Marisay-chan writing one last time for this story! Let's go straight into the story now!
Disclaimer: I do not own any of the characters, only the story ^.^
In Italics are thoughts
In Bold are flashbacks
In Bold and Italics are thoughts in a flashback
*In Italics within stars are telepathic thoughts between Rikun and Rikuo*
~Story Starts~
Yura opened the window, steam rolling out from all the hot water. She tensed up, feeling a strange aura all around the town.
"Yura-chan? What's wrong?" Kana asked, still in the midst of washing her hair when Yura suddenly opened the window.
"Ah…" Yura quickly closed back the window, "It's nothing."
"Is that so…?" Kana tilted her head, before facing forward to continue her wash.
Yura narrowed her eyes at Kana's back, "…Ienaga-san."
"Hm?"
"…Why were you with that man earlier? That man reeks of yokai aura."
Kana paused, and let out a sigh. "He…felt like someone I know…and he said that he knew some information, so I…"
Yura huffed slightly, "Yokais are not to be trusted. You should not go anywhere with them."
Kana quickly rinsed her hair and entered the bathtub Yura was in. "B-But, he does not feel anything like that man earlier. He makes me feel safe instead…but that man earlier feels…wrong. So I was really glad that you decided to come with me, Yura-chan."
"He?" Yura frowned, "…By any chance, are you talking about the yokai that saved us?"
Kana blushed, and looked down, silently acknowledging the question.
Yura gave a defeated sigh, "…I'm getting out."
Will be the one to unite them together
~On the way to the battlefield~
Rikun and his Night Parade strolled onwards. Seeing how confident they walked on, it prompted almost every yokai in the Nura clan to join in, causing fog to surround them, dense with Fear.
Zen slowly joined them, walking right behind Rikun, "Leave the wounded to me. Concentrate on your battles."
On their way, Gozumaru and Mezumaru suddenly appeared at the side.
"We are just following Gyuki-sama's orders," Gozumaru said as Rikun walked past him. "Don't think too much about it."
"Sure," Rikun said casually. "Just remember what I told you about earlier."
"Hn. Let's go, Mezu."
"Ah! The nicknames Young Master have given us are getting to you, Gozu!" Mezumaru snickered.
"S-Shut up!" Gozumaru's cheeks tinted pink, before he hurriedly left the place, with Mezumaru following him.
Kubinashi grinned, hearing that conversation. "Despite what he said, Gozumaru actually cared about Young Master a lot, doesn't he?"
Rikun smirked in reply.
Will be the one to unite them together
~With the Gozu and Mezu~
"Stupid Young Master and his stupid nicknames…and stop laughing, you idiot!"
Mezumaru was heard snickering throughout their journey.
Will be the one to unite them together
A latch was opened, shining light down the dark basement.
"The time has come," Tamazuki called out. "Inugami."
Inugami slowly shifted his position in order to take a look above, where Tamazuki was.
"After so many long and hard years, I have awaited this," Tamazuki told him. "This time the Nura clan will fall, and victory shall be ours!"
On his hand, Tamazuki held a bloodied sword, in which the blood was still fresh, dripping onto the ground.
Will be the one to unite them together
~At the battlefield, which was just in front of the new building~
Some Shikoku yokais were lingering around, preparing for the fight.
"Everybody!"
That voice caught every yokais's attention. Looking at that direction, they were faced with Mezumaru without his skull and hair tied into pigtails, looking very feminine, and carrying some food in his hands.
"How about some snacks?" Mezumaru twitched discreetly, trying to hold back his embarrassment. "…This is so embarrassing! Dressing like a female!" He muttered to Gozumaru.
"Deal with it, I am in disguise too."
Mezumaru gave a deadpanned look, "…You are only wearing a dog mask!"
Gozumaru adjusted the hood covering his head, "It's the best I could do. Remember, our motive here is to get information about Young Master." He then walked off, holding onto a kettle to serve tea to the yokais.
"I know, I know…" Mezumaru trailed off, seeing one of the yokais approaching.
"Did Tamazuki-sama sent you? You are quite cute!" The yokai praised Mezumaru while taking one of the buns he was holding.
"Ahahaha…"
"There sure are quite a lot of you," Gozumaru said, pouring tea to one of the yokais.
"Of course, we arrived from Chichibo pass. Later, we will join Tamazuki-sama's group. Those Nura clan won't stand a chance against us!" The yokai bragged, slightly getting on Gozumaru's nerves. "To add on, we also have the Young Master of the Nura clan as hostage!"
Both Gozumaru and Mezumaru quickly paid attention to the blabbing yokai.
"Of course," Gozumaru continued, acting out his part. "He will be the key to victory."
"Nah," The yokai shrugged, "Not so sure about that, I mean, why would Tamazuki-sama place so much attention on him. He looks so weak, it would be easy to just kill him, haha!"
A vein popped.
The next thing everybody knew, the yokai was screaming in pain as hot water splashed onto his foot.
"YEEEOOOOWWW!"
"Ah," Gozumaru quickly righted the kettle. "How careless of me."
"Watch where you are holding that next time!" The yokai hopped on his other foot, gently blowing the burned foot.
"But that's not the only key to our victory," The other yokai said, dismissing the accident. "After all, Tamazuki-sama is the one who had obtained the 'Mark of the Conqueror'!"
Mark of the Conqueror?
Gozumaru nodded, handing a cup to another yokai, "That's right, that's Tamazuki-sama for you."
"With Mao's Hammer on our side, nobody will be able to stand in our way!" The earlier yokai boasted, snatching up another bun.
"The enemy is approaching!"
"What?" Cups were smashed to the ground as yokais rushed off, leaving the two disguised yokais behind.
Mezumaru tilted his head, "You really cared about Young Master a lot, don't you, Gozu?"
"I have no idea what you are talking about," Gozumaru blushed slightly, before getting serious. "…Just what is this Mao's Hammer?"
"Gozu, are you…"
"That seems to be the hope for those Shikoku yokais. If we can get that, not only could we cripple them, the Nura clan had no choice but to recognize the Gyuki clan, especially the Third Heir," Gozumaru grinned, a dark aura appearing behind him at the mention of Rikun. "Also, we might find the Young Master along the way. That's like killing three yokais with just the tip of a claw."
"I thought as much…" Mezumaru sighed, knowing that any chance to show the Third Heir up would be top priority for Gozumaru.
"Now is our chance, let's go."
Just as Mezumaru was about to follow Gozumaru, he sensed something behind him. Quickly dropping the snacks to the ground, he turned around and tensed up. "G-Gozu!"
Gozumaru glanced at where Mezumaru was looking, only to widen his eyes.
A few feet away from them, stood Tamazuki and his subordinates, which includes Inugami and Kagibari-Onna.
"The Young Master!" Mezumaru gasped out, seeing Rikuo being carried, unconscious in Tearai Oni's hands.
Tamazuki gave a lazy smile, and threw down the yokais, whom were talking just now, in front of them. He slowly showed his sword to the two yokais.
"Demon King…Summoning Scream?" Gozumaru caught sight of the words on the sheath of the sword Tamazuki is holding.
…That must be the sword the Third Heir heard from Young Master…
"Later, I want the both of you to scout for information on Rikuo's whereabouts," Rikun told Gozumaru and Mezumaru, just moments before they were about to head out.
"Hah?" Gozumaru gave a disgruntling face. "Why should we follow your order?"
Rikun raised an eyebrow. It was fairly obvious that Gozumaru held a grudge against him, and to be really honest, the Third Heir found this terribly amusing.
"Gyuki-Jiji was the one who recommended you two to do this."
Gozumaru jerked when he heard that.
"But if you are not willing, I understand," Rikun tilted his head. "…What a shame…I thought that I would be able to count on the Gyuki clan to do this…Rikuo spoke highly of you two as well…he would be so disappointed."
Each statement shot like arrows through Gozumaru, who was shaking badly as Rikun continued speaking.
Mezumaru glanced between the both of them worriedly, knowing Gozumaru was about to lose it.
Rikun gave a disappointed sigh, "I guess I will find someone else to do this the-"
"We will do it."
"Hm?" Crimson eyes shifted to the red-clothed child.
"I said, we will do it!" Gozumaru yelled out, before stomping off.
Mezumaru sweatdropped as he watched the angered yokai went round a corner. He dragged out a sigh, finding Gozumaru a little stupid for not seeing the Third Heir manipulating him so easily.
Apparently, Rikun thought the same as well.
"He's easily riled up." Amusement was practically dripping in every word.
The sweatdrop on Mezumaru's head grew.
"…Be careful."
"Eh?" Mezumaru looked at Rikun, who suddenly had a serious expression on his face.
Rikun narrowed his eyes, "…Rikuo contacted me for a brief moment. It seems Tamazuki had a sword…A very dangerous sword."
"If possible, do not get in contact with it," Rikun turned around, about to head out. "…Take care of yourselves, the both of you. Rikuo would be sad if something happens to you two."
Mezumaru watched as Rikun walked off, while Gozumaru could be seen frowning deeply at the corner he had just gone, hearing everything Rikun had said.
A little late for that…
Gozumaru sweated a little, staring at the sword.
Rikun was not wrong to warn them. Simply looking at the sword sent shivers down their spine. It just gave…bad vibes.
"What should we do, Gozu?" Mezumaru whispered, focusing on the sword as well.
Gozumaru narrowed his eyes, attention shifting between the sword and the unconscious Rikuo, not having the slightest idea what to do.
Tamazuki, however, did not hesitate, "I do dislike yokais that talks too much." He slowly unsheathed his sword. "Shall I show you the power of this sword?"
The sound of the sword unsheathing woke Rikuo up. In the state of blurriness, Rikuo fought against the headache that erupted the moment he came to consciousness. Brown eyes flitted all around, catching sight of Tamazuki with his sword, and the two yokais from the Gyuki clan.
Eyes widened as Rikuo remembered what that sword did.
Giving a kick in the face to the yokai holding him, Rikuo fell out of Tearai Oni's grip wobbly, and before any of the Shikoku yokais could react, the Young Master quickly found his balance and rushed towards Gozumaru and Mezumaru.
"Gozu! Mezu! RUN!"
Gozumaru ripped his dog mask off and Mezumaru gasped, just as Tamazuki came towards them, sword gleaming manically.
Will be the one to unite them together
Yura sighed, rubbing her hair dry with a towel.
"…Take care of that injury of yours."
The Onmyoji paused her movements and stared at the ground.
…I don't understand…Yokais…are evil…So why did he…
"B-But, he does not feel anything like that man earlier. He makes me feel safe instead."
A yokai that makes humans safe…
Yura glanced at Kana, who was drying her hair.
"…Ienaga-san?"
"Hm?"
"…How long have you known..." Yura hesitated before going through with her question. "...Nura-kun?"
"Eh?" Kana switched the dryer off. "Rikuo-kun?"
Yura waited as Kana placed a finger on her chin.
"We have known each other since we were just little kids," Kana nodded to confirm it. "Why?"
Yura frowned, unsure of how to put it. "…Does he…seems strange to you?"
Kana immediately shook her head, "No way. Rikuo-kun is a polite boy. He's always kind and cheerful to everyone." Kana then frowned in thought, "…Though…there was once, when we were still in elementary school, Rikuo-kun have a strange fascination with…yokais."
"Strange fascination with yokais?" Yura furrowed her eyebrows.
"Un…" Kana nodded. "Rikuo-kun, at that time, always talks about yokais. That he loves them, and that they are good, not evil…" She sighed, "Because of that, he got bullied a lot. But…"
Placing the dryer down, Kana recalled back the time they got into the bus incident. "Yura-chan, you have heard about the bus incident Kiyojuji-kun was talking about, right?" At Yura's nod, Kana continued her story, "Kiyojuji-kun demeaned Rikuo-kun a lot that day, for liking yokais. So Rikuo-kun did not board the same bus with us. Then, the bus got into an accident and, as you know, a yokai saved us. After that, Kiyojuji-kun started saying that yokais might be good after all, but…Rikuo-kun stopped talking about yokais."
Yura narrowed her eyes, "…He stopped talking about them?"
Kana nodded, "And whenever yokais were mentioned, Rikuo-kun became really reserved, even now." Kana sighed again, "I guess he was really hurt by what Kiyojuji-kun had said."
Just a conversation about yokais…Why would that hurt him? Unless-
Yura jerked up, suddenly sensing a large amount of aura. "W-What?"
"Yura-chan?"
"What is this…?!" Yura stood up, looking at the window. "This is the first time I felt such a massive yokai aura!"
"I need to go, something terrible is going to happen!"
Will be the one to unite them together
~At the battlefield~
Rikun and his parade arrived at the newly built building, which was in fact the Shikoku yokai's hideout, the Fear completely surrounding the place.
"W-What was that?"
"Y-Yokais?"
"Run away!"
Their appearance scared away all nearby humans, running for safety. Paying them no heed, Rikun led his yokais to the middle, where the Shikoku yokais were waiting at the other side.
Crimson eyes swept through the place, trying to spot the person he was looking for.
"I see you made it, Nura Rikun."
Rikun raised his head, seeing Tamazuki standing on the podium of the building.
"You have quite a number of yokais, I see."
~Back at the Nura main house~
"What?!" Hitotsume yelled out, looking all over the house. "They all went?!"
The only members left in the house were some of the clan heads, including Gyuki and Asajigahara no Kijo.
~With Rikun~
Cutting to the chase, Rikun asked, "Where's Rikuo?"
"Rather straight forward, aren't we?" Tamazuki smiled. "Rikuo-kun, huh? I'm afraid…he got in the way."
The yokais behind Rikun tensed up at the meaning, some growling in rage. Rikun remained calm, merely blinked at the statement.
Tamazuki laughed, "Such a confident stance you hold, but it all ends here." Leaves started swirling around him, covering his whole body. "Just take a good look at me."
The leaves then dispersed, revealing Tamazuki with pinkish-white hair, wearing a purple and white outfit, along with a mask.
"Whoaaaa, Tamazuki-sama!"
"All right! That's our Tamazuki-sama!"
"That's his yokai form?" Aotabo gritted out over those roars, still angry at the fact that Tamazuki might have killed Rikuo.
The transformed yokai jumped and landed on the ground. A path was quickly made for him so he would be able to face Rikun. "The time has finally come. As promised, I will take your Fear from you!"
"You can sure bark for a Tanuki," Rikun commented.
A lone Shikoku yokai rushed out, aiming for Rikun. "The glory is mine!"
Rikun's Night Parade readied their weapons, but was stopped by Rikun.
"Don't interfere."
The yokai brought his spear up high, ready to stab Rikun with it. Rikun closed his eyes and snapped them open, just as the tip of the spear almost hit him. The yokai immediately stopped, his breath hitching at those malicious looking eyes, the Fear surrounding Rikun frightened him to the core. Unable to continue with his assault, the yokai backed up to where he had rushed out, only to get thrown to the side by Inugami for his uselessness.
That one action was simple, yet effective in proving his point. Rikun's Fear was nothing to laugh about and not easy to beat either.
Tamazuki tilted his head at the display, "Well then, this will be an interesting battle between our Night Parades." He raised his sword to the air, "Go, my comrades! Lay your lives down for me!"
Just as the Nura clan was about to do the same, they spotted their Third Heir heading towards the Shikoku yokais as if they were not there. "T-Third Heir?"
"What an idiot! Let's get him!" The Shikoku yokais pounced at Rikun, eager to get the credit for taking down the leader of the Nura clan.
With no time to think, Rikun's Night Parade and the rest of the Nura clan joined in the fight, trying to protect their Third Heir as well as defending their clan's position.
Will be the one to unite them together
~At a playground~
Jiro was bouncing his soccer ball on his leg when it suddenly shot away to the side. "Whoa, whoa, w-why so suddenly?"
Natsumi shivered, feeling a sudden chill. "D-Did you feel that?" She stopped swinging on the swing she was sitting on.
"Why do we need to come out to do activity in the middle of the night?" Saori sat at the swing next to Natsumi, pressing on her phone. "I can't get in contact with Kana."
"Because we have a better chance finding yokais at night!" Kiyotsugu answered from the bench, typing frantically at his laptop, before coming across a page that shocked him. "W-What?"
"What's wrong?" Jiro managed to get his ball back and stood behind Kiyotsugu, glancing at his laptop.
"Look at this!"
The two girls came over to see as well, only to see the screen scrolling down so fast they can't even read a single word.
"What is this?" Natsumi squirted her eyes, "It's going too fast, I can't read anything."
"This is a webpage I designed to talk about yokais," Kiyotsugu explained. "Right now, everybody is commenting on seeing yokais on Ukiyoe Town!"
"Eh?!" The other three gasped out.
Kiyotsugu closed his laptop, "Right, let's go!"
"Let's go?" Saori did not like the sound of that. "To?"
"Tonight, the Kiyojuji Squad will be doing some yokai sight-seeing at Ukiyoe Town!"
Will be the one to unite them together
"Let's go behind the back and attack them!" Some Shikoku yokais scurried down an alley to ambush from the back.
However, on the way, there was someone big blocking their way.
"Huh? Who are you?"
Maroon eyes was the last thing they saw before-
"Anki Kuroenbu!"
All the yokais were killed within the next second.
Settling down, Kurotabo walked towards the one blocking the road, "I'm glad that you decided to join us, Shoei-sama. You are doing a lot just sitting here."
Shoei merely gave an amused huff, feeling grateful that he had decided to join in at the last minute as well. Even if he can't fight, at least he would be able to do something.
Will be the one to unite them together
~With Tamazuki~
It was chaos everywhere, each and every yokai were fighting with each other. Howls and roars were echoing everywhere.
Tamazuki sat at the end, watching as these occurred, he tapped his sword almost lazily, bored with just sitting there. His subordinates were all out there, including Inugami, who wanted to be the one to take down Rikun.
"Someone must have got him in this mess," Tamazuki mused, recalling seeing Rikun just walking straight into danger. "Looks like this fight would be over soon."
A second after he said that, two yokais fighting in front of him moved away, revealing Rikun coming slowly towards him.
"What?!" Tamazuki stood up in shock.
The Third Heir walked leisurely towards him, none of the yokais stop him, almost as if they could not see him.
Why is nobody fighting him? Why is it they can't see him?!
"Yo."
Snapping out of his thoughts, Tamazuki gasped, seeing Rikun in front of him and already unsheathing his sword. In a split second, he quickly held out his sword, just in time to stop Nenekirimaru from slicing him into half, making a loud clink.
At that loud sound, all yokais turned to see the two commanders going head to head.
"When did he-?"
"Third Heir!"
"I see…" Tamazuki strained out, trying to push Rikun back. "This is your Fear. It overwhelms an opponent so much that they turned a blind eye towards you. This is the Fear of a Nurarihyon!" Tamazuki gritted as Rikun was slowly overpowering him, "…So this is how he did it."
"Ho?" Rikun trembled with effort to keep Tamazuki down, "Judging by what you say, Rikuo managed to escape, didn't he? As expected of my lovely brother."
Tamazuki growled out at the satisfied smirk Rikun had.
Will be the one to unite them together
~At the alley~
"It has gotten quiet over here," Kurotabo observed.
A crash caught the attention of Shoei and Kurotabo. Kurotabo raised his weapon, inching forward to investigate, only to gasp in shock.
Gozumaru and Mezumaru suffered a ton of injuries, and what was more surprising, was that Rikuo was with them, holding his head as if in pain and also had multiple wounds on his body.
"Young Master! Gozumaru! Mezumaru!" Kurotabo immediately helped Rikuo up, "What happened?"
"Urg…" Rikuo held his pounding head, too much in pain to keep his eyes open. Both Gozumaru and Mezumaru struggled to stay on their feet.
"Let's get you to Zen-sama first," Kurotabo carried Rikuo.
"I will get them there," Shoei stood up, "You should return to Third Heir's side."
"But…"
"Just do it!"
Will be the one to unite them together
~With Yura~
Yura rushed through the street, the yokai aura getting stronger with each step she took.
Behind her, Kana started slowing down, unable to catch up with Yura. "Yura-chan! W-Wait a minute!"
"Don't come with me!" Yura yelled back. "It will be dangerous, just go back!"
Kana came to a stop, panting heavily, watching Yura going further and further off. She pursed her lips and decided to take another route.
Will be the one to unite them together
~Back on the battlefield~
Kejoro against Kagibari-Onna, Aotabo wrestling Tearai Oni, Kappa evading Gangi Kozo, Sanba Garasu slashing their way through and Kubinashi holding back Inugami. Every yokai fought their hardest as their commanders clashed.
"Tamazuki-sama!" A group of Shikoku yokais came forward to help.
A look from Rikun stopped them in their tracks; he swung Nenekirimaru, warning them to back off.
Tamazuki used the chance to crawl away and gave a short laugh.
Rikun frowned, not seeing anything funny. Suddenly, he felt a presence beside his head. Turning, his eyes widened when he saw a female yokai with black feathers, the feathers seeping into his eyes.
"Urgh!" Rikun tried to hit her with Nenekirimaru but missed, as his sclera went completely black, a visible indication that his vision was lost.
"I see you have met Yosuzume," Rikun heard Tamazuki said. "This is the power of my subordinates. Get him!"
Yosuzume? Isn't that- damn it!
Not being able to see and hearing yokais approaching him, Rikun whipped out his sakazuki cup and blew across the liquid. "Ougi Meikyo Shisui, Sakura!"
Blue flames burst out, surrounding Rikun in a form of protection and killing the yokais near him.
"Very impressive, Nura Rikun," Rikun growled, hearing Tamazuki's voice again. "But that is as far as you go."
I can't see anything, damn it!
"The principle of Yin and Yang is widely known in the world," Tamazuki told him. "In simple terms, darkness and light. Darkness represents us, yokais, while light signifies humans. The light fears the darkness and darkness devours the light. In other words, there is no way humans and yokais could co-exist with each other."
In the next moment, Rikun felt a sharp pain at his side.
"So you, who is a part of both, should cease to exist as well."
Tamazuki stepped back, letting Rikun fall to the ground after stabbing him. "You should abandon the light and fall into the darkness. So what do you say, Nura Rikun? Join me and we could bring a whole new world deprived of humans!"
"…I refuse."
"Hm?" Tamazuki made a confused sound.
"...Darkness came about because of light, and light evolves because there is darkness. One could not survive without the other, just like day and night," Rikun staggered up. "…Only when there is a mix of both, will they both thrive."
"Is that so? That's too bad." Tamazuki raised his sword, "Then it would better if I just kill you now!"
Damn it!
"Third Heir!"
Rikun heard someone calling him and felt a figure moved in front of him, blocking Tamazuki's attack.
Cold…what…?
"Third Heir! Are you all right?"
"…Yuki-Onna?" Rikun hesitantly called out, not sure if he was right.
"Yes! Please, this way!"
Rikun let himself be dragged to wherever Tsurara was taking him.
"A nuisance." Tamazuki watched the Yuki-Onna pulled Rikun away to a safe distance. Indicating to Yosuzume, he pointed to Tsurara, "Get her as well."
Hearing that, Rikun reacted, "Yuki-Onna, run! That's Yosuzume!"
Tsurara gasped, recognizing the name, but by then it was too late. Tsurara felt her vision disappearing the moment Yosuzume got too close.
"Such a sad fate," Tamazuki taunted. "Seems like your subordinate is useless after all. "
Yosuzume spread her wings and every yokai, beside Tamazuki, in the vicinity lost their visions as well.
Tsurara fell to the ground beside Rikun, clutching a hand to her eyes, "That's…Yosuzume…?! I can't see…!"
Rikun cursed. "Are you all right, Yuki-Onna?"
"Un…" Tsurara slowly stood up again. "I did not know we would encounter Yosuzume here…"
Rikun tightened his lips, remembering the warning Tsurara gave when the brothers were young.
"It's dark," Six-year-old Rikuo cried out. "Maybe we shouldn't have prank Yuki-Onna to get away? We got lost!"
"We are not lost!" Seven-year-old Rikun denied, "We are just…stuck between somewhere we want to be and somewhere we don't want to be."
"…" Rikuo stared at his brother, before sighing in defeat, "We are lost."
"Urgh…" Rikun sweatdropped at the blunt tone Rikuo had.
"It's dark…"
"It's night time, of course it's dark. You are a yokai, yet you are afraid of the dark?"
Rikuo pouted at the teasing, "I'm not afraid! But…it's dark."
Although Rikun teased his younger brother, he, himself, felt that it was getting really dark as well, even for night time.
"Hmm…" Rikun held Rikuo's hand to assure him. "I'm sure Yuki-Onna will find us soon."
"Rikun-sama! Rikuo-sama!"
"Look." Rikun smiled, glad that he was right. "Over here, Yuki-Onna!"
A pale hand reached out from the darkness to grab both of them on the shoulders.
Tsurara smiled in relief, "There the both of you are! Please don't do this again, all right? I thought you were taken by Yosuzume, seeing how dark this place is."
"Yosuzume?" The siblings echoed.
"Un," Tsurara nodded. "I heard from somewhere, that the feather of the yokai, Yosuzume, can slip into the even tiniest opening of the eye, and create total darkness."
"Hehhh…" Rikun and Rikuo nodded in understanding.
"Yuki-Onna would protect us if we ever met Yosuzume, isn't that right, Rikun?" Rikuo said in confidence.
"Silly little brother," Rikun flicked Rikuo's forehead, making Rikuo pout. "If she can't see, how could she protect us?"
"Then one of us should become her eyes, then she could protect us!" Rikuo argued, "Right, Yuki-Onna?"
Tsurara giggled at the cute argument between the brothers and nodded, playing along, "Of course!"
"And if one of us became blind too?" Rikun countered back.
"Then, of course, the other will become her eyes, silly Rikun," Rikuo said in a 'isn't that obvious' tone, making Tsurara giggle again.
"Don't call me silly," Rikun pouted. "What if both of us are blinded?"
"Um…" Rikuo thought hard, "Um…"
Tsurara gave another giggle, seeing how serious Rikuo looked, before taking each of the children's hand. "I will do my best to protect both of you. But for now, we need to go back home, otherwise, even I can't protect you from Wakana-sama's and Yamabuki-sama's wrath."
Both brothers paled, realization hitting them like lightning.
Rikuo pulled Tsurara's hand in a panic, "Let's go, let's go!"
Rikun nodded frantically, pulling the female yokai as well.
Tsurara's laughter rang through the dark place.
Rikun gave a fond smile at the memory. At the end, their mothers still punished them for staying out late. Returning to the situation at hand, Rikun wondered how they are to defeat Yosuzume without their sight. The suggestion Rikuo made when young seemed like a fantasy now.
All of a sudden, Rikun felt something. Turning his head slightly, he could almost feel someone standing back to back against him, whispering to him.
Then, for a split second, he saw Tamazuki standing in front of him, before it went totally black again.
Tsurara kept a keen ear, trying to hear what was going on.
"…Yuki-Onna."
Surprised by the sudden whisper, Tsurara quickly replied back, "Y-Yes, Third Heir?"
"…Do you still remember the suggestion Rikuo made when you told us about Yosuzume?"
The yokai blinked before smiling softly, "…Of course."
"Think you can dispel this spell, if direction is provided?"
Tsurara gave a chilling smile, and said in confidence, "Of course."
"Good…" Rikun smirked, bangs covering his eyes.
"I don't know what you think is funny," Tamazuki snarled, catching sight of Rikun smirking. "But there is nothing you can do in your state!"
Too fast for them to react, Tsurara was kicked away by Yosuzume, earning a pained cry.
"Yuki-Onna!" Rikun called out helplessly.
"What a useless subordinate you have," Tamazuki mocked, raising his sword. "Time for you to be gone!"
Rikun did the only thing he could at the moment.
Tamazuki flinched when he felt the Fear Rikun emitted, making him backed away in fear. Rikun slowly became invisible the moment Tamazuki backed off.
Not good! He's disappearing!
Tamazuki quickly forced himself to move, slashing at the almost invisible Rikun, who became visible again at the wound he received.
Just what is up with that sword?! I felt as though my strength is being leeched upon…
Rikun winced in pain and felt the presence against his back again, just as Tsurara landed beside him on the ground.
"Yuki-Onna."
"Yes?" Tsurara stood up slowly.
"I'm counting on you!" Rikun told her, hoping against hope that this works.
"Yes! Leave it to me!"
"Big talk." Tamazuki gestured to Yosuzume, "Yosuzume, deliver the final blow!"
Yosuzume flew and went above the two sightless yokai, and headed straight down, her spear aiming at Tsurara's head.
Rikun shifted, turning his head left and right, before looking up.
Yosuzume blinked in surprise, seeing Rikun looking directly at her and his sclera went back to its original color.
"What!? How is that possible?!" Tamazuki was shocked, at the fact that Rikun had regained his sight.
Will be the one to unite them together
~At the same time, with Zen, who was at the far side of the battlefield~
Zen sprayed his medicine on the arm of a yokai before stroking it gently with one of his feather, which seems to have healing powers, "That should do it."
"Please take care of them!"
Zen turned around, seeing Shoei dropping Gozumaru to the ground, while carrying both Rikuo and Mezumaru on his back.
"Rikuo!" Zen immediately got up to look at Rikuo. "Rikuo, are you all right?"
Rikuo nodded gingerly, not wishing to aggravate his headache. "Tend…to Gozu and Mezu…I'm fine." Rikuo kneeled down on the ground in exhaustion and pain.
"We were worried!" Zen told him, quickly handling some of the more serious injuries on Gozumaru and Mezumaru. "What exactly happened after you were taken?"
"W-Wait…treat us later…" Gozumaru winced out, holding his injured arm.
"You will die if you go out there again," Zen told them bluntly.
"We have…to inform the Third Heir…right away…" Mezumaru gasped out.
"What?" Zen, along with Shoei, blinked in confusion wondering what was so important. "Rikuo, what are they talking ab-Rikuo?"
Rikuo was looking towards the side, holding his head with both hands.
"Rikuo, what's wrong?" Zen asked in concern.
"Young Master?" Shoei placed a hand on Rikuo's shoulder.
Rikuo jerked slightly, slowly turning his head.
The present yokais gasped in horror.
Rikuo's sclera were completely black.
Will be the one to unite them together
~With Rikun~
"Yosuzume, stop!"
Too late
"Above you, Yuki-Onna!" Rikun called out, his sclera turning black once again, unable to give anymore directions.
However, that was enough for the snow yokai.
"As you command, Third Heir." An uncharacteristic smirk formed on Tsurara's face, and her eyes narrowed, gaining a sinister look, "Let it be known that Yuki-Onnas are not that easily taken down! Noroi no Fubuki, Fusei Kakurei!" Tsurara aimed right above her, blasting her foe backwards and freezing the attacking yokai at the same time. The blizzard also broke through Yosuzume's spell.
Cries of delight echoed the place as yokais regained back their visions. Tsurara blinked for moment, looking at the frozen Yosuzume dumbly, as if she could not believe that she did it. "I-I did it! Third Heir!" She yelled out excitingly, acting completely different from earlier.
Tamazuki dodged a slash that came too close for comfort.
"Good work, Yuki-Onna. As expected of our protector," Crimson eyes glowed brightly against the white sclera. "Have to thank Rikuo as well for lending his sight for a second too."
"Now," Rikun pointed Nenekirimaru at Tamazuki. "I believed you said something about delivering the final blow?"
A dark smirk appeared on Rikun's face.
"Shall I be the one to deliver it?"
Will be the one to unite them together
~With the Supreme Commanders~
A tensed silence hung around the air as the train got nearer to their destination.
Danuki released a defeated sigh.
"…Tamazuki…" The Tanuki said it in an almost sad tone. "…Looks like I may not make it in time…right, my son…?"
Both Nurarihyons gave a start at the unexpected murmur, before looking at each other warily. Given the circumstances, that statement might hold true.
Rihan folded his arms and looked down, knowing how hard it was for Danuki. The knowledge of your child might be killed when you could only sit here, it was nothing but painful. After all, he was going through the same process.
Nurarihyon shifted, looking out of the window. He watched as some crows pass by. Looking back at his old acquaintance and seeing how the once held regal shoulders slumping forward slightly, Nurarihyon gave a short huff that caught Rihan's attention.
Rihan blinked as Nurarihyon raised his hand.
Only sparing a glance to his son, Nurarihyon closed his eyes.
And knocked softly on the window twice.
Will be the one to unite them together
"Hm?" Karasu Tengu raised his head, looking up at some of the crows flying about.
Tilting his head, Karasu Tengu quickly flew around the battlefield, trying to find his children, "Oiii, stupid children!"
Will be the one to unite them together
"There's no way, you can beat me!" Tearai Oni boasted, pushing Aotabo down with little effort, "I am stronger than you!"
Aotabo grunted, the skulls on his neck glowed and his eyes turned red.
"Wha-?!" Tearai Oni cried out in pain, feeling his arms getting twisted. "M-My arms…!"
"You are really in the way," Aotabo growled out, having enough of the boastful yokai. "I need to find the Young Master, not get stuck with a talkative weakling."
"Goriki Raisan!" The skull rosary Aotabo wore spread out and circled around him.
Tearai Oni did not even stand a slightest chance before he was punched hard right on the jaw and thrown into the air as if weighing nothing.
"This is the power of the assault officers of the Nura clan!" Aotabo stood straight up, "Who's next?"
The surrounding yokais trembled, but gathered their courage and head towards Aotabo, but before they could, they were all sliced into pieces.
"Hey," Aotabo complained. "Those were mine!"
"You don't get all the glory," Kurotabo finally arrived at the battlefield. "I'm an assault officer of the Nura clan as well."
"Keh," Aotabo grinned, noticing more yokais coming forth. "Shall we?"
"Right on it."
Will be the one to unite them together
"Stop!" Gangi Kozo vented out, annoyed at having to chase Kappa everywhere.
"No Kappa would stop just because they were told to." Kappa waved him off, jumping onto a higher building.
Gangi Kozo flung a strip of water at Kappa, only for it to be deflected easily. The Shikoku yokai grew angrier and angrier at how Kappa was easily deflecting each of his attacks.
When they reached the rooftop, Kappa stopped, his back facing his foe.
"Finally decided to stop running?" Gangi Kozo took his stances, getting ready.
"I was not running away," Kappa turned around.
Gangi Kozo gaped at the large water sphere Kappa was holding in his hands. It was almost twice the size of the wielder.
"This sphere just took a while to make." Kappa gave a serene look, before jumping up, "Here's a gift to you: Kappa Ninpo Hiden, Mizuchidama!"
Gangi Kozo was unable to get away and took full force of the sphere, forcing him backwards before it exploded, sending the yokai flying off somewhere.
Kappa landed back on the ground, "Whew." He had another serene look on his face.
"That was fun!"
Will be the one to unite them together
"Just give up already," Kejoro shook her head. "I did not even give my all the last time we fought, and now that I did, can't you see you are losing?"
Kagibari-Onna glared, her body filled with scratches and bruises.
"Give it up, there's no way you can beat the Nura clan. Just look around you." Kejoro snapped her tessen close.
"W-Who is going to give up?!" Kagibari-Onna bit out. "We, the Shikoku yokais, will definitely rule over the yokais!"
"Why are you trying so hard?" Kejoro did not understand. "Is your leader that worth following?"
Kagibari-Onna flinched, "O-Of course! Tamazuki-sama's Fear will bring everyone down to their knees!"
Kejoro relaxed her stance a little, seeing the hesitation in Kagibari-Onna, "…Fear…huh?"
Will be the one to unite them together
"You will all lose!" Inugami growled out, thrashing against the red threads that bound his separated head.
"It's useless," Kubinashi tightened his hold on his strings. "These strings have the personality of Kejoro's. Once she fell for someone, she would never let go. And the more you struggle, the tighter it gets."
"Tamazuki," Inugami continued thrashing, not hearing a thing Kubinashi was saying, "Tamazuki will crash all of you, and take us to a whole new world!"
Will be the one to unite them together
Tamazuki glanced around, "Looks like the battle is going against us."
"Yet, you don't seem worried," Rikun observed, taking in Tamazuki's relaxed form.
"Because I have expected this. Weaklings…all of them." Tamazuki swung his sword, "But even weaklings have their uses."
Confusion lit in Rikun's eyes, "…What?"
"Yes…" Tamazuki turned to his subordinates, "I am going to use you all."
The Shikoku yokais nearby gasped when Tamazuki pointed his sword at them. Before anyone could comprehend, yokais left and right were being lacerated.
"W-What?!" Tsurara was in disbelief.
Will be the one to unite them together
Kubinashi swiveled his head, in the direction where Tamazuki was. "T-This aura-!"
Inugami's struggles intensified, "It's Tamazuki!"
"Wha-" Kubinashi was shoved back as Inugami snapped out of his confinements.
"Tamazuki!" Inugami rushed upwards, reunited with his body that he had separated from to find Rikun. He landed on top of one of the buildings to have a better look at the situation.
Will be the one to unite them together
"W-What? Tamazuki-sama?" Kagibari-Onna was in horror, eyes wide at Tamazuki cutting down their comrades without any hesitation.
"W-Why is he cutting down his own comrades?" Kejoro was stunned as well.
With each successful kill, the sword Tamazuki held grew in power as it absorbed the powers of the killed yokais. So much that skulls, flesh and other unmentionable things appeared on the blade.
"…That sword is alive." Rikun narrowed his eyes, watching the killed yokais disappearing into ashes, only to be sucked into the sword.
"Tamazuki-sama! Why…! Our comrades…! Please stop…!" Kagibari-Onna moved towards Tamazuki, trying to stop this insanity. "You promised to bring us into a new world, right? Why would yo-"
The female yokai was slashed before she could even finish her sentence.
Kejoro gasped.
"Is your leader that worth following?"
I…am actually not certain…or maybe I did…I just…tried not to think about it…
Kagibari-Onna felt herself falling backwards, looking towards the sky, where she could see Inugami perched on top of one of the buildings. Her body became numbed and dropped heavily to the ground.
Inugami…you told me that, no matter what, you would follow Tamazuki-sama…you, who is so fiercely loyal, who fought harder just for him, who would do anything to please him…who gave such a kind and sheepish smile just because I praised you for being the most loyal out of everyone else…
Tears stained the wide unseeing eyes, as the memory of Inugami smiling so kindly and tenderly flashed through her mind. Kagibari-Onna tried reaching a hand out to Inugami, her vision blurring.
I followed him…only because I was just plain scared of him…not of his Fear…What about you, Inugami…?
Those were her last thoughts before the sword, which pulsed in power, took her in.
"Why you-!" Kejoro tried to attack Tamazuki, only to be held back by Kubinashi, who shook his head.
"Rikun!" Zen rushed forward, with both the injured Gyuki clan members and Rikuo, whom were carried by Shoei.
"Mao's Hammer?" Rikun questioned, after hearing from the three informants, holding Rikuo carefully when the Young Master seemed to have some trouble standing.
Gozumaru nodded, pushing his grudge for Rikun aside for now, "It's the treasure for the Shikoku yokais."
"It was used to destroy yokais and to conquer the world…" Mezumaru nodded in thanks when Tsurara helped him up, "It increases in strength by absorbing the power of the yokais it slays."
"…I see." Rikun looked towards Tamazuki, who was ignoring pleads of mercy from his comrades.
A tug on his kimono drew his attention to his brother, who was struggling to stand up.
"That sword…too powerful…" Rikuo panted out. "He killed…all the yokais…that took me…"
"So that's why you sound so panicked…Rikuo, what's wrong?" Rikun asked, holding Rikuo up when his legs threatened to give out.
"…Young Master took a few blows from that sword to protect us," Mezumaru cringed, recalling how the sword had pierced Rikuo. "…And used up almost all his strength when he activate his Fear to help us get away."
Rikun, as well as Zen, Shoei and Tsurara, hitched their breaths when they heard that killer sword had struck Rikuo. Rikun immediately reached his hand to his own injures, smearing it with his blood and pressed it on Rikuo's lips.
"In…jured…?" Rikuo weakly muttered, licking the bloodied hand.
"Never mind that," Rikun took off his blue cloak and wrapped it around Rikuo. "Zen, Shoei, Yuki-Onna, take Rikuo, Gozumaru and Mezumaru to a safe place first, they are in no condition to fight."
"Ri…kun…" Rikuo tried to protest as Shoei carried him again.
"No, Rikuo," Rikun cut off any protests, "Don't forget that you lend me your sight earlier, that must have taken a lot out of you already and to add to your injuries…"
"You gave us a scare earlier when you suddenly could not see," Zen agreed, giving support to Gozumaru.
Rikuo sighed in defeat and shifted his eyes. He gasped softly when he saw something.
"Rikuo?"
Rikuo weakly pointed to the side, "K-Keikain-san…!"
Rikun turned around and saw that Yura was indeed there, facing Tamazuki.
Will be the one to unite them together
Yura finally arrived at the scene. She stumbled slightly feeling the evil aura.
"Such an evil feeling…" Yura narrowed her eyes, looking up at the sky where crows could be seen flying about everywhere.
The moment she saw the yokais, she whipped out all four of her shikigamis and attacked, "You are not going anywhere, yokais!" Her shikigamis wiped out all the surrounding yokais, destroying nearby windows and buildings.
Halfway vanquishing the yokais, Yura paused when a figure stood in front of her.
W-What? T-This feeling…is massive!
Tamazuki stood there, Mao's Hammer pulsing with more and more power in his hand.
"Onmyoji, Keikain Yura, right?" Tamazuki enquired, making Yura realized that this was the person, who she and Kana met earlier.
But I must exterminate him!
"I won't allow you to hurt any of the people here!" Yura aimed Rentei at him, "Yomi Okuri, Yura MAX-"
Tamazuki struck before Yura could fire, reverting Rentei back into a shikigami paper. The other three shikigamis took action, seeing their master being attacked, but was easily dispelled with just a few swing from Tamazuki.
At the same time, Kana arrived on a bridge, panting at having to run. She gasped when she saw Yura fighting against a yokai.
Yura widened her eyes, helplessly watching her shikigamis being taken down like rag dolls. A grip on her throat snapped her out of her thoughts. She choked as Tamazuki raised her into the air, his sword readied to stab her.
"Yura-chan!" Kana yelled out, hoping for someone to stop this.
"Hhaahhhh!" Rikun sprint towards Tamazuki and cut off his arm that was holding Yura. Along with it, Rikun also got part of his mask off, showing a crazed look on Tamazuki. The Third Heir gripped Yura by the arm and pulled her back, far away from Tamazuki, who did not seem to have noticed his right arm was cut off.
"W-What…? Don't touch me, you…yokai!" Yura shrugged Rikun's hand off harshly.
Rikun did not seem bothered by this, "Get back. This is my fight. Go and protect the humans that still lingers around."
"Why should I listen to yo- wait," Yura had a look of disbelief. " 'Protect the humans'? Why would you…?"
Why…?
Yura glanced at the yokais that stood near Rikun. Blinking, she noticed three of them seem to be injured. She recognized one of the injured yokais as the one who attacked them at Ume Rakuen and the one holding the red-clothed child looked extremely…familiar. Her eyes shifted to the tallest yokai among them, and onto the one the huge yokai was carrying.
Can't see the face...
Thankfully, Shoei was facing sideways to Yura, making Yura unable to see Rikuo properly.
Yura narrowed her eyes.
Shoei noticed the gaze and accidently turned a little, revealing a bit of Rikuo's hair.
Yura was stunned when she caught sight the color of the hair.
Brown…! But that's…! No, it can't be…
A scream disrupted her from further analysis. She quickly turned around and saw Kana being held hostage by a yokai with his tongue sticking out.
"Ienaga-san!"
"Kana-chan…" Rikuo bit his lips, feeling frustrated at his worthlessness.
"You…" Rikun growled out, having to draw back his weapon at an innocent being dragged into this. "Are Shikoku yokais that fond of dirty methods?"
"Heh," Inugami scoffed, having returned back to his human form to grab Kana. "You are surprisingly weak when humans come in play. This is what you get for trying to protect humans!"
"Protect humans?" Kana widened her eyes, feeling inwardly relief that the white-black hair yokai was on their side, and that she was not wrong about him.
Yura winced when she heard that, still skeptical that a yokai wanted to protect humans.
"Now, Tamazuki," Inugami, now standing beside his leader, licked on Kana's neck. "Now's your chance to take down the pain in the neck! Complete your Fear!"
The human girl screamed in fright, not wanting to feel that tongue on her neck.
*Rikun…please calm Kana-chan down, she's scared.*
*Ah, I know. Her fear is giving them power as well.*
"Don't worry."
Both Inugami and Kana looked at Rikun.
"You will be safe," Rikun assured Kana, smiling when Rikuo gave him a warm thanks through the link.
Kana felt her fear fade away with just that few words, encouraged by the smile Rikun had. She gave a bright smile and nodded.
"Such brave acts," Inugami snarled in disgust. "Tamazuki, take him down now. Take over his Fear and complete your Fear! Show me the new world you are always telling me abou-"
Kana was able to get away from Inugami when he suddenly loosen his grip and went to where Yura was. Yura stood protectively in front of Kana, not wanting a second repeat of what happened earlier.
Rikun twitched in disgust, also hearing Rikuo's own incredulity in his mind. Even Yura and Kana expressed shock.
Tamazuki had stabbed Mao's Hammer into Inugami.
Inugami fell to the ground after Tamazuki took out the sword from his body. He shakily looked up at Tamazuki, "T-Tamazuki…? W-What are you…? W-What's wrong? What are you d-doing?"
"Thank you so much, Inugami," Tamazuki had a pleased tone in his voice. "Your hatred will be the one to bring Mao's Hammer into perfection."
"W-Why?" Inugami weakly clung to Tamazuki's leg, "I-I did all this for you...you are the one who awakened the power inside me…that's why I follow you…you said you will show me a whole new world-"
"You are really a loyal dog, Inugami," Tamazuki cruelly stabbed Inugami one more time. "But I would prefer it when he is able to fight back instead of standing there letting me kill him because of an insignificant human."
The moment he finished, Mao's Hammer took in Inugami, making it pulse even greater.
"I thought that you and I are similar, but it seems I was wrong," Tamazuki shook his head in disappointment. "Choosing to pull back because of a human."
"They are totally different," Kana said, frowning at Tamazuki.
Yura, even though hating both yokais, nodded in agreement.
"Shall we finish this? Let me show you my Fear!" Tamazuki rushed towards Rikun, who returned the gesture.
Rikun jumped to avoid the swing of the Mao's Hammer and stepping onto Tamazuki's back, he propelled himself to the top of the new building. Tamazuki immediately followed him, while the rest of the surviving yokais took another route to follow them, intending to see the outcome.
Yura and Kana stood there watching them leave. Yura shifted her eyes on the blue cloak that fluttered out of Shoei's arms. The brown hair visible near the cloak, fixed itself on Yura's mind.
"Oiiiiii! Yokai!"
The two human girls turned to find the rest of the Kiyojuji Squad rushing towards them.
"Oh? If it isn't Ienaga-kun and Yura-kun!" Kiyotsugu happily greeted the moment he reached them. "As expected of being part of the Kiyojuji Squad!"
"You two have already arrived?" Saori asked, panting from running all the way here.
"And? Where are all the yokais? The home page I designed was filled with comments of yokais sightings right over here," Kiyotsugu looked around. "Oiiiiii! Yokais! Come out, wherever you are!"
Yura and Kana glanced at each other, before looking up towards the building, where Rikun had led Tamazuki.
Noticing where they were looking at, Kiyotsugu went to the building, "Are they up there? Let's go then!"
"Don't go!" Yura stopped him, "This is out of our hands. Do not go after them."
"W-Well…if the Onmyoji says so…" Kiyotsugu awkwardly stayed put, despite really wanting to see the yokais. Natsumi, Saori and Jiro sighed in relief.
"…I wonder if he will be all right?" Kana wondered, looking worried.
"Who knows…" Yura looked at the building, "It's a battle between monsters, anything could happen."
Kana hesitated, "I…don't really see him as a monster. He was trying to protect humans, so he must have a human heart too, right?"
Yura jerked at the unexpected conclusion.
"That's right!"
Everyone turned to Kiyotsugu, who had a fist pumped up.
"Just as there are bad and good humans, yokais should be the same as well! There are definitely yokais out there that are our allies!" Kiyotsugu nodded determinedly. "My life was saved by such a yokai, who called himself a Nurarihyon. And I will never forget it! I will definitely find him and thank him for saving me during that bus incident!"
"Well said, Kiyotsugu-kun!" Jiro grinned.
"Even though it was doubtful he actually saw the yokai since he was half-asleep," Saori teased, knowing that Kiyotsugu was the only one who had not met a single yokai.
Kiyotsugu deflated at that.
"Well, maybe you will meet them some day," Natsumi comforted him.
Yura had tuned their conversation out by this time and was thinking really hard.
…So, even among yokais, there are ones that had lost their hearts and ones that retained their's.
Yura gazed up, where an ominous aura surrounded the roof of the building.
"…There's nothing else we can do…We should head home."
Will be the one to unite them together
CLINK
Rikun and Tamazuki tested each other's strength, trying to gain an advantage over the other.
"Now, there will be no nuisances to interrupt us," Tamazuki pushed harder. "We can fight to our heart's content."
"…I don't know any nuisance," Rikun gritted his teeth. "I have comrades, though."
"Those who stands at the top has no need for comrades!" Tamazuki shouted. "I will be the lord of all yokais! Just look at my Night Parade! This is my Fear! Did you see it?!"
Indeed he did, Rikun saw-
"…All I see, is you carrying the corpse of yokais on your back," Rikun gazed upon the slain yokais that were perched on Tamazuki's back, Inugami and Kagibari-Onna included. "You know, Tamazuki. Just what are we suppose to feel from this Fear that you kept talking about?"
All the other yokais arrived at the battle scene, standing at the sidelines, just in time to hear what Rikun was saying.
"No one is going to follow someone who bears the corpse of his comrades. The lord of yokais isn't like that! I realized that when I formed my own Night Parade!"
Rikun's Night Parade smiled together as one, understanding where he was coming from.
"He's strong," Tsurara stared at Rikun.
"Intelligent," Kejoro continued.
"You just can't hate him, no matter what," Aotabo grinned.
Kubinashi nodded, "And that's why…all of us…"
"Followed him," Kurotabo smiled.
"And will be willing to do anything for him," Kappa closed his eyes.
Zen stood at one side, still holding on to Gozumaru.
"Why did you exchange Sakazuki with me and Rikuo?"
"…What?"
"…Is it because you played with us since young? Jiji and Oyaji did told us to get along…" Rikun looked down, unable to look at his sworn brother in the eyes. "…If you did not know us, will you still do the same? Will you-"
"You better stop before I decide to hit you, Nura Rikun."
Rikun jerked in surprise. He looked back up and saw Zen glaring at him.
"What brought this on?"
"…"
Zen scrutinized the silent yokai before him and gave a snort, "Idiot…No matter the circumstances, I would, and will, still do the same."
Rikun blinked, "…Eh?"
"Not because of how long we have known each other, not because we were told to get along," Zen folded his arms. "But simply because Rikun is Rikun, and Rikuo is Rikuo."
"Zen…?"
"When I first met the both of you, I was thinking, 'These brats are going to take over the Nura clan in the future? Impossible!'," Zen chuckled when Rikun glared at being called a brat. "But as time passes, my thoughts changed to, 'They are going to take over the Nura clan.', 'Will they be all right?' and 'What can I do to keep them safe?'…"
Rikun widened his eyes, never realizing how strong Zen's feelings were.
Zen moved forward and pressed a hand on Rikun's head, startling the younger yokai, "I saw how the brats grew up, I saw how they cared for everyone in the house, I saw the love that shines in their eyes…It was then, I knew that I will follow those two to the end of my life," Zen ruffled Rikun's hair. "And it will stay that way, you idiot little brother of mine."
Rikun gave another blink before his bangs hid away his eyes. He smirked and slapped Zen's hand away, "Don't touch me, you bird."
"Brat," Zen grinned. He then turned around to give Rikun some privacy.
That little brother needs time to clear those liquids from his eyes.
Zen smirked proudly.
That's right, show him, Rikun!
Shoei recalled what his father had told him and finally understood what his father was talking about.
I see…Fear is…
"That's why…Fear, aside it being a weapon, is also a form of admiration…and adoration for us yokais. That…was the kind of feeling we are always getting from Jii-chan and Otou-san."
Everyone turned to look at Rikuo, who was smiling adoringly at Rikun in Shoei's arms.
Rikun smirked, gaining the strength to push Tamazuki away.
"…Heh! Anyone who looks down on me will be eliminated!" Tamazuki raised his sword into the air. "Awaken, Mao's Hammer!"
The sword pulsed as Tamazuki's hair stated merging with it, and the flesh on it grew longer, heading towards Rikun.
Rikun moved to dodge it, but was stopped when he felt a sensation in his chest. In turn for this mistake, he was struck on the shoulder.
The Nura clan gasped in horror.
Rikuo looked around, trying to find the source of Rikun's moment of weakness. He gasped when he saw light breaking out in the sky, "It's dawn…!"
"Damn it!" Zen cursed. "Yokai's power decreased in the day, Rikun's at a disadvantage!"
Since the power he was using came from the sword, night or day, Tamazuki was not affected by any of this. "If you get hit one more time, it will definitely be a fatal one." Tamazuki let the sword's flesh wrapped itself around Rikun, taking him high up in the air, making Rikun dropped Nenekirimaru to the ground.
Rikun grunted in pain, trying to struggle out of the binds, "…I won't lose…I have people waiting for me!"
I can't get out…!
"You mean those standing over there?" Tamazuki scorned, "I wouldn't let it bother you. After all, I will make them part of my Night Parade soon, including that brother of yours!"
…What did he just say?
"…" Rikun shadowed his eyes, "…Don't mess with me."
Rikuo was going to ask someone to help Rikun when he saw something startling.
"Eh…?"
"What's wrong, Young Master?" Shoei asked, hearing the soft murmur.
"Just now…petals of cherry blossoms…"
"Petals?" Kubinashi looked at Rikun, "I don't see anything like that, Rikuo-sama…"
Will be the one to unite them together
~Back at the Nura main house~
Yamabuki clasped her hands together in a form of prayer.
"You can do it, Rikun-kun. Good luck."
Will be the one to unite them together
~With Rikun~
"…Kaika," Everyone heard Rikun muttered, "Hyoryu Yuki!"
"W-What?" Tamazuki looked around for something to happen, but there was nothing. "…Huh. A desperate attempt to distract me? Now, Nura Rikun, you shall become part of my Night Parade!"
The moment he moved, Tamazuki felt something hitting his sides from different directions. "Urgh! Urg! W-What?! What's attacking me?!"
"He can't see?" Kurotabo questioned.
"Just what is that?" Shoei narrowed his eyes.
"But I see it," Kejoro said.
"Yes…I can see it now as well," Kubinashi nodded.
"That's…" Kappa trailed off.
"A cherry blossom blizzard surrounding Third Heir and Tamazuki," Aotabo said.
Rikuo stared as those petals encircled the two yokais, and sliced towards Tamazuki each time he moved, "I have seen this before…"
"You have, Rikuo?" Zen looked towards Rikuo.
"Un," Rikuo nodded, "That's…Yamabuki Okaa-san's technique!"
Rikun was loosened due to the distraction Tamazuki faced. Landing onto the ground, Rikun quickly reached for his sword, just as the blizzard of petals faded away.
"I don't know what you just did," Tamazuki ignored the wounds he received. "But you will go down!"
"Rikun!" Rikuo yelled out worriedly as Tamazuki charged towards Rikun.
A glint appeared in the crimson eyes, "I am a bit irritated."
Tamazuki sliced Rikun at the abdominal, which dissipated into shadows.
"W-What? W-Why are you still standing?! I cut you down!" Tamazuki was in shock. "A Nurarihyon's technique?! W-Whatever! I will be the one to surpass my father and become the lord of yokais!"
The Tanuki hacked through Rikun, who simply dissolved into shadows. Tamazuki frantically looked around for Rikun.
"It's not your father who you should surpass," Tamazuki heard from above him. Lifting his head up, he saw Rikun raising his sword.
"The one you should surpass…" Nenekirimaru swung down. "Is yourself!"
"Arghhhhhh!" Tamazuki fell to the ground, his left shoulder being cut into. In the process, Tamazuki released Mao's Hammer, which dropped to the ground. His mask totally broke, showing Tamazuki's face, which was filled with horror as the yokais, that was accumulated, dispersed the instant Tamazuki was hit.
"N-No! M-My Night Parade…! J-Just what went wrong…?!"
Rikun landed on the ground as well, stumbling slightly due to his wounds. "…Shoei…I shall leave you the final blow. Avenge your father." He walked towards the mentioned yokai and gestured him to pass Rikuo.
This surprised Shoei, but he nodded, thankful of the Third Heir. Once Rikuo was situated in Rikun's arms, Shoei turned his attention to the still horrified yokai.
"This…is for my father!" Shoei reached for his sword and brought it down.
CLINK
Shoei halted, as he hit a blade instead of flesh.
"Whew. We made it just in time!" Rihan ran a wrist across his forehead, while the other hand was holding a sword and stopping Shoei's attack.
"S-Second Heir!" Shoei immediately ceased.
"Oyaji!"
"Otou-san!"
Both brothers echoed, surprised to see their father and looked up when they heard flapping of wings.
"By just a few inch," Karasu Tengu agreed, carrying Nurarihyon by the clothes, while Kuroumaru and Tosakamaru held Danuki, with Sasami at the side, having dropped Rihan down.
The Nura clan burst into relief, finally seeing their Supreme Commanders after such a long time.
"Looks like all of you are well," Nurarihyon acknowledged their relief, allowing Karasu Tengu to drop him beside Rihan.
"Tamazuki, stop this right now!" Danuki called out, as he got nearer, the crow yokais flying him down, going to land him near Rikun and Rikuo.
A hand shakily reached for Mao's Hammer, "I see…it must be because it is not perfect yet, if it had my father's powers, it will be perfect!"
With that, Tamazuki gripped Mao's Hammer and ran towards his father who was still in mid air.
"What?!" Nurarihyon and Rihan gasped out, alarmed at the sudden act, but not having the time to go after Tamazuki, who was almost reaching Danuki.
"Haaaaaahhhh!"
Tamazuki tried to slay his father. However, a figure, or rather, two figures, blocked his way. The smaller figure launched a kick on Tamazuki's hand and flung Mao's Hammer off the building, while the larger figure pressed a foot on the chest, forcing Tamazuki on his back.
Tamazuki tried to get up, only to come face to face with the tip of Nenekirimaru. He followed to the end of the sword, where two different hands grip the handle.
"I find it rather ironic that you are trying to built a world without humans, and yet you are using a weapon that is made by humans," Rikun told him, his foot pressed slightly harder to keep Tamazuki in place.
Rikuo frowned, "There are some yokais…who chose to follow your Fear…who admire you…but you betrayed them…" Rikuo tugged Nenekirimaru back, prompting Rikun to do the same. "The least you can do is take care of them…"
Rikun softened his eyes, and moved away from Tamazuki, following Rikuo's wish. He sheathed Nenekirimaru and reached for Rikuo, as the latter's knees buckled.
Tamazuki could only watch them, dazed that they actually let him go.
Danuki jumped out of Kuroumaru's and Tosakamaru's hold, transforming into his original form along the way, causing a small earthquake when he land on the roof.
"H-Huge!" Some yokais gasped out.
"Y-You fool!" Danuki scooped Tamazuki up with just one hand, "You idiotic fool!"
Some yokais shut their eyes as they saw Danuki raising the other hand, seemingly going to crush Tamazuki.
"…You stupid son of mine…" Danuki placed the hand down on the ground, and kneeled before the Nurarihyons, making all the yokais gave sounds of surprise.
"Please...forgive him," Danuki pleaded, forehead touching the ground, "He may have strayed, but...he is still one of my beloved children...so please..."
"..." Tamazuki stared up at his father, stunned that he was begging just so his son could live.
"...The decision is yours, Rikun, Rikuo," Rihan told them, his head bowed slightly, feeling a spark of respect for the Tanuki father.
The brothers glanced at Shoei.
Shoei blinked and looked at the still bowing yokai. He softened his eyes. Seeing Danuki acting like this, strangely reminded him of his own father. He gave a soft smile and nodded to the Nura brothers.
They nodded back.
"In that case," Rikun started.
"We have a condition…" Rikuo smiled tiredly.
Will be the one to unite them together
The Nura clan watched, as the remaining Shikoku yokais, as well as Danuki and Tamazuki, left.
"Well, glad that, that was all over with." Rihan went to his sons and gently clasped them on the shoulder, "Are you both all right?"
Rikun closed his eyes, finally succumbing to the pain and kneeled down, bringing Rikuo with him.
"R-Rikun…" Rikuo tried to help him, but his headache chose that moment to flare up, causing him to grip his head in reflex.
"Oi, oi," Rihan quickly supported them, seeing them wobbling.
"Stupid Mao's Hammer…" Rikun muttered into Rikuo's hair, resting his head against his brother's.
The Third Heir and Young Master suddenly felt the hands on their shoulders tightened, and feeling their wounds started healing. They looked up and saw Rihan staring at them rather frightfully.
"O-Otou-san?" Rikuo asked, not used to their father staring at them like that. Even Rikun blinked at the unusual sight.
Rihan said nothing, but the glow on his hands intensified, speeding up the healing process.
Rikun and Rikuo flinched, the sudden healing speed gave quite an unpleasant feeling, and the feeling only increased as Rihan healed them silently.
"Rihan."
The mentioned yokai jerked into a stop when his hands were slapped away.
Nurarihyon patted his grandsons on the head to assure them before looking at his son, "You are scaring everyone."
Rihan blinked and looked around. Every yokai was staring at him, including two pairs of crimson and brown eyes. He swallowed and ran a hand through his hair.
"Second Heir…" Kubinashi reached a hand out in concern.
Rihan laughed nervously, and waved Kubinashi's hand off, "Sorry, sorry. I don't know what came over me."
Nurarihyon watched Rihan trying to break the awkward moment by laughing it off. He then coughed, gaining everyone's attention.
"Shall we head back?"
Will be the one to unite them together
The Mao's Hammer fell towards the ground at a constant speed after Rikuo had kicked it off.
Just as it was about to hit the ground, a pair of delicate hands caught it. Red eyes surveyed the top of the building, where cheers of yokais could be heard.
A tilt of the head and a jump, the figure disappeared, leaving only a few black feathers behind.
Will be the one to unite them together
~Two days later~
"Ah! I have to go to schoo-ack…"
"You are still in no condition to go anywhere. Besides, it's Sunday, there's no need to go to that school of yours."
"Urgh…I can't believe I skipped school for three whole days…"
"You want to go against Zen's orders? Now rest some more."
"…Why are you in my room, anyways?"
"Hm? Zen told me to get some rest so I can feel better. I feel better here."
"Really…what's the point of you having a room, you might as well sleep here."
"…That's not a bad idea."
"W-Wha-! Go back to your room!"
"I'm hurt, Rikuo."
The door slid open, revealing the Rikun hovering on top of Rikuo, with the latter trying to push the former away while blushing. They both turned, noticing they had audiences.
"Ah! Okaa-san! Yamabuki Okaa-san!" Rikuo quickly pushed Rikun aside, ignoring the pained grunt, "Good morning!"
"Good morning, both of you," Wakana greeted them with a big smile, "According to Zen-san, you should be fine to move around now, although you still need to take it easy…Oh! I have to do chores now. I'm leaving the rest to you, Yamabuki-chan!"
Yamabuki nodded, the three of them watching Wakana hummed happily as she left.
"Okaa-san sure is energetic," Rikuo remarked, slowly getting up.
"Un…" Yamabuki smiled. "Even when all of you came back exhausted and injured…she never asked any question and simply welcomed you back. It was oddly comforting."
Rikun noticed his mother's solemn state. His eyes softened. He stepped closer to his mother and simply gave a reassuring look to her.
The flower yokai beamed back, glad that her son knew just what to do to comfort her. "By the way, Nurarihyon-sama and Rihan asked to see the both of you once you have awakened."
"Un," Rikun stretched himself. "You ready, Rikuo?"
Rikuo nodded, stepping out of the room and past by Yamabuki, "See you later, Yamabuki Okaa-san."
Yamabuki waved.
"Oh. Almost forgot to tell you, Okaa-san."
"Hm?" Yamabuki turned, just in time to see Rikun smirking as he walked past her.
"…Thanks for teaching me your technique. It really helped me."
Black eyes followed Rikun, who strode up to Rikuo, teasing the younger yokai.
A soft giggle escaped.
"You are welcome, my son."
Will be the one to unite them together
~Somewhere else~
A wave crashed against a cliff, making tiny droplets of water scattered about before joining back to its original body.
Tamazuki was seen at the top of the cliff, staring at a few stones, which had words engraved on them, in front of him.
"In that case," Rikun started.
"We have a condition…" Rikuo smiled tiredly.
"That he build a memorial to those, whom became sacrifices," Both brothers finished in unison.
Tamazuki took a deep breath and let it out through his nose. A bark behind him caught his attention.
A dog?
He looked behind as the dog came closer. The first thing he noticed was the way the dog hung his tongue outside the mouth. Staring for a while, Tamazuki moved away, intending to leave. However, the dog barked a few more times and followed him.
"Hm?" Tamazuki glanced back at the dog. "Are you following me?"
The dog barked, as if responding him.
"What a strange creature," Tamazuki commented.
Then, the corner of his lips curled up without his permission.
"I won't be indulging you."
A couple more barks came as an answer.
Will be the one to unite them together
~Back at the Nura main house~
"And with that, the Shikoku incident is resolved with Third Heir and Young Master striking a deal with the Shikoku yokais. That is all." Mokugyo told Hitotsume, who was not about to let this all go so easily.
"What?! With just a deal?! After all the destructio-whoaaaa!" Hitotsume found himself being dragged backwards by Shoei. "W-What are you doing, Shoei?!"
"You are blocking the way, Hitotsume-Oji." Shoei dragged Hitotsume back to his seat, away from the door he was blocking.
Just in time too, as the door slid open, revealing Rikun with Rikuo beside him.
"Hm?" Rikun turned and saw Hitotsume in a sprawled out manner and assumed he must have moved for him. He gave a smirk, "Thanks, Hitotsume-Jiji."
"A-Ah…" Hitotsume stuttered out, as Rikuo gave a smile as well before the brothers walked in, followed by Rihan and Nurarihyon.
After they were seated down, Karasu Tengu started the meeting by greeting them, "We have been looking forward to this meeting. Firstly, welcome back, Supreme Commanders, as well as Third Heir and Young Master, for a safe return after a victorious fight against the Shikoku yokais."
"Welcome back!" Every yokai present greeted, bowing down.
All four Nurarihyons smiled in return.
"Secondly," Karasu Tengu flew to Shoei. "Although Hihi is completely healed, he has decided to let his son take over, so from now on, Shoei will be attending as the head of his clan."
Shoei bowed his head, and looked at Rikun, who gave a pleased nod.
Oyaji…I believe that I have made my decision on whether I should follow the Third Heir…along with the Young Master too.
The huge yokai glanced at the yokai beside the Third Heir. Said yokai was smiling and nodding happily. A smile appeared on Shoei's face, and he nodded back at the both of them.
"Finally," Rihan stood up, "Let's give a toast for Rikun's and Rikuo's own Night Parade!"
Rikun smirked while Rikuo grinned. The yokais that had pledged loyalty to Rikun, had also exchanged Sakazuki with Rikuo just yesterday.
A cherry blossom petal slowly floated its way across the room, to which Nurarihyon noticed. He chortled heartily, knowing it was Yohime's way of congratulating her grandsons.
"Cheers!"
Will be the one to unite them together
~Later~
Rikun and Rikuo had retreated back to Rikuo's room when the other yokais were started to get drunk from the sake they were drinking.
Settling down, Rikuo poured sake for the both of them. He then offered one of the cups to Rikun, who graciously accepted it.
"Thanks for all the hard work, Rikun."
Rikun opened one of his eyes, which he had closed while he was drinking, to see Rikuo smiling warmly at him. "…You as well, Rikuo."
Both of them gazed into each other's eyes happily, relishing at the relaxing atmosphere.
"Although…"
Rikuo placed his cup down at the sudden change of tone Rikun had.
Rikun leaned forward, giving quite a look to Rikuo, who blushed at the sudden close proximity. "…I have yet to punish you for pulling such a stupid stunt when you tried to help Shoei."
Brown eyes widened before squeezed shut as Rikun came closer, afraid that Rikun was going to bite him again.
"…Tell me you love me."
"E-Eh?" Rikuo snapped his eyes open, realizing that Rikun was now directly in front of him, "R-Rikun…"
"I love you, Rikuo. Do you?" Rikun did not even bat an eye at how forward he was being.
"Ah…" Rikuo felt himself weakening as Rikun leaned even closer, "I…"
Their faces started coming closer.
"I-I…" Rikuo could not help but shied his eyes away as those crimson eyes seemed to stare right into his soul.
Their lips were just inches apart, the gap slowly decreasing.
"I lo-"
BANG
"Nura-kun! We came to visit!" Kiyotsugu beamed so widely with his eyes closed. When he reopened his eyes, he saw Rikuo staring at him with a totally flushed face. "Hm? What's wrong, Nura-kun?"
"K-Kiyojuji-san…" Rikuo could only stare, his heart still beating loudly at the unexpected appearance. He sweatdropped a little when he could almost see veins popping out from the, now invisible, figure beside him.
"Hey, Nura!" Jiro came behind Kiyotsugu and waved.
Natsumi, Saori, Yura and Kana came behind Jiro and greeted as well.
"E-Everyone! W-What brings you here?" Rikuo stood up, trying to calm his heart.
"We came to play," Saori saluted Rikuo with two fingers. "As well as to see you, you have been absent from school for three days you know?"
"A-Ah…" Rikuo invited them into his room.
"Hm? Why are there two cups here?" Natsumi asked, picking up one of the cups. "Were you drinking with someone?"
"A-Ahahahaha..."
"As always…" Yura looked at Rikuo. "The presence of yokais is incredibly strong in your house…in fact I could almost feel a yokai in your room."
The sweatdrop on Rikuo's head grew even more, "I-Is that so…" He then gave a start when Kana abruptly appeared in front of him, so close that their face was just a few inches apart. "K-Kana-chan?"
Yura leaned forward in interest.
Is she going to kiss him?
Kana's stare started making Rikuo uncomfortable, before she spoke, "A little…You look like him a little."
Rikuo smiled awkwardly, "Like who?"
Yura watched the both of them before recalling what she saw a few days back.
The brown hair visible near the cloak, fixed itself on Yura's mind.
She heaved out a sigh, and looked out of Rikuo's room, where the cherry blossom tree were.
Perched right at the highest branch of the tree, where no one was able to see, Rikun sat there, folding his arms in an almost annoyed fashion, a vein popped on his head at being interrupted once again. He glanced down and saw Rikuo trying to accommodate with the sudden intrusion.
A sigh unintentionally came out.
"…There's always next time, I guess…" Rikun leaned on the tree and closed his eyes, hoping to catch some sleep, "After all…"
"Our life has just begun."
~The End~
And with that, "Life as a Nurarihyon" has come to an end. *Bows deeply* Thank you to those who have followed, favorited and reviewed this story. I thank each and every one of you for the support you have given me, for without it, I would not have been able to finish this story.
Of course, there are still a number of question you probably have in regards to this story. All these questions will be answered when the sequel is out. Yes, there will be a sequel, just like in the anime. However, I probably will take a longer time in making it as I decided to finish my other stories first before starting a new one (And because I need to plan it carefully instead of going it head on like I did in this story), so I hope all of you will wait for it! *Big smile*
But here are some things you should know that happens in this chapter:
About Jiro's reaction (In which he sighed in relief with Saori and Natsumi) – At the beginning of the story, he was really into yokais, since Kiyotsugu was into it as well(Being his close friend), however, after meeting Inugami at the abandon building, he became slightly wary of yokais.
The talk about dark and light – As mentioned in the story, dark represents yokais and light represents the humans. Tamazuki was saying that since humans fear yokais, yokais should just kill humans for their uselessness. He wants Rikun to join him in killing humans. Rikun, however, refused, saying that yokais existed because of humans(which is very true to some yokai, like Kurotabo), and that humans will become more motivated because of yokais(like Kiyotsugu). So it's like a cycle. When Rikun said that, 'Only when there is a mix of both, will they both thrive.', he was actually referring to himself and Rikuo.
Why Rikuo was so weak during the battle – Taking a few hits from Mao's Hammer is no small feat. Even Rikun, who just took three hits from the Mao's Hammer, was weakened. To add on, Rikuo had no prior experience to using his Fear, so helping Gozu and Mezu escape took a lot out of him, also with lending his sight to Rikun and battling the headache, which he received from Shikoku yokais to knock him out, Rikuo was already strong being awake instead of unconscious. So no, it was not on purpose if Rikuo became someone who always needs to be saved. (I'm sorry if I portrayed him that way T.T Rikuo is a very strong person!)
The new power between Rikun and Rikuo – This is just one of another powers that shows the strong connection between the brothers. They are now able to 'lend' their sights to another, also being able to see through the other's eyes. (There's a reason why they kept getting these kinds of powers, I am not making it up for fun…well not all for fun that is *Sweatdrops*) Also, this power takes time to work, it needs concentration, thus why it was delayed instead of being used immediately.
How Kana's fear gave power – Human's fear is like the foundation for yokai's Fear(That is how some yokais are born, through stories humans came up with and etc). That's why yokais, when they are young(or small yokais), likes to play pranks(In Rikun and Rikuo's case, pranking other yokais) or scare humans(like what Natto Kozo had mentioned before), as the fear the humans gave, serves as a boost to their power(However little that is). It's like becoming stronger the more they install fear in humans.
Why the yokais that Tamazuki had killed, escape the moment Tamazuki was slashed – Nenekirimaru had the power to do this. It did not happen when Rikun saved Yura because Mao's Hammer was not awakened yet (It was awakened after Rikun led Tamazuki to the roof), Mao's Hammer was only collecting power at that point of time. Nenekirimaru simply cut off Tamazuki's arm(Tamazuki was not using any yokai power, so no effect, he was too absorb with the power he wield to care about the pain), as Rikun had wanted it. Once it was awakened, Tamazuki became a part of the sword, thus enabling Nenekirimaru to do the damage of releasing the yokais.
Rikun's new move – I never did understand the sudden appearance of the cherry blossoms when Rikuo was facing Tamazuki in the anime (The manga did not even have this) So in this story, I changed it to a move that Rikun learned from Yamabuki, it fits since she's a flower yokai, and Rikun is able to learn it because, although the Nurarihyon blood in him is dominate, there is also a small percentage of Yamabuki's blood in him(being his mother and all) However, the way Rikun, being a Nurarihyon, uses this technique is a little different from Yamabuki. Further explanation below.
Goriki Raisan – A technique, which releases the skull rosary that keeps Aotabo's strength at bay.
Kappa Ninpo Hiden, Mizuchidama – A technique in which Kappa creates a sphere of water and throws it at his opponent. It takes time to create, as the sphere is very big. There is also a possibility that the opponent will suffocate within the sphere after being hit by it.
Yomi Okuri, Yura Max – A technique used by Yura when she merged with Rentei, to launched powerful water attacks.
Kaika, Hyoryu Yuki- Meaning Bloom/Blooming/Flower Bloom, Drifting Snow. It will be a hyoui technique in which the user is able to create petals/flowers, and changes them into a deadly weapon, like slicing at the enemy. In Rikun's case, since he is a Nurarihyon, the petals became invisible to the opponent (A Nurarihyon's Fear is mainly to become invisible after all), unlike Yamabuki's whose petals/flowers will remain visible.
-Oji – Informal way of calling uncle
Also, to clear some misconception that some readers have:
1. Nurarihyon is in his old man form throughout the whole story, his young form would be his yokai form.
2. Rikun and Rikuo are NOT twins. Rikun is older than Rikuo by one year.
Now addressing the reviews for the previous chapter:
To Aira Aura: I hope this chapter answered your question ^^
To 'A random person': …Are you the same person who reviewed in 'Pure', 'Tainted' and 'The Nura men'? If you are, while I am extremely flattered that you like my stories…I am severely disturbed at how young you were when you came across these stories.(I thought the restricted age to fanfiction is 13?) I must really apologize to you.(I know how you feel. I was rather young when I first came upon such contents) I truly hope I have not scarred you. If you are not the person, please ignore whatever was said above, and yes this shall be my last chapter. There will be a sequel just like in the anime. You are very welcome and thank you for taking the time to read my stories *Smiles*
To 'lead': Welcome! Uhh…if I ever did, it won't be placed in fanfiction (I have scarred someone!) And um…M-Mpreg…I-uh…I will think about it?
To twilightserius: Yes, yes she is. She believes in them. Rikuo's Fear? It's the same as Rikun's, he just had not displayed them yet. (…Did I really make Rikuo seemed weak? He's not…*Whines*) Oh, but he did had some of Yohime's power! Remember the healing blood power? It's actually because of Yohime that they even had this power in the first place. Perhaps more will be including in the sequel *Grins* Rikuo...an Omnyoji? *Snickers* Now that's an idea hahaha! But sadly no, Rikuo will just be a ¼ yokai and ¾ human, the same with Rikun who is ¾ yokai and ¼ human.
To Hayate-chan: You will always be Hayate-chan to me *Smiles widely* And wow! University! That's cool! Good luck to you! And no, I'm sure Rikun won't mind. *Smiling brightly despite the glare she was receiving at the back* Just take it easy, all right? Don't stress! *Looks on worriedly*
To xLollipopLovex: Thank you so much for your reviews! They made me laughed *Laughs* Rikun and Rikuo are not twins though…And Yup! I'm a 100% Singaporean! Want to meet up? (Totally joking here *Sweatdrop*)
To AngelXReaper: *Saying in a mysterious way* Still a long way to go…*Grins*
To Miyucchi sang Cappuccino: That's all right! *Smiles* Rikuo is already unlocking his powers as the story goes, it takes a while because…well I can't say much without spoiling the story, so you will just have to wait! Yes, there will be a sequel ^.^
To the rest who had reviewed: Thank you all so much for your support! Love you guys!
That's all I believe…if you have any other question regarding this story, I will be happy to answer you! (Although there are some things I can't reveal until the sequel) Just PM me!
And of course, Rikun was still unable to hear those words from Rikuo *Laughs at the last part* And Gozu really cared about Rikuo, don't he? I just love writing about young Rikun and Rikuo *Swoons* Also, what is up with Rihan? Yura is also catching up, could this be trouble?
All of which will be answered in the sequel, look forward to it!
Omake 1:
~Meeting with Tamazuki after the battle~
The vein popped on Rikun's head was throbbing violently, while Rikuo was blushing slightly.
They had managed to meet with Tamazuki after the battle to see if he had upheld the deal…only to be greeted by Tamazuki…with the finger gesture.
"…Will you quit that?" Rikun's eyebrows twitched, irritated that Tamazuki had the guts to flirt with them even after what happened. "Neither of us are interested!"
"Hm?" Tamazuki gave a confused blink that further irritates Rikun. "What?"
"You…"
Rikuo quickly pushed Rikun back and took over the situation before things escalated. "U-Um, w-why do you do that?"
Rikuo pointed to Tamazuki's fingers when he continued to be confused.
"This?" Tamazuki placed two fingers on his lips and showed it to them again, making both of them twitched uncomfortably. "Is something wrong with greeting you?"
"Greeting-"
"Y-You don't know what it means?" Rikuo interrupted Rikun, who was seconds away from unsheathing Nenekirimaru. "Y-You…shouldn't flirt with us, you know…"
"Flirt?" Tamazuki gained a surprised look. "…That's how we greet others in Shikoku."
"…What?" The Nura brothers gaped.
Tamazuki suddenly had a disgruntled expression, "…Come to think of it…I seemed to be the only one greeting like that…"
"Who taught you to greet like that?"
"…Oyaji."
The silence was so thick it could really be cut through with a sword.
~Somewhere else~
Danuki sneezed so loudly that the ground actually vibrated. He sniffed a few times in confusion, wondering who was talking about him. He waved off Mamedanuki's concern, when the little yokai asked if he was all right.
"…By the way, boss…"
"Hm?"
"…Are you…going to tell Tamazuki-sama about the other meaning of the finger gesture?"
Danuki tilted his head, "I have not told him that? Oh well, it's not like he is greeting everyone like that, is he?"
Mamedanuki kept slient, sweatdrops appearing all over his head, not having the heart to tell his leader that his son was, indeed, greeting everyone like that, making all the Shikoku yokais uncomfortable, yet not having the courage to tell Tamazuki what the gesture meant outside of family members.
Omake 2:
"Kaika, Hyoryu Yuki," Rikun gently called out, smiling as the flowers floated into his waiting hands. He gathered the flowers into a bouquet and hands them to the stunned yokai beside him. "Here, for you."
"I-It can be used like that too?" Rikuo was red in the face at the awfully romantic gesture. "T-Thank you."
He reached to grab the bouquet, only to have his hands trapped within Rikun's, the flowers between the both of them.
"W-Wha- Rikun?"
Rikun stared into the eyes that he loved so much, "I love you, Rikuo."
No matter how many times Rikun said it, Rikuo could not help but blushed, his heart beating slightly faster. He swallowed and took a deep breath, knowing Rikun wanted to hear those words as well,
"I lo-ack!"
"So," Rihan suddenly appeared behind Rikuo, tilting Rikuo's head to the side. "I have been meaning to ask you this, Rikuo."
"O-Otou-san?! W-What are you-"
"Where did you get these bite marks?" Rihan prodded the teeth marks on Rikuo's neck.
The blush on Rikuo's face intensified, "I-I…t-that…R-Rikun…!"
"Hehhhh," Rihan smirked. "You sure act fast, Rikun. Learning from me, huh?"
Rikun had his head bowed, making Rihan and Rikuo blinked in concern.
"Rikun?" Rihan poked Rikun on the head. "What's wrong?"
"…"
The next moment, Rihan found himself running for his life.
"W-Wait, Rikun! Nenekirimaru is not used to-Uwa! You almost hit me!"
Rikuo was left behind, sweatdropping at the sight of Rikun swinging Nenekirimaru at their father.
*I swear by my Fear, Rikuo, I will hear you say those words to me, no matter what!*
Really…it was not his fault that they kept getting interrupted whenever he was about to say those words.
Omake 3:
It was getting rather…awkward, to say the least.
When he was resting by himself, they were there.
When he walked down the corridor, they were there.
When he was eating, they were…well, there!
Rikuo glanced behind, spotting them once again.
"…Not to be rude or anything…but," Rikuo sweatdropped. "Is there a reason why the two of you kept following me, Gozu, Mezu?"
"No reason," Gozumaru answered steadily, with Mezumaru echoing happily after him.
The sweatdrop grew bigger.
Later, when Rikuo told Rikun about this, all he said was:
"Good work, Rikuo. For securing the future head of the Gyuki clan," Rikun chuckled, making Rikuo even more confused.
*Laughing madly at the second omake* Even in the omakes, Rikun is still unable to hear those words *Bangs table in amusement* Now, here's a little something extra…
…
..
.
Black feathers scattered as a figure flew above. Upon reaching their destination, they dropped something. A wrinkled hand reached out and caught it. The caught item was actually the Mao's Hammer.
"Kekekeh! Thank you for your hard work, Yosuzume," An old man voice called out. "So, what did you find out?"
Yosuzume kneeled down nearby and handed over a scroll, which was taken and read.
"Hm…hm…hm?...hm…Kekekeh…" The voice sounded amused as they shut the scroll. "Interesting…Let me inform the lady about this. You are dismissed."
Yosuzume bowed and disappeared in flurry of black feathers.
The figure of the voice walked down to the end of a hallway, where an old wooden door stood. He entered and stood in the middle, facing a king-sized bed. "My lady? Are you awake?"
A rustle informed him that, whoever was on the bed, was indeed awake.
"Kekekeh. Yosuzume has returned with some information." The wrinkled hand threw the scroll that Yosuzume had given, towards the bed.
A delicate, pale hand caught the scroll and spread it open, reading the contents silently.
"Kekekeh. It seems the young one would really be of trouble. Would you like us to-"
"No," The one on the bed cut in. "…Leave him to me…he is...one of my beloved ones after all…"
"As you wish, my lady." The figure then left without another word, giving the one on the bed some privacy.
The delicate hands toyed with the scroll for a few moments before tossing it aside.
A fond smile appeared.
"I can't wait…to see you again…"
Brown eyes blinked a few times, looking towards the night sky. Those eyes slowly became unfocused the longer they stared at the sky, the light in it fading away, leaving a blank stare behind.
"…uo. Rikuo!"
Rikuo snapped out of his trance, turning to face Rikun, who raised an eyebrow.
"You are not listening at all," Rikun deadpanned. "What are you thinking that had you so spaced out?"
"I-It's nothing!" Rikuo rubbed his head sheepishly. "What were you saying again?"
"It's time for bed," Rikun frowned. "Are you not cold? You have been standing there for quite some time…"
On cue, Rikuo shivered, rubbing his hands to create warmth, just noticing that it was really cold.
Rikun rolled his eyes at the attempt of Rikuo trying to keep himself warm. He strode towards his brother, wrapped an arm around his waist, and went on carrying Rikuo back to his room.
"Rikun!"
"Instead of doing that, why not let me…warm you up?"
"Huh? How?"
"…You just totally dismissed the sexual innuendo, didn't you?"
The famous blushing came back on, full force this time. "W-W-WHAT!?"
"Don't worry, I will show you how."
"N-NO! Go back to your own room, you perverted yokai!"
"I'm really hurt, Ri~ku~o."
"No, you are not! Let go of me! GYAA! W-WHERE ARE YOU TOUCHING?! SOMEONE HELP!"
Shouts of 'Young Master!' were heard before the sounds of thundering footsteps rushed towards them.
"Oi, oi…"
"…Opps…"
*Banging the table nonstops* Ah…Rikun and Rikuo never fails to amuse me with their antics. Wonder who was that earlier *Chuckles* Anyways, thank you to all of you once again! I hope this story has been worth your while!
(Should I, should I not? Mah, why not, I will show you guys some parts that I will probably add in the sequel):
"Who...Who's calling me?" Rikuo dazedly looked around, before noticing someone at a distance. "Who..."
...
"W-What did you just call me, Rikuo-kun?" Yamabuki stuttered out, horror gripping her so tightly that she felt faint.
...
"I'm disappointed in you, Yura. It seems you have forgotten your training as an Onmyoji," A black-hair man took out a container. "The first lesson that was learnt, was to destroy any yokais that you see, and yet, here you are associating with one of them like it's normal."
...
"D-Damn it! Come back! Don't listen to them!" Rihan yelled out desperately, pounding weakly against the wall. "…Please…! Return him back to me…!"
...
Nurarihyon shut his eyes, unable to take in the sight any longer.
...
Wakana smiled tearfully, "I have always believed in you…so, please…" Tears rolled down her cheeks. "…Get him back, Rikun-kun…"
...
"Idiot," A young male bit out. "There's no way you can escape this place."
...
"I-I see…" Kana looked down, too embarrassed to meet them in the eyes.
...
Kiyotsugu bowed deeply, shocking the rest of their friends. "Even though it was a long time ago…I still have no rights. And the only thing I could do…is apologize. I'm really sorry."
...
"I tried so hard…" A pale hand patted Rikuo's head. "But, perhaps I have tried too hard to achieve something that was beyond my reach in the first place…So thank you…for opening my eyes."
...
"I…" Kubinashi clenched his hands. "I just don't want the same thing to repeat again…"
...
"So let's finish this…once and for all," Rikun held out a hand. "…Will you become one with me?"
All right, that's all I'm giving. WARNING: The above parts are not finalized, not in order and are subjected to changes. It's just merely give a brief trailer to what will happen in the sequel, so no guarantees!
That's all folks! Please do review to tell me what you think about the whole story of "Life as a Nurarihyon"! Is it good? Is it bad? Needs improvements? Super lousy? Do let me know! (Now, please excuse me, this chapter took a lot out of me, I need rest *Waves sheepishly at the readers*)
Thank you all of you once again!