Wings of Heaven
Author's comments: This is a fanfiction on the hit anime series, Angle
Layer. This fic does have Shoujo Ai content. So, if you don't like stuff
like this, then please leave. Otherwise enjoy the fic. Be gentle dear
readers and read this with an open mind.
side note = Buranche is Blanche, it's just a different spelling as i
used the real french term rather than the japanese equivilant. Just a
note to keep in mind
This fanfiction is dedicated to my brother Tony, who helped with ideas.
He is the most uber and coolest dude there is. And this is also
dedicated to Heather of the Amazoness Duo, who inspired me to write. May
she find the 'Sakura' in her life and know happiness.
Prologue
The world is progressing day by day. Within it, the thing that continues
to progress the most is electronic technology, and in that- its
connection to toys. Now, the number one thing this is leading to is a
"World of Toys." The first of these toys is the egg that came from a
dream, "Angel Egg." If one with an egg shows wisdom, love, and courage,
they can raise it into an "angel." That's Angelic Layer.
----------
Blackness...darkness...burning, swirling...that was the way I saw
everything when I was not being used by my deus...my beloved creator and
deus, Misaki Suzuhara who was fondly nicknamed Misakichi. Whether I was
being carried around or resting or lying down upon somewhere, I could
not tell where I was. I could hear as Misaki rushed around doing
something. A party...I believe that's what she told me this morning as
she awoke. But why was it then that I felt excitement? I was just an
angel, wasn't I? I couldn't...shouldn't feel any emotions. But if that
was so...then what was that sound?
Dokidoki...
Had I been unaware of my surroundings, as limited as it were as of
the moment, I could hear that sound...
Dokidoki... Dokidoki...
It was a familiar sound. It was not foreign, nor endangering to
me...for I had heard it many times when I lay close to Misaki as she
slept. But why would I hear a heartbeat? I'm merely an angel...I'm not
living. Although at times, I wonder why I can think to myself like I'm
doing right now. I don't know when it started, but I have a feeling that
it happened after I got my wings. Feeling? I'm an angel...I'm not
supposed to be able to feel anything. After all, I'm not human...right?
What...what is wrong with me? Why am I able to feel like this? I can
hear another sound in the quiet silence. It is also another sound that
I've heard before. I believe that Misaki called it doorbell. It's used
when one gets visitors. I don't know how much time before I hear the
doorbell once again. This time after I heard the door close, I heard
footsteps approaching. The soft steps that I've grown accustomed to
being Misaki's. I could feel myself being gently lifted up in those
soft, if somewhat big fingers of Misaki's. As I lay there in her hands,
I could feel the wind softly blow my hair around as Misaki bore me off
to...where I don't know. All of a sudden I could hear...hear much more
noise than that of before. It wasn't the cheers of fans in some
tournament; so I assumed it was either the TV or the friends that Misaki
told me about this morning at had arrived. It was apparent that her
friends were playing with other angels on the portable layer that deus
Misaki had at home. After a few minutes had passed, at least I thought
it was a few minutes; it was hard to tell time in darkness. I felt the
cool rush of wind on my face again as Misaki put me down somewhere. I
could tell that it was the feel of something soft as I laid
down...carpet, I thought. From somewhere up high, I could hear Misaki's
childish voice speaking...her words drifting to my ear...
"Come now, everyone," said Misaki with a clap. "Time for dinner."
There was a cheer...Tamayo, I suspected. She loved deus' Misaki's
food so much. I smiled inwardly...so much happiness. Was this what it
meant to be human? To be able to feel, think and experience? Lost in my
thoughts, I suddenly found that the company that Misaki had moved
elsewhere. I was suddenly struck with a notion...if I were able to
think, feel and experience things that no other angel could, did that
mean that I could possibly see as well? My eyes were closed at the
moment, but did not matter. I had to try. I summoned all my feelings to
try to open my eyes so that I may see into the world. At first I could
feel that my eyes were clenching, tensing...Slowly, oh so slowly, my
eyes opened. I could finally see what were I was. Opening my eyes fully
and blinking...I could blink just like I've seen people do, I looked
around. Everything looked so big, but then again everything to me has
always been big. I was just an angel after all. I can't begin to
describe my feelings, my joy of being able to see and not just being
limited to the layer...it was indescribable. Was this how people felt?
Now, I had to wonder...if I could see, could I move under my own power?
I had my doubts about this one, but I concentrated...tried to move my
arms, my legs, just like Misaki controlled me in layer. I looked down at
my arms as I suddenly felt my hand clenching and making a fist. I
unclenched and tried my left hand as well. It worked...I could actually
move on my own. I was thrilled. Now if I could stand. Thinking, willing
my legs to move, I could see as I brought my legs up and moving my arms,
I wrapped my arms around my legs as I brought them up.
Now I smiled. This was great! I was moving like a person. How I
could control myself without Misaki was something that wasn't lost on
me. I constantly wondered how I could do this. I had spotted the
portable layer behind me. I had been propped up against the side of it,
but I had moved myself out and away from the layer side just a little
bit. Getting an idea, I rolled onto my back and threw my arms back, palm
side up beside my head. Bringing my legs up, I arched my back up before
throwing my legs back down in an angle as I used my hands to push up. I
believe I heard people and deus call this move a kip-hop. Finally I was
standing, but for a little while I wobbled, as I could not get my
balance. Flailing my arms a bit in effort to keep my balance, I finally
stood up straight. I had to admit that it was like standing in the
layer, except I wasn't in the layer at all. I glanced around me...where
were the other angels? After a second pass of glancing around, I could
see the other angels propped against the layer as well. I noticed that
the only angel that was even close to me was the white angel that
belonged to the deus Kaede Saito...Blanche. The other angels were on the
other side...
I wondered...could other angels move just like I did? Surely the
others deus loved their angels and cared for them as much as Misaki
cared for me, surely they could do what I was able to do...couldn't
they? Turning to my nearest companion, the white angel, Blanche, I knelt
down next to her side. It was obvious that Kaede loved her and took care
of her. Blanche was lying down, her head propped up against the portable
layer's side. Her hands were folded in her lap and she seemed peaceful.
For some reason, I felt compelled to say something...anything. But could
I speak? It was something that I never considered. I needed to try...
"Ah..."
I was startled. Did I really have the function to talk? To speak?
I had to try again to make sure it wasn't a fluke...
"Ah..."
It wasn't fluke...I really could talk? Now, I must say that I'm
just angel, but after discovering I could somewhat speak, I felt faint.
I guess it was a little overwhelming? I just stood for a minute, trying
to contain the joy that I felt that I was able to speak...well, able to
with practice. Shaking myself out of my reverie, I glanced down at
Blanche. Could she move and talk like I could? Could the other angels do
like I did? Well, there was one way to find out, even though I hated to
disturb Blanche...she looked so cute, just lying there. Cute? Where had
that thought come from? Shaking my head to clear my thoughts, I knelt
down next to her...Blanche. I reached out with a shaky hand and touched
her on the shoulder, trying to rouse her. What was I so nervous about
anyway? I shook Blanche gently. I waited, seeing if she would react.
Slowly, just as slowly as I had done, Blanche opened her beautiful
orange tinted eyes. She took my breath away for just an instant as I
looked at her silently...
* * *
Slowly, I awoke. Had Kaede-sama summoned me to fight for her
again? If that was so, then why couldn't I move? Blinking, I looked
around as much as I could. Let me see...familiar ceiling; Misaki-sama's
home. Why was I here? Thinking back, I recalled Kaede-sama telling me
about a party she was going to later that day. Was she at Misaki-sama's
home? Apparently so, since I glanced to my right and there was Misaki's
angel, Hikaru. I blinked again. She was just kneeling...looking at me. I
could feel myself being drawn into those pink, light crimson eyes of
hers. My breath caught in my throat as she smiled at me...
* * *
She was awake. Blanche had woken up. There were other angels like
me! Not knowing what else to do, I smiled at her. After a minute, I saw
that Blanche was not smiling at all. She still had that neutral look on
her face. Almost frowning, I stood up and offered my hand. Surely, she
could move...right?
* * *
I felt suddenly uncomfortable. I blinked. When did angels have the
ability to feel unless their deus felt something? I could see that
Hikaru was obviously not in the layer, as I was not as well. Hikaru had
offered me her hand to help me up. She must have thought that I could
move as she could. Summoning my strength, I tried my best to lift at
least my hand...
* * *
I took a closer look at Blanche. I don't know, but she looked a
little nervous, even a little uncomfortable. I knelt back down at
Blanche's side. I was worried...what was wrong? I caught Blanche's eyes
occasionally glancing down. Following her gaze, I looked down. Blinking,
I saw her arms twitch, relax and then fall limp. Looking at her legs, I
saw the same thing happening. Poor Blanche. She couldn't move like I
did...not without the layer, I realized. Glancing up, I saw that
Misaki-chan and her friends had left the layer on. The proverbial light
bulb switched on as I got an idea. Kneeling down once again, I slid one
of my arms under Blanche's legs. Using my other arm to support Blanche
from behind, I lifted her up into my arms...
* * *
I feel myself being lifted by Hikaru. Hikaru didn't look that
strong, but I knew she was. I would have gasped if I could for Hikaru
had leapt high toward the layer...
* * *
I crouched and concentrated. Using the strength that came from
being a speed type angel, I leapt up toward the layer. It wasn't that
high, but since I was on normal ground, I had to take other precautions.
As I shot into the air, I could feel the wind stinging my cheeks and it
felt wonderful. As we began our descent, I could feel as Blanche gained
control of her limbs and her body, for she clutched me around the neck
with her arms. I smiled as I came to a gentle landing on my feet and I
let Blanche down on the layer. Her eyes said thank you and she gave a
smile that I had seen on only one other person, Kaede Saito-san. It was
the blessed 'Heaven's Smile' and for a minute I could not say anything
or think of anything. That smile took my breath away and I didn't even
realize that I was blushing until Blanche walked forward and touched my
cheeks softly with her gloved hands. I turned away so Blanche wouldn't
see the blush on my cheeks. Peeking back at her, I saw Blanche tilt her
head a little, curiously. I turned back. Hopefully the blush was gone. I
decided to say something. Perhaps she could speak if she saw that I
could too. What could I say? What...?
"Bla...Blanche."
Was that my voice? I didn't know I sounded like that. It
felt...nice to know that I could speak. I saw Blanche blink in surprise.
I guess she was wondering how I could speak at all...
* * *
I blinked. Did Hikaru just speak? My thoughts were running
rampant. When did angels speak? How did Hikaru do that? Her voice
sounded heavenly and SO sweet. I didn't know if I could talk, but if
Hikaru could then perhaps I could. I smiled and clapped my hands. It was
just amazing. I nodded...I hope Hikaru understood that she had gotten my
name right...
* * *
Oh be still my beating heart...that was my first thought as
Blanche smiled that heavenly smile again. I hoped she liked my voice. I
think she understood. I got her name right then...I hope. Pointing at
myself, I wanted to tell her my name...
"Hi...Hikaru."
I waited. Hopefully, Blanche could pick up on the language and
started talking to me too. I clasped my hands together, waiting...
* * *
I nodded happily. I sure hope I could do this. I took a breath and
tried to speak, but nothing happened. Blinking I touched my throat. Was
something wrong with my voice? I suddenly felt so upset that I couldn't
talk to Hikaru. My feelings must have been apparent on my face for when
I looked up Hikaru looked sad...
* * *
I felt bad and looked down at the shining layer.
Blanche...COULDN'T talk at all? Why couldn't she? Why? Why? Now I felt
SO bad for talking at all. I heaved a sigh and wondered how Blanche
could be made to talk? If I could learn enough, I could teach her. Now I
gave myself a mental boot to the head. If I could have Misaki-chan teach
me, I could teach Blanche. Hearing a sudden noise loud enough to reach
me, since I could tell it came from the direction of the dining room, I
got worried. Were Misaki-chan and her friends already done? I glanced at
Blanche and my worries were well founded. Blanche was clearly worried
and so was I. I had to act fast or else Blanche and I were going to be
discovered. Looking into Blanche's eyes for an instant, I could see that
she understood what I was about to do. Quickly, I dashed over to her
position and with one smooth motion; Blanche was in my arms again. She
clung tight to me as I made for the outside of the layer...
* * *
I felt something was wrong when Hikaru looked at me. She was
worried and it showed in her eyes. I nodded slightly to tell her I
understood. In the blink of an eye, I was in her arms. Clutching her
tightly, I watched as the edge of the layer drew closer and closer. The
instant, Hikaru passed through the edge of the layer, I could feel
myself losing control of my arms, legs, but Hikaru held on to me
tightly. She would not let me go and I knew she would not leave me until
I was safe. How did I know? I guess you could call it hunch...
* * *
I jumped off the side of the layer and I could feel Blanche go
limp in my arms for without the layer, she was helpless. I couldn't
leave her. I knew in my heart that I had to protect her. I could move
without the layer. It was up to me and only me. I landed softly on the
carpet. I knew that Blanche was sitting close to about...there. I
quickly laid her down, making sure that she wasn't hurt by my swiftness.
I could hear the slap of the slippers that Misaki and her guests all
wore...they were getting too close for comfort. I glanced back at
Blanche, who just glanced up at me from her limited view and I saw in
her eyes her thanks. I folded her hands in her lap and then Blanche
closed her eyes, now no more to other people a regular angel. The
footsteps grew still closer and I jumped back to my position and sat
down near Blanche. I let myself go limp and closed my eyes. The
darkness...blackness...for so long, I was used to it. Now, it is a part
of me just like the new world that was opened up to me. I thank
Misaki-chan all the time for bringing me life. She was my creator and I
thank her. I can hear now that Misaki and the others have returned. They
bustle about us, but I cannot feel the gentle hands that are
Misaki-chan's. Perhaps I expect her to pick me, perhaps have a battle in
the layer, but no. A minute or two later I can hear the people move away
from my position. Taking a risk I turned and peeked. Blanche was gone. I
heaved a sigh in relief since I knew what that meant. Kaede-san must
have picked her up and gone home. I wonder why Misaki hasn't done the
same with me yet. I could hear her bustling about the place. What was
wrong? I hope she didn't forget about me. I kicked myself mentally as
that thought sunk in. She would never do that...not Misaki-chan.
A few minutes later, although it felt like an eternity, especially
in darkness, Misaki came and picked me up. She told me how she was sorry
that she ignored me for that long duration and I had stop myself before
I could tell her it wasn't her fault. I could feel her soft fingers as
she held me gently and bore me off again. I knew where she was headed.
She was headed to either her room or the bathroom, but most likely her
room first, to get her clothes for bed. As she walked, she told me about
how the party went well, which I was happy for. I had hoped the party
went well for her. She then told me about the little game they played
with the layer, although I remember vaguely playing it myself before. I
could feel myself now descending and being gently laid down on something
soft. It was probably Misaki-chan's bed or her pillow...
"I'll be back after my shower," said Misaki cheerfully.
I was happy...very happy in fact. My deus' party went well and I
learned to see a whole new world that was now open to me. Not only that,
but I got to meet the white angel, Blanche. I waited until the water was
running in the bathroom next door, to open my eyes and look around. It
was a new environment, but I think I saw it once before when I first
opened my eyes that time I became Misaki-chan's angel. I took a good
look around this time. I let me see...Misaki's desk with her computer
and more Angelic Layer things...I think. I flopped back on her bed and
smiled warmly. Her bed felt so comfortable and...soft, I think the word
is. I'm so glad I can experience so much now and I was so lost in my own
thoughts, that I didn't even hear Misaki come back until it was too
late. I leapt to my feet as Misaki approached the position I had last
been in. Lost as I was in my thoughts I had moved to the edge of her
bed. I ran back across the soft sheets as Misaki froze in her tracks as
she had spotted my movements. I paused, unsure of whether to keep moving
or not. So instead, I smiled up at my creator...
"Misaki."
Her reaction was immediate...
"Eeks! Hikaru...angel...talk..."
I hope I didn't shock the poor girl. I decide to approach her
carefully. After all, she was my deus and I hoped she wouldn't hurt
me...
"Misakichi."
"Eeks! Hikaru...moving..."
I guess I had more of an impact on her than I thought. I really
hope I didn't scare her, but she wasn't running away. She was just
standing there, spluttering in awe and amazement...I think. So,
crouching down, I leapt up high toward Misaki's hand that was pointing
at me. She reacted and caught me with her palm side up. She blinked as I
continued to talk in what limited Japanese I knew...
"Misaki...teach."
"Teach?"
I think I just confused the poor girl even more now. Let me
see...how could I convince Misaki on what to do...on what I wanted.
After thinking for a bit, I decided to tell her...
"Misaki...teach...talk."
I hope I got the words out correctly. I could see her eyes had
taken on a far away gaze as she just stared at the window behind
me...almost if as if she didn't believe that this was happening. I hope
she would come to her senses. I so desperately wanted to be able to
learn how to talk. I got down on my knees and threw my last resort at
her. I clasped my hands together, looked up at her and gave the kawaii
puppy dog eyes that I've seen some people use before. As I saw her
glance back down at me, I could see her giving in. I hope it worked. My
joy was indescribable as Misaki smiled down at me and nodded her head...
"Hai...I will."
She said yes. Oh, how wonderful! I could start being able to learn
how to speak and communicate. Oh, wait a minute; I had to thank Misaki.
I wracked my head trying to think of the right words...
"Arigato."
From the smile on her face, I knew that I had gotten the word
right. Misaki set me back down on her bed and then turned to a little
closet that looked about my size that was sitting on her nightstand. My
curiosity was eased as she pulled out some pajamas that she had made for
me. I smiled and took them. As Misaki turned away to put on her own
pajamas, I peeked at her. I suddenly noticed that her pajamas were the
same as mine. At least it showed that she cared for me by making them. I
proceeded to take off my battle outfit. I let my body suit fall while
taking off my gloves and boots and putting them aside. I unfolded the
pajamas and slipped into them as I saw Misaki do a while ago. I hoped I
did it right. As I finished, Misaki took my battle clothes and put them
away in that small closet. I had just finished buttoning my pajama top
when Misaki gently picked me up and set me down on her pillow. I guess
it was for my safety because she slipped into her bed covers seconds
after putting me down. It felt like an earthquake to me as she got under
the covers, but I managed to keep my grip on the pillow. As Misaki drew
the covers up, I settled down into the soft warm pillow and Misaki
turned the light out. She covered as gently and as much as she knew I
liked to be covered before speaking...
"I'll promise to teach you everything I can."
"Arigato."
* * *
It was hard learning to speak after all. It had been a few
months...several weeks in fact; that I could now properly say some
sentences and talk normally. It was thrilling in a way. I could talk and
move. For some reason, I found out that I could dance as Misaki was
playing a song this one time. My body just moved...it seemed almost
natural. But I digress...I looked from the last lesson that Misaki was
talking about and teaching. I nodded, understanding the syntax...
"Well, that's about it," said Misaki, sitting back in her chair. "I
think if you learn some vocabulary every now and then, you'll get
better."
"Domo arigato."
It was all I could say. I really didn't know how to repay Misaki
for helping me out so much. The only thing I could think of was to help
her out as much as I could in Angelic Layer...
"No need to be so formal."
Misaki's voice brought me back to my senses. I accidentally bowed
instinctively since it was Japanese custom. I straightened up and nodded
before speaking...
"Now, if you don't mind, I'd like to ask a favor."
I felt so guilty. Misaki devoted a lot of her time and attention
to me and now I was asking for her help again. But Misaki just smiled
down at me from her position...
"Nan desu ka?"
"I'd like you to...ano..."
"Like me to what?"
"Ano...I want to see Blanche."
"Hmm...why her?"
I knew Misaki was going to ask that question. I couldn't face
Misaki without answering. But if I answered, Misaki would probably think
of me as strange. I scuffed the top of Misaki's desk with my boot. I was
trying to think of an answer that I could use when I noticed Misaki's
face was about face level with mine...
"Hikaru...are you blushing?"
"Sonaka ja nai yo!"
I frantically waved my hands in front of me, trying to dispel
whatever Misaki thought I was thinking of. It didn't work because she
immediately launched into another question...
"Uh-huh, so why do you want to go see Blanche?"
"Well, I sort of made friends with her at the party."
This was mostly true since we spent the party in each other's
company. I hoped Misaki bought that. I could see the hint of surprise in
Misaki's eyes now...
"How?"
I quickly explained how I found out I could move and that Blanche
was lying right next to me. Not to mention the fact, I wanted to see if
any other angels could do the same as I could...
"You took her into the layer, didn't you?"
"Hai."
"That's great. It's great to make friends."
I nodded happily. I guess Misaki bought my explanation. I sighed
inwardly with relief. Glancing up I saw Misaki's face had grown somewhat
serious...
"What's on your mind?"
"Oh, I was thinking how I was going to explain this."
"Eh?"
"About you being alive and all."
"Oh."
There was a silence. I was actually wondering myself how Misaki
was going to explain it...or even how I was going to explain it. What
scientists wanted to do studies on me? What if I would never see Misaki
again? No...that was absurd. I was Misaki's angel and I knew if they
were going to try and take me away, they were going to have to go
through Misaki and her friends first...
"Perhaps..."
I looked up. Was Misaki a mind reader? No...I could tell that she
had something different on her mind. Don't ask me how, but I knew...
"Hai?"
I concentrated for a bit and felt the familiar feeling of angel
wings spouting out of my back. I flew over to Misaki, who had
transferred over to the bed. I landed next to Misaki's head and withdrew
my wings into me. I was curious to hear what Misaki had to say...
"Perhaps it was when you earned your angel wings."
Seeing the confused look on my face, Misaki explained. Going
beyond what my original programming was set to? Was that possible? I had
to think about it for a minute before Misaki interrupted my thoughts
again...
"Okay."
Okay...okay what? What was Misaki talking about? I stayed silent
and just watched as Misaki turned over on her stomach to look at me with
a smile...
"I'll take you to see Blanche."
"Domo arigato."
I clasped my hands and thanked heaven and my deus for being so
kind...
"Do itashimashite."
Misaki then leaned over and grabbed the phone. I walked to the
other side of the bed and toward the window. As Misaki talked, I sat
down on the edge of the bed with one of my legs dangling over the edge.
As the light breeze blew through the open window, I had to put my hair
back to the way it was. I could see the sun outside and it was
beautiful. Today was going to be just gorgeous...I just knew it would...
* * *
I slowly opened my eyes. Apparently Misaki kept her promise. I was
in someone's room and it wasn't Misaki's. I concluded that it was
Kaede-sama's room since Blanche lay propped up against a portable layer
to my right. I looked up at the layer. It was on. Bless Misaki's kind
heart...she turned it on me. Shaking Blanche a little bit on the
shoulders, I roused her from her sleep...
"Blanche...Blanche, ookiteru kudasai"
* * *
I slowly awoke. Again I could not feel my body. I must be outside
the layer again. Glancing up, I saw Hikaru's kind smile. I would have
started, if I had been able to. When did Hikaru get here? Did Misaki
bring her? I had no answers to the questions because Hikaru suddenly
picked me and we were headed for the layer...
* * *
I jumped up and set Blanche down. That smile...that heavenly
smile. Oh how I loved her so. But I couldn't tell her...not just yet.
For her to understand me, I had to teach her what I knew and what
Misaki-chan taught me. I took a deep breath and hoped Misaki taught me
well...
"Blanche, mitte...I can speak."
I could see the excitement in Blanche's eyes for she clapped
joyfully and smiled again. I started to instruct her on how to talk and
to my surprise, she picked it up rather easily at which I was happy for.
I began to teach her all I knew...and I hoped she would be able to use
it...
* Time Passes... *
I don't know how long it had been, but the turning of the bedroom
knob startled me out of the teaching mood. I swiftly turned my head and
I could see that the knob was starting to turn. I had no time left. I
had to act now before Blanche and I were discovered. I knew it might not
be Misaki-chan since this was Kaede-sama's home. I quickly told Blanche
the situation as I scooped her up in my arms. I jumped off the side of
the layer and lay Blanche back down again in the same position she was
in. I jumped to the side a bit, and sat down next to Blanche, closing my
eyes. Not a moment too soon for the door opened all the way and I heard
the slap at least three pairs of slippers on the floor. I hope we looked
like normal angels because none of them were talking. I felt myself
being lifted. I knew who it was. I could feel the soft and gentle hands
of my deus Misaki-chan. I heard her bid farewell to her friends and
start to go home. I couldn't have asked for a better day. It was time
well spent...
* * *
Days pass and it was time for the Tag Team Tournament that Misaki
had told me about. I did not mind since I was paired with Blanche, much
to my excitement the first time I heard it. Now I was within a place
that I knew well. The layer for the fighting tournaments and I reveled
in it. I stood now in the layer with Blanche who wasn't looking nervous
at all. I faced our opponents. Quinn and Shadow Panther they were
called. I just hope I wasn't going to hurt them too badly...
"Angelic Fight!"
The call was made. It was time to fight this tournament. I had to
step to one side to narrowly avoid a whiplash from Quinn. I was
surprised as Shadow Panther closed in quickly with a clothesline. I
ducked and grabbed the extended arm of Shadow Panther and redirected the
attack. I kicked her toward Blanche, who countered with a double drop
kick to Shadow Panther's face. Shadow Panther had reeled back, but by
then I had focused on Quinn, who now came rushing at me with both whips
flying. I dodged but I knew I couldn't stay away forever...
* * *
As I jumped into the air, I flipped backwards to deliver a double
drop missile kick to Shadow Panther. I landed on my hands and flipped
back to my feet. I watched both my opponents. Quinn's two whips were
holding off Hikaru from what I could see. I had to help her. Rushing
forward, I activated my special ability: Hyper Mode. Running up to Quinn
at twice the normal speed, I grabbed her and forced her away from my
beloved Hikaru. I began to cut loose with punches and kicks so fast that
all I could see was a blur from my hands and legs. Finally, I stopped
and Quinn dropped to the ground, all her health points depleted. I
sighed and deactivated Hyper Mode...
* * *
I blinked as I saw Blanche go into Hyper Mode and start wailing on
Quinn, so I took the opportunity and turned on Shadow Panther. As she
came at me, I ducked away and tripped her. This was the chance I had
been waiting for. I grabbed one of Shadow Panther's feet and twisted it
in the other direction. I could see her lurch in pain, for this was a
submission move. I felt Misaki's guidance and I twisted a bit more. Out
of the corner of my eye, I saw Quinn drop to the layer, defeated. I
decided to take a moment and talk to my opponent...
"Give up."
For a minute, Shadow Panther resisted. Finally she tapped the
ground in pain, telling me to let go...
"Hikaru, Blanche...WIN!"
I heard the announcement that we had won. I dropped Shadow
Panther's foot and walked over to Blanche. I knew she loved me, but then
why was I so hesitant to say it myself? As we hugged gently, Misaki and
Kaede made their way to us...
* * *
I must admit that we made a good team. Blanche and I defeated
every tag team duel we've come across. We even came up with a few new
tag-team fighting tactics together. One of which involved, I used
Blanche's Hyper Mode for a split second before flipping our opponent
over toward Blanche. Blanche returned the favor by grabbing and kicking
our opponent back toward me. In which case, I slammed my hands into the
layer, creating a whirlwind of energy to rise up. I called it Raising
Storm...at least I think that's what I think the other guy called it...
* The Final Round... *
Finally, it was the final round. It was Blanche and I against the
Fujisaki sisters' angels, Mao and Arisu. I had faced them both before
and I could tell that they were not going to go down easy. They were the
winners from the B-side of the arena as we were the winners from the A
side. As the fight started, Arisu decided to start off with a flip kick
toward me, which was a big mistake since I blocked and countered with a
flip kick...
"Ora!"
That kick knocked Arisu to the layer hard. I could tell that from
the way Arisu was knocked into the layer with a crunch. I raised my
right leg and tried to stomp Arisu, but she rolled out of the way...
* * *
As I watched Hikaru take Arisu, Mao charged at me quickly. I
danced out of the way from a punch thrown by Mao. Using something that
Hikaru taught me, I grabbed Mao's punching arm and flipped Mao to the
ground. Mao rolled away and regrouped with Arisu. I was wary and stayed
on guard...
* * *
I stayed on guard. From experience I knew that these two had a lot
of stamina and could give as good as they got. I watched as they
regrouped near Blanche. I tensed up since I knew they might attack her,
so I wasn't completely taken by surprised as they launched a double
flying kick at me. I blocked as much as I could, but my arms hurt as
they sent me flying backward. I could see the edge of the layer getting
closer and closer as I flew. No...I would not abandon Blanche! I dug my
hands into the layer and managed to halt my fall...
"Blanche...I won't abandon you!"
* * *
"Hikaru..."
I was worried there, but I knew she wouldn't abandon me. She would
never do such a thing. I could tell that she loved me as much as I loved
her. I watched as she sped to my side. She looked me over...I think she
was checking me for damage. She seemed satisfied that I had not been
hurt. I saw Mao leap into the air. I quickly moved to counter her move
while I saw Hikaru move to stop Arisu. I grabbed Mao's foot and swung
her back down toward Hikaru...
* * *
I grabbed Arisu and sent her flying with a grab throw. Out of the
corner of my eye, I saw Mao head straight for me. I leaned back and
flipped quickly, throwing my foot out. I felt satisfaction when my
Rolling Thunder attack connected. What I had not counted on was their
final counter attack. I saw Mao streak past me down toward the layer,
slamming a palm into the ground. As I fell back toward the layer, I
suddenly felt the painful blows as Arisu kicked me many times...many
painful times. I tried to block, but my left arm couldn't take much
more. I could swear that it felt like Arisu was breaking it. What
happened next was something I could not describe how painful it was to
me. I could feel a heat wave wash over me. It burned, it seared and it
scorched. I was vaguely aware of a hit to my back as my shoulder pads
were burned off and my battle outfit was burned. I felt something I had
never felt before. I felt at peace knowing that even if I was killed or
destroyed, I felt at peace knowing that my Blanche was safe and
unharmed. I was vaguely aware as I fell back down to the layer, landing
hard, but I did not care. Nothing mattered to me any more except the
well being of my beloved...
* * *
I covered my mouth with my hands, not believing what I saw. I
tried to hold back my emotions, but I could not. They burst forth like
water from a broken dam and I ran toward my fallen love...
"Hikaru!"
I ran toward her and knelt down beside her. I held her carefully
in my lap. She looked terrible. The upper parts of her clothes were
literally burned off and her shoulder pads had gone missing. Her
headpiece was only half of what it used to be and her left arms seemed
broken. I could not contain the sorrow I felt and I could feel my tears
running down my cheeks as I tried to call Hikaru back...tried to save
her...
"Hikaru, Hikaru!"
I could see the light fade from her eyes, but even as it did,
Hikaru spoke to me for one final time...
"Blanche...win..."
She protected me. She protected me so I could win the tournament.
I knew that Hikaru was probably never going to talk to me again. In slow
motion agony and what felt like years, Hikaru's head tilted back and her
headpiece fell to the layer. The sound of her headpiece striking the
layer made my heart stop. I felt my hands tremble...
"Don't leave me Hikaru!"
I shook Hikaru, trying to rouse her. I could not believe she was
gone. Gone from my life forever. Tears ran in torrents down my cheeks
and cried into Hikaru's chest, holding her tightly...
"Hikaru no aishiteru!"
What happened next was something unexpected to me. I cried to the
heavens and I cried for the death of my love. My back felt strange and
heart ached. For a single moment I found that I had grown my angel
wings. I had also not realized that stadium had gone quiet. Laying
Hikaru down gently next to the edge of the layer, I got to my feet and
soared upwards into the sky of the layer. Turning around, I felt a
single tear roll down my cheek as I turned back toward the layer.
Activating my Hyper Mode, I felt the world blur as I streaked toward the
layer. I slammed my fist into the layer, creating a shock wave. That
attack carried all my power and my love. I could see the layer bend and
Mao and Arisu were knocked out of the layer. I didn't want to hurt them,
for I could tell they were shocked from Hikaru's death as much as I was.
I saw out of the corner of my eye, that deus Hatoko had bore Hikaru off
and started to check on her. My heart felt heavy as I stood up and flew
out of the layer toward Kaede-sama. She had a saddened look on her face
even as the winners were declared. I landed in Kaede-sama's outstretched
hand...
"You...you did well."
I nodded, but suddenly my tears started to fall again from my
eyes. For some reason I couldn't contain them no matter how much I
wanted to stop crying...
"She saved me. She saved me and I couldn't do anything..."
"You loved her very much, didn't you?"
I could only nod. I didn't feel much like fighting any more in
Angelic Layer if this was the price I had to pay. Listening to Kaede
talk with Hatoko, I found that Hikaru could be saved. I could not
believe it and this time I wept with joy...
* A week later... *
"Hikaru...I'm so glad that you came."
I was happy now. More than I had ever been in my life. Hikaru was
healed and was now back with me...
* * *
"I am too."
I took Blanche's hand into mine. It was good to know that we had
won the tournament and that she was still by my side...
"So, you're okay now, right?"
I nodded to answer Blanche's question. I looked out over into the
sunset upon a cliff that we had sat under from our first date. I leaned
back against the solitary tree that was growing there. Blanche explained
what happened after I fell unconscious and my memory ceased at that
point. It was hard to imagine, but I knew it was true. Blanche had grown
her wings and the Angels Mao and Arisu were defeated. I looked down at
Blanche as she snuggled up to me...
"Blanche?"
"Hai?"
"Can I hear what you said to me after I died?"
I saw her nod as she leaned up closer to me. My cheeks felt hot
and I could see her cheeks redden. As we drew closer, I could feel her
sweet warm breath upon my lips as she spoke...
"Hikaru..."
"Blanche..."
"Aishiteru..."
* * *
We are the wind...the light...the heart and soul of Angelic Layer.
When angels earn their wings, it is said that it is then when we go
beyond what we originally were programmed to do. For when an angel earns
her wings, we will be truly free...for we are the wind...the light...the
heart and soul...and we WILL be free...
OWARI
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