User blog:Akasha1908/Chiyome's True Love

 This Fanfic is for Tobi! Chiyome Mochizuki is his favorite daemon, so I thought I'd write a love story involving the two of them.  I hope you like it, Toto-chan!

 <3 Aka



            Chiyome stood by the entrance of the shrine waiting patiently for him to walk by. She was still in training to be a shrine maiden and was supposed to attending to her daily tasks, but it was just after sunrise and she didn’t want to miss seeing him walk past. The sound of voices around the corner sent her scrambling to fix her hair for the 10th time. She peeked around the stone wall, and saw two shadows approaching. Straightening her haori, Chiyome moved out from her hiding place and started sweeping the massive walkway leading up to the shrine.

             Two men walked by, speaking and laughing loudly. Chiyome’s shoulders sunk as she realized neither was the one she was hoping for. She frowned, biting her lower lip worriedly. He was late. Definitely not like him. She propped the broom up against the wall and stepped out of the gate.

             “Watch out!”   A male shouted.

             Chiyome turned at the sound of his voice. She had just enough time to put up her hands and brace herself against the force of the collision. He crashed into her scrolls flying everywhere. Chiyome hit the ground, all the air knocked completely out of her. He landed ungracefully on top of her, his weight making it impossible for her to regain her lost breath.

             “I’m so sorry!”   He cried frantically, scrambling to his feet. “I should have been paying attention to where I was going! I’m late, you see, and…”   He stopped mid-sentence, staring at her with wide eyes. “I-I…”   He swallowed, then tried to speak again. “A-are you okay?”   He asked in a rush, holding out his hand.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Chiyome let him help her up, desperately trying to fix her mussed hair. “I-I’m fine.” She mumbled softly, unable to meet his eyes.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Are you sure?”   He asked. “You look kind of pale.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “I… I…”   She mentally cursed herself. Breathe!   She screamed in her head. ''Say something! Anything!''

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Perhaps you should sit down.”   He guided her into the gates and sat her down on a stone bench close by. “I’ll be right back. I just need to collect my things. Stay right here, okay?”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Chiyome nodded, wringing her hands nervously in her lap. He raced back to the gate and disappeared. In the time it took for him to collect his things, she’d fixed her hair and clothing, and regained a measure of her wits again. Now she couldn’t keep the smile off her face. It was him! He looked at her, spoken to her, even touched her hand! She was so happy she wanted to jump up and dance around the shrine. He walked back over to her, and this time Chiyome was brave enough to look at him. He met her gaze with warm brown eyes and a gentle smile.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Oh, thank goodness!”   He said. “The color’s returned to your cheeks! I really am sorry about that. I’m running late this morning.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             She stood to her feet as he approached. “Then you should probably get going. I promise you, I’m fine.”   Chiyome let out a whoop of excitement in her mind. ''She’d done it! She’d talked to him!''

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             He stared at her for a few seconds, his slow smile evaporating the little bit of confidence she managed to summon.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “You have a beautiful voice. It makes me think of a warm summer breeze, or a sunrise on a crystal clear morning.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Thank you.”   She replied, her voice weak and barely above a whisper.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Chiyome wondered if the young man before her realized how devastatingly handsome he was. The combination of his looks, his smile and his wonderfully deep voice made her want to melt into a puddle on the ground.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">He laughed softly, and Chiyome had to lower herself back onto her seat for fear she’d faint from the beauty of it.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“I bet that sounded a bit strange.”   He said, raking a hand through his hair. “I’m a writer, you see, and I look for inspiration every and anywhere. You make me want to write a poem about…”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Chiyome cheeks burned red and she prayed it wasn’t too obvious.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“My apologies.”   He said, leaving his sentence unfinished. “I stand here talking to you about poems and summer breezes, and I haven’t even introduced myself. My name is Tobi.”   He bowed formally to her.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“I’m Chiyome.”   She replied, returning his bow.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Wow.”   He whispered. “Even your name is beautiful.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Chiyome could feel her blush spreading all the way to her hairline. She couldn’t take much more of his compliments.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Well.”   He said, shoving his scrolls back into his bag. “I should be going. It was nice meeting you Chiyome-san. Enjoy the rest of your day.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">He smiled and bowed, and just like that he was gone. Chiyome sat on the bench trying to recall every second of their meeting. It wasn’t exactly how she’d planned it, but their fateful encounter was the first step to something wonderful. She could feel it!

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Chiyo-chan!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">The voice came from further up the path. Chiyome immediately recognized it as Kuroki. She jumped to her feet, racing over to where she’d left her broom. She’d managed to return to sweeping the walkway just as her friend appeared.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“There you are.”   Kuroki said in an exasperated voice. “You’re father’s here; he wants to see you immediately.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“What?!”   The broom slipped from her fingers and clatter to the ground. “Why?”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“How would I know?”   Kuroki said with a shrug. “But I suggest you hurry up. He’s already been kept waiting for too long.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Chiyome nodded, then bent over to pick up the broom she’d dropped. Quickly, she followed after Kuroki to where father was waiting.

<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt; text-align:center;line-height:150%">

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Tobi quickly slid of his shoes before stepping into the home of <span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">Mochizuki Nobumasa. He was late, but he was praying no one would notice.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Where the hell have you been?!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">Tobi stiffened at Fera’s castigating voice. Not once since he’d come into Mochizuki-sama’s employ had he ever been late. But as far as Fera was concerned, one mistake was enough to ruin Tobi’s spotless record.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“My apologies, Fera-san. I had a bit of an accident this morning. I promise it won’t happen again.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Save your apologies for Mochizuki-sama. He’ll be waiting for you in the in his study. You’re lucky he had a late night last night and took his breakfast late. He’s only just finished.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">Tobi bowed quickly, then raced to the study to wait for Mochizuki-sama. As he waited, he prepared his ink and parchment, then sat quietly until the door slide open. Tobi bowed as his employer stepped into the room followed by three other men. None of them acknowledged Tobi as the continued a quiet yet heated discussion. Tea was served, and, for the next few hours, Tobi was directed to dictate several correspondences.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">Time passed slowly, and twice Tobi had to stop himself from falling asleep. Not that the business Mochizuki-sama discussed wasn’t riveting, but Tobi was working on a few projects of his own, and once he’d accepted a position in the Mochizuki household, his time was scarce. Unfortunately, that meant sacrificing his sleep.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“I’m afraid we’ll have to cut this meeting short.”   Mochizuki-sama said. “I have business at the shrine this afternoon.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">The men exchanged goodbyes leaving Tobi and Mochizuki-sama alone. Tobi stood as well, waiting to see if his master had any further instructions for him.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Tobi.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Yes, master.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Are you familiar with the men those letters are for?”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Yes, master.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Deliver them immediately then consider you’re released for the remainder of the day.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Thank you, master.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">Mochizuki-sama left the room without another word, leaving Tobi to clean up his tools alone.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Tobi!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">The loud whisper came from the sliding door leading to the garden.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Rei? What are you doing here?!”   Tobi whispered back loudly.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“I saw Mochizuki and his guests leave, so I figured you’d be alone.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Geez, Rei, you can’t just sneak in here!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“It’s not my fault.”   Rei replied, strolling into the room. “They really should hire more guards.”   He knelt down; picking up one of the left over cakes the men had been served with their tea.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Put the cake down!”   Tobi whispered loudly. “You aren’t supposed to be here!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“You really need to relax.”   Rei said nonchalantly, shoving the rest of the cakes into his pocket. “I thought you might want to have lunch over at Joruri’s ramen shop.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Not today.”   Tobi replied, picking up his things. “I have something I need to do.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Oh, c’mon!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Will you keep it down?!”   Tobi snapped. “I’ve got a good thing going here and I don’t need you ruining it for me.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">Rei sighed dramatically. “Fine. I promise I’ll leave quietly if you agree to go to lunch with me.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Why can’t you just go alone?”   Tobi asked.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Because Aka hired a new girl and she’s really pretty. I need you to come be my wingman.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“I think it would be better if you go by yourself then.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“No way.”   Rei continued. “I’ll look like an idiot if I go in there alone.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“I really can’t.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">Rei clapped his hands together, sticking out his lip and making puppy dog eyes at Tobi.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“I said no, Rei.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Tobi, what’s taking you so long?”   Fera asked from down the hall.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Ah, just making sure I have everything!”   He called back. Tobi turned back to Rei, pointing to the door. “Leave! Now!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Not until you say you’ll go to lunch.”   Rei replied, unable to hide his grin.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Rei.”   Tobi warned.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Say you’ll go.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">Footsteps drew closer and Tobi realized he had no choice. “Fine! Now go!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Great! I’ll meet you outside.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">Rei slipped out the door and into the garden and the exact moment Fera enter the room.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Who are you talking to?”   Fera asked suspiciously, looking around the room.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Myself.”   Tobi said with a forced smile. “It helps me stay organized.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">Fera’s eyes narrowed, but Tobi kept his smile pasted on his face.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“I believe Mochizuki-sama gave you a job to do.”   Fera said, crossing his arms.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Yes! And I was just on my way to take care of it.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">Tobi bowed sharply, then quickly left the room. He breathed a sigh of relief when he was back on the street, but it was short-lived when Rei appeared out of nowhere and smacked him on the back.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“Whew! I’m starving.”   Rei said, shoving one of the cakes he’d stolen into his mouth.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">“I can’t imagine how.”   Tobi mumbled. Rei was the son of a nobleman, but despite their difference in station, they were friends. As a matter of fact, Rei was the eldest son of one of the men he was supposed to deliver Mochizuki-sama’s message to. Once again, carefree Rei was keeping Tobi from doing what he was supposed to do.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">As promised, Tobi had lunch with Rei. It took his friend all of 10 minutes to convince the pretty young waitress to have dinner with him that night, and within another 5 minutes, Rei had completely forgotten Tobi was there.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">He’d known this was going to happen, which was why he hadn’t wanted to accompany Rei to lunch. Tobi rolled his eyes, watching his childhood friend flirt shamelessly with the unsuspecting young woman. He hurried to finish his food, then left the shop without Rei even noticing.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">As requested, he made the deliveries to each of the men Mochizuki-sama instructed him to. None of them requested a message be delivered in return, so Tobi was able to head home well before sunset. He smiled to himself. This was the first time he’d been allowed to leave early since he started working for the Japanese nobleman. Tonight, he’d get a chance to work on his own project, maybe even get a good night sleep.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";mso-ansi-language:EN">He turned the corner, passing by the entrance to the shrine he’d met the dark-haired beauty at. <span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">The soft sound of crying brought him to a stop. When he realized it was coming from inside the shrine gate, he turned back to investigate.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Underneath a small copse of trees sat Chiyome. Her knees were tucked to her chest and her head rested on her knees. Tobi wasn’t the best at handling crying women. He’d learned early in his adult life that women were mysterious creatures, and that the simple act of consoling one could result in catastrophic consequences…

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Tobi ease forward cautiously, trying to think of what he should say or do. He flirted with the idea of walking away, but something in him refused to leave her alone.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">He cleared his throat. “Excuse me, Chiyome-san. Are you alright?”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Her head shot up, revealing puffy red eyes and tear-streaked cheeks. Tobi’s heart stopped for a few seconds, then sputtered to a start again. Despite her messy hair and rumpled clothing, she looked beautiful. Just as she had this morning when he first met her.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“I’m sorry to bother you.”   Tobi continued. “But I hear you crying and I wanted to make sure you were alright.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Her eyes widened, and suddenly she was on her feet, wiping her tears away. Tobi couldn’t tell if she was angry or frightened, and he instinctively took a step back to give her space.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“I shouldn’t have intruded, I’ll leave you alone.”   He said quickly.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">As soon as the words left his mouth, he wanted to take them back. He didn’t want to go. He wanted to know who or what would make the exquisite creature in front of him cry.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“No!”   She cried as he turned to leave.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">She grabbed his arm and he turned back. Her delicate hand gripped him tightly, and she stared up at him with her large brown eyes. For a brief moment, Tobi had the distinct feeling like he was falling straight into them. It was such a wonderful feeling that he let it carry him away…   Until he realized he was inches away from her face, his lips hovering just above hers. She’d been so perfectly still that Tobi hadn’t even realized what he was doing until it was almost too late. He jumped back, bowing low and swiftly.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“I’m so sorry!”   He exclaimed. “I didn’t mean to…   I wasn’t trying to…   I’m sorry!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Tobi could feel the blush rising in his cheeks. He didn’t know what to say or how to explain his indecent behavior. Taking advantage of an emotionally distraught woman! His mother would be so ashamed!

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“It’s alright.”   She replied softly. “It’s obvious you meant no harm.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Tobi frowned. He thought for sure she’d be upset. Perhaps even call for help. But it was clear the blush in her cheeks wasn’t from anger.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“You startled me.”   She continued. “That’s all. It was very kind of you to make sure I was okay.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Ah, no problem.”   Tobi replied, his confusion more than apparent.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Would you like to sit with me for a while?”   She asked hesitantly. “The sun is about to set. If we move a bit further up this hill, we’ll have a great view.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Nope. This was not going at all like Tobi thought it would. He looked around; waiting for her guardian to jump out from behind a tree and beat him senseless. But when nothing happened, he did what any man would do when offered to watch the sunset with a beautiful woman. He said yes.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Umm, sure.”   He replied.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">She smiled dazzlingly, all signs of her sadness evaporating instantly.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Wonderful!”   She said happily. “Follow me.”

<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt; text-align:center;line-height:150%">

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">It was practically dawn by the time Chiyome made it back to her room. Her entire body was humming with excitement! Never in her life had she been as happy or at ease with someone like she was with Tobi. And in one night, her distant and unrequited adoration for him had transformed into something else entirely.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">They’d stayed up the whole night talking and laughing; getting to know each other little by little. Just as she’d expected, he was more than just a handsome face. He was witty and clever; charming and intelligent. And despite being from a lower class than she, Tobi had a hunger and passion for life she’d never thought could exist in one human being. She was completely and irrevocably in love with him…

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Chiyo-chan!”   Kuroki’s voice rang out, snapping Chiyome out of her reverie.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“I’ll be out in a moment!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“What is taking you so long?”   Kuroki asked, sliding Chiyome’s bedroom door open.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Kuroki stared at Chiyome, her head cocking to the side. Her friend’s eyes narrowed suspiciously. Chiyome opened her mouth to make up an excuse for her current state. She was still dressed in her haori and hamaka from the day before, and no doubt they were wrinkled. And after spending a windy night outside, her hair was probably a mess!

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“I…”   Chiyome started, but Kuroki help up a hand to stop her.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“You can explain later.”   She said with a wink. “But right now you need to get washed up. We have a visitor.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Visitor?”   Chiyome asked, taking down her hair. “Who?”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“What do you mean, who?”   Kuroki asked, frowning slightly. “Your future husband of course! He came by yesterday, to speak to your father. He wanted to see you, too, but you were nowhere to be found. That’s why he came back this morning. Now stop gawking and get dressed!”

<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt; text-align:center;line-height:150%">

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Tobi couldn’t stop smiling. In fact, he’d been smiling so much his face hurt. He’d left the shrine and come straight to work. He was exhausted, but he didn’t care. He’d just spent the best night of his life with a beautiful shrine maiden.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Chiyome was nothing like he expected her to be. Though she looked and acted like a noblewoman, there was a fire in her that drew Tobi in. She was fierce and beautiful, but had a quiet elegance that could bring a man to his knees. The thought of her brought about a flurry of feelings and desires, none of which he could make sense of. ''Was this what love felt like? ''The thought was both exciting and terrifying at the same time.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Pssst.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Tobi looked up to find Rei poking his head through a crack in the door.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“What are you doing here, Rei? I thought I told you not to come back!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Relax.”   Rei replied, walking into the room. “I came to deliver a message from my father to Mochizuki-sama. Unfortunately, he wasn’t here so I had to leave it with one of the servants. I knew you’d be here, so I figured I stop by and see you before I go.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Well, you’ve seen me. Now leave.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Come one, Toto-chan, don’t be like that.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“How many times have I told you not to call me that?!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Clearly you’re still mad about the whole lunch thing yesterday.”   Rei replied, tucking his hands into his pockets. “Still, you didn’t have to leave without saying goodbye.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Really?”   Tobi replied in muted anger. “Tell me, Rei, how long did it take for you to realize I was gone?”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Rei opened his mouth to answer, but nothing came out.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Exactly.”   Tobi replied smugly. “Now, don’t you have somewhere to be?”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Rei smiled lazily. “As a matter of fact I do. I have another rendezvous with my waitress friend. Apparently, she can’t get enough of me.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Too much information, Rei. Now leave before…”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Rei-sama?”   Fera stepped into the room, looking from Rei to Tobi suspiciously. “What are you doing in here? Is he bothering you?”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Tobi cringed. He knew this would happen. Nobleman rarely associated with people such as Tobi. This was a concept he’d repeatedly tried to explain to Rei, but such concepts seemed to be lost on him.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Not at all!”   Rei replied casually. “I’ve known Toto-chan since we were children. I just came to say hello.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Tobi groaned mentally at Rei’s response.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Is that so?”   Fera asked, his eyes narrowing on Tobi. “You didn’t tell me you were close to Rei-sama’s family.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“I didn’t think it was important.”   Tobi replied, trying to sound as innocent as possible.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Right.”   Fera replied, smiling venomously at Tobi. He turned to Rei. “Shall I escort you out, young lord?”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“That would be most kind.”   Rei replied, completely unaware of silent exchange that had taken place between Fera and Tobi. “I see you later, Toto-chan.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Tobi tried to smile at his friend, but it came off as a more of a grimace. He wanted to strangle the idiot. And though it would do nothing to fix the mess Rei had just caused, it would certainly make him feel better.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">While Fera escorted Rei out, Tobi tried to clean up his supplies and leave as soon as possible. As if suspecting he would try to run, Fera returned just before Tobi could make his escape. Fera closed the door behind him, his eyes locked on Tobi.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“I thought I made it clear that any interactions, or previously established relations, with the noble families in this area, were to be disclosed at the time of hiring. We have rules, and they are in place in order to protect our master. There is any number of people conspiring against this family. Though I doubt Rei-sama’s family would betray Mochizuki-sama, certain precautions must be taken.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“I know, but Rei and I barely talk anymore. I didn’t think it was worth mentioning.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Really? Funny, he said the two of you had lunch just yesterday.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Tobi sighed. He knew where this was going.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“What have you told Rei-sama about Mochizuki-sama?”   Fera asked, his tone deadly serious.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Nothing!”   Tobi exclaimed. “I would never betray him!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Fera stared at Tobi for several moments, then moved to slide open the door.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Your services are no longer required by this house. I trust you can find your way out?”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Yes.”   Tobi replied, bowing solemnly.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Tobi gathered his things and walked out of the door. But before he could leave the residence, Fera called after him.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“And Tobi.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Yes.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“I wouldn’t get any ideas about selling the information you’ve learned here. I’ll be watching you.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Tobi swallowed, bowed once more, then raced from the Mochizuki household.

<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt; text-align:center;line-height:150%">

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             The first place Tobi went was to the shrine. He knew she’d be waiting for him. How he’d known was insignificant. All that mattered was she was there; her arms opening wide as if she’d known he was in need of comforting. He held her in his arms, burying his face in her midnight hair. It smelled of lavender, and the scent brought with it an overwhelming sense of peace and serenity.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             He released her, examining the lines of her pale and delicate face. He loved her. The reality of it slammed into him, making his heart race and his skin heat. The way she stared at him with such openness and trust was like a silent invitation. He leaned down and kissed her, slowly at first, but increasing his speed and intensity as she began to respond. He loved the way she opened herself to him. There was no hesitation, no fear. Everything around them melted away, leaving nothing but the love he felt for her. Against his will, he broke off the kiss, pressing his forehead against hers and trying to catch his breath.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “I love you.”   He whispered.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             He heard her breath catch and he pulled back to get a better look at her. She was smiling, but tears poured from her eyes. Tobi panicked, unsure of what he’d done or said to cause such a reaction. Perhaps she didn’t feel the same. The thought alone made his chest tighten and his stomach turn.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “I love you, too.”   She finally said back. “I’ve loved you for so long that I can’t believe fate would bring us together only to tear us apart.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Tear us apart?”   Tobi cupped her face and tried to wipe away her tears. “Why would you say such a thing?”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “I’m a noblewoman and you…”   She looked away from him, her sentence unfinished.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “I’m well aware of our difference in class, Chiyome, but I refuse to let such a thing ruin a chance at true love! I thought you would feel the same!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “I do!”   She argued. “It’s just…”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Just what?!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “I’m getting married.”   She blurted out. “In two weeks’ time, I will be the wife of Mochizuki Nobumasa.”

<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt; text-align:center;line-height:150%">

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Chiyome watched a flurry of emotions cross Tobi’s face, but the one that was unmistakable was pain. Pure, unadulterated pain.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “I’m sorry, Tobi!”   She cried. “I wanted to tell you last night, but…”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “That’s why you were crying.”   Tobi spoke the words with such detachment that it made Chiyome shiver.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “I don’t want him!”   She exclaimed. “I love you! I want to be with you!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Then say no.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “I can’t. My father has already made the arrangements. I have no choice.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             He released her, taking several steps back. Chiyome suddenly felt cold. It was like a wall had formed between them. One she would never be able to climb.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “There is always a choice.”   He replied stiffly. “And if would appear you made yours.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             He turned, leaving her standing alone. Chiyome fell to the ground, her uncontrollable sobs racking her entire body. Kuroki stepped from the shadows. Chiyome hadn’t realized the woman was watching, but when her friend pulled her into her arms and rocked her gently, Chiyome was glad to have her there.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “You did the right thing.”   Kuroki whispered. “It would never have worked. You two are from different worlds. He’ll understand one day.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Chiyome didn’t respond. She simply let Kuroki hold and console her. Tomorrow she would have to be the dutiful fiancée, but right now she needed to mourn the loss of her one true love.

<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt; text-align:center;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             The knock at the door jolted Tobi out of a dreamless sleep. He groaned in agony at the pounding in his head.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Go away!”   He shouted at the door.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Again the knocking came; loud and never-ending.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Damn it!”   Tobi yelled, climbing to his feet. He staggered towards the door and yanked it open. “What?!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Nice to see you, too.”   Rei said sarcastically, pushing past Tobi and into the room.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Tobi immediately shut the door, leaning his aching head against the cool wood. He’d drunk so much sake last night, that his hangover had a hangover.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “You look terrible.”   Rei said, examining him. “And your place is a mess. I know you’re heart-broken and what not, but this,” Rei continued, kicking an empty bottle of sake. “Is a bit extreme.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Go away, Rei.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Now what kind of friend would I be if I left you alone? Especially in such a pathetic state.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Go away, Rei.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “I brought sake.”   Rei said with a smile.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Tobi turned to see the bottle Rei was holding. He walked over and snatched it out of his friend’s hand.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “You’re welcome.”   Rei snickered.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Go away, Rei.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Back to that, huh?”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “I’m not in the mood for this right now.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Which is the problem.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Tobi cut Rei a dirty looked, then poured himself a glass.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “I’m worried about you, Toto-chan. This isn’t like you. So you lost your job; it’s not like you can’t find another. And this woman you told me about; you barely know her. I can introduce you to a hundred women that would easily replace her.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Tobi grabbed Rei’s shirt, practically yanking him off the ground. “She can’t be replaced!”   He hissed. “This might be a difficult concept for you understand, but I love her! I don’t want anyone else but her! Now if you know what’s good for you, you’ll leave before I make you!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Are you happy now?”   Rei asked, looking over at the door.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Tobi followed Rei’s gaze. In the doorway stood a shrine maiden, her chin length brown hair framing a heart-shaped face. She was tall and slender, and though she appeared plain, she moved with a practiced grace that bordered on regal.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Thank you for your assistance, Rei-sama.”   She said with a bow.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “No problem.”   He replied with a slow smile. “You can always reward my efforts with dinner. There’s a place I know…”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Forgive my bluntness, Rei-sama, but that will never happen.”   She turned to Tobi, and bowed once more. “I am a friend of Chiyome. The one you claim to so ardently love. I wanted to be sure of your intentions towards my friend before I offered my assistance.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Assistance?”   Tobi asked in confusion.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Rei slapped Tobi on the back. “Kuroki here came to me a few days ago. She asked for my help in concocting a plan to get you and this Chiyo woman together.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “But Chiyome is getting married.”   Tobi replied. “There’s no way for us to be together.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Rei and Kuroki exchanged a mischievous look.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “I’ll be honest with you, Tobi.”   Kuroki said. “When I first learned of your relationship with Chiyo-chan, I was against it. Her and Mochizuki-sama’s match is a good one. She would be taken care of and would want for nothing.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Then why are you here?”   Tobi sneered.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Because Chiyo-chan has something with you that she will never have with her future husband.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “And what is that?”   Tobi asked.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Love.”   Kuroki replied matter-of-factly. “Now get cleaned up. We have a wedding to stop.”

<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt; text-align:center;line-height:150%">

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             The wedding ceremony would take place tomorrow morning, and to prepare, Chiyome had returned to her father’s house. She sat in her room idly brushing her hair. She examined her reflection in the mirror. She’d lost weight and there were dark circles under her eyes. Though she was desperately trying to put on a good face, she was failing miserably.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Over the past two weeks, she’d tried not to think about Tobi. But the more she tried, the more she thought about him. Finally, she’d broken down and told Kuroki how heart-broken she was. Her friend had offered words of encouragement, then left, telling her to stay strong until she returned. Whatever that meant.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Chiyome placed the brush on the dresser, the turned to get into the bed. She nearly screamed when she saw the man standing outside the window of her room. Tobi!   Her heart leapt with joy. She rushed over, throwing open the window.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Tobi! I thought I’d never see from you again! I’ve missed you so much!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “I've missed you, too.”   He replied, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             He stared at her with such love and adoration that it made her body warm and her heart race. She lost herself in his eyes, leaning out the window to kiss him. Before their lips touched, she jumped back, fear replacing her happiness.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “What are you doing here?!”   She exclaimed. “If you’re caught, my father will…”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Don’t worry.”   He replied reassuringly. “Everything is taken care of.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “What do mean? I don’t understand.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Do you trust me?”   He asked.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Of course!”   She answered without hesitation.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Then get dressed and come with me.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “But…”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Don’t think, just do it!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Without a second thought, Chiyome raced to her wardrobe. She chose an outfit that was warm and comfortable, and that wouldn’t stand out in a crowd. She tied her hair back, then ran back to the window. She climbed out and into Tobi’s arms. He kissed her; rough and passionately. She started to wrap her arms around his neck, but he stopped her.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “We have to go.”   He said in a pained voice. “But when we’re safe, we’ll pick up where we left off.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Then lead the way.”   She replied, her heart filled to bursting with the love she felt for him. “I should like to continue that kiss as soon as possible.”

<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt; text-align:center;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">            3 Days Later…

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Tobi checked out of the inn he and Chiyome were staying in. Rei had planned their entire escape route, providing them plenty of money to get to safety and start a new life. Tobi promised to pay his friend back ever cent, but Rei had adamantly refused. He’d said it was the least he could do to make up for the lifetime of trouble he’d caused Tobi.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Rei and Kuroki had been there to see them out of the city, and for the past 3 days, he and Chiyome had been travelling none stop. They were exhausted, but it was a small price to pay for the chance at a life together.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Tobi grinned happily, waiting for Chiyome outside. They were staying in separate rooms, something she’d vehemently disagreed with, but Tobi had put his foot down. When he took her for the first time, it would be as his wife.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             When Chiyome joined him, he helped her onto her horse and they were on their way. They would stop in a few hours to eat, then start again. Unfortunately, they would be forced to sleep outside for the next few nights. Though Tobi was no stranger to such a thing, he worried about Chiyome. To his surprise, his future bride was a force to be reckoned with. She may look delicate, but she had a strength that rivaled his own; it made him love her all the more.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             A few hours before nightfall, Tobi started looking for a place they could camp for the night.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “How are you feeling?”   Tobi asked Chiyome.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “A bit tired, but I can keep going.”   She drew her horse closer to his and reached out to grab his hand. “What about you?”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “I could do with a rest.”   He replied, taking her offered hand and placing a kiss on her palm. “Let’s get off the main road and find a place to sleep for the night.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Sounds good.”   She replied with a smile.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Sure does.”   A voice called from the tree line.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             The voice had come from a man on the opposite side of the road. As he spoke, several men appeared from behind the trees next to him. Bandits.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">              The attack was so fast, Tobi didn’t have much time to think. His only concern was protecting Chiyome. Fortunately, she proved she didn’t need his protection, and the two of them managed to take down all eight men.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “I had no idea you were so skilled.”   Chiyome said in awe.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “I could say the same thing.”   He replied. “I mean, you told me you could fight, I just didn’t know it was so well. You’ll have to teach me that last move you did on the…”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Tobi’s words were cut off as pain shot through his back. He reached this arm behind him only to feel two more sharp bursts of pain. He stumbled forward, his world violently spinning all the sudden.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Tobi!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             The last thing he heard was Chiyome’s terrified scream. He fell forward, landing in her arms and nearly knocking her over. She was yelling something at him, but all he could hear was the rush of blood in his ears. He stared up at her beautiful face wishing he could focus on it, but as the darkness swooped in greedily, he realized he would never see it again.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “I… love…”

<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt; text-align:center;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Chiyome pulled the poisoned tip knives from Tobi’s back. Her heart was completely shattered; her mind screaming in blind rage. But as she wiped the blood from the blades and placed them in her pocket, her movements remained calm.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Every inch of her revolted at the idea of letting Tobi go, but with strength she hadn’t realized she had, Chiyome pulled herself away. She walked to each and every one of the men who’d attacked her and Tobi, memorizing every detail of their clothing and face.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Something was wrong. She’d known it the moment the bandits arrived. Her first clue was their clothes. Though they appeared plain and cheap, they were in mint condition. It was as if they’d all gone and bought the garments that very same day. Second, they didn’t fight like men who’d been raised on the streets. Instead, they moved with the skill of men who’d trained their entire lives in combat. Third, was the daggers she’d put in her pocket. They were custom made; Chiyome recognized the work, but she couldn’t remember from where. The man who’d thrown them had used the last of his strength to kill Tobi, which brought her to her final clue. The man had intentionally spared her. He had a clear shot and could have easily taken her life, but he didn’t. Why?

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             When Chiyome finished her investigation, she went back to Tobi. She gently kissed him on the forehead, holding him in her arms for a while longer. It wasn’t till after nightfall that she rose again to bury his body.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Leaving the rest of the men where they’d fallen, Chiyome mounted her horse and raced back towards home. She’d come to a single conclusion as she’d buried Tobi’s body. The men had been sent after them. Their goal:   To kill Tobi. Chiyome would find out who was behind it all, and when she did, she would have her revenge.

<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt; text-align:center;line-height:150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Several years later…

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Chiyome sat outside her home, sipping a cup of tea and admiring her garden. It was a particularly beautiful day, and she was enjoying the warm summer breeze. She raised her cup to take another sip, but paused. Sya was approaching. Chiyome placed the cup on the table beside her. Standing to her feet, she walked back inside to await her guest. As predicted, Sya stepped from the shadows bowing deeply to Chiyome.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             “Mistress.”   Sya said, her voice full of reverence. “I bring news from the Battle of Nagashino. Mochiuzki Nobumasa is dead.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Chiyome released a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding. Finally.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             After Tobi’s death, Chiyome returned to her father’s home. Playing the role of dutiful daughter, she married Mochizuki-sama and began her life as his loyal wife. Or so he thought…   It had taken a great deal of time and gold to figure out who’d been responsible for her lover’s death, but when the truth was revealed, Chiyome wasn’t surprised.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Her husband, the great samurai Mochizuki Nobumasa, had plotted and murdered Tobi. He’d learned of her plans to elope with her lover from one of his servants, and had hired men to track them down and kill Tobi. He’d even gone through the trouble of hiring another man to play the role of Good Samaritan and return her safely to him.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             The amount of restraint it took not to slit his throat while they slept, or to poison his food at dinner, was slowly reaching its breaking point. She needed an opening; a way to kill her husband without becoming a suspect. Chiyome plotted and planned, but on the night she was to take Nobumasa’s life, the most unexpected thing occurred. Her husband’ uncle, Takeda Shingen, approached her with a proposition:   Work for me, and I’ll help you exact your revenge.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             At first she’d been suspicious, but when he suggested she have her husband killed in battle, Chiyome decided to entertain his proposition. In the course of a few years, he helped her create an extensive network of agents designed to help further the objectives of the Takeda clan. True to his word, Takeda had helped her plan several attempts on Nobumasa’s life. But it wasn’t until today, two years after her master’s death, that Chiyome was finally able to avenge her beloved Tobi.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             She smiled at Sya. “Thank you.”   She said softly. “You may leave.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:150%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             Sya bowed, then disappeared into the shadows once more. Chiyome picked up a bottle of sake and a cup, returning to her garden. She poured a drink and settled back into her seat. She smiled to herself, trying to remember a day when her sake had ever tasted so sweet…

<p style="text-align: center;">-END-