Shards
A Story of Bubblegum Crisis
By Shehulk
Warning: The following story contains adult scenes between women.
If you are not of a legal age or a liberal mind, then this is not the story for
you.
This takes place after Changes and I've now entitled the whole series 'BGC
Blues' making this part
BGC Blues 4 : Shards
Part 4
Linna drew a deep breath and let Inji link her to the system. Her stomach
lurched, but Inji was quick to fix that and soon she could look around her
without getting sick. < Okay. Now what? >
= You have to learn to recognize what you’re looking at. = Inji began to teach
her the differences between the strands and how to tell when her own signal was
being tracked. Linna found that after the first few times her stomach wasn’t
turning on her and she began to enjoy the sensations of being connected. <No
wonder Nene is so willing to link at every opportunity. >
Inji was relieved. Maybe now things would start to get back to normal between
them. = Now you need to learn how to defend yourself and Nene. =
Linna nodded and felt her appearance shift. She looked down at herself in
surprise. <What’s this?> She was wearing a suit of combat armor, not unlike her
hard suit. < Inji? >
= Mental perceptions, remember? When I said defend your mind automatically
defaulted to what it imagines to be the best defense. =
< Oh. Okay. So how do I defend myself from the security programs and viruses
and things like that? >
= With weapons. = Inji smiled as an impulse rifle appeared in Linna’s hands. =
Not quite, but it’s a good start. We can use that to build on. The important
thing to remember is that things here may appear one way, but the function they
perform can be very different. =
A shield formed in front of Linna and she took it cautiously. < What’s this? >
= An antiviral program. =
< This is a computer program? > The cool metal felt real and Linna eyed it
somewhat doubtfully.
= As I said, this is the human mind’s way of protecting itself. The actual
system has no form, no colors, no way for the human mind to function in this
environment. =
< All right. > She let the impulse rifle go and it disappeared. < So, are there
any programs that allow me to attack? >
Inji laughed. = A great many. I’ll teach you the different kinds and then you
can create them, as you need to. =
Linna frowned in confusion. < How can I do that? >
= All programs are written, Linna. Once you’ve learned how to do that then
it’ll be easy to form them. =
Linna was doubtful but willing to try.
****
Nene blinked and shook her head. “Could you repeat that?”
Linna smiled at her reaction and repeated. “I’m going with you.”
“You want to link? Why? I thought you hated it and hated the whole idea of it.”
Linna shrugged. “I’ll explain afterwards, okay?”
Nodding slowly, Nene linked to the system. She burst into the virtual world she
had come to love and turned to see if Linna was all right. Linna was nowhere to
be seen. Instead, there was a figure in emerald green armor standing beside
her. < Linna? >
Linna tugged off her helmet and laughed as Nene’s eyes widened even more. <
Surprised? >
< What is this? > She saw a shield and sword appear and stared at her lover in
disbelief.
< I just realized that my biggest problem with this was the fact that you were
so vulnerable. So, I had Inji teach me how to protect you. > She looked a
little hesitant. <You don’t mind, do you? >
Nene’s smile was huge. < No! Oh Linna! Thank you for this. > She hugged her and
Linna was startled at how real it felt.
She ducked her head and kissed Nene experimentally. The soft feel of her lips
made Linna’s heart speed up and she wondered how that was possible.
Inji was amused. = It’s all what the mind perceives. You know what kissing Nene
feels like so it’s very easy for your mind to provide the stimulus. =
Nene beamed up at her and winked. < We can even make love here. Wanna try it? >
Linna could feel herself flush and shook her head quickly. < I am nowhere near
ready for that Nene. >
Nene shrugged lightly and turned to the ocean of strands before them. < Okay.
Let’s go, shall we?>
As they slipped into the currents Nene couldn’t help remarking, < At least you
didn’t say never. >
****
Priss watched Sylia nervously as she walked towards her and tried not to flinch
as she sat down beside her. She forced herself to focus on the pleasurable
things that came with Sylia being so close and tried to work through her fear.
The smell of Sylia’s distinctive perfume teased her nostrils and Priss inhaled
deeply, drawing it in and remembering all of the times she had smelled its
fragrance. One night in particular stood out in her mind and she looked into
Sylia’s eyes with a warm smile.
Sylia had felt the tension fading from Priss, but she was puzzled by the smile.
It was soft and in some way she couldn’t define, slightly wicked. “What?”
Priss shook her head. “Just remembering the first time we made love in the
garage.” The smell of oil had mixed with Sylia’s perfume, as Priss had been
unable to stop herself from taking Sylia right there on the floor. Sylia had
protested for about a second, just until Priss had pulled her coveralls down,
baring her breasts. Sylia had complained about her back for the next two days,
but she was always grinning whenever she brought it up.
Sylia smiled as well, easily recalling one of the more memorable nights of her
life. “That’s a good memory.” She drew a breath and held her hand out, palm up.
Priss’ face grew serious and she stared at the empty hand before her. She
reached out with her own, cursing silently as she saw the fine tremor in her
fingers. Priss’ hand hovered over Sylia’s for a moment before gently settling.
Sylia resisted the urge to close her fingers and let Priss go at her own pace.
She was rewarded by her patience a few moments later when Priss’ fingers curled
and held her hand firmly.
Priss laughed hollowly. “That was easy.”
****
Sylia felt the light glide of Priss’ fingertips as they drifted across her
shoulder and down her arm. She matched the caress and Priss felt a shiver sweep
through her that had nothing to do with fear. Sylia smiled at the smoky desire
the lit Priss’ eyes, but steadfastly ignored it. Priss’ hand moved up to cup
her cheek and Sylia gladly echoed it.
****
This was the hard one; Priss reflected as she leaned closer to Sylia, letting
her body come into contact with hers. Priss slowly slipped her arms around
Sylia’s waist and felt Sylia’s arms come around her. The sudden wave of anxiety
made her freeze as memories of Sylia lifting her and throwing her down on the
bed filled her mind. Priss released Sylia with a gasp and backed away quickly,
falling from the couch. Sylia didn’t go to her, knowing by now that she needed
space until she could calm down. She felt tears of frustration well, but drew
them back in.
Priss buried her face in her hands and cursed long and loud. She had been so
close. Three weeks of progress, only to be knocked back by a simple hug.
****
Sylia felt the arms come around her from behind and smiled faintly as Priss
kissed her cheek. “Hmm. Someone is in a good mood.”
Priss grinned and retrieved a bottle of beer from the refrigerator as Sylia
continued to prepare the vegetables for dinner. “I guess I am.” She flinched
when Sylia turned towards her, a long chef’s knife in one hand. The bottle hit
the floor, shattering as Priss backed up automatically.
Sylia berated herself as she tossed the knife into the sink and knelt to pick
up the pieces. Priss joined her, but didn’t speak. < You fool! What were you
thinking? > Sylia’s silent litany was interrupted by the touch of Priss’
fingers on her chin, lifting her face.
“Don’t, Sylia. Don’t blame yourself. It’s me.” She looked so despondent that
Sylia reacted without thinking, dropping the glass and pulling Priss into her
arms. Priss felt no fear and was profoundly grateful that she had fallen in
love with a patient woman.
****
Nene heard Leon speaking to her in the real world and pulled out of Linna’s
arms reluctantly. <Duty calls, honey. I have to go. >
Linna sighed disappointedly. < We’ll pick up were we left off when you get
home. >
Nene waved as she disconnected and Linna looked down at herself and grinned.
= Planning on getting dressed or would you prefer to surf naked? = Inji’s
sarcasm made Linna chuckle softly. < It’s not like I’m going to run into
anyone. >
Inji felt the ripple in the system an instant before she saw Nene’s net
creature appear. =No, just him. =
Linna whirled and stared at the shadowed form in dismay. Instantly she was back
in her armor, her sword drawn. < What are you? >
There was a brief pause and he answered. < I think I was… human? >
< You don’t know? >
< I am… unsure. >
< How do you connect with the system? Where do you link? >
He seemed to think about this and it was several moments before he answered. <I
am the system.>
Linna scowled at his answer. < If you’re the system then how can you have been
human? What makes you think you were human? >
< I remember… sunlight. >
Inji was scanning the entity trying to discover its source. She was having
trouble narrowing the search though as every pathway seemed to carry the
signal. = He really may be the system, Linna. Or at the least, he’s so
interwoven with it that it’s impossible to distinguish the two. =
< What do you want?>
< I came to speak with the bright one, but she disappeared before I arrived. >
Linna tightened her grip on her sword. < What do you want to speak with her
about? >
< She asked me what my name was. I have none. I wish her to give me one. >
****
Nene moaned in horror as Leon pointed to the stack of files he had just dropped
on her desk. “You can’t be serious?”
Leon grinned as he backed away. “That’s what you get for daydreaming. Have
fun.” A Styrofoam cup struck him in the back of the head with surprising force
and he rubbed the spot as he joined Daley.
Daley shook his head as they headed for the locker room. “I’m disappointed in
you Leon. You’ve really been bombing out with the girls lately. You’ve been
going down hill ever since you found out that Priss prefers a more… delicate
touch.”
Leon shoved the door open and went straight for his locker, mumbling under his
breath, “I’ve been going down hill ever since I found out that Priss was a
Knight Saber.”
Daley was right behind him. “She’s a Knight Saber? How did you find out? When
did you find out? Why did you tell me?”
Leon groaned and glanced around quickly. “Keep your voice down! Forget you
heard that, Daley. I didn’t say that and you didn’t hear me say it,
understand?”
“But Leon…” Leon pounded the door of his locker with his fist, making Daley
jump. “Think about it Daley. If you knew who one of the Knight Sabers was then
it would be your duty to report them wouldn’t it? That would put an end to them
and then Genom would have a free hand in this city.” He rubbed his face and
wondered when things had gotten so complicated. “The ADP can’t deal with the
level of boomer malfunctions there are now. How do you think we’ll do it
without the Knight Sabers?” It had been a bitter pill to swallow, but Leon had
managed it. Now if he could just get over Priss and get on with his life he’d
be fine.
Daley slowly nodded. “I see. I guess I miss heard you.”
Leon pulled his shirt off and grabbed his shaving kit from the locker. “You
sure did.”
****
One row of lockers over another officer was ending his shift and as he
changed into his civilian clothes, he realized that he might just be able to
swing that new car after all.
****
Priss set the bag on the small table beside the door and took off her jacket.
Hanging it on the coat rack, she surveyed the room. “Sylia?”
Sylia appeared from the bedroom and Priss smiled a little. Her bare feet made
no sound as she padded across the carpet and the top few buttons of her blouse
were undone. The sleeves were rolled up, but the tail was still tucked into her
slacks. For Sylia this was as casual as she got. “How’d it go?”
Sylia’s smile was pleased. “Genom stock has fallen by over half and the
Kousotsu Corporation has snapped up a very large portion. Did you get dinner?”
Priss nodded and picked up the bag from the table. “Right here. Dining room or
kitchen?” She was already heading for the dining room when Sylia surprised her.
“Why don’t we just eat here?” Priss turned around to see Sylia waive a hand
toward the couch.
“Okay. Sure.” It was a suggestion that Priss had never expected Sylia to make,
but she was learning not to assume anything with Sylia anymore. Sylia slipped
into the kitchen and returned a moment later with a bottle of wine. They each
claimed a corner and began to eat. The silence that hung between them wasn’t
entirely uncomfortable, but they were each very aware of it.
Priss was wondering how long it would take for things to become normal between
them again when she realized something: This had been normal for them. She
began to flip through her memories of their time together and realized that
outside of discussing work and making love, they had never actually talked to
each other. Like dominoes, the memories tumbled one after another, each
touching off another.
Priss stopped eating and stared into space as she replayed their relationship
in her mind. She was embarrassed to find that she had hardly ever asked Sylia
about the myriad of little things that most couples know. Her favorite food,
her favorite music, what she hated and if she liked natto. Some of these things
Priss had found out over the course of their relationship, but it had always
been by accident, an afterthought. Other things began to occur to her and she
could feel her face flush. They had rarely ever gone out to eat together and
then it had always been with the others. Usually dinner was something they
ordered in or grabbed on the way home.
She looked down at the take-away boxes and suddenly lost her appetitive. Priss
set the carton down on the coffee table and picked up her wine glass. They
should be going out more, just the two of them. A familiar voice suddenly
echoed through her mind and Priss froze at Sylvie’s admonishing laughter.
“Come on, Priss! Get up!” Sylvie had been tugging hard on Priss’ foot,
trying to
drag her from bed. Priss had refused to release her grip from the tangled
sheets and buried her head under the pillows. “Why, for pity’s sake? Let’s just
get a pizza and stay here.” Her voice was muffled but Sylvie heard her.
“Because
I deserve dinner in a nice place once in a while. You know, a place where you
have to wear something other than your motorcycle gear?” She had thrown a
pillow
at Sylvie in reply. “Then I definitely don’t want to go. Besides there’s a bed
right here. Come on, Sylvie, let’s order in and then we don’t even have to get
dressed!” Priss remembered that Sylvie had then managed to drag her out of bed
and forced her to go out. They had had fun, Priss remembered and rubbed back
the sting of bittersweet tears.
Sylia watched Priss put her food aside and wanted to ask if there was
something wrong. She didn’t. She was afraid of the answer. Sylia refilled her
wine glass and wondered when she was going to stop treating Priss like glass.
She was afraid to approach her, afraid to say what she was thinking, afraid to
touch her, even in the most casual of ways unless Priss instigated the contact.
Sylia was terrified of bringing back memories, of causing Priss even more pain
than she already had. The last few weeks had been hell on earth, having Priss
so close, but they had agreed that if there were any hope in salvaging their
relationship then they would have to spend time together. Priss had moved into
the guest bedroom and now each night Sylia lay awake listening to the sounds of
her nightmares and knowing that she could not give Priss comfort because she
had caused them. In desperate moments she wished that they would just end it
and be done with it so that she could have a moment’s peace, but on the heels
of that thought came the sure knowledge that, for good or bad, she would still
be in love with Priss.
The silence continued as each wrestled with their own private demons.
****
High in the Genom tower the earth was shaking for the few unfortunate souls who
had not been fired after this latest fiasco. Quincy brought his fist down on
the desk with a thunderous crash and the metal gave way with a creak, leaving a
huge dent. “I want to know who they are! I want them dead! They have been the
thorn in my side for too long and now they have almost cost me control of Genom
itself!” The incredulous note in his voice made everyone take a step back.
A rather brave executive stepped forward and cleared his throat.
“S-sir?
We have just received word that one of our informants may know the identity of
one of the Knight Sabers. If his information is correct…” He trailed off, the
rest obvious.
Quincy sat back down and smiled at the man, making him freeze.
“Good. If
you’re right then there’s a promotion in it for you, but if you’re wrong,” He
lit a cigarette and stared at the man through the smoke. “… Then I will ensure
you a very long and painful death.”
Quincy dismissed them all with a wave of his hand and turned to
look out
over the city that should have been his.
****
Priss brushed a stray piece of lint from her dark slacks and adjusted the
crimson red blouse that she’d tucked into them. Absently threading a
silver-worked leather belt through the loops, she sat down on the bed. The low
heeled shoes were a far cry from her boots and her lip curled slightly in
disdain as she put them on. < The things we do for love. > She picked up the
black blazer that she had bought just for this occasion and was putting it on
when Arashi spoke.
= Sylia’s on her way up. = Priss thanked her for the warning and
reflected that the unique communication that existed between them had its uses.
She picked up the finishing touch for the evening and went out to greet Sylia.
Sylia hesitated outside the door of the apartment and rested her head
against the cool metal. She didn’t want to go in, she discovered. Didn’t want
to face another evening of stilted conversation and telling silences. Steeling
herself, she straightened and reached for the knob, only for it to open to
reveal Priss.
Sylia blinked in confusion at Priss’ warm smile and then her appearance
struck her. “Priss?”
Priss saw her bewilderment and felt a rush of pleased satisfaction.
Nice
to take her by surprise sometimes. “Hi.” She reached out and took Sylia’s hand,
drawing her inside. Sylia turned to face her as Priss shut the door. “What’s
going on?” She was caught completely off guard as Priss held out a single white
rose.
“Will you have dinner with me tonight?” A faint blush tinged Priss’
cheeks as she spoke but she was determined.
Sylia took the flower and looked at Priss. “I don’t understand.”
Priss’ smile was shy. “I want to have dinner with you. Out. I made
reservations at Lè Jardin.” She nudged Sylia in the direction of her bedroom.
“Go change.”
Sylia went automatically, her bemused expression pleasing Priss to no
end. Now to call the restaurant and make sure everything was in order.
****
Priss stared across the table at Sylia, unable to pull her gaze away
from the vision before her. Sylia had managed in an incredibly short time, to
go from beautiful to stunning. The deep blue of her dress made the rich brown
of her eyes seem to glow as the glitter of what Priss thought had to be
diamonds flashed at her ears. Her gown climbed faithfully up her slender form
and curved over one shoulder, leaving the other deliciously bare. Priss cleared
her throat and sipped from her water glass. “You look incredible.”
“I felt that I should make an effort since you so obviously had.” She
took in their surroundings with a slow studied scan and smiled at Priss. “This
place is beautiful.” Lè Jardin certainly earned its name she thought, inhaling
the heady fragrance from the hanging flowers that framed their small alcove.
The drape of leaves and blooms partial hid the patrons from each other,
creating a wonderful sense of intimacy. Only the quiet murmur of voices kept
the illusion from being total. “Why this place?”
Priss was studying the menu and silently cursing. < Why in the hell is
this thing in French? We’re not in France. > = It’s part of the atmosphere. =
Arashi laughed and offered to fix this little problem. Cursing silently, Priss
closed her eyes and pinched the bridge of her nose as her head whirled. She
looked up as Sylia repeated her question. “Huh? Oh, sorry. I liked the name and
the description sounded nice in the ad listing.”
The waiter brought them the wine list and then asked if Priss needed to
see the menu in Japanese. From the look on his face and the tone in his voice,
the human waiter evidently thought that it would be necessary and reached to
take the menu from her. Priss stopped him with one quick glare. She looked at
the menu again, and then turned to the waiter. “Détruisez votre attitude et le
salaire attention. We veulent Gratinée de Coquilles St Jacques et les 22
Château de Sancerre puis Terrine de Saumon Epinards aux. avec le Basmati de Riz
suivi du plateau de fromages et du verte de salade avec une bouteille de
Georges Duboeuf - de Beaujolais-Villages et finalement de Au Chocolat mousse
avec l'Alizé. Obtenu cela? Ou est-ce que je dois me répéter?.”
The waiter scrambled to keep up with Priss’ rapid-fire order, chiding himself
for making assumptions. “Aucun non, je suis très désolé!”
He left hastily and Priss turned to Sylia, her eyes filled with laughter. “What
an ass. Never thought I’d wish we had a boomer waiter.” Her amusement died as
she realized that she had ordered for both of them without asking Sylia what
she wanted. “Damn. I’m sorry Sylia. I got pissed off at that guy’s attitude and
forgot to see what you wanted. I can call him back and change it.”
Priss’ frustration was evident and Sylia felt warmth begin to melt some of the
ice inside of her. “No, it sounds delicious. But thank you for offering.” She
reached out and placed her hand over Priss’ on the table. “Thank you for this.”
She gestured to the restaurant with her other. Priss turned her hand up to
clasp Sylia’s in a firm grip. “I am curious as to why you asked me here.”
Priss sighed and wondered how best to explain. “I just got to thinking back
over the last year and a half and realized that we hadn’t done anything… well,
couple-like.”
“Couple-like?” Sylia wasn’t sure that she understood.
“You know, like dating?” At Sylia’s nod she continued. “I guess what I’m saying
is that I want to, uh, court you.” Priss felt silly saying it like that but it
was what she wanted to say.
Sylia was nonplused and took a few moments to rein in her emotions. She had
almost given up any hope that she and Priss would ever bridge the distance
between them and yet here was Priss, ready and willing to try it again. The
overwhelming sense of relief that swept through her brought tears, much to her
embarrassment.
Priss saw the sheen build in her eyes and leaned forward, tightening her grip
on Sylia’s hand as she spoke quickly. “We don’t have to, we can stay like we
are and work from there. Just forget I said anything.” Sylia shook her head
quickly, freeing the drops from their resting place. “Please don’t cry. I can’t
stand to see you hurting.”
The laugh that escaped Sylia was a little sad. “I’m not hurt, I’m happy. I
thought that you wanted to break it off, but tonight you’ve gone to great
trouble to do the exact opposite.”
They didn’t speak as the waiter returned with their salads and a bottle of
wine. When he left Priss picked up her fork automatically. She glanced at Sylia
and spoke softly. “I feel like I should apologize for the times that we didn’t
go out or do something special. Looking back, I must have come off as a
complete jerk.”
Sylia quickly shook her head. “Not at all, Priss. We’ve been rather busy this
last year and you’re not the only person in this relationship. I should have
made more of an effort as well. You and I didn’t exactly come together under
normal circumstances.” Her words triggered something within each of them,
bringing back the shadows of the past.
Priss smiled slowly. “Yeah, it wasn’t exactly dinner and a movie that
night on the bridge.” They had both been so miserable that night, each
staggering under the weight of things that needed to be said. The pressure had
finally reached its critical point. Priss remembered the wild passion that had
taken them both off guard, but not by surprise
“I still think that we would a have connected, even without everything
that happened.” Sylia’s faint grin made Priss feel good and she realized that
Sylia hadn’t been doing enough of that lately.
“I know what you mean. Things were getting interesting before the
accident.”
Time passed quickly as they talked about the past and about things that
they had never thought to ask each other. One subject led to another and they
ate little as the evening progressed. Finally, the waiter came to take away
their dessert plates and they were both a little disappointed that the time was
ending. Priss looked at her watch and realized that they had been here for over
three hours. “It’s getting kind of late.” She reluctantly signaled for the
waiter.
“Veuillez nous apporter le contrôle.” He handed her a small black
folder
that contained the bill and Priss did an admirable job of hiding her shock at
the total. She laid a credit card inside and handed it back. “I could buy a new
leather jacket for that price.” Sylia’s sudden laughter made Priss’ heart beat
a little faster and she knew that it had been worth every yen to hear her laugh
so freely again. “Let’s go for a drive.”
****
Nene was unsurprised to find him waiting for them when they
connected to
the system again. She smiled in greeting, but was very glad that Linna was
there. < Hello again. >
He nodded. < Hello. I… was unsure you would return. >
< Linna said you wanted to ask me something. > She wasn’t sure but Nene
thought that he seemed better formed this time, more definite.
< Yes. I would like a name. > The shy tone in his voice belied his
sinister appearance.
Linna had told her that was what her wanted, but still she was
startled.
<Why me? Why not choose your own name? >
< You are the first of your kind that I have encountered. There is
nothing else like you. >
Nene considered this. < All right. You want a name…how about Tsumari? >
< Tsumari…Tsumari… I am Tsumari. Thank you… Nene. > He bowed formally,
which suggested that his speculation of once being human might have been
correct. Then he seemed to dissolve before their eyes.
< Seiki? Inji? Any trace? >
= Nothing solid. Nothing traceable. =
Linna placed a hand on Nene’s shoulder and patted it consolingly. <
Well
I guess you’ve got yourself a new friend. >
Nene shook her head and turned to her. < I hope so, Linna. I wouldn’t
want him as an enemy. >
****
Priss down shifted as the Mercedes rounded a corner and then increased speed to
zip through a yellow light. While it was no motorcycle, the car definitely had
its good points. “Anywhere you’d like to go?”
Sylia forced herself to ease her grip on the seat and reminded her self
that Priss was an extremely skilled driver.
= Of motorcycles. = Taisei was amused by Sylia’s anxiety. She would and had
leapt off the tops of skyscrapers, had taken incredible risks every time she
put on her hardsuit and yet the simple action of Priss driving her was
terrifying her. = Why does this bother you so much? =
< Because I’m not driving! > She warned the nanos to disappear and answered
Priss’ question. “I don’t care.” Some of her tension must have been evident,
because Priss immediately slowed to a more sedate pace.
“Sorry about that. Are you okay?” Sylia nodded gratefully and Priss added. “I
hate to be driven by anyone else too. It makes me absolutely crazy.” Sylia was
surprised by the admission. She’d never said a word whenever Sylia had driven
them somewhere. One more thing they’d kept from each other.
They drove on in silence for a time and eventually came to the ocean. Priss
drove out toward what used to be Aqua City and glanced at Sylia in question.
They had had some rough moments there, but also some glorious ones. “I think we
should.”
Priss pulled the car to the end of the drop away and saw signs of current
construction. “Looks like those idiots are going to try it again.” There was no
moon tonight, but they could still see the huge waves rolling towards them.
Priss opened her door and stepped out into the warm night. The tang of sea salt
added to the feel of the evening and Priss tossed her blazer into the car
before perching on the front of the hood. Sylia joined her a moment later,
leaning back beside of her, but keeping a noticeable distance between them.
Priss wished for a cigarette at that moment. It was this kind of thing that was
making it so hard to reconnect with Sylia. Except for their touching sessions,
Sylia was going so far out of her way to give Priss personal space that she
might as well be on another planet. =Like Sylia knows that. Why don’t you just
tell her? = <Go away, you interfering tinker toy! I’m going to tell her right
now! >
=About time. =
< OUT! > The faint resonance of Arashi’s laughter faded and Priss turned to
Sylia. “There’s something we need to talk about.”
Sylia tensed and Priss sighed. “No. It’s not bad. I mean, at least I don’t
consider it to be.” She slid off the hood and moved to stand in front of Sylia.
“I really appreciate the space you’ve been trying to give me, but…” Priss
halted not sure how to phrase it so there would be no misunderstandings.
The lone eyebrow that arched at Priss’ silence was Sylia’s only visible
reaction. Inside she admonished herself for being so nervous.
Priss looked into her face and it occurred to her that maybe she didn’t have to
say anything. Here, tonight, at this place where they had taken those first
steps together, this was were it should begin again. Priss stepped closer to
Sylia, their breath intermingling in the humid air between them. Sylia felt it
brush across her face and something whispered softly inside of her. Priss’
hands lightly touched her skin, raising her face closer. Their eyes met and
Sylia saw no fear in Priss’ steady gaze, only the warm flame of desire… for
her. Sylia’s heart fluttered wildly as she eagerly moved nearer to Priss, lips
parted in silent invitation.
Whatever lingering doubts Priss might have had about the timing were banished
with that action. She closed her eyes and let her mouth gentle settle over
Sylia’s. The familiar taste and feel of her mouth made Priss’ head spin and she
wrapped her arms around Sylia’s waist and held her tightly. Sylia was torn
between the sharp sting of desire and the almost overwhelming relief that came
from being able to touch Priss again. She gripped Priss’ shoulders and gave
herself up to the desire.
They broke apart, gasping for breath as each searched for any signs of fear or
guilt. Priss grinned suddenly and pulled Sylia back into her arms. Passion
flared hotter as they kissed again and Sylia felt her stomach twist, low and
hot. Her hands slid into Priss’ hair and tried to pull her impossibly closer.
Priss was dimly aware of the car behind Sylia and pushed her back against it
until she was lying across the hood. Sylia’s heart stopped and then resumed at
a triple beat as she felt Priss’ hand on her knee, sliding the material away as
she began to trace random designs on the inside of her thigh. It had been so
long since she had touched her and Sylia thought that she might go mad if Priss
stopped. Tiny biting kisses across her collarbone reassured her that Priss had
no plans to stop anytime soon.
Priss managed to think clearly long enough to scan the area for anyone else.
Satisfied that they were alone, she tugged the strap of Sylia’s evening dress
off of her shoulder and pushed it down around her waist. Sylia felt the breeze
blowing over her exposed breasts and moved to cover them. Priss gripped her
wrists and gently set them down against the hood before releasing them. Her
smile was wicked and she bent over the treasure she’d uncovered with a husky
laugh, “Uh uh, finder’s keepers.” She took one tip into her mouth and sucked
lightly and Sylia stiffened response, rising up, trying to get closer. Priss
reluctantly freed her breast and kissed her way back up Sylia’s body. She
leaned over her and brushed her lips. “I’ve missed the taste of you.” She
returned her attention to Sylia’s breasts and continued where she had left off.
Sylia heard her murmur against her breast, ‘And the feel of you.” She felt
Priss’ hand move down her body and trail its way up the inside of her thigh.
Every thought that she had flew from her mind as Priss’ agile fingers made her
blood sing.
****
Sylia stared up at the stars overhead and stretched lazily, feeling the faint
hum that lingered in the aftermath of Priss’ loving. She rose up on one elbow
and looked down at her lover as Priss lay beside her on the hood of her car.
Sylia blushed as she realized just how unresisting she had been. Priss sat up
and swung off of the car to reach inside and retrieve her jacket. Sylia saw the
quick flash of fire and then the tiny glow of Priss’ cigarette. It still
disturbed her that Priss was smoking again, but she couldn’t really complain
since she had been known to light up when she was tense as well. Priss climbed
back up on the hood and resettled herself beside her. “That’s a cliché, you
know.” Sylia gestured to the cigarette and smiled.
Priss shrugged and tried to ignore the sense of dissatisfaction that was
troubling her. She had enjoyed giving Sylia pleasure, but she wasn’t sure she
was ready for her to return the favor. In truth, the thought of making herself
that vulnerable again made her feel a little anxious. Okay, a lot anxious.
Sylia curled into her side and Priss felt the warm touch of her lips against
her throat. Priss allowed this, as it didn’t cause her any undue fear. Sylia
slide her hand across Priss’ stomach and up to cup her breast lightly through
the material of her shirt. Priss inhaled sharply and was relieved that she felt
only pleasure at her touch. Sylia felt Priss’ response through the thin cloth
and smiled as she rolled the stiffening nipple between her fingers, making
Priss moan. “I’ve missed the taste of you as well.” She ducked her head and
began to suck Priss’ breast through her shirt.
Priss tossed her cigarette away and gripped the back of her head in
encouragement, praying that she could go through with this. As Sylia’s hands
moved under her shirt, Priss felt the first stirrings of fear and pushed them
back, mercilessly. She was torn between pleasure and panic when Sylia slipped
her hand down the front of Priss’ slacks, seeking to return the pleasure that
she had received. Her fingers delved into the soft folds and Priss was
trembling, waiting for the terror to overtake her. This is Sylia! She repeated
it over and over, recalling all of the times they had made love and reminding
herself that she loved this woman deeply.
Sylia could see the struggle that was taking place within Priss, but she didn’t
remove her hand. Instead, she moved it lower, slipping inside.
Priss felt her touch deepen and her fear was forgotten as the more powerful
force of desire filled her. She dimly heard herself cry out, but coherent
thought was lost as she was swept away.
****
The first rays of sunlight were peeking over the edge of the horizon when Priss
felt Sylia’s hands gliding lightly over her back, rousing her from sleep.
Sylia had thought she had seen something on Priss’ back earlier, but had been
distracted by Priss’ lovemaking. She pushed the sheet down until the small of
Priss’ back was revealed and stared at the small tattoo. Not sure what to make
of it she traced it’s outline with a fingertip and Priss spoke quietly. “Find
something interesting?”
“I’m not sure. When… why did you get this?”
Priss shrugged. “Does it matter?”
Sylia looked at her seriously. “Yes, it does.”
“I got it the night you came to the club.”
The night was not one easily forgotten and Sylia wondered what had motivated
her. “Why?”
“Why did I get it or why that image?”
“Priss.” Sylia’s voice held a wealth of emotion and Priss rolled over.
“I’m not sure why I got it. Drunken impulse I suppose. As for the image…” She
didn’t know how to explain why she had chosen a spider’s web or why she had had
Sylia’s name placed inside it. “I don’t know, Sylia. At the time it seemed
appropriate.”
“And now?”
Priss smiled slightly. “Actually it still does, but for different reasons.” She
caught Sylia’s hand and placed a kiss against her palm. “I’m hopelessly trapped
in your web, Sylia.”
Extremely disturbed by this, Sylia pulled her hand away and shook her head.
“Priss, I don’t-.”
“Calm down Sylia. I hope that you’re trapped in mine as well.” She pulled Sylia
into her arms and proceeded to demonstrate just how entangled they were with
each other.
****
Over the next few weeks they spent as much time together as they could. Sylia
postponed any jobs for the Knight Sabers that came in and left the Silky Doll
in the hands of her employees while Priss cut her rehearsals back to the
minimum. They spent their days together, trying to climb into each other’s
skins and see the world through the other’s eyes. Priss went, if reluctantly,
to the theatre and, God help her, the opera as Sylia tried, not so much to
expose Priss to them, but more to try and find a part of herself that she had
lost so long ago. The ability that she had set aside in order to don the
mantles of responsibility and vengeance, the ability to be carefree.
Priss demanded that she garage the Mercedes and begin to ride her bike more.
“That you could build this bike and then just put it away astounds me. I’m
kicking myself for letting you fall back into using the car for everything.”
She paused and winked at Sylia. “Don’t get me wrong, I love that car.” Priss
grew serious. “If you want to know me, then ride with me because that’s were I
am. If you’re looking for what’s missing in yourself Sylia, then you have to
start with the obvious.”
So Sylia did as she asked and they rode wherever they went, weather permitting.
Occasionally they would ride out to what was now being called New Aqua City,
which Priss thought was stupid considering the fact that ‘old’ Aqua City had
never been completed to begin with. They watched the construction progress and
talked about everything and anything.
At night, they carefully explored the physical side of their relationship and
tried to rebuild bonds of trust that had been brutally shattered. They slept in
the master bedroom. Priss said nothing about the change in décor, knowing now
that it been to help Sylia as much as herself. But it wasn’t the bed that had
hurt her, nor had the other furnishings. Priss was afraid to ask what had
happened to the sword.
On the morning of the seventh night without nightmares, Priss packed up the
stuff in her trailer. Giving away everything she didn’t need, Priss took the
rest and officially moved in with Sylia. Sylia had opened the door when Priss
knocked and had stared in confusion at her and her belongings. Priss had smiled
a little and asked, “Can I come in?”
****
“Kind of sudden, wasn’t it?” Linna drummed her fingers on the steering wheel
absently as she waited for the light to change. Nene gazed out the passenger
window at the passing traffic and didn’t answer. Linna straightened as the
light changed and shot a quick glance at Nene as she pulled forward. “The
invitation, I mean.”
Nene leaned back in the sit and turned to watch Linna drive. “Yeah. I wonder if
there’s something else going on. They’ve been avoiding us lately.”
Linna shook her head. “No. I don’t think it was on purpose, they certainly have
a lot to try and work through.”
Nene made an agreeing sound. “Do you think Sylia will disband the Knight Sabers
if she and Priss break up?”
Linna signaled a left turn and didn’t answer until it was completed. “I don’t
know. I think Priss would probably quit first.”
Nene tried to picture the Knight Sabers without her and couldn’t. “It wouldn’t
be the same without her.”
Turning into the parking garage of the Lady 633, Linna nodded absently as she
pulled in beside Sylia’s car. “It would probably be the end.” She unbuckled her
seatbelt and looked at Nene. “Well I guess we’d better prepare ourselves for
the worst. The odds are good that this will be our last night as Knight
Sabers.”
Nene scowled and got out of the car. “Don’t be so pessimistic! I’m betting that
they work things out.”
= That’s the spirit! Don’t give up hope, Nene. = Seiki was ever positive.
Inji laughed at her attitude. = Hope is a nice thing, but reality leaves very
deep teeth marks. =
Linna rolled her eyes and pressed the elevator button for Sylia’s floor. “You
know, I was just beginning to like these things until I realized what they
were.”
Nene looked at her in question, her eyes filled with laughter as the
collectives continued to bicker between themselves. “What?”
“Our consciences, with voices and double doses of attitude.” Silence followed
her statement and Linna smiled. “That’s better.”
The exited the elevator and stopped outside the front door. Nene looked at
Linna in question. “You do it.” Linna rolled her eyes at Nene’s reluctance and
pressed the buzzer. “Chicken.”
Nene tucked her hands under her arms and was flapping them in agreement as the
door swung open. Priss grinned as she froze and drawled teasingly. “I don’t
think chicken was on the menu tonight, but come in anyway.”
They followed her inside and Linna immediately noticed the framed poster that
now hung over the fireplace. As she turned to Priss in question, she saw Priss’
guitar leaning against the widow seat and several notebooks that Linna
recognized. They were the ones that Priss worked out her songs in and as far as
Linna knew, they never left her trailer. It wasn’t so much that there were some
of Priss’ belongings scattered around, as much as it was which belongings were
there. The last time Linna had seen that poster it had been hanging over Priss’
bed in her trailer.
Linna didn’t get the chance to ask Priss about it as Sylia called out from the
kitchen. “Priss? Is this supposed to boil over like that?” Priss cursed as she
dashed for the kitchen. They could hear her muttering, “Why in the hell didn’t
we just order in?” There was a clatter of pans and loud yelp of pain.
Linna looked at Nene in concern. “You didn’t happen to bring any antacid, did
you?” Nene shook her head worriedly.
“I heard that!”
Sylia came through the doorway as she spoke, carrying two glasses of wine. She
handed one to each of them with a smile. “She’s a little tense.”
Linna sipped gratefully. “Really? I wouldn’t have noticed.” She studied Sylia
over the rim of her glass. She seemed different and Linna couldn’t quite put
her finger on what had changed. Nene noticed it as well. < Her smile. > She
thought to Linna. < It reaches her eyes now. > Linna realized what she meant.
The shadows that had filled them for the last few weeks were gone and Linna
wondered if it meant what she hoped.
Priss came back into the living room and handed Sylia her glass. “Dinner will
be ready in about ten minutes.” She sank down onto the couch and sighed. Sylia
sat down next her and smiled at the others.
“You’re probably wondering at the sudden invitation after we seemed to be
staying away from you these last weeks.”
Priss took her free hand and laced their fingers together. Nene looked at their
joined hands and grinned. “I guess you guys were a little busy.”
“We’ve been working things out.” Priss squeezed Sylia’s hand slightly. “I’ve
moved out of my trailer, so if you want to find me call here or at the club.”
Her nonchalant tone was spoiled by the gleam in her eyes.
Linna’s mouth dropped open. Priss laughed at her reaction and Linna closed it
with a snap. “That’s great, Priss! We thought-.” She faltered and blushed
slightly as she remembered her and Nene’s conversation on the way over. “We
were afraid that-.”
Sylia spoke quietly. “That things had ended?” Linna nodded. “No, I don’t think
that was ever an option for us.”
Priss looked from Linna to Nene and asked quietly. “How are thing between you
two?”
Nene grinned and winked at Linna. “Really good now that she’s become my
guardian.”
“Guardian?”
Linna could feel herself blushing as Nene explained to them in glowing terms
the roll Linna now played whenever Nene linked to the system.
Priss coughed lightly and shot Linna a sly look. “My Linna, I had no idea you
where into that kind of thing. How…brave of you.”
Linna resisted the urge to throw her wine glass at Priss and instead took out
Priss’ bankbook. “Smart ass. Here. See what snappy comebacks you can make to
that.”
Priss caught the book as it rocketed towards her head and opened it.
Sylia heard her strangled exclamation and turned to her in concern. “Priss?”
Priss stared at the new balance and shook her head. “This has to be a mistake.”
Misunderstanding her, Sylia was quick to reassure her. “Priss it’s all right.
It’s only money.”
Priss’ laugh was strained. “Yeah, a hell of a lot of it. How did you do this?”
Sylia took the book and read the total with a silent arching of her brow.
Linna shrugged. “I told you I’d triple anything you gave me. Unfortunately I
miscalculated on one or two investments.”
Sylia nodded. “I see that. This is more like quadruple.”
“Well I hadn’t realized that Genom’s falling stock would cause the Kousotsu
Corporation to grow like that. You know Sylia; I think we should keep an eye on
them. They are quickly becoming a real power in the financial community. They
could be the next Genom.”
Sylia choked on her wine as Priss burst out laughing. Linna frowned at their
reactions. “What’s so funny?”
There was a knock at the door and Priss went to answer it, leaving Sylia to
explain. She opened the door and found Mackie. “Sorry I’m late.”
Priss shook her head. “Get real, Mackie. You couldn’t be late if you tried.
You’re too much like Sylia.” They joined the others and found Nene and Linna
staring at Sylia in shock.
“Geez, Sylia. What’d you say to them?”
Sylia raised her wine glass and smiled at Mackie. “I told them the truth of
course.”
Priss snorted. “Uh huh. How much of the truth?”
Linna cleared her throat, her expression still startled. “She owns Kousotsu
Corporation and is trying to take over Genom. She’s made boomers go bad to hurt
Genom’s image.”
“Well I’ll be damned.” Priss laughed and helped Sylia to her feet. “I didn’t
think you’d do it, Sylia.” She kissed her lightly. “See there? Honesty isn’t so
difficult.”
“No it isn’t. It’s rather amusing actually.” Sylia glanced at Nene and Linna
who were still trying to absorb this new revelation. “Maybe I should tell them
about your-.” Priss clamped a hand over her mouth.
“I’ve created a monster now.” Priss tugged her toward the kitchen. “Dinner’s
ready. Come on, let’s eat.”
They all wandered into the kitchen as Linna complained, “Tell us what? Priss?
Sylia? Come on guys, tell us!”
Shimai
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