Chizuru pov

I quickly open my eyes, seeing only darkness around me. I get up trembling and looking around <<where am i? where are the others? is anybody here?! Answer me please!>> and i waited desperately for an answer...but my voice echoes alone in the dark for a long moment. I continued to wait terrified, and i clap my hands against my chest...but then <<Yukimura!>>

I turn my head toward the voice, without seeing anyone...and yet he seemed so close <<Hijikata-san?! Where are you?! are the others with you?!>> and I start immediately to run toward his voice. But then the ground under my feet becomes water, and I sink a bit in it, but luckily the water reaches only my knees.

I yell surprised <<ah! Water!?>> but a different voice calls me with worry <<Chizuru?! What happened?!>> I widen my eyes shocked <<Harada-san?! you're here too?!>> but a third voice speaks up, preventing Harada from answering. Osen-chan's voice voice reaches my ears without difficulty <<calm down, probably we all are here...but we can't see each other>> and in fact Nagakura-san answered her with an annoyed tone, confirming his presence <<i understand but...where are we exactly?! Ohh, there is water here too>> and i heard a splash. Okita-san sighs <<so what? We have to get out of here>> and Kondo-kun backs him up, saying the same thing.

Kimigiku snaps her tongue <<it will not be so easy...i'm afraid that we're trapped inside a demon art. Only someone more powerful than Hisao can save us>> and Sannan-san, with an irritated tone, asks <<and you two can't do that?>> but Okita didn't give them time to answer <<is it me or two voices are missing? i mean Riko and Yuichi's voices>> and in fact they didn't answer, proving that they're not here with us. I bit my lip worried <<we have to find them>> but all of a sudden the water around me lights up.

I jump back surprised and scared, and at the same time i also hear the others exclaiming surprised. Nagakura-san screams <<what the hell is happening?!>> and even Harada-san yells <<woh! i don't know!>> but Hijikata-san shouts at them <<calm down! It doesn't look dangerous>> and immediately after the water's light faded...showing an image.

Inside the image there is a huge room...and there are many demons inside it, who are fighting against each others. I turn pale seeing the bloody battle, feeling a shiver on my back...and I wasn't alone because i heard the others gasp or jump surprised. But surprisingly the more shocked are Osen-chan and Kimigiku.

Osen-chan's voice trembled a little <<it's...Osaka castle!>> and Kimigiku yells <<how is that possible?!>> but Kondo-san speaks with a calm tone <<i also recognize it...i'm sure that this is Osaka's castle...but who are those people? Yokai?>> and Okita-san sighs curious <<i bet that you're right...they don't look like humans>> and I look closely, seeing people with wings, horns, tails, fangs...and others strange features. Harada-san with an anxious tone asks <<Sen-hime, what exactly are we seeing? don't tell me that it's what is happening right now!>> but Kimigiku ignored his question <<princess, that Hisao said that...>> she stops, but Osen-chan continues her sentence <<yes, he said that he has the ability to revive people's most painful memories. So now I'm sure we're prisoners inside a memory, because this battle inside Osaka's castle happened two hundred years ago...and it's also when Hagoromo Gitsune was defeated>> I cover my mouth shocked, but Hijikata-san snorts <<we don't have time for this! And who do these memories belong to?!>> but then the image focused on two figures...a man and a woman. I point at them, forgetting that the others can't see me <<look! >> but they probably did that because they shut up.

I look closely, and I notice immediately that i was wrong...there are not only two people there, but three. On the left there is a young male demon, with long blonde and black raised hair. The young demon's kimono is destroyed, and on his back i can see a big tattoo of Buddha. In front of him there is an intimidating woman, with long black hair and small amber eyes...she's dressed like someone important. But trapped in the woman's arms there is a scared young girl, with long brown hair and big brown eyes, similar to those of Riko. i gasp shocked, realizing immediately who she is...she's Yohime! So the young male yokai maybe is...

The scary lady caress Yohime's head with a happy smile <<fascinating...what riveting entertainment>> and she smirks <<it's been a good century since an ayakashi has opposed me>> Okita-san says with a strange tone <<that girl looks like Riko>> and Kimigiku with a tense voice answers <<she's Yohime. Two hundred years ago, Hagoromo Gitsune captured and ate many young women with strange and singular powers. That day she tried to eat also Yohime, because she was able to heal every injury or illness with only a touch. But this time, Hagoromo Gitsune tried to eat someone really dear to Nurarihyon...and he came to save her>> I knew it! That young yokai is Riko's grandfather!

Everyone gasp or exclaims shocked, realizing finally that they are watching Nurarihyon. the image moves, and Nurarihyon starts to run toward Hagoromo Gitsune with his katana raised above his head. his action silences everyone, and we continue to look at the scene with curiosity.

Nurarihyon yells furious at Hagoromo Gitsune <<don't you lay a finger on my woman!>> but quickly from Hagoromo Gitsune's back comes out numerous fox tails. With amazing speed and strength the tails hits painful Nurarihyon, stopping and hurting him as if they were sharp swords. Hagoromo Gitsune chuckles amused <<oh oh, so you've fallen in love with this woman? it's really bizarre>> and Nurarihyon fall on his knees, coughing blood. Hagoromo Gitsune grabs Yohime's chin <<this girl...has also the power to seduce demons? Now I want to try eating her ikigimo more than ever...i'm sure that her organs will be delicious>> and she moved her faces closer to Yohime...in a strange and scary way, like she wanted to kiss her. Nurarihyon quickly jumps on his feet, and start to run again toward them, calling with despair and worry the young girl's name <<Yohime!>> but Hagoromo Gitsune tries to stop him using again her tails like weapons...but with impressive skill he cuts two tails and continue to run avoiding her others attacks. Hagoromo Gitsune looks at her injured tails and chuckles amused. in the same moment, she makes four more tails pop out from her back, catching him by surprise. using that opportunity she hits him again, stopping his running and making him cough more blood.

She shakes a little her tails with an amused face <<how artless...just coming at me head-on. Ahh, just when I started thinking you might have some skill, you turn out to be on the same level as all those other demons. you're still alive because this is entertainment for me...so entertain me!>> Nurarihyon stands up slowly, but Hagoromo Gitsune continues to speak <<can you see how many tails I have? Even I can't count them all...their number equals the number of times I've been reincarnated. It seems they've reacted to the hot-blooded ayakashi coming to oppose me>> and she attack him again, without mercy...injuring him and making him suffer.

I cover my mouth horrified <<i can't watch...>> and Harada-san growls <<i don't care if he's a demon, he's only trying to protect the woman he love. it's disgusting how that fox is only toying with him in front of Yohime just for that>> Osen-chan sighs <<we know, but like I said before...no one dared to fight her, and now you can understand why>> she sighs again<<this is why during this battle me, Kimigiku and the other oni clans were fighting against the Nura clan. we took Hagoromo Gitsune's side because we fear her. even Kazama and Amagiri fought for her, but those two were practically raised at her side, so they still support her>> I widen my eyes surprised. We already know that the oni fought for Hagoromo Gitsune, but...

Nagakura-san asks her shocked <<you were there?! How old are you?!>> and Harada-san sighs <<how many times do I have to tell you not to ask this to a girl?>> but Sannan-san answers <<considering that Hagoromo Gitsune appeared centuries ago...we already know that some yokai can live much longer than humans, although perhaps this is due to her ability to reincarnate>> and he continues to mumble curious. Hijikata-san sighs annoyed <<then Kazama and the others were already a pain in the ass centuries ago>> and Okita-san hums annoyed <<i don't care, we only need to kill them next time>> but Osen-chan says with an angry tone <<i already told you that it will not be so easily, you can't beat them if they would fight you seriously>> but then the scream of Yohime interrupt our conversation <<Ayakashi-sama!>> and she extend her hand toward him.

Under our incredulous eyes her hand glows with a bright yellow light. Hagoromo Gitsune stops her immediately, taking down her hand <<now now, none of that! I know about your ability...and doing that would just make this fight boring>> but Yohime tries to free herself, looking at Nurarihyon with eyes full of tears <<why?! Why are you so reckless?! I...i don't understand you! Carrying on until you're like this...are all men like this?!>> Hagoromo Gitsune laughs <<you say such adorable things. Listen carefully...among both humans and yokai of this world, there are also many wise men>> and she looks at Yohime with almost pity <<you don't know men at all, do you? How pitiable, that the first man you come to know should be such a foolish, tactless creature...and how pitiable, that he will be the last you ever know>> and she chuckles. Nurarihyon begins to get up slowly <<Yohime...how do I appear to you right now? I must look like a fool, just as she says, right?>> I cover my mouth looking at the blood that he's loosing. Yohime trembles and shake her head, so Nurarihyon smiles happy <<when I think about you...my heart completely unravels. you're just like a cherry petal...so beautiful...pure and fleeting...soothing the hearts of those who see it. I know for sure, that just with you by my side...everything around me would shine brightly and flourish. That's the future...that I can see...>> he tights his hand around his sword, and he stands up ignoring his injuries <<but despite that...you looked unhappy. I will make you happy, believe me>> he shakes his katana, making the blood on it fall on the ground <<so, how do I look now? Here before you?>> Yohime covers her mouth...and whisper with a trembling voice <<Ayakashi-sama...>> but Nurarihyon continues to speak <<do I look like a man who could make you happy?>> he chuckles amused <<ehh, I guess not. Who am I kidding? I wanted to change your mind and show you how great I am, but instead...look at me. The true is that...>> a really dense black fog surrounds the figure of Nurarihyon, and his eyes becomes completely black...but his pupils shines with a beautiful gold color <<i'm so intoxicated by you...that I'm about to lose my mind>> I look at him feeling a strange sensation. I tremble scared...but I also feel a great admiration for Nurarihyon, because he's a fool, but he's fighting for the woman he love with such passion against a creature so evil and scary.

Osen-chan holds her breath <<this is...his true power>>

Nurarihyon glares at Hagoromo Gitsune with terrifying eyes <<it's high time you returned her to me...Hagoromo Gitsune. let's go, the true battle of shadows...of ayakashi...starts now>> and the fog covering him completely and vanishes, making him disappear as well with it.

I widen my eyes amazed and Kondo-san asks shocked <<where did he go?!>> but Kimigiku sighs a little amused <<he's still there...but you cannot see him. it's his fear>> and Nurarihyon quickly reappears in front of Hagoromo Gitsune, with his katana raised above him...ready to attack. But Hagoromo Gitsune quickly attacks him with her tails, hitting his sword, and making it fly away from his hand. Nurarihyon then quickly puts a hand behind him, near his belt...under the pieces of his destroyed kimono...and from it takes out a second hidden katana. We gasp impressed, and with a surprise attack he cuts Hagoromo Gitsune's tails and face from below, making a diagonally deep cut that starts from her chin and continue ending on her forehead.

Hagoromo Gitsune immediately lets Yohime go and put her hands on her face, screaming in pain <<ugh! wh..what is that sword?! Gahh!>> and from her wound erupts a cascade of blood and a strange dark substance. The dark substance then goes toward the ceiling and break it...disappearing outside in the night sky, covered with big and black clouds. Hagoromo Gitsune screams desperate <<ahhh! No! it's escaping! My spirit power is escaping?! The power I gather for my baby inside me for all this years! Come back!>> and she runs toward the black substance, going on the roof.

I widen my eyes <<baby?!>> and Okita adds disgusted <<bleah, that thing was pregnant?>> and Nagakura-san shivers <<i don't want to know the answer, I bet that the child was like his mother>> but Kondo-san sighs sad <<it's still not right, that child was still innocent>> Osen-chan coughs a little, trying to speak, but Nurarihyon interrupts her because he quickly entrust Yohime to another yokai, with long black and dark green hair, and follow Hagoromo Gitsune toward the roof.

When he arrived on the roof a tail hit him from behind, piercing him from side to side. The tail steals his beating heart, ripping it out from his chest, and Nurarihyon falls on his knees surprised and in pain...but he's still breathing...incredible!

Hagoromo Gitsune holds his heart near her face <<did you think you could come up here and finish me off?>> she glare at him with black eyes, and the blood of her wound covers her clothes <<you...you really have gone too far now!! just how many years do you think it took me to gain all of my power?>> Nurarihyon didn't answer, but frowns and get up. Hagoromo Gitsune snaps her tongue really angry, and she eats his heart in one go <<i don't know how much power I can get back by eating a heart from the likes of you...>> she licks her fingers <<no matter how many of them I could line up...it would never be enough to make you pay for what you did!>> and she attacks him with her tails.

But then a man on the back of a shikigami appears in the sky. The shikigami has the body of a bird and the face of a little girl, and the man...he has short dark hair covered with a hat, and his eyes are also dark. he's also dressed like a priest. He's definitely an onmyoji!

The man claps his hand together and scream <<shikigami Hagun!>> and many ofuda surround Hagoromo Gitsune.

Nurarihyon looks surprised at the man <<Hi...Hidemoto?>> but the man called Hidemoto ignored him <<oh twelve ancestral gods...come forth from your hyakki and cleanse this cursed evil!>> and from the ofuda appears many skeletons dressed like him. Strange black chains composed only with kanji come out from the skeletons, and they tied Hagoromo Gitsune with them. She screams shocked <<i...I can't move!>> but Hidemoto continues to speaks <<god of the eastern sea, Amei...god of the western sea, Shukura...>> and Nurarihyon looks at him annoyed <<stop interfering Hidemoto>> but Hidemoto smirks at him <<oi oi, I'm the one who made the sword that you're using. Cuts pretty nicely, doesn't it? Thought it cut only ayakashi. But don't worry, you can take all the credit, Nura-chan>> and Nurarihyon begins to walk toward Hagoromo Gitsune, who screams scared <<wa...wait!>> but Nurarihyon with a quick attack cuts her in half.

Hagoromo Gitsune screams furious <<da...damn you!>> and then a gigantic white fox jumps outside the body of the dead woman. The fox is like a violet fog, but her furious eyes are red <<i'll never forgive you...never! Curse you! I curse you Nurarihyon! you'll pay for your sin of crushing my dearest desire! I curse your descendants for all eternity! No matter how many generations pass by...your children, your grandchildren!! they'll all be caught in the curse of this fox!>> and she disappears, leaving behind the body of the woman...who lifeless falls down the roof.

The image on the water faded and slowly vanished. Osen-chan breaks the silence saying with a tense tone <<this is...Hagoromo Gitsune defeat, by the hands of the new lord of all the monsters...Nurarihyon>> I gulp trembling <<i..incredible>> Hijikata-san sighs <<then...Kazama is after Nura because she looks like Nurarihyon's woman?>> but Kimigiku snaps her tongue <<no one know the connection between Riko-san and Nurarihyon...but surely there is something. The problem is that everyone know that Nurarihyon and Yohime have only a son, and now their son is ruling Edo. So no one know who Riko-san really is>> Osen-chan adds <<Kazama also want to know who she is, but he's not stupid...he know that she is connected with Nurarihyon, so he want her for her power now that we no longer have someone powerful like Hagoromo Gitsune at our side. If Riko has a child with a powerful demon...then their child will be even stronger than his parents, even if he would not be a pure demon>> Nagakura-san gasps shocked <<are you saying that also Riko is not human?>> the silence after that question make me shiver, but after a few moments Osen-chan sighs <<yes, Riko-chan is what we call a gray existence, a mixed blood. In fact, she is a demon only for a quarter and human for the remaining three quarters...so it's wrong to assume that she is Nurarihyon's daughter, because it's impossible. However...Hisao claimed that she's from the Nura clan, and that clan is Nurarihyon's pandemonium>> Hijikata-san snorts <<so? In the end who is she?>> but Okita-san chuckles <<funny, everyone want to know that but no one have the answer>> but Hijikata-san barks <<shut up Souji!>> and they begin to argue.

I speak up, with a timid voice <<ehm...i know who she is, she told me. Although I'm not sure how is it possible>> but Okita-san sighs <<i think that I also figured it out, we only need to think about what that lizard said about his power. Sen, what's the name of Nurarihyon's son?>> I widen my eyes, understanding what Okita-san is trying to say <<of course! He said that he can make people travel through time with the help of special flowers!>> but then the water around me lights up again, showing another image. This time there is a gigantic manor, and in the garden there are many demons, who are drinking and eating happily...and in the center of the party there are two children.

Riko pov

What I was doing? I can't remember. Mana looks at me puzzled <<what's the matter kiddo? You don't like your ice cream?>> I look around me, seeing all the monsters of the house celebrate happily, and then I look at the chocolate ice cream inside a transparent cup in my hands. Tsurara is feeding happily Rikuo, because today it's his first birthday, but when she heard us she turn around shocked. She runs in front of me <<young mistress! it's true that you don't like my ice?! Is it too cold for your taste?! I'll make you another one right away!>> I blink a few times and shake my head, starting again to eat <<everything you cook is frozen and cold, yuki onna>> grandpa chuckles <<what a temper, and she is still only six, right Chizuru?>> Chizuru chuckles and nods <<don't worry Tsurara, you're kindness is always appreciate>> but Tsurara looks downs sighing <<so my cooking is good or not?>> but Rikuo claps his hands laughing, gesturing toward the spoon full of ice cream in Tsurara's hand. We all look at him and Mana rolls her eyes chuckling <<i say that the answer is obvious>> mum chuckles <<ahh what a lovely day>> and she kindly takes me in her arms, putting me on her knees <<i wish today would never end>> and dad, sitting near her, smiles <<what do you always say my dear? Happiness comes to those who smile, right?>> and she nods happily.

Dad ruffles my hair <<so don't steal anyone's smile, especially to our family members>> I frown worried and nod, looking at Tsurara <<sorry Tsurara, I really like your cooking>> and bow a little. She smiles and shake her head <<don't worry young mistress, I still want to improve my cooking, and make something that everyone likes>> but grandpa grins and pinch my cheek <<with that worried face you look like your grandmother>> and dad laughs nodding. I move away grandpa's hand from my cheek <<ahh come on grandpa, you always say that!>> and Karasu Tengu, who is flying near, says <<the supreme commander is right, but with all this noise is normal to make a face like that>> and he crosses his arms, looking at the other demons who are drinking and eating making a mess everywhere. Mana sighs annoyed <<here he goes again>> but behind mum and me I hear Shiro's voice <<mother? what's the matter? Karasu Tengu is looking at me and Natto Kozo with a really angry face>> but Chizuru quickly stands up <<ah no! it's nothing, come with me now...i need to take more food from the kitchen, so come and help me>> and she runs away. I look in front of us, seeing plenty of food already here...but then everything become black and I continue to sink.

...

I continue to sink in the dark water...feeling something pulling my mind deeper and deeper.

I continue to run in a hurry, and then I reach Kubinashi, dad and Rikuo, who is in dad's arms...near the manor's gate. Dad saw me coming and smile <<there you are, my sweet little bear>> but then he frowns and come closer. He keeps Rikuo against his chest with a hand, and with the other he grabs my scraped hand <<what happened?>> I shrug <<nothing, I was running away from Kejoro with Zen, Mana and Shiro, but I slipped. We teased her, making her think we'd cut off a lock of her hair and she was really angry>> Kubinashi sighs <<young mistress...you're already twelve, you should stop to do so many pranks, because you might get hurt>> I puff my cheeks <<but grandpa said that the best demons make pranks all the time, and that no one can catch them!>> dad laughs <<that's one way of putting it, but you need to be more careful, understood?>> I look down and nod. Dad smiles pleased and makes his hand glows...the bright yellow light covers our hands and my scratches heals immediately. He kindly squeezes my hand <<there you go, now children...we have to go>> Rikuo smiles <<yes dad>> I also squeeze his hand in return nodding.

We begin to walk away, but Kubinashi stops us <<wait a moment please, Rihan-sama. About what we were talking...>> dad turns his head and look at him <<Kubinashi...there's not much else to say. I want to let them choose...>> and he squeezes a little my hand again and push Rikuo against him a little more <<between human and ayakashi>> me and Rikuo look at him puzzled, without understand...but Kubinashi sighs <<Rihan-sama...>> but dad smiles a little <<once you set foot in this world of yokai, you can never come back. As a half-blood I chose the ayakashi way...i became a bridge between the human world and the night word of us demons. But my children's blood is only a quarter ayakashi...they must decide for themselves which life they will lead>> and he looks at me and Rikuo. Kubinashi frowns worried <<but we will need them if something happen to...!>> dad interrupts him with a calm tone <<Kubinashi, you're worrying to much. Humans now rule this world, and the darkness disappeared from many cities. There is no longer so much danger and we demons are on the edge of history, for this reason Riko and Rikuo will be the symbol of a new future between demons and humans...regardless of what they will choose. That's why you mustn't talk too much about the world of ayakashi in front of them. Make sure you tell my old man to do the same...and if they choose to follow my own path then...help them>> Kubinashi looks at me and then at Rikuo <<i understand. Then what we will do if they choose to follow your path?>> dad thinks about it for a moment. Then he begins to say <<a leader must earn the trust of his men, and he must know how to make difficult decisions, but he cannot do it alone. He needs someone by his side, who helps him with everything he can't do. A person may be the strongest, but if he's alone then...he will be always the most vulnerable. This is why we ayakashi make pandemoniums>> he looks at us lost in his thoughts <<you would both be great commanders, you have good hearts and you love our clan...but exactly for that you must always protect each other, whatever happens because you're brother and sister. So you have to watch each other's back, promise me that you will do that always>> and he puts Rikuo on the ground near me. 

me and Rikuo look at each other and nod <<we promise!>>

dad nods satisfied <<very well. This is your answer Kubinashi...Rikuo with his good heart will be a perfect commander, if he choose to take this path. Riko, instead, was always been a little more naughty, right?>> and he grins at me. I blush embarrassed and I nod looking away <<y..yes>> he kneels in front of me <<you're the oldest, I know it's a heavy burden, but I trust you...your job will be to watch over him as his vice-commander, okay?>> I nod hugging Rikuo <<he won't get rid of me so easily!>> and Rikuo tries to free himself from my arms <<ahh come on, let me go big sister...if I will be the commander then you don't need to protect me, because I will be the one protecting you!>> dad laughs out loud, and takes us in his arms. He puts me on his shoulders and keep Rikuo against his chest like before <<come on, by now the flowers will have already bloomed>> and he begins to walk away.

I look behind me waving at Kubinashi, who looks at us with tender eyes. He smiles at me and wave at us.

...

I look petrified at the horrific scene in front of us. The pale little girl is standing near dad...who is lying on the ground already dead. There is an old creepy yokai near the girl...he looks like an old hunchback of short stature with bony fingers. His head is bald and really big...but on it there is a big gray eye, and the white of the eye is red. He has a white beard and a grin on his face...so everyone can see that he's also toothless. And he has an eagle on his shoulder.

The old yokai bows toward the little girl <<my lady, it seems that during your long sleep your enemies have increased their number>> she chuckles <<yes, but I've been waiting impatiently for this moment>> and she looks at the blooded katana in her hand. We tremble, but Rikuo with a faint whisper ask <<who are you lady? And who's the other person there?>> and the girl turns around, smiling at us with cold and empty eyes like ice. She walks toward us and we step back terrified and shocked. The little girl disappears for a moment and appear in front of us in an instant, placing her white hand on Rikuo's cheek watching us carefully with a cruel grin <<so...he has two grandchildren as well. I see, his son breeds with a human too. This unpredictable blood evaded my plans...Nurarihyon's grandchildren. But still...the fox curse will never fade and the bloodline will surely end>> she raises her sword, and from her back comes out many fox tails. I quickly grab Rikuo's collar pulling him back, pushing him away screaming <<Rikuo get away!>> and then I feel the blade collide and shear my back. I fall on the ground in a pool of blood, feeling a blinding pain. My sigh quickly becomes clouded...but I see Rikuo running away with success. I smile a little...happy that at least he managed to escape.

I hear the girl's voice near...but also my hearing now is muffled <<it's appear that one escaped, but it's alright. If they both die here my curse couldn't be fulfilled>> and the old man chuckles <<as you wish Hagoromo Gitsune-sama>> and they go away.

With my last strength I search for dad with my trembling hand...but my sigh is already black <<d..dad...>> and I lost consciousness...sinking more and more in the dark water.

Chizuru pov

my legs tremble and I look at the fading image shocked...i feel faint. wh...what did I just see? That was m..me? And...

I feel on my knees overwhelmed. Hijikata-san growls <<this is absurd>> and Harada-san sighs tense <<i can't believe that...Hagoromo Gitsune killed Riko's father>> and Nagakura-san also growls upset <<yeah, it was definitely her...it was a brutal and cruel move...>> but Osen-chan interrupts him <<Hagoromo Gitsune's grudge can last forever...and she know how to hit where it hurts the most>> Kimigiku sighs <<this is why we served her...only Nurarihyon beat her in the past, and now finding out that he will have two grandchildren...but I don't know if they can do something against her>> Okita-san sighs annoyed <<you two have the habit of underestimating people. Did you ever talked with Riko about this?>> I nod agreeing with him <<he's right, she always told me that she loved very much her father...and now she want revenge. She leaned how to fight for that and for protect her brother. I have faith in her...and she proved already that she isn't weak>> but Hijikata-san snaps his tongue <<then explain to us what we saw, why you were in that memory? And who is Shiro?>> I blush and gulp, without knowing what to answer <<i..i...>> but Okita-san chuckles <<i bet that we saw something from the future. It seems that Chizuru-chan will become smart, and she will settle down well>> I blush covering my cheeks...Shiro is my...? I shake my head quickly, now it's not the time! But I remembered that Riko said that he's like a brother for her.

Kondo-san sighs sad <<but still I can't believe this...Nura-san suffered so much when she was so little, and she's still trying to help us. It doesn't matter if she's human or not, she is the same Nura-san that we knew already>> Sannan-san agreed <<you're right, but it's really fascinating knowing that she has the same blood of a demon so powerful in her veins...she looks so human>> I frown a little, because his tone is a little creepy.

Osen-chan sighs <<Riko-chan is still Riko-chan, but now finally we know why she looks so much like Yohime. I wonder if she also takes some quality from her grandfather and her father>> Hijikata-san tried to say something more...but the water starts to glow again, showing another memory...

It's dark, but in the center of the darkness there is a little hill, with a big cherry tree in the middle. The tree is in bloom...but the tree is dying, and the pink petals are falling everywhere.

There are two people under the tree, and when I recognize them I cover my mouth, feeling something squeeze my heart. Rihan is sitting with his back against the tree, and he's continuing to whisper <<don't die...this is not your time...don't follow me here my sweet little bear, not now...don't die with me>> and in his arms there is Riko. she's sleeping, but I can clearly see a lot of blood on her back...where her yukata is torn. I gasp and tremble, and I hear the others hold their breath.

Rihan squeezes her against his chest, cradling her quietly with sad eyes <<for me it's time...but you have to live>> but then, out of nowhere, a familiar figure appears nearby and walks toward them. She puts her hand on Riko's back, with a gentle touch <<he's right, it's not your time yet...you have to take care of everyone, especially that grumpy of your grandfather for me...he can't lose both of you like this>> and Yohime's hand glows, making the injury on Riko's back disappear. Yohime smile at Rihan, but he sighs amused <<so...you came to get me mom>> and he kisses Riko's forehead for the last time. He puts her gently on the ground <<take care of your brother, your mum and your grandpa for me...and live a long happy life, I don't want to see you here for a long time>> Yohime holds her hand toward him, and he grabs it. Then they together begin to walk away...disappearing in the darkness.

Riko pov

I suddenly wake up, feeling my eyes wet. I feel under me a soft futon, and i look around seeing that I am in my room. I sit up slowly, noticing that I'm wearing a white yukata...and my torso is covered with bandages. A wet cloth fall from my forehead, and I see grandpa sleeping near the futon. A little far away there are also Tsurara with Rikuo in her arms, and they also are sleeping. I hear a noise behind me, and I turn my head seeing a young boy in front of my desk. He is crushing some herbs...and he's so focused that he didn't noticed that I'm awake. He has dark red eyes and light green hair. There is also others people in the room...Kubinashi, Kurotabou, Karasu Tengu and Gyuki...but they all are sleeping with a frown on their faces. I look at Zen and I try to speak, but my voice comes out raspy <<Zen...>> he stops shocked and look up. He widen his eyes incredulous <<Riko!>> and he left behind the medicine that he was making. He runs toward me, and grabs my shoulders with teary eyes.

His scream waked up the others, and Rikuo jumps in my arms crying, pushing Zen away a little in the process. Rikuo continues to cry desperate <<i'm sorry! I'm so sorry big sister!>> I also begin to cry, and i hug him trembling <<thank god...you're alright>> and also grandpa hugs us, hiding his face against our shoulders. I hug him in return with an arm <<grandpa...>> but he sighs <<don't ask anything. it's better if you both know nothing...i don't want to lose you too>> and he squeezes us. Kubinashi and the others continue to cry in relief near the room's wall, but Zen freaks out <<supreme commander don't do that! You risks to reopen Riko's wound!>> and Gyuki, a tall man with long green and black eyes nods <<we're all happy that Riko is awake, but Zen is right, she's still wounded. This past weeks have been decisive for her...because she have could died at any time. So now...she need to rest>> Kurotabou, a yokai dressed like a monk, frowns <<Gyuki, give them a moment please>> but then the room's door opens. Mum stops and look at us with big eyes. She lets the bowl of waiter in her hand fall on the ground an begin to tremble. I notice immediately that she's wearing a black yukata...a color that she doesn't like, but she begins to sob and run toward us. Grandpa moves aside and mum hugs me and Rikuo, crying loudly.

Karasu Tengu bows <<i'm so glad that at least the children are alright...i will go to tell the others that Riko-sama is finally awake. Everyone will be happy of the good news>> and he flies away.

Nurarihyon takes Rikuo in his arms, but mum caress my cheeks with tears in her eyes <<lie down, you need to rest...i'm sure that Zen-kun will make immediately a medicine for the pain>> and Zen jumping on his feet nods <<yes! i will do it immediately!>> and he runs toward my desk, for making another medicine.

I blink puzzled a few times <<but I...i don't feel any pain. I'm...a..alright>> and I cover my face trebling and crying desperate. Remembering that dad is no longer here.

Yuichi pov

I open slightly my right eye, seeing that everyone are sleeping deeply, and Hisao is standing in the middle of the room. He grabs a knife from the sleeve of his kimono and walk toward Riko. He smirks and grab her collar, raising her a little from the ground...ready to kill her. I finished to whisper an enchantment and jump on my feet. I grab a piece of paper from my kimono and throw it at him. The piece of paper transforms in a big white tiger, who roars out loud and push Hisao away, throwing him and himself out of the room.

I immediately follow them in the courtyard, and my tiger shikigami...called Yozo, stops protectively in front of me. Hisao smirks <<so you were only pretending to be unconscious, you little shit>> I glare at him <<you're a little too confident in yourself, your fog wasn't so impressive. Now I will kill you and I'll wake up the others, and you will be only a bad memory>> he chuckles <<i don't think so, prayer and talismans will not be enough to killing me. I think that I'm not the one too much confident in myself here>> I frown <<what do you mean?>> he makes the knife in his hand spin around <<the sleep your friends have fallen into is not something so trivial. they're bound to relive the little girl's saddest memories over and over...and you can't help them from outside, on one can. The best part is that if they die now...their spirits will remain trapped inside my demonic art, and they will relive the memories for all eternity...an eternity torture>> he laughs <<the only person who can rescue them is the person who needs to be saved, if the owner of the memories wakes up then they're free...but it's impossible>> I snap my tongue <<i will think about it later, now I have to kill you first...so Yozo, if you don't mind...>> Yozo roars and attack Hisao. I also throw an ofuda at him, for stopping his fear...but it does not affect him. Hisao jumps aside avoiding Yozo and he blows from his mouth a cloud of fog, hitting the tiger.

Yozo coughs and whimper disappearing, returning to be a piece of paper. I clench my teeth <<i was wondering how you managed to enter in the city with so much fear on you...but now I understand your trick>> Hisao puts a hand on his hip <<ohh, so Riko told you something. Since I'm from the future...your ofuda and your barriers doesn't work against me, and I just need only a shot for send your shikigami away. Exorcist...you have no hope against me>> but from the inside of the temple comes out many onmyoji and some Shinsengumi's soldiers...rasetzu, Sannan-san's squad.

I sigh relieved <<maybe you're right...but I remind you that you're alone, and you're inside one of our headquarters>> but he smiles with arrogant eyes <<so I'm alone? I don't think so...Kiku and the others should arrive soon>> and after that the temple's front door explodes, and many demons enter inside.

I cover a moment my face, for avoiding the dust...but then I see almost forty demons enter...a pandemonium!

I clench my teeth <<you all are here to kill Nurarihyon's grandchild!>> and a beautiful woman walks toward us, emerging from the group. She has long black hair and orange eyes, but on her face there are strange tattoos shaped like branches with many thorns. She smiles <<of course, and if you want to protect her then we will also kill you all. Besides, why would an exorcist protect a woman with the blood of a demon inside her veins?>> I didn't answer, but I raise my hand making a gesture to my men...signaling to them that we will fight.

Hisao looks at the woman <<Kiku, be careful to don't tear apart to much Riko...that little babaneko told us where she is under the condition that he can destroy her body>> but Kiku sighs amused <<oh stop it, I bet that you also already tried to kill and eat her. I lied to him of course...i won't leave her to him>> and she crosses her arms. From her back comes out many black tentacles shaped like branches with many thorns...and the battle begins.

Two samurai attack Kiku, but she doesn't move and attack with her branches. One of the samurai cuts a branch, but from it comes out a rope of blood that stick the wounded part with the chopped part. The branch then wraps himself around the samurai...stinging him everywhere. I watch powerless the man growing old in a few seconds...like something sucks away his life along with his blood...and then he died. I move closer ready to fight <<so lady, you're a jubokko...but it doesn't change anything>> Hisao moves closer to her <<so you still want to fight? As you wish>> and the fights around us continued. The demons continued to kill my men...because our ofuda doesn't work against them, and our Shikigami are not enough for all demons.

I clap my hand together in front of my face, with a ofuda between my fingers <<i don't need to fight. I will destroy all of you with a single move!>> and I begin to say a pray...focusing to use my Joukasuru. I hope that Riko and the other oni girls can resist and don't die for this.

Hisao snaps his tongue <<fool! Your onmyoji's art don't work against us!>> but Kiku frowns <<wait...a barrier so big and powerful can probably hurt us. We need to stop him!>> and her branches moves toward me ready to kill. I didn't even blink and continue to recite the Joukasuru's pray, because if I stop or if I move away then the purifying barrier wouldn't active right...and it will be useless.

The branches comes really close in a matter of seconds, but suddenly a katana cuts them easily and a vortex of fire burns the cut parts...reducing them in ashes and keeping them from regenerate. Kiku screams for the pain and the anger, and two people stop in front of me. They are a guy and a girl, with their faces covered with a mask...and they are wearing ninja outfits, similar to the one that Yamazaki wears sometimes. They have their head covered with a dark hood, sewed with their outfits. The guy has a red mask, that covers his entire face...but the girl's mask is blue, and it covers only half of her face...letting us see her mouth and her chin.

A hand from behind me grabs the ofuda in my hands, and steal it with a gentle but strong movement <<you don't need this>> I turn around shocked seeing another person...i didn't hear her! And she's already so close...

She's a petite woman, with a black mask that covers half of her face...and she's wearing a mix of japanese and occidental clothes. she's wearing a long black skirt, a white blouse and a long dark blue haori on her shoulder. Around her hips there is a belt, with a katana and a kodachi, and on her feet she has only a pair of wooden zori with high heel...also she's not wearing tabi. The girl with the black mask smiles at me and Kiku begins to backing away intimated...looking at the newcomers furious <<bastards...you'll pay for that!>> and Hisao blows a cloud of fog toward them, but the girl with the blue mask takes a big breath and inspire all the fog <<thanks for the meal>> and she smirks. The guy with the red mask shakes his head annoyed <<stop playing, there's no time to lose>> I look at them puzzled and shocked...who the hell are they?! they're obviously yokai, so why they are helping us?

Inoue-san, nearby, looks really surprised at the three masked demons <<who are you?>> and the girl with the black mask smiles at him with kindness, but when she speaks her voice is firm and confident <<all you need to know is that we're allies>>