"Japan," Tonya replied nonplussed and sipped her tea.

 

 "For how long?" Poopsie queried.

 

 "I leave the Friday evening before Spring break and will return the Saturday or Sunday after," Tonya answered, savoring the warmth of the cup in her hands.

 

 "You're going on a run, aren't you?" Dee accused.

 

 "Yup."

 

 "I thought you were going to let us help on the next one," Jessica whined.

 

 Tonya arched an eyebrow.  "I never said that.  I said that if one came up where you could help, I would inform you of it."  She chuckled, "Besides...the 'next one' has already passed."

 

 "Who's your mark?" Alec asked.

 

 Tonya shrugged and replied, "Dunno.  Spook hasn't told me yet."

 

"But it's going to take the entire week?" Zarbon asked frowning.  He'd been looking forward to the break and had hoped they could go somewhere together as a couple.

 

 "Actually," Tonya said with a smirk.  "She told me it shouldn't take more than three days, but that I could stay and experience the wonder that is Japan."

 

 "You mean sit around drinking tea and watching Anime," Sally accused.

 

 Tonya tried to look innocent, but failed.  "Don't worry love," she said patting Zarbon's arm.  "As soon as I'm done, I'll call you, and you can fly over.  Then we can turn Tokyo upside down."

 

"Yeah," smirked Sally, "Like Godzilla."

 

- - - - - - - -  - -

 Zarbon didn't mind the clothes she had to wear when she was going on a run.  He didn't mind the make-up that changed her skin tone or the prosthetics that changed her face's shape.  He didn't even care that she wore wigs that changed the length, color, and texture of her hair.  But the one thing he couldn't stand was the contacts that changed the beautiful emerald eyes he loved so much into one of a hundred of other colors.

 

 He sat on her bed watching her, arms folded across his chest, glaring at the box on the vanity that she was sorting through.  Every now and then she would pick up a small case and compare it to the picture in her hand.  Opening one case, she put in the contacts then studied her reflection.  She brushed back her loose hair trying to picture herself with the dark perm she would be using for the first leg of her journey.

 

 "What do you think, Zarbon?" she asked without turning around.  He didn't reply so she turned to look at him.  "Zarbon?"

 

 He was looking at the wall opposite her, his displeasure radiating from his posture.  She rolled her eyes and glanced back at her reflection before taking out her contacts.  Sighing, she stood up, stretched, then walked to the bed and stood in front of him.  Zarbon still refused to even glance at her and she just watched him for a minute as a mischievous smile tugged at her lips.

 

Tonya put her hands on his shoulders, then slowly straddled his lap, her arms slipping around his neck.  Pressing against him as much as possible, she nuzzled his cheek, trying to get his attention.  When he didn't respond, she began to nibble on his ear and felt him shiver, but he maintained his detachment.  Starting to get annoyed, she cupped his face in her hands and forced him to look at her, then kissed him fiercely.

 

Zarbon tried not to response to the kiss, but he could feel his resolve weakening as she tried to deepen it.  He pulled back from her, breaking the kiss, but she was still pressed against him so he fell back onto the bed.  She caught herself, a hand on either side of his head, and smirked down at him as her hair curtained around them.  He blinked up into the mischievous green eyes he loved so much and felt a smile grace his lips.

 

 She shifted to lean on her elbows, her hands pushing back the silken waves of chestnut, and kissed his nose.  "So...What do you think?" she asked again.

 

 He sighed and wrapped his arms around her.  "I still wish you didn't need to go on this run," he said.  "But I guess I still have three days to change your mind."  He kissed her deeply and she relaxed against him.


- - - --  --

 

 Margaret Regina Scheinbaum.  45-year-old Caucasian female.  Unmarried, no children, lives in an apartment in Kansas City, Missouri.  Two cats:  a two year old male purebred Burmese named Tyler and a year old purebred Havana brown male named Cuba.  Freelance writer looking for inspiration in Japan.  Five foot six, 275 pounds, blue eyes, and short dark brown permed hair.

 

So basically I'm a fat, middle-aged spinster who has cats and probably writes cheap romance novels...GRREEAAT, Tonya thought as she read her new identity's profile.  I should have guessed from the picture she sent me.

 

- - - - - -

 

"Love?"

 

 "What?" Tonya said turning from the vanity.  She was fully dressed in the outfit she would wear to Japan.  Now she was putting the finishing touches on her make up and hair. 

 

 "I have something for you before you leave," Zarbon said.  "If you want it." 

 

The typical curious look his lover had looked almost creepy on the older woman's face.  The familiar bright emerald eyes watching him from a stranger's face left him with an unsettled feeling.  "It might help on your run."

 

 "What is it?"

 

 "It's a translator," Zarbon answered, handing her the bottle.  "It's programmed to translate every language on earth.  It makes the language understandable, but won't explain things for you.  It will also allow you to speak the language properly as well.  It downloads the proper language directly into the language center of your brain."

 

 "Cool.  So how do I use it?" Tonya asked looking up.

 

 "Just put it in your ear canal and it connects to your brain.  They're commonly used among the members of King Cold's forces.  They're impossible to detect and won't cause any medical problems."

 

 Tonya smirked.  "You sound like a TV commercial spokesman.  Next you'll be telling me you wear one," she joked.

 

 Zarbon nodded.  "For over ten years.  They can be removed easily, but it's easier to leave them in."

 

 Tonya peered at the tiny thing suspended in some kind of liquid.  "Alright, how do I do this?  Just pour it in my ear?"

 

 "No," Zarbon chuckled.  "Here, I'll do it.  Just relax."

 

 He took the bottle back and pulled out a pair of tweezers.  Fishing the translator out, he sat the bottle on the table, and tipped her head to the right with his other hand.  He prepared to insert the device, but paused as she began to giggle.

 

 "Sorry, but it reminded me of one of those alien movies," she said.  "Oh help.  It's gonna eat my brain." 

 

Zarbon choose not to comment on that and deftly inserted the translator.  She shivered as the cold liquid slipped into her ear canal and he let her set up.

 

"<Well?  What do you think?>" he asked in French.

 

"What?" she asked shaking her head slightly.

 

"<Well?  What do you think?>" he repeated slower.

 

Tonya opened her mouth to ask him to repeat it again when it finally connected and she understood.  "<I guess it works,>" she answered in French.

 

"Good." 

 

-  - - - - -

 

 The trip to Tokyo would take fifteen hours; fifteen long boring hours.  She had been on the plane less than an hour and she was about to go insane. 

 

This wig itches like crazy! Tonya thought as she tried to concentrate on staring at the window at the passing clouds.  Her fingers dug into her soft-sided carry on as she envisioned tossing the irritating tribble out the window.  The small boy, about 7 or 8, in the seat next to her began to kick the seat in front of him, breaking her concentration.  His parents were in the row behind; his mother, fast asleep thanks to a tranquillizer, and his father was engaged in some business venture.

 

 "Honey, don't do that.  It's not polite," Tonya chided looking at the boy.

 

 The boy paused, looking at her like she had three heads.  "Why?" he said with a small smile.  If he couldn't kick the seat he would just annoy the nosy, old lady.

 

 "Because there might be someone in that seat whom you shouldn't bother," Tonya answered carefully, already onto the boy's plan.

 

 "Like who?"

 

 "Hmm, let's see," Tonya said, her eyes twinkling with mischief.  "Maybe a mass murderer who will make you their next victim.  Or a witch who will turn you into a toad and have you for dinner."

 

 "That's lame," the boy said crossing his arms.  "I'm not a afraid of any of that."

 

 "Oh, I see," Tonya answered.  "Then how about a werewolf or a zombie?"

 

 "Nah...How about a evil alien that wants to take over the world and needs human brains to complete his plan," the boy asked his eyes lighting with enthusiasm.

 

 Tonya nodded.  "That could work.  And now that you've annoyed him and discovered his plan, you're going to be the first."

 

 "What about you?" he asked.  "You know now too."

 

 "Oh my, that's right," Tonya pretended to be horrified.  "Maybe we should tell the pilot."

 

 "No, then he could take over the plane and his plan would succeed!"

 

  "True, okay then we need a plan...What's your name?"

 

 "Fredrick Walters.  Dad calls me Fred," he whispered.  "What's yours?"

  
"Margaret Regina Scheinbaum, but you can call me Gina," Tonya whispered back.  "First, we should do something to block our thoughts so if he can read minds he won't know we know."

 

"Right.  We could make tinfoil hats like in Signs," Fred said in a hushed voice.

 

"I don't think there's any tinfoil on the plane," Tonya said causally peeking over the seats.  "Do you think a pyramid hat would work?  I have paper and tape."

 

 "Okay, let's hurry."

 

- - -  -- - -

 

 Fred's dad carried the sleeping boy off the plane, the paper hat covered in "protective" symbols and scrawls perched on his head.  Tonya checked the bag's zipper, then stood, and carefully surveyed the crowd.  She made brief eye contact with the man who had sat in front of her, but he looked harmless enough.

 

 Collecting her luggage, she quickly walked from the terminal out onto the street.  A thrilling birdcall caught her attention and she turned toward the sound, searching for the source.  A familiar yellow cab stood among the others gathered at the curb, their owners each vying for her attention.  She casually strolled past them, pretending to inspect both the vehicles and their drivers.  Pausing in front of the yellow cab, she looked down her nose at the driver.

 

 He was reading a manga, leaning back against the fender, and apparently ignoring the people around him.  Occasionally he would give a thrilling bird call just as casually as most people would whistle, hum, or sing a chorus or line to a song. 

 

 "I'm gathering shards from the jewel of four souls.  Have you seen any?" she asked the young man.

 

 His eyes flicked up at her then dropped back to the pages in front of him.  "No, but I know a ghost who might," he answered.  "Will you meet her?"

 

 "Yes."

 

 "Then I will take you to her," he answered shutting the manga.  He tossed it into the passenger seat before taking her bags and loading them into the trunk.  Then he opened the door for her and helped her in.  He got in the driver's seat, started the car, and pulled out into traffic.  Without glancing at her he cleared his throat.  "Felina, hands off my manga," he said and smirked as he heard it drop back onto the seat.
       

- - - - - -- - -

 

 "Oh yes!  Oh yes, yes yes!"

 

 "Tonya cut it out!" Spook yelled at her friend who was currently in the bathroom.  "Do you know how wrong that sounds?"

 

 "Mmm...but it feels so good!" the longhaired girl protested.  She stepped out into the living room wearing cutoffs and a t-shirt proclaiming 'The truth is out there.'  The long chestnut hair was unbound and cascaded to her knees, slightly wavy from the tight braids that had kept in confined for the past 20 hours or so.  

 

 Dropping to kneel on the floor in front of the TV, she sank her fingers into the thick tresses and began to massage her scalp again.  "Mmm...yeah, that's the ticket," she purred.

 

 Spook rolled her eyes and shook her head.  "Oh for the love of...I can not believe that the wig you were wearing could possible be that itchy."

 

 "No, but combine it with the tight braids and hairpins..." Tonya pulled a pick out of her back pocket and began to detangle her hair.  "You still haven't told me about my mission."

 

 "Would you like some tea?  I'm sure you would.  It was a long flight and you love tea.  I'll be right back," Spook said in one breath before dashing from the room.

 

 By the time she returned with the tea service, Tonya had finished combing and rebraiding her hair into a single braid.  Spook handed her a cup trying to avoid the questioning gaze of her friend.  The tip of her tail beginning to tap a steady beat on the floor, Tonya sipped her tea, watching Spook as she made her own.

 

 Spook cradled the cup in both hands, staring into the contents.  At the time she had set this deal up, she had been acting out of anger and was positive Tonya would back her on her decision.  But now she realized how stupid it had been to let him bait her into accepting the challenge.  Tonya would probably just forfeit and go back home because she didn't need to prove herself.

 

 "Spook, what did you do?" Tonya asked watching her friend warily.

 

 Spook met her friend's worried gaze and realized it was now or never.  Taking a deep breath she began to speak, her eyes dropping back to her cup.  "You remember me telling you about another bounty hunter I met online?"  Tonya nodded.  "I know I shouldn't have done it, but he was making me so angry.  Cutting us down.  Calling us weak, little cowards because I wouldn't accept his challenge."  She looked up at Tonya, her eyes pleading for her to understand.  "He was driving me nuts.  Always following me from chat room to chat room.  Scaring off clients.  So I finally agreed."
 
 Tonya just looked at her blankly.  "Agreed to what?" she asked when it appeared that Spook wasn't going to clarify her statement.

 

 "To a contest."

 

 "A contest," Tonya said.  "Okay.  What do I have to do?"

 

 "Catch the other team's top bounty hunter and avoid being caught by him."  

 

 "Sounds simply enough," Tonya said and sipped her tea.  "When do I start?"

 

 "Yo...you're not mad?" Spook asked wide eyed

 

 "Should I be?" Tonya asked cocking her head.  "Sounds like fun to me."

 

- -- - - -- -  - -

 

 Spook casually strolled into the sidewalk café looking for her dining companions.  Spotting them, she walked over to the table and the younger one pulled out her chair for her.

 

 "She's not here yet?" she asked the men.

 

 "I don't think so," the older man answered.  "We didn't exchange pictures of ours competitors."

 

  "Well, she's always had a knack for showing up when she thought it appropriate.  That might be her now," Spook said nodding towards the latest arrival to the café.   

 

 "You mean that little mouse?" the older one scoffed.  The girl in question peered around nervously as she made her way over to them.  "She doesn't look like she could hold her own in a library let alone an alley way.  What kind of trick are you trying to pull?" he asked angrily.

 

 "Gannon," the younger man said glaring at his partner.  "I would have thought you, with all the Role playing you do, would have realized by now that looks can be deceiving."  He stood and pulled out a chair for the girl.

 

 "Thank you," she said, her soft voice adding to her mouse like demeanor.  She was dressed in a soft blue fabric that was feminine but hid her form, while her mousy brown hair was pulled back into a bun.  Wire rimmed glasses balanced carefully on her nose, and she was clutching her purse nervously.  She squirmed and fidgeted under the measuring gaze of the older man.

 

"You're late," he growled. 

Tonya raised an eyebrow and fixed him with a look, her slate gray eyes sparkling with an inner strength that belayed her frightened appearance.  "A neko is never late, Mr. Bounty Hunter.   Nor is she early.  She arrives precisely when she means too."

 

The older man snorted and his partner frowned at him again.  "So you are the great bounty hunter Felina Archer?  It's a pleasure to meet you," the younger man said extending his hand across the table.  "I am your adversary, McGinnis.  This is my accomplice."

 

A smile crossed her face as she took his hand.  "I have heard of you," she replied.  She grinned at Spook.  "This won't be as easy as I thought, but still lots of fun."

 

"Well the rules are simple," Gannon began.  "Starting at sunrise tomorrow, you two have until Sunday to track down and capture your opponent.  You are not to kill or unnecessarily injure your target.  Once your opponent is subdued and in your possession, you are to inform your contact.  Then you will bring your captive to the meeting place and the winner will be declared."  He gave Tonya a patronizing look.  "Any questions?"

 

 "Just one," Tonya answered smiling sweetly. "If you bring in your opponent's annoying contact, do we get extra points?"

 

 Both McGinnis and Spook smirked at her comment, but Gannon glared daggers at her.  "I'll be waiting for your call, McGinnis," he said standing abruptly.  "Good day."

 

 Sighing heavily, McGinnis smiled apologetically at the girls.  "He isn't usually like this.  He's really much worst when you get to know him."

 

- - - - - --- -

 

 "Aren't you going to sleep tonight?"

 

 Tonya didn't turn or start at the sound of her mentor's voice.  "I already have.  I plan to sleep a bit this afternoon as well, probably during the heat of the day.  The game starts at sunrise." 

 

 "When was the last time you saw the sunrise?"

 

 She turned slightly to look at the woman dressed in the traditional garb of a geisha. "Last Saturday.  I had to open the park."  Tonya smiled.  "And you, Madam Vu?"

 

 "I watch it rise everyday.  You never know when you will never get the chance again," she answered smiling back.  "I made you some lunch to take with you today."  She handed the wooden lunch box to Tonya, her eyes laughing as the girl eyed the box warily.  "I promise there are no squid or other sea dwellers hidden within."

 

 Tonya chuckled.  "You know me too well.  Isn't this called an obento?" 

 

Madam Vu nodded.

 

 "And aren't they made by Japanese mothers for their preschoolers?"

 

 Madam Vu laughed as Tonya mocked glared at her.  "Yes," she answered.  "But it works just as well for a bounty hunter who wants a light meal."  The smile faded.  "Be careful today, Tonya.  I will not be able to find you as easily if something happens while the sun is up."

 

 "Don't worry," Tonya said, "I have no desire to die today."

 

 "She isn't sure, but Daemon's last known location was Japan," Vu said quietly.  "I thought you should know."

 

 The cocky smirk had disappeared at the mention of the man's name.  Pain, fear, hate, and anger warred across her features before a bored expression settled on her face.  "Thank you.  I'll keep that in mind."

 

 "Tonya, forget about him for now." Vu put a hand on the girl's shoulder, but she looked away.  The woman started to say something else, then Vu noticed the scars on her neck.  "What's this?"

 

 Tonya frowned slightly.  "What?"  She unconsciously covered the marks with her hand, trying to meet Vu's unwavering gaze. 

 

 "Those look like fang marks," Vu accused quietly.  "I thought we discussed this."

 

 "He's not a vampire," Tonya quickly replied.  "I'm the one who started it.  You can meet him after the competition is over and he comes to visit."  She glanced over her shoulder at the lightening sky.  "I have to go now.  Thanks for lunch."  Turning quickly, Tonya ran from the garden and out into the city.
  
- --------
Tonya's tail tip flicked as she stood on the roof watching her quarry.  She had been following him most of the day and was quite impressed with his technique.  He had become aware that he was being followed much quicker than most, though he couldn't figure out who it was.  Tonya had only kept him in sight for the most part; the streets were too full of treasure to stalk him with more intent.  On top of that, Tonya had no intent to capture him in full view of the public.  That could be dangerous for both of them; police might arrest them and they would probably be photographed.  Either could draw unwanted attention to them both.

 

 Now the sun was descending to its bed, the sky becoming a vivid tapestry of color.  Yawning, she watched him walk into one of the classier clubs and a smirk crossed her lips.  This could be her chance to get him alone.  Checking for witnesses, she jumped lightly down to the street and entered the bar. 

 

 As always, she checked the room for danger, noting all escape routes and possible weapons.  Her own gun was a pleasant weight against her side, resting in its holster until it was needed.  Out of habit, she also noted the differences between this bar and most of the ones in the US.  No smoke cloud hazed her vision, the patrons were talking quietly and drinking slowly, and the music wasn't blaring, letting people talk instead of shouting to be heard.  The waitresses were polite and attentive as ever, nodding to her as she surveyed the scene. 

 

 With a flip of her shoulder length hair, Tonya sauntered over to the bar.  Sitting down on a stool, she absently tapped on the foot rail with one foot, watching the bartender out of the corner of her eye.  A movement in the mirror caught her eye, causing her lip to curl ever so slightly as an over amorous suitor received a lap full of an ice cold beverage.

 

 "<What can I get for you tonight?>" the bartender asked in Japanese.

 

 "<The usual,>" Tonya answered with a smile.

 

 He paused and looked at the young woman before him again.  The smile turned into a devilish smirk and she winked before the disarming smile reappeared.  Nodding slightly, he dipped, opened a small cabinet, and pulled out a can of Dr. Pepper.  With the deft motions that come from years of practice, he poured it into a glass and presented into her.  She placed her payment on the bar and sampled her drink.

 

 Wiping a spot on the bar, he spoke softly.  "<I assume she already told you 'he' is in town?>"

 

 "Hai."

 

 "<The Red Dragon has also been busy.  There could be trouble if they realize you're back in Tokyo.>"

 

 Tonya gave him an innocent look.  "<Don't tell me they're still mad about that little drug bust.>"  She sighed and pouted.  "<It was an accident.  I was after someone else.  Why can't they let it go?>"

 

 "<May be because you cost them a few million and got several top people thrown in jail?>"

 

 "<Anas, you wound me.  I thought you were on my side,>" Tonya replied in mock indignation.

 

 Anas ignored her look, watching someone behind her.  "<The man who came in before you is sitting in the back corner.  Try not to break anything.>"

 

 "HEY BAR KEEP!"

 

 Tonya tried not to wince too much as the young man practically yelled in her ear.  She turned to look at him better and to make her escape.  American, she thought. How typical.

 

 He had obliviously been drinking and leered at her.  She had a brief flash back to a harmless trip to Mentor with Poopsie involving an out of control Bar-B-Que grill.  Tonya started to stand to leave when he pushed her back down by trying to lean on her shoulder.

 

 "Hey baby, what do ya say about you and me having some fun?" he asked, slurring the words slightly.

 

 She tried not to gag and looked away.  "I don't usually talk to strangers," she replied with a Japanese accent.

 

 He grabbed for her hand and succeeded on the second try.  Shaking it vigorously, he patted his chest with the other.  "Name's Mark Franklin.  What's yours, sexy legs?"

 

 "Keiko Sayonara."

 

 "So now that we know each other...I have a condom...wanna share it?" he asked his hand on her thigh.

 

 Tonya just stared at him in complete shock.  That was the last thing she had expected him to say even though she was expecting something along that line of thought.  "Sally?" she said softly.

 

 "Huh?"

 

 "Never mind," Tonya said waving her hand dismissively, wondering what her blond roommate would think when she told her about this.  She looked at the man again trying to gauge how drunk he actually was.  "Tell you what?" she purred cupping his cheek with her hand.  "My sister would like to be in on some of this action as well.  Why don't you run along to my place and keep her company while I 'collect' a few 'things'?  Hmmm?"

 

 "Is she hot?"

 

 "Like a volcano, baka," Tonya said turning to jot down the address.

 

 "Baker?  What's that mean?" he asked as he took the paper.

 

 "Ask my sister to show you," Tonya said with a wink and pointed him to the door.

 

 He grinned and walked briskly as he could outside.  Anas waited until he was gone to chuckle.

 

 "<Evil, purely evil, Kitten,>" he chided.  "<Does Kimiko know she's going to be having company?>"

 

 Tonya frowned for half a second before remembering 'Kimiko' was Madam Vu's first name.  "<He'll just wake up with a sore neck and a fuzzy memory.  And she won't mind the company.  He's young and handsome.>" Her ear twitched slightly as she heard someone coming up from behind and turned her attention to her drink.

 

 "What can I get for you?" Anas said.

 

 "Do you have any Guinness?" McGinnis asked hopefully.

 

 "On tap and bottled."

 

 The man grinned and started to sit down.  He paused and looked at Tonya.  "Is this seat taken?"

 

 "No, you can sit there," she answered with a smile.

 

 "Thank you.  I'll take a pint of Guinness," he said to Anas.

 

 When the frosted mug was sat in front of him, the look on his face reminded Tonya of a kid at Christmas time.  He paid for the drink, then pulled out a fifty, and laid it on the bar.  "Do you know anything about a woman called Felina Archer?  I was told she has been seen here frequently."

 

 Anas picked up the money and looked at it for a long moment, then handed it back.  "People die in Japan every day, but only a fraction from old age. 

Asking about her so openly could get you in trouble.  Several people would like to find her and wouldn't hesitate to use any means necessary to do so," he said quietly.  "Just keep you eyes and ears open.  She'll find you."  With that said, he turned his attention to cleaning the bottles and glasses on the back counter.  

 

 McGinnis just sat there for a moment then sampled his drink.  He drank it slowly, apparently deep in thought.  When he'd finished he nodded to Tonya, then Anas, stood up and left.  Tonya watched him leave trying to decide whether or not to follow.  Making her decision, she rose and straightened her jacket.  Turning to say good-bye to her friend, she noticed from his reflection that he was smiling to himself.

 

 "<What did you do?>" she asked raising an eyebrow.

 

"<Hmm?  Oh nothing.>"

 

 "<Yeah right,>" she said.  Her eyes narrowed and she put her hands on her hips.  "Anas," she growled.

 

 He laughed at her expression as he looked at her in the mirror.  "<Let's just say you may have a visitor tomorrow if he checks his money.>"

 

- ----- - - - - -

 

 Tonya tucked her fan inside her sleeve and mentally checked to make sure she had everything.  It would not do to forget something and damage her image as a Geiko.  Several of the Maiko in the house looked up to her and claimed her as a sister, though she could not formally train any of them because she usually resided in America.

 

 She was going to stay at the teahouse for the day, partly in case McGinnis showed up. Also, one of the maikos was ill so she would be taking her place, lessening the workload for the others.  Madam Vu's teahouse was unusual in the fact it was one of the only teahouses in Japan that had an informal afternoon tea ceremony.  While the male only rule still applied, a person did not have to be formally introduced to the owner or have a long-standing connection to the teahouse.  Truthfully, that was the only difference between the afternoon teas and those in the evenings; that and the geishas only performed the Miyako Odori and cherry dances during the formal teas.

 

 Spook smiled and bowed slightly as Tonya entered the tearoom.  Tonya returned the bow and bowed to the other present.  Taking her place, she took a deep breath as the Maikos began to escort the customers into the room.  The girls had been briefed about the possibility of McGinnis showing up for tea and Vu had made sure all had seen the sketch Tonya had provided.  Most had been through similar events before, and no one showed surprise when he walked through the door.
 
 Tonya greeted her opponent in the traditional fashion, and for the next hour and a half played the role of a geisha to a tee.  When he left, McGinnis had no idea how close he had been to ending the contest for the second time in twenty-four hours.  Hiding her smile behind her fan, Tonya watched him leave before slipping back into her role and greeted another customer.

- - - --- - - - -

 McGinnis stood on the docks, watching the stars trek silently across the sky.  He checked his watch and sighed; Gannon was late, very late.  This was the first time his partner had kept him waiting for over two hours.  That man seemed to run on his own time, as fast or as slow as he wanted to suit his needs.  And the pompous old man got some kind of thrill out of wasting time that could be better put to use tracking down his mark.

 

 Especially this one, he thought.  Felina seemed to be two steps ahead of him the entire time and he wouldn't be the least surprised if she walked up and...

 

 "Nice night isn't it?" Tonya asked revealing her position.  She'd been watching him for the last two hours, slowly moving closer.  Dressed in black, she was hard to pick out in the darkness and was practically standing right beside him, leaning back against a shipping crate.

 

 He gave her a rueful smile.  "Speak of the devil," he said softly.  "I thought you might show up.  The bartender was right."

 

 "Don't tell him that," Tonya said with a smirk.  The wind shifted as she opened her mouth to say something else, and she froze.  She lunged forward, knocking him down as a spray of bullets ripped through the air.

 

 They scrambled behind some crates, Tonya pulling her gun and flipping the safety off.  Closing her eyes as bullets ripped chunks from the wood, she counted the number of guns by the sound of the firing mechanisms.  McGinnis touched her arm, then gestured they could move, his gun drawn and ready.  She nodded and they slipped away, but dove behind another stack as more gunfire erupted to cut them off.

 

  "Friends of yours?" he whispered.

 

 "'Fraid so," she whispered back.  "Red Dragon Crime Syndicate.  There are at least twenty guys."

 

 "You guessing or did you count when we moved?"

 

 "They usually send about twenty and I hear about that many different gun reports."

 

 "Ready?" he asked as the gunfire began to diminish as the clips emptied.

 

 "Yeah."

 

 They waited a moment more than burst from their hiding place.  A shout announced they'd been seen and shots rang out after them.  Tonya fired back and was rewarded with a yell of pain from one of the gunmen.  McGinnis grabbed her arm and pulled her along as the men charged after the fleeing duo, guns blazing.  Twisting and dodging, he lead the way through the maze of boxes and crates, his grip never loosening on her arm.

 

 It seemed that they had lost their pursuers for the moment, and he paused.  Tonya looked back behind them, listening while McGinnis peered into the darkness before them.  A stray bullet whizzed past his head and he could hear them getting closer.  Tonya raised her gun to shoot, but he stopped her and pushed her behind some boxes.

 

 "Stay," he hissed then took off running.  "Over here," he called overly loud, "they'll never find us."  The men rushed past her chasing his voice, missing her in the dark, and she ducked back into the shadows.

 

 "Baka," she growled softly.  She slipped after them silently, realizing that they were quickly running out of dock. 

 

 She saw McGinnis find the edge of the docks and hesitate.  The men ran up behind him, forming a firing line.  "Where is Felina Archer?" one man barked.

 

 "I don't know," McGinnis answered.  "Hopefully far away by now."

 

 "Too bad for you.  Fire!"

 

 McGinnis dove off the dock as the guns blasted.  The line ran forward as one unit and fired into the water.  Tonya watched in horror, knowing that there was nothing she could do to save her opponent turned ally.  Bowing her head, she faded back into the darkness as they continued to strafe the bay until their clips were empty.  Without a word, the men turned and left, never guessing that their quarry was less then fifty feet away. 

 

 Tonya waited until she heard the cars pull away before moving to the end of the dock.  She scanned the bay, hoping against hope that he had survived somehow.  The dark, inky water revealed nothing, and her attention turned to the lights across the bay.  One of those diamonds possibly illuminated McGinnis's partner, Gannon.  The arrogant fool had a lot to answer for this night, but she would let her anger cool until she could think of a fitting reward for his treachery.

 

 A clock tower sounded the hour's passing as she kept her silent vigil.  Just before the clock sounded eleven, she saw a dark shape cutting through the water.  It was moving way too fast to be a human, too small for a whale, but no seals lived in this bay.  She lost it to the darkness and stood up as the clock began to chime.  Turning to go, she heard voices and decided to investigate.

 

 Leaping up onto the crates, she quickly located the people.  Curiosity aroused, she moved in closer to see what they were doing.  Her breath caught as she saw the contents of the crate they were checking.  Though badly in need of major restoration, Tonya was able to recognize the twin Vampire motorcycles.  The English had called them the Gemini, but the Japanese owner who had commissioned them had named them Yin and Yang.  He had purchased them for his twin sons and the motorcycles hadn't been seen for over twenty years.

 

 She over heard the name "Christionson" as they began to close up the crate.  The words "crazy" and "rich fool" were used to describe the man who she guessed to be the buyer.  She turned to leave then paused as they began to paint the number on the side.  Knowing she would never remember, she still watched as the numbers took shape.  Her jaw dropped in surprised shock, then a smirk tugged at the corners of her mouth. 

 

 "Two, seven, one, nine, eight, two.  Nope.  No way I'll remember that," she whispered.  Taking to the air, she left the docks and began her hunt.

 

 One of her first tasks when this trial had begun had been to figure out where Gannon was staying.  Landing in the alleyway, she quietly slipped around the side and into the building.  She suppressed a growl as she spotted her prey eating and laughing with one of the heads of the Syndicate.  Apparently they had yet to be informed of her escape for they seemed quite pleased with themselves.  Memory said the man's name was Mik Fong, and his bodyguards were probably somewhere near by. 

 

 Both men stood as Gannon nodded and said good night.  He headed for the elevator alone and Tonya grinned.  Cutting across the restaurant after her target, she purposely brushed past Fong.  He turned with a frown and she blew him a kiss as she jumped into the elevator with Gannon.  Fong's eyes widened as he realized her identity and he shouted for his guards.  He ran towards the elevator, but the doors shut before he could get half way there.  His guards ran up and he informed them that Felina Archer was on the elevator and that Gannon had double-crossed them.  They ran for the stairs, determined not to let this deceit go unpunished.

 

 Gannon on the other hand was still oblivious to the danger he was in now.  Tonya waited until the other passengers had disembarked onto their floors before even making eye contact.  She smiled at him and he grinned, but it faded when she pulled her gun and pointed it at him.

 

 "Hello Gannon," Tonya said sweetly.  "Do you double cross people often or just on days that end in Y?"

 

 "Felina Archer?" he gasped.  "How did you..."

 

 "He saved me," she said quietly cocking the gun.  "He made me hide, then lead them away.  McGinnis died to save me."  Her eyes were cold with hate.  "Why did you do it?"

 

 "Do you know the size of the bounty on your head?" Gannon answered.  "I could buy a small country with the money they are offering for you."

 

 "And what about McGinnis?  Was he part of the deal too?"

 

 "No, that was a bonus.  He was always letting bounties go because they told him they were innocent.  Or he'd find the proof and nullify the bounty.  I lost millions because of him."

 

 Tonya's smile chilled him to the core.  "Well, you're about to lose a lot more," she replied as the elevator opened on his floor.  She grabbed him and forced him to march down the hall.  She put the barrel against his temple, never letting up her grip on his arm.  "Open it."

 

 He hurried to comply, his hands shaking as he fumbled with the keys.  Sweat gathered on his brow as he desperately tried to get the latch to work.  After what seemed to be an eternity, he succeeded and she shoved him into the blackness of the room.  The lights blazed and Tonya reflexively ducked and jumped to the side, drawing her second gun.  Her eyes widened and she heard Gannon sputtering as he slumped into a chair by the wall.  The man was a white as a sheet and looked like he was going to have a heart attack. 

 

 "So you did escape," McGinnis said calmly holding his gun on Gannon.  He was sitting on the edge of the bed, still dripping wet from his dip in the bay.

 

 "Thanks to you," Tonya said putting the second gun away.  "But I wish I'd known you were still alive.  I..."

 

 A loud pounding on the door cut her off.  "Gannon!  Open this door now!" yelled Fong.  "Or we'll break it down!"

 

 "I forgot to tell you I ran into Fong downstairs," Tonya said to Gannon.  "I think he thinks we're working together."  It didn't seem possible but the man turned even whiter.

 

 "I think it's a fitting end for you, Gannon," McGinnis said.  "I hope you have fun with your new friends.  But how do we get out of here?" he asked as the door framed began to shake with the force of the men's blows.  Tonya pointed to the window.  "But we're twenty floors up!"

 

 "Do you trust me?" Tonya asked.  McGinnis swallowed hard then nodded.  "Then hold on tight," she answered and shot the window. 

 

He grabbed her arm and they jumped out the window just as the door broke.  They heard the shots whistle pass them and Gannon incoherent yelling as he tried to explain himself.  Landing lightly on a neighboring building, Tonya pulled him with her as she ran.  She jumped from building to building until they were several blocks from the hotel.

 

"Whoa," McGinnis said.  His legs collapsed under him and he sat down hard on the rooftop.  "That was a wild ride."

 

"I'm glad to see you're okay," Tonya said kneeling beside him.  "But I think you'll need a new partner.  They may not kill him, but I don't think he'll be doing much if they let him go."

 

"Yeah."  He looked at her for a moment.  "What about you?"

 

"Oh, Spook's okay and I know she would never do something like this."

 

"I meant, would you consider being my partner?  I think we work well together," he said softly.

 

Tonya's eyes widened again and she stood quickly.  "I already have a boyfriend."

 

"I just meant for bounty hunting," he corrected quickly. 

 

"Oh, I ...ahh...I'll ask Spook and have her get back to you on that," Tonya said still flustered.  "I have to go now, take care."  Then she jumped onto the fire escape and disappeared into the dark.

 

McGinnis smiled to himself and shook his head.  While she was quite attractive, she really didn't seem to be his type.  But as a partner...well now that could be fun, he thought.  But finding her again...

 

- - - - - - - - -

After an excellent night's sleep and an entire morning of searching, McGinnis was once again out of ideas.  He walked into Anas's bar and sat down at the bar.  Anas had spotted him immediately and came right over.

 

 "So I hear the contest is over," he said.

 

 "Yeah."

 

 "Pint of Guinness?"

 

 "Sure."

 

 "I'm not sure if she told you yet," Anas said pouring his drink, "but they decided to call it a draw under the circumstances.  I believe the money has already been transferred to your account."  He sat the mug in front of the startled man.

 

 "You really do know her well, don't you?"

 

"I should.  She's like a niece to me.  I've know her for years."

 

"If that's true, why were you trying to help me?"

 

"Several reasons.  The first is that you seem like a nice young man.  Chivalry is a virtue that few men possess these days, but it's easy to spot.  Just by looking at you, I can tell you hunt for the sport, not the money.  You're the type that risks their neck to find the truth, not the cash cow.  The second, and more important thing was that she wasn't afraid of you."

 

"She told you that?"

 

"No, but I could tell when you sat down next to her."

 

McGinnis's jaw dropped.  "The girl who was here when I asked about Felina.  That was her all along?"  Anas nodded and McGinnis frowned.  "And at the Geisha House, she was one of them as well?"

 

"She is very good at hiding and disguises.  Tokyo is her playground.  Felina told me what you did on the docks last night," Anas said.  "I thank you, but it wasn't necessary.  She could have escaped easily, but she was worried about you."  He paused.  "I'm sorry to hear about your partner."

 

"Don't worry about it," McGinnis said finishing his drink.  "How much was it again?"

 

"On the house."

 

"Thanks," McGinnis said and started for the door.

 

"If you want to find her, she's picking up her boyfriend at the airport right now.  His plane should get in about one."

 

  McGinnis smiled and saluted Anas before hurrying out the door.
- - - - - - - - -

"Hello, Ms. Archer." 

 

Tonya smiled slowly and flipped her braid over her shoulder.  "I was wondering if you'd be able to recognize me."  She was out of costume because it was unnecessary, but he didn't know that.

 

"Well, it was either you, or the old lady smoking.  I doubted that you would smoke and didn't think you'd greet you boyfriend as a man, so..." He shrugged.

 

"You've been talking to Anas again," she accused.  "Oh, Spook thought it would be okay, but you'll be on a probation period for a few months."

 

"Thank you."

 

"You're welcome.  So why are you here?"

 

"Just checking out my competition," he said smirking.

 

"Flight 284 now arriving from California," a loud speaker rasped in English, Japanese, and a few other languages.

 

Less then five minutes later, Tonya spotted Zarbon heading their general direction.  Her mouth dropped slightly as she got a good look at him and she peeked over her sunglasses to get a better view.  Wetting her lips, she let out a loud wolf whistle, smirking as he paused and looked her direction.  He smirked back and causally strolled over to stand in front of her.

 

"Looking good, Koi," she purred admiring his outfit. 

 

"You too, Koibito," he replied sitting his sunglasses on top of his head.  She followed his example and gold gazed into emerald without interruption.  "Miss me?" he asked opening his arms.

 

She stepped into his embrace, buried her face against his shoulder inhaling his scent and the fragrant of leather from his coat.  "With all my heart," she answered meeting his gaze again.

 

He brushed back an errant lock of hair, then kissed her gently.  Tonya melted into the kiss and he deepened it.  The kiss stated more than words how much they had missed each other, and they spent a few moments enjoying their reunion.  As they broke again, she remembered McGinnis was there and glanced towards him.

 

He was studying a travel poster on the wall, trying to ignore the couple.  She coughed he glanced at her.  "Love, this is my opponent turned partner..."

 

"McGinnis!?  Dylan McGinnis?!  Is that really you?  I haven't seen you for, what is it, six years now?  How have you been?" Zarbon interrupted to step forward and shake the other man's hand.

 

"Yes it's me.  And it's only been five.  Mom was wondering how you were just the other day.  She wanted me to find you and ask you to dinner."

 

Tonya looked from one man to the other, confusion plain on her face.  They continued talking for several minutes before Zarbon remembered she was standing there. 

 

"So you're the reason I didn't get to spend the first half of spring break with my angel," Zarbon accused teasingly, pulling Tonya close with an arm around her waist.

 

"If I'd known she was with you, I wouldn't have accepted the challenge," McGinnis answered.

 

Tonya looked at Zarbon, hoping he would explain later.  He noticed the look and smiled.  "Kitten, this is my old friend and sometimes partner, Dylan McGinnis of Ireland.  He's helped me quite a bit over the years," Zarbon said.  "Dylan, this is my koibito, Tonya D___ of the United States."  He felt Tonya stiffen, but he was looking at McGinnis who nodded.

 

"You're secret is safe with me," he replied.

 

"I hate to break up this party, but Madam Vu is expecting us for afternoon tea," Tonya said.

 

"Well, then I guess I'll catch you..." Dylan began.

 

"She expecting you as well," Tonya interrupted. "She likes to meet the people we work with."

 

They grabbed Zarbon's luggage and headed for the cabs.  "We'll never get a cab at this time of day," McGinnis informed them.

 

Tonya laughed and produced a loud trilling whistle that was almost immediately answered.  "There's our transport now," Tonya said pointing to the young man sitting on the hood of his cab waving.

 

- - - - - - - - - -

The boys stood on the porch of the beautiful mansion that stood behind the geisha house.  Madam Vu kept both in the traditional style and design, along with the garden in the courtyard.  Zarbon and Dylan were nervous.  They had never met the owner of a teahouse before.  Tonya had gone inside to talk to Madam Vu over ten minutes ago and the boys were starting to wonder if they'd been forgotten.  Finally, a geisha came to the door and let them inside.  After taking off their shoes, they followed her into the company room.  Madam Vu stood and greeted them with a bow, which they returned.

 

"So you're the young man that our lovely neko was chasing around the city," she said to Dylan.  "I wish I could have met you the first time you came in, but I thought I might give her away.  I hope you enjoy working with my girls and that you live a long, happy life."

 

"Thank you, Madam Vu," Dylan said bowing again.

 

"You are welcome here anytime," she replied.  "But I believe Zo wishes to speak with you now.  Kiki?" She called to the geisha.  "Take this young man to Zo, she's expecting him.  Oh, Zo is Spook's proper name, dear.  Have fun."

 

They watched him leave and Vu turned her full attention to Zarbon.  He swallowed hard as he suddenly felt like a mouse cornered by a cat.  He wondered if this was how Alec when he had to meet Poopsie father.  It was strange; he hadn't even been this nervous when he had met Tonya's parents.  Wiping his palms on his pants, he wished Tonya would reappear from wherever she had disappeared to.

 

"You are the young man whom Tonya is in love with," Madam Vu stated walking around him.

 

"Y-yes," he answered standing perfectly at attention even thought his knees felt like jelly.

 

"How old are you?"

 

"Twenty six."  He could tell she was frowning and quickly added, "but I'll be twenty seven in July."  The brief thought that she could read minds crossed his mind, but he dismissed it.

 

"Don't be so sure I can't," she warned coming around front of him again.  "So I see she hasn't told you much about me."

 

"No, ma'am."

 

"Have you slept with her?"

 

"Ahhh, I ummm, yes, but we didn't.." he rambled, feeling the terror pooling in his stomach increase.  Her eyes were so deep and mysterious; he felt he was going to drown.

 

Suddenly, her hand shot out and turned his head so she could see the fang marks on his neck.  She forced him to meet her gaze again, firmly grasping his chin.  "Where did you get these marks?"

 

"Madam Vu!" Tonya chided coming back from her errand.  She carried the good china they used for entertaining guests, but was frowning darkly at her mentor.

 

Madam Vu released Zarbon and he blinked dazedly.  "I just wanted to ask him a few questions," she answered smiling.  "You know I wouldn't hurt him. 

You're like a daughter to me and I was just making sure we understood each other.  No hard feeling, Zarbon?"

 

"No, ma'am," he answered bowing.

 

"Good.  And now that you're back Tonya," she said with a smile, "I can interrogate you both."

 

- - - - - -- - -

 

"Okay, now I have another question for you," Dylan said as they came out of yet another shop.  "Were you stalking me or window shopping the whole time?"

 

Zo and Zarbon laughed as Tonya smirked.  "Multitasking again, Koi?" Zarbon asked.

 

"Well, if you at least pretend to be interested in something else, your mark won't pick up the fact you're following them as quickly," Tonya answered.

 

 "What time did you two need to be back to prepare for tonight?" Zarbon asked as the sound of clock chimes reached them.

 

"By at least four," Zo answered.  She looked at Tonya.  "We have a lot to do."

- - - - - - -  ---

 

"I wonder if we'll see them again tonight," Dylan said.  "Or at least recognize them."

 

"Probably not," Zarbon answered.  "But I'm curious about the special event after this.  Tonya promised it would be spectacular."

 

The tea ceremony was excellent and the geishas and maikos performed their dances beautifully.  The geisha waiting on them was very friendly, but they couldn't be certain, which of the girls it was, if it was them at all.  The geisha were dressed in a rainbow of silk with many different patterns, with no clue to the identity of the wearer.  On top of that, the incense that perfumed the air made it impossible for Zarbon to make a definite choice.  After the dances were done and most of the customers had left, a geisha came to lead them to the place of the next performance.

 

"Zo?" Zarbon asked as they walked outside into the clear night air.

 

She smiled at him and gave a slight nod.  "But in this costume, I am called Yumi." 

 

Zo parted the curtains that hung from the trees, cutting off this part of the yard from the rest.  Several low tables filled with people, mostly men, filled the area.  She led them to the main table where Madam Vu sat with a number of men.  Another geisha was filling their cups, as were the others waiting on the other tables.  All the geisha here, including Zo, were wearing a rich indigo silk kimono with a light purple obi with varying patterns.

 

The curtains were the same green as the foliage, decorated with vines and leaves to further disguise them.  Beautiful paper lanterns lit the area, while incense and candles flickered on the tables.  Zarbon and Dylan bowed to Madam Vu and her guests who returned the bow.  Then Zarbon actually looked at their companions as he sat down and froze.  Dylan paused as well and a goofy grin crossed his face before returning to his normal smile.

 

"Elves," he breathed to Zarbon.  "Real elves."

 

"Hello Elrond," Zarbon said nodding to the elvish king.  "Legolas.  Aragorn.  Asha.   Aidan.  Ash'rai."  He greeted each of his friends in turn, and then sat down.

 

"Hello Zarbon," Elrond replied.  "Surprising to see you here."

 

"Is Tonya with you?" Legolas asked.

 

"She's somewhere, but I have no idea where," Zarbon answered.

 

Just then the music started, soft and sweet, and the audience fell silent.  It grew louder and the older patrons watched the far side of the stage with an eagerness that rivaled kids on Christmas morning.  With the stealth of a ninja, a geisha appeared, dressed in a royal blue kimono decorated with paler blue cranes in flight.  Her obi was the same pale blue and her hair, black as ink, was up in a Taka Shimada.  A decorated sheath hung from her side, glittering.

 

She bowed to the audience and began her dance.  After a couple of moments, she drew the magnificent sword from the sheath.  It flashed and sang as she danced, cutting through the air with ease.  Zarbon watched the display of grace and swordsmanship with an appreciative eye, wishing Tonya could see this.

 

Suddenly, as she began another series of intricate movements, he remembered one morning last summer.  Sally, Daniel, and himself were going over to the side lawn to work on some self-dense movement.  They had stumbled upon Tonya in a kimono doing these exact movements with a wooden sword.  When she had finished, Sally had remarked she was holding the sword wrong, startling Tonya.  His lover had frozen then bolted for the house.

 

It couldn't be, he thought, could it?

 

The geisha flipped the sword into the air and caught it with her opposite hand by the blade.  Slowly, she moved her arm and hand, holding the blade as though to spear herself bring her other hand up to grasp the handle.  Just when it seemed she would plunge the sword into her chest, she caught the hilt and slashed through the air again.  The audience left out a collective sigh of relief as the dancer resumed her dance. 

 

Once again, she flipped the blade into the air, but this time she tilted to the side slightly and caught it in its sheath.  Then folding her hands before her she bowed her head before kneeling down on one knee.  Holding this position for a moment, she then dropped to both knees and dropped her hands to the side, palms up and head still bowed.  She held this position until all the customers had left, except those at the main table.  Rising she crossed the distance gracefully and bowed to all at the table before sitting down.

 

Pulling out her fan, she hid behind it to lessen the gazes of the impressed men, and to hide the surprise on her face.  When she performed, she didn't look at the audience she looked through them as so not to be distracted.  She had known that Zarbon and Dylan were among those watching, but the elves were quite the surprise.

 

"Katana Nimar, these are my friends, King Elrond and his sons Prince Asha, Prince Aidan, and Prince Ash'rai.  Prince Legolas is his nephew and King Aragorn is his son-in-law," Madam Vu said pointing out the royalty first.  She smiled at the other two before introducing them.  "And this is Zarbon Chan and Dylan McGinnis."  She placed a hand on the geisha's shoulder.  "This is my sword maiden, Katana Namir.  And my niece, Zo Kamali, who is called Yumi while in costume."

 

"It is a pleasure my lords," the girls answered bowing again.

 

"That was an excellent performance Katana," Elrond said.  "May I see your sword?" Madam Vu nodded and the girl rose.  She dropped to her knees before the elvish king and presented her sword.  "Thank you."  He drew the blade and the others leaned in for a better look.

 

"I thought it looked like an Elvish blade when she was using it," Ash'rai said.  "Now I'm quite certain."

 

"As you should be," Elrond answered smiling.  "I made this blade and its twin about two thousand years ago."

 

"Really?"

 

Elrond met the surprised gaze of the sword maiden, and smiled at the brown-eyed girl.  "Yes.  I was friends with Madam Vu even then.  When marauders attacked her village both her family shrine and the scared blades were destroyed.  I'd admired the swords and, eager to help, I forged her a new set to replace the old."

 

"And if you didn't know they weren't the originals, you couldn't tell they weren't," Madam Vu said.  "But all those that had seen the originals are dead now, except my sister and I."

 

"If I may ask, what are you that you've lived so long?  They are elves, immortal and fair, but while you are beautiful you are not an elf," Dylan said.  Zarbon looked at her waiting for an answer with all the others who didn't know her secret.

 

"It's simple my dear," Madam Vu flashed a fang revealing smile.  "I am a vampire.  Born, not made, well over two thousand years back, as was my older sister.  We prefer to hold to and preserve the old traditions when we can; me with this geisha house, and her with the shrine."

 

"That makes sense," Dylan replied with a nod, not looking the least bit distressed by this information.

 

"That also explains a few things," Zarbon added looking thoughtful.

 

"You seem quite calm about all of this," Zo said.  "Most humans freak out."

 

Zarbon smirked and tried not to laugh.  Dylan mock glared at him, and then replied, "Well, if I was completely human, I might."  He paused.  "But my grandfather, Ronat is a selkie who fell in love with a human.  He married her and had my mother, Ula, who married my father.  So I'm a quarter selkie."

 

Zo's eyebrow arched and she glanced at Katana.  "So, can you change?"

 

"Yes, that's how I survived the incident on the docks," Dylan replied with a grin.  Zo met Katana gaze and shrugged.

 

"And Zarbon's a full alien," Madam Vu added.  "What a group we make."

 

"I wish Tonya could have seen this," Zarbon said as Elrond returned the sword.  "She would have loved it."

 

"No doubt," Legolas said.  "She loved the blades we used on the battle field."

 

"Have you met Tonya?" Asha asked the sword maiden.  "Long brown hair usually braided, bright green eyes, and a wicked sense of humor?"

 

"I know of her," Katana answered quietly.

 

"Where is the other blade?" Elrond asked.  "Do you still do the Double Blade dance here?"

 

"Rarely.  It attracts too much attention usually," Madam Vu replied.  "We had three tabloids try to sneak in the last time.  The other blade is being held in America."

 

"America?" Aragorn asked.  "Why there?"

 

"Katana keeps it safely in her care.  She usually lives there," Zo answered.

 

Zarbon blinked suddenly and looked at Madam Vu.  "Wait...The sword...I'd swear we have one upstairs on display in the mansion," he said.  "If Katana has the other one...Are there replicas?"

 

"I think you'd better tell him, Katana," Madam Vu said.  "Or your young man may become very confused."

 

"Oh darn, just when I was having fun," she said dropping the accent.  She dipped her head behind her fan and went she looked up again, her brown eyes had become green.  "Surprise!"

 

"I don't believe it," Aidan said.

 

Tonya stuck out her tongue and winked.  Just then Kiki came up and bowed.  "Dinner is ready."

 

"Thank you, Kiki," Tonya said.  "Shall we?"

 

The group stood and followed the geisha to the dining table setup on the back patio.  They sat around the table and another group of geisha brought out the food.  They served the food then went back inside.  Zarbon, Zo, Vu, Dylan, and Elrond dug right in, but the other men just looked from the chopsticks to the food and back again.

 

"Like this boys," Tonya said demonstrating.  They tried a few times and Aragorn was the first to successfully get food in his mouth.

 

"What's this?" Zarbon asked sniffing his drink.

 

"Saki," Tonya answered.  "Rice wine.  It's not as potent as Elvish wine, but you'd better go easy on it, Koi."

 

After dinner, the group talked about an hour more before Elrond and his kin had to head for home.  Dylan said good night after making plans to hook back up with Tonya, Zo, and Zarbon in the morning.  Zarbon was sitting on the bed when Tonya came into the room after returning her sword to its place.

 

"What do you think?" she asked, twirling to show off her outfit.

 

"I like it," he said standing.  He caught her around the waist and pulled her close, his hands resting on her waist.  "I really like it." He paused and cocked his head.  "Even with the brown eyes, though I much prefer the green."  She smiled and wrapped her arms around his neck.  He smiled back and they stood there for a moment enjoying each other's company.  "Are there any rules about kissing a geisha?" he asked softly leaning forward.

 

"Not that I've been told," she answered before gently touching her lips to his. 

 

She opened her mouth to his and met his tongue with her own.  Without breaking the kiss, she slipped off her wooden geta clogs and kicked them towards the wall.  He smiled against her mouth and started to move her head to the side more, trying not to mess up her hair.  Suddenly the wig slipped, and she broke the kiss laughing, hand flying up to catch it.

 

"Hilarious," Zarbon said as she continued to giggle.  He released her and she placed the wig on its stand.  She was still laughing to herself and he frowned.  "What?"

 

"Maybe there should be rules," she said smiling like a Cheshire cat.  "Like letting her take her wig off first."

 

"Hn."

 

Tonya yawned and pulled a couple of hairpins from her hair freeing the numerous braids from their tight weave.  "It's getting late and I need a bath before bed."

 

Zarbon nodded and cleared his throat as she began to undo the multiply braids as she stepped towards the bath.  "I...Madam Vu said that I should offer to help remove your make up.  Something about it could be difficult to do by yourself."
 
Tonya just looked at him for a moment, then smirked and turned her back to him.  Untying her obi, she tossed the silk belt onto a chair.  His eyes widened and he wet his lips as she slowly lowered the kimono to reveal her back almost to the waist.  The white makeup cover more then half the distance, and she looked over her shoulder at him.

 

"Thanks for the offer, but I can handle it," she replied and pulled the silk back up into place before walking into the bathroom and shutting the door.

 

He sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose.  "Don't take to long, Koi," he said to the door.  "I'm going to need one, too."  He paused frowning.  "And don't use all the cold water."