“Hotori, you never seem to mind… you are always here, always loyal to your seishi even when at times we fail.”

Isamu leaned in, and Hotori's heart nearly stopped for just a moment. Was he going to kiss her? She really hoped he would...but instead, he kissed her forehead. It, like the kisses to her cheek and hand, felt nice, and made her feel quite close to the man she loved...but it wasn't the sort of gesture she'd hoped for. After all, Haru and Sei did many of the same things, and they saw themselves as her brothers. Could it really be that was all she was to Isamu as well? She smiled up at him, and answered his comment honestly. "Where else would I be? I am alive and safe and happy, so I have seen no failure, Isamu. None at all."

She smiled when he summoned the hawk, and could only guess it had been sent to retrieve her bow and arrows. "I wonder what Haru-kun and the others will make of that..." She said with a giggle as she cheerfully followed him. She wondered where they were going, but all of the surroundings were so lovely, she didn't mind the walk. She gladly-eagerly, even-accepted his hand on the slippery pebbles and found solid footing before looking around at where they now stood. It was lovely, with a waterfall and stream. The hawk returned and dropped her weapon into Isamu's hand.

"That is your target Hotori."

Isamu pointed at the rock, and she nodded, understanding. It was further away than the targets she'd used when practicing with Sei and Haru, and she had never tried shooting through water before. She smiled at the challenge it presented. "This should be fun." She said with a wide smile as she readied herself. She put the quiver on across her back to easily reach her arrows and took the stance she had learned in class. She took a deep breath and held it for a moment, closing her eyes and listening to the sounds around her. Part of her was nervous. She didn't want to look bad in front of a well trained fighter like Isamu. He did not talk about his training, but it was obvious in the way he moved with his weapons that he was skilled in many forms of combat. What if she was far worse than he expected? Would he laugh at her? Would he tell her to leave the weapons to those who could handle them? No...neither of those sounded like Isamu. She released the breath slowly and opened her eyes, calling on the same determination she'd felt when she'd first learned archery in school, and again when she had practiced with Haru and Sei.

Now ready, she took aim, and released her first arrow. She watched with bated breath as it flew through the air, but she was disappointed as it fell short of her target. "Shoot..." She said softly, biting her lip as she frowned at the arrow. She was sure she'd been properly anchored and had aimed right. "Guess I need more practice than I thought..." She drew another arrow from the quiver and tried again. She hoped Isamu was a patient tutor, as she didn't want him to get frustrated with her attempts.

~~~

Back at the camp, Haru was enjoying the peaceful surroundings, and a few moments alone with Sei. Sei had been worried about how long Hotori had been gone, but Haru could sense Isamu was fighting through this newest poison, and was sure Hotori would not leave his side until he was better. Haru assumed they'd be staying the night there, so he'd started setting up camp for the group. He'd just taken Hotori's bow and quiver and set them aside for use hunting later, if needed, when a light colored hawk swooped down, snatched both up, and took off once more. "Well..." Haru said with a raised eyebrow as he watched the bird fly off once more. "Either the animals are mounting an armed counterattack after all these years of hunting..." He grinned at his own little joke. "Or Isamu's decided to help Hotori work on her aim..." He recalled the time they had practiced with stuffed dummies back when Hotori first got her weapon. "Hopefully I won't have to remove an arrow from anyone's knee..."

"Where else would I be? I am alive and safe and happy, so I have seen no failure, Isamu. None at all.”

She was being earnest as she spoke but she and no idea the effect these words had on someone who solely worked to protect lives. The idea of making his protégées happy as well was something he decided upon due to how much he suffered and how emphatic he was to the troubles of others. His react to the hardships of his own life had not been quite as what others would expect. On the contrary, it had warned him of the many innocent persons who needed his aid and as a General he could not reach out to him, but now, as a bodyguard he could and he did not have to swear loyalty to any Emperor or Empress, especially when at times the commands given could be cruel and merciless. He had seen it for many years and he was not about to ignore his true tendencies to preserve life. In all his years alive in this world, he had only considered Ashiram undeserving to live but that was because of the things he did, the things he forced others to do. He took a deep breath and exhaled, he learned long ago to appreciate the small things in life, to try and enjoy his solitude and avoid feeling the despair that captured the minds of many. So long as he concentrated on his job at hand, he would be happy… he would be safe.

“I wonder what Haru-kun and the others will make of that…”

He stopped walking looking at the blue ski and smiled briefly. Yes, he also wondered although he could guess. It was strange but he had grown fond of the group he travelled with and that was not a common thing. They all loved Hotori and served her happily, but not only that, they also behaved like good friends, old acquaintances or a family. He had been on his own for so long that he had almost forgotten completely what it was like to have a family. He sighed and kept on walking, “He will probably make a remark once we go back.” Haru was, after all the second in command. He smirked.

Once they arrived, Isamu allowed Hotori as much time as she liked to explore her surroundings. He watched her closely, he wanted to examine everything she did before she shot an arrow, how she examined the terrain, if she did, how she concentrated and if she exhaled a deep breath to relax. Every little gesture made a difference, he smiled inwardly, for a moment almost he felt back at the castle of Konan, back at the barracks teaching archers how to work on the footing and how to let go of the arrow. His eyes looked back at her, she seemed… nervous.

“This should be fun.”

He nodded. He was glad she saw it as a challenge to be enjoyed. But she was so concentrated on pleasing him she did not focus on the task at hand and the first arrow failed its mark. He smiled and stood behind her and he gently moved the foot form the arm that held the bow a bit forth so she stood with the legs a bit more separate form each other and forming an angle. He then helped her hold the bow with one hand as he whispered, “Shooting through a waterfall is hard, you need precision but you also need the peer for the arrow to pierce through the water as it would through armour.” His other hand touched hers, the one puling at the string with the arrow and he kept on talking, “When pulling the arrow back take a deep breath and allow your chest to line in with the string, then it will simply be a gentle and quick motion of letting the arrow go. Depending on how strong you wish the arrow to pierce, you need to pull the string a bit more or less…” He helped her pull the arrow and then added, “As you shoot, release the breath and ensure to keep both eyes open.” It could be said he was a rather patient person when it came to teaching, he had done this for years, and surely he would be even more loving and patient when teaching the woman he loved.

“Guess I need more practice than I thought…”

“Everything comes with practice…” He let go of her arm and allowed her to let go of the arrow and it moved fast, much faster than the precious one she had shot and it moved through the waterfall and pierced through the target. He smiled quite proud of her, and he hoped this helped motivate her, he then added, “Do not worry about the arrows, I will recover them after you practice.” He had a feeling she and been taught before though, she seemed to have a good technique. Maybe Haru and Sei had taught her some, although the image of Haru teaching Hotori something of the sort was rather amusing to say the least.

He watched her practice and whenever it was needed he would make a remark or two or would correct her posture. He never laughed at her though nor did he show any signs of being displeased, a good instructor always knew how to teach and humiliating the students never worked. He would also praise her when she did something correctly, it helped keep the motivation at its peak. After a couple of hours he offered her some water and smiled at her, “I believe you should rest now Hotori, you have done well but you must also save up some energy for the rest of the journey.” He gently moved a hand and placed a beautiful blue flower on her hair, “Let us go and see what the others are doing.” He then nodded at her and offered her his hand to cross the river back and then guided her through the thick forest back to the grotto where their horses were grazing. He saw Sei and Haru and nodded at them. It was getting dark already, he did not want them to worry about Hotori even if they knew she was with him.

He stretched his arms for a moment and then moving toward Haru he said, “I can make dinner once I get back, I will go to a nearby warm spring, it is not too far away from here so if you need me call.” It was not far at all, but he deemed he had to let Haru know where it was in case he wanted to go there once Isamu was done. “Once you reach that hill go down the path, enter a meadow, it is easy to find once there.” He did not want to look like the typical leader who left others do to his job and so he decided that once he returned from the springs he would take the first watch so that Sei and Haru could also enjoy some time on their own, he knew they seldom got to relax whenever they travelled so perhaps they would both enjoy the springs. He nodded at them and then turning to Hotori he simply said, “I will be back.” He smiled at her briefly to ensure she knew nothing was the matter but he did not deem it necessary to specify where he was going. He turned his back on her and then walked away, toward the hot springs. Once there he ensured no one was nearby, the last thing he wanted was for a thief or a wandered to surprise him.

Finally he removed his belts and boots and gloves placing them next to a rock, hidden, in case someone came toward him and he could draw them if necessary. He then removed his sleeves and the cloak. And finally he took off his vest and shirt, he was in no hurry honestly and since he did not expect anyone to find this place since it was an abandoned road that no one used except for him, he did not see any need to worry about being spotted. As he turned to face the spring, a silver scar could be seen on his side, it moved along his torso, his hand touched it gently, but he decided he would not let these memories haunt his one moment of relaxation.

He removed his last bits of clothing before he entered the hot springs and he removed the ribbon in his hair once he was inside and he placed it aside gently, the only thing he did not remove was the necklace with the amber stone. It was the one thing his beloved had ever given him, so it was far too precious for him to lose it. He submerged completely and then as the moonlight touched the water, resurfaced again only mid body before settling back into the water, the light of the pale moon caressing his hair and his amber eyes before he relaxed and sighed enjoying the warmth of the water and he could tell his wounds were all better now and the poison had finally left his body. He lightly closed his eyes before focusing his sight once more on the night sky which was slowly being decorated by glittering stars.

Hotori listened to Isamu's words, following his instruction and allowing herself to be repositioned as needed before firing her second arrow. When it hit the mark, she couldn't help but grin cheerfully. "I did i! Isamu, did you see?" She giggled, and felt the same elation she had whenever she was able to do something correctly for the first time. Her eyes sparkled with joy as she resumed her position, as Isamu had shown her, and took another deep breath to calm herself. She tried again and again, with greater success each time, until a couple of hours had passed and she had used the last of her arrows. His occasional remarks didn't feel hurtful, and his praise made her heart soar. She had to admit she felt as though she'd had quite the workout. She'd have to make sure to make more time to practice in the future. She didn't want Isamu to think his tutelage had been wasted if she wouldn't practice. She smiled gently as Isamu slipped the flower into her hair, and accepted his hand once more as they returned to camp.

When they entered their campsite, Haru took in the pair of them, noticed the quiver and bow in her hands and grinned. "I guess the animals aren't mounting an armed revolt after all..."

Hotori laughed softly. "You're so weird sometimes, Haru-kun..." She moved over to her things to put down her weapon, now that she was back at camp. She noticed Isamu move over to Haru and tell him something before returning and telling her he would be back. She nodded, but really didn't pay much attention to where he went. He had probably gone to catch something for dinner or something. She stretched, rubbing her arms. They were a little sore, after the archery practice...more proof she needed to practice more often. She took a deep drink of fresh, clean water before turning to face the others. Haru looked as if he was thinking about something for a long moment before he stilled casually over to her.

"How was practice, Hotori-chan?" He asked. He reached up and plucked the flower from her hair, twirling it between his fingers.

"It went well." She said, blushing faintly as she snatched the flower back and sniffed it, smiling. "You and Sei-kun would've been proud of me. I think if I keep practicing, I'll get quite a bit better..."

"We're already proud of you, little one." Haru smiled, reaching up to ruffle her hair. "In fact, as a reward, I thought I'd tell you about this hot spring I found while scouting around a little..."

"A hot spring?" Hotori repeated. It did sound nice, and her sore muscles would appreciate the rest. She listened intently as he told her where to go, and promised to not stay gone too long. "Oh, you'll tell Isamu-kun where I went, won't you? I don't want him to worry."

"I'll make sure he knows..." Haru promised with his usual grin. He watched her take off in the direction of the hot spring before turning and giving Sei a thumbs up, laughing when his love just rolled his eyes.

Hotori enjoyed the stroll along the path and through the meadow before she spotted the hot spring in the distance. She was a bit too shy to undress in the open right by the spring, so she ducked behind some bushes and undressed, gently folding everything and carrying it with her to put near the bank for easy reach once she was ready to get out. Her hair was long enough to preserve her modesty as she walked, not that she expected anyone to be there to see her. She stopped near a rock outcrop to put down her things before getting in when at last she took a closer look at the spring.

Isamu was there, relaxed in the water with his eyes closed. She blushed when she realized he, like she, was completely naked, and she instantly knew this had been Haru's plan when he'd suggested the hot spring. She briefly entertained the notion of using him for target practice, but knew she could never really hurt him, no matter what he did. She was about to gather her things and try to slip away again before Isamu noticed her when her eyes landed on the stone shining in the moonlight around Isamu's neck. He was still wearing it? Even now? Her heart soared, and she found herslef frozen to the spot as she stared at the stone.

Her eyes soon took in the strong muscles on his arms and chest. Her eyes darted to the waterline for just a second before she blushed and looked back up to his face. As she did, however, her gaze drifted over what looked like a scar. That puzzled her. She had thought Haru had said there wouldn't be a scar...and wasn't that the wrong side, anyway? Her curiosity got the better of her, and she shifted her weight forward to try and see it better, without really realizing what she was doing.

That was when her bare foot slipped on the wet rocks at her feet, and with a squeak of surprise she found herself flailing through the air briefly before landing in the hot spring. In Isamu's lap. There was a great splash, and Hotori could only sputter and blush for a long moment before her brain caught up with what had just happened, and where she was now located. Blushing more, and now resembling a tomato, she quickly tried to move off his lap and slip a little further away, covering her eyes with one hand and feeling her way along as she did.

"I'm so sorry...." She stammered. She couldn't lie to him, and knew it, so she stuck to as much of the truth as she dared, trying to explain that she hadn't intentionally been peeping on him. "I didn't know you were here. I heard about the hot spring and thought it's be nice, and I didn't see you there until I was undressed and was putting my stuff down, and then I slipped, and...I'm sorry..." Her words came out in one long stream, as embarrassed as she was, and one hand still covered her eyes.

She wasn't really sure what action would be best to take. She could get out, but that would involve uncovering her eyes, and she didn't want him to think she was a pervert, even if she had perhaps looked a second or two longer than she should have after realizing it was him. She didn't want to make him get out either though, as he had been there first, and it wouldn't be right to run him off. So instead she sat there, curled up in the warm water, eyes covered and blushing from head to toe...or so it felt. She was sure this would make things far too awkward for them in the future, and she hated it, but wouldn't blame Isamu if it did. She had to admit, it didn't look nearly as innocent as it...mostly...was.

Perhaps Isamu had been too naive to think that no one would find him at the warm springs, but he knew few used these roads these days, and he was one of the truly few people to dare to do so. Mainly because it was to code to the wilderness and most people feared creatures like wolves, bears and the like. Isamu had no problem with the wild life to be honest. Quite the contrary, he was happy being among nature and had learned to trust it and live in harmony so no beast or small creature disliked his presence and rather found a protector in him. The Ice Knight had a soft spot for those who suffered and could not do anything to defend themselves, be it man or animal, or plant. It was a beautiful life cycle that had to be respected and preserved. This place was so quiet and still, just as he felt within despite the turmoil of emotions he had been feeling the past few days. He sighed and realised that this was one of the reasons he had lowered his guard lightly, he needed to stop and relax for a bit, to quit sensing around him and rather sense within, give himself some time to rest and finish up the recovery process. He also needed to charge battery on his resolve, he would protect and love Hotori, but he would not voice his feelings. He did not want her to force herself to stay by his side if she id not feel the same way about him, she was too kind and would rather sacrifice her happiness to make her seishi and friends happy and he could not have her do such a thing. It would be wrong in his heart to accept that and so, he would silently enjoy every moment they shared together even if it was just a smile or a with remark. He sighed and kept his gaze up at the stars.

He felt a nearby presence but since he also decided to relax just this once he did not concentrate to learn who or what was close to the hot spring. In any case he had his weapons at the ready should he be attacked. He was trying to enjoy himself but he was no fool and would not let anyone or anything surprise him. He stretched his arms lazily and realised that his body was less stiff thanks to the water, good, he would be like new once he left the springs. He smiled and hoped Haru was not teasing Hotori too much, at times he could really make her uncomfortable but, he had to admit, that brotherly bond they shared was truly astounding. If no one truly knew them they would think that Hotori was related to Haru by blood if not by heart. He submerged once more, heaven doped his head and his hair took in the minerals of the water as he resurfaced to mid waist and then he began to scrub his arms and chest trying to cleanse his body of all the travelling and the pervious wounds. It was true that he had already taken a bath back at the Inn, but he did not stop to enjoy it as much s he did when he bathed in nature. There was something wonderful about being in such a place, in the middle of the forest, alone and at peace. He smiled softly as he looked down at the stone, it shone with the moonlight and he wondered if his eyes looked that silver-gold whenever the moonlight touched them, perhaps it did, for this gem was amber-coloured, just as his eyes were.

Many wondered about his eye colour. It seemed it was not that usual and at times people even failed to tell which colour exactly his eyes were. At first it had annoyed how little observant others were, but he soon decided to let it go and not care any more. He could not worry about such petty things when he had so much to do anyway. And once he took his current job as a bodyguard, well, then he learned that the best way to protect others and making them happy was not to judge them by what they did but their reasons behind each action. His fringe dipped some water as his amber eyes focused on his hands, hands that had been well covered on blood before and now, ever since he had made that promise, it seemed to him he was finding forgiveness form the many men he had killed. Would they ever forgive the deeds of a General? As a man with a military life you could not judge what was wrong or right when a monarch or a superior gave you an order, to do so would mean you would lose everything you fought to acquire, the way of life and would even be sent to prison or executed for treason. It was not easy, the life of a General and he knew that, back then, had he rebelled against his position he would have been left to roam the land an exile and his reputation would be tainted, who would hire him as a bodyguard then? No, he was glad in a small way that… things had ended as they now had despite the pain it had brought him and the scar to remind him each and every day.

He felt the presence move closer, but he forced himself not to overreact and concentrated on the bath, the water, the heat, the more time he spent there the better he felt. His body surely recovered fast, just a few more days and he would have regained his full fitness, two days at the most. He smiled and realised that no scar remained on the wound Haru had healed, he placed a hand there and gently tapped at the wound but felt no discomfort. He was glad, he would be able to perform his task as Hotori’s bodyguard and the leader of the group much better now. And this granted him the confidence that al would be well in the end. He sighed and submerged head on one more time and swam fora moment, before moving to settle back at a corner and leaning his back on the rocky wall. He ran a hand through his long dark hair, his fringe still dipped some more water, when it seemed to him a sudden movement happened nearby and he could not stop himself form turning that one time. He heard a light squeak and he gasped in surprise and his eyes opened widely when Hotori fell into the springs. Lucky for her he caught her before she could injure herself but he wondered what she could be doing here and…

He blushed a deep colour, almost as red as a pepper… A thought occurred him, that presence he had been sensing, i had been her. Had she been spying on him? He looked down for a moment hoping not to look too foolish, but then, as he stood inside the springs, the water covering him past his mid body, he felt Hotori’s warm body against his as he held her he blushed even more realising she was also wearing no clothing. No clothing at all… His eyes sparkled with the confusion, the surprise and the embarrassment of the situation. Yes, he loved her and wanted her to be close to him always but…he wanted it to come from her own freewill and he hoped he never forced her to appreciate him, although, he did long to have her affections. His eyes softened finally, feeling her soft body against his tanned and fit self. His heart raced almost as it did whenever he fought a battle to protect his charge or to win a fight when he was a General and he deemed that this one time, being so close to her, she could probably feel the heartbeat rate increase. And yet… he did not seem to care.

“Hotori…” He said slightly embarrassed still but, one of his hands moved to lock fingers with her own, while the other held her closer to him, if that was even possible. He got lost in her emerald abysses and for a moment he felt all resolve diminish like wind in a meadow. His eyes gleamed with the light of the moon that shone upon them as if it wished to protect them, to cover them with its dark mantle and give them the one moment they had been waiting for. Their locked hands lifted to rest between their bodies and he kissed her knuckles tenderly and slowly, it was impossible. Suzaku you bast***, thought Isamu, he kept getting involved did he not? Loving to make him feel completely miserable and at bliss at the same time. It was impossible for him not to love Hotori, she was so innocent and sweet and yet there was a light sparkly in her eyes, a certain naughtiness he had never thought existed within her. And though he knew he probably should not do anything that could change their lives, he wanted to love her, to be the one person she would give her heart to, was that truly such a terrible wish? he had never asked Suzaku for anything in life, but now, he found himself closing his eyes slightly and wishing that they could be allowed to be in amour with the blessing of the one deity responsible for this affection in the first place.

“I’m so sorry….”

He knew he probably had to appear angry and offended but he could not, it seemed to him she had come to the springs to simply enjoy them, she must not have hoped to find him here… And then… he had not told her where to find this place, he raised an eyebrow… Haru was a rather cheeky man was he not? but he was glad for this moment, and he was grateful he would wish to help but, he would not move forth until Hotori spoke of her own feelings. “Are you hurt?” He said softly, his eyes looking back at her beautiful face.

”I didn't know you were here. I heard about the hot spring and thought it's be nice, and I didn't see you there until I was undressed and was putting my stuff down, and then I slipped, and...I'm sorry…”

He felt her move away and cover her eyes and this allowed him the delight to see her once again. Bringing memories of when he had found Hotori in that dungeon with nothing to cover her modesty, and after that when she had told him he could stay as she bathed… and now… there aw son condition forcing them to be in this warm pool with nothing to stand between hem and he looked at her beauty for a moment, feeling his heartbeat increase even more and his cheeks reddened slightly. But it did not seem fair to him that she should trust him even in such an intimate moment and he would not… No, he would shoe her that he also trusted her. He slowly walked forth and helped her to stand up, he moved her hand from his eyes and smiled, “I understand…” his eyes searched for hers and he no longer felt embarrassed at having her look at him, she was, after all, the only woman he would ever love and the only one he would allow to look at him and he only hoped she liked what she saw.

“You do not need to shy away, remember?” His hand gently lifted her chin for their eyes to meet, some droplets of water fell fro his fringe as he smiled at her, this time though the smile lingered on and he gently took her hand once more and pulled her into an embrace watching the water in her hair make it sparkle as if it had been decorated by diamonds, his eyes shone with such realisation, and just as he did before back at the Inn, he said, “Beautiful…” his eyes never leaving hers, not for a moment. He was not sure what prompted him to act the way he did, it was probably the love he felt for her… but he was glad and he enjoyed this moment and would cherish it always.

Hotori could not believe it. She had fallen into the hot spring...and Isamu had caught her. Caught her and almost instantly embraced her. Wasn't he angry she'd peeped on him? Didn't he think her a pervert? She had to confess, she felt a little like one after spying on him in the bath. It had felt different from when he'd watched her in the room at the inn, because he had been too injured to leave, but Horori certainly had no such excuse now. And then she noticed his hands, one of which seemed to pull her closer as the other interlaced with her own finger. No gloves. It made sense that he wouldn't wear gloves in the hot spring, but she thought this may be the first time she'd ever seen him without them. Despite her embarrassment, she took just a second to stroke his hand with her thumb. Just once, as she recalled her earlier musings when he had been resting, about what his hands might feel like. He pulled their joined hands up between them, and kissed her knuckles, and all the while their eyes remained locked, as her brain tried to fully process what exactly was happening. There was just so much sensory data to take in that her usually quick brain seemed to be lagging as it tried to keep up.

He closed his eyes, just for a moment, and she was finally able to fully realize what she had done, and what situation she now found herself in. She blushed as she apologized and stammered out an apology, moving away from him at last, if a little reluctantly, and covering her eyes with one hand. Even if he didn't think she was a pervert, he surely resented this intrusion on what little private time he had allotted himself. She seemed to have been barging into his private time all day, though he hadn't seemed to mind when he was fighting off that poison earlier, but surely he minded now...

“Are you hurt?”

And yet his first spoken words were not of annoyance or anger, but of the same selfless concern her always showed for her. Eye still covered, she shook her head. "No, Isamu...I'm not hurt." Not unless her pride counted, as she felt a fool for not realizing Haru had been up to something earlier, but there was nothing Isamu could do to soothe that injury, so she kept it to herself. There was a long pause, and she waited with bated breath to see what he might do or say next...any indication of his thoughts as she crouched there in the warm water. She felt the water shift, and she thought he maybe leaving without another word. So he was angry then, and had just wanted to make sure she was unharmed before leaving. And again a surprise as she felt his strong but gentle hands touch her, helping her stand and pulling her hand from her eyes. He was smiling, and said he understood, and she couldn't help but smile in return. He tilted her chin up so their eyes met.

“You do not need to shy away, remember?”

He took her hand once more and pulled her into another embrace, and this time it was Hotori who lifted their joined hands and kissed Isamu's knuckles...the same way she had in the clearing earlier, though this time there were no gloves, and she could feel the rough skin of a man who had worked with his hands his entire life, and to her there was no greater feeling in the world. She pulled her hand from his gently, and surprised herself when she returned the embrace, wrapping her arms around his waist and resting her head against his chest. The closest she had ever come to returning such an embrace before was clutching his shirt, but this time there was no shirt to clutch, and anyway it just felt...right.

She felt safe in his arms, even now, as exposed and vulnerable as they both were. She trusted him completely. She knew he would never harm her...and hoped he knew she never wished to cause him harm either. She realized she had been silent since the embrace began, and so at last she replied to his words. "I remember. And I am...glad..." she felt her cheek warm once more with tat confession, but continued. "...that you do not shy away either..."

Oh, couldn't he see? Perhaps it was the warmth of the water, or the warmth from him, or maybe even the fact that she could hear his steady heartbeat where her head rested against his chest...but wasn't it as obvious to him as it was to her that she loved him with all of her heart? She wanted to believe that this embrace meant he returned her feelings...as there was no way this was a sign of him serving as her protector.

And yet, part of her mind still had doubts. In school, she had seen guys act cold and distant...and open themselves up to one girl, only to leave her sad later. Shouri had warned her not to fall for the act, as it was one guys used to lure girls like her. She pulled away enough to look up into Isamu's eyes, and instantly she knew this was no act. Whatever Isamu felt, it was real. This gentle openness was something special he would only share with her. As she gazed up at him, her heart soared once more.

And a sudden impulse struck her...once she had felt more and more often over the last few days. It was a selfish impulse, to kiss him and show him once and for all how she felt...and finally know if he returned those feelings. She had fought it back, letting her doubts rule her actions. But looking up at him, she couldn't fight it back any longer. If it was selfish, then just this once she would be selfish. And if he rejected her, it would make no difference. She could no more stop loving him than she could stop breathing, and at least she would have this one moment...this one memory to cherish when she returned home.

She moved her hands from his back, reaching up and resting one on his cheek in a gentle caress as the other rested over the stone she had given him...that simple token of love. "Isamu..." She wanted to say something profound, but could only manage his name before she pushed herself up and pressed her lips to his. Her eyes drifted closed as she realized this was her first willing kiss, and she knew if Isamu did not love her in return, it would be her last. It was short, and rather chaste, but it was all she dared until she knew how he felt for sure. She pulled away from the kiss, and stared up into his amber eyes, allowing all of the love she felt to shine from her own emerald gaze. She couldn't seem to keep herself from blurting out her next words. "I love you."

She hadn't meant to say that...hadn't meant to say anything that may force him to behave a certain way. He had said before he would put others' happiness before his own, and she didn't want him say he loved her...to pretend to return those feelings...just to make her happy. She blushed, and the hand that had rested on his cheek moved to cover her mouth, embarrassed by her confession. She took a step back, felling the warm water shift as she did so. "I..I'm sorry..." She mumbled. She had taken advantage of an intimate situation to suit her own desires, and she hoped, as she took another step back, that he would forgive her selfishness.

Many thoughts crossed his mind as he acted and showed Hotori his love for her. One of them being that he might scare the poor girl away and then feel ridiculous. He would be unable to earn her trust again and he doubted he would be able to protect her still or guide the group after that. His pride and reputation were all the man had left. Despite these ideas, his body and mind were determined not to yield this one time and all the repression he had forced upon himself made him feel alive, free… he could finally breathe. If she loved him, she would hopefully show him now, however, if she did not… he would gladly accept his fate but love her nonetheless. He realised this a while ago, if he loved Hotori he would respect her and whatever made her happy, but that did not mean he would ever stop feeling for her. This amour was too deep for him to dismiss it and live happily ever after. his heart burned for her and at times he feared that if he kept hiding all this there would come a time when his heart would burst and be consumed by the feelings themselves. Many would tell him he was a fool for either loving Hotori or not telling her presently. But who could blame him for giving her the space she needed? Wasn’t that what it truly mean to feel for someone? Freedom was the greatest gift given to people from the moment they were born and Isamu having experienced captivity was not about to remove such joy from his beloved.

But for now, she allowed him to touch her and he would keep this one memory set in his heart, and never let go of it. Even if she broke his heart that night, he would still remember it with a smile on his lips. She probably did not know that she had given him pure happiness. Something he had not experienced for many years and in a way he liked feeling a bit more human at times. Of course due to his prejudices over others and the past he endured, he could to simply trust others to know what he was truly like. However, he could do that with Hotori. And she was more than enough for him, he did not need anyone else and even so, she could not stay in this world so that meant that, once she was gone, he would be his old lonely self once more. But he would enjoy this while it lasted. That way, he would relinquish the past when he suffered in the future. He was grateful though, he never expected he would feel these emotions and be happy for once… It was a nice feeling.

“No, Isamu...I'm not hurt.”

He noticed that tone in the words she uttered. If her body was unharmed could it be she was ashamed of what had just transpired? Some people valued their pride greatly and he could tell Hotori, alike him, was one of those persons so he decided he would not make this situation harder than it already was for her. But, he would ensure she knew she did not have to feel that way. Accidents happened and surely there was a reason she had come here, she probably needed some time alone as much as he did. “Then there is nothing to worry about.” He hoped that at this point her mike skills allowed her to sense what he implied in such words, but if that did not work then he hoped that what he did next helped ease her mind and spirit. She was such a nice person, she did not deserve to suffer but rather laugh and smile, she was at her best when that happened and it brought joy and warmth to his heart. And she had such a beautiful laughter… his thoughts took him back to their recent ride along this forest. If he did ton know any better he could have sworn he almost felt ten years younger, he sighed, it was probably ridiculous for him to think that…as if someone so innocent could ever love the Ice Knight.

But…

Here he was, holding her to him once more and she did not move away, complain or make any gesture that showed she was displeased. Her smile made his even deeper and he could not help but to give in to this precious moment. It seemed that now he had managed to help her feel better and that would be all the reward or comfort he would need: her happiness. It sounded foolish and perhaps too selfless of him to assume he would always enjoy his life so ing as his loved one was happy, but he truly knew he could control his feelings from emerging it would only need training and great willpower but once mastered he would then be happy if she was. And what could be more rewarding than the smile of that one person you cherished above all else?

When he had finally made up his mind about his situation, he was slightly confused and yet pleased al the same when Hotori, this time, linked their hands and brought them toward her lips where she kissed his knuckles. His amber eyes looked down at her with curiosity and he was even more shocked when she returned the embrace. He closed his eyes in delight and wrapped his arms gently around her allowing the warmth of the spring envelope them as well. He sighed silently and kept his eyes closed for as long as Hotori was in his arms. In a way he wished the world to stop so that they could rest in each other’s arms forever and never be separated. Something within him finally began to reassure hi that perhaps he was not the only one in love in this spring.

"I remember. And I am…glad... that you do not shy away either…"

He smiled tenderly at her words, she truly had no idea how she made him feel right? All she had to do was smile and he was weak, yes, this proud warrior had finally come across his one weakness and aware of this he only hoped his enemies would not guess…would not use her to lure him… He slowly moved away, not too far, just so his eyes looked deeply into hers, “I could never hide from you, not after all we have bee through Hotori, not after you trusted me that night in the dungeons, and back at the Inn. You allowed me closer than you would anyone else, and I want to do the same for you now.”

He only hoped she realised how difficult this was for him. He had never been this close to anyone before, not even Aoi, lucky for him she betrayed him before he even contemplated such thoughts. His scar shone as the moonlight changed direction and he looked at it for a moment, but soon his thoughts moved back to the beautiful woman looking into his eyes with so much emotion he wondered if he was seeing things. He wondered if this was him wanting to believe that Hotori could be experimenting the same sensations as he was right now. However, having her lean so helplessly into his embrace, surely that meant that what he had heard her say was true… That she loved him… His heartbeat increased and his eyes looked fondly at his miko, his beautiful miko.

Isamu was not being possessive or selfish, but it did please him the fact that he had someone like Hotori in the middle of a spring, with nothing to shield her from him, even her intimacy itself, and she did all this willingly. He allowed her to move slightly away when she gave the indication she wished to do so and her eyes scrutinised his own. He wondered what she could be thinking, but he allowed her the privacy to enjoy her thoughts. In a way, since neither of them had been allowed that moment of peace and solitude, well, Isamu wanted to still achieve that for the both of them but not away tom each other, rather… enjoy this silence together…

He blinked when he felt her gaze again, and as he returned it, he could not hep it but to see determination in her eyes. It was almost as if she had been struggling with a thought and now, her mind was made up. Whatever she would tell him next he would accept, it would not change his feelings, but it would set the stepping stone on what would happen next. He gasped silently when one of her hands moved to caress his cheek and he found himself unable to hide the enjoyment of the touch and he lightly closed his eyes and leaned in. Her other hand rested on his chest, where the necklace was and he finally realised that… she had given him the necklace more out of love than gratitude. Both had been oblivious to each other’s emotions really…

“Isamu…”

His eyes opened and he looked down at her. There was something about the way she had called out his name, something different e had never sensed before… His gaze scanned her face for any hint or gesture that could certify his suspicions, but none came. Rather, she leaned up and before he had time to react her kiss pressed against his and his eyes opened widely for a moment. Yet, eventually they closed and he felt as if a great burden was removed from his back and pure joy filled his heart. There were no doubts now, she felt for him just as he felt for her and the joy made his amber eyes shine much brighter. Once the kiss broke, he smiled down at her and his arms held her closer, as if in fear that she might disappear after the revelation struck him. But her generosity did not stop there; she also declared her love for him…

"I love you.”

He looked at her shocked that she had uttered those words, words he himself could not build up the courage to say. He felt out of breath, with no words that could ever make justice to her kiss or the last words she granted him. She had offered him her heart, she loved the Ice Knight and his heart burned for her. “Hotori…” he whispered, yet the woe was almost inaudible with the rustling wind and the warmth of the springs. Yes, this broke down the walls he had built in order not to grow attached to his miko, not to feel the pain of reject or loss that had eaten away at him for many years. but for some reason, her personality, her kindness and the kiss she just granted him seemed to slowly heal his soul and he was grateful and even now he smiled at Suzaku for giving him the opportunity to hold in his hand the affections of such adorable person.

"I..I'm sorry…”

He smiled at her innocence, at her good nature and the shyness that seemed to take over her once more. But this time he would not back away, this time he would show her the rewards for being brave. “Hotori…” he said gently, his hand catching her wrist as she moved to run away. He pulled her back into a deep embrace and closed his eyes taking a deep breath and slowly releasing the air. He thought of the best way to show her that he also loved her, to convince her that he was more than capable of loving someone like her, but not only that, but ensure Hotori was aware that he loved her because he truly felt that way. One of his hands moved to caress her long silky hair all the way down to her back while his other hand still embraced her to his heart.

Isamu slowly leaned in and his lips touched her ear as he whispered, “Hotori… my love…” With one hand he gently placed his finger under her chin for their eyes to meet as he said more matter-of-factly, “my love…” His eyes shone with passion, a sentiment awoken by their first kiss. He then slowly leaned down and his lips met hers in a gently yet passionate kiss. His arms surrounded her and pulled her closer to him and for that moment, he allowed the kiss to speak his feelings for him…and this one time he hoped that Hotori would know he reciprocated these feelings of hers.

“I could never hide from you, not after all we have bee through Hotori, not after you trusted me that night in the dungeons, and back at the Inn. You allowed me closer than you would anyone else, and I want to do the same for you now.”

Of course Hotori had trusted Isamu and allowed him to be close. That was what one did when in love, was it not? And yet, if his words were sincere, did that mean what she dared to hope it did? Could it really be possible that he loved her as much as she loved him. It made her mind spin to consider it all as she rethought all the little moments they had shared over the last few days. And yet the doubts remained in the back of her mind as she considered that just about everyone saw her as a child, and he was ten years her elder, so surely he would as well.

She had instantly regretted her actions when she kissed him and confessed her feelings. Surely she couldn't dare to hope he would love her too. She knew she was too silly and childish for him, and yet he would be far too kind to reject her...and forcing her affections on him would be worse than keeping them to herself. She had tried to flee the moment she separated from him, but was shocked when he grabbed her wrist and pulled her back to him. His embrace was strong but gentle, as they had always been, but this one felt different, somehow. Not uncomfortable, but...more real. He held her close and stroked her hair as he whispered in her ear.

"Hotori...my love..."

His breath sent a shiver through her, but it was not an unpleasant experience. She could tell now that the emotions she'd been sensing...been trying to decipher to whom they belonged...in fact belonged to both of them. He loved her as deeply as she loved him, and he proved it by kissing her in return. It was gentle and passionate, and spoke directly to her heart. She returned the kiss and brought her arms up to rest around his neck.

Her eyes drifted closed, and she felt a true release of all of the doubt and worry she'd carried since she first began to fall for the man before her. When at last they separated, she rested her head against his chest, and slipped her arms around his waist once more embraced him, relaxing completely. She was smiling as broadly as she could manage, feeling happier than she had ever felt before. She love him, and was loved in return, and simply nothing else mattered. She felt something damp on her cheeks, and realized she was crying again, something she seemed to do more and more often...this time, however, they were tears of joy. "Isamu..." She sighed happily, hoping he would be able to tell how truly contented she was.

She lifted a hand to wipe the tears from her eyes before she moved to wrap it around him once more. The moonlight shone off the scar on his side, and caught her attention. She was curious about it, about his past, but none of that would matter, not really. He need not hide anything from her, but she would not pry either. She gently placed her hand over the scar, and leaned up to gently kiss his jaw before resting her head against his chest once more.

"I feel like..." She fumbled slightly for words, having a hard time putting words to all of her feelings. "I feel like, so long as I am with you...nothing else matters." She hoped he would understand her words, as she had no other way to express them. "Nothing but this moment...and all the moments like it." Her hand left his side to rest on his chest, over his heart.

"Can...can we stay here a while?" She asked softly. "Just the two of us? Just for a little bit?" For the first time since arriving in this world, she felt like she truly belonged, there in his arms in the quiet moonlight. She wanted nothing more than to settle into the warm water with him. They could talk of anything, or simply hold one another, and she wouldn't care. She wondered if he would want to hide their love from the others, though she was sure Haru and Sei knew already, and she still planned to punch Haru for setting her up, even if she was also grateful. She wasn't sure she could bottle these feelings up once more and hide them from the others, but she would do whatever Isamu thought was best. She trusted him that much.

Isamu sighed contentedly when Hotori ran her arms around his neck and kissed him in return. His eyes were still closed and he held her gently and though the wind was cold, he did not feel it at al for his hear was happy and his body was warm, feeling the soothing heat of his beloved’s soft body against his and the water of the springs ensured they could treasure this moment much longer. It was strange, that neither of them truly gave importance to their lack of clothing and rather enjoyed this tender affection both of them recently discovered, a precious gem in the middle of the ocean, a concealed flower in a rainforest and the most beautiful of the cluttering stars in the night sky. Perhaps that was what made this newly found love so special, it was not governed by the physical laws of attraction and mere vanity but rather by the depths of true and pure affection. As they kissed his hands moved gently down her arms and to her shoulders and one hand remained on her elegant neck while the other caressed her cheek, his heart burned and yet channeled these emotions through the kiss feeling the relief of finally being able to give this amour to Hotori with no reservations nor repressing this any longer despite how he knew that it would be a difficult relationship and they would not end together, even after they summoned Suzaku.

He felt her lightly shiver when he whispered sweet words in her ear and he smiled softly, in a way it pleased him to know he had that power over his young miko. Of course he would not try to harm her, but it was nice to know she loved him so and went weak on her knees whenever he walked into a room. He could not deny that she affected him that same way. Pulling away from the kiss his eyes remained closed for a moment, until he felt her embrace him once more and he looked down at her and he leaned down to embrace her, and he took in the fresh fragrance of her long green hair, both had truly long hair and the shades of ivory and green moulded together when the wind blew but they soon flew back into place covering their backs form the harsh weather outside the confinements of the warm springs. He felt movement and he looked down at his love noticing she was crying and he wondered if she was scared of him or something.

“Isamu…”

When she spoke, however, he closed his eyes and smiled. He had always enjoyed hearing his name pronounced by her soft lips but now, it even sent shivers down his spine and he loved it because, she spoke with her heart now and he knew both loved each other deeply. His hand gently moved to cleanse her eyes from the tears and he smiled and looking down at her he said softly, “I love you, Hotori.” How could he not love her? She was the most adorable person he had ever met. Seriously he would have to be blind not to see that or be extremely foolish, or a bit of both. He noticed the smile on her lips and it made his heart rejoice and he felt much younger…

He allowed her to embrace him an lean her head on his chest. All his life he had been weary of others, he had issues trusting and he never let down his guard….never…and here he was now, in the arms of a loving woman and lowering his guard more than ever. Although his weapons were at hand should he need them, he trusted Hotori completely and knew she would never bring him to harm, unlike… Aoi…hotori’s feelings were honest and pure and he mentally thanked whoever brought them together.

His thoughts were interrupted when he felt a hand on that old scar of his. And he quickly glanced down at Hotori while she looked at it and covered it with her small hand. He closed his eyes lightly when she kissed him and leaned her head against him once more. He sighed looking away, he would probably have to tell her one day… One and caressed her hair while the other held her closely.

“I feel like… I feel like, so long as I am with you...nothing else matters… Nothing but this moment...and all the moments like it.”

He looked down at her and his eyes shone with affection upon hearing her words. “Hotori…” He smiled and closed his eyes with a brief smirk before opening them again and looking up at the stars, “I will always be with you, it doesn’t matter where you are, or how far you go…” he held her even closer as he concluded, “I will always find you… because I love you and I belong only with you. And I will protect you from anyone or anything that tries to harm you.” He kissed the top of her head and closed his eyes leaning his head against hers. He could not picture himself without her and he knew that after Suzaku was summoned his heart would break far worse than anything Aoi or Ashraim could ever do. He only hoped they could find a way to be together forever. He could not exist without Hotori, she was like the other half of him.

He felt her hand slip to his chest, over his heart and he smiled. Lately it seemed to him he would only smile when in her company. This was truly love, was it not? And he wondered what his life would have been like if he had kept on loving without it, if he had forced his coldness even to Hotori’s kindred spirit. He shook his head, no, only darkness and despair would await him in such a path.

"Can...can we stay here a while? Just the two of us? Just for a little bit?”

He smiled tenderly and leaned down to kiss her lips for a moment, “Of course my love…” He gently pulled away and then lifted her gently, as he always did whenever he carried her in his arms, and he picked her up and moved as if she were light as a feather. He smiled and at first thought of settling down o a rock he had been sitting on inside the springs but then suddenly something inside him stirred, something that reminded him of a part of him that had been buried with the passing of the years and was now begging to come out.

He smirked and then walked to the centre of the spring and gently tossed her into the water, that part of the springs was deep enough so she would not get hurt with such experience and he would be there for her if she could not swim. He could not stop himself from laughing. Oh it felt so strange to laugh! He had almost forgotten that as well… the Ice Knight was giving in to the loving nightingale that came knocking on his door. But he did not regret doing so, come what may he was happy with being with his loved one. She looked beautiful even soaking wet...

Hotori typically concerned herself with what made others happy, and wanted to find her own happiness from theirs. She had worried that her little, selfish act...that first kiss...would be something she would regret. Now she realized that the only thing she regretted was that she had not done so sooner. She felt so happy, so content in that moment with Isamu, that she couldn't imagine ever being happy without him. She had been thinking, since she arrived in this world, how happy she would be to return to her home...now she dreaded that impending separation. She had just found true love, and all too soon they would be torn apart. It wasn't fair...he was a Suzaku Seishi, and she was the Suzaku no Miko...wouldn't Suzaku be the one who brought them together? Could he really allow them to be separated, when it almost felt as if this had been his design all along?

But, as they say, she would cross that bridge when she came to it. For now she was determined to fill Isamu's life with as much joy as she could. She had seen him smile more there in the hot spring than he ever had before, and she now realized that he smiled for her. Somehow, though she was no seductress, and knew she was naive in many ways, this wonderful, strong, brave, gentle man loved her.

”I love you, Hotori.”

His words seemed to echo her thoughts. She knew he did, now at least, and she silently wondered if the signs had always been there. How long had he loved her? For that matter, how long had she loved him? She had only become aware of it during her rescue, and his recovery...but her mind flashed back to all the people who had assumed they were a couple. Had those people been able to see what she and Isamu had both been so blind to at the time? She closed her eyes. It didn't matter, not really. As she had said, nothing mattered but this moment with the man she loved.

”Hotori...I will always be with you, it doesn't matter where you are, or how fat you go...I will always find you...because I love you and I belong only with you. And I will protect you from anyone or anything that tries to harm you.”

His words touched her more than any oath ever uttered before. She knew, somehow, they would always be together. They just had to be. To live without him now would be like losing part of her soul, and no one could survive that. Even if she lived to be a hundred, she would never find another man who could touch her heart the way the Willow Seishi had. She tightened her embrace, just slightly, as if Suzaku might take him away from her in the blink of an eye.

Somewhere in the back of her mind, she realized that, should someone happen upon them now, it would not look nearly as innocent as it was. Both were undressed, and embracing one another, and while she was sure there was a physical attraction between them...there was so much more than that. For anyone to insinuate anything improper, even in their current situation, would be an insult against the pure emotion they shared.

She asked if they could remain there, in the hot spring, for a while longer, and in answer Isamu effortlessly lifted her, as he'd done many times before. She closed her eyes, expecting him to sit down so they could continue their quiet embrace, smiling slightly at the relaxed comfort she felt in his arms...

Which made for quite the shock when he gently tossed her in the water, and laughed. She was completely submerged for a moment, and might've gotten disoriented if she wasn't a seasoned swimmer. She quickly broke the surface once more, and took a deep breath before hitting him with the biggest splash she could manage. “You brat!” She feigned anger, but if her wide grin didn't give her away, the laughter that followed soon would.

Hearing him laugh was like magic, and it made the desire to laugh...to play and simply have fun too strong to ignore. It also made him seem years younger, not that he was old by any means. Her emerald eyes sparkled in the moonlight as she got an idea. “Bet you can't catch me.” She said matter-of-factly, sticking her tongue out at him before she began to swim away from him. She had no doubt he could catch her, even if she had seriously been trying to evade him, but it was so much fun just to splash, and laugh and enjoy this new side to her beloved.

Haru had started to wonder about the pair once the moon was up, and had been for some time. It would be just his luck that Hotori had gotten lost on the way to the spring, and was wandering around lost in the woods. With a sigh, he left Sei in charge as he set out, just to make sure his Miko hadn't somehow gotten herself in some sort of trouble. He followed the path Isamu had indicated, and soon reached a vantage point that overlooked the hot spring. Nope, both were there...and, he realized, both were naked. He was about to intervene, as he had hoped this would be the push they needed, but didn't want to push them too far, when he realized that they were both laughing and splashing, and seemed to be...playing. Like children.

He shook his head, and slipped off back to camp. He had a feeling he didn't have to worry about the pair of them, and he did trust Isamu. He mused, as he walked back, that it seemed fitting that they were so playful. He couldn't say why, but it was. He had also seen more than he'd intended. Isamu wasn't half bad, though he wasn't Sei, and therefore held no interest for the healer. Hotori also wasn't his type, though he supposed some may find her attractive. He smirked. Isamu sure had, it seemed. He reached the camp, and grinned over at Sei. “Our child is in good hands.” He informed as he returned to his seat by his love. “So fear not...”

Back at the spring, Hotori looked up suddenly. She'd been so distracted with Isamu, she'd almost missed it, but she could've sworn she'd sensed Haru nearby. If he was spying on them...especially after putting her in this situation to begin with...she was going to hit him.

He looked down at Hotori for a moment wondering if she was pleased by his words or if they bright sadness into her heart. She held him tighter though as if to answer to his mental question. She feared them being torn apart and he closed his eyes for a moment and leaned down to embrace her even more lovingly. He sighed and hoped that he could make her happy for as long as she stayed in this land, once the beauty was over and he was forced to find a way to follow her, he would concentrate on that. For now, he would be damned if he spoiled any minute in her company and he honestly no longer cared if the other Seishi found out or if anyone did for that matter, however, they might have to hide their love in public to ensure no one knew how close they were to each other. He could not afford Hotori to be hurt once again by any of his enemies, especially his Nemesis. He had never felt such bliss before and for once he was grateful that even if it were to last for five minutes, he had managed to feel al these strong emotions and experience reciprocated love.

As if to try and ease her worry he whispered as he held her still, “Hush my love, I am here…” He smiled and still held her lovingly and tried to comfort her to the best of his ability. this was still pretty new to him, after all, he was not used to being so close to someone-and there might be more awkward moments to come but he trusted Hotori would not mind and would help him with this.-This situation somewhat made him realise they were almost in the same situation as that one night he had seen her cry and had offered her the comfort of crying in his arms for the very first time. His eyes opened at the memory and he sighed, back then he had been shielded form al of these emotions because he feared what could come from them. And now, here he was, completely exposed to the same woman he had vowed to protect and never show anything else about his true self to. There could be no deeper trust in her than what he showed now, he did not even have his weapons at a hand’s grasp, but he had confidence in her.

Perhaps that was what it meant to love and be loved. It implied you trusted someone with no reservations and showed yourself exactly as you were. Now, Isamu showed his true form, his true essence and Hotori did the same and it did not change their feelings for each other, rather encouraged them even further and it made him smile.

The moment he lightly tossed her into the water and laughed, he was also alert in case she could not swim, he did not want any harm to come to her, especially form his own doing. But he grinned when she came out once more taking a deep breath and he had to admit, she looked like a goddess emerging form the water in such a way, her beauty shone with even more intensity when she was happy and he found himself looking at her with pure awe.

“You brat!”

He smirked and use chis arms to block as much water as he could when she sent a big splash his way. He moved his head away and closed his eyes, more droplets graced his long hair and fringe and he still managed to grin after that. He could see she was not angry but was grinning as well. Now that was a side of her he had never seen before and he smiled for a moment, his deep amber eyes shining like the stone around his neck while they gazed into her emerald eyes. It felt as if he was learning new things about his beloved with each passing moment. How he loved this feeling…

“Bet you can't catch me.”

He raised an eyebrow at her words but then grinned when she suddenly began to run and swim away as fast s she could. “I would not make such assumptions.” He allowed her some more minutes of advantage before he laughed for a moment and then began running and swimming toward her and with one swift movement he caught her and embrace her from behind. Holding her lovingly and wrapping his arms around her and closing his eyes for a moment before he teased her, “I think I could catch you even if I gave you a mile of advantage, my miko.” He kissed the top of her head and smiled but then he suddenly felt a presence and he still held her closely but he stopped moving and stared in a direction for a moment. He would protect her even in this place, of that he was sure, modesty was unimportant if he had to risk his life for her. But then he felt the presence and he almost instantly knew who it was. Haru had seen them? He probably thought them foolish and rather… improper, however, he left, maybe he worried for Hotori’s safety and probably wanted to ensure she was with Isamu.

Looking back down at her he smiled, “You have brought light to my darkness and warmth to my ice, yo really are a rare game in a mine, my love.”

"Bet you can't catch me." Hotori had teased before swimming off.

“I would not make such assumptions. I think I could catch you even if I gave you a mile of advantage, my miko.”

He did catch her, and pulled her against him once more. She felt him kiss the top of her head and smiled, teasing lightly. "Yeah, well, I let you that time. If I'd really felt like trying, I bet you wouldn't have." He would have anyway, she was sure, but this new playful side was far too much fun to stop. For once she felt she could be silly and playful without being seen as childish...not that Isamu had ever made her feel like a child. He was usually the only one to treat her as an adult, and she realized that was one more thing she loved about him.

Her head snapped in the direction she could sense Haru. It seemed he was already heading back to the camp. "Haru-kun, that perv!" She grumbled, though as close as Isamu was she was sure he could hear her. "How dare he spy on us?" Still, it was hard to stay angry when she felt so happy with Isamu. She turned in his arms enough to look up at him and gave him a gentle smile. Her eyes locked onto his once more as he spoke.

“You have brought light to my darkness and warmth to my ice, yo really are a rare game in a mine, my love.”

She blushed faintly even as she smiled at his words. It would take some getting used to, hearing such things and knowing they were meant for her. "My beloved Isamu..." She murmured as she leaned up to give him a small kiss before speaking again. "You have been my strong and constant protector since we met. No one can ever compare to the happiness you bring me, and the peace I feel knowing you will be there for me." It may not be as poetic as his words, but it was from her heart.

Looking at him now, watching beads of water from their recent 'chase' run down his skin in the moonlight, she was taken with just how handsome he was. The stone around his neck almost seemed to shine with it's own inner light, though she was sure that was just a trick of the moonlight, and the water droplets sparkled like so many stars. According to the legend, the Seishi were known as Celestial Warriors, and she could easily imagine Isamu taking his place amongst the stars. He was a star, in a way. He'd been so cold and distant, but beautiful, in the past just like the stars far overhead, but now he showed that he was as near and warm as the sun, which was also a star. It seemed contradictory, but somehow when she thought of the man she loved, it all made sense. She only wished she could articulate these feelings into words as lovely as the ones he showered her with.

She wrapped her arms around him once more and sighed happily, closing her eyes. She didn't want to break this peaceful, lovely moment they were sharing, but a question did have to be asked. She leaned her head against him once more but did not open her eyes as she spoke. "Since we've been spotted, should we head back...or should we try to ignore the big dumb perv and stay a bit longer?"

Not that she really thought Haru was a pervert, but it was one more thing she could give him a hard time about, as payback for all of his teasing. Surely he had to know they both had detected him. He couldn't have forgotten that they could do so, could he? And why send her here, just to check up on her and not interfere? She honestly didn't understand the healer sometimes...

”Yeah, well, I let you that time. If I'd really felt like trying, I bet you wouldn't have.”

Isamu grinned holding his love tenderly and warmly, “I’ll have you know I waited to give you some advantage now before I began to chase after you and I still caught you.” He leaned down to kiss her shoulder tenderly before he rested his head on top of hers and sighed happily. Wouldn’t it just be wonderful if they could stay here forever? No more adventures that would end up separating them and only the both of them being together, sharing happy memories that they would always cherish even in the next life. Did Hotori actually know how happy she made him by being herself…by loving him the way she did? Who would have thought he would actually find someone to love him despite what he had been led to believe for many years? Now he wished to protect her with more than his life, if that was even possible. He loved to hold her like that, just as he had longed for such a long time, he had refrained himself in order to avoid hurting her, but she also seemed to reciprocate his feelings and it would be unfair to his beloved to suffer if he denied what could not be denied, not anymore. And the intensity of their affections grew with each passing second he was determined he could no longer stand his ground without her in his life.

He did not mind this new side of her, of them actually. It seemed to make Hotori happy and so that was a good thing. She had cried a lot lately and he did not want to see her cry anymore, at least not in sorrow but rather joy. It hit him then that she was always this cheerful around the other Seishi, but for some reason this was far more special for he was included in this. IN the past he had been the Ice Knight and did not wish to get involved in any of this to avoid being hurt and putting the lives of other sin danger. In a way having an enemy like Asharim meant he would be done for one way or another and so would those who loved him. But, Hotori made him feel strong enough to fight for the both of them, and he would defeat his Nemesis one day, once and for all.

“Haru-kun, that perv! How dare he spy on us?”

He smiled down at her when her beautiful eyes turned to look at him. In all honesty he did not mind that much now but, it was a bit awkward to have someone spy on you, especially when it was your second in command and who had actually sent them both into the hot springs. But he decided not to care for the time being and he smiled down at Hotori and placed a hand on her cheek, “Do not worry, my love. Just enjoy the moment.”

“My beloved Isamu… You have been my strong and constant protector since we met. No one can ever compare to the happiness you bring me, and the peace I feel knowing you will be there for me.”

He smiled feeling his heart rejoice at her words and he returned her kiss and caressed her hair behind her back. Whatever did he do to earn her affections he would never know, but he would do his best to keep her happy and safe and that would be the best way to show his appreciation of her. He would treasure the one person he adored in this world for it felt a gift from Suzaku, after all these years of misery. “I’m always here for you, Hotori, always…”

“Since we've been spotted, should we head back...or should we try to ignore the big dumb perv and stay a bit longer?”

He chuckled and held her closely, “I am sure he just wanted to ensure you had arrived here without getting lost or something. He knows I will protect you, we can do what you like, stay here a bit longer or go back, I wish to please my miko.” He looked down at her and smiled caressing her cheek. He wondered if Hotori wanted to kick Haru once they got back for what he had done, it was a bit naughty of him but, in a way, he had ensured they would finally confess their mutual feelings.

“I am sure he just wanted to ensure you had arrived here without getting lost or something. He knows I will protect you, we can do what you like, stay here a bit longer or go back, I wish to please my miko.”

Hotori was annoyed at Haru, and wanted to give him a good punch in the arm, but she was in no hurry to end this lovely moment. Let Haru go back to camp and wonder what was keeping them. In answer to his question, she silently stepped away from him, taking one of his hands as she moved to where some smooth stones were submerged near the side. They were the perfect height to sit on and submerge herself up to her shoulders. It wouldn't cover Isamu as completely, but it would still be comfortable for them both.

"Let's stay a little longer then." She said at last as she released his hand and settled onto the stone. She stretched her arms out lazily at her sides before she smiled up at him, feeling her hair flow out around her in the warm water. She closed her eyes as she relaxed into the feeling of the water, allowing her hands to float slightly. She hoped he would join her and hold her once more, but she didn't want to state this. Somehow, saying it out loud made it feel like an order, or a request he was compelled to follow, and she never wanted him to feel he had to do or be anything he did not wish, not for her, and never around her.

"Your Miko?" She asked, her eyes still closed. She had understood his meaning, of course, but she really was enjoying this light teasing she was able to engage in. "I suppose that makes you my Seishi..." She stressed the possessive words, enjoying applying them to the pair of them. A soft laugh bubbled up form her lips, and she opened her eyes once more before staring up at the moon and stars high above them.

"I want to stay like this forever..." She confessed softly, barely above a whisper. She didn't look away from the stars for some time, but she knew she couldn't stay there forever. In truth, they really couldn't stay too much longer. The water was wonderful and relaxing, but she knew her skin would start to get pruney soon, and she had no desire to let Isamu see her with wrinkles, even the temporary sort, any time soon. She finally looked back at Isamu and smiled as her eyes met his once more. It had to be impossible to feel so happy, and yet she did. It was a wonder her heart didn't burst from all the joy and love she felt, and she hoped he would be okay with letting the others in on their new relationship, as she wasn't sure she'd be able to hide it from them...not that at least one of them didn't already know...

"Let's stay a little longer then.”

He smiled at her and watched her as she moved to sit on a rock and he silently followed her and as he sat next to her he wrapped her into a warm embrace, “we could also start a small fire to get dry before we walk away, if you do not mind that, unless you prefer to use your cloak to dry yourself and just walk back tot he campsite.” He was not sure why he came up with such a bizarre idea but, it felt only natural that they thought of ways to be together in this special night. After all the time they have spent together they had finally summoned the strength to confess their mutual affections. Besides, they were lovers in the aspect that they loved one another but their feelings had yet to move to the next level and well they would rob ably have to be careful once they truly became enamoured with one another since that was when their desire could come to life and she needed to stay pure to ensure that the job of the miko could be completed. However, that did not mean he did not feel something tickling his heart when looking at her with no clothes to hie her from him. Yet, perhaps that was what discovering love was all about? Aoi had been different but, she and been an experienced woman used to luring men to fulfil her wishes and he had been foolishly deceived by her ways for he had been no expert in love back then, he came to realise that even then he had never loved Aoi, but had been tied to her through her lies. And that was what he could never forgive her for, and what made him as cold as he had been for such a long time.

He kissed her neck briefly and moved down to her shoulder placing chaste small kisses on her skin before he looked up at the stars, the same place she was looking at and then she spoke again. He had not expected her to speak just yet since she had been so lost in her own mind but he smiled briefly, yet kept his gaze in the stars up high.

“Your Miko? I suppose that makes you my Seishi…”

He grinned, “I guess it does…” For some reason he had never liked being taken as someone’s possession. Being a General was the worst example since he was ordered to risk his life fighting countless battles and at times using justice against the innocent and it had never felt right. Although he loved serving Konan and the people there were a few things he was not happy with. When he became a bodyguard he was his own Master and he could take up a job or not and he never allowed a customer to treat him with little respect, he always did a great job and was paid well, and that allowed him to help those in need and travel the land as he pleased. But now, the way Hotori said that, it felt so different. It told him he finally had a home inside the heart of a fair maiden. A home to reside in and never fear to be hurt an he could give her his heart in return, it was that kind of possession and he was glad for it.

“I want to stay like this forever…”

“Hotori…” he whispered while he held her gently against him and leaned down, his lips searching for hers before he enveloped her in his gentle love, pouring his feelings through the kiss to this lovely maiden. The kiss lasted perhaps longer than the rest, but once he pulled away he took a deep breath and smiled at her, “I am afraid you would not like the feel of wrinkly skin, would you? Besides, you might need some rest for the journey ahead.” He smiled at her and placed a hand on her cheek, “I love you and I will always feel the same way for you, my beloved miko.” He was not sure how it happened but here he was now, telling the one persons he was born to protect, that against all they were taught regarding this world and the gods, he loved her and would do everything at hand to not suffer the same fate as the other mikes and their beloveds who were separated never to love again.

“we could also start a small fire to get dry before we walk away, if you do not mind that, unless you prefer to use your cloak to dry yourself and just walk back tot he campsite.”

Hotori felt a little silly. She hadn't even considered the question of drying off once they got out of the spring. Had it just been her, she probably would've dried off with her cloak and hung it up near the fire to dry once they got back to camp. However, since Isamu had mentioned it... "The fire sounds nice." She decided. It would give them a little more time together and that was all she really wanted at the moment. He embraced her once more, and spread little kisses along her neck and shoulder. Never, in all her life, if anyone had told her she'd be sitting naked in a hot spring while a handsome man kissed her in such a way, would she have ever believed them. And yet, here she was, and though it was not as many would imply, it was still a bit surreal.

She did not fear his touch, and never would, and he seemed to be just as at ease with hers. He did not want the same things from her that horrible man had wanted, and she did not seek the same things that terrible barmaid had sought. Still she was not so naive to think that their love would never grow to include physical desire. Even now, she could feel small tingles dance through her skin when he kissed her, and knew what they would someday mean.

She wanted to hate Suzaku for dragging her here and dooming her to a love that could never be complete...could never last, and yet she could not because with out Suzaku she would not know that such a thing as love could even exist. Not true love. Had she never been pulled into the book, she may have met someone and thought she was in love, but she could not imagine anything like the magic she felt with Isamu existing in her own world.

"I want to stay like this forever..."

“Hotori… I am afraid you would not like the feel of wrinkly skin, would you? Besides, you might need some rest for the journey ahead.”

She enjoyed the long kiss, leaning up slightly to meet him, and allowing her eyes to drift closed. Once they parted, she leaned her head against his shoulder, and laughed heartily at his teasing comment. "I do believe you can read my mind. I was just thinking I wasn't ready for you to see me with wrinkles quite yet." She smiled up at him for a long moment, reaching a hand up to caress his cheek. Her emerald gaze found his amber, and she smiled. "I suppose, my love, that we should build that fire to dry off before any of the others decide to come check on us." Poor Sei, always so shy, might just fall into a dead faint if he saw them currently. She leaned up to place one last light kiss on his lips before reluctantly moving to get out of the spring.

Back at the campsite, Haru had decided, despite Isamu's assurance that he'd fix dinner when he returned, to go ahead and do so himself. Everyone had eaten, and he'd set Hotori's and Isamu's near the fire where it could stay warm, but not so close that it would overcook. He was glad the pair were enjoying themselves, but Sei had wondered a time or two if they should go look for them, and so he hoped they returned before his little love headed off and witnessed something he may not be ready for.