Old Promises, New Mysteries: Book 2 of The Kinstone series

A loud alarm shook me loose from a dream I was having. I hastily threw off the covers and slipped off the bed. I didn’t even notice Fenris was still soundly sleeping, rushing myself to the bathroom. Quickly grabbing a shower, I headed for my wardrobe.

My eyes fluttered from outfit to outfit, pulling out drawers. I couldn’t decide on what I wanted to wear for my first day of lessons from the daiyokai. I then stepped back and had to laugh loudly.

What the hell was I thinking? These lessons were indeed formal training sessions, but no one really dictated that I expressly had to wear any form of uniform for both days.

I then eyed some waterproof clothing, throwing them over a one-piece swimsuit. Since I would be training with Asha, it just made sense to me. I tied my hair back, hearing it snap.

The room was still dark, turning my head towards to the balcony. Okay…it’s still dark, and I’m in a panic to get ready. I face-palmed myself, laughing again. I guess I was just too used to waking up early and starting my lessons with Rachel.

I looked over to see Fenris now sitting up and staring at me. I smiled, hopping over to him as I kicked on some shoes. His tails were swishing softly, watching me. I knelt down, meeting his gaze, “Ready to help me make a fool of myself?”

The wolf belted a cough, “You only make yourself into a fool by trying to act as one.”

I grinned at him, “Yeah well…a fool will as a fool does.”

He looked at me, his eyes shimmered softly, “You are overly anxious little one. You must be calm. Do not lead yourself to childish mistakes.” I nodded to him. He was right, I am beyond nervous and I had to settle down.

Before I could however, I felt something churning within my stomach. I bolted for my bathroom and threw up into the toilet. Panting heavily, I hovered over it, heaving every so often.

My mouth burned and tasted like acid. Even the backs of my teeth felt like sandpaper. Not a taste or feeling one ever gets over. Fenris stood beside me, wrapping me in a gentle gush of chilled wind.

My face burned and felt taught, looking to him and smiling. I fell back onto my butt, still panting. Okay…way more nervous than I thought. I had to relax, just chill out.

Fenris rested his massive head on top of mine. He actually was trying to help me settle down. I smiled, feeling the weight of his head on mine. Reaching up with a hand, I gently clung to his fur. I leaned my head against the wall, taking several deep breaths.

I could hear the sound of a heart beating. It had a soft and steady rhythm to it. I found it soothing. Slowly my own began to calm itself.

“Are you ready little one?”

I nodded, leaning forward, and slowly standing up. I looked to him, smiling, and stroking his fur, “Thanks, Papa Wolf.”

He smiled to me, wagging his twin tails. We nodded to each other and headed for the door, grabbing a fresh notebook and pencils. One way to settle a nervous mind is to fill the stomach. So that is what I needed to do. Breakfast time.

The sun had finally began to rise over the hills as I headed for the breakfast room. I could already hear voices coming from it. So everyone is already awake. You’ve got to be kidding me.

I laughed to myself, turning the doorknob, “Morning everyone.” But instead of seeing Rachel and the yokai sitting at the table turning to greet me, I found an empty room.

I sighed, “That’s not really funny you guys.”

Soft laughter rose from behind me. I spun around to see my mother and my new teachers sauntering up to me. I folded my arms, glaring at them. Yukari smiled mischievously, her tails swishing around her, with some resting on the floor.

Asha grinned at me; her fangs were subtle behind the backs of her lips. I could tell she was just as anxious as I was. Her attire wasn’t the traditional kimono top she typically wore, but was more akin to what most gym teachers wore. She was also carrying a small satchel over her shoulder, obviously filled with books and whatnot.

Rachel on the other hand just walked up to me, “Are you ready my love? I know you must be quite nervous.”

I nodded to her, “Yeah, even my stomach was in on it.”

She looked to me, placing a hand onto my forehead, “You do feel a little warm. Should we let you rest before you begin your lessons?”

I gazed up at her, “No way. And I’m not sick.”

She gazed into my eyes, “Are you sure?”

I groaned, rolling my eyes, “Yes, I’m sure. Just haven’t been this nervous in a long time.”

Rachel studied my face, before sighing, “Very well young lady. I only wish to see you safe.”

I smiled to her, “Hey, I’m not facing anyone in a duel. I’m just having a lesson. A full day’s worth of lessons. And doing this tomorrow.”

She smirked, tapping me on the nose, “Just be careful.”

I grinned at her, “Trust me, I’ll be fine.”

“Trust me, I’ll be fine.” What the hell was I thinking.

Asha and I headed to the where one of the largest streams and the lake converged. She slithered into the water, her green scales shimmering vibrantly as water splashed against her tail.

She smiled to me, “Now Aria-chan, would you please transform into a ryujin? For you should also know that your lesson with either of us shall be in each respective form.”

I nodded as I reached for my necklace, rolling it between my thumb and fingers. I kicked off my shoes, placing them behind me.

I felt a shiver down my spine as magic surged through my body. My legs began to fuse together, feeling my spin growing longer and longer. Soft blue scales then formed along my now tail with silvery fur lining its spine. My arms itched as scales began to form on them as well with my forearms growing larger becoming gauntlets and fingers into claws.

My ears sprouted and grew, much like my wings as a dragon. Scales formed around the side of my cheeks. I cooed softly as I felt my horns emerging from my hard. My long hair turned from a dark blonde to that of bluish silver.

Asha smiled as my transformation concluded, “If I didn’t know you, I would say that you were born a ryujin Aria-chan.”

I smiled to her, “Well aside from pictures I’ve been sending you, how do I look?”

She grinned, “You look absolutely amazing, a true young ryujin. You would easily be welcomed into any faction looking as such. Even your kitsune form is flawless. You truly are yokai.”

I blushed, coiling my long tail. Being a ryujin felt the exact same as I did as a mermaid. Legs fused together into a tail. One major difference was that my tail as was over eight feet in length.

Asha beckoned me to her. I smiled as I slid my serpentine tail towards her. I felt a chill run through me, feeling the water rushing passed my scaly underbelly. It felt invigorating.

Asha easily towered over me. Despite the transformation, I still retained my human proportions. So yeah…runt of a ryujin, but ryujin nonetheless.

We started off with her asking me to show how I could manipulate water. Calling back to my training with the gossip, I summoned the water from the stream, causing it to swirl around my armored hands.

I still couldn’t redirect the flow of the stream, much like how it was described in tomes and from how Tariel had demonstrated to me on several occasions. Some of the progress I had made was in the amount of water I could summon and control.

One goal I had wanted to obtain was to have massive amounts of water swirling around me, in which I would dance around in it, and hurl it at anything. Asha smiled. She complimented me on my progress, also stating that I couldn’t have gotten this far without the aid of the gossip.

She then turned and began doing the same, only in much greater amounts. I can’t begin to count how many times I had the stream blasting into me when she had me try and copy her.

While summoning the water to me wasn’t that difficult, increasing the amount summoned and controlling it were two completely different matters. I nearly was washed out into the lake every time I would push back the stream.

Now the stream itself is more like a creek, about five to six feet from bank to bank, so lots of water. It’s going to take me a while before I’ll be able to even start to come close to how easy Asha makes it. Baby steps Aria, one after the other.

The sky then began to grow darker as clouds began to swirl overhead. Ryujin were able to manipulate the weather with ease, causing massive storms. Lightning cracked brilliantly, nearly blinding me. I think she was showing off a little, wanting to exhibit the full power of her race.

I felt as though a storm brewed within me as I watched her demonstration. And yet I smiled as she did. Just one more thing to learn about myself.

She also helped me explore myself as a ryujin. The likes and dislikes of the race, how to move properly and even sense my surroundings. As with all things in life, you can any gleam so much from reading books. To actually experience it yourself is ten times more profound. And I had been in such desperate need of practice.

I watched how Asha moved along the water, how her body flowed so effortlessly. There was no wasted movement, no unneeded gestures, just a being set in their natural element. I was dumbstruck with awe.

I can recall every time I flew with Silvi, soaring through the air, and having the same feeling I was having now. Dragons, no matter what part of the world they hail from, are all still amazing to watch.

Asha and I spent the entire day together, with her expanding my knowledge of her race. I listened with the same intensity I would with Rachel. Her race’s history was incredible, how her ancestors came to blows with the gods of Japan. A bright smile rose on my face hearing of tales of epic battles, love found and lost.

It was simply amazing. Despite having already read about all of this from the tomes she had sent me of the past year, it was fresh and new to me as I heard it from her directly. Reading about something is one thing, having it being taught to you from the actual source is worlds better in my opinion.

She also helped me further my understanding of water magic, expanding my control of it. I knew I still had a very long way to go before I could even come close to either her or even Tariel’s ability. Now I might have said that Tariel lamented in saying her ability wasn’t the best.

But if you were to her compare to me, I am still nothing but a ranked novice to maybe that of a fair user. But trained hard I did and would continue to do so.

Over the course of the lesson, I finally made decent progress, still hoping to eventually gain some ground on my teachers. I was able to draw on even more water than I could ever before. The problem lied in not fighting the flow of water, trying to make it bend to my will.

Heh, but the truth was to let it actually flow with you. This simple revelation unlocked so much within me. I think I might have surprised her with my understanding of ice magic, a field I very much enjoy studying.

I giggled as she then formed tiny clouds within her hands. I watched as tiny flashes of lightning flickered inside. As she explained how ryujin could alter the weather, it dawned on me that it might not be something that I’d want to have as a skillset. I didn’t say out-loud, but I really didn’t want upset Asha. I could tell she having a blast teaching me.

Rachel stood nearby, and somehow I knew she felt the same way. I don’t really like having a lot of power, it actually can terrify me at how much I really can wield.

My magic’s only gone out of control a couple of times and that was due to me lapsing in focus. Thankfully I had Fenris nearby to help curb most of my magic, which he accomplished by standing near me and allowing the overflow of my magic to course through him.

It’s one of the reasons why whenever Rachel teaches me, we always start with infusing magic into crystals. It’s just common practice for me. Control is everything. I never seek knowledge to grow my power, but understand it. Now, I do love having sparring sessions, they allow me to vent and explore my limits.

She then showed off by flying into the air. My eyes grew wide as I watched her soar into the air without the use of wings. Her tail swished and slithered through the air as though she were on the ground.

I think Silvi would want to challenge Asha to a race or something if the former saw the latter in the air. I actually would love to see that match. In fact I’d be right up there with them, granted I’d be trying my damnedest just to keep up with them if they chose to really push themselves.

At one point Asha began showing me how to perform simple rituals to her progenitor god. Ryujin would act in the similar manner as kitsune, offering prayers to the gods for any number of reasons.

But the station of the ryujin was to pray for favorable weather, be it for farming or travel. There would even be prayers for good weather on trips, which made me giggle at times.

Asha taught me the actual prayers the shrines would utilize in their practices. I watched and listened closely as the massive being “danced” within the water.

My eyes were transfixed onto her. She was truly a sight to behold, wind and water would swirl and flow around her as if her body were of the elements themselves. I wondered if I were capable of the same feats.

Something stirred within me as I watch Asha perform, something deep within my heart, a longing or connection to the songs and prayers. It was though my soul was listening to something that I had forgotten. I don’t know if it was because of the ryujin form itself or some other reason, but it felt “right”. My teacher would look on at me, smiling, knowing how I was being moved.

Now I need to explain something, I still retain my beliefs as a Christian. However over the past few months, I’ve slowly began to shift ever so slightly to those of Rachel. It’s just now a fact of my life.

So with learning the religious practices of the other races I can transform into, it’s only natural that I should at the very least learn of them. I actually found the rituals to be fun.

I must also say that the entire lesson was conducted in Japanese. It was refreshing and I think appropriate that it was. This served as a preview of my time in Japan, in that I would more than likely be speaking in solely in the language. So better get myself used to hearing it on a daily basis.

The day was extremely long and I felt my body beginning to ache from the strain. The sun had already began to set as the lesson drew to a close.

I reverted to a human, quickly finding myself splashing into the stream. I chuckled, grateful for my choice in attire. Asha smiled, slithering over, helping me to my feet. My legs wobbled as I stood on it.

“You did incredibly well Aria-chan.” I smiled as I steadied myself. Fenris quickly ran over to me. I looked to him and grabbed ahold of his fur.

“What are your thoughts of my girl Asharyume?” asked Rachel.

The ryujin smiled, moving over to me, propping me up, “She is everything you have said she is Lady Rivenfeld. A good student, mindful, but at times is distracted.”

My mother smiled, walking towards me, stroking my wet hair, “That she is,” turning to me, “did you have fun my girl?” I nodded to her. My body still was shaking as I clung to my bonded.

She smiled, hugging me gently, “Good,” look to the sky, “why don’t we call it a night my friends. I do believe that our dinner should be served rather soon.” My stomach wheezed and churned loudly at the idea of food. Everyone laughed loudly. I blushed softly.

I didn’t really notice how close we were to the lake when I heard the familiar sounds of tails splashing in the water. I turned to see the Tariel, floating by the shoreline. She smiled softly to me, “Good evening Princess.”

I then smiled, hobbling over to her, “Hey Tariel.”

She looked to me, “Did you have a good birthday?”

I nodded to her, “Hope we weren’t being too loud,” trying to kneel down. The head mermaid shook her head as water swirled around her, lifting her gently out of the water.

I felt her arms wrapping around my tiny body, “You push yourself so hard little Princess, and just to say hello.”

I smiled to her, “Just...trying to be nice.”

She flicked my nose, “You always are. Well…aside from your mischievous antics,” grinning to me.

I giggled, telling her about my day and learning from Asha. She smiled, offering some minor criticism of my work. Heh, she is one of my other teachers after all.

She smiled, seeing Rachel standing by the others. Tariel bowed her head, “Evening my Lady.”

My mother smiled, “Good evening Tariel,” she then knelt beside me, stroking my hair. I sighed softly, looking to everyone, and then blushed as my stomach squealed once more.

Tariel smiled, “We can play later Princess.” I nodded as she pulled back, slowly lowering herself back into the lake.

Waving to her, I smiled, “Night Tariel.”

She smiled, “Have a good night Princess, and learn well tomorrow.” I smiled, nodding to her, and then watched as she dove back into the lake, disappearing beneath the water.

I hobbled back over to my shoes, slowly putting them on. I’m glad I choose my outfit for the day. I also had to laugh.

After I first transformed into a kitsune, Rachel modified all of my clothing to better accommodate whatever form I would transform into. Definitely saves on having to constantly buy new clothes.

My body still ached from the entire day. While I loved being a ryujin for the day, moving around on my tail, feeling the water rushing over my scales, and feeling more connected to the race than I had before.

It was great to be able to walk on two legs again. It’s hard to practice being a ryujin at times. I love the form, how it feels and moves, the power surging through me, and just being yet another dragon.

The problem lies with how I have no one to practice with. I try with the mermaids a lot. Now swimming as a ryujin is at times, awkward, but you get used to it after a while. Imagine watching a snake as it swam in the water, that’s…basically it.

But the main problem in all of this is that I really had no one to transform with or be around. The kitsune was the simplest and I could easily meld into the Estate. As for the other forms…well that’s pretty self-explanatory.

Rachel held onto to me as we headed for the Manor. The sun had already crested behind us. I looked up and saw the first stars twinkling in the sky, which looked like a mix between darkening blues and shades of yellows and reds.

My stomach wheezed even louder the closer we drew upon the veranda. I could hear the swishing of tails behind me, looking back to see Asha and Yukari as they pulled up the rear. My eyes trained onto the kitsune. A small smile drew upon my face, knowing that she was going to be next teacher.

It was a great day and I loved learning from Asha. I wish we had more time together; hundreds of questions began to flood into my mind. I giggled to myself, always the consummate student.

I still had all the books I was given to read over and study from. That and the fact that I could always send a letter to her if I wanted to. I knew in the end that I still had to wait another five months before I could really have those questions answered.

Marron was sitting on the back veranda with a sketch book in her hands. I smiled as I watch her hands furiously scribbling across the paper. She looked up and smiled at me, “Had fun today sweetie?” I nodded to her, legs still wobbling.

She closed the notebook and rose from her seat, “Good, I think dinner is being served as we speak.”

I smiled to her. She looked me over, “Hmmm… looks like I may need to design some new clothes for you. Something that best matches you as a ryujin.” I blushed, which only served to draw a laugh out of her.

Rachel smiled, “All right everyone, let’s get inside and feed this little child.”

Marron nodded, “Yes Ma’am.” We then piled into the dining room and began to eat.

Over dinner, Asha began to explain where my deficiencies were and how to improve upon them. I looked over to Rachel, who nearly wanted to scold the ryujin for talking about the lesson at the table, which is a rule during dinner. But she held back, smiling at me.

I leaned back into my chair, rubbing my legs. I could still remember the sensation of having them fused into a single long tail, which stretched for several feet.

I looked over to Asha. Despite sitting on her coiled tail, she practically filled the tiny room. I laughed to myself, watching her squirm just to get comfortable.

My eyes also began to grow heavier the longer I listened.

“Why don’t you head onto bed sweetheart?”

I looked over, seeing Rachel smiling to me.

I leaned forward, now feeling incredibly stiff in my entire body. My body creaked and popped as I stood. I leaned back to stretch my back, hearing every single joint popping loudly.

I turned to Asha, smiling to her, “Thank you for the lessons.”

She smiled warmly, “You are quite welcome Aria-chan. We shall see you in the morning.”

I smiled to her, turning to my next teacher, “See you tomorrow.”

“I’m looking forward to it little one,” grins Yukari.

Taking a step back, I bowed my head to them, looking to my mother and Marron, “Night all.”

Rachel smiled to me, “Goodnight sweetheart.”

Marron then laughed, “Night sweetie. Now just get on up to bed.” I giggled and turned, heading out of the dining room, with Fenris beside me.

I longed for my bed, every step made the trek seem all that much longer and harder. It was a great day, I was taught all day by Asha, gaining a far better understanding of being a ryujin, and not to mention being one around another. I guess it’s one of the many reasons why I am so looking forward to this trip.

Being home on the Estate, living with a dragon, alraune, mermaids, and all other assorted creatures is great and all, but it’s now only half of what I am.

Okay…let me back up a little. My mother is the greatest person in the world to me, without her…I wouldn’t be where or who I am today.

But getting back on topic, the other “half” I’m referring to is the yokai side. I am human, but the races I transform into are a part of who I am. I’m linked to them. Hell…I’m often a kitsune a good chunk of the day at times. But this trip will allow me to explore that other side of me.

I want to learn about whom they are and how I am connected to them. Plus…I’ll be back in Japan for over two whole months. I squealed to myself as I let my thoughts run rampant through my mind.

When Fenris and I reached my door, I softly opened it. The wolf dashed in first, with me right behind him. I stepped over to my wardrobe and changed into my pajamas. I tossed the day’s clothes into a hamper, hearing them make a satisfying thump as they landed perfectly.

I smiled, walking over to my bed, and crawled into it. Laying my head onto the pillow, I stared up at the ceiling.

The room was still dark, having not even bothered to flip on the light. My body began to sink into the bed, letting the warm covers envelop me in a soft cocoon. I felt my eyes slowly grow heavier, gradually letting go and falling asleep. The next day was going to be great, just like today was.

The next morning was just like the previous. Woke up early, showered, and got dressed. I choose to go with what I normally wore during my workouts, seeing how I wouldn’t be splashed with water.

I bent over and stretched, stiff feeling stiff from my lesson with Asha. While it was a fun day, it was long, much like my lessons are with Rachel. Now it’s my turn with Yukari, and learning firsthand about being a kitsune. I couldn’t wait.

I looked over to see that Fenris was already awake, head held up as he stared at me. Smiling to him, I pulled my hair back into a ponytail, looping a hairband tightly into it.

After I finished, I slipped on some shoes, kicking the toes. I nodded to him, seeing the wolf hop off of my bed and the two of us head out the door.

My lessons with Yukari were vastly different than the day before with Asha. First off, we started by actually sparring with each other.

I can’t even describe in words how graceful she was. Every step, every placement of her feet, even down to how her tails flowed through the air was utter perfection. Her movements flowed as graceful as water.

I on the other hand was only barely able to dodge her attacks. She had decades if not centuries on me, and I was nothing more than a child, stumbling in the dark when compared to her.

The only other person I could think of that matched Yukari would be Rachel. So I smiled, treating her as such. My movements slowly, and I do mean slowly, began to catch up to her. I was able to surprise her with launching my orbs at her, using my tails as the medium, rather than my hands.

Eight bluish orbs fired at my teacher, who again, dodged each one. But a grin rose on my face as three of the eight struck her as they made their return trip to me. She smiled to me, fading into a wisp of leaves, disappearing. I looked desperately for her, only to get smacked in the head a few times with her kitsune-bi.

I tumbled forward, falling face first into the ground. I grumbled as I listened to chuckling at me. I pouted for a bit before getting back up again and resumed the match.

I still drew a massive grin when I shocked her when I was able to launch up to five Rushes at her (I shortened the original name of the ability a while ago), while nearly overdoing it upon trying a sixth.

When we had finished, Yukari sat me down and ran through my strengths and weaknesses within my techniques. She did praise my ingenuity for my tail attacks. I smiled as I listened.

I plopped myself onto the ground. She then began to teach me more of how kitsune were the messengers to the gods and were given certain duties to perform in their service, again acting as their priests and priestesses.

I wrapped my tails around me as the history lesson wore one. She made references to how kitsune also would often travel to the spirit world, attending to various gods and goddesses if the need was there.

My attention was grabbed the more she spoke the spirit world, almost feeling a pull to go and visit it. Of course I would ask questions about the spirit world. My teacher smiled to me.

We then moved onto it illusion training, something while having gotten better over the past few months, was still out of my reach. Yukari was flawless in being able to transform herself into a perfect disguise of my mother. I giggled when Silvi appeared and began asking Rachel about why she was teaching me in the damp grass and not in the conservatory.

I laughed as Yukari dropped her façade and revealed herself. My sister’s jaw dropped as she stared at Yukari, then turning her attention to me. She walked over and snatched me into the air, playfully grinding her fist into my hair, which only served to make me laugh all the more. Yukari smiled.

She then began to demonstrate how to create clones using anything around her. The kitsune held up leaves she had gather and with a poof of smoke, they also turned into exact copies of her. I marveled at the clones, wondering if I were capable of such things.

My teacher smiled, motioning me to her. I grinned as Silvi let go of me. Yukari smiled once more, showing me how to produce a clone. She first held up a piece of paper, and blew magic into it.

I looked in awe as it transformed into a copy of me. My tails swished and wagged as I examined “myself”. It was perfect. Yukari smiled, continuing her lesson.

We spent an hour on the subject, with the only progress on my part was being able to form a miniature clone of myself. I looked over to Fenris, who was lying on the ground, ever watching me.

I grinned, making my clone walk over to him, and climbing over the wolf. He looked at the clone and licked it, but poofed in his face. I grinned at him. Yukari nodded.

During the midday, we decided to take a small break. I looked over to her, “You said that kitsune are messengers to the spirit world. Does…that mean that are other worlds? I know the fairy realms exist.”

Yukari nodded, “There are indeed other worlds, little one. Some however, aren’t the most welcoming or kind.”

My ears tilted, “What do you mean?”

Her tails folded around her legs, “You and I are of the spirit world my dear. While you are human, you are also kitsune. This means there are realms that are opposite to us. They can affect us differently, even cause us harm.”

“You mean like the realm of the dead, right?”

She nodded, “That is correct my dear.”

I looked over to Fenris, who was lying beside me. My fingers ran through his fur, listening to him groan happily. I sighed heavily. I had learned of the realm of the dead from many of the texts that she had sent me over the past year.

Frankly it always gave me to creeps. Hell, I’m not the biggest fan of horror movies, I hate zombies. Even the idea of something crawling out of the grave made my skin crawl.

She looked to me, “Everything all right Aria-chan?” I nodded, wrapping my arms around my knees.

Yukari leaned over to me, her golden eyes peering into my own, “You were distracted by something. What troubles you? Did something I say upset you?”

I smiled to her, laying my head onto my knees, shaking my head, “Just lost in thought.” In reality I was just spacing out. I sighed, slapping myself free of my melancholy.

I looked up to her, smiling, “Can we continue please?”

She smiled, nodding to me, “Of course dear.” I grinned as we resumed.

The rest of the day was filled with history lessons, learning how to refine my control over my kitsune-bi, and as with Asha, learning better control of my form. While my connection to my kitsune form was the strongest and most refined, it was still amazing to find more and more things about it from one who was born a kitsune.

I watched as she manipulated objects with such ease, it appeared as thought she was doing it without really thinking about it. Over the past year, I had learned to do the same.

I loved the idea of having extra hands to hold on and manipulate objects. I often did this whenever I was working on a model and I didn’t want to go searching over “Model” looking for them.

She also instructed me on how to properly deflect magic with my tails. While solid objects are one thing, magic is completely different. I had to charge them with magic in order to block out others.

She and I spent a good hour or so practicing this. It goes without saying that Rachel and I would be continuing to develop this technique.

By the end of the day, I was sacked out onto the ground. My tails wrapped around me. I had to laugh, albeit softly, as Fenris gently pulled me into his side. I rested my head against his fur, feeling his gentle chill enveloping me. I wanted to just drift away right there on the grass.

I could hear the wind slowly picking up as it blew against the trees. The skies were slowly darkening, with the sun’s dying amber light fading into the hills.

I felt a hand softly stroking my face, turning to see my mother kneeling beside me. A soft smile rose on my face, “Hey.”

She smiled to me, “Hello my darling. Did you have fun today?” I nodded slowly.

I then felt the fatigue of both days finally catching up to me. My body was exhausted, not to mention how fried my mind felt. My eyes grew heavier the more I laid there.

Rachel smiled warmly as she continued to stroke my face, “Why don’t we get you inside? Surely you must be hungry,” she whispered. I nodded, groaning as I strained myself to sit up.

My mother shook her head, “You silly little girl.” She slowly helped me to me up. Fenris rose to his feet, standing beside me.

I saw that Yukari was already waiting for us, watching as she brushed away grass off of her long skirt. I smiled to her, “Thank you for the day Miss Yukari.”

The kitsune smiled in return, “You are quite welcome Aria-chan.”

The four of us then started for the Manor, with the prospect of the hot meal and my bed, becoming extremely appealing to me. Fenris, naturally, hoisted me onto his back. I didn’t protest or complain. I clutched softly onto his fur, my tails draping over each side of his body.

During dinner, I slumped into my chair, still incredibly exhausted from the day. I had in fact eaten something, although I couldn’t tell you what I ate. My tired eyes peered over to Asha and Yukari as they spoke to each other.

My tired mind could only make out minor details of their conversation. I think they were talking something about “weather conditions”? I don’t know, too tired to really think about it. I had reverted to a human.

Rachel looked to me, seeing how my eyes were becoming ever more shut. I felt a hand resting on my shoulder, looking up to see Marron’s emerald eyes looking to mine, “Ready for bed sweetie?” I nodded to her.

She smiled, looking to my mother, who smiled and nodded. “Ok, let’s get you up to bed.” I bobbed my head once more in agreement.

Marron helped me to my feet, hearing Fenris’ claws tapping against the tiling as he stood up. I looked to both yokai, “Goodnight to the both of you.” They smiled to me, nodding softly.

I then turned my head to Rachel, “Night Rachel.”

My mother smiled tenderly to me, “Get some rest my love.” I nodded, letting Marron escort me out of the dining room.

I clung to her as we ascended to stairs. Marron held onto tightly, not wanting to let my stumble and fall. It was nice being with her. I missed it, as I always do. She smiled to me, “You should know that the both of them are leaving tomorrow.”

I looked up at her, “Really?”

She nodded, “That’s what they were talking about while you were fading.” I sighed, I knew they couldn’t stay long, and seeing them again for my birthday was great.

A twitch then entered my mind, “When…when do you head home?”

She held me close to her, “Tomorrow.” My heart sank into my stomach. I wanted to spend at least another day with her.

She kissed the top of my head, “I know it sucks sweetie, but hopefully in the future we will get to be with each other again.” I nodded as we approached my room.

She opened my door and walked me inside. I pulled off my clothes, again tossing them into the hamper. Putting on some pajamas, I crawled into bed, feeling my body quickly sinking into it.

Marron sat beside me on the bed, looking down at me as a gentle smile rose across her face. I didn’t want her to leave me again. It just wasn’t fair. I wanted cling to her and not let her go.

She grinned to me, “I know what you’re thinking sweetie, and I wish I could stay forever here with you.”

I blushed softly, feeling my cheeks burning. She leaned over and stroked my hair, “You really are just a kid deep down aren’t you?”

I looked away, face still burning red. I felt the bed shifting as I watch Marron lying down beside me. I rolled into her, staring into her emerald eyes.

She laid there for a few moments, smiling once more, “You know I still often think about what would’ve happened if you did move in with me?”

My face blushed even deeper, “Would…would you have taken me as your real little sister?”

She caressed my hair, gazing into my eyes, smiling, “What are you talking about? You and I are real sisters.” She then kissed my forehead, “But to answer your question, yes…yes I would have taken you in.” My heart fluttered softly in my chest.

She smiled, “My sweet, sweet little Baby Ahri.” A soft grin parted my lips, having always loved her pet name for me.

Marron then pulled the covers over me, “Get some rest sweetie. We still have the morning together before I have to leave.” I nodded to her. She grinned broadly, tucking me in, “Maybe the next outfit I make for you should be a onesie, one that can fit a nice thick puffy diaper. After all, you are a little baby.”

I glowered at her, but my face was even redder than better. She chuckled, “I’m kidding sweetie.” She then placed another kiss onto my cheek, “Love you sweetie.”

I smiled, “Love you too Marron.”

She sat back up, eyeing Fenris as he gently hopped onto the bed, lying down at the foot. She smiled to him, “Guard her dreams.” He nodded, looking at me. She then rose off the bed. I watched as She walked over to the door and turning off the light, “Night sweetie.”

I smiled to her, “Night Marron.” She smiled back, slowly closing the door.

I laid there in the quiet dark, letting the sound of my ceiling fan lull me to sleep. Marron was leaving again, and I hated it. But that’s life I guess. And life is never fair; I’m a prime example of this incontrovertible truth.

I looked down, seeing Fenris’ eyes looking gently at me. I pulled my arm out from under the covers, motioning him to me. The wolf softly crawled over to me, lying beside me. My fingers clung to his fur, further dragging me into sleep. I yawned, letting known how truly tired I was.

“Rest Aria. Rest and enjoy what time you share with Marron.”

I nodded, feeling my eyes growing heavier and heavier, “Night Fenris.”

His lips curled into a wolfish smile, soft and gentle, “Sleep well little one.” My eyes finally closed, allowing myself to fade away into the depths of wondrous and blissful dreams.

My body slammed hard onto the floor, having fallen out of bed. Groaning with pain, I laid there. “Are you all right little one?”

I nodded, lifting myself off of the carpet. Despite having a rather good night, the last dream I had really shook me for a loop. Combining that with how stiff my body still was from the previous day, I really wasn’t in the best of shape at the moment.

I sat onto my knees, looking up at my bed, seeing Fenris staring at me. I smiled at the wolf. He hopped off the bed and came to my side, nuzzling my face.

I held onto his muzzle, stroking the soft fur. He then pulled back and nudged me to stand up. My joints popped and crack as I rose to my feet.

A sharp stabbing pain ran through my back the moment I was upright. I groaned yet again, not a good way to start the morning. I felt Fenris standing behind me, helping me stand. I reached back and stroked his fur, smiling. No running for today, especially after the past two days.

After the pain subsided, I skidded past him and walked over my closet, taking off my pajamas and hanging them up. A nice hot shower would do me a world of good. I slipped into my bathroom and turned on the water.

I felt tons better, as I thought, after my shower. My body felt light and fresh, even my aching joints weren’t in as much pain. I had to laugh; here I was thinking I was some elderly person.

Drying myself off, I walked over to my wardrobe and started pulling out clothes for the day. I pulled my hair out from my shirt and sat at my vanity, picking up a brush, and running it through my hair.

The room was quiet. The sky was slowly growing brighter as the sun began to rise. Fenris lay beside me, his tails swishing every so often. I peered down at him, seeing him staring up at me.

I placed the brush back onto the vanity, tying a ribbon at the tip of my hair and throwing it over my shoulder. I sighed softly.

Everyone was leaving today, first Asha and Yukari, and then Marron later on. It just sucked. But Marron said that we’d have a little time together before she had leave. Even still, I hated whenever she had to leave.

I grunted angrily, pushing my thoughts back into reality. I looked at myself in the mirror, making sure nothing was out of place. Nodding, I rose from my seat and headed for the door, with Fenris close behind me.

The corridors were aglow with the early morning light, casting gentle white rays against the walls. I peered out the windows, watching the clouds slowly rolling across the sky. I grinned, wondering if Asha might’ve had a hand in the weather for today.

As I rounded the corner to the front stairwell, I saw the front door was open. I saw both Abigale and Lyra issuing orders to the golem maids. Bianca, the glacie, had to be close by. I headed down the stairs, watching the maids disperse.

“Good morning Young Miss,” spoke both maids, bowing their heads to me.

I smiled, hopping down from the final couple steps, “Morning.” Both women walked over to me.

“We hope you had a splendid birthday Young Miss,” inquired Lyra.

I nodded to her, “It was good. Simpler, but good.”

Lyra had become my sword master over the past few months, taking over the duty after asking if she could.

I looked to her, “Think we might have another session soon?”

The valkyrie smiled, “I believe that to be a possibility in the near future. It has been some time since your last lesson. I am also anxious to see your progress with the pillars you constructed.”

I nodded to her, eyeing the breakfast room, and feeling my stomach starting whine for food. She smiled to me, “Breakfast is indeed served Young Miss. Your guests have already begun dining.”

I nodded to her, “Thank you Lyra.”

She smiled, “You are quite welcome Young Miss.”

I looked behind me, watching Fenris and Abigale talking to each other. I grinned, wondering if those two would ever go on a date or something. Both of their tails were wagging happily.

I leaned into Lyra, “Think I should let the lovebirds have some privacy?”

She chuckled, “Perhaps,” then looked to me, “you should go on ahead Young Miss.” I nodded to her, turning for the door. I giggled, hearing the clicking of claws on the tiling as Fenris appeared at my side.

Stepping outside, I saw Rachel standing in the driveway with Asha and Yukari. All three women were talking to each other. I leaned over the banister, smiling to them, “Morning everyone.”

The trio turned and smiled to me. My mother motioned me over to them. I hopped down the stairs, walking quickly to them.

Rachel pulled me close to her, “Sleep well my love?”

I half-grinned, “Up until waking up on the floor.”

She sighed, “Restless sleeper.”

My shoulders shrugged, then looking to the daiyokai before me, “All set to head home?” Both women nodded.

Asha slithered to me, leaning over, and placing her massive hand onto the top of my head, stroking it, “I pray that these next few months will speed on quickly. I cannot wait to have you in Japan once more with us.”

I giggled, “I can’t wait either.”

She smiled, placing a kiss onto the top of my head. I giggled, watching her pulled back as fluffy white tails snaked around my body. I turned to see Yukari stepping closer to me, with a hand reaching to my cheek and gently caressing it. I smiled to her.

The kitsune warmly smiled to me, “Be well little one. Much awaits in upon your arrival.”

I tilted my head, “Neither of you has said what exactly I’ll be doing once I get there.”

Both women grinned at me, with Yukari placing a finger over her lips, “You will just have to find out once you arrive.”

My shoulders slumped, grumbling and pouting. “Fine…I can wait.”

I didn’t like the fact they were hiding the details of my time there. Yet more surprises for me I guess. The daiyokai grinned as the tails soon released me.

Rachel tenderly pulled me back, holding me in her arms. “It was great having you both here again.” Both women smiled brightly. Asha moved back a few feet from me, with Yukari standing beside her.

“We patiently await your return Aria-chan,” spoke the ryujin. I giggled.

“Be safe little one, we shall see each other soon,” added the kitsune, who climbed onto the Asha’s tail, and looking to her companion, “shall we?”

Wind began to swirl around Asha as she slowly ascended into the air. Yukari snaked her tails around her traveling partner’s. I grinned at how amazing the sight was. Both women smiled to me, further climbing upwards.

I wanted to turn into a dragon and fly with them for a bit, nearly fighting the urge to do so. But I knew Rachel wouldn’t let me. So, on the ground I stayed, eyes still watching the pair rising higher and higher.

I waved to them, watching them pass over the roof of the garage. I giggled, watching them wave back to me, soon disappearing out of sight.

Rachel hugged me tightly, stroking my hair, “Just a little while more. You shall see them again soon.” I nodded, eyes still scanning the open skies. I felt a kiss brush against my cheek, “Ready for some breakfast my love?”

I smiled, giggling, “Yep.”

“Hey, anyone hungry?”

I turned to see Marron leaning over the banister. I grinned at her. There was still time before she had to leave, so I aimed to spend as much of it as possible with her. Rachel and I then turned and headed back inside.

Marron smiled to me, watching us walk up the stairs. My stomach then whined and begged for food. She grinned, hearing it. Yes, food first, then time with Marron. The three of us then all walked to the breakfast and sat down for a meal.

After breakfast, Marron and I both sat in the parlor together, just cuddling with one another, and talking. It really didn’t matter what the subject was, only just that the conversation didn’t end. I still wished she didn’t have to leave.

I again wanted to just ask that she could stay here forever. But…in the end she still had to go back. So I bottled up those thoughts and pushed them aside. Just enjoy the time you have with her.

I looked over to see Fenris’ face resting on the couch in front of us. I grinned, reaching out my hand and scratching his muzzle. I could tell he was worried about me, about feeling lonely without Marron here.

But in reality I wasn’t alone. I still have my other big sister, my aunt, and my mother all here with me. So just relax and enjoy what little time we have left to share.

A bell rang on the grandfather clock. Marron looked at it, sighing. “It’s time sweetie.” I felt my heart sinking to my stomach. I heard the door open, with Rachel walking in, “The car is ready to take you to the airfield.”

Marron nodded, “Thank you Lady Rachel,” turning to me, “guess I’ll see you when I see you.” I clung softly to her coat sleeve, wanting to beg her to stay.

She smiled, hugging me tightly, placing a kiss onto my cheek, “We’ll see each other again, I promise.” I sighed as the both us then rose from the couch, and walked towards the door.

Marron and I gave each other one as we stood in the driveway. The car’s engine slowly hummed in the background, feeling the chilling wind breeze past us. She pulled back, kissing my forehead, “I have to go now.” I nodded, still clinging to her.

She smiled, “I'll call you when I get home. Ok sweetie?” I nodded, looking up at her. She smiled, “Love you Baby Ahri.”

I giggled, “Love you too Marron.”

She grinned, “There’s that beautiful smile.” I giggled once more.

“Ok…I’ll see you later.”

“Bye Marron.”

She then stepped back and slipped into the car, with the door closing behind her. The window rolled down with her hand poking out, waving to me. I giggled, waving back, watching as the car slowly started to pull away.

I ran after her for a bit, before stopping a few steps later. The car soon disappeared down the driveway and turned onto the main road, heading for the airfield. I stood there for a moment, just quiet and alone in my thoughts.

A few moments later, I felt myself being pulled into something. Looking up, I saw Silvi’s warm smile. “Hi.”

She turned me around and hoisted me into the as though I were a child, holding me as such, “You all right Little Wing?”

I nodded to her, wrapping my arms around my sister, “Just saying goodbye to one sister.”

She smiled, rocking me tenderly, “You still have yet another who loves you just as much.”

I clung to her tightly, laying my head onto her chest. My dragonic sister gave me one fine squeeze before lowering back onto the driveway, “Come on, why don’t we head back inside and get something to eat. Its past lunchtime and I’m starving.”

I giggled, “You always are.”

She grinned, bearing her fangs at me. I looked around her to see Fenris sitting in the middle of the driveway, both tails curled around him.

I took a deep breath and nodded, “Yeah, let’s go get some lunch.” Silvi folded her wings as we headed back inside, with my bonded walking beside me, staying close. I ran my fingers through his fur, looking up to see Rachel standing in the doorway.

This was a good birthday, but seeing everyone leave sucked the most. But now I had something to look forward to. So onwards I march.