Title: Lonely Heart (Chapter 26)
Fandom: Ronin Warriors
Characters/Pairing: All five Ronins, Sayoko Mouri, Mia Koji, Luna, White Blaze, Cale, Dais, Sage's family
Rating: PG-13
Disclaimer: Not mine, anything mentioned here by name isn't mine
Warnings: Referenced canonical minor character death/familial death. Also references the self-loathing Sage has been going through.
Notes: More slice-of-life/remake AU!

--

Sage was just awake enough to sense fragments of his parents’ thoughts. His mother was blaming herself for what had happened. So was his father—Father also desperately wanted a smoke but refused to leave his son.

“Father,” he grumbled as he forced himself awake, “this room has a balcony. You can smoke there.” With some effort, he sat upright and opened his eyes. His father was not on the balcony smoking. He was sitting next to Sage, eyes brimming with tears.

“I’m giving it up,” he swore, grabbing Sage’s hand. “I’m not gonna miss another second with you, son.”

“Oh.” Sage stared at their hands joined together. His father had tried quitting several times, but this time Sage could sense the conviction in his spirit. “If I had known that getting possessed by the wrathful specter of the first Ronin Warrior would be what would convince you to quit, I would have done so ages ago.”

“Don’t joke like that.” Father’s voice was gruff as he pulled Sage into a gentle hug. “I have never been so scared in my life.”

“That goes double for me,” Mother said as she pulled up a chair next to them. “Sage, your friends Mia and Rowen explained what happened. I need you to answer some questions.”

Father’s arms tightened around Sage protectively. “Sayuri, he’s been through hell. Cut him some slack.”

Sage shook his head. “I appreciate your kind words, Father, but Mother is correct. I need to explain my actions.” As much as an inarticulate person like himself could, at least.

“Okay.” Mother took a deep breath. “Why did you think that sacrificing yourself would make everyone happy?”

He was hit by an urge to bury his face in his father’s shoulder until Mother left, but that was immature. Besides, Mother was stubborn and wouldn’t leave until she had her answer. He could have told her that it was Hariel, not him, making that choice. But that would have been a lie and he did not lie. He could also tell her that he had convinced himself that it was the only way to save everyone, but that would be a half-truth. He didn’t tell half-truths. He opened his mouth, but no sound came out. Realizing with embarrassment that the truth hurt too much to physically discuss, he settled for the next best way to communicate.

Because I don’t know how to tell people I love them. And I feel like no one could ever love me because of that and because I act weird. And the Professor died before I could save him. I couldn’t bring him back for Mia and I couldn’t comfort her, but I could make sure nothing else hurt her or anyone else I love ever again. Since I was so sure that no one loved me, I decided that it would be best if I did whatever it took to make them safe and happy.

“Sage.” Mother’s eyes were bright with tears, but she remained composed. “Is this why you never come home to visit? Because you think we’re incapable of loving you?”

Now he had no choice but to hide his face in his father’s shoulder. Yes. He waited for their anger. Telling him that he was a bad son for doubting them. That he needed to accept that he had been wrong and that everyone else was right and that everyone loved him, even if he didn’t feel it.

“Sage, I am so sorry that we made you feel like your only option was to leave,” Mother whispered, reaching out to stroke his hair. Father hugged him even more tightly. “Your father and I do love you, and so do your sisters. But I’m not naïve enough to think saying that’s enough. If there’s anything we can do that would help you feel loved, please, tell me.”

She wasn’t mad at him. Neither was Father. They did not completely understand him. But if there was one thing Sage had learned from his experiences with Hariel (both the wraith and the monk), it was that people were imperfect and struggled to understand each other, even if they loved each other. Sage wasn’t sure if the warmth blossoming in his heart (and the tears falling) meant that he felt loved. He wasn’t sure if he’d ever feel loved, honestly. But right now, he knew that he was, and that would suffice.

“Mother,” he said, voice raw as he pulled her for a hug alongside Father. “Please forgive me for making all of you worry.”

“Don’t you dare apologize,” Father whispered fiercely. “You were scared and isolated. A lot of people would have done what you did.”

“They would have desired to do so; I have no doubt.” Sage pulled away. “Father, could you please give me my handkerchief? It’s in my suit pocket.” After some rummaging, Father handed him the white fabric. Sage dabbed at his eyes. “However, I was the one with the ability to make that almost happen. I need to ensure I won’t be tempted if something similar happens in the future.” He took a breath. “Regretfully, I will not be returning to Miyagi. While Talpa is vanquished, I plan to devote the rest of my life to helping Mia. However… if you two are willing, I’d like to visit as soon as I have a break from school. I need to talk to Grandfather about what happened. Also, I’d like to see you two again.”

“I am always ready to hang out with my favorite guy!” Father tousled his hair and despite himself, Sage laughed. “We’ll even have some trail mix just for you.”

“I do like trail mix.”

“Thanks, Sage. I look forward to seeing you later.” Mother kissed his forehead. “You won’t admit it, but I know that you’re too tired psychically to deal with a large group, so Father and I will head to our hotel so you can recover and speak with your friends. But we’re just a phone call away, understood?”

Sage smiled at that. “I understand.”

--

“Luna, it’s good to see you. Ryo, what are you doing here? You’re exhausted; you should be in bed.”

“Thank you!” Luna, who let Ryo lean heavily on her, gave her boyfriend a look. White Blaze was close behind them, staring at Ryo intently. “When the guy who’s recovering from a ghost snatching his body tells you that you need a nap, you need a nap.”

Ryo, of course, shook his head. “I just want to see Sage.”

“Honestly,” Sage huffed. He considered getting up and offering Ryo the bed… but wasn’t sure his legs were strong enough to support him. “Well, there’s a couch you can rest on. You should rest as well, Luna. You were pushed to your limits as well.” Sage relaxed when both of them collapsed on the couch, White Blaze nearby. “How is everyone else?”

“Dead on their feet,” Luna admitted. “But everyone’s pitching in. Sayoko’s paying to fix the mansion and Kento’s uncle keeps giving us food for free. The rebels and the Warlords are actually working together to make sure that any loyalists don’t try to attack while we’re vulnerable. Rowen’s folks are… interesting, but have been godsends helping my mom make sure all our info is organized.” She tapped her chin. “You know, they remind me of this secretary and scientist my mom used to work with back in New York.”

Sage nodded. “Speaking of New York, do you plan to return there now that your brother is avenged, Luna?”

Ryo gulped.

Luna smirked. “Let’s see. Go back to New York with only my brother’s grave to keep me company or stay here in Japan with a decent-paying job, my boyfriend, and my best friends in the world? Decisions, decisions.”

“Ah, of course. You don’t want to leave your boyfriend Ryo and your friend Cye.”

“Yes, but I said ‘friends,’ Sage. Plural. That also means Rowen, Mia, Kento, and you.” With a little effort, Luna strode from the couch so she could perch on his bed. “Kento’s the one who let me know where Cye was in the first place—and invited me to Japan. Rowen was the only other person I was fighting demons with for a while. Mia marathons Pixie Bunnie with me. And you… well, let me show you.” She made a fist.

“Hmm? Oh, right.” Sage bumped his fist with hers.

Luna snerked. “See? Who else is that adorably awkward? Also, you’re the one I go to if I need an honest opinion. And you’re the only one with enough taste to go shopping with. Mia and Ryo grab whatever’s comfortable and Cye grabs whatever’s the most colorful.”

The warm feeling in his heart returned. “Even though I’m hard to understand?”

Luna shrugged. “My mom’s hard to understand; I still love her. I don’t see why the same can’t apply to you.”

“For what it’s worth, Sage, I think I understand some of what you’ve gone through,” Ryo said from his spot on the couch. He patted White Blaze’s soft fur. “I was a Ronin Warrior by myself for some time as well. That and living in the middle of nowhere meant friends weren’t really a thing until I met you guys. So, when I met you and the others, I promised myself that no one would take you from me.” He sighed. “Honestly, if I had found the Jewel of Life, I might’ve done the same thing. That’s also why I was willing to take on Talpa myself to make sure no one else died needlessly.”

“We’re similar,” Sage realized. “We may not understand each other perfectly, but we do where it matters. That… that’s why you were able to reach me back then.”

“I think so, yeah.” Ryo ran a hand through his hair. “I know what it feels like to be alone, even if the person has no choice in leaving you. I did my best to explain why we couldn’t be happy if you weren’t with us.” He gave Sage a weary smile. “I’m just really glad it worked.”

“Me too.” Luna returned to Ryo and helped him up. “Let me find you a spare room to rest in before I go home and check on my mom.”

--

When Sage awoke, Cale and Dais loomed over him. He tried to get up so he could fight them, and even managed to get out of bed and stand upright, but his legs gave out under him a moment later.

“Easy, bro,” Kento said as he caught Sage, easing him back into bed. “We have a truce with them. Not to mention that I’m here to make sure they don’t pull anything.” Cale nodded while Dais rolled his remaining eye.

Sage glowered at Cale. “Let me read you. Both of you.”

Cale nodded again. “Of course.”

Dais waved a hand. “If it makes you feel better, feel free.”

“You two are sincere in your intentions,” Sage said with surprise. “You just…” He looked up at Cale, boggled. “You’re seriously here to apologize to me.”

“Why wouldn’t I be?” It was surreal to hear Cale’s tone laced with regret, yet here they were. “I used the same manipulative tactics Talpa used on me and my fellow Warlords. I was the one who led you to the ghost that nearly consumed your soul—”

Sage held up a hand. “I was the one that lied to you and then tried to kill you brutally. Perhaps we should accept that we were both at fault and move on.”

Cale studied Sage intently. “How can you be so forgiving?”

“Because I got a peek at your thoughts when we were allied briefly. Your life could have been my own if I hadn’t been lucky to be born into the family I have. And now that I know you better, I may even understand why you did what you did.” Sage paused. “But don’t do that again.”

“Worry not.” Cale bowed. “Even if I was inclined, I’ll be neck deep in Dynasty politics this time tomorrow.”

“Politics. The only thing suckier than the business world,” Kento groused, making a face. “Well, good luck in making sure the next ruler isn’t some weird ghost that wants to kill everyone.” He frowned as a thought occurred to him. “Speaking of weirdos that want to kill everyone, do we need to worry about Sekhmet causing any problems?”

Dais smirked, shaking his head. “He’s too scared of you and Mrs. Watson to try anything here. And when we get back to the Dynasty, he’ll be too busy working with me to recover his memories. When he’s not dealing with the denizens of the Autumn Territory rightfully protesting his shoddy rule, of course. Whatever comes next won’t be perfect, but the reign of tyrants like Talpa is over. Now, if you excuse, we need to head off to said Dynasty.”

“Wait,” Sage said. “I have something personal to ask.” He didn’t want Kento or Cale to hear, so he thought to Dais, Are you why I dreamt of deer and rabbits sword fighting?

Dais’s smirk widened. I just might be. Then the two of them vanished.

“What did I miss?” Kento plopped on the bed next to Sage.

“As I said previously, it was a personal query.” Sage ran his hands through his hair. “Listen, Kento. I am so sorry about what I did.”

Kento gave him a look. “Don’t sweat it. I mean, how many times have I made poor decisions because I was scared or mad? Or hungry?” Kento grinned when Sage tried to hide a laugh. But after a moment, his expression grew melancholy. “I’m just relieved we were able to reach you before it was too late. I know the battle bro thing is silly, but… as far as I’m concerned, you are my brother. I think I would have lost it if you had died.”

“Oh, Kento.” What else could he say?

“You know how you told me to talk to you if I felt desperate?” Sage nodded. “Well, come see me when you feel like this again. I may not be able to much more than spar with you, but that’s gotta count for something, right?”

“Sparring does help me regulate my emotions,” Sage admitted. “Very well, I shall.”

--

If his parents’ distress had been enough to slowly pull Sage from a deep sleep, Rowen’s anguish was enough for Sage’s eyes to snap open as he was suddenly fully alert. He gazed up at his friend, whose eyes were squeezed shut like he was trying not to cry. “Rowen, it wasn’t your fault for not knowing what I was going through. I didn’t tell you. I didn’t tell anyone until it was almost too late.”

Rowen smiled down at him weakly. “Oh, yeah. You’re psychic. You’ll know why I’m feeling bad right away.”

“That’s right. I am.” Sage pulled himself into a sitting position. “And you’re not. It must have been hard, trying to figure out why I was upset. I never explained why.”

“It was the worst,” Rowen confessed, staring at his hands. “I—I’ve never been good with making or keeping friends. I always freeze up when I need to demonstrate emotion. If it weren’t for the fact that we five literally have a destiny to fight demons, I’m pretty sure that all of you would have understandably dumped me at this point—”

Sage wasn’t tactile by nature, not unless he was genuinely distressed, but he took Rowen’s hands in his own regardless. He marveled at how warm Rowen’s hands were. “That’s enough negativity for today. Rowen, you may not be especially adept at expressing yourself in the traditional means. But you more than makeup for that in your actions. You’ve been practically living in my apartment. You let me in your mind. You learned to fly to save me from Cale. The only reason you weren’t able to help me is that I’m a stubborn punk.”

Rowen’s smile was a little stronger now. “Sage? A punk? This does not compute.”

“You never knew me when I was young.” Sage squeezed Rowen’s hands. “I’ve just realized another good thing about reneging on my decision to merge the realms. Now I can keep watching you practice kyudo.”

Rowen laughed breathlessly. “Okay. But how about I pay you back by watching you practice kendo?”

Sage blinked in surprise. “But you have exams to study for. Are you sure you want to cut into your study time just to watch me swing a sword?”

“You and I both know you do way more than just swinging a sword. And besides, I know how to multitask.”

“I suppose we’ll all need to learn how to multitask if we plan to get into the same high school…” Sage paused when he felt his sister’s presence. “Oh, Satsuki is by the door. Could you let her in, please?” Rowen left the bed and walked to the door. When he opened it, Sage was struck by just how tall Satsuki was now. She was just now in Junior High and she was almost Sage’s height. He was also startled by just how strong she was when she grabbed him in a hug. She wasn’t his baby sister anymore—she was a young athlete. He’d missed so much of her growing up when he left Miyagi…

“Hey, Sage.” She managed a grin, sitting next to him on the bed. “How are you holding up?”

“Adequately,” he answered. When Satsuki’s attempt at smiling faded, he felt guilt wash over him. “Satsuki, please accept my apologies. I never wanted you to see me in that state.” She was the only member of the family that hadn’t seen him in his lower moments (and could remember it, at least).

Satsuki huffed, running her hands through her long, dark hair. “I don’t care about that crap! Um, sorry about the language,” she quickly added when Sage glared and Rowen gaped at her. “What I mean is, I love you. Not some idealization of you. That said, it might be a good time for your self-esteem for me to remind you that you are the coolest guy in the world.” Rowen nodded in agreement.

Sage glared at them both. “Doubtful.”

“It’s true! You’re, like, the best kendo guy in Japan. You kick demon butt all the time. You can mess up reality with your brain and you drive a sports car! You even live next to Tokyo, the coolest city ever! That’s why I—” Satsuki coughed. “It’s probably too early to mention that part.”

He didn’t read her mind, but her body language made it clear that despite her words, Satsuki desperately wanted to share her secret. “Go on. I don’t mind.”

“Well,” Satsuki began, almost bouncing, “remember the last time we spoke on the phone in March?”

“You were upset because the private school you wished to attend was too expensive.” He had offered to help with the tuition, but Satsuki had been stubborn and insisted he needed to save his paychecks for rent and bills.

“Well, it turns out that they have a kendo scholarship—and that they take transfer applicants.” She beamed at Sage. “Which means starting next semester, I’ll be taking classes in Tokyo near you. But don’t worry. The scholarship also covers dorm costs. I won’t be trying to invade your privacy.”

“I do appreciate my privacy,” Sage admitted. “But I’ve learned that there is a thing as too much alone time. Perhaps you could come to visit me. You could even stay at my place over the weekends.”

“Really?! Oh my God, that’s gonna be so much fun!” Satsuki squeaked. “We could even have some parties!”

“There shall be no parties at my apartment,” Sage informed her promptly. “We shall study, practice, and mediate as good students should.”

“Aw, but Sagey—”

“Don’t Sagey me,” he warned her.

“Sagey,” Rowen whispered under his breath.

“Don’t tell me you haven’t let loose once or twice,” Satsuki gently poked him in his ribs. “You were going on about that party you went to at Mouri’s place.”

“Touché. Perhaps a small gathering would be permissible. But that’s it—I’m getting ready for high school exams early and you have a scholarship to maintain, young lady.”

“The cadence, the implied familiarity,” Rowen murmured. “Amazing.”

“Heh, I win!” She hugged him again. “I better get back to the hotel before Mom and Dad throw a fit. But I love you and I am so glad you didn’t die.” She scrubbed at her eyes as she pulled away. “I’ll talk to you on the phone. We can even get an e-mail account set up for you. And I’m definitely going to see you later this year.” After a bow and thanks to Rowen for helping to save her brother, she left.

Rowen turned his attention to Sage. “I was wondering if—”

“Only Satsuki gets to call me that.”

Rowen snapped his fingers in frustration. “Drat.”

--

When his grandfather visited, Sage was relieved that he was finally strong enough to get dressed. He was more casual than usual (a suit jacket over a shirt and slacks) since he wasn’t sure he had enough energy to tie a tie. “Grandfather,” he said with a bow when the older gentleman entered the room. “Please forgive me. It seems like no matter what I do, I’m at the mercy of my emotions.”

“That just means you’re human, Sage.” Grandfather… patted his head, which was unusual. “What I would like to know is what you plan to do now.”

“Serve Mia for the rest of my life.”

Grandfather shook his head. “I’m not talking about that. Sage, what you did only confirmed my suspicions. You are the strongest psychic I have met in my life. I suspect you will only grow stronger. You can work for Ms. Koji, of course. But you’ll need to be able to control what you can do.”

“I wanted to talk to you about that, actually. I was hoping I could return to Miyagi and train this break. If possible, I’d like to bring Cye Mouri with me.” Cye had worked himself to the brink of death twice. He needed more training than Sage alone could provide. “I want to work on my shields as well as preserving my general sense of self. Then, once I am confident that I can be around the Jewel of Life again, I will seek out the Ancient One.”

“Interesting. May I ask why?”

“The Ancient One informed me that he donned the Armor of the Inferno to avenge his family. I was too upset at the time to read further into that, but… he did not react as a man who had no family left when he told me that. If anything, he seemed like he had a plan.”

“Even more interesting.” Grandfather stroked his chin thoughtfully. “What do you think he has planned?”

“Nothing wicked. He’s tried that before and like myself, thankfully realized it was a mistake before it was too late to take it back. But he also vanished right after the final battle for a reason. I would like to know why, and if possible, help him with his plan. I think… I think he may still have a relative out there, somewhere. If so, I would like to help him as he helped me.”

“You know, I was scared for you.” Grandfather’s voice was softer than Sage had ever heard in his life. “You were pushed to your breaking point, manipulated to believe that your life had no meaning beyond what you could do for others. But you came back to us. You even want to help the gentleman who’s indirectly responsible for what happened to you. You’re a good man, Sage. Thank you for choosing to stay with us.”

Sage had meant to thank him like a gentleman. Instead, he found himself grabbing his grandfather in a tight hug. I love you, Grandfather.

Hmm. Grandfather hugged him back. I don’t remember you being so tactile, Sage.

My friends are. I suppose it’s rubbed off of me. I need to speak to Cye. Is it going to be okay if he comes with me if he wants?

“Of course.” Grandfather patted his back. “I think having a friend with you is a wonderful idea.”

--

Sage was concerned but not surprised when he sensed Cye in the kitchen. He relaxed a little when he also sensed Sayoko. There was no way that Cye could exhaust himself if she was keeping an eye on him. He went downstairs carefully (he felt better, but the dizziness had not fully abated) before heading into the kitchen. “Hello?”

“Sage!” Cye beamed at him over the meatloaf. “Is there anything I can make for you? There’s some iced tea in the fridge; I’ll pour you a cup once my hands are free.”

“Thank you, but if you’re cooking tonight, I’ll save my appetite.” Sage took out three glasses. After retrieving the pitcher, he poured the tea. “Uncle Shuu’s cooking is amazing, but I’ve missed your cuisine.”

“Oh, it’s nothing special. I’m just glad that I feel strong enough to cook again at all. But if you’re pouring tea, I’ll get the salad started. I should probably think about dessert as well.”

“Cye,” Sayoko told him firmly. “I’ll make the salad. If anyone really needs dessert, there are cookies in the pantry.”

“Ugh.” Cye made a face, but he did sit down. “Those are so dry.”

“We’ll live.” Sayoko washed her hands. “You need to give yourself some time to actually recover.”

“I don’t want to recover if it involves just sitting around and reflecting or whatever,” Cye grumbled. “I want to do stuff to make things better.”

Sage handed him some tea. “Yes, but then you push your body to the point of exhaustion.” When Sage was training Cye, there had been some… spirited discussions about that. “Which is why I propose that we go to Miyagi over the next school break to train with my grandfather. We both need to rebuild our shields.” Cye wasn’t going to want to hear this part, but it needed to be said. “Also, I’ve realized that both of us give way too much of ourselves in trying to save others. It almost cost you your life. It almost cost me my soul. I’m not saying we should stop caring for others, but I think we both need to find ways to care for others that don’t involve getting ourselves nearly killed.”

“Thank you!” Sayoko was in the process of slicing tomatoes for the salad. “Why is it you were able to say everything I’ve been trying to tell him for years so neatly?!”

Sage shrugged. “I understand him in this aspect of his life. At least I hope so.”

“You do, unfortunately.” Cye sipped his tea. He gazed at Sage; eyes dark. “I don’t think it’s wrong to want to end pain.”

“It’s not,” Sage replied gently. “But if you keep doing this, you’ll end up like your father.”

Cye let out a small huff of breath. “I’ve had poor experiences with people teaching me how to use my abilities in the past, but I’m guessing that your grandfather is a good teacher?”

“He is. He taught me everything I know.”

“You don’t say.” Cye turned his gaze to his sister. “What do you think, Sayoko?”

“I think you’re a young man who can make his own decisions.” She kissed the top of his head before placing the salad on the kitchen table. “But it sounds like a good idea. The Dates can help you in a way I can’t.” She grabbed the remaining glass, gulping down the tea. “Just make sure to call me and e-mail me, okay?”

Cye nodded. “One or the other, if not both, every night. Otherwise, you get lonely.”

Sayoko slammed down her glass. “You bloody better believe that I do!” Cye laughed while Sage did his best to hide a grin… then froze when he felt a familiar presence.

Cye blinked. “Sage? What’s wrong… oh. I feel it as well.”

Sayoko’s expression was neutral as she greeted their visitor. “Yayoi Date. It’s nice to meet you outside of battle. I’m Sayoko Mouri, and this is my brother—”

“I read papers; I know who you are. Grandfather has informed me about the legend of the Ronin Warriors and the role Mr. Mouri plays in that legend as well.” Yayoi didn’t take off her faux fur coat as she approached Sage. “How are you holding up?”

He could sense her unease. Her fear that she would say the wrong thing. What she had thought years ago still stung, but she wasn’t that angry person anymore. Neither was Sage. So, he held out his arms for a hug and hoped for the best.

He was rewarded when she grabbed him tight. “I’m so sorry. It must have been terrible.”

“It was,” Sage found himself admitting to Yayoi of all people. “I felt so alone.”

“I’m not saying it’s the same,” she offered, “but I’ve had trouble connecting to others as well—as you found out the hard way.” She pulled away, giving him a wry grin. “Maybe we should work on that together.”

“Well, I will be in Miyagi over break.”

“Glorious. E-mail me your schedule and I’ll see where I can fit you in. I’m in med school, you know.” And with a pointed look at Sayoko as she glided out the door, she added, “and unlike some people, I take my getting my degree seriously.”

Sayoko made a dash for the door. Cye barely stopped her in time.

“Oh, c’mon Cye, just one bonk on the head!” Sayoko bellowed. “That’s all I’m asking!”

“Sayoko, I’m mad at her too, but you can’t fight Sage’s sister! It’s a rule I just made up!” Cye yelped. “We’ll send her a sternly worded letter—” They both stopped when Sage started laughing. A full-on belly laugh, even.

“I’m sorry,” he managed when he realized that they were staring at him. “One can tell that you two are close right away. I’m envious, frankly. I wish I was that close to my sisters.” However, he’d be visiting Miyagi soon. Not to mention Satsuki would be moving to Tokyo. “Since I didn’t sacrifice myself to merge the realms after all, I suppose I could correct that.”

“Yes, you could,” Sayoko promised him cheerfully. “Listen, boys, I need to head home and get all this new info plugged into my database. But you know where to find me. Also, Sage?” Her cheeks were flushed with embarrassment. “Sorry about trying to beat up your sister.”

“Yayoi is a difficult person,” Sage conceded. “But I do appreciate your and your brother’s patience with her.”

--

“Sage!” Mia looked up at him in concern. “Shouldn’t you be in bed?”

“I’ve been in bed for almost a week.” He took her hand. “I’m sorry for everything.”

Mia took a shaky breath. “Just—please. Don’t leave me alone. Not like that.”

“With your permission, I’ll never leave your side again.” He couldn’t bring the Professor back. Merging the realms would have hurt her and their friends. But he could stay by Mia’s side and protect her. But also… “Thank you for bringing me back. And for letting me rest here.” Those were debts even a lifetime of service could never truly repay, but he was willing to try.

“Thank you for staying.” She gave him a watery smile. “You were my first real friend. I wouldn’t know what to do if you weren’t here. But for now,” she said as she took his hand, “let’s get some food.”

“How many people will be eating with us?”

“Just the other guys and White Blaze. Everyone else has headed back.”

“I see.” That felt… that felt right.

--

Final Notes: Yes, this was the ideal time to do a stealth crossover with The Real Ghostbusters. ;P (I mean, it already was with Egon and Janine being heavy influences for Genichirou and Tomoko, but still.) The final chapter is already plotted out in my head. It will (probably) be shorter, so I may be able to upload it sooner rather than later. But work is quite busy right now, so no promises.

(Rowen being Egon and Janine's son is the hill I will die on. /jk!)