Chapter Text
"Chapter 1: Eros"
The warm breeze of summer added to the tranquility of Yohmei Asakura's meditation. The experienced shaman often prefers introspection be done outdoors, where one is fused with nature. Shikigamis his chosen mediums have a very strong affinity to this environment. It is necessary to commune with them as frequently as possible. This union often gives him relaxation. In this zone, away from the demands of clients and toxicity modern living has brought upon Izumo, he feels most free. Taking a deep breath his eyes slowly opened while nervousness crept in. Anticipating to be disappointed, he sighed in relief. At the side, Yoh Asakura, his beloved grandson and heir to the clan is diligently meditating.
This sight has become a normal occurrence compared to who Yoh was six months ago. Yes the young man still carried his carefree side. But has matured a bit to understand when it's time to get serious. He could still recall Yoh coming from Aomori frantically seeking him. The boy bags in tow and sweating dropped to his knees, forehead touching the floor and stated. "Grandfather forgive me. Due to my weakness, Matamune was lost." The young man's voice continued to shiver. "If it was not for him, I could have died, I owe him my life." Yohmei kept silent to assure his grandson he is willing to listen. "Grandfather, Matamune not only protected me. He also saved Anna." A small smirk appeared on the old man's face. It was true as his wife said the heir has acknowledged the chosen bride. "I was too weak to protect Anna." Yoh's voice continued to tremble. "I must get stronger and be Shaman King not only for myself but for hers as well."
The boy's declaration sounds impressive, but can he really keep up with the challenge. Sure Yoh has kinship to shamanic powers. His grandson is the half reincarnation of the most powerful shaman that ever existed. But will it be enough to be Shaman King? The Shaman fight is due in five years, can he be ready in time? "Yoh is your desire to be Shaman king strong?" The elder questioned. If Yoh wants to achieve this goal, there is more than hell to conquer.
The heir lifted his head from the ground. Tears stains were present on the youthful face. His eyes unlike before which harbors boredom, is now filled with passion. "Yes, my resolve is strong grandfather. For Anna and Matamune, I will be Shaman king." Can this determination sustain and triumph over the Great Spirit? Yohmei thought to himself. Yoh is still young, inexperienced and too kind. Can he really go all out to the point of killing in order to win? When he turns fifteen, can he go head to head in the most anticipated blood bath every five hundred years? Besides that, can Yoh actually defeat the Asakura nightmare?
For years, the Asakura clan has been burdened by their ancestor who has gone mad. This man, Hao intends to eradicate humanity and leave only shamans to survive. However, all those who oppose will be put to death. His power can be defined as limitless and very deadly. That viciousness, no hint of it is in Yoh's body. He is like a flawless lamb waiting to be slaughtered as sacrifice. If it were true, was that the purpose of his birth? Such a tragic destiny for his grandson is heartbreaking. With all that he can, Yohmei was determined to give Yoh a fighting chance and be Shaman King. Not just to restore family honor, but because Yoh deserves to live the life he wants.
"Grandfather you have been staring weren't you?" The child's voice broke off the elder's reverie. "I guess I was." The older admitted. "Until now I am still surprised how you took the three hundred and sixty degree turn. Anna and Matamune are amazing." The experienced Shaman noted. The younger nodded and smiled recalling memories with the two. "One day, I will be strong enough to summon Matamune with this." The youngster held on to the claw necklace. "And he can see me and Anna married." Brows raised the elder gave a sly smile. The youth blushed upon witnessing the reaction and realizing the connotation of his words. However scratch that, he was never been so sure of wanting anything in his life. "I will marry Anna grandfather. She will be my queen."
Young love is such an amusing phenomena. It seems that Yoh has fallen deeply for the itako in training. Kino actually excitedly called him the day she felt the two like each other. It seems they share a liking for music though the genre is different. Their grandson also softened up the girl's defenses. Shortly after they met. The heir was able to convince the female to a new year's date. The lady despite knowing the risks took the chance because she wanted to be with him.
Relationships in order to work requires a two way street. Both parties are willing to thread the path eagerly. That in mind it seemed to be the opportune time to tell the youth of their upcoming visitors this summer.
"Yoh, summer break is soon right?" The child happily nodded. "You are excited for it as I can see." The grandfather teased. "I have surprising news for you. This summer on July twenty Kino and Anna will be visiting." The elder continued to beam at the boy. "Are you excited to meet them?" The younger just blushed.
Of course deep inside he does, however it feels too soon. His furyoku has not increased yet. Skills wise nothing has changed much. Would Anna be impressed when they meet? He talked too big last time they conversed and so smitten before parting in the train. What will he do? Well it's not like he can hide anything from her. Scratch that what preparation must be done to make a good impression? Maybe he should show off some awesome training regimen. But what is so cool about meditation? So far that is what he has been doing lately. "Grandpa, what can you say of my furyoku? Is it as lame as six months ago?"
The older shaman smirked that the child now is finally growing up. "Well you did turn eleven recently and I have to say it went up a tiny notch." The grandson pouted, the progress has been little. "Listen Yoh, there is a saying, a journey to a thousand miles begins in a single step." Patting the boy's head the elder continued. "We cannot short cut progress. So it's best to go steady and surely. I am sure Anna will notice the difference." The assurance sort of gave the youngster hope that he is on the right track. Eyes filled with mirth he suddenly exclaimed. "Grandfather! I can show her around right? You will allow us to go sightseeing? I promise not to take her anywhere dangerous." The older nodded. "Sure you can play around but make sure not to go home too late. Your grandmother is very particular of having dinner together when everyone is present." Raising a thumbs up sign, Yoh's excitement rocketed. He was going to show Anna how much she means to him. And within their Izumo compound, there is a perfect place to express it.
Days after the announcement Yoh is seen fidgeting by the train station tracks. He took note to take a shower and wash his hair today. But he still feels conscious of his appearance. Anna and his grandmother is set to arrive in two minutes time. He eagerly volunteered to pick them up despite the older lady saying it is not necessary. As the vehicle appeared in view and halted on the tracks, the young man's heartbeat throbbed. His eyes searched for a glimpse of the blonde. Passengers alighted but he could not see any trace of the guest he is expecting. Did he miss the time? Or were they just late? He is on the right station track right? He frantically looked around. Where are they? As he was about to recheck the schedule display to verify a familiar voice spoke. "We changed our train wagon number. But I knew you would be waiting here."
The tone of her voice made Yoh flush, he felt like fainting. "You are supposed to carry our bags. Not us carry you home." The lady said nonchalantly. Turning around embarrassedly the boy greeted "A..A.. Anna! Great to see you!" Rubbing the back of his head he was surprised she was alone. "Kino-sama is seating near the spot we went down from. The luggage is there." It must have been the warmth of summer that her pale skin glowed. Her golden hair looked shinny and healthy. Those beautiful eyes, before it was cold now there is a certain life in it. "If you're done staring let's be on our way. You know I don't like crowded places." Shrugging the female turned her back to leave. "Oh, Ah… Sorry Anna, I was, uhmm, happy to see you." The male confessed.
"No perverted thoughts. You're clear." The female uttered slowly walking away. "I wish you couldn't do that." The boy said out loud. The girl looked back at him with a raised brow. "How can I surprise you if my thoughts are always read like that?" He continued while pouting and threading towards the lady. "Please wait up a bit." As soon as he caught up with her strides Anna stared back at Yoh. "It's your birthday two days from now. Let's go somewhere special." He proposed with a goofy grin.
The two arrived at Kino's spot and the grandson picked up the baggage. "The two of you sure pack light." The senior Itako nodded. "Keiko wanted to buy Anna new clothes. As for me I do have clothes at home so there is no need to bring a lot." Yoh liked the idea his mother will take Anna shopping. It most definitely mean she has approved of her. He glanced again at the girl. Since she has earned the approval of the matriarchs, the patriarchs will not argue.
Yoh hailed a cab for his grandmother's comfort. The boy sat in between the two women and inquired "Grandmother, when we arrive home is it okay I lead Anna to her room? Grandfather will great us at the gate so you can come with him." The older woman agreed with his request. "You seem so eager to show her around the house." The master itako teased. Blushing the boy retorted. "It's her first time at home. I don't want her getting lost." Anna stared blankly at him. "The main compound may be seven thousand square meters. But the spirits there will be more than happy to assist me." The younger female countered. Fiddling his fingers Yoh blurted out. "Is it bad that I want to be the one to do that?" Shocked by his boldness Anna looked away. It seems like her cheeks are warming up. Noticing her reaction the heir smiled. "I guess you don't right? " Yoh giggled boyishly. "Thanks for accepting my offer." His eyes shone with excitement. "I will be happy to show you around."
Kino did not need eyes to now that the apprentice is embarrassed. The affection her grandson is shamelessly expressing is overwhelming. Even the cab driver grunted and whispered "Kids these days, falling in love so early."
The taxi stopped at the front gate of the Asakura manor. Yohmei as expected was on stand by and welcomed them. "It has been awhile Kino." The senior man smiled adoringly. He shifted his gaze to the young blonde. "Nice to meet you Anna." He stepped aside and the inner part of the property can be viewed. "It has been a long trip, please come in. Keiko prepared some refreshments." Kino nodded. "Looks like you have to wait Yoh. Your mother had other plans." Yoh sighed that Anna and he had to drag along. But it is a family meeting so it can't be helped.
The group headed towards the main house. "Is Miki here?" the senior itako inquired. "He is running late but he promised to come." The onmyoji nervously explained. "You know him being too engrossed about adventures." There was a hint of displeasure from Kino, her husband is covering up for their son in law again.
"Grandmother, don't worry Dad will come." The young Asakura confirmed. If it weren't for their grandson she would have disowned that sorry excuse of a man. "Your father has always been quite the character." The matriarch commented. "He is not as bad as you think dear." Yoh smirked, whenever grandfather used endearment it means his partner is very displeased.
"You must gotten it from your father." Anna commented out of the blue. "I got what from him?" Yoh clarified. "Your carefree attitude. Or should I say slacking tendencies." His fiancée stated with finality. The boy pouted. It is true he likes to take thing easy. But he knows when things matter. Well at least that is what he believes in. Is he really that unreliable? Has he not proven himself enough since Osorezan?
Anna was able to notice Yoh's shift in mood. His thoughts turned gloomy. It seems she had gone too far with the comment. But what was said is done and over with. If this guy ever wants to be Shaman king, petty things should not bother him. With the thought, the young itako began to wonder. Maybe it is her responsibility as a fiancée to make sure he does not stray away. Should she help in training him to be a better man? If she recalls correctly, the Shaman fight is due in five years or less. Time is very limited and if Yoh wants a shot at the crown, he needs to work twice as hard.
Honestly, her powers have been a bit bearable after the Asakura heir expressed his intentions. The thought of it still never fails to make her heart flutter. No one has ever showed her that unadulterated affection before.
Concentrating more, she was able to see dig up some of his memories. It was filled of events of befriending spirits and helping them to move on. Yoh has an untainted heart and soul. If he can keep this innocence, he will never be corrupted by power.
This unblemished man, she had declared her adoration to him too. She was sure he heard it, together with the Oni and Matamune. However, her inadequacy to express emotions make it difficult to believe. It is necessary for him to know her feelings despite their unordinary circumstance. It seems that just for this one time she will bend for him.
"You have proven yourself." Anna muttered. "But bad habits die hard." She continued to expound. "I just want you to be aware so you can be careful."
Receiving the answer to his question, Yoh decided to let it pass. Instead he made a vow to himself. He will prove to Anna this summer that he is a better man. A person fit to be Shaman king.
They have reached the main house receiving area. It was adorned with ancient scroll paintings and calligraphies. Keiko was already kneeling on the table smiling fondly at them. Yoh's mother has signature long black hair. Her eyes are welcoming.
As the female host saw Kino in view she bowed and greeted. "Mother, it is great to see you." Then her eyes shifted to the young maiden. "And it's a pleasure to meet you too Anna." Anna bowed in return then suddenly her eyebrows furrowed.
Keiko continued to beam understanding the wonderment of the girl. "You must be surprised dear, you can't read my thoughts right?" Anna was astounded the miko noticed. "My profession taught me to block my personal desires." The beautiful brunette elaborated. "It is necessary so my divinations are impartial."
The young itako observed the gentle lady by the table. She looks harmless enough. "Wow mom, you are so cool!" Yoh exclaimed. "Can you teach me that?" The boy said excitedly and approached his mother in anticipation. "In time Yoh, all in good time." The mother hushed sweetly.
The brunette woman looked back at the young blonde. As if sensing the itako in training's concerns she stated. "I like you Anna. You will be good for my son." The younger Asakura matriarch expressed with confidence. "Please, I leave him to your capable hands."
Kino settled on the table and spoke. "Maybe Anna can rear Yoh in better than you do with Miki." The miko could only sway her head. When it comes to her husband's absences there was really no good excuse. "Kino darling, Miki will be here soon. He just loves being one with nature." The patriarch defended. "Pachinko is not part of nature Yohmei." The seasoned itako huffed.
Hurried shuffling of feet was heard. "Sorry to be late." A long haired man with a wooden bird mask greeted while panting. "How about trying to impress your mother in law and soon to be daughter in law for a change?" The older woman challenged. "Mother, looking as youthful as always." The addressee just shrugged. "Dad would you mind removing your mask? So Anna can see you clearly?" His son requested. "She probably already saw how I looked in your head." His father responded. "Well it is exactly different up front than just in the mind right?" The youngster pressed on.
"Miki, please don't taunt our son." Keiko added "Put down your mask and let's all enjoy tea." Miki sat beside his wife and removed the guise. "You see an unfortunate accident burnt part of my face. Hence I hide it under the facade."
"You look great Dad, the scar barely makes you look bad." The boy stated cheerily. "Looks like you are still my biggest fan eh sport?" Miki grinned at his son. "You are fortunate with your son Miki. Why don't you spend more time with him rather than pachinko?" Kino retorted.
"Mother, I am doing my best for Yoh. I took more time taking care of him than anybody else." Keiko kept silent with her husband's reply. Things are bound to get messy soon.
"Are you pertaining my daughter is an irresponsible mother?" The elder woman accusingly asked. "Please don't put words in my mouth." The man in question defended. "I always understood why my wife is often not around." The long haired man replied. "It is no brainer she earns more than me. So it's a given that the household stuff is expected of me."
"Mother, please I let Miki have some fun when I am around." Keiko tried to hush the conversation. "He deserves a breather don't put it against him." The miko further clarified.
"Of all the people you could have met that night…." Kino spat out but was cut off by Yohmei. "Dear please, we have a guest. We will talk about this when the children are away." The blind itako decided to give in. Though Anna probably knows by now Miki's incompetence, she should realize Yoh is a better person.
Beneath the table Keiko reached for Miki's hand. It was an apologetic gesture. Yes they fell in love too fast. This love brought about Hao, the Asakura nightmare and Yoh the dream. It is expected that as parents they should guide Yoh towards the realization of the dream.
Imperfect parents as they are, both of them tried their best. "Grandmother, everything will work out in the end." Yoh calmly stated. "Please, don't take it out on mom and dad. I maybe their son but I am my own person."
"So you are going to take responsibility for yourself?" The senior matriarch challenged. "Yes, there is no other way right?" The boy answered confidently. "If I can't, how can I be Shaman King for myself and Anna?"
Miki could not hold his laughter. "Oh my son is so in love." Keiko hid a smirk by covering her lips with both hands. Kino could just sigh while Yohmei beamed and swayed his head.
"Yoh if you think like that…" His father tried to control the snickering. "You might end up marrying before graduating high school." Both youth blushed at the man's insinuation.
"I don't mind." It was the meek but strong answer from the blonde guest.
Hearing the declaration from the small female everyone became silent. It seems like Yoh is not the only one deeply in love here. That statement, coming from her, Yoh's heart sky rocketed. She does not mind marrying him. Plus she doesn't care if it will be sooner than expected. He wholeheartedly smiled and looked at Anna sitting beside him. Then his gaze shifted to his mother.
"Mom, Can I have a word with you later, like after dinner?" The miko nodded, "Yes, anytime Yoh."
The green tea and macha mochi was a combination made in heaven. Watermelon was also served, a reliable source of hydration in the heat of summer. Yohmei kept the conversations light hearted. It revolved around how many students are in. How the spirits in the vicinity help maintaining the estate. "It's really a big budget cut." He would proudly say. "Some spirits have pledged to keep upholding this state as long as it is needed."
"They must have felt strong affinity to the Asakura's to make such a strong commitment." Anna expressed her praise.
"Technically, we are an esteemed and generous clan." Kino added. "So loyalty from our peers is something we are proud of. Be it in spirit or flesh."
Once the refreshments were done, Yoh escorted Anna to her room. They arrived at an intersection and the boy directed her to the east the female visitor's area. "The west is for male guest." He pointed out. "Students have their quarters in the south." Shifting his direction. "While the main family area is on the north." Then he displayed his goofy grin. "Once we finished all the rituals of our engagement. You will move to the north."
Following his lead, they reached the entry of her room. Opening the door it can be seen that it is spacious. "If you're tired, you can rest and I will pick you up for dinner." He offered.
"Is that your excuse in order to not tour me around?" Anna asked. Yoh sweated at the inquiry. "No, I was thinking you might be tired that's all." The boy defended.
Gathering his courage he added. "If you are up to it let's go then."
Anna bobbed her head and ushered him to lead the way. "Let's go to the training hall. There are interesting stuff there." Anna followed the male in silence.
She felt a small force of furyoku upon reaching the hall. It seems someone is training. "Oh dear, how can I get my divinations correct?" The voice exasperatedly expressed.
A female disciple how interesting. "She is the other bride candidate." The itako concluded, too bad for her the choice has been made.
A pink short haired girl came into view. She looks like the timid and obedient type. Sensing the company that arrived, the girl stood up. "Master Yoh!" Her eyes beamed with admiration. She sprinted to greet the lord but suddenly halted.
Eagerness switched to shock upon seeing the blonde. "Oh my! You must be Mistress Anna." The disciple bowed nervously. "I am Tamao. It is a pleasure to see you." Anna nodded to acknowledge the reception.
"They look good together. Lady Kino chose well." Tamao thought. As she straightened up, the itako was intently staring. "Have I done something not to your liking mistress?"
Anna walked towards the fidgeting girl. She leaned into the other's ear and whispered. "I can read minds and I am aware of your feelings." Tamao blushed at the revelation. Her deepest secret has just been found out. This is so embarrassing, she was foiled by the bride no less.
"Mistress Anna, please I have no ill intent…" The pinkette stammered and took a step back. "You know your place I am aware. But it is always best to start clean." The blonde answered in a monotone.
"What is this all about Anna? Why is Tamao so jittery?" The clueless male asked. "Nothing of your concern Yoh." His fianceé replied. "I just reminded Tamao of something important."
The Asakura disciple continued to blush. "Are you okay?" Yoh stepped towards the reddening girl. "Do you have a fever?" He was about to touch her forehead but his hand was swayed away. "Don't master. I am fine really." The boy rubbed his neck. "Okay, if you say so." Then he directed his eyes to the bride. "Anna let's go over there, I will show you the line of our ancestors."
The couple left and the pink haired girl looked longing. Anna-sama is a lucky lady. Master Yoh will make a fine husband. The disciple believed his kindness and gentleness is beyond this world.
Anna seems very strong. She sighed. Of course only strong women can be chosen as an Asakura bride. The future Shaman king does need a queen who can support a pillar of strength. Plus Yoh is so smitten with the chosen one.
Tamao boldly decided to observe the pair awhile longer. Yes it's normal for him to smile a lot. But his eyes have a beautiful glimmer whenever he looks at the other girl. It is noticeable that the master is so happy showing his fianceé around. When was he ever shown enthusiasm with socialization? Yoh never bothered about the clients coming over. Same with the students but is always accommodating when conversed too. It was only with mistress Anna he offered some initiative. To people who is familiar with the young master, this is an incredible feat.
The girl in question may look disinterested. But looking closely, the way she looks at him, one can say strong feelings are involved. More than a perfect match, they seemed to be destined. Orchestrated to come together by the strong Asakura clan. From that point on, Tamao made a decision. That no matter what happens, she will stand loyal to this couple. Her services will always be made available to them. No matter how absurd it maybe.
"Would you like to go outside Anna?" Yoh suggested out of the blue. "I will show you my favorite Koi pond." The young man cheerily offered.
The girl dipped her chin in agreement and the two headed outside. "The Koi pond has twenty different species. Most of them were gifts from clients." The couple continued walking. "Dad decided to breed them for extra cash flow. Since Koi is a sign of luck some folks buy them for that."
"The bestseller is the breed with red spots. They say that red is vibrant and brings in fortune." The boy continued to explain. Noticing that he is not receiving any reaction. "Anna am I boring you. Sorry.."
She looked at him tenderly. "No you are not boring. Thank you for showing me around." Relieved the heir smiled. "Whew, so far I am doing a good job right." The lady raised an eyebrow. "Is that a yes?"
"Yes." She flatly agreed. "Okay, as I was saying. Buyers actually said the Koi brought them good fortune." The itako observed her groom. He looks so innocent but when needed can be so passionate. She recalled how he bravely gave it all just to save her. His voice continue to ring in her ears as he continued to talk. "So some actually try to acquire all twenty. They must have a very big pond in their houses too don't you think?..."
He caught her staring and they stopped in their tracks. The action made him insanely warm in the hot summer atmosphere. Determined to remain unfazed she stood her ground and pretended it is nothing. He smiled sheepishly as she looked at him intently. "You can probably read a million thoughts in my mind right now." His eyes were intense. "I may not be able to say or act on it all." The heir gently expounded. "But I hope you can always feel it."
"Yoh.." was all Anna could muster. His emotions are so strong she felt drowning. How can she return this abundance? They were young, he was eleven and she will be also in two days. But their souls feel like it has been in union for a thousand years. She did not need to speak. The man knew the depth of her sentiments. Heck and she was the one who can read minds.
"Let's continue on our way before it gets dark." The boy encouraged. "The Koi's are best seen in motion under the sun lit sky."
The esteemed Koi pond did not disappoint. Anna was awed at the variety and the vastness of the area. Yoh offered feeds to give to the fishes so it could be observed up close. She reluctantly indulged in the activity. It was interesting to see how the Koi's excitedly gobbled up the treats.
After sometime he invited her to sit on a corner with him. Then ushered that they dip their feet in the water. The girl obliged and welcomed the coolness of the liquid on her tired feet. "Refreshing isn't it?" he fiancée inquired. "Yes it is."
They allowed the time to pass. Under the clouds and refreshing breeze, Yoh began to speak in his thoughts. It was intimate pure musings. To a point it can be considered cheesy. However, Anna basked in all he had to share. The silent moment was probably one of their deepest conversations after meeting again.
"Anna.." Yoh shifted his gaze to the girl beside him. "Whenever you are ready.." He grinned meekly. "Share your inner thoughts with me too."
She stared back at him, with eyes softening and cheeks flushed. "I will."
From a distance a masked man observed the couple enjoying the moment by the pond. He was nodding in approval. They are young but have transcended to a deeper form affection and commitment. Miki never believed in Greek mythology since he is yet to meet one of its gods. However with the way the two youth are acting it seems Eros has both shot them in the heart.
Love at first sight as they may call it. First him then his son, indeed like father, like son.
Authors note:
Finally made it to AO3.
A yoh and anna image I saw in the net plus Osorezan Revoir inspired this fanfiction.
Our first installment, please enjoy and drop a comment below.
Thanks