Disclaimer: Yami no Matsuei is not mine, it will never be mine. The
characters are the sole property of Matsushita Youko. This story and
concept are the property of Lockeheart (that's me!) - So please don't
steal. I have been working hard on this!
This story is loosely based on the manga and the anime, taking components from both, but not necessarily all points. Some liberalization taken by me to suit my plot. Hope I don't offend or confuse.
Original Characters are the property of Lockeheart.
So on with the Show!
Chapter Twelve – Reflections of the Heart
By Lockeheart
********************
It was the waiting that was the worst. Hakushaku wrung his hands nervously as he eyed the still smoking candle that had represented Hisoka's life. The flame was gone, snuffed out by the Earl's hand at the order of Enma Himself. The Earl slumped down into a nearby chair and contemplated what he had just done with more than a little trepidation. It was easy to end a life, but to bring it back; that was much harder, even for the master of candles. The longer he waited, straining to hear for Enma's command to bring the lost soul back, the harder it would be. Why was Enma hesitating?
He was working God's will . . . so why did it feel so wrong?
Hakushaku worked the Hall of Candles for as long as he could remember, snuffing out the representatives of life easily and without worry. Death wasn't so bad, if one considered that it was not an end, but rather a beginning of a new cycle. The shell died, but the soul moved on to await judgment, and then a new existence. But even that did not negate the seriousness of The Earl's job. He ended lives, tore families apart with a flick of his wrist. The departing soul did not comprehend the fact that it was moving on to new things, it often only dwelled upon what had been lost; and that is what made it so hard sometimes.
The soul of a Shinigami was special, as it was granted a second life, another chance to affect the living world. Only those with certain qualities became one, and even then, they often did not last long. The job gave one forever, if they wished it, but to exist among such suffering; Tsuzuki was a rare case indeed. Hakushaku closed his eyes and lowered his head. Suffering is what Tsuzuki would have to bear, would continue to bear for as long as Enma willed the man's service. God may have the greater good in mind, but that did not completely cover up the suffering of the individual.
Hakushaku looked to the candle once again. Assuming that both Hisoka and Tsuzuki survived the trial by fire that Enma was forcing the two of them through, Hakushaku was sure that Enma would have the wrath of the Shokan division to deal with. Enma did not interact with the division like The Earl did, and he was sure that Enma underestimated the sheer stubbornness the division held. Enma believed that the Shokan division would understand in the end, but understanding did not equate forgiveness.
Enma was a great manipulator and it was the reason why He was in charge of the realm of the dead. 'With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility'; it was a phrase that Hakushaku had often heard, and while he sympathized with Tsuzuki and Hisoka's situation, The Earl couldn't help but pity his Lord's position as well. Life was not black and white, just varying shades of indiscriminate grey.
Enma was responsible for the wellbeing of the masses, both in life and in death. There was little time or chance for the Lord of the Dead to tend to his own needs. Hakushaku shook his head at old memories. The one time his Lord had tried to be Himself, rather than Lord, it had nearly cost all of existence itself. Enma had punished the offending party, but Hakushaku could not deny the fact that Enma was punishing Himself at the same time.
Hakushaku could still hear the trembling emotion in Enma's voice as he denounced Hikaru's actions. What Hikaru had done was not evil, or wrong; but the effects of loving a God . . . Hakushaku sighed and reached out to gently touch the snuffed out candle. Love made people do stupid things; it made one weak and strong at the same time. Hakushaku was sure that Enma still loved Hikaru as well, even as He denounced Hikaru's actions – it was why Enma could not bring himself to destroy Hikaru's soul when it was what the law demanded. An angel loving a God was one thing, but a God loving an angel?
A shockwave slammed into the Hall of Candles and The Earl looked up as a rain of dust fell from the high ceiling to fall upon his form. The Hall was more than just a building, and it would take much more than what the demons were dishing out against the building to gain access. Ancient magics protected the sacred place, along with the precious light the Hall enclosed; no demon would be able to step foot within the hallowed halls. The light of souls . . . it was even more tempting to the demon race than the souls already within Meifu itself. Hakushaku winced as another blow rocked the Hall.
"Hurry up Enma . . . let me bring back Hisoka's soul before it is too late."
********************
"I'm worried."
GuShoShin looked to his younger brother who hovered in the corner of the library. His red cap was falling off his head, and in GuShoShin's eyes, his brother looked very scared. 003 hooted softly from under the desk, where she had taken cover from the hostile environment. A tremor ran through the walls of the library, and a spray of dust and debris fell from the ceiling to coat the brothers. The twin gods had been ordered to stay low, and let the Shinigami do their thing. They held the radio that connected the teams to one another, and their job was to ensure things went smoothly. It was an important job, but also a frustrating one. To wait while the ones you care for head into danger, it was a cruel thing for Konoe to ask of them, even if it was required.
GuShoShin shook his head and pulled his blue cap on tightly. "Grr. This is ridiculous, I can't just wait here!" His small fist slammed into the desk, startling the already skittish form of 003. The small owl hooted questioningly at GuShoShin.
"But you heard the chief . . ."
GuShoShin whirled around to look his brother in the eye. "Of course I did! But I can't just hide here and hope things will be alright!" GuShoShin puffed out his chest and smiled a brave smile to his twin. "They are our friends, this is our home. We can't just stay here and do nothing."
"But -"
"It's okay brother." GuShoShin pulled on the small pack that held his laptop. "Someone has to stay here and be communications. I know you won't let me down." GuShoShin checked to make sure that he had everything and turned around to look at his twin. "We are 'gods' Shin, we have a duty to uphold."
Shin rubbed at his chin thoughtfully. "I'll stay here and make sure our people out there have communications . . ." GuShoShin beamed at his brother and hoisted his pack onto his back. "But you know bro . . . as 'gods' we rank very low in the grand scheme of things." GuShoShin physically started at his brother's low blow, and was about to comment when his brother gave him a victory sign. "Go do what you can for our family GuShoShin."
His brother's comment brought warmth to him, and GuShoShin gave his brother a victory sign back. Another explosion rocked the library, and he looked to the ceiling. "It is a good thing that we got this place reinforced after Tsuzuki went and blew it up, so it would be a shame if it collapsed again . . . hold down the fort Shin."
"Will do."
GuShoShin turned and flew as fast as he could out of the library and to the battlefield beyond. It was a reckless thing to do, as his brother reminded him, as gods they ranked very low, but as a family, they would fight to protect their own. GuShoShin took a deep breath and opened the doors of the library to the flaming inferno beyond.
********************
Tatsumi turned his head slightly as he watched a demon throw itself against Tatsumi's shadow ribbons, and it fell back just as quickly with numerous wounds. The creature snarled and glared at Tatsumi, and he raised his hand and Tatsumi snapped his fingers. A ribbon of shadow uncurled itself from the mass winding about him to wrap about the offending demon, and Tatsumi watched as the shadow sliced through the demons flesh like a hot knife through butter. The demon barely had a chance to react. With barely a nod, the shadows melted back to their original state and Tatsumi looked to the demons body upon the ground, closing his eyes briefly.
They weren't going to make it.
For every demon he defeated, another three would take its place, and Tatsumi would repeat his deadly dance. For it was a dance of sorts, as Tatsumi barely had time to stop for a moment before he was moving off to save another soul. A majority of the denizens within Meifu had finally made it to the safety zones, but unfortunately for a great number, it was already too late. Blood stained the streets of Meifu, and Tatsumi averted his eyes from the numerous remains of those who had been unable to escape.
Tendrils of smoke rose to the sky everywhere Tatsumi looked, and the choking fumes clung to Tatsumi's lungs like a second skin. The fearful screams of the denizens of Meifu rang through the air, mingling with the guttural cries of triumph from the marauding demons. Word had apparently spread quickly among the invading demons, and Tatsumi was pleased to note that he was considered a threat. Yet it didn't stop them from trying to overcome the shadow master with sheer number. Tatsumi eyed his surroundings with caution as he strode purposefully down the empty rubble strewn street.
The evacuation plan developed by Konoe was a simple, but ingenious plan. Get the populace to designated areas, keep them open as long as possible to try to get stragglers, and then seal the zones. The places chosen were outfitted with devices that Watari had spent the better part of a year developing. Shield generators that would encompass each zone in a barrier that no demon could penetrate. The only fault of the plan was that no one save a few, had taken it seriously.
A majority of the citizens of Meifu, along with a number of departments had scoffed at the idea, claiming it was impossible for demons to breach the barrier surrounding Meifu. Tatsumi closed his eyes briefly as he remembered the hostility they had received at even the mention of such a situation to arise. The angels had been too proud of their abilities to even consider it, even though the entrance of Saagatanasu had been evidence that it could happen. It had been a special circumstance, but the danger had still been the same. The High Council chose not to help fund or augment the plan in any way, unwilling to participate in a joint effort with the Shokan division over 'a little scare'.
It was that arrogance that was now costing lives.
There had been no contact from the High Council, nor any indication of any assistance from above. It was as if Meifu had been abandoned by those who were sworn to protect it. Tatsumi clenched his fists in frustration and he narrowed his eyes. Where was Enma? Where was the High Council? Surely the invasion of Meifu warranted some sort of action . . . didn't it? The Shokan division was powerful, each one of its employees capable of great feats, but there were not enough of them. The demons outnumbered them by far, and Tatsumi feared for his co-workers. He moved quickly down the street, heading for the rendezvous point he and the Chief had agreed upon.
He wanted to be in so many places at once that Tatsumi felt like butter scraped too thin over toast. He had a responsibility to make sure that Konoe's plan was implemented smoothly, and it was one that Tatsumi could not shirk. Tatsumi believed in his co-workers abilities, but it did not stop him from wishing he could be alongside each and every one of them, to protect them. There was also Muraki to dwell upon, and Tatsumi hoped to find the doctor in his passage through Meifu. A shadow aside Tatsumi wavered dangerously as Tatsumi's emotions got the better of him. If he saw the doctor . . . Tatsumi narrowed his eyes. The trouble that Muraki had caused was unparalleled by almost anything, and the pain that Muraki had inflicted . . . Tatsumi lowered his head as the haunted look that had flashed in Tsuzuki's eyes came to mind.
It had been a shock to see Tsuzuki burst through the doors with Hisoka in his arms. The sight of Hisoka was like a physical blow to Tatsumi, and it had taken him a moment to take control of the situation. It had been even more devastating to see how much pain Tsuzuki was in, both physically and mentally. Tatsumi had known for a while now that he would never fill the gap within Tsuzuki's heart, especially after Tatsumi had broken his partnership with Tsuzuki so long ago. The pain of that betrayal had never left Tsuzuki, and Tatsumi knew that no matter how much things mended, that he would never have a chance. But Tsuzuki had found something . . . had found someone to fill the void in his heart, and Tatsumi knew that Tsuzuki would be okay, as long as 'he' stayed.
"You had better live Hisoka . . . for Tsuzuki's sake." Tatsumi muttered savagely under his breath as he turned the corner. Hisoka's appearance at the Shokan division had upturned more than just Tsuzuki's life. Somehow the moody teenager had managed to worm his way into everyone's heart, without even trying; without even realizing that he himself needed everyone in the Shokan division as much as they needed him. Tatsumi sighed as he eyed his surroundings carefully, ever alert for another attack. If Hisoka died, it would more than just Tsuzuki affected by the loss. Tatsumi frowned as he rethought his words. "Live Hisoka . . . for yourself, and for us."
The street before Tatsumi was littered with rubble, and from the looks of it, the surrounding buildings had been obliterated. The stench of blood and burnt flesh assaulted Tatsumi's nostrils, and he fought the urge to gag on the intensity of the sight. But it was the sight of a man kneeling in the middle of the disorder that stole Tatsumi's attention. The tendrils of shadow about him bled off and back into the surroundings as Tatsumi lost his concentration.
"Muraki . . ."
********************
Watari brushed a stray lock of hair out of his eyes and looked to the sky. He was afraid if he didn't look up, the tears shining in his eyes would escape. It had been difficult to herd the curious crowd of people away from the room where Hisoka's body lay. But Watari was unwilling to take any crap from the people, and perhaps it was the look in his eyes that had urged the crowd a respectful distance back. Watari wiped at his eyes savagely and looked to the room that Tsuzuki had entered.
His heart ached. Watari lowered his head and closed his eyes briefly, unwilling to let his tears fall. It had been too late for Hisoka, and the only thing he could do for the boy was to make death as painless as possible. He had known within moments of examining Hisoka, but he could not let Tsuzuki believe he couldn't do anything; even if it was the truth. A body is designed to house one soul and Watari believed that Hisoka had probably suffered much, without letting Tsuzuki know. Sometimes, no matter how hard one wishes and believes; no matter how strong love is - there are some things that are impossible. Watari shook his head in anger and frustration.
He wanted to believe love could conquer all.
The look upon Tsuzuki's face when Watari had delivered the news . . . it was heartrending. It was like a light had gone out in Tsuzuki's eyes, and it had taken every ounce of Watari's strength not to let the grief he felt spill in front of Tsuzuki. The man had his own hurts to deal with, and someone needed to be strong between the two of them. Watari took up that job with solemn grace.
When a heartbreaking cry of anguish began to sound from the room, it shook Watari to the core. A tear escaped his guard, and Watari let the small drop roll down his face. He needed to be strong now. As much as it hurt, it was nothing compared to the grief Tsuzuki felt. The milling crowd within the building was a buzz, and Watari looked to their curious faces with anger. He took a deep breath to calm his weary soul; it wasn't their fault, they didn't know any better.
There was still a job to be completed. Watari pulled his glasses out of his lab coat pocket and carefully put them on. It was hard to ignore the pained voice from the room where Hisoka lay, but Watari forced himself to do so. He would grieve later, when the crisis was over. He had a responsibility to the people who surrounded him, a duty to protect them. Watari put on his best business face considering the circumstances, and began to bark out orders to the nearest people about him. They responded sluggishly but at least they listened. Watari looked over his shoulder to where Tsuzuki and Hisoka were, and took another deep breath.
The shield generators were ungainly things, but to Watari they were works of art. He reached out and gently touched the gleaming metal, and looked out to the horizon for the signal. Smoke rose along the horizon, indicating the devastation wrecked upon Meifu. Watari wished it could be just a bad dream, a dream that he would wake up from with his notes plastered against his face, having woken up from a late night session of experiments. He flinched as the sounds of Tsuzuki's grief sounded through the building and his heart went out to his friend.
Anger filled Watari's heart as he looked to the destruction about them. All the grief, all the pain, it could be linked to a single person. Watari slammed his fist into the doorframe he was leaning against and let a little of the emotion he was holding in check escape. To think such thoughts about Him, it was on the edge of treason, but Watari couldn't help it. Muraki was an evil man, there was no doubt about that, but it was Enma who had sealed Tsuzuki's and Hisoka's fate. Someone higher up had set them all up like chess pieces, using the Shokan division to uncover a plot of sorts.
Watari was sure of it now; especially as he looked to the remains of the scuffle Tsuzuki had had with the demons just moments before. Like lambs to the slaughter, they followed their orders, even as they questioned, because that was what a Shinigami was supposed to do: Follow orders. Tsuzuki's heartbreaking cries broke Watari's thoughts, and Watari lowered his head wearily. He wasn't sure how much worse things could get.
Meifu was a mess, and demons roamed the land as if they owned it. There was no help from above from what Watari could tell, and that told Watari what he suspected. He raised his eyes to look to the setting sun upon the horizon, the raging fires about giving it a hellish look. Hisoka was dead . . . that in itself was devastating on its own. Watari's throat tightened as he recalled Hisoka's lifeless body. The boy had been moody, but he was one hell of a worker, and the changes he made to the Shokan division without even trying . . . Watari blinked back the wetness within his eyes.
They were on their own, and Watari seriously wondered what mattered more to the High Council and Enma than the potential destruction of Meifu? A flash of Trinity trying to force their way into the Shokan division jumped into Watari's mind, and he frowned. Surely the man hunt over Tsuzuki did not claim priority over the safety of their world?
Rubbing at his temples wearily, Watari turned to look to the people he had sworn to protect, and smiled slightly as they continued the jobs that he had placed before them. People didn't let fear overwhelm them when they had something to keep them occupied. He wished that 003 could be there with him, as the little owl was an unexpected but welcome source of comfort to the blonde scientist. But he had ordered her to stay with the GuShoShin twins, unwilling to let his little friend encounter danger. Watari sighed as he straightened up from his lean against the doorframe and searched the sky for Konoe's sign to proceed. The generators would remain silent until the last possible moment, to allow stragglers to get to the safety zones.
It was then that Watari noticed the silence. He looked to where Hisoka's body lay, as if his eyes could penetrate those walls. Tsuzuki had stopped crying. Yet the tension Watari felt refused to leave his body. The silence was perhaps just as heartbreaking as it had been to hear Tsuzuki's sobs. The cries had at least indicated that Tsuzuki was still alive, that he felt. Warily, Watari approached the small room, and he was a couple feet from the door when a disturbing sound began to emanate from the small confines.
It was laughter.
But it wasn't like anything Watari had heard before. There was little joy in the sound, and to Watari it sounded like a man at the end of his ropes. The murmur of the people around him jolted Watari to his senses, and he glared to the crowd once, and they hurriedly went back to their tasks. The laughter was getting louder, and the louder it got, the more worried Watari became. He stepped slowly to the door, not wanting to intrude on Tsuzuki's grief, but needing to make sure Tsuzuki was still with him. But he didn't get the chance.
The sound of wings flapping alerted Watari and he whirled about defensively. The demons just would not give up! He pulled out a pad of paper and a pencil from one of the numerous pockets within his lab coat and rushed towards the entrance of the building. In the setting sun three figures landed in the clearing before the safety zone, their wings spread out in a show of force. Watari stood defensively between the building and the newcomers, trying desperately to tune out the dismaying sound of Tsuzuki's laughter behind him. People were screaming, children were crying and Watari found strength buried deep within him.
It was hard to see the features of the intruders, but Watari knew that it didn't matter. No demon would step foot within the sanctuary of the building. He would defend the people and his grieving friend within.
"Hmph. Your 'Secretary' is not here." Watari physically started at that booming but familiar voice. "I was looking forward to pounding his smug face into the ground."
Watari let didn't let his guard down as he regarded the newcomers with anger. "There are more important things to deal with than fixing your wounded pride Trinity." He waved his hand to indicate the frightened people behind him. "Has Enma finally decided to lend us a hand in the saving of Meifu? Or is this just a social call?" He knew he should be more serious but Watari couldn't help but be sarcastic. More than half of Meifu was drenched in blood, and the other half was cowering in fear at the rampaging demons.
The Trinity leader gave a small sniff, as if smelling something foul, and Watari fought the urge to make another snappy comment. "We are on a mission 'Shinigami', we know Tsuzuki is here. There are others to help you out; we on the other hand are after something much more dangerous than demons." The angel said the word as if it was something foul, and he looked down his nose to Watari. "It is your job to defend Meifu; we don't have time to mop up after your sloppiness." The winged leader looked about the rubble strewn area with a look of disgust. "Where is Tsuzuki?"
Anger was too kind a word for what Watari felt, but he took a deep breath and gave the Trinity leader a glare that could kill. "More dangerous?" His voice was low and clipped, and Watari was sure that Trinity could hear the contempt in his voice. "Meifu is on the verge of collapse, souls are being DESTROYED, and all you guys care about is hunting down a harmless man? What the hell is Enma thinking, or is it the High Council this time?" A collective gasp came from behind Watari as he made the comment, but he kept his eyes upon the three angels before him. He was through with bending to outside forces.
"Harmless?" The Trinity leader raised his fist to emphasize his point. "You are protecting a ticking time bomb. High Council needs such danger confined. Your Tsuzuki could snap the world apart if he desired it." The anger in Trinity's eyes was vivid, but all Watari could see was contempt. The blonde angel shook his head. "Now get out of our way before we remove you forcibly!"
"High Council is mad if they believe that Tsuzuki would ever wish such a thing to happen! They are jumping at shadows, and you are blindly following their madness! Tsuzuki would rather die before willingly harming another, but you couldn't let that be!" Watari was raging now, but he didn't care. "Tsuzuki has just lost the most important person in the world to him . . . I won't let you take his grief away from him as well." Hisoka was dead because of the insanity about them and Tsuzuki was on the edge of madness. Everything was turned upside down, and Watari wanted to rage at the powers that be. He wanted to go back to being happy, but Watari wasn't sure if that would ever truly happen ever again. Watari raised his eyes to meet the Trinity leader's shocked blue ones and he pointed towards the destruction that lay about them. "Do not condemn a man for which you know NOTHING OF!"
The Trinity leader paused for a moment, as if taking in Watari's words seriously for perhaps the first time. "His partner is dead?" Watari nodded curtly to Trinity, unwilling to let his voice speak. The leader turned to his companions and Watari could see a concerned look pass between them. "The fail-safe is gone . . . he is out of contro -" Watari glared to the trio, his stance firm when the building behind him exploded with sudden force. Screams and chaos enveloped the building, and Watari choked on the billowing dust cloud that flew in every direction.
The roof of the building was gone, crumbled in response to Tsuzuki's raw power. Tsuzuki hung suspended in the air with Hisoka's limp form cradled in his arms. A wicked violet hued blackness swirled about Tsuzuki's form and Watari trembled slightly at the sight. Gleaming white feathers fell about the duo, giving the scene a surreal quality. Trinity's leader was bellowing out orders to his men behind Watari but the scientist maintained his gaze upon his friend.
Tsuzuki's eyes were vacant, and as the hovering man looked about casually, Watari could tell there was no indication that Tsuzuki knew who Watari was. Feathers flew about the air, strewn about by Tsuzuki's explosive appearance, and the sight of Tsuzuki floating there with Hisoka's body in his arms, was perhaps more frightening than the marauding demons themselves.
"Stupid Shinigami! Don't you realize that the boy was the only reason why Tsuzuki hadn't drowned in the darkness within himself?" The Trinity leader's voice was harsh, and Watari spared a quick glance to the angel. "It is unleashed now and there isn't anything to stop it!" Watari could hear the angry voice of the Trinity leader yelling to his companions behind him. "Attack in formation, don't give him a chance to wield his power!"
Watari noted that Tsuzuki looked to Trinity with an expression of a man being bothered by an insect. The gaze concerned Watari, and he turned about to try to stop Trinity from approaching Tsuzuki. The man was in the throes of grief, and he wasn't quite himself . . . at least that is what Watari hoped that was all that was wrong with Tsuzuki. The crackling web of darkness about Tsuzuki didn't look safe, and the blankness within Tsuzuki's normally expressive eyes frightened Watari. Trinity was just spouting nonsense to justify their actions, it couldn't be true. "No wait -"
Watari didn't get a chance to finish what he was going to say. If he had been looking to Tsuzuki at the time, Watari would have fallen to his knees in horror. The expressions on Trinity's face did tell Watari something though, and he flattened himself to the ground as a rolling wave of fire tinged with black and purple edges sailed over him to slam into Trinity. The ground before Watari exploded in a great flash of light, and bits of cement flew into the air. People were definitely screaming now, and from the sound of it, they were near trampling over themselves in their panic. Watari raised his eyes and looked above him to where Tsuzuki remained hovering. He didn't want to look to Trinity, fearful of what he would see there.
Tsuzuki was smiling a funny sort of smile as he regarded the dust cloud where Trinity had stood, and that shook Watari to the core. Tsuzuki turned his head to contemplate Watari who remained half lying upon the ground, frozen in Tsuzuki's gaze. Tsuzuki was calm, too calm for a man who had just raised his hand against Enma's elite. Watari pulled himself shakily to his feet, and was relieved to hear the curses of the Trinity leader behind him. He knew that Trinity was not so weak to succumb to a solitary blow. Tsuzuki tilted his head slightly as he stared at Watari, and Watari spread his arms in what he hoped was a peaceful gesture.
Tsuzuki frowned momentarily, and then looked back down to the body held within his arms. Watari could see pain flash across Tsuzuki's vacant stare for a second, but then it vanished back into a blank stare. The aura about Tsuzuki began to glow, the violet hues stark against the darkness. The feathers about the pair floated unnaturally in the air, and began to pulse a white light in time to the dark aura. Watari could see a tear fall down Tsuzuki's cheek, and he began to move forward to try to talk to Tsuzuki. A hand reached for Watari, pulling him backwards, and he looked over his shoulder to see the bloodied face of the Trinity leader. The angel was yelling something to Watari, but he couldn't hear it over the loud hum emanating from the glow surrounding Tsuzuki and Hisoka. It was probably the Trinity leader's actions that saved Watari from becoming another statistic.
The safety zone vaporized in a flash of light.
********************
He wasn't sure if he wanted to laugh, or to cry.
Muraki smiled a strange sort of smile, unable and unwilling to shed tears for the shell of a man that lay cradled within his arms. Oriya's hair spilled out like a fan, the strands interlaced with the slowly cooling blood that had flowed from the massive trauma inflicted upon Oriya's chest. Muraki smoothed a hand down the line of Oriya's chin, as if his touch could somehow open the forever closed eyes. The splattered remains of the foolish demons who had sought to terminate Muraki's life lay strewn about the area, but no trace of Kiiyue was to be seen. The treacherous demoness had fled screaming, her flesh burned terribly from the force of Muraki's attack. An attack prompted by the dagger plunging into Oriya's heart, and the emotions caught within what Muraki had thought to be his dead heart.
Blood drenched Muraki suit, the life of Oriya a deep red upon the pristine white cloth. The sight was not an alien thing to Muraki, as his path had claimed many lives and stained his hands permanently with blood. The fact that it was Oriya's blood made it all different though; it made it matter. Muraki shuddered slightly but continued to caress Oriya's face. "I warned you not to follow me . . . but you were always so stubborn." Muraki's voice was hushed he and trembled slightly, pulling Oriya's limp form close to him. The flood of emotions Muraki felt, it wasn't right. He shook his head and tried to clear his muddled brain. He was always in control: ALWAYS.
People he knew had died in the past, often by his own hand, and Muraki hadn't felt an ounce of remorse at their demise. Oriya was just another tool, another puppet for which Muraki pulled the strings . . . but even as Muraki thought those thoughts, he knew they were wrong. Even upon the darkness of his path, Muraki knew that he had struggled to keep the filth that covered him from ever staining Oriya, an action that betrayed the calm façade that Muraki tried to portray. Muraki pulled back and stared into Oriya's face.
Muraki had known of Oriya's feelings for him for a long time, and had even used the man's feelings to his advantage. For the path that Muraki had chose to walk; to turn around and love another person was unthinkable. So Muraki had closed off his heart, and ignored Oriya's words, despite the whimpers of his deadening heart. It was one thing to willingly stain his hands with blood, but it was another to drag Oriya down the same path. And after a time, Muraki had managed to fool himself into believing that he cared little for Oriya. That mask, that façade had protected him from hurt, lay shattered upon the ground along with Oriya's life force.
It started out very soft at first, a kind of deep rumble from within Muraki's chest. He closed his eyes and held Oriya's body close, his shoulders trembling with emotion. But it was not tears or cries that welled up from within – it was laughter. A strangled sort of sound, tinged with an almost unnatural calm. The noise slowly became louder and louder, and Muraki clutched Oriya's bloody form tightly to his own. "Oh Oriya . . ."
Love was an emotion unnatural to Muraki . . . so why did his heart hurt so?
Perhaps he was in shock, but Muraki could care less. He had meant what he had said to Kiiyue, he had business to attend to. Muraki had worked too hard, sacrificed too much to let Kiiyue and her master stop him now that his goal was in reach. To allow the death of a single man derail him from his desire. He looked down to the broken body of Oriya and a let a single tear fall down his face. Perhaps in a strange way, Muraki did care for Oriya, but it didn't matter now. How he felt would do nothing to bring Oriya back to life, but his death . . . that brought everything into focus for Muraki.
Muraki gently laid Oriya's body down upon the ground and stood up. Laughter still clawed its way out of his throat, an unnatural and disquieting noise but Muraki did not care. It was clear now to him, even clearer than when he had first struck his deal with the demons. Muraki looked across the horizon to a very distinct building. The demons needed his help, even if Kiiyue was so arrogant to believe that now that the barrier was broken the demons would win. Within that building laid his salvation, and perhaps Oriya's as well. Muraki looked down to his friend's broken shell.
It was that solitary thought that dug its claws into Muraki's heart and refused to let go. He had told Oriya that he sought death before Kiiyue and her minions had shown up. Muraki was sure that Oriya did not truly understand what he meant by that word. He did not seek his own death, far from it; but death itself. Muraki narrowed his eyes as he thought about it. Oriya had been a fool to follow Muraki, there was no doubt of that in Muraki's mind, but he had been a fool to believe that Oriya would willingly let him fall into the darkness without a fight; a foolish sort of bravery, but an action that spoke volumes to Muraki. He was in Meifu, the realm of the dead. The edges of his desire were within his grasp. Muraki looked down to Oriya's pale face and closed his eyes. Perhaps . . .
His train of thought was disrupted by the sound of footsteps behind him. Even in his grief, Muraki had kept a sense of wariness about him. He was an enemy deep within his enemy territory; to not be cautious would get him killed. Muraki took one last look to Oriya's face, and held him close to him. There was still an objective to achieve, and Oriya's death, would just be another challenge to hurtle; Saki's death wasn't going to stop Muraki, why would Oriya's?
"Muraki . . ."
********************
The sound of water brought Oriya back from the darkness, and he opened his eyes to soft, enveloping light. He stared at the crystalline rock formation above him, the soft muted colors dancing along the crystal surface beautiful in their motion. There was no pain, no demons, no dagger embedded deep within his chest . . . no Muraki. Oriya marveled at the lack of pain from what should have been bloody wounds in his chest and slowly got to his knees. He looked about his new surroundings, confused as to where he was, or what had happened. He could see the water now, a small underwater waterfall there amidst the breathtaking rock formations. Oriya touched his chest lightly and clenched his fist. Was he dead?
"It isn't what you expected . . . is it? Death I mean."
The voice echoed within the confines of the cave, and Oriya turned his head to see who had spoken to him. A beautiful winged woman stood upon the water's surface, her wrists and ankles encircled by silver chains. Oriya felt his breath hitch as her stunning green eyes focused upon him. Something about her was familiar, but Oriya could not pinpoint the reason why he felt it. An Angel . . . Oriya blinked at the woman and shook his head in agreement to her question. It should have surprised him more, to know that he was dead, but somehow it just brought peace to Oriya's troubled heart. "Are you here to judge me?" Oriya slowly got to his feet and looked down to his kimono, which was whole once again, instead of torn and soaked with his blood.
Kiiyue had been beautiful, but this woman . . . this angel . . . was beyond comprehension. It was a beauty beyond the skin, but as Oriya looked at the woman, he could feel an aura of sorrow welling from her, and it made his heart ache. The woman smiled sadly at Oriya's response, and then gazed back to the rippling waters at her feet. "I have little right to judge anyone . . . even if I am an angel." The woman raised her eyes to stare into Oriya's own, and Oriya felt as if he was drowning in their depths. "If anything, it is I who should be judged by you." She raised her shackled wrists and fingered the shining metal. "I have hurt so many with my actions . . ."
The sorrow held within the angel's voice was painful, and Oriya shook his head to dismiss her comment. "Surely what you have done cannot have been so bad." He looked to her face and another pang of recollection stuck him. "I know you . . ."
The woman shook her head, and Oriya watched as a solitary tear tracked down her cheek to fall into the crystal clear water she stood upon. "I met you in another form, but even so . . . you were kind to me." The woman smiled sadly and gently touched the silver metal that lay across her wrists. "I am Hikaru Takahashi."
"That cannot be . . . Hikaru was a child . . ." Oriya looked to the winged woman with disbelief. He looked the woman up and down, and although the form was an adult, Oriya could not dismiss the fact that the woman looked exactly like the little girl he had met so long ago. "Muraki said you were not human . . ."
A soft laughter rang across the cavern, a light, beautiful, but sad sound. Oriya looked to the woman who was Hikaru and felt as if his heart would break. "Aye, that is true, though I am sure Muraki did little to put me in a positive light . . . not that I deserve such kindness. I am not human, I am an angel; one of God's first." She was weeping openly now, and despite the shock Oriya felt, he felt her pain. "I am also the child Hikaru . . . that form was my most recent prison." Hikaru swept her hand across her form as if to introduce Oriya to herself. "The child was just an illusion . . . this is my true form."
It was more than shocking and Oriya reached out to slowly lower himself down onto a large rock formation, where he sat and tried to process what Hikaru told him. "If you are an angel . . . then why did you let Muraki use you? You are much more than a tool, or a puppet, especially if you are an angel!" Oriya raised his eyes to meet Hikaru's tear filled ones. "Muraki said you were bound together with Hisoka's soul . . . I saw . . . I saw the empty shell Hisoka became . . . that was you I saw wasn't it?" Oriya frowned as Hikaru nodded in response to Oriya's ramblings. "You have the power to change people's hearts . . . why did you let Muraki continue upon his dark path?"
"I cannot change a person . . . the only one with that kind of power is the individual themselves." Hikaru stared back to Oriya, whose anger was apparent upon his face. "The only person who has the power to save Muraki is standing here with me now." Oriya shook his head in disbelief at Hikaru's words. Hikaru lowered her head and slumped to her knees, her form still unnaturally above the water's surface. "Muraki used me, and I let him . . . because even angels are weak." Oriya watched as Hikaru pulled her knees close to her frame and her wings wrapped about her protectively.
"You lie . . ." Oriya clenched his fists as Hikaru's words echoed through his head. "I have no power." The memory of his recent death came to him. "Even as I breathed my last, I could not sway him from his path." The pain of that, of knowing that despite the emotion Muraki had displayed for him at the brink of death, Oriya had not been able to pull Muraki from the darkness; it was worse than actually dying itself. "I did not want to die." Oriya frowned and touched his chest, as if to check for the wounds that should have been there.
A tense silence filled the glowing cavern as two pain filled souls sought to come to terms with their pain. It was then that another though slammed into Oriya's already battered senses. "If I am dead, then why are you here?" With everything, it wasn't something that crossed his mind, but as Oriya thought about it, the more it confused him. "Your soul is bound to the Shinigami Hisoka . . . how can you be here if -" Oriya let his words trail off as the implications of Hikaru's presence there with him crystallized. When Hikaru's tear-filled eyes lifted to meet Oriya's own, he knew the truth. "Hisoka is dead . . . isn't he?"
Hikaru shook her head. "I don't know." She swept her hand to indicate the glowing cavern that surrounded the two of them. "This is where souls await judgment; usually alone. The fact that you and I are together instead of alone is strange enough in itself." Oriya watched as Hikaru shuddered. "My last sight before darkness claimed me was the demon Chymos holding Hisoka's dying form in his raised hands." Oriya frowned as he listened to Hikaru's words. "If Hisoka is dead, he should be here as well . . . but he isn't." A strangled sob escaped Hikaru's throat, and the anger Oriya felt toward the angel diminished a little.
He had only interacted with the Shinigami Hisoka twice, but both encounters had left Oriya changed. He listened as Hikaru told her version of events, of the ties that bound an angel, a Shinigami, and a demon together. She spoke of Muraki and his hand in circumstances along with the demons. The words did little to clear the confusion in Oriya's head, but did increase the pain and sorrow he felt. The cavern echoed with the halting words and broken sobs, and Oriya felt as if his heart would burst.
Silence filled the cavern once again and Oriya closed his eyes and listened to the waterfall that splashed behind Hikaru's form. "Well . . ." Oriya opened his eyes to contemplate the rippling colors racing through the rocky ceiling above him. "We can do nothing to change things now can we? Especially from here." Silence greeted his words but Oriya knew that Hikaru was listening. The sound of the water was soothing, and Oriya wished he could go back to the darkness that had claimed him before. It was painful to recall things, especially like this. Oriya tried to change the subject.
"What was your crime Hikaru? You speak of recent things, of Muraki and Hisoka, but there must have been a reason for you to be trapped on earth away from Heaven." Oriya turned his head to look to Hikaru, who looked back at Oriya with wide eyes. "What was so terrible that it was necessary to punish you?"
"I loved."
"What?"
"As an angel, we are supposed to love equally, as God Himself must." Oriya watched as Hikaru slowly climbed to her feet and she began to pace across the surface of the water, her feet dry despite the surface they walked upon. "But I wanted more, I sought a selfish desire." A bitter note filled her voice as she spoke, and Oriya watched Hikaru's random path across the water's surface. "You are lucky to be mortal . . . you are not punished for wanting to love a single person, and be loved back."
Oriya frowned. "I don't understand . . . to love is not a crime." He got to his feet and stood at the waters edge.
Hikaru raised her shackled wrists once again and shook the silver chains so they clinked. "It is, if the one you love is someone who cannot afford to have such selfish desires." She spread her wings to their full length and Oriya was once again reminded that despite the pain Hikaru felt, she was an Angel. "In the end I was granted mercy, I was sent to ChiJou, instead of the judgment I should have received. But it was not mercy to be trapped in the souls of humans, to see their love blossom and die, knowing that my love was considered something foul." Hikaru stared into Oriya's eyes, and Oriya felt as if he would be devoured by the emerald orbs. "He was just as guilty as I was, but He was not expendable, as I am."
"My crime . . . the action that was considered so foul . . ." Hikaru shook her head and Oriya saw that her vivid green eyes were once again filled with tears. "Is that I loved Enma, and He loved me back. We were lovers."
********************
"Do you understand the words coming out of my mouth?" Konoe yelled loudly as he urged the terrified people before him to run. From the corner of his eye Konoe could see the altered form of Terazuma ferociously attacking the oncoming demons. Wakaba stood at the entrance of the building, beckoning for those still beyond the safety zone to hurry. "MOVE, MOVE, MOVE!!"
Konoe's voice was hoarse from yelling, but he didn't care. The people were moving too slow, becoming easy targets for the wave of demons that continued to move forward. They were in the heart of the residential area, where the majority of Meifu's population resided, and the place the demons struck in full force. Konoe wiped his brow savagely and pulled yet another fuda out of his rapidly dwindling supply. They would have to signal soon for the shield generators to be fired up, even if there were stragglers. A demon whipped its barbed tail at Konoe's head, and he grunted as he dropped to the ground to avoid the deadly appendage.
Terazuma sailed over Konoe's head, tackling the offending demon to the ground. The fury of attacks both Terazuma and the demon laid upon one another was startling, and Konoe feared for his companion's safety. Rushing to his feet, Konoe pulled out a handful of fudas and began to cast them off in rapid succession. The swarm of demons backed off for a moment as the fury of Konoe's spells descended upon them in haste. There were too many demons, and not enough Shinigami. Konoe shook his head and turned to Wakaba who looked to her chief with fear in her eyes.
Konoe turned to urge Terazuma toward the safety zone when a deafening cry filled the air and Konoe looked up to the skies in dismay. The source of the cry was not what Konoe expected, and he almost fell to the ground in shock. The commanding form of SohRyu filled the sky, the writhing dragon an imposing sight on even good days. The demons shrieked in dismay at the new arrival, and Konoe looked to the leader of the Shikigami with a little trepidation. The last time Shikigami had run loose in Meifu, Tsuzuki had been possessed by Saagatanasu; and the presence of the Shikigami had not been a comforting thing. Along the horizon Konoe could see the swooping form of Suzaku chasing a flock of winged demons out of the sky.
Was the presence of Tsuzuki's Shikigami a good thing or a bad thing?
********************
*Wake up little one.*
The voice was quiet but persistent, and Hisoka found that the tendrils of darkness that ensnared him began to loosen. He felt as if he was drowning, and perhaps he was, there in a sea of darkness. The comforting voice spoke again, and Hisoka struggled to awaken from the darkness he found himself trapped in. *You are almost there, keep going.* The darkness about him seemed to shudder, and like a pane of glass, shattered about Hisoka, letting in a soft glowing light and the shards of darkness melted.
The sudden appearance of light when he had been surrounded by suffocating darkness was a balm to Hisoka, and he gulped in air like that of a drowning man. Comforting warmth enveloped him and Hisoka opened his eyes to find wide blue eyes staring down at him. *Welcome back Hisoka.* Hisoka blinked rapidly, and he touched the soft furry side that he was presently leaning against. Byakko.
A soft laugh, tinged with worry ran through his mind and Hisoka felt Byakko's tail loop around to enclose him in a soft warm embrace. *Thank goodness we weren't too late.* Byakko's tone was light, but Hisoka could sense an edge of seriousness in the god's words. *What was Enma thinking to do such a rash thing?* The reality of what had happened to him crashed into Hisoka like a tidal wave and he pushed against Byakko's side to look about him frantically. Hikaru and Chymos were no where to be seen. There was only he and Byakko in what seemed like a spotlight of light. Darkness pressed in on all sides, just beyond the edges of Byakko's physical body, and Hisoka knew that the darkness would claim him once again if he gave it a chance.
"I hurt . . . my heart hurts . . ." Hisoka shook his head and looked up to the Tiger god in confusion. He did not pull away from the side of Byakko, and he knew that if he tried, the Tiger would just push him back into the furry nest. "I know I am safe here . . . but I feel as if I am going to fly apart at the seams . . ." The smothering darkness was gone, but Hisoka still felt as if he would burst from anguish. Why did his heart hurt so? "Am I dead?"
Byakko frowned, or at least to Hisoka it seemed as if the Tiger did, and Byakko leaned his head down close to touch Hisoka's forehead with his own. *Well your soul is separated from your body . . . so if that is death . . . than yes you are dead.* Byakko lifted his head to look to the sky. *You should have seen SohRyu Hisoka, he is so angry at Enma right now. To extinguish your candle like that . . . the soul is a delicate thing at best . . . and yours is very weak right now. SohRyu was almost too late to save you, but he did, and he left you in my care while he and the others head to Meifu to . . . deal with 'things'* Hisoka took in Byakko's words in shock. *Death to a Shinigami is not the same as most Hisoka . . . your soul was about to fade – not head to judgment, but just disappear.*
"He had just cause." Hisoka frowned and lowered his head. "I am just one person, one soul among many. If my death will be able to save others, isn't it Enma's duty to take my life? Enma's responsibility lies with the well-being of Meifu and ChiJou; not with a single soul."
*A crowd is made up of individuals . . . or did you forget that?* Byakko's mental voice was quiet but chiding. *Do not dismiss your existence so easily Hisoka. You matter . . . just as each individual person matters. Every soul, every life is important, no matter how small. Enma of all beings should recognize that.* Byakko lowered his head down to touch Hisoka's forehead once again. *To take a life, even in the defense of others, isn't something to be done lightly, or something that can be easily reversed as Enma wishes to do with you. It has been so long since He has actually sentenced a soul to annihilation – He is acting very reckless. You matter to my master, you are his happiness. The loss of you . . . it tears Tsuzuki apart even now.*
Hisoka pulled his head away from Byakko's, the pain in his heart leaping to the forefront. With Byakko's words, Hisoka knew what that pain was and as he concentrated on it, Hisoka knew that it was Tsuzuki. "Where is he?! I have to go to him!" Hisoka struggled against Byakko's gentle grip, but found himself quickly exhausted from the efforts. Hisoka panted as stars filled his vision, and Byakko's tail curled about Hisoka protectively. His body, or soul as he was now, was too weak, and Hisoka railed at that weakness mentally. "What is wrong with me? Why can't I stand?"
*Your very essence was nearly destroyed Hisoka . . . and your soul has sustained a great deal of stress and damage from the last couple of days, let alone Enma's drastic decision.* Hisoka pushed weakly at Byakko's side, but the Tiger god refused to let Hisoka go. *Stop it Hisoka! As it is the only reason you are even here as you are now is because you are joined to my life force! If you part from my side, you will fade in an instant!*
Hisoka stopped struggling as Byakko's desperate words penetrated the fear within Hisoka's heart. He slumped against Byakko's side weakly and Hisoka leaned face-first into the soft fur. "Why did you save me then?" Hisoka's voice was muffled as he spoke into Byakko's side, but he knew that the Tiger god could hear him just fine. Tears began to fill Hisoka's eyes as he spoke, but he didn't care. "What was the point if I cannot go to Tsuzuki when he needs me?" Hisoka pounded his fists weakly into Byakko's side, not to cause damage, but to release the pent up frustration he felt. He voice wobbled with emotion, but Hisoka did not care. He had spent most of his life and a great deal of his death in denial of what he felt of what he desired. Hisoka was damned if he would deny what he felt now. "I need him Byakko . . . just as he needs me . . ."
*I know Hisoka . . . I KNOW.* Byakko curled his form about Hisoka comfortingly as the young Shinigami's strength left him. *I can feel his pain . . . just like you can.*
The pain his heart felt merged with the lingering anguish that was Tsuzuki's and Hisoka felt as if he would shatter. How he felt Tsuzuki's pain was not a mystery to Hisoka, he had always been receptive to his partner's emotions. "Oh God . . . he hurts . . . he hurts so much . . ." Hisoka mentally tuned into the thread that was Tsuzuki which was linked to his heart, and clung to it with all his being; as if somehow it could bring comfort to Tsuzuki who suffered somewhere far away from him. His empathy was both a gift and a curse, as it let Hisoka feel the one he loved, but did nothing to let him comfort Tsuzuki. "Please Byakko . . . take me to him . . . I don't care how much it hurts me . . . I need to be by his side."
*I know you want to go to him . . . but you can't just yet. You will not survive the distance we must travel to get to him in your state.* Byakko shook his head and Hisoka could see tears in the tiger's eyes. *Tsuzuki is my master and my friend . . . I would do almost anything for him, but I will not endanger you or him further by moving you from this spot until you are strong enough. SohRyu and others have gone to try to limit the damage he does to Meifu in his grief and to keep him safe. He needs you Hisoka . . . he needs you by his side so badly . . . and I think . . . that you need him as well.*
Hisoka wept now, his tears hot against his cheeks as he clung to Byakko tightly. He past self would have been ashamed at the weakness he displayed, but Hisoka did not care anymore. What was the point of clinging to that mask when his heart lay broken before him? "I know . . . I know you are right. But it doesn't ease the pain within me Byakko." Byakko's head pressed lightly against Hisoka's weeping form, and Hisoka knew that the shikigami shared his pain. "What can I do to speed things up?"
*Just stay here with me until I say we can move.*
Hisoka flung his arms tight around Byakko's neck and pressed his face against the tiger god's soft fur. It hurt so much, knowing he could ease Tsuzuki's suffering, but unable to reach him as he was. He felt like a child clinging to a teddy bear, but for the first time in what seemed like forever, that knowledge did not shame Hisoka in the slightest. The two of them lay in the pool of light, drawing strength in more ways than one from one another.
********************
Author's Notes:
Ahem. I guess I should apologize for the severe lateness of this chapter. The previous chapter had been very difficult to write, and I am proud of it. But as I went to start up this chapter, I suddenly realized that I had seemingly negated almost half of my usual P.O.V.'s. That combined with a sudden attack of writer's block left me in a precarious position. I have an outline for this story, I always have, but as I have written, some things have changed. Those changes went and bit me in the proverbial butt.
As for the varying points of view, I decided I wanted to look into multiple characters, what they thought. I deemed it important, more so than progressing actual action. Plot does develop, and things are finally being revealed, so I hope you don't jump on me for not really resolving any actual problems – such as Oriya being dead, or Hisoka.
I realize that characters are OOC . . . I tried to keep Muraki as a rat bastard, and while turning him into a weeping mess would be completely wrong, so to was keeping him arrogant and haughty, especially in light of recent events. Oriya is his heart, and now his heart is dead. There is also Hisoka and his emotional outburst. Well . . . can't really blame the guy, I mean, Hisoka has finally found someone to love and love him back; and now he is trapped away from Tsuzuki. The fact that it isn't permanent or the fact that he is not alone doesn't matter much to Hisoka. To be torn away from his heart throws all those considerations out the window so to speak.
There is also Hikaru . . . I hope I haven't completely thrown you for a loop with her. In essence, her true form is that which Oriya sees. She is a grown up, not a child as the child version of herself was just her current form of prison. She both is, and isn't the child Hikaru. As to whether the actual child Hikaru, the soul, did exist . . . well . . . yes she did, but the Angel Hikaru became strong enough to take control of the body.
Her crime was to love Enma, and Enma's crime was to love her back just as strongly. A God cannot devote His heart to a single person like that, so in essence, Hikaru's actions were the greatest treason. His love sought to preserve her from destruction, but His choice to trap her in an endless loop of life, a passenger along for the ride with each human soul she was reborn with; was an infinitely worse punishment. To be reminded of what one had, and lost, it would drive almost anyone to be a little unbalanced. She just wanted to confront Enma once again, to go home. Whether that means love, or just oblivion – we will see.
I know I had Hikaru state that they were Enma's children – and I hope no one took her love for Enma as some sort of incest or something. I mean, if you really think about it, we are ALL related to one another . . . God may have 'created' the angels, but he is not their 'father' . . . does that make any sense at all? I know I am putting a lot into an original character, but I deemed it necessary to give Muraki the foothold he needed to get himself and the demons into Meifu; the added chaos to push things to the edge so to speak. I want to stick to the main characters that make up the Yami no Matsuei universe, but I cannot deny the fact that sometimes there needs to be an 'outer force' to push plot.
So . . . this is it, the next chapter. I know I said something about this being the last chapter . . . but well . . . I lied. I don't anticipate this story being much more longer . . . I hope. So anyways, please forgive me for the lateness of this chapter. I will strive to not take so long for the next chapter.
Reviews and comments on my story thus far would be most appreciated. As a wanna be author, it is encouraging to hear from those who read one's work. So even if you have nothing to say other than 'Good job!' or 'You Suck!' I would still like to hear from you. Those who have reviewed already, I want to thank you for your input! It really does encourage me and helps me get these chapters out.
Also I just have to thank Matsushita for creating such wonderful characters! Humor, darkness, romance - all the fun stuff rolled into one! Thank you!
This story is loosely based on the manga and the anime, taking components from both, but not necessarily all points. Some liberalization taken by me to suit my plot. Hope I don't offend or confuse.
Original Characters are the property of Lockeheart.
So on with the Show!
Chapter Twelve – Reflections of the Heart
By Lockeheart
********************
It was the waiting that was the worst. Hakushaku wrung his hands nervously as he eyed the still smoking candle that had represented Hisoka's life. The flame was gone, snuffed out by the Earl's hand at the order of Enma Himself. The Earl slumped down into a nearby chair and contemplated what he had just done with more than a little trepidation. It was easy to end a life, but to bring it back; that was much harder, even for the master of candles. The longer he waited, straining to hear for Enma's command to bring the lost soul back, the harder it would be. Why was Enma hesitating?
He was working God's will . . . so why did it feel so wrong?
Hakushaku worked the Hall of Candles for as long as he could remember, snuffing out the representatives of life easily and without worry. Death wasn't so bad, if one considered that it was not an end, but rather a beginning of a new cycle. The shell died, but the soul moved on to await judgment, and then a new existence. But even that did not negate the seriousness of The Earl's job. He ended lives, tore families apart with a flick of his wrist. The departing soul did not comprehend the fact that it was moving on to new things, it often only dwelled upon what had been lost; and that is what made it so hard sometimes.
The soul of a Shinigami was special, as it was granted a second life, another chance to affect the living world. Only those with certain qualities became one, and even then, they often did not last long. The job gave one forever, if they wished it, but to exist among such suffering; Tsuzuki was a rare case indeed. Hakushaku closed his eyes and lowered his head. Suffering is what Tsuzuki would have to bear, would continue to bear for as long as Enma willed the man's service. God may have the greater good in mind, but that did not completely cover up the suffering of the individual.
Hakushaku looked to the candle once again. Assuming that both Hisoka and Tsuzuki survived the trial by fire that Enma was forcing the two of them through, Hakushaku was sure that Enma would have the wrath of the Shokan division to deal with. Enma did not interact with the division like The Earl did, and he was sure that Enma underestimated the sheer stubbornness the division held. Enma believed that the Shokan division would understand in the end, but understanding did not equate forgiveness.
Enma was a great manipulator and it was the reason why He was in charge of the realm of the dead. 'With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility'; it was a phrase that Hakushaku had often heard, and while he sympathized with Tsuzuki and Hisoka's situation, The Earl couldn't help but pity his Lord's position as well. Life was not black and white, just varying shades of indiscriminate grey.
Enma was responsible for the wellbeing of the masses, both in life and in death. There was little time or chance for the Lord of the Dead to tend to his own needs. Hakushaku shook his head at old memories. The one time his Lord had tried to be Himself, rather than Lord, it had nearly cost all of existence itself. Enma had punished the offending party, but Hakushaku could not deny the fact that Enma was punishing Himself at the same time.
Hakushaku could still hear the trembling emotion in Enma's voice as he denounced Hikaru's actions. What Hikaru had done was not evil, or wrong; but the effects of loving a God . . . Hakushaku sighed and reached out to gently touch the snuffed out candle. Love made people do stupid things; it made one weak and strong at the same time. Hakushaku was sure that Enma still loved Hikaru as well, even as He denounced Hikaru's actions – it was why Enma could not bring himself to destroy Hikaru's soul when it was what the law demanded. An angel loving a God was one thing, but a God loving an angel?
A shockwave slammed into the Hall of Candles and The Earl looked up as a rain of dust fell from the high ceiling to fall upon his form. The Hall was more than just a building, and it would take much more than what the demons were dishing out against the building to gain access. Ancient magics protected the sacred place, along with the precious light the Hall enclosed; no demon would be able to step foot within the hallowed halls. The light of souls . . . it was even more tempting to the demon race than the souls already within Meifu itself. Hakushaku winced as another blow rocked the Hall.
"Hurry up Enma . . . let me bring back Hisoka's soul before it is too late."
********************
"I'm worried."
GuShoShin looked to his younger brother who hovered in the corner of the library. His red cap was falling off his head, and in GuShoShin's eyes, his brother looked very scared. 003 hooted softly from under the desk, where she had taken cover from the hostile environment. A tremor ran through the walls of the library, and a spray of dust and debris fell from the ceiling to coat the brothers. The twin gods had been ordered to stay low, and let the Shinigami do their thing. They held the radio that connected the teams to one another, and their job was to ensure things went smoothly. It was an important job, but also a frustrating one. To wait while the ones you care for head into danger, it was a cruel thing for Konoe to ask of them, even if it was required.
GuShoShin shook his head and pulled his blue cap on tightly. "Grr. This is ridiculous, I can't just wait here!" His small fist slammed into the desk, startling the already skittish form of 003. The small owl hooted questioningly at GuShoShin.
"But you heard the chief . . ."
GuShoShin whirled around to look his brother in the eye. "Of course I did! But I can't just hide here and hope things will be alright!" GuShoShin puffed out his chest and smiled a brave smile to his twin. "They are our friends, this is our home. We can't just stay here and do nothing."
"But -"
"It's okay brother." GuShoShin pulled on the small pack that held his laptop. "Someone has to stay here and be communications. I know you won't let me down." GuShoShin checked to make sure that he had everything and turned around to look at his twin. "We are 'gods' Shin, we have a duty to uphold."
Shin rubbed at his chin thoughtfully. "I'll stay here and make sure our people out there have communications . . ." GuShoShin beamed at his brother and hoisted his pack onto his back. "But you know bro . . . as 'gods' we rank very low in the grand scheme of things." GuShoShin physically started at his brother's low blow, and was about to comment when his brother gave him a victory sign. "Go do what you can for our family GuShoShin."
His brother's comment brought warmth to him, and GuShoShin gave his brother a victory sign back. Another explosion rocked the library, and he looked to the ceiling. "It is a good thing that we got this place reinforced after Tsuzuki went and blew it up, so it would be a shame if it collapsed again . . . hold down the fort Shin."
"Will do."
GuShoShin turned and flew as fast as he could out of the library and to the battlefield beyond. It was a reckless thing to do, as his brother reminded him, as gods they ranked very low, but as a family, they would fight to protect their own. GuShoShin took a deep breath and opened the doors of the library to the flaming inferno beyond.
********************
Tatsumi turned his head slightly as he watched a demon throw itself against Tatsumi's shadow ribbons, and it fell back just as quickly with numerous wounds. The creature snarled and glared at Tatsumi, and he raised his hand and Tatsumi snapped his fingers. A ribbon of shadow uncurled itself from the mass winding about him to wrap about the offending demon, and Tatsumi watched as the shadow sliced through the demons flesh like a hot knife through butter. The demon barely had a chance to react. With barely a nod, the shadows melted back to their original state and Tatsumi looked to the demons body upon the ground, closing his eyes briefly.
They weren't going to make it.
For every demon he defeated, another three would take its place, and Tatsumi would repeat his deadly dance. For it was a dance of sorts, as Tatsumi barely had time to stop for a moment before he was moving off to save another soul. A majority of the denizens within Meifu had finally made it to the safety zones, but unfortunately for a great number, it was already too late. Blood stained the streets of Meifu, and Tatsumi averted his eyes from the numerous remains of those who had been unable to escape.
Tendrils of smoke rose to the sky everywhere Tatsumi looked, and the choking fumes clung to Tatsumi's lungs like a second skin. The fearful screams of the denizens of Meifu rang through the air, mingling with the guttural cries of triumph from the marauding demons. Word had apparently spread quickly among the invading demons, and Tatsumi was pleased to note that he was considered a threat. Yet it didn't stop them from trying to overcome the shadow master with sheer number. Tatsumi eyed his surroundings with caution as he strode purposefully down the empty rubble strewn street.
The evacuation plan developed by Konoe was a simple, but ingenious plan. Get the populace to designated areas, keep them open as long as possible to try to get stragglers, and then seal the zones. The places chosen were outfitted with devices that Watari had spent the better part of a year developing. Shield generators that would encompass each zone in a barrier that no demon could penetrate. The only fault of the plan was that no one save a few, had taken it seriously.
A majority of the citizens of Meifu, along with a number of departments had scoffed at the idea, claiming it was impossible for demons to breach the barrier surrounding Meifu. Tatsumi closed his eyes briefly as he remembered the hostility they had received at even the mention of such a situation to arise. The angels had been too proud of their abilities to even consider it, even though the entrance of Saagatanasu had been evidence that it could happen. It had been a special circumstance, but the danger had still been the same. The High Council chose not to help fund or augment the plan in any way, unwilling to participate in a joint effort with the Shokan division over 'a little scare'.
It was that arrogance that was now costing lives.
There had been no contact from the High Council, nor any indication of any assistance from above. It was as if Meifu had been abandoned by those who were sworn to protect it. Tatsumi clenched his fists in frustration and he narrowed his eyes. Where was Enma? Where was the High Council? Surely the invasion of Meifu warranted some sort of action . . . didn't it? The Shokan division was powerful, each one of its employees capable of great feats, but there were not enough of them. The demons outnumbered them by far, and Tatsumi feared for his co-workers. He moved quickly down the street, heading for the rendezvous point he and the Chief had agreed upon.
He wanted to be in so many places at once that Tatsumi felt like butter scraped too thin over toast. He had a responsibility to make sure that Konoe's plan was implemented smoothly, and it was one that Tatsumi could not shirk. Tatsumi believed in his co-workers abilities, but it did not stop him from wishing he could be alongside each and every one of them, to protect them. There was also Muraki to dwell upon, and Tatsumi hoped to find the doctor in his passage through Meifu. A shadow aside Tatsumi wavered dangerously as Tatsumi's emotions got the better of him. If he saw the doctor . . . Tatsumi narrowed his eyes. The trouble that Muraki had caused was unparalleled by almost anything, and the pain that Muraki had inflicted . . . Tatsumi lowered his head as the haunted look that had flashed in Tsuzuki's eyes came to mind.
It had been a shock to see Tsuzuki burst through the doors with Hisoka in his arms. The sight of Hisoka was like a physical blow to Tatsumi, and it had taken him a moment to take control of the situation. It had been even more devastating to see how much pain Tsuzuki was in, both physically and mentally. Tatsumi had known for a while now that he would never fill the gap within Tsuzuki's heart, especially after Tatsumi had broken his partnership with Tsuzuki so long ago. The pain of that betrayal had never left Tsuzuki, and Tatsumi knew that no matter how much things mended, that he would never have a chance. But Tsuzuki had found something . . . had found someone to fill the void in his heart, and Tatsumi knew that Tsuzuki would be okay, as long as 'he' stayed.
"You had better live Hisoka . . . for Tsuzuki's sake." Tatsumi muttered savagely under his breath as he turned the corner. Hisoka's appearance at the Shokan division had upturned more than just Tsuzuki's life. Somehow the moody teenager had managed to worm his way into everyone's heart, without even trying; without even realizing that he himself needed everyone in the Shokan division as much as they needed him. Tatsumi sighed as he eyed his surroundings carefully, ever alert for another attack. If Hisoka died, it would more than just Tsuzuki affected by the loss. Tatsumi frowned as he rethought his words. "Live Hisoka . . . for yourself, and for us."
The street before Tatsumi was littered with rubble, and from the looks of it, the surrounding buildings had been obliterated. The stench of blood and burnt flesh assaulted Tatsumi's nostrils, and he fought the urge to gag on the intensity of the sight. But it was the sight of a man kneeling in the middle of the disorder that stole Tatsumi's attention. The tendrils of shadow about him bled off and back into the surroundings as Tatsumi lost his concentration.
"Muraki . . ."
********************
Watari brushed a stray lock of hair out of his eyes and looked to the sky. He was afraid if he didn't look up, the tears shining in his eyes would escape. It had been difficult to herd the curious crowd of people away from the room where Hisoka's body lay. But Watari was unwilling to take any crap from the people, and perhaps it was the look in his eyes that had urged the crowd a respectful distance back. Watari wiped at his eyes savagely and looked to the room that Tsuzuki had entered.
His heart ached. Watari lowered his head and closed his eyes briefly, unwilling to let his tears fall. It had been too late for Hisoka, and the only thing he could do for the boy was to make death as painless as possible. He had known within moments of examining Hisoka, but he could not let Tsuzuki believe he couldn't do anything; even if it was the truth. A body is designed to house one soul and Watari believed that Hisoka had probably suffered much, without letting Tsuzuki know. Sometimes, no matter how hard one wishes and believes; no matter how strong love is - there are some things that are impossible. Watari shook his head in anger and frustration.
He wanted to believe love could conquer all.
The look upon Tsuzuki's face when Watari had delivered the news . . . it was heartrending. It was like a light had gone out in Tsuzuki's eyes, and it had taken every ounce of Watari's strength not to let the grief he felt spill in front of Tsuzuki. The man had his own hurts to deal with, and someone needed to be strong between the two of them. Watari took up that job with solemn grace.
When a heartbreaking cry of anguish began to sound from the room, it shook Watari to the core. A tear escaped his guard, and Watari let the small drop roll down his face. He needed to be strong now. As much as it hurt, it was nothing compared to the grief Tsuzuki felt. The milling crowd within the building was a buzz, and Watari looked to their curious faces with anger. He took a deep breath to calm his weary soul; it wasn't their fault, they didn't know any better.
There was still a job to be completed. Watari pulled his glasses out of his lab coat pocket and carefully put them on. It was hard to ignore the pained voice from the room where Hisoka lay, but Watari forced himself to do so. He would grieve later, when the crisis was over. He had a responsibility to the people who surrounded him, a duty to protect them. Watari put on his best business face considering the circumstances, and began to bark out orders to the nearest people about him. They responded sluggishly but at least they listened. Watari looked over his shoulder to where Tsuzuki and Hisoka were, and took another deep breath.
The shield generators were ungainly things, but to Watari they were works of art. He reached out and gently touched the gleaming metal, and looked out to the horizon for the signal. Smoke rose along the horizon, indicating the devastation wrecked upon Meifu. Watari wished it could be just a bad dream, a dream that he would wake up from with his notes plastered against his face, having woken up from a late night session of experiments. He flinched as the sounds of Tsuzuki's grief sounded through the building and his heart went out to his friend.
Anger filled Watari's heart as he looked to the destruction about them. All the grief, all the pain, it could be linked to a single person. Watari slammed his fist into the doorframe he was leaning against and let a little of the emotion he was holding in check escape. To think such thoughts about Him, it was on the edge of treason, but Watari couldn't help it. Muraki was an evil man, there was no doubt about that, but it was Enma who had sealed Tsuzuki's and Hisoka's fate. Someone higher up had set them all up like chess pieces, using the Shokan division to uncover a plot of sorts.
Watari was sure of it now; especially as he looked to the remains of the scuffle Tsuzuki had had with the demons just moments before. Like lambs to the slaughter, they followed their orders, even as they questioned, because that was what a Shinigami was supposed to do: Follow orders. Tsuzuki's heartbreaking cries broke Watari's thoughts, and Watari lowered his head wearily. He wasn't sure how much worse things could get.
Meifu was a mess, and demons roamed the land as if they owned it. There was no help from above from what Watari could tell, and that told Watari what he suspected. He raised his eyes to look to the setting sun upon the horizon, the raging fires about giving it a hellish look. Hisoka was dead . . . that in itself was devastating on its own. Watari's throat tightened as he recalled Hisoka's lifeless body. The boy had been moody, but he was one hell of a worker, and the changes he made to the Shokan division without even trying . . . Watari blinked back the wetness within his eyes.
They were on their own, and Watari seriously wondered what mattered more to the High Council and Enma than the potential destruction of Meifu? A flash of Trinity trying to force their way into the Shokan division jumped into Watari's mind, and he frowned. Surely the man hunt over Tsuzuki did not claim priority over the safety of their world?
Rubbing at his temples wearily, Watari turned to look to the people he had sworn to protect, and smiled slightly as they continued the jobs that he had placed before them. People didn't let fear overwhelm them when they had something to keep them occupied. He wished that 003 could be there with him, as the little owl was an unexpected but welcome source of comfort to the blonde scientist. But he had ordered her to stay with the GuShoShin twins, unwilling to let his little friend encounter danger. Watari sighed as he straightened up from his lean against the doorframe and searched the sky for Konoe's sign to proceed. The generators would remain silent until the last possible moment, to allow stragglers to get to the safety zones.
It was then that Watari noticed the silence. He looked to where Hisoka's body lay, as if his eyes could penetrate those walls. Tsuzuki had stopped crying. Yet the tension Watari felt refused to leave his body. The silence was perhaps just as heartbreaking as it had been to hear Tsuzuki's sobs. The cries had at least indicated that Tsuzuki was still alive, that he felt. Warily, Watari approached the small room, and he was a couple feet from the door when a disturbing sound began to emanate from the small confines.
It was laughter.
But it wasn't like anything Watari had heard before. There was little joy in the sound, and to Watari it sounded like a man at the end of his ropes. The murmur of the people around him jolted Watari to his senses, and he glared to the crowd once, and they hurriedly went back to their tasks. The laughter was getting louder, and the louder it got, the more worried Watari became. He stepped slowly to the door, not wanting to intrude on Tsuzuki's grief, but needing to make sure Tsuzuki was still with him. But he didn't get the chance.
The sound of wings flapping alerted Watari and he whirled about defensively. The demons just would not give up! He pulled out a pad of paper and a pencil from one of the numerous pockets within his lab coat and rushed towards the entrance of the building. In the setting sun three figures landed in the clearing before the safety zone, their wings spread out in a show of force. Watari stood defensively between the building and the newcomers, trying desperately to tune out the dismaying sound of Tsuzuki's laughter behind him. People were screaming, children were crying and Watari found strength buried deep within him.
It was hard to see the features of the intruders, but Watari knew that it didn't matter. No demon would step foot within the sanctuary of the building. He would defend the people and his grieving friend within.
"Hmph. Your 'Secretary' is not here." Watari physically started at that booming but familiar voice. "I was looking forward to pounding his smug face into the ground."
Watari let didn't let his guard down as he regarded the newcomers with anger. "There are more important things to deal with than fixing your wounded pride Trinity." He waved his hand to indicate the frightened people behind him. "Has Enma finally decided to lend us a hand in the saving of Meifu? Or is this just a social call?" He knew he should be more serious but Watari couldn't help but be sarcastic. More than half of Meifu was drenched in blood, and the other half was cowering in fear at the rampaging demons.
The Trinity leader gave a small sniff, as if smelling something foul, and Watari fought the urge to make another snappy comment. "We are on a mission 'Shinigami', we know Tsuzuki is here. There are others to help you out; we on the other hand are after something much more dangerous than demons." The angel said the word as if it was something foul, and he looked down his nose to Watari. "It is your job to defend Meifu; we don't have time to mop up after your sloppiness." The winged leader looked about the rubble strewn area with a look of disgust. "Where is Tsuzuki?"
Anger was too kind a word for what Watari felt, but he took a deep breath and gave the Trinity leader a glare that could kill. "More dangerous?" His voice was low and clipped, and Watari was sure that Trinity could hear the contempt in his voice. "Meifu is on the verge of collapse, souls are being DESTROYED, and all you guys care about is hunting down a harmless man? What the hell is Enma thinking, or is it the High Council this time?" A collective gasp came from behind Watari as he made the comment, but he kept his eyes upon the three angels before him. He was through with bending to outside forces.
"Harmless?" The Trinity leader raised his fist to emphasize his point. "You are protecting a ticking time bomb. High Council needs such danger confined. Your Tsuzuki could snap the world apart if he desired it." The anger in Trinity's eyes was vivid, but all Watari could see was contempt. The blonde angel shook his head. "Now get out of our way before we remove you forcibly!"
"High Council is mad if they believe that Tsuzuki would ever wish such a thing to happen! They are jumping at shadows, and you are blindly following their madness! Tsuzuki would rather die before willingly harming another, but you couldn't let that be!" Watari was raging now, but he didn't care. "Tsuzuki has just lost the most important person in the world to him . . . I won't let you take his grief away from him as well." Hisoka was dead because of the insanity about them and Tsuzuki was on the edge of madness. Everything was turned upside down, and Watari wanted to rage at the powers that be. He wanted to go back to being happy, but Watari wasn't sure if that would ever truly happen ever again. Watari raised his eyes to meet the Trinity leader's shocked blue ones and he pointed towards the destruction that lay about them. "Do not condemn a man for which you know NOTHING OF!"
The Trinity leader paused for a moment, as if taking in Watari's words seriously for perhaps the first time. "His partner is dead?" Watari nodded curtly to Trinity, unwilling to let his voice speak. The leader turned to his companions and Watari could see a concerned look pass between them. "The fail-safe is gone . . . he is out of contro -" Watari glared to the trio, his stance firm when the building behind him exploded with sudden force. Screams and chaos enveloped the building, and Watari choked on the billowing dust cloud that flew in every direction.
The roof of the building was gone, crumbled in response to Tsuzuki's raw power. Tsuzuki hung suspended in the air with Hisoka's limp form cradled in his arms. A wicked violet hued blackness swirled about Tsuzuki's form and Watari trembled slightly at the sight. Gleaming white feathers fell about the duo, giving the scene a surreal quality. Trinity's leader was bellowing out orders to his men behind Watari but the scientist maintained his gaze upon his friend.
Tsuzuki's eyes were vacant, and as the hovering man looked about casually, Watari could tell there was no indication that Tsuzuki knew who Watari was. Feathers flew about the air, strewn about by Tsuzuki's explosive appearance, and the sight of Tsuzuki floating there with Hisoka's body in his arms, was perhaps more frightening than the marauding demons themselves.
"Stupid Shinigami! Don't you realize that the boy was the only reason why Tsuzuki hadn't drowned in the darkness within himself?" The Trinity leader's voice was harsh, and Watari spared a quick glance to the angel. "It is unleashed now and there isn't anything to stop it!" Watari could hear the angry voice of the Trinity leader yelling to his companions behind him. "Attack in formation, don't give him a chance to wield his power!"
Watari noted that Tsuzuki looked to Trinity with an expression of a man being bothered by an insect. The gaze concerned Watari, and he turned about to try to stop Trinity from approaching Tsuzuki. The man was in the throes of grief, and he wasn't quite himself . . . at least that is what Watari hoped that was all that was wrong with Tsuzuki. The crackling web of darkness about Tsuzuki didn't look safe, and the blankness within Tsuzuki's normally expressive eyes frightened Watari. Trinity was just spouting nonsense to justify their actions, it couldn't be true. "No wait -"
Watari didn't get a chance to finish what he was going to say. If he had been looking to Tsuzuki at the time, Watari would have fallen to his knees in horror. The expressions on Trinity's face did tell Watari something though, and he flattened himself to the ground as a rolling wave of fire tinged with black and purple edges sailed over him to slam into Trinity. The ground before Watari exploded in a great flash of light, and bits of cement flew into the air. People were definitely screaming now, and from the sound of it, they were near trampling over themselves in their panic. Watari raised his eyes and looked above him to where Tsuzuki remained hovering. He didn't want to look to Trinity, fearful of what he would see there.
Tsuzuki was smiling a funny sort of smile as he regarded the dust cloud where Trinity had stood, and that shook Watari to the core. Tsuzuki turned his head to contemplate Watari who remained half lying upon the ground, frozen in Tsuzuki's gaze. Tsuzuki was calm, too calm for a man who had just raised his hand against Enma's elite. Watari pulled himself shakily to his feet, and was relieved to hear the curses of the Trinity leader behind him. He knew that Trinity was not so weak to succumb to a solitary blow. Tsuzuki tilted his head slightly as he stared at Watari, and Watari spread his arms in what he hoped was a peaceful gesture.
Tsuzuki frowned momentarily, and then looked back down to the body held within his arms. Watari could see pain flash across Tsuzuki's vacant stare for a second, but then it vanished back into a blank stare. The aura about Tsuzuki began to glow, the violet hues stark against the darkness. The feathers about the pair floated unnaturally in the air, and began to pulse a white light in time to the dark aura. Watari could see a tear fall down Tsuzuki's cheek, and he began to move forward to try to talk to Tsuzuki. A hand reached for Watari, pulling him backwards, and he looked over his shoulder to see the bloodied face of the Trinity leader. The angel was yelling something to Watari, but he couldn't hear it over the loud hum emanating from the glow surrounding Tsuzuki and Hisoka. It was probably the Trinity leader's actions that saved Watari from becoming another statistic.
The safety zone vaporized in a flash of light.
********************
He wasn't sure if he wanted to laugh, or to cry.
Muraki smiled a strange sort of smile, unable and unwilling to shed tears for the shell of a man that lay cradled within his arms. Oriya's hair spilled out like a fan, the strands interlaced with the slowly cooling blood that had flowed from the massive trauma inflicted upon Oriya's chest. Muraki smoothed a hand down the line of Oriya's chin, as if his touch could somehow open the forever closed eyes. The splattered remains of the foolish demons who had sought to terminate Muraki's life lay strewn about the area, but no trace of Kiiyue was to be seen. The treacherous demoness had fled screaming, her flesh burned terribly from the force of Muraki's attack. An attack prompted by the dagger plunging into Oriya's heart, and the emotions caught within what Muraki had thought to be his dead heart.
Blood drenched Muraki suit, the life of Oriya a deep red upon the pristine white cloth. The sight was not an alien thing to Muraki, as his path had claimed many lives and stained his hands permanently with blood. The fact that it was Oriya's blood made it all different though; it made it matter. Muraki shuddered slightly but continued to caress Oriya's face. "I warned you not to follow me . . . but you were always so stubborn." Muraki's voice was hushed he and trembled slightly, pulling Oriya's limp form close to him. The flood of emotions Muraki felt, it wasn't right. He shook his head and tried to clear his muddled brain. He was always in control: ALWAYS.
People he knew had died in the past, often by his own hand, and Muraki hadn't felt an ounce of remorse at their demise. Oriya was just another tool, another puppet for which Muraki pulled the strings . . . but even as Muraki thought those thoughts, he knew they were wrong. Even upon the darkness of his path, Muraki knew that he had struggled to keep the filth that covered him from ever staining Oriya, an action that betrayed the calm façade that Muraki tried to portray. Muraki pulled back and stared into Oriya's face.
Muraki had known of Oriya's feelings for him for a long time, and had even used the man's feelings to his advantage. For the path that Muraki had chose to walk; to turn around and love another person was unthinkable. So Muraki had closed off his heart, and ignored Oriya's words, despite the whimpers of his deadening heart. It was one thing to willingly stain his hands with blood, but it was another to drag Oriya down the same path. And after a time, Muraki had managed to fool himself into believing that he cared little for Oriya. That mask, that façade had protected him from hurt, lay shattered upon the ground along with Oriya's life force.
It started out very soft at first, a kind of deep rumble from within Muraki's chest. He closed his eyes and held Oriya's body close, his shoulders trembling with emotion. But it was not tears or cries that welled up from within – it was laughter. A strangled sort of sound, tinged with an almost unnatural calm. The noise slowly became louder and louder, and Muraki clutched Oriya's bloody form tightly to his own. "Oh Oriya . . ."
Love was an emotion unnatural to Muraki . . . so why did his heart hurt so?
Perhaps he was in shock, but Muraki could care less. He had meant what he had said to Kiiyue, he had business to attend to. Muraki had worked too hard, sacrificed too much to let Kiiyue and her master stop him now that his goal was in reach. To allow the death of a single man derail him from his desire. He looked down to the broken body of Oriya and a let a single tear fall down his face. Perhaps in a strange way, Muraki did care for Oriya, but it didn't matter now. How he felt would do nothing to bring Oriya back to life, but his death . . . that brought everything into focus for Muraki.
Muraki gently laid Oriya's body down upon the ground and stood up. Laughter still clawed its way out of his throat, an unnatural and disquieting noise but Muraki did not care. It was clear now to him, even clearer than when he had first struck his deal with the demons. Muraki looked across the horizon to a very distinct building. The demons needed his help, even if Kiiyue was so arrogant to believe that now that the barrier was broken the demons would win. Within that building laid his salvation, and perhaps Oriya's as well. Muraki looked down to his friend's broken shell.
It was that solitary thought that dug its claws into Muraki's heart and refused to let go. He had told Oriya that he sought death before Kiiyue and her minions had shown up. Muraki was sure that Oriya did not truly understand what he meant by that word. He did not seek his own death, far from it; but death itself. Muraki narrowed his eyes as he thought about it. Oriya had been a fool to follow Muraki, there was no doubt of that in Muraki's mind, but he had been a fool to believe that Oriya would willingly let him fall into the darkness without a fight; a foolish sort of bravery, but an action that spoke volumes to Muraki. He was in Meifu, the realm of the dead. The edges of his desire were within his grasp. Muraki looked down to Oriya's pale face and closed his eyes. Perhaps . . .
His train of thought was disrupted by the sound of footsteps behind him. Even in his grief, Muraki had kept a sense of wariness about him. He was an enemy deep within his enemy territory; to not be cautious would get him killed. Muraki took one last look to Oriya's face, and held him close to him. There was still an objective to achieve, and Oriya's death, would just be another challenge to hurtle; Saki's death wasn't going to stop Muraki, why would Oriya's?
"Muraki . . ."
********************
The sound of water brought Oriya back from the darkness, and he opened his eyes to soft, enveloping light. He stared at the crystalline rock formation above him, the soft muted colors dancing along the crystal surface beautiful in their motion. There was no pain, no demons, no dagger embedded deep within his chest . . . no Muraki. Oriya marveled at the lack of pain from what should have been bloody wounds in his chest and slowly got to his knees. He looked about his new surroundings, confused as to where he was, or what had happened. He could see the water now, a small underwater waterfall there amidst the breathtaking rock formations. Oriya touched his chest lightly and clenched his fist. Was he dead?
"It isn't what you expected . . . is it? Death I mean."
The voice echoed within the confines of the cave, and Oriya turned his head to see who had spoken to him. A beautiful winged woman stood upon the water's surface, her wrists and ankles encircled by silver chains. Oriya felt his breath hitch as her stunning green eyes focused upon him. Something about her was familiar, but Oriya could not pinpoint the reason why he felt it. An Angel . . . Oriya blinked at the woman and shook his head in agreement to her question. It should have surprised him more, to know that he was dead, but somehow it just brought peace to Oriya's troubled heart. "Are you here to judge me?" Oriya slowly got to his feet and looked down to his kimono, which was whole once again, instead of torn and soaked with his blood.
Kiiyue had been beautiful, but this woman . . . this angel . . . was beyond comprehension. It was a beauty beyond the skin, but as Oriya looked at the woman, he could feel an aura of sorrow welling from her, and it made his heart ache. The woman smiled sadly at Oriya's response, and then gazed back to the rippling waters at her feet. "I have little right to judge anyone . . . even if I am an angel." The woman raised her eyes to stare into Oriya's own, and Oriya felt as if he was drowning in their depths. "If anything, it is I who should be judged by you." She raised her shackled wrists and fingered the shining metal. "I have hurt so many with my actions . . ."
The sorrow held within the angel's voice was painful, and Oriya shook his head to dismiss her comment. "Surely what you have done cannot have been so bad." He looked to her face and another pang of recollection stuck him. "I know you . . ."
The woman shook her head, and Oriya watched as a solitary tear tracked down her cheek to fall into the crystal clear water she stood upon. "I met you in another form, but even so . . . you were kind to me." The woman smiled sadly and gently touched the silver metal that lay across her wrists. "I am Hikaru Takahashi."
"That cannot be . . . Hikaru was a child . . ." Oriya looked to the winged woman with disbelief. He looked the woman up and down, and although the form was an adult, Oriya could not dismiss the fact that the woman looked exactly like the little girl he had met so long ago. "Muraki said you were not human . . ."
A soft laughter rang across the cavern, a light, beautiful, but sad sound. Oriya looked to the woman who was Hikaru and felt as if his heart would break. "Aye, that is true, though I am sure Muraki did little to put me in a positive light . . . not that I deserve such kindness. I am not human, I am an angel; one of God's first." She was weeping openly now, and despite the shock Oriya felt, he felt her pain. "I am also the child Hikaru . . . that form was my most recent prison." Hikaru swept her hand across her form as if to introduce Oriya to herself. "The child was just an illusion . . . this is my true form."
It was more than shocking and Oriya reached out to slowly lower himself down onto a large rock formation, where he sat and tried to process what Hikaru told him. "If you are an angel . . . then why did you let Muraki use you? You are much more than a tool, or a puppet, especially if you are an angel!" Oriya raised his eyes to meet Hikaru's tear filled ones. "Muraki said you were bound together with Hisoka's soul . . . I saw . . . I saw the empty shell Hisoka became . . . that was you I saw wasn't it?" Oriya frowned as Hikaru nodded in response to Oriya's ramblings. "You have the power to change people's hearts . . . why did you let Muraki continue upon his dark path?"
"I cannot change a person . . . the only one with that kind of power is the individual themselves." Hikaru stared back to Oriya, whose anger was apparent upon his face. "The only person who has the power to save Muraki is standing here with me now." Oriya shook his head in disbelief at Hikaru's words. Hikaru lowered her head and slumped to her knees, her form still unnaturally above the water's surface. "Muraki used me, and I let him . . . because even angels are weak." Oriya watched as Hikaru pulled her knees close to her frame and her wings wrapped about her protectively.
"You lie . . ." Oriya clenched his fists as Hikaru's words echoed through his head. "I have no power." The memory of his recent death came to him. "Even as I breathed my last, I could not sway him from his path." The pain of that, of knowing that despite the emotion Muraki had displayed for him at the brink of death, Oriya had not been able to pull Muraki from the darkness; it was worse than actually dying itself. "I did not want to die." Oriya frowned and touched his chest, as if to check for the wounds that should have been there.
A tense silence filled the glowing cavern as two pain filled souls sought to come to terms with their pain. It was then that another though slammed into Oriya's already battered senses. "If I am dead, then why are you here?" With everything, it wasn't something that crossed his mind, but as Oriya thought about it, the more it confused him. "Your soul is bound to the Shinigami Hisoka . . . how can you be here if -" Oriya let his words trail off as the implications of Hikaru's presence there with him crystallized. When Hikaru's tear-filled eyes lifted to meet Oriya's own, he knew the truth. "Hisoka is dead . . . isn't he?"
Hikaru shook her head. "I don't know." She swept her hand to indicate the glowing cavern that surrounded the two of them. "This is where souls await judgment; usually alone. The fact that you and I are together instead of alone is strange enough in itself." Oriya watched as Hikaru shuddered. "My last sight before darkness claimed me was the demon Chymos holding Hisoka's dying form in his raised hands." Oriya frowned as he listened to Hikaru's words. "If Hisoka is dead, he should be here as well . . . but he isn't." A strangled sob escaped Hikaru's throat, and the anger Oriya felt toward the angel diminished a little.
He had only interacted with the Shinigami Hisoka twice, but both encounters had left Oriya changed. He listened as Hikaru told her version of events, of the ties that bound an angel, a Shinigami, and a demon together. She spoke of Muraki and his hand in circumstances along with the demons. The words did little to clear the confusion in Oriya's head, but did increase the pain and sorrow he felt. The cavern echoed with the halting words and broken sobs, and Oriya felt as if his heart would burst.
Silence filled the cavern once again and Oriya closed his eyes and listened to the waterfall that splashed behind Hikaru's form. "Well . . ." Oriya opened his eyes to contemplate the rippling colors racing through the rocky ceiling above him. "We can do nothing to change things now can we? Especially from here." Silence greeted his words but Oriya knew that Hikaru was listening. The sound of the water was soothing, and Oriya wished he could go back to the darkness that had claimed him before. It was painful to recall things, especially like this. Oriya tried to change the subject.
"What was your crime Hikaru? You speak of recent things, of Muraki and Hisoka, but there must have been a reason for you to be trapped on earth away from Heaven." Oriya turned his head to look to Hikaru, who looked back at Oriya with wide eyes. "What was so terrible that it was necessary to punish you?"
"I loved."
"What?"
"As an angel, we are supposed to love equally, as God Himself must." Oriya watched as Hikaru slowly climbed to her feet and she began to pace across the surface of the water, her feet dry despite the surface they walked upon. "But I wanted more, I sought a selfish desire." A bitter note filled her voice as she spoke, and Oriya watched Hikaru's random path across the water's surface. "You are lucky to be mortal . . . you are not punished for wanting to love a single person, and be loved back."
Oriya frowned. "I don't understand . . . to love is not a crime." He got to his feet and stood at the waters edge.
Hikaru raised her shackled wrists once again and shook the silver chains so they clinked. "It is, if the one you love is someone who cannot afford to have such selfish desires." She spread her wings to their full length and Oriya was once again reminded that despite the pain Hikaru felt, she was an Angel. "In the end I was granted mercy, I was sent to ChiJou, instead of the judgment I should have received. But it was not mercy to be trapped in the souls of humans, to see their love blossom and die, knowing that my love was considered something foul." Hikaru stared into Oriya's eyes, and Oriya felt as if he would be devoured by the emerald orbs. "He was just as guilty as I was, but He was not expendable, as I am."
"My crime . . . the action that was considered so foul . . ." Hikaru shook her head and Oriya saw that her vivid green eyes were once again filled with tears. "Is that I loved Enma, and He loved me back. We were lovers."
********************
"Do you understand the words coming out of my mouth?" Konoe yelled loudly as he urged the terrified people before him to run. From the corner of his eye Konoe could see the altered form of Terazuma ferociously attacking the oncoming demons. Wakaba stood at the entrance of the building, beckoning for those still beyond the safety zone to hurry. "MOVE, MOVE, MOVE!!"
Konoe's voice was hoarse from yelling, but he didn't care. The people were moving too slow, becoming easy targets for the wave of demons that continued to move forward. They were in the heart of the residential area, where the majority of Meifu's population resided, and the place the demons struck in full force. Konoe wiped his brow savagely and pulled yet another fuda out of his rapidly dwindling supply. They would have to signal soon for the shield generators to be fired up, even if there were stragglers. A demon whipped its barbed tail at Konoe's head, and he grunted as he dropped to the ground to avoid the deadly appendage.
Terazuma sailed over Konoe's head, tackling the offending demon to the ground. The fury of attacks both Terazuma and the demon laid upon one another was startling, and Konoe feared for his companion's safety. Rushing to his feet, Konoe pulled out a handful of fudas and began to cast them off in rapid succession. The swarm of demons backed off for a moment as the fury of Konoe's spells descended upon them in haste. There were too many demons, and not enough Shinigami. Konoe shook his head and turned to Wakaba who looked to her chief with fear in her eyes.
Konoe turned to urge Terazuma toward the safety zone when a deafening cry filled the air and Konoe looked up to the skies in dismay. The source of the cry was not what Konoe expected, and he almost fell to the ground in shock. The commanding form of SohRyu filled the sky, the writhing dragon an imposing sight on even good days. The demons shrieked in dismay at the new arrival, and Konoe looked to the leader of the Shikigami with a little trepidation. The last time Shikigami had run loose in Meifu, Tsuzuki had been possessed by Saagatanasu; and the presence of the Shikigami had not been a comforting thing. Along the horizon Konoe could see the swooping form of Suzaku chasing a flock of winged demons out of the sky.
Was the presence of Tsuzuki's Shikigami a good thing or a bad thing?
********************
*Wake up little one.*
The voice was quiet but persistent, and Hisoka found that the tendrils of darkness that ensnared him began to loosen. He felt as if he was drowning, and perhaps he was, there in a sea of darkness. The comforting voice spoke again, and Hisoka struggled to awaken from the darkness he found himself trapped in. *You are almost there, keep going.* The darkness about him seemed to shudder, and like a pane of glass, shattered about Hisoka, letting in a soft glowing light and the shards of darkness melted.
The sudden appearance of light when he had been surrounded by suffocating darkness was a balm to Hisoka, and he gulped in air like that of a drowning man. Comforting warmth enveloped him and Hisoka opened his eyes to find wide blue eyes staring down at him. *Welcome back Hisoka.* Hisoka blinked rapidly, and he touched the soft furry side that he was presently leaning against. Byakko.
A soft laugh, tinged with worry ran through his mind and Hisoka felt Byakko's tail loop around to enclose him in a soft warm embrace. *Thank goodness we weren't too late.* Byakko's tone was light, but Hisoka could sense an edge of seriousness in the god's words. *What was Enma thinking to do such a rash thing?* The reality of what had happened to him crashed into Hisoka like a tidal wave and he pushed against Byakko's side to look about him frantically. Hikaru and Chymos were no where to be seen. There was only he and Byakko in what seemed like a spotlight of light. Darkness pressed in on all sides, just beyond the edges of Byakko's physical body, and Hisoka knew that the darkness would claim him once again if he gave it a chance.
"I hurt . . . my heart hurts . . ." Hisoka shook his head and looked up to the Tiger god in confusion. He did not pull away from the side of Byakko, and he knew that if he tried, the Tiger would just push him back into the furry nest. "I know I am safe here . . . but I feel as if I am going to fly apart at the seams . . ." The smothering darkness was gone, but Hisoka still felt as if he would burst from anguish. Why did his heart hurt so? "Am I dead?"
Byakko frowned, or at least to Hisoka it seemed as if the Tiger did, and Byakko leaned his head down close to touch Hisoka's forehead with his own. *Well your soul is separated from your body . . . so if that is death . . . than yes you are dead.* Byakko lifted his head to look to the sky. *You should have seen SohRyu Hisoka, he is so angry at Enma right now. To extinguish your candle like that . . . the soul is a delicate thing at best . . . and yours is very weak right now. SohRyu was almost too late to save you, but he did, and he left you in my care while he and the others head to Meifu to . . . deal with 'things'* Hisoka took in Byakko's words in shock. *Death to a Shinigami is not the same as most Hisoka . . . your soul was about to fade – not head to judgment, but just disappear.*
"He had just cause." Hisoka frowned and lowered his head. "I am just one person, one soul among many. If my death will be able to save others, isn't it Enma's duty to take my life? Enma's responsibility lies with the well-being of Meifu and ChiJou; not with a single soul."
*A crowd is made up of individuals . . . or did you forget that?* Byakko's mental voice was quiet but chiding. *Do not dismiss your existence so easily Hisoka. You matter . . . just as each individual person matters. Every soul, every life is important, no matter how small. Enma of all beings should recognize that.* Byakko lowered his head down to touch Hisoka's forehead once again. *To take a life, even in the defense of others, isn't something to be done lightly, or something that can be easily reversed as Enma wishes to do with you. It has been so long since He has actually sentenced a soul to annihilation – He is acting very reckless. You matter to my master, you are his happiness. The loss of you . . . it tears Tsuzuki apart even now.*
Hisoka pulled his head away from Byakko's, the pain in his heart leaping to the forefront. With Byakko's words, Hisoka knew what that pain was and as he concentrated on it, Hisoka knew that it was Tsuzuki. "Where is he?! I have to go to him!" Hisoka struggled against Byakko's gentle grip, but found himself quickly exhausted from the efforts. Hisoka panted as stars filled his vision, and Byakko's tail curled about Hisoka protectively. His body, or soul as he was now, was too weak, and Hisoka railed at that weakness mentally. "What is wrong with me? Why can't I stand?"
*Your very essence was nearly destroyed Hisoka . . . and your soul has sustained a great deal of stress and damage from the last couple of days, let alone Enma's drastic decision.* Hisoka pushed weakly at Byakko's side, but the Tiger god refused to let Hisoka go. *Stop it Hisoka! As it is the only reason you are even here as you are now is because you are joined to my life force! If you part from my side, you will fade in an instant!*
Hisoka stopped struggling as Byakko's desperate words penetrated the fear within Hisoka's heart. He slumped against Byakko's side weakly and Hisoka leaned face-first into the soft fur. "Why did you save me then?" Hisoka's voice was muffled as he spoke into Byakko's side, but he knew that the Tiger god could hear him just fine. Tears began to fill Hisoka's eyes as he spoke, but he didn't care. "What was the point if I cannot go to Tsuzuki when he needs me?" Hisoka pounded his fists weakly into Byakko's side, not to cause damage, but to release the pent up frustration he felt. He voice wobbled with emotion, but Hisoka did not care. He had spent most of his life and a great deal of his death in denial of what he felt of what he desired. Hisoka was damned if he would deny what he felt now. "I need him Byakko . . . just as he needs me . . ."
*I know Hisoka . . . I KNOW.* Byakko curled his form about Hisoka comfortingly as the young Shinigami's strength left him. *I can feel his pain . . . just like you can.*
The pain his heart felt merged with the lingering anguish that was Tsuzuki's and Hisoka felt as if he would shatter. How he felt Tsuzuki's pain was not a mystery to Hisoka, he had always been receptive to his partner's emotions. "Oh God . . . he hurts . . . he hurts so much . . ." Hisoka mentally tuned into the thread that was Tsuzuki which was linked to his heart, and clung to it with all his being; as if somehow it could bring comfort to Tsuzuki who suffered somewhere far away from him. His empathy was both a gift and a curse, as it let Hisoka feel the one he loved, but did nothing to let him comfort Tsuzuki. "Please Byakko . . . take me to him . . . I don't care how much it hurts me . . . I need to be by his side."
*I know you want to go to him . . . but you can't just yet. You will not survive the distance we must travel to get to him in your state.* Byakko shook his head and Hisoka could see tears in the tiger's eyes. *Tsuzuki is my master and my friend . . . I would do almost anything for him, but I will not endanger you or him further by moving you from this spot until you are strong enough. SohRyu and others have gone to try to limit the damage he does to Meifu in his grief and to keep him safe. He needs you Hisoka . . . he needs you by his side so badly . . . and I think . . . that you need him as well.*
Hisoka wept now, his tears hot against his cheeks as he clung to Byakko tightly. He past self would have been ashamed at the weakness he displayed, but Hisoka did not care anymore. What was the point of clinging to that mask when his heart lay broken before him? "I know . . . I know you are right. But it doesn't ease the pain within me Byakko." Byakko's head pressed lightly against Hisoka's weeping form, and Hisoka knew that the shikigami shared his pain. "What can I do to speed things up?"
*Just stay here with me until I say we can move.*
Hisoka flung his arms tight around Byakko's neck and pressed his face against the tiger god's soft fur. It hurt so much, knowing he could ease Tsuzuki's suffering, but unable to reach him as he was. He felt like a child clinging to a teddy bear, but for the first time in what seemed like forever, that knowledge did not shame Hisoka in the slightest. The two of them lay in the pool of light, drawing strength in more ways than one from one another.
********************
Author's Notes:
Ahem. I guess I should apologize for the severe lateness of this chapter. The previous chapter had been very difficult to write, and I am proud of it. But as I went to start up this chapter, I suddenly realized that I had seemingly negated almost half of my usual P.O.V.'s. That combined with a sudden attack of writer's block left me in a precarious position. I have an outline for this story, I always have, but as I have written, some things have changed. Those changes went and bit me in the proverbial butt.
As for the varying points of view, I decided I wanted to look into multiple characters, what they thought. I deemed it important, more so than progressing actual action. Plot does develop, and things are finally being revealed, so I hope you don't jump on me for not really resolving any actual problems – such as Oriya being dead, or Hisoka.
I realize that characters are OOC . . . I tried to keep Muraki as a rat bastard, and while turning him into a weeping mess would be completely wrong, so to was keeping him arrogant and haughty, especially in light of recent events. Oriya is his heart, and now his heart is dead. There is also Hisoka and his emotional outburst. Well . . . can't really blame the guy, I mean, Hisoka has finally found someone to love and love him back; and now he is trapped away from Tsuzuki. The fact that it isn't permanent or the fact that he is not alone doesn't matter much to Hisoka. To be torn away from his heart throws all those considerations out the window so to speak.
There is also Hikaru . . . I hope I haven't completely thrown you for a loop with her. In essence, her true form is that which Oriya sees. She is a grown up, not a child as the child version of herself was just her current form of prison. She both is, and isn't the child Hikaru. As to whether the actual child Hikaru, the soul, did exist . . . well . . . yes she did, but the Angel Hikaru became strong enough to take control of the body.
Her crime was to love Enma, and Enma's crime was to love her back just as strongly. A God cannot devote His heart to a single person like that, so in essence, Hikaru's actions were the greatest treason. His love sought to preserve her from destruction, but His choice to trap her in an endless loop of life, a passenger along for the ride with each human soul she was reborn with; was an infinitely worse punishment. To be reminded of what one had, and lost, it would drive almost anyone to be a little unbalanced. She just wanted to confront Enma once again, to go home. Whether that means love, or just oblivion – we will see.
I know I had Hikaru state that they were Enma's children – and I hope no one took her love for Enma as some sort of incest or something. I mean, if you really think about it, we are ALL related to one another . . . God may have 'created' the angels, but he is not their 'father' . . . does that make any sense at all? I know I am putting a lot into an original character, but I deemed it necessary to give Muraki the foothold he needed to get himself and the demons into Meifu; the added chaos to push things to the edge so to speak. I want to stick to the main characters that make up the Yami no Matsuei universe, but I cannot deny the fact that sometimes there needs to be an 'outer force' to push plot.
So . . . this is it, the next chapter. I know I said something about this being the last chapter . . . but well . . . I lied. I don't anticipate this story being much more longer . . . I hope. So anyways, please forgive me for the lateness of this chapter. I will strive to not take so long for the next chapter.
Reviews and comments on my story thus far would be most appreciated. As a wanna be author, it is encouraging to hear from those who read one's work. So even if you have nothing to say other than 'Good job!' or 'You Suck!' I would still like to hear from you. Those who have reviewed already, I want to thank you for your input! It really does encourage me and helps me get these chapters out.
Also I just have to thank Matsushita for creating such wonderful characters! Humor, darkness, romance - all the fun stuff rolled into one! Thank you!