Hiya! So what did y'all think about my last chapter? Hey, I'm tired
of trying to find ways of advertising my story, so I would greatly
appreciate it if you would all get as many of your friends as possible to
read this. You reviewers seem to be slacking off lately, and believe me
those that are know who they are, and I'm not targeting this at any of my
good pals like Spyrogue or Tyedye/rin etc. All righty then! Let's get
this party started!
Chapter 15,
Tough Girl
Author: Ok, Sora is the tough girl on the block,
Sora: Yes, we've established that.
Author: Stop interrupting me!! Anyway, she's the alpha; you know the leader in her own mind.
Sora: Hey, you make it sound like a bad thing!
Author: Grrrrr, she also apparently thinks she can do everything on her own. But what happens when she receives more help from Ian, and even though she needed it, doesn't have a positive reaction towards it?
Sora: He keeps getting in my way, and I'm telling you I don't need him to help me!
Author: Hush! Well, let's just say her pride is harder for her to swallow, and she isn't the best at showing gratitude.
Sora: I'll show you some gratitude in a minute if you don't watch your mouth. You most certainly aren't making me look too kind in front of the readers.
Author: Well, you just watch yourself, because I'm in control of this and what I say goes!
Sora: NOOOOOOO!
Author: YES, now on with the story.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Everyone had managed to get up and now realized what had just happened. The girls looked away and the boys stared in disgust as the Shrikans, coated and dripping with the blood of their opponents, ripped and tore away at the flesh of their defeated enemies. Sora just looked on and smiled that demonic smile of hers and moved amongst the triumphant predators.
Kurama: And what's to keep them from going bloodthirsty and doing that to us?
Sora: Me, of course, and besides they've always been bloodthirsty they just usually aren't this temperamental!
Hiei: How comforting.
Sora: They saved your butts, what are you talking about, besides, how would you like it if you were woken up by a gun shot this early in the morning?
Sano: We could've taken on those guys.
Sora: With what, your drool?
Kuwabara: I res, resan,
Kurama: Resent?
Kuwabara: Yeah! I resent that remark.
Sora: Well, the truth hurts kid, cause you guys were sleeping like logs until I started shooting.
Ian: I'm surprised they woke up, they should be used to such ruckus from you this early in the morning by now!
Sora: Are you aware of the fact that I still have guns in my hands, Rion?
Ian: (he spoke with a cocky air) Yes, and I know you won't shoot me,
Sora: (smirking) I hope you don't mean that.
She lifted one of the guns playfully as though ready to shoot at him, but before she could even raise the weapon Ian had somehow managed to dodge around her and appear behind her! Resting his head coolly on her shoulder and taking both of her hands so that she was restrained he whispered in her ear,
Ian: Sure I do.
Sora: (kicking behind her and hitting him in a very tender spot) Watch yourself boy! Never approach a woman this early in the morning when she's armed, especially if that woman is me!
The others watched interestedly for a moment, but then turned to getting themselves properly dressed. They moved on quickly, trying to get as far away from the Shrikans' blood fest as possible. Sora had figured that Coronsoe must be nearby, and that it would be all right if they moved to a new area. Just as they had entered the small clearing where the pool was a voice boomed out from the surrounding brush.
Coronsoe: Hello children, enjoy a nice sleep?
Sora: We'll enjoy an even better one once we know that you're dead and gone to hell!
Coronsoe: Tsk, tsk, such naughty language for such a pretty little thing.
Sora: Cut the crap, what do you want now?
Coronsoe: Revenge darling, revenge!
And with that several ninjas leapt out of the shadows. There were quite a few of them, and by the way they held their stances you could tell they were quite well trained. The Shrikans had rejoined the group, and Ripfang eagerly stepped forward.
Ripfang: Let me take a crack at these wimps!
He charged forward so fast that the ninjas didn't have time to move, and just as Ripfang leapt, opening his mouth to tear off one of their heads something hit him in the shoulder in mid air! Whatever it was, it was just as big as him, and the two crashed to the ground, skidding to a halt in the dirt. Ripfang scrambled to his feet, and his jaw dropped so fast it felt like it was going to just fall off. There in front of him stood another Shrikan! Or at least something like a Shrikan. It was only a few centimeters shorter than him and had lightning bolt shaped streaks of electrifying yellow and sapphire blue all over its body. And there was one dark red stripe running down its spine from the tip of its nose to its tail, the red stripe matched its eyes. Everyone just stared on at the sight in front of them.
Coronsoe: Hahahahaha, you see this female is the only successful weapon I've been able to create, but she's nowhere near as strong as your Shrikans and she hasn't got any special mutations that make her any more dangerous. I was able to get enough information from your aunt before she died to get this far, but I need your help to make her just as good as yours! I'm surprised she's even alive, every Shrikan I make dies somehow, but this one managed to survive.
Sora: You monster! You treat her like some toy, and you've sent her to fight in a battle that you know she can't win.
Coronsoe: Why should I care, I can always try and make more, besides, without a male I can't breed her anyway. Now go you little pest and try and make yourself useful. With that she lunged at Ripfang, snarling ferociously. Ripfang didn't want to hurt her, but he couldn't just let her chase him about like this so he had no choice. He ran straight at one of the trees and ran straight up it, and pushed off of the trunk doing a back flip and landing on the ground behind her. She turned just in time to see the triple headed mace on Ripfang's tail fly at her. THUD! A sickening sound rang out around the glade and everyone watched as the limp form flew over their heads and crashed through several trees before landing in a small heap on the ground.
Ripfang: I didn't mean to hit her that hard!
Sora: Oh my god! Coronsoe you will pay for that.
Coronsoe: Well don't look at me, it's not like I was the one that knocked her brains out!
And with that Sora leapt at the man and caught him by surprise. Before anyone could get to her she had her hands around his throat and was throttling him senseless. But she had left her weapons on the ground, and didn't see one of the ninjas unsheathe a small dagger and prepare to throw it at her. The others were also preoccupied as other warriors came at them. But of course no one was after the little traitor, Ian. He saw the man prepare to attack Sora and remembered his own knife. He leapt behind Sora just in time to deflect the blade that would've severed her spine. But Sora's moment of triumph was cut short as Ian restrained her from killing the man.
Sora: What are you doing? Let me kill him!
Ian: (quickly trying to think of an excuse) Are you nuts, watch out those guys are going to throw some more knives!
He forced her head down as several blades flew at them. And before anyone could take another step the ninjas gathered up their unconscious leader and were gone into the shadows! Sora jumped to her feet and ran to the spot where the young raptor had fallen, shouting over her shoulder as she went.
Sora: I'll deal with you later Ian!
The others followed her to the spot, some of them not quite sure that they wanted to see the carnage. Sure enough there she was, lying amongst some ferns, blood dripping from her mouth.
Sora: (kneeling beside her) Oh my god, she's still breathing! Quick someone go get my bags, we need to help her fast.
But Ripfang was already arriving with them and crouched beside Sora to help her as best he could. The others watched in fascination, and Ian took advantage of the moment to hurry off and see Coronsoe.
Coronsoe was already awake again when Ian reached them.
Coronsoe: What took you; she could've killed me!
Ian: I'm sorry boss, but it's not like I could get to you any faster, are you all right?
Coronsoe: I'm fine, now here's the next location, hide somewhere for the others to find this time. That way you won't look so suspicious. Oh, and good work.
Ian: Huh? What do you mean?
Coronsoe: (his voice was dangerous, almost as if he didn't trust Ian) I saw that little moment you shared with the girl, hopefully she trusts you now right?
Ian: Yeah, whatever.
Coronsoe: I still can't help but laugh at that pathetic little animal! Did you see how far she flew!?!
Ian: (now he was being sarcastic) Yeah boss, I just love to see helpless little animals get their heads blown off.
Coronsoe: What are you talking about; I thought that was rather funny.
Ian: (now thoroughly disgusted) I have to get back, see you later.
Coronsoe was too weak to yell at him for speaking to him in that tone. Ian had arrived back at camp and had hidden the scrap of paper in one of the girl's bags. He then ran to check on the others and see if they had made any progress with the young animal.
Ian: ** I helped raise that Shrikan! I can't believe he just let that happen to her. Why did Coronsoe have to hurt her? Oh no, was he trying to warn me? Maybe he thinks I'm being disloyal and was reminding me that I need to watch how I interact with Sora! I need to be extra careful from now on. **
He came upon the quite scene. The others were now lounging about, and Sora had moved the little Shrikan into her tent.
Ian: (trying to keep his voice from shaking) How is she?
Sora: She's weak, but still hanging on, the blow only clipped her above the eyebrow, so I don't think there will be any permanent brain damage, but she lost a lot of blood.
Ian: I've seen her before; back when I worked for Coronsoe we called her Naomi.
Sora: Hah, that suites her.
Ripfang: What does, Naomi, mean?
Sora and Ian: Above all beauty.
Ripfang: (he stared at her) That is a good name for her.
Sora and Ian looked at each other. And then Razor popped out of nowhere.
Razor: Hey! Look what I just figured out!
He had found that by flexing certain muscles he could now control his spikes. He could make them lay flat like feathers and he could extend them too. But then he noticed the way his brother was looking at Naomi.
Razor: Aw, does widdle Ripfang have a widdle cwush on someone?
Ripfang: Shut up!
And with that he bounded after his brother.
Sora: I'm going to go get some water.
Before she left she patted Naomi on the shoulder and whispered into her ear.
Sora: Hang in there tough girl! You're amongst friends now, so come on back to us.
It was getting late and Sora sat by the pool and was watching her reflection. Ian walked up behind her.
Ian: The girls found our next clue, here; you should take a look at it. Seems as though Coronsoe is tiring of this little war you're fighting.
Sora quickly read the note, a smile slowly coming over her face.
Dear Foes,
I'm tired of waiting forever for you to make it to my final trial. So as of now you only have 3 more tests, an I'll need you to report to the Spirit world for our next fight, meet me at the same place as where the last dark tournament took place.
Sora: All right, awesome, that's a little less work for us.
Ian: Yeah, and I won't have to save your butt as much either!
Sora: Excuse me!?!? Ian: I had to save you twice from certain death today!
Sora: Ha! Dream on buddy, I don't need help from anyone, especially not you!
Ian: Come on! Several knives almost hit you today.
Sora: And I would've lived, you should know that by now!
Ian: Sorry, geese, I try to help you and this is the thanks I get.
Sora: I don't need help from anyone, thank you very much.
Ian: You know what your problem is? You just can't admit that you aren't perfect!
Sora: What?
Ian: You heard me! You think you can save the world or something all by yourself, and you're just too damn arrogant to realize that you're still a mortal being!
Sora: How dare you judge me like that! I should knock you into next week.
Ian: That's another thing! You're all talk, and as long as you've got those little guns with you, you act like you're queen of the world.
Sora: (tossing the guns away on the ground) All right then let's go! Come on, we'll see how tough you are when I'm done with you.
Ian: Stop kidding yourself! I've got you all figured out, you're like all those other people out there who think they're all that. You had a tough life growing up so now you've built your own little world somewhere in that empty head of yours! And since you're so afraid of other people getting too close to you, you always either push those who want to help you away or you try and beat them to the punch. And you say you don't want people to get close to you because you don't want them getting hurt, but you're really afraid of them hurting you!
Sora just stared at him, and for once she was actually stunned.
Sora: (she was quaking with rage and spoke through clenched teeth) You have no idea what you're talking about, and that's not the way I am at all! How dare you just waltz up here and get into my face, claiming that you know my life when you don't know the first thing about me. And it'll be a cold day in hell the day you ever do understand the first thing about me!
And with that she stalked off, but Ian had seen the look in her eyes as she spoke to him, and he knew he'd hurt her bad. Never had she looked at him that way before, and he really wished he hadn't been so hard on her. Picking up her guns he slowly followed her over to the other side of the pool. She was sitting on an outcrop of rock; her knees were drawn up to her chest and her head rested on them. Ian could just barely make out her features in the moonlight, and her face was shinning as tears ran down her cheeks. He tossed the guns over to her, but she didn't even look at them, she only stared at the water.
Ian: ** Oh man, what've I done, I really let my temper get the best of me this time! **
He slowly approached her,
Ian: Sora? (his voice was gentle, almost sad) Listen, I'm really sorry.
She didn't even bother to look at him, and we all know that the normal Sora would've thrown him off of the cliff by now.
Ian: ** Oh god I think I killed her. **
He placed his hand on her shoulder, but pulled it away quickly when she inhaled sharply and recoiled from his touch.
Ian: (sitting beside her) Did you hear me? I'm sorry for what I said before, please don't be sad.
Sora: (looking away from him, and mumbling) I'm not sad because of what you said, I'm sad because you said it.
Ian: Huh? Sorry, but that makes no sense to me.
Sora: I know a lot of people think of me the same way you do, but they don't tell me that they do, and I'm ok with that. I don't care what anyone says or thinks about me, but it really hurts when they actually tell me what they think about me and they really have no idea who I even am. People always judge me before they even get a chance to know me. You're obviously the same way.
Ian: No, no! I'm sorry ok; I just got out of control.
Sora: I get that way too, but you don't see me telling you that I know you're life.
Ian: Can I take back what I said?
Sora: Yes, but that doesn't mean I'll ever forget that you said it.
Then he did another thing that shocked Sora even more. Turning towards her, he scooped her up and placed her on his lap, holding her close to him. Her head rested against his chest, and her eyes went wide when she realized what was happening. His one arm rested lightly around her shoulders, his other around her waist. Sora quickly placed her hands on his chest to push away from him, but it was no use.
Sora: What are you doing!?!?!?!?!?!
Ian: If I can't take back what I said then I'll just have to say something else. I'm sorry that I hurt you, and if you give me another chance I promise you that it'll be the last thing that ever hurts you.
Now she had chills running up and down her spine, but she could feel her face growing hotter by the moment. But the wind was picking up and so she pressed closer to him for warmth. She began to relax, and the sound of his heart made her drowsy.
Sora: That's an awfully big promise to make.
Ian: I think I can keep it.
Sora: (yawning) Ok.
He picked her up and took her to her tent, she was already asleep. After placing a blanket over her he quickly placed a delicate kiss on her forehead and turned to leave.
Sora: (whispering gently) Wait, don't go...
Ian: I'll see you in the morning.
But he could hear her move behind him and as he turned to face her she placed her arms about his neck and pulled herself close to him. He returned the embrace, and she looked up at him. They exchanged another small kiss before he picked her up and placed her back in her bed and left.
BUT!! It appears they weren't the only ones sharing a cute lil' moment! DUN DUN DUN!! Earlier that day.
Kaoru: Do you think that little Shrikan will be all right? Her wound was pretty bad.
Kenshin: To tell you the truth, I think she's going to pull through well enough, that I do.
Kaoru: I hope she does. Ugh, I still can't forget this morning though, can you believe how terrible those Shrikans were, and they were eating people!
Kenshin: (taking her hand) I'm sorry you had to see that, that I am. But at least those bad men didn't get to us first!
Kaoru: Sometimes I'm afraid that something like that will happen. I mean, I don't know what I'd do if I ever lost you or even Sano and Yahiko.
Kenshin: Well, I must thank you for your concern, but I promise that I'll always do my best to make sure that nothing like that ever happens.
Kaoru: Kenshin you truly are a wondrous person!
Kenshin: (rubbing the back of his head nervously) Uh, well, thanks I guess.
Kaoru looked at him for a moment, and for a split second they were mesmerized by one another. Their faces were so close,
Sano: (from behind a tree) Hahahahahaha! Go Kenshin!
Kaoru: You idiot rooster head!! Just wait till I get my hands on you!
She chucked her shoe at Sano, but missed and it smacked Keiko in the head! She got all swirly eyed, and it just so happened that Yusuke was right there, and he caught her as she fell backwards.
Yusuke: Aaah! Um, Keiko, are you all right?
She began to come around, and quickly jumped up, quite flustered and Yusuke rolled his eyes as she began berating him about how to properly treat a lady.
Rose was sitting up in a tree, all of these previous events she had already seen in her visions, but it was her latest one that disturbed her. She could see two paths, and Sora standing between them, she had to choose which way to go. One led to Ian, but that path was overgrown with treacherous vegetation and traps, and all around him swirled great mists of darkness and shadow! But in his hands he held a small light, pure and fiery, and the shadows seemed to recoil from it. The other path was clear and sunny, but no one stood at its end. Faintly in the distance Rose could make out Sora's house, but it was empty, and not even Keela or Whiplash stood waiting there for their beloved master's return.
Rose: ** What can all of this mean? From what I can tell, if Sora falls for that boy, only disaster and death await her, but that light, it's small, yet it stands for happiness. And should she stay away from him, her future seems clear, yet lonely, and full of stressful sadness. Who is it that brings death though, and who is it that must die in order for Sora's happiness to combat the darkness? I see good things for Ripfang, his hardships have only just begun though, I can see him standing upon a mountain, he will be triumphant in the end, but not without bearing great sadness. Everyone is marked by some sadness, but it will all be ok, because I can see them standing together in the end. **
Sora: (she approached the thoughtful raptor, and yes this was before she and Ian had talked that night) What is it that you see little flower?
Rose: I can't tell you remember? But I will say this, be wary, for it seems as though death is going to start bidding a bit higher than usual. Death and sorrow lie in wait, but beauty and happiness will be achieved through sacrifice!
Ooooooooooooo, freaky! So what's it all mean? Well, Rose is starting to figure it out, but who must die? And what trials await our friends?
Chapter 15,
Tough Girl
Author: Ok, Sora is the tough girl on the block,
Sora: Yes, we've established that.
Author: Stop interrupting me!! Anyway, she's the alpha; you know the leader in her own mind.
Sora: Hey, you make it sound like a bad thing!
Author: Grrrrr, she also apparently thinks she can do everything on her own. But what happens when she receives more help from Ian, and even though she needed it, doesn't have a positive reaction towards it?
Sora: He keeps getting in my way, and I'm telling you I don't need him to help me!
Author: Hush! Well, let's just say her pride is harder for her to swallow, and she isn't the best at showing gratitude.
Sora: I'll show you some gratitude in a minute if you don't watch your mouth. You most certainly aren't making me look too kind in front of the readers.
Author: Well, you just watch yourself, because I'm in control of this and what I say goes!
Sora: NOOOOOOO!
Author: YES, now on with the story.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Everyone had managed to get up and now realized what had just happened. The girls looked away and the boys stared in disgust as the Shrikans, coated and dripping with the blood of their opponents, ripped and tore away at the flesh of their defeated enemies. Sora just looked on and smiled that demonic smile of hers and moved amongst the triumphant predators.
Kurama: And what's to keep them from going bloodthirsty and doing that to us?
Sora: Me, of course, and besides they've always been bloodthirsty they just usually aren't this temperamental!
Hiei: How comforting.
Sora: They saved your butts, what are you talking about, besides, how would you like it if you were woken up by a gun shot this early in the morning?
Sano: We could've taken on those guys.
Sora: With what, your drool?
Kuwabara: I res, resan,
Kurama: Resent?
Kuwabara: Yeah! I resent that remark.
Sora: Well, the truth hurts kid, cause you guys were sleeping like logs until I started shooting.
Ian: I'm surprised they woke up, they should be used to such ruckus from you this early in the morning by now!
Sora: Are you aware of the fact that I still have guns in my hands, Rion?
Ian: (he spoke with a cocky air) Yes, and I know you won't shoot me,
Sora: (smirking) I hope you don't mean that.
She lifted one of the guns playfully as though ready to shoot at him, but before she could even raise the weapon Ian had somehow managed to dodge around her and appear behind her! Resting his head coolly on her shoulder and taking both of her hands so that she was restrained he whispered in her ear,
Ian: Sure I do.
Sora: (kicking behind her and hitting him in a very tender spot) Watch yourself boy! Never approach a woman this early in the morning when she's armed, especially if that woman is me!
The others watched interestedly for a moment, but then turned to getting themselves properly dressed. They moved on quickly, trying to get as far away from the Shrikans' blood fest as possible. Sora had figured that Coronsoe must be nearby, and that it would be all right if they moved to a new area. Just as they had entered the small clearing where the pool was a voice boomed out from the surrounding brush.
Coronsoe: Hello children, enjoy a nice sleep?
Sora: We'll enjoy an even better one once we know that you're dead and gone to hell!
Coronsoe: Tsk, tsk, such naughty language for such a pretty little thing.
Sora: Cut the crap, what do you want now?
Coronsoe: Revenge darling, revenge!
And with that several ninjas leapt out of the shadows. There were quite a few of them, and by the way they held their stances you could tell they were quite well trained. The Shrikans had rejoined the group, and Ripfang eagerly stepped forward.
Ripfang: Let me take a crack at these wimps!
He charged forward so fast that the ninjas didn't have time to move, and just as Ripfang leapt, opening his mouth to tear off one of their heads something hit him in the shoulder in mid air! Whatever it was, it was just as big as him, and the two crashed to the ground, skidding to a halt in the dirt. Ripfang scrambled to his feet, and his jaw dropped so fast it felt like it was going to just fall off. There in front of him stood another Shrikan! Or at least something like a Shrikan. It was only a few centimeters shorter than him and had lightning bolt shaped streaks of electrifying yellow and sapphire blue all over its body. And there was one dark red stripe running down its spine from the tip of its nose to its tail, the red stripe matched its eyes. Everyone just stared on at the sight in front of them.
Coronsoe: Hahahahaha, you see this female is the only successful weapon I've been able to create, but she's nowhere near as strong as your Shrikans and she hasn't got any special mutations that make her any more dangerous. I was able to get enough information from your aunt before she died to get this far, but I need your help to make her just as good as yours! I'm surprised she's even alive, every Shrikan I make dies somehow, but this one managed to survive.
Sora: You monster! You treat her like some toy, and you've sent her to fight in a battle that you know she can't win.
Coronsoe: Why should I care, I can always try and make more, besides, without a male I can't breed her anyway. Now go you little pest and try and make yourself useful. With that she lunged at Ripfang, snarling ferociously. Ripfang didn't want to hurt her, but he couldn't just let her chase him about like this so he had no choice. He ran straight at one of the trees and ran straight up it, and pushed off of the trunk doing a back flip and landing on the ground behind her. She turned just in time to see the triple headed mace on Ripfang's tail fly at her. THUD! A sickening sound rang out around the glade and everyone watched as the limp form flew over their heads and crashed through several trees before landing in a small heap on the ground.
Ripfang: I didn't mean to hit her that hard!
Sora: Oh my god! Coronsoe you will pay for that.
Coronsoe: Well don't look at me, it's not like I was the one that knocked her brains out!
And with that Sora leapt at the man and caught him by surprise. Before anyone could get to her she had her hands around his throat and was throttling him senseless. But she had left her weapons on the ground, and didn't see one of the ninjas unsheathe a small dagger and prepare to throw it at her. The others were also preoccupied as other warriors came at them. But of course no one was after the little traitor, Ian. He saw the man prepare to attack Sora and remembered his own knife. He leapt behind Sora just in time to deflect the blade that would've severed her spine. But Sora's moment of triumph was cut short as Ian restrained her from killing the man.
Sora: What are you doing? Let me kill him!
Ian: (quickly trying to think of an excuse) Are you nuts, watch out those guys are going to throw some more knives!
He forced her head down as several blades flew at them. And before anyone could take another step the ninjas gathered up their unconscious leader and were gone into the shadows! Sora jumped to her feet and ran to the spot where the young raptor had fallen, shouting over her shoulder as she went.
Sora: I'll deal with you later Ian!
The others followed her to the spot, some of them not quite sure that they wanted to see the carnage. Sure enough there she was, lying amongst some ferns, blood dripping from her mouth.
Sora: (kneeling beside her) Oh my god, she's still breathing! Quick someone go get my bags, we need to help her fast.
But Ripfang was already arriving with them and crouched beside Sora to help her as best he could. The others watched in fascination, and Ian took advantage of the moment to hurry off and see Coronsoe.
Coronsoe was already awake again when Ian reached them.
Coronsoe: What took you; she could've killed me!
Ian: I'm sorry boss, but it's not like I could get to you any faster, are you all right?
Coronsoe: I'm fine, now here's the next location, hide somewhere for the others to find this time. That way you won't look so suspicious. Oh, and good work.
Ian: Huh? What do you mean?
Coronsoe: (his voice was dangerous, almost as if he didn't trust Ian) I saw that little moment you shared with the girl, hopefully she trusts you now right?
Ian: Yeah, whatever.
Coronsoe: I still can't help but laugh at that pathetic little animal! Did you see how far she flew!?!
Ian: (now he was being sarcastic) Yeah boss, I just love to see helpless little animals get their heads blown off.
Coronsoe: What are you talking about; I thought that was rather funny.
Ian: (now thoroughly disgusted) I have to get back, see you later.
Coronsoe was too weak to yell at him for speaking to him in that tone. Ian had arrived back at camp and had hidden the scrap of paper in one of the girl's bags. He then ran to check on the others and see if they had made any progress with the young animal.
Ian: ** I helped raise that Shrikan! I can't believe he just let that happen to her. Why did Coronsoe have to hurt her? Oh no, was he trying to warn me? Maybe he thinks I'm being disloyal and was reminding me that I need to watch how I interact with Sora! I need to be extra careful from now on. **
He came upon the quite scene. The others were now lounging about, and Sora had moved the little Shrikan into her tent.
Ian: (trying to keep his voice from shaking) How is she?
Sora: She's weak, but still hanging on, the blow only clipped her above the eyebrow, so I don't think there will be any permanent brain damage, but she lost a lot of blood.
Ian: I've seen her before; back when I worked for Coronsoe we called her Naomi.
Sora: Hah, that suites her.
Ripfang: What does, Naomi, mean?
Sora and Ian: Above all beauty.
Ripfang: (he stared at her) That is a good name for her.
Sora and Ian looked at each other. And then Razor popped out of nowhere.
Razor: Hey! Look what I just figured out!
He had found that by flexing certain muscles he could now control his spikes. He could make them lay flat like feathers and he could extend them too. But then he noticed the way his brother was looking at Naomi.
Razor: Aw, does widdle Ripfang have a widdle cwush on someone?
Ripfang: Shut up!
And with that he bounded after his brother.
Sora: I'm going to go get some water.
Before she left she patted Naomi on the shoulder and whispered into her ear.
Sora: Hang in there tough girl! You're amongst friends now, so come on back to us.
It was getting late and Sora sat by the pool and was watching her reflection. Ian walked up behind her.
Ian: The girls found our next clue, here; you should take a look at it. Seems as though Coronsoe is tiring of this little war you're fighting.
Sora quickly read the note, a smile slowly coming over her face.
Dear Foes,
I'm tired of waiting forever for you to make it to my final trial. So as of now you only have 3 more tests, an I'll need you to report to the Spirit world for our next fight, meet me at the same place as where the last dark tournament took place.
Sora: All right, awesome, that's a little less work for us.
Ian: Yeah, and I won't have to save your butt as much either!
Sora: Excuse me!?!? Ian: I had to save you twice from certain death today!
Sora: Ha! Dream on buddy, I don't need help from anyone, especially not you!
Ian: Come on! Several knives almost hit you today.
Sora: And I would've lived, you should know that by now!
Ian: Sorry, geese, I try to help you and this is the thanks I get.
Sora: I don't need help from anyone, thank you very much.
Ian: You know what your problem is? You just can't admit that you aren't perfect!
Sora: What?
Ian: You heard me! You think you can save the world or something all by yourself, and you're just too damn arrogant to realize that you're still a mortal being!
Sora: How dare you judge me like that! I should knock you into next week.
Ian: That's another thing! You're all talk, and as long as you've got those little guns with you, you act like you're queen of the world.
Sora: (tossing the guns away on the ground) All right then let's go! Come on, we'll see how tough you are when I'm done with you.
Ian: Stop kidding yourself! I've got you all figured out, you're like all those other people out there who think they're all that. You had a tough life growing up so now you've built your own little world somewhere in that empty head of yours! And since you're so afraid of other people getting too close to you, you always either push those who want to help you away or you try and beat them to the punch. And you say you don't want people to get close to you because you don't want them getting hurt, but you're really afraid of them hurting you!
Sora just stared at him, and for once she was actually stunned.
Sora: (she was quaking with rage and spoke through clenched teeth) You have no idea what you're talking about, and that's not the way I am at all! How dare you just waltz up here and get into my face, claiming that you know my life when you don't know the first thing about me. And it'll be a cold day in hell the day you ever do understand the first thing about me!
And with that she stalked off, but Ian had seen the look in her eyes as she spoke to him, and he knew he'd hurt her bad. Never had she looked at him that way before, and he really wished he hadn't been so hard on her. Picking up her guns he slowly followed her over to the other side of the pool. She was sitting on an outcrop of rock; her knees were drawn up to her chest and her head rested on them. Ian could just barely make out her features in the moonlight, and her face was shinning as tears ran down her cheeks. He tossed the guns over to her, but she didn't even look at them, she only stared at the water.
Ian: ** Oh man, what've I done, I really let my temper get the best of me this time! **
He slowly approached her,
Ian: Sora? (his voice was gentle, almost sad) Listen, I'm really sorry.
She didn't even bother to look at him, and we all know that the normal Sora would've thrown him off of the cliff by now.
Ian: ** Oh god I think I killed her. **
He placed his hand on her shoulder, but pulled it away quickly when she inhaled sharply and recoiled from his touch.
Ian: (sitting beside her) Did you hear me? I'm sorry for what I said before, please don't be sad.
Sora: (looking away from him, and mumbling) I'm not sad because of what you said, I'm sad because you said it.
Ian: Huh? Sorry, but that makes no sense to me.
Sora: I know a lot of people think of me the same way you do, but they don't tell me that they do, and I'm ok with that. I don't care what anyone says or thinks about me, but it really hurts when they actually tell me what they think about me and they really have no idea who I even am. People always judge me before they even get a chance to know me. You're obviously the same way.
Ian: No, no! I'm sorry ok; I just got out of control.
Sora: I get that way too, but you don't see me telling you that I know you're life.
Ian: Can I take back what I said?
Sora: Yes, but that doesn't mean I'll ever forget that you said it.
Then he did another thing that shocked Sora even more. Turning towards her, he scooped her up and placed her on his lap, holding her close to him. Her head rested against his chest, and her eyes went wide when she realized what was happening. His one arm rested lightly around her shoulders, his other around her waist. Sora quickly placed her hands on his chest to push away from him, but it was no use.
Sora: What are you doing!?!?!?!?!?!
Ian: If I can't take back what I said then I'll just have to say something else. I'm sorry that I hurt you, and if you give me another chance I promise you that it'll be the last thing that ever hurts you.
Now she had chills running up and down her spine, but she could feel her face growing hotter by the moment. But the wind was picking up and so she pressed closer to him for warmth. She began to relax, and the sound of his heart made her drowsy.
Sora: That's an awfully big promise to make.
Ian: I think I can keep it.
Sora: (yawning) Ok.
He picked her up and took her to her tent, she was already asleep. After placing a blanket over her he quickly placed a delicate kiss on her forehead and turned to leave.
Sora: (whispering gently) Wait, don't go...
Ian: I'll see you in the morning.
But he could hear her move behind him and as he turned to face her she placed her arms about his neck and pulled herself close to him. He returned the embrace, and she looked up at him. They exchanged another small kiss before he picked her up and placed her back in her bed and left.
BUT!! It appears they weren't the only ones sharing a cute lil' moment! DUN DUN DUN!! Earlier that day.
Kaoru: Do you think that little Shrikan will be all right? Her wound was pretty bad.
Kenshin: To tell you the truth, I think she's going to pull through well enough, that I do.
Kaoru: I hope she does. Ugh, I still can't forget this morning though, can you believe how terrible those Shrikans were, and they were eating people!
Kenshin: (taking her hand) I'm sorry you had to see that, that I am. But at least those bad men didn't get to us first!
Kaoru: Sometimes I'm afraid that something like that will happen. I mean, I don't know what I'd do if I ever lost you or even Sano and Yahiko.
Kenshin: Well, I must thank you for your concern, but I promise that I'll always do my best to make sure that nothing like that ever happens.
Kaoru: Kenshin you truly are a wondrous person!
Kenshin: (rubbing the back of his head nervously) Uh, well, thanks I guess.
Kaoru looked at him for a moment, and for a split second they were mesmerized by one another. Their faces were so close,
Sano: (from behind a tree) Hahahahahaha! Go Kenshin!
Kaoru: You idiot rooster head!! Just wait till I get my hands on you!
She chucked her shoe at Sano, but missed and it smacked Keiko in the head! She got all swirly eyed, and it just so happened that Yusuke was right there, and he caught her as she fell backwards.
Yusuke: Aaah! Um, Keiko, are you all right?
She began to come around, and quickly jumped up, quite flustered and Yusuke rolled his eyes as she began berating him about how to properly treat a lady.
Rose was sitting up in a tree, all of these previous events she had already seen in her visions, but it was her latest one that disturbed her. She could see two paths, and Sora standing between them, she had to choose which way to go. One led to Ian, but that path was overgrown with treacherous vegetation and traps, and all around him swirled great mists of darkness and shadow! But in his hands he held a small light, pure and fiery, and the shadows seemed to recoil from it. The other path was clear and sunny, but no one stood at its end. Faintly in the distance Rose could make out Sora's house, but it was empty, and not even Keela or Whiplash stood waiting there for their beloved master's return.
Rose: ** What can all of this mean? From what I can tell, if Sora falls for that boy, only disaster and death await her, but that light, it's small, yet it stands for happiness. And should she stay away from him, her future seems clear, yet lonely, and full of stressful sadness. Who is it that brings death though, and who is it that must die in order for Sora's happiness to combat the darkness? I see good things for Ripfang, his hardships have only just begun though, I can see him standing upon a mountain, he will be triumphant in the end, but not without bearing great sadness. Everyone is marked by some sadness, but it will all be ok, because I can see them standing together in the end. **
Sora: (she approached the thoughtful raptor, and yes this was before she and Ian had talked that night) What is it that you see little flower?
Rose: I can't tell you remember? But I will say this, be wary, for it seems as though death is going to start bidding a bit higher than usual. Death and sorrow lie in wait, but beauty and happiness will be achieved through sacrifice!
Ooooooooooooo, freaky! So what's it all mean? Well, Rose is starting to figure it out, but who must die? And what trials await our friends?