.Devil Inside. [Mature, Shiranui, continued]

Momiji didn't respond to her comment, he didn't have too. Even Ayame and Shigure listened to her, for a moment as she told them what they all already knew, that they suffered. Each suffered in a different way but there was not one person in the zodiac that didn't feel come kind of pain. Momiji tilted his head and looked up at her as she seemed to protest his arguments. Momiji shook his head. "You don't get is do you?" Momiji asked. "One, This wasn't any one persons fault, " He told her as he held one finger in the air, looking at her with a steady gaze. "In fact i'm the only one who could foretell the results when i stepped in. Aki didn't know what he was doing, I know he's a nice person he just... wasn't himself." Momiji told her, possibly the only one in the room who had a mind open enough to defend him when two of the people he loved were in front of him hurt because of him. He raised another finger, "Second, Harui may of been pushed to the edge, but it wasn't Aki's fault, he didn't know Haru would turn black. Besides even though Haru's gotten better he still goes black for reasons most people would see as small. Anyone would of gotten upset at what Aki said." Momiji pointed out. "And again it's not his fault." Momiji told her before raising a third finger. "Third Kyo was being nice and protecting me even if he won't admit it." Momiji giggled, Kyo protesting from the corner as if on cue. "Like hell, you could use a few bruises to calm down that annoying voice of yours." Kyo told him, Momiji giggled as if his point had been proven. "And finally fourth," Momiji told her as he pulled all three fingers down, curling his fist in a small ball. "I was glad i could help Aki, and kept Haru from doing something that he would regret. He's never killed anyone despite his anger and I want it to stay that way." Momiji told her with a small smile, "And that's why it doesn't matter if i got a LITTLE hurt in the process, i was able to help the people I cared about, I don't want anyone else to suffer, even you. Ok?" He told her as he did his eyes seemed to peer right into hers and if seeing everything, right through her lie. Of course he didn't know what she had been through, but he knew pain like that pain she felt and he seemed to know the pain she was in and what would make it worse. He seemed to read her emotions and sorrows.

As Ayame broke in Momiji broke the connection laughing a bit at Ayame and when he turned back to Ceres it was the usual expression he usually wore, cure and carefree, though everyone knew better. "Mhm!!" He told her with a slaugh at her question of disbelief. "He owns his own store and he sews everything by himself and this nice maid helps him get their customers ready to go. He makes good money." Momiji told her with a smile, Kyo raising his head from it's positions in his arms, only one eye visible under his orange lock of hair. "You can that but i have doubts about his store... some of those costumes will get him arrested one day..." Kyo growled putting his head back down. Despite his disturbing words Momiji seemed to give them no heed as he sat down and rested his head gingerly on Haru's shoulder. Ayame took center stage once again as he stood up, climbing on top of the table confidently. "You may say that Kyonkichi but you can't deny you would love to see Tohru in a princess dress like my beloved Yuki did. My shop is about dreams, where they can get away form the cruel world and escape into their fantasies!" Ayame declared, his forehead dramatically rested on one hand, though it didn't last very long as he continued. "For example, many people wish they could be an angel, have the grace and beauty of an angel." He told her, leaning forward and grabibing her hand when she wasn't expecting it and pulling her up onto the table. "But to do that they need the proper attire, an angel can't go around wearing a school uniform, or jeans can they?" Ayame asked, not even waiting for a response. "Of course not! Therefor my store allows for dreams to cone true." He told her with a smile as he leaned as close as he dared to her, which was fairly close considering all his years of practice. "And so i have a question for you, my angel. You are every woman and man's wish, If you're so confident I ask what is the wish of the wished?" He asked her. Ayame smiled simply at her demands. "I'm offering an invitation to come to my friends host club." He told her, as if he hadn't before, obviously not getting the point of her question.

Ayame smiled as he listened to her clicking his tongue. "Now, Now...." He sighed. "Do you really expect me to believe that?" He asked her, clearly his mind not on the same page. "What kind of talk is that, It's ok if you're inexperienced, but of you're looking for respect, do you really think people look at modesty in respect?" Ayame challenged her, swinging back into his student council when he argued with Deans and superintendents about similar topics. "You are living the fairy tale now," He laughed at her. "Do you think that when people read the fairy tails they respect the princess who hides away never living? Or the prince who dirtied his hands with the blood of the dragon to save her?" Ayame asked her. "Are people drawn to the Queen who sits in her chair and castle window, or the queen of the amazon who lives in the rainforest's and hunts for prey?" He asked her, clearly lost in images in his head as he spoke dramatically, his hands and hair never staying in the same spot for more than a few seconds. As her acceptance he smiled, "And that's how it's done, jumping right into it. "We'll have to be sure to take her on the days the guys are working." Ayame told Shigure who nodded, "Oh definitely, though maybe starting out on a regular girls night might prepare her more." Shigure muttered, his voice soft but clearly meant to be heard. Ayame turned to look at her, his response clearly not what the Ceres and Aya though it would be. "Yes, but how long as you known her? Not that long right? Even if now her mind is focused on one man, the curiosity of ANY teenage girl is part of their nature, and stronger then they can fight." He told her. It wasn't a secret that Aya liked Yuki but his words seemed to have grown an ironic double meaning that none of them understood yet, especially Ayame. "Well you must not leave out the teenage boy." Shigure pointed out, Ayame lowering himself on the table as Ceres fell away, ending sitting on the table in front of Shigure. "But I hardly need to explain that one do i?" He asked, the two of them once again caught up in their own world that wasn't meant for anyone else.

Momiji looked at Momiji who had finally escaped Ayame's clutches. "Mhm! He is!! He always knows what to do!" Momiji grinned, "Even though sometimes he's a bit of a party pooper..." Momiji sighed to himself, remembering the times he had come to Yuki, Kyo and Tohru's school festival and he had been instructed to come with. "One time I got a cold and my dad was at home so Hatori let me stay with him and was checking on me all night to make sure I was ok!" Momiji laughed, hinting at but telling nothing about his story, or the fact that Momiji hadn't been home as well was because of Hatori who had erased his mothers memories. "He always takes care of us! Right Haru?" He asked the silent cow who was trying to conserve energy as he leaned against the wall. He nodded, sensing Ceres comfortability. He always does what's best for his family." He agreed, leaning his head back to once again watched everyone, from Ayame and Shigure to Kyo moping in the corner. "Kyo was still in shock when she addressed him, His eyes snapping back into focus. "And you look a little pale." He told her evenly, his tone aggressive, but not harsh like it had been earlier,w ho when addressing Ayame and Shigure. He moved around a little bit, testing the strengths and weaknesses of his body. He had to admit he hadn't expected too much considering how weak she looked already but it was more than he had thought, he could at least move now. Momiji tilted his head as he picked his head up off of Haru and moved away from Ceres, even as she followed him he contined to move at least out of arms reach as he slid his shirt off, Haru grimacing from the wall. "I'm sorry Momiji....." He said softly, Momiji turned to look at him, blonde hair falling into his face as he smiled and brushed it away. "It's ok Haru! I know you couldn't control it." He told him, as he took the time to stop Cere's hands falling onto his side, Momiji jumping away but not before she sent the little energy she had into his body. Momiji sighed, looking down at the gashes which had already started to scar now. "She didn't listen to me..." He sighed, turning to look at Aya, startled as she addressed his wounds. "Eh..." He said started, coving it up with his shirt but too late, having been found out a second time. He watched her leave, smiling and waving at her from the doorway. "Bye Aya!!! Tell Ceres good-bye too!!!" He said with a smile as she disappeared from view.

"You know i hate in intrude... but why didn't you show her the rest?" Shigure asked Momiji who froze, turning to look at him. "There isn't any more!" He told him with a smile. Shigure sighed. "You slid across the ground right? Which means you're whole right side was injured... your chest, legs, feet and head." Shigure told him, Momiji standing their guiltly as Shigure moved on. "Besides Haru's movements are fairly easy to predict because they'reall similar...." "Yeah..." Haru sighed, Kyo snickering lightly before Shigure continued. "Of course those who can't beat him are on his level." He added, Kyo starting to yell but not one was listening as Shigure ignored Kyo. "The way that Haru hits would send most people strait to the ground, but you're small and light." Shigure pointed out, Momiji meeting his eyes but not saying a word. "In the angle that he hit when he hit you you would of gone rolling, not just landed on the right side." He pointed out, Momiji sighing as he lifted his arm to scratch the side of his head. When he'd took his shirt off he had still kept it over his left shoulder which had hit the ground first before turning over to his side and both of his thighs had been scratched up along with a couple bumps on his head hidden beneath his hair. Haru seemed to be staring Momiji intently in both concern and embarrassment that he had done it. "Yeah... there was a little more but I don't want her to use all her strength, she's going to need it..." Momiji sighed, turning to look at Haru with a smile. "Don't worry about me! you focus on getting better, ok Haru?" He asked, still with a smile on his face as he sat down at the table.



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Hatori blinked, though it hardly mattered if his eyes were open or closed, it was talk anyway. As he looked up at the clear sky thousands of stars shined down on them. Being a little isolated from the city they could see a little more than most of the city, but it was a still a city and the smaller start were still outshone by the rows of street lamps that gave off a yellow glow. He took a long drag from the cigarette dangling between his fingers, the end glowing bright orange as he heard a soft pad of footsteps behind him. "Master Hatori?" The voice of one of the maids quietly calling for him. He could hear her coming over to the door, "What is it?" He asked, as he did the smoke was released from his mouth. Behind him he could hear her approaching the open door to the outside and could feel her peering at him. "Akito requested to see you." She told him, Hatori lifted the cigarette to his mouth again, taking an even longer drag before putting it out on the porch, letting the smoke leave slowly before he stood up, adjusting his white robe as he turned to look at her. "Does he now?" He asked, the maid nodding as Hatori walked over to his desk, grabbing a pill pottle and sliding it into one of the front pockets. "He also told me to tell you that the person you're waiting for is on the grounds." She said nervously. Hatori turned to look at her. "Person i've been... waiting for?" He asked, the maid nodding. Hatori close dhis eyes, letting out a soft hiss as he realized who that 'someone' was. She's early... He though, Yuki's pale hand reached out towards him in desperation as a piece of him broke through to darkness to beg to him, only to be quickly swallowed back up. Hatori rubbed his temples, turning to look at the picture of Kana on his shelf. Forgive me Yuki... He begged before turning to look at the maid. "Very well, I want you to wait here, when she gets here show her to where i'm at." He told her the maid opening her mouth in surprise. "To Akit..." "Yes, Hatori cut in before walking past her and out the door leaving the maid speechless at the idea of sending someone to Akito like that. Once he was out of sighed Hatori sighed, looking up at the ceiling, hard wood in place of what had been stars a minute ago. "You shouldn't of come..." He sighed to himself, unballing his fist and walking over to Akito's room.
The maid looked around nervously, the room filled with shadows as she found a spot in a char on the far side of the room. What did he mean send them to where he was at? That's sending them to Akito? She was fairly new, she knew nothing about the secret held in this house, only that there was a secret. What she did know was Akito, and he was someone she wouldn't want to meet up with. Maybe it's just someone from the inside? She thought, but the concept was still scary. As she heard footsteps she looked at the door, caught off guard as a young woman walked in, a sudden alarm going up. She found herself speechless as she recognized the girl who had been here a few days ago... during the incident. After a minute she was able to grasp control, not even wanting to know whay Hatori wanted to see her with Akito. "Excuse me," She said softly as she stood up, walking over to her. "You aren't by chance here to see Hatori are you?" She asked, her voice was level and composed despite her whirling mind, wondering what was going on.

The change in Akito's attitude was instantaneous, no warning, no legitimate cause for the drastic change at once. For the Sohma family it was't uncommon, she was fine one minute, violent the next. Hatori listened, taking every word in though it was nothing he hadn't heard before, every member of the family had heard it. Akito smirked at her comment, obviously her words having no effect on her, not in her head. "BLAMING MYSELF?! ARE YOU REALLY THAT NAIVE TO BELIEVE THAT IT'S THAT SIMPLE?!" She laughed, Her laughter cold enough to send shivers down the spine of even the bravest men. "I THOUGHT YOU WERE AT LEAST SMARTER THAN THAT!" She taunted, leaning in closer to Aya. "Let me TELL YOU SOMETHING," She told her, her voice had lowered slightly though was possibly just as dangerous if not more. "This is OUR fate, our CURSE. He can't FIGHT his curse any more than YOU CAN. That DEMON living inside of you, your FAMILY nothing you do can change it, your families still going to try to KILL you, that creature TAUNT you. This is Yuki's FATE, his destiny. He is one of US, he is part of our BANQUET that will continue FOREVER. We will dine and have fun with one another. People outside, DON'T BELONG." She hissed, her voice both loud and quite at the same time, somethings just loud enough for her to hear, other times echoing through the house. "What happened when YOU tried to go against fate?" Akito asked, mocked as she circled her, her footsteps soft and kimono dragging gross the ground, the red around the edges and butterflies seeming to take flight in the candlelight as she moved. "Hm? Tried to stand up for yourself and you're family tried to kill you, or how abou your brother?" She mocked. "He tried to go against the males nature your brother picked up from you're family and look where it got him, not to mention a portion of MY family." She told her, clearly nothing went un-noticed in Akito's family with out her knowing. She knew everything, required to know everything, and Hatori kept pretty good tabs about what was going on along with received most of it from Shigure anyway. She pulled against Kureno's grip, the older male holding her as close to him as he could even though she kept pulling away, fighting back more and more as she got angrier.

"PEOPLE WHO GO AGAINST FATE WILL BE PUNISHED. I COULD CALL THE WAY YOU'RE FAMILY WORKS BARBARIC, THE WAY THE KILL WITHOUT THINKING!" Akito challenged her, with each word, each sentence she fell deeper into her ideas, her thoughts. "AT LEAST WE DON'T KILL! YOU THINK I'M TO BLAME?! THE WORLD IS TO BLAME!! EVERYONES TO BLAME! YOUR TO BLAME." She sneered. "YOU TRY TO ACT SO HIGH AND MIGHTY!! YOU THINK YOU'RE THE INNOCENT VICTIM? YOU THINK THAT YOU'RE THE HERO HERE? IF YOU HADN'T GOTTEN INVOLVED YUKI WOULD OF NEVER GONE THROUGH ANY OF THIS!! IF YOU HAD STAYED AWAY HE NEVER WOULD OF GOTTEN ATTACHED!!" Akito pointed out, trying to get away from Kureno, as she felt another presence she glanced behind her, though she didn't have to, she knew who it was. "Sorry.. i took so long..." Shigure grunted as he glanced at Hatori, then Kureno. "Sorry Aya, it's nothing personal..." He told her, confirming her suspicions as Akito's hand raked across his face. "LET GOT OF MY THIS... THIS BITCH MAKES ME SICK!!" She screamed, turning back around to looka t her. "YOU DID GET INVOLVED!! EVER AFTER YOU KNEW WHAT WOULD HAPPEN! ONCE YOU LEARNED OF YOU'RE FATE YOUR THE ONE WHO COULDN'T STAY AWAY!!" She told her as she managed to pull herself forward, Shigure and Kureno falling with her as she got close to her face. "You think he couldn't live without you?" She laughed, as if the notion were naive, as if she knew nothing, Shigure and Kureno pulled her back as she laughed at the notion as if it were the craziest thing she had ever heard. "YOU THINK YOU WOULD COME IN AND MAKE EVERYTHING ALL BETTER?! YOU THINK YOU'RE THE GOOD GUY?!" She screamed, her whole body shaking anger coursing though her veins, she couldn't even feel Shigure's and Kureno's hold on her anymore, just a pull everything she tried to move. "I THINK THE REAL ONE WITH A GOD COMPLEX HERE IS YOU!!" She snarled at her. "I DON'T CALL MYSELF GOD! I WAS GOD BEFORE I WAS BORN, IN THE WOMB OUR FAMILY KNEW WHO I WAS!! I CREATED THIS FAMILY, I GAVE THEM WHAT THE HAVE, I AM THEIR GOD!! YOU'RE JUST A BROKEN GIRL WHO'S TRYING TO PLAY GOD BECAUSE HER OWN FAMILY WANTS TO KILL HER!" Akito loved in pure amusement, this girl... she disgusted her.

"STAY AWAY FROM MY FAMILY!! WE WERE BETTER OFF WITHOUT YOU!!! YUKI WAS FINE WITH SHIGURE AND THAT DISGUSTING CAT, DO YOU THINK HE NEEDED YOU?!" She asked, her anger and sarcasm fading into fear and sorrow. "YOU ARE NOTHING! YOU'RE WORTHLESS1 IF IT WEREN'T FOR YOU YUKI WOULD BE AT SCHOOL!! IF HE NEVER HEALS IT'S YOUR FAULT!!! YOU'RE THE ONE WHO DESTROYED OUT HAPPINESS!! OUR BANQUET!! WERE WERE HAVING FUN BEFORE YOU SHOWED UP!! WHO ARE YOU...WHO ARE YOU..." Akito struggled as she kicked Shigure who momentary lost grip, Akito's free hand clawed at Kureno who was doing his best to hold onto her. her vision was blurred as tears of fear welled up. "YOU ARE YOU TO TRY AND TAKE IT ALL AWAY?!?!?!" Akito shouted, shaking her head over and over again. Hatori bent his head, She hasn't been this upset in a while... he thought to himself, knowing that very few parties if any were going to make it out uninjured. Its Ok if i'm cold as snow..it's ok if they hate me...She is strong and maybe, in another life things would of played out differently... Hatori resolved to himself, turning his blank stare away from Aya, his emotionless eyes turning instead to Akito as she broke away and she kicked and clawed at Aya. "YOU ARE...YOU ARE...NOTHING!!! I SHOULD OF LET YOU'RE PARENTS KILL YOU!! I TOLD THEM TO KILL YOU!!! I INTERFERED TO PROTECT YOU AND THIS IS THE THANKS?!?!" She shouted. "YOU SHOULDN'T BE HERE!! GO AWAY!! GO AWAY AND DISAPPEAR FOREVER!! HATORI!" She cried, as she was pulled away turning to the doctor, who's work had been interrupted by by Akito seconds later. her long thin fingers still gripping Aya's hair and arm as if her life depended on it. "HATORI!!! PLEASE!!!" She cried, her fingers digging deeper into Aya's skin as she transformed under her hand. Even after she pulled away, her voice roaring her grip on the hald left in her hands didn't loosen and the fingers that had drawn blood from Aya's arm dug into the palm of it's owner, Akito's hands shaking and nails digging into her palm. "Akito..." Kureno said softly, without hesitation reaching forward, prying Akito's fingers from her palm and putting his hand in hers instead, Akito's nails now digging deep into Kureno's skin instead of her frail skin. Even so, his face didn't flinch, even as she drew blood, holding her hand and using the other arm to hold her back with Shigure.

Akito didn't seem fazed by Ceres appearance or threat, still trying to get her, to pull away. "AND YOU!! YOU'RE THE REASON OF ALL THIS!! I WISH WOULD HAD BEEN KILLED LONG AGO WHEN YOU WERE SUPPOSED TO DISAPPEAR!" Akito screamed. Even with Akito yelling when Ceres challenged Hatori a brief stillness interrupted only by Akito's screams seemed to spread across the room, as if she had mentions something she shouldn't have. Hatori, already frozen looked at her, his eyes hard, he was still in the same position he had stopped in before interrupted erasing Aya's memories. For a long second they stared at each other, hers in challenge, and Hatori's in a lack of emotion. Even now he didn't move, and for a long moment is looked like her words were going to roll of off him like oil rolled off of a wet cup. Their eyes were locked, and for a second it looked like he wasn't going to respond. "Kana...." He said simply, his voice still strangely at lack of emotion, though it was more difficult to know if that lack of emotional tone was due to a lock of emotion or a suppressing of emotion. "Kana was a good person that got involved in our family." He said, his voice still, behind him Akito laughed. "She never belonged." She hissed to Hatori who seemed to take the cruel words in as if it were nothing. "She was bright spirit, a candle shining in the darkness.... but the wick ran out." He told Ceres, his eyes still locked with hers, his eyes and voice were still even and level but was there something hiding behind them? Was there a hint of turmoil? It was hard to tell. "She didn't belong," He repeated Akito's words as he watched Ceres. "And when talking to Akito, I was wounded and lost the vision in one eye." He told her, leaving out the gruesome details that reflected what was going on now, they could put the pieces together if they wanted. "Kana she... blamed herself, she got sick and almost died of guilt." He told Ceres, pausing for a moment. Was it to collect himself? or just because didn't care. "I saved her." He said simply, as if it were as easy as that. "With my own two hands I erased all her memories of us, or me and our love, our passion." He said, the last two words contradicting what she had just said. His eyes had softened but only slightly, his voice fluctuating a little more, but not much. "Our world, if not for others... Akito is our God, it's not just a title, it's a bond each of us has to her, the spirits crying out for her..." He told her, putting it into perspective. "If Akito wants someones memories erased I will do it, whether it's to save that person, or to save our family from more pain." He told her, "If it's Momiji's mother, Yuki's friends, Kana, Tohru or you, this is my burden. Its my duty to keep this family safe when Akito senses danger, no matter how much pain it causes or how much hatred I receive."

Akito, who had clamed down slightly, at least was not pulling as hard away from the males that held her, turned to glare at Ceres. "I am not you're god." She hissed, "I don't belong to this world, I never did!! NEVER!!" She screamed her voice raising as she started to pull harder, for a second the males unprepared as her arms slid through their hands before they tightened their hold, trying to rein her back in. "BUT I AM THE GOD OF THIS FAMILY!! I'M THE REASON WE'RE TOGETHER!! I'M THE REASON THAT WE HAVE A BANQUET!! IT'S ME!! I AM THEIR GOD, THEY CAN NOT DENY ME NO MATTER HOW HARD THEY MAY TRY! NO MATTER HOW HARD THEY TRY TO BREAK THEIR CURSE THEY'RE FATE THEY WILL ALWAYS BELONG TO ME AND WE WILL ALWAYS HAVE OUR BANQUET!! FOREVER AND EVER AS WE ALWAYS HAVE!!!" Akito screamed, not seeming to hear or care about Ceres question as she tried to pull away again. Hatori was once again still. Akito had gone back, she was still talking, she didn't want her memories erased as she had a second ago, she was talking again. Hatori took a slow breath It shouldn't of happened like this... He thought to himself as he watched Akito and Ceres. I could of done it before this happened, before Akito fell into darkness and Aya started fighting back... it would of been easier if we'd just done it the normal way.. He thought to himself as he watched the too of them. true to his statement he was waiting, waiting for the word, waiting to protect his family. Kana, i'm sure you're very happy now, Aya would be happier if she didn't remember too i'm sure. Not have to worry about this... everyone is happier when they forget, it's our curse to bear those memories... He told himself as he tried to chill the feelings he'd had in the hallway, the weariness. He didn't like to draw this out, he was rather do it, and let her go about her merry way. "I AM GOD!" Akito shouted again, the idea of losing her title terrified her, what was she if she wasn't god? She was alone, with no one around her. That wasn't her, it couldn't be, not again. "IT WAS MYSPELL THAT MADE OUR PROMISE REAL!! IT'S THROUGH MY POWER WE CAN STAY TOGETHER FOREVER!!!!" Akito shouted, trying to get at Ceres, obviously having no intention of not touching her, for one so thin and frail she seemed to have unlimited energy to fight like the did against two grown men. Hatori touched the pills in his pocket, just to makes sure they were still there because Akito would need them as soon as this was over..

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Kyo sighed, scratching the back of his neck as he stared at the large gate to the Sohma's main estate. It's been a long time since I've been here... He sighed to himself as pain shot through his arm, remembering he wasn't healed yet. He grumbled to himself, maybe he should just go back home, he had come here on a whim, he had followed Aya's presence, having a feeling she was going somewhere he shouldn't and here he was. I haven't been welcome here since... well since ever... He thought to himself, the house having bad memories for Kyo just as it did for Yuki. I haven't been back here since i escaped... He pointed out, as he looked at the tall gate, solid and intimidating. "She probably just came to see Yuki or something so i'm not sure what point there is for me going in...[/i] he thought to himself with a sigh as he looked around. All around him the outside family was watching him curiously, most of them didn't even know who he is but people were usually inside or outside the gates where Akito lived, not wait outside. Not to mention my wounds are probably attraction attention anyway... He thought to himself, taking a deep breath as he shook his head. "I shouldn't of come...[/i] He thought to himself as he turned around and started to walk away. However, the cat had other ideas, the spirit fought, protested as it tried to pull him back. Kyo sighed, stopping and looking up at the sky in frustration. "I liked it before you had a mind of your own..." He muttered, away people were watching him 'talk to himself.' Kyo growled, turning around and walking back to the gates. "Fine, but if nothing happens i'm leaving right away..." he told the spirit, not caring if he was talking to himself, knocking on the front gate, after a second thedoor opening. Though he wasn't welcome they could deny him access as a possessed member, unless of course Akito told them not too, but he obviously hadn't mentioned anything today so he got in without any trouble, everyone on the other side of the gate looking at him curiously. Kyo sighed as he looked around, the gate closing behind him. "I'm trapped in here...[/i] He muttered to himself as he looked around the still grounds, even if it was the 'inside' of the estate it was still pretty large as he sighed, "I don't know what i'm doing here..." he muttered as he walked inside.

‘What type of dysfunctional family Am I dealing with?’ Looking in to the familial unit from an outsider’s perspective caused foreign emotions to bloom in the Tennin’s feral heart. ‘This is how the real Akito Sohma behaves? Her attitude constantly changes from calm to enraged without any warning. How can anyone deem her fit for leadership?’ The Celestial Maiden contemplated silently ’I see.’ Now she understood why most of the family members had an undying obedience for the insane leader; Akito had a special gift for transforming harmless words into double-edged projectiles. Every single acidic statement Aya had hurled earlier at the woman appeared to have little affect on the dynamic female, however spoken words often cut deeper than intended. Was the furious zodiac leader scheming more ways of breaking her descendent into tiny pieces? What was she trying to prove by shouting grating realities straight into Aya’s face? ’Denial….’ That single word resonated profoundly in Ceres’ conscious mind ’They’re both in denial…..both are trying to hold onto precious resources.’ Two different sides of one coin. Ying and Yang. While, the Sohma leader tried holding onto centuries of tradition; Aya struggled wildly to keep valuable memories and feelings from being dispersed. Would her host succeed in warding off Hatori’s power to erase minds? Possibly not, after all Ceres herself wasn’t exactly certain if Celestial powers were enough to negate his hypnotic techniques; nor was she willing to place herself in a dangerous situation trying to test out impulsive theories. What else could an angel do? Keep negotiating with stubborn adults well set in their ways? Or attempt to distract Akito Sohma from remembering the designated task at hand? ’Distraction should work…..I can’t afford to let her calm down or else rationality may break through the haze of rage.’

Taunting an erratic woman may not be the wisest course of action to take, but what other method could the raven-haired female imply? The other parties left her with no visible solution in sight, after all Hatori seemed hell-bent on serving his family rather than taking into account what other’s were feeling. ’I know you’re beginning to fall back into old habits….’ Aya’s wavering voice invaded the Tennin’s stormy thoughts ’Fate eh? She makes fate sound like an intangible object. What meaning can life have without purpose? Does Akito think mere words will keep me solidified….even if I can’t change the word ’fate’….I can still fight against it. While…..I’m still breathing and alive…I’ll keep on battling.’ Her statements sounded courageous, but highly foolish according to Ceres’ personal opinion. The blonde-haired female could spend eternity trying to be with Yuki, yet her status as a half-breed would never change. She was and would always be a Celestial Maiden. No amount of begging for mercy would change Mikage’s age old tradition of sacrificing innocent girls. ’Sorry Aya, I can’t fulfill promises anymore.’ In her eyes, the zodiac leader transformed literally into Mikage. Cold. Cruel. Unbending. Completely unwilling to let calm logic solve their precarious situation without resorting to heavy violence. Akito Sohma tried justifying her actions by blaming outsiders for her own misdoings, unfortunately no amount of defensive action from Aya would change her point of view. ’Are you blind? She wants to maintain control in the most selfish way possible. Hatori is her main tool for keeping every single outsider from ever stepping foot outside with intact memories.’ The obsidian-haired Tenshi explained, grinding teeth together in agitation.

When had Ceres Mikage resumed her role of guardian angel fulfilling unimportant duties? How did Aya’s problems become bothersome for the raven-haired Tenshi? Was it from meeting Yuki Sohma in the first place? Or did fate plan on side-tracking her once again from obtaining information over the lost Celestial Mana? ’Am I wasting valuable time battling senseless conflicts? What about my own needs?’ The Tennin’s original intention revolved around two important key factors; one finding out where her cherished Hag Oromo lay and secondly discover why each meeting with certain individuals produced unpleasant sensations. However, the raven-haired woman knew what would occur if Hatori managed to erase every single memory. ‘We worked hard….only to have someone erase our hard won rewards.’ Why was Akito Sohma completely pressed on the idea of torturing her host with venomous words? Wouldn’t the assigned task be easier if Aya hadn’t been riddled up into releasing Ceres from internal confinement? “Sorry to disappoint you, but Aya has fallen asleep inside of me.” The Celestial Maiden retorted “You waste time shouting to a girl whose already disappeared.” In reality, the flaxen-haired teen hadn’t vanished at all. She hovered behind a thin line separating both mentalities from entwining into one and becoming lost. Obviously, the flaxen-haired female wanted no more blood shed….but Akito seemed to have other ideas when it came to physical confrontations. ‘I should’ve realized she had contact with the Mikage family.’ The black-haired angel mused thoughtfully ’Is that why no one bothered us?’ Indeed. Her own flesh and blood would’ve tried coming after her host, the instant they caught wind of her direction. Although, what did the leader do to protect Aya? ’Foolish girl…..one wrong move will bring the wrath of the entire family against you. Don’t worry….I will not be present to ’save’ you if problems should arise.’

Dismissing Akito’s screaming voice, the Tennin’s painted lips curled downwards in a cynical smile “Your even more foolish, than I originally thought.” Ceres chuckled lowly “I’m already dead.” Her physical body had disintegrated centuries ago, leaving behind a restless spirit unable to move on. Still, the woman’s callous statements transformed into familiar sounding words spoken often by her own family. Why? Why did her heart ache? How could her inner self cry out in anguish over hearing the simple word ‘disappear’? ‘Her words are making me bleed internally, I don’t understand this unsettling feeling blooming in my chest.’ The young woman thought to herself ’I don’t want to remember! I don’t want to understand! I don’t want to remember anything or anyone!’ Her subconscious screamed out, prompting Ceres to smother emotions from overwhelming mental clarity. Covering up flustered feelings only worsened the grating wound in her heart, except Hatori’s emotionless sounding voice provided brief respite for the conflicted angel. At first glance it would seem her seemingly harmless accusation would not be answered, surprisingly though the dark-haired Sohma provided useful information even if the evidence contradicted what Ceres had been feeling originally for Hatori.

’Love gone wrong….’ Her rational mind whispered ’He does have a heart, but it’s been buried again by tons of ice.’ Ironic, how falling in love could transform one person over night. The saddest part lay in having to undone passionate feelings with one’s own hands. ’You erased Kana’s memories….just like I erased my husband from this world.’ Golden brown hues glanced momentarily down at clenched hands, that had once been stained in sticky red blood. “I see…” She responded softly, knowing the young doctor held valid reasons for erasing memories that once held special significance and still to this day hold special meaning in his wavering heart. “Even though your reasons may have been valid…..and painful to accomplish I can’t help wondering why your still pressing on to erase other people’s memories.” The young woman muttered, her mind beginning to comprehend how complex of a relationship each individual Sohma had with their corrupted leader.
Maybe comprehensive devotion wasn’t the right word to use in this dire situation involving an emotionally unstable woman with three obedient young men willing to obey her every whim. Was it mind control? Was it resignation of a certain situation which couldn’t be altered in any way or form? Were the Sohma’s helplessly drawn to Akito Sohma because of fear? ’Any outsider involving themselves in this family immediately gets shoved aside, but what about the broken hearts left behind? What about the unfathomable fidelity shown to her? Would each individual family member fall into utter chaos if Akito Sohma passed away?’ How deeply fanatical could loyalty became that an individual unexpectedly loses themselves? The elaborate family created from one single person intrigued Ceres deeply, except the tennin found herself divided between two uncertain emotions battling for control. Admiration and disgust bloomed inside her chest, while watching dedication directed towards someone who didn’t deserve such privileges. Did the Celestial Maiden feel any envy for the wayward display of familial bond? If jealousy truly did not cloud her heart, than why did Ceres wish someone had shown her the same level of dedication shown to the slender young woman? “A simple bond holding everyone together or a relationship rich in complexity?” Scarlet lips thinned slightly “Your devotion to her is remarkable, but maybe you’re also being selfish with yourselves as well.” Ceres remarked, shifting accusing hues onto the newest arrival “I shouldn’t be surprised to see you here.” Shaking raven tresses away from her line of sight, the angel quelled every desire to unleash pent-up wrath against Shigure. Had he known about Hatori’s plan to erase Aya’s memories?

’Of course he did….and I have absolutely no doubts Ayame knew about the situation as well.’ Grinding teeth furiously, the obsidian-haired female began feeling emotional betrayal waving bright red flags straight in her face. Again another hurtful display of treachery. Another broken heart without chance of being mended. All thanks to one person pulling all the strings behind every one’s unscrupulous actions. “Shigure….I bet you had an inkling of what was about to happen and yet….” She trailed in mid-sentence obviously struggling with her carefully constructed composure “Heh…..I wasted half my strength healing four injured younglings….nice to know the blind fold has fallen from my eyes. All of you are a disappointment!” Slender fingers tightened instinctively, as the enraged Tenshi turned attention onto the leader “You’re absolutely right….we both don’t belong here! Except…this so called ’spell’ used to create this despicable banquet should be easy to abolish. I wonder….should I call upon my powers to strip that ridiculous title from you as a reminder of your place!” Ceres’ voice rose octaves “Should I remind you Akito that without the devotion of your family, you are nothing but a pathetic human being who deserves to be ALONE! You don’t deserve their dedication! You don’t deserve to have such noble hearts sacrificing themselves for a you. Now that I think about it….I’m not afraid of destruction after all I am a devil.” She huffed, viably itching for a confrontation with the foolish leader who even now struggled to get away from the two men holding her back.



{ OCC: Sorry about the delay! Thought I'd start having Ceres provoke Akito even further now. }

‘Since when has worrying about another's welfare become illegal? Isn’t it narcissistic to just express concern for yourself? I don’t understand…..I just can’t understand how Akito can be so conceited with her own family. Is she blind to the pain and sorrow caused by greed?’ Slender fingers pushed stray pieces of flaxen-colored hair behind one ear, while the sixteen-year old adolescent fidgeted apprehensively inside her dark prison. ’Why am I feeling nervous all of a sudden? Nothing can reach me in here…right? Ceres might be strong, but even the toughest defense can crumble. Even now I can feel my physical body nearing it’s limit with each passing minute….if everything slows down Hatori will be able to erase my memory.’ How long would the heavenly angel maintain control over a body suffering clear signs of fatigue? Did Ceres intend on battling the zodiac leader without taking into consideration the physical trauma inflicted being upon innocent family members; including herself? ’Hang on just a bit longer.’ The angel whispered telepathically ’I’m doing everything in my power to keep her at bay…’ She tried reassuring her anxious descendent, although the confrontation with Akito was draining an enormous amount of stamina. For a woman who seemed utterly frail and walked thin borders between abysmal illness ,Akito obviously had adequate vigor to spout double-edged statements at the obsidian-haired female. ’She doesn’t know! She doesn’t know anything! I don’t regret meeting Yuki! I don’t regret spending what little time I had together with him! He and every last Sohma deserve happiness!’ Aya screamed suddenly, her angry voice bouncing off invisible walls. Blue-grey eyes brimmed with unshed tears, but the flaxen-haired adolescent remained resolute against Akito’s stabbing words. If she and Yuki had never crossed paths, would his life be simpler? ’Don’t let mere words bring you into doubt.’ Ceres muttered inwardly, knowing for a fact the zodiac members would continue life in isolation; always losing what little happiness obtained by Akito’s impertinent nature. “Yes…you are a ’god’…but a terrible one who treats her own family members as servants. The woman I see before my eyes fears loneliness……and thus uses fear as a lasso to unite everything together You don‘t see your own family as being equivalent…...do you?” She retorted, pausing momentarily to hear self-control literally shattering into a thousand pieces.

’Keep telling yourself that. Keep whispering delusional words to comfort yourself. Akito Sohma isn’t a god…..but an imprudent human being capable of bleeding.’ Vermillion colored lips thinned slightly in displeasure, for even now the younger Sohma continued to shout vile insults at the top of her voice. Callous terminology might not affect the celestial maiden outwardly, but inwardly she bled profuse crimson droplets. ‘My words have triggered a massive change in Akito.’ The maiden’s exhausted mind barely had time to register Akito’s swift movements, as the unpredictable female secured hold of a delicately etched vase and hurled it straight at Ceres with animal-like ferocity. ’Watch out!’ Aya yelled instinctively, her voice allowing the Tennin to skirt clumsily backwards in order to avoid flying debris….yet at the same time falling prey to Akito’s violent nature. ‘Aya….her words are meant to wound….don’t let anything or anyone slice you open!’ She warned her frightened descendent, although all mental processes were abruptly interrupted by a set of sharp nails digging profoundly into Ceres’ pale skin. “Well…..I thank you for committing such a regretful mistake.” The obsidian-haired angel responded angrily, sucking short breaths of air in to compensate for the bodily pain Akito was inflicting on her. Did the young woman honestly expect Aya to crumble so easily? ’Are you that heartless? Are you willing to become like the rest of the Mikage?’ Severe words echoed vividly inside her mind conjuring mental images of happy birthdays ending tragically with a single gun shot. Blood. Pain. Tears. Was Akito truly prepared to shed innocent blood just to prevent Ceres from emerging? “You really are an imprudent whelp.” The celestial maiden sneered venomously “If I am a devil…then what are you? A monster? Or a murderer in the making? Already delusions cloud that head of yours…..I wonder how you would be able to handle seeing future blood being spilled? ” She questioned softly, quickly glancing down at superficial wounds only after the zodiac leader had been taken away.‘I’ll be feeling quite achy tomorrow morning.’ Aya whispered humorlessly, eyelids clamped instinctively shut as wave upon wave of dull throbs crashed into her. What other brutal treatments did Akito have hidden? Or did the Sohma leader intend to have Ceres covered in visible scars? ’The words emerging out of her mouth are harsh, but I don’t regret being saved. People say fate is unpredictable, so may there is a logical explanation behind my existence…..although most female descendents displaying Tennyo characteristics die….I’m the only one who has survived through thick and thin.’

Was it luck? Was Akito partially responsible for her survival? The blonde-haired adolescent would’ve of scoffed at such absurdities, however Ceres’ rising fury provided an extremely poor prognosis. ’Akito and Ceres….aren’t holding back anymore.’ She mumbled quietly, glancing outwards to see the petite female trembling in Kureno’s and Shigure’s embrace. Fear. Nothing, but pure fright motivated Akito’s every savage encounter. She was a lonely girl who hadn’t received much affection in her existence nor much chance to socialize properly. The entire Sohma family represented an unbreakable life line, that if broken by any outside force could devastate what little sanity Akito had left. ’Does it bother you if I don’t hold back? Will you attempt to stop me?’ Cold words leaked into Aya’s subconscious through the thin barrier separating both mentalities from melding into one ’I clearly stated speaking calmly to Akito wasn’t an option…..just look at the physical damage she has inflicted on us.’ The obsidian-haired angel stated telepathically, cold topaz-colored eyes glued mercilessly upon the young woman who appeared to be fighting against Ceres’ previous verbal attack. Seeing Akito Sohma quivering in fear should’ve provoked feelings of triumph over her opponent, instead the celestial maiden dealt with intense sorrow threatening to chip little by little at her resolve. Why? Why should she feel sadness right now? Why did it hurt to insult Akito, when clearly the female was in dire need of a wake up call? ’Emotions are bothersome.’ Biting inner lip cautiously, the tennin took three steps backwards to avoid being hit by scattered pottery Akito intentionally kicked up. Broken vases. Broken family members. Broken skin. Broken leader. Everything and everyone in this house suffered some type of fracturing injury that left them physically, emotionally and mentally shattered. ’She is getting riled up again!’ Aya shouted inwardly, her warning coming seconds after Akito had taken pent-up wrath against Shigure, who seconds later ended up hitting the plastered wall. “Indeed…..this girl in front of me is nothing more….than a helpless child. She is capable of spewing forth threats….inflicting injury upon others….but over all completely dependant on marionettes to do all her bidding.” Ceres sneered between gritted teeth, watching the violent scene begin to unfold right before her very eyes. First Shigure fell victim beneath Akito’s assault, now Kureno appeared to be holding onto the enraged young woman with his ebbing strength, unfortunately the slim female happened to toss him past the stunned Tennyo like a rag doll.

"She doesn’t even realize her own family members are obtaining multiple injuries.” She murmured lowly, deciding inwardly that displaying concern for the former rooster would only be a waste of time. ‘Four enemies in the room….but the ones I detest more are Akito and Hatori.’ Still, the other two males involved tried their hardest to maintain Akito under control, although a seemingly weak woman could display super human strength thanks in part to the adrenaline pumping through her vessels. “Foolish girl….you’re over here complaining to me about interfering with YOUR precious family and yet…you had the audacity to intervene in MINE! What are you trying to prove?” She retorted hatefully, before faltering four steps backwards as Akito slammed Ceres across the cheek with enough force to make her head swing sideways. Glossy obsidian strands fell over the Tennin’s battered face, shielding dulled golden-brown eyes momentarily from view, while the young woman tried gaining comprehension of what had just transpired. ‘She hit me….right in the same area he assaulted me. This girl behaves like a miniature replica of Shiso Mikagi.’ His name did nothing, except bring up conflicting feelings from the depths, in addition Akito’s incessant commotion made it increasingly difficult to distinguish between what was real and what wasn’t. ‘He isn’t alive anymore! I know he can’t hurt me…but why do I keep seeing him in my memories! Why do I feel an incredible urge to rebel against her condemnations!?’ Scarlet set into a grim line, the raven-haired angel tried defending herself against scratches aimed towards her face and skin. “OPEN YOUR EYES!” She screamed brutally “THEY DON’T BELONG TO YOU! THEY ARE NOT YOUR PROPERTY NOR SHOULD THEY BE TREATED LIKE ANIMALS! YOU ARE NOT A DIVINE CREATURE!” Narrowing luminous orbs at the distraught zodiac leader, Ceres debated between taking the offensive or remaining defensive just in case Hatori tried using her momentary distraction to his full advantage. ’I can’t risk dropping my guard now.’ She analyzed mentally, shifting focus onto Kureno’s battered body, as he summoned sufficient strength to knock Akito away. ‘Finally some room to breath!’ The young woman brooded, taking advantage of brief respite to check on her superficial injuries. Cuts, bruises and occasional indentures caused by crescent-shaped nails lay etched into porcelain skin, however those minimal lesions weren’t bad enough to need medical attention. In fact, the zodiac rooster would probably need urgent treatment because of foreign articles imbedded into his skin.

‘Can my frozen heart be mended?’ The ebon-haired angel pondered mentally ‘No….my heart can’t possibly recover after hearing Akito’s searing words. I understand her pain stems from decades of constant abuse…but come one even in the present violence continues to reign supreme and these adults standing in front of me are ignorant…especially Hatori Sohma.’ Grinding teeth harshly together, Ceres shifted indolent features towards the dark-haired doctor who spoke in his usual composed tone. ‘Your god in pain? She was already in pain long before I met her….’ She thought bitterly to herself ‘Aya and I did not start attacking her….Akito Sohma was the one who initiated the problem.’ Was she obligated to let the zodiac leader inflict humiliation upon her? Was it wrong to defend herself against Akito’s verbal assaults? Apparently opinions weren’t well received in this peculiar family, but the young man wouldn’t change Ceres’ outlook at all. Pursing scarlet-colored lips slightly, the heavenly maiden made her replies completely blunt “You’re absolutely right my heart is still incased in ice.” She admitted solemnly “I maybe a contradiction…however Akito has no right to begin blaming me for pitiful decisions she has committed. Do you honestly believe I will allow her to insult me just like she does with everyone else? What your so called leader does to me, shall be returned two-fold. If everyone else here likes being submissive that’s their own problem…’I’ on the other hand won’t allow such insolence from a delusional child.” Ceres retorted icily, momentarily tuning out Akito’s shouts in order to concentrate better. ’What do I stand for? Who can I protect? What type of nonsense are you sputtering Hatori?’ Slender brows furrowed downwards, the Tennyo shook her head slowly ’My family….was the main reason for my existence. I was mother, nurse, and their protector for many wonderful years….after killing Mikagi I swore an oath under the oak tree. If any power still lingered in my body….I would do everything in my power to provide future generations with a Tennyo’s divine protection.’ Did she really have to answer his question? Dismissing trivial thoughts aside, Ceres merely replied “Who or what I’m trying to protect isn’t of any concern to you.” She hissed abrasively, already making her decision on avoiding future contact with the Sohma male. Questions and accusations? Is that all he could come up with? ’See Aya….I told you coming here was a bad idea.’ The young woman told her sleeping descendent, before glancing towards Kureno’s moving figure. He had already been injured enough by Akito’s relentless assault on his physical body, yet at the same time he willing to stay by her side despite suffering horrendous injuries.

Why? Was it the zodiac spirit keeping him tethered? No…that couldn’t be it. Kureno was a free man devoid of the curse, so why choose to stay with someone just to comfort them? ‘I still don’t understand how anyone can support Akito’s terrible temperament.’ At Kureno’s mention of staying for someone’s happiness, Ceres felt her heart beginning to beat rapidly and prickles of unrestrained anger tried making their way to the surface. “The last time I tried staying for someone’s ‘happiness’ was the day tragedy occurred.” She answered cryptically, her mind straying back to old memories containing both good and bad times spent with family. Because of Mikagi’s changing nature, Ceres had already contemplated taking her three children from the village…thus leaving their ancestral home forever. Blind love and fear of the siblings growing up without paternal guidance led her into staying with him, until Miku’s unexpected death placed a damper on everything. ’My daughter would’ve been alive if I had left him sooner.’ Nonetheless lamenting precedent events served absolutely no purpose, except to place more salt on open wounds. ‘He doesn’t comprehend my point of view.’ Shrugging rigid shoulders casually the ebon-haired angel couldn’t help shaking her head in utter frustration over the fact that Kureno’s behavior aroused feelings of aggravation. Tightening left fist gradually, she glanced sideways at a struggling zodiac dog holding a wild young woman hell-bent on breaking free whatever the cost. Ceres observed the chaotic scene intently, until the Sohma doctor distracted her with his long explanation of life becoming simpler for Mikage Aya. Searing fury instantly brightened honey-colored eyes, as the celestial maiden grew angrier with Hatori’s seemingly irrational nature “Simpler? Do you honestly think erasing Aya’s memory will make life simple? You are a very foolish man! Pain exists everywhere….and in any form! All sorts of relationships are destined for pain….truthfully there isn’t a single human being on this earth who hasn’t experience some type of anguish.” She snarled “Never underestimate a Tennyo’s endurance Hatori….’we’ aren’t fragile creatures. Plus what right do you have to take away precious memories?! Just because you automatically ’think’ pain can be erased doesn’t mean you or anyone has a right to intrude.” Ceres snapped not really caring if her words bounced off Hatori.

Love and hate coursed through finely divided lines in which one erroneous move could spiral beautiful sentiments into distant rivulets of ice. What was love anyway? Was it an inferior emotion built only to serve biological purposes? ‘How can an abstract feeling cause chaos?’ The Tennin reflected critically ’Yuki and Aya….the start of their relationship only sparked anger within Akito. Why? Has she never once fallen in love? Or is loneliness now corrupted by obsession the real culprit to blame?’ A part of her tried evaluating the zodiac’s precarious situation from an insider’s perspective, but livid sensations contaminated Ceres’ opinion of the zodiac leader. Hatori’s earlier words, Akito’s venomous proclamations and Shigure’s own statements thundered forceful inside mental confines, integrating in with a mixture of volatile material ready to explode. ’Calm. You have to keep yourself calm at all costs.’ She reminded herself, squeezing eyelids tightly shut. If the younger woman had been reasonable earlier, Ceres wouldn’t have reverted to her old violent self…however such wishes were best kept under wraps. The moment Akito Sohma lashed out…was exactly the same moment self-control started dispersing like fog in the wind. Golden-brown optics opened slowly revealing a lethal cocktail of both hatred and anger over the way Akito questioned her own guilt. Scarlet-colored lips parted open to speak “Is the burden of your own actions that overwhelming that even you can’t stand them? Funny…how the zodiac leader tries to clean her dirty hands by blaming others. Are you a coward? Or are you merely angry because someone else is standing up for themselves? Apparently…you are used to having everyone obey your every whim…but not today. I WON‘T LET AN INSIGNIFICANT GIRL LIKE YOURSELF WEAR ME DOWN!” She bellowed accusingly, curling both hands into tightening fists till knuckles turned ashen white in response to blood being constricted. “Your proposition clear? Don’t make me laugh! The deal you made with Aya was clearly rigged to your advantage…one false move on her part and you would cause Yuki Sohma harm…all the while using that as an excuse to justify your actions! You Akito Sohma are a disgrace! By the way stop making up false justifications about being forced to punish him. No one threatened or place a gun to your head….you of your OWN free will chose to punish Yuki.” Ceres retorted coarsely, glaring at the slender young woman who attempted to kick her in vain.

By now most of Akito’s shouts recoiled off the celestial maiden, for it had been decided that logical reasoning with the zodiac leader was truly an impossible feat to accomplish. ’She’s bound to break free again….I better be prepared.’ Petite body going rigid the raven-haired angel could do nothing else, but watch as Shigure tussled wildly around with Akito. What seemed to be quite a long struggle between both individuals, quickly ended in the zodiac dog losing his balance as Akito bolted unexpectedly. ’I can’t believe she hasn’t run out of energy!’ Although her mental thoughts were brought to an abrupt halt, upon seeing a certain silver-haired adolescent come rushing out of nowhere. “It can’t be….” Ceres whispered in astonishment “How was he able to stand up in the first place?” Citrine-colored hues changed rapidly from hateful to full of extreme concern for the rat whose damaged physical body acted as an effective blockade against Akito’s destructive onslaught. ’What was the point of using my healing powers on him….if he’ll only succeed in placing more strain on his debilitated body.’ The heavenly maiden contemplated anxiously, eyes sweeping critically over every square inch of Yuki’s battered body. He wore nothing intricately interesting, except for a pair of loose trousers and bandages, which sooner or later would end up becoming tinged in crimson. “You shouldn’t overexert your body…..otherwise the magic holding those wounds together will diminish.” Ceres responded softly “Never mind….I waste precious energy attempting to make myself be heard over Akito’s constant shouting.” Why did she worry about his welfare? How could a Tennyo allow herself to be thrown into the throes of bedlam? ’She is reborn without worry of being killed….while ’I’ constantly tango between life and death. How would Akito Sohma react….if she had been the one in Aya’s place? This girl doesn’t understand anything at all…..’ Breaching troubled thoughts aside, the ebon-haired female smiled bitterly “True….I did choose a few select things in my life….however the surprises my husband had were quite unexpected. Although someone like you will never understand marriage and childbirth.” She retorted humorlessly “Heh….you act as if you’re the only one in the world who has been abandoned….when it’s quite clear you’re surrounded by the Sohma’s. I suppose the zodiac leader doesn’t know what it’s like to be condemned to a slow death…but I agree whole-heartedly with your statement. We don’t understand each other…..and it would be best to cease my argument.” Ceres paused momentarily in mid-sentence, slender body twisting sideways to see the familiar ginger-haired adolescent strolling through the doorway.

’What is he doing here? Hmm…apparently Kyo’s presence doesn’t sit well with Akito…..still isn’t the youth of the same bloodline? So…..why does Akito treat him brutally?’ Rising curiosity gave way to thousands of unanswered questions swirling inside Ceres’ consciousness, but the young woman instead chose silence over prying into personal business. A celestial maiden at full power didn’t fall easily to petty distractions caused by external sources, however weakened deities were known to lower their guard….often leading to tragic consequences. Shigure’s loud exclamation impelled an immediate reaction from the distressed angel, as petite body swung instinctively around to try and counter whatever danger headed her way. ’Damn…’ She swore mentally ’I shouldn’t have let Kyo’s appearance distract me!’ Pressing vermillion-colored lips together, she watched Hatori Sohma jump quickly into action…his out-stretched hand coming much to close for comfort. ’Without Mana….my powers are utterly useless. Is this the end for Aya and her memories?’ Chewing inner lip anxiously, Ceres confronted retribution head-on without hope of coming out intact, that was until Kyo intervened by knocking Hatori’s hand aside. “What happened? Why did he interfere?” The heavenly maiden inquired quietly, shutting eyes tightly against the fading light produced from an unanticipated source. ’For now my memories are intact…..thanks to Kyo.’ Despite having been saved from oblivion, the raven-haired angel worried immensely over the cat’s welfare. Would Akito attempt to punish Kyo for his intrusions? “Must be something of great importance….if you personally came all this way to tell us.” She replied cautiously, arching one eyebrow in question as Kyo relayed the cat’s memo. Attention focused solely on the orange-haired youth, she listened intently to his statement ……conversely the news felt like a slap to the face. “What?! How is that possible? Please…..elaborate further….for I don’t remember any past involvement with the Sohma family.” Ceres said in astonishment, golden-brown hues reflecting visible signs of denial. How could the founder of the Mikagi family….be the beginning of the Sohma's?