A/N: Tradition demands that I make an Anatomy of a Scene with Yao's OTPs as I did with Koga. I said there was no order with Koga's leading ladies, yet I still had one anyway. But I assure you that there's none here. Hell, I didn't even know which ladies to use and had to ask my editor for additional input. I'll use his suggestions last to make up for him helping me.

And here we go.

The first lady I'll be using is Whip or Seirah.

She hasn't made many appearances in the KOF games since debuting in '99 and made recurring appearances in the rest of the NESTS saga. It was revealed that she was the clone of K's biological sister. (Where she got her name Seirah from) Whip was also the first successful clone out of all NESTS cloning experiments. Therefore, in 2001, she went rogue as an Ikari Warrior and joined K' and Maxima before being reenlisted. Since then, she made cameo appearances in The Ikari Warrior endings and reappeared in a playable capacity in KOF XIV and KOF XV. However, we don't know which team she's on yet. It can be heavily implied that she and K' will be on the same team again since it's either his team or the Ikari Warriors team. Not much is known about her, so she's pretty enigmatic.

Let's see how she fares in a romantic scene.

The streets of Aberdeen late at night are something I never got used to.

I was already sleeping upstairs at a late hour. With the atmosphere, I wouldn't be surprised if Juri attacked out of nowhere as her way of saying hi. Still, I guess I should've taken Captain's offer of crashing with him one more night in Manhattan before sending me back in the morning. But something told me I would be missing out on something big if I accepted, which is why I'm walking the streets at what feels like 11:30 to 12:00 in the morning.

I really hope she doesn't. Otherwise, my limiters are coming off immediately.

The King of Fighters Tournament XIII was undoubtedly a grand time, and I'm glad Captain invited me. I fought alongside him and Kagami and met some powerful Martial Artists. Though Captain almost dying was definitely a low point because of Mature, there were some high points. Personally meeting Ms. Muchiko. (Whip Girl) We really hit it off, and she even helped me deal with Shiki. Shiki made it clear that she would use me to resurrect Yuga the Destroyer as a beacon. (Yeah, that wasn't very fun) But after the battle, she passed out as I brought her back to Commander Heidern after an investigation. That was the last time I saw her since Captain, Kagami, and I helped Ash erase Saiki from existence. We said our goodbyes to our numerous clients and went our separate ways.

Eh, I guess it wasn't meant to be.

As I reached the store's steps, I noticed a shadowy figure sitting on the steps. Oh, Buddha. Please don't tell me it's Juri. I'm still recovering from battling Saiki and Evil Ash. The last thing I need is to have a fight that wakes up my neighbors. My visitor's voice made me breathe a sigh of relief.

"Yao? Is that you?"

I walked closer, and the figure stood up before running to give me a big hug. The moonlight finally let me see the woman whose curves melded against me nicely. I failed to fight off a smile when I saw her face.

"Ms. Muchiko. What are you doing in Aberdeen?" I

She playfully pouts at my nickname. "I told you to call me Seirah! I don't like when people call me Muchiko or Whippy."

"Sorry, Seirah. I couldn't help one more dig. But seriously, what are you doing here so late?"

"Yeah, you kept me waiting a while, Yao. I already met your uncle and his wife." Seirah increased her hold but remained a bit shy. "As for why I'm here, I... asked Commander Heidern for early leave so I can see you with a proper thank you for helping with Shiki."

I couldn't help but laugh lightly at her joke. "I didn't thank you before? Well, thank you, Seirah. Your help wasn't needed, but I appreciate it anyway."

"Excuse you? If it wasn't for me, Shiki would've killed you in cold blood."

I got lost in her eyes. Summoning some courage, I kissed her cheek. "Jokes aside, I'm happy to see you, and you didn't have to request Commander Heidern for an early leave. With how he doesn't like Captain, I can guess he wasn't happy with you asking him that."

"Oh, he wasn't," Seirah admitted. "But I could care less. I really wanted to see you, so I can confirm the flirting we did to the test and what happened at the Temple."

The apology was for what happened at the Temple. Captain, Kagami and I split up to follow three leads from Adelheid, Commander, and Ms. Kagura. We ended up fighting three different people. Captain fought Ash followed by Mr. Karate, and then we found him as Mature was about to kill him. Kagami fought Kain R. Heinlein, and I fought Shiki, stalking us since the first round's aftermath. Seirah followed and helped me with releasing her from Yuga's torment. She passed out due to fatigue, and I got her out of there before Shiki and his cronies found us.

Reluctantly, I broke off the embrace with guilt consuming me. "I'm truly sorry about that, Seirah."

"Don't be. I knew what I was getting myself into, and we saved her. It was worth it."

She started to shiver as it was growing cold out.

"Come on, Seirah. Let's go inside." I opened the door to the shop. After getting comfortable, we were upstairs in the living room.

"It's a cozy place. You live here alone?"

"My little sister used to stay here too, but she eventually went to school to be a gymnast. She was an amnesiac, but her memories finally came back. Unfortunately, I couldn't see her off since I was in Brazil getting these essentially," I answered, showing her my limiters. "So you met Uncle and Ren?"

"I did. As I said, I was here for a while, so he treated me to Ms. Ren's food. How come you didn't tell me your step-aunt was a phenomenal cook, hmm?"

"Well, I wasn't expecting you to come to my hometown with how the last time we saw each other went. I honestly thought you hated me."

"Yao..."

"I'm serious, Seirah. You haven't met the women I used to be with, but you'd understand why if you did. Each and everyone was a product of admittedly my bad decision-making skills. a cavalcade of impulsive thinking," I joke lightly. "A woman who doesn't have some sort of twisted history and shows genuine interest after our last encounter, can you blame me for thinking things went south?"

Seirah gave me a longing look. "Heh. You are certainly good at hiding your insecurities. Which makes what I have to say all the easier."

"Hmm? What are you talking about?"

"I... I am not the actual Seirah. I'm her perfect clone made by NESTS back in 1999. I retain all of her memories, which is why I call K' and Kula my siblings. But I'm not human. So, if you're thinking that way, then imagine how I felt when I learned through our conversations that you might actually have feelings for me?"

"Seirah... with what I have dealt with, you telling me you're a clone is normal," I reassured.

She said, justifiably confused. "Huh?"

"I have thirteen little sisters, all of which were brainwashed soldiers for a terrorist organization. Only two of them are Chinese like me. The rest are from different countries and are of different ethnicities. Hell, a couple of them are clones now that I think about it. So trust me, clones are normal to me. You have nothing to worry about there. And if you're still here, that means Uncle and or Ren like you. It's probably going to be me who messes this up."

"Would you stop doubting yourself? Has the two years you spent in the Amazon really screwed up your social skills that bad?"

"Please." I started. "I was always this paranoid when it came to romance. While dialed back thanks to my family, harsh karma still rears its gruesome head. Though I don't think I haven't done anything that warrants any negative karma, I'm on the brink of not testing it."

I stood and yawned. Seirah approached and gave me an even deeper hug than the one outside. For the love Buddha, Yao. She's the light in what felt like an eternal dark tunnel. DO NOT push her away.

"Well..." Seirah began before kissing my cheek like I did outside and making eye contact with me. "Let me be your surge of good karma. God knows I need someone who isn't a co-worker or a sibling. I can tell that being around you is relaxing and calming to my very core. I want to be with you, Yao. Let me. Please?"

Say yes. Say yes. Say yes, damnit. I smiled at this woman who I think is too good for me. My woman. My girlfriend.

"Of course, Seirah. I'll be yours too as it's only fair. Hopefully, I don't mess this up for us."

"Stop worrying so much, Yao. I'll knock some sense into you if you start second-guessing us. Trust me, will you?"

"Yes, Seirah. I'm sorry, I'm already overthinking thi-" Seirah cut me off by giving me a loving kiss, her curves becoming one with my body. Oh, my Buddha.

"Shh. I'm here now. I'm here for you. For us. The future holds nothing but good fortune for us. I can feel it."

"I love your optimism, Seirah."

"And I love you, Mr. Sennin. Now, it's getting late, so we should turn in. I look forward to you holding me while we sleep."

"Then follow me, sweetie."

I wish I knew more about Seirah to do a better portrayal, but I only have so much to work with. Ah, it stinks.

Anyway, that's how the confession scene would go. Many truths, doubts, some reaffirmation into how crazy the pair's lives were when they were separate. Yet, there's a light at the end of the tunnel. Yao's past relationships haunt in some form since they were preventable. He's only human, and his relationships aren't all sunshine and rainbows like Benji. The latter had his fair share of struggles, but not to this degree.

But I'm handicapped because we know little about Whip, personality included. Unfortunately, after the NESTS saga was complete, she was shafted for this scene. If I learned more about her, I would definitely do better. But that's the best I can do with what I've been given.

My personal pick for partners for Yao in the DOA verse. The rest of the selections are all DOA women since picking an SF girl would probably ruin what I might have planned for Yao later down the line, so just a heads up. The next scene will have my second and final pick before diving into who my editor chose. I was torn between Lei Fang and Phase 4 but decided to go with the former for reasons I'll dive into later. Upon further inspection, Hitomi would be a good choice for him too, but we're too deep in it now. Maybe in another edition, I'll look deeper into that relationship.

But for now, here's the Lei Fang scene.

I found the Mountain Temple Master Gen Fu told me about and reached a high enough point where moving further would be considered illegal. I turned around and sat for meditation. Ryu and I's battle with Bankotsubo was more intense than I could ever imagine. Thanks to some good folk like Muramasa and Momiji, my physical wounds and scars have healed again. Something that crazy riled me up mentally.

I've seen some crazy things, but fighting and being an accessory in the death of a Tengu while destroying the tree he used to merge part of Makai with the human world really took a mental toll on me. Taking my limiters off my wrists and ankles, I took a few deep breaths and closed my eyes to begin my meditation session.

The atmosphere around me slowly grew silent as my breathing became the only thing I could hear in tandem with my slowed heartbeat. It came to a crawl, and the monkeys moving around the area were silenced in my mind. Even the renewed gentle breeze started to feel numb as my mind began putting itself back together. My soul felt cleansed and free once more. With one final breath, I opened my eyes to see a surprising but welcoming sight as the birds that roosted on my person flew away.

"Lei Fang." I greeted my visitor before placing my limiters back on, starting with y ankles. "Interesting seeing you here."

"I wanted to call out, but you seemed really into it. You were like this when I found you an hour ago."

"I applaud your patience. What are you doing on top of the mountain?" I complimented while putting my wrist limiters on.

"I was looking for you. And then Master Gen Fu told me you went to the Monkey Temple. So I followed the path just like you did, so I could hopefully run into you. I wasn't expecting you to be at the top already. I was really fatigued when I got to the top."

"You never made the whole trip before?"

"Well, I ran up to be more accurate." Lei Fang flaunted her outfit. "I'm more surprised I didn't fall with my heels on."

"Wow, and I thought I was impressive." I stood up. "But do tell, Lei Fang. Why were you looking for me?"

"Remember the last time we saw each other and fought as you beat me bad? Remember what you told me as you helped me up?"

"Hmm." I recollected our last meeting where Lei Fang challenged me to a fight after dealing with an angry Bass. It wasn't our first battle as we sparred earlier when she learned that I beat Master Gen Fu in the most serious fight I ever partook in alone. He actually made me consider taking my limiters off. But I beat him barely with them on still.

"I told you to seek a new reason for improvement since your one-sided rivalry will only stagnate you," I recalled. "So, you found out your new motivation for improving?"

"Sure have! But before I tell you, can I ask you a question?" Lei Fang answered with a bright smile.

That made me smile in return. We both started walking down the mountain path together. "Shoot."

"You said your training to become a Sennin was the harshest regimen you ever partook. But you said you did it for a similar reason as me. What was that reason?"

"Well, I have a little sister that I adopted who was an amnesiac. She could defend herself but had no purpose, and I was still protective of her. I eventually accepted the geezer who gave me the title, knowing I would become much stronger to protect her. Especially now that she can't practice Martial Arts as much anymore due to being a training gymnast," I answered honestly.

"Wow, even back then, you were being extremely selfless."

"What is your new reason for improving yourself?"

"Uhm, there's someone who has been nothing but kind to me. He's done nothing but raise my spirits and is my inspiration for wanting to get stronger. So on top of my original motivation of self-improvement, I do it so he can see me as an equal. Both as a Martial Artist and... as a woman." Lei Fang shyly answered, a light blush appearing on her face.

"Oh, wow. That's a great answer, Lei Fang. Much better than your previous motivations of proving yourself an equal to someone who won't even pay attention. Do I know this man?" I jokingly asked.

I knew she was talking to me, but she's adorable when flustered, so I want to see her like this more. Lei Fang playfully pouted as her blush increased.

"Yeah, you do! You know him really well!" She answered angrily as we made it a quarter way down the mountain.

I playfully scratched my chin, pretending to think of a solid guess while choking on my laughter. "Yao! Don't play with me!"

"Whatever are you talking about, Lei Fang? I'm trying to think of the gentleman who can raise your spirits this well."

"We both know I'm talking about you!" Lei Fang nearly yelled as she huffed.

I winced before laughing heartily. We both stopped. "Sorry, Lei Fang. I had to prod you a little. I'm genuinely flattered you think of me that way. Though I don't think I'm not special enough to be looked at in that certain way."

Lei Fang looked genuinely offended, if not confused. "What? Everyone knew of my one-sided rivalry with Jann Lee, but you were the one who helped me get out of it."

"It was the right thing to do. Being a Good Samaritan, I don't think would be enough to warrant that kind of behavior."

"And you're ridiculously strong and well respected in the Martial Arts world."

"But so are you, Ms. Tai Chi Chuan Prodigy. You have nothing to prove to me." I countered.

She scoffed. "In your eyes, maybe."

"It sounds like you don't know how much of a catch you are, Lei Fang."

"What do you mean?"

"I mean, you're strong, kind, passionate, and beautiful. Do I have to continue?" I complimented her multiple times, causing Lei Fang blush to return with a vengeance. "Most women would commit felonies to have a fraction of what you got. And instead of noticing this yourself, you spend too much of your time trying to prove yourself to people who either don't deserve it, like Jann Lee. Or people who already know your worth."

"Like you?" She said hopefully.

I smiled and pecked her cheek, which turned her face beet red. "Yes, Lei. Like me." I moved and hugged her from behind, resting my head on her shoulder. "I think you're a wonderful woman whose smile never fails to brighten someone's day, much like it has mine." I raised her arm and formed a fist with her hand. "Whose fists without fail or mercy silence all those who wish nothing but bad things upon her. Finally, whose natural beauty and knowledge of this turns every straight man's head whenever she enters a room."

Without seeing my face, Lei Fang took her palm and caressed it. "I do all of those things?"

"Of course. And you were so caught up in impressing Jann Lee and later myself that you never noticed." I turned her around, so we both looked each other in the eyes. "You are a remarkable and one-of-a-kind woman, Lei."

"But..."

"But what? What more could you possibly want?"

"But I want to be your woman, Yao!" She demanded, in the best way. "I do all of this to be a woman worthy of you. A woman of your kindness, a woman of your power. That is what motivates me now. The potential to have you cherish and treasure me is all the motivation I need."

"Lei... if you wanted that so bad, you could have just asked me. I would be more than happy to have our relationship become intimate. I wouldn't think that way of you if I didn't want something similar myself."

"But it would feel like I didn't earn it. Someone like you doing something as flat as asking me out or vice versa would just be the status quo. Or it would make me look like a trophy." She complained.

"Lei, you have to stop comparing yourself to me. It's not very fair. We're all imperfect. Finding someone to cherish and care for is the best way to cancel those out. Go ahead, Lei. Do it."

Lei Fang took her hands and intertwined them with mine, refusing to break eye contact with me. "Wuming Yao. Will you go out with me?"

I smiled once again. "Absolutely, Lei Fang."

I pulled her in for a hug, and her divine figure melds with mine as we share our first kiss as a couple. Lei Fang moaned as our tongues slowly danced before we separated.

"Wow," she said in awestruck. "That was amazing."

"And it's only the beginning for us," I said before wrapping my arm around hers. "Come on, let's get off this mountain."

"Okay."

See what happens when I have more to work with?

This is miles better than the Whip confession, in my opinion. I think I portrayed Lei Fang perfectly in a scenario like this. Yao's doing good at every turn would attract someone like her much as it did with another beautiful Chinese woman. Unlike her, nothing was forced. It was 100% natural, and there was no coercion in forming the coupling. I impressed myself with this confession.

Now that my picks are done, time for my editor's choices. The first of the two is Kasumi, the heroine of the DOA games. She underwent the most character development out of the entire cast. But I'm treading on thin ice since she's only 19 from DOA 5 onward since from DOA 1-4, she's 17, meaning she's a minor. Even though she's of legal age in America, my home state of CT (legal age of consent in CT is 16), and Japan (legal age of consent in Japan is 12 iirc), the romance must take place in the time of DOA 5 or 6. Or else the FBI will be paying me a visit. Despite this, writing a convincing confession shouldn't be too difficult.

Let's see how I do.

I woke up and stretched since being asleep would stiffen my limbs up. After getting dressed and putting my limiters on, I went downstairs and flipped the sign to open as I headed outside. Per my routine, the delivery boy chucked the newspaper as I caught it with one hand.

"Here's your paper, Yao Sifu!"

I thought about correcting him, but he's been doing that for years now. Best to just let him have that though I'm not a Sifu in technicality. Heading back inside, I began brewing a cup of tea for myself and sat down on my stool. I put my 'ring for service' sign on the display table and read the newspaper.

"Global Conglomerate MIST exposed as a military and terrorist organization. CEO Victor Donovan was found dead in the main building wreckage." The headline read.

"Jeez... I know the others said they weren't taking any prisoners, but shit. That whole op was chaotic anyway. I'm glad they didn't ask me to help." I murmured to myself.

While Ryu and the others know how powerful I am, I don't like getting involved in other people's messes unless I'm faced with no other option. It's very disrespectful to barge in. Now I'm starting to sound like Oro. Just my luck.

But it's justified. I helped Ryu takedown Bankotsubo, Genra, and Alpha-152. The biggest hurdle last time was Christie, and that psychotic bitch was a break though I still didn't enjoy being there at all.

The only upside was meeting Hayate's little sister, Kasumi - a gentle soul despite feeling conflicted about fighting others and herself. She's still growing into the person she'll later be, so that's to be expected. I thought I saw her again a couple of weeks ago, but it turns out that it was just a clone of her. I wish the best for her wherever she may be. As I continued reading through the newspaper...

*DING*

The bell never fails.

With Yun and Yang still hanging around, they ring the bell to annoy me. Wow, I really am starting to sound like Oro. I pray to Buddha that Jian visits soon as I need someone to wash this disgusting cynicism off me. Peeking above the newspaper, I looked to see if it was one of the Lee Twins or an actual customer.

It was neither, hence why I'm frozen by the person who rang the bell.

"Kasumi?" I asked, genuinely surprised.

She chuckled at my shock. "In the flesh."

"Sure you're not a clone?"

"I'm positive," Kasumi stated with a smile. "It's good to see you."

"Likewise, Kasumi. Have a seat, and I'll make you some tea."

She giggled. "Thank you, I'll take you up on that offer."

I helped her get comfortable and made Kasumi some tea as promised. She wasn't wearing her ninja clothing, but rather a lovely pink and white sundress with an accompanying sunhat and heels.

"So, this is your home and workplace? I thought you were joking when you told me that you ran a medicine store."

"That tends to be the trend with people who are more powerful than they appear. Master Gen Fu runs a bookstore, Ryu runs an Antique Shop, and I run a medicine store," I joked while restocking some oils that I just sold. Kasumi chuckled at my light jests. "You're awfully cheery, more so than normal. Good news have you feeling well?"

"What makes you think that? Maybe I find your jokes genuinely funny?" She playfully countered.

Now it's my turn to chuckle as I head back over to the display table. "Because I'd be the first to tell you that my jokes aren't that funny, if at all."

I gave her a second look as she walked over to the opposite side of the display, where I usually stay when the shop's open. "But I can tell that you have changed, Kasumi. In a good way. You no longer have the look of doubt you used to when last I saw you. Like you've made peace with whatever gave your mind its conflict."

"A lot has changed in two years, Yao. You know this well." She said as she gripped my wrist limiters. "I have changed a lot, and the conflicts I have faced allowed me to mature."

"I can tell, Kasumi. From your demeanor and how you carry yourself, you've become a fine young lady."

"Thank you. But I'm surprised you didn't ask me why I came here to see you."

"I was going to, but I really enjoy your company," I said with a warm smile.

"As do I." Kasumi paused. "I remember when last we talked that despite being who you are, you wished to live a quiet life with a woman to come home to. And despite being a minor, I concurred without what I wanted for myself. At first, I thought it was just to return home and see Hayate again. But as time went by and I grew, I realized that wasn't what I truly wanted. And through talking with Hayabusa-san and Muramasa-san, and thinking back to what you said, I knew that I wished the same as you do. A quiet life unbothered by troubles."

"Well, I'm happy to have played a part in you finding your inner peace. You know, I wish for nothing but the best of you, Kasumi. I can guess your revelation of having similar wants as mine brought you here?"

Kasumi nodded then joined our hands together. "If you'll allow me, I want to be a part of your life. I want to be there for you when you wake or sleep in times of good and bad. I wish to be your steadfast pillar of support. The one you love and cherish with every fiber of your being. Will you grant this of me?" She poured her heart out to me. "That is what my soul is telling me to do. And if not, I understand. But at the very least, allow me to watch over and protect you as your guardian angel. I just... wish to be with you always."

"Wow, Kasumi. I never thought you'd feel this way. It warms me inside to hear you be honest with yourself and me. But what of your family back in Japan? I thought you wanted to return home?"

"A product of my childish desires. A nukenin can never come back to her home, lest she is killed, regardless of whether she was the Clan's princess or not," Kasumi said as she looked down, breaking eye contact. "While my family may have forgiven me for turning tail and running away to avenge Hayate, the others do not share the same sentiment."

"Do you share any regrets about becoming a nukenin?"

"No, I don't. Meeting you told me that doing what you think is right builds character. Your scars are proof of that. I remember you telling me every one of your scars was from being a good samaritan. Instead of being bitter, you took it as a lesson and strived to be a better person for it." Kasumi's expression brightened again. "I was awestruck when you told me that, and I firmly believe that it gave me more confidence." She then blushed. "Then I knew I wanted to take a more personal role in your life. But I was too young and wanted to clear things up with Hayate and Ayane."

Did Kasumi just admit to having a crush on me since she was 17? That's a lot of time to let that simmer. I'm glad she didn't act on it while still a minor. When I was still a green Sennin, I was making bad decisions all over and did not want to ruin both our lives because of another.

Additionally, Ayane's animosity toward Kasumi and anyone associated with her was baffling. She lashed out at me for even talking to her older half-sister. I put Ayane in her place physically, but it was like she was violence triggered at the mere mention of Kasumi. Ryu, Hayate, and I had played a part in reducing and eventually getting rid of the pent-up hate she had for Kasumi. Alas, Genra's death played a significant role since she acted that way due to his manipulations. Once he was gone, she slowly started regaining her sense of agency.

After dealing with the Alpha-152 clones, the two finally buried the hatchet in front of Ryu, Hayate, and Helena, so Ryu told me.

"I have made my peace with my family and myself. Now, I want to be your peace, Yao. That's all I ask of you. Would you grant me that honor?"

"I never would've imagined that I would play such a big role in your steps of maturity. Are you sure that being with me is what you want?" I gave her a chance to back out.

"I'm positive this is what I want. I want to be with you. Whether a day or a lifetime, I wish to spend whatever time I have left with you. Will you have me?"

She closed the distance between us. As Kasumi looked up at me, her sunhat came off to allow me to see her face in full.

"Yes, Kasumi. You can stay with me. I look forward to every moment with you," I proclaimed.

"And I feel the same," she breathed, her hot breath teasing my lower lip.

Testing the waters, Kasumi shyly reached and gave me the softest kiss as we both breathed deeply, taking a deep whiff of each other's aromas.

Sakura petals.

A bit of a departure, I'd say.

I've never played DOA 6's story because, why would I? In hindsight, I would have a better idea of portraying Kasumi. I still did a good job, I feel. Since Kasumi's no longer hesitant in what she must do to protect those she treasures, I had to make her more confident than how she's portrayed in earlier entries. Kasumi has to be described as shy in romance since she's never felt that way towards anyone before. I used the sundress costume from DOA 5 LR since it's one of my favorite Kasumi costumes next to her other sundress and leather jacket combination. Those two outfits are godlike, in my opinion.

The last scene will center around Momiji, who's severely underrated in Ninja Gaiden and DOA. She's my ninja choice in gameplay next to Phase 4 and has had some character development of her own. But she isn't used much in the DOA games due to being DLC in both of her appearances. (Team Ninja needs to get their shit together, I swear)

Anyway, let's get the scene started before I start ranting.

Vision? Blurry. Head? Throbbing lightly.

And I could tell some of my scars have been reopened too. Just my luck. But somehow, my top is off, along with my limiters. I don't remember taking those off.

Run the clock back quickly.

I helped Ryu and the others deal with Genra after dealing with Christie, who tried to kill Irene. I was forced to stall for time to allow Ayane to kill her adopted father, so I took my wrist limiters off. I probably could've killed Genra myself if I wasn't battling to stall. But that wasn't the goal. I put my limiters back on and then faded to black.

Which means my fears were confirmed. My body isn't used to having a set of limiters off for long periods. I knew they were flawed in some way, but Oro didn't want to listen. Giving my torso a quick inspection, I noticed more than half of my scars were reopened. Oh, Buddha. Don't tell me that removing the limiters is also hurting me? I tried to sit up but immediately felt a hand push me back down on the floor, albeit softly.

"Don't move so much. You've been out for days now," Momiji's voice spoke.

"Deja vu," I responded before what she said just registered. "DAYS?" I jerked up as the pain in my chest felt like a punch from Raidou during his transformation. "Oh, my Naraka. Why did I do that?"

"Perhaps you're more fond of pain than you care to admit," Momiji joked as she helped me sit up.

"Wouldn't that be something?"

"You know, when we agreed to see each other again, this was not what I had in mind. I was expecting a visit to your store. Not a repeat of what happened with Bankotsubo. How come every time I make contact with you, you're being carried on Master Ryu's back unconscious?"

The anger in her tone made it hard to tell if Momiji's being sarcastic or not. I'm going to say that it's the latter.

"He and Hayate asked for my help in dealing with Genra, and I said yes. I knew the potential consequences of doing so and accepted them."

"You may be a Sennin, but that isn't a profession that should include life or death scenarios regularly."

"Sennin isn't a profession. It's a title or a rank, much like a Master or Black Belt. Running a medicine store is my profession."

"All the more reason you shouldn't involve yourself with matters like these. I thought the scolding I gave Master Ryu when he brought you here because of Bankotsubo would be enough to get him to leave you alone in times like these. But now that I'm addressing your reopened scars again, I guess I'll be giving him a second helping."

*Tch* "You sound like the man who helped me become a Sennin. Do not involve yourself with others' problems just because you can do so."

"Is your relationship with him healthy?"

"I acknowledge and respect him. But our relationship is contentious at best," I answered.

Momiji began disinfecting my reopened scars. I grabbed my wrist limiters and tried to put them on but realized I was still not wearing a shirt.

"What do those do anyway? And why do you constantly wear them?" Momiji inquired. "Whatever they are, they were tough to remove with you not being awake."

"They're limiters. A Sennin must find a way to handicap themselves to not accidentally kill their opponents. So the man who gave me the title of Sennin made these for me. I put them on my wrists and ankles to restrain my abilities. Wrists tone down my physical strength, ankles limit my speed. I can't use my more powerful Senjutsu techniques when they're both on. But the last two instances, I took off a set, which confirms that my body isn't used to fighting for long stretches with them off."

Momiji glanced at my limiters as I explained their use. "And how do you take them off?"

"I channel chi through my wrists or ankles, and they disconnect. I have to update my training regimen to fight without them because that's why I was carried by Ryu. But I never knew why he brings me to the Hayabusa village as opposed to my store."

"The first time was because he trusted that I can get you back on your feet faster than any doctor he knew. As I got to know you when you weren't around, I requested Master Ryu to bring you back here so I could tend to your wounds as you recovered. But I wasn't expecting to see you so soon after the last time," Momiji said as she finished treating my wounds. "There. In a few hours, your scars will be closed."

"Thanks, Momi-"

She pointed an accusatory finger at me. "But that doesn't mean you can leave the village."

That annoyed me. "Why not? You tell me not to get involved then get angry when I want to go back to Hong Kong? What's up with that, Momiji?"

"Because I want to spend time with you while you're upright as opposed to addressing your wounds while you sleep. I'm worried my efforts will be pointless," she bluntly said.

That got me to back off. I sat like I would meditate, and Momiji mirrored me, a slight blush on her face.

"What?"

"Look, Yao. I have lost a lot despite being four years younger than you. The death of my older sibling has made me more selective on who I choose to have bonds with. I want to establish one with you, but every time I reach out, Master Ryu brings your unconscious body here. All I ever wanted with you was to be more than a person I patch up because he can't say no, like he has something to prove. Whatever crime you committed in the past, you've paid for it already. Stop acting like this to become a martyr. And if I can prevent you from doing so, then I'll do it!" Momiji stressed.

"Momiji..."

"Everyone asked me about where you were and when next they were going to see you. Even Sanji asked me about your whereabouts. They... commented on how good we looked, how happy I was to be with you, and you were to be in my company. You get along with everyone here, and I look forward to seeing where our relationship goes. But I can only do this so much before I lose my mind."

"This is only the second time, Momiji."

"That's beside the point. How can I even begin to love you if I'm constantly saving your life?" she countered.

"I'm sorry, Momiji. I didn't think it would eat at you like this."

She merged our hands together. "I'm elated and grateful to know that I had a hand in preventing your injuries from getting worse. It's how we met and became so close despite only having a handful of conversations. I just want our relationship to be more than patching you up only for you to go back out there and have the cycle repeat itself," Momiji clarified.

"Thank you, Momiji. How can I ever repay you?" I requested softly and kindly since I know I'm in the wrong here.

She then gave me a kiss on the lips. "For starters, you can stop getting injured. Plus, we need to find your guardian, so he can give you an exam so we can better understand what wearing your limiters for so long did to your body."

"Fair enough. I guess you can also use that as an excuse to meet my uncle. Anything else?"

Momiji showed a bright smile. "Just to spend some quality time with you. Outside the village where I won't get flustered by my peers' comments or compliments."

"But I like it when you get flustered. It's cute," I jested.

Momiji pinched my nose, failing to hide her own laughter. "You and your snide comments." She then blushed again. This woman. "And, maybe I can see you with less clothing on?"

I have to give her credit. Momiji knows what she wants and isn't afraid to say so.

I kissed her palm lovingly and did the same with her knuckle. "Anything for you, my lady."

She started hyperventilating for a moment but quickly collected herself. "Good. Sit tight; our time together starts now. I'll get some soup that the elders are making and we can eat it together." Momiji my cheek and standing up. "I'll be back soon, okay?"

"I'll be here, Momiji."

She smiled at my earnest answer before leaving the room. I took a deep breath while leaning back to look at my limiters. Did Oro know this was going to happen? I might have to do some fighting without them, so my body can reacclimate itself to not having them on. Maybe Momiji will help me with that too. Eh, I doubt it. I might have to ask Ryu.

But something tells me she won't be happy with either of those decisions. Curse my luck.

Before I got too deep in thought, Momiji peeked around the door. "Oh, and don't worry about Christie either."

My face fell. "You didn't-"

"No, though I had every intention to eliminate her for the role she played in your injuries. Let's just say that assassin will be indisposed for a while. But she'll be back. Sit tight. I'll be back."

Momiji left again. Wow. She healed most of my injuries and took out Christie? That's a winner in my book.

In the A-B-C Challenge, I said that Yao and Momiji would have great chemistry. As I was writing this scene, a similar scenario happened with the Koga and Mature scene I did a while back. My hunch was correct if this scene was any indication. Shucks. The relationship was cemented here, but the overall tone felt like they were already dating for some time. Guess I have another sleeper pairing on my hands. And unlike Koga and Mature, I might cement it in verse to boot. (No argument from me)

Alwaysdoubted, what are your takes on these scenes?

AD: All four scenes were done well in keeping each lady in their respective personalities while giving insights into their motivation for wanting Yao.

To your point, there isn't much info on Whip as either of us would like, but that doesn't mean something couldn't blossom between her and Yao. Any further insight on her backstory would do her wonders. Nothing much else to say on Whip, I'm afraid.

For Lei Fang, it's all about letting go of what I call an infatuation. It's no secret she sees Jan Lee as a figurative bar she has to scale. I have no idea why she continued to let him treat her the way he has. That's not love or even affection. It's nothing short of neglect and abuse. Yao was right in making her see that before Lei Fang did something that would harm her beyond comprehension.

Possibly the most interesting dialogue happened between Yao and Kasumi. Everyone knows of her less than ideal family relations with Ayane, even with Hayate and Ryu. But she's finally learned to put all of that behind her and look forward to a new day. No longer does doubt or fear cloud her mind or judgment. And now she has her eyes set on a new destiny. One that involves Yao by her side.

Easily the most emotional confession came in the last scene. Momiji made it no secret that she disapproves of Yao throwing himself into danger to help her fellow ninjas. Yet, it's a double-edged sword as it was the only way for her to see him consistently. Crazy how it works out that way. Yao realizes that this may be an argument he'll have no chance to win after Momiji gets on him again. Then again, it wouldn't be the worst loss as his new love has already thrown away any inhibitions between them - while taking out Christie.

It's a great take on each woman, and it's hard to pick a winner at this juncture.