Ronin Warriors Fan Fiction ❯ Yokoi no Death and Rebirth ❯ Chapter 15: The Only Thing That Matters ( Chapter 16 )

[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]
By: Destiny's Lot
Final chapter!
The trooper with the aid of Yami face off against Kayura and her possessed masho. Can the masho be freed? And what of Kaos and his brother's plan to seal Youja Kai. Seiji/Touma, Anubis/Seiji, Touma/Saya, Shuten/Naaza
Rajura/Kayura Ryo/??, Shin/???, Shu/??? Read and Review!

Anime/Manga: Ronin Warriors Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Drama / Action | Type: Alternate Universe | Uploaded On: 12.01.2002 | Updated On: 06.02.2005 | Pages: 10 | Words: 12.0K | Visits: 320 | Status: Work In Progress

DL: Oh a day off work!!!! I'm being so lazy. Lol but I must finish this today. This will be the last chapter also. Hahaha can you believe that. The epilogue will be load separately, it will be call `If You're Not The One' Yeah you know that Daniel Bedingfield song. (Probably spelled that wrong.) Anyway so watch out for that one.
Shu: Yeah yeah get on to the action!
Touma: Last chapter?
Ryo: Oh really you think so.
DL: I know so.
Ryo: Do you.
DL: Yes
Ryo: Are you sure?
DL: *getting annoyed* Yes!
Ryo: How do you know?
DL: *starts typing, suddenly Ryo's hair turns pink.*
Touma: Dude, Ryo your hair.
Ryo: Ahahahaa, change it back, change it back!!!!
DL: Promise to stop annoying me?
Ryo: God, I promise!!!
DL: I'll think about it. Start last chapter now.
Ryo: But DL, please!!!!!!!
Seiji: Poor bastard.
Nasty: I kinda like it,
Shin: Me too, reminds me of Shindou
Ryo: Ahahahahahhhhh!!!!!
DL: Shin… you're a gravitation fan?
Shin: *blushes*
DL: *snicker* Like I said start last chapter now.
 
Chapter 15
The Only Thing That Matters
 
“Stop that accursed noise!” Kayura and the spirit with-in her screamed as they stumbled backward. Her hands plastered to her ears as she shrieked in pain her body, covered in tight black fabric, flickered; the light burning from the staff along with hypnotic chimed of the rings cause extreme pain to the possessed girl.
Ryo and the other watched in amazement as Kaos's staff held the demon at bay.
“Ryo!!” Nasty yelled from the balcony.
“It's ok, just stay put!”
“Ryo, will this work?” Shin asked from his right both of them returning their attention to the screaming Priestess.
“I don't know.”
“Ryo!” He glanced to his left as Seiji, and Shu ran toward them, Touma and Saya trailing behind.
“What happen?” Their leader eyes widened as they caught sight of Touma practically towing Saya toward them.
“Just some scratches,” Saya muttered as they caught up with the others.
“Hardly, but she'll be ok.” Touma states as his eyes flickered from Saya to the writhing form of Kayura.
Ryo nodded following the archer's gaze. /This has worked before so it should work again./
/The second she is free of the spirit blast it. /
^ A simple enough plan fearless leader.^ Shu answered a smirk filtering though with his words.
^One truly worth of Rekka.^
^Seiji is making jokes…^ Touma added as Kayura collapsed on all fours her back arching as the eerie shape of Arbinary began to reveal it's self.
The yoroi bearers moved in a bit raising their weapons in preparation to strike. The ghostly being shift pilling away from its host.
“Ready?” Ryo shouted as he felt the power of his fellow trooper and not surprisingly masho rise. The spirit shrieked throwing its head back but before anyone could act the figure simply broke apart.
“What the hell?!” Shu burst as the screaming priestess collapsed to the blood grass.
“Kayura!” Gen no Rajura called as he and the masho moved toward the fallen figure.
“That was rather anti-climactic.” Touma muttered gaining a few nods.
“Will she be ok?” Shin asked as they watched the masho fuss over the umoving girl it was a rather hilarious sight if it wasn't for all the carnage around them.
Ryo watched them check over her body before suddenly remembering Kaos, snapping his head up to where the monk was only moments before he found the space empty.
“He's mostly gone to the seal the gate,” Seiji answer coming along side him.
“So now what?” Shu asked plopping down on the earth his naginta lying beside him.
“Who knows with the gate closed the masho are stuck here,” Touma replied before glancing back at Saya who had also set down on the grass. Her exhaustion was clear to see as she leaned on her sheathed swords.
“Oh man! There not staying here?!” Shu bellowed.
“Um love it's not your house.”
“I don't care, there is no way I'm sharing a bathroom with peeping tom Rajura or a kitchen with snake face Naaza.”
“That's true I wouldn't-“ Shin started but was cut off as the air around them shifted suddenly. Everyone froze waiting, but when nothing more happened, the gang relaxed.
“What the…”
“The gates are sealed.” Seiji announced.
“Ryo?!” Nasty called from the deck.
“I better go fill her in,” Ryo sighed before trotting toward the mansion.
“I'll come with you,” Shin said gaining a thank you nodded from him.
“The rest of you keep watch.”
“Will do,” Shu replied giving Ryo a half salute before falling back down on the ground. “Gods, I'm hunger.”
“Shu!!”
**********************************************
“The realm is sealed,” Shuten muttered in realization as Anubis checked over the still form on Kayura; the slight raise and fall of her chest assuring them that the girl lived.
“Then we are truly stuck here.” Rajura sighed running his hands through Kayura's hair.
“No!!” Naaza hissed. “What are we to do in this cursed place?”
“This was once out home Naaza.” Shuten reminded him softly.
“This was never a home to me,” the poison master hissed sitting back with a huff.
^Things will be better this time, Naaza.^ A whisper echoed inside of Naaza'a mind.
/Who..?/
^You and I have never spoken Naaza, but I have watched you and protected you.^
/Doku…/
^Yes, I am here for you now. ^ Naaza could feel it now a presence centered around his armor. ^ You will never be along Naaza, you have your brothers and you have me.^
Naaza was at a loss; hope that he hadn't gone nuts.
“Naa-chan?”
“Shuten… Is your armor talking to you?” Instantly he could feel the amusement from his brother as Shuten nodded.
“Oh course baka,” Anubis grumbled, “That girl set the yorois' free.”
“Oh..”
Naaza hung his head slightly but a quick pat on the shoulder brought his dark eyes up to meet Shuten blue ones. /What...?/ Naaza wanted to voice but couldn't as he stared into his younger brother's eyes.
A slightly flicker of power broke the two apart as Anubis began healing Kayura's wounds.
“Hum…” the blue haired swordsman grunted.
“What…” Rajura started to ask, but a slight moan from Kayura halted him. “Kayura?” She opened her painted lips as if to answer but nothing came out.
“Kayura?”
“…get…don't…” The long haired girl tried again.
“Is she waking up?” One of the troopers called pulling Naaza attention away from demon girl for a moment but in the next the silence was shattered.
“…get back… don't heal him…”
“Shit!” Anubis cursed as he Kayura's hand latched onto his wrist sucking the healing energy from Yami's armor.
Naaza whirled around just in time to receive a vicious kick to his nose his face guard bending under the blow.
“Naaza!”
**************************************
Something felt wrong very, very wrong but before Saya could voice it, chaos erupted from the small circle around Kayura.
Naaza flew passed them skidding across the ravage field.
“Naaza!” Shuten shouted before received the same treatment, Rajura following immediately after. Turning back to Kayura Saya could make out an unnatural green glow around her as she clutched the limp Anubis in her left hand.
“How the hell?!” Shu blurted as he rose from the ground.
“She's still possessed,” Seiji stated pulling his no-dachi before him.
“Yami!” Saya called as she started forward but Touma quickly latched on to her.
“What she doing to him?” Shu growled his teeth cletching..
“She draining his energy,” Saya answered as the four of them watched trying to decide the best plan on action. Raising his bow Touma fired four quick shots but to their dismay Kayura simply swung Yami's body in front of her own the arrows striking Anubis armored shell.
“Shit!”
“Double shit!” Shu exclaimed after the archer.
“Let him go!!” Naaza shouted his face guard having been released allowing Saya to see the anger and anguish on the masho's face.
“Kayura you must fight him.”
“Yes Kayura you are stronger then this, don't let that monster control you!” Rajura shouted adding to Shuten's plead.
The energy around her seemed to waive before Anubis slipped from her grasp. Clutching head she screamed.
“That's it Kayura fight him,” Shuten encouraged as the demon girl tossed her head back before slumping forward.
“Kayura!!”
************************************
/You little bitch!/
^Get out!! Get out!!^
/Weakling, fine you are of very little use to me now anyway./ Forcing the girl to raise her head once more Arbinary set his eyes on the four yoroi a short distance from her.
/Rekka is not with them but that does really matter. In fact this may work much better./
*************************************
Her cold eyes focused on him for a brief second before the spirit rushed from Kayura's body streaking toward him.
“Shit, move!!” Shu shouted but he couldn't see him. Touma raised his bow firing at the spirit with no effect as the golden arrow went straight threw it.
“Seiji move!” Saya shouted but Touma glance back at him before throwing his body in front of Seiji. The blonde gasp as the spirit went straight threw the archer before crashing into him. The distortion was instant as the world around Seiji vanished.
He could hear his friend calling out his name but despite his attempt he couldn't see or answer them.
^Your so lonely, let me help you. Let me get you what you want Seiji Date.^
/Touma…/
************************************
“Shit, shit, shit!!”
“What the hell happened?!” Ryo yelled as he a Shin came streaking across the yard.
“Arbinary is trying to possess Seiji.” Touma shouted franticly as the he shook Seiji's shoulder trying to reach him.
“He's cut off from us,” Shin started, “I can't reach him at all.”
^Saya!^ Through the state of panic Saya could hear Ojo trying to gain her attention.
/Ojo?/
^This can not happen, the troopers armors' are much closer connected then the seasons, if the spirit succeed he could transfer his will through the link they share and enslave them all just as he had done to the season.^
/What are we supposed to do?/ Saya asked as she watched the troopers continue to try and contact the blonde.
^You must awake Korin's yoroi.^
/Okay./ Closing off the outside worlds Saya focused on Korin.
/Korin?/ Not receiving a instant response Saya pushed a little deeper. /Korin can you hear me?/
^Saya…?^
Saya stopped short. /Seiji?/
^Saya…^ Moving toward the call Saya could see a bright green orb floating before her. It seemed so close but as she reached out to touch it malice suddenly surround her yanking her around to face the snarling spirit, its aura engulfing her.
^You!^ It hissed tightening it hold on her the energy beginning to straggle her. ^Bitch, you ruined everything!^
Saya gasped trying her hardest to break free.
^And now I'll crush you.^ She wheezed as the power tightened crush her small frame.
/Ahaa! Touma! Ojo!^ She cried desperately.
^Release her!^ The power was suddenly severed as Saya stumbled backward only to be caught be a stronger arm.
/Seiji./
^Leave here I can stop him myself.^ The blonde told her not bothering to look at her.
/But Seiji ,you-/
^There you are Korin no Seiji.^ The spirit hissed narrowing malevolent, dead eyes at them. ^You can't hide from me or what you desire.^
^Leave Saya I can handle this.^
/Seiji you-/ Arbinary moved suddenly his power batting her away as it engulfed Seiji much like it had done before.
/Seiji!/
^I WON'T GIVE IN!^
****************************************
“Saya!?” Touma cried as she suddenly dropped backward onto the dirt.
“What going on?!” Shu bellowed in frustration as everything seemed to be falling apart around them. Seiji had yet to move and now Saya was also unconscious.
“She must have tried to free his yoroi too.”
Touma looked up at Shin realizing that was exactly what she'd been trying to do.
“We have to try and get into Seiji's mind,” Touma stated moving back over to Seiji with Saya in his arms.
“Right.”
“But Ryo, I tried he's completely blocked off.”
“Then we'll try again and again Shin, we have to reach him,” Ryo said his voice determined as he looked up from Seiji's pale face to Shin. “It will work.” He added holding Shin's eyes.
“It will.” Shin nodded as the four of them reached out each placing a hand on their fallen comrade's chest.
/Seiji!/ Shin called hearing the other doing the same.
/Seiji answer us!/
****************************************
Saya's eyes fluttered open expecting to see the grass field but instead she gazed upon a Japanese mansion. Red slanted roof, pristine rock swathed garden and high barrier wall. /What the hell?/
Sitting up Saya took in the sight not sure how she'd come to be here. /Is this in Seiji's mind?/
^Ojo… Shinu…^
Saya blinked, staring at the mansion as the front door slid open.
/Korin?/
Warily Saya stood venturing toward the door the entry way.
/Korin./
^Set me free, please my Seiji needs me.^
/Where are you?/
^Follow.^ As she stepped through the door another opened and then another leading her deeper into the still abode.
Gaining more confidence Saya began to move faster her heart filling with a sense of urgency. /Seiji hold on./
^Just ahead, hurry!^ As the last door open the orb of Korin revealed it self.
/Korin…/ Saya stepped up to the orb her finger tips brushing its' against forestry surface. /Be free Korin./ The orb flared into a huge mass of green energy before blasting passed her. /Korin save Seiji./ Turning to leave Saya stopped a flash on blue catching her eyes. Saya turned looking at the tightly sealed door.
/What is that…?/ She wondered as she stepped closer raising her hand to sate her curiosity.
/No…/ She shook her head stepping back. /This place is not mine to explore./ *****************************************
Seiji's body sagged against the onslaught of power and images.
^Give in to me.^
The blond want to answer wanted to scream `no', but he couldn't.
^Give in to want you desire Seiji.^ Images came unabated to his mind even through closed eyes.
^Do you not desire him?^
/Touma…/ The name fluttered through his mind.
^Give in to me.^ The spirit neared lowering it head down to Seiji.
^Give in.^ Touma's voice whispered across his mind.
Seiji raised his eyes to meet illusionary blue. Slowly the image of Touma lowered his lip to Seiji's.
^You will not have him demon!^ The roar pulled the spirit from Seiji's lip and instantly it returned to its repulsive form. The spirit eyes widened at the unseen owner of that voice.
^You are free, you are free!?!^ Arbinary shrieked fearfully as he pulled back away from Seiji.
Feeling himself began to sink Seiji only groaned as steely arms encircle him from behind.
^Do not fear Seiji, I am here.^ Turning slightly the weakened swordsman's eyes widened.
/Korin..?/
^ That bitch must have done this. I'll ripe her to shreds.^
/No you won't./ Seiji stated raising his arms. /Buso Korin!/ In a flash Korin encased him.
/You will not harm anyone again./
***********************************
“Raikozan.” It came as a whisper from the blonde's lip but the other troopers heard it as soon as it was uttered.
“He is awakened,” Saya muttered beside the blonde but Ryo had no time to ponder her words as a scream ripped from the swordsman's lip before the spirit was ousted out of his body. Leaping to his feet Ryo's eyes narrowed as the spirit tumble threw the air.
“Got you, you bastard!” Shu roared as they all pulled back aiming at the floundering spirit.
“Gantessai!” Shu shouted aiming his blast at Arbinary with Ryo, Touma and Shin instantaneously following.
“Soenzan!”
“Shinkuha!”
“Choruha!”
“No!!” The spirit screamed try to deny his fate.
“Oh it's not over yet, demon!” Shuten shouted over the sure kills. “Koraisen!”
“Jagaken!”
“Tochimo!” The three conscious masho raged, drowning out what every the spirit was crying as its body disintegrated to nothingness. The warriors watched their eyes making sure that justice was served.
“Seiji?” Saya asked bring the troopers attention back to their comrades. The bearer of Korin slowly opened him eyes staring up at them before turning back to Saya.
“Thank you.”
Ryo could see her face light up at the acknowledgment.
“You're welcome.”
******************************************
“Shu, if you don't stop eating and come on!” Shin yelled from the door his shoes already on and tapping in annoyance.
“I'm leaving.” Saya announced as she bounded pass Shin with a little spin before grabbing her helmet.
“I've got your keys,” Touma called from somewhere outside while the fading vroom of Seiji's sport car left no doubt that both swordsman where most likely already gone.
“Bye Saya, bye boys!” Nasty called waving her hands at them through the kitchen door.
She turned back to stare at Shu who was still eating.
“Shu Lei Faun if you don't get to school right now I swear I'm going to have the attendance office call your mother.”
Shu's eyes widened as he finished stuff the last sausages in his mouth.
“I'm going, I'm going!” He grabbled shotting out of the kitchen.
“Better hurry on to school Konga.” Naaza mocked from the kitchen table as he munched happily on some silly children's cereal, Lucky Duckies or something like that.
“Shut up snake breath.”
“Shu now!” Nasty order as she heard Saya's motorcycle take off leaving no doubt that she was planning on catch up to Seiji. /That girl is going to be the death of me one day and whom every is riding with her./
The front door final slammed closed thought Nasty could still hear Shin yelling for Shu to `hurry the bloody hell up'.
The silence that suddenly fell over the mansion was a relief Nasty couldn't put into words. Though she loved her youngest member of the mansion they could be so noisy.
“Nasuti-san?” She turned at the caller of her name to see Kayura with a hand full of dishes.
“Yes.” Despite all her effort the ancient girl still preferred to call her by her full name and she'd given up on trying to change that.
“Do you mind if I add popcorn to the shopping list. It seems someone ate the last two packets last night.”
“God, those boys eat so much food. Sure in fact I was wondering if you wouldn't mind doing the shopping today. I'll be in class until late.”
“Me, Nasuti-san I'd be honored.”
“Great. I'll leave money on the one the entry way table for it. Oh and you should probably take Shuten or…”
“I'd be happy to go with you my lady,” Rajura stated as he passed Nasty from the dinning room.
“I'd like that very much Rajura-san.” Kayura replied meekly as Rajura leaned over to rummaging through the refrigerator.
“I'm sure you would.” Nasty though she heard Naaza mutter from the table a smirk on his lips as he chewed on another piece of fruit he was having with his cereal.
Rajura simply ignored the comment but Kayura turned a pretty shade of pink before returning her eyes to the dishes.
Nasty cleared her throat, trying to hide her smile. “Well I'm off as well. Have a good day minna.”
“You too Nasuti-san.” Kayura chirped in while the other two ex-masho simply waved. Nasty turned finally allowing the smile to show as she grabbed her bag. Pulling out the money for groceries and leaving it on the small wooden table; she picked up the keys to her new car a donation from the Dates' and left. Happy little matchmaking plans already making their way into her head.
********************************************
The forest was peaceful, light dancing through the trees that Shuten walked under. It seemed silly to him that he could have forgotten such simple pleasure while under the control of Arago. Sighing the bearer of Oni took a deep breath scanning the shadow for his… prey. Anubis would have growled or worse for that comparison but it seemed to fit best in this situation.
Out of all of his comrades the bearer of Yami was having the hardest time adjusting to this world and more importantly to the troopers. He spent a great deal of his days and nights out here in the forest. Though Shuten understood his reason he also understood that this behavior was not winning him any trust in the eyes of the youngster.
The others though were quickly conforming to Ningen Sekai and becoming dare he say domestic. / Not if I wish to keep my tongue./
Shuten chuckled to himself and instantly saw a shift in the shadows.
“What are you chuckling at?” Anubis's voice grumbled.
“Why Anubis there you are.” Stepping closer the yoroi bearer could make out Anubis's form along with lounging bodies of Byaruen and Kokuen-Ko whom had somehow come to be locked on this side of the barrier.
“And to what do I own this displeasure?”
“Displeasure, why dear brother I didn't come here seeking you out, I merely wished to be free of the usual morning racket as the children left.”
“Bull shit.”
“I see your learn Ningen slang faster then Naa-chan.”
“Hm.” The other snorted and for a few minutes there was nothing but the chirping of the sparrows and the rustling of the branches. “They're gone.” Anubis suddenly asked with a quiet cautious.
“Yes, why don't you come back to the house with me, our comrades have missed your company and Kayura aided Shin in creating a most wonderful breakfast.”
Shuten smiled as the masho stood petting Kokuen-ko on the head before doing the same to Byakuen.
“Fine.”
The walk back was quiet and uneventful as the bearers of Oni and Yami journey along the path. Shuten mind drift ahead to the others, Naaza no doubt still eating his fruit and cereal while Kayura cleaned and Rajura would of course be reading. He spent a great deal of his time reading, something he enjoy back in Youji Kai but had little time for. Now though he spent more time reading then he did trying to woo his lady. Something Shuten continued to bring up with `Jura until the spider had asked similar questions about him and Naaza. Needless to say the discussion hadn't come up since.
Sliding the glass door open Shuten stepped in removing his shoes as he slid into the seat next to Naaza who looked up at him the a juice smile. /Kaiwii./
“Good to see you Anubis, thank you for deciding to grace us with your presence now that the children are gone.” /But still 100% Naaza./
To which Anubis only grunted.
Though Shuten was pleased that Naaza didn't point out which of the `children' Anubis was trying to avoid.
“Good morning Anubis-san.” Kayura greeted cheerful removing a warming plate from the oven and handing it to the blue hair man who thanked her with a nodded before heading to the front room where Shuten could hear the TV playing.
Shuten glanced at Naaza who was busy watching their wayward friend before smirking. Taking advantage Shuten pick up a piece of kiwi from Naaza's plate slipping it into his mouth.
“Hey,” Naaza protested half heartily. “Get your own.”
“Oh I'm sorry Naa-chan, you can have it back if you want.” Shuten smirked again before holding the un-chewed piece of fruit between his lips.
The poison master glanced at it before looking back up to his leader's eyes.
“No thanks he grumbled a blush staining his cheeks as he looked back down at his plate and continued eating.
Shuten grinned wider before reach to steal another piece.
“Shuten, Naaza, Kayura come here.” Rajura voice called from the front room. Sighing at the interruption Shuten stood following Kayura from the room, Naaza trailing them.
~if you will recall these tapes were originally passed to the local media a little over a month ago but the government quickly seized them calling it a matter of `national security.'~ Shuten picked up as he stepped into the room to set his follow ex-masho staring intently at the television. It was some sort of news/talk show.
~Yes, but after reviewing the tape the Japanese Government has official label these tape a hoax.~ One of the men spoke as he leaned forward before become my comfortable in the cream colored chairs though Shuten doubt that would help since he was still in a tight military uniform..
~ And if it is indeed a hoax then there wasn't any reason for them to keep the tapes from the public?~ The first man stated more then asked as he study the uniformed man waiting for an reply. When one was forth coming he continued. ~I understand you brought a copy of these tapes for us~ The uniform man nodded look distinctly unsure. ~Ok let see it.~
Everything that was said after that was lost of Shuten as he watched Sayain the yoroi they had come to call Shinwa and himself battle in any office building. /A battle Shuten clearly remembered./ Though for the most part there faces were indiscernible Shuten knew that in the end this tape was going to cause very big trouble for them.
“We have to tell the troopers,” Rajura stated looking back to him for approval.
“Yes.”
**********************************************
Even a walk through the thankfully tranquil forest around the `trooper' mansion wasn't helping Seiji's mood. The sky just didn't seem bright enough to lighten the bearer of Korin's mood. In fact nothing had been able to lighten the blonde's mood since she moved in.
/Saya…/ The name that once hissed within his mind had changed or rather the way he view Touma's girlfriend had. Saya wasn't the bitch he wanted her to be point and fact she was a very interesting person. Nasty treated her like a little sister, Shin loved having another person to mother over, and even their fearless leader seemed to have taken to her even if that was only because she was still willing to get her butt kick on the soccer field day and day out; God knows he gotten tire of it. And him…
Sighing Seiji looked back up to the sky his mind in ever increasing turmoil.
As he'd grown to know Saya and albeit grudgingly, like her Seiji's feelings of guilt over Touma and his unrequited love had expanded. He was becoming the only thing on Seiji's mind, dream after… pleasurable dream was focus on the blue haired archer and Seiji hated it. Before the invasion of his mind by Arbinary Seiji felt he had was actually began to get over his crush on Touma, but it was not the case.
It didn't help that he lived with the object of his obsession, went to school with him and even slept in the same room as him. How was one to get over a crush, when every moment was a reminder of them.
Sighing again, something that was become a habit, Seiji continued to trudge deeper into the forest planning on some alone time, also become more and more a habit, but he was stopped by the unmistakable sound of a bow firing.
His feet changed course without his consent moving him toward the sound and the one making it. Stopping at the edge of the archer field Seiji's eyes feasted on the sight of Touma. The archer, unaware of Seiji standing to his right and just a bit back, raised the wooden practice bow to fire again. /So absolutely perfect, Gods his so beautiful./
Seiji wasn't sure how long he watched the mesmerizing move movement before coming back to his sense. /Damn it, this is just what I'm trying to avoid./ Turning sharply the blonde started to depart only to be halted by the object of his desire.
“You're not even going to say hi?”
Turning agonizingly slow Seiji found the blue eyed archer staring at him from over his bow.
“Sorry, I didn't want to disturb you.” Seiji mumbled looking away from the deep blue eyes.
“Liar.”
Touma accusation caught Seiji off guard and he struggled to gain it back while throwing Touma a bewilder glance. /”Liar… What did he… He can't have…/
“Where's Saya?”
“Practicing with Ryo.”
“I see.” Reply Seiji he could hear Touma's feet padding across the grass in his direction. “I was wondering why she wasn't out here with you.” /Run, just run away./
“Seiji?” There was a concern and determination in that voice that made Seiji's heart drop into his stomach.
“I'll leave you to practice,” He tried quickly but Touma was faster his arm snagging Seiji's before his could take more than a step. “Touma what-“
“Why are you avoiding me?”
************************************
It came out harsher then he meant it to, but Touma couldn't let this go any longer.
“Wha… What?”
“At first,” Touma started looking away from but not releasing the blond. “I thought it was Saya. You didn't seem to care for her, but I just kept hoping you'd come around. And then when you did I realized it wasn't her you were avoiding… it was me.”
Touma looked back at his best friend in time to see him flinch.
“What… what have I done? I went over the past month or so trying to figure out why, but…”
“It nothing you've done Tou.” Seiji cut in turning back to face Touma. His eyes the mask, one that he'd seemed to have strength since the end of the battle with Arago, firmly in place giving Touma absolutely no insight into his friend's feelings.
They stood there staring into each other eyes trying to figure out what the other was thinking.
“I love you Seiji Date.” Touma said watching as a flash of something flickered across Seiji's face, though it disappeared the instant he continued speaking. “You are one of the most important people in my life, you're my best friend and… and I want you to always be my best friend.”
“And there the problem,” Seiji's voice was wavering filled with doubt but conviction a combination Touma didn't think he'd ever heard in Seiji's voice before. “Because I don't want to be just your best friend Touma.”
Touma eyes widened in confusion at that statement before Seiji made in meaning crystal clear as he leaned into Touma placing a sword worn hand on the younger teens face.
“I..” Seiji whispered as he leaned closer to the uncomprehending archer “Love…”
“…Seiji…”
“You.” Touma eyes widened further if possible as his best friend lips meet his. The touch was light, feathery almost until Seiji's hand on his cheek curved around to bring their lips into more contact.
/What?! No… That can't… Seiji isn't… Seiji Date would never… He's… He's kissing me./
The thought streaking through the archers mind suddenly slammed together and with it a complete understanding of what was happening.
Pulling away Seiji paused his face a hair's breath from Touma's both of them panting slightly.
“Now do you-“ The sound that caught both of their attention stopping Touma's heart the next.
“Tou… Touma…”
“Saya…” Her golden eyes widened like a frighten rabbit, unshed tears clouding over her orbs before she bolted calling back,
“I'm… I'm sorry!”
Both trooper stood frozen unable to move as they watched her retreating form disappeared through the brush.
“Touma… I…” Seiji's voice seemed to snap Touma out of whatever daze he'd been in and instantly he only thoughts were to catch her, stop her, try and make her understand and his body responded just a suddenly pulling from Seiji's grasp before racing after her. But only a few feet into the tree something stopped him, turning Touma gazed on the poised figure of Seiji Date. Seiji Date his best friends, his brother in arms. Touma nearly grabbed his chest at the splitting pain the stretched from his heart. He knew his heart was tugging him in two different direct and for second he wasn't sure which side held more sway until the tearful vision that had just depart replayed in his head. Looking away from the blonde who watched him as if his next move could break him Touma whispered.
“Seiji…” Blue meet violet in the shimmering of the summer sun. “I'm sorry.”
Jerking his eyes away Touma sprinted from the field tears burning his vision as his insides churned. /Gods… How… I…I just can't… Seiji please… I'm…/
*****************************************
It hurt, he knew it would, but it had to happen. He had to let it happen. /Korin…/
Instantly the bearer of Korin stiffened against the bark of a cedar tree making it quite clear he'd heard him.
“What?” Seiji muttered somehow knowing Anubis was close enough to hear it.
/I am sorry./
“Yes I'm sure you are. Leave me the hell alone Anubis.” The coldness Seiji tried to project didn't hold its normal spite and Anubis felt for him.
/I can't,/ Anubis continued to speak though the fragile link between them. Gather all the feeling he knew he needed to display the bearer of Yami continued. /I could never leave you alone, Seiji./
That gained the blonde's undivided attention.
“What… What was that?”
/You know what it was Seiji and you understand it as well though maybe now better then you would have before./
“But how, how could you possible…”
“We masho have feelings too Date...” Anubis grumbled as he stepped from the shadow he'd been hiding in.
Seiji gazed into his eyes, composure nearly returned and with the acceptation of the red eyes and tear tracks no one would have ever suspected he'd just had his heart broken.
They stared at each much like Seiji and Touma had done mere moments ago.
“What… What do you want me to do?”
“Come with me.” Anubis said without hesitant.
Seiji looked away unsure though it was obvious he was considering it.
“I… I can't…”
“Yes, you can Date,” Anubis reassured stepping closer his hand extended to the blonde.
“Come with me. That's all I ask, Seiji.”
************************************************
She stopped her hands clutching the nearest tree. She wasn't sure where she was and didn't care.
/He kissed him, he kissed him, Seiji… Seiji kissed Touma!! And Touma didn't pull away! He didn't… Gods, what am I going to do? Touma… Please…/
He knees wobbled before they gave out dropping her with hard thud to the earth.
/ “This is my best friend Seiji Date.” Seiji Date…/ Saya grip on the poor tree tightened her nails ripping into the barks as her pain mounted. /I can't… Touma… I can't…/
“Say… Saya…?”
She couldn't turn to meet that voice, she couldn't let him see her looking so pathetic.
“Sa-“
“What!” It had come out hard then she had meant. /Who cares let him hurt, he can't know our pain./ a vicious little voice inside her, sound a lot like Shinu hissed. In fact she was quite sure it was him as Ojo hushed him. It was enough to make her release a small laugh before she could halt it.
“I…” The blue haired trooper faltered, “I'm sorry.” His voice sound rough as if he'd been crying. /Has he been crying?/
/That all you can say… Your about to leave me for you best friend and… Stop it… /
The silence stretched on as she clutched the tree trying to gain control over herself.
“Do… do you love him?” It was the only thing that seemed important at the moment.
“Wha…”
“Do you love Seiji?” Saya repeated as she managed to stand her back still to the archer.
“Yes.” Her legs nearly gave out again, but she forced them to stay firm. Turning she managed a watery smile, her eyes so full of tears that she couldn't see him clearly.
“Then I happy for you. I know he…”
“Wait, you don't understand-“ Touma started toward her but she turned from him feeling those unwanted tears slid down her cheeks.
“There's nothing to understand, I'm losing you to the better… better person. I know he love you and…” Touma's hand caught her shoulder keeping her from walking away.
“You're not losing me.”
“Wha…”
“I do love him, Saya, but I… I love you too.”
“I don't…
“You're the one I'm with now. I know I care about him, in fact I'm sure I love Seiji, but as a brother, as my best friend.” He stated clearly turning her toward him. “Not the same way… never in the same way I love you.”
/ `…never…'/
“I…” She faltered as he reached to brush the tears from her eyes.
“I… I fell in love with you Saya Resario, you.”
Saya opened her mouth wanting to return those sentiments, but she simply could find the words.
Cupping her cheek Touma leaned down plants several smoothing kisses on her face before descending upon her lips. The taste was distorted by not only her tears but his; still it was sweetest she could ever remember. /You were crying…/
“I love you,” she whispered before she even realized their lips had parted.
“Saya…” Touma started to lean down to kiss her again when a faint buzz filled Saya's ear. Touma's head snapped up as he scanned the woods around them before stopping his eyes widening. She turned to catch whatever had startled him and as she realized that that faint buzzing had been mind speak her chest tightened.
/He… Seiji wouldn't…/ Finally locating the blonde she gasped at the sight. Streams of sorrow pour from Seiji eyes his entire form the figure of defeat, but what startled her even more was the armored arm of Yami draped over his shoulder.
“Seiji…” She whispered trying to understand what was being said as the waning telepathy continued.
“You can't… “Touma voice started in a low mutter before exploding into a heart wrenching cry. “No Seiji don't!”
^Tell the others I'll be fine.^
/What… Seiji?!/
“Seiji wait!” Saya yelled as Touma sprinted toward the two distant figures but it was to no avail as they vanished, Yami whooshing them away.
“Seiji!!”
/Seiji…/
^Good bye Tenku, Saya.^
 
^Take care of Touma, Saya.^
 
The end.
 
DL: Well there you have it! And yes that was how I planned to end then story so there!
Seiji: That sucks what happens now.
Anubis: Why you and I… *whisper into Seiji's ear and Seiji promptly faints*
Shin: *sigh* well that it. The separate epilogue is coming soon… Yeah right.
DL: Shin…
Shin: Sorry. Oh yes and after that it's back to work on Between Dates.
DL: See I keep my promises.
Shu: Are you seriously going to end this story like that.
DL: Yep, though I had original planned to make a trilogy. Oh well.
Ryo: No `oh well' start writing.
DL Naw… don't want to.
Nasty: She's so stubborn. Oh well… if you would could you please leave a review. If not I hope you enjoyed Yoroi of Death and Rebirth and stay tuned to Y of D.R. Part 2 Hands of Fate: Gaiden.
DL: Hey I said I wasn't writing that!!
Touma: Yeah right.
Cast: Ja ne Minna!