Author's Note:
I am back from the dead, I know that many of you probaly have stopped reading this story and I don't blame you. I did something that I never wanted to do, but I had a lot on my plate and the story took a back burner, so I am sorry. But here is the last chapter of this story. I do have plans on rewriting parts of it, adding in more detail and more stuff, but that will be a while before that gets done. I do have other sotories in the works as well, but will more than likley write the whole story before i post it so it does nto take me years to get it done like this one did. Let me know what you think of it, it is a little sloppy at the end I just wanted to get this doen and on here, but that will be one of the many things I will fix at a later date. Thank you all for reading my story, and giving me feedback it was very helpful, and I hope that you will read my otehr stories that I will have up here, whenever I get around to posting them that is. Thank you and happy reading...
-JediMadchen86
Alexisa walked to her room and over to the bag she had laying on a chair and dumped out the contents on the floor, old cloths daggers, and various other objects now cluttered the floor, as she sorted through the items she would need. She picked up the bag, and tossed it to the bed. She picked up the mirror and tucked it into one if the pockets on her pants. Once that was done she looked around the room to see if she left anything out. She walked over to the mirror and looked at herself, in the sort time that she had been in this world, she had aged a greater deal than she thought. Her hair had grown and now reached her lower back; her eyes remained the same just carried more reasonability than she had before. Walking back to the mess on the floor she grabbed a brush and brushed out her hair, wondering when that last time that she had brushed her hair. Was it last week or perhaps a week after that? She no longer knew how long it had been after she brushed it instead of putting it up in her usually bun she left her hair down for a change. As she stood in the mirror looking at herself and how she had changed within the short few months of her bring her, her thoughts began to wonder back home. Did they even know where she had disappeared to? She hoped that she had appeared in the book, and her brother was reading about her like Keisuke was doing with Miaka. Hearing a knock at her door bought her out of her thoughts.
"Come in," she called as she stood in front of the mirror still.
The door opened revealing Tasuki as he stopped in tracks looking at her, "I don't think I have ever seen you with your hair down," he replied.
"I don't have it down much, given what we are normally doing," she replied turning around to look at him. "What's up?"
"I just wanted to talk about tonight," he said as he closed the door behind him.
"Tasuki. We need Yui. Without her we won't be able to summon Suzaku," she replied tossing the hairbrush back into the pile that lay in the middle of the floor.
"I know that," he replied walking over and looking down at the pile, "What is all this stuff?" he asked as he bent down and picked through the stuff. "You might need this," he replied as he held up the daggers. What is the rest of this junk anyway?"
"Oh, thanks," she replied walking over to him and taking the daggers out of his hands and tucked them into the boots she was wearing, "Oh and that is just the other random stuff that I have picked up," she replied looking down at the pile. "So what about tonight? You know you can't talk me out of this. This has to get done in order to summon Suzaku," she replied as she walked back over to the mirror.
"I know, I just don't want you going back to Kuto," he replied standing up.
"Tasuki. I am going and there is nothing you can do," she replied looking at him by looking at the mirror. "Yui is the final piece that we need to do the summoning, and once she realizes that Nakago has been using her, she will come to her senses," she finished as she began to put up her hair.
"Alexisa, I know that we need Yui, I just don't know why Chichiri and I can't go, and then just bring her back here and then you can convince her," he replied as he walked over to he bed and sat down.
"If we take her by force, then they will more likely be a fight, and that needs to be avoided, so by taking the mirror there and exposing the truth she might leave willing and a fight can be avoided. Who is to say that Nakago won't put up that damn barrier again, and if he does then we won't have access to our powers," she replied as she finished putting up her hair in a messy bun, and turning around to face him.
"I just don't want you to go," he replied getting up from the bed and walking over to her. "You think that we are the only ones that need to be protected, but who will protect you?" he asked as stood in front of her. "I know that you will come back that it is your destiny and everything, but someone needs to protect you."
"The life of the Suzaku seven and their Priestess needs to be protected above all else, without them then the country of Konan will be thrown into chaos and countless people will die because of it," she replied looking up at him.
"What are you implying?" he asked meeting her gaze.
"Nothing, just that maybe I am not meant to survive this, after meeting Maki I had a small ounce of hope that I would be able to live, but hearing what she went through I realized that Guardians are meant to die for their Priestess, there is no other option for us. Meeting Maki opened my eyes."
"Opened your eyes to what? To giving up?" he asked as he rested his hands on either of her shoulders.
"No Tasuki, I am not giving up. Maki made a choice to be with the man she loved, to forsake the bond of friendship for love, then she was regretted by those who she protected, because she choose to live. For 200 years she has lived in regret, each day knowing that the man she loved with all her heart hated her. I would rather die for Miaka, then to have everyone hate me. I don't think I could handle that," she replied with tears forming in her eyes. "Tasuki, I have to do this, this is what I was called here to do. If I live then Miaka dies. It is as simple as that," she finished looking up at him.
"Alexisa, I know that you have given everything to protect all of us. This time why can't you let someone protect you?" he asked meeting her eyes. "Let me protect you," he said as he leaned down as their lips met.
The kiss ended with both of them in each other's arms, "Tasuki, I am sorry, that we did not meet under different circumstances," as she bought her hands in front of her and pushed away from him a little bit. "Anyway, I think we should meet Chichiri and get this over with," she said walking over to the pile and making sure she had everything she would need. Tasuki turned and watched her as she walked around the room.
"Alexisa, I…"
"Tasuki, I know, let's get this over with shall we," she replied as she walked out the door. As she walked she quietly talked to herself " I love you to," she said as she raised a hand to her cheek and brushed off a few tears that fell.
Tasuki watched her leave and looked around the empty room, "I love you," he said to the empty room before he walked out the door himself.
Alexisa walked to the throne room where they would depart, she wanted to tell Tasuki her feelings but with this mission she knew that they both needed their minds on getting Yui, and not each other. As she walked she looked up at the sky to see it filled with stars, "So much for having a normal life," she said quietly to herself as she turned down the hall that led to the throne room. Once there she opened the doors to see the Suzaku warriors besides Tasuki gathered before her, Chichiri and Chiriko were talking in quiet tones to each other and everyone else was just standing around waiting.
"So were you able to come up with a plan?" she asked as she made her way towards them.
"I believe so, with Tamahome's knowledge of the palace, we managed to narrow down the location of Yui's room," replied Chiriko rolling up a small piece of paper, and putting it into her outstretched hand, and tucking it into a pocket.
"What about a way to get in?" asked Tasuki as he made his presence known from behind her, and walking but to the group.
"Since we are unsure if Nakago will have a barrier up like before, we were unable to find a safe way in," he supplied again looking up at them.
"So I guess we are sneaking in," she replied taking in a deep breath and letting it out as she looked around at her friends.
"Alexisa, I really think I should come with you. I know the layout and will be an asset to you," said Tamahome as he walked closer to her.
"Tamahome, I understand why you want to come, but with the three of us it will be hard enough to sneak around if we add another body there is more chance that we will be found out," she said as she looked at him. "Miaka will need you here."
Tamahome looked over his shoulders to Miaka; she had her arms crossed across her chest. "Alexisa, I want Yui back, but if it means that one of you will get hurt just come back without her. Ok?" she said as she walked up to her.
"Miaka, I will bring Yui back no matter what," Alexisa said as she hugged her friend.
"I wish you all luck," said Hotohori.
"We should be back by daybreak," said Alexisa as she walked over to where Chichiri had laid out his kasa, and stepped on it.
"Why do we have to use this thing?" asked Tasuki as he too walked over to where it was laid out, and stepping onto it.
"This will get us there faster, you know," said Chichiri as he also stepped on it and all three began to disappear into the cloth.
Their landing was better than last tie mainly because they appeared in what looked like an ally. "Chichiri, why did you bring us out this far?" asked Tasuki looking over at him.
"Tasuki, I am the one that bought us here, I did not know if Nakago had a barrier up around the palace again, so I thought it would be wiser and safer to appear somewhere in the city and just sneak in," she replied slowly walking to the end of the alley to see if anyone had noticed their arrival. "We should also look for cloaks or something, so we don't stick out to much, and it might be better if we all walk alone. The less we draw attention to ourselves the better," she replied
"How bout these, you know," said Chichiri pulling out three brown cloaks. "I thought that we might need them so I borrowed some from Nuriko, you know."
"Good thinking Chichiri," said Alexisa as she grabbed a cloak and pulled it around herself.
"Don't see why I need one. I can just run up there, no one will ever see me," said Tasuki as he crossed his arms in front of his chest.
"We already said that we don't know if Nakago has that barrier up, I don't about you but I would prefer to avoid him," stated Alexisa as she tossed him a cloak and walked to the end of the alley. She peeked around the corner to see very few people out walking; she waved her hand and walked out into the street. As she walked she kept her eyes on the ground she did not want to see what was happening around her, she had heard stories from the other warriors of how the Kuto Emperor treated some of his people. She walked through the city heading towards the palace; she soon saw the walls around the palace, and she ducked into another alley, waiting for Chichiri and Tasuki to catch up. As she waited she pulled out the map that Chiriko had made for them, she tried to find out which side of the palace they were on, so she could figure out their path inside.
"What is the plan now?" asked Tasuki as he came into the ally and stood next to her.
"Not sure, trying to figure out where we are," she said as she continued to study the map.
"Why can't Chichiri transform and walk around the palace to get a sense," voiced Tasuki as he glanced down the street in search of his friend.
"That would be a good idea," she replied rolling up the map and tucking back into her pocket.
"What would be you know," said Chichiri as he walked into the alley to join his friends.
"Chichiri can you transform into a guard and see what it is like in the palace? Try to find out where we are and try to find Yui's room," said Alexisa
A puff of smoke appeared around Chichiri and once the smoke cleared he looked like any other Kuto solider.
"If you are not back within 10 minutes we are coming in," she told him before he walked out of the ally and towards the palace.
"Why 10 minutes?" asked Tasuki
"I don't want to be here all night, and he knows that if he is not back we are coming in," she said looking up at him.
"Alexisa, bout before…" he started
"Tasuki. It can't be voiced, because once it is, then our minds will not be here, and this is what needs to happen. With Yui's help Suzaku can be summoned and Konan will be saved, without Yui all of what we have been through will have been in vain. I am sorry, but we can't," she replied with tears forming in her eyes.
"Alexisa," stared Tasuki as he made his way towards her.
"Tasuki, stop, this is what I meant. We have to deny what our hearts tell us to do," she said looking up at him. "We have to summon Suzaku, and we can't think of anything else till then," she finished wiping away her tears. "Anyway I think the 10 minutes are up, let's go. Something might have happened to Chichiri," she said as she pulled the cloak back over her shoulders and walked out in to the ally with Tasuki behind her.
"What is the plan?" he asked as they walked
"We will just have to wing it," she replied back as they came up in the wall. "Over here," she said pointing to a side area that had tree coverage. "How good are you at jumping walls?" she asked as she threw the cloak onto the ground.
"Uhh... pretty good I guess."
"Good, follow me then," she replied as she climb a nearby tree and jumped over the wall, landing pretty softly on the opposite side. "Ok, your turn," he heard her say.
Tasuki crouched low and jumped over the wall landing next to her.
"Pretty good?"
"I was a bandit remember?"
"How could I forgot Genrou," she said smiling as she stood up and walked to the tree line, Tasuki following behind her.
"You have a plan?" he whispered in her ear.
"No, not really," she whispered back without taking her eyes away from the palace. "We need to find out what happened to Chichiri," she whispered taking out the map once more trying to find where they were in relation. "Damn it, I have no clue where we are," she said frustrated and she pocketed the map once more. "We are just going to have to wing it," she whispered as she quietly walked out from the trees, she could feel Tasuki behind her. She was happy to see that this palace and Konan looked the same from the outside at least, there were many covered walkways, some leading further into the palace, at least she hoped. With Tasuki behind her, and under the cover of darkness they managed to sneak across the open ground to hide below a railing.
"What now?" Tasuki mouthed to her.
Alexisa bought up her hands on either side of her body, indicating that she did not know. She was about to poke her head up when she heard footsteps; she lowered her head and pushed herself against the wood, reaching down to grab her dagger that lay hidden in her boot.
"Why are you hiding there?" asked a voice
Alexisa froze and looked up to see a Kuto solider looking down at here. "Shit," she said reaching for a dagger. "I thought I had 10 minutes you know," said the solider turning back into Chichiri.
"Chichiri, don't do that. You scared the crap outta me," hissing Alexisa as she stood up her dagger still in her hand.
"Your 10 minutes were up five minutes ago. Did you find out anything?" asked Tasuki standing up.
"I did find Yui's room, it is down the hall and to the right. But we need to be careful, there seems to be a lot of guards walking around, you know," he replied
"What about the shinzaho?" asked Alexisa
"I heard some guards saying that it was in Nakago's room, you know."
"Good news, let's go," said Alexisa putting the dagger back in her boot and climbing up and standing next to Chichiri, with Tasuki doing the same thing. "Chichiri, walk ahead of us, to keep an eye out for any patrols."
"Let's go folks," she replied as Chichiri walked off down the hall while Alexisa and Tasuki followed behind. As they snuck through the halls, a few patrols passed them but they hid in the shadows as they passed, it took longer than expected to reach Yui's room but eventually they stood outside of the door. Alexisa pressed her ear to the door, hoping that Yui would be alone in the room, slowly reaching for the handle Alexisa turned the handle and opened the door, and she and Tasuki walked in, leaving Chichiri to patrol the halls as a Kuto soldier.
"Who are you?" asked a young girl about Miaka's age, with short blonde hair and blue eyes, wearing a white button-up shirt with black pants.
"Are you Yui?" asked Alexisa looking at the girl.
"Yes, but who are you?" asked the girl again backing up from them.
"Yui, my name is Aleixsa. I need you to come with us," replied Aleixsa walking closer to her.
"Who are you? What do you want with me?" asked Yui again her voice becoming louder.
"Yui, please be quiet. We aren't here to harm you," said Alexisa as she walked closer to the girl.
"We aren't getting anywhere with this, let's just take her and explain later," said Tasuki as he to advanced towards Yui.
"Tasuki stop," said Aleixsa looking over at him.
"We can't explain anything to her if we get caught can we?" he asked
"No, but we are not going to take her by force. Yui listen to me you were never raped, Nakago has been using you," said Aleixsa looking at the girl. "If you don't believe me then look at this. This mirror will show you anything that you want," replied Aleixsa holding out the mirror for Yui to take.
"What do I have to do?" she asked looking at Alexisa.
"Show us what happened when Yui first came here," replied Alexisa as she looked down at the mirror. She watched the scene unfold, how Nakago rescued Yui right before she was raped, and how in the weeks that followed how Nakago had twisted her mind.
"Why?" asked Yui as tears formed in her eyes.
"He needed you to believe that Miaka left you so you would become the Priestess of Seiryu," said Alexisa looking at the girl.
"She was right. Every time we saw each other she tried to tell me but I would not listen. She must hate me," replied Yui bringing her hands up to her face.
"No Yui, she doesn't hate you. She knows how Nakago twisted your mind, to make you believe what ever he told you. All Miaka wants is her best friend back. I know a way to send you both home, but we need you and the shinzaho. Where is it?" asked Alexisa
"I have it here," she replied walking over to a chest of draws and pulling out the mirror.
"Thank god. I thought that Nakago had it," replied Aleixsa walking over to Yui.
"He did at first but then he bought it to me," replied Yui
"Lady Yui, are you alright? Is there someone else in there?" asked a voice on the other side of the door.
All three people inside the room exchanged looks with one another.
"Lady Yui. Is everything alright?" asked another voice.
Alexisa froze when she heard that voice, it was one that she never wanted to hear again. "Nakago," she whispered to herself. Hearing the name Tasuki's eye's widened.
"Lady Yui. I am coming in," replied Nakago turning the handle.
"Tasuki get out of here!" yelled Alexisa as she turned towards the door and threw her body against it. Hearing his name Tasuki snapped out of his trance and looked back and forth between Aleixsa and Yui. His gaze settled on Aleixsa. "Grab Yui, and RUN! I will follow you!" she yelled bracing against the doors that the soldiers outside were trying to get in. As he ran towards Yui, the doors were blown open, sending Aleixsa, Yui, and Tasuki around the room, followed by broken pieces of wood.
"Stupid Suzaku warriors," said Nakago as he walked into the room. "Get them," he called to the soldiers that stood behind him. Four solders walked into the room and grabbed the two warriors and bought them in front of Nakago.
"Nakago," said Alexisa as she looked up at him. Several pieces of wood had made cutes along her face and other parts of her body. A trail of blood ran down the right side of her face from a large cut above her eye.
"Well if it isn't the Guardian of Suzaku. I am surprised to see you again, after all the fun we had the last time you visited us," he said as he leaned down and looked at her, lifting her chin up to look her in the eyes.
"Keep your hands off her you bastard," yelled Tasuki as he tried to break free of the guards that were holding him.
"My my touchy aren't we? Has she told you the fun we shared?" asked Nakago as he ran his hand up the side of her face.
"I said don't touch her!" yelled Tasuki as he managed to free his arms from the guards, he ran towards Nakago only to be punched in the stomach and double over in pain.
"Tasuki," cried Alexisa as she tried to struggle to get her arms free.
"Nakago! What are you doing?" asked Yui as she stood up. "I want them alive," she stated as she walked towards them. "Take him to the dungeons, but leave her with me. I want to talk with her," she replied looking down at Alexisa.
"As you wish My Lady," said Nakago as he motioned for the guards to take Tasuki away, as the two that held Aleixsa released her, and she fell to the ground.
"Alexisa," said Tasuki as he was dragged to the room. "You better not touch her," he cried before he was dragged out of the room. As the guards left Yui stood over Alexisa looking down at her.
"Why are you here?" she asked as she knelt down in front of her.
"Yui. I found a way to send you home," Alexisa said as she began to stand up. "I know the things have happened between you and Miaka but she never wanted to become your enemy, but she had no choice. She did it to get both of you home."
"I want to go home," said Yui as more sobs racked through her body.
"We all do Yui," said Alexisa as she hugged the girl.
Chichiri saw Nakago walking towards Yui's room and immediately turned and followed the other guards; once he got there he could see Nakago banging on the door. He hoped that Tasuki, and Alexisa had taken off or things were going to get real bad real fast. Other guards came running, and once Nakago had blown in the door Chichiri made sure that he was the first one into the room. He saw Aleixsa covered with debris and bleeding from several wounds on her face and arms, Tasuki had shielded Yui from the blast and had small cuts up and down his back. He stood next to Tasuki and pulled up his friend glad to see that he was not the badly injured, and once Nakago had given the order he pulled his friend out the door leaving Alexisa alone with Yui.
"Get your hands off of me," said Tasuki as he continued to struggle with the guards.
"You really managed to make a mess this time you know," replied Chichiri as he knocked out the other guard and transformed back into himself.
"God, man you really have to stop doing that. Come on we need to get back to Aleixsa" replied Tasuki as he took off running back towards the room.
Tasuki ran back to the room with Chichiri following behind him, they ran into the room to see Alexisa and Yui hugging.
"Alexisa! Are you ok?" asked Tasuki as he walked to her side.
"Tasuki! How did you get free?" she asked releasing the hug and walking over to him.
"He had a little helping hand, you know," said Chichiri walking up beside both of them.
"We really should get going. Yui are you ready?" asked Alexisa as she looked at the blonde haired girl.
Yui took one look around the room; "I don't…" she left off looking back at Aleixsa.
"Yui, you have to believe us," said Aleixsa looking at her once more.
"We're leaving," said Tasuki as he grabbed Alexisa's hand and he dragged her towards the window.
"Yui, come on," replied Alexisa as she paused by the window, grabbing Yui's hand as she walked towards the window. "Let's get outta here Chichiri," she called as she watched Yui climb out the window and looked back to where Chichiri stood by the door. Alexisa climbed out the window followed closely by Chichiri.
"Well now what?" asked Tasuki as he looked around.
"Being sneaky is out the window, so book it before they send…"
The sounds of shouts of various Kuto guards interrupted her. "Never mind, just run," she finished as she took off towards the woods. As they ran they could hear more shouts, Alexisa looked back and saw a few torches being lit and groups of soldiers running into the woods. "Chichiri, can you teleport us?"
"Not while on the run, you know."
"How long do you need?"
"Just a few minutes, you know."
"Keep going and take Yui with you. I'll stay here and hold them off," she said as she slowed down and turned around.
"Not alone your not," said Tasuki as he stood next to her.
"Tasuki, Chichiri will need your help in case they attack him when he is trying to get us out of here. I can handle these guys," said Alexisa as she looked up at him. "We don't have much time now go!" shouted Aleixsa as she used Nuriko's strength and pushed him in the direction that Chichiri and Yui ran. "I will follow as soon as Chichiri calls for me."
"Alexisa. I am staying," he replied looking down at her.
"No. Tasuki. Go!" she shouted at him.
"No, I am staying," he replied.
"Fine, I will make sure to leave some for you," she replied leaping into the bushes.
"Sure thing," he replied with a smile on his face as he also jumped into the bushes.
The two warriors stood waiting for the fight that was sure to come.
"I think I heard something over here!" they heard someone call and heard footsteps following.
Tasuki and Alexisa waited until the group of six guards where almost past them and they jumped out of the bushes. "Hey boys, looking for us?" asked Alexisa before she ran towards them. Not suspecting an attack Aleixsa managed to knock two of the guards out within a few minutes, she turned to find that Tasuki had also been able to take down two guards quickly as well. They both turned to the last two guards when a dark figure walked out of the shadows.
"I figured you would return, but this is quite bold of you, Guardian," said Nakago as he walked into their sight.
Seeing Nakago sent more chills down Alexisa's spine, Tasuki looked between Alexisa and Nakago. "This time you fight me, blondie," said Tasuki as he slowly moved in front of Alexisa.
"Tasuki stop," replied Alexisa looking up at him "You going to put up another barrier? If you do I will just break that one as well."
"I think fighting you will be more fun without it," Nakago replied looking at her.
Tasuki looked over at Alexisa with concern in his eyes, but he saw that her eyes were closed, 'Tasuki be ready,' he heard her voice inside his mind. She opened her eyes and walked towards Nakago, keeping her gaze on the blonde general. Alexisa stopped a few feet away from Nakago and took up a fighting stance. As she stood there she could feel Tasuki's gaze on the back of her head, 'I just hope this works,' she thought to herself as she closed her eyes again deep in concentration.
"Praying for Suzaku to save you?" he asked as he raised his hands to his face.
"Something like that," she replied as she kept her eyes closed. As she stood there she could feel all the warriors powers within her, she drew on each one of those powers, opening her eyes to reveal that they were completely red. "Come at me when you are ready." Nakago ran towards her, raising his right hand to deliver a punch to her face, when she caught his fist before it made contact. She raised her left hand and punched him in the stomach forcing him to his knees; she raised her left knee and knocking him flat on his back. "Guess I forgot to mention the barrier that I placed on you," she replied looking down at him, before looking over at Tasuki.
"Time to go," she replied as she turned and started to run, with Tasuki on her heels.
"Alexisa what was that?"
"I had to do something to beat him," she replied in between breaths, as she slowed down.
"You ok?" asked Tasuki as he slowed down to match her pace.
"That took more out of me than I thought," she replied as her legs gave out and she began to fall towards to ground but only to land on Tasuki's back.
"I gotcha," said Tasuki as he placed his hands under her and stood up.
"Thanks, now let's go home," she said as she slowly fell asleep.
Tasuki looked back at her, he made sure she would not fall then ran towards where Chichiri should be. After a short run he found Chichiri standing with his kasa laid out over the ground.
"Tasuki. What was that power that I felt? What is wrong with Alexisa?" asked Chichiri when he saw Tasuki coming towards him.
"Later, let's just get out of here," replied Tasuki and he stepped onto the kasa followed by Chichiri.
A few hours after Tasuki, Chichiri and Alexisa left, the remaining Suzaku warriors did not venture far from the throne room, knowing that was where they would be appearing to when they returned. Hotohori had left meeting with a few advisors, but the others sat, waiting for their friends return from Kuto. As they waited Nuriko and Miaka began to chat when silence once again filled the room.
"Did anyone else feel that?" asked Nuriko as he looked around the room.
"I suddenly felt this blast of power," said Tamahome from where he sat along the wall.
"What could that mean?" asked Miaka standing up and looking at him.
"I hope they come back soon," said Nuriko as he stood up.
"Have they returned? I felt this surge of power," said Hotohori rushing back into the room.
"No, not yet," replied Tamahome as he stood and walked to where Miaka sat.
"Why aren't they back yet?" asked Miaka with concern in her voice.
"They still have a few hours until daybreak," said Chiriko as he looked out the door.
"I know, just…" started Miaka when she noticed a glowing spot in the center of the room. "Look!" she shouted pointing to the area as it began to grow. All the warriors turned their heads to where Miaka pointed to see three figures becoming visible.
"They made it!" cried Nuriko as he walked closer to Miaka.
Soon the warriors could see Chichiri, Tasuki with Aleixsa on his back, and a blonde girl wearing a button-up shirt and black pants. They all gathered around the group with many questions.
"Tasuki, What happened?" asked Tamahome as they stood in front of them.
"What happened to Alexisa?" asked Nuriko looking over at her.
"Don't worry she is just asleep, we ran into Nakago," said Tasuki looking around.
"Nakago? What happened?" asked Miaka.
"Guys, not to be mean, you know, but can we get some room, you know?" asked Chichiri as he looked around at his friends.
"Sorry Chichiri, we just were worried," said Nuriko as he took a step back from them.
"Miaka?" sounded a new voice in the group.
Hearing her name Miaka looked over at Yui who stood behind Chichiri. "YUI!" Miaka cried as she ran to her friend. "I am so glad that you are here," Miaka continued as she looked at her friend.
"Miaka, I'm sorry," began Yui as tears began to flow from her eyes. "I am sorry that I didn't believe you," cried Yui as she bought her hands up to her face.
"Yui," began Miaka as she walked slowly towards her. "Yui, I am sorry this was all my fault," said Miaka as she reached Yui and hugged her friend. Both girls wept and hugged each other, as the Suzaku warriors looked on.
"Well I am glad that you all have returned safely," said Hotohori looking down at Tasuki and Chichiri. "I would like a report as to what occurred in Kuto, but seeing how late it is, it can wait until morning. Miaka, show Lady Yui the room that we had prepared for her. We will meet for breakfast in the morning," replied Hotohori as her turned and left the room.
Tasuki readjusted Alexisa's weight on his back as he walked out of the room and down the hall. The rest of the warriors followed them as they walked back to their rooms. 'Who ever thought that I would fall for a girl,' he thought as a smile appeared on his face, as he came upon her room. He carefully opened the door and walked over to the bed, he carefully kneeled down and set her on the bed, grabbing her arms, he turned around and laid her on the bed. He gently removed the gaggers she had in her boots before he slipped those off of her feet as well. He grabbed a blanket from the bottom on the bed and draped it over her still form; he looked down at her once before turning and walking out into the hallway towards his room.
As morning broke over the palace of Konan, each warrior woke with a smile and pleasant thoughts on their minds. They had finally been able to come one step closer to summoning Suzaku. Miaka dressed in her usual school uniform walked over to Yui's room.
"Yui," called Miaka as she knocked on the door.
"Come in," she heard called from inside the room. Miaka reached the handle and turned the handle walking into the room and closing the door behind her.
"Good Morning Yui! I hope you had a good nights sleep," said Miaka as she walked further into the room.
"Hello Miaka, and thanks I did," replied Yui walking out from behind a screen wearing a light blue short-sleeved shirt, with brown pants, and a dark blue sash tied around her waist.
"Where did you get those?" asked Miaka once she saw her friend.
"Oh. Well I think that Nurnku, bought them by earlier," she replied raising a hand to her chin.
"It's Nuriko," said Miaka covering a laugh with her hands.
"Opps, I don't know if I will ever learn their names," replied Yui looking down at her hands.
"Yui, what's wrong?" asked Miaka walking over to her friend.
"After everything that I have put you through, how can you forgive me?" asked Yui as tears begun to fall from her eyes.
"Yui. How could I not? You are my best friend, and I was the one that dragged you into this. I am just glad that you are back," cried Miaka as she hugged Yui.
"Thanks Miaka," replied Yui as she dried her tears and looked up at her friend. "Why are you up so early? Normally it would take a freight train to wake you up before 10."
"Oh well, ever since coming here I have been able to get up pretty early," relied Miaka drying her eyes and looking at Yui. "You hungry, I heard that Hotohori had the cooks prepare a huge breakfast for all of us."
"It better be to feed you Miaka," said Yui laughing
"That is not funny Yui, I can't help if I like food!" cried Miaka as she looked at her friend with her hands on her hips. "Come on," continued Miaka as she pulled Yui out into the hallway and towards the dining hall. As the two girls approached the dining hall several voices could be heard.
"Miaka…"
"What is it Yui?" asked Miaka as she turned around and looked at her friend.
"I don't know if this is a good idea," said Yui as she looked towards the dining hall, where laugher could be heard.
"Why not? Don't worry about everyone. They will like you. I promise," replied Miaka once more as she pulled Yui to the door of the dining hall. As soon as the two girls came into view the laughter died down and all eyes were upon the two girls.
"Good Morning Miaka, and to you Lady Yui," said Hotohori opening his arms in a greeting. "I hope your stay here will be pleasant Lady Yui."
"Thank you, Your Highness," said Yui dipping her head down in respect.
"Now that we have all gathered, let's eat," he replied sitting down as servants bought out trays of food, and laid them in the table. As the warriors all took their seats, Yui remained standing.
"Yui. What's wrong?" asked Miaka when she saw her friend standing still.
Yui looked around to each of the warriors, her gaze fell on those she had meet before and then to the ones that she had yet to meet. "Suzaku Seven, and Guardian of Suzaku, I want to beg your forgiveness for what Nakago and the Seiryu Seven, but mainly for what I have done to you all. I was to stupid to see that I was being used, and I am the reason that you have had so much trouble and pain on your journey. I don't expect you to forgive me, but for what it is worth I am sorry," said Yui as she bowed her head to the seated warriors.
"Yui," began Alexisa getting up and walking over to her. "I don't think anyone here hates you, I have explained how Nakago used you, and no one here blames you at all," said Alexisa as she came closer to her.
"But you of all people…"
"Yui, out of all the people here, I think I can relate the most. What matters the most is that you are here; and with that stands you apart from the others," replied Alexisa as she stood in front of her.
"Can we eat?" asked Miaka looking down at the food.
"Can't believe that you actually asked," said Tamahome as he looked over at her, laughing.
"Tamahome, you are always so mean," said Miaka as she looked over at him with a scowl on her face, but getting laughter from all the other warriors. Each warrior took to their seat once more and began to enjoy the feast that had been prepared for them. Yui looked over all the warriors that she had caused so much pain to in the past now welcoming her like family. She saw an empty seat by Miaka; she walked over and sat in the chair then began to eat with her new friends.
"When can we summon Suzaku?" asked Miaka between full mouths of food.
"I already have the preparations underway," said Hotohori from the head of the table. "Everything should be complete by tomorrow. In the meantime my friends relax and enjoy the peacefulness," said Hotohori as looked around the room.
Upon hearing the news each of the warriors had a smile emerge on their face, all expect one. She knew that tomorrow her duty to the warriors and to Miaka would be filled. Alexisa looked around the table at each warriors smiling face, happy knowing that the long journey would finally be coming to an end tomorrow. All of the hardships they have endured, the tears, and the sadness would all be ending. She ate her meal, commenting on the conversations around her, but never saying more than a few words. The plates soon became empty and the conversations died away, as each warrior left and went about their business for the day. Alexisa was among the last to leave the dining hall, she walked out into the hallway, and wondered around the palace she soon found herself in one of the several pavilions that were scattered around the palace. As she sat looking at the sky, she thought back to her life before coming to the Universe of the Four Gods, she did not hate her life, she had wanted something more, and that is what she got. She had gained another family, brothers, sisters, and even someone who cared deeply for her. She knew what needed to be done tomorrow, but leaving this family was going to be harder than she thought it would be.
"Have you always looked at the sky this much?" asked Tasuki breaking her thoughts, as she looked behind her to see the flamed warrior.
"I have, helps me think, makes me feel at home," she replied looking back at the sky. "What will you do after Suzaku has been summoned?"
"Go back to Mt. Reikaku probably. Kouji can't stay leader forever," he replied walking over towards her, and sitting down next to her.
"Do you regret being called?"
"What do you mean?" she asked looking over at him.
"Ever since you came back from Taitsukun, when you found out why you were bought here. Have you regretted it?" he asked looking directly at her.
She met his eyes, turned her head looking at the ground and looked down at her lap. "At first I was mad, mad at you, mad at everyone, knowing that you all would live and I would have to die, but the anger turned into love. The more that I got to know each and every one of you, I realized how lucky I was."
"Lucky?" he asked
"For having the chance to know each and every one of you. Throughout this whole thing Miaka has been able to keep on moving forward, and she would not have been able to do that without each single one of you. I mean here we are about to summon Suzaku, she has her best friend back, and she has the man that she loves back with her, if my death means that she will be able to keep that happiness then I am happy to do this," she replied bringing her knees up to her chin.
"What about your happiness?" he asked as he turned to face her.
She turned her head and met his eyes once more. "Tasuki, I am happy. These past few months have been the happiest that I have been in a while. I know you don't want me to do this, but you don't know what will happen if I don't, I have seen what Guardians go through when the wrong choice is made. I have the power to save Miaka's life, I won't be able to handle the guilt," she replied lifting her head and looking over at him.
"Alexisa, I have tried to say this so many times over the past, but you have not let me? We all know this burden that you have been carrying, at least now let me in to help you. Let me in to help you live," he replied as he leaned his head against hers. "Alexisa, I love you," he said looking into her eyes.
Alexisa bought her hands up to cover her mouth, and tears began to fall from her eyes. "Tasuki, I love you too," she said softly as tears rushed down her face. "Tasuki, I am afraid of dying," she said as she more tears began to fall. Tasuki quickly bought his arms around her and hugged her tightly. Alexisa welcomed the embrace and curled up in his arms. Her crying slowly began to die, but she stayed in his arms. "I have been afraid for so long, but I could not show it. I needed to be strong, to keep my head clear. I knew that if I said anything then I might not have been able to protect any of you at all."
"I knew there was a soft shell under there somewhere," he replied looking down at her, smiling.
"Can't believe it took me years to build up that shell, and you cracked it in a few months," she replied laughing a little.
"Well guess we both surprised each other then."
"Tasuki, I want you to know something," she started as she turned and faced him, still sitting on the ground. "No matter what happens at the summoning tomorrow, know that I will always be with you," she said as she stood and looked down at him.
"Alexisa, you are not going to die," he replied as he to stood up, and putting his hands on her shoulders.
"Tasuki, we both know how this will end. Just promise me that you will never forget me," she replied looking at him once more.
"I promise, I will never forget you."
Alexisa hugged Tasuki once again, both wishing that they could freeze time to spend more time with each other. Alexisa broke the hug by stepping back.
"Tasuki, I have to go," she said once more as looked at him again before running off down the hall trying to stop the tears that were falling from her eyes. Tasuki watched her retreating form and then went on search of the one person he knew might be able to help. He soon found himself walking up to the shrine of Suzaku, where he could see several attendants running around getting everything ready for the ceremony. He saw Hotohori, and Chichiri off to one side quietly chatting; he made his way over to them.
"Hard to believe that this day is finally here huh?" he asked as he made his presence known to them.
"Yes, I know what you mean, after all this time we will have finally made it to this day," replied Hotohori looking around at the shrine.
"Hey, Chiri have you seen Miaka around? I want to talk to her," replied Tasuki looking over at his friend.
"No, but she should be here soon I have to go over the summoning prayer with her and Yui, you know," replied Chichiri
"Tasuki, Chichiri, Hotohori!" cried out Miaka as she ran up the stairs towards the shrine, with Yui following close behind.
"Hey Miaka, I want to talk to you," replied Tasuki as he walked over to meet her.
"What is it Tasuki?" asked Miaka
"I want you to use one of your wishes to save Alexisa," he replied looking down at her.
"Tasuki, I don't know if Suzaku can grant that wish," replied Miaka looking down at the ground. "And besides Alexisa told me you would ask me this, and she told me to tell you something."
"She did?" he asked, "What did she say?"
"She wanted me to tell you to please accept what she has, she knows how much you love her, and she is doing this because she loves you. She told me that she could not live knowing that I would die, with one death eight other people will live," Miaka replied looking up at him.
"Miaka, Yui, it is time for you to learn the prayer, you know," called Chichiri
"We're coming," shouted Miaka over to her friend "Tasuki I know it is hard but this is what needs to be done," said Miaka before she walked over to Chichiri, not looking back at Tasuki.
Tasuki stood there watching the backs of Miaka, Yui and Chichiri grow smaller in the distance. He did not want to admit to himself that there was nothing else that could be done, that Alexisa would die tomorrow and everyone else was going to stand by and allow that to happen, he hung his head, and turned around seeking out something to drown out his sorrows in. He soon found himself outside of the palace kitchens that for once were completely unoccupied due to the summoning that was taking place Hotohori had pulled every available person to help with the set-up. Tasuki searched the various cabinets and shelves until he found what he was looking for a bottle of sake. After searching for a little longer he soon found a few cups, grabbing one he made his way back to his room. After closing the door; and sitting down at the small table in the center of his room, he discarded the cup and began drinking sake right out of the bottle trying to drown out his sorrows. He was absorbed in his thoughts he did not even hear his door opening and did not even feel the presence of another warrior behind him.
"Back to your old ways huh?" asked a familiar voice
"Leave me alone Nuriko," he replied in between sips.
"You seem to forget that you are not the only one that cares for her you know," replied Nuriko ignoring the previous comment and sitting down next to Tasuki. "Miaka, and Tamahome are going through the same thing, but you don't see him drowning himself in sake do you?"
"Tama-home-boy is a pussy that's why. He rather sit in a dark corner and make everyone else feel sorry for him," replied Tasuki taking a rather large sip of sake.
"What do you call this then?" asked Nuriko looking over at his friend.
"Getting my life back, before all this started, the more I drink the less I will remember," he responded once more emptying the contents of the bottle into his mouth.
"You are telling me that you don't want to remember anything from the past few months? Not the bonds you have made; or the friends that you have forged? Tasuki look at me, No matter how angry you are you can't tell me that the past few months have been for nothing?" asked Nuriko leaning over the table taking the bottle out of Tasuki's hand.
Tasuki watched the bottle leave his hand and watched it as it was placed in front of him on the table. "Nuriko, the past few months… have been both the worst and best time of my life. I finally had been a part of something, even back with my boys I still felt that something was out of place, then Miaka came along and everything fit together. I was finally part of something bigger something that would matter in the end, but now that we are at the end, I am about to lose someone that I care for deeply, and I don't know how to deal," he replied looking up at his friend.
"No one really knows how to deal with the loss of someone special, we all are dreading tomorrow, yes Konan will finally be saved, and we can all go back to our normal lives, but after the last few months what is normal? None of us know what tomorrow will bring, besides the loss of two people that we have known to call family, but at the same time it gives us strength. As we continue with our lives, we see every day what they did for us. Miaka, and Alexisa both know that tomorrow will be their last day here with us, but do you see them sulking in a corner? They are continuing to be the pillars of strength that we have known them to be over the last few months. All of Konan will know what those two girls have done for this country and we will know as well. Every person in this kingdom will be proof of what they did for us," said Nuriko looking down at Tasuki. "But if you think this will help then here," he replied giving the bottle of sake back to him, and walking out of the room. "You are not the only one that will miss them Tasuki, we need to be strong for them," replied Nuriko before he left the room leaving Tasuki with his thoughts.
Alexisa returned to her room her thoughts not giving her any rest. She knew that tomorrow would be her last day here, but she also knew that she had to keep her head high for the sake of everyone else. They were all going to look at her for strength, and she needed to show that strength. She walked over to the bed and looked around the room, she had packed the little belongings that she had earlier, now the room looked like it had before she came. She lay down on the bed, crossing her arms under her head, remembering the past few months knowing that sleep would not come to her that night.
The next morning came to fast for the Suzaku Warriors, by mid morning they had all gathered near the shrine where the summoning would take place.
"Good morning," greeted Hotohori as he reached his fellow warriors.
"Good Morning, Your Highness," replied Nuriko bowing his head a little. "I can't believe that this day has finally come,"
"I know what you mean Nuriko, Konan will finally be saved," replied Hotohori with a smile on his face.
"Where is Alexisa, Miaka, and Yui, you know?" asked Chichiri looking around
"They are in the process of getting ready for the summoning," replied Hotohori "They should be done soon. We should all head for the shrine to prepare as well," said Hotohori as he walked towards the shrine with the fellow seven warriors following.
"Miaka, did you ever think this day would come?" asked Yui as they were being escorted back to their rooms.
"No, I didn't. I am glad that you are here with me though. I don't know what I would do if you were still my enemy."
"Miaka… do you know what you will wish for?" asked Yui
"Saving Konan will be my first wish, since I promised Hotohori."
"What about the other two?"
"I want to ask Suzaku the impossible, Yui, I don't know if my other wishes can be granted," replied Miaka becoming quieter, as they reached their rooms.
"Miaka, we need to have faith, or knows what Suzaku will do for you, he is the god of love after all right?" asked Yui trying to cheer her up.
"Right Yui," said Miaka walking into the room.
Miaka, and Yu walked into their rooms and began to get dressed in the traditional robes of the Priestesses. Miaka robes were red with lace sleeves and a lace skirt, tied closed with a golden sash. Her hair was pinned up with golden hairpins as well, she worn a red, and gold necklace, bracelets adorned wrists as well as her right ankle. Yui being the Priestess of Seiryu wore a blue dress with white sleeves, the dress faded into lighter blue towards her legs, she wore a silver sash and had silver jewelry and hairpins. (AN: Not sure if this is exactly correct, but you can look for a picture on the web as to what the robes looked like.) Once they were both dressed they made their way to the shrine of Suzaku.
"Yui, what ever happens I am glad that we are here together, I hated the thought of being your enemy," said Miaka before they turned the corner to the shrine.
"I know Miaka, I just wish that I would have realized I was being used earlier. I am sorry for what I put you through."
"I think we can all put the past behind us," said Aleixsa coming up from behind them, she wore a red kimono with a design of a golden phoenix, her hair was pinned back with a golden bow.
"Alexisa."
"I know they got me to wear a dress," said Alexisa looking down at herself
"Alexisa, I don't know if I can…" started Miaka
"Miaka, don't worry about that. Wish for your happiness, and for you Yui. I do not know you like I do Miaka, but I want both of you to wish for what you want. I know what needs to be done," said Alexisa "Now let's not keep everyone waiting anymore, we have a summoning to do," said Alexisa as she walked past the two girls towards the shrine.
As Alexisa approached the shrine she could see the warriors gathered around the entrance. They were all gathered in a circle talking amongst them selves, a smile appeared on her face. "Good Morning Everyone," she called out as she become within earshot of them. Upon hearing a new voice they turned and she received several greetings as well.
"Alexisa you look…" started Nuriko
"Yea yea Nuriko, I know what you are going to say but shall we get this summoning started, Miaka and Yui are on their way. We need to get into place,' she replied walking towards the shrine. Once they reached the shrine, they all took their places around the summoning fire, and waited till they saw Miaka and Yui at the door. Both Priestesses were holding one of the shinzahos, Miaka had the necklace, while Yui held the mirror in her hands, they walked in together towards the fire, and once there they took their places, so that Yui, Miaka, and Alexisa formed a triangle inside the circle of warriors.
"Now everyone bow your heads, and focus all your chi to Miaka and Yui," replied Alexisa as she to bowed her head as well.
"The four places of the heavens, the four corners of the earth, in the name of scared law, faith and virtue, we summon thee Suzaku and Seiryu Guardians of the South and East, We beseech you to appear on Earth, from the places of heaven. For the sake of those here that adore you and await your presence. Come to us and with your mighty power, destroy all that is evil, save us and grant us out wishes. Destined to us now from the heavens above," recited Miaka and Yui in unison, as the shinzahos began to glow, and light shot from them, rising into the sky. Once the light stopped emitting from the shinzahos, everyone in the room looked up to see the two gods before them.
"Never before have two gods been summoned, what is it you wish from us, you will only receive three wishes," said Suzaku in his human form
Miaka and Yui looked at each other then nodded. "I wish for ever lasting peace through out the Konan Empire," replied Miaka.
"I wish for the Universe of the Four Gods to be sealed," replied Yui
"What is your last wish?" asked Seiryu also in his human form.
Miaka and Alexisa looked up at each other. "Miaka you know what you need to do, just like I do, so make your last wish," replied Alexisa
"Suzaku I wish for the continued prosperity of this world," said Miaka looking back at Alexisa.
With the final wish granted Seiryu returned to the heavens in a blue light. Alexisa knowing what was going to be asked next looked up to Suzaku's face.
"Guardian you have filled your responsibility's and bought peace to one soul after 200 years. Even now I can tell in your heart that you would give your life to save Miaka, and her warriors, and not just out of sense of duty but also out of love. Do you now know why I picked you? Even before you heard of your destiny you would have given your life to save them. Guardian of Suzaku are you prepared?"
"Yes Suzaku, I know what I need to do," replied Alexisa walking closer to the God.
"Suzaku can we at least say your goodbye's?" asked Miaka as tears started to form in her eyes.
"Yes Priestess, I can allow you to."
Alexisa turned and started to walk towards Miaka, and as the two girls reached each other they both had tears in their eyes and the other warriors had gathered around them.
"I'm sorry Alexisa, I'm sorry that I did not wish for your life," replied Miaka through tears.
"You know that is one wish that Suzaku could not grant Miaka. I want to thank you for everything Miaka, the past few months have meant the world to me," replied Alexisa giving Miaka a hug and stepping back.
"Alexisa…"
Alexisa turned around and faced Tasuki. "Tasuki listen I…" she started to say but was cut off by his lips meeting hers. They deepened the kiss, wrapping her hands around his neck as his hands grabbed her waist and pulled her closer. "I love you," she said as they ended the kiss and rested their foreheads against each other. "I will always love you and I will never forget you Tasuki." As they locked lips the other warriors looked on with smiles on their faces. Miaka and Tamahome embraced each other as well knowing that everything was coming to an end. Alexisa said her goodbyes to the other warriors, and she walked towards Suzaku once more.
"Suzaku, I am ready," she replied walking towards the God, everyone watched Alexisa walk towards Suzaku with sadness in their eyes. Once she reached hi she turned towards them once final time.
"Thank you everyone, you gave me a sense of purpose, and I will miss you all," she said to everyone as she and Suzaku were engulfed into red light. Once Alexisa was gone, Miaka and Yui were also engulfed in red and blue light, Miaka tried to hold onto Tamahome but he soon vanished from her arms.
Tasuki, Tamahome, and the rest of the Suzaku seven watched hopeless as their Priestess and Guardian left them forever tears ran down their faces.
Alexisa woke in a red light, facing the human form of Suzaku.
"What am I doing here?"
"Never before has a Guardian loved her Priestess as much as you, you were willing to give your life to let her live, I have yet to decided your fate."
"Wait what? I thought I had to die for Miaka to live, I did not think that both of us could live?"
"There were other developments that I had not for seen, and now if you wish you would be able to return to Konan."
"What developments?"
"The love that Miaka and Tamahome shared was to strong for even us to keep them a part, he has joined her in her world, and it seems unfair to have my Priestess receive her wish and not my Guardian."
"My wish?"
"You wanted to remain with Tasuki."
"How can that be though?" asked Alexisa looking up at him.
"For once, just accept that you are returning to The Universe of the Four Gods, let the others know what has become of Tamahome," replied Suzaku as he began to vanish into red light.
"Wait I still don't understand!" called Alexisa to his vanishing form. Once the red light faded, she found herself standing on a dirt road outside of the palace walls. "I am back," she said softly as she looked around. She began walking down the road hoping to find a gate or guard to let her into the palace, after a few minutes she heard two familiar voices.
"Why did you have to drag me along Chiri?"
"You were clearing out the palace supply of sake, you know. I though a little fresh air would do you good, you know."
"Yea sure whatever, can't you teleport us or something?"
"Won't you two ever stop arguing?" she asked once she could see them
"Alexisa…?" asked Tasuki as he stopped in his tracks
"I'm back. Did you …" she was unable to finish due to Tasuki wrapping her in a hug and holding her tight.
"I thought you were dead," he said quietly into her ear
"Suzaku allowed me to live, to come back to you," she replied back
"Don't ever do that again," he said covering her lips with hers. "I love you," he said breaking the kiss. "I love you to" she replied.
"What are you doing here though?" asked Chichiri coming up behind them.
"Suzaku told me that he granted Miaka's one true wish and that it would only seem right to grant me mine."
"You mean?"
"Miaka and Tamahome are together in her world," she replied smiling
"Welcome home," replied Tasuki holding her hand, and walking back towards the palace.