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Lock and Key	By : Wildfaerie Category: +S to Z > Tokyo Mew Mew Views: 706 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 1
Disclaimer: I do not own Tokyo Mew Mew or anything associated with it. Nor do I make any money off this story.

Chapter List
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- 2
- 3
Disclaimer: I do not own Tokyo Mew Mew or anything associated with it. This lil story is, however, mine.
“text” – Talking ‘text’ – Thinking “text” – Talking Telepathically.

Lock and Key
Chapter 2: Across Space

‘Gods and Goddesses his head hurt,’ moaned Kish to himself as he started working through another file of documents. He and Tart were currently holed up in the offices they shared with Pai going over as many ridiculous, redundant, and sometimes downright stupid, missives and proposals they could get through. They had been hard at it for almost four days. He didn’t know what was going to drive him insane first, the regular cries of pain from Ichigo or the copious amounts of emails and files from the council’s paperwork. Speaking of Ichigo, he glanced at the clock. On the third night he realized that all the attacks happened between the hours of seven and nine at night. It was currently seven-thirty, so it probably wouldn’t be long now. Sighing, Kish slumped back in his chair.

Glancing over at his cousin, Tart closed out of his personal holographic screen with a wave of his hand and floated towards Kish. Folding his legs, he set his elbows on his thighs. “Want to get some dinner? I could use a break,” he asked softly. To say that Kish had been moody lately would have been a gross understatement, though Tart couldn’t blame him. “After the next attack, sure,” Kish answered rubbing his chest. “How do you know it will happen again?” “Just a feeling,” Kish growled. Tart looked at his cousin closely, “You know, you’re either the noblest or stupidest man I know.” “And what in the Abyss does that mean?” Kish snapped. “Because only an absolute idiot would decide on a mate that was not only in love with someone else but is from another planet. Then leave that mate so they could be happy with that other person. I.E.: Stupid yet noble,” Tart finished with a shake of his head. “Once again, it wasn’t exactly a choice. It just happened. You’ll understand when it happens to you. You can’t choose who you fall in love with,” Kish responded angrily. “True, but we both know you could have locked down the mate instinct. Starting that process is a choice,” Tart snapped right back. Kish’s eyes flicked to Tart’s, “Maybe I didn’t want to stop it. I knew I’d never find anyone else like her. I knew I’d only ever want her. Besides, what’s done is done. No changing it now.” Kish suddenly yanked himself into a ball in his chair. One hand clenching at his chest and the other in a white knuckled grip on the arm of the chair. He clenched his eyes shut as he struggled to breathe.

Tart felt incredibly sorry for his cousin that was more like a big brother to him. Being highly empathic, he could feel just about everything Kish was going through. Normally, he’d have to touch someone to read them, but he’d always been very close with Kish and slightly less so with his brother. Besides those two, only his mother couldn’t hide her feelings from him. It was why when they had been on Earth, Tart had kept Kish’s secret. Only teasing to keep it light so the others wouldn’t notice the seriousness of those feelings. He could vividly remember feeling Kish in intense pain and had gone to his room. Kish had opened the door, looking none too happy. He had his hands wrapped around his upper arms and, though he was trying to use glamor to hide, Tart had seen the blood. They had battled the mews earlier and Ichigo had been unusually cruel to Kish. Clearly her words had hurt him worse than normal, and he had apparently dug his fingernails into his upper arms to take his mind off the rejection. Tart acted as though he didn’t see anything and told him, “That Old Hag sure seemed off today. Mentioned something about finally having a day off and it being ruined. So, I wouldn’t take it too personally.” After a shared gaze, Kish finally nodded and closed the door. He had returned to his old self by the next day.

He had no idea how Kish was keeping himself so put together. Tart could literally feel his agony and, in turn, Ichigo’s. To know your chosen was in such pain and calling for you, yet still unable to do anything. It must be like torture. There’s a reason his kind was incredibly careful with who they chose to start a mate bond with. A wrong choice could actually be fatal. Once the process was started, there was no stopping or choosing another. Only way out was if the chosen accepted the bond, they died, or someone else claimed them with a full mate mark. Otherwise, the separation and unfulfilled bond could end up leading the person to insanity.

Kish took a deep breath and lowered his legs which drew Tart’s attention. “That one seemed to last longer.” “I noticed,” Kish snapped weakly. “Pai’s working as fast as he can. I know it. We’ll get you back to her in no time. I promise Kish. And listen, I’ve decided when you leave, I’m going with you.” He tried to sound firm, but even Tart heard the falter in his own voice.

Wiping a tear from the corner of his eye, Kish quickly snapped them to Tart and eyed him up and down. “Only reason you’re bringing this up now is because you know I’m too weak at the moment to beat some sense into you. So, all I’ll ask is: Why?” “Because you two forget that I was young while we were stationed there and empathic. I actually made friends with them. Specifically, the monkey girl,” here Kish interrupted. “You mean Pillow?” “Pudding,” Tart automatically corrected without thinking. “I know,” teased Kish. Tart’s cheeks burned at the trap Kish had set. “Anyways, I miss them. Mostly her, but all of them. Even the Old Hag.” “Watch it brat,” Kish growled. Tart held his hands up, “Sorry. Couldn’t resist. But still. I’m going. Remember, I gave my life for her too cousin.” “I know. I was still trying to break out of my confinement so I couldn’t help her in time. So, thank you for that.” Kish sighed and ran a hand through his hair, “You do know Pai’s going to blow a gasket right?” Tart giggled, “I know, but I have an ace up my sleeve.” “You must really want to go if you’re willing to use your death card. So, tell you what brat. Let me break the news to Pai and you can hold onto your insurance policy a little longer. But you must promise to be on your best behavior while we’re on Earth and to follow my orders. Understand?” “Really? You mean it, Kish?” “Consider it a thank you for helping Kitten and maybe I’d just like the company in case things don’t go as I hope.” “You got it cousin. I promise to be good. Though most would be more worried about you,” Tart teased.

“That actually brings up the last part of this little arrangement,” Kish said seriously. “There’s more?!” Tart pouted. “Just one more thing and it’s very serious.” Tart could tell Kish wasn’t lying so he asked, “What?” “If this doesn’t go well for me, I need you to keep an eye on me when we return. If I come back alone you know what may happen. I’ve already talked to Pai, but if things get that far, I don’t know if he could actually release me to the Abyss after his trauma with you. I’d normally never ask something like this of you. But I need your word. If I get bad and Pai can’t do it. I need you to swear that you’ll help me to the Abyss.” Tart swallowed thickly. He knew what Kish was asking of him. So, he decided to step up and show just how much he’d grown up.

Dropping to the ground, Tart summoned his clack-clack weapon and placed it on the ground between him and Kish. Placing the toe of his boot on the weapon, he held his right hand above it, palm down. Surprised, yet deeply moved, Kish placed the back of his hand against Tart’s. “I swear an oath over my spirit weapon that should Pai fail, I will see to it that you are helped to the Abyss.” Tart finished the oath and flipped his hand over, waiting for Kish to accept. Kish turned over his hand and wrapped it around Tart’s wrist. “Oath accepted. And thank you,” Kish spoke, a lump in his throat. It was the highest vow a member of the military could make. If broken, Tart’s spirit weapon would be snapped along with any bonds between he and Kish. A spirit weapon was just that, created from a part of a person’s spirit. They were incredibly difficult to create and much more powerful than ordinary weapons. You could also only create one in your lifetime. They are the proudest symbol of a warrior and are unique to each individual.

Tart waved his hand, dismissing his weapon. “So, feeling better now? And if so, up to get some dinner? I’m starving.” Giving Tart a quick nod, Kish gingerly got to his feet. Slowly they floated their way to the palace dining hall.

Later that night, Kish teleported into Pai’s subspace hangar to check on his progress. An exhausted Pai was asleep at his work desk in the corner. Carefully, Kish wrapped a blanket around his shoulders and teleported home. He desperately wanted to know how close Pai was, but he knew he had been pushing himself nonstop for the past few days. He could at least wait a few more hours until morning.

Kish woke to a loud buzzing in his ears. Blinking, he tried to determine the source. It was much too early for any of his alarms to be going off, the sun wasn’t even up. Shaking the last of his sleep haze away, he realized it was Pai trying to push through his mental barriers. Dropping them enough, he heard Pai speak telepathically, “About time!” Pai snapped. “Watch it. I just woke up. What’s got you so uncharacteristically impatient?” Kish replied groggily. “The ship’s ready.” Pai’s reply had Kish snapping fully awake. “Be there in thirty,” Kish snapped in excitement before teleporting himself straight to the bathroom. Kish showered and dressed as quickly as he could before appearing downstairs in the kitchen to find Tart.

“You’re up early,” Tart said, munching on a piece of toast and something that resembled Earth’s peanut butter. “Go get dressed. Pai’s finished with the ship. I’m heading there now. By the time you get there I should have everything sorted with Pai,” and with that Kish left a hyper Tart stuffing the last of his breakfast into his mouth as he hurriedly flew upstairs.

‘Finally,’ Kish thought as he appeared in Pai’s hangar. With a quick search of the area with his mind, he located Pai on the bridge of the ship. “That was faster than thirty,” Pai teased when Kish appeared next to him. He may be considered the emotionless one of the three, but they were still family that had grown up together. And he may occasionally deny it, but he did love his obnoxiously annoying cousin. Kish grinned, “Excited! And I had to beat Tart.” Kish loved the rare moments when Pai let his guard down and acted more like the cousin he grew up with. “Why would…,” Pai cut himself off and crossed his arms. “No! Absolutely not! You both can’t ditch your responsibilities!” Pai’s voice had gone up an octave or two. He couldn’t believe these two. “Now Pai, just hear me out,” pleaded Kish. Drumming his fingers next to his elbow, Pai raised a brow, “I’m listening.” “You and I both know Tart was still awfully young when we went to Earth. And you know how emotional he gets, especially back then.” Pai just nodded for Kish to continue. “Well, you know he made friends with that Pudding girl. Even some of the other Mews treated him differently because they only saw his physical age. He misses them, just as I’m sure they miss him. Besides, you know how hard it was around here when we got back because of his age. People didn’t like to take him seriously. When we know it’s his empathy that makes him seem so immature. He lets others believe he’s an immature kid so he doesn’t have to deal with the darker sides of things. And you and I both know he’s much more mature than he lets on. So please Pai. Allow him this. The kid deserves it. Besides, like I told him, I could use the company if she still doesn’t want me.”

“As much as I’m enjoying you’re sniveling and begging, I had already agreed when you brought up the Pudding girl. Something tells me he’s going to be following in his cousin’s footsteps,” Pai stated in annoyance. “I don’t care what they say about you cousin, you’re the best,” Kish cheered with his trademark grin. “Be that as it may, I won’t give you the ship’s control codes until I have a promise out of the two of you.” Wh…,” Kish started, but Pai interrupted. “Perfect timing Tart. We’re on the bridge,” Pai broadcasted with his telepathy just as Tart appeared next to them. “I want you both to promise me two things before I let you leave,” Pai’s voice was heavy and commanding. Both Kish and Tart waited for him to continue. “Two months and not a day longer. You two get back here before two months have passed. But that includes travel time. I can keep up your council duties that long and I’m sure Tek can manage things at the Military Plaza for you Kish. Do we have an agreement on that?” Both boys nodded but Kish spoke up, “I give you my vow that we will do everything in our power to return here within two months’ time.” “Good enough. Now before you leave, you both get to go before the council this morning and explain your leave of absence. Kish, I don’t care what you tell them. If you want to keep your bond a secret, that’s fine and I won’t reveal anything. However, you will tell them you are leaving. Same with you Tart. I’ll support any reason you wish to give them, but you will give them a reason. And that goes for you and Tek as well Kish.” “Agreed, Pai. Now let’s hurry and summon the council so Tart and I can get going,” Kish couldn’t hold back his smile any longer. He was only days away from finally seeing his Kitten again.

“Three hours! Three blasted hours they kept us there!” ranted Kish to Tek. After the council meeting, Kish had sought out Tek to not only discuss his imminent departure but to also take advantage of their friendship and vent. They were currently at Kish and Tart’s place and Kish was chaotically lashing about his room while he packed and unloaded on Tek. Tek, being used to his friend’s antics, hovered out of the way with his legs folded and just watched. When there was finally a lull in Kish’s rant, Tek finally chimed in, “I don’t think you’ve ransacked that drawer yet.” Kish gave his friend a quizzical look. Tek smirked and waved his hand around Kish’s room, indicating the disaster zone that it had become. Kish looked horrified for a moment before flopping down on his bed. “Sorry old friend. Those senile old coots can royally piss me off sometimes. It should not have taken three hours for Tart and I to explain a two month leave of absence and that Pai has our full support to count as our votes on anything critical that may occur while we’re gone.” “You can’t fool me Commander General. Something else is eating at you. Spill,” Tek said as he took a seat beside his friend. Kish growled. He hated it when Tek used his title outside of formal settings. Mostly because they were as close as brothers, but also because when he did use it, Kish knew he was serious and wouldn’t quit prying. Kish closed his eyes and sighed, “What if she’s still in love with someone else?”

Tek understood what he meant. Kish had fully caught him up on everything involving the cat Mew. And he meant everything. Kish had quite literally poured his heart out after several rounds of Cynth Ale had loosened his tongue. “Then don’t go,” Tek stated flatly. “What?!” snapped Kish. “If you’re that worried, then don’t go. If you stay and ignore the pain, eventually you’ll get used to it and will continue on with your life. Sure, you’ll never have a mate, but you had already resigned yourself to that life. But if you go to her and she denies the bond, then you’ll more than likely slip into madness. Staying avoids all that and lets you have a chance at a semi normal life.” Tek knew he was being blunt and harsh, but it was for Kish’s own good. Kish had always been stubborn and hardheaded. So, the only way to help was through cold logic and to let Kish come to the conclusion on his own. Soft words, encouragements, and platitudes would only cause Kish to dig his heels in deeper when he got like this. “But she feels like she’s in so much pain. I can’t just ignore that,” Kish countered. ‘Almost there,’ thought Tek. “And who’s name has she been calling out?” Tek urged. “Mine,” replied Kish, matter of factly. ‘And final push,’ grinned Tek to himself. “Do you really think if she was with someone else that she’d be calling out your, another male’s, name? Wouldn’t she be calling for her chosen? Or was she a two-timer?” Tek saw the switch flip immediately in his friend. “Absolutely not!” Kish roared. “She’d never hurt someone like that. She loves and gives with all she has,” Kish defended Ichigo venomously. “Then you have your answer,” Tek stated calmly. Kish cocked his head then instantly deflated.

Tek couldn’t help but laugh, “Now that my illustrious Commander General has remembered how to use that brain he’s oh so famous for, maybe he can stop acting like a love sick pup and actually focus on packing. Or have you also forgotten that your leaving to see your girl in an hour?” “You can be a real manipulative prick, you know that? But thanks,” Kish said with a scowl. Tek shrugged, “It’s why you keep me around. Someone’s gotta keep you in line. Besides, we both know I’m the real brains behind this operation.” Tek’s eyes shimmered with mischief. Kish’s eyes matched as he lifted his lip in a smirk. “You wish.” “Fine. But I am definitely the beauty,” Tek conceded. “True. You were always the prettier one. But I’m clearly the one with the dashing good looks. However, you can keep all the admirers. I have a lost Kitten to find,” Kish winked before he resumed packing.

‘It is true,’ thought Tek. Tek had always been prettier than Kish. With his almost white skin, long black hair, and slightly delicate features, Tek was called beautifully handsome regularly. While Kish had always been a bit more rugged. Though much of their race had a bit of an androgenous look, Kish had always looked very masculine. It was something Tek had been jealous of when they were kids. They were both incredibly good looking, but Kish regularly drew just a bit more attention from the ladies. But what really ticked Tek off was that Kish never seemed interested. Oh, he entertained them occasionally, but messing around had never been Kish’s thing. Kish could have had any pretty little thing he wanted but kept ignoring them. It wasn’t until they were a bit older that Tek finally realized that one of the reasons girls were so drawn to Kish was because he had no real interest in them. Realizing he could never compete with that because he himself was too much of a womanizer, Tek decided to take advantage. He’d help Kish by distracting the pretty things off his hands, which Kish was more than happy to let him, and in turn Tek had access to even more beautiful young girls.

Tek had once asked Kish why he never seemed attracted to or interested in any of the girls. “Oh I’m attracted alright,” he had smirked. “But I’ll know the girl I want when I see her. I don’t want to waste my time on those simpering fools that keep throwing themselves at me. I want a girl with some fire in her spirit that will challenge me. Life’s no fun if it all comes too easy.” Tek had seen Kish in a new light then and they only became closer over the years, both remaining the heartthrobs of the community. And now they were probably the two most eligible bachelors on the planet. ‘Well, one now anyways,’ grinned Tek to himself. He couldn’t help but think of how many broken hearts he would be consoling when the ladies found out their beloved Kish was off the market.

“For the last time. Yes, Tart and I have everything. Yes, we promise to be back in two months’ time. No, we won’t reveal ourselves other than to the Mews and their allies. Yes, we’ll make sure to secure and dock the ship before searching out the Mews. Now will you please give me the flight codes so Tart and I can finish the pre-flight checks and be on our way?” Kish was starting to get more than a little annoyed with his cousin. “Oh, very well,” Pai gave in. Telepathically, he sent Kish the codes for the ship and, using his mind, began opening the roof of the subspace hangar. “Just be careful you two. We may have parted amicably, but that doesn’t mean they won’t be suspicious of you,” Pai said with concern as he looked away. The four of them were standing in the hangar before the ship. “We will. And I know you and Tek will take care of everything. Just don’t burn the planet down or listen to anyone named Deep anything,” Kish teased. He was giddy with excitement, but also incredibly nervous. He couldn’t stop thinking of Ichigo. “Oh ha-ha. Very funny. I wasn’t the one who went half away across the galaxy on his whim,” Tek shot back. “That’s cause you had to stay and help keep things running smooth here. Not to mention, I was chosen cause I was and am currently the best fighter,” Kish smirked as he flicked his thumb towards his chest. “Alright, enough you two. Let’s get going already,” pouted Tart. “You’re right,” Kish nodded. And, so, with a final round of hugs and handshakes, Kish and Tart teleported to the bridge of their ship.

Glancing over at Tart, “Ready brat?” “You know it,” grinned Tart. “Initiating launch countdown. Five…Four…Three…Two…One…” Both Kish and Tart flicked switches and pressed buttons along the console before Kish pulled back on a large lever between them. They lifted out of the hangar and just before Kish punched it into hyperdrive, he heard Pai’s voice in his head. “Good luck and bring her back to us.” “That’s the plan! And I’ll be sure to give that fish girl your regards,” replied Kish happily and teasingly.

Tek and Pai watched from the hangar below as the same ship that had returned from Earth just under four years ago seemed to stretch unnaturally long for a split second before disappearing into hyperspace, returning to Earth once again. Tek threw his arm over Pai’s shoulders, “Don’t worry. They’ll be fine. Kish may bend the rules more often than not, but he’s got a good head on his shoulders and an even truer heart. Not to mention he’s about as stubborn as it gets. If anyone can get the girl, it’s him.” Pai chuckled darkly, “That’s part of what I’m afraid of. You think Kish is a handful now. Just wait. Those two are cut from the same cloth, I swear. There certainly won’t be a dull moment if and when she gets here.” “Then I for one am looking forwards to it. All Bright knows we could use a little excitement around here,” countered Tek. Pai rolled his eyes and shrugged off Tek’s arm, “And you’re just as bad.” “Yup!” Tek said popping the ‘p.’ “Now let’s go get a drink. We’re gonna be pulling double duty for the next two months. Might as well make a night of it.” “Fine, but first two rounds are on you,” Pai responded as he closed up the hangar. “What!? But why?” pouted Tek. “This was your idea. And I’ll be pulling triple duty. Stepping in for both Kish and Tart. You’re just stepping up for Kish.” “Oh fine. Off we go!” Tek tucked his arm through Pai’s, and they both disappeared.

Five days later and Kish was going completely stir crazy. He had managed to keep himself mostly busy the first few days by running flight simulations to chart the fastest possible route to Earth. But now the quickest route was already locked into the computer, so he needed to find something else to occupy his time. He started imagining scenarios on how he was going to approach Ichigo. How to find out what was happening and to possibly explain the bonding. He thought of what he would say about his feelings. But that had led to a spiral of fear and nervousness that made him depressed and moody. He had gotten so bad that Tart had stomped into his room and slapped him across the face to snap him out of it. His depressing wave of emotions had been eating at Tart and he had had enough.

Kish’s eyes flicked to the navigational screen. Approximately three days and six hours left until they reached Earth and, more specifically, Tokyo. Pulling himself to his feet, Kish stretched his arms out over his head, twisting and popping his back and shoulders. Locking his hands together behind his head, he made his way to the training room. It had been a suggestion from Tart when he had literally slapped him out of his depression. A suggestion that was most welcome for Kish had completely forgotten the room was even there. He hadn’t had much use for it on the initial trip to Earth. Spending most of his time dealing with the Mews, following Ichigo, or working in the lab developing better and stronger infusers.

Exiting the bridge, Kish made a left. The ships layout consisted of three main corridors that were laid out like an inverted acute triangle. A corridor laid parallel with the bridge, and you could make a left or right when exiting. Taking a left like Kish, put the entrance to the infirmary on his right. He’d spent more time than he cared to think about in there. And he had the scars to prove it. The Mews may have only been teenage girls, but they could pack a punch when they wanted to. If he had made a right, the ship’s kitchen and mess hall would have been on his left. Continuing that way, a left would of led him to the corridor containing the sleeping quarters. There were four that ran along the interior side. Each consisting of a sleeping chamber and a bathing area. The first belonged to Kish, then Pai’s, and finally Tart’s. The last one was left empty as most team’s usually consisted of four members. Their’s being an exception since they were family and complimented each other. On the right side of that corridor was the lab Kish shared with Pai. Kish had spent many hours splicing and researching the infuser’s DNA within that room. Coming up with all kinds of new horrors to send at the Mews, while Pai took notes and ran calculations. Just past the lab and the last door on that side of the ship was Tart’s hydroponic lab. There, Tart practiced and refined his special ability as well as grew some of their food.

Coming to the end of the short hallway, Kish hung a right. Directly to his left was a maintenance chamber that held space suits and repair equipment along with an emergency air lock. It was in case repairs needed to be done to the outer hull during travels. Though that air lock was seldom used because the main ship entrance was directly below the bridge. To his right was a narrow staircase that led to that entrance as well as the engine room that took up most of the belly of the ship. Continuing on, there were three doors next to the staircase. The first was a storage room for excess food supplies. The second contained excess medical supplies.

The final door held a storage room filled with all kinds of material scraps, raw elements, and miscellaneous components. Kish and the rest of his kind could use these raw materials to create anything that they may need. Whether for work, repairs, or leisure, as long as it consisted of the same base elements that they had access to, they could create anything. Anything as long as it wasn’t organic. He could use dead organic material like wood or bones to create something but he couldn’t create life. Not with his magic anyway. The infusers were created in a lab with a bit of magical manipulation involved. The only exception to this rule was Tart and his plant mastery. But even he needed living organic material like a seed to start with. Tart’s ability was a rarity for their kind which was one of the reasons he had been included on the mission despite his young age at the time. If the mission had been successful, he could have used his abilities to begin terraforming Earth more to their liking while the rest of the Cyniclons headed there. He would have massively stimulated the vegetation on Earth causing the plant life to reduce human’s cities and structures to rubble. Covering the decimation with forests and vines.

Kish entered the second and last room on the left side of the corridor. This was the training room. It was about the size of a large gymnasium. Every room on the ship had a base in reality, but most of the room was created in a pocket of subspace that the ship’s engine maintained, even when the ship was powered down. That way anything left in a room wouldn’t be destroyed by the room’s collapse. The far wall displayed all kinds of handheld weapons from broadswords and katanas, axes and maces, daggers and spears, and even some unknown to Earthlings like a strange double bladed sickle called a Criltar. There were a few long-range weapons as well like bow and arrows, throwing daggers, javelins, and a round bladed disc. But there were no guns of any kind. Sure his people had the technology, but they had banned anything of the type cenfuries ago. Those sorts of long-range weapons were designed solely for one purpose, killing. And while his people certainly weren’t pacifists, life was something to be respected. So if you planned on taking a life, you did so by honoring them with at least a chance to fight back or flee. Even if their hope was slim to none. The option wasn’t removed from them before a fight by using the cowardly weapon of a gun. Yes, they used long ranged magic attacks like Pai’s fans. But magic took skill and it took time, energy, and focus to cast. All things an enemy could take advantage of if they paid attention. Using too many spells could leave you weak and vulnerable much faster than hand to hand combat, so there was a give and take, and openings for an enemy to use as they saw fit.

Kish trailed his fingertips over the blades of several weapons. He had been well trained and was proficient in nearly every weapon on display, in both their use and how to counter. But there was one weapon he obviously preferred above all the others. Walking to the center of the room, Kish took a knee with his arms partially stretched out at his sides. Cool steel slid across his palms and his fingers curled around the hilts of his dragon sais. Though used more for defense and disarming, the sais were just as deadly when in the hands of a master. Taking a deep breath and clearing his mind, Kish shot forwards, summersaulting across the floor and jabbing his sais forwards. Jumping to his feet, Kish began putting himself through a series of drills. His feet danced across the floor. His body twisting, attacking, and defending against imaginary foes. His sais striking out like lightning or coming up to block, the blades flashing and gleaming under the lights. He’d been at it for about an hour when he noticed Tart leaning in the doorway watching him. Finishing a complicated move, Kish planted his feet. Spinning his weapons through his nimble fingers, he twisted them until the three prongs lay pressed along his forearms, “Since you’re here, you might as well come spar with me.”

“But Kish!” Tart pouted. “You know I suck at hand to hand.” “All the more reason to practice with me,” Kish smirked. Dismissing his sais, Kish walked over to the wall of weapons. “After your clackers, you preferred tonfas right?” he asked with his back still to Tart. Tart sighed in defeat. He knew he wasn’t getting out of this. “Yeah,” he muttered. Kish nodded and spun around, tossing the weapons at a startled Tart who barely caught them. “First rule, always stay alert,” chuckled Kish. “This is gonna suck,” whined Tart. “Why’s that?” Kish asked. “Because. Not only am I terrible at hand-to-hand, but you’re probably the best on the planet. There’s no way I’ll keep up.” “Tart, do you really think I was born this skilled? It took a lot of hard work and determination to get where I am. I may have had a talent for melee combat, but I still had to train for years to gain the skill,” Kish said crossing his arms as he stood before Tart. “Yeah, but I’ve been training as well and still can’t compete with you. I’m the same age as you when we went to Earth the first time and as I am now I still wouldn’t of been able to beat you back then.” Tart was a mix of anger, frustration, and jealousy. Kish seemed to always be at an unreachable level.

Kish looked his cousin over, “Tell you what. Put your emotions aside for now and spar with me. If you manage to get a hit in, I’ll reveal a secret or two that will help you catch up almost instantly.” “You’re lying. That’s not possible,” demanded Tart. “Fight and find out. Or leave this room and continue to wonder. The choice is yours, brat.” Kish gave a slightly wicked smirk as he summoned his sais and took a defensive stance before Tart. Tart’s knuckles turned white as he gripped his tonfas. ‘Could it be possible,’ he wondered. Raising his eyes from the floor, Tart held Kish’s gaze defiantly, “I accept.”

They spent the next couple of hours sparring, but try as he might, Tart hadn’t landed even a glancing blow. “I told you it was hopeless,” panted a frustrated Tart. “You’re still broadcasting your movements too much. Drop your shoulders, widen your stance, bare your weight through your thighs and on the balls of your feet. Don’t stay so planted. Keep your eyes locked on your target but be aware of your surroundings. Don’t think too hard on what I might do but watch what I am doing. Eye flicks, muscles shifts, even breathing changes can all give a hint to what my next move may be. So, stop getting frustrated and focus. Too much emotion or feelings cause distractions,” Kish taught as he easily blocked another attack. “Is that why you lost so often to the Old Hag?” Tart teased. Kish’s step faltered as he rammed his elbow into Tart’s side much harder than he had intended. “Hit a nerve?” Tart taunted as he took a knee, coughing and wheezing from the blow. “While probably true, that was a low blow cousin,” Kish growled. “I’ll take any advantage I can get,” coughed Tart as he got back to his feet and started to circle Kish.

“Dirty tricks hmm? Two can play at that game,” Kish dodged an attack and spun around behind Tart, a sai pressed to his throat. “I wonder if Monkey girl has fallen in love with some human yet,” he whispered in Tart’s ear. As Tart brought an elbow back, Kish let go and danced away. Tart glared daggers at Kish. Kish shook the point of a sai at Tart, “Nuh-uh. No getting upset. You brought it to the table making it fair game. Now less feelings and more focusing.” They faced off again, but just as Tart was ducking under Kish’s arm and maneuvering in for a counter attack, Kish collapsed in pain, gripping his chest. Tart’s tonfa connected with Kish’s side, hard. Instantly, Tart dropped his weapons and took a knee beside Kish. Resting his hand on his shoulder, “Are you alright?” Kish nodded through gritted teeth, “Ichigo…” Tart understood. It was another attack.

Finally, the pain subsided, and Kish could breathe easier again. “The closer we get, the stronger these attacks feel,” muttered Kish as he folded his legs and sat down. Glancing at Tart, “And well-done brat. You managed to land a hit.” “Wait. That shouldn’t count,” countered Tart. “And why not? Didn’t you say you’d take any advantage?” Kish said, cocking a brow. “But that’s not what I meant. This isn’t fair to you.” “There’s no such thing as fairness in a real battle. So, sit down and listen.”

Doing as he was told, Tart sat down in front of Kish. “You want to know how to catch up to me in hand-to-hand combat?” asked Kish. Tart nodded. “It’s simple, you can’t,” Kish stated flatly. Reeling back, “What?! But you said..” Tart shouted as Kish held his hand up, palm out silencing him. “I know what I said. And I still mean it but listen. You can train for centuries, but you’ll never be equal to my skill. And before you freak out let me ask you something. Do you know why you prefer your tonfas and clackers over other weapons?” Thinking hard for a moment, “Not sure about my clackers, but I chose the tonfas because they were similar to your sais. I had watched you use those for so long that I knew I could master the tonfas.” “Then why not use sais yourself?” asked Kish. “Because the sais were your signature weapon, I wanted something of my own.”

Kish tilted his head thinking that over. “While that may have played a part, it wasn’t the full reason.” “Then why?” asked Tart. “The thing that makes my sais and your tonfas similar is that they are both primarily used for defense, like blocking or disarming. However, my sais are also blades. I can hurt and kill with them just as easily. While your tonfas can certainly hurt when you connect a blow, the chances of seriously wounding someone or killing them is incredibly low if at all. You, Tart, were never designed to be a real fighter. Your empathy doesn’t allow for it. Yes, you fight for what you believe is right and will lay your life on the line for it, but you’ll do all you can before actually taking another’s life.” Seeing Tart’s face, Kish quickly added, “Now I’m not saying I’m some cold blooded killer or anything. But when need be, I can flip that switch. Push everything aside and do what must be done. You don’t have that switch. Which, honestly, makes you far better than I already.” Tart stared at him in disbelief, “What do you mean?” “Simple. You’re fighting with a handicap, if you will, and can still hold your own. You’re constantly shifting your attacks to avoid fatal hits or to lessen a blow. That’s something you should be proud of.” “Then how can I get better like you said,” pouted Tart.

Sighing, “You don’t. At least not in hand to hand. Oh, keep up your practicing so you can when need be. But focus on your other talents. You can read people better than anyone I know. Use that. Your control over plants is unprecedented and unmatched. In battle you lean to your strengths. Use that empathy to gain trust or knowledge of weaknesses, and let your cousin handle the actual fighting. You be my support and conscience. Keeping my head in the game when my ego likes to appear. Or by giving me insight on our enemies. You can’t match my combat skills but you surpass me in other ways. And now that you see that and if you accept it, even your combat skills will improve. You won’t feel the need to prove anything anymore. You’ll be able to relax and let your instincts guide you more often. Because whether you can beat me or not doesn’t matter. Just the fact that at four years younger, you can still keep up with the Commander General is a huge accomplishment. So, stop doubting yourself and believe in yourself. I know I do.”

Tart was stunned speechless. It was rare for Kish to be so serious, especially with him. And he had never praised him so much before. He may be able to sense emotions, but this had completely broadsided him. His mind raced over everything Kish had said. It made sense and he took every word to heart. He was the Commander General. And was possibly the best fighter their planet had to offer. He’d be stupid not to listen to his advice, even if it was Kish. “Thank you, Kish. Uh.. Thank you. I’ll try to live up to your words, but already I feel much more at peace. I don’t feel like I need to compete with you and Pai anymore. I’ve always been a member of this team and I always will be, no matter what anyone says.”

Tart smiled as he hopped to his feet and headed to the door, but the clock above the door caught his eye. It was clearly visible to him and to Kish. “You knew!” “Knew what?” Kish hollered back. “You saw the time and knew you’d have an attack soon. That you’d be left weak and vulnerable. That’s why you kept pushing me to keep going.” Kish’s eyes twinkled and he gave his fang filled smirk. Shrugging, “Don’t know what you’re talking about,” he said before turning back to the weapon racks. Tart sighed, “Tek’s right. You’re an ass. But you’re also the best cousin anyone could ask for. And I’ll deny ever saying that.” With that, Tart left, but he could hear Kish’s laughter as the door closed behind him.
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