|
|
Post by Shirogane Setsuna on Jun 4, 2011 22:06:55 GMT -4
Setsuna sat very still with her eyes closed. The sun was overhead. The clouds periodically covered it creating shadows.
She sat in a beautiful inner city garden, legs crossed, absorbing the smell of the human realm. She hadn't visited in such a long time. A few things had changed.
It was very busy this time of day, people hurrying back to work from lunch breaks; children rushing back into the schools. It was wonderful to have beings who had emotions and were not afraid to used them around.
Setsuna opened her eyes, taking a look at her timekeeper. It was a quarter past noon. The person she was supposed to be meeting was late.
Her eyes returned to the closed position and she waited.
|
|
|
|
Post by Miyazawa Chiyo on Jun 4, 2011 22:22:31 GMT -4
Chiyo rushed to the garden, trying to calm her nerves down. She couldn't believe it. She was going to see Setsuna after all this time. Chiyo looked at her watch cursing lightly under their breath.
Hurry up! We don't want to be too late. Hikari said.
I know that! I had to make sure the girls were settled before I left. Chiyo said tapping her foot impatiently at the stop light.
I can't believe it. Setsuna, after all this time. It'll be good to see her. Hikari said.
Of course, she's the one person you want to see. Chiyo said walking quickly across the street.
She helped me get you back. Of course, I want to see her. She didn't betray you or kill you or-
I know, Hikari, I know. You don't have to tell me. Can't you let the dream go?
I'll let the dream go when you stop having them.
Chiyo sighed, but she didn't let Hikari upset her. She was going to see Setsuna again. Chiyo couldn't describe the happiness going through her. She stopped at the garden, noticing the figure sitting inside. A few tears pricked Chiyo's eyes as she walked over.
Chiyo smiled wiping her tears away with the back of her hand. "Setsuna? Hi, can you recognize me?"
|
|
|
|
Post by Shirogane Setsuna on Jun 4, 2011 22:33:55 GMT -4
Setsuna opened her eyes at the address. Before her stood a beautiful woman. Surely this must be Chiyo.
Her voice was different, so was her frame, but her spirit, that was the same.
"My dearest Chiyo," Setsuna stood and embraced her best friend of over thousands of years. "It is you. I can tell. Your soul, it is the same. Your body is very different, to be sure. But your soul," Setsuna's eyes flashed, "It is yours." Setsuna was struck speechless. She was astonished.
Setsuna got to one knee and bowed to her superior. "It is so very good to have you back Miyazawa-dono!"
|
|
|
|
Post by Miyazawa Chiyo on Jun 4, 2011 23:07:04 GMT -4
Chiyo was so happy to see her old friend she didn't know what to do. Even Hikari was speechless when Setsuna hugged her, but still pleased. When Setsuna knelt on one knee it surprised Chiyo. She waved her hands dismissively, bending down to join Setsuna.
"Please, call me Chiyo. I'm not Miyazawa-dono anymore." Chiyo placed a hand on Setsuna's shoulder. "There's no need to bow anymore. I'm not a ruler. I'm just a simple worker and mother." She hugged Setsuna tightly before pulling back. "Tell me, how are you?"
Hikari cheered in happiness at seeing Setsuna again.
|
|
|
|
Post by Shirogane Setsuna on Jun 5, 2011 16:32:04 GMT -4
Setsuna settled onto the grass. "I am doing fine, Chiyo. Some interesting things have gone on since you went into hiding with your twins. Though the "great age" of the Upright Celestials is over, I fear. I believe we have fallen into a state of decay, especially with many of the previous kings either dead or missing. Many of our layers are without leaders. I fear a great shadow is upon us..."
Setsuna wanted to lighten the mood a bit, "How are the twins? I know they must be a lot older by now.
"It is so great to have you back...
"But are you not returning to Heaven? You are still my supreme ruler; I know nothing else..." Setsuna was a bit puzzled by Chiyo's refusal to accept the proper honors.
|
|
|
|
Post by Miyazawa Chiyo on Jun 5, 2011 17:48:40 GMT -4
Chiyo felt the familiar stirrings of sadness at the mention of the current state of Heaven. She thought that her worry over the realm would disappear, but it didn't disappear completely. Hikari did not approve of it.
No! Don't let yourself worry about that. You're not part of that world anymore. Whatever problems they have is their own. It's not your concern anymore! Hikari exclaimed, glaring at Chiyo.
I know, but I don't like knowing the state of the world Setsuna lives in now. You know how I hate to hear any bad news. Chiyo said.
Hikari softened at the sadness in Chiyo's eyes. She sighed softly. I know, but you have to let that go. Whatever the problem is, Setsuna can take care of it. Don't worry about it.
Fine, but I'll keep them in my thoughts. I hope it works out. Chiyo said. She turned to Setsuna, trying to keep the sadness out of her eyes.
"I'm happy to know you're doing fine. I'm sorry to hear about what has happened. I can only wish it becomes better soon." Chiyo settled in the grass, her expression changing at the mention of her girls.
"Yami and Mina are fine. They are quite older now. They go to school and help me out if I need it. Yamiko is so sweet and gentle, but a bit shy. She has more of my personality, I'm afraid." Chiyo laughed softly at the thought. "However, Yamiko has many people that looks out for her, so I'm grateful for that. Minako is sweet, but not afraid to tell people what's on her mind. She has made quite a reputation for herself, by protecting her sister and friends. I believe she has taken on more of Hikari's personality. Why sometimes she reminds me of..." Chiyo trailed off at the thought of the twins' father.
Hikari hissed in anger at the mention. Mina is nothing like her jerk of a father!
Hikari! Not now!
No good son of a...
Chiyo cut off the conversation with Hikari turning to Setsuna. "I apologize for that. Hikari tends to get upset easier nowadays. As to answer your question, no I'm not returning to Heaven. I feel it's not the right place for me anymore. I'm grateful to you and Gin for all the help you've given me, but I cannot return. I enjoy my simple life here."
Chiyo paused to move a strand of hair away from her face. "I never saw myself as ruler over you Setsuna. I only saw you as my friend. I continue to see you as that, even now." She smiled causing Hikari to settle down from her previous outburst.
|
|
|
|
Post by Shirogane Setsuna on Jun 5, 2011 20:59:10 GMT -4
Setsuna's eyes looked off into the distance as Chiyo mentioned that she hoped Heaven would become better. It saddened her so much to see that Chiyo had removed herself from her life in Heaven. Maybe Setsuna was just being selfish, but they did need Chiyo, but she knew that could never happen.
"Sounds like your girls are doing wonderfully! I am sure Kirara would like to see them again. We should arrange for them to meet. Though it would have to be at a very secure location, away from where people could follow me." At that Setsuna casted a glance over her shoulder noticing someone who had been lingering for far too long.
She turned back to Chiyo. "So you are really happy here? Amongst the humans? It is so strange for me to wrap my head around. But, I must admit, I understand your desire to have a normal life..." Setsuna paused.
"Heaven was anything but normal, neither is Hell. The Celestial Realm is beautiful, yes. But the solitude is missing...living life for one's self is not always possible..." Setsuna heaved a sigh in a rather unusual display of emotion.
"I am honored that you would still call me a friend..."
|
|
|
|
Post by Miyazawa Chiyo on Jun 5, 2011 22:20:36 GMT -4
Chiyo brightened at the mention of Kirara. "I have missed Kirara. How is she? We should arrange a meeting. I know the girls would love her. Don't be surprised if Mina is a bit defensive. She does that with new people. She'll warm up once she remembers Kirara." She noticed Setsuna turn around to someone behind her. Chiyo gripped her skirt lightly as Hikari tensed making sure there was a makeshift weapon around.
Chiyo calmed down when Setsuna turned back to her. She nodded. "Yes I am. It takes some getting used to and there are many things I have to get used to, but I do enjoy it. I don't enjoy bills or getting sick, but I do enjoy walking around freely. I do miss my tolerance to alcohol though." Chiyo laughed. "But other than that I'm fine. During my time here I've learned that it is quite an experience."
Chiyo looked over curiously at Setsuna's display. Maybe there is a problem. It's not like Setsuna to lose control of her emotions like that.
It could be because of you, but don't let that shake you. You're here now with the girls and that what matters. Hikari said.
I suppose so. Chiyo said uncertainly.
Chiyo looked down at her hands. "There are times where...I do think about Heaven and occasionally Hell. I know it's hard to live for one's self, but for once I wanted to be selfish. I still hold affection for my realm, but it's not for me anymore. When I made the move I had the girls well being in mind. I don't know if it was right decision overall, but it was right for me." She looked up with a smile, placing her hand over Setsuna's. "Of course, Setsuna. You'll always be my friend."
|
|
|
|
Post by Shirogane Setsuna on Jun 5, 2011 22:50:25 GMT -4
Setsuna had so many questions. Where to begin?
Her head swam with the possibility of what asking the questions would mean...for her, for her daughter, for her brother, for her realm and for herself. She struggled to formulate the words.
Setsuna heaved a few sighs. This was pure madness!
Setsuna you have to get yourself together. Show some restraint. Show that Elohim courage and resilience.
But it was difficult, especially since she knew what the world could hold. Could she really take the next step?
After a few pregnant pauses, she said, "...Chiyo...I...am. I am...just...nevermind...
"Enough about myself," Setsuna begin, although she had hardly said anything, "How has your time been here?"
|
|
|
|
Post by Miyazawa Chiyo on Jun 6, 2011 0:13:48 GMT -4
Chiyo looked at Setsuna in concern. "Setsuna? If I have upset you, please tell me. I know my selfishness is uncommon, but I still care for you. Are you ok?"
She continued to look at Setsuna in concern. It sparked the same response in Hikari. The look in Chiyo's eyes didn't disappear as she started talking. "My time here has it share of ups and downs. I have less control over my emotions, but nothing I can't handle. I have to remember to pay the bills on time, manage money, and look out for my family's safety, but it's not so bad. I love working in the bookstore. I'm surrounded by books and I can help others find the one book they're looking for."
Chiyo started to mess with a strand of her hair. "Sure, I get into fights with my co-workers sometimes. I've had fights with the girls teachers as well. Things break and I have to replace them. I make sure the girls do their homework and advise them on not to trust everyone. Well, I advise Yamiko that. I don't have to worry too much about Minako. My day changes, but it's something I've looked forward too."
Chiyo pushed the strand behind her ear, looking up at Setsuna. "I have made some friends here, but I don't have a romantic companion. It's hard to find someone Hikari likes as well as me." She laughed softly, still uneasy about Setsuna's earlier actions. That part of Chiyo would never go away.
|
|
|
|
Post by Shirogane Setsuna on Jun 6, 2011 11:12:01 GMT -4
"No, Miyazawa-dono, I mean Chiyo. No you have not upset me. I recognize your choice and accept it. It is just that...well, I might as well say it." Setsuna glanced around noticing no one within their direct range.
"I fear that I may no longer be content with my position in Heaven. I am not sure if following the orders that I have been given is enough. I know by admitting this, I have a problem. I am not sure what to do. I do have much to consider, especially with regards to Kirara and Yamashiro. And with close friends of my cabinet leaving...perhaps, I feel a sense of loss.
"There is much of the world I still need to discover and I am never get the chance in Heaven.
"I have become wise in spite of myself and can no longer ignore certain fallacies and loopholes I have observed. I have questions about much.
"Tell me, Chiyo, I understand what brought you to the decision to leave--for your girls--but do you miss it? Heaven? Is your life better because you have left?"
|
|
|
|
Post by Miyazawa Chiyo on Jun 6, 2011 16:42:19 GMT -4
Chiyo's eyes widened in surprise at Setsuna's admission. When Chiyo ruled in Heaven, she visited Setsuna many times when she was confused. Setsuna held the answers to many of her questions. Chiyo didn't know Setsuna had so many questions. However, it didn't seem too unusual. Questions arrived when change happened, Chiyo wondered how long the questions stayed in Setsuna's mind.
Setsuna's question interrupted Chiyo's thoughts. "Well, there are time where I miss it. I do miss my friends, family, servants, and the others who helped me daily. I miss the beauty in our realms, the ease to get entertainment, and to get kimonos. I do miss my kimonos, but there are things I do miss. However, I don't miss the pressure of the realm."
Chiyo toyed with a bracelet on her wrist. "In the beginning, I had more confidence in my abilities. I was not scared to make too many mistakes because I felt it was in the best interest for my realm. However, when I started questioning my decisions that's when my confidence started to wane. When that happened it was hard to focus on anything."
Chiyo left her bracelet alone, looking up at Setsuna. "I feel that my life is better now. It may not sound as glamorous as being in Heaven, but when I make a mistake it's based on my actions. It's not influenced by others, well, besides Hikari."
Chiyo smiled. "You must think I'm a coward for my decisions. I'm glad you have expressed the need to ask questions. One of my mistakes is I don't ask enough."
|
|
|
|
Post by Shirogane Setsuna on Jun 8, 2011 17:39:44 GMT -4
[Sorry for the late reply!]
"No, Chiyo," Setsuna said, "I would never think you a coward for your decisions. You decided what you believed was best for you and your girls. If you believe it was the correct decision, then, indeed it was. Do not think for a minute, that I or anyone else could make light of the decision you made.
"And since you are doing so well, it must have been the correct decision for you. I have served under you many moons; I never doubted you then. Why would I doubt you now?
"I am not sure whether I should ask my questions. Discover the answers.
What if the truth of what I am looking for is more damaging than the lie I have been told?
"I..." Setsuna faltered, "I just want peace and freedom and perhaps happiness. I want to know where my parents are, if they are indeed still alive, or what happened to them. I want to know where the missing Celestial Kings are and how to bring them back.
"Should I leave Heaven, or do I need a vacation? I have never had the problem of not seeing clearly before, so why now?
"Chiyo, what is happening to me?"
|
|
|
|
Post by Miyazawa Chiyo on Jun 21, 2011 18:22:59 GMT -4
Chiyo smiled in relief. She feared that Setsuna wouldn't like her decision about leaving Heaven for the human realm. She didn't make selfish decisions often. When she did the decision haunted her, until Hikari reassured Chiyo that it was the right one. She felt better, knowing Setsuna continued to be on her side.
[Sorry for the really late reply ><]
Chiyo reached for Setsuna's hand, squeezing it gently. "Setsuna, I don't think there's anything wrong with you. I believe this is your reaction to the changes happening in Heaven and around you. You and your realm has remained a constant in Heaven for many moons while everything around you changed. I think your questions is the result of the changes taking place in the realm."
Chiyo rested her hand loosely in Setsuna's own. "I don't think there's nothing wrong with those questions. I want peace back in Heaven as well. If that happened I wouldn't hesitate to take the girls there. You should know about your parents and the location of the other kings. There's nothing wrong with exploring these things."
|
|
|
|
Post by Shirogane Setsuna on Jun 27, 2011 10:56:39 GMT -4
[Sorry for the late reply; I had exams so I definitely spent all my time in preparation for those!]
Setsuna glanced down at their interlocking hands.
"...but the Elders. Long ago I was told to stop looking for my parents. For my insolence, my powers were bound for a time. I do not believe I am to look for them. And yet, I know I must answer my questions...
"...perhaps it is time for me to step down...train a temporary heir until Kirara is old enough."
Setsuna shook her head. What ever decision she made would impact her entire realm.
|
|
|
|
Post by Miyazawa Chiyo on Jun 30, 2011 16:18:25 GMT -4
[No worries ^^]
"Being denied something for so long stirs questions on why you can't have it. I believe that's the reason for all your questions, but as I said before it's not a bad thing. "
Chiyo looked up at Setsuna in concern. "Do you think it's the right decision? If you do I'm sure no one in your realm would fault you for it."
Chiyo wished she could provide a better answer.
|
|
|
|
Post by Shirogane Setsuna on Jul 6, 2011 0:52:52 GMT -4
"I am not sure what the correct answer is. Perhaps I should speak with one of two of the elders first, in all likelihood Elder Satori and Elder Yamashiro. Though, at some point, I will have to speak to all of them.
"I just do not want anything I do to cause any further damage to the Celestial Realm. It is broken."
Setsuna paused deciding on how to phrase her next question, "Do you still think about him, Tomo that is? Love and all of that?"
[apologies for the tardiness. also i'm struggling a bit to keep Setsuna in character, let me know if she get's too out of character]
|
|
|
|
Post by Miyazawa Chiyo on Jul 27, 2011 2:16:05 GMT -4
[I'm very sorry about the late reply. I got wrapped up in other stories]
"I'm sure whatever decision you make, will benefit your realm and the areas surrounding it." Chiyo said. Her heart clenched at the thought of the Celestial Realm broken, but it wasn't her problem anymore. She settled down until she heard Setsuna's other question.
Hikari growled. Not that name again! Why can't you guys stop talking about that thing!
Chiyo swayed, holding her head with a soft groan. "I'm sorry, Hikari still flies into a rage whenever his name is mentioned."
Calm down so I can talk to Setsuna!
But...
Hikari, please, let me talk to Setsuna!
Fine, but I'm still angry about it. Hikari grumbled.
Chiyo turned back to Setsuna with a sheepish smile. "I had to calm Hikari down. Do I think of him some time? Yes, I do. I recently had a dream about him. I don't remember it, but Hikari didn't hesitate to describe the dream in detail for me."
Chiyo flushed lightly placing her hands in her lap. "There are times where I get dreams of us being happy. They could be flashes of memory. I don't know what they are really, but it doesn't bother me. There are times I'm angry over what happened, but that doesn't last long. I-I can't really get him out of my head some times. I have looked for love, but it's been hard. Hikari doesn't trust many people so whenever I try she goes off like crazy."
Chiyo sighed. "She's saved me many times, but it still annoys me. Then I'm afraid of taking a stranger around my girls. Yamiko would try to accept him, but Minako wouldn't like him very much. I'm trying to find someone who will love me, my girls, and Hikari as well."
|
|
