Disclaimer: I don't own the Ronin Warriors or the Dynasty. I'm merely borrowing them for the time being. I'm not making any money off of this anyway… So it's really not a big deal in the grand scheme of things. However. Like a mother protects her young, I will make sure Kenji, Shara, Miaka, Nephalia, Rime, and Eros are safe from the evil influence of wicked authors who would corrupt their perfect natures. In other words, don't use my characters without my permission. ^_^
RebirthNephalia glided across the floor, her hair trailing behind her like writhing snakes. "I do not fear you, Ronin. You cannot use the Armor's full power, remember?" Her white legs flashed into view through the long slits of her robes with each step. "You are nothing to me."
Shara closed her eyes and concentrated. "Don't underestimate me. I am the force of all the Ronin spirit energy." She cut off briefly when another sudden rush of power filled her body. Glancing over her shoulder, the blonde spotted the three Outer Ronins lending hertheir power as well. As the new rivers of light bolstered her strength, Shara felt invincible.
She turned back to the Empress and smiled. "Well, now I am, anyway. You can't stop us. No Dynasty member has ever been able to."
"I am part of the highest level of power. All those you have faced in the past were mere weaklings compared to me." She lifted her hand and a ball of crackling black energy grew from her palm. "My magic is without peer. You shall learn to fear me, little girl."
"Dream on." A shield slid over her lower face and the silver Ronin leapt into battle. Her blade flashed through the air like streaks of lightning, filling the air with blinding flashes of light. But a strange deep violet barrier that enclosed the Empress deflected each strike. As she landed lightly on the ground, Shara glanced up and saw the dark aura still flickering and sparking.
Nephalia extended her hand and casually examined her perfect black nails. Her smile was calm and mocking. "Is that all you've got? I do not have time for such weak foolishness."
"Definitely not. Still got a few tricks in my bag." Raising her other hand, Shara grinned as an energy ball identical to Nephalia's except for its silvery-gold color began to form there. "You're not the only one with magic." She hurled the flashing orb at Nephalia. It struck the barrier and exploded in a burst of light. The shield flickered and faded for an instant, but then reappeared as the same solid wall it had been.
"Pathetic." Nephalia launched the black energy at Shara. The silver Ronin dove to the side, narrowly dodging the attack. The Empress hurled orb after orb, trying to catch Shara with at least one of them. Eventually her wish was fulfilled. The barrage came so quickly that Shara could not avoid them all. A series of three attacks struck her in the shoulder, hip, and knee. The blonde staggered and fell to one knee, pain racing through every nerve.
Nephalia moved closer, charging one final attack that would utterly destroy the silver Ronin. She sent it flying toward the fallen Warrior's head, a triumphant smile curving her lips.
Shara reached for her blade, desperately swiping at the energy ball as it drew closer, trying to destroy it before it reached its target. The silver katana streaked through the air and cleanly divided the sphere into two halves. She started to cheer, but her celebration turned to horror as the two pieces merged once more and connected with their mark. Shara barely had time to snap her head around and bow it slightly so that the magic only struck the top of her head. Yet it still sent her crashing to the floor, on the brink of unconsciousness.
"Shara!" Rowen started forward, but Kale held him back. He struggled against the Outer Ronin's grasp, desperate to save his suffering friend. "She needs me! Let me go! I have to save her!"
"No, Rowen," Kale said firmly. "She must fight on her own. Your interference would only cause problems. Shara has grown weak since the time of Arcain's assault. Fighting alone now is the only way for her to shed the skin of a coward and rise as the Warrior she was born to be."
"I can't just leave her to die!" The Ronin of Strata continued to try and break free of Kale's iron grip. "I love her too much to just stand here and do nothing!"
Sage stepped in front of Rowen and gave him a cold glare. "If you 'love' her, let her be. Now and forever. She needs to stand on her own."
"Sage! She's dying! How can you say that?" His blue eyes grew dark with rage as he returned the glare. "Don't you care about her at all?"
"I love her more than you ever will. More than even she knows. But I understand her destiny. Everything that has happened was fate, all of it leading to this moment when she leaves all of us behind and becomes something greater than we can imagine." He turned and watched as his wife began to stand on shaky legs. "We only hold her back, Rowen. Release her heart so she can soar."
Shara
staggered unsteadily, her ears ringing in the aftershock of Nephalia's
attack.
Gritting her teeth in pain, she lifted her head and met the evil woman's
surprised gaze. "That was supposed to
get rid of me? Didn't even hurt." Her sword raised once more, the blade
humming with power. She took a step
forward, ignoring the scream of her muscles, her eyes locked on
Nephalia's. "I've had enough. Let's end this."
"Gladly, child." She held out her hand and a saber of black light formed from her palm. "How about an old-fashioned sword fight?"
Shara flashed a fearless grin. "Fine by me. I learned from the best." She advanced, holding her blade in front of her to test and see if the barrier still stood. After meeting no resistance, the blonde leapt to cover the remaining distance quickly and whipped her sword down toward the Empress' head.
Nephalia glided backwards to avoid the attack. Shara's blade slipped harmlessly past. She quickly swung her saber to strike the Ronin's sword from the side, knocking it off course and throwing her off balance. The Warrior landed awkwardly, but quickly regained her footing and struck again. Nephalia deflected it easily and countered with a swipe at Shara's right shoulder. She cursed as the blonde woman sidestepped skillfully.
Shara advanced with a series of lightning-quick strikes, trying to force the Dynasty's leader to retreat. But Nephalia blocked each and every one. The Ronin was stunned at her amazing speed. Shara continued her assault, but it seemed impossible to break through the defense of the Empress. And she was quickly tiring from the frantic attacking. That weakness caused her to swing carelessly, giving Nephalia the opening she had been waiting for. With a gleam in her eye, the Empress thrust her blade at Shara's stomach.
The silver Armor shattered.
Shara gazed blankly at the black blade protruding from her stomach. The edges of the wound sizzled as the flesh burned and stuck to the sword. Very little blood trickled from the wound because the blade instantly cauterized it. She watched the sword withdraw and toppled forward to the ground. Her eyes slide shut and all went dark.
"No! Shara!" Rowen strained against the arms that still held him. "Shara! Get up! You can't die! Nooooo!" He jerked back, bowing his head and pressing his palm to his forehead. "… You killed her… Let her die… It's all your fault!" He lunged forward and seized Kale by the throat. "I'll kill you! You murdered her, you stupid son of a—"
Sage pulled Rowen off the former Warlord. "Stop. It won't change anything. And have a little more faith. Shara won't die that easily."
Nephalia's laughter interrupted Strata's reply. "Are you mad? She is a human. She can die. No matter what Armor or power she may possess, your beloved Shara is still mortal." The Empress walked toward them, holding her blade high. "I've killed your Angel, Ronins. Now it should be simple to finish off the rest of you."
Sage drew his sword and stepped forward. "Give it your best shot."
One by one, the other Ronins joined him and the battle began.
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Please. Get up.
The soft, pleading voice stirred her and she slowly opened her eyes. Darkness surrounded her, bleak and somber. Shara settled back until she was kneeling and scanned her surroundings for the source of the voice. She suddenly noticed that her bare skin was radiating a gentle white light. It was frightening in the way it made her feel like a ghost, but also strangely soothing. As she gazed into the black distance, a form of white light began to stride toward her. As it drew near, she recognized the waves of blue hair and gentle teal eyes. He was tall and leanly muscular, perfect in every way. Like an angel descended from heaven. But she knew better. It was the face of an angel concealing the intentions of a devil.
It… It's you… Ouji!
No. No, Mother. He reached out to her with one hand and brushed her cheek lightly. Ouji is no more. All that is left is I. Kenji.
But you… you look like…
That's because his form was an adult version of myself. If I had been given the chance to grow up, it is how I would have appeared. He offered her his hand. Come with me, Mother. I will be your guide.
Wh… Where are we going?
To where we belong.
So… I'm dead, huh? I failed… The guys… I doomed them… And all of Earth. She took his hand, diamond tears forming in her eyes.
No, not at all. This is all an illusion. Your fear has drawn you here. He pulled her up to her feet and placed his hands on her shoulders to steady her as she wobbled a bit off-balance. A fear so strong that it pulled you from reality and brought you here to me. What are you so afraid of?
I… I'm not afraid of anything. Ronins can't afford to be scared.
You lie even to yourself. Every mortal fears something. What is troubling your mind the most, Mother?
Nothing! I just… Her chin dropped to her chest. …I'm going to lose them all, Kenji… I've already lost you… And now they'll all be gone…
Who are you afraid to lose? Sage? The entire planet? Who, Mother? What haunts you?
…All of it. It's all on my shoulders… I'm the hero to this story… It's so much pressure! I can't shoulder it all! Why me? Why is this all shoved on me?!
The why doesn't matter. Accept what is.
But it could've been any of the other Ronins! …Why is fate picking on me?
Why not you? Do you think anyone would happily accept the burden you have been given? Why should anyone have to carry such responsibility? He gazed at her for several moments, as if expecting a reply, before answering his own question. Because they must. No other reason than that.
But I don't want it…
That doesn't matter. You have no choice.
But I—
Enough, Mother. Stop whining already. As Kento would say, you're starting to sound like Usagi. He smiled, releasing her shoulders and taking a few steps back. Let go. Let go of all your fear and terror and feelings of obligation. Stop worrying about all the people you have to save and concentrate on yourself. Let it be as if you are the only person in the world and you are merely fighting for your own survival, if the responsibility you carry is too great. Think of no one but yourself.
I can't do that! She looked horrified. Forget the ones I love? How can you ask me to do such a thing?
Then shut up and do your job. Protect everyone, but do it by focusing on the battle you must fight. Do not let your mind drift to what may come to pass. Dwell in only the present. He flashed her a sweet smile. I know you can do it, Mother. You just have to believe in yourself and in the strength of the bond between you and the others.
Kenji… Shara gazed up at him, basking in the gentle love of his presence. I let you die… I killed you… How can you trust me?
It isn't hard to trust the person who gave you life. He chuckled softly and enfolded her in a warm embrace. I love you, Mom… Part of me wishes you could stay here with me… But you have a job to finish. And I can't be selfish.
She buried her face in his shoulder, holding him as tightly as she could. I wish you could come back with me…
He pulled back a bit and brushed a tear from her pale cheek. Maybe someday, Mother… Maybe someday… Kenji planted a soft kiss on his mother's cheek. It's time for you to return to reality. Be strong, Mother. Show the Dynasty how tough you can really be.
Kenji! she cried as the scene began to fade. Stay with me! I won't abandon you again! I'm sorry! Her hands stretched toward him, but he only grew more distant from her. By all my power, I command you to return to me!
I am always with you, Mother. Don't be afraid. His form grew faint as he retreated into the darkness.
No! Live again, Kenji! With the power of Creation, I demand it to be so!
The ghostly shape of her son turned into a ball of golden energy and vanished from sight. Shara bowed her head, saddened by her loss, yet knowing that somehow things would be made right once again. Closing her eyes, she willed herself back to the life and fate she had to face.
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Shara opened her eyes.
A battle raged around her. The Ronins were relentlessly attacking the Dynasty's Empress, weapons and magic flying through the air like a savage thunderstorm. Yet Nephalia simply stood within her barrier, laughing. The eight still would not surrender. Each was pounding on the wall that stood between them and their target, trying to destroy it in any way possible. But nothing seemed strong enough to break through the aura.
Shara stood slowly, gazing at her stomach as the wound magically began to close. Soon the bare skin was unblemished and smooth. Her fingertips began to glow with a faint silver light that quickly raced up her arms and over her entire body until she was enveloped in a silver cocoon of light. A strength she had never known before began to fill her soul. All the fear and regret that had haunted her for years began to lift away. Now she could see things as they truly were. The world's fate rested on her shoulders, but that wasn't important. All that mattered was this moment, the moment where she would shine and save the only people in the world who counted. Her friends and fellow Warriors. They all shared the same duty; she was never alone, never could be alone. And together there was nothing they couldn't overcome. Smiling, the blonde tilted her face to the ceiling and called out in a gentle voice.
"Armor of Creation!"
The battle suddenly ceased. Everyone turned to gape in amazement at the impossibly bright beauty standing before them. Seven points of light shimmered on her body, one for each of the mystical charkas. A being of enlightenment. A Goddess of silver and white. As the radiance faded, the nine stared at the slender girl's form and the gleaming silver skin covering her body. It should've been impossible. She should have been dead. But there she stood, golden hair shining and emerald eyes glowing with power.
"Shara…" Rowen breathed.
Against his will, Sage's lips curved into a bright smile. "Didn't I tell you not to count her out so quickly?"
Nephalia's dark eyes were blazing. "How? This is impossible! I killed you!" She clutched her blade tighter and advanced toward the silver Ronin. "No matter. I'll end it now! And this time I won't do you any favors!" The Empress launched an orb of energy at the Warrior.
Shara watched it fly toward her, motionless. At the last moment, she deflected it with her radiant sword. Flashing a quick grin, she leapt forward, intending to skewer the wicked Empress. But the barrier was not down. Shara crashed into it and was thrown back by a violent backlash of energy. She landed on her back and did a quick flip to return to her feet.
"I told you I wouldn't do any favors," the Empress smirked.
Shara thought quickly. There had to be some force strong enough to break through Nephalia's shield. She considered using a large burst of her Armor's power, but feared that would weaken her to a point where she wouldn't stand a chance in the final confrontation. Suddenly the perfect idea struck.
"Ryo! All of you! Together! Now!"
He stared blankly at her for a moment, obviously puzzled. Then a flash of comprehension brightened his eyes and he gestured for the other Warriors to form around him in a loose chain. The line shaped into a semicircle around Nephalia. One by one, the Ronins called forth the power of their Armors.
"Iron Rock Crusher!"
"Black Lightning Slash!"
"Snake Fang Strike!"
"Flare Up Now!"
"Web of Deception!"
"Super Wave Smasher!"
"Thunder Bolt Cut!"
"Arrow Shock Wave!"
The eight attacks struck the shield at the same moment. Shara prepared to charge forward the moment it fell, just in case the barrier's destruction would only be temporary. The deep violet aura crackled and sizzled, flickering in and out of view before exploding in a shower of fragmented energy. The Empress stood frozen, disbelief etched on her face. That one moment of shock was all Shara needed.
Lunging forward, she raised her blade to the sky. The air filled with white light that raced toward her sword, making it shine like the moon. As each ray of light touched the katana, a star appeared on the glittering metal.
"Nova Star Burst!"
The brilliant light exploded from her blade and raced toward Nephalia. The Empress raised her hands, trying to restore her shield in defense against it. But there was nothing she could do. It washed over her, coursing through every part of her body. Her dark hair floated into the air and turned a milky white. Rays of light burst from her eyes and mouth. She screamed in anger and terror.
"This isn't over! You'll pay for what you've done! The past will come back to haunt you! I swear I shall return again!"
A flash of black energy streaked from her head, swirled around in the air briefly, and plunged into the ground. The white iridescence surrounding her suddenly exploded into a shimmering shower of stardust, and the Empress was no more.
Shara landed lightly, a smile curving her lips. "No, it is over, Nephalia. You'll never hurt any of us again. I hope you enjoy your stay in Yomi."
Then she was surrounded by her friends, all of them either hugging her or patting her on the back. Shara smiled at each of them, laughing with sheer delight. Everything was okay again. The world would continue, would survive for another day. But even in the midst of all her happiness, there were still dark thoughts haunting her mind. One was of Sage, and other of her lost child. A deep sadness rushed through her as she thought of her son as she had last seen him. She closed her eyes and tilted her face toward the ceiling, the celebration around her quickly fading from her mind.
You can make your wish come true, you know.
The voice echoed in her head once more. But she didn't understand what was said. What wish…?
The one rather similar to the wish you made seven years ago. But now your Armor doesn't have to be completely sacrificed in order to grant it. Just call out with your heart, using the power of Creation, and all shall be taken care of.
It's that simple?
Yes. No trouble at all.
She smiled and folded her arms over her chest. The other Warriors backed away quickly as silver-gold light began to fill the female Ronin. They watched as a ball of golden energy descended from the ceiling and drifted toward Shara. It floated in the air above her head like a small star before merging with her body. She was temporarily encased in golden light, but it soon vanished. Shara stood there for several moments, barely seeming to breathe, as the peaceful feeling filled her heart. As she stood there, her Armor dissolved into the air, leaving the Ronin in a gown of silver silk.
Rowen was the first one brave enough to step forward. "… Shara? You okay?"
Her eyes slowly opened, the serene look still on her face. "I'm better than okay, Rowen… Everything is returning to how it should be…" She pressed her hands to her stomach and laughed softly. "Wishes do come true after all…"
Sage's eyes narrowed as he stared at her, then flew wide as realization struck him. "… You… He… You're…?"
She met his hopeful gaze. "Yeah, Sage… I am."
The iciness in his face vanished instantly. He rushed over to here and lifted her into the air, twirling her around in a circle and laughing happily. "I can't believe it! There's no way! You… Our son…" He set her down on the ground once more, a troubled look flickering in his eyes. "Wait a minute… He will be ours, right?"
Her emerald eyes sparkled up at him. "Of course he will be, Sage. Of course he will." She slipped her arms around his waist and squeezed tightly.
"Shara…" He brushed his thumb across her cheek. A tender smile lit his face. "This is amazing… God, Shar… We're going to have a family again…"
She nodded, returning his smile. "And this time, I'll do it right. I'll protect him so the Dynasty will never be able to touch him. Our lives will be perfect, Sage. No more mistakes, no more… no more lies… I'll never hurt you again, Pachirri."
He chuckled at the nickname. "It's okay, Shar… I believe you." Sage cupped her cheek in his palm and dipped his head, pausing just centimeters from her lips so he could breathe a soft "I love you" before absorbing himself in a passionate kiss.
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AN: Tada! And thus ends the magic tale of Shara and the other Ronins. Well, almost. As I was finishing up this chapter, I was approached by another author who wished to write a sequel to my story. Of course, this was amazing to me, not to mention flattering. I heartily agreed and she is currently finishing up her sequel, and next I think we shall be collaborating on a third part of the story. I promise that they will be even better than what I've already done. So stay tuned for new adventures of Sage, Rowen, Cye, Kento, Miaka, Ryo, and Shara. And maybe the Warlords will drop by for their obligatory scenes. ^_^