[Kikkawa Compound]

[⌈ addy ⌋]

— Kikkawa Residence —





Built upon one of the many rolling hills that litter Kusagakure's landscape, this prestigious yet humble abode is home to those of the Kikkawa family. It is erected upon the site where its predecessor once stood, symbolizing the fall and revival of the family itself. Many things about the compound have changed, such as the destruction of the fencing and gates that previously barred outsiders from entering without permission. The front of the house has a wondrous view of the village in which it resides, although the actual walk to and from each way takes more time than it originally seems.

First Floor

Upon entering the Kikkawa home, one's attention would immediately be drawn to the large fountain centered in the lobby. The structure is actually a statue is of a legendary beast of myth known as Watatsumi, a water deity. The god is a large stone dragon that swirls up to a height of ten feet, dangerous eyes made of sapphire gleaming out from sockets of silver. In fact, the god's whole body is made out of a polished, silveresque material. Streams of water pour from the statue's open mouth, as well as its hands. The glorious monument rests in a pool of perfectly clear water, the basin filling a radius of ten feet itself. Directly overhead is a large skylight that lights up the whole room, and whose glass is kept so clean it is barely visible.

Behind the fountain is a lobbyist's desk that wraps along the wall, eternally empty for lack of people to man the station. Swirling panels of wood make up the floors and the walls; along them reside skillfully painted designs. Many of these paintings appear to be expensive, depicting beautiful flowers, trees, and other greenery. There are the assorted beach and ocean scenes as well. Large trees grow throughout the home, some of which pierce into the second level of the building to give the impression of eternal life and growth. Their roots pierce the paneling of the floor in an intentionally careless fashion, cracking the wood but leaving the area safe to walk on. Because of the trees, the room always smells like fresh air, mingling in with the scent of soil.

Beyond the lobby a few stairs lead down to the home's leisure area, which goes largely unused. There is a spacious living room, complete with several leather couches that hug the wall, and matching armchairs for those who dislike social or physical contact. There are a few dark wood coffee tables to go along with the resting places, set up with several small pieces of fabric for placing drinks upon. Across from that side of the room, large aquarium is set into the wall. It's a communal tank, housing the fish of any Kikkawa who chooses to get one. Next to it is a small closet door; inside sits filter changes, fish food, and a joking list of the names of each fish in the tank. Beyond this area is the kitchen, lusciously decked out and always abundant in various types of food, from noodles, to meat, to tea. A small hall leads to the dining room, where a ridiculously long dining table stretches out in a room specifically built to fit it. Chairs line in a row down either side, with none at the end of the table but two situated at the head. This area is mostly used for formal dinners, and for the rare occasion of a formal family meeting.

Second Floor

There are two spiral staircases in the lobby that lead to the home's second floor; one at the Eastern wall, and one at the Western wall. The tops of both reveal long halls with many doors, some of which have been personalized by their occupants with various signs and notices. Each door leads to a room, obviously-- equally personalized, as no style or furniture set within is the same, less they be guest rooms or chosen to match by their owners. They each also have a door that leads out to a wide, connected balcony which wraps around the entire home, successfully connecting each room and opening up various means of mischief. Small tables and chairs are set up at the front and back of the house, as they are good witness to sunrise and sunset respectively. Several of these rooms are privy to the growth of the trees from below, whose branches reach high up and break through the ceiling, gathering light and growing all the while.

At the rear of both hallways, there is a connecting length of a room with five doors: the bathrooms that the family shares. Each restroom is equal in size, and all contain the same basic necessities, such as toilets, sinks, cabinets with various toiletry items, and a place to shower. The bathroom in the middle, or the third one from either direction, is different in that the center of the room houses a large, inset bathtub complete unlit candles and relaxing lotions. This bathroom has no limit on who may use it, but because the tub takes up so much space, this room lacks a shower and sink. Instead, the walls are lined with shelves, some with towels and others with more items to make a bath more.. luxurious and, of course, relaxing.

The Garden

This is, perhaps, the pride and joy of the Kikkawa family despite their fabulous home: one of the most beautiful gardens in the entire village, rivaled and out done only by the Hanakora's own. Located behind the house, a path of flat stone takes one down the gentle slope of the hill, enclosed on each side by row of cherry blossom trees. They seem to bloom more often than normal, although the reason for this is unclear. At the end of the path, where the ground flattens out once more, one beholds the garden itself. It holds a wide variety of flora, in so many colors it's quite impossible to not enjoy the view. The grass is lush and, because the Kikkawa are not completely obsessed, perfect for relaxing upon.

The same path winds in many directions through the garden, meeting up only once in its center. Here, a type of clearing is made, set on the side by a few tables with umbrellas reaching over them. This place is perfect for having tea if one does not mind the walk, and because the Kikkawa tend to remain in their garden rather than in their house, it serves as a social hub for the family. When informal meetings are being held, this is the place to come! The area is large, and although its ground is created by rocks, it has been designated a wonderful place to train-- though the favorites here are GenJutsu and TaiJutsu in the long run. Because this place is in the near dead-center of the garden, there is still a lot more to see. Traveling off the paths is a sport most recommended, for many types of animals are attracted to the sweet smells of the flowers all around. The end of the garden is symbolized by two giant weeping willows, who sit upon the top of a one-sided hill: the area of the garden is flat, and beyond the willows, the elevation drops. The bottom of this hill sports a pond, big and deep enough to swim in but small enough to see across, for at the other side the immensely grassy terrain of Kusagakure begins again.

[ Made by Addy & Yahiko. ]

Rules:

• This is a death enabled thread.
  
• Don't start OOC drama; keep OOC to a minimum.
  
• Try to keep it PG-13. Warn us if it's above.
  
• Training is allowed. RP interaction is preferred.

[⌈ addy ⌋]

— The Kikkawa Family —

History

In the beginning the Kikkawa family was once one of Kusagakure's largest Mokuton-user families, alongside the Hanakora. They held a strong presence within the village hidden in the grass; they were powerful, regal, and rich. Much like that of the Hyuuga, there existed a rank system of sorts-- the first son of the previous heir was always the one to have control over the main family compound. The second son would always be forced to live in the smaller complex on the outskirts of the village. The family did this to ensure that they would have a strong structure and that the head was always able to lead their family to greatness in their time. The first two in this line of command where called Hitsaguya Kikkawa and Gojiro Kikkawa. Upon birth, Hitsaguya became the heir simply because he was the first out of the womb. His brother became a leader of the outer complex; surprisingly, throughout most of their lives, the two brothers never conflicted more than was natural for a family. That is, until they had reached Jounin level within the village.

At this point, the brothers had different stand points on a strong focus in the family: which release should be the main strength. For countless years the Mokuton, or Wood Release, was taught exclusively to the youth of the family. However, Gojiro wished to change this, to expand their tradition and enforce the mastery of Suiton, water, as well. This would become the brothers' first great quarrel, and was quickly followed by a battle to determine which idea would be followed by testing the strengths of the two releases. In a valley several miles outside Kusa no Kuni they had their showdown; after a few days of intense battle, recuperation, and several heated debates an conclusion was met.. using force. A master of the Suiton release, Gojiro used his surrounding environment to ensure the defeat of his elder brother. This victory secured his teachings a place in the traditions of the Kikkawa family.

The argument settled, the two brothers returned to their village to live out the rest of their lives. The Kikkawa family thrived off of violence to settle debates that could not be talked out, and so no hard feelings came between them afterwards. Because of Gojiro, the family would soon see many generations of skilled Suiton and Mokuton users; however, this would not be the last time a civil war would break out amongst the family. Almost two hundred years later the outer complex members grew tired of their diminishing status, tired of feeling like the lesser beings because of their birth. Rising up, they challenged the the main complex, and were quickly overthrown by the current head of family, Hiraki Kikkawa. After the crushing defeat they suffered, the outer complex members were forced to scatter, lest they be killed off by the rest of the family. To the main complex, the whereabouts of these people went unknown after they fled the country, as they never bothered to track them down.

Hiraki's reign was a long one, but in his later years he finally handed down the leadership position to his son, Matsuya Kikkawa. Under this man the Kikkawa main complex entered another age of peace and prosperity, no longer riddled by the complaints of those they had lost. They did, however, change their traditions once again-- the outer complex was demolished, and all newborns after that, despite their birth status, were allowed to call themselves main complex Kikkawa. Lurking among the other countries, the threat of another Kikkawa rebellion still burns true in the hearts of those who were forced to flee. Matsuya was constantly aware of this, and he pushed his children to be strong, often over-working them. One day, the title of leader would be passed down to his first son, Matsuda. For a long time Matsu was ignorant of his destiny, but he soon learned the truth, even if it was not by choice. He was protected by his friend and family member Gansaku, who would soon play a key role in events to come.

It started with a man named Nagato Kikkawa. He had a brilliant idea, a fabulous idea-- let us move our family to a new place, one we could control and call our own. Amongst the battle-ready hearts of the Kikkawa, this idea spread rapidly, and became popular. The youth supported it, ready to free themselves from the reign of Kusagakure and the current Kusakage. Unfortunately, the elders who had spent most of their lives in the village disapproved, and the move was denied power. Nagato, not one to be deterred, began to plot with his loyal followers what they would do to make his dream a reality. His younger brother, Kakera, was malleable enough for him to control; he simply asked the boy to take care of the elders of the family. Kakera, in a show of his brute power and influence, managed to do just that: he slaughtered every member of the family who was old enough to be against Nagato's wishes. The elders, although very powerful themselves, were caught off guard by this attack. They stood no chance, though they fought.

Meanwhile, a new Kusakage was being voted for within the village. The one to be chosen was a young girl named Hotaru Hanakora; her being called Kage enraged more of the Kikkawa youth, for their families had been pseudo-rivals for a long time. They thought that one of them should have been inducted as Kage to run the village, a good alternative to moving the whole family to a new location. Gansaku, always the mastermind but eternally loyal to Matsu, came up with a plan to get one of the Kikkawa put in the position of Kage. They rioted and complained, showed the extent of their powers, until finally the council of elders proposed a revote. Despite this, Hotaru still held her inaugeration celebration at Lake Mizuho. On this night a Kikkawa woman named Beppin appeared before her, sporting the dead bodies of two grass shinobi. Gansaku watched from the shadows as Beppin said goodbye with a kiss, and both Kikkawa ran off.

But of course, they were up against a strong village. A boy that had been watching, Masakuni, chased after them with the intent to capture or kill, along with Hotaru trailing behind. Beppin was almost a prodigy within the Kikkawa family, having the blood of the infamous Hyuuga within her as well. She made quick work of Masakuni with her Jyuukan, just as Hotaru began to use her infamous Hanakora techniques to grow a tree. Gansaku threw a kunai at the Kusakage, and.. it exploded. However, the force of the attack was consumed by a wooden construct that appeared, announcing what they had been waiting for: the elders had made a decision about the Kusakage, the Shichidaime. It was to be a Kikkawa, Uekyuuchi! With this the Kikkawa disappeared from the area.

Although Uekyuuchi was the new Kusakage, their conflict with Hotaru only spurred the Kikkawa to continue on with their plans of relocation. Nagato never ceased in his continuance of this, despite the happenings with the village. He and his protege, a Kaguya, kidnapped Gansaku's youngest sister, Riou Kikkawa. Her headband was left as a tribute just outside of the village, and they began to travel toward their new land. Gansaku sent Matsu ahead of them with a few other Kikkawa for protection purposes, realizing that many disgruntled others would be out to get Beppin and himself. He was, of course, correct. As they tried to exit the village and follow after, they were attacked by a random shinobi, who was neither from the village nor recognizable. He was a demon. Without much effort he killed Gansaku, and spared Beppin's life, although her arm was severed in the process. She later died of blood loss in the hospital; two great shinobi were fallen.

Nagato's plans would have worked, had he continued on. Although many of the young Kikkawa had been killed, some were safe, traveling outside of the village. He, his protege, and his prisoner were making good time. Without rhyme or reason Nagato suddenly disappeared, leaving the young Kikkawa girl battered and unable to return from whence she came. Meanwhile, his younger brother Kakera stumbled upon the mess at the gates of Kusa, the deaths of Gansaku and others. He was devastated, but he still moved forth to follow after his brother, hoping for a new land. When he got to the location, there was.. nothing there. He had been tricked again! On his way back to Kusagakure he found Riou, and together they returned to their village and wrecked home. Matsu made it back safely as well, but died soon after-- the details are unclear to the family, but the loss was hard. Now there was no head, and no heir. But one Kikkawa remained strong, if shaken up, throughout. Riou realized that their family was going to crumble further without a leader, and because she was the closest in blood to the head family (although not a male, obviously) she took over the head position. It was slow and steady, but now the Kikkawa are back on the rise. A new main compound has been built, and the next chapter has been opened.

[ Made by Matsu & Addy. ]

Family Crest

This symbol.. can be found just about everywhere in the Kikkawa Residence. Burned into tables and chairs; hanging in picture frames, one in each room; proudly branded into the front door of the abode. Where one looks, there will be at least one of these, marking the positions as Kikkawa property. As well, many members of the family choose to have the crest somewhere on their clothing, whether it be in pin form or a decoration on a shirt or blade. This is the kanji of water, which is the source, the life of all Mokuton jutsu. It stands for so much, but most of all, it stands for Kikkawa Pride.

Guidelines for Making a Kikkawa

• Read all of this information (history, crest, guidelines, etc) as it is very important.
  
  
• All full-blooded Kikkawa must have Suiton release at their start. Starting with Mokuton (and because of that, Doton) release is recommended, but not required, so long as you eventually go into them.
  
  
• Suiton is considered the life of all Mokuton. Therefore, family members generally master water before moving on to wood jutsu. This is not required, but it is recommended strongly. It's part of who the Kikkawa are.
  
  
• Not being born a Kikkawa is allowed, aka adoption. However, these Kikkawa will have no strong say in family meetings and will be regarded as lesser beings by some of the old-fashioned Kikkawa.
  
  
• If you make a Kikkawa, it's perfectly fine to also have a clan or bloodlimit, as long as you can justify it. Was your mother part of that clan? Was your father? Make it clear in your history.
  
  
• Appearance-wise, full-blooded Kikkawa generally have brown or hazel eyes. The gene for this color seems to override any others in the parent. The most common hair colors are dark brown and black, however, hair dye and genes from a non-Kikkawa parent may change this.
  
  
• This leads to another point-- good bios. You've been given a lot of information, so a decent history, personality, etc really makes the Addy happy. Bonus points~!
  
  
• Finally, PM myself for permission to create a Kikkawa. I like active members, so I may ask for a roleplay example, but if you're new that's fine too. Just ask, I'm actually rather nice.

Family Roster

Males

• Kikkawa, Sohryu — Played by: Coma — Position: Head of Family.
  
• Kikkawa, Shunsosuke — Played by: Ioshi — Position: Member.

Females

• Kikkawa, Riou — Played by: Addy — Position: Head of Family.

[⌈ addy ⌋]

I ONLY STAND TO BREAK YOUR HEART,
YOU CAN TELL IT BY THE WAY I RUN AWAY.

[/size][/color][/center]

Long days; exponentially longer nights. For the past several days I had not been able to lay my head down upon my pillow without a torrent of thought assaulting me. They were random things, really: memories, dreams, and especially depression over the current state of my life. My siblings — no, my whole family! — were either missing or no longer living. I was alone in a house that was larger then necessary, even when there had been dozens of other people residing within its walls.

My insomnia was the only logical reason I could scrape up for my current situation. Hazel oculi pried away from the smooth, lacquered surface of a table and I directed my gaze toward the ceiling. I was practically falling over in my customary seat at the head of the table, shocked once more by the total solitude of the dining hall. Chairs stretched out in front of me on either side, aligned perfectly and .. completely empty. My left hand shot up instinctively to press index and thumb against the bridge of my nose, immediately cutting off the sting welling up in my eyes. It would not do to cry, even if no one was around to witness such a moment of weakness.

Next to my right hand was a saucer and a tea cup, filled with the steaming liquid it was designed to hold. No milk, but certainly more sugar than I should have been drinking. Without a second thought I seized this container and lifted it to my lips, downing a long gulp and reveling in the way my nerve endings screamed from being scorched so brutally. If anything, it reminded me that I could feel something; if not sadness, than minor pain. I took another sip.

I had allowed my honey-dyed hair to free fall tonight, my scalp sore from donning my signature pigtails all day long. It was brushed but still somehow messy, and I had a hard time ignoring the locks that fell across my line of vision. Still, I refused to pick my chin up from the tabletop; instead, I closed my eyes. Perhaps, in my silk pajamas as I was, I would be able to fall asleep here? I doubted it, but one could always hope.[/blockquote][/blockquote]
[/font]

[→ Alterity]

For the second time I had stepped foot in the Kikkawa Compound, having only done so once before a year prior. There was no nostalgia or coming of memories that one would usually have to a place of such significance for their family. No, Sohryu hadn't grown up here, there was none such emotional response. He was only filled with apathy as he approached the properties' door, opening it and letting himself in as he would — this tiny privilege of being of the family the only one he observed.

As he had noticed before there were hardly ever any people around, and as such he didn't really much care to call out his prescience but rather just strolled where he wanted. The first stop he would make on his stroll would be to the rooms, placing his belongings in a room that looked unoccupied before going to other sections of the household. Of course, the unfamiliarity he had with the house made this harder than it needed to be, Sohryu finding himself lost in hallways and hallways of nothing but randoms rooms.

The dining hall wasn't a stop he was planning on making, getting lost enough to somehow end up there and be rather pleasantly surprised. At the head of the table his one usable eye transfixed on the girl who seemed to be falling asleep. Of course, because she was the only other member of the family he had ever readily identified with on any level he noticed and knew who she was almost immediately. Rather than calling out he watched for a bit, committing such an interesting scene to memory — for whatever reason.

"Time for bed?"

He flashed a small stereotypical smile as he leaned heavily against the door-frame.

[⌈ addy ⌋]

I ONLY STAND TO BREAK YOUR HEART,
YOU CAN TELL IT BY THE WAY I RUN AWAY.

[/size][/color][/center]

On any normal day my senses were quite sharp; I would have at least sensed the presence of another when their eyes had not left me for so long. But I was too engrossed in my own thoughts and realizations to care about my surroundings to a healthy degree, which in this case was probably a good thing. Had I heard someone roaming about the compound without permission or making their reason there known, Ojiru would have demanded compensation for the insult. I did not want to be cleaning up blood or, similarly, dealing with the consequences of killing another Kusa resident.

That said, the moment a voice lilted out I was shocked beyond reasonable belief. My nerves burned and my body jumped; my head snapped to a comfortable angle and turned so that my gaze could lock onto the intruder. I had not spilled my tea, but that was not my main concern — my heart was racing in my chest, beating relentlessly against my ribcage. The look on my face was probably priceless at this moment, the color drained from fright and my eyes wide.

Then I realized just who it was who was speaking to me. The smile was the first thing my brain processed, and ironically my heart picked up its pace. I was embarrassed, but I managed to keep myself from blushing; he wouldn't have had time to study it even if I had. I was up out of my seat in a flash, the teacup left behind on its saucer, and traversed the length between us as quickly as my shinobi training would permit me. I did not care that this, too, was a sign of weakness.. all I could focus on was the warmth of his body when I threw my arms around him and buried my face against his chest.

"S-Sohryu-sama! You're back!"[/blockquote][/blockquote]
[/font]

[→ Alterity]

Sohryu was barely given time to react to Riou's own reactions to his prescience before she seemed to bolt to him. Of course, instinctively his arms extended forth to catch her in an embrace as she traversed, hugging her when she finally did reach him. The embrace managed to force his heart to flutter, it bringing back much memories of times long past more efficiently than the house could. An otherwise idle hand which had been embracing her, rose to her head and ruffled her hair gently.

"I am back. It's been almost a year, huh? Things don't seem to have changed here much."

Of course Sohryu himself knew the image his young female Kikkawa companion needed to upheld, and within a few minutes time took a step back, stretching as he did. She couldn't have someone coming in and seeing her in such a compromising position. He didn't want to have been the person to have put her in such a position either.

"How are you doing, Riou? Besides being all sleepy of course."

Again he flashed that stereotypical smile, as he'd make his way to the table to seat comfortably and allow for them to catch up on things that may have happened during his year-long down time. Though, he didn't have much to say, and was more interested in what may have befallen her.

[⌈ addy ⌋]

I ONLY STAND TO BREAK YOUR HEART,
YOU CAN TELL IT BY THE WAY I RUN AWAY.

[/size][/color][/center]

He ruffled my hair like I was a child, and while it sparked some indignation inside of me, I found that I enjoyed the attention. I had not been a child for years now, nor had I been given the chance to act like one. That right was stripped from me the day Kakera informed me of Gansaku's death. So instead of making a comment about the action, I instead focused on the affection behind it, wishing that he would have continued to do it. Who cared if my hair was messed up? Not I, certainly!

Needless to say that I was disappointed when he pulled away from me, but as my hazel eyes flickered up to him he stretched. This seemed to be a dismissal of my bodily attention, and I managed to piece together again my composure, even going so far as to stand erect and proper as per usual. Personally, I did not think the position had been compromising, yet I understood that I must not be so openly emotional. That right, too, was gone — in my own home and especially in public situations. I lifted my right hand as nonchalantly as possible and ran my fingers through my hair, straightening it as best as I could manage.

"Things have not changed, honestly. I doubt that they will change in a month, or a year, or even five years from now. It seems impossible to bring this family back from the brink of extinction. I'm okay, though, just .. realizing things. I have not slept recently."

I whispered this even as he brushed past me and took a seat, and despite my better instincts I found myself following and claiming the one beside him. Though I was indeed 'sleepy,' his presence was enough to excite me into activity, and I knew I would not randomly pass out. Think of how embarrassing that would be! No, instead, I lowered my eyes to the tabletop and sucked in a long, deep breath; a thought hit me in the same moment, knocked that oxygen from my lungs in a quiet rush.

"Sohryu-sama, um. How long do you plan to stay here..?[/blockquote][/blockquote]
[/font]

[→ Alterity]

Sohryu hadn't quite decided on that either, on how long he'd plan on staying this time. Last time he had only been here for less than a day before leaving, which left a rather large hole in his heart, not liking the 'random' terms from which he'd left, without having said a word. This time there was no business from which had to attend, no pressing matters to address, he could stay here as long as he wanted — given Riou wanted him there.

"As long as you'll have me." He quickly responded to her question, looking to her for an answer as soon as he replied.

Riou hadn't changed much since the last time they had seen each other, but that didn't guarantee she'd even want him there at all. It could be just as likely she had pressing matters to attend to, for whatever familial things she had to do, or matters of the village. If this was so he'd once again become nomadic for a time and go anywhere and everywhere. Though, most obviously, he'd prefer to be here.

He eye'd the tea she had been drinking earlier, leaned over the table, and slid it back to her after taking a sip to survey it's contents.

[⌈ addy ⌋]

I ONLY STAND TO BREAK YOUR HEART,
YOU CAN TELL IT BY THE WAY I RUN AWAY.

[/size][/color][/center]

The quick way in which Sohryu responded made me feel fluttery inside, though I could not place the exact emotion. I felt my lips quirk at the corners, and suddenly I was smiling broadly down at the table, like it had just made me the happiest woman in Kusagakure. That wasn't the truth, of course, but someone in the room with me had provided momentary delight to surge through my system. I had not smiled genuinely since the last time he left me, without a word and after such a short time. Not that he was at fault for my sadness, just that I had no reason to be happy.

"What if I didn't want you to leave.. ever?"

My voice was barely audible, but I knew he would hear me since we were so close together. I focused on the sound of my teacup being coaxed toward him, the sound of a sip, and quickly snapped up the cup when it was presented to me. Instead of continuing immediately in my speech, I procrastinated with a long gulp of the overly-sweet liquid. It helped, too, that the porcelain container did well to hide the sudden rush of blood into my cheeks. It could not last long — as the cup was set back down, I turned to face him and even locked my eyes onto his face. Steady, sure; it was a wonderful facade.

"I want you to be the Head of the Family beside me, Sohryu. I can't do this alone anymore, I -- I need someone. You.. wouldn't have to do any work, really. Just.. stay. Help me lead."

I waited to see his reaction, manually working through my body to shut down my emotions as best I could. If he refused, I did not want to feel sad again, and it was the answer I expected. Why would he stay with me? He had been gone for so long that he probably had people to go back to, a lover or friends that would miss him. Still, I had to ask! I was sick and tired of regret.[/blockquote][/blockquote]
[/font]

[→ Alterity]

The way in which she had constructed her comment, to blunt and direct had thrown him off a bit. It didn't really hit him as to what she was saying for a good few seconds. He manged to regain his composure though, and formulate a response in his head, he didn't even need to think it through, it was almost instinctive.

"Stay here forever? That'd be like a dream."

Hopefully she'd know that translated into something along the lines of, 'I would love to', without directly saying such. He too was still a bit apprehensive in showing his overwhelming joy to her statement, and the one that followed. She wanted him to stay and help her lead their family out of obscurity? He almost felt he had to say no, before he rethought that quickly.

The reasoning in why he wanted to say no were rooted in the fact he was never a major part of the family. He was quickly ousted, and had lived pretty far away from any of the politics involved in the family business. However, there was something even stronger compelling him to say yes. Sohryu could tell that Riou wasn't particularly happy in her position, or at the very least it was seriously taking it's toll. This fact was ever stronger than his own reasoning to decline.

"Stay here and help you lead? I have noticed how this job has been taking it's toll on you Riou. I am willing to help if you need it, for you and your sake."

[⌈ addy ⌋]

I ONLY STAND TO BREAK YOUR HEART,
YOU CAN TELL IT BY THE WAY I RUN AWAY.

[/size][/color][/center]

"Stay here forever? That'd be like a dream."
-- Sohryu.

I felt a tingling sensation. It started in my fingers and spread to the rest of my body, and was gone just as quickly as it had come. Simultaneously my breath caught in my throat and I felt almost sickeningly happy, sure that I was dreaming. I hid the trembling of my hands by shoving them into my lap, my gaze flickering down to the floor in the process and breaking our eye contact. The emotion was quite apparent in my eyes, and I wasn't sure if I wanted him to see the way he affected me. It was devastating, but Sohryu had always been my best friend, even though he had been gone most of our lives. A bond did not break just because you did not get to see someone very often, even if you could manage to mute the relationship and not think about them.

"You will.. stay?" I paused, shaking my head to clear it as best as I could. There was no use in repeating something that had already been made clear. "This is more than just a job to me, and yes, it has been taking a horrible toll. I can't sleep! I want you here with me; you're the only one I would ever ask to help me lead the family. No one else will ever be good enough."

There was more behind that statement than I had meant to reveal, and suddenly my cheeks had flared up to a more noticeable hue. I really couldn't play it off or change the past, though — I could only push forward and hope he would not comment on it. My hand slid across the table and I hooked my pinkie through the handle of the cup. It was surprisingly light, and when I lifted it to my lips once more I only managed a tiny sip before the container was completely empty. Not that it mattered, the sugar I had added into the mix was already making me jittery and less tired than I had been before Sohryu arrived.

"I realize it sounds silly, Sohryu-sama. But you're my best friend; you're strong, intelligent, and charismatic. You would be perfect to lead, and I think the remaining family members will feel comforted by the presence of a male leader once more. You know? It's really sexist, but the politics here.. they're quite clear."[/blockquote][/blockquote]
[/font]

[→ Alterity]

Her flattering was hard to ignore, and get off of his mind. She had worded things to make him out to be so great, though he had been gone for so long. He idled the thought that this was a function of such a deep seeded relationship, that they could so be embossed with one another that time away meant little to nothing. It only made things more complicated that he thought of her the same way, only he was a bit more adept at hiding his emotional response. Though he did have a brief moment of release, smiling in a much more warmer way than usual to her comments.

"I agree the politics of such a thing are screwed up, but you put yourself down. You're much more capable than I. I will help you all I can, but I think if you follow this through it will have better more longer lasting results than I could ever hope to do as a figurehead of sorts."

Sohryu didn't hesitate to speak his mind on this occasion, because this was what he had really felt. Riou had lead the family all this time since Gansaku's death, and had led it to the best of her abilities. If no one saw that she was the most capable person to do the job — much more than he, that sex didn't matter, and that she was the only one that would lead them successfully to the future than perhaps the Kikkawa deserved to live in obscurity.

"I'll stay as long as you'll have me and help you all I can." He repeated himself, to get used to the notion himself.

[⌈ addy ⌋]

I ONLY STAND TO BREAK YOUR HEART,
YOU CAN TELL IT BY THE WAY I RUN AWAY.

[/size][/color][/center]

I did not mean to be so blunt with my flattery, but something about being cut off from contact with other people for so long had made me coarse. Either I showed no emotion at all or far too much; the latter was true for this particular case. Still, he did not seem to be put-off by my revelations, and I was even granted with a smile that made my heart skip another beat. At this rate, I wondered if I would die being around him for .. well, forever! If he did really stay this time. I trusted he would not disappear without at least a warning this time, given he had just said he would stay.

"I know I put myself down, but it is still truth. The remnants of our family are all relatively young, so they are more open to new ideas, but the fact is that we've never had a Matriarch. It will take time for them to get used to it, and until then, I think it's a good idea if you stand beside me. Then everyone else will have to call you Sohryu-sama, too!"

Despite myself I smiled, my brown eyes lighting up brightly at the idea. I had always called him that, though in truth my status in the family had been higher — even before I became the Head. It was fairly ironic, but I acknowledged that I felt more secure when I had someone to rule over me, even in theory. Calling him Sama was a way to provide that comfort without a physical dependency or awkwardness. It was still downright weird of me, but he never seemed to mind one bit and I did not plan to stop now that I was actually entitled with that honorific myself.

"It also means you get to sit with me at the table! Fuu~ This is cool!"

I motioned quite plainly toward the duo of chairs at the head of the table. One had previous been for the Head of Family and his wife, but rough times called for newer and drastic measures. There were not enough Kikkawa left to fill the absurdly long dining and meeting table, but upholding order was still a crucial point in their relatively smaller family. If one could count on pride and structure, one would grow to have pride in himself and be structured. That was what Father had always told Gansaku and myself, and I planned to stick by it.

My excitement was childish, but I was no longer a child in the least. As if to prove this fact, I leaned across the gap separating us and pressed a light, chaste kiss to Sohryu's cheek.[/blockquote][/blockquote]
[/font]

[→ Alterity]

It was true that when Sohryu thought of the times he had been here before to the death of Gansaku there had always been two seated at the head of the table. The Kikkawa family was very traditional, almost medieval in it's ruling practices. The leader and his wife led the rest of the family almost like a kingdom, they presiding over the rest of the family as a duo, both entitled to make important decisions. However, where did this place both Riou and Sohryu? They weren't exactly lovers, though there was some room for confusion on that thought both on their parts, and when they would come to lead together.

Such would only deepen as she planted that kiss on his cheek. He of course wasn't expecting it at all, rather deep in thought about the situation prior to that one, though suddenly drawn out of such. For a second he was stunned, almost to the point of looking it. However, with his mastery of composure he managed to shake free of that, only to reveal a light blush of his own. In all his travels and all of his years he hadn't ever come in contact with a woman like that at all. It was a new experience.

He almost didn't know what to say after that, but tried to push the conversation along, searching in his mind for something to say.

"Where are all the others? Who is still around?"

[faull]

I walked into the compound. I have been searching for my sister for days and I had finally found her but the problems was whether or not she would believe that it was him or not. It wouldn’t matter. As long as he had a home to live underneath. I walked into the compound I turned around and looked around to see the surroundings of my new home. How exotic from what I used to live underneath. It used to be just a shack in the middle of nowhere but now it was a big exotic and beautiful compound of my people. Signs of a green sign stood everywhere and I believe it to be the family crest because mom had it hung over top of the door. I sighed. Let’s see if anybody is home.

I opened the compound door to find that there were two pairs of shoes. One male’s and one female. I removed my sneakers and proceeded forward. The compound was as beautiful inside as it was on the outside. I turned and spun to see my new home and found that there was no one to be found. I sighed but my hopes were not down. I kept advancing. I walked around and soon enough I could hear voices. They were muffled so I could not hear what they were saying but they were definitely voices. One female and one male. Knowing that I was intruding I stepped quietly towards the source of the voices.

"I want you to be the Head of the Family beside me, Sohryu. I can't do this alone anymore, I -- I need someone. You.. wouldn't have to do any work, really. Just.. stay. Help me lead."

[/i]

It was a voice that resembled my mothers. Was this the voice of my sister? I was thrilled as I crept closer to where they were staying. My footsteps were silent as I had learned how to keep silent as I had hunted before in my childhood. Soon after my supposed sister stopped talking a husky voice came forth and began to speak

"Stay here and help you lead? I have noticed how this job has been taking it's toll on you Riou. I am willing to help if you need it, for you and your sake."

[/i]

I smiled. At least she had a friend. I never had a friend. Not since mom had died. Their conversation continued and compliments were said. What to say to such things? They continued to converse about other political matters and finally one question came up that I had been asking myself a long long time.

"Where are all the others? Who is still around?"

[/i]

I sighed. This was the time for me to reveal myself. I stepped out of my hiding spot and looked over. Surely I would surprise the two but I would speak clearly and quickly so that no harm could be done or intended harm.

I do not know where others are but my mom had been killed a few years ago. My name is Kikkawa Shunsouke

[/b] [/blockquote][/font]

[⌈ addy ⌋]

I ONLY STAND TO BREAK YOUR HEART,
YOU CAN TELL IT BY THE WAY I RUN AWAY.

[/size][/color][/center]

If I was being honest with myself, then I had to admit that I had thought about the implications that would be made if he sat beside me as the secondary leader. People would assume we were lovers at the very least; the thought pleased me, but I would neither admit this nor show it. The fact was that Sohryu was the best candidate to help me, now that Gansaku was dead and Matsu's line of the family was terminated.

Maybe the kiss had been too forward a show of my gratitude, but as I said, I refused to live with regret. If I could not do what was needed to make myself happy, what reason was there to even be breathing? He appeared flustered for a moment, his cheeks a shade that matched my own, and I quickly memorized the expression and stored it away for later. Who knew if I would ever see such a handsome picture! His question was distracted and worked to sober me up almost entirely, for I leaned away from him and back into my chair, pondering it for a moment.

"There--"

"I do not know where others are but my mom had been killed a few years ago. My name is Kikkawa Shunsosuke."

Shocked at the presentation of a new person, I turned to face the dining room's entry way, my eyes widening at the sight I beheld. This small child proclaimed himself a member of the Kikkawa Family? Indeed, his voice .. it reminded me of when Gansaku was a child. He had always been older than me, of course, but only by a year; my memories were fairly clear when it pertained to him and Beppin. I sucked in a deep breath, steadying myself for this encounter.

The boy only appeared to be eight, maybe ten at the very oldest. He had the same facial features that I could recall in my elder brothers around that age, not to mention a lot of characteristics common to the family as a whole. I could have asked who his mother was — chances were that I had known her at some point, but it did not matter. He said she died, and I could not bring myself to find out exactly who it was I had lost now. Instead, I stood up slowly and took a few dignified steps toward him.

"If indeed you are a Kikkawa, tell me what this symbol represents?" I pointed to the Kikkawa Crest that was sewn onto the bust of my pajamas, as it was with all of my clothing. "You would know. Your mother would have had pride in us."[/blockquote][/blockquote]
[/font]

[→ Alterity]

Sohryu knew his momentarily lapse of emotional response would be remembered by Riou, he couldn't help himself though, he couldn't be in total control at all times. Just as Riou was about to answer his question and devulge some information on the whereabouts of everyone else of the family, she was interrupted by a small voice. The voice was so small that before he had even laid eyes on the individual Sohryu knew it belonged to a very young child.

As he turned and transfixed his attention to the young child he wasn't surprised. It didn't take much analytical prowess to see the kikkawa blood within the boy, he had all the usual features associated with such. However, Riou seemed to need more confirmation, prompting him to answer a question of what the crest meant. Of course, Sohryu knew the answer. There was a level of skepticism to be applied when thinking if the kid would know the answer. The child was after-all, very small, and seemingly without much guidance. It was possible he didn't know but still belonged.

"Hmm. Will he know?"

[faull]

"If indeed you are a Kikkawa, tell me what this symbol represents?"

I smiled. What a question it was? I had recalled my mother speaking to me of our symbol. It was rainy day in the land of sound when I asked her what it meant and she just smiled as she stroke my hair. She told me taht it represented life and our family's affiliation with the nature all around us but there was one thing that it represented which stood above the rest.I smiled as I walked slowly towards the two of them and sat down. They were still alittle bit edgy but it was comfortable to be with my family.

"It means a lot of things. With the nature around us and the relationship we have with nature. it also explains how we are entiwined with elemnt of water and the calmness of it but the most important reason is the pride of our clan and symbolizes us as Kikkawa. It is what shows others of our family and the pride we have of what blood that runs in our veins."

[/b]

I smiled as I stared at the girl infront of me. She resembled my mother. Was she my sister? I was too nervous to ask her but it was a little nerve racking. I never actually had a family and these two people ifnront of me was the closest I had to a family which proved two things. i had been lonely far too long and I had a connection betweeen one of these people. My lips trembled as I uttered the next words out of my mouth.

"before my mother was raped and killed before my eyes she told me of a sister that I had. Please tell me. Has there anyone else come through the complex looking for me or my mother?"

[/b]

Tears continued to run down my eyes. The speak of my mother had terribly burdened me only because I was young and my mother was violated and killed before my very eyes. Tears streaked down my eyes as I moved my wrist across my face to wash it off and wipe it off. i had to stay strong. i was in the presence of the heir's of my family.

[/blockquote][/font]

[⌈ addy ⌋]

I ONLY STAND TO BREAK YOUR HEART,
YOU CAN TELL IT BY THE WAY I RUN AWAY.

[/size][/color][/center]

"Yes, I think that if he is truly one of our family, he would know."

I glanced passively over toward Sohryu, swallowing a smile in an effort to keep my serious demeanor in tact. It was a hard thing to do around him, but I refused to let him effect me in such a manner as this. I turned back toward Shun only when he began to move toward us, and remained standing when he took a seat at the table, my body stiff. While his features left no doubt that he was a Kikkawa, I could not simply accept someone I did not know with open arms into my home. It was dangerous, in this world, not to be at least a little paranoid.

When he spoke, however, my body immediately relaxed. Not only did the boy's voice remind me of Gansaku, but his speech was absolutely correct; I sat down into the chair I had occupied prior to his entrance. Looking him over, I realized that he was smiling at me, and it both unnerved and thrilled me. This was another member of my family! This child was related to me, at the very least in part blood — that was all I needed to love him as I had loved my brothers, sisters, and cousins. Suddenly his expression became sad and I leaned forward without realizing it, genuinely concerned for him.

"You are correct, Shun, about the crest. It stands for all of those things; perhaps more, but I believe we could never describe all the wonders of water. I am .. I am so sorry to hear about your mother, truly, but I am afraid that no one has looked for you. You see, our family's numbers were quite recently devastated and most of the older adults slaughtered. As for your sister, I do not know if she is still alive or not, but .. you are welcome to stay here. If you are a Kikkawa, then you are my family, too."

With a sudden surge of maternal instinct I lifted my hand, brushing any remaining tears from his cheeks as gently as I could manage.

"My name is Kikkawa Riou, and this is Kikkawa Sohryu. You don't have to worry anymore — you've got us." [/blockquote][/blockquote]
[/font]

[→ Alterity]

The boy's fate truly seemed to be grim before he met the Kikkawa. Sohryu didn't say anything as he explained himself and Riou responded. He felt truly sorry that he had to be born into such a chaotic environment, and witness his mother get slaughtered. It brought up idle thoughts of his own childhood, ousted from the rest of the Kikkawa society from a young age.

After Riou had finished her speech to the boy, Sohryu would stand and raise his hand to the boy's head, ruffling his hair in a brotherly sort of way.

"Cheer up, she's right. You got us now. The others too. ."

Of course he still didn't know of the others whereabouts, Riou never got to finish her sentence. Standing idlely, his hand still resting lightly on the boy's head he looked to Riou for the continuation of her sentence she hadn't gotten to finish before. There were so many rooms upstairs, and curiously there were very little that looked occupied. Where was everyone?

"Speaking of, where are the others?"