Himura_battousai
Copyright© 2011 by Murasame
Chapter 145: Houji's Devotion
A devil wrapped in flame, Shishio disappeared into the fire laughing. What was the meaning of that last laugh? No one undestood ... And so-- (They stand staring at the blackened stones.)
Sanosuke: Not a trace left ... He really just burned away. (looking at Kenshin) You won.
Kenshin (bowing his head): No...
(Houji falls to his knees.)
Houji: He didn't lose! He did not lose! Lord Shishio cannot lose!
(Screaming, he runs from the platform.)
Aoshi: He's gone mad...
(Yumi's watch drops to the floor as Kenshin collapses.)
Sanosuke: Kenshin!
(The heavy iron doors creak shut.)
Sanosuke (pounding on the door): Dammit! That pointy-eyed bastard! It won't open! Even if I could use the Futae no Kiwami, they're too thick--
Aoshi (remembering Shishio's words to him): After the Amakakeru Ryuu no Hirameki, your attacking power is nil. (aloud) Damn him...
Sanosuke: If we don't get out of here quick Kenshin'll--
Saitou: Stand aside.
(He assumes Gatotsu stance.)
Aoshi: The Gatotsu...
Sanosuke: Wait a minute--you're hurt too--
(Saitou punches through the doors.)
Saitou (even though his wounds are bleeding again): I've gotten through more of these situations than you.
Sanosuke (Kenshin slung over his shoulder): Let's get out of here!
(They start across the walkway, but the entire structure suddenly shakes. One of the chimneys bursts and falls over.)
Sanosuke: The battlefield--it's exploding!
(Houji is down in the boiler room chopping at pipes with an axe.)
Houji: Ha ha ha! Die, die! Everybody dies! If everyone dies no one wins, and Lord Shishio is invincible! Only Lord Shishio will forever be unbeaten!
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