Chapter 9 - Rin
Darkness.
The closed eyes of Rin Kujou flutter open.
She's shocked to find herself in a dark void, naked, and tied up by black tendrils. She tries to break free, but fails.
"You can't escape," says a ghastly voice.
Rin turns and sees a black sword with one red eye staring right at her; it's Bladix.
"You belong to me, now and forever," he says.
More black tendrils rise from below, and lunge at Rin with deadly intent. She screams bloody murder.
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Rin bursts awake, sweating and panting.
She finds herself in bed in her room; just a bad dream.
"Not again," she says, rubbing her head.
Then she gets out of bed, walks into the bathroom, splashes water on her face, and stares at herself in the mirror.
Will they ever stop? she thinks.
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The next day at the local movie theater.
Inside, a packed audience watches the newest romantic drama play on the big screen. Rin, Saki and Aya sit in the front row.
On the screen, the female lead runs through a park in the pouring rain, crying her eyes out. The male lead chases after her, grabs her hand and gently pulls her into a hug. The female lead weeps into his chest as they embrace in the rain.
Saki and Aya watch the scene with tears in their eyes. Rin watches with a blank expression.
The male lead wipes away the female lead's tears, though her face is still wet from the rain. They smile at each other, lean in close and kiss.
Everyone in the audience applauds; everyone except Rin. Instead, she touches her lips with a hint of jealousy.
Who am I kidding? she thinks. That would never happen to me.
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Later, the three girls exit the theater, and walk on the sidewalk.
"That was so romantic," says Saki.
"My heart's still pounding," says Aya.
"Oh, I hope Zastin kisses me like that someday," says Saki.
"I'm sure he will, Miss Saki," assures Aya.
"What'd you think of the movie, Rin?" asks Saki.
Rin is distracted by a movie poster they pass by; "Space Pirates 5," one of those schlocky, sci-fi B-movies that both she and Rito tend to enjoy.
"Rin?" asks Saki.
Rin snaps out of her trance. "Oh, apologies, Miss Saki. Yes, the movie was nice."
Just then, three male thugs approach the girls, blocking their path.
"Well, well, well," sneers Thug 1. "What do we have here?"
Saki gets annoyed, Aya gets scared, and Rin gets ready.
"A trio of cuties from the looks of it," says Thug 2.
"What do you babes say to hanging with us studs for a while?" asks Thug 3.
"We wouldn't be caught dead with a bunch of odorous delinquents," says Saki. "Go hit on someone else."
As she starts away, Thug 1 blocks her.
"Ah, come on, toots. Don't be like that," he says, about to touch her shoulder.
Suddenly, Rin grabs his hand and twists it the wrong way. Thug 1 yelps and backs off.
"You heard Miss Saki. Get lost, and I won't harm you," she warns.
"Why, you. Get her!" yells Thug 1.
He and the other two thugs attack Rin.
...
Five seconds later.
All three thugs are down on the ground, completely thrashed and groaning in pain. Rin, Saki and Aya walk away.
"That's our Rin. Always protecting us," praises Saki.
"Yes. Thank you, Rin," says Aya.
"You're welcome," says Rin with a gentle smile.
"You...you're a freak!" yells Thug 1.
The girls turn around, and see the thugs picking themselves up.
"A girl who can fight like that? Don't you know guys prefer girls who are more feminine? Good luck finding yourself a boyfriend, freak," says Thug 1. "Come on, guys, let's get outta here."
The three thugs limp as they storm off.
"They just had to get the last word," says Aya, shaking her head.
Saki touches Rin's shoulder. "Forget those lowlifes, Rin. Let's head home."
"Yes," says Rin.
They resume walking in silence. Though Rin doesn't show it, it's obvious to both Saki and Aya that she's hurt by the thug's words. They trade looks, wondering what they can do. Just then, the lightbulbs over their heads go off. They smile at each other, both getting the same idea.
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Later at Saki's mansion, the sun begins to set.
Rin stands alone in the front courtyard, surrounded by shrubs and statues. Wearing a training kimono and holding a wooden shinai, she practices a few kendo moves. Her forms are precise, and her techniques swift.
Feminine? she thinks. Just because I'm stronger than most men doesn't mean I'm not feminine. I don't need a boyfriend, and I'm not a freak. That's right. I AM NOT A FREAK!
Without realizing it, she strikes a statue, breaking her shinai in two.
...
Rin takes a breath, and picks up the broken shinai shaft. Then she notices tears falling from her eyes. She quickly wipes them away, and takes another breath.
"I think that's enough for today," she says aloud.
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Later inside Saki's massive bedroom.
Saki and Aya rummage through the walk-in closet, tossing several girly outfits everywhere.
Aya holds up a red dress. "What about this one?"
"Mmm, too simple. She'll need something with a little more pop," says Saki.
"You're so perceptive, Miss Saki," says Aya.
Rin enters the bedroom, all showered off and wearing her regular clothes. "What's going on, you guys?"
"Oh, nothing, Rin," says Saki with a smile. "Just getting you ready for your next date with Rito Yuki, that's all."
"My next d-date with…what?" asks Rin, blushing and dumbfounded.
"Double date, actually," says Aya. "Miss Saki had the brilliant idea of you and her going out with Rito Yuki and Zastin together."
"That's right," says Saki. "I'll get to deepen my love with my beloved Zastin, AND support your love for Rito Yuki. It's a win-win, Rin."
"I'd expect nothing less from the queen of romance," praises Aya.
"My love for-wait! How did it come to this?" panics Rin.
"Also, Rin, you heard what Dr. Ryouko said," says Saki. "If Rito Yuki's perversion IS miraculously coming to an end, then this is the perfect time for you to strike."
"But I…I don't…feel that way about him," says Rin.
Suddenly, Saki thrusts her hand in between Rin's large breasts.
"Ay! Miss Saki, what're you doing?" asks Rin.
"Your voice says no, but your heart says otherwise," replies Saki. "This is for your own good, Rin. Don't make me have to order you, hmm-hmm."
Rin quivers, trapped and flustered.
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Meanwhile at Rito's house.
Rito, Momo and Nemesis are gathered in Lala's bedroom. Lala and Peke stare at them with bewildered looks.
"Uh, can you guys run that by me again?" asks Lala.
"Me too," says Peke.
"Long story short, Princess Lala, we'd like you to build a weapon for Rito," says Nemesis. "One he can use to kill Stem."
"Whoa, whoa, Nemesis!" protests Rito. "I never said anything about killing the guy."
Nemesis smacks his back a few times. "Fufu, I'm only teasing. I know you don't have it in you to kill anyone."
"That's Rito for ya," says Momo. "And as for Stem, we can always just lock him up in some super deluxe, space prison."
"You guys have those? No, never mind," says Rito. "Lala, about the weapon..."
"Well, if it's a gun you want, I've got plenty," says Lala.
She claps her hands twice, and the wall nearest her bed slides open, revealing an assortment of futuristic guns. Rito and Momo stare with wide eyes and slacked jaws.
"Impressive, fufu," says Nemesis.
"You had those in my house this whole time?" asks Rito.
"It's okay, Rito, they're non-lethal," says Lala. "Honestly, I never liked inventing weapons, because of all the harm they could cause. I only made these in case of emergencies."
"Where've YOU been the last year?" says Rito, sarcastically.
Momo inspects the weapons. "These are amazing, Big Sis, but I don't think any of them will be powerful enough against that Stem jerk. Believe me, he's a lot tougher than he looks."
"And that's why you want me to build Rito a new weapon?" asks Lala.
"One that can contain Nemesis' dark matter?" asks Peke.
"I mean, if you wouldn't mind," says Rito.
"Though Rito's been training hard, he's still unable to control my power," says Nemesis, turning her arm into a blade. "So until he can do the things I can do, he'll need some sort of device to do the fighting for him," she says, returning her arm to normal.
"Hmm, I see what you mean," says Peke.
"Big Sis," says Momo. "What Rito needs is something small and light enough to carry on his person at all times. Something Nemesis can channel her dark matter energy into."
"Yeah," says Rito. "And if Stem attacks me again, I can activate the device and manipulate the stored dark matter any way I want. Does that make sense?"
Literal question marks appear over Lala's head, and she puts on a bubbly smile. "Not a bit."
Rito, Momo and Nemesis face-fault onto the floor.
"But don't worry, I can build that kind of weapon," says Lala
"You can?" asks Rito.
Lala kneels down and touches his face. "Of course. If there's anything I can do to protect you, Rito, I will."
"Lala," says Rito.
As he and Lala lean in for a kiss, Nemesis flips on the switch of an elastic white rope on the floor.
"Ooh, what's this do?" she asks.
"Wait, is that…?" asks Rito.
"Twisty Rope 3.0," says Lala.
"Nemesis, don't!" yells Rito.
Too late. The rope activates and ties up Nemesis, binding and constricting her most sensitive parts.
"Ah! Wh-what is this? Ah!" she yelps, moaning in displeasure.
Rito flushes red and covers his eyes. Momo can't help but laugh at Nemesis' misfortune.
"Serves you right," she says through bouts of laughter.
"Pretty cool, huh?" says Lala, proud of herself, innocently oblivious to the situation at hand.
"A work of art, Miss Lala, as always," says Peke, giving her a thumbs-up.
"Guys, help me get it off her," says Rito. "You help too, Momo."
"Ugh, fine," pouts Momo.
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Later, Rito and Momo, who can't stop giggling, walk down the stairs.
"It's not funny, Momo," says Rito.
"Yes, it is," replies Momo. "At least, it was until we untangled her."
"I just hope Lala's new weapon is a little less pervy," he says. "Not that I'm ungrateful to her for building it, of course."
"I'm sure it'll be perfect," she says. "But weapons aside, Rito, have you thought about what I said?"
They both stop on the stairs.
"About what?" he asks.
"If you limit yourself to just Nemesis, you won't get any stronger," she says. "You need to start training with HER as well."
"Her?" he asks, taking a moment to realize who she means. "Oh. Her."
"So?" asks Momo.
"I get what you're coming from," replies Rito. "But I'm pretty sure she hates my guts. There's no way she'll ever train me."
"Couldn't hurt to ask," she says before putting on a mischievous smirk. "Besides, you wanna make her part of your harem too, don't you?"
Rito's face goes cherry-red, and he frantically waves his arms. "Momo, shh, shh."
"I'm just kidding. But…I'm also just trying to help," she says, taking his hand.
"Huh?" he asks.
Momo lowers her head with a sorrowful expression. "I've got a bad feeling about this, Rito. If anything were to happen to you, I'd…"
Rito smiles and touches her shoulder with his free hand, making her perk up. "It's gonna be fine, Momo. I know you're just trying to help, and I really appreciate that. I promise I'll make this up to you somehow. As for her, I'm still hesitant, but I'll give her a call and ask her to train me."
Momo smiles and embraces him. "Thank you, Rito."
Before Rito can hug her back, Mikan calls out from the kitchen.
"Guys, dinner," she shouts.
"Well, guess I'll go grab the others," says Momo, heading back upstairs. "Hopefully, Nemesis is tangled up in another one of Big Sis' erotic inventions, hmm-hmm."
"That girl," whispers Rito, shaking his head.
As he walks into the kitchen, he sees Mikan by the stove and Celine playing with her silverware in her highchair. She drops her spoon on the floor. Rito grabs another spoon off the table, and offers it to her.
"Here, Celine. You can play with mine," he says.
She happily accepts the spoon, and resumes playing. Rito picks up the dirty spoon off the floor.
Now that I think about it, she WAS in my dream too, he thinks. But something tells me she's not gonna be as easy to confess to as Run or Kyouko. Then again, should I even confess at all? I mean, how do I really feel about her? And...how does she feel about me?
He puts the dirty spoon in the sink, and grabs a clean one from the drawer. "Hey, Mikan."
"What's up?" asks Mikan, setting the food on the table.
"You have Rin Kujou's cell number, don't you?" he asks.
"Yeah," she says. "Now that you mention it, I should give her a call. It's been a while since we last-wait!"
She turns to Rito with a suspicious look in her eyes.
"Why?" she asks.
"Oh, well, uh, hehe," he says, sheepishly.
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The following day at Rin's house.
Inside the dojo, Rin and Rito stand apart from one another, both wearing training kimonos and holding shinais.
He bows to her. "I'm sorry to inconvenience you like this, Kujou-senpai. Thank you for taking the time to train me."
"Don't mention it, Rito Yuki," says Rin.
Saki and Aya spy on them from behind the doorway.
"Oh, this is too perfect," says Saki. "To think, I was trying to get Rin to ask out Rito Yuki, but he ended up asking her instead."
"And for kendo lessons, no less," says Aya. "Oh, Rin. The stars of love must be aligning for you."
Rin does a few warm-up stretches. Rito follows her lead.
"To be honest, I'm a little flattered," she says. "You've been targeted by a dangerous alien, and you're coming to me, a fellow human, to learn self-defense. Honestly, I don't know how much I can help."
"That's not true at all, Senpai," he says. "As far as I'm concerned, you're one of the strongest and most helpful people I know. After all, your Tenjou-senpai's bodyguard. You've kept her and Fujisaki-senpai safe ever since you were kids. Plus, there was that time you helped Mikan when she wasn't feeling well. There's no one else I'd rather learn from."
His kind words cause Rin to gasp and blush.
"Not bad, Rito Yuki," whispers Aya.
"Come on, Rin. Say something," whispers Saki.
"You are…surprisingly kind. For a perverted klutz," says Rin.
"Uh, yeah. I'm really sorry about that," says Rito.
...
Though to be honest, he hasn't been as clumsy as usual, thinks Rin. What if Dr. Ryouko was right? Maybe he really has stopped falling onto girls. Wait, why am I thinking about this? It doesn't concern me. It's not like I like him or anything.
"Senpai?" asks Rito.
Rin snaps out of it, clears her throat and shifts into a fighting stance. "Enough talk. Let's begin."
"Uh, right," says Rito, taking his own stance.
Rin notices the look in his eyes; a warrior's look.
Oh, wow, she thinks. He's serious about this.
"Come at me with all you've got," she demands.
"Right," he replies.
"This should be good," whispers Saki.
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One hour later.
Rito lies on the floor, a little banged up, and sweating profusely. Meanwhile, Rin stands without a scratch on her.
"Get up. Let's try it one more time," orders Rin.
"Oh, man," says Rito, forcing himself to stand.
Out in the hallway, Saki and Aya continue to watch them, albeit drowsily.
"Come on already," whines Saki.
"Get to the romance," whines Aya.
Rin takes a stance, and lunges at Rito. He counters the thrust, and swings for her neck. She spins her shinai within her hand, blocks Rito's attack, and strikes him on the head.
"Ow!" he yells, dropping to the floor and massaging his head. "How'd you do that?"
"I've studied kendo since I was five. All it takes is practice and commitment. Now get ready," she says, about to attack again.
"Whoa, whoa, wait a second," he panics, still on the floor.
"Your opponent won't wait," she says before advancing.
Rito quickly stands up and parries her thrust, but then he trips.
Time seems to slow down as he falls towards Rin, his face about to land in her pelvis, and his hands about to land on her breasts.
Oh, no, not again, thinks Rin.
Saya and Aya watch with worry.
"I knew it was only a matter of time," whispers Saki.
But then, Rito plants his foot on the floor, stopping himself from falling onto Rin or touching any part of her. Their faces are inches apart, both flushed from the close proximity.
...
...
...
Rito quickly backs away, and bows on all fours. "I'm so sorry, Senpai! It was an accident, I swear!"
Rin blinks twice. He didn't grope her, yet he's still apologizing as if he had. Rin stifles a giggle.
"You really are a klutz, Rito Yuki. Perhaps it's time we call it a day," she says.
"Uh, okay. Thank you again for all your help," he says, standing up.
"Again, don't mention it," she says.
Maybe his perversion really has come to an end, she thinks. Even so, that was too close a call. If we keep this up, he'll fall on me for sure. I don't know why, but I want to believe he's doing better.
Rito returns the shinai to the rack on the wall, and then yelps in pain.
"Are you alright?" asks Rin.
"Oh, yeah. Just a little sore, that's all," replies Rito. "I'm not used to this level of exercise. But you said you've been doing it since you were five?"
"Indeed," she responds.
"You're incredible, Senpai," he says, once again making her blush. "And thanks again for lending me this kimono. If you don't mind, I'm gonna go change."
"Very well," she says.
As Rito walks into the next room, Rin returns her shinai to the wall. Just then, Saki and Aya hustle into the dojo, grab Rin by her arms, and pull her back out into the hall, much to her confusion.
"Miss Saki, Aya, what're you doing?" asks Rin.
"What're YOU doing, Rin?" asks Saki. "That boy is filthy, and you're just gonna waste this golden opportunity by letting him go home? No, no, no. Here's what you have to do."
She whispers something into Rin's ear. Whatever it is, it turns her face bright red.
"Are you crazy?" she asks. "There's no way I could do that."
"Don't make me have to order you," teases Saki.
She and Aya smile and give Rin a thumbs-up, insisting she go through with it. Rin begins to panic.
...
In the other room, Rito unties his kimono.
Kujou-senpai really is amazing, he thinks. I wonder if she'll train me again if I ask. After all, I still need to get much stronger before I face Stem. Also, if Kujou-senpai does keep training me, we'll be spending more time together. And that means I can…
"Rito Yuki!" yells Rin from behind the door.
"Y-yes?" asks Rito, terrified.
"M-may I come in?" she asks.
Rito quickly reties his kimono, making himself look decent. "Uh, sure."
He turns around just as Rin opens the door. She's blushing madly, and her legs are shaking.
"Y-you can't go home just yet," she stutters.
"Huh?" he asks.
"P-please...please take a shower first!" she says, spitting it out.
...
"EEEEEHHHHHHHH?" he squeals.
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Later in Rin's bathroom, Rito sits alone on a plastic stool in the shower, letting the water wash over his naked body.
What kind of world am I living in? he thinks. I mean, I definitely needed a shower after that workout, but to think I'd be showering at Kujou-senpai's place. This is just like what happened at Risa's. Then again, Kujou-senpai's nothing like her, so I probably don't have to worry. Even so, I need to get out soon. At this rate, things will move too fast between her and me.
Just then, the door opens.
...
Rito's body goes still. He can hear faint voices arguing. Then he hears the door slam shut, followed by silence.
...
His heart beats faster with each passing second.
There's no way, he thinks.
Against his better judgment, he slowly turns around, and sees a girl standing by the shower door. It's Rin, wearing a skimpy black bikini. The bottom is a thong, and the top only covers her nipples. She's so embarrassed, her body turns as red as her face.
"R-Rito Yuki," she stutters. "I thought, erm, that I should, erm, w-w-w-wash your back for you."
...
Rito stares at her, absolutely transfixed. He's so overwhelmed by her beauty that he forgets he's naked. Thinking fast, he quickly turns the faucet to its hottest setting. The scalding water hits the floor, filling the room with an enormous cloud of steam, obscuring Rin's view of his naked body. He had a feeling this would happen, and he won't fall for the same trick twice.
"Rito Yuki, what are you doing?" asks Rin.
Under the cover of the steam, Rito quickly wraps a towel around his waist.
That's supposed to be my line, he thinks.
Then he turns off the water. The steam dissipates and the bathroom clears up. Rito and Rin stare at each other, both embarrassed.
...
"Kujou-se…Rin," says Rito.
Rin does a double-take, surprised he called her by her first name.
"You are so...beautiful," he says, face flushed. Rin gasps in surprise. "But Tenjou-senpai and Fujisaki-senpai are the ones making you do this, aren't they?"
Rin lowers her head. She doesn't answer; doesn't have to.
"I'm sorry, Rito Yuki," she says. "I won't inconvenience you any further."
She turns around, and reaches for the door handle. But before she opens it, Rito grabs her hand, stopping her. She looks him right in the eye; he has a serious look on his face, and their half-naked bodies are inches apart from one another.
...
"Listen to me, Rin," he starts. "I admire your loyalty to Tenjou-senpai. You once told me that she wanted you and I to hook up, and I couldn't possibly imagine why. After all, I'm a worthless guy who causes nothing but trouble and can't protect anyone. But you're nothing like that. You're strong and brave, but also gentle and compassionate, like when you helped Mikan. You're so obedient to Tenjou-senpai that you'd force yourself to wear a...revealing bikini and wash a man's back. And I meant what I said just now; you really are beautiful. And if I'm being completely honest, even though I don't deserve you, the idea of you and I hooking up makes me happy."
"Rito Yuki," she says.
He releases her hand. "I respect how far you'd go for Tenjou-senpai's sake. But the truth is I want you to be happy. I want you to do things like go out on dates with me, teach me to fight or wash my back because you want to, not because you have to. And I know you'd never do any of those things with me willingly, because you don't like me, and I don't blame you. I'm really sorry for all the trouble I've caused you in the past, and I'm sorry you're being forced to spend time with a worthless guy like me. I understand if you never wanna see me again."
Several silent, awkward moments pass.
...
...
...
Rin gulps and musters the courage to speak. "You're not worthless...Rito."
Rito is taken aback; she just called him by his first name without adding his surname.
"Don't ever say you can't protect anyone," she continues. "You protected me from that demonic sword, remember? I was really scared that day. If it wasn't for you, I don't know what would've happened. And contrary to what you believe, there aren't many people who would've saved me like you did. Now it's YOUR life that's in danger. So if there's anything I can do to help you, I will. Because that is what I want. Don't you feel the same?"
"Rin," he says.
...
"Yes," he says. "Yes, it is. I...I'd like you to keep training me."
"Then I will," she says with a smile.
"Thank you," he says, smiling back.
Rin nervously shifts her feet. "And..."
"Yeah?" he asks.
"As for that date we went on," she gulps. "While it was Miss Saki's doing...I actually, unexpectedly enjoyed it."
"You did?" he asks, relieved.
"I've devoted my life serving as her bodyguard," she says. "I never cared for tedious things like dating or romance. But honestly, even though you kept falling onto me that day, I was happy. Because for the first time in a long time, being with you made me feel like an ordinary girl, not a...a freak."
"Rin," he says.
"Then you go and say sweet things like I'm compassionate and beautiful, and you assume I don't like you? That is, yes, I didn't like you at first. In fact, for the longest time, I downright hated you," she says.
"Ugh, thought as much," he says.
"But...I don't feel that way anymore," she says, smiling.
Rito gasps and blushes.
...
"Although, I can't say I like you enough to wash your back while wearing a revealing bikini," she jokes.
"Yeah, that part IS a little crazy," he says.
They both start to laugh, feeling ridiculous.
"Maybe we should continue this after we get some clothes on," he suggests.
"Good idea," she says.
And just like that, at the worst possible moment, Rito's towel slides off. They hear it hit the floor, and against Rin's better judgment, she looks down.
...
Both of them flush bright red. Rin screams and slaps him.
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Ten minutes later.
Rito sits on the outdoor veranda, wearing his normal clothes and nursing his face. Rin appears, sits next to him and offers a bottle of water.
"Apologies," says Rin. "I know that wasn't your fault. Old habits."
"That's okay, I'm used to it," replies Rito, taking the bottle. "By the way, I haven't seen Tenjou-senpai or Fujisaki-senpai around."
"Yes, well, after they shoved me into the bathroom, they took off," she says, blushing mad. "They...wanted to give us some…alone time."
Water spews from Rito's mouth, and he coughs until he can speak properly.
"Sorry," he says, banging his chest to cough out any remaining water. "Geez, that was a little extreme of them."
Rin can't help but giggle, so she covers her mouth.
"What's so funny?" he asks.
"Oh, nothing," she says. "It's just this is a lot like what happened when I brought Mikan over. We showered, sat on this veranda and enjoyed drinks. And now her brother's here doing the same. Small world."
"I'm really glad you and her became friends, Rin," he says. "She'd never admit it, but I know she gets lonely sometimes, so I'm happy she has someone like you around. And I know this is the eight-thousandth time I've said this, but thank you."
Rin remains silent for a moment, and then blushes.
...
"Hey, uh, Rito," she says.
"Yeah?" he asks.
"Did you…did you meant what you said back there?" she asks. "About you being happy if...we hooked up?"
...
WHAT? No way! he thinks, blinking like crazy. I haven't even told her about the harem plan yet. Don't tell me she's already agreeing to it. Cool your jets, Rito. Just calm down and tell her the truth.
"Yes, I did," he confesses, smiling.
Rin blushes wildly, and fidgets in her seat. Gone is her stoic, aloof persona; now she's just acting like a normal, young woman.
"But there's something I should tell you," he says.
"Oh? Is it important?" she asks.
"Yeah," he replies. "It's about what I plan to do after I take care of that Stem jerk."
Rin sees the look in his eyes, and marvels at how determined he is.
"I see," she says. "Well, if it's that important, why not tell me on our next date?"
"Our next d-d-date?" he asks.
"You don't want to?" she asks, her eyes slightly sad.
"No, no! Of course, I do. I mean, ahem," he says. "Yes. I'd like to take you out on another date, Rin."
"Hmm-hmm. I'd like that as well, Rito. I really would," she says, standing up and walking a few feet on the grass. "But before we go any further with this, you should know that I've already decided to remain Miss Saki's bodyguard for the rest of my life."
"I understand," he says.
"It's not that I don't like you. Because I…I kind of do. Maybe," she says, blushing. "But this is all so new to me, and it's making me confused. I swore I'd stay by Miss Saki's side forever, and I don't know if there'll be any room for anything else like dating. So I'd like to experience it now while I still can."
She turns around and smiles at Rito.
"And…I'd like to experience it with you," she confesses.
Rito's eyes widen in surprise. The sunlight beams behind Rin's figure, and a gentle breeze lifts her hair into the air. For a second, all of time and space seem to slow down for Rito as he stares at her.
...
Rin steps closer to Rito.
Wait, he thinks, blushing. Is she gonna...really?
Suddenly, Rin thrusts her finger into his face. "But hear this!"
Rito gasps; whatever he thought Rin was gonna do, she's definitely not doing it.
"If I feel for even one second that I'm not enjoying myself, if you so much as make one perverted action, accidental or not, I will make you regret it. Understood?" she warns.
"Yes, ma'am!" he shrieks.
Rin lowers her finger, and starts laughing; Rito laughs too.
"In that case, why don't we make it a double date?" he suggests.
"A double date?" she asks.
No way, she thinks. Is he thinking the same thing as Miss Saki?
"You've never experienced one of those before, right?" he asks. "So how 'bout we bring Tenjou-senpai and Zastin along."
"Okay, but where's this coming from?" she asks.
"Well," he says. "She did go out of her way to get you and I together. And although her methods were a tad extreme, I know her heart was in the right place. So I'd like to return the favor, and help her get together with Zastin. Of course, I could use your help. What do ya say?"
Rin responds with a smile.
000000
The next morning at Rito's house.
Rito, Nemesis and Momo gather in the backyard with Lala and Peke.
Lala enthusiastically presents a pair of white wristwatches. "Ta-da! I give you the Neme-watches!"
"Wow," says Rito, marveling at the designs.
"Neme-watches?" asks Momo.
"I like it, fufu," says Nemesis.
"Go ahead, Rito. Try 'em on," says Lala, placing both watches in his hands.
"Uh, okay," he says, strapping the watches onto his wrists. "These don't have any clocks."
"Yeah, they don't tell time, but I couldn't think of another name for them," says Lala, innocently punching her head with her tongue sticking out. "Now, Nemesis, try channeling your power into both watches."
"Very well," complies Nemesis.
She touches both of Rito's watches, and siphons her energy into them. The white watches gradually turn black, and a small green dot starts blinking on both of them.
"Okay, they're fully charged," says Lala. "Now you've got two pockets of dark matter energy you can use with just a flick of the wrist, Rito."
"Nicely done, Big Sis," says Momo.
"Yeah," says Rito. "So, uh...how exactly do these work?"
Momo, Nemesis and Peke facepalm themselves.
"It's all in your head, Rito," explains Lala. "Just imagine what you wanna do, and the watches'll do the rest."
"Okay," says Rito, still not getting it.
Nemesis picks up a small stone off the ground. "Here, Rito. I'm gonna throw this rock into the air, and you're gonna try shooting it with a blast of dark matter."
"What?" asks Rito. "But that's-"
"Here I go," interrupts Nemesis, tossing the stone high into the sky until it's a mere speck.
"You threw it way too high," says Momo. "He'll never hit it from here."
"Just watch," says Nemesis.
"Go on, Rito," says Lala. "I wanna see my gadgets in action. Blast that puny rock to smithereens."
"Alright, alright," says Rito.
He lifts his right hand, eyeballs the rock as it descends, and concentrates.
...
Suddenly, a wave of dark matter energy fires out of his palm. The blast zooms through the air and strikes the small rock, resulting in a massive explosion in the sky. Rito and Momo hilariously stare in shock. Nemesis photographs the explosion with her cellphone. Lala and Peke jump for joy.
"They work! They work!" cheers Lala.
"Excellent job as always, Miss Lala," says Peke.
"Well, they, uh, certainly pack a punch," says Momo.
Though she may have spoken too soon, because the right watch starts blinking red.
"Um, what's going on?" asks Rito.
Lala seizes his arm and examines the watch. "Oh, no. Out of power already?"
On the ground, Peke pats the back of Lala's shin. "There, there, Miss Lala."
Nemesis channels more of her power into the right watch, recharging it until it blinks green again. "Princess, if these watches drain dry after just one attack, Rito'll be in serious danger the next time Stem shows up."
"I hate to say it, Big Sis, but she's right," says Momo.
"Oh. Guess I still got a lot more work to do," says Lala, feeling dejected.
Although Rito's flabbergasted by the watch's intense power, he senses Lala's disappointment in herself. He chooses his words delicately, and gives her a smile. "Lala, these watches are perfect."
"Huh?" asks Lala.
"It's like there's a part of you, TWO parts, that're with me, protecting me," says Rito. "And you built them in just one day. You should feel proud of yourself. I know I am."
"Oh, Rito," gushes Lala with dazzling eyes and the brightest smile.
Momo sneaks up behind Rito and whispers in his ear. "Very smooth, Rito. Now kiss her."
"What?" asks Rito, embarrassed.
"She worked real hard, and deserves thanks. What better thanks than a kiss? Go on," whispers Momo, pushing him closer to Lala.
Then she grabs both Nemesis and Peke, and pulls them towards the house.
"Come on, you two," says Momo, giving Rito and Lala some privacy.
"But, but, Miss Momo," says Peke.
"Ah, and it was just getting good," pouts Nemesis as they're dragged away into the house, leaving Rito and Lala alone together.
...
Rito and Lala smile at one another, embrace and share a tender kiss; no words needed.
Above on the second-floor window, Nana watches them with a look of surprise.
000000
Later that night.
It's a cool night at an extravagant, indoor restaurant located on the top of a city skyscraper.
Rito and Zastin sit at a table for four, both wearing suits. Rito feels uncomfortable being in a place surrounded by so many rich folk.
I can't believe Tenjou-senpai arranged this place for the double date, he thinks. It's not my scene at all.
"I must say, Rito, this is rather genius of you," says Zastin.
"What do you mean?" asks Rito.
"This is about Stem, right?" asks Zastin. "You plan to use yourself as bait to lure him out. And when he arrives, I'll be right here to subdue him. That's why you asked me to tag along, isn't it? Pure genius."
"Uh, sure. Whatever you say," says Rito.
He checks both his Neme-watches, hidden under both his sleeves. They're blinking green; fully charged.
"Hey, you two!" shouts a voice.
Rito and Zastin turn to see Saki and Rin walking towards their table. They both wear gorgeous dresses befitting of royal princesses, catching the eyes of every male patron in the restaurant. While Saki thrives on the attention, Rin feels uncomfortable. Rito stares at her, speechless and mesmerized. He and Zastin chivalrously rise from their chairs as the girls approach.
"Hope you weren't waiting long," says Saki.
"Not at all, Lady Saki. We only just arrived," says Zastin.
"Th-that's right. Good evening, Tenjou-senpai, Rin," says Rito, flashing her a smile.
"Good evening yourself, Rito," says Rin, returning the gesture.
Saki clocks the lovey-dovey exchange, and her face lights up. "Oh, Zastin, I bet the view from the outdoor balcony is just spectacular. Why don't we check it out real quick before we order?"
"Well, uh," starts Zastin.
Before he can say anymore, Saki clings to his arm. "Wonderful. Rin, Rito Yuki, go ahead and start without us."
"O...kay," says Rito, bewildered.
As Saki escorts Zastin to the balcony door, she gives Rin a thumbs-up. Rin sighs as she and Rito take their seats.
"Thank you for doing this, Rito," she says. "I've known Miss Saki forever, and I've never seen her so happy."
"No problem," says Rito.
A blonde waiter approaches the table with four iced waters on a tray. "Good evening, folks. Would you care for some waters?"
"Yes, thank you," replies Rin.
"Great," he says, placing the waters on the table. "And I'll be back in just a moment to take your orders."
"Thanks," says Rito.
As the blonde waiter leaves, Rito and Rin smile at each other. All of a sudden, neither of them have anything to talk about. Rin shifts in her seat. Rito twiddles his thumbs. They look around and sip their waters; it's awkward.
What's the matter with me? thinks Rin. Why do I feel so nervous around him? And why's my heart throbbing so fast? I mean, okay, I admit it, I like him. Just a teensy, tiny, little bit. So why's my body acting like I like him more that that?
"Hey, uh, Rin," says Rito, finally thinking of an icebreaker.
"Y-yes?" she asks.
"Did you, uh, catch that awesome B-movie on TV last night?" he asks.
"Oh, you mean "Space Pirates 3"? Yeah, I did," she replies with excitement, completely forgetting her earlier dismay. "And then I watched the fourth one right afterwards! I love those movies!"
"Me too," he replies. "Did you hear they're reshooting the fifth one in the States?"
"Yeah, and it's due for release next summer," she says. "I think it's gonna be the best one yet."
"Same here. I can hardly wait," he says.
...
"Man, uh, Tenjou-senpai and Zastin sure are taking their time," he says.
"Well, you don't really think she stole him away just to catch the view, do you?" she asks, coyly.
It takes Rito a moment to catch onto her meaning. As he does, his eyes widen in disbelief.
"She's gonna confess?" he asks, looking to the balcony. "Wow. Good luck, Tenjou-senpai."
With his eyes on the balcony, Rin notices his hand on the table.
...
She gulps, blushes red, slowly slides her hand across the table, and touches his. Rito is taken aback, but then he opens his hand, and welcomes hers into his grasp.
"I'm sorry," she says. "I know my hands are big and rough for a girl. Because of that, I've always been scared of holding hands with a boy. Pathetic, isn't it?"
"It's not pathetic at all," he says. "Besides, I think your hands are...warm and soft."
"Rito," she says with a smile.
They both stare at each other for a moment.
...
...
...
Rito takes a deep breath and prepares himself. "Listen, Rin...that important thing I was gonna tell you yesterday...I'd like to tell you now."
"Alright," she says.
000000
Outside on the balcony, Saki and Zastin spy on them from behind the floor-to-ceiling windows.
"How much longer must we wait, Lady Saki?" asks Zastin.
"Please just give them another moment," replies Saki.
Zastin grows worried; Stem could attack at any minute, and he wouldn't be able to help Rito.
He and Saki watch Rito tell Rin about the harem plan; she reacts with surprise.
While spying on them, Saki looks at Zastin, getting all flustered. "Say, Zastin...there's something I want to tell you."
Zastin looks at her with confusion.
000000
Inside, Rito finishes explaining himself to Rin. She withdraws her hand from his.
"That's…I don't have the words," says Rin.
"I know, I know," says Rito. "But I don't plan on marrying Lala or anyone else right now. Not to mention becoming king of anything. I still have a lot to learn before I'm ready to take on that kind of responsibility. Besides, I'd like to at least get through high school first."
"Rito...why are you telling me this?" she asks.
"Because I," he starts, wanting to spit it out.
But he feels ashamed to after just telling her about the harem plan. He lowers his head, defeated. She looks at him with worry.
"Rin…I...like you," he confesses.
...
Rin blinks twice, and her cheeks turn rosy red. Rito continues to speak with his head down, clenching his fists in his lap.
"You said you'd stay by Tenjou-senpai's side forever, and I don't wanna come between you two," he says. "But on the off-chance you develop any interest in romance in the future, even if it's decades from now...I hope you'll consider it...with me. Because I...I want to be with you."
Rin quivers in her seat so much, it appears like she's freezing.
"You don't have to answer me now," says Rito. "I just wanted you to know that...I'll be waiting."
He finally looks Rin in the eye. Her expression is unreadable.
"Rito…I…" she mumbles.
...
She bites her lip, bolts from her chair and bows to him.
"Please excuse me," she says.
Then she runs for the restroom before Rito can get a word in. He watches her disappear, and plumps his head on the table.
Oh, crap, he thinks. Please tell me I didn't just screw everything up.
Suddenly, a fist collides with the back of his head.
"Ouch!" he whines, nursing his head and turning around. "Who did-gah!"
Saki towers behind him, emitting a bloodthirsty aura. "What. Did. You. Do?"
"Tenjou-senpai!" he screeches. "I, uh, I didn't, that is-"
Saki seizes him by the collar. "Get this through that thick, perverted head of yours, Rito Yuki. That girl is my best friend, and this is a side of her I've never seen before. So I want her to enjoy it to the fullest, even if it's with a clumsy lecher like you. But if you dare break her heart, I'll make you regret it. Capeesh?"
Rito sweats bullets and gulps. Then he takes a deep breath, mans up and gently removes Saki's hand from his collar. "You have my word, Tenjou-senpai."
...
Saki gives him the tiniest of smiles, glad they have an understanding. "I suppose that'll have to do."
Rito smiles back, and then notices something. "Where's Zastin?"
Saki immediately flushes. "Oh, well, he's, uh..."
Rito follows her gaze and spots Zastin out on the balcony, hunched over the railing, shaking like a leaf.
Saki twiddles her hair. "I, erm, may have told him how I felt. And he may have gotten a little choked up. He's still trying to find the words."
"I see," says Rito.
Zastin, you wuss, he thinks.
"Well, I'm gonna go check on Rin," says Saki. "Order whatever you want. My treat."
"Oh, thanks, but I…" he says, but Saki's already rushing to the women's restroom. "And she's gone."
He lifts his menu and ganders at the overpriced food. His face falls.
Geez, he thinks. What? Is the food here made of gold or something?
Suddenly, the ominous shadow of a waiter looms over him.
"What can I get you tonight, Rito Yuki?" asks the waiter.
Rito replies without looking. "Oh, I think I need another-"
His eyes widen, recognizing the voice. He drops the menu and looks up; it's not the blonde waiter.
It's Stem, disguised as a waiter, looking down on Rito with a smug grin. "Hello."
...
Before Rito can react, Stem kicks over the table, grabs him by the throat, and lifts him in the air. The scene stirs the whole restaurant into a commotion. The patrons scream and back away. Rito's legs dangle as he struggles to breathe.
Stem unsheathes his red energy sword. "And goodbye."
He's about to stab Rito-
"NO!" yells a voice from across the room.
Stem and Rito turn to see Rin and Saki emerging from the crowd of terrified patrons. Stem clocks Rin's worried expression, realizing how important Rito must be to her.
"Release him, Stem," demands another voice.
Stem and Rito look to see Zastin returning inside from the outdoor balcony. His suit illuminates and transforms into his armor.
"Ugh," moans Stem. "Can I PLEASE just kill this one little worm without any more surprises?"
While he's distracted, Rito lifts his left hand and shoots a dark matter blast point-blank into Stem's chest, disintegrating his waiter disguise and blasting him across the room. He crashes into the wall, and a pile of ceiling rubble showers onto him. Rito hits the floor, sucking in great gulps of air. Rin, Saki and Zastin look from Stem to Rito, astonished by what just happened.
"Surprise," quips Rito, standing up.
Stem bursts out of the rubble. "Dark matter energy. That's new."
Everyone in the restaurant panics and flees for the exit; everyone except Rin and Saki. As Stem brushes some dirt off his shoulder and prepares to fight, Rito notices his left watch blinking yellow; just one blast and it's already half empty.
Dammit, he thinks. I panicked and used too much.
Zastin draws his green energy sword, and stands between Rito and Stem. "Rito, you've done your part. Now leave, and let me do mine."
Rito looks to Rin and Saki. His mind reels back to the last time he encountered Stem, and how all of his friends got hurt protecting him. "But I..."
"Go now," orders Zastin.
...
Rito rips off his tie, conjures a blade of dark matter in his hands, and takes a kendo stance. "No."
Rin watches him, amazed.
"What're you doing?" asks Zastin. "Get outta here. I'll handle this."
"No, no. Let him stay," says Stem.
He transforms his left cannon gauntlet into a blade gauntlet, and unsheathes a second energy sword. Now, he's got a red sword in each hand, and he's facing two swordsmen alone.
"After all, the more, the merrier," he says.
"Rin," says Rito. "Take Tenjou-senpai and run."
"What?" asks Rin. "But Rito-"
"Just go!" demands Rito. "I don't want you to get hurt."
He looks at her with determined eyes and a gentle smile. Then he softens his tone as he speaks.
"You said you'd protect her for the rest of your life, didn't you?" he asks. "So please, protect her. And allow me to protect you this one more time."
Rin gasps; the way he looks at her makes her blush hard, and causes her beating heart to drown out all other noise.
Zastin bites his lip, still wanting Rito to leave. "Rito-"
He's cut off by Stem's laughter. "Oh, she's not the one you should be protecting."
...
Stem charges, and attacks both Zastin and Rito at once. The three engage in a two-on-one sword fight. Despite being outnumbered, Stem doesn't waver one bit. Zastin has the experience and puts up a good fight; Rito struggles to hold his own.
Rin appears visibly torn between helping Rito or getting Saki to safety. She curses under her breath, and takes Saki's hand. "Let's go, Miss Saki."
"Wait, Zastin!" yells Saki.
"Go with your friend, Lady Saki," shouts Zastin while fighting. "And don't worry about us. We've got this jerk."
Rito shoots him a tiny smile, glad he's allowing him to fight by his side.
"Come, Miss Saki," says Rin.
Against her wishes, Saki flees the restaurant with Rin as the duel grows more intense.
Rito can't match Stem's skill nor speed. His tight suit restricts his movements, his left watch blinks red (already out of power), and his right watch blinks yellow (half empty). Just then, his sword shrinks to half its size.
"What? No!" says Rito.
Stem snickers and kicks Rito in the gut, sending him flying into the kitchen.
"Rito!" yells Zastin.
"Eyes on me," says Stem.
The two resume fighting.
00000
Outside in the main hall, Rin and Saki join the crowd of patrons clamoring for the elevators.
Rin notices the emergency stairs, which are wide open. "This way."
She leads Saki to the door, and the two make their way down the stairs.
As they descend, Saki looks down over the railing; the stairs are clear and safe. She stops and turns to Rin. "I've got this, Rin. You go back to Rito Yuki."
"What?" asks Rin. "Miss Saki, no. I'm your bodyguard. I can't just leave you. I-"
Saki calmly grips her shoulders and smiles. "This isn't an order; just a talk between girls. I'll support whichever choice you make. Just make it from your heart."
Rin stares at her for a moment. Then she looks back up the stairs, processing her choice.
000000
Back in the restaurant, Stem and Zastin continue their duel while Rito is down on the kitchen floor.
Zastin swings low and cuts Stem's leg. Stem growls in pain, sheathes his left sword, and uncoils his energy whip; now he's armed with one blade and a whip. He lashes his whip at Zastin like a madman. Zastin struggles to block or evade the whip attacks. Then Stem strikes the sword out of Zastin's hands, closes the distance, and slices Zastin across the chest, cutting through his armor. Zastin collapses in pain.
When he looks up, he sees Stem raising his blade for the killing blow. He brings it down on Zastin's head-
VUUSCH!
In the nick of time, Rito blocks Stem's sword with his own, saving Zastin.
"I'M the one you want," he says.
Stem grins, backs up and focuses on Rito. "Yes, you are."
The two circle each other, preparing for another round. Though his dark matter sword is only half as long as Stem's energy blade, Rito stands strong and resolute. Zastin can only watch, injured and unable to help.
...
Stem attacks Rito with his whip. With all of his experience dodging Yami's attacks following his perverted accidents, Rito ducks and maneuvers his way around the whip with ease. He gets closer to Stem, forcing the latter to use his sword. Rito swings his blade, which locks with Stem's. The two opponents push against each other, fighting for higher ground.
Zastin tries to stand, but collapses again. Suddenly, Rin appears and helps him sit against the wall.
"Miss Rin? What're you doing here?" asks Zastin.
"Making a choice," replies Rin, turning her attention to the fight.
Stem headbutts Rito, forcing him back. While Rito's dazed, Stem slices for his head. Rito spins his sword within his hand, blocks Stem's attack, and then slashes Stem's left eye, blinding him; it's the exact same move Rin used on Rito during their training session.
Wow, thinks Rin.
Stem staggers back in pain, clutching his bleeding eye.
Rito stares at his sword, impressed with himself. "Wow."
But then, his right watch flashes red and his sword vanishes.
"No, no!" he shouts.
With both watches empty, he's unarmed. He backs away from Stem in fear. The cyborg-alien marches forward, fury in his one good eye.
"You're gonna pay for that, worm," he says.
Then he lunges and cuts Rito across the shoulder. Rito screams in pain, falls to the floor and clutches his wound. Rin watches with worry. She quickly tears the bottom end of her dress, and breaks a wooden leg off an overturned table.
With Rito on the floor, Stem plants his foot on his chest and points his blade at his face. "Now you-"
THWACK!
Rin strikes the back of Stem's head with the broken table leg. Stem stumbles back a few feet, and Rin stands between him and Rito.
"Rin," says Rito, surprised.
She shoots him a quick smile.
"You little freak," growls Stem.
Rin stares daggers at Stem, triggered and angry by the use of that word. She holds the table leg like a sword and attacks.
Even though she's human and he's half-alien/half-robot, she forces him on the defensive. And even though her blade is wooden, she's attacking so fiercely, it doesn't break against his energy blade. Using precise and powerful strikes, she pushes Stem outside onto the balcony, giving him no time to counter.
Back inside on the floor, Rito stares at her in wonder.
She really is...incredible, he thinks.
Rin goes for another swing, but Stem swings back with all his strength, and slices her wooden "sword" in half. Then he slaps Rin across the face, knocking her to the floor.
"Rin!" yells Rito.
"Enough," hisses Stem, looking back at Rito.
He reactivates his whip and lashes at Rito, wrapping the coil around his leg. Then using the whip like a fishing line, Stem reels Rito across the floor, dragging him outside. Rito scrambles for something to grab onto as he's dragged closer to Stem.
"Come here, little worm," says Stem, readying his sword.
Rin grabs her halved sword and rises. "Let him go!"
She strikes Stem's gauntlet, deactivating his whip and releasing Rito. Before Rin can strike again, Stem swipes the halved sword out of her hands, and grabs her by the throat.
"Fine," he says. "You first."
He activates his jet boots, flies over the balcony and hovers in the air, holding her with an outstretched arm.
Rito sees what's happening and runs out onto the balcony. "No!"
With her neck in Stem's grasp, Rin dangles helplessly a thousand feet in the air. When she looks down, her acrophobia kicks in, overwhelming her with vertigo and fear. She screams and clings onto Stem's arm for dear life.
000000
Down on the street below.
Police and news reporters arrive on the scene. Saki and the other restaurant patrons gather on the sidewalk. A helicopter circling the penthouse restaurant catches Saki's eye; that's when she sees Stem in the air, about to drop Rin.
"Oh, no," she gasps.
000000
At Risa's house.
The news plays on TV. It's live footage of Stem holding Rin hostage while Rito attempts to talk him down.
Risa, Mio, Haruna and Yui (wearing pajamas and enjoying a sleepover) watch the news in shock.
"Rito?" asks Haruna, worried.
000000
On the set of a music video.
Everyone stops working and gathers around to watch the news, including Run and Kyouko. They too are just as shocked and worried.
000000
On the sidewalk outside a TV store, a bunch of TVs play the news.
A crowd of passersby watch in surprise, with Yami and Mea among them. They trade nods, and then take to the sky as fast as they can.
000000
At Rito's house, the news plays on the living room TV.
Mikan, Celine, Lala, Momo and Nana watch in disbelief.
Lala runs for the door. "Momo, Nana, let's go!"
"Right!" reply Momo and Nana at once.
The three princesses rush outside, unfurl their wings and fly off into the night.
Mikan, carrying Celine, follows them and stops at the front door. "Please hurry, you guys!"
Celine speaks her gibberish, urging the girls to save Rito and Rin.
Nemesis appears in the foyer, not the least bit worried. "It'll be okay, Mikan."
"Nemesis," says Mikan.
"I'm sorry," says Nemesis. "I still haven't fully recovered from my fight with King Gid, so I won't be of any use. But like I said, it'll be okay. Trust your brother. He'll know what to do."
She, Mikan and Celine look back at the TV.
000000
Back on the balcony, Rito approaches the railing while Stem holds Rin.
Light tears fill her eyes; she's about to die, and she's terrified.
"I am sick and tired of these games, Rito Yuki!" yells Stem.
"Stem, don't," says Rito.
"Surrender yourself to me now, or your girlfriend becomes street pizza on three," threatens Stem.
He loosens his grip on Rin's neck. Her shoes slide off her feet, and fall towards the ground. She screams again, and holds onto his arm even tighter.
"Okay, okay!" begs Rito. "You can have me. Just put her down, please. Right here on the balcony."
Rin manages to speak while being choked. "Rito, no."
"Rin, I have to," replies Rito.
"One," threatens Stem.
"No," pleads Rito, starting to crack.
"Rito, look at me," mutters Rin. "I'm not worth it. Think about Mikan."
"And YOU think about Tenjou-senpai!" shouts Rito.
"Two," threatens Stem.
"Stem, please!" begs Rito. "Take me! Just take me!"
"Whatever happens, tonight, you have made me the happiest girl in the world," says Rin, happy-crying.
"Stem!" yells Rito.
"Three," threatens Stem.
And then he drops Rin.
...
...
...
"NO!" yells Rito at the top of his lungs.
Rin screams for her life as she plummets to her death. Rito doesn't hesitate; he runs for the railing, jumps straight off the balcony, and dives into a free-fall after her. Stem watches with a bewildered expression, never expecting Rito to just jump and dive to his death.
"That works too," he says, shrugging.
000000
Down on the street, Saki screams, watching Rin and Rito fall.
At Risa's house, Haruna, Risa, Mio and Yui all react in horror.
At the music video set, Run and Kyouko gasp with fright.
At Rito's house, Mikan covers her mouth as tears stream down her face.
000000
Rin keeps screaming as she falls.
Above her, Rito angles his dive and falls even faster, catching up to her. He spreads his arm, crashes into Rin, and holds her as they fall together.
"Rito? What're you doing?" yells Rin over the wind.
"I'm not letting you go!" yells Rito, hugging her even tighter. "I never will!"
...
Once again, all sound disappears from Rin. The howling wind, the sirens below, all of it. The only thing she can hear is her heartbeat, pounding and telling her what she already knows. Heavy tears fly out of her eyes. She smiles, happy Rito would do this for her. Then she wraps her arms around him, and shuts her eyes, accepting what comes next.
As they get closer to the ground, the crowd backs away.
Rito follows Rin's lead and closes his eyes. He takes a deep breath, exhales, and the whole world slows down.
...
...
...
Nemesis' words echo through his mind.
Feel the dark matter within you. It's like any other form of energy. Balance it, then disperse it.
...
Rito opens his eyes and suddenly-
A pair of wings made of dark matter materialize out of his back. Without thinking, Rito spreads his new wings, carries Rin princess-style, and flies into the air just before they slam onto the pavement. The crowd watches them ascend, and cheers their hearts out. They've no idea what just happened, but they don't care; they're just happy they survived.
"YES!" yells Saki, cheering the hardest.
She looks back at the penthouse restaurant, and a grim realization dawns on her.
"Zastin," she says before running back inside.
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At Risa's house.
Risa and Mio jump and dance with delight.
Haruna cries tears of joy. "I'm so glad. Rito."
Yui also begins to cry, but then quickly wipes away her tears; typical tsundere.
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At the music video set.
Run and Kyouko hug and twirl each other around, overjoyed.
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At Rito's house.
Mikan and Celine hug each other, relieved.
Nemesis touches Mikan's shoulder and smiles. "Told you so, fufu."
"Yeah," replies Mikan, turning back to the TV. "Way to go, big brother."
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Up in the air, Rito flies over the city skyline with Rin in his arms.
"Uh, whoa," he says.
He still can't believe it himself; he's flying. He's actually flying. He checks the Neme-watches; both of them are still empty.
How did I...he thinks.
Just then, Rin quivers against his chest; her eyes are still closed.
"Rin...it's okay. Look," he says.
She slowly opens her eyes, and sees him smiling at her. "Rito?"
Then she looks down, and is greeted to the dangerous sight of another thousand-foot drop. She squirms in Rito's arms, terrified.
"Hey, hey, it's alright," assures Rito. "I got you. I got you."
Rin calms down, and realizes she's being carried in his arms while he's somehow flying through the air. "Rito? What the? How did?"
"I told you," he says. "I'm not letting you go."
Rin gasps and blushes. Her eyes sparkle like the stars above.
...
Rito lands on the roof of another building, and puts Rin down. His wings disappear on their own. It takes him and Rin a moment to collect themselves after what just happened.
"Are. You. Kidding. Me?!" roars Stem.
Rito gets in front of Rin just as Stem appears above them in the air.
"Why can't you just die?!" he roars.
This is bad. I don't have any power left, thinks Rito. Then he glances at Rin. Who cares? I WILL protect her, no matter what.
"Rito, look," says Rin.
Off in the distance, Lala, Momo, Nana, Yami and Mea are all flying towards them; reinforcements, much to Rito and Rin's relief. Stem sees them too, grits his teeth, and shoots Rito a death glare with his one good eye.
"This isn't over, little worm," he says.
Then he flies off and disappears into the night.
Rito and Rin sigh in relief. Then they stare at each other for a moment.
"Uh...some date, huh?" he says, trying to comfort her.
Rin laughs and embraces him, happy to be alive. "You saved my life again. Thank you, Rito."
He's surprised, but then embraces her back. "You're welcome, Rin."
"Hey, Rito, Kujou-senpai!" shouts Lala, cheerfully waving as she and the others fly their way.
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Back on the penthouse balcony, Saki helps Zastin walk out to the railing by having him lean on her shoulder.
They watch Lala and the others join Rito and Rin on the distant roof. They smile, happy that they're all safe and everything worked out.
Then they look at each other, and become flustered before looking away.
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Darkness.
The closed eyes of Rin flutter open.
She's shocked to find herself in a dark void, naked, and tied up by black tendrils. She tries to break free, but fails.
"You can't escape," says a ghastly voice.
Rin turns and sees a black sword with one red eye staring right at her; it's Bladix.
"You belong to me, now and forever," he says.
More black tendrils rise from below, and lunge at Rin with deadly intent.
Before she can scream, a knight in shining armor with a blue cape comes out of nowhere, jumps in the way, and slices the tendrils with his blue energy sword. He wears a helmet, which covers the upper half of his face.
"What?" yells Bladix.
The knight cuts Rin free, removes his cape, garbs it around her naked body, and carries her in his arms like a princess. Then he smiles at her, and offers his sword. Rin smiles back, and grabs the hilt. They hold the sword together, fly towards Bladix, and pierce him right through the eye.
"No!" yells Bladix, disintegrating into nothing.
The dark world around them fills with heavenly light, and they stand in a field of flowers beneath a clear blue sky. The knight puts Rin down, and removes his helmet, revealing himself to be none other than Rito. He and Rin stare at each other.
...
She closes her eyes, and offers her lips. He leans in close for the kiss.
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Rin bursts awake, her face flushing like crazy.
She finds herself in bed. Another dream, but not the same scary one as before. She buries her face in her pillow, and squeals with embarrassment.
"What in the world was that?" she asks.
Then she takes a deep breath, calms down, and looks at her phone; the time reads 3:41 AM. She lays down, and tries to go back to sleep.
...
She rolls around in bed, unable to pass out.
...
She throws off the covers and gets out of bed. "Alright, alright."
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Meanwhile at Rito's house.
Rito emerges from the hallway bathroom, yawning. "Man, what a night."
He reenters his bedroom; no Momo or Nemesis in his bed tonight.
I'm really glad Lala and the others showed up when they did, he thinks. But still, I need to get stronger so that I can protect them too. Stem will be back. And I'll need to be ready.
As he crawls into bed, he spots someone outside his window.
"Huh?"
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Out by the front gate is none other than Rin, wearing a sweater and leggings.
She's about to open the gate, but stops herself.
What am I doing? she thinks. I've gotta stop inconveniencing him like this. Besides, there's no way he'd still be awake. Not after tonight. I should just go.
As she starts walking away, a voice calls out.
"Rin?" asks Rito.
Rin stops in her tracks. To her surprise, Rito emerges from his front door, and meets her at the gate.
"Oh, hi, Rito," says Rin, nervous.
"Hi, yourself. Everything okay?" he asks.
"Oh, yes, no need to worry. My apologies for dropping in at this hour. It's just I...well...I wanted to talk and...I don't have your number," she says, slightly embarrassed.
"Huh? Oh. Oh! Wow, you're right," he replies, also embarrassed. "Well...we'll, uh, just have to take care of that, hehe."
"Yes, we well," she says, giggling. "Especially if we're gonna keep up your training."
"Yeah," he says.
Unbelievable, he thinks. I've saved her life twice, and I STILL don't even have her number? What is wrong with me?
He coughs and collects himself. "So, uh, what brings you here?"
"Well, I…I'm honestly not sure," she responds.
"Can't sleep?" he asks.
"You could say that," she replies.
"Me neither," he says, offering her a smile.
At that moment, seeing his smile, all the doubt within Rin's mind and heart vanishes. She gulps, clenches her fists and approaches Rito.
"Rin?" he asks.
She doesn't respond; just clenches her fists even tighter.
"Wh-what is it?" he asks.
...
"I love you," confesses Rin.
Rito stares at her in disbelief.
...
"And I..." she continues. "I...oh, I can't believe I'm saying this. Ahem. I'd like to be...in your future harem."
Rito keeps staring at her, processing her words, never imagining she of all people would ever say such things to him.
"I won't ever leave Miss Saki," she says. "And I was afraid of having to choose between her and you. So I've decided to choose you both. For now, I want to stay by her side. But when you become king of Deviluke, I'll be waiting. That is, if you'll have me."
Then she looks away, waiting for his response. An unbearable moment of silence passes.
...
Rin looks at him, anxious for his answer. "Rito?"
Suddenly, Rito thrusts his lips against Rin's, shocking her. Then he backs off with instant regret.
"Oh, no. Sorry! I'm sorry!" he says. "Y-you just, you looked so beautiful, and I love you too. And I couldn't help myself, and I-"
"Shut up," she hisses.
"What?" he asks.
She grabs him by the collar, and yanks him closer. For a second, it looks like she's about to murder him. Instead, she thrusts her lips against his.
"Wow," says Rito.
He and Rin smile at each other, and warmly embrace. Then they connect their lips one more time, sharing a real, passionate kiss.
Unbeknownst to them, up on the second floor of Rito's house, Nana watches them from the window with a look of devastation.
Author's Note: Rin is my second favorite character behind Yui. Naturally, I wanted her chapter to be as romantic and exciting as possible. Much longer than the others, I know, but there was just so much I wanted to write. Plus, as one of the girls who love-hates Rito, getting her to fall for him took more work than those who love-love him (such as Lala and Run) or love-like him (such as Risa and Kyouko). What'd you think? Did you enjoy reading this as much as I did writing it?
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