Inside My Closet

Why do women cry?

2009-05-22T13:41:01Z

Why Women Cry?

A little boy asked his mother, "Why are you crying?" "Because I'm a woman," she told him.

"I don't understand," he said. His Mom just hugged him and said, "And you never will."

Later the little boy asked his father, "Why does mother seem to cry for no reason?"

"All women cry for no reason," was all his dad could say.

The little boy grew up and became a man, still wondering why women cry..

Finally he put in a call to God. When God got on the phone, he asked, "God, why do women cry so easily?"

God said

"When I made the woman she had to be special.

I made her shoulders strong enough to carry the weight of the world,

yet gentle enough to give comfort.

I gave her an inner strength to endure childbirth and the rejection that many times comes from her children.

I gave her a hardness that allows her to keep going when everyone else gives up, and take care of her family through sickness and fatigue without complaining.

I gave her the sensitivity to love her children under any and all circumstances, even when her child has hurt her very badly.

I gave her strength to carry her husband through his faults and fashioned her from his rib to protect his heart.

I gave her wisdom to know that a good husband never hurts his wife, but sometimes tests her strengths and her resolve to stand beside him unfalteringly.

And finally, I gave her a tear to shed. This is hers exclusively to use whenever it is needed."

"You see my son," said God, "the beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure that she carries, or the way she combs her hair.

The beauty of a woman must be seen in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart - the place where love resides."

HOW TO STAY YOUNG

2009-03-23T08:23:06Z

HOW TO STAY YOUNG

We all need to read this one over and over until it becomes part of who we are!

HOW TO STAY YOUNG

1. Try everything twice. On Madams tombstone (of Whelan's and Madam) she said she wanted this epitaph: Tried everything twice...loved it both times!

2. Keep only cheerful friends.
The grouches pull you down. (keep this in mind if you are one of those grouches;)

3. Keep learning: Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening, whatever. Never let the brain get idle. "An idle mind is the devil's workshop." And the devil's name is Alzheimer's!

4. Enjoy the simple things.

5. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath. And if you have a friend who makes you laugh, spend lots and lots of time with HIM/HER.

6. The tears happen: Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person who is with us our entire life, is ourselves. LIVE while you are alive.

7. Surround yourself with what you love: Whether it's family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever. Your home is your refuge.

8. Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.

9 Don't take guilt trips. Take a trip to the mall, even to the next county, to a foreign country, but NOT to where the guilt is.

10. Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity.

11. Forgive now those who made you cry. You might not get a second time.

And if you don't send this to at least 4 people - who cares? But do share this with someone .

Lost time can never be found.

'TIS THE SEASON TO BE JOLLY!

2008-12-06T00:26:30Z

CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS THE FILIPINO WAY…. HEY! DID YOU KNOW IN THE PHILIPPINES WE CELEBRATE THE LONGEST CHRISTMAS SEASON EVER AND SO IF YOU WANT TO HAVE EXTENDED HOLIDAYS COME AND CELEBRATE IT WITH US!

FILIPINO CHRISTMAS

Filipinos celebrate the longest Christmas season in the world. As soon as it is “Ber” ( as in SeptemBER”), festive Christmas carols begin to play on the radio, and Christmas decorations begin to appear. Christmas trees begin to appear a bit later, around the second or third week of November ( just before the US Thanksgiving holidays )

The Christmas song play until Three Kings Day ( first Sunday of January) and the decorations stay even longer, sometimes up to February.

So how do Filipinos really celebrate Christmas?

September

Play Filipino Christmas songs
Decorate homes and offices with Christmas lights, lanterns.

November

Prepare for Christmas parties.
Begin spending 13th month pay by going Christmas shopping

December

Go “karoling” or serenade neighbors, friends and benefactors with Christmas carols to spread holiday cheers.
Reward carolers with cash and/or snacks.

December 16

Attend "Simbang gabi”, which is a daily Mass for nine days, held at dawn, beginning December 16.
When available, eat puto bumbong (sticky rice steamed inside a "bumbong," or small bamboo tube), "bibingka" (rice cake with salted eggs and fresh coconut meat) and "suman" (steamed rice wrapped in banana leaves) outside the church. Wash them down by drinking steaming “salabat” (ginger brew), tsokolate ( native chocolate drink) or coffee.
Celebrate with numerous Christmas parties and start your gift-giving.

December 24

In the provinces, watch the "Panunuluyan" in the town plaza on Christmas Eve. This is a re-enactment of Joseph and Mary’s journey to Bethlehem to portrays the difficulty they encountered along the way and the joyous birth of Jesus Christ.
Attend midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. Nowadays, several masses are held on Christmas Eve to accommodate everyone, but the most attended is the last mass before midnight.
Gather with friends and relatives for "Noche Buena" at midnight, and feast on “jamon” ( ham ), “quezo de bola” ( quedam cheese ball ), bibingka ( rice cake ) and sopas ( soup, normally with macaroni noodles ) and pandesal (soft bread) or “tasty” ( sliced bread ) This festive meal is followed by the exchange of gifts.

December 25

Arrange to visit family and friends on Christmas Day. Eat “Noche Buena” leftovers. Exchange more gifts.

December 28

Tease your friends by trying to borrow money and playing pranks on December 28, the “Ninos Inocentes” or Feast of the Innocent’s Day.

December 31

Buy round fruits and dress in clothes with lots of circles (circles to represent money) and carry some cash on New Year’s Eve to bring riches in the coming year.
Just before midnight, make lots of noise to drive away the bad luck and the Old Year, and light “lusis” (sparklers), “kwitis” (fireworks) and “rebentador” (firecrackers, mini-bombs) to welcome good luck and the New Year.

January 1

Gather again with friends and relatives for "Noche Buena" after midnight to feast on a “lechon” ( roast pig ), “lechon manok” (roast chicken) and other delicacies. This sumptious first meal will hopefully bring more good meals throughout the New Year.
Drink and be merry the rest of the night.

Feast of the Three Kings

Attend mass. The holiday season officially draws to a close on the Feast of the Three Kings on the first Sunday of January.
Take down those Christmas decorations and start counting: 350 or so days till the next Christmas

ADVANCE MERRY CHRISTMAS FOR ALL!!!!!

The Legend of Maria Makiling

2008-12-05T23:48:16Z

PHILIPPINE LEGENDS

THE LEGEND OF MOUNT MAKILING (MARIA MAKILING)

Maria Makiling

The many legends of Maria Makiling tell of a young woman who lived on the

beautiful mountain that separates the provinces of Laguna and Tayabas. Her dwelling

place was never definitely known, because those who had the good luck to deal with her

would wander about for a long time lost in the woods, unable to return; neither did they

remember the way, nor were they agreed as to the place and its description.

While some say her home was a beautiful palace, bright as a golden reliquary,

Surrounded by gardens and fine parks, others assert that they saw only wretched hut
with a patched roof and bamboo sides. Such a contradiction may give rise to the belief that

both parties were romancing, it is true; but it may also be due to the fact that Maria

Makiling, like many persons in comfortable circumstances, might have had two dwelling

places.

According to eyewitness, she was a young woman, tall and graceful with big

black eyes and long and abundant hair. Her color was a clear pure brown, the

kayumangging kaligatan, as the Tagalog say. Her hands and feet were small and delicate

and the expression of her countenance always grave and serious.

She was a fantastic creature, half nymph, halves sylph, born under the

moonbeams of Filipinas, in the mystery of its ancient woods, to the murmur of the waves

on the neighboring shore. According to general belief, and contrary to the reputation

imputed to the nymphs and goddesses, Mariang Makiling always remained pure, simple,

and mysterious as the genius of the mountain. An old maid servant we had, an Amazon

who defended her house against the outlaws and once killed once of them with a lance

thrust, assured me that she had in her childhood seen her passing in the distance over the

reed grass so lightly and airily that she did not even make the flexible blades bend.

They said that on the night of Good Friday, when the hunters build bonfires to

attract the deer by the scent of the ashes of which these animals are so fond, they have

discerned her motionless on the brink of the most fearful abysses, letting her long hair

float in the wind, all flooded with the moonlight. Then she would salute them

ceremoniously, pass on, and disappear amid the shadows of the neighboring trees.

Generally every one love and respected her and no one ever dared to question her,

to follow, or to watch her. She has also been seen seated for long periods upon a cliff

beside a river, as though watching the gentle currents of the stream. There was an old

hunter who claimed to have seen her bathing in a secluded fountain at midnight, when the

cicadas themselves were asleep, when the moon reigned in the midst of silence, and

nothing disturbed the charm of solitude. In those same hours and under the same

circumstances was the time when the mysterious and melancholy notes of her harp might

be heard. Persons who heard them stopped, for they drew away and became hushed when

any attempt was made to follow them up.

Her favorable time for appearing, it is said, was after a storm. Then she would be

seen scurrying over the fields and whenever she passed, life, order, and calm were

renewed; the trees again straightened up their overthrown trunks, and all traces of the

unchained elements were wiped away.

When the poor country folk on the slopes of Makiling needed clothing or jewels

for the solemn occasions of life, she would lend them and besides, give her a pullet white

as milk, one that had never laid an egg, a dumalaga, as they say. Mariang Makiling was

very charitable and had a good heart. Now often has she not, in the guise of a simple

country maid, aided poor old women who went to the woods for firewood or to pick wild

fruits, by slipping among the latter nuggets of gold, coins, and jewels. A hunter who was

one day chasing a wild boar through the tall grass and thorny bushes of the thickets came

suddenly upon a hut in which the animal hid.

Soon a beautiful young woman issued from the hut and said to him gently: “The

wild boar belongs to me and you have done wrong to chase it. But I see that you are very

tired; your arms and legs are covered with blood. So come in and eat, and then you may

go on your way.”

Confused and startled, and besides charmed by the beauty of the young woman,

the man went in and ate mechanically everything she offered him, without being able to

speak a single word. Before he left, the young woman gave him some pieces of ginger,

charging him to give them to his wife for her cooking. The hunter put them inside the

crown of his broad hat and after thanking her, withdrew in content. On the was home, he

felt his hat becoming heavy so he took out many of the pieces and threw them away. But

what was his surprise and regret when the next day he discovered that what he had taken

to be ginger was solid gold, bright as a ray of sunshine. Although he tried to look for

them later, he could never find even one.

But for many years now, Mariang Makiling’s presence has not been manifested

on Makiling. Her vapory figure no longer wanders through the deep valleys or hovers

over the waterfalls on the serene moonlight nights. The melancholy tone of her

mysterious harp is no longer heard, and now lovers get married without receiving from

her jewels and other presents, many fear that she has disappeared forever, or at least, she

avoids any contact with mankind.

Yet on the side of the mountain, there is a clear, quite pool, and the legend

persists that her vapory figure may still be seen reflected in this pool in the mists of early dawn, and from time to time people to the countryside go to watch for her there

(Disclaimer: the story and picture are not mine, i just found it on the web and like to so much to share with everbody.)

Legends and Folktales

2008-11-14T13:21:53Z

PHILIPPINE LEGENDS

I was helping my nephew on his school report on Philippines legends.It really caught my interest that I wish to share it with everyone.

PHILIPPINE LEGENDS

BOHOL'S CHOCOLATE HILLS

This natural wonder never fails to awe it's visitors. There had been number of geologic studies regarding the formation this natural wonder of the world. A more recent theory asserts that an ancient volcano self-destructed and spewed huge blocks of stones which later on thrust forth from the ocean bed.

However the natives of Bohol learned two stories by heart as to how the hills were formed. The first legend narrates that it all started with a petty quarrel between two giants. In a heated argument they threw large boulders at each other after the fight it resulted to hundreds of brown monoliths on the ground thus forming the now famous landmark.

The second tale is about a gentle giant named Agoro who fell in love with a beautiful village girl. The giant was handsome and though a favorite among female giants, was also a loner. When everything and everybody sleeps, Arogo would sit by his favorite spot near the river to ponder or just watch the night pass by. One night while Arogo was by his spot, he noticed a beautiful native girl with hair as black as the night by the river bank. He instantly fell in love with Aluya. After that night. Arogo would always wait by his place to take a glimpse at his beloved Aluya. A rumor reached Arogo that Aluya would soon marry a man her parents chose for her.The night before Aluya's wedding, Agoro kidnapped Aluya. Seeing a giant, Aluya screamed, kicked and cried, but to no avail. Arogo was successful in abducting Aluya. In the giant's cave, Arogo tried to give Aluya food and water but the girl kept on crying. Her sadness reached her heart that she died with tears in her eyes. Arogo buried her and kept his vigil. He cried for days and months. Giant tears fell to the ground. He cried a thousand years for the loss of his love. After sometime, Arogo's tears hardened and became what we know today as Chocolate hills.

Believing in the cold sciences or romanticism of legends it's up to us but one thing is for sure is that during the summer, the dome-shaped grass covered limestone hills dry up and turn brown, transforming the area into seemingly endless rows of chocolate "kisses" making it one of the eight wonders of the world.

Re: Monkey Wine

2008-10-10T14:32:44Z

Title: Monkey wine

Author: Harle
Disclaimer: Saiyuki belongs to Minekura
Pairing: Implied 5X9, 8x9, 3x9
Rating: PG
Warning: m/m kissing
Beta: Thanks Pip!

Title: Monkey Wine

Inside an inn at small bustling town:

Knock! Knock!

“What do you want?”

“Hey! Gojyo, let me in will ya!” Goku hollered.

“Okay, go ahead monkey it’s a free world!”

The door was opened; Goku walked inside and closed the door behind him.

“What cha doing erokappa?”

Goku saw Gojyo on the window seat apparently on a drinking binge with four large bottles of rum; two of them were already empty, on a small table in front of him. He was presently holding a glass brimming with the intoxicating brew.

“What does it look like monkey, I’m having a one man drinking party!” was the redhead’s slurred reply. He was already quite drunk.

Goku just gave him a puzzled look as he sat down on the edge of the bed.

Gojyo kept his eyes trained on Goku as he took a long swig of his drink. Feeling the effects of the alcohol, an idea struck him and he smirked evilly at the younger man.

“Wanna drink, Goku? Come on try it, I promise I won’t squeal to Sanzo. It will be our secret.”

Goku gazed at Gojyo, his eyes like saucers as he stared incredulously at the older man.

“You want me to drink with you? But why?”

“Why not?” Gojyo argued. “I think you’re old enough to drink even if the bastard of a monk doesn’t realize it. I see an adult and besides, be honest with me, I’m sure you’re dying to try it, aren't ya?”

The brunet thought for a moment and a look of mischief came to his face as he leaned towards the redhead. “Okay, you got me there, but we’d better keep in down or Sanzo will have another reason to kill both of us.”

Gojyo smiled and winked as he refilled the glass and hand it over to Goku’s waiting hand.

“Okay here ya go ….”

Gojyo was about to warn him to drink it slowly but it was too late. Goku skulled it.

“Stupid! Drink it slowly. That’s pretty strong stuff, especially if you’re not used to alcohol!”

But the redhead was interrupted once again as Goku shoved the now empty glassed into his hand.

“Shut up and give me more, Gojyo!” Goku demanded in a low husky voice. His face was turning a pleasant shade of red and his eyes were hidden from view by his long bangs.

The redhead just shrugged, refilled the glass and gave it back to the brunet. He watched in morbid fascination as Goku, once again, downed the drink in one gulp.

Gojyo took the glass once again refilled it for himself. But while drinking his eyes were unconsciously drawn back to younger man as if pulled by an invisible string.

Goku started to laugh softly as he lifted his face to look at the older man. Gojyo forgot what we was doing as his attention was arrested by the young man before him. The kid he was traveling with had been replaced by a sultry young man with a flushed face, half-lidded, deep amber eyes and wide, sensual mouth that invited kisses.

He’s beautiful. Gojyo thought to himself. Why didn’t I notice that before? What a babe he is! He shook his head in order to clear it. Stop Gojyo! That’s Goku, for goodness sakes! He’s off limits or Sanzo will have you hide! But…

Gojyo was battling himself when he heard Goku’s husky voice calling him.

“Neh Gojyo, can I ask you a question?”

“Shoot, I'm all ears, what up?’ Gojyo trying hard not to blatantly stare at Goku’s moving lips.

“Is kissing girls all that great?” Goku’s face flushed with embarrassment.

Gojyo sputtered his drink in surprised and slammed the glass down on the table as he wiped his mouth at the back of his hand.

“What the hell? Why are asking me question about kissing all of the sudden?”

“But you always boast of all the women you kissed! I just wanted to ask if it’s true since I only experienced it once….” Goku face flushed even more as his voice trailed off.

“You got that right! Women love me…” Gojyo’s bluster was cut off as he processed what Goku had said.

He stared at Goku incredulously “What do you mean “I only experienced it once”? Do you mean you’ve actually kissed a girl?”

“Yes... No… I mean a girl kissed me! Remember that demon girl, that night of the disaster? I tried to stop her from leaving the village but all of the sudden she kissed me and before I could react she pushed me off the wagon. She did it so fast I don’t know if I liked or not.”

Gojyo look at him stupidly.

That girl gave Goku his first kiss! The redhead thought. Damn what a waste I missed my chance!

“Hey! Snap out of it erokappa and tell me! Is it really that great?”

Heat started to rise in Gojyo body at Goku’s question and he looked intensely at the younger man. To hell with Sanzo! He thought as he succumbed to the temptation.

He stood up from his seat and walked a short distance to the bed.

“Do you really want to know that badly, Goku?” He said in his best seductive voice as he sat down beside the young man. His thigh brushed Goku’s and the youth stiffened at the contact.

“If you really want to know I could show you what the hype is all about?” Gojyo asked in a low voice as he reached out, gently placed his right hand under Goku’s chin and tilt it gently towards him.

“Say yes and you won’t regret it I promised you...”

The brunet blushed, looking away but after a few minutes came upon a decision turned to look squarely at the redhead eyes and nodded his acquiesce.

Gojyo just smiled as he leaned in to claim Goku’s lips in a warm, gentle kiss. When both their lips brushed together electricity shot through Gojyo’s body and he groaned in pleasure.

Gods, his lips as so soft and sweet that they could rival any girl’s! Gojyo lost himself in the heat of the moment as he placed his other hand at Goku’s nape and pulled him closer, to make the young man lean on him for a much deeper kiss. For what seemed an eternity Gojyo kissed him with abandon and hunger until the need for air broke the kiss apart.

After taking in much needed oxygen Gojyo broke the silence. “Now that’s what I called a kiss! I must say for a first timer you are one of a hell of a kisser Goku!”

He waited for Goku’s reply but was puzzled when none came. Frowning, he gently pulled Goku away from him so that he could look at the other’s face. It was liked a douse of ice hold water, the reason that Goku’s ceased his movements was that he had fallen asleep, overcome by the alcohol and the redhead was so engrossed in the kiss that he hadn’t noticed.

Damn Goku! Why did you fall asleep in the middle of our kiss? Gojyo was pissed at the thought but looking at Goku’s peaceful face he felt the anger drain out of him. Goku, you’ve grown so much in this journey, but in some ways you are still a kid.

Gojyo slowly stood up and then pulled the covers over the sleeping young man. He ruffled his hair and claimed his lips a feathery kiss. Goku suddenly jerked way from him and moaned Sanzo’s name as he settled once again into deep slumber. The redhead pulled away, hurt feelings making his blood start to boil was again. Why was he doing all the hard work but the young man still called the priest name and not his? Sanzo wasn’t the only one capable of making Goku happy!

Gojyo gave a sigh on frustration as he sat back down at the window seat and resigned himself to watched Goku sleeping.

He sat there for an hour in deep thought until he was interrupted by a knocked on his door.

He gave a tired sigh and said “Come in.”

Hakkai peeked in “Gojyo had you seen Goku around? I’m getting worried. I haven’t seen him for two hours!” Hakkai stop speaking as his eyes caught the figure sleeping on Gojyo’s bed.

“Gojyo what did you do? It too early for Goku to fall asleep! Hakkai got closer to checked on him. Upon smelling his breath the healer realized was just has happened.

“Gojyo outside, we need to talk. Now!” Hakkai grated out as he pulled Gojyo roughly to the door. He slammed on the opposite wall “What the hell are you thinking, Gojyo, getting him drunk like that!” For the first time Gojyo felt fear at his best friend's wrath.

“Come on, 'Kai, chill out, will ya! Haven't you noticed that Goku is mature enough to decide if he wanted to start drinking or not?”

“I’ve known for a long time that Goku is a capable young man. I believe he can decide for himself. But Gojyo to allow him to get drunk is quite irresponsible of you!”

“Hey, don't blame me I just invited him to drink but it was his decision to get drunk!”

Gojyo ran his hand on his hair and thought: If you want to know the truth Hakkai, I also didn't want him to get too drunk. If he was still conscious, both of us may still making beautiful music together. Damn, but I won't tell you my secret...

“But why would he do that Gojyo?” Hakkai's question interrupted the redhead’s lecherous thoughts.

“I guess he got drunk over a girl who kissed him.”

“What! A girl kissed Goku!” Hakkai’s voiced rose as Gojyo looked in shock at his best friend reaction to the news.

“Yeah man, I was surprised by the news too. Goku told me that while we were away from the demon village that girl kissed him!”

“That harlot did what that to our innocent Goku!” Hakkai was getting agitated and an evil aura was surrounding him.

Man, Hakkai is so scary when he is angry I'm glad I'm not that girl! Gojyo thought to himself. But wait why would he react like this? Could he be jealous? No! Don't tell me Hakkai likes Goku too!

“Hakkai, from the way you are reacting, I’d say you have the hots for the monkey!” the redhead commented in a joking manner.

Hakkai stared incredulously at his best friend, and then he blushed and looked away.

“What if I am? I thought you would have noticed long ago. Have you ever wondered why I always take his side, why I always kind to him and why he's Jeep’s favorite? It’s because I’ve loved him ever since we first met.”

Gojyo looked shocked Damn! I never thought Hakkai's feeling ran that deep. What darn bad luck. For the first time I’ve found somebody worthwhile and then realize my best friend is interested in him too. What a bummer!

“For the past few years I’ve just watched from afar, contented just to be by his side. But that has changed it seems. I have a rival.” Hakkai voiced took a deadly edge has he look at Gojyo.

“Gojyo you’re interested in Goku too.” It wasn't a question but a statement. “I warn you that even though you' re my best friend I won't hand Goku to you without a fight! I intend to make Goku fall in love with me no matter what, so may the best man win!”

Hakkai raised his hand towards Gojyo.

Gojyo clasped Hakkai hand in a strong grip.” Sorry Hakkai, but I’ll win his heart for sure!”

The two glared at each other as they shook hands. Then door slammed open and Sanzo came out.

“Shut up, both of you!” Sanzo bellowed looking pissed. “I’m trying to get some sleep but your racket is keeping me awake!”

“Umm… sorry Sanzo.” Hakkai apologized.

Gojyo only glared at the priest.

“Che, just keep it down, you morons!” Sanzo dismissed them as he looked around.

“Hey Hakkai, where is Goku?” Sanzo asked.

Both Hakkai and Gojyo stiffened at the question.

“Um…Goku is...” The healer was trying to come up with an excuse.

“I'm here, Sanzo!” Goku said, as he came out of Gojyo's room. He walked steadily towards the priest, showing no signs of being drunk to the relief of both Hakkai and Gojyo.

“What in hell are doing in the kappa room!” Sanzo looking even more pissed.

“I was bored, so I decided to bug Gojyo. But now you are awake so let's go to the restaurant! I am hungry!” The sound of Goku's stomach growling dispelled the awkwardness of the situation and both Hakkai and Gojyo started laughing.

Sanzo huffed “What so funny, you morons?”

“Come on Sanzo, let's eat!” Goku interrupted, taking his hand pulling the monk towards the direction of the stairs. With his face hidden no one noticed the softening of Sanzo's face when he looked at the Goku.

When both of them disappeared from view Hakkai looked at his best friend, “Goku is so amazing... Gojyo are you sure should we tell him of our feelings?

“What do you mean Hakkai? Are you chickening out?” Gojyo spat.

“It just that… no just forget it.” Hakkai shook his head to clear it, and then he smiled at the redhead. “Let ‘operation monkey love’ begin and may the best man win!”

“Great 'Kai, that's the spirit! But don't cry if I win, okay?” The redhead with a cheeky grin plastered on his face. “Now that's decided let's go after those two 'coz...”

“I’m hungry!” The two shouted in unison with a smile on there faces as went of the join the others.

The end

Thanks for reading

Comments or suggestions please

Re: The Summoner's Chapter Four B

2008-09-03T12:43:31Z

The Summoners
Chapter Four Part B

Author: Harle

Disclaimer: Saiyuki belongs to Minekura

Pairing: Sanzo x Goku(future)

Rating: PG

Warnings: violence

Beta: Thanks for the patience Pip!

Here is the latest chapter of the summoner's series. Sorry about this but I have to divide into two parts to make it fit it was too long. The second part is Gojyo's side story.

“Fated first meetings and friendships that go beyond death and rebirth!”

The Summoner's
Chapter fourB

Characters
Goku- Connor Summers
Sanzo- Hugh Masters
Hakkai- Alex Moore
Gojyo- Jake Stokes

Jake Stokes abruptly slammed the phone in a temper befitting his long red hair. He remembered Connor told once his hair was so red it was like fire. Its fiery colors showed its owner’s volatile temper. How many times his hot-blooded nature and daredevil lifestyle brought him into trouble and almost cost his life? He lost count but if wasn’t for Connor’s help he would have been dead right now and for that he would be forever in the young man debt. So he felt protective of the young man to the extent he could feel his temper rising when kid got hurt in the process of helping others. So that morning when Connor was late for his shift, ,he knew something must have happened to him. And after making that phone call he was right .The young man was it again, helping others without any thought of his own safety.. Me and the kid must’ve a long talk after he wakes up. He thought. He’s ask the boy to curtail his stupid heroics or he, Jake, would die of myocardial infarction before he could add any more red headed kids to general population!

“Now, Jake just cool it and tell me what happened to your favorite boy?” Marcus his college buddy, business partner and resident peacemaker, asked, trying to lighten up his friend’s dark mood.

“Drop it or people will get the wrong idea, Marcus! I'm not into men! Jake protested in embarrassment. “You know more that anyone it’s not like that, I owe that boy my life. He's like a kid brother to me and so that why….”

“I know man, I’m sorry; I was just trying to calm you down before you burn the place to ashes!”

“You mean that you did it on purpose? How low can you get, man?”

“I did what I had to do and look it worked! Just calm down. Now tell me what happened, don’t forget your not the only that cares for the kid, we all do.” His friend looked at him with a serious expression on his face.

Jake sighed scrubbing his hand on his face and started talking. “Sorry I wasn’t thinking straight; anyway it seemed I was right our boy was at it again, I think he has a super hero complex or something. But I’m afraid he didn’t go out uninjured like the last time he just got shot by, ironically, a bullet meant for someone else. The person that answered my call was the bastard that the kid helped. He told me he took the kid to Liberty Hospital and presently waiting for the results of the surgery. I’m heading there right now I would feel better if the kid awakens with a familiar face and not with some random stranger. So I’ll leave this place to you and I’ll contact you a soon as I talked to the doctor.”

“Okay, Jake, leave this place to me and send our regards to Connor as soon as he wakes up although only after you scolded him for his foolhardiness. Now go before I go teary eyed and give you a goodbye kiss!”, his friend joked as he tried to erase the worries on his friends face.

“Sorry you’re not my type! I go for beautiful voluptuous babes!” Jake quipped back in better spirits. “I’m going now, see ya later! And, Marcus, thanks mate, I owe you one!”

Jake went out the door of the restaurant into the sunlight and put on his Oakley sunglasses to shield his eyes from the bright light. He wasn’t a morning person. He walked a couple of steps and got on his red sports car and went on his way. The drive was uneventful with only few cars and pedestrians to contend with. Lady luck was smiling at him once again. He looked at his surroundings and thought Crap! Poor kid to be trapped in a dreary hospital on such a beautiful day! Well, serves him right for being a busybody not minding his own damn business! Gees, I feel like his mother or something getting all worked up like that and pretty soon I might grow premature gray hair for all that worrying! Jake cringed at that thought If that ever happens I will be sending him my salon bill for the dye job! Growing somber once again he thought of the kid and recalled that fated night they first met …

                                                                                 ++++

It was a chilly winter evening the moon was eerily large looking very ominous that night. If he only had known inconceivable things happened on the night of a full moon he would had stayed home but fate as would have it he didn’t take in the ominous signs and went to the casino for a round or two of gambling.

He was pretty shrewd poker player capable of reading his opponents demeanor without much effort. And by doing so he would always win the game at end of each round to the consternation of his opponents. Looking at the faces of his victims, the suckers at the table were all were familiar, frequenting the casino like himself, except for one. The man was new to the gambling circuit, he realized, because he always made an effort to know all the casino patrons and he had never seen this man before. The man was large and swarthy with multiple scars on his face and hands. The stranger’s face was pudgy and round with dark, bloodshot eyes swiveling from one player other another. He gave them each suspicious looks, as if all of them were cheating him for his money. Something was wrong with the picture. The stranger was wearing an expensive suit but he didn’t looked as if he belong there. He looked

like he had just been released from prison and was looking for his next victim. He was so deep in thought that the stranger noticed his blatant staring and gave him an intimidating look before got up and left the room.
Feeling spooked Jake decided to call it a night and collected his winnings and said his goodbyes to the other players.

He got out of the building into the chilly winter night. He pulled his expensive winter coat closer to his body thankful for its warmth. He was making his way through the casino’s parking lot to his car, when he looked up and he noticed, once again, the full moon in a cloudless sky. He stood, mesmerized by it, when he heard hurried footsteps. Not taking any chances, he quickly turned around and saw the stranger from the casino and he was holding a serrated knife, possibly swiped form the casino’s kitchen.

“Hey Red, you cheat, give me my money back! No, hand over all of your dough if want to live to see all of your grand kids! The swarthy man grated the words out, as he approached Jake in a menacing manner.

The red head wasn’t too impressed. He grinned cockily to the other man he said “My, my, what to we have here? A sore loser? The name’s not Red and don't insult me! I didn't cheat; you're just a lousy poker player, that’s all! Admit it; I beat you fair and square! Get lost you’re polluting the air with your stench!” He jeered and watch in morbid fascination as his opponent’s face started to contort with anger.

“Are you deaf or something? Now hand over the damn money or you would be sorry!” said the other man, becoming more menacing.

“Make me, ugly!”

“Okay, you asked for it, buster! It's time to meet your maker!” His adversary suddenly lunged forward trying to stab him with the knife. Jake grinned as he evaded the attacks without any effort all. He was well versed in street fighting, having fought all his life.

I have only time for luscious babes. He thought. Not for sore losers like this! It's time to end this joke! Initially, he just evaded but now he took the offensive. Without any warning he gave his attacker a powerful left hook hitting him squarely on the face and while his opponent was reeling from the blow he made a grabbed for his shoulders and pushed him hard onto the pavement, face down. He sat on the opponent's waist keeping him in place and with one hand successfully disarmed him and with the other hand kept the poor man's head down on the ground.

Jake leaned over and whispered on the fallen man's ear. “Was that all you’ve got? You are so pathetic! Now what should I do with you?”

“It's no over yet, Little Red Riding Hood, this old wolf has a trick up his sleeve!” he gave an evil grin as he gave out a sharp whistle. “Come on boys, it time for you all to earn your keep! Change of plans! First kill this nobody and then we will rob the casino!”

Jake watched in horror one by one men step out from the shadows and begin walking towards the two of them. “Shit!” he cursed on clenched teeth. He was strong but not strong enough to fight all six at once.. As he slowly stood up he kept his head high as the men surrounded him blocking his escape. Well Jake, he thought to himself, it seems your luck has ran out but I'm not gonna down without a fight. If I die tonight I will take them down with me!

Suddenly the wind started to gather strength, a voice was heard being carried by the wind from the trees lining the perimeter of the parking space.

“My, my ..what do we have here? Six against one? That seems unfair, let’s even the odds!”

Out of the darkness a figure showed himself and jumped from the tallest of the trees. The fall was graceful and controlled as if the jumper can manipulate the winds to his will. Jake got a good look at him and saw a slender brown haired young men who look liked he couldn't hurt a fly much more a group of experienced thieves.

Damn, it's seems I have to protect his kid too. Give me a break! Jake thought to himself.

The young man just stood there for a moment, assessing the situation, then he suddenly vanished and reappeared behind one of the thugs.

Connor smirked, tapped the man on his shoulder and said “Excuse me, I'm sorry but I'm your opponent for tonight.” The thug turned toward the voice and looked down at the young man.

The young man looked up and gave him an innocent smile and said,” It’s time to go to sleep, good night!”

That was the last thing the thug saw. The boy suddenly jumped high and as he descended he whipped his leg in an arc and hit the side poor man's head dead on, rendering him unconscious in an instant. Jake watched in horror as he saw the looked of shock on the man’s face before he lost consciousness and fell to the ground like a rag doll. The companions of the fallen man stood there in stupefied silence, they couldn't believe that a mere boy defeated one of them with a single blow. They realized the young man was no pushover and they decided to gang up on the kid. With loud cries the remaining five rushed towards the teenager from all directions with intent to kill him and the carnage began.

Connor just stood there in a relaxed stance, readying his body for the coming attacks. The first one came from behind; his attacker grabbing his neck in a choke hold. The boy didn’t waste a second. As soon as the thug grabbed him he swiftly grabbed his attacker’s hands and pressed them into his chest, while pulling it downward. With a suddenly burst of strength he shifted his weight to his back left foot and, ducked underneath his attacker, lifting him off

the ground and throwing him hard into a brick wall. Connor watched as blood splattered on the wall the thug crumpled to the ground, his expression unreadable as his golden eyes seemed to glow and pupils becoming elliptical. He turned to the sound of running footsteps and immediately leaped to the air as two men ran at him swinging sturdy bats at the spot where Connor stood only a moment before. The two men didn’t stand a chance as young man leaped up, ready for his counterattack. On his way down he snapped his legs in opposite sides while performing a full circle spin that hit both simultaneously in the back of the neck. The bats fell useless to the ground as their owners soon followed. They looked unhurt, except for the unusual angle of their broken necks.

Damn! Connor thought. I’m afraid I might have the killed the last two, I should be careful they are a scum but are still humans. Connor you dolt! He admonished himself, now is not the time to worry about your opponents, the fight isn’t over yet.

“Well, three down who’s next?” Connor asked, looking at the remaining two who were standing protectively in front of their boss.

Jake just stood there mouth gaping open as he watched four full grown men fell at the hands of a teenager in just a few seconds.

Man! He thought as sweat fell from his temples. That kid may not look it but that he’s really strong, kicking the shit out of men twice his size. Jake remembered he was considered the strongest member in his gang and he was four years older then the kid. But he couldn’t do what he did just now, taking down experienced fighters with just a single blow. This kid can’t be human! So what in the world is he?

Jake shook his head. Now is not the time for deep thought, it was never one of his strong points. Better to leave that to Marcus. He needed to get a move on, he wouldn’t allow the kid to steal his thunder. He started this fight and he would finish it.

So he sauntered towards the young man and placed a hand on one of his shoulders and in a light tone said, “Whoa now boy! Just relax, this is my fight, let me end it.”

The young man look at him with feral golden eyes, they seem to glow and the pupils were catlike. Connor looked at him for a few seconds a looked of recognition on his face and nodded in understanding. Gojyo’s back, he thought, that means I might find Sanzo and Hakkai too! The young man took a deep breath and closed his eyes and then opened them again. Jake was caught by pair large unfathomable pools of molten gold, their depth filled with secrets, familiarity and warmth. They seem to lose their glow and the pupils were now round and human like except for the eye color. No human had huge golden eyes that looked like they could swallow the whole world.

“Damn, those eyes look so familiar but I know I’ve never met him before! So why am feeling like this? Jake stood there staring like an idiot and the young man looked uncomfortable with the scrutiny waved a hand to in front of older man’s eyes.

“Oy,ground control to Major Red, wake up the fight isn’t over yet!”

“I’m not Major Red! I have a name you know, beautiful women sing it: it’s Jake!”

“Okay, you’re Jake. Just call me Connor, thought I’d honestly like to call you ‘Cockroach’ with that hair of yours sticking out like to antennas!” Connor said smiling evilly.

“I’m not a cockroach, you monkey! Jake argued back. Now where that came from, but the name fits the young man very well…Jake thought.

“I’m not a monkey you perverted water sprite!”

“Monkey!”

“Pervert!”Connor couldn’t hide his grin. This is Gojyo alright, welcome back brother!

“Stomach brain monkey!” Jake insulted back enjoying the banter. He thought: this is weird we are arguing like brothers and I’m really enjoying this!

This is like old times! Connor thought with glee when out on the blue a single shot was fired at them almost hitting Jake when Connor pushed the older man from harm’s way.

Both of them stood facing their remaining opponents and saw three pissed thieves.

“Don’t look down at us! We can and will kill you both! Just you wait and see!” The leader Mr. Swarthy Face hollered at them.

Both Connor and Jake looked at each other and laughed out loud.

“That’s a hoot coming from you buster!” Jake taunted. “Or have you forgotten four of your men got beaten by a mere boy! Now scat or do you all want to end up like them?” Jake cracked his knuckles with relish. “We could arrange that for you!”

“Stop insulting us! Pretty soon you will beg for mercy!” one of the thugs shouted back, clearly irritated by Jake taunts.

“Show to them our true power, men! Make them suffer! The leader ordered his men.

Jake looks at kid and asked “Are you ready kid? Let’s end this!”

Connor just nodded stood in position and Jake followed as well.

The two thugs moved forward an evil smirk on their faces clearly they are up to something. The two of them removed matching earrings and let them fall on the ground and before their very eyes the two men started transformed into demons.

Connor you careless fool! He berated himself; I should have noticed the other two were demons, different not like their human companions and it’s so obvious with those limiters they have been wearing! Damn, I’m going to pay for that but more importantly I must get Jake to safety first.

Connor turned to talk to Jake when he saw his friend expression of pure shock and revulsion.

“What? Are those demons?” Jake asked Connor without taking his eyes from their opponents. He watched in horror as their ears started to elongate, their skin thickened, turning into an ugly shade of green, teeth and nails becoming long and sharp.

“Jake please listened to me, it’s very important” Connor said in an urgent manner and thus gained Jake’s full attention. “Yes, they demons and they want to kill all humans! Now please trust me leave this place now!” Connor implored the older man with his golden eyes. “If you fight them they will kill you. I’ll get their attention while you make your escaped and then I’ll follow as soon as I am able to.”

Jake just looked at him in bewilderment. “Just go Jake!” Connor pushed him in exasperation and broke the haze the older man was in. He looked into those golden eyes “Okay, I’ll go ‘coz I trust you! Stay alive and promised me we will meet again!” With those parting words he got on his car and left.

Connor watched him leave “Goodbye, Gojyo….” and then turned to face the two demons.

Little did he know when Jake got out of the gates, he changed his mind and he decided he would go back for the boy. He went back inside, stopped the car a good distance away. He took out his gun out of its hiding place and went on his way. He walked in the shadows beneath trees so as not to draw attention to himself. As he got nearer he saw Connor just standing where he left him moments before.

Connor watched as they finished transforming, it seemed that the change took longer than it had in the distant past.

“Hey did that red head leave! Go get him you buffoons!” the leader hollered.

Jake was pissed off but decided no to retaliate. He didn't want to destroy the boy’s escape plan. Little did he know that in a few minutes he will witness something truly incredible and life changing.

Connor blocked their way. “As I told you before: I am your opponent for tonight. If you want to get him you have to get through me first!”

“You’re going to pay for interfering, pretty boy! Kill him men, let his death be a long and agonizing one!”

Jake could feel the hairs at the back his neck standing on its end. Something not of this world was making its presence known.

The winds started howl and flashes of lightning streaked the dark skies as thunder rumbled at the distance. Connor raised his right hand and a silver gun appeared on it. He aimed the gun at his temple and pulled the trigger in a deafening bang.

Silence followed and then bright light appeared engulfing the young man. His opponents couldn’t see a thing but could feel the powerful chi emanating from within. So powerful it wasn’t like anything they’d felt before and for the first time they tasted fear.

The bright light dissipated and they beheld a creature that was more than a demon, almost like a god. The kid was no more; they were facing the ultimate creation, Seiten Taisei Son Goku.

Jake was in wonder. Connor looked like a god of war, a creature who brought awe for his formidable power and otherworldly beauty. He sunk down to the ground in shock.

Goku’s long hair was whipped by the wind as he sized up the two demons with his bright golden eyes. He smiled a little, raised his clawed right hand taunting his opponents to come forward.

“Well come on, get on with it, I thought you wanted to kill me! Goku looked unimpressed making the leader angrier.

“Come on fools, kill him!” the leader ordered his subordinates.

“Boss, are you crazy? That creature is Seiten Taisei, he kills gods! How could we kill him, mere demons?” One of the demons shouted in blind panic.

“I’m getting out of here! No amount of money is worth dying for!” said the other.

Both of them tried to make a get away but before Goku could do anything two long tentacles appeared out of the ground and caught the two escaping demons. They came from the leader as he too transformed in to a large demon. The other two demons were dragged back to their master.

“You feared Seiten Taisei more than me! Now pay for your treachery! I will eat you both alive!”

Goku watched in disgust at leader devoured his subordinates and the demon mutated into a form of a grotesque monster. But he wasn’t surprised; he knew this would happen if a demon consumed his owned kind. He would mutate into a monster and become much stronger then before.

“Now this more like it! A challenge! Let’s fight to the death!” Goku shouted, adrenaline pumping through his body. Fearing their fight might call unwanted attention he created a barrier enclosing the whole parking area keeping the sounds and released energies within the given space. That done, it was time to fight.

Goku charged but the monster aimed a huge fireball at him. The fireball only hit bare ground as the Sage jumped to evade it. High up in the air Goku fisted the hand of his extended right arm. Golden streaks of pure energy erupted from his extended fist and solidified into a golden bow. The sage extended the pointer finger and aimed it at the monster. The tip of his index finger started to glow with fiery light, building in power. When the brightness reach its zenith, Goku, cried out as he released its full ferocity towards his enemy in the form of a large arrow. The attack was so fast that monster couldn't do anything but take the hit and was thrown a few feet away into the hard unforgiving earth. The Sage, seeing that it was still reeling from the blow, summoned nyoi-bo set up for another attack but the monster recovered quickly and in a sudden burst of speed whipped his tail hard into Goku's stomach and slammed him into a car windshield a few meters away.

Goku was coughing up blood clearly he sustained internal injury but he ignored it as he stood up and wiped the blood of his mouth. He slitted eyes narrowed as a smile formed on his lips as they both faced off. Brandishing nyoi-bo, the Sage rushed forward and the fight started once again. It was an all out fight to the finished, parrying blows and taking powerful hits. But by using huge amounts of energy took its toll on the former demon's injured body. He was tiring quickly but the opposite could be said of the Sage, who didn’t look winded at all. Goku noticed and seized the opportunity he gave a vicious stab into the monster's stomach with his nyoi-bo. His opponent fell to the ground in sheer agony.

“It seems your time is up, it's time for me to end this!”

In a blink of the eyes Goku suddenly vanished into thin air and reappeared way up high in the sky. He closed his eyes in concentration he cupped his right hand and a small black sphere blossomed from within. With fluid grace he slowly raised his hand up forming an arc by swinging his arm from behind him and from there slowly raising it up above his head. The black sphere grew in size and power as Goku fed it his chi until it matured into a black hole. The Sage suddenly snapped his eyes wide open; his golden eyes were eerily glowing in great contrast with the darkness of the night. He looked down upon his opponent and, with a push of his hand; he hurled it towards the ground underneath his opponent. The monster didn’t have the chance to escape as it started to sink to the earth,, the black hole pulling him down. Goku saw the looked of fear, pain and utter panic in the former demon's eyes but he had no choice; it was either kill or be killed. The Sage watched as it was swallowed by the ground until nothing could be seen and its anguished cries were abruptly cut off. Then silence reigned. Goku sigh tiredly as he sent the black hole to where it came from and then removed the protective barrier surrounding the parking space.

Goku was so tired his vision faded and he felt himself succumbing to the encroaching darkness.

Better leave this place before I collapse He though to himself. Damn, I used too much power summoning that black hole! But it was the only option left to me, if I’d used another method goodness knows how much damage I’d have caused and it's a pain to clean it up afterwards! I’d better go now before people noticed me! But that wasn't meant to be for Goku heard footsteps made way towards him.

Double crap somebody has seen the fight! Lucky enough he didn't turn tail in fear like everybody else. Now’s the chance to erased his memories of the fight before anything bad happens! With the planned spell in mind Goku turned towards the sound and to his utter surprise it was Jake the last person he wanted see at that very moment.

“Damn you, for not listening to me!” Goku cursed under his breath. That was the last word he said as he lost consciousness, overwhelmed by shock and exhaustion. As he fell he reverted back to his human form and Jake caught him before he hit the ground.

Jake saw everything that happen and was utterly awed by the kid's strength and power.

“Damn that kid's powerful!What the heck is he a god?!”

He decided to make his presence known and started to walked towards the young man his eyes never leaving Connor's unmoving back. But he didn’t anticipate the young man would suddenly collapse in front of him. Jake rushed forward and in a nick of time caught him in his arms before he hit the ground.

“Hey, are you okay, Connor? Answer me damn it!” Jake cried checked the boy's pulse and gave a sighed of relief when he found it. He face softened as he looked down the amazing young man. “Stupid monkey, don't scare me like that again!” He stood carefully   and tightened his grip on the boy, holding him safe.

”Well kid, you did your good deed and now it’s my turn to help you.” Jake quietly said those words and took the young man to his home.

                                                                        ++++

Jake drove through the center of the town, a smile on his face as the memories washed over him and then it was replaced by a frown when he thought about the present.

“Gods, Connor for once in your life don't stick your noggin into other people's business! I know you won't be killed easily, but didn't you think you might kill me with all this worry? I can see I’ll have to chain you to your bed!” Jake ranted in his car, getting weird looks from people. But for once he didn't mind the looks because the hospital was in sight.

“It's monkey clobbering time!” Jake thought with an evil smirk on his face. “But before that let's teach a lesson to the ingrate that Connor protected! They’re both in deep shit!”

Hugh was busy pacing the floor, he was getting pissed off, and almost three hours had gone by with no word. He was about to got out and demand that the nurses to bring Dr. Moore to the waiting room. Then he felt a light tap on his shoulder, he quickly turned around and saw it was the very person he wanted to talked to.

The doctor was smiling at him, making his blood boiled more.

“Sorry for the wait but we need to sure if there will be no complications before we can discharge the patient from the recovery room …”

“Just tell me if the brat is okay or not, damnit!” Hugh interrupted the doctor’s long monologue.

“Sorry, Connor is…”

“Connor is what?” Another voice interrupted and both turned to the newcomer.

Standing at the entrance was a red haired man whose eyes were trained on both Hugh and Alex.

“Connor! Tell me what happened to Connor!”

To be continued.

Comments and suggestions please.

Thanks for reading ^ __ ^

Re: The Summoner's Chapter Four A

2008-09-03T12:31:47Z

The Summoners
Chapter Four Part A

Author: Harle

Disclaimer: Saiyuki belongs to Minekura

Pairing: Sanzo x Goku(future)

Rating: PG

Warnings: violence

Beta: Thanks for the patience Pip!

Here is the latest chapter of the summoner's series. Sorry about this but I have to divide into two parts to make it fit it was too long.The first one is about Hakkai's side story

“Fated first meetings and friendships that go beyond death and rebirth!”

The Summoner's
Chapter four

Characters
Goku- Connor Summers
Sanzo- Hugh Masters
Hakkai- Alex Moore
Gojyo- Jake Stokes

At the hospital…

Dr. Moore discussed the course of treatment for Connor's injury with both with Dr. Reeves and the head nurse.

“I think arthroscopic surgery is the best course of action. We can assess the severity of the damage and treat the injury at the same time. It only requires short recovery time and the patient can be discharged next day.”

“Yes, I agree Alex, nurse please prepare the necessary instruments. We will start as soon as possible.”

“Consider it done, doctor.” said the nurse as she left them to get prepared for the surgery.

“Alex, why don't you lead this operation and I will assist you, it will be like old times.” said Dr. Reeves, the resident orthopedic surgeon and one of Alex's good friends.

“No, you lead the surgery, Mark, after all this is your department and I have only come here to do research for my report, after this I will go back to the university.

“No, I disagree, my friend; I think you are the best choice. After all, you are one best orthopedic surgeons in the state and the patient is a friend of yours, isn't that right?”

“Ok, you’re right, I’ll do it!” Alex conceded. “He is my friend and moreover I owe him for helping me out of a bad situation. Let’s go, shall we? I think everybody’s set for the operation. But before that let me talk to he's companion before we begin. Okay?”

Alex approached the blond man and said, “Your name’s Hugh, isn’t it? Please don't worry about Connor. He’s in good hands.

The blond man snorted. “I’m not worried over that idiot! I just want to this nightmare to be over so that I can get on with my life!”

If Alex was shocked by blond man’s harsh words he didn’t show it. He just gave him an ubiquitous smile and continued on to talk as if the blond man didn’t interrupt him.

“The surgery will start pretty soon it will take a couple of hours or more, so please go to the waiting lounge. I will send someone over to get you when we’re finished..”

The blond man just stared at him and then nodded in agreement to the doctor’s suggestion.

Alex called a nurse to show the blond the way to the lounge. With that done he and Mark went to the operating theater to begin the surgery.

When two doctors were scrubbed and suited up for the operation they entered the theater and saw that the young man was already sedated and on the operating table ready for the surgery to begin. Without further ado they started, Dr. Alex after making the necessary small incisions, the irrigation with sodium chloride and suction of blood and debris away from the affected areas. He inserted the arthroscope and in a few minutes saw on the monitor what he has suspected after having seen the x-rays of Connor’s right arm and hand.

“Mark, it was as we suspected all along. Connor sustained a gunshot wound to the lateral portion of his arm which caused the proximal portion of his humerus to fracture and the bullet to lodge in the subacromial space.”

“I agree with your assessment, so now we know the nature of the injury let’s treat it.”

“Okay, let’s begin. I’ll be happier when this all over and Connor’s up and about again.”

They initiated the treatment which started with a round of intravenous antibiotics, another round of irrigation and debridement of dead blood vessel, tissues and other debris, the bullet removed from the subacromial space, closing of both the entrance wound and the incisions made during the surgery and lastly resetting and bandaging of the fractured right arm. After the surgery was done Connor was taken to the recovery room.

Alex looked relieved as he watched the boy being taken away.

Mark looked at him fondly and said “You look relieved, Alex. I am happy he didn’t suffer major complications.”

“You don’t how much weight has been lifted from my shoulders, Mark. I would never have forgiven myself if something had happened to him! I made a promise and I will keep it until I breathe my last!” Alex said, with much conviction.

“Wow, that young man must be amazing to get you all fired up like that. Introduce me to him when he’s lucid enough to see visitors, okay? Now go, be with him and leave the rest to me.”

Alex when in and saw Connor that was the only occupant of the room. He approached the bed quietly but none the less the young man heard him. He slowly opened his eyes and blinks a couple of times.

“Is that you, Alex?” The young man asked as he tried to reach out to the older man. “I’m sorry for troubling you like this.”

Alex caught those hands in his held them tightly and admonished Connor. “What are apologizing for? It’s not your fault. Have you forgotten the promise I gave you? I promised to help you whenever you needed me and it still stands.”

Large hazy golden eyes met worried deep emerald green and the young man gave him a small smile.

“Thank you, Alex.”

“You’re welcome, Connor.” he said as he released Connor hands and sat on the chair besides the boy’s bed.

“Hush now, you must rest. You’re still recovering from the surgery.” said Alex as he smoothed Connor’s bangs as if he was a child.

“Okay, I will rest now…” Connor trailed of in a tired voice and after a few seconds he was asleep.

Alex watched as Connor slept and a small smile blossomed on his face.

Connor you are quite amazing Alex thought. We live in a corrupt society, people living for themselves not caring if they hurt other people in the process. But the stain never touches you, you remain innocent and pure. A ray of hope in a world filled with darkness and despair.

“Remember the first time we met?” Alex asked in a soft voice.

Alex looked at Connor peaceful face as he recalled that night….


    ++++

The night was dreary; it was raining so hard that Alex could hardly see through the windshield. It was past one am, he has just come out of the hospital, after having finished the report due in a couple of days. He know he shouldn’t be out this late, especially when it was reported that a band of demons had been seen roaming the city streets at night. But he had no choice because he had a flight to catch at six am that morning and he had to yet to pack for the trip. The drive was slow and he wanted to get home, he was dog tired and he had an early start, so he took a short cut through a dangerous part of the city. It was there that disaster struck; he couldn’t remember the full details he just remembered he was speeding when the car suddenly hit something. The car swerved to the left and he saw himself careening toward the wall of an old abandoned building and then everything turned black. When he regained consciousness, at first all he saw was white and after a few seconds he realized he was looking at an airbag. As he slowly righted himself he could feel pain all over his body, especially in his left arm. He breathed in slowly and tried to assess the extent of his injuries. After a few minutes of checking he gave a sigh of relief. Although he had many cuts and bruises, his only note worthy injury was his broken left arm and maybe a mild concussion but his relief was short live, as he smelt gasoline in the air.

“Shit, gasoline tank leaked! I’d better get out of here!” Alex forced his battered body to move. He pushed the car door open and he hurriedly got out. As soon as he struggled out the car suddenly exploded sending him flying in the air and he landed face down on the hard wet pavement a few feet from the car. Cold rain battered him, as he tried to lift his aching body. As he lifted his face off the pavement he heard footsteps heading his way. Without thinking he shouted, “Please help me!”

Alex felt a pair hands close on his neck and lift him up in a choke hold. He struggled in the air but stopped when he heard cruel laughter. He looked up and saw, to his horror, that his so called savior was a full pledged demon and he was not alone.

“Look boys a human just asked us for help? What should we do with him?” The one holding Alex asked his companion, a cruel glint in his eyes.

“Why don’t we skin, him alive boss and then watch him die slowly!” The youngest of them piped up.

“That’s a good idea boss let us watch him suffer!” the other voiced his approval as the rest of the group howled their agreement..

“Okay, so it’s agreed!” The demon leader then whispered cruelly to Alex’s ears, “You heard that human, be honored to be killed by the likes of us!”

But first lets us have some fun before the main event!” Without any warning the demon leader kicked Alex hard in the stomach sending him colliding hard with a nearby cement wall.

I’m going to die! I’m going die! He kept repeating the mantra in his head and he felt himself loosing consciousness once again. He painfully leaned his tired body on the wall he slowly lifted his head and saw one of them charging at him. He closed his eyes waiting for the blow to hit him but it never came. He heard a groan of pain that was not his own and was surprised by the angry shouts of the other demons.

He slowly opened his eyes, to his surprise, he saw a young man standing in front of him and underneath his feet an unconscious demon.

The young man looked back at him smiled reassuringly and said. “Don’t be scared I heard your call for help and so here I am. Rest easy now, I promise you will come out of this alive and so please leave everything to me!”

Alex found himself staring at those sad golden eyes, arrested not only for their unique beauty but also by their familiarity, as he if he’d met the young man before. That was impossible, he’d never have forgotten those eyes. He continued to look into them until he see no more and surrendered to unconsciousness.

He felt himself comfortable lying on something soft as he gradually regained consciousness. He opened his eyes and found himself inside an ambulance and beside him the young man, who was deep in thought and who certainly didn’t look like he’d fought a group of demons only a short time before.

How did we escape a gang of bloodthirsty demons? He couldn’t have…Alex thought, but his mind couldn’t form a coherent thought.

The young man noticed his stare and gave him that easy smile “Oh good, you are awake! I’m glad! You don’t know how worried I was when you didn’t come round.”

“How did we…” Alex found himself asking and was interrupted by the young man.

“Don’t worry I didn’t fight them all. The noise of the sirens scared them off!”

The young man laughed at the confused look on the older man’s face, “You see I saw your car hitting the wall and called for help first before I came out to help you. I brought a bat with me and hit the demon who was about to hurt you and then you fainted. I tried to stall for time and fortunately the police and the ambulance arrived before we became demon food!”

The young man’s story seemed too good to be true but before he could say so, the paramedic interrupted them.

“Now Connor stop talking to the patient and let him rest.”

The young man nodded gave them both an apologetic smile before he looked out of the windows once again.

And the paramedic looked at Alex and said, “You too, Dr. Moore, you know better! You must rest and not aggravate your injuries. Anyway, it won’t be long before we will arrive at the hospital.”

“I am resting right now and the young man wasn’t disturbing me.” He turned back to his companion. “

Connor’s your name, right?” he asked the young man.

“Yeah that's right and your Dr. Moore.” Connor turned to look at him his eyes warm and friendly.

“Just call me Alex and could you do me one last favor? Will you please stay around until my treatment is finished? I know it’s a lot to ask, but please stay. I need to talk to you.”

“Okay-dokey Alex-san.”

Alex turned to the paramedic “Hey Greg, will you look after Connor until I can send for him?”

“No problem. Now, please rest, doctor.”

Alex smiled a little and slept for the remainder of the ride.

          ++++

Dr. Moore let the memories washed over him. Connor was an enigma to him then, and still was. It was killing him inside to know to so little of the young man he had come to care for so deeply in such a short time.. Connor I can see in your eyes that your bear a heavy burden and I hope someday you will trust me enough to share it with me. With that thought he gently removed his hands from Connor’s forehead and leaned back waiting for the young man to wake.

While asleep Connor’s past came to plague him, random images of his memories showed themselves to him and he dreamed that he was when he was riding the ambulance, taking the wounded Alex to the hospital.

Connor watched as Alex slept and then looked at his clenchedhands, I’m sorry for lying to you Hakkai but I can’t tell you I killed those demons with these very hands. It’s better you know nothing about me, I don’t want you to get all worried like Gojyo does. He knows my secret and even if he doesn’t say anything I know he gets worried when I do my nightly patrols. I feel guilty for giving him that burden and I don’t want you to bear it, too.

                                                                                 ++++

At the waiting lounge…

Hugh waited impatiently for any news of Connor's surgery. Two hours have passed but still no word from the nurses or from Doctor Moore who oversaw the surgery. He remembered the kid being taken to the operating theater as one of the nurses lead him to a small waiting lounge. Before Dr. Moore went off to prepare, he told him that he could wait for Connor there and word would be sent out to him as soon as the surgery was over. So here he waited, feeling as helpless as he had all those years ago, when his family had been taken away from him. He hated it and vowed he won't allow himself to feel for another person ever again. So why was he having the same feelings for a person he only just met. But Connor wasn’t a random stranger to him, was he? Those dreams made him feel as though he was meeting an old friend.

The familiarity troubled him but he didn't want to dwell on the matter and tried to occupy his mind as he examined his surroundings. He was lucky it was still early, so the lounge, and moreover, the hospital was still quite deserted. The silence suited him. He hated crowds and noise in general and opted for his own company. The room was bare with only two large, black leather sofas adjacent to each other, a medium sized table at the center, a twenty four inch color TV on one of the walls and lastly a coffee vending machine near the entrance. His attention was caught by a small black backpack on the center table, which the doctor had left in his care. It was Connor's bag. Curiosity set in as he took it from the table back to the sofa. He debated whether or not to open it, when suddenly techno music started to play from within the bag. He realized that is must be Connor's cell phone ringing and someone was calling him, possibly looking for him. Without a second though he opened the bag and took the phone out.

It might be important or maybe somebody worried about him. He reasoned to himself as he glared at the phone, but he couldn’t fool himself as he didn’t want to know who might be calling the golden eyed young man.

Was it his girlfriend? He fought with the feelings of jealousy growing inside of him. Was he that pathetic being envious on a faceless nobody? Why was he feeling this possessiveness to a young man he’d only just meet? Was he losing his mind?

He shook his head to clear it, raise phone to his ear and gruffly said: “Hello!”

“You’re an hour late kid! What the hell happened did you, over slept again?! I swear if you don’t have a good excuse I’ll …” the voice trailed of.

“Hey! Wait just a darn cotton pickin’ minute, you’re not Connor! Who the hell are you and why the hell do you have his mobile phone?”

Something about the man’s voice grated on the blonde’s nerves and he retaliated.

“Shut up, stupid! Yes, I'm not the kid and if you just shut your trap I’ll tell you where he is! But before that, tell me who you are and your relationship to that brat?”

He heard the voice at the other line cursed softly.

“Okay prick, you win! Jake the name and I happen to be ‘that brat’s’ boss! Now you know, so answer my damn question and you’d better tell me the truth!”

The blond glared and shot back “Don’t shout at me I’m not deaf, nor am I senile! The names Hugh Masters, I got nothing to do with the brat but he seems to be into stupid heroics. Here I was minding my own business when this kid out of the blue just took a bullet aimed at me and so here I am waiting at the hospital for his operation to be over and done with, so that I can get on with my damn life!”

“The kid did what?” The voice on the phone was initially surprised but became agitated upon hearing the man’s harsh words.” You sound like a thankless bastard! Somebody just saved your life the least you can do is to sound a bit grateful!”

“I didn’t ask for his help! I don’t owe him anything!” Hugh snarled back.

“Oh really? You could have fooled me! If you owe him nothing, then why are you still there?” Jake asked succinctly.

Hugh grew silent.

“See, I was right, you do give a damn after all! If anything happens to him it’ll be your neck on the line! Anyway let’s stop this crap I am coming over so tell me where did you take him to?”

“Liberty Hospital at Central City”, was the terse reply.

“Liberty Hospital, got it! By the way you better have a thank you speech ready when the boy wakes up or I have force it out of you! Nobody, and I mean nobody, hurts the monkey and gets way with it, not on my watch buddy! You got all that? Now we understand each other completely it’s time for me to mosey over there. So see ya later alligator…!” and the call was abruptly cut off.

“In a while crocodile!” the blond man muttered and then vented his anger as he threw the mobile phone to the nearest seat. “The nerve of the man! Who gave him the right to threaten me like that?” All of the people who threatened him one way or the other found themselves behind bars and it seemed another person was added to the long list.

“Let him try!” a calculatingly evil smile blossom on his face. “He will realize too late that Hugh Masters wasn’t a man to take on lightly”.

“Oh really? You could’ve fooled me! If you don’t feel you owe him anything then why are you still there?”

He sat down slowly as the man’s words echoed in his mind and his anger died down as remembered those haunting golden eyes. He knew the other was right. He owed his life to the young man.

But something about the caller’s voice… No! That’s not reason at all, if truth was to be told he became unreasonable due to other man’s obvious familiarity with the brunet.

Yes, for the first time his life he felt jealousy towards another over a young man he barely knew. Why now? I am a cold hearted bastard with no room for feelings and emotions. I have lived most of my life without any ties to another person whatsoever, so why am I feeling this emptiness! Why?!

He looked up at the heavens for answers but as usual no answers came; only the deafening sound of silence greeted him. With a frustrated sigh he ran his hands through his tousled blond hair. He couldn’t fathom why he’d decided to stay and wait for the results of the surgery. He tried to tell himself that he just wanted to get answers about his dreams and not because of the haunting beauty of those golden eyes made him want to see them again..

“Damn, I could really use a pick-me-up right now.”

He didn’t usually crave a drink at this early hour; it only showed how agitated he was by the appearance of the boy. But alcohol was out of the question. He needed all his wits in working order when the doctor came back or when Connor’s bastard of an employer arrived from whatever hell hole he came from. And so the only viable option was coffee no matter how distasteful he found instant coffee. He stood up a bit unsteadily as one of his feet had fallen asleep. With a muttered curse he tried to bring the circulation back to his limbs. After that was done he made his way towards coffee vending machine and luckily enough it in a good working order. With a steaming coffee cup in hand he went back to his seat and waited once again.

to be continued on The Summoner's Chapter 4 B
Comments and suggestions please

Crack fic

2008-07-13T13:12:17Z

Title: Jealousy

Author: Harley55

Disclaimer: Saiyuki belongs to Minekura

Pairing: Sanzo x Goku

Rating: PG

Warnings: Crack fic, very OC Sanzo

Beta: Thank you for the help Pip!

Hello! The idea of this crazy story keep on bugging me for weeks finally I gave in and this crack story came out. This is my first try at humor so I'm a little nervous with it so please be gentle.

Title: Jealousy

By: Harley55

“Damn it! Where did that monkey go to this time?”

Sanzo stalked through the school's halls looking like a rhino on a rampage. Anyone with any common sense would have avoided him at all cost. If looks could kill the corridors would have been strewn with corpses.

Why is it that when you don’t want to see someone you can’t get rid of them but when you do, they’re nowhere to be found? I swear, the gods must hate me! He thought, annoyed.

He scanned his surroundings as he walked on by.

“Goku where in hell are you?” he called

He was about to give up when he felt a strong pull towards a door at the back of the building leading to a small little known garden. A smirk started to form on the blonde's lips.

So there you are bakasaru! I finally found you! Moron! The thought was almost vindictive.

Sanzo walked through the door onto the path that led to Goku's secret garden.

Once inside he saw Goku sitting under a large cherry blossom tree looking so forlorn and dejected that Sanzo became even more irritated because it looked so unlike his sunny-natured friend.

Sanzo felt very put-upon as he approached the unwary Goku and gave the poor boy a painful swat on the head.

“Itaa! Why did you do that, you droopy eyed jerk!” Goku said nursing his poor abused head.

So the blond with characteristic relish gave it to him straight.

“Serves you right, you bakasaru! I'm running around in circles looking but I couldn’t find hide nor hair of you. And now I find you relaxing under a shady tree! There’s no justice in the world!”

It wasn’t until Sanzo finished venting is wrath on poor Goku that he noticed there was a dark bruise on the young man's left cheek.

Who could have done this to his monkey? It wasn't there yesterday when he saw him at the movies. Somebody's going to pay dearly for this!

Putting a hold on his boiling temper Sanzo slowly lowered himself on the ground in front of Goku. With uncharacteristic gentleness he lifted Goku’s chin and turned his face to get a better view of the ugly mark on his monkey's face. The bruising was quite severe and would take at least a week to heal.

“Goku what happened? Who did this to you?”

The large, luminous golden eyes slowly filled up with unshed tears. Goku valiantly wiped the tears away and gave Sanzo a watery smile.

“It's nothing, Sanzo. Nobody did this to me. I just tripped inside the classroom and hit my face on a desk as I fell. Pretty lame!” he laughed, hollowly.

“You’re a really bad liar. Tell me the truth before I lose my temper again!”

Goku pouted but the blond didn't back down. The youth give up, let out a small sigh and started talking.

“Do you remember Desiree, Sanzo? She quite popular I think most of the guys at school have a crush on her.”

“Not me! Don’t categorize me together with those other peasants! “Sanzo thought to himself.

“Yeah, I remember she asked you to be her prom date two days ago and you accepted her invitation without consulting with me first!” He glared at Goku.

Yes, Sanzo remembered her alright! The bimbo had asked Goku to be her prom date right in front of him. His stupid monkey accepted her invitation with his usual sweet smile and the shameless creature had the gall to kiss Goku on the lips! The nerve of that peroxide blond hussy!

“Are you sure you want to know? You always tell me to shut up.” Goku ask his companion.

“Yeah, I want to know what had happened. Get on with it!”

“Okay, you grump! I won't bore you with the details, so I’ll keep it short. As you know we went out on a date yesterday but it was disaster and she blamed all her mishaps on me, saying I was unlucky. I tried to comfort her but it was no use. She slapped me. I hoped she’d listen to reason, so I tried to explain to her but she just got angrier. At that moment her older brother saw us and he punched me. He told me to leave his sister alone. I realized that neither of them would listen to reason, so I left.”

***

Goku look quite pensive, golden eyes clouded as recalled yesterday’s events in detail…

It was to be a wonderful day as he set of at their designated meeting place at an exclusive hair salon. She was having her hair done before their date. He was patiently waiting outside the salon when he heard an ear shattering scream and rushed inside, recognizing her voice. And what a scene! She was now sporting green hair as she continued screaming obscenities at the cowering hair stylist and anyone foolish enough to come near her. He realized something must have gone very wrong to get such a dreadful green color. To stop things from getting out of hand he stepped in and he tried to calm her down. Eventually he managed to placate her. Now that everyone was calm, the salon offered to correct the mistake, free of charge, with another much more experienced hair stylist.

Two hours later, with her blond hair back to its former glory, they had set for a much delayed lunch date at a nearby café suggested by Sanzo. It was a quaint place and you might call it romantic. The lunch date started well and they had talked, getting to know each other and enjoying one another’s company. He’d thought it was a start of a great relationship but after the meal disaster struck once again. They were heading towards the cinema when she started to complain of nausea and stomach ache. He asked her is she wanted to stop at a toilet or a chemist. She thought it would just go away so he bought tickets and they went into the cinema. A little after the movie started she excused herself. He started to get worried when she didn’t return after twenty and so minutes and he went to look for her. He was about to knock at the door of the women’s restroom when she came out reeking with the smell of vomit. She told him that the food at the café had been off and that she had food poisoning. Then she turned and hurried back into the washroom. He slipped next door to the chemist for medicine and a sports drink. When she returned, he was waiting for her and after a short while she felt better and decided they should continue to watch the movie.

After the movie ended he stood up and she tried to follow but she couldn’t. She was glued to the seat. In utter bewilderment he tried to pull her up but it was useless, she couldn't move at all and people started to notice them and whispering to each other. There was even some stifled laughter. To save her from further embarrassment he tried to pull harder and after a couple of tries he was successful in pulling her free but ripped the back of her skirt in the process. The people around them started to laugh, pointing at the now furious Desiree. Goku looked the chair in disbelief realizing that somebody had deliberately glued the chair but he had no idea why. He hurriedly lent her his jacket to cover the back of her skirt, she accepted it but without a word and left in an angry huff. He followed her as she started to cry and when he tried to comfort her, she slapped him hard across the face. Reeling from the sudden blow he looked at her and saw anger and loathing in her face.

“This is entirely your fault, Goku! It’s those damned golden eyes of yours that have caused this! You know what people say behind your back? That your golden eyes bring bad luck! My personal psychic warned me to stay away from you. But I didn’t heed her warnings and look what happened! Our prom date is off! I don't ever want to see you again!”

He tried to placate her but she shouted, “Keep away from me!”

Then, as luck would have it, one for her brothers was passing. Seeing her so distraught, he interposed himself and punched Goku in the face.

“You heard her! Stay away from my sister, you freak!” He shouted.

He gave up knowing none of them would listen to reason, so he apologized and left them in peace.

***

“She said everything was my fault. Is it true Sanzo? Am I a bearer of ill luck to the people around me? Please tell me the truth.”

Goku slowly lowered his head and looked sadly at his clenched hands. With his eyes downcast he missed the triumphant smirk on Sanzo’s face.

Good! My plan worked and Goku is dateless for the prom! He thought.

What Goku didn’t know was that Sanzo was partly responsible of all the mishaps the day before.

Sanzo recalled that day when that girl asked Goku to be her date to the prom and the jealousy he felt when his monkey accepted her invitation. He was livid with envy. Goku was his even if the monkey doesn't know and he won't give him up without a fight. Besides Desiree wasn't the right person for Goku. She was snobbish, selfish and a spoiled brat. His monkey was too good for her, he deserved someone better. He tried to devise a plan to stop the girl’s advances but, heaven help him, he couldn’t come up with a plan by himself. Luckily, in the nick of time, help came in a form of his two friends Hakkai and Gojyo who didn’t like the young woman any more than he did.. Between them they came up with plan. All that was left was to put it into action. The golden opportunity appeared when Goku asked for his advice about his weekend date. The three of them thought that now was the right time to act. Sanzo had been successful before in discouraging young women from taking an interest in Goku and he had no intention of giving up now. With the deadline getting nearer the plan was finalized and a trap was set.

Sunday came bright and early and Sanzo was ready. He had set everything up yesterday with his friends. First, he asked Gojyo to be at the salon and do whatever it took to make the girl loose her temper, for the she was well known for her tantrums. Next was the café. As it happened, Hakkai worked there and it was decided that he would mix laxatives with the girl’s meal. As for Sanzo, he planed to follow both of them to the movies to give the finishing blow to Goku's little love affair .He calculated the girl would be furious and blame the poor monkey. She’d dump Goku and he would be there to comfort the boy.

And so the moment arrived he watched with glee from the sidelines (in disguise of course) as the girl's hair turn green and her face flushed like an overripe tomato as she lost her temper. He didn’t know what Gojyo did but it certainly worked! Then he waited for them at the cafe as Hakkai mixed laxatives into the poor girl’s food. After lunch he followed them into the cinema and sat right behind them. He watched with relish as the girl fidgeted in her seat uncomfortably and then excused herself to go to the toilet. He saw Goku was worried after she didn't come back right away and went after her and he, of course, followed. He stood close enough behind Goku to hear their conversation clearly as the girl complained about rotten food at the cafe. That was a success as well and he left them as he sat back down and waited for their return. After a few minutes both of them returned to their old seats and Sanzo delivered his final blow as he brought out of his pocket a tube of strong hold industrial glue and emptied it onto the girl's seat. He waited until he was sure the glue has dried, and then left his seat before Goku noticed his presence. He stayed near the exit until he heard the loud laugher and he knew the plan worked and then left to celebrate with his co-conspirators.

***

It seemed that the plan worked too well. He hadn’t anticipated that Goku would get physically hurt in the process. That girl and her brother would pay for hurting his monkey! Sanzo would see to that!

But before that his important task was to comfort the monkey. He looked down at Goku’s bent head and his face softened as he gently caressed the boy’s soft hair. Then he forced his features to become expressionless as he started to speak.

“Baka! It wasn’t your fault! How could you know all those things would happen to her? You’re not a psychic for goodness sake! And don’t believe what she said! You don’t bring bad luck, that’s just superstitious nonsense! They’re just jealous of your eyes because they’re unique and beautiful! Listen to me: we’ve been friends for all these years and nothing terrible has happened to me. Take that from someone who knows you and ignore what random morons tell you!”

Goku lifted his luminous golden eyes, looking at Sanzo with a sad tremulous smile. It was so beautiful that it took Sanzo’s breath away.

“Thank you Sanzo, I'm feeling much better now.

But what am I to do? I have no date for the prom and it's too late to find one. It's only a week away.”

“Then don't go to the prom and come with me instead.” Sanzo suggested.

Goku look at him in confusion, looking so cute that Sanzo had to restrain himself from to kissing him on the spot.

“What do you mean go with you?”

“I mean …” Sanzo retrieved what looked like two theater tickets from his jacket.

“See these; my father got two complimentary tickets for a famous Broadway play. But he couldn't go, so he gave them to me. So instead of going to the prom why don't you come with me to watch the play?

I think you would enjoy it. I believe it's the one you have dying to see since its premier a couple of days ago. So what how about it? Would you go with me?” Sanzo voice hid the nervousness he felt as he tried to show indifference and nonchalance.

Before he could say more Goku gave him a hug and he let out a sigh of relief as he hugged the boy back. Within the embrace the brunet started talking.

“Yes! I love to come if you will have me. Thank you so much! You’re the best Sanzo!”

Goku looked at him in the eyes, a smile blossoming on his youthful face. Finally Goku was truly smiling, happy as he used to be.

Good! His monkey is back to his old cheerful self and that's the way he would remain! He promised himself that no one would ever take that smile away again.

Mission accomplished Sanzo disengaged himself reluctantly from the hug as he stood up.

“Come on monkey let's go! I think a dozen of burgers are waiting for you at our usual place.”

The blond bent a little and lent his hand to help the younger boy up.

It was you who first reached out your hand to me all those years ago and now it's my turn. I promise I will never let you go! He thought

“I'm not a monkey, Sanzo!” Goku’s words penetrated the haze as he took Sanzo's much larger hand in to his.

They look at their two intertwining hands and time stood still for a moment. A sudden loud crash brought them back to reality and realizing they were still holding hands quickly let go, blushing profusely and avoiding eye contact.

“Let's go!' Sanzo said as he started to walk towards the exit.

“Okay Sanzo!” Goku ran a little to catch up with the blond.

“Neh, Sanzo?”

“What now, Goku?”

“Did you just ask me on a date?”

“No, I didn’t baka!” Sanzo denied, his face beet red.

“I just took pity on you! I have an extra ticket and seeing what a fan you are of that play you are the most logical choice. That's the only reason and nothing else. You got that?”

“Okay! If you say so I believe you.” Goku didn't push the blond and gave him a warm smile and started walking ahead until he reached the school gates.

“Let's go Sanzo. I'm getting hungry!”

Sanzo grumbled, but none the less hurried towards the brunet.

They passed through the school gates and walked side by side, heading towards the setting sun.

The end

Please any comments and suggestions.

Through the rapist eyes

2008-07-08T01:23:53Z

Hello to all!

I would like to share an email from my older sister hoping it might save someone's life someday.

apologies for the spamming

Jim Paredes wrote:

Something that happened in Katipunan, Q.C.

Dear friends,

Many of you may not have heard of the incident that happened to a friend of my son last week at about 6:30 pm right in front of the thickly-populated area of BPI-Katipunan, near Shoppersville. She parked her car right in front of BPI to make a withdrawal and to do some grocery. As she was getting into her car after doing her chores, a man suddenly appeared beside her and tried to bully her into moving to the passenger seat. When she pressed her car

horn to call attention, he pushed her in the car and pinned her down with his elbow on her neck. It was a good thing that she had the presence of mind to continue to struggle and press on her car horn to catch attention (even if she had to use her foot to do this). Her assailant even tried to make people believe that it was a domestic matter by telling the crowd not to get involved as it was a "private matter". But with the onlookers multiplying by the second, her assailant finally gave up and ran. That was when she stood

up and shouted for help. Thank God the guy got caught and is now under police custody.

Last Saturday, during the inquest, she told me that what gave her the guts to fight her assailant was the article "THROUGH A RAPIST'S EYES" forwarded to our e-group about a week prior to her attack. I am re-forwarding the article (you can find it at the bottom of this e-mail) for everyone's benefit. Please tell your friends, family, and loved ones about this. It works. May I just add that to a certain extent, we have to get ourselves involved if we see violence being committed on anyone like calling on a security guard or a police officer even if it appears to be a domestic

matter. It seems that a lot of attackers use that tactic to get away with violence. Not many people know how to take care of themselves when faced with such a situation. Everyone, please be very, very careful.

THOUGHT THIS WAS GOOD INFO TO PASS ALONG...

FYI - Through a rapist's eyes!

A group of rapists and date rapists in prison were interviewed on what they look for in a potential victim and here are some interesting facts:

1] The first thing men look for in a potential victim is hairstyle. They are most likely to go after a woman w ith a ponytail, bun, braid or other hairstyle that can easily be grabbed. They are also likely to go after a woman with long hair. Women with short hair are not common targets.

2] The second thing men look for is clothing. They will look for women whose clothing is easy to remove quickly. Many of them carry scissors around to cut clothing.

3] They also look for women on their cell phone, searching through their purse or doing other activities while walking because they are off guard and can be easily overpowered.

4] The number one place women are abducted from/attacked at is a grocery store parking lot.

5] Number two are office parking lots/garages.

6] Number three are public restrooms.

7] The thing about these men is that they are looking to grab a woman and quickly move her to a second location where they don't have to worry about getting caught.

8] If you put up any kind of a fight at all, they get discouraged because it only takes a minute or two for them to realize that going after you isn't worth it because it will be time-consuming.

9] These men said they would not pick on women who have umbrellas, or other similar objects that can be used from a distance, in their hands.

10] Keys are not a deterrent because you have to get really close to the attacker to use them as a weapon. So, the idea is to convince these guys you're not worth it.

POINTS THAT WE SHOULD REMEMBER:

1] If someone is following behind you on a street or in a garage or with you in an elevator or stairwell, look them in the face and ask them a question, like 'what time is it', or make general small talk like 'can't believe it is so cold out here, we're in for a bad winter'. Now that you've seen their faces and could identify them in a line- up, you lose appeal as a target.

2] If someone is coming toward you, hold out your hands in front of you and yell 'Stop!' or 'Stay back!' Most of the rapists this man talked to said they'd leave a woman alone if she yelled or showed that she would not be afraid to fight back. Again, they are looking for an EASY target.

3] If you carry pepper spray (this instructor was a huge advocate of it and carries it with him wherever he goes,) yelling 'I HAVE PEPPER SPRAY!' and holding it out will be a deterrent.

4] If someone grabs you, you can't beat them with strength but you can do it by outsmarting them. If you are grabbed around the waist from behind, pinch the attacker either under the arm between the elbow and armpit or in the upper inner thigh - HARD. One woman in a class this guy taught told him she used the underarm pinch on a guy who was trying to date rape her and was so upset she broke through the skin and tore out muscle strands the guy needed

stitches. Try pinching yourself in those places as hard as you can stand it; it really hurts.

5] After the initial hit, always go for the groin. I know from a

particularly unfortunate experience that if you slap a guy's parts it is

extremely painful. You might think that you'll anger the guy and make him want to hurt you more, but the thing these rapists told our instructor is that they want a woman who will not cause him a lot of trouble. Start causing trouble, and he's out of there.

6] When the guy puts his hands up to you, grab his first two fingers and bend them back as far as possible with as much pressure pushing down on them as possible. The instructor did it to me without using much pressure, and I ended up on my knees and both knuckles cracked audibly.

7] Of course the things we always hear still apply. Always be aware of your surroundings, take someone with you if you can and if you see any odd behavior, don't dismiss it, go with your instincts. You may feel a little silly at the time, but you'd feel much worse if the guy really was trouble.

FINALLY, PLEASE REMEMBER THESE AS WELL ...

I know you are smart enough to know these pointers but there will be some time, when you will go "Hmm... I must remember that." After reading, forward it to someone you care about. Never hurts to be careful in this crazy world we live in.

1. Tip from Tae Kwon Do: The elbow is the strongest point on your body. If you are close enough to use it, do it.

2. Learned this from a tourist guide to New Orleans : If a robber asks for your wallet and/or purse, DO NOT HAND IT TO HIM. Toss it away from you...

chances are that he is more interested in your wallet and/or purse than you and he will go for the wallet and/or purse. RUN LIKE MAD IN THE OTHER DIRECTION!

3. If you are ever thrown into the trunk of a car: Kick out the back tail lights and stick your arm out the hole and start waving like crazy. The driver won't see you but everybody else will. This has saved lives.

4. Women have a tendency to get into their cars after shopping, eating, working, etc., and just sit (doing their checkbook, or making a list, etc.)

DON'T DO THIS!The predator will be watching you, and this is the perfect opportunity for him to get in on the passenger side, put a gun to your head, and tell you where to go. AS SOON AS YOU LOCK YOUR DOORS...LEAVE!

5. A few notes about getting into your car in a parking lot, or parking garage:

a. Be aware. Look around you. Look into your car, at the passenger side floor, and in the back seat.

b. If you are parked next to a big van, enter your car from the passenger door. Most serial killers attack their victims by pulling them into their vans while the women are attempting to get into their cars.

c. Look at the car parked on the driver's side of your vehicle, and the passenger side. If a male is sitting alone in the seat nearest your car, you may want to walk back into the mall, or work, and get a guard/policeman to walk you back out. IT IS ALWAYS BETTER TO BE SAFE THAN SORRY. (And better paranoid than dead.)

6. ALWAYS take the elevator instead of the stairs. (Stairwells are horrible places to be alone and the perfect crime spot).

7. If the predator has a gun and you are not under his control, ALWAYS RUN! The predator will only hit you (a running target) 4 in 100 times. And even then, it most likely WILL NOT be a vital organ. RUN!

8. As women, we are always trying to be sympathetic: STOP IT! It may get you raped, or killed. Ted Bundy, the serial killer, was a good-looking, well educated man, who ALWAYS played on the sympathies of unsuspecting women. He walked with a cane, or a limp, and often asked "for help" into his vehicle or with his vehicle, which is when he abducted his next victim.

I'd like you to forward this to all the women you know. It may save a life.

A candle is not dimmed by lighting another candle. I was going to send this to the ladies only, but guys, if you love your mothers, wives, sisters, daughters, etc., you may want to pass it onto them, as well.

Send this to any woman you know that may need to be reminded that the world we live in has a lot of craziness in it and it's better safe than sorry.

The Summoners Chapter Three

2008-06-19T00:42:12Z

The Summoners

Third Chapter

Author: Harley55

Disclaimer: Saiyuki belong to Minekura.

Pairing: Sanzo x Goku

Ratings: PG

Warnings: violence

Beta: Thank you so much Pip!

The Summoners

Third Chapter

Characters:

Connor Summers- Goku

Hugh Masters- Sanzo

Alexander Moore – Hakkai

2 years later

Dream…

Pain

His body was on fire with white hot pain. He screamed out in agony, asking for relief from the constant pressure. It felt as if he was being eaten alive from the inside and his mind was on the verge of breaking from the onslaught. He screamed.

Stop the pain!

Make it stop!

Slowly, he opened his eyes. Darkness greeted him. He felt himself drifting into nothingness where he knew he couldn’t escape his fate. He was about to succumb to despair when he heard someone screaming in anguish.

Sanzo! Please don't die!

Please don't leave me!

Without you I’ll be all alone!

You have to survive!

Sanzo… Live!

He turned towards the voice and suddenly an incredibly bright light appeared blinding him. He felt a presence beside him as his sight returned; he was face to face with a beautiful young man with haunting golden eyes brimming with tears. The young man was the last thing that he saw before he succumbed to the coming darkness once again…

***

The blond man woke from a truly dreadful nightmare. He groaned as he sat up and raised his hands to his aching temples.

“Damn it's that dream again!” he thought, trying to get his thoughts in order. “

Who the hell is he and why am I always dreaming about him?”

His nights had been like this for the past six years and the dreams left him disoriented and confused, some were incomprehensible and others were so vivid and so real that he could remember them days later. Each one was different but he knew that somehow they connected to one another. It was like watching a TV series with each episode unfolded every night before his eyes.

But that night the dream was even more intense and vivid than usual. It left him gasping for breath and bathed in cold sweat. Usually he remembered little of his dreams but he could remember last night’s from beginning to end, but what truly imprinted in his mind was the memory of the sad boy with golden eyes. He seemed so familiar; as if they’d met before.

But that’s impossible. If I ever meet him before I would have remembered. Who would forget those unique golden eyes?

Shaking the thought away, he chided himself. Now was not the time to mull over the intangible. He had to face the real world. Today was going to be busy; he had to prepare for an upcoming trial in the coming week. He also had to visit his young cousin at her school that afternoon for her show and tell. His Aunt Elizabeth volunteered him and he wasn’t pleased but could see no way to decline gracefully. Young Jenny needed an adult member of the family at her presentation that afternoon and he was it!

“Yeah, I need to face a whole day of mind numbing research to convict a criminal and then I have to go to my cousin’s school to face a group of rowdy kids, along with their simpering teachers and parents. Oh joy!” He grumbled sarcastically to himself.

He got out of bed a bit unsteadily. He had to hold onto the bedside table to steady himself until the dizziness disappeared. These brief spells has become a constant part of his life ever since the dreams had started haunting him. But last year the dizziness had become worse as the dreams gained in frequency. After a few minutes he’d gained enough equilibrium to walk over to his closet to choose his clothes. Then he headed for the bathroom. He went to the sink to brush his teeth and caught a glimpse of his reflection in the mirror. The image of a beautiful man with golden blond hair, troubled, sad, purple eyes on an almost delicate fair-skinned face met his eyes. He was tall and slender but nicely muscled, clearly defining his masculinity. His appearance had always been the bane of his life and he frowned at his image as he started to brush his teeth. When he was finished he started to wash his face as well. That done he just stood there by the sink lost in thought as he gazed at nothing in particular.

Something was about to happen, something big and his dreams are the portents to what was to come. He felt tense and on the edge like a tight spring waiting to be released. He felt as if he was losing himself as the golden-eyed boy invaded not only his nights but his waking hours as well. He couldn’t get him out of his mind. It must be those golden eyes that had haunted him every night for the last four years. His dreams showed him eyes that sometimes looked at him in pure adoration, sometimes filled with joy and excitement, sometimes in sorrow and anger. Golden pools brimming with unadulterated love and passion and the most recently of all, filled with pain and grief. It was becoming too much. Some thing had to give soon or he felt he’d go mad.

***

Hugh’s life six years ago was mundane, ordinary, colorless and downright boring. He was born to a wealthy family; his father was a famous lawyer and his mother, a celebrated painter. It was a wonderful partnership, a marriage of mind, heart and soul and soon the couple brought two beautiful children into the world. Lucia, his sister, was two years his senior. His father, Gregory, was known as the best lawyer in the district and due to his credentials he became the youngest appointed court judge in the state. And his mother, Diane, was equally well known as a landscape and portrait artist. Many famous people came to her studio to have their portraits drawn. Hugh and his sister had a wonderful childhood and although both their parents were busy there was always time for their children. His early days were filled love and warmth, like a dream you from which you never wish to wake. But all dreams end. Tragedy struck when his father’s car was hit by a speeding 10 wheeler truck on in the freeway. His parents and sister were in the car, returning from a PTA meeting at Lucia’s school. All three died instantly leaving him an orphan at a tender age of nine. The news of their untimely death came to him in the distraught form of his Aunt Elizabeth, his father’s older sister. Hot tears fell from his eyes as his mind and body started to become numb with cold. It was the first and last time he cried his heart out as he wailed his grief and anger to the heavens.

“Why! Why did you take away my family? Why? Daddy! Mommy! Lucia, don’t leave me behind! I’m all alone now! I want to die too! Please take me with you!”

Ever since that day Hugh became a changed person. He never laughed or smiled again. All his old companions watched him broken-heartedly as the warmth radiating from him was extinguished, leaving a thick, icy shell. His aunt offered a home for him but he declined, preferring to stay at his old home, cared for by his old nanny and housekeeper. His aunt conceded to the boy’s wish and let him be, although she kept a close but discrete eye on him. After she settled the estate she set out a plan that would ensures the he’d be financially comfortable until he reached eighteen years of age, then she would hand his inheritance back to him. However, after the young man graduated from high school at the age of fifteen, he decided to study at a different state and moved out of his old home. His aunt assumed that after taking the bar examinations he’d return home. But instead of going back to his old home he decided to live in a two bedroom apartment on the city center and never again set foot in his old house.

On the day he lost his family a piece of him died with them. He promised himself that he would never again love ever again anyone so deeply that their loss would cause the same anguish.

I don’t want to feel that pain all over again! I hate it!

I will never allow anybody in. It’s better to be alone and alone I shall stay.

And alone he stayed, living by himself for fifteen years. He studied political science for four years and then went to law school to follow his in father’s footsteps. All this time he never befriended anyone, preferring his own company. With all that free time he focus his mind on his studies, like his father, he garnered the top honors at both at law school and the bar examinations. His life was uneventful until the dreams started six years ago and slowly his life started to unravel at the seams, leaving him feeling sad, empty and lonely.

***

He was shaken from his stupor as a car horn blared on the street near his home. Coming to himself he realized he was still by the sink lost in thought. He admonished himself as common sense kicked into gear, chasing away dreams or nightmares. He needed to get back to his busy, waking life. He went to the shower and stripped down to take a bath. After a refreshing bath he felt more like his like his old grumpy self! He changed into his shirt and jeans and went to his sparse living room, which connected to his small kitchen. His living area was devoid of plants or personal touches like pictures or trophies. All it contained were a large leather sofa with two side chairs and the flat screen TV. He went to his equally bare kitchen to fetch himself a cup of coffee and he was ready to start his day as he grabbed his things and left at a run.

He decided to leave his car at home. It was a great day for a walk. The sky was clear, the breeze gentle and the trees started to shed their autumn leaves. Golden brown, red and orange leaves fell from the tree tops and carpeted the footpath at his feet. He continued his way down the busy street ignoring the stares he was attracting. He was too attractive for his own good and he often found himself in trouble when some people didn’t realize that ‘no’ meant ‘no’ and he had to make the point with his fist. He shook his head, focusing as he drew near the court archives.

But as soon a he turn into a corner there was a commotion. It seemed that some air headed girl had had her bag snatched and she was shouting bloody murder as the thief tried to make his getaway and was sprinting in Hugh’s direction.

Stupid girl, why can’t she watch over her things? He thought, contemptuously. It’s her own fault by not paying attention and now she expects someone to help her! Well it’s not going to be me! I have nothing to do with this and I’m not a knight in a shining armor. So let another stupid soul help her!

As if to mock him, help suddenly came out of nowhere as a young man appeared. He tackled the thief to the ground. He was of average height with long brown hair, tan skin and lithe build. Although he didn’t look it he was certainly strong, quite capable of grappling with the much bigger thief. After much struggling he was able to subdue him with a single hit to the other’s man gut. Hugh watched as the young man got up and a cop and the victim arrived on the scene. The brunette gave the stolen bag back to it owner and toward him as he started to walk away. Then he realized that the young man seemed very familiar. As he looked more carefully he gasped in surprise as he saw a pair of haunting golden eyes that he recognized from his dreams.

Connor felt the scrutiny and lifted his to a meet a pair of shocked violet eyes. Time stood still for a moment as they finally met face to face. The younger man couldn't believe that after all the hard work he did to prevent this meeting the gods conspired against him. For the past for two years he had been watching over the blond man from the shadows. He has been careful to hide his presence from the blond for fear that if they met he might break his vow not to bind Sanzo's fate with his own damned existence. He’d vowed never to intrude again on his sun’s life but seeing him like this he had to fight the urge to break down and tell the older man about their past lives together.

“We finally meet again Sanzo.” Connor murmured as he broke eye contact. The blonde’s scrutiny made him self conscious and he felt like that young kid, freed from his rock prison by Sanzo.

A strange compulsion hit him and he felt the urged to look once again into his former guardian’s face. He lifted his eyes once again and in the nick of time he saw a man trying to shoot the blond from behind. He had no time to warn Sanzo, he just threw him to one side and stood in his place. He felt a momentary pain in his left arm as the bullet hit and lodged but he didn’t allow himself to dwell on it. He had to protect his sun. Then, without warning he lunged forward slamming his fist into the face of the gunman as he simultaneously grabbed the hand wielding the gun with his other hand, squeezing painfully until it was released and fell clattering to the street. Seeing his chance he kicked the gun out of reach as he struck the assailant hard in the chest. With the attacker still reeling from the blow, Connor followed it up with a punch to the stomach. His enemy was about to lose consciousness and Connor hastened the process with a powerful head butt and the gunman fainted away.

Meanwhile, Hugh watched in avid fascination as the young man pushed him to safety and took the bullet for him. A stranger had saved his life and was bleeding from the bullet wound meant for him. He just stood there still as a statue in state of shock but he was spurred into action when he saw the young man leaving without saying a word.

Seeing that Sanzo was no longer in danger, Connor decided to leave before somebody started to notice him and ask him awkward questions. He was about to make a hasty retreat when a hand grabbed his uninjured right shoulder. He looked back as he tried to break himself loose from the hold but he stilled as he met those sad but beautiful violet eyes.

“Sanzo?” The name escaped Connor’s lips, unintentionally.

The blond man stiffened as the heard again the name and voice that plagued him every night in his dreams. His hand fell limply on his side as he watched the brunette’s face, shock evident on his pale face.

That voice and face…it’s him! He just called me Sanzo so there’s no doubt about it! He is the boy from my dreams! He thought.

Hugh just stood there his eyes searched brunet’s face and then it traveled down on his body and toward his injured arm. Seeing the blood it brought him back to his senses. The boy would probably bleed to death or get lead poisoning if the injury wasn’t treated immediately. If the kid died then Sanzo would never get the answers he so desperately wanted. Keeping the boy alive was the first priority and the questions could be answered later. Having come up with a course of action he set it in motion as he met those haunting golden eyes with a steely gaze of his own.

“Baka! Who are calling Sanzo? My name’s Hugh, so remember it! Do you have a death wish or something? I don’t remember asking you to save my life! Why on Earth did you step in like that? You could have been killed!”

Connor couldn’t to anything but to stare at the blond man dumbly.

It sounds like Sanzo alright… He thought. His sun had finally returned to him.

Connor wanted to both laugh and cry but he controlled himself. He wasn’t a kid anymore and he had to prove it to the man in front of him.

He met the blond man’s eyes and gave him a warm apologetic smile.

“I could hardly permit him to kill you! I have my own standards of morality and it includes intervening to save the lives of others if I get the chance. You can hardly expect me to change that just to suit your pride, now can you?”

If the blond was surprised by the young man’s statement he didn’t show it. He just slid his hand under the young man’s right arm and started to pull him out of the crowd.

“Suit yourself. I don’t care! But I’m taking you to the hospital. You need to have that bullet removed. It was meant for me and I won’t have your death on my conscience!”

Connor panicked. If they went to a hospital the nurses would start asking questions and they’d find out that he was a runaway. That would not be good. He needed to change the blonde’s mind quickly, before it was too late.

“No need San… no, I mean Hugh. As you can see I’m quite alright. You don’t need to take me to the hospital. I’m okay…seeing? Honest!”

“No can do kid, you’re coming with me to get that wound treated and that’s final!”

With that the older man pulled the kid towards a waiting taxi, forced him inside and off they went.

What to do! What to do!

Connor was in a state of blind panic when he remembered a promise made before by an old friend two months ago:

“Connor thanks for your help. I owe you my life. If you ever in need just don’t hesitate to call me I promise to help you if you are in a bind.”

“Okay, if you are so determined to help me please take me to Liberty’s City Memorial Hospital. I know a good doctor there. His name is Dr. Alex Moore. He can help me, so you need not worry about me.” Goku was determined.

“Who’s worried? I just don’t wasn’t your death on my conscience!”

“Hey! You heard him driver! Take us to Liberty City Memorial Hospital and be quick about it! I want this ordeal to be over and done with!”

Hugh was surprised that the boy was so quiet. He expected him to be talkative, like he was in his dreams, but the young man was being contrary. It was then he noticed that Connor was pale and that he was holding his injured left arm.

I’m so stupid! The blond thought to himself as he gently pulled the young man to rest against him. He maneuvered Connor in such as way that the injured arm was within his reach.

“You are such a baka! Why didn’t you tell me that your arm was hurting you?”

He was surprised by his own soft tone as he gently removed the torn left sleeve of Connor’s shirt. He inspected the injury as he took a clean handkerchief from his pocket, then he tied it carefully above the bullet wound making a tourniquet to lessen the bleeding until they reached the hospital.

While he did it the brunet just looked at him with his large golden eyes. Surprise and wonder swirling in those twin pools of molten gold.

Hugh felt his face heating up under that unblinking gaze. Never in his life has he felt this self conscious and it shock him to the core that the boy could undo him with just a look.

After he finished with the tourniquet he gently removed his hands from Connor’s arm and tried to look anywhere but those damn eyes. Eventually Connor spoke.

“Thank you! You don’t need to do that. The responsibility was mine. I decided to interfere. You don’t need to trouble yourself on my account. I do appreciate it, though.”

The young man gave him a warm, weak smile and all Hugh could do was to stare back at a loss for words to say. They just stared at each other and would have continued to do so if they hadn’t arrived at their destination.

With blushing cheeks Hugh paid the bill and helped Connor out of the cab and they went directly through the emergency room entrance. Inside the emergency room they were immediately attended to by a trauma nurse.

“This boy has been shot I need you to call a certain Doctor Moore immediately! And tell him a friend of his…”

And Connor interrupted him apologetically saying. “Sorry for the trouble but I truly need to see him. Just tell him, please, that Connor needs his help.”

The nurse nodded as she sent someone to send for Dr. Moore and led Connor to a bed on the ward. Hugh followed them.

So his name is Connor, I finally have a name to go with that face and voice.

He took a seat beside Connor’s bed waiting for the doctor to come. Thankfully they didn’t have long to wait. A dark haired man wearing a white lab coat came charging into the room. The doctor took one look at them and hurried over. He was tall and slender with short black hair, fair skin and green eyes, which, at the moment, were dark with worry as he set his eyes on the injured young man.

“Connor! What happen to you? I hurried here when they told me your name!”

The young man just gave an apologetic look.

“Sorry about this Alex but I’m afraid I need your help. I just got myself shot…”

But the doctor interrupted. “Say no more just leave everything to me. I meant what I said.”

He smiled gently at the younger man.

“You can always rely on me; the world would be a colder, darker place without you.”

to be continued

Please any comments or suggestions.

Re:An Eye Opener

2008-06-05T15:45:47Z

Good day everyone! I thought I might share somethings I learned from from school and work with hopes that it will be helpful to you and to your family someday.

General Overview of Common Refractive Errors

Myopia ( Nearsightedness)- is a condition of the eye associated with difficulty on focusing at distant objects. This usually happens when you have a long eyeball or the refractive powers of both the cornea and crystalline lens are to strong that images fall in front of the retina resulting an enlarge blurred image. Myopia begins at childhood and usually progresses or worsens until adulthood.

*Myopia in children- is the most common refractive error seen in children. If you notice your child squinting to see distant objects or sits to close to the television it's possible your child might be myopic.

Treatment – Minus lenses( minifying lenses)
Myopia can corrected with the use of Minus Lenses on prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses or undergoing Lasik and PRK.
Hyperopia ( Farsightedness) – is a condition of eye associated with difficulty on focusing at near objects. This usually happens when you a short eyeball or the refractive power of both cornea and crystalline lens are too weak that images fall behind the retina resulting to minified blurred image.
Hyperopia in children – If the child squints,rubs his eyes and has difficulty reading at near then it might be a possible he needs reading glasses.

Treatment – Plus lenses ( magnifying lenses)
Hyperopia can be corrected with the use of Plus Lenses on prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses.
Astigmatism- is a condition due to unequal curvature of the cornea producing two images instead of one which the patient complaints as blurred images.

Astigmatism in children- same as in myopia but of head tilting or unusual posturing.

Treatment- Cylindrical lenses

Astigmatism-can be corrected with the use of Cylindrical Lenses on prescription eyeglasses and Toric contact lenses.

Presbyopia- is a condition due to the hardening of the crystalline lens due to aging. The patient usually have difficulty in performing near task starting usually at 40 yrs old at the earliest and worsens as the patients grows older.
Treatment – Plus lenses ( magnifying lenses)
Presbyopia can be corrected with use of Plus Lenses on prescription eyeglasses.

Complication of Uncorrected Refractive Errors.

Amblyopia or lazy eye- is a condition of poor vision in an eye that did not develop normal sight during early childhood. After the age of four years, the development of the part of the brain that processes vision is almost complete. If the brain has not received clear images from the weak eye, it would be difficult to improve the vision in this eye after the brain is completely developed producing the lazy eye.

Lazy eye is commonly caused by myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism, large differences in refractive power between the two eyes, squint or obstruction of vision by droopy eyelid, cataract or other lesions.

Treatment

To correct amblyopia, the child must be forced to use the lazy eye. This is usually done by patching or covering the good eye, often for weeks or months. If the child also requires spectacles, he must wear it all the time.

The basis of patching is to allow the lazy eye to be used and for better prognosis the patching must be done preferably before 4 years old .If the treatment is done after 4 then the success rate will be pretty low so the earlier the detection the better the outcome will be.

I hope it's helpful and please don't hesitate to ask questions.

harley55 @ 2008-05-27T13:10:00

2008-05-27T05:13:33Z

Title: Last Night

Author: me

Disclaimer: Saiyuki belong to M.K.

Pairing: Sanzo x Goku

Ratings: PG

Beta: Thank you very much Pip!

A short 3x9 fic hope you will like it.

Title: Last Night

Author: me

“Come on Sanzo it will be lots fun and more importantly it’s about time that you got laid. No, I think you really need the release!” The redheaded man with vermilion eyes was trying to convince his blond friend to come to join him in night of carnal pleasures in the city's night district.

“Do you want to die right now, Gojyo?” Amethyst eyes narrowed calculatingly.

“Because I'm more than willing to put a bullet through your sorry excuse for a brain! I'm not your friend. You’re my servant! You got that, ero-kappa?”

But the redhead wasn't deterred by the blond’s harsh words. He just laughed it off.

“But Sanzo I won our bet and you’ve got to do what I want you to do.

Listen to me, you got to lighten up and enjoy life for once, you prick! Anyway, I think you will like what I have in mind. No real man will say no to night of delicious pleasures and I think I know someone who can introduce you to a night of pure unadulterated fun.”

“Just shut up! Do you think I'm still a virgin? I lost it before I finished high school you dimwit, pea brain, sorry excuse of a human being!”

“Okay? When was the last time you got laid? The kappa asked devilishly.

The blond flushed and looked away without meeting his eyes.

“It was on my senior year at the university.” Sanzo answered him quietly

Gojyo, enjoying his friend’s discomfort pretended he didn't hear.

“What did you say? I didn’t hear you!” Gojyo ask innocently cupping one of his ears.

“It was at the senior’s bash after graduation almost three years ago. I drank too much and somebody suggested doing it and I was too wasted to say no! Are you happy now?”

“What? Three years? No wonder you’re nuts. We need to find you someone right now!”

Gojyo got a hold on Sanzo's jacket and started to drag him.

“You are coming with me and I won’t take no for an answer!”

Sanzo just shrugged and gave up the fight. It was just one night. How bad could it be?

“Let me go ero-kappa, I not a child, I can walk on my own!” the blond pushed the kappa’s hands off his denim jacket.

“Okay! Sanzo-sama let's be gone to paradise, then!” Gojyo bowed, fluttering his eyelashes, outrageously.

“I just want you to know I'm only doing this because I got nothing better to do.” Replied Sanzo, grumpily.

Sanzo froze for a moment remembering the reason why he was going along Gojyo's stupid idea in the first place. He just wanted to forget for a moment the vision of a certain golden eyed trainee, named Goku, who had been constantly on his mind from the moment they first met, months ago. It shocked him that in such a short time the young man became an integral part of his life and that imagining a life without him seem unthinkable. His pride, however, wouldn’t allow him to admit it. He was deeply troubled by his attraction; it made him feel weak and insecure. He’d never felt that way before and he didn’t like it.

“Ground control to Major Sanzo!”The kappa's words brought the blond to reality.

The redhead look at him with unveiled curiosity as it was the first time as he had seen his friend out of sorts.

“Keep your antenna to yourself, cockroach, it you want to live to sixty. Anyway before we begin the night’s activities I need a drink to get me in the mood. So take me to the nearest bar, or the deals off.”

“OK, fine by me. Nothing beats a pick me up to lower your inhibitions. I don’t want you scaring the girls away. That would ruin my reputation.”

“And what reputation would that be, pray tell?” the blond drawled.

“I’m insulted, my friend, you didn’t know I am the modern Casanova, a true blue lady’s man!”

Looking at Sanzo’s skeptical face the kappa sighed and rolled his eyes.

“I’ll prove it you, just wait and see! Come on let’s go. I know a bar in the red light district.”

When they arrived, it was filled with people enjoying themselves. Several people looked their way, both of them getting admiring glances from both sexes. Sanzo ignored them all while Gojyo gave the beautiful ladies his most charming smiles as they both muscled there way in towards the bar. As soon as they sat down the bartender came over to them calling the Gojyo’s name familiarly. Looking at the blond’s surprised face; the redhead gave a smirk and an “I told you so” look. Ignoring the kappa, Sanzo ordered a bottle of whiskey and started drinking. Gojyo was surprised, his friend was drinking like there was no tomorrow. He realized something was really bothering the other man and he was looking for answers in the bottom of a bottle. Gojyo’s plans were rapidly gurgling down the drain. With the amount of alcohol the blond is drinking he wasn’t going to be able to leave this place unless someone helped him walk. The redhead gave a sigh of defeat and ordered his own. As the night progressed the blond became more and more drunk. The kappa became worried and decided to call for help. He only knew of one person who could help, so Gojyo went out and made the call.

“Hello Goku? It’s Gojyo can you please come over? It’s Sanzo… He’s drunk and you know how difficult he is at times like this…thanks man, I really owe you! We’re at…”

Gojyo gave Goku, Sanzo’s young assistant, directions and after finishing the call he hurriedly went back to the bar to keep the blond out of trouble until help arrived. Help in form of a beautiful, golden eyed, young man with deep brown hair who could calm the blond man with just a look or a touch. Both Sanzo and Goku had a strange bond which had showed itself at their first meeting. It was as if they were pieces of a jigsaw puzzle, they fit so well together. They complimented each other’s strengths, while covering each other weaknesses. It was, you might say, a match made heaven, but the blond was emotionally clueless. Goku obviously adored him but Sanzo didn’t seem to realize it.

Sanzo was slumped on the bar when Gojyo returned and the kappa dragged his hand through his hair, sighing in frustration.

“God! Sanzo what the hell are you thinking? What could possibly be bothering you enough to provoke this? It’s so unlike you!”

Sanzo, however, was oblivious so further recriminations were pointless. He went back to his seat and asked for another drink and the bar man, the soul of discretion, asked no questions.

“Thanks, Charley!”

“No problem. Things like this are always happening, one way or the other. So I’m use to it.”

“Gojyo! Good! I finally found you!”

The redhead turned around as he heard is name being called by a very familiar voice.

Goku was standing before him, his hair wind blown, eyes wide and luminous with worry, cheeks rosy red and his pink lips partly open as he panted from his exertions. The young man looked good enough to eat, wearing partially buttoned shirt exposing his tanned chest and tight faded blue jeans. Gojyo stared, but reminded himself that the young man was off limits. Even of the blond wasn’t verbal with his feelings it was quite obvious in his actions, to Gojyo at the least.

The brunet was in range when he saw his boss slump form at the bar. He hurriedly went to the blond’s side to check up on him and when he realized he was just drunk his eyes challenged the kappa.

“What the hell happened here?” He asked.

Gojyo raised his hands in defeat. “The hell if I know! We were just having a night out when your boss just ordered a large bottle of whiskey and started chugging at it like a mad man! Don’t ask me, ask him. If it makes you feel any better he just destroyed my night’s plans”

“What plans?” Goku asked, curiosity quite evident in his eyes making him look so damn cute that the kappa almost told him about the bet.

“It was nothing important. Don’t work you poor brains too much or they might explode!”

The young man was about to retaliate in kind, when Gojyo forestalled him.

“Look sorry, I couldn’t help myself let’s just forget it and concentrate our heads on how to the deal with Sanzo.”

The golden eyed young man looked so contrite as he looked at the blond that Gojyo had to fight the urged to kiss him senseless.

“It okay Gojyo I’ve got it all covered. All we need to do is call a cab to take Sanzo to the nearest of his hotels. It’s out of the question to take back to his penthouse. It’s to far up and I can’t hold him that long. Before I left, I called ahead so that they could get him room on the ground floor. So it’s all set all we need to do is get him there”

Goku took Sanzo’s wallet from his jacket to pay his bill and then with, the assistance of the redhead, he was able to take the blond to a waiting taxi cab. The ride was eventful and as the cab stopped at the back entrance of the hotel Goku told Gojyo he could manage Sanzo by himself and that the redhead didn’t need to help to take the blond to his room.

“All right, I leave Sanzo in your capable hands, but please don’t hesitate to call me if he is being a pain.”

The brunette looked at him in surprise and smile sweetly. “Thank you I will make sure to remember that. Good night!”

Goku carefully helped Sanzo as they walked slowly to the entrance.

The redhead look at their retreating backs “No thank you, Goku. Sanzo’s lucky to have someone like you watch over him.” he said under his breath and then he shook his head and smirked to himself. “Let’s go; the night is still young!” he ordered the driver as they went on their way.

Goku was able to lead Sanzo to the reserved room without any further mishaps. But as they stood outside the door Goku realized it would be difficult to open the door as he his two hands we’re occupied in holding his companion in place. After a bit of struggling he was able to open the door. Goku found the light and set it at a dim illumination as not to disturb the drunken man. Then he lowered Sanzo onto the waiting bed.

He removed the jacket first and undid some of the buttons on Sanzo’s shirt. But as he started to straighten his back, two strong hands reached for his shoulders and with sudden force he was pulled roughly to the hard body beneath him. Goku gasped in surprise at the contact and his eyes meet a set of smoldering violet ones. The blond smirked as he cradled the brunette's cheek in one hand.

“Are you the one Gojyo hired for me?” The blond asked a husky voice that sent chills down Goku’s spine. “I have to hand in to him, the has good taste! Shall we start the nights activities?” His hand started to trail down Goku’s back.

The brunet stiffened at the contact and broke out of Sanzo’s embrace, eyes wide and cheeks burning. Goku was speechless. This couldn’t be happening to him! Secretly, he often fantasized that Sanzo wanted him.

He’d been in love with his boss ever since their first meeting and the feeling became stronger each day. But he doubted that Sanzo was capable of returning his love, so he contented himself with just being at his side as long as he was needed.

Goku was bemused but thought that maybe he might have a chance after all. “No! Wait he called me a whore. Could that be the plan that Gojyo was talking about earlier?” He thought.

“Are you playing hard to get? Good! I love a challenge!” Sanzo purred, seductively.

The young man’s thoughts we’re interrupted as Sanzo pulled Goku to him and claimed his lips in a passionate kiss. The blond bit Goku’s lower lip and the youth gasped. Sanzo licked the abused flesh and started to tease at it. Goku moaned, wanting more, giving in to his passion as he wrapped his arms around Sanzo’s neck, pulling him closer as the kiss deepened, becoming heated and wild. They broke up after a few seconds for much needed air.

“Why not just give in and play the role? If I don’t take this chance it will never happen again. Just this once I want to pretend that he’s mine and I’m his and after that I’ll be content.” Goku thought.

He leaned toward the blond “I’m sorry sir, you misunderstood me earlier. I wasn’t being coy I was waiting for payment.”

“Of course! Just a moment…” Sanzo looked for his wallet but its whereabouts eluded his alcohol-befuddled mind. He groped in his shirt and took out a beautiful necklace with a large amethyst in a shape of a tear drop. It was Sanzo’s most precious possession, inherited from his late father.

“I’m sorry, I seem to have misplaced my wallet, will this do?”

Goku was speechless for the second time that night. Sanzo took silence as consent and gently hung the chain about Goku neck.

“It suites you.” Said the blond as he claimed the young man’s bruised lips in to another mind blowing kiss.

“Now, where were we?” Goku whispered against Sanzo’s lips, his hand sliding down Sanzo’s back.

The morning after:

Goku awoke in the cradle of Sanzo's arms. He looked in wonder at the beautiful man beside him and he suddenly blushed as he remembered the night before. He leaned in and kissed Sanzo’s lips lightly.

“Thank you, Sanzo, thank you for everything.” He smiled sadly as he stood up. He bathed, dressed and went back to the still sleeping Sanzo. He carefully arranged the blond’s things and he was about to remove the necklace when he remembered Sanzo’s words: “It suits you better than me. I want you keep it always with you.”

Goku clasped it to his chest and decided to hold onto it until he could tell Sanzo the truth. Then he then left the hotel with a heavy heart.

Monday came and by late afternoon Sanzo noticed that Goku was acting weird. He seemed to be avoiding him and was nervous when Sanzo was around. And he couldn’t forget those soulful golden eyes looking back at him sadly whenever Goku looked his way. It worried him that Goku was so troubled and he realized that he missed his company. The day seemed dull and incomplete when Goku wasn’t around, although he’d rather die than admit that to anyone. The young man’s unusual behavior continued for a week until Sanzo simply couldn’t take it anymore and tried to confront him.

It was raining hard that afternoon and Sanzo decided enough was enough and that he’d bring the old Goku back by hook or by crook. With that in mind Sanzo went to look for him. He soon found the young man alone at the company’s extensive library.

“So there you are! I’ve been looking all over the place for you!”

Goku looked up in surprise and then averted his eyes.

“I’m sorry, is there a problem, Sir?”

“Of course, there is! What’s wrong, Goku?” Sanzo asked, not sure if he was angry or concerned.

“You’ve have been acting strangely all week and it’s pissing me off! What’s the matter?”

Goku paled, and then steeled himself to answer coldly. “There is nothing wrong. If you will excuse me, I have a job to do.”

He turned to leave, but strong hands caught at his shirt front, stopping him from leaving.

“No, you are not going anywhere, baka! Not until you tell me what’s wrong!”

Goku struggled to get away he almost succeeded, when suddenly Sanzo pulled hard, ripping the front of Goku’s shirt. The amethyst necklace glowed against Goku’s golden skin. Sanzo looked at it and then back at Goku.

“I recently gave that necklace to someone. How do you come to have it?”

Sanzo was taken by surprise and his mind was full of questions. Then it dawned on him.

“No! It couldn’t have been you that night?!”

Tears started to trickle down Goku’s face, as he slowly removed the necklace and held it against his heart. He met Sanzo’s furious gaze bravely.

“I’m sorry Sanzo; please believe me, I didn’t mean to deceive you. That night you drunk too much and Gojyo got worried and called for my help. When I arrived you were completely out of it, so I decided to take you the nearest hotel. We managed to whisk you from the bar to the waiting taxi cab. When we arrived I told Gojyo I could manage by myself, so he left us. I dragged you to your room and put you to bed.

Goku paused, swallowed the lump on his throat, and then continued.

“To make a long story short, you thought I was the whore Gojyo hired for you. You started kissing me and touching me and I was weak and allowed it. I know I could have easily stopped you but I’m so in love with you and the temptation was too great. I’ve loved you since I first set eyes on you. I know it no excuse and I’m horrified at myself.” He drew breath before going on. “So I pretended to be your whore and you gave me the necklace as payment for my services. We made love all night long and I can honestly say that it was the best night of my life. I planned to leave the necklace with you the following morning but I couldn’t. I realize now that it was my conscience forcing me to tell you the truth about that night. I felt so guilty. That’s why I avoided you. I was so ashamed, I couldn’t face you. I don’t expect you to forgive me but please believe me when I say that I am truly sorry!”

Sanzo was bereft of speech and Goku spoke softly for one last time. “Now that the truth is out I don’t expect you to want me around anymore and so I tender my resignation effective immediately. Thank you, Sanzo, for everything. I’m sorry.”

Then he ran out of the room and out of Sanzo’s life.

When Goku got back to his own desk at Sanzo’s office he was still blinded by tears. He opened the upper drawer and took out his resignation letter and put it on Sanzo’s desk. Then he got his bag and coat from his chair and set out into the rain.

An hour later:

It was still raining and Goku was sitting on a swing in a deserted children’s playground at a nearby park. He’d been sitting there, under the deluge for almost hour feeling completely numb. He cried in silence until he heard a familiar voice behind him.

“Goku at long last I finally found you! You can be such an idiot, sometimes! I’ve been so worried.”

Goku looked up at him, shocked. Sanzo was every bit as drenched as Goku was himself.

“You are such a baka! Are you trying make yourself ill? Come on, let’s go out of this damn rain.”

Sanzo moved towards him, his face expressionless.

“Sanzo, I….” The young man looked uncertainly at the blond and started to say something but was interrupted by the older man.

“No, just shut up!”

Sanzo got a hold of his wet shirt and hauled the young man toward him, kissing him with a passion he never knew he possessed. Goku stiffened, and then he melted into the blond’s arms, responding with equal passion and need. They slowly broke part but still stayed so close that their bodies still touched.

The blond lifted the brunet’s face towards him.

“Now listen and listen well, because I wouldn’t be caught dead ever saying something this cheesy again. I don’t think you noticed but you weren’t the only one grappling with his feelings. From the moment we met I’ve also been feeling things I’ve never felt before. You’ve been driving me crazy! I realized I was in love with you and it was scaring me shitless! I tried to fight it and that why I’ve been unkind to you, but it didn’t work. You’re too sweet, too beautiful to ignore and when you left me I felt empty and alone. I had to find you and tell you before I truly lost you.

The blond took a deep breath and look Goku squarely on the eye and said.

“Goku, please stay with me for I’m truly in…” he didn’t finish because Goku kissed him.

“I understand. You don’t need say anything. I‘ll never leave you. I love you so much! Leaving you was like losing a piece of myself! And before I forget again, I need to return this to you.”

Goku held up the amethyst necklace and Sanzo took it and then clasped it back about Goku’s slender neck.

“As I said, it suits you and I want you to have it. Now, we have far better things to do than talk!” he said.

“Such as?” Goku asked teasingly.

The blond didn’t say anything, he just smiled and then he leaned in to seal Goku’s lips with a mind blowing kiss. They kissed in the rain, not even noticing the cold, for there was enough love in their hearts to keep them warm for the rest of their lives.

The end

Any comments or suggestions will be greatly appreciated..

Thanks for the time and take care.

The Summoners Chapter 2

2008-05-06T23:55:30Z

Title: The Summoners

Chapter 2

Author: me

Disclaimer: Saiyuki belong to M.K.

Pairing: ST x Goku / Sanzo x Goku(in the near future)

Ratings: PG 13

Summary: Connor finally meets the person behind the voice and the truth of his past was revealed.

Warnings: m/m kissing

Beta: Thanks for the help Pip!

You are such a GEM!

Here is the second chapter I hope you will like it too.

Please read and enjoy!

Title: The Summoners

Chapter 2

Bang!

A loud gunshot, followed by eerie silence. The demon watch in surprise as the boy just stood there still as a statue as nothing has happened. The tension was so intense you can almost taste it.. It was as if the Earth was gathering her power. Then all hell broke lose!

It started with sound like no other. A deep rumbling issued from deep within the bowels of the earth. The ground started shaking violently as cracks started to form underneath the boy's feet. Dark whirling clouds rolled overhead as the winds began to pick up speed on the wings of the coming storm.

“Hey boss what's going on?” The three other demons returned hurriedly as the ground started to shake violently. But before the elder could answer there was a powerful tremor, followed by an equally violent explosion.

They all fell to their knees and watched in amazement as ash and lava gushed from the ground beneath where the boy had stood. He was nowhere to be found in the dense smoke, so they thought he had been caught in the explosion as the column of ash climbed higher and higher.

Meanwhile….

***

Connor woke-up and found himself drifting in the sea in total darkness. He shivered as a cool breeze caressed his skin and he realized he was quite naked. As his eyes became accustomed to the absence of light he decided to get moving and leave this horrible place. He stood up and found to his relief that he wasn't in deep water but also that he was a long way from the beach.

He pulled strongly towards the shore but found he was swimming against a strong undertow. By the time he reached the beach he was completely exhausted.

He dragged his shivering body onto the sand with a sigh of relief and looked about him. Then he turned back to the darkened sea and wondered aloud.

“Where am I?” The last memory he was of being chased by a gang of demons who trapped him in a dead-end. He’d thought he was done for; when he heard a voice that had given him hope. A gun had appeared in his hand and he’d raised it to his temple and pulled the trigger. There had been no pain, only darkness.

The boy pulled his knees towards his body and wrapped his arms around them. Trying to comfort himself. He looked at the sea forlornly and asked “Am I dead? Is this hell? Am I the only one in this place?”

He suddenly felt a familiar presence standing behind him as a shirt was placed carefully on his shoulders by warm and gentle hands. He gratefully put the shirt on and buttoned it up as he heard the voice again speaking from behind him.

“No you are not dead! As I told you before, we are one and the same. If you die, I die too. Why would I allow you to die, when I wish to live?” The deep voice said was full of conviction.

Connor turned around in shock as he looked up and was amazed at what he saw. A young man was standing before him. He was about eighteen years old, with a lithe compact body but what took him by surprise was how alike they were. The Other looked like an older version of himself but had beautiful long, dark brown hair that reach his butt, slender, elongated ears, slitted but warm, catlike, golden eyes and there was a circular tattoo on his belly.

The boy met the slitted eyes bravely and asked hesitantly, “If we are the same being why do you look like a demon?”

Although a little taken aback by the question the Other replied, his eyes twinkling with mirth.

“Hmm… a good question but no. I, or rather we, are not demons although we share similar characteristics with them. We were born from a rock enriched by the earth's aura. We are not a god, a demon, nor human but a unique being. We are the Seiten Taisei Son Goku. What you see before you is our true form, you look human right now, due to the seal I placed upon myself before I slept. I used a special technique that would allow me to temporarily seal away all my powers and memories. Only temporarily because I knew there would come a time when I would be greatly needed.

“And you ask about this place? This is your subconscious. As you can see it’s still quite empty because you are newly born, without any memories of your own. Normally it would take more than a year to fill this place up. But you don't have to worry about that. Soon we will become a complete whole and this place will be brimming with life.”

Seeing the boy’s uncertainty and fear the Sage dropped to his knees so that he could meet Connor’s eyes. He placed his hands gently on the boy's soft hair and caressed it tenderly as he hugged him. The boy closed his eyes, enjoying the touch. His past flashed before his eyes as he remembered being found by a soldier seeking shelter in the cave. He’d slept for a long time and was like a new born human baby with no memory of his past. The soldier took pity on him, gave him his name and brought him to an orphanage. But life hadn’t been easy for him. People were superstitious and blamed all of their misfortunes on Connor's golden eyes. He’d been transferred from one orphanage to the next, until on his fifth transfer he decided to run away. From there’d blundered into the group of demons who had chased him and led to his meeting with the Seiten Taisei.

Seiten Taisei put his hand underneath the boy's chin, lifting it so he could meet his eyes.

“Are you ready to bear the world's troubles on your shoulders?” he asks the boy seriously.

“I wanted so much to give you longer to consider, but recent events don’t give us that luxury. The world needs us now more than ever and if we delay any longer I'm afraid it will be too late for the human race. I need your help. You are the vessel and while I am a spirit divided we are weak but together we are the strongest of them all, strong enough to protect our loved ones, our friends, even the Earth, our mother.”

“You need me?” Connor asked him, shocked .The Sage just nodded and gave him a smile and the boy couldn't help but respond to.

He was finally home.

“Okay, I understand. Let’s do it! We’ll never be lonely again!” He looked into the other’s eyes, saw his warmth and he realized he’d made the right decision.

Seiten Taisei leaned forward rested his hands on the boy's shoulder's and whispered “Thank you!” Then he captured the boy's lips in a sweet kiss as they started to glow. The brightness intensified as they slowly merged together and finally there was an explosion of light as they merged completely and the darkness was overcame their light.

***

After the awe-inspiring explosion the earth started to quiet and the smoke and ash started to dissipate. It was at the very moment that the demons felt a powerful presence. A being with very strong chi.

“That’s Son Goku's chi. could it be he survived that explosion?”

“No that’s impossible even for him! No one could survive that blast”

“It’s possible; don’t forget we are talking of the Great Sage here!”

The demons would have continued with their argument, when suddenly the strong wind died down and they could hear lone footsteps that stopped right behind them. All of them turn around to face the newcomer together and what a sight that meets them. It was the Great Sage in the flesh and blood..

They couldn't believe their eyes. The sage was devoid of injuries from the explosion the only sign he had been caught in the explosion was his lack of clothing. He was almost naked except for the burnt and tattered remains of his trousers. He hasn't aged at all, as time has no sovereignty over such as he, but appeared as the eighteen year old youth he had seemed all those years ago.

“What shall we do boss?”

“We will kill him of course he is at most vulnerable right now. His power is not at its full strength. Now is the time to take him down once and for all!”

The demon leader came forward and leered at Seiten Taisei, saying:

“Well, well, what do we have here? I was right all along, wasn’t I? You look quite delicious without your clothing and I’d love to taste every inch of you. It's such a shame I have to kill you now or you’ll become to strong for me to stop you. Get ready to die!”

At their leader's signal all three demons summoned their weapons and attacked simultaneously from all sides. Goku waited, relaxed, for their attack. One of the braver demons attacked first thrusting his spear at the Great Sage but Goku caught and disarmed him in one swift movement as he gave the unfortunate demon a vicious kick to the gut. While the demon was reeling form the blow Goku struck him with his own weapon, straight to the heart killing him instantly. The remaining demons saw that some teamwork was in order. But Goku, sensing their ill will crouched down and punched the earth beneath him and suddenly a long jagged fissure appeared in the asphalt, swallowing the other two demons alive into burning graves of molten rock. Only their agonized cries were heard as the opening closed itself again. Goku just stood there watching the ground when from behind a chi blast was fired at him. He evaded the attack just at the nick of time and finally he faced his final adversary.

The wind started to howl again as the two faced off. No words were spoken as they summoned their weapons and started the fight for that they believed in. The attack was fast as Goku pummeled his enemy with his staff. The clash of weapons grunts and groans could be heard as two powerful enemies fought one other to the death. Both of them are skilled in the martial arts, but only the strongest would survive. Suddenly the demon stumbled as his body crumpled before Goku's onslaught. Seizing his chance Goku leapt, striking the demon's right shoulder a punishing blow. The demon staggered backwards as Goku released his staff, readying himself for the finishing blow.

Goku glowed as he called forth all the powers of the earth to come to his aid. Cupping his hands together and closing his eyes in concentration, he summoned a huge golden ball of pure energy that the like of which the Earth had never seen before. Opening his eyes he released the chi toward his enemy who tried to stop it, but couldn’t and died where he stood.

Finally the battle was fought and won. The Sage closed his eyes as he reverted back to being an ordinary 14 year old boy. Connor looked almost the same, except his eyes, which now looked too old for one so young. His eyes seemed to see everything and are clear as water. Connor looked troubled as he remembered his past and the battle, moments before. Tears rolled down his face as he wept for the suffering Goku endured and he also cried for the loss of his, or rather, Connor's innocence. The Earth, feeling his sadness tried to cheer him up. It stops raining and first rays of sunrise began peeking through the clouds. The boy stood in awe at the beauty of it all and he smiled as the earth showed there is always sunshine after the rain. As long as we stay alive there is always hope for a better world.

The boy looked into the distance as he eyes darkened, becoming slitted, and his voice deepened.

“I am finally back Ukoku Sanzo and this time I will stop you for good!

***

4 years in the future

A blond man was seen getting out of his apartment building. Sensing somebody watching him, he turned around but no one was there. He shrugged and went to his car.

He was wrong to dismiss his intuition, however. Goku was watching from above. “At long last I finally find you Sanzo but this time around you will not be fighting. I’m strong enough to protect you and the others. So rest for now, Sanzo and live a normal and happy life, free from the chains that bind my misfortunes to your karma.”

“Arigato …. Sanzo … Sayonara”

To be continued…

Please any comments or suggestions it will be greatly appreciated.

my little offering

2008-04-30T12:16:56Z

Title: The Summoners

By: harley55

Pairing:3x9

Rating: PG

Disclaimer: Don’t own Saiyuki or Persona 3

The idea of this story came to my mind while playing “PERSONA 3.

I hope some of you will like it!

Title: The Summoners

By: harley55

Beta: thanks Pip and please cheer up

Chapter 1 The Beginning

The rain was falling in torrents and the streets, deserted at this late hour. Everyone wanted to escape the dismal weather, except one. A young boy about 14 yrs old was running through the empty streets at dead of night. He was running at top speed and from time to time looked at back over his shoulder .He was obviously being chased by someone or something and judging from his expression he was scared out of his wits.

The boy had been running for almost an hour now, and he was soaked from head to his toe. He was in state of blind panic that he was running aimlessly, his only thought, to escape his pursuers.

“Come on feet don’t fail me now! You could do better than this Connor! You’ve got to keep on running or they will catch up!” The words chased one another through his head.

Finally, however, in spite of his courage, he faced a dark passage way and a dead end. There was only one way out and that was the way he’d entered.

He fell on his knees in utter defeat and as if to mock him it started to rain harder. He tried to wipe the rain his face but it was useless. He was deathly cold and soaked to the skin. His body started to shake as bile rose from the pit of his stomach to his dry throat. The desire to throw up was strong but the need to get away was stronger. Connor tried to get up but he couldn’t will his body to move. It felt so heavy that he could barely move an inch. He had reached his limit and he couldn’t go any further.

Tears ran down his face and mingled with the falling rain. He was cold and alone and at the end of the road. He closed his eyes and in the darkness and he waited for the end.

He didn’t have long to wait that long as he heard running footsteps that stopped as they reached him. Connor slowly opened his eyes to face his adversaries.

He realized that the rain had slowed down and the cloud parted to show an eerily large full moon.

He slowly stood up his eyes never leaving his four would-be killers. He could feel cold sweat running on his spine as he realized that they were not normal humans but demons that prowled in the night looking for human victims. He could easily recognize them, with their characteristic strange skin tone, elongated ears, sharps claws and slit, catlike pupils. It was due to this menace that the government imposed a midnight curfew but to no effect, as it didn’t lessen the deaths due to demon attacks in the city.

The four came forward, towering over him and before he had time to think he was being effortlessly pinned against the wall by the two of them. He struggled, but he was no match for them.

The other two just stood there with evil smirks on their faces. The leader of the group stepped forward.

“Well... well my boy we finally caught with you! You gave us such a chase; you will pay for that with your life! And now are ready to die under this pale moonlight?”

Something in him reacted with the demons words and he felt anger rise within him.

“What do you want from me? I’m just a helpless kid. What threat am I to you?” the boy lifted his chin, bravely.

“A harmless little boy you say!” One of the demons replied incredulously. “You are far from being harmless. You are a creature of legend, Seiten Taisei Son Goku! You were a heretic born of the earth , with powers equaling or surpassing that of a god!”

“I don’t know what you are talking about. My name is not Goku and I am just a kid living an ordinary life. I’m not the one you’re looking for. If I were this creature do you think I would allow you to catch me like this?”

“You’re him, I’m sure of it!” the leader told him vehemently. “You killed Gyumaoh and forced all demons into hiding. We were shunned in the human world and so we stayed hidden and waited for our chance to exact our vengeance on you and the humanity. I don’t know where you went, but after the death of Genjyo Sanzo you suddenly disappeared from the face of the earth. Your chi couldn’t be found by either your friends or your foes.

“Hundreds of years have gone by and now it’s our time to wreak havoc on your world!. Finally, a year ago we felt a chi that we thought was lost forever. It was Son Goku’s chi and it led us to you my dear boy.”

The youth looked back at the demon, stunned. He had no memory earlier than a year ago. All he knew was that he was found in a dense jungle fast asleep and when he regained consciousness he had no memory at all.

“I thinks it all add up. You are one and the same! And luck in our side the Great Sage has yet to awaken from his long sleep and now it’s time to kill you and no one will be able to stop us! It’s our world now!”

“Any last words before you die?”

“Wait boss!” the one behind the leader butt in. “Can’t you see he is quiet pretty? Can we play with first a bit before we kill him?” the younger demon leered at him.

The elder captured his chin tilted it to get a better look of his face.

“You are right! Look as his eyes, they are beautiful but only I will enjoy him!” the demon said breathlessly, enchanted by the deep golden pools shimmering under the moon light.

Connor jerked his face from the demon’s grasp. He decided not to die in this manner and he started to fight his captors. But the leader suddenly punched him in the stomach and as he stopped struggling, the leader pinned him with his body.

“You’re not going anywhere, my beauty,” he whispered. “We’re going have some fun together and I promise you it will be the last thing you will remember.”

He released the boy, as he seemed to have quietened down and ordered his men to leave them alone and watch the alley for intruders.

Connor fought back a groan of pain as he tried to find a way to escape his fate. He prayed for someone to come to and save him.

“Please God, please help me!” the boy quietly prayed in his mind.

The boy was in sheer terror as he watched the demon, knowing his intent. He felt himself shut down waiting in the darkness for then inevitable.

But in the darkness of his mind, a strong and clear voice called to him.

“The Gods don’t save anyone! Only you can save yourself” The boy looked up, shocked.

“Who are you? Why are you in my head? How do I save myself? I’m just a kid? What can I do to defeat a gang of demons?”

“Who am I you ask?” The voice replied “I’m you. Or rather, you as you were a long time ago, before I sealed myself”

“You are me?” The boy asked in confusion.

“I’ll explain everything when we have time!” the voice said in exasperation. “Trust me and do what I say! Any indecision on your part and everything I fought for will be lost!”

A gun appeared out of nowhere in to Connor’s right hand.

“That is an evoker. It unseals our powers and memories. To use it you must raise the gun to your head and pull the trigger!”

“If I pull the trigger won’t I die?” the boy asks in a hush voice.

“No you won’t! Why would I kill myself after fighting to live all this years! You are part of my soul, if one of us dies the other dies too! The evoker will destroy the barrier in our very core. It will unleash our dormant powers and past memories making as one as we we’re suppose to be, a one complete whole. Will you trust me?” The voice asked.

Connor nodded his head in assent and deep in his heart he believed the voice was telling the truth. He gave his trust whole heartedly to his older other self. The darkness fade way as the boy’s mind was clear out of fear and doubt.

The demon watched in surprise as the boy regained himself.

Connor stood slowly, his eyes hidden behind his long bangs. In his right hand was a silver gun that the shocked demon was certain hadn’t been there moments before.. Connor slowly raised the gun to his temple and with a small smile on his lips pulled the trigger.

BANG!

To be continued.

Any comment or suggestions please?