Life and Soul

By Cypher

Chapter One

The snow covering the hill was calm, peaceful. It was a place where the ground was seldom revealed, where it was never warm. The white blanket gave a sense of serenity and tranquility that concealed the dark nature of the area. Hundreds of people passed the hill every day as they rode the train, feeling a calming sense wash over them as they gazed on the scene. The hill had remained unchanged for centuries.

Falling down through the layers, though, beneath the snow, beneath the ground, miles upon miles down below, existed an ice cave. It was small, barely larger than a walk-in closet, and was completely coated with ice that gave off the glow akin to that found inside of a glacier. Three of the four walls were smooth and illuminated, the ice crystals thick to prevent even the tiniest organism from penetrating the chamber.

The final wall, however, contained a figure embedded deep within the ice. Its armor, jagged and sharp, blended into the surrounding environment, almost as if it was a part of him. One had to look carefully to see the outline of what could only be described as an armor, and in fact it would probably be unnoticeable save for one fact: a human face.

The face was pale, standing out even among the azure glow around him. While slightly distorted, the face was most definitely that of a young man in his early twenties. His mouth was set in a thin line, and his eyes were closed. He looked as if he was sleeping. The ice had preserved him perfectly, or perhaps it was more than that.

In fact, if one stepped back and took the room in as a whole, one would find a form floating in the middle of the room, staring at the figure in the wall and chanting a haunting hymn. Its robes, hanging raggedly from its body, were translucent. The pale hands were waving quietly, forming kanji in the air that only it could see. Its eyes were glowing a dim red, unblinking and unmoving. A hazy purple sphere surrounded the Shinto priest-like figure, waves of color bleeding off into the ice before him. The malignant aura radiating from the spirit contradicted the peaceful guise it had adopted.

Abruptly, it let out an inhuman shriek and burst into black flames. Simultaneously, a long, jagged crack broke the surface of the wall containing the figure. Inside, the man's eyes snapped open, cold ice blue orbs staring beyond the crystal, to something only he could see. Then the ice surrounding him, the entire cave, shuddered and shattered, leaving only the man behind. His armor radiated with faint pink energy, and he let out a throaty roar.

~*()*~

Cye Koji let out a yell and thrashed his arms about, his eyes hysterical.

"Cye! CYE!" Mia Koji, the man's wife, sat up and grabbed his arms, pinning them down. A cyan symbol was glowing brightly on his forehead, practically blinding her, but she kept her grip solid, eventually climbing on top of her husband to keep him from hurting her, or himself. "Cye, wake up! It's a dream! A dream!"

Cye finally let out a gasp, and his eyes lost their craziness, darting around his room until he saw Mia sitting on top of him. "W-what?"

"Are you okay?" She slid back to her side of the bed and sat up, pushing her disheveled red hair over her shoulder. He could feel a tear in her nightgown, but she wasn't worried about that right now. "What happened? Your…" She reached out and touched his forehead, tracing where the kanji had been burning only a moment before. "It was glowing."

"D-dream." He shuddered and sat up, huddling against her as if he was cold.

"That was no ordinary dream. You haven't had a dream like that since…" Mia went quiet again. The last time he had woken up so disturbed was right before the appearance of Suzunagi. "What did you see?"

"A…an ice cave. A Nether spirit. And a…a…" He wasn't sure who the man was, but knew he was going to find out soon. His prophetic dreams, while few and far between, were always correct. "A warrior of ice. No…a Warlord of ice." He rubbed his arms, trying to banish the chill that pervaded him despite the heater being on. "The Nether Spirit released him."

Mia rested her head on Cye's shoulder, placing a brief kiss on his temple. "It's okay, now. It's over. We just have to stop this spirit from releasing him."

Cye shook his head. "No, no. This…I think it's happening now." He closed his eyes. "This…this is something big, Mia. It was so intense, so real. I…we're going to need the others."

"Are you sure?"

"I am."

Mia sighed and stroked his shoulder-length hair. "Alright, darling. Tomorrow we'll contact the guys, bring them back to the house. Right now, you should try and get some more sleep."

"No…no, I can't." He pulled away from her embrace and sat on the edge of the bed. "It was…too intense. I can't go back there, Mia. It's too dangerous, too…if I get another one…"

Mia sat up on her knees and moved behind him, rubbing his shoulders. "Alright. Why don't you go downstairs and make some tea. It's only another hour or so until the sun rises. Sage and Ryo should be up, so we can call them shortly after that."

Cye reached up to his shoulder and squeezed her hand. "Thank you. Some people wouldn't…wouldn't understand."

"After all we've been through? Cye, if you told me Godzilla was attacking Tokyo, I'd believe you."

A small smile crossed across his face, and he tilted his head back to give her a chaste kiss. "I love you."

"I love you too. Now go on, I'll be down in a minute."

Cye nodded and grabbed his robe on the way to the door.

Mia sat back and looked out the window. It had only been a few months since the Ronins had gained new armors, and while they promised to practice, they left Toyama, to follow their own lives. They're not going to want to leave. She climbed off the bed and snagged her own robe, hanging on the back of her vanity chair. This is going to be hard on all of them. She stepped out of her bedroom and walked towards the stairs. Until we can contact them, we'll go to the library, see if we can find this…ice warlord.

~*()*~

Sage Date, warrior of light, was already awake when Cye called. He, like some of the others, found themselves developing extra-sensory capabilities. Cye, being the oldest, had developed his first, when his ability of foresight tore him from his sleep one night while hanging in the Dynasty dungeon during the second half of the war.

Sage had discovered that his healing capabilities, initially enhanced by his first Halo armor, had remained as potent when the power had been destroyed in Africa. With the advent of his second armor, his healing developed another quality: empathy. It was especially strong with his fellow armor bearers, and early that morning something had registered on that power, something so strong and terrifying that it had jolted him out of a deep slumber.

He had immediately meditated on it, trying to hunt down what had caused such an unusual reaction. All he could figure out, though, was that it had to do with his bond with one of his friends. Without donning the armor, he couldn't pinpoint which of the four it was, though. When he had returned to Sendai to begin the process of taking over the family dojo, he made a promise not to use his armor unless the world was threatened by the Dynasty once more. It wasn't just a promise to himself, but to his grandfather and family. Unlike the other Ronins, his family knew of his role in the war, and the risks he had taken to save them from the darkness.

As he hung up the phone, though, he knew that he'd have to leave once more. It would take about a day to travel from his home to Toyama, but once there he could use his armor to run the way to Mia's house. His parents wouldn't be happy, but they wouldn't stop him, at least. Standing, he left the dojo office, nodding to Satsuki as she swept the dojo floor. She wasn't going to be an instructor, but like all Date children, her responsibilities included taking care of the family business.

He went past the small Zen garden his grandfather spent most of his time in, reaching out to try and sense him. His grandfather had been the one training him in his empathic capabilities. It was logical, as he was the one who had the healing gift before Sage. He had managed to find a way to sense most of his family, and even some of his students when they were training, but his grandfather was still blank to him. He took it as a challenge, that when he finally could sense the eldest Date, his training would be near its completion.

At the very end of the hall, where he was headed, was a small room. It was a small shrine of the Dates. One wall was dedicated to the Dates that had come before them, including the legendary General Date of ancient times, and the lesser known Seiji Date, the one who trained with the first Halo armor. Other parts of the room were occupied with crystals, wards to keep out evil spirits. Artifacts, from swords to armors, were displayed proudly, and one wall there was even a framed parchment depicting the Halo armor kneeling before a monk: the Ancient.

And then, in one corner of the room, the walls were devoid of everything, the space around it empty save for one box, which had a golden lightning bolt in a circle. There were no other identifying marks, it simply stood there, imposing. Sage spent time with it every day. He never removed its contents, simply communed with them to keep in touch with its powers. Now, however, that would change. It was time to don the armor once more.

"I see you are returning to Toyama."

Sage ducked his head. His grandfather had snuck up on him once more. "Yes."

"Talpa is destroyed."

"It is another evil, one that Cye believes will be just as dangerous."

His grandfather walked over to stand next to him, his eyes also locked on the box. He was a short man, even in the Date family. His age left him bald, but his eyes still held a spark that belied their age. He was simply dressed in priest's robes. Sage couldn't recall a time he'd worn any type of 'modern' clothes. "He is what awakened you earlier?"

"Yes, Grandfather. His vision was so powerful it disturbed me."

His grandfather was silent for a minute, and Sage wondered if he would ask him not to go.

"I have sensed it, as well. Something…dark has returned. You said there are Guardians of the Netherworld?"

"Yes, the Warlords. They have the an Ancient among them, Kayura. They'll be able to help us repel this new foe."

"I would not be so quick to place my trust in them, or in their power." He closed his eyes. "They contain the power of the old evil."

Sage finally faced the old man. "You've seen something." His grandfather had no foresight abilities, per se, but he had some technique of learning of future events. He had seen the advent of Talpa's rise, and the call of Sage, when the blond had only been a child. "What. Anything you know can help."

"This…evil is unlike the old darkness. Yes, it has his power, but the Guardians will not be able to stand against it." His grandfather turned and faced the picture of Halo. "They will no longer be your allies. They will fall, and with it, the protection of the Netherworld."

"Will the armies be raised again? Will he attack Toyama?"

"That…I cannot see."

Sage ran a hand through his hair, brushing it out of his eye a moment. "Your visions don't see everything. They didn't see Talpa rising again, or the events of New York. They also didn't reveal that Talpa would fall, or that we'd win the battle of Infernos. Perhaps you are missing something this time, as well.

His grandfather turned and finally looked Sage in the eyes. "You are right, of course. I merely glimpsed the fall of the Guardians. But I saw something else…" He got a far away look, and Sage could swear he saw worry in the old man's eyes. "When you return, Sage, this will not be the same family you left."

Sage sighed and opened the box, running his fingers over the leather sheathed no-datchi. "I understand. Mother and father will be resentful, but they know I have a duty to fulfill." He waited for his grandfather to say more, but the old man remained silent, respectfully turning around. He nodded and reached into the box, carefully lifting the Halo helmet. Unlike his last armor, this one had no kanji orb. He merely had to accept the power into him.

Lifting the helmet into the air with one hand, he stood tall and raised his chin. The armor's power was throbbing, needing to be awakened. It, too, sensed the new darkness, and it glowed a soft green. In response, Sage's kanji of wisdom lit up on his forehead. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. "Armor of Halo." The helmet flashed, turning into a handful of cherry blossoms, and left Sage's hand. The blossoms swirled around Sage's body, the new armor outlining him faintly for a minute. A minute later the box no longer held anything in it, its top replaced. Sage looked no different, but he could feel the armor's power in him, gathering its strength and adjusting to his body once more.

"Good luck, Sage. I fear this enemy will be far harder than any you've faced thus far."

Sage bowed his head to his grandfather, before he walked out of the shrine, through the house, and onto the streets. The train station was only a few blocks away, and it wouldn't take long for him to walk. He had only taken a few steps when his cell phone let out a shrill sound, and he pulled it out of his pocket reflexively. I'll have to get rid of this before I reach Mia's. "Date Sage."

"Sage! I can't sense her, I can't sense her at all!"

Sage held the phone away from his ear a minute, wincing at Ryo's loud tone. "Calm down, Ryo. Explain from the beginning."

~*()*~

"This is where you grew up, Ryo?"

Ryo nodded at Yulie, ruffling the teen's hair as they walked through the forest. "Yep. Dad had a cabin out here, and when the Ancient came with White Blaze, he thought it was best I live with them out here, away from civilization."

"I thought your dad was dead." Yulie winced as he realized how tactless his comment had been. "Sorry."

"No, it's alright. I came to terms with it a while ago." Ryo put his hands behind his head. "He was doing a special for National Geographic, and there was an accident with some lions. I'm not exactly sure how he did it, but the Ancient made sure no one came looking for me, or came to claim the cabin."

"What about your mom?"

"She died giving birth to me." Ryo looked into the dawning sky. Yulie had been given a few days off from school, and had asked if he could hang out with Ryo. One thing led to another and before he knew it, Ryo was talked into taking Yulie to see his home. Of course, I haven't been there in a while. Probably needs to be cleaned out of dust, bugs, and all that crap.

And Yulie was more than eager to help if it meant he could hang out with his Ronin friend. Lately, due to school, kendo, and other duties, the teen hadn't been able to see his friends from the Dynasty War very often. Sage was the only one who kept regular contact, and that was only because he taught Yulie kendo for a year or so.

"Hey, when are you gonna put it on?"

"My armor?" Ryo shook his head. "I really shouldn't."

"We're in the middle of a forest. Who's gonna see?"

"Maybe later."

"Aww." Yulie kicked the ground. Sometimes it was hard to believe the kid was nearly fourteen. Every now and then he acted exactly like he had during the wars. "Well, at least we'll get to see White Blaze, right?"

Ryo did nod at that. After the incident with Suzunagi, White Blaze had vanished for a while, but his connection with the tiger, ever strong, had let him know he was safe back 'home.' Since the only two homes the tiger knew was the Koji mansion and the Sanada cabin, and Cye hadn't called yelling at him about his 'bloody tiger swimming in the lake and scaring the fish,' he was at the cabin. "I'm sure he'll be glad to see you."

"You too. When was the last time you saw him?"

Ryo wasn't sure. He had seen the vision of White Blaze in the graveyard when freeing Suzunagi from her hatred, but he hadn't actually seen the tiger since the whole mess in Africa. He had trained with the Warlords a bit, keeping constant contact with Kayura in case his efforts were needed to quell any evil rebellions, but he hadn't spent much time at any one place for a long time. Since gaining the new armor, he had been training, but he kept on the move, even stopping by Mount Fuji for a week.

"Hey, is that it?"

Ryo looked to where Yulie was pointing, and grinned as he spotted the small cottage-like building. It was raised up by a few feet, with stairs raising against the side of the wall. There were no windows on this side of the cabin, but the door looked like it was still in top shape, with a few scratch marks. Those were due to White Blaze, the few times the cat had scratched to come in. After the third time, Ryo had just let him come in. He was like family, after all. Speaking of Blaze… His eyes scanned the clearing, and he could feel a stare on him. Where are you… There was a blur in his peripheral vision, and he jumped back as Yulie let out a surprised laugh.

"White Blaze! Get off!"

Ryo crossed his arms as the white tiger licked the teen's face, pinning the boy's body with his weight. "What, you greet Yulie enthusiastically, and don't even give me a second glance?" White Blaze let out a challenging growl. "You talking back to me?" Ryo prepared himself. This was about to degenerate into a tiger versus Ronin match. "Come on, boy. Bring it on."

White Blaze swished his tail a minute, as if thinking it over, then leapt off Yulie, bounded off a tree, and collided with Ryo's chest. Ryo let out his own laugh as they tumbled a bit, the feline pawing at him while he landed soft blows with his fists. Neither were doing real damage, just having fun.

"That's it, Ryo! Show him who's boss!"

White Blaze struck Yulie with a glare from his chestnut eyes, giving Ryo an opening to snag the animal in a headlock. "Gotcha!" He hugged the tiger briefly before the mock battle continued, Yulie cheering every now and then. Then White Blaze let loose with a particularly strong paw swing, sending Ryo a few feet away.

"Ryo! You okay?"

Ryo pushed himself up onto his knees, opening his mouth to respond. Instead, a gasp escaped his lips, and he fell forward, his hands landing on the ground as he panted, staring at the forest floor. He wasn't in pain from White Blaze's blow, but from something else. His kanji lit up briefly, and Yulie's cries faded into the distance. His mind turned inward, searching for the soft link he had grown accustomed to having since the Dynasty wars.

Instead, all he found was silence. "Kayura!" There was nothing, not even a whisper of a response. Something had happened, something bad. The last time he had felt a void like this was when the Ancient had left him to form a bridge to Talpa's castle. No, no she can't be dead! The other three Warlords would've protected her, allowed her to escape to the mortal realm for help. Something was drastically wrong. Without consciously realizing it, he summoned his sub-armor, the black metal mesh replacing his outfit in the blink of an eye.

He could feel his kanji burning, actually burning, as he tried to enter the other world. Kayura had shown him how, though he wasn't sure if he could without her link to help guide him. Then he felt his body dissipate, begin to leave the physical plane so that it could transport to the Nether Realm. Just as he was about to vanish, though, a flash of pain coursed through him, and he screamed. Something from the other side had blocked him, and forced him back into the Earth realm. He collapsed on the ground, panting.

Slowly, he became aware of Yulie calling his name, and White Blaze's presence beside him, nudging him with his nose. "Sage…call Sage," was all he managed to get out as he panted, trying to get himself under control again. Sage was the only one who would know what was going on, the only other one who could extend himself into the Nether World through meditation. He had to know what was going on.

A phone was pressed into his hand, and he realized Yulie had already dialed for him. He barely heard Sage announce himself before he started talking. "Sage! I can't sense her, I can't sense her at all!" He heard Sage tell him to calm down, and to start from the beginning. He couldn't calm himself completely, though, not until he knew what was going on in the Nether World. When Sage told him of Cye's vision, of the new evil, he paled. Kayura… That could explain it. With the Ancient's powers, she couldn't be converted, but she could be killed.

"Ryo, listen to me. I need you to calm yourself enough to focus."

Ryo took a few more gulps of air, willing himself to do as Sage ordered. Sage was always the calm, collected one. He had to listen to Sage, to draw strength from the control in his voice. "Okay, okay, I'm calm."

"Find some way, other than your armor, to get to the Koji house. I'll call Cye and tell him you're on your way. He's taking care of contacting Kento and Rowen. We should all be together in a day or so, and then we can figure out what to do." Ryo heard Sage mutter something, and someone saying they were sorry. "I'll meditate on the train ride over. I'll see if I can get any information, but I can't guarantee I'll be able to find anything."

"As long as you try. I'll see you in a day, Sage."

"Be careful, Ryo. If the Dynasty does have a new master, he may attack while we're separated."

"I understand. Bye, Sage." Ryo hung up and sat back, his head falling back as he groaned. He knew it, he just knew the peace wouldn't last.

"Ryo? Do we have another war?"

Ryo opened his eyes to slits and eyed Yulie. "Probably, but you're not-"

"Oh yes I am." Yulie crossed his arms and tried to give Ryo a no-nonsense look. "I can fight a lot better than I did back then, and besides, if you guys go off to do battle, then someone has to stick around to protect Mia."

"Mia can fight. And Anubis gave her those wards."

"The wards may not work any more, and one person against a swarm of Dynasty soldiers isn't going to do much. With two there's more of a chance. Besides, someone needs to keep an eye on you, in case you get another shock to your system."

"Another…" He glanced down to his sub-armor. Yulie was right. It had formed out of instinct, and if that happened in public, his cover would be blown. The only reason he and the other Ronins were currently left alone was due to the fact that the government believed their armors had been destroyed. "Fine, but you call your parents and tell them, and once we get to Mia's, if everyone agrees you should go-"

"Then I'll go. Until then," Yulie grabbed Ryo's arm and helped pull him to his feet, "we need to get to the city and figure out how to get to Mia's."

"I was going to ride White Blaze…"

"You mean the tiger that just took off like a bat out of hell in the direction of Toyama?"

Ryo blinked and looked around, before sighing and nodding. "Figures he'd leave when I need him. Let's head back to the car. The traffic will be hell, but if we drive all day and most of the night, we should make it."

"Right."

They didn't say much as they walked back to the car, the cabin, and vacation, completely forgotten. As they approached the edge of the forest, Ryo nudged his powers, and reluctantly, his sub-armor vanished. Guess there's no more time for practices. As he unlocked the door to the jeep, he closed his eyes and leaned against the edge of the door.

"Ryo?" Yulie glanced around, making sure no one was around in case he armored up again.

There was a new link in his mind. No, not new. It was simply a link he hadn't heard in a long time, not since he'd given up his powers, both Ancient and armor, to Kayura. Kayura had said that since he was alive, the link would still exist, but it would remain dormant as long as she was the Ancient.

"Ryo, what's wrong."

He could feel the pain through the link, the cries for help, salvation. We're coming. The link was too weak to communicate through, but it was strong enough to detect where it was coming from. He climbed into the car, Yulie scrambling to get in as Ryo gunned the engine. "Someone needs our help. Hang on." He shifted the vehicle into gear and punched the gas. He didn't have much time, not if he was going to save his old friend, the one who had helped so much through the second Dynasty war: Anubis.

~*()*~

"Snake Fang Strike!"

The priest in warrior's clothing hissed as one of the many swords grazed his upper arm. The last thing he needed was poison in his system, especially with his other injuries. Bravo, Anubis. You're as much of a whiner as Kayura used to be. He winced as the name brought forth the memory of what had transpired only a short couple hours ago.

It had been a typical morning for him, getting up early, joining Cale in an early morning work out, and then breaking for breakfast. Only they never got past the first set of exercises. Just as he was about to land a blow on Cale, Kayura let out a wail of pain. Cale vanished immediately, and Anubis knew when he reappeared, he would be in full armor, with the other Warlords. He, not having any armor, grabbed a sword and ran for the room the noise had originated from.

The hallway that led to the room was filled with three Warlords, all battling a warrior encased in what looked like an armor of ice. It could only be ice, considering the atmosphere was a lot colder than it normally was. Knowing he wouldn't stand a shot against an armored foe, he slipped quietly into Kayura's meditation room, figuring he could give her first aid, if necessary. It was a skill Mia had taught him in case anything happened to her or Yulie during the second war.

What he saw, though, petrified him. Kayura was in the room, her arms crossed in a defensive pose with the Staff jutting outward just slightly. Anubis recognized the position, a summoning of a mystic shield from the Staff. Only it hadn't seemed to work, as she was encased, head to toe, in a large ice crystal. Her face was frozen in a look of horror, her eyes wide and her mouth open. He couldn't even sense the energies of the Staff. He struck the block with his sword, only to have the weapon shatter against it. "How…"

It was then he realized she wasn't wearing the armor of Cruelty. He quickly looked around, trying to find the kanji orb, but it wasn't there. Her room. backed up to the door, then peeked outside. The hallway, now covered in ice, was quiet. He didn't see any Warlord popsicles, so he assumed the fighting had moved on. He stepped out, his guard up.

"Hello, Anubis."

Anubis whirled around, his hands moving into a defensive pose. The man before him had cold eyes, and was giving him a disgusted look. The armor he wore looked to be made of ice, but it was tinted purple. Nether spirit energies. After Badamon had been destroyed, Kayura had been systematically wiping out any other Nether spirits. Despite her efforts over the years, though, there were still a handful that had vanished without a trace. They must have infused with this warrior. "Who are you."

"So you don't remember me. It doesn't matter." The pale blue eyes narrowed, and a number of sharp ice projectiles formed in the air around him. "I won't risk having a traitor in my ranks." The ice flew straight at him, most tearing at his clothes, and a number of others actually slicing him as they went by. He tried to dodge as many as he could, but it seemed that no matter where he went there were more. One finally caught him in the leg and he fell, crashing into the icy floor. He saw puffs of his breath as he willed the pain he was feeling to the back of his mind.

As his eyes traveled past the red patches he was leaving on the ice, he caught sight of another fallen form, behind the ice warrior. The brown armor was huddled over, and pink energies were slithering up from the ice over the metal form. Cale! He pushed himself up, expecting the enemy to be upon him. Instead, he saw the warrior looking over his shoulder, as if searching for something. Not wanting to let the opportunity escape him, he got to his feet and started running. He heard more ice shards coming at him, and was able to duck around a corner, the ice shattering as it flew into the wall.

"Venom, destroy the traitor! Do not let him escape!"

Anubis shuddered, partially from the cold, but also from the memories the order invoked. The bridge. There was one doorway within the castle that led to the human world. It had no set destination, rather, the person going through had to will themselves to their destination. A Ronin in the human world. I have to warn them. At the back of his mind was a nagging voice that said he knew who this enemy was, but he couldn't focus on it now. Just as he reached the next hallway, Sehkmet had let loose his attack.

He ground his teeth together, trying to will the poison not to affect him. The red glow in Sehkmet's eyes told him there was no way to reach his friend, not at the moment. How did he convert them so quickly?! This warrior was strong, powerful.

"Give up, traitor. You can't escape me!"

Had Anubis been in better condition, he would've taken on the Warlord. Even now he was one of the best warriors, and had beaten Sehkmet in sub-armor. His vision began to get fuzzy at the edges, and his pace slowed. No…not yet, I can't stop yet. Rounding one more corner, he leaned against the wall, panting. Where…where is that stupid bridge?! He stumbled along the wall, hearing a crash behind him. Guess he slipped on the ice. He felt energy lance his hand as he touched the next doorway, and paused. Here… He focused his thoughts, trying to focus his thoughts. Near a Ronin. Put me near a Ronin that could help. Hoping that was enough, he stepped through the doorway.

~*()*~

Yulie wasn't sure where Ryo was driving, but the fact that he was doing it like the beasts of Hades were on their tail, he didn't question it. His kanji hadn't relit, which was a good sign, but he could see a faint glow around the older man's clothes. His armor wants to don, and he's holding it at bay. Whoever this person was that needed help, it was obviously urgent if it caused the armor to react in such a way.

He had to grab the safety strap as Ryo took the next turn on two wheels, nearly tipping the vehicle over. "I suppose asking you to slow down wouldn't do much?" Ryo didn't answer him, but the glow became solid, and the sub-armor formed around his friend again. Okay. That isn't a good sign. Yulie glanced out the window, relieved to see they were approaching an industrial district. On a Sunday, this early in the morning, there wouldn't be anybody who could see him, though the way Ryo was speeding, they might have some police on them soon enough.

Then, with a jerk, Ryo stopped the car and stared out the windshield. "Stay here." He practically tore the door off and got out of the car. Yulie looked out the windshield and spotted the form lying a few feet away in the ground. He wondered who it was, until he realized the hair wasn't covered in blood, but was naturally red. It was also long, and Yulie only knew one person with red hair who let it hang down. Ignoring Ryo's earlier order, he got out of the car and reached under his seat, pulling the first aid kit out, and headed for Anubis.

Ryo was currently kneeling by the fallen man, but his fingers were simply reaching blindly for a pulse. His eyes were on the surrounding area, trying to see if there were any immediate threats. The sight of the warrior-turned-Ancient lying there like a blood soaked rag caused him to stumble in his steps. God… He felt bile rise in his throat, and turned his head a minute to gather himself. Calm down. Just…detach yourself, like Sage taught you.

Thanks to a bit of stage fright, Sage had had to teach Yulie to separate his mind from his emotions before a match. Never thought I'd be using it like this. He didn't want to. He wanted to hide behind Ryo, and be told it would be fine. He knew he couldn't, though. Ryo was groping blindly, and if there was a chance of Anubis surviving, someone had to tend to his wounds. Taking a deep breath and locking his feelings into a tight box in his mind, Yulie knelt on the other side of Anubis and took the man's wrist, finding the pulse by himself. It was faint, but it was there. "Anubis?" The fact that his voice was shaky and a pitch too high didn't escape his notice.

Ryo finally caught that he was there, and gave Yulie a stern look. "I told you to-"

"You keep guard, I'll take care of him. Besides, if some Dynasty goons do come, I'll be a sitting duck in that car. At least this way I can protect Anubis while you fight." He tentatively turned Anubis onto his back and shied away as he took in all the wounds. One, on the arm, was a sickly green color. Sehkmet's poison. He searched through the kit and found an anti-venom serum. It wouldn't be strong enough to cure him, but it would stave off immediate death. Pulling the cap off the needle, he hesitated, then jabbed it into the infected wound, injecting the liquid.

"Alright, but next time-"

"Ryo, can you lecture later?" He was trying to remember everything Mia and Sage had taught him, but they had never expected something like this. A few cuts, a broken bone, but not hundreds of lacerations that were no infected with poison. There's no way I have enough gauze to cover every one. He recalled what Mia had shown him, about checking necks, and slipped his hands around Anubis'. Feels intact. He realized Ryo had stopped talking, and looked up briefly to see that Ryo was checking the perimeter. Good.

Taking a deep breath, he slowly peeled the tattered shirt back. Anubis was covered with cuts, some only scratches, but a majority were deep enough that he must've lost a lot of blood just trying to get here. He took the surgical scissors and cut off the shirt. They'd clean him up later. For now, Yulie unwound a bandage and started covering the deepest of the cuts. Ten minutes later, while the bandages were becoming blood soaked, Yulie called Ryo over.

"I think that's all I can do. Short of bringing him to the hospital."

Ryo carefully lifted the unconscious man and brought him to the jeep, gently laying him in the back seat. "Think he'd make it to Mia's?"

Yulie pulled a wet wipe from the kit and began scrubbing at his hands. His clothes were ruined. Mom's going to be furious. "No, I don't think so. I mean, we could try, but it's a long way."

Ryo bit his lip, pulling out an emergency blanket and tucking it around the ex-Warlord. "Kyoto's about a three hour drive."

Yulie's brow furrowed as he tried to follow Ryo's train of thought. "Kento? What can he do?"

"Not Kento, Rowen."

"What he needs is Sage."

"Rowen can teleport." Ryo shut the back door and climbed into the vehicle, taking a moment to scan the construction site once more. "Rowen can get to Sage, and have him heal Anubis."

Yulie climbed into the passenger seat once more, glancing over his shoulder to the back seat. "Oh. I guess we should get going."

"Right." Ryo started the car and made a tight U-turn, heading for the nearest freeway. "You know, Yulie..."

Yulie sighed and gave up on his hands. There was just too much blood for one wet wipe to deal with. "Yeah?"

"You disobeyed me."

Yulie winced. "Yeah, I'm…sorry."

"Well, you handled yourself pretty well, and got right down to helping Anubis…" Ryo pulled up to a stoplight, his sub-armor fading as they approached civilization. He reached over and patted Yulie on the shoulder. "Just…I'm proud of what you did. You've matured well."

Yulie offered Ryo a shy smile. "Being part of a world-saving war does tend to do that to a kid."

Ryo smiled briefly, nodded, and drove up the nearest onramp. "Just don't do it during this war, okay? If anything happened to you…"

"I know, Ryo. I won't."

"Good." Ryo put on his blinker and merged into the carpool lane. "I figure we'll stop at Kento's place, and you and he can watch over Anubis while I go get Rowen. From there we'll grab Sage, and head to Mia's."

"Right. The whole gang, together again."

"I just wish it was under better circumstances."

Yulie nodded and settled into watching the cars go by. Well, here we come, Kyoto.

~*()*~

Kento Rei Faun was not a typical eighteen year old. While in America, before the whole incident in New York, he had won the lottery. It wasn't a huge jackpot, but it was large enough that he was pretty well off. He hadn't spent it on himself, oh no. Part of it went to the family of the victims of the Halo armor, anonymously, of course. Some of it he put into trust accounts for his younger brothers and sisters, so they'd have money to attend college.

The rest of it, though, went to buying a few houses so that his family, used to living in a rather small place, could finally live in a manner he had experienced while rooming with Mia. In total, the Rei Faun family, all three generations, owned four houses. Add to that the restaurant, day care, and a few other businesses, and the enter block was soon dubbed the Faun block. There was almost no place they didn't own on that one street.

Kento wasn't left out of this, either. He had started a landscaping service. With his more controlled power of moving the Earth, as well as his newer ability to commune with vegetation, he was one of the more well known landscapers of the area. Rather than buy a house, he had made the second floor of his building an apartment. It wasn't anything fancy, but he liked to call it home.

When Cye's call came through, Kento immediately knew there was something wrong. The tone was too serious, and there was no joking banter. Normally when Cye called they exchanged a few kidding words before getting down to business. This time, Cye had simply told him that the Dynasty was back, in the version of a new Warlord. Everyone was meeting at the Koji household, and, knowing how important this was, Kento promised to be there as well.

Fifteen minutes later, Cye called again, saying that Rowen wasn't picking up his cell phone. Rowen's houseline was constantly taken by his computer's internet, so the cell phone was the only way to contact him. Kento said he'd check it out, especially since Rowen didn't have class today.

He had been surprised to find that Rowen had transferred to Kyoto University, but he supposed it was only logical. Tokyo University held too many bad memories of Suzunagi. Having grown up with Rowen as a friend, he thought it'd be pretty cool. And the nights they had been able to hang out, it was. Unfortunately, those nights they could hang out, between Rowen's school and Kento's work, were growing fewer and fewer.

Ah well. We'll hang out more after this fight. He hadn't actually donned his armor for a while, but he'd never put it away. He'd simply kept it dormant. Rowen did as well, though Kento had the suspicion that his friend had put it on a few times and taken a few flights. Maybe he's out flying, and that's why he's not answering. Shrugging, he turned his phone on again and dialed his cousin's business. He ran an accounting business at the end of the block, but sometimes helped Kento with certain jobs. While he was gone, he figured his cousin could handle the business.

Actually, all he'd have to do was finish up the jobs that he was currently working on. He'd close down after that. His family would watch the building for him, and they wouldn't ask where he'd been. They knew he was part of something big, but had never pestered him about it. He suspected his grandmother knew the truth, but then, his grandfather had been the one who told him of the armor legend.

After setting things up with his cousin, Kento got sucked into organizing his affairs, making sure he left clear instructions of what needed to be done, what clients had paid and which still owed him, and, though he hated to do it, made sure his Will was up to date. Should any other Ronin bring up Wills and dying, Kento would be the first to tell them to get off the topic and cheer them up. That didn't mean he was ignorant. He knew quite well the risks of a war, and he didn't want to leave his family with a mess.

By the time he stepped out the door to go look for Rowen, he saw a jeep pulling up in front of his business, a very familiar red jeep. "Ryo?" Mia had sold the old thing to him shortly before she and Cye tied the knot. He grinned as Yulie hopped out of the passenger side. "Hey, squirt! Whatcha…" He quieted down as Yulie ignored him and opened the door to the back seat.

Ryo stepped around the jeep and nodded to Kento. "Mind if we use your pad? We found him like this, and at this point the needs Sage. Since Rowen can teleport…"

Kento finally caught a glimpse of the injured man, and quickly went over to help Yulie pull him out. "Anubis? Ryo, what's going on?"

"Something big in the Dynasty. Didn't Cye-"

"Cye called, but he didn't say that the Nether world had already been taken over." Kento hefted Anubis into his arms and indicated Yulie should open the door to the building.

"Well, something's gone down. I've lost my connection with Kayura, and Anubis…" Ryo shook his head. "This is quickly becoming a very bad situation." Ryo followed Kento inside.

"No kidding. Yulie, go across the street and three buildings down left. You'll come across a small acupuncture business. Tell my aunt to close up and get over here." Kento started climbing the stairs, hearing Yulie scamper out.

"Acupuncture?"

"She's also a registered nurse. Should help buy Anubis some time." Kento laid Anubis on the bed, carefully avoiding the now pussy wound on his arm. He recognized Sehkmet's work, and didn't want to risk getting the toxin in his system. "I'll go find Rowen-"

"I was going to-"

"I know his usual haunts, Ryo. I'll find him far faster than you. You stay here, warn my aunt of the poison and make sure Anubis is okay. I'll be back as soon as I can."

"Can't you call him?"

"He's got his cell phone off, for some reason." Kento headed for the stairs. "Help yourself to whatever. Mi casa es tu casa."

"Huh?"

"An American saying. I'll explain later." He hurried down the stairs and left the building, noting that Yulie was just now crossing the street with his aunt. He climbed into his own car and pulled out, heading for the college campus. To make sure he was there, Kento focused his armor energies, searching out its companions. He immediately felt Ryo nearby. Rowen's energy was weaker, but it was at the campus. Huh, wonder what's going on.

~*()*~

Normally, when Rowen had a day with no classes, he slept in until noon, and then relaxed the rest of the day, sometimes getting ahead on his homework or playing a video game. He was planning on doing that today, as it had been a particularly grueling week with four midterms, two quizzes, and three written reports. Normally his weeks weren't that bad, but they were nearing the end of the year, which meant the teachers were rushing to get everything finished.

But today, at a time that he considered ungodly, a professor had called and asked him to come in. Some new students with special status were going to be touring the campus, and one of the guides had fallen sick. Since Rowen had been a special status student, entering college a full year before his peers, the professor figured he'd be the perfect fill-in.

And of course, Rowen couldn't say no. So, taking a quick shower and tossing on whatever clean clothes he had, after making a mental note of doing laundry later, he hurried out of his apartment and jogged to campus. He only lived a block away, but the orientation had already begun. After that was peer advising, which Rowen would help in, to give suggestions of what classes they should take to help make the transition easier. Then there was a tour of campus, but Rowen wasn't sure if he'd be doing that.

Just before the students came in to begin the advising, his cell phone went off, which earned him a stern glare from the professor on call. He shrugged helplessly before he pulled the phone out and shut it off. If it was really important they'd try calling him later. Putting the device away, he sat back and waited for the first student.

Forty minutes and seven students later, Rowen arched his back and stretched. They were almost done with the advising, he personally having just two students left, one of which was coming over right now. He closed his eyes as he moved his neck, then relaxed against the chair again. "Sorry about that. Stiff chair."

"I understand." The student ran a hand through his hair, and Rowen blinked as he caught sight of the ultramarine hair that seemed very familiar to him. In fact, if you took away the headband he still wore and the dangling forelock, Rowen could've sworn his was looking in a mirror. "So, how do we start?"

Rowen shook himself out of his surprise, still trying to remember where he had seen that face before. The blue eyes struck him, though blue eyes weren't that uncommon. He looks like me--no way. He couldn't…he's still in high school. "Well, let's see, where's your transcript…Richard Hashiba?" Rowen's head snapped back up and he took in the person before him, his mind finally making the connection.

"Yes." Richard shifted uncomfortably in his seat, his eyebrows raising. "Is there…something wrong?"

"Richard, it's me. Don't you recognize--no, no I suppose you wouldn't. It's been a while."

Richard frowned, biting his lip in concentration. "Actually…you do look…familiar."

"It's me, Rowen."

"Rowen…?"

"Rowen your big brother! Sheesh, don't tell me I'm that forgettable."
"Oh. OH! Rowen!" Richard's business face faded to be replaced by a smile. He stood up and leaned over. Rowen followed suit and the two embraced in a hug, though the professor coughed after a minute, and they sat back down. "Where've you been? Mom and I have been trying to reach you for a while."

"I had…things to take care of in Toyama. And then I got busy in Tokyo for a bit. It's been a while."

"Do you still have the…" Richard glanced over to the professor and lowered his voice. "The armor?"

"How do you-"

"Mom was at the United Nations when that whole eclipse thing was going on. I…we were worried."

"Even dad?" Richard scowled, and Rowen ducked his head. "Sorry. I forgot you and he…yeah. So, what're you doing at Kyoto university?"

"I tested up. I tried for Tokyo, but," he shrugged, "I guess I'm not as smart as you. Kyoto was my second choice, though, and I made it in. So I took it."

"How was America?"
"Well-"

The professor finally stepped over to their table. "Mr. Hashiba. You do have a job to do."

Rowen nodded. "Right, sorry sir. Um, why don't I register you last, and then, can I give him a personal tour?"

"You two are family?"

"Yeah. The name didn't give it away?"

The professor leveled Richard with a stern look, and the teen quickly looked away, hunching his shoulders a bit. "Why don't you go to the one of the other students. Mr. Hashiba will join you when he's finished here."

Richard nodded as Rowen handed him his transcript, and quickly moved to another advisor's table.

Sorry about that, Richard. "Sorry, sir."

"He was right, I should have noticed the name. I'm sorry."

"It's alright. It's probably best I don't sign him up, but the personal tour…?"

"That's fine. And to make him feel more comfortable, tell him it's an honor to have another Hashiba attending our fine institution."

Rowen nodded, fighting the urge to roll his eyes. Even though Richard didn't like their father, he had made a rather prominent name among the academic community, and colleges were fighting over the honor of having his sons attend. You'd think he'd invented cold fusion or something. Still, it was nice to be recognized for something other than being one of the people wearing an armor that caused an astronomical anomaly.

The last student was very cooperative, and Rowen finished up with her in a scant ten minutes. He saw Richard was still enrolling into his classes, so he took the opportunity to run to the restroom. When he moved to Kyoto, he knew there was a chance he'd run into his little brother, but he had believed it was a rather slim chance. He barely had time to hang out with Kento. Searching for his brother was out of the question. Hey, when'd he get back, anyway?

When their mother had remarried, it had been to an American, and Richard had participated in a foreign exchange student program. Last Rowen had heard, Richard was still there, doing well in high school. Of course, that was well over a year ago. He hadn't meant to lose contact, but between the first Dynasty war and the college entrance exams, he'd lost track of what his brother had been doing. Guess mom finally brought him back home. After the divorce, before she remarried, his mother had bought a place in Kyoto. It wasn't Osaka, but they had managed to get together quite often.

Drying his hands, he stepped into the hall and saw Richard leaning against the hall, one foot resting on the wall and a folder clasped in his hand. He was looking around, and Rowen had to smile at the confused look on his face. It brought back memories of when they had been younger, and Richard had followed Rowen everywhere, trying to take in everything his older brother was showing and explaining to him. That was a long time ago… He walked over and put his hand on Richard's shoulder. "Hey."

"Oh, there you are." Richard tossed his hair back and looked Rowen up and down, as if he was trying to memorize how he looked. "You got tall."

"So did you. You're about as big as me."

"As lanky, too. Must be in the genes." His free hand rubbed his arm. "So, what do you want to do?"

"Come on." Rowen put an arm around his brother and led him down the hall. "Let's catch up a bit, then I can give you the tour later."

"Alright, lead the way."

"I figured that's what I was doing."

"It's a figure of speech."

Rowen grinned and ruffled Richard's hair. "Yeah, I know. I spent some time in America."

"Really?" Richard gave him a questioning look, then his face fell. "Oh, the armor murders in New York."

Rowen winced and his arm dropped. "Yeah, that. It had us flying from coast to coast."

"Was it…did one of your friends go insane?"

"Not quite. I…it's complicated."

"So complicated I wouldn't get it?"

"It's just…not something we like to talk about." He took in the look Richard was giving to him, and relented. "Basically, a friend was tortured and they used his armor to try and gain power to take over the world."

"And you stopped him."

"Yes, thankfully."

"Ah." Richard looked up an squinted at the clouds as they stepped outside. "I figure you want to avoid talking about the whole Africa thing."

"Yeah. Hey, how'd you know it was Africa?"

"Mom. She investigated that thing to death. I think she was worried about you."

"Were you?"

"Of course! Though I was a little upset you hadn't told me about the armor."

Rowen sighed. "You have to understand, I wanted to tell you, but I couldn't. Just like none of the other guys could tell their families. There was a chance that if you knew, the Dynasty-"

"Dynasty?"

Rowen bit his lip. "The bad guys. We just didn't want to drag you into it." He walked a bit more quickly a claimed a shady spot under a cherry blossom tree.

Richard looked around, then shrugged and took a seat next to him, fingering the folder and staring at it as if it was the most fascinating thing on Earth. "I…understand. I don't like it, but I understand."

"Since we're on the topic of secrets, what about yours? You doing okay?"

"Uh huh. So, what have I missed since I went to America?"

Rowen crossed his arms, ignoring the diversion tactic. "Richard…"

The younger teen sighed. "I don't want to talk about it, bro."

"Well I do. It's important, and it really hurt you early on. I just want to make sure you've got it under control."

"I do. Martial arts helped me focus my mind and now I don't keel over, or get migraines, or any of the other side effects. I just…" Richard ran his fingers over the Kyoto University seal. "It's something I can pretty much ignore now."

"It's not necessarily a curse, Richard."

Richard narrowed his eyes. "Wanna bet."

"Yes, I do. I have a friend that has it, and he's embraced it as a gift. He's even learning to master it."

"Well la de da for him. I'm not him, and I don't want to embrace it more than I have to. Now can we change topics?"

Rowen let out a slow breath through his nose. He'd never heard his brother use such a sharp tone, and he'd never imagine it'd be used against him. Guess it's still a sore subject. Unlike Rowen, Richard had been born with some sort of empathic ability. At first it didn't really bother the kid, only sensing Rowen and no one else. But as he got older, his ability evolved and matured with him, and those were memories Rowen had tried to forget. Uncontrollable urges to vomit, blacking out in the middle of school. The worst was during the fights between his parents.

That was the only time he'd seen Richard actually stop living. He'd just turned white, collapsed, and he hadn't been breathing, or had a heartbeat. He had called his parents in such a terrified voice that they came immediately, and got Richard to the hospital. He had started breathing again on his own shortly after the fighting had stopped, but it had really scared Rowen, and during the divorce he hid Richard from their emotions as much as possible. Distracting him, taking him out to see a movie when things started heating up, anything he could think of.

And when the divorce was final, he had been worried that, without him, Richard wouldn't be okay. That turned out to be wrong. Richard had missed his brother, but had adapted to his absence, learning to shut out some of the more intense emotions, training his body to not react so violently to things he couldn't block, getting out of the way when emotions got too intense. Their mother never made the connection that every time she and her boyfriend (her current husband) got overly romantic, Richard always found some reason to leave the house.

Well, at least he's got it completely under control now. I wonder how long it took. "Alright. Sorry. I was just worried."

Richard's shoulders sagged. "Yeah, I know. I just…it's a sensitive topic."

"Well, what about telling me about the last couple years in America. I haven't gotten so much as a letter from you for a while."

Richard smiled softly. "Well, for my last birthday my step-dad took me to Disneyland. And I told you I skipped a grade, right?"

"I figured that out. You're here, after all."

"Right. Um, well, the cat died. Met with a bird he couldn't digest. And California has great weather. It'll be hard to adjust back to this."

"What about on the relationship map? Anything more than friends?"

"Not really. A couple dates, but nothing from either ocean."

Rowen shrugged. He knew Richard liked both men and women. He wrote it off as spending too much time in the United States, but he could've been born that way, or it had to do with his power. Either way, he was still his brother, and Rowen never shunned him for his choice. His father, on the other hand… Best not to go there. "Ditto. Guess we didn't inherit mom's attractive qualities."

"Oh, no, we did. One month I put bleach streaks in my hair, and I had to unplug the phone."

"Really?"

"Just wasn't worth the trouble, to be honest. I'd rather have a few people ask me out then every person who finds my hair attractive."

"Good point. What about sports?"

"Didn't win any awards while I was with track. You may run like the wind but I certainly don't."

Rowen chuckled. "With a little training I'm sure you could give me a run for the money." He heard Rich snort. "No pun intended."

"Yeah, sure. What about you? Can you tell me about this Dynasty war? Or are you bound by some deep dark eternal secret that forbids you from revealing what it's all about?"

Rowen shifted uncomfortably. The Dynasty war was not something he, or any of his friends, cared to rehash. To anyone, including each other. "It's something we don't talk about. It's best you don't know, really." Or learn about how close you came to becoming enslaved to a darkness beyond your nightmares.

"Well, what about the armor, can you talk about that? Was it really destroyed?"

"Yes, it was. Not a very pleasant experience."

Richard sat back at Rowen's slightly bitter tone. "Sorry. I guess I'm letting curiosity get the better of me. I…won't bring it up again."

"I won't bring up yours if you won't bring up mine."

"Deal."

They sat there quietly for a minute, neither Hashiba quite sure where to go from there. We don't see each other for years, and already we've had a fight. Guess some things between brothers never change.

"How many units are you taking?"

"Twenty. What'd you end up with?"

"I couldn't get more than fifteen. They won't let me."

"That's to help you adjust to the college way of life. What're you taking?"

"Well-"

"ROWEN!"

Rowen jumped to his feet, getting into a defensive position and scanning the area for any dangers. Sure, he recognized Kento's voice, but the tone was similar to the one he used when Dynasty soldiers were attacking. "Kento?"

Richard got up more slowly, getting into his own fighting stance.

Wonder how good he is. Kento finally made it over to the brothers, and he rested his arms on Rowen's shoulders for a minute while he caught his breath. "Kento, what's up?"

"Do you…know how…big this…campus is? I've been…everywhere…looking for you." Kento finally stood up and he cuffed Rowen on the head. "You turned off your cell phone you doof!"

"Oh, that's right." Rowen dug through his pockets, but Kento grabbed his arm before he could pull it out.

"Rowen, we've got to go. A certain friend dropped by, and he needs to see you." Kento finally looked over Rowen's shoulder, and did a small double take. "Whoa…"

"Kento, I'm a bit busy, as you can see."

"Sorry, man. I've got orders from a real FIRE-cracker."

Rowen frowned, then his eyes widened. Shit! Ryo's here! And if Kento spent all day looking for me… He had a bad feeling about this. "Um, Richard? I've got to leave. I'll catch you around, okay?"
Richard looked from his brother to Kento. "Is everything okay?"

"Nothing to worry about, kid."

Rowen felt Richard bristle behind him. Deal with that later. "Richard, really, if I could stay, I would. I'll call you, I promise."

Richard stood his ground a moment longer, then picked up his folder. "Alright. Let me give you my number-"

"I'll get it next time I see you on campus. I'm sorry, Richard, but I think this is a bit of an emergency."

"Oh…okay." Richard looked up into the tree, then shuffled his feet. "Bye."

"I'll get back to you, I promise." Rowen grabbed Kento's arm, and dragged the larger boy off with him. "This better be important, Kento."

"Richard?"

"I'm asking the questions. What the hell is going on that has you racing around under Ryo's orders?"

Kento pulled his arm free and kept up with Rowen's pace. "Cye tried to contact you earlier. He had a vision."

Rowen groaned. "Oh God."

"Demon, actually. Some new Warlord of ice."

"Is he sure it isn't just a nightmare?"

"Well, it could be, but considering Anubis just appeared bloodied and poisoned by Sehkmet, I'd doubt it."

Rowen stopped walking and stared at Kento. "Anubis?!"

"Yeah. He's not in good shape."

"Shit. Shit, shit, shit! This is not good!" Rowen looked back towards the tree. And this time Richard's nearby. And he won't stay out of it. There was no way his brother would just accept him disappearing for a time. He'd connect the dots and hunt him down. Okay, worry about it later. "What's Ryo need me for?"

"He wants you to go find Sage. He's the only person that can save Anubis."

"Right. Where is he?"

"Probably on his way to Toyama from Sendai."

"Gotcha." Rowen glanced around, then ducked between two buildings. He took a deep breath and willed his sub-armor to appear. A second later Kento stepped in behind him, resting a hand on the meshed sub-armor. "I'll get him here as fast as I can."

"We'll be at my place."

"Okay." Without opening his eyes, he called upon a small breeze. The wind surrounded him, and in a dim flash of navy light, he merged with it, becoming the wind. It always gave him a feeling of freedom, to become nothing but free floating molecules loosely held together by his mystic will. Sendai to Toyama. There's a train that travels that way. Sage was fairly adverse to driving, because it harmed the environment if he wasn't carpooling. That's my best bet. Lifting himself into the air, he saw Kento stand there for a few minutes, before heading for the parking lot.

It had taken him a while to get used to the idea of moving in an aerial three-dimensional way. The first Strata had helped him adjust to flying, but this new armor allowed him not only to fly, but to teleport through wind. It was far faster, and unlike anything he'd experienced before. In testing the ability, he found he could reach, what he estimated, was close to mach five.

Before going to Sendai, he moved across campus and found his brother walking towards the dorms. His head was bowed, but Rowen could tell he was thinking about something. I'm sorry. I'll come back as soon as I can, I promise. He blew around Richard, ruffling his hair, before flying into the air. He didn't even see how the teen had looked up with a puzzled expression, mouthing his name.

~*()*~

~*()*~

~*()*~

Author's Prattle: Well, after many years of promising, planning, and delays, I have finally gotten around to rewriting my first fic ever (well, first published one; I have no idea where my first fic disappeared to). This is the rewrite to "Life and Soul Reunited," which, while a good idea and highly original (especially at the time), I executed poorly. What can I say, it was my first real sojourn into writing fan fiction. It's still up, though I wouldn't recommend it. It's pretty crappy. Any who, this rewrite is a complete overhaul of the original. Yes, there are aspects and plot points that will be similar (Richard, a certain violent scene later on), but otherwise this is practically a new fic.

If you're lost on who some of these people are, or what's up with the armors, it's alright. I'm pulling from the Drama CDs and the OAVs as well as art books. So yes, this story does contain spoilers to some of the CDs, as well as all three OAVs (as if you couldn't tell considering what's happened in this chapter alone). And for those purists out there, who believe in full sub/raw or bust, I'm afraid Ronin Warriors is the only one I take exception to that rule. It holds a special place in my writing history, and really, it wouldn't work with the original kanjis (though I had a nice name all picked out for Richard…ah well).

Disclaimers. I don't own Ronin Warriors/Yoroiden Samurai Troopers. They belong to Sunrise, Nagoya TV, and Sony Music Entertainment. The art books and CDs belong to their respective artists. Richard I do own, as well as this plot, but that's it.

Final notes. I don't know when I'll get the next chapter out, or how long this fic will go on. Unlike some of my others (Cipher's Wake, God's in 7th Heaven, No Need for Daniel!), I haven't planned it out extensively or in detail. Also, my beta (Mardrena, check out her series) is harder to reach nowadays, as she finally has a job; and I still have school of course (midterms next week…oi). So, as always, reviews are welcome, and more importantly, enjoy!