As morning arrives Jennifer still sleeps as Shizen sees Kairi outside by herself and training with her barriers with a cast over her shoulder, so she does not move it. As she is making a barrier and Shizen goes out the window to instruct her on what would help and Kura and Yami spend time together in Kairi’s room. Maru still rests with Luna by his side as she rests on the shoulder of the bed and Chazz is getting ready to wake Jennifer as Hiki and Tori go outside to help Kairi.
Hiki: (Stays with Kairi to help with the barriers.
Tori: (Leaves to come inside to see how Kura and Yami are doing but as he approaches, he hears faint arguing but not like the morning before).
Yami: Sis stop I don’t want to.
Kura: too bad.
Yami: You’re evil.
Kura: I know but you have to deal with it.
Yami: … I need help.
Kura: Oh, shush your hair’s a mess so be still.
Tori: (Knocks on the door). Umm what is happening you two?
Kura: You can come in if you wish. We are in the bathroom. I’m just getting Yami cleaned up since he hasn’t been doing a good job for himself it seems.
Yami: Stop it I’m fine, leave me alone I can clean myself!
Kura: (Sighs). So stubborn.
Tori: (Laughs while he stands by the door). No, I am fine here but how are your wounds.
Kura: I am fine though Yami has completely healed which is good although….
Yami: Don’t cry about it… It’s no big deal.
Tori: Well, you two just reunited fully so Yami take the smothering for now.
Yami: Fine I know but this is the last time I take a bath with you.
Kura: Well as long as you wash well from now on, I won’t have to do it for you.
Yami: But I don’t want to.
Kura: Too bad, you have to choose one or the other.
Yami: No fun.
Kura: Here I’m letting Tori in so finish up while I grab a towel. (Grabs a towel to cover herself up and opens the door to let Tori in as Yami sits grumpily in the bathroom). Sorry about that, did Kairi need something?
Tori: Not at all she just wanted me to check in on you two to see if you were better. Now I’ll go back and let her know.
Kura: Fine then and this time I covered up so don’t worry though your reaction was funny. Boys are so funny when it comes to that. (Laughs to herself).
Yami: (Walks by and stand beside Kura with his arms crossed and looking grumpy and Tori noticing there are scars all over his chest). Not cool sis.
Kura: … You have no shame do you.
Yami: (Shrugs). Just don’t care, am I done yet?
Kura: Fine as long as you’re clean.
Tori: (Sighs). Both of you are something alright though it’s none of my business and Yami we are going to talk about some of those scars later.
Kura: (Looks away a little bit to stop her tears from coming back and regain herself).
Yami: (Looks down for a second but then tries to shrug it off). … Fine… But no big deal.
Tori: (Notices Kura is holding back her emotions just like Yami). You two really are siblings because you think emotions are not needed. You have to let it all out sometimes, but I’ll be off. If you two can’t do that I am going to smack it into your senses.
Yami: Hey bring it, I’ll fight you now!
Kura: (Shakes her head as she laughs a little). Perhaps when you are dressed Yami, and he already told me about the scars on himself, so I already cried before you had come here.
Yami: Yeah, guess if you want to know you can ask when we get out there but it’s just stuff I dealt with really.
Kura: That I wasn’t there to stop it….
Yami: Sis it’s not your fault, I got through it.
Kura: I know… And you’re very strong for it.
Tori: (Hits both Kura and Yami’s heads). Now get dressed and be nice siblings. I told master Nagi I would keep an eye on you two and that includes your feelings.
Yami: (Holds his head). Hey not cool dude!
Kura: (Hits Tori back over the head). And that is pay back.
Tori: Yes, yes whatever you say. (Begins to leave and starts to gain light speed slightly as he leaves).
Yami: I’m paying him back for that.
Kura: Of course, you will now get dressed.
Yami: Yeah, I’m going, I’m going.
Kura: (Closes the door with a small smile as she looks the way Tori had left and then closes the door).
Kairi: (Sees Tori come back outside and runs to him happily). Hi Tori, are Kura and Yami alright. What were they doing?
Tori: (Is startled for a second). Oh, umm they were in the bathroom washing up but according to them they had fully healed. (Thinks to himself about what Kura had told him). Oh, wait never mind, I think Kura had maybe lied a bit, so she still needs to take a easy.
Kairi: They can take all the time they need.
Shizen: Yami is fully healed?
Tori: According to the two of them. (Shrugs).
Hiki: (Is sitting down as she tries to focus on her magic).
Shizen: Very well, I am glad they are doing better.
Kairi: I want to check on Maru too in a little bit. He got really hurt so I hope he is feeling better.
Yami: (Jumps out of the window as Kura runs after him and both being fully clothed as she chases after him but lags behind him being not fully healed but enough to be very stubborn). That is the last time I take a bath with you!
Kura: It’s your fault for not taking a bath for a month!
Yami: Go away!
Kura: Come back!
Kairi: (Stares at Kura and Yami with confusion).
Hiki: (Gets a little irritated as she tries to focus).
Tori: (Sighs and shrugs).
Kura and Yami: (Both continue to run and yell at each other until Kura uses her speed and rams into Yami and he looks a little dazed from it).
Yami: (Grabs his head). Nice going.
Kura: That’s what you get. (Grabs her stomach in a little pain since her wound had opened from the impact).
Yami: You’re the one who hurt yourself… You, ok?
Kura: I’m fine it’s just my wound opened a little.
Yami: (His expression changes to a frown in concern). And you call me an idiot.
Kura: … Quiet.
Tori: (Walks to Kura). Kura do you need Hiki to reseal your wound now?
Kura: I’m fine, it’s not as bad as yesterday besides it looks like she is focused.
Yami: You’re an idiot too then.
Kura: Quiet you would do the same. (Pulls on Yami’s ear).
Yami: Ow let go!
Hiki: (Sighs and gets up). I can’t actually try to focus with you two yelling now, can I? Now Kura come here anyways, you don’t want to risk an infection.
Tori: Told you.
Kura: (Sighs with a sheepish expression towards Hiki). Sorry to disturb you Hiki.
Kairi: Yami how are you all healed already?
Yami: (Shrugs). I don’t know.
Kura: He has always been like that when he has a lot of energy in him.
Hiki: I’m used to it by now but that’s what makes this place fun.
Kura: Yes, though it’s his fault for not wanting to be clean. (Goes over to Hiki as she smiles).
Yami: Hey!
Kairi: Are you sure you’re alright Yami?
Yami: Yeah, I’m fine, why don’t believe me?
Kairi: Well, you were hurt badly… Do you need Hiki to look at you too?
Yami: Nah I’m fine.
Kura: Don’t say it like that it will make it seem like you are lying.
Yami: Well, I’m not, I told you I’m fine so don’t worry about it.
Tori: They are still going to worry, and you know that.
Hiki: (Starts to heal Kura).
Yami: Yeah, I know, I mean if it makes her feel better, I’ll let Hiki try and heal me anyways but nothing really to heal.
Kura: (Laughs). It looks like you are this group’s doctor until I can help more so probably tomorrow.
Hiki: I don’t mind helping out, as long as I am helpful to everyone, I’m happy. I was just focusing on some new magic skills.
Tori: She’s always the best doctor.
Hiki: (Laughs). Do you want a sticker for being good?
Kura: (Laughs as well). Well, I am glad to have such a good doctor and what kind of skills were you learning?
Hiki: Just magic really and combining different elements.
Kura: I see, well we will let you focus then after you’re done healing me.
Yami: Yeah, sorry about that but it’s your fault for running by Kura: But I am impressed by how fast you healed, all that is left from that is a scar where the wound had been.
Kairi: How do you heal so fast Yami?
Yami: (Shrugs). Just a fast healer, I guess.
Hiki: Well, you’re done since I just had to reclose the wound.
Tori: (Sits next to Hiki). Well, I can try to focus as well.
Kura: Well, we will go somewhere else so that you can focus.
Kairi: I think I might check on Maru so do you want to come with.
Yami: Sure, why not.
Kura: Yes, I will go to then. (She and Yami stand and walk towards Kairi).
Yami: Bye, see you later then.
Kura: Yes, and thank you.
Shizen: Farewell you three and take an easy.
Hiki: (Yells to Kura as they leave). You better!
Tori: Oh, oh time to focus.
Kura: (Shakes her head and laughs as she leaves with Kairi and Yami). Very well you’re the doctor Mis Hiki.
Shizen: (Smiles and laughs a little). You can tell they are very close.
Hiki: Yes very.
Tori: (Stays silent as he focuses).
Shizen: Yes, do you mind if a watch you train in your magic. I will be quiet so you can focus.
Hiki: (Looks lost but smiles). That’s fine.
Shizen: Very well. (Smiles as she sits sensing the nature around her in her mind as she watches).
Hiki: (Gathers light energy into her hands and tries to mix loose nature into it).
Shizen: (Smiles as she watches being interested in how she is mixing her element then gets a thought). How good are you at using each other’s element?
Hiki: (Doesn’t respond as light energy becomes like a center of gravity for some vines which she makes the vines spin at high speeds and causes a small wind current).
Shizen: Interesting…. (Continues to watch as she plays with a vine, she is making grow in her hand as she thinks to herself).
Hiki: (The wind current then begins to mix with light energy as small spheres go around it).
Shizen: (Thinks to herself quietly). She is great at magic, that is for sure, and both know their second form and are quite good at it from what I have seen. All they need is to try using each other’s element and perhaps they will be ready depending on themselves.
Hiki: (The light in the sphere starts to turn dark with a fire in the middle).
Shizen: (Smiles with a little bit on a proud look). There it is, now if Tori can do the same with light, they may be ready, but it cannot be rushed. If I am right, they could be the youngest spirits to reach this amount of potential power.
Tori: (Ends up falling asleep where he was sitting).
Hiki: (Stops the gust of wind for a moment).
Shizen: (Laughs and shakes her head). Well perhaps I will find out another time…. Hiki you are doing well and making dark energy appear is impressive.
Hiki: (Breaths heavily from the effort). T-thanks… To keep control of everything at once was harder than I thought.
Shizen: And you did well though I would like to see if Tori can use any light abilities, though perhaps he should start by working on his focus.
Hiki: (Laughs). Indeed, but when he does it is great.
Shizen: So, he can… Interesting, then perhaps both of you are almost ready. (Thinks to herself if Hiki and Tori are ready or not).
Hiki: (Realizes what she had said). No, I meant he can focus sometimes.
Shizen: I am aware though I wish to see his skills as well when he wakes or if he can use your magic as well as you are using his.
Hiki: (Thinks). I don’t think so. He can do seals yes but not magic like this.
Shizen: Well, I would like to find out if he can use light abilities because if he can you will give me a lot to think about and perhaps even reach more power then you have right now if you are ready. One thing is for sure though is that both of you have the potential for it.
Hiki: We will find out but right now I’m just going to work with magic for now.
Shizen: Go ahead, I will be going into the forest for a little bit so I will be back later. A little training of my own will not hurt. (Stands up to get ready to leave).
Hiki: I will let you know when Tori wakes up.
Shizen: Thank you, I will be off then. (Smiles then zooms into the forest).
Meanwhile Kairi walks to Maru’s room with Kura and Yami right behind her.
Kairi: (Knocks on Maru’s door lightly).
Luna: (Gets up and answers the door).
Kairi: Oh, hello Luna, I umm just wanted to check if you and Maru….
Kura: … Hello Luna.
Yami: Sup.
Luna: (Is silent for a moment but then replies). Master Maru is still resting at the moment.
Kairi: … I hope you are fine too.
Yami: Yeah… No hard feelings, right?
Kura: (Still has a slight protective stare but holds it back). … If anything, we have you to thank for helping Yami and I reunite.
Luna: Well, I’m glad I could help I guess but yes right now I’m fine… Since I wasn’t in bodily harm.
Kairi: I didn’t mean if you were physically alright….
Yami: … Everything’s cool.
Kura: Yes, as long as we understand each other now.
Luna: Yes… Do you need anything else?
Kairi: No, we just came to check on you two.
Yami: Yeah, and if you need any more convincing that were not corrupt. I’m sure I can prove it again.
Kura: Though he puts it bluntly he means well. If you have any questions for us let us know.
Kairi: I can let you talk alone if you want me to leave, I understand.
Luna: Just drop the matter for now. The only thing that matters is that master Maru is fine.
Kairi: Well, he can take all that time he needs to recover.
Kura: Yes, we will come back later.
Maru: (Mutters to himself still being half asleep and feeling pain). K… Kairi….
Luna: (Is shocked and goes back to Maru’s side).
Kairi: (Goes to Maru’s side as well, looking worried and concerned). Maru are you alright… I know you got hurt really badly and I-I’m sorry… I…. (Gets a little teary eyed). I’m so sorry this happened.
Maru: (Is still not fully their as he slowly wakes up more). It’s… Fine I… Had hurt you… And everyone else, this… Is what I deserve….
Kairi: It is not your fault! It is not anyone’s fault; I just was so scared that I would lose someone that was a good person. It is not your fault Maru…. I am so sorry you got hurt so badly.
Maru: Maybe… I should… Have died, at… Least I would not see… Your sad face again….
Luna: (Has tears in her eyes as she puts a hand on Maru’s in her regret). Master Maru what are you saying?
Kairi: Maru no… Do not say that. I know you did not mean for this to happen, and I will not let you die here. I can help now since I learned a little basic healing stuff early this morning with Kura so maybe I can help make the pain go away a little.
Maru: No… No I… Got what I… Deserved….
Kairi: (Tears up as she tries to help Maru still cheer up). Please Maru do not be sad… I know you did not mean it… And I know Luna did not either…. She cares a lot about you and so do I so you have to live because you have people who care a lot about you….
Maru: Why would it matter if I hurt people, I care about… How could I face myself knowing I did this…? I let Luna take control, so I must take responsibility….
Kairi: (Cries as she reaches for Maru’s hand to comfort him). Do not say that… I know you did your best and I know that you did not mean to… And everyone is safe so there is no need to blame yourself.
Maru: (Looks away from Kairi in his sorrow thinking he does not deserve such kindness from someone like her). … Maybe I should die….
Luna: (Slaps Maru as tears run down her eyes).
Kairi: Do not say that!
Yami: (As he sits in the room looking up, he thinks back). You know you’re a big idiot for thinking like that… It gets you nowhere and all you do in the end is feel sorry for yourself and want to end it right then and there…. Does you and everyone else no good.
Kura: (Looks at Yami with surprise and a little bit of sadness).
Luna: What good would come from that! (Tears flow and fall onto Maru’s face as she hold it). I already lost my family to that incident! … I don’t want to relive from this feeling again….
Maru: (Stares at Luna with shock being unable to speak a word).
Luna: What makes us strong… Is the belief in each other… I’m sorry my rage blinded me but we are a pair to the end… Your pain is my pain… It’s our strength of us together as we are now… Don’t think of leaving me again ever… Master Maru….
Maru: (Begins to cry heavily as well).
Kairi: Everyone here cares about you very much Maru and especially Luna since you have a very strong bond so think of how sad Luna would be if you were gone. You do not want that do you?
Yami: (Still looks up as he remembers his past with a frown knowing Maru’s feelings well as Kura hugs him from behind to comfort him).
Maru: (Had fallen back to sleep from the shock and the tears).
Luna: Master… Stupid master….
Kairi: Maru….
Yami: Idiot… But I remember thinking like that though at least he is not alone… Not a good feeling but even I survived it when having no one….
Kura: (Starts to tear up as she holds Yami).
Yami: … But he can survive it too… Especially with the support he has.
Luna: (Focuses on Maru only holding him tighter).
Kairi: (Puts a hand on Luna’s shoulder to comfort her though she is still crying). I know he will be alright… I can tell you care a lot about him.
Luna: Hearts feelings of pain and sorrow alone are immature. The feeling of lost in the moonlight yet together they feel as one and a path through the night is shown. That’s what master Maru has taught me.
Kairi: And I am sure when he wakes up again, he will realize he is not lost anymore because of you… You care a lot about him… Could you maybe even say you have feelings for him in some way (smiles up at Luna).
Luna: Not at all.
Kairi: Oh, alright sorry, whenever I see a very strong bond, I automatically think that.
Luna: (Laughs). As much as the thought is nice, master Maru couldn’t see me like that because he has you. Plus, I think that I see him more as a child to me… For a reason.
Kairi: (Her eyes widen). So, like a mom… And I know he likes me I just… I do not know… There are two people I care a lot about but… I am just very confused…. (Looks down a little).
Luna: (Pets Kairi’s head). Just take your time to figure it out but no I have no special feelings in any of those ways for master Maru as there is someone in the spirit world who already has… had my feelings.
Kairi: oh, so you have someone in the spirit world then, well whoever it is there lucky to have you.
Kura: (Smiles at Kairi).
Yami: (Still thinks to himself, not really paying attention).
Kairi: They must be really lucky then.
Luna: I would guess so…. (Looks down as she stares at Maru again).
Kairi: Well one thing for sure, Maru’s lucky to have you looking after him. When did he meet you?
Kura: If it’s been a few years, you probably were there for him to help him grow up and you can help him grow up still. You can help him through this as well.
Luna: I did meet him a while ago, maybe two years have passed since I first had met him.
Kairi: Well then you know him well enough to help him not feel sorry for himself anymore because he should not blame himself… I will admit though that I did the same thing at first.
Luna: (Smiles slightly). Well, yes you did more than likely and don’t worry, I will handle him. No need to worry about master Maru.
Kairi: Well, I will worry about both of you so you cannot tell me not to.
Yami: He is still an idiot for thinking like that.
Kura: Don’t put it in a rude way.
Yami: It’s true, I should know. It gets you nowhere and if I had gone through with it those times, I wouldn’t have seen my sister again….
Kura: (Holds Yami tightly again). Yami….
Luna: True it’s silly for master to think like that but he feels responsible. He always wants to take responsibility for what he has done but he will be over it after some thinking and talking about it.
Kura: Exactly, this mood will pass in time.
Yami: It did for me.
Kairi: I know Maru wants me to smile but he needs to smile too and then everyone else will smile too.
Luna: He gets a bit selfish like that because sometimes he just fights to protect the smile, he likes the most which is why he tried so hard to regain control.
Kura: And he did well. Wanting to protect is a good trait to have.
Kairi: Do you need anything, if you do just ask.
Luna: Nothing for now but… Later today master Maru and I will be going home.
Kairi: … As long as he is fine to travel and please when he wakes up and is able to move, please let us say goodbye before you leave at least.
Kura: I can also bring breakfast for you, or another can if you are hungry.
Luna: (Sits down on Maru’s bed with a slight smile). Even after all I have done you still are nice to me… My rage really was misguided… Yes, I could use something to eat.
Kairi: I know you feel badly but it is alright I understand.
Kura: Yes it’s hard to forgive but on the other hand because of you my brother knows who I am so in a way thank you.
Yami: (Smiles a little as he stays silent and thinks).
Luna: (Smiles as she lies down on the bedside as she looks rather tired).
Yami: (Frowns a little as Kairi and Kura get up to leave). Luna… I’m sorry my dad made you lose so much… You said that, that incident made you lose your family… I’m so sorry…. (Puts his head in his hands).
Kura: Yami….
Luna: Forget about the past. The more I worry about it the less I can move… forward…. (Smiles and nods sleepily as she closes her eyes to regain more of her energy with some rest).
Yami: (Smiles and looks up then stands as Kura hugs him). You and me both.
Kairi: Sleep well and things will be a lot better now. (Opens the door for Kura and Yami and smiles back at both Maru and Luna before she closes the door).
Meanwhile Jennifer is in her room as she thinks to herself about Chazz and overhearing him and Hiki with paperwork on her desk as she sits looking at the papers as Chazz heads to her room.
Chazz: (Knocks on the door with some tea for Jennifer).
Jennifer: (Quickly snaps out of her daydream shuffling her papers). Come in.
Chazz: (Walks in). Good morning milady how is the paperwork.
Jennifer: Oh, hello Chazz, thank you for the tea and the paperwork piles up after a few days of ignoring it. There is some troubling news however, our households rank has gone up a little since some families have mysteriously fallen. (Frowns as she says that).
Chazz: Well, there has to be more work then and we will have to be more careful then. (As he puts the tea on Jennifer’s desk).
Jennifer: (Nods and sips the tea). Yes, my mother sent me a letter from the capitol. Apparently, the mansions of those nobles had burned down, and they are still looking for survivors. It was so bad we should have been moved to being ranked 10th to 5th but we are going to be 7th.
Chazz: (Nods). Things keep getting more and more interesting, don’t they?
Jennifer: Indeed, but it does not look like it is in a good way which worries me. In the meantime, it gives me more paperwork, but I will see if I can find any more news.
Chazz: Well, I will help in any way I can Madam Jennifer.
Jennifer: For now, the tea is good enough, but could you see what Shizen is doing? I have not seen her this morning.
Chazz: (Bows). As you command milady. (Begins to leave).
Jennifer: No need, I will be doing this paperwork for a bit today… Thank you… For being there for me. (Blushes with a small smile).
Chazz: (Smiles). Well, I can say thank you as well since you were there for me as well.
Jennifer: Yes, you have been by my side for a while now and it has helped a lot to have you there… And I can say that I care about you as much as Hiki does… Thank you…. (Smiles and looks at Chazz).
Chazz: Oh do… Y-you now. (He stutters around your room as he is leaving and hitting his face first into the wall as he turns to leave missing the door feeling flustered).
Jennifer: (Looks concerned though giggles slightly). Are you alright?
Chazz: (Gets up very quickly with a big blush across his face as he stumbles out). E-excuse me!
Jennifer: (Giggles as Chazz stumbles out then smiles to herself once he is gone as she says to herself). One day I will be able to tell you how I feel like Hiki did… One day. (Continues to smile to herself as she gets back to her paperwork).
Meanwhile outside as Hiki and Shizen train in separate areas and Tori sleeps near Hiki.
Shizen: (Meditates in a clearing in the forest as the nature around her moves slightly).
Hiki: (Continues plays around with her magic).
Shizen: (Opens her eyes and a tree grows quickly as she places her hand on the tree and concentrates as birds fly away from her area being startled by the tree and fly in the direction Hiki is at).
Hiki: (Glances and sees about 30 birds fleeing Shizen’s area and as the birds fly away, she aims light energy at her feet to help her see by making her float into the air seeing a odd looking tree growing up taller than the rest at a un normal speed. It then moves around as if swinging at something as it grows limbs from large branches. She sees shimmers of a green glow that the tree is swatting at as she yells out). Shizen control your tree!
Shizen: (Yells back at Hiki as she dodges the tree very quickly while turning to look at Hiki as she does this effortlessly). I am, I am controlling it to fight me!
Hiki: (Gives a confused look). Why?
Shizen: Needed to let loose a little so I’m going all out! (As she says this the tree grabs her, but she makes a vine slash at the tree and its limb falls but grows back the part that was cut off forming a smaller tree being that attacks her as well).
Hiki: (Sits down in the air still being confused as she watches and plays around with light and fire energy).
Shizen: (Slices at the trees until there are four of them then going into her second form and attacks them back at a increased speed and power. She dodges every move but then gets grabbed and is no longer seen since in the grip of the biggest of the trees).
Hiki: (Stands up after adding some dark energy to the two elements in her own practice).
Shizen: (A burst of green light lasting for only a few seconds and a wave of energy that Hiki can feel the wind from where she is comes from her. She breaks through the trees grip and instantly going from one tree to another at great speeds and the trees fall. She is wearing a green huntress armor with some shining silver armor and borders along with some brown. She has a cloak and hood also designed the same way with a bow the looks like it is made of two silver blades instead of a wood. The trees fall behind her with a hood over her head with a smirk).
Hiki: Yes, yes but I need to clean your mess now, don’t I? (Sends three energies to under the trees as she says this waving her fingers. A sudden black and white hole goes under the trees with fire coming from it and sucking in the tree).
Shizen: (Powers down to her second form as she walks casually over). Not bad, I have to say your magic abilities are quite impressive. If I had not known better, I would say Shiro had given you a lesson or two.
Hiki: Not done yet. (Fire pillars go up with flame hands to pick up the last of the trees).
Shizen: (Smirks). You are lucky I had told the animals to leave this area, but you are quite good at magic. Perhaps much better than I am but could you use dark energy without another element? (Looks at Hiki and the pillars of fire being interested).
Hiki: (Thinks to herself as the pillar like hands of fire finish collecting the tree pieces almost like a illusion). I’m not sure. (Holds out her hand and dark energy starts to gather but looks unstable).
Shizen: Hmm it may be unstable but it clear you can. Now if Tori does some light energy then that’s all the convincing, I need. (As she says that she casually shoots an arrow at Tori and it lands a inch away from his head as he sleeps and she looks at Hiki the whole time she does that).
Hiki: (Unknowing to her the dark energy starts to blend with light energy since she is staring at Shizen).
Tori: (As he sleeps his reflexes make him pull out his sword as dark and light magic wave the arrow away).
Shizen: So, he can… Hmm you both have the potential to become the strongest spirits in your age group. It is amazing how fast your abilities are growing.
Hiki: (Gives a confused look).
Tori: (Starts to wake up). W-what’s going on.
Shizen: (Hops down from the small platform made by Hiki’s magic). I shot an arrow at you as a test to see if you are ready.
Tori: Ready for what? All I know is that I pulled out a sword.
Shizen: Yes, you have very good reflexes and it’s because I did this. (Casually shoots another arrow at Tori, aimed at the same area and less than an inch from Tori’s head).
Tori: (Pulls the arrow out of the tree).
Shizen: Good now that you are awake, and I know that both of you can make each other’s element I think you have to become even stronger than your second forms if you have the will and determination.
Hiki: (Floats back down to Tori and Shizen). Have a good nap, Tori?
Tori: (Smiles). Yeah, was pretty good.
Shizen: Good you will need it. If you agree I am going to start training, you to use your 3rd form.
Hiki: (Both her and Tori give a confused yet interested look). Why now?
Shizen: You are using both light and dark. Tori, I think you do that without even realizing it and yes even though you are contracted to the same person it still takes great skill. Perhaps your master should be here to hear this as well.
Chazz: (Walks out as soon as Shizen mentions him). Hear what?
Hiki: (Runs over to Chazz giving him a big hug). Master!
Shizen: (Smiles). Well, you have good timing. I was just talking about whether your spirits are ready to learn their 3rd form.
Hiki: (Doesn’t let go of Chazz).
Chazz: Well, what do you think Shizen?
Shizen: It is not something that is easy to learn, and some have died trying to learn in because something in themselves held them back. The only ones who know this form are the first generation and some of the second. They clearly have the skills of a second when combined easily. They have the potential to become even stronger as well.
Tori: (Walks behind Chazz as Hiki still clings to him).
Chazz: Well, when they are serious, they can be like a first generation, and I will support them in this. They wish to be stronger for their own goals.
Hiki: To protect the people I care about the most, more than anything else.
Tori: To prevent a disaster and from innocent people being caught in it and to live up to my master’s legacy.
Shizen: (Smiles more). Hiki, you have the thinking of a guardian and Tori the ideals Nagi fought to protect. If you are this passionate about these then do you think you can learn it? It will be difficult, but do you think you can learn this yourselves, that you are ready?
Hiki and Tori: Yes! (Hiki gets off Chazz and gets her sword unsheathed as Tori does the same as he stands in front of Chazz).
Shizen: I see then… Well in that case I will teach you, but I will not hold back since I will be fighting you and I will not be holding back myself. For you to learn it you need to reach the point where you can no longer fight and then keep fighting.
Hiki and Tori: Yes, we understand.
Shizen: I understand then, if you really want to learn you will have to fight me at full strength. I will as well to break you and one of these fights you will feel like you have no hope of winning as you get to your breaking point, but my question is can you break past that. I believe you can but even so I will fight you and not hold back.
Hiki: Please do, here we come! (Both ready their swords as they go into battle stance).
Shizen: (Grins with a small smirk as well). My, my so eager but let’s move away from here. I do not want to accidentally destroy the mansion, follow me. (Goes into her second form again and runs the opposite direction from where the mansion is and moving past the forest at a high speed and reaches a field).
Hiki and Tori: (Chase after Shizen as Chazz follow close behind being interested).
Shizen: (Waits at the field and once Chazz, Hiki and Tori are there she kneels with a hand on the ground as she sets a very strong barrier around the area). This is just in case.
Hiki: This is going to be something isn’t it?
Tori: I believe so.
Shizen: It will be difficult, but I know you can reach it. It may take many attempts and not even be reachable until in the level of danger. I suggest that you go into your second form now… You will need it. (As she says this she concentrates on her own energy as she starts to glow a green light and so does her bow as she powers up).
Hiki and Tori: (Accepts Shizen’s advice and change into their second forms with light and dark energy coming out of them individually).
Shizen: (Her outfit changes to a green shirt and pants that are easy to move and fight in. It looks like it is made of plant life with a hood and shining silver armor that is on her chest, wrist guards, waist and part of her hood and her bow becomes sharp looking like two silver short curved swords connected by the hilts that are green with a plant design on the blades).
Hiki: Ohh pretty. (As her swords burn with holy fire).
Tori: (His weapons paint a circle like cover around the handle with a katana blade).
Shizen: (Nods with a serious look in her eyes). Are you ready?
Hiki: (Nods as her cloths begin to change and she gains a white headdress with a scarf that floats around her arms).
Tori: (Nods as well as his clothes change to a black outfit that resembles the clothes Kairi had gotten him as a gift).
Shizen: Very good now come at me when you are ready and that will be the start of this.
Hiki and Tori: (Both stand ready to charge). Let’s go!
Shizen: (Loosens her shoulders and readies her bow but disappears automatically standing behind Hiki and Tori and hitting them in the back with the dull part of the blade on the bow in the next second).
Hiki and Tori: (Kicks back as they charge in with great speed in the same swift motion).
Shizen: (Dodges both and notices Tori is using part of the light speed ability and smirks. She then charges right in-between both Hiki and Tori using her bow on their feet making them trip as she runs past and quickly turns to face them).
Hiki: (Charges in with a fire wall to cut off Shizen’s escape or at least delay is as she jumps above to attack).
Shizen: Very smart to use fire magic. (Her bow detaches in the center making two curved blades as she blocks and pushes both Hiki and Tori back with each blade).
Hiki and Tori: (Hiki charges after Tori with holy flame swords reaching around Tori).
Shizen: (One of the tree beings that Shizen fought earlier grow quickly and block and punched as Shizen strikes still with the blunt of the sword from behind as the tree fights but slowly burns).
Hiki and Tori: (Both of their swords cut through the tree with ease as it falls into ashes).
Tori: (Uses the cover of his sword to stop Shizen for a second by hitting her while she strikes).
Shizen: (Jumps back as she grows some animal features that change every now and then to give her what she needs and right then getting the features of a bear and striking at Tori with one of her swords at full force to give her more strength).
Tori: (Takes Shizen’s sword and holds her there with his other sword).
Hiki: (Charges in with light speed faster than before and she gather a ball of light and dark energy which she connects with Shizen put as much power as possible into the attack). Balance sphere!
Shizen: (Uses all her strength as Tori holds her using momentum to throw up and kick Tori into Hiki but takes a direct hit to the armor on her chest which glows green from the impact. She is forced back slightly, taking a breath as she makes a vine to throw back her sword and connects it with the other sword as she pulls back the bow with a glowing green arrow).
Hiki: (Breaks the spheres off her hand and combines it with her swords to do more damage as Tori recovers himself).
Shizen: (Fires arrows that glow heavily with power directly at the sword to force Hiki back then two more of the same arrows directly at both Hiki and Tori).
Hiki: (Manages to stop the arrows but gets knocked back a bit by the impact).
Tori: (Brings out his darkness blades to defend himself).
Shizen: (Sets 10 more green arrows at once to her bow and fires them all at once at Tori then sets 10 more to fire again).
Tori: (His blades make a barrier in front of him as he is forced to be offensive).
Hiki: (Charges in from behind Tori with a jump).
Shizen: (Fires again and then charges in immediately striking right after the arrows with the bow that she switches to swords again).
Hiki and Tori: (Tori blocks the shots as Hiki strikes back at Shizen as the two alternate quickly while striking).
Shizen: (Blocks both watching carefully of their teamwork. Vines then sprout from the ground boosting her to jump high above them then at the peak height forms hawk wings on her arms and falls at a rapid speed directly onto Hiki and Tori with great force. She strikes down at them like becoming a giant version of her arrow herself making a crater form from the impact).
Hiki and Tori: (Manage to hold the impact off with a barrier and a seal from the both of them).
Shizen: (Hops away and charges at both getting wolf features as she does so making her instincts even clearer and able to predict movements better as she strikes at full force able to push both Hiki and Tori back).
Hiki and Tori: (Hiki holds off Shizen while Tori charges in as his speed increased with his blade begins to show cracks of light in his swords making them stronger as he manages to hit Shizen).
Shizen: (As the armor is hit it cracks a little and makes a small cut as she dodges back looking surprised by the cracks in Tori’s sword. She smirks knowing that they are gaining a little power over time but knowing they need more). Well have to say this is a very good warm up you are giving me. (Charges again but disappears only to then have blades to Hiki and Tori’s backs).
Hiki and Tori: (Are shocked and cannot recover as well besides just jumping away).
Shizen: You’re doing well but…. (As they jump back Shizen disappears again and kicks both in the back making them fall forward). There still is a lot for you to learn.
Hiki and Tori: (Recover quickly as they strike faster and faster, the impact of their slashes are heavier as their swords start changing to each opposites colors determined to give this their all).
Shizen: (Her eyes widen to the change but smiles being proud of how fast of learners they are, but the ground shakes a bit and a tree starts to grow in-between and blocks them and runs to the side as she fires arrows and charges again).
Hiki and Tori: (Both keep up with Shizen as Hiki shoots mini light fireballs at the tree while Tori cuts it being in pursuit of Shizen).
Shizen: Fire is such a difficult thing, but I must admit that you learn quickly. Remember when Luna said there was a tree monster that gave many spirits even fire trouble. Well let’s see how you handle a small one. (As Shizen places her hand that glows green on the ground she makes her eyes glow as well. A tree hand grows up being as big as the tree monsters from before when Shizen was fighting one and grabs Hiki as it comes out of the ground still and slaps its other hand that emerges down on Tori).
Hiki: (Holds out her hand after struggling for a few seconds as her hand holds ground and light fire suddenly start falling and hitting the tree in big clumps). Meteor shower!
Tori: (Stands by and readies his blade being covered in darkness).
Shizen: Well, done but you forgot about me. (As she says this, she hits Tori in the back of the head with the hilt of her sword then jumps up using Tori’s shoulder to do so and landing as she slashes at Hiki with the dull part of the blade as the tree falls but still holds onto Hiki’s waist).
Tori: (The him that Shizen had hit was made of darkness as Tori jumps down and lands slashing Shizen directly bring her down to a newly formed crater he made from the impact of his hits as his dark magic flows from him).
Shizen: (Blocks but gets a deep cut in her arm backing up as she dodges. The tree hand does not fall completely but starts to though still wrapped around Hiki a bit as Shizen looks at her arm that is hard to move now and extends it to remove her arm with her blade swiftly. She shrugs it off as plant life wraps around and becomes her new arm). Perhaps using the back of the blade is not good enough but then again, I don’t want to lose control and kill you on accident.
Tori: Who said I was using my blades at all. (Reveals he has been using his darkness blades and not his real weapon that are still in the sheath).
Shizen: (Laughs and shakes her head). Fairpoint, I never liked this type of serious training, but you are almost there. You are remarkable learners and if you practice like this for another few days you will achieve 3rd form or perhaps not until your next struggle. I have faith that you can so feel proud. You are doing what most spirits take decades or even centuries to learn. (Bows in respect with a smile and as she bows the tree monster falls behind her hard creating a huge smokescreen from dirt).
Hiki: (Stands next to Tori). I don’t like to either and big trees make them not cute anymore.
Shizen: (Smiles and laughs). Oh, come on now. Would you prefer I attack you with plants shaped as puppies? (Just then plants rise a little next to Hiki forming plants the move looking like the wolf pups from yesterday).
Hiki: (Giggles at the plant life puppies). Maybe, maybe.
Shizen: Do you wish to continue again tomorrow then? You are close to the third form. I started to see you two balancing each other’s element between each other, but it can’t be rushed. Usually, the idea just clicks when the person is fighting for their ideals and passions whether it is to protect or carry your teacher’s legacy.
Hiki and Tori: (Both bow to Shizen). Thank you for the lesson.
Shizen: (Bows back to Hiki and Tori). Well, I am lucky to have such fast learners like you. It is very impressive indeed, but we should head back.
Tori: Yeah, I think so since that barrier you made is about to break and the fires burning a bit too much so yes.
Hiki: (Blushes as she realizes she had messed up and starts to get water over the fires).
Shizen: Right nature is not very good with fire I suppose but it is my element, so it was a smart move to use fire since nature is my only magic.
Hiki: (As she is busy getting all the fires out). In all honesty that was my first time doing that type of magic fighting.
Shizen: And you did very well but I cannot use other elements of magic like you, so I find it impressive.
Hiki: (Smiles). I just could after a while. I could mix and match different elements and create new things. It’s easier to work with your own buts its more effective to work with different ones.
Shizen: Yes, I have tried using different elements many times, but my abilities are pure nature like all 1st generation spirits in their own element. We can only master all our element, but we can’t even do basic magic in other elements. Shall we leave though, it is past lunchtime I believe. (Turns to Chazz). We are done with this for now. It will take a few days, but I have to say I am impressed with your spirit’s growth.
Chazz: (Laughs). Well, I told you they are quite hard to take down and especially stubborn.
Hiki: (Scratches her head). I’m not sure if that last part was a compliment or not but thank you master. (Runs towards Chazz and latches onto him again).
Tori: (Just dusts himself off and sheaths his sword). Well, it was something we were even in battle.
Shizen: (Laughs). Come on let’s get going. People are probably wondering where we ran off to. (Starts to walk into the forest in order to get back to the mansion as she powers down into her casual clothing and normal wooden bow). And Tori, Nagi would be very proud of how far you have come.
Tori: (Is shocked at first by the comment but then smiles). Thank you Shizen.
Shizen: (Gives a small smile and nods back at Tori as they walk but once walking a little in the forest, she sees something that catches her attention and walks towards it).
Chazz, Hiki and Tori: (They all see Shizen’s concern and follow her curiously).
Shizen: (As she gets closer everyone sees the statue of Luka and Zahir made of poisonous plants Jennifer had made at the end of the fight with Luka. Looking at Zahir she frowns and speaks to herself being troubled by something ever since the end of that fight). I am sorry I am not there to protect you and the others, but I hope you are safe and have found your way back to her.
Hiki: (Stands next to Shizen). If you’re worried why not go find him?
Shizen: (Looks surprised but then takes a breath and smiles at Hiki). I wish that I could, but I am contracted so I must not leave the child’s side.
Jennifer: … Then why don’t I go with you? (Walks away from a tree she had been hiding behind looking concerned).
Shizen: No, I can’t put you in harm’s way like that child. The spirit world can be a dangerous place for humans.
Jennifer: But I don’t want you to constantly worry if their safe or not… And it’s been bothering me too since that fight….
Chazz: And who said you would be going by yourselves? (Stands with Hiki and Tori on the ready). Wherever milady goes, I shall go with.
Shizen: (Laughs to herself). I am lucky to have such caring young ones by my side but really, I am fine, and I am sure they are fine….
Jennifer: You are lying. Your worried sick, aren’t you?
Shizen: (Sighs and looks down). True I do care about each and everyone as if they were my own child and it pains me to see them suffer so much and not know if things are improving or not.
Hiki: Then let’s go. Come on, I can open a gate if you want. (Readies the magic in her hands).
Tori: Wouldn’t be a bad idea. Let’s introduce ourselves to your family Shizen.
Shizen: (Sighs again with a small, defeated smile). I see there is no point in arguing with you but let’s prepare to go early in the morning so we can ready ourselves and be well rested.
Jennifer: I can agree with that I guess if, you are sure.
Kairi: Wait I am going to! (Runs to everyone from behind Chazz).
Jennifer: Kairi how did you get here… Well, it might be dangerous so I would like you to stay here please….
Kairi: (Gives a determined and stubborn look). No, I want to help too!
Jennifer: Kairi please I want you to stay safe.
Kairi: No, I want to help to and plus I want to see what it’s like where spirits live.
Jennifer: (Sighs). You are as stubborn as me.
Hiki: (Laughs along with Chazz and Tori). Well, she is your sister.
Chazz: It cannot be helped. You just have to let it happen since Miss Kairi is still young yet strong.
Tori: Plus, she has Kura and Yami to protect her.
Hiki: (Smirks at Tori). I thought you were going to say you can protect her Tori.
Tori: (Looks shocked with a slight blush). W-what, I will if I need to, or master will have my head.
Kura: (Appears from Kairi’s mind and Yami does the same). We will protect her with everything we have.
Yami: Wait didn’t we prove that yesterday?
Chazz: You did, it is just nice to restate it sometime.
Yami: (Grins as he sits casually against a tree). Yeah, just don’t expect me to do the same for you guys.
Kura: Just keep acting tough little Yami.
Yami: (Pouts grumpily). Sis don’t call me that.
Jennifer and Hiki: (Both laugh at what Kura’s nickname to Yami again).
Yami: Hey no laughing at me!
Jennifer and Hiki: (Continue to laugh).
Yami: (Gets annoyed as he pouts more). Stop it, it’s not funny!
Hiki: Sorry, sorry I couldn’t help it.
Yami: Still not funny.
Kura: But yes, we will protect Kairi since I know she will not listen to her sister.
Kairi: Nope, I am going to.
Jennifer: (Sighs). Fine but stick close to us at all times got it.
Kairi: Alright yay I cannot wait! (Smiles excitedly).
Shizen: well, I see there is no point in arguing but thank you for helping me is the least I can say.
Hiki: You can’t win against these two besides themselves.
Chazz: (Laughs a little bit).
Jennifer: Well, when I heard how much trouble poison spirits were having, I was worried too. Also, I am worried about Zahir and if he got back home so maybe we can visit him and see if he is safe as well as his wife he mentioned. He seemed to care about her so much, so I really hope they reunited.
Shizen: Very well, we will leave early tomorrow so do everything you need to today.
Jennifer: Right and do not worry. We will do everything we can to help.
Hiki: Yes, I will work on my magic skills until tomorrow.
Tori: Got to train some more.
Chazz: Well now I cannot avoid this now, can I?
Hiki and Tori: Yes, master let’s fight!
Chazz: (Grins). Yes, yes.
Shizen: (Smiles). Well, you three have fun.
Jennifer: I will need to tell some that I am leaving for a few days on a trip and Chazz is escorting us so let me do that now as a excuse.
Kairi: I think Maru and Luna are leaving soon so I want to say goodbye before they leave, or I hope he did not leave already… I will go check bye! (Zooms off to the mansion).
Jennifer: (Laughs and shakes her head). Well, if you three are training please come back for dinner so everyone can eat a big meal and sleep well before we leave.
Chazz: I will be cooking dinner along with the chief so I will not be here long.
Hiki: (Jumps on Chazz like a koala holding onto his back). You need to train with us more first. More hugs too!
Chazz: (Sighs and nods his head). Yes, yes.
Jennifer: (Laughs and blushes). Well have fun. (Starts to walk away with Shizen but smiles as she leaves a look at Hiki saying quietly). And Hiki your very brave, you did something I cannot do.
Kairi: (As she runs with Kura and Yami by either side of her she sees a carriage at the front of the mansion and Maru being helped outside by Luna). Maru wait!
Maru: (Stops and stands beside Luna).
Kairi: (Runs and stops facing Maru as she catches her breath and pouts a little). Maru, I want to say goodbye to both of you before you leave so, please do not leave before that….
Maru: B-but… But I said some bad things. I thought you wouldn’t want to see me, or I did not want to see you because of that….
Kairi: Not at all and it is alright I just want you to feel better and be happy…. I know you feel bad but that does not mean I do not want you around. You are a nice person and a great friend to have.
Maru: T-thank you but do not worry… Luna told me how I was thinking was wrong, so I do not feel sorry since I need to move forward… And shine like a full moon….
Kairi: I am glad, and I know you can do that! You can visit any time and I think my birthday is sort of close by so I can invite you then and it will be a lot of fun.
Yami: Yeah, and Luna we should fight again, it was fun.
Kura: … Yes, but not so seriously and Yami you need to learn the difference between sparring and fighting.
Yami: (Shrugs). Don’t think there’s much of one.
Kura: (Sighs and shakes her head). Yami if you do not learn how to use manners and be nice, I will give you a bath again.
Yami: Hey no need for threats!
Maru: (Both he and Luna look confused but drop it since they are not sure if they want to know). Yes, just send me a letter and when I should come over for your birthday and I will make sure I am there.
Kairi: I look forward to it! For now, I hope you have a safe trip back home. (Smiles happily and hugs Luna and then Maru).
Maru: (Hangs onto Kairi for a moment longer). Thank you….
Luna: (Is shocked at first but then smiles).
Kairi: (Is surprised Maru does not let go but smiles and hugs Maru back). No problem! If there is anything you need tell me and I will help anyway I can.
Maru: Thank you but right now I should be fine….
Kairi: I look forward to seeing you again!
Maru: (Little tears form in his eyes as he pulls away from Kairi and Luna does as well). Well, it looks like it is time for us to go.
Kairi: I guess so but do not worry, you will see me again in no time and next time it will be a lot better! (Nods and smiles brightly to them in the farewell).
Maru: Yes (Smiles heavily with tears running down as he and Luna disappear into light).
Kairi: (Gives a confused look). They disappeared?
Kura: Yes, but you will see them again.
Kairi: I know, and I look forward to it.
Yami: Yeah, now come on, let’s get ready for tomorrow and have something to eat.
Kura: You are always hungry so be patient.
Yami: Yeah so? Food is good so let’s go.
Kairi: (Looks back once more where Maru and Luna were and smiles as they walk in the mansion).
Meanwhile in a faraway place far away two people are getting ready for a night’s rest though feeling something missing being lost without each other.
Zahir: (Struggles to stay awake in a back alley in the major nature city where he has heard some poison spirits are here under protection of Shizen and the people that respect her as he stares into the night sky full of stars). Ziona… My wife… My love… I hope you are alright… Things have been rough for me… If you aren’t in this world anymore. (Begins to cry). I would be lost… But I know you will protect me my angel… May that side be gentle to you…. (Drifts off to sleep).
Ziona: (As she looks up at the night sky through the window of her home looking down sadly with her hands on her large stomach). I miss you Zahir… I wish you would come home…. and still hope you are alive… Please be alive…. Please come home soon… I’m scared to do this without you…. (Looks at her stomach as tears fall).
