Okay, this is my first fanfic, so be kind everyone. Constructive criticism is welcomed because I'd be glad if anyone could give me some good ideas on how to become a better writer. But don't insult me for no reason. If you don't like it, explain why.
Couple people I need to thank. Thanks to Skyrocket and Banji4Ever for their help with some of the facts for this story.
There. I've said what I've needed to. So here's my story.
Awakening Angel
The old woman shook her head in annoyance. Why must you always be so difficult? If your parents could see you now---
But they can't, the young girl snapped. They've been dead for a long time.
Yes, yes, of course. But you carry a tradition---
She cut her off again. I don't care what Grandfather wanted. I am not going to sit around in this boring old house and read all his stupid notes and records.
You must! she said firmly. The knowledge must be passed down, in case it is ever needed again. Yuli taught it to your mother, and now, since they are dead, I must teach it to you.
Like I said before, I don't care! She tossed her long golden hair haughtily. That's all over with anyway. The Dynasty can never return.
But if it does---
It won't! Shara shrugged into her jacket. I'm out of here.
She grabbed Shara's arm. I am your grandmother, darling. I only want what is best for you. Why can't you understand that?
Her expression softened. I know, Grandma. I just . . . don't want to think about the old days. I lost too many people because of those . . . legends. Must you remind me every day?
Child, my intention is not to hurt you. I only want to educate you about our only hope if the the Dynasty does return. Our family holds the secret and it must never be forgotten. The Earth would be lost without them.
Shara sighed. They're gone, Grandmother. Almost totally destroyed, remember? That's how Mom and Dad and Grandpa Yuli died. By trying to help the Warriors. What good did it do them? Two of the Warriors died in that battle. How could three win if evil did decide to return? She shook her head. I won't listen to you. I'm sorry, but I can't lose anyone else. She fled the house.
She looked over the cool blue river and breathed a deep sigh of relief. It was so peaceful here without her grandmother's constant attempts to read Yuli and Mia's data disks to her.
A hand touched her shoulder gently. Are you alright?
Hello, Cye. I'm okay, I guess. Just tired. She smiled weakly at him. Grandma keeps trying to get me to learn the legend of the Warriors. But I don't want to. I just keep think that maybe, if I don't, the Dynasty won't return and we won't lose the only Warriors left.
Don't worry so much about us. Ryo, Rowen, and I can take care of ourselves.
That's what Sage and Kento said, too, and look where they are. Tears filled her eyes. I miss him so much, Cye. Why did he have to sacrifice himself? She buried her face against his shoulder and cried softly.
He patted her head softly. He did what he had to, Shara, to save Earth. I'm sure he would've stayed if he could, but he died trying to stop everyone from being killed. Including you. Sage loved you.
I know. She brushed a tear away. But that doesn't make it hurt any less. In fact, it only makes it worse.
Shara, I--- His voice was cut off as the earth rumbled beneath their feet. What the . . . !
No, no! she screamed. Please, God, not again! The sky turned black and lightning streaked everywhere. Another tremor knocked Shara and Cye off their feet.
It can't be! Cye stared in shock at the giant red and black door that formed in midair. A Gateway!
Shara clutched his arm tightly. How can they be back? I thought you killed them all! Fear clouded her eyes and she jerked her face toward his. You can't go! They'll kill you all!
He shook his head. We can't ignore it. It's our job.
A black-haired guy appeared from the bushes. See it?
Yes, Ryo. I believe it's time to revive our powers. Cye's light blue eyes flashed with certainty.
He closed his eyes and shouted to the heavens, Armor of Wildfire! Tao Chi! With a brilliant flash of light, his red armor appeared, covering Ryo from head to toe. Soft pink cherry blossoms showered around him and his armor glowed with energy.
Armor of Torrant! In an identical fashion, Cye's light blue armor appeared.
Another voice broke in. Armor of Strata! Rowen grinned as the dark blue armor covered his strong body. Hey, guys. Shara.
She couldn't stop the smile from crossing her face. Good to see you again. It's been awhile.
He removed his helmet and ran a hand through his wild blue hair. Too long. How've you been?
Okay. Just a little down recently. Her smile faded slightly. Thinking about Sage a lot. Especially now. A grim look replaced the grin. You can't fight them, you guys. Kento and Sage died last time. I don't want you to suffer the same fate. She held Rowen's hand between her own. Please don't do this.
Ryo shook his head. We don't have a choice. If we don't stop the Dynasty, they'll destroy Earth. We'd die anyway.
He's right, Shara, Rowen said to her, sadness in his midnight blue eyes. We may not win, but we still have to try.
Then I should come. Grandmother has taught me some about fighting the Dynasty. Maybe I could help. She stepped forward and looked from Warrior to Warrior.
Cye took her arm. No. Go back to Mae's house and stay safe. We'll take care of this. Sage wouldn't forgive us if we let you die.
I don't ca---
You're staying. Ryo's eyes were serious. Let's go, guys. The three Ronins vanished into the woods, leaving Shara alone.
The battle wasn't going well. The Dynasty's best fighters were trying to tear the Warriors apart. If they had been complete, the Ronins could possibly win. But not now, only with three. The Earth was in serious danger of being destroyed.
Shara stood on top of a building, watching the Warriors slowly being driven back toward a black vortex. She closed her eyes and raised her hands like Grandmother had told her to. Lady Kayura! Please, come to our aid! Defend our world against the Dynasty's evil!
A misty image of a slim, bluish-black haired woman formed in front of her. Shara . . . The Warlords and I are held in the castle . . . We cannot come.
Then what can we do? Without the Ancient's power, the battle will be lost!
Look inside for strength. It is within you. The image went out of focus. I must leave. My energy is growing weak. Remember what I've told you. With a final encouraging smile, Lady Kayura vanished.
Shara shook her head in dismay. What did she mean? I'm not a fighter. Never have been. She gazed over the rubble-filled city. But I guess I have to try. Turning, she hurried to street level.
Ryo, Cye, Rowen! Shara called out to them. Hang on!
No! Stay away! Cye cried, blood soaking his light brown hair.
She shook her head. No way. Knocking aside a black-clad warrior, she stopped beside Cye. You need me; Lady Kayura said so.
Rowen's eyes were wide. You spoke with Kayura?
Yes, I did. She sa--- Her voice cut off and a strangled gasp escaped her lips. Shara's body was rigid, her emerald eyes wide and unblinking.
Rowen shook her shoulder. Hey, you in there?
Ryo knocked back four more Dynasty fighters. Guys, we better concentrate on fighting before they kill us!
But Shara---
Never mind her! She'll be okay!
Rowen glanced at her one last time. His concentration quickly swung back to the battle.
Concentrate. Call on the power of Halo.
Shara gasped at the voice. Is . . . Is that you?
Of course. I said I'd never leave you.
Oh, Sage. I've missed you so . . .
I know, but we can discuss that later. The guys need your help right now. Do as I said.
What?
Call upon Halo.
But that's only yours. I can't use it.
You can now. Trust me.
But---
Trust me.
Okay, Sage. But you better not vanish after the fight is over. We've got some serious talking to do later.
His soft laughter warmed her heart. Of course, Shara. After the battle.
Her eyes slowly opened. She watched in dismay as Ryo and Rowen were knocked onto the edge of the vortex. Cye was lying a few feet from them, his body limp and torn. Oh, God. I better hurry. She looked up at the rolling black clouds and closed her eyes. Hope you're right.
Rowen struggled to his feet. Get out of here! He started toward her, fighting his way through at least a dozen Dynasty soldiers.
Armor of Halo! she cried into the darkness. Light streaked through the clouds, causing the soldiers nearest to her to scream in pain. As the light wrapped around her, Shara seemed to glow from within with a white hot intensity. The feeling of power that surged in her was almost overwhelming. Green armor covered her slim figure and a long silver sword gleamed in her hand. She turned to look at Rowen, smiling at the look on his face.
Rowen stopped in his tracks. Sh . . . Shara?
She pulled off the helmet, letting her long hair fall freely down her back. For the most part. A little bit of Sage, too.
But how? Ryo was also staring.
Not too sure. But let's not talk about that now. We've got more important things to deal with. She faced the sea of Dynasty members and gulped. Much more important.
Rowen's eyes were serious. Right. Me first. He nocked an arrow into his bow and leaped into the air. Arrow Shockwave! He released the bowstring and the arrow flew into the crowd. A wave of energy spread from where it struck, killing many of the soldiers.
Guess I'm next. Shara smiled. Here goes nothing. Thunderbolt Cut! Bright green light radiated from her blade and traveled outward in an arc, destroying all the of the Dynasty fighters in its path.
Cye was struggling to his feet. I'll try . . . Super Wave Smasher! Blue bubbles of power burst from the tip of his triton. They smashed into the army and dozens fell.
Last as always. Ryo grinned. Alright, take this! He placed the ends of his two katanas together and twirled them through the air. Leaping upward, Ryo held them over his head and cried, Flare Up Now! Heat waves flooded the Dynasty members, causing them to writhe in agony as they died.
Shara laughed. We did it! Her eyes sparkled as she watched the remaining soldiers run back toward the Gate.
Very good, Ronins. A man with gleaming violet hair appeared before them. But not good enough.
Ryo stepped forward, his blue eyes angry. Who are you?
The new Emperor of the Dynasty. I'll make you pay for trying to destroy us. His eyes were dark, almost black, and shone with an eerie light. I'll succeed where Talpa and Edriss failed. He laughed and a shiver raced up Shara's spine.
We'll see about that. Shara held her head high, openly defying him.
He raised on black brow questioningly. And you are . . . ?
Shara Kamura.
Well, Miss Kamura, I don't know how you received the Armor of Halo, and I don't really care. All the matters is that I'm going to kill you. He flew toward them and landed beside Shara. But . . . if you swear allegiance to the Dynasty... I could spare your miserable life.
Yeah, right, Ryo scoffed. Like that's going to happen.
The light in the emperor's eyes intensified. We'll see, Wildfire. Maybe you'll change your mind after you see my power.
Then let's go. Rowen's smile widened. Give us your best shot. But Dynasty trash can never beat the Ronin Warriors!
'Trash'? I'll show you trash! He lifted into the air and twirled a silver staff over his head. Darkness Typhoon!
The Ronins screamed as the black whirlwind swept them into the sky and threw them in every direction. Ryo and Cye slammed into buildings, Rowen and Shara skidded across the asphalt, their armor giving off sparks as it scraped against the hard road.
You okay? Rowen gave her his hand and pulled Shara to her feet.
She grimaced slightly. Think so. Man, that hurt! My body's not used to this kind of abuse. Her eyes widened and her breath quickened. Uh-oh. Sage is talking again. Hold up a second.
Ryo must use the Armor of Inferno. It's the only way to beat this guy.
But doesn't that take all the Ronins' power? We're a Warrior short. Kento's still dead, remember?
Don't forget the Warlords and Kayura. Their Armors are the same as ours. He can use them. But don't let him use you, no matter what.
Why not?
Just don't let him. I'm not sure why. It's just a feeling.
Gotcha. Remember, don't you vanish on me before this is over.
You got it, Shar. I'm not going anywhere.
She looked into Rowen's dark eyes. The Armor of Inferno. It's our only hope. Ryo can use the Warlords for power, but not me. I don't know why not, but that's what Sage said.
Ryo and Cye dashed over, out of breath. What did you say? Cye panted.
Sage said to use the Armor of Inferno by drawing power from Light, Venom, Illusion, and Corruption. But not from me, or the other Ronins, I guess. I don't know if you can choose who to draw from, but you've gotta try. He was very exact about that.
Ryo nodded. Here goes. Flames glowed in his eyes and a light shone around him. Armor of Inferno! Four lights streaked from the gate overhead, each a vivid color. Ryo's red armor vanished and, in a blaze of flames, gleaming white appeared. It shone with its own light and his eyes glittered with an inner fire.
Shara grinned. Very cool. Err.... hot. She watched as the flames under Ryo's feet eventually vanished and turned toward the Dynasty ruler. It's over for you now! Say hello to Hariel's White Armor, the Armor of Inferno! It's strong enough to kill you and the entire Dynasty. So if you have any last words..... Better say them quick.
He merely laughed. Foolish girl.
I didn't hear me say anything funny. Shara propped her hands on her hips and glared at him. What's your problem?
That . . . Armor, he snorted in disgust, may have been powerful enough to defeat Talpa, but it is insulting to believe it can beat me.
We'll see about that. Ryo, do your stuff.
Ryo grinned. And I thought I was leader. When did you take over?
A sheepish look crossed her face. Sorry. Whenever you're ready, Ryo.
Yea, ma'am, he teased. Rage of Inferno! A wave of incredible white hot flame engulfed the emperor and his remaining minions. The soldiers disintegrated before the Ronins' eyes, but the violet-haired just stood in the center of it all, eyes glowing and a mocking smile stretched across his face.
See? I told you, he said smugly. Your pathetic powers can never defeat me, Emperor Arcain of the Dynasty!
Ryo stood silently, his mouth agape.
No way! Rowen shook his head. That's impossible!
Cye fell to his knees and cursed under his breath.
Her eyes growing distant, Shara cried out with her mind to Sage.
It didn't work! You said it would!
I thought it would. This guy is a lot stronger than any other Dynasty member. There's no way I could've known.
So what do we do now?
It's up to you, Shara. You're our last hope.
What? Me? But how?
You have the power . . . A very . . . type . . . Armor . . .
Sage? What's wrong? I can't hear you!
He . . . interfering . . . Shara . . . Angel . . . Can't . . . on . . .
Sage! What did you say? Sage!
Welcome back.
Shara's eyes shot open and she screamed as she found Arcain standing directly in front of her. His black eyes stared into hers and both of his hands were resting on her shoulders.
Get away! She shoved him backwards, trembling with fear and disgust. What do you think you were doing?
Why, I was merely putting an end to your conversation with Halo. Couldn't let him tell you too much.
Ryo stood behind her. You leave Shara alone. I'll fight you and then I'll kill you.
Arcain covered his mouth to smother a laugh. Oh, really? Strong words, Wildfire. I think I'll make you regret them. He leaped into the air, twirling his staff. Ryo followed, silver katanas flashing.
Rowen detransformed and squeezed both her hands between his. You okay? You're trembling.
She made her armor vanish and collapsed on the ground. I don't know. He . . . I . . . I . . . just don't know! Burying her face in her hands, Shara felt tears start sliding down her cheeks.
Hey, hey . . . Rowen fell to his knees, his arms wrapping around her tightly. Don't do that . . .
She lifted her eyes to his. I can't help it. I'm . . . scared, Rowen. The Armor of Inferno couldn't stop him, and Sage . . . I think he's gone. Arcain . . . he . . . I don't know what he did, but . . . I can barely feel Sage anymore. It's like . . . I feel . . . empty. He was trying to tell me something important before Arcain interfered.
What did he say?
She brushed away a tear and grew thoughtful. Something about me being our only hope. Then it gets fuzzy. Something about a type of Armor, and he called me Angel.
Angel? Is that some kind of nickname?
Not that he's ever said before. Maybe---
Ryo's voice broke through. I could use some help over here!
Rowen and Shara looked up just as Arcain knocked Ryo into a building.
Stay here, Rowen commanded. Try to get a hold of Sage or Kayura, while Cye and me help fight. He called on his armor again and hurried over to Cye. Together, the two of them jumped into battle.
Kayura! Please come her! We need you! she shouted to the heavens. Please, Lady Kayura!
A vague figure appeared. Shara . . . Armor . . . Angel. . . Use . . . power . . . you . . . when . . . born . . . important . . . hold . . . secret . . . power . . . yours . . .
Shara almost screamed in frustration. I don't understand! What are you trying to say?!
. . . hold . . . Arcain . . . strong . . . fading . . . use . . . power . . . Angel . . . The image vanished.
Great. I still don't know what to do! She hit the ground with her fist.
A foot landed on her hand. Having problems, Shara?
She ran her eyes up the dark orange armored leg up to the shadowed face. Who are you? How do you know my name?
Forget so fast? He laughed.
A flash of light from the battle above illuminated the man's face. Dark blue hair and eyes. A familiar band tied around his head. A determined look. No way . . . Shara's voice trembled. You . . . you're . . . dead! I saw you killed!
First lesson. Things aren't what they look like always. Kento's eyes were hard as stone. And here comes the second. His foot raised up and swung forward, catching her in the stomach. The air whooshed out of her lungs, and she flew backward over a dozen feet.
She winced as he pulled her head up by the hair. Kento . . . why . . .?
You just don't get it. I work for the Dynasty now. My job is to kill you and the other . . . Ronins. His other hand smashed into her face. But you're not a real warrior, are you? Just a little girl caught in something she can't handle.
Shara felt a surge of pride filling her soul. Little girl? We'll see about that. Armor of Halo!
He dropped her in shock. What the . . .
She pointed the blade at his throat. Can't say I blame you. After all, Sage is dead, but I somehow seem to have his armor. You must be confused.
Oh, yeah? Well guess what. It doesn't matter. He quickly regained his composure and raised his Naginata. I'll still kill you. Kento jumped back and laughed. See if you can take this. Iron Rock Crusher!
The earth shook and boulders flew through the air, crashing into buildings and cars. The ground opened up and rushed toward Shara. She leaped out of the way and rolled onto the sidewalk.
Cye landed between Shara and Kento. How . . . What are you doing here?
She struggled to her feet. Get . . . away . . . Cye . . . He's working for . . . the Dynasty . . . Arcain sent him to . . . kill . . . us . . .
Hey, Cye. Glad you're here, man. She just tried to kill me.
Don't . . . listen . . . Cye . . .
She attacked me, man. Kento slowly approached his old friend. I came to help out, and she tried to slit my throat. She's crazy, Cye.
But you used your power against her . . .
I had to defend myself. He shrugged. What was I supposed to do?
Shara started in their direction. she accused. Ask him now he got here, Cye. Ask him!
His eyes darkened slightly. Yeah, Kento. Where've you been for the last three years?
They captured me. The Dynasty. I've been a prisoner, but I heard you guys fighting and knew I had to help. So I escaped. He touched his shoulder. We've been friends for two life times now. Don't you trust me?
Of course I d---
Shara pushed Kento away. Cye, how could he get out? Not even Kayura and the Warlords have been able to escape, and they're much stronger! He works for Emperor Arcain, Cye. We can't believe anything he says.
Cye looked at her sadly. Shara . . . are you sure?
He said so. I'm positive.
Kento seemed confused. What? Cye?
He closed his eyes. Sorry, my friend . . . Super Wave Smasher! The bubbled struck Kento in the chest, knocking him down.
Kento rose slowly. Well, well . . . Another traitor . . .
Look who's talking, Shara sneered. Thunderbolt Cut! Green light flashed through the air, causing Kento to writhe in pain. She stood over him, sword poised for the final blow.
Cye grabbed her arm. Don't kill him. Kayura may be able to change him back.
She lowered her weapon. Sure, Cye. Whatever you think.
Rowen and Ryo hit the road beside them, their armor dented and scratched. Arcain landed beside the Ronins and laughed.
Foolish humans. Didn't I tell you that you could never win. He looked down at Kento's still form and a look of disgust twisted his features. Useless trash. I never should've saved you from dying. You've been nothing but a burden. He raised his staff in the air. It's time to rid myself of you.
Cye flung his body at Arcain, causing them both to skid across the road. The emperor's black robes ripped and tore.
Arcain growled angrily as he leaped to his feet. How dare you! His bo twirled faster and faster. Time to die, Torrant! Violet light surrounded Cye and seemed to flow through his body, lighting in from the inside. A harsh cry of pain filled the air.
Shara kneeled by her friend. Don't give up now! I need you . . .
He gave her a weak grin. Sorry, Shara . . . It's all . . . up to . . . you . . . I . . . believe . . . in you . . .
How sweet. Arcain was gazing down at her, laughter in his eyes. It's now on the little girl's shoulders. Victory is mine. Just give up now and save yourself a lot of pain.
She rose slowly. In your dreams. I'm gonna kill you.
Sh . . . ra
She gasped and stood perfectly still.
Ar . . . r . . . f . . . An . . . el . . .
Use . . . A . . . or . . . o . . . A . . . el . . .
Realization finally hit her. Yes! I understand!
Arcain's weapon whistled through the air and crashed into Shara's skull, buckling her knees and sending her crashing to the ground. He brought the staff down over and over, denting her armor and staining her golden hair red.
No . . . Shara struggled to push herself up. I . . . won't . . . give . . . up.
Stupid girl! Just stay down and your death will come much quicker.
She stood before him, battered, but still proud. You'll never stop the Ronin Warriors!
He shook his head. You're the only one left. How can you possibly hope to defeat me.
You'll see. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. This is for you, guys . . . Armor of Angel! Tao Chi!
Her armor started to glow, as did Rowen, Cye, and Kento's. Ryo's separated into the Warlords' colors, yellow, and red. The colored lights streaked toward her and combined into a golden beam. The air crackled with energy as cherry blossoms showered down. Blinded by the brightness, Arcain looked away.
When the light faded, Shara stood in gleaming gold armor, her helmet in her hand.
the emperor gasped. What is that?
She pointed her slim blade at him. The Armor of Angel. The power of all nine armors combined. Your worst nightmare.
I'll still kill you! Nothing can stop the Dynasty! He swung the staff at her head furiously. She easily blocked the blow with her sword.
Is that all you've got? Come on, try again. She blocked him again. Block. Block. No matter how fast he attacked, Shara's blade was alway there to stop it.
Arcain's eyes were ablaze with hatred. Die, Ronin! DIE! Twirling his bo over his head, he shouted, Darkness Typhoon! The dark wind whipped furiously around him and rushed toward Shara.
She held her sword parallel to her chest, bracing herself for the blow. To her surprise, when the whirlwind struck her, the sword absorbed the energy and began to glow.
He fell back onto a car and stared. It can't be!
Your turn. She leaped into the sky and raised her blade high. Holy Judgement!
Radiant energy pulsed from the sword, brightening the sky with beautiful golden light.
The . . . light . . . he croaked. Noooooo . . .
It penetrated his body, causing every part of him to glow with holy light. Crying out in anguish, Arcain's body spasmed as it realized death was imminent.
Then he was gone.
Shara landed on the ground and looked around at her fallen allies. Cye . . Rowen . . . Ryo . . . I'm so sorry I didn't help sooner. If I'd only understood before . . . She fell to her knees, tears shining in her eyes. Please forgive me, guys . . .
A soft cough.
She scrambled over to him and pulled off his helmet. You're alive!
He managed a weak grin. Yeah . . . just barely. He looked toward Ryo and Rowen. Better go . . . check on . . . those two . . . I'll . . . be fine . . .
Are you sure? He nodded. Okay. I'll be right back. Rising to her feet, Shara rushed over to check on her friends. She pulled off their helmets and pressed her fingers to each's throat, checking for a pulse. A hand clamped down on her arm and she screamed.
Hey . . . a voice whispered. Not so loud . . .
She hugged him tightly. Don't you scare me like that!
He lowered his arm and winced. Not so rough . . . I feel like one big bruise . . . Groaning, he rolled over and looked at Ryo. Is he okay?
Ryo's hand moved in a feeble wave. Fine . . . Never been better . . . He struggled to sit up. Shara . . . that Armor . . . how . . .
She smiled. I don't really understand it myself. I guess--
Let me explain. Lady Kayura appeared above them, the Warlords at her side. She floated down to the earth, her staff shining and ringing softly.
Shara was born on the same day as the five Ronin Warriors. I didn't believe that had any special meaning, until I heard a voice while I was imprisoned.
Shara frowned. Who was it?
Ryo suggested.
Yes. He said that . . . other Powers had told him of a legend, never recorded here on Earth. A legend the Dynasty feared more than anything else; even more than the Armor of Inferno. She looked toward Ryo before returning her attention to the entire group. This story had faded over the millennia to the point where only a select few were aware of it. Arcain had heard it, but chose not to believe that something so powerful could exist. An Armor that could destroy even the most powerful evil force, that could wipe out not only planets, but entire galaxies.
Kayura touched Shara's shoulder. That is the Armor of Angel, a holy armor that can only be worn by a Chosen One. A person of true innocence and purity of heart. Shara, you almost lost this power.
Cye's eyes were confused.
Never mind. Shara blushed. I know what she's talking about. It was after Sage died, and I . . . She had to look down. I don't want to talk about it.
Rowen nodded slowly. I understand.
She gazed at him sadly. Yeah. I knew you would.
Yes, well, Kayura said, the only question is, what are you going to do with your power, Shara?
she hesitated briefly, fight, I guess. Protect Earth from whenever the Dynasty returns.
Is that what you truly want?
Shara couldn't answer.
Lady Kayura. Cye stood slowly. Could you heal Kento? Erase whatever spell the Dynasty placed on him.
Of course. She held the staff over Kento's still body and it began to glow. The golden light surrounded his body and lifted him up from the ground. With a brilliant flash, Kento appeared, standing, his armor brighter and shining.
Hey, guys. What's happenin'?
Cye ran to his friend and hugged him quickly. You're okay!
Why wouldn't I be? He looked around in confusion. Hey, where's Sage? And that Edriss guy? What is Shara wearing?
Cye smiled. That's a long story, my friend. Basically, the battle you remember was three years ago. Sage and Edriss are dead. We thought you were, but Arcain, the new emperor of the Dynasty, saved you and turned you against us. Shara and I stopped you, and then she called on the Armor of Angel, which is the combined power of all nine armors and what she's wearing now, and defeated Arcain. Kayura used her staff and removed the spell cast on you.
Kento leaned against a car, shaking his head. Uh . . . yeah. Right.
Rowen slipped his arm around her shoulders. Are you okay?
She sighed softly. I . . . sure. Never better. I just found out I'm the most powerful person alive! What more could I want?
Bowing her head, Shara forced a smile. Yeah. But that's impossible, right? Should move on . . . She raised her eyes to his. Rowen, you know---
It's okay. I know.
She nodded. Tears gathered in her emerald eyes. I wish . . . that there was some way . . . somehow . . . for him to come back . . .
Shara backed away suddenly as her armor began to glow. What . . . what's happening to me? It grew brighter and brighter, until they all had to look away. The night sky was now as bright as day.
Then she began to scream. Over and over, each cry louder than the last.
Rowen reached for her, but had to yank his hands back. Her armor felt as if it was on fire. Melting onto her flesh. Growing hotter and hotter until her skin peeled off in blackened flakes. He shuddered at the thought.
Rowen! Please help me! It hurts so much!
Her cries pierced his heart, and he grabbed for her. Kayura stopped him.
No. Let her be. Everything will be fine.
He stared at her in disbelief. How can you say that? It's killing her!
Trust me. This is something she has to do.
Hotter and hotter it burned. Stronger and stronger the pain grew. She screamed desperately, crying out for someone, anyone to help her, to make it all end. The pain obliterated every sense, leaving nothing but the torturous feeling. There was no outside world for her. There was no her. No humanity to cling to, nothing to help escape. Nothing but the pain . . .
Then came a momentary peace from it. The pain wasn't gone, it was only slightly apart. Like a void had opened.
Darkness. A realm devoid of light and happiness. Desolate. Alone. All alone in the dark. Humanity's greatest enemy. Couldn't think, couldn't breathe. Almost like the shadows were a physical force, crushing her body.
Her? Yes. Her. She. I. Me.
Shara.
She sucked in air with a gasp. The memories destroyed by the pain came flooding back at once. She remembered a battle, Kayura, Ryo, Cye, Rowen . . .
Sage. His face filled her mind. Him laughing, smiling, crying, serious, hurt, brave. Every memory vivid. Every thought like a warm summer breeze to her heart. The longing she had managed to push away after he died came surging back, no longer willing to be denied.
Is that what you truly want?
She knew the answer now. No! she screamed as loud as she could. I don't want to fight anymore! All I want is him! Sage! And I want out of here!
A pinpoint of light appeared far away. As she kept crying out, it grew larger and larger, closer and closer. She reached for it with both hands. It wrapped around her like a blanket of warmth, shielding her body from the pain, heat, and darkness. It pulled her quickly from the void, and she felt like she was traveling through the very fabric of time and space. Then with one last flash of light, the emptiness was gone.
Shara collapsed at Rowen's feet. Kneeling, he slipped one arm beneath her neck and the other under her knees. He gently lifted Shara from the ground, her body much lighter without the armor. Rowen carried her over to where Kento stood and laid her on the hood of the car.
Hey, is she okay? Kento looked worried.
Hope so. He turned to face Kayura, his dark blue eyes blazing. How could you let this happen to her! I thought you said she'd be okay!
She will be. Do not worry, Rowen. She is much stronger than you think.
He angrily turned his back on her and rubbed Shara's hands softly. Wake up, Shara. You can't quit now.
She didn't respond.
Come on! He banged his fist on the car. Wake up!
Her eyelids flickered. Once. Twice. Slowly opened.
Ro . . . Rowen?
He held her tightly. I thought we'd lost you . . .
No . . . I'm fine . . . She separated herself from him slowly and looked around. Where . . . Why . . .
Rowen wasn't listening. Look, I know what we said that night, but, Shara, I've changed my mind. I know you love Sage, but do you think there could ever be a chance for---
What's that? A faint light was beginning to appear a few feet away. She slid off the car and took a hesitant step toward it. Could it . . .
He caught her arm. No, you better stay away.
She wasn't paying attention. As the light grew even brighter, it drew her closer and closer until she could almost reach out and touch it . . .
Rowen yanked her away.
Let me go! Shara struggled against his firm grasp. I have to!
It suddenly exploded. Energy flowed from the light, washing over everyone and everything. Rowen and Shara fell to the ground in a tangled heap.
Then it was gone.
Shara raised her head and squinted into the darkness. A lone figure was coming toward them, but it was too shadowy to see any distinguishing features.
Listen to me, Shara. Rowen took her hands in his. I lo---
Oh, my God! She leaped to her feet as the person got close enough to see. Longish thick blond hair. A strong, slim body. And the most incredible, unmistakable clear blue eyes. Hey, Shar.
Then she was running, tears streaming down her face. Shara ran straight into his open arms and buried her face in his shoulder. She felt his arms around her, holding her like he never wanted to let go. His soft breath ruffled her hair.
Love you . . .
Sage . . . As she tilted up her face to receive his kiss, she smiled in her mind. At last. My wish has finally come true . . .