Shugo Chara! Middle School!

by MagicalGirl4

Amu and the rest of the gang discover that the very fate of Guardian Characters lies in their hands, just as soon as they enter Middle School! And to make matters worse, they're going up against something much stronger than Easter ever was... [Continuation from mostly the Manga] (Amuto, Rimahiko, Kutau, Yairi, TadaseXOC)

10. The First Battle

Magical girl4: Hey guys! You know what's really weird?

Amu: What?

Magical girl4: … I had a dream about Shugo Chara last night, and it was also about Gauken Alice and A Certain Scientific Railgun…

Ikuto: What the hell are they?

Magical girl4: Just other anime…

Ikuto: I think anime has driven you crazy.

Magical girl4: You're not wrong.

Hikaru: Disclaimer. Magical girl4 doesn't own Shugo Chara or any of its characters. She only owns the plot, Akiko, Akihiro, Zen, Aku, Kuro and the other two OC's that will be mentioned in this chapter, Halcyon and Orion.

Amu: A special shout out to Turtlegirl 945, MagicWriterK, Rose girl and im awesome for leaving the reviews! … Seriously, whenever Magi gets a review, it looks like she will die from happiness.

Magical girl4: Hey, it's true, thank you so much for the reviews! They're always appreciated.

Rima: Can we just start the chapter now? Anyway, this is chapter ten of Shugo Chara! Middle School! Happy reading.

Note: Sorry for the really long wait! And to make it up to you! This chapter is really long! Grab some snacks if you want, and enjoy the show! PS: Merry Christmas!

(Extra Note: In this chapter, Akiko's real name is stated)

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Chapter 10

The First Battle

---

Hontou no Jibun

"Losing is horrible... But because it hurts, you can become stronger!

There are lots of times you'll lose, but if you know that, you'll be able to shine anyway!"

.:Akiko:.

This is finally it. Our first battle against evil will begin tonight.

Butterflies were jumping around in my stomach, and I tried to fix my hair without my nerves getting the best of me. I was sort of fearful... but excited as well. As I pulled the elastic around my hair, I let out a jittery sigh. This fluttery feeling didn't feel all that nice; maybe because I doubted that we were going to be able to get the Embryo... But, I also had hope inside of me that we were. Ugh, I hated feeling conflicted...

My hands eventually stopped shaking as I flattened out my blazer. My legs also began to shake, but I took a deep breath so as to stop it, and walked towards my door.

"Araceli, get down here!" boomed a voice from downstairs.

I froze from the scream. My eyes began to dart all over the place in hopes to escape.

"We know you're up there," came another voice. "There's no way you would leave at an earlier time."

With a sigh, I trudged my way out of my room, resting at the stop of the stairway and meeting the faces that I had no intention of seeing. "Good morning... Halcyon, Orion."

I walked down the stairs as I muttered their names, Halcyon embracing me as soon I reached the bottom. "Araceli!" she called, grinning. While she hugged me, I stood awkwardly, glancing up at Orion who sat near my bench. He smiled at me and I rolled my eyes. Glancing down, I tried to pull the stream of jet black hair away. Her jade green eyes glanced up at me, a soft smile on her pale face. We parted and she giggled cheekily. "It's good to see you again."

"Yeah... I guess," I muttered, grabbing my bag which rested beside me on the hand railing.

As I walked over to grab my lunch from the table, she looked up at me. "How have you been going, adjusting with school and everything? Oh, and getting the Guardians on your side," she asked intently, a slight stuck up edge to her voice.

"I've been fine, really," I cut it short, stuffing everything into a small compartment. "I can't believe you two are here though..."

"Of course we are," Orion grinned, his navy eyes reflecting glee and brown shaggy hair, for the most part, covering them. He rested his elbow on the table and I looked at him, irritated. "We're your guardians, we need to regularly check up on you here on Earth."

I tried not to roll my eyes. "I know that. But it feels so weird to see you... like this."

Halcyon hummed. "You're right, it's probably strange seeing us in this house. But don't think that we don't feel the same; we're not used to seeing you in this form."

I raised an eyebrow. "Yeah, ok. Now can I try and get ready for school now?" I asked as I pushed past the two of them, walking to the door.

Orion laughed at this. "We're happy to see you again too, Araceli."

I huffed, slipping on my school shoes. "By the way, I told you to call me Hikari-san," I stated, putting a hand on my hip.

"But why should we?" Halcyon asked, actually looking curious. "We've known you know for so long. And we should at least be able to call you by your first name in Japanese too."

I felt empty while looking at her, and looked off to the side. "Listen... I already told you two that I can live by myself, I don't need your protection..." I whispered, trying to get them to stop looking at me.

Orion's snicker rang through my ears. "We know that you need our guidance. Zen specifically said we need to be here for you." I looked up at him with an eyebrow raised, and he sighed. "After all, we bought this house for you and pretended to be your parents so you could attend school. You should be grateful towards us," he pointed out as he munched on an apple. My apple that he grabbed from the fruit bowl.

I blushed at this, attempting to shoot down any of his points. "Yeah, well... I can still manage myself! I don't need help from 500 year old bags like yourselves!"

I heard Halcyon scoff. "Huh, that was rude. It's hard trying to maintain a scaly tail and luxurious hair for that long."

"And hard to keep a horn and hooves polished," Orion added.

Sure, that's just typical mermaid and unicorn talk. I snorted and was about to open the door, until Halcyon spoke.

"Why does it always have to be difficult with you...?" she muttered softly. "We just want to help... and try to be your friend again."

Friends… My grip softened on the door handle.

Closing my eyes, I turned around to face them. "You know what... It's not me that's making things difficult, it's you guys. You don't have to follow orders from Zen all the time."

Halcyon smiled sadly. "Of course we do. Besides, he's a father figure to all three of us."

Orion finished off the apple. "She's right, Celi. We've known each other for a long time, and it's time you started considering us like family again."

I grumble at the sound of my nickname, one he hadn't called in a while. "I... I guess you're right," I admit, embarrassed as I was.

Halcyon walked up to me. "Good. Now, are you going to tell Zen that you wouldn't mind us being here more often?" she asked, her eyes turning an icy blue colour. Oh, so she was using her persuasion powers on me? Yeah, like that would work.

I giver her a shrug. "Sure, why not." Hey, I wasn't affected by her power at all. I did it by my own free will... I think.

Halcyon looked happy, and Orion smiled genuinely at the two of us.

Reluctantly, I considered asking them for important information... "What are your Japanese names, by the way?"

"Hanako," Halcyon said, flicking her hair confidently.

"Katsu," Orion said, straightening his back and crossing his arms.

I nodded, thinking over the names so I could get used to them. Hopefully, if I'm ever talking to the others, I don't let their real names slip. Orion... Uh, Katsu, turned his head to the clock on the wall. "Hey. I think you should get going. Like, now," he said to me, gesturing to the door.

I grimaced, putting a hand to my head. "Oh crap. I need to go. And by the way, I better not see you when I get back from school!" I shouted at them, slamming the door shut.

---

.:Amu:.

"Amu-chan, what are you worrying about? It's not like you haven't done this before!" yells Ran, obviously trying to figure out what's wrong with me.

I turn my head away from her, slinging my bag over my shoulder. Unknown to the people around me, I was deep in thought. The battle we are going to have tonight was setting me on edge, and not to mention the three tests I had to do. Ugh, school life does not mix well with battling evil...

Ran's calling for my name began to fade out. "Amu? Ammuuu…"

Ikuto must have it easy now that he's out of school... I've been wondering what he's up to in his spare time, but I haven't texted him to see.

"Amu, are you there? Amu-chan!"

Wait. Why do I want to know what he's been doing? Why am I even thinking of him? Is it the effect of the study session, or is it because its school related? Ah, I don't know, quick, think of something other than Ikuto! Umm… Maths test! An acute angle is less than 90 degrees and an obtuse is more than 90 degrees, but less than 180 degree-!

-ARGH?! What the hell is screeching in my ear?!

"-MU?! AMU-CHAN-!" My hand shot out and grabbed Ran's tiny figure.

"Just hush for a minute Ran! Don't you see I'm thinking?!" I yell. My anger subsides, and I look up from my chara… to see everyone looking at me like I was crazy. I slowly let go of Ran and laughed nervously, walking away quickly and shoving my hands into my pockets, ignoring the questioning faces pointed at me. She is so going to get it later...

"Hey, Amu-chan!" I hear a voice call from behind. Agh, RAN! That idiot!

"Be quiet or I swear I will throw you away and-!"

Nagihiko was then beside me. "Amu, why are you screaming?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.

My eyes widen in embarrassment and I shake my hands.

"N-Nagi?! I swear I didn't know it was you! I thought it was Ran trying to annoy me!" I stutter out, going all red.

He smiles and waves his hand. "It's all good."

I then see a blonde mess of hair running up behind Nagihiko - Rima was falling behind and trying to catch her breath. She finally made it to us. "S…Sorry, it was… his fault," she panted, pointing to Nagihiko.

I smiled at her, trying not to laugh at the fact that she was blaming Nagi. "That's ok."

Nagihiko looked at her. "You know Rima, you can only keep up with me if you learn how to run. You really need to get into shape," he said, knocking her head lightly. Her face snapped up and she growled.

"I know how to run, and don't say that I need to get into shape," Kusukusu giggled and held her stomach; Rima gave her a quick look to stop laughing. I just looked at Nagi and he shrugged.

"But it's true, if you want to run faster than me someday, you will have to start doing exercise," he said smiling at her. She just rolled her eyes and looked away.

"Shut up purple head, I never said that I wanted to run faster than you. I just said it would be nice if you were slow for once."

"I'm never slow though. I could only ever be slow if I rode on your back."

She growled at him, unexpectedly more aggressive this morning. Nagihiko backed up slightly, and I would be lying if I said I didn't either. "Then what would the point of that be?" she hissed. She then turned around, flicking her hair, and walked up to the school. Nagihiko and I just stared at each other, surprised by how out curt she was being.

We continued to walk behind her and to the school, while Nagi just watched her nervously, his eyes wide open... He probably felt guilty, but didn't want to say anything it case he angered her even more. It's been awhile since she's acted that sassy, but we didn't mention it to her. Finally, we made it to school and met up with Tadase, Akiko and Kukai. We all exchanged feelings about tonight and our battle tactics, strategies and so on and so forth. Classes and tests went past like a blur, and before I knew it, it was lunch, which meant that the day was edging closer towards night.

"To the Royal Garden it is!" announced Akiko, receiving weird stares from other people in the courtyard. She smirked at her newfound confidence. She was no longer using that calm exterior, which was probably bothering her a lot. Not only that, but she kept on saying to Tadase on how much she has improved. What was happening between the two lately? I thought she hated him? Well… At least they are getting along…

We finally made it to the Royal Garden and all sat in our chairs, and all ten of us were here. Why ten exactly? Because Utau came too; she sneaked in and decided to join us for our meeting.

"H-hey, where are all the snacks and candy?!" yelled Yaya as she looked at the table for any sweets.

"Sorry Yaya, we won't be having any food just yet, we need to talk about the matter at hand," apologised Kairi, straightening up some papers. She just grumbled and slumped back in her chair.

"So are we going to start or not?" Utau asked, looking over at Akiko.

She nodded her head and cleared her throat. "Yes, we are. Also, thank you Utau, for coming."

Utau nodded her head and crossed her arms. Akiko continued, "So, as you all know, we'll be fighting in the take-off area tonight. Everyone must be there at 7:00 pm, and be completely ready to go through with what she going to happen next. Are you all going to be ok with that?" Everyone nodded in agreement. "Ok, so once everyone arrives, we'll need to character transform. Amu, you will be Amulet Heart since we practised your new move. Nagihiko, you will be Beat Jumper because you have to perform Jacks Power Ball. And Utau, you can transform with El since we need you in the sky and to purify," Akiko took a deep breath, before she let the last thing out of her system. "And lastly, for Hikaru, we don't necessarily have a tactic for you yet, since we don't know how your transformation behaves. But, we'll see tonight."

Hikaru nodded slowly at Akiko, then turned to his chara, who once again scratched his back. "Akihiro, what's wrong with your back? You keep tugging at it?" Hikaru murmured, concerned.

Akihiro just laughed nervously at his owner. "Hey, you'll find out real soon," he grinned uneasily, then he noticed Akiko from across the table. He cleared his throat and flew up to her. "Um… Akiko-san? I think Hikaru would be able to stay in the air."

She frowned. "What do you mean Aki?" she asked, leaning closer to him.

"W-what I mean is… AH!" he groaned and hunched over.

"Aki!" shouted Hikaru. He got up from his seat and ran over to his chara. "W-what's the matter with him?!" he stuttered, fear evident in his eyes. Dia rushed over to them.

"Akihiro, what's wrong?!" she asked, holding him.

The blond chara winced. "D-Dia… It hurts."

Before any of us could react to that, a small glow began to surround Akihiro. Hikaru and Dia gasped, and I squinted at the small yellow light. The light dimmed away, and revealed that he had… Angel wings?!

"Wha...?" I stutter out, looking at the grinning Aki who was lightly touching his new… décor? Everyone looked at him, slightly mesmerised.

He laughed, throwing his hands up in the air. "Yes... Finally!"

Hikaru let out a breath of relief, while Akiko stared at him, curious. "I think I might know what he is..." she said with a smile. "He's like an angel of light chara. I guess Hikaru wanted to be confident and innocent at the same time." Hikaru blushed at her comment.

Dia gazed at the new arrangement of Aki. She giggled softly, and he smiled at her. His wings were not too small, but not that big either, about the size of himself in fact. "I like it..." Dia whispered.

He grinned. "Well, I'm glad you do."

"EXCUSE ME!" boomed a voice. My eyes darted over to Utau, too see that another angel chara was making all the noise. "I am the only angel around here! No one else can steal my place as El the Angel of Justice and Love!" El announced, screaming from across the room. She flew over to him, frowning and judging his wings.

Akihiro just smiled and patted her head. "Yeah, but don't worry, I won't take your place! I'll be the Angel of Light and Joy!" he laughed. El looked at him sceptically, then smiled at him.

"… Fine! It will be a pleasure doing business with you angel number two! Welcome aboard the Elite Angel Squad!" El beamed, shaking his hand. Dia just smiled at the two, eye twitching at the sudden interruption.

"Ok, thanks for letting me join! But… who else is in this Elite Angel Squad?" Aki asked, tilting his head to the side.

"Just you and me!" El proclaimed. The two of them just started singing their apparent theme song, "EL, The Angel of Love! AKI, The Angel of Joy! TOGETHER, they make…! THE ELITE ANGEL SQUAD~!"

Dia felt left out at this. "Hey Aki, what happened to our conversation?!" she asked, stretching out her hand. The two of them just kept on singing and she sighed.

Everyone, including myself, laughed at the three. I looked back to Hikaru, who was of course, a little taken back.

"So Hikaru, you think you are ready to transform?" Akiko asked the boy, nodding over to his chara.

Hikaru nodded slowly and scratched his head. "Yes, I am ready. But does this mean I also have to fly?" he asked her, going pale.

Akiko nodded, while I reassured him, "It'll be ok, Hikaru. Kukai, Utau and I will be with you," I said with a smile. He looked up at me, grateful.

"Alright, remember everyone,: Akiko announced. "We will be fighting a lot of X-eggs, ones that are more powerful and dangerous. So be prepared, please," she stated, glancing cautiously around the room. Everyone nodded, determined looks still present on their faces. "… Alright then… Meeting dismissed!"

We all said our goodbyes. Dia was slightly disappointed saying goodbye to Akihiro, although they would see each other soon. Utau was also leaving with her guardian characters. "See y'all tonight!" shouted Il, obviously pumped up.

"Goodbye to you all! Let's fight with all our might!" winked El, waving a pink and white flag.

"See you all tonight, don't be late," Utau said sharply.

I slightly shuddered at her cold gaze, while Kukai just smirked at her. "Whatever, I'll be the first one to get there anyway," he declared, earning Utau to turn on her heel.

"Is this a challenge?" she asked sceptically.

"YOU BET!" he grinned.

She smirked, and turned away. "Fine, challenge accepted."

I sighed and turned to Kukai. "Do you have to make everything a competition with her?" I ask.

He just laughed. "Of course! It just makes things more interesting!"

A smile and roll my eyes. Typical Kukai. "Let's get back to school then!" I say to everyone. They all nod their heads and we start walking. Just at that moment, the middle school's bell rang. "Ah, lunch is over?! We better hurry!" I shout.

"Not if I get there first!" screams Kukai, running ahead.

"HEY, are you kidding me?!" I scream while running after him, totally forgetting about everyone else. Nagihiko then ran up from behind us behind us, holding Rima... like a bride?!

Rima was blushing hard, and trying to squirm out of his grip. "W-what are you doing?! LET ME GO!" she screamed, horrified.

He just laughed cheekily. "You won't be able to keep up with Amu, Kukai and I. So I thought I'd give you a lift!"

Rima just kept struggling, but I couldn't help but laugh at them. "A-Amu?! Don't laugh!" Rima shouted.

I try to stop and cover my mouth,."S-sorry Rima, you just look so cute like that in Nagi's arms."

She gasped at this, while Nagihiko just smiled awkwardly. Her face went red, "YOU STUPID PURPLE HEAD, this is your entire fault!" she shouted again. "You even made me get mad this morning, you're being ridiculous...!" She continued to struggle, until Nagihiko gently put her on the ground. "And you Amu, you also need to be quiet," she snipped. After realizing what she said, she then looked away quickly. We all froze, and Nagihiko gazed at her apologetically. I bit my lip, willing to not be angry with her.

Kukai tried to break up the tension. "Uh… C'mon Mashiro, don't be angry at Hinamori like that. You guys are best friends after all." I don't say anything back; I keep my mouth shut tight.

"... We are obviously not best friends anymore," she muttered

My heart stopped. I looked at her, wide eyed and hurt. She wasn't facing me, but I felt like I couldn't call to her anyway; I was lost for words. My eyes just continued to bore into the side of her head, and the intense feeling of hurt troubled my chest. Footsteps then echoed from behind us, but I didn't even bother to look away from Rima. "Hey guys!" grinned Akiko. Tadase was by her side, who seemed to also be smiling at the rest of us. I looked to her slowly, my mouth trembling. Her eyes widened, seeing that I was upset. "What's wrong, Amu?" She asked, walking up to me. Rima seemed to glare at her from the side.

I sighed, trying to blink away any tears. "It's nothing, let's just go now." I said to her, the frown on her face deepening. She looked at everyone, concerned. Before she was about to ask what happened, Kukai practically saved the day.

"What took you so long?" He asked, putting his hands on his waist.

Tadase had glanced at everyone, not knowing if it was really right to answer him, "Nothing really, it's just that Hikari-san and I were discussing a few more things."

My eyes darted between Tadase and Akiko, but the brunette beside me managed to distract me with a smile. "Well, I think we should get going."

She began to walk, away and I followed behind in suit, my head lowered. All of us followed, with Rima trailing behind the group. As I looked back at her, I noticed hair was covering her eyes. My heart panged at this, and I couldn't look at her any more. In front of me, Akiko turned her head slightly to see how I was going. She was clearly worried. I didn't give her any sign to say that I was ok.

---

It was really… Awkward, walking home from school.

Why exactly?

Well, one, I was walking with Rima.

Two, I was also walking with Akiko.

Three, Nagihiko was also walking with us.

And four, Tadase was with us too...

Brilliant…

Akiko doesn't want me walking with Tadase alone at all, so of course she tagged along. Rima doesn't want me walking with Akiko, but our friendship status is complicated right now, so I'm not sure if she even considers me a friend anymore... And Akiko claims to be my best friend, so naturally, Rima is jealous. And of course, Rima also doesn't like Nagihiko. Even if I just had Nagi walk with me, Rima would still want to come along. And Akiko would come along no matter what, same with Tadase... To be completely honest, I think it would be better if I just walked alone for once. Is that too much to ask? Why is it always me that everyone wants?

I turn to look at everyone; Akiko, Tadase and Nagihiko smiled gently at me, while Rima just looked away quickly so I wouldn't see her face. She must be embarrassed now... I didn't mean to laugh at her and say she looked cute with Nagihiko... It just came out of nowhere.

"Hey, guys so... what happened today after our meeting?" asked Akiko, trying to play it casual.

Tensing, I looked at her from the side. Rima raised an eyebrow at her, and spoke before Nagihiko could say anything positive, "Nothing, it didn't really concern you anyway," she said nonchalantly, closing her eyes. I bit my lip at this, and glanced at Akiko.

She looked offended, a clear frown on her face. "And why not? I was just asking because Amu looked upset then, and everyone was weirdly quiet."

Nagihiko and I glance at each other quickly. "There was just a small disagreement between us," he answered, looking reassuringly at Akiko. "It wasn't anything too major," he added, to which Akiko looked at him with a surprised look, and then quickly turned to worry.

Rima scoffed and rolled her eyes at Nagihiko. And for once, he didn't respond to that.

However Akiko kept pushing it. "A disagreement...? Are you sure everything's ok? You know we have to fight as a team tonight."

This made Rima's eyebrow twitch. "Yes, it's fine, Hikari."

She stopped to stare at her, not liking the tone of voice she just used. I cringed back in fear, shrinking my shoulders.

"Well, something clearly isn't right," Tadase pointed out. We all stared at him, surprised he had said anything. "Mashiro-san is acting coldly, and Amu hasn't said a word this entire time."

They all looked at me then, and I shrunk back even further.

"Well... that's because it's about Amu," Rima said.

Akiko and I turned to her. "Huh? What do you mean, it's about Amu?" Akiko repeated. Rima grew more agitated.

The small blonde glared at her. "Amu and I just had a falling out. Like I said, it has nothing to do with you," she remarked, rolling her eyes.

This only seemed to irritate Akiko more, "Well, no... I guess it doesn't have to do with me. But the point is, Amu's my friend, and she looked upset before, so naturally I'm concerned about her."

"Are you really her friend?" Rima growled, glaring at the brunette. We all took a step back at this, but most notably, Akiko did. "You've only been here for two weeks, and yet you already consider her your best friend. How is it we are supposed to trust you still, anyway?"

Tadase frowned at Rima. "Mashiro-san, that's behind us now. Because what we've experienced, we know we can trust Hikari-san."

Rima raised an eyebrow at him. "Oh really? Well then, I still don't trust her."

Akiko's eyes widened at the blonde. "Huh..." she murmured, turning away from the glaring blond. "Well that's not my problem."

Rima's mouth dropped open, and before she could say anything, Nagihiko stepped in. "Please, Rima," he said, looking at her in the eye. "Just stop, we don't need this right now."

Her glare grew, but instead of retorting, she turned away. "C'mon Amu, let's just leave..." she whispered, looking behind her.

I could only stare at her, dumbfounded. Why is it that she wanted to be with me now? "I... um..."

She turned away, and looked at the ground, realising her mistake. "Ah, I see..." she muttered, beginning to walk away.

"W-wait, Rima," I stutter out, making her stop. I really didn't want to leave her behind, I would feel guilty of she did. But at the same time, I didn't know what to say to her. I could apologise for what she said, but her words really did hurt me... so I don't know if I could bring myself to say sorry first.

Rima stared at me, and it seemed as though she was remorseful. She closed her eyes, "Don't worry about it, I'll leave you, Tadase, Nagihiko and the brat alone."

"Brat...?" I hear Akiko whisper, flinching from the tone of her voice. "I'm the brat?!" She walked up to Rima. "I'm not the one acting jealous right now!" she shouted, looking down at her and crossing her arms firmly.

Rima just rolled her eyes. "It doesn't matter anymore. Amu and I have always been true friends... even though..." she stopped on her words, and I could see tears beginning to build up in her eyes. "Though... I guess we're not even friends anymore..." Her entire face with red, and she covered her eyes with her arm. We stood there in shock, and you could tell from Nagihiko's face that this wasn't an act she was putting on.

She then ran away, sprinting down the street and turning the corner. "Rima!" I called out, attempting to run after her. But I stopped myself, watching her tiny body run faster than it ever has. "Rima..."

Akiko turned to me, apologetic. "Amu, I'm sorry..." she whispered. "I didn't mean to lash out like that."

I turned to her, my eyes drooping and mouth trembling again. I pushed it all down, saying it wasn't her fault.

"Amu, I'm going to check up on Mashiro-san later tonight through text," Tadase said, trying to smiling reassuringly. I shrugged, and said thank you.

"It'll be ok, Amu. I know everything will work out between you and Rima," Nagihiko said, looking at me closely with his hazel eyes. Instantly, I was warmed by them. But, I still felt a pit in my stomach, unsure if I was ever going to be on good terms with her again...

"I'm going to go now..." I whisper, pointing to the next street. They all asked if I was ok, and I said I was fine.

So I left them, my chara's hovering over me worriedly.

Ran, Miki, Su or Dia didn't speak at all to me since the argument started. And I didn't blame them. I could hear them talking to each other, murmuring whispers of what to say to me, such as encouragement, but they probably knew I was tired. I just needed to get home.

The next street made me turn to a left, and I slung my bag slung over my shoulder, my head lowering.

"Amu."

I stopped walking, and turn around slowly.

Ikuto.

He was here again. Just, standing in front of me, casually. But as soon as he saw my face, his smile disappeared. "Hey, what's the matter?" he asked gently, approaching me slowly. I let my eyes veer off somewhere else.

"Nothing's the matter, Ikuto. It's just…" He stayed quiet so I could continue, but nothing came out of my mouth.

"Don't want to talk about it...?" he asked, frowning in concern. I just numbly shook my head. "Are you nervous about the battle tonight?" he asked again.

My stomach couldn't help but do a flip. "Um... Yeah, it's just that," I say, averting my eyes.

"Y'know, I have a feeling that's not the truth. I can kinda tell when you're lying," and he smiled, coming closer to my face.

I blush a little more in embarrassment, not even realising our noses were practically touching. I step back a little, "H-hey, what was that for?" I ask, trying not to smile.

His warm breath tickles the side of my face. "I dunno, maybe because I like you." This made my face flush scarlet, and I fidgeted with my hands. He stood back up again, smiling sympathetically. "Seriously though, what's wrong? Why are you upset?

I sighed in reluctance. "Ikuto, nothing's wrong... There was just, a small argument that I had with Rima and Akiko..."

His eyebrows rose in surprise. "Wait, really?"

I looked at my shoes. "Yeah..."

"... I take it that it wasn't just a 'small' argument?"

I looked up at him. He probably had a feeling that this was bigger than I made it seem. I mean, I never fought with my friends, so it felt like something really strange, and just foreign in general. Nonetheless, Ikuto was concerned, and I could appreciate his sympathy. "Yeah... it was pretty bad. We never fight... So, it got intense."

He nodded. "So, it was Hikari and Mashiro?" I nod back. "I guess that might be obvious. Were they fighting over you?"

My eyebrows raise. "W-well... Yeah, how could you tell?"

He made a crooked smile. "I know that the both of them are very fond of you, it was bound to happen eventually."

This made me smile back, and I look at my feet, laughing it away. "Yeah, I guess you're right."

We stood there for a moment, a silence washing over us. From the corner of my eye, I could see my chara's giggling and smiling. "Hey, I'll walk you home," Ikuto offered, walking up beside me.

I consider this for a moment, but take a step back and shake my head. "No way, my dad will have a fit if he sees you again." Honestly, I tried not to laugh at the thought.

Ikuto smiled and looked down the street. "Don't worry, I won't go into your house, I'll just… Drop you off." Again, I thought about it, then nodded my head. He smirked, and we start walking along the street. We walked in silence, nothing but our footsteps to be heard and a few passing cars. Heaps of people passed us, like a whole crowd. Few of them spotted the two of us, either smiling or frowning. It was uncomfortable to say the least, and I drifted closer to Ikuto. He made me feel safer.

I mean... we probably do look strange together, I suppose.

My hair and eye colour sort of clashes with his... Yet again, blue and pink. The two most basic colours for a boy and a girl. They still sort of fit. People wouldn't have suspected if we were siblings, since our appearances were so different. Perhaps, they could of thought we were a couple? But that might have been strange; I look so young compared to Ikuto.

But we aren't a couple.

At least… Not yet.

Oh no, wait, did I really just say that?

I sigh inwardly and look away. I let my eyes wander aimlessly around the street, looking for something else to think about.

We finally got to my house, and I was about to say goodbye to Ikuto and thank him, until he did the honours and again pressed his lips against my cheek. I blushed heavily, found it hard to not shout at him, cause if I did, my dad would have come running out of the living room with a newspaper roll. "See ya later," Ikuto said, winking. I was so shocked I didn't even see him leave the street.

"AH! That was so cute! Amu-chan and Ikuto-kun were made for each other desu~!" squealed Su, her cheeks going rosy.

"Miki! You should have taken a photo of them and drawn it!" screamed Ran.

"I would if I had a camera!"

Their voices made me snap out of it, and I laughed, rolling my eyes and looking at the setting sun.

It reminded me of tonight, however, if I was really ready or not...

I was hoping I was.

---

.:?:.

Dark matter circled around me.

I held my breath and closed my eyes, ready for his anger. "Incompetent fool... I want answers, not questions!" he snarled. His voice shook the floor I was standing on.

Slowly, I opened my eyes. "... How am I supposed to provide you with information if I don't know what I am looking for?"

Again, he didn't take anything I said into consideration. "Don't get smart with me. Where will they be? When will they fight?! ANSWER ME!"

I grit my teeth, agitation rising. "I don't know yet. What I do know is that they are fighting tonight. When the Embryo is called, I'll know."

"How will you know?"

"Believe me… I can tell."

There was a pause …"Are you going to fight them?"

"I need time to heal myself... I underestimated her strength while in human form, and the bitch burnt my stomach and back. Instead, I'll send an army of X-eggs." I stood up from my bowing position, ready to leave the empty space.

"Imbecile, they can't function by themselves!" I jumped back cautiously, making sure to not get injured. "SEND AN OGRE!"

A low growl emanated from my throat, but I did as I was told. I extended my palms and shot out a purple beam, conjuring up a black figure; its forearms were large, and its entire structure towered over me. "This will do... Control them, but allow their full power to be used," the Darkness muttered to it.

The beast in front of me nodded slowly. I told it to get ready. Then, it vanished.

I started to walk away slowly, watching the Darkness fade, until I heard his gruff voice.

"Do not come back empty handed. You know what has to be done," he began. I put my head down and let my hair cover my eyes, it tousling as the wind roared. "You can even come back with a soulless corpse… Do not disappoint me…" I turned around, ready to say something, but I found a solid brick wall in front of me instead.

The Dark Place had faded away, and I found myself in the cold alley way once more.

The moonlight shone through from above and reflected off the walls, creating shadows. This place still smelt like garbage and manure… Gross crap.

I glanced down and saw myself through a puddle on the ground; my black hair was a mess, and my clothing torn and scrunched up.

I noticed my red eye shone with a cruel glimmer to it, and I grinned. I then crinkled my nose in disgust as I looked beyond my eye. I covered it up with my dark hair, hiding it away.

As I was about to make my way put of the alley, my left eye began to burn with excruciating pain. I yelped, pulling my head back and crashing into a wall, howling. I began to shake, shivering uncontrollably as a fiery sensation spread all throughout my body. In trying to move my leg, my foot slipped. I collapsed onto the hard ground, groaning and holding my hurt rib. I use my only shred of strength to push me up, leaning against the cold wall and facing a dark, large figure in front of me. Panting, I try to catch my breath.

"I-I… It's coming," I sputter, hot saliva mixing with the cold wet air. "The Embryo… It's been called." I shakily point to the exit of the alley way, while the ogre nodded and slumped away. It's heavy feet shook the ground and quivered each puddle it walked by. White, glowing X's followed after it. "K-kill… them all," I cough. My eyes lids became heavy, black and red spots appearing before me, and yet, white and light blue ones appeared too…

My eyes lids finally closed, and I put my head against the wall, drifting off to sleep...

---

.:Utau:.

"Well, I can't believe it," I grin, my violet eyes dancing with victory.

I was at the take-off area with my charas… And there was no Kukai! "I beat him to it! He probably got lost and couldn't find his way here."

El was cheering and waving a pink flag, while Il was bragging and saying how great we were for arriving on time and beating Kukai. "Utau beat the soccer boy!" she cackled. "There is no doubt about it! She pummelled him!" she screamed, pumping her fists towards the air.

"Utau-chan will now transform with El, while Aki while transform with Hikaru! The Elite Angel Squad will reunite!" hollered El, waving her flag like a maniac.

Il then grabbed the flag and started playing with it. "Can you stop saying Elite Angel what's its face?! It's so annoying!" she rasped.

El lunged for her flag, but Il pulled it away and pushed her sister back. "Give my flag back, Il!" she cried, reaching for it.

"I wanna play with it!" she snorted.

"UTAU-CHAN!" El screamed at me, her face pleading for some justice.

I smiled, and turned to the small devil. "Il, give your flag back to your sister," I said, crossing my arms.

She huffed and reluctantly gave the flag back, muttering something along the lines of "Utau isn't fun at all". El grinned immediately and waved it around like a lunatic.

I turned away from the pair, smiling, and letting the cool breeze gently touch my skin.

This better be it, the end to all this nonsense... Everything should return back to normal after this, it has too. Everything went ballistic when Hikari arrived. Ikuto called me, saying he was coming back to Japan and about some crazy girl who was calling him about Amu and a team she was forming. It was almost normal a couple of weeks ago, and it just makes me wonder what would have happened if Hikari never showed up.

But she had to, to obtain the Embryo… If the Embryo didn't exist, then she wouldn't have come to Seiyo anyway. But then again, if it didn't exist, Easter wouldn't of happened in a way… and I would have never met Amu. It also makes me think that maybe everything we've been through has happened for a reason. Like me meeting Amu and fighting here, in this place.

That moment is still so vivid, as though it happened yesterday. Amu and I fighting, everyone determined to win. This place holds memories, like the time Amu first transformed with Dia, and me transforming with El. We fought as enemies… But now, we fight together as allies.

"Hurry the heck up!" I hear someone shout.

I turn around quickly to find the source of the voice. I then see Hikari and Hikaru running, and another certain brunette too running along too. "Glad you could make it," I say slyly to the tall figure approaching me.

Kukai then freezes on the spot when he hears me. "Utau?" he says, looking around. Idiot, he can't even see in the dark. I roll my eyes and shine my phone light in front of his face. He screams and jumps back.

I begin to laugh at him. "Aha! You sounded like a girl!" I cry, while he just flushes and folds his arms.

"SHUT UP! I did not!" he says, turning around.

I just giggle and nudge his shoulder. "Well, that doesn't really mean anything; I did beat you after all."

He stops, and begins to complain sarcastically. "Oh man, I can't believe it! Utau actually beat me!"

I narrow my eyes at him and fold my arms. "Whatever. I have beaten you in the past. You are just to wuss to admit it," I finish with a smirk, to which he raises his eyebrow and smiles.

"Since when am I wuss?" he asks, coming closer.

I stand my ground and look at him straight in the eyes. "From the day you were born Souma Kukai." He just pulls back and laughs his head off. His laugh was so distracting I didn't notice the other two come up to me.

"Hey Utau, are you ready?!" shouts Hikari enthusiastically.

"She isn't replying," Hikaru commented blandly, staring up at me.

Hikari waved her hand in front of my face. Realising where I was, I looked away, my cheeks flaring. "Of course I'm ready, I always am."

"That's great!" she smiled. "By the way, you can just call me Akiko, okay?"

I turn to look at her, her smile growing wider by the second. "Fine," I snip, persuaded by her charm.

"Yeah, and call me Kukai! Not KID," Kukai grumbles. I roll my eyes and smirk.

I then see other figures in the distance. Akiko notices too and squints, smiling. "Looks like they have arrived."

"About time too," I add on.

Amu, Fujisaki, Mashiro, Sanjo, Yuiki and Tadase all came running up to us. Either bright smiles or looks of determination were on their faces. All of their charas coming into show as well, each of them was chattering excitedly. "Utau!" shouts Amu, smiling up at me, I smile gently back. She greets Akiko too, but there was some reluctance in her voice. Akiko also looked uncomfortable. What happened between them? I looked over at Mashiro, who had her gaze on the two of them. I glanced over at Amu, and she went tense and held her breath.

"Oh, Rima, I though you weren't going to show..." Akiko said awkwardly, looking away. Mashiro turned away, folding her arms.

"Of course I would, Hikari..." she said distantly, and overall too formally.

My eyes narrowed. Something did happen.

Akiko was going to say something back, but she closed her mouth quickly, not knowing if she made the right move. I saw Tadase's and Fujisaki's gaze shift over to them.

I interfered quickly, "Something happened between you three," I said sharply, grabbing their attention. "Now, I don't know what it was, but you can either save it for later, or make up right now. Take as long as you need."

Hikaru, Kukai, Yuiki and Sanjo clearly didn't know what was going on. Best keep them out of whatever had happened.

Akiko turned towards Mashiro, hesitantly. "Rima… I'm sorry that I got you so worked up before; it wasn't right for me to do that," she murmured, looking regretful. "But, I just wanted to mention that Amu is a very likeable person, and I want to be as close to her. I'm sorry if I've gotten in the way of your friendship," she finished.

Mashiro looked up at her, both eyebrows raised.

"Akiko is right," spoke up Fujisaki, which made Mashiro turn to him. "I'm sorry too. I was behaving out of line today, and I understand why you reacted the way you did." She looked up at him in awe.

Finally, the short blonde seemed to want to say something.

"M... Me too..." she muttered, looking at the ground. "I'm sorry, Akiko, for being unfair to you. Maybe I overreacted too much. I just wanted to be close to Amu... And to you too, Nagihiko, I'm sorry..." she said. The violet haired boy glanced to her, small smile on his face. "I was being too harsh to you today..." Fujisaki grinned at her, a caring look in his eyes. She moved onto Amu, and her expression changed from sincere to emotional. "And Amu... I'm really sorry about what I said to you... I..." Tears were welling up in her eyes, and Amu couldn't help but do the same. "You're still my best friend. And I want to stay best friends."

Amu ran up and hugged her.

Mashiro returned hug, letting a few tears loose. Amu had even more tears run down her face, but she wiped them away quickly. "You're still my best friend too, Rima," she looked down at her as they hugged.

Everyone else stared at them happily, and Yuiki was getting slightly emotional too. "Wahh! You guys are just too cute!" she cried, running up and hugging them. Amu laughed and joined her in the hug, the rest of us laughing as well.

Good, I was satisfied with this. I would be lying if I said I wasn't smiling too.

As soon as they parted, Amu began to laugh some more, and she looked… better. Like a huge weight had been lifted off her. Akiko then started to laugh as well. She then snorted and failed miserably. Tadase laughed at her snort, Fujisaki and Mashiro also joined. And then almost everyone had smiles on the faces. "C'mon! Let's get down to business! What are we?! Some drama show?!" bellowed Kukai, slapping Yuiki on the back.

"Clearly not! Are we ready to transform or what?!" she shouted back.

Everyone cheered and we all got into in a circle shape, besides Hikaru and Akiko. We all glanced at each other, obviously ready to go. I looked at El, and she had the biggest grin on her face. I smiled and looked away from her, noticing Amu. She was across from me, her eyes sparkling with excitement, enough to challenge El's or even Kukai's. God, she was such a kid.

"OK! Who wants to give the count down?!" screamed Yuiki, looking at everyone.

"This is kinda stupid..."

"Rima, don't say that."

"Do we have to give a count down?"

"It wouldn't hurt to try?"

"By my calculations, we should have done this three minutes ago."

"I agree with Sanjo on this one."

"Hurry up you guys! I'm getting bored!"

"I'll do it!" screamed Amu, silencing all of us.

We looked over to her as she blushed. "U-um, I'll do the countdown… If you want to me to…"

All of us smiled or grinned and we positioned ourselves. Amu nodded her head, grasping her Humpty Lock and getting her hands ready.

"Three."

"Two!"

"ONE!"

"My Heart! ... Unlock!"

---

.:Amu:.

Blinding pink light erupted from the Humpty Lock, and I could see myself in the transformation state. Ran merged with me, and I felt each piece of sparkling light lace onto my sin. Everyone one else was transforming with me, and I could see all their smiles. The bright light disappeared and the transformation was almost complete. I did a few flips and finally winked. "Character Transformation! Amulet Heart!"

"Character Transformation! Sepharic Charm!"

"Character Transformation! Clown Drop!"

"Character Transformation! Dear Baby!"

"Character Transformation! Sky Jack!"

"Character Transformation! Beat Jumper!"

"Character Transformation! Samurai Soul!"

"Charatcer Transformation! Platinum Royal!"

They all finished, and we grinned proudly. We turned our heads to Akiko and Hikaru, who were staring at us in awe. Akiko was the first to snap out of it, "Ok! Utau, Amu and Kukai! Get up in the sky! All of you be prepared! I'm going to talk to Hikaru and y'all gotta get ready!"

Everyone nodded their heads at Akiko, and Kukai was the first to fly up. His rocket powered skateboard blasted off and left behind smoke. Utau also flew up with her elegant wings, soaring gracefully. I looked up at the both of them and decided I should go as well. "Heart Speeders!" I cheer. The pink roller skates replaced my sneakers with a pink light. I look back at everyone and smile.

"Good luck, Amu-chan!" Miki, Su and Dia say in unison.

"Good luck Amu/Amu-chi!" everyone shouts at me. I give one final smile to them and look at the dark sky above me. My feet start to move and I whizz off into the black sky ahead, leaving them all behind.

Be safe everyone. And good luck.

---

.:...:.

Akiko watched as Amu took off, then turned to everyone.

"Alright guys, this is it. Get in your starting positions and good luck. Watch out for each other and be safe," she said. They all smiled at her and walked away. Akiko turned at the small boy beside her, beaming down at him and his chara. "Hey, Hikaru," she said softly.

He looked away, nervous. "H… hi."

"You ready?" she asked, bending down to his height.

He looked up at her again with his light blue eyes. "I… don't know. There's this funny feeling inside of my stomach. I can't name it though."

The brunette laughed heartily. "It's called being nervous and excited, silly! I had the same feeling in my stomach this morning to though. But don't worry, it's normal." He looked away again, not speaking. Akiko smiled again and straightened her back. "So, are you ready to transform?"

"N-"

"YEAH! He definitely is! Right Hikaru?!" yelled Akihiro, grinning and stretching. Hikaru took a look at his confident, shining would-be-self. He didn't know if he took what it takes to become him. What if he tried to, and failed? What if he let everyone down tonight... what would they all think of him then?

"Hikaru? What were you going to say?" Akiko asked him, drawing him back to reality.

"I… uh… I need more time. I don't think I am ready…" he said, nervously. Akihiro then turned upset, and it saddened Hikaru.

"Oh… I see…" Akiko looked back at him, her face showing concern. Why is he all uncertain? She shook her head, worried. If he wasn't going to transform… Then everyone came here for no reason at all. "Hikaru, you must be ready. Everyone is counting on you to," she pushed. He looked down at his feet, his mouth pulling into a frown.

"But that's just the thing. There it too much pressure on me, what if I let everyone down?" he said in a melancholy tone. It made Akiko's heart pang.

She looked sad, and clenched her fists. "Believe me, you won't Hikaru. This is important, so please." His faced her in surprise.

Five more charas then started to come into view. Miki, Su, Dia, Temari and Il. Akihiro's face brightened at the five of them, while the girls looked at them in confusion. "Why hasn't Hikaru transformed yet desu~?" asked Su, looking at Akihiro.

"Because he's unsure about it…" he explained to them, with a hint of sadness. He looked back at his owner, and sighed. Hikaru looked away, frowning.

"Come on idiot! Don't just let everyone down and be a wuss about it!" Il screamed, flying in front of Hikaru's face.

"Hikaru, we will be here to guide you through it. You'll be okay," Temari said, much more gently to the boy.

"If only we had trained that day! You could have done it by now!" Aki said floating up to him, smiling. Hikaru looked at his chara, confused. Why is everyone forcing him to? Why did it have to be him? "You can do it! Just believe in your would-be-self!" he cheered on. All the charas started to cheer with him, and Akiko smiled.

"My, would-be-self…" he murmured, unheard by all the shouting chara's, all except one.

Dia approached him, and smiled gently, "Do you not remember the day when I told you about Aki, when he was inside his egg? I said how powerful he was and about the how strong his light was. Do you not want to release that power and radiance?" she asked him, looking back at all the charas, who had now silenced.

"I… I do… But, I don't know how," he admits, putting his head down.

"Hikaru," Akiko began strongly, grabbing his full attention. "Someone once asked me what my name meant. I replied back with words like light, sparkle, and bright. They said back to me to never let my radiance fade and keep my light shining. Your name means light, radiance and 'to shine'. Do not let your radiance fade, because it's hidden deep within you. You just have to believe it's there!"

He looks at her… and he starts to realise. His face shows admiration and understanding… Can he really do it? Is he able to? "Come on Hikaru!" laughs Akihiro, his wings flapping and grin shining.

"Hikaru… let your radiance out! Be the happy light you have always wanted to be, and unlock your heart!" exclaims Dia.

Their words finally make it through to him…

He was brought him to a time that wasn't that long ago, up in his office, surrounded by the glittering stones on each of his walls. He wanted the rarest, most pure jewel out there. One that could fill the void in his heart... but the truth was, after all this time, he really wanted to be that shining jewel. A jewel that shone with a pure shine. A shine that only he could emit. A shine that was generated by the love of a father, and the love of being understood.

Hikaru closed his eyes, a bright yellow light emitting from both him and Akihiro.

Everyone stepped back as as ball of light consumed the pair. Hikaru's voice was heard, emanating with soft confidence. "My Heart... Unlock!"

The ball of light flew up into the air, and exploded. Everyone shielded their eyes and yelped in shock. Once the light finally dimmed, a small figure was revealed, with angel wings at least the size of Utau's. "Character Transformation! … Shining Star!"

Everyone gaped at him… All transfixed by the strength of his new found power. "That's just like the light when Amu transformed with Dia!" Miki exclaimed. No one took their eyes off of him.

He floated back down, and everyone rushed to him. "Hikaru!" they yelled, looking at the small boy and his wings. His outfit was almost like Aki's; light brown shorts that went to his knees, blue sneakers, a yellow shirt with golden stars in the middle, light brown wrists bands, and a brown bandanna around his head. They all gushed at the new transformation.

"AH! Hikaru, you look so great!" screamed Yaya, coming out of nowhere and hugging the boy. Akiko ran up and hugged him too, close to tears.

Amu, Kukai and Utau were still in the sky, looking from above. "Wow… so he really did it?" A shell-shocked Kukai said.

"Yeah… I'm so glad he did," smiled Utau, looking at his magnificent wings.

Amu didn't say anything, but grinned at him. She felt proud.

"Hikaru...!" Akiko wailed, tears streaming down her face.

He looked up at her, nearly freaking out at her water works. "W-what?"

She grinned at him, blinking her tears away. "Now you got to go and join Amu!" she laughed, wiping her face.

He looked at her in surprise, then nodded, smiling greatly. "Ok," he beamed confidently, turning away to take off. Akihiro was right by his side in a transparent form, instructing him how to fly… but he wasn't really listening. He looked back at Dia and Akiko. He smiled and mouthed, 'thank you'. He at the floating figures in the sky, readying his position, he took a step forward.

But was pushed by purple energy.

"GAHH!" he screamed, falling back into the crowd, everyone catching him. There was an army of X-eggs right in front of them, at least 100 or so. And behind them was a giant dark figure, purple energy swirling around it. The giant then let out a mighty roar and pointed towards the group of friends. Purple energy then lashed out from the black eggs and came rushing towards them. "DEFEND!" Akiko cried, creating a barrier of white light.

"White Wing!"

"Holy Crown!"

"Go Go Little Duckies!"

"Juggling Party!"

Flashes of golden and white came together, feathers keeping the barrier together and dozens of bowling pins and rubber ducks keeping the enemies at bay.

"HIKARU, get in the air!" Akiko demanded. Hikaru flinched at the tone of her voice, but nodded his head and leapt towards the sky. He soared up, wings flapping fiercely. He dodged enemy attacks that were coming his way through the air. Altogether, his flight looked like an elegant dance as he weaved through bullets of purple energy. One bullet came rocketing its way towards him, but was unnoticed.

"Spiral Heart!" a voice boomed. A shining pink rod flew past Hikaru, and whacked the bullet into oblivion.

Hikaru looked back at the pink rod, it soon came ricocheting against other bullets and went back to its owner. Hikaru looked in bewilderment as he saw the face of his rescuer. "Amu!" he called out.

"Hikaru!" she shouts back, "Get over here! NOW!"

He shivered at the tone of her voice, but flew over to her quickly. "Thank you," he fumbled out.

"No problem," she says, giving him a quick grin. He looked down to see everyone battling their heart out, furiously charging at attacks and keeping the enemy at bay. "Can you think of any attacks yet?!" Amu shouts, grabbing pink pom poms and protecting the both of them from purple energy. He shook his head in response. "Ok! Now is not that best time for a training session, but you need to learn somehow-!"

"Golden Victory SHOOT!" A ball of what seemed liked fire whizzed right past their heads, and exploded onto a ball of X-energy.

What the heck?! Amu looked around frantically, and saw the person who fired it.

Kukai grinned and winked at her. "Watch your self, Hinamori!"

"Thank you Kukai!" she shouted back at him.

"Don't mention it!" he laughs, flying off into another part of the battle.

"Hikaru, come on! We need to find Utau!" Amu shouts at him, gliding on her skates through the air.

"W-why?!" He shouts after her, somehow managing to keep up to speed with the pinkette.

"Because she is an angel too, and might have similar attacks to yours. Therefore, she can help!"

She turns a sharp corner, but he keeps up. "O-ok!" he yells over the wind clogged in his ears. She charges towards a swarm of X-eggs, but does the loop-de-loop around them, confusing them and losing direction. Hikaru follows the pink sparkles left from her skates and copies her movements.

"It's crazy out here! So keep up and keep your eyes open!" she screams for the final time. It definitely was a storm and a battle field; people screaming and shouting, explosions going off, purple lasers firing.

"We can do it Hikaru!" echoes Akihiro. Hikaru nods once and continues flying after the middle schooler, in hopes to end this.

---

Nagihiko attacked and avoided dangerous blasts of energy left and right. His Blaze Shoot normally held his opponents off by throwing it at them, and his break dancing allowed him to dodge between their attacks. He smirked, feeling unstoppable against a mass of dark matter. He decided to try out a move he hadn't done in a while, one that would surely take out a wave of the dark eggs for a long while. He summoned a basketball and ran to a crowd of X-eggs. With his reflexes, he zigzagged through the black eggs and charged towards the centre. Every step counted, every bounce of the ball counted, every breath and ounce of sweat showed how important this shoot must be. His indigo hair waved rapidly among the speed he picked up, and he glided across the air. There it is…! The centre. He had to make this goal. Jump! It's all he has ever wanted to do! JUMP!

He soared through the air, and raised his arms with the ball. The ball loosened its grip with his hands… And let go.

The ball went rocketing down, going through the hoop and making contact the ground. "Beat… DUNK!" he shouted. The ball crashed down and exploded, a wave of blue energy pushing all the X-eggs.

His feet touch the ground swiftly, and the dark eggs were moved to another area of the battle field. "YEAH, that was awesome Nagi!" cheered Rhythm, echoing inside his head.

"Thanks. I think we need got to back and help the others now," Nagi said to his chara, turning around to see the war still raging.

"Kay," his chara chimes again.

Nagihiko begins to run forward, but stops abruptly once another X-egg zooms past him. He gasps quickly and begins to recharge his blue energy ball. "Blaze Shoo-!"

"Tightrope Dancer!" screamed a voice, making him stop his attack.

A thick rope whipped out from behind him, lashing out at the egg. He looked back at the attacker, and finds Rima. Her ropes were recoiling with the ground, and she was gliding through the air on them. She spun around and whipped an egg with the end of the rope. Nagihiko stared at her in awe. And by that time, Nagihiko also started to notice that more X-eggs were coming into the area again. He then jumped over to the blonde and started attacking with her.

"Hey, Rima-chan," he said, charging his energy ball and doing a flip in the air while throwing it.

"Hey, show off," she replied, jumping high into the air and doing several spins while whipping her enemies.

"Look who's talking," he said, smirking once she reached the ground again. She whipped her rope once more and he threw another ball.

"Whatever, I am not here to chat. I came here to tell you that I need to take this area," she quipped, bringing out two ropes and lashing them down to the ground, making them recoil and whip at the ends where the X-eggs were.

"What do you mean?" he asked, spinning on his hand and kicking with his feet in the air.

Rima tried to be as quick as she could with explaining. "Akiko zoomed past me and told me to get you, there are more X-eggs here and she wants me to bring them over to other end where the real battle is."

"Uh-huh," he murmurs, not really listening.

"She is keeping all of us intact while running around the place and communicating with us." They spun around, performed their attacks and met face to face. "Are you even listening to me Fujisaki?" she grumbles.

He smirks once again and nods. "Of course I am."

"Then get over there and fight with the others," she says harshly. He laughs and runs off, while still keeping an eye on her.

She jumps high and lands on her escalating rope, she spins and brings out her bowling pins and throws them at her opponents. "Hm… She defies gravity in every way..." And with such beauty...

"What was that?" Rhythm spoke up, popping out of nowhere.

"Nothing," Nagi says back, pink appearing on his cheeks.

"Alright."

Nagihiko glides his way over to where the "real" battle. And… Well, it was way more intense than the fight he just experienced.

Figures jumped high into the air and fired their attacks, or slammed down onto the ground and shook it. X-eggs flew and such a speed you could barely see them, and all their blows were devastating. And in the middle of the raging war, was a huge dark figure that seemed to be controlling the black eggs. Akiko and Kairi were the only people who were attempting to attack it, but it kept on blocking their efforts with its gigantic arms. Nagihiko rushed through the intense war and went straight to them. "Lightning Blade!" screamed Kairi. His lightning came crashing, down but was stopped by the monsters blockade for an arm.

"What is that thing?!" Nagihiko shouted.

Akiko finally noticed him and ran backward. "That's what they call an ogre!" she screamed while jumping and dodging its swinging arm. He quickly jumped as well and made it just in time.

They stayed suspended in mid-air for a few seconds, but fell back down, both of them landing on their feet. "Explain to me what this is exactly!" Nagihiko shouted again, charging up another blue ball and firing it.

"They have control over X-eggs, and are from Aku himself. They are like his minions." She ran forward at top speed, and shot a ray of light right through its chest. It had stumbled back from the force, but didn't do any damage. "Dammit!" she cussed.

"You have any idea how to stop it?" he asked, jumping over to her again.

"There is only one way, I think…" she trailed off, glancing at Kairi as he fought against the dark eggs and beast.

"You don't mean…?"

"Yeah, I do. You and Kairi, go find Kukai. I'll stay and hold back this bloody monstrosity." She looked back at the beast and charged a sphere of light in her hands.

"You sure?" he asked again, looking at Kairi and everyone else.

She winked. "Positive," and sped off towards the monster. Nagihiko sighed, wishing her the best of luck.

Well, better go and do what I have to do.

---

"Go Go Little Duckies!" Yaya screamed over the noise in her ears. The chanting and screeching of the X-eggs surrounded her, and they cried out as they were attacked by her Duckies. Still, it was all too much, she couldn't hear anything besides her own voice, and it was irritating; it was even starting to get to Pepe. Yaya was wearing herself out. "I can't… go on…" she said sleepily, her eyelids beginning to droop. The X-eggs noticed this.

"Impossible, impossible!" they screamed in unison, firing a whirlwind of purple matter at Yaya.

"Wha…?" Is all she managed to say. She opened her eye completely too see a mass darkness heading straight for her. She couldn't even let out a gasp before something pushed her to the ground.

"Golden Ray!" Tadase shouted, a stream light striking through the purple matter, and paralysing the X-eggs. Tadase let out a sigh of relief and looked down at Yaya, who was on the ground and holding her head. "Sorry, Yuiki-san, but I had too, you were falling asleep." He extended his arm out to the girl.

She looked at his hand and shot up into the air, pulling him into a tight hug. "Thank you so much Tadase-kun!" she shouted, squeezing tight.

Tadase tried to breath within the hug but he couldn't. "Yuiki-san, p-please… Let go," he struggled.

Yaya took notice of his plead and pulled way. She looked back up at him seriously, "Right, sorry Tadase-kun. But right now we need to do this together! Let's fight!" she cheers, going into passionate mode again. Before he could say anything else, she ran off to fight more of the darkened eggs, leaving him behind.

"Ok, Yuiki-san! Next time, just be more careful and do not fall asleep!" he calls after her, seeing her figure get smaller and smaller. He struck at another gust of purple energy that emerged from more dark eggs, then looked up in the sky in hopes to find Amu, Utau, Kukai or Hikaru. But all he found was a few stars and the black night sky. Where are they?

"Tadase!" He looked behind him and saw Rima gliding through the air on her ropes.

"Mashiro-san, what is it?" he asked. The girl looked around quickly before facing him.

"Have you seen Utau?" she asked him seriously, golden hazel eyes looking for something in his ruby ones.

"No, I haven't. Why?"

"Because Amu and Hikaru are looking for her…" she says, turning around quickly, throwing more of her bowling pins in the air so the X-eggs could chase after them.

"What? How do you know this? And how did you even find them?" he asks again, jumping out of the way of a few attacks from their opponents.

"Ugh, it seems like I am the only who knows freaking everything around here…" she groaned. "They flew down quickly to ask me and I said no. They are looking for her because Hikaru needs help, fast." She cuts her talking short as she jumps towards the air and lashes out her whips. "Juggling… PARTY!" She spins around on her ropes at top speed and chucked bowling pins around like crazy. She makes it back down again, making sure to not whip herself with her own ropes.

"I see. Well, I tell you when I do," he says, cutting their conversation short.

She quickly jumps back in it again. "Wait, but that's not all. I heard from Nagihiko and Kairi that they are looking for soccer boy." She quickly ducked down so Tadase can take shot at their foe.

"You really do know everything right now," he says, smirking ever so slightly.

"I know, Hotori. Just keep an eye out for both of them, and alert anyone nearby if you see them." She jumped up back in the air and landed on a rope. "Good luck."

"Good luck, Mashiro-san." And she speeds off.

---

Utau soared through the air on her wings, beating the air down and gaining more speed with each glide. Kukai followed after her, laughing after her and zooming with his board. They had both made a bet again, on who could hit the most X-eggs, no purifying aloud. Even though it was part of Utau's job, she thought she could bend the rules a bit. "Come one, sports boy! You can do better than that!" she laughed, seeing Kukai's 'failed' attempts at blasting an X-egg. But he didn't really want to succeed; he just wanted to make her laugh.

Sure, Kukai had heaps of arguments with her, liked teasing her, having competitions with her. But he couldn't help but just… make her feel happy. Her laugh was one of a kind, and she didn't laugh often, so it felt like he was the only one who could.

"Yeah yeah, I know I can be better than you," he smirked. Rather than receiving the usual scoff or 'rolling of the eyes', he noticed the faintest blush on her cheeks. He raised his eyebrow, but shrugged it off.

"Y-you! You're gonna get it now!" she yelled, charging straight towards him.

Well, this is different. Kukai shrugged. Oh well, might as well go along with it.

"Ahhh, no. Don't get me!" he faked peril, dramatically putting the back of his hand on his fore head.

But Utau already knew that he wasn't going to expect this. She used her top speed and flew straight towards him. He laughed some more but realised that she wasn't joking. His face held the expression of "holy crap, she really is going to hurt me!"

He tried to get way but Utau had already pushed her body onto him. She rammed into him and sent him flying off his board, quickly catching him by the waist into a position into what seemed like hug. They spun around some more and continued laughing. Utau, being the pilot, pulled to a stop. Their laughter dids down, and what seemed to be a few seconds, they were consumed by a soft silence. Their bodies were so close to each other, and so were their faces. Utau's arms were still around his waist, supporting him. They then realised how close they were and that they had gone over the limit of personal space.

They looked down, away from each other's faces. Why are my cheeks so warm right now…? Utau thought, looking up at his facial features.

What's this feeling in my chest? Kukai thought, feeling the loud thump of his heart beat and feeling the butterflies in his stomach. Words were unsaid for a while, until Kukai's board came whizzing back to retrieve its owner. The atmosphere became even more awkward. Utau then let go of the boy and he hopped on his board. They still floated there, suspended in the air. "We… should get back to work…" Kukai mumbled, scratching his head awkwardly.

"I… Yeah…" Utau agreed, looking down at the battle field below them.

"Where have you two been?!" They turned their heads so fast that they got whiplash. It was Amu, shouting at them like crazy. They both started to blush heavily again, looking away.

"S-sorry Hinamori… W-we…" Kukai fumbled out, trying to make up an excuse.

"It doesn't matter! Don't you know everyone is trying to look for you guys?!" she shouted again. Hikaru came into view, looking at the two teenagers with a blank face.

"No, we didn't. We'll be right down on the ground," Utau stated, joining Amu. They all started to fly towards the battle again, Kukai following slowly behind, wishing he could have spoken to Utau a little more.

"It's been crazy out here, those X-eggs are tough and don't give up, but I think it has to do something with that giant. Anyways, have you purified any?" Amu asked again, looking at Utau.

Utau paled slightly. Might as well come clean. "No, I haven't."

Amu looked bewildered. "W-what?! Bu-but you were supposed to?" she stuttered, amazed that the older girl didn't stick to her responsibilities.

"Well, I didn't. Have you?" she said, shooting the question back at her.

Amu looked taken back and stuttered, "N-no, I haven't either. I have to wait for the right moment to use Open Heart," Amu remembered the other reason why she couldn't either. "But that's also because me and Hikaru have been trying to find you! He doesn't have any attacks yet, and I thought we could come to you so you could teach him or something. But you were obviously 'busy'," Amu stated, looking back a blushing Kukai.

"Me? How I am I supposed to help?" Utau scoffed, using some solid logic but also defence in regards to Amu's comment. "Even though we are both angels, we are still very different."

"I know that! I just thought you could help…"

"Well I can't, go ask Akiko or something; she seems to know what's going on-" Utau was cut off. A tower of blinding light had emerged from the ground, reaching even higher up than they were.

"Th… that must be Akiko!" Amu gasped, suddenly rocketing her way down to the ground. Hikaru and Utau stood suspended, while Kukai followed Amu. The cheerleader reached the ground, and all she found was chaos. Everyone was cornered by the pack of X-eggs and very vulnerable. Amu then understood that the beam of light was a distress call. Kukai zoomed right by her side, charging his fire ball.

"SPIRAL HEART!" Amu screamed, whipping out her Heart Rod and flinging them at the eggs.

"Golden Victory SHOOT!" Kukai roared, the sphere of flames making contact with Amu's Heart Rod exploding amongst the X-eggs, leaving them pushed back and scattered.

They both ran over to greet everyone, and Amu's charas greeted her in return. "Amu-chan!" they exclaimed, the three of them with worry in their eyes.

"What's the matter, is everything ok?" she asked her would-be-selves.

The three of them looked over at Akiko, who was kneeling down on the ground, hands shaking. "Amu, I don't have enough power right now to make a shield... We all got to make it ourselves." She stood up, but stumbled slowly. Amu noticed she was hiding her hands behind her back her, and glanced up at her in shock.

"Your power has a limit?!"

Akiko winced, "Yeah, I'm sorry for not telling you earlier… I needed a lot of energy to make that beam."

Amu nodded her head slowly, looking at everyone else. They all had worried faces, some even scared. She then started to notice the X-eggs starting to rise again, and the giant heading straight for them. "Watch out!" she screamed.

They all turn their heads around to see their enemy rising again. They stood backed and form a line. "W-what do we do?" Yaya asked, her voice shaking.

"Stay close and everyone, brace your selves!" Akiko shouted as the eggs charged their power.

Everyone winced and clenched their teeth, gripping their respected weapons hopes to survive this. The dark eggs unleashed their power with such a force that everyone had gotten thrown back, not enough time to create a shield. The eggs were still pushing, leaving everyone to remain on their backs, protecting their faces from the purple energy. They all gurgle and sputter, trying to shout. The ogre was charging up to them, raising its arms in hopes to slam them down and finish them off.

Utau and Hikaru looked from the sky, their horrified faces twisted in shock. With no hesitation, both angels flew down at an incredible speed. "EVERYONE!" they boomed. Their hands had connected, fingers locking in place as though they had done this before. Their wings flapped ferociously, and their throats ached. But they went on, soaring through the dark open air. They finally land in front of the purple mist, stopping the surging darkness that was pushing down their friends. Both of the angels were still holding each other's hands, Hikaru on the right and Utau on the left. The ogre approached them; it's depressing shout of agony rang through their ears.

Utau and Hikaru held up their free hands, and shouted for their friends and themselves. "HEAVENLY… SHIELD!"

… And an unheard boom tickled their senses.

White light emitted from their free hands, saving them. The ogre's hands had slammed against a white shield, and was thrown into the air due to the impact. Their glow halted the chaos around them, and the shining white force field circled around the group. Silence continued, with nothing but a gentle hum resonating around the area. Everyone stared at them, gazing at the bright light they emitted. "Utau, Hikaru! You saved us!" cried Yaya, running up to Hikaru and pulling him into a bone-crushing hug.

"Y-you guys…!" Amu couldn't speak; she was lost for words, so she just hugged Utau.

Akiko was breathing heavily, "I-I can't believe it, you two swooped in before it was too late!"

Kukai smiled in awe at Utau. "Nice one, Utau," he whispered. She smiled back at him in return, blushing.

They soon all parted, and Utau and Hikaru still holding hands to keep the barrier intact. They looked through the shining wall, to see the monster and X-eggs trying to break through.

"We have to get rid of it," Nagihiko said, observing the dark army in front of them.

"Yeah, Nagi's right! We need to think of a plan!" Yaya hollered, looking around for any sign of ideas.

Akiko spoke up. "I… think I got something." They all looked at her, surprised. She continued, "But we need to do this fast though… Ok?" she asks all of them, frowning and nodding, "Ok, Kukai, Kairi and Nagihiko are going to have to do their special move against the ogre, so it can be taken out," she looked at the three of them, the trio already together, nodding their heads in sync. "The ogre is controlling all the X-eggs and is ordering them on what to do. Once we get rid of it, the eggs will be better to fight against. But if they get out of control because their leader is gone, we need to trap them… So…" she trailed off, unsure of what to do.

Yaya's face lit up like a Christmas tree. "Yaya and Rima-tan could hold them down with Rima-tan's ropes and Yaya's little duckies!" she exclaimed. Akiko looked towards her and smiled brightly.

"Great idea. Rima and Yaya will use Tightrope Dancer and the Little Duckies to trap them, and Tadase and I will hold down the ropes." Rima and Yaya nodded together, holding each others hands tightly. Tadase also nodded at Akiko. "Utau, once the eggs are trapped, I need you to do Angels Cradle to purify them. And when I tell you two to let this shield go, you do it."

Both Hikaru and Utau nodded.

"Once that's done… We need to summon the Embryo..."

Everyone gasped slightly. Then all the same question entered their mind… Why didn't the Embryo appear when Hikaru transformed? They look at the small boy, who hid behind Utau. "I think it was a bit dumb of me to assume that the Embryo would just appear straight away," Akiko smiled, rubbing her neck sheepishly. "And since all the fighting broke out, it probably didn't want to show itself. But now, I think we'll have to beckon it one more time by Hikaru doing a move of some sort."

"Well, I think we better get started," Amu spoke up; looking bravely at their current enemy. The character bearers nodded their heads, and looked with her.

Akiko looked at Amu with concern, she was thinking about something deeply. Biting her lip, she walked up to her. "Hey, listen. If the Embryo does appear, I trust you to get it…" she whispered.

Amu looked at her in surprise, nodding her head slowly. "... Ok," she whispered back, trying her best to smile. She was somewhat nervous, a glimmer of hope shining within her. A hope that said she might be able to retrieve it.

---

"Alright, ARE WE READY?!" Akiko screamed fiercely, putting herself into position.

"YES!" everyone roared back, readying themselves.

Akiko took in a deep breath and closed her eyes. "… Now!" Utau and Hikaru then broke free from each other's grasp, Hikaru leaping towards the right and Utau on the left. Kairi, Nagihiko and Kukai were in the centre of them, charging up their attacks.

"Blazing, Victory, SHOOT!" Kukai and Nagihiko screamed together. The two hues of blue and yellow crashed together to create sphere made of green fire, and the two teens sent it toward a waiting samurai. Kairi took his two swords and caught the spinning ball.

"Lightning, Blade!" he announced. The ball of energy had stopped spinning towards him, and began to turn around in the other direction, growing larger and larger as electricity shot through it. The ball awaited its call from all three of its creators'; Nagihiko and Kukai running to either side of Kairi.

In unison, they roared "JACK'S… POWER BALL!" The rocket of energy was launched toward the ogre, spinning out of control and striking the beast through its chest. This left it paralyzed and sizzling with green lightning and fire, taking its last howl of pain. The ogre and ball exploded into a mass of energy, leaving an aftershock from the explosion racing back to the group. Everyone had leapt high into the air to avoid it... Everyone but Nagihiko, Kairi and Kukai.

Amu noticed this, and quickly pointed her Heart Rod at the three of them. "Magenta LASSO!" she cried, the magenta light split into three, and wrapped around each of them, throwing them up into the air. They yelped in shock, and look to see who had caught them. Amu grinned at them, noticing their thankful smiles. "You're welcome boys!"

Everyone soon made it safely to the ground, and the next part of the plan was in action. The boss was defeated, and now they had to get rid of the smaller guys. "Alright, RIMA, YAYA!" cheered Akiko, signalling them to attack.

"Tightrope Dancer!"

"Go Go Little Duckies!"

Brown ropes whipped out from Rima's back and rubber duckies appeared beside Yaya, the ducks taking a hold of them, circling the eggs with no end. Their foe had gotten dizzy from tossing and turning, and the ducks had finally stopped; they were now trapped. Akiko grabbed tightly on a few ropes and Tadase took a hold of a few as well. "Good job you two, and you King!" Akiko winked at the blonde. Tadase nodded back and secured the ropes. "Utau! Now!"

Utau nodded and flew above the nest of X-eggs. She put her hands on her chest and closed her eyes, "Angel's… Cradle!" her wings extended, and her voice filled the night sky. Feathers dropped from the sky above and began to cure the dark eggs. They all turned sleepy, and started to brighten. They turned back into Heart's Eggs, floating through the ropes, rising up into the sky, and vanishing. Everyone was silent... And then they erupted into cheers.

"We did it, WE DID IT!" Yaya screamed, shaking Rima from the shoulders. Kukai, Nagihiko, Kairi and Tadase all grinned at each other, the former two slapping each other on the back while Yaya ran up and hugged Kairi in another tight hug. "WE DID IT!" Akiko and Amu high-fived Utau, while both the idol and soccer boy shared a few and happy glances. The enemy that they had fought for so long... was finally gone. After the small celebration, everyone turned to Hikaru, still looking at his elegant wings.

"Alright Hikaru, are you ready?" Akiko asked the boy, patting his head.

He looked at his transparent chara, and smiled. "Yeah, I think I am," he whispers to her, confidently.

"Aki, you also ready?" she asks, with pure white eyes.

"Hell yeah!" he cheers.

Her eyes return to normal and she looks at Hikaru. "Ok, when you're ready," she says gently.

Hikaru takes a deep breath through his mouth, and exhales through his nose. Closing his eyes, he puts his hands on his chest, a small glow peeking through the cracks of his fingers. He gasps softly, feeling the warmth. "This is your light Hikaru, listen to its words and you will find your way...!" Akihiro whispered, making Hikaru smile.

His wings beat against the ground, shooting him up into the sky. Twirling and smiling, he felt the cold but soothing wind through his hair. He slowed to a stop, and took his hands off his chest, opening them a little. The yellow glow turned into a sparkling golden star, and he grinned. "Your radiance, Hikaru… Let it be free!" cheered his would be self. He extended his arms towards the heavens and opened his small hands. A shining firework burst through, rocketing its way up and exploding.

"Radiant Beacon!" he echoed. Everyone heard his voice, gazing at the brilliant light he had created. It was big and majestic. Glowing shards from the light seemed to fall down from it and touch the ground. Everyone immediately felt joy while looking at it.

Hikaru stared at the sight, happiness ricocheting within him, bubbling its way up to his throat and into a laugh. He looked to Akihiro, who grinned back at him.

"This is what you're capable of, Hikaru. Never doubt it."

The guardian bearer nodded, grinning.

Then… there was a faint white glow from the other side of the field.

It had heard it, the call of its chosen.

Akiko continued to stare at Radiant Beacon, until she felt a warm feeling in her heart.

She put her hand to her chest, looking to the other side of the field.

"Amu..." Akiko breathed, noticing the single, white egg in the sky.

Amu turned around, nearly doing a double take. Everyone else turned to look as well.

"Heart Speeders!" Amu called out, donning the pink roller skates. The cheerleader spun on them, and propelled herself towards the sky.

The Dream Egg was a little further away now, and Amu could almost reach it. It was above her, looking as though it was gazing at Hikaru. She extended out her right arm , her finger tips stretching. Amu knew that she had done this before, three times now, but this time, she felt so close it. So determined to reach it. No distractions this time, no hesitation. She was sure of herself. Just one simple goal she had to make, and in doing so, she could return the egg where it rightfully belonged.

In Dream Land.

But then, the Embryo began to shake.

A bright light reflected off from it, heading straight for Amu.

The pinkette gasped, quickly dodging to the right. The bright beam of light had struck her skates, which made them morph back into her sneakers. She stretched her hand further in desperation, eyes growing in size.

It shot another beam of light, this time, hitting the Humpty Lock directly.

She felt the weightlessness of her character transformation disappear, and was sent plummeting toward the ground. "AMU!" Ran cried. The starry night sky is all she saw as she was falling. Why...? Why could she never reach it?

No matter what, Amu would never get used to the sensation of falling. She had been through it multiple times, and yet, it stayed the same. The wind rushed past her ears, blocking out anything other than the sound of her voice. "AHHHH!"

Her scream reminded her, of that dark place.

Tears shot out from her eyes, falling with her. It felt like such a long time she was falling, yet also too quickly. She was going head first, unable to turn around. And soon, there it was… The earth. But she didn't want that to happen. Not wanting any of that to happen. They were too far away to catch her. What was she going to do?

Her eyes were wide with shock.

...

"R… Ran...?" The pinkette spoke out to her chara.

Her chara was grasping Amu's hair. A red heart had replaced her x clip, and little pink wings were on her ankles and wrists, supporting her. Her chara had changed with her.

"AMU!" Everyone screamed together. Amu was floating in mid-air, just a few meters from above the ground. She let out a very shaky gasp, gazing at the ground. "Ran... Thank goodness..." she breathed, her pink chara doing the same. Everyone sprinted up to Amu, her own guardian characters pulling her into small tight hugs. She hugged them back, hearing everyone shout her name in relief, crowding around her to check if she was okay. She looked at all her friends, all out of their transformations - Utau was leaning against Kukai in relief, who also had the same look of shock on him. Hikaru had come down and was gazing at Amu with concerned blue eyes, and beside him was Rima, who had eyes were watery. Beside her was Yaya, who clung onto Amu's arm in comfort. Nagihiko had sat down next to them, holding his heart in easiness, glad that his best friend didn't get hurt. Kairi was sitting next to him, looking up at them with a small smile on face. Tadase then came down to sit next to the two, while Akiko sat on the other side of Amu. Her eyes began to water, "Amu, I am so sorry, I... I shouldn't have asked you to get the Embryo," she whispered, regretful.

Amu gazed at her in shock, then put a hand on her shoulder. "No, it's okay," she said reassuringly.

The brunette then sighed, smiling gratefully. "I'm glad to hear that." Everyone continued to smile in relief, breathing slowly.

However, Akiko broke the news. "But... I don't know why the Embryo rejected you, it even broke you out of your transformation."

Everyone frowned at this, Amu included. She recalled a memory of a similar event, and shook her head. "That hasn't been the first time it's happened..." Akiko's pulled back, trying to make sense of her words. "But I'm not sure why either," Amu explained. "I have a feeling that it was scared, and didn't want to be taken."

This made Akiko frown in confusion, everyone else included. A silence dropped over them.

Utau then cleared her throat, breaking the quiet. "It was unfortunate," she began, everyone glancing up at her. "But I'm sure that us not being able to obtain that egg means we lost." Everyone's faces then lit up, filled with hope again. Utau smiled. "Look at what we accomplished tonight - we were able to take out that giant and those X-eggs with all of us working together... And that's what matters most."

Yaya gasped, getting up from her spot beside. "Utau-tan's right! We did so many cool things tonight!" she cheered, running up to the blonde.

Kukai grinned. "Hey, that's so true. Sanjo, Fujisaki and me were just too good." Everyone grinned and clapped at them. The boys laughed while Nagihiko looked at Rima.

"Rima was pretty spectacular too," he said, making the blonde blush, everyone's gaze on her.

"I agree. She was able to communicate and multi-task at the same time," Tadase commented, which made Rima blush even more as everyone clapped for her. Yaya piped up again.

"OH, but especially Hikaru-kun with Akihiro, he was so great!" she gushed, shaking the smaller boy excitedly, who put his head down in embarrassment, although he was smiling. "And Tadase-kun, how he saved me! And how Kairi-kun was trying to defeat the monster!" she cheered again.

Amu laughed. "Yeah, and Utau and Hikaru, who created that shield!" Everyone clapped for them as well.

"And Akiko, who organised everything and kept everyone in line," Utau smirked, which created a new applause for the now embarrassed girl.

"And Amu!" A small voice shouted. Hikaru's eyes widened as everyone looked at him. "U-uh... She took care of me, and protected me and everyone else..." he stuttered out, feeling exposed. Kukai patted him on the back gently as everyone cheered Amu, who blushed in return.

Akiko grinned, nodding. "What we did tonight showed that we are all able to work together, and what we could do with our power."

"AND IT WAS AWESOME!" All the chara's screeched, everyone laughing. They all decided that they should get back home, everyone walking away still in a frenzy.

Amu stayed behind to watch everyone walk, and her chara's stayed with her.

Akiko smiled at her, patting her on the shoulder. "Don't worry, I'm sure we'll be able to get it next time."

Amu nodded her head, determination brimming in her eyes. She felt the Humpty Lock placed on her chest, and she held it tight, energy gushing through her.

---

...

"Particularly Hinamori Amu. That girl has a lot of concentrated power.

Can you take the real her out?"

...

---

…Magic: …

Everyone: -_-

Magical girl4: Okay… so… I lied.

Everyone: No kidding!

Magical girl4: Hey! Listen, I said I was going to update three weeks ago or something, and it's almost Christmas! But, as you can see, this chapter IS HELLA LONG! So, it took a really long time to write it up, sorry.

Amu: I can't believe you.

Magical girl4: I know, and once again, I'm sorry. To be honest, I noticied how many other Shugo chara continuation stories there are. It makes me feel… bad… and stuff, because there are so many versions, but I'm keeping this original. And, I kinda also re-wrote every chapter with my story… not the first three. Because, I just felt like it… So, that's also why I took so long in writing this chapter.

But anyways… Hey, it's Christmas sooon!

Ikuto: That's kind of obvious.

Yaya: OK, everyone! Just like we practised!

Akiko: Just like, 'what' we practised?

Yaya: Singing Carols!

Kukau: WHAT?! No way am I singing, no WAY!

Utau: Suck it up baby, I totally got this.

Kukai: Great, I am so screwed.

Ikuto: How do you think I feel? I have to be with my sister who is 10 times better at me then singing, it sucks.

Hikaru: I finally transform and now I have to do this -.-

Tadase: I really don't feel like doing this.

Nagi: Same.

Kairi: Here, here.

Akiko: Like Utau said! Suck it up and at least TRY and sing?!

Rima: What Akiko said.

Amu: Oh boy…

Magi: Ok everyone! THREE, TWO, ONE!

Shugo chara gang (yes, even Ikuto): We wish you a merry Christmas! We wish a merry Christmas! We wish you a merry christmmmasss!

AND a happppyyy… nneeewww… YYYEEEAAARRRRR!

(Lights from ceiling falls down and causes a black out)

Amu: AAHHHH! I CANT SEE!

Ikuto: I'LL SAVE AMU!

Akiko: GET OUT OF THE WAY!

Rima: GAH! MY HAIR IS GETTING TRAMPELED ON!

Magic: JOE!

Joe: ILL FIX IT!

Utau: So much for carols… Read and review…

Magic: Sorry Utau, hope you guys liked the chapter anyways!

…

Hey everyone! It's me one last time! I just wanted to say… MERRY CHRISTMAS! I hope you have enjoyed my story so far and I will be seeing you next year! We'll be back in 2015, and hopefully I can finish this story off in that year, so I can get going with the other billions of stories I want to write!

I love you all so much for your support this year and I will continue! And hope fully, update faster!

Magical girl4… OUT! See ya'll next chapter! BYE! ;)