FSE

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My Secret Girlfriend

(Is a Goddess)

Part 10

Wes waited in the office of the real estate agent. This was it, the final part in securing the property needed to build the shrine. He was nervous as he awaited whether or not his and Becky's offer would be accepted. The girls were already on their flight to Japan and the clock was ticking. Several other offers were being made, but theirs was cash, a potentially more tempting bargain chip.

Natalia sashayed her way back into the office, her hips swiveling under her almost too short mini skirt. The serval looked at him with her amber eyes, grinning as her teeth showed.

“They accepted the offer!" she announced.

“Oh my gods, that's a relief!" Wes sighed, throwing his head back, closing his eyes.

“They were more favorable to your use of the property and know there's a sense of urgency surrounding it's acquisition, so they told me to let you know you will be allowed to begin any preliminary work while the paperwork is handled," she said as she sat on her desk, her thighs on display as her short tail flipped about lazily behind her.

“That's great news. I'll get started this week," he said.

“Well, let's celebrate! How about some bubbly?" She sauntered over to a mini fridge, pulling out a split of sparkling wine and producing two plastic champagne glasses.

As she poured the glasses, her pose was almost model-like as Wes took in her feminine curves. Her blouse was open just enough to see some cleavage peeking out at the right moments, tantalizing flesh with just enough jiggle on her otherwise athletic frame. Her thighs were soft with underlying muscle giving her some definition.

“To new frontiers!" She raised her glass in a toast.

“To new frontiers!" Wes clinked glasses.

The two drained the glasses, setting them down. Wes felt emboldened to act. Life was short, afterall.

The rabbit stood up and standing in front of the serval, looked into her eyes. She leaned forward, her hands resting flat on the desk beside her, her bosom thrust forward, legs just barely apart, inviting the male.

Pulling her closer, Wes drew his body to hers before planting a heated kiss. Inhaling sharply through her nose, Wes could feel her pulse quicken as her tongue met his in illicit embrace. Moaning against his unexpected yet not uninvited move, the serval ripped her blouse open, a frilly white bra holding her globes. Her body now exposed further, he thought she was a perfect blend of Becky's taut, perfect athletic frame and Rei's softer, feminine form.

Feeling the heat from her body against his, Wes' length struggled from its confines for freedom. Her breath panted into his ear as he kissed down her neck, yanking down the bra straps from her shoulders.

“You know what you want, don't you," she purred in whispy breaths.

“I want your body, all of it," he growled, pulling her bra down from the front, her tits bouncing free.

Latching onto a hard, rosy peak, the buck sucked with an insatiable thirst, feeling the flesh in his mouth. The cat threw her head back, holding his head against her chest, savoring the bliss as lust began consuming her body with the same fervor as the rabbit.

The serval wrapped her thighs around the buck's waste, capturing her prey, ensuring his lewd confinement. Hardly straining against his imprisonment, he pressed further, feeling the heat from her entrance against his girth.

“I got you now. I hope your lovers don't mind you taking on a third," she purred with pure seduction, the words like honey in his ears.

“What they don't know…" he trailed off, ripping open the remaining buttons of her blouse as he kissed down the flesh of her stomach before yanking off her rubber band of a skirt.

Pulling her knees back, Natalia accented her curvy bottom as her petals blossomed forth ready for the buck's partaking. Her dew glistened on the rosy flesh between her thighs ready for Wes to lap at his will and her pleasure.

“Your pussy is so perfect," he groaned, licking his lips as he began suckling upon her jewel.

Holding his head against her womanhood, the serval cried out as Wes focused his tongue on her center of pleasure. Her honeyed liquor spilled upon his chin as he pleasured the cat, savoring her feminine taste.

“Fuck, I want you in me, now!" She grabbed his shoulders, pulling him against her.

Trying her best to kick off his pants, Wes took the hint as he hurriedly freed the lower half of his body. Standing naked in his muscular form, he presented a sight to the hungry cat before him as she bit her lip, stirring the lust between her thighs.

Pinning the serval against the mahogany desk, he expertly lined his tip against her aching pussy, teasing her with quick shallow jabs before sinking himself deep into her belly.

Natalia cried out in ecstasy as he spread her soaked walls with his long rabbit cock. Pulling her up, the cat clung to his shoulder as he rocked her core. The moment was almost silent as her face betrayed the bliss she gave into over and over again.

Her legs crossed around his back as she sat upright, Wes brought the cat to a screaming climax as he flooded her with his seed, claiming another lover.

Wes pulled out, as his remaining essence spilled out onto the serval's belly in pearly globs of lust. Natalia fell back, her hands propping herself up on the desk as she caught her breath.

“That… was… incredible…" she panted, her blonde hair in messy strands, accenting her spotted ears.

“Yes… that was hot…" Wes smiled, catching his own breath.

“I agree, you get an A for that performance. Well done," a familiar, unexpected voice sounded behind him.

Wes turned around and in shock, beheld a suddenly changed scene. A rotund, middle-aged mouse smiled, her arms folded looking approvingly upon the two. Behind her were school desks occupied by his friends and classmates who were applauding. In the front of the class sat Rei and Becky wearing school uniforms, complete with red plaid skirts, whistling and hooting at them.

“Mrs Washington? Where am I?" he asked, confused. The serval slowly put her clothes back on, now a uniform matching the fox and rabbit and took the empty seat next to them, opening a notebook.

“Ok, class. Now we have a fine example of a very virile male, who has now mated with three of our lovely girls," she said as she headed to the front of the class, the three girls beaming with pride.

Pressing her hands to his chest, the mouse looked up to the rabbit with a knowing look in her eyes. “Now, if you're up for it and would like to try an older woman, I could offer you extra credit…"

Wes' eyes popped open, the remnants of his dream playing out in his mind as it faded away. He laid in bed, processing what had happened as he slowly woke up. Taking a deep breath, he retained the major points of his nocturnal adventure as he felt his length rubbing against his pajamas. Pulling the blanket back, he saw a dark wet stain on the front as the sensation blocked any thought of retreat.

Not having either of the girls with him, Wes took matters into his own hands. The rabbit pulled his length past the waistband of his boxers, pre dripping from his tip. Thinking back to his dream, he began stroking his girth, sensitive from the vivid dream he had just experienced.

The rabbit began a slow buildup as he imagined further pumping himself into the serval from behind. He imagined the feel of his hips crashing into her shapely ass as he plummeted deep into her depths.

Without reasoning or warning, Natalia was replaced by his teacher squeaking with every thrust he gave. The sudden shift in thought sent him over the edge as his seed erupted, spilling out in thick ropes onto his undershirt, soaking the cotton material.

Panting as he felt the euphoria from his release, he thought back to the shift, “what was that all about?"

Gathering his thoughts, the rabbit's ear perked as he heard a buzz on the nightstand. Looking over, his phone was lit with a text message from Becky.

“Just landed in Tokyo, sooooo tired. H8 jet lag D:"

Wes typed out a response, “sorry you're so tired, I'm glad you two made it safe. Get some rest. Luvu!"

“Luvu2!"

The last message was followed up with a photo of a very lively-looking Rei and a very tired-looking Becky waiting in line at customs. Wes smiled as he put the phone away, knowing things were on the right track. Just as it played out in his dream, he and Becky got the property and were given permission to begin building the start of the shrine while all the legal and financials were worked out. It also helped that all they needed to help keep Rei was just a very simple shrine. Wes was ahead of the game and did his research. All that was left was for him to build and place it.

—————————————-

“Attention passengers, we are beginning to make our final descent into Tokyo Haneda airport. We ask that you place your trays in the upright position and begin turning off your devices. The local temperature is three degrees and clear skies. We gratefully thank you for flying our airline," the pilot announced.

Rei looked out the window as the plane banked to make its final approach. She couldn't believe the city below her lit up with more lights than she could fathom was the city of Tokyo, now a futuristic metropolis to her eyes. It had been some time since she was in Japan and she knew much had changed, yet seeing it before her from the sky was a small taste of what was in store for her. Becky craned her neck as best she could to take in as much as she could.

Despite having to wait until the middle of December to finally be able to travel, they felt confident things would go their way. The trip was mostly straightforward; they would meet Yuto and discuss anything they needed to know regarding their journey. Next, they were to meet Hana's relatives, prove Rei's divinity and discuss the shrine and dedication ceremony. Afterwards, they were to search for a relic for the shrine tied intrinsically to Rei. This last one was promising to prove problematic, since it was like finding a needle in a virtual haystack. However, they decided to search Rei's old village as a starting point.

“Have you been to Japan before?" Rei turned to ask Becky.

“Yeah, once," she replied, yawning as the jet lag began catching up with her.

“Did you have a good time?"

“Unfortunately, I didn't…"

“I'm sorry, what happened?" the fox asked with disappointment in her voice.

“Oh, it wasn't the people or anything like that. I was there as an assistant to a photographer when I was in school studying journalism. He basically treated me like his personal servant on top of maintaining his equipment, so I didn't really get to enjoy the trip at all," she said, yawning once again.

“That's unfortunate. I promise this trip will not go that way. Even though we're here for an important reason, there's no reason we can't squeeze just a little bit of fun in. Besides, I want to make the most of our time together," she said, giving her hand a squeeze. Becky smiled back at the fox, giving her a quick, discreet kiss on the lips.

After taxiing, the plane rolled up to a gate at the terminal. The passengers began gathering their belongings as Rei and Becky joined the crowd entering the terminal, thanking the crew and returning their bows on the way out.

As they walked through the airport, Rei felt a charge, a new invigorating energy. Despite some alarming changes made while she was gone, there was no mistake she was back in her homeland and she could feel it welcome her back with open arms. Becky felt around in her pocket for her amulet and was reassured by its presence.

“While in Japan, the amulet won't be necessary since Rei-sama is of the land. However, it will be necessary once you leave to return home. If it is lost and she is unable to return, Rei-sama will have no choice but to take her promotion and ascend," Yuto's voice echoed in Becky's mind.

After clearing through customs and taking a quick picture to send to Wes, Rei and Becky made their way to the exit to take a taxi to their hotel to check in before meeting Yuto.

“Sumimasen," a lovely young vixen, seemed to appear out of nowhere behind them. She was dressed smartly in a chauffeur's uniform and was bowing slightly with her hands in front of her.

She began speaking Japanese to Rei who responded in kind. The young fox took a few steps backwards before turning around and walking towards the exit.

“Who's that?" Becky asked in wonder, the conversation lost to her.

“It's Yuto's retainer. She's here to pick us up. She was instructed to take us straight to him as it was urgent," Rei answered, a concerned look on her face.

“Urgent? I hope everything's alright," Becky asked, alarmed. The rabbit was used to Rei quelling her fears, but this time the concern was shared equally.

“I'm afraid if Yuto-sama is calling on us right away, then the urgency is well-founded," Rei replied as they began following the vixen.

The girls followed the chauffeur to a black luxury car. She held the door open as they entered the vehicle, closing the door behind them before stowing their luggage in the trunk. Becky was impressed with the interior, but was too busy fighting exhaustion and anxiety to express it.

Soon the car moved smoothly through traffic taking them to their destination. Becky and Rei sat and watched the throngs of people moving under the myriad lights and signs advertising the Byzantine selection of businesses in the area. Soon, the car passed through Shibuya Crossing before going down an alley, stopping in front of a small, but elegant restaurant.

The vixen opened the door, Rei thanking her before she left to park the car. The girls stepped inside and were greeted by a well-dressed bobtail host. He greeted them in Japanese and guided them to a private room in the back. Sitting inside was none other than Yuto with a bottle of sake and three cups waiting.

“Becky, Rei, welcome!" he greeted his guests as he stood.

Stepping inside the room, Rei and Becky took their shoes off and bowed before the fox.

“Thank you so much for hosting us, Yuto-sama," Rei said.

“Yes, we appreciate your hospitality," Becky added.

“I appreciate your company," he said, ushering them to their seats. “Please, have a seat and some sake. Relax before we talk."

A server entered and poured sake for the trio before quietly leaving. Yuto held a toast before the drinking began.

“So you have made the journey thus far. That is very commendable and for that, I have high hopes for you Becky-san."

“I appreciate the honorifics, Yuto-sama, but I don't feel they are necessary. I'm just an American girl," she grinned awkwardly.

“And may I assume you were raised on promises?" Yuto offered a humorous, yet challenging grin.

“I can't help thinking there's a little more to life somewhere else," Becky replied, amused.

“It is quite a great big world with lots of places to run too," Rei added politely, her swishing tail giving herself away.

With a tear, Becky added one more line that touched her the most, “if I have to die trying, there's one promise I am keeping."

She looked to Yuto with resolve. The ancient fox gazed back, reading her like no mortal ever could. For a moment, there was silence, not borne of awkwardness; it was the silence of unsaid understanding. Yuto nodded once before speaking.

“Rei, you truly have found two that are beyond worthy of your bond. I wonder if in years past you would have given them the same consideration they have now after you have gained wisdom," Yuto said before sipping his drink.

“I have discussed this with my rabbits and I have admitted my past attitude concerning mortals. It pains me to admit, but I would have not given them the same consideration before I met… Nobu…" she said with sadness.

“Ah yes, Nobu, who holds the key. I will not question the matter further as it is moot. I have tidings to share and it pains me it does not bode well and will potentially complicate your visit. Yoshinori has discovered your trip to Japan and means to have you," the fox said gravely.

“No, please, say it isn't so. Yuto, this is some joke. Surely, with all respect, you must be mistaken," Rei asked in a panic.

Confused, yet more concerned at her outburst, Becky politely interrupted. “I'm sorry for intruding, but may I ask who Yoshinori is?"

“Yoshinori is a warrior god. He was one of Rei's suitors and has spent centuries trying to win her favor. However, due to her independent temperament and regard for life, she showed no interest in his amorous pursuits," Yuto explained. Rei grit her teeth and began growling. Becky had never seen her so mad without transforming into her true form.

“He always boasted about the victories he blessed upon the clans who paid him the greatest tribute like I cared for such things. This went on for centuries until…" Rei choked up.

Sighing, Yuto spoke candidly to Becky into her ear, “Rei doesn't like discussing it, but the war hit her very hard. Many men were pulled from her village to fight and none came home. Most of the women left and many were killed as they worked in factories or moved to the cities. By the end, she was devastated and grieved for many years."

“All Yoshinori could do was gloat about how many millions of men died in glory on the battlefields in his honor. I asked him if he knew how they died. I asked him if he knew about the deeds they did, the horrors they faced, the depravity, the hopelessness, the starvation, everything and do you know what his response was?"

There was a moment of silence as Rei worked up the courage to answer her own question. Becky sat in awe, awaiting her answer.

“Yes… isn't it a beautiful thing? He isn't just a warrior god, he's a cruel, unrepentant sadist."

Rei's ears folded back as tears streamed from her eyes. She grit her teeth in anger as she did her best to hold back her rage. Her emotions for all the children she helped conceive, birth, and feed with the crops she blessed that grew up, not to make new families, but throw their precious lives away in a useless conflict.

Becky ran on instinct to protect one she loved as best as she could. She said nothing, she just held the goddess to her breast as she tried her best to console her. Rei began weeping into her rabbit. For the time she knew Rei, the fox had been her shoulder to cry on. Now, here she was returning not the favor, but the love.

Rei gasped and panted as her tears soaked the rabbit's shirt with her mourning. Becky did her best, petting the goddess' ears and cooing to sooth her as she had done for her. Soon, Rei's red eyes looked into her rabbit's brown ones as she saw the person that did not run, did not spurn her for her moment of vulnerability, just letting her be.

“I'm so sorry Rei, I didn't know. I didn't know the war affected you so much," Becky said, trying to sooth her love.

“You shouldn't know this. You shouldn't know this pain. It's my burden to shoulder," she croaked.

"Rei, for gods' sake you are not alone!" Becky shouted out.

Once again, the room was silent. The two looked into each others' eyes as now there was a new understanding. If there was any doubt about her rabbits giving up on her so easily, they were now assuaged by the doe's bold declaration.

Not knowing where to turn the conversation, even the wise Yuto was at a bit of a loss. However, the one thing he was able to read was the glimmer of hope and with hope comes possibility. With possibility, borne's outcome. Outcome is the result of action. If anything, her rabbits were about action.

Clearing his throat, he began, “Yoshinori-sama only has a rumor to bait his breath. Yet, he knows not where you are, Rei-sama. I feel your current whereabouts are as yet known to him. However, I feel if you should prove your divinity to the mortals, then that should provide a locus for him to find his quarry," Yuto warned.

Rei began to focus, recovering herself to address the situation. “I am afraid I may have no choice but to prove myself to the mortals. If I do not, they may rescind their part of the bargain we have worked hard to wrought."

“Be that as it may, I highly advise you to take caution while you are here. In any case, while I may not interfere directly, I will help out as I can. Remember, Yoshinori-sama is quite powerful, yet as there have been no wars involving Japan in recent decades, his power is not as great as it once was. However, do not underestimate his strength; it is still quite potent," Yuto gave one last warning.

“I understand, Yuto-sama," Rei responded as she regained her composure.

“In any case, let us set this concern aside and celebrate your return to Japan," he said as he held a cup of sake out in a toast.

“Kampai!" the trio shouted in a toast before they drank.

After a while Rei and Becky were driven by Yuto's assistant to their hotel where they checked in. The girls were escorted to their room and Becky spared no time in collapsing onto the bed. Deciding to let her sleep, Rei made herself some tea and sat by the window and watched the nightlife below as she pondered things.

—————————————

The next morning, Becky woke up. Her bed was empty. She looked around the room to see no one there. Her long ear perked when the sound of a falling plastic bottle on tile caught her attention. Realizing Rei was in the shower, she peeled her clothes off and decided to join her.

Opening the door, she saw the fox goddess in all her naked beauty in the shower. Becky realized something was wrong, she wasn't singing like she normally would. The carefree fox seemed to have vanished and a troubled deity had taken her place. Clearing her throat, the rabbit spoke up.

“You're not singing," she commented.

“Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't want to wake you," the fox smiled uneasily.

“That's never stopped you before. Is the whole Yoshinori thing bothering you?" Becky asked as she stepped in the shower stall, looking into Rei's troubled eyes.

“I spent the night crying. It was more than I could handle, the thought that…" Rei began before being cut off by the rabbit.

“I know what you're thinking. We'll get in and out before he knows we're even here. And even if he does find out, you have powerful friends on your side," Becky reassured the fox, putting her hands on her shoulders as the water cascaded over them.

Rei smiled at her determination through her wet hair, partially covering her face. The rabbit put her forehead to hers as the water continued to run. “We came this far, Rei. If we have to go a little farther, then so be it. Wes is hard at work at home getting things ready for you. We're almost there, and I for one will not give up the one I love without a fight. You did the same for me. The least I can do is help you here."

“Becky, I really am grateful for you and Wes, I truly am. But you don't know how powerful Yoshinori is. He is much older than me and is one step below Inari in relative ranking. Even with his powers weakened since Japan has entered peacetime, he remains a potent force. Yuto is the only one who can fight him on equal terms."

“Then ask Yuto for help," Becky said sternly.

“I can't do that! This isn't his fight. He would decline even if I asked. And I wouldn't venture to. I wouldn't ask for you to put yourself in harm's way against such a powerful foe. I'm afraid this is my fight and mine alone," she said sorrowfully.

“Rei, you are not alone. I will do whatever it is within my power to help. I'll even try if it's beyond me," Becky declared looking into her lover's eyes.

Smiling and shaking her head, Rei began to chuckle. “Oh my, we're talking as if this is an inevitability. He may never know I'm here. If we can convince Hana's relative to dedicate the shrine without me having to prove my divinity, then Yoshinori more than likely won't find me. I'm worrying about things that may never come to pass."

“That's the spirit, Rei. That's the goddess we've come to know and love!" Becky said before kissing the fox.

“I kinda wish we had time to uh, you know," Rei said demurely.

“I was thinking the same thing," she purred as she lightly traced her fingertips along the flesh of her neck, down her soft breast, teasing up a peak.

“Mmmm, I think if we come straight back to the hotel after our meeting, we could take our time," the fox gasped.

“Oh yeah? Are you sure you want to wait?" Becky cooed as she lightly brushed her jewel, causing Rei to squint and bite her lip.

Rei laughed breathily as she tried to recover from an emotional turn on. “No, I don't want to wait, but it's in our best interest if we did."

“I agree and I much rather we take our time. Plus, we can celebrate our victory," Becky said as she began washing herself.

“Victory, you make it sound like we're at war," Rei chuckled as she soaped up her breasts. The girls finished up their shower and got dressed. Ensuring they were presentable, they left the hotel in a cab and headed to the shrine.

—————————————-

The cab pulled up to a shrine in a less-traveled section of the city. The girls got out and stood in front of the entrance guarded by a torii gate. Just behind was a set of stairs leading up to the main grounds on the top of the hill, guarded by a second torii gate.

“Becky, before we head in, I'm afraid you'll have to follow a few simple protocols," Rei instructed the rabbit.

“Understood, I'm all ears," she said as Rei looked at her curiously before laughing.

“What? What's so… oh!" Becky laughed at her faux pas.

“One, you must pass through the torii gates on the side. The center is reserved for the gods. If you don't do this, you might incur the wrath of a very finicky god," she began, pointing her index finger up.

“Ok."

“Two, before we do anything, I highly advise making an offering and a prayer of thanks. It's not so much for the gods, since it would go to Yuto here, but for the shrine keepers to show you're sincere in your efforts."

“It was something I actually wanted to do, so I read up on the proper procedure," Becky answered.

“That's so thoughtful of you! And last, take care in how you answer their questions. Do so honestly, but respectfully. Not that I'm faulting you, but you are a blunt person. In this case, it may work against our efforts," she warned with three fingers up.

“I'll keep that in mind. It's not easy for me sometimes."

“It's ok. If you catch yourself and sincerely apologize right away, it goes a long way itself."

The girls climbed the stairs with Becky following Rei's instructions. To casual observers, they looked like two friends entering the grounds, not realizing a goddess was visiting. A miko noticed Rei walking through the center and at first, sighed about visitors continually violating the traditions. However, upon further observation, she noticed the rabbit engaging in the proper tribute and prayer process. The Shiba Inu went to the office to talk with the caretaker.

“Excuse my intrusion, but there is an American woman observing proper etiquette on our grounds and a Japanese woman who seems to disregard our traditions," she said with a bow.

The caretaker, an older Shiba Inu, looked upon the youth through his glasses. “What species are the women?" he asked.

“A rabbit and a white fox with dyed red points in her fur and okami markings on her face. If she wants to dress as an okami, she should show proper respect," she answered with a rather severe disposition.

“Hikari, go greet the visitors and bring them to the office at once," he said matter-of-factly before returning to his paperwork.

The Shiba Inu made a beeline for the girls. She bowed curtly before addressing them in Japanese. Rei looked amused by her air of authority before she turned to go.

“Uh, what was that all about?" Becky asked, confused by the confrontation.

“She commended your shrine etiquette, yet was severely critical of my own," she answered with an amused tone.

“Oh! I guess she wants us to follow her?"

“To our meeting. We're a little early, but we're here!"

The girls followed the miko through the grounds past the pagoda's to an ordinary-looking building near the rear. They followed her inside as the Shiba announced their audience to the caretaker. The older dog looked up at them and addressed the younger to stay.

“Rei-sama, Becky-san, welcome to our shrine," he said with a bow.

“Thank you Daisuke, we truly appreciate your help with our cause," Becky returned his bow. Rei sat still.

The miko spoke up once more before being silenced by Daisuke. She sat glaring at the guests, yet obeyed her boss.

“Hana speaks of you in high regards. I happen to greatly respect her opinion and to hear she had an encounter with a goddess under Inari, I was skeptical at first. Yet, she is an honest woman and one of my favorite cousins," Daisuke said, smiling as he talked about his family.

“Hana has become a very close friend, Daisuke. I cherish her company and welcome any member of her family into our home," Becky answered.

“My daughter Chika has completed her schooling and training. She has expressed interest in becoming your shrine priestess. She will be with us momentarily, but in the meantime, let me offer you some tea," he said, looking to the miko who understood and left.

“I apologize for her rudeness. She is young and has a very black and white way of looking at the world. She is unaware of the story of Rei-sama's divinity," he apologized to the girls.

“It is quite alright, Daisuke-san. She will find out soon enough," Rei smiled politely.

Soon, Hikari came back with a tray with tea. She politely served the guests and her boss before taking a seat once more. The three took sips and the girls complimented the drink.

Within moments, a third Shiba Inu entered the room and bowed to the girls.

“Chika, this is Becky and Rei," he introduced his daughter.

“Nice to meet you," Becky shook her hand. Chika looked at Rei and despite her beauty seemed underwhelmed by her presence.

“I have a feeling you are a goddess. However, with all due respect, I would like proof of your divinity before I make my final decision," she said respectfully.

Becky looked at Rei for a response. Rei simply spoke in Japanese as she held a discussion with the father and daughter. Eventually, she sighed before speaking once more, “fine. But we'll have to do this in a larger space with as much privacy as you can muster."

“The main hall should suffice," Daisuke said, looking at Chika who nodded in approval.

The group got up and proceeded to the main shrine hall. Rei whispered to Becky, “I tried to convince them to take my word and Hana's testimony, but they wanted to see it for themselves."

“Won't this…" Becky asked before Rei cut her off, already knowing the question.

“I'm afraid so, but we have to take the chance. We can hope for the best and prepare for the worst," she said as they entered the ancient building.

The scent of incense filled the large room as the miko closed the door. The altar in the center held a fox statue with a scroll in its mouth with several offerings placed neatly around. Rei stood in front of the altar and faced the others. Soon, orbs of foxfire floated in the air around her as she gauged the hosts' reactions.

“Very impressive Rei-sama, but a kitsune could summon foxfire. I'm afraid I require more proof," Chika said apologetically.

“Know that what I am about to do may potentially put myself in peril while I am here in my homeland," she said before closing her eyes.

Before the others, Rei transformed into her giant feral form. Becky, now used to it, stood unmoved. Chika and Daisuke stood in awe. Hikari threw herself on the floor and began apologizing profusely.

Chika and Daisuke got down on their knees and bowed deeply with more grace than their employee. Rei sat on her haunches in her regal grace and gazed upon the dogs in front of her. In a proud voice, she addressed the shrine staff, “I have proven my divinity to you, despite my own danger. In return, I ask you to dedicate my shrine where I now live so I may continue helping those who could benefit from my power. Will you do this for me?"

“Yes, you have me Rei-sama. Please excuse my pertinence!" the priestess begged.

Shifting back to her mortal form, she stood over Chika. “Chika, of course you are forgiven. Your heart is good. I had to put on a bit of a show."

The priestess looked up briefly to see the smiling fox looking upon her, her tail flipping about behind her. Daisuke soon got up as well. Looking over to the hapless miko who quaked as she still hid her head in a bow.

Rei went over and tapped her softly on the shoulder. Hikari jumped at the touch and began mumbling incoherently.

“Poor thing's in shock," she said with pity. Rei got down on the floor and touched her hands. The Shiba seemed to have calmed down and slowly looked up, peering through her bangs. Rei was before her with more kindness in her eyes than she had ever known.

Hikari began talking as she rose with Rei, but stumbled into the fox's arms as the goddess embraced her. She struggled out of humiliation more than anything, but Rei began stroking her ears, quieting the young girl.

Becky turned to Daisuke and Chika, “my own parents never gave me affection. Rei was the first person, well, being that made me feel like I was in a mother's arms. I don't know what I'd do if she was no longer in my life. She's my confidant when I can't talk to my boyfriend about some things. She's been a fantastic friend to him and I've seen him improve as a person and lover since she's been with us. We owe you so much for a chance at a new future."

“It is our pleasure. I hope you forgive our insistence upon Rei-sama's proof of divinity. There are quite a few scams regarding shrines and a few even turn into cults in the worst cases. It's something I learned in university," Chika explained.

“There's nothing to forgive, I get it. Too many con artists in the world," Becky replied.

Rei and Hikari soon rejoined the others before they all returned to the office.

“Moving forward, I have to apply for immigration papers so I can reside permanently in the States. However, for the dedication ceremony, I can have that done on a vacation. I have already booked my tickets and will arrive on the evening of December thirty-first," Chika explained.

“The thirty-first? We need to have this done by the New Year. Are you able to get an earlier flight?" Becky asked with grave concern.

“I'm aware of the time constraints and please understand I have done everything in my power to book an earlier flight. However, most flights were overbooked as they were. I had no other choice," Chika answered.

“I trust you know the urgency. We'll have to head straight from the airport to the site. My boyfriend has been studying what we need and will have it ready by then," Becky said, rubbing her cheek in thought.

“That should be acceptable. A simple shrine is all we need. The grounds can be built up as the shrine grows. I will be ready to do the ceremony as soon as we land," Chika assured the girls.

“Do you have a relic?" Daisuke turned to Becky.

“We're going to search for one at Rei's old village," the rabbit answered.

“Please keep in mind that what you search for may no longer be there. Is there a plan if you come up empty handed?" The Shiba Inu asked not as a challenge, but to bring light to potential outcomes that may not be in their favor.

“Although it has been quite a few decades since I left, I do know the village has largely been abandoned. I'm not saying it will be the end all be all of our search, but it should at least offer a start," Rei interjected.

“Very well. I wish you luck," he added with a confident smile.

“Well, I think we have the basic arrangements made, then. After the ceremony, we'll have dinner and spend the week you're in town discussing the plans for the shrine and getting to know each other," Becky stood up, thrusting her hand out.

“I look forward to it," Chika smiled, shaking her hand.

The group gave their final goodbyes before Rei and Becky left. The two grabbed lunch and with a bit of time on their hands, decided to do some sightseeing. Becky felt a text message coming through. Thinking it was from Wes, she read it right away. To her surprise, it was from Yuto.

“Meet me tonight at the Markee Club in Shibuya. Please be there around seven." The message was followed by the address to the club.

“Yuto wants us to meet him at a music club tonight," Becky told Rei.

“That's odd. He never goes to music venues," she said.

“What's odd is, I never gave him my phone number," Becky said, confused.

“Maybe you should consider going out on a date with him," Rei teased.

“Hmmm, he is quite handsome," Becky considered before she laughed with Rei, unable to keep a straight face.

Later that evening, the girls headed to the address. It was a music venue that was a mockup of a famous club in England, paying tribute to the original. A few regulars sat at a bar while a tanuki in punk rock garb tended their drinks. Power pop played on the sound system as there was no live music that night. Looking around, the girls saw Yuto sitting at a table waving them over. Another figure sat with his back towards them.

As they approached, Rei saw the other figure, a rat having a beer. Rei's eyes widened in joy and she wasted no time in hugging the figure.

“Raijin-sama, it's been too long!" she sang as she embraced the god.

“It's good to feel, I mean see you too Rei-sama," he smiled as his head was pressed to her breasts.

“Ever the lech," she chuckled.

The rat had a mohawk dyed red. Tattoos adorned his arms and he wore a t-shirt of a club that once existed in New Hampton along with ripped jeans and boots. He had a muscular body and looked to be in his mid-forties.

The girls took their seats, Rei sitting next to Raijin and Becky next to Yuto. Rei sidled up next to the rat, wrapping her arms around his.

“You two have history, huh?" Becky asked as a server brought two beers.

“Aside from Yuto, Raijin is one deity I worked closely with. He was always kind in bringing rain to my village for their crops, even if he was a bit of a prankster," she recalled.

“I like to have fun!" he laughed.

The three toasted before taking a drink. Yuto brokered the issue at hand.

“Rei, I will not mince words. Yoshinori now knows you are here in Japan," he said gravely.

“I figured as much," she sighed.

“He will not wait too long to confront you about marriage. What will you do?" he asked with a purposeful challenge.

“Refuse," was her determined reply.

“Your refusal is granted, however, he knows you will flee the country and out of his realm. He means to take you by force and keep you through subjugation," he countered.

A chill went through Rei, her fur fuzzing out. “Inari would never allow it."

“Inari might not get involved. I have consulted with Inari and she said the relationships of her spirits is none of her business," was Yuto's reply.

“Great, so what do we do? He's a warrior god, does Rei have a chance to defend herself?" Becky asked, trying to remain level headed so she could contribute to any planning.

“It's my own fault and I acknowledge that. If I had taken the promotion centuries ago, I would actually be more powerful than Yoshinori. If I wanted to, I could've made short work of him. I still have the capability to use that amount of power, but it would overwhelm me and potentially kill me and others around me," Rei added.

“Rei," Yuto looked into the other fox's eyes.

“In light of Inari's non-commitment, I decided to hedge our bets. I brought Raijin here to help us with our plans," Yuto began.

“I thought nothing of helping my favorite fox," he said, ruffling Rei's hair.

“Beyond his might, Yoshinori is known for his ego and flair for dramatics. Despite his aggressiveness, he will not fight during your first confrontation," the rat began.

“How do you know this?" Becky asked.

“For one, he wants the first encounter to elicit despair and a sense of finality, knowing many of his foes are fatalistic. He's counting on Rei being so distraught by his presence that it eats away at her. In other words, he will get into her head," he said, taking a sip of beer.

“Do not count on a fight with your first encounter. I advise you ladies to stand your ground. Even if he calls out your fear, do not show it. Treat it as an annoyance and continue on with your trip. Another reason he will wait is he knows the closer to the end of your trip you are, the more the pressure will amp up and he will use that to his advantage. He is not going anywhere and has nothing to lose."

“So when do you think we'll see him?"

“Very soon. I wouldn't be surprised if he knows Rei is here. However, he doesn't know we know he knows. Yoshinori is familiar with my friendship with Rei, so to him, we're just catching up. We need to use this time to plan, so we have some element of surprise," Raijin said, looking towards Yuto who was sipping his own beer.

“Becky, if it comes down to it, do you think you could fight?" Yuto asked the rabbit next to him.

“Well, I can fight. I did take martial arts classes when I was younger, but tennis was my main thing," she said.

“Will you jump into the fight, even if it seems hopeless?" Becky looked into Rei's eyes, remembering Rei saving her from Fernando.

“Absolutely. I wouldn't hesitate," she said.

“But would you know to wait until the right moment?" Raijin asked.

“I- I don't know…" she faltered, realizing her limitations.

“Becky, this fight will involve you; it has to. Yoshinori may not agree with this fact, but you are bonded strongly with her and this affects yours and your lover's lives. If he was here, I'd say the same to him," the rat said, leaning towards the rabbit to drive the point home.

Becky didn't know what to say. She never thought she'd be in this position. Then again, she never thought Wes would come home with a goddess and that she'd fall hard for her, seemingly more than Wes, himself. Yet, here she was, drinking beer with ancient gods in a rock club in Tokyo.

“How am I supposed to fight a god?" she asked apprehensively.

“With my help," Raijin said, taking her hands in his own. Becky felt an electrical charge pulse through her body. Her hair and fur began to gloat as the distinctive taste of metal tingled the tip of her tongue. Feeling the power course through her body, she looked at the rat who countered with a confident smile.

“She's strong. Rei, you have a chance."

—————————————

The group stayed until closing time, putting their plan together before catching up. They split up with Becky and Rei heading back to their hotel. There were few people walking along, most already riding the last trains home.

“I still can't believe that I sat next to Raijin. I wanted to talk to him so much and hear all his stories. He fucking helped turn the Mongolian Horde, he was directly involved in world history!" Becky enthused slightly inebriated.

“Raijin's a dear friend. I'd be glad to host him if you and Wes are ok with it," Rei offered, feeling her own buzz.

“Hey, that electrical jolt he sent through me got me a little worked up. You wanna finish what we started this morning?" Becky whispered into her ear, taking the red tip into her mouth and suckling so softly.

“I love the way you think," the fox purred.

The girls stopped dead in their tracks, and braced themselves.

“You feel it too?" Rei asked.

“Yes, it feels like your barrier," Becky answered.

“It's exactly what it is," the fox responded, looking around to see a lone figure approaching them.

Coming into a light from a high end department storefront, the figure was a tall wolf dressed impeccably in a gray designer suit with dark sunglasses and looked to be in his mid-thirties. He bore a powerful frame and strode towards the girls with purpose. He stood before them, raised his head, looking down his nose.

“Yoshinori…" Rei glared at the wolf.

Cracking a smug grin, his voice boomed darkly.

“Rei-sama, welcome home."