OMG I AM SO SORRY FOR NOT UPDATING SOONER! It was a crazy week with Halloween and stuff :(... Sorry about that. I'll make it up to you and try to update the final chapter by tomorrow night or monday ^_^ (depends on how fast those reviews of yours come :D)

The Keeper of Worlds - hahaha thank you! I am glad you liked it because I was very proud of that particular chapter. And I am glad that you're happy with your character's contribution! I bet you will like him even more in my next story ;). And hahahaha you're about to find out about Zoe. We do have a lot of things going on here, don't we? Hmmm interesting ;D And yes... the JP thing was sooo sad. :(

.Butterfly - Awww I'm sorry haha. You'll find out what happens to Zoe in a minute though so don't worry :) But yeah Tadao deserves hell!

digimonfan101 - No need to wait any more :D Sorry it took a while.

Aquamarine6996 - hahahahahahaha yeah don't worry Zoe got it quite well ;) Now to find out what happens to Zoe! :D

Guest1 - I know right? Intense is my middle name ;) hehehe. Yes! FINALLY I got to write Mimi getting what she deserves. She was getting on my nerves lol. And I am so happy you are happy with your OC :D And bahahahahahahahahaha to the Star Wars reference. I promise I did not mean it like that hahahahahaha

PokemonFreak90 - Yeah unfortunately there's only one more chapter to go after this one. But it won't be my last Takumi story for sure ;) I already know what my next one will be but PM me either way. Maybe I can do it after or incorporate it into the new one :) I appreciate it :D

Xx-Melanie-xX - I know you reviewed Ch 1 but hopefully you'll see my reply when you get to this one. Yay medieval times! I am glad you like the plot and the time setting... let me know what you think once you catch up! :)

Guest - Don't worry. I don't hate Davis trust me. It was just because he was the last one to be suspected of. The minor details are always very important :D... But Im glad you like the story! :D I will consider watching earlier seasons, I just never have the time hehe. Anyways, well I can't do that anymore and you're about to see why. But your OC will still make an appearance.

Red Page - Oh you can expect literally ANYTHING from me hehe. I know I feel so sad for JP :( but lives will be lost during war, right? Is Takuya really winning Davis back, though? He might be a lost cause like Tadao... right? Hmm... you'll see. And yeah.. even though he didnt mean to stab her... he did. What now? *bites nails*... You're about to find out! :D Hopefully this chapter will also have you hooked from beginning to end! :D

Daffa-X - OF COURSE YOU MAY! That's what is here for ^_^ haha I am glad you love this story so much! Yay! And to answer your questions: 1. Yes. Hiraki is the same Original Character. He got so much hate because he was annoying as hell that I decided I will keep him throughout my stories. He makes a great villain hehe. 2. Yes. The poison is the same as the one that Takuya received when he was injured by Akira. So you'll see the problem with that in this chapter. Even though he didnt mean to stab her daughter, Tadao is pretty insane nevertheless. 3. Yay! Im glad you didnt expect the Davis twist! That was my intention so Im glad you appreciate that. 4. I know poor JP :( but at least he was honorable right and a good person :) 5. Hahaha yes the Mimi-Zoe catfight had it coming for a few chapters now so Im happy you liked that. 6. You're about to see what happens to Davis though... I can't guarantee anything. and 7... OF COURSE IT'S NOT DISCONTINUED! :D I will ALWAYS finish what I start so don't worry hehe. and NO! Don't apologize for long reviews. They are awesomeee! :D Keep reviewing cuz I like it.

Death's shadow AK22 - Awww haha Well I'm glad you thought it was a sad chaper because it was truly one of the most intense and emotional of all. Maybe this one will be sort of the same :)

Ok! So sorry for the wait. Without further ado... CHAPTER 25!

Chapter 25: Illumination

[ERELARIA]

TAKUYA'S POV:

My heart was pounding faster than ever. Tadao's blade had pierced through my beloved Zoe's body, infecting her with its poison. It was the same poison that nearly killed me when I first met her. I recognized it from the symptoms. She couldn't feel her body and her vision was getting blurry. I remember clearly how it felt to have than toxic substance inside me. It was worse than getting stabbed, and now my Zoe was suffering its effects.

Everyone had now stopped fighting and was fixated on her. Tommy, Kouji and Kouichi were sitting around Zoe and me, and I had cradled the blonde beauty into my arms, making sure not to let go. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw that Tadao was too in shock to move an inch. I wanted to murder him, but before I could do anything, Zoe started shifting in my arms and coughed some blood.

"Oh God, no", I said, trying to hold back the tears that were inevitably escaping my eyes, and wiping away the blood with a cloth.

"There has to be something we can do!" cried Kouichi in desperation.

Kouji turned to me. "Takuya, you already survived this. You told us Zoe healed you. What did she do?"

I started shaking and let out a few more tears. I couldn't even respond to Kouji's question. I felt like I was about to have a mental breakdown.

"Zoe used the thistles, didn't she?" asked Tommy, as he too was trying to hold back the tears.

I nodded. "Yeah."

"What are thistles?" asked Kouichi.

"They are some plants we have in back in Lamia", said Tommy. "They have a special substance inside them that neutralize the effects of the poison."

"Those are the ones I was referring to when Captain Kanbara was injured with the poison, sir", added Shia. "It's the only thing that can serve as an antidote."

"Then what are we waiting for?" asked Kouichi. "Let's go get it, before it's too late!"

Shia frowned. "Sir, remember what happened last time. We couldn't save the Captain because there was no time. The effects of the poison would have killed him before we could get there."

"But that was because we didn't know where to look and we weren't sure the Lamians would help us get to it in time. I'm sure that with Zoe's life in the line, they will not hesitate on giving it to us right away." Kouichi then turned to Tommy. "Right?"

"Of course not", said Tommy.

"Then let's go!" I cried.

I carried Zoe into my arms and everyone began to retrieve their weapons. I glared darkly at Tadao, who hadn't moved since he pierced his sword into Zoe. I was about to say something to him, but was stopped when I noticed Zoe shifting in my arms and grabbing my right cheek.

"Zoe?"

Her green emeralds were sparkling faintly and she was trying to give me a crooked smile.

"Takuya … * cough *… let's just stay here."

My eyes widened. "What? No! I refuse to let you die like this!"

She took a shallow breath and smiled. "Takuya… I'm not going to make it."

I couldn't stop more tears from falling and I kneeled back to my original position, not letting go of her.

"Stop it!" I sniffed, whipping my eyes. "Don't talk like that!"

"I'm not that strong."

"Yes you are! You are the strongest person I know! Please!"

"Takuya… I can already feel that I don't have much time left."

She had a point. I could see that her condition was worsening by the second. Her angelic face had grown even paler, her breathing was heavier and her lips were turning into a more intense shade of purple.

"Dammit!" I cried. "Why is this thing acting so fast? When it happened to me it didn't affect me until later. I even finished my battle with Akira!"

"That's because I increased the dose", muttered Tadao.

Tadao's statement caught everyone's attention. Every head in the room had its attention directed at the Lamian ruler.

"You… WHAT?!" I snarled.

Tadao lowered his gaze. "I knew the first time you lived through it. I didn't want to make the same mistake again. So instead of the usual single drop we put, I used five. The poison usually kills the victim in an hour, but now…"

"She has only a few minutes left", I whispered.

I turned to see Zoe and saw her limp, weak body in my arms.

"No", I whispered. "This can't be happening!"

I felt more tears escaping my eyes and I couldn't help it. It killed me to think about my life without Zoe. The one girl who had managed to change the heart of a restless warrior, without me even realizing it. She had become the girl who made me want to become a better man.

My turmoil was interrupted by a warm touch in my cheek. I lifted my gaze and saw my beautiful Zoe smiling at me, cupping my face with her hand.

"Takuya," she whispered. "Everything's going to be ok."

"I can't lose you!" I sniffed. "Zoe, I can't imagine my life without you."

"You will never lose me silly. You know that I will always love you, no matter what happens. For longer than forever, remember?"

I gave her a crooked smile. "For longer than forever."

She smiled at me and directed her attention to Kouji and Kouichi.

"Guys, thank you for always making sure I felt at home. Kouichi, you always made sure that I was accepted by your people, and I really appreciate it."

Kouichi smiled sheepishly. "I didn't do much. You were accepted by everyone for what you are, not for I portrayed you to be."

Zoe grinned. "I'm still very grateful." She slowly then turned her head to Kouji. "Kouji… I don't even know where to begin with you."

Kouji shook his head. "Zoe, don't…"

"No, really. God, you're nothing like I thought you'd be. You are truly the kindest, smartest, compassionate and most noble man I've ever met. Never once did you force me into anything, and you always made sure my happiness came before anything else. And even when you found out about Takuya and me, you still let us free! You're an amazing man and an incredible leader. I know you always doubt that you will leave up to your father, but I think you already have. Never stop being the way you are because the people here should be proud of calling you their ruler."

Kouji struggled to hold back the tears, as he leaned in to kiss Zoe's forehead. "Thank you, Zoe. You are also, most definitely, the best girl I've ever met. You are strong, kind and you truly have a mind of your own. And the more I see it, the more I can tell that you and Takuya are made for each other."

Zoe and I gazed into each other's eyes and smiled.

"You are both the same," continued Kouji. "I'm genuinely happy that you found each other and got to experience such a strong bond. You both deserve each other so much, and I'm glad to know that, after all this time, you both found your true happiness in each other."

Zoe smiled weakly and hugged Kouji. She then saw a young boy wiping off the tears from his face.

"Tommy," she whispered as she extended her arms the best she could, inviting him to an embrace. Tommy didn't hesitate and buried his face in his sister's arms.

"Zoe, don't die", cried Tommy. "Please. First Junpei and now you? I can't… I can't do this! Please, Zoe. Don't leave me alone!"

I could tell from Zoe's expression that her heart broke. Her uplifting smile had vanished, and it was replaced by some watery gloss in her eyes. She took a deep, heavy breath and closed her eyes.

"Tommy, I promise everything will be ok. It doesn't matter where I am; you know I will always be here for you. I want nothing more than to stay here with you, but I need you now to be stronger than ever. You're going to be replacing me, you know. I was destined to be the Queen of Lamia after father dies, but now I won't be able to. I need you to step in and do it."

"But, Zoe I – "

"Please", begged Zoe. "Our kingdom is in your hands now."

Tommy hesitated but then silently nodded. "I will. I promise."

Zoe smiled at her little brother and kissed him gently on the cheek. The young boy stroke her hair one more time and backed away to give Zoe and me our space. Zoe turned to me and smiled.

"Takuya…" she whispered.

"No", I said, shaking my head vehemently. "You're not doing this!"

"But –"

"I'm not saying goodbye to you, Zoe!" I cried. More tears had already made their way down my cheeks and I could feel a lump in my throat.

Zoe chuckled weakly. "Who said anything about a goodbye? Consider it more of a 'I'll be seeing you' kind of thing."

I rolled my eyes and frowned. "Call it whatever you want, I'm still not doing it! I refuse to let you go, ok?"

With all her strength, she managed to place her hand in my cheek once again. I started crying and I took her hand, and I kissed the front of it.

"I love you, Zoe."

She smiled. "I love you too, Takuya. We've been through so much together, and I know that it has brought us a lot of pain. But I promise that I would do it all over again, if it means I get to spend some time with you. I always felt like something was missing from my life, and that's when you came in. You made me realize you're all I ever wanted and needed. Nothing has ever felt so right… Takuya, you're the best thing that's happened to me."

I breathed heavily through my tears and returned her smile. "No, Zoe. You're the best thing that's ever happened to me. I love so damn much and it… it just kills me to think that I might have to spend my life without you. We finally made it to a point where we can be together, and now… now this?"

"I know", she whispered.

Our eyes met and I gazed into her beautiful green eyes that complemented every aspect of her angelic face. I leaned in slowly and so did she. Both of us got lost in each other's arms, eyes closed, and our lips locked together in harmony. The kiss was tender and passionate. Her lips felt warm and exciting. I cannot imagine my life without this girl. Every time I look at her, the only thought that runs through my head are those three little words that mean so much… I love her.

My arms were around her, as sure and hard as the days I spent embracing her in the darkness of the forest. I felt the rush of helplessness for not being able to help her, and I could hardly bear it. All I had left was to enjoy my last moments with her. The sinking yielding, the surging tide of warmth that I felt with her was what was driving me now. I bent back her head across my arm and kissed her more. I kissed her softly again, but then, with a swift gradation of intensity, I felt her clinging to me as if I was the only solid thing in her swaying world. I could feel her body getting weaker, so my insisting mouth parted her shaking lips, which sent wild tremors along both of our nerves. The kiss evoked sensations that I never thought I was capable of feeling until I met Zoe.

Eventually, the lack of air won and we parted lips. We were both panting, but our foreheads remained together. We both had our eyes closed and we tried to recover from that intimate moment we just had. I opened my eyes and smiled at my beloved, and kissed her nose gently.

"God, I love you", I whispered.

"I love you too", she said attempting to smile again. "Like I told Kari once before, you were that puzzle piece that was missing from my life."

We smiled at each other, but then I saw Zoe's expression change. Her smile vanished and it was replaced by a worried look.

"What's wrong, my love?" I asked.

"Kari…" she whispered. "Where is she? Please tell me she's not dead."

We all exchanged glanced and scanned the surroundings. Now that I think about it, I haven't seen her since I left her at the boat with Zoe. I didn't see her throughout the entire battle and she was nowhere to be found.

"Wasn't she with you?" I asked Zoe.

"Yes, but then I rushed so quickly to get to you that I didn't have time to see if she was behind me."

I bit my lip nervously. I hope she was all right. I turned to see Zoe but I saw she was facing somewhere else. I followed her gaze and she was staring directly at her father, who still hadn't moved from his original position.

"Father…" she whispered. "You have to stop this now."

Tadao's rage was noticeable and he began to breathe heavily.

"Stop this?!" he snarled. "Stop this? Izumi! Because of these little pests, you're about to die! It wasn't enough for them to take away from me my beloved wife, but now they'll also kill you!"

"ARE YOU MAD?!" I snarled back. "This is all YOUR fault, Tadao! You were the one who poisoned the sword and YOU were the one who fucking stabbed her!"

"It was supposed to be for you, boy! If you wouldn't have let her get in the way of this, none of this would've happened!"

My eyes widened. "Are you serious? Your daughter gave her life to save mine! Do you think it doesn't hurt me to see her like this? I would've given anything for it to be me in her position! I would rather die than let anything happen to her, and I am so angry with myself that I can't do anything to save her! You need to face reality, Tadao! You are so caught up in your own revenge that you have been blinded! And it is because of your blindness that Zoe got hurt!"

"Don't you dare turn this on me, boy! You've manipulated her into taking your side and turning against me!"

"Manipulated her? I love her! I love your daughter more than anything in this world! I didn't change her! She changed ME! She has always been this kind of person. She was always filled with compassion and kindness, while the rest of us were just too blind to see past it."

"Takuya…" whispered Zoe.

"Her mother died, too, you know?" I continued. "You weren't the only one who got affected by your wife's death. She needed a father and you've done nothing to be there for her! So fucking stop blaming this on other people when YOU are the one who have brought this on yourself!"

"Takuya…" Zoe insisted.

"Why you little –"

"No!" I screamed and ignoring Zoe's pleas. "Stop it! She's dying and she needs her father! This is your LAST chance to be there for her as her father! Repent yourself or you'll never get a chance like this again! Because I know nothing would mean more to Zoe than to have her father beside her like you once used to be."

Silence invaded the entire courtyard. Guards were shocked by my striking words and they exchanged glances with one another. Tommy, Kouji and Kouichi's eyes met and nervously waited for Tadao's response. Davis took a quick scan at the room and then directed his gaze to Tadao. I, however, kept my determined gaze in Tadao's eyes, as was he. The intensity of our staring contest gave the whole room a very tense atmosphere. Tadao opened his mouth to say something, but the sudden opening of the doors interrupted him.

"I'm here!"

Every turned to see a young brunette girl rushing towards Zoe and me.

"Kari!" I beamed. "You're… You're alive."

"Of course I'm alive!" she said.

"Where were you?" asked Kouji.

She smiled at us and turned to Tadao with a more serious look. "I knew you would play Akira's card."

"What on earth do you mean by that?" asked Tadao.

She sighed. "The poison. Tada you've never been known for playing fair. I knew that you would do this, so…" She dug her hand in her dress pocket and retrieved a small bottle.

"What is that?" asked Kouichi.

Kari smirked. "This, dear sir, is smashed thistles in water. When Takuya got poisoned, we mixed some in the water he was drinking and also put some in his injury. Since it was severe, it helped to heal the effects of the poison internally as well as externally. So, when Zoe came back for Takuya, I knew I had to take some precautions. So I went back to Lamia and gathered as much as I could. Of course, I didn't expect to see Tadao stabbing Zoe from afar once I returned…"

"It was not meant for her!" snarled Tadao.

Kari rolled her eyes and ignored the man. "So I went to get some water in order to smash some thistles and mix them with water. With this – "

"We can cure Zoe!" I completed, a big grin formed in my face. "Kari you're a savior!" I turned to Zoe and smiled. "Zoe, did you hear that? Kari has the antidote! You're going to be… Zoe?"

I noticed that Zoe was paler than ever and she was unmoving. I almost fainted when I noticed that her breathing had ceased.

"No!" I screamed, shaking her. "Zoe! Stay with me! Zoe!"

My attempts were useless, for the blond beauty in front of me remained unconscious. Tears of desperation formed in my eyes and I felt like I was dying.

"Zoe, no!" I cried.

"Takuya, calm down", said Kari as she approached Zoe and me.

"Calm down?!" I snapped at her. "Please tell me she's not – "

"She's not", said Kari as she started pouring the content of the bottle into Zoe's mouth. "Don't you remember what happened with you? Everyone thought you were dead. You didn't move and you seemed pretty much out. But we still found you and here you are. She just doesn't have much time left, but we made it just in time."

"Are you sure?" I asked.

Kari didn't answer but focused on making Zoe swallow every last drop.

"Please work…" I said to myself.

My doubts all went away, though, when after a few minutes, I saw Zoe's breathing starting to come back.

"Does this answer your question?" smirked Kari.

It took her a while, but after a few more moments, Zoe slowly began to open her eyes and the first thing she saw was my gaze. She was not fully recovered. Not even close. But at least I knew she'd be alright.

"T… Ta… Takuya?" she gagged.

"Zoe!" I put a hand over my heart and sighed in relief. "I thought I lost you. My God… You scared me so much!"

Zoe smiled as her consciousness was slowly returning. "W-What happened?"

I smiled and wiped the saltiness off my cheek. "Kari happened."

Zoe directed her attention to her best friend in front of her.

"My God, Kari!" whispered Zoe. "W-What did you –"

"I was there for you, Zoe", responded Kari with a grin. "Like I always have and always will."

Zoe swallowed hard and smiled at her friend. "Kari you're the best friend a girl could ask for."

"Don't mention it, Zoe. Now, I'm going to place some more thistles in your shoulder, ok? You're going to have to drink way more of this for you to recover completely."

Zoe nodded and allowed Kari to work on her shoulder. In the meantime, Zoe's gaze met mine and I kissed her forehead gently.

"I love you, Zoe."

"I love you, too."

Everyone had gathered around us and smiled at the fallen princess. It didn't matter what side were they on, they all realized that Zoe's almost death meant a lot to everyone. Kouji noticed this and took advantage of the situation.

"My friends!" he spoke, gaining everyone's attention. "I believe it is time for a change. This war has haunted our kingdoms for the past 150 years, and too many lives have been lost. No matter what has happened between us, there is nothing too great for this battles to be worth it!"

"Kouji's right," said Zoe as I helped her sit up straight in my arms. "Please. Take a look at yourselves and take a look at who you think is your enemy! Do you see a difference?"

Everyone did as they were told and took a deep look into their opponents. Their expressions softened and the grip on their weapons had loosened.

"There is none", continued Kouji. "We are all the same. We all want peace. We want peaceful lives where our children can grow happily in. How long will this go on for? Can't you see? There is no middle ground! Open your eyes and see how well our kingdoms did during our peaceful times. That can happen again! We managed to do it once before, so why not now? But this time, we need to keep that promise. I vow to you, Lamians, that I will lend a helping hand however I can if you're ever in need of it."

"And I promise to do the same for Erelaria once I'm Queen of Lamia," said Zoe as she smiled at Kouji. "If Takuya and I became as close as we did, even though we came from two different worlds, I know you will find a way to do the same with your friends. It's time to put the past behind us, and have a new era where we can reign together!"

A sea of whispers echoed in the courtyard as people began to comment on this new peace offering.

"Don't be fools! Attack them!" cried Tadao.

However, no one moved. Tadao's eyes were filled with even more rage and more anger towards us. He then turned to Davis, who had remained silent this entire time.

"Davis… kill them now!" commanded the Lamian ruler.

"No, Tadao."

Everyone gasped and turned to the spiky haired boy. A smirk formed across my face as I saw my friend in pride. I knew he had it in him.

"What did you just say?" asked Tadao.

Davis glared at him. "Don't you see? They're right! I know what I did is unforgivable, but they're absolutely right…." Davis turned to us and smiled. He then proceeded to walk towards Zoe, Kari, Kouji, Kouichi, Tommy and me, taking his place next to me. "It's enough."

Tadao's eyes darkened. "Davis, if you refuse to fight, then you will die with them. I don't care who loses their lives, I want those damn Erelarians dead!"

The echoes of whispers erupted again. However, the Lamian soldier Adam took a step up and dropped his sword in the floor.

"I am done here", he said.

Everyone was surprised at his actions, but he was soon followed by everyone else. Sydney, John, and the others dropped their weapons as well. The Erelarians took this as a peace offering and did the same. Amy, Page, Kami, Jedrick, Geji, Shia, Matt, Takato and every other Erelarian dropped their weapons and shook hands with their opponents. They all knew, no matter what happened, there needed to be a change.

"What are you doing?!" snarled the Lamian ruler.

Kouji, Zoe and I turned to see Tadao.

"What do you say, Tadao?" asked Kouji, extending his arm. "Could we please just stop this?"

"Please, daddy. It's time to let go of that grudge you've been holding on to for so long."

Tadao hesitated and clenched his fists. He closed his eyes for a few minutes, trying to contain his emotions. I could tell a million thoughts were running through his head. Without opening his eyes, he took a couple of steps forward

"I am so sorry Izumi", said Tadao under his breath.

Zoe's eyes widened as she weakly smiled and placed a hand over her heart. The hope she had not let go of that her father would return to her was being restored. "Father…"

"I ask you to forgive me for what I've done to you", continued Tadao. "You are right. I should've been a better father and educate you better."

Zoe's smile was suddenly replaced by a puzzled expression.

"What do you mean?" she asked and blinked.

Tadao's eyes opened and became dark. "I blame myself for your weaknesses, Izumi. I should've prepared you better for this. You fell right in their hands and all because you were too weak!"

"Is he serious?" asked Kouichi to me.

"Father, stop it!" said Tommy.

Tadao's dark gaze turned to his younger son. "Don't you think I've forgotten about you too, Tomoki. You and Izumi are a disgrace to your mother! She died in the hands of these barbarians and you are taking their fucking side!"

"It's not about taking sides!" retorted Tommy. "I'm just tired of all the fighting! We all are! We need to let it go!"

"You might be able to do it, but I will NEVER let it go!"

Tadao's eyes turned to me as he retrieved his sword once again.

"Let's start with the boy who took my daughter, shall we?"

"Father, no!" cried Zoe.

With that, Tadao began to charge towards me. I was in a compromising position, for I had Zoe wrapped in my arms. The crazy bastard wouldn't hesitate on killing us both, from what I saw. I tried placing Zoe carefully aside and into Kari's arms without hurting her weak body, but then I saw Kouji blocking Tadao's sword with his own.

"Step aside boy!" snarled Tadao.

"You're going to have to get through me first!" hissed Kouji back.

Kouji pushed Tadao away and they both took an en guard position. The two men began trading feints, thrusts and parries with lightning speed, almost impossible to follow. No one seemed to outmatch the other.

Tadao leaped forward and swung his blade over his head. Kouji counterattacked by lifting his own sword and clocking his every thrust. Kouji then tried burying his blade into Tadao's chest, but the Laming King dodged the attack by jumping backwards.

Tadao started taking steps to the left in the imaginary circle in which they were standing. However, Tadao took a vicious overhand motion and managed to take the sword away from Kouji's grip. Kouji was left disarmed and at Tadao's mercy.

"Kouji, no!" I screamed, leaping towards my friend.

"This is for everything you've taken away from me!" snarled Tadao.

Kouji's sapphire eyes widened and he braced himself for Tadao's attack. However, Tadao's blade missed its target when Davis came out of nowhere and stood between Kouji and Tadao's sword.

I froze in place and nearly dropped my own weapon when I saw what happened. Davis's body acted as a shield, as he took the attack for Kouji. Kouji's eyes widened at the sight of Tadao's sword, viciously coming out of Davis's chest. Before Davis collapsed, Kouji managed to catch the spiky haired boy in his arms.

"Davis!" I cried as I rushed to my friend's side. I saw him weakly laying on the ground, surrounded by a pool of blood.

"My God…" whispered Kouji.

"Davis, are you ok?" I asked. Of course, I knew he wasn't.

Davis twitched weakly and grunted as Tadao retrieved his sword from him.

"Can everybody stop jumping in to save other people?!" cried Tadao. "This is unbelievable!"

"Father, just shut it!" hissed Zoe. "You're embarrassing! Can't you see what you've done?"

I ignored the discussion between Zoe and her father, and tried focusing on my injured friend. He was grunting in pain and I knew he too would be affected by the poison from Tadao's blade.

"Kari!" I cried as I turned to where the girl was. "We need more of your thistle drink!"

"No, Takuya."

My eyes widened and I turned to face Davis. Did I just hear him correctly? No?

"What do you mean no?" I asked. "Davis' you're going to die!"

Davis smiled and struggled to speak. "I-I know and it's o-ok. R-Regardless of whether the poison g-gets to me or not, I will still d-die… The sword went s-straight through my h-heart…"

"Davis, I – "

"Listen", interrupted Davis, now turning to Kouji and me. "Takuya was right. There is more to life than just revenge... I can't believe I let it take control over me like that. And I know I did terrible things, but I am truly and sincerely sorry for that. I don't want to die and feel like all I ever did was hold a grudge for something that wasn't even your fault. And I want to know that my parents will be proud of me, wherever they are, because that was the whole point of becoming a warrior. And if giving my life to save Kouji's is the way to go, then I don't regret doing so."

Kouji smiled and nodded. "There's nothing to forgive, Davis. It's all forgotten now. And thank you for doing what you just did."

Davis chuckled vaguely. "It's the oath you take as a warrior. You vow yourself to give your life for your King, because it is for the greater good. But I appreciate the acceptance of my apology… your highness."

Kouji chuckled and grabbed his own sword. Davis and I were confused as to what he was doing, but then I smiled as I realized what it was. Kouji placed his sword in Davis's right shoulder and smiled.

"I now declare you…" he then placed the sword in Davis's left shoulder. "…Captain of the Erelarian Army."

Davis's eyes widened. "Wait… really?"

"Yes", I said. "You deserve it."

Davis couldn't believe it. The thing he had always dreamed of had finally come true, even if it were going to be for a few more minutes.

"Thank you, Kouji."

Davis and Kouji exchanged smiled and then he turned to me. I was trying to hold back the tears that I still had inside of me. I didn't think I had any left after Zoe, but I was very wrong.

"Takuya", he whispered. "Thank you for being there for me all these years, and for still not giving up on me after you found out everything. You truly were my best friend here."

I smiled and nodded. "I'm proud of you, Davis. I always knew you had it in you, and I know your parents are proud of you too."

Davis smiled and nodded. "I just need to say one more thing."

"What is that?"

Davis smirked and began reciting with the little strength he had left: "I here swear fealty and do homage to the Crown of Erelaria…"

I smiled and realized that he was reciting our oaths as warrior, so I decided to join him as we both said the words that forever kept us bounded to our Kingdom.

"… to ever be a good warrior and true, reverent and generous, shield of the weak, obedient to my liege-lord, foremost in battle, courteous at all times, champion of the right and good. Thus, I swear to hold the sword of an Erelarian warrior as a sacred trust, and know that my duty to my King will bind me for life. I promise to bear my sword with strength, and I will dispose my heart to goodness and never injure anyone unjustly. Instead, I will only use it to protect the just and the right…"

"I'll always defend my Kingdom from dark…" said Davis, as he exhaled his last breath and fell into slumber.

"Forever I'll be a warrior at heart", I said as I completed the oath. I smiled at my deceased fried and slowly closed his eyelids. Davis Motomiya. The spiky haired boy that would be remembered as a symbol of humbleness and redemption. I would make sure people would remember his name and look up to him in admiration.

I took a deep breath and turned around to a certain unfinished business. Tadao waited for me, his eyes dark and a smirk on his face.

"Ready for another one to jump in a save you, boy?"

I clenched my jaw and slowly retrieved my sword as I tightened the grip around it.

"You…" I said. "You are a fucking monster, Tadao! I gave you one last chance. I gave you the opportunity for you to repent yourself like Davis did. But no. You just had to hold that grudge. I'm done! I'm done giving you chances you don't bloody deserve! Look at everything you've done! You've taken the lives of too many innocent people. You locked your own son in a dungeon and left him to rot. You manipulated everyone into taking your side through cheap tricks. And worst of all, you've hurt the girl I love. You forced her into so many things against her will. You made her do things for your own purposes, not caring about her feelings. You declared her your enemy and you stabbed her! And even after you did so, knowing that she could die because of your bloody poison, you still want revenge! She was there, nearly dead, asking for her father to be by her side, and you still couldn't do that for her? What kind of a monster are you?"

"I'm – "

"I don't want to hear it!" I snarled. "You've done way too much to this kingdoms already, and now you get to pay the price. You are not worthy of forgiveness here!"

I saw that people in the courtyard prepared themselves to attack Tadao.

"No!" I screamed. "No one interferes this time!"

Kouji frowned. "But Takuya –"

"I'm serious. I don't want anyone to get in the way. This ends here, with Tadao and me."

Tadao chucked. "Finally, taking control of your destruction Kanbara."

I smirked. "I wouldn't get too cocky. After all, you know you already tried killing me once… and how did that work out for you?"

Tadao's eyes narrowed and he growled. Without hesitation, my sword sliced the air and shot forward, aiming for his mid-section. His hand shot out and a spiral of a swinging blade was sent towards me, causing me to jump to the side, thus ruining my shot.

"You're leaving your sides open", mocked Tadao. "Do you really want to die?"

I scowled. I circled him with a steady rhythm. Taking him by surprise, I then did a downwards thrust as quickly as I could, except he moved a second before the sword would've hit him. I landed on the ground and thrust the sword forward, barely missing his left ear.

"That's better", he mused with a smirk. "Sword fighting is a deadly mix between speed and power, you know."

I smiled a bit; he was angry because he knew didn't stood a chance and was trying to cover it up with wordplays.

"Too bad you're too old to have speed on your side," I said.

Tadao growled. "I cans till cut you into tiny pieces, you insolent fool!"

Tadao sent his sword forwards once again but I did a parry, and blocked the move. Our swords crossed and you could see the sparks flying in every direction in the midst of the darkness. The sound of the clinking metal echoed through the entire yard. Tadao attempted to leap forward and I jumped at the last second, the blade missed me by merely inches. I had to be careful. One cut, and I would be poisoned for the second time in my life, and I really had enough for a lifetime.

"Just dodge the blade at all costs", I said to my self. It was right there when I noticed something in Tadao's feet. The way he walked made me realize that he had troubles with balance. His left foot kept limping with every step and his steps were careless. I could use this. I waited for Tadao to swing his blade again at me so I could make my move.

I was not disappointed, for Tadao impatiently threw his sword at me, and I threw myself to the floor. I then kicked his left foot as hard as I could and he squealed in agony. I had hit a weak point. He fell on all fours and loosened the grip on his weapon. I kicked away his sword, leaving him disarmed. Before he could react, I pointed my blade at his throat and stared down at him.

"Get up", I commanded, my eyes narrowed and dark.

Tadao clenched his teeth and snorted. "I guess I underestimated you. You really are like me… more than you think. Ready to take your revenge?"

I smirked and shook my head. "I'm nothing like you. But you did underestimate me, because even though you caused so much irreparable damage to everyone, I still won't kill you."

Everyone's eyes widened and stared at me in confusion.

"Are you crazy?" cried Kouichi. "You're going to let him live?"

"I knew you didn't have it in you", mocked Tadao.

"Oh no… trust me. I do", I retorted with a smirk. "I would slice your throat before you can even blink… but I already told you. I'm changed now. I don't blind myself with revenge anymore. You can thank your daughter for that."

Zoe smiled at me and blushed. "Takuya…"

I smiled back at Zoe. "He's your father, Zoe. You and Tommy shall decide what we should do with him."

Tadao's eyes darkened and glared at Zoe in disgust. "You're too weak to get me killed."

Zoe stared at her father in disappointment. She knew that there was no hope for him. He had gotten into a place so dark that I think no one would be able to get him out of.

"I won't kill you father", said Zoe. "But it's not because I'm weak. On the contrary. I am stronger than ever. I hate you for everything you've done, but I have to keep my hopes up that one day you'll see the error of our ways. So for now," she then turned to me. "Takuya… just… lock him up in the dungeons. He'll have time to think about his actions… Besides…" a smirk formed in her face. "He'll have very good company down there."

I smiled at Zoe and then ordered some guards to take Tadao away. He swore under his breath and cried out some obscenities, but I didn't pay attention to a single word he said. I was focused on the blonde beauty across from me. I knew she would forgive her father. I loved this about her. She was so compassionate and kind. No matter how much pain someone brought her, she was always willing to look past it. It was this way of living that made me want to become a better man for her.

Our eyes met and I gave her my famous grin. I rushed over to her and didn't hesitate on pressing my lips against hers. The hunger of our passion consumed us and we melted in the kiss.

The eventual lack of air won and I noticed she was struggling to catch her breath.

"Careful," she giggled. "I am still not fully recovered."

I chuckled and brushed my thumb against her cheek. "Sorry."

I kissed the tip of her nose and then her forehead, which she responded with a smile of her own.

"I love you, Zoe."

"I love you too. God I can't believe it… it's finally over."

"Not exactly."

We turned and saw Kouji standing next to us, followed by a smiling Kouichi and Tommy.

"What do you mean?" I asked.

Kouji smiled. "I believe we still have one more thing to do."

FINALLY! The war is overr! Yayyyy... So sad that Davis died right? But at least he repented himself in the end :) (hopefully some people who were pissed about him being evil are now happy haha).. some people could learn from this... *glares at Tadao*... But hey, at least Zoe lived ^_^ (I obviously wasn't going to kill her hehe). But what did Kouji mean about having one more thing to do? FOLLOW/FAVE to stay tuned for the FINAL CHAPTER (EPILOGUE)!