to make sure he pulled through. Haru had done several healing sessions with the various wounds Isamu received, but he said that the poison had slowed the progress of recovery. Haru was able to make progress, but it took a lot of enenrgy out of him, and it would take him time to recover it before he could try again.

Just now, Haru was downstairs getting food to bring up to Hotori. Sei was most likely standing guard in the hallway, wishing to give her the privacy she wanted to watch over Isamu, and Shouri had commented that she was going to the market to get some things she thought Hotori might like or need. So for now, the Miko was alone with the Seihi she loved, and sat near him, stroking his hair as she had become fond of doing when they were alone. She would talk to him, or sing to him, unsure if he could hear her, but wanting to somehow let him know he was not alone. She closed her eyes for a moment, and just sat, quietly, with her thoughts. She felt a twitch of movement, but didn't stir, as Haru had told her that would be common as he fought the poison. She did move, however, when a hand gently closed over her's. Her eyes shot open and she leaned over to look into his face just as he spoke.

"Hotori...thank you..."

She couldn't help the beaming smile that crossed her lips. "Isamu! You came back to me..." She felt tears prick her eyes once more, though this time they were tears of happiness. "I knew you would..." His voice sounded dry from lack of use, and she knew he probably wanted some water. She was just about to get up and go get him some water when he spoke again.

“That package on the bed… its for you…”

She gave his hand a soft squeeze before releasing it and rising to her feet. The others had questioned the package, but she had told them it was Isamu's and no one would open it without his permission. Her heart swelled at the thought that, whatever it was, it was a gift for her. She picked up the package and tucked it under her arm before crossing to the water pitcher. She filled a clay cup with water and then returned to his side with both water and package.

“How long… have I been unconscious?”

"Four days..." She answered. She set the package aside for just a moment so she could hold the water up to his lips. "Haru-kun has been working to heal your wound, but he said the poison slowed the effect his power could have. He said that, once you woke up, he'd probably only have to do one more healing session and you'd be as good as new." Only once he was through drinking did she set the cup aside and pick up the package. She opened it carefully, already sure she would treasure whatever it was, because Isamu had given it to her.

“that night you told me you missed your home… in your sleep you said something… I assumed you missed yours and I got you one for the time you stay here, I hope you will like it…”

It was a teddy bear, and looked a lot like the one her parents had given her all those years ago, only smaller. "Iamu...thank you..." She felt a smile spread across her lips as she hugged the bear to her chest. "I..I love it. I'll treasure it forever..." It was such a sweet and thoughtful gift, and she decided then and there that once she returned home, she would somehow take this with her. It might be the only keepsake of her time with Isamu that she'd have in her own world.

And yet...a bear was a gift for a child. Did this mean that the barmaid was right, and to Isamu she was nothing more than a child? He had called her a woman, had been the only one of her seishi to use that word when referring to her, but perhaps that had just been his attempt to make her feel better. Perhaps this showed that he thought she was still quite childish. Yes, she would treasure the bear with all of her heart, but she would also strive to be more womanly.

As she sat there beside him, she clutched the bear with one arm and offered him more water, deciding that she needed to tell him something while it was just the two of them. She was worried she would make him mad, as she knew that he valued honesty and honor, and she hoped he would forgive what she had to tell him. "Isamu...I didn't tell the others the truth about...about what happened. I said that he kidnapped me and was holding me for ransom when you arrived. I didn't want to worry them with the details." She bit her lip and looked across the small room. "But I'll tell them the truth if you wish. It's not right for me to ask you to lie for me...not after everything else you have done for me."

"Also..." She felt that while she was confessing, she would tell him one more thing. Not her feelings...those would have to wait until she felt she'd earned the right to love him, proven she could be just as mature and lovely as the other women she'd seen eye him...though hopefully less foolish than that barmaid. No, this also had to do with the night that she was captured by their now-common foe. "That night he took me...when I woke up, he told me that he'd killed you. I'm sad to say I believed him for a moment. I almost gave in, believing that no one would be coming to save me..." She dared a glance at him before wrapping both arms around the bear once more. "Then I felt...I'm not sure what it was...but I knew he had lied, and that you were coming for me." Both eyes drifted closed as she remembered, and despite herself a small smile toyed at the corner of her lips. "Once I knew you were coming, I knew I could not give in and let him win, so I fought as much as I could. I headbutted him and bit at him and did all I could think to hold him off until you arrived." The smile faded. "He was quite angry about that...so you could say most of my injuries were my own fault..." Her eyes opened once more, and she glanced at him before looking down at the bear. "I don't know why...but I just felt like you should know that..."

She shook her head slightly, and her smile returned as she shifted to face him more fully. "Would you like to try and sit up? I'm sure I can help you if we're both careful..."