Ha-ho~! I'm back! From a long line of school work and...a lonely Valentine... -.-||| *sigh* Anyway, please enjoy~! I'm sorry for any mistakes!

Wish Upon A Wing

The Prince's Motive

Kaneko stared at the bare trees from her window. The sky was dusty-grey and cold drafts blew outside. Kaneko gave a small shiver before walking away from the window.

"Winter is here," she muttered.

She wrapped her shawl around her shoulders and settled down next to her fireplace. Kukoi crept up to Kaneko and joined her side. The two savoured the silence and warmth.

"Kaneko!" shrieked Fang.

Kukoi's eyes flew open while Kaneko quickly stood up.

"What is it Fang?" she asked.

"Come!" panicked Fang, "It's the Ruins!"

Kaneko hurried to her desk, Kukoi was at her heels. Fang landed on her desk and pointed his wing to a map that lay out open. The map was of the Kingdom of Light and at the drawing of the Ruins a light was glowing. Kaneko leaned over the map.

"A powerful source of energy is coming from the Ruins," she breathed.

Yuki's white ears perked up as he listened to the wind of winter. He was standing outside in the cold mountain air. His white Chinese garments flapped in the wind. Yuki's ears listened intently to the winds whispering.

"Yuki?"

He quickly turned to his side. Amrita had walked outside of the hut, shivering. Yuki hurried towards her.

"Oh Amrita," he sighed, "Don't come out here. You'll catch the death of cold."

Amrita looked at him innocently with her deep red eyes.

"But you can seem to be fine," she shivered.

Yuki chuckled, "That's because I don't feel the cold."

He led her back inside.

"Want a cup of tea to warm you up?" Yuki asked.

Amrita nodded. Yuki poured the sweet-smelling golden liquid into a cup and handed it to her. He then looked out to the window, the wind was still whistling outside.

"Is something wrong Yuki?" Amrita asked.

"It's alright," he replied.

"Does it have something to do with the man who Onii-chan worked for?" Amrita continued.

Yuki stared at her. She stared back into those kind blue eyes.

"…Yes," he said softly, "It does."

Amu slipped her arms into her cream-coloured, woollen, turtle-necked sweater. She then pulled it over her head. She pulled on some long black pants and a pair of short white boots on. Amu then walked into the white marble hallways of the palace. As she walked, Amu looked out of the tall windows. The bare trees outside were like sleeping skeletons.

Winter has arrived yet it still hasn't snowed.

She walked into the dining room where the rest of the friends are already sitting. Amu sat beside Tadase.

"Are you alright?" he politely asked.

"Yes, I'm fine," Amu smiled.

It's been a few days since she discovered Shigeru was alive. That meant it's been almost a week since she last saw Ikuto. Amu picked up a spoon and helped herself to a bowl of warm soup. She didn't dare return to her house because she feared loneliness would creep back to her since there was no Shigeru or Ikuto.

So she stayed at the palace where her friends kept her company. Amu would sometimes wonder in the library but she didn't go into the secret chamber because of Mia's warnings. Amu looked at her friends who were happily eating and chatting.

Are they aware that this bright-looking palace holds a lot of dark secrets?

The kingdom's ruler, Princess Mia had appeared sweet and kind but Amu caught glimpses of her real side. Amu's hand slightly trembled as she remembered how close Mia was to killing Ikuto, by using Tadase.

"How are you today, Hinamori Amu?"

Amu nearly dropped her silver spoon in her soup. Mia was standing by the door.

S-Speak of the devil…

Mia's green eyes were fixed on Amu. Although her eyes glistened, Amu could see some hardness in them as well.

"I-I'm fine, thank you," she replied as politely as she could.

Mia smiled, "That's good."

Suddenly Redwing landed on Mia's shoulder and Masanori appeared. She whispered something in her ear. A serious expression passed over Mia's face.

"Please excuse me," she announced, "I have some business to attend."

Tadase patted Amu's knee. "I've noticed you seem tensed around the princess," he observed.

There was a pause.

"S-She's not what she seems," Amu whispered, "Because… she nearly… killed Ikuto."

Tadase stopped patting Amu's knee. "Ah, I see…," he muttered.

Ikuto stared at his trembling blood-stained hand. A river of red was trickling down the corner of his mouth. This was the most amount of blood he had lost in the year. His head was spinning slightly from the blood loss.

"Feeling a bit woozy, are we?" chuckled Hydrin.

Ikuto turned to him. Hydrin was still standing by the hole. The dark energy was growing bigger each passing day.

"You're lucky Tsukiyomi," Hydrin smiled, "That I haven't killed you yet."

Ikuto remained silent.

Hydrin then waved his hand carelessly, "But of course," he continued, "I can't. Since you're… oh, how should I put it?"

Ikuto's eyes narrowed, "Don't speak about it," he growled.

Hydrin merely laughed, "If you say so," he smirked.

"She actually found you, your Highness?" repeated Ebony.

Pearl stared down at the glass coffin that held Zina.

Yes. She did discover me. We had a nice conservation.

"Wow," breathed Ebony, "She must be pretty observant to discover this room."

She's clever in her own way.

Suddenly the water in the pool lapped the edges uneasily.

"What's wrong, your Highness?" Ebony asked.

Pearl felt the atmosphere had gone tensed.

Something is happening at the Ruins. Inform the fire fox and red dragon. Tell them to warn her immediately!

Tadase was walking with Amu.

"Things have been pretty quiet," he remarked.

Amu nodded, "I agree. Hydrin seem to be lying low and Ikuto…has been quiet as well."

There was silence for a bit.

"Valentine is coming up as well," smiled Tadase.

Amu gasped. So many things had happened so she didn't have time to notice the special events in the year.

"Oh my gosh! You're right!" she exclaimed, "There's going to be so much to do! I got to get presents for all of you!"

Tadase laughed and placed his hand on her shoulder.

"Worry about that after we resolved the main problem, okay?" he smiled.

Amu relaxed and smiled back. Suddenly a strong wind blew from behind.

"What in the world…?" gasped Tadase.

Amu's eyes widened when she noticed something. Embers and red rose petals were carried by the wind. Suddenly voices filled her ears; familiar voices.

Amu-chan!

Amu!

She drew a breath.

"Ryuu?" she whispered, "Kitsune?"

The voices became clearer.

'Amu-chan!' called Kitsune, 'You must hurry!'

Amu looked around. "Hurry to where?" she whispered.

'The Ruins!' exclaimed Ryuu, 'Before it's too late!'

Then the wind subsided.

Tadase hurried over to Amu. "Amu-chan, are you alright?!" he cried.

Amu turned to him, "Tadase, we must…!"

Suddenly Masanori appeared. "Hotori-kun, Hinamori-san," he called, "Come to the throne room. The princess wants to see you."

They followed the minister. The rest of the friends had already gathered in the throne room.

Mia sat on her throne. "Something has happened in the Ruins," she declared, "I want all of you to investigate for me."

The friends blinked.

"What sort of 'thing'?" asked Nagi.

"Archaeologists had fled the site," Mia explained, "According to them; two men in black chased them out. After that had happened, we've been sensing a large energy source being emitting from the Ruins."

"That's strange indeed," muttered Kairi as he pushed his glasses up his nose.

"So what will it be?" asked Mia.

Tadase bowed, "Of course we'll go."

"Yes! Another adventure awaits us!" Kukai grinned.

"Sounds like you're eager to drive into danger," sighed Utau, "And die."

"Why would the princess send us instead of going herself?" whispered Rima, "She probably doesn't want her hands to get dirty, hmph."

They were about to leave when Amu called out.

"Can I come?!" she asked.

Tadase stopped and smiled at her.

"No," he replied, "According to the archaeologists, the men seem to be Hydrin and Ikuto. I don't want to risk getting you hurt."

"But I have to come!" insisted Amu, "If it involves Hydrin, I must!"

Tadase blinked. "What do you mean?" he asked.

"I think I might be able to change him!" Amu pleaded.

Tadase sighed. "Nonsense," he said, "Hydrin is just a man that craves for blood shed that is all."

"You're wrong!" cried Amu.

Tadase looked slightly taken back.

"I don't think Hydrin is a bad person!" she continued, "No bad guy is born evil!"

Nagi smiled to himself. There was silence.

"Alright," Tadase sighed, "Make sure that I don't regret this."

Amu beamed, "I won't!"

She clenched her fist in determination.

This might be risky. I'll have to talk to him and who knows whether Hydrin will listen or not.

With her eyes still fixed on the glowing map, Kaneko got out a piece of paper from the drawers. A strange symbol has been painted on it. Kukoi's eyes widened when he saw the symbol.

"Kaneko, you're not…!" he was cut off by Kaneko.

"I have to!" she said, "It's getting bigger by the minute!"

Fang stared at her with concern. Kaneko held the paper in between her middle and index finger. She held in front of her face.

"There no choice," she muttered, "Otherwise they won't make it in time."

Hydrin chuckled as he peered into the hole.

"Any time now," he smiled.

Ikuto bit his lip as he watched the dark energy swelling bigger and bigger. Suddenly they heard many footsteps running towards the Ruins' doors.

"Oh, it seems we have guests," Hydrin announced.

Ikuto slowly stepped back into the shadows. Amu and her friends burst in.

"I knew it," growled Tadase, "It was Hydrin."

Hydrin sweetly smiled at the group but particularly Amu.

"Well, isn't it Hinamori-san?" he chuckled, "It's been a while, hasn't it?"

"Yes. It has," Amu replied carefully.

Ikuto watched silently in the shadows. He fingered something hard and cold in his pocket.

"Please Hydrin! Stop what you're doing now!" pleaded Amu.

Hydrin laughed, "And why would I do that?"

"Because, do you really think this is the right thing to do?!" continued Amu, "Are you willing to end people's lives to accomplish your desire?!"

Hydrin frowned. A small growl escaped his mouth.

"That's enough chatter for you," he muttered.

"Are you willing to go that far?!" cried Amu.

"I said that's enough!" Hydrin snapped.

Suddenly Amu's shadow was pulled forward, bring her along with it. Hydrin wrapped his arm around her shoulders and Amu felt cold steel being placed against her skin; a dagger.

"Amu-chan!" Tadase cried.

"One step from any of you, and this girl gets her throat cut," snarled Hydrin.

Tadase stiffened. The others stood still as statures, with uncertain expressions.

An evil smile spread across Hydrin's face. "Yes that's right," he chuckled, "Watch while I throw your Positive Wing into the dark energy!"

"Amu-chan!" screamed Tadase.

"Wait a minute," said a voice.

Hydrin, Amu and the others turned to the shadows. Ikuto had stepped out and he was pointing something at the prince; a pistol. His fingers were already on the trigger.

"Cut the girl's throat and I pull the trigger," Ikuto said solemnly, "You may have said not to move but you didn't say anything about moving our hands. Now, release the girl."

Hydrin remained silent. Amu blinked at the pistol.

Wait a minute. Isn't that the pistol that I used on the journey?

Hydrin's eyes narrowed.

"You wouldn't," he rasped.

Ikuto shrugged. "I might," he replied.

Amu's eyes widened.

Wait! If I remember correctly, I used up all the bullets in the pistol while fighting that two-headed cobra!

She stared at Ikuto.

So he isn't really going to kill Hydrin, he just wants him to release me.

Hydrin's grip on Amu loosened.

"Very well," he muttered.

Kaneko had her eyes tightly shut. She was still holding the paper in front of her. Kukoi and Fang watched Kaneko with worry. Kaneko's face had gone pale and her lips pressed tightly together.

"I hope she's okay," Fang softly squeaked.

"Me too," Kukoi muttered.

Beads of sweat were slowly appearing on the young witch's head. Her followers could do nothing but watch and hope.

Hydrin pushed Amu roughly away. She stumbled but her friends rushed forward and helped her up. Utau turned to her brother with a small smile. Ikuto still had the gun aimed at Hydrin.

"Now hear the girl speak," he said, "Isn't that one of the duties of a prince?"

Hydrin glared at him before turning to Amu. She straightened up.

"Please Hydrin," she said gently, "Tell me your desire."

"Isn't it obvious?!" Hydrin snapped, "It's to get the Tsubasas and grant my wish; to rule the kingdom!"

Amu wasn't taken back nor did she flinch.

"But is that your true desire?" She asked softly.

"What are you talking about?!" snarled Hydrin, "You don't even know me!"

Ikuto continued to watch Hydrin carefully but he had one eye on Amu. She smiled.

"That's true," she replied, "But I know the person you use to be."

Tadase stared at the pink-haired.

Amu placed her hands on her chest, "You used to be a kind person, Hydrin," she continued, "A person that looked out for other people's best interest. Well, at least that's how your lover viewed you."

The friends gasped, "Lover?!"

Hydrin's eyes widened. He then frowned.

"She hated me," he hissed, "That's why she left me."

"You got it all wrong Hydrin!" Amu cried, "She never hated you!"

The friends listened intently while Ikuto was smiling to himself.

"What?" said Hydrin.

"Well, she left in order to protect you," Amu explained, "Unfortunately she didn't stat clearly what she was going to do in her journal but really she wanted to protect you from the lure of omnipotence."

Hydrin stared at the girl.

"She never stopped loving you," said Amu with a smile on her face, "She really didn't want to say goodbye to you."

Amu clutched her hands together as she closed her eyes. "She loved you so much that she's willing to do painful things in order to protect you," she finished.

When Amu looked up to face Hydrin, she was shocked. The ice in his eyes seemed to have melted into tears for water was leaking from the prince's eyes. Hydrin held out a hand and a tear landed in his palm.

"My sweet butterfly…," he whispered.

"Hydrin?" called Amu with concern.

"That's right," he whispered, "My true wish was… was to get her back. My anger from when she left have blinded me," Hydrin looked up at Amu who looking at him worriedly, "But now, I can see the light clearly now."

And for the first, Hydrin smiled a true smile, "Thanks to you Hinamori."

Amu beamed back at him. "Oh it's nothing!" she said modestly, "Now you don't have to release the dark energy!"

Hydrin's smile suddenly dropped. "The dark energy…?" he repeated, "Oh no," he quickly turned to the hole and gasped, "It's too late."

Kaneko's fingers were now violently shaking and her face was wet with sweat.

"Kaneko?!" cried Kukoi.

Suddenly Kaneko opened her mouth and she started to chant something that they couldn't make out. Fang edged closer to her.

Kukoi rushed up to her. "Kaneko!" he cried.

Suddenly something red dropped past his face. His eyes widened.

Blood?!

Suddenly Kaneko's pale aqua eyes open but they looked feverish.

"I-I can't hold it," she gasped.

Then…RIP!

The paper tore into pieces. Kaneko's chair rocked back and she fell onto the ground.

"Kaneko!" Kukoi screamed as he leapt down.

Fang fluttered down.

"Kaneko?!" Kukoi called, "Can you hear me?!"

Kaneko's aqua eyes looked at him before drawing to a close.

"KANEKO!"

The water churned in the pool. Ebony and Pearl looked up and quickly flew to the pool.

Ebony! Pearl!

Zina's voice echoed loudly in their mind.

"What's wrong your Highness?!" Ebony asked.

Get the white fox immediately! The young witch has fallen! Tell him to check on her as soon as possible!

"Yes your Highness!" bowed Ebony.

Pearl peered down at the pool. Using telepathy, she talked to Zina.

What happened, your Highness?

Kaneko had used all her strength to suppress the growing dark energy. We can't lose another life!

The friends gave a cry as the ground rumbled beneath them. Then, like jets of lava spewing up, dark energy erupted out. The dark energy took shape of a giant body with long arms. The group stared as white eyes and a mouth appeared.

"An Akuma," gasped Yaya.

"I-I corrupted the pure energy that the Ruins held," confessed Hydrin, "Then an ultimate Akuma was formed. I was planning to use it to destroy the kingdom."

"How could you?!" cried Tadase.

"Tadase, please!" insisted Amu, "It's our fault. We should have come earlier."

Suddenly the Akuma raised its clawed hand in the air and brought it down, where Amu was.

"Amu-chan!" Tadase screamed.

"Amu!" Ikuto cried.

Amu was frozen on the spot. Suddenly Hydrin rushed forward and protectively spread his arms in front of her. Amu watched in horror as the Akuma swiped at Hydrin, causing him to fly through the air and painfully smack into the stone wall before falling onto the hard ground.

"Hydrin!" gasped Amu.

She quickly turned to Nagi and Rima.

"Nagi! Rima!" she called, "Attend to Hydrin, quickly!"

The two nodded at her and quickly rushed to the fallen prince. She turned back to the monstrous demon. It eyed her with its blank white eyes. Amu felt fear grip her heart. Suddenly she felt a strong hand on her shoulder. She turned to see Ikuto standing beside her.

"Don't panic," he smiled, "We'll be right next to you."

Amu couldn't help but smile back, "Right!" she beamed.

Kaneko struggled to open her eyes. The first thing she saw was Kukoi leaning over her. She strained to sit up but Kukoi's sharp voice stopped her.

"Don't even think about it," he hissed, "Lie down and stay still."

Although his voice sounded demanding but she sensed some anxiousness in it. Kaneko obeyed.

She then heard Fang's voice.

"Kukoi!" he squeaked, "The white fox has arrived!"

"Bring him in!" Kukoi called back.

Kaneko heard the familiar rustle of silk and satin slippers crossing the floor. Yuki's worried face came in her view.

"Let's take you to your bed first," he smiled.

Kaneko felt Yuki's arms shifted underneath her and she was lifted off the cold ground.

"Will she be alright?" said Amrita who had tagged along.

"Yes," Yuki replied.

The white fox placed the young witch down in her bed. Yuki checked her temperature and blood pressure. Kukoi, Fang and Amrita watched from the side.

"Your temperature was high before but now it's gone down," Yuki reported, "Also your blood pressure is low."

He stood up, "I'll see if you got some of the medicine I need, while I search, please rest."

He turned and left the room. Kaneko sighed then flinched when she felt something touch her hand. Kukoi had placed his paw on hers. Kaneko smiled down at him.

"Everyone, attack!" Tadase ordered.

Utau took a deep breath. "Times like this," she muttered, "It's time to get serious."

Suddenly a pair of unique wings sprouted from her back; a bat wing and an angelic wing. She took to the air with Kukai at her side.

"Keep your eyes peeled," ordered Utau.

Kukai grin her, "I love it when you worry about me."

A burning blush came over Utau's cheeks. "What are you saying?!" she demanded.

Kukai merely grinned at her. Suddenly he sensed something.

"Move!" he ordered.

The two quickly flew to the sides, narrowly dodging an orb of darkness that the Akuma had launched. Back on the ground, Ikuto quickly scooped Amu up bridal-style and ran as the Akuma swiped at them with its claws. Chie threw her crescent moon shaped shurikens. They wheezed through the air but the Akuma knocked them out of the way.

"Chie, move!" cried Masayoshi.

Chie turned and had seconds to lean back as daggers flew through the air. One landed in the Akuma's eye and it shrieked with pain and fury. It opened its mouth shot out beams of dark energy and electricity. The friends ran for cover and Yaya's screams didn't calm the tension. Ikuto placed Amu down in a safe corner. She noticed he was out of breath even though the battle barely begun.

"Are you alright Ikuto?" she asked, "Was I that heavy?!"

"What?" he gasped, "No. It's not your fault. I'm fine."

Amu looked down at his hand. They were slightly trembling. Since they were in the shadows, Amu didn't notice the blood stains on Ikuto's hand. The Akuma slammed its hands onto the ground causing a small quake. Suddenly, like hail, rocks emitting dark energy rained down.

Utau and Kukai had to swiftly fly in and out in order to avoid being hit. Some of the friends conjured shields while Tadase sent out orbs of light to counter the attacks.

"Take this!" cried Yaya and she sent out small beam of mysterious energy.

Kairi thrust out his sword which sent out jets of green energy to boost Yaya's attack. It landed between the Akuma's eyes and it shook its head in irritation.

Amu conjured up eight sharp white feathers and sent them at the Akuma. Ikuto used a similar attack but with black feathers. While the battle was commencing, Nagi and Rima helped Hydrin up. Blood was running down his head.

"A-Are you alright?" Rima nervously asked.

"I'm fine," muttered Hydrin, "Thank you."

"Are you sure, your Highness?" Nagi inquired.

"Yes," Hydrin weakly smiled, "Go, help your friends."

Nagi and Rima looked at each then quickly rushed to their friends' aid. Hydrin panted as he lied in the shadows. He watched as the Akuma relentlessly attacked the group.

"What have I done?" he rasped.

"Princess," called Masanori.

Mia lifted her head off her hand.

"What is it?" she asked.

Masanori beckoned to the window.

"It has begun," he announced.

Mia slipped off her throne and strolled to the window. There was a sinister glow coming from the stone wings of the Ruins. She could feel tiny vibrations from the quakes the Ruins were plagued with.

"S-Should we help them?" Masanori quietly asked.

Mia continued to gaze at the glowing Ruins. The constant flashes of the Ruins reflected in Mia's green eyes.

"Princess?"

Mia closed her eyes, turned and swept pass her minister.

"No," she replied, "Not at all."

Masanori looked at the Ruins, his eyes filled with worry.

Rima sent out shards of ice while Nagi sent out jets of water. Amu ran alongside with Ikuto.

"I need to get closer to it in order to purify it," she muttered.

"I'll cover you," said Ikuto, "Be careful."

Amu nodded. She charged forward at the Akuma while Ikuto leapt into the air and hurled a shadowy blob. It landed smack in the Akuma's face. Amu stationed herself in front of the towering monster. Her lock glowed and her magic circle appeared beneath her.

The Akuma noticed her. The lock transformed into the staff and small white wings unfolded from her back. But before she could cast her spell, the Akuma leaned down to face her.

"You're the Positive Wing?" it said in its booming voice.

Amu looked up only to find herself staring into its blank eyes.

When Hydrin saw this, he gasped. "Don't…!" he rasped.

A low chuckle came deep from the Akuma's throat.

"What a pitiful state you are," it laughed, "Such a young girl possessing the almighty Positive Wing."

Amu could feel its white eyes boring into her head.

A pitiful state?

Realizing what's going on, Ikuto rushed forward.

"Amu!" he cried, "Don't lis-"

But suddenly dark waves wrapped around his body and the rest of the friends. Even Kukai and Utau were bounded. The black waves tighten every time they struggled. Amu stared into the Akuma's eyes. Her own eyes had gone hazy.

"You know, if you haven't been born your parents would not have lost their lives," remarked the Akuma.

"Really?" she whispered.

"Amu-chan!" Tadase cried, "Snap out of it!"

"Please Amu-chii!" pleaded Yaya.

"Hinamori!" Kukai called.

"Hinamori-san!" Masayoshi tried.

"Amu!" Rima shrieked.

Ikuto struggled against the tightening ropes.

"You can't do anything right," continued the Akuma, "Think about it. You couldn't save Amrita from her curse nor Ryuu or Kitsune from their deaths. They died because of you."

Amu stiffened. She placed her hands on her cheeks. Her staff dropped down and shattered into sparkles.

"R-Ryuu and Kitsune died because of me?" she repeated.

Her wings dispersed and her magic circle vanished. Her lock started to darkened and black waves slowly appeared and started to consume Amu.

"Amu-chan!" Tadase yelled.

Hydrin struggled to stand but his legs kept failing him.

"If this continues," he panted, "She'll be consumed by darkness and be lost forever."

Ikuto struggled even harder.

"It's best if you were not even born," the Akuma laughed, "Then you'll be a less burden for your friends!"

Amu's face grew pale. "I'm a burden to my friends?" she said softly.

The Akuma raised its arms, claws extended. "Yes!" it grinned, "Now, let me end your life for you!"

Shigeru's eyes flew open and he quickly sat up. His dark hair was battered with sweat.

"Amu!" he cried.

Shigeru threw his covers aside and dragged himself out of bed. He winced when his feet touched the ground but he forced himself to keep going. Lulu, who had heard Shigeru's cries, rushed upstairs. She gasped when she found Shigeru half-way down the stairs. He looked like he's in a lot of pain. Shigeru was panting and his face was moist with sweat.

"Hinamori-san!" gasped Lulu as she rushed to Shigeru's side, "What are you doing out of bed?! You know, you haven't fully healed yet!"

"Amu," he rasped, "Something has happened to Amu."

Lulu led Shigeru back into the room. "Don't worry so much Hinamori-san," she reassured, "She'll be fine." She helped Shigeru into bed.

"I hope," she quietly added.

"No you don't!" growled Ikuto.

Miraculously, he ripped the dark ropes apart and leapt down. Ikuto ran towards Amu and quickly blocked its fatal attack with his sword. Sparks flew everywhere. Tadase stared at him.

Amazing he thought. He was able to free himself while the rest of us can't.

Ikuto stood his ground as he used all his strength to keep himself from falling under the force of the Akuma's arm.

"Amu!" he called.

She didn't respond.

"Amu, can you hear me?!" he tried.

"I'm just getting in the way of everyone," Amu muttered, "Why was I even born?"

"To bring happiness!" Ikuto replied as he tried to force back the Akuma, "You possess the Positive Wing! An object that represents light and joy! Two qualities you have!"

Amu's eyes slightly widened.

"Ryuu and Kitsune didn't die because of you! They died FOR you! They wanted to protect you and so they were willing to die!"

Ikuto could feel himself being pushed back slightly.

"If you weren't born, your friends wouldn't have met you and their lives would be different!" Ikuto continued, "Some of them had sad pasts!"

Rima, Nagi, Yaya, Kairi, Chie and Masayoshi widened their eyes.

"How could he tell?" they murmured.

"But when they met you, you shed light into their sad stories," said Ikuto, "And especially Tadase's life would be very different if he didn't meet you."

Amu's eyes slowly started to return to their golden state.

Ikuto gave a small smile to her, "My life would be different too if I didn't meet you," he finished.

The darkness that was consuming Amu suddenly disappeared. Ikuto quickly pulled back then thrust forward, stabbing the Akuma in the arm. It screamed and whacked Ikuto aside, just like it did to Hydrin.

"Ikuto!" Amu screamed.

She had now returned back normal. The friends were released from the ropes of darkness. Ikuto quickly got up but he clutched his sides. Amu gasped as she saw a large dark red stain against his black shirt.

His back is bleeding!

Ikuto forced himself to stand. He gripped his sword tightly.

"Amu!" he called, "Your sword! We have to weaken it before we can purify the Akuma!"

Amu nodded and drew out her sword. She and Ikuto stood back to back with their blades pointed at the Akuma and charged. Rima freezes chucks of ice and hurls them at the monster. Nagi sent powerful jets of water into the Akuma's eyes, in order to blind it of a bit. Yaya opened her eyes. They had sharpened and irises slashed down.

"No one messes with Amu!" she said in her creepy yet mature voice.

She thrust her hand out and the Akuma was hit with a strong telekinetic force. Tadase and Kairi took this chance to joined Amu and Ikuto and the four plunged their blades into the Akuma's shadowy body. It shrieked as they pulled out their swords.

"Now Amu!" called Ikuto.

Yuki and Kukoi were standing on the roof of Kaneko's cottage. Kaneko had fallen asleep. Amrita stood next to Yuki with Fang perched on her head. They were staring to the west where the Ruins lay. The sinister glow coming from the stone wings was slowing subsiding.

"They're winning!" Amrita announced.

"Go! Go!" Fang squeaked.

Yuki smiled at his adoptive daughter/sister. He then turned to the illuminating night sky.

"You're very loyal Kukoi," he said.

Kukoi's ears twitched, "What do you mean by that?" asked the grey cat.

Yuki chuckled, "All these years, you stayed by Kaneko's sides with Fang, of course."

"You're not hinting what I think you're hinting," Kukoi huffed.

Yuki cleared his throat in attempt in hide his laughter.

"I see Fang teased you a bit too much!" Yuki chuckled.

Kukoi sighed, "I keep telling him and I'll tell you as well," muttered the grey cat, "I don't have feelings for Kaneko."

"No need to lie to me," smiled Yuki, "I can keep my lips sealed. Besides, it's best if Kaneko figured it out herself."

Kukoi rolled his gold eyes. "As if," he mumbled, "Kaneko may be intelligent about lots of things but when it comes to other people's love feelings, she's clueless. Besides…," Kukoi paused for a moment, "A follower can't have feelings for their master or mistress."

Yuki nodded, "Ah so that's the reason why you're hiding it."

Amu's lock glowed and her magic circle appeared. Small white wings sprouted and Amu's staff appeared in her hands. She slowly drifted into the air.

"Everyone," called Tadase, "Help Amu!"

With both of their Amulets glowing, Rima summoned a howling blizzard while Nagi conjured up a watery cannon. Yaya's eyes widened and her pink pendant glowed.

"Kairi-kun!" she called, "Let's do it!"

Yaya threw a hunk of psychic energy. Running his hand across his samurai sword and his Amulet (that hung from his sword's hilt) glowing, Kairi sliced his sword through the air which a storm of sharp leaves was created.

Kukai confounds the Akuma with speed then conjured a blade of air and slashes. Utau sent a hurricane of pure white feathers and red butterflies.

Chie and Masayoshi joined hands and fired a beam of starlight and moonlight. Tadase charged a beam of light then released it. Hydrin watched in awe.

Amu raised her staff above her head, "White Swirl Purification!" she chanted.

She then swung her staff down and a swirl of white feathers flew to the Akuma. Amu gasped. The Akuma wasn't disappearing like the others. It was resisting.

"It's not working!" she cried.

Ikuto leapt up beside her, "Hang on!" he called.

His key that hung on the side of his pants glowed. A magic circle appeared beneath him. Ikuto raised his sword above his head and brought it down.

"Black Jet Absorption!" he cried.

A jet of black feathers came out from the Akuma into his body. The lights from the key lock and all the Amulets filled the Ruins. The friends strained to keep their attacks up.

Amu and Ikuto took a deep breath and uttered two last words, "Full Power!"

The light from the key and lock intensifies. Amu's clothes changed into a pure white gown with gold trimming and symbols. A golden head piece appeared around her head. Ikuto's clothes too changed. He wore handsome black garments with silver trimming and symbols. A single silver earring appeared on his left ear.

The swirl of white feathers and jet of black feathers grew stronger and the Akuma screamed, "Noooo!"

BOOM!

An explosion of black stars rained down. Amu and Ikuto drifted down together. When they landed on the ground, their special clothes dispersed into sparkles, replaced with their original outfits. Amu and Ikuto turned to one another and smiled.

Mia raised her eyebrows. The sinister glow from the Ruins had vanished.

"They did it," she murmured, "They actually did it."

Masanori let out a small sigh of relief.

In the secret room, Pearl and Ebony flapped their wings vigorously.

"Your Highness!" Ebony called, "The Positive Wing and the Negative Wing have done it!"

A smile spread across Zina's face.

Thank goodness.

Amrita and Fang did a small victory dance.

"They won!" cheered Amrita.

"Yippee!" Fang squeaked.

Yuki laughed while Kukoi merely smiled. Inside, Kaneko sat up and rubbed her eyes sleepily. When she heard the cheers and laughter coming above, she faced the west and smiled.

The friends ran over to Amu and Ikuto and gathered around them. Hydrin forced himself to stand and he staggered over the hole. The prince clicked his fingers and the hole closed. Hydrin then bent down and dislodge the gem.

"Let's go outside for some fresh air," suggested Masayoshi.

"Good idea!" beamed Yaya who had returned to her childish personality.

Hydrin softly sighed and walked into the shadows. Amu noticed and quietly followed him. When the friends stepped out, they gave a cry of awe.

"It's snowing!" cried Nagi.

"The first snow of winter," Kairi smiled.

Kukai quickly grabbed Utau by the hands. "Let's dance!" he grinned and started spinning Utau around.

"Stop it!" Utau protested, "We all know you're a terrible dancer!"

"I wanna dance! I wanna dance!" pestered Yaya and she grabbed Kairi and started to wildly spin him.

Meanwhile, Amu had followed Hydrin to the top of the Ruins.

"Why are you here?" he asked.

Amu flinched. "Y-You know I was following you?" she stammered.

Hydrin turned and blinked at her. "Of course," he replied, "I could hear you."

A sweat drop appeared on Amu's head but she quickly recovered.

"Why don't you come with us?" she kindly suggested.

Hydrin turned away. "Thank you," he muttered, "But I can't. Mia won't accept me and I don't want to be in that palace."

Amu cocked her head on one side, "Why not?"

"Please don't ask," he whispered softly.

"Does it have something to do with Princess Mia?" Amu continued.

Hydrin clenched his fist.

"There could be a chance you two can be friends," Amu innocently said.

"Quiet!" snapped Hydrin as he turned to face her.

As he did, Hydrin swiped his arm through the air and accidently knocked Amu. She lost her balance and fell backwards, off the edge of the Ruins.

Amu extended her arm out. Hydrin quickly rushed over and reached out. In slow motion, his hand drew closer to hers. But just as he was about to close his hand, gravity pulled Amu down. Hydrin stared as Amu plummeted to the ground.

No. This can't be happening. Stupid me.

Hydrin opened his mouth and screamed, "SOMEONE SAVE AMU!"

Tadase and Ikuto spun around, when they heard Hydrin's cries, only to see Amu falling through the air. Their eyes widened.

"Amu-chan!" cried Tadase.

"Amu!" called Ikuto.

The two young men rushed forward. Amu stared upwards. The sight of Hydrin's pained and desperate face was growing smaller and smaller.

What did Princess Mia do to you, Hydrin? Can't we all get along? Both light and dark?

"Hang on Amu-chan!" She heard Tadase calling from below.

Suddenly Ikuto burst forward and leapt into the air. He wrapped his arms protectively around Amu. And, as nimble as a cat, Ikuto landed safely on the ground.

Hydrin let out a sigh of relief and straightened up. He then turned and vanished. Amu caught the last glimpses of the prince before he had disappeared.

"Hydrin…," she whispered.

Ikuto placed her down.

"Are you alright?" he inquired.

"Yes," she replied, "Thank you."

"Thank goodness you're alright," Tadase sighed.

Amu smiled and looked up at the dusty grey sky with its white snowflakes raining down.

"How pretty," she commented.

"A beautiful ending of a battle," nodded Masayoshi.

"I agree," Chie said.

"Much better than Kukai's dancing skills," agreed Utau.

"It looks so soft and fluffy~!" cheered Yaya.

"Actually snow is frozen water so it's not so 'soft and fluffy," corrected Kairi.

"Oh, don't be such a wet blanket!" whined Yaya as she shook him.

The friends laughed except for Ikuto, who looked at the snow with a sad expression.

"So you actually did it," said Mia.

"Yes," nodded Tadase, "The Ruins was holding a large amount of energy which Hydrin then corrupted i, resulting a Great Akuma. Luckily we defeated before it could get any stronger and get out."

Mia played with a golden strand of hair.

"Yes," she nodded, "But you still let Hydrin get away."

Amu then stepped forward, "I have a good feeling he's not going to cause any harm to us anymore, Princess Mia," she replied.

Mia rubbed her chin, "Ah," she said, "If you say so."

Amu bravely looked at her, "I know so," she said.

Mia narrowed her eyes at the pink-haired girl.

Masanori appeared by Mia's side, "Princess," he called, "The Positive Wing wouldn't lie about something so important. I, myself, believe the girl."

Mia stared at her minister before turning back to the group.

"Very well," Mia sighed, "Thank you for your assistance. All of you may return to your original homes."

Tadase bowed. "Thank your Majesty," he said. As the friends exited the room, Ikuto lingered back.

Mia glared at him and he glared back. "Out," she growled.

Ikuto slowly turned and walked out.

Amu watched the snow fall from her bedroom window.

"Are you going to sleep or sit there gawking out of that window?" snickered Ikuto, "The cold air might freeze that amusing expression on your face forever."

Amu slowly turned around and glared at him.

"How about you go to sleep and stop teasing me?" she shot back.

Ikuto chuckled, "Ok you win."

He turned away and leaned against her bed. Amu lies down and pulled her covers to her chin.

"I can't believe a year has nearly gone by," whispered Amu, "What about you Ikuto?"

Ikuto was grateful that his back was facing Amu because he was frowning.

"Trust me," he replied, "I count it by days."

"Really?" mused Amu.

Ikuto stiffened as he felt something trickled out of the corner of his mouth. He quickly wiped it with his thumb. Ikuto could see the dark red stain on his skin in the dim light.

"Goodnight Ikuto!" sang Amu.

"Goodnight," he mumbled back.

He sat there, listening to Amu's soft breathing.

"My time limit is nearly up," he whispered.

He closes his eyes.

Flashback

"Ikuto-kun," smiled a woman as she gazed out of the window.

Snowflakes drifted past the glass.

The young boy walked up to the woman, "Yes Mother?" he said.

"When the snow melts, what does it become?" asked the woman.

The boy blinked, "Water right?" he replied.

The woman chuckled, "True but it also becomes spring."

She continued to stare at the snow and the boy followed her gaze.

"Spring is the time of new. Winter is the time of rest. Summer is the time of fun while, lastly, autumn is the time of work," concluded the woman.

"So the seasons represent something?" repeated the boy.

"Yes," smiled the woman as looked down at her son. "I especially love spring," beamed the woman.

End of flashback

Ikuto opened his eyes. Judging by her breathing, Amu was fast asleep.

"Spring is also a time of partings," muttered Ikuto, "I don't have much longer here. Soon I'll have to say goodbye just like what I did when you passed away, Mother."

He looked down at his stained hand then clenched it together.

To be continued…

Yes. I took 'what becomes of snow' from 'Fruits Basket'. It was just such a nice quote. EVERYTHING GOES TO THEIR RIGHTFUL OWNER! Please review, guys. Thank you!