Summary:  Natsumi is adopted by Japanese man. Her love in the past, Siegfried Schtauffen, and her trouble with the future takes her on the adventure of her life. She reclaims her glory through hardships, and lust, but overcomes all obstacles with the Sword of Light.

Disclaimer: I do not own any of the characters in the Soul Calibur series. The History, Characterizations, and Design are the sole property of Namco.

"New Balance" is a trademark of New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc.

"Fallen Embers" and "Marble Halls" are the sole property of Enya and/or Warner Bros. Intl.

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Chapter 5!, what can I say. This chapter isn't really rated R. I'd say PG-13. Warning! Shonen-ai! I hope you like this chapter. I was kind of thinking about what I should include. Sort of iffy, sometimes where my direction takes me. Sorry but it's going to be long. R&R

The Sword of Light

by Elysium's Hour

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Chapter 5: The French Obsession

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France – 16th century

The air was growing cool, and the leaves were beginning to change.  Natsumi looked up at the sky, as she lay in the wagon. She was sick, and they had not reached a town in days. They had been on the roads for two weeks now, and it was not going well. Siegfried was too proud to stop at the cottages they passed to ask for help.  She hadn't spoken to him for two days.  He spoke to her not expecting an answer, trying to calm her nerves. She was wrapped in blankets, wearing layers of clothing.  They needed a bath, and fresh clothes, but Siegfried would not budge.  She closed her eyes, and thought of her warm bed at home.  She could feel the warmth of her father's love, when she was sick as a child.  The world stopped for her, and he gave her his undivided attention.  She wished that she were never given the sword. She wanted to go back home, and Siegfried was driving her crazy.  He was talking to himself now, laughing, and kicking at the wagon.  He was growing insane, though he already was in a way.  He told her of 16th century ways. He told her people would go without baths for months.  She opened her eyes, and coughed.  He smelled awful, and she couldn't stand it anymore.  His blonde hair was matted, and his face smudged with dirt. His clothing was worn, dirty, and full of holes. Natsumi had never gone without a bath or a shower this long.   They were in the south of France, riding past little cottages, and shacks.  Siegfried had confused himself, and figured he took a wrong turn somewhere.  Natsumi was fed up because he wouldn't let her help him. He was sick too; she assumed he had the influenza. He voice was scratchy, as mucus ran down his nose. He began yelling at her, wondering why she would not talk to him.  She rolled her eyes, and turned on her side.  The wagon began to turn and darkness clouded her eyes. Siegfried steered the wagon into a forest trail and stopped it.  He jumped back into the wagon, and sat next to her. Natsumi covered her nose when his smell hit her face.

"Siegfried, I'm serious. We need baths, and new clothing. We can't keep riding forever. We need to stop somewhere," cried Natsumi, sniffling. Siegfried wiped his nose with his sleeve, and narrowed his eyes at her.  Natsumi closed her eyes, and shook her head.  "Well!" She yelled, tugging his arm.  He only lay down beside her, and wrapped his arms around her waist.  They both were too ill to do anything.

"Let us sleep. That is all. Sleep," he said, simply.  He rubbed his hand over her arm, and squeezed her. He let out a sigh, which sounded more like blowing air into a balloon. Natsumi lay there annoyed, and closed her eyes to see her warm bed again.  She was asleep soon, and dreamt of sitting by a fire with all the food she could eat.  Siegfried sat by her, his face clean, and his green eyes shining. He wore black, and kept a smile on his face.  She smiled back at him, and grabbed a piece of bread and devoured it.  Natsumi smiled in her sleep, this was what she wanted.  She wanted to feel the soft comfort of the warm bed. She wanted to feel the fresh smell of new clothes.  She wanted Siegfried and her to take a bath. She did not know how they would. She learned that the people of this time were not too keen on taking baths, because it opened their pores. This would bring diseases into their bodies, or so they thought. She never understood that, she loved Siegfried, but he was disgusting when it came to hygiene.  The last bath they had was in a little clear pond deep within a forest in Northwest Germany.  It really did not do any good, because they had no soap. Siegfried wiped scented oil over his body, and told her that was that people used it all the time.  His teeth were surprisingly clean and white. He had a jar of mint leaves and red wine vinegar and used it as mouth wash. Natsumi used it a lot, because it actually worked well. 

Natsumi felt the wagon move and slowly opened her eyes.  She moved her head slightly around towards Siegfried, his arms were still around her. He was snoring loudly, and she had to cover her hears.  She lifted her head up and saw a woman on a horse following the wagon.  The wagon moved slowly, down the wooden trail.  The woman looked down at Natsumi, and smiled.  Her brown hair was slightly grey, and she had it stuff in a bonnet.  Her eyes were stern yet soft, and her wrinkled face seemed stiff.  Natsumi lay her head down and looked up at the sky.  She did not wake Siegfried, because she knew that they were being helped.  The pain in her head made her winced, and she closed her eyes.  Siegfried's arms squeezed her waist, as he moved his head closer to her shoulder.  The wagon stopped and Natsumi opened her eyes, she saw the face of an old man staring down at her. She sat up quickly, startled, and shook Siegfried. He snorted and sat up quickly, looking around.  He rubbed his eyes with his hand and narrowed his them at the old man.  The old man had a long white beard and little blue eyes.  He had long grey hair, which was tied into a ponytail. He smiled at the two of them, and held out his hand.  Siegfried slowly moved his hand to shake the old man's hand. Natsumi smiled at him, and unwrapped herself from the cocoon of blankets.  A trail of mucus made its way out of Siegfried's nose, and Natsumi cringed. He wiped it away on his sleeve, and grinned at her.  She sighed, and jumped off the wagon.

"Where about, are you young ones from?" asked the old man, walking around the wagon. Siegfried walked to the old man, and smiled.

"I believe, old stranger, that ve are lost. I got confused and I think I took a vrong road," he said, proudly, sniffling.

"Oh, I see. A German, are you?" asked the old man, narrowing his eyes at Siegfried. Siegfried turned around and looked at Natsumi, then back at the old man.

"Yes, I am," said Siegfried, running his hand over his nose.  The old man looked over at Natsumi, and pressed his lips together.

"Who might she be?" he asked, pointing to Natsumi. Natsumi gave the old man an annoyed glare, and sighed.  He seemed to be asking them irrelevant questions, very slowly, and in an extremely ridiculous manner. She almost laughed when she thought about it. Siegfried turned around and looked at Natsumi, as he held his arm out to her.

"This is…uhh…this is…Natsumi," replied Siegfried, looking at her, nervously.

"What's that?" asked the old man, stepping closer to get a look at Natsumi. The old woman walked out of the stable and stared at the couple, brushing a strand of hair out of her hair.  Natsumi looked over at her, and gave her a desperate look. The woman smiled and walked towards the three.

"Oh stop it. You old goat. She is not some animal. She is a person. I'm sorry. Louis can be strange sometimes. Come on in, I'll make us some food," the old woman, motioned for them to follow her inside the cottage. Siegfried smiled, and grabbed Natsumi hand, leading her into the doorway.  She quickly snatched it away; because that was the hand, he used to wipe his nose. 

"Vhat?" he said, softly. Natsumi shook her head, and pushed him through the doorway.  The old woman pulled out a pot of flour from a cupboard, and began to light the wood below a cauldron.  Natsumi and Siegfried just stood in front her staring.  The woman looked up at them, and smiled.

"Do not  be shy," she said, excitedly. "Make yourselves at home. I'll have Louis heat the bath for you both. Oh, by the way, I am Adelaide DeMatin, and you met Louis." Adelaide walked back outside and yelled Louis's name. Natsumi and Siegfried looked at the pot of flour, and licked their lips.  They imagined biscuits and cakes. Butter and fruit preserves smeared over the delicious bread that sat on the wooden counter.  Siegfried turned his eyes to Natsumi, and smiled.  He felt sorry, grabbed her face, and kissed her. She pulled away of course, as she was overwhelmed with his stench. 

"Yuck, Siegfried," she said, solemnly.  "I long for a bath. I'm so relieved." Siegfried gave her an annoyed look, and shrugged. 

"I tell you already, that it is not same as your time. I smell before and vomen love me," he said, glaring at her.  Natsumi felted a smiled form across her face.  She began laughing, holding her hand over her mouth. Siegfried gave her a confused looked, and pushed her slightly.  She stumbled back, but continued to laugh.  He smiled and pushed her again, playfully.  He moved her head to his underarm, as she tried to pull away.  She laughed, covering her nose, and fell to the ground.  Siegfried lay on top of her, trying to remove her hands from her face.  They quickly stood up, when they heard the door open again.  Adelaide walked in with a huge smile on her face.  She was carrying cloths, and a bottle of oil.

"Follow me, Louis is preparing the bath as we speak," said Adelaide, in a high mousey voice.  "You must tell me how you two got lost. When we saw you, we thought you were dead. We could not just let you sleep in your wagon."  Adelaide led the couple to the barn, which was near the back of the cottage.  Chickens ran past there legs as they made there way to the door. Inside the barn, was a big wooden basin. Iron pipes lead from the basin to the outside. Siegfried looked at the basin in wonder, as Natsumi gave a slight smile. 

"What's this?" asked Natsumi, looking at Adelaide.  She walked closer to the basin and peered over the top. The water boiled and the steam rose to her face. 

"Louis, there, is an inventor. He builds little contraptions, and things. He built this bath. What he does is…well…come…let me show you." Adelaide grabbed Natsumi's arm a led out of the back door of the barn. Siegfried followed quickly, exchanging glances with Natsumi.  Outside, Louis was standing beside a well, and he was pushing a pump so he could pump water into a large wooden barrel. From the barrel was an iron pipe, which pumped water into an iron steamer of some sorts. A fire roared under an iron basin, and that water was pumped into the basin inside the barn.  Natsumi looked at Siegfried, who was walking around the weird contraption in awe.  "The only trouble is that you have to pump the water in yourself. It's a lot of work, but Louis doesn't mind. All of our neighbors come and use it all of time. It's quite popular"  Siegfried walked over to the well and looked inside it.  Natsumi smiled to herself, and then at Adelaide. 

"This is great. I can't tell you how much we appreciate your kindness towards us," said Natsumi, graciously.  Adelaide only smiled, and nodded her head.  She gave Natsumi the cloths and the oil and opened the barn door for her.  Siegfried walked hastily after her, and nodded at Adelaide, as he walked through the door. Natsumi began to pull of her clothes and shoes, when the door shut.  Siegfried pulled off his vest and shirt and walked behind her. He slid his arms around her waist and bit her neck.  Natsumi flinched, pushing him away, and walking onto the wooden stairs to the basin.  She slowly put her foot in the water, and pulled it out quickly.  She looked at Siegfried and gritted her teeth. He smiled, pulling off his rompers and his boots.  She slowly stepped in, as the hot water, scorched her skin.  She waded in the water for a little and then sat down. Siegfried dropped into the water without any trouble and put his head underneath it.  He quickly pulled his head back up, splashing his water drenched hair around.  He gave Natsumi a funny grin, as he wiped the water from his eyes. 

"Why don't you people invent soap already," cried Natsumi, beating down on the water with her hands.  Siegfried smiled at her, and waded towards her.  He put his hands on her cheeks, and kissed her.  His moist tongue moved within her mouth, as he moved her legs onto his sides.  He moved her against the basin wall, and pushed inside her.  She shuddered, putting her arms around his neck.  They gazed at each other as Siegfried moved inside her, gently, slowly.  He caressed her cheek, and bit her lower lip, softly, pressing himself against her body.  She moved her lips against his, moaning quietly into his mouth.  He pushed her body against the wall of the basin and kissed her passionately.  He moved her body up and down against his shaft and moved his lips around her neck.  He moaned, smashing her against the basin again and again, as he pushed himself deeper and deeper inside her.  He kissed her, as if he had never kissed a woman before. Pulling her head to his, and devoured her lips.  She began to shake, and tightened her grasp around his neck. She let out a loud moan and threw her head back, as the pleasure exploded inside her.  Siegfried pressed her body against the basin hard, and released himself, rubbing his lips on her forehead. They held each other, breathing heavily, and kissing each other softly. Natsumi put her hand on Siegfried's head and pushed him away from her.  She smiled at him, and waded to the other side of the basin.  Holding her hand on her nose, she dunked her head into the water. She came back up and sneezed.  Siegfried stood in the same place, gazing at her.

Natsumi wiped the water from her eyes, and ran her hands through her wet hair.  "You know, I wonder if we will survive this journey. You and I. I just don't know if it will happen." Siegfried waded towards her, and hugged her.

"I'm sorry. I vill not be like that anymore. I vill listen to vhat you tell me. I'm sorry," he said, softly.  His embrace warmed, and Natsumi grinned. He was such a big baby when it came to her. He never wanted to make her unhappy. She had been the only woman that really understood him. He sighed, and put his hands on the top of her head.  Natsumi narrowed her eyes at him, and sighed. She was annoyed by this silly phase he was in now.  One day, while they were on the western border of France, he started singing at the top of his lungs.  German carols, and hymns were heard, from morning to night.  At first, Natsumi found this new exuberance in him, amusing, but after a couple of days, it got annoying.  Then when she got sick, he started talking to himself, and laughing at imaginary things.  Natsumi just sat and looked at him, in this amazed stupor. She had asked him, if he felt he was being released, but he told her something about cows and how they will rule the earth someday.  So, she dropped the subject.  She figured he was becoming a schizophrenic, for what reason, she didn't know. 

She looked up at him, and gave him a slight smile. She grabbed his hands and slowly took them down from her head, but he put them back up there again. He laughed, and gave her a wild grin.  She grabbed his hands again and threw them at his sides. "Siegfried, you are scaring me. You know that."  His grin slowly turned into a frown, and then he grabbed her arm. 

"I can't be happy. Vhy? Vhy von't you let me be happy? Can't I laugh? Can't I be silly?" he said, angrily. He eyes were almost burning, when he said this.  His voice seemed to rumble, with pain, and confusion. Natsumi looked at him amazed. He was becoming like her, one minute he was happy, silly and next he was angry.  She rolled her eyes, and pulled her arm out of his grasp.

"What you are doing is not happiness or silliness. It's different. I know the difference between being happy and being just plain crazy. I am sorry, Siegfried, but there are changes going on in your mind that I don't understand. I worry about you. There are some people who go through this change, and no one knows why.  I am afraid for you. I love you," she said, caressing his cheek.  Siegfried's green eyes glistened and tears strolled down his cheeks. He knew his mind was in chaos. He would not admit to her, that sometimes he didn't remember her name.  He yelled at her so she would tell him something to bring him out of that dark void.  Just like now, he wanted her to weep and cry. He wanted her to take the blame for their problems instead of him.  Natsumi wiped the tears from his eyes, and grinned at him. She turned around and climbed out of the basin and down the wooden steps.  She grabbed a cloth and wrapped it around her body.  She turned around to Siegfried, but she did not see him.  She walked to the basin and looked in.  He was underwater, his golden hair, flowing around him.  He jumped up, moving his wet blonde hair out of his face.  Natsumi closed her eyes, as the water splashed on her face.  She held out a cloth to Siegfried, with a smile on her face.  He grabbed it, and gave her a wicked grin. 

A tap at the barn door brought them out of their gaze. Natsumi turned towards the door, and wrapped the cloth tighter around her body. 

"Sorry to disturb you two. If you give me your clothing, I can wash and mend them for you. If you like," asked Adelaide, on the other side of the door. "Just leave them outside the door."

"Thank you. We'll do that," yelled Natsumi, smiling.  She turned around to Siegfried, who was walking down the wooden steps.  He ran the cloth over his body, and then over his hair.  "I personally think we should throw them away." She walked over to her pile of clothes, and picked them up. She had a large hole on the thigh of her pantaloons.  She had worn Siegfried's black tunic, which was torn at the bottom.  She looked over at him; he was scratching his head, looking in confusion at his worn clothes. 

"What do we wear?" he asked, throwing the clothes to the ground, sniffling. Before Natsumi could say anything, he tied the cloth around his waist, walked to the door of the barn, and opened it.  Natsumi's eyes widened as the door slammed behind him.  She ran to the door, cracking it just a little.

"Siegfried? Where are you going?" she whispered. She watched him walked around the cottage, and put his hand in the air. Natsumi smiled, he always had a way of reassuring her.  She stayed at the door, waiting for him to appear again.  He did, carrying their large sack of clothes over his shoulder.  His muscular body glistened under the autumn sun, and his green eyes lit up.  He smiled as he neared the door, brushing a wet strand of hair from his face.  He threw the sack of clothes on the barn floor and looked through it. He pulled out a pair of brown rompers, and a red tunic.  He stood up examining them, but they weren't dirty or worn. He quickly put on the tunic, and looked at Natsumi.  She grabbed the scented oil and began to rub it over her body.  Siegfried grabbed the jar of mint and red wine vinegar out of the sack.  He opened the jar, drank some, and began swishing it around in his mouth.  Natsumi walked over to the sack and found clean pantaloons and one of Siegfried's tunics.  Siegfried held his head back and began to gargle the mint mouthwash. Natsumi looked up at him and smiled.   She put her hand on his torso, and squeezed his stomach. He looked down quickly, as little bit of mint mouthwash ran down his chin.  He grinned, touching her hand.  Though she knew, their journey would be a long and arduous one, Natsumi knew she would soon was at peace with the fate that was before her.  She knew she could rely on her love, Siegfried.  She knew that one day she would have to leave him, but at that moment, she knew she would never love anyone as she did him.

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The night was a quiet one. A night he had not seen since he was a child.  The nightmares of his past have haunted him ever since he was released of the evil powers of Soul Edge. They slept in the guest bedroom of the DeMatin's. The bed was more comfortable than he could ask for. Natsumi went right to sleep, as soon as she rested her head on the pillow. Siegfried lay there staring at his sleeping beauty, thinking of the love he had for her. He closed his eyes, as his mind thought of better things this night. His mother, Margaret. He hadn't dreamt of her in so many years.  He dreamt of her soothing voice, and the way she use to caress his hair, when she put him to sleep.  He remembered the time when he was covered with soot from the chimney. She had always told him not to play in the chimney when it was not lit, but he never listened.  Then one day, he tried to climb up the chimney, but he fell and was covered in soot.  He remembered his mother's exact words. See, what did you tell you about playing in the chimney. She laughed and helped him wash the soot off his face.  A smiled spread across his face, and he opened his eyes.  Natsumi slept quietly, her lovely eyes closed, and her mouth in a frown. He put his finger on her cheek, and moved it around in circles.  He knew she hated that. He didn't know why he did it.  It just happened. She suddenly opened her eyes, and glared at him.  He smiled and kissed her forehead.  She moved her slender hand up to his face, and caressed his cheek.  Siegfried cupped her hand in his, and squeezed it.

"I love you," he said, softly, kissing her hand. "I always will, even vhen you leave me. I'll be there. In your heart."  Natsumi smiled, and mouthed the words "I love you".  She closed her eyes, and held Siegfried's hand by her cheek.

"Not sleepy?" she asked, softly, yawning.  She opened her eyes a little, and massaged his hand.  "When was the last time you slept in a bed?"  Siegfried pressed his lips together, and looked up at the ceiling.

"It has been long time. I believe it vas vhen I vas in asylum. I do not remember," he said, grinning.  Natsumi widened her eyes, and smiled.

"Beds are nice, huh?" she teased, quietly. She kissed his hand, and winked at him. Siegfried blushed and gave her a shy glance. 

"Yes, alright. It feels nice to sleep on one. It feels too nice, actually," he replied, touching her face.  "Tomorrow, let us spar, and then be on our vay, alright?" Natsumi nodded, and then laughed. "Yes?"

"I'm just thinking of how bad I'm gonna kicked your ass," she bragged, smiling. Siegfried raised an eyebrow, and put closed his hand around her throat. 

"Oh…is that so," he said, squeezing her neck, playfully.  Natsumi smiled, and pulled his arm from her neck.  "But I do believe you are better than me in combat."  Siegfried chuckled, and kissed her lips.  She only nodded her head, and kissed him back.

"Thank you for admitting that," she said, and they fell asleep in each other arms.

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"Vhy can't you just stand still!" Siegfried yelled, as Natsumi did a cartwheel, dodging one of his attacks. She laughed, as she swung her sword her near his torso.  Siegfried lunged at her, but Natsumi jumped out of the way by doing another cartwheel.  "AHHHHHHH! STOP IT!"  Natsumi narrowed her eyes at her lover, and laughed. 

"What? I thought we were sparing, Sieg," she joked, jumping around.  Siegfried dropped his sword to the ground and glared at her. He wiped the sweat from his forehead, and sniffed.

"Yes, ve are, but I can not spar vhen you are jumping around the place!" he cried, moving a strand of hair from his face.

"Well, if you were a good warrior, you could defeat me," she teased, walking up to him. "Even if I was jumping around. Now come on. Let's do this!"

"NO! I vill not run after you. Ve are sparring. You have to stay on the ground, and stand still. That is vhat real fighter do!" He shook his head, and folded his arms across his chest.

"OK! Fine! I'll stand still, but let's get this going, alright!" she yelled, turning around and walked back to her place. Siegfried picked up Requiem, and held it at his side.  Natsumi held her sword high, and thrust it outwards.  She smiled at Siegfried, but his face remained stern. He rolled his eyes, and ran towards her. Natsumi held her sword up, as Siegfried swung his sword at her. She flew back and landed on the ground.  Before she realized what happened, Siegfried was running after her, his Zweihander over his head.  She rolled to the side, as it came crashing to the ground. She quickly jumped up, and swung her sword to the left and right, forcing him to back away.  She held her sword behind her back, and did several high kicks to his head. He blocked them all, grabbed her leg, and twisted her around. Natsumi kicked him in the stomach with her other leg, and pulled her leg from his grasp. 

Siegfried fell to the ground, dropping his sword at his side.  He lay there for a moment with his eyes closed.  Natsumi walked over to him, and looked down at his face. A smile formed on her face, as she bent to pull him up.  He opened his eyes, suddenly, grabbed her arm, and flipped her over him.

"Cheater!" she yelled, jumped up and swung her sword at his face. Siegfried laughed, stepping back, as the sword swung an inch from his nose. Natsumi smiled, and threw her sword to the ground. "You want to fight like we did, when we first met? Hand to hand combat, no weapons!"  Siegfried nodded casually, and thrust his arms in the air, rushing towards her. Natsumi blocked his first attack, crossing her arms, and thrusting them forward.  She swung her fist to his head, and connected with his cheek. Siegfried returned the blow, slamming his fists into her arm. They did a series of punches and kicks, blocking each other's advances. Natsumi did a windmill kick, as Siegfried blocked it, and followed her. Siegfried did a forceful jump kick, flipped over and landed on his feet. Natsumi flew to the ground, jumped back up, and stood in her attack stance.  She ran after him and bent over so she could pick him up and throw him.  Siegfried looked down at her, as she struggled to lift him up.  He raised an eyebrow, as she looked at him, with a desperate grin.

"Vhat are you doing?" he said, grinning, and laughing a little.  She looked up at him, sighed, and stood up. Siegfried shook his head, chuckling, as Natsumi wiped the sweat from her brow.

"Geez…Siegfried, how much do you weigh?" she asked, breathing heavily. Siegfried smiled, and shrugged his shoulders.

"Hmm…vell…I gained pounds, but I don't know how much," he said, throwing his arm around her shoulders. "But you looked so pretty trying to pick me up." Natsumi shook her head, and smiled. 

"Stop making FUN of me," she teased, pushing him away. "Let's go. We have a battle to win."

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Siegfried threw the sack of clothing into the wagon, and smiled at the elderly couple that had been so kind to them. He walked around to the front of the wagon, and pulled up onto it.  Natsumi sat on the wagon, nodded her head, and smiled. She was going to miss them, and their comfortable bed. Adelaide mended all their clothes, and gave them a basket full of food. 

"Oh, I'll miss you two. Have a safe journey. Come back and visit us anytime," said Adelaide, waving her hand in the air. Louis stood still, with a slight grin on his face. He held his hand up steadily, and his eyes sparkled. Siegfried slapped the reigns against the horse, and they quickly trotted off. "Do not get lost again! Au revoir!" Natsumi turned around and waved at them as they rounded a corner.  She looked at back at the trees that lined their park, and turned back around.  She glanced at Siegfried, who had a steady smile on his face.  Her eyes lit up with excitement, as she hoped he was doing well, internally.

"How long till we are in Spain?" she asked, laying her hand on his shoulder.  Siegfried looked at her, and sniffed.

"Hmm…I do not know. Ve need to get to Montpellier, then on to Perpignan, then on into Spain. We must go to Barcelona, and from there Valencia. It vill be a long ride. Do not worry," he said, giving her a reassuring smile.

"Have you ever been to Spain?" she asked, squeezing his shoulder.  He nodded, slapping the reigns against the horse.

"Yes, as myself, and as the monster. I remember that I vas being followed by varriors from around the vorld. There vas not one day that I vas not in battle. I fled to Spain, killing, as I made my way to Valencia. All my enemies followed me there. A man, older than myself, tried to befriend me, as ve vere in battle," he explained, as a frown formed on his face. "I ignored his pleas, but then he said that he could help me. I remember realizing that he said this, and stopped in my tracks. I listened to him, and agreed not to harm him."

"Why? What did he tell you?" she asked, her attention focused on this conversation.

"We fled to Germany, to my Ostrheinsburg. He promised to help me, to release me from the evil that was Soul Edge, but he betrayed me. He promised to try and destroy it, but I suppose he left because I could not control myself. But he made a promise to me. I think he vanted Soul Edge for himself. I do not know. I vish I knew. I do not vant to remember vhat happened vhen I killed innocent people. I remember calling his name, over and over again, but he did not come."  Siegfried lowered his eyes, and then looked at Natsumi, only for a moment.

"Did you love him?" she asked, caressing his cheek with her nose. Siegfried shrugged, and shook his head. "Do you remember his name?" Siegfried lifted his head to look at the road, and pressed his lips together.

"No…I do not."

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Montpellier, France – 16th century

He splashed the water onto his face, and looked into the mirror. He rubbed his hands over his eyes, as he shook his head to wake himself up. His reflection looked back at him, and the look on his face threatened to drive him insane with guilt.  He gritted his teeth, and walked back to the bed.  He pulled on his boots, and carefully pulled them on. Amy was constantly a memory in the back of his mind. He did not want to let her down; he did not want her to live in a world where people of power dictated how a country should be ruled. He closed his eyes, with anger, but then he thought of him.  His mind darted back to those horrible eyes, the eyes that seemed to hypnotize him. He did the right thing; he assured himself, everyday. His heart started to beat fast; he got up from the bed, and looked out of the window.  The streets were crowded with people walking to and fro from the market down the street.  He felt his stomach growl, turned around, and grabbed his cloak from the chair by the door.  He took his sword from the table, and strapped it on his side.  He would not succumb to the guilt that overwhelmed his heart.  He shut the door to his room, and walked confidently down the hall. I shall conquer this, I shall. He repeated those words in his mind, every minute of the day.

"Bonjour, Monsieur Sorel. How are you today? It is a beautiful day, is it not?" said the plump young maiden behind the inn's front desk, as he walked down the steps.  She had red hair, pinned up into a bun, freckles, and a button nose.  He would give her that, the nose. He found her amusing, and obliged her. He nodded his head, and bowed slightly.

"Yes it is, Mademoiselle, and how are you?" he asked, looking at the inn's main door.

"Very well, monsieur, merci. Would you like to have a drink with me later on in the day?" she asked, trying her best to look sensuous for the handsome man. His eyes widened, and he shook his head

"I am sorry, Mademoiselle. I…I…I will be…uhh…excuse me," he said, bowing to her, quickly walking to the inn door, and stepping out. He sighed as he heard the door shut, and pulled his cloak's hood over his head.  He walked in the direction of his favorite tavern in Montpellier, Luc's Tavern. A friend of his from Rouen owned it and helped him whenever he needed a shoulder to lean on.  As he neared the tavern, he pulled his hood down from his head, and walked in.  He got a cheer from the men sitting at the bar, and smiled.

"Raphael, you handsome devil, you. What did you do, stay out with Angelique last night?" said Luc, holding a goblet of ale in the air.  He had jet-black hair, grey eyes, and wore a mustache.

"Oh, no, mon ami, you know I detest her," he replied, narrowing his eyes. "Where is the food? I am famished." Luc set the goblet of ale in front of Raphael and walked into the back room. 

"Do not worry, my friend. I will fill that belly of yours," yelled Luc from the back room. "How long to you plan on staying in Montpellier?" Raphael looked up from his gaze on the goblet, and shook his head.

"Oh…uhh…I do not know. I…umm…I do not know," he yelled, grabbed the goblet, and took a sip.  He did not like to drink that much.  He found it vulgar and ungentlemanly like.

"Why are you staying in that rats nest of an inn, when you could go back to your mansion?" asked Luc, walking out of the back room carrying a tray of bread and cheese. He put the tray in front of Raphael, and pulled a stool over to sit in front of him.

"I needed to think," he said, simply. He looked up at Luc, and grabbed a piece of bread and cheese.

"Think? Oh la la. Think about what, mon ami," said Luc, smiling at his friend. 

"Ohh…things," he said, stuffing the bread and cheese into his mouth. Luc raised an eyebrow, and shook his head. "What?"

"I know you that you are estranged from your family and you detest the nobles, but what is it that you truly want? Do you know want to find love, and marry a beautiful girl? Do you want to make a comfortable home for Amy? You must tell me one day, my friend. I must know what Raphael Sorel wants out of this life." Luc smiled, and stood up from the barstool. "If you ever need me, I'm always here." He walked to the end of the bar, and began to gather goblets from his customers.  Raphael chewed on his food, and watched his friend.  He moved his eyes to the counter, and kept them there, while he ate the rest of the bread and cheese. Luc would always be there for him. He knew that, but he did not like to rely on people.  Only Amy brought him the happiness he desired, but his heart called for more.  He did not know where to find it.  He wondered aimlessly around France, trying to find it. He went back to Germany to find it, but it was not there.  I cannot keep wondering like this. It had to be done. There was nothing I could do. He…He…deserved it. It was not my fault.

He stood up from the stool, and wiped his mouth with his hand. "Merci," he yelled, in the direction of Luc, and walked out of the tavern's doors.  He pulled his hood over his head, and walked towards the Cathedral St. Pierre. He kept his eyes to the ground, not wanting to be noticed by anyone.  He'd walked to the Cathedral, to stand near one of the facades, and look at the people who came and left the city. He searched the faces of those who resembled him. He waited and preyed that one day, he would come to Montpellier.

~~~~~~~~~~

The city gates of Montpellier were bustling with travelers, who carried sacks and pulled wagons on the dirt road. Two armor-clad knights stood on opposite sides of the gate, as if they were statues.  The horse pulled the wagon under the arch of the gate as gazed at the large square that surrounded Cathedral St. Pierre.  Natsumi gazed at the front façade of the cathedral, and held her head up to the bell tower.  The bell chimed, letting out a soft sound that made the pigeons fly away to the sky.  Siegfried smiled at her, and nodded his head. A statue of St. Pierre stood in the middle of the square, exuding almost a holy aura.  The stone structure glistened under the sun, and made Natsumi feel she was in heaven at that moment.  Natsumi looked down at one of the smaller facades near the door of the cathedral, and saw a hooded figure.  She could not see his face, but he seemed to be looking at her.  She narrowed her eyes, as the figure shifted his legs.  Siegfried stopped the wagon, and jumped off walking around to her side.  Natsumi watched the figure's head moved in her beloved's direction.  

"I vill take the horse and vagon to the stable. You can stay here and look around if you vant," said Siegfried, holding his arms out to her.  Natsumi jumped into his arms, and kissed him on the cheek.

"No, I'll come with you," she replied, taking his hand in hers.  He only nodded his head, and caressed the head of the horse.  Natsumi let go up of his hand and went to the back of wagon to find his cloak.  The air was getting chillier, even though the sun still shined beautifully.  Siegfried looked over the horse's head and gazed at the cathedral.  He looked at its gothic style architecture and smiled to himself.  He walked around the horse and walked in the direction of the church. "Siegfried, where are you going?" Natsumi yelled, running to his side. 

"Just need to pray. Stay by the vagon. I vill be back," he said, smiling at her.  Natsumi turned around, and walked back to the wagon. She turned back around, and watched her lover walked across the large square to the steps of St. Pierre. The hooded figure was nowhere to be seen. Siegfried slowly walked up the steps to the doors, and quietly pushed them open.  A dusty scent hit his nose, and he sneezed.  He walked slowly down the aisle and sat on a pew.  He held his head down, and folded his hands. 

Dear God, free me from this cage I have put myself in, and make me strong.  I do not vant to be like this forever. I vant to be able to remember her name. I vant to be able to make sense to her.  I love her. I ask you to free me from these demons, and give me the strength to be good. Forgive me for killing, forgive me for fighting. Give me the strength to rid the world of Soul Edge. Bless my mother, my father in heaven, and Natsumi. Amen.

Siegfried lifted his head to the statue of Mary on the altar.  He signed himself, stood up, and walked up to the altar.  He gazed up at the statue, and touched it with two fingers.  He signed himself again, and kneeled down below the altar.  The sound of footsteps made him look up and turn around.  He saw the cloaked figure sitting on one of the pews.  Siegfried narrowed his eyes to get a good look at his face, but it was shrouded in darkness.  He quickly stood up, and walked down the aisle to the door.  He turned back to looked at the figure, and widened his eyes, when he saw the figure had turned to look at him.  Siegfried thought he was dreaming, and hoped it wasn't death come to collect his soul.

"Who are you? Vhat do you vant?" he cried, walking closer to the figure.  The cloaked figure stood up, and walked up to Siegfried. "If you do not tell me who you are I vill…"

"There is no need to lose your temper, Schtauffen. I can see you have not changed," said the mysterious man.  He pulled his hood from his head, and gazed at Siegfried.  Siegfried's eyes widened and he opened his mouth in shock. He searched the stranger's face, trying to remember where he saw it before. "I can see you do not remember me. Well…I expected you to look different, but how could I forget that infamous scowl."

"Who are you?" said Siegfried, angrily. "Tell me who you are now!" The stranger grabbed Siegfried's arm and pulled him to a long hallway on the side of the chapel.  Siegfried yanked his arm away, and stood back from the stranger.

"I am Raphael Sorel. Do you not remember me? I tried to help you when you were that…that…monster, but you could not control yourself.  I had to fight you everyday. I could not take it anymore so I fled." Raphael walked closer to Siegfried, holding his hand out to touch Siegfried's face. Siegfried narrowed his eyes, when he realized what he was trying to do.  Suddenly it all came back to him, and he remembered who he was.  The man who betrayed him, and promised to free him from the clutches of Soul Edge.

"Do not touch me! You coward! You left me! You promised!" cried Siegfried, stepping back. Raphael shook his head, and touched Siegfried's face.

"No, you do not understand," Raphael pleaded, as he felt his hand being pushed off. "You were insane, you would not…"

"No! You swine. I vanted to be rid of it. I needed to be saved. You left. I called you and you never came. They almost killed me, because they knew I vould kill again. But you…I told you, and you promised. Do not touch me!" Siegfried screamed, turned around, and ran down the hall.  Raphael followed, and grabbed his arm. He pleaded with Siegfried to listen to him, but Siegfried pushed him to the ground. He jumped on top of Raphael, and began punching him in the face.  Raphael tried to shield himself, but Siegfried was much too strong.  He grabbed one of Siegfried's arms, and threw him over to the side.  Siegfried quickly pulled himself up on his knees and began pummeling Raphael once more. "Siegfried!" A voice yelled from down the hall.  Raphael closed his eyes, and kept his arms around his head.  He felt his attacker being pulled away, and quickly opened his eyes.  A brown-skinned girl held Siegfried in her arms, and she was struggling to calm him down. 

"Siegfried, stop. STOP! Calm down!" yelled the girl, standing in front of Siegfried, as he glared at Raphael.  Siegfried let his arms fall to his sides. He sank down against the wall and sat on the floor, breathing heavily. "It's alright. What happened?" The girl caressed his face, and then turned around to face Raphael. "Could you tell me what happened?" Raphael wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth, and stood up.  His expression was vague, but he had already forgiven Siegfried for what had happened. He supposed he deserved every hit, and it hurt him deeply. 

"Mademoiselle, I…I…uhh…Monsieur Schtauffen is an old acquaintance of mine.  I said something that angered him, and…umm…here we are. I am sorry," said Raphael, nervously.

"What did you say?" she asked, taking Siegfried hand in hers. Raphael gazed at the girl, and then shook his head.

"It is not important," he said, solemnly.

"If it is not important, then why are you bleeding?" She narrowed her eyes at the Frenchman then looked back at Siegfried.  He was looking at his hand, and seemed to be lost in a daze. The girl caressed his arm, and stood up. She pulled the German off the ground, and straightened his clothes.  Raphael looked on, and felt his mouth turn into a frown.  He was curious about what had happened to Siegfried after he left. Who had brought his soul out of the grasp of Soul Edge? Who was this mysterious woman caressing his face, and whispering soft comforting words.  Raphael turned and pulled his hood over his head.  "Wait!" Raphael turned to face the girl, pulling his hood back down. "I will apologize for Siegfried, because he will not.  I'm sorry, he didn't mean it." Raphael nodded his head, and moved his eyes to Siegfried. The green-eyed man narrowed his eyes at the Frenchman, and looked away.  Raphael sighed and walked down the hall. He felt a sting of excitement run through his spine as he walked out of the cathedral.  He had finally found him, and he would make up what he did wrong. He just hoped the Knights were not following them.

~~~~~~~~~~

Siegfried laid a gold dukat on the front desk of the inn. The plump, buttoned nosed Angelique gave him a nervous grin, and slowly moved her hand to take the dukat.  Siegfried gave her a confused look, and then smiled exhaustedly.  He turned his attention to Natsumi, and sighed. She was standing by the fireplace, staring at the red flames.  She had been staring so long that the flames morphed into images and shapes.  She blinked lazily, and ran her hand through her hair.  Siegfried walked over to her and took her hand.  She looked over at him sadly, and sniffled.  Her eyes turned back to the flames, as if they were her only friends.

"Who was that man? Why did you attack him?" Her voice seemed distant but still audible. Siegfried pressed his lips together and ran a hand through his long hair. 

"He is no one.  Do not worry about it," he said, as he turned around, and walked towards the staircase.  He walked quickly, knowing that she would follow and ask him again.  He grabbed their belongings by the front desk, and walked up the stairs. Her footsteps echoed behind him, and seemed to be stones that were thrown to the ground. 

"Don't walk away from me, Siegfried. Who was that man?" she insisted, giving him a cold stare.  He took out the key from his pocket and unlocked the door to their room.  "Siegfried!" Natsumi stormed into the room, and slammed the door behind them. "Tell me now!"

He slammed their things to the ground, and sat on the bed. "No! I do not vant to talk about it!"

"You will tell me. You will not keep secrets from me! I have been there for you. I have been understanding. Now you must do right by me, and tell me what is going on with you and that man!" Natsumi walked over to him, and kneeled down in front of him. She grabbed his hands, and squeezed them, moving her face to his. "Just tell me. What is his name?" Siegfried slowly moved his eyes to meet hers, and rolled them.

"He is the man who promised to help me. His name is Raphael Sorel. I did not remember him at first, but then it all came back to me."

"Why did you attack him? What did he say to you?" she asked, sitting on the bed next to him.  Siegfried rubbed his face with his hands, and laid back on the bed. 

"I got angry. That is all. He vas trying to explain himself, but I could not forget vhat he promised. He kept touching my face, and my arms. I got angry." Natsumi laid next to him, and put her hand on his leg.  Siegfried sighed and covered her hand with his. "As I began hitting him, I felt anger flee from my body. I do not regret vhat I did. Vhen you make a promise you keep it, right?"

"Yeah," she said, slowly.  "Does he have…uhh…feelings for you?" Natsumi turned her head too look at him, and waited for his reaction.

"I do not know. Vhy do you ask that?" he asked, turning his head towards her.

"I don't know. He just seemed like he was in love with you. Like what you did, he deserved it or something like that. Did you love him before he left you?" Natsumi's eyes looked on with curiosity, as she turned her body to face him. He let his eyes wonder, and brushed a strand of hair from his face.

"I must have, or I vould not have felt so passionately about beating him to a bloody pulp. I suppose I loved him because no one loved me. They never looked closer to see if I had a soul or a heart."

"He did?" Siegfried nodded, and squeezed her hand. "I think you should go talk to him, and let him explain himself.  So you can have some peace of mind. It is best to do this so you will know for sure why he left you."

"I don't care anymore," he replied, turning his back to her. "I have you. I do not need him."  Natusmi smiled to herself and stood up from the bed. 

"I didn't say that. I just said go talk to him. We need all the allies we can get on this quest," she argued, walking to the table near the door.  "Because we will have many enemies, human and non-human alike." Natsumi picked up the lit candle from the table and brought it to the nightstand near the bed. "Siegfried, are you hungry?" She looked over at the bed, to see Siegfried fast asleep. She smiled to herself, unlaced his boots, and pulled them off his feet.  A smile formed on her mouth, when he began to snore.  She lay next to him on the bed, and kicked off her tennis shoes.  She smelled the burning scent from the candle as she blew it out.  Her knight shifted, as she slowly fell asleep.

~~~~~~~~~~

Siegfried stretched his arms and looked over at his Natsumi.  She lay peacefully beside him, her hair covering her face.  He quietly stood up from the bed, and looked back at her, hoping she did not awake.  He picked up his boots and walked over to the chair by the window to put them on.  He glanced out at the sunshine filled window, and looked up at the sky.  He gazed at the clouds as they covered the sky like a blanket. The room faded in and out darkness as the clouds covered the sun.  Siegfried stood up from the chair and looked out of the window.  He looked at the people walk back and forth from down the street. He closed his eyes when he smelled the scent of freshly baked bread.  He walked over to the basin and splashed the water onto his face. His thoughts seemed to fade back to what Natsumi told him last night. I cannot see him again, if I do, then I do not know if I vill control myself.  His mind went back to the time when he lay on his back in his room at Ostrheinsburg. He could never sleep, and would lay on the old rotting bed with his eyes to the ceiling. He would lay there trying to fight the evil that Soul Edge had brewing in him. He would try to remember the names of the people he loved, his mother, and father. His voice echoed off the crumbling walls of the castle as he yelled his name.  For days, he laid there calling his name. Raphael! Raphael, where are you? Raphael, come to me. Help me!  Do not leave me!   His eyes shot to their sack on the floor, as he walked over to it and looked for his mint mouthwash.  He stared at himself in the mirror as he gargled the mouthwash and discarded it into a spittoon.  He walked to the sack and pulled out his pouch of dukats.  He quietly walked to the door and opened it.  He looked at the sleeping Natsumi, as he shut the door.

A door slammed down the hall, and Siegfried turned around, when it startled him. Raphael stood by the door, his blue eyes widened.  Siegfried looked at the stern eyed man, and lowered his head.  How ironic? He thought to himself, and lifted up his head.  Raphael began to walk closer, his eyes never leaving the German's face. He stopped in front of Siegfried and looked at his right arm. He could only remember that horrific claw that devoured a now smooth hand.  Raphael reached out to touch it and held it in his hand.  He examined it as if it was not real, and then let it fall back to its owner's side. 

"It is hard for me to imagine you this way.  I feel ashamed knowing what I did to you. I am sorry Siegfried. Please accept my apology," he said, lowering his eyes.  Siegfried moved his hand to the Frenchman's shoulder, and squeezed it.

"I accept your apology, and you must forgive me for yesterday. My anger, yet again, got the best of me," said Siegfried, a slight smile forming across his face.

"I have already forgiven you. I deserved as much," replied Raphael, smiling. "Where are you going? I can show where to buy food, if you like?"

"Oh…uhh…vhy not. I vould probably get lost in a place like this anyvay." Siegfried nodded his head, graciously, and turned towards the stairs. The two warriors made their way to the door, as Angelique smiled flirtatiously at them. Raphael rolled his eyes as he opened the door, and walked out.  "Friend of yours?" asked Siegfried, jokingly. 

"Ah," cried Raphael, shaking his head violently. "Don't ask."  Raphael glanced at Siegfried and smiled.  He was overwhelmed with excitement, because he could not believe he was by his side.  He let out a quiet chuckle, and pointed a finger down towards Luc's Tavern.  "Luc's Tavern, a friend of mine owns it. He is a bit of a stickler, but you will like him.  He will provide you with anything you need. Let's go."  Raphael grabbed Siegfried's arm and led him into the doors of the tavern.  Luc stood leaning over the counter arguing with a man, shaking his fists in the air.  He looked towards the door, smiled, and motioned for Raphael to come over.

"I'll let you off this time, but if you don't pay up next time. You will never come into this place again! Now, get out of my sight!" Raphael grinned when he overheard the conversation. He shook his head at Luc, and ran a hand through his blond hair.

"Luc, my friend. You have to be a little more direct with you customers if you want to make any money in this place," he said, slamming his hand down on the counter.

"Well you know me, cheri. I have always been a softy when it comes to my customers. Especially with you," said Luc, rubbing his hand on Raphael's cheek. He looked over at the handsome blonde who sat next to his dear friend. "Who is this? Another one of your…"

"Oh no, not Monsieur Schtauffen! And be careful with what you say around him, or I wont be responsible for what happens," Raphael joked, looking at Siegfried. Siegfried only grinned, running his hand through his long hair.  "We need bread and cheese, and…uhh…wine, maybe. Is that what you drink, Schtuaffen? I detest alcohol, but sometimes I can tolerate it."

"Vine, yes, but my…my…companion does not. She loves milk, drinks it all the time," Siegfried replied, scratching the back of his ear.  Raphael looked at him with a frown, and nodded his head. 

"Bread, cheese, and milk, coming right up.  I will be back in a minute," said, Luc, smiling. Raphael looked over at Luc, and slammed his fist on the bar.

"A lot, this time. I have to share it, and I don't really want to," yelled Raphael, smiling at Siegfried.  Siegfried sighed and shook his head.  "Oh…am I annoying you?"

"Yes, you are," Siegfried replied, raising one eyebrow.  "I forgotten vhat a nuisance you are. Though, I do not remember much."

"Moi, a nuisance. I have not forgotten anything about you, my friend." Raphael moved closer to Siegfried, and whispered. "I remember trying to survive your frequent attacks in that wretched fortress of a castle.  I remember having to bolt my door shut so you would not kill me in my sleep.  I remember hearing my name being called every minute of the day.  Your brooding, monstrous voice eating at my sanity.  I made a promise, yes, but I could not risk my own life for it.  I left you, yes, but you would have done the same thing."

"No!" whispered Siegfried. "I vould have never left you. I vould have helped you, and try to free you from the sword if it possessed you!"

"But you did not see! You could not see yourself as that…that monster.  You were like a demon.  I had to…I had to defend myself everyday. One minute you would promise not to harm me. The next minute, you were trying to take my head off my shoulders." Raphael slid his smooth hand across the counter, grabbed Siegfried's arm and pulled him closer. "Can you not see the other side?  You were a lunatic.  I stayed with you as long as I could, but…"

"But you did not destroy it.  I needed you to destroy it.  To free me. All those years, deep inside, I was crying for help. The sword would not let me do it. Vhen you left, I felt despair as I had never felt before. I thought then, that the sword vould have me forever. I trusted in you to free me, because I could not do it myself." Siegfried's hair covered his face, as he lowered his head in sorrow. Raphael gazed at him, and realized that he had done Siegfried a great injustice.  He slowly moved his hand down the man's arm, and touched his hand. 

"I promise, at this moment, that I will never leave you.  I will follow you to the ends of the earth, and help you destroy Soul Edge for good."

~~~~~~~~~~

Siegfried poked his head into the room to see if Natsumi was still asleep.  She still lay in bed, her arms and legs sprawled out over the bed.  Siegfried quietly walked over to the bed and laid some bread and cheese on nightstand.  Raphael followed him and handed him a goblet. Siegfried took the pitcher of milk, poured the milk into the goblet, and set it on the nightstand.  He heard the floorboards creak and looked over at Raphael.  He rolled his eyes as they quietly walked out of the room. 

"Does she sleep like this all the time?" asked Raphael, running a hand through his hair.  Siegfried smiled, and shook his head

"No, I guess she was especially tired last night. She loves to sleep in beds. She's a lovely girl, I owe her a lot," said Siegfried, as he followed Raphael to his room. 

"Lucky girl," replied Raphael, unlocking his door, and pushing the it open.  He set the pitcher of milk and the goblets on the table near the window.  "Well…I suppose we can eat on the floor." He sat on the floor and crossed his legs.  Siegfried followed laying the tray of bread and cheese in front of him.  Raphael kept his eyes on the German and sighed resting his head on his hand.  Siegfried looked at him, and scratched his head.

"Vhat?" he asked, smiling, nervously. "Vhy do you look at me in that vay?" Raphael lifted his head and widened his eyes.  He took at piece of bread and cheese, and held it in his hands.

"So much has happened since I left you.  I hate myself. I really do.  Why could it have not been me?  I envy her, and I envy those who released from the sword's power," said Raphael, lowering his head to the ground.  Siegfried stared at him, and tried to figure out what he would say.

"I…uhh…vhat are you trying to say to me? You vant me to become that demon again?" he asked, glaring at the Frenchman. Raphael looked up from the ground and narrowed his eyes.

"No.  I…I…oh never mind. It was stupid of…" said Raphael, shaking his head.

"Tell me. Vhat do you mean?" said Siegfried, moving a lock of hair from his face. Raphael gazed at him, pushed the tray from between them, and moved closer to Siegfried.  He grabbed Siegfried's right hand, and massaged it with his fingers. 

"I should have stayed with you. I want to be the one you owe. I wanted to be the one who rescued you.  I want to be the one you love.  The one you quietly get breakfast for in the morning.  I want to be the one who can touch this hand, and not remember the grotesque claw it used to be.  I want to be the one to make you happy, and make you smile." Raphael squeezed Siegfried hand, as he said those words.  He put Siegfried's hand up to his face, and moved it across his cheek.  Siegfried could only look on; he did not know what to do.  "Say something.  I must hear your voice, cheri. It is so different from what I use to hear."  Raphael climbed to his knees, and pulled Siegfried into his arms.  Siegfried's eyes looked widened in shock, as Raphael squeezed him, gently. 

"Let me go," he said, softly, putting his hands against Raphael's shoulders. "Let me go." Siegfried began to hear Raphael's sobs in his ear.  He began to squeeze Siegfried tighter and tighter.  "Let me go! You are crazy!" Siegfried managed to push Raphael off him, and he stood up quickly.  Raphael's tears stained his cheeks, as he reached out for Siegfried.  Siegfried back away and slowly made his way to the door. 

"Do not go. Please. I am sorry. No. Stay, please! Mon cheri. I will die if you leave, please," cried Raphael, holding his arm out to Siegfried.  Siegfried gazed at Raphael's shaking limb, and lowered his eyes.  He was dumbfounded; he did not know Raphael thought of him in this way.  Raphael was obsessed, and that made him curious. He had someone who loved him, but no one who was obsessed with him. It made him shuddered when he thought of the word, obsession. He slowly walked to Raphael and grabbed his hand.  Raphael stood up and wiped the tears from his eyes.  He moved closer to Siegfried and buried his head on his shoulder.  His arms wrapped around Siegfried, as he sighed deeply.  Siegfried stood with his hands at his sides looking at the pattern of the wallpaper on the wall.  He wrapped his arms around Raphael, and breathed in the scent of his hair.  Siegfried kept his eyes on the wall, as Raphael whispered muffled words. "I will not leave you again.  I will protect you. Never tear yourself from me."

~~~~~~~~~~

Natsumi sat up from the bed, and looked around frantically.  She blinked her eyes slowly, as she ran a hand over her face.  She looked over at the nightstand and saw the bread, cheese, and a goblet. She moved her legs slowly off the bed, and grabbed the food.  She looked in the goblet and smiled when she noticed it was milk.  She looked up at the door, when she heard the sound of the key in the keyhole.  Siegfried poked his head in, and smiled when he saw that she was awake.  Raphael walked in behind him, and smiled nervously at the lovely girl.  Natsumi narrowed her eyes, and looked at Siegfried.  He looked back at Raphael, who followed closely behind him.

"Guten morgen," he said, as he sat next to her, and kissed her cheek. "You sleep vell?" Natsumi kept her eyes on Raphael, as he stood near Siegfried.

"Yes," she said, slowly, looking back at her food. "How was your morning? I see you took my advice."

"Vell…yes we got food for you. He helped me find a place, or you know I vould have been lost," he said, smiling, looking up at Raphael.

"Great. Do you know of a place that I can buy battle armor?" she asked, looking up at Raphael.  He broke his gaze from the window and looked at her.

"Yes, I can tell you where to get it for a small price?" Raphael smiled, and ran a finger over his eyebrow.  Siegfried moved closer to her, and laid his chin on her shoulder.

"Do not worry, Natsumi. Raphael is on our side. He vants to join us on our journey, and help us destroy Soul Edge," said Siegfried, softly. He knew what she was thinking.  She did not trust Raphael, and would be suspicious until he proved himself.  Her eyes searched Siegfried's face, and she kissed him on the lips.  Raphael looked away, and walked over to the window.  "I love you."  Siegfried hugged her, and whispered in her ear.  Raphael looked over at them, and narrowed his eyes.  Siegfried glanced at him from Natsumi's shoulder and smiled.  "Finish up my love, and then ve vill go see about this armor." He stood up from the bed, and pulled Natsumi to her feet.

"You have to go out," she said, looking at Raphael. "I have to change."  Raphael walked to the door and opened it. Siegfried followed him, and waved back at Natsumi when he shut the door.  Natsumi shook her head, and grudgingly looked though their sack.  She pulled out a pair of pantaloons and one of Siegfried's tunics and threw them on the bed. 

Raphael stood in front of Siegfried with his hands next to his head against the wall.  Siegfried glared at him, and pushed him out of his way. 

"I want you to know that I am jealous of her. I will not act myself when you are touching her, when it should be me.  No," Raphael said simply, and ran a nervous hand through his hair. 

"Vhat are you talking about? I love her. I...I do not love you. Please stop, this it is not right, and you know it," Siegfried whispered, as he paced back and forth outside the room.

Raphael stood in front of him and grabbed his face.  Siegfried looked at him with shock, and tried to take his hand off his face.  "I love you, but I suppose that means nothing to you either." Raphael gazed into Siegfried's eyes, and pushed him away.  Siegfried closed his eyes, and rubbed his hand across his cheek. Raphael walked down the hall to his room, and slammed the door behind him. Siegfried looked down at the empty hall, and lowered his head.  He quickly lifted his head, when Natsumi opened the door. She looked around, and then looked at Siegfried.

"Where's your friend?" she asked, shutting the door.  Siegfried pulled the key out of his pouch and locked the door.

"He is not coming," he said, pulling her towards the stairs. Siegfried looked behind him, when he heard the sound of footsteps. He grabbed Natsumi's hand and ran out of the inn, and down the street. 

"Siegfried? What the hell are you doing? Stop!" she yelled, yanking her hand out of his hand. Siegfried looked around her, and saw Raphael walking towards them.  Siegfried sighed, shrugged his shoulders, and walked towardd him. Raphael glared at him, and shook his head, when Siegfried spoke to him. Natsumi raised an eyebrow, and walked behind Siegfried.

"Please, do not do this. For me, please. Here she comes. Stop it," Siegfried insisted to Raphael, before Natsumi caught up to him.

"So he's coming now. What's going on? What's the matter?" Natsumi glared at Raphael then looked at Siegfried. Siegfried lowered his head, and balled up his fists. Raphael ran his hand through his hair and grabbed Siegfried hand. Siegfried yanked his hand away, and pushed him away. Raphael was driving him mad, and he had to get away from him.  He punched him in the face, and pulled Natsumi down the street.

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Siegfried looked out window at the moon, as Natsumi strapped on the battle armor she purchased.  She struggled to put on her breastplate and then looked over a Siegfried.

"Siegfried. Siegfried!? SIEGFRIED!" she yelled, letting the breastplate drop to the floor. Siegfried jumped, and looked at her. "Can you help me, please?"  Siegfried smiled nervously and picked up the breastplate from the floor.

"I am sorry. I think I have a head cold," he said, strapping the breastplate to her sides.  He picked up her mask from the bed and pulled it over her head.  She turned around in circles, and held her arms out. 

"Well," she said, looking at him. "What do you think?" Siegfried grinned, and narrowed his eyes. She wore brass arm and leg protectors that gleamed, when the candle light hit them.  On her knees were gold knee plates engraved with trees and flowers. She bought gold and iron boots, which she thought were too heavy, but Siegfried insisted that they were good for battle.  Her hands were partially covered with brass hand guards with black leather cut off gloves underneath. The breastplate was engraved with tree and flowers, and her mask was held on her head by a black leather strap.  Siegfried walked up to her smiling, and rolled his eyes. Suddenly, he punched her in the chest, and sent her flying back on the bed. 

"Good," he said, simply. "Now all you have to do is get use to being attacked vhile vearing it." Siegfried laughed and pulled her off the bed. She gave him a deadly glare, and pushed him away from her. "I am sorry, love. I vas just testing it for you."  Natsumi undid the straps that held her armor on, and threw it at Siegfried, as she took it off.  He laughed, catching her knee plates in his hands, and backing away from her.

"Come help me, Sieg," she teased, giving him a sensuous smile.  Siegfried walked up to her, and proceeded to take off her breastplate.  Natsumi looked at him, and thought of what happened earlier that day.  She knew he was hiding something, but this time she knew what is was.  Raphael was obsessed with him in some way, but Siegfried would not tell her, of course.  "You should go talk to him." Siegfried looked up at her, and shook his head. "Yes, you should. I know he has some sort of attachment to you. I can see it in his eyes. Just tell him how you feel, and tell him he is welcome to travel with us. Go." Siegfried gazed at her, and let his hands fall to his sides. She smiled at him, and kissed him on the cheek. "Go. I'll be waiting here."  Siegfried kissed her, and brushed a strand of hair from her face.  He blew her a kiss, as he shut the door. He stood in the hallway, and stared down the hall.  The hall seemed to change, as he made his way to Raphael's door.  He stood outside the door, and softly tapped on the door. 

"Entrez," said the voice on the other side of the door.  Siegfried turned the doorknob and slowly opened the door.  He pressed his teeth together when he heard the door creak.  The room was dark; the only light a candle by the nightstand.  Raphael lay on the bed, his head buried beneath his pillow.  Siegfried slowly walked to the bed, and stood over him.  "What do you want?" said Raphael, his voice muffled by the pillow. 

"I need you to understand. I am sorry I hit you again, but…" replied Siegfried, his voice hesitating.  Raphael shifted, and brought his head from under the pillow.

"Go away. What is the point of us talking?" cried Raphael, looking up at the ceiling.  Siegfried sat next to him on the bed.  His eyes searched the Frenchman's face, as he laid his hand on his arm. Raphael kept his blue eyes to the ceiling, and sighed. He wanted to strangled Siegfried, and keep his lifeless body near him always. He wanted to look on his face forever, even when his body began to decay. Siegfried was a savior to him, the only one who could bring him out of his guilt-ridden hell.  He thought of Amy, and wished she were by his side. His eyes began to fill with tears as he thought how he betrayed Siegfried. Raphael turned his head to him, and moved his hand to touch his face. He moved over and put his pillow in the empty space.  Siegfried lay down next to him, and gazed at the candle light.  Raphael caressed Siegfried's hair, and moved it out of his face. 

"You are my savior. The only reason why I can lift my head up from the darkness. I am so glad you do not hate me for what I did to you.  My angel, my strength," he whispered in his ear.  "I love you, Siegfried. I love you."

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Author's Notes:  Alright, that's chapter 5. I hoped you all like it. Forgive me for the errors. R&R  ^__^