Beneath the Twilight Blooms

Heh heh. It's been some time since my last worthwhile negotiation.

Now to figure out a fun way to circulate my latest purchase...

Hey, Shigure.

If it isn't Aldo. Armed to the teeth as always, I see. Would you like me to pick you out something a little lighter, a bit more in vogue?

Er... I think I'll pass. I kinda like these clothes.

Heh, no need to get serious on me! You've got your own style, and it's one I can appreciate.

Now then, is there something I can help you with? I'm always happy to talk business with you.

Actually, it's Akane I've got business with today. The Shigure from my world told me he was worried about her. But he's got his hands full, so I came to check on her instead.

Ah, yes. I remember that handsome devil.

He's worried about Akane, is he? Hmph... I don't see why he would be. But I was about to head over to the dojo myself just now.

Great. Then I'll join you!

Aaand stop!

Those were some fine practice swings. Your training is clearly paying off.

Th-Thank you, miss!

That form is the foundation for all techniques. Learn it well, everyone.

Yes, Master!

...I still can't get used to people calling me that. I'm not even the grandmaster here, just a stand-in. And yet I took in new students...

Oho, looks like all's well here.

Lord Shigure? And Aldo as well.

Lord Shigure...

Business seems to be booming. I see a lot of unfamiliar faces here. Are you all new students?

Yeah. Miss Akane saved us from all the crazy stuff that was happening in Izana the other day.

Got that right! So we decided to have her teach us the sword.

That way we can protect ourselves when push comes to shove.

Hey, that's a pretty good idea...

Stop this madness. Not only is the sword passé, it's got no future either.

Shigure!

Having an amateur swing a sword around half-heartedly only puts them in more danger. The sword is a tool meant to take lives, and to teach it means granting people that power.

Are you willing to bear that burden, Akane? To carry their lives upon your shoulders?

Well, I... I admit, you might have a point.

But I want you to take back what you said about the sword having no future. This dojo is the fruit of the founder's labor. He poured his blood and sweat into it. And you should know that better than anyone.

As time passes on, people change, and so, too, must the sword. But you would rather stand still, bound by the past?

But...

Aren't you the one who first recognized me as the successor to the Fugen Itto-Ryu clan?!

......

C'mon, Shigure. Let's step out for now. We're interrupting their practice.

...I think you went a little too far back there. Did you really mean what you said about the Fugen Itto-Ryu having no future?

Of course I did. I'm truthful with everything outside of business.

Besides, what I really wanted to say was...

I agree with Aldo.

Kamome!

She's your bride-to-be, isn't she? You could've been a little nicer, at the very least.

Do you "gather information" to sate your need for gossip, ninja?

Rude. I won't deny it, though.

It's been a while, Kamome. How're Tsubame and Suzume doing?

Fine! We've just been a little busy lately with work.

You mean, like a mission?

Yeah. That's why I'm here, too, came to get the former sword instructor.

Shigure. The tactician would like to have a very important word with you at Kurosagi Castle.

Oh? Well, thank you for letting me know. Could you tell Brother that business is keeping me quite busy and, if it's so important, he can come to me himself?

What? You aren't gonna go see him?

Even if I do, it'll either be him giving me another long-winded lecture or asking me to run some troublesome errand.

If he did come to see me, though, I'd at least hear him out!

...Wow. You never cease to amaze me.

You knew exactly what he was gonna say, Master Shion.

Sh-Shion?!

It sounds like we have an agreement, Lord Shigure. I am here, so you must hear me out.

You've done it now, Brother. Not a smart move.

You'll have to forgive me, but I had to make sure you wouldn't run away. After you left the castle, you've been blatantly avoiding me. Is that because you feel guilty?

...You're overthinking it. I just couldn't stand to hear another one of your lectures. Out with it, then. Time is money, so make it snappy.

Very well. I've gotten word that the remnants of the rebel army have been meeting in secret and are planning a revolt.

The rebel army? But the war's over and the land's finally at peace.

Yes, but once an organization gains power, it can lead its members astray. Though it might be an army, it was one formed in haste, so its members are likely of different minds.

They probably can't give up on the power they nearly had their hands on.

But that's terrible. What about the country? What about its people?!

Oh, my sweet summer child. I do appreciate that rosy outlook of yours, but people are just not that pretty on the inside. In fact, I find that old scumbag of a lord we had much more human than the boy who currently rules the land.

Still...I find Reimei a lot more agreeable.

That, too, is human.

Now then, Brother, what would you have me do? I thought it was your job to take care of the rebels.

It is. That is why I came to tell you to stay out of it. Good day.

I'll be going too, then. See ya, Aldo!

...What just happened?

Heh heh... Oh, Brother. You know me all too well.

Let's get a move on, Aldo! We need to find those rebels first!

What do you mean? I thought you didn't wanna help Shion...

Whoever said I was going to capture them? There are big business opportunities where big changes happen, and I won't let this one pass me by!

...I see.

All right. Well, it's not like I can just look the other way after hearing about the rebel army. But we've gotta find out where they're hiding first.

If they're going to attack Izana, they must be stationed somewhere secret nearby.

In that case... Oh! How about the tunnels beneath the Inanari Plateau?

A fine idea. I agree, they are the most likely hiding spot.

Then let's head...

To Nagsham! Come, Aldo.

Huh? I don't get it... Wait, Shigure! Why would we go to Nagsham?

The rebel army...

Hey, isn't it about time you told me what's going on? Why're we in Nagsham if we both agreed the underground tunnels were the most likely hiding spot?

Just think about it, Aldo. If someone like me can come up with that answer, what're the odds that Brother hasn't already checked there?

Guess that's true.

And anyway, we're here to do business. The question is who we ought to talk to for that. If my calculations are correct, then...

Outta the way! Move it!

People are falling from the sky! Hold on a sec. Was that...?

Izuna! You okay?!

Yeowch... Seems I still can't do it like Yahiko could.

Oh. Hey, you two! Came to hang out in Nagsham?

Not really... What're you doing here, Izuna?

I'm helpin' out Hozuki!

You what? Don't tell me she's got you by the tail feathers or something...

No, no! I asked her if I could help!

After all that happened, I did some thinkin'. Eventually, I decided to leave the mountain and learn more about people. I mean, Yahiko's gone, so...it was gettin' pretty lonesome up there anyway.

Yeah... I can see that.

But everything's all good now! I get along with the townspeople just fine!

You've really come a long way, Izuna. I remember you used to be so shy around humans.

Hehe... You think? At least now that guy won't be able to call me "bird brain" anymore! I'm a proud tengu, after all!

Ah, a tengu. I've been curious about that ever since we met.

You possess superhuman abilities, people know your name, and there's just something very...catchy about it all.

Uhh... What're you talkin' about?

Executive decision! Henceforth, you will be the mascot of the Fugen Company!

Y'know, on second thought, I might go back to the mountain. Humans are so weird...

Oh, don't chicken out on me. You're that boy's childhood friend, aren't you? I promise not to bring you any harm. In fact, I guarantee working for me will be far more pleasant than being a general's messenger bird.

All right, that's enough of that. Any more and you'll put the fear of humans right back in her.

Aldo's right.

Don't you merchants have any shame? Tryin' to poach someone's subordinate from right beneath their nose.

Hozuki!

I delivered the letter, just like you asked!

Wish I could say "job well done," but...

You're attractin' an awful lot of attention. You're a secret messenger, so try to be a li'l more secretive, will ya?

*gulp* W-Well, y'see...I was tryin' to fly fast, like Yahiko used to, but it's not easy keepin' myself in control...

Save your excuses. You can tell 'em to me later, in my office.

Caw?!

(I guess no one changes that much overnight...)

Now then... Shigure. Thanks again for all your help durin' all that Tsukuyomi business.

I see you even brought Aldo with ya today. Got somethin' to discuss with me?

Indeed I do. I'm not surprised the woman known as a wise general could figure that out so easily. I suggest an exchange of information regarding the rebel army of Mi.

...I see.

Very well. We can talk at the palace. You come, too, Aldo. I'm expectin' some other company today.

General Hozuki. Your guests have arrived.

Great. Let 'em in.

Yukino! Kagurame! Hozuki mentioned guests, but I didn't realize it'd be you two.

Well, if it isn't Aldo. And Shigure as well.

This is a right coincidence. It's nice to see you two. Pity my destiny ain't with you.

Ever since the war ended, we've been doing goodwill visits with Itoise. Today we planned to talk about the rebel army in Mi.

Oh, that makes sense. And Kagurame is...?

Living in Itoise. She is my right-hand woman and has been a great help.

Haha. It ain't nothin' grand, just lendin' a hand. And the snowfolk have been mighty kind to me in that cold land.

That's great. I had no idea!

Well, this is fortunate. Our timing couldn't be better.

How so?

Right now, the relationship between the three nations is more stable than it's ever been. Looking at it another way, the other countries wouldn't be able to ignore a rebel army that threatens this stability.

I beg your pardon? Please do not forget about Itoise in this little equation of yours.

I wouldn't dare! After all, the good relation between Itoise and Nagsham is a key factor here.

It is?

Just think, Aldo. The remnants of the rebel army need somewhere to hide. But where? It wouldn't make sense to lie in wait near Izana, where they're likely to be found. And there aren't any suitable hiding spots around Ro, which leaves them with only one option.

Meaning...they're somewhere near Nagsham?

Very likely. But they didn't factor in the relationship between the Land of Shin and Itoise. How could they? They don't know about Itoise. So they probably thought they'd be safe in the Kunlun Mountains.

Haha. You're a sharp one, hon.

That's exactly why we came here today. Ain't that right, Yukino?

...Yes. Although he beat me to it.

We've actually heard several reports of suspicious persons being spotted in the Kunlun Mountains.

That might be the rebels.

That's enough of a lead for me. Just leave the rest to us. To the mountains, Aldo!

W-Wait! Shigure?!

Uhh... Guess I'll be going then. It was nice seeing you all!

I know Aldo will be with him, but...are we sure that man can get the job done?

I reckon we put our faith in his success. After all, he's the one who helped us outta that big ol' mess.

Indeed. Not to mention Mi's tactician thinks quite highly of him.

Izuna. You there?

Yes! Comiiing!

I brought tea...

Huh? Where'd Aldo and Shigure go?

They left. But that ain't why I called you here. I have a new job for you. I need you to go to Izana and deliver this message.

You want me to go out again? But we just got back...

Are you refusin' an order from a commanding officer?

Nope! Flyin' out now!

The end crowns the work, as they say. I'll leave it up to them to choose the means.

Where are you going?

Brother? What brings you here?

Is it so unusual for a man to want to visit his sister? How have you been faring after... what happened?

I am perfectly fine.

...And it's all thanks to you, Brother. I will spend the rest of my life repaying this debt to you.

I did it because I wanted to. Besides, it is not me who you should be dedicating the rest of your life to, now is it? I heard you two still fight all the time.

Well...

Hey, Shigure. Are you really gonna give up swordfighting?

I wanna be a merchant, just like the person who helped me.

But I dunno if my old man would let me. I mean, I hafta be the next grandmaster after all...

......

Then why don't I do it? I'll be the grandmaster for you!

You? That's impossible. You've never even held a sword before.

I'll be fine! I just gotta work hard! Just like how Brother's working hard at the castle.

Sorry, but...this is more of a family matter.

If that's the case, then...

We can get married! Then I'll be family!

M-Married?! Don't be stupid! There's no way Shion would let that happen.

Do you not wanna marry me, Shigure?

......

Brother. I am not yet fit to be the grandmaster.

What do you mean?

I became Shigure's fiancée so that I could someday become grandmaster and he could fulfill his dream.

But before I could officially succeed the previous grandmaster, he...

I see. Is that why you consider yourself a stand-in?

In order to become the grandmaster, I need Lord Shigure's approval. But our ways of thinking are different. The fact that I am still his fiancée is proof that he does not yet recognize me.

That's why I want you to let me help you quell the rebel army.

And you think I'll allow that, let you expose yourself to danger so soon after coming back to life?

Please, Brother! I promise to be more careful this time!

...I suppose trying to stop you now would be pointless. But do not forget: you have something to protect now.

And though you are a stand-in for the grandmaster, you are first and foremost my sister.

I won't forget, Brother! You have my word!

...It seems the peaceful world I long for is still a distant dream.

Goodness... When will you let me be at peace?

So, any idea how we can find those rebels here?

Hah. Just who do you think you're dealing with, Aldo?

The entrance to their base will undoubtedly be hidden in some way. That's where this will come in handy.

Uh... What is that, exactly?

A high-performance ultrasonic sensor. It can help us find camouflaged areas that aren't visible to the naked eye.

What say we give it a try?

A statue? It doesn't seem out of the ordinary to me.

Yes, but looks can be deceiving.

Heh. Just as I suspected.

Have a look at this statue. Notice anything?

Well...it's not easy to see, but it looks like there's an X on it.

Right. It's likely a mark used by the rebel army. Which means...

Bingo. I knew my wares wouldn't disappoint.

That's incredible. There really is a space back there!

Alas, this isn't the space we're looking for. It appears they've set up several decoys to make it harder to find the real one. We have our work cut out for us, but at least we know what mark to look for.

Got it. Still...

I wish you'd be more careful with those things, regardless of how "handy" they are.

I thought it quite fascinating, but couldn't find the right time or place to use it. I'm glad I brought it with me, though.

How'd you get your hands on something like that?

Hah. Don't sweat the details, my friend.

Now then, let's take a walk and see what we find.

Yeah...

Say, Shigure. Are you not gonna marry Akane?

What's this all of a sudden? We've got an important negotiation ahead of us, and yet that's what you're worried about?

Well, it's just...I couldn't help but wonder after what I saw earlier. Sorry. I guess it's really not my place to ask.

Hm... I don't mind. I'd rather you ask than walk on eggshells around me.

Honestly...I wouldn't mind tying the knot with her. But I don't think she feels the same.

Why not?

She became my fiancée because I wanted to be a merchant. She decided to marry into my family so she could take care of the dojo in my absence. I was still a kid back then. I didn't understand the weight of the promise we made.

......

I believe my path will bring joy to humankind, but Akane's happiness must come first.

But you saw what happened, didn't you? I can't bring a smile to her face with the way I'm doing things now. And I don't deserve to be her husband if all I ever do is upset her.

...You two do seem to be at odds with each other a lot.

I can't take away her future for the sake of my dream. That's why we can only get married when she accepts my way of thinking.

Shigure...

Now then, if you're satisfied, let's be on our way. The sensor will light up and make a sound when we get close to any hidden spaces. Once we've narrowed down the area, we'll have to do a thorough search for the rebels' mark.

Got it.

The sensor will light up and make a sound when we get close to any hidden spaces. Once we've narrowed down the area, we'll have to do a thorough search for the rebels' mark.

Got it.

An entrance to a cave? I can't believe we really found something.

Shigure? Where were you?

Hah. Never you mind that. Let's head in.

I still can't believe their base is in a cave in the Kunlun Mountains.

Being here would make it difficult for Mi to find them. On the other hand, it puts them quite far from Izana. This is likely for the rearguard. They're storing munitions here for when the uprising happens. I imagine they intend to deliver these supplies to the front line when the time comes.

In other words, defeating the rearguard renders the vanguard powerless and spares both Izana and the dojo from harm.

That was impressive.

Hah. I may not be as brilliant as Brother, but any merchant worth his salt can get the general gist of things. Now then, it's time to talk business. Mind your manners, Aldo. We wouldn't want to upset our customers.

Customers?

Are you sure you want to include your sister in the strategy? I know I have no right to speak on the matter, but...didn't you just give up your life to save hers?

I believe this is the best course of action for our nation. We could easily defeat the rebels with the army, but using that method won't change anything.

...I see.

And just sheltering someone all the time can hardly be considered love.

This is also a trial I must undergo for myself.

...Even though you're afraid of losing her. You really are too hard on yourself, Shion.

All right, time to head out. Don't wanna keep the front line waiting.

You sure this is gonna work? We don't have enough manpower or firepower...

Stop worrying! Justice is gonna win the day! Once we join forces with our comrades, we can take down that degenerate Land of Mi and...

Oho, I like your spirit!

I heard you say you're lacking in firepower. Perhaps I can help?

Wait, what?! Shigure...

Who the hell're you? And how'd you get in here?!

You poor, uninformed fools. Have you not heard of the great merchant Shigure?

Wait... I know you! Didn't you used to teach the sword? Heard you fled the castle and started selling all kinds of shady stuff wherever you go.

Guess he really is a merchant, then. But don't think we'll trust you just 'cause you worked with the old lord.

Sounds like a little demonstration is in order. Seeing is believing, after all.

What the?! Was that an explosion?!

Yes, from an extra-large bomb made with extra-special gunpowder. I set off the one I planted just outside.

An extra-large bomb?

Sorry to say, but those pathetic peashooters of yours won't be nearly enough to take back a nation. But my bombs could change the world. I'll even sell them to you for an extra-low price.

......

Fine. We'll take all the bombs you got. But you won't get a single coin until after all's said and done. Got that?

Heh heh. It's a deal.

With bombs this powerful, Izana won't stand a chance.

All right. Let's get all this to the Inanari Plateau! We've kept the vanguard waiting long enough! Once we're all together, we'll take back the town! Are you ready?!

Wait. Just how do you intend to get through Nagsham?

By force! There's no way those complacent fools in Shin could stop us.

You'd be the fools to try something so reckless. I'll speak with the gatekeeper. So keep quiet until you reach the Vermilion Road, you hear?

...Fine. But don't expect extra for it.

You've been awfully quiet. Aren't you going to stop me, Aldo?

I'm sure you've got some sort of plan. But are those bombs the real deal? I'd hate to think of what would happen to Izana if they were.

Heh heh. Are you sure you want to know? That'd spoil the big surprise.

I don't know if I can take another surprise right now...

And bombs in Izana would be a most unwelcome one.

Tsubame?!

We can talk pleasantries later. I bring urgent news from the tactician. The rebels on Inanari Plateau are on the move.

That must be the vanguard they were talking about!

As I suspected. The timing is too perfect to be a coincidence. Once they meet with the rearguard and resupply, they'll launch their attack on Izana.

...There's been an update.

Shigure, it appears your bride-to-be is making for the rebel army, alone.

What?! Why would Akane do that?!

......!

Shigure!

......

...Sorry, but I cannot yield to you, not this path nor my life. I failed in battles past, but no longer. This time, I will help my brother and defend this nation. And once I am through, I can finally call myself...the grandmaster of the Fugen Itto- Ryu!

No...

(This is the same machine from back then...)

(Back when I did not see how precious my life was. When I thought it was a samurai's duty to die by the blade.)

(But...)

How am I alive? I remember being mortally wounded.

Consider it a miracle and try not to sweat the details. Be happy you still live and breathe.

How can I be happy when Brother is in a coma?! Tell me, Lord Shigure. What happened?

...Stop worrying so much. Your brother will wake up, of that much I'm certain. And when he does, we can welcome him back together, Akane.

(Lord Shigure didn't tell me, but I'm sure Brother is the one who brought me back.) (But at what cost?)

I cannot die... This life of mine...belongs to more than just me now!

(Ngh... I should be better than this.) (But those memories are holding me back...)

Master!

No... What are you doing here?!

You looked really worried when you left, so we came to check on you!

We got no clue what's going on here, but they look dangerous. And the odds of you winning against them alone aren't good.

Yeah! So please, let us help!

You need to get away from here as quickly as possible. You're not ready for a real fight!

We know. We can't fight like you can, Master.

But if we work together, we can still protect you! After all, that's why we're learning how to fight, so we can save others, just like you do!

......!

(I see now. The truth of the Fugen Itto-Ryu.)

...Thank you.

I finally understand what I need to do!

How underwhelming.

Lord Shigure!

Shigure! Is Akane okay?!

She's fine, as you can see. I rushed over because I was worried, but it seems I wasn't needed.

...Yes.

I will not lose ever again. For the Fugen Itto-Ryu sword that I wield...

Is one of life!

...Heh. There is no good or evil in war. And though it goes against my aesthetic to use brute force to settle things...

You hurt my bride-to-be. And for that, I must end you with my own two hands!

Together, Akane!

Hyah!

Master... That was incredible!

I don't think so!

Heh. Hold on just a minute, Aldo. All the pieces are in place, thanks to us. Now it's time to watch the grand finale.

Skyward! That's where!

Hahaha! A thing of beauty, no? This is the debut of the Fugen Company's celestial fireworks. Remember it well! They're no ordinary aerials, either. They're supersized and supercharged, bursting all the way out in space.

They do?

Indeed. And I just got my hands on these fine items, too, from an artisan in the future. They're just like the moon, visible to anyone anywhere above ground.

Can you imagine anything more beautiful?

I was wondering what all the commotion was about.

Unfortunately for you, I already know all about your plans. I considered dispatching the army to handle this, but... Should I take these fireworks to mean you surrender? If that is the case, then I accept.

Hey, Shion. What happened with the rebels?

They've all been imprisoned. Their sentence will be decided later, but I can't imagine it will be anything too severe. You were able to stop them before they did any harm, after all.

Heh. Well, this is just what you can expect when working with our wares. All the hatred in their hearts vanished the instant they saw those majestic fireworks!

I don't know if it's quite that simple, but...

I'll agree they were pretty.

Weren't they just? And trust me, the hearts of men are unexpectedly simple. Tell me, Brother. You knew this would happen, didn't you? That you'd be able to stop the rebellion without using the army.

Most of the rebels were people whose lives had been completely changed by the war. Forcefully suppressing them would sow even greater distrust throughout the nation. I wanted it resolved as peacefully as possible.

That makes sense. I guess it's a good thing Akane and Shigure managed to handle it, then.

It wasn't their victory alone. The students of the Fugen Dojo helped. And having ordinary citizens stand and fight is especially meaningful.

Seeing their courage and hearing their words helped me realize something about the future of the Fugen Itto-Ryu. It is not a style meant to take lives. It is one that protects both self and others. It is a path that trains the mind and disciplines the body.

It is an art and a way of the sword that exists for that purpose alone.

A way of the sword, huh...

Lord Shigure. Allow me to apologize.

Oh? Whatever for?

I thought you did not see me worthy of being the grandmaster. No, perhaps I was the one who had doubts... But I have finally made up my mind. I am ready to lead the Fugen Dojo.

...Is that all?

...What do you mean?

You and I are much the same. For so long, I thought you sacrificed yourself to make my dream come true. ...That is why I could not follow through.

I never once thought I was sacrificing anything for you! You dream of a free future. And if there were someone in that world who continued the Fugen style, then... I cannot imagine anything better.

...I'm sure it'll still be there in the future.

(The Fugen Itto-Ryu in the future...)

I'm sure it'll still be there. There's bound to be a samurai or two still using that style.

Haha! And who knows? By that time, swordplay might even be considered a sport! That's a beautiful vision for the future. It's exactly what I need for the world I want to create.

But what I need more than anything is...

......

*sigh*

What's the matter, Shion? It sounds like you've got something on your mind.

...I apologize. Aldo, would you mind listening to an older brother's ramblings?

Of course. I'd be happy to.

For a long time, I thought it would be enough so long as Akane lived. But after she passed, I began to wish more and more for her happiness.

I know how you feel. It wasn't for very long, but...my sister passed away too.

I've got my own little sister, so I can understand how you feel.

That's why I'm so relieved.

No matter what plans I make, their hearts remain unchanged...

You and I haven't agreed on much lately.

Akane. As you know, I like people who fascinate me, Like Brother and Aldo. And you, of course.

Me? Fascinating? I do not know if I agree...

Whether or not you are doesn't matter.

Because I love you, Akane, for who you are. From the bottom of my heart. So please...stay by my side. Walk this path with me.

...Of course.

I would like nothing more, Lord Shigure.

Aldooo! Over here!

Is this everyone? We seem to be missing someone important.

Yeah, I went lookin' for him, but no luck. Just where is he?!

D-Do you think this outfit is appropriate? And what about a present...

Haha. Calm down, you're fine just as you are. And showin' up with a smile is the best gift by far.

Right. C'mon, then. Let's head to the Cat Shrine!

The bride and groom will now exchange their vows.

To my wife, Akane... I vow to share in both life's highs and lows with you, and walk beside you for all time.

To my husband, Shigure... I vow to be someone you can lean on, just as you are to me, and carve a path into the future together, come what may.

I now declare you man and wife. May the mother goddess smile upon you both as you begin your new life together.

That was such a beautiful ceremony! Akane was absolutely stunning!

Indeed she was. I'd like to wear somethin' that fancy when marryin' my destiny.

But you are already dressed in something similar. I think it rather beautiful.

I could say the same for you, Yukino! You look super cute, just like a princess!

And here I am, wearin' the same-ol' clothes as always. It's kinda embarrassing...

Haha. If you want somethin' pretty 'n' new, why not have Senya choose it for you?

Huh? Why would I ask him? I doubt he'd go shoppin' with me for any reason...

Hehe. I think Kagurame is on to something. Senya would look good in traditional robes, so the two of you would be a pretty pair.

A...pair?

Hey, wait a sec! We're not like that!

*sniffle* Miss Akane... *sob*

All right, all right! We all agree she looked incredible at the wedding, but haven't you cried enough already?

I'm just so happy for her... It feels like...she's out of reach now... Waaah!

Just leave her be. There's nothing either of us can do about it now.

No! You mustn't...

...ne...

Akane...!

...... Oh no... It seems he isn't the only one... When I imagine Suzume getting married, I...

I... *sniffle* Suzume...!

Isn't this amazing, Akane? Though the fireworks appear close, they're actually bursting in space. To make this happen, each firework is equipped with a micro-booster and jet mechanism that sends them straight up. The explosive sound is reproduced by AI and broadcast all over the land via hyper- directional speakers. It's quite costly, but well worth it.

Unfortunately, I have no idea what you just said, Lord Shigure.

But it's plain to see that your dreams are lighting up the night sky. And they are beautiful to behold.

...Heh. That's enough for me. These fireworks are blooming even further away than they appear. Which means that anyone on Garulea can see them, wherever or whoever they may be.

That is truly wonderful.

I want to prove to you that even transient fireworks like these can light up the world for centuries to come. I want you to show you a world where everyone can look up at the sky and smile, just like this.

Lord Shigure...

......

May I say something?

I am so happy right now. To be a part of your dreams, your future... Your life.

...As am I.

Whoa-hoa! Fireworks!

Suzaku, are you seeing this?! They're sooo pretty!

...Yes, I can see them. There is no need to shout. Such beauty ought to be appreciated in silence and solitude...

No way! We're watching it together! C'mon, hurry up!

...You truly are a selfish princess. Very well. I will join you shortly.

I wish I could watch 'em with the others... I better hurry and get back.

Hey, Suzaku... Can you see 'em too?

Fireworks... I guess that means they managed to stop the rebel army after all.

They certainly are beautiful. The fact that they're so brief is what makes them shine all the more bright. Just like human life.

Sen, wherever you are... Can you see them too?

Tch... Where the hell's Izuna?

Came all this way 'cause I thought she'd be cryin' her eyes out up here all alone. Guess I was worried about nothin'. I mean, after what we went through...

Yip! Yip, yip!

Haha! They're pretty, huh, Kuramaru? Wonder who's puttin' on the show.

...Kinda weird, but I get the feelin' everyone's lookin' at the sky now, thinkin' the same thing. You are too, right, Rei?

Are you watching, Father? Grandfather? You wanted us to support each other and live our lives to the fullest.

You don't have to worry about a thing. I promise we're going to be just fine.

Whew. Made it back. Honestly wasn't sure what would happen at the start, but...they seem so happy together. I'm really glad for them.

Still... I wonder if maybe someday I'll get married too.

Haha! Nah, I can't imagine tying the knot just yet.

Guess I better let Shigure know what happened. He said he's got his hands full with Akane, so he's probably at the dojo right about now.

D-Do my ears deceive me? It sounded like he was talking about...marriage!

Aldo... Could it be you're going to propose soon?

There is much to do before the wedding! I must begin preparations right away!

Did I just hear him mention tying the knot?!

Oh my gosh! I have to tell Grandpa!