[GRIT] Megumi no Gaiden 

A Compilation

Edited by :    maramala  (with additional material)
Email posts :  o_animaniac_o@my-dejanews.com, seiichiro_k@my-dejanews.com, 
               schimmel@blue.seas.upenn.edu, maramala@geocities.com
Date Began :   1998/11/18
Date Ended :   1999/01/05  
Forums :       rec.arts.anime.misc 
  

Continuity:  This occurs at the same time as the events during the 
posts in "The One to Carry On (Revised) 3" thread.


 

---  Outside Mystic Manor

(A young man dressed in a dark trenchcoat looked up at the 
thunder-and-lightning effects covered building.  Taking off his 
rather battered fedora, Adjentes Signus Megido assumes his Persona 
as the independent financial consultant and international real 
estate developer Sigmund Ender of Last Enterprises.  A crooked 
grin forms at the side of his mouth next to a lighted cigarette 
as he contemplates a thought forming in his mind.)  
 
Signus:  (aloud, to no one in particular)  Tenkawa Megumi.
 
(He flicks the cigarette to the side, and mutters a word.  The 
cigarette immediately bursts into flame, quickly disintegrating 
into dust.  He walks towards the Manor, determination etched 
deeply in his eyes.)
  

---  Upstairs, Training Room, Mystic Manor
 
(Most of the work-out equipment in the training room has been 
moved aside.  In the middle of the room was a sparring mat, 
where the two current occupants of the room are facing off.)  

(Nezumi Hatsuka, "sister" of the wandering ex-monk Jingai Kanzaki, 
is watching her opponent Megumi Tenkawa's every move.  Both of 
them were in identical stances, circling around as they both look 
for an opening from each other.)  

(Megumi, in an attempt to make Nezumi drop her guard, attacks first, 
charging forward at the younger girl.)  

Megumi:  KIYAA!!!
 
(Nezumi sees Megumi heading to her right, and she tensed as she 
weaved to her left on the balls of her feet.)  

(Seeing her move, Megumi turns around in mid-rush, raising her right 
foot to meet her.) 

(Nezumi bends her knees and ducks from the crescent kick from 
Megumi.  From there she goes to a crouch and does a slide kick 
aiming at Megumi's legs.)
  
Nezumi:  HAII!!!

Megumi:  (hops upwards, dodging the foot)  HUP!  (then brings down 
both her fists clenched in a double hammer blow)  HA!

(Nezumi quickly brings up her arms, blocking Megumi's attack.)

Nezumi:  A!!!  (pushes away)  EEEII...
 
(Nezumi's hands begin glowing.)
 
Megumi:  Hey!  (leaps away)
 
Nezumi:  ...HA!  (fires off several generic ki blasts)

(Megumi dodges all of Nezumi's projectile attacks.)

Megumi:  I thought we weren't using ki today?

Nezumi:  ^_^;;;  Sorry...  got carried away.

Megumi:  Why you,  (grins at a thought)  dirty RAT!

Nezumi:  (drops her guard)  >_<  HEY!  TAKE THAT BACK!

Megumi:  Hah!  ^_^  GOTCHA!  (charges)  CHI KNUCKLE!

(Nezumi was caught off-guard, and Megumi's punch connected.)

Nezumi:  Ooff...

(As Nezumi staggers back, Megumi quickly follows it up with...)  
  
Megumi:  CHI...  BURST!

Nezumi:  O_O

(A ball of ki energy forms at Megumi's fist, and explodes on impact 
with Nezumi's chest.  Nezumi was thrown off a good ten feet away, 
her shirt torn in places.  Megumi widens her eyes in shock.)

Megumi:  (gasps)  Oh, no...  What have I done...  NEZUMI-CHAN!

(Trembling a little, Nezumi picks herself off the ground, fixing 
the shredded front of the loose shirt she wore for her exercise.)

Nezumi:  Owww...  (shakes her head to clear it)  I'm alright.  
(thinks) If I haven't formed the ki shield on my front in time...  
(aloud)  You've really improved, Megumi-chan.

Megumi:  Thanks.  ^_^  I really owe you a lot, Nezumi-chan.  (puts 
her hand on Nezumi's shoulder)  These sparring sessions really 
help me a lot to improve.

Nezumi:  Oh, it's nothing.  (shrugs)  I've got nothing else to do 
anyways...  So, how's it go between you two?  

Megumi:  Nani?  

Nezumi:  You know... 

(Nezumi raises her left hand clenched except for her little finger, 
which she wiggles suggestively at Megumi.)  

Nezumi:  ..._this_?

Megumi:  (sweatdrops profusely)  Anou...  I'd rather not talk about 
that...  How about you?  

Nezumi:  (face falling)  Jingai's not back yet.  

(Sighing, Nezumi gently holds on to Megumi's arm as she laid the 
side of her head on the hand on her shoulder.)  

Nezumi:  We're so unlucky.  (sighs)  

Megumi:  (sighs)  I know how you feel.

Feathers:  (entering)  Miss Megumi...  

(The two girls immediately back away in reflex.  Nezumi quickly 
turns around to hide her blush, while Megumi nervously wipes 
the sweat from her forehead.)

Feathers:  (looks around)  ...Oh, my.  (covers her mouth with 
her hand)  What happened here?

Megumi:  We were just practicing.  (scratches head in embarassment)

Nezumi:  ^_^;;;

(Feathers smiles back at the two girls, although a sweatdrop can 
be seen forming at the back of her head.)

Feathers:  Oh, I see.  I guess I'll be sending Leo here afterwards 
then.  

Nezumi:  Hey, I'll help too!  ^_^

Feathers:  Very well, you do that...  By the way, Megumi, there's 
someone downstairs looking for you.

Megumi:  Oh?  Who could it be?

Feathers:  What will I tell the nice young man?

Megumi:  I'll be downstairs after I change.

 
---  Lobby, Mystic Manor

(A short while later, Megumi went downstairs, having changed to her 
usual casual dress.  She froze in surprise as she saw who was 
downstairs waiting for her.)

Megumi:  You?!?

Signus:  Hello, Megumi...  (smiles)  It's been a while.
  
Megumi:  Uhm...  Mister Ender...  Why are you, er, I mean...
(catches herself) what are you doing here?

Uhm:  (passes by)  He's Sigmund Ender.  I'm not.
 
Megumi:     

Signus:  ...

Uhm:  Fine.  I'm leaving.  (leaves)
 
Signus:  (clearing his throat)  Well, Miss Megumi, I was just in the 
neighborhood, and knowing that you are here, I decided on a whim to 
drop by for a visit, to see if you are fine.

Megumi:  Oh.  Thanks for the concern, but I'm all right.

Signus:  Are you?  Really?

Megumi:  ...  Yes.

Signus:  (thoughtful)  I see...  So where is Seiichiro now?

Megumi:  Seii...  oh, you mean Ryuu?  He's... out.

Signus:  Uh, Miss Megumi...  (hesitant)  I would like to ask of 
you something.

Megumi:  Hai?

Signus:  Would you...  have lunch with me out today?

(Taken aback, Megumi was at a loss for words.)

Signus:  ...So, how about it?
  
Megumi:  (pauses, thoughtful)  I...  I don't know...  It's all so  
sudden...  and it's a bit late for lunch now.
  
Signus:  Come on...  just a little bite to eat out, then a little 
talk.  It's not like we're on a date, or something.

Megumi:  (briefly blushes a bit)  But...  Ryuu...

Signus:  (shrugs)  We could wait for him.

(Signus grimaces as his stomach begins growling.)

Megumi:  O_o

Signus:  Erg...  (flinches)  I guess I'm human after all.  I haven't 
eaten anything today yet.  (slightly embarassed)  

(Megumi smiles at Signus' attempt for humor.)

Signus:  ^_^;;;  Well?  My treat.  I know this nice place...

Megumi:  I guess...

(Both look up at the sound of a crash from upstairs.)

Signus:  What was that?

Megumi:  Oh, must be some weirdo martial artist freak crashing into 
the rooftop or something...

Signus:  O_O

Megumi:  (giggles)  I was only kidding.

Signus:  Oh.  (smiles)

Megumi:  Okay, I guess.  But I can't stay out long.  Ryuu...  I 
mean, Seiichiro, will be back any moment from now.

Signus:  Fine.  I would like to talk to Seiichiro myself.

Megumi:  Yeah...  Oh!

Signus:  Huh?

Megumi:  This outfit...  (points out her clothes)

Signus:  And clothing you wear look good on you...  (quickly 
adding)  It's not like we're going out someplace special.  Well?
   
Megumi:  ...O-okay.  Wait outside for a while, I'll follow shortly.    

Signus:  Very well.


--- Outside Mystic Manor

(A few minutes after Signus went out the building and stood at the 
entrance, Megumi nervously steps out, her mind a whirlwind of 
thoughts.)  

Megumi:  (thinks)  Everything's happening so fast...

(There was a sudden loud explosion.  Both Megumi and Signus look 
up at the former Wicked Witch of the West's headquarters, now 
apartment, building's top floors in curiousity, where smoke begins 
to issue out of a rather sizeable hole on the wall.)  

Megumi:   I wonder what's going on upstairs...  I hope Nezumi's all 
right.

Signus:  Well, it's nothing of our concern.  (pauses)  How do we get 
in touch with Seiichiro when he returns?

Megumi:  I've left a note for him.  Feathers will give the message 
when he gets back.

Signus:  (nods)  Good thinking.

Megumi:  Where are we going, Mister Ender?

Signus:  Please, just Sig.  All my friends call me that.  (smiles)  
We are friends...  Right?

Megumi:  (smiles back)  Okay...  Sig.

Signus:  (grins widely)  That's better...  we'll get a bite to eat 
first.  (offers his shoulder)  Shall we?

Megumi:  (holding on to Signus' side)  Hai.

(Megumi and Signus leaves Mystic Manor.  Unnoticed by the two, they 
are being followed...)
  
  
--- Time Passes

Signus:  So, what would you prefer?

Megumi:  (shrugs)  Whatever you like.

Signus:  Do you like ramen?

Megumi:  Ramen is ok.

Signus:  (opens the door for her)  After you...

(They arrive at a certain restaurant...  As they enter, the two 
cloaked figures following them stop to confer among themselves.  
As they step out into the open, we can now see them clearly as the 
two remaining members of the Sisterhood of the Convent at The 
Outskirts of The City of Tokyo right nearby Nerima.)

Hasei:  He is the one, I'm sure if it.  The One the Mother 
Superior described.

Meiju:  Yes...  What do we do now?

Hasei:  We wait and see.

Meiju:  Very well...  Sister Shiela, we shall avenge you...

(The two vanish into the shadows.  Meanwhile, inside the 
restaurant...)


---  Nekohanten

Megumi:  Well, it's very...

Signus:  ...Yes?

Megumi:  (looks around) ...Deserted.

Signus:  ...Yes. -_-;

As if on cue, a short bundle of energy bursts out of the back room,
dodges around two tables, and vaults the front counter, landing in
front of Megumi.  At rest, the blur is revealed to be a teenage
Japanese girl wearing a Chinese silk dress and a pair of glasses.  
Her hair is pulled back into something reminiscent of Shampoo's, 
but lacking the hair ornaments.  She is holding a pair of menus, 
and, beaming complete happy radiance, she bows.

Sumire:  Irrashaimase!  Hi-hi-hi!  Welcome to the Nekohanten!  Would
you like a table?!  For two?!  Oh, I know!  How about one of these
nice booths over here?!  Sure!  Just follow me!

Signus:  Ah...


---  Somewhere else in Nerima

Ah:  (stops walking)  ?

Chris:  What now?

Ah:  Funny...  Somehow I feel hungry all of a sudden.

Tom:  Well, let's go get something to eat then.  (points to a nearby 
establishment)  How about there?

Ah:  That's Zuni's...  (brightens)  Oh!  Good, let's go there...  
I can see how Uhm is doing.

Chris & Tom:  Who?

Ah:  Uhm.

Chris & Tom:  Who?

Ah:  Uhm.  He's the sweet guy I keep telling you two about.

Chris & Tom:  Who?

Ah:  Uhm.

Chris:  Never mind...  -_-;

Tom:  ?_?;;;  (thinks:  I still don't get it...)

(Meanwhile, somewhere else, Uhm suddenly feels cold.  And scared.
Really scared.  No, not the "I'm afraid someone/thing's after me 
and I'm going to die any time now." kind, or the "I've screwed up 
big time and I'm gonna suffer for it any time now."  No, it's more 
like "Someone's thinking things about me, and it's the stuff I'd 
rather die that do it with that said someone... although some of 
them are pretty interesting especially the handcuffs and whipped  
cream and WHAT THE HELL AM I THINKING!?!" type of fear.)


--- Nekohanten

(And, having used an entire day's supply of exclamation points 
within fifteen seconds, Sumire skips -- almost literally -- to 
one of the large booths.  Signus and Megumi exchange glances before 
following.)  

Megumi:  Uh...  Is this a good idea?

Signus:  (shrugs)  I've been here before, so it's OK.  (pauses)  
Although this is the first time I've seen the jailbait... er, I 
mean the new waitress.

(Once they are seated, Sumire thrusts menus upon them, and begins 
rattling off a string of specials at a thousand or so words per 
minute.  Megumi begins to look slightly dazed.)

Sumire:  ...and squid curry!  So... if you're not ready to order 
now, I could get you drinks and come back later! ^_^

Signus:  (glancing at Megumi)  Hmm...  drinks are fine.

Sumire:  Okay!  What would you like...  (starts rattling off all 
the drinks in the list, which would fill a good-sized phone book 
when at normal speed.)

Megumi:  ...


--- Kitchen, Nekohanten

(Shampoo-M peers out at the restaurant, then withdraws again before
burying her face in her hands.)

Shampoo-M:  Should never have let 'little sister' be waitress.

Shampoo-R:  Shampoo could not know that today, Nekohanten have
in-house customers.

Shampoo-M:  Shampoo think it like old saying:  When rains, rains.

Shampoo-R:  Pours.

Shampoo-M:  How Shampoo pour, when customers not ordered drinks yet?


--- Dining Room, Nekohanten

(After a while, Sumire was finally done with the recital.  Signus 
turns to Megumi.)

Signus:  Uh...  (looks at Megumi)  Are you feeling OK?

Megumi:  Oh.  (shakes her head to clear her mind)  I'm fine.

Signus:  So, what would you like?  (starts poring over the menu)

Megumi:  (looks over the menu)  I...  I'll have...

Signus and Megumi:  (simultaneous)  ...whatever you're having.

Megumi:  Oh!

Signus:  Heh.  (grins)  It's all right.

Megumi:  (blushing fiercely)  ...  (thinks:  Please, don't 
misunderstand...  Why am I feeling this way?)

Signus:  (calls out to Sumire)  We'll both have some ice tea, 
please.  (glances at Megumi)  Regular.

Sumire:  ^_^  OK!  (bounds off)

Signus:  Miss Megumi, are you sure you're all right?  You don't 
look so well.

Megumi:  No, (dismissive gesture) I'm fine, really...

Signus:  ...OK.  (narrows eyes)  If you say so...

(The two lapsed into an uneasy silence, Megumi staring off anywhere 
except at Signus, while Signus studies her intently.)  

(Megumi is trying to understand this new turmoil, this new confusion 
in her already-chaotic life.  She always read about these things in 
paperbacks back home, but never expected it to happen to her...)

Megumi:  (thinking)  I don't understand what's going on...  
What's wrong with me?

(At the same time, Signus is looking Megumi over in admiration.  
They were seated near the window overlooking the street, and at 
an angle the view frames her brooding form like a picture, 
highlighting the contrasts in her features and making her look more 
calm and mature yet fresh and youthful in at the same time.  An 
impossible fusion of contrasts, yet that is the only words closest 
to describe the sight he is seeing now.)

Signus:  (thinks)  So beautiful and pure.  Such an opportunity...  
(shakes his head to clear his thoughts, speaking aloud)  
What the hfil am I thinking?!?  This is not part of the Plan...

(Megumi was shaken off her thoughts by Signus' sudden outburst.)  

Megumi:  (blinking)  Pardon me?

Signus:  (avoiding her gaze, muttering)  Nothing...  just...  
thinking.

(It was Megumi's turn to finally look Signus over.  Admittingly, he 
is quite good-looking, and suave and stylish.  His business suit 
underneath the trenchcoat looks so formal and noble, radiating 
confidence in his actions.  Even the dark leather coat, instead of 
making the gaijin look imposing, only gives him a cool mysterious 
look that makes him all the more attractive.  Plus he usually acts 
so casual, like this manner were all second nature for him.)  

(Yet, when she thought about it, behind the pleasing exterior, she 
could feel his pent-up unease, like a coiled spring locked down.  
Its as if something heavy was burdening him deep inside, although 
he didn't, or wouldn't, show it.  It's the sort of burden that she 
couldn't resist from trying to help others with.)  

Megumi:  You know, thinking by yourself may lead to doing something 
you may regret later.

(Signus was startled by the familiarity of the last statement.)  

Signus:  Huh?  (thinks)  How did...  could she...  nahh, couldn't 
be... but just to be sure...  (aloud)  Really?

Megumi:  Why don't you tell me what's bothering you, Sig.

Signus:  No, no, I really shouldn't...  (thinks)  Hfil, why not?  
Of course...)   (aloud)  ...then again, maybe I will.  (pauses)  
But...

Megumi:  (curious)  But..?

Signus:  (leaning forward)  You should tell me what's bothering you 
too.

Megumi:  (taken aback)  Huh?  (thinks)  How could he have guessed...?  
No, he couldn't have...  (aloud)  I...

Signus:  C'mon.  Do I hear a hesitation in your voice?  (teasing 
tone)  Ah!  You're shy!  (grins)  I know, you're probably thinking 
that this is getting to be more like a real date that ever, right?  
Right?

Megumi:  (blushing some more)  No I'm not.

Signus:  (draws back)  If it makes you feeling any easier, this is 
not something special, just a meal between friends.  Okay?  (smiles)  
Although being with friends is always a special time...  

Megumi:  ...OK then.  (smiles back)  You first.

Signus:  (thoughful)  Hmm...  where do I begin..?  (leans back on 
his seat)  ...What would you like to know about me?

Megumi:  For starters, what's been bothering you.

Signus:  (raises an eyebrow)  Why?

Megumi:  I've noticed you staring distantly, so I wonder...

Signus:  Oh, that...  (thoughtful)  It's nothing really important, 
really.  Just my...  work.

Megumi:  (noticing the pause)  Work?

Signus:  I'm an independent financial advisor.  My... job... takes 
me to far-off places, doing God-knows-what.

(Signus pauses, trying to put his feelings and thoughts into words.) 

Signus:  (continuing)  ...Anyway, I wasn't an Adj...  I mean, I used 
to have a different position, before... circumstances forced me to 
become what I am now.

Megumi:  So you used to work for a company you don't like?

Signus:  I still do, and I like what's been happening to the 
company.  I help found it, in fact.  It's just now I'm working in a 
different... capacity.

Megumi:  Oh.  So what's wrong?

Signus:  Recently, I've been thinking...  Re-evaluating my deeds...
Somehow, something's wrong.

Megumi:  So, you think what you've been doing right now is a mistake, 
and you want to turn over a new leaf?

Signus:  No, not that...  I am happy with my position if that's what 
you meant.  I just feel something missing in my life.  What I've 
been doing, why should I be doing this...  Sometimes, I think I 
needed someone...  (catches himself)  I'm sorry, I don't know what 
came over me.  I shouldn't burden you with my problems.

Megumi:  That's all right.  Sometimes you just have to let it all 
out, and not keep it bottled up inside.

Signus:  (thinks)  Could she... she be...  no, Admin was certain I 
was the only Adjentes posted here...  but it's too much of a 
coincidence...  (aloud)  Oh...  I guess you're right...

(Before Signus can continue, Sumire enters the scene, bearing a tall 
glass of ice tea with two straws stuck on them.)

Sumire:  (cheerful)  Here you go!

Megumi:  O_O  (starts blushing)

Signus:  O_o  What's the meaning of this?

Sumire:  But, I thought...  you two...  #^_^#

Signus:  Never mind what you're thinking...  I asked for TWO 
glasses, not one.  _Separate_ glasses.  Geez...  (sighs)  Just get 
us another one, please.  And two bowls of ramen, regular.

Sumire:  Gomen...  (hurries off)

Megumi:  (still red-faced)  ...

Signus:  Well...  (passes the glass to Megumi)  Here...  You must 
be thirsty.

Megumi:  Arigato.  (pauses)  What about yours..?

Signus:  Your smile is all that matters.   Besides, I can wait.  
(smiles)  Your turn.

Megumi:  What should I..?

Signus:  Start at when you first knew Seiichiro, or Ryuu, if you 
prefer.

Megumi:  But you haven't really told me what's been bothering you.

Signus:  You're right.  I guess it doesn't matter anymore.  (leans 
closer towards Megumi)  Miss Megumi...

Megumi:  Sig, just Megumi.

Signus:  Megumi...

Megumi:  (tenses as she notices Signus leaning closer to her) ...

Signus:  ...  I...  I...
 
Sumire:  (cheerful)  Here's your drink, sir!
 
Signus:  ACK!  (facefaults)
 
Sumire:  (pikus)  What's going on?
 
Signus:  (picks himself off the floor)  Nothing, nothing...  
(thinks)  I'm not so sure myself.
 
Sumire:  (bows)  Your ramen will be in a while, please wait.
 
Megumi:  Okay, thank you.
 
Sumire:  (beams)  No problem!  (bounds away)
 
Signus:  (straightens himself ands sits back down, muttering)  
I'll never be used to this place...
 
Megumi:  So, where were we?

Signus:  Sorry...  got distracted there.

Megumi:  I'll say.  (takes a sip)  So...
 
Signus:  Anyway...  Oh, yes...  The company I work for requires me 
do do a survey on the area, to find some suitable spots for a 
planned construction.

Megumi:  Oh, a building?
 
Signus:  Well, not in the way you think.  But that's not what's 
bothering me.
 
Megumi:  What is?
 
Signus:  (blurting out)  I'm not sure how I feel about you.
 
Megumi:  What?  O_O

Signus:  (quickly corrects himself)  I mean, I'm not sure how I fit 
around here.  (pauses)  So that's why I wanted to talk to you...  
and to Seiichiro, of course.
 
Megumi:  You wanted to know the extent of his powers, is that it?

Signus:  Not really, although that is one.  (thoughtful)  Nerima is 
a very dangerous place.  Why are you here?
 
Megumi:  I came to visit Seiichiro after I heard he traveled here 
to attend school.  You see, he left the college he was attending 
near our hometown a year ago...  without saying much.

Signus:  (very interested)  Oh?

Megumi:  I wanted to know why he left.  We were best friends since 
we were little children and...  (blushes slightly)  I missed him.

Signus:  (notes the blush)  But why would he leave...  and go to 
Nerima?

Megumi:  From what I heard from a friend, he hoped to leave 
something behind...  his friend was not very clear about what 
was going on.  

Signus:  His friend?

Megumi:  Yes, from back home.

Signus:  (thinks)  I will have to make a background check on this 
friend of Seiichiro.  It could be important.  (aloud)  And what 
else?

Megumi:  All I know is that he has changed since I have last seen 
him.  In his personality and his...

Signus:  His power?

Megumi:  (nods)  Yes, he has never actually developed the power to 
use chi or to use the elements as a weapon.  In fact, he spent most 
of his time in his studies or his music.

Signus:  Then you are saying that he already have powers even before 
all this happened?  (thinks)  Most of his time?  How did he develop 
these abilities without Archiv's knowledge?  I wonder...

Megumi:  No, not really that sort of power you mean.

Signus:  (nods)  Obviously, since it is normally beyond the 
capabilities of mere human beings...

Megumi:  (continues)  That night, when those men in black...

Signus:  (scathing tone)  The so-called "Dark Agents" of Stahlfaust.

Megumi:  ...Yes, when those men kidnapped me, I had never seen 
Seiichiro in such rage... it was so... frightening.  He's changed 
now, being a bit more quiet and reserved.

Signus:  (nodding)  So, what about your relationship...

Megumi:  What do you mean?

Signus:  (stops himself) I mean, when did you two first meet?

Megumi:  Oh.  Like I said, we were childhood friends.  Our parents 
were very close so we often did things together.  We went to the 
same school up through high school.

Signus:  And you both have other friends as well?

Megumi:  Yes...  (goes silent)

Signus:  (thinks)  A lot like my Family...  (aloud)  I'm sorry to 
have to ask you so many questions... as if I was interrogating you.

Megumi:  (smiles)  That's OK, I'm not really bothered by it.  
(thinks)  Only that I remembered the others back home...

Signus:  Ok then, about Seiichiro's powers...

Megumi:  His powers?  He doesn't tell me much, but then again, I 
didn't ask him, but I think it has something to do with his sword.  

Signus:  His sword?...  Oh, you mean that weapon he was wielding 
back then...The "Kanjo no Ken", I think he called it.

Megumi:  (nods)  Yes.

Signus:  (thinks to himself)  Stahlfaust was after the sword too...  
Maybe I can convince Seiichiro to...  no, I don't think so.  I'll 
just have to rely on the tracer bug I implanted in the Stahlfaust 
building earlier.  Maybe Admin has already dissected the data 
collected for this.

Megumi:  Sig?

Signus:  (shakes his head)  Huh?

Megumi:  You were silent all of a sudden.

Signus:  Sorry, Megumi...  I was just thinking...

(As Signus looks away, Megumi peers at Signus intently.)  

Megumi:  (thinks)  Sigmund really is troubled about something...  
I wonder if he can tell me what it really is.

(They continue their meal, finishing the ramen.)

Signus: Ah! That was good.

Megumi:  (smiles)  Yes, the food here is pretty good.

Signus:  (pauses)  Um, Megumi...

Megumi: Yes?

Signus: I...

(As if on cue, Sumire dashes over with a bill.)

Sumire:  (collecting the bowls and utensils with amazing speed) 
Hope you enjoy meal, here's the check.  Thank you, please come 
again!  (dashes off)
        
Signus: ... O_O

Megumi: (small laugh)  You're not quite used to this yet, are you?

Signus:  (chuckles)  I guess I'm not.  (puts down money)  Let's 
leave then.  Shall we?

Megumi:  OK.


--- Right outside the Nekohanten

(Hasei and Meiju reappear.)

Hasei:  We should have silenced him here.

Meiju:  No, we would attract attention.  We will wait for a chance 
to ambush him first...

Hasei:  Agreed.

(The two disappear into the air.)


---  Outside Nekohanten

(The couple exits the restaurant.)

Signus:  Now that was a great meal.

Megumi:  So, where to now?

Signus:  I dunno...  wherever you want, I guess.

Megumi:  We should head back.

Signus:  Fine.

(They begin heading back towards Mystic Manor.  However, before they 
reach a block away from the Nekohanten...)

Signus:  Nice day, isn't it?

Megumi:  Yes, it is.  (leans on Signus)

Signus:  (sweatdrops)  Uh, Megumi...  I...

Voice:  YOU THERE!  STOP!

Signus:  O_O

Megumi:  Huh?

(Both of them turn around to see a group of Dark Agents gathered 
behind them.)

DA#1:  Sir!  Where are you going?

Megumi:  "Sir?"  What is he talking about..?

Signus:  (quick thinking)  They mistook me for one of their Dark 
Agent Leaders because of my getup...  hmm...  the potential for 
mischief...  (whispers to Megumi)  Don't say anything...  please, 
trust me on this.

(Megumi silently nods.  Signus addresses the group.)

Signus:  Alright...  This is MY business.  What are YOU doing here?

(The Dark Agents gulp in unison.  Signus inwardly cheers to himself.)  

DA#2:  (apologetic)  Sorry, sir...  we were ordered to do spot 
reconnaissance on the Bearer of the Sword.

DA#3:  (looks at Megumi)  Hey, isn't she..?

Signus:  (quickly interrupting)  Yes, she is the objective's woman.  
(holds her closer)  And I'll be taking her back to HQ.  Now, if 
you'll excuse me...

Megumi:  O_O

DA#1:  Very good, sir.

(Signus and Megumi starts walking away.)

Signus:  As you were, gentlemen.  (whispering to Megumi)  On my 
word, we'll have to make a break for it.

(Megumi nods in reply.)

DA#3:  Hey, waitaminute...  I think I recognize him...

Signus:  Damn...  NOW!

(Signus and Megumi breaks out into a run, with the Dark Agents 
chasing behind them.)

DA#2:  STOP THEM!

DA#4:  DON'T LET THEM GET AWAY!

(Signus points out to an alleyway.)

Signus:  Quick, this way!

(The two ducked into the said alleyway, with the Dark Agents hot 
on their heels.  Further into the alleyway, they arrived at a dead 
end.)

Megumi:  Oh, no!  It's a dead end!

Signus:  Do you trust me?

Megumi:  (hesitant nod)  Hai.

Signus:  Then stay still.  (pushes Megumi to the wall)

Megumi:  Sig...

(In a swift motion, Signus covers himself and Megumi with his 
trenchcoat.  Soon the Dark Agents arrive.)

Megumi:  ....

Signus:  Shh...  not a sound...  (puts on his fedora)

(Megumi begins to blush at the closeness of Signus' body, pressed 
at hers.  She felt herself involuntarily getting warmer...)

DA#1:  They went in here.

DA#4:  Then we must search the area.

(After a few minutes of scouring...)

DA#2:  Nothing...  they disappeared without a trace.

DA#4:  Incredible.  

DA#3:  Damn...  We'll just have to go to Mystic Manor as planned.

(The Dark Agents leave.  After they are gone, Signus removes his 
fedora.)

Signus:  Whew.  (looks at Megumi)  I'm sorry...

Megumi:  (looks down at the floor in embarrasment)  It's all right, 
Sig...  I understand...  I think.

(Signus looks at Megumi with awe.  Slightly slouching as she leaned 
at the wall, her eyes downcast, her light clothes slighly dampened 
with both hers and his sweat...  The whole sight only served to 
make her even more innocent and fragile.)

Signus:  (thinks)  Kawaii...

Megumi:  I wonder why they're still around.  I thought we took care 
of the last of them.  

Signus:  Only the leader, not the last of them.  (clucks his tongue)  
Of course they'll be wanting revenge for their former leader.  More 
likely, they're after you, since you're Seiichiro's girlfriend, in 
order to get to him.

Megumi:  ...  (changes the subject)  You haven't really told me yet 
what's been bothering you, Sig...

Signus:  (taken aback)  I...  can't tell you...  not yet.

Megumi:  Don't worry.  (waves arms around)  There's no one here to 
listen in to us.

Signus:  (sweatdrops, thinks worriedly)  It this an invitation?  
Does she really understand what's going on..?  (aloud)  Megumi...

Megumi:  It's all right.  You can tell me, and I won't mind.

Signus:  (relieved)  All right.

Megumi: (peers at him intently, smiling)  Well?

Signus: Well, it's just that... (moves closer to Megumi)

Megumi:  (slight wavering)  Sig..?  (Backs away a little)

Signus: I...

(Signus reaches out to touch her cheek.)

Signus:  ...You are so beautiful, Megumi Tenkawa.

(Signus grabs Megumi by the waist, pulling her close to him, and 
kisses her passionately.  Megumi's face begins to redden and she 
starts to struggle and then pushes Signus away.  They both turn 
away from each other and stare at the ground.  She blushes deep 
red as the two try to compose themselves.)

Signus:  (thinks)  Oh, no!  What have I done!  I've ruined it...  
She will hate me now... Damn...  (looks at Megumi)  What the hfil 
did I just do!?!  Acting like an indecisive teenage prick thinking 
with his own balls, and not caring for the other's feelings...  
Damn...

Megumi:  (thinks)  What was that?  Why didn't I... stop him when 
he came to me...  I could see it coming, but...  (looks at Signus)

Signus:  (thinks)  Damn...  (composes himself, still thinking)  I 
guess it's for the best...  "A Megido should not fall to temptation"
...  (aloud)  Megumi...  I'm so sorry...  I must've lost control or
something...  Forgive me.  

Megumi:  (blushes)  I...  

(Megumi slowly raises her trembling hand to touch her lips.)  

Megumi:  (thinks)  My...  my first kiss...

Signus:  I didn't mean to be so... forward to you.  But...  I 
really mean it.  I... (pauses) like you, Megumi...  I like you a 
lot.  (thinks)  Did I just say _that_?  

Megumi:  (still in shock)  I li...  (looks at the entrance of the 
alley)  ...Oh! 

Signus:  Huh?  (turns around to see two young women dressed up as 
nuns sneering at the scene)

Hasei:  (grimace)  So, we have found a Megido...  Mother Superior 
will be most pleased.

Meiju:  Such scum...  taking advantage of an innocent maiden...  
(shaking with rage)  You will BE PUNISHED!

Signus:  Eh?  (moves between Megumi and the two sister nuns)  
Excuse me, Sisters, but I think you both are getting this all wrong, 
whoever you are.  

Meiju:  Do not bother explaining yourself, you traitor to mankind!  
You should be more concerned about what will happen to you now.  

Signus:  What are you talking about?

Meiju:  ENOUGH TALK!  (charges at Signus)  SURRENDER OR DIE!  

(The two nuns attack him.  Signus dodges away, turning to make sure 
that Megumi is out of harm's way.)  

Signus:  (dodging)  Megumi, get away from here!  (dodges some more)

Megumi:  I...

Meiju:  Feel the wrath of GOD!  FLAMING TOUCH!  

Signus:  ~sagang pangahas~

(A shinai appears in Signus hands, and he blocks Meiju's strike 
with the stick.  The shinai bursts into flames with contact from 
her hands.)   

Signus:  Serious...  this is serious...  (drops the burning stick)

(Meiju backs away, firing off her fire attack towards Signus.) 

Meiju:  FIRES OF PURITY!  

(Signus ducks to the side, spilling several discarded crates and 
other stuff usually found in an alleyway.  Megumi, seeing the fire 
wave attack heading towards her, also does the same.)  

Signus:  Damn...  Megumi!  

Hasei:  (moving forward in Meiju's place)  HOLY CLEANSING RAY!

(Signus begins performing the gesture...)  


---  Several blocks away

(At the sound of an explosion, several Mysterious Figures 
materialize atop a nondescript building and watched the sight of 
a white cross-shaped shaft of light rise into the horizon.)

MF#1:  What the hfil was that?!?  Could it be..?

MF#2:  No, Ryuuchiro didn't say anything about any other One.  
Only _THE_ One.  Besides, this is the wrong thread.

MF#3:  Yes.  The One...  Speaking of which, we have to hurry and 
meet up with Ryuuchiro.  We're running late as it is.

MF#4:  Let's go.

(The Fireborn enter the Fire and continue on, into "The One To Carry 
On III" thread.)  


---  Dead-End Alley

(Megumi flinched as the loud  of energy blast meeting magical 
barrier rang out in the alleyway.  As the dust from the area 
scattered by the blast clears, Signus is seen to be relatively 
unscathed.  Meiju, however, being in the area of the attack, was not 
so fortunate.)  

Meiju:  Uhh...  this can't be...

(Signus pulls a bokken from HammerSpace and slowly approches the 
down Meiju.)  

Signus:  I'm going to say this once:  Stop this unwarranted attack 
this instant and leave.  Since you have knowledge not supposed to be 
known, I assume you two are both Listed.  So, back off.  Now.  
You're fight's not scheduled for here to date.  

Hasei:  NEVER!  BLAZING GLARE!

Signus:  Wha...  (hit full-on by the flash)  My eyes..!  I can't see!

(Megumi averts her eyes from the bright light surrounding them.  
Only when her vision cleared when she realized someone has gone 
behind her.)

Megumi:  Wha...  

(Megumi is grabbed from behind by Hasei, who has her in a bear hug.)

Hasei:  Do not struggle girl, else it will be your last.

(Megumi is immobilized by Hasei...  At this time, Signus' sight 
returns.)

Signus: (blinking)  Well, that was close...  (sees Megumi captured)  
Oh, no!

Hasei:  Stop!  

Signus:  Hey!  Let her go!

Hasei:  (hands glowing with energy)  Move and the girl will taste a 
fresh point-blank infusion of the pure cleansing energy of the Lord.

Signus:  I'm warning you...  

Hasei:  (sneers)  Oh, really?  

(Megumi screams as she feels intense heat pass through her body in 
waves as Hasei channels her powers through her hands into Megumi.  
Although there were no physical burns, her mind neverthereless felt 
the sensations of her body burning up in a raging inferno.)  

Megumi:  KYAAAAAA!!!...

Signus:  No!  Don't hurt her!  Can't...  (pleading)  can't we talk 
this over?  

Hasei:  Don't even think about it.  

Signus:  You Hypocrit...  

(Signus' words was cut off as Meiju, fully recovered when Hasei 
bought her time by distracting Signus long enough, was able to get 
close enough to striking range, and took the opportunity to apply 
the Flaming Touch, burning his back severely.  He GRITted his 
teeth, biting back a scream of pain as he dropped to the ground.)  

Megumi:  (weakly)  Sig!  

Hasei:  Do not worry, girl.  We need this one alive to show to the 
Mother Superior.  (to Meiju)  Finish him.

Meiju:  Not yet.  (to Signus)  You need to be punished.  

Signus:  (prone on the ground, groaning)  D... damn you...  

Meiju:  Us?  Damned?  Hah!  You should tell yourself that.  After 
I'm finished with you, you'd wish you were dead!

(Meiju begins kicking Signus around, who does not retaliate for fear 
of Megumi's safety.)

Meiju:  Scum!..  Bastard!..  Dirt!..  Lowlife!..  Worthless!..

Hasei:  Meiju, please stop this.  We must hurry.  

Meiju:  I will not stop until I am satisfied with his bloody corpse 
lying on the ground!  

Hasei:  (firm tone)  We need this Megido alive.

Meiju:  (turns to Hasei)  DON'T TELL ME YOU HAVE FORGOTTEN WHAT 
_THEY_ HAVE DONE TO US?!?  They destroyed our home, murdered our 
Sister, DESECRATED the very house of the Lord!

Signus:  (coughing)  We...  didn't do it...  Not...  ours...

Meiju:  SHUT UP, YOU LYING, THIEVING DIRTBAG!  KEEP YOUR INFERNAL 
TONGUE WHILE I APPLY HEAVEN'S DIVINE PUNISHMENT ON YOU, LEST I RIP 
IT OUT OF YOUR BLASPHEMING MOUTH AS A TROPHY!!!

Hasei:  (calmly)  Does stooping to their level make you feel any 
better?  

Meiju:  DON'T YOU REALIZE WHAT YOU ARE SAYING!  Don't you want to 
avenge our Sisters?!?

Hasei:  Stay focused, or we will be caught unprepared by the War...  

(While the two nuns were arguing, Megumi felt Hasei's grip on her 
loosen.  Her martial arts lessons returned to her unbidden, and she 
immediately goes into action, lifting Hasei's arms over her head 
while at the same time the balls of her feet stomped on Hasei's 
foot.  Before Hasei can react, Megumi bend low and brought Hasei 
over her right shoulder, performing a basic shoulder throw and 
hurling the nun towards an equally-unprepared Meiju.)

Hasei:  Wha...  O.O

Meiju:  Huh...  O.O

  

Signus:  Wow.

Hasei and Meiju:  +.+  

(Both nuns ended up on the ground, stunned.  Megumi quickly rushes 
to Signus' side.  She could see that although Signus took a lot of 
punishment, he is strong enough to move.)  

Megumi:  Are you feeling all right, Sig?  

Signus:  I'm...  (panting)  ...I'm OK, Megumi.  I think.  You?  

Megumi:  (smiling weakly)  I can take care of myself, Sig.  

Signus:  Well, (getting up) as long as you are safe...

Meiju:  (getting up)  Not for long.

(Both nuns stand up, anger on both their faces directed at them.)  

Hasei:  You will suffer for that, girl.

Megumi:  Look, I don't know what you two are after, but (takes a 
defensive combat stance) I won't let you just do whatever you feel 
like doing to us!

Signus:  Megumi...  

Meiju:  I don't care about any War, you will both DIE!  (rushes at 
them)  HOLY BANISHING WAVE!  

(Signus quickly steps forward covering Megumi, gesturing...)  

Signus:  WALL.  

Hasei:  (charging, behind Meiju)  HUNTER BEAM!

(Signus' barrier makes contact with the fast-moving light blast, 
cancelling Hasei's attack.)  

Signus:  (makes a rushing jab)  ~tirang pangahas~

(Signus throws a punch, and a shinai materializes from HS, striking 
Meiju on the forehead, knocking her down...  but not before Meiju's 
slower flame attack goes off, going through Signus' barrier.)  

Signus:  Agh...  (falls to his knees, smoking)

Hasei:  You are fini...  

Megumi:  (behind Signus)  CHI KNUCKLE!

(Protected from Meiju's flame attack by Signus, Megumi rushes at 
Hasei, her chi-charged punch connecting solidly with the nun's 
chest.  Hasei was driven back, staggering more in shock and surprise 
than by the force of the attack.)

Megumi:  (stumbles, breathing heavily)  I... did it...  

Hasei:  (choking)  I cannot believe this...

(Signus, with his clothes smoking from the last attack, slowly 
stands up.)

Signus:  You're both at a disadvantage.  Give up, and go away.

Hasei:  (shuddering at the defeat)  Yes...  We will leave.  
(lifting the downed Meiju)  but we'll be back...  

Meiju:  (coughing, glares at Megumi)  Count on it.  

(There was a flash of light, and both nuns disappeared.)  

Megumi:  They're gone.  

Signus:  For now.  (takes out a cigarette)  Damn, I need a smoke.  
This has been a long day...  

Megumi:  You shouldn't smoke so much, Sig.  That's bad for your 
health.

Signus:  (coughs)  You're right.  (sheepish grin that turns into 
a grimace)  Ow.  That hurt...  

Megumi:  (worried)  Sig...

Signus:  It's nothing, nothing...  (performs the gesture)  SPARK.  

(The pack of cigarettes burst into flame.)  

Signus:  (shrugs)  I should be quitting, anyway.

(Megumi smiles.)


---  Mystic Manor

(Late afternoon.  Both Signus and Megumi arrived from their little 
side adventure, a little worse for wear but mostly in one piece.  
Feathers greets them in the lobby.)  

Feathers:  Hello Megumi, Mister Ender.

Megumi:  Feathers-san, is Seiichiro back yet?  

Feathers:  Well, he was here a while ago, Megumi.  But he left again 
with Kiwi, Nezumi and the others.  They say they're going out to get 
a bite to eat at Zuni's.


---  Somewhere out there

Tsu:  I HATE YOU ZUNI'S!!!


---  Lobby, Mystic Manor

Megumi:  Oh, I see.  

Signus:  What a crazy day this has been.  And I still haven't 
talked to Mister Kanashimi yet.  (reaches into his pockets)  
Anyway, here's something to hold on to.  

(Megumi receives the calling card.)

Megumi:  Huh?  Isn't this...

Signus:  You lost the last one, right?  

Megumi:  Yes, but how did you know?

Signus:  (smiles faintly)  Lucky guess.  (looks at the time)  
I have to leave, though.  

Megumi:  Leave?  But aren't you going to stay here for a little 
while and wait for Seiichiro?  

Signus:  Sorry, but no time for that now.  I have another...  
appointment.  (bows to Feathers and Megumi)  If you'll excuse me, 
I will be leaving now.  Farewell.  

(Signus exits the lobby.  Megumi looks at the card, then goes 
after him, leaving Feathers at the hallway.  After a few moments, 
Feathers smiles enigmatically.)


---  Outside Mystic Manor 

(Megumi sees Signus outside, standing next to a lamp post and 
muttering angrily to himself.  She was about to call out, but 
instead listened to him berate to himself loud enough for her to 
hear quite clearly.)

Signus:  (berates)  Damnit all!  Why do you have to go out and 
fall for her like that?  Stupid, stupid...  there are plenty of 
pretty girls right here in Nerima.  Don't forget the mission.  
(facepalms)  This is hopeless...

(Signus is about to wear his fedora and leave when he hears Megumi 
calling out to him.  He freezes at the sound of her voice behind 
him.)

Megumi:  Sig!  Wait!  

Signus:  (turns around)  Megumi...  How long were you...  

Megumi:  ...  (no reply)

(The two of them look down the ground in embarrasment.  Signus 
finally breaks the silence.)  

Signus:  Is this about what happened back there, in the alley, 
before..?  

Megumi:  ...  (no reply)

Signus:  Was that your... first?  

Megumi:  Yes...  and no.  

Signus:  So I'm not the first one, after all.  

Megumi:  ...Yes.  

Signus:  (sighs, smiling sadly)  Then I wish you and Seiichiro all 
the luck.  (turns around to leave)

Megumi:  Wait!  

Signus:  Eh?

(Megumi tiptoes up to kiss Signus lightly on the cheek.)  

Megumi:  Thank you.  For everything.

Signus:  (small smile)  You're welcome.  (begins to walk away)

Megumi:  You're leaving?  Just like that?

Signus:  (chuckles)  You'll see me around.  Don't worry.  Besides, 
I still wanted to talk to Seiichiro.  

(Signus walks away slowly.)

Signus:  (looking back)  In case you'll be looking for me...  don't 
lose the card, and I'll be there.  (winks)  Until then...

(Signus wears his hat as he turns a corner, and promptly disappears 
into the bowels of the city.  Despite this, Megumi could still hear 
his voice in her mind clearly, even after he left.)

Signus (VO):  In case you'll be looking for me...  I'll be there.

(Megumi looks at the card for a while.  Reaching a sudden decision, 
she pockets it, then hurriedly heads out for Zuni's, determination 
now etched deeply into her eyes.)

Megumi:  (aloud, to no one in particular)  Seiichiro...




-Skribulous  (aka. MaRaMaLa, D' Fat Dragon Scribe)
http://hello.to/maramala

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