A/N: Okay, so how was the first chapter? I hope you didin't get too dizzy
about the twists... Hey, that's why it was called a twist... ^^; Anyway,
here's chapter two! Read on! Reiviews please!!!!
Chapter Two: Sunset
Days passed and there was no trouble occuring in the dojo. Kaoru asked Magdala if she wanted to be her student because she said, "Ladies need something to protect themselves in times of danger, especially now. It's not safe, you know, especially you..." Those words were something, I must admit. She need to have self-defense in case of emergency. But really, I want to save her by mine own hands than to depend on the thing she learned about Kendo.
As more days passed, I wasn't troubled by her 'concealed identity' anymore. It was like her presence is the factor which keep me peaceful now. Maybe, if the right time comes, she would reveal her real identity, without hesitation. About her activities, she still continued to draw and paint, and confessed to me one day that she like painting more than learning the Kamiya Kashin. I think so, too. If you're really interested in something, you won't be able to stop it right away. And if you're really interested in that thing, then you will do your best to accomplish that.
I don't know if I am considered lucky, but sometimes stays in my place rather than the dojo. She spends her time listening to my stories and sometimes going to the market to buy food and cook them for the two of us. I fell too fortunate having her in my place sometimes. It's not that I can taste great foods, but because she's here with me, keeping me company when I feel troubled. I just wish that she won't go away when we're together. For me, I feel secured more than she does. I don't cry at nights just because she didn't go to my place-- I don't. What I feel is that when she's around, Sayo's around. It's like she somehow chose to give me another chance to be sure of my feelings... to be able to love again...
Sometimes, I can't help but think that Magdala is Sayo. What if she is? Now, I'm thinking about her again. As I look at her while practicing in the dojo, all I can see now is Sayo... a Sayo brought back to life; for me to be with... here on earth. As she was ble to cope up with Yahiko, he couldn't accept it, so he engaged her in practice fight to test all that she've learned. "I won't be too nice with you, Magdala. Remember, you're just a newbie here, so just accept you can't defeat me." Yahiko boastfully said. "Of course I will. I mean, I'll accept it that I am just a newbie, but what if I'm stronger than you? I'll accept my defeat, but what about you?" She asked in return. "Enough said. Let's get on with it!" Yahiko urged more. "Sure thing," she replied with equal determination. From the looks of it, it seems like they assume that they are in a real fight wherein they have their lives as a bet. As I was just about to give my comment about Yahiko, the fight bagan. Yahiko swung his weapon infront in a fast motion, which Magdala dodged by hopping to her left. She just let Yahiko attack her which made him more furious. I could see the thoughts going inside her head: when the time comes that he's already tired, she would attack him back, which he wouldn't be able to prevent on time because of his already weak stamina. The fight went on and on, Kaoru and Kenshin giving their comments about Magdala. "She's good, isn't she? Why can't Yahiko fight like that?" Kaoru said. Kenshin answered her, "She might just be using her own tactics to outsmart Yahiko. They are using their own styles to defeat the other. It only means she's using all that she have learned from you." "You think so, Kenshin?" She was utterly delighted about that compiment. She continued as she turned her shining eyes toward the two students. "If she shows this to the public, I could become the best teacher again because of what she's learned. I would like to achieve that again!!!!" She exclaimed. I snorted in my place about what she just said. "Hey, she's just naturally great. She just need someone to trigger the ability, that's all. You did your part, and now, she's doing hers. She's just using all she have learned, just like what Kenshin said earlier. You have to admit, she's just better than Yahiko. You never knew, she used to have her lessons about Kendo even before she went in this place." I told her smartly. When I discovered that, I was really startled, but she said, even though she wasn't committing violence when she's holding a wooden sword, her real interests were to draw and to paint. It's too rare to find people still interested in arts or literature. One was Katsu, my childhood friend, and now, it's Magdala. I think it's a great and admireable thing about the women today. Even though some may say that women fighters are much better than people like Magdala; for me, it's more interesting to have a person like Magdala for a company. You'll find yourself closer to the peaceful side than when you have a female fighter with you.
After the continuous swinging of each of their weapons, it's evident that Yahiko is already tired, compared to Magdala who is still composed as if she hadn't been fighting for the past fifteen minutes. Yahiko dropped to his knees and leaned on his bokken. From my location in the end of the dojo, I could hear his deep intake of breaths. "Give up?" Magdala suddenly spoke. I don't know what's going on in his mind, but I could see that he could not believe that a 'newbie' like her in the Kamiya dojo could beat him so easily. "No, I won't! It's not yet through, and I won't give up!" Yahiko shouted. He tried to stand up which obviously cost him strength to do. He regained his composure, but compared to her, it was nothing. Not that I am taking sides, but I could really see that she's going to defeat him. He charged at her again, which she, again, easily dodged. This time, she got her chance and hit Yahiko on the neck. She took advantage of her opponent's weakness and she succeeded. And, I was right. With just one swing of her weapon, the fight ended. She went to Yahiko and turned him over, after he landed face down. "Yahiko, daijobu?" She asked. I heard a painful groan, but he answered, "Hai. Hey, not bad. You did great." He said. "Thanks," she responded. "Same with you. I know that you'll get better once you master all the techniques in the Kamiya Kashin. Who knows, you might even surpass Kenshin... ne?" He smiled and went to his usual manner, "Hahaha! Yeah! Someday, I will!" They both stood up and shook hands. Kaoru rushed towards them and qucikly complimented Magdala. "Hey, that was great! I never knew this was the effect of my patient teaching!" Kenshin and I followed them and went to Magdala. "Hey, what about me? Didn't I do good?" Yahiko asked Kaoru. "Don't worry, Yahiko, you did well, too. But, I wish you could surpass Magdala. You need to practice more. Hey, didn't you know, she had her Kendo lessons before she became my student here! Anyway, that was what Sanosuke said." "Hey, are you implying that I'm not telling the truth? C'mon... ask her then," I said. They turned to her, and Yahiko asked her at once. "Is that true?" Magdala flushed and admitted the fact, "Yes, it's true. But, that was a long time ago, when I was the same age you are now. However, after learning that, I didn't continue it anymore, because that was ot really what I like. I'm more interested in arts and literature than handling swords." "Ohhh.... I see... hey, by the way, do you read books? Or are you an author already?" He asked yet again. "No, I just read books and I sometimes write stories or essays about what I think." She said. "Oh, I see. Anyway, can you teach me how to write some essays or some stories of my own?" "Sure thing! If you want, I could even teach you how to paint or to draw!" "Honto desu ka?" "Hai!" She said. I was dumfounded of her attitude at the certain moment. I was also surprised that Yahiko is now interested to read books! Actually, it was not only I who was startled by this agreement; Kaoru and Kenshin were, too. We have never seen Yahiko act like this before. Usually, he'll just refuse to read any book; but now, he was the one who initiated to do so. He was even going to have painting lessons with Magdala!
Days passed, and still, there was no disturbance in the Kamiya residence. Activities continued and were getting interesting as time passes by. I never knew Magdala has this kind of patience towards Yahiko. However, as weeks gone by, Yahiko grew tired of tese activities and said that he was just fascinated of what interests her--arts and literature. Magdala accepted that, of course. She even admitted that she doesn't have that much zeal in her now because she said that you can't be who you are right now forever. "You can't be who you are right now forever. For example, you like to be a successful swordsman; as time passes, you can never tell, you might become a writer, or a octor, or a government official, and many more. But, it's up to you if you want to live your life like what you have right now, or just choose a path that would change you life for eternity." That was what she said. I believe her. If I didn't meet Sayo, maybe I wouldn't be able to feel too sure about my feelings... If Magdala here didn't bump unto me, then maybe, I won't be this confident today. But, now, questions that were erased from my mind the passed few days, now, it seems like someone had written them again which were now imbeded in my thoughts. I really want to know her, who she really is... Who was Sayo in her life?
* * *
One sunny day, I decided to go Kaoru's dojo to have a little change of pace. It was a monotonous day and there was no interesting thing to do, instead to walk to their place and have a time with them, especially Magdala. As I walked towards the dojo, I could see the sakura trees blooming and some sakura no hana being played by the wind around the town. I inhaled the spring air, again, a fresh one. I wish I had the same time when I met Sayo.
I sighed. No, there is no other words to explain what I feel at the moment. I don't know if I like to see Magdala, or my friends... Maybe, I pay more attention to her than them, but I know they'll understand. What I fear at the moment is that something will happen to her without me knowing it, without me there for her. What if she just left the dojo or worse, she already left Japan? I don't know. Maybe, I would feel sad. Just sad? A thought crossed my mind. 'Maybe...' Are you sure? 'Of course, I am. ' Then, it might just be alright for you if she leaves at the moment? 'No, it's not...' Why, then, don't you tell her about what you feel towards her, before it's too late? 'What... I... feel....?' Yes, the one you feel towards her... That thought couldn't be removed from my mind. The words formed were recorded in my mind, and not too easily forgotten; not easily erased... Like it was shouted to me and repeated to me on and on... What would happen if I tell her what I feel? Wait a minute... what do I feel about her? Isn't it the same feeling you had for Sayo? '...Love...?' Silence in my dictating mind. There was nothing I could hear. There was only a deafening silence. ... Just silence...
As I was thinking about it, I found myself infront of the dojo. I wasn't paying too much attention to where I was going to. "Ohayou, Sanosuke," I heard Magdala spoke, which made my mind be entirely disturbed. "O--ohayou, Magdala..." I heard myself speak. 'Why am I acting like this? Am I nervous? Nervous?! About what?!' I shouted at myself inside. She stopped from scrubbing the dojo floor. "Is something wrong, Sano?" She asked me, as I noticed she was looking at me with a puzzled reaction. "I--iie... Nandemonai... Oh yeah, where's Kenshin and the others?" I asked instead. "Oh, they went to the market to buy food for later." She said. "Why don't you just stay here and wait for them? I guess they're going to be back any moment. And, you may join us, if you want to," she continued. "Uh... sure... anyway, I always do," I said casually. That statement made her giggle. 'I hope I'm not acting too dumb infront of her...' I picked a spot on the part of the dojo she have already finished scrubbing. While I was walking towards that place, she was following me with her eyes until I sat on it. "Do you want some water? You seem pale..." 'Oh no... she noticed...' I was astonished by her comment, but I answered all the same, "Um, yes please... It's getting hot these past few days..." "It seems like it. I thought it's spring... but it seems like we've skipped seasons and dropped in summer!" She giggled at her own humorous idea. "Yeah, that seems like it," I laughed with her. It was soothing to see her smiling. Even her smile makes me comfortable... She went to the kitchen and left me alone for a while, while looking at the stacks of books she might have read a while ago. I picked up one of them and inspected it. I turned it over and I noticed that there were peeled letters on the title. I opened it and scanned the pages. They were written in a language different from the characters used now. I assume they were written in the characters during the ancient Japan. As I scanned the book, I noticed there was a paper inserted in the middle of the book. It was the translation of the poem which was titled, "Fate". The translation of some parts of the poem went on like this:
"...Fate is written by the gods above,
Sent to people by using a dove--
Symbol of peace, purity and love.
...Fate may be of unbearable doom;
Fate may cause to one's eternal gloom;
But could also be one's cause to bloom..."
As I was reading the two translated stanzas, I felt her sit beside me, looking behind from my shoulder. I quickly shut the book and looked at her. "Here's your water," she said while holding the glass infront of her, waiting for me to take it. "A--arigato..." I stammered as I got the water from her. "Sumimasen... I didn't mean to, I was just curious what was there in that book. "Iie... daijobu. Funny, I just found that book in the dojo while I was cleaning, so when I rested for a while, I decided to look at it, but there was more that I've done to that book... I translated some of them because it was strange..." She said. "So, it means that you know the ancient writings of Japan?" I asked her. "Only a few. I don't know all of them, but I can understand some words in it." I let out a whistle... 'Man, isn't she just an exceptional human being? She's too broad... Open-minded... Doesn't she have all?' "Is that great, or what? I mean, hey, you could have done anything else about the book, yet you even considered translating them!" She giggled at my reaction, but she said, "Well, thanks for the compliment. I just wish I could write something like that... I envy those who could write magnificent masterpieces, and be famous and become a legend afterwards... They could become an icon, idolized by all... I always wanted that since I was a child... But now, I somehow believe in it... but still, I just want to be myself, and if ever people will look up at me, I just want them to see what you guys--Kenshin, Kaoru, Yahiko and you--see." "I do believe in you, Magdala. I know, time will come that you will also become a famous person... you still have more time, you know?" She suddenly became serious and said to herself rather than to me, "Maybe not..." I was not able to hear it, so I asked her what she said. "Nothing... hey, aren't you going to drink that water?" She playfully asked me. I remembered... I still haven't drunk any drop of it yet... I laughed guiltily; I was too interested in what she have said, I forgot to drink the water she gave me.
Hours passed and there was nothing that we did except talk about certain things.. Talk and talk, and talk... Of course, it was not just all talks, but also cleaning. Talk, clean. Talk, clean. Talk, clean. Talk, clean. When we finished cleaning the whole house, Kenshin and the others arrived in, at last. "Hey, where have you been? Why did you leave her alone, ne?" I asked them. "We were having a great time buying food in the market, that's all. That's what kept us, you know." Kaoru said back. "Don't you know what time it is? You left us with no food, just to inform you." I said back. "Sumimasen de gozaru," Kenshin said. It was a good thing Kenshin was with them to somehow make us hold our tempers. "Ne, Magdala, here's the food. Come on, we need to cook. These guys are so impatient..." "Ne, Magdala, I hope you wouldn't let Kaoru touch the food you're going to prepare. I might have another stomachache because of her." "Baka na!" And with that, I was rewarded another slap coming from the furious Kaoru. "Aite... Maa... maa..." "Hey, he was just telling the truth...!" Yahiko called out to her when she was out of the way, afraid that she might go after him.
* * *
Hmm... at last... food!!! "Itadakimasu!" We said in unison. Obviuosly, we were too hungry, especially me. I groped for food after food; rice ball after rice ball... there are so much food, I would have thought there is a celebration. "Oh yeah, where did you get money to buy these foods?" I suddenly asked, after we finished the meal. "We helped the merchant who was seeking for his lost item, which was stolen by men." Yahiko explained. "And then?" "We were able to catch the theives, so we were rewarded money for what we have done for him. And that's the real reason why we were late." Kaoru said. "Ohh... okay," I said sarcastically which failed Kaoru failed to dodge. However, she chose not to answer back, but just shrugged off my reaction. "Hey, I forgot, we need to get Dr. Gensai's herbal plants from his friend near the mountains. Sano, could you please do that for us? We still have other things to do," Okay, so here she goes again... "Alright, alright... Hey, thanks for the food, ne?" I then jogged away the dojo, passing through the archway towards out of the dojo. But before I could even turn around a corner, I just heard Magdala shouting, "Matte! Sanosuke, matte!" I stopped my pace and waited for her to catch up with me. "Gomen, ne..." She panted. "Are you in a hurry?" I asked her. "Iie.. I thought of going with you, and they said it was okay. I also want to have a little change of pace from the dojo after the kendo sessions and reading books." "Okay, so, let's go then!"
We walked in silence, away from the dojo and into Dr. Gensai's friend. It was midday and we walked under the pricking heat of the sun, burning our necks. As we walked towards the mountains, I plucked up the courage to ask something about her. I took a deep breath, "Um, Magdala, when's you birthday?" She was caught off guard for I asked the question to break the silence, but she answered all the same, "Um, July twenty-fourth..." "Hey, just one more season and it will already be you natal day! Are you excited about that?" I asked enthusiastically. "No... not really. In the past, I just celebrate my birthday by my own. Even the teacher I worked in as a servant didn't know anything about me, except that I have those interests. I am already used to that. Anyway, nobody's that too interested to know that." "I am." With what I had just said, I thought I carelessly slipped my tongue. No, I really did. Anyway, she didn't bother to let me repeat my words, but instead asked me the same. "When's yours?" "Februrary. Still a long way to go. I mean looooooong." I said as I let out a snort. "Yeah... still a loooooong way to go.." She immitated. We looked at each other and both let out a laugh. How I wish she'd just live with us and always be this happy... If she really is related to Sayo, then I won't forgive anyone who would touch her and get away from me. Zettai ni!
As the laughter soon died out, we found ourselves in the clearing of a forest, which is a little spacious in the beginning. We entered the forest nonchalantly, as if not aware of the queasy atmosphere. Along the way, I again inhaled deeply, praying that she won't notice I'm a bit nervous about what I was going to say. "Magdala..." "Yes?" "I want to ask you something..." "What is it?" I took a deep breath once again, hoping that she won't notice the beads of perspiration in the side of my face. "Have you... you know... have you ever been in love? Have you loved somebody in your life?" Man... I hope I don't look to clumsy about this thing... I really don't know what to say... What if she just laughs at me and say, 'Baka! What were you thinking, why did you ask me that question?' What if she rejects me even before I could speak a word of apology? What if- --? "Yes... once in my life, I loved somebody." She looked straight ahead while she spoke to me. "Though it's hard to admit, I wasn't able to say what I feel to that person. I left too early, that's why..." "What happened then?" "Months passed and then I came back, and now--" "Shhhh.." I stopped in my tracks and held out my hand to stop her from walking. "What is it?" She whispered as she held my arm against her. "Something's not quite right," I answered, telling her what I feel about the place. "I was feeling a little weird since we entered this place." She looked around, wishing to spot something out of the ordinary. "Come out! Show yourself!" I demanded. Something quivered on the side of the way and someone came out. A person with an unusual outfit loomed in our view, and personally, I just thought it looks like he's a member of the circus. He was a blonde guy, having an outfit of um, what do you call that? An acrobat's outfit? No, more like a clown, and the only difference was that he wore skirt. As he stepped out into the light, I noticed he have some chains in his right hand and it looks like they are short. "Hey, what do you want?" "......" "Hey, don't tell me you're scared to death that you cannot even speak." "......" "You're just wasting out time. Come on, Magdala; we need to go back to the dojo before it gets dark. Kenshin and the others might be worried then." As I held Magdala's tender hand, she seemed rooted to the spot, and she couldn't even move. "Magdala, we need to go. You'll just waste your time looking at this guy." I said with more emphasis. I turned to look at her, and it surprised me as I looked down at her feet which were now held by his chains. "Let her go!" I exclaimed as I went after him to punch him in the face. However, before I could even touch that blonde's face, a chain from behind hit me which sent me to land to the ground with a loud thud, as if a barrel was dropped from the rooftop of the tall temple. "Kuso...!" I thought the chains were just short. But then as I looked at Magdala to see if she's stil okay, almost her whole body was wrapped with long chains. Her mouth was covered; her waist will be crushed if he wouldn't stop, for it was evident that the chains were bounded tightly; her feet were lifted from the ground about a foot and her hands were held out to her sides, her fragile body forming a cross. "Magdala!!! You freak! Let her go! Don't use her against me!!! Don't involve her in our fight!!! I'm your opponent, not her, so let her go!!!" I got up as quckly as I can towards her, but I was stopped by the series of chains coming from his hand. I then learned he has this certain power that he have been using to let the chains grow longer and to multiply. I then heard a response from him, at last. "You're right. For now, you're my opponent, so I am using her against you. I know she's your weak point, so when I destroy her with my chains, you will be defeated! It will be my victory!" "What do you want? We didn't do anything to you anyway. What's your problem?!" Kuso... I don't remember anything I have done with this guy. He's insane! I've never confronted such a man! I tried harder to reach Magdala and unbind her of chains, but I failed to do so. I, too, was almost wrapped by the chains. When I was sprawled on the ground, his chains were whipping her from the back, making it bleed. "You didn't do anything against me, but she did. Because of her, my tribe was caught and persecuted. They were slaughtered like animals and were not given another chance. Because of her, I am now living alone in the world, and I want to kill her for that... Why? Are you afraid that she'll leave you at the moment?" "What is it with you? Let her go! I've never met such a man as you. You're a coward! You hear me?! A COWARD!!!!" "A coward, you say?" He still have that too much air of confident which makes him too composed up till now. "Then see her DIE!!!" He then had his chains bound her too tight, and I could hear Magdala's muffled screams of pain. "No... Magdala... NOOOOOO!!!!" I struggled to get up and reach my Magdala, to save her from this insane git. As she was slowly brought to death, the scene triggered me too hard and without me knowing how, I was able to crush the chains going towards me. "What the--?!" I heard him speak, fear and disbelief evident in his exclamation. And just in no time, I came infront of him and punched him in the face. "YOU. ARE INSANE!!!! DIE, YOU COWARD! DIE!!!" I said as I punched him again and again, sendng him to fly everytime I did so. Before he could land on the ground, he was sent above again. I repeated the said action to end his life. All I want is to repay for what he have done to Magdala. After the continuous punches rewarded to him which nearly extracted his life from him, I am now going to completely end his life. "Prepare to die, coward!" I exclaimed as I prepared my last punch for him. "Sa... no... su... ke..." She struggled to speak. As I heard her speak, it prevented me to do the action I was to give him. I turned away from him quickly and went to Magdala. She was still held captivated by the chains, still binded tightly around her body. As I undid the chains easily, like they were just strings, Magdala tried to stand up, but she fell in my arms. "Come on, we need to bring you to the nearest house to let you rest." "Sano... suke..." She repeated my name as she panted hard. I then carried her in my back and prepared to leave the place. But before I could do another step, someone held my feet to prevent me from going away. "What do you want? Be thankful I didn't kill you now. If I wasn't able to control myself, you would have been a feast for the parasites and scavengers in this place." "She won't live any longer. The chains that bounded her contain and secrete venom from the poisonous snake found in the river of Shibo. She will also die, and won't live longer than I." As he speaks, he was coughing out blood, "Remember, we would meet again. I will kill you when that day comes. Don't forget that." "No, I don't think we will still meet. You will die sooner or later, so I don't worry too much. You won't be able to heal yourself that quickly. You will die, coward." And with that, I kicked him which left him sprawled on the ground groaning with too much pain. I ran away as fast as I could, not minding about the amount of blood that was lost during the fight, nor the deep wounds caused by the chain with a dagger on the end of it. All I was worried about was Magdala. She need to be cured right away more than I do. I wish to take her to Megumi's place, but it was too far from here. What I can do for her at the moment is to bring her to a nearest house or small town... if ever I could find one. As I ran, I could hear Magdala's unsteady and shallow breaths--she was obviously suffering from what that freak did to her. "Magdala, you can do this. You musn't let go... Please, hang on..." She coughed out blood, which meant she needed to be cured right away. No, I can't let you die. You just can't. You can't leave me alone... You just don't know, I loved you since the day I saw you.... Your real identity had been a big question for me, nevertheless, whatever happens, whoever you maybe, I will still love you....
Afternoon came too early, as morning was easily terminated. I tried very hard to find even just a household, but I did not succeed. All I could do at the moment was to return to the dojo or go to Megumi's place which were both far. Shimatta! Why wasn't able to save her from that guy? This is all my fault... If I didn't let her come with me, then none of this would have happened. Then, I would still go back to the dojo and sight her, welcoming me back with her usual smiling face, contaning the never ceasing elegance. First, Sayo... she was taken from me by the cruel fate, and even I wasn't able to save her from the man who ended her life. Why is fate like this? Why do gods have to decide one's path: the direction he will take, the actions he will do? Why can't we just stop fate if it would be this cruel? Why can't we do things our way? Are all our actions intended just to fulfill the destiny for us? Why do all of these have to happen? Why can't we just stop all of these? We are just being played by the gods in their own hands. If ever time comes that we need to save the people we love, fate will obstruct our way and interfere... why? Why? WHY? Unanswered questions lingered in my head even as I ran back to the dojo. I need to be strong for her. I don't care if I won't be able to walk anymore, just as long as she stays alive, as well as I. We have to resist fate by using all our ways to be satisfied in doing all our actions. But, why do we really have to meet the people who will leave us one day, maybe in a peaceful way, but can also be in a harsh and unbearable way? Why do people have to suffer and die in the first place? Why can't we just live a life like a god? Immortal? Why do we have to be humans who suffer by the hands of the ruel fate? Why...? "Why...?" That is the only question I could utter at the moment, as I thought of all the humans are going through, especially Magdala. She have been suffering all her life not only because of discrimination, but also of her fate--our fate.
"Sano... suke... please, rest. You need it... more than I do...." Those words made me stop in my tracks and speak to her in a rather strong voice that I didn't intend to do. "No, Magdala. You need to be cured right away. I can't just let you die this way. And don't worry, we're near the dojo already. All you have to do is to hold tight and trust me. I will never leave your side, don't worry. I won't. Zettai ni." I said firmly. I ressumed my quick pace towards the dojo. However, I could really feel that she won't be able to hold on any longer. She whispered to me, "Sano, I don't need to be cured anymore. Could we sit on the grass near the river? I want to spend more time with you..." She coughed, "...before I let go..." There was nothing I could do so I decided to go to the side of the bridge and laid her on the grass. I sat beside her and let her head rest on my shoulder. "How are you? Are you sure you don't want to be cured anymore? ...Why?" I asked her, though it was hard for me to speak. "Just as I said earlier, I want to spend more time with you..." She answered my question, though I could see that it cost her effort to say those words. "Magdala..." "Do you want to know why that man came after me?" "No, I don't need to hear it anymore. Just rest there and save your energy." "No, Sano... there's nothing we can do about it. We are trapped in a situation having no way out." "I know... Okay, so, tell me about it." I looked at her and I was surprised to see she was smiling. 'She's strong... she never gives up the fight...' "Well, when I was a kid, I used to go to other places which make my parents worried about me. One day, I went to a place of my friend. During that time, Christians are persecuted and tortured and slaughtered like animals. We were not accepted by the government, just like now. Anyway, the one that you fought a while ago was my former friend. When I went to their tribe, I didn't know I was followed stealthily by the officials. I was unaware at that time. Then, they attacked their tribe, which I survived to witness. I was able to escape from that attack. Since then, that event couldn't be erased from my mind, and up to date, it's still clear... Like it just happened yesterday." She paused for a while to breathe hard and continued, "With that, he elieved that it was my fault. He thinks that I betrayed him, as well as his whole tribe. But, I was unaware at that time... And whatever I do, his tribe won't be brought back again." "He's selfish, that's all I can say. You were just a child, what do you know about the government's plan to use you unknowingly? Anyway, I'm glad you're alive..." I paused for a while, remembering what I have done to the man a while ago. "I didn't intend to fight him that time, I swear.. But, he was a coward, and used you, instead of fighting me one on one. I couldn't help it but to hurt him badly to retrieve you from that involvement." "Actually, you are the one who shouldn't be involved in that fight. He especially went after me to seek revenge for what I have done to him and his tribe, so it was I who should have saved you from his attacks." "What are you talking about? It doesn't matter to me even though he was your childhood friend. It doesn't matter to me even though I am hurt too much with his chains. All I need to do is to save you from all dangers. And I--" I was silenced by her finger pressed into my lips. "Shhh... I know that..." Silence. Only the distant noise coming from the town was heard, as well as the river's flow. "Do you want to hear something about the man I once loved?" "Oh yeah, you weren't able to tell me that a while ago, because that bastard interrupted you." There was silence once again as I slipped my tongue again. "I'm sorry." "Don't worry, it's okay. Anyway, where was I? I guess I'll start again. You know what? He's fond of vices, he's hot tempered, he likes to fight. But what I see in him, he's kind person and willing to sacrifice himself for people close to his heart. He have this inner strength that when I'm with him, I feel secured. Well, since then, as months passed by, I came back just to tell the thing I wasn't able to tell him. Do you know who he is?" "No. Who is it?" She looked up to my hazel eyes, her dark green orbs locked into mine and just said, "I love you..." "Magdala..." I wasn't able to get it at first, but then I believe that she's pertaining to me. "Sayo... My name is Sayo... That's my real name..." "Sayo? Sayo..." She coughed and she released blood in my clothes. The venom is getting to her whole body and there is no other way to prevent it from happening. "Sayo, you musn't give up... Don't let go... Please... I love you and I musn't leave your side... Please, you need to live... I need you..." I supported her while she was bent down facing the grass. "Sano... suke... You're that man that I once loved in my life... You are the only one... in my life... I... love you..." She looked at me, her face unclear for she was blocking the setting sun's rays, resulting to have her shadow casted at me. "No... no, you can't! You just can't leave me alone... not that you've said what you have to say to me..." Tears started to well up in my eyes and I tried hard not to let them flow with her having to see them... I don't want to add to her loneliness anymore.. I don't want to add to her sufferings now... It breaks my heart to see her like this... I can't accept this anymore... I can't help to lose her again... "Please be strong and never live your life... Don't let this test be an obstruction to stop living your life... You still have friends to be with you in every struggle you have." "No, Sayo, don't talk like that... You can't just die like this... You once had... you left me without even letting me say goodbye... You didn't say goodbye..." "I need to... I have to let go..." "Sayo, listen to me," I said as I released the tears which yearned to flow down my cheeks. "You musn't let go... You musn't..." I held her face infront of me and brought my lips to hers. That kiss lasted long enough before she dropped to her knees. She continued to cough out blood, and I could see she's suffering too much. I hate this! There's nothing I could do to help her at the moment; to alleviate her pain; to keep her here with me... I thought I was the happiest man when she came back.. But I still need to face the consequence of the fate given to me, the favor given to me once again... Why? "Why do you need to suffer like this? Why?!" I asked out loud as she stopped coughing temporarily. "Why do I have to witness this? Why do we have to accept the fate written in the sky? Why, of all people who would leave at the moment, why does it have to be you?" "You can't blame them... Partly, one's action is made by himself alone. It has an effect that may synchronize with the ones written, or may oppose the ones already decided. We just... have to accept... everything that's happening to us..." "No... I can't! This is too much! Why do I have to let you go? Why can't I just keep you here with me forever?" "Having this time with you is already fine with me. I need to let go of the life temporarily given back to me, for I am just a mortal being and could never be like a god who is eternally immortal. I could never be compared to such a Supreme Being, for I am not here if it wasn't for Him. He lend me back my life just to fulfill the wish you asked for... for you asked me to return... to come back.." "Sayo..." "Sayonara, Sano... su... ke..." She slowly uttered as she breathed her last. "No... Sayo... Sayo! SAYOOO!!!!!!!" I cried in the afternoon's still air, and my voice pierced through it. She just left me without letting me say goodbye to her again... My beloved Sayo left me once again during a crying sunset.
Sunset is the time of the day I feel helpless and devastated.. It seems like there's doubt whether you'll see the morning's light the next day. But, for me, it gives strength to struggle to live and face tomorrow, yesterday's activities left behind as history, as we turn another page of our lives...
Chapter Two: Sunset
Days passed and there was no trouble occuring in the dojo. Kaoru asked Magdala if she wanted to be her student because she said, "Ladies need something to protect themselves in times of danger, especially now. It's not safe, you know, especially you..." Those words were something, I must admit. She need to have self-defense in case of emergency. But really, I want to save her by mine own hands than to depend on the thing she learned about Kendo.
As more days passed, I wasn't troubled by her 'concealed identity' anymore. It was like her presence is the factor which keep me peaceful now. Maybe, if the right time comes, she would reveal her real identity, without hesitation. About her activities, she still continued to draw and paint, and confessed to me one day that she like painting more than learning the Kamiya Kashin. I think so, too. If you're really interested in something, you won't be able to stop it right away. And if you're really interested in that thing, then you will do your best to accomplish that.
I don't know if I am considered lucky, but sometimes stays in my place rather than the dojo. She spends her time listening to my stories and sometimes going to the market to buy food and cook them for the two of us. I fell too fortunate having her in my place sometimes. It's not that I can taste great foods, but because she's here with me, keeping me company when I feel troubled. I just wish that she won't go away when we're together. For me, I feel secured more than she does. I don't cry at nights just because she didn't go to my place-- I don't. What I feel is that when she's around, Sayo's around. It's like she somehow chose to give me another chance to be sure of my feelings... to be able to love again...
Sometimes, I can't help but think that Magdala is Sayo. What if she is? Now, I'm thinking about her again. As I look at her while practicing in the dojo, all I can see now is Sayo... a Sayo brought back to life; for me to be with... here on earth. As she was ble to cope up with Yahiko, he couldn't accept it, so he engaged her in practice fight to test all that she've learned. "I won't be too nice with you, Magdala. Remember, you're just a newbie here, so just accept you can't defeat me." Yahiko boastfully said. "Of course I will. I mean, I'll accept it that I am just a newbie, but what if I'm stronger than you? I'll accept my defeat, but what about you?" She asked in return. "Enough said. Let's get on with it!" Yahiko urged more. "Sure thing," she replied with equal determination. From the looks of it, it seems like they assume that they are in a real fight wherein they have their lives as a bet. As I was just about to give my comment about Yahiko, the fight bagan. Yahiko swung his weapon infront in a fast motion, which Magdala dodged by hopping to her left. She just let Yahiko attack her which made him more furious. I could see the thoughts going inside her head: when the time comes that he's already tired, she would attack him back, which he wouldn't be able to prevent on time because of his already weak stamina. The fight went on and on, Kaoru and Kenshin giving their comments about Magdala. "She's good, isn't she? Why can't Yahiko fight like that?" Kaoru said. Kenshin answered her, "She might just be using her own tactics to outsmart Yahiko. They are using their own styles to defeat the other. It only means she's using all that she have learned from you." "You think so, Kenshin?" She was utterly delighted about that compiment. She continued as she turned her shining eyes toward the two students. "If she shows this to the public, I could become the best teacher again because of what she's learned. I would like to achieve that again!!!!" She exclaimed. I snorted in my place about what she just said. "Hey, she's just naturally great. She just need someone to trigger the ability, that's all. You did your part, and now, she's doing hers. She's just using all she have learned, just like what Kenshin said earlier. You have to admit, she's just better than Yahiko. You never knew, she used to have her lessons about Kendo even before she went in this place." I told her smartly. When I discovered that, I was really startled, but she said, even though she wasn't committing violence when she's holding a wooden sword, her real interests were to draw and to paint. It's too rare to find people still interested in arts or literature. One was Katsu, my childhood friend, and now, it's Magdala. I think it's a great and admireable thing about the women today. Even though some may say that women fighters are much better than people like Magdala; for me, it's more interesting to have a person like Magdala for a company. You'll find yourself closer to the peaceful side than when you have a female fighter with you.
After the continuous swinging of each of their weapons, it's evident that Yahiko is already tired, compared to Magdala who is still composed as if she hadn't been fighting for the past fifteen minutes. Yahiko dropped to his knees and leaned on his bokken. From my location in the end of the dojo, I could hear his deep intake of breaths. "Give up?" Magdala suddenly spoke. I don't know what's going on in his mind, but I could see that he could not believe that a 'newbie' like her in the Kamiya dojo could beat him so easily. "No, I won't! It's not yet through, and I won't give up!" Yahiko shouted. He tried to stand up which obviously cost him strength to do. He regained his composure, but compared to her, it was nothing. Not that I am taking sides, but I could really see that she's going to defeat him. He charged at her again, which she, again, easily dodged. This time, she got her chance and hit Yahiko on the neck. She took advantage of her opponent's weakness and she succeeded. And, I was right. With just one swing of her weapon, the fight ended. She went to Yahiko and turned him over, after he landed face down. "Yahiko, daijobu?" She asked. I heard a painful groan, but he answered, "Hai. Hey, not bad. You did great." He said. "Thanks," she responded. "Same with you. I know that you'll get better once you master all the techniques in the Kamiya Kashin. Who knows, you might even surpass Kenshin... ne?" He smiled and went to his usual manner, "Hahaha! Yeah! Someday, I will!" They both stood up and shook hands. Kaoru rushed towards them and qucikly complimented Magdala. "Hey, that was great! I never knew this was the effect of my patient teaching!" Kenshin and I followed them and went to Magdala. "Hey, what about me? Didn't I do good?" Yahiko asked Kaoru. "Don't worry, Yahiko, you did well, too. But, I wish you could surpass Magdala. You need to practice more. Hey, didn't you know, she had her Kendo lessons before she became my student here! Anyway, that was what Sanosuke said." "Hey, are you implying that I'm not telling the truth? C'mon... ask her then," I said. They turned to her, and Yahiko asked her at once. "Is that true?" Magdala flushed and admitted the fact, "Yes, it's true. But, that was a long time ago, when I was the same age you are now. However, after learning that, I didn't continue it anymore, because that was ot really what I like. I'm more interested in arts and literature than handling swords." "Ohhh.... I see... hey, by the way, do you read books? Or are you an author already?" He asked yet again. "No, I just read books and I sometimes write stories or essays about what I think." She said. "Oh, I see. Anyway, can you teach me how to write some essays or some stories of my own?" "Sure thing! If you want, I could even teach you how to paint or to draw!" "Honto desu ka?" "Hai!" She said. I was dumfounded of her attitude at the certain moment. I was also surprised that Yahiko is now interested to read books! Actually, it was not only I who was startled by this agreement; Kaoru and Kenshin were, too. We have never seen Yahiko act like this before. Usually, he'll just refuse to read any book; but now, he was the one who initiated to do so. He was even going to have painting lessons with Magdala!
Days passed, and still, there was no disturbance in the Kamiya residence. Activities continued and were getting interesting as time passes by. I never knew Magdala has this kind of patience towards Yahiko. However, as weeks gone by, Yahiko grew tired of tese activities and said that he was just fascinated of what interests her--arts and literature. Magdala accepted that, of course. She even admitted that she doesn't have that much zeal in her now because she said that you can't be who you are right now forever. "You can't be who you are right now forever. For example, you like to be a successful swordsman; as time passes, you can never tell, you might become a writer, or a octor, or a government official, and many more. But, it's up to you if you want to live your life like what you have right now, or just choose a path that would change you life for eternity." That was what she said. I believe her. If I didn't meet Sayo, maybe I wouldn't be able to feel too sure about my feelings... If Magdala here didn't bump unto me, then maybe, I won't be this confident today. But, now, questions that were erased from my mind the passed few days, now, it seems like someone had written them again which were now imbeded in my thoughts. I really want to know her, who she really is... Who was Sayo in her life?
* * *
One sunny day, I decided to go Kaoru's dojo to have a little change of pace. It was a monotonous day and there was no interesting thing to do, instead to walk to their place and have a time with them, especially Magdala. As I walked towards the dojo, I could see the sakura trees blooming and some sakura no hana being played by the wind around the town. I inhaled the spring air, again, a fresh one. I wish I had the same time when I met Sayo.
I sighed. No, there is no other words to explain what I feel at the moment. I don't know if I like to see Magdala, or my friends... Maybe, I pay more attention to her than them, but I know they'll understand. What I fear at the moment is that something will happen to her without me knowing it, without me there for her. What if she just left the dojo or worse, she already left Japan? I don't know. Maybe, I would feel sad. Just sad? A thought crossed my mind. 'Maybe...' Are you sure? 'Of course, I am. ' Then, it might just be alright for you if she leaves at the moment? 'No, it's not...' Why, then, don't you tell her about what you feel towards her, before it's too late? 'What... I... feel....?' Yes, the one you feel towards her... That thought couldn't be removed from my mind. The words formed were recorded in my mind, and not too easily forgotten; not easily erased... Like it was shouted to me and repeated to me on and on... What would happen if I tell her what I feel? Wait a minute... what do I feel about her? Isn't it the same feeling you had for Sayo? '...Love...?' Silence in my dictating mind. There was nothing I could hear. There was only a deafening silence. ... Just silence...
As I was thinking about it, I found myself infront of the dojo. I wasn't paying too much attention to where I was going to. "Ohayou, Sanosuke," I heard Magdala spoke, which made my mind be entirely disturbed. "O--ohayou, Magdala..." I heard myself speak. 'Why am I acting like this? Am I nervous? Nervous?! About what?!' I shouted at myself inside. She stopped from scrubbing the dojo floor. "Is something wrong, Sano?" She asked me, as I noticed she was looking at me with a puzzled reaction. "I--iie... Nandemonai... Oh yeah, where's Kenshin and the others?" I asked instead. "Oh, they went to the market to buy food for later." She said. "Why don't you just stay here and wait for them? I guess they're going to be back any moment. And, you may join us, if you want to," she continued. "Uh... sure... anyway, I always do," I said casually. That statement made her giggle. 'I hope I'm not acting too dumb infront of her...' I picked a spot on the part of the dojo she have already finished scrubbing. While I was walking towards that place, she was following me with her eyes until I sat on it. "Do you want some water? You seem pale..." 'Oh no... she noticed...' I was astonished by her comment, but I answered all the same, "Um, yes please... It's getting hot these past few days..." "It seems like it. I thought it's spring... but it seems like we've skipped seasons and dropped in summer!" She giggled at her own humorous idea. "Yeah, that seems like it," I laughed with her. It was soothing to see her smiling. Even her smile makes me comfortable... She went to the kitchen and left me alone for a while, while looking at the stacks of books she might have read a while ago. I picked up one of them and inspected it. I turned it over and I noticed that there were peeled letters on the title. I opened it and scanned the pages. They were written in a language different from the characters used now. I assume they were written in the characters during the ancient Japan. As I scanned the book, I noticed there was a paper inserted in the middle of the book. It was the translation of the poem which was titled, "Fate". The translation of some parts of the poem went on like this:
"...Fate is written by the gods above,
Sent to people by using a dove--
Symbol of peace, purity and love.
...Fate may be of unbearable doom;
Fate may cause to one's eternal gloom;
But could also be one's cause to bloom..."
As I was reading the two translated stanzas, I felt her sit beside me, looking behind from my shoulder. I quickly shut the book and looked at her. "Here's your water," she said while holding the glass infront of her, waiting for me to take it. "A--arigato..." I stammered as I got the water from her. "Sumimasen... I didn't mean to, I was just curious what was there in that book. "Iie... daijobu. Funny, I just found that book in the dojo while I was cleaning, so when I rested for a while, I decided to look at it, but there was more that I've done to that book... I translated some of them because it was strange..." She said. "So, it means that you know the ancient writings of Japan?" I asked her. "Only a few. I don't know all of them, but I can understand some words in it." I let out a whistle... 'Man, isn't she just an exceptional human being? She's too broad... Open-minded... Doesn't she have all?' "Is that great, or what? I mean, hey, you could have done anything else about the book, yet you even considered translating them!" She giggled at my reaction, but she said, "Well, thanks for the compliment. I just wish I could write something like that... I envy those who could write magnificent masterpieces, and be famous and become a legend afterwards... They could become an icon, idolized by all... I always wanted that since I was a child... But now, I somehow believe in it... but still, I just want to be myself, and if ever people will look up at me, I just want them to see what you guys--Kenshin, Kaoru, Yahiko and you--see." "I do believe in you, Magdala. I know, time will come that you will also become a famous person... you still have more time, you know?" She suddenly became serious and said to herself rather than to me, "Maybe not..." I was not able to hear it, so I asked her what she said. "Nothing... hey, aren't you going to drink that water?" She playfully asked me. I remembered... I still haven't drunk any drop of it yet... I laughed guiltily; I was too interested in what she have said, I forgot to drink the water she gave me.
Hours passed and there was nothing that we did except talk about certain things.. Talk and talk, and talk... Of course, it was not just all talks, but also cleaning. Talk, clean. Talk, clean. Talk, clean. Talk, clean. When we finished cleaning the whole house, Kenshin and the others arrived in, at last. "Hey, where have you been? Why did you leave her alone, ne?" I asked them. "We were having a great time buying food in the market, that's all. That's what kept us, you know." Kaoru said back. "Don't you know what time it is? You left us with no food, just to inform you." I said back. "Sumimasen de gozaru," Kenshin said. It was a good thing Kenshin was with them to somehow make us hold our tempers. "Ne, Magdala, here's the food. Come on, we need to cook. These guys are so impatient..." "Ne, Magdala, I hope you wouldn't let Kaoru touch the food you're going to prepare. I might have another stomachache because of her." "Baka na!" And with that, I was rewarded another slap coming from the furious Kaoru. "Aite... Maa... maa..." "Hey, he was just telling the truth...!" Yahiko called out to her when she was out of the way, afraid that she might go after him.
* * *
Hmm... at last... food!!! "Itadakimasu!" We said in unison. Obviuosly, we were too hungry, especially me. I groped for food after food; rice ball after rice ball... there are so much food, I would have thought there is a celebration. "Oh yeah, where did you get money to buy these foods?" I suddenly asked, after we finished the meal. "We helped the merchant who was seeking for his lost item, which was stolen by men." Yahiko explained. "And then?" "We were able to catch the theives, so we were rewarded money for what we have done for him. And that's the real reason why we were late." Kaoru said. "Ohh... okay," I said sarcastically which failed Kaoru failed to dodge. However, she chose not to answer back, but just shrugged off my reaction. "Hey, I forgot, we need to get Dr. Gensai's herbal plants from his friend near the mountains. Sano, could you please do that for us? We still have other things to do," Okay, so here she goes again... "Alright, alright... Hey, thanks for the food, ne?" I then jogged away the dojo, passing through the archway towards out of the dojo. But before I could even turn around a corner, I just heard Magdala shouting, "Matte! Sanosuke, matte!" I stopped my pace and waited for her to catch up with me. "Gomen, ne..." She panted. "Are you in a hurry?" I asked her. "Iie.. I thought of going with you, and they said it was okay. I also want to have a little change of pace from the dojo after the kendo sessions and reading books." "Okay, so, let's go then!"
We walked in silence, away from the dojo and into Dr. Gensai's friend. It was midday and we walked under the pricking heat of the sun, burning our necks. As we walked towards the mountains, I plucked up the courage to ask something about her. I took a deep breath, "Um, Magdala, when's you birthday?" She was caught off guard for I asked the question to break the silence, but she answered all the same, "Um, July twenty-fourth..." "Hey, just one more season and it will already be you natal day! Are you excited about that?" I asked enthusiastically. "No... not really. In the past, I just celebrate my birthday by my own. Even the teacher I worked in as a servant didn't know anything about me, except that I have those interests. I am already used to that. Anyway, nobody's that too interested to know that." "I am." With what I had just said, I thought I carelessly slipped my tongue. No, I really did. Anyway, she didn't bother to let me repeat my words, but instead asked me the same. "When's yours?" "Februrary. Still a long way to go. I mean looooooong." I said as I let out a snort. "Yeah... still a loooooong way to go.." She immitated. We looked at each other and both let out a laugh. How I wish she'd just live with us and always be this happy... If she really is related to Sayo, then I won't forgive anyone who would touch her and get away from me. Zettai ni!
As the laughter soon died out, we found ourselves in the clearing of a forest, which is a little spacious in the beginning. We entered the forest nonchalantly, as if not aware of the queasy atmosphere. Along the way, I again inhaled deeply, praying that she won't notice I'm a bit nervous about what I was going to say. "Magdala..." "Yes?" "I want to ask you something..." "What is it?" I took a deep breath once again, hoping that she won't notice the beads of perspiration in the side of my face. "Have you... you know... have you ever been in love? Have you loved somebody in your life?" Man... I hope I don't look to clumsy about this thing... I really don't know what to say... What if she just laughs at me and say, 'Baka! What were you thinking, why did you ask me that question?' What if she rejects me even before I could speak a word of apology? What if- --? "Yes... once in my life, I loved somebody." She looked straight ahead while she spoke to me. "Though it's hard to admit, I wasn't able to say what I feel to that person. I left too early, that's why..." "What happened then?" "Months passed and then I came back, and now--" "Shhhh.." I stopped in my tracks and held out my hand to stop her from walking. "What is it?" She whispered as she held my arm against her. "Something's not quite right," I answered, telling her what I feel about the place. "I was feeling a little weird since we entered this place." She looked around, wishing to spot something out of the ordinary. "Come out! Show yourself!" I demanded. Something quivered on the side of the way and someone came out. A person with an unusual outfit loomed in our view, and personally, I just thought it looks like he's a member of the circus. He was a blonde guy, having an outfit of um, what do you call that? An acrobat's outfit? No, more like a clown, and the only difference was that he wore skirt. As he stepped out into the light, I noticed he have some chains in his right hand and it looks like they are short. "Hey, what do you want?" "......" "Hey, don't tell me you're scared to death that you cannot even speak." "......" "You're just wasting out time. Come on, Magdala; we need to go back to the dojo before it gets dark. Kenshin and the others might be worried then." As I held Magdala's tender hand, she seemed rooted to the spot, and she couldn't even move. "Magdala, we need to go. You'll just waste your time looking at this guy." I said with more emphasis. I turned to look at her, and it surprised me as I looked down at her feet which were now held by his chains. "Let her go!" I exclaimed as I went after him to punch him in the face. However, before I could even touch that blonde's face, a chain from behind hit me which sent me to land to the ground with a loud thud, as if a barrel was dropped from the rooftop of the tall temple. "Kuso...!" I thought the chains were just short. But then as I looked at Magdala to see if she's stil okay, almost her whole body was wrapped with long chains. Her mouth was covered; her waist will be crushed if he wouldn't stop, for it was evident that the chains were bounded tightly; her feet were lifted from the ground about a foot and her hands were held out to her sides, her fragile body forming a cross. "Magdala!!! You freak! Let her go! Don't use her against me!!! Don't involve her in our fight!!! I'm your opponent, not her, so let her go!!!" I got up as quckly as I can towards her, but I was stopped by the series of chains coming from his hand. I then learned he has this certain power that he have been using to let the chains grow longer and to multiply. I then heard a response from him, at last. "You're right. For now, you're my opponent, so I am using her against you. I know she's your weak point, so when I destroy her with my chains, you will be defeated! It will be my victory!" "What do you want? We didn't do anything to you anyway. What's your problem?!" Kuso... I don't remember anything I have done with this guy. He's insane! I've never confronted such a man! I tried harder to reach Magdala and unbind her of chains, but I failed to do so. I, too, was almost wrapped by the chains. When I was sprawled on the ground, his chains were whipping her from the back, making it bleed. "You didn't do anything against me, but she did. Because of her, my tribe was caught and persecuted. They were slaughtered like animals and were not given another chance. Because of her, I am now living alone in the world, and I want to kill her for that... Why? Are you afraid that she'll leave you at the moment?" "What is it with you? Let her go! I've never met such a man as you. You're a coward! You hear me?! A COWARD!!!!" "A coward, you say?" He still have that too much air of confident which makes him too composed up till now. "Then see her DIE!!!" He then had his chains bound her too tight, and I could hear Magdala's muffled screams of pain. "No... Magdala... NOOOOOO!!!!" I struggled to get up and reach my Magdala, to save her from this insane git. As she was slowly brought to death, the scene triggered me too hard and without me knowing how, I was able to crush the chains going towards me. "What the--?!" I heard him speak, fear and disbelief evident in his exclamation. And just in no time, I came infront of him and punched him in the face. "YOU. ARE INSANE!!!! DIE, YOU COWARD! DIE!!!" I said as I punched him again and again, sendng him to fly everytime I did so. Before he could land on the ground, he was sent above again. I repeated the said action to end his life. All I want is to repay for what he have done to Magdala. After the continuous punches rewarded to him which nearly extracted his life from him, I am now going to completely end his life. "Prepare to die, coward!" I exclaimed as I prepared my last punch for him. "Sa... no... su... ke..." She struggled to speak. As I heard her speak, it prevented me to do the action I was to give him. I turned away from him quickly and went to Magdala. She was still held captivated by the chains, still binded tightly around her body. As I undid the chains easily, like they were just strings, Magdala tried to stand up, but she fell in my arms. "Come on, we need to bring you to the nearest house to let you rest." "Sano... suke..." She repeated my name as she panted hard. I then carried her in my back and prepared to leave the place. But before I could do another step, someone held my feet to prevent me from going away. "What do you want? Be thankful I didn't kill you now. If I wasn't able to control myself, you would have been a feast for the parasites and scavengers in this place." "She won't live any longer. The chains that bounded her contain and secrete venom from the poisonous snake found in the river of Shibo. She will also die, and won't live longer than I." As he speaks, he was coughing out blood, "Remember, we would meet again. I will kill you when that day comes. Don't forget that." "No, I don't think we will still meet. You will die sooner or later, so I don't worry too much. You won't be able to heal yourself that quickly. You will die, coward." And with that, I kicked him which left him sprawled on the ground groaning with too much pain. I ran away as fast as I could, not minding about the amount of blood that was lost during the fight, nor the deep wounds caused by the chain with a dagger on the end of it. All I was worried about was Magdala. She need to be cured right away more than I do. I wish to take her to Megumi's place, but it was too far from here. What I can do for her at the moment is to bring her to a nearest house or small town... if ever I could find one. As I ran, I could hear Magdala's unsteady and shallow breaths--she was obviously suffering from what that freak did to her. "Magdala, you can do this. You musn't let go... Please, hang on..." She coughed out blood, which meant she needed to be cured right away. No, I can't let you die. You just can't. You can't leave me alone... You just don't know, I loved you since the day I saw you.... Your real identity had been a big question for me, nevertheless, whatever happens, whoever you maybe, I will still love you....
Afternoon came too early, as morning was easily terminated. I tried very hard to find even just a household, but I did not succeed. All I could do at the moment was to return to the dojo or go to Megumi's place which were both far. Shimatta! Why wasn't able to save her from that guy? This is all my fault... If I didn't let her come with me, then none of this would have happened. Then, I would still go back to the dojo and sight her, welcoming me back with her usual smiling face, contaning the never ceasing elegance. First, Sayo... she was taken from me by the cruel fate, and even I wasn't able to save her from the man who ended her life. Why is fate like this? Why do gods have to decide one's path: the direction he will take, the actions he will do? Why can't we just stop fate if it would be this cruel? Why can't we do things our way? Are all our actions intended just to fulfill the destiny for us? Why do all of these have to happen? Why can't we just stop all of these? We are just being played by the gods in their own hands. If ever time comes that we need to save the people we love, fate will obstruct our way and interfere... why? Why? WHY? Unanswered questions lingered in my head even as I ran back to the dojo. I need to be strong for her. I don't care if I won't be able to walk anymore, just as long as she stays alive, as well as I. We have to resist fate by using all our ways to be satisfied in doing all our actions. But, why do we really have to meet the people who will leave us one day, maybe in a peaceful way, but can also be in a harsh and unbearable way? Why do people have to suffer and die in the first place? Why can't we just live a life like a god? Immortal? Why do we have to be humans who suffer by the hands of the ruel fate? Why...? "Why...?" That is the only question I could utter at the moment, as I thought of all the humans are going through, especially Magdala. She have been suffering all her life not only because of discrimination, but also of her fate--our fate.
"Sano... suke... please, rest. You need it... more than I do...." Those words made me stop in my tracks and speak to her in a rather strong voice that I didn't intend to do. "No, Magdala. You need to be cured right away. I can't just let you die this way. And don't worry, we're near the dojo already. All you have to do is to hold tight and trust me. I will never leave your side, don't worry. I won't. Zettai ni." I said firmly. I ressumed my quick pace towards the dojo. However, I could really feel that she won't be able to hold on any longer. She whispered to me, "Sano, I don't need to be cured anymore. Could we sit on the grass near the river? I want to spend more time with you..." She coughed, "...before I let go..." There was nothing I could do so I decided to go to the side of the bridge and laid her on the grass. I sat beside her and let her head rest on my shoulder. "How are you? Are you sure you don't want to be cured anymore? ...Why?" I asked her, though it was hard for me to speak. "Just as I said earlier, I want to spend more time with you..." She answered my question, though I could see that it cost her effort to say those words. "Magdala..." "Do you want to know why that man came after me?" "No, I don't need to hear it anymore. Just rest there and save your energy." "No, Sano... there's nothing we can do about it. We are trapped in a situation having no way out." "I know... Okay, so, tell me about it." I looked at her and I was surprised to see she was smiling. 'She's strong... she never gives up the fight...' "Well, when I was a kid, I used to go to other places which make my parents worried about me. One day, I went to a place of my friend. During that time, Christians are persecuted and tortured and slaughtered like animals. We were not accepted by the government, just like now. Anyway, the one that you fought a while ago was my former friend. When I went to their tribe, I didn't know I was followed stealthily by the officials. I was unaware at that time. Then, they attacked their tribe, which I survived to witness. I was able to escape from that attack. Since then, that event couldn't be erased from my mind, and up to date, it's still clear... Like it just happened yesterday." She paused for a while to breathe hard and continued, "With that, he elieved that it was my fault. He thinks that I betrayed him, as well as his whole tribe. But, I was unaware at that time... And whatever I do, his tribe won't be brought back again." "He's selfish, that's all I can say. You were just a child, what do you know about the government's plan to use you unknowingly? Anyway, I'm glad you're alive..." I paused for a while, remembering what I have done to the man a while ago. "I didn't intend to fight him that time, I swear.. But, he was a coward, and used you, instead of fighting me one on one. I couldn't help it but to hurt him badly to retrieve you from that involvement." "Actually, you are the one who shouldn't be involved in that fight. He especially went after me to seek revenge for what I have done to him and his tribe, so it was I who should have saved you from his attacks." "What are you talking about? It doesn't matter to me even though he was your childhood friend. It doesn't matter to me even though I am hurt too much with his chains. All I need to do is to save you from all dangers. And I--" I was silenced by her finger pressed into my lips. "Shhh... I know that..." Silence. Only the distant noise coming from the town was heard, as well as the river's flow. "Do you want to hear something about the man I once loved?" "Oh yeah, you weren't able to tell me that a while ago, because that bastard interrupted you." There was silence once again as I slipped my tongue again. "I'm sorry." "Don't worry, it's okay. Anyway, where was I? I guess I'll start again. You know what? He's fond of vices, he's hot tempered, he likes to fight. But what I see in him, he's kind person and willing to sacrifice himself for people close to his heart. He have this inner strength that when I'm with him, I feel secured. Well, since then, as months passed by, I came back just to tell the thing I wasn't able to tell him. Do you know who he is?" "No. Who is it?" She looked up to my hazel eyes, her dark green orbs locked into mine and just said, "I love you..." "Magdala..." I wasn't able to get it at first, but then I believe that she's pertaining to me. "Sayo... My name is Sayo... That's my real name..." "Sayo? Sayo..." She coughed and she released blood in my clothes. The venom is getting to her whole body and there is no other way to prevent it from happening. "Sayo, you musn't give up... Don't let go... Please... I love you and I musn't leave your side... Please, you need to live... I need you..." I supported her while she was bent down facing the grass. "Sano... suke... You're that man that I once loved in my life... You are the only one... in my life... I... love you..." She looked at me, her face unclear for she was blocking the setting sun's rays, resulting to have her shadow casted at me. "No... no, you can't! You just can't leave me alone... not that you've said what you have to say to me..." Tears started to well up in my eyes and I tried hard not to let them flow with her having to see them... I don't want to add to her loneliness anymore.. I don't want to add to her sufferings now... It breaks my heart to see her like this... I can't accept this anymore... I can't help to lose her again... "Please be strong and never live your life... Don't let this test be an obstruction to stop living your life... You still have friends to be with you in every struggle you have." "No, Sayo, don't talk like that... You can't just die like this... You once had... you left me without even letting me say goodbye... You didn't say goodbye..." "I need to... I have to let go..." "Sayo, listen to me," I said as I released the tears which yearned to flow down my cheeks. "You musn't let go... You musn't..." I held her face infront of me and brought my lips to hers. That kiss lasted long enough before she dropped to her knees. She continued to cough out blood, and I could see she's suffering too much. I hate this! There's nothing I could do to help her at the moment; to alleviate her pain; to keep her here with me... I thought I was the happiest man when she came back.. But I still need to face the consequence of the fate given to me, the favor given to me once again... Why? "Why do you need to suffer like this? Why?!" I asked out loud as she stopped coughing temporarily. "Why do I have to witness this? Why do we have to accept the fate written in the sky? Why, of all people who would leave at the moment, why does it have to be you?" "You can't blame them... Partly, one's action is made by himself alone. It has an effect that may synchronize with the ones written, or may oppose the ones already decided. We just... have to accept... everything that's happening to us..." "No... I can't! This is too much! Why do I have to let you go? Why can't I just keep you here with me forever?" "Having this time with you is already fine with me. I need to let go of the life temporarily given back to me, for I am just a mortal being and could never be like a god who is eternally immortal. I could never be compared to such a Supreme Being, for I am not here if it wasn't for Him. He lend me back my life just to fulfill the wish you asked for... for you asked me to return... to come back.." "Sayo..." "Sayonara, Sano... su... ke..." She slowly uttered as she breathed her last. "No... Sayo... Sayo! SAYOOO!!!!!!!" I cried in the afternoon's still air, and my voice pierced through it. She just left me without letting me say goodbye to her again... My beloved Sayo left me once again during a crying sunset.
Sunset is the time of the day I feel helpless and devastated.. It seems like there's doubt whether you'll see the morning's light the next day. But, for me, it gives strength to struggle to live and face tomorrow, yesterday's activities left behind as history, as we turn another page of our lives...