Love Hina - Nijuuhachi Hi Ato

Epilogue

28 Days Later

From Motoko's eyes

A nightmare… That's what we all went through, everybody in our group lost someone they love in the chaos that spread from Japan.

The other countries were lucky though.

The reports that Suu told us were true. Some Infected accidentally got into the cargo holds of some planes, and escaped when they landed. By then, all airports were fully militarised, and the unlucky creatures died under heavy gunfire. There was no further leakage, aside from the blood that lay on the cold tarmac beside the planes.

After the surviving few arrived on the crowded planes, they talked of the Infected and their experiences. These stories were corrupted as they glossed over the details on how they escaped. Rumours spread, extortion, millions of yen for one ticket, and even killing in the terminals. These survivors were not innocent, either they were extremely rich, very strong, or just plain lucky. Regardless, each one would have had to climb over the bodies of those who failed to make it.

The truth will never be known.

Naturally, all flights, cruises and any form of travel to Japan were forbidden, under penalty of death. The UN passed a regulation stating that an expedition mission could 'visit', but only with the express permission of all the members, a 100 vote. This will never happen, which is good.

Japan will never be populated again. The only possibility of this being false is if the Infected eventually die out, or some sort of weapon that can wipe out all biological forms of life. Suffice to say, such technology does not exist, at least not for many years. Although it's more than likely that the human race will use it on each other than risk it on Japan. There is also the chance that one Infected will survive, that's all it took to send the country into hell, devastation and abandonment.

Approximately fifty boats and light aircraft escaped from Japan during the course of the two days after the planes left. All of them were subsequently rescued by the UN. Since then, we were only ones to make it out.

Our departure drew worldwide attention, first because we were such a large group, and secondly due to the Molmol intervention that temporarily crippled the UN southern Japan fleet. Once their ships arrived at Okinawa, we were transported safely to Molmol as guests of honour. The world's media were there to see who could've made it out after a month. Naturally no one wanted to talk, and we were protected by Suu's family.

No, in fact there was one interview, Suu sat in the Royal press hall, in front of hundreds of journalists, photographers and cameras…

One week after rescue

"All rise for her Royal Highness, heir to the throne of the Kingdom of Molmol." The representative said.

There was a sound of chairs scraping and shoes squeaking as everyone did as they were told. Suu walked in looking serious, she was wearing her traditional sari. Her complexion was much better after getting some treatment for the radiation, though walked with a slight limp as the wound on her stomach affected one of her legs. In her left ear she had a small box with an antenna, able to translate any non-Japanese into her native language. While walking to the seat she spotted the TV cameras and beamed happily waving to them.

She sat down at a table accompanied by a few elite guards and a woman who look similar, but older and with light violet hair.

She waved her hand at everyone in a mildly amused manner "Come on, sit down now." She grinned, pleased by the confused looks in front of her.

Everyone had been briefed beforehand, she was going to give a brief statement, then would allow time for some questions, although it would be up to her whether or not she wanted to answer them.

Suu picked up a document already on the table, cleared her throat, and spoke clearly into the international translator microphone.

"On behalf of the entire Royal Family of Molmol, as Crown Princess to the Throne, I hereby ask for forgiveness from the United Nations for the damage suffered to their fleet by the Molmol Navy. This was not an attack on your nations or organisation as a whole. It was matter of protection of Royalty in the worst possible circumstances, and there was no guarantee that I would be safe in your hands. We will donate the appropriate funds needed to repair the vessels and any personal medical bills and other expenses. I hope this can be resolved amicably, as one day we will be sending a request to join the UN. I also thank you for your leniency in your attitude towards us since that day, allowing us time to give an explanation for our reasons."

She breathed out loudly, scrunched up the paper and threw it over her shoulder. "There, done." She kept her happy expression as she looked over the journalists. "Now, questions please!"

Instantly the room erupted in spontaneous hand raising, though the silence remained. Moving her finger about in a comical way, counting to herself she indicated someone randomly.

"I know you! In that tight light grey suit with the sweat patches!"

The reporter stood up, quite embarrassed, and bowed slightly. "John Simpson, BBC News, your Highness."

She smiled kindly. "Call me Suu."

He smiled back, his professionalism returning. "Suu, you have been through a terrible ordeal, one that few have experienced. I believe the question the world wants to know is, how did you survive in a land where every living person was your enemy?"

Suu pondered how to make the answer short but detailed enough for them to grasp everything. "I was with my friends, each very strong people in their own way. Swords, guns, martial arts and sake." She giggled at the private joke. "I think we all helped each other to survive, and worked together." She looked down. "We killed many of the Infected, I've lost count. Each time we did, we knew that they were humans, but –" She looked up, her stare composed. "- we never lost hope, not even when…" She paused again. "… when one of us became Infected, not even after we ran into the soldiers…"

This drew a surprised reaction from the crowd, unaware that other humans were still there. Suu shook her head. "I won't go on about them today, but they're all dead now." She cheered up considerably. "We had a mission, to get out alive. We all focussed on that one goal and we did that through each other's strength. We're alive, here today to speak to you, because of the love and trust we had for one another. And…" She chuckled inside at a certain someone's favourite quote. "Nothing is impossible if you try. You can do anything if you try hard enough."

Mr Simpson smiled and nodded back. "I believe that covers everything I wanted to know, thank you."

"Nahaha, okay, next question!"

Again, the throng of hands reappeared.

"Hmm, okay," She pointed into the audience, "that man with the black, fake Armani suit!"

Amara Suu sighed and rolled her eyes, as the jolted reporter stood up to the sound of chuckles.

"Ted Koppel, ABC Nightline, Princess Suu…" He spoke sincerely.

"There's no need for formalities, just call me Your Maharajasness."

Amara Suu planted a palm on her face muttering 'I don't believe it' under her breath. Some of the reporters sniggered as Mr Koppel played along. "Your Maharajasness… I actually have two questions, quick ones mind." He added quickly upon seeing the representative bristle. "How did you enter Japan? From what I recall, the travel ban was imposed early September, yet you weren't in Japan at that time."

Suu merely shrugged and winked. "It's a secret."

"Finally, there were reports that one of your group is Infected and currently here in Molmol, would you care to corroborate this further?"

Suu smiled back enigmatically. "Everyone who came back with me from Okinawa is a normal human, none of us are Infected."

"Thank you for your replies Your Maharajasness." Mr Koppel gave a short bow and sat down again.

More hands were raised. "I choose you!" The man stood up.

"Pedro Piqueras, RNE, Princesa Suu." He bowed before continuing. "We're aware that in your group, nine escaped from mainland Japan, you included, along with some friends from the virus-free Okinawa. However we have no details of your group as access to them has been highly restricted. We only have some blurry photos of the arrival and in the palace. Could you tell us who travelled with you?"

Suu leaned back pensively, then spoke. "I don't think it matters. Besides, it's up to them to say so if they want… I'd like you to respect their privacy for now, and if they wish to come forward, then let them."

The man thanked her and sat down again. Suu picked another person from the crowd.

"Robert Ménard, RSF, Mademoiselle Suu." He tilted his head downwards and spoke. "I noticed that you seem to be limping, did you suffer an injury while in Japan?"

Amara Suu spoke into her microphone. "The health of Royalty does not –"

"It's okay oneechan." Suu interrupted gently. She turned to the speaker. "Yes I did, but I'm being treated here regularly so I'm healing well." She paused then added. "We were all injured in some way, some seriously, others just needing plenty of sleep. Staying alive was more important than our own physical wellbeing."

Again, more hands were raised after he sat down. Suu picked a striking red-headed woman in a sharp suit.

"Maureen Dowd, New York Times. Suu, what do you plan on doing now that you have left Japan?"

"Dunno…" She gave a bemused gesture. "Maybe run the country for a bit…" She waved her hand in circles to indicate the whole island. "The others… I don't know yet, if they can't get money from their bank accounts in Japan, then I'll give them some, then they can do what they want. They're welcome to stay and live with me, or travel the world. I don't mind what they do, but they're always welcome to come here and visit me." She smiled, remembering how close they had all become.

"Thank you, Suu." Ms Dowd sat down, but as more hands were raised, the representative cleared his throat loudly.

"I'm afraid that's all the questions for now. May I ask you to please not infringe on our guests further as they have been through a hard ordeal. We will inform you if anyone wants to come forward and give an interview."

Suu stood up and waved goodbye to everyone else, dragging her sister out of the room. "Suu! Stop that… You should act more like a princess…" The curtains were closed and the journalists filed out of the room.

From Motoko's eyes

And that was it, soon every paper in the world had the entire transcript of the peculiar young heir to the throne of Molmol, with some flattering pictures of her being animated in the press conference. Everyone spoke favourably of her and looked forward to seeing her in the future. Thanks to her words, the UN did nothing more and accepted the donation to repair their ships, and more importantly, their apology. Letters of condolences and support flooded into the palace, from the ordinary person on the street, to some foreign dignitaries, inviting us to dinner or a tour of the White House.

None of us forgot that they all happily ignored and avoided Japan since the quarantine began, so we refused them all.

Suu was clever, she had installed some strange technology around the palace walls. This managed to ruin any attempts to film inside the barrier, and even to take photos with a zoom lens. Our privacy was honoured, though there were one or two who tried to get in, only to be forcefully ejected by the guards.

The reporter was right though, the only photos of us were very grainy, and taken with such a low resolution meant that our faces were nothing but large blocks of colour. We could leave the palace whenever we wanted, there was a secret entrance only we could use, in one of the normal buildings in town, Suu had it there for a while so she could escape from her tutors in the past. She did offer to give us plastic surgery to prevent us from being recognised as Japanese, but we all declined, preferring the easier option of veils and in the case of Keitaro, beards and moustaches. We blended in amongst the tourists and news reporters, wearing traditional Molmol clothes, and generally getting used to other humans again.

It was about a week after her conference that each of us visited the local graveyard, in order to pray…

1st December

4:55pm

The sun was still high in the sky, being closer to the equator meant that the sun didn't set as early as in Japan. Soon, a group of people entered the cemetery in two private cars (not affiliated with the palace). Everyone got out slowly, their moods fairly sombre. Suu was there as well, albeit wearing a veil to disguise her face in case anyone recognised her. For once, everyone didn't have a disguise on. Motoko wore a long dress similar to her old school uniform, as her hakama and gi were beyond repair and too distinctive. Her katanas were nowhere in sight. Shinobu, Naru, and Mutsumi wore dresses to protect them from the sun, while Keitaro, Mitsune, Sara and Haruka wore trousers or jeans with a top. Kanako came out too, her left arm up to her elbow bandaged securely, wearing a seemingly heavy black suit with odd lumps on it.

Approaching the others, Keitaro smiled at her, receiving one in return, and he escorted her to the shrine that was set up to the Japanese. These had been placed in each country at least once, to always keep in mind the loss that one country produced for the entire world.

The electronics industry suffered greatly, innovation-wise as production was based overseas, the culture all but wiped out, and entire markets wiped out, manga and anime being the main one as the source no longer produced any new series. While some may not have been influential on a world scale, there were those that would miss the items that came out of that country. Only when people realised they would never have any true Japanese goods did people take more notice. Fake grief was expressed by cashing in on the death of the Japanese, the multitude of sushi restaurants popping up the obvious sign of this, auctioneers selling anything from a Meiji era katana to the latest manga from the survivors. The Far East made a killing, almost literally, in selling 'Made in Japan' goods.

Keitaro felt behind Kanako's neck and twisted the small dial there. Her breathing eased and she moved more smoothly.

"Thank you oniichan…" She blushed.

"For today it'll be fine, you've been lucid lately, and deserve a break."

Suu nodded her agreement and walked next to Kanako, hooking her arm into the nook of the left side. She had built a special suit which somehow managed to increase weight. This was to prevent Kanako from running away or going insane, as it reacted to brainwave patterns. If it reverted to a base nature, rage, then the suit would thicken and prevent her from moving. Even when she was human, the suit was kept at a high level to remind her other self that she couldn't just run amok.

Haruka and Motoko glanced back, seeing the relieved expression on Kanako's face. "She's been doing well controlling that side of her…" Motoko wondered.

"It must be hard for her having to deal with it…" Haruka said, troubled. I thought we would have to kill her… Suu put her in the brig with Keitaro keeping watch, just in case Kanako went back…

"Did you hear the latest news?" Motoko asked. "Apparently, someone else was found drifting on the sea."

"Well, well, that's surprising…" Haruka muttered. "Who would've thought that would happen?"

Soon they had reached the shrine, past the torii into the small building where the butsudan lay in the centre. Putting some incense sticks in the sand pots, they were about to pray silently before Haruka pulled out a photo of Seta that she kept in her pocket, placing it behind the sticks. He was grinning audaciously, trying to boost his ego. Motoko understood, and brought out one of her sister. She was also in the picture, smiling as much as her elder.

People then brought out things that reminded them of their families. Shinobu had a locket that her parents bought for her last birthday, Naru took off a bracelet her sister gave her, Mitsune brought out a miniature sake bottle keychain, and Sara took off her oversized watch. Suu and Mutsumi had nothing personal tying their families there, but they took out a banana and watermelon respectively, making everyone laugh quietly. Kanako was demure, she was still afraid of what the others thought of her after all that happened. She placed the photo of her and Keitaro next to Seta's picture.

Keitaro had nothing left to remind him of his parents, except for one. He opened up the letter that they wrote before dying. Reading it out loud, everyone took a moment to let the words sink in, before he placed it on the shrine. Everyone placed their hands together and bowed their heads in prayer.

A few minutes later, they walked off, picking up their belongings, leaving the building one by one. Motoko held back a bit and spoke to someone behind her.

"So that person was you then?"

"Yeah… I'm surprised you sensed me…" Shin walked out of the shadows and bowed at the burning incense.

Motoko turned and walked back. "I'm surprised you came here of all places."

He remained bowed. "I heard from the people that picked me up that you lot escaped with a big battle. I knew I'd find you here."

Motoko remained neutral, still not comfortable with the man who married her sister. "What are you going to do now?"

Standing up, he sighed. "I don't know, I'm going to try and start again, fish maybe…"

Motoko relented at last. "You shouldn't blame yourself for what happened to my sister. The least you can do for her is live happily."

He looked at her, surprised. "I thought I'd be saying that to you… I suppose you're right. I still miss her though…"

"We all lost someone, but we can't be sad forever, just lucky that we lived."

"I saw that Kanako made it out and kept her humanity." Motoko gawped at him. "We met in Kyoto, I destroyed the transmitter of that group."

Motoko nodded. "Better to stop others from going there to their deaths waiting for them." She turned serious. "I don't like the fact that you took my sister away from me, but I don't want to see you depressed for her passing."

He smiled wryly. "I understand…" He walked off into the trees. "I'll ask the palace if they need a new fisherman, for now, then I'll see."

Motoko smiled back, walking out into the sun to join up with the others.

"So, what's everyone going to do?" Suu asked.

Many were quiet, unsure themselves as to what they want. Mitsune decided to speak up.

"I've been thinking for a while now, and I know that I'll find it hard to work abroad. The only thing I know I'm good at is writing, my old freelance job was fun while it lasted…" She took in a breath and continued. "I want to write about what happened, to me, to all of us. I know I wasn't there in the beginning, and that I missed out on lots of details, but I want to write my side of the story." Her face grew red with disgrace. "I'm ashamed… I know it'll make money since we're so famous, and…" She opened her eyes and stared at Keitaro. "I want to start paying you back for all the rent I skipped out on."

Keitaro waved his hands at her. "D… Don't be silly Kitsune! You don't need to do that now. I managed to get my money out, the banks graciously froze the exchange rate since before –"

"No…" She stood firm. "I won't have it. I'm paying you back and that's final…"

"Then…" He contemplated his next words carefully. "Then, if you're writing about yourself, write about my side too…" She was shocked. "You'll earn more money that way.

"I don't want to be world famous, but you can also get my experiences." Motoko joined in.

"Auuu, Kitsune-san is being nice to Keitaro…" Shinobu started tearing up. "I'll help too…"

Naru didn't want to be left out. "M… Me too!"

Soon, everyone joined in, Haruka, Sara, Suu, even Mutsumi. Kanako was feeling ignored again and stammered out.

"I… I want to help too…" She turned to her. "No one here knows what I've been through. The pain, the suffering, the unknown…" She picked at her left arm unconsciously. "I want to say so–"

"Don't be sorry, Kanako-san." Shinobu tried to cheer her up. "You just wanted to find sempai, and the cure had side effects…"

"Yeah…" Mitsune put a hand on her shoulder. "We've forgiven you a long time ago."

"We still haven't adjusted properly…" Motoko continued. "It's hard to think that there's no more Infected running about. It takes some getting used to."

Haruka took a puff on her cigarette. "These things take time… Soon you'll be normal again, and can do whatever you want."

Kanako shed clear tears. "Th… Thank you… It really means a lot to me…" She wiped her eyes roughly, leaving a sheen over her cheeks.

Keitaro pulled her closer to him. "You're my only family now, I need to take care of you."

She sniffed as she hugged him, the group happy that they finally revealed what made them so cautious. Mitsune pulled out a notebook.

"So, I'll make this a diary of sorts, of what happened before, and then when each person met up… I hate to say this, but it'll be a best seller!"

"I know you can do it justice Kitsune." Keitaro grinned. Everyone agreed, giving thumbs-up signs and a general positive vibe.

"I think it would help us too…" Motoko stated. "A way to let our demons go finally…"

Murmurs of agreement were heard as they walked back to the cars. Shinobu skipped over next to Suu.

"How are you Suu? Does it hurt still?"

Suu gave a brave face. "Yeah, a little…" She massaged her stomach. "I only absorbed around 150 REM… That's why the blood wouldn't stop flowing." Shinobu winced at the thought. "The doctors are doing okay, the radiation has gone, but I'm still getting patched up." Shinobu frowned slightly until Suu clarified. "Stitches. Until they can be removed, I can't jump about for a bit." She grinned and grabbed her friend's hand, changing the subject radically. "Shinobu! Do you want to live with me forever?"

"Huh!" Her eyes turned into swirls as they walked on ahead of the others. "Auuu… This is too fast Suu… I'm not ready for -"

"They seem to be having fun." Naru muttered.

"Guess the peace around here can do that…" Mitsune replied, glancing sideways at her friend. She noticed the subtle stares at Kanako. So, she still doesn't trust her… Sighing inside she knew it was a lost cause. Well, she was beaten up by her back in Okinawa, she was in hospital for a while as the bruises were deep purple. At least she had no broken bones…

They had reached the cars and went in, being delivered back to the palace for some rest.

From Motoko's eyes

Things began to change from that day forth. Naru withdrew from us, especially Kanako, she didn't speak to her once unless Kanako asked her directly. Even then it was at mealtimes, when she wanted her to pass some food. We weren't sure of how to deal with her, Keitaro still held the burden of her dead sister on his mind, so he couldn't get close to her, for fear of hurting her more. Even Mitsune gave up, after trying her best to coax her out of her shell.

I suppose it was inevitable that some of us would need counselling. Naru was the first, due to her recent behaviour and to prevent her from snapping. It'll be a long time before she heals, the emotional wounds she suffered can't be healed by ordinary medicine.

Haruka was second into the chair. She, like Keitaro in a way, would hold herself responsible for Seta-san's Infection, and also his quick demise. However, she was an adult, and had already reached a level where the blame didn't hurt too much, though she still had doubts, her fear of commitment triggered her angry responses each time. Sara joined in on some of those sessions, and while I don't know what went on in there, Haruka came out looking much happier with the young child. Maybe having someone to look after meant that you had to settle your own problems quicker.

I have a feeling that they'll be leaving the country soon, to seek their fortunes elsewhere.

Kitsune-san is starting the first drafts for each of our stories… It will be difficult for me, speaking about everything. However, I want to rid my hands of the blood of the first person I killed… To put everything behind me…

The palace

Guest quarters

Mitsune was sitting at a desk with a notepad and dictaphone, with a brown haired girl next to her. Motoko sat opposite them, and was surprised when the girl spoke Japanese.

"Sorry, Motoko." Mitsune held out a hand to her colleague. "Meet Nabiki Tendo, she's going to be helping me edit and promote the book."

"Nice to meet you Motoko-san." She held out a hand, Motoko shook it in reply. "Hmm… You're definitely a swordswoman… I've heard a lot about you from Mitsune."

"How could you tell?" Motoko wasn't wearing her kendo outfit any more, nor did she carry about her swords.

Nabiki held up her hand and grinned knowingly. "I felt calluses, meaning you practise almost every day, much like a certain stupid man I knew once."

Motoko narrowed her eyes.

"Not that I think that about you…" Nabiki looked down. "I know a little of what you lot went through, and I want to make sure the world hears about it…"

"If you don't mind my asking, how did Kitsune-san find you?"

"Well, it was more the other way round…" Nabiki recalled the past. "A group of us escaped from Nerima, losing… some people… on the way. I don't have many contacts outside Japan, but I was lucky that someone owed me a favour, someone in Molmol." She leaned back and shrugged. "The rest was easy, I was informed that the famous survivors were living in the palace, and that they were about to write a book, so naturally I wanted to help."

Motoko could tell the glint in her eyes was similar to Mitsune at times. "Let me guess, 30 is yours?"

Nabiki chuckled to herself. "No…" She stopped and looked serious, thinking about her own experiences. "My fee is only 5, because I have a large debt to pay off to someone close to me…"

Mitsune also bore the same expression as she clicked her ball point pen and prepared the tape recorder.

"Okay Motoko." Mitsune started, her eyes possessing the same haunted look that began to mirror her own. "We're going to start from where you were at the time of the first cases being reported, leading up to Hinata-sou, then wherever you went until you met me. I'll stop to ask you questions of specific points, but I'm not going to press you." She twirled the pen in her fingers. "I'll then ask for your own feelings once we all travelled together, if there were any moments you felt strongly about anything, including Kyoto…"

Mitsune's eyes were open and rather watery, but held them in. "Ah, almost forgot…" She pulled out a super deluxe size of tissue paper and placed it on the table. "We'll probably need this too…"

Motoko nodded, her eyes prickling a little as she began.

Two hours later

The pack was half full, as all three girls were blowing their noses.

"I… I think that'll be enough for today, Motoko." Nabiki had gotten to know more about the warrior than most people close to her, hence the lack of suffix. "We'll ask you for more stories later."

Mitsune nodded too, her eyes red. "We haven't even left Tokyo yet… I didn't know what you did all that time!"

"I just did what was enough to survive." Motoko sniffed, recalling the story of her sister brought back fresh tears.

Nabiki shook her head. "You did more than that, you risked your life to save Keitaro… He must be very special to you…"

Motoko paused, and then relaxed. "Yes, he is…"

Mitsune was only take aback slightly. She noticed the two of them getting closer, without Naru vying for his attention so much, she saw them together often, even if it was just talking.

"If you don't mind, I'll take my leave now." Motoko stood up.

"Thank you… I know it can't be easy…"

Nabiki held out a hand, then withdrew it, instead choosing to pull the taller girl into a light hug. Mitsune joined in too, unsure as to why, but she felt like it.

The Japanese have been wiped off the planet, all that remains is us.

They pulled out of the hug, and all looked embarrassed. "I hope you'll stay around for a bit after you get the book published…" Motoko said unexpectedly.

Nabiki wiped her wet eyes. "I… I'd like that."

Smiling once, Motoko walked out of the room as Nabiki and Mitsune looked over the notes, starting to discuss the story.

Meanwhile

Elsewhere in the palace

Motoko could never get used to the luxury, the walls were shiny, as if they were cleaned each day, the floors were sparkling, and guards were always in sight of one another. They always bowed to any of the guests, a sign of respect, Motoko had grown used to it, but always acknowledged them.

She walked into the kitchens, a place where she isn't supposed to go as her meals were always provided for, however, she knew that there was someone there.

"How are you Shinobu?"

"Eep!" She yelped, forcing Motoko to lunge and catch the pot she was holding.

"Sorry for scaring you…" She looked into the whisked area. "What are you making?"

"Well… It's your birthday tomorrow, so I thought…"

"Thank you…"

Auuu, she's going to say that there's no need since she's a warrior…

"I'd like a kind of fruit cake, if it's not too much trouble, it has been a long while since I had some."

The young girl's face lit up. "O… Okay! I'll put lots of nice ingredients in…" She looked around the kitchen. "It's really nice here… The kitchen is so huge, but they won't let me cook…"

Seeing the tenseness, tight grip of the whisk and her uncertainty, Motoko asked.

"What's wrong Shinobu?"

"N… Nothing." She waved her hands about, but turned away and let her shoulders slump. "Suu… Suu wants me to stay here… She asked her parents to adopt me!"

Motoko was surprised, but smiled gently. "So you want to leave here then?"

"No, not really…" She continued mixing the ingredients. "Her family is nice, and I really like Suu…"

"So what's the problem?"

"Being adopted is too much… I…" She shook a little, and Motoko knew that she was about to cry.

"Did you speak to Kitsune-san yet?"

Shinobu nodded, rubbing her eyes.

"Do you feel guilty about your parents?"

"M… Maybe…" She looked up, her eyes desperate. "Am… Am I a bad girl if I forget my parents when I get adopted?" Her plea was heartfelt.

Motoko patted her head gently, stroking the deep blue strands. "No, because you will never forget your parents, just I will never forget my sister, and Keitaro his own parents… The same as with all of us. You're lucky that someone loves you enough to want to be your lawful sister for the rest of your days." She wiped the tears on Shinobu away with one hand. "What do you want to do?"

"I… I want my parents… But…" She looked up, speaking firmly. "They died so I could live."

"So?" Motoko prodded, knowing what the answer would be.

"I want to be adopted…" She cried again. "I have no more family, I'd be all alone without Suu and everyone." She hugged Motoko.

"Tell Suu, and soon you'll have a real family, I'm sure they'll take great care of you."

Shinobu smiled, her rosy cheeks imitating Suu's for a moment, before nodding happily. "I'll do that now!"

Running off, her dark mood completely lifted, she ran off to find her new sister.

Motoko stepped out back into the gardens, then into a fortified base which was not dissimilar to an aircraft hangar. The guards, having recognised her, moved away and let her in, bowing as she went by. Swiping a card that Suu gave her, she walked into the inner corridor, waited for the door behind her to close, then entered the central chamber, hearing the sounds of sword swinging.

Panting, the person stopped and turned to see who came in.

"Hi Motoko-chan!" Keitaro sounded pleased, rubbing a towel across his sweaty forehead. "Ready for training?"

"Yes." She got dressed in a gi and hakama of her old colours, Keitaro already wearing the same. "Remember what I taught you?"

"Yes, sensei." He bowed slightly.

Since arriving, Keitaro asked Motoko to make him stronger, while the blade gave him untold powers and techniques, he had neither the stamina nor necessary muscle to use them without tiring out after ten minutes. The one thing he had going for him was his immortality and ability to heal relatively quickly.

"Okay, show me your strokes." She stood there, arms folded as he held his bokken with two hands, stepping forwards and striking thin air, stepping back and doing the same thing. He carried on for another minute until Motoko spoke again. "Very good, you seem to have gotten the hang of it finally. How are you holding up?"

He breathed out and smiled. "I'm feeling a lot healthier, it's not so hard to breathe as before, and I feel fitter."

Motoko gave a small smirk. "Maybe it's about time we spar, with the real thing."

Keitaro stared back in shock. "A… Are you sure? I… I'm not –"

"You've gotten a better feel for your ki, though you haven't quite learned the basics, you should be able to force some control over the soul that resides in the blade."

"O… Okay then…"

"Try not to hold back…" Motoko followed him to the wall. "Suu built this place for us, the walls are made to withstand a lot…"

Placing a palm on the panel, a door slid open and, wrapped in chains, extended the Hina Blade. It appeared to be shaking slightly as Keitaro put his hand on the hilt, removing the bindings slowly. He placed the sheath on his side and pulled it out, the metal still shining back at him as if it was new. Sensing the ki within it threatening to capture his being again, he closed his eyes and concentrated, then relaxed once it retreated.

Motoko waiting till he dropped the chain in the doorway, then placed her palm, as he did, on the hand scanner. Her two katanas came out on their ceremonial holders. Placing both of them on her belt, she drew both of them, the bells tingling as she did. The opening closed automatically.

Moving to the centre of the huge area, they stood away from each other, grinning with anticipation. Motoko spoke first.

"Show me what you've got, Keitaro." She adopted a two sword style stance.

"I'll try." He smiled back, and posed in an aggressive position of his own.

Fire swirled about on his blade, licking his hand, as the wind and electricity crackled around her swords. Running at each other, they yelled.

The swords all met in the middle, the powers colliding and creating an air shockwave. Motoko ground her teeth as Keitaro tried to push forwards. Knowing his weak spot, she twisted and kicked him in the legs, forcing him back.

"You never take care of your footing, Keitaro." She lectured, summoning wind around her. "That's always been your problem."

Keitaro laughed nervously. "Maybe that's why I'm clumsy…" Forcing his ki into the blade, he generated a fiery lance.

Again, they parried and attacked each other, Motoko constantly getting the upper hand on him as he tried to withstand her onslaught. The sounds of someone walking up to them made them pause. Turning, they saw Kanako without her gravity suit, wearing light, manoeuvrable clothing, with arm guards and black gloves.

"Is it okay if I join you?" Her red eyes pleaded. "I… I won't lose myself…"

Motoko lowered her swords. "You've maintained your sanity for two weeks now. 'That' side of you might never appear again, and you're even using it to your advantage, to unleash your power and tapping in to your evolved eyesight." She nodded. "Anything goes here, fight me or Keitaro, but no lethal blows."

Kanako nodded and crouched down, tensing her cruciate ligaments for sudden movement. Her fists glowed black and red.

Making the first move, Keitaro threw out his fire arrows at Motoko, who responded with a wall of wind, blowing them out, only have Kanako dive through to try to hit her. Knowing that she would do this, Motoko jumped high in the air, using her wind to her advantage, sending down mild lightning at the girl.

Flicking into heat and movement sight, Kanako barely got away from the bolts, before rolling into Keitaro and punching the flat side of his blade. He smiled at her, igniting it for a second, burning her gloves slightly.

"Zan Kuu Sen!"

They looked up at the ball of wind headed straight for them, and were about to dodge before it exploded, a blue laser piercing it. Confused, as Motoko landed lightly on her feet, they all stared at the entrance.

There they saw the rest of the crew, Suu pouting with her beam gun.

"You left me out…" She pulled out another one from behind her back. "I'll get you for that!"

Sara picked up one of the metal training dummies. "I still have to pay you back for back for trying to spank me!"

Haruka sighed, not wanting to bring her guns out here. Sara looked up at her, unsure of how she felt. Her guardian mellowed. "Go and play then, have fun." She smiled down at her.

Looking to her mischievous friend, Sara nodded. "Hit Keitaro!"

"I was going to!" Suu grinned, as they both ran in.

"I'm going to protect oniichan!" Kanako cried out, but her anger was tinted with humorous eyes, and a joking manner.

Shinobu watched from the sidelines. "Auu… Suu… Oneechan, sempai, be careful…"

Naru was behind her, gazing at the scene with listless eyes, the spark once in it no longer there. Watching them all cry out in fake pain and cries of pervert and laughter brought some of it back. She smiled.

Mitsune held her friend's shoulder. "You'll be fine Naru, we all will."

Nabiki was there too, staring in amazement. My, how nostalgic…

Soon, everyone was laughing out loud. Each of the combatants were grinning and enjoying themselves, while firing their guns, throwing inanimate objects, punching, kicking, slashing and sending waves of fire, wind and lightning everywhere. The spectators began to cheer them on, regardless of their own personal problems, tears of joy and laughter spreading through them, faster than any Infection.

The view panned away from the audience, moving through to the outside, where the guards suppressed grins of their own as they heard sounds of battle and laughter from inside.

In the end, they accidentally found the only way to beat anger, hatred, and enmity. It wasn't some miracle cure that was concocted in a secret lab.

Simply put, it was the simple acts of laughter, friendship and love, one which they shared for their years to come…

---

Author's Notes

Torii – The red gate you see at many shrines, look it up on Wikipedia.

Butsudan – A small shrine to the dead that Japanese people often have in their homes, I made a larger one for the purposes of the story.

Finally, the real ending of the story. I tried to recreate what happened to the world afterwards, and I think I made it believable that people would try to cash in on it. The reporters are all real people, to give it that authentic feel I thought would bring it back to reality.

Yes, Nabiki Tendo, from Ranma ½, is in this story, but I haven't given her much space, so don't consider it a crossover (though I'm having horrible thoughts of doing a spin off of her short story for the Ranma section).

I included a joke from the famous UK series 'Goodness Gracious Me', when Suu asked the reporter to call her 'Her Maharajasness'. That episode was hilarious, and I thought I should try to repeat it here.

I'm also trying to create some fanart of this series, having already done the 'poster', I have some images that I manipulated in Photoshop, namely a great close up of a darkened Kanako standing on the burning balcony in Kyoto. I also have an image of her in the suit I mentioned in this chapter. I'll be posting them on my site in a few days, as I'd like to get some more done. Please note that I am not an artist, the only things I can draw are guns, swords and other weapons. People I can't even begin with…

And in case any of you are confused at my writing style, where it says 'From Motoko's Eyes', it's first person as she talks about what happened, as a narrator in a way.

Deleted scenes and alternate endings are in my head, however, I'm going to dedicate more time to my other projects, so don't expect them any time soon.

Once again, hope you enjoyed the story, I certainly did. Till the next time!

- Jason