AIZA-SAN'S FIC [English]

Chapters 1-6

I

-And how was I telling you, it was him who fell into the puddle, commented Tsubasa to his friends, Andrew, or Jun, as his friends called him, and Taro.

-Really? Asked Jun, who was tall for his age, and wore a small ponytail. -Yeah, answered Tsubasa, who was rather tall, sturdy, and had black, spiked hair. -I don’t think that laughing of Arthur’s accident is a good idea, said Taro, who was thinking about it. He was rather thin, though strong for his complexity. Jun then checked his watch. –Creeps, I’m late for class! –For what? Asked the other two boys, confused. –I can’t tell you now. See you later guys! And ran off. –What class is he talking about? –I don’t know. I have to go now, Tsubasa, said Taro, and he went off home. -See you tomorrow! Said Tsubasa, before walking down the street.

In another dimension, still unknown to humans, a huge court was before a mysterious figure, sitten on a dark, gigantic throne. Then, the figure said to the court –Today, we’ll conquer the planet Earth, but for the plan’s success, we have to destroy The Golden Reincarnation and her Warriors, and obtain the Guardian Crystal. Where’s Jade? -Here I am, My Queen, answered Jade, the first servant. She was tall, and had long, green hair. -I shall obey your orders.

-Then go.

Tsubasa was walking home when he crashed with a girl. They fell, and Tsubasa excused himself. -Don’t worry, I’m OK, said the girl. -Let me help you, please.

-Really, I’m OK, My name is Atsuko, but my friends call me Atsu-chan. -R-really? I’m Tsubasa, and I-I’m pleased to meet you, Atsu-chan. May I call you Atsu-chan? He stammered. -Sure, no problem, she answered. Atsuko was fairly tall, had beautiful brown hair, and a wonderful smile, from Tsubasa’s point of view. -See you tomorrow, Tsubasa, she shouted as she ran in another direction. -See you tomorrow, Atsuko, shouted Tsubasa back. “Wait a minute,” thought Tsubasa. “Tomorrow?” What he didn’t realize was that she was also in his same class, and that he was getting late for dinner.

Meanwhile, Taro was running home, when he saw a girl on the floor, fainted. He helped her, and asked if she was OK. -Yes, I’m fine, she answered. -If you wish, I can help you to your house. -No thanks. I can do it. She tried to walk but she fell.

-You really need help. Oh and I forgot to present myself. I’m Taro. -I’m Kaoru, and I think that maybe I need some help. Then Taro picked her up, and she told him where she lived. When they arrived at Kaoru’s house, he excused himself and went home running, because he was an hour late.

Jun was going home from his taekwondo class, when he stumbled with another boy. He got up, but fell, and he saw that the other one was really angry. –Why are you looking me like that? If you looked to a puddle, it would freeze, said Jun. –Why don’t you look where you’re going? Shouted the other boy, angrily. That made Jun really angry, but he didn’t reply, and went home. When he arrived, Saki asked him what happened. Saki was Jun’s twin sister. She was as tall as Jun, but she had a long braid, and she sometimes used glasses, but only in the sunny days, because the sunlight hurt her big brown eyes. Jun told her what happened. –Don’t think about it. Just let it slip away, she said. –No tienes de que preocuparte, además, fue solo un accidente. The fact is that Jun and Saki were from another country; they were Colombian. Then, their mother called them for dinner.

After dinner, Tsubasa went to his room, thinking about the accident, and about the scrape he had on his knee. But above all, he thought about Atsuko. He threw himself on his bed, and turned on his tape player. He was hearing music, when a huge electric current appeared around him, but not only on him. Then a huge water bubble surrounded Taro, and also Kaoru. And the Twins too were surrounded. An ice ray covered Jun, and a tornado covered Saki. Little they realized that they would know other people, and another dimension. When they awoke up, they were not in their houses. Instead, they were in a type of hall. Then, a voice coming from nowhere spoke. –At last the Chosen have arrived. –What’s happening here? I was working, another boy asked. The one who talked was Kojiro. He was very tall, and had a tawny color. Obviously he was not at all happy about it. –I have brought you here because the forces of evil are attacking this world. All of you have been chosen to protect the planet, said the Voice. –Who are you, and where are you? Asked Atsuko. Then a light appeared, and a young woman appeared, floating behind a crystal-like screen. A long ribbon covered her, and she had a crystal on her bosom. -I am the Golden Warrior’s Spirit, and I brought you to awaken your power.

–What are you talking about? Asked Saki. -I am saying that all of you are legendary Warriors, or at least their spirits are in all of you. Your mission is to protect the world from the forces of evil, and especially from Callisto, a millenary sorceress who wants to conquer the world. She has an army of terrible monsters. You have to destroy them, and finally, beat Callisto. But it is not over yet. You also have to find the Golden Reincarnation, and the Guardian Crystal. -OK, we are Warriors, with some kind of powers and weapons. That’s what you’re talking about, aren’t you? Asked Kaoru. -You’re right, Chosen One. -But how are we going to fight? Was another girl, Maya’s, question. She was not very tall, and she had freckles. -You’ll transform into the Guardian Warriors.

Then a very bright light shone, and the teenagers transformed into powerful Warriors. Earth, Water, Fire, Air, Ice, Light and Stellar power merged into one with them. Tsubasa and Atsuko, who had a Raysword and a Boomerang respectively, possessed Earth and its electric power. Water gave its marine power to Taro and Kaoru, who each had a weapon. A Chakra for her, and a Trident for him. Fire gave its fury to Kojiro and Maya. He had a pair of daggers, and she had a pair of chacos, which are a pair of sticks joined by a small chain. Air, and its windy power gave Genzo, and Saki, the ability to control the wind and all its strength. He got a Bow and some arrows and She a Sword. Ice gave Jun and Reiko its freezing strength. He got a pair of blades and she got a gleave. Light gave its glistening power to Taichi, an 11-year old boy, which had freckles, and to Mayumi, a black haired 11-year old, who was the Twins’ little cousin. He was given an Axe, and she a staff with blades on both ends. Stellar power was for Takeshi, a tall, thin boy, and to Hikari, a short but free spirited girl. He had a pair of sabers, and she had a lance.

-Awesome! Shouted Genzo, who was the same kid who stumbled with Jun. He was quite tall, and had short, black hair. -I can’t believe it, said Saki. –It’s like if we were superheroes, but really, how are we going to turn back into ourselves? –You shall keep the Power in this, said the Golden Sprit. Then another light shone, and they were back into their common clothes. Then Atsuko saw a little ring on her hand. –Look, the Power is kept in a ring! How practical, she said. It was true; all of them had a ring, with a different color of gem. Green for Earth, Red for Fire, Blue for Water, Golden for Light, Purple for Stellar power, Clear for Ice, and Turquoise for Air. –You will transform only when Callisto sends one of her demons. To transform, you only need to rise the hand in which is the Power Ring. And now, you shall return home. Remember, Earth’s destiny depends on all of you. Teamwork, Justice, Strength, Wisdom, Courage, Faith, Humility and Truth are the true Virtues...

Next morning, Tsubasa refused to eat his breakfast. His mother was amazed

–Tsubasa, what’s happening with you? You never refuse your breakfast. -I’m not hungry; I’m sleepy. This wasn’t a common scene at Tsubasa’s house. Later at recess, Tsubasa, Taro, Jun and Saki talked about a “dream” they had. But somebody near them was hearing about that dream. It was Atsuko and Kaoru. Then Kaoru greeted Taro. –Taro, you around here? -Kaoru! You study also here in Nankatsu? -What the creeps are you talking about, Taro? Asked Saki, who was as surprised as Taro. He introduced her. -Guys, I’d like you to meet Kaoru Mizuno.

-Kaoru Mizuno? Is it you? Saki shouted so hard that everybody stared at her. She couldn’t blush any redder. -Saki Aiza? -Yeah, it’s me. –Creeps, It’s been such a long time that we haven’t seen us. -Yeah. Taro was startled. –Saki, did you knew Kaoru before?

-Yeah, we were classmates in 1^st grade, and really good friends. And I knew Atsuko when I lived in La Guajira. -Yeah, I remember, commented Jun, who was remembering his past. Schooltime passed in a blur, and Saki went home, because Jun, Tsubasa and Taro had soccer training. Later she stumbled with Genzo, the same who stumbled with Jun. -You again? You need glasses, four-eyes. -Excuse me? I’m not my brother, was Saki’s reply. -Oh, sorry. Hey, you’re the girl with the braid in that dream! Exclaimed in surprise Genzo. -Well, my name’s Saki, and my brother’s Jun. -I’m Genzo. Do you want to drink something? -Sure, thanks. Both kids talked about their life at a cafeteria. Genzo’s mother lived in Germany, and his father traveled all the time, so his trainer lived at his house. Saki’s father died, and she and her brother, mother and cousin lived in a house, which was near the hospital. Then Saki checked her watch. -Creeps, I’m late! Thanks for the drink, Genzo. Call me anytime! And ran off. Genzo saw her, and thought, “She’s just like a princess, or a goddess.” What he didn’t knew, was that he was falling in love, and also late for lunch.

That afternoon, Tsubasa, Taro and Saki were having fun in the video arcade, when Jun appeared. He was hot from running from the park. -Guys, there’s a monster in the park, and I need help! -Darn it! Just when it was my turn, said Tsubasa. They ran to the park, and saw a horrible monster attacking the other kids. -Remember the rings? Asked Saki. -Let’s use them. They transformed into Guardian Warriors. Earth, Water, Ice and Air gave them the Power. Tsubasa attacked him first, using his weapon, but it didn’t do any harm. Saki thought how to beat the monster, but instinctively, the monster attacked them. Not a really good way to begin the battle. Then Saki shouted. –Hey monster, bet you can’t catch me! And began to run. With her armor, she could run faster than usual. The monster chased her, but Saki was too much quicker than it. Then Saki took out her sword, and attacked the monster. She hurt the monster in its weak point –its third eye. The monster roared with anger, and sent out an attack, which left her hurt on her right hand. Then Jun shot an ice ray, which froze the monster, but it didn’t work for long. Then Taro sent out his power. -Galactic Wave Attack! And a huge wave flew from Taro’s hands. And the monster was finally destroyed. -All right. You did it! Shouted Saki. -It wasn’t anything to be proud of, he replied.

Back to normal, the Twins arrived home. Their mom, Rosario, or Hanako, asked them in Spanish. –Donde rayos estaban? -En el parque, replied Jun. Hanako didn’t have a good English, so she talked in Spanish. -Saki, un niño te llamó. Te dejó su teléfono. -Gracias. Saki hurried to the phone. The call was from Genzo. -Jun, you remember the kid who stumbled wiith you? -Yeah. -His name’s Genzo, and he apologized himself. He’s really with it. -Oh, I got it. I’ll talk with him when I see him. But let’s go to sleep, I’m exhausted! -Me too, Jun, me too!

II

The next day, the gang was at school, when Tsubasa fell asleep. Jun shook him, worried. –Tsubasa, Tsubasa wake up, we’re in class. Tsubasa didn’t wake up.

-Ozora, Aiza, Could you please pay attention? Then Tsubasa woke up, really scared. –Sorry sir, but I couldn’t sleep well. -Then you’ll sleep in the hall. You’re grounded. Tsubasa stood out in the hall for the rest of the class, with a heavy bucket full of water. -Why does this happen to me? But immediately the bell rang, and he left the bucket and ran. -Gee, am I ever glad to see you, Atsuko. -Yeah. Your last name’s Ozora, isn’t it? -Yeah. My complete name is Tsubasa Ozora. -Did you sleep well last night? -No. -OK, so, I’ll see you in class, Tsu-chan. “Tsu-chan? It’s the first time somebody calls me Tsu-chan,” he thought. What he didn’t know was that love was in the air. He was lovesick for her, for Atsuko Nishimura. Later, Tsubasa was in the soccer training, when he saw her. She was observing the training. He waved his hand to her, and she waved hers. -Tsubasa, put attention please, said the trainer, Roberto Hongo. -Yes, Roberto. Taro snapped him out of his trance tickling him, something Tsubasa couldn’t resist.

Saki was in Mrs. Brown’s cafeteria, drinking a cup of tea, and thinking about Genzo, when somebody went in. “Hey, it’s Genzo”, she thought. -Genzo, down here! She said. –Oh hi Saki, he said. -My brother accepted your apologies. -Thank god. Er, Saki, would you like to go to the movies next Friday? -Well sure, thanks. ”Creeps, it’s a date,” she thought.” I can’t believe I invited her,” he thought. –At 7:00 PM?

-OK. The week passed very slowly. Tuesday was a year. Wednesday was a century. Thursday was a millennium, and at last, Friday, which was eternity. At 6:00 PM, she put on a dress, which was blue, put on a bit of lipstick, and bit her nails until 6:30. Then a ring on the door made her jump about two feet, but it was Taro. Saki waited and waited, until 6:45. Then another ring, and it was at last, Genzo. They walked to the movies. It was a love story, and Saki fell asleep by Genzo’s side. The movie ended, and they went to Saki’s house. Then at the doorstep, Genzo tried to tell her the truth. –Saki, the truth is that, I feel something stronger than friendship for you. I-I don’t know how to t-tell this... and Genzo ran. He was obviously nervous, and Saki went in. –How was the movie? -It was OK, she said.

Saki couldn’t sleep that night. She kept dreaming about Genzo, and also that a monster tried to eat him. –No, no, Genzo! –What the...? It was just a nightmare, but it’s the same nightmare again and again. She tried to sleep, and at last, she had some rest. She slept until late, which wasn’t normal. -Estoy preocupada, Andrés. Andrea no duerme hasta tarde. -No te preocupes mamá, ella de seguro tuvo pesadillas, y además te he dicho que no me llames Andrés. Sabes que me dicen Jun, y gústate o no, me llamo así. And Jun went to the park. –Hi, guys.

-Hi Jun, and your sister? asked Tsubasa. –She’s asleep. I think she had a nightmare. It isn’t normal. They played soccer until it was time to lunch. Saki was awake then, and excused herself. -I’m sorry about me sleeping late, but I had a nightmare. The strangest thing was that she didn’t remember the nightmare.

-It’s OK, sis, said Jun. -The guys asked for you. -Oh. She went up and washed herself. It was hairwashing day for her. She had a really long braid up to her hip.

She spent half an hour when she washed her hair. Then she went out with a towel on her head. Then Mayumi woke up. -What’s all this commotion? I can’t sleep. She had to study for an exam till late and she was still sleepy. Saki went down with her hair floating behind her, already dry. -Saki, why don’t you make your braid? I don’t want hair in my food! Jun exclaimed. He was obviously joking, but Saki didn’t like jokes. He hit Jun on his head. -Andrew, stop it! You know I hate jokes. -Sheesh, It’s always the same, said Mayumi. -These Twins are always fighting. -WE ‘RE NOT ALWAYS FIGHTING! Was their reply.

Saki went out to the park to play soccer. She also knew how to play, though she only helped in the team as strategist and sometimes she played in the practices. She was practicing when she stumbled with somebody. -Aagh, the newspapers! Now what am I going to do? -I’m sorry. -Nah, it was my fault. I’m Kojiro. Hey, you’re the longbraided girl from the dream! -My name’s Saki. -Glad to meet you, and bye, ’cause I’m late!

She went home, and Genzo was there.” Who invited Genzo?” she thought.

“Must have been Jun who invited him.” –Hi, Genzo. -Hi Saki. Sorry for running away like that. -Don’t worry. Mom, what’s for lunch? -AAjiaco. -All right. Genzo, I want you to meet my cousin Mayumi and my mom, Rosario. -Pleased to meet you. Saki, what’s that that you said? -It’s a soup made with potatoes and chicken. You’ll like it. Later, at lunch Saki asked –Did you like it? My mom is really good cooking.

-It’s delicious! I’ve never tried anything as this. -This is Colombian food. It’s one of the best dishes. -Well, I’ll have to come here when there’s Colombian food. -Don’t exaggerate, Jun replied, obviously annoyed. Then all of them laughed. -Mom, I’m going to Genzo’s house, said Sakki. -Regresa temprano. -Yeah.

Then Saki went to Genzo’s house, which was one of the biggest in the town. They practiced a little soccer. Genzo was a really good goalkeeper, but Saki was almost as good as Jun, and she scored a pair of goals. Then they drank a glass of lemonade. -Mmm, it’s good when we’re tired. -Yeah, especially when it’s shared with the one you love. -What? -I-I mean with the one you care about as a friend.

-Tell me the truth, Genzo. I don’t like lies. -The truth is that I, I, I love you desperately, Saki. I just couldn’t keep it. -Well, I also keep a secret. -Which? -I also love you, she said. She was tellinng him a white lie. -That’s why I blush when somebody talks ‘bout you. But we should give time to know each other better. You see, just two weeks aren’t enough to know each other. But I also feel the same for you. Let’s just be friends, and if it‘s better, then love will find its way. –I see, was Genzo’s reply. He would do anything for Saki; he would do anything for her love.

Saki went home, thinking about what she said. When she found a little cat.

-Aw, you’re alone? Come with me. -Thanks, was the cat’s reply. Saki was amazed. -You can talk? -Yes. My name is Misato. I’m one of the Warriors too. -Gee, I can’t believe it. Misato was silver gray. -Transform. Misato transformed into a Warrior with the power of Nature. She had some fans, as weapons. And immediately she turned back into normal. -Cool. -Can you help me finding my brother Akira? He’s also a Warrior. He’s Siamese. -Wait a sec. My cat’s name’s Akira, and he is also Siamese. Come with me. -Meoow, wait for me!

Jun was playing with Akira, when Saki arrived. -Akira, come here. -Meoow. -It’s him! Akira, wake up your power. OP IKTAYIRO YIT TZE YAHOMIHIYAD, AKIRA, MAITYO AHUKAE. Then Akira floated in the air, and he shone with a strange orange light, and he repeated the same words, which meant “Golden Reincarnation Awakening, Akira, Animal Warrior ”. Then Akira transformed, and his weapons were blades with a chain. -I can’t believe it, he said. -What the...! Exclaimed Jun, surprised. -You can talk! -Yeah, I can. I’m also a Waarrior. Then he transformed back into himself. -Wow, it’s incredible, said Akira.

Next day, all the “known” gang, including Kojiro, met at Saki’s house. They were amazed about Misato and Akira. -I’m Kojiro, was Kojiro’s introduction. –You’re Kojiro from the Meiwa, I should’ve known it! Was Genzo’s answer. -Wakabayashi from the Shutetsu, replied Kojiro. -STOP IT! Shouted Saki. -WE’RE HERE FOR TALKING, NOT FOR FIGHTING! -Sorry. -Now, where were we? We’re almost complete. -But there are 6 left from the dream, was Kaoru’s reply. Then Saki had a shudder. -Darn it, there’s a monster near here. Let’s go!

They ran to an alley, where was a small seed. -Are you sure, Saki? Asked Atsuko. -As sure as can be. Then a tall mysterious figure appeared. Long green hair floated around her. -At last you’re here, Warriors. -What? You know we are Warriors?

-Take this. Dark Warriors, attack them! Then a hoard of dark Warriors attacked them. They were terrified, but Saki and Jun began to fight them. -Guys, we need help now! Then Tsubasa began to hit the Warriors with soccer kicks. Kojiro was good at fighting. Atsuko and Kaoru knew martial arts. Genzo jumped above the Dark Warriors, and gave a couple of flying kicks. But Taro didn’t know how to fight. -Help me guys! I don’t know how to fight! Then somebody attacked the Warriors who were attacking Taro. -Meoow, take this! It was the cats! -Thanks, guys. I just know how to use powers, but I can’t fight.

Then the Seed began to grow, and a horrible monster appeared. -What the...!

Guys, let’s transform. NOW! Shouted Saki, frantic. Earth, Water, Fire, Air, Ice and Nature’s power filled them. -All right! C’mon guys, we got to attack! Then the monster sent out black thunderbolts, which hurt Tsubasa, Atsuko and Taro. Kaoru took out her Chakra and attacked the monster with it. The monster roared with anger, and hurt Kaoru very badly. -Kaoru, are you OK? Asked Saki. -Yeah, it’s only a scrape. Saki and Jun attacked the monster with a double flying kick and it fell. Genzo attacked the monster with his Arrows, and Kojiro used his Daggers. But it didn’t work. Saki had to think fast, so she took one of her earrings and threw it to the monster, and for her surprise, it exploded. The monster fell again, and her earring appeared on her ear again. She relieved Tsubasa and the others with just passing her hand over them. Then Tsubasa and Atsuko attacked with their power. -Galactic Earthquake Attack! And the electric spheres destroyed the monster.

-Yeah! Good one guys, was Kaoru’s congratulation to Tsubasa and Atsuko. –It wasn’t nothing, was their reply.

Back to normal, the Gang went to the soda fountain. -I want a vanilla shake. -I want a glass of lemonade. -I want a glass of water. -Could you please wait? I don’t think I have enough to pay all of this, was Jun’s reply. Then all of them grinned and took out their money. -Sorry. Jun couldn’t blush any redder. -I want a cup of tea.

-I want a strawberry juice...etc. Then they all sat down at the biggest table. -It was a hard fight, was Atsuko’s comment. -Yeah, but there’ll be even harder ones, replied Kojiro. Everyone agreed, and when they finished, they went home.

Kojiro went home when he stumbled with someone. -Hey, could you be more careful? -Sorry, but I can’t with this problem I have. I sprained my ankle, and I can’t walk well. -Oh, sorry. My name is Kojiro. -I’m Maya. -I live in Nishizawa Street, and you? –Me too. I live near the temple. -Then let me help you. -Thanks. Then Kojiro carried Maya to her house. -Is it here? -Yeah. Thanks. -See you later. Kojiro got home, and his brothers and sister welcomed him. -Brother Kojiro! Where were you? Asked Makoto, the second in the family. -Was with some friends. -What’s that ring? Asked Aiko, his little sister. -What, this? I really don’t know. But I like it. It gives me some kind of strength. -Yeah, it’s nice. -Kojiro, where were you? Asked his mother. -Walking in town, and working, too.

III

A week passed, and vacations arrived. The last day of school arrived and everyone was nervous. Tsubasa won a medal for helping with Sport’s Day. Taro won 1^st prize in the Cooking Contest with his secret recipe ribs. Kaoru and Atsuko won a Medal in a Martial Arts contest. Jun and Saki won a medal for the Musical Contest. And Tsubasa, Taro, and the Twins won a medal because they helped winning the National Soccer Championship. Genzo too, and he won a medal for Excellency in History. Kojiro won a scholarship for being an excellent student. Maya won a medal for excellent Behavior. And all the Gang passed the year. Even the 5 last Chosen Ones, that is Reiko, Taichi, Mayumi, Takeshi and Hikari. -Ahhh! Summer vacations, exclaimed Tsubasa. -Yeah. No more homework, no more teachers during 3 long months, said Taro. Everyone agreed. Later that day, Saki was going to the belvedere when she met with Maya. –Maya? Is it you? -Saki Aiza? –Well, yeah.

-Doggone it; it’s passed centuries since you moved from the apartment. -Yeah. Wait a sec, what’s that you got on your hand? -Oh, this, just a ring. You see, I had a dream in which you and Jun and Kojiro... -Wait, you know Kojiro? -Well yes. He helped me getting home last Wednesday. -Well, I know him too. I stumbled with him. -Well. And in the dream, I was given a rinng, this one.

-You’re also a Warrior! I can’t believe it!

That night, Saki was chatting in the Net, when all of a sudden, an Image of the Golden Spirit appeared. -Chosen One, this is a message for the Warriors.

The 5 remaining Warriors are near. And with the rings, I gave all of you some special powers. Discover them and they’ll be useful. Then all went back to normal. Next morning, Saki was resting in her bed and thinking about the “powers” the Spirit talked about.” If it’s true what she said, that means that the shudder I felt is just one of those powers”, she thought.” I’d rather talk this with Jun. -It’s extraordinary. You’re saying that the shudder you felt the last day was a signal of the monster’s presence, was Jun’s comment. -Should we tell this to the Gang?

-Nah. They should discover them soon. -Are you joking? We should really tell them. -OK. In the afternoon, the Twins told exactly what the Spirit told Saki. -That means that we’re not common? Asked Kojiro –You’re right Kojiro. -We have some special kind of powers. You remember the shudder I had when we had to fight with that monster? -Yeah. -Well, I think that is one of the Powers.

Then Saki had an idea –I have an idea. Taro can’t fight, and Maya either, so, why don’t we get in a Martial Arts class? -Good idea. I’m in Mr. Ishida’s Class.

-Maybe he could teach us, said Kaoru. -Great idea! Was Jun’s reply, -But I’ll have to quit Mr. Gyura’s class. Then the Gang stood silent for a minute, then they ran to the Dojo. -I win! Was Taro’s cry? -You’re really quick, Taro. I can’t believe it, said Tsubasa. -Really, I just ran as fast as I could. Later, in the Dojo, Kaoru asked Mr. Ishida if he accepted more disciples. -Well sure, how many of you are going to enter in my Dojo? -All of us. -I think there isn’t any problem, but do your parents know? -We didn’t tell our parents. Mr. Ishida, can we give our reason tomorrow? Asked Kaoru. -Yes. -Then thank you, and goodbye. -See you later.

-Que piensan entrar en clases de artes marciales? -Si. Toda la pandilla entrará.

-Entonces no veo por que no. -Gracias mamá. Then the Twins hurried off to Tsubasa’s house. -My mom said yes, was Tsubasa’s reply. Then the three went to Genzo’s house. -No problem. Then the four went to Taro’s house. -OK. Then to Maya’s house. -All right. Then to Kojiro’s house. -It’s OK. I’ll pay it with my work money. Then they went to Atsuko’s. –Yeah, I can. -Well, that means that we are all in the same place!

Then the Gang went to Mr. Ishida’s Dojo, and Jun told him that they had their parent’s permission. -Very well then, when are you going to begin? The Gang exchanged looks, and all shouted –RIGHT NOW! Then Mr. Ishida led them to the Dojo. -This is the Dojo. Here you’ll have the training. -So here’s where we train for martial arts. -Yes. -Which martial art? -Karate? -Judo? -No, I teach Taekwondo.

-All right! When we were little, we were in a Taekwondo class. And I was in Mr. Gyura’s class. So we know just a bit, said the Twins. -Very good. Let’s see. Could you tell me your names? -Tsubasa Ozora. –Atsuko Nishimura. –Taro Misaki.

–Kojiro Hyuga. –Maya Rodríguez. –Genzo Wakabayashi -Saki and Jun Aiza. -Very well. Please come tomorrow at 4:00. I hope you don’t come late. -No, we won’t come late.

The next day, the Gang was in time at the Dojo. Mr. Ishida was surprised with this. –Well, you have a real sense of time. -We’re all like that, except Taro, who usually gets late. -Geez, stop it Saki, said Taro, annoyed. -OK. Then they began. Saki was very good for jumping and Jun was really swift. Kojiro was extremely strong. Taro learned very fast. Tsubasa was the quickest. Atsuko and Kaoru were a fantastic duo. Genzo had really good reflexes. Maya was very flexible, and fast too.

–Incredible, was Mr. Ishida’ reply. -I could make a wonderful team out of all of you. -Really? I don’t know. A week later, Mr. IIshida gave them their kimonos. –Here they are. Try them. -They’re fantastic! I really feel free to jump and throw myself.

-Yeah, they’re really comfortable. –Very well, let’s begin. The 2 hours passed in a blur. –Thanks for the class, Mr. Ishida. –You’re welcome.

-I think that those Guardian Warriors are really strong, was Jade’s reply. –They are only kids, Jade, was Callisto’s reply. -You can’t fail in our objective. –I shall do as you wish, My Queen. –Very well. –I don’t think Jade’s going to do it, said somebody else. –Onyx, it’s you; you witch. –I told you I’m a sorceress, like Our Queen, not a Witch. Onyx was shorter than Jade, and she covered in a dark cloak. She had black, medium sized hair, and she had eyerings. That gave Onyx a terrible look. –My Queen, if you wish, I can use one of my spells to eliminate the Guardian Dumbos. –Never! I’m in charge of the Plan. –Stop it. Jade is in charge.

-Thank you My Queen. Then Jade went to her room. -Why does Onyx appear when nobody needs her? And Jade began to cry, because she still had a human part. Jade was a human who was brainwashed and given Dark Power. But she missed her Mother and her Father, and specially her little brother, Thomas.

–Raven, I need you. Raven was her messenger. –How can I help you? –Send this letter to my family. I need them to know that Kasumi is alive. But they can’t know that I’m Kasumi. -Sure.

That same day, Taro received a letter. –What? A letter from Kasumi? Dad, dad, come quick! A letter from Kasumi! –You’re joking, Taro. You know that Kasumi died from leukemia in Osaka. –I’m serious! Here, take it. -Well, I’ll be... –Dad, I have taekwondo class today. I’ll go. -Then go. Later Taro arrived ten minutes early.

-Taro, you arrived very early. -Oh, sorry, Mr. Ishida. It’s just that I got a letter from my sister Kasumi. -Oh. –Mr. Ishida, we’re here. -Guys, I got a letter from Kasumi.

–Wasn’t Kasumi your dead sister? -Yeah, but I received a letter from her. Look. Then Tsubasa began to read. “Dear family: I’m not dead. I’m in a faraway place, so I don’t think that you could reach me. I’m fine and I’m working. I hope all of you are okay, specially my little brother, Taro. But the truth is that I’m not so happy here. I miss all of you. Kisses for everybody, and a hug for my little brother. Signed, Kasumi Misaki.” -I thought you were an only child, said Kaoru. –I tried to keep the secret, but I couldn’t. Let’s practice. Then the Gang began to practice. Saki learned to do jump attacks, and Jun learned to avoid attacks as quick as you can say “what the...” Genzo learned to control his strength and his reflexes and Kojiro used his strength for resisting multiple attacks. Tsubasa used his quickness to trick his friends by defending and attacking at the same time. The other girls learned to do dual attacks. Taro slided and attacked at the same time in a very impressive way.

-Very well, time is over, said Mr. Ishida.

When Maya was going home with Kojiro, she asked him if he lived with both his parents. -I don’t. My father died of cancer last year. -Oh, sorry. -Since then, I began to work delivering newspapers. -Oh, I got it. –Then see you later. -See you later, Kojiro. Then, Dark Warriors attacked her. -Help! Kojiro! And she tried to defend herself with flip-flops and kicks. And Kojiro ran to help her. -Are you OK? -I think so. –I got you, Guardian Dumbos. -Jade! Exclaimed Kojiro. -Who’s she, Kojiro? –She’s one of the bad side, Maya. -That means, enemy? -Yeah. C’mon, let’s hide. -Yeah. Then they hid in an alley. -Remember the rings? -Yeah -Well do as I do. –Sure. -I call upon Fire Power. Kojiro, Fire Warrior, Now! And Kojiro transformed. –Maya, try to do it. -Yes. I call upon Fire Power, too. Maya, Fire Warrior, now! –Stop there, Jade. -What? -You can’t scare some kids and go with your intention. With the Fire Power, we’ll stop you. -Ha, if you think that’s going to impress me, you’re wrong. Dark Warriors, attack! -Darn it, we need help. -I’ll call the Ganng. -How? -Just fight. ”Guys, we need help. We’re in Danforth Street.” Then Saki got Maya’s message. ”We’ll be there.”-Guys, Maya and Kojiro need help. Let’s run. -Right.

Then Saki, Genzo, Misato, Akira, and Taro transformed. -We call upon Air power. Genzo, Saki, Air Warriors. -We call upon the power of Nature. Akira, Misato, Animal Warriors. -I call upon Water Power. Taro, Water Warrior, NOW! And they appeared on the scene. -We’re here, and not for talking. C’mon, let’s kick those Warriors, shouted Saki. -Yeah! Then they began to fight. The Dark Warriors were too easy to defeat. But Jade had a surprise. -Jacongo, attack. And a monster appeared. The monster attacked and left Taro hurt. -Are you OK? Asked Saki to Taro. -Yeah. I just need to heal. -Later. Then Saki attacked with her sword, but Jacongo turned her to gold with his dust. -Saki! You’ll pay for this, you monster, shouted Genzo. He was furious. Then he attacked the monster with his arrows, and one hurt the monster in its weak point. Misato and Akira attacked the monster with their weapons. Kojiro and Maya attacked too, and Jacongo turned part of them into gold. -It’s up to you now, said Maya. -We can’t fight well with us being paralyzed, added Kojiro. -All right. Galactic Hurricane, Attack! And Jacongo was finally destroyed. Then Saki, Taro, Kojiro and Maya recovered. -Phew! I thought that I couldn’t make it, gasped Genzo. -Congrats.

Then Genzo and Saki went home together. -You made a great job destroying that monster. -You think? -Yeah. You’re plain awesome. Let’s practice a bit in the Belvedere. -Sure. Then they went there and practiced soccer. Saki was fast, and Genzo too. They were having fun. Then they had a rest. -I really don’t get it. Why does Jade always attack us? -Maybe because we are the Warriors they have to eliminate. Look at that sunset. -Yeah, it’s beautiful. -But you’re much more beautiful. -Aw, Genzo, you’re making me blush. -That’s why. -Genzo, you’ve been so kind with me since I moved to Nankatsu. I just don’t know what to say. -Don’t worry. Genzo was older than Saki. Then brown, warm eyes looked into black, expressive eyes. -I’ve been so happy with you. -Me too, Saki. Then Genzo stood in front of Saki, and he gave her a hug. ”I wonder, could this be love?” she thought.” Mm-hmm. It’s love”, was Genzo’s reply to her thought. Then he gave her his proof that he loved her so desperately ––he kissed her. When Genzo left Saki in her house, he asked her in secret –We’re now more than friends, are we? -Yeah. -Good night, Saki. -Good night, my Genzo. Then Saki gave him one of her pictures. She was a very good artist. It was a portrait of Genzo. -Keep it near your heart, please. -I will, I will, Saki. Then Genzo went home. ” I can’t believe it. At last, I’ve made my greatest wish true.”

Next day, Saki was in her room, thinking about the sunset, the fight with the monster, but most of all, of Genzo. Then Jun went in. -Saki, I heard that Genzo got sick. -What? You’re joking. He seemed so fine yesterday. I can’t believe that he got sick because of... -Because of what? -Er, nothing. -Don’t lie, Saki. Remember that I can read your mind. -OK. The truth is that he saved my life. -What? He saved your... -Yeah. -Oh, creeps! And Jun fell down, fainted. -I’ll go to his house. Then Saki ran to Genzo’s house. -Excuse me. May I see Genzo? -He’s sick. Who’s there? -Tell him its Saki. -Then please come in. Saki ran up the stairs and almost stumbled with Genzo’s trainer. -Oh sorry, Mr. Mikami, but I’m really worried. -Hurry up. -Sure. Then Saki went in his room. Genzo was pale. He was in his bed, trembling and with fever. -Genzo, Genzo, It’s me, Saki. -Hi Saki. I got sick. -Yeah, Jun told me. Are you very ill? -No, it’s just that I’m lovesick. -Why you little devil... and then they beggan a pillow war. Saki attacked Genzo and he fought back. Then there was laughter filling the entire room. -This is a great summer, isn’t it? -Yeah. A summer full of adventure, friendship and love.

Summer passed, and fall arrived. A new school year began, and soccer training too. -Wasn’t it such a wonderful vacation? Asked Tsubasa. -Yeah, it’s sad that we don’t have all the time to play, practice and be together, said Genzo, who decided to quit Shutetsu, and to enter in Nankatsu. -I can’t believe it! You quit Shutetsu just to be with us! Exclaimed Saki. -Excuse me. Are you Saki Aiza? Asked a tall, thin boy, with quite long hair. -Yeah, that’s me. -My last name is Kido. You see, some kids told me that you knew Spanish. -Well yes, I know Spanish. It’s my native language. -Gracias a Dios te encuentro. No te acuerdas de mí? –No. –Soy Jace!

–Jace Robledo! Años que no te veía! Guys, I’d like you to meet Jason. –Hi. You can call me Takeshi. -He was a friend of mine in La Guajira. -Jace! Donde rayos te habías metido? Jun exclaimed. -Pues en Barranquilla. A propósito, tuve un sueño en el que ustedes también estuvieron... –You mean he’s also a Warrior? Asked Genzo, who was a bit jealous. -Genzo, are you jealous just because he is a friend? -No, I’m not. –Remember that I don’t like lies. -Oh yeah, I forgot.

IV

Later, at class, Saki asked Takeshi some things. -How’s Sebastian? -He’s fine. He’s in 6^th grade. -Oh. You’re still an afficionate to the Atlético Junior, like me, aren’t you? -Of course, harebrained. -Shhhhh. We’re in class, whispered Jun.

-Yeah, we know. -Good morning, class. My name is Ms. Nishiikuni. -Just like an old Albania School teacher. I remember that, said Saki. Then the class presented themselves. -I’m Tsubasa Ozora. -I’m Atsuko Halblaub. -Taro Misaki is my name.

-Kaoru Mizuno, at your service. -Bryan Mori. -Reiko Yagami (she’s one of the dream). -Genzo Wakabayashi. -Saki and Jun Aiza. -Takeshi Kido. -Hikari Izumi (she too). -Wayne Wallace, etc. -Then let’s begin with our class. The 1^st day of class passed as fast as a jumbo jet. Then soccer trials began. Tsubasa, Taro, Genzo, Jun and Saki entered the team. -Geez, sis, I thought that you were going to be a strategist. -And I am. It’s just that I also want to play soccer. I’m losing my ability. -May I come in too? Asked Takeshi. -Let’s see your ability. Then Takeshi took the ball and began to play with it. Genzo was in the goal. Then Takeshi shot and Genzo stopped the ball with difficulty. -Creeps! You’re good! Exclaimed Jun.

-And it’s my turn, said Saki. She took the ball and began to run to the arch. The guys tried to take the ball, but she used flip-flops, jumps and tricks to avoid being stopped. Then she kicked up high the ball and she jumped. She was in a horizontal position, and then she made an incredible shot. She spinned and shot the ball, which went in the goal between Genzo’s legs. -Sis, I didn’t know you could make such shots. -Piece of cake, Jun. I call it the Phoenix Shot. I’ll show you how to do it.

Later, Saki arrived home. -Mom, Mayumi, guess what? Jun, the guys and I are in the soccer team. -Eso es bueno. -Really? -Yeah. Genzo too. -Isn’t Genzo your friend who ate with us that day? Asked Mayumi. -Yeah. Mamá, adivina quien está aquí en Newppy? -Quién? -Jason. -De veras? -Sí. Then the telephone rang. -I’ll answer it. -Hello? Aiza Residence. -Saki? -Yes. -Hurry up. I need your help.

-OK. See you later. Mom, I’ll go to Atsuko’s house. -Está bien. -What’s happening? She said when she arrived. -I received a message from the Golden Spirit. She told me that a new element was in the scene. We have to discover the new Warriors.

-You’re right, Atsuko. I felt something quite strange when I met my friend Takeshi. I think that he’s also a Warrior. Then Saki felt a shudder. -Not AGAIN! C’mon, there’s a battle to fight. -Sure, but shouldn’t we call the guys? -No. They’re busy and we are the nearest to the battle place. Let’s T-port, NOW! Then they were in the battle scene. Dark Warriors were waiting them. Saki and Atsuko began to fight. Saki used jump attacks, while Atsuko hit hard with her kicks. -Piece of cake. -Wait a sec. I think Kojiro is near here. “Kojiro, we need your help.” ”Got your message, Saki. I’m going there now”. -Atsuko, it’s time to dark out these Warriors. -Right. -I call upon Earth Power. Atsuko, Earth Warrior, Now! -I call upon Air Power. Saki, Air Warrior, Now! -Stop there, Dark Warriors. We’re here to stay and to stop you. -Now take this. Then Kojiro appeared on the scene. -They’re not the only ones. I’m going to fight till the end. -Kojiro! -Yeah. I was near here. Then Jade appeared. -Got you, Warriors. Hydra, attack! Then a sea monster appeared.

–We got to fight. Let’s finish it, said Saki. -Right, answered Atsuko and Kojiro. Then Atsuko took out her boomerang and she attacked the monster. But Hydra was too strong. -What are we gonna do? said Atsuko. -Use your weapons. We’re gonna attack all three at the same time. I hope it works. One, two, three! Then the three Warriors attacked, and Hydra was hurt, but not destroyed. -I got it, said Kojiro.

-Hydra’s a sea monster. So I’ll use fire to destroy it. -Great idea. -Galactic Explosion Attack! And a huge explosion flew out from Kojiro’s hands. Then the explosion reached the monster, and it was destroyed. -Good one, Kojiro. -It was a new kind of strength I got. Suddenly, the Golden Spirit appeared. -Chosen Ones, I have found the leader. The Air Warrior. -Which? –The one who’s called Saki. -Who, me? Saki was startled. -Yes. You shall guide the Guardian Warriors, and all of you have to find the Golden Reincarnation.

Then they turned back to normal. -Saki, with you as leader of the Warriors, we’ll win every fight, said Atsuko. -You think? -Certainly, added Kojiro. -It’s time to go home. -Yeah. Then Saki walked home. She walked down the street, and she stumbled with somebody. -What the...? Oh, it’s you, Genzo. -Why are you so lonely? –I had a battle. -Oh. If you wish, I can take you home. -Thanks, my Genzo. The Golden Spirit told Atsuko, Kojiro and I that I was the Warrior’s Leader. But I just need to be with you right now. -Well, I’m here. And I’ll always obey you, my angel. –Where did you hear that of “my angel”? -I made it. -Hmm. Then Saki kissed Genzo’s cheek. -Bye! See you tomorrow! –Bye. “Wow. I definitely found my reason to live. It’s Saki.” Then Genzo went home. -Genzo, where were you? asked his trainer, Mr. Mikami. –Was keeping company to a friend of mine. -Your mother called. She said that she wants you to go to Germany for the next vacations. -I can’t go. -Why? –Because I’m in... -In what? -I-in the soccer tournament. Yeah, that. -Tell me the truth. –It is.

Then Genzo went to his room. What he wished to know was Saki’s feelings. He simply was lovesick, maybe too much to bear. And suddenly, something strange filled him. Something too strong. He threw himself on his bed, and began to cry. This was very rare on him. He was so lovesick, that depression took him. He cried himself to sleep. But the same thing passed in the same city, in another house, in another soul. Beyond each heart, there was a pain. That person was Saki. She also was aching. She also loved him almost as much as Genzo loved her. Then Akira went in her room. -Meoow, what’s happening? -Nothing, Akira. It’s just that I have a pain inside me. That’s all. –Cramps? Are you hurt? -No. It’s not a physical pain. It’s a feeling pain. -Oh. Then the cat sat at her side and began to purr.

-Thanks, Akira. I really needed that. At Genzo’s house, Misato made the same.

-Thanks, Misato. A mutual feeling, a mutual pain, a mutual heartthrob.

-Saki, what’s happening? asked Mayumi the next day. -Oh, nothing, cousin. It’s just that I’m down in the dumps. -Mmm. Sounds like a depression, said Jun. -This stinks. I feel so bad that I can’t talk to my family. -Sorry, sis. But, tell me, why are you so down? -I can’t tell. I’m just down. –Andrea, tienes una llamada. -Thanks. Hello, Saki speaking. -Saki, iit’s Genzo. I just wanted to tell you that I’m feeling sick. -Why? Are you also low-spirited? -Yeah. I don’t know why. I can sound silly, but I cried for you. -Aw, Genzo, I can’t believe it. See you tomorrow. -Bye. -Who was it? asked Jun. -Just guess. Mr. Down-in-the-dumps Wakabayashi. -No way! He’s also down? -Uh-huh. He’s also depressed. -I can’t believe it! Well, let’s get ready to soccer practice. -Creeps! It’s late! And it’s my fault. -Doon’t say that, sis. You know that Roberto isn’t so angry. -You think. Once, I got there late and he was so angry. -Really? Then let’s go!

The strangest thing was that there wasn’t any soccer training. Only they were in the soccer field. -What the...! exclaimed both Twins. The soccer field was totally destroyed. -This looks like Jade. -Yeah. Then Jun felt something. -Sis, careful! And he threw himself, saving his sister from a small knife, thrown by a Dark Warrior. Saki took the knife, and saw that there was a message. ”I’ll await all the Guardian Warriors at the abandoned theater. At midnight. Jade” -Darn it, it’s a duel. -What?

–A duel. She’s trying to eliminate us. -Mm. Let’s tell the others. -OK. Then they ran to their house. “Guys, immediate meeting now!” told telepathically Jun to the others. Then the meeting began. -Guys, we received a message. Jade is challenging us to a duel. -So? -We gotta think about that. It could be a trap, said Taro.

-Sorry for being late! said Takeshi. -Takeshi! What are you doing here? exclaimed Saki. -I got a message. I don’t know why, but I found this ring in my closet. And it gave me something. I could hear your message. -You’re a Warrior too! -What’s that of being a “Warrior”? -Did you have a dream in which all of us were there?

-Yes –Then you’re also a Warrior. -Cool. Then they all waited for midnight. The Twins’ mom and cousin went to sleep at 9:30. Then they all fell asleep, but Jun stood awake, reading. At 11:00, Jun woke up Tsubasa, and he woke Atsuko. She woke up Takeshi, and he woke up Maya. She woke up Kojiro, and he woke up Taro. He awoke Kaoru, and she woke up Genzo. He woke up Saki quickly. She woke up and the cats too. Then she gave the order. -Guys, let’s do it. -Right.

-We call upon Earth Power. -We call upon Water Power. -We call upon Fire Power. -We call upon Air Power. –I call upon Ice Power. –I call upon Stellar Power. -We call upon the Power of Nature. Then all of them transformed.

-Wow! It’s fantastic. I feel ready to fight. –Then? Let’s go! Let’s T-port now! And they were at the abandoned theater. -At last, you are here, said Jade to Saki.

-Yeah but I’m not alone! C’mon guys, let’s stop this now! –Earth! shouted Tsubasa and Atsuko, sprouting from the earth. –Water! shouted Taro and Kaoru, who were transformed in water. -Fire! shouted Kojiro and Maya, shining like fire. -Ice! shouted Jun, who made cold air surround him. –Stellar power! shouted Takeshi, who was blended with the night sky. He had sabers. -Nature! Shouted Misato and Akira, who were hidden between the flowers. -Air! shouted Genzo and Saki, who were vanished into thin air. -We’re all here and ready to fight. So get ready to lose! -Ha! You fell in my trap! laughed Jade. -Huh? –I told you it was a trap! exclaimed Taro. He saw Jade “She looks like Kasumi. But Jade’s not my sister.” he thought. ”Help me, Taro!” heard Taro in his mind. -Golem, attack! –C’mon guys, we gotta fight. –Dark Warriors! shouted the monster. -Creeps! Not again! And then, the Guardian Warriors began to fight.

After a while, the Dark Warriors were destroyed. But then, the monster attacked. It hurt Tsubasa, Atsuko and Maya. Jun, Kojiro, Kaoru and Takeshi attacked with their weapons, but the monster wasn’t hurt. Saki healed Tsubasa, Maya and Atsuko. But Golem hurt her. –Why you...! Take this! Obviously, it was Genzo. He threw some arrows. Misato and Akira caught the monster’s weak part –his tail. The monster attacked them and they were badly hurt. -Very well, it’s made of rock, so Ice must be it! -Send your attack! –Right! Galactic Frost Attack! And the monster was destroyed. -You haven’t laughed the last! Take this! and Jade sent out a dark lightning attack, which hurt everybody, except Taro. “I don’t get it. Everybody’s hurt, except me.” Then he stood up. -Sorry Jade, but he who laughs the last, doesn’t laugh the best. -So, Water Warrior, you’re still up. “Help me, Taro.” ”Kasumi!” –Tell me where’s Kasumi! -Never! -Well then, I’ll fight to the end! And he attacked her with a flying kick. But she t-ported back him, and she hit him. -Rats! Take this! And he threw a back kick. Close, but no cigar. Then Taro closed his eyes, threw a side punch, and he hurt Jade. -Now tell me, WHERE’S KASUMI? It was the first time that Taro got so angry. And he attacked constantly Jade. Then Jade disappeared.

-Now you can’t hit me.

-You think. Galactic Wave Attack! Maximum Power! And his power turned into a dragon. Then the dragon got hold of Jade. ”Taro!”-This is the last time I ask you. WHERE IS KASUMI? Then the Dark Power flew out of her, and Jade turned into a monster. Taro didn’t know what to do. But the monster attacked him first. –Aagh! I need your help, guys! –Taro! We can’t fight! We’re too much hurt. -We’re all having faith in you. “Justice”. That word resounded in Taro’s head. Then he didn’t know how or why, but he shouted. And he transformed into a Legendary Guardian Warrior. -Galactic Whirlpool Attack! Maximum Power! and a huge whirlpool flew from Taro’s Trident. The monster disappeared, and Jade fell, fainted. Then Taro turned back into a Guardian Warrior, and then into himself. -Jade! Are you OK?

-Yes, I think. Then a black crystal went out of Jade, and exploded. The other guys turned back to normal, all recovered. Then Jade turned back into her real self, she turned back to Kasumi, Taro’s older sister.

-I can’t believe it! Jade was my own sister! Then Taro received a message from the Golden Spirit. “Now you’ve transformed into a Legendary Warrior, and you have found the Second Virtue.”-I can’t believe it. Then all went back to normal. And Kasumi woke up. –Taro? Is it you? -Yes, it’s me. I can’t believe you’re alive.

-You see, Callisto brainwashed me, and gave me powers. But that doesn’t matter. But I have to warn you, I wasn’t the only one of Callisto’s Servants. Onyx is now the danger. Be careful with her. She’s a demon. -Yeah. –Let’s go home. It’s gonna be dawn and we haven’t slept, fighting Jade. -My name’s Kasumi, Kasumi Misaki.

-Very well. Then the gang won the battle, and a new friend too. A friend who knew much of Callisto. -Thank God today’s Sunday, and we can sleep until late, said Jun. -Yeah, agreed Taro and Kasumi. They thoughht that the battle they had was the biggest, but they were wrong, because like Kojiro said, there’ll be even harder battles. Battles that would be full of courage, attacks and faith in the best.

V

When Taro and Kasumi got home, their father couldn’t believe his eyes. -But Kasumi died of leukemia. -I didn’t die. Instead, I was kidnapped. Then Taro went inside. -I’m too sleepy. Let’s go to bed, Kasumi. -You’re right, Taro. I’m exhausted! Taro and Kasumi slept for 12 hours, a Gang record. After that, Taro went to Tsubasa’s house. –I think that Kasumi may tell us a lot about the enemy, if she wishes to tell us. -But we shouldn’t use her only for that. And we should be normal. Then the phone rang. –Ozora Residence. Tsubasa talking. Yeah? Oh hi, Kasumi. Yes, he’s here. Taro, it’s Kasumi. -Hello? Oh Kasumi. Huh? I was here since a little while. You need some bread? I’ll go for that. Yeah, Uh-huh, OK, bye. -Tsubasa, I have to go. My sister needs some bread, and I have to go. -OK. Then see you tomorrow. And Taro went to the bakery. He always went there to learn recipes. And that day, Mrs. Tilby gave him a recipe for gingerbread. -Thanks, Mrs. Tilby. He paid for the bread, and ran home. -Hi Taro. Did you bring the bread? -Yeah, I did. And Mrs. Tilby gave me a recipe for my cookbook. -I have to learn a lot from all of you since I was In the Dark Legion. -Yeah. And besides, my dad has to get clothes for you. Kasumi was four years older than Taro. So she was the typical big sister. She had a good education in the Dark Legion, but she still had to go to High School. Then their dad arrived. -Hi Kasumi, hi Taro. -Hi Dad. –Hi. Then Taro gave a fierce look to Kasumi, for being so cool with their father.

Then Monday began. The Gang reunited and chatted away the recess. -Geez, I can’t believe that the Basketball team lost by a point, commented Takeshi. -Yeah. I can’t believe it either, replied Atsuko. -Well, let’s forget that. -Jun, Jun, said Saki.

-Huh? He was asleep. -Jun, wake up. -Aww, let me sleep. I’m exhausted. -He’s right, Saki. Everybody is... and a yawn went out of Genzo, and he also fell asleep.

-I got an idea, said Atsuko. Then everybody paid attention, except Genzo and Jun. -Why don’t we all go to a public bathroom? -Good idea. -I know one where there are thermal pools, said Kaoru. –Ahh, that would be relaxing. -And the biggest pool is for boys and girls. Genzo laid his head on Saki’s lap. -Not here, Genzo, she whispered, annoyed. And she pushed him. -So, who’s in favor of this idea? -I am.

-Me too. Everyone agreed. -But, who’s going to tell Kojiro, Maya and Kasumi? -I will, said Taro. -OK.

Then at 6:00 PM, Atsuko called Saki. –Hello Saki? It’s Atsuko. Are you ready for tonight? -Yeah. –Then don’t forget your bathsuit. And you have to tell Jun and Genzo. OK. Bye. Then a knock at the door scared her. She went to open it and it was Tsubasa. -Hi Atsuko. -Oh, hi Tsubasa. -Let’s go. Taro, Kasumi, Kaoru, Kojiro, Maya and I are here. -OK. I called Saki. She has to call Jun, Takeshi and Genzo.

-Very well, let’s wait. And five minutes later, everybody was there. -All right, let’s go. Then they arrived. -Boys to the left, and girls to the right. -OK. Then everybody got settled. -Hey Jun, your hair’s really long, said Tsubasa. -Really? I always have a ponytail and you don’t notice it? -Sorry. Let me help you with your back. -Thanks. -Saki, could you pass me the shammpoo? Said Kasumi. –Sorry, I’m using it. -Well, it’s not her fault. She’s got the longest hair in all Newppy. Then everybody put on their bathsuits, and went in the big pool. -Ahh, this is life. -Yeah. Genzo decided to play a prank on Tssubasa. He went behind him and tickled him. Tsubasa jumped and shouted. -Aah! I hate that! And he hit Genzo on the head. -Ow! Then Saki got hold of Genzo on his feet. -Stay here, or you’ll try my knuckle sandwich. -Sorry. Kaoru was floating, thinking about something, and laughing for herself. -What are you thinking, Kaoru? -Oh, nothing. I just remembered a joke. -Ah. -It’s late. We have to go. Kojiro was silent, but Takeshi asked him something. -Tell me, Kojiro, does this city have a movie theater? -Huh? Yeah, there is.

The next day, Kojiro got up late. -Kojiro, it’s seven ‘o clock. -Just five more minutes...What? Why didn’t you wake me up? Then he ran to school, and he forgot his Power Ring. –Thank god, I thought that I would be late. But wait a sec. Cap on, teeth brushed, Ring... darn it, I forgot my Ring! And he hit his hand with the fist. And suddenly the ring appeared on his hand. -Wheew. It appeared. Definitely, it wasn’t Kojiro’s lucky day. When it was time to go, a thunderstorm fell. -Aagh, doggone it. Definitely I’m jinxed. -Sorry, could you give me the time, please? Asked a short, blond girl. -It’s 4:14 PM. -Oh, thank you. What he didn’t know was who was that girl. But Kojiro didn’t repair on that. Then he walked home. -Sheesh. I’m the jinx of the day. I just don’t know what to do. -Well, why don’t you help in our shop? Asked somebody. It was the blond girl. -My name’s Hikari. I have a food shop, and I need a messenger. -Well, I really need something to do. I’m plain sick of today.

-Now that I remember, I think you appeared in a dream I had. -Really? Was there a girl with brown medium-sized hair, a kid with a red sweater, a pair of Twins, a girl with a ponytail, a girl with freckles and a boy with an orange sweater? -Well yes.

-Did you see a ring on your hand in the dream? -Yeah. -That means you’re…Hurry up. Come with me. Then Kojiro and Hikari went to Saki’s house. -Saki, this is Hikari. –I already know her. We’re classmates -Yeah. -Oh. -Can I see that ring?

-Sure. -Mmm. You’re also a Warrior, said Saki

-What are you talking about? -You were chosen to fight an evil sorceress called Callisto. She wants to conquer the world, explained Kojiro. -So I have to fight.

-That’s the point. Then Hikari checked the time. -Oh no. I’m late. Bye. -Bye Hikari.

-Hey Kojiro, I think you like Hikari. -No. I just knew her today. And besides, I only li....I only like soccer. -Liar. -No, really. -You’re thinking something different. -OK. The truth is that Maya has something that makes me think only of her. -You’re in love, Kojiro. -Of course not. That’s for stupids. -It isn’t true. You’re saying that I’m... -What? Don’t tell me you’re... -Yeah. But I won’t tell you more. -And besides, it isn’t my business. Bye Saaki. -See you, Kojiro. Then something very strange happened. A strange, mysterious voice resounded. -You shall pay for turning Jade into a good person!

At Tsubasa’s house, something happened too. Tsubasa was normally a teen with quite a good appetite, but that day he didn’t eat anything. His mother was very worried. -Tsubasa, why don’t you eat something? -I’m not hungry. And then, he brought up, but it was pure water. -I’m sorry. I think I’m sick. -Tsubasa, try to eat something. -No. I don’t want to eat. I’m not hungry. Then he brought up again. But this time, something blackish, like tar, went out. Then Maggie called the hospital. -I need an ambulance. My son is very sick.. Meanwhile, Taro was walking when he saw an ambulance running. –Mmm, something bad’s happening. But wait a minute. Over there’s Tsubasa’s house. Then the paramedics took out Tsubasa on the stretcher, and he was fainted. -Tsubasa! And Taro ran to Tsubasa’s house. -Mrs. Ozora, what happened? -Tsubasa’s sick. He vomited twice and the last time, something blackish went out. -I don’t believe it. I’ll go to the hospital. -Thanks Taro. I don’t know how to thank yoou. -No problem. Then the ambulance arrived to the hospital. Taro stayed in the waiting room. Then he saw Saki and Jun’s mom. –Mrs. Hanako! –You are Jun’s friend, aren’t you? -Yes. How’s Tsubasa? -He’s OK. But he can’t eat anything, and II don’t know why. -Thanks, Mrs. Hanako. Then Taro called Tsubasa’s mom. –Hello, Mrs. Ozora? It’s Taro. Tsubasa’s fine. But he can’t eat anything. -Thanks, Taro.

Later, Taro saw Tsubasa. -Hi, Tsubasa. -Hi. Sorry for worrying you. How’s mom?

-Quite worried. Then Taro’s Ring flashed. -Huh? What’s happening? And then Saki, Jun and the others were there. Then Kasumi checked Tsubasa and then she knew what happened. -It’s a spell. Must have been Onyx. -Who? -Another of Callisto’s servants. She’s a real demon, not like me because I am human. She’s a sorceress. You’ll have to destroy the demon, not a monster, which has the spell crystal. -How do you know that? -Because she was my greatest rival. -Well then, we’ll have to defeat more and more demons. -Then, let’s go. -Right!

In the Dark Legion, everybody was sad because of Jade’s disappearance. -Stop this. Jade was plain stupid, so it’s right to choose a substitute. -I will do it! Shouted Onyx. -I have already attacked one of the Warrioors. The one they call Tsubasa.

-Tell me how. -With great pleasure, My Queen. I know thee weak part of some of the Warriors, so I choose who and where to attack. -Then, you have my permission to destroy the Guardian Warriors. Then Onyx called a demon. -Arauma, I choose you. -Here I am, master. -Go now, and attack the Warriors. -Yes, Master. Then the demon appeared in the hospital, as a black haired man. Then he asked to a nurse where was Tsubasa. -Sure. Room 235. -Thank you. Then he glared at the nurse, and dominated her. Then he turned into the nurse. “She” went to Tsubasa’s room.

-Hello, I come to check you. -I was already checked. -It’s another one, just in case. Then Tsubasa’s Ring flashed. And a bright light shone. -Aagh! -What the... It’s a demon.” Guys, I need your help!” Then he vomited over the demon. -Yecchh! You’ll pay for this, Guardian Warrior. -Don’t think so. -Atsu-chan! -Hi Tsubasa, I got your message.

-I call upon Earth Power. Atsuko, Earth Warrior, NOW! Then Atsuko transformed. –You made an error, transforming here. Then Arauma appeared as it was, and used his power to attack Tsubasa. Atsuko couldn’t stand hearing Tsubasa’s suffering. -Stop that! Then she took out her boomerang and hurt the demon. Then Arauma stopped attacking Tsubasa, and attacked Atsuko. -Atsuko! If I could transform, I could hellp her. Yeah, I’ll do it! I call upon Earth Power. Tsubasa, Earth Warrior, NOW! -Stop right there, Arauma. -What? How could you transform being so weeak? -I don’t know either, but your bad deeds are over. Then Tsubasa attacked Arauma with his Raysword, and it was badly hurt. Then he helped Atsuko. -Are you OK? -Yeah, I suppose. -Let me beat him. -No, you’re too weak. -I’m not sick anymorre. Then Tsubasa saw a crystal on the demon’s belly. ”Must be his weak point.” But then Tsubasa brought up again, and the crystal shone. -I got it. Galactic Earthquake attack! And the demon disappeared. The remaining crystal exploded and then Tsubasa stopped retching. -Thank god. Then, his stomach grumbled. –OOops! Sorry, he said, blushing deeply

Then Tsubasa was dismissed. -Ah, at last. Then Tsubasa thanked Atsuko.

-Thanks A-Atsu-chan. -I really don’t get it. You always stammerr when I’m with you? -I-I think s-so. -Bye Tsubasa. -S-see you, A-Atsu-chan. ”Whhat’s happening with me? I never felt this before” Again his old crush revived, stronger than ever. He was again lovesick, for her. Then he called Genzo. ”He’s the oldest, so he must know what’s happening.”-Hello, Genzo? -With him. -Hi, it’s Tsubasa. You see, I have a problem. -Tell me. -Remember Atsuko? -Yeah. -Well, it’s just that when I talk to her, I stammer and I act like an idiot. -Do you feel butterflies in your stomach? -Yeah. -Do you only think about her? -Yes. -Then I know what you have.

-What? -You’re lovesick. -Are you joking? -Absolutely not. I know this upside and down. -Sounds like if you were in love too. -Don’t ask. It’s my problem.

-Mmm, now that I remember, you once put your head on Saki’s lap. -Ah, forget that. -All right. So I’m probably lovesick, aren't I? -Yeah. -Then what can I do?

-Follow your heart. Then Tsubasa hanged the phone. “I don’t know what to do, and maybe it’s what he said; it could be love.” Then he went to his room, and turned the radio on. Then, one of his favorite songs passed on. Then he called Atsuko.

-Hello, Atsuko? -Yeah, it’s me. -Put 90,9 right now. The ssong that’s on, it’s dedicated to you. -Aw, thanks Tsu-chan, that’s very nice of you.

The next day, the Gang was in the park, chatting away the time, when Hikari ran there. -Hi guys. -Oh, hi Hikari. Then Taro became paler thaan ever. -Hey Taro, what’s happening? -Nothing, I think, he talked so softly thaat nobody could nearly hear him. Obviously, Taro was quite shy, but that was the last straw. -Taro! I can’t believe it. You’re not like that, exclaimed Kaoru, obviously angry. -Sorry. Then Taro ran home. ”I can’t stand this. First, I’m shy with my friends, and now Kaoru shouts at me.”-Taro, may I come in? -Go away, Kasumi. -Taro, I need to talk with you. -All right. Then Kasumi went in, but then she felt a shiver in the spine.” Darn it, Onyx spelled him. I can feel it.” Taro’s room was a total disaster. Everything was upside down. -Taro, pick up this mess instantly. -All right. This wasn’t the normal Taro. Normally, he was very careful with his things, but now, he was enraged.

-Taro, it’s not your fault that you’re like this. -Then? -It’s Onyx. She put a spell on you. -Like Tsubasa’s? -Yes. She hits the weak sspots. And your temper is your weak spot. Then she passed her hand on his face, and Taro fell asleep. Though she wasn’t anymore Jade, she still had some powers, given to her by the Golden Spirit.

Then Onyx knew that Kasumi was giving information to the warriors. So she went to her house. -Hello? What the... Heeeeelp! Tooom! Then Taro woke up, and saw that Onyx was strangling Kasumi. He attacked Onyx, and took Kasumi away. But Onyx disappeared. Then he became very, very pale, and collapsed. -Taro! Oh no, I have to call the Gang. Powers, don’t fail me now.” Guys, its me, Kasumi. Taro is in trouble”. Then Takeshi arrived. -What’s happening? -Taro collapsed. I think that Onyx casted a spell on him. -Then we’ll have to take care of him. -And we’ll have to be very careful so Taro doesn’t get in more trouble. -Saki! -Got your message.

-Great. That means that I got some powers. Then Saki felt a shiver on the spine.

-Takeshi, there’s a demon near here. Let’s go. -Right.

Then they arrived in the park. –Darn it. Dark Warriors. Then Dark Warriors attacked them. Takeshi was in Karate class. And Saki used what she learned in Taekwondo. But the Dark Warriors were too easy to defeat. Then, a strange, dark figure appeared. -At last, I’ve got you, you little rascals. -Who are you? Asked Takeshi. -I am Onyx, your worst nightmare. I call you, Temprauma. Then a demon appeared. –OK Takeshi, we have to transform now! -Right! -I call upon Air Power. Saki, Air Warrior, Now! -I call upon Stellar Power. Takeshi, Stellar Warrior, NOW! –Stop right there, Onyx! -You’re in trouble now! -Stop there, you demon!

-Taro! -It’s my demon, so I’ll destroy it. But Temprauma attacked him, by using the crystal. Saki and Takeshi couldn’t stand seeing him suffering those collapses. And suddenly, Taro was dominated by Temprauma’s rage power. -Uh-oh, Taro’s dominated. We have to attack the demon, exclaimed Saki. -Yeah, but how? If we attack the demon, Taro’s going to suffer even more the pain of the attacks. Then Taro attacked them. –Hey, Taro, stop it! -It’s not going to work. He’s under its power. -Then it’s time to fight. Then Takeshi took out his sabers, and stopped Taro’s attack. -C’mon Saki, attack the demon! -Right. Galactic Hurricane, attack! Then the demon was badly hurt, and so was Taro, but at last he was free of the domination. -Thanks guys. It’s my turn. –OK. -Galactic Wave Attack! And the demon was destroyed. Then the Spell Crystal appeared, and exploded. -Whew! At last, I feel well now. -Mmm. Normality, Now! Then everybody was back to normal.

-Ooooh! Shouted Onyx, and disappeared.

VI

Genzo was going to Saki’s house, on his bike, when he saw a big truck.

-Mmm, that cargo’s quite dangerous. And there was a child, playing on the side of the road. -Oh no! Hey man, you’re going to kill that kid! But they didn’t hear him. Then Genzo jumped off the bicycle, “flew” and grabbed the child, before the cargo fell over the road. -Are you OK? Asked the drivers. –Yeah, I’m fine, replied Genzo. The child cried and went to his mother’s arms. -My baby. Thank you. -It’s nothing. Then he stood up, and an excruciating pain appeared on Genzo’s left ankle. Then he got his bicycle, and he leaned on it to get to Saki’s home. The doorbell rang, and Mayumi opened the door. -Genzo! Come in. -Thanks, Mayumi. Then Jun went there, and saw Genzo. -Hey, Genzo, what happened? -I saved a little kid, but I think I broke a bone. -No way! I’ll call mom. Hello? Can I talk to Mrs. Acevedo please? Yeah? Hola mamá, soy yo, Jun. Un amigo se lesionó el tobillo. Puedes venir? Si? Entonces te espero, bueno, adiós. Genzo, my mom’s coming. Don’t worry. -Thanks, Jun; you don’t know how does it hurt. -I can figure it out. Then the doorbell rang. -Hi mom. –Hi Jun. You must be Jun’s friend. -Yes, Mrs. Hanako.

–Let me see your ankle. Then she began to check his ankle. -It is not good what I am going to say, but you cannot play soccer for quite a while. Your ankle is fractured. -No, it can’t be! Shouted Jun and Genzo at the same time. –What the...! Exclaimed Saki, who was just getting in.

What happened next was too hard to bear. Genzo’s future was in danger. He was so heartbroken that the 14-year old began to cry. -How could this happen to me? He sobbed. Jun and his sister couldn’t do anything. Saki could heal wounds, but only if she was transformed, and if the wounds were made in battle. Jun couldn’t stand it, and he stormed out of the room. Mayumi opened her eyes entirely. She thought of Genzo as a new brother. Saki was shocked. Hanako began to cast his foot, so that his fracture would heal easier. Then he called a taxi, and went home.

-What? Exclaimed Tsubasa, when he heard about Genzo’s injury. -It can’t be true! Then he hanged the phone. -Tsubasa, what happened? Asked Roberto, the trainer, who lived in Tsubasa’s house. -Genzo broke his ankle. He can’t play soccer for quite a long time. -That’s impossible! And he is the goalkeeper of the team. We’ll have to use Mori so we can play the next game, against the Saint Francis. -The game! I forgot about it! Though, it’ll be better for him, because he wouldn’t play against his former friends. -You’re right. Then Tsubasa called Taro, and told him about Genzo’s injury. -No way! It’s impossible! Then Taro called Takeshi. -Ouch! That’s got to be karma for the poorr Genzo, not playing soccer is terrible. Then he called Kojiro. -What the...! That’s awful. But, somebody thought “Great”.

When Genzo got home, his trainer was waiting him, quite angry. -Genzo, why are you so late? It’s time for your practice. –I can’t play soccer. -Why? –Just look. Then he rolled up his trouser, showing him the cast. -That’s awful. How did it happen? -I saved a kid from an accident, and I felll. Then I got to Jun’s house, and his mother, who is a nurse, attended me and cast my foot. -Oh, I forgot. Your mother called. She wants you to go to Germany for half a year, beginning next January. -I can’t! That means that I’ll miss class,, and my friends, especially Tsubasa, Jun and....

-And who? -And Saki. -Who’s she? -She’s my best friend. I can’t stay a minute without her. -That sounds like if you... -Yeah I know, but I think that it’s not your problem, Mr. Frank. -You’re right. It’s not my business. “Now that I think it, today’s September 16. Just two days more to be one year older, that means, fifteen.” Then he went to his room, and lied down on his bed. -What a rotten day I had! He said to himself.

In the Dark Legion, everybody was very worried, because Onyx was failing.

-Have you heard? Onyx is a failure. -Onyx has lost two demons. -Silence! Enough. Onyx, why have you failed? -My Queen, It’s those warriors. When one’s alone, the other ones appear. I think that they have some sort of powers. But I shan’t fail anymore. I swear it. -You’d rather! Shouted some of the courtiers. -Very well? –But I need time, and a little of the Dark Power, so I can find the Four remaining Warriors, and eliminate them, before they are discovered. -Very well. Then a dark wind covered Onyx, and she got doubled the power she had. -Thank you, my Queen. And she retired. -I don’t know how you can hire servants like this, my Queen. Onyx is so dumb, that she’ll lose very soon. -Silence, Beryl. Beryl differed from Onyx because Beryl was a masculine entity, a man. -It’s not your time still, Beryl. So please wait, until Onyx is dismissed—permanently.

Saki at last went out of class, and went to the elementary section, to pick up Mayumi, her cousin. -How was your day? -It was fine. Mayumi was in 4^th grade, so she had quite a lot of fun with her friends. Then Saki saw something. -Mayumi, what’s that you have on your hand? -A ring I won on a game. You like it?

-Yeah. It’s nice. -How’s Genzo? -He’s fine, but he has to usse crutches for a while.

-Poor Genzo. Then the girls saw a boy, sitting lonely in the park, while his little brothers played. -Why are you so lonely? -Are you talking to me? -Yes. -I don’t have any friends. -Why? -I don’t know. I think that everybody thinks I’m crazy. -Of course not. My name’s Mayumi, and she’s my cousin, Saki. -Hi. -My name’s Taichi. Those kids playing there are my brothers Hidetoshi, Shigeru, and little Yamato.

–Pleased to meet you. -Thanks. -Where are you from? -I’m from here, Nankatsu. My mom’s Italian, exactly from Mantovani, a little town near Genoa. -So you have to talk a good Italian, I think. -Well, a little. -Can we be your friends? -Are you serious? -Yeah. -Sure! Thanks! Then Mayumi invited Taichi for lunch the next Saturday. -So are you going to come for lunch next SSaturday? -Sure. I’ll be there on time. -OK, then we’ll see you. -Bye.

The next day, Saki woke up very early. ”I can’t wake up Jun or Mayumi. I have to do this myself, for the surprise’s sake. Now, let’s see. The invitations for the gang. It’s a surprise party for Benjamin, so I’ll call Genzo, instead of sending him the invitation. Balloons, ready. Ice cream, vanilla and mint, his favorite flavors.

Cake, I’ll make it. I think that I’ll do it chocolate flavored. And the snacks too.”

Then she began to do everything for the party. She shut up in her room, and in the kitchen. She made the invitations, blew up the balloons, made the cake, bought the Ice cream, and made the snacks too. She also bought sodas. Jun and Mayumi woke up when a pleasant smell filled the house. -MMMMMMmmm! Something smells awfully good. -Yeah. I think that Saki made one of her ddelicious chocolate birthday cakes. -Excuse me, Mayumi. Did you say “Birthday cake”? -Yeah.

-Well...that means that... Then Mayumi and Jun shouted at the same time.

–TODAY IS GENZO’S BIRTHDAY! -And I forgot to buy his gift. -Me too! But, wait a sec; I think that I have a little money in my piggy bank. -And I have some money left from my savings. Then both of them blasted out of the house, hurrying up so they could buy a gift for Genzo.

Tsubasa received something in the mail that day. -What’s this? An invitation for a birthday party. Now let’s see, today’s September the 18^th, that means that... It’s Genzo’s birthday. The same happened in the other guys’ house. The invitation said, “You’re invited to B. Price’s 15^th Birthday. Time: 3:30 PM. Place: South Blvd. 2153, Ariza Residence. Surprise Party. ” So everybody was getting ready for the party, and nobody told Genzo about that. That day, Genzo went to the park, using his crutches. He found Kojiro there, playing soccer. That hurt Genzo very much, because of his fracture. -Hi Kojiro. -Oh, hi Genzo. -You know what day it is? --Oh, yeah. Today is my appointment with the dentist. Thanks for remembering that.” What? Today’s my birthday, and Kojiro forgot it. Well, he’s never been in good terms with me.” Then Taro passed near him, running. -Hey Taro! Over here! -Huh? Oh, hi Genzo, what’s up? -Nothing, it’s just that today’s... -A very nice day to practice sports, oh, but I forgot that you can’t play soccer. How silly of me. -No! Genzo was quite annoyed. -Today’s September the 18^th! -NNow that I remember, today I have to make some cakes for Mrs. Taki. Bye, see you later! “I can’t believe it! First Kojiro, and now Taro! What kind of world is this?”-Bah, I’ll go home.

When Genzo arrived at his house, nobody was there. -What? Mr. Frank isn’t here, nor Satcha. Then he went to his room, and changed clothes. He put on his favorite shirt, a pair of jeans and his right moccasin, because of the cast. He checked the time. It was 3:15 PM. Then the phone rang. -Hello? This is Genzo talking. Oh, hi Saki. What? You want me to go to your house? To help you with something? What something? You can’t tell me? Then I’ll go. Then he hanged up, got his crutches, and went out. He walked to Saki’s house, quite slowly, because of his crutches, but surely. What he didn’t knew, it was that somebody was watching him. Then something moved in the bushes. -What? Oh, must be the wind. But it was Thomas, who as quick as a wisp ran to the house and shouted –He’s coming! Everybody hide! And everybody hid, except Saki. When Genzo got there, everything was normal. -Hi Genzo. -Hi Saki. -Come in. So, what’s up? -Ah, nothing. It’s just that...What day it is today? -I think that it’s Friday. -No, I’m not talking ‘bout the day, I’m talking ‘bout the date. -Oh. Then Saki covered Genzo’s eyes. -Now, don’t take off the bandanna. -If you say so. Then she guided him to the living room. –Now, to the count of three, you’ll take off the bandanna, you heard? -Yeah. -One, two, THREE! And when Genzo took off the bandanna off his eyes...–SURPRISE! Everybody went out of their hiding places, covering him with confetti and blowing noisemakers. -HAPPY 15^TH BIRTHDAY, GENZO!! –Why, I thought that you forgot my birthday, guys.

Everybody was there. Tsubasa, his mother, Roberto, Taro, Kasumi and their father, Kaoru and her sisters, Kojiro and his brothers, Maya, Takeshi, his brother, Hikari, Jun, Mayumi, Mr. Mikami, Teppei, Hajime, Mamoru and his friends from the Shutetsu, the cats, Mrs. Hanako, and obviously, his reason to live, Saki. -Wow! Thanks guys. I don’t know how to thank you about this. -You don’t have to. It was all Saki’s idea. -Ahhh, don’t make me blush. Everything was perfect. The Ice cream was delicious; the cake was in its point. Then they played a game of “Spin the Bottle”. Everybody was nervous, and the first one chosen by the bottle was Taro. He had to give Kaoru a kiss. And that he did, but on her cheek. At least that was quite brave for the shyest kid in the party. Tsubasa had to tell the truth about what he thought about math. -I simply hate it. Then it was Kojiro’s turn. He told the truth about him. -My father died last year, and I have to work, so I can help my mother and brothers. Then it was Saki’s turn, and she was brave, quite unlike Taro. She had to give the birthday boy a kiss. She joined all her courage and kissed him, without any remorse. The good thing was, that both of them knew what they had to do, the bad thing, was that somebody was suspecting that they had something hidden, something that they didn’t want to tell.

Then, after the party, Genzo opened his gifts. A CD of the best of Santana, Genzo’s favorite musician (after Saki, of course), from Tsubasa. Atsuko gave him some soccer magazines. Taro’s present was a batch of chocolate chip cookies, Genzo’s favorite. Kaoru gave him a sweater. Kojiro gave him a bond so he could buy his favorite CD. Maya gave him a candle and a portrait keeper. Jun and Mayumi gave him a pair of new soccer gloves. Takeshi gave him a book. Mr. Mikami gave him a shirt. His friends from the Saint Francis gave him the Yearbook, signed by everybody. Kasumi gave him some stationery, marked with his initials, B.P. Mrs. Hanako gave him a book about Colombia. Hikari gave him a box of chocolates. The cats gave him a new pen. Saki gave him the best present. She gave him a new pair of shoes, a new picture of him, a cassette of her music, and her love. For anyone, they could think that the love of somebody isn’t important, but Genzo loved Saki, and so did she. He loved her over the best things in the whole universe.

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