Chapter 11 Part III: Calm Before the Storm

Kimi huffed indignantly as she glanced at the clock. He told me eight-thirty, Kimi thought. The clock read seven minutes past the designated time.

Glancing at herself in the mirror, she scowled.

"You look fine, Kimi," Orube said, rolling her eyes. "Stop fussing over your scarf!"

Kimi glanced at Orube. "It's not that. He's late."

"It's only been a few minutes."

"Late is still late."

"It could be traffic, though. It did snow a little last night. You know how dangerous slippery roads can be."

Kimi turned away. "I'll give him ten more minutes. If he doesn't show up then, I'm canceling this date."

Orube took a sip from her green tea and gave Kimi a look. "You're trying to back out," she said, giving her an accusing look, her lips curling into a grin, Chesire cat style. "Are you that scared?"

"No! What do I have to be afraid of?"

"You like him," Orube said simply. "Admit it."

Kimi said nothing and turned away again. Orube had to admit she was doing a good job of hiding her embarrassment. "I…don't not like him. But Kishimoto-kun can be…galling."

Orube chuckled. The other Guardians were right: watching Kimi getting all worked up over a boy is fun to watch. In all the times she had known the Watuski twins, Kimi had been cold and guarded. Seeing her dropping down her walls had been a nice change.

Another moment of silence passed before the doorbell rang.

"That must be him," Orube glanced at the clock again. "Oh, look. Only ten minutes late. Not too bad, right?"

Kimi sighed and got up to answer the door, and was immediately met by a bouquet of flowers being shoved up her nostrils.

"Hey," Koji greeted with his usual smirk. "Good morning." Kimi crossed her arms, not in the least bit amused. "Uh-oh. What did I do now?"

"That thing around your arm? What is it?" Kimi glanced at his wrist.

"My wristwatch?"

"And what do you normally use it for?"

Koji raised a dubious eyebrow, then laughed. "You're angry because I was late."

"Well, at least you're as smart as you are good at kicks and throws," Kimi said, breathing as much sarcasm into her words as she could muster.

"Sorry, but I had to drive slower on Elm Street. It was really slippery there," Koji explained. Kimi could feel Orube was mouthing an I-told-you-so. Koji handed her the bouquet. "Here. For you."

Kimi sighed exasperatedly, but she silently accepted the gift, nonetheless. "Thank you," she said simply. Studying the flowers, she realized they were of different kinds. Not that they were ugly, but she gave him a perplexed look, wondering why he didn't choose the same flowers as the last.

"What? After what you did to the last bouquet, I couldn't risk giving you the same kind again," Koji smirked. "So, are you going to invite me in or not?"

Kimi gave him a look but nodded and invited him in. She went to the sink to fill up a crystal vase, setting the lilies and irises in them. "I'm going to get my coat," she said before heading up the stairs.

Koji nodded and after taking off his shoes, he noticed Orube watching their exchange curiously from the kitchen counter and gave her a polite bow. "Kishimoto Koji. Nice to meet you."

"Likewise. I'm Rebecca Rudolph."

Koji raised an eyebrow. "Rudolph? You wouldn't by chance be related to the previous math teacher at Sheffield Institute?"

"I'm her niece."

"Funny how she'd never mentioned you," Koji crossed his arms. There was something about this girl that he felt strange, almost alien, like Kimi in a sort.

Realizing she was being scrutinized, Orube guarded her reaction and chose her next words carefully. There's something off about him, Orube thought. She felt it during the Winter Tournament, but to her great frustration, she couldn't figure out what it was. Before and during his match against Kimi, her instinct was giving off just the barest hint of a warning. But what's so dangerous about an Earth boy—other than the fact that he can be a little too observant and he could discover their secrets? Better tread carefully then.

"We weren't that close. I'd barely met her." A version of the truth. "And you? Did you take any of her math classes?"

Koji shook his head. "I was only a volunteer helping the kids in Kimi's Martial Arts Club, but it looks like she's doing a better job than I ever had." There was a pause between them. Orube took another tentative sip of her tea as she watched the boy. Koji glanced around, pretending to admire the home décor. "So, what relations do you have with Kimi?"

"What is it to you?"

Koji raised an eyebrow, not missing the guarded tone. "Well, clearly you're not related as there are no resemblances."

"We're childhood friends, you could say," Orube replied. "I've visited Kimi's family several times before in Japan."

"I see. And what about that other woman?"

"What woman?"

"Kimi's host parent? You know, the one where my little sister called her a dragon lady?"

Orube's fingers on her cup tightened ever so slightly. "She's on a bereavement leave."

Koji opened his mouth, but then decided against it. It was then that Kimi's footsteps caught his ears and he turned to see her coming down the stairs. He said nothing of her looks overall. He didn't need to. He ran into Kimi enough times to know that she doesn't need constant praises from the opposite sex to feel satisfied about herself.

"I'm ready," she announced, adjusting the shoulder strap of her bag. Turning to Orube, she added, "Rebecca, I'm off. Don't wait up for me."

Orube nodded and got up to see them both out the door. Quietly, she placed a hand on Kimi's shoulder and whispered, "Be careful around him." Kimi blinked, slightly perplexed. "He's cute, but he can also be a bit too perceptive. Wouldn't want him to know of our secrets, right?"

Kimi said nothing but nodded all the same before joining Koji. He smiled, handing her a helmet and gesturing her towards the back seat.

"Your carriage awaits, princess," he teased, giving her that annoying yet attractive smirk of his.

Kimi rolled her eyes and huffed exasperatedly. "Shut up and drive. Remember, I expect to be entertained."

"Whatever you say," Koji shrugged and revved the engine to life. Without another word, they sped down the street.


They arrived in a gated community on top of a hill. Looking around, it was clearly an affluent neighborhood with chic modern-style houses, each with well-trimmed hedges and trees. From up here, the view was spectacular. Kimi could see Heatherfield and the ocean below. In the distance, skyscrapers clustered together in a group. Despite the dark snow clouds above, there was enough sunlight to reflect on their windows, making these skyscrapers shine like silver bars. A faint foghorn caught her attention and Kimi turned to see a tugboat pulling a cruise ship coming in from the sea.

"You have an impressive view," Kimi said.

"One of the perks of living up here, I guess," Koji shrugged, his tone somewhat passive as if the view no longer has its desired effect. "I hope you don't mind if we make a stop at my house first," Koji said, pulling the motorcycle in the driveway. "My band mates asked me to bring them a few things. We'll meet up with them right after this."

"As long as it doesn't take too much time," Kimi replied, following him to the front door.

The house itself was very impressive. It was larger than Cornelia's condo, with slick black roof tiles and white walls, and more expensive than all their homes combined. Kimi wondered what Koji's mother does for a living. No doubt someone of great importance to be able to afford a place like this, she thought. Whether it's on Earth or Lusteria, wealth is apparent in the homes. Still, quite an impressive feat for a single mother of three children, even by Lusterian standard.

"Please come in," said Koji.

Kimi silently took off her boots and followed him into the living room. The interior design was spacious and modern as the outside. The coffee table was made of glass and crystal, while the chairs and sofas were sleek white as the entirety of the room. In contrast, a shiny, black grand piano sat near the glass doors. There were several decorative objects that reflected the Kishimoto family's eastern roots. On the walls hung several scrolls with martial art proverbs written in the most beautiful calligraphy Kimi had ever seen. Next to them were a series of Japanese woodblock prints, that make a whole scenery when placed together.

Those mountains and that ocean—It's Edo! Kimi realized, but then admonished herself. Of course, it's not my Edo. This must be the Edo of Earth's Japan from a hundred years ago.

"Make yourself at home," Koji said. "It may take me a few minutes to find what I'm looking for."

Kimi watched him disappear down the hall, having decided to admire the décor while she waits. She passed the grand piano and curiously lifted the lid and played a few random keys. She smiled when she saw colors dancing in the air. It was as if the music was alive to emit its own aura.

Closing the lid, Kimi made her way to the scrolls. The calligraphy was gorgeous, but practically ineligible. Squinting her eyes, she could only make out two words. "Gyokuryuu…the pearl dragon?" Kimi blinked, wondering why that sounded so familiar.

Suddenly, something caught her attention. She turned and saw an alcove. In it were five Japanese swords on a lacquered rack, displayed artfully and with great reverence as if they were to be worshiped. Each sword was of different length and degree of curvature, some have more elaborated sheaths than the other, but the blades themselves were magnificently crafted.

These were no ordinary decorations. They were real weapons forged by some of the best sword smiths of an era long ago. Having been trained by her maternal grandfather, a famous samurai, Kimi recognized them all: Tachi, odachi, wakizashi, tanto, and katana. Carefully, Kimi brushed her finger on the handle.

There's real history in these swords, she realized.

As Kimi stroked the smallest blade, the tanto, she sensed it was once carried by an attendant of a samurai, and it had been used for cutting off the heads of his lord's fallen enemies on the battlefield.

How gory and barbaric, she thought, glad that Lusterian samurai had abandoned such customs long ago.

She then touched the wakizashi and its aura told her it was once forged by one of Japan's famous sword smiths, Fujiwara Masazane, commissioned for a son of a samurai warlord during the late Sengoku period. Unfortunately, the son died at sea and the sword was one of the few items recovered from the wreckage washed ashore. It was returned to his sister, a female samurai, who used it to help defend a castle from a nightly siege. Unfortunately, she was slain in battle herself, but was nevertheless hailed as a great hero amongst her clan.

Loyal, brave, and true onto death, Kimi thought sadly.

Finally, her gaze fell on the last piece, the katana, and she couldn't look away. Out of all the swords on the alter, it appeared to be the oldest, its sheath was severely worn and scratched. There was a simple tassel tied to the end cap of the hilt, dangling innocently against the backdrop. The handle itself was black, but the ito cloth binding was white, twisted back and forth to form a row of diamond-shaped spaces. In between the fifth diamond near the sword's crossguard, was a small metal ornament. Kimi squinted her eyes to focus on the detail, but she couldn't make out the strange symbol. It either looked like a flower or the sun. A symbol of the Kishimoto's clan from centuries ago perhaps?

Overall, this sword was masterfully forged, and no doubt it had seen many battles during its lifetime. Despite looking like any other ordinary katana; Kimi couldn't help but felt drawn to it all the same. Like the grand piano, it was humming to her ever so softly, beckoning her to touch and read its aura, its long history—for it had so much to tell. So many battles. So much sorrow and joy. So full of memories of a forgotten era, ready to be felt and relived. The idea of just grabbing it by the handle would leave her feeling empowered beyond imagination.

Tempted, Kimi lifted her hand. I can hear you, she thought, her fingers inching closer. What is it you want me to see? What stories do you want to share?

"Please, don't touch that! It's an antique!" cried a voice behind her.

Startled out of her trance, Kimi turned her head up the stairs to see Koji—no, not Koji. His face is the exact same, but his clothes, his expression, his gentle demeanor, and his dark aura—this was Koji's older brother, Kishimoto Koichi. He strode down the stairs, looking quite handsome in his black jeans and grey turtleneck sweater. In his hands were music sheets. She had been so fixated on the sword that she didn't notice him coming in.

"Watsuki-san?" Koichi blinked, completely surprised to see her. "What are you doing here?"

"Your brother brought me here," Kimi said, averting her gaze.

Koichi blinked and raised an eyebrow in surprise. "Koji did? Oh…"

"He told me wait here while he's getting something."

Koichi studied her a bit before giving her a crestfallen look. "I see…I guess Koji has beaten me—" he paused, his cheeks turning a light shade of pink before ducking behind his music sheets.

Kimi smiled a little. It was pointless trying to hide his true feelings from her. She'd suspected he took a liking to her long before Koji had, but had been too shy to ask her directly. The closest he had ever gotten to was inviting her to his orchestra performance weeks ago. She'd appreciated Koichi's kind gesture. Unlike his brother, Koichi had come out of his way to see her when he heard she was depressed and ill.

Kishimoto Koichi was a kind and gentle soul, like a fluttering bird with a quiet and shy demeanor—a stark contrast to his brother's outspoken and bolder temperament. Even his aura was the exact opposite: dark as the night with flecks of whispery indigo feathers and grey smoke—and so like Kyochi's.

Kimi frowned, recalling the first time she ran into Koichi in the plaza months ago. Having mistaken his aura for her brother's, she shoved him and ran away, only to bump into his twin mere minutes later. Despite the fleeting encounters, she had left a quite an impression on both brothers. She had nothing against the gentle and reserved Koichi. But everything about him, from his aura to his demeanor, are a painful reminder of Kyochi's situation. At best, she would be cordial and kind to him in return. He has done nothing to deserve her contempt.

"It's nice to see you again, Watsuki-san," he smiled, lowering his music sheets. "I am glad to see you feeling better."

"Arigato gozaimasu, Kishimoto. It was thoughtful of you to visit me during my bereavement period."

"You do not have to thank me. I wanted to see if you—Pardon me, I mean—if it's not too much trouble, please call me Koichi." He paused, wondering if he was overstepping formality. "Since you're already referring to my brother by his first name, and I wouldn't want you to mistake us for the other."

Kimi blinked then giggled. There was certainly no way she would mistake these two brothers for the other, no matter how much they looked alike.

"As you wish, Koichi, but only if you would do the same for me and without the honorific." Koichi's eyes widen, and before he could backtrack and protest, Kimi continued, "I would like to thank you for inviting me and my friends to your performance. You played beautifully. Regrettably, I cannot recall most of it." It wasn't exactly a lie, since she had to through the mysterious dark portal right beneath his feet to save her friends when they were spirited away to Annam!

"We are putting on another performance this weekend for the Winter Festival," Koichi's eyes lit up. "And we're also collaborating with Jensen's dancers for their interpretation for The Snow Queen."

"Oh, my friend Taranee is the protagonist! The other girls and I will be attending. Perhaps we will be able to catch your other show, as well."

"Really? That would be wonderful!" Koichi smiled, rifling through his music sheet. "Then, on behalf of the Heatherfield Philharmonic, we will play our souls and hearts out." Silence slipped in between them again. "I haven't seen you since our last performance, Watsu—I mean, Kimi."

Kimi smiled apologetically. "I'm sorry, Koichi. My friends and I have been preoccupied."

"But not enough for you to run into my brother," Koichi smiled, but Kimi could sense a tinge of bitterness in his aura. "May I offer you my congratulation on winning silver during the Winter Tournament."

Kimi blinked, surprised. "You heard of the match?"

"I saw it, actually, at least the last three matches. I rushed over as quickly as I could from my rehearsal to watch my brother. Imagine my surprise when I saw you and him paired up for the final. You were exceptionally good."

"Koichi, please. You don't have to be polite about it."

"What do you mean?" Koichi tilted his head. "Even Koji said so himself when he got home. All he talked about these past few days was how good you were. I don't think I have heard him praise an opponent this much."

Kimi stared at him incredulously. "What…what did Koji say, exactly?"

Before Koichi could answer, a little girl appeared out of nowhere and flung herself at him.

"Nii-chan!" she cried, looking up at him pleadingly. "I want to go to Lilian's house and play."

Koichi looked down at her and smiled, gently stroking her hair. "Kohane-chan, what about your cold?"

"I'm better now. Mommy says so," she sniffed and rubbed her nose. Koichi gave her a skeptical look but said nothing. Noticing Kimi from the corner of her eyes, Kohane blinked at her curiously before giving her a curtsy.

Kimi smiled. "Ohayo, Kohane-chan."

"Ohayogozaimasu, Kimi-neesan," Kohane said. "Why are you here?"

"Your brother Koji has offered himself to become my escort throughout town today."

Kohane tilted her head to the side before glancing up at her brother. She seemed almost confused. "I thought you asked her out, Koichi-niichan. Didn't you said that you like her, too?" A mortified expression painted his face as his cheeks flushed red, but Kohane kept going as if she hadn't noticed. "You waited so long that you let Koji-niisan beat you to her—"

Koichi's aura flared, screaming for the ground to swallow him up. "Kohane!" Koichi cried, quickly picking her up in his arms. "Why don't I take you Christmas shopping today?"

"But I thought you have rehearsal, Nii-chan—"

"Then you can come and watch me play the violin, okay?" Turning to face Kimi, he said in a flustered manner. "Gomen, Kimi…I…um…have to go. Perhaps I'll see you during our next show?"

"Koichi, wait!" Kimi said, but he was already rushing down the hall, carrying his little sister with him. Kimi wanted to stop him, to tell him that she didn't think any less of him and he shouldn't be embarrassed. Especially now that she's going out with his brother.

As if on cue, Koji appeared just as his twin was passing him. "Hi, Nii-san! Hey, where are you going?"

Koichi didn't answer him as he forcibly pushed himself passed by, their shoulders brushing against each other roughly before he and Kohane disappeared behind a room. A few seconds later, they could hear a violin being played. Koji frowned, wondering why his brother was mad at him. He turned to Kimi, eyebrows raised. "What happened?"

"Your sister just embarrassed him in front of me," Kimi sighed.

Koji looked as if he wanted to cringe. "Kohane-chan…not again," he hissed quietly, more to himself than at Kimi. "Sorry about that. Kohane's just being her usual weird self."

If by weird, you mean being able to see into people's hearts and voicing their painful truths? Kimi thought.

"Anyway, sorry for making you wait. Took me a while to find what I needed. I hope you weren't bored."

Kimi shook her head. "No, I was just admiring your family's sword collection when Koichi joined me."

"The swords?" Koji blinked, then glanced at the alcove. "You didn't touch the katana, did you?" Kimi shook her head.

Suddenly, the door next to the entertainment room opened, startling them both. In stepped a tall woman; dark hair, dark blue eyes, and an intimidating violet-white aura pulsating. She wore a dark navy-blue office suit, its color matching her briefcase held in one hand and a winter coat in the other. Clearly, she was about to attend a conference.

Realizing she wasn't alone, the woman arched an eyebrow. "Koji, I thought you had left this morning."

Koji shrugged. "Just dropping by to pick up a few things for my band."

The woman nodded, then she noticed the two of them standing a little too close to the alcove for her liking. Placing her things on the sofa, she gave Koji a small, disapproving frown, placing both hands on her hips. "Koji, I hope you weren't showing off to your little friend. How many times must I tell you not to go anywhere near the katana?"

"Kaa-san, relax! We didn't touch your sword! Right, Kimi?" he glanced at her.

"Kimi?" Koji's mother narrowed her eyes as she came closer.

Kimi's heart was racing as she unintentionally lowered her gaze. She couldn't understand why she was so nervous all of a sudden. Koji's mother has such a commanding and fierce aura that it exuded an overwhelming feeling, making Kimi feel like a small and frightened child. She hadn't felt like this in years. No one in her own family, not even her hateful elders, could get her to feel this nervous. Was this what it felt like to be scolded by a stern mother?

Calm yourself! Kimi thought. There's nothing to be afraid of from this Earthling woman. Her heart eventually softened to a steady pace, albeit hesitantly as if it didn't believe her. With steady breaths, Kimi maintained enough composure to face this woman.

"Kaa-san, this is Watsuki Kimi, the girl I told you and Nii-san about. She's also my date. Kimi, this is my mom, Kishimoto Konan. She's an attorney."

Kimi glanced up at the woman and was breathless: Konan was beautiful, almost as lovely as her late mother, Kotone, if not a little more intimidating. Konan's long dark hair was tied up neatly in a bun held together with silver hair sticks. Despite wearing a pair of spectacles, behind them her dark blue eyes were like a raging sea storm. Konan scrutinized her, her eyes glinted and her aura flickered as if agitated and shocked all at once. Her face paled as if she'd seen a ghost, but it only lasted for a moment. Still, Kimi thought it was quite perplexing. She was certain she had never met this woman before, so why does being near her make her feel so uneasy?

"Ohayogozaimasu, Kishimoto-bengoshi," Kimi bowed respectfully. "It is nice to meet you. And gomen'nasai," she bowed even lower in humiliation. "Pardon for my intrusion into your home. Don't be so harsh on Koji. I didn't touch your katana, but I have for the other swords. I didn't mean any harm. I was simply admiring them."

Konan continued to study her for a bit before her stern expression softened and a small smile curled on her lips. "Well, I appreciate your honesty, Kimi-chan. And please, Kishimoto-san is fine. And as for the swords, I'll let it slide this once since you are our guest."

"Mom, you're scaring her," Koji mumbled.

"Hardly," Konan laughed. "From what you told me of her, Kimi-chan here doesn't seem like the type to be scared off easily. As a matter of fact, she looked like she could scare a few criminals into confessing with just a glare."

Not what she expected, but Kimi couldn't help but smile. Suddenly, Konan reached out a hand and tilted her chin up. Kimi blinked, startled. "Forgive me for starring, dear, but you are gorgeous. And you resembled a childhood friend of mine back in Kyoto," Konan sighed with melancholy. Kimi nodded politely, her face turning just small shade of pink. "Despite your different eye colors, the resemblance is uncanny. And your name—it means noble or empress. The way you carry yourself, it's quite fitting. Tell me, do you have any other siblings?"

Kimi nodded hesitantly. "Two, but one died before I was born. The other is my older twin brother, Kyochi-niisan. He's currently…back home in Nihon." Kimi turned away, refusing to say anymore.

"And your parents?"

"Dead. We lived with our maternal uncle and his family until recently."

"I see…How unfortunate that you and I both lost the people we loved," Konan said sadly. Kimi glanced back up at her in surprised. Her aura shimmered softly, indicating a genuine feeling of shared pain. "Do not despair, Kimi. There are moments of pain and suffering in our lives, but also of joy and love. Like the yin and yang, things will eventually balance themselves out. Do not think that your life is only full of despair. If you have the courage to seek it, you may find peace and happiness."

Kimi's heart swelled with emotion. "Kishimoto-san?"

"Kaa-san, if you're done imparting wisdom on us, I would like to take Kimi out on our date," Koji said, handing his mother her briefcase and winter coat. "And besides, you'll be late for your meeting."

"Of course, dear," Konan said. Turning to Kimi, she said, "Forgive me, Kimi-chan, but I must go. Judge Cook is expecting me. It was lovely to meet you. I hoped Koji will bring you around more often. You're the first girl he brought home, which means he's completely smitten by you—"

"Mom! It is not like that! We're just going out to see if we like each other!" Koji moaned, glaring at her, but she just smirked triumphantly at him.

Kimi smiled and once again bowed respectfully. "Thank you for having me, Kishimoto-san. I bid you a pleasant day."

"As does yours," Konan smiled, taking her coat and briefcase and walked them out the door.

"Your mother's nice," said Kimi, smiling. "But also quite intimidating."

"Pray that you don't ever have to debate or argue against her in court," Koji said. Without waiting for her to reply, he shoved the equipment he retrieved into the storage compartment of his seat and revved the engine to life. "C'mon. Now that you've met my family, time to meet my band mates."


The snow was falling softly outside as Kimi sat in the comfort of a warm and welcoming restaurant. Koji had gone to the bathroom after Kimi had accidentally spilled hot tea on his sleeves. Kimi sighed and glanced out the window to watch the city, her mind contemplating on the morning she just had.

After meeting his family, Koji drove her to a recording studio where he and his band mates rented a room for rehearsal. There, Kimi learned that Koji is a guitarist and the lead singer of the popular, but also elusive, band New Moon. As their name suggested, they rarely perform live. Being college students laden with part-time jobs and endless schoolwork, music is only their common interest to relax and vent out steam. Still, Blue Moon's albums became popular locally and their rare performances made them more attractive to fans and newcomers. Kimi suspected their elusiveness wasn't the only thing that drew interests as she remembered the group of fanatic girls chasing after her and Koji a few weeks ago when they made their escape on his motorbike. Earthlings are so strange, she thought to herself.

After bringing the missing equipment his friends had asked for, Koji introduced Kimi to his band mates. Their stunned expressions upon seeing her were quite comical. Although he has a fan club, Koji had never taken an interest in dating girls. It had gone for so long that some of his band mates began to suspect he was gay. Koji scoffed at their assumption and claimed he hadn't met a girl interesting enough. Of course, they thought this was an excuse and saw Koji as simply too much of a lone wolf to care. So, when Koji said he was bringing his date, they assumed he was joking.

"Guys, this is Watsuki Kimi, the girl I told you about. Kimi, these are my band mates. The guy with the lame black eyeshadow over there is Malcolm. He's our keytar player, but he mostly plays the electric keyboard—"

"What a thing to say, mate! I'll have you know me eyeshadows are fabulous!" Malcolm retorted, winking at Kimi. He spoke in a strange accent, which Kimi later learned was Australian.

Koji shrugged off Malcolm's teasing before continuing. "Over there is Owen and next to him is Aaron—" he pointed to the two boys fiddling with their guitars. One was taller than the rest of them with dark skin and dreadlocks like Taranee's brother, while the other was fair with blonde hair, "—They're both on bass. Aaron also sings on occasion—"

"Occasion my ass!" Aaron, the blonde one, grinning, his teeth flashing. He turned to Kimi, "Don't listen to this guy. He's just trying to act cool in front of you. I do lead sing nearly half of our songs to date if you must know." Own snickered, which earned a glare from Aaron.

Kimi smiled and glanced at Koji. "It's good to know that I'm not the only one who thinks you're an arrogant know-it-all."

"I'm truthful, not arrogant. Can I help it if other people aren't up to my level?"

"And what level would that be? Being the most charming or the most impertinent? If it's the later, you are most certain way up there indeed."

The others' eyes widen as they oohed in unison.

"Wow, she's as snide as you are, Kishimoto," said the fourth member.

Kimi turned to see a blonde girl sitting behind a set of large drums. She was wearing black from head to foot, from her leather jacket to the boots. Even her makeup and the ends of her hairs were colored darkly. Her appearance oozes a blend of goth and punk, but her aura was of a serene yellow. Realizing she was being starred at, the drummer gave Kimi an amused smirk.

"See something you like, girl? Take a picture and burn it into your eyeballs. But don't ask me to sign an autograph."

"Watch it, Alice," Koji warned.

Normally, a comment like that would scare anyone off. But not Kimi. "If your music is as bad as your attitude, it's a wonder how you're still so well loved by the public," she said.

Alice gave Kimi a withering look, but then it subsided into a bemused smile. "So, you're not just a pretty face silver medalist, aren't you?"

Kimi narrowed her eyes. "Against you, I'm sure I'd win a thousand gold ones. Perhaps, enough to smelt it down into a coffin so I can bury Koji in it for being a smartass. Care to help by digging his grave?"

Alice blinked, then laughed, surprising everyone. Turning to Koji, she said, "Here I thought you just hate girls in general, but I guess it takes one as snide and twisted as her to interest you!"

"Oh, piss off, Alice!"

Alice flicked one of her drumsticks at him in response. Thanks to his martial arts reflex, he caught it deftly in one hand.

"Watch it, Koji, there are two ladies present," said Owen. "And it looks like both of them aren't afraid to throw you to the ground if you get on their bad sides!"

Alice winked at Kimi and said, "I think you and I are going to get along swimmingly."

"Enough chitchat, are we gonna practice or not?" Malcolm asked.

"Sorry, guys, but I only have time for two songs," Koji said. Turning to Kimi, he asked, "Why don't you take a seat over there and watch us rehearse."

"I don't think I'm into this kind of music," said Kimi.

"Really? You didn't seem displeased when you listened to me practice in front of the Heatherfield Musical Hall that day." Kimi blushed and wanted to smack him. Koji picked up a guitar and adjusted his microphone. "I know that you're not into Karmilla's grunge songs, but ours is a little different. And besides," he gave her a look, "our date is about me showing you new things around Heatherfield, remember? That includes trying out new things like listening to our songs."

Kimi shook her head in defeat. Honestly, this boy, she thought as she took a seat.

"Let's play the song "Flight" first. Ready guys?" Koji turned to his friends. They nodded and Alice began to click her drumsticks together to indicate a starting point.

The song was wonderful, filled with sadness and hope; its lyrics touched Kimi's heart in a way she hadn't thought possible. The song tells of two hearts connected by love, but one heart yearned and mourned for the other when it was taken by death. It flew far and wide, searching its missing half but instead found new hope and meaning based on a love that was never gone.

The next song, "From the Beginning", was just as good if not better, even with Aaron taking the lead halfway in. Blue Moon's music was unlike anything Kimi had heard before. It wasn't as grungy as Irma's precious rock star Karmilla, or as classical as Koichi's violin, or even traditional as Kimi playing on the koto.

It was something else entirely. Full of color and life as she watched all five members' auras blending and dancing in the air to the music.

"Sorry for taking so long," Koji said, returning to his seat. Kimi's attention snapped back to the present. Glancing around, she remembered they were now waiting for their food in a restaurant. "Nii-san called me, asking if I had misplaced Kohane's doll while playing with her yesterday."

"It's fine, our food isn't here yet," she said.

"The wait may be a bit long, but the food is worth it, trust me."

Kimi shrugged nonchalantly. "If you say so."

Koji studied her for a bit, taking notice of the smallest tenseness in her posture. She was still miffed about something. "Okay, spill it. What's the matter?"

Kimi eyed him with a slight annoyance. "I wished you hadn't gotten your friends to pressure me into singing before we left! You could have warned me!"

"What?" Koji asked innocently, but the annoying smile on his face indicated how pleased he was with the outcome. "Alice is still recovering from her sore throat. Since you're such a good singer yourself, I'd thought it be nice if you sing her part for at least one song."

"I barely knew the song!" Kimi retorted. "You and your friends probably got a good laugh when I messed up two verses!"

"No, we didn't. C'mon, you did pretty well…for a choking songbird—" Kimi's piercing blue eyes turned poisonous, "—Relax, I'm teasing! You're always so tense!"

"And you're borderline vexing me!"

"What can I say? It's part of my charm."

Kimi humphed and turned away.

"Oh, don't be like that, princess. Jokes aside, you were really good. The others most certainly thought so. Even Alice was impressed, and it's not easy to get her to smile approvingly. You managed it twice in less than half an hour."

Kimi glanced back at him. "Do I get a gold medal for such an achievement?" she asked sarcastically.

Koji laughed. "No, but I think they're going to consider asking you to join Blue Moon."

Kimi's eyes widen. "Join your group?"

"Why not? Don't you like the feel of it?"

Kimi lowered her gaze. "I didn't hate it, but I've only ever sung for myself and never before an audience."

"Well, you could start out as a guest singer to see how you like it." Kimi nodded hesitantly. "Why don't you think on it? In the meantime, we could talk about something else."

"Like?"

"Well, what did you think of our morning so far?"

Kimi thought for a moment. "I'll admit, it was interesting to meet your family and friends."

Koji sipped his tea, looking pleased. "Glad to see that they didn't bore you."

"Far from it. Your siblings are interesting, especially your little sister."

Koji grimaced. "So, you've noticed?"

Kimi rested her chin on her hands. "It's hard to forget when she perceived my strained relationship with my late father several weeks ago."

"Sorry. Look, Kohane's still a little kid, and you know they don't come with filters over their mouths. They'll speak bluntly—"

Kimi giggled. "So do we."

"Point taken, but Kohane doesn't understand that things she knows about people shouldn't be voiced out loud.."

"Perhaps she's an empath?" Kimi suggested.

Koji snorted, nearly choking on his tea. "Seriously? You think my sister has a paranormal ability to understand people's feelings?" Kimi said nothing, her face remaining neutral as ever. "I didn't think you would be into fantasy or sci-fi."

I don't need to when I am magic, Kimi thought. But she decided to veer the topic somewhere else. "Your brother is very sweet. Are you two close?"

Koji nodded. "Of course, he's my older twin brother, after all. We used to do everything together before Kohane was born."

Kimi raised an eyebrow. "You don't anymore?"

"We're still close, but we developed different interests over time, especially in music. I started to play with Dad's old guitar while Koichi loves playing the violin and the classics. Our parents let him take lessons and he became incredibly good at it. Our parents hired some of the best violinists to teach him. You know that violin of his? It's a Stradivarius. It's priceless and was gifted to him by his last sensei before he died. Anyway, the next thing we knew, Koichi-niisan was noticed by several bigwigs in the industry, and after he gave several performances, they labeled him a child prodigy. When we moved here, he applied for the music program at the university and was immediately recruited for the Heatherfield Philharmonic Orchestra."

"And you? Are you majoring in music at your university?"

"No, forensic science, actually," Koji said. Kimi's interest perked. Not an answer she expected. "Don't get me wrong, being in a band is great and all, but it's more of an outlet to let out steam and frustration. I'm hoping to work in criminal investigation." He paused and tilted his head. "What about you?"

Kimi blinked. "What about me?"

"You're still in high school, right? Any idea what you will major in when you enter university?"

The question surprised Kimi as she'd never considered it. Her family is powerful and wealthy, so she'd never had to worry about money. Her role as a Guardian had kept her busy these past three years. Aside from that and training, she'd always spent her free time in the traditional arts, from playing her koto to writing poetry. Kyochi, on the other hand, already decided to attend university and become a doctor like their mother. But what about her? What would she do if she was just a regular earth girl about to go to college?

"I'm not quite sure yet," Kimi said honestly. "Perhaps politics like my uncle."

"Still undecided, huh?"

Before Kimi could answer, a waiter arrived, laden with a huge tray with their food. "Here we are, table seven: two bowls of miso soup, one large bowl of Kansai style udon and one bowl of Yamanashi special houtou noodles. Enjoy!"

The two of them decided to put a pause on their conversation to enjoy their food. As the waiter placed the bowl of udon in front of Kimi, she suddenly felt ravenous.

"Itadakimasu," said Koji, picking up his chopsticks. "Dig in."

"Itadakimasu," Kimi nodded as she picked up her own utensils.

The broth was so clear she could see to the bottom of the bowl! And the taste was subtle, but delicious. Kimi smiled and began to eat with relish.

Koji stared at her, impressed at how much she could eat yet still looked dignified while doing it. "I didn't think you would be this hungry!" he laughed.

"The udon is good," Kimi replied simply. "I never realized how much I missed eating Japanese food."

"You haven't had any since you came to Heatherfield?"

Kimi shook her head. "My host mother only knows how to cook Vietnamese dishes," she said, remember the Earth's version of Annam. "Not that they're bad, but—"

"—it makes you missed the type of food you grew up eating after one too many bowls of ph?, huh?"

Kimi smiled and nodded. Pausing on her udon, she gently picked up her miso soup and sipped tentatively. "I'm surprised at how authentic the food here is."

Koji swallowed his houtou noodle and gave her a pleasant smile. "Aren't you glad that you decided to explore this city with me? Otherwise, you wouldn't have known about this restaurant if you had stayed cooped up at home."

Kimi paused, placing her bowl down and picking up her chopsticks again to resume her udon. "I supposed Heatherfield does have a lot of surprises," she answered thoughtfully.

"Trust me, this is just one of them. After this, I know a few places that might interest you."

After the restaurant, Koji brought Kimi to a large music store in a shopping plaza. There, he showed her how to listen to music samples, from classic rocks on vinyl records to the latest top 100 songs on CDs and mp3 players. Koji showed her the CDs his band released thus far as well as the classical ones with his brother on the cover. (Cornelia wasn't kidding when she said the Heatherfield Philharmonic Orchestra is still quite popular around here.)

They left the store, both in a good mood. To Kimi's own surprised, she bought a few discs herself. Sure, two of them were from Koji's band, but she also stumbled upon something called Broadway musical. When asked, Koji seemed perplexed, but he told her that Broadway is like kabuki where actors dressed up for a story they're performing, but it also involve a lot of singing.

They took walks around town, with Koji introducing her to some very interesting places, ranging from sweet shops, boutiques, and even the local park where people were holding an ice-carving contest. Kimi marveled at how intricately detailed the sculptures were and was in awe at the miniature ice-palace they set up to attract tourists.

There was a moment of annoyance when they were interrupted by Koji's fan club. The girls spotted their favorite singer and started to give chase, hoping for his autographs and handshakes. When they spotted Kimi, their antics turned almost into a jealous rage. They wailed and shrieked in dismay, demanding to know who she was and what the hell she was doing with their precious singer. Koji hissed in annoyance and tried to guide Kimi through an ice-maze to escape them. Much to his surprise, Kimi took the lead and pulled him through the labyrinth and straight to the second exit where they ended up at an ice rink. (It pays to be an auraseer and sense their coming auras from all sides.) The group of fanatics crashed into the other skaters, giving the young couple enough time to escape.

Once they made it back to where Koji parked his bike, they shared an amuse glance and burst into laughter. Kimi had never had this much fun with a boy before, not even her own brother!

"I'm starting to think I should take you with me whenever I go out! You really know how to lose those crazy fan girls!"

Kimi smirked. "Really? And here I thought you were doing such a good job last time." Kimi straightened herself and waited for Koji to start the engine again before getting on the blasted thing herself. "You're getting slow in your old age," she teased.

"Don't you start," Koji huffed, passing Kimi her helmet.

"So, where to next?"

Koji glanced at his wristwatch, making a note how much daylight they still have. "One more spot on our itinerary," he said. "It's a little outside of the city, but I saved the best for last."


"You're not getting tired, are you, princess?" Koji asked, offering her a hand.

Annoyed, Kimi huffed at him, but took his hand anyway. The climb has been pretty rocky so far. Kimi wished she could just use her magic and change her boots to something more fitting for such a hike. At least Koji didn't offend her by asking why she had to wear such high maintenance foot wears.

"I'm not tired," Kimi said. "But are we almost there? I'm asking before we're losing daylight."

"Don't worry, we'll make it. And it's only about another five minute from here," Koji said. "Watch your step," he warned. He turned and continued the climb with Kimi right behind him. He took a quick glance over his shoulder. So far, Kimi hasn't complained about the trek, and she was doing a pretty decent job despite wearing those boots. No doubt her martial arts experience enabled her ready enough for such an activity. That girl's something, he thought. It wouldn't be surprising if she can still fight in a match while wearing six-inch-stilettos.

After about three minutes of climbing, they finally reached the top of the hill where it was mostly flat. Cypress trees were everywhere, their moss covered branches outstretching in certain direction, sculpted by the ocean breeze. Kimi turned around to admire the view. Koji had taken her to the far edge of town, to a large peninsula known for its light hiking trails and gorgeous sea coves. But Koji told her not to bother with them; he was going to take her to a secret spot that would out those sites to shame. To get there, they would have to get off trail and climb a bit.

"Almost there," he said. "After we walk through this cypress grove, there's a hidden entrance through those giant boulders. Mind you, it's a bit of a squeeze, but we should be fine."

"You're not taking me to a secluded area to do unspeakable things to me, are you?" Kimi asked, narrowing hey eyes.

Koji laughed, the sound reverberating through the woods. "Really? Haven't you figured out by now that I respect you too much to even consider doing something so stupid?" Kimi studied his aura. It continued to shine that warm and sparkling glow she secretly liked so much. It remained pure white as he said it. He wasn't lying. "Besides, we both know that you're more than capable to handle yourself under such circumstances."

They finally made it through the grove and Koji pointed out the large cracked boulder before them. The entrance to the other side was narrow and dark. Kimi doesn't have Cornelia's earth magic to sense any danger, but she knew there was no one within range for miles.

"Follow me and watch your steps," Koji reminded her, taking the lead. "It's only about ten meters deep."

Kimi sighed exasperatedly but followed him nonetheless.

The hidden path may have only been ten meters, but it was ten meters through the darken silence. And the ground was a bit too soft and moist from the snow for her liking. Kimi could feel her heart pounding with apprehension and wondered if Koji could hear it, too. She wished she has her brother's ability to see in the dark, but all she could make out were the dimmed and invisible waves of the light spectrum. As they inched closer to the light of the tunnel, Kimi could hear a roaring sound. Water?

"Through here," Koji declared and disappeared out of her view.

"Chottomatte!" Kimi cried, but he couldn't hear her. Quickly, she squeezed herself through the last bit of the rocks and jumped.

Kimi gasped, her breath stolen by the view before her. They were standing on top of the hill, but before them is a collapsed roof of a hidden sea cave! There was another entrance into the cavern: a natural tunnel that led them to the ocean outside. Across from where they were stand is a stream of water, carried here from the top of another adjacent hill where it poured into the sea cave, turning into a waterfall.

So that's the sound of roaring water, Kimi thought, staring at the waterfall and the waves crashing onto the sandy beach below.

"This is…" Kimi whispered, but the rest of her words were lost in her throat. Any words she could think of to describe this hidden jewel probably wouldn't come close to giving it justice. "How is this possible? How did you know?"

Koji smiled proudly at her. "It wasn't here when I first moved to Heatherfield," he said. "There was a large storm, followed by an earthquake not long afterwards. From it, the roof finally collapsed revealing this hidden sea cave beneath."

"What of the entrance from the sea?" Kimi asked.

"It is hidden by large, jagged rocks and crashing waves, so kayakers and boats tend to stay away. Unless you value your life, I don't recommend you trying to go down there, no matter how tempting it looks. I just happened to stumble upon it during one of my solo treks."

"How many other people do know about it?"

"Just me and my brother," he paused, glancing at her. "And you're the only other person I brought here, so…" his voice trailed off and he turned away.

Kimi gave him a small smile. "Don't worry, I won't reveal anyone your little secret."

Koji glanced back at her. "Not even your five little friends?"

Kimi shook her head. "I think we're allowed to keep a few secrets amongst friends."

"I like to come here when I want to be alone. Also, this place is great for inspiration whenever I going through a block. I've no doubt it will be discovered one day and it will fall under government protection, but until then I want to keep it a secret for as long as possible." He turned and pointed to the field below on their left. "Remember those flowers I got for you during the Winter Tournament?" Kimi nodded. "I picked them from this hill. See?" Kimi gaze trailed to where he was pointing and saw a field of them. Despite the chills permeating the air and the ground, these winter flowers were only lightly covered in snow while in full bloom. "They only grow in the surrounding areas of Heatherfield during this time of year, but this spot is my favorite. With the light of the setting sun, they changed colors."

Kimi bent down, lightly brushing her fingers against their petals. They looked delicate, but they had to be strong enough to survive through the harsh coldness of winter. "They're lovely," she said softly and sighed. A twinge of regret gnawed at her. "I'm sorry, I shouldn't have treated them in such a poor taste during the tournament."

Koji shrugged, doing his best to act cool. Kimi covered her lips and laughed.

He glances at her, curious. She hasn't laughed this like that before. It was light and musical and rare—like these flowers. He liked that. From the moment he met her, there was something strange and different about her that perked his interest. He knew she was still hiding secrets, and he knew she's not who she claims to be. There's a reason for her being here in Heatherfield, but he was in no hurry to uncover them. Despite her steely gaze and coldness, he felt attracted to her in ways he couldn't explain. Perhaps she reminds Koji of himself, as they both share a certain amount of aloofness as well as the spirit of a lone warrior. He could feel her heart and it beats in rhythm with his. As blatantly inauthentic as that thought process sounds, it was the closest reason he could come up with.

A strong gust of wind blew their way, rustling the flowers and stirring the cold mist of the waterfall in their direction. Kimi rubbed her arms, even though the cold didn't really bother her. She stood and watched the lights of the city twinkling in the distance. Something warm and heavy wrapped around her. She turned to see Koji offering her his jacket.

"Aren't you cold?" he asked.

"Aren't you?"

"I asked you first."

Kimi raised an eyebrow. "Seriously? We're not five years old."

They held each others' gaze before bursting into laughter.

"You've changed a bit," Koji said. "When we first met, you were sullen and full of anger and hatred. But now…"

Kimi nodded and smiled. "I didn't want to come to Heatherfield, to be honest. At first, the idea of coming here and attending school is degrading and unthinkable. I need time away from home, they reasoned. To make friends and learn how to work with them. But to me, they were just little girls. But after a while, I realized coming here was the best thing that could have happened to me. Maybe it's this city or the people who were so patient with me, but I feel different. I want to be different. I only wished…" she paused.

"What?"

"I wished my brother is here, too." Kimi gazed down sadly at the hidden sea cave. "I know I promised that I wouldn't tell anyone else of this place, but Kyochi-niisan would have loved it." She glanced up at the sparkling city light in the distance. "He would like Heatherfield, too."

Koji studied her. Kimi tried to appear strong, but deep down, she's just a lonely girl who's far away from home and misses her twin brother deeply. He could understand that, but how can he help by getting rid of this void in her heart?

"Hey, remember our wager?" he asked.

Kimi turned to face him.

"I said that if you beat me, I would try to make your wish come true. Perhaps I can help you bring your brother here?"

Kimi stared at him, completely surprised. "Koji, that's…"

"Impossible? You said he's still back home in Japan, right? My mom's a lawyer, remember? She still has connection in Japan. Maybe I can ask her to get in contact with your family and convinced them to let Kyochi come here!"

Kimi was touched. She clutched her chest, feeling her heart tightening. "You don't understand. The situation back home is complicated. I cannot go into details but all I can tell you is that my brother isn't well or fit enough to go anywhere."

"He's…in the hospital? Is he ill?"

Kimi blinked in confusion, but nodded hesitantly. This seemed like an odd reaction to him. "Yes. He's in a coma. My uncle thought sending me here and away from the situation would do me some good. But…"

Koji felt like a jerk. This girl lost her mother when she was little and her brother is comatose from an accident or an illness and she can't be there for him. As if that wasn't bad enough, she recently lost her father and for some odd reason, she is still here in Heatherfield. Koji frowned. Kimi's story is full of holes, and some parts doesn't add up. Under normal circumstances, he would ask her for the truth, but that wasn't a good idea right now. Kimi isn't asking for his pity and he should trust her enough to know that she'll tell him when she wants.

"Hey, listen to what I have to say," Koji said. "As cheesy as this is going to sound coming from me, but all the same, love knows no boundaries or distance. If your love for your brother is as strong and brilliant like the stars in the sky, I think he'll be able to feel it and follow it back to you."

Kimi blinked, uncertain how to respond. She could feel his sincerity. Koji's aura's flared a brighter and more brilliant white, lighting up the coming dusk. It wrapped itself around them both, and Kimi had never felt so calm and content. Who is this boy? And how could being with him make her feel so at ease? But what does that matter right now? At this moment, she just wants to enjoy this feeling.

"Kimi?" Koji asked, wondering if she thought he was being too cheesy. But Kimi just smiled and laughed. That wonderful sound was like music to his ears.

"Arigato," Kimi whispered. "For being a caring friend. For showing me around town. And for bringing me here."

"You're welcome," Koji replied, relieved.

And for making me forget my heartache for a while, she thought.

"So? Up for another date soon?" Koji asked.

Kimi studied him a bit but then smiled. "Sure. How about tomorrow?"

Silently, they watched the setting sun disappearing behind the ocean's zenith.

Author's note:

Sorry, this chapter was supposed to be up a week ago to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of W.I.T.C.H.! But I was recently on vacation and there were bad internet connection. Can you believe it's been 20 years?! I was in middle school when this comic series first came out!

Anyway, the date chapter is finally here! I hope you enjoy it! Kimi and Koji are cute together, even though they banter a lot like siblings.

After this, I'm going to be taking a break. I'm still writing, but I want to see if I can write 2 or 3 more chapters at once and then post them consecutively within a week of one another. Also, I want to finish a few other projects. Until then, please leave me a review! ;p


Cultural notes:

I based Koji's band off of some of my favorites, such as Imagine Dragons and OneRepublic. The first song, "Flight" is a spin-off of the song "Birds" by Imagine Dragons and "From the Beginning" is a spin-off of the song "Start Again" by OneRepublic.

Fujiwara Masazane - a famous swordsmith, said to have forged the one of the legendary three spears, Tonbokiri, which was said to have been wielded by daimyo Honda Tadakatsu. He, in turn, served under Tokugawa Ieyasu himself!

-bengoshi can be used formally when addressing a lawyer, although I think most people uses the -sensei suffixes.

I believe the udon in Osaka is a little lighter and clearer. Haven't had one in years, myself.

Houtou - A popular regional dish originated in Yamanashi, Japan.

ph? - Vietnamese beef/chicken broth with rice-noodles and herbs

Nii-san and Nii-chan both means big-brother in an affectionate manner. Notice that Kohane addressed Koichi as Nii-chan and Koji as Nii-san.

Kaa-san - Mom/mother, often used when addressing one's own mother.

Itadakimasu - "I humbly accept this food."

Chottomatte - "What a minute!"