Act 298
as i said over in 
doumekiwatanuki, this is a very long chapter, but i wanted to do something where doumeki gets to really help to prove he's serious. and this is the first thing that came to mind.
so here it is,
Act 298
Author: seizansha
Disclaimer: It’s CLAMP’s universe, I’m only playing in it.
Shout outs: thanks to everyone at
little_details and especially
starr234 and
alicetheowl for inspiring scenes.
Warning: this sucker’s long. 13 scenes. 14 pages....... you were warned, remember that.
Scene1
Mokona bouncing form bed to bed woke them up, it always did. They started giggling as they sat up, stopping as they turned to their window and saw the sun was just starting to rise.
“Hurry, something’s wrong with Watanuki!” Mokona called out, still bouncing between beds before heading across the hall.
They hopped out of bed and followed. “Daddy! Daddy, are you okay?”
They jumped at finding him huddled in the middle of the bed; shivering violently and moaning in his sleep, sweat almost pouring down his face. “Daddy...?” their voices quivered in concern and confusion. Slowly climbing on the bed, they jumped as he instantly sat up, coughing so loud and so hard they could only sit back in shock. Absently wiping his mouth on his sleeve, he slumped over just as suddenly. He was shaking badly as they covered him up again, looking at each other.
“What do we do?” one asked.
The other just shrugged. “What’s wrong with Daddy?”
Mokona jumped in, landing on his shoulder. Looking worried, the little guy reached for his face and instantly snapped his hand away. “He’s burning up,” turning to find them almost to tears, he added “We need-”
“Mommy!” they almost cried out.
The pork-bun just started floating up before turning away from them, eyes opening with a strong projector light shooting out, an image of Yuko standing among shelves of books slowly appearing. “My, my, is something wro-” she stopped as their side became clear. “Oh dear, are you two alright?”
They both nodded, “But what’s wrong with Daddy Mommy?”
She smiled softly at them, “Daddy’s gotten really sick.”
“Really fast.” Mokona added, “He wasn’t like this yesterday.”
Yuko only nodded, “He need to see a doctor sweeties. And since I’m not there, you need to call someone else.”
They hung their heads only the snap back up, turning to each other. “Papa!”
Yuko quirked an eye, “So he’s back... but he’s not there?”
Turning to Mokona, they said it in unison, “That boy is so stubborn.”
“But then, I suppose this time he had good reason to be...” she muttered before turning back to the girls. “You need to call Papa sweeties, so he can come and help take care of Daddy.”
Hopping off the bed, they called, “Papa left his number on the fridge!” as they ran out.
Yuko only smiled softly as she turned back to her former servant. A look that could almost be motherly crossed her face, “It’s unfortunate, but it is hitsuzen.” that one word seemed to rouse him, blinking blurry eyes at a fading image, Yuko could only smirk, tapping her chin, “If only Doumeki sees it.”
He chalked it up to the fever and fell asleep.
One got the phone as the other got the number. Holding it between their heads, they squirmed as they listened to it ring and ring.
A gruff voice mumbled, “Hello.”
Both sides of the call suddenly jumped. “Papa, hurry! Daddy’s sick Papa and we don’t know what’s wrong! Hurry, hurry!”
He was instantly awake, trying to calm them down. “Girls, it’ll be okay. You two go keep an eye on him and I’ll be there as soon as I can.”
“Hurry Papa.” they added just before hanging up.
He was digging around for a phonebook and trying to pull his pajamas off.
Somehow he knew it was bad.
Scene 2
He was practically dragging him down the hallway. He just didn’t have the energy to lift his feet. Somehow he was grateful he still had the keys. It wasn’t until they walked into the apartment that he finally started taunting him. “You should be glad I let them come along. The vaccine should help keep us from catching it.”
He started toward the bedrooms when he raised his head, “No... put me onthecouch,” he mumbled.
“Are you sure?” he asked as he turned them to it.
Trying to nod, his head just fell, “They like to play nurse...” he mumbled as he sat, slumping over and shivering badly.
He quickly turned to the closet, pulling out all the blankets and, leaving him in his coat, started bundling him up in them. He couldn’t help the small smirk at him muttering about having to rely on him all over again, cursing his luck for catching pneumonia... barely a month after he came back.
The pork-bun appeared out of nowhere, landing on his shoulder. “Pneumonia.”
He nodded, turning to it. “I still need to get the medicine, so keep and eye on the baka.”
Pulling the prescription notes from his pocket, he froze as he shifted, “They... cuddle... whenthey’re... scared... you takethebed...” he muttered, staring in his direction before nodding off.
He just stood there in shock until Mokona bonked him on the head.
He just watched as he went to the door. “I’ll be back as soon as I can.”
“Don’t worry, Mokona will take good care of him,” he answered as Doumeki turned while opening the door.
That hard glare made him cringe.
He didn’t more until the door closed, he heard this footsteps start down the hall. Turning back to the couch, he quickly hopped over. Landing by his chin, the closest thing to a worried look crossed his face before he barely started floating, calling up Yuko.
“So how’s my dear boy?” Yuko’s voice softly came across, the image clearing to show her dressed in elegant robes, lounging on the edge of a giant fountain. “You moved him at least.”
“Doumeki-kun and Maru-chan and Moro-chan took him to the doctor. Watanuki-kun as pneumonia, everyone else is fine. They got shots,” he answered, eyes turning to him as they slid closed.
“Vaccinated, Doumeki’s just as focused as ever.” she added with a soft smile, “So where is everyone?”
“Daddy decided the girls had to go to school and Papa agreed since the doctor said he’d be sleeping more than anything. Papa’s gone to get the medicine and some clothes.”
“Some clothes?”
He tried to nod without breaking the connection, “Watanuki told him to take the bed.”
She smiled, “Hmm, seems like he’s warming up to him. Or is he wearing him down?”
“The girls are drawing them together,” he answered knowingly.
Her smile turned mischievous. “Just one of the reasons I left my girls with Watanuki-chan,” she chuckled as he snorted. “So how are they taking it?”
Those nubs started tallying air, “Moro and Maru like it when Papa comes but know Daddy’s still upset, so they don’t ask about him much. Doumeki’s usually here before or after school and comes on the weekends only if they ask him to.” he reached over, patting his chin, “And Watanuki plays nice when he’s around but...”
Yuko shifted, leaning forward, almost as if she could poke through the projection like a window. “A broken heart is hard to fix. Even when it’s put back together, the scars are still there, the pain still lingers.” She sat up with a concerned look, “Let’s hope our hard work doesn’t go to waste,” her gaze turned to another behind Soel before the connection was ended.
Scene 3
He woke up to find him sitting on the coffee table, pulling away and picking up a glass of water. “Come on. The doctor said as soon as possible.”
He sighed as he tried to sit up. Feeling exhausted after just getting his elbows under him, he’d just let sleep back in... if only Doumeki would let him. “Take your medicine first,” that gruff voice rumbled with the command.
Trying to glare at him, he almost rolled off the couch as a violent coughing fit started. He jumped - or he would have if he wasn’t coughing so hard - as he felt his hand supporting him, rubbing his back, patting him. He did actually fall into his arms when it stopped, losing what little strength he had just coughing so much.
Gently rolling him back onto the couch, he couldn’t hide his concern, couldn’t help remembering... Taking the pharmacist’s advice, he turned to the table and started crushing the one tablet between the spoons for the other two. A rustling behind him made him turn, finding him trying to roll to him, his gaze on the glass of water. A calming hand on his leg stopped him before he added the powder, stirring it in. Slipping one hand under his neck, he realized just how hot he was; he’d need to keep an eye on it, make sure he was drinking something. A tiny smile at such a cool touch showed he was waking as he slowly lifted his head, helping him take the medicines. He practically had to wake him up between each one.
Knock, knock.
Made him jump, him snort.
The pipe fox spirit practically dragged Mokona out of the kitchen as he stared at the door.
Knock, knock.
“Not that door,” Mokona answered as it hopped up on his head, turning him toward an armoire across the room. “That door.”
He’d never really thought about the furniture in their apartment, all he really noticed was he had the entire place furnished Western-style. So seeing a large cabinet by the wall he assumed it had a TV in it. He just realized it was near the right end of the couch, to one side of the kitchen door. The TV was on a low set of shelves behind him.
A soft cooing made him turn back, finding him turning to it and trying to pry his eyes open as the fox spirit curled around his head. “Comein.” he mumbled just as another knock sounded.
“It’s okay, it’s help.” Mokona said, turning his head back to the cabinet.
Narrowing his eyes, he slowly turned to the cabinet. Opening the doors, he had to admit he was surprised. Rows of statues - gods and other spirits - incense burners and talismans were neatly arranged inside. He suddenly laughed at himself; with everything they’d been though in high school, why should he be surprised Watanuki has a shrine in his home.
“Kimihiro-kun,” and older man’s voice started as one of the statues began to glow, a ghost-like presence forming beside him, “I’m sure you’ve sensed the commotion growing at the base of Mount- oh,” he stopped as his body solidified, taking in the situation.
He appeared to be forty-some, casually dressed in a blue shirt and khakis, his hair tied back in a short ponytail. Stepping closer, he sat on the edge of the couch, “What happened?” he asked, placing one hand on his forehead.
Mokona suddenly bounce off his head, landing on this man’s shoulder. “He’s got pneumonia Hiruko-san.”
“Pneumonia, hey,” Hiruko turned to the pork-bun before turning to Watanuki, “So he’s the one.”
He suddenly remembered the teahouse.
“You just get better kid; I’ll take care of things, get the word out.” Hiruko said with a gentle smile, softly patting his leg before standing. “Let us know if you need any help.”
Watanuki tried to smile and nod, “I will.”
He came to stand beside him again. “Don’t worry about the twins, Kishi will pick them up.” he smiled knowingly as he turned to the altar, “Take care of him.” he started fading out as the statue started glowing again.
Scene 4
He still couldn’t believe it.
He was in the one place he’d returned to Tokyo for.
In the worst possible situation.
After he was sure Watanuki would stay asleep - threats of bodily harm and the fox spirit growling keeping the pork-bun in check - he’d picked up his bag and headed for the bedroom.
One step in stopped him.
He’d been dreaming about this even before he’d left. Being in his bed was what brought him back, what drove him forward, kept him trying to prove he was serious, he wouldn’t run away again.
But the dreams always included him.
He’d be there... but he wouldn’t.
Tearing his gaze away, he calmly walked over to the dresser, placing his bag down beside it before turning to leave.
His scent would still be there... even though he probably washes them weekly at least.
He found himself crossing the room, sitting by the head of the bed. He had to find out... so, with shaky hands, he slowly took hold of the pillow, raising it to his face. Couldn’t help smiling at the flowery detergent scent... soap and musk and... something else, mysterious.... mystical. It reminded him of so many things... made him long for more. Hugging the pillow tight, he wrapped himself in the scents, getting lost in the memories he wanted to make.
“Daddy, Daddy how are you feeling? Are you okay, do you need anything Daddy?” snapped him back to reality.
Scene 5
A bump in the night woke him up.
He tried to hold still when he heard the muffled coughing, a quick check showed they were still asleep. Suddenly grateful one had kicked the covers off, he carefully shifted each of them, making Mokona peek over pink hair to look at him, worried. He only nodded once before carefully slipping out of the bed, heading toward the door.
He was slumped on the floor by the other side of the bathroom door, his hands flat on the floor, elbows bending him closer and closer to it with each cough. Kneeling behind him, he just noticed the damp washcloth between his knees. Picking it up and holding it gently to his mouth, he started rubbing his back. Jumping slightly as both his hands covered his, he clasped his shoulder, trying to hold him up, keep him still.
Both shaky hands pulling his slowly down from his mouth, he practically collapsed forward. He barely caught him before he cracked his head. He leaned him back against him at his heavy panting. “Come on idiot, calm down.” he mumbled on his earn rubbing his chest. His head lulling back on his left shoulder, his face turning to his neck, his hot panting against his ear only made his face flush too. Trying to focus on his quickening breaths, he started whispering, “Calm down. Just breathe. Calm down. Relax. Breathe.” he kept repeating slowly, timing it to his own.
He stopped rubbing his chest as he felt his whole body relax, his breathing even out. Trying to move to pick him up, he froze at the soft sigh against his neck. “Shizuka,” he hummed happily.
Even though he knew... he couldn’t help taking it to heart.
Scene 6
“Come on Papa, it’s not that hard.”
“Yeah, and we’ll help you with everything.”
He tried to laugh at his half-hearted smile, that scared twinge in his eyes, but it turned into another coughing fit.
Spitting out the gunk he finally started coughing up, he smiled at all four faces watching over him. (Mokona had disappeared somewhere.) “Go on, they’ve been helping since Yuko’s. They can do it, all you have to do is the cutting and chopping.”
“Daddy’s still teaching us that part.” they nodded.
Casting him an evil smirk, he almost laughed again as Doumeki stood, “You do know how to use a knife, don’t you?”
“You’re just lucky you’re sick.”
He smiled as his girls took both hands and started tugging him to the kitchen. “You’re just lucky Kishi’s been cooking both meals so far.”
He let the chopping and giggles lull him to sleep.
Scene 7
He was not going to take advantage of the situation.
Scene 8
The cool touch to his face made him groan. He slowly pried his eyes open to find he was in the tub, half full of cold water, ice cubes floating everywhere.
“Papa, what’s...” one’s sleepy voice started.
“... wrong with Daddy?” the other’s finished.
“Nothing’s wrong, he’s in the bathroom,” he answered.
Suddenly realizing their voices seemed muffled; he turned to, thankfully, find the door closed. “Just go back to bed,” he could almost hear the smile, “I’ll be back when I’m done helping Daddy.”
The soft footsteps made him turn back to the water.
He wasn’t sure why he was glad he still had his pajama pants on.
Or why there were little Mokona’s all over them.
Scene 9
He wasn’t sure how he was gonna do this. He’d put it off as long as he could. Until Watanuki realized it.
Trying to maneuver three basket loads into the living room, he had to stop himself from just dropping them when he heard him coughing hard again. Forcing himself to stay calm, he smirked as he remembered this morning’s rant.
‘Would you stop with the coddling! The fever finally broke, it’s getting easier to breath and I’m not cou-’
He’d had one of his longest fits yet.
Setting the baskets down on the other side of the coffee table, he knelt beside them as he tried to sit up. “Let me help...” he started, falling right back onto the couch.
He smirked, getting a glare back, “Just tell me who’s it is, where it goes. I can fold laundry.”
He sighed, “There’s not much to worry about, haven’t you noticed yet, they share everything. Hell, they even trade beds in the middle of the night sometimes.”
He nodded as he started folding. “So they always take turns?”
“Never in any order, the only time they keep track is when we walk to school.” he turned to the table, “They do have different likes and dislikes though.”
“But they love housework,” he smirked.
“Only ‘cause they love helping me with it,” he pointed at the book on the table. “Moro chose that one.”
He chuckled, “So she reads fantasy books.”
“Strange, I know. But she thinks they’re funny.”
“And Maru?”
“She likes adventure stories. They ask about our old jobs a lot too.”
He’d picked up a simple white dress, shaking it out just as Watanuki reached for it. Before he knew it, he was handing it over, watching as he draped it over his knees. “It’s Moro’s, Maru’s is the black one. These dresses are a few of the things they don’t share.”
He just nodded as he kept folding, realizing where the towels went, thinking. “So their toys?”
“Shared... though they have stopped buying everything in pairs lately.”
“Their powers?”
“Powers...” he mumbled sleepily, “Don’t know, they don’t do much, but it’s always together.”
“They’re inseparable at school, so they probably have the same friends,” only got him a nod.
Loading the folded clothes back in the baskets, he asked, “Do they always do their hair like that?”
He yawned, “Not always... sometimes they leave it down.”
He nodded as he took the towels in the kitchen. Coming back for the rest, he smiled at finding him sleeping. Turning to the hall, he stopped at his words.
“Maru had blue hair.”
Scene 10
He was starting to wonder if the fever was back.
He kept overhearing Watanuki talking to someone; one-sided conversations, he never heard any replies. He’d chalked it us to the pipe-fox, but Watanuki convinced it to go with the twins again - it had been three weeks and his breathing kept improving as the coughing started going away. But when he came in it stopped, he never saw or heard anything.
It wasn’t until he’d caught the girls and even the pork-bun doing it that he finally asked.
“What’s going on?” he’d sat on the coffee table as he took his textbooks away.
“Hey,” Watanuki growled, trying to reach for them. “I’ve fallen too far behind already, give’m back!”
He smiled inside at Watanuki cringing at his glare. “Wha-what are you talking about?”
“Who are all of you talking to? Why can’t I see or hear them?”
He only narrowed his eyes at the condescending look he was giving him. “If you hadn’t noticed moron, I severed the whole eye-bond thing two years ago! As for who; his name is Shikibu, he’s almost 1000 years old and terrified of you and your abilities so you can’t see or hear him and he disappears when he senses you coming. I met him before I even looked into this apartment, he helps me with all the other souls that stay in this world. He pops in and out of here like a visiting grandpa; he plays with the girls and gossips with Mokona.”
He turned away, muttering. “Guess that could explain why I haven’t heard a name.”
Watanuki sat up and turned to him, trying to get his books back. Suddenly realizing he was practically hugging him, he jumped back.
He didn’t miss the slight blush. “He’s not hurting anyone, so why would I try to get rid of him?”
He sighed, “That’s what I’ve been trying to tell him since you reappeared. It’s taken this long to get him to stay in the apartment, it’ll probably take three times as long ‘til he’ll let you see or hear him.”
He quirked an eye, “You mean...? I thought it was your blood that let you see spirits.”
Rolling his eyes, he shook his head like it was common knowledge, “Of course, but the souls that stay for hundreds of years have some control of it. How’d you think poltergeists work?”
He reluctantly handed the books back.
Scene 11
He smiled from his spot at the table, doing his homework with the girls. Waiting until Doumeki came in the kitchen, he laughed to himself before he turned to them. “You know girls, why don’t you take Papa to the pizza place tonight?”
All three of the jumped.
“Are you sure Daddy?” they asked anxiously.
He turned to find the same question clearly across his face. Not turning away, he answered. “It’s okay. Papa took me to the doctor and she said I was over it now. So you two go on your date with Papa, okay?”
They couldn’t hold their stare as the girls suddenly cheered, quickly putting their books away before running to their room. Laughing as he crossed the room, he turned to the pork-bun and smiled, “Well, hurry up.”
He jumped from Doumeki’s shoulder to his, “Mokona can go too?”
He only nodded, turning to the doorway and laughing as it disappeared after them. “I hope you don’t mind.”
A gentle hand on his shoulder made him nod softly. “It’s okay, really,” he turned to him, finding the shock and confusion hiding in his eyes. “Hey, if I trust you enough to cook with them, I should trust you enough to go out alone with them,” he plainly answered.
Doumeki only nodded. “Why don’t you come with us, get out of here for a while?” he offered.
“No, they’re been asking if they could for a while now.” He answered, a strangely calm yet serious look crossing his face, “Besides, I’ve got work to catch up on too.”
Walking out of the kitchen, he smiled. Maru and Moro were standing there like always - changed and ready to go. Realizing they were carrying identical bags, he turned to Moro. She obediently held out her bag, and sure enough, out popped Mokona. “You said I could go too Daddy.”
He just ignored him. “Try to keep an eye on him girls,” then he turned to him, “Stay in Moro’s bag. And no more than four bottles of beer, got that.”
“Only four,” the pork-bun pouted.
“Keep that up and you won’t get a drop.” Doumeki threatened from behind him, taking the words right out of his mouth.
He couldn’t help chuckling as he knelt; getting hugs and kisses from all three. Standing, he turned to Doumeki as he opened the door. “I’ll meet you at the temple at 10.”
“Ten...” Maru started.
Moro finished, “... you mean it?”
He smiled, “You don’t have school tomorrow. Being a little late won’t hurt.”
He turned to him and barely caught the pain flash across his face before Doumeki turned to the girls. “So where is this pizza place?”
He couldn’t help feeling happy as he watched them pull him down the hall.
Scene 12
He just sat on the bottom step, watching the moon rising, the stars trying to shine through the city’s lights. A strange feeling had come up when he’d sent them on their way and he just couldn’t shake it. Hiruko and Kishi both had to snap him out of it when he went to check on things. He didn’t know what bothered him more; the smiles on their faces.
Or that they might be right.
Sighing, he checked his watch for the fifth time since he’d gotten there - 27 minutes ago. “9:53. But I shouldn’t be worried now... even if they’re a little late,” he sighed, “It’s about time I... I can’t keep him out...”
“You didn’t have to Papa,” he suddenly heard their chorus come over the wall.
He jumped at his reply, “I wanted to. We’re on a date, right?”
“You didn’t have to play so many games with us.”
“I just wanted to help get the prize.”
Just then they came to the gateway and he couldn’t help laughing. They each held an elbow, a red and a white rose in their other hand. And there, in his arms, was a large stuffed 5-tailed fox.
The pipe-fox suddenly popped up, straining toward it.
He only smiled at the blush he caught as the twins let go and skipped up to him, retelling their adventures.
“Papa just kept playing...”
“... and he looked so...”
“Mokona tried to...”
“But we stopped him from...”
“... and Papa got all scary...”
Nodding, laughing and jumping as he should, he still sat there and watched him slowly join them. Stopping a few feet away, he didn’t miss the tiny smile still on his face.
There were suddenly four roses in his. “And Papa bought us flowers!” they cheered.
“I see,” he chuckled as he stood up, taking them.
Before he could even suggest it, Moro and Maru turned and bowed to him, “Thank you for everything Papa.”
He waited until they stood up, “Thank you for a wonderful evening,” he replied, bowing to them as well.
Cheering, they rushed over, hugging and kissing him before he stood. Handing their purses to Doumeki, he handed over their stuffed toy and they quickly ran off, dancing and playing across the grounds.
“Thank you for tonight,” he said before turning to him, holding up their bags, showing Mokona sound asleep inside one. “Who knew an extra-large chocolate shake would knock him out.”
“You’re learning,” he smiled weakly as he took them.
Doumeki noticed his bag at his feet. “It would be easier...” he muttered.
He flinched at the pain in his eyes. “Besides, you already had it packed,” he added as the turned away, nervous. “It’s the other reason why you had your date. I almost packed a bag for them but you might not have a room ready yet so I didn’t.” he stopped, realizing he was rambling.
“You’re right. I don’t.” he whispered, astonished at his words, the truth. Doumeki tentatively reached out, gently taking his hand. “Thank you,” he added as he turned to him.
He shook his head, “No, thank you. For all your help.” turning away as he swallowed hard, he called, “Maru, Moro.”
Barely turning, it didn’t surprise him at all as they reappeared on each side. “Daddy, can we leave Kiyoji here? Please?”
“Kiyoji?” they were both confused.
The girls giggled as they pointed at his neck, “He is the second one Daddy.”
The spirit nodded in approval.
He laughed as he stroked it, turning to Doumeki. “It’s up to you.”
“Please Papa?” They instantly spun begging.
He chuckled, “I could use the help.” he knelt as they hugged him again before passing the 5-tail back.
“Could you use a few more hands tomorrow?” he asked kinda nervous, getting the old eye quirk as the girls started begging. “I repay my debts.” he smirked.
Getting a smirk back, he calmly handed them their things. “Time to say good night girls.”
Already bending over, Doumeki kissed each back, saying “Good night, I’ll see you tomorrow,” watching as they turned and left.
Scene 13
He realized he was missing a shirt.
Oh, and another shout out to my nieces, for helping with the details in Scene 12.
doumekiwatanuki, this is a very long chapter, but i wanted to do something where doumeki gets to really help to prove he's serious. and this is the first thing that came to mind.
so here it is,
Act 298
Author: seizansha
Disclaimer: It’s CLAMP’s universe, I’m only playing in it.
Shout outs: thanks to everyone at
little_details and especially
starr234 and
alicetheowl for inspiring scenes.
Warning: this sucker’s long. 13 scenes. 14 pages....... you were warned, remember that.
Scene1
Mokona bouncing form bed to bed woke them up, it always did. They started giggling as they sat up, stopping as they turned to their window and saw the sun was just starting to rise.
“Hurry, something’s wrong with Watanuki!” Mokona called out, still bouncing between beds before heading across the hall.
They hopped out of bed and followed. “Daddy! Daddy, are you okay?”
They jumped at finding him huddled in the middle of the bed; shivering violently and moaning in his sleep, sweat almost pouring down his face. “Daddy...?” their voices quivered in concern and confusion. Slowly climbing on the bed, they jumped as he instantly sat up, coughing so loud and so hard they could only sit back in shock. Absently wiping his mouth on his sleeve, he slumped over just as suddenly. He was shaking badly as they covered him up again, looking at each other.
“What do we do?” one asked.
The other just shrugged. “What’s wrong with Daddy?”
Mokona jumped in, landing on his shoulder. Looking worried, the little guy reached for his face and instantly snapped his hand away. “He’s burning up,” turning to find them almost to tears, he added “We need-”
“Mommy!” they almost cried out.
The pork-bun just started floating up before turning away from them, eyes opening with a strong projector light shooting out, an image of Yuko standing among shelves of books slowly appearing. “My, my, is something wro-” she stopped as their side became clear. “Oh dear, are you two alright?”
They both nodded, “But what’s wrong with Daddy Mommy?”
She smiled softly at them, “Daddy’s gotten really sick.”
“Really fast.” Mokona added, “He wasn’t like this yesterday.”
Yuko only nodded, “He need to see a doctor sweeties. And since I’m not there, you need to call someone else.”
They hung their heads only the snap back up, turning to each other. “Papa!”
Yuko quirked an eye, “So he’s back... but he’s not there?”
Turning to Mokona, they said it in unison, “That boy is so stubborn.”
“But then, I suppose this time he had good reason to be...” she muttered before turning back to the girls. “You need to call Papa sweeties, so he can come and help take care of Daddy.”
Hopping off the bed, they called, “Papa left his number on the fridge!” as they ran out.
Yuko only smiled softly as she turned back to her former servant. A look that could almost be motherly crossed her face, “It’s unfortunate, but it is hitsuzen.” that one word seemed to rouse him, blinking blurry eyes at a fading image, Yuko could only smirk, tapping her chin, “If only Doumeki sees it.”
He chalked it up to the fever and fell asleep.
One got the phone as the other got the number. Holding it between their heads, they squirmed as they listened to it ring and ring.
A gruff voice mumbled, “Hello.”
Both sides of the call suddenly jumped. “Papa, hurry! Daddy’s sick Papa and we don’t know what’s wrong! Hurry, hurry!”
He was instantly awake, trying to calm them down. “Girls, it’ll be okay. You two go keep an eye on him and I’ll be there as soon as I can.”
“Hurry Papa.” they added just before hanging up.
He was digging around for a phonebook and trying to pull his pajamas off.
Somehow he knew it was bad.
Scene 2
He was practically dragging him down the hallway. He just didn’t have the energy to lift his feet. Somehow he was grateful he still had the keys. It wasn’t until they walked into the apartment that he finally started taunting him. “You should be glad I let them come along. The vaccine should help keep us from catching it.”
He started toward the bedrooms when he raised his head, “No... put me onthecouch,” he mumbled.
“Are you sure?” he asked as he turned them to it.
Trying to nod, his head just fell, “They like to play nurse...” he mumbled as he sat, slumping over and shivering badly.
He quickly turned to the closet, pulling out all the blankets and, leaving him in his coat, started bundling him up in them. He couldn’t help the small smirk at him muttering about having to rely on him all over again, cursing his luck for catching pneumonia... barely a month after he came back.
The pork-bun appeared out of nowhere, landing on his shoulder. “Pneumonia.”
He nodded, turning to it. “I still need to get the medicine, so keep and eye on the baka.”
Pulling the prescription notes from his pocket, he froze as he shifted, “They... cuddle... whenthey’re... scared... you takethebed...” he muttered, staring in his direction before nodding off.
He just stood there in shock until Mokona bonked him on the head.
He just watched as he went to the door. “I’ll be back as soon as I can.”
“Don’t worry, Mokona will take good care of him,” he answered as Doumeki turned while opening the door.
That hard glare made him cringe.
He didn’t more until the door closed, he heard this footsteps start down the hall. Turning back to the couch, he quickly hopped over. Landing by his chin, the closest thing to a worried look crossed his face before he barely started floating, calling up Yuko.
“So how’s my dear boy?” Yuko’s voice softly came across, the image clearing to show her dressed in elegant robes, lounging on the edge of a giant fountain. “You moved him at least.”
“Doumeki-kun and Maru-chan and Moro-chan took him to the doctor. Watanuki-kun as pneumonia, everyone else is fine. They got shots,” he answered, eyes turning to him as they slid closed.
“Vaccinated, Doumeki’s just as focused as ever.” she added with a soft smile, “So where is everyone?”
“Daddy decided the girls had to go to school and Papa agreed since the doctor said he’d be sleeping more than anything. Papa’s gone to get the medicine and some clothes.”
“Some clothes?”
He tried to nod without breaking the connection, “Watanuki told him to take the bed.”
She smiled, “Hmm, seems like he’s warming up to him. Or is he wearing him down?”
“The girls are drawing them together,” he answered knowingly.
Her smile turned mischievous. “Just one of the reasons I left my girls with Watanuki-chan,” she chuckled as he snorted. “So how are they taking it?”
Those nubs started tallying air, “Moro and Maru like it when Papa comes but know Daddy’s still upset, so they don’t ask about him much. Doumeki’s usually here before or after school and comes on the weekends only if they ask him to.” he reached over, patting his chin, “And Watanuki plays nice when he’s around but...”
Yuko shifted, leaning forward, almost as if she could poke through the projection like a window. “A broken heart is hard to fix. Even when it’s put back together, the scars are still there, the pain still lingers.” She sat up with a concerned look, “Let’s hope our hard work doesn’t go to waste,” her gaze turned to another behind Soel before the connection was ended.
Scene 3
He woke up to find him sitting on the coffee table, pulling away and picking up a glass of water. “Come on. The doctor said as soon as possible.”
He sighed as he tried to sit up. Feeling exhausted after just getting his elbows under him, he’d just let sleep back in... if only Doumeki would let him. “Take your medicine first,” that gruff voice rumbled with the command.
Trying to glare at him, he almost rolled off the couch as a violent coughing fit started. He jumped - or he would have if he wasn’t coughing so hard - as he felt his hand supporting him, rubbing his back, patting him. He did actually fall into his arms when it stopped, losing what little strength he had just coughing so much.
Gently rolling him back onto the couch, he couldn’t hide his concern, couldn’t help remembering... Taking the pharmacist’s advice, he turned to the table and started crushing the one tablet between the spoons for the other two. A rustling behind him made him turn, finding him trying to roll to him, his gaze on the glass of water. A calming hand on his leg stopped him before he added the powder, stirring it in. Slipping one hand under his neck, he realized just how hot he was; he’d need to keep an eye on it, make sure he was drinking something. A tiny smile at such a cool touch showed he was waking as he slowly lifted his head, helping him take the medicines. He practically had to wake him up between each one.
Knock, knock.
Made him jump, him snort.
The pipe fox spirit practically dragged Mokona out of the kitchen as he stared at the door.
Knock, knock.
“Not that door,” Mokona answered as it hopped up on his head, turning him toward an armoire across the room. “That door.”
He’d never really thought about the furniture in their apartment, all he really noticed was he had the entire place furnished Western-style. So seeing a large cabinet by the wall he assumed it had a TV in it. He just realized it was near the right end of the couch, to one side of the kitchen door. The TV was on a low set of shelves behind him.
A soft cooing made him turn back, finding him turning to it and trying to pry his eyes open as the fox spirit curled around his head. “Comein.” he mumbled just as another knock sounded.
“It’s okay, it’s help.” Mokona said, turning his head back to the cabinet.
Narrowing his eyes, he slowly turned to the cabinet. Opening the doors, he had to admit he was surprised. Rows of statues - gods and other spirits - incense burners and talismans were neatly arranged inside. He suddenly laughed at himself; with everything they’d been though in high school, why should he be surprised Watanuki has a shrine in his home.
“Kimihiro-kun,” and older man’s voice started as one of the statues began to glow, a ghost-like presence forming beside him, “I’m sure you’ve sensed the commotion growing at the base of Mount- oh,” he stopped as his body solidified, taking in the situation.
He appeared to be forty-some, casually dressed in a blue shirt and khakis, his hair tied back in a short ponytail. Stepping closer, he sat on the edge of the couch, “What happened?” he asked, placing one hand on his forehead.
Mokona suddenly bounce off his head, landing on this man’s shoulder. “He’s got pneumonia Hiruko-san.”
“Pneumonia, hey,” Hiruko turned to the pork-bun before turning to Watanuki, “So he’s the one.”
He suddenly remembered the teahouse.
“You just get better kid; I’ll take care of things, get the word out.” Hiruko said with a gentle smile, softly patting his leg before standing. “Let us know if you need any help.”
Watanuki tried to smile and nod, “I will.”
He came to stand beside him again. “Don’t worry about the twins, Kishi will pick them up.” he smiled knowingly as he turned to the altar, “Take care of him.” he started fading out as the statue started glowing again.
Scene 4
He still couldn’t believe it.
He was in the one place he’d returned to Tokyo for.
In the worst possible situation.
After he was sure Watanuki would stay asleep - threats of bodily harm and the fox spirit growling keeping the pork-bun in check - he’d picked up his bag and headed for the bedroom.
One step in stopped him.
He’d been dreaming about this even before he’d left. Being in his bed was what brought him back, what drove him forward, kept him trying to prove he was serious, he wouldn’t run away again.
But the dreams always included him.
He’d be there... but he wouldn’t.
Tearing his gaze away, he calmly walked over to the dresser, placing his bag down beside it before turning to leave.
His scent would still be there... even though he probably washes them weekly at least.
He found himself crossing the room, sitting by the head of the bed. He had to find out... so, with shaky hands, he slowly took hold of the pillow, raising it to his face. Couldn’t help smiling at the flowery detergent scent... soap and musk and... something else, mysterious.... mystical. It reminded him of so many things... made him long for more. Hugging the pillow tight, he wrapped himself in the scents, getting lost in the memories he wanted to make.
“Daddy, Daddy how are you feeling? Are you okay, do you need anything Daddy?” snapped him back to reality.
Scene 5
A bump in the night woke him up.
He tried to hold still when he heard the muffled coughing, a quick check showed they were still asleep. Suddenly grateful one had kicked the covers off, he carefully shifted each of them, making Mokona peek over pink hair to look at him, worried. He only nodded once before carefully slipping out of the bed, heading toward the door.
He was slumped on the floor by the other side of the bathroom door, his hands flat on the floor, elbows bending him closer and closer to it with each cough. Kneeling behind him, he just noticed the damp washcloth between his knees. Picking it up and holding it gently to his mouth, he started rubbing his back. Jumping slightly as both his hands covered his, he clasped his shoulder, trying to hold him up, keep him still.
Both shaky hands pulling his slowly down from his mouth, he practically collapsed forward. He barely caught him before he cracked his head. He leaned him back against him at his heavy panting. “Come on idiot, calm down.” he mumbled on his earn rubbing his chest. His head lulling back on his left shoulder, his face turning to his neck, his hot panting against his ear only made his face flush too. Trying to focus on his quickening breaths, he started whispering, “Calm down. Just breathe. Calm down. Relax. Breathe.” he kept repeating slowly, timing it to his own.
He stopped rubbing his chest as he felt his whole body relax, his breathing even out. Trying to move to pick him up, he froze at the soft sigh against his neck. “Shizuka,” he hummed happily.
Even though he knew... he couldn’t help taking it to heart.
Scene 6
“Come on Papa, it’s not that hard.”
“Yeah, and we’ll help you with everything.”
He tried to laugh at his half-hearted smile, that scared twinge in his eyes, but it turned into another coughing fit.
Spitting out the gunk he finally started coughing up, he smiled at all four faces watching over him. (Mokona had disappeared somewhere.) “Go on, they’ve been helping since Yuko’s. They can do it, all you have to do is the cutting and chopping.”
“Daddy’s still teaching us that part.” they nodded.
Casting him an evil smirk, he almost laughed again as Doumeki stood, “You do know how to use a knife, don’t you?”
“You’re just lucky you’re sick.”
He smiled as his girls took both hands and started tugging him to the kitchen. “You’re just lucky Kishi’s been cooking both meals so far.”
He let the chopping and giggles lull him to sleep.
Scene 7
He was not going to take advantage of the situation.
Scene 8
The cool touch to his face made him groan. He slowly pried his eyes open to find he was in the tub, half full of cold water, ice cubes floating everywhere.
“Papa, what’s...” one’s sleepy voice started.
“... wrong with Daddy?” the other’s finished.
“Nothing’s wrong, he’s in the bathroom,” he answered.
Suddenly realizing their voices seemed muffled; he turned to, thankfully, find the door closed. “Just go back to bed,” he could almost hear the smile, “I’ll be back when I’m done helping Daddy.”
The soft footsteps made him turn back to the water.
He wasn’t sure why he was glad he still had his pajama pants on.
Or why there were little Mokona’s all over them.
Scene 9
He wasn’t sure how he was gonna do this. He’d put it off as long as he could. Until Watanuki realized it.
Trying to maneuver three basket loads into the living room, he had to stop himself from just dropping them when he heard him coughing hard again. Forcing himself to stay calm, he smirked as he remembered this morning’s rant.
‘Would you stop with the coddling! The fever finally broke, it’s getting easier to breath and I’m not cou-’
He’d had one of his longest fits yet.
Setting the baskets down on the other side of the coffee table, he knelt beside them as he tried to sit up. “Let me help...” he started, falling right back onto the couch.
He smirked, getting a glare back, “Just tell me who’s it is, where it goes. I can fold laundry.”
He sighed, “There’s not much to worry about, haven’t you noticed yet, they share everything. Hell, they even trade beds in the middle of the night sometimes.”
He nodded as he started folding. “So they always take turns?”
“Never in any order, the only time they keep track is when we walk to school.” he turned to the table, “They do have different likes and dislikes though.”
“But they love housework,” he smirked.
“Only ‘cause they love helping me with it,” he pointed at the book on the table. “Moro chose that one.”
He chuckled, “So she reads fantasy books.”
“Strange, I know. But she thinks they’re funny.”
“And Maru?”
“She likes adventure stories. They ask about our old jobs a lot too.”
He’d picked up a simple white dress, shaking it out just as Watanuki reached for it. Before he knew it, he was handing it over, watching as he draped it over his knees. “It’s Moro’s, Maru’s is the black one. These dresses are a few of the things they don’t share.”
He just nodded as he kept folding, realizing where the towels went, thinking. “So their toys?”
“Shared... though they have stopped buying everything in pairs lately.”
“Their powers?”
“Powers...” he mumbled sleepily, “Don’t know, they don’t do much, but it’s always together.”
“They’re inseparable at school, so they probably have the same friends,” only got him a nod.
Loading the folded clothes back in the baskets, he asked, “Do they always do their hair like that?”
He yawned, “Not always... sometimes they leave it down.”
He nodded as he took the towels in the kitchen. Coming back for the rest, he smiled at finding him sleeping. Turning to the hall, he stopped at his words.
“Maru had blue hair.”
Scene 10
He was starting to wonder if the fever was back.
He kept overhearing Watanuki talking to someone; one-sided conversations, he never heard any replies. He’d chalked it us to the pipe-fox, but Watanuki convinced it to go with the twins again - it had been three weeks and his breathing kept improving as the coughing started going away. But when he came in it stopped, he never saw or heard anything.
It wasn’t until he’d caught the girls and even the pork-bun doing it that he finally asked.
“What’s going on?” he’d sat on the coffee table as he took his textbooks away.
“Hey,” Watanuki growled, trying to reach for them. “I’ve fallen too far behind already, give’m back!”
He smiled inside at Watanuki cringing at his glare. “Wha-what are you talking about?”
“Who are all of you talking to? Why can’t I see or hear them?”
He only narrowed his eyes at the condescending look he was giving him. “If you hadn’t noticed moron, I severed the whole eye-bond thing two years ago! As for who; his name is Shikibu, he’s almost 1000 years old and terrified of you and your abilities so you can’t see or hear him and he disappears when he senses you coming. I met him before I even looked into this apartment, he helps me with all the other souls that stay in this world. He pops in and out of here like a visiting grandpa; he plays with the girls and gossips with Mokona.”
He turned away, muttering. “Guess that could explain why I haven’t heard a name.”
Watanuki sat up and turned to him, trying to get his books back. Suddenly realizing he was practically hugging him, he jumped back.
He didn’t miss the slight blush. “He’s not hurting anyone, so why would I try to get rid of him?”
He sighed, “That’s what I’ve been trying to tell him since you reappeared. It’s taken this long to get him to stay in the apartment, it’ll probably take three times as long ‘til he’ll let you see or hear him.”
He quirked an eye, “You mean...? I thought it was your blood that let you see spirits.”
Rolling his eyes, he shook his head like it was common knowledge, “Of course, but the souls that stay for hundreds of years have some control of it. How’d you think poltergeists work?”
He reluctantly handed the books back.
Scene 11
He smiled from his spot at the table, doing his homework with the girls. Waiting until Doumeki came in the kitchen, he laughed to himself before he turned to them. “You know girls, why don’t you take Papa to the pizza place tonight?”
All three of the jumped.
“Are you sure Daddy?” they asked anxiously.
He turned to find the same question clearly across his face. Not turning away, he answered. “It’s okay. Papa took me to the doctor and she said I was over it now. So you two go on your date with Papa, okay?”
They couldn’t hold their stare as the girls suddenly cheered, quickly putting their books away before running to their room. Laughing as he crossed the room, he turned to the pork-bun and smiled, “Well, hurry up.”
He jumped from Doumeki’s shoulder to his, “Mokona can go too?”
He only nodded, turning to the doorway and laughing as it disappeared after them. “I hope you don’t mind.”
A gentle hand on his shoulder made him nod softly. “It’s okay, really,” he turned to him, finding the shock and confusion hiding in his eyes. “Hey, if I trust you enough to cook with them, I should trust you enough to go out alone with them,” he plainly answered.
Doumeki only nodded. “Why don’t you come with us, get out of here for a while?” he offered.
“No, they’re been asking if they could for a while now.” He answered, a strangely calm yet serious look crossing his face, “Besides, I’ve got work to catch up on too.”
Walking out of the kitchen, he smiled. Maru and Moro were standing there like always - changed and ready to go. Realizing they were carrying identical bags, he turned to Moro. She obediently held out her bag, and sure enough, out popped Mokona. “You said I could go too Daddy.”
He just ignored him. “Try to keep an eye on him girls,” then he turned to him, “Stay in Moro’s bag. And no more than four bottles of beer, got that.”
“Only four,” the pork-bun pouted.
“Keep that up and you won’t get a drop.” Doumeki threatened from behind him, taking the words right out of his mouth.
He couldn’t help chuckling as he knelt; getting hugs and kisses from all three. Standing, he turned to Doumeki as he opened the door. “I’ll meet you at the temple at 10.”
“Ten...” Maru started.
Moro finished, “... you mean it?”
He smiled, “You don’t have school tomorrow. Being a little late won’t hurt.”
He turned to him and barely caught the pain flash across his face before Doumeki turned to the girls. “So where is this pizza place?”
He couldn’t help feeling happy as he watched them pull him down the hall.
Scene 12
He just sat on the bottom step, watching the moon rising, the stars trying to shine through the city’s lights. A strange feeling had come up when he’d sent them on their way and he just couldn’t shake it. Hiruko and Kishi both had to snap him out of it when he went to check on things. He didn’t know what bothered him more; the smiles on their faces.
Or that they might be right.
Sighing, he checked his watch for the fifth time since he’d gotten there - 27 minutes ago. “9:53. But I shouldn’t be worried now... even if they’re a little late,” he sighed, “It’s about time I... I can’t keep him out...”
“You didn’t have to Papa,” he suddenly heard their chorus come over the wall.
He jumped at his reply, “I wanted to. We’re on a date, right?”
“You didn’t have to play so many games with us.”
“I just wanted to help get the prize.”
Just then they came to the gateway and he couldn’t help laughing. They each held an elbow, a red and a white rose in their other hand. And there, in his arms, was a large stuffed 5-tailed fox.
The pipe-fox suddenly popped up, straining toward it.
He only smiled at the blush he caught as the twins let go and skipped up to him, retelling their adventures.
“Papa just kept playing...”
“... and he looked so...”
“Mokona tried to...”
“But we stopped him from...”
“... and Papa got all scary...”
Nodding, laughing and jumping as he should, he still sat there and watched him slowly join them. Stopping a few feet away, he didn’t miss the tiny smile still on his face.
There were suddenly four roses in his. “And Papa bought us flowers!” they cheered.
“I see,” he chuckled as he stood up, taking them.
Before he could even suggest it, Moro and Maru turned and bowed to him, “Thank you for everything Papa.”
He waited until they stood up, “Thank you for a wonderful evening,” he replied, bowing to them as well.
Cheering, they rushed over, hugging and kissing him before he stood. Handing their purses to Doumeki, he handed over their stuffed toy and they quickly ran off, dancing and playing across the grounds.
“Thank you for tonight,” he said before turning to him, holding up their bags, showing Mokona sound asleep inside one. “Who knew an extra-large chocolate shake would knock him out.”
“You’re learning,” he smiled weakly as he took them.
Doumeki noticed his bag at his feet. “It would be easier...” he muttered.
He flinched at the pain in his eyes. “Besides, you already had it packed,” he added as the turned away, nervous. “It’s the other reason why you had your date. I almost packed a bag for them but you might not have a room ready yet so I didn’t.” he stopped, realizing he was rambling.
“You’re right. I don’t.” he whispered, astonished at his words, the truth. Doumeki tentatively reached out, gently taking his hand. “Thank you,” he added as he turned to him.
He shook his head, “No, thank you. For all your help.” turning away as he swallowed hard, he called, “Maru, Moro.”
Barely turning, it didn’t surprise him at all as they reappeared on each side. “Daddy, can we leave Kiyoji here? Please?”
“Kiyoji?” they were both confused.
The girls giggled as they pointed at his neck, “He is the second one Daddy.”
The spirit nodded in approval.
He laughed as he stroked it, turning to Doumeki. “It’s up to you.”
“Please Papa?” They instantly spun begging.
He chuckled, “I could use the help.” he knelt as they hugged him again before passing the 5-tail back.
“Could you use a few more hands tomorrow?” he asked kinda nervous, getting the old eye quirk as the girls started begging. “I repay my debts.” he smirked.
Getting a smirk back, he calmly handed them their things. “Time to say good night girls.”
Already bending over, Doumeki kissed each back, saying “Good night, I’ll see you tomorrow,” watching as they turned and left.
Scene 13
He realized he was missing a shirt.
Oh, and another shout out to my nieces, for helping with the details in Scene 12.