Chapter 17

Chazz: (Comes into Jennifer’s room with Hiki and Tori to wake up Jennifer but stop hearing the tune she is making).

Jennifer: (Continues to hum as she washes up).

Shizen: (Looks at the door thinking someone is behind it and opens the door to peaks out).  Oh well good morning you three.  You may have wait until she gets out of the bath, but she woke up recently so no need to be her alarm clock today.

Chazz: Well, I only have her food and the mail that she has missed over the last couple of days.

Hiki and Tori: (Stay silent to keep in the character of servants).

Shizen: Very well I see there is a lot of mail, Hiki could you help bring everything in since you are her maid and then you can stop acting so quiet.  It’s not in your personality so settle down, I don’t think anyone else is around to see you to at the moment.

Hiki: Yes, madam Shizen.  (Helps brings in the food and mail).

Shizen: (Before closing the door).  Well see you two later.  Hiki are you staying here then and please no formal name calling.  I get enough of that back in the nature territory.

Hiki: (Once the door closes, she undoes the ponytail her hair was in and changes into the white summer dress she had brought along with her).  Oh finally!  Trying to be all calm and polite is weird if I do it for too long.

Shizen: (Laughs).  I thought so, it does not suit who you are.

Jennifer: (Continues to hum and wash off not really noticing Hiki is in her room being in her own little world as she relaxes).

Hiki: (Just watches and listens to the door Jennifer is in).  As empty minded as they can be in the morning, isn’t she?

Shizen: (Laughs more).  Well before she got in there, she was grumpier then usual, but I think this woke her up.  (Hears a knock on the door).  Hmm quite busy today I see.  (Opens the door and it is Kairi who is let in still wearing her pink nightgown).  Oh, good morning.

Kairi: Good morning oh Hiki your here to good morning to you as well!  (Smiles brightly still holding a pink stuffed rabbit that she usually has on her bed).

Hiki: (Smiles as she just hugs Kairi).  Oh, so cute you are Kairi… Oh my you’re so adorable!  (Keeps hugging Kairi as she rubs her cheeks on her).

Kairi: (Hugs Hiki back and giggles).  Thank you and your pretty as well.  I really like your dress ooh and maybe today or someday soon we could go shopping since you liked the dresses from before.  That would be so much fun!  (Smiles more at the idea of shopping for new things).

Hiki: (Smiles back at Kairi with a nod).  Sure, that sounds like fun and I would be happy to do that.

Kairi: Yay!  (Has a excited expression but then looks around for Jennifer).  Where is sis?

Shizen: If you turn around you will see she is in the bath.

Kairi: Oh alright, ooh maybe I can go in as well.  I have not taken one yet.  (She skips into the bathroom).  Hi sis, can I come in too?

Jennifer: (Jolts back being surprised and instinctively covers herself being in the bubbly part of the bath).  Oh, Kairi I umm guess so if you wish and good morning.  I would keep your stuffed rabbit out of the way, you do not want to ruin it.

Kairi: (Goes to put her rabbit someplace dry and to get a towel for herself).  Alright and ooh a bubble bath I always liked having those.

Jennifer: (Sighs).  I guess so but not for long alright?

Kairi: Alright, no problem.

Hiki: (Is in the bedroom waiting since she does not want to cause another scene with Jennifer as much she is just tempted to just jump in).

Shizen: (Sighs and laughs a little shaking her head).  You want to jump in don’t you… Go ahead, I am sure she will not freak out as much as before since this happened at the hot spring.

Hiki: (Looks up at Shizen with a sparkle in her eye).  Are you sure?

Shizen: (Laughs).  Why not, the worse that happens is she freaks out a little.

Hiki: (Speeds off in an instant leaving behind the dress she just had on as she jumps into the pool like bath).

Jennifer: (Is taken by surprise by the sudden splash of water before seeing Hiki instantly covering herself with her arms again).  H-Hiki what are you doing here!

Kairi: (Swims over to Hiki happily).  Hi again!  Isn’t the water so nice and warm.  It is so much fun with all the bubbles as well.

Hiki: It really is with all the bubbles all over the place.  It makes it all cool to sit in and I still needed my morning bath so why not have it now Jenny!

Jennifer: (Sighs and still tries to cover herself).  Why do I have a feeling this will be a normal thing.

Shizen: It probably will be at this point.  (No one had noticed her come into the bath but now she is next to Jennifer with arms her resting on the rim of the bath looking quite relaxed).

Jennifer: How did you-?

Shizen: Well, everyone else joined so why not.

Kura: (Appears from Kairi’s mind and sits beside her and Hiki).  I guess it wouldn’t hurt to join then.

Jennifer: (Sighs in defeat).  I cannot win this.

Hiki: (Looks around).  More than likely you can’t because of how we are plus it makes things more fun this way doesn’t it?

Jennifer: Fine but we are not doing this every day.

Kairi: Alright but the bubbles are fun still.

Kura: Yes, they are, and Kairi would you like me to wash your hair then.

Kairi: Alright thank you!  (Smiles happily still).

Kura: (Starts to wash Kairi’s hair using some of the bubbles).

Shizen: (Just sits back and relaxes).

Jennifer: (Uses the bubbles to try and hide her body more).

Hiki: (Goes over by Jennifer).  Come on, why you have to keep on hiding from us?

Jennifer: (Hides even more in the bubbles with a pout).  No I’m staying in the bubbles but thank you.  Here you can have some too.  (Grabs some bubbles and place them on Hiki’s head).

Kairi: (Giggles at how Hiki looks with the bubbles all over her head).

Hiki: (Takes more and more bubbles as she puts some on herself to cover most of her).  I am no longer Hiki but bubble girl!  (Makes a type of silly pose).

Kairi: Ooh can I be your sidekick then!  (Places bubbles on herself and giggles).

Hiki: Why of course you can!  (Makes a big smile and a giggle along with Kairi).

Kura: (Laughs but stays sitting wanting to relax a little more).

Jennifer: (Starts laughing as well at how Kairi is following Hiki’s silly pose thinking it is adorable). 

Kura: Well, I must say you would be the greatest crime fighters of all time… But breakfast comes before bubble crime fighting.

Kairi: Thank you but maybe we can do that after this and breakfast.

Jennifer: Well, I think if Hiki is here that means Chazz brought food by so maybe there is enough to share.

????: … Oh, that’s what this is?

Kura: (Turns around to see Yami sitting on the bathroom counter with a tray of food he is eating off of).  Yami that wasn’t for you, ask before you take.

Yami: (Shrugs casually).  Well, it was sitting out there, what was I supposed to do?  Leave it to get cold?

Jennifer: (Hides more into the bubbles so she is all covered and blushes heavily).  Eek!

Kairi: Good morning Yami!

Yami: Morning.  Hey, you guys going to be done soon?  I want to get some training done.

Shizen: (Just sighs shaking her head not trying to hide staying in her relax position).  So clueless.

Hiki: (Use the bubbles to cover herself as she hides behind Kura not wanting to be seen by another boy besides Chazz).

Kura: (Notices Hiki and does her best to cover her).  Yami could you leave for now?

Yami: But what about the food?  I can take that with, right?  (Continues to eat and sit there casually).

Kura: (Laughs a little).  I understand that we take baths together, but some others are not used to that kind of thing so please go or I will drag you in the bath as well.

Yami: (Eyes widen and then he picks up the tray of food not wanting to leave it).  Fine just don’t drag me in.  (Mumbles grumpily more to himself).  Stupid baths, what so fun about them anyway.

Shizen: (Laughs a little and shakes her head once Yami is out of the bathroom).  5 girls in a bath with nothing on and he complains grumpily and is more excited for the tray of food?  Kura your brother is certainly an odd one.

Kura: (Sighs then laughs a little as well).  Yes, I know but that is just how he is.

Jennifer: (Still refuses to get out of the pile of bubbles while still blushing heavily).

Kairi: (Just sits there a little confused to why Yami had to leave).

Hiki: (Does the same as Jennifer as she gives a look of thanks to Kura).

Kura: (Sighs looking at Jennifer and Hiki).  My apologies for him.  He is a bit clueless and an idiot but you already know this probably.  Perhaps I should stop taking baths with him and even before when Kuro was with us, maybe that broke him.  (Looks like she is thinking of possibilities of Yami being the way he is).

Hiki: No, no it’s fine… I was just taken by surprise really… It’s alright.

Kura: Very well if you are sure.

Shizen: Both of your brothers must have been the same way if you did everything together like you do with Yami now.

Kairi: Kura… Can you tell me a little bit more about your older brother…? He must have been amazing because you always mention him.

Kura: Yes, it was indeed fun… Kuro… When he was younger, he kind of was like Yami though a little wiser.  When he got older, he became someone Yami, and I both looked up to… I guess doing everything together never changed even when we were getting older… It was fun… I guess the reason Yami challenges Tori is because in some ways Tori reminds him of how Kuro was though he was a little more hot headed like the whole family really is… It was a fun time….  (She smiles as she looks up and remembers times with Kuro and Yami).

Yami: (Is in the other room sitting against the wall connecting to the bathroom as he looks up and remembers as well as Kura is talking).  Big bro….

Hiki: (Is silent as she listens to Kura and can hear the subtle sadness in her voice as she is speaking).

Kura: You know I think that’s where Yami learned to fight so hard and not back down from a fight even if it looks hopeless since he was the same way… I wish you could have met him… He really was an amazing big brother and did everything to protect and take care for us so we would have smiles.

Yami: He really was… It’s… Why I want to get stronger… He… Taught me so much… And… And did my best when learning from him… So, I wouldn’t be called a monster as much and… Be more like him instead.

Kura: I know Yami… I know… Just think of the good times like when we went to get ice cream together… Those are simple memories but it’s funny how those stand out the most.

Yami: Yeah, I guess so….

Shizen: (Listens to the two siblings as she thinks).

Kairi: (Looks down a little and Jennifer does the same as they listen).

Yami: Yeah, I guess people looked up to him a little more before things got bad… I guess I wanted the same respect… I don’t care if they feared me… It just meant the saw the real me… But even so… I still wanted to be accepted… Like I was with my big bro and sis….

Kura: (Gets out of the bath and goes into the other room where Yami is and hugs him while saying nothing).

Yami: (Just looks down as he remembers frowning at first and then smiling).  To be accepted like I am here… I don’t care if it’s not everyone… Just one is enough… Just not being alone in the shadows and treated like the monster my dad was again… That’s enough.

Hiki: (Watches the two as she thinks back to when she met Chazz and Tori and it makes her eyes become a bit teary eyed).

Jennifer: (Notices Hiki looking like she is about to cry).  Are you alright Hiki?

Shizen: (Notices as well understanding since she knows some of Hiki’s past mostly with her mother).

Kairi: (Goes over to Hiki with a concerned look as well).

Hiki: Yes, I should be fine… I just have some things going through my mind.

Kairi: You can tell us if something is wrong Hiki.

Jennifer: We are here for you Hiki.

Shizen: Everyone has their past and Hiki has hers though the last time I argued with her mother we argued on how she was treating her little daughter… We are not on good terms I believe.  (Sighs as she remembers).

Jennifer: (Looks at Shizen then Hiki again, still being concerned).

Hiki: Yeah, that was an interesting argument indeed… Almost destroyed my house.  (She gives off a nervous laugh).

Shizen: (Smiles at Hiki).  oh, you heard that part of the argument then?  Well, I believed that you were balance the moment I first heard of you.  People seem to forget spirits are not born corrupt and that there is such a thing as balance light spirits like Hiki.  Only that type of rare spirit can be paired with a balance dark spirit and do great things to balance the world like Nagi and Shiro had done.

Jennifer: I do not think Hiki could ever be corrupted.  She is too bright, and she makes sure everyone is always smiling.  Whoever thinks she is, is very wrong and do not know Hiki at all.

Kairi: She’s too nice to be corrupted.

Shizen: And that’s how the argument started really… Spirits are not born corrupt… Why was that forgotten.  Perhaps it is fear of the unknown… But I am sorry I was of little help to you.  (Looks at Hiki apologetically that she could not help her as much as Shiro could).

Hiki: (She looks down).  No, no it is alright.  You did everything you could… Sometimes I would wish though I wasn’t born with this hair or even given the abilities I have now.

Kairi: But your hair is so pretty.  I wish I could have hair like yours.

Jennifer: And plus, your abilities are amazing Hiki.  If people did not like or feared them then they did not get to know the real you like we have seen so whatever happened think of right now where you are in this little odd group that accepts you for who you are.

Shizen: Hiki your mother may have been a little harsh and took her job a little too seriously… To put it lightly but I think you being here and with Chazz and Tori who accept and support you followed by the group here now I think here you found that love and support that you were not given before.

Hiki: (Begins to break down as her hair falls to cover her face as she disappears from the bath with a stream of light leaving the room).

Jennifer: (Looks for Hiki).  Hiki where- do not go!

Kairi: Hiki come back!

Shizen: Let her go for now.

Yami: (Stands up and starts to look around while saying more quietly to himself).  So you were alone too huh?

Kura: (Looks around as well being concerned).

Jennifer: Hiki come back, it is alright!

Shizen: Child like I have said before letting her go for now, give her time.

Jennifer: Then could you tell us a little more about what happened then?

Kairi: And after that we can give her a giant hug to make her feel better.

Shizen: Hmm I suppose.  (She pauses for a moment to think and look back).  Well, it started with Hiki when she was born with her unusual hair.  When she was little, she was picked on for that but when her powers started to developed people became scared and assumed she was corrupted and that she should be dealt with now before she grew up and became a problem.  Her mother instead of standing by her and nurturing her told her that if she caused those kinds of problem, she would deal with her daughter personally and kept her under very strict rules.  One miss step and that would be enough… I confronted her best I could but that’s what led to our argument… she had no right to treat her own daughter like that… Yes, she is a leader of the light guardians, but she tends to take that job, that responsibly over everything else no matter what.

Jennifer: (Looks down saying nothing thinking of how Hiki is so happy all the time and cannot imagine someone thinking of her like that.  she stands grabbing towel and clothes along with Kairi and go out to look for Hiki, Kura and Yami already had left to do the same thing).

Shizen: (Sighs).  Well, it’s good she found this group.  I believe having them will be what helps her the most.  It was what she needed back then.

Jennifer: (Runs in the halls looking for Hiki with Kairi not far behind and after a little bit they find Chazz and running over to him still with a concerned and worried look).  Chazz we are looking for Hiki, have you seen her?

Kairi: I need to give her a really big hug.

Chazz: No, I have not… Why has something happened?

Jennifer: Well, we were talking and some things about her past and her mother came up.

Kairi: Then she started to cry and then disappeared.

Chazz: Her mother now huh… Very interesting indeed.  Well, I saw her run off towards the forest for a bit.

Jennifer: Thank you, we will head that way then.  It should be easier to find her if in the forest.  (Runs to go outside with Kairi running with).

Yami: (Had been looking for Hiki with Kura outside).  So where do you think she went?

Kura: I’m… Not sure, how about we split up then.

Yami: Sounds good, I’ll shout you if I find her.

Kura: Very well.  (Bolts off in one direction).

Yami: (Goes in the opposite direction hopping from tree to tree and then runs on the ground but he can’t seem to find her).

Shizen: (Is walking outside when she sees Jennifer and Kairi running outside and Chazz right behind them).  Any luck finding her?

Jennifer: No, we were going to check the forest now.

Shizen: (Looks at Chazz nodding and then at the forest).  I did not sense anyone there.  Why not try somewhere else?

Kairi: Alright we will keep looking.  (Runs at a fast pace to another area).

Jennifer: Kairi wait up!  (Runs after Kairi to try and catch up).

Shizen: (Stays there and nods to Chazz as if knowing something the others do not but wanting to keep it secret for now).

Chazz: (Sighs as Hiki gets out from behind him).  You know you will have to talk to them too… Though I know why you broke down Hiki… You can always come to me at anytime… But now there are many people worrying about you….

Hiki: (She hugs Chazz quickly).  I know… I know they do but I just ran to you on impulse… Am I a bother to everyone?

Chazz: (Pets her head).  No, no not at all.  No one is thinking like that… You just need to be able to not rely on just me so much… Even though I always like getting a hug from you….  (He says with a smile to calm Hiki’s nerves).

Hiki: Master….  (She kisses Chazz’s cheek before running off).

Shizen: (Watches Hiki go and sighs).  Well, it is something she will get used to.  This whole little group here cares about her, one thing she never got in the past but probably always wanted and now she does… She is finally cared for, supported and accepted.  She no longer should feel like a burden.

 

Hiki dashes at the speed of light toward Jennifer and Kairi.  She ends up running right for them with no pause in her speed because of her emotions with Kairi running right back into her as a tackling hug.

Hiki: (Rubs her head not expecting that sudden of a impact but she really should have expected it).

Kairi: (Looks up at Hiki and still hugs onto her tightly).  Sorry Hiki, I just really needed to give you a hug so please do not cry.

Jennifer: (Stands stiffly from the impact and joins the hug followed by Kura who joined them).

Hiki: (Just smiles being in the giant hug).  Thank you everyone….

Jennifer: It is fine Hiki, you are a big part of this little group of ours after all.

Kura: It is kind of like a very odd family.

Jennifer: Right and so whatever happened in the past I am sorry.  You did not deserve it but now your here and we will be there to care and support you.

Kairi: (Nods and smiles brightly up at Hiki still in the hug).

Hiki: (Just breaks down as she falls to the floor as everyone holds her).

Tori: (Is watching from a nearby branch).  It’s about time she stopped feeling like burden….

Jennifer: (Continues to hug Hiki as she breaks down to comfort her as Kairi and Kura do the same).

Yami: (Sees the three hugging Hiki and smiles slightly but stays under the same nearby tree in the shade of it).

Shizen: (Is walking with Chazz and watches like Tori is with Chazz standing next to her).

Chazz: This group has helped a lot of people now hasn’t it… Shizen?

Shizen: Yes… Yes, it has… It is like a family of those who do not feel accepted but now they can feel accepted at last… They don’t have to go on alone anymore.  (She laughs a little).  Though it is quite an odd little group if I say so myself but also quite a fun and supportive one.

Chazz: True, it may be strange at times, but we have been able to do so many things that have helped people’s lives.

Shizen: And I think that you and the Child will help many more.  I am sure of it and perhaps bring balance back into the world.  I only wished there was a way for you to become spirits and help that balance for a eternity but the good that you do now I feel will last a very long time indeed and be with the spirits of this group for as long as they live.

Chazz: True that would be nice to be able to spend all the time we can with everyone.  At the moment we cannot even attempt to do that so we will live our lives to the fullest in order to keep the smiles on everyone’s faces and make sure that we care about stay close together.

Shizen: Indeed, and these are lessons to hold in our hearts and memories to hold as well for a eternity.  Right now, let’s enjoy our time.  I mean everyone’s still young and energetic for quite a bit of time still… Well almost everyone.  (She laughs pulling on her own grey hair a little).  Oh well I still look good for my age if I say so myself.  (She laughs more with a grin).

Chazz: Now true, true but you could look like you are our age if the hair was not gray.

Shizen: Why thank you for your kind words, spirits age weirdly I suppose.  Once we get to the age of looking like a young adult, we stop I suppose or at least it slows greatly.  Our minds however still grow and learn as we go on but anyways let’s join the others since Hiki seems to be feeling better now.  (She starts to walk towards Hiki and the others who are still hugging her).

Tori: (Comes down from the tree branch and joins the group).

Chazz: (Ss he begins to join Hiki and everyone else).  So Hiki are you feeling like a burden now?

Hiki: (She just smiles and looks up at Chazz with slight tears in her eyes).  No… I feel at home.

Shizen: Good then keep that feeling and leave the feeling of being a burden in the past.

Jennifer: You are never a burden to us Hiki.

Kairi: And if you ever feel sad again, I will give you an even bigger hug.

Yami: (Still is standing under the shade of the tree stretching his arms a little to relax).  So, do I go out there or something?  Kind of is better in the shade.

Kura: Just get over here!

Yami: (Puts his hands in his pockets and leans on the tree casually).  But I don’t want to get hugged.

Kura: (Sighs).  What am I going to do with you?

Tori: (Pushes Yami into the big group hug).  Come on, you need to get involved with everyone too.

Yami: Fine don’t push!  (Goes into the hug and is squished in the middle of it still looking grumpy about it).

Jennifer: Great now the whole group is in the hug and it will not break apart.

Kairi: (Gives a big smile and nods hugging Tori in the hug and Hiki being in the middle of it all).

Yami: (Isn’t really hugging anyone back just accepting the hug).

Kura: (Hugs Hiki and smiles as well).

Shizen: (Laughs and joins the hug as well).  Well now I have to say this is the first group hug like this but careful may not want to crush Hiki or Yami.

Hiki: (Is laughing from all the hugs towards her).  I think I would be alright with that because everyone is close to me now and I couldn’t be happier.

Tori: Well duh, we were always around silly.  (He messes with Hiki’s hair as he and she laughs a little bit more).

Jennifer: And how about we eat outside and together today.  It is such a nice day so why not.

Kairi: Sis didn’t you say you had paperwork and stuff to do?

Jennifer: Yes… I will do that afterwards… Besides some quality time with friends does sound nice.

 

Everyone sits down in the field letting go of the hug but still they sit next to each other in a circle.

Kura: I guess this is a good time to relax then.

Shizen: Very well but after lunch Child it is best to do your work.  It is a bad habit procrastinate.

Jennifer: (Sighs).  I know, I will after this.

Kairi: Oh, you could tell stories while we are here?  I always like hearing them.

Shizen: Hmm I could tell a few though some are of Nagi and Shiro that I think of… Those were good times.  (She smiles and laughs a little at the more calm and peaceful time when the world was filled with balance).  Yes, quite good and peaceful times indeed but with their own struggles as well.  It can’t be all peaceful.

Chazz: Well do not worry Miss Jennifer I would be happy to help you with your work so no need to worry with that.  I am quite interested in the previous balance spirits, however.

Hiki: Me too, I want to know what they were like.  Maybe Tori could chip in as well!

Tori: I guess I could if you want Shizen.

Shizen: Well, you were Nagi’s student and I have to say it was very interesting in that house.  There was so much fighting… Maybe I caused some of those fights… Alright more than a few but those details are not important.

Yami: I don’t remember too much but when I was little grandpa took us out for ice cream… I think I called him an old man or something at one point.

Kura: Yes… Yes, you did and he kept admitting he was with the grey hair and laughed proudly.

Shizen: That sounds like him and Shiro was a very remarkable light spirit.  They complimented each other, balancing the other out and always made decisions together and that was the final decision… They were very wise though also knew how to laugh so they were not hardly as serious as they were in the counsel room.  It was only when they needed to be.

Tori: Yeah, that sounds exactly like him.  Sometimes I couldn’t tell when to take him serious or not, but he was fun to be around though having him as a teacher made things interesting.

Shizen: Yes, it was indeed interesting.  (She starts to think back to moments and talk about the past with Tori, Kura and Yami helping a little as well.  She smiles at the memories but some she decides not to share as much of the details but smiles just thinking of them).

 

It is around the beginning of the 4th generation but not too early into the era.  It is a calm day with Shizen handling anything needed for Nagi and Shiro so they could have some alone time they had not gotten in quite some time. Shiro is a fair skinned woman dressed in pure white garments and white wavy hair pulled back in a ponytail that almost looks like she glows.  Nagi wears black and has dark grey casual clothing with somewhat short hair but a little in a messy style with a beard though it still looks good for him.  They notice fighting in a lower district street nearby with a crowd shouting sounding like they are yelling at a thief.

Shiro: Hmm that’s odd… We should see if we can resolve whatever this is.  (She grabs Nagi’s arm almost dragging him to where the crowd of angered people are).

Nagi: (As he is being dragged).  Man, I just wanted a day off.  Is that so hard to have?

Shiro: When being head of the counsel yes, it is but were you honestly planning on just walking away without seeing if we could solve whatever is going on?

Nagi: (Gives a nervous look).  No… No of course not, it’s just that shop over there… Was calling my name.

Shiro: Well, we will go after this, now let’s go.  (She continues to drag Nagi to the crowd and starts to get a more serious expression with the people looking angry as they shout).

????: Teach the thief a lesson!

????: Give it back!

????: You should know better than to steal from adults?

Nagi: Hmm seems something is wrong.  Who are they yelling at and who is the poor sap that stole?  Might be a kid from all the “adult” talk….  (As they get closer, they see a white-haired boy being pushed into a pile of garbage).

Shiro: (Pushes through the group to see the young boy better making a barrier so she can push through making the crowd pause and gasp seeing the light and dark council members.  She looks closely at the young boy with dirty white hair and ragged clothes seeing some food in his hand he holds close to him).  Now everyone calm down.  We will pay for whatever he stole but for now let us deal with this matter ourselves. (She kneels in front of the boy crouched against the wall defensively and speaks in a kind tone).  Now little one are you alright?  Were you just hungry and do you have family near here?

????: (Shows clear signs of nervousness and hides the food behind him.  He is fearing for his life as his head seems to be bleeding a bit).  Umm… No mam… My house… Is just me….

Shiro: I see….  (Reaches out to the boy to get a better look at him.  Her voice and the hand reaching to see the cut and to see if he is badly hurt still being gentle and kind).  It is alright, I won’t hurt you.  Now could you tell me your name?  (Her hand starts to glow of light as she places it on the wound on his head).

???: (The boy is still nervous as it shows in his voice).  My… N-name is Tori.

Shiro: Well Tori it is nice to meet you.  (Smiles kindly at Tori as her glowing hand on Tori’s head heals the wound).  Now I assume that you stole food then and that is behind your back.  Don’t worry we won’t take it away so go ahead and eat.  If you need more, we will buy you something else and perhaps take you somewhere to wash off a little.  (Notices how thin Tori looks and frown a little wanting to help him more).

Tori: (Smiles but he is still cautious).  Th-thank you mam… But I wouldn’t want to trouble you… So, I’ll just take this for now… No need to worry about me… I’m sure there are other things you have to worry about….

Nagi: (He sighs as he gives some money to Tori).  Well, if you want to act like that then we will give you the money to get something’s yourself.  That way there shouldn’t be a problem with anyone.  Now will there be any complaints about this? Huh people I’m waiting on you!

Shiro: (Looks at Nagi).  Now don’t be as rude and don’t give him that.  Tori don’t worry yes; we have our troubles but doesn’t everyone… But if you have no one looking after you….  (She looks at Nagi which he gets what that look is right away with a small pout as if begging).  Come on Nagi I am surrounded by dark spirits in our house, can’t there be one more light one, so I feel less outnumbered?  I believe we have enough room.

Tori: Umm… I’m a dark spirit… I’m sorry to confuse you… I’m sorry.

Shiro: (Pauses for a moment looking surprised then pats Tori’s hair and smiles).  Well, quite an unusual color hair for your element but still just the same… Tori would you like to come with us…?  (Looks at Nagi for what he thinks but also looking completely sure of her decision).

Nagi: (He sighs as he holds out his hand for Tori).  If you have nowhere to belong… Then you will belong with us… And I can promise you that we will watch over and protect you with everything we can.

Tori: (Small tears start to form in his eyes).  … Are you sure…?  I may cause you problems… I may be abandoned again….

Shiro: (Sighs and then smiles).  Well little one we do not have a habit of abandoning people though we cannot force you to come with us I ask that you take a chance with us.  Nagi can even train you, but I swear if he teaches you to be as lazy as he is I will kick him out before you Tori.

Nagi: (As soon as Shiro says that he charges into the crowd and bests them easily forcing them back from Tori being angry they treated a small child like this not at all being what they have expected from their city’s people).

Shiro: (Watches Nagi and smiles).  He may be easy going at times, but he has a strong sense of right and wrong.  What they were doing to you was wrong.  When others are having a hard time you help them but anyway Tori will you come with us back home?  I can get you some more then that little amount of food to eat.  You can wash up when we get home.  There is probably a very cute little boy under all this dirt.  (She laughs and pats Tori’s head taking a cloth and wiping his face a little with a kind and warm smile).

Tori: (Is amazed by how fast Nagi is fighting as it seems he is showing off for him).  Umm… If you’re alright with me than… I don’t have a problem with it… Thank you lady Shiro… It means a lot.  (He smiles cutely).

Nagi: (Is finishing the fighting as he sees Shiro petting Tori getting his own warm smile from it).

Shiro: (Hugs Tori).  Daw that was so cute and just call me Shiro.  No need for anything else but our house gets a little… Loud and we have our kids and grandkids visiting for dinner.  That can get rather interesting.  I think we have a room open for you though it is a little smaller than the others.  (She rambles more about things Tori should know if he will be a part of the household and then hears Tori’s stomach growl which makes her laugh).  Well perhaps we should get you some food before I explain all of this.

Tori: (Blushes as he looks down).  Yes… lady-… Yeah Shiro, food would be nice.

Nagi: Well, I’m glad that is all figured out and all, but we still need to grab the food we came here to get Shiro, come on.  I’m not sure how much longer we have to stay in town.

Shiro: Ahh yes, we will need to get a little more then, but do you want me run and grab it?  I will be right back.  (She starts to glow as she stands).

Nagi: If you want to Shiro.

Shiro: Well, I do have the speed in this relationship.  (She smirks and then instantly zooms off into the market at the speed of light leaving Tori to stands beside Nagi).

Nagi: (He sighs).  She always is like that.  Sorry if she makes you feel a bit awkward sometimes, she has good intentions though.

Tori: (Laughs a little bit as he relaxes feeling at ease with them).  I can see that but it’s ok… I’m happy to have a place to belong too.

Shiro: (In a flash of light she comes back with baskets of food handing one to Nagi and a small bag to Tori.  The bag holds a beef sandwich with lettuce, cheese, and a cookie).  I think this should be enough to hold you until dinner.  I hope you like it.  (She pats Tori’s head and smiles).

Tori: (Takes the food with a sparkle in his eyes).  Oh, I will.

Nagi: (He laughs).  True now let’s get home now.

Shiro: (Laughs as well as they start to walk back).  Well, you need to eat.  Your skin and bones now, you need to build up some strength and muscle if you’re going to be Nagi’s student.

Tori: (Gives a confused look).  His… His student?

Nagi: Yeah, you are since you are a spirit under my element so I feel like I must train you to be the best person that you can be alright?

Shiro: Mostly the ability to protect what you hold in your heart, but he better not teach you to take naps in the middle of the day like he does.  Of course, you will have some chores to do around the house if you are going to live with us as well.

Nagi: I’m not that sure but I can certainly promise that I will try.

Shiro: (Sighs and shakes her head).  Oh well, I am just happy to add another member to this family.  I miss when we had little ones in the house.  (She pouts a little then smiles at Tori patting his head again).

Tori: (Gives a confused look).  You had kids before?

Nagi: (Looks to Shiro to explain thinking that was well known).  Umm.

Shiro: Ahh yes, we have 4 all grown up almost.  The 3 boys are dark spirits, our oldest being Kishi, the middle being Izumi and youngest being Kyoda and our daughter is Chikara, our youngest.  Izumi gave us our first grandson Kuro as well.

Tori: I see… Oh I know of that name… Kishi… Some people talk about him by the shelter I… Was staying in… I heard he was great….

Nagi: Oh, he is he!  I taught him most of the things he knows!

Shiro: (Laughs).  Now you don’t need to brag.  You do enough of that after council meetings and at home.

Nagi: hey, hey I think I’m pretty cool and badass and all.

Shiro: Fine have it your way Mr. Badass, our kids are quite skilled though they still cannot surpass us yet.  You will always be number one for now.  (She laughs with a hint of sarcasm in her voice as she plays along).

Nagi: Why of course my dear.  If they did, I would just get better.

Shiro: Though there is someone that does win against you and that would be me.  (She laughs more and kisses Nagi’s cheek while holding his arm as they walk).

Nagi: (Sighs).  Fine, fine you win l guess.  Let’s just get home and get ready to make dinner for our new guest… I wonder of the house is clean enough?

Tori: (Follows behind Nagi and Shiro still being a little bit nervous).  No, no it’s alright… Really don’t need to worry about me.

Shiro: Don’t worry, we always worry, and I think Shizen is there cleaning… Nagi you’re not planning anything with her right?  (She gives Nagi a questioningly expression being suspicious with a rather scary look).  Because if you are expected to be sleeping on the couch tonight.

Nagi: Umm… In my defense… She comes onto me and she is very convincing… I’m sorry Shiro… But no, I’m not planning anything

Shiro: (Sighs and says to herself).  Must I always fight for my husband… Oh well that how it is since-… But still I married him, so I won.  (Has a scary aura around her as she pouts and talked to herself).

 

They reach a large white and grey house being simple having two stories and large rooms downstairs and bedrooms upstairs with wooden flooring.

Nagi: (Ignores the evil aura coming from his wife and guides Tori into the large house).  Well anyway welcome to our home Tori.

Tori: (He still is confused by everything and follows Nagi in with big wondering eyes).

Shiro: (Follows in shaking off her angry mood and smiles at Tori).  We have a room open upstairs for you to stay though it’s a little smaller than the others.  I think it will be fine.  Do you want to take a look?  I can show you and there’s a bathroom across from it so you can clean up before its time to eat.

Tori: (Shakes his head yes as he follows Shiro inside leaving Nagi behind).

Shiro: Oh, and Nagi if you could take the food out so I can start cooking that would help a lot.  I’m going to help Tori get situated.

Nagi: Yes, yes, I do what I am told my dear wife.  (He starts to grab the food and bring it in)

Shiro: Thank you dear.  (She guides Tori upstairs and down a hallway being the 6th room they stop to.  Shiro opens the door to a medium sized room looking like a simple spare bedroom with grey and blue walls and decorations.  It has wooden flooring and a twin sized bed with a window on the wall by the bed.  There is dark wooden desk and other things of that color like a dresser, end table by the bed and a black flower in a vase on the table).  I hope this is alright then.  You will be staying in this room.

Tori: (Looks around like a kid in a candy store just walking around the room and finally laying down on the bed).  No, no it’s amazing!  I haven’t had my own room in a long time after my parents passed away in the war of spirits… I was being raised in a shelter in town… So, I never really had my own room in a while….  (He just lies on the bed looking away from Shiro).

Shiro: I see….  (She looks down a little).  Well, this will be your room now… And you can think of this as your new home.  You don’t have to be alone anymore little one.  (She smiles at Tori sitting on the end of the bed).  And don’t worry about us leaving you… You will not be abandoned.  We will take care of you alright.

Tori: (Breakdown as Shiro is comforting him).  T-thank you Shiro….

Shiro: (Holds Tori comfortingly while petting his head).  Shh it’s alright, this will be your home and family though I hope you can handle such a loud and odd family as ours.  I swear every dinner we have together turns into a food war.  (She laughs a little).

Tori: (Laughs a little bit between the tears).  It’s a-alright… It would be an experience I haven’t had in a l-long time.

Shiro: Well, we are happy to give you those experiences again.  (She continues to pet Tori’s head trying to get some of the dirt out of it seeing it truly is a pure white color).  Are you sure you are a dark spirit Tori?  Your hair is almost as pure white as mine.  (Is thinking of how Tori could be a dark spirit and slowly she comes to a conclusion thinking he’s a very rare spirit indeed).

Tori: (While looking away from Shiro holds up a ball of dark energy that has a faint light energy in it but it is very hard to see).

Shiro: (Looks closely at the ball of darkness and begins to smile).  I see, now I know why.  Nagi will be quite happy seeing your type of darkness and it is very rare indeed.

Tori: (Looks at Shiro with some confusion).  W-what do you mean?

Shiro: It’s balance darkness, it is hard to explain at first, but Nagi will be beyond happy to hear it.  For now, I can show you to the bathroom to clean up before dinner.

Tori: (Looks at Shiro more confused than before but he is feeling to hungry and happy to worry about it.  He sits up and hugs Shiro tightly).  Thank you… I can never repay you for this.

Shiro: (Hugs Tori back and smiles while petting his head).  You can repay us by smiling and being happy, that is all.  No more pain alright and a place to call home again.

Tori: (Shakes his head yes as he heads towards the bathroom).

Shiro: It’s the next door to your left and I will be right back.  I have some old clothes my sons grew out of a while ago, so I am hoping those fit.  (In a flash of light zooms to a door at the other end of the hall).

Tori: (Tenses up as Shiro just speeds right past him).  I think… I will never get used to that but well… Time to get cleaned up.

Shiro: (Is seen as flashes of light going in-between 4 rooms as she quickly looks through some clothes.  Once she is done, she zooms back to in front of Tori with many pairs of mostly black clothes, one pair being black and dark grey another being black with a little blue and the other being black with a little red).  I think these might fit though I don’t think the red suits you as much.  Izumi always did like that color oh and don’t be scared by him when you meet.  His eyes are black and red, but he is friendly once you get to know him.

Tori: (Is still nervous as he takes the clothes).  A-alright… I can’t wait to meet him then and thank you again for the clothes.  I was getting tired of being in these clothes.

Shiro: (Laughs and pats Tori’s head).  I would get tired of wearing worn ones like those as well.  Once you’re all cleaned up come get me and dinner will be ready soon after that.  Like I said I’m sure there is a very cute little boy under all this dirt.  (She laughs more and smiles at Tori kindly).  And maybe one day when you get bigger, I bet you will look very handsome… But maybe not as much as a flirt as Nagi… Please don’t learn that….  (She gets worried about Nagi training Tori after saying this).

Tori: (Gives a confused look but still smiles).  Maybe you’re right… Maybe I will be better than I was before… And there a lot of things I’m not supposed to know isn’t there?

Shiro: You will learn how things work here in time but is there anything you need help with before I go?

Tori: (Looks around).  No, I don’t think so… But trust me I will tell you when I need something.

Shiro: Good then the bathroom is the door right behind you.  If you wash up before dinner starts you can help me with desert ooh, and I’ll let you lick the bowl and spoon even.

Tori: (Shakes his head as he heads into the bathroom).

Shiro: (Smiles and walks back downstairs but stops in the middle hearing Shizen from there).  Hmm she’s early, probably flirting with him to.  (She sighs and shakes her head at her way of jokes).

Shizen: Nagi I missed you.  It’s good to see you, can I have my time with you now?  (She smirks with a small joking pout).

Nagi: (Looks nervous between Shizen and he can tell Shiro is watching so he doesn’t know what to do).  Umm… Hey Shizen… And no not today.

Shizen: Aww no fun I thought we shared you.

Shiro: (Goes on the other side of Nagi holding his arm as she looks over at Shizen).  No, we fought over him, but must you flirt with my husband now?

Shizen: (Grabs Nagi’s other arm with a silly pout).  Aww but we both care for him so why can’t we share him at least.

Shiro: (Sighs).  But Shizen how long must we fight over him?

Shizen: Until the end of time but I can be very convincing to him.  (Motions to her own large chest).

Shiro: Hey no fair and when everyone gets here you better behave.

Shizen: Of course, I promise to not seduce Nagi when guests arrive.  I just can’t promise that afterwards.  (Sticks out her tongue playfully).

Shiro: Do that and your dead.

Shizen: Aww but you say every time but I’m only expressing my feeling with him.  (Kisses Nagi’s cheek and laughs).

Shiro: (Glares and kisses Nagi’s other cheek and they continue pulling at him doing this as if fighting over him that way).

Nagi: Umm I prefer to be with Shiro today… If my opinion matters at the moment.  (While the two keep pulling him).

Shizen: (Pouts but then sighs and smiles).  Fine I understand it is a day for your family so let me at least help with making dinner.

Shiro: (Sighs again and starts help Shizen).  Very well oh and we took in a little boy today while we were out, very adorable to.

Shizen: Oh, you did, I can’t wait to meet him. What happened?

Nagi: We met him in the market nearby where the crowd was getting pretty angry with him because he stole some food though he didn’t have much of a choice.

Shiro: His name is Tori, and he is very adorable indeed.  He lived in the shelter near the market I believe.

Shizen: Well, I look forward to meeting the new member of the family.

Shiro: (Smiles then looks at Nagi and her smile grows).  Oh, and Nagi you remember how you are looking for balance darkness in our kids, but they do not hold that very rare ability you wanted to pass on.

Nagi: Yeah… I got a bit disappointed in the kids when they didn’t have it, but I still love them just the same.

Shiro: I know but they gained other abilities from you that are good as well, but I think I have found a dark balance spirit though.  I don’t think he knows what that is or that he is such a rare kind of spirit yet.

Shizen: (Takes over cooking for Nagi and Shiro so they can talk but smiles at listening to the conversation).

Nagi: (Gets excited).  Really who is it!  When do I meet the person!  When do I teach them the ways of being cool and napping in the middle of the day?

Shiro: (Her smile grows).  You better not teach him how to nap and you already met him.  You just made him your apprentice and brought him into this household today without even knowing it.

Nagi: (Thinks for a second).  Wait really?  It’s Tori…?  Huh I wasn’t expecting that at all….

Shiro: I brought up that he looks so much like a light spirit with his white hair so to prove he is a dark spirit he held out a ball of dark energy.  I saw a very faint hint of light and I can tell he has very good control for his age.

Nagi: (Thinks to himself as he sits down).  Huh if he has good control over it… Then that is good.

Shiro: Yes, and he is quite polite and adorable as well but still he is nervous… What are you thinking dear?  (Sits next to Nagi and smiles at him).

Nagi: I’m not really that sure but if he is a balance spirit then a time for a new balance may be near or it is just a miracle for a newer generation of spirits.  Either way I will do my best to teach him that it is good to always follow in what he believes in.

Shiro: Perhaps the newer generations will be taking over soon though I have a feeling the council will stay.  It’s just having help in that balance is always needed.  For now, let’s cook dinner for the family.  If the time for a new balance is coming, then maybe it can wait until after we have a evening with our family.  I know you will do your best to train Tori, I think it’s just a miracle to run into him like that… Such a gem living on the streets… I’m glad we stepped in.

Nagi: That may be true meeting him might have been fate and I am glad as well.  Yeah, I could use some food in my stomach and I will teach him everything in due time.

Shiro: Very well then let’s get cooking.

Shizen: I already started cooking and besides the three of us make a good team.

Shiro: Is that implying something?

Shizen: (Laughs).  Perhaps but I am not wrong.

 

The three of them cook and joke around until Tori comes down a little before Nagi and Shiro’s children arrive.  Shizen smiles seeing Tori in black and dark grey clothes but let’s Shiro go over to him before she is introduced.

Shiro: (Goes over to Tori with a smile as she pats his head).  There you are dinner is almost ready and I’m glad you cleaned up.  You’re even more adorable though the clothes seem a little baggy.  My apologies but are you ready to eat in a little bit?

Tori: Yeah, I’m ready to eat and these clothes are better than what I was wearing so I really can’t complain.

Shiro: Well if you want you can help me make desert until everyone gets here.  (She walks to the kitchen with Tori and brings him towards Shizen).  Tori this is Shizen.  She is a great friend of mine and a nature spirit.

Shizen: (Has a big grin as she goes over to Tori offering a hand to shake).  Ahh hello there Tori, Shiro told me about you.  It is great to meet you.

Tori: (Shakes Shizen’s hand as he tenses up a bit since he has trouble with people since he has been attacked by people before and just that day).  H-hi madam… Shizen… Nice to meet you too….

Shizen: Good how are you Tori oh and since you’re here you can lick the bowl and spoon.  (She kneels so she is the same height as Tori and lifts a spoon covered in chocolate cake batter offering it to Tori).

Shiro: (Laughs).  You are going to spoil him so much aren’t you?

Shizen: Of course, I must.

Tori: A-alright I guess I will have some than.  (Takes the spoon as he goes and sits down to eats the chocolate).

Shizen: (Stands up and smiles at Tori as she speaks to Shiro).  He’s quite a shy one, it’s very cute.

Shiro: Yes, I think people have not treated him well in the past like we saw today… But here it will be better for him.

Shizen: I see, and could you wake Nagi up then since dinners almost ready?

Shiro: (Laughs).  And I honestly thought he would stay up.

Shizen: (Raises a eyebrow in amusement).  You did?

Shiro: You’re right this is him after all.  (She laughs and goes over to the couch in the living room area where Nagi is having a nap and shakes him a little).  Nagi dear wake up or do you want to go without having dinner?

Nagi: (Gets up quickly).  I’m always up for food and you should know that but yes.  (He stretches).  That was a great nap.

Shiro: (Sighs).  I swear you could sleep all day if I let you and Tori is back downstairs and cleaned up so you can sit at the table with him for a little bit until everyone gets here.  You can get to know your balance student more.  (She laughs a little once again).

Nagi: Maybe I should get to know him more, especially over food, but yeah, I don’t think I would since I would never get the chance to do that at all with you around and Shizen.

Shiro: Shizen and I established a truce for today so don’t worry and Tori is sitting and eating the cake batter… Yes, Shizen is spoiling him already.

Nagi: (He sighs as he gets up).  Well good for the truce since I do want to be with you, and I figured she would.

Shiro: Yes, thank you but now just talk with your student before our kids get here and things get crazy.  (She laughs kissing Nagi as she goes back to the kitchen to talk with Shizen about recent news and things similar that).

Nagi: (Heads back to the table to start talking with Tori).  Hey Tori… You look much better all cleaned up now and those clothes seem to fit… If anything, I’ll just get you some new ones for sure later.

Tori: (He shakes his head as he finishes up the batter).  Yeah, that would be nice.  It feels like I’m in someone else’s body with these clothes on.  Maybe I’m not just used to having them yet.

Shiro: (Yells from the kitchen).  You will get used to it I believe and this week I will go into town to get more clothes for you.  Don’t let Nagi take you.

Shizen: And the bowl I mixed the batter in is here if you want some more chocolate.

Shiro: Shizen don’t spoil his appetite, he needs to eat dinner as well.

Shizen: But he seemed to like it and he’s so thin.  He needs to eat more.

Shiro: (Sighs).  Oh, fine then but that is it until dinner.

Shizen: Thank you.  (She comes in to place the bowl in front of Tori as she smiles at him then walks back to the kitchen).

Shiro: But save some for Kuro when he gets here.  He’s our grandson and a little younger than you I believe.

Nagi: Wait hey don’t you trust my fashion sense Shiro!  I’m pretty sure I would do alright.  (He yells back to Shiro with a pout)

Tori: (He laughs a bit as he eats some more batter)

Shiro: No, it is not that.  It’s just that I am better at it and I would probably go while you start training your student.

Shizen: (Just bursts into laughter).

Shiro: Ooh and perhaps black clothes with a little white in it like you have Nagi.

Shizen: Ooh plus it would go with his hair.

Shiro: It really would.

Nagi: Yes, yes, I can’t really argue about that now, can I?

Shiro: No, you can’t argue with me because you can’t win the argument.  (She suddenly hears a knock at the front door).  Oh, it looks like they are here.  Shizen could you start getting the food on the table?

Shizen: Of course.  (Starts grabbing food).

Shiro: (Goes to answer the door).  Nagi come over here and Tori you can come as well and meet everyone if you would like.

Nagi: Yes, I will be right there, come on Tori.  (Holds out his hand for him).

Tori: (He tenses up from hearing that he was going to meet new people and just goes to hide in his room).

Nagi: (He sighs).  I guess that didn’t work.

Shiro: (Sighs as well).  Well, I will get him later after everyone is inside. 

 

As Shizen is nearby setting the table still and Shiro opens the door seeing Izumi and his family being his wife Hitomi and their son Kuro who is a child a little shorter than Tori.  He has short black hair with red highlights and red eyes with black where the white part should be like Izumi has.  Both are wearing black with a red border.  Kuro’s mother has black wavy hair with dark blue highlights and deep blue eyes wearing a very dark blue dress with a black border being long, so it drapes over her growing stomach easily and a scarf to cover her arms a little.

Shiro: Hello are you ready for dinner oh and Kuro you have grown a little haven’t you?

Kuro: Hey, I guess so.  (He looks around at his surrounding being curious and goes inside to explore the house some).

Shiro: (Laughs).  Alright go ahead and Hitomi I see a second grandchild is on the way.

Hitomi: (Blushes and places her hands on her stomach which is starting to stand out much more).  Umm yes though I think this one will be a girl.

Shiro: (Looks excited).  I can’t wait!

Nagi: (Messes with Kuro’s hair as he approves Izumi and Hitomi with a thumbs up).  Hey what’s new with you two… Well minus the new kid on the way.  I’m excited when he or she gets here!

Hitomi: We are just trying to expand the house a little more for the growing family is all.

Shiro: Great tell us if you need help although does that make us old then with another grandchild?  (She pouts a little and then laughs).

Shizen: You’re not old, I think from how spirits seem to stop aging though your kind of getting grey Nagi.

Nagi: I see… Yeah of anything needs more help to be done than come and just let us know if you need us.  Hey Shizen, even if I get older doesn’t mean I can’t still be awesome.

Shiro: Of course, dear.  (She laughs and kisses Nagi’s cheek).

Kuro: (Comes back from wondering a little as darkness is absorbed into him but only a little having control over it as he uses it to scan the area a little).  There’s another dark spirit in the house?

 

Shiro goes to the door again greeting the rest of Nagi and her kids, letting in Kishi, Kyoda and Chikara.  Kishi having black hair as well and looking alot like his father Nagi as he is wearing black and dark grey looking very strong.  Kyoda is wearing black with a little blue being a little shorter and slenderer then Kishi.  Chikara looks a lot like her mother but with her hair down and glasses with a book in her hand to read later). 

Shiro: And here are the rest of my children.  How are you doing?

Chikara: I am fine and thank you for the books last time.  They were really good.

Shiro: Not a problem, what about you boys?

Kishi: (Sighs).  I have been busy with my training and my knight duties even though they get kind of tiring sometimes.  I just want to relax at home.

Kyoda: Well, you were always the lazy type, which is why I question why you decided to become a knight.  (He holds his arms out as he stretches from the walk back home).  I have been alright as well.  I just have been working with some friends in the light side.

Izumi: Oh, have you now?  Huh I guess I have been just with Hitomi since I can’t really adventure as much anymore but I wouldn’t trade the moments I have now.

Hitomi: (Is holding Izumi’s arm).  Thank you sweetie and I guess we will be even more busy with another kid.  I love them so much, so I really don’t mind it at all and I’m pretty sure it’s a girl.  Kuro what do you think about having a little sister?

Kuro: (Shrugs).  As long as she doesn’t start taking my stuff, I guess it’s alright… Or as long as she asks, I guess.  If I’m a big brother does that mean I protect her like you said?

Hitomi: Of course, being a big brother means you look after the younger ones.

Kuro: Ok I guess I can do that.  (Runs off again following the new darkness he senses in the house and being curious).

Shiro: (Laughs).  I think he will do well at that role, and if he needs advice, he can just ask Kishi.

Chikara: Well, he is the oldest but kind of got the laziness thing from dad.

Shiro: (Laughs more).  Very true, I guess they have that and many things more in common.  (Pats Nagi’s shoulder as she laughs more).

Nagi: (Pouts a bit as he kisses Shiro’s head).  Hey just become I’m lazy doesn’t mean that I’m not cool and awesome!

Kishi: Yeah, dad has the right idea!

Izumi and Kyoda: (Both sigh of how silly the two are acting).

Chikara: (Sighs as well).  Well, I guess they have that in common to.

Shiro: True but at least they can be serious when it’s needed.

Shizen: True and dinner is ready when you are ready for some.  Come to the table when you’re done.

Chikara: Oh, aunty Shizen, it’s nice to see you to.

Shizen: And you as well and I am happy to know that there will be more children.  Kishi, Kyoba I hope you find you special one out there to, Chikara you are alright since you became a adult recently.

Chikara: Thank you for leaving me out of it.

Nagi: Doesn’t mean you can’t make someone’s heart flutter Chikara.

Kishi: Well, I know I will find someone since I meet a lot of people because of job as a knight.

Kyoba: There is someone who interested me, but I will work on it myself without family intercept. 

Izumi: Why?  Because you don’t trust us to give you good advice?

Chikara: I get enough advice from romance book that mom gave me.

Shiro: (Smiles).  I’m happy to help, and when you find someone don’t be afraid to bring them over like Izumi was.

Hitomi: I umm wasn’t there a food fight then?  (She looks at Nagi, Kishi, Izumi and Kyoda when saying this).

Chikara: (Sighs).  That happens a lot doesn’t it…?

Shiro: (Sighs as well).  But they must remember they are the ones who will clean up.

Nagi: Umm… Yeah, I can’t really excuse that.  All you need to know is that we tend to get along… Until food comes along, then it can be a free-for-all.

Hitomi: (Giggles).  I think I should know that by now.

Shizen: Well, speaking of food let’s sit at the table and have something to eat before food starts to fly.

Hitomi: (Looks around not seeing Kuro).  But… Where did Kuro run off to?

Shiro: He mentioned he sensed another darkness in the house… Oh he must have meant Tori.

Hitomi: (Gives a confused look).  Tori?

Chikara: (Tilts her head in confusion).  Who is that?

Kishi, Izumi and Kyoba: (Look confused as well).

Nagi: Ohh yeah you all will meet him in a little bit.

 

Meanwhile upstairs Kuro is following the trail of darkness he senses to a door down the hallway.  He opens it to a blue and grey room looking curious but also a little cautious.

Kuro: Huh I guess this is where it is coming from.  (He sees Tori on the bed).  Hey are you what’s causing the new darkness?  (As he is absorbing a very small amount of darkness when following the trail).

Tori: (Looks at the unknown boy with eyes that are red and black that he has never seen before).  The cause of what?

Kuro: (Walks in looking at Tori as he absorbs a little darkness from Tori to make sure).  Yeah, you are, I guess you’re new here or something?

Tori: Umm yeah, I just here today.

Kuro: Oh, ok I’m Kuro… And sorry if I scared you or anything.  I wanted to see what was making that new darkness energy around here.  I guess that was you but good to meet you.  What I can tell your pretty cautious, shy and… (As he absorbs a little more able to tell what Tori is feeling).  Scared?  Huh I guess I get that a lot when people meet me.  (Shrugs casually).

Tori: No, it’s not that I fear you… I’m just nervous with new people….

Kuro: Oh, ok well I guess after a while you get used to it.  Everyone here can be a crazy… Oh and here is your energy back.  I tend to take a little sometimes.  (As darkness he had taken from Tori goes back to him).

Tori: (Chuckles a little bit).  I was wondering why I was feeling weaker and a bit sleepy.  You absorb energy?  (He gives a confused look).

Kuro: Yeah, it’s an ability my dad has.  I have it too, but I can use it more to track down dark energy and can tell them apart.  It comes in handy, I guess.  It was kind of hard to get used to at first, but I can give energy back so it’s fine.  I do get stronger when I absorb more.

Tori: (Is interested as he looks up with small dark wings behind him that he doesn’t notice for a second when the darkness taken is transferred back into him).  Ohh sounds very interesting and seems pretty cool.  Why would it be scary?

Kuro: (Notices the wings but doesn’t say anything thinking that’s what his power is and shrugs casually.  He puts his hands in his pockets and leans against the wall).  Because if me or my dad absorb to much you get weak or maybe even die if it’s done too long.  Also, a lot of people think my eyes are scary too but what can you do about it?  (He shrugs again and sighs).  I don’t think I got your name.

Tori: (Realizes this as well knowing he was just chatting with him casually).  Oh yes, my fault.  My name is Tori and just until recently I was living on the street but still nice to meet you

Kuro: Oh, I see, no problem, Tori.  So, you were taken in by my grandparent, cool.  You look hungry so are you going to go downstairs to eat?  If we don’t go now, it will probably be made in to some kind of fight.

Tori: (Gives a confused look).  A fight over what?  I do feel hungry, I just want to be ok with everyone… You can guess I get a bit nervous cause I didn’t have the best history with people after my parents died… But I will change that because I want to get stronger….

Kuro: Well, if Nagi’s going to train you you’ll get a lot stronger!  He’s been training me to become a combat spirit like he is and uncle Kishi.  We tend to fight a lot for no reason.  It’s kind of fun and if your nervous just follow my lead.  I’ll teach you how to survive this place.  (He grins and holds out his hand to help Tori get up so they can go).  Come on, they’re not that scary once you know them, just crazy.

Tori: (Takes Kuro’s hand).  Yeah, I know they are already… But I know this is my home where I belong too.  I can feel it

Kuro: (Pulls Tori up and starts to walk back down the hall he came from).  Good you seem cool so glad you think you belong.  Now come on before they get into a fight without us eating anything.  (Puts his hands in his pockets as he walks back looking back to see Tori is following)

Tori: Yeah, let’s get going to everyone.  Don’t want a destroyed house before dinner.  I am sure that will probably more than likely happen.

Kuro: Yeah, that will probably happen again, and I’ll introduce you to everyone.  My dad’s pretty easy to spot he has my eyes, and my mom wears a lot of blue.  She’s carrying my sister… well she says it’s a girl, so I’ll just take her word for it.  (He shrugs).

Tori: (Shakes his head as he follows the boy).

Kuro: But one thing’s for sure if I’m a big brother it’s my job to protect them so I promised I would protect them with everything I got… It’s why I want to become stronger.  (Gives a serious expression as he looks down at his own hand and thinks.

 

After they make it downstairs, he leads Tori to the dining area going over to Hitomi who is standing next to Izumi).

Hitomi: (Smiles at Kuro).  Oh, Kuro I was looking for you.

Kuro: Yeah, sorry about that.

Hitomi: Oh, and I see you made a friend, you must be Tori.  Nagi and Shiro told us about you.  (Everyone can tell that she is a compassionate of person who cares a lot about kids and is very kind, caring and protective of them.  That is shone through her kind smile she gives to Tori as she pats both him and Kuro’s heads).

Tori: Ohh um hi there… Umm yes, I’m Tori.  (As Hitomi is patting his head still).

Nagi: (Sighs as he taps Tori’s back).  Come on, I think you have more than that to say.

Hitomi: (Kneels down to Tori’s height a little stiffly though because of her stomach so tries to make it more comfortable).  It’s alright, go ahead.  You’re accepted here and everyone’s very kind.

Kuro: (Smiles and stands by his mother and father).

Tori: No, no you don’t need to do that for me… Please stand back up I don’t want to be a bother to you….

Nagi: (He and everyone else just smiles at Tori).

Hitomi: Don’t be silly, it’s my choice do this for you because I wanted to see you without you looking up at me.  I can see that you’re a kind little boy who cares about others more than yourself.  It is a good thing to have and I think you will be great friends with my son.  If someone goes through doing something for you it’s because they want to and know you would do the same for them.

Shiro: (Pats Izumi’s back with a big smile).  I see why you fell in love with her and married her so quickly.

Hitomi: (Pets Tori’s head then hugs him with a kind smile).  You will never be a bother here so don’t worry.

Izumi: (He smiles back at Shiro).  Yeah, now you know mom….  (He looks back at Hitomi with a warm feeling).

Tori: (He tensed up in the hug but as it goes on, he begins to relax a little bit.  He gets out of the hug as he smiles at Hitomi).

Hitomi: (Pats Tori’s head and stands back up again).  There we go, you have a very nice smile, and I am sure you will grow up to be very handsome like Shiro mentioned.

Shizen: I thought that to but dinners ready so whenever you’re ready come eat.

Chikara: (Is already at the table reading a book).

Hitomi: Oh, great I was getting hungry oh and Tori you can sit with Kuro if you like.

Kuro: (Shrugs).  Why not, come on Tori.  (He starts to head to the table).

Tori: (Shakes his head yes as he heads to the table with a very slight blush).  Yes.

Nagi: (He and his sons all head to the table as Izumi helps Hitomi stand back up and get to the table).

Hitomi: I’m fine sweetie, it’s just a little more difficult, I guess.  (Kisses Izumi’s cheek as she sits next to him with Kuro and Tori next to them at the end of the table.  Nagi with everyone else starts to seat themselves each taking as they please a little greedily with the food, chatting and laughing).

Kuro: (Starts offering food to Tori as he takes some for himself).  Here if you don’t take it, it will pass right by you.  (Some bread is thrown his way but everything being thrown seems random and hectic.  He just shrugs like it’s an everyday thing and breaks the bread in half giving the other half to Tori).

Tori: (Begins to take his food as fast as he can getting food on his plate).

Nagi: (He and the boys begin to fight about it as they eat and as dinner goes on and everyone is eating some arguments start up between Kishi, Izumi and Kyoba.  Someone then ends up throwing food and a fight begins).

Chikara: (Continues reading her book silently trying to ignore the food fight by putting up a barrier). 

Shizen: (Sighs).  And we did all that cooking to.

Shiro: (Sighs as well turning to Nagi).  Dear please don’t join in again.  (Sees Nagi is already throwing food towards his sons and sighs).  Nevermind.

Kuro: (Finds it very hard not to join in grabbing a spoonful of mash potatoes).

Tori: (Is on the sidelines watching the fighting go on quietly).

Nagi: I’m sorry dear but I got to put them in their place!

Kishi: Oh, is that right, Bring it on dad!

Kyoba: I don’t see why I must join in this but so be it!

Izumi: (Is just throwing food since the whole fight started).

Kuro: Get down!  (He gets Tori to duck pushing him a little as food goes his way.  Getting 4 spoons full of potatoes with a smirk he pulls them back and aiming for all 4 of them hitting his dad head on and barely hitting Nagi and Kishi but missing Kyoba).  Dammit, I missed one!

Tori: (Gets down as the food and silverware just barely passes him and just takes his plate with him as he eats).

Kuro: (Ends up joining the fight more fighting with his own dad mostly as he grins).  Come on, that all you got!

Hitomi: (Is watching food fly from both her husband and son hiding a little so she doesn’t get hit as Shizen joins the fight being hit by Kishi).

Kuro: (Looks down to Tori who hides as he eats).  Come on Tori you should join, it’s fun!

Tori: (Is watching the fight go on as he thinks about it before throwing some of the potatoes at Nagi and it lands in his hair).

Nagi: (Looks at the food in his hair as everyone begins to laugh all at once not expecting Tori to join in so fast)

Kuro: (Smiles and pulls Tori up teaming up with him and throwing food as he laughs.  He fits bumps with his new friend with a grin).  Come on!  We can take them all out!

 

And the dinner goes on like this for some time making an interesting welcome to the family for Tori, everyone smiling and having fun.  A little time has passed, and Tori had started his training with Nagi and some of his sons who help with the training when they are around like Kuro’s father Izumi since Kuro has been training alongside Tori.  Kuro starts training more with Nagi and Kishi though since Izumi must care for his wife Hitomi having had her second child Kura.  She has the same eyes and hair color as Izumi and Kuro but her hair seeming more like Hitomi’s style as they take care of her inside.
Kuro: (Is striking a target and shadow dummy with new skills he is learning being determined to get stronger as Nagi takes his nap in-between the lesson.  He refuses to take the nap or even stop for a moment training every moment he has even when physically tired to the point where he has reached his limit like he is now using his ability to absorb shadows just so he can keep going).

Tori: (Is doing the same as Kuro but he is attacking in a speedy fashion much different from how Kuro is fighting with his katana blade that Nagi had gotten him from a blade smith in town).

Kuro: (Has more strength but less speed to his swings using a bigger sword almost looking like a two-handed broad sword but to fit his size).

Shiro: (Is back from her shopping with many bags as she sees the training going on in the backyard.  Seeing Nagi resting by a tree she goes over to him).  How is their training going?  I see they are working hard.

Nagi: (Wakes up from a light relaxing nap).  Oh umm… The way the two of them fight is vastly different from each other where Kuro relies on strength while Tori does have the strength to back up his speedy attacks, so they hit pretty much the same with the impact.

Shiro: I see… And I see you are napping with Shizen?

Shizen: (Opens her eyes and smiles).  Well, I do not see the problem with just laying here.

Shiro: (Sighs).  Well… I suppose… As long as you’re not up to something.

Shizen: (Laughs).  No, not until later.

Shiro: (Sighs again).  At least you are honest but anyways I am glad they are determined to get stronger.  With Kuro he keeps mentioning that he wants to protect his sister with all he has and that’s why he is working so hard.  I think Tori wants to protect his new home… Has he shown a hint of the balance darkness power… I know he holds… I could see a light hidden in the darkness of his element… I know it’s there.  (Looks at Tori as he trains with Kuro as she says this).

Nagi: (Sighs with Shizen’s comment).  True when someone has a goal to reach for, they do everything they can in order to achieve no matter the challenge and no matter how hard they have to push themselves.

Shiro: I see and perhaps the balance in him will develop when he meets the new light balance spirit he is paired with.

Shizen: But until then I think they should have a snack to keep up their strength up.  They are probably at their limit soon.

Shiro: True but they will keep going.  (Shouts to Tori and Kuro to get their attention).  It’s time for a snack!  Why not take a break!

Kuro: (Breathes heavily just being done with a strike).  I’m… Almost done… I need to get stronger… Ao just a little more….  (He looks exhausted using his sword stabbed into the ground to lean on so he can gain the strength to stand again).

Tori: (Is doing the same except he is barely standing up right while still trying to swing his sword).

Nagi: Food is always a good medicine for a tired soul now isn’t it Shiro?  You always gave me some snacks after a training session when we were kids.  It was quite nice to be honest.

Shiro: Yes, it is, I can get some medicine as well… But they should stop before they get seriously hurt… At this point there barely strong enough to strike their target.

Kuro: (Stiffly gets back on his feet and readies his sword to strike the target again but he is still out of breath).  Hey… Tori the… One who can’t… Get up loses and… I’m not planning on falling… Any time soon.

Shiro: And yet… They keep fighting.

Shizen: (Nods watching both Tori and Kuro closely).  Yes, they are determined.

Nagi: Yes, I told you that people with a goal get quite stubborn and even more if there is an opponent to beat.  (He laughs for a little bit).

Tori: (Heavily breathing as well).  I… Don’t either… Kuro bring it… On.  (Readies his sword as well).

Kuro: Good… Then at… Least it’s a challenge.  (He grins and starts to attack the target again with everything he has yelling as he strikes to make the strikes stronger).

Shiro: (Sighs).  I guess this is going to go on for a while.

Shizen: (Laughs).  It looks like it.

Shiro: (Sighs again but smiles as she sits under the tree as well).  Hmm I wonder which one will fall first if they have made it a competition.

Shizen: Hmm it’s hard to say.  They both seem equally determined.

Tori: Wouldn’t want it any other way… Let’s go….

Kuro: (Charges at a target with determination forcing his body to keep the momentum going using the heavy sword to swing and strike at full force but can tell it’s taking a toll on his muscles but ignores it just to keep going).

Tori: (Keeps his speed going and as he strikes in multiple angles across the target leaving slashes of dark and light energy on it being pushed past his normal limits)

Nagi: (Notices Tori’s attack on the target).  Well then, something interesting is happening.

Shiro: (Looks as well as Shizen at the attacks being interested).  I knew it was in him.

Shizen: Indeed, it looks like there is a new generation of balance as you said.

Shiro: I look forward to meeting the light balance of this generation then.

Nagi: As do I… As do I… Things are about to get a lot more interesting.  If we have met him now, I wonder about the light spirit though.

Shizen: There was a little girl who is quite interesting.  The head of the light guardian’s Yuzuki, her daughter has half black and white hair, but she is still very young.

Shiro: Hmm I see, I cannot be too sure, if she’s too young and her powers are not developed well.  It may have to wait a little then.

Nagi: Well, we can’t be too sure unless we meet her right, or you meet her Shiro since I’m guessing you would have better time talking with her?

Shiro: Yes, I will speak with Yuzuki after the next council meeting about meeting her daughter and if it goes well perhaps, I will have a student to train as well.  Once they have their individual skills to a certain level, we can train them to work together to create a balance like we make.  (She creates a ball of light in her hand bringing it towards Nagi so he can do the same with darkness to combine the energy).

Nagi: (He creates a ball of dark energy as the two orbs get closer together.  Little lines of energy begin to combine the two into a big swirl of powerful energy).  It would be good if all things worked out well.

Shiro: Yes, and I am sure they will in time but I do think struggles will come before that and that’s why this new generation should prepare and be strong.  I know they will make it through those.  (She kisses Nagi’s cheek as she looks at the ball of light and dark energy in each other’s hands and joins their hands together with the energy around it).

Shizen: (Looks down as she thinks of what struggles could possibly happen but decides that it is too early to figure out what the future holds).

Kuro: (The training continues with both becoming more exhausted but both refusing to fall giving it all they have.  Having to stop for a moment he breathes heavily and his body shaking from the strain on his muscles.  He sticks his sword into the ground to help support himself as he struggles being on his knees to get back on his feet).  No… I’m not… Done yet, I’m… Not giving up just… Yet.

Tori: (Is exhausted as well as he places his sword in the ground as well.  He starts to just hold that position to breathe as all his muscles are screaming out to him).

Kuro: I’m… Not giving… Up.  (Struggles to his feet but only for a second before stumbling and falling face first.  He still struggles, forcing his body to move to try and get back up.  His hands on the ground slowly push his body upwards from the ground).  I’m… Not done….

Tori: (Pulls his sword out of the ground and tries to strike the target but misses and falls as well).  Looks… Like it might… Be a tie… For now.

Kuro: (His struggles fail, and he falls back where he was before but fists clench still struggling with the exhaustion).  No… I need… To get stronger… So, I can protect… My sister no matter what.

Tori: (Tries to get back up as well but with failed efforts).  I need… Protect… My new home… At any cost….

Kuro: (Looks at Tori and nods an understanding while still on the ground not able to get up as he breathes heavily).  Looks… Like we… Have that in… Common and we are… Evenly matched.

Tori: Yeah… I guess… We do… Kuro.  (He breathes heavily still holding his sword in a tight grip).

Kuro: (Is still holding his as well and laughs a little looking at a shadow and trying to absorb its darkness so he can gain his strength back faster.  He also reaches a hand towards Tori with darkness coming out of his hand and flowing to Tori so he can share the energy).  Here… You could… Use some too I… Think.

Tori: (Takes the loose strands of dark energy as it begins to pour into him).

Kuro: (Rolls onto his back a little sprawled out).  Well, I guess a small… Break wouldn’t hurt….

Tori: A nap… Would as well for now… Wouldn’t… It.

Kuro: Maybe… And, once I can get up, I’ll say hi to my little sister.  (He laughs a little).  It’s funny… Now that I’ve met her, I want to protect her and any other siblings I get even more… I need to protect them no matter what… I am the big brother after all.

Tori: (He laughs a bit even though it hurts a little).  Yeah… I know what you mean… I have a new home for me… A new place to belong too… I will do everything I can to keep everyone safe.

Kuro: Yeah, same here so let’s promise that we keep that goal no matter what… And sacrifice all we can to make them safe… Is that a deal?  (Lifts his hand stiffly in a fist towards Tori for a fist bump as he grins).  We both protect what we care about most and if one is no longer able to… The other does the same and protects what they fought for… Promise me that.

Tori: (Lifts his arm and fists bumps Kuro back).  Didn’t even need to say it… Of course, I would… Now let’s get stronger.

Kuro: (Grins and both help each other up so they can go back to training being even more determined than ever).

 

Another moment further in time, Tori and Kuro now young teens and still training to become even stronger.  Kuro’s little sister Kura looks about almost 6 with her long black with red hair down and bangs just above her red and black eyes looking focused on her book.  She reads on the couch being very smart for her age but her physical strength not as strong.  It is another day with a family dinner, Izumi and Hitomi already there and sitting next to Kura as she reads and Tori and Kuro outside.
Hitomi: (Snuggles up to Izumi and sighs looking at Kura read).  It seems like they grow up so fast don’t they?

Izumi: I guess so, doesn’t seem like they are kids anymore.  Well Kura seems to not be one either though she is technically.

Hitomi: Indeed, she is very smart for her age and I think she got that habit from Chikara.  Kuro is getting quite tall and strong as well… Their all growing up.  (Kisses Izumi’s cheek as she smiles).  But I wish they would stay little just a little longer… But that is wishful thinking… But Izumi… I umm relating to little ones… There’s something I need to tell you.  (She looks down and blushes).

Kura: (Is just reading by her side but listening to her parents a little as well).

Izumi: (Looks in confusion but also in excitement).  Wait… You don’t… Mean… Really?

Hitomi: I was feeling a little sick lately and went to Shiro since she’s the best healer I know… Izumi… Do you mind if our family gets a little bigger again?  (She looks up at Izumi with a big smile up at him as she places his hand on her still flat stomach while she kisses his cheek)

Izumi: (Smiles hugely).  Of course, I don’t mind, I’m excited now!

Hitomi: That’s great!  I can’t wait either… It’s still early… But I think it will be a boy and… There’s something special about him… I already know it… Not that Kuro and Kura are not special, it’s just… I feel there’s something different about this little one… I can’t explain it but I know I will protect all 3 and care deeply for them no matter what.  (She looks outside at Kuro, then at Kura beside her and then down at her stomach with a smile as she places a hand over Izumi’s hand that is still placed on her stomach and holds it).

Izumi: (Can’t help but smile and tear up a little bit as he just hugs Hitomi since he is greatly happy right now).

Hitomi: (Hugs Izumi back as she snuggles up to him enjoying the moment).

Kura: (Looks up from her book at her mother and father and smiles slightly).

Kuro: (Comes back with Tori from training outside for a moment seeing his mom and dad snuggling on the couch).  Huh did something happen?

Kura: (Looks at Kuro and smiles).  Little brother coming.

Kuro: (Looks surprised and then gets a big grin).  Really… Wow… It looks like I have even more to protect huh Tori?  Means I’ll have to train even harder now.  (Can’t help but grin even more as he says this).

Tori: I guess so, but you would have been fighting that hard anyway so won’t make much of a difference.  I still won’t let you get that far ahead of me.

Kuro: I know, then it wouldn’t be a challenge.  Right now, I think I’m going to get some water so hold on.  (He goes into the kitchen).

Shiro: (Walks in behind Tori with Nagi seeing Izumi and Hitomi on the couch holding each other close and gets a big smile).  I see she told him then?  (Turns to Nagi to explain).  I guess I did not tell you, but we are going to have another grandchild from Izumi and Hitomi.

Nagi: (Looks confused but then looks at Izumi and understands right away when seeing how they are cuddled up together on the couch).  Ohh I understand that, congratulations to you both!

Hitomi: (Still has a big teary smile).  Thank you.

Kuro: (After grabbing a plate of food and offering some to Tori).  Yeah, can’t wait!  I hope it’s a boy, that would be cool.

Kura: (Looks at Kuro walking towards him and reaching up to pull on both of his and Tori’s ear).  What wrong with girls?

Kuro: Ow hey I didn’t mean anything by it let go!  (Tries to pull away but Kura has a tight grip).

Tori: Now what about me!  What did I do?  (Feels the slight pain from the tug)

Kura: … I just like your ear, so I want to pull it to… I can fix both of your hair make it pretty.  (She lets go of Tori’s ear).

Kuro: (Sighs still rubbing his ear).  Ok I guess I have no choice just don’t want a bow in my hair.

Kura: Bows pretty.

Kuro: Fine.  (Sighs again then shakes his head with a small laugh).

Tori: I’m just happy that it was over and done with.  I don’t really care what you do with my hair as long as it goes back to normal afterwards.

Kura: (Nods and grabs both Kuro and Tori away to do their hair).

Shiro: (Shouts to Tori and Kuro as she laughs).  Good luck you two and make sure to come back and show us what happens to your hair.  I remember Nagi being dragged with her and he ended up with 10 bows in his hair.  (She pats Nagi’s back as she continues to laugh).

Kuro: … I may have made a mistake here… Can I run?

Kura: (Gives a serious look as she pulls both of them).  No.

Kuro: (Sighs).  Fine just don’t pull my ear again.

Tori: (Begins to look worried).  I think I may go hide after we are done doing this.

Nagi: (Sighs).  Yes, you may want to.

Izumi: (He isn’t paying much attention to anything as he is in his own happy moment with Hitomi).

Kuro: Well only one thing to do.  (He pushes Tori out of the way, so Kura lets go and so that he is the only one who has to go through with bows in his hair as he is still pulled away looking back at Tori).  Run, Tori go!  Don’t worry about me, save yourself!

Tori: See ya!  (He gets away by going into a shadow form to escape to the outside).

Kuro: (Is dragged away but smiles).  Well at least we both don’t have to go through with this.

Kura: (Stops once upstairs looking at Kuro).  Kuro… Can I ask question?

Kuro: (Gives a curious look).  Yeah, go ahead, what’s up?

Kura: It just that you always want to protect me because you the old brother… so if I go to be a old sister that mean I get to protect to?

Kuro: (Smiles and hugs Kura).  I will protect both of you, ok?  Don’t worry, I will protect both of you with everything I have… I promise no matter what.

 

A little time has passed, and Hitomi stomach starts to grow as time goes on but something is wrong this time. As she goes further into the pregnancy, she starts to weaken first hiding the weakness but now it is clear becoming very pale at times.  This time Hitomi passed out and Izumi rushed her to Shiro to figure out what is wrong.  He and his kids are in a sort of waiting room at a office for healing.  Shiro has Izumi insisting on staying with Hitomi but he was told to stay and wait as he paces the waiting room finding it hard to keep still. Kuro and Kura and sitting on chairs next to him looking down saying nothing for a long time.  Tori and Nagi are there as well but not the rest of Nagi’s children being not able to come by until later.
Kuro: (Continues to look down but then looks at Izumi as he paces back and forth looking very worried seeing how it is starting to get to Kura).  Dad… Calm down.

Kura: (Looks at Izumi as well).  Everything going to be ok… Right?

Izumi: (Is still walking all around).  I know it will be, but I can’t help but worry more and more with how much time has passed by.

Kuro: All we can do is wait now… I know both of them will be ok… They have to be.  (He looks down as he has an arm around Kura for comfort).

Shiro: (Comes into the waiting room with Shizen right behind her both smiling but can tell there is sadness in their eyes).  Sorry for the long wait.

Kuro and Kura: (Both stand quickly once seeing Shiro wanting to know what is going on looking worried as well).

Izumi: (Rushes over to Shiro).  Is she alright?  Is Hitomi alright!

Shiro: I umm well we want you to come with us if you please… It will be explained on the way.

Kuro: (Starts to walk over wanting to come with and Kura follows him).

Shiro: No Kuro… Just Izumi for now….

Shizen: (Is looking down from the start while saying nothing).

Kuro: (Looks at Izumi still being even more worried and wanting to go too).  … Dad?

Izumi: (Looks down).  Just… Wait for me Kuro and take Kura home….

Kuro: (Still looks worried but then looks at Kura and sighs knowing he’s right).  Let’s go Kura… We will wait at home.

Kura: B-but….  (Looks at Izumi being just as worried as well as Kuro grabs Kura’s hand to lead her away).

Shiro: (Looks at Nagi and Tori).  You two should go as well…. This visit is only for Izumi for now.  (Looks at Nagi and he can see the sadness in her eyes not well hidden by a smile).

Tori: But… But….  (Tries to get up but Nagi stops him).

Nagi: Fine we will head home now… See you later then.  (He begins to leave with Tori as they both look worried as well).

Shiro: Good now Izumi please come with us.  We will explain on the way but… It’s not good news.  (She opens the door for Izumi to follow them).

Shizen: (Continues to look down unable to look at Izumi).  I wish it were, but I gave her some herbs that should help for now.

Izumi: (He keeps looking down as he just listens while they are walking).  … I know….

Shiro: (Starts to explain as they walk).  Now the problem that is causing the weakness is actually the child she is carrying.  It has your ability of taking darkness like Kuro and Kura have but there is something different with this little one… His powers are developing in the womb and are not being controlled.  What’s different between Kuro and Kura and this one is that this child can’t seem to give the energy back, so he has been taking the dark energy from his mother this whole time.  It has just now has been noticed because the child is developed more being a little further in the pregnancy now.

Shizen: The child in her has a much stronger ability, perhaps even stronger than yours.

Izumi: I see….  (Looks down).  Can’t there be a way to help her… Please?

Shiro: The only way to save your wife is if we terminate the pregnancy so it’s a choice.  We could put a seal in place to stop the dark energy draining into the child but… That will kill the child, or we keep things the way they are going… And then… The probability of your wife surviving labor is very low… About 10 percent at most.  (She looks down and away so he face and sad expression is hidden from her son).

Shizen: Also, if the pregnancy is terminated your wife will most likely not be able to have any more kids.

Izumi: Did you tell Hitomi yet…?

Shiro: Yes… We have….

Shizen: She sent us to get you because she wanted to see you and so she could be alone for a little bit before you came to see her.  (They stop at a door where Hitomi is).  She is in this room we will let you two talk and stay out here.

Izumi: Alright then….  (He walks into the room).

Shiro: I’m sorry….  (She whispers as Izumi walks in).

Hitomi: (Is sitting on the bed facing the window and away from Izumi saying nothing.  She just is staring out and then looking down at her stomach with a sad expression).

Izumi: (He just walks in silently and looks at his wife through the reflection in the window as the door closes behind him).

Hitomi: (Smiles slightly and places a hand on her stomach while looking down at it).  There, there… It’s alright… I could tell you were strong from the moment I knew you were here… It’s alright… And I know you will grow up to be strong… Sure you can’t control yourself very much now… But I don’t blame you at all so it’s fine… You just will have to train harder than others that’s all….

Izumi: Hitomi… Are you sure…? The kids would lose their mother now… I would lose my wife… My best friend… I don’t want to lose you….

Hitomi: (Frowns as she looks down in guilt while getting teary eyed).  I’m… so sorry… I can’t do it… It’s asking me to kill one of my children so I can live… I can’t do it… And… This one… There’s something about him… I know he will do great things when he grows up… Sure he may seem hopeless now… But I believe he will do great things… It’s hard to explain but… I just can’t do it… Please understand… Please try not to be to upset with me… I’m so sorry.  (As she breaks down into tears).

Izumi: (Reaches out for his wife so he can hold her).  … Hitomi… I fell in love with your kindness and your beauty… The girl that made my heart beat over and over again… And asking me to have to let you go away… Is like asking me to tear my own heart out… As much as I want you to live… I see why you are doing this… How could I be upset with you… B-but… I love you so much… I don’t want… You to leave my side… I want to be with you forever… Is that all too hard to ask for… Why… Why did have to be you?  (He starts to break down as well).

Hitomi: (Holds Izumi as he sits beside her petting his head to try and comfort him, but tears fall heavily from her as well).  Izumi… I will always be in your heart no matter what… I’m so sorry… But I also love our kids as well more than anything in the world… It’s why I can’t go through with the seal… Please forgive me… I’m not trying to be selfish… I love you so much and that’s why this makes it so hard… Can you ever forgive me?

Izumi: But I want you here… And I love them so I don’t want you to leave them if anything I would want too in your place… And I knew you couldn’t go through with it… And I know you aren’t trying to be… You are not the type of person to be… And it’s even harder for me right now… With all this I can and will be strong… Because I love you… I want to be strong with you because you’re the one that pushes me forward… But maybe I wish it could have lasted a bit longer.  Just promise me… To save a spot for me for wherever you go… So that I can see this beautiful face….  (Sits up to look at Hitomi in the eyes as he kisses her, him giving some energy to her to help her stay awake.  He will always love Hitomi).

The pregnancy continues with Hitomi becoming weaker as the pregnancy progresses.  It begins to show more even with Izumi giving her all the energy he can manage each time seeing her look very tired and weak.  Everyone does their best to help her and have hopes everything works out in the end doing everything they can to help her health.  They even have discussions of terminating the pregnancy with each time Hitomi refusing so that her child lives.  She tries to act strong for everyone though as it comes to the end of the pregnancy the draining of her energy from the child inside her is clear and with her barely able to make it out of bed without help.  Eventually the day of the baby’s delivery had to come as Hitomi is rushed to Shiro to at least try and have a safe delivery.  They try to do everything they can to make sure everything goes smoothly as Izumi gives his wife as much energy as he cannot caring how much it takes out of him.  He is desperately trying to cling to the hope that enough energy will save her.

Shiro: (Is with Shizen doing everything they can though this delivery being much more difficult for Hitomi then the others).  It’s alright, now just breath.  You’re doing fine just a little more, this one’s just more stubborn than the others.

Shizen: (Quickly feeds Hitomi some herbs to help her as well).  Here this should help with the pain at least.

Hitomi: (Nods though it looks like she is in a great deal of pain.  She holds Izumi’s hand very tightly causing his hand a bit of pain feeling like almost going to break while he is transferring energy to her as much as possible.  She yells out from a big contraction and pushes, this delivery clearly being much more difficult than her other two children she had).

Izumi: (He clings to the hope that his wife will be fine by the end of this).  It’s alright honey, you’re doing fine.  Please don’t worry about my energy.  I want you to keep taking as much as you want, just stay here alright?

Hitomi: (Smiles at Izumi to try and help his worry as she breathes heavily).  It’s… Alright Izumi….  (Another contraction hits her as she yells again.  She pushes being more difficult than others as something almost visible in her stomach absorbing her dark energy into that area).

Shiro: (Curses as she works hurriedly).  Dammit Shizen help me with this!  Hitomi just a little more, hang in there!

Shizen: (Rushes over to try and help Shiro working just as fast to try and get the child out of Hitomi as quickly as possible).

Hitomi: (The darkness absorbed makes her a bit weaker and out of breath looking more tired as she breathes raggedly).

Izumi: (He clings to Hitomi seeing the pain that she is enduring and how brave she is for doing this).  Just hold on Hitomi!

Shiro: (Works with Shizen to try and get the baby out).  It’s alright Hitomi, one more push!

Shizen: Just one more push, your almost there.

Hitomi: (Cries out with the push as her hand holds Izumi’s hand very tightly.  At the end of her cry she has heavy breaths but a smile as tears fill her eyes as a second cry is heard… Of a little baby).

Shizen: (She gets a big smile inspecting the very small newborn.  She wraps it in a towel cleaning it off not yet fully visible to its parents as she makes sure the baby is healthy).

Shiro: (Still focuses on helping Hitomi with a very serious look reaching her hand outward to reach for Nagi’s energy as he is in the waiting room.  She knows he doesn’t mind with this happening needing more darkness for Hitomi who is in critical condition with such low energy).

Izumi: (He is looking at the baby and still clinging to the hope that everyone can go home together).  Look Hitomi, you did it!

Hitomi: (Tears overflow as she hears the cries).  Our… Baby I… Can hear….

Shizen: (Goes over to Izumi who holds Hitomi with the small newborn wrapped in a white towel.  They now see that the baby has black hair with red highlights just like Izumi’s, but his eyes are closed as the baby looks tired.  Shizen grins and holds out the baby for Izumi to hold).  Would you like to hold your son?

Hitomi: (Looks very tired but can’t help but smile sweetly looking at their new son).

Izumi: Yes, yes, I would love too!  (He takes his son as he uses one hand to still hang on to Hitomi and one arm for the baby.  While he is holding the baby the newborn opens his eyes seeing that the baby has eyes just like his being red with black where the white would be).

Hitomi: (Looks at their baby as she is not able to move because of her exhaustion but still smiles tiredly).  He… Looks just… Like you.

Izumi: (He looks over to Hitomi really quickly).  Hey Hitomi… Come on, you need to keep your eyes open… You still need to hold him yourself, right?  Come on now and keep your eyes open!

Hitomi: (Looks at Izumi and smiles comfortingly though Izumi’s shout at the end making the baby start to cry.  Then energy from around him start to get absorbed into the baby including from Hitomi draining her already low dark energy more).  I’m… fine….  (Looks weak as she reaches out with all her strength to her baby not wanting him to cry).  Shh… Don’t cry… Y… Yami….  (Smiles more at the name for her 3rd child as her eyes begin to droop but a smile still on her for her newborn child and Izumi not wanting him to cry).

Shiro: (Looks over in shock from what she and Shizen are trying to do to help heal Hitomi not thinking it is possible noticing from the sudden drop of Hitomi’s energy as she says urgently).  Get the baby away, now!

Shizen: (Her eyes widen in shock seeing how the baby taking so much dark energy just by crying).

Izumi: (He panics and starts to leave the room with the baby).

Hitomi: (Reaches out to Izumi and her child as she starts to freak out).  No Izumi… My baby… I want to see….

Shiro: Knows how Hitomi feels rushing to Izumi at the doorway letting Shizen take over with Hitomi.  She goes to the baby in his arms with a glowing hand of light and dark placing it on the baby looking serious seeing how darkness is being absorbed and sighs looking saddened though she still is trying).  Izumi… I can’t seal the power… It’s like he’s using it to live.

Izumi: Well, do something!  (He is looking at Hitomi with a big worry on his face.  He is facing his biggest fear right in front of him).

Shiro: (Works quickly to try and stop the baby from taking energy without killing him, trying to keep a clear mind to do so).

Shizen: (Shouts from where she is trying to help Hitomi hearing the baby’s loud cries).  Get him to stop crying, that’s what causing it!

Hitomi: (Looks very tired like about to sleep as her energy is seen flowing into Yami but still smiles comfortingly at Izumi also wanting to hold and comfort her newborn son as well).  Izumi… It’s alright… Yami shh it’s… Alright… Don’t cry.

Izumi: (Small tears are showing in his eyes as he brings Yami to Hitomi knowing what the result will be of this but can’t deny his wife with her last wish).  Here Yami… Your mom is right here… So, calm down alright?

Hitomi (Her arms wrap around Yami with Izumi kneeled by the bed.  She looks at Yami with a soothing voice and smile to calm his crying and her hand comforting).  Shh… It’s alright… Yami, no need… To be scared.  (She rocks Yami gently as the crying slowly lessens making him calm down and start to take less energy but not stop.  Her energy is still being absorbed into him making her eyes droop again looking over to Izumi reaching one hand to him placing it on his cheek the other around Yami with a gentle and calming smile she always gave as if saying it’s alright).  Izumi… Take care… Of Kuro, Kura… and Yami, I love… You so much, I’m sorry… my family… Thank… You.

Shiro: (Has a hand covering her mouth as she looks at Hitomi and tears fall with Shizen right beside her looking at the darkness seeing her fade a little now by her feet knowing they failed creating a overflow of regret).

Izumi: (As tears fall down his face knowing he can’t do anything save her… Even though he promised her that everything would be fine, that they can live the happy life they always dreamed about and having that dream slip right through his finger.  Seeing the girl, he loves more than anyone else slowly pass away he feels… broken a bit but still smiles so she can be sent off with a smile).  Yes… Hitomi… I will do everything I can… I promise, I might not be the best person for this… But I should be thanking you instead… You were the best thing for me… I didn’t deserve the love you gave me… But even still you did it anyway… So, thank you for being the person that loved me… And the person I could I fall in love with… Thank you Hitomi… I love you.  (He kisses her forehead and lips as tears fall down his face but keeps smiling for her).

Hitomi: (With the last of her strength she wipes Izumi’s tears then her hand slowly falls to Yami as she starts to fade away her energy going into Yami saying before her vision blurs).  Goodnight… My sweet… Family… Izumi… Please don’t be too… Hard on Yami… For this… I… Love you.  (The last part she says is like a whisper as she fades into particles of darkness more Izumi feeling something on his lips like one last goodbye kiss and a warmth inside him from it.  The particles barely show her form, but they can make out her holding him comfortingly).

Izumi: (He holds one of his arms up as he touches the embrace though he feels it faintly he knows that she is still with him).  goodbye Hitomi, I’ll miss you too.

The last of the dark particles flow into Yami who is looking around reaching for a few of the dark particles still flowing into him and then at Izumi with big curious eyes.  He reaches for him but completely calmed down thanks to Hitomi as if her energy inside him had done so as well.

Izumi: (As he wipes away his tears and looks down at Yami).  Gosh… You really do have her eyes in a way too….  (He holds out his hand and grabs baby Yami’s hand).  Well, it looks like… We must carry on for mom, right?  I’m sure you heard already I’m not the best at this type of thing… But I hope you can deal with me Yami… And do what I can to keep my promise to your mom and to your brother and sister… Wow you are kind of cute when you aren’t crying.

Yami: (Looks a little lost not understanding what Izumi is saying but holds Izumi’s finger having an oddly tight hold for a newborn as he kicks his feet a little).

Izumi: Oh man you’re a strong one now aren’t you… Though I expected you not to understand me… I guess I can take this grip as a yes, I think… But regardless… Thank you Yami.

Shiro: (Looks at Yami and Izumi as she wipes her eyes still feeling deep regret).

Shizen: (Places a hand on Shiro’s shoulder looking down but Shiro just sighs shakily and leaves the room needing to calm herself to look strong again for her son).

Yami: (Tilts his head and kicks again as he smiles slobbering on Izumi’s finger a bit.  Biting down a bit Izumi feels something a bit sharp which is odd for a newborn seeing tiny fangs as he yawns but then smiles with a tiny attempt at a laugh and baby noises).

Izumi: Oww now you’re a bitter too aren’t you… That kind of hurt.  (He begins to tear up again having the feeling of Hitomi gone hitting him again).

Yami: (Begins to look tired as he yawns looking up at Izumi reaching at him wanting to be picked up).

Shizen: (Comes over and places a hand on Izumi’s shoulder knowing it will not comfort the pain as she reaches for Yami to pick him up).  Here let me take him to meet his brother and sister… They will be in the waiting room… But take your time here… We… We tried… And Shiro… She did everything possible… We both did… But I’m sorry… Just try and focus on your children… Their a part of both of you after all….  (Sighs sadly picking up Yami to leave the room).

Izumi: (He gets up and stops Shizen).  No, I should be there with them… Like you said… They are a part of both of us… So.  (He takes Yami and smiles at him as he heads into the waiting room).

Shizen: (Smiles and nods to Izumi).  Stay strong for your kids… That is all anyone could do… They are what matters most to a parent.  (As Izumi walks into the waiting room he sees Nagi and Shiro sitting together with Tori beside them followed by Kuro and Kura).

Shiro: (Is in Nagi’s arms wiping her eyes to try and look strong but still feels heavy regret seeing Izumi).

Kuro: (Once he sees Izumi, he stands quickly from helping Kura draw.  He looks down and then at his dad trying to be strong for the family like he promised his mother).  Umm… Hey dad.

Kura: (Notices as Kuro stands up and hops out of her seat giving her coloring book to Tori).  You finish it Towi.

Izumi: (He looks at his kids and does his best to hold a smile as he shows Kuro and Kura their new baby brother).  Here you guys, meet Yami.  Be careful though he packs a bite.

Kuro: (Goes over and looks at Yami and smiles as he sees his baby brother’s eyes and hair are black and red like his, Kura’s and Izumi’s).  Wow he kind of looks like us.

Kura: (Goes on her toes so she can see Yami too).  He looks like mama to… Grandma said mama is inside Yami now… Is she like a barrier to protect him now?

Kuro: (Looks down and pats Kura’s head but keeps a small smile).  … Yeah Kura… I guess we can look at it like that… I promised mom I would protect them… So, if you need a bit of time… I can take care of them both.  (Gives a strong expression wanting to protect not minding the responsibility since he wants to be strong for everyone).

Izumi: No, no I must be here Kuro… I must be… So don’t worry about me… Since I have you three, I should be alright.

Kuro: (Still looks down but sighs).  Alright… Just know I’m here to help.

Kura: I want to help too!

Kuro: (Laughs).  Sure, Kura we can both help but I’m the oldest so I can do more.

Kura: No fair I help just as much!  (Pulls Kuro’s ear and pouts).

Kuro: (Winces as he is dragged down a bit by Kura from the ear).  Ok, ok you can help, just let go!

Izumi: (He laughs as he pets Kura’s head).  Good job now be nice to your brothers Kura.  You don’t want to mistreat them too much.

Kura: (Lets go of Kuro’s ear).  Only if are good.

Kuro: (Laughs and shakes his head).  Fine just try not to pull to hard please.  (Looks at Yami seeing that he looks around the room curiously and then at Kuro who smiles at him reaching his hand out to him).  Hey little brother nice to meet you.

Yami: (Makes a funny noise as he slobbers on Kuro biting him a bit in the process).

Kuro: (Pulls his hand away).  Ow hey not nice biting… Wait aren’t newborns supposed to not have teeth…?  (Looks at Yami closer).  Are those like fangs or something?

Shiro (Raises her head in interest not noticing Yami had teeth).

Kura: (Goes on her toes again to try and get a better look).

Izumi: Yeah, they aren’t supposed too but I guess Yami has something… Special about him and Kura to answer a question earlier… You are kind right about mommy being a barrier.

Kura: (Gives a sad look at not seeing her mom again but then a determined look).  Going to protect him too then… Besides he really cute.

Kuro: (Pats Kura and then Yami’s head).  What do you mean something special?

Izumi: (He looks down a little bit but then back up).  I will tell you when we get home alright?

Kuro: (Gives a confused look but also a little concern).  Ok then.

Kura: (Nods and goes to get her things going over to Tori to get back her coloring book).  Thank you towi, don’t color in mommy’s drawing.  I’m not done yet.

Kuro: (Looks down and frowns sighing a little to look strong then looks back at Kura with Tori).  Kura… It’s alright can give that to her… Later.

Kura: (Nods with a frown but it is clear she doesn’t understand yet fully).

Shiro: (Looks at Kura and then at Nagi not knowing what to say still feeling many regrets as Shizen sits next to them quietly).

Izumi: (He looks down as well then smiles at Kura).  Didn’t we have some drawings that I could do with you as well Kura?

Kura: (Smiles and collects her drawings).  That ok, maybe later and we draw Yami too.  Oh, and here a picture of you too Towi but you didn’t smile so I made one on you.  (Hands Tori a drawing of himself done in crayons. The drawing is alright for a 6-year-old though his hair is done with a white crayon on white paper, so it doesn’t show with rest of the drawing either being a tan color or black and grey though the smile looking a little like it is drawn on after coloring in).

Tori: (As he looks at the picture he is impressed heavily).  Oh, wow this looks really good Kura!  Good job!

Nagi: (As he is holding Shiro knowing what she is feeling right now he kisses her head and holds her close).  Nice one Kura, you have officially become a good artist.

Izumi: (He laughs as best as he can at the moment).

Kura: (Smiles proudly as Kuro pats her head).

Yami: (Starts to look a little fussy as everyone is focusing on Kura as he is about to cry.  A few small cries come out before the loud ones and as soon as he starts crying, he starts to absorb darkness from around him being very uncontrolled as darkness from shadows and Tori and Nagi flows into Yami).

Shiro: (Her eyes widen as she gets up quickly).

Kuro: (Look surprised as well as Kura both not knowing what’s going on as he looks concerned not knowing if Yami’s hurt or not).  Whoa what’s happening to him!

Kura: (Tries to catch some of the darkness not knowing what it is doing).  Is Yami doing that?

Nagi: (He is concerned since he can see the same feeling in Shiro and begins to take Tori out of the room).

Tori: (Puts up a little fuss but they leave the room).

Izumi: (He has a worried expression on his face as he tries to calm him down).  Please not now Yami… Please….  (Somehow managing to calm down the baby).

Shiro: (Sighs sadly to try and help Yami calm down).  Izumi… Nagi and I… We will try to develop a seal for him somehow….

Shizen: (Looks at Kuro and Kura).  At least you and your other children do not seem to be affected by it….

Kuro: (Gets a closer look at Yami still being confused but smiles playing with him a bit to help calm him down).

Izumi: I guess so… Well, that is a relief I guess in a way… Though it is nice that Kuro is playing with him.  He seems better.

Kuro: (Smiles).  No problem, I mean kind of like our ability so can teach him maybe, but I didn’t start developing that power till I was like Kura’s age.  Kind of weird to get it already with just crying right?

Kura: Whoa that mean I do that to?  (Looks at her hands wondering how the power works).

Shiro: (Smiles at Kura).  Your father will teach you when you are ready.

Shizen: (Smiles at Kura as well).  Every child grows at their own pace.

As the family heads back to a quiet home they settle in and try to get used to things.  Kuro helps with Yami who seems fussy at most times crying more than normal which results in him taking energy.  Izumi tries his best even Kura pitching in to do chores and reading her mother’s cookbook sometimes saying it is because she misses her but stops herself when she walked in to see Izumi cry so has kept to herself.  Kuro has been doing more chores than usual as well as taking care of Yami to help Izumi.  He carries Yami who cries in his arms as well as taking darkness from around him.

Kuro: (Frowns as he has been trying to figure out why Yami has been keeping them up all night with his cries with everyone being tired from lack of sleep).  Come on, you can’t cry this much.  You need to sleep to right or what are you hungry?

Kura: (Uses her fingers to plug her ears from the loud cries).

Izumi: (As he does his best to fill the father role as best, he can he takes care of the kids but the help from Kura and Kuro makes things easier in some ways.  He helps Kura cook and Kuro with some other chores whenever he can.  He does his best to keep up a front until around night when his front is breaks and he feels lost without his wife there with him).  Come on Yami… Shh it’s alright, dads right here… I’m not going anywhere.

Yami: (Continues to cry as Izumi attempts to calm him down while darkness flows into him and a knock on the door is heard).

Kuro: I’ll get it and Yami stop biting, were trying to help!  (He leaves Yami’s room to go get the door but looks stressed out from lack of sleep and the loud cries.  Kura keeps her ears plugged peeking in at Yami as Kuro goes to the front door to open it.  He sees Nagi being surprised but looking too tired to react to much).  Oh hey.

Nagi: Hello Kuro… How is Yami doing.  (He hears the cries, so he gets an idea as soon as he asks).

Kuro: (Looks back where the crying is coming from and then back at Nagi).  Do you really need to ask?  He’s been like that all night and yesterday too.

Kura: (Walks to stand beside Kuro her fingers still in her ears).  It’s really, really loud!

Nagi: Hmm maybe Izumi could try to do something to calm his nerves… Was there anything that seemed to work.

Kuro: (Shrugs as he thinks).  Hmm I don’t know?

Kura: Oh, he laughed when he bit Kuro.

Kuro: (Sighs).  Not getting bit on purpose.

Kura: Oh, and there was this one-time daddy was holding Yami like mommy used to hold me and that always made me feel better two.

Kuro: (Looks down patting Kura’s head).  Yeah, I remember but that power kind of getting out of hand so maybe that’s making him cry too.

Kura: (Gives a worried look).  Does that mean he’s in pain?

Nagi: It could be many different things at the moment but I’m sure that your dad is doing everything he can at the moment.

Kuro: Yeah, I know, hopeful this seal thing calms Yami down or something, nothings working so far today.  (As he lets Nagi inside).

Kura: I tried making him cookies too.  (Brings up a plate of chocolate chip cookies though they seem a little smooched together and messy).

Kuro: (Laughs patting Kura’s head).  Good thought but I don’t think he can eat those yet.

Kura: But he has those teeth already.

Kuro: … I guess you have a point.  He might just as long as I’m not bit again.

Nagi: Yes… Hopefully it will help things out and if you wouldn’t mind, could I have one the cookies Kura?

Kura: (Get a big smile offering Nagi a cookie).  I found mommy’s cookbook, so I wanted to make everything in it.

Kuro: (Looks down and smiles taking a cookie as well).  … Yeah, it does taste similar to hers… Good job Kura.  (Gives Kura a thumbs up and a big smile).

Nagi: (As he takes a bite, he is surprised of good it tastes despite its look).  Very well-done Kura, these are great!

Kura: (Smiles proudly).  Thank you!

Kuro: (Smiles then hears another loud cry from Yami as they see darkness being absorbed into the room).  That powers getting kind of out of hand.  I mean we can’t have other dark spirits over either.  You said you could help him, right?

Kura: (Looks up at Nagi with a hopeful expression).  Please I don’t like seeing Yami cry.  Is he going to be ok?

Nagi: We will do our best since we are still looking into the seal itself… Since we don’t understand how this is happening… But we will do our best.

Kuro: (Looks down and nods).  As long as he’s safe then… Come on dad’s with Yami now if you want to see them, careful though he’s pretty strong.

Kura: He grabbed my hair one time and it really hurt.  (She rubs her head as she remembers).

Nagi: (He pets Kura’s head and smiles).  I’m afraid I won’t be able to do that since he would be taking my energy… I am sorry.

Kuro: (Looks down).  Oh… Right… Happened to Tori too… How do we help him then?

Kura: (Looks up at Nagi with a beggful look).  Please, what about the seal thingy so you don’t get hurt.

Kuro: No, it’s fine, we can wait for Shiro to get here.

Nagi: (As he is about to leave, he thinks of something as he stops the kids from walking away).  Wait I have an idea for this… Give me one second.  (He walks off and begins to create a seal in the air that has a source of dark energy being engraved into it.  When he finishes it up, he puts it on a scroll and gives it to Kuro).  This might be another solution if we can seal away the power… I can try to create a source of constant dark energy for Yami so he wouldn’t need to absorb any energy… This is an experiment to try.  If it works, then we won’t need to worry about this, and Tori can come over again.

Kuro: (Begins to smile with hope as he takes the scroll).  Thanks… I’ll tell you if it works tomorrow.

Kura: (Hugs Nagi).  Yay thank you grandpa, Yami’s going to be all better.

Nagi: Well, this is still a test, the results may vary but I will hope this helps

Kuro: Still thank you and tell Tori I’ll spare with him next time when we figure this all out.  What is it like 500 times so far?

Kura: (Thinks for a moment).  No, it’s 471 ties.

Kuro: (Looks surprised but smiles).  Wow kept track?

Kura: (Nods her head).

Nagi: (He laughs as pets both of their heads).  I will tell him as soon as I get home.

Kuro: Thanks now I’ll give the seal to dad, see you later grandpa.

Kura: (Hugs Nagi with a big smile as she waves goodbye.

Kuro: (Closes the door once Nagi has left and goes to Yami’s room where Izumi is still trying to calm him down with Kura right behind him).  Hey dad, grandpa stopped by, he gave us a seal that might stop Yami’s energy too.  (Holds up the scroll with the seal).

Izumi: (He looks surprised about Kuro telling him this and takes the scroll from Kuro).  It will?

Kuro: Yeah, he said it’s supposed to seal the ability, but he wasn’t sure if it will work really but I guess it’s worth a try at least, right?

Kura: Yami going to be all better!

Izumi: (He shakes his head yes as he gets the seal ready to be used on Yami.  He brings the seal out of the scroll and brings it into Yami).

Yami: (Continues to cry as the seal begins to react when near him making the seal seem shadowy every time it goes near.  Once it is placed it sticks onto his chest as the seal activates making the darkness being absorbed into him slowly stop.  His crying calms down to just sniffles looking up at Izumi).

Izumi: (He begins to look surprised that this is working so well).

Kuro: (Looks surprised as well).  It’s working?

Kura: (Gets a big smile going on her toes to see Yami).

Yami: (Just stares at everyone looking at them curiously as he calms down and yawns).

Kuro: (Smiles and laughs as Yami grabs his finger).  There you go little guy, about time you calmed down.  Maybe now you’ll let us get some sleep.

Izumi: (As he smiles and holds Yami).  Yes… I think it’s time to get some rest for now… Let’s go kids.

Kuro: Yeah, sounds good Kura, want me to read you a story before bed?

Kura: (Gets excited as she heads to her room).  Yay story, I want to read it.  (Remembers and runs back going on her toes to see Yami before leaving).  Goodnight Yami, I’m glad you’re all better.  (She has a big smile then begins to drag Kuro away to her room).  Come on story, story!

Kuro: Oh, wait up, no need to push!  (Pets Yami on the head before he is pulled away and smiles).  Alright goodnight and I’ll be back in a bit dad.  (He leaves with Kura).

Yami: (Looks up at Izumi being tired now as he holds onto his finger and clings to him).

Izumi: (As he smiles and kisses Yami’s head).  Thank your mother for this type of moment and I know things will work out right?  Yeah, I think so.  So come on Yami let’s go rest now.

 

The seal on Yami seems to calm him down letting everyone finally sleep.  Kuro is doing chores as Kura soon helps, the day seeming very calm with very little crying though Yami though he seems more tired than normal.  It’s not noticed until later that day that Yami seems a little ill.

Kuro: (Is checking on Yami as he is in his crib seeing that he seems a little unwell.  He shouts to Izumi in the other room as Kura is making lunch).  Hey dad does Yami look ok?  Think he’s getting a sick, do we have any of that cold medicine aunty Shizen made?

Yami: (Looks tired as he moves around a little seeming weaker in his movements though and a little cold).

Izumi: (As he comes into the room and feels Yami’s forehead).  Yeah… Your right.  I think we have some in the cabinet over by his crib.

Kuro: Umm yeah sure, I can grab it here hold him for a second.  (Gives Yami to Izumi as he goes to the cabinet to get the medicine).

Yami: (Looks up tiredly at Izumi as he looks like he is about to sleep as he holds his finger clinging to him).

Izumi: (He holds Yami close feeling the cold from his body).  This is very strange.

Kuro: (Tosses Izumi the bottle of medicine once he finds it).  Here it is, this should help right?  I mean it helped Kura that one time she got sick too.  (He comes over to get a closer look at Yami feeling his forehead feeling the same cold as well with a little worry).

Izumi: It should but I will stay to keep an eye on him.

Kuro: Alright I’ll do that too later.  I’ll check on Kura see how she is doing with lunch and get some formula for him too.  That should help.  (Begins to head into the kitchen).

Yami: (Had fallen asleep in Izumi’s hold, shivering a little being cold as he clings to Izumi).

Izumi: (He shakes his head as he tries to give Yami medicine).  Please…Don’t end up like your mom.

 

The day continues with Kuro not trying to make Kura worry too much as Yami sleeps most of the time thinking letting him rest would be best.  When it is around time for bed everyone is heading to bed with Kuro tucking in Kura like normal and saying goodnight everyone ready to sleep.  Kuro is the one to wake up in the middle of the night feeling something is wrong.  He gets up to check on Yami.  Izumi had fallen asleep a little after everyone else trying to get at least a little sleep in between thinking of his wife and in his dreams as well when he’s woken up by loud shouting from his son Kuro.

Kuro: Yami wake up little guy come on… DAD GET IN HERE HELP!  YAMI COME ON, WAKE UP!

Izumi: (He gets up quickly and runs over to Yami and Kuro and picks him and tries to figure out what’s going on).

Yami: (Still is unresponsive as he is in Izumi’s hold as well as he is very pale and cold as if his energy is nearly all gone).

Kuro: (It is clear he is very scared).  WHAT DO WE DO!  SHOULD I GET GRANDMA AND GRANDPA HERE!  WHY WON’T HE WAKE UP!

Kura: (Rubs her eyes as she is in the doorway having heard yelling but still very tired).  What’s going on?

Izumi: No… It would be faster if we took him to them… We need to… Go… NOW!

Kuro: (Nods and takes Yami from Izumi as he concentrates closing his eyes for a second absorbing darkness into him.  Opening his eyes which glow red with dark part being shadowy looking serious as he gives his energy to Izumi and Yami to give them more power).  I’ll be right behind you with Kura, GO!

Izumi: (He takes Yami instead).  No, you run, I’m going to hold Yami and give him my energy while we are running to at least try to stabilize him.

Kuro: (Nods and picks up a still confused and not fully awake Kura as he grabs some things, they would need letting Izumi run with Yami as he rushes to catch up).

Yami: (Remains unresponsive in Izumi’s arms looking very pale still).

Izumi: (In his mind his worry for Yami expands greatly since he doesn’t want to waste the life that his wife brought out into the world for him to leave so soon.  He hurries as fast as he can.  They reach the house, and he begins to knock as hard as they can, not caring about waking anyone up).

Shiro: (Hears the loud knock instantly being woken up as she sleeps in her and Nagi’s room upstairs sitting up quickly and shaking Nagi to try and wake him up).  Nagi wake up, did you hear that?

Nagi: (He wakes up but is still half asleep).  What’s… Going on Shiro?  (As he rubs his eyes).

Shiro: (Hears another loud and frantic knock and she gets out of bed quickly grabbing a robe to put on to head downstairs).  What’s going on, it’s the middle of the night.

Nagi: (He gets up as well hearing the noises).  What is that?  Sounds like people in a panic.

Shiro: (Nods looking more serious and alert, tossing Nagi his robe as she finishes getting hers on going downstairs to see what is going on).  I’ll meet you downstairs, it must be serious to come here this late at night.

Nagi: (He shakes his head yes as he starts to get ready to head down as well).

Shiro: (Heads downstairs quickly creating a light in her hand to see where she is going better.  She goes to the front door hearing the frantic knocking again opening the door quickly seeing Izumi with baby Yami cradled in his arms looking panicked as she looks surprised).  Izumi… What’s wrong, did something happen?

Izumi: (He looks to be in a desperate panic).  It’s… Yami… He isn’t breathing well… And feels very cold… I’m scared mom….

Shiro: (Let’s Izumi in and takes a look at Yami seeing how pale he looks as she feels his forehead a light surrounding her hands feeling how cold he is with a more serious expression).  Here lay him on the table for now.  (Rushes using a bit of her light speed to clear the dinner table quickly as a temporary area to examine Yami).

Izumi: (He comes over to the table with fear in his eyes and puts Yami down on it).

Shiro: (Brightens the room and goes over to Yami feeling his forehead and stomach again with light glowing around her hands).  He’s cold, hypothermia?…. No not quite….  (Thinks and then pulls darkness from Nagi exchanging light for darkness around her hands as she concentrates).  His energy is very low… When did this start?  Are there any other things you noticed besides cold and weak?

Nagi: (As he is giving energy to Shiro he is doing his best to figure out what is wrong with Yami).

Izumi: (In his rushed mind set).  Umm, umm I think he has been sleeping a lot more and seemed weaker in general.

Shiro: Alright now calm down at least.  I won’t let you lose him.  It looks like his energy is depleted.  I think maybe a jolt of dark energy should bring him back so one of you need to do that and quickly.  He barely has any energy left.  (Looks to Nagi motioning him to come closer seeing how pale and weak Yami is).  Nagi help me with stabilizing him, I need more darkness.

Nagi: (He shakes his head yes as he helps Shiro as Izumi holds Yami hand and keeps giving him his own energy).

Shiro: (Continues to concentrate as she notices something is off with Yami’s energy.  Waving her hand, she reveals the dark energy seal put on him but also noticing the energy inside him).  He’s not regenerating his own energy… That’s… Odd… Nagi undo the seal, I think that is what’s causing this.

Nagi: (He is shocked but then begins to think about it himself and then starts to undo the seal knowing the answer as well now).

Shiro: (Keeps her hand on Yami’s forehead as she concentrates looking to Izumi).  Now Izumi I need you to give your energy to Yami in one big burst but just be careful not to do one to powerful.  That should stabilize him more at least.

Izumi: Yes!  (In the moment he puts his hand over Yami and where the seal used to be and begins to quickly give Yami energy).

Shiro: (Nods and continues holding Yami’s head with her hands covered in dark energy trying to get him to breath regularly and increase his heart rate.  It slowly seems to be working, Yami looking slightly less pale but still unresponsive).

Nagi: (He begins to get more worried about Yami and gives Shiro as much energy as he can while Izumi begins to tear up not seeing Yami look as well as he is hoping).

Shiro: (Nods to Nagi as a thank you not looking up as she focuses on Yami.  Gathering more of Nagi’s dark energy in her hands she places it on Yami’s chest as she releases energy into Yami in quick bursts as if to quicken his heart rate which she does about 4 times before any result).

Yami: (Suddenly does a quick movement on his own as if startled and coughs).

Izumi: (He stops giving energy for a second as he gets a breather being relieved that Yami can still make it).

Shiro: (Gets a relieved smile as she takes a breath seeing the color return to Yami).  He should be fine now, but it will take longer to find a solution to his power.  It’s his only way of having energy… He cannot create his own though… Not being able to absorb darkness is what caused this.

Izumi: (He is silent for a moment as he picks up Yami).  I am aware… I tried to find an easy answer with the seal… And that didn’t work… I’m sorry but… I guess there will never be a solid answer.

Shiro: We will keep trying, don’t give up.  For now, he should be fine… Don’t give up, we will figure something out.  (Gives Izumi a reassuring smile and a hug being careful of Yami in his arms who starts to move around a bit being a bit more alert and awake but still tired).

Izumi: It seems we must leave now before he wakes up more… Thank you again… And I know you will.

Shiro: I understand.  (Nods seeing Kuro and Kura outside peeking in and then looks upstairs by the rails seeing Tori standing up there watching them).  Tori goes to bed now, everything’s fine.

Tori: (After watching everything he has a bad feeling going back up stairs as Izumi and his family leaves the house with him waving goodbye to Kuro and Kura).

 

It is a little later with Yami still being very small as they try to keep him from taking energy especially when upset or crying.  They realize that Yami cannot regain his own energy and that he needs to absorb it, Kuro having to keep Tori away, so he is not weakened or worse.

Kuro: (Stops Tori before he comes in to visit with him looking serious).  Tori… I know this is hard… But I can’t let you in there with Yami in there… I know you want to hang out like before this… But we can’t… Not now… I’m sorry… But for now… Its goodbye… I’m doing this because I don’t want you to get hurt… Or worse… Please… Try and understand… I’m sorry for pushing you away….  (Looks down and away as crying is heard inside from Yami and a little darkness is taken from Tori being brought further away making it less of an impact to him).

Tori: (Looks down as he puts his hands in his pocket as his hair is a bit longer than before).  Fine… I know… I understand… So be it… I guess I’ll go train by myself then… See you Kuro….

Kuro: (Looks at Tori and then frowns looking down).  Hey… I’m not trying to push you away as a friend… It’s just that… If you go by Yami now… Or stay around here… Then I really lose a friend… I don’t want that to happen… I’m sorry… I’m just trying to protect you… I’m sorry.

Tori: I know you aren’t… It’s just… I guess it’s the price to protect everything… So be it.

Kuro: I guess so… Everything comes with a price… I know that… Just… Remember.  (Lifts his arm in a fist towards Tori in a fist bump not needing to explain any further).

Tori: Yeah, I know you silly.  (Bumps fists with Kuro).

Kuro: Good now get going and become stronger.  I know that we’ll stay friends even if I don’t see you as often… I know they will be alright… and I know one day Yami will be able to control it… Just not soon… He still is a baby after all… But until then it’s up to me to keep them safe so see ya until everything is calmed down a little here… And then we can have a rematch again.  (He grins and nods his farewell to Tori).

 

As Izumi, Kuro, Kura and Yami go back home things stay pretty normal with a few fun moments.  Yami seems to cry less as he grows a little and he can find things he enjoys.

Kura: (It is another morning where she is cooking breakfast looking in her mom’s cookbook to see if she is doing everything right).

Kuro: (Sits with Yami who is in his little booster seat taking care of him as he sets the table).  Ok little Yami all set.

Yami: (Waves his arms around grabbing at the silverware and waving it in front of Kuro).  No little! 

Kuro: (Puts his hands up like he’s caught with a grin).  Hey, no need to act like that.

Kura: (Has trouble pouring flour into a big bowl still being a bit short for the counter).  Kuro, I need help.

Kuro: (Looks at Kura and goes over to help her).  Sure, no problem.

Kura: Thank you.  (Takes over and tries to get onto the counter to mix better).

Kuro: Here.  (Picks Kura up so she can sit on the counter).  Want me to mix too?

Kura: No, I can do the rest.

Yami: (As Kuro wasn’t noticing he had climbed onto the kitchen table with a kitchen knife he picked up and waves it into the air).  I win!

Kuro: (Turns around seeing Yami with a kitchen knife and looks scared for a second).  Umm Yami… Put that down.

Yami: (Holds the knife protectively).  No mine!

Kuro: (Get closer but makes sure he is careful as Kura watches and panics a little).  Come on, just put it down.  We can play with the wooden ones again.

Yami: (Waves the knife around like when playing with his wooden set).  No, this better!

Kuro: Come on that’s for bigger people, I don’t want you hurting yourself right!

Yami: (Refuses to let go).  No, spare now!  (Hands Kuro a fork as he looks determined).

Kuro: (Raises his eyebrow as he holds the fork).  Not really fair here but still how about you use the fork.

Yami: (Looks ready to spar as he stands on the table).  No mine!

Kuro: Oh fine only for a little bit and if I win I get the knife back.  (Holds the fork out as if pretending to spar with Yami watching carefully so he doesn’t get hurt).

Yami: (Waves the knife around as Kuro blocks moving all around the table).

Kuro: (Laughs and grins seeing Yami is having fun and laughing as he moves swiftly around the table pretending to spar).  That the best you’ve got?

Yami: (Continues to laugh and spar with Kuro).  No, I win!

Kuro: Well, you can try!  (Continues to move around until he notices Izumi in the doorway once moving to the other side of the table.  He pauses looking like he might be in trouble and gives a nervous laugh).  … Hey dad… What’s up?

Izumi: (As he sits down next to Yami and takes the knife away from him he hands him a knife that looks real but is fake).  If you’re going to spar use this, please.  You don’t want to hurt me, or your sibling do you Yami?

Yami: (Looks at the new knife and waves it around).  Fun!

Kuro: (Laughs and pats Yami’s head as he sits).  Well for a little guy you got some skills though.

Yami: No little!

Kuro: (Laughs more).  I’m not sure about that.

Kura: (Goes over to Kuro grabbing his ear).  Don’t be an idiot, no fighting.

Kuro: Ow hey let go, just was having fun!

Kura: No still bad.

Kuro: Fine never again just let go!

Yami: (Laughs as he watches).

Kura: (Looks at Yami). you’re in trouble too little Yami.

Yami: No little!

Izumi: (He begins to chuckle as he pets Yami’s head).  Yes, yes, you’re very strong Yami, just like your siblings but don’t ever let it blind you alright?

Yami: (Looks a bit lost not knowing what Izumi means).

Kuro: (Laughs as well).  Well maybe I can train him, just need to grow more.

Kura: (Brings food to the table looks at Yami).  No getting hurt little Yami.

Yami: (Gets a grumpy look as he sits on the table).  No little.

Kuro: If you’re going to pout can you get off the table first.

Yami: (Continues to pout stubbornly on the table).

Kuro: Here little guy you want to be tall (Picks up Yami and puts him on his shoulder).

Yami: (Gets a amazed look being so high up).

Kuro: (Laughs seeing Yami’s reaction).  I guess its fun being tall huh?

Kura: (Giggles as well watching Kuro and Yami).

Izumi: (He laughs and then takes Yami and does the same to make him go even higher up while trying to be careful not to hit the ceiling).

Yami: (His eyes widen more in amazement as he reaches for the ceiling).

Kuro: (laughs more as well as Kura as they get ready to eat enjoying the peaceful and good times they are having).

Time passes on with Yami growing slowly being a little 4-year-old toddler but a little grumpier than a normal child with a lot of fight in him. Around when Yami looks about 3 something changes in Izumi going out for long periods of time without Kuro and Kura knowing so before he leaves one day, they confront him wanting to know what is wrong.

Kuro: (Is in the doorway in front of Izumi blocking him from leaving).  Dad… Where have you been going… Come on you can tell us… What’s been going on.

Kura: (Is in back of Izumi as she holds Yami with a worried look).

Izumi: (As he hides his face).  I’m just doing some favors for a person that may heal… This sorrow within me… Sorry but I need to go… I’ll have Nagi and Shiro come and make you guy’s dinner… I’m sorry again… I love you all.

Kuro: (Stays in front of the doorway leaning on the frame).  Look… Don’t lose yourself in the process… I said I would take care of these two so don’t worry about them… But just don’t do something that crazy and dangerous… And don’t push us away like you are now….

Kura: Please… I saw the books on your desk… Don’t get mad at me for sneaking into your office… It’s just….  (Looks down away as she starts to tear up).  Don’t go.

Yami: (Looks at Izumi not saying a word, just staring).

Izumi: I’m sorry but I need to do this… It’s something I need to do… I will be back… And I’m not mad at all… And I know you will Kuro… I’m sorry I can’t at the moment.

Kuro: I know… But what Kura found… Is that really worth it then… Is it what mom would’ve wanted…? Just be careful… If you go too far… Then who knows how much you’ll lose….  (Looks down as he frowns).

Yami: (Goes over to stand beside Izumi looking up at him).

Izumi: I’m not sure anymore… But it’s given me hope… I’m sorry if I put you all at risk… If I may suggest you can go… But I don’t know where… I’m sorry…I love you….

Kuro: Just understand… That if you do put these two at risk… I won’t forgive you that easily… If not at all.

Yami: (In very broken up words since he’s still very small).  Let go… I reason… sad now… I took mama away… Just go…. My fault…. Go.  (Turns and walks away to his room).

Kura: No… Yami wait!  (She tries to stop him but Yami runs not wanting to be stopped as he takes energy from around him making it clear that he is upset).

Kuro: (Looks surprised then looks down still leaning in the doorway).

Izumi: (He goes to Yami still covered in his cloak that he was leaving in).  Oh, come on now… You can’t talk like that… No one is blaming you… Yami.

Yami: (Just looks down and away from).  I am… She died… having me… She shouldn’t die… Should just not born… Everyone happier that way.  (Moves away from Izumi).  I wasn’t worth it… Hurt people anyways.  (Tries to run away again fists clenched in anger as he takes more darkness from around him).

Izumi: (Pulls Yami close as he hugs him tight).  Well, you were worth it to Kura and Kuro.  Your everything to them… You’re my son… I can’t blame you for anything…. All your mother wanted was for this family to be happy.  (He takes off the cloak).  Your mother and I wouldn’t be happy knowing you were gone.  It would destroy us so no more blaming yourself….  (Tears form in Izumi’s eyes as they fall down on to Yami’s face).

Yami: (Looks at Izumi then away again).  Just… Can’t… Must… Hate ability… No one can get near me… Kill people that way… I not worth it.  (Breaks away from Izumi’s hold and runs into his room slamming the door).

Kura: (Runs after Yami and tries to open the door).  Yami… Come one let me in!

Kuro: (Walks past Izumi on the way to help Yami first stopping by Izumi who’s still kneeled where Yami was).  He’s been like this for a while now… Ever since you started disappearing and saw how sad you were… I’ve tried telling him but… You would’ve realized that if you were here, but he keeps it to himself mostly… Just do whatever you’re going to do… Just don’t involve us.  (Walks away without another word leaving Izumi by himself).

Izumi: I see….  (Stays where he is for a while and after some time of him sitting there, he gets up and heads to living room throwing his cloak away).  I shouldn’t be doing this huh Hitomi… It’s not making anyone happy at all.

 

As time goes on with some fun and some struggles with Yami’s power being not able to go near other dark spirits they continue daily life and taking care of him.  Izumi seems to be recovering from the pain at Yami’s birth since the kids begin to see the life in his eyes again and becoming more playful with them.  He won’t let Kuro and Kura handle everything though he does appreciate the help they have given him, how they did not give up on him.  After the funeral was over with Izumi at the time, he wasn’t in the right mindset for it but as of recently it has come into his mind since he feels he needs that comfort it being soon after a memorial for his wife bringing the grief back into his mind.  On a night where the kids seemed to be exhausted so after they fall asleep, he takes a cloak and starts to head out with a different goal in mind to make things better for his family as a whole.  As it is the middle of the night Izumi takes a hooded cloak and looks like he is about to go somewhere not telling anyone.  He has everything he needs as he is heading for the door when he notices a 3-year-old little Yami in a bed time black onesie with overalls and holding a bright red blanket standing on the side watching him as he rubs his eyes.

Izumi: (He kneels down).  Yami… Why are you awake?  I thought you were sleeping in your bed with Kura and Kuro.

Yami: No sleep….  (As he is absorbing dark energy into him keeping him awake as he looks up at Izumi wondering where he is going).  Where going?  Go with?

Izumi: I’m going to meet up with a friend of mine to talk to him about some things and no you can’t come with.  I should be back in an hour or so go lay down with your brother and sister alright?

Yami: (Goes over to the door grabbing his little jacket on the side of it being stubborn).  No go with dada.

Izumi: (As he smiles but sighs).  No, no Yami… I promise to do something special for you tomorrow… Anything you want alright?

Yami: (Looks up at Izumi with an upset expression taking a bit more darkness from around him as he gives Izumi his red blanket and starts to head to his room).  … Come back.

Izumi: (He smiles and gives Yami a quick hug).  I promise I will, don’t have to worry about that, now goodnight Yami.

 

As a little time passes and Izumi spends a little more time at home there is a incident that involves Agni where Izumi disappears for a while.  It is the same time just after Yami had given his father his little red blanket to return to him.  Most do not know why for a long time until he appears again with a explosion of a seal backfiring but increasing his dark abilities drastically.  He is going on a rampage as all highly skilled spirits go to the open area where Izumi is and try to push him away from civilizations as a all out war breaks out.  The council members and Shiro and Nagi’s children trying to fight or get through to Izumi but nothing is making a dent.  One by one the Council members fall unable to stop it even with combined strength the last to fall being Shizen as she struggles to stand or do something being struck deeply as Nagi and Shiro are the last ones fighting against Izumi with all their power.  Izumi’s power starts to go wild as he absorbs more darkness, so much so that it could cause a mass explosion destroying everything and maybe even their world with so much energy in one spot.  Nagi and Shiro realize this being beaten up from the fight but still standing giving it everything they have.

Shiro: (Looks at Nagi being out of breath as she leans on her sword a little).  Nagi… You know what must be done… We won’t be able to stop this if we don’t… We have no choice…. (Looks at Izumi with sorrow in her eyes but nods seeing Izumi’s pain).  We need to stop this at any cost….

Nagi: (Is silent as he just stares at Izumi for a moment).  I know… I wish we didn’t need to do this… I’m sorry Hitomi, I hope you can forgive me….

Shiro: (Starts to glow brightly of her element holding out her hand to Nagi making a hand sign with her other hand on her chest).  I’m sorry to… But there’s no time to come up with another option… The best we can do is end it quickly for him… We have no other choice… It’s what must be done or all is lost… I’m sorry.  (Looks at Nagi with sorrow but knows that she can’t avoid this).  Let’s do this together… He is our son after all.

Izumi: (As he is fighting off the last of the spirits that are fighting against him, he looks at his parents with a blind fury in his eyes in this dark monstrous form).

Nagi: Yeah… A parents got to put their kids in their place….  (He unsheathes his long sword as he makes a hand sigh as well).

Shiro: (A seal starts to form beneath both their feet as she mumbles a few words to create the seal).  It is alright… The pain will not last much longer my son… It will be alright.

Shizen: (Struggles to lift herself from the ground being severely hurt looking at Nagi and Shiro eyes widening realizing what they are doing).  W… W-what are you doing Nagi… Shiro… No don’t do this!  There must be another way, no!  (Tears start to fall as she reaches out to both of them).

Nagi: (Looks back Shizen).  Sometimes it is the only way… Tell Tori we are sorry we couldn’t keep our promise to him and that we love him very much….  (Tears form in his eyes as he looks back at Izumi).  To save your family… And everyone else… We must achieve a final act of balance… Ready Shiro?

Shizen: (Breaks down as tears fall helplessly).  Please… I understand… I will look after your children best I can, but it still hurts to much to say goodbye.

Shiro: I know Shizen you will do your best… I just wish that the peaceful times would have stayed a little longer.

Shizen: I wish so as well but these things can’t be helped, I know it… Just know that I will do my best to help the balance come back to this world.

Shiro: I know you will do your best as well and our time for keeping balance is over.  I realize that now.  It is time for a new balance to come into this world… The seal is set Nagi, when you are ready there no turning back after the seal is activated.  (The seals start to shine of black and white under their element as they are shrouded in their own elements).

Nagi: (He holds just as tight).  I wish I could have taught him how to control his powers better… How to handle the other world… To show him more of what it feels like to have a family… That keeps their promises… I’m sorry Tori… I’m sorry everyone… But this will be our final act… Of love for you all….

Shiro: Yes… A final sacrifice to save everything we love and protect… But I think they will survive… And the peaceful times will come again as balance is restored… The seal is set… Let’s end this.  (The light covering all her breaks away revealing white glowing full armor with a pure white cloak.  Her hair flows freely and the style being of a mage and a knight.  The outfit is form fitting to her body and with small waves of detail some engraved in black to look like yin and yang with swirls of designs surrounding it.  With every movement she looks like she shines as she looks down feeling the power build up in her that she had not felt in a very long time, since before the new generations were made).

Nagi: (He releases his seal as well becoming fully covered in a dark cloak that reveals black armor with the cloak attached.  His face isn’t fully covered but the helmet has a small white swirl on it to go with yin and yang.  His sword becomes something made of a pure essence for darkness that drops little droplets of his energy.  When he moves around, he moves like a shadow with his blade in hand to handle any attack effortlessly).  So, we will be the gate to that balance.  We will be the ones to make sure they see a tomorrow.  We will make sure that no matter what happens they are smiling so we will bring down this chaos no matter the cost!

Izumi: (He has just finished with the last of the spirits that tried to hold him off with all his energy surrounding him like a wild animal.  His eyes glow heavy red but no one can see his face.  It is like his entire body is just one energy going berserk and consuming him).

Shiro: Now to protect this world… And let our son rest and be at peace.  (Instantly after giving Nagi’s hand one more tight squeeze she is gone in a flash of light not even being able to be seen.  Only flashes of bright light are seen almost looking like it is from all directions towards Izumi.  She then stops a few feet away from him setting a barrier around him containing the elements raging around him looking at her son and sorrow yet comforting expression).  I am sorry my son… We will end this torment for you… It will be alright.

Nagi: (He follows up with Shiro with his attack moving as fast as he can leaving a trail of darkness behind him as he begins the seal to place on Izumi).  May the after world embrace you with open arms!

Shiro: (Helps with the seal combining their elements to make the seal black and white as she looks at her son a tear falling as she looks at Izumi before placing it).  And let Hitomi be there to calm you and bring you to peace… I’m sorry my son.  (Makes an opening in the barrier petting Izumi’s head a little but also to puts the seal on him both her and Nagi holding the seal as they hold their hands over it).

Nagi: Goodbye my son… I hope you have a good next life… We will be there with you like Hitomi… We love you son….  (He tears up heavily upon seeing the sight of Izumi and what they are about to do).

Shiro: (Has tears as well as they slowly bring the seal towards Izumi’s chest against the energy rushing at them).  Please forgive us… For not finding another way… I’m so sorry….  (Tears fall heavily as the seal is placed on Izumi’s chest and it starts to activate spreading throughout his body in swirls of designs in black and white all leading to the seal as she struggles to speak over her emotions).  The… Seal is… Set.

Izumi: (Starts to feel immense pain going through his entire body the energy surrounding him starts to go away as it begins to show his body under the energy).

Shiro: (Both her and Nagi’s hand still stay on the seal the whole time as she lets down the barrier.  Tears still fall as she pets Izumi’s head trying to sooth the pain he’s going through).  It’s alright my son, the pain will not last too long… It’s alright.

Nagi: Everything is going too alright now Izumi… I’m sorry….

Izumi: (Begins to scream in pain from the seal).

Shiro: (Wants to take her hand from the seal but knows she cannot.  The screams from her son making her cry not ever wanting to cause him pain like this and the scream causing her to breakdown a bit wanting to sooth the pain he is in, so she holds Izumi close while keeping her hand on the seal).  Shh it’s alright… Everything will be alright in a moment… We love you so much… I’m so sorry for doing this to you… Please forgive us.

Nagi: (He does the same as he keeps the seal going).  And forgive your silly dad as well… It’s about done….

Izumi: (He falls to the ground having all his energy forcefully drained out of him and now floating into the air)

Shiro (With the help of Nagi’s darkness he shared with her she starts to scatter the energy best she can so it is not in one condensed place and spreads it as far as she possibly can with her magic.  She stays with Nagi as the last of Izumi’s energy is about to leave him and as well as his life).  It’s almost gone then… And my son… Please forgive us and… Be at peace.  (As she is holding Izumi with Nagi she moves her hair away more, so her face is fully shone and kisses his forehead as she is saying goodbye).

Izumi: It’s fine… Mom… I’m sorry I forced you through this… Are my kids… Alright…?  (He tears up).

Nagi: Yeah… They are fine… They weren’t involved with this thankfully….  (Looks at Izumi as straight faced and strong as he can manage).

Izumi: I see… I’m happy that they are safe… I caused a lot of destruction didn’t I… All for a dream that wasn’t real… Hitomi was right… I try too hard sometimes….

Shiro: (Smiles at Izumi with tears still falling as she pets his head).  It’s alright Izumi… You didn’t mean to… You were just blinded by grief… We understand… I just hope that your grief is put at ease from this and that you find peace and happiness in the next life you share with Hitomi… I am sure she waited for you… So go to her… And perhaps you can watch your kids grow from where every you go with her… They are strong and I know Kuro will watch out for his siblings with everything he has… He always has done that… He and Kura have always done that for Yami… And Yami though he cannot control his ability… I think once he does have at least a little he will be stronger than we could ever imagine… Because no matter what he gets back up… And never gives up… I hope you get to watch them grow from wherever you are going.

Izumi: Yeah… They are good kids… They all are… I just wish… I could have spent more time with them… They may hate me now… But who can blame them…? I haven’t been a good father to them… I did all I could… But I ended up just pushing them away… But they will all be strong… I know they will….  (His body begins to disappear from the energy leaving his body).  … Looks like my time is… Up, mom, dad… I’m going to miss our fights we had over food… I will miss my brothers and sister… But I will always miss you guys always loving me… So, I know I may not say this enough… But I love you guys… Goodbye….

Nagi: (Can’t talk straight as he is crying his eyes out trying to pull the pieces of energy back to Izumi).  No… Not yet… Give us more… Time… Please… I want to send him off with a smile… Not like this… Not like this!

Shiro: (Is crying heavily as she is breaking down as well holding Izumi close in one last hug with him and Nagi).  I’m sorry… But there’s nothing we can do… We did everything we could… It’s funny how we always ask for more time even if given it… But time moves on… And… That’s something that cannot be changed… Our time will end a little later as well and a new balance will be set in place… Izumi… my son… Goodbye… And here to make this passing more peaceful on you.  (Creates a small light seal on her finger and kisses Izumi’s forehead as her last goodbye.  She then places the small seal on his forehead that slowly makes Izumi sleepy and so it just feels like he is drifting off to sleep).

Izumi: … Goodnight….  (Falls asleep he feels familiar warmth he hasn’t felt in a long time feeling like a child falling asleep in the comfort of their mothers’ arms).

Shiro: (Izumi fades away in her and Nagi’s arms but with a smile on his face looking peaceful as Shiro has tears falling heavily but with a slight smile).  Goodnight… My son… Rest peacefully.

Nagi: And we may see you again… Well… I know we will because you are our son… And that won’t ever change… Goodnight.

 

It is the end of Izumi’s fight with Nagi and Shiro having done many things just to find the way to bring his family back together.  Nagi and Shiro have said their farewells to him once he snaps out of it feeling like he can let go.  That he can feel at peace as a gently and very familiar voice wakes him up.  He opens his eyes to a blank room with his head resting on someone’s lap.  He knows this feeling well as the person pets his head comfortingly.

??????: Izumi… Sweety wake up… The pains over now… It’s alright.

Izumi: Wait… I know that voice… H… Hitomi….

Hitomi: (Smiles down at Izumi in her lap as she places a hand on his cheek).  Yes Izumi… I told you I would save you a place by my side… And I have watched over you and our children all this time.  I felt like I couldn’t move on from watching you here.

Izumi: (He opens his eyes to see what he hears is true).  Hitomi… It is you… I’m so sorry… I couldn’t be a good father… I risked it all… Just to save you… And I pushed everyone away….

Hitomi: (Looks down a little).  I know… It’s alright, I understood and saw the pain you were in… That man wouldn’t have brought me back though… Maybe help Yami but not bring me back… And because of those pains in your mind, it blinded you… It’s not your fault… You were just valuable… And that man maybe took advantage of that… I just hope that our kids are strong enough without either of us to protect them… I worry for their safety… That world does not think well of you at all from what I have seen.  (She holds out her hand and a screen on the wall shows their kids Kuro teaching Yami some dark abilities as Yami tries to spar and win against him.  It is not working well for him as Kura knocks both of them over the head telling them to knock it off).

Izumi: True… And I know he did… I just was so scared and worried it got the better of me.

Hitomi: (Kisses Izumi’s cheek getting him to sit up so they can sit together and resting her head on his shoulder as she looks up at him).  Yes, I understand… And don’t worry now, here you will be at peace as we watch our kids grow.  (Heard from behind them as the people pass what looks like a hall in back of them and into another room).

Shiro: Good that you found her again and I’m glad you found peace at last!

Izumi: Well, I’m happy to spend the time with you then and watch over them… I am glad I did too.

Hitomi: Great… It will be nice being able to talk with you rather than just seeing and watching over you though I still worry without either of us there.  I won’t be watching over the children alone at least… We can do that together.

Izumi: I wouldn’t have it any other way… I love you Hitomi.  (He pets her head).

Hitomi: (Giggles a little kissing Izumi).  I love you too… You don’t know how long I wanted to sit with you like this.  I did sit with you a few times in that world… But you could see or feel me… You don’t know how badly I wanted to hold and comfort you… You looked so sad… So, broken… And I couldn’t do anything.   (Looks down as she starts to frown with a few tears forming).

Izumi: (He kisses Hitomi’s cheek).  It’s alright… No need to cry now… I always felt like you were there, but I thought I was crazy to believe that… But it gave me hope that you were still next to me… And that’s all I needed to live on… Was you pushing me forward and being loved… So, don’t feel bad now… Alright?

Hitomi: I know… Its better now… And you were not crazy… I was watching you and the kids… But something does worry me that is happening to them.  (Her hand waves over the screen again showing their kids in the crowd of angry people shouting and swearing at them about who their father is who is hated by most now at this point.  With Kuro keeping Kura and Yami back protectively and Yami biting one who gets to close.  Yami starts to take energy being angry making the crowd panic and back away most running and once they do, they quickly walk home to avoid any more trouble).  I’m worried Izumi….  (Looks at the screen of their 3 children the worry clear in her expression).

Izumi: (Can’t bear to look at the screen knowing the things he has done and all of the aftermath for it).  I am too… I’m sorry… I’m sorry… I’m sorry….

Hitomi: (Holds Izumi comfortingly).  I know… You were in a bad place, and you were approached when vulnerable, it’s not your fault… I blame the man that came to you with that hope of change more than anything… But I still see them smile being together… It makes me feel a little better seeing that. 

 

The screen shows the 3 in the bath Yami trying to fight Kuro again and trying to get out hating baths.  Kura knocks them both over the head placing a barrier to keep Yami in as he shouts grumpily rubbing his head.  They then get out soon after Yami’s hair is clean and train a little more.  Kuro helps Yami but he gets stuck in a shadow having to be fished out by him as Kura just laughs.

Hitomi: (Watches with a smile).  See they have fun times too… I hope it stays that way… I know Kuro will do his best to keep them safe.

Izumi: I know that… But still I’m scared for them… I don’t want things to end up being bad… I don’t want that to happen to them… It’s the last thing I wanted from this.

Hitomi: But all we can do is watch over them…. It’s not much but it doesn’t stop the worry.  (They continue to watch the screen showing their kids together.  They sit looking worried with some parts but smiling at others, but one comes along mainly causing them panic as they only can watch).

 

It is early morning on the screen in the distance.  Kuro and Kura first think it was sunrise, but it was an hour or 2 before it so that wouldn’t make sense.  They watched from the window and noticed they are torches from a mob of angry looking people.  All of them have a look of rage and hate.

Hitomi: (Covers her mouth seeing this).  No… What’s going on… No get out of there please… Please don’t do this to them… Run… Please I don’t want to see them here to… Not like this.  (Starts to panic standing up looking at the screen in fear).

Izumi: (Is blankly looking at the screen feeling the guilt weigh over him).  No… No… Get them out of there… People please… They are just children….

 

They do the first thing they think and that was to get out.  Kura grabs Yami who was wondering what was happening while wiping the sleep from his eyes.  Kuro leads the way downstairs.  By then the rioting mob bust down the doors and throwing their torches to the house.  Kuro fends off the raiders as they go out the back door.  He follows behind but they are trapped in a dark forest surrounding them and raiders closing in.

Hitomi: (Looks down not able to watch much more.  Her hands are close to her and holding tightly to each other as she begs for her kids to live as tears begin to fall).  No… Please… Don’t do this to them… Please….

 

The raiders are searching for them in the wood not seeing them yet but closing in.  Kuro is thinking fast looking at the area they are trapped in as Kuro keeps Kura and Yami behind him protectively.

Izumi: (Is holding Hitomi as they are watching the events unfold feeling guilt and fear for his children).

Hitomi: (Is shaking in Izumi’s arms in fear).

 

Kuro hugs Kura and Yami and tells them to hide in a mound of grass covered in shadows.  Kura could see a few tears start to fall down his face… But Kuro never cries… He always puts up a grin to look strong for them.  Kura tells him to hide with them, but he says he wouldn’t fit, and this was the only way.  He hugs Kura and Yami one last time and then pushes them in the mound of grass sealing them in a barrier.  Kura and Yami cry out no and try to get to Kuro who gives them a smile, yet tears fall then he turned to the raiders arriving as he picks up his broad sword.

Hitomi: (Her voice is shaking as she sees what Kuro is doing as tears fall heavily).   Kuro… what are you doing… No go with them… What are you doing…? Please… No….

Izumi: Kuro… I always knew you wanted to protect them… But it’s not time for you… Please don’t… It won’t be good for Kura and Yami… Don’t leave them just yet.

 

Kura after useless attempts to break the barrier she does all she can do and covers Yami’s eyes so he wouldn’t have to watch.  Kuro puts up a great fight taking many raiders out but in the end, there were too many of them.  Slowly he gets many fatal injuries fighting even with so many wounds that would usually kill someone from so much damage.  He continues fighting taking darkness just to do so.  Eventually the wounds start to take their toll and… He slowly falls to his knees and then onto the ground giving Kura and Yami a small smile like saying it’s ok as he falls.

Hitomi: (Hides her face looking away as tears fall even more not able to bare watching as her body shakes unable to say anything).

Izumi: (Can’t look either as he is seeing his first son die to protect his siblings.  He can’t bear the sight as he hides Hitomi face into his chest).

Kuro’s energy fades and the raiders leave once they believe he has disappeared to look for Kura and Yami who still cry in the shadows even after the barrier has faded only seeing an outlining faint shadow of Kuro that stays behind.

Hitomi: (As Kuro is dying, she still cries into Izumi’s chest breaking down heavily as the room changes a little.  A bed appears in the big room a few feet from Izumi and Hitomi as a shadowy figure starts to form laying on it like it is sleeping.  The shadowy specks of darkness are coming from up above into the shadowy figure on the bed the same kind of specks of shadow energy that came out of Kuro as he was being struck and was starting to fade).

Izumi: (He looks at the shadow energy being collected onto the bed he feels sad yet also happy though he isn’t sure why there is such a mix of emotions)

Kuro: (The figure on the bed forms more into a young man and looks more and more like Kuro with each second.  He sleeps peacefully still a slight breeze going through as he is not quite fully visible).

Hitomi: (Is still crying into Izumi’s chest seeing Kuro there making her cry more wishing she were not seeing him here.  She still is shaking from what she saw not able to go to Kuro who sleeps still just yet, not able to stand with her body weak from the emotions).

Izumi: (He keeps looking at the figure not wanting it to be Kuro, but he knows that this would happen as he breaks down as well).

Kuro: (Sleeps peacefully for a little bit after he is nearly visible then begins to twitch and move a little like he is about to wake.  He slowly opens his eyes staring at the blank ceiling with his mind still a little out of it and in a daze to comprehend where he is and what happened fully).  Wha… where?

Hitomi: (Looks at Kuro as he starts to wake up with tears still in her eyes not able to talk well while still shaking).  It’s true… He’s waking up… My son… Kuro… He’s….  (Is unable to finish what she says about Kuro).

Izumi: (He holds Hitomi as he looks at Kuro with worry and sadness in his eyes).

Kuro: (Grabs his head as he sits up a little and tries to shake off the day’s he is in).  Uh… Wait the pain… It’s gone… What pain… What happened, I remember….  (He thinks as he tries to remember, and his eyes widen as he covers his eyes falling back on the bed as he frowns looking up at the ceiling).  I see… I hope they made it out… I hope they can forgive me for not being with them anymore… I hope that they live on for me… Kura and Yami… I love you both… Please take care… Please… Do that for me….

Hitomi: (Looks at Kuro while being in Izumi’s arms still but cannot find words to speak yet as tears continue to fall).

Izumi: (Is silent as he looks at Kuro and cannot stop the train of thoughts and rushing emotions that are running through his head).

Kuro: (Sits up wanting to know where he had ended up looking around and seeing Izumi and Hitomi stopping for a moment in shock to process it as he whispers).  … Dad?  … Mom?

Hitomi: (Says in between tears trying to wipe them away).  Kuro….

Izumi: Hello… Kuro….  (Wipes his own tears as well).

Kuro: Wha-… What’s going on…?  (Still is in shock more from seeing his mother who’s been gone for longer and doesn’t really know how to respond to seeing his dad as he sits up more to sit straight on the bed).  Why are you guys here and mom… I missed you.

Hitomi: (Goes closer to Kuro and smiles).  I missed you too… But I wish you were back with Kura and Yami… I wish….  (Is unable to finish her sentence with a sorrowful expression).

Kuro: I see… So, I really am dead… Strange… Don’t feel completely gone… At least I did it to protect them… I did everything I could… I’m sorry I couldn’t do more.  (Looks down at his hands with a frown as he thinks about Kura and Yami and hoping that they are alright.  He also questions why his body still seems a bit shadowy when his parents are fully visible, but he shakes it off with more important things in his mind).

Izumi: (Goes by Kuro as he sits by him).  I know you did… I’m sorry for failing as your father… I wish I could have been there as well… But all I could do was watch… I’m sorry.

Hitomi: (Sits on the other side of Kuro hugging him).

Kuro: (Shrugs and then hits Izumi on the back).  Ehh don’t worry about it… I guess you would have a good reason for going… You said you would stay, and you don’t really break promises like that, so I guess something happened… Well, I guess you being here means you died too then so that’s probably why… Heard a lot of bad things about you though….  (Looks down).

Izumi: (Tears from breaking down all over again fall again while hugging Kuro).  That still isn’t right though… I just wanted everyone to be happy, so I tried… Keeping my promise… But all I did was cause s huge mess that got everyone involved… To the point they killed you for being my son… I can’t forgive myself.

Kuro: I know… Honestly, I wouldn’t either but that can’t be changed now I guess… And even though all that happened… I don’t regret my choice… I couldn’t fit and hide with them and besides they would think they ran, and I stayed to fend them off… Only thing I could do to keep them safe… But I took a bunch of those guys out with me… I trained all this time to protect them… And that’s just what I died doing… It’s strange I don’t feel like I’m all here though… Weird… I don’t regret doing that… And at least they can go to Nagi and Shiro for help I would think.

Hitomi: (Looks down).  I see… You don’t know then….

Kuro: (Gives a confused look).  Don’t know what?

Izumi: (He looks down as well).  Shiro and Nagi… Aren’t alive anymore… I’m sorry.

Kuro: (Looks down with them).  I see… Then they have nowhere to go… Not that I can think of… War makes a mess out of things… But I know they will make it through… I know it… They just got to hang in there… And live on and be happy for me… That’s all I want… Please…

Hitomi: (Hugs Kuro).  I think they will make it through though I see they are going through hard times.  (Looks at the screen on the wall of Kura and Yami on the street in an ally eating some food they had to steal as Kura has an arm around Yami comforting him, both looking sad).

Kuro: I see.  (Looks down not liking seeing Kura and Yami so lost).  I’m sorry I left them like that… I wish there was another way… But I can’t leave them like that!  I can’t move on just yet!  (His words are almost yelled at the screen determinedly to get back being too stubborn to stay like this.  The shadowy form of his body grows making him fade from them slightly, but he is not in the mood to notice).

Hitomi: (She lets out a small, surprised breath but other than that hugs Kuro to comfort him).  Neither could I.

Izumi: I would hope Tori could find them… But it looks like he is having his own problems at the moment… But I’m sure they will make it through this….

Kuro: (Looks at another wall that shows Tori).  Yeah… I guess everyone is struggling now… He’s back on the street with his family gone… I’m sorry Tori… I’m sorry….

 

The screen then shows Tori out of his home as well in another ally in the main city looking down as rain starts to fall.  He wears a cloak to hide his hair some being not very kind currently to those who are different having a lack of understanding creating a fear.  Tori having just heard rumors recently of Nagi and Shiro’s passing while fighting Izumi is why he decided to leave and now not being under their protection any more he tries to stay quietly away from others not wanting to cause trouble or bother anyone.

Tori: (He is just sitting there quietly as the rain falls upon him.  He could have stayed in the home with the other kids of Nagi and Shiro, but he didn’t want to be a bother to them.  He left the house for a little bit to clear his head, but he cannot help but have this huge amount of grief that is falling around him).  Why… I did so much to protect my life at their home… But they had to do what was right… Still… They could have at least said goodbye to me… Tell me the last things they wanted me to hear… I don’t care about the promise… I just want… Closer.  (He then overhears a conversation between people walking past him on the street).

????: Hey what’s up, any news?

???????: Just that raiders and bounty hunters found Izumi’s home with his kids.

????: That’s good to hear then.  Did they catch or kill them, can’t have them taking after their father?

???????: Nah just the older son.  I think the other two got away.

????: Well at least they got one, the sooner their found the better.

??????: Yeah, but I heard the oldest boy put up one hell of a fight.

????: Yeah, hope they get the other two though.  I heard the younger brother can take darkness so quickly it kills a dark spirit in no time.

??????: Yeah, I’m not going to handle that demon, I’ll leave that to someone else.  (The two walk away from Tori no longer able to be heard).

Tori: (Tears run down his face with his head kept down).  Kuro… Kuro… Huh… You always did say you wanted to protect… Well, I guess you did it… But damn it… I needed you now… I guess I should keep up the duty… To protect both of our families.

Kuro: (Tears up slightly watch walking towards the screen until he fads through it being on the street Tori is on but no one not even Tori seeing him standing in front of his best friend).  I’m sorry to… But I did what I had to… And I hope things work out… I’m sorry.  (Lifts his fist towards Tori, their silent promise they always did).

Tori: Yeah… I’ll keep your promise… I’ll protect everyone that matters to us… It was our dream… Wasn’t it, Kuro?  (He looks up at Kuro seeing the shadowy angel silhouette of him slightly).

Kuro: (Looks at the wing but is more surprised that he could contact Tori.  He also has a feeling of being more asleep than dead even if he just looks like a shadowy figure to him, he smiles and keeps his fist out to fist bump).  Thank you….

Tori: (Holds out his fist and fist bumps Kuro but it does not connect).  Time to keep my own promises now… Right, everyone?

Kuro: (Nods and fades away once Tori holds his fist out as well).

 

The whole thing seems to happen again as Tori is sitting with Kura and Yami and everyone else this current day out in the field.  They are finishing stories of the past as a shadowy figure only Tori can see comes in front him with red glowing eyes that hold out his fist up towards him once again).

Tori: (Looks at the figure and holds his fist as well feeling a similar presence standing before him).

Kuro: (The fist connects this time and Kuro nods and grins towards Tori with him only seeing the nod though).

Tori: Told you I would keep it… Kuro… I’ll see you again… Later….  (He begins to tear up as he holds his fist out).

Kuro: Thank you.  (Nods again and then fades away with Tori able to see Kuro fully for a second having a grin and tears as well.  Once he is gone it turns out he was facing Yami while doing this).

Yami: (Gives Tori a questioning look to why he has his fist out towards him being confused thinking he misheard his older brother’s name).  Dude what was that?  What are you doing?

Tori: (Does a small chuckle).  Oh nothing, nothing… Come on, let’s head back to the house to get lunch ready… It’s always a good time for food.

Yami: (Shrugs it off).  Yeah, food sound good. let’s go.  (As most get ready to go he sees Tori’s fist out still and reaches his fist out to connect with Tori’s not really knowing why).  There… I guess.

Tori: (He laughs a little bit).  Yeah… Don’t worry about it… It’s just a promise I made with someone a long time ago.

Yami: Ok, weird my brother used to do that sometimes… Oh well, come on let’s get some food already and then I’m training.  I need to get stronger if I’m going to win against you and those other times were a tie got it?  (He grins and runs to catch up with everyone then walks with Kura who’s next to Kairi as they go to eat).

Tori: Yeah… Kuro… You see… I’m doing everything I can… I won’t break this new home I have… Because we were best friends weren’t we…?  The only one who understood my resolve… But now I have many more things to protect so I won’t stop doing everything I can… I will reach the stars like I dreamed of doing but with everyone by my side.

 

As everyone is heading in to eat Jennifer is in an office study room looking over letters and paperwork she has on her desk.  She had not noticed a good amount of the wolves had come in through the door outside and are lying around her and the room being too focused on her work.

Chazz: (He comes in to give Jennifer her lunch since she went without breakfast this morning to catch up on paperwork).  Madam… I have lunch for you. (He says while knocking on her open door and having to pause seeing so many wolves gathered in the room).

Jennifer: (Breaks out of her concentration enough to say).  Come in.  (While still looking at her paperwork as she starts to read another letter for any news she had missed).

Chazz: (He sighs stepping carefully around the wolves).  How is everything going madam, anything new we should be aware of?

Jennifer: (Looks up at Chazz and smiles).  It is fine but yes one thing… This letter… It is from a few days ago saying that my mother will be visiting her estate here with head butler Rowen escorting her.  I am almost done I just need to find out when this is happening.  (She looks through the letter more).  It’s been so long since they visited but it looks like my father is still too focused on family affairs so he will not be joining.

Chazz: Ahh lady Cordelia is coming back is she… Hmm should I prepare something special for her since she does like sweets as much as you and Kairi do… Hmm let me see what I can do.

Jennifer: I suppose but I wonder if there is business she has near here.  It is a little early to come in for Kairi’s birthday if she is arriving tomorrow….  (Her words trail off as she looks at the end of the letter with her eyes widening as she pauses in shock as she says).  T-Tomorrow!

Chazz: (It takes him a second to connect the dots looking at the paper with Jennifer).  Oh, that is… Tomorrow.

Jennifer: (Is still trying to process it looking frozen as she stares at the paper).  T… tomorrow….

Chazz: (Has nervous words blurt of his mouth quickly).  I’m… Going to go tell… The rest of the staff.

Jennifer: Right….  (She stands dusting herself off a little taking a breath before giving a panicked look as she bolts out of the door).  Excuse me!  I need to go prepare!

Chazz: (Sighs).  As do I now don’t I?

 

Jennifer and Chazz rush around to prepare for company, Jennifer going to Kairi’s room to explain first and Chazz going to the kitchen as servants rush around with him.  At one-point Yami is kicked out of the room so he just wonders the hall after training with boredom.  He sees Chazz, Hiki and Tori rush the opposite way of the hall from Kairi’s room.

Yami: Hey what you guys up to?  Everyone’s rushing around here like it’s the end of the world or something.

Tori: Jennifer’s mother and the head butler are coming tomorrow for Kairi’s birthday, so everyone is kind of in a rush.

Yami: Oh yeah that’s in a week or something, I guess.  I still don’t see the big deal.  Why does everyone have to rush around?  Are they important or something?  (He shrugs).  And everyone keeps telling me to hide, don’t get why.

Tori: (Is the only one behind from the group of three).  Well, they are very important to everyone here since they are in charge of us.  Everyone just wants to make sure everything is in order when they come over… And they want you to hide so you aren’t careless around them since they don’t know about Kairi having powers so I’m guessing they want to keep it a secret.

Yami: Ok I guess still don’t get all of this but sure.  They kicked me out of Kairi’s room so I can’t really go back, something about her not feeling good and a little after that they just kicked me out saying girls only.  Don’t get why though.  (Shrugs).

Tori: I can think of why they did….  (He thinks to himself for a little bit as well as showing concern for Kairi hearing she is not feeling well).  Well, if you want someplace to hang out my master’s room should be good since we already cleaned it up plus no one should be going in there.

Yami: Alright and maybe I’ll do some training in the woods again, see ya.  (He waves and then walks past Tori casually with hands in his pockets).

Tori: Yes, yes when you want me to train with you just let me know.

Yami: (Grins back at Tori).  This time I’ll win if that’s a challenge!

Tori: Whatever you say Yami… See you around and make sure to avoid people.  (He waves his hand as he leaves).

Yami: Sure, see ya.  (Leaves as well).

 

Chores are being done as Chazz realizes Jennifer is still in Kairi’s room thinking she would be out by now.  He goes to check on her and Kairi with Hiki by his side.

Chazz: (Comes to the door to knock alongside Hiki).  Mis Jennifer is everything alright with Kairi?

Jennifer: (After a moment opens the door but not too much with her and Shizen blocking them).  Yes, everything is fine.  Kairi is just not feeling well is all.

Shizen: I gave her some herbal tea to help.  She should be fine by tomorrow morning.

Kura: (Stays with Kairi to help her as both Jennifer and Shizen answer the door).

Chazz: Are you sure?   Do you need me to bring anything?

Jennifer: No not at all, it is normal that she is starting to go through this.

Shizen: Yes, so do not worry though sorry for not letting you in.  (Looks at Hiki so she gets the hint).  It is normal for woman to go through this so let me handle this.

Hiki: (Gets what is going on immediately).  Ohh… Yeah master if it makes you feel better, but I will check on her alright?  Go on master and make sure everything else is fine with the staff.  (She says with a smile stepping in front of him).

Chazz: But I should-.

Hiki: Just get going master, I can handle this alright?  Do you not trust me?

Chazz: No, no it isn’t that but… Alright if, you are sure.  (He starts to leave knowing he cannot win).

Hiki: (Waves goodbye as she heads into the room).  Yes, I can help with this!

 

Hiki goes in to help Kairi as well and help explain somethings Kairi is a little clueless and confused about.  She drinks her tea with herbs and raspberries in it to make her feel better as the staff rush around until nightfall.  Some still stay up afterwards to prepare the whole mansion being in a rush for the company coming in the next late morning.  They want everything to be perfect and with everyone on their best behavior for being watched by the head butler who is in charge of them as well as the matriarch of the family.  Most are quite panicky as they rush around the rest of the day.