Roger dutifully followed her, thinking he might be able to talk some sense into her when she calmed down.
"And you!" She turned to him suddenly. "Leave me alone! I'm going back to Friar Park for what's left of the weekend, then I'm going to school! She said this is a game! I quit, you hear? I'm DONE!!"
Roger stopped short and watched her go. Nyx and Anaera still stood where Susanne had left them, each with her Guardian, for a few more moments before going their separate ways.
As before, Susanne hardly even noticed as the scenery changed. She was in London almost before she knew it. Then she was through it, on the outskirts, then she found herself in the Henly-on-Thames district. Finally, she was back at Friar Park. George and Olivia were out, probably already gone to one of his other homes. She couldn't blame them.
Susanne knew she had a housekey somewhere, but she couldn't find it, and didn't feel like searching for it. And she couldn't remember the code to turn off the alarm, anyway. So she went out into the gardens and decided to rest there for awhile. She sat down at the base of a tree and leaned back, and before she knew it, was fast asleep.
Can you hear me? a deep, smooth voice asked.
Who's there?
Relax, you're still asleep.
What?
I've been trying to communicate with you all day, but I guess you couldn't see me. Or you weren't listening. But I'm glad you can hear me now.
Who are you?
I am Hotohori.
Oh, you're the one I'm supposed to fight for, right?
That is correct.
I don't fight. I am not a fighter.
The others will fight you. You should be prepared.
I'd rather be left alone.
You don't have that option. You should be proud of your status of Otaku. You have powers--
That blast?
That, and probably others. All Otakus have certain powers.
I don't understand all this.
Which is the reason for your Guardian. Listen to him.
Roger? Whatever. Listen, is there any particular reason that I have to fight for you? I mean, I don't even know you!
You have met me.
I have? A mental image of Andy flashed through her mind. Andy? That's you?
In a sense. He just doesn't know it. This is part of your duty as Otaku.
What is?
To make him remember. He has the memories, but he chooses to ignore them.
*I'm* supposed to make *him* remember? Are you crazy? She received no answer.
Susanne?
Rapath?
Go back. You are needed.
Susanne sat bolt upright. What the hell was all that? She looked around, remembering the events of the day, and dropped back against the tree. Bloody hell. Oh, and now I'm picking up on Heather's expressions, she thought with a giggle. After a few more moments, her dream replayed.
"I'm needed, huh?" She said aloud as she stood up and sighed. "Alright, then. Come on, feet."