As they rested in the inns in the village, Shizuki was walking outside at night to find any clue before returning back and let Kazuya dragged her into an embrace and kiss her head. Even Yomi laughed quietly before they get settled in, he stroke her hair and brought his face onto hers as they share a kiss. This was pretty normal for the both of them and Kaname decided not to get involved, while Yomi get some private time to see the beautiful night sky.

Their kiss is passionate and deep that made her unable to breath, before he pulled away--letting his forehead touched hers and brushed his fingers through her bangs on her cheeks. "I don't sense Yuzuki within me anymore, is it bad...?" she asked, seeing the cold-faced Dragon smiled a bit. "Maybe, you've finally gotten her out. Now, you have to be more careful to yourself, Shizuki..." he whispered, his baritone voice making her fell in love again, hugging her around her waist as the full moon glowing at them.

Shizuki remembered whenever she tried to get in touch with Yuzuki, she saw the priestess in her subconscious no longer appear, the presence of her already faded--why would she fading? Not only her Onikami power that suppressed her from letting Yuzuki use her, but also their memories. All she can do is dreaming of her memories and how did she meet Kazuya until her demise and Kazuya being sealed with the other gods, and what was Hozuki's plan with the Iridescent Pearls? Was Hozuki the one who was related to Yuzuki's passing away?

Of course, she felt jealous of Yuzuki because she has been with Kazuya for a long time before him being sealed by her. Why did she feel bitter just knowing something between them--is she not satisfied and envying Yuzuki's chances to be with him for all the time? She can never compete, she was just Yuzuki's reincarnation but... she's not her.

Shizuki is Shizuki, nothing else.

Regardless of many people comparing her to her deceased predecessor, and having same past but with different paths and powers; since she wasn't Yuzuki, it doesn't change the fact that she was loved and supported by her own existence--as a warrior princess of her clan. "Shizuki, I love you," Kazuya whispered, his embrace tightened her back. "I love you too, Kazuya... I will always love you," Shizuki mumbled as they shared a comforting smile that somehow make Kazuya feel loved and... content by her affection.

Suddenly, one of Hozuki's henchmen ambushing them from behind and Kazuya let go of her as he was distracted by the henchman's attack. Shizuki was snapped from her thoughts as she saw Kazuya and the evil minion fighting against each other, and she have to witness everything is happening. Shizuki growled, before she pounced with her katana and slashed the creature.

Its blood spilling as it turned into ashes after that, and a black pearl fell from its belongings, suddenly Shizuki felt a certain soul that was familiar. As she felt a certain energy waves leaving her body, retaining her half-Onikami power as she watched the pearl infused with the energy waves.

Their eyes widened, it was Yuzuki in a physical form as she was revived through the pearl...

'An Iridescent Pearl and an Awakened Soul, huh? Like a miracle, you set me free from eternal torment... and now, with the pearl in possession--you're going to proceed the last wish I want,' Yuzuki's voice was clear on Shizuki's head, and a small smile appeared on her face.

When Kazuya stared at Yuzuki when she was able to regain her lost years of solitude, he grunted as he was wounded and Shizuki hurried to his side. "Kazuya, stay away!" she yelled as she tried to push him out of the way from Yuzuki--the Dragon was confused, refusing her request to move away. "This is something I have to do... Kazuya..."

They locked their eyes as the wind swayed Yuzuki's clothing and the jewel bracelet she was wearing while wearing her shrine priestess outfit, that Kazuya recognized so well. Yuzuki took a step closer to Kazuya, holding his cheek but soon Kazuya remove her hand gently. He couldn't accept it after three years trying to forget his past, only to be welcomed with his beloved priestess have a chance to return into the world--he still remember her betrayal and he knew she was just a goddess--after she sold her mortality to become an immortal like him. Shizuki was surprised, before Kazuya took her wrist and he spoke. "Why are you alive, Yuzuki? Seriously, I thought you repent for your mistakes that you made."

Kazuya snapped calmly, his brown eyes glared darkly towards the fellow god--but he was silenced when Yuzuki looked up at him--trying to show him a warmth smile that only proved nothing can deceive the Dragon. No, this was impossible. She was gone, she was dead and didn't bother to attempt to save him. His soft brown eyes became stone cold again, even Yuzuki hated it to see her loved one decided to love Shizuki instead of her, but she had no choice because Shizuki is the rightful soul who made peace with her first. "Shizuki, I suppose you never let me take over your vessel because of your power..."

"No, of course... I decided to be the master of my own destiny, whether its fate or the chance to lead my own life."

Shizuki replied, staring at Yuzuki without any emotions and at the same time being calm as she can. Kazuya didn't see the familiar person which he truly knew before, the power of Yuzuki's seal was unbroken because Kazuya knows a trick. Hozuki created this mess and the chance to have the pearls in his control... but he won't let that happen, he watched Yuzuki turn around and smiled grimly. "Perhaps, I need to see my son... once our time is over."

When Yuzuki was walking away and turned her heel to face him again, Shizuki's eyes widened at her words. "No... wait, what do you mean your... your son?" she demanded in response, while Kazuya sighed heavily as he glared at the god with utmost hostility. Yuzuki went pale, before she huffed in irritation. "If it's not Hozuki, then it's no one else," she replied, before she walk away from the both of them.

Kazuya sighed, he didn't want to involve himself again to his affair with Yuzuki--its finally over between them and he was going to let her go. He still consider her as his first love, but now? He's willing to change and now, whether she likes it or not.

He was relieved, wrapping his arms around her to bring her closer as Shizuki calmed down by his scent that mixed with the ocean's fresh smell from her clan's village. "I'm sorry for dragging you into this..." Kazuya said, feeling guilty at his only sweetheart and hoping to change his way, and not just someone who tends to tease and bully her because of his personality. Maybe, it was going to take long...

Who knows? One day, Shizuki will know that she was truly loved from all the agony and struggle. "Kazuya, remember what I told you that day? I accept your flaws and I have to learn for you to understand some people which you wouldn't get to comprehend..." she said with a smile, before the Dragon hugged her waist tightly as he whispered. "I'm an idiot, I'm a coward... I was planning to confess but you ended up..."

"Kazuya, listen."

Shizuki spoke, looking up at him as they separated. The Dragon blinked in confusion, before she added. "I know you weren't going to tell me something important--I had sensed it. That's how you were known by the 'Water Dragon' and 'Mountain God of North Kagutsuchi', I'm not going to apologize for asking you that... and to accept something for myself."

Kazuya was amazed at her charisma and her persistence, Shizuki is truly strong enough to hold him together. She let him fall on her shoulder as he mumbled something and bury his face into her neck, that make her nervous. 'Why are you apologizing? I was the one whose in the wrong but you would want to make it all better,' Shizuki thought silently as her fingers twirled his long black hair, the color make her feeling something; a smooth and wavy black hair that reached his upper back. He wrapped his arms around her and picked her up from the ground, while she was giggling due to the fact that Kazuya is carrying her towards her room in the ryokan that the group is staying.

After he informed Yomi and Kaname about Yuzuki's revival, they were surprised but alarmed because of the fact that she was Hozuki's mother--but Kazuya told them to discuss this for tomorrow. She knew her friends will trust his decisions because her friends believed in him and he's reliable to all gods, even he's the only water and mountain god remained in his position. She feels at ease while under Kazuya's care, and once she laid her head onto the pillow--Kazuya got closer to see her directly, no matter how many times he seen her face, he can't resist looking at her beautiful orbs. He is captivated by those dark cherry blossom eyes, before their lips pressed into a kiss with a soft and calming feeling...

Her head resting on his arm underneath her, moving his palm to stroke her cheek, caressing her temple to check on her. Kazuya was protective... just like her late-parents, and she might understand his heart a bit. "Kazuya... deep down... I was a bit jealous when I think about your past relationship with Yuzuki, sometimes... I keep doubting if I am worthy enough for you--so I tried to study about how she used to be and... she was a completely kind woman to you that make me ask myself if I'm being selfish? So you won't be lonely, I..." she paused, before she added. "But, I realized that... Yuzuki wasn't me. I'm Shizuki Kasuga, I'm not like her so does my ability... I'm different than her."

Kazuya was startled at her confession, seeing the glint of tears forming around her eyes. Of course, Shizuki was jealous and envying Yuzuki due to the fact that they have almost same past--but is so different in multiple ways. Shizuki already showed the proof that she is far different than the beautiful god that everyone see her as Yuzuki-hime, she did mean her words to comfort him from his misery and his previous torment of meeting Yuzuki again--despite that it wasn't her fault and the only one she can blame was herself, forgetting that her ancestor's sin affected them, thinking Hozuki's descendants and his mother already pay the price and his evilness because of the sins Yuzuki had created.

"Shizuki... no, you have a worth. Its not Yuzuki, or Hozuki... even it's not me that affect your worthiness, it's your morals, charisma, and your power."

The Dragon comforted her, making her wiped the tears as they rolled her cheeks and his fingers drying the wet tears. "Is that true?" she mumbled, Kazuya took a deep breath before he smiled.

"Yes, it's the truth. You don't have to worry anymore, since we already established the relationship for as long as this war is over, I can easily slay Hozuki once and for all," he replied, brushing her bangs from her cheek. "Rest now, we need to gather more information after we get back from town and ready for the battles..." he whispered, kissing her eyelid.

Just by thinking Hozuki becoming more powerful than anyone in Kagutsuchi, this brings the fearfulness and sorrow among the humans. They have to end him for good. No matter how many obstacles, no matter how much they're going to suffer--but the pain and struggle will make them stronger. It would take them hours to search about the information regarding the pearls if they are truly a clue, because it was weird that the pearls will have human souls to possess.

This is the last battle, even though their journey hasn't over yet--there will be more to go.

The next day...

Shizuki was determined that she can stop Yuzuki and Hozuki during this war, the emperor and the Shogun of Taiyou Palace and Bakufu suddenly declaring a war against the yokai. Kazuya had to gather his army of gods and Ten Gods of Guardian to stop them, it was a tough decision--but she choose to join Kazuya to assist him. Yomi also joining as well, even Kaname was ambitious to stop that bastard from trying to kill them. She was sitting on top of the rocky and grassy cliff, watching the ocean below with the two giant cliffs similar to natural arch--feeling the windy breeze in the morning.

Kazuya was coming towards her as he stood beside her who sat on the flat rock, folded his arms as he try to come up with solutions. Kazuya huffed in exhaustion, looking down at her as he leaned closer and kissed her forehead. Her face went crimson, and mumbling something he managed to hear. Kazuya couldn't make her depressed with his doubts of having enough power to deal with Hozuki, he want to calm her down. This was not a new situation, as he was starting to worry about Hozuki who would obtain the third Iridescent Pearl.

"It seems like the upcoming war is inevitable, considering the fact Yuzuki and I will have a fight in our fates."

Kazuya narrowed his eyes, before a mischievous grin appeared on his lips. "Shizuki, are you jealous? That's what I've always thought about you, ever since you have a crush on me..." he hissed, smiling in amusement and feeling the breeze flowing through his long raven hair. Of course, the warrior princess wasn't that amused by his remark, folding her arms and sighed. "I used to be jealous, but now? I learned that I shouldn't compare myself to Yuzuki, I'm not her--and I would protect you no matter what."

This time, he turned to see her determination and her words pierced through his cold heart--slowly and fully repaired by her loyalty. "Shizuki, would you allow me?"

"Of course, you dork," she cued, knowing what was he wanted to do when she stand up; before he hold her waist and back. Shizuki laughed in delight, which Kazuya making her fall in love with him again. Someday, Kazuya will no longer stay as an immortal, but Shizuki would try to not let her love wither--knowing the man will always stay for her. Even if she kept believing in herself, people might have tricked him or breaking his trust, but at least--he learned a valuable lesson. "In my eyes, you have principles that being a ruler and a war general never mean to exploit people without intentions or knowledge... and power does not necessarily mean you have victory, even you having a powerful abilities..." he added.

It makes her understood how does he actually admired her, the girl just couldn't stand without showing him a sweet and bright smile. Kazuya buried his face into her neck, making Shizuki shrieking as his breath slightly tickling her neck. Before she knows, the water dragon pulled her in a hug, rubbing her back with a charming smile on his lips. "Kazuya..."

"Hm, what is it?" he purred, before she pointed her finger at him and poking his cheek as her eyes stared at his handsome face. "I want to see you in your water dragon form again," she said, pouting when he smirked mockingly. "Are you sure, about that? The last time we're going back to the riverbank where I am visiting, Kaname was pissing me off," he complained before she giggled as she patted his shoulder for being too stubborn, which she grinned. "Come on, I want to enjoy the breeze around with you," she plead, her eyes twinkled in happiness. It would be his pleasure, his dragon form was a pride just for his lover that he can take her on a flight, and they would spend more time together.

Kazuya released her and fell backwards from the cliff, before he transforms into a water dragon and slithered upwards in the air--making Shizuki thrilled by the ride, and her hands firmly hold his horns. Kazuya closed his eyes and dove into the cliff, plunging into the water and swam through the big drops and surges. Since he's immune to the water, he swam faster and leaving a trail of ocean breezes and mist upon his scales with every move of his tail-fins, before he did a somersault in mid-air to let Shizuki had some fun on top of his snout. Kazuya twisted his way through the water and he was satisfied by Shizuki's smile every time he tried something new. "Woohoo! You're awesome, Kazuya!" Shizuki screamed excitedly, the wind blowing her long hair and clothes, flying like a sail with freedom.

It felt great to see her happy, how she laughs joyfully on top of his snout, and her eyes filled with joy when looking at him. Then, they has arrived in the ocean-like area that shows their reflection in the blue sky and white clouds. Shizuki was able to stand on the area without falling into the waters, turning around and faced her water dragon lover whose snout hovered over her head. At that moment, she finally allowed him to place his snout near her, as the water dragon nuzzling her happily. Shizuki chuckled, her eyes drifted onto his own and she tried to sense her lover's own heartbeat from the energy waves that radiated inside. "You know, Kazuya... you made the world so much better, in a painful and happy ways..."

He let out a deep rumbling as if he was chuckling, before he rested on the ground beside her, lifting his upper body to curl his tail around her to keep her safe. He let Shizuki's hand touched his snout, petting him gently before she smiled weakly at the dragon--as Kazuya nudged her gently with his nose to give her a peck on her mouth, he smiled under his snout; and this was the closest than what she can ever do. "I still love you, the feelings are real..."

That was the first time that her eyes brimmed with tears of happiness and he lick her face, a rough tongue scrubbing her skin to make her laugh. "From the bottom of my heart, I'm proud to call you mine..." she cried while she gently bring her arm to hug his snout and Kazuya wrapped his serpentine body to comfort his human lover. "Shizuki... my warrior princess, forgive me for doubting and even trying to betray you before..." he sighed, before he noticed her face had glistened with some tears of happiness. Seeing her like this is surely such a rare experience for his immortal mind.

Her gaze averted at him after that sentence, before Kazuya allowed her to approach his watery dragon self and Shizuki threw herself upon the water, hugging him.

Because of you, I find my strength and for the way you look at me, you are all I need to believe...

***

Shizuki was determined that she can stop Yuzuki and Hozuki during this war, the emperor and the Shogun of Taiyou Palace and Bakufu suddenly declaring a war against the yokai. Kazuya had to gather his army of gods and Ten Gods of Guardian to stop them, it was a tough decision--but she choose to join Kazuya to assist him. Yomi also joining as well, even Kaname was ambitious to stop that bastard from trying to kill them. So, she began another training so she can focus on her inner power and how to stop them from taking over the land. She was meditating in the river area where the koi fish swimming around her. Shizuki wore a white colored Kimono while her chocolate long hair was tied in bun, Yomi assisted her in focusing her training, but with a few words that was told by her past life.

She lets out the inner beast she's been trying to hide, that being using the power Yuzuki and the Iridescent pearl of Shinju that had combined as one. When the fighting became a difficult in times, Yomi and the rest of them have to face Hozuki while they tried to figure a way to find the final Iridescent pearl before Hozuki did. "Don't let your guard down, Shizuki. Protect the bond you shared with Kazuya, this isn't about Yuzuki anymore."

Yomi's voice echoed inside her mind, which Shizuki have learned from her memories before. She opened her eyes to see them finding the other pearls and how to find the last Iridescent Pearl, she need to make sure this war is over and live happily together with her love, Kazuya the Dragon God.

Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.

No matter what happen, no matter if the world she will fight.

She swore to protect the Dragon God no matter what happens.

They spent some time training harder for a several days, Shizuki can focus and control her power well. Kazuya was glad that his precious warrior were able to survive the wrath of Hozuki, when her demonic side is awaken. He was in the middle of his training with Ryusei, they were sparring with their weapons before they finally have rested. "So, this will be the time you're going to propose her?" the thunder god questioned him.

"Yes," Kazuya responded with a smirk, which he was anticipating on how the princess of Oni were responding to it. It wasn't easy to deal with her rage, when she got mad--but he was responsible and willing to take care of her. "Our journey is still long after all, there must be a way to stop the war before it takes a toll..." Kazuya was trailing off to his thought, while Kaname snickered. "Come on, I know you're a stubborn dragon who wanted to get his love back," he added, causing both of the dragons and the gods exchanged their glance. "I'm not talking about Yuzuki, that woman better off sealed like what I've done before," he answered and letting out an impatient huff.

"Seriously, do you really loved Yuzuki in the past? The reason why she chose you is for your power, the pride of the dragon god... not your devotion for her."

Ryusei remarked after wiping off the sweat from his forehead, resting his left hand on his hip. "It was my first time falling in love with human, Yuzuki... was very kind back then--until she mentioned of having a child with me and becoming a mother. That time, it's a taboo for us deities to fall in love--I'm a powerful god that time... yet I let my own peers to belittle me for being with Yuzuki and... somehow accepting my own blood to merge with the child. Maybe, my pride just too much to handle before I'm with Shizuki."

Kaname began to wonder after he told him that, Kazuya was happy with Shizuki compared to when he was with Yuzuki--though their relationship was complex, Shizuki manage to confront him when he's being an asshole. "So, how do you feel about Yuzuki now?" Kaname asked as he wanted to know. Kazuya tilt his head with a smirk at him, stepping towards Kaname until he replied. "Honestly? I don't give a damn about her, she's nothing to me--after she fucking sealed me in the North Mountain just to fulfill her desire to be immortal like me? I'm not that easy of a man to be with," Kazuya remarked with confidence, he got a point.

After their little discussions, Kazuya decided to go check on Shizuki for a while. Shizuki was sitting down in front of the river with the fishes swimming around her, it seems like she was meditating--or doing something that didn't made sense for Kazuya to understand. As she finished meditating, she yelped when Kazuya embraced her in his arms--kissing her multiple times that caused her body shuddered with embarrassment. Kazuya got her all for himself, that they almost forget the problems that they have. After that, they slowly falling in love to each other once more. "K-Kazuya... was that necessary?"

"Sorry, I miss you..."

He whispered near her ear before turning her around to face her completely. Yomi could only smile when she saw her friend was being seduced by the mountain god, Shizuki had to cover his face--but didn't do the job, she had to keep her distance from him because his dark eyes seemed to be focusing on her. "Well, we'll leave the two lovebirds alone... you know that dragon and her are impossible to escape from each other," Ryusei commented, as they all left from their sight.

Kazuya licked his lips before grinning at her, making the princess became bit shy and the warmth on her cheeks never seemed to stop with his presence. "Heh, I love your blush... it really suited your look. My stubborn and passionate princess," he began with his cheeky smirk, while he crossed his arms.

He doesn't care what the others have to say about their relationship, he was with a mortal who never seem to let him go.

One of his most memorable memory was Shizuki, a half-Onikami princess and he--a mountain god trapped himself into a thousand years of punishment and seal to reflect. Even though he wanted to fulfill his mission of vengeance against Yuzuki, he wanted to have her closer to him. He wanted the warrior princess to stay.

The warrior princess raised her right eyebrow and pulled his left ear, making him yelped from her sudden action. She rolled her eyes at his remark, even the blushing never stops as Kazuya wrapped his arm around her shoulder. "Stubborn and passionate, huh?" she challenged him, squinting her eyes at him. That one confident was something that pissing her off, his gaze narrowed at her glare. "So, our journey isn't over yet... along with other gods and humans," Shizuki said while crossing her arms over her chest, looking away from his eyes.

Kazuya's hand grabbed her chin to turn her head so she can see him, bringing her closer to him so he can stare down at her eyes as her hands landed on his chest. "We have the time and space for ourselves, princess--there is no need to worry, and to answer your question: I don't have regrets when I'm with you, Shizuki."

She sighed softly when her hand reaching the collar of his kimono and pulling him down, pressing their lips together. Kazuya smirk behind their kiss when he felt their romantic moment was increasing at that, her left hand reach the back of his neck as she tilted her head slightly. While they shared a kiss, Kazuya spun her around before he pinned her on the edge of the bridge. Their time spent together was a perfect bliss that Kazuya need to make it happen. "I can't wait for four of us to explore around the land... finally freed from the sealing itself," Shizuki spoke, caressing his hair gently as she returned to reality.

The Dragon of the North Mountain heard her words which she made it very obvious, still his smile grew. "Four of us, huh...?"

As they kissed and spending their time in the privacy, Kaname watched when Yomi stood beside him with a smile. Ryusei seemed disgusted, he turned his head. "They do understand what are they doing in the public, right?" he asked, and so Kaname smirked. "Hey, Yomi and I are already lovey-dovey couple... it's not fun--"

"Okay, that was disgusting."

When they started to sparring with each other by using their weapons, Yomi raised her staff and she was throwing attacks on both of them as she was assisted by the land god. There's been a lot of things happened since Kazuya's memories was completely forgotten, even the past has been complicated and sometimes can bring a trouble. However, he doesn't want to be stuck inside the past and instead, enjoying the future and present with Shizuki. Their new formed friendship between Yomi and Kaname are undeniable... those two seems to be great warrior that protect the humanity.

Shizuki has been wondering about Yuzuki's role in the past, knowing her past life using a valuable pearl to become an immortal--through sharing some of her painful memory that Shizuki understand her, yet she has to stop her from being an irresponsible human who wants nothing but a immortality. Immortality could destroy the world and anyone who is greedy and wanted nothing but power. Kazuya was in pain because he was betrayed, Shizuki's kind and stubborn nature is pure unlike her past life, whom want the power of immortality just to be with Kazuya and protecting her child. In the mean time, they have to find the last pearl and sealed them before the world was under a threat. After everything was settle, Shizuki and Kazuya were living their lives, never lose each other for their dream is to live and die together.

The four members of Kazuya's Party began their path to gather the pearls in order to prevent Hozuki's army from spreading the panic across the whole land, especially the place she never believed in. That's what Hozuki is doing... or hiding something. The whole war would still continue in the near future as he and her will fight for the balance of the world, and how to prevent an evil deity from spreading. The power of gods was an easy weapon to defeat the humans... and they should protect their way of existence.

Shizuki and Kazuya seemed not stopping from their deep affection towards each other, in the mountains, in the forests, and inside a house during a battle. They were searching for the remaining pearls, after obtaining another one last time--they have to find at least more than two pearls before the war would consumed and cause an event. "Come on, Shizuki--do it on your own!" Kaname laughed, who was climbing on a tree to reach for the hidden pearl underneath the nest and followed by Yomi as Ryusei was keeping an eye for any monster will attacking them from above.

"I'll have to--huh?!"

Her fingers were reaching to pick up the Iridescent pearl, grabbing it before she yelled as she fell down--only to be captured by Kazuya, the great dragon and carrying her bridal style before they landed on the ground smoothly. "Looks like we found it, princess..." he teased, upon seeing her blush made him knew her weaknesses that she doesn't like being teased by a playful dragon god. "Put me down, jerk! I can walk myself!" she snapped, smacking his chest--and only to receive a pout on his face. "Next time, be careful."

Yomi also reaching out for the last remaining pearl in the rooftop of the abandoned temple, while Kaname hold her feet on his shoulders, the group were able to find more of the pearl and preventing them to lost their precious possession before they return back to the Kanagashima. The more they will take, they could prevent Hozuki's army would fight back and they have to be prepare for a final clash of the war.

Kaname was thinking with Yomi as they decided to stop searching for more of the pearls after their long trip, before the war will begins. As far as Hozuki's army are heading for them, he have to plan ahead in order to prevent that from happening. However, they received a news from High Priestess Munakata and the Second--Saotome that the Taiyou Palace is planning to war against Hozuki's army. Well... this isn't good for the world to survive unless there's a way to stop them and fight back...

The day arrived as they had a great battle of their lives, there are several people working together with the gods and Ten Guardians, whom are sealed by Yuzuki's strong sealing powers. "Look, we know you're a jerk Kazuya. But, this doesn't mean we could let Hozuki take all the fun. Remember... the whole humanity is being persecuted here," Kaname remarked, standing at the back of the mountain where Shizuki and Kazuya were in--while Yomi stood beside Kaname. "Remember, we believe in you. You should have the faith," the priestess commented.

Shizuki glanced at Kaname as she touched his hand, glancing at him as she believed in his devotion to protect the land from the monsters.

"I know, but..." Kazuya replied, smiling widely before putting his finger against his cheek. "I'm serious though, because Shizuki here doesn't like seeing me running around like a freaking idiot," he answered. "It's you that got yourself into danger in the first place... bastard," Shizuki huffed under her breath, as the air was slowly blown by the winds. From a distance, there were people were warring against the yokais--until Hozuki appeared out of nowhere and sending the people into scattered area and being slain by them.

"Well... looks like it's time."

The war of has just begun, Hozuki's army and the Taiyou Bakufu. Shizuki was wide-eyed to see Hozuki in his dragon form, she could sense Yuzuki's soul combined with the dragon as well--she frowned at the reason why did she have to do this? Shizuki clenched her fists, before she stood with her friends above the cliff--this is the last stand before they're going to fight for the honor to protect their lands. "We'll deal with the rest of his henchmen along Munakata-sama and Saotome-sama, she need our help," Yomi said with a smile, holding her golden ceremonial staff as Kaname punched his fist to his palm. "I can't wait to get all of us together!" he said with a grin, seeing Shizuki's friends below the cliff who were Haruka and Hayate.

Shizuki nodded, before she glanced at Kazuya who hugged her close to his chest and entangle her arms around his torso. "Kazuya..."

He put his thumb under her chin and he brought her to face him, he lifted her chin before he pressed his lips tenderly over hers. Her eyes closed as she put her hand on his smooth cheek, the strong-willed dragon gently tilted his head, deepening their gentle kiss and she exhaled deeply and softly, sinking into his warmth. "Both of us can defeat them together, are you ready?" she asked, making him snorted as their foreheads touched.

"I'm always ready for everything that waits for me..."

They can feel Yuzuki's wrath after seeing them, which Kazuya stared at her as Shizuki wondered the hell has possessed her so long, unable to see the truth behind her lust of living forever until she met her demise. When she turned into a living dead, she became more corrupted than ever with malicious intent. "Huh, I'm sad to see your face again, Yuzuki."

Kazuya joked as he was crossing his arms over his chest, before he used his hand to rub the edge of his own palm. Hozuki seemed to frown by seeing Kazuya as the former lover of Yuzuki, felt disgusted at him. "All this years, Yuzuki... cursed the Dragon God because of her obsession and destroying everything I loved... I wanted to say that--I'm no longer in love with you, and I find someone better than you, Yuzuki..." he grinned widely, while a bunch of yokai arrived to assist him, as an introduction--Kazuya began to summon Tsubaki and made him appear out of nowhere.

Tsubaki cracked up before he coughed when a cloud appeared behind his back, out of smoke came out the fortune god, he gasped. "This is my time to shine! Finally, I don't have to hide anymore!" the nogitsune announced. The light burst within the whole area, causing the dark atmosphere to vanish and the enemies covered their eyes by the sudden blinding light from him.

Both of them jumped down from the cliff and engaged a battle with the enemies, their skills were enough to fight alongside each other against their enemies. Kazuya transformed into his water dragon form and his serpent dragon body slithered into the air, Shizuki landed on top of his body as she used the white scallop shell compact with a tiny red bow tie decoration at its beak. She opened the compact as it has the crimson thick cosmetic cream with the scarlet Iridescent Pearl on it, she used her thumb and swipe some of the rogue and closed the compact--before she put it on her lips; enabling her transformation into her Onikami form.

Her dark cherry blossom eyes slowly becoming violet-colored with sharp black pupils, with red paint on the corner of her eyes and eyelids. A chocolate hair reverted into purplish-black with red tints of light as the sky turns dark gray with red clouds and lights, her fair complexion remained the same as her clothes changed into white kimono with black borders, sleeveless light burgundy sleeveless haori with high collars, with a pair of black fingerless gloves, red threads around her neck with red obi around her waist and haori--along a large crimson bowtie ribbon with motifs of yellow chrysanthemums. She wears a thigh-high red boots with plates and black borders with back heels, some parts of her hair behind her ear pulled into low high-ponytail by a red and gold hairpin with beads--a pair of red horns formed above her head and thick bangs.

Shizuki watched the yokais flies towards them, before she used her katana to slash all of them mercilessly in a blink of an eye. In order to gain speed, a crimson scallop shell was under her obi with a twin dragon motifs which symbolizes to manipulate spiritual energies, they went to a large hordes of the enemies. "Hmph," she hummed, not caring about death just as long she remains to defend herself and the friends she had bonded. Even this form is more than enough to get rid of Hozuki, if she could beat Yuzuki; then Hozuki was nothing more than her pawn.

Kazuya opened his maws to create an oceanic whirlpool with a pressure that engulfed all of his enemies, leaving none alive, there is always a pattern and skill to break it down. Hozuki felt his wings weakened a little when Kazuya released a battle cry, using his ability with powerful force--that slowly ripping apart. "Shizuki... you have faced yourself, hm?" Yuzuki taunted calmly, making her hissed--immediately holding her sword as it channeled her godly powers, she prepared for her final attack towards her rival. Both women raised their weapons in order to unleash their most powerful strikes, only to be stopped when Shizuki and Yuzuki was separated by a powerful distance.

Standing in between them was Hozuki and Kaname; it was a perfect distraction as their movements have ceased in a shocking way. Hozuki was able to fly away while his army retreated, resulting a small wound on Kaname's stomach after he coughed blood. "You coward!" Kazuya roared loudly, before Hozuki screamed and blasted a powerful thunder.

Tsubaki came to the rescue as she went to defend everyone from being killed by Hozuki's blast, before a strong gust of the wind went to surround the surroundings as Takashi floated up towards them. Shinoe chanted a mantras as the Tamayori-Hime casted a spell on them from her Iridescent Pearl, while Tamotsu summoned a blue flames that burning anything that comes on his path.

Shizuki managed to get a hold of Takashi's flying dragon form as she jumped and slashed the lightning beast in a single cut as the black blood streaming on it. Hozuki growled angrily before Yuzuki chanted another spell to help her son, opening a large portal that Kazuya recognized very well--while the Emperor and Shogun of Taiyou Palace were frozen. "No, they were getting away!" Takashi cried out, leaving Tsubaki, Tamotsu and Izayoi remained furious when the tried to flee. "Not so fast," Yomi muttered, before she slammed the tip of her staff that blocked the portal from escaping.

Yuzuki narrowed her eyes, even when she's once the powerful priestess of Kyushu Island, her power have significantly eroded over time after her awakening to kill Shinoe until she was stopped by Kazuya and now she realize; because she wished to have eternal life to stay with Kazuya and have the power to fight for the nation. Kazuya will never forgive her and he doesn't want to lose Shizuki in front of him, he wanted to tell her everything he had in his heart but the Priestess--no, now, the Dark Priestess refused to believe and let her selfishness betrayed him.

Shizuki landed on the ground in front of Yuzuki, she evaded her attack swiftly and performed one slash towards her shoulder. A powerful shockwave unleashed by the blade, Yuzuki didn't waste the time as the rain went to descend and flooding the place. Shizuki cannot let her guard lowered while watching Yuzuki, she won't let her soul take control, because she have the Iridescent Pearls in possession. "Enough, Yuzuki. This is my body, mind and my heart, this is the last chance I want to tell you that you need to accept our souls' destiny!" Shizuki yelled, creating a bolt from the air in order to electrocute the dark priestess.

Yuzuki's arm was severed during this clash, resulting her getting back away in pain and suffering. "So... are you saying that I was the wrong all along...?" Yuzuki asked, seeing Kazuya went to bite Hozuki's dragonic neck and hold him still. Shizuki sighed, staring back at her with a small smile. "I understand you, even if it was selfish or greedy, I know you were lonely..." Shizuki retorted in a soft tone, but they didn't have time for sympathy.

They don't have to kill each other in the name of vengeance and to revive their vengeance, those who are willing to change will be cleansed by the corruption they owned. "You... what do you know about me... I... loved him as much as you, no, he loved me..." Yuzuki said in rage, she was taken back to the moments Kazuya remembered her the same way how he acknowledged Yuzuki's love towards him. "Yes, but look at what you just did to the world! Making Kazuya chose between me and you..." she whispered, the painful look on Kazuya as he could be enraged but they were just memories from the past--he doesn't love her in the present, is that why?

Shizuki turned her eyes towards the sky, and Takashi went into his humanoid form. "Yuzuki, I admit that you're cruel. But, seeing you like this..." she mentioned with a pity, holding her katana.

Yuzuki could feel the tears streaming down her face--as the mother who she respected the most remained firm, silently begging that Yuzuki will no longer be a monster any longer and turned against her rightful purposes. "Lies... lies!" Yuzuki growled before she charged towards Shizuki, the latter who was unfazed by her rage made her pissed off. Shizuki heard a voice from Kazuya in her head, which says: "Shizuki, your decision whether to end her or not is up to you--remember to stay loyal, powerful and not letting your focus broke the balance and peace," he spoke.

"Kazuya..." she replied with a hiss, focusing herself from letting her rage control her. "Yuzuki, enough!" Shizuki roared, before she swung her katana one more time, this is where everything were changing... she slashed her before a huge light engulfed her with her eyes closed. Yuzuki screamed as she morphed into the undead, holding her own head as the splatters of blood streaming down her cheek, and her opponent felt very sympathetic as she looked down in guilt.

Shizuki sheathed her katana to her sheath, looking at Hozuki who growled before he began to disintegrate. Kazuya put the dying evil dragon beneath him and saw Yuzuki's body disintegrated and suddenly infusing with Hozuki's body. Their eyes widened when it creates an even more evil creature from the merger and soon went to leave through the portal, before Shizuki and Kazuya growled. "Huh... let' do this..." Shizuki answered, going to make a last slash towards the portal as it vanishes along Hozuki-Yuzuki's new form. They defeated the Emperor and Shogun of Taiyou as they were beaten by them, which Shizuki had to stop these duo by working together with him. "What the--"

Suddenly, their new form began to explode--making their remnants scattered everywhere as everything went black.

***

Shizuki opened her eyes as she was laying on the ground in her human form, she winced in pain before she felt Kazuya's arms around her--seeing that Yomi is already along Kaname; the others are okay... despite their injuries. "W-What happened...? What about Hozuki and Yuzuki's soul..." Shizuki asked, confused and the black-haired man beside her slowly opened his brown eyes. "They became remnants... bastard, they really did know how to flee."

Kaname noticed both of them were slowly returning back to their senses and Yomi slowly stood up--turning to see Saotome and Munakata talking with the officials of Taiyou Palace. Shizuki trembled as she got up, their clothes remain the same while she covered her lips and leaning closer towards Kazuya's forehead and whispering. "No matter what, we have to face the consequences, right...?" she asked him. Kazuya only smirked and raised her chin up with his finger gently, and pecked her lips.

"And no matter what the cost, our hearts are meant to be. Remember, Shizuki... you and I. Our dream is to protect the balance, isn't it?" he responded, before they stood as Shizuki tried not to break down during their adventure until he whispered. "We'll get rid of their remnants, our journey isn't over yet... this is just a beginning," he said, causing her to nod as she felt his arms against her waist while it was a perfect day for Kazuya to finally learn to defeat his former lover. Even as they walk among others, both Shizuki and Kazuya understands what friendship and how to become happy even in difficult situations.