Love and Trust - Chapter Three: Grapes for Wine

Author: Ai-Chan Title: Love and Trust (Chapter Three)

## Love & Trust

## Chapter 3: Grapes for Wine

Chapter Select:
[Prologue] [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6]

By: Ai-Chan--ChibiAiChan@cs.com

~*Disclaimer*~
These are in no way my characters! Do you think I'm bright enough to come up with such designs and characteristics? Don't sue me.. You won't get anything anyways, I'm poor *^^*

Again, it was raining. The second time this day, although, now it was quite late. The young woman stood in the middle of the restraunt, broom in hand. Her bright red eyes stared up to the windows, where the drops of rain fell in streams down the glass. She was startled when the rapid knocking at the door was heard. With a light sigh, she made her way to the door. She brushed back her mop of light purple hair that cover her eyes. The door opened. What she found, she could have only guessed.

There stood, a drenched little group. A short, dark-haired girl stood underneath a strange looking man, who held up his cape for her comfort. Another girl stood beside them, she had long hair and green eyes. Her face was also filled with worry. In front of them stood a blonde-haired man. In his arms he carried a young girl, her red hair flowing from his arms she laid in. Then came his plea.

"Please Miss, we need your help!" He cried out despretly, trying to cover the tiny body the best he could. "We need-"

Without a word, the waitress pushed in the people that were at the door, into the warm restraunt. She then dashed off.

"Wh-What?" Sylphiel asked, brushing back her soaked hair. "What is she-"

"Here" The waitress said upon her return. You see, she was never much for words.

"T-Thanks" Replyed the shivering Amelia, quickly placing the blanket around her body. Her eyes then traveled to Lina. "Were sorry to trouble you.."

"No problem." She answered, walking to Gourry and handing him the blanket, and then her arms reached out. "Give her to me."

"Huh?" Gourry asked, looking at Lina, and then the waitress.

"I said, give her to me." The waitress responded again, without the slightest bit of irritation.

"Oh.." Gourry, uneasily, gave up the small girl to the womans arms, and he saw her smile. "She needs to be-"

"Healed, and she needs food, yes."

"How did you-" Gourry was, to say the least, astonished.

"I do, I just do." With that, she began to walk away.

"Hey- Wait!" Zelgadiss said, shocked this lady was just walking away with their friend. "What are you doing?!"

"I'm taking her home. Follow if you like." Answered the waitress, continuing to walk.

They followed her out the door, and down the street. Thats when the reached a rather average looking home. Kinda cozy and welcoming look.. They were invited in.

"Where are you taking her?" Zelgadiss piped up again a few mintues after arriving.

"Her room to change her clothes." Luna said through the door that was shut in the groups face, and after several moments, walked back out. "Who's Gourry?"

Gourry pointed to himself, blinking. "Thats.. Umm.. me!"

"Oh, she was mummbling your name, I was just wondering who she was talking about." Answered Luna.

"O-Oh..." Gourry then tilted his head. "I've been meaning to ask you.. what did you mean by 'taking her home'?"

"I'm her sister."

The group was shocked, well, except Sylphiel and Gourry. In Goury's case, he had forgotten the entire inncident of the note...

"Wow, Lina has a sister?" Gourry asked, looking to Sylphiel, whom had reached out a hand, and was now shaking Luna's.

"It's nice to meet you, I'm sure she'll be glad to be home!"

Of course, all Amelia and Zel could do was stand there, mouths gaping open. They look at eachother, and then back to Luna. When Lina found out..

"I've healed most of her wounds." Luna announced, interuppting both Zel and Amelia's horrible thought. "Its too late for major healing, I'll show you to your rooms." She expected them to follow, like before. Although, now came a comment. No, more a question.

"E-Excuse me, Lina's sister-san?" Asked Gourry, he hadn't moved an inch. "Can I.. stay with Lina?"

"Ohh, didn't know my sister was like that!" Laughed the Knight of Cefieed. "Well... only if you don't touch her!" She grinned, and let me tell you, it wasn't a pleasent one. "If you do, you'll have four Inverse's after you!"

"Its not like that!" Gourry insisted, blushing. "Its just that.." He looked to the floor. "Its just that.. I don't want.. Her to.."

"Yeah, yeah, its too late, hurry, go! Theres a rocking chair in there. Sorry, if you want a more comfortable sleep, come with me, but if you go to her room, I can only offer you a hard wooden floor." She watched him only nod, she turned to leave, a parade behind her. Her eyes then softened, even if no one knew. After all, the mop of hair that covered her eyes never did let her face show much emotion. They walked, and she let herself smile. Her younger sister was indeed growing up, and yes, she was proud. Although, this didn't exclude her from her well deserved punishment...

Gourry looked both ways before entering the little sorceress' room. He had better be careful, if Lina's sister was telling the truth.. There was no way in the nine hells he could handle four Inverse's! Sighing when all was clear, he entered the tiny room. His eyes wandered a mintue, following the walls and ceiling. He looked along the dresser, and the random items upon it. The little music box that sat upon it, her name engraved in it. Several 'little girl' things, what you would have had as a little girl. Finally his eyes found her. She laid on her bed, curled up into a ball. A blanket tightly wraped around her tiny form. Her hair fell loosely off the edge of the bed in orange-red streaks. Slowly he made his way towards her, spoting the rocking chair that sat beside the bed. He took a seat, rocking it lightly, watching her. No, no one would touch her. No one would get past him. He clentched his sword tightly in his hand. "I'll protect you." He said silently.

She slightly moved, and pushed away her blankets. Kicking at the air, and waving her arms in a half asleep fashion. But still, she stayed wordless, and her eyes stayed tightly shut.

By this time, he had stayed in her room a little over an hour, and it was quite late. Dutifully, Gourry leaned over and placed the blanket back over Lina's shoulders, which were shivering from the cool air the window in the corner let in. Quickly Gourry rose from his seat, and shut the drafty window, and than took his seat back beside her. For some reason, even if he tried, he couldn't find sleep. Yawning, he fell heavily into the rocking chair, making it fling back and forth violently.

"Gourry.." Whispered the figure, tightly curled up in a ball on the bed. A wet stream forming down her reddened cheek. She moved a little, grabbing a tight hold on the sheets she laid on.

Gourry was half asleep when she had called his name. His eyes flew open, thinking he was needed... But no, she was still asleep.. Why was she crying? "Lina.." He whsipered, wiping away the stray tear with his large thumb. "Li-"

Her eyes flew open without warning. The tears continued to run down her cheeks to no end. What a horrible, horrible dream.. It had not been about her imprisionment.. It had not been about the one whom had hurt her.. No, she had not hurt her as much as another. No, she had been hurt far worse, and being hurt emotionally was always worse than physically. She froze, where.. where was she?! Her eyes traveled nervously around the room. She was no longer being held as a hostage anymore, that was for sure.. But this place was awfully familar.. OH L-SAMA! I'M HOME! Her mind screamed, making her instantly sit up, to her disadvantage.. "O-Oww.."

"Lina!" The blonde swordsman said quietly, taking her arms, and looking at her with all the worry in the world. And he watched her, look at him in a daze. "Lina? Whats wrong? Why are you crying? Are you hurt badly? Is that why?"

Get away.. Her mind cried, get away.. She pulled her arm away, and pulled her legs over the bed. She stummbled off, and fell to the wall. She clung to it as the pain washed over her, a bandage coming undone. Why hadn't she been healed? She heard him raise from the rocking chair, her body shook with uncertainty. Why am I acting like this?! I'm not acting like myself!! Her mind cried again, she shut her eyes tightly with no where to run.

"Lina, answer me.." He reached out to her, and touched her shaking shoulder lightly. "You shouldn't get up.. I think maybe-" He turned her around as she slowly was opening her eyes. She was biting her lip. Her eyes looked up to him, they were bright with tears. And he could tell, she was upset, about something.. "Lina, tell me.."

Again, she pulled away, and reached out to the dresser to lean on. She had made a distance.. when she fell roughly to the floor. She stayed that way, on the floor, staring at the dirt and dustbunnies. Despretly she tried to clench onto something.. anything.. but the only thing under her was wood.. And you couldn't just pick that up.. She felt herself rising slow from the ground.. But she wasn't pushing herself up.. Thats when she felt strong arms wrap around her waist, supporting her.

"Be careful!" Scolded Gourry, lifting her gently to his arms, and back to the bed. "You don't need to be hurt anymore then you already are..."

Quickly she wiped away the tears with her two balled up fists. She couldn't be weak, even if it was only in front of Gourry!

"You look like you have a fever." He commented, bringing his hand over her forehead. "Hmm.. feels warm.. but I can't tell.." He rose her bangs from her skin, and touched his forehead with hers.

A bright scarlet covered Lina's cheeks, they were so very close.. Yet.. She fell away from him, and looked up toward him. She felt dizzy.. and hungry.. Like she was going to pass out..

"Are you hungry?" Asked Gourry, as if he read her mind.

"I..umm.." Answered Lina in a shaking voice. Really, she hadn't wanted to talk to him.. I mean.. after what she had seen.. Him and-

"I'll get you some food, just show me where the kitchen is, k?"

"Wait!" Lina said, almost too loudly, she covered her mouth. "Wait.. How the hell did you get in my room.. No, wait, better question, why the hell am I in my room? How did I get here?!"

"Huh?" Gourry turned to her. He was just about to go out the door too.. "Oh, thast easy!" He smiled, turning around fully. "Your sis-" That was enough to send Lina under her bed. "Hey, Lina?"

"Yes..?" She answered, an echo sounding from under the bed.

He bent down, and peeked under the bed. This was hard, for a tall man like himself to do. "Are you going to stay under there all night?"

"Maybe.." She answered again, meekly.

"Are you still hungry?"

It was silent for a moment, and then a rummble of a stomach was heard. "Kinda.."

"Wheres the kitchen?" He asked again, and watched Lina's hand fly out from under the bed. She pointed off to the right. It must be that way.. "Okay!" He said cheerfully before bounding out of the room.

Lina sighed as she heard the door shut. Her head it the floor. "How lovely.."

The door shut, and Gourry again looked both ways, for fear of the Inverse's. He tip-toed down the hall, to make sure he wouldn't wake up anyone. His eyes searched, and finally came up sucessful with a kitchen. Smiling, he walked into the room. As soon as he entered, he began his search. He checked all the cabniets and drawers. And the magic made freezer. Luckily he came up with something. "I sure hope she likes sweet patetoes.." He whispered to himself before rushing back to the room.

And leaving the kitchen an utter mess.

Upon arriving, he still found Lina under her bed. Of course, that was no surprise to him. You see, seeing Lina dash under her bed brought up a fuzzy memory.. He knew it had something to do with a note and buring herself.. But hey, it was a mircle, at least he remembered somthing! "Lina!" He called in a hush whisper, taking a seat on the floor. "Your food-" Her hand flew out from under the bed, and brought the food under with her. A few munching sounds were heard before the basket was returned to Gourry's lap. "Is here.. was here.." He corrected himself, and sighed.

"Thanks.." Came the voice of Lina moments after she had devoured the food.

"Are you ready to go to sleep?" Asked Gourry, standing up and placing the basket on her dresser, picking up the music box instead.

"Maybe.." Lina answered yet again.

He sighed, this time loudly. "Lina, ya know its really late..."

"Then go to sleep."

"Lina! I can't!" He cried, almost dropping the box.

"Why not? Your tired, right?"

"Thats not the point.." He looked to the bed Lina was situated under.

"Sure you can, you close you eyes and if your tired sleep follows! Really Gourry, I know your slow.. But I'm sure you can handle sleeping!"

"Lina, but you-"

"What about me?!" She cried out defensively. "I'm sure Sylphiel can handle whatever you need!" Quickly she covered her mouth. She didn't mean to mention her! Damn!

"What about her?" Inquired Gourry, accidently opening the box and letting the music play.

"Gourry!"

"Sorry.." He replyed quickly, placing the music box back down and bending down to look back under the bed.

Lina blushed, not wanting to open her mouth again..

"What about her?" Repeated Gourry, his looking couriously at her.

"N-Nothing.."

"Has to be something.." Gourry said, thinking. "Is this going to be a guessing game?"

"No.. go to bed Gourry.. your tired, remember?"

He sighed loudly, and looked at her. He wasn't fooling around. "Lina, please just tell me, what about Sylphiel?"

"Its just that.." She froze, what was she going to say to him..? Wait, what about Sylphiel? Why was she so angry? I mean.. they just kissed, right? Why should she get so worked up about them kissing? Her chest her hurt again. Why does it do that now?

"Its just that..?" Gourry pushed further, hoping she would continue her sentence.

"I don't know.." She replyed dully, laying her head on the ground. "I don't know.."

Zelgadiss rubbed tiredly at his eyes. Really, he didn't want to get up, or move for that matter. It was just a nice.. peaceful... He felt something on his leg, interuppting him. His eyes looked to the light blue dog, whom was playing chew toy with his leg.. "Shoo!" He cried in a hushed whisper, looking around to be sure not to wake anyone.

The dog grinned. Yes, he GRINNED at Zelgadiss...

"Damnit!" He swore quietly, shaking his leg, unable to remove the nusenice from his leg. The dog staying faithfully. "Thats it!" Quickly he reached to his hilt, and pulled out his sword. "No more playing around!" He slashed the dog.

The dog fell back, crying out in pain with a whine. And then, before his eyes.. the scar healed!

"Now wait a second.." Zelgadiss said, now in a daze. "What just.." A knock at the door broke him away from the scene at hand. "Y-Yes?"

"Breakfast, please come down to the dining room." Called in Luna through the heavy wood door.

"Sure, I'll wake the others.." He said in a hushed tone, and after her footsteps echoed and disappeared down the hall, he let himself a sigh. Thats when he came back to the reality, when his new friend woke him from his dazed state. He again looked down to find his leg being used as a dog bone. "Damnit.."

"Wake up!" Was called into the corner room of the house. This was, of course, followed by, "Hurry, before I make you."

Gourry fell from his chair, and looked around. "Hu- Wha-?" He asked in a drozey state.

"I said get up, breakfast."

"Food?!" He cried, stummbling to his feet. He looked upon the bed to find Lina, surprisingly, sleeping contently. Some how during the night he had ,managed to pull her out from under her bed. After all, sleeping under your bed wasn't comfortable at all! He reached out, and touched her shoulder. Than, he jerked her back and forth. "Wake up Lina, breakfast!!"

"Will. You. Stop. IT!!" Screamed Lina upon her waking. She now sat up in her bed, holding Gourry by his collar. "Listen here-"

"Hey Gourry.." Called from behind the door, Lina froze and dropped Gourry.

"Huh?"

"Wanna see Lina... naked?" Luna grinned from behind the door. Ah.. this punishment was going to be.. fun to say the least..

"Wh-WHAT?!" Cried out the firey-haired girl, falling backwards off her bed.

"Naked?" Asked Gourry, looking to the door, tilting his head. "But I already-" His mouth was now covered.

"Ohh.. So you've gotten that far? We can discuss this during breakfast Lina-Chan.. Oh my, how will our parents react?" The footsteps again echoed down the hall, and away from the door.

"My life.. is ruined.." Cried Lina, head falling in defeat.

Soon the two had left the room, and were making their way slowly to the kitchen. Upon their arrival, they were greeted with warm, happy smiles..

Or, maybe not..

"Lina-Chan.." Annouced a stern voice. A frown spread across the womans face, she blocked their way fully into the room.

"M-Mama!" Lina said, rather nervously.

"Mama?" Repeated Gourry, looking to both her mother and to Lina. "Ah! I see the resembalance! You both have red hair but your eyes-"

"SHUT UP!" Lina rose her fist to him, when again her mother spoke.

"Lina-Chan."

This had almost the same effect as Luna. Although, she simply stood there. "Y-Yes Mama?"

"Where did this mess come from?" She gestured to the mess in the kitchen behind her. "I distinctly remember cleaning this kitchen just last night! Do you think fairys did this? What about leprucans?"

"N-No Mama.." Lina now whispered. "But I-"

"I want no excuses Lina-Chan!" She placed her hand on her hip. Bad, bad mommy sign!

"But Mama!!" Whined Lina, taking a step forward, trying to prove her innocence.

"Lina-Chan-"

"Excuse me.." Gourry said, disturbing the mother, daughter chat. "But.. I think it was me.. who messed up the kitchen.."

Lina's mother turned her head to Gourry. "Oh? And who are you? Where did you come from?" She covered her mouth. "You didn't... Oh.. Lina-Chan is no longer innocent!! Oh Lina-Chan? Have I done something wrong?!"

Luna smiled, and put in her two cents. "Ya know mom, he did stay in her room.."

From the table, Lina's father reached for the sword that sat in his hilt..

Gourry bent down to the beet red Lina, he began whispering in her ear. "Hey.. Lina.. What are they talking about? Are they still talking about the kitchen?"

Lina's face turned to one of annoyance. She turned around, and smacked him with a balled fist. "Jellyfish for brains.."

All eyes were now on her.

A sweatdrop formed on her head, and by reflex, she had taken and smacked Gourry with it. "Umm.. Anyways.." She coughed nervously. "I-Its nothing like that.. and umm.. hey mama! What'd ya make for breakfast?"

Mother smiled with pride. "Oh, I made hash browns.. and pankcakes! Also.." She was now counting on her fingers. "Ham, and some eggs.."

Lina had used this as an escape into the kitchen, where her and Gourry had taken seats. Finally, Lina's mother had realized her daughter was missing and began filling the table.

From his paper, the Inverse father looked up from his paper, and suspesiously eyed the young man that sat awfully close to his young daughter.. He coughed, and set down his paper. "Have you been well, Lina?"

Jumping in her chair a bit, she simply nodded. Her father was always known as the normal one of the family. He was, in fact, the most normal person she knew!

"What have you been doing while you were away?" He took a sip from his coffee cup. "I see you have recently been busy." He gestured towards her bandages.

Okay, now her dad was being weird.. "You could say that.." She laughed nervously.

Sylphiel watched this, it made her heart ache. This.. this reminded her so much of her father.. She bit her lip, and looked to Lina, who sat so very close to Gourry-Sam- San.. "Lina-San.." She whispered slowly, bending to her ear. This was, of course after the conversation between father, daughter had paused. "I can heal you.. if you'd like.."

"Okay.." Lina whispered back, and then reached for a large peice of ham. "But after breakfast, I'm STARVING!" To prove that fact, the ham was gone before it reached her plate.

Luna looked to her younger sister, and smiled. She seemed to do that a lot, for some odd reason.. "Oh, Lina-Chan.."

Lina froze, dropping her silverware and choking on her food. Gourry patted her back before finally swallowing. "B-B-"

"Yes, big sister." Finished Luna, knowing it proably would have taken her sister a half hour to spit out the damn word.

Lina had never even realized her sister had been at the table.. She was next to Luna.. Her sister was in the same room... Her laugh became louder. "Ah, B-Big sister!" She placed a hand behind her head. "You know, I am really Sor-"

"How would you like to work as a waitress for the day?"

"Eh?" Lina's face turned white. The beganing of her punishment.. Just the beganing..

Lina's mother rose again from the table, and queitly left the room.

"M-Mama?" Asked the youngest Inverse, watching her mother leave the room. She looked to her father, which he only shurgged his shoulders. Soon she did return...

"What are you doing..?" Asked Lina, slowly, nervously..

She giggled, and slapped down the large book. Smiling, she opened it. "Embaressing my children, of course!"

"I think I'd like to be healed now!!" Declared Lina, grabbing hold of Sylphiel's arm. "Lets, go!!"

"Oh.. But Lina-San.." Sylphiel began slowly. "I would like to hear what your mother has to say, if you don't mind.." Secret revenage?

"I'll heal you." Luna called from the other side of the table. She sounded very sincere, too bad all Lina heard was her..

"Oh, look at this picture!" Suddenly cried out mother. "My husband is such a wonderful artist to draw such touching scenes!!" She looks to her husband with a delicate smile.

Coughing nervously, he put his paper back up. Of course, it did help that his wife had made him draw the pictures...

"This was when Lina-Chan first cast her first spell!!" Mother pointed proudly to the picture. The picture displayed a very young Lina, about three or four, standing before a crater. Of course, she was crying.. and the barn was on fire..

"Good thing she got that bad ol' barn." Luna then smiled, and was suddenly next to Lina. "Come one sis, time for your healing."

"Tell me more about Lina-San when she was younger, please Inverse-San!!" Amelia begged, leaning toward the mother.

"I would also like to hear more, Inverse-San!" Cried out Sylphiel, clasping her hands together with utter joy. Actually, she was kinda having fun watching Lina squ- err.. no! She liked to learn more about her friends is all!!

Zelgadiss leaned his head upon his hand, and yawned slightly. This was all well and good.. But when were they going to research his cure? Sigh.

Gourry looked to Lina, then Luna, and then the picture again. "You were really cute as a kid Lina!" He laughed at a cute picture of Lina giving a peace sign. "Whatever hap-" He found a fist in his mouth.

"Idiot.." Lina said, pulling away her fist, and shaking it a bit. She did need to be healed, it hurt like hell! Slowly, a loose bandage slipped off her wrist, revealing her serious injury. "Ow-"

"Come sister dear." Taking her young sister by shoulder, she pulled her out of her chair and toward her room. Of course, this was done with much screaming and such..

"Mama mama!! She's going to kill me!!" Lina reached despretly to her parents, whom did their best to ignore the bickering siblings. Tears formed in her eyes, and fell in floods (literally). Thats when her hero came...

Lina's father was about to stand. He was very upset his children still had not learned how to get along, after how many years?! He opened his mouth, but was cut off..

"Whats wrong Lina?" Asked Gourry innocently, tilting his head. He looked to her wound, finally noticing it. "That looks really bad.. You should get that healed.." His eyes filled with the worry. "She's not trying to hurt you Lina, shes trying to help you!"

Lina froze, he wasn't.. No, of course he wasn't making any sense! This was GOURRY! "You don't know my sister Gourry.." She whispered back to the tall swordsman.

"Really.. Lina-San.. if you can't have your sister do it, let me-" Amelia began, but was quickly cut off.

"No no, shes fine with me, come along dear sister!" Pulling her along, they finally made it to Lina's room. Locking of the door echoed down the barren hallway.

"Hmm.." The father looked down the hall for a moment. Oh well, girls will be girls.. and they acted more like their mother every day...

"Oh dear, she wet herself there, didn't she?" Mother said, placing a hand on her cheek, lightly sighing.

Although, maybe taking after mother wasn't the best.. His eyes looked to the man called Gourry. "Son, my I have a talk with you?"

Quickly the young man swallowed his large peice of ham, which happened to be the last of the food (no wonder Gourry hadn't talked all that much!). Nodding, he rose from his seat and followed the older man out the kitchen door.

Back in Lina's room...

"Lina-Chan, would you please come out from under the bed?"

"..."

"Lina-Chan.."

"..."

The bed was lifted with a simple spell, revealing a 'hiding' Lina, doing her best to cover herself. "I'M SORRY I'M SORRY!!" She cried out, not knowing what else to do.

Sighing, Luna took her sister up, and pulled her from under the bed. She then set the bed back down. "Lina-Chan, its like your.. companian.. said, I'm only healing you, punishment comes later."

Punishment.. Oh yes.. her dreaded punishment.. And she had avoided it so well too!! "Y-Y-Yes sister.." Replyed Lina nervously, after all, upseting Luna didn't sound like a very good plan. Better just to do what she says.

When they were both set on the bed, Luna began removing the bandages that would no longer be needed. Then she brought up her hand, and closed her eyes. A warm laight glowed dimly at first, and then grew, healing everything it touched. Smiling after placing her hand bcak to her side, she began to speak. "You like him, don't you?"

"W-What are you talking about?!"

"Don't give me that." She smiled to her younger sister, who was growing so very fast.. "Lina-Chan, you and I both know who I'm talking about. The man, Gourry was his name?"

"Gourry?!" She flushed, and looked away. "N-No.. were just-"

"You were just leaning on his nice strong shoulder after your encounter with DarkStar. Not to mention holding his arm! Oh, don't tell me you've for-"

"Ehehehehe.." Lina laughed nervously, looking back to her sister innocently. "Oh.. that, I- Wait, how do you know about that?!"

She put up her finger, and smiled-

"Big sister.. please don't say.."

"I have my ways! Now come along sister, lets get you dressed for work today! And then we shall talk more of your love life!"

"I thought there was going to be no punishment!!" Lina cried out, putting up her fist defensivly.

"I said no punishment while I healed you! Come along, we don't want to be late!"

And, of course.. Lina had no choice in the matter. This was just not her day..

Now, for that man to man talk..

A cool breeze flew over the valley. This is, of course, where the grapes where kept. Zelferia's pride and joy... Happy folks mingled in the village, enough to be murrumers to where the men were sitting. Of course, not much talking had occured in this valley..

After the long while of silence, the old man thought it was dramatic enough to start his speech. "Son.."

Gourry turned back around, he had been staring off into the distance while Lina's father had been choosing his words. "Yes sir?" He asked politely. Surprising he had still remembered about that four Inverse promise..

His face continued to stay serious. "I need to speak with you.. about my yongest daugter.. Lina."

"Oh?" He asked, scratching his head.

"May I start by asking, what is your relationship with my daughter?"

He didn't need a moment to think about it. Smiling proudly, he told him. "I am her protecter!"

"Are you now son?" Asked the older man, placing a hand upon his chin. "And how long do plan on keeping this job?"

Gourry looked to the ground, his smile widening. "However long she needs me.. for the rest of my life prehaps.." He looked up to her father, his smile never did die once.

"Hmm.. for the rest of your life, huh?" He nodded, still resting his chin on his hand. His dark red eyes then looked to the swordsmans bright blue ones. "You do understand.. how difficult it is for a father to loose his daughter, right? Especially his little girl.."

Quickly Gourry nodding, sitting up straight. "But you won't loose her, I promise it with my life!" He placed his hand on his chest. "I'm her protecter!"

The father smiled. "Indeed you are, son. But you must know.. the difficutlies of living with-"

Another quick nod came. "Yeah, I know! She hits me all the time!"

He then laughed, hearing such things about his daugter. "I'm afraid thats unchangeable.. She hasn't changed much at all.." His eyes traveled to the ground. "All of the girls are like that.. violent, but you get used to it. In fact, you come to not be able to live without it.. You see, every bit of my wife, I love. Even if she can get in her moods.. It just wouldn't be her without them. Do you understand?"

Gourry stared at the man for a long while. And after moments and moments of just sitting there, he smacked his fist in his palm. "I think so!"

Meanwhile........

Zelgadiss sat quietly outside the tiny little cottage. He nibbled on the chips he had brought with him. Too bad for him, he seemed to be the only one prepared.. If only they would CARE, it seemed they could care less when it came to his cure. Sure.. Amelia did bring up the cure in the first place.. but-

"Is this spot taken?" Asked the little Princess, staring down to the chimeria with her bright blue eyes. She wandered to his side and took her seat. A smile laid upon her face, and she closed her eyes to let the breeze run through her short hair. Just being so close made her heart skip a beat.. And her eyes turned to him, and she had so hoped for a romantic moment.. Although that hope was lost when she had seen his frown. "Zelgadiss?"

His eyes looked to her, and he could only wonder why she seemed so happy after everything. Ha, stupid question, he thought, mentally rolling his eyes. Of course she was happy, shes always happy. She never thinks or reflects back on the things that went wrong... But still, did she wonder also the same.. "Amelia.." He breathed, quickly looking away. He still wasn't good at this couples thing he had some how fallen into. "Remember.. remember that girl.."

Amelia perked up, her eyes glaring back to Zel in a matter that could only be described as jealously. "WHAT girl Zelgadiss-"

"That girl.. she was... doing it for Xelloss.. It doesn't make any sense!"

"Oh.. THAT girl.." She whispered back, wiping the bead of sweat that had formed. "That was kinda weird, I mean, hes never done that before, has he?"

Zelgadiss eyed his princess for a moment. "What do you think I meant?"

"Oh nothing... ehehehe.. "

"But thats besides the point!" His frown deepened. "He's now using people.. actually playing with their minds.. He's never done something like this before. Not to this extreme.."

"He has never actually brought harm to Lina-San either.." Amelia brought her knees up to her chest, she laid her chin upon them. "Its so sudden..."

"I expected this all along." He began in a hateful voice. "He's a mazoku, of course he could have done this, we shoudl have expected this." He sighed, falling back to the house's side. "But we never plan very much.. do we?"

"I'm sorry.." Whispered Amelia, biting her lip. "Your right, we never plan.. We should be looking for your cure right now.. but.. but.." She clentched her fist. "But, Zelgadiss, can't we let Lina-San enjoy hersellf for now? I mean.. If I was her.. I would have missed my town very much.. and all the people.. And prehaps, maybe.. Lina can make up with her sister.." Her eyes watched the grass lean to the winds command. "Maybe.."

The creak of the door was heard, and then a voice. "Spot, do your business and hurry!"

The little blue dog, of course, found Zelgadiss. He happily wagged his tail, and hung his tounge happily from his mouth. Instead of biting Zel's leg, he stood before his face...

"So you gave up?" Asked Zelgadiss, slowly beganing to rub the dogs furry ears.

"Umm.. Zelgadiss.." Whispered Amelia, turning her own shade of blue.

Thats when Zelgadiss began to feel the warm liquid spread on his leg.. making his pant leg stick........

"DAMN DOG!!!!!!!"

The slender, orange-haired woman placed down the next dried dish, and sighed. Her eyes wandered out the tiny window before her. So many hills... and the sky seemed endless... So many wonders to be found and places to be seen.. She jumped as she felt strong arms slowly link their way around her tiny waist. Her eyes traveled back, to her husband who had laid his head upon her shoulder with his eyes contently closed. "Daniel..." She giggled at his touch as she gently laid her head lovingly on his dark purple hair that fell everywhere but where they were supose to. "I love you so much.." She whispered, setting down another dish to play with a strand of his hair. "Did you.. talk to him?"

"The boy?" He laughed a little. "Yes, of course.." He hugged his wife tighter. "He is a good kid Lynn, I can see it.. he loves her very much. He radiates like the rays of the sun.." He kissed her neck.

"The kids.." Lynn whispered warningly to her husband as he reluctantly let go. "But still.. If anything should happen to her.. Did you say what you would do to him? What I would do to him? Did you tell him why-"

"Sh.." He brought his finger to Lynn's mouth, making her hush. "There's no need.. They will find out on their own in L-Sama's own time." His eyes softened. "Everything will be alright.."

Lynn bit her lip nervously, and brought her hands to her heart. "Daniel.." She whimpered, tears slowly forming. "They won't be.. My heart won't allow it to be.. I want you here! I want you to stay-"

"Lynn!" He said harshly. "The walls have ears.. no worries.. no worries.." He brought her back to him, and he set her head upon his shoulder, and lightly rocked her. "Your stronger than this.. you'll get by.." He closed his eyes, as he continued. "I'll catch you in a dream.. and we'll dance on the clouds of the open skies.. I won't ever let you be unhappy Lynn... But this time I haven't a choice.."

She sobbed harder, clentching to his shirt as though she'd never let go. "I-I don't know how I handled myself before the children.." Her shoulders trembled.

"Your doing fine.. And you'll do fine after I'm gone.." He continued in a soothing voice. "This will be the last time I make you sad Lynn-Chan.. I promise.."

A figure stood just outside the kitchen, where the couple continued to speak for several more mintues before leaving for their day at work. Slowly the figure backed away far enough to turn and run.

A half hour later, everything seemed peaceful. The group had been told that they may treat this house as their own home, with the expetion of making a mess. The mother had especially explained this to Gourry, who after had the job of cleaning the kitchen.

Sylphiel peeked into the kitchen, and found whom she was looking for. "Gourry-San.." She whispered upon entering the kitchen and walking across the room. "Let me wash the dishes for you, it'll get done much quicker this way.."

"Huh? Oh, thanks Sylphiel!" He said cheerfully, at the moment he was mopping the floor. "I kinda was in a hurry, I haven't seen Lina since we were eating!"

"Well, remember, she was with her sister.." Sylphiel looked at the tiny pile. Half of the dishes had already been cleaned. "Maybe they're getting along now?" This brought a laugh from Gourry.

"Yeah.. maybe!" He laughed a bit more. "But she was saying something about her sister being evil I remember once.. So maybe shes in trouble! Oh great.. I just let her-"

"Gourry-San.." Sylphiel began to giggle. "It's her sister! Shes not going to bring harm to her only sister.. well, hopefully not! After all, she did heal her.. And I did see Lina-San leave with her.. But thats not what I wanted to discuss-"

He finished the floor, and set the mop to the wall. "Well.. you might be right.. but I want to find her!" He was about to go out the door, when he stopped suddenly. His head slowly turned back to her. "Thanks Sylphiel!" With that, he was gone out the door.

"Your welcome.." She whispered back with a light sigh. Lightly she began to hum, and wash the dishes. Suddenly she stopped, and was complelled to look behind her... There sat, a rather large pile of dirty dishes.... A large sweatdrop formed.

When Gourry had made it out of the house and half way down the street, he had become distracted by the surrounding shops. Especially by something sparkling on his far right... Maybe he should go check it out! And so, he did. Upon reaching the table, he found the reason of why the table was sparkling. There laid a necklace, at the end a golden rose locket.

The short old woman leaned the booth, watching the young man stare. Her white hair was slicked back to a long pony tail, her eyes a bright purple. She slightly smiled. "Young man," She called to get his attention. He looked up with a bit of surprise. "That necklace.. isn't it beautiful?"

"Yeah, its really pretty.." He answered, still in awe. "But it looks expensive.."

The woman smiled, leaning forward. "Maybe..." Her smile seemed to grow. "You are looking at it rather intently, who's neck are you picturing it round? Your girlfriend's prehaps? Surely a handsome young man like you would have a girlfriend!"

Gourry blushed, placing a nervous hand behind his head. "N-No, not exac- really.."

"Did I hear not exactly? Does this mean you hope for a relationship?" She touched the necklace with a delicate finger. "I'm sure if you gave her this necklace... you could express your feelings-"

"Its not that easy! She'll hurt me!" He cried out before covering his big mouth.

"Oh?" She slowly lifted the necklace, and held the rose in her hand. "Why would she do such a thing? You would be being so kind.."

"Well.. Listen, I just came by to get her a 'I'm sorry' gift is all.. And well.." He rubbed the back of his head further. "I'm just not good at shopping for girls.. I don't get them at all! Their so difficult!"

This made the woman giggle. "Is that so?" She took Gourry's large hand, and placed the tiny necklace in it, and closed his hand to a fist. "I think you've found your present.. by the way.. who is this lucky girl that your shopping for?"

"Lina Inverse." He answered plainly, looking at the necklace, wanting it, yet his low encome saying no...

"Lina? Our little Lina-Chan?" She asked, face brightening. "If that is so.. I'll give you a discount!"

"Even with a discount-"

"Just give me what you have young man, it should be enough. And please rely a message to Lina-Chan. Tell her.. 'Auntie Jean' says hello."

"Y-Yes ma'am!" His grin had grown. "Thanks! And don't worry! I will!" He slapped the change down on the little table. The old woman placed the necklace into a black case, and even wrapped it in ribbon. Then, he was off to find her!

Five mintues into the trip, of course, he had forgotten the message...

"I'm hungry." He said to one one but himself. He sighed, he needed to find Lina but- Hey! Theres a restraunt! I'm sure she wouldn't mind if I went to go get some food first! He thought, running into the little diner.

"Welcome to-" The girl froze as she welcomed the young man into the restraunt. "G-Gourry?!" She cried out, covering her short skirt with the tray she held. "What are you-"

"Oh hi Lina!" He waved to her fondly. "Is this where you've been? I've been looking for you! Your a waitress?" He tilted his head, leaning to her. She meekly back away. "I would think you'd eat all your costumers food!" He then laughed.. well, until the tray had found a place in his head that is.

"Get back to work!" Called her sister, walking past her, sending a chill up and down her spine.

"Y-Yes!" She said quickly. She turned to Gourry fericely. "Either order something or get out! Listen, I can't fool around, my sister will KILL me!"

"O-Okay..." Gourry proceeded to a nearby booth, and picked up the menu left by his firey companion. Lightly sighing, he chose his meal quickly and set the menu back on the table, his eyes couriously looking over to Lina as she waited a table nearby. Yep, she was going to blow this place apart... If she wasn't angry now, she would be soon..

Lina walked quickly past the table she just waited. What a stupid job! She thought, narrowing her eyes. I could be traveling or something! I could be killing Xelloss! ARGH! Thats when she felt someones hand slap her behind.. "FIRE-"

Gourry stood from his seat, and pushed Lina behind him. Then he stared at the man whom had laid a hand on Lina. "Listen here pal.."

"Gourry, get out of my way! I'll kill this-"

Luna stepped into this as soon as she realized what was going on. "Sir, I'll have to ask you to leave." She said rather calmly, and then took her younger sister by the arm. "You, finish your friends order and take break! I'll talk to you later.."

Lina froze yet again, and nodded slowly before sulking into the kitchen.

Gourry was still raging calmly behind Luna. His eyes staring at the man, whom just sat there, acting as though he had done nothing wrong.

"Why should I get out?" He replyed, not exactly knowing who Luna was... "I still have to finish my meal that I paid for with my hard earned money! You should be lucky I haven't complained yet, becasue this really isn't the best-"

"I said get out, or I'll have you escorted out." Luna said a little more sternly with little effect on the costumer. Her eyes flashed to Gourry. "Excuse me, Gourry, could you please-"

"I'm on it" He replyed with no questions asked. He took the man by the arms, and then held him there. The man had no choice but to just stand there, he was no match for Gourry's brute strength. The three walked outside together.

As soon as they were out, Luna began.

"Listen, I'll only say it once. Touch my sister again, I won't forgive you."

The man struggled in Gourry's grasp. "Why should I be so scared of a harmless female?!" He cried out angrily.

"Harmless?" She repeated, her face beganing to smile. "I am harmless you say?" She placed a hand on her hip. "I'll give you five mintues, she put up a finger. "either one: run inside right now, and beg and plead for my sister to forgive you. Or their is option two," She put up her next finger. "You can run as fast as you can while I through serveral spells at once at you. When your good and toasty you may then start option one."

The mans face twisted in what we call confusion. "Umm.. yeah.." Gourry let go, the man ran..

Lina had collected herself, she had to of or her sister would have done something to make her.... It was better to just do it herself. When she finished piling Gourry's food onto her oversized tray, she made her way back out to the dining room. But.. where were they? And that man was gone too.. She continued to make her way to the booth, and set down his food. Thats when she heard the many explosions... And the man that had been so very rude to her flying through the door, literally. He fell before her, again, literally, and begged for her forgiveness. Behind him, through the collected dust, the two stepped through the door.

Luna turned to Gourry, and smiled. "You get a free meal, thanks for helping. Enjoy your meal!" And with that, she was back to waiting her tables.

Gourry smiled, glad she said that. He didn't have any money anyways! He took his seat once again, and smiled at Lina as he helped her take his food off his tray. The man that stood at Lina feet was now was scurrying out the door. Good, he was scared. "Are you alright?" He finally asked, beganing to eat.

"Of course I am!" She said strongly, bringing up a fist. "If my sister would have let me, I would have-"

"Lina-Chan! Get in here, get your food, eat, and then WORK!" Called Luna, walking out with a tray of food. She set it beside her as she made it to the table. "Here, hurry up, this is rush hour."

"Okay....." Lina replyed, falling into the booth and eatting like she would never see food again. She was tired, hungry, and just wanted to go home, fall onto her bed, and SLEEP! Yes.. sleep sounded so very good..

"Hey Lina!" Gourry tapped her shoulder, interuppting her lovely thoughts.

"What?" She asked, almost falling asleep in her chicken sandwich. She let out a yawn, her sleep hadn't been very restful, after the events that had happened and all.. I need a break is what I need right now.. She thought, a frown beganing to tug on her lips. But right now she needed to get more info out of Amelia..

"Lina.." He called again, poking her forhead. "I forgot to give you something!"

"What in the nine hells are you talking about?"

He brought out the case, she flushed. He wasn't.. was he?!

"I'm sorry.." He whispered, biting his lip nervously. "I should have protected you better.. If I did, none of this would have happened." He put the little box in her hand. "I didn't know what to get you.. This nice lady helped me.. but I can't remember her name! You can sell it or something.. its nice enough to-"

"Stop rammbling Gourry.." Lina whispered back, opening the box and staring at the rose locket. She was stunned, he had done this.. for her? Her little hands slightly trembled, why? And they little pang returned to heart.. She was starting to wonder if she was suffering from heart problems.. What did he just say? Sell? "What are you talking about?" Lina began, a bright blush making its way across her cheeks. After fumbling with the golden chain for serval seconds, she tried fastening it. "Gourry, could ya help me out here?" Don't get frustarted... She repeated to herself. I WILL NOT break his present! DAMN NECKLACE! GET THE-

"Hold on Lina!" He said, taking the chain from her hands and fastening the clamp to make it stay. His fingers lightly touching the back of her neck to make chills again go up and down her spine.

Lina closed her eyes, trying her best not to squirm. He took his seat again and she opened her eyes. "Gourry, thank you.." Her eyes wandered nervously for a second. "Y-You didn't have to-"

"Yes I did." He said sternly, his eyes staring at hers with intensity. "I didn't protect you well enough before, and I know it doesn't make up for what happened.." His eyes fell to the floor. "But I just wanted to let you-"

"Thats silly! Whatever happened was NOT anyones fault. Things happen, I'll get over it."

"But-"

"No buts." Lina fell back in her booth chair, her eyes watching the kitchen. "I think I might have to go soon.. before my sister..well, you know."

"Nah."

Lina almost fell out of her chair. She meekly looked up to find Luna standing there. A smile on her face, like always. "Bye Lina-Chan, see you later tonight, your leaving tonight, right?"

"Y-Yes.." Lina fell toward the wall, and cornered herself.

"Goodluck, I hope you've learned something from my lesson. You can't get by without EARNING a living, not using me. Get it?"

"Err... O-okay... I understand big sister.. I'm sorry, I'll never do it again! I-"

"Enough, go" She smiled, bringing her sister from her spot and standing her up. "Say goodbye to our parents, gather up. And visit again." She put up a pinky. "Pinky swear it Lina-Chan."

Lina nodded slowly, latching her finger with her sisters. "Its a promise." She looked back to Gourry, who was now standing at her side smiling. "Lets go Gourry, we gotta get the others, adventure waiting!"

He nodded, clutching his sword. His eyes looked back to Luna, who nodded to him. Then she came to his ear.

"Make her happy.." She whispered, grinning. "Thank you for your help, brother."

"Brot-" But before he could ask, she had disappeared into the kitchen.

Before Gourry could do anything more, Lina had dragged him out the door. They were on their way!

Hours later, the group had once again rejoined. They sat around the Inverse dining room table, surprisingly not eatting. Lynn, the mother, was first to speak.

"So.. you leaving.." She whispered, folding her hands and looking to the table. "Your just like me when I was young.. Always rushing for the next adventure.."

Amelia frowned, she hated seeing Lina's mother so very sad. Since they had came to this house, she had some what developed a friendship. "Why did you ever stop adventuring if you loved it so much?" She asked quietly.

"Luna." Answered the mother plainly, and thats when her eyes rose to meet with her youngest daughter. "Lina-Chan.. You must understand.. I.. we, your father and I, are so very proud of you.." Her eyes began to tremble. "Please.. please come back soon, alright? No more leaving for years at a time, okay?"

Lina nodded quickly, her hands tightening in her lap. When was the last time she had seen her mother like this? It was so long ago.. And she knew why she was being so very drastic too.. "Mama, I-"

"And don't forget your father." Daniel said quickly, yet calmly.

She felt her heart fall, and she held in everything she felt. "I-I won't papa." And she couldn't say anymore, or it would have been released without control..

"No worries, alright?" He added, rising from the table. Strain was beganing to be noticeable.. yet he continued to stand proud. "I think I'm going out.. I will see you soon my angel?" He walked to Lina, and bent down to kiss her forehead proudly.

"Papa.." Lina whispered quickly as he was so close.. "Papa, I'll help you, I-"

"Shh.. my daughter, you have better things to worry over then me." He winked, and departed from the room. Lina just staring for a moment before shaking it away.

Lynn simply nodded. That was all it seemed she could do... "Like I said Lina-Chan.. Be careful.." She stood, as did all of them.

Luna smiled, and led her sister and group to the door. "This is where you say bye mom, sorry I ditched ya without saying bye and all-"

"Luna-Chan." The mother said sternly before turning back to her youngest daughter. "Lina-Chan, I want you to write to me from now on.." She hugged her daughter tightly. "I'll miss you every moment I breath.. I love you Lina."

"Mama.. I love you too.." Lina whispered back, her voice almost not heard. As they let go, Lina backed away, turned, and ran.

"Wait for us Lina!!" Called Gourry, almost falling over. "Slow down!"

"Hey!" Giggled the princess, bowing quickly before Luna and Lina's mother, she too ran after her.

Zelgadiss just walked, seeing that the dog wouldn't let go.. And when he was called, and was finally released from his leg, he too ran like bloody hell.

Sylphiel looked worriedly to the mother as she too bowed. "Thank you for having us. I'm sorry." She then left... Too much was on her mind now..

Lina's mother departed into the house. Her day went on, as usual.. But now she knew her daughter would be alright..

Luna continued to stare, and she shook her head. "Lina-Chan, Lina-Chan, I at least better be a brides maid.."

Authors Note: AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!! THAT WAS THE LONGEST CHAPTER YET! I think I'm going to cry.. I ended it quickly and painlessly... *Big sigh* And I will try to prevent the next from meeting as many noteads.. o.o** Umm.. if your still reading this ARIGATOU!! XD It means a lot to me!! I gotta go to bed.. school, school!!

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