Enjoy this massive 28 page chapter detailing the last of the Shishio fight!

Disclaimer: I do not own Rurouni Kenshin or Cardcaptor Sakura. I am only "borrowing" them.


CHAPTER TWENTY EIGHT

Cardcaptor Shishio!

The air was thick with magic as Misao stood in the middle of the magic circle, chanting spells under her breath. Her fingers twisted as though they were dancing to the rhythm of her words. Weaving her Kuji Kiri magic into spells of protection and power was difficult; it was a more difficult task than she had ever done in her entire life, but she couldn't fail now. Sweat beaded on her forehead, and her arms and legs quivered, but her voice came out sure and strong.

"Misao."

Still casting spells, Misao cracked open an eye to see Okina at the edge of the magic circle she and Aoshi had drawn on the floor earlier. Misao nodded before closing her eyes and finishing her last spell. As soon as Misao finished, Okina stepped in the circle and began chanting himself. Walking on what felt like wooden stilts, Misao staggered out of the magic circle.

Tsubame turned away from her post by the window to ask Misao, "Are you all right?"

Misao cast a glance at Okina then silently nodded at Tsubame. She didn't want to break his concentration. Plopping onto the ground, Misao tried to relax. Misao, Okina, and Aoshi had been taking turns casting spells the entire night, waiting until Sakura's signal. What made matters worse was before Sakura left the Aoi-Ya, Sakura had taken a bit of magic from all the magic users she knew, including the trio casting spells. Exhaling, Misao rested the back of her head against a wall and lazily looked out the window. It was fast approaching dawn and still there was no signal… Misao was getting worried. I just need to place my trust in them, that's all.

"Is this what you want?"

"No, I need something more like…"

Misao looked up to see Aoshi discussing the content of various scrolls with the dark haired man. Even though a few weeks had passed since he asked for a part time job at the Aoi-Ya, no one knew anything about his background. An enigma he was.

"There!" Tsubame cried, pointing out the window. Piercing the dark clouds of the stormy sky, a pillar of light appeared to the northeast of Kyoto. A pillar of light from Mt. Hiei. "There's Sakura-chan's signal!"

As Okina finished his spell that he was chanting, Aoshi snatched the Clow Book of the Meiji era from its resting place on a table. Okina stepped out of the magic circle, nodding to Aoshi. The candlelight eerily lit up Okina's serious expression. Aoshi, however, barely cast Okina a glance; he was too focused on the task given to him by the Cardcaptor. Casting spells under his breath, Aoshi placed his hand on the cover of the Clow Book. Instantly, the magic circle and the Japanese characters drawn on the floor began to glow. The licks of flames of the candles leapt into the air. Despite the increase of light, the room seemed to darken somehow. As Aoshi called upon them, each of the Japanese characters began to glow in a different colored light. "Source of light with ancient spin, send forth the magic power within. Oracles of Gold, Wood, Fire, Earth, Cloud, Wind, Rain, and Electricity: come forth! Cast off your creator's spell and heed the Cardcaptor's plea. Suspend the magic instrument of concealment, suppress and bind it!"

The barrier spells that Okina and Misao had been chanting all night long suddenly grew into effect. These spells were meant to prevent any magic from entering or leaving the barrier. It was cast not on Sakura and Kenshin in some far off mountain, not over Kyoto which was in danger of being split into two by earthquakes, not surrounding the Aoi-Ya, but the barrier was placed over the something in the very room everyone was in.

The Clow Book.


"It's time. Time to enact our plan."

Sakura looked at Kenshin and Kero, waiting for their approval. Kenshin solemnly nodded, and clenched his fist. "We cannot allow Shishio to run amok any longer. The battle for the world's fate has only just begun."

Kero, on the other hand, was much more apprehensive. "Sakura, are you sure about this? The most you ever did at once was eight, and that was a long time ago…"

Sakura shook her head, "And I've only grown stronger since then. Plus," Sakura held up her wand. "I borrowed some of everyone's magic before we left the Aoi-Ya just in case something like this would happen. That combined magic power should be more than enough to equal Yue-san's magic, even if it is only for a moment. One moment is all I need." When Kero still appeared hesitant, Sakura pleaded, "Please, Kero-chan. I can't do this without you."

Kero was silent for a long second. He sighed, "All right, Sakura. I trust you."

Sakura smiled, her eyes glowing. "Thank you. That's all I need." Without looking back, Sakura walked towards Shishio, Kenshin and Kero at her back. They stopped when several meters separated them.

Shishio chuckled at the determined expression on Sakura's face. "Still you resist me and my fated rule? I suppose it wouldn't be very much of a fight if you just give up. These," Shishio lifted his hands to his side, gesturing to the many Clow Cards' light orbs that surrounded him. "…these Clow Cards that you call your friends will be the end of you."

Kenshin raised his voice and taunted, "You would use someone else's power to prove that you are the strongest of all? You're nothing but a hypocrite, that you are."

Shishio snorted. Placing a hand on his hip, he explained, "I have realized that conundrum as soon as I learned of Clow Reed's existence. That's why I tainted the Clow Cards in the first place. Not only would they commit acts they would not of otherwise, but they are entirely powered by my magic, not Clow Reed's, not the Cardcaptor's. Mine. They are my cards." Shishio grinned and cocked his head to the side. "Maybe I should call them Shishio Cards."

"They're powered by Shishio's magic?" Kero said in an awed whisper. "To power that many cards at once… his magic rivals Clow Reed-sama's magic…"

"And I am stronger than Clow Reed-san," Sakura cut in. Taking a step forward, Sakura challenged, "How about a bet, Shishio-san? You want to be the next Cardcaptor, right? Controlling the Clow Cards is a big part of the role, but it's not the only part." Sakura tilted her head back, letting the rain fall over her as she recited, "It's about being the mightiest, the most powerful magician in order to keep the world's magic in balance.

"So far you've shown that you can 'seal' the Clow Cards and that you can change the world's magic balance. But there's one thing that you haven't done yet."

Intrigued, Shishio rubbed his chin. "Oh?" He cocked an eyebrow at Sakura. "Do tell."

Slowly, Sakura lowered her head to stare at Shishio. The man who was more demon than the fire spawn he had created. The man whose actions could very well inadvertently destroy the world. "You haven't shown that you are stronger than me."

Shishio raised his sword in front of him. Within a blink of an eye, flames consumed it. Clow Reed was a fool that couldn't recognize the source of the strength: ultimate power." Shishio spun in a circle, his sword trailing a burning wave of fire. "I am the one thing that is stronger than all others!"

Sakura threw her wand out to the side, shouting, "Then prove it! For I will erase the taint you put on the Clow Cards and transform all of the Clow Cards into Sakura Cards at once!"

Silence. Aside from the sounds of the storm, the entire arena was silent. Shishio regarded Sakura without comment, probably wondering if Sakura was strong enough to convert all 52 cards into Sakura Cards under her power at the same time or not. Hōji, for once, wasn't gloating when he asked, "And how do you expect to do that?"

"Yeah, Sakura-chan," Kenshin added in a whisper from behind Sakura. "How will you overcome Clow Reed's spell he placed on the Clow Book and Clow Cards?"

Sakura smirked. She and Kero had already figured out how. She needed to reclaim the Clow Cards from Shishio. There was only one way Sakura could think of: transforming the Clow Cards into Sakura Cards. To do so, breaking the spell Clow Reed had placed on the Clow Book, the Clow Cards, and the wand was necessary. The spell that Clow Reed created ensured any time traveling Clow Cards and the wand were the same state as the Clow Cards and wand of the time period the they traveled to.

So what to do? That's where Aoshi-san and Misao-san come in, Sakura thought to herself. Aoshi, Misao, and Okina's task was twofold. First, using ancient spells, they broke Clow Reed's spell on the Clow Book. However, breaking Clow Reed's spell would greatly weaken the magic of the Clow Book. The Clow Book's magic would be so little, the seal on the Clow Cards it contained would break. Then came the second step. Having two sets of Clow Cards active at once would destroy the balance of the world's magic. Therefore Aoshi, with Okina's and Misao's support, placed a magical barrier on the Clow Book. In place of the Clow Book, the barrier acted as a seal on the Clow Cards.

At Sakura's signal Aoshi and the others undid Clow Reed's spell and cast the barrier on the Clow Book and its Clow Cards. Now Sakura could transform the Clow Cards Shishio had into Sakura Cards without fear of upsetting the world's magical balance too much. That is, if Sakura had enough power to transform all 52 cards at once. If Sakura could prove herself stronger than Shishio and overcome the taint he infected all of the Clow Cards with. It all came down to a match of magical strength, of willpower between Shishio and Sakura. Could she do it? Sakura didn't know, but she couldn't just let the world crumble before her eyes.

Sakura glanced up at the sky and murmured, "We can't wait any longer." The storm clouds above the mountain stretched on for miles, raining down their rage of thunder and lighting. Rain fell in torrents, soaking everything below. The wind ripped its way through everything while earthquakes still shook the earth below them. "Things will only get worse." Sakura turned to smile at Kero and Kenshin, who nodded at her. "I have to do this." After Sakura uttered those words, her wand transformed into the Star Wand, the symbol of Sakura's magic.

"Wow…" Kenshin said in awe. "Is that…?"

"They must have broken Clow Reed-sama's spell," Kero said. "But…" Kero gestured to Shishio's Clow Card light orbs. "Even though the spell is broken, the cards aren't changing back inta their normal forms as Sakura Cards. Shishio's tainting has interfered. It seems that ya have ta overcome Shishio's power and transform all 52 Clow Cards into Sakura Cards at once."

"Well," Kero said quietly, "Ya'll need me ta do it." Sakura turned her head to the side to see Kero extending his paw towards Sakura. "I'm not in my true form and we're using the stored up magic from everyone to replace Yue, but… I have faith in ya. Ya've grown so much in all da time we've been here. I believe in yer power, Sakura. Save the world."

"Kero-chan…" Sakura whispered, tears in her eyes. Then she nodded with determination. "All right."

Kero was lifted higher into the air before an inner light enveloped him. Closing her eyes, Sakura raised the Star Wand. The star of the wand began to spin as Kero became a yellow mist. Strands of the mist swirled around Sakura's wand before it entered it completely. In a burst of light, the wand transformed yet again. The five pointed star had four more points, symbolizing an increase of power. The wand grew in length; it was almost twice Sakura's height.

"Now," Sakura stated. "Now is the time."

A glowing magical circle appeared below Sakura's feet. Wind burst out from Sakura, blowing her hair and clothes wildly. The world seemed to darken, the light of the approaching dawn swallowed by black. Sakura held the Star Wand in front of her. At Sakura's call, her and Syaoran's Clow Cards surrounded the Cardcaptor as balls of light. Despite the darkness, an inner light of courage shown through Sakura's eyes. There was a determined set to her mouth and jaw. "Let's do this."

"Hmph," Though Shishio tried to appear nonchalant, no one couldn't see the excitement building up in him. A sadistic smirk twisted his mouth as he entered a fighting stance with his burning sword. "A test of might, my magic against your magic… the winner shall be the mightiest. I will kill you and Battōsai and become the strongest Cardcaptor magician of all of the world." A fire magic circle blazed into existence underneath Shishio's feet as he screamed, "No, of all time!"

Sakura lifted her giant wand into the air. "Clow Reed foretold that I would be the strongest magician. I have surpassed even the creator of all of these Clow Cards. I draw my power from the light of the stars, which shine through the darkness. By my name as Cardcaptor of the Stars, you will be stopped!

"Cards created by Clow, abandon your old form and reincarnate under the name of Sakura, your master!"

The glowing essence of the cards transformed into their Clow cards forms. At the same time Shishio and Sakura released all of their magic in a fierce battle of wills to control the cards.

It was unlike anything Sakura had ever known.

The rest of the world seemed to fade away as though there had never anything else. As if the entire world, the entirety of Sakura's existence was this darkened world of magic where a battle of magic raged. It was an intense struggle.

However, thankfully, the Clow Cards she and Syaoran had captured transformed easily. It was only a matter of imposing her will upon them. Since Sakura had sealed them, Shishio's taint had disappeared and the cards were fueled by Sakura's power. While Shishio tried to combat Sakura's order to the Clow Cards at first, the cards recognized that Sakura was their true master and resisted Shishio's meddling. Sakura's and Syaoran's Clow Cards transformed into pink Star Cards. That's 19, including Power, Light, and Dark… All that remained was the 33 Clow Cards powered by Shishio.

As if sensing Sakura's dread and consequently drop in magic, Shishio's deep chuckled resounded through the area. You cannot win, Cardcaptor. It is futile. You, the guardian, and your precious 'brother' will die by my hand.

N-No… I can't… I won't let anyone die! Sakura thought. And yet… fighting Shishio was like Sakura had been plunged into the darkest depth of the sea where there was no light, no other soul, only darkness and the overconsuming desire to breathe. It was like trying to swim upwards to air against miles of underwater pressure. One swam until they couldn't move their limbs anymore, only to realize they had no idea which direction was up. Shishio's magic was so vast, so compressing, so domineering… it was incomprehensible. And it was more than Sakura could take.

Nrgh… Sweat trickled down Sakura's brow as her tired arms began to shake. Despite Sakura trying her hardest, she was barely changing the cards. The line of transformation from a Clow Card to Sakura card was only about a third of the way up from the bottom of the card. For a moment, Sakura wondered, Can I… can I really do this?

Believe in yourself! A voice shouted in her head. The voice was slightly echoy, as though it was coming from a far place, but its urgency pierced through the darkness. Sakura recognized the voice's owner in an instant. Kero. You must pour your emotions into your magic!

Sakura blinked at the voice. Then she nodded. Right, I have to believe that I can do this! Sakura thought. With Sakura's internal proclamation, the transformation line soared. But not for long. As soon as Sakura began to open her heart, her mind became victim to horrible tragedies. Visions flashed before her eyes. Images of an all-consuming fire accompanied by the scent of burning flesh. The feel of sliding a sword into a person's stomach. Dozens of slaughtered bodies unmoving on the ground.

Wha-What are these? Sakura thought, horrified.

These are my memories, Cardcaptor, Shishio answered Sakura. Emotion is the root of all magic, and emotions are quite tied with memories, no? Shishio chuckled, Of course I don't have to explain this to someone like you. These are the moments that I keep forever burning in my mind; they fuel my desire to crush the government, and rule Japan and the world. My desire for my justice to mark the world is the source of my magic. Against that… what can you possibly do?

I… I… Sakura closed her eyes, a shudder running through her. In the face of Shishio's iron will, doubts began to plague her mind. He wants to rule the world. To make the world's magical balance to make people afraid. How can… how can people be so, so evil? Magic within Sakura ebbed away, leaving her arms to become lead pipes. W-Why…?! Why are there people who enjoy watching others suffer?

It's because they do not understand how good it feels to help another, a voice answered. Arms encircled Sakura, filling her with warmth and appreciation. They do not realize that true happiness comes from giving that happiness away.

K-Ken-nii… Sakura thought, touched.

Don't be afraid of Shishio, Sakura-chan, Kenshin's soft voice resounded in her head. You are not alone. This one shall help you as well. This one's magic is yours.

B-But! Sakura cried. Magic is like a person's energy. If you give it to me… with you beaten up so bad I don't know what will happen to you…

This one will be fine, because we are by each other's side.

While Kenshin's voice said this in her head, a sudden rush of magic flowed into Sakura. Each person's magic was slightly different and Kenshin's felt… like a warrior basking in the warmth of the sun. It was strong, but gentle. Firm, but soothing. Just like my nii-chan… thought Sakura tenderly.

When an image of someone's blood splattering the ground came into Sakura's mind, Kenshin instantly replaced it with the memory of everyone having a picnic by the stream. When Shishio stood over a child about to kill them, Kenshin recalled the time when Sakura threw orangeade at the rurouni and Sano. When Shishio cut someone in half and then set them aflame for the sake of training, Kenshin summoned the memory of everyone bickering with each other at Hiko's cabin. The despair and fear Shishio would have instilled in Sakura vanished in the brightness of the memories Kenshin showed her. Shishio's memories could have haunted Sakura forever, but Kenshin gently reminded her that the time she spent with everyone would last forever in her heart. Sakura was filled with a hope that she had never known. Consequently, the transformation line of the Clow Cards reached the midway point. But Sakura's rejoicing was short lived.

When the pair was shown a memory of Shishio standing over a cowering young blood-soaked boy in the rain, something changed. A voice in her head said, There will always be violence… it's a part of life.

Sakura started. Where did that come from? she wondered.

A flash of a young red headed boy being scolding by a man came to her mind. Ken-nii… as a boy? Is this is memory? Sakura guessed. The flashback continued, showing the man shouting at the boy. Calling him a filthy slave, the man struck the boy's face. A-A slave?! I didn't know nii-chan used to be a slave. How horrible!

A new era may be here, but it probably won't be that long until another war. Then more people will die for a pointless cause… it's inevitable.

Is that… Sakura speculated, …Ken-nii's thoughts?

It is Kenshin's inner beliefs, Kero answered. His acceptance of the inevitability of violence is disrupting our magic. The red head's thoughts are too similar to Shishio's beliefs.

No, that can't be! Sakura cried.

There was a sudden drop of the magic they emitted. Magic required a free spirit, not a troubled, confused heart. Wh-What do I do?! Sakura thought in a panic. I… Everyone's magic that was mean to replace Yue was starting to diminish; it was taking them to long to transform the Clow Cards and their magic supply was running low. If Ken-nii and I can't face Shishio with a clear heart… my magic will keep fading away and then… Sakura was shook to the core as a realization hit her.

…I… I won't have enough magic to transform the Clow Cards.

The pressure on her lungs tripled, crushing her. Sakura saw black spots in her vision. A creeping cold spread out from Sakura's core. Sakura closed her eyes as the cold swept through her, knowing the cold was a sign of her rapidly depleting magic. If we lose here and I can't transform these cards into Sakura Cards then… Everything faded to gray. …Shishio wins. He'll take over the world… With its icy tendrils, it froze her entire body before it lastly seized her heart. Sakura gasped, pain lacing through her body. I'm dying. Suddenly the wand in Sakura's hands felt like the weight of the entire world. Her fingers began to let it go.

…And everyone I love will die.

Although there was no one who could possibly hear her, Sakura screamed,

I can't let the world end!

That's right, you won't! You just keep on hanging in there fighting for us!

Yeah, hang in there!

Sakura blinked, confused. Kaoru onee-san? Yahiko? A flicker of warmth appeared in her chest. What are you…?

Do you really think we would let you fight for everyone all by yourself? Yahiko's voice asked in Sakura's head. He snorted, Don't insult us. We of Team Kenshin fight until the very end. And besides… Sakura could hear the grin in Yahiko's voice as he said, you have to win against Shishio to see me become a master of Kamiya Kasshin-ryū and you the best Cardcaptor you can be! Dakara... gambatte!

The kid is right, Sano's voice interrupted. While you've been fighting Shishio we haven't been sitting on our butts, you know? We're supporting you. I'm not so good at this stuff so I'll keep it short: kick Shishio's ass for me!

H-How…? Sakura marveled, utterly blown away. How is this possible? she wondered.

It's your magic! Kero exclaimed. Your plea for help-it reached everyone! And now they are giving you all the magic they have!

U-Um… is this working? Sakura-chan, can you hear me? Tsubame's timid voice resounded in the Cardcaptor's mind.

Though she hardly dare believe this was happening, Sakura answered, Yes… Yes, I can hear you.

Oh, thank goodness, Tsubame exhaled in relief. Some of us may not have magic, but we can still give you our support. We can still share with you our feelings, our hopes and dreams that you'll succeed here and at everything you do in life. You're the best friend I ever had, so I know without a doubt that you can do this!

Tears pricked the corners of her eyes, but her face lit up with an inner glow. You're my best friend, too, Tsubame-chan. You and Yahiko-kun and everyone... And Sakura could feel her friends' feelings pulsing through her, giving her weary self strength. Instead of almost letting her wand slip from her fingers, she gripped it will all her might. To let go of the wand was to abandon her friends and their magic within the wand. Sakura vowed to herself to never let it go again!

Magic is tied to the soul, Kero explained. The connections you've made with everyone in the Meiji era, the ties you formed with everyone across time, they go straight to the soul. When your soul and magic cried out for help, they heard and answered!

As if you really need any encouragement, Misao smugly said. You could probably fight Shishio on your own and then some. But seriously, I couldn't possibly repay you for bringing Aoshi-sama back to me. This is the least I can do for you. I promise that after all this is over you, me, and Himura will go on a joyride touring Kyoto!

Sakura-chan. A soft, but mature voice whispered.

Kaoru onee-san… Sakura smiled, her heart leaping at just hearing her voice again.

Sakura-chan, I know that you miss your old home. But just remember that we're your family here, too. Family doesn't have to be people related by blood-or even people of the same time period! The Kamiya Kasshin-ryū dojo is your second home.

H-Home… Sakura thought, holding back sobs. All this time I wanted to go home to see my family when I already had a family and home here… I love everyone here so much.

Kaoru continued, I am convinced, Sakura, that our meeting was not by chance. You have a purpose to fulfill here in the Meiji era. And that time is now-to fight Shishio and win. But after all that… as I told Kenshin, let's all go back home to Tokyo, ne?

…Yes, there will be violence in life. Surprised by Kenshin's voice, Sakura stilled and listened to him intently. But for every violent act, there is a face, a face of a person who is kind to you. Seeing them smile makes living a life of fighting worth it. I'm sorry, Sakura-chan, for disrupting our magic. But let's never forget this very simple fact… Kenshin smiled in Sakura's mind, We of Rurouni Cardcaptor will be together forever, that we will.

Yes… Sakura whispered. Please, Sakura begged, let me be able to go back home… to be with my family and friends forever…

Channeling her wish into her wand, Sakura pushed her magic into Shishio's magic. A white light flared, illuminating the darkness briefly. The transformation line on the Clow Cards reached at the third-fourths point. Yes, it's working! I have to keep going! Come on, come on…

Sakura sensed Shishio's magic retreat from beneath Sakura's onslaught. However, it didn't last long. Like a vice grip on Sakura's soul, Shishio fought against Sakura. His crazed madness and insanity… Sakura couldn't make sense of it. And in her moment of confusion, Shishio turned the tides. The transformation line plummeted.

No! Sakura cried.

The transformation line stopped at a shaky fourth …for now. The longer the battle raged, the more likely Sakura would give in from sheer exhaustion, help from her friends or no. I don't understand… I'm giving everything I have. My friends are helping me, too. So why can't I transform the cards?

Because you can't win when you're forgetting a large part of who you are.

Sakura gasped, shock freezing her in place. That familiar but impossible voice… could it be… who she thought it was?


Gripping the windowsill, Misao gazed outside the window, searching for a sign. Is Cardcaptor-sama all right? Can she do this?

Almost as though he could read her thoughts, Okina said, "It is impossible for us to judge whether or not Cardcaptor-sama is succeeding."

"…" Misao bit her lip, her eyes downcast. "Cardcaptor-sama can do it… after all we just sent her all of magic we could spare…"

"No. Sakura can't do it. Even after all that, she still doesn't have enough magic."

Misao and Okina turned around to see that strange young man standing behind them. Without acknowledging them, the man walked to beside Misao by the window. "She may have found other people who have watched over her in this time, but she still is denying a part of herself. It's a conflict within her that she has been ignoring all this time. And Sakura will never win if she is fighting herself when facing someone with no doubts." The man smirked, but there was a touch of sadness, of finality to it. "I guess this is where I come in."

"I came to this time…" the man muttered, his eyes lost in memory, "…carrying all the hope and love from the family and friends she left behind… to help her in her darkest hour."

And right before their eyes, the man blurred. He floated slightly off the ground and became transparent like a ghost before disappearing entirely.


You haven't forgotten about me have you, monster? About any of us? Because we miss you, you know…

T-T-T…Sakura's mouth tried to form words, but it couldn't. It simply wasn't possible. After a moment, Sakura inhaled a giant breath and shouted,

Tōya onii-chan!

The only response was a chuckle, but Sakura recognized it as Tōya's laugh regardless. Suddenly memories cascaded into Sakura's mind. Memories of sitting around the table with her father and Tōya. Attending school with all of her friends. Doing chores around the house while trying to keep Kero hidden. Practicing cheerleading drills with Chiharu, Rika, and Naoko. Playing soccer at recess with Syaoran. Falling for Yamazaki's crazy lies. Skating to school alongside Tōya and Yukito. Doing homework with Meiling. Dressing into a thousand different costumes with Tomoyo. Fighting and capturing Clow Cards with all of her beloved friends supporting her.

As the memories flashed through her mind, Sakura began to shake. Her heart trembled with longing. I want to… I want to go… home. She had always buried these memories behind her smile. Had focused on cheering up others in the Meiji era, than allowing her to remember just how badly she wanted to return. But now… More than anything I want…

And then another voice pierced through Sakura's troubled mind. A voice that Sakura had been subconsciously waiting for, that with each and every new voice speaking in her mind she became more and more worried. Was he all right? Was he hurt? But his voice penetrated Sakura's doubt, alleviating her concerns. His strong, warm voice said only two words.

I'm waiting.

One last memory came to the forefront of Sakura's mind and replayed itself.

Though tears were still fresh on her cheeks, her determination shone like the sun in her eyes. "I want you to keep it. There is something I want to tell you, but I won't say it now. Because I want to let that be one more reason why I have to do my best to defeat Shishio and return."

Unsure, Syaoran glanced between the offered card and the resolve in Sakura's eyes. Then he smiled. "All right… if you say so. But, Sakura, you always do your best in everything you do."

Hearing those words, a wave of his love crashed into her. Sakura laughed Syaoran's name, causing more tears to fall. Syaoran let go of the card to hug Sakura fiercely. He whispered in her ear, "I… I'll always wait for you. Forever and ever…"

Sakura never wanted to let him go. Smiling, Sakura buried her face deeper into Syaoran's shoulder. "And I will always come back to you…" ...Syaoran, my love.

Syaoran was waiting for her. And Sakura had promised to come back to him. To tell him something, something very, very important!

Yes… Yes… Tears streamed down Sakura's face. A glow from deep within her began to shine. Her magic returned in full force tenfold. The overwhelming desire to go home… to see her family and friends in the present and the past… to tell Syaoran what she promise to tell him… for a moment it was even stronger than Shishio's aspirations of ruling the world.

Something deep within Sakura surged forth. Bursting out of her, it destroyed the dark world of magic in but a moment. As Sakura descended into unconsciousness, a flash of blinding light turned everything white…


"Sakura-chan! Wake up!"

"H-Huh…?" Groggily Sakura opened her eyes to see Kenshin sitting over her.

"Are you all right?" Kenshin gently guided Sakura into a sitting position with a hand on her back.

"U-Ugh…" Just the movement of rising made Sakura sick to her stomach. The use of so much magic made Sakura feel empty inside. After taking a moment to steady herself against Kenshin, Sakura looked around. It appeared that they were back to battle arena by Mt. Hiei. Judging by Hōji's startled expression, time hadn't passed while they were in the dark world of magic. Above their heads, the storm seemed to have stopped momentarily. The ground below them was strangely still. It was almost seemed like there was a hush over the world, like it was waiting for something…

"Ahaha… haha…"

Confused, Sakura and Kenshin looked up to see Shishio stumbling towards them, laughing. He cocked his head up at Sakura, a sadistic, maniacal grin on his face. Despite the blood on his face there was an unnatural happy gleam in his eyes sent a shiver down her spine. In a throaty, low voice, Shishio proclaimed,

"You lose, Cardcaptor."

"H-Hoe?" With a gasp, Sakura watched helplessly as the large wand within her hands shrunk. It reverted to its normal Star Wand. As though the wand had rejected him, Kero flew backwards out of the wand, hitting the ground. The wand continued to shrink until it became its key pendant form. Glowing twinkles surrounded Sakura, or more specifically, Sakura realized, her clothes. Her clothes changed from her Cardcaptor dress to the kimono she had been wearing at the Aoi-Ya. And with the transformation, Sakura felt magic leave her. A horrible dawning realization began to take form in her mind.

"If those of you who don't have magic have to fight someone with a Clow Card, it is still possible to win. There are three ways: Knock them unconscious. If you do, the card should leave them. The second way is to break their mental concentration. Magicians must focus to order and control a Clow Card with precision. If you upset them, or distract them and make them lower their guard, their magic will be disrupted. That will be your chance. The last method is the most dangerous. If a magician uses enough of their magic that they are so weak they can't use any more magic, the Clow Card will no longer acknowledge them as their master and leave them."

It couldn't be possible… It just couldn't.

The last method is the most dangerous. If a magician uses enough of their magic that they are so weak they can't use any more magic, the Clow Card will no longer acknowledge them as their master and leave them."

"N-No…" Sakura murmured. "No, no, no, no, no…"

If a magician uses enough of their magic that they are so weak they can't use any more magic, the Clow Card will no longer acknowledge them as their master and leave them…

Uses enough of their magic… no longer acknowledge them as their master…

Sakura clawed her face and screamed, "NO!"

"Yes, that's right…" Shishio taunted. "That look of horror… that is what I live for!"

The twinkles of light around Sakura left her, heading towards Shishio. The key pendant shot towards Shishio, who grabbed it with his free hand. In a dazzling array of light, Shishio transformed before everyone's eyes. His purple kimono became embroidered with a gold design. Black ink appeared on every bandage on Shishio's body; their markings were that of ancient spells. Shishio's sword became lit aflame again with unholy black fire. The pommel of his sword transformed into something resembling the end of Sakura's wand. In place of a star was a black sphere of nothingness.

In her battle with Shishio, Sakura used all of the magic she had left within her. Despite her friends helping her, their combine magic spanning miles, Sakura had no magic left at all. But Shishio did. And because of that…

Shishio lifted his sword into the air. The earth shook and the storm renewed itself as he shouted, "I am Shishio Makoto, Cardcaptor of the dark void of Outer Space!"

Tears fell down Sakura's face, but she didn't notice. Her lungs burned for air, but Sakura couldn't take in another breath. Her arms and legs quivered, but Sakura did nothing to stop the tremors. She felt nothing. Nothing at all. Only one thought was in her mind.

I failed…

"N-No, this can't be possible!" Kero cried. "Yue will never accept you as the next Cardcaptor. Ya would never pass his judgment!"

Shishio smirked, "And why do you think I left that fool behind in the future?" Kero was struck dumb. At Kero's expression, Shishio only laughed.

I failed…

Shishio pointed his sword at Kenshin and Sakura. "Now as my first act as Cardcaptor, in order to leave no room for doubt as to who is superior, I will kill you, Battōsai, and you, former Cardcaptor." No one moved a muscle as Shishio slowly approached them.

I failed…

But in the midst of Sakura's anguish, one voice shouted about all the rest. "No, don't give up hope yet! There's still one last thing we haven't used…"


As Kenshin watched Shishio menacingly walk towards them, Kenshin loosened his grip on the sakabatō hilt. They had already tried to fight against Shishio's 30 some Clow Cards by making them Sakura Cards. What else could they do? Now Shishio had 52 Clow Cards and all the powers of the Cardcaptor. There was nothing a mere swordsman like Kenshin could do…

Yes, that's right… The malevolent presence that had entered Kenshin when Shishio bit him whispered in Kenshin's mind. You can't possibly win. Even if by some miracle you do, your life will be filled with nothing but fighting. There may be friends waiting for you, but you're too exhausted to lead a life of fighting for their sake.

For a second, Kenshin let the evil presence have its way. Its pull on Kenshin was so strong. Really, he was utterly exhausted. Its logic was sound. His entire life was bursting with fights. All Kenshin wanted was peace, for himself, his friends, for Japan. But to live was to fight.

And Kenshin was so sick and tired of fighting.

The world seemed to lose its sound as Shishio strolled towards them. Hōji's cries of praise of Shishio, the thunder, the earth's quaking, faded away. All that filled Kenshin's sight was a blazing Shishio smiling down at him.

You're too tired to fight anymore… The presence murmured to Kenshin. Let the next generation face Shishio.

The next generation… Kenshin's eyes unconsciously flickered to Sakura sitting beside him. Her face was completely drained of blood. Her eyes were sightless. Her mouth hung open muttering an incoherent mantra. No, it sounded like…

"I failed…"

The despair in Sakura's voice… it shattered Kenshin's heart, banishing the weakness within him. Kenshin would never, let his weakness cause his beloved little sister pain. Never!

In one smooth motion, Kenshin stood up and sheathed the sakabatō. Falling into a crouch, Kenshin shouted, "No, don't give up hope yet! There's still one last thing we haven't used…

"The Amakakeru no Hirameki."

Hearing the name of Hiten Mitsurugi-ryū's ōgi, Shishio paused. "Oh, right. You haven't used it yet." Shishio hung his head, shadows covering his eyes. His shoulders shook. "Do you really think…" He raised his head and grinned at Kenshin. "…a puny move like that could win against the most powerful being in the universe?!"

Kenshin gripped the sakabatō hilt with his right hand. Kenshin said quietly, "No. But it will with someone's help." Turning his head to Sakura, Kenshin pleaded, "Sakura-chan, this one needs you. The fight isn't over!"

Kero looked up at Kenshin with open awe on his face. Sakura, however was unconvinced. In a desolate voice, Sakura asked, "But what can I…?"

"You can believe in this one. When you believe in this one, that everything will be all right, it gives this one strength." Kenshin smiled lovingly at Sakura and said, "It makes this one invincible. So please, believe in your older brother."

A little bit of light appeared in Sakura's eyes. She muttered, "My invincibility spell… everything will be all right… Yes…" After a moment, Sakura clenched her hands into fists and nodded.

Shishio chuckled, "I don't know when I've had so much fun. Not since the Bakumatsu, surely. And yet, I do still have a country to rule, and a world to conquer. I'm running out of time to play with you."

Turning to Shishio, Kenshin took a step forward. "For this one there is little 'fun'… accomplished as you may be. And yet, if you wish to speak of time, Shishio, you must know the age of the hitokiri is long since past."

Shishio smirked, "So long as I bear this sword of human flesh, it shall never end!"

"It ended when this one took up the sakabatō."

"Now!"

Shishio and Kenshin charged at each other at the same time, their inhuman speed blurring their figures. Kenshin stepped forward with his left foot and swung at Shishio from the left. Instead of hitting Shishio's body, the sakabatō clanged against the metal of Shishio's sword. Sliding his sword down the sakabatō, Shishio deflected Kenshin's blade.

Hōji grinned, "Shishio-sama has reflected it! So much for your 'ultimate secret'!"

"The final act has come." Dragging his sword along the entire length of its sheath, Shishio set his sword aflame in a black fiery tornado, fueled by human flesh and magic. "The last move. Kaguzuchi!"

Sakura stood up and cried, "Nii-chan! I believe! I believe that together we can do anything!"

Yes… that's right… Kenshin thought as he felt Sakura's magic pour through him, much, much stronger than ever before. Anything… Anything at all… After Shishio parried Kenshin's blade, Kenshin kept on pivoting on his heel.

"What… what the hell?" Shishio gaped.

Shishio was being sucked into the space between Shishio and Kenshin. The air pushed out by the deflection of the first strike had created a vacuum, sucking objects into it. A vacuum aided by Sakura's magic. The Amakakeru no Hirameki was god speed battōjutsu. All battōjutsu of Hiten Mitsurugi-ryū were all based on two step attacks! The Cardcaptor could use magic other than just relying on the Clow Cards!

"Aaaahhhh!"

Kenshin smashed his sakabatō into Shishio's side, launching him into the air. Screaming, Shishio flew upwards, then crashed into the ground, leaving a man sized crater. Kenshin fell to his knee, gasping for breath. Sakura and Kero rushed to his side. But before they could inquire about Kenshin's health, Shishio began to rise.

"Ngrh… Ergh… Bleaaaaargh!" Stunned, Kenshin could only watch as me sort of strange, bubbly liquid spewed out of his mouth. Shishio's body began to convulse as red steam poured from Shishio's body in waves.

Hōji stammered, "Shishio-sama can't fight for more than fifteen minutes… And that limit passed ages ago… With no sweat glands, Shishio's internal temperature must be sky rocketing. It's igniting his blood, fats, and oils… No… No, this can't be…"

As the light of dawn pierced through the dark storm clouds, Shishio's entire body burst into black flames. With its blazing heat, Sakura cried out in fright.

Gazing at Shishio burning, Kero said solemnly, "The devil that emerged from the flames of the Bakumatsu returns now to those flames once more…"

Kenshin only watched in silence as Shishio began to laugh. The flames consumed his entire body while Shishio laughed. Why he died laughing, what he was laughing at… was lost to everyone. The fire died down, leaving nothing but a pile of ash. Everyone gasped as something glowed from within the ashes. A small object floated into the air, then flew towards Sakura.

"My key pendant…?"

In a flash of light, Sakura's kimono transformed into the Cardcaptor outfit. The key pendant became her Star Wand. The 52 Clow Cards appeared in their true forms in a circle around Kenshin, Kero, and Sakura. The sight was awe inspiring. At an unseen signal, all of the Clow Cards bowed or dipped towards Sakura. Mirror took a step forward.

"You, Kinomoto Sakura of the Stars, with your righteous heart, are the only Cardcaptor we call our master."

Light nodded, "There is a certain level of magic that a person must have in order to be able to control us cards. For a moment, your magic dipped below that level. Taking advantage of the opportunity, the man named Shishio Makoto used the last of his magical strength to claim all of the cards."

"However," Dark explained, picking up where Light left off, "because Shishio Makoto depleted all of his magic in trying to subdue us, his body could not handle the additional magic power that comes with being a Cardcaptor. And Clow Reed-sama had one last secret he took to the grave."

"Secret…?" Sakura asked. Kero only nodded and grinned.

"It's that the Cardcaptor must be pure of heart!" Mirror chirped. "If the Cardcaptor is a righteous person, they will use us cards as Clow Reed-sama intended: to keep the world in a magical balance."

"And Shishio…" Kenshin started.

Dark answered, "We judged Shishio Makoto's intentions to be unjust. Therefore, all of the cards rejected him. Shishio Makoto could not handle the level of magic that a Cardcaptor requires, and consequently he was destroyed."

"That's right," Kero interjected. He crossed his arms. "Shishio died because he could not handle the overwhelming power that comes with becoming the Cardcaptor. Also, there is no power to draw from the cold, emptiness of space. Space is expansive, but nothing could ever live there. Space is dark matter, or anti-matter. It is literally nothing. The nothingness of space and the emptiness of his ideals… it consumed him."

Sakura murmured, "I see…

"It is true that Shishio Makoto was a fearsome magician. However…" Light winked at Sakura. "…you have been a Cardcaptor since a very young age. What does that say about your strength?"

Blushing, Sakura rubbed the back of her head. She laughed sheepishly, "Uh, heh, well, I couldn't have defeated Shishio-san without my friends and family helping me."

Light acceded, "That may be true. Their encouragement renewed your strength and gave your heart courage. Every person has their own doubts and worries, but when people work together, when they truly believe in each other…"

A hand touched Sakura's shoulder. Sakura looked up to see Kenshin smiling a knowing smile at her. Sakura beamed back up at him.

Light continued, "…then people can overcome any obstacle. But, in the end," Light stared directly into Sakura's eyes. "It was your strength that surpassed Shishio. You are the Cardcaptor whose power keeps us cards in line, who aspires to balance the world's magic supply, and whose heart is more pure than any other. For that reason…"

In a burst of light, all of the cards turned into Sakura Cards. But as they disappeared, Light's voice echoed throughout the arena.

"You, Kinomoto Sakura of the Stars, with your righteous heart, are the only Cardcaptor we call our master."

A silence followed the disappearance of the cards. Kenshin closed his eyes and exhaled, "The flow of time connecting the past, the present, and the future… has not allowed Shishio to continue. Time has chosen which man will survive."

"No! This can't be! Shishio-sama is the winner!"

Kenshin's, Sakura's, and Kero's heads snapped up to see a raving Hōji. "Shishio-sama is incapable of losing!" He ran past the trio, crying, "If you all die, then there is no victor! If you all die, Shishio-sama remains invincible!"

On his way to the doors to the arena, Hōji knocked into Kenshin. It was too much for Kenshin to bear and he collapsed. His vision grew hazy and it was extremely hard to hear.

"…shin…chan! Nii… right? …get up... leave!"

"…idiot… blowing place… have ta… get out!"

That was the last Kenshin heard before he descended into nothingness.


"Ugh…" The muffled sounds of worried voices and the smell of smoke roused Kenshin from his sleep. "Where am…"

"Kenshin! You're awake!"

Kenshin opened his eyes to see a sight he never thought he see again. "K-Kaoru-dono…" Kenshin breathed.

Kaoru smiled down at him, tears in her eyes. "Thank goodness…"

"Is this Kyoto? Then that means…"

Kenshin glanced to the side to see Kero framed by the remains of half burned houses in the background. Kero looked around frantically. "Where's Sakura? Where is she?"

"Sorry, Kero but…" Yahiko's voice said. "But you and Kenshin appeared out of nowhere just now. We haven't seen Sakura or anyone else."

An ice cold fear seized Kenshin's heart. He tried to sit up, ignoring Kaoru's cries for rest. "Does that mean-Urgh!" Kenshin started, then gasped as a pain lanced through his side.

Before Kenshin's eyes, Kero transformed into a giant yellow beast. It looked like a lion, but two wings sported out of his back. Lifting his head to the sky, Kero roared,

"SAKURA!"


Fighting against the pull of unconsciousness, Sakura was left panting heavily. Her cheek, pressed up against the ground, was strangely cold. In her hand, Sakura clasped the Move Sakura Card. It disappeared after its use. So much for Shishio-san saying the Move card was worthless. Sakura closed her eyes. Nii-chan… Kero-chan…

"Ahaha… haha…"

Someone grabbed the collar of her Cardcaptor dress and lifted her into the air. Too weak to resist, Sakura didn't lift a finger to stop them. I'm sorry…

"I should just kill you… No, that's right. I got something much better in store…"

But this is the end of the line for me.

"Ahaha… Ahahahahahahaha!"

I'm sorry, Syaoran-kun. But it looks like I can't do our promise. Everyone, forgive me…


Japanese and RK/CCS Terms Dictionary:

Dakara… gambatte-So… keep fighting, keep at it, etc.

Nii-chan-older brother; can also say onii-san, which is more formal. Ken-nii is another way of Sakura calling Kenshin her older brother. I generally only have Sakura refer to Kenshin without the formal "o" of "onii" and the "chan" honorific instead of the "san" honorific because she feels very close to Kenshin.

Mirror-One of the Clow Cards. Mirror can reflect things like a real mirror, and it can create exact mirror replicas of people. Sakura has used mirror to reflect dangers away and to create a version of herself to distract her family while she captures other cards. Mirror can also talk.


Thought beating Shishio was the end? Nope! Get ready for the real climax!

So, yes, I know I said about a chapter and a half of the fight was left, but this is the end of Shishio (although it was the length of a chapter an a half!) What's coming next, heh heh heh… well, you'll just have to find out! The reason I first estimated a chapter and a half would be left was because I originally was going to have meanwhiles to Kaoru, Yahiko, Syaoran, etc. when they leant their power to Sakura. However, with the fight turning out to be so long, I decided to cut it. That's also the reason why I didn't have Kenshin and Sakura fight Shishio and his 33 Clow Cards. While it would have been fun to write Shishio using all those other cards, it would nearly impossible for Kenshin and Sakura to retaliate. And, as I said, the fight is so long anyway. It is my friend's idea that Shishio would become the Cardcaptor when Sakura used too much of her magic, only to burst into flames and die because he couldn't handle it. I came up with everything else in this chapter, including that Shishio would be the Cardcaptor of dark void of "Outer Space". With this chapter concluded, I hope you enjoyed the fight against Shishio! Feel free to tell me your thoughts-what I did good and what could have been improved on. Thanks!

Hello, Halley Vanaria! I'm glad you are enjoying the fight. I relooked it up and there are 52 cards in the anime besides the Nameless Card, the Nothing, and the Hope. If I remember the movie correctly, Clow Reed created the Nothing as a sort of "negative" to all the other "positive" Clow Cards. The Nameless Card/the Hope is the 53rd card. I hope this clears up any confusion you may have! Thanks for the review.

Hello, Kura! *Waves finger* Nuh, nuh, nuh! I'm sorry, but we're at a point where I don't want to be giving too many clues about what is going to happen next. :) As you pointed out, I am becoming increasingly vague in the "Next Chapter" section. Everyone's plan is revealed in this chapter. Thanks, I'm glad you like the Light and Dark cards. I just figured that Dark being in Kenshin's heart was a logical choice, him being Battōsai and all. Thanks for the review.

Hello, Tom Reidem, it's nice to meet you. Thank you for supporting my fanfic! (Chapter 1) I'm very happy that you are reading this, but please, you do not have to feel the need to review every chapter. I always appreciate reviews and feedback, but I'm just happy that people are reading and enjoying my story. But FYI no matter what the chapter you review, I will reply to you on the latest chapter since that is the most convenient for me. (Chapter 2) Yeah, it is pretty much the same as RK beginning. I was thinking that I might go back after I finish this fic and change or condense the first chapter since it is so similar. (Chapter 3) An Ishida? I assume you are referring to a character of an anime or video game, but I don't recognize the name. Sorry! XD (Chapter 4) I'm glad you enjoyed that chapter and you found it amusing. With each chapter the more differences between the original RK plot arise and the more important magic becomes. Thank you for your reviews! If you have a question, I'll be more than happy to answer you.

Next Chapter: Well, I won't hint towards anything specific, but let's just say there are two things: One, I left something out of the original RK plot that will appear in the future and two there is something that I have foreshadowed numerous times but it never happened. What is it? You'll just have to wait and see…

Thank you, everyone for reading this up until this point! I hope that you continue reading as we approach the real climax…