The Village: Season Two

[Liamane]

"I understand now, thank you Vincent!" Kohana replied giving the Turk a hug. "I just have to be myself."

Standing up in front of Vincent, Kohana held out her hand offering a hand. She gave the man a soft smile as he got up and placed his hand in hers. "Let's see what Miyo is doing now." she said leading them out of her room going out of the house. "She should be working in the garden."

In the garden outside, Miyo looked at the seeds she planted and checked on the other small crops that grew over a period of weeks. placing soil and watering the plants she looked up and saw Vincent and Kohana watching from a distance. Miyo waved and smiled as she placed the watering can beside her and stood up. "Great day isn't it?! It feels wonderful to be out here but it's even more special to be with you all." Miyo yelled out to them leaving her spot taking off her gloves. She bent down to Kohana's level and sighed a little. "Kohana, I don't want to force you to do anything you don't want to. If you feel better learning here at home- "

"No it's ok Miyo." Kohana said cutting off her sister. "I'll try my best to do good and make new friends. I'm sure mother and father and everyone will be proud of me."
_________________________

Tidus and Naomi sat together talking at the gazebo, while Kikyo and Jiro relaxed in the living area. The priestess place her head on Jiro's lap laying down on the couch. "You know I had a really bad feeling with that Rian person." Jiro said slouching in a seat. "He looked like he was glad to see food but glad to see Vincent even more."

"He kinda had this dark aura around him but it was a different one." Kikyo replied. "It was kinda hard to determine what he's true motives were too."

"Well if he's a threat then we need to find out who this person is. He said he has a sister right?" Jiro said playing with her hair as she closed her eyes. She nodded a yes in reply and looked back at the ex-spy. "As long as he doesn't cause trouble for us and the others then everything should be fine."

_________________________________

"This information will excite Skye and I'm sure that she'll waste no time." Rian thought while walking back to the inn. "I wonder if she knows more than I do. But I guess it's not a waste coming out here; I did get to meet the great Vincent Valentine. "

[Liamane]

Naomi smiled, as Tidus went on about his glory days as a Blitzer back in Zanarkand. Naomi felt as if she new everything about Tidus now, after the hours of stories they told one another. She felt as if he was a part of her now. She couldn't bare to think of the day when he would return to his home, which she felt would indeed happen. She looked down to the ground and saw a daisy. It sparked her memory.

"Oh no!!" She exclaimed frantically, "I forgot all about my job at the flower shop!! Oh......Ms. Kiro is going to fire me for sure....."

Tidus frowned, eventually igniting a smile, then replying, "I'm sure if you just tell her that things have been very hectic in your life right now, she'll understand. After all, you are her best worker."

Naomi smiled too, feeling better after what Tidus told her. She nodded and said, "Yes, I'm sure you're right......but to be on the safe side, I better go check in with her. Say...wait.....don't you have a job to get back to?"

Tidus chuckled, replying, "Well......I took the job as a quick way for currency......and my boss said it was only temporary........I suppose it could wait until tomorrow."

They both laughed and nodded in agreement. Tidus kissed his newly found love on the cheek, before she rushed over to Miyo to tell her where she would be. Soon after, Naomi was on the trail back into town, thoughts plaguing her.

The truth was, she didn't really have any idea where she had been during the battle with Ryu. She supposed the group assumed she had been watching from afar. The last thing she remembered was summon the Aeon, the bright light, then.....arriving back at house. She couldn't imagine what must of happened to affect her memories so greatly. Still, this wasn't her priority at the moment, so she didn't think about it all to much.

Tidus strided over to Jiro inside of the house, who was in conversation with Kikyo. He didn't want to interrupt them, so he waited until Kikyo left into the kitchen, then approached Jiro.

"So...Jiro, you up for that contest?" He asked in a playful manor.

Jiro gave a big grin, replying, "Am I ever! So...whatcha have in mind?"

Tidus frowned and thought, when the idea hit him. With a grin to match Jiro's, he said "Ever heard of......Blitzball??"

---------------------------------------------------------------------

Skye replied to Axel's question, uninterested. "No, not really. I just assumed you came over to say hello to a dear old lover of yours."

Axel smirked and said, "Now Skye, I wouldn't go THAT far. Afterall...does one day really count as love?"

She frowned, "In this world...yes. But more to the point, I suppose I'll humor you. Why are you here Axel?"

"Glad you asked, my lady." Axel bowed to her, rising with a sly grin. "It seems that word of your little scheme is spreading rather quickly."

Skye interjected, "Does he know about it yet?"

Axel replied, "No, and I don't plan on telling him right away...consider it a favor. However...here is a key flaw in your plan, I'm sure you're aware of."

Skye sighed. "Yes, I know...the power. Where ever will I get the power? I've heard it all before. They never shut up about it."

Axel replied, "Well, lucky for you, I may have found a solution..."

[Liamane]

Vincent smiled as he put his hand on the young girl's shoulder. "I know I'm proud of you, Kohana," he said softly as he looked over to his beloved. The Turk grinned and offered her a nod. "Miyo's very proud of you too. We're both proud of you, Kohana, and your sister and I love you very much. I'm positive that the others are going to love you as well."

Kohana beamed and gave her older sister a hug. "Thank you both!" she exclaimed as she then gave Vincent a hug as well. "I love you both too! I can't wait to go to school! Wait until I tell Kikyo and Jiro and Naomi too! I'm sure they'll be really happy too!!" With that, the little girl dashed off to the house to tell her friends of her decision.

The man let out a laugh as he turned his attention back to his lover. "It seems Kohana's excited to start school then," Vincent said while calming down, and he gently took her hand and brought it to his face. After slowly placing several tender kisses upon her hand, the Turk winked and smirked at Miyo. "And it seems that my charm has gotten the better of your sister. Am I right, my love?"

[Liamane]

Naomi stepped into the flower shop, already prepared for the explanation she was going to give to Ms. Kiro. She was going to be honest.....as honest as possible. She didn't enjoy the fact that she was going to lie to someone she considered to be family, but she didn't know what else she was going to do. She didn't want to tell her that she had been preoccupied in the surrounding events of a magically inclined battle, before losing her memories. She knew she'd never believe it anyway. No, she was going to spat out some lame excuse that Ms. Kiro wouldn't question, merely because of the trust they shared.

Naomi felt sick in the pit of her stomach as she prepared for the words to come out, when she noticed Ms. Kiro turn around with a frown. Naomi knew something was wrong.

"Ms....Kiro? What's the matter?" She asked with concern, approaching her in case she needed comfort.

Ms. Kiro looked directly at Naomi, the frown engraved on her pale face. "There's.....there's something you need to know......."

-----------------------------------------------

"And what solution might that be?" Skye asked, not expecting Axel to make a serious remark.

Before Axel could get any words out, Rian came into the room, interrupting whatever conversation that might have insued.

"Skye, I have the most perfect information for you." Rian said with a rare smirk.

She looked to him and asked. "News of this Valentine man, I presume?"

He replied, "Indeed......."

[Liamane]

"Yes, I can clearly see that it worked perfectly." Miyo replied a little flustered. She placed her gardening tools in a nearby basket with vegetables inside. "Well I planted some new seeds and watered the growing herbs. Because of the strong winds not too long ago I had to add more soil but it wasn't that much damage to the garden."

"It looks really great Miyo and I'm sure that everything will be good when they are fully grown." Vincent said with a smile. "Some time you'll have to teach me a few things about growing fruits and vegetables."

"Don't worry I'll show you. Sometimes it's pretty tough since it's so much to do but it's all worth it at the end." Miyo replied picking up the basket and holding the Turk's hand. "How about we do something today? Since no one came here to get their orders, well besides Naomi and Tidus, we could deliver them at the village market. How does that sound?"

"Sounds like a plan to me." the man replied. "Let me help you gather everything."

_________________________________________

"That was quick." Skye replied with her ears perked. "Go on."

"My dear sister, this Vincent Valentine person is in fact not of this world but lives with a number of people." Rian stated. "I'm not positive of how many actually stayed in the house but there were 3 females, 2 other males, and one child all eating together. I was welcomed into the house by a woman name Miyo and she seemed close to Mr. Valentine almost as if they were lovers and I noticed-"

"Lovers?!?" Skye shouted with a sniff face. After a short moment the woman took in a deep breath and looked at her younger sibling. "I've heard enough. Show me were they live. I want to see this man for myself."

[Liamane]

As Vincent bent down to collect the rest of his beloved's belongings and products, he let out a small laugh. "Let's hope we don't encounter any Fuwa Clan member or any jewelers that sell bewitched necklaces," the Turk said with a grin while placing the remaining items in the basket and gently locked his hand with Miyo's once again. "No matter... I'll be certain to keep you safe, my love." With that, he placed a kiss on his lover's cheek and they began to head into town.

After Kohana told Jiro and Kikyo of her future attendance of schooling, the young girl walked out the front door to find her sister and soon to be brother-in-law. She turned her head about the area and caught a glimpse of the couple walking toward the town. "Vincent!! Miyo!!" she yelled while flailing her arms about and running up to them. "Are you two going to the village? Can I come, Miyo?! Pretty please?"

The man looked over to his love and exchanged a warm smile with her. "Well, it's fine with me, Kohana," Vincent replied as he glanced back to the little girl and offered her his smile. "We'd love your presence. However, I have no say in this and it's your sister's call... Miyo, what do you think?"

The young woman blinked as her sister pouted her lip and shuffled her foot. Miyo let out a sigh and gave the girl a small nod. "Fine, Kohana, you win," she said while bearing a small smile. "But you have to stay close to me and Vincent, and you can't run away from us. Alright?"

[Liamane]

Naomi walked down the narrow path, heading back to Miyo's house, still in a state of awe about the events that had just ensued. Was it true, the things that Ms. Kiro said? Could all of that really be happening? Was the choice that Naomi made the right one?

As she reached the front gate, she saw Miyo, Vincent, and Kohana approaching, appearing to be on their way to town. She smiled when she noticed their notice of her arrival.

Naomi opened the gate slightly, just enough to give herself room to enter and close it behind her, and said, "Hi you guys, heading into town?" Before they could answer, she interrupted, continuing, "Miyo, can I talk to you for a minute?"

Miyo gave a confused smile, stepping off to the side of the path with Naomi, replying, "Sure, what is it?"

Naomi frowned, hesitating about what to say next. She knew what the truth could mean, but she feared of how Miyo would feel once the lie was revealed. She stuck with Ms. Kiro's advice and explained, "Well, my boss, Ms. Kiro, the owner of the flower shop, is on the board of directors at the academy. The headmaster of the school came to visit her at the shop today, telling her that the current gardening instructor is taking their retirement this year and they need a replacement teacher to teach the class. Ms. Kiro said she was to rapped up in her work to do it...so she offered me the job!"

Miyo gave a huge smile and exclaimed, "Oh my goodness, Naomi! That's so wonderful! Did you take the job?"

Naomi gave an odd expression and replied, "Well, I haven't said yes yet, but I'm definitely considering it. The main reason I'm leaning toward yes is so that I'll be able to teach Kohana."

"Kohana?" Miyo asked, "How do you know she would be able to attend?

Naomi, a little flustered, replied "Well, if I were to teach there, then I'd have some pull in admissions. And there are more openings this year than there has ever been before. I didn't mean anything before about the school being difficult to get in to; I'm certain Kohana would get in."

Miyo smiled, saying, "Well, if she were to go, I'm sure she'll be very excited, having a familiar face there to help her."

Naomi added, "Well, I'd feel the same way. Being at a school full of teachers and students I am not to familiar with, I could use the company of someone I already adore." She smiled, looking at Kohana who was kicking around a small rock with her feet. "If I accept, I'll be given all of the details tomorrow and perhaps I could give Kohana an early lesson, so she'll be even better prepared for class."

Miyo looked at the happy Kohana playing too, and said, "I'm sure that would appeal to her. I'll ask her tonight at dinner. Well, we're off to the Village to do who knows what." She laughed, "We'll see all of you later and congratulations again Naomi!"

Naomi smiled, replying, "Thanks and have a good time!"

With that, the small, new soon-to-be-family was off to the village, while Naomi headed back, nervous that Miyo might discover her true intentions...

Jiro scratched his head at the explanation Tidus gave him of Blitzball. "So let me get this straight..." He asked, "It's a game involving a ball...underwater? And players swim to score points in the other teams goal? Doesn't sound so hard...except how do we breathe?"

Tidus chuckled, "Well, you come up for air every now and again. You have to practice holding your breath a lot first. With some decent training, it's possible to hold your breath for up to 5 minutes."

Jiro looked flushed. Just thinking about trying to hold your breath for that long seemed impossible, but Tidus knew what he was talking about. Besides, he and Tidus had become pretty good friends over that past few days and he didn't want to let him down by not at least attempting to play his favorite sport.

He hated to admit it, but Jiro felt a sigh of relief when he saw a figure approaching the house. "Hey look!" He pointed, "There's Naomi! I guess we'll have to wait on that game! Heh..."

[Liamane]

"So Miyo what did Naomi tell ya?" Kohana said with a curious look in her eyes and showing off a grin. "Was it about me?"

"Well maybe but you'll never find out." Miyo said laughing a little. 'If you must know then maybe I'll tell you later."

"Awwww Miyo!!" the girl cried out. "You're no fun."

"Naomi told me a lot of things, Kohana." Miyo said placing a hand on her sibling's shoulder. "It's nothing bad so don't worry so much. Like I said I'll tell you later."

Miyo slipped her hands in to her lover's ass the three walked toward the village circle. From a distance Rian spotted them from the window of the inn and quickly grabbed his sister. "There's no need. That's them over there walking." Rian stated. "They must be going to that village circle some of the guys at the tavern were talking about."

Skye only focused her eyes at the Turk only get a glimpse of his face before Vincent turned his back to them holding Miyo's hand. "Ah, I just missed his face. Nice body though." Skye replied as she continued to stare. "I can see why his aura is very strong and why I must have what he contains inside of him."


"He's not far so you can catch up to him." Axel said. "If you want to hear, I have a nice plan for you."

"If it involves Mr. Valentine then I'm all ears." Skye replied with a devilish grin. "Tell me what you have in mind."

"Well if you want him to yourself, I would advise you to play a damsel in distress." the red-haired man answered walking out the door. "Vincent Valentine will go out of his way to help you and if you act your part then you can have him tag along with you. For now, I must take my leave."

"Ah I see. Rian gather a few men from the tavern and meet me at the village circle." Skye ordered. "Check for any alleys or dead ends there and make sure that only Valentine comes to my rescue when they lead me to them. Stay out of their sight also for they have already seen your face and look familiar to them."

"Yes my dear sister." Rian replied leaving the room. "As you wish."

[Liamane]

Rian stepped out of the room in search of some potential candidates and spotted three men in coming inside the inn. "Now how can I make this work?" Rian said softly to himself. "It has to be somewhat believable so that it's not like a routine."

Starring from a distance, Rian notice the small sack of gold that was around the waist of one of them and thought of an idea. "I hope this works." he thought. "I only have one chance."

________________________

Skye stood by the window of her room watching Vincent walk away until he was gone from her sight before freshing up and leaving out of the inn. Walking in the same direction as the Turk and the others, the young woman was stopped by a few men but declined any of their offers and continued to walk toward the village circle. After a while she finally managed to find the market and was amazed at the many people and many things going on. "So this is the market but where is my brother?" Skye thought getting impatient. Looking around and seeing unfamiliar faces, Skye pressed on until she noticed a tall long-haired male with his back to her from a distance.

Walking up to him, she was instantly pulled away from Rian who seemed to be in a small rush. "Ok I got the guys for you and you should run pass the guy over to the right and move run between those food stands." Rian said quickly pointing and showing Skye the way. "I told these guys that you stole their gold and I was to point you out to them. Pretend that you have their gold and make sure that you have your guy come after you."

"But wait, wasn't Vincent over there?" Skye asked confused. "I was walking up to him."

"No that wasn't him." Rian said looking away, giving Skye a small sack. "I got here as quick as I could and made sure I knew where it was. Get ready."

"Wha-?" Skye asked confused and dazed before Rian shouted, "HERE SHE IS!! THE THIEF!"

"GET HER MEN!" one of the men shouted as they ran toward Skye causing chaos. "GIVE US THE GOLD!"

[Liamane]

As the three men continued to pursue and gang up on Skye, Vincent's ears perked to the sound of yelling in the distance. The Turk raised a brow and turned his head in the direction of the commotion. "Do you hear that?" he asked his lover as he loosened his grip upon her hand. "I'll be right back, girls. I'm going to check out whatever is going on."

With a reluctant nod, Miyo released her hand from Vincent's. "Go ahead," she said with a bit of concern in her voice. "Kohana and I will be waiting right here for you. Be careful. Alright, my love?" The man nodded and dashed off to the source of the turmoil, leaving his family alone in the middle of the village circle.

The shouts became louder and the voices of the men became clearer as Vincent Valentine sprinted about the market. As he made his way through the mass of people, his keen eyes detected three men crowding around a young woman in an alley. The middle figure, who seemed to be the one in charge, approached Skye and lifted her chin so that he could look at her face closely. "Now, now... what would a delicate creature like you be doing with a hefty sack of gold?" the man said as he licked his upper lip and his eyes greedily looked upon the young woman. "And besides, what's a little kitten doing on the streets all by herself?"

The Turk crossed his arms and slowly approached the three figures. "Here's a question for all of you: what are a bunch of bullies like yourselves doing with this young, defenseless woman here?” the man said coldly as his intense red eyes thinned and he offered the men an icy stare. “Leave the girl alone, before I break all of your necks. Got it?”

[Liamane]

"Ha! I'll be the one to break your neck, boy." one of the men stated stepping up to the Turk. "You're a nobody and you don't stand a chance against us."

"Believe me, you're no threat." Vincent replied getting annoyed. "I don't have time for this."

Suddenly with swift movements the Turk punched the first guy in the stomach with force sending him to the ground holding his abdomen. The other male rushed over to Vincent grabbing a knife from his pocket holding it out ready to slice his opponent. Skye being pinned down from the leader, he cover her mouth with his dirty hands as Vincent knocked out the knife out of the other man's hands and dropped kicked him to the ground. "Wait... here ta... take whatever yo... you want." the leader said stuttering between words. He glanced at his sack held by the woman, grabbed it giving it to the Turk. "Here's ma.. ma.. my gold. Take it and g- go."

"I'm not here for your gold." Vincent still giving his cold stared at the man. He instantly grabbed the leader and shoved him to the wall. "Never touch a woman like that again or you'll never be able to touch anything again."

Skye watched in amazement as the Turk knocked the leader out cold and finally saw a clear view of the great Vincent Valentine as he turned around and looked at her. In a small dazed, the woman noticed that rocks came out of the small tote bag the leader grabbed from her then looked back up at the Turk.

"Are you alright?" Vincent asked with a warm caring expression. "Are you hurt anywhere?"

"Well I think I'm alright." Skye replied nervously in a soft tone. Feeling weak in the knees, she placed her head on top head as if she was to faint. "I feel as though I need to get home... I don't feel so good...."

"....I guess I can take you home." Vincent said reluctantly. He hoped that Miyo and Kohana wouldn't mind if he was out helping this woman a bit longer. He saw that the woman's legs were about to give way as he lifted her up and carried her walking back toward the busy area. "Do you live far....?"

"Skye." the woman replied. "My name is Skye."

"Skye." Vincent muttered simply as he spotted Miyo and Kohana from a distance talking to each other. He gave a smile smile before realizing he was carrying another woman. "What's your name?" Skye asked the man holding her. "Aren't you going to tell me yours?"

"It's... it's Vincent." the Turk replied. "Vincent Valentine. I need to tell the woman that I care for that I have to take you home so-"

"SKYE! VINCENT!!" Rian shouted cutting Vincent off, walking up to them. "I see you met my sister, Skye. Skye this is Vincent Valentine. Thank you so much for saving my sister's life. I was trying to get a new place for us to stay since we've been staying at an inn. Please help me take my sister back to get our things." he replied. "I'll lead the way and you follow."

"I'm sure there's space for you two at Miyo's home, Rian." Vincent stated as he glanced one more time at his love and future sister before leaving the markets. "No, we don't want to intrude on you all. After all we're still strangers to you, well at least I am." Skye replied sweetly. "Who is this Miyo you speak of?"

"She's my future wife." He said simply with memories going through his mind.

"Oh I didn't realize." Skye replied a bit broken-hearted. "She's very lucky."

"I feel like the lucky one. She gave me true happiness and love." Vincent said smiling a bit. "All that and more."


________________________________

"Have you seen Vincent anywhere Kohana?" Miyo asked looking around with a worried expression. "It's been a while now since he left."

"Maybe we should walk around." Kohana replied also getting worried a little. "It shouldn't be that hard to find him right? Let's check over this way."

"Alright then. I hope that he's doing alright. It's going to get late soon." Miyo said walking in the direction Vincent when to save Skye. When they made it to the food stands they saw three men in the alley on the ground grunting in pain. "The long dark hair with red eyes saved a woman from those men." the food seller nearby replied. "I watched the whole thing."

"Can you tell us which direction they went?" Miyo asked curiously. "Was the woman with him?"

"I don't know, I had customers at the time they left." the seller replied. "Good luck finding them though."

[Liamane]

As Vincent proceeded carrying Skye to her room at the inn, he bowed his head in thought and pondered about his beloved and soon to be sister. "I hope Miyo and Kohana are alright," he thought while letting out a sigh. "It's getting late, and I've been gone a while.... Hang on, girls. I'll be back soon."

The Turk snapped out of his daze and he looked up at the young man leading him. "Rian, how much farther to the inn?" he asked as he switched his gaze and he looked at Skye. "I left Miyo and Kohana at the village market, and I need to get back to them."

With his back turned to the man, Skye's brother smirked and he put his hands behind his back. "Not much further, Vincent," he said with a smooth tone. "Don't worry, you'll be reunited with your fiance soon enough. All in good time, sir, all in good time."

Approaching the inn, Skye glanced at up at the man holding her tightly. "The rumors were right- he is handsome," she said to herself as a small smirk grew upon her face. "His strength is impressive, too. I can see why he had no trouble defeating that demon."

Vincent's red eyes focused on the building before him and he read a sign that said 'Inn'. He nodded and cleared his throat. "This must be the place, then," the Turk said while blinking. He looked down at the woman in his arms and he offered her a smile. "Miss Skye, are you feeling any better?"

[Liamane]

After melting from Vincent's smile, Skye couldn't help but blush. Rian opened the door to his older sister's room and the Turk placed Skye on the bed. "Only a few guys could make me blush." she thought. "It's hard not to feel like a silly little girl with a crush."

"I..I'm doing ok." she replied softly trying to keep up with her little act. "You really shouldn't have but I'm glad you did Mr. Vincent. Please you need to be rewarded. We don't have much seeing we just got here not to long ago but-"

"You don't have to reward me; I don't need it." Vincent replied cutting the woman off checking for any bruises or cuts on her before getting up. "I have everything I need but thank you for your offer. Rian please look after your sister and Miss Skye, please be more careful about what you do or you'll get yourself killed."

"Thank you Vincent for the advice but I can't allow you to go without anything." Skye said spotting two cups with drinks inside of them and a note at the table. She got up, went over to the table with her back to Vincent and quickly read the note.

"The cup to the left contains a special potion for Vincent. Once he drinks it, you must say the words, 'Stay with me, Mr. Valentine. Stay and love me as I will do the same.' giving him a kiss on the lips after. Then only he shall remain with you forever."

_______________________________

Looking down at the ground, Miyo became more than worried as she searched everywhere at the market with Kohana looking for Vincent. "All this time and he's not back yet." Kohana said getting sad. "We searched for him all afternoon and still no sign of Vincent. Do you think he's in trouble?"

"Well maybe something happened to him while he left but I'm sure that he's able to take care of himself." Miyo replied thinking of answers. She looked up at the sky as the sun was starting to set."I really hate to do this but we can't stay here any longer. When it gets dark, bandits come out and we're defenseless against them."

"But what about Vincent, Miyo? What if he comes back here?"

"If he comes back then hopefully he'll figure out that we went home." Miyo replied trying to be strong for her sister. "If Jiro is able to, he'll be able to track down Vincent but we should leave now Kohana, by the time we get home we should be safe."

[Liamane]

Vincent raised a curious brow as he looked over at Skye reading what seemed to look like a small paper with writing upon it. After clearing his throat and drawing the young woman's attention from the note she was reading, the Turk offered her a small, hesitant smile while he shook his head. "Thank you for your hospitality, but I really must be going," the man explained lowering his eyes in dismay. "I have to get back to Miyo and the rest of my family. I'm sure that they're worried about me.

Widening her eyes a bit, the young woman gripped the note and quickly turned around to face the Turk. Her innocent, but false eyes looked upon his form with lust, and a delicate smile curled upon her face. "Oh, I couldn't just let you go without something, Vincent," she softly protested as she said his name slowly to savor its sound. "That would be very unladylike of me to do. After all, it's the least I can do after you saved my life and brought me back to my room."

Skye took a gentle step toward the man as Rian watched the scene develop while he leaned against the wall. Just as a smile crossed his sister's face, the young man shared in his sister's delight and a parallel grin pursued upon his own face. The young woman approached the man once more and the Turk grew tentative of the woman's persistent actions. Again, an uncomfortable Vincent cleared his throat and lowered his eyes to avoid a contact gaze with Skye.

"I'm sorry, Miss Skye," he whispered as he turned around to face the door. While the young woman frowned, the Turk turned his head over his shoulder and let out a sigh. "Forgive me, but I need to return the ones I love. Perhaps another time." Vincent offered Rian a nod, and the young man replied with a reluctant, diminutive smile. "Both of you take care, and perhaps I'll see you soon."

With that, the Turk walked himself out the door and out of hotel. Skye scrambled over to the bedroom window and intently watched her new objective make his way through Riyona's streets in the midst of the night. A small laugh escaped her lips as a smirk broadened upon her attractive face. "Don't worry, Mr. Valentine," the young woman whispered while her brother's acute ears opened. "We'll meet again sooner than you think."

[Liamane]

Naomi still wasn't sure what Ms. Kiro meant by her words. Was she REALLY the right person to be training mages? Was she the right person to prepare the next line against this presumed onslaught? Would the townsfolk discover the hidden purpose that the academy served? This questions plagued Naomi as she sat, twiddling her thumbs on the couch, along with those waiting for the 3 missing party members to return. The main thought that ran across her mind was the fact that she would have to lie to Miyo. She would have to lie to everyone she cared about. She couldn't see how Tidus and Vincent were so open about their powers. Of course, they were not raised in Riyona, so certain beliefs weren't forced upon them as they had been to so many people. Still, she was excited about what this new event would entail.
-----------------------------
Axel sighed as he walked back into the siblings' hotel room. He softly said, "Skye, you do realize you're wasting this guy's potential with what you're doing, don't you?"

Skye smirked, turning to Rian, then to Axel, replying, "Surely there is enough time for me to have my fun....

[Liamane]

"Hello everyone! Sorry we're late!" Kohana shouted walking into the house. "Did Vincent come back before us?"

"He's not with you?" Kikyo asked with a curious look. "We didn't see him since he left with you two and Naomi came here not to long ago."

"I saw all three of you on my way in, but not since." Naomi stated. "Where did he go to?"

"I'm not sure and I'm really worried that he didn't come back before it got dark." Miyo said looking everyone sighing a little. "I know that he'll be alright but to not know where he is..."

[Liamane]

As the night pressed on, the Turk continued to make his way back to the house. The man let out a weary sigh while he thought of his family awaiting his return. "They're most likely worried right about now," Vincent thought as he switched his gaze to the night sky above that was decorated with countless stars and a luminous moon. "What's worse is that they have every reason to be. I can't believe I left Miyo and Kohana all by themselves in the market earlier today. Great job, Valentine. You've proved to the woman you love that you're an ass."

Finally, after a half an hour of walking, he had finally made it to the door of his beloved's home and he exhaled yet another sigh. "Well," he whispered in a soft voice as he extended his arm and touched the knob, "here goes nothing." Slowly opening the door, Vincent peered inside of the house and looked upon everyone gathered in the living room. Miyo stared at him with wide eyes as the rest of the group gazed at him with a bit of disbelief. The man then walked inside and closed the door behind him.

The Turk murmured in a low voice, hanging his head and closing his eyes, "Miyo, Kohana... I'm so sorry that I abandoned you like that in the middle of the market. I... I just hope you can forgive me for my stupidity. I swear on my life, I'll never do that again."

[Liamane]

Rushing up to Vincent, Miyo gave him a loving hug and a kiss on the cheek. "We were really worried but there's no need to apologize." Miyo replied as Vincent responded to her embrace. Kohana then rushed up to the couple and gave them a hug as well. "As long as you're back safe, that's all that matters. I'm sure that it was important so you had to leave."

"I guess.." the Turk murmured.

"You smell like a woman's perfume." Kohana said stepping back a little. "Were you with one?"

Vincent looked at Miyo who was still in his arms as his face tensed up a little. Miyo's thoughts filled with mixed emotions but expressed a blank face as she looked down at Kohana then back at the Turk. Vincent felt uneasy and bent down to the girl's level. "I was with one. Rian's sister was in trouble and I saved her from these bad men." he explained with a quick glance at Miyo. "At the time I didn't know who she was but I took her back home with Rian, he explained a few things about themselves."

"Couldn't Rian have took her home?" Kohana asked straightforwardly. "He looked strong like you and-"

"...and I think Vincent was being a nice person in helping them out, right?" Miyo said lowing her head a little. She took in a deep breath and raised her head a little in thought. Vincent stood up and gave Miyo a hug and whispered. "I thought of only you and Kohana when I left. I only wanted to help."

"It's ok Vincent. I'm glad that you were able to save someone who need help." Miyo whispered back with a grin. "Don't worry ok?"

"Well isn't that just lovely." Jiro shouted in a bored uninterested tone. He looked off to the side as he motioned Miyo to the kitchen. "Everyone is reunited but there's no dinner. How about ya go and make some Miyo and while you're at it go get us some entertainment."

Everyone stared at Jiro with annoyed expressions as he instantly got nervous and sweat drops came about on his forehead. His eyes grew and he waved his hand in front of him as he started to stutter a little. "Uh... I mean I...I'll go make us dinner. I wa..was only kidding about what I said."

He got up from his seat and quickly rushed to the kitchen with Kikyo following behind. "Sorry for his foolish words. I'll have to talk to him about that. " she said shaking her head. "Let me go help him before he breaks something."

A little flustered, Miyo smiled a little shook her head a little. "Jiro you are quite a person." she said with a snicker. The three took a seat in the living area with Naomi and Tidus talking to them for a while before Jiro and Kikyo stepped out of the kichen. "Dinner is served." Jiro said bring bowls to the table. He scratched his head as he placed utensils on the table as well. "Sorry it isn't much but I can't cook like Miyo and it seems as though it was the easiest thing to make."

"Ramen with beef?" Kohana said looking into the bowl. "All you can cook is noodles?"

Jiro blushed in embarrassment as Kikyo took a sigh. "Yes, unfortunately that's all he can cook without burning anything." the girl anwsered to Kohana's questions. "I cooked the beef because he was burning it."

"Well if you wasn't in my way I wouldn't have burned it!" Jiro cried as he folded his arms and took a seat. Everyone else took a seat too and watched the couple go back and forth. "Not bad." Naomi said taking another bite of food. "I've tasted better but at least it's got favor."

"HA! Someone likes it!" Jiro said with a excited glow in his eyes. He motioned for everyone to tasted it and everyone began eating. "So Vincent, you said you saved Rian's sister?" Tidus asked curiously. "How did she get herself in danger?"

"I think she had something that wasn't hers." the Turk replied. "Some men were after her and I quickly took action. That's why I left you Miyo and Kohana."

"What did she take?" Kohana asked.

"I was a small pouch or bag." Vincent answered. "I assume it was something of value. Rian said that he was a traveler and it makes me wonder what his motives are in this village."

[Liamane]

As the Turk took another sampling of Jiro's cooking, he lowered his eyes and thought of the young woman he had encountered just an hour ago. The man began to call to mind the look that Skye had in her eyes while she looked upon him. "Strange... she seemed almost interested in me," Vincent thought to himself as he ceased eating, and an image of Rian's sister's lustful eyes gazing upon him entered his mind. As he rubbed his temples, the Turk also remembered that Skye had been reading a particular piece of parchment. "The note... What the hell did it say?"

Kohana, who was sitting across from Vincent, slurped some of her ramen and peered into her empty bowl. The girl let out a sigh as she switched her gaze to the red eyed man. She curiously raised a brow while she intently watched him in his trance like state. "Vincent, are you alright?" Miyo's sister questioned while becoming a bit concerned. "Helloooo? Vincent?"

Miyo turned her head to her love sitting beside her. Like her younger sister, she also grew worried while she gazed at the Turk in deep thought. "What could be bothering him?" the young woman thought as she placed a hand on her beloved's shoulder. "Did... something happen between him and Rian's sister?"

After the young woman placed a warm hand upon his shoulder, Vincent Valentine snapped out of his daze and looked at his love beside him. The man lowered his eyes once again, and he released a soft sigh. "I'm sorry," the Turk said gently as he sported a small frown. "My mind was just wandering away, that's all. I apologize if I worried you, Miyo."

[Liamane]

"Who's doing is this?" Skye asked rather upset from Vincent leaving the inn. "They randomly sent me a note and some potion without my permission? If I was told about this before I could have given him the drink and he'll be mine."

"Well it may work to your advantage dear sister." Rian replied in a laid back tone. "I know where he stays at so there's no problem of finding him."

"Then when you do get him to be yours, he'll be able to help out with your ultimate goal." Rian said reminding Skye of her plans. A sly grin came upon his face as he glanced at Skye. "He might be one of the most powerful beings in this world."

"Of course he's in my plans. I'll have him by my side as we take over this world." the woman said holding up the potion in the cup. She gave a loud sheepish laugh that filled the room before she gained her composer. "Once he drinks this and I say my words to him, I'll make him do whatever I want. He'll give me his love and his power so I'll have everything I could want."

______________________________________________

"It's no problem." Miyo said feeling a bit uneasy from the Turk's expression. "It's been a long day so maybe you need a little rest?"

"It's ok my love I don't need much rest." Vincent said looking at Miyo. "I'm sure that you need more rest than me. You and Kohana have been looking for me all day and I'm sure that you two are tired."

"Aww... I don't need rest Vincent!" Kohana replied yawning a little. Her eyes widened as she instantly covered her mouth and blushed a little. "I was faking that one. I'm not really sleepy."

"Time for bed Kohana." Miyo said standing up. She grabbed her sibling's hand and led the way to the room. "We're going to have a busy day in the garden tomorrow. You'll need your sleep."

"Noo!! I wanna stay with you all!!" Kohana said whining a little, trying to let go of her older sibling's grasp. "Can I at least say good night to everyone?"

"Sure." Miyo replied as she let go of Kohana's hand. She watched the little girl run back to everyone staying her farewells. The girl went up to Vincent last, giving him a hug before dashing to her bedroom where Miyo was waiting for her. "Will things change when I start school?" Kohana asked softly as she got into bed. "I'm happy that we met so many people these couple of weeks and I don't everything to change."

"Everything will be alright Kohana. That reminds me, I was told to tell you that you're being considered for the Academy. It'll be even better than just schooling alone. And remember, Vincent and everyone else will never leave us." Miyo said with a smile. "We'll make sure that we look out for one another, like a family. As long as we have love for each other in our hearts nothing will tear us apart."