"Lonely Heart," chapter 15

Title: Lonely Heart (Chapter 15)
Fandom: Ronin Warriors
Characters/Pairing: Sage Date, Rowen Hashiba, Mia Koji, Sayoko Mouri, Cale
Rating: PG-13
Disclaimer: Not mine, anything mentioned here by name isn't mine
Warnings: Canon-typical violence
Notes: More slice-of-life/remake AU!

June 1994

Mia was not a confrontational person. Not because she wouldn’t fight for what she believed in. After all, she was trying to avenge her parents. She just preferred working around problems than trying to brute her way through them. So, when Grandfather had employed a wild-eyed boy who was much too young to have awakened Halo, and yet he had, Mia had let him be. He was terrified of her for whatever reason. She suspected that the reasons behind his fear rested somewhere between adjusting to being the only living Ronin Warrior (that they knew of) and leaving his family in Miyagi to live on his own and work for two strangers. So, she promised herself that she would give him space and wait for him to approach her. That had been in March. Now months later, Mia realized that like it or not, she would have to handle this problem head-on. Luckily, today was the perfect day for that.

“Happy birthday.” Mia’s tone was bright as she approached Sage after training with a huge slice of chocolate cake in hand. To her relief, he blushed, but he didn’t run off. She placed the cake on a nearby picnic table. “Hurry up and eat it before the ants do.”

Soundlessly, Sage sat down. He took the fork and cut the slice in half. “Have some.”

Mia smiled as she took a seat. “Thanks, Sage, but you don’t have to do that.”

“I insist.” He wasn’t quite looking at her, but his voice was firm. “I have two sisters, so I know it’s important to share.”

That was new information. “All right.” Mia was thankful she had thought to bring paper napkins as well since she had to eat with her fingers. (Sage offered his fork as well, but she refused—she didn’t know him very well but understood he was a neat eater.) She frowned as she nibbled on the cake. “I also wanted to apologize for whatever I’ve done to make you uncomfortable here.”

Sage’s eyes widened in shock. “You’ve done nothing! You’re wonderful!”

“I’m glad you think so,” Mia began, somehow hiding her surprise at that reaction. “It’s just this is the longest conversation we’ve had since we met.”

“That is true,” Sage agreed as he attacked his cake. “Apologies for my craven behavior. I have trouble talking to girls.”

“But you have two sisters. You grew up around girls; shouldn’t it be easy for you to talk to them at this point?”

“Satsuki is too young for me to converse with. As for Yayoi, we fight a lot.” Sage stared down at what was left of his cake. “I won’t talk about it anymore.”

“Okay,” Mia said without missing a beat. “That said, being nervous around me until the Dynasty is gone for good is not a viable long-term strategy.”

“Agreed,” Sage admitted. “What do you propose?”

“We’re both on the same mission to stop the Dynasty. If we focus on that, everything else will happen on its own. I mean,” and she was taking a risk here, “we’re already friends, right?”

Sage gave her an unguarded smile, and despite what she had said about the mission, she felt like she was talking to a boy close to her age rather than humanity’s one hope against the Dynasty. “Yes.”

“Exactly, which is why I won’t tell Grandfather about that race you snuck out to participate in—oh, don’t act so shocked. You ran off the day of the race you kept talking about, and then the next day, the newspapers are running stories about a mysterious young driver who took first place and left the instant he had the check in hand.”

Sage cleared his throat. “Apologies. I’m fond of racing, I was the best driver, and I wanted the money so I could finally get that Jaguar I’ve been saving for.”

“Your secret is safe with me,” Mia promised.

April 1995.

Mia examined her surroundings as she approached the shrine. Rowen had mentioned on the ride to Osaka that he had lived here for some time while his parents were trying to find jobs that would allow them to pursue their ambitions while also raising a son after their divorce. Despite the events that led to his stay here, Rowen’s tone had been unusually warm when describing the shrine and she could see why. It was located adjacent to a small forest, which meant the shrine was home to some of the most beautiful trees Mia had ever seen. And the birds were quite lively. She hid a laugh as two small blue birds were having an intense argument on a tree’s lower branch. She understood why Rowen loved this place. Everything just seemed alive. Even as she made her way to where Rowen was staying, that bright feeling remained. “Rowen? I made copies of Ms. Sayoko’s files. I thought we could do some cross-referencing?”

When Rowen greeted her, his shoulders sagged in relief. “Oh, thank goodness, you’re dressed casually.”

“… Yes, I am?” She was wearing a black T-shirt, a red flannel shirt (it was warming up but still chilly enough in the morning that long sleeves were necessary), and ripped jeans. “I wasn’t aware that the shrine had a dress code.”

Rowen shook his head as he stepped aside so she could enter, then slid the screen closed. “Apologies. Let me explain. After Sage insisted that he take us to that French restaurant for dinner tonight, I’ve been terrified that I’ll need to somehow summon a formal outfit from the void. However, your current choice of wardrobe implies the establishment is casual.”

“Oh, no, it’s formal. Sage made reservations in advance and everything.” Mia held up her bookbag. “My dress and heels are in here. I thought I’d change in your restroom before we leave.”

Rowen didn’t answer that. Instead, he was now rummaging through his duffel bag. “Okay, I brought the formal clothes Sage said I could keep, just in case. They’re small, but it’s all I have.”

“Maybe your grandfather could loan you some clothes?”

“Grandfather is shorter than Sage.” He frowned at the white shirt. “I suppose that’s what I get for hitting my growth spurt early.”

“Well, Sage won’t mind if you’re not the height of fashion like he is,” she assured him, then grimaced. “Sorry for the accidental pun. Anyways, Sage just wants to spend time with you.”

“I know. It’s just that he’s my friend, and this restaurant is so expensive, and I want to impress him.”

For someone so confident when it came to school and computers, poor Rowen was a mess when it came to relationships. Mia could relate, honestly. Every friend she had was connected to her mission to stop the Dynasty. They were all true friends and they had interests outside of fighting demons, but she couldn’t guarantee she would have had the courage to talk to any of them if it weren’t for their common goal. “I think we have some time to visit a department store. I’m sure we could find formal clothes that fit you.” She knew that Sayoko paid him enough that it wouldn’t be a problem.

Rowen rubbed the back of his neck guiltily. “I, um, might also be saving up for a laptop.”

“Good for you! Oh, speaking of…” Mia unzipped her bookbag, and with a small grunt of effort hoisted her baby out. She smirked as Rowen watched her intensely as she got set up. “If you’re wondering where I bought this… I didn’t. I built this bad boy from the ground up.”

“Amazing.” Rowen sat down next to her, peering over her shoulder. “I was planning to do the same thing. Ms. Sayoko’s been helping me source parts, but with things being so weird lately…”

“Don’t worry about it.” Sage had explained everything that had happened to Kento and Cye. It was partly why she decided to visit Rowen. “Okay, I want to show this off,” she opened the program that had been consuming her free time. “You know how Cye and Sage can detect people? And how that’s useful, but if they’re both out of commission, you’re out of luck?” Rowen nodded. “I’ve figured out how to detect each of your Armor’s unique energy signatures. See this blue dot?” She pointed to the aforementioned blue dot on the monitor. “That’s you, of course. Now let’s zoom out.” The map became larger, encompassing all of Osaka. “That green dot where the hotel is located represents Sage.”

Rowen stroked his chin. “This would be helpful, in more ways than one. I can already imagine how you could use this to track other types of energy if needed.” He gave her a thoughtful glance. “Yet I suspect you have other things to share.”

“Correct.” Mia reached for the second bag she’d brought with her; the one that held her fencing gear. “If you would be so kind, I’d like some feedback on my other project.”

Rowen eyed the blade thoughtfully. “I’m not an expert in fencing, but that doesn’t appear to be a traditional foil.”

“That’s because it’s a sabre,” she explained. “That’s the style of fencing I’m most adept in.” She took a few steps away from Rowen and her laptop, then double-checked that the sabre was at its lowest setting. “Now watch this.” The sabre was alit with electricity.

Rowen’s expression was stern and reminded her too much of her grandfather for her liking. “No.”

“I didn’t even ask anything!”

“You don’t need to. You come in here with a program that can locate missing Ronins and a sabre that has electric powers. You want to join us on the front lines. I’m sorry, Mia, but the answer is no.”

“Oh, I didn’t realize you got to decide that for me,” she shot back tersely.

“It’s not about that.” Rowen still looked stern, but there was concern in his eyes as well. “Mia, you’re our friend. And your researching and help is invaluable, but—”

Mia grabbed him by his shirt collar. “Rowen, I am going to say this once, so please listen,” she said evenly. He gulped and nodded. Mia let go. “I’m not an innocent civilian who got swept up in all of this. I’m also not here just to provide info and nurture you guys. I lost family members to the Dynasty, and I’m going to make sure that they’ll pay. I know I have no armor and that makes me a target. I’m not going to run off after Warlords, but I’m not just going to stay home all the time, either.”

Rowen wasn’t fully convinced, but he wasn’t saying ‘no’ anymore, either. “I’m sorry, Mia. None of us see you that way.”

“I know,” she admitted. “But none of you called me when Kento or Cye awoke. And yes, I know those were intense situations, but those situations did eventually end and no one told me what happened until I was invited to accompany you guys to Osaka.” Mia shrugged. “But I can’t blame you. I’m reserved in nature; it’s my fault as well for not speaking up. But that’s changing today. If Luna and Sayoko can fight the Dynasty in more active roles, I don’t see why I can’t do so as well.”

“True, but they have armor.”

“They do. And I promise I’m not planning on facing any demons head-on. But I can work with you and I can take care of myself. I’m not just going to sit behind a desk while all this is going on.”

“I understand,” Rowen said after a long pause. “… I’m not thrilled with you being in the action, but I agree with your reasons. I’m sure Ryo, Cye, Kento, and Luna will feel the same. Although please understand that Sage will be more difficult to convince.”

“Oh, I’m more than aware of that. But I’ve known him for a long time. He’s stubborn, but eventually listens to reason.” She put away her sabre. “So, after cross-referencing, do you want to help me see if we can track other types of energy?”

Rowen gave her an honest smile. “Nothing would make me happier.”

“Ms. Sayoko isn’t joining us?” Mia stopped at the light. “I was looking forward to talking to her.” She had believed Cye when he said that he wanted his family to reconcile with hers, but she had doubted anyone could persuade Sayoko Mouri to give up her grudge. But apparently, she had underestimated the powers of being the beloved baby brother. Sayoko had sent her several friendly e-mails and was nothing but supportive when Mia voiced her interest in being more active in fighting the Dynasty. (Although it probably helped that Grandfather didn’t try to engage in any way.)

“She’s calling Cye this evening.” Rowen’s gaze was fixed on the van in front of them. “After weeks of keeping secrets for both of them, the fact that they can converse about all of this openly is a relief.”

“I’ll bet it is. I know I’m glad I can be honest around him, too.” In more ways than one. Mia had been very aware that she was taking a risk in being friendly with Cye back in January, not to mention telling him that Grandfather and Shin Mouri had been good friend in March. Yes, he didn’t know what had happened between their families, but Sayoko had. Mia was thankful that it had all worked out, and not just when it came to fighting the Dynasty: Cye was funny, warm-hearted, and sweet. It made her wish that they could have known each other better when they were younger. Maybe then she wouldn’t have been so lonely growing up. But there was no point in ruminating, especially when one was driving.

“Sage, there you are!” Mia shouted out her window after finding a parking spot. As expected, he was leaning against his favorite sports car, eye closed and arms folded across his chest. She approached him with Rowen close on her heels. “Were you able to cancel the third reservation?”

“No need,” Sage answered with a shake of his head. “I was fortunate to discover that my father is visiting Osaka this week. It’s for his job, but he has time for dinner. He’ll join us shortly.” He smiled as he led them to the pristine French restaurant before them. “Come, friends.”

“I’ve never met Sage’s father before,” Rowen confessed in a whisper as they followed Sage. “Is there anything I need to be aware of?”

Mia gave it some thought. “Well, he knows what Sage is doing, so don’t feel like you have to hide things. Oh, and he’s a little rowdier than Sage, but don’t let that bother you. He’s a teddy bear deep down.”

Sage’s father let out a rich belly laugh as he clapped Rowen on the back so hard, that Mia was worried that he would fall face-first into his soup. “You must be that genius archer Sage won’t shut up about over the phone, Sanada, right?”

“Father, his name is Rowen Hashiba.” Sage smiled at his father over his sparkling water. “What is it you used to tell me? Don’t get overexcited or you’ll make mistakes?”

“Yeah, sorry.” Rowen yelped as Sage’s father tousled his hair. “I’m just so thrilled about getting to meet another one of my favorite guy’s friends, I haven’t introduced myself yet! The name’s Seiji Date, but just call me Seiji. I’ve never been good with formalities.”

Sage sipped his water. “Much to Mother’s chagrin.” Seiji laughed again, banging his hand on the table for good measure. “How is the rest of the family, Father?”

“They’re doing okay. Your grandfather and Sayuri are helping their students get ready for a competition. Yayoi’s taking some classes that are so complicated, I don’t even understand the course names.” Seiji gulped his second beer for the evening. “Satsuki’s already looking forward to starting Junior High soon. You know she keeps asking about when you’re going to come home.”

Sage diverted his gaze to his bouillabaisse. “Truly?”

“Of course, she worships the ground you walk on!!”

“Yes, well.” Sage closed his eyes as if he (for once) wasn’t sure what to say. “That’s probably because she wasn’t—”

“Sage.” Mia’s tone was stern/gentle as she placed her hand over his. “You know that your father wouldn’t lie to you. And even if you’ve had difficulties with your family in the past, I know that Satsuki couldn’t help but love someone like you.”

“You are pretty cool,” Rowen assured him.

“Listen to your friends, Sage!” Seiji gave his son a grin that was weary, but real. “They’re getting points across your old man never could.”

“… Very well. But Father, you shouldn’t be so self-deprecating. You are plain-spoken, but I have always admired how directly you express yourself.”

Seiji shook his head. “I forgot how fancy you talk sometimes. No wonder all your friends are geniuses.”

Sage laughed at that. “Once I introduce you to Kento, you might wish to reevaluate that last statement.”

“Yes, Father, I am aware that you only had two beers. However, I would feel better if you permitted me to pay for a taxi to your hotel.” He frowned as Seiji insisted that he could pay. “Father, please. You’re terrible with money. That is, after all, partly the reason you agreed to come to dinner; you spent your food money on souvenirs for my sisters.”

Seiji scoffed; arms folded across his chest. He didn’t look a thing like Sage, but they had some similarities in body language. “What a disrespectful son!”

Sage was not impressed. “That’s an interesting way to say, ‘thank you for resolving my financial distress.’”

“Ugh, guess that’s what happens when your son is psychic.” There was no heat in Seiji’s tone. He was even grinning. “How is the fight against demons going?”

“Well.” Sage examined the check the server had left for them. “The fifth Ronin Warrior awoke recently.”

Seiji snapped his fingers. “It was the Mouri kid, wasn’t it?” When Sage nodded, Seiji whooped in delight. “I knew it! You kept going on about how gentle this kid was, and between what I remember about the Torrent Armor and all of your friends becoming Ronin Warriors in a row, I had a feeling!” He leaned back in his chair. “I should have bet money on that.”

“Yes, then you might have the money needed for the taxi fare. However, I do, so I shall make the call.” He glanced at Mia and Rowen in concern. “Mia, are you okay with waiting at the shrine until I’m there to pick you up?”

“Of course,” Mia replied. “I have a Ronin Warrior to protect me! Don’t worry one bit.”

“Some guardians of the mortal realm,” Ume groused as she observed Strata and his friend leave for their horseless carriage. “They’re having dinner at a fancy restaurant while we’re doing the actual fighting. Do you see now that we could never work with the Ronin Warriors?”

“It’s unfair to judge them for having fun on one night, but… you might be correct,” Haru agreed reluctantly. “The current Strata looks far too gentle to take on Talpa. He’d probably be the first to be consumed.”

“And there’s the other reason we have to steal the Armor.” Ume wasn’t impressed with these humans, but she didn’t want them to die. It was for the best, she assured herself as Strata’s friend, a girl about the age Ume was when she died, rummaged in her bag. “Halo is an expert swordsman and psychic. The only reason he hasn’t detected us is that he’s worried about his father’s safety. Strata is closer and there’s a civilian we can use to manipulate him. He’s the one we’ll grab.”

“I don’t like it,” Haru grumbled even as he shifted into his demonic form. It reminded Ume of those monsters her mother used to say would come and get her if she wasn’t a good girl. “We’re not much better than the Dynasty if we’re threatening a girl and kidnapping a boy.”

“I feel the same,” Ume confessed. “But we’re not going to kill her. And as soon as Strata gives us his Armor, we’ll let him go.”

Haru’s tense expression didn’t ease, but he nodded. “Let us proceed.” They both leaped from the rooftop to begin their mission to steal the Armor of the Strata.

Rowen tensed.

“Are you okay?” Mia’s brow furrowed in concern. “Should I get Sage—” The next thing she knew, Mia was encased in a silvery bubble.

“Strata. I am Haru, a gentleman that serves Lord Saberstryke.” The demon bared his fangs; a direct contrast to his civil tone. “If you agree to come with me, I’ll release the girl.”

“Rowen, no!” She pounded her fists against the bubble, hating herself for leaving her bookbag (and laptop and sabre) in the car. How was she supposed to help anyone if she treated this as a hobby and not a mission?! “He just wants your Armor; he can’t have it!”

He glanced at Mia, then nodded at Haru. “I’ll go with you. Just don’t hurt Mia.”

It happened so fast. First, Mia was free. Then Rowen was bubbled—and Haru hit him against a car so hard that he passed out. “Sorry, Strata, but we don’t need you coming up with an escape plan.” Mia felt outrage well up in her, because Rowen had sacrificed himself for her safety, and this was how they were treating him—but then she was slammed to the ground.

“And we don’t need any would-be rescuers.” A young woman that looked like she belonged in a period drama placed one hand on Haru’s arm. Haru placed his free hand on the bubble.

The three of them vanished into the cool night air.

The woman hadn’t hit Mia hard enough to knock her out, which meant she had time to reflect on how helpless she had been. How she didn’t do anything to save Rowen. How upset Sage would be.

But then she took a deep breath and ignored the pain as she ran to her car, slamming the door open. She grabbed her laptop… and grinned as she was able to pinpoint the Strata Armor within seconds. Mia put the laptop away, hopped into the driver’s seat, buckled in, and hit the gas. Thankfully it was late and few cars were out.

Mia hit the button for her car phone. “Sage?”

“Mia, what’s wrong?”

“Rowen got kidnapped by a demon that wants his Armor.”

“What?! Mia, where are you?”

“On my way to save him.”

“No. It’s too dangerous.”

Mia ignored him. “You know that abandoned factory we passed on the way to the restaurant? It’s ten minutes away by car. I’m heading there now.” She hung up before Sage could protest further and called Sayoko. “Hi, it’s Mia. Rowen is in trouble.” Sayoko immediately demanded the address (which Mia supplied), but thankfully didn’t say anything about Mia going in to rescue Rowen.

“Hang tight when you get there, Mia,” Sayoko did say, however. “I have some gear so you can protect yourself.”

Mia parked, stopped only long enough to replace her high heels with her running shoes, and grabbed her sabre. “Thanks, but I got that covered.”

“License overseas, hunh?” Sayoko, already in her armor, said flatly as Sage sped down the road.

“I shall not engage in frivolous conversation until Rowen and Mia are rescued,” he replied curtly—and then grunted as he swerved to avoid a shadowy figure in the middle of the road. Sage hit the brakes and glared at the man. He was in brown Armor with a cape… Sage had never met him before, but he could sense the Warlord of Corruption.

“Halo,” the Warlord said. “I challenge you to a duel.”

“We’re close enough to Rowen and Mia that you can go on your own.” Sage took out his orb. “I’ll hold off Cale.”

“Excuse me?” Sayoko grabbed his arm. “I’m not going to leave you alone to fight a Warlord. We can take him out fast and then—”

“Sayoko.” His gaze was fixed on Cale. “Please.”

“Ryo’s going to kill me,” she grumbled to herself but dashed off. “Be careful!”

Cherry blossoms engulfed Sage’s body, encasing him in the brilliant Armor of Halo. He drew his blade. “En garde.”

“Armor of Strata,” Ume intoned, hands held out in front of her. “Come forth!” And yet again, the Armor had yet to appear. “Ugh!” She plopped down on a box in frustration. “I don’t get it. I’m all about protecting innocent life. I know how to fire an arrow. And I have centuries more experience in combat than this kid! Why isn’t the Armor coming to me already?”

“I don’t know. I’m not fully cognizant of how I summoned Strata, honestly,” Strata said.

Ume stood up. She didn’t technically need her naginata, since Strata was floating helplessly in Haru’s bubble, but she wasn’t going to take chances. “I thought you were unconscious, Strata.”

“Oh, I was never unconscious. I was merely dazed. I also realized that there’s some property about this bubble that prevents me from transforming.” He frowned. “Strata feels… muted. Thus, I surmised it would be advantageous to feign fainting in the hopes that you and your companion would divulge information that I could use to aid my escape.” He had the nerve to glare at her. “However, all you’ve done is yell about the Armor of Strata. So much for my plan.”

Ume sighed heavily. “Let me explain, Strata.”

“Call me Rowen when I’m out of the Armor, thanks.”

“All right, Rowen it is.” This Strata (Rowen) was proving to be an interesting character. “My name is Ume and my furry friend is Haru. We’re not going to kill you or hand you off to Talpa, I swear.”

Rowen was still glaring at her. “You’ll forgive me if I don’t immediately trust denizens of the Dynasty.”

“Don’t assume everyone in the Dynasty is aligned with Talpa,” Haru said sternly. “We’ve sworn our lives to rid the Nether Realm of his tyranny.”

“Well, I’ve sworn my afterlife, but that’s just nitpicking,” Ume added with a shrug. “That’s the reason we’re trying to get your Armor.”

Rowen’s expression was calmer, but it was still guarded. “If this is true, then I can’t help but wonder why we can’t work together.”

Because humans had sold out her village to the Dynasty. “Because humans can’t be trusted.”

“You’re right,” Rowen said more to himself than her. “Goodness knows I’ve met my share of humans that said they wanted to help, but their actions proved the opposite.” Before she could ask just what he meant by that, Rowen continued. “However, there are truly good humans. My… my friends, the other Ronin Warriors, prove that with their actions. You can trust us, I promise.”

It wasn’t that Ume didn’t want to believe him. But as he said, actions were far more persuasive, and so far, he had only offered words. She hated to admit it, but they’d need more than words to defeat Talpa or…

“Cale,” she whispered bitterly, recognizing his energy. She turned to Haru. “Don’t let Strata escape. I’ll be back as soon as I deal with Cale.” She ignored Haru’s shouts to stop and Rowen’s pleas to let him help her fight Cale. The only thing that mattered was making sure that the Armor stayed in their hands. Anything else was just words.

Mia watched as the young woman Ume ran off. Her demon friend, Haru, grumbled but remained where he stood. Rowen glowered at Haru, making it clear that he disagreed with his following Ume’s instructions—not that he could do much, since he was captured.

Well, not for much longer, she promised Rowen silently. She had been hoping that Haru would get distracted so she could sneak in and find a way to burst the bubble, but his focus was admirable. And he also had claws and teeth. She had her sabre, but she wasn’t sure just how much one girl with a sword could do. … But even with his magic and powers, Sage was one boy with a sword. He was still young and she knew he had his own fears and doubts. If he could conquer them, then so could she.

Haru growled softly. Mia noted that his hands were trembling. She supposed that was because he’d kept up this bubble for some time. She wondered if… well, it wasn’t like she was going to come up with a better plan.

“Um, excuse me,” she said as she stepped out of the shadows. “But you have my friend.” She pointed her sabre at Haru. “I want him back.”

“Seriously?” Haru said around a laugh.

“Mia.” Rowen’s tone was desperate. “You must flee, immediately.”

“Only if you flee with me.” She kept her gaze fixed on the demon. “Release my friend. If not, then I’ll have no choice but to fight you.”

Haru rolled his eyes. “I’m not going to fight some girl with no powers.”

And that was exactly what Mia had hoped he would do. In that brief moment when Haru relaxed just enough at the ‘foolish’ sight of a mere human challenging a demon to be distracted, she slashed his hands with her electronically-charged sabre. Haru howled, staggering forward… and then backward as Sayoko (in armor) punched him in the face.

“What?!” Haru looked up at Sayoko, eyes unfocused thanks to his head injury. “What is with humans these days?”

“You kidnap my brother, I punch you,” Sayoko informed him. “It’s simple logic.”

“That doesn’t answer my question,” Haru snarled as he managed to stand upright. “But right now, I’m a little more invested in vanquishing you two.”

“You may wish to reconsider,” Rowen said, clad in his Armor. He had an arrow aimed between Haru’s eyes. “We’ve won. Strata will never be yours. However, you’re a rational demon, Haru. If you really are planning to set the Dynasty free from Talpa, I suggest that you accept my offer of a truce so we can work together to save both of our friends from Cale.”

Haru growled again… but nodded. “I suppose I can’t argue with that logic.”

Sage groaned as Cale hoisted him upright. His sword was on the ground, just a few meters out of reach. He was aware that Cale could manipulate darkness and shadow, but there was something calculated to this battle. He realized too late that while he and others were still trying to gather what information they could, Cale had studied him in return. Sage tried (but failed) to swallow down the rage/shame at failing at his task. “Don’t feel bad about losing this duel, Halo.” His tone was… was almost avuncular. “You’ve shown enough bite that I think it’s worth taking you back to the Dynasty with me. Once we have you properly bent to my will, you and I can retrieve Wildfire, and—”

Cale, Warlord of Corruption. Sage closed his eyes. Be purified. Cale screamed as white-hot light erupted in his mind. He staggered backward, allowing Sage to break free and retrieve his sword.

“Amazing!” Cale grinned widely even as he pointed his blade at Sage. “And unexpected. From everything I learned about you, I assumed that you believed that using your abilities in such an aggressive manner was unsportsmanlike.”

“This isn’t sport,” he spat back, sword at the ready. “This isn’t even a duel. This is you threatening to turn me into a weapon against my friend. I would rather die than let that happen.”

“That is a worst-case scenario, but if you insist…” Sage managed to block the first two waves of dark energy, but it was only a matter of time until exhaustion got the better of him. He needed a miracle.

Cale grunted as his sword arm was pelted with ice and snow. Sage looked to his left, and there was an onna-musha, posing with her naginata like one of those heroines in the manga Mia liked. “You’re one of the awful people who kidnapped Rowen!” He could read her guilty thoughts even in the middle of a battle.

“Yes, but neither of us like Cale,” she said back. “Truce?”

“Truce,” Sage agreed unhappily. He groaned as a vision hit him… then he grinned. “Tell your friend to get ready to strike as soon as he’s here. I’ll distract Cale so he has an opening. Once I break through the void, of course.”

“Wait, what?” Sage ignored the onna-musha as he grabbed Cale, not letting go even as they fell into a dark void together.

“I may have to amend my notes on you, Halo,” Cale said from somewhere in the darkness. “I was under the impression that you were a gentleman. Yet you fight as brutally as a Warlord.”

“Nonsense.” Sage closed his eyes. That darkness clouded his perception, but after attacking Cale psychically, Sage had a stronger idea of what his energy looked like. It was just a matter of time and concentration until he found his prey.

“Hardly. I see now that brainwashing you to serve me mindlessly would be a hindrance to us both.”

Sage knew that this was another way to keep him from pinpointing Cale. Unfortunately, it was working. “Truly? Because that didn’t seem to stop Dais from warping my friends’ spirits.”

“Dais was misguided. And so was I. Look at how you’ve handled this battle. You’ve fought to the bitter end. You’ve used tactics that others would shudder at. And even when others offer a hand, you fight alone. You understand that to protect others, you must fight alone, and do whatever it takes to secure victory. You’re like me. You just don’t realize it yet.”

Sage’s body went cold. “I’m nothing like—”

Cale was in front of him. That fact that he—that anyone—could get past his defenses so easily, coupled with exhaustion, was enough for Sage to freeze up long enough for Cale to punch him in the stomach. Even with the Armor, he fell in a heap, coughing helplessly.

“Yes, you are like me.” He hated how calm… and rational Cale sounded right now. “Your family never really understood your abilities. Sometimes even your psychic grandfather doesn’t comprehend what’s going on in that brain of yours. Seeing how you haven’t been home in years; I suspect you realize that they never will. I was in a similar situation. It ended poorly for me.” He held out a hand. “I have no wish to see that repeated. Come with me. I’ll take you to a place where you’ll be understood and respected.”

“I won’t serve Talpa.” That much, at least, was still clear.

“You won’t. You’ll serve me. I plan to restore the Dynasty to its proper role as a haven for dead warriors.”

Sage laughed hollowly. “With you as Emperor, I suppose?”

“Yes. There are still warrior spirits that would corrupt the Dynasty. Talpa is one of those spirits. Some humans seek to control powers they should not. Unlike Talpa, I have a sense of duty and individuals I want to protect. I will bring control to this chaos, and I know in my heart that you yearn to do the same.”

“… I can’t. My father. He would miss me.”

“Halo, I do not doubt that your father loves you,” Cale said with a heavy sigh. “But he doesn’t understand you. No one does. That’s something that has distressed you since were young. Unfortunately, we both know from experience that you’ll never find that connection your heart is aching for. Not in this realm, at least.” He looked down on Sage sadly. “You may as well come with me. There’s nothing for you here.”

A gleaming golden arrow pierced the darkness. There was a bright indigo flash, blinding both Sage and Cale momentarily. When Sage’s eyes adjusted, Rowen was between him and Cale, eyes cold. He knelt next to Sage. “Hold on.” Rowen grabbed him tight, and the next thing Sage knew, they were flying out of the void. “Please protect him while I dispatch Cale,” he said to Sayoko.

“On it!” For a ‘mere’ human with only her self-made armor to protect her, Sayoko’s arms were strong around him. He couldn't break free to join Rowen in battle, no matter how he struggled.

Mia (why hadn’t Rowen sent her away…?) was typing furiously on her laptop. “Good, Haru, you have Cale bubbled. Now send him flying at a 45-degree angle.” A silvery bubble flew into the night sky. “Rowen, now!”

“Arrow Shock Wave,” Rowen whispered fiercely. The bubble disappeared into brilliant energy.

“Wow, Halo.” The onna-musha eyed the heavens. “I was worried, but that plan worked out perfectly.”

“I suppose,” Sage said dully. “In my vision, the void opened. I didn’t see how. I’d assumed I would break free with Cale with pursuit, but instead it was Rowen who saved us.”

“Hey, if it works, it works! There’s no way that Haru and Rowen and the girl—”

“My name’s Mia,” Mia replied.

“Sorry, Mia. Anyways, they couldn’t have done that if you hadn’t provided the distraction.” She nodded her head. “So, thanks for saving us, but… the truce is over.”

Rowen watched as Sayoko and Mia helped Sage to his feet. “Understood, but perhaps if we…” They were both gone.

“Fret not. They will not attack us again. Not tonight at least.” Sage tried to smile. “Thank you for saving me.”

Rowen tried to smile back. “The congrats should go to Mia. She’s the one that was able to find where you were.”

Sage gazed at Mia. “Thank you. Although I’m not happy about your new sword or your plans to be more active in our fights—”

“Oh, so that’s what you were talking about when you said you didn’t need any gear! I’d love to learn more about… oh.” Sayoko cleared her throat. “Sorry. Nerded out a bit there.”

“As I was saying,” Sage continued. “I don’t like it. But I… I think I understand it.”

Mia smiled at him, and Sage felt some of his humanity return… along with responsibilities. “Ms. Sayoko, we need to talk about Cale. His goals extend beyond simply wanting to take over the world for Talpa now.”

Rowen nodded. “We also need to talk about my ‘friends’ Ume and Haru. While I’m glad that there is a rebellion movement in the Dynasty, they’re also set on gaining our Armors to further their goals.”

Sage closed his eyes. There were so many new complications to his mission, that it was overwhelming.

Mia squeezed his hand.

Focus on Mia. His friend and partner. Focus on Rowen and the others. Focus on the mission.

He didn’t matter. All that mattered was protecting his loved ones.

After that battle, the four of them came to an unspoken agreement that they should not split up again. Luckily, Rowen’s grandfather was both understanding and had a spare room for Mia and Sayoko. Sage was sharing Rowen’s room, in theory. It was almost midnight and he was still on the front steps, gaze fixed on the forest.

Mia approached him quietly. “I brought some tea.” To her relief, he accepted the cup. He also didn’t leave when she sat next to him on the shrine steps. “I thought Rowen was the night owl of the group.”

“I think being kidnapped and learning that he can fly in one night was enough to tire even him out.” Sage stared at his tea. “Thank you for saving him. If they had taken him away, I don’t know what I would have done.”

“But he wasn’t taken away,” Mia reminded him firmly, one hand on his arm. “He’s safe. And that’s also thanks to you holding off Cale…” She stopped when she felt him shudder. “Sage, what’s wrong?”

“Nothing.”

“Nonsense.” She grabbed his shoulder. “Sage, we both know what happens when we keep secrets. Tell me what happened.”

Sage bowed his head. “Cale asked me to join him.”

“Oh.” Mia wished she felt as calm as she sounded. “Like when Dais brainwashed Rowen to give up his orb?”

“No, this was a genuine appeal… and he made valid points.”

“Sage, you can’t believe him.” A hint of panic finally bled into her practiced calm. “He’s a Warlord for the Dynasty. They killed my parents. They killed Luna’s brother. They killed Ryo’s mother and Cye’s father.”

“I know.” Sage wouldn’t look at her. “But he says he’s going to reform it. And that I’m better suited for that than being here.”

Sage, they killed my parents! But anger would solve nothing. “Sage, consider how his actions align with his words. He didn’t try to persuade you; he tried to beat you into submission. Maybe he didn’t use the magic tricks Dais used, but it was coercion, plain and simple.” She managed a smile. “Meanwhile, you were willing to sacrifice yourself for all of us and worked with the people who kidnapped Rowen when you had to. You are nothing like Cale, I swear.”

He finally looked at her, blinking in surprise since Mia wasn’t usually so blunt. Then he relaxed ever so slightly. “Thank you. I… needed to hear that.”

Mia nudged him with her shoulder. “Anytime.” Of course, this meant that Mia had to consider how Ume and Haru’s actions aligned with their words. They had honored their truce. They had no love for Cale. However, the Armors could not just be handed off, even if she agreed with their goals. She had no mystical abilities, but she knew that the young men who summoned the Armors were the only ones who could be trusted with such power. Their hearts were true, even if Sage had his doubts.

She would just have to keep an eye on him. That was all.

Final Notes: "Whatever it takes" is, of course, one of the Major Moments in Batman: Mask of the Phantasm, a thematic influence for this AU and my favorite movie ever TBH. (Andrea Beaumont wound up becoming an accidental influence on how I write Luna.)

I am posting this chapter a little early partly because this month has been weird, but I also want to spend tomorrow playing Fire Emblem: Three Hopes for as long as I can.