[Not a word as Crow settled on Kazahana's other side, his female body a great deal more petite and less strong than normal.]
I thought I told you to be cautious, Kazahana-san.
[Fortunately the body could still work basic jutsu, the ones he remembered, including the emergency aid.] If I may, Lezard-san...
[It wasn't a question, and Crow's hands, or the hands of the body he currently occupied, glowed blue with faint chakra as he pressed them to Kazahana's wounds, intending to close off the blood flow in those areas temporarily, to give the head medic more time to work.]
[The watchman arrived soon after. He eased somewhat upon seeing the head medic beginning to tend to her injuries.]
Your call was heard! Well met, Lezard and Crow. But Kazahana! Wounded? You shan't know death so soon. Come, if you've still your sight-
[Carefully, his hands held her form steady by her shoulders; he knew she couldn't be moved so soon. Yet, some combination of his touch and his words- in conjunction with her prior treatments- seeming to breathe the breath right back into her lungs and the clarity back to her senses.]
You've done enough. Wellspring's your home tonight.
I never did like how long it takes to teleport with some degree of accuracy.
[Ah, and here were Crow and Reed to offer their assistance. Upon admiring their handiwork, he set to cleansing the open wounds, then dressed them accordingly. The bag was returned to for a small case filled with syringes of local anesthetic. As much as he'd like to make a show of whipping out the needles, this time he was subtle in the application.]
You have my thanks, Crow. ...Perhaps the chiding for her actions can wait until she has had some time to recover. While she is currently stable, we aren't certain of any lasting effects of the battle at the moment.
[And now, a glance to the remains of the evil twin, then to Reed.]
I have staff standing by to admit Kazahana. Would you be so kind as to escort the little lady to Wellspring? Crow is welcome to accompany you, and see to the success of the escort... Hel knows what else might be running about. I would like to examine the remains of this double for a moment, but I will return once I finish.
[She was a little surprised that they'd all arrived so fast, but she wasn't complaining. It had been necessary, but her wound hurt like hell until Lezard injected her with...whatever it was. At the moment, she didn't care, and the sting of the needle was nothing in comparison to what she already felt.]
That feels...better. Thank you, Lezard, Reed. I didn't know you could heal.
[She hadn't, had she? She couldn't recall much about Reed, but her head was starting to go a little fuzzy with the painkillers.]
Crow, I was--ow--as cautious as I could be. She was taking people's minds away from them. Couldn't risk it.
[Crow released his jutsu when Reed and Lezard finished--stalling Kazahana's blood flow to the areas after the wounds were mostly closed would only harm her healing.]
[He stood, glancing around the arena. He heard the words directed at him but chose to ignore them for a moment, that his scolding had been meant more to tease and annoy Kazahana was something he didn't bother to explain. His sense of humor, he knew, was somewhat off to begin with.]
Reed-san, if you would carry her I shall escort you. [A glance at Lezard, a raised eyebrow and a tilt of his head to indicate that if the medic found anything of note, Crow was interested, before he turned and stepped a little away, prepared to escort the other two back to Wellspring.]
[The only advantage to this body was its health and good vision, his ability to sense people was so diminished he almost felt blind in an entirely different sense. He would stay close to Reed and Kazahana, if only because he could not be sure there was no other danger around.]
[He listened patiently, his grip on Kazahana's shoulders turning to a gentle lifting force- tentatively at first, to see if she was in any condition to rise- and aided her into his arms; she was light enough, and he could hardly ask Crow to carry her in his current state.]
Do rest, Kazahana; you're safe. I'll bear You o'er to Wellspring, safe within their care.
[One last nod of thanks to Lezard, and one of acknowledgement to Crow. Once he felt her soundly in his arms, he was off to wellspring, his pace thankfully brisk in spite of his passenger...]
[There's a blot and nothing more as Simon rushes to help, as well. Going through his mind right now: "My sister first, then Handmaiden, oh PLEASE, GOD, don't let Kazahana be next."
ETA: Actually, let's say he went to Wellspring to help prepare for her arrival, if that's OK.]
[This is Toushi not answering because it takes so damn long to write, but bolting straight over to Wellspring to meet her there, feeling completely sick to the stomach that this happened and he wasn't there to stop it.]
[Kazahana had protested weakly when Reed had lifted her to bring her back to the clinic, but not for long. She could already tell that their healing abilities had done a lot for her injuries, but it was also evident that Lezard's painkillers had had an effect as well, and she wouldn't be entirely steady on her feet. Besides, a good medic knew when to be a good patient...even if one was much more difficult than the other.
It wasn't the most comfortable trip ever, but when they reached the clinic, she was put into a patient bed where she could relax. She offered Reed a bleary thanks and proceeded to stare at the ceiling, still conscious but a little detached, and waited.]
[Toushi hadn't been far away from the clinic; fed up and anxious of waiting he had gone outside to pace rather than get underfoot of the somewhat frazzled medical team. However, the moment he felt Kazahana's reiatsu he was inside there quicker than he realised he was conscious of moving.
He couldn't ever remember feeling this angry before. How could she have done something as stupid as take on the clone by herself? Hadn't she any idea how dangerous and crazy that was? He was fully prepared to let her have a piece of his mind, but the moment he saw her in the patient bed his anger left him rapidly.
For a moment, he just stared at her in relief that she was alive but she was hurt. She was covered in bandages, her face was bruised and he felt appalled.]
You- you idiot! What were you thinking?
[His voice was heavily laced with bitterness, but she would never know that it was partly directed at himself. He moved closer to her bed, frowning with concern.]
Why did you go and do something stupid like that, you could've been killed! Why didn't you-
[When Simon had seen Kazahana's journal entry, he'd rushed to Wellspring first to see if someone was preparing for her arrival- and taken over the task of it. This helped to keep his mind off his sister's departure, and Handmaiden losing her memories, and the worrying and trying hard not to break down and wondering what ELSE was going to go wrong this weekend.
Upon Kazahana's arrival, he was relieved to see that she'd obviously been given treatment at the scene and had thanked the young man who had brought her in before setting about making Kazahana comfortable and checking to make sure her injuries were properly treated.
He knew that she probably was not going to be left in peace for long, no matter how hard he tried, so he was entirely unsurprised when the orange-haired young man burst into the exam room. When he spoke, his voice was calm and clinical, masking the annoyance he was feeling.]
[She couldn't help but smile, at least a little bit. She'd known he'd react this way, and taken that into account to her decision to go. He'd feel guilty later, she knew that too and felt bad about it, but she didn't regret what she'd done. Toushi was determined to protect his loved ones at all cost. How could she refuse to do the same?
But the pleasant haze that the drugs had cast over her made it difficult to fret just now.]
It wasn't stupid. She could have taken all your memories away again. Wasn't going to let that happen.
[Her voice was quieter than usual, but just as resolute.]
And your face looks dumb when it scrunches up like that.
[It was a relief that Simon was there. She didn't want Toushi to go, but a calmer head with a voice of authority would help right now. And it was good to have friends nearby.]
Will—Simon, it's okay. He can stay. [She coughed.] Just don't let him work himself into a fit.
[Toushi could see that she needed rest, he could see how exhausted she looked and how drawn. He knew it must have been a terrible ordeal, and he quickly squashed back the rising sense of anger he felt that she hadn't waited for him to go with her. Hadn't she trusted him enough?
She said she wanted to protect him. Somewhere deep inside him, something tugged as though that wasn't the first time he'd realised she wanted to keep him safe. He'd make a note of that.
He turned to the medic, apology written all over his face, but before he could mumble the words, Kazahana coughed and his attention turned back to her.]
Moron, you look dumb all banged up like that. Don't talk or you'll open something up again and you'll look even dumber.
[His voice was softer, laced with concern.]
Next time you pick a damn fight, could you let me know so this shit doesn't happen again? How'm I meant to watch your back if you don't tell me?
[There's an unknown voice in the corridor outside the room, seemingly speaking to a nurse or an attendant.]
In here? Thank you very much. I won't be a bother, I promise. I just want to see that she's alright.
[Koi was worried, of course, and it was impossible for him to stay away, even though he knew he should let her rest. Just a short visit couldn't hurt, could it? Even if she was sleeping, just seeing her in one piece would bring some relief to his heart - no matter how selfish that would seem. He felt so responsible for her, and she was a close friend... how could he stay away?
Opening the door, he gave a soft warning knock as he stepped inside.]
Kazahana? Are you-
...oh my.
[...he should have realized Toushi was there. This would be awkward.]
[Her words were coming out softer and a little slurred, though thankfully not to the point at which she'd sound like a drunken fool, but she couldn't seem to change that. She'd have to ask Lezard what he'd given her, later.]
I—
[Someone else had entered, maybe another medic or a friend come to check on her, but when she turned to look, she saw him.
That face.
She'd never forget that face—she couldn't. The last time she'd seen it, he was laughing, twisting a sword in her gut, and her midsection began to burn at the memory. He'd killed her, and now she couldn't move to defend herself, not with the damned drugs clouding her mind and slowing her down, and where was Shirayuki?]
I-I-I—
[Her breathing had more than doubled in speed, and she couldn't seem to speak properly. Drawing her knees up to curl around her midsection protectively, she simultaneously cringed away from hm, getting as far away as she could on the small examination bed.
What was wrong with Toushi and Simon? Why weren't they doing something?]
[Toushi felt someone's reiatsu approaching and frowned as he didn't recognise it, and then a moment later he froze as he saw... he saw someone who looked just like him walk into the room. It was uncanny. The newcomer's hair was black, and his eyes were greeny-blue with longer eyelashes, and maybe he had a few inches height-wise on Toushi but apart from that... it was like looking into an imperfect mirror.]
Who are-
[He would have asked more, but at that moment Kazahana's reiatsu flared and Toushi turned to find her staring at the newcomer in horror. He had never seen her so terrified- She was having a panic attack by the look of things.]
Kazahana!
[He found himself looking across at the other guy, the medic, pleading with his eyes to help calm her down before turning his attention back to the other guy. Something about this guy was upsetting her, and Toushi found himself taking her fear as a very good indication that this guy wasn't to be trusted. Was this another evil twin?
Toushi wasn't going to hang around to find out. With one hand on Zangetsu's hilt, he turned to address the newcomer with a snarl.]
You heard her. I don't know who the hell you are or who you're trying to kid coming in here looking like me, but get the hell out before I make you.
[Simon found himself edging towards the door as Kazahana and her friend spoke, now that she'd affirmed that it was alright for him to stay. He wasn't happy that she was getting upset when she needed to relax more than anything, but he had an inkling that he wasn't going to make either of them budge.]
Should I leave-?
[His question was a little weak, and he fell silent as they spoke, resorting to his usual nervous habit of sticking a finger in his mouth, biting down softly. He felt awkward all of a sudden and was relieved when he heard a voice out in the hallway, which he was pretty sure was Koi- or the voice of the body he was trapped in anyway.]
Dad! I-
[Simon fell silent along with the others, shocked at the unexpected reaction, fear from Kazahana and anger from her friend- and then he recoiled, hit by a sudden wave of slight nausea. Through it, he knew he had to do SOMETHING. He protectively stood in front of Koi, his confusion and frustration and tiredness making his voice loud, sharp and angry.]
SETTLE DOWN. ALL OF YOU. This is Koi. He's trapped in somebody else's body, remember? ... I don't know what's going on here, but he's not going to hurt either of you.
[He had expected confusion... shock, even. But nothing like this. When Koi saw Kazahana's panicked fear his eyes widened in bewilderment and he lifted his hands in a calming gesture to show that he meant well.]
Kazahana, I'm-
[He was interrupted by Toushi's angry snarl and lowered his hands again. It seemed like things were going a bit out of control, and he had not come here to upset anyone - especially not Kazahana.
Who ever this boy was... something most have happened. But he could not fathom the sweet young man he had seen in his memory do anything that could upset the small woman this much.]
I will leave.
[He was grateful for Will's help, but Kazahana's health was the most important thing.]
[She struggled to get a grip on herself, but it was difficult when the unexpected shot of fear had only done so much to clear her mind, and every muscle in her body seemed to have gone rigid.
She didn't feel in control of anything right now, not even herself, and the face of the man who'd lured her, trapped her and murdered her was the last thing she'd expected tonight. Even if he looked as shocked as her her friends did, all she could remember was the triumphant sneer on his face before things had gone black.
But Simon and Toushi wouldn't let him hurt her, even if it felt like she was back there again. She had to get a grip.]
[At the other man's words, Toushi's resolve faltered but his grip on Zangetsu never slackened. The other man was protecting the stranger and seemed angry at Toushi's response, but he was more concerned with the way that Kazahana seemed frozen to the spot in fear. He had never seen her like this before, it shook him.]
If you're Koi then prove it.
[In response to the rigidity in Kazahana's frame, his voice sounded wholly unconvinced. Still tense, he backed closer to the bed and stood slightly in front of her, but still within reach for him to drop a hand gently on her shoulder. His instincts screamed at him to get rid of this man, but he was torn by the desire to comfort his shaken friend. At her words his eyes widened in surprised then narrowed in disgust.]
You hear that? That guy killed her. How do we know he's not just pretending to be Koi?
[This was just... this was weird, even by the Tree's standards for him. He squeezed Kazahana's shoulder lightly, hoping the action could convey his sentiments. 'You're safe. I'm here with you. I won't let anyone hurt you again.']
[Simon looked over at Kazahana, then back at Koi, uncertain of what to do, his mouth hanging open slightly. Killed her. This man, the one whose body Koi was in, had killed her. He had no idea she'd even died once in the first place- though he realized it made sense, considering how long she'd been in the Sphere. The feelings of physical discomfort he'd experienced were still there; wiping sweat off his forehead, he moved closer to Kazahana, concern etched on his features. He felt stuck between a rock and a hard place right now; considering the evil doubles, the orange-haired young man DID have a point, but on the other hand...
He leaned in close to Kazahana and spoke in a soothing tone, the one he'd used when trying to calm his sister- his stomach gave a lurch at the memories.]
Kazahana. It's okay. If he intended to hurt you, he would have by now. I know he's in that body because I live with him... but...
[He looked helplessly at Koi.]
Bàba... if you think you should go... I don't want anybody to get hurt. This doesn't have to turn ugly.
[Simon then pressed a hand to his forehead. His mind was fogging, and the small amount of physical discomfort was still present.]
[Killed her. This man... this boy - his boy - had killed Kazahana? Koi's entire being protested against this and he looked away from the woman in the bed to not startle her more. Taking a deep breath - he could breathe so freely - Koi tried frantically to collect his thoughts.
Waking up with this face made him realize that he had mistaken Toushi for the young man in his dream; he looked almost exactly like Toushi - there was no doubt that the two were related. Logic and resemblance said so, after all. If not twins or brothers, then at least cousins.
The man he had been speaking to could not have done such a terrible thing as this. While he had not heard a word, the way the other had been acting told of nothing else but kindness, stubbornness and a slightly goofy side. It had given him feeling of pride, family and trust. That he so instinctively reacted against Kazahana's accusation made Koi even more certain.
It couldn't be true. Please don't be true.
Putting a hand on Simon's shoulder, he shook his head softly.]
Sit down.
[You have enough on your mind as it is.]
Toushi. Tell me how to prove that I'm Koi.
[He would leave, but leaving now without reassuring both Toushi and Kazahana would only bring up more fear and terror for the girl. She needed to rest, and rest did not come easy for someone thinking that their murderer was afoot in Edensphere.]
[Toushi wracked his brains for a moment, trying to think of something that only Koi would know. He thought back to the day they met, when Koi had first told him his suspicions about their relationship. Then the answer came to him. It was a lame question, but one he knew the answer to, and only Koi had been present at the time. It was so trivial he hadn't even breathed a word of it to anyone else.]
The day I met Koi... what kinda cookies did he give me? And what did he tell me afterwards?
[It wasn't much to go on, but it was a start. Toushi didn't let up with his glare for one second, not while this was still unresolved.
It was freaky looking at someone who looked so similar. Really, really freaky. It unsettled him almost as much as Kazahana's insistence that a man wearing this face had killed her...
...Wait, her murderer had looked like him? Why hadn't she told him that? Damn it, that was way too much of a coincidence for his liking. Like it or not, he was going to make her talk about what had happened when she was feeling better.]
[Kazahana looked from Simon, to Toushi, to that man--Koi--but only briefly at the latter. Her fast still beat so fast that it felt like there was a terrified butterfly in her chest, but she was starting to calm down, faster than she'd have expected. Another effect of Lezard's drugs, no doubt.
The man whose name she'd never known looked upset, but calm. Maybe even sincere. And if Simon thought he knew who he was, couldn't she trust him? But it seemed so wrong that Koi could ever be in the body of someone like that.
She focused on slowing her breathing as she waited for him to answer Toushi's question. She didn't know the answer, but Koi would. Until he spoke, she couldn't bring herself to say anything one way or the other.]
[Simon was glad for Koi's touch and briefly covered the older man's hand with his own, before pulling a chair close and seating himself. He didn't like the fact that the orange-haired man- Toushi- would not take his hand off of his sword, but a tiny bit of the tension seemed to have been defused.
His head was spinning. Kazahana had died, and here Koi apparently was, in the body of her killer. He wished there was something he could do to make things better, or even fathom how she must be feeling at the moment. But he knew he was more or less helpless, and so he waited.]
[Koi takes a moment to remember the first time he met Toushi and their little chat that had turned out so awkwardly.]
Oatmeal. You couldn't choose so I said they were the best ones.
[There was a small, sad smile from the old man in the young body, and he looked at Toushi. No matter what was going on here, it was upsetting for all of them. Kazahana the most, but Toushi as well. They were so very alike, after all.]
You had come to visit me since you had my dream. We discussed it, and then I told you that I believed we were related. That I was your father... and you didn't think it was much to go on. We decided I should be there for you as a friend until we knew more.
[Toushi listened to the other man's words- it felt so strange hearing those things come from a voice that was so unfamiliar- but... there was no way that it couldn't be Koi.
He let his hand fall from Zangetsu; it balled into a fist at his side as he looked from Kazahana to the other man whose name he still hadn't got from anyone to... Koi. In a body that looked like his. That had killed Kazahana.]
Wh- what's going on? There's no way you can be anyone but Koi, but-
[This was almost too much to take.]
Who is he? Who the hell is this guy, Koi? Kazahana?
[Kazahana breathed out slowly, able to relax a bit for the first time since the stranger had entered. She hadn't been there during the encounter Toushi described, but just from looking at him, she knew the correct answer had been given.
So this was Koi. It didn't look like him, but it did sound like him in a way, even if it wasn't his voice. He wasn't here to hurt her. That didn't make it much easier to have him here.]
I don't know.
[The statement was largely directed at Toushi, her voice softer, as though she'd used all her energy on going into a state of high-alert after Koi had arrived.]
I just saw his face. That's all.
[Hesitantly, she looked at Koi. Was he going to hate her now? But this wasn't either of their fault, was it?]
There were a lot of people who ended up with the wrong bodies, but the danger of the evil versions of others were more pressing for it to be noticeable, I guess.
[He gave Kazahana a slight smile and shook his head.]
Think nothing of it. You do not need to apologize for anything.
[He nodded to Toushi and then gave Will's shoulder a small pat. It would be best if he left, now that Kazahana knew he was not the man that had harmed her.]
When your health is better, Kazahana, we need to talk about this. Together with Toushi. What ever is going on, we need to get to the bottom of it before something like this happens again.
[Toushi just... didn't know what to make of this at all. He had accepted that it was Koi, but that still didn't explain much about the fact that such a person existed. This person looked so much like him. He had killed Kazahana. They didn't know who he was. But-
He couldn't stop staring at Koi. Damn, they were so alike! What was this man to him? To Koi? To Kazahana? How could he have killed her? And what had happened after he had done the deed?
This was making his head hurt.
Mutely, he nodded to Koi's suggestion, his eyes automatically going to Kazahana's face to try and gauge her view on this. He didn't even want to think how stupidly confused and alarmed he must have been looking at that moment.]
[Simon stood up as Koi was preparing to leave, the slight sickness he'd been feeling starting to dissipate just as the tension and suspicion in the air had. He smiled slightly at his father and gave him the tiniest of smiles and a brief, one-armed hug.]
I'll be home as soon as I can, Dad. We might be busy here for a while, though. See you later.
[He then turned to the other two and spoke in the same soft tone he'd used before.]
Are the two of you going to be alright? I'm not going to press for details, nor do I really want to know them, but- do you want me to leave as well?
[She curled up in her bed and drew the nearly kicked-off sheet up over her, suddenly even more tired now that the adrenaline was wearing off. She didn't want to look at any of them again right now, lest the confusion and shame show in her eyes.
She appreciated all of their concern, even Koi's—especially Koi's, for all that his arrival had turned things upside down—but she didn't know what else to do now. Wait for morning—then she'd decide.]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
In the Coliseum. She's dead. Need help.
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Your help shall come in aid to you ere long!
[Translation: Reed's coming to help, but stuck in purple prose.]
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All right kids, quicklog time! All concerned parties over here.
My, my, dearest Kazahana, you've made a mess of this poor double! I dare say there's hardly anything left of her, HA!
...All right, all right, let's see~
[He had to stabilize her... that was a lot of blood. He got to work, taking fresh bandages and antiseptic from his bag...]
...ew, boss.
[She breathed out harshly, relieved now that someone was here. She didn't feel like dying just yet--but the help was far from unwelcome.]
Took you long enough. Are you getting slow, Lezard?
[...and she wasn't so hurt she couldn't tease him a little. It might reassure him that she'd be all right, even.]
... ... /handcuffs, both of you
I thought I told you to be cautious, Kazahana-san.
[Fortunately the body could still work basic jutsu, the ones he remembered, including the emergency aid.] If I may, Lezard-san...
[It wasn't a question, and Crow's hands, or the hands of the body he currently occupied, glowed blue with faint chakra as he pressed them to Kazahana's wounds, intending to close off the blood flow in those areas temporarily, to give the head medic more time to work.]
Quicklog]
Your call was heard! Well met, Lezard and Crow.
But Kazahana! Wounded? You shan't know
death so soon. Come, if you've still your sight-
[Carefully, his hands held her form steady by her shoulders; he knew she couldn't be moved so soon. Yet, some combination of his touch and his words- in conjunction with her prior treatments- seeming to breathe the breath right back into her lungs and the clarity back to her senses.]
You've done enough. Wellspring's your home tonight.
Quicklog
I never did like how long it takes to teleport with some degree of accuracy.
[Ah, and here were Crow and Reed to offer their assistance. Upon admiring their handiwork, he set to cleansing the open wounds, then dressed them accordingly. The bag was returned to for a small case filled with syringes of local anesthetic. As much as he'd like to make a show of whipping out the needles, this time he was subtle in the application.]
You have my thanks, Crow. ...Perhaps the chiding for her actions can wait until she has had some time to recover. While she is currently stable, we aren't certain of any lasting effects of the battle at the moment.
[And now, a glance to the remains of the evil twin, then to Reed.]
I have staff standing by to admit Kazahana. Would you be so kind as to escort the little lady to Wellspring? Crow is welcome to accompany you, and see to the success of the escort... Hel knows what else might be running about. I would like to examine the remains of this double for a moment, but I will return once I finish.
Quicklog
That feels...better. Thank you, Lezard, Reed. I didn't know you could heal.
[She hadn't, had she? She couldn't recall much about Reed, but her head was starting to go a little fuzzy with the painkillers.]
Crow, I was--ow--as cautious as I could be. She was taking people's minds away from them. Couldn't risk it.
Quicklog
[He stood, glancing around the arena. He heard the words directed at him but chose to ignore them for a moment, that his scolding had been meant more to tease and annoy Kazahana was something he didn't bother to explain. His sense of humor, he knew, was somewhat off to begin with.]
Reed-san, if you would carry her I shall escort you. [A glance at Lezard, a raised eyebrow and a tilt of his head to indicate that if the medic found anything of note, Crow was interested, before he turned and stepped a little away, prepared to escort the other two back to Wellspring.]
[The only advantage to this body was its health and good vision, his ability to sense people was so diminished he almost felt blind in an entirely different sense. He would stay close to Reed and Kazahana, if only because he could not be sure there was no other danger around.]
Quicklog
Do rest, Kazahana; you're safe. I'll bear
You o'er to Wellspring, safe within their care.
[One last nod of thanks to Lezard, and one of acknowledgement to Crow. Once he felt her soundly in his arms, he was off to wellspring, his pace thankfully brisk in spite of his passenger...]
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[There's a blot and nothing more as Simon rushes to help, as well. Going through his mind right now: "My sister first, then Handmaiden, oh PLEASE, GOD, don't let Kazahana be next."
ETA: Actually, let's say he went to Wellspring to help prepare for her arrival, if that's OK.]
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[Bolting to Wellspring, too. WHICH IS BAD.]
QUICKLOG at Wellspring
It wasn't the most comfortable trip ever, but when they reached the clinic, she was put into a patient bed where she could relax. She offered Reed a bleary thanks and proceeded to stare at the ceiling, still conscious but a little detached, and waited.]
QUICKLOG!
He couldn't ever remember feeling this angry before. How could she have done something as stupid as take on the clone by herself? Hadn't she any idea how dangerous and crazy that was? He was fully prepared to let her have a piece of his mind, but the moment he saw her in the patient bed his anger left him rapidly.
For a moment, he just stared at her in relief that she was alive but she was hurt. She was covered in bandages, her face was bruised and he felt appalled.]
You- you idiot! What were you thinking?
[His voice was heavily laced with bitterness, but she would never know that it was partly directed at himself. He moved closer to her bed, frowning with concern.]
Why did you go and do something stupid like that, you could've been killed! Why didn't you-
[He couldn't bring himself to finish.]
QUICKLOG
Upon Kazahana's arrival, he was relieved to see that she'd obviously been given treatment at the scene and had thanked the young man who had brought her in before setting about making Kazahana comfortable and checking to make sure her injuries were properly treated.
He knew that she probably was not going to be left in peace for long, no matter how hard he tried, so he was entirely unsurprised when the orange-haired young man burst into the exam room. When he spoke, his voice was calm and clinical, masking the annoyance he was feeling.]
She needs rest. Can this wait until later?
QUICKLOG
But the pleasant haze that the drugs had cast over her made it difficult to fret just now.]
It wasn't stupid. She could have taken all your memories away again. Wasn't going to let that happen.
[Her voice was quieter than usual, but just as resolute.]
And your face looks dumb when it scrunches up like that.
[It was a relief that Simon was there. She didn't want Toushi to go, but a calmer head with a voice of authority would help right now. And it was good to have friends nearby.]
Will—Simon, it's okay. He can stay. [She coughed.] Just don't let him work himself into a fit.
QUICKLOG
She said she wanted to protect him. Somewhere deep inside him, something tugged as though that wasn't the first time he'd realised she wanted to keep him safe. He'd make a note of that.
He turned to the medic, apology written all over his face, but before he could mumble the words, Kazahana coughed and his attention turned back to her.]
Moron, you look dumb all banged up like that. Don't talk or you'll open something up again and you'll look even dumber.
[His voice was softer, laced with concern.]
Next time you pick a damn fight, could you let me know so this shit doesn't happen again? How'm I meant to watch your back if you don't tell me?
QUICKLOG
In here? Thank you very much. I won't be a bother, I promise. I just want to see that she's alright.
[Koi was worried, of course, and it was impossible for him to stay away, even though he knew he should let her rest. Just a short visit couldn't hurt, could it? Even if she was sleeping, just seeing her in one piece would bring some relief to his heart - no matter how selfish that would seem. He felt so responsible for her, and she was a close friend... how could he stay away?
Opening the door, he gave a soft warning knock as he stepped inside.]
Kazahana? Are you-
...oh my.
[...he should have realized Toushi was there. This would be awkward.]
QUICKLOG
[Her words were coming out softer and a little slurred, though thankfully not to the point at which she'd sound like a drunken fool, but she couldn't seem to change that. She'd have to ask Lezard what he'd given her, later.]
I—
[Someone else had entered, maybe another medic or a friend come to check on her, but when she turned to look, she saw him.
That face.
She'd never forget that face—she couldn't. The last time she'd seen it, he was laughing, twisting a sword in her gut, and her midsection began to burn at the memory. He'd killed her, and now she couldn't move to defend herself, not with the damned drugs clouding her mind and slowing her down, and where was Shirayuki?]
I-I-I—
[Her breathing had more than doubled in speed, and she couldn't seem to speak properly. Drawing her knees up to curl around her midsection protectively, she simultaneously cringed away from hm, getting as far away as she could on the small examination bed.
What was wrong with Toushi and Simon? Why weren't they doing something?]
No—don't—get away from me!
QUICKLOG
Who are-
[He would have asked more, but at that moment Kazahana's reiatsu flared and Toushi turned to find her staring at the newcomer in horror. He had never seen her so terrified- She was having a panic attack by the look of things.]
Kazahana!
[He found himself looking across at the other guy, the medic, pleading with his eyes to help calm her down before turning his attention back to the other guy. Something about this guy was upsetting her, and Toushi found himself taking her fear as a very good indication that this guy wasn't to be trusted. Was this another evil twin?
Toushi wasn't going to hang around to find out. With one hand on Zangetsu's hilt, he turned to address the newcomer with a snarl.]
You heard her. I don't know who the hell you are or who you're trying to kid coming in here looking like me, but get the hell out before I make you.
QUICKLOG
Should I leave-?
[His question was a little weak, and he fell silent as they spoke, resorting to his usual nervous habit of sticking a finger in his mouth, biting down softly. He felt awkward all of a sudden and was relieved when he heard a voice out in the hallway, which he was pretty sure was Koi- or the voice of the body he was trapped in anyway.]
Dad! I-
[Simon fell silent along with the others, shocked at the unexpected reaction, fear from Kazahana and anger from her friend- and then he recoiled, hit by a sudden wave of slight nausea. Through it, he knew he had to do SOMETHING. He protectively stood in front of Koi, his confusion and frustration and tiredness making his voice loud, sharp and angry.]
SETTLE DOWN. ALL OF YOU. This is Koi. He's trapped in somebody else's body, remember? ... I don't know what's going on here, but he's not going to hurt either of you.
QUICKLOG
Kazahana, I'm-
[He was interrupted by Toushi's angry snarl and lowered his hands again. It seemed like things were going a bit out of control, and he had not come here to upset anyone - especially not Kazahana.
Who ever this boy was... something most have happened. But he could not fathom the sweet young man he had seen in his memory do anything that could upset the small woman this much.]
I will leave.
[He was grateful for Will's help, but Kazahana's health was the most important thing.]
QUICKLOG
[She struggled to get a grip on herself, but it was difficult when the unexpected shot of fear had only done so much to clear her mind, and every muscle in her body seemed to have gone rigid.
She didn't feel in control of anything right now, not even herself, and the face of the man who'd lured her, trapped her and murdered her was the last thing she'd expected tonight. Even if he looked as shocked as her her friends did, all she could remember was the triumphant sneer on his face before things had gone black.
But Simon and Toushi wouldn't let him hurt her, even if it felt like she was back there again. She had to get a grip.]
That's him. The man who killed me last year.
QUICKLOG
If you're Koi then prove it.
[In response to the rigidity in Kazahana's frame, his voice sounded wholly unconvinced. Still tense, he backed closer to the bed and stood slightly in front of her, but still within reach for him to drop a hand gently on her shoulder. His instincts screamed at him to get rid of this man, but he was torn by the desire to comfort his shaken friend. At her words his eyes widened in surprised then narrowed in disgust.]
You hear that? That guy killed her. How do we know he's not just pretending to be Koi?
[This was just... this was weird, even by the Tree's standards for him. He squeezed Kazahana's shoulder lightly, hoping the action could convey his sentiments. 'You're safe. I'm here with you. I won't let anyone hurt you again.']
QUICKLOG
He leaned in close to Kazahana and spoke in a soothing tone, the one he'd used when trying to calm his sister- his stomach gave a lurch at the memories.]
Kazahana. It's okay. If he intended to hurt you, he would have by now. I know he's in that body because I live with him... but...
[He looked helplessly at Koi.]
Bàba... if you think you should go... I don't want anybody to get hurt. This doesn't have to turn ugly.
[Simon then pressed a hand to his forehead. His mind was fogging, and the small amount of physical discomfort was still present.]
Why am I feeling lightheaded all of a sudden?
QUICKLOG
Waking up with this face made him realize that he had mistaken Toushi for the young man in his dream; he looked almost exactly like Toushi - there was no doubt that the two were related. Logic and resemblance said so, after all. If not twins or brothers, then at least cousins.
The man he had been speaking to could not have done such a terrible thing as this. While he had not heard a word, the way the other had been acting told of nothing else but kindness, stubbornness and a slightly goofy side. It had given him feeling of pride, family and trust. That he so instinctively reacted against Kazahana's accusation made Koi even more certain.
It couldn't be true. Please don't be true.
Putting a hand on Simon's shoulder, he shook his head softly.]
Sit down.
[You have enough on your mind as it is.]
Toushi. Tell me how to prove that I'm Koi.
[He would leave, but leaving now without reassuring both Toushi and Kazahana would only bring up more fear and terror for the girl. She needed to rest, and rest did not come easy for someone thinking that their murderer was afoot in Edensphere.]
QUICKLOG
The day I met Koi... what kinda cookies did he give me? And what did he tell me afterwards?
[It wasn't much to go on, but it was a start. Toushi didn't let up with his glare for one second, not while this was still unresolved.
It was freaky looking at someone who looked so similar. Really, really freaky. It unsettled him almost as much as Kazahana's insistence that a man wearing this face had killed her...
...Wait, her murderer had looked like him? Why hadn't she told him that? Damn it, that was way too much of a coincidence for his liking. Like it or not, he was going to make her talk about what had happened when she was feeling better.]
QUICKLOG
The man whose name she'd never known looked upset, but calm. Maybe even sincere. And if Simon thought he knew who he was, couldn't she trust him? But it seemed so wrong that Koi could ever be in the body of someone like that.
She focused on slowing her breathing as she waited for him to answer Toushi's question. She didn't know the answer, but Koi would. Until he spoke, she couldn't bring herself to say anything one way or the other.]
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His head was spinning. Kazahana had died, and here Koi apparently was, in the body of her killer. He wished there was something he could do to make things better, or even fathom how she must be feeling at the moment. But he knew he was more or less helpless, and so he waited.]
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Oatmeal. You couldn't choose so I said they were the best ones.
[There was a small, sad smile from the old man in the young body, and he looked at Toushi. No matter what was going on here, it was upsetting for all of them. Kazahana the most, but Toushi as well. They were so very alike, after all.]
You had come to visit me since you had my dream. We discussed it, and then I told you that I believed we were related. That I was your father... and you didn't think it was much to go on. We decided I should be there for you as a friend until we knew more.
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He let his hand fall from Zangetsu; it balled into a fist at his side as he looked from Kazahana to the other man whose name he still hadn't got from anyone to... Koi. In a body that looked like his. That had killed Kazahana.]
Wh- what's going on? There's no way you can be anyone but Koi, but-
[This was almost too much to take.]
Who is he? Who the hell is this guy, Koi? Kazahana?
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So this was Koi. It didn't look like him, but it did sound like him in a way, even if it wasn't his voice. He wasn't here to hurt her. That didn't make it much easier to have him here.]
I don't know.
[The statement was largely directed at Toushi, her voice softer, as though she'd used all her energy on going into a state of high-alert after Koi had arrived.]
I just saw his face. That's all.
[Hesitantly, she looked at Koi. Was he going to hate her now? But this wasn't either of their fault, was it?]
I'm sorry.
no subject
[He gave Kazahana a slight smile and shook his head.]
Think nothing of it. You do not need to apologize for anything.
[He nodded to Toushi and then gave Will's shoulder a small pat. It would be best if he left, now that Kazahana knew he was not the man that had harmed her.]
When your health is better, Kazahana, we need to talk about this. Together with Toushi. What ever is going on, we need to get to the bottom of it before something like this happens again.
[Koi turned to leave.]
Rest.
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He couldn't stop staring at Koi. Damn, they were so alike! What was this man to him? To Koi? To Kazahana? How could he have killed her? And what had happened after he had done the deed?
This was making his head hurt.
Mutely, he nodded to Koi's suggestion, his eyes automatically going to Kazahana's face to try and gauge her view on this. He didn't even want to think how stupidly confused and alarmed he must have been looking at that moment.]
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I'll be home as soon as I can, Dad. We might be busy here for a while, though. See you later.
[He then turned to the other two and spoke in the same soft tone he'd used before.]
Are the two of you going to be alright? I'm not going to press for details, nor do I really want to know them, but- do you want me to leave as well?
no subject
[She curled up in her bed and drew the nearly kicked-off sheet up over her, suddenly even more tired now that the adrenaline was wearing off. She didn't want to look at any of them again right now, lest the confusion and shame show in her eyes.
She appreciated all of their concern, even Koi's—especially Koi's, for all that his arrival had turned things upside down—but she didn't know what else to do now. Wait for morning—then she'd decide.]