So sorry for the late update, I meant to update Friday (I failed), then Saturaday (fell asleep), so I'm updating before I eat lunch and get ready for church school. So today, you get to experience a bit of Tokyo without taking a step. :)

I think I failed at the fluffiness again, and this chapter builds up what will happen soon - like, I don't know, an appearance of an OC? >.<

AKLSHALSHHGKS. Problem about being a writer: you have another amazing idea for a fic and can't leave it alone. WHY TORTURE ME BRAIN?! I have about dozens of new ideas, but this one that I dub 'A True You...' is very good because I was inspired by a movie. I want to continue writing it so bad (I do during breaks in class), it might end up as a multi-chaptered fic.

WARNING: I have major tests, test re-takes, projects presentations, and semester exams this upcoming week, next week, and next next week. I will be very busy studying and stressing. Then after that will be my winter break. YES! So updates will be at random. UTCOU, NLUTCOU will be on short hiatus and be re-edited until my Winter Break starts.

Who loved the SHINee + EXO stage at MAMA awards? IT WAS JJANG! I LOVE OT17! There should've been more collabs with them together.

Remind me when more birthdays come up, I know there's Onew and Minho...

Guys, pretty please, as my early Christmas wish from ya'll, either comment more or pray I get the new laptop I want. I literally think this laptop will die during Winter Break. Then that will be history and you won't see me at all.

Thank you for reading, subscribing, voting, and commenting. I love you guys. *sniffles* T^T

Red is Mandarin and green is Japanese.

Read on, my lovelies. <3

(Third Person POV)

Okay, admittedly the younger guardians were a bit excited and enthralled when they discovered their hotel rooms, decorated in modern designs and arranged in comfort. Taemin, Kai, Sehun, and Baekhyun were coincidentally assigned in one room while Key, Minho, and Tao were in another despite each suite was equipped with four beds because they had odd number of males in their year. Lucky them.

"Wah~!" Sehun marveled in amazement when he swept aside the golden curtains of the windows. "The view is spectacular~!"

Baekhyun hopped on his bed and smiled in satisfactory. "Ah, the bed is soft and thick. Perfect." He sighed contentedly. "I love Japan."

Taemin was diligently unpacking a few of his belongings or else Key would nag at him to be more prepared and organized. Adjacent to his bed, Kai was lounging lazily on his, occupied with his phone, bags untouched. Taemin rolled his eyes at his best friend, knowing he had no care in the world when it came to trips. Of course. To the teleporter, he came and go as he pleased. But Taemin liked to tease Kai he couldn't teleport in random places blindly because he might wind up in an inappropriate place like the girls' washroom.

There was a knock on the door and Taemin's diva-like, motherly figure of a hyung barged (strutted) in without permission, Minho and Tao trailing behind him. The panda had a huge, appreciative grin.

Tao bounced over to his friends cheerfully. "Guys, isn't this place AWESOME?!"

"Ne!" enthused the maknae.

"Daebak~!" sang Baekhyun merrily.

Kai only humphed, a smirk on the edge of his thick lips.

With a sigh, Minho plopped into a plush armchair. "I know this is our summer vacation...but we have duty first."

Key whipped out his phone to speed dial someone. The person picked up the call immediately, put on speakerphone. They all converged around Key.

"Guys?" Onew sought out.

"Annyeong, hyung," Taemin greeted, sitting on the edge of his bed.

"Where's Alaina?" was Onew's hasty query.

"She's roomed with her friends," informed Taemin. "Girls are situated on the floors above us."

"Ah," uttered Onew in understanding. "So what's the news report? Anything happen?"

"Nothing out of the ordinary," assured Minho, leaning forward in his seat. "The last time we saw Miryo and Jea was when we the exit the buses, ushering everyone inside the hotel."

"Hmm, that's not a good thing that you lost sight of them," murmured Onew, perplexed. "How about I send a few people over to start patrols?"

"Good idea," agreed Key.

"Ooh! Send Yeollie over!" Baekhyun put in eagerly. "I haven't seen him since this morning!"

Sehun clapped his hands hyperactively. "And Luhan-hyung!"

"Kris," was the only word Tao needed to express.

Minho sighed exasperatedly and rubbed his forehead. "Guys...it's not time to play around."

Tao and Sehun jutted out their lips while Baekhyun shot Minho a sour look.  

The blankets rustled as Kai sat up sluggishly. He carded his long fingers through his mussed hair, staring at his companions uninterestedly.

"I'm going to see Alaina," he announced plaintively, speaking up the first time since they settled in.

Taemin watched him cross the room disapprovingly. "Yah, who says you can go?"

"No one," retorted Kai, hand on the doorknob. "That's why I can." He quickly deserted the room, the door closing with a clink!

"Aish, that babo," mumbled Taemin with a frown. "At least he didn't teleport."

"Let him go," inserted Onew. "It's fine since we should be with Alaina at any crucial time. Chanyeol, Luhan, and Kris will be at your hotel in ten minutes. They'll appear on your veranda."

"Araso, we'll contact you later before we leave for the tour," stated Key. "Bye, hyung."

"Bye." Onew hung up. Key pocketed his phone.

"So...where do you think we'll be visiting first in the lovely country of Japan?"

...

(Alaina's POV)

Taking only one step out of my hotel room, I half expected his appearance, leaning coolly against the wall, bored and quiet. Normally, I would've jumped out of my skin, but I sensed his presence beforehand, the reason why I was heading out.

"Kai," I hissed as I quickly shut the door without raising attention to my friends inside. "You know we shouldn't be seen alone together."

Kai straightened up, hands stuffed in the pockets of his designer jeans. His playful grin was rebellious as always.

That stupid, cocky soulmate of mine surprised me with a big, showy kiss on the cheek and leaned away.

"I wouldn't do that if people were watching us," he reminded me and then shrugged carelessly. "Besides, no one stopped me from coming to see you. When I left, they were talking to Onew-hyung. Hyung-deul are starting patrol soon."

I was comforted by the news. "Oh, that's good," I said, clutching at my chest, over my distressful heart.

Kai invaded my comfort zone, hand touching my wrist, counting my heartrate. It was growing steadier. His warmth made me want to shiver even though I was wearing long sleeves. "Do you sense the demons nearby?" he asked lowly, calculating.

I concentrated for a minute, closing my eyes briefly and ignoring my surroundings. I sighed. "Aniyo, not within the building. They must've left while all of us students were settling in."

Kai looked hindered, lips set. "How about we head downstairs for brunch and you can tell me about Japan?" he decided, wanting to change the subject.

Turning my wrist over, I fully intertwined my fingers through his. "Sure," I agreed, acknowledging his attempt to distract me.

And that was the first time Kai ever escorted me somewhere like a gentlemen.

...

The hotel's restaurant was amazing, like ordering at a high-standard food court. Its decor was sophisticated yet modern and colorful. The various food selections here made my stomach twist. It wasn't like I was revolted, more like I was nostalgic. I hadn't eaten Japanese food in such a long time. My stomach growled and I blushed when Kai suppressed a laugh.

My willpower crumbled, and I found myself craving okonomiyaki. Since Kai wanted my recommendation, I bought the delicious pan fried dish for both of us and we sat at the long counter-like table, waiting for the rest of our crew to arrive.

"Ooh! What in the delicious-looking Asian food is that?" demanded Sehun, suddenly popping out of nowhere, palms braced on the tabletop.

Kai smirked. "Get your own, maknae."

Sehun pouted, whining as Key, Minho, Taemin, Baekhyun, and Tao also appeared. I noticed Baekhyun and Tao were a bit happier with flushed faces and assumed they met up with their soulmates prior. (Maybe sneaking in a kiss or two.) Taemin kissed my forehead in greeting, sitting on my other side. Minho and Key patted my head.

Goodnaturedly, I stood up to order more okonomiyaki as my guardians seated themselves and blabbered about random topics. They were ravenous as they devoured the yummy dish. I wiped off the sauce on Sehun's chin and he blushed embarrassingly, but secretly eyeballed my unamused soulmates. Kai kicked the maknae's leg under the table.

"Mmm," hummed Baekhyun appreciatively, shoving more okonomiyaki into his mouth. "I gotta order some for Yeollie for later."

"He's on patrol, right?" I wanted to confirm, voice low.

Baekhyun nodded. "I think he and Kris-hyung are staking out on the roof and Luhan-hyung at the back entrances."

"Alaina thinks the she-demons left when we found our rooms," Kai told them pensively and they all frowned.

"They'll show up again," asserted Minho dryly. "Like they always do."

I huffed to myself at the comment. Stupid, bewitching, magician-like demons.

Luckily, we still had time to chill, distracting ourselves by eating, joking, or teasing each other. Jae dropped by our table and asked my opinion on what type of foods to eat. Then later, Kyungmi suggested I should tell them some interesting sites here in Tokyo. I glanced at my guardians undecidedly, and they all smiled promptly, shooing me away. So I joined Jae, Eunmi, and Kyungmi at their circle of tables, entertaining the girls that didn't loathe me, many of which are the student council members in my gym class.

I nearly forgotten what Jea's honey-coated voice sounded like until I heard it chime across the expanse of the restaurant. Goosebumps formed a path along my arms.

"Everyone! Listen up!" she said in a raised voice. "Please be ready to board the buses for the tour in fifteen minutes! You are not allowed to stay behind! Attendance is mandatory!" She clapped her hands. "Chop! Chop!"

Okay, how in the world did she magically appear? Out of thin air? A hidden trap door? I didn't even sense her!

As my human friends disposed of their trash, I hurried over to my guardians. Taemin reached out to tug me close to his side. The seven males glared at Jea who was stationed at the restaurant's doors, smiling and responding to the students who vied for her attention.

I hated how she could snap her dark, teasing gaze over to us in a millisecond then away like nothing happened. Her infectious smile enticed those with no fortified backbone.

When Jea finally deserted the area, my guardians breathed.

"Let's go get our stuff and met up in the lobby," proposed Key.

Baekhyun nodded, holding up the bag of take-out boxes. "I gotta take these to hyung-deul."

"I'll walk you to your room," Taemin told me, tightening his hold around my waist. I didn't object.

Taemin waited patiently by the door as I gathered my things. I felt that a small travel bag was unnecessary since I knew my way around Tokyo. So everything was in my pockets - my phone, foldable wallet, subway pass (just in case), and keychain. My necklace was at its designated spot, resting under my collarbone. I'd probably bake in my long-sleeves and jeans, especially in the summer, but I was cautious. At least the material was thin enough.

Taemin ushered me back downstairs in the lobby where my school crowd littered about. It was easy to spot Key and the others. Amidst the lobby under the bright lights, clustered alone, they were poised and alluring as actors, onlookers gawking at their beauty. I surveyed them individually, my curiosity peaking. Key was the most eye-catching with his trendy style that would be a big hit here. Tao was a close second to the diva, mysterious but lovable. Then Baekhyun seemed innocent and casual but his eye-smile topped everything well. Minho was practical and refined wearing designer brands. Then the youngest two: Kai and Sehun were models for famous store brand clothes, but their natural handsomeness was what captured people's attentions.

...Were they really my friends? More than just that, my devoted protectors? I felt very underdressed although I wore these clothes around them regularly. Suddenly I felt meek and timid, wanting to be invisible again.

I didn't dare evaluate Taemin's attire, or else I would be tongue-tied all day.

Taemin peered oddly at me, aware of my abrupt change in behavior. I avoided looking at everyone directly.

"Everyone get into the buses!" ordered the head teacher and the excited throng of students shove at each other for the best seats. Unfortunately, our supervisor was Jea and another oblivious teacher. Miryo was supervising another bus. I snagged a window seat near the back, my guardians surrounding me. Taemin stuck with me, still wondering why I was demure. Minho and Key had their piercing sights set on Jea's delicate form up front behind the bus driver. (Which was probably a bad idea because if her beauty distracted the driver, we may all end up having broken bones as souvenirs.)

"Wow, look at all those skyscrapers!" exclaimed Tao.

"I see parks!" Sehun gave a little bounce.

"Where are we going first?" asked Baekhyun, peering past the seat to look at me.

I blinked, recalling the schedule. "I think...we're going to Koishikawa Korakuen first. It's a very old, pretty garden with various types of blossoming trees. After that would be the Imperial Palace. Then Tokyo Tower. We'll have dinner nearby and then head back."

Baekhyun grinned. "I like the plan. Day one sounds jjang."

I smiled back bleakly.

Gazing vacantly out the window of the passing scenery, I lost myself in my thoughts. I was hardly aware of the sounds and movements around me, as if I was practicing with Luhan again, to be subconscious. The presences around me...Taemin's heartbeat was very rhythmic...that one fence resembled the one back at the orphanage...

I snapped out of my daze when Taemin put his palm on my cheek, puzzled. "Yeobo?" he implored tentatively.

My lips parted, befuddled. "Ah, gomen, did I zone out? What time is it?"

I didn't register I was speaking in Japanese, but Taemin responded in the same tongue, borderline of fluent.

"Just about five minutes passed. You sure didn't respond to me when I called out your name," he said, concerned. "Doua no?" He considered his words and rephrased it. "Something going on in your head? You were acting weird earlier."

I thought back and my cheeks warmed in mild embarrassment. "I-I was just thinking...how I dressed inadequately," I mumbled, voice dropping lower with each word. Also how an eyesore I am versus the only people who know the true me.

"Eh?"

"Betsuni," I dismissed elusively.

Taemin narrowed his eyes at me. "Liar. Seriously? I had never seen you feel uncomfortable in they way you dress."

I tugged at my sleeves nervously. "Because I never considered what we all looked like together," I whispered. "No wonder people think I am...undeserving."

"Oi, you deserve me," he corrected, "and I don't deserve you in a million years." He shot a glare at Kai's direction who was napping, head leaning on Sehun's shoulder. "Neither does that baka. He doesn't deserve you in a lifetime."

I choked on a laugh. "Ai, that's a little overboard, and very biased."

Taemin's eyes were bright again, and I felt those luminous orbs stabbed black holes into me. I missed that look.

"I don't think so." Taemin sighed, my cheek with his thumb. "Alaina, we've been over this countless times. Just drop it, because I will never ever abandon or criticize you." When he saw my skeptical look, he corrected himself, "Except for that one time with Jongin. You have to admit, it was a shocker. I just needed time to readjust." He smiled to win me over. It worked. "No one regrets ever meeting, liking, saving, or accepting you. You're the light and hope of our entire world."

I nudged him playfully, red across the face. Darn having pale skin. "Hai, hai, you smooth talker. You've been hanging around with Jongin too much. That, or Onew-nii-chan taught you some tricks."

Taemin chuckled and pecked the spot above my brow. "Something like that."

We hardly cared or noticed Jea observing us silently from the front, intrigued by our tender moment. She glanced down at her pedicured hands thoughtfully.

...

After the clear up, Taemin and I had no problems between us and tried to relax the best we could with a demon present. The bus ride actually arrived at Koishikawa Korakuen five minutes early because of the light traffic. Even I was impressed.

"Wah~!" sang Sehun as he ran forward, arms out wide, embracing the air around him. I giggled at his cute, carefree actions. Key scrupulously snapped pictures to commemorate every moment. Sehun twisted around and held up a peace out sign above his forehead. "Mehrong~!"

"Gosh, I love these pictures," swooned Key, admiring his so-called masterpieces. I think the camera did all the work.

"Omo, these petals are so pretty," gasped Baekhyun in awe, a lush, pink cherry blossom petal landing in his palm. Many scattered into the ponds, making ripples upon the mirror-like surface.

I took the petal from him and rubbed the velvetiness between my fingers. "Sakura trees," I said out loud. I inclined my head to the other side of the park. "Ume trees and irises."

Kai chuckled and poked the tip of my nose. "Araso, my intelligent Japanese speaker, translate."

I returned the smile, albeit cheekily. "Cherry blossom trees. Plum trees. And irises."

I milled around the park, praising the green grass and fresh air. All with a content smile to my face. Nothing could ruin this. Nothing.

I bent down to pluck a random flower from the grass. I smiled, imaging what it was like many years ago.

"Wah~! Mite, Alaina! Butterflies!"

"Very pretty."

"Stay here, I'll catch one for you."

"Ah, Yuki-"

Moments later, Yuki had handed me a jar with the cap poked with tiny holes. A butterfly had been trapped inside, resting on a flower he also stored in there. I had gratefully accepted the jar, admired the marvelous creature, and then set it free minutes later.

"Why did you let it go?"

"Because it shouldn't live its life in a jar. Besides, I have this." I had held up the half-blooming flower and smiled. "You don't need to do crazy things to impress me. As long as it's meaningful, I'll cherish it."

Definitely. I'll always cherish it.  

Click. Flash. Click. Flash. That was the sound of Key never letting go of his camera. He loved taking pictures of me.

"Yah, Princess~!" Sehun called out merrily. I turned around just in time to see him blow out a puff of air. The wind stirred and whoosh! He scattered the sakura petals all around me. I gaped dumbfoundedly at the flurry of beautiful art flying in all different directions. Even the other park lovers stopped to gawk.

Taemin and Kai were speechless at the mystical beauty in front of them. That was me. Laughing joyously, cheeks flushed, hands outstretched to catch the whirlwind of pink petals. A happy gleam in my brown eyes. The free-spirited aura drowning out any worry or sadness in a mile radius.

This is why I'm in love.

Tao grinned. "Flowers looks good on you, Peacemaker."

I blew some sakura petals at him and he chased after me, running across the bridge.

Key was satisfied as he collected his bounty of pictures. He patted Sehun's shoulder accomplishedly. "Komawo, little one. Good deeds equals tasty candy."

Sehun grinned and pranced off. Minho laughed at the devious maknae.

An hour later, we were all caroled back to the buses. I wistfully watched the garden grow small in the distance as we headed to a different direction.

"I feel like I'm in an old movie," joked Minho as he appraised the architectural design of the Imperial Palace. "Imagine samurais and ninjas popping out of nowhere."

"I'll kick their-" Kai clamped his lips together when he saw my pointed look. "...butts."

I rolled my eyes, shielding my eyes from the glaring sun. I shuffled from foot to foot, having been here more than once in my lifetime. Field trips here were common occurrences. Everything was familiar and aged but very majestic. Jae, Eunmi, and Kyungmi were listening to the tour guide babble and spout facts about the history of the palace and the people behind it. Blah blah blah.

Jae strode over to me and elbowed my side. "Yah, what's with the bored look while I'm over there not understanding Japanese gibberish?"

I chuckled once and looked up at her. "You just have to pay attention. But I'll explain it to you, unni."

As I clarified things to Jae, I was glad I wasn't near Sehun, Kai, and Tao when they decided to go all ninja and attack each other. Actually, Tao was the ninja with his wushu skills, beating up Kai and Sehun with mock punches and kicks. Older adults chided at them and they awkwardly bowed in apology. Taemin snickered at them.

The next trip was a personal favorite of mine. When living here, I would see its sky-touching structure everyday. I had only been inside the landmark about twice in my life.

The red and white iron equaled the Tokyo Tower.

"I wonder if Kris-hyung would do a back-flip from very top," speculated Sehun, hand shading his eyes as he craned his neck up, marveling.

Tao scoffed. "It'd be a piece of cake for him."

Baekhyun elbowed the panda. "So biased."

Many of my fellow classmates lined up to take the elevators in cramped groups, but my guardians had a different plan in mind.

Taemin tapped my shoulder, leaning in to whisper, "Yeobo, where's the stairway?"

I blinked unknowingly. "Eh?" I pointed to the other side. "Over there. Why?"

Taemin smiled winningly. "Taking a shortcut, that's all."

"But that's the longer rout- oh!" I felt stupid at my belated realization. "But wouldn't the cameras-"

Kai was suddenly tugging me towards the door that led to the stairway, the others already slipping inside.

"Easy or super easy?" Kai asked me simply.

"Uh...super easy?"

Kai grinned. "You're definitely my soulmate."

I gasped as Kai tucked me into his chest and the dim, enclosed surroundings of the stairway was cut off from view by the swirl of black smoke. I didn't miss how Key and the others had deftly jumped from level to level, balancing themselves on the railings. I heard Sehun's and Tao's laughs echoing in the empty, narrow space.

Then my feet landed on firm ground. My jaw dropped when I saw we were at the highest floor in the tower. The summit room, per se. Taemin and the others accordingly appeared from the stairway, grinning and unrepentant. Minho and Taemin had tied who arrived fastest.

Mechanically, I unlatched myself from Kai, dazed as I inched closer to the windows.

The view of my home was breathtaking.

Taemin hopped to my side, hand over mine on the railing. "What do you think?" he asked me.

I smiled at the reverse positions. "Shouldn't I be asking you that?"

His eyes were only on me, the rich, radiant light caressing my cheeks, the fascinated gleam in my brown orbs, the pinkness of my lips even more luscious. In the corner of his vision, conspicuous to his eyes, he saw the black tattoo rings branded on my ring and middle finger.

He leaned forward to kiss the corner of my mouth. My eyes rounded at the action.

"I love it," he whispered in my ear. My neck warmed.

"Yah, break it up you two!" Key reprimanded, waging a finger. "No PDA while I'm around!" Baekhyun, Sehun, and Tao were making kissy faces and whistling. Minho pretended he didn't know the goofs.

Kai pulled me away from Taemin. "Are you really trying to make me jealous, jagiya?" he teased, growling. "Don't make me kiss you in public."

I narrowed my eyes at him. "You wouldn't."

"I would," he challenged, and I could tell he was serious under the playful tone. He grinned mischievously. "Not many of our classmates are around," he pointed out.

I pretended to be thoughtful. "But my umma and oppa are. Not to mention my other soulmate."

"I can kidnap you, you do know that, right?" he threatened more lowly, not backing down.

I belittled him with a smile. "Try me."

Predicting beforehand, I ducked from his grasp, missing by millimeters, and ran away. He chased after me, not caring about the few adults that were present. But eventually they exited the room with the fantastic view. All this just for us to bask in.

Having my fun circling and hiding behind Minho and Tao, I finally let Kai capture me in his arms and plant a big kiss on my lips. I was giggling madly. Blissful.

Key touched his cheek. "Aww, alright. I admit that was cute."

We wasted the day by exploring the tower and buying trinkets for souvenirs. Then Minho checked his watch. "Ah, I think we should head downstairs. We're suppose to gather up at a nearby restaurant."

I looked out the spacious view before me and felt something in me flutter. Pure happiness. The sun was languidly dipping in the distance, the sky becoming more and more orange with each passing hour. I laced my fingers through Kai's and nodded. "Kaja."

This time, Kai teleported all eight of us to the bottom most entrance of the stairway. We exited out, acting like nothing abnormal happened.

Eunmi glided over to me curiously. "Yah, where were you? I couldn't find you."

I shrugged noncommittally. "Just upstairs. Sightseeing. Shopping. Taking pictures. The usual."

Eunmi accepted that and smiled. "I heard the restaurant we're eating at is really good."

What Eunmi said was true. The school had reservations at a restaurant only a five minute walk away. My guardians and school friends sat near each other at large tables. Practically everyone was famished and eagerly waited for the food to arrive. Of course, I had ordered almost everything because of my knowledge in dishes.

While my friends gobbled down the array of rice, curry, and pickled vegetables, I poked at my food, thinking deeply.

I hadn't eaten Ayano's homecooked food in so long. Neither have I passed by my old schools. I pursed my lips. How nostalgic.

"Yah, eat, missy," Key chided from across from me.

I smiled sheepishly. "Hai, okaa-sama."

Key was surprised at first, then bursted out laughing. Taemin joined in, understanding the humor.

A little past seven, our rented buses picked us up to return us back to the hotel. Oddly enough, Jea and Miryo were very affable and polite, unlike their irritable selves. A facade? An act? A day gone by and they pretty much avoided us. I assumed their mysteriousness was hiding a secret plot they planned to hatch. I kept on my toes, senses heightened.

We arrived at the hotel around eight because of the traffic. My ankles were aching and the clinging scent of flowers and outdoors was soaked into my clothes and skin. I knew I sweated from being in non-summer wear under the hot sun. I was in dire need of a hot shower.

Taemin and Minho dropped me off to my room, assuring me that them and the others would be close by. I didn't like how the boys would be patrolling through the night, but they stated it was necessary.
       
Since I was the first in the room, I quickly started the shower and undressed.

Showering was a very soothing and relaxing way to ease tension and worry, but also excitement and bubbliness. I was one with my thoughts, reflecting my wonderful day back home.

I kept saying that - home. I scolded myself. No, I was merely in my homeland. Home equaled the orphanage. Home equaled SHINee's house. Home equaled the sanctuary that were my soulmates' arms.

I smacked the side of my fist against the shower's wet, tiled wall, antagonism b up inside of me. But it subsided quickly, draining away with the water.

"Just six more days," I whispered, my vision blurred my the steamy water. It mingled with my frustrated tears, erasing away. "I have to stay away from them for six more days - to protect them." My broken voice faltered. "When I'm only a bus ride away..."

My sadness diminished as I remembered I shouldn't linger in the shower any longer. I shut off the water and got out, toweling myself off. I changed into my pajamas - sweatpants and a worn tee.

There was a loud knock on the bathroom door when I finished drying my hair. "Yah, Alaina! You done yet?" called out Kyungmi. "You've been in there for thirty minutes already!"

I opened the door, smiling sheepishly as I combed my hair. "Ah, mianhae. You can go in now." I switched places with Kyungmi. Eunmi was laying on her bed, thin legs bent upward, reading a book. Jae was sitting at the obsidian table near the window, skimming through some papers and books.

I grabbed a water bottle and drank it as I quietly observed my room's view. Nothing that could rival Tokyo Tower's view, but it was still pleasant and mystifying.

I glanced up when I heard my phone vibrating on my pillow. I jumped on my bed and snatched up the little device, reading the text message I've received.

Still in your room? Taemin asked me.

Yes. Duh. :P

Sorry for being cautious. :P

Don't copy my faces. And by cautious, you mean paranoid. -_-'

I have reasons, he defended. You should know that very well.

I didn't mean too... >.>

I know, he sent, and I could imagine him softening. Onew-hyung sent Jonghyun-hyung, Suho-hyung, and Xiumin-hyung to trade places with the others. I know Chanyeol and Kris-hyung are being lovey-dovey with their soulmates. The separation anxiety is still affecting them. Sehun's animatedly telling Luhan-hyung about the trip. Then they'll head back to the hotel to rest. Oh, Key-umma and Jjong-appa are having a romantic time sitting on the roof. I suspect Key-umma will be in a good mood when he returns.

I pursed my lips. Don't the others ever get to have fun or explore? They shouldn't miss a good opportunity. :[

On their own time, Taemin assured me. Right now our priority is you. We can always come back to Tokyo when things die down.

Any signs of Miryo or Jea?

Key-umma last sensed them with the others teachers, surely for appearances sake. But then Luhan-hyung reported they disappeared again.

Do you think they might be meeting up with other demons...like consorts? :(

Possibly... By the pause in the messages, I assumed Taemin was taking the time to deliberate. I'll tell Onew-hyung that. Maybe he might plan to scout around.

I stifled a yawn and blearily continued to text Taemin. I don't like it when we separate - any of us. Just stay close for now.

Whatever you say, yeobo. Aren't you sleepy yet? It's past nine and we had a long day.

I'm yawning now. >.< I'll go to bed early. Night, love. <3

Night, yeobo. <3

"Yah, I see that love-stricken face," whispered Jae teasingly from where she sat. "Texting Taemin I see." I pinked and ducked under the covers of my bed.

"Night, guys!" I shut my eyes and hoped for pleasant dreams.
 

...
 

I should've known I would be restless that night, because around midnight when my roommates retired to bed, I woke up after spending the past few minutes tossing and turning. It wasn't like the bed was uncomfortable and neither was I wide awake, but...my mind was too sharp to fall asleep. Thoughts were running in my head uncontrollably. Was my powers over memories acting up?

I sighed and sat up. The hotel room was dark, barely illuminated by the moonlight peeking through the drawn white drapes. The soft snores of my friends told me they were deeply slumbering.

"I need fresh air," I mumbled and got out of bed, lightly crossing over to far right of the room to the veranda doors. I quietly pried the door open and slipped out.

"Ah~" I breathed contentedly, the cool night air easing my stress. It wasn't too hot or too cold out, but there was a breeze and nighttime activity going on. Down below, vehicles honked and roved by. Closing my eyes, I could sense stray papers drifting aimlessly in the breeze. The humming slumber of bugs and cooing rest of birds. All plant life breathed softly.

I've never noticed the ES here, I thought distractedly. It's so...captivating.

"Shouldn't you be in bed?"

I gasped, startled by the sudden voice, but it came out as a breathless squeak.

"Mianhae!" Warm, muscular arms cradled me to his chest, comforting me.

"Jongin," I uttered, "what are you doing on my veranda?"

Still holding me, Kai shrugged noncommittally. "Nothing much, chilling."

"Stalking me?"

The corner of his lips curved upward. "Something like that."

"Did you even go to sleep?"

"Aniyo, some of us are still awake," he confided. "Aside from the patrol group, me, Luhan-hyung, and Kris-hyung are still up. Sehunnie wanted Luhan-hyung to stay until he fell asleep - he conked out not long ago. Chanyeol-hyung fell asleep in Baekhyun's bed. Kris-hyung is watching over his beloved panda, too anxious to leave." Kai rolled his eyes. "From what I heard from Chanyeol-hyung, Kris-hyung wouldn't stop fretting about Tao during the trip. He's going to build up a if he keeps worrying."

"It's the separation anxiety," I whispered. "It still affects them." I poked his chest with a finger. "Which explains exactly why you're here. But where's Taemin?"

"He might've fallen asleep clutching his phone to his chest," disclosed Kai thoughtfully. He quirked a brow at me.

"I was texting him," I affirmed. "He just told me about what's going on."

"Lucky him," muttered Kai sourly and shook his head. "Why not text me next time? Especially when you wake up during the middle of night."

"I have no need when you stalk me," I countered and contemplated. "I didn't even know why I couldn't sleep. It was like..."

"Like what?" he prompted me.

"Like..." I glanced over the balcony's side. "...I was suppose to realize what I missed out. And speak to you, of course."

"Fate," remarked Kai. "Fate's always playing around with you."

I chuckled sweetly and rested my head against his chest, listening to his steady heartbeat, but then it thudded irregularly, similar to mine when I was extremely happy.

Kai nuzzled the top of my head, rocking me back and forth. "Alaina?"

"Hm?"

"When the trip started, you seemed very hesitant. But after all that, you became really happy. Why?"

I was surprised Kai noticed, but otherwise, I tried to reply without confusing him, "I was...just troubled. In the beginning, I thought it'd be hard walking these streets again. I felt mad like the world was teasing me. But you guys cheered me up." I smiled briefly then it vanished. "During the time in the lobby, I might've been upset being compared to all of you when I saw practically everyone ogling at you guys."

I heard Kai's warm laugh vibrate through his chest. "That happens all the time. Don't mind it."

"I know," I said softly. I tried to organize my thoughts. "You know...I've never really been inside much of the locations we're visiting to. Maybe as a treat once and a while, but never inside."

Kai looked down at me, dark eyes probing. "Explain."

"At Tokyo Tower, I never went to the very top," I confessed. "I haven't been to Koishikawa Korakuen since I was a little kid. The Imperial Palace was mandatory for most schools, but..." I didn't know how to express my point of view. "I'm a wanderer, Jongin. I know every niche and crevice. But I never wasted money to have fun somewhere. I've never shopped at Harajuku before, or watched an event at Yoyogi Park. I haven't wandered that far..."

"The orphanage?" he guessed.

I nodded numbly. "I saved money for school or the kids. I remember how Ayano was always upset when I came back late without telling her where I ran off to." My eyes dimmed at the memories. My so-called adventures. "I couldn't help it, I'd finally entered junior high. I just wanted to taste freedom..."

Kai rubbed his thumb on my cheek, seeing my discontent. "Yah," he said gently, "if you ever want to taste freedom, you have your free ride right here. Plus, with me, you'll never be alone."

I smiled in response, glad for his understanding. "Komawo."

My beloved soulmate only hugged me tighter, pecking my forehead. Being encaged in his arms really was the home I longed for. My solace. We stayed cozy like that for a few more minutes, enjoying the peaceful silence, until I pulled back.

"I better head to bed again," I told him in a small voice, stepping back. What time was it? "I'm tired."

Kai nodded. "I bet you are."

"Night, Jongin. You go to bed, too."

"Ne. Oh, and one more thing."

"What 'one more thing'- mrph!" A hand yanked on my wrist and lips crashed onto mine. A firm, warm hand fixated at the back of my neck and an arm wrapping around my waist to press me into a muscular build. I was breathless by the kiss, understanding in the back of my mind that he was trying to reassure himself, finding his comfort. I was overwhelmed by the passion and heat, eventually yielding, body relaxing and leaning into him. My arms involuntarily encircled his neck, our lips melding together like perfect puzzle pieces.

He pulled away just slightly, sensing how I needed to breath (because I was too distracted to remember how to) and bonked his forehead on mine, sighing in worn content.

"I needed that," he sighed. When he blinked, his long lashes swept across my cheeks. "Jal ja, dream about me."

I was blushing and smiling like crazy when I ducked back inside the room, shutting the door. "Oh, Kim Jongin, stop driving me insane," I muttered to myself. Tip-toeing so I wouldn't disturb my dreaming roommates, I crossed over to my bed and I eased myself onto it, closing my droopy eyes.
 

...

(Third Person POV)

Sensing she had finally fallen asleep, Kai decided he could return to his room without worry, teleporting there.

Seeing he was finally gone, a figure nimbly jumped down from the upstairs balcony he was lurking behind to eavesdrop on the couple. He unconcealed his ES, knowing it didn't matter if someone detected him, because no one was around. It was past midnight, and almost all living things were in dreamworld.

The person stuffed his hands in his pockets, sighing as he leaned against the side of the veranda railing defeatedly.

"Why is it when I want to talk to her alone, someone beats me to it?" he mumbled, lips pressed together, dissatisfied. "Then they end up kissing all the time." He wrinkled his nose. "Stupid Kai, annoying me without trying. Guess I'll try again another time." He peered beyond the windows, where the girl who gave him reason in life was. "Have sweet dreams, Alaina. Your guardians are here to protect you."

Luhan used his powers to travel up to the roof.  

...

Disclaimer: Oh, shiz. That was a lot of pictures that I do not own. Guess I gave you a nice tour of Japan, huh? More to come next chapter!

LOL, after all those pics, I'm going to spam.

(Aw, giving Bacon a wash.)

(BAEKYEOL IS BACK, BABY! Just kiss already!)

(Baekyeol is on a roll~)

(You can't understand how happy I am. ;A; They look like a real couple.)

(So effin' awesome.)

(I RLAB at this.)

(Even SM ships some of them, but this is unacceptable! How dare they separate Hunhan and Sulay?! They just had to be in different subunits.)

(Thought this was adorable. Ah, Lay umma.)

Okay, that's it for now. I'll spam another time.

Thank you for those who upvoted this story. *throws you cookies*

Reminders: UTCOU, NLUTCOU on short hiatus and re-editing until Winter Break. Slow updates because of school. Another new idea fic won't leave me alone. Pray I get new laptop for Christmas.

Guys...I was wondering...if I ever get the chance...should I audition for SM? It would be very unlike me to step out and do something, but I want to be a singer so bad. Utada Hikaru inspired me when I was around 10-11, then I dropped the whim, and when I discovered K-POP, it hit me in the face again. I sing randomly everyday and practice my pitches. I am a very good learner, both visual and auditory. But...you know, my parents think different. I don't have a lot of money either...neither have I ridden an airplane.

But putting those facts aside, it's a long shot and many components in my life bar my dreams. Just thinking about the 2013 Global Auditions torments me to no end. I feel very frustrated. No one understands me and the only support I have is my little sister and friends. I want my parents to understand the most...

Anyway, thanks for reading that part. I needed to get that out.

Until next time, please wait patiently. ~SS