Hero Vigilante Recap
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Ok so let's recap here from the last chapter. So far Sakura has been captured and placed in an underwater cavern. The men who put her there placed a bomb in the entrance of the cavern and detonated it, blowing up the cavern and the cliffs around it. Meanwhile Tori has discovered that Luna saw the murderer and didn't report it. He also learns that Luna knows Neeba from when she was under Moto's care.
Li has solved the mystery from behind the murders. He realizes that Morimoto has been contacting Neeba inside the prison to attack young females that have the characteristics of Sakura, Luna and Madison because of their involvement with the court case last year. Moto hates them because they landed him in jail.
Li and Eriol have been working over the security tapes from the prison, trying to get evidence of Moto contacting Neeba. They have the visual footage of him contacting Neeba but they can't pick up what he is saying.
Getting a lead on the man himself, Li and Eriol track Neeba down at the train station and a fight breaks out. Li and Neeba fight it out on the tracks and in a last second attempt at saving himself, Li manages to stay alive but Neeba loses his hand beneath the wheels of the train. In the hospital, Li demands for a DNA test to be run.
Later on, determined to see Sakura again, Li decides that he will do anything in his power to save her. Jiang calls shortly after to say that in three days time, Neeba will be trialed in court.
And so ladies and gentlemen that was where I last left you. Now onto the final chapter of the story.
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The mood suited the day. The sky was dark and cloudy and the wind battered against the windows as it swept through the small town. Small droplets of rain hit the window and slid down the surface like tears. Li leant against the window sill and watched them as they disappeared passed the glass and onto the roof below.
Her room still smelt like her. It was faint but it was still there. That sweet, soft smell that carried the scent of spring flowers and innocence and a just a small kick of sass that he loved. He leant his forehead against the cold window and watched the storm brew outside.
Today was the day.
In less than two hours they would enter the courtroom and Neeba's fate would be decided. There was a knock on the door and Eriol's head popped in. He spotted Li and walked into the room.
" You ready? " he asked. Li turned to meet his concerned gaze.
" Ready as I'll ever be. This has to work right? I mean, once we get Neeba behind bars, Moto will talk right? "
" Yeah that's the plan. " Eriol replied.
" You're as worried about this as I am. " Li said.
" You betcha. " Eriol laughed nervously. " I mean I've gone through the whole 'what if's' and 'but's' and there's room for something to go wrong, but then I know that you won't let anything happen and all my doubts disappear. We'll nail him together and then you can face Moto and get the girl as well. "
" You sure know how to make me feel better. " Li offered a small smile.
" I try. So, you ready? "
" Let's do this."
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The other cars passed by and everything flew by in a blur. Luna sighed as she watched everything pass by. Soon they would be back in Tokyo and then the real mess would begin. They had stayed in a small hotel along the way. They could have kept going but Tori had spoken with Jiang once again and found that there would be a court case in three days. Seeing no reason to hurry, they had pulled into the hotel and booked themselves in.
Now, before she knew it, D Day had arrived. They had left early that morning and now they were heading back home. She shot Tori a look and saw that his jaw was still stiff. So he was still pissed at her. Oh well that couldn't be helped now could it?
" We'll be arriving soon. " Tori grated not looking at her.
" I know. " she replied.
" I - " he began but his phone started to ring. Breaking numerous rules, he answered it and listened the voice on the other end while he drove.
He hung up and placed his phone back while he merged into the right lane. The turnoff was coming up and he was dammed if he was going to miss it. So this was it. Another day, another trial, another man to suffer the consequences. More rules and lives destroyed because one man couldn't back off. He gritted his teeth and wished he could slug the bastard himself.
Jiang had said that there was news that he needed to know before they went into the court room and although he wondered what it could possibly be, he knew he was ready for this. He was ready to hammer the last nail into Morimoto's coffin. Like his sister and his father, he was ready to end this.
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A Few Days Earlier...
The waves lapped against the shore as he stood on the beach. The seagulls called out to each other high in the air as they circled close the island. The sea breeze caressed the skin and teased loose strands of hair as he stood on the sand. The tremors from the other day were gone thankfully. Nothing like an explosion to trigger off the volcanoes known throughout the region.
Nothing, he thought, like a wake up call from Mother Nature to make you remember that work was calling.
Soft footfalls behind him had him turning. He smiled as she came towards him. His love. Her eyes met his full of concern. She knew that it was time to act. Time to go back and do what was right.
" So you'll be leaving. "
" Yeah I guess. Sorry babe I wish I could stay here as much as you do. "
" I know you have to go play cop. I understand. "
" You're one in a million M- " he stopped when she placed her fingertips against his mouth.
" You so much as look at another girl and you're dead. "
" Come on, give me some credit. I'm a married man now. You're the only one for me. "
" I will hunt them down - " she began, her eyes glowing hot with spirit.
" Oh shut up and come here. " he pulled her to him and kissed her long and hard leaving no doubt that she was his.
" No looking. " she said when she could think again.
" Promise. Oh and make sure you let me know if anything happens. " he said solemnly.
" I will. Good luck. "
" Thanks. It'll be good catching up with Jiang again. "
" Give him hell for me. " she shot him a sassy grin.
Laughing heartily, he hugged her to him right there on the beach.
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In China . . .
Madison had just come out of the bathroom when she heard noises coming from down the hallway. She tightened the belt on her robe and stuck her head into the kitchen and frowned when she saw Jiang pick up his suitcase. She shot him a shy smile when he turned and noticed her. Deciding that she was bound to find trouble unless he watched over her, Jiang had offered her a place to stay at his house until the issue with Moto was over. He had to give Hiragizawa credit - he had discovered she was quite a handful.
" Sorry Miss Daidoji, I hope I didn't wake you? "
" No you didn't. " she replied and made her way to the coffee. " You are up early. Going somewhere? " she peered at him innocently.
" Obviously this early hour hasn't dulled your sense of curiosity Miss Daidoji. " he replied with a twinkle in his eyes.
" Does my curious nature offend you Fu-san? " she arched a brow. Jiang laughed as he lifted the suitcase up.
" I have something urgent to attend to Miss Daidoji. Please remain here so that I know that you are safe. One of my friends will take care of you. If you need anything ask Neboshi about it. "
" Thank you. Give my regard to Xiao Lang. " she replied as he walked out the door.
He paused and turned to face her, curiosity evident on his face.
" Oh don't bother trying to deny it. " Madison said putting her cup down. " I happened to see the paperwork on your desk last night when I went in to use the phone after mine died on me. You're going over there to help Li and Hiragizawa, which I'm guessing means that they are on to something. I want in on the details. "
" Not one for small talk are you Miss Daidoji? " Jiang asked sitting the suitcase down again.
" I run a fashion industry Fu-san. If I laced my words with honey then I wouldn't be where I am today. If Li and the others need you to back them up then I guess that this 'something' that you are going to Japan for is big. I'm guessing that it has something to with Moto am I right? "
" Very good work Miss Daidoji. Maybe I should replace Hiragizawa on my team and put you in his place. " Jiang replied wryly.
" Please don't try to flatter me and you're getting off the point. " she said moving towards him.
" I would have you know that I don't care for the Protective Custody thing and I still don't. If the others are onto something that can help Sakura-chan, then I want in on it. "
" I'm sorry Miss Daidoji. You will remain here where it is safe and then when all this is done, you will be released and you can access any information you desire. " Jiang replied nodding to her.
" You think I will sit here quietly while my friend is in trouble? "she shot back.
" You will do all you can to keep yourself safe so therefore you're friends won't have to worry about you. " Jiang waved goodbye as he left.
" Stubborn, no-it-all males. " she muttered as she went back to her room to get dressed.
Like hell was she going to sit back and let everything take place while she was stuck here like a prisoner.
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Present Time...
Several police cars were parked outside of the Tokyo courthouse. Beside one car Li leant casually against the side of it with his arms crossed. Beside him was Eriol looking around with his hands in his pockets. Police escorts stood around waiting for the prisoner Mr Yoshii Morimoto to arrive as well as the man Neeba from his cell in lockup.
A car pulled up near Li and Eriol and they looked surprised as Jiang himself got out of the car. He nodded at them before speaking with the other police officers around. From the back of the car another man stepped out. His kind and worried gaze met with Li's and Li straightened in surprise to see Sakura's father, Aiden, in front of him. He was meant to be in Protective Custody.
Another car came to a halt not too far away and Li's eyes widened when he saw Tori and Luna get out. What the hell was going on? They were all meant to be in PD. He shot Jiang another look and saw that Jiang's head jerked in the direction inside. Li nodded and walked up the stairs into the courthouse. Li waited until he walked inside the door before he let some of the tension out.
" What the hell - " he began but he was cut off by Jiang's sharp look.
" Please wait until all people are assembled. " he said and bowed as Aiden, Tori and Luna came into the room followed by Eriol.
" Ok now tell me what the hell everyone is doing here. " Li demanded.
" We're here because we were told to come. " Tori replied. " And because we can help. "
" Help with what? " Li questioned.
" Never mind at the moment. Everyone will play their part as we have discussed. " Jiang replied. " You will all know what to do when the time comes. "
" So we all just go in unprepared and let it - "
" Xiao Lang, hush." Jiang said looking at Tori. " Now what we needed to discuss. There isn't time so I can't sugar-coat it. Sakura is missing. We don't know where she was taken from and we don't know if she is alive, but " he held up a hand when Tori went to speak shocked. " I'm hoping Moto will talk once we take Neeba out of the picture. Then we can hopefully act. If that fails, we will turn this country upside down until we get some answers. "
" My sister is missing and you just stand there calmly as if you don't give a shit. " Tori snarled. " When the hell did this happen. " his dark gaze flew to Li's. " Where the hell were you?!! Weren't you meant to watching her?!! "
" A lot has happened since you took off. " Li muttered refusing to meet his furious gaze.
" Yeah I just bet it has. " Tori muttered in reply.
" Alright now we go in and we do what we have to, understood? " Jiang looked at Luna and then the rest of them. " Li these are those results you wanted. "
" Arigato. " he ripped open the folder and then scanned the letter. What he read made him go pale. How could this be? There had to be a mistake.
" I suggest you take that evidence and use it to your advantage. " Jiang whispered softly as the others filed out.
" You know about this? " Li whispered shocked. Was there nothing that this man didn't know?
" Yes. I saw it as well. "
" . . . "
" There is no where to go but forward. " Jiang clapped him on the shoulder and then left him to brood.
Ten Minutes Later . . .
"... Mr Neeba Kensuke and Mr Yoshii Morimoto do you understand why you have been brought here today? " the judge asked.
" Someone thinks that I am responsible for a crime I didn't commit. " Moto replied snidely.
" Likewise. " Neeba replied.
" These are serious allegations against you both. We will proceed. " the judge banged his gavel and quiet fell. " Begin. "
" Your Honor, my name is Xiao Lang Li. I'm a detective from the Chinese division. I would like you to hear why I suspect these two of the vicious murders that have been committed. . . . "
Two Days Ago . . .
Off the shore of a small island a canoe pushed through the choppy water as the sun shone down brightly. The two people inside were fishing, looking for a good catch to take back to their families. They had been following the schools for some time now and were ready to cast their nets. They expertly turned the canoe around and waited patiently.
They were about to cast their nets when the school of fish they were tracking suddenly scattered. Their shadows swimming gently under the currents one second and the next, gone. Bubbles started to explode of the surface not too far away from them and the two young men watched in horror as something huge bubbled out of the water. It broke the surface and remained motionless.
As the fear passed when they realized that they were not going to be eating or killed, they maneuvered the canoe closer until they started talking rapidly in their native language when they realized it was not a 'sea monster' but a 'someone' laying on a dead tree. It looked like a young girl but it was hard to tell with their face down in the water.
Acting of instinct the two men hauled the body into the canoe and started to paddle for shore. When they got passed the more dominating currents, the older one brought his paddle into the canoe beside him and then started to look over the girl. She was pale as death and still as an empty shell. He pressed his fingers to her throat and felt nothing, but he couldn't keep paddling knowing that he could try.
Using CPR, he continued to give her life as his friend paddled for the shore and called at the top of his lungs for the village people to hear him. Someone must have noticed because flocks of villagers came running into the waves as they pulled up on the sand. Men pulled the young woman out of the canoe and laid her down on the sand as the village elders arrived.
The young man knelt down beside her and continued to give CPR as he had been taught. He was rewarded by a faint flutter in her chest. The others waited and watched as he breathed deeper and pressed harder on her chest. She finally coughed and he rolled her onto her side as she spat the salty water from her lungs. He turned her back on her back as her eyes fluttered open and he gaped seeing the deep emerald of her eyes before they rolled back up into her head and she passed out again.
" Nai'a. " he muttered in his native tongue. (Means Dolphin in Hawaiian. Closest thing I could google for mermaid - give me a break.)
They carried her to the village where one of the elders gestured for them to lay her down. The doctor of the village came forward and started to check on her. He shook his head after a moment and said in his native tongue that she had been in the water for a long time and that he wasn't certain where all the cuts and bruises had come from. He said if that if treated carefully - she might make it.
Eleu, the man that helped her listened on with his friend and shot each other glances. This could be a bad sign or a good one. Ku'uaki, one of the motherly figures, came forward and said that she would look after the girl. She would work with the doctor and do as much as she could. The doctor nodded and then gave out orders to see that treatment begin right away. He sent a young girl to fetch the things he would need. He also got one of the men to send word to Main Island that someone had been hurt and that she was being treated.
The man nodded and ran off to pass the message but stopped when they heard the tell-tale sign that a storm was brewing. Dark clouds were on the horizon and coming in quickly. There was nothing that they could do today. They set to gathering the children and bringing everyone inside before the rain and thunder hit. They shifted the young woman into a back room where she would be comfortable while the doctor and Ku'uaki bandaged her and helped try to stabilize her.
Due to the storm it was a while before the message could come through about the young woman in the water. When it did, a young woman was tidying up her house. She listened her eyes going wide as the transmission crackled over the radio that her husband left her. She flicked her hair over her shoulder and then got her keys and raced out the door the wind from the ocean instantly tugging at her clothes and running soft touches across her skin.
She had become good friends with the small villagers scattered nearby. Her and her husband had often visited, danced and ate with them. So if they needed help she would answer the call. She speed across the channel on the boat and waved in greeting when she saw the fishermen on the shore. They smiled and waved in greeting when they saw her. She pulled in at the small dock and instantly started to question them about what had happened.
Her eyes widened further as the story was told and she asked to be able to visit the girl. They led her to the small room where Ku'uaki was looking after her. She walked in and was glad to see that the young woman was awake and not relapsing. Emerald eyes shifted to meet her own dark Ruby. She smiled in greeting as she walked in to sit beside the bed.
" Morning. How are you feeling today? "
" . . . . "
" You've caused a bit of a stir. Everyone is talking about the girl who the ocean raised. You are very lucky to be alive. Do you have a name? "
" ... "
" If it helps, my name is Meilin. It's nice to meet you - nani? " Meilin faulted as the girl stared at her and started to sit up. She reached forward, her arm shaky, and clasped Meilin's hand in her frail one.
" D-d-o, " she swallowed and tried to get her voice to work. " Do you, by any chance, know someone called Mika? " she rasped quietly.
Meilin's eyes widened in surprise.
" I do. " Meilin replied, waiting. The young woman sighed and then smiled slightly.
" Is he a cop? " she rasped again.
" A detective. What does this - " she broke off at the wave of the girl's hand as if the statement was unimportant.
" Cop, detective. No difference. " she replied softly noting the slight frown on Meilin's face. " What are the chances? " she thought to herself aloud.
" I'm afraid you've lost me. " Meilin replied.
" I know your husband. He is connected to someone I know. I remember he said that Mika and his wife Meilin were honeymooning. Congrats by the way. Mika is a great guy. He's helped me a few times. "
" Who are you? " Meilin asked softly a little stunned. The girl shot her a look and gave her a tired smile.
" My name is Sakura Avalon. "
" Oh my God. " Meilin's jaw dropped. " Saku-sakura Avalon? " she stuttered. " What the hell are you doing floating in the ocean?!! Aren't you meant to be in Protective Custody with Xiao Lang?!! "
Sakura's smile was short and ironic.
" There's a story to that statement. " she laid back down and rested her head back on the wall.
" Tell me everything. " Meilin demanded.
Meanwhile . . . . .
Half the day had passed and they still weren't through all the evidence yet. Li paced back and forth as he waited for the short recess to finish. Around him the Avalon family (bar one) sat nearby looking just as pained as he. They had given their evidence and interrogated both Neeba and Moto and now all that was left was for Luna to take the stand and play his trump card.
The guard came out and stated that it was time to go back in. Li sighed and shot everyone a look. This was it. It was time to take Kensuke down.
They all made their way into the courtroom and took their seats. The judge came back in and took his place. He waited until it was all quiet before he looked at Jiang. The other man nodded and the judge took a deep breath.
" Let's begin. Miss Mikazukigata, please take the stand. "
" Hai, your Honor. " she stood and started to make her way to the confession stand.
" Matte. " Jiang interrupted. Everyone turned to look at him. " There is something that Mr. Li would like to say after Mikazukigaa takes the stand. "
" Is it important that you would interrupt my court? " the judge asked, his busy brows down in consternation.
" I believe it will add to Mikazukigata's case. " Jiang replied and then leaned in towards Li. " Hit him fast and low. "
" You don't just mean Neeba do you? " Li asked.
" You news will impact Moto. Do it. "
The Judge looked down at Luna. She looked up at him with a terrified expression and her eyes kept darting to where Moriboto sat staring at her with a snarl. She gulped and focused back on the judge.
" Tell me Miss Mikazukigata. What is it that you saw on the night that the first four murders occurred. "
" I - ah - " she looked at Moto again. " Ano - "
" Miss Mikazukigata, " the Judge spoke softly. " Please look at me. Mr. Moriboto cannot touch you as long as I sit at this bench. "
" Umm, " she sucked in a breath and looked at the Judge. " I was walking home when I saw a shadow move. I watched as Kensuke came out of, what was in the morning, a murder scene. I know Kensuke from when I was growing up under Moto's care. He's evil You Honor. The things that he has done. I - please - Isn't it enough that I saw him come out of the poor woman's house? "
" Miss Mikazukigata, please I know this is hard, but you need to add more to this if it is to have more solidity. "
" Breaking and entering is on the easy list for Kensuke. " she spoke again. " The things he did to those women - for him it would have been child's play. There is no shame in him. Why do you think that Moto was so determined to use him for this? He's his trusted minion. "
The court listened on as she went on to describe every blood curdling she knew of him. She looked only at the Judge as she told him and he could see the terror of a young child lurking in the back of her subconscious. The things this poor child must have gone through.
" So I know that when I saw him that night - that he was either looking for me or on a mission for Moto. That's why I ran. I didn't want to get dragged into again. "
" Thank you Miss Mikazukigata. You may return to your friends. " the judge watched her leave the stand.
" Mr Kensuke - do you realize how serious this is? " The Judge asked.
" You can't nail me for this. " Neeba replied. " You have no weapon, no fingerprints. "
" That may be, but you also have the charges of consorting with minors. You forget that you were in the presence of two underage's at the train station. That alone is a criminal offence. "
" Pffft. " Neeba shot the judge a cocky grin. " That alone isn't enough to put me behind bars for long. "
" Your attitude isn't helping it all either. " the Judge shot back.
Suddenly the doors flew open and a voice rang out.
" STOP EVERYTHING. I HAVE PROOF THAT NEEBA KENSUKE WAS IN CHARGE OF HENIOUS CRIMES. " There was a shocked gasp from the courtroom. Jiang smiled to himself as everyone stared. Li stood up and not only stared, he gaped.
" Mika? "
The other man smiled and walked into the room.
" Who is this? " the Judge demanded looking at Jiang.
" This is my agent who I was working over time. " Jiang replied.
" What? " Li looked over his shoulder at Jiang. " You called Mika back from his honeymoon? " he watched Jiang nod.
" We don't have all day - please share with us what you have discovered. " the Judge said and motioned for him to come forward.
" Recently off the island off Hawaii were several explosions triggering another several tremors. As the explosions rocked the islands surrounding us, (I mean my wife and me respectively) I noticed a boat that was not meant to be in the waters surrounding as it was part of the gift that Jiang had gifted us. "
" Bet you would have loved that. " Li muttered to himself and rolled his eyes. Jiang nudged him and frowned.
" I managed to catch the name on the side of the boat and checked it out. Cut a long story short I followed the paper trail and discovered two men who tried to run as soon as they saw me. I followed them and got them to talk. Seems they were hired by a man by the name of Neeba Kensuke. Seems they were following orders that originally came from a Mr. Moriboto. It seems that they were trying to dispose of a body. I have some people looking into at this moment. "
" You can't go on hearsay. "Neeba snarled. " You don't have prints or anything. "
" Wrong. You're buddies were only delighted to show me your secret base. We got weapons, prints and all. " he held up a folder. " It's all here. "
Neeba jumped up and was restrained by the police guards holding him.
" I guess this is a good time as any. " Li said and looked at the judge. " Your Honor, whilst fighting with Mr. Kensuke on the train tracks I thought something about him was familiar. I later had his DNA taken. I have the results here. Neeba Kensuke is a false name. "
" What the hell?!! " Neeba yelled. " That is my name you bastard! "
" No, you may have been known as Kensuke but your real name is Kitai Mikazukigata. Your DNA matched Luna Mikazukigata's. "
There was a cry from the benches and Li turned to see Luna staring at Neeba in horror. She shook her head and then she let out a keen like a tortured animal and sagged to her knees. Tori rushed to her and tried to soothe her but she just sobbed and sobbed. How could they do this to her?!! She truly had lost everyone.
Neeba stared, frozen in place as did Moto after he had jumped to his feet. He too was pale and staring at Neeba in horror. Eventually Luna pulled herself together and stood with Tori's help. She made her way towards Neeba. The police tried to stop her but one look from the Judge had them backing down. Luna stared into Neeba's stunned eyes.
" My mother made a mistake once, " she began. " and she paid the rest of her life for that mistake. She sent you away so that monster wouldn't find you. She never wanted you to become what he is. " she shot a glare full of frigid hatred at Moto. " She hoped that you would be a better man, but what do you do? You go and sign yourself up with him anyway! " she shrieked.
" You're my - you're my - " he muttered staring at her.
" Sister " she supplied. " I'm your step-sister. "
" I never - knew. " he choked.
" My God, " she shuddered. " The things you have done. " she looked up and pinned him with watery eyes. " You shamed me and yourself, but most of all you shamed our mother. "
" . .. "
" She loved you. She loved you most of all. I could never be what she wanted. It was you she always thought of. That was until he took me too. "
" He took us both. " she sobbed and then dashed her tears away. " I failed you as a sister. I should have protected you. "
The Judge banged his gavel and everyone turned to look up at him.
" I have gone over this file. " he held up the folder Mika had brought in. " Neeba Kensuke, I am sentencing you to prison for your hideous crimes. You will not permitted bail or appeal. Take him away. "
Luna watched as the guards took him away. She turned away and walked down the isle not looking at anyone. Tori stood to give her comfort but she turned away from him and left the courtroom. Li hadn't taken his eyes away from Moto. He watched the man struggle to contain his emotions. He then looked up and met Li's gaze and Li saw such hatred that he nearly balked. Nearly. Instead he smirked.
Moto erupted. He jumped up and slammed his hands on the desk.
" You think you're so clever but you haven't beaten me yet Li! I have always been one step ahead of you and this time you will not come out of this triumphant! You let your guard down and now you have paid the ultimate price! ALL OF YOU!! " he shouted at the others.
" Silence! " the judge banged his gavel.
" You can send me away! " Moto shouted. " But at least I have taken your precious Avalon with me! " he burst into laughter. " That's right! That little bitch Sakura is dead! " he glared at Li and then pinned his gaze on Mika. " That explosion was my men dumping Avalon into the ocean and sealing her there. The explosion would have destroyed the cavern she was tied in and completely shattered it along with her body and soul. "
Li's jaw dropped and his heart stopped. Tori and Aiden gasped and cried out.
" That's right!! " he laughed maniacally. " I had my way and now she is dead! DEAD!! "
" SILENCE! " The judge roared. " Guards take him away. No more will he see the light of day. Moriboto you will be taken to an asylum and there you will remain away from anything that you may use to cause harm. To the Avalon family, you have my deepest sympathy. That is all. The madness is over. " he banged his gavel and people started filing out.
" She can't be dead. " Tori croaked. " She can't be. "
" I know son, I know. " Aiden hugged his son and prayed that the crazy man Moto had become was lying. " Sakura's a brave girl. She'll have found a way. "
" Hey guys, what did I miss? " Madison breezed in with Luna behind her. Her smile died when she took in everyone's wet eyes and somber expressions.
" What the -?! How the?! " Eriol stared at her in shock. " How the hell did you get here?! " he turned on Jiang. " I thought you said you'd take care of her?!! "
" Obviously the only way to keep Miss Daidoji from walking is to either knock her out or plant a restraining order on her to make her stay put. "
" Hmph. " Madison tossed her head haughtily. " If you think that I was going to miss this for the world - "
" You're too late Duchess, " Eriol said and walked towards her and wrapped his arm around her shoulders. " You'd better come with me. We need to talk. "
" If you think I'm going anywhere with y- " she stopped when Eriol motioned at Aiden and Tori.
" Oh my - something's happened hasn't it? " she demanded.
" A lot has happened. " Eriol soothed and motioned for Luna to come too. She nodded and left with them.
" We have to go. " Tori said clenching his fist in determination. " We have to go and see - and see - "
" I'll come with you. " Li said.
" Why would you bother? " Tori demanded. " You transferred her over to some bastard that couldn't do his job right. Why the hell should you be given the privilege of trying to find her? " he demanded angrily.
" Because I want to. " he said. Tori glared but Aiden held out a hand.
" You can come if that is what you want. " he said.
" I do. "
" Then let's go. " he turned to Mika. " Can you lead us to where you last saw the boat? "
" I can try Mr Avalon. "
" Then let's get prepared then. " Mika said.
Two Days Later . . .
News spread across the radio, the TV and the newspaper that Yoshii Morimoto had finally been dealt with but he had taken another with him. Was Sakura Avalon alive or was she...dead? That seemed to be the biggest question of the day. Had anyone seen the young woman?
The waves sprayed out away from the boat as it steered towards the place where the explosion had occurred. Another boat churned up the water behind them. There were divers, forensic investigators, photographers, medical teams and detectives. On the first boat the engine slowed and then died as Li stood on the bow and let the tropical wind play with his messy bangs. His eyes scanned the water and then scanned the small islands near by.
" Ok this was it. " Mika said as he came up front. " I'm going to get these people going and then I'm stepping over to the island where Meilin is. I'm going to see if she's seen or heard anything. "
" If you're going ashore, then I'm coming with you. Besides, I'll be able to see if you've been treating my cousin right. "
" Trust you to breathe down my neck. " he shoved Li playfully. " I can't even se my wife without you making sure I do it right. "
" So he does that with you? " Eriol piped up coming to the bow. " And here I thought I was the lucky one. " Eriol sighed.
" Ah don't let it get you down, Hiragizawa. " Mika smirked. " Li only gives you a hard time because it's his way of showing you that he cares about you. "
" What the bloody hell - ?!!" Li turned and glared at Mika. " Are you deluded again?!! "
" Then he gets defensive because his secret is out. " Mika ducked Li's fist and laughed. " I've studied you for years man, Meilin even told me a few things I'd failed to pick up. "
" Then I'll burry you both together as soon as I choke her and de-brain you. " he growled.
" Time's wasting gentlemen. " Jiang called. " Let's get a move on. "
In a little garden blooming with tropical flowers, a young woman lay serenely in a hammock and rocked back and forth as she stared up at the sky. She watched tirelessly as the big, white, fluffy clouds blew passed. The sun was warm on her skin and she felt content. She didn't mind that she ached or that she had a large bandage on her forehead. All that mattered was that she was alive.
The people here were really nice. They were so nice and friendly that it was no wonder she settled in without a qualm. They had called her the 'sea spirit' and had treated her as an honored guest. Flowers were spread under her and around her where people had placed them. A big hibiscus flower settled behind her ear. She smiled as she closed her eyes for a quiet nap.
After going to the main island and then discovering Meilin wasn't there, Mika thought and decided that she may be on one of the smaller islands where they often went to visit friends. Li followed as they got into the boat and headed to the first smallest island. Mika smiled when he noticed their small boat at the dock. People smiled and waved and Mika called out a greeting. They exchanged greetings and introductions and then he asked about Meilin.
They learned that she was up further on the beach with some of the women. Mika thanked them and then started off in the direction Meilin had gone. They could see small figures in the distance and Mika placed his fingers in his mouth and a high-pierced whistle broke the roar of the waves hitting the shore. A figure looked in their direction and Mika waved. The figure started to run and then a blur flew at Mika and nearly knocked him off his feet. Meilin kissed him on the cheek, the mouth - anywhere she could as she told him she was so happy he was back. She then noticed Li.
She shrieked and then lunged at him and nearly did topple him. She hugged him and laughed with happiness. She stepped back to look at them.
" And what do I owe the honor of two handsome looking men calling on me? " she fluttered her eyes at them coyishly.
" Stop that. " Li said with a small smile. " We don't have time for fun and games. We are here for a reason. "
" What has happened? " Meilin demanded looking at Mika and then back at Li.
" Mei, " Mika stepped forward desperate. " While I was gone, did you - did the people find - " he paused and took a deep breath. " Did you guys find anything while we were gone? "
Meilin's eyes shadowed and then her Ruby eyes flashed. She tossed her head haughtily and then shot then a look from the corner of her eyes.
" As a matter of fact, something did wash up on the shore. Gave us all a scare. "
" What?! " Li stepped forward and gripped her shoulders and made her look at him. His serious expression wiped the playful glint from her eyes. So her cousin had learnt to love.
" Her name is Sakura Avalon. " Meilin finally relented.
Li closed his eyes and stepped away from her and brought his hands up to his face. He looked devastated. Mika looked at Meilin.
" Is she - did she live long? " he asked quietly.
" What the hell are you ding bats on about? " Meilin placed her hands on her hips and shot them angry looks. " She was banged up a bit when the doctor looked at her, but the last two days she's been resting and as far as I know she's lying in a hammock up in the garden. Did you all think she was dead? "
Both Mika and Li were staring at her like she had two heads.
" What?!! " she demanded losing her cool.
" You mean she's alive, here on the island? " Mika asked.
" That's what I said isn't it? " she retorted. " Are you picking up dumb cells from Li? " she shot her cousin an infuriating look.
" Meilin - " Li began threateningly.
" Geez, head up the beach, take a right and then you'll see the arches that promote the garden. Head in there and you can't miss her. " Meilin stated.
Meilin and Mika watched as Li ran off in the direction she had indicated.
" Geez, do all males go addle-brained when their in love? If he runs any faster he's going to trip and get gravel rash on his nose and then I'll have to berate him on his stupidity. " Meilin sighed like a mother fussing over her chick.
" You did good babe. " he said and hugged her to him. " I think you may have just made him the happiest man alive - even though he didn't show it. "
" Yeah well I better get the first invitation to their wedding. " she muttered. Mika burst out laughing and then twirled her around in the air.
" C'mon, we better let the others know. " he said and dragged her alone the beach.
She looked so peaceful that if he hadn't known any better he would have thought that she wasn't sleeping but in eternal slumber. The shadows from the clouds above them passed over her face. She slept in a bed of flowers. They were around her and beside her in the hammock. She looked like an island fairy resting after she'd played all day. His breathing broke the silence as he tried to catch his breath. He could hear the waves crashing against the shore in the distance and wondered if Mika was letting the others know.
Probably.
Then this quiet time with her was all he would get before the others descended on her and took all her attention. Not that he minded. He knew she would be ecstatic that her father and brother were here. The watched as a lock of her hair fell and lay across her face. He bent down and gently brushed it away. She didn't stir and he hated to wake her. She really was an angel.
He leant down and pressed his lips against hers. It was no more than a butterfly touch. Just a confirmation that she was real and alive. Her lips were soft and warm. His heart thumped in his chest as he opened his eyes and saw her Emerald ones staring up at him. His heart jolted. They were greener than he remembered.
She took in his face and then a shadow crossed her face. Before she could say anything he placed his hand on the back of her head and lifted her to him. He hugged her, careful of her injuries, and breathed in her scent. My God, he thought. She's real. She's really real. He hadn't known how terrified he had been until now.
" Sakura, " he said turning to whisper in her ear. " I love you. "
He felt her stiffen and he pulled back to look at her stunned face. He cupped her cheek and met her confused gaze.
" I'm sorry for how I treated you. I regret every day what I did. I should never have left you. It was wrong and I understand if you hate me, but please understand, I was a jerk and I let my stupid male pride get in the way. You are so important to me that I felt cut that you hadn't confided in me. When I thought that I had lost you it felt like I had died with you. "
" Xiao Lang, " she said sounding puzzled.
" Forgive me, " he said and then pulled her to him and kissed her again.
Sakura's POV
She was having such a nice dream. She was dreaming of the old days where she had lived with Li and driven him crazy. She had just scaled the drain pipe and snuck into her room when she had turned around and Li was standing there waiting for her. He shook his head at her and had the look that said he was completely frustrated with her misbehavior. She smiled as he walked towards her. He had cupped her cheek and let his hand slide up into her long hair. He had leant towards her and kissed her as she had come awake.
She thought she must have been still dreaming when she saw his face above her surrounded by sunlight. What on earth was she dreaming this time? She frowned trying to figure it out but she was swept up into an embrace and she felt his warmth and the familiar scent of him. It was like coming home after a long absence. Was this real?
" Sakura, I love you. " had she heard that right? Wow this dream was getting way out of hand. She needed to wake up and soon.
" I'm sorry for how I treated you. I regret every day what I did. I should never have left you. It was wrong and I understand if you hate me, but please understand, I was a jerk and I let my stupid male pride get in the way. You are so important to me that I felt cut that you hadn't confided in me. When I thought that I had lost you it felt like I had died with you. "
" Xiao Lang, " she wasn't dreaming was she?
" Forgive me, " and then her lips were pressed against his again. Oh my God! She stiffened as she realized she was now wide awake.
Syaoran Li was kissing her!
Normal Time
She closed her eyes and opened her mouth to him. She felt him stiffen in surprise. She let her arms go around him and pulled him closer towards her. He toppled and broke the kiss and they both cried out as the hammock tilted and dumped them on the ground. He lay sprawled on top of her as she tried to catch her breath. She looked up as he pulled back and looked down at her. Flowers were scattered everywhere and he smiled shyly at her.
" Sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you - again. " he went to get up but her hand snagged up and stopped him.
" Did you mean it? " she said softly. " Do you really love me? " her cheeks tinged with pink at the statement and he fell in love all over again.
" I do. You nearly drove me nuts when you pretended to be a petulant, egregious brat. But when you went home it was too quiet. I nearly went insane but there was nothing I could do about it because you free once again and I couldn't follow you. I tried to get to know you, but you shot me down with your letter at that party of Daidoji's. That hurt. I never felt so much over a small thing like that.
" I love you for you because no matter how scared you got your main concern was for your family and friends, not yourself. And damn it, I could never get the image of you flashing the ice cream man out of my mind. Only you could do something like to leave an everlasting impression." Sakura giggled and blushed pinker.
" I want to be with you and I want to be your friend. I want you to tease me and drive me crazy but I would love it if you could love me back someday. "
" I had no idea. " she whispered meeting his gaze. " I thought you were indifferent to me. You were the only one I trusted and wanted with me. When I ran scared, I wished it was with you. "
" I have news for you, " he said smiling. " It's over Sakura. You're free; so is your family. Moto is gone for good and the murderer won't kill anymore. You're free Sakura. "
She looked stunned as he drew her into a hug in their awkward position. He kissed her cheek a thousand times and hugged her to him determined to never let her go again.
" Geez I don't know if those two are on or off again. " Madison said from the open archway.
" You'd think they'd take their disgusting display and get a room. " Meilin said smirking as the couple jumped apart.
" Better make room Li, " Madison called. " The big brother is on his way. " she smiled as he scowled.
Li stood up and lifted Sakura effortlessly into his arms. She cried out startled then smiled at him as they walked towards the doorway of the garden where the two girls stood waiting. Sakura gave Madison a brief hug and smiled her happiness. Li set her down as Tori and Aiden ran up to her and pulled her into a warm embrace. They chatted and teased, laughed and hugged some more.
Jiang and the others arrived and smiled at the warm display. Finally it was over. The danger had passed and it was time to live once again.
Jiang smiled to himself as he watched the couple.
Here was to new beginnings.
THE END
One Year Later . . . .
The crowd was getting restless. You could hear their voices gathering in volume. A door banged open and Eriol came sliding in as he tried to control his slippery shoes on the polished floor. He grabbed the post and fixed his askew glasses.
" They are starting to get really irritated out there Li. What are we going to do? "
" We wait. " Li replied as he fixed his collar.
" But we have been waiting for over half an hour. Where the hell could she be? "
" She'll show when she is ready. " Li replied.
" How sure of that are you? " Eriol asked his eyes narrowing.
" Ok, ok. I'll go a look for her. Satisfied? " Li arched his brow.
" Very, hey can you do me a favor? " he asked looking very nervous.
" Depends. Will it get me killed or skewered alive? "
" Only if you get caught. " Eriol replied and tossed him a bag that was on the floor. " Trash this for me will you. Hurry. "
It was only after Li binned the bag that he heard a familiar screech render the air.
" HIRAGIZAWA!! WHERE THE HELL ARE MY CLOTHES!!! "
Li cringed and wished his partner all the luck in the world. He, on the other hand, had a girl to find.
She was going to kill him. Madison had gone hell bent with preparations for this day and on the last minute gone and taken a shower. But somewhere in between her undressing and laying out her clothes for the big day and actually getting into the shower, some sneak had come and stolen her designer clothes. There was only person who hated her wearing her designer clothes and that was that annoying hentai, Hiragizawa.
She screamed his name as she stormed down the hallway in her towel and her hair dripping water after her. She didn't care if someone slipped. She hoped it would be him and that he'd fall and break his scrawny neck. That way she wouldn't have to do it. She opened the door to her dressing room and slammed the door behind her. She looked around the room and noticed a set of clothes lying on the sofa and walked over to them.
Typical.
Casual but effective attire.
She was going to kill him. But first she would tear him to tiny pieces and then scratch his eyes out so he couldn't steal her clothes and ditch them as she suspected he had done. The door opened and she whirled around to see the devil himself step into the room. Her eyes narrowed to slits and she snarled.
" Now, now Duchess." he placated.
" Don't you dare Duchess me! " she screeched and threw a bottle of perfume at him. His eyes widened and ducked at the last second.
" You bloody thief! I know it was you! You - you - Hentai! " she threw another bottle of perfume at him.
" Now Duch - I mean Daidoji, " he dodged another piece of glass and sighed. " It's not a huge crime. "
" They were my clothes. " she retorted and looked around her dressing room for something else to peg.
She jumped when she turned back and found him in front of her. He gripped her shoulders and she stared up at him wondering what he wanted. What she didn't expect was the way he kissed her. He hauled her up against him and took control of her mouth. He took, he plundered and she gave and made him beg. Her towel slipped and fell to the ground but they didn't notice as they fell back on the sofa.
The garden was huge. Luna let her gaze roam the tall, blooming rose bushes and the tranquil setting of the Daidoji mansion. They were back in Japan and Luna couldn't have felt better for leaving that nightmare behind. Inside everyone was waiting and preparing for the wedding but she couldn't feel festive. Her heart was still numb from the shock of finding out that her last remaining relative was a murderer. Talk about a screwed up family.
She walked through the garden and found a tree swing. She sat down with a sigh and closed her eyes as she sung back and forth. She just wished she could let it all go but no matter where she went the memories would follow. She heard footsteps behind her and smiled sadly while she kept her eyes closed.
" You've lost your touch Dark Angel. I can here you. "
" It's been too long now to keep the things we learnt in fear. " Tori replied.
" Hmmm, maybe for some. For me I think I will keep those lessons for years to come. "
" You have to let it all go. "
" You think it that easy? " she asked still swinging back and forth.
" No. But I know you can accept what happened and move on. "
" ... "
" Luna, what you planning on doing? " he asked coming to stand in front of her. She opened her eyes and met his dark gaze.
" I don't know. I think I will travel again and every time I start to brood over the past I will pick up my things and move on until I get distracted. "
" So you'll become a drifter? "
" Mmmmm, seems so. " she replied with a small smile.
" No. You can't. " Tori replied.
" You have no say in it Dark Angel. " she stood up and wrapped her arm around his neck and planted her mouth on his surprising the hell out of him.
" Hmmm, " she smiled coyly up at him. " I've always wanted to do that. " she kissed his cheek a quick kiss and then stepped away.
" See you maybe in a couple of years. Wish those love birds my love and my congratulations. " she waved as she walked away her hips swaying.
Dark eyes watched as she left...
He arrived at his apartment and looked at the outside. No one seemed to be home but yet... He walked around to his window and looked at the drain pipe. There was a sassy red ribbon tied on it with a note on it. He smiled as he opened it and read the few words and then closed the note and headed off in the direction of down town Tomoeda.
He arrived at the flashy club/restaurant and shook his head with a sigh. What on earth was she up to now. He walked inside and heard the tell tale of music blasting through the sound system. He heard laughter and cheers as the beat pumped out fast and hard. He walked into the shadowed bar and smiled at Jamie as he wiped up a table. Jamie returned the smile and motioned for him to head on in. Li walked into the club section and paused. Leiko, Astal and Alexis were all up dancing on the bar to the music with his fiancée.
His soon to be wife was wearing something that should have been called sin and was moving her hips and her body to the beat while men and some women sat drinking and cheering them on. The lights flashed and caught the fire red in her hair. When had that happened he wondered. She had been a brunette last night while they had fallen asleep.
She looked up at their gazes locked and she smiled a slow seductive smile that made his blood go hot and his face flush. She twisted and danced and beckoned him over. His feet moved without him knowing it as she danced. She slid off the bar and reached up on her toes so she could kiss him. Behind them Astal and Leiko shared looks. Astal stuck her finger in her mouth which made Lexi giggle.
Sakura shot them all a look before she dragged Li's chin down so she could kiss him again. When he came up for air, he cleared his head and then gave her a reprimanding look.
" Honey aren't you forgetting something about today? " he said running his hands through her hair.
" I know what today is. I just wanted to have some fun before hand. " she replied pouting slightly.
" But every one is waiting Sakura. " Li stated shaking his head.
" We'll get there in time. " she said and went behind the bar and pulled out three beers and gave them to Astalte, Leiko and Alexi.
" Now I can go. " she smiled and took Li's hand in hers. " I just wanted to settle a few things before I become Mrs Li. "
" If we hurry we can stop people from committing bloody murder. " Li said and then paused thoughtfully.
" I thought you gave up the whole 'Ying Fa' persona? " he played with her red hair.
" I thought it would be fun to go wild once in a while. Just for old time's sake. " she heard three people gag and spit out the beer they had just consumed.
" What the - this is awful! Leiko where the hell did you buy this crap from?!! " Astalte demanded trying not to gag.
" It tastes like soy sauce and something vile! " Alexi cried.
Li shot Sakura a look as she started to walk out of the club.
" You just didn't - ? " he questioned as he ran to catch up to her. He opened the door for her. She breezed through and shot him a sassy grin over her shoulder.
" RACE YA!!" she yelled as she took off like a rocket.
" Oi! Oi! " Li yelled. " You need a groom to get married! " he called after her.
Her laughter drifted down the street as he ran to catch up to her.
God life was great.
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Six Months Later . . .
Tori was fixing his car in the garage listening to music when the hairs on the back of his neck prickled. He stopped working and pulled back from under the hood of the car. He turned and saw her standing in the doorway with a smile on her face.
" Hello Dark Angel. " her voice was like a caress on his parched memory. " I'm back. "
THE END
FOR REAL
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BW2 Thank God, it's finally done. I have spent all day and all night on it and now it is nearly midnight. Dancingwind forever I hope you and your friends appreciate the trouble I went though to get this done. This chapter is for you guys.
So there you have it. It is finally done and I can finally stop worrying about people flaming me with death threats because of my late updates. Did you guys like the ending? I was quite proud of the way it turned out. I laughed at the part where Sakura got the three girls with the soy sauce again like she did with Li in the first story.
I don't think that there will be a sequel to this, (sorry Dancingwind) but I'm not completely ruling it out either. If I ever think of a plot I may just write it. At the moment I'm too concerned with writing my trilogy. I've only got seven chapters of it done so far, so I'll have to work on it now.
If you have any more questions email me or review me and I will answer them. I'm too tired now to write anything.
Good night dedicated fans. I'll return one day.
Please review