Author's Notes: The following fanfiction is co-authored with Jamie. Much gratitude goes to her for this fanfic's existence. This fic was a RP that started out between us and has become an excellent Ronin Warriors fanfic. Disclaimers: Yoroiden Samurai Troopers is owned by Sunrise Inc. Ronin Warriors is owned by Graz Entertainment. Songs and singers owned by whoever sang, wrote, produced them which is not me. Names, images, etc., are © of their respective creator(s). I'm only using them for entertainment but nonprofit purposes only. Just don't wanna be sued!! No cash! Thanks much.

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~~~Kawusu Park in Toyama, Japan~~~

The sunlight was welcomed as the five teenagers known as the Ronin Warrior played basketball in the local park near Kawusu Gym. Rowen Hashiba, Ryo Sanada, and Cye Mouri were winning against Sage Date and Kento Shuu. The score was thirty five to twenty six, in favor of the first team.

"Just give up." said Rowen as he dribbled the ball.

"You wish." scoffed Kento.

"Suit yourself." Rowen shot another three pointer over Kento's head. The ball rolled back to Ryo who picked it up. He threw it to Sage.

From behind them, the large modern gym cast its large shadow over the street. A young girl exited, after finishing her morning martial arts class. A loner by nature, Kaylee had shoulder length black hair and ice blue eyes. Her eyes were shielded by her dark sunglasses. She saw that the park up ahead was occupied by five teenage boys playing basketball in the courts. Kaylee walked past the group, carrying large textbook and paper bag. She looked up to see the five boys were soon joined by another teenage girl. The strange girl walked up casually and waved to the group who greeted her back.

"Hey!" the girl said, her voice carried to Kaylee by the winds.

"Jade, what's up?" asked Cye. Ryo seemed especially excited to see her and tried to give her a quick hug which the girl avoided playfully. The laughing girl twirled around Ryo and went to hide behind Rowen instead. She was wearing a pair of baggy black jeans and navy blue and white sneakers. Her top was a violet shirt with the sleeves torn off. Her waist length black hair was streaked purple and midnight blue in two braids, making her look younger than she really was.

Kaylee ignored the proceeding as she settled on the bench to read. Completely engrossed with her thick book, she didn't notice the ball roll her way and stop at her foot. Kaylee set her book down and picked up the orange ball. She looked up at the group over the top of her sunglasses. The girl turned to see Kaylee with the basketball.

"May I help you?" Kaylee asked in a emotionless tone of voice. She was still holding the ball, looking like she wasn't going to be willing to give it back any time soon.

"Hi. Can we have the ball back?" asked Kento in a friendly voice. Behind him, the group was waiting for an answer but Kaylee didn't move.

"And what if I say no?" asked Kaylee.

"Then we win." smirked Rowen, gesturing to Cye, Ryo, and himself. Kento turned to give him a glare.

"No, you do not win!" said Kento hotly.

"Actually, I do not think that was a fair game. Three on two. How...dishonorable."

Kento shrugged. "Well, there was only five of us. But if you want to make it fair, play for us then."

"Or Jade will." smiled Ryo.

"Uh no." Jade sweatdropped. "I don't do sports."

"Exactly." laughed Rowen which made Jade punch him lightly on the arm.

"Who is your best player?" Kaylee asked looking at Rowen, Ryo, and Cye.

"Rowen." answered Cye.

"I will play him..." said Kaylee standing up with the ball in hand.

"One on one?' asked Jade.

"Ok, I don't mind." said Rowen, grinning.

"Yes one on one." Kaylee said, taking the ball to the court walking with a cold looking grace.

Rowen followed as the others got off the court. Jade sat down and Ryo joined her. "First one to twenty points wins?" asked Rowen. "Fair..." replied Kaylee.

The ones on the sidelines watched the game. Kaylee had a natural grace about her, which aided her speed and agility. Both moved about the court, playing seriously.

"She's good." remarked Kento. "More than good, she's great." Kento watched Kaylee scored another point. Kento turned to see if the others were watching.

"Yeah, she's good." said Ryo absentmindedly. Kento saw that Ryo was being distracted by staring at Jade from the corner of his eye. Jade was focused solely on the game.

"Er hm, Ryo... the game's that way." said Kento in amusement. Jade turned and laughed as Ryo grinned sheepishly. He was caught. Time passed and the score was tied at nineteen points. It was Kaylee's ball.

"Give up yet?" asked Kaylee. Rowen looked over his shoulder. His friends shouted their encouragement.

"Nope." replied Rowen. "If I lose, then I lose but at least I tried."

"What a pity." Kaylee said just before she sped around him and dunked the last shot. "You lost." Kaylee tossed the ball back to Rowen and walked coolly off the courts. Jade whistled in admiration as Rowen stared dumbfound at the rolling ball.

"I didn't see that coming." said Jade. Kaylee was fast. She was like the wind itself. Kaylee sat back on the bench and resumed reading her book.

"Still don't believe it, Rowen?" asked Ryo. Kaylee looked at Rowen over the top of her sunglasses. She was also a historian of the ancient armors as a hobby and she knew who they were, she'd seen all the reports.

"Shut your mouth...you'll catch flies." Kaylee remarked, leaving everyone dumbfounded again. Rowen closed with mouth with a snap and glared at the laughing group of friends. Jade walked up and patted his arm reassuringly.

"Females are the superior species. This only proves it." giggled Jade. Ryo came up from behind her and bopped her over the head.

"Hey!" Jade began to chase Ryo around.

"And you are acting like a bunch of children." Kaylee said with no emotion in her voice with her nose back in her book.

"That's what we are." said Jade, stopping. "We're seventeen which makes us children."

Kaylee shrugged, "Well if the kanji fit." Her words left their mouths hanging open again.

"Learn to have some fun, girl!" Jade said, surprised with this girl's seriousness. Ryo walked up behind Jade and finally was able to give her that hug she avoided earlier. Jade squirmed out of it and resumed chasing him. She saw Cye take revenge for her. "Thanks." she called out as Ryo was tackled to the grassy ground by Cye.

"Kids." Kaylee said from behind her book. Jade brushed off the comment since she was a friendly person. Nothing could really make her mad. The boys resumed their game and Jade sat next to Kaylee.

"May I ask the name of the one who kicked Rowen's butt?" Jade asked.

"Kaylee Star." Kaylee answered her.

"Jade Akikou." Jade said. "What book is that?" she inquired.

"A history book." Kaylee said without saying anything more. Jade leaned back and played with her long hair absentmindedly as she watched Ryo.

"History's cool but I prefer science and classical literature." Jade said. Sage walked over, hearing her remark.

"Since when was Star Wars classical literature?" teased Sage.

"Ah shut up, blondie." Jade stuck out her tongue. "At least I read unlike you!"

"He does have a point." Kaylee said, not looking up at the girl.

"Star Wars has been around for thirty plus years, making it classical. It's considered one of the greatest science fiction series in the world." said Jade knowingly.

"You look like someone who doesn't do her schoolwork when she's supposed to."

"No. Actually I do all my work when I get home after school." said Jade seriously.

"Well that one over there looks like has his priorities straight more than you." Kaylee looked at Sage.

Then Kaylee added, "Uh huh...is that while you watch cartoons or while you dance around your room?"

"Neither!" smiled Jade. "It's when I sing along to my music."

"That was my next thought." replied Kaylee wryly.

"But the work gets done, all correct and handed in on time so it's all good." said Jade cheerfully.

"How about you?" asked Sage to Kaylee.

"I don't go to school anymore. I graduated early." Kaylee answered.

"How early?" asked Kento.

"I'm eighteen." replied Kaylee.

"So where you live? We haven't seen you around before." asked Cye.

"I live alone in an apartment complex." Kaylee said simply.

"Downtown Toyama?" asked Jade eagerly, sitting up straight.

"I live in downtown Toyama, yes." nodded Kaylee.

"Cool." Jade said. "I live in the Infinity Complex area in downtown."

"Oh..." Kaylee didn't mention that she lived in the same one. "How nice for you."

Rowen walked over and sat down beside Jade. "So what's with the short answers. Afraid we'll bite?" Rowen asked. Kaylee said nothing still.

"Don't worry. Ryo's had his shots already." said Sage.

"Hn." Kaylee said.

"Hey!" Ryo shouted.

"I'm hungry." declared Kento. "Let's go get some food."

Kaylee had pulled out an apple as he said that and started to eat it casually as she read.

"Yeah! Let's go!" said Cye. "Hey wanna come along?"

"I really don't think I'll be good company." said Kaylee in a emotionless tone.

"I say you let us decide that." smiled Rowen encouragingly.

"As you like." Kaylee got up with that cold grace of hers.

The group waited patiently as Kaylee gathered her stuff and they headed off in search of a good restaurant. She followed quickly because she only had her book and her bag with two apples left in it.

"Where should we go?" asked Ryo. Rowen was carrying the basketball.

"My apartment is close," Kaylee pointed to the Infinity Complex, "but keep HIM," she pointed at Kento, "OUT of my kitchen."

"You're dropping off your stuff?" asked Jade.

"We can grab something there...I'm usually pretty well stocked for one person."

"You live in Infinity too?" asked Jade amazed. "Why haven't I seen you?"

"I try not to be seen." answered Kaylee coldly.

"It's been successful." said Cye.

"Till now." added Sage dryly.

~~~Infinity Complex~~~

The guys were familiar with the Infinity Complex. Jade boarded here since her arrival a month ago from the United States as an exchange student. The apartment complex was huge, housing over a hundred apartments ranging in size. The group walked into the building and Jade unlocked the outer door with her card key and punched in her security access code. Visitors had to call up from the service phone that was mounted on the adjacent wall. Once the group passed through the huge glass door, they walked up the stairs into the empty lobby. The group got into the elevator and Kaylee punched the button for her floor. Jade noticed Kaylee lived nine floors below her. The group exited the elevator once it reached Kaylee's floor. Kaylee led the group to her apartment door and unlocked it with her keys. Kaylee opened the door to her apartment.

"Come in." she gestured. The group walked in and Kaylee followed her, shutting the door behind her. It had two bedrooms, one was an office and the other was her bedroom. There were two recliners, two office chairs and four chairs around the dining room table.

"Hey...it's just the same size as Jade's." said Rowen.

"Infinity Complex offered to house the foreign exchange students from our high school." said Jade.

"Oh." Kaylee entered her spacious kitchen and gets some fruit salad, whipped cream, and pound cake out.

"Yeah, too bad we couldn't exchange Kento for her." laughed Cye.

"Can we help?" asked Kento, ignoring Cye's joke.

"NO...you stay OUT of my kitchen, Kento."

"Can we help then? We minus Kento." asked Ryo.

"Fine. I 'll go out." said Kento.

"Cye can help...I heard he was a good cook. The rest of you just keep Kento out of the kitchen."

"His reputation in cooking club?" asked Rowen in surprise.

"Yeah." said Kaylee after a moment.

"I'll be watching Kento!" said Jade as she walked out after Kento.

Kaylee and the four boys started to make lunch. Jade and Kento remained outside, looking at all the armors that lined Kaylee's walls.

"I remember when Mia told me about Sengoku University before it was destroyed." Jade said, tracing her finger over the armors.

"Yeah. Kaylee's stuff rivals Mia's collection of armors." added Kento. He spotted a ancient looking tetsubo mounted on the wall and his fingers itched to try it out.

"Don't touch anything you're not suppose to." warned Jade, seeing the weapon as well.

"Like you?" Kento tapped her shoulder lightly. "Think Ryo might beat me up?"

"Ha ha. Funny." Jade said sarcastically, walking away from him.

"God...everyone knows so just hook up with him already..." Kento muttered as Jade walked into the kitchen and was immediately shooed back out.

"You're suppose to be watching Kento!" Kaylee said.

"Sorry!" Jade held her hands up in surrender as she was pushed back out.

A half an hour later, a delicious meal was ready. Jade and Kento set on the table. When the group sat down, their mouths were watering at the sight of all the food. Ambrosia fruit salad with coconut on the side. Ramen noodles with three sauces available; garlic butter, sweet and sour, and a meaty spaghetti sauce.

"It's ready." Kaylee said finally as the last dish was placed on the table and she sat down.

"Kento, you eat AFTER everyone else has gotten a serving." ordered Kaylee. Jade poked Kento knowingly as the others smirked.

"It appears Kento's appetite is famous." Jade giggled.

"Alright guys, let's get something to eat before he decides to take it all." said Kaylee. Kaylee grabbed a plate and everyone followed suit. Everyone got their food and piled their plates high with Kaylee's great cooking.

"Now you can eat, Kento." said Kaylee.

"Thanks." Kento said to Kaylee and then again to Jade who served him.

Kaylee made sure everyone was eating before she got up with her full plate in hand. She always dined alone even with guests in her house. It was something she did for the longest time and she was not used to the large crowd. Kaylee went to her desk in her office and began to look over some research she was doing. Soon the meal was finished and everyone thanked Kaylee. They offered to do the dishes in return but Kaylee protested vehemently.

"But I can take care of them MYSELF." Kaylee says trying to shoo them all out of her kitchen. The group firmly shook their heads and all stay inside the kitchen.

"It's only proper." said Cye. "You fed us, we'll clean."

"But...but..." sputtered Kaylee as she saw the others were starting on the dishes.

"Nope." said Ryo. "We'll clean. You, " Ryo gently pushed her outside, "can go work on whatever you were doing at first."

"It's only some research on old armors...it can wait." said Kaylee. "I can do the dishes." She tried to get back into the kitchen again but Kento and Ryo blocked the door as the others washed and dried the dishes. Soon Kaylee saw all the dishes were clean and dried, and put back in the proper place.

"Done!" said Rowen with a flourish. Kaylee just grumbled at him. She goes back to her office...reading something about the Armor of Winds. The group smiled any and exited the kitchen.

"Nice..." The group that had cooked admired as they studied the armors from a safe distance away. "Only Mia has this many." Kaylee saved her spot before she shut down the computer.

"It's a hobby." said Kaylee, walking back out to check up on the group. "I study old armors..."

"My hobby's like Rowen's. Space." said Jade. "And then ancient mythology."

"Oh." Kaylee said. "I don't have an armor, I just research it on my spare time, when I'm not running my web design business."

"Why would you have an armor?" asked a confused and slightly suspicious Rowen. {Enemy?}

"Oh I'm sorry. I misunderstood her statement." said Kaylee quickly.

"Thanks for lunch." said the group. "Are we staying too long? If you have other work you need to do, just tell us and we'll go..." said Kento.

"Hn...no I guess not...people say I need a life." admitted Kaylee. "All I leave my apartment for is to shop or read in the park. But I guess it's my way...which is also why I'm not good company."

"Then we gotta change that!" said Cye cheerfully.

"If you're not busy, you can visit our place." offered Sage.

"Your place?" asked Kaylee. "I don't know. I'd probably get in the way."

"Once again, let us decide that." said Rowen.

"If you wanna go, Jade can drive you," said Sage, "since you both live in the same building."

"I can drive myself, thanks." Kaylee said. The group followed the two girls down to the underground garage. Kayla walked over to her motorcycle and unlocked a sleek motorcycle with a small remote.

"You know our address?" asked Cye. The group watched Kaylee put on a helmet painted with the design of a soaring falcon.

"I'll follow you." said Kaylee firmly.

"We'll go to the park first to get the guys' Jeep." Jade pulled out her car keys and unlocked a black convertible. "There's no way everyone can fit into my car comfortably."

The boys climbed in for the short ride to the park. Kaylee followed them back to the park where the boys had Mia's car. Everyone but Ryo exited the car. Ryo remained sitting in the front passenger seat.

"Ouch... Having Kento's elbow in my back is painful..." winced Rowen. Ryo grinned as he was the lucky one in the front.

"Then you shouldn't have sat next to him." said Kaylee.

"Sorry. It's a small car." apologized Jade. Rowen waved it off and the group got into the Jeep.

"Ryo, you're not coming with us?" asked Rowen. Ryo shook his head and remained in the car.

"Yo, Sage, you go first!" shouted Ryo from his seat. Sage pulled out first, followed by Kaylee and then Jade.

The convertible top was open so Ryo was able to enjoy the wind through his hair as the three vehicles drove away. Kaylee continued to follow them and matched Sage's speed by driving next to him on the road.

"Mia's place is on the outskirts of the city." shouted Sage to Kaylee. Kaylee nodded as the Jeep turned onto another street.

"That girl knows how to race." remarked Jade as she watched Kaylee weave around the red Jeep in front of her.

"You think so?" asked Ryo.

"I can tell by her handling of that motorcycle." Jade reached for her sunglasses. The afternoon sun was starting to blind her. Ryo handed it to her and she thanked him as she put them on.

"She is good." Ryo saw the skill Kaylee had.

"I wonder how well she races." grinned Jade.

"Oh no!" Ryo paled. "You're not racing her with me in this car!"

"Oh c'mon!" Jade turned to him. "You'd enjoy it!"

"No I won't!" Ryo said, panicking. "You're a crazy driver when you race!"

Jade scoffed. "Am not. I'll prove it to you one day."

"Over my dead body." Ryo said hotly. Jade pouted and then decided it was too much trouble to argue with stubborn Ryo. After all, she was the one driving, not him. Jade smirked evilly. Ryo sweatdropped. He knew something was up.

Sage glanced over a few times to make sure Kaylee was ok. He saw Ryo was enjoying himself in Jade's car. Sage pulled off the highway onto the dirt road that led to Mia's mansion. She followed speeding past him.

"I'll beat you just like I did Rowen." Kaylee called out.

Sage, who was a safe driver when with people, shook his head, "Sorry, Mia's car. If I wreck it, she'd kill me."

"I see." Kaylee replied. Sage grinned and let Kaylee drive ahead of him. She pulled up in front of Mia's house kicking up dirt and stopping to face the jeep as it came up. The two vehicles reached Mia's mansion in no time. Sage pulled up and got out after shutting off the engine.

"Where's Jade?" asked Rowen, getting out. The stretch of dirt road was empty.

"She's probably making out with Ryo." Kaylee said with the barest hint of humor.

"Probably." Kento snorted in amusement.

"It's strange. She knows the way here." remarked Cye. "It shouldn't be taking so long."

Suddenly a loud revving noise filled the air. The black speck grew in size as a dust cloud appeared behind the black car.

"Oh dear." said Kaylee as she watched it raced down the road at breakneck speed, braked hard and spun, drifting around the bend to stop in front of the group. They waited for the smoke to clear from the rear tires.

"Yo! Sorry to keep you waiting." said Jade cheerfully. Oval shaped black sunglasses covered her eyes as she hopped out of the car.

"Geez, and I thought you two were making out." said Cye casually. Jade's cheeks turned pink and gave him a hard look.

"They probably were doing both." Kaylee coughed out as the smoke cleared.

"I wish." muttered Ryo to himself shakily. Jade turned and gave him a surprised look. She had heard him. "Do you even know what I just went through?" Ryo asked.

"What'd ya mean?" asked Jade. "That was the most perfect drift! Sage could appreciate it." said Jade "Right?"

"Very good." Sage said. "I see you're learned the technique."

"I could probably drive circles around all of you." said Kaylee.

"You race professionally?" asked Jade. Jade knew she was right. She could read the girl.

"On occasion but not often." answered Kaylee, the pride hidden in her reply.

"Sage still races. I used to back home." said Jade. "We should go to one sometime." Ryo got out of the car, on wobbly legs.

"But not be in one, ok?" Ryo asked the group, holding onto the car. Jade saw the state he was in and took pity on him after her prank. She went around the car and supported him. Ryo had a happy look on his face.

"Let's go inside." said Sage.

Kento nodded and led the group to the front door. He unlocked it and gestured for everyone to go inside. Kaylee entered after everyone. The grand tour of the large mansion was given and the group settled in the living room. Kaylee looked around the place.

"This house is very nice." Kaylee sat down in a comfortable chair. Kaylee started going back to loner mode again. She was never a fun person to begin with. Sage and Cye sat on the sofa. Kento sprawled himself in another large chair. Jade took a place on the love seat and Ryo sat beside her. Just then White Blaze walked in.

"Now THAT'S a big cat." Kaylee raised an eyebrow the tiger.

"Hi Blaze!" greeted Jade cheerfully. The tiger walked over to Ryo and her to be petted before turning to Kaylee.

"Stop looking at me like that, cat." Kaylee said as she pulled out her palm pilot and checked her mail.

"Yup! That's rude White Blaze!" scolded Jade, stroking his fur.

"He's tame." Kaylee listened to the tiger purring deep in his throat.

"Pretty much." said Ryo, watching the pampering his tiger was getting and feeling foolishly jealous.

"Just don't call him Fluffy or you'll make him angry." giggled Jade. "Right, Fluffy?" White Blaze gave her a tiger equivalent of a glare. The tiger growled warningly but he let her off the hook after she continued pampering him. The others watched the tiger and girl with amusement.

"So Kaylee, do you need help on researching that armor of yours?" asked Cye. "Mia's got a lot of books in her library."

Kaylee sighed and had a lost look on her face. "The funny thing is I was always researching history...but this armor was never mentioned until some of the other archeologists found out about it and I overheard them. There is no mention of the armor of Winds which is also called the armor of the Tempest." The others mused on what Kaylee just said.

"Mia has some books you might not have access to." said Kento. "If you ask her, she'll probably let you go through the texts that was in her family for generations."

"If you would ask her for me please." asked Kaylee. She didn't want to ask for something from a stranger.

"Sure!" said Kento. "I'll be back." He exited to Mia's room.

"One unknown armor, huh?" said Sage. "I wonder if there could be more out there."

"I don't know." admitted Kaylee. She waited for Kento to come back with Mia or her books.

Kento returned with a smile, "Mia says ok. So onwards to the library!"

The group got up and headed to the large library in the back of the house. Kaylee walked in and the sight of all the bookshelves made her blood feel like it was on fire. At the first glance, she could tell that Mia Koji had a choice selection at the most ancient and rarest of history texts. Immediately, she began to look through the books.

"This is interesting," said Kaylee as she read, "it says the Tempest armor was created by the Ancient One after he had created the nine Ronin armors."

"Really?" Rowen asked. Ryo and Jade looked up from the book in her hand. Jade was pointing out pictures of old styled clothing she had found funny to Ryo.

"The Ancient One?" asked Ryo.

"I never heard of that before." said Sage. They were treading on dangerous ground now.

"But it sounds cool thought." said Rowen, feigning ignorance. The rest of them were doing the same thing.

"It's the armor I was researching," explained Kaylee, "it says there is a kanji orb for it too...it's called Destiny."

"Whoever the Ancient was, he's in quite a few books." said Kento nonchalantly.

"You should know him blockhead," said Kaylee icily, "you got your armor from him."

With this statement everyone went on the defensive. Everyone except Jade who just raised her eyebrow in surprise.

"And so we find out the truth after all." said Jade wryly. {Who is this girl?}

Ryo stood up in front of Jade to protect her in case of danger and narrowed his eyes. "So who are you really?" asked Ryo suspiciously.

"I told you I research ancient history...more specifically that revolving around the ancient armors." explained Kaylee.

"But the books never said who would get the armors specifically." said Sage. "So what gives?"

"I watch the news..." Kaylee says with a shrug.

"Which never covered the battles." pointed out Kento. "Since everything was dead and no one remembers, that explanation is not going to work."

"I have contacts in the underground..." Kaylee tried again, sounding frustrated at their questions. None of the Ronin Warriors were going to believe her no matter what she say to them. Luckily, it was Jade who came to her rescue.

"Leave the girl alone." said Jade abruptly from behind Ryo. Ryo turned around to look at her in shock.

"But..." Ryo trailed off.

"So what if she knows about the armors? I do!" said Jade hotly.

"Jade!" Sage sighed. {Great...now everything's out in the open.}

"She has a point." said Kento.

"Yes, I know I do." said Jade as she sat down in Mia's desk chair.

"You probably have one too Jade." said Kaylee wryly.

"Please...you have got to be joking!" laughed Jade. "There's nine Ronin armors. Five bearers stand in front of you. Male which rules me out. But you already knew that." Jade smirked. "And the remaining four are also taken. Guess I'm out of luck if I wanted my own armor." shrugged Jade. Ryo gave her a worried look and Jade gave him a crooked smile.

"No. But you're the kind of person that'd do well in a armor." said Kaylee seriously.

"What makes you say that? I'm not exactly noble warrior girl over here." Jade laughed. "But thank you for saying so." Jade smiled. "You're pretty good yourself." she complimented. Kaylee nodded her thanks.

"So it's ok if she knows?" Sage asked suddenly.

"Well whatcha gonna do about it? Tie her up and keep her in the basement to prevent her from telling?" shot back Jade. She saw the looks being exchanged between the boys. "Don't you dare..." Jade growled menacingly. "Or I will kick your ass."

The five boys sweatdropped. Kaylee looked at her wristwatch and sighed.

"Great. I missed my evening martial arts session and now the gym is closed. Where am I going to work out now?"

"We're sorry. It is getting late." Sage got up.

"It's ok. I've enjoyed the company...I don't get many visitors or get invited anywhere." said Kaylee somewhat sadly. She stared at the assembled group of teens.

"I know! We can always spar with you here!" cried Jade. jumping out of Mia's chair.

"I wouldn't want to impose." Kaylee looked at the group in doubt.

"Don't worry! We're tougher than we look!" said Cye. "Ok let's go spar outside!" Kaylee still looked doubtful.

"It'll be ok. I don't do sports but I do like the martial arts." said Jade.

"I don't know. I mean I'd be too much trouble." said Kaylee, unintentionally moving away from them.

"It'd be worth it to find a good opponent." said Ryo. "C'mon."

"Oh alright." Kaylee gave in. She was good fighter. And she was curious at the fighting level the group had. They were the Ronin Warriors, after all.

The group all went outside and gathered behind the house near the lake. The sun was going to set in the skies soon, casting long shadows throughout the forest. The winds were light, blowing stray leaves along the ground. Kaylee felt the wind's caress on her face and through her long hair. She closed her eyes and inhaled the scent of green life. She opened them to see Jade turn to the five boys.

"So who wants to spar with Kaylee?" asked Jade. "Besides me, of course." She grinned. "Come on, who's brave enough?"

"I will." said Ryo, raising his hand.

"Same here." Kento flexed his hands.

"Me too." said Sage.

"So anyone you want to fight first or should we decide?" asked Rowen.

"You can decide." replied Kaylee. It didn't matter who she fought and in what order.

"Ok, So Sage, Kento, Jade, and Ryo?" asked Cye. Kaylee smiled and nodded. She was going to enjoy this.

"Get me a quarterstaff." Kaylee said. "Pick your weapon. I won't fight an unarmed person." ordered Kaylee.

"Then my no dachi." Sage decided. Kento offered to retrieve the desired weapon and soon returned with them.

"Here." Kento handed over the short staff and no dachi. The practice no dachi's blade was dull, not intended to kill.

"Let's do this." Kaylee smiled.

"As you wish." Sage replied and the spar began with his attack.

Kaylee blocked his attacks with ease. Sage was just testing out her defenses before truly attacking. She was protecting herself well with her weapon. Sage increased the force of his attacks and slashed at Kaylee. Kaylee parried it aside and brought her staff upwards. Sage jumped out of the way, the quarterstaff missing him. He spun back around, attacking from behind her. Kaylee raised her arms and blocked the attack as well. She delivered a blow to his chest. The match progressed and Kaylee suffered an attack to her side. Sage had hit her with the flat blade of the no dachi.

Finally, Kaylee disarmed Sage and his weapon landed on the ground. Sage jumped for it, grabbing it to land in a wary defensive stance.

"I wouldn't have attacked you anyway." said Kaylee. "It's dishonorable to fight an unarmed opponent."

"I thank you for your gesture." said Sage.

"Believe me...I have a few honorable traits on me...not many but enough." Kaylee readied herself for Sage's next attack.

"That's good to know." smiled Sage despite himself. "Resume?"

"Resume." Kaylee replied. "I believe it's your move."

Sage bowed to her and started off another attack, this time from the air. Kaylee saw him coming and she brought her staff around intercepting his attack. The staff and no dachi clanged against each other. Sage growled and jumped back out of the way. He moved again and the next attack was not blocked. Kaylee found herself standing in the middle of the field, disarmed with the dull tip of the no dachi at her throat.

"Do you give up?" Sage asked, the fading sunlight unable to light up his face.

Kaylee estimated her weapon was at least ten feet behind Sage. The sword tip was pretty close. "I give up." said Kaylee. Sage removed the sword. Cheers and applause from the audience sounded wonderful to both warriors for that spectacular show.

"Kento's up." said Sage. "Good luck." Sage said as he walked past Kento. Kento grinned at him.

"Get me a whip." said Kaylee gruffly. Sage was a good fighter. She was pleased with the spar even though she lost to him.

"A whip?" asked the group.

"A whip." Kaylee grinned.

"The girl's kinda kinky." remarked Jade. The boys just rolled their eyes. "Oh c'mon." sighed Jade. "Like you weren't thinking the same thing!"

"No we weren't." said Cye exasperated.

"Denial." Jade rolled her eyes this time.

"And a short sword." added Kaylee.

"A whip and a short sword." remarked Kento. "Well, I'm going to use my tetsubo."

"Ok..." Rowen obeyed and walked off towards the house to get her weapons.

"Liking your work-out so far?" asked Cye.

"Yes, I must say I am." nodded Kaylee. She was having... fun? Rowen returned with the two weapons and handed them over to Kaylee. Rowen threw the practice bo over to Kento. The bo was just like his armor weapon except it wasn't as heavy and didn't have the blade on the top. Kento twirled the bo with ease and waited for Kaylee to get ready. Kaylee slid the sword in her belt. She grabbed the whip and snapped it open. The cracking of the whip sounded through the air.

"Ready?" Kaylee asked.

"Yes." Kento replied.

"Begin!" shouted Cye from the sidelines.

Kento watched the snaking whip come at him and he twirled the bo to fend of the attacks. The noise created by the whip and twirling bo were mixed with cheering and shouts of encouragement from the excited audience. The sound of their voices was like adrenaline coursing through Kaylee's system. It spurred her to move faster and strike harder with her whip. Kento found himself on the receiving end of the leather whip. It was all Kento could do to defend himself from the biting leather. Kaylee had her sword out to protect herself as she danced around Kento who was jabbing past her whip to attack her. The tetsubo and sword made contact numerous times. Kento even managed to thrust his tetsubo straight through the twirling whip to knock Kaylee backwards. Kaylee landed and rolled backwards, ending up in crouching position. She pushed off and charged at Kento. One more attack and Kento found the whip snaked around his left leg. Kento was pulled off his feet as Kaylee yanked hard.

"Oof!" Kento had the wind knocked out of his lungs as he landed on the ground. Kaylee appeared with the short sword. Like Sage, she held it close to his throat. She leaned down to wrap the whip's length around his neck like a noose.

"Give?" she asked, tugging gently.

"You are good." growled Kento. He was beat.

"Do you give?" asked Kaylee again.

"That means he gives." said Rowen from a distance.

"Oh. In that case." Kaylee unwrapped the whip from Kento's neck. Kento stood up, rubbing his neck where the leather whip scraped him.

"Jade, I hope you do better." said Kento. Kento gave Kaylee a backward glance. {She really is good.}

"I'll try." said Jade as she passed him, smiling. "You did good yourself though. I've never seen anyone fight so hard before."

"Thanks." Kento grinned.

"So what weapons now?" Jade asked Kaylee.

"That's a tough one...," Kaylee mused, "How about hand to hand since I don't know much about you?"

Jade smiled widely, "I was about to fight you unarmed anyway."

"Then there's no conflict." Kaylee smiled as well.

The two girls faced off and the guys watched in anticipation. Sage had won over Kaylee but Kaylee had defeated Kento.

"Kaylee might beat Jade." said Kento, running his sore neck. Who would win this match?

"I think Jade stands a good chance at winning." said Ryo firmly. "We fought with her before and she was able to beat us when we practiced."

"Biased opinion." teased Rowen. Ryo ignored him.

Kaylee turned towards the colorful sky. The sun was setting now. The fighting had lasted all afternoon. The winds stayed warm even in the evening but much stronger, blowing Kaylee's hair around her face. It rushed past her, whipping her slightly damp clothes.

"It's a nice sunset...wanna do this before or after watching the sunset?" Kaylee asked Jade.

"How about before so we can watch the sunset after our work-out?" answered Jade, glancing at the sunset.

"If there's any sun left...but sure." said Kaylee. The warm rays of the setting sun was fading away fast and the area was dimly lit by now. The girls were shadowed in the dark.

Both girls bowed to each other and simultaneously took a defensive stance. Kaylee saw that she would have to attack first so she charged her. Jade saw her punch coming and grabbed her arm, twisting it around Kaylee's back. Kaylee kicked backwards, knocking Jade's feet from out from under her. Jade landed on the ground and rolled out of the way as Kaylee's fist came at her chest. She stood up a few feet away but Kaylee appeared and grabbed her arm once more to flip her over onto the ground. Jade felt herself being thrown and she twisted her body in mid-air to land on her feet, facing Kaylee. Kaylee's ice blue eyes widened in surprise at Jade's agility and flexibility. Her hold on Jade's arm was broken. Jade back flipped three times and Kaylee watched amazed at the strength Jade had in her for each one her flips covered several feet. When she stopped, Jade was well out of Kaylee's range when she stopped.

"Finally..." Kaylee's grin widened. "A decent match."

"You're fast." laughed Jade. "But I'm much faster."

Before Kaylee knew it, she was on the ground with the wind knocked out her. What she didn't see was Jade rushing her and then delivering two quick jabs and a kick which sent her sprawling on the ground in pain.

"You've managed...to land a blow on me." Kaylee gasped as she stood up. Jade was waiting patiently for her to stand. "I thank you for holding back." Kaylee said as she took a defensive stance once more. Jade gave her a crooked smile.

"And those guys call themselves the Ronin Warriors." Kaylee laughed. The five boys sweatdropped. Jade's half smile bloomed into a full one.

"They try." Jade replied, not taking her eyes off Kaylee. "Shall we finish this?" Kaylee nodded and she took the offensive this time.

The two trade punches and kicks but each girl dodged the other's attacks. Finally, the battle seemed to draw to a conclusion as Kaylee was able to throw Jade onto the ground and hold her hands behind her back.

"Give?" Kaylee asked.

"You think you have me, don't you?" Jade grinned, turing her head to look at Kaylee. "You better think again!" With unnatural strength, she broke out of Kaylee's vice like grip and tossed Kaylee onto the ground. Kaylee got up from the ground quickly and found two manicured fingers at her throat and her arms pinned down to her sides.

"Surrender?" Jade asked.

"Don't know the word." Kaylee broke out of Jade's grip and spun around her. Kaylee punched and Jade blocked, both getting closer and closer until both shot out their left hands to grab the other's right arm, twisting their right arms behind their backs. Both girls were trapped since both right hands were disabled by the other's left and their legs were locked for balance.

"This is a surprise." Jade said, her voice sounding raspy. She felt Kaylee's shaking body as Kaylee held her struggling right arm still.

"It certainly is." Kaylee said, hearing Jade's breath come in suppressed gulps.

"Are you two ok?" asked a worried Cye.

"We're fine!" replied Jade. "Right?"

"Perfectly." answered Kaylee. The five boys watched the two trapped girls.

"I wonder how long this is going to take." Kento remarked. The girls weren't moving at all since neither were going to surrender to the other.

"Kaylee? Jade?" asked Ryo tentatively. Rowen waited patiently. The two girls knew they weren't getting anywhere.

"We're missing the sunset." said Jade, nodding her head towards the skies.

"Ah well...wanna just call it even?" Kaylee asked with a slight smile.

"Ok." Jade smiled warmly. "Even."

"Even." repeated Kaylee. Both girls released their holds on each other. Jade turned and held out her hand for a shake. Kaylee shook Jade's hand and they both smiled warmly at each other.

"Besides I still have Ryo to battle...and that HAS to be good right?" asked Kaylee. Jade laughed good-naturedly.

"I'll be lucky to break even with him." Kaylee let out another small grin. The two girls smiled at each other, and Ryo walked up.

"That was a good fight." Ryo said.

"She's good, Ryo." said Kaylee with admiration. "She's going to get an armor. I know she will."

Jade smiled brightly but her violet eyes showed sadness, "I'm not quite sure I want one." Jade walked away and left Ryo there in her place.

"Feh, doesn't she know that those who don't want it the most are those who will definitely get things like that?" Kaylee asked herself. Ryo started when Kaylee walked away from him. She walked to the lake to watch the sunset.

"It's so beautiful out here...much better than that apartment of mine." Kaylee stood out on the pier. "I'll be ready in a moment." Kaylee said absentmindedly. The others gathered behind her on the pier to watch the the sun go below the horizon.

"It is pretty." said Jade. "I wish I could touch it." Jade said wistfully, holding out her hand to grasp at the sun.

Ryo smiled at her innocence and wrapped his arms around her waist. Jade was startled out of her thoughts and hastily broke free. The others sympathized with the crestfallen Ryo and the blushing Jade. Finally, the last of the sun disappeared and twilight settled over them.

Kaylee turned to face the group. "I'm ready." she said seriously. Everyone walked back off the wooden pier. Kaylee came to stand across from Ryo.

"Two katanas please, someone." Kaylee said to the others.

"Sure!" Jade ran to get them. She returned with two pairs of practice katanas.

Like Sage's practice no dachi, the blades were dull and so were the tip of the blade. "Here ya go." She handed them over to Kaylee.

"Thank you." smiled Kaylee. She turned to speak to Ryo. "I believe this is going to be interesting, Ryo."

"Why?" asked a curious Ryo.

"I wasn't kidding when I said I'd be surprised if I broke even with you." Kaylee explained. "I'm not as good with swords as I am with anything else."

"Really? After what I've just witnessed, I'm surprised." said Ryo, taking his katanas from Jade. He noticed Jade avoided looking at his face.

"Most of that was luck and paying attention to the way a person's body is...thinking of the attack before it comes and finding the quickest way to counter it." lectured Kaylee.

"You really are a true warrior then." Ryo said, facing her with his weapons ready. "I can't wait to see how well you fight against me. Begin on your word." said Ryo.

"Begin." Kaylee went into a defensive stance. Ryo sees her stance and attacked, bearing both swords down at her from a horizontal angle. The two swords swished through the air as they sliced at Kaylee. Kaylee blocked easily. Ryo pulled back and waited for an attack. Kaylee jumped in the air, a rather high jump, and came down with both swords. Ryo deflected her attack easily since it was one he used often and he knew the weaknesses of it. Ryo shifted his footing, sending a flurry of slashes at Kaylee who blocked most of them but a few managed to get through. The blows didn't cut her skin but left a red welt where it would remain for a day or two. Ryo jumped up, higher than Kaylee did before, and landed behind her to trip her with his feet. Kaylee dropped to the ground, losing her katanas in the dark.

"Shit!" Kaylee cursed. Ryo was moving around her, now behind her. She heard him stop moving.

"Ryo?" asked Jade in confusion. The five watched Ryo walk around the clearing.

"What are you doing, buddy?" asked Kento. Ryo smiled and picked something up, two objects. Kaylee was about to pick herself off the ground when her vision was filled with her weapons.

"What?" Kaylee looked up and saw a smiling Ryo.

"Your weapons." Ryo said, offering Kaylee her katanas.

"Thank you." Kaylee took them graciously. "But you might regret that."

"Fighting a unarmed opponent is dishonorable. You said so yourself." said Ryo. Kaylee smiled. Applause from the audience made both fighters look their way.

"Nice move!" cheered Kento. Ryo grinned sheepishly.

The fight resumed as the four katanas battled against each other. Kaylee got back her weapons once and she swore she wasn't going to lose them a second time. Ryo's arms shook from the impact of Kaylee's katanas as he deflected them. He gasped as both katanas broke through to deliver two long slashes on his chest and then Kaylee spun around to deliver two more on his back. Ryo winced as he knew those would turn red later. Ryo tried to retaliate but Kaylee had dodged his charge and tripped him so he fell on the ground landing on his back. Before Ryo could move, Kaylee had disarmed him and was holding her first sword at his throat, her second in rather low blow area.

"Give?" Kaylee asked. Ryo stared at the sharp sword and sensed where the other was based on his friends' derisive laughter. "Yes, I believe I will." said Ryo meekly.

"Smart man." Kaylee said, laughing really loud this time as she withdrew both swords. The others watch in amazement as she doubled over laughing. She tried to speak between her gasps for air and laughter. "That's good...ha ha...because...haha...I don't know how much longer...I could have held those..there without...hahahahaha...cracking up!" Ryo paled as he heard that.

"Yup, because it'd be a shame if something happened to Ryo's little buddy." laughed Kento. Kento's joke made everyone succumb to the contagious laughter, even Kaylee who was displaying one of her are of moment of actual laughter. Ryo stood amid the laughing group, his face turning as red as the Wildfire armor. Jade cracked up at Ryo's face and collapsed on the ground in a fit of uncontrollable giggles. Kaylee crawled over to Jade and help her get on her feet. Each stood up, supporting the other girl.

"For Ryo or for Jade?" asked Sage, laughing.

"That...was so...funny!" Kaylee laughed, clapping Jade on her back at Kento's and Sage's remarks. Jade leaned on Kaylee for strength but summon enough energy to shout a retort at Sage.

"Oh shut up Sage!" Jade shouted, turning red. She nodded thanks to Kaylee and the girls stood up, still laughing a bit.

"Erm..haha...erm that was kinda fun." said Kaylee, calming down.

The group smiled, feeling they had accomplished something wonderful. Getting Kaylee to laugh.

Night settled over the group as they stood around.

"So...er can I stay here tonight with you all?" asked Kaylee timidly.

"Oh definitely!" said Jade.

"Thanks." said Kaylee. "I appreciate it...as long as I get a bed."

"Don't worry. There's an extra room on the second floor." said Ryo.

"Let's go back in and get everything set up for your stay." said Cye.

"Thanks guys." Kaylee was relieved that they said yes. The entire day had been wonderful. The group was so welcoming towards her.

"You're welcome." said Cye. "Should we go?" Everyone nodded.

"Help me with the weapons." Kento said as he gathered all the weapons they used in today's spar. Kento picked up the tetsubo and hefted it over his shoulder.

Kaylee found the whip, quarterstaff, and short sword. Jade and Ryo took the four katanas and Sage took his no dachi. The group headed back inside and found Mia walking out from the kitchen.

"Hey, Mia? Can Kaylee and I sleep over today?" asked Jade. "Please?"

"Sure, you can sleep over." said Mia. "I'll get out the sheets and pillows."

"Thanks Mia, and thanks for the use of your library." said Kaylee. She felt she was in debt to Mia's generosity.

Mia smiled warmly at the girl. "You're welcome. I'm glad I could be of help." said Mia. "This place is turning into a hotel at the rate it's going. I'll show you to your room."

Kaylee was led upstairs into a guest bedroom. It was found in the end of the hall, hidden snugly by itself a bit further away from the closest bedroom which was another guest bedroom. This room was used by Jade when she stayed over. Beside her room was Ryo's, then Rowen's and Sage's. Across the hall was Kento's and Cye's. Mia's bedroom was closest to the staircase. The guys returned with clean sheets, pillows, and blankets.

"I'm surprised they're so helpful Mia." remarked Kaylee as Ryo, Rowen, and Kento were fixing the two guest rooms for the two girls.

Mia smiled, "It must be all for you girls." Mia watched the guys fix the room for their guests, "They're trying hard, aren't they?"

"Yes very hard..." agreed Kaylee.

"Yup. It is amazing." Jade appeared from behind them. Soon everything was fixed to the girls' liking and Mia told the group the most welcomed words they could ever heard in the world.

"Dinner's ready."

"Yay!" cheered Jade. Kaylee watched the excited younger girl. The group went downstairs to the dining room. Kaylee saw the table was laden with steaming dishes. Kaylee had to admit, it all looked great. She probably had an appetite that could rivaled Kento's tonight.

"It looks great Cye." Kaylee complimented.

Cye smiled, "Thanks but I can't take credit this time. It was all Mia before we returned."

"Oh thank you Mia." Kaylee turned to the older woman. "It looks delicious."

"Well, prove it to me. Eat!" laughed Mia as she gestured for her guests to take a seat.

On the table was a variety of dishes. everyone eat heartily, savoring every morsel. There would be more leftovers tonight. The dinner conversation revolved around the day's activities. They described the basketball game between the boys and the one between Rowen and Kaylee. Mia complimented Kaylee on her skills on the court since Rowen was a very good player. Mia was curious about the research Kaylee had found out in her library. The boys and Jade told Mia that Kaylee also knew of the existence of the Ronin Warriors and Warlords. Mia was surprised and asked numerous questions. Kaylee explained it a tiny portion of it since she was a very secretive person. The conversation sifted from the armors to the spar match and then to Kaylee's personal life. By the time dinner ended, the group felt much closer. Dinner ended and everyone was happy.

After dinner, Sage, Cye, Kento, and Rowen stayed in the living room to watch some television. Ryo and Jade disappeared upstairs together. Mia went into her room to study. Rowen looked up in surprise as Kaylee walked through the living room and exited through the front door. Rowen settled back to watch the television but could no longer concentrate. He got up from his chair.

"Rowen?" Kento asked. "Where are you going?"

"Out for a walk." Rowen replied as he put on his shoes and left the house as well. Kento shrugged and resumed watching the televisions.

"Rowen?" Jade called out, coming down the stairs. "Hey Rowen?"

"Rowen went out!" Kento answered.

"Oh ok." Jade stopped on the bottom step. "Well, I'm going to borrow his telescope so if you see him, tell him for me?"

"Sure." said Kento. Sage turned towards her.

"You're not going on the roof again, are you?" he asked suspiciously.

"What makes you think that?" Jade asked innocently.

"Mia doesn't like when you climb onto the roof." Sage said sternly.

"Then don't tell her, Sage." Jade grinned mischievously before she went to Rowen's room.

"Geez, she's like a freaking monkey..." muttered Sage. Cye and Kento chuckled. Jade did have a tendency to climb things. Lately, the roof had been her desired choice to scale.

Kaylee went back out to the lake to sit on the pier. Kaylee gazed out over the lake and threw a stone skipping it lost in her own thoughts. As Kaylee stood on the wooden boardwalk, Rowen approached her from behind.

"Kaylee?" asked Rowen tentatively.

"Yes?"

"Can I join you?" asked Rowen softly.

"Sure it's a free pier." Kaylee replied distractedly, looking out over the water. Rowen sat down beside her and they remained quiet for a few minutes.

"Today was fun." started off Rowen.

"Even though I kicked your butt?"

"Even so." said Rowen, his smile could be heard in his voice.

"I'm surprised at that." Kaylee was amused.

"Losing one game of basketball wasn't too bad." said Rowen.

"True...I guess that's true." admitted Kaylee slowly.

"So...what's your plans for tomorrow?" Rowen asked.

"Nothing really I guess." said Kaylee, somewhat sadly.

"Then how about spending the day with us?" asked Rowen.

"I don't know...I am bad company." Kaylee sighed.

"Why do you keep saying that?" asked Rowen in exasperation. "If you kept thinking that will, you will be. But you're not. Really you're not."

"Thanks Rowen." Kaylee said softly. She looked at Rowen. {His eyes...}

"So it's settled then." Rowen smiled happily. He was glad he could spend more time with her. "You tired?" asked Rowen. His watch told him it was getting pretty late in the evening.

"I am a little sore from all the fighting." admitted Kaylee. "I'm pretty sure there's bruises."

"Really? Here?" Rowen asked as he rubbed Kaylee's neck.

"Mmmm...yes...mmm." Kaylee sighed in contentment as Rowen's strong hands massaged the kinks and soreness out of Kaylee's neck and upper back.

"Why didn't you fight me, Rowen?" asked Kaylee.

"Maybe I didn't want my butt to be kicked twice in one day?" laughed Rowen.

"No seriously." Kaylee turned to look at him. Rowen was silent as he processed her question.

"I don't know." Rowen admitted. "It' strange but I feel like I can't fight you. Like I'm not suppose to or it's not right to." shrugged Rowen. Kaylee stared at him after hearing his answer. Rowen turned pink. "It's silly. I know. Just forget it." he mumbled.

"No...I won't." Kaylee gave him a rare smile. "Thanks for being honest. Honesty is very important to me."

"Then you're welcome." Rowen replied. "I'm sure everyone's sorry for hurting you if they knew about this." said Rowen quietly.

"Yeah I know." Kaylee said. "I'm not holding it against them."

"I'm glad." Rowen said. "It'll make them feel guilty."

"This is nothing." Kaylee said, enjoying the coolness of Rowen's hands. "I've got worse bruises learning martial arts."

Rowen laughed softly as he rubbed Kaylee's back. "It's a shame you had no one back then to do this."

"It sure is..." Kaylee murmured. She dropped her head and closed her eyes. The rhythmic motions of Rowen's hands was relaxing her body.

~~~Roof of Koji residence~~~

Jade and Ryo were sitting on the roof after Jade borrowed Rowen's telescope. Her obsession with space made her Rowen's best pupil in astrology. Rowen was glad someone else shared his interest and had showed Jade where the constellations were in relation to Japan. Whenever she slept over at their house, Rowen and her could usually be found someplace high with Rowen's telescope. Lately, Ryo had been joining the two on their nightly excursions but tonight Rowen had mysteriously disappeared so it was only Ryo and Jade.

"See that?" Jade asked Ryo.

"No." Ryo replied after a few moments. Ryo moved away from the eyepiece.

"You don't?" Jade frowned and looked through the telescope. She adjusted it and night sky came into sharper focus. "Try again." Ryo obeyed and was able to see a comet streak through the sky.

"Yeah I see it now." he said excitedly.

"Good." Jade said happily. She leaned backwards and laid down on the slanted roof. She heard Ryo lay down beside her.

"So what do you think about Kaylee?" asked Jade.

"She seems nice." Ryo replied, looking straight up.

"I feel strange when I'm around her." Jade said softly.

"What do you mean?"

"I dunno." Jade sighed. "Hey Ryo?"

"Huh?" Ryo turned to look at Jade.

"How do you think Kaylee knew you guys were the Ronin Warriors?"

"She said she had underground informants, right? I guess that way." Ryo answered.

"I dunno." Jade said. "It's so coincidental."

"What is?" Ryo asked worriedly. Jade remained silent lost in her thoughts. {Why do I have this strange feeling I know Kaylee? Or was I meant to know her? Meeting Kaylee and her coming into my life feels so strange. Like it was... destined. It'ss the exact same feeling I had when I saw the guys. Why did I choose to come to Japan? Was I sent here?}

"I've never seen you this serious before." Ryo's voice broke Jade out of her thoughts.

"What?" Jade asked distractedly. She turned to see Ryo's face close to her own. {His eyes are such a beautiful blue...} Jade felt her face flush. She sat up quickly. {No...I can't...} Ryo sat up too, confused about what just had happened. He watched Jade play around the telescope.

"Whoa..." she murmured.

"What?" Ryo asked, coming closer.

"I can see Rowen on the pier." giggled Jade.

"Oh. So?"

"He's not alone." laughed Jade. Ryo became curious and Jade gestured him to look as well. Ryo peered through the eyepiece and saw Rowen and Kaylee sitting and chatting. Then Rowen was giving what was unmistakably a massage to Kaylee.

"Go Rowen." said Ryo. "This is interesting."

"Better than stars?" Jade teased him.

"Maybe." Ryo laughed softly. "But it's not right to spy on them." He moved the telescope away from the pier.

"Such a honorable man." Jade teased. "It's about time Rowen made his move." smirked Jade. "I hate it when guys just let their feelings eat at them by dragging everything out unnecessarily." said Jade.

"Really?" asked Ryo slowly. Ryo's eyes looked hopeful.

"Really." said Jade firmly. "Ryo?" Jade asked unsurely. "What are-" Jade was cut off as Ryo leaned in to kiss her.

Ryo wrapped his arms around Jade's waist and deepened the kiss. {I guess it was time I made my move.}

~~~Pier~~~

A few minutes passed as Rowen gave Kaylee a back rub.

"Mmmm that feels so good."

"That's good." Rowen said, "We don't want you to be too sore to have fun tomorrow." Kaylee only smiled.

"Hey guys?" shouted Kento coming up from behind them. Kaylee jumped and Rowen grabbed onto her arms to calm her down.

"What?" wondered Kaylee.

"Kento." muttered Rowen.

"Yeah, me." said Kento. "Mia wants to know if you plan on sleeping on the pier tonight." Kento grinned at the both teens. "We're getting ready for bed and she's locking the house down." Rowen and Kaylee looked at him blankly. "So are you coming or not?" asked Kento.

Rowen looked at Kaylee and smiled. "Time to turn in."

"Yeah I guess we better...thank you." said Kaylee. Rowen stood up and offered a hand to Kaylee. Kaylee took his hand. Rowen pulled her up to help her on to her feet.

"Let's go." said Kento. "We're going to get locked out."

The group walked back to the house. They passed by the balcony and Kento paused.

"What's going on?" asked Rowen.

"Hey, shouldn't you be off the roof by now?" shouted Kento. Loud cursing mixed filled the air as an answer.

"Thanks alot, Kento!" shouted Ryo annoyed as he leaned over the side.

"He's going to fall one of these days and land on his head." said Rowen.

"Maybe it'll make him smarter." muttered Kento.

"There is that." laughed Kaylee.

"I heard that, Kento!" shouted Ryo.

"Ryo, get off the roof!" Mia appeared right below him on the balcony.

"Do I have to?" asked Ryo.

"It's a guy thing Mia." shouted Kaylee.

"Ok." Ryo turned around and grabbed the roof to flipped onto the balcony next to Mia. "There!" Ryo grinned in the light of the room.

"Nice flip." complimented Kaylee.

"Thanks!" Ryo was pleased.

"She's still up there!" shouted Kento from below Mia and Ryo.

"Oh true." murmured Kaylee as one more person was hiding on the roof.

"That means you too, Jade!" Mia rolled her eyes.

"Damn..." Jade's voice muttered. "Hi Mia!" Jade stuck her head over to smile at Mia.

"Off right now." Mia ordered.

"If she doesn't come I'll get her." offered Kaylee.

"But the stars!" Jade whined.

"They are pretty NOW COME DOWN!" Kaylee shouted. Jade sat back up to see the three on the ground. "Or must I bring you down?"

"Ok I'm coming down! Just hang on while I get Rowen's telescope." Jade stood up and went back for Rowen's telescope. She came back and handed it down to Ryo before she copied Ryo's flip back onto the balcony.

"Jade! What if you fell off and broke your arm?" scolded Mia.

"I'm fine, Mia." reassured Jade. "I've got great balance."

"I don't care! What if you get sick from the night air? Are you sick?" asked a worried Mia. Everyone could see that Jade's face was slightly flushed. She squirmed uncomfortably under everyone's scrutinizing looks.

"No, I'm not sick." she answered softly.

"Nothing happened." Ryo reassured Mia who was giving Jade a disapproving look.

Jade glanced at him and bit back a reply and smile. {Liar.} Jade saw Mia accept Ryo's explanation.

"Come inside already!" called out Ryo to the three outside.

The three entered the house and Kento locked the doors and windows downstairs.

"Hey," said Sage coming down. "Rowen, did you know Meesa and Ryo was on the roof with your telescope?"

"Yeah. So?" asked Rowen.

"I don't think they were looking at the stars." smirked Sage.

"If they were eavesdropping on us they are so in trouble..." growled Kaylee.

Sage laughed, "I don't think they can hear that well. I meant the other thing they could be doing..."

"What other thing, Sage?" asked Jade, walking down after him.

Sage sweatdropped, "Never mind."

"I don't want to know." Kaylee said shaking her head

"Thought so." said Jade. "Mia says for us to go to bed like good boys and girls."

"Good little boys and girls? In this house?" scoffed Kaylee. Jade snickered as well.

"So would the good boys stay in their own rooms tonight and not wander about?" asked Jade innocently to Sage.

Kaylee snickered as Sage glared at Jade.

"Funny. Very funny." replied Sage, going back upstairs.

"Feel free to lock your door." warned Jade jokingly.

"Actually the one that should be worried is Ryo...worried about finding you in his bed." teased Kaylee. She laughed as Jade turned pink.

"What gives you that idea?" Jade squeaked out. "We're not even dating!"

"RIIIIIIIIIIIIIIGHT." teased Kaylee, giving her a unbelieving look.

"Actually they're not which is a shame." said Rowen. "I mean we all know they've got the hots-umph!" Rowen doubled over as he was elbowed not so lightly in the stomach by Jade.

"I'm going to bed now." said Jade forcefully as Rowen gasped for air. "Good night."

"Good night for you indeed." Kaylee said with a smirk going up to her room and shutting the door locking it

Jade and Rowen returned to their rooms talking as they walked, or rather arguing.

"Did you tell her something, Ro?" accused Jade. "We all know that there's nothing going on between me and Ryo..."

"Yeah, we know we know." grumbled Rowen. But his mood lightened and he began to tease Jade again. "But you make such a great couple and think of how cute your kids would look like!"

"You want to be elbowed again, don't you?" asked an annoyed Jade.

"God no!" Rowen said quickly. "I'll explain it to her later." Rowen reassured Jade.

"Thanks. Good night."

The rest of the doors shut with calls of "good night." The dark house was silent as the moon rose higher in the skies. Kaylee dreamt that night. She wasn't the only one having strange dreams in that house. Two others were tossing and turning in their beds. Kaylee dreamt about a battle. A battle where she had almost died.

The sunlight coming in from the window pulled Kaylee from her dreams. She woke up as the shafts of sunlight fell across her rumpled blankets.

"Weird..." Kaylee murmured as she sat up in bed. As she got up, she heard footsteps from the other side of the door as people passed by.

"Where's Sage?" asked Kento. Kaylee walked to the door and opened it to poke her head out.

"What happened to Sage?" she asked worriedly.

"He just went out. Meditating." replied Ryo.

"Sounds like him." Kaylee remarked as Rowen joined them.

"He woke up early." said Rowen. "He told me he had a strange dream so he wanted to figure it out."

"Really? Hm...that is strange." mused Ryo.

"Why?" asked Kento.

"Jade wasn't..." Ryo stopped. "Never mind. It's probably nothing." Ryo laughed it off.

Kaylee walked back inside her room to change. She brushed her hair quickly and grabbed her book before she went out.

"Going for a walk." she told the guys as she left the house.

"Okay." said Ryo. "Is it me or is everyone acting strange today?" asked Ryo to Rowen.

"Hn." Rowen saw Kaylee walk behind the house and into the forest.

Kaylee went to see Sage in private. She found by him sitting on a rock under a tall tree near the small waterfall deep in the forest. Sage looked up at her arrival. He was expecting her.

"Sage...had any dreams lately?" Kaylee said abruptly.

"I can ask you the same thing." said Sage.

"Yes you could...but I'm not the kind that has dreams." Kaylee lied. "What did you dream about?"

Sage was silent before speaking. "A large battlefield. Broken armors, empty and mangled. Nine familiar ones on the ground twisted like the others. One unfamiliar one, whole and standing. A strange light in the sky." finished Sage.

"What do you think it means?" asked a slightly frightened Kaylee. {It was so similar!}

"I don't know for sure." admitted Sage. "But nine armors defeated and will that one save them? Or would that strange light destroy them?"

Kaylee brought out the book, showing her the only picture of the Tempest armor. "Did that armor...look like this?" she asked.

The book showed a indigo blue armor bearing a whip with a collapsible quarterstaff at its side and a short sword in a small sheath. Sage studied the armor carefully and gasped, "This was it..."

"That is the armor I've been studying." Kaylee said, "The Tempest armor that was created at a separate time by the Ancient!"

"The armor in my dreams..." Sage murmured. "It had a bearer already."

"What are you talking about?" Kaylee's eyes had widened.

Sage sighed, "I just had this feeling that a person was already wearing the armor. I couldn't see but I knew it somehow. Meaning it might find it's bearer soon."

"So how would you know if it found a bearer?" asked Kaylee desperately.

"Had any weird dreams lately?" asked Sage. "When I got mine, I knew somehow beforehand what was going to happen."

Kaylee backed up a step as Sage continued talking. "Call it destiny." said Sage. Kaylee backs up another step.

"No...it can't be..." Kaylee whispered. Sage looked up as the retreating Kaylee.

"What's wrong?" He stands up quickly.

"It was just a dream." Kaylee whispered to herself.

"Dream?" repeated Sage. Kaylee says nothing. "What was?" asked Sage. Sage sees the disturbed look on Kaylee's face and backed off. "I'm sure whatever it was, it was nothing." Sage said. "It was just a dream. Nothing more."

"Yeah...nothing..." Kaylee said.

"Let's go back inside." Sage lead Kaylee towards the house.

Their footsteps faded away before Jade dared moved. Leaves rustled and broke off from the tree limbs. Jade was perched on a strong limb, high above the ground. She had seen and heard everything that just happened between Sage and Kaylee. She hadn't meant to spy on them. She was there first but Sage arrived and then Kaylee. She was going to say something but then Kaylee had said, "Tempest armor." And that name changed everything.

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Symbols:
<> Flashbacks
[ ] Visions/Dreams
{}Thoughts
" " speech
~~~ ~~~Time/Scene changes
* * Actions/Sound Effects