Histoire - Log 115829
Mysterious person in Celestia
A few days ago, during our Annual Gamindustri Celebration, we had a surprise visit from an unexpected visitor. After doing three days of research, I came to the conclusion that this being is a woman known as "Cirilla Fiona Elen Riannon." Her whereabouts are unknown, but one thing is for sure, she is definitely not from this world. She apparently can travel through dimensions effortlessly, even to a degree that I cannot manage. But she doesn't seem to pose a threat to our world or any other. I have no qualms with her, while I haven't met her personally; she seems to have the utmost courtesy and a delightful set of manners. But one thing still bothers me though; I've been keeping a track of her movements since, and she seems to be on the run from something. She has moved from world to world without staying long, and not in any particular pattern either. It appears that she is trying to get away from something known as –
End of Transmission
Shura Kirigakure (Upper First Class Exorcist) – Report to the Vatican
Knights of the True Cross – Japan Branch
October 11th
After the incidents of the Impure King in Kyoto, I am pleased to report that everything has been going back to usual. As always, I have been keeping an eye on Rin Okumura, and as you instructed, keeping a safe distance away from him as well. My findings also indicate that Rin Okumura has been developing better control of his power as of recent. Once again, I find myself having to plead that the Vatican deny his clause for execution. However, I understand that all will come in due time when his scheduled Exorcist Exam approaches. I am confident that he will pass it, as long as he doesn't deviate from the path he is on now.
On to more pressing matters, it seems the Honorary Knight Mephisto Pheles has gone missing. I have also kept him under my watchful eyes, but it seems he disappeared without a trace. It is also strange as a few incidents have occurred around the True Cross Academy lately, mainly with the unpredictable changes in weather. I fear that our break after the Impure King has come to a sudden conclusion, and once again we find ourselves in the midst of an unforeseen crisis. As per instruction, I will continue monitoring Rin Okumura and report back with frequent updates.
End of Message
ACT: THREE
SCENE: ONE
It is noon now, and the sun is partially illuminating True Cross Academy through the thick clouds in the sky. Shiemi however, sees none of this, as she runs down the corridor on the bottom floor of the old male dormitory building. The decaying building has most of its windows closed and shut in, making the only light sources dim flickering light bulbs that align the ceilings of the hallways. As Shiemi runs through the hall to the place where she had first met Yomi, she tries to devise a plan to calm the long blue haired girl that had just came and attacked Rin and Yukio. For some reason, unlike the past experiences with the demons, she does not fear this girl, and instead wants to help both her and Yomi. With her trusty familiar Nee on the shoulder, she turns the corner, and sees an unexpected sight.
SHIEMI: (Shyly) H-Hi!
Yomi and Mato who weren't aware of her footsteps, became startled and quickly turned around to face has a delighted and surprised look on her face as she walks forward and greets Shiemi with a slight bow. Mato on the other hand, tilts her head confusedly at the sight of Shiemi.
YOMI: (With a warm smile) Oh! It's you! I never got the chance to thank you! Oh, I also didn't catch your name earlier.
SHIEMI: (Smiling brightly) I-It's Shiemi! And you're Yomi right? I-It's nice to meet you! S-Sorry about what happened before, Yuki and Rin can be kind of- O-Oh… who's this? What happened to-
MATO: (Waving slightly) Hi! I'm Mato! Well, usually people don't call me that right away… but seeing as you're friends with Yomi, I'm sure you're a good person!
SHIEMI: Oh! Hello! W-Where did you come fr-
NEE: (Jumping up and down Shiemi's shoulder) Nee Nee Nee!
MATO: (Amazed) Whoa! Who's that little guy!?
SHIEMI: Ah! I forgot to introduce Nee! Haha! This is my familiar Nee, he's a little greenman, and he's really friendly too!
YOMI: Oh, was this the one who carried me from before? But he was so big back then.
SHIEMI: Yeah, that's him! Nee has many special abilities, and he's really helpful in gardening too!
MATO: (Tapping and poking Nee on the forehead) Hahaha! He's sooooo cute!
YOMI: Ahh! Mato! Don't just go poking it like that! You might hurt it!
MATO: (Quickly retracting her hand) Oops! Sorry!
SHIEMI: Haha! It's okay! Nee likes it when others pat him on the head. Oh by the way, what happened to the other girl from before? Is she okay? She was fighting with Yukio, and I should probably tend to her wounds.
MATO: Girl? What girl? There was a fight?
YOMI: Oh that… I-It's kind of hard to explain…
MATO: What happened Yomi? Were you hurt?
YOMI: (Thinking hard for a second on how to explain it) Umm… well Shiemi… you see… the girl from before, is actually Mato here…
SHIEMI: (Blurting out) WHAT!? Oops! Sorry…
YOMI: Haha, it's okay! I know it's hard to take in… Well anyway, that girl is just a different form of Mato, and it's kind of hard to explain it… but let's just say… um… well that she's a different Mato so the Mato here right now doesn't really know what happened from before… I-I'll explain it better later.
SHIEMI: (Confused) Wow… I sure have learned a lot today… first Ciri… now this…
MATO: In other words, I have no idea what just happened! But… sometimes I can sort of dream it back… it's different now for some reason… and usually it's just in our minds… what happened Yomi? The last thing I remember was stepping through this… weird blue hole… and then…
YOMI: It's okay… I don't really know either, all I know is that we aren't even close to home right now and we have to get back. I don't know how to do it though… especially with the portal gone…
SHIEMI: I can help you two get back! Well… not me personally, but there's probably really smart people here who can help! Like Yukio! Or maybe not Yukio… Well… Rin and Yukio can get really hot-headed sometimes, so let's let them cool down first before we ask them for help.
MATO: (Stomach rumbling) Ohh… I just realized I still haven't eaten anything yet… your world has food too right Shiemi?
YOMI: Ah! Mato! Is that the only thing you can think of in such an important time!? Food!?
SHIEMI: (Giggling) Haha! It's fine! Oh I know! I can take you back to my home! It's a greenhouse, so don't be surprised when you get there, but I can make you a really tasty and healthy meal… well maybe less on the tasty part…
MATO: Wow a greenhouse! I don't think I've ever been to one! We don't even have one at our school.
SHIEMI: (Turning towards the door) Well, me and my mom kinda help run it for the True Cross, and we get to sell flowers and stuff from the shop. Come on, I'll take you there! You two must be exhausted!
SCENE: TWO
Rin and Yukio sitting silently in their dormitory room, both having calmed down from the shocking events earlier that morning. Rin sits on top of his bed, dialing Shiemi's phone number repeatedly but he is left with the same answering message again and again. Yukio is sitting at his desk with a medical kit by his side, patching up the wounds he had been inflicted just moments prior. The room is filled with a solemn stillness before Rin breaks the silence.
RIN: (With an annoyed look on his face) Ugh… Shiemi damn it… why aren't you answering?
YUKIO: You should've just gone after her.
RIN: I just thought that I would give her the chance to do something herself… instead of always being over-protective of her… but now I'm worried… damn it!
YUKIO: (With a calm demeanor) There's no use thinking about it now, I'm sure she's fine. Let's worry about the other two first.
RIN: You mean Yomi and the other girl?
YUKIO: You say it like they're not a threat. Haven't you learned by now that things aren't so simple!?
RIN: I just thought you were being too hard on Yomi. I mean seriously, you looked like you were about to kill her right there.
YUKIO: And you didn't do anything but joke around the entire time. She might look innocent and lost, but looks are deceiving. The same for that other girl…
RIN: I dunno…
YUKIO: What?
RIN: (Slowly speaking) I mean… think about it this way… I know it's not that simple, but if you just look at the situation from their side, the whole "other world" thing… I just kinda feel bad for them. It's like how we were lost after Father Fujimoto died.
YUKIO: (Caught off guard and speechless) …
RIN: It's true you know, I understand how you might be cautious in a situation like this. But those two girls are good people, I don't think they mean any real harm to us. It's just a gut feeling…
YUKIO: (Shaking his head) So you mean to say this is all an unfortunate circumstance, and that we should just ignore that we got attacked twice already today?
RIN: I didn't say it like that-
YUKIO: (Interrupting him) Don't you realize that you do this every time? Let down your guard, and then when something terrible happens, you forget everything and rush in head first!? Haven't you learned anything by now?
RIN: Hey! I was trying to-
YUKIO: This is exactly what happens every time. You take things too carefree until it's too late. Then it's the people around you that get hurt. Don't let your success from the Impure King get to your head!
RIN: (Shouting) Enough! I'm just trying to say that Yomi and the other girl might not be as bad as you think they are!
YUKIO: What about Igniculus!? Is he a "good guy" too!? Do you feel bad for him as well!?
RIN: (Suddenly quiet) Well… I… what he's doing is wrong… attacking us like that. But I can see… some kind of good intention in him too. I-I… I don't know, I just don't like taking everything at face value…
YUKIO: (Shaking his head slowly) Which is exactly what you're doing now. *sigh* Forget it. Anyway, we should go and find Shiemi, and make sure she's okay.
RIN: Right. But where could she have gone?
YUKIO: Exactly.
RIN: Exactly what?
YUKIO: Think about it. Where "could" she have gone? Where does Shiemi even go outside of cram school?
RIN: (Scratching his head) Oh yeah… she's probably back at the greenhouse right?
YUKIO: (Getting his supplies together) Let's go.
SCENE: THREE
Rin and Yukio both shield their eyes from the sun as they step out through the front door of the dormitory. This was the first time today that they had stepped outside of their living quarters, and both have an uneasy feeling as they walk towards the front gate. Before they reach the gate though, a dark figure suddenly jumps behind them. As they quickly turn around, they see a tall woman, with long dark red hair, wearing a dark unzipped jacket and black shorts. Her presence seems to be a threat, as she has long red horns protruding from the top of her head, giant metal claws, very sharp steel boots, and most importantly, a large broad sword with a blade that resembles a chainsaw. She licks her lips as she moves forward in a menacing manner.
GOLD SAW: (Tilting her head) I'm looking for someone… two people in fact.
YUKIO: (Eyes wide in horror) What? Ugh, not again!
GOLD SAW: Maybe you've seen them?
RIN: Uh, yeah, they-
YUKIO: (Interrupting him) Rin, stand back!
RIN: Hey, didn't we just-
YUKIO: (Taking out his gun and aiming towards Gold Saw) I don't know who you are, but I've had enough of random strangers getting in my way!
GOLD SAW: I rather not cause any trouble… I'm just looking for some information.
YUKIO: (Frustrated) You're not getting anything out of me, so either run away or prepare for a fight!
GOLD SAW: (Holding her sword in stance and charging forward) Suit yourself.
Gold Saw charges towards Yukio and takes a large swing with her giant sword. Yukio barely manages to avoid it, and takes a few shots at Gold Saw but she deflects the bullets with her blade. Gold Saw is ready to charge again as she leaps forward towards Yukio. Rin tries to get to Yukio but Gold Saw is too fast for him to reach in time. Yukio tries to dodge again but stumbles backwards due to his previous injuries. He closes his eyes as he prepares for the fatal hit, but instead he hears the ringing from a clash of steel blades. Standing in front of Yukio blocking the hit with her own blade is Shura, ally of Yukio and mentor of Rin. She also has red hair, and is dressed in one of her usual lavish outfits.
SHURA: (Looking back at Yukio) Nya ha ha ha! What happened? Hee hee! Why'd you stumble back like that?
YUKIO: (In shock) W-What!?
SHURA: And what's with the closing your eyes before you die thing, wimpy four-eyes? You think that makes you look cool or something?
YUKIO: (Suddenly getting furious) Tch! This isn't the time for that! Why are you even here!? I could've handled it myself!
SHURA: (Getting serious and looking towards Gold Saw) Relax. I've been watching you two for a while now. Even the whole weird bandaged guy and the two girls from before.
GOLD SAW: Ah. So you know of their whereabouts?
RIN: Damn it! What's going on!? Am I the only one out of the loop here?
SHURA: You two go! I'll take her on! Go find Shiemi, I'll catch up to you two later!
RIN: What!? You want us to leave you here!? This is dangerous, we need to stick together!
SHURA: (Winking at Rin) Hey c'mon now, why are you worried about me for? Just go!
YUKIO: Shura is right, we have more important things on our hands right now.
RIN: W-What? But we can't just leave-
YUKIO: Shura is strong enough to stand on her own two feet. It's Shiemi who we have to worry about.
RIN: (Contemplating for a moment then running out the gate) Ah… F-Fine! I'll find Shiemi! I'll leave this lady to you Shura!
YUKIO: (Getting up and following Rin) Be careful Shura! She's strong!
SHURA: (Serious) I know. Don't underestimate me, I can handle myself. And also Rin! Be cautious with your flame!
GOLD SAW: (Taking a few steps out the gate and following the two boys) So it appears they know where-
SHURA: (Wagging her finger left and right) Uh Uh. Not so fast. You're staying right here. And you're giving me some answers or I'm going to hafta beat them outta you.
GOLD SAW: (In battle stance) Is that so?
SHURA: That's right, not one step out that gate.
GOLD SAW: (Lunging towards Shura) I will find them. Right after I'm finished with you!
SHURA: (Drawing her blade from her chest again) Devour the eight princesses, slay the serpent!
SCENE: FOUR
Rin and Yukio hurry out into the street, towards the direction of the True Cross Greenhouse where Shiemi and her mother lives. Rin, finally comprehending the severity of the situation at hand, understands that he must find Shiemi and confront the other two girls. Yukio follows Rin through the streets, and into the forest path that leads straight to the Greenhouse. He knows that the circumstances have gotten much more complicated, and that he may have had some fault in the matter. As the two hurry through the forest road in guilt and worry, they approach the final hill that leads straight towards the Greenhouse. However, just as they step foot out of the forest, a woman with light blue skin and covered in black suddenly appears before them. She holds two spiral-shaped daggers in her hands and twirls them in her hands as she walks forward. Yukio pulls out his pistol and is ready for yet another fight. Rin doesn't move as he realizes that she has no intent to kill them, but could still be a threat.
INCENSIA: I cannot let you proceed any further.
YUKIO: (Aggravated) Ugh, another one! I bet you're with the rest of them, Igniculus, that Yomi girl, the woman from before. Everyone who's gotten in our way since.
RIN: (Starting to sweat) Damn it, I shouldn't have let Shiemi go on her own!
INCENSIA: It's hopeless, Igniculus has already located the other heir, you will not reach them in time. I advise you to stay here, another step forward and I will have to take matters into my own hands.
YUKIO: Damn… what's going on here!? I don't understand any of this! What's this heir thing!? What do you want from us!?
RIN: (Slowly) I think… I think she wants that other girl from before… and me…
YUKIO: (Looking back at Rin) What?
RIN: Remember when we first got attacked by Igniculus? He said something about my flame… And in that fight with the other girl who took Yomi, she had a blue flame too coming from her left eye. I thought I was seeing things at first, I thought I was the only one who inherited the flame… But then I remembered Yomi went on about another world or something… and… ah! I don't know! It's getting complicated! All I know is that she has the same power that I do!
YUKIO: Rin! What're you trying to say!?
INCENSIA: He means that this doesn't concern you, only those that carry the power of the blue flame are involved. The rest can either live or perish, human or demon alike. As long as they don't get in our way.
RIN: Yukio, Shiemi probably took the two girls to the greenhouse, and if this woman is right, then Igniculus is going to be there as well! I need you to hold her off while I-
YUKIO: I know that, but…
RIN: But what!? Shiemi might get caught in the midst of it!
YUKIO: But judging from what she said, it's probably best if you and the other girl weren't in the same place at the same time.
RIN: Huh!? Are you outta your mind! Shiemi's life could be in danger here!
YUKIO: (Calmly) Rin. The circumstances are a bit different now. I think I am starting to understand what is going on here.
RIN: What are you talking about Yukio?
YUKIO: All I know is, if she's right, I can't let you go to the greenhouse alone. I need to make sure you have control over your power. I can't risk you going loose again! Especially when they are after your flame!
RIN: What? Are you crazy Yukio! I can control it! It's Shiemi that we have to worry about now!
YUKIO: (Speechless) …
INCENSIA: Enough of this. Demon.
RIN: Who? Me?
INCENSIA: Yes. It would be wise for you to listen to your brother. Interfering now will only cause more trouble for later. As long as you stay put, I won't have to hurt you.
RIN: (Ticked off) Tch! Hurt me!? I'm not staying here while Shiemi's life is at stake. I need to get to the greenhouse, with or without you Yukio!
INCENSIA: I can vouch for your friend, as long as she doesn't get in the way, Igniculus won't hurt her. He only wants the other heir.
RIN: T-That's not how Shiemi's gonna act though… she's going to try to save the other two girls on her own! Damn it, I don't have time for this Yukio, are you going to help or not!?
YUKIO: … Rin… Things are more complicated than you think right now- I can't let you go alone like that! Who knows what's going to happen up there!?
RIN: (Interrupting him) Forget about you, I'll finish this myself!
INCENSIA: Please. I am giving you one last warning. Heed my words, stop now while you still can.
YUKIO: (Trying to draw out time) Why aren't you attacking us like Igniculus? You could've already killed me and secured Rin for your plans. Why are you hesitating?
INCENSIA: Hesistating? You have me mistaken. My plan is not the same as Igniculus', it just happens that our paths align.
YUKIO: (Confused) What?
INCENSIA: I'm not here to kill you, or anyone else for that matter. In fact, my aim here is to save this world, from the evils of the blue flame. I've already seen the destruction that the blue flame can cause, the utter annihilation of worlds, and the innocents that inhabit these places. I am not about to let it all happen again. Especially not when the flame is in the hands of a simple boy.
RIN: (Stuttering) H-Hey! I-I've gained control of my flame! I'm not a threat anymore!
INCENSIA: You think you have mastered it, but it is only a matter of time until you are corrupted by it, it's power, it's might, and it's wrath. Believe me, it was a wretched feeling when I first found out that I possessed the blue flame. And like you, I didn't listen to anyone.
RIN: What? You have the flame as well? But how…?
INCENSIA: You are foolish to believe that the flame only exists in your lineage and your world. The flame transverses time and space. Its existence is present in a multitude of worlds. You just happen to have the fortune, or rather, misfortune of being one of the heirs of the flame.
RIN: I don't know what misfortune you're talking about! I've been told that this flame is a curse, and I still believe it is… but… after the Impure King incident… I believe… that I can use this flame to do good things! To help people!
INCENSIA: Fool! It will only be a matter of time until the flame corrupts you. And once its power overwhelms you, you will find yourself standing on top of countless piles of burning bodies and ashes, being the only survivor left that's immune to the flame. Then, you will finally realize the tragedy the flame can cause. But I will not let you realize it, I will not let that day happen, because then it will be too late. I will stop you before that happens. Now you have a choice, either stay here and wait… or –
RIN: (About to draw his sword) I know I can't convince you right this second! And I've had people doubt my control over the flame before… Konekomaru… Suguro… Shima… Shiemi… and even Yukio…
YUKIO: (Shocked) Ah! … Rin, this isn't the time-
RIN: (Drawing his sword) But I've proved them wrong before, and I'll prove you wrong now!
Just before Rin is able to fully unsheathe his blade, three boys run in between Rin and Incensia. Suguro, Shima, and Konekomaru all stand in between the two, with the arms stretched out as to prevent the two from fighting.
RIN: (Sheathing back his blade) W-What!? What are you guys doing here!?
YUKIO: Damn it! It's dangerous here! Go back now!
SUGURO: Can't have you doing this alone now can we? You guys always take on the burden by yourselves!
SHIMA: H-Hey! Mr. Okumura is right! I-It's dangerous!
SUGURO: Shima…
SHIMA: R-Right… nevermind…
RIN: H-How did you guys know?
KONEKOMARU: Well, we've been watching you two after you guys ran out of the old dormitory. We even saw Shura sensei fight that other woman.
SHIMA: Yeah, woo! What a catfight!
KONEKOMARU: *ahem* Anyway, after we caught up to you, we didn't really know what to do, so we waited by the bushes and listened.
SUGURO: And from what I've heard… it seems Shiemi is in trouble at the greenhouse!
RIN: T-That's right, I'll distract her and you guys go on-
SUGURO: (Interrupting him) We'll take it from here.
RIN: (Shocked) Wait… What?
SUGURO: (Confident) It's probably more dangerous up at the greenhouse right now. And besides, Shiemi needs you more than she needs us.
YUKIO: (Commandingly) No! It's too dangerous; she's much more powerful than you think! You won't stand a chance here! I forbid it! Go back now!
SUGURO: Trust me you two! I have a plan! Every second you're here arguing is another second that Shiemi is in danger! Now go! Leave it to us!
RIN: (Hesitating) … Damn…
KONEKOMARU: Bon's right. Leave it to us! We can handle it!
SHIMA: Y-Yeah… maybe we'll try to smooth-talk her or something… or plan B… run like hell…
RIN: (Starting to run towards the greenhouse) A-Alright! Fine! I'll leave it to you three!
YUKIO: (Chasing after Rin!) Damn it Rin! Don't be so hasty!
INCENSIA: (Throwing a kunai at Rin) You fool! I will not let the blue flame destroy yet another world! Especially in the hands of a demon!
SUGURO: (Summoning a magic circle and blocking the kunai from hitting Rin) Not so fast there! You're dealing with us now! And we're stronger than we look!
SCENE: FIVE
Shura and Black Gold Saw are still fighting in the front yard of the old dormitory. Although now, they are exhausted from their fight, and neither can swing their sword without having to drag it off the floor. At the same time, both are still filled with determination, knowing that others are relying on them. Seeing Shura kneeling on the floor and gasping for breaths, Black Gold Saw jumps in for one final swing of the blade, but crashes halfway from fatigue. Both lie on the floor now, gasping for air, neither being able to move.
SHURA: (Deeply breathing) *huff* *huff* Why do you persist!? Damn it… I can't breathe…
GOLD SAW: (Stumbling on her words) I-I… I… I have t-to find…
SHURA: W-What!? *pant* I can't hear you…
GOLD SAW: (Weakly) I-I said… I have to find them…
SHURA: Who? *pant* Who is it that's so… *pant* damn *pant* important?
GOLD SAW: (Struggling to crawl up to her feet) The t-two… girls that fell into your world.
SHURA: Huh? A-Am I missing something here?
GOLD SAW: (Stumbling onto the floor and in a flash of light, transforming back into Saya Irino) Ah…
SHURA: (Shocked) H-Hey! W-What the hell!?
SAYA: (Feebly trying to get up but falls back down) O-Ow… I can't move…
SHURA: (Trying to help Saya up) Hey! Are you alright? Jeez… what happened? What did I get myself into this time?
SAYA: (Grabbing onto Shura's hands and pleading) Please! You have to help me find them! I beg of you!
SHURA: Whoa Whoa! What's going on? Relax. Tell me what happened? Where did the woman I was fighting go?
SAYA: T-That was me…
SHURA: (Slowly helping Saya up) W-What? Okay… this is crazy… Where did you even come from? Who are you?
SAYA: I'm Saya Irino… I think… that this is another world… as in I came from a different world than yours.
SHURA: Like Gehenna?
SAYA: W-What?
SHURA: N-Nevermind… You seem human enough… kinda… not really… at least you're calm enough now to actually strike a conversation with…
SAYA: Anyway… two girls came from our world into this one before me. Their names are Yomi Takanashi and Mato Kuroi.
SHURA: Okaaaay then… their names seem normal enough… everything else not so much… how did you know anyway? That they came into this world or whatever.
SAYA: I saw them… one being kidnapped… and the other, she jumped in after her.
SHURA: Damn, this is too crazy for my tastes.
SAYA: I can tell…
SHURA: Huh? Tell what?
SAYA: That you're a teacher of some kind, at least someone who works for a school, and watches over kids.
SHURA: Huh? How did you know?
SAYA: Well for one… you're much older than the other students here…
SHURA: Hey now! I'm eighteen years old you know!
SAYA: R-Right… secondly… you really cared for those two boys from before.
SHURA: Rin and Yukio?
SAYA: You were willing to sacrifice yourself for them, not even knowing my strength of what I am capable of, and yet you still carried their burden.
SHURA: (Embarrassed) H-Hey… It's not like that… I was just making up for a promise to someone…
SAYA: That's why… I need you to help me find Yomi and Mato!
SHURA: Ugh… The situation is already complicated as it is! I can't let another person get involved! If you are truly from another world, there's some things here in this world that are probably really dangerous to you!
SAYA: (Grabbing Shura's arms) Please! I beg of you! I know that these girls probably feel lost and hopeless right now! And they've been through so much pain and torment already. That's why I jumped in here with them; I knew they would have a hard them getting out themselves. I needed to find them and get out.
SHURA: Damn it, you shouldn't have done something so irrational! Now all three of you are stuck here! And I don't even know how to get you back to your world… if it even exists… you might just be some crazy lunatic-
SAYA: Please! Just help me find them! After that, I'll find a way to get us back, whatever it takes! You just have to find these girls first, especially Mato! Because if something happens to her!
SHURA: What?
SAYA: If she gets push to the brink of her consciousness… something terrible will happen!
SHURA: (Thinking for a moment then giving in) Ugh… ah… damn it! Fine! I know where they probably are, follow me!
SAYA: T-Thanks! You have my gratitude!
SHURA: D-Don't thank me yet! C'mon let's go, can you move?
SAYA: Y-Yeah, I'm tired but I can still run.
SHURA: Good, we better hurry. Because I know someone else who might go crazy once pushed to the brink.
SCENE: SIX
Suguro, Shima, and Konekomaru all stand in front of Incensia's way. They are shaking in sweat, knowing that they are no match for her. However, Suguro, who's standing in the middle, stays adamant and full of determination. He has been in such hopeless situations before many a times, and has met them on head first each time. Shima on the other hand is fidgeting rapidly, scared out of his mind. He would've already ran away if not for Suguro and Konekomaru beside him, who he knows he cannot abandon. Konekomaru stands nervously, but tries to put on a straight face, he knows that this is no time for panicking and that he must buy Rin and Yukio as much time as he can. Incensia stares at them for a little bit, then starts taking a few steps forward.
INCENSIA: You fools. You should have known better than to get in my way.
SUGURO: (Shaking) I-I couldn't let you mess with Okumura! Especially not when one of our friend's lives are in danger.
INCENSIA: You know as well as I do what that boy, or should I say, demon… is capable of.
SUGURO: Ugh… Listen! He's not like that anymore! Okumura is-
KONEKOMARU: (Interrupting him) Rin is different! You're not the first person to discriminate against Rin's demon side! We've done it before too!
SUGURO: Koneko…
KONEKOMARU: (Determined) Let me finish what I'm saying Bon! We know that Rin is still dangerous, in fact he's even on hold for a death sentence!
SHIMA: (Sratching his head) Hey… you didn't have to tell her that much…
KONEKOMARU: But you have to look at Rin's human side too! That's the part we couldn't see at first… but then…
SUGURO: (Speechless) …
KONEKOMARU: Then we realized we were wrong… and that Rin's actually a good guy!
SHIMA: (Blurting out) A great guy! Heh heh… oops…
KONEKOMARU: So just give him a chance! I don't know what you want with him, but I'm sure once you get to know him, you'll consider things differently.
SUGURO: That's right! And we need to make sure Moriyama is safe too! So please! Let Okumura and us go!
INCENSIA: You see… I am different from Igniculus… While we share a similar outlook on the power of the flame, I rather not hurt anyone to secure it.
SUGURO: What?
INCENSIA: I am saying that I would let the girl go.
SHIMA: That's great! So let's just get out of here and-
INCENSIA: But that is not up to me.
SHIMA: (Scratching his head) What? I don't get this at all.
INCENSIA: Me and Igniculus were both sent for one reason, and that was to secure the heirs of the blue flame. Our first encounters with the hosts were to make sure we identified the right ones.
SUGURO: And Okumura has the flame…
INCENSIA: Exactly, and now it is my mission to secure him before he can hurt anyone in this world. Your other friends are not my concern, but if they get in the way, much like what you are doing now, it will only complicate matters. So I will give you five seconds, at the end of which I will use force.
SUGURO: D-Damn it! I-I thought you said you didn't want to hurt anyone!
INCENSIA: (Walking forward slowly) One.
KONEKOMARU: What are you going to do with Rin! He's innocent!
INCENSIA: Two.
SHIMA: (Pulling his own hair) Oh nooooo! We're done for! We're finished! Waaaaaah!
INCENSIA: Three.
SUGURO: (Pleading) Please! Just listen to us!
INCENSIA: Four.
KONEKOMARU: Just don't hurt Rin! I'm begging you!
INCENSIA: Five.
SHIMA: (In total panic) AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!
INCENSIA: Time's up.
Incensia leaps up and throws a couple of daggers into the air, she then chants something, and the daggers all go flying towards the boys in a flash of blue light. Suguro chants a quick sutra line and manages to form a barrier to deflect some of the daggers. Konekomaru helps Suguro by chanting a back-up sutra behind him to increase the strength of the barrier. Shima is frozen still, and shaking in disbelief. Incensia lands, then flips back and chucks some throwing stars which curve to the side. Suguro and Konekomaru quickly change the pitch of their sutra to maneuver the barrier to their sides. Just as the last throwing star hits the barrier, it breaks and Incensia dashes forward at them. The boys all close their eyes in fear, waiting for the fatal blow. They wait and wait, but for a while they could only hear silence. When they open their eyes, they see Incensia standing still with her eyes closed, and focusing on something.
INCENSIA: (Opening her eyes) It appears I have run out of time.
SUGURO: (Still dazed by what happened) W-What?
INCENSIA: (Putting her weapons away) I have failed in securing one of the two heirs of the blue flame, Rin Okumura. Now we must wait. For the One to make his judgement.
SCENE: SEVEN
Mato and Yomi are sitting quietly in the living room of the greenhouse where Shiemi and her mother lives and manage. The tables, chairs, and walls of the house are all made of a nicely furnished wood, and is matched by all sorts of decorations and accessories around the house. There is also a pleasant aroma that fills the house, originating from the different assortments of plants outside in the garden. Shiemi emerges from the kitchen with a warm smile on her face and carrying a tray with three cups of tea on it. She sets the cups on the living room table and takes a seat across from Mato and Yomi.
SHIEMI: (Taking the cup in her hands) Here! Drink it while it's still warm. Careful though, don't burn your tongue!
MATO: (Quickly taking her cup and drinking it) Awesome! *gulp* *gulp* Wow, this is great!
YOMI: (Taking the cup in her hands slowly) Mato! You should thank her first! Thanks Shiemi, I really appreciate it.
SHIEMI: Haha! Your welcome! You don't have to be shy! Anyway, it's a special blend that my mother taught me, it's supposed to sooth your senses.
MATO: I feel it working already!
YOMI: Um, Shiemi, are you sure it's okay for us to be here? I mean, I don't want to trouble your family…
SHIEMI: Oh no, it's totally cool with me. And my mother is out right now too, so it's fine. Besides, she doesn't mind any guests.
YOMI: Oh, you're too kind. But I meant how people are probably looking for us right now, and I don't want to trouble you by having everyone searching here. Plus, we are kind of dangerous ourselves too…
MATO: Yeah, I don't want you to get any more involved than you already are Shiemi, it's going to get really dangerous soon. You need to keep away from us.
SHIEMI: (Reassuring them) Oh it's okay you two! I can handle myself. I've been in dangerous situations like this with Rin and Yuki all the time.
MATO: But we don't want you to get hurt. There are a lot of things that you don't know about us…
SHIEMI: (Looking down) Am I… Do you think of me as a burden?
MATO: No no no! It's not that at all! In fact, you've been a huge help so far! It's just… I don't want to drag you into our mess…
YOMI: (Looking sad) Mato and I have been through a lot, with another group of girls too… It's been really complicated…
SHIEMI: W-What happened? Don't worry, you can tell me! I want to help!
YOMI: Well… to continue on our explanation from before… a while ago… in our world, Mato, me, and three other girls got ourselves into a really messed up place…
MATO: Yeah…
SHIEMI: (Putting down her tea) You guys don't have to worry about me! I've seen a lot of weird things here too! It can't be stranger than the stuff that goes on in True Cross!
YOMI: Well, to put it as simply as possible… basically our sadness and grief from school and real life manifested itself into another… another… "self"
SHIEMI: (Confused) Huh? M-Maybe… it is a little stranger that I thought…
MATO: Well, just think of it as us transforming into someone else… someone stronger… but a little more wild.
YOMI: Yeah, remember how Mato was a different person before, well that's exactly what happens.
SHIEMI: Right! I know!
MATO: Huh? You know?
SHIEMI: Yeah, I've seen Rin transform too, and he turned really strong but he couldn't control himself…
MATO: Yeah, exactly! Well, when we transformed though… it was only in our heads. For a while, we would just fight and fight and it would all be culminating from our stress in the real world. As time passed, things got worse and worse…
SHIEMI: (With a look of worry) What happened then?
YOMI: Well… Mato couldn't control it anymore… and an even worse, tougher, and more vile version of Mato appeared.
SHIEMI: (Horrified) Oh no! What happened then?
MATO: Well… it started destroying everything… and almost killed the other girl's other "selfs"… eventually we beat it… but it took a lot of effort.
SHIEMI: H-How did you beat it?
MATO: (Thinking hard) Um… it's kinda hard to explain… but another version of me appeared… I guess one that's more good, and it, or rather I, managed to seal it away. B-But… it's still a threat to this day, and if I'm not careful… it can reappear…
YOMI: We've been doing better ever since and we haven't had any incidents. Yet… Until the lady in black came and took us from our world. I fear that she might be part of what happened! Or maybe she'll trigger another catastrophe like that! She kept saying that she wanted Mato to show her true power!
MATO: Which is exactly why you need to stay away from us Shiemi!
SHIEMI: W-Wait! So, that girl from before… with the long blue hair and the blue flame in her eyes… it really was you!
MATO: Yeah… that was me… or the other "me." But I don't understand why we are able to transform in your world… how are we able to take a physical form…? Why isn't it all in our heads?
YOMI: Well that part doesn't really matter right now… all we know is that we need to be careful you don't go out of control again… at least until we find a way back!
MATO: Y-Yeah…
SHIEMI: Well, whatever happens, I've got a plan to bring you back!
YOMI: (Surprised) Huh, really? W-What kind of plan?
SHIEMI: (Smiling triumphantly) Well… We wait here until that woman Ciri shows up, and she promised me she'll help take you back to your world!
MATO: Huh? What woman?
SHIEMI: Well, she helped rescue Yomi before you got here, and she told me she could like… uh… travel through worlds or something… anyway, we can wait for her here and stay away from Rin and Yuki, that way, you guys don't have to argue and fight again. Also, this place is calm and quiet, so you don't have to worry about transforming or anything like that here!
MATO: Um… that's great Shiemi… but I'm not sure about this Ciri woman… and we can't just sit here and wait. Someone could be looking for us.
YOMI: Exactly, there's also that woman who kidnapped me, she could be-
Suddenly, the front door is kicked open, and a tall hooded figure in black stands in from of the door. His bright blue eyes glare into the room, and he takes a few steps forward once he eyes Mato. The girls stumble back from the table in fear. Mato gets in front of Shiemi and Yomi, shielding them from the man.
IGNICULUS: At least, I have found you, heir of the blue flame. Strange, while the boy was a half demon, you appear to be fully human. How a mere human happen to possess the flame is odd.
MATO: (Frightened) Ah! Who are you? What do you want with us?
IGNICULUS: I am Igniculus, and I am here to secure your presence, heir. And unlike Incensia, I prefer to use force whenever necessary.
MATO: (Stumbling backwards) W-What?
IGNICULUS: When the One arrives, which will be any moment now, you will have a choice to make. Either join us, and help us restore the glory of the blue flame's power, or you can choose to die, and not hinder our progress.
YOMI: I don't know what you're talking about, but you're not getting Mato!
IGNICULUS: I don't have much time left, so I need to secure the target now. Let's just hope that Incensia has done her part with the boy as well. Now, Mato Kuroi, if you would follow me.
MATO: I'm not going anywhere!
IGNICULUS: (Taking out his long weapon from his back) Perhaps I should kill your friends for motivation, or should I just take you by force.
MATO: (Shouting) I'm not going to let you hurt anyone!
In a bright flash, Mato gets shrouded in a mysterious light, and she starts to change into Black Rock Shooter. Her hair grows longer, and her clothes change as well. Moments later, Black Rock Shooter now stands in Mato's place in the middle of the room, and draws her sword out to confront Igniculus.
IGNICULUS: Very well then. I guess you picked the second option. All the better, I get to see why you possess the flame with my very own eyes now.
YOMI: Oh no… It's happening again…
SHIEMI: Ah! I-I… I gotta do something to help… but what… w-what can I do?
IGNICULUS: (Getting ready to attack) Now in the final moments before the reckoning, show me your power, heir of the flame!
SHOOTER: (Silent) …
SCENE: EIGHT
Rin and Yukio run towards the greenhouse, leaving Incensia for Suguro, Shima, and Konekomaru to distract. They run as fast as they can, up the hill, hoping to reach Shiemi in time before she gets hurt. Knowing that they will most likely have to confront Igniculus again, they brace themselves for yet another battle.
RIN: (Running) Damn it! I hope Shiemi will be alright!
YUKIO: (Following Rin) The same for the three boys…
RIN: You could've stayed and helped them. Why didn't you!?
YUKIO: Someone has to keep an eye on you. Who knows what's going to happen up there? You've heard Incensia, their plan is to utilize your flame for their own purposes.
RIN: Tch… I can take care of myself… damn it… too many people are risking their lives for me… Shiemi… Shura… Suguro…
YUKIO: I'm glad you finally realize it. Anyway, it's fine, let's just get this over with. There's no use moping about it now.
RIN: You're right… Let's go-
A loud explosion at the greenhouse interrupts Rin, and a cloud of blue smoke erupts from the ceiling of the greenhouse.
RIN: (Running with all his might) Damn it! We're too late! Shiemi!