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 Posted: Sat Jan 20, 2007 11:48 pm
~:: How it began...::~
Giggling cheerfully, the female cat youkai dipped her feet into the river again and again, smiling with pleasure as she watched the cool water drip from her toes. It was a quiet, warm afternoon on the shore of Red Rose River as Kiraboshi laid leisurely in the sun, her faded blue jeans rolled above her knees and her shoes and socks idly lying by. It was a bit of a boring day, no excitement, no adventure. She yawned and stretched, scratching her large brown cat ears in annoyance.
"Bor-ing!" she declared as she stood and shook off her restlessness. She tugged on her white tank top and adjusted her pink jacket about her waist. "I just can't believe how dull it is! I guess there isn't anything else to do but go home," she moaned, pulling on her socks and brown boots. After tying back her medium brown hair into a tail at her neck, she started back home.
Her march was cut short, however, by a tiny wailing sound. "Eh?" she said, peering around for the maker of the strange noise.
It wasn't long before her keen pink cat eyes spotted movement across the river. Her curiosity running wild, she looked around for some way to cross the heavily flowing river.
A fallen tree farther down the shore was her ticket. Kira stood on the shaky branch and slowly made her way over, carefully, inch by inch.
"Uh! That's dangerous! We need a bridge there," Kira complained to no one, frowning at the dead tree. She quickly shrugged it off, making her way back up the shore in search of the mysterious sound.
The cat girl soon tramped to the spot she had seen the motion in, and began her search. Her ears twitched, hoping to once again pick up the noise, but nothing could be heard. "Oh, man," she sighed, flopping down on a patch of grass near the bank, "I guess it left."
As she sat pouting, a sweet smell floated towards her. Sniffing, she rose and followed her sensitive nose towards the strong honeysuckle scent.
"There!" Kira shouted, finally spying a bundle of blue.
She crept low, skillfully sliding closer and closer. As she was about to poke the strange heap, it gave a wiggle, and the high pierced cry came again. Gasping, Kira finally knew just what kind of creature made that sound.
"Baby!" Kira squealed as she unwrapped a bright indigo eyed baby boy. He sneezed, his small ears flying forward and his tail swinging. "Omigawd, you're a cat youkai too!?" said Kira in wonderment, "But, where are your parents, lil guy?"
The baby sneezed again, obviously not used to Kira's scent. Kira giggled. "You smell odd, too, ya know," she told him solemnly. She picked him up carefully and he instantly clung to her with sharp, clean claws. Both purring wildly, the kitten and adult shared their first embrace.
Setting the smiling babe in her lap, Kira asked, "Where didja come from, huh?" The baby giggled and pushed his blankets away from himself.
Nodding, Kira helped him. "Hot, isn't it?" she inquired aloud, placing the blankets aside.
"Hm?" The feline saw a scroll fall from the sheets. Picking it up, she unrolled it and read:
'It is to my sad regret that I must forfeit my son, Prince Nyoko, to the wilds of the world. Dangers from the other kingdoms have threatened his survival, and while I myself cannot abandon my people, I know this is the right path for him. He will one day be the hope and prayers of the kingdom, and if he perishes now, these hopes die with him. So I beg you, kind and noble being, please raise my Nyoko, so he will have a future that perhaps I will not.'
Gasping, Kira stared at the innocent kitten, sleeping soundly in her arms. "I guess that's that," she whispered, gently rubbing his brown hair. She stood, babe in hands, and continued home, failing to notice the silver earring of the Royals dangling from his left ear.
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Posted: Sat Jan 20, 2007 11:57 pm
~::The Meeting::~
It was late in the afternoon when Kiraboshi arrived home to her cottage. Flinging open the door with Nyoko the baby cat youkai in her arms, she sang out, "I'm home!" She moved tiredly to the bright yellow couch in her small but cozy living room and sat down. Snuggling the sleeping child into a mound of pillows, Kira stood, smiled, and retreated to the kitchen to find something for him to drink once he woke.
A loud baying sound nipped her attention from the cream she was pouring. Worriedly, she raced down the hall, forgetting the cream. Stopping at the end of the hall, she hurriedly put her hands on the smooth wood and closed her eyes.
Majik streamed from her hands, pouring into the wood. A low moaning sound rang out, and the wall began to melt. There, standing in front of Kira where the wall used to be, was a white, glistening wonderland. Snow sprinkled down softly on dark green pines, and a frozen pond sparkled in the sun.
Kira put her hands on her hips, and, looking sternly, called out, "Yuki! Where are you, ya silly beastie?" She needn't have waited long, for out from the snow drift came a huge, lavender coated bear, panting happily at her master's return. Yuki the Spirit Beast bounded up on Kira, pushing her down and licking her face.
"Hee-hee! Ok, Ok! Calm down, Yuki!" Kira pushed her purple polar bear from her chest, and gave her a pat. "Didja miss me? I have a surprise for you!" Kira said as she led Yuki down the hall. Back in the living room, Nyoko was wiggling lightly, his eyes scanning the room curiously. When his eyes settled on the huge furry bear, he made a squealing noise and held out his arms, to which Yuki answered with a confused, "EHH?"
Kira laughed. "It's ok, Yuki. This is Nyoko; he'll be staying with us for a bit. See?" She held out the scroll for her Beast, even though Yuki had no idea how to read, "The Queen couldn't keep him, because of the troubles they're having. Remember I told you? About the wars between the kingdoms? Well, it seems the Queen of this kingdom had to leave him." Kira sighed and gave Nyoko a pet. "The poor thing! We'll have to be his family from now on, Yuki."
Kira turned to where Yuki had been, but found the bear gone. "Yuki?" Kira questioned, looking around. She purred happily when she found her Spirit Beast. "I guess you understand," she whispered, watching Bear and Baby cuddle quietly on the sofa, "I guess you understand."
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Posted: Thu Feb 01, 2007 12:55 pm
~::Nyoko's first word::~
It wasn't long before Kira and Nyoko were great friends. She'd made a sweet little bed for him in the spare bedroom, with golden silks and fine feather downs, and had carefully decorated the room with normal, very un-royal things. Paintings of sceneries hung cheerfully on the walls, standing out with vivid, bright colors.
It was only three days after Kiraboshi found the young royal hiding in the reeds. She had bathed him thoroughly that very night, brushed his soft hair till it glistened, and tucked him into bed with a kiss. The next morning, Kira and Nyoko ventured outside, Kira showing him the beautiful and not-so-beautiful places around their cabin. She slowly explained all the things she could to him, for she noticed he was quite a smart child already. She couldn't wait for the day he said his first word.
He was already crawling, scooting around the house staring in wonder at the great many things Kira owned. She spoke soft to him, repeating words often.
It was on the third afternoon that Kira noticed Nyoko petting Yuki idly, rolling his tongue around in his mouth. She sat on the floor with him, and pulled him onto her lap.
"Mommy Kira," she said, stroking his head, "Say 'Mommy Kira'."
Nyoko watched her mouth move, slowly analyzing it. He looked up at her and giggled.
"Say 'Mommy Kira', Nyoko," Kira pleaded to the infant. "Mommy Kira!"
Yuki pushed her nose into Nyoko's chest and grunted. She wanted more petting. Kira sighed and gently tugged at Yuki's fur. "No, Yuki. Nyoko is busy. No more, Yuki."
Nyoko smiled and pointed at the big purple bear. "YUKI!" he shouted, clapping his hands together.
Kira was upset! "No! Nyoko! You were supposed to say MY name first!" she whined. Sighing, she gave Nyoko a hug. "No, don't worry. You're such a good boy. You'll get my name soon." She slide him over to the couch. "Stay here, Mommy Kira's going to get lunch."
Kira stood and walked into the kitchen, sulking. She was too busy sulking, in fact, that she didn't hear Nyoko's words as she left.
"Mommy Kira."
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Posted: Thu Feb 01, 2007 12:59 pm
~::Arts 'n' Crafts Day::~
Kira laughed cheerfully as Nyoko the baby cat youkai clung to her leg as she neatened up the playroom. He watched with wide eyes as she dusted a huge safe in the corner.
It wasn't truly a 'playroom' as Kira called it, but actually a storage room for, unexpectedly, weapons. Daggers, swords, maces, spears and dozens of other dangerous weapons lay neat and tidy in their places. Kira looked around and straightened the shelf holding her potions and majik supplies.
Since Kira was a creature bounty hunter, weapons and majik were a must to keep. She normally kept to herself way out in Death Forest, but every once in awhile, she needed supplies. Grabbing some of her things, she'd race to the near-by town and take up a bounty job.
She seriously needed some money now, with Nyoko needing warm blankets, food and other things. She wrinkled her brow in frustration. "Nyoko," she started, peeling the child off her leg and plopping him down lightly in her desk chair, "Mommy Kira has to go to town today, to get you some new clothes and things. Yuki will take care of you, ok?"
She gave the baby a pet on the head, and heard him coo and purr in delight. Convinced he understood what she was saying, since he was indeed a smart baby, she carried him back into the living room.
Laying him down on a blanket on the floor, she called her Spirit Beast, and explained the situation. "So, be careful with him, and I should be back soon. He's eaten, so just watch him play, hm?" Kira hugged Nyoko and Yuki, and set off to town, making sure anything dangerous was locked up tight. She hurried on, knowing Yuki could well keep care of the baby, but not wanting to miss any more 'firsts'.
The time crawled by slowly for Yuki, watching the wriggling brown bundle make noises and push blocks around. She sighed, and settled down for a nap.
When Yuki woke only an hour later, the wriggling brown bundle was NOT making noises or pushing blocks around. In fact, he was no where to be seen! Panicking, the bear burst into the kitchen, flew down the hall and skidded into the rooms. The baby wasn't there! Did he somehow get out? Yuki groaned loudly and put her paws over her eyes. Master was NOT going to be happy!
Suddenly, a sound rang out from the playroom. Yuki peeked out from below her paws. Was Master's baby in the playroom? Didn't Master lock that room, so the baby couldn't get in? She stood and shuffled quietly towards the room.
The door was ajar slightly, and giggles came from behind the door. Yuki pushed open the door with her nose and blinked. The small baby was on Master's desk, scribbling all over a piece of paper with a crayon. Yuki bayed with relief and leaped forward.
Nyoko smiled happily. "Yuki," he said in his soft little voice, as he reached down to give the bear a pat. He held up the paper. "Cra'on," he said slowly, trying to sound out the new word, "Cra'yon."
Yuki sighed. He hadn't gotten himself hurt, even with all the sharp, pointy edges around the room. She nuzzled him affectionately and gave him a comforting lick.
Kira arrived home, tired and weary from a long day of fighting and shopping. Kira wasn't sure which one was tougher. After throwing off her coat, she called out to Yuki, who gave a friendly bay in response. Kira, confused, followed the sound and ended up in the playroom. "Oh no!" she cried as she flung open the door, expecting to see a gruesome sight.
It was a gruesome sight, very gruesome indeed. The floor was covered in paints of all different colors, as was Nyoko and Yuki. They both smiled at her and chirped happily. "Mommy Kira!" called Nyoko, waving two papers at her in glee. "See, see?" he asked, holding them out.
Kira laughed. "I sure do, hon. And I see the mess you've made, too. Yuki, shame on you! Did you let him get into the paints?" The bear gave an embarrassed snort, and hid her head in some paint. Kira, walking over and picking up Nyoko, sighed. "Well, it's bath night all around, isn't it?"
Nyoko purred and waved the papers again. "For Mommy," he whispered, laying his sleepy head on her shoulder. With in minutes, the tired little artist was fast asleep.
Kira brushed some paint off him. "Thank you, my darling," she whispered back, cradling the infant in her arms. This was the kind of moment that made parenting so rewarding.
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Posted: Thu Feb 01, 2007 1:02 pm
~:: All Growed Up::~
It was a beautiful, clear morning by Blood Lake, the light waves of the lake crashing cheerfully into the shore as Kira scooped up shells in the sand. Baby Nyoko played in the water, splashing and kicking his feet. Kira sighed happily, standing up with her basket full of shells of exotic colors and shapes.
Nyoko laughed. "Mommy Kira! Nice!" he called out to her, wiggling himself deeper into the small puddle offshore. Kira wadded over to him. "Aww, aren't you sweet?" she cooed, ruffling his brown hair lightly. He giggled and smacked the water some more.
Kira sat down beside Yuki, who was fast asleep in the sand. Giving her a pat, Kira settled down to read.
Kira awoke a few minutes later, surprised she had fallen asleep at all. She turned her attention at once to the spot Nyoko was, but the little boy wasn't there! Desperately, Kira looked this way and that, trying to spot her little boy. There was no sign of him, and she worried feverishly if he had fallen into the lake.
A giggled rang out from the lake, and she turned her attention towards the sound. There, out in the lake, stood a boy who looked remarkably like Nyoko. But it couldn't be! Nyoko was a baby, who could only stumble along! But this boy was standing, really standing, without wavering at all! Furthermore, he was standing - on water! Nyoko couldn't do that!
"Mommy Kira!" called the boy, with a soft voice much like Nyoko's. He waved wildly, "Mommy Kira! Lookit me!" Kira gasped, was that really Nyoko, calling to her in the middle of water? Could it be...that he was a water mage?!
Kira called out to her newly adopted son. He began slowly walking towards her, upon the water's surface. Her eyes shining, she giggled with glee. Her little boy had transformed, not just into a big boy, but a mage! She didn't even know he had Majik in his blood! A water mage! No wonder he was so calm, quiet, and intelligent.
Kira held open her arms as the young toddler jumped from the water to the shore. He leaped into her arms and gave her a great big hug. "Mommy!" he cried, snuggling into her. Tears fell from Kira's overjoyed pink eyes as she hugged him tight. "Oh, Nyoko! Look at you! Such a big boy!" she sobbed, rocking back and forth, "Mommy's so proud of you!"
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Posted: Thu Feb 01, 2007 1:14 pm
~::Today's the Day! Training, part one::~
It was bright and early when Kiraboshi woke Nyoko, tickling his ears cheerfully. "Morning, love!" she called, poking at his long sleek tail. He shivered and tugged on his blanket. "Not morning yet, Mama," he replied sleepily to her, eyes shut tightly. "Come on! Get up!" Kira sang, pulling his blankets off his new big boy bed. "First day of training!" she tried again.
Nyoko squealed and shot up from his pillow. "Really, Mama? You're really going to teach me magic?"
Kira purred happily. When she found out he was a water mage three days ago, she began preparing for his lessons on how to handle his new found powers. Since she wasn't a water mage, she took some time to carefully review her books, reading about the different kinds of water maneuvers and picking out her old book of meditation. She thought he was ready to learn now; she herself had begun almost instantly after her second birthday, and he was already well over three.
Kira snapped back to reality as the small boy climbed out of bed and scampered over to his dresser. He pulled on some comfortable clothes and beamed at her. "Ready, Mama."
Kira laughed and tugged on his ear. "How about some breakfast, first?" she asked. His ears drooped. "Oh, alright," he answered, dragging his feet down the hall to the kitchen. How could he eat when he was so excited!?
20 minutes later, the two stood in front of the large lake near Kira's home. Kira had cautioned Nyoko about Blood Lake when he first arrived. Monsters roamed freely inside the lake's dark depths, but were quite harmless when the sun shone. However, the mysterious lake turned crimson red when night fell, and he waves grew fearsome with the monster's movements. Nyoko never strayed far from Kira even in the daylight because of this, and for that, she was glad.
However, now was day, and a time to practice. Kira was carefully explaining to him what a mage was: A creature that possessed the powers of an Elemental force. He promptly asked what her Elemental magic was, to which she replied "Ice." He nodded solemnly and kept quiet as she told him how to relax his mind and body, summoning out the water force that was already flowing silently inside his body.
It was hard to do, sitting there, trying to awaken his dormant powers. He let his mind wander too often, and Kira scolded him for it. He complained, needed to itch, kept wanted to stretch his legs. "You aren't working with me," Kira said, as he wiggled for the umpteenth time, "You need to stop thinking about things; just think about that power inside."
Nyoko sighed and drew in a deep breath. He wasn't TRYING to move, he just couldn't help it. He held his breath, closed his eyes -and had an itch on his tail. He swerved around quickly and scratched, but Kira saw his movement, no matter how quick.
"Oh, Nyo," she tutted, shaking her head, "maybe this is all too much for you. Maybe you aren't old enough."
Nyoko sniffled. "I'm sorry Mama, I'll try harder, I promise. Please, I wanna practice," he begged, tears brimming in his eyes.
Kira smiled and brushed back his hair. "Well, maybe if we try what my mother tried with my brother who couldn't concentrate like you. See, she made him lay down, and she put some music on. He's a water mage, like you, so she played waves crashing -maybe that'll work." She tugged him up and gathered her things. He smiled and followed her back to the cabin, to begin his work anew.
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Posted: Thu Feb 01, 2007 1:20 pm
~:: Today's the Day! Training, part two::~
He drifted off to sleep, the sounds of crashing waves filling his dreams. Water energy poured from his head into his body, rushing through his very veins. The calm stream, the still pool, the raging river, the treacherous sea; they melted into his brain- the different personalities of water. It would be overwhelming to most, the visions, the sounds; but Nyoko slept peacefully, watching the moving liquid silently in his dreams.
Kira smiled from the doorway. She had put him to bed soon after they finished their lesson on meditation breathing. He was amazingly quick on picking up new things, and he didn't disappoint her; his deep breathing was nearly flawless after only a few hours of lessons. He was learning so quickly with his physical self, but she wondered...what if he isn't ready to use his Elemental Powers?
He gave a slow giggle in his sleep. Kira smiled fondly at his wiggling tail. She would do the best she could for him, and the rest was up to him.
The sun left, the moon rose, left and rose. Kira woke Nyoko just after dawn. She had explained to him that it was the best time to work; bright and early, when the body was still rested, yet not too rested.
He yawned and rubbed his eyes. "Mommy Kira? I had a funny dream," he yawned again and wiggled his ears, "I was swimming inna ocean or somet'ing."
Kira gave his head a pet. "That was your Water Energy. Sometimes, I dream about ice...lots of ice." She suddenly looked very thoughtful. "Nyo-chan, were you scared?"
The small cat youkai lowered his ears. "It was kinda scary, Mama...all this water was around me, and I couldn't see any land or even you!"
Chuckling lightly, Kira pulled him to the side of his bed and sat down next to him. "That must be your problem. Honey, you can't be afraid of it. If you fear it, the power will conquer you, and you won't be able to work together. It's your power, love. It can't hurt you unless you let it. You have to control it, but you must do it without fear."
Nyoko's eyes shined. "Really, Mama? I can control it? By myself?" Kira nodded, and put her arm around him. "You have to believe in yourself and accept the great gift that's been given to you. Now, shall we get something to eat and try again?" Nyoko jumped up from his bed, eyes glowing with a fire. "Yeah!" he cried out, racing for his dresser. It was going to work this time! He just knew it!
They two were soon back by the shore of the lake, this time with a new faith. They both settled down to meditate in the soft breeze as the sun soared high into the sky. Kira tickled Nyoko lightly hours later. "Ready to try some mage practice?" she asked. Nyoko stared at her. "But Mommy Kira!" he cried, looking around, "We only just started meditation!"
Kira shook her head, her brown hair playfully bouncing behind her. "You've been silent for over three hours. You want to start making water move, right?"
Nyoko jumped up, eyes glittering much like his adopted mother's were. "Really? Right now? Ok!" He shook with both fear and anxiety, but he believed in himself. And most of all...he knew Kiraboshi believed in him too.
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Posted: Mon Feb 05, 2007 3:56 pm
~::Today's the Day! Training, part three::~
Only moments later, the two stood near the shore, their shoes off and their toes now wet. "Always try to stay in contact with it, at first. Then, you can start calling it from distances, or from no where at all," Kira began, positioning Nyoko in the lake. The water gleefully surged over his ankles and splashed his legs. He giggled. "The water's tickling me, Mama!" he shyly said, pleased. Kira laughed and patted his shoulder. "It's drawn to you. Now, relax, and start your deep breathing."
Nyoko closed his eyes and took a sharp breathe in. Exhaling, he quieted his mind and tried to think of the cool, calm waters beneath his feet. His ears started fidgeting; his tail wiggled. His toes itched and his eye twitched. He thought he heard a dog, thought he smelt fresh baked muffins. No matter how hard he tried, his thoughts drifted away from his Element.
Meanwhile, Kira began to work her plan into action. She wiggled a long tube into the sand beneath the water's surface, and ran it towards the shore. She giggled, knowing her trick might not work, but she was determined to give it a try!
Nyoko finally sighed and opened his eyes. No matter how concentrated he was, he couldn't make-...what? What was that? He gazed alarmingly at the water in front of him, which was bubbling. Suddenly, the spot spewed water out, like a fountain! He jumped backwards in surprise, knocking Kira down. With an "OOMFF," Kira and he landed on their bottoms. He excitedly turned to her. "Mama, Mama, didja see? Didja see what I did?" he asked, waving his arms around.
Kira purred and wrapped him into a hug. "I sure did! I told you you could do it!" Nyoko giggled happily, and turned to face the water again. "I didn't even know I was doing it," he proclaimed, swishing at the water with his hand. "It was real neat!"
"Perhaps...you should try it again?" Kira mumbled, her ears fallen. Nyoko didn't turn around, but nodded happily and closed his eyes.
The sound of the gentle waves filled his ears; he could smell the salty moisture of the lake. Roaring tidal waves flooded into his veins, crashed into his very soul!
The water burbled, groaned and swelled, rose into the air, pulled by an invisible force. It flowed like a geyser into the air, slowed, and finally fell back down. Nyoko jumped up and down with pleasure. "I did it again! Mama, I did it AGAIN!" he shouted, giggling. He flung around and faced Kira.
Tears brimmed in her eyes and her heart swelled. "Oh, Nyoko, you sure did," she whispered, holding out her arms to him. He tilted his head in confusion, but let Kira hold him. "Mama? What's wrong?" Nyoko said, bewildered at why she would cry. She let go and gave him a small smile. "I'm just so proud of you..let's go home now, you've done enough."
Nyoko nodded, suddenly feeling very tired. He scooted back towards shore, when he tripped on something. Hissing lightly, he picked up a long, narrow tubing. He looked questionably at Kira. "What's this?"
Blushing lightly, Kiraboshi knew she had been caught. "Well...let me explain something to you, Nyo-kun. Sometimes, a person doesn't understand their full ability if they don't have enough confidence...I was...um...just giving you a bit."
Eyes widening, Nyoko pointed a finger at Kira. "You made the water go up!?" he cried out, hurt. Kira shook her head quickly, "No, no! Well, only the first time. I blew into the tubing to make the water shoot up, but only the first time! Nyoko, that gave you confidence, and you were able to do it yourself the second time. You make that fountain!"
Nyoko thoughtfully looked up at Kira. "Really?" he said, "I...I guess I did. I felt it that time. Here," he pointed to his stomach. "It felt really weird, but in a good way."
"That's magic," Kira mused, holding out her hand to him. "One of the many magics of this world, Nyoko. The kind that tickle your heart and please your very soul. Now...how about some ice cream?"
Nyoko gladly took Kiraboshi's hand, and as they trotted off together, he knew she was right. Something about the magic made him feel...complete.
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Posted: Mon Feb 05, 2007 4:06 pm
~::Akito the Wolf Youkai, part one::~
Nyoko yawned and stretched in his bed. It was early, just before dawn, but he couldn't sleep. Kiraboshi said she'd take him to meet Akito today! He wiggled in his cozy covers, wondering what he'd be like.
"Mama, Who's that?" Nyoko questioned one day, pointing to a group photo of Kira and two others. He already knew who Chihen was; a hyper, somewhat mischievous Elven-Monkey Youkai Hybrid who usually shared the cabin with Kira. She was off on an adventure somewhere, but he was sure they'd meet eventually.
It was the dark shadow in the back round he was interested in. He couldn't really make out who, or even what, the outline was, but when he asked Kira about it, she gave a blush and picked up the photo. "Hmm, that's Akito. He's a Wolf Youkai," she purred, gazing at the picture. Nyoko tilted his head. "Mama, didn't you say the Wolf Youkai in this forest weren't nice?" he pondered.
Kira winked. "You remembered. Akito is different. He used to be a Wolf King follower, the captain of the guards, actually, but he quit once he found out the Wolf King's real plans. Anyway, he looks after Chihen and me...not that we need it." She reached down and ruffled Nyoko's hair. "Wanna meet him? He's always around, and I'm sure we could find him."
So there Nyoko was, waiting for Kira to wake up. He was so excited; a real Wolf Youkai! He'd heard about how wild and dangerous they were, and cunning too, and he couldn't wait to see him. Besides, he thought, Mama Kira seems to like him a lot!
The smell of toast and bacon jarred him from his daydreaming. Kira was up! He threw the blankets aside and skittled down the hall, pouncing into the kitchen. Kira turned and smiled, "Good Morning. Ready for breakfast?" she asked, putting some bacon on his plate. He didn't sit down, he only stared. "Um...Mommy? Isn't there...something we're going to do today?" he hinted to her.
Kira looked thoughtful. "Are we doing some sort of training today?" she asked, "Or maybe Mage practice?"
Nyoko groaned, "Mama! No teasing! I wanna meet Akito!" He threw a small fit at the table, until Kira gave him a stern glare.
"Calm down. I was only kidding. I know we're going to see him, but not before breakfast, and not in your pjs," she said, pointing to his pajamas. He gave a small squeal and ran back to his room. After dressing, he skipped happily down the hall again and flopped in his seat, grabbing up a piece of bacon and chewing.
Kira rolled her eyes, but knew how he felt. She was excited to see Akito too! She hadn't seen him since perhaps before she found Nyoko, and that was quite some time ago. She had seen glimpses of him as they trained at the shore, though, and she knew he was still stealthily protecting her.
Nyoko burped and giggled. "'cuse me," he mumbled, wiping his mouth. "I'm ready!" he announced happily. Kira sighed, picked up the dishes and quickly washed them. "You're such a brat," she said dramatically, while Nyoko laughed at her. "I know!" he shouted, jumping off his chair and running to the door. "Can we go now?"
Minutes later, Kiraboshi and Nyoko strolled through the trees of Death Forest. Kira's eyes had narrowed, watching for any sign of danger. Nyoko just pranced along, humming. He was finally on his way to meet Akito!
A loud cry sounded out from behind some tall, thorny trees. Kira's eyes widened with alarm as she shoved Nyoko behind her. "Stay," she muttered, cautiously creeping forward. Nyoko stared after her as she disappeared behind the overgrowth.
Kira didn't return. Nyoko waited for what seemed like hours, but still no Kiraboshi. He began to whimper, then cry. He was alone in the forest! What was he going to do?! Sobbing wildly, Nyoko hugged himself and rocked back and forth, crying out, "Mama! Mama! Where are you? Mama!"
Creaks and pops rang out from all around him. Creatures called their eerie shrieks and hoots. He shrank down and huddled into a ball. He was all alone, yet not alone at all!
"MAAAMMAAA!" he suddenly screamed in fear, his heart racing. No one answered. Then..."Shut up, Kid. You'll attract Wolf Youkai, and you don't want that, do you?" barked a harsh voice as a hand flew over Nyoko's mouth. Nyoko's eyes widened; someone had found him, but it wasn't Kira!
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Posted: Mon Feb 05, 2007 4:12 pm
~::Akito the Wolf Youkai, part two::~
Nyoko screamed, thrusting his hands upward and catching the stranger in the jaw. The figure made a soft noise, but otherwise didn't move. "Hey, shut up. You'll blow Kiraboshi's cover," the male growled, tightening his grip on Nyoko's shoulder. Nyoko blinked in surprise. Did he know Mama Kira?
When Nyoko relaxed, the mysterious youkai took his hands away and crouched down next to the shaking feline. His deep yellow eyes showed no kindness as he gazed at the trees, searching for something. Nyoko gulped. The older teen's long silver hair was messily pulled into a tail at his neck, and huge, dog-like ears poked out. Nyoko scooted ever so slightly; was that a dog tail coming from his scruffy jeans? There was only one conclusion, one hope. "Are you...Akito?" he whispered, eyes firmly set on the fangs protruding from the youkai's mouth. The yellow eyes dropped and focused on the small Cat Youkai.
A light nod was his only response; his eyes were back to the trees within a second. He seemed to be looking for something. Nyoko gaped at him. He wasn't at all what he expected! He looked so young, and so handsome! Could he really be a vicious, deadly Wolf Youkai? Akito suddenly turned and stood. Nyoko looked questionably at him...what was that guy doing?
A rustle came from the near-by bush. Nyoko tensed. Akito raised an eyebrow. "Was it a solider, or just a spy?" he asked to the shaking bush.
"Spy," answered the moving greenery. Nyoko's ears twitched. "Mama?" he asked uncertainly. The bush parted and Kira stepped out, smiling lightly with beads of sweat on her pink face. "Hey, babe, you ok?" she asked, opening her arms. Nyoko squealed and raced to her, pouncing into her arms and hugging her tight. "I was so scared!" he whimpered, digging his head into her shoulder.
Kira petted his head tenderly. "I'm sorry. I smelt Wolf Youkai, and I had to figure out why one of those creeps were over here. They usually don't come near the lake unless they're up to no good."
Nyoko pulled away. "Did you get him?" he asked in wonderment. He'd love to see a real bad guy! Kira snickered and stood up, "He fled on winged feet when he saw me chase him. Guess he didn't want to say hi." She winked at Akito. "Did you smell him, too?"
Akito nodded. Confused, Nyoko tugged on Kira's jeans. "I didn't smell anything, Mama," he told her, a bit upset. Kira just smiled. "You'll develop your intense senses later. They'll come. Most dogs and cats have better smelling and hearing than most."
Happy with her response, he smiled. "Someday I'll be like you?" he asked hopefully. Kira nodded. "Toning your senses can be tough, but I'm sure you can get it," she paused and looked at Akito, who was staring almost hypnotically at the tree above him. Kira looked at Nyoko with confusion in her eyes. He shrugged, that wolf was kinda weird, he decided.
"Akito?" Kira asked gently, moving towards the silent wolf. His ears flickered at her voice, but his eyes did not move. Nyoko blinked, a leaf fell on his head! He picked it up and poked at it curiously; there was no wind today.
Kira tilted her head and lightly tugged on Akito's grey, torn shirt. "A-akito?" she whispered again. His ears flickered again, but this time, he moved.
"DOWN!" he shouted, flinging both Kiraboshi and Nyoko to the ground as two large rocks landed in their former position. They were under attack!
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Posted: Mon Feb 05, 2007 4:20 pm
~::Akito, the Wolf Youkai, part three::~
Nyoko shook from head to toe as he buried himself under Kira and Akito's weight. The ground trembled around them as rocks poured from the trees like streams. Dust flew into Nyoko's eyes. He couldn't breath; couldn't think. Cackles and screams rang out amidst the thunder of rocks and arrows bearing down on them. He cried out in fear, Kira's arms wrapped around him tightly. "Mama!" he shouted as an arrow pierced the rock beside him.
He heard the low, deep growl of a Wolf Youkai and felt a heavy weight move. He grinned; those bad wolfies were in trouble now! Akito was gunna get them good! He opened his eyes to take a little peek, and saw, to his great amusement, a scrawny brown-grey Wolf Youkai go sailing over a tree. He almost laughed out loud, but caught himself. It probably wasn't a good idea to laugh when they were in danger!
It was Kira's turn next. She hissed loudly as an arrow lodged itself next to Nyoko's tail. She perked her head up and examined the area. "Stay down," she ordered the kitten as she hoisted herself up and into a protective position.
"Akito, down!" she yelled. His yellow eyes widened and he jumped quickly behind a tree. The other wolves stared blankly at the strange reaction of the tough Wolf Youkai, until one pointed out Kira.
The air turned chilly; her body gave off a soft blue aura that swept around her like a cocoon. Her mouth turned up into a horrible grin. "It isn't too late to run...," she hissed through clenched teeth, raising her hands above her head. The words were to no affect, the stupid wolves just stared at her. Kira shrugged, "I warned you...SHIMOBASHIRA!"
Thousands of tiny, needle-like icicles flew from behind her, heading right towards the frightened demons. They shirked in terror and turned to flee. Kira laughed and flung her hand to the left. The icicles followed suit. Two Wolf Youkai were frozen with fear and succumbed to the tiny daggers first. They fell over with blood curdling screams, never to rise again. Another one tried to climb a tree for cover- he never made it. His body, still stuck on the tree, hung limply as the needles wedged themselves into his back and through his chest.
Three more fell, the ice freezing the blood that would have been spilt. Nyoko watched in horror. He had never seen any of Kira's attacks, but she had told him about them. Shimobashira was her favorite, as well as her second strongest. It was incredible to see her at work. She was completely different!
The last two fell, icicles embedded in their bodies, before Akito strode out from the tree. Kira's aura withered and the needles fell to the ground, useless. She turned, smiled and brushed her hair from her eyes. "Well! That was interesting!" she announced.
Minutes later, as the three were walking back towards the cabin, Nyoko was full of words. "Mommy! Didja see what you did? Didja see them run? They ran, and and I think one PEED himself!" Nyoko broke off to giggle wildly at the notion. Kira just smiled and patted his head. "One day, you'll be able to fight them all by yourself, Nyo," she said proudly, gazing at him. He shook his head. "No...I can't. I'll never be strong like you, mommy." He lowered his head and sniffled lightly. How could he ever fight like Kira did? She was so brave!
Kira gave his shoulder a tug. "Now now, don't speak like that. Everyone has to start somewhere," she reminded him. She glanced at Aktio. "You know, Akito isn't a mage, but he's strong. Maybe he can teach you some survival techniques sometime." She gave Akito a hopeful look. Looking back at Kira, Akito grunted, but didn't say anything. Kira winked at Nyoko. Akito didn't speak much, but he didn't say no!
Kira tucked Nyoko in later that night, snuggling into him before she gave him a kiss. "Good night, my little warrior," she whispered, stroking his ears as his breathing fell into a soft rhythm. He drifted off into his dreams, envisioning blasts of water and tsunamis, forcing his enemies to fall to his feet.
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Posted: Mon Feb 05, 2007 4:22 pm
~::It's Time::~
Kira yawned and rose from the yellow couch. It was nearing midnight, and the tired Cat Youkai decided it was time for bed. She swished her tail and folded the blanket which had lain on her lap as she read from her book of Spells and Incantations. She was trying to find the best starting spell for Nyoko, but after reading the section on already existing water attacks, Kira wondered if he was strong enough to try any of the spells.
Twitching her ears, she gave the living room one last going over. The lights were off and everything was snuggly in its place. Smiling, she made her way to her pink-themed bedroom to undress. She soon appeared in her light rose bed gown and sat on her bed, combing her hair until smooth. She finished up by braiding it tightly.
Wiggling under her warm covers, Kira soon drifted off to sleep.
In her dreams, water poured from the sky in a mystical waterfall from the heavens. Mist rose from the earth; a raging river gushed and bubbled beneath her feet. She felt strange, like something was amiss. She glanced around, searching for the source of her troublesome feelings. But all there was to see was water. Water in the heavens, from the earth…she could even feel the water’s energy circulating in her very being.
“How…odd,” she mumbled to herself as she reached out to touch the mist. She gasped and drew her hand back in surprise as the water drops condensed on her fingertips. “But…this is only a dream, how is it that I can feel this?” she asked herself, pink eyes furrowed with confusion, “It doesn’t make sense.”
Her eye caught movement to her left, and she turned, half expecting her usual dream-people, but was surprised to see Nyoko standing there. Or, at least, she assumed it was Nyoko. His eyes had hardened slightly and his cheeks were thinner, rather than his normal childish ones. He stood up straight and grinned heartily at his adopted mother. “Guess what?” he asked, his silver earring glinting with mist, “I’m ready.”
Kiraboshi woke with a start, sweat pouring down her face. She breathed in and out roughly, trying to grasp her strange and abnormal dream. Could it have been a seeing-dream? A dream that reflected the real world? With a pant, she jumped out of bed. Nyoko!
She burst into his room seconds later, but he wasn’t in his bed. In a panic, she raced towards the bed when she stopped cold. The same, older Nyoko from her dream stood sniffling in a corner. He looked up at her with tears in her eyes. “Mama…are you mad at me?”
Kira looked on at him in shock. “Nyoko…,” she moved over and put her arm around him, “Sweetie, why do you think I’d be mad at you?”
“’Coz I changed again.”
Kira broke into a smile. “Oh, honey. I’m not mad or upset or anything at you. Only proud! Your changing only confirms I was right! You are ready to step up your training! Nyoko…how would you like to learn a water spell?”
Nyoko’s eyes widened. “R-really, Mommy Kira?” he cried out, leaping at her with excitement. “I’ll try my hardest and I know I can do it!” Nyoko hugged her close and sniffed his tears away. “I promise I’ll be brave,” he murmured, nestling into her arms.
Kira stroked his head lightly. “I know you will…I know you will.”
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Posted: Mon Feb 05, 2007 4:24 pm
~:: All Alone? Never! ::~
Nyoko grinned as he sneakily snuck outside. It was nearing dawn; flecks of light twinkled over the tree tops in the forest. There was a light but chilling breeze near Blood Lake, the shimmering waters Nyoko and Kira practiced around. Nyoko had decided, since he had gotten bigger, that he must be able to do magic now! So as the sun rose, (because Kira had told him NEVER to go to the lake at night) he made his way down to the shores of Blood Lake to take up his training by himself.
“Mama Kira will be so proud of me!” he said out loud to himself, settling into the sand. He began his meditation, taking deep breaths in and letting them out slowly. His mind cleared and his body relaxed. He could feel the same, strange sensation he felt before. Kiraboshi had told him it was his water energy circling around his body. He smiled; somehow it just felt right.
His body awoke minutes later, relaxed and energized. Getting up, he tromped over to the shoreline. Water splashed at his toes; the lake’s spray sprinkled his pants. Inhaling deeply, he tried to call to the water as Kira had showed him. The water continued its normal routine, completely ignoring his requests. Sighing, he moved and tried again. “Come on, come on…,” he muttered, eyes closed and body clenched. He finally opened his eyes. “I…still can’t do it.” Tears sprang to the young cat’s eyes.
“You would be better off practicing with someone, kid,” a male voice rang out from behind Nyoko. The Cat Youkai jumped and spun around. His eyes grew big and he hurriedly wiped the tears from them. “Akito!” he said with surprise, “what are you doing here?”
The silver haired Wolf Youkai gave Nyoko a questioning glance as he sat down on a rock. “Could ask you the same. Kiraboshi know you are out here?”
Nyoko giggled sheepishly and looked down, moving some sand with his toes. “Erm…not exactly,” he admitted, “but she wasn’t awake yet, and I thought…,” his voice trailed off. Suddenly, his reasons for being out here sounded stupid.
“You thought you’d be a big boy and learn spells all by yourself, right?” Akito asked, a harsh tone in his voice. Nyoko looked up and gulped - Akito looked mad!
“Look, Kiraboshi wants you to learn to protect yourself using your magic, yes, but not if you‘re crazy enough to try it alone. You could get hurt. And I know firsthand how dangerous mage training is. If you don’t know what you are doing, you could tear your body apart. Get it?“ Akito stood up and adjusted his worn grey shirt. His muscles flexed as he moved to Nyoko’s side. “Learning to use spells just because you want to impress someone never works,” he said, tone softening, “You have to want it for a better reason.”
A cry blared out from the cabin. Kira flung open the cabin door in her pink bathrobe. “Nyoko?!” she called, looking around for him. When she spotted the two, she began rushing towards them.
Akito rustled Nyoko’s hair. “Maybe the reason is right in front of you,” he said, watching Kira’s frantic race. He turned and began making his way back into the forest. Akito held up his hand in farewell as Kira neared. Huffing, the cat girl flung her arms around Nyoko. After giving him a huge squeeze, she waved after Akito. “Thank you, Akito!” she called out…but the wolf was already gone. She sighed and turned back to Nyoko. “Sweetheart, what are you doing out here? Are you alright?” she said with concern. Kira held him close and petted his head.
Nyoko suddenly realized what Akito was talking about. He threw his arms around Kiraboshi, the one person he loved, the one person who loved him as well. The one person he wanted to protect.
“I’m fine, Mom…I’m fine.”
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Posted: Mon Feb 05, 2007 4:25 pm
~:: Congratulations, Nyoko! part one ::~
A gray-blue bird flew over the wide, babbling brook and headed for it’s treetop home. Nyoko watched it land on a sturdy branch and hop inside it’s nest as he munched away on a sandwich. He smiled happily; Kiraboshi had taken him to a river just down the way to have a picnic - and to practice some magic! He glanced around looking for her. He saw her, back turned to him, fiddling with something in her hands.
“Mommy Kira?” he called, tilting his head, “Whatcha doing?”
Kira turned around. Her eyes were covered by a blindfold and she held a bow in her hands. “Just a bit of practice, darling,” she stated, drawing an arrow from her bag and fitting it to the arrow rest. She drew the bowstring back and let the arrow fly.
Nyoko’s jaw dropped as his eyes followed the arrow’s flight. He gasped in shock as it embedded itself in a tree trunk 25 yards away.
“Wow! That was great!” he shouted, jumping up from the picnic blanket. Kira smiled and tugged her blindfold down. She squinted at the arrow. “Eeh, not too bad. It’s a bit lower than I was aiming, though,” she admitted, untying the cover and sticking it in her pocket.
The young cat boy continued to stare. “Will…will you teach me?” he murmured, mesmerized. Kira looked over at him and giggled. “I thought you wanted to learn how to move water?” Kira gave a wink as he stumbled. “Yes! I do!” Nyoko gave a little dance. “Mama Kira, I wanna learn it all!”
Setting down her bow and quiver of arrows, she grinned. “Then we better get started!”
A while later, after Nyoko and Kira had done a bit of meditation, the two stood at the edge of the brook and gazed down into it’s shimmering waters. Nyoko was in awe; the water was so clear he could see the small fishes swimming at the bottom! He giggled and pointed. “See the fish?” he asked. Kira nodded, but didn’t say anything. She was thinking.
Finally, she said, “Ok, Nyo, let’s try something different. I want you to try and pull the water to you, instead of trying to move it in another direction. Now, remember we talked about the flow of water?”
Nyoko nodded solemnly. “River water always flows towards the ocean,” he announced proudly, “And you told me the closest ocean waaaas…,” he paused a moment to think about it. Which way was south-east? He remembered Kira pointing it out when they were at the cabin, but they took so many twists and turns, he didn’t know which way was which!
Kiraboshi grinned at his bemused face. “South-east is that way,” she said, answering his thoughts by pointing left and up. “We’re facing south right now.”
“Yeah, yeah!” shouted Nyoko happily. “So the river is gunna try and go that way!”
Kira nodded. “Sure will. Now, never try and go against the water’s flow, remember?” When Nyoko nodded, she pointed to the creek. “Stand in the middle, and try and draw the water towards you.”
Nyoko did as he was told, wading into the middle of the water flow and standing still. He closed his eyes and concentrated hard. This wasn’t like the strong, wild water of the lake near their cabin. It was soft, gentle…nothing to fear at all. He began purring lightly; the water was so calm. It was like a blanket, wrapping him up in the song of it’s flow.
Kiraboshi, tucking back a strand of her brown hair, smiled. Before, Nyoko had been…well, afraid of the water. After talking with Akito, the Wolf Youkai, she had figured it out: he wasn’t ready for the lake. So, here they were, alongside a gently rushing creek, and it really did make the difference to the small cat. He seemed happy, which is exactly how a mage should be when in its element.
“Ok, Nyoko! Give it a go,” she shouted from the bank. Nyoko opened an eye and nodded. Slowly, he began calling the water.
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Posted: Mon Feb 05, 2007 4:27 pm
~:: Congratulations, Nyoko! part two ::~
Swirls appeared in the water behind the kitten. He gulped; something strange was happening inside of him. His insides, they felt so warm. It was almost as if, all along, something was missing, and now he was finally complete. A low rumble came from his throat -he was purring. A smile streaked across his face.
Slowly, drop by drop, the water stopped flowing. It spun around him, nuzzling his body. It was as if he was creating an invisible dam that prevented the water from flowing downstream. But Kira knew better. Nothing was stopping the water but Nyoko’s own will. The teacher looked on his work, noticing his control over the water was getting increasingly easier to handle. Nyoko had finally accepted the fact that he was indeed a water mage…and a good one at that!
Suddenly, the water flooded downstream. It raced past the tired little mage, burbling as it retook its course to the sea. Nyoko sighed with exhaustion. Kira jumped some rocks and reached out her arm for him. “C’mon in, Nyo. You did a great job, and you deserve a rest.” She tugged him back to the shore and plopped him down on the blanket. Winking, Kira handed him some berries and a thermos of milk. “Here ya go! This should get a bit of your energy back,” she said, patting dry his tail and ears. The small cat turned and looked up at her with big, sad eyes. “Mama Kira,” he whimpered, “How come it stopped? I…well, I thought I was doing it good.”
Kira glanced at him in surprise. “And you did! It was marvelous!” she exclaimed, “but what do you expect? You ran outta energy. I was so surprised you kept it up so long!”
Nyoko appeared taken back. “R-really? But…I don’t get it,” he said confusedly. Kira snorted and slapped her knee. “Well, you don’t except to be able to control it forever, do you?” When Nyoko didn’t say anything, Kira smiled and pulled him up on her lap.
“See, it’s like this,” she started, pushing back a piece of hair from his eyes, “Everyone has energy inside of them, right? Well, with mages, when it emerges, we transform it into the kind of power we use. So, when your energy is made, it becomes water energy. Mine turns into ice energy. My friend Chihen? Hers becomes wind energy. That’s why we’re able to use these elements, because it’s in our very body. Following me so far?”
Nyoko gave a slight nod. He did understand most of it, anyway. Kira gave a little giggle, but continued. “So, when we use a spell, or do something that requires the use of energy, we have to draw on the energy inside our bodies. That energy isn’t infinite. It gets used and wears out. That’s why the water stopped listening to you. You didn’t have the energy to wield it anymore.”
Nyoko was in awe. He wasn’t quite sure he knew what Kira meant anymore. “So…but, you mean…I won’t be able to use my water powers anymore?” How confusing this energy thing was!
Laughing, the cat girl tickled his nose. “No, silly. This energy will be with you all your life. You can use it again, but first, you need to make more of it. Meaning: rest. Once you practice more, and train hard, you’ll gain the ability to make energy faster. And how to use the least amount of it for the maximum outcome.”
Nyoko smiled. “So, after a bit of rest, I can do it again?” he asked. When Kira nodded, he jumped up. “Oh, Yay!” he shouted, jumping about. Without warning, the little cat suddenly fell. Kiraboshi stretched out her arms and grabbed him up. “Remember what I said about you having no energy right now?” she said with a frown. He chuckled weakly and sat down again. “Sorry,” he muttered. Kira shook her head but gave him a big smile. Kittens! She thought.
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