GWHC05E Tom and Cooan's Honeymoon's Journey.

Tom and Cooan's Honeymoon's Journey.

A few days after the wedding, Tom and Cooan spoke very excited about the wedding trip. Roy and Beruche had gone to Europe, they did so the day after the ceremony and the celebration. Ail and Ann would spend a few days on Earth and then travel to a promising planet they had detected in order to settle down. When it comes to them the other newly married couple thought that it would be best to wait a couple of days in order to prepare things more calmly. Sitting on the couch, the girl was delighted to see brochures from travel agencies with exotic destinations.

- Look at this Tom ... travel to India and know the wonders of an ancient civilization ... the "Taj Mahal", stroll along the banks of the Ganges ...

-Sounds good,- he said. "- And what about this one from China?- He pointed to the next page. - There are many Kung - Fu schools there, I'm sure I learn something! And we could see the Great Wall. At least a little bit of it.

- But Tom! - Replied Cooan, frowning to remind him. - It will be our honeymoon, you can be a few days without martial arts, right?

-Of course I can.-  He smiled, trying to keep Cooan from getting angry. - It was just a joke, sweetheart. I assure you that I will only watch for you.

And to underline it he gave a quick kiss on the lips to his wife who smiled.

-What do you think of Hawaii?- She said after a few turned pages of the brochure. - It's such a romantic place, with natives, pirate legends ... paradisiacal beaches ... I've always wanted to go there. Well, at least since I settled on Earth and chatted with the girls from time to time.

She had memories of some conversations at the Hikawa Shrine. Particularly one day, a year before going to the United States to study, she and her sister Bertie passed by. Her friend, the priestess, in her work kimono, was just sweeping the edge of the leaf-lit garden in the late fall. It was Cooan who, smiling, greeted her.

-Hi, Rei ...

-Oh, hello, Cooan! How's Bertie? How are you doing? - Replied the girl with a smile.-

-We had the afternoon off. Today it's up to our sisters to open the store. - Beruche replied.-

-Yes, I asked my sister to accompany me to take a walk and come to visit you .- Added Cooan who asked .- Is not Yuuichirou here? ...

-No,- sighed the priestess, leaving the broom on a nearby tree to tell her friends. - It turns out that his parents were celebrating their anniversary and have invited the entire family to spend a few days in Hawaii.

-Well! His parents must have a lot of money to afford a trip like that. - Commented Bertie.-

-Yes, his father has a thriving business. A great company. And they have been rich for generations. - The priestess told them.- I heard about it once he offered to lend us a cabin in the mountains for the girls and me.

-Well! Well, with such a catch, I'm surprised you do not to be a little more with him. - Bertie smiled.-

-Well, to me, what surprises me is that he did not invite you to go.- Cooan smiled causing her friend to blush.-

-But what do you say! - Rei tried to reply, covering her cheeks with both hands .-

Her colleagues smiled amused. It was plain to see that those words had affected the seemingly severe priestess. However, they changed gears, starting another topic. It was Cooan who offered…

-You still have many leaves left to sweep, Rei-Chan. Let us help you.

-Don't worry, It will not be long.- Replied the aforementioned again with the broom.-

- We'll finish sooner, the three of us together, - Bertie said with all the air of a logical and unquestionable statement.-

Her friend smiled, so indeed join forces the three combined finished in an hour. Then, in gratitude, the tenant of the Sanctuary invited them to a tea. They could talk a little more.

-So Hawaii, huh?" - Commented Cooan resuming that subject to express with a sigh. - Someday I would like to know that place.

-Yes, it would not be bad if we four would go there,- said her sister adding, yes, with a sigh.- Although who dares to propose that to Petz? She hates losing work days…

-It would be the ideal place for a honeymoon. - Agreed Rei.-

They all blushed a little. Although it was Bertie who could say...

-Well, on any occasion it would be a very nice destination to visit. Maybe we can go together one day.

-It would be great - agreed her sister, looking at the priestess. A group trip ...all friends together.

At that moment someone else came. It was Ami, she had a few books under her arm. They were all very glad to see her, especially Bertie. Sailor Mercury smiled and commented.

-I did not know you were coming. I was with Rei yesterday to help her sweep a little and to study later.

-Were you going to study with Ami? - Cooan wanted to know.-

-No, not in dreams! – Said Rei adding. - I was going to let her use the meditation room so that she could make it calm.

- The neighbors are having works at home. There is and a lot of noise there. - Sigh Ami that explained. - The library is closed by reforms so that I asked Rei for this favor.

-And the others? - Asked Beruche interested to know.-

-There is no one to make them come, as soon as I mentioned the word “study” all told me they had to do something. - Ami smiled, causing her friends to laugh in turn.-

-Well, I'll be happy to study with you. We already helped Rei to finish sweeping the leaves. And if you and I finished soon we could play a chess game ... - Beruche affirmed with visible optimism. -

Her friend agreed to it, meanwhile Cooan told Rei.

-Meanwhile. We can chat for a while.

And so was it, while her sister and Ami went to study, she and her friend were left at the entrance of the sanctuary.

-Tell me something, Rei - Cooan asked her, now with more seriousness on her face. - If it does not seem like an intrusion in your private life. What exactly do you feel for Yuuichirou? I still remember when we fought and how you risked your own sake in order to save him. I must admit that even then, being malignant, you left me speechless by doing that.

Although her friend lowered her head and looked down, her eyes seemed sad and her interlocutor perceived it...

-What's the matter? - Inquired the girl. - Is something wrong?"

-No, is not that. - Rei could answer, almost muttering the words. - I really do not know. Even I am not sure what I feel. And what is more. I do not want to accept a commitment that is impossible for me to fulfill.

-I do not understand you - said her friend, watching her strangely. - If you loved him I do not think that was an impediment. You are a very energetic and fulfilling woman. And with a determination such that if you want something you do not stop until you achieve it.

Although the aforementioned did not respond immediately. She took a slow breath and finally stated…

-You and your sisters better than anyone else can understand. You came from the future, Cooan - The priestess reminded her.- You know what happened there ...

The interviewee watched her without understanding. Rei realized that, and then she looked at her, smiling a weak smile to add.

-I am a guardian warrior, a planetary princess. I have obligations from I cannot escape.

-But you live in the normal way now. That is over. -Opposite Cooan, pleading. - That future has changed.

-My dear friend - said her companion. - There are things I cannot run away from. Sooner or later I will have to face my duties. And I do not wish to give false hope to anyone...

This time it was Cooan who lowered her head and mumbled sadly.

-I'm sorry, Rei. I wish you could be happy with someone someday.

-I am already happy, I have the other sailors, your sisters and you, who are also dear friends.

- I say the same. - She laughed heartily at her interlocutor to affirm with affection. -And if I ever get married and have children I would not want someone else to backer them other than you by being their godmother. Would you do that for me?

That made her friend smile, she answered with emotion and happiness.

-It would be a great honor for me. And a great joy Cooan-chan. I hope one day it comes true! I would be very happy for you.

-Good. After the disappointment I suffered ... I do not have too many expectations for now.-Sighted the girl.-

-It will come. Surely you still have to meet the right guy for you - Almost prophesied her friend.-

-I hope you're right - agreed his interlocutor.-

They both clasped hands with blissful expressions. That, of course, was stuck in Cooan´s mind. Now the call of her husband took her out of those memories.

-I think it's a good idea. It will be a great trip. Right, Connie? Connie? - He insisted as the girl seemed to be thinking of something else.-

At last the aforementioned reacted, almost looking at him with expression on the way...

-Yes, it will be wonderful. We will have a good time and we will have many things to count on the return. - She smiled with enthusiasm as soon as she focused on the words of her husband.-

The boy nodded. He also found it attractive. And he said so.

-Then let's go, it's settled, I'll go to book the plane tickets tomorrow.

-Does it have to be by plane? - Cooan objected, somewhat worriedly, - I always get dizzy.

Her husband put on face of circumstances but soon managed to compose a smile.

-Good. I'll try to get a ship ticket, but we'll be late, - said the boy-

-That does not matter to me. - She smiled riveting with a rather insinuating tone. - So we can spend more time together in the cabin.

And in order to give him a sample of what she wanted to say she hugged him, then they both rolled down the couch. The rest of the day passed between interesting maneuvers to see who was on top of the other. The next morning, the two went to the nearest travel agency, there, a lovely lady attended them. They will stay in Hawaii for fifteen days. Not including the cruise. On their way back home, it was late at night for them after preparing their bags. So they went to bed early, for the ship set sail early the next morning. In her dreams, Cooan's mind returned to that conversation she had with Rei for so long, about Yuuichirou's trip to Hawaii on the anniversary of his parents...

-Really, Rei-chan - I do not think that to meet his parents would be a problem. You have to be a bit more flexible with yourself. Although at least he did not put you in that commitment.

-You see, - her friend said almost in a tone of confession. - The truth is that Yuuichirou actually proposed that I go with him. But I said no.

Cooan looked at her with her mouth open, barely able to reply.

-But Rei! It would have been a nice experience.

-Apart from what I told you. I have many things to do in the sanctuary - Opposed her interlocutor somewhat blushing now.-

Although with the inquisitive look of her friend placed on her, the priestess immediately sighed with a shrug and added.

-I did not want to give you the wrong impression either. That of going to the celebration of their parents, they could have supposed that, you know ... we were something more than friends...

-That boy loves you very much - Cooan stated, laying a hand on her friend's as she told her. - I've told you before. When we fought and attacked you, I remember that he did not hesitate to stand between my "dark fire" and you. That was the first thing that made me think. It really surprised me a lot, that someone could do something like that for someone else who apparently treated him so badly.

Now her friend lowered her eyes again, it seemed a bit distressed. Cooan quickly hurried to apologize.

-I'm sorry, I did not mean that.

-I know ... do not worry. If I treat him like this is for a good reason. As I told you before, it is not so easy. -Rei retorted. - Even without talking about the future, you know perfectly well that I am still having obligations as a warrior, besides being a priestess, and I would like to build a future, perhaps in the world of the song. At the moment I do not have time for romance. I like to be independent and to Yuuichirou I consider him as a good friend ....only that.

-Are you sure of that? - Insisted her interlocutor.-

-I remember once the very fool even wanted to fight with one of my fellow sailors because in her civil identity, she dressed like a boy. He took her for a suitor of mine! The priestess smiled now, shaking her head. - He's a very jealous boy.

-I understand ...- Cooan could tell that she realized that this was a nuisance for her friend, so she said, - Well, I wish someone would propose to me one day to go to Hawaii.

-Well, your sister Bertie has already proposed - reminded her the priestess. -

-I mean a handsome boy who really loves me. - She confessed to her interlocutor.-

-Do not worry. I'm sure that will one day happen. - Rei said.-

-Do you really believe it? - Asked the young woman visibly hopeful.-

-Sure, I'm not a priestess and I have the gift of clairvoyance for nothing. - She smiled.-

-You know something that you do not tell me, - Cooan suspected, adding another smile. - Have you seen anything in your flames about that?"

-As you have said. I cannot tell you anything - replied her friend, becoming mysterious.-

-What do you mean, no? -  Cooan laughed over her now, trying to tickle her as she asked again. -Tell me ... did you see me traveling to Hawaii with some handsome boy?"

-You're going to have to wait and see what happens. - The aforementioned said, bouncing off the friendly attack.-

The two rolled with laughter on the lawn of the Sanctuary, alternately placing one over the other. In the end they separated, lying each on the grass and still laughing. They must have made so much of a scandal that even Ami and Bertie came out of the study room, attracted by the noise. Asleep, the girl smiled remembering all those events, how different they were from the previous battle to death that kept both!

-My dear Rei- Chan ... my friend - She mumbled in that dream world.-

The alarm went off at six in the morning, ripping her out of that memory. Cooan opened one eye and yawned. She was about to turn it off when she realized they had to go on a trip. She jumped up and woke Tom by the shoulder.

-What's up? - Murmured the boy still between dreams.-

-Come on, Tom! We have to get up, the ship is leaving at nine o'clock. - Her alarmed wife reminded him. -

Having heard this the boy also jumped up. He and Cooan got up and prepared in a hurry. Luckily they had the luggage done, they just had to call a taxi and go to the port. The trip until there lasted two hours, the fare was not cheap but they arrived on time. The ship would set sail in ten minutes, they both boarded and Cooan sighed with relief.

-I thought we would lose it!

-It would have been a very short boyfriend's trip, - said Tom looking funny - but we're already on the move. Let's have a drink at the restaurant....

-Yes, I'm hungry, how good is being in a boat! This not to fly is magnificent, so I will not get dizzy - Her wife was glad.-

They took a light lunch, later went to their stateroom, it was spacious and quite luxurious, it was endowed with a wide bed with blue sheets that harmonized with the walls. A built-in bathroom with a shower, large wooden wardrobes, a small table with TV, a cozy two-seater sofa and a large window with a view to the outside to admire the views. Cooan looked around and could only make out an endless stretch of water.

-We're surrounded by sea all over the place, - she told her husband while she was putting her things in the closet. - I hope this does not sink.

-Come on, Cooan! - said Tom, we are not aboard of the Titanic. Come on, take it easy and let's take a walk on the deck....

The girl agreed, and after putting her things in order and dressed in short, but with a jacket over her shoulders, as it began to dusk and refreshed, they went on deck. There were quite a few people and numerous couples who also wandered by the place like they did.

-Look - Tom said confidentially, - there must be a lot of young couples like us.

-No wonder, it's so romantic to go by boat - she said, clutching an arm of her husband. -

They traversed the ship from bow to stern, there they looked at the large pool. Near it was a long row of sunbeds with their umbrellas.

-We'll come to take a bath tomorrow, - Cooan said. "I did not think there was such a big pool on a boat."

-It's a transatlantic, - the boy explained, - at least three hundred meters in length and many decks high. It fits perfectly an Olympic pool, although this one is approximately half of that size.

-We should go back to the cabin, it's getting dark, and in an hour the captain gives us the welcome dinner - she recalled. - We have to change clothes.

-You're right - he agreed, eager to do it - let's go back.-

Holding hands, they returned to their cabin and settled for dinner. Cooan in a splendid violet evening gown matching her eyes and a white flower in her hair and Tom in a very elegant tuxedo.

-You look as Tuxedo Kamen now, don´t you? - The girl smiled, looking at her husband carefully, to add. - If you wore a mask and a bouquet of roses, you would give that impression even to Usagi - chan - LOL!

- However, You look like no other.  There is no girl as pretty as you. You look beautiful in that dress! He admired her, making the girl blush. -

And without further comments on their outfits they left the cabin, closing the door. After traveling the corridors and some decks arrived at the dining room of the ship and occupied their table. At the beginning of the dinner, the captain addressed the passengers expressing to them his wish for a pleasant voyage, and commenting on the various stopovers they would make on the islands of Hawaii, Maui, Maui, Kauai, Malokai, and Lanai with final destination in Oahu, where they would dock in the city of Honolulu, the state capital. Afterwards, the dinner passed between performances by comedians, magicians and songs that entertained them both. Then a dance, the couple danced well into the night, arousing the admiration of many passengers by their style and then, very tired but happy of the evening, they went to sleep. The next day Cooan's wishes to go to the pool were frustrated by a storm. Unfortunately for her the ship was moving as much or more than a plane and that produced a strong dizziness. The poor girl had to stay in bed all day while Tom cared to look after her...

-Are you better, sweetheart? - He asked interestedly as he put a cold compress on her head.-

-Oh, yes, a little better - whispered the young woman, to moan at once. - What a bad luck! And I thought that in a boat so big I could not get dizzy...

-Yours is not sailing, either - her husband smiled, and asked curiously. - Tell me one thing, when you were in your spaceship of the Black Moon, perhaps you were not dizzy?

-No, - said the girl, explaining. - Then, apart from my powers, the ship did not move this way. What I lament is that tomorrow I'm going to be a mess, it's going to end the crossing and I'm going to be in bed ... - she said distressed. -

-Do not worry honey, - Tom answered, taking her gently by the hand to promise, - I'll be right here with you. And surely you will get well as soon as this storm calms down, it should not be for too long...

But nature seemed to have other plans. In fact, when the boy looked through his porthole the view was scary, the sea was choppy and it rained heavily. Luckily that boat was huge and surely this storm would be nothing to her. Well, at least that's what the boy expected. It would be better not to say anything to his wife. That kind of news won´t be needed for her to know. At last and after a few hours the troubled young woman fell asleep. Tom, not to disturb her, lay down on the couch. The next day things seemed to have improved a lot. The storm had ceased, and a sky as blue as the waters, and no trace of clouds, received them upon awakening.

-Good morning, darling - Cooan said, waking her sleeping husband cowering on the couch clothed with a plain sheet. -

-Tell me - he whispered, opening his eyes and taking an interest in her. - You are better?

- Yes, I am feeling like if I was renew, I am so sorry that you had to have such a bad night because of me...

-Don't worry, the most important thing is that you are well. - He said while he got up from the sofa and stretched, proposing with care. - We are going to have breakfast if you fancy.

-Yes, I want to go down to one of the islands ...- she affirmed with almost childish enthusiasm.-

Cooan took a shower to finish clearing. Now it was perfectly, the boat did not move and that was what mattered most. She got dressed and with Tom went to the dining room. After breakfast they prepared to disembark on one of the ladders that the ship made in the islands near the archipelago of Hawaii. Tom, after looking at a little book that talks about that archipelago told his wife.

-Did you know that the islands are simply the peaks that protrude from the sea of ​​a great mountain range?

-Really? How is that possible? -She wanted to know with a surprised face.-

-You will see. –

Here he says that they were formerly known as the Sandwich Islands. And they are part of the mountain range called Hawai-emperor. The entire archipelago takes its name from the largest island, Hawaii.

-It's very interesting- said Cooan, adding amused. - My sister Bertie loves this sort of things. She told me that she would try to learn as much as possible about Europe on her honeymoon trip.

-Yes, surely. - Tom laughed almost as if he could see it. - And in the meantime I bet anything on that, my friend Roy will try to find out where you can eat well and have some fun. LOL!

His wife laughed too. She could easily imagine her sister's partner doing exactly that. Meanwhile Tom commented.

-We're going to disembark on Kauai. It is the oldest of the islands. It says here that it is a very humid place. We will go to the city of Lihue.

So it was. They bought some souvenirs, took some photos and returned to the ship, it sailed, heading finally towards its final destination. Hilo, on the Big Island. At dusk and both watched the sunset over the calm sea. Tom said something thoughtful and jokingly.

-We're getting closer to the Bermuda Triangle area, I hope we're not going to disappear.

-Of course, how on Earth are you saying that! - Cooan reproved him with a smile - Do you want to scare me? ...

-Of course! - He said between amusing and rogue to unveil - so you will embrace me strong...

-That's not necessary for you to scare me, - Cooan whispered to her, who actually hugged her husband by giving him a light kiss. - That's enough for me to be affectionate.

- Well, you do not have to worry anyway. - He smiled, commenting. - That triangle is not around. Although I have always been curious about these things, ever since I was a kid and I was hearing stories of planes missing during World War II - He confessed now seriously.

-Something I heard, too - she admitted, remembering some TV show. - It's strange that the sailors have not dealt with this issue...

-Ha, ha, ha! - Tom laughed wanting to leave his wife surprised to add with humor - are only stories Cooan, it's a joke! ...if the sailors had to deal with all the legends that are told, these poor girls would not have a minute free.

- May be. But experience has taught me, - replied the one in a tone more serious than the boy would have imagined - that the stories that are told should never be ignored. There is always something which is true...

-Of course there is - Tom replied condescendingly as he explained. - The magnetic pole of the Earth and some climatic phenomena. That's what causes some accidents and gives these places a bad name. But do not worry. This ship and many others pass frequently here and nothing has ever happened to them. Well, at least I hope there's no Tsunami.

-Tsunamis?" She was startled to hear that.

-I read that the city of Hilo has suffered some terrible ones in the last fifty years. - Said the boy.-

- And you tell me this now! - sighed the girl smiling as she moved her head to add in what seemed a reproach. - I almost think you want something strange to happen to have fun in our honeymoon.

-Do not say that, honey. It was just a comment. - Tom hurried to reply, affirming. - At your side I do not need any other emotion.

-It's getting cold - the girl changed the subject as she wrapped herself in a light jacket that she wore on her shoulders.-

-Yes - agreed Tom, grasping her waist. Come, lest we be abducted out here, or a wave come. LOL!

Cooan held his gaze with a serious expression and when the boy thought he might have screwed up somehow and she had been offended, she could not bear it and laughed amusedly. She also knew how to tease him when she proposed.

-I got you! - She exclaimed amused.

-You scared me! -  He sighed relief now.-

-Well, do not forget. That I can be frightening at times. She smiled, running her hands behind her husband's neck and pulling him towards her until he could kiss her.

-Yes ... you have a lot of personality when you get angry - Ha, ha ... -The boy agreed-

In this way the two entered the cabin waiting for the farewell dinner hour and the arrival on the big island the next day. Dressed in elegant suits, this time, she in a short saffron dress and he wearing a suit of jacket and tie, they entered the dining room. There, all the passengers were gathered for dinner. After hearing the captain's message that he wished they had enjoyed the journey, dinner and a party that lasted until late began. Tom and Cooan danced and had fun until they were exhausted, back to their cabin, no energy for more, they lay down and immediately fell asleep. The girl dreamed of some of her memories. Her childhood in Nemesis, with her parents. To her mother, Idina, who seemed to speak to her ... Cooan could see her sitting in that kind of rocking chair in her bedroom.

-Mom, - she asked incredulously. - When did you come?"

-I'm always with you, my child. - She smiled tenderly at her, adding. - Same as with your other sisters.

-I wish we could be together the whole family, with you and with Dad - the girl wished.-

-Now you have another life, my child. One that I augur you will be successful. You must move on. - Her mother encouraged her to darken her countenance as she added. - But never forget that the threat of evil is always present. Do not neglect. The diabolical forces always long to recover what once belonged to them.

-What do you mean? - Asked her interlocutor.

-You must be very careful my love - whispered her mother.-

Suddenly she was no longer there. Now Cooan found herself inside the dining room of Tom's parents' house. She heard the voice of Sarah, the mother of her husband, calling her.

-Constance? It's you?

-Mrs. Rodney. - The girl could reply. - Yes, I am...

There was this woman, with her hair already gray and her smile, which marked a few wrinkles on her face, she was close to the sixties. She nodded. She realized that she had called her by the name that was not her real name, but as this woman always said, the real, Cooan, sounded very strange to her, and all of them called her Connie, her husband's mother could not help but use the formal version of that affectionate appellation. She always said Constance was a real Christian name. And that described very well the character of her daughter-in-law. A constant and hard working girl in order to reach her goals. But now she just asked the girl.

-Did I frighten you, daughter?"

-No, I was just thinking, I remembered my mother - She confessed without knowing why.

-I understand - Sarah said, motioning for the girl to sit next to her on the living room sofa. - It must have been hard for you to lose your parents.

-Yes, - admitted her companion, who stated in a heartfelt manner. - I still miss them very much. Especially my mother. And now that I'm so happy, being with Tom and being part of his family, sometimes I think I can lose him and that feeling terrifies me. I do not want to be alone.

Mrs. Rodney looked at her sympathetically, and, placing a hand on the girl's, assured her with a maternal tone.

-Fear not for that, my dear. My son loves you as much as you love him. Nothing can break that bond. Even in the hardest moments or with the most terrible tests, it will prevail. Trust that.

Cooan nodded with a smile. That woman was very nice and she really appreciated her.

-Thank you. - She could reply, though suddenly she found himself saying that in the middle of an empty space. Eh? Where am I?

-Dear Kermesite. - She heard a familiar voice behind her.-

A chill ran down her spine, she turned quickly to exclaim.

-Ru! Rubeus ... Are you? ...

-Who was going to be but me? - He smiled impishly adding. - I was waiting for you, beautiful Kermesite...

-To me?

- Of course, who else would I expect? He replied, holding her in both arms and pulling her toward him.

-No, no ... this is not okay - she could say, visibly stiff.-

-What is not right? - Replied the interlocutor looking at her in surprise. What? ... Do not you love me anymore?

The girl managed to get out of that embrace hard and looked at him shaking her head...

-This is not happening.

-Are you all right? - Her commander wanted to know, watching her strangely to add. - I was going to assign you a mission, but I can ask another of your sisters...

-What kind of mission? -  Inquired the young woman.-

-You do not know? - Asked an amused Rubeus, telling her next - You must go to Hikawa Shrine to kill the little girl.

Her interlocutor opened her mouth in horror, shook her head, but at that moment she realized that she was inside that ship from which she came from the future. When she was reflected in one of the mirrors, she uttered an exclamation. She wore her old uniform!

-No, I cannot do that. -She could barely answer, adding in a tone between imploring and frightened. - I'm not like this anymore...

-Like what?" Rubeus asked, still looking at her in surprise and annoyance to exclaim. - Can you tell me what's wrong with you? Ayakashi sisters ... come here. - He ordered -

The girl sighed with relief. Her sisters would come and help her to escape. Then the other three passed through their respective mirrors. Each wearing her duty clothes. It was Petz who intervened to want to know.

-What happens master Rubeus?

-Have you called him master? - Cooan said in surprise.

-Of course, Kermesite. What should our sister call him? - Bertie replied, looking at her in disbelief.-

-Your sister is not well. She does not act as usual on her. - His boss told them. -

-Well, how sorry I am! - Calaverite declared with her usual tinge of sarcasm. - Are you sick dear sister?

-No, no ... I ... I do not know what's going on, but this is not right. You should not be here. I should not be here neither. She barely stammered.

Petzite looked at her sister with a mixture of astonishment and uneasiness. Then she looked at Calaverite who shrugged. After a few moments, the eldest of the sisters told Rubeus.

-We'll take care of this, master...

-I hope it's not a family legacy. - He said, asserting not without a certain tone of concern. - And that does not happen to you like your mother.

-Our mother? - Beruche said with an astonished gesture. - She was not well. -  She added with regret. - I think losing our father and us going to court has just driven her crazy.

-Poor Kermesite, - Petzite said in a tone that was soft and sympathetic. - Do not be afraid, little sister, we'll take care of you. Master Wise Man will heal you...

That made her shudder in horror at listening to that name, she now denied vigorously with her head as she screamed.

-Do not! The Sage does not. He is to blame for everything ... You must believe me! Bertie, Kalie, Petz ... You have to warn the girls...

-What girls? -  Calaverite was surprised to look at her now, not without concern.-

-What's the matter? -  Bertierite wanted to know with an astonished gesture.-

-She's crazy - Petzite sighed. - It must be hereditary. Our poor mother ended up very poorly. Our grandmother Kim was not very well either when she got old. And even great-grandmother Kurozuki ... she came from another world with great-grandmother Crimson, and she did not live so much...

-The dark energy of our planet Nemesis was very harmful, but thanks to the advances of science and the Master Wise Man that was solved long time ago. - Commented Bertierite.-

-Unfortunately it seems that our poor little sister has inherited some disorders. - Calaverite said. - It's a shame.

-Take care of her. But don´t let her to interfere. - We have a mission to fulfill. - Sentenced Rubeus in an unpleasant way, leaving through his mirror.-

After the departure of their chief there was a thick and uneasy silence. Cooan watched her three sisters with a gesture of disbelief and fear.

-No, this ... I could not be happening. It's over ... She barely managed to stammer.-

-Come, it will do you good to rest a little - Petzite said to the frightened girl.-

- You do not understand. We already passed through this and we left of it. - Replicated the girl.-

- What I do not understand is what you're saying. - Bertierite replied, using a cooler tone and habitual in her at least in her time of Ayakashi adding. - You must calm down, we just want to help you.

-We left this life. I'm married to Tom, you with Roy, we've gone on a honeymoon's trip. - She explained to her sister, leaving her as astonished as the other two.-

-Roy? Who is Roy? - Bertie could be asked visibly confused to add with a tinge of discomfort. - If it's a joke, it's not funny.

- No, it is not ... Do not you remember?" Implored her little sister, almost desperate.-

-You're distressed Kermesite - Calaverite concluded in a more serious tone. - You'd better go into your room and leave the mission to us.

-Do not! - She objected to this affirming. - You cannot hurt that girl.

-We're not going to hurt her. We will kill her quickly. - Smiled sarcastically Bertierite to the horror of her younger sister. - I assure you she will not suffer ...too much.

 -But that's wrong. And what about the Moon warriors, - said the distressed young woman.-

-You're absolutely right - Calaverite said in a thoughtful voice. -  We cannot do it...It will be a mistake.

Cooan looked at her expectantly, she was hopefully now. Maybe her sister had begun to realize.

-How glad I am to see you again as you really are! - She exclaimed, hugging her.-

Although the object of that spontaneous show of affection, turned her away, staring at her in amazement. The same as the others. At last Calaverite added leaving her sister shocked.

-I was going to say we'll have to get rid of them first. A good plan will have to be drawn up. I do not want to fail again because of you. - She said looking now at her older sister.-

-What do we mean by our fault? - Petz reproached her in turn. - I'd like to see when you've done something on your own.

-Do not argue - Bertie asked, trying to mediate. - This is not the right moment for that.

-This is crazy. Do not you see? - Exclaimed Cooan drawing the attention of the rest again.-  The White Moon warriors are our friends. They saved us...

That made her other sisters stop arguing and watched her with growing uneasiness.

-She's gone completely crazy, - Petzite said. - Girls, help me to get her into her room. Let's see if we can restore her sanity.

And in spite of her entreaties and her struggles her other sisters caught her and locked Cooan in her room. Once there they left leaving her alone. Cooan wanted to leave but now she saw nowhere to escape. Then, a tall black figure, covered by a sackcloth, floated before her. Trembling with terror, she could hardly murmur.

-Wise…man

- You have a very important mission to fulfill - replied the strange man in a deep tone.-

-No, I will not, do you hear me? - I will not kill Chibiusa ...- she exclaimed. I swear I will free my sisters from your control.

His companion said nothing, he simply opened a large burgundy book that he carried under his right arm. And finally he declared with enigmatic tone.

-I'm not who you think. But I warn you. The evil is still within you, in fact we all carry something inside us. Take care that it does not dominate you.

And he showed the frightened girl an image. Right in a mirror of the room. Cooan could see Tom sleeping on the bed in his cabin. She looked at herself, sleeping beside him. Then, her other self-woke up. At least she opened his eyes, but they glowed red. Her face was deformed by a sadistic grimace and she rose from the bed. She looked at her husband lying there defenseless and raising one of her hands made the nails of the same grew to take shape of terrible claws. With a rictus of madness and a laugh she prepared to nail them in the throat of her defenseless victim.

-No, Tom!" - Cooan screamed at the seeing of that.-

Without thinking she rushed to that mirror to try to stop that. Now she gasped with a long sigh, rising from the bed. It took her a moment to focus on where she was. Lying in that room, in the ship's cabin. Beside her, her husband apparently slept oblivious to all that, but fortunately unscathed. After breathing in an agitated way, the girl sucked in air slowly and deeply to calm herself. It was still morning. Once more she smiled, watching Tom. The boy breathed rhythmically and softly in the middle of his dream. She stroked his chin and cheek. Then she brushed his hair and ended up giving her a loving kiss on the forehead.

- It was just a nightmare. Thank God. - She said relieved. - My love, I could not stand for something bad to happen to you, and less If I were the responsible and had to blame myself for it.

After a few moments to regain her spirits, she fell back, hugging him. At last she fell asleep again, exhausted. Forgetting that bad dream, thinking

-Nothing could make me as I was before…

The next morning the two of them woke up when the boat had already been anchored. After awaking they admired the beautiful view of the natural harbor in which they were. Without loss of time they made their luggage and disembarked.

-We're in Hawaii, at last! -  He exclaimed, to the satisfaction of his partner.-

However, the girl felt a little stunned. She vaguely remembered having had a nightmare but it could not be cleared in her mind. In fact, she did not remember anything in particular. She sighed, letting him be. This was no time to worry her husband about that. Especially when she saw the joy that filled him, then she smiled.

-Yes, - she said cheerfully. - At last we have arrived ... I really want to enjoy this place.

Tom nodded. He had been in charge of reserving one of the bungalows belonging to a hotel. After carrying their luggage there and giving a good tip to the bellman both put in place their things. The bungalow was divided into spacious rooms. A modern kitchen, a bathroom with beautiful green tiles and a large bathtub for two equipped with yacusi. The dining room had excellent views from where they could enjoy an unbeatable view of the white and sandy coast. It also communicated with a large terrace by means of a wide cane door. And finally, the bedroom, which was by far the best room. It was presided over by a large heart-shaped bed, two bedside tables and a large built-in wardrobe. All done in the native way, with branches of interlaced reeds that, despite looking fragile, had great resistance. Cooan marveled at the magnificent view that this room also offered. Through a large window and a door that communicated with the large terrace on the outside. Once the luggage was unpacked and more comfortable Tom asked his wife to walk along the beach, she gladly accepted. On leaving, he made an indication to the waiter who took care of the tourists. It was a signal agreed upon earlier. Tom took his wife's arm to the shore, there was little time for the sun to set. Both of them, hand in hand, walked leisurely along that endless deserted beach, with the only company of some surfer in the distance.

-You do not think it precious - said Cooan, evidently enthusiastic. - The sun, the sea, everything for us!

-Yes, darling, - Tom replied with a broad smile, - it seems we were at the beginning of time. I hope a prehistoric monster does not come out of the water! – He said in a fake serious way -

Cooan looked at him, annoyed that he had broken the wonderful spell that had inspired her, but then she came and laughed and hugged him.

-You're a fool! You look more and more like Roy every time.-

-Hey! - Tom protested as he laughed. -Do not insult me in that way! -  He said as he grabbed his wife by the waist and lifted her in a whirl, twirling with her as she kicked. –

-Laugh at me if you dare, - the girl laughed wildly.-

Her husband released her and she splashed him with the seawater that licked the coast, then ran she tried to escape but she was chased by him. He was fast and it did not take too long for him to reach her. The boy tossed her gently into the sand and they rolled, kissing each other in the foamy water. When they finished, he commented, also in a funny tone.

-Another thing we had not thought of. I already told you on the boat. Did you know that Hawaii is called the world capital of tsunamis?

-Darling, - her partner smiled, looking at him, too, wanting to joke. - I came from Japan. About other things you can give me lessons, but of tsunamis precisely, no, ha, ha! ... In fact it is a Japanese word. The giant wave that breaks in the port. Translated.

-Touché. - He admitted that he then stood up to comment as they observed some guys with their surfboards. - I think this is the coast of Kona. In the brochure it is advisable to visit the town of Kailua. It has interesting buildings and historic areas.

-Now you speak like my sister Bertie! - Laughed his interlocutor nodding to add jovial. - Of course. Tomorrow we could go. Although it is getting late now.

-Well, maybe we could use it for dinner. Do not you think? - The boy proposed.

She nodded with visible desire. Certainly so much frolic and the excitement of the trip had made her being hungry. Without waiting another moment, his solicitous husband lifted her in his arms and carried her back to the bungalow. Once at the entrance, Tom said with feigned solemnity.

-Mrs. Rodney, would you do me the honor of letting yourself drive in? -  She nodded amusedly and the boy crossed the threshold with Cooan in his arms and laid her on the bed. -

The girl saw on a table in the middle of the bedroom a few glasses with plates and two candles arranged to illuminate an exquisite dinner. Near the bed she also noticed a screen on which was a cane skirt and a garland of flowers that formed a necklace, typical of those islands.

- Do you want to have dinner already, sweetheart? -  Tom proposed.

- By all means, but before we see that beautiful sunset, please. - She asked her. -

He agreed with a slight nod. After watching the sunset over the horizon, in the beautiful waters that bathed the coast, Cooan lay on the bed facing the ceiling, she was completely happy. At that moment, she wished that time would not pass. Joking with herself maybe she could give a call to Setsuna and ask her that.  Meanwhile, Tom left her for a few moments knowing that the girl felt full. Then he asked her again to get up and accompany him to dinner.

-Come on honey, I promise you'll like it - he assured her, giving her a soft kiss on the forehead.-

His wife smiled and got up, they both had dinner and it was, everything was delicious. Then she went behind the screen, took off her bathing suit and put on her skirt and collar. Only with this did her body come out of the screen and came dancing in the manner of the Hawaiians to Tom. Cooan sat on his knees and they kissed each other, then he took off her picturesque outfit and they both lay on the bed. The boy stripped himself of his clothes. At last, once they had finished, she confessed to her husband with a broad and dazzling smile.

-I'm so happy now that I do not want time to pass!"

-I understand you very well - he replied as he stroked her. - Everything we've been through seems so distant now. But we must go ahead, sure that life still holds many great things on store for us...

-You're right - Cooan admitted, - when we get back we have our job and eventually, who knows, maybe a lot of kids.

-Well! He laughs, - we're already working hard on that, do not you think? - Your interlocutor agreed on that, certainly they did! -  And she also laughed. -

The cool night had already fallen on them, they decided to try to sleep to begin to know the island the next day. When the sun's warm rays dawned, they were awakened at once. They both got up fresh, without any laziness, washed and went out to breakfast at a nearby canteen. They ordered a hearty breakfast made from milk, coconuts and other tropical fruits accompanied by toast and the famous locomoco. -

-This is a lot! - Cried the girl.

He watched this exotic rice dish, with hamburger, pork and a fried egg on top, among other foods.

-It's a very typical dish here - Her husband informed her adding - If you cannot I'll eat it.

-You're going to sit down and your belly is going to be plenty - his wife warned.

- Well, I may not finish it, though I think of Roy and his brother. Ha, ha! ... They would enjoy it with this.

His wife agreed. In fact they were eating with great appetite, giving good account of almost everything, when Tom proposed to Cooan.

- Would you like to rent a sailboat and take a tour around the island?

-Of course! - She said, quite excited, - it must be exciting.

-Good! -  Tom exclaimed excitedly to confide in a row. - Since my childhood I always wanted to sail the South Seas. Well, even if it was just sailing a little near the coast and we're in Hawaii, not in Java. Cooan laughed as she listened. - Yes, yes, it is true, - he assured her, trying to be serious, but without success, - is that I really liked pirate movies, really.

- I imagine you as a pirate and it is funny!" - replied the girl without being able to avoid the laughter.

- Yes? Replied the young man who smiled rather maliciously and began to tickle his wife, - but now you're going to laugh, you'll see how I get my paw on the stick. -

-Stop Tom! - She protested weeping with laughter - that everyone looks at us...

- Lets them have a look- he said nonchalantly as he tried to bite her ear. -

After a few minutes playing they finally calmed down and with the amused looks of all the customers on them they left the canteen. They headed for the marina that was only two hundred meters away. Along the way Tom told his wife quite enthusiastically.

-We will rent one with three masts, with very large white candles and a siren in the bow...

-You are asking for too much. Aren´t you? - She asked, rather amused by the occurrences of her husband. - Maybe they only have a few small boats to go around the beach.

-Come on Cooan! do not spoil my dream!. - He protested jocularly, simulating some disappointment. –

She shook her head. Well, if that's what the boy wanted. Now they were holding hands again, and they were about to reach the harbor when someone came running up to them. He seemed to run away from something because he constantly looked back. He had one of his hands under his dark shirt as if he held something under her. In his run over he could not help but bump into Tom and Cooan. These, still stunned, were not able to utter a word. The stranger, a young man with island features, looked at them with true terror reflected in his eyes. He got up and ran without even an apology. When they stood up, Tom was the first to react, and he did it in anger.

"-There must always be some idiot who does not look where he's going ... are you all right darling?" He asked Cooan, wiping off his shorts. -

-Yes, do not worry, nothing has happened to me. I just got a little sand stained. - Answered the girl -

Although from a distance he observed, a man also with features characteristic of the inhabitants of Hawaii, but of middle age. He was among palm trees and looked at them severely...

-Connie! Is anything wrong? -  Tom asked.-

The young woman was distracted by looking at her husband, and when she looked at that other individual he was no longer there. In truth, she could not see him. She said nothing and decided that it would be better to clean her clothes, but as she finished shaking the remaining sand, she realized that there was something on the floor. It was a mostly rectangular shape the size of a fist, with a dark brown color pulling ebony that made it easy to distinguish from the white sandy soil. As she approached and lifted it she realized that it was a figure, it seemed a craft representation of those native idols that she had seen in the postcards.

-Look at this, Tom. It must be from that man, he will have lost it by colliding with us.

-We can go and give it back to him, but at the speed he ran we would be a hard time catching him. - Bah! - He exclaimed unconcernedly, it must be one of those figures that sell to tourists, it will not be worth much.

-And if you're wrong? - Cooan asked, somewhat worried, - that man seemed very frightened. As soon as he saw us I noticed his eyes. He was running from someone, I'm sure, that's why he looked back and did not avoid us. We should find him and give him back this - she gestured with the idol in her right hand. -

-Or maybe he stole it and was running away from the police or the owner - Tom mused. - We'd better find a police station and give it to him. If it is his, he will seek him, if he is a thief, so he will not take it.

- I think its best - she agreed, seeming anxious to solve that. - Let's do it as soon as possible, lest they think we've stolen it from us ... besides, I think someone was watching us.- Said then girl with concerned expression in her face.-

- Who? -  Her husband wanted to know, looking in all directions. Is he here?

- I do not know, he seemed a man a little bit older than us. He looked at us from these palm trees. –She indicated pointing to that plant formation.-

- I did not see anyone then. - He said with a shrug. - Anyway, he could be a curious who only passed by. Although it is best that we do we have said. I do not want us to look for complications, and less on our honeymoon.

So they both ran to the nearest police station inside the island. When they were on the road they felt once more as if someone were watching them. Tom was on guard, his prevention was successful, a man jumped on him as he passed a few palm trees, and the boy easily avoided and hit him with a kick that threw him to the ground. It was the individual from before.

-Why are you attacking us? -  Cried Tom furiously. - What do you want?

The man looked puzzled as he blew from his nose, only succeeded in saying in a trembling voice.

-The idol, return it to me...

-I do not know what you're talking about - the boy lied, folding his arms. -

-I know you have it, I stumbled upon you a moment ago and I lost it ...- He pointed to Cooan who looked back at him in confusion and worried - you have it! Give it back! -Insisted that guy who tried to stand up to her but her husband stepped on his way with angry expression. -...

-You try to touch my wife and I'll break your face! -  He threatened the stranger, causing him to retreat. -

-You do not understand, it is very important that you give it to me. You do not know what you have in your hands. - The man kept insisting, his voice growing more desperate. -

- I only see a guy who must be a thief and he's come back for his booty - Tom replied. - Let's go to the police and we'll clear everything up."

- Give it to me! - Shouted the man next to lose the nerves - you are “haole”, you do not know how things are here.

-Tom, - said Cooan, somewhat nervous, but trying to overcome and calm the tense situation - you'd better give it and go. I do not want to get into trouble.

-What if you stole it and the police accused us of accomplices? - Someone could see us give it to you ... not to mention! ...

-Why is it so important? - asked the young woman turning now to that guy who almost trembled. - What does that idol mean that makes you so afraid?

The man seemed confused, as if he wanted to answer the question but something prevented him from doing so. At last he gave an answer to expectant Cooan.

-Whoever has that idol puts his soul in danger because the demons will come for him.

-Look, my friend, do not give us children's stories - Tom said with a smile of disbelief. - Besides, do not worry about it. We know how to deal with demons, I can assure you. And if it is so dangerous, why do you want to have it?

-I am a priest, - said the man who seemed calmer, - only I and my caste can carry it without problems. But I do not have much time left. Please, give me back the idol. - He insisted again in a calmer way.-

The girl seemed to hesitate, she was about to take the statuette out of her purse when they heard voices coming toward them.

-I've been found, dammit! -  The man howled at the astonishment of Tom and Cooan. - Please, I beg you, you must return it to me tonight on the beach near the breakwater! - And without giving them time or even to reply, the man fled, leaving them both astonished.-

As soon as that guy ran out, the murmur of those voices slowly disappeared until nothing was heard. Tom looked cautiously from the parapet that provided a small wall but could not see anyone.

-I do not understand who or from whom he has fled, there is no one there, - he said to his wife with a shrug. -

-Let's go back to the bungalow, I do not want to stay here to find out - Cooan asked visibly uneasily. –

He was also eager to return, so that both returned to their house and there the girl took the idol leaving him on a table.

-What are we going to do Tom? - She asked hesitantly. -

-I have no idea, - he replied with the same feeling. - All I know is that I will feel happy when we can get rid of this thing. - As soon as we rest, we will go to the police...

-I do not know, there's something about this statuette I do not like. – Answered his wife.-

And to underline hers words, she looked apprehensively at that figure as if it were a time bomb.

- We should call the Five O. - He allowed himself to say with a half-smile, trying to cheer his wife. - Surely they solve it.

-Five O? What is that? - inquired the girl.

-A group of special cops, - Tom said, and then smiled, admitting. - Well, it was actually an old television series. I saw it when I was little.

- I do not know how you can joke at a time like this, - she objected.-

-Let's go honey ... Nothing has happened so serious.- He tried to justify himself by laying his hands on his wife's shoulders to whisper it with conciliatory tones.- If you worry so much we will get rid of the figurine now.

-Then let's go tonight to the place where he told us,- Cooan asked him, - we give him that object and well will have peace ...

-Well, we'll wait here until the night, I would not want whatever that guy fled from would get on us.

His wife agreed to that. They waited in a somewhat tense fashion for the agreed time, then headed there. Cooan took the statuette and put it in her bag. When they arrived only the sound of the waves breaking against the coast was heard, both approached with great caution.

-We must go quietly - Tom told his wife, - they might be stalking.

-Who? - She replied, looking around, unable to see anyone.-

-I do not know, but somebody, - the boy whispered. - You never know.

-It's true, well, then I'd better turn to “Justiciera” just in case. -

-No, with the transformation you would bring light and they might see you at a great distance. - Her husband warned her. -

Cooan then became aware of it. The transformation was very showy and that used to like a lot, but in this case was not too useful. So they decided to approach more slowly and shielding themselves in the palms and other types of vegetation able to provide them protection. When they arrived there was no one, they waited for a while and the stranger did not appear.

-That guy has played with us, - he feared, starting to get angry. –

-Let's give him a little more time, - she said, trying to calm her husband down. - Maybe they've followed him and he tried to fool them.

-Maybe, we'll wait fifteen more minutes and if he doesn`t come we'll go to the police.

-It's okay, I'm starting to get fed up of this - Cooan agreed.-

The fifteen minutes passed and they decided to leave. As she made her way back, she noticed something in the thicket. They approached and saw with horror that it was the man they had been with, it seemed that he was dead, as if strangled.

-Oh no! What are we going to do? -  Cooan exclaimed, frightened. –

-We'll have to tell the police - Tom said, frightened as well. -Come on!

They ran out of there and then arrived to the police station. Tom came in like a breath and denounced what was happening.

-There's a dead man on the beach! Please! Come quickly!

Immediately two local police officers escorted the couple in a Jeep to the beach. When they arrived they illuminated the area that the woman pointed out to them.

-There, there, look – Following her instructions both agents stepped out of the vehicle, wielding their weapons with precaution.-

However. After a while to make sure that there was nothing suspicious or suspect were stuffed and searched the place, but found nothing.

-Listen, ma'am, - one of the cops said to Cooan, annoyed enough. - We're not for this kind of joking.

-But I assure you we saw him, he was right there - Tom insisted. -

-Would not it be that they have confused the place?" Asked the other policeman who seemed more understanding. - Being here at night, in a place that you did not know, that could be the explanation.

-It's here, I'm sure - said the convinced young woman despite everything. - They must have taken him...

-Of course - replied the other policeman sarcastically, adding with a mocking voice - this will be a conspiracy. -

- Listen, my friend - Tom told him, while he was already getting angry. - Do not talk to my wife like that! - That man was dead right here, I saw him too. And if it is not now it will be because they have taken it.

- No, you listen - the policeman replied sullenly. - This is a very serious thing, first you call us saying that a murder has been committed. It takes only ten minutes to return and now there is no corpse. We could arrest you for this. You are lying to the police and have turned us away from our usual surveillance.

-We saw him, really. - Cooan said, trying to reassure us. - Why would we lie to you? - We were here on our Honeymoon. What do we gain from this? You see, it all started with a kind of idol that man lost when he stumbled against us.

- With you? - The most cooperative policeman was surprised to add surprise. - Then you had already met the alleged murderer.

- Yes, well - she could answer that now she was confused. -

            Now Cooan regretted talking so much. It seemed that the more she wanted to clear things up, the more she messed them up, but it was too late to turn back so she told them what had happened.

-Lady! -  Cried the other agent. - What they should have done was go to the police from the beginning, they would have saved themselves trouble, and so would we. Have you got that statuette here?

She nodded, opening the purse, but to her surprise and horror the figurine was not there. Cooan would swear that she kept her inside when she left the bungalow, but perhaps with the rush did not close the zipper either or fell into the apartment. Tom looked at her in surprise.

-I do not know what could have happened. - The embarrassed girl said, at the disapproval glances of both agents.

The two policemen looked at each other in disbelief, that did not seem to convince them, the most hostile of them was about to say something when Tom noticed marks on the ground.

-Look there, that's footprints, and it looks like they've dragged something along. - Do you see it? -He pointed to the ground, partially illuminated by the faint light coming from the glare of the agents' lanterns. -

-That's right - said the kindly policeman who immediately asked his burly companion. - Look, focus there. –

Both agents shined their lanterns where Tom pointed them out, and they were able to verify the veracity of his words.

-That does not mean anything, Mc Garrett! -  Snapped the toughest cop. - Those prints may have been there for some time.

-Nothing to lose by following them, - said Tom. -

- We're wasting time - said this policeman irritably, - and that's enough.

-But if it is true that they have murdered someone and we do not check it properly it would be on us - interrupted his companion with a warning tone, - we would be in grave error. There may be nothing at last, but it is our duty to make sure.

-All right - replied the other reluctantly. -Let's follow those tracks. Let's hope we are not acting as idiots.

The two policemen with Tom and Cooan climbed into the jeep and slowly made their way along the beach. The tracks followed the sand until it ended with the first buds of grass that marked the border with the coast. The vehicle stopped and the policeman impatiently told them.

-Well, what now? ... There are no tracks to follow and from here the weeds begin, we cannot go with the jeep.

-Then we can continue on foot, - Tom suggested. -

-Hey, my friend! - replied the policeman rather irritated - we have already lost enough time, we will not leave the vehicle here to enter in that vegetation in search of who knows what. I recommend that you return to your hotel and leave this matter.

-And if they have taken the corpse through the forest? - Cooan insisted. - Please, you should check it out.

- We'll do it, but if we do not find anything we'll have to leave, we're the only patrol around here and we should inspect other parts of the island - explained the police more willing to help them. -

- Very well, - agreed Tom more conciliatorily now, - we'll help you look for ... let's go Cooan ...-

The four of them stepped into that thicket of scrub, they walked for fifteen minutes without seeing anything abnormal. At last the police decided to suspend the search.

-If you want, we can give you a ride to your hotel ...- Proposed the kindest of the policemen. -

-Thank you, - Cooan replied, - we really do not want to go back alone.

-And the next time they call the police, try to make it right, - growled the other officer irritably. -

            Tom was quite annoyed by the tone of that policeman but decided to keep quiet so as not to complicate matters. Since it was late and they have no desire to walk, it was better not to make the agent angrier. So after a few minutes the jeep left them at the doors of the hotel. They were both very tired and went to their apartment. There, indeed, was that statue. Cooan apologized to her husband as she held her in one of her hands with a thoughtful expression.

-I would have sworn I put it in my bag before I left.

-Well, Connie. Let it be, with the excitement you possibly forget it. - Tom said, adding something annoying now, especially for not being able to rent the boat. - I hope that tomorrow we can finally enjoy our trip. As if none of this had happened.

-C'mon darling! - Her wife encouraged him trying to dedramatize - I thought you have found this exciting.

-I've had enough emotions for the rest of my life before I come here, deep down I'm just a quiet farmer. - He could tell a slight smile. -

-Well, you're my farmer!  - Cooan smiled as she left the idol on the table and regaining good humor embraced her husband. - Now, if you feel like it, we're going to make small farm products.

Both threw themselves on the bed laughing and trying to undress as they forgot the tension of the day, then they noticed a slight vibration that was increasing. At one point the whole room trembled, they both hugged in fear, Tom got up and told his wife.

-An earthquake! - We have to get out of here, come on Connie! - He grabbed her hand and ran out. -

She took one last look at the room and thought she saw the idol shimmer green. But she could not be sure about it anymore as Tom dragged her out of the room. When they went out the earthquake seemed to stop. When they made sure that there seemed no danger they re-entered and Cooan asked her husband.

-What was that?

-I think it must have been a seismic tremor ... its normal, these islands are in places with volcanic activity. An underwater eruption may have caused it. We should ask. There may be a tsunami alert.

She nodded. Although, after knocking on the door of the reception desk and informing him of what had happened, the man shrugged his shoulders.

-We have not noticed anything here. And no guest has come to say that something similar has happened to him.

So after allowing a few minutes to make sure that nothing happened the couple returned to their bungalow. Once they entered Cooan looked at that idol and thought she remembered.

-On leaving I thought the statue was shining,- she confessed, pointing to the figurine that now seemed nothing abnormal, was still on the table as they left. - In a green color.

-It would have been your imagination ... the lights were moving and reflected on it - Tom replied with his classic clarifying tone that this time convinced his wife. - Come on, let's go to sleep, with all this mess I have been taken away from the desire of ..., you know, that. -  He added rather annoyed. -

The same thing happened to her so that they fell asleep at last, and at dawn the next day they woke up ready to solve that enigma.

-Come on Connie, it's time to get up, - Tom snapped as she tugged it gently.-

-It is a pity. I am so comfortable in bed - the girl yawned. - But you're right. - She conceded and when she got up the first thing the girl did was look at her bedside table, she was afraid that the idol would have disappeared but it was still there, just as she had left it last night. - Good thing, she's still there - sighed visibly relieved -...

-Of course it’s still there - her husband said in a slightly burlesque tone. - Who do you think it was going to take it? -

- I do not care about anything, since yesterday, I think anything is possible. - She replied, though now she felt a little silly to have harbored such fears. -

-We're going to solve all this, you'll see how he'll have a rational explanation, - Tom argued with his usual pragmatism. - Honey, let's have breakfast.

They both left their apartment. This time Cooan made sure to take the statuette. After arriving at a nearby coffee shop they asked for a hearty breakfast. They were about to start it when three locally-looking guys approached them, one took Tom's plate and said it in a rather inconsiderate tone.

-This is a lot for you. - Haole. I think I'll have to help...

-No need, mahalo ...- he replied in the native language, clarifying later. - Thank you very much, I really have a lot of appetite - Tom replied, retaining his calm and ironic tone. -

- I think the same. For you it's a lot, - said another, who took the orange juice from Cooan. - You're biting off more than you can swallow. -

-Listen, please, let us have breakfast in peace - she said with all her best manners. -

- Do not worry baby - said another with slyness. - You do not have to continue with this loser, you have us. We are real men.

-You're a bigmouth, man, - the boy replied with a half-smile that his wife did not like, for she presaged that her husband was starting to get very angry. - Have you ever been taught manners at home?

- Take it easy, Tom - she said rather uneasily -

- What a fear! - Said another, adding with a sneer, - the baby is going to be angry...

-I'm going to have to break your face,- replied Tom, making an effort to sound calm, - unless you get out of here, clowns, and let us have breakfast in peace.

-You will not say that outside ... haole - threatened the third individual.-

-No, I'm warning you here. Outside I will give you a beating. - Answered Tom adding in acid tone. - You are only three packs, enormous yes, but no brain.

-Now you're going to find out who have the brain, you stupid! -  One of them furious replied, throwing Tom a fist.-

This one blocked the attack and retorted with an elbow to the face of his opponent that managed to stun him, then he went on the attack kicking the knees of the other two. Taking advantage of the fact that they were all aching from the blows he and Cooan hurried out of there, pursued by these individuals once they recovered. To their misfortune they came to a dead end by a high stone wall and those guys blocked their way approaching with a badly smiles.

-Now you see, - one of the men threatened. - We're going to crush you!

- I would not be so sure - Tom replied, then whispered to his wife. - Are you ready?

-Yes, I'm ready, I'll have your back. - She nodded decisively. -

The individuals began their attack but between Tom and Cooan were able to deal with them easily. The boy successfully blocked the clumsy kick of one of these individuals using his leg to push and knock down from one punch to another. She in turn threw a kick to the chest of the rest that knocked him down. Although these guys tried to attack, they were not fast enough to hit them. It was clear that their training in the fight made them far superior. In the end, their attackers fled without warning before escaping.

-That idol is not for the profane to have, you will pay dearly.

Once their aggressors were lost in the distance Tom said between gasps to catch the air.

- Well, at least we're fine, but if we continue this way all the island's fanatical locals will throw themselves at us. I do not know what to think about that damn idol anymore. I begin to believe that it must really be important.

-We have to find out why everyone wants to take it away. - Cooan agreed. - Before anything happens to us, but who could we ask? ... I dare not go to the police again.

-I have no idea Connie, all I know is that we should leave that statuette before it creates us more trouble.

-No, not a good idea, - she said surprisingly, clinging to the idol. - No, we should not turn it in. Surely they would follow after us anyway.

- But what's so interesting about it now? -  Her husband wondered as he reached out to try to grasp that statue, but he was surprised that his wife had taken it away from him. -

-I'll take good care of him, do not worry, - she said rather abruptly. -

Tom was puzzled, it seemed a strange reaction. However  Cooan smiled immediately at him as if she wanted to apologize for that foolish outburst and he decided not to insist ,on changing the subject to ask his wife.

-Lets go to the bungalow, honey, see if we can spend some time on the beach.

The girl seemed to welcome the proposal more calmly but Tom missed something in the look of his wife. Her eyes seemed to give off a strange glow. The boy blamed it on the reflection of the sun. He let it be and finally came to the beach without any setback, there Cooan seemed to be as always. Even more affectionate than usual, when she reminded him of his desire to rent a boat.

-It's true, - he said, - that I've got all this mess and I did not remember,- he said, feeling more cheerful. - We're going to the harbor right now, and this time I hope we do not run into any weird people.

And his wish was fulfilled, for this time there were no incidents. Once they were at the port, Tom asked the owner of the rental boats, an island chubby individual, how much for renting a boat. He took a few moments to respond.

-I can rent that one from there, I hope you like it. - He pointed to a magnificent three- masted sailing ship. -

-It's perfect, - answered the enthusiastic boy, - I like it, and how much do you want for it?

-About five hundred dollars an hour, sir. He replied with some reluctance, leaving Tom open-mouthed. -

-It's too much for us, I'm afraid I cannot afford it so much, - said the boy, quite impressed. -

-You can rent a cheaper one, - the man replied again with the same reluctance. -

-Yes, - Tom was quite disappointed but there was no other solution. – I´ll see which has...

Then Cooan intervened, addressing the man in a very confident tone.

-You could leave it to us cheaper. My husband and I would very much like to sail on that boat. Please. - She asked him in a voice, in Tom's judgment, excessively mellow. -

-I cannot miss, I'm sorry, it's a very expensive ship and I have to take advantage of it. - Opposed that guy. –

-Maybe I'd better look at other ships around here. - Insisted the boy wanting to end the matter as soon as possible.-

And as her husband walked a few yards to examine other sailboats Cooan came closer to the owner of the boats. The girl touched the idol with one hand and it seemed that this gave her an unknown strength that prompted her to say.

-I'm sure that if I ask you, you will not be able to refuse. - And then he stared into the eyes of the man who began to stammer. -

-Well ... maybe I've been a little rushed, I could give you a discount. - How about four hundred and fifty an hour?

-Do not be such a miser, - she replied confidently, declaring in a convinced tone, - that ship costs no more than a hundred.

-Are you crazy? - The man said almost telling it to himself, - that does not even give you a chance to climb into it.-

-Are you sure? - She questioned him and in doing so now the tone of the girl sounded quite threatening, she showed a part of the idol to the man, it shone with a greenish tone...

When he saw that he blanched in terror, trembling, and in a choked voice he could say as he walked away from Cooan stumbling over the dock screaming.

-Do it, do what you want with the ship, but stay away from me!

Tom was surprised by that shout, he returned quickly from looking at the other boats. He tried to talk to the man but he ran out of there. Cooan smiled back at her husband keeping the idol, but that was a mischievous smile. Anyway the boy could not see it. Nor had he been able to witness closely what had happened between that man and his wife, who, turning to him, was completely normal and said in a cheerful tone.

-All has been settled honey. That man has been very kind, we can leave.

-I do not understand - Tom replied, looking at his wife wide-eyed. - What happened to him? -  He was scared, what did you do to him to be like this?

-Me? Nothing - Cooan’s face expressed surprise when he answered. - I only asked him to lower the price. But stop worrying Tom, did not you want to sail on this boat? Well, we have it, you should rejoice - She smiled with a satisfied expression to his husband as if that were the most natural thing in the world. - Come on!  He had surely thought that, for us being tourists, He could increase the price but I told him that I would speak with the authorities.

- Yes, that should be. You're right, - he sighed, not understanding but feeling happy deep inside for that bargain - we're going to leave now...

Both got on the boat and released moorings, the sea was calm, the sunset sun reflected in quite calm waters. The boy was steering the rudder with ease, he looked like an accomplished navigator. She sat on the deck letting her legs hang so the water would cool them.

-Be careful, Cooan, there are many sharks in these waters, - Tom warned, almost more in jest than anything else-

-Do not worry, - she said without seeming frightened, asserting with complete confidence, - nothing will happen to me.

Her husband was surprised by this confidence but did not give more importance to the matter. They sailed for an entire hour traveling the waters, they reached a point where they could not see the coast anymore. Tom decided that it was time to go back, but Cooan asked him to sail out to sea for a few more minutes.

-Leave me the helm, I'd like to take it a little, - she asked with almost enthusiasm as a little girl. -

-Of course - said her husband amused by the look of childish desire on his wife´s face, but added something more serious - but only for a little while, eh? We have to go back.

-Sweetheart, it will only be a moment,- Cooan smiled with a strange twinkle in her eyes as she took charge of the rudder with great skill, which also surprised the boy, who, of course, did not expect that. - We'll get there soon ...- She whispered without being heard.

After a few minutes in which he delighted watching his wife at the controls of the boat Tom decided that it was already quite late and approached the young woman to ask him to return the helm, but she refused with a smile while saying.

-It does not need honey. Look, there's the island right there, I can take the boat to the port.

In fact, land was visible not far from its position. Tom could not understand, it must have taken at least an hour to return, perhaps he had gone wrong or navigated in circles. The truth is that he had to admit that Cooan was a much better sailor than he was. At last they seemed to approach a great beach. It was a part of the island that the boy certainly did not recognize and put that suspicion in the knowledge of his wife.

-I think this area is not the port area. We should do cabotage until we find her, Connie.

-I know what I'm doing, - was her now dry response that did not even flinch at the helm. - It's here.

-But what do you want?  - He was surprised, more and more alarmed by these abrupt changes of character. - Here we cannot be, if we keep coming closer we will run aground, do not be a girl give me the helm! - He asked for it more forcefully now. -

 She ignored him completely and the boy then, with his patience exhausted, tried to take the helm but the girl pushed him away with a strong enough. When he recoiled and wanted to come and ask her why she had done that, her gaze frightened him, it was not at all like the Cooan he knew.

-What's happening to you? Have you lost your mind? Tom asked, stunned and very worried. - It's for that idol, right? He seemed to guess by urging his wife. - You must throw it overboard.

And as she seemed almost in a trance and still not paying the slightest attention, Tom tried to take the idol to Cooan but she, without a second thought, struck him with a beam of energy while glowed with an intense green glow. The young man fell to the floor of the boat between surprised, frightened and confused. Then he saw them approach a canoe with several natives. They rowed together at one end and another on that primitive vessel, which at one point reached the ship. These individuals boarded and imprisoned the boy. They spoke to each other in an unknown language and then turned to Cooan in the same language. Tom was surprised when she seemed to understand them and took the idol out of her clothes, exposing it to them. Suddenly all the natives, even those who held the boy, who let go of him, knelt before her looking at the ground and then fell down. They rose and held their captive again, who was paralyzed by surprise and disbelief, or perhaps something alien or unknown which prevented him from move. Then they climbed the canoe. Cooan went up by herself and the natives took them to shore. As soon as she arrived, she was expected by an entire tribe, apparently decorated for a celebration. The same scene of submission was repeated when the young woman showed the idol. Then she made her way through the crowd to a kind of altar, where she deposited the little statue to be surrounded by a group of women. She was stripped and dressed in native clothing while two people husks dragged Tom into a wooden cage. They ignored his shouts of protest and threat and left him there.

-What are you going to do to us? What happens to my wife? Do not you speak my language? Bloody sons of bitches!

He screamed angrily as he tried to break the bars, but they were more resilient than they seemed. When Tom calmed down, at the uselessness of his cries, he heard a voice, looked back he saw another cage. There was a middle-aged man.

-My disciple warned you, he told you to return the idol. This was inevitable. - He sentenced. -

-What is happening here? Who are you?- Tom asked, not out of his astonishment. -

-Just a priest.- That does not matter now ... - His interlocutor said.-

- And that individual that came to us?- Asked the young man in amazement.-

-I have already told you. My apprentice, "said the man.

As he saw that  he was not going to get much information, the concerned boy changed the subject and asked.

 -Why does my wife act like this?-

-She has been subjugated by the evil power of the statuette. It is something diabolical, as my disciple already told you. It  is able to awake the darker side of each of us.

-But nothing has happened to me, I do not understand.

-The statuette chooses the weakest person or person who has had misconduct or a greater relationship with the forces of darkness in the past. If at any time you have served the forces of evil you cannot resist their power.

-It's as if that think owns you,- the now horrified Tom deduced.-

-Something like that, if your wife was a servant of the power of evil, she will be unconsciously attracted to the idol, it will awaken that part of herself that she believed extinguished.

-How can we free her? Removing the statue, right?- Said Tom.-

-Yes, but you must not worry about that, she has already served their interests, the same evil power that controls her will release her soon

-Goodness! That is good to know - Sighed the boy much more relieved.-

But the man shook his head and looked very worried to answer in a low tone.

-Do not rejoice, for that is much worse. She is still useful, when released from the power of the statue your wife will regain her consciousness and she will be the woman you know, but then, she will be sacrificed.

That horrible revelation  made Tom open his mouth in horror. He could scarcely exclaim.

-No, that cannot be! , We have to prevent it. We have to get out of here.

-That will not be easy, we must wait until nightfall.

-And what if they sacrifice her in the meantime?-  The boy feared. -

-They cannot do it until the new day dawns. Calm down, as long as that time comes they will treat her  like a princess. In addition, it will not be here where they do it but at the top of the volcano. -He pointed far away, there, high up there was a large summit that ended in a huge crater.-

-But how will we free ourselves?- Said Tom, - these bars are very resilient.

-Leave it to me. - The man smiled for the first time to add in a more confident voice. - Do not worry about anything else and rest until the night.

-I would like you to tell me what the hell is going on here and who you are.- His interlocutor asked him that he would not calm down so easily. -

-I told you, a priest ...- It was the elusive response he received. -

-I do not know why, but I think you can tell me a lot more,- Tom said, scrutinizing this guy with an inquiring look. -

-I see you're smart, that's fine. I will tell you. I am one of the custodian priests of the great fire God. That evil idol was kept in a sacred chamber, so it could not hurt anyone, but one night an ambitious priest who claimed to be king of the village stole it for his evil purposes. He managed to corrupt the hearts of many people who followed him. We were able to expel them from our island by appealing to our gods and we managed to recover that idol. They fled here, but soon they reorganized and tried to recover that damn statuette. Together with one of my disciples I had to flee with her to put her out of reach. To secure our possibilities I gave it to my apprentice and we separated. But he was tracked down and pursued. When he met you for the first time, he warned you to give it back. You should have listened to him.

-What would I know?- Tom defended himself, justifying himself. - I thought he was a thief.

-Unfortunately, I came too late. He lost his life when he wanted to join you to recover it. They caught me and brought me here. I was more useful to them alive. And now we are in a minority, it would be a miracle that we could get out of here alive. - His counterpart said in a tone that was not optimistic.-

-Damn it!- The boy mumbled shaking with rage. - If any of my friends were here, They would end all those guys in a moment. They have enormous strength, but I'm just an ordinary human.

-Well, you do not have any of your friends here,- the priest replied calmly, "so you must make the best of yourself if you want to save yourself and rescue the person you love. Remember you have a great latent force within you. You must know how to take advantage of it. Trust yourself.

-I will, I can fight, even if I'm not a super warrior or superhuman. But, if only I had my sword here. -He lamented remembering his magnificent katana. -

-You will not need any sword.- Said the priest - In fact the only weapons you need are already with you. The love you feel for your wife and the very power you possess within you.

-Power?- Inquired the stunned boy.- What power?

-You've faced the forces of evil before. Am I wrong?-  His companion asked.-

-How do you know that?...

-I have some skills to see in people's hearts. And you have a virtuoso, - the priest told him, trying to cheer him up. - Come on, be patient, the darkest hour is just before dawn. And now, it is going to be darker…

In fact, the sun was setting on the horizon and the shadows of the great mountain began to lengthen. In a few minutes the penumbra would cover the whole island. A few yards away, a group of natives armed with spears and long curved knives lit a fire, apparently to stand guard there. Tom waited anxiously for the sunset. At last the last reflections of the evening were losing. The darkness, only broken by the glow of the fire, had been thrown over them.

-Now what?- The boy asked between anxious and worried. - It's night time but these guys are glued to us and do not take our eyes off.

-You wait and see,- said his captive companion confidently. -

The priest took a small pouch out of his clothes and made his way to the guardians with shouts and interpellations in his mother tongue with which he drew his attention. They were four that approached to them, then threw the bag to the bonfire, the contact with the flames occurred an explosion and bursts of light emerged from there as if they were fireworks. The natives, visibly bewildered, ran to cover themselves.

-It's time to escape,- the priest said to a startled Tom. - Come on!-  With amazing ease, he manipulated the cage to open it saying. Let's get out of here! - He paused as he opened the stunned boy. -

Both the young man and the mysterious individual ran out of their cages sheltered by the confusion of these fireworks. They were covered in the thicket shortly before they ceased and the fire crackled normally.

-Very good. We have come out of the cages, but now these guys will look for us, and I do not think that here we find many places to hide. - The boy stated in a voice tone markedly pessimistic.

-Leave that to me,- the priest reassured him with a confident tone, - I will attract their attention, you must rescue your wife and retrieve the idol.- Come on, hurry up! We do not have much time left.

-But if it's just evening,- said the surprised boy, pleading more confidently, - we still have several hours.

-I am afraid young friend that here the time does not pass just like in your world .- Said man enigmatically .-

-What are you talking about? This is not Mars,- said Tom, who checked his wristwatch and watched in amazement as it was after four in the morning. - This is not possible. He shook his head. What happened?"

-Do not ask questions and do what I told you,- said the mysterious guy, encouraged him. - Come on, have courage and good luck.

The alluded decided to do what that man told him, if he was in that situation was because he had not trusted him before, so he was not going to make the same mistake twice. He stepped out of the vegetation while the priest shouted on his tongue to entice the guards. The improvised plan worked and Tom was able to advance along a path that led to the village, apparently there was no one. He came to a dimly lit hut inside, cautiously peered out a window and saw his wife sitting in a chair and motionless, the girl almost looked like a statue. Noticing that no one was around, he entered the hut and tried to talk to Cooan.

-Honey, are you okay? Come on, we have to get out of here.

She did not move, she seemed hypnotized, her eyes were looking nowhere and lacking in brightness.

-Come on Connie, wake up!- Snapped a desperate Tom, who shook her but that was no use, then heard a noise behind him. Quickly he hid, indeed, someone entered the hut, were two women who approached to his wife.

To the surprise of the boy when arriving these strangers next to her Cooan rose, the women undressed and bathed her body with oils that they brought in basins. Then they put a cane skirt and a garland of white flowers on her breasts. They also removed her pendant of justiciera leaving it on a small table. She was still standing but still, letting herself be done, then the women left the room and she followed. Tom decided to go after them at a distance to see where they would take his wife, not before taking the stone of  the justice ...

-Let's go there. I hope everything goes well .- He said trying to give himself encouragement .-

After following them for a few minutes hiding among the vegetation, he saw them ascend a tortuous path that led to the crater of that mountain. He looked at his watch again, it was almost six. Tom did not understand what was happening there in time, but it was not the time to ask. Climbing up the path he climbed the trail until he could hide behind rocks only a few feet away, it seemed that no one had seen him, but he was wrong. Suddenly he heard shouts in the native language and saw a pair of them, armed with spears, at him.

-Shit! - He mumbled and he had no choice but to defend himself.-

He came out of hiding decisively and attacked these two men. Taking them by surprise he was able to knock out one of them with a single blow, while avoiding the other's attacks. The boy got hold of the other guy's spear and was able to fight. With his mastery of martial techniques he immediately got rid of his adversary with a succession of hits to key points to make him unconscious. So, armed with that spear, he hurried toward Cooan, who laid in a kind of ritual bed. His wife was still in a trance. She was surrounded by flowers and with those two women who were impassive in the presence of Tom. Beyond the edge of the crater stood a sort of altar built of reed and wood, and upon it was a much larger version of that idol, presiding over the scene. Two men dressed in ritual masks and feathers and a multitude of natives crowded into a small smooth surface, witnessed the scene also without an apparent willingness to intervene.

-Connie, can you hear me? Tom shouted as he gasped at the struggle. - You have to wake up!

Then she seemed to understand him and got up, but in a very rigid way, she walked slowly toward him and stood a couple of meters. Tom felt something was not right. Her face seemed absent. Without a word she raised one of her hands and threw a kind of black ray at him, sending him to the ground as he told him.

- A 'ole. Aloha ... haole.

-I am Tom. Cooan !! Connie, honey, it's me, Tom! You must free yourself from the evil power of that idol,- he shouted as he rose up hurt by the blow. -

But the girl approached him smiling in amusement, that was an evil smile, her eyes were opaque. She looked like a puppet at the mercy of evil forces. Then she materialized two balls of fire in both hands and pointed at her husband. He managed to  avoid them by being himself thrown on the ground before the energy balls hit him and he was lucky, these spheres impacted the mountain causing a great destruction in the  rock.

-If you would hit me I would have been disintegrated, are you crazy? -Tom shrieked visibly agitated. -

But it was clear that this woman was not Cooan, at least not the one he knew. Her consciousness was buried by that influence that had taken control of her body. Even regretting it, he had no choice but to make her pointless before she broke up with him. He stood up ready to attack when he saw that his wife seemed to stagger. Then he listened to the priest beside him, had arrived without warning him.

-The effect of the idol begins to disappear. That means they're going to sacrifice it right away, we must act now! - He urged vehemently. -

Cooan stumbled back down on the altar and closed her eyes, then the two men and the natives moved, surrounded her beginning to sing chants. The priest interrupted them in chanting another litany of what seemed like prayers, which infuriated the group. Immediately a pair of natives rushed against him but he repelled them with a kind of energy that threw them to the ground.

-Come on, boy!-  He shouted to Tom.-  Get your wife out of there.

            Without a moment's hesitation he threw himself through a group of Indians who were in a state close to the trance. One of the masked individuals raised a knife pointing at Cooan's belly, then opened the woman opened her eyes, showing by her gaze that now  she was the usual girl.

-What am I doing here? - Was the first thing she said. But when she saw the scene ahead, she cried out in fear. - What is happening? – What are you trying to do? Help! Somebody help me, Tom, where are you?

-Here I am, my love,- he shouted as he made his way through the crowd of natives who were trying to catch him.-

-That is would I like but I cannot move,- she shrieked desperately as the native by her side was ready to nail the knife in her raising his sight to the sky and looking at the crater of the volcano. -

-The idol, you must tear down the idol!- Cried the priest to Tom, - All power flows from him!

The boy did not think it twice, he only had a few seconds, grabbed a nearby stone and threw it against a native who blocked his way. Then he jumped towards the idol, kicking him with a karate kick that knocked him down from his pedestal. The figure was next to the crater. The native of the knife and his companions seemed to also come out of a kind of trance and looked terrified there. Then Cooan noticed that she could move, with a feline agility rose from that slab and ran to her husband. The natives, who now seemed to be recovered from the surprise, looked at them with an expression of hatred and anger, surrounded them and seemed to attack the couple at any moment.

-Get and use this, Connie! - Tom urged, tossing the necklace with the stone he kept for his wife. - Otherwise we're lost.

She caught it at once and put it on immediately invoking her transformation without losing a second.

-Pure heart of fire, give me the power!

To the astonishment of all the natives Cooan was transformed into the Lady of Fire. Then with her bow in her hand, she threw a pair of incendiary arrows at the altar. To the amazement of the marriage, all the natives immediately knelt before her.

-They must have believed you were the reincarnation of the God of the volcano,- Tom guessed, staring at the stunned scene. -

-Yes,- said the priest, who immediately urged them, and this time with concern, - now you must throw the figure of the evil idol into the heart of it and escape from here.

-I will never allow it! - They heard a lugubrious voice behind them.-

It belonged to a man dressed in gold necklaces and wreaths of black flowers. He had a rod in his right hand, and his gaze seemed to release fire when he threatened them. With hatred and anger.

-You will die if you dare to profane this sacred ceremony!

-You're the one who's going to die." Your time and mine are already exhausted and it is useless for you to cling to the past. If I have to finish you for you to understand, I will, - said the priest, facing him. -

-Ha, ha,- said the man with a tone of madness, - you are not match to my power ...

-We'll see about that,- his rival replied defiantly as he repeated the stunned couple. - Throw that idol to the volcano and go, soon!

Then the man threw a dark beam of energy against him, which the priest repelled with a golden color. It started a great fight between magic powers. Tom repeated the command to his wife as they both stared in amazement at that mystical combat.

-Come on Connie! Do what he says, throw that idol into the volcano. Before it was too late.

-It will be a pleasure,- she said, pointing her bow at the little statue that rested on that altar, next to the remains of the larger one that her husband overthrew.-

            The natives were about to retrieve it, but the arrow that she fired managed to reach it by plunging it into the crater.

- I got it! At last, it's over! -She exclaimed with a shout of joy jumping with her arms extended upward.-

-No damn!

Howled that sorcerer who seemed to lose all his power at once. Thus it was easy for the priest to defeat him and throw him with one of his golden rays also into the volcano.

- We have won! - exclaimed Tom, also exulting with joy, - we have succeeded! -

But that was not so simple, after a few seconds the earth began to tremble, with more and more violence and from the depth of the crater came a deafening roar. Tom understood what would happen in a few moments. Screaming with patent horror.

-The volcano is going to explode, we must flee from here!

-Already with speed, the mountain God is going to give vent to his anger! Run! - The priest ordered them. -

-He will not give us time,- cried the frightened boy.

-Now is when you must trust in your inner strength. Look inside you. – That man answered.-

The young couple did not make him to repeat the advice. They hurried down the volcano on that way. The people who only moments ago seemed their mortal enemies were ignoring them now dispersing panicking in all directions. After a few minutes the couple had reached the foot of the mountain, which suddenly released their fury. The eruption began by throwing tons of rock into the atmosphere. Both of them hurried to the beach.

-I do not get it. - Cooan could say between panting for the race. - From what I read about these islands it is assumed that the Hawaiian type volcanoes do not explode, the lava leaves in a viscous plan.

-You'll find out later. Now run! - urged her husband giving a good pinch on the back to which his astonished wife responded with a ... -

-Auu! Tom. That hurt me.

-That's a little pay back for the ray and the balls! - He replied even between gasps, although his wife looked at him with an expression of bewilderment, without understanding what he could refer. - I'll explain later ...

She looked at him again, though there was no way to ask. They both got as fast as they could. However, the torrent of lava that sprang from the crater was approaching with great speed. Tom then thought he knew what that individual had referred to. He paused a moment before the surprise mixed with horror of his wife.

-Come on, Tom! Do not stop now.

-I have to stop that lava or we will not have time to run away,- he replied.

-But how are you going to stop that?  - She exclaimed her frightened compatriot. - Have you gone mad?

The boy remembered. A few months ago, when Roy and the rest had trained a little with him. Of course he was not up to the others, but he could boast of overcoming the abilities of an ordinary human. His friend one day, talking about the powers he had, commented to him.

- According to my master Son Goku, a human with mental capacity and martial discipline could dominate the Vital Wave. Or Kamehameha blast.

-The vital wave?- The boy was surprised, affirming. - That burst of energy that you and Sapphire use.

Roy said cheerfully while nodding.

-We're all capable of using it. Our teacher taught us very well. And I think you would be able to concentrate too. The secret is that your inner strength flows.

Tom nodded, then did not do it, but now he felt something. He heard the voice of that priest who rang in his head ...

-Think of our mythical king. He will give you the power. You are in his domain, commend him to him ...

And after closing his eyes, ceasing to hear the anguished calls of Cooan to run, the boy put both hands on his right hip and repeated as he concentrated ...

-Kame ha haaaaa .. Yaa! ...

To his own surprise and astonishment of his wife, a blast of bluish energy spurted from his hands toward the lava of the volcano. In a matter of tenths of a second, he caught up with her and stopped her, even backing her up a few feet. However, the boy ran out of breath within a few seconds. That torrent of fire then continued its advance so inexorably.

-Let's go, Tom!" - Cooan impelled him pulling of one of its arms.-

Now he did not make himself beg and alongside his wife ran with all his might. However, to their astonishment, upon arriving at the beach the priest was in front of them. They did not know how he had made it to get there before them but the truth is that he was there, raising his arms to the sky seemed to repel the innumerable boulders that fell from the heights. Then he smiled at them, begging for them.

-Hurry up. You must escape from here. I will protect you as much as possible. But I will not last very long.

-And you? What's going to happen to you? - Tom asked aloud trying to make himself understood between the roar of the explosion. -

-I belong to this place, do not worry about me.- He smiled enigmatically at the priest who urged them. - Save you quickly ...

- But. Who are you? – An stunned Cooan wanted to know.-

Although her husband, observing as now more in accordance with the theses of the volcanologists, a stream of lava began to descend fluently by the side of the mountain, did not wait for the retort of that man. The priest now turned his back and raised his arms to the sky as if in this way he could stop the fury of the eruption.

-Mahalo nui .- The young man said .-

- He mea iki.- Answered the alluded.-

-The wai kou inoa? Who are you? - The girl wanted to know, that to her own surprise, she remembered still bits of that language.-

- Aloha - It was the only answer she received from that strange individual.-

  And without further ado, Tom tugged on an arm of his wife and made her run with him to a nearby canoe from the ones they had used to bring them.

-Come on! We have to hurry. Row Connie! - He ordered that in turn he made another oar.-

She nodded. The marriage after rising quickly to that boat did not lose even a second. They rowed as possessed. At first uncoordinated by the nerves with which the canoe did not move much of the shore. The priest from the distance urged them to walk away. The rain of burning stones had retreated, but in its place a dense mantle of lava was flowing out of the crater of the volcano, which was advancing very rapidly towards the coast, now preceded by a cloud of what looked like smoke, gas, and ash.

-That's a pyroclastic flow! - He shouted horrified, sentencing. - If it reaches us it will incinerate us. - Let me row me Cooan. -

She obeyed immediately, the terror reflected on her face as she witnessed how that wave of destruction made its way from the island devastating anything, trees, or other vegetation that it encountered in its path. Finally, as soon as Tom was able to paddle with both oars and his wife, still as  Justiciera, threw a beam of energy as an extra propulsion. Luckily that made them acquire speed and the canoe was in the sea on its way towards the boat that they rented. Fortunately the vessel was still drifting about five hundred yards from the beach and the wind blew that deadly smoke away from the canoe's path. In the distance they could distinguish the glow of the fire from the lava that followed its advance. Then there was a growing noise. The island they had left behind seemed close to sinking. The boy was hurrying as fast as he could but did not seem to get far enough forward. Cooan holding on to the boat helped him by throwing other beams of energy that drove them faster

-Oh, Thank God.- He said totally relief.-

At last they reached the ship and went up, Tom took the anchor and his wife unfolded the sails. From the distance they could still see the priest on a cliff surrounded by a sea of ​​lava. He seemed to look at them and smile, but they could not tell from the distance. At that moment, a wind out of nowhere swelled its sails and the ship quickly moved away. Between the dawn lights they could hear the roar of the lava coming into contact with the evaporating ocean water. Soon a dense fog from the steam covered the island that disappeared from their eyes. At last they heard a thunderous explosion. The shock wave shook the ship that miraculously drove tremendous waves that came from where the island had been. Little by little the sea seemed to calm down, and both could breathe in relief, though soaked and breathless.

-I was so scared I did not even remember to get dizzy,- Cooan declared between a nervous laughter of relief. -

- My love. Thank God! I'm so glad to see you again, - Tom said, holding the girl's hands in his. -

-What do you mean? - She wanted to know visibly surprised. -

-Do not you remember?-  Her husband asked with a surprised face to tell her even in a tone of reproach. - You almost killed me!

-Who… me?-  Cooan demanded in her turn, shaking her head to reply visibly confused. - I just remember that we went out on this ship and after I found myself lying on an altar with a guy who wanted to kill me with a knife. And who was that other man who helped us?

- I did not even ask for his name,- her husband admitted in distress, - and that he sacrificed himself for us.

-We must report what has happened,- said the young woman adding - although that explosion must have been felt for many miles.

-Look,- he pointed to the horizon, interrupting his wife, - it's a ship.

A short distance from them they saw a sea search vessel. She looked like one of the Coast Guard, she wore an American flag. Tom waved at them and they both shouted as loud as they could. Fortune smiled at them, for the ship flashed with a spotlight on its deck and headed towards them. After a few minutes she approached them and a group of officers went up to their boat.

-The owner of this yacht was worried,- one of them told them. - He rented the boat for a couple of hours and five of them left.-

-It's a long story,- Tom said, trying to make something out. - We got disoriented and we've been on a nearby island.

-An island?- Another of the surprised officers said, incredulously. - There is no island here, except the one you left, in a radius of three hundred miles.

-It cannot be!" Cooan objected, if we left there an hour ago. A volcano exploded and we escaped with a miracle, You have had to hear it.

-But what does the lady say?-  Another officer replied with a surprised accent in his voice. - There is no volcanic activity around here. At least for two hundred years ago.

-Listen, my wife is telling you the truth,- the boy said. - If it was not for a priest who protected us, we would not have been here now.- Then, before the strangeness of these officers, the boy told them that weird story in the best way he could to conclude. - I assure you that we are not crazy or trying to pulling your leg. This is not a joke.

The officers looked at each other in disbelief, Tom thought they would not believe him, but to their astonishment one of them confessed to him and his wife.

-There's a story from over two centuries ago. It speaks of a volcanic eruption that completely destroyed an island sanctuary. There they practiced evil rituals. It is said that a priest expert in white magic ended those rites invoking the spirit of the volcano and defeated the evil sorcerer who tried to sow evil. The natives tell that he received the help of a noble and courageous couple of foreigners. According to them that was what made the island explode and buried it forever beneath the ocean. But it is only a legend. Anyway, it is not you the only ones who say that you have seen or heard strange things passing through this area. Although no one ever claimed to have seen any island.

After listening to the story, the  couple stared at each other in amazing disbelieved.

-Two hundred years,- she repeated, unable to believe him. - But that cannot be possible.

-Miss,- replied another of the coastguard, his tone resigned. - You went into the waters of the triangle. As we have already said. You cannot imagine how many strange stories the people who have gone through this place have told us. Even some disappeared and have never been seen again, you are among the fortunate few who have left here.

-Now we've gotten out of those waters as soon as possible -  another coastguard said. - If you want us to tow you to the port, we can do it, so you'll get there sooner.

Tom and Cooan looked at each other and they said to the surprised officers.

-No, thank you very much, we will return ourselves. Maybe it's the only chance to sail smoothly for us, before we leave.

-Very well,- an officer agreed, looking up at the sky and advised them, -but you'd better hurry because it looks like a storm is coming.

The sky had in fact had taken on a leaden gray color that filtered out some sunbeams that gave the seawater an opaque steel hue, like the camouflage color of the warships. The clouds had gradually covered the sky and that foreshadowed the impending storm, as well as the cool breeze that swayed the sails. The young newlyweds said farewell to the officers who returned to their boat. After a quick maneuver the patrol boat parted leaving them in the middle of the sea.

-We'd better hurry up, Tom,- Cooan suggested rather uneasily, - we'd just be in a storm.

-Do not worry, honey,-  he reassured her. - We'll have time, you'll see.

The boy set off after the wake of the Coast Guard, the breeze that was now a light wind swelled the sails, and the ship sailed through the water with speed. As if the vessel were a blade she was cutting the ocean waters. The waves were turning towards the ship. And among clouds, some rays of dusk sneaked through them giving a wide range of shades to sea water. The sun seemed to want to fight a lost battle before that concentration of clouds that threatened to cover it, but Tom and Cooan no longer worried about this. Embracing each other, they only enjoyed the great beauty of that vast expanse of sea and sky that took mutual contact away, on a remote horizon. The boy switched on the radio to locate their position, but instead of hearing the voice of the pilot from the port both heard a beautiful song in unknown language. That for some strange reason they could understand. At least in its deep meaning. It was as if someone thanked them ...

Ariadiamus late ariadiamus da

Ari a natus late adua

A-ra-va-re-e-va

A-ra-va-re-and you go

A-ra-va-re you-and you will

Ariadiamus late ariadiamus da

Ari a natus late adua

A-ra-va-re-e-va

A-ra-va-re-and you go

A-ra-va-re you-and you will

A-na-ma-na coo-le ra-we

A-na-ma-na co-le

A-na-ma-na coo-le ra-we a-ka-la ...

A-na-ma-na coo-le ra-we a-ka-la ........

Ah-ya-doo-ah-eh

A-na-ma-na coo-le ra-we a-ka-la

A-ya-doo-ah-eh ...

A-ya doo a-ye

A-ya doo a-ye

****

A-na-ma-na coo-le ra-we

A-na-ma-na co-le

A-na-ma-na coo-le ra-we a-ka-la ...

A-na-ma-na coo-le ra-we a-ka-la ........

Ah-ya-doo-ah-eh

A-na-ma-na coo-le ra-we a-ka-la

A-ya-doo-ah-eh ...

A-ya doo a-ye

A-ya doo a-ye

---

A-ri-a-di-a-la-la

A-ri-a-di-a-mus da

A-i-a na-tus la-te a-du-a.

A-ra-va-re-e-va

A-ra-va-re-and you go

A-ra-va-re you-and you will go to it.

A-na-ma-na coo-le ra-we

A-na-ma-na co-le

A-na-ma-na coo-le ra-we a-ka-la ...

A-na-ma-na coo-le ra-we a-ka-la ........

Ah-ya-doo-ah-eh

A-na-ma-na coo-le ra-we a-ka-la

A-ya-doo-ah-eh ...

A-ya doo a-ye

A-ya doo a-ye

Ya-ma-ma ya-ma-ya-ka-ya me-ma

A-ya-coo-ah-eh

Ya-ma-ma ya-ma-ya-ka-ya me-ma

A-ya-coo-ah-eh

Already ---- ka - ma me - ah

A-ya-coo-ah-eh

Already ---- ka - ma me - ah

(Adiemus, Karl Jenkins, author credit)

They listened intently to this tune, with the beautiful voice of a woman and children's choirs, who perhaps belonged to the inhabitants of that mysterious island, who knows. At the end, the two embraced looked towards the horizon ...

-It was not so bad in the end, was it, Connie?- Her husband whispered. - It was a very funny Honeymoon.

-Wait till we tell the others,- she smiled. -

-I think this could be our secret,- he suggested, adding a reflective pose, - and perhaps one day we could tell our grandchildren.

-Well, are not you running too much?- Replied the amused girl, without delaying to remind him with a big, mischievous smile. - To have grandchildren, we must first go for our children.

-And we'll take care of it when we get home, you'll see,- Tom smiled. -

-And why wait so long, if we can start now?- Cooan suggested in a honeyed voice. -

-We do not have much to reach port,- objected the somewhat embarrassed boy now. - It would be somewhat embarrassing if the ship crashed against the pier because you and I .... you understand me ...

- I'm willing to take the risk, if you are.. but of course, if you are so frightened by the idea ...- She replied, feigning a certain disappointment. -

Then her husband looked at her in astonishment, then in a moment his expression changed and he smiled mischievously. What the hell!

-We've come out of worse things, come on honey - he declared resolutely, wrapping his arms around Cooan as he kissed her. -

The two fell on the deck of the ship as she drew nearer and farther to the shore, leaving behind her that incipient storm and the mystery of those waters. Fortunately Tom and Cooan finished before they ran aground and were able to return without further news to their home. The rest of the Honeymoon passed without incident. With a visit to the boy's parents in Kansas to make Cooan better acquainted with her new family. They would soon return to their home and their lives. And so, after many, many years, they could effectively tell their children and grandchildren those surprising events in which they were involved in that unforgettable adventure, one more in its already long list.

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