Shiro Yukashima's Story

The feel of the younger male against him was welcoming. The fact that Minnow curled up against him and kissed him back made it even more complete. The smaller protector fit so perfectly between his arms. Sometimes Kanan worried he'd crush the poor boy because he was so much smaller than he was. But, Minnow was very hardy and there was no reason to worry. Tilting his head a little, Kanan was planning to taste more of the young healer. Completely ignoring the rain or anyone else that may be around. He was lost in holding the one thing that kept him going.

Until the voice hit the air that had Minnow snapping back to reality and breaking away.

"Keep it toned down out here Kanan! I know you missed'im but some of us do have innocent eyes."

Their eyes met briefly as Minnow looked up at him after breaking the kiss. Kanan didn't miss the look in his gaze and he hoped that his own smoldering gaze got across to the young healer as well. With an internal sigh as Minnow pulled away from him, Kanan turned to look over at Rhoven who had interrupted him. His good eye narrowed slightly at the young boy whom Amon had taken in some time ago. The kid was good at what he did, but it seemed he'd gotten his teasing aspect from Amon. Maybe the young apprentice just was around the King far too much.

"I'm not sure how 'innocent' you really think yourself to be," Kanan answered, his voice low. It was hard to tell if he was teasing or being serious. Until he stepped up to the landing where Minnow had gone to greet the King. Reaching out he took the young boy's cheeks between his fingers and pinched, pulling the skin outward at the same time to give him a funny looking face. When the young apprentice joined with them, Kanan had been unsure of him. But his young look and the way he acted sometimes made Kanan see him as a kid to which he couldn't help but to pick on every now and then. After all, it was pay back for interrupting his welcoming to Minnow.

”I hope everything’s gone well in my absence?”

"Aside from the council pressuring our King to close the way to Reimrand and other petty ideals, all is well." Kanan answered Minnow's question as he continued to pull at Rhoven's cheeks even if the boy managed to free himself, the taller, one-eyed protector would just grab at him again. Honestly it was rather entertaining for the moment and also kept his mind off of sweeping Minnow away to have some much needed quality time together. Alone. Just a little while longer and he would have the young healer all to himself. And neither of them were sleeping, Kanan had already decided that the moment he'd felt the other protectors presence.

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"I know that Amon is fighting with his council as well to keep the borders open. All I'm proposing is guards around the actual entrance. We can't keep allowing people just randomly finding the place. You know how dangerous it is down there, Siya. Too many have died already because they've been lost in the labyrinth and killed by the Drewdan, or even killed by-"

The doors opened and a ringing, song like voice hit the air, cutting through Valrien's speech. "Master Siya. Prince Valrien."

Valrien turned to the voice and watched the young woman stride into the throne room. Siya, who had been focused on the Prince shifted in his seat and stood up to greet her, a warm smile spreading his lips. Coming down the dais, the Fire King welcomed his second Protector as she made her way into the very large, spacious room.

"Dream! Welcome back." Siya said as he followed her back up to the throne where she was headed.

"Master Siya, I have just arrived. Thank you for your consideration of letting me visit them."

"Please, enough with 'Master'," the young King chided though his smile never faded, "Siya is just fine. I can hardly stand being called 'My Lord' or 'Your Highness'... Sire is bearable though. But honestly, just Siya. And you're very welcome. There's no need to even ask as you did. I know it is important to you."

"Prince Valrien. It is a pleasure to see you come here again. Please do not hesitate to ask if there is anything you need."

Valrien shifted a bit uncomfortably. If only Lutchka were with him he'd probably be less on edge. He hated how he'd come to depend on her to keep him in line and from choosing the wrong words. Though it seemed to happen anyway. Especially when dealing with someone like Dream. He didn't know how to answer her, or how to deal with the woman. Hell, it took him three years just to get used to Siya's attitude. With a sigh, he turned away from her so as not to keep eye contact, a deep frown on his face, "I'm capable enough on my own if I need anything. Not to mention I think I'm here enough to know where everything is if I have need of it," he answered stiffly.

Siya gave a soft laugh as he reseated himself upon the throne, just on it's edge as he leaned forward to listen to the rest of what they had been discussing.

"I am sorry if I have interrupted your conversation. I will accept any punishment you deemed fit for my rudeness."

The young King sighed and at the same time Valrien sighed as well, rolling his eyes as he turned enough to look up at her from where she stood next to her King, "You forget who it is you're speaking to, little Protector. Siya wouldn't harm a fly." Valrien huffed in irritation.

With a slight shake of his head, Siya turned to look at Dream and with his usual kind smile he reached out and patted her arm gently, "You've done nothing wrong, Dream. Relax. Your trip has been long. You don't need to be here if you don't wish to be." Siya answered as he turned back to Valrien. Although I must wonder where Shiro is... He is usually always by my side. The young Fire King wondered briefly. Perhaps he would send Dream to find him later. Or maybe Shiro would come in soon.

"As for the patrols you're asking for Valrien. I know that it may sound like a good idea, but it will look like we're trying to control the public and further enforce the ideas that the Kingdoms can no longer be protected. If we're trying to keep them from going into Reimrand, then it will garner more suspicion about Reimrand and our involvement with one another. I would prefer not to do so. The ones that you have already are bad enough. I know that you're only looking out for our people, but I'm not sure having our soldiers out there is the proper way of dealing with it."

"Then if we are not keeping them out, what do you propose we do? Let them run wild down there and have more die because of it? Siya, surely you can't think that my men alone are the only things needed to keep people from dying! And just telling the public that they cannot enter hasn't done anything at all to keep them from doing so!"

Siya sighed heavily, rubbing at his eyes, "What if we allowed them to enter Reimrand, but with an escort?"

Valrien's mouth opened as if he were going to retort with something but he stopped the moment Siya's words sunk in. It wasn't what he'd been expecting the young King to say. Pausing for a moment, the Prince's gaze dropped, his mismatched eyes searching the floor as he thought about that proposal, "That... Could work. It would open relations between the people and show them just what exactly is in Reimrand. The only problem is the land is still recovering. Most of it is back to normal, but there are still some waste lands that could be dangerous. But if they're with an escort than..." Valrien shrugged a bit as he lifted his gaze to Siya's fiery eyes, "I'll propose this to Amon as well and see what he thinks. I think this may be doable. A few years ago I would have said no, but... Reimrand is recovering well... It should be fine."

Siya leaned back a little, a smile on his face as he was obviously happy about the outcome of their discussion. There had been much to discuss, between Reimrand's economy, trades that may be available later on, the people in Iveir in regards to their anger towards the Kings, and finally to the last bit of Reimrand's entrance being patrolled or not. "Good. I'm glad we could figure things out. I would like to meet with Amon as well. It has been a very long time since we last saw one another." Siya mused as he relaxed finally.

"Yes... It has I suppose. More importantly though... How are you, Siya?"

"What do you mean? I'm alright."

Valrien's gaze narrowed, his frown deepening, "You cannot lie to me. You haven't mourned have you?"

Siya went quiet and his eyes fell away from Valrien's. A flash of deep sadness, hurt, and loneliness crossed his face. Though it didn't last long, Valrien caught it very well. His fingers curled tightly and his voice shook a bit as he finally answered after some time of silence, "I'm fine. There's no time for anything else right now. If I stop now..." the shaking increased and it sounded as if he were on the verge of tears. Valrien felt a pulse of guilt, but he knew that the young King had been shoving those things to the side. He didn't want to deal with it. The loss of his protector and lover, the loss of friends on the way. The more he pushed it aside, the more it would build up and it would destroy him eventually. Valrien needed Siya to be strong and though he looked it on the outside, he was far from it.

"Seeing Amon and the others will be good for you. You can mourn then, and you should."

The young Fire King only nodded as he took several deep breaths and finally got that mask on over his face once more. A smile lifted his lips, though his eyes still danced with the pain of the past, "Thank you, Valrien. But I'm alright. If you need anything else, let me know. I'll send a note to Amon. I wish to accompany you there when you leave."

Valrien sighed, but simply nodded in agreement before he turned and left the throne room. Siya was keeping it together very well. That mask of his had to have been something he'd built while the others hadn't been looking. Valrien was hopeful Amon, and maybe even Minnow, could coax it all out of him. The Prince knew Siya would be better once he got through all of the stuff he'd bottled up. The only thing was getting Siya to let it out.

The door shut with a solid snap behind him. Siya left the throne room with hurried steps, a scowl on his lips, head down, and his stomach twisting in so many knots he thought he would be sick. Take the throne? Overthrow me by force!? They're mad! I need to find out who is behind it... One of the nobles... Someone who has spoken out before?

Siya had his mind completely taken over by other thoughts. Stress, frustrations, annoyances, older feelings he didn't want to contend with. It all boiled just under the skin, and it was everything he had not to show too much of it.

Walking without paying any attention, Siya continued his fast pace down the hall, no destination in mind particularly. His feet just carried him, taking a right turn that would automatically lead him to his study.

Shiro took a sharp breath as he deflected the oncoming attack from his instructor the wood against wood set Shiro back slightly though he moved to strike the older males side, the wood connected to the mans rib cage causing a sharp yelp to emitt from his throat, "Good Shiro, you're getting better" the man said as he stepped out of the circle in which they fought within. The protector gave a soft nod to indicate that he heard his superior and understood "Thank you sir" He muttered slightly short of breath.

Wiping the sweat that beaded along his forehead with his shirt, he sighed and moved his own frame out of the ring, "I will see you next week Shiro I expect you early" The guard gave a nod and turned to leave, he had to find the fire king now that he had been gone for several hours and he was sure the young king would be wondering where he had gotten off too.

Before he went in search for his young lord he had dropped by his own room to change into his armour, sliding of the training shirt that clung to his body from the sweat that binded the material to his chest, when he got it free from his hot skin he sighed in relief. After a few seconds of the cool air drying his skin, he proceeded to pull on his uniform and then attach his armour clipping the heavy metal into place followed by his holsters and weapons. That's better

Leaving his room while shealthing his sword he went to look for the young king, he decided to start with the boy's study and then the library. Quickly the young protector moved through the hall towards the younger males study, quietly his footsteps landed on the ground as he made his way. Soon he caught sight of the young boy and called to him "My lord!" moving into a soft jog he came up beside Siya.

At first Siya didn't hear the young protector. Or rather older protector seeing Siya was rather young himself. It wasn't until Shiro was right next to him that the young Fire King realized he had been spoken too. Glancing over briefly, Siya offered a rather forced smile before his gaze slipped back to the stone floor.

Siya kept the same pace, a rather automatic route to his study. He had been in there so much it could be considered his room. The moment he looked away, his thoughts went straight back to dealing with an uprising. How many would oppose him? How easily would they succeed? Was he ready for something like this? Probably not.

"Damn it..." he hissed to himself, suddenly halting in the hallway. His fingers curled into tight fists as he fought to remain as unemotional as possible. He was failing though. Reaching up, one hand curled into his white locks as he cursed again, "Damn it!" He let out a frustrated sort of growl after that, eyes squeezed tightly shut.

The older male nodded at the young king noting the way the boy's smile was different to his usual one, watching Siya lower his gaze back to the ground Shiro knew that something was bothering the young king but decided against saying anything to the young male as it may upset him further. Walking silently along side the smaller boy the protector was lost in his own thought of his morning and how he probably should of skipped training to be beside the man he was meant to protect.

The guard looked over at Siya as the soft words drifted through the air towards his ears and rested within his own mind, what was bothering the young male was beyond the protector but he knew it was getting to him as the boys hand moved up into his own locks of hair "Siya?" Shiro's voice was soft and barely audible as he reached out to the boy.

Softly the guard moved resting his hand on Siya's shoulder and pulled the younger male towards him "Whats wrong my lord?" He asked as his gaze fell on the kings crimson orbs, the beauty of them almost always took the older males breath away from him and even in the state the young king was in they still managed to snatch Shiro's breath away from his lungs though he made sure to show no sign of this as he awaited the other males answer.

"Shiro," Siya took a deep breath as he uttered the protectors name. With Shiro's hand on his shoulder, Siya found it hard to keep his composure. Why had Valrien asked him such a personal question? Why had he gotten under the young kings skin so easily?

Whatever the case, for some reason Siya couldn't help the tears that welled in his eyes. His breath shortened, his body shook. "W- why?" he took a deep shuddering gasp of air as he stared up at the tall Protector.

"l- I cant.." What was he trying to say? It just wasn't coming out right at all. If only he hadn't let his emotion's pile up like they had. Since the tears had started there was no stopping them now. Leaning forward, he bowed his head, one hand reaching and gripping Shiro by his arm tightly.

"Please, just stand there for a moment." The young king managed through his tear filled voice. Perhaps in a moment he would manage to tell Shiro what had happened, but not right then.

In that moment Shiro was slightly taken aback by the boy's tears, ignoring his normal way of dealing with the king when he was upset the young guard gently moved his thumbs under the boy's eyes wiping away the salty water that threatened to slide down the young males face. He stood there quietly allowing the young king to try and talk through his bubbling emotions that had seemed to just explode all at once in front of the protector.

Watching the smaller male breaking down was killing Shiro inside, after all he was meant to keep the boy alive but he also tried his hardest to keep Siya happy as well. Feeling the gentle grip on his arm pulled the older male out of his thoughts of feeling as though he had failed the younger male that stood in front of him.

Instead of just standing there as he was asked, the protector gently pulled the boy against his chest, his free arm encircling around the boy's waist. Swallowing dryly he sighed softly "It's ok Siya" He mumbled gently to the king as he rested his chin gently atop of the young males head as he held him against his chest.

It hadn't been expected. Being pulled up against his Protectors chest, an arm around his waist. The words spoken to him were like another trigger. The tears came harder, Siya's voice rose as he sobbed against Shiro, unable to hold it in anymore. "I can't! Do This! "he cried out, his voice only slightly muffled by Shiro's chest.

Siya reached up and curled one hand around his protectors neck while the other hand took a fist full of the male's armor, clinging to him.

"I'm going to be dethroned, Shiro!" Siya started, "They want a war with me! They will probably kill me! And destroy everything I have worked so hard to do with Valrien! Damn it!" Siya clutched at Shiro, sobbing and landing a bit of a frustrated punch on his chest.

Shiro froze slightly in place as he felt the young king start to cling to him his words high pitched pleas, his eyes slightly widened at the mention of the young king being dethroned, at a war starting against the small lord, Shiro's arms softly both moved around the boy's body hugging him closer to his protector, Quietly he wished that he could do more for the boy then just stand there holding him but there wasn't much he could do at that moment other then hug his small frame against his larger one.

Feeling the frustrated punch against his own chest almost made Shiro lose his temper to going after whoever made his king feel like this and ending their life, though he thought better and tried to control his temper instead just talking to the fire king instead of doing anything that he might regret, "Siya... I swear to you I will let no harm come to you unless I myself am no longer breathing" It wasn't the first time that the young male had made that promise and it most certainly wouldn't be the last as he had dedicated his life to the young king when he was given to oppotunity at his crowning.

Siya cursed continually, his voice paritally muffled against Shiro. At that point, he had lost all resonable thinking. Everything came crashing down on him then, "I've lost too much to be taken down like this! If I... Lose... Their deaths... his death will be for nothing. I can't... Shiro, help me..." Siya muttered the last part as he became light headed and dizzy. His hold on Shiro loosened and he felt an overwhelming darkness start to take over. To much work, too much stress, his body lost all strength and he collapsed.

The protector nodded slightly at the boy's outburst, his voice was high and loud as he pleaded and cried out about the people he had lost. Although the last part was muttered from the king's lips the guard still managed to hear it and respond, moving swiftly as the young male started to crumble "Siya" Shiro's voice was low as he lowered the smaller males body down to the ground as he held his little frame in his arms "Siya wake up" The guard pleaded as he gently shook the boy, he felt utterly useless at that point like he had failed the boy, he couldn't even stop the king from collapsing on him, "Siya" Shiro repeated and rested the younger male's body against himself "I'm right here, come back to me I'm going to help you I promise" not sure if he could carry through with the promise Shiro just sat there trying to make sense of the situation that was happening before his very eyes.

Someone is calling... the slight drop from consciousness had Siya feeling like he had been dreaming for hours. How long had he been asleep? Was it even sleeping? He couldn't tell. Hell, when was the last time he had actually had a full nights sleep?

It was laughable to think he'd gotten a full nights sleep. As the voice called his name again, his gaze slowly peeled open, languid and not quite there. He gave a moaning groan, shifting against whomever held him. Siya didn't want to wake up, he wanted nothing more than to sleep.

Hell, he couldn't even really move, so what was the point. "Sleep..." he moaned, sounding more like the child he looked like than a King.

The protector wasted no time in moving the king softly into his arms and pulling him against his chest as he lifted the boy from the ground and rose to his own feet. He swallowed softly as he held the young king in his arms as though he was a bride being carried over the thresh hold of a house, smiling lightly at his own thought he spoke to the boy with a gentle tone to keep him calm as he started to walk towards the boy's quarters rather then his study "I know my lord, just wait till we get to your room, stay awake with me til then, tell me a story while we walk" He offered.

To Shiro this wasn't for his entertainment, it was rather him making sure that the young king was alright to fall asleep again, to make sure there was no reason to worry if the younger male went into a soft slumber. His heart was thumping heavily against his own chest as he walked the halls of the large home that they both lived within towards his king's room.

The question, normally strange to Siya, right then it prompted words that he didn't think he would ever utter to anyone, "Reimrand was nothing but a wasteland. We went because Valrien needed us," he wasn't sure if he was making sense, but at that moment he really didn't care because his thoughts were elsewhere, "His brother tried to kill us many times. He almost succeeded quite a few times."

Tears started again, "Renard was everything to me. Beautiful, strong, dedicated. Too dedicated. He put my life ahead of his. And it cost him. Cost us both. He died in Reimrand. Valrien's brother succeeded in what he was trying to do. Renard died... Killed in front of me..." Siya said, his fingers reaching and gripping tightly onto Shiro, "Don't you dare do the same thing," Siya ordered, his voice taking on a different tone through his crying.

The young protector was quiet as the young king told the first part of his story, it didn't really make much sense to the protector but he listened anyway, he was just glad that the king was able to remember and say the story. As the guard carried the boy past each doorway the story got deeper in meaning and Shiro found himself paying full attention to each word that dropped from the other's lips. Not too long after the boy had started his story did they reach the main hall, Shiro knew the home like the back of his hand and found himself taking the longer route in order to hear more of the king's words as if there was something further that he hadn't been told yet.

As the tears started to dampen the young king's cheeks the older male stopped in his tracks and looked down at the younger boy, they way he spoke about the man he had loved and probably still loves made the guard's stomach turn and twist, it wasn't the fact that the story made him feel sick but rather that the story made him upset. Shiro had known about the young king's lover that had been killed but he'd never heard the actual story and it made him feel as though he couldn't even help the young boy through that.

Feeling the other's hands gripping onto the older male he looked into the young male's crimson orbs that were filled with the tears that pained the protector to see. His king's voice cut through his thoughts of just hushing him til they got to the boy's room where the protector could hold the younger boy close as he tried to explain that everything was going to be ok but the tone in Siya's voice had gotten rid of those ideas and replaced them with new ones "I'm not going to leave you, not like that." he had said "Not in anyway" he added as an after thought "I swear" The older male's blue hues searched the boy's face for a sign that he'd heard him as he started walking again towards the room "Let's get you to bed" He whispered.

Siya clenched his eyes shut tightly. Pulling his lower lip into his mouth, he nodded his head as Shiro spoke to him, reassuring him. Shifting around in Shiro's grip, he snaked on arm up around the protector's neck and buried his face into the man's armor. All he wanted right then was to sleep. He hadn't wanted to let the deep emotions rise and take over, but it couldn't be helped. The stress was getting to him. There was too much of it and he didn't know if he could handle much more.

But he had to.

Otherwise, he would lose the throne. He would lose his protectors that he gained then. He would lose everything he'd worked so hard for. Taking a deep breath he forced his mind to go clear. Siya didn't want to think about anything anymore. He let the gentle sway of his body as Shiro walked down the hall slowly lull him to sleep. He was far too tired, far too upset to even fight the darkness. So, the young King let it sweep him away.

If he could... He'd probably sleep forever.

But he had things to do. He couldn't sleep yet. Not yet...

Dream was currently sitting upon a bench within the castle gardens. Her eyes gazed at the blooming fire trees with their brilliant shade orange and red hues swaying gently against the sky light backdrop. It was reflected in her ombre orbs with a distant look reminiscent of forlorn. This was probably due to what had happened yesterday. It was indeed presumptuous of her to approach and to speak to her Lord like that. He must be very offended of it and that matter was certainly not to be taken lightly. The Fire King even hinted that in a subtle way towards her in not talking about it. That is why she really does not know how to present herself at this moment. Normally, she would have been by the side of her King at the first thing in the morning.

But... he might not want to see her...

She would not find that odd. It was only right to do so. Her fellow protector Shiro Yukashima should be by the King's side now. It should be fine even without her presence near the Lord. Her appearance might stir unwanted emotions and memories. She did not want that. Did she not vow to protect the Fire King? It was not to cause any kind of pain. She was really a disappointment. No wonder what she does, being alone is a fate given to her. Somehow, she has gotten used to that aspect of her life. There was nothing left to feel about it. Her eyes directed slowly to her hands curled on her lap and slowly melodious words spilled from her lips.

"In the span of time we live out our lives
Calmness sweeps us off our feet
In the end, we're left with memories kept
Locked away, as they spiral down and fade away from thee

As for me, I'll sing the song of now
For that's all that I can do
Though my memories escape me
They're a part of my heart, just as I have thought of you

Her eyes were closed as various memories played within her mind. There were no sense of time in them as they displayed the chronicles of her life. Something which she had accepted as part of her and allowed to be integrated into her very essence. She remembered being asked by many if she had ever been concerned about her past or had been haunted by it. The answer to that was a simple no. It was not arrogance or the aim to fool. She was truly not encased by her past. Instead, she allowed it to live on through her with every chance she receives. It was because she is not strong like everyone else believes. She was awfully weak and could not bear her own worries. So weak, she had forgotten what she had felt back then.

That was the pristine truth about herself and she would not lie about that. It is why she did not wish the same fate for the Fire King. He was capable of more strength than he is able to show now. Hopefully someday, he will be able to realize that even if she is not the one to do so. For that, she will continue to stay with him and will always pray for the time he will be able to finally smile truly. That is one of the reasons she had volunteered herself to be a protector. She felt the urge to watch over him until he is able to fully shine and blaze through this world. It is because she truly believed he will be a wonderful King despite what others may say.

al-a-re la-ye
al-a-re la-yo
al-a-re la-ya-a
al-a-re ya

al-a-re la-ye
al-a-re la-yo
al-a-re la-ya-a
al-a-re ya

Unaware of her surroundings, she had attracted audiences of various kinds. Birds flying above had taken their time to settle on the near branches. Butterflies fluttering about the flowers stilled. Trees seemingly moved to her harmony. Flowers bloomed brilliantly as if soaking her voice with fervor. Wind cradled her form with gentleness and care. The gardens appeared to have gained an aura of ephemeral beauty one that resembles of dreams filled with happiness. It was what she is really able to do when she sings bringing the sense of wishes and precious memories into the threshold of reality even for a moment, to be able to reconnect with them freely.

In the span of time we live out our lives
Calmness sweeps us off our feet
In the end, we're left with memories kept
Locked away, as they spiral down and fade away from thee

As for me, I'll sing the song of now
For that's all that I can do
Though my memories escape me
They're a part of my heart, just as I have thought of you

Just like so, her voice had been carried by the breeze into the various parts of the castle, much like a soothing whisper. She was oblivious to the calming atmosphere it had cast over the entire area. It was rather helpful especially with what had happened inside the throne room without her knowledge. Her song traveled ear to ear as some of the castle servants and guards would look at a far-away scenery. They knew well who was responsible for such dreamlike melody. It gave them a feeling of peace which would have even been heard even by those leaving the castle for their stated purpose, like a lover's murmur.

al-a-re la-ye
al-a-re la-yo
al-a-re la-ya-a
al-a-re ya

al-a-re la-ye
al-a-re la-yo
al-a-re la-ya-a
al-a-re ya..."

Then, the song finally ended as she opened her eyes again. The fire trees seemed to radiate and even brighter hue than real flames itself. It was not frightening, she felt complete warmth from it as a small yet gentle smile decorated her face. It was that point a young male servant came upon her. Actually, the boy was hesitant to approach because he has this feeling that if he did she would disappear like smoke. But, he also wanted to know she was real as anyone can be. "Lady Dream...?" Hearing her name, she looked towards the young boy who appeared to be flustered about something. "Yes? Is there something the matter?" The boy was now a nervous wreck, he actually called out to her without a clear purpose. Stupidity knows no bounds, it seems.

Ah, that is right!

"I have come to inform you that His Highness had visitors earlier from the messengers of Nobles of Fire. Prince Valrien had also already left for the Air Kingdom. Uhm, that is all." The boy quickly bowed and dismissed himself without waiting for Dream's response. He was far too embarrassed already and did not want to stay any longer for he might die. On the other hand, Dream blinked her eyes a couple of time because of the oddness of what occurred. Not because of the boy's attitude but of what she had heard. The King had planned to go to Air Kingdom as well. Then, there was these messengers of Nobles of Fire. What did they intend to deliver to the King? Somehow, she felt great worry and forgot her shame of what happened yesterday. She wanted to see the King and so she did as she left the gardens.

Unknown to her, a pair of eyes was watching her from a distance. They were filled with blooming interest and something meaningful. And like a passing wind, the owner of those eyes vanished without a trace.

On the other hand, she had finally found what she had been looking for as she walked through the hallways of the castle. Actually, she was about to head for the study where the King had been spending most of his days in. It was then she saw her fellow protector and the King together. That was good. At that point, she was hesitant to show herself. The King appeared to be at ease in Mr. Shiro's arms.

There was no need for her and so... she bowed her head in acknowledgement of their presence whether she was noticed or not and then turned her back at them. She would make her way to leave. This was for the better, perhaps.

He'd fallen asleep in Shiro's arms. If he'd slept with the protector nearby or even next to him the whole time, Siya didn't remember. All he could recall was an upsetting feeling, his stomach twisting into a thousand knots and finally being consumed by darkness after recounting horrible events.

Slowly shifting around on the large bed he'd be put in, he curled his arms up under the cool pillows and closed his eyes again. He relished the touch of the sheets against his body, the cold feel of the pillow cases on his hands and arms, the way it felt with his head pillowed in the fluff. Siya took a deep breath. He felt better. Perhaps even... Lighter? Maybe it was because he'd finally slept for the first time in ages. And not just a few hours. The entire night. Maybe longer.

What time was it?

Siya pulled himself up and forced his weary body that begged to remain in bed, out. Moving to the curtains that had been drawn, he pulled them back and quickly raised a hand to block out the blaring heat of the sunlight that pelted down on his eyes. Letting the drapes fall back, he turned and took a deep breath. Afternoon... How long did I sleep!? he nibbled on his lower lip as he felt a mini panic attack shoot through his chest.

He'd been asleep for that long?! Why did no one wake him? Maybe Shiro kept him asleep. Maybe he needed it. The young Fire King wasn't about to admit that he needed the rest though. So, he set about changing quickly and addressing his elder protector on the matter of allowing him to sleep for so long. Siya sighed as he moved about the room, making plenty of noise as he did so. Cursing slightly to himself on how his protectors hadn't woken him that morning.

At the same time, he felt a bit of relief though. Happiness seemed to pick at his chest. The two protectors that he'd gained... They were sweet to him. Kind. Patient. Most of all... They were so patient. Siya supposed he couldn't have asked for more. With a soft sigh, he hurried to finish dressing so that he could get back to what was important.

Finding out who the hell was after his throne.

~~~

Four Days Later

Siya stood at the head of a huge table, his gaze narrowed in one of his rare shows of anger. His lower lip was currently being bitten by his teeth as he glowered at the map strewn out across the table. The general of his army was standing in the room with him, a sour look on his face.

"Sire... The loyalists city is under seige. At this rate... We'll lose the only thing that stands between us and the Nobles of Fire."

Nobles of Fire... Siya's thoughts went dark. For the past four days, that name had been the bain of his existence. They had made good on their word. Attacking many of the loyalist cities and villages. The people who stood with Siya were suffering. Yet, there he was, standing in the safety of his castle while his people were dying.

Slamming his fist into the table, the little peices that were placed upon the map to indicate his villages and cities, his army and the enemies, went bouncing. Searing pain lanced through his fingers, but he brushed it off, ignoring it entirely as he stared at the map. Taking several deep breaths, Siya managed to calm himself if only slightly.

"Fine," he uttered in a partial growl of rage, "They want a fight with me. They can have it," he snarled.

"My lord," the general sighed a bit before nodding his head. Siya's mind wasn't going to be changed. He wasn't giving up the throne, but he wasn't going to let his people continue to suffer either.

Shoving off the table he'd been leaning on, Siya looked up to his general and both protectors, "Get ready. We're leaving within the hour," he snapped the order and turned to leave to prepare himself for a very long and grueling fight.

~~~

Valrien pulled the reigns of the horse that he'd been riding hard. The beast panted heavily as he halted the creatures mad dash across the open plains. The castle that stood before him was always such a magnificent sight. Honestly, Valrien would have much prefered that style to the one that he currently resided in in Reimrand.

As the horse beneath him cantered from side to side, Valrien leaned forward and rubbed at the beasts neck, patting it slightly as he took a breath, "Sorry, Amon," he muttered. It was in regards to his rather quick appearance as well as forgoing sending a note ahead of him like usual.

"I'm sure Kanan already know's we're here anyway, so what's the point," he continued with a sigh and spurred the very tired horse forward to finish the trip through the gates. Four days... God I hope nothing has happened in four days... Valrien though as he hurried through the gates, up the gravel and dismounted at the base of the steps that led up to the double doors of the huge palace.

As predicted, the doors opened and a certain one eyed protector came out, a rather concerned look on his face, "My Lord..."

"Kanan, where is Amon? Quickly, it's urgent," the Prince said as he met the man halfway down the steps.

The protector gave him one look, a solemn look, then nodded and turned on his heel to head back into the palace, "This way, my Lord."

Harlan slowed his horse down when Valrien had, keeping his balance up on the creature as it stirred beneath him. He too looked out to the castle ahead of them, then over to his friend. "Nice view, ain't it?" he cracked before Valrien was already spurring his horse forwards. They were apparently not going to wait for the guards or anything, as the two of them rode up to the steps of the palace and were already hopping off.

Harlan looked up as the doors swung open, the one-eyed protector, Kanan, of the Air King was right there looknig towards the two of them. In only a few words though, all three were heading into the castle and making their ways through the hallways.

Amon was for once not sitting within his training room, as much as he would rather be. Instead, he once more was finding himself sitting within the council room, speaking to the congregation. the goodnews for Amon was that it had nothing to do with closing off Reimrand; the bad news was that it instead had to deal with the number of bandit attacks that had been occuring in the villages near the borders, far away from the capital of the Air Kingdom.

"Then it is settled, we can deploy more soldiers to the accosted villages, and hopefully fend off these roving bands of brigands." Amon said, sitting forwards in his seat as he looked up at the others. For once, they were actually finding themselves conversing in a bit of a civil manner, as they all were for dealing with whatever was stirring up the trouble.

Ilder bowed his head to the Air King, having been the one speaking the most. He then sat back down in his seat. "Sound amenable, your majesty. We shall send the notice to the generals as soon as we can. Is there...anything else you wish to discuss?" he asked, a bit hesitant as he knew how touchy the subject he wanted to mention was to the Air King.

His chance was foiled though as Amon stood up from his seat. "That will be all for today, councilers. Good day to you." with that, he bowed his head to them and quickly made his way out of the council room before things could get ugly again. Least this time he was leaving in a...sorta better mood than before. Still though, this bandit issue was the exact thing he hated most, and he'd lost plenty to people such as them.

Sighing and rubbing his face, he simply had his staff resting on his shoulder as decided to make his way towards his favorite place in the palace. Maybe he could get Lutchka and they could have a sparring match. That was always a sure-fire way to cheer himself up.

"Sire," Kanan called out for his king as he saw the man moving down the hall from them. Quickening his pace, Kanan attempted to catch up. Behind him the prince followed at the same pace. "Sire, Lord Valrien is here," he called though he probably didn't have to since the prince was right behind him.

"Amon, I need to speak with you immediately," Valrien said, speaking over Kanan as he reached Amon's side, "It is Siya. Someone is planning to try to usurp him."

Amon glanced back over his shoulder at the sound of Kanan calling out to him, a response on his lips before he turned to notice Valrien and Harlan following the protector. Amon raised an eyebrow, smiling as he turned to adress them. "Valrien! It's good to see you here, how are th-"

Then he was interrupted by Valrien, Amon's smile vanishing all together as a look of confusion replaced it. He let the staff slide down his arm and to the floor as he turned completely to face them. "Wait, wait. Usurp him?! Why? What for?" Amon looked down to the ground, a scowl forming on his face. He then looked back at Valrien. "Because of this whole, Reimrand thing?! Shit...I knew things were rocky but...but not that bad."

"I don't know the reasons. Siya told them he was not going to give up the throne. They're going to take it by force. And the group I saw deliver the message..." Valrien shook his head slightly, his teeth grinding again, "They are not to be taken lightly. Who ever they are, they are going to be strong and Siya is not in the right state of mind to handle something like this on his own."

Valrien looked over to Harlan, hoping the man would help at least a little in the decision process, though he was fairly sure that Amon would agree. After all, it was Amon he was speaking to. Next to the King, Kanan shifted uncomfortably, his pale blue eye trained first on Valrien then onto his King.

"Sire..." was the only word uttered from his lips. It wasn't really a full question. More like prompting Amon to make a decision and quickly.

"That was four days ago, Amon. I couldn't get here any faster. Who knows what's happening there by now. And what about when we get there! It is four days back!"

"Yeah, Valrien ain't joking here," Harlan began, glancing to the prince then back to Amon, "They were some fierce looking customers. A woman covered in more steel than most blacksmiths have, two fellas covered head-to-toe in black, since apparently that's fashionable..." he trailed off for a moment before getting back to the point. "And one of those guys was a fucking giant!! Hell, I'm certain most of us here would barely come up to the guy's chest. He'd break Siya in half with just his hands if he got a hold of the him."

Amon looked between Harlan, Varien, and even to Kanan when the protector spoke up. He then glanced to the ground, rubbing the back of his head before he cast a glance down in the direction of the council room. "Alright then. I can go, ok?" he then turned to look at Valrien. "The thing is, there is no way I could hope to bring my own soldiers though to help. Least not an army." he let his hand drop from his head.

Valrien stood silent for a while as he watched Amon. His chest was already tight from the apprehension, but it grew tighter as Amon said he couldn't bring his own soldiers to help. Still, it was better than nothing at all he supposed. Nodding his head, he swallowed to clear his dried throat, "That's fine, Amon. Siya has his own soldiers to help him. We'll make do with what we can. We should really hurry. I can only hope he hasn't done anything stupid yet."

Kanan nodded at Amon's decision and backed away a few steps, "Sire, I'll retrieve Minnow and Lutchka." the young Protector announced and without waiting, he turned and left them in the hall to do as he'd said.

"I want you to also get the attention of the head of the royal guard. I can at least bring some troops to help..." Amon called out after Kanan. He then sighed and looked back to Valrien.

Valrien turned a curious look on Amon, "Lutchka is here?"

Amon nodded his head to Valrien's question. "Yeah, she arrived a few days ago and has been staying here for a bit. Look I'll have to talk with you about this in a moment. I need to....inform the council and get my own things around. Excuse me." he said before quickly turning and heading down the hallway. "I'll meet you out front the main doors!!" he shouted back as he made his way down the hallway.

Harlan watched the king leave before looking at Valrien. He didn't say anything for a few moments, before finally speaking. "You know exactly what I'm going to tell you to do, buddy. So I'll refrain from that and just tell you, it'll be so awesome when you finally do it...and by it I mean her. Seriously."

Valrien nodded to Amon as he went down the hall to speak to his council. As he turned to go wait for the King as he'd been told to outside the front doors, Harlan's words stopped him cold in his tracks. A bit of an annoyed twitch cut through his demeanor as he ground his teeth yet again.

With a growl of frustration he whirled around and lashed out at the man "Harlan! Will you shut up about that! Damn it this is not the time!" once he finished his tirade, he turned on his heel and stormed out to the front doors leaving Harlan to recover and catch up when he wanted. God, sometimes he just really wanted to punch the man's face in.

Lutchka was busily training outside in one of the outer courtyards to the south of the castle when Kanan showed up. The one-eyed protector was always so quiet that when he spoke up, he startled her a bit. At least enough to make her miss her next hand position on top of the ivy-clad walls. She staggered slightly and a light stab of pain made itself known in her wrist. Nothing too serious, but it forced her to immediately shift her weight and return to her feet with a little thud. ”God, Kanan-“ Lutchka began, but it seemed he was in a hurry. And for good reason. They would be needing to head off to the Fire Kingdom quickly. Lord Siya’s position as king was being threatened, and Valrien was apparently here as well.

Lutchka tilted her head at that, a wry little grin unable to resist settling on her lips, though she immediately reprimanded herself. They needed to move as quickly as possible- Kanan’s tone had projected as much. The ex-protector crouched before hopping off of the courtyard wall, landing on the ground with a light thump. However, with the slight jarring, another little spark of pain returned at her wrist. She hissed quietly, shaking it out just a bit.

However, she moved as she did so, and grabbed the small tunic she had asked one of the servants to leave for her, and pulled it over her upper training garb. She then made a quickly paced run back to the castle.
--
”Not the time for what?” The fire user asked curiously, though her words were slightly muffled. She was using her teeth to gently remove her training gloves while her left hand rubbed at her right wrist. She had only caught the very last of what Chromi had yelled at Harlan, and that was from another room. Lutchka looked noticeably disheveled, with one sleeve askew on one shoulder and her shorts a bit wrinkled- she had had no time to fix them and furthermore didn’t even really notice them.

She grinned wryly at Harlan despite the current situation, it was always a pleasure seeing him as well. He was a wonderful tavern companion and drinking buddy, and he was fool enough to continue to try to bet against her during games, no matter how often the outcome was never in his favor.

Minnow was expectedly in his greenhouse, tending to a particularly poor plant- someone must not have been paying attention when they had walked through to enjoy the greenery, and had stepped on it. It was also slightly withered and just overall a really sad sight to see. It pained Minnow’s heart to see one of his own flora treated so poorly. Or so he liked to be dramatic about it when he could for his own amusement. However, when Kanan appeared from behind a few large trees, Minnow stopped what he was doing with a questioning look on his face.

It was then that Kanan informed him of what was happening, and he immediately shoved the soil back around the plant’s stem- he would have to worry about it another time. In fact, he had done pretty much all he needed to. Standing up from his kneeling position, he dusted off his hands and knees before following after Kanan back to the castle.

Turron’s walls were active with movement, its garrison moving around like ants riled from their ant hill. Troops moved back and forth as they moved equipment about, mages moved around as well, archers remained on watch as they stared out at the enemy who was camped less than a mile away from the stone fortifications. From both sides, large rocks flew towards one another as trebuchets fired their payloads at one another. Large stones slammed into the walls, intending to break their way through and make a path for the besiegers when they finally intended to make their assault; of course that was assuming they even intended to.

The attack on Turron had come so suddenly, and with little warning that they had no time to pull food and supplies into the city’s walls, and so now they had little to go on. It was clear the enemy was content to just sit back and starve out the defenders. That or they really didn’t have the necessary forces to risk in a siege.

No mages had stepped forwards yet from the enemy lines to try and force the walls down, because there was little chance of them succeeding before they would be cut down by defensive fire from those atop the walls. The earth mages atop the walls though were busy and active as they did what they could to patch up the holes that were made from the enemy siege weapon fire. They had to be sparing in their magic use though, as their spare metal was in short supply as it was also not a resource they had thought they’d need to stockpile. They couldn’t very well sacrifice their armor and weapons either, as it would be needed if the enemy ever attempted to storm the walls.

Duke Forson moved along the walls, in full armor and gear as he strode along to observe the preparations that were being made. Some soldiers fluttered about as they got catapults and ballistae ready, while some soldiers lounged about, watching the enemy camps in the distance and waiting for any possible movements. The Duke was happy because he hadn’t yet to see any attempt to tunnel beneath the walls from the enemy, though he had his own sappers on standby to head off any possible attempts.

This damned attack had come from nowhere, as it seemed these “Nobles of Fire” had not seen it necessary to announce to anybody that they were on the warpath. Two days ago the Duke had been handling some tax issues that had been brought to his attention, some merchant having been dodging them or what not. Then he got a notice that there was, not just a messenger in his manor, but there was also an entire army marching its way towards his city. He had sealed the gate before the enemy had arrived, but he found out from the messenger that Forson had the choice to both surrender and join the Nobles of Fire, or to be removed and have his city taken. Of course he had no idea what was going on, and when he recognized some of the heraldry that was on the banners of the Nobles’ army, it dawned on him that this wasn’t some group of foreigners storming in. As he learned, they were a group attempting to overthrow his majesty, Fire King Siya Ukomo, and Forson’s city happened to be along the way. Forson had refused to turn against the Fire King, and here he sat now with the Nobles of Fire knocking on his doorstep with siege weapons.

Forson sighed as he leaned against the battlements, looking out towards the enemy. He just hoped that the scouts he had sent out to warn and ask for help had made it to somebody. At this point, reinforcements were is only hope to getting out of this mess. He and his commanders had discussed possibly sallying forth and meeting the enemy out in the field, possibly catch them off guard with a sudden frontal assault. However, the idea was soon scrapped as they could see that the enemy was had already positioned troops in a way that if any sally was made from the front gate, the defenders would be surrounded and torn apart; of course that’d be after they were shot to pieces by catapult and archer fire. Even climbing down from the walls was not an option as the enemy had their own scouts moving all around the walls and Forson’s men would be seen quickly and the enemy would easily move their troops to intercept.

Even trying to distract the enemy with false movements wouldn't do much good, as Forson did not have enough troops to spare to make the feint convincing and attempt an actual assault. Especially not with the eyes the enemy had roaming about. He shook his head before he began moving once more, nodding to soldiers that saluted him as he walked by, giving a simple greeting to those who spoke to him. He just hoped he could figure out a way to save most of these soldiers, or at the very least a miracle could come down and save him and these people.
~~~
“Sir, sir we have just received news that the Fire King is marching here at the head of an army. They will be here by tomorrow morning.” The scout said as he ran up to the two men that sat atop their horses. Both had been observing the walls of the city of Turron, however with the scout running up to deliver the news it drew both of their attention away from them.

Duke Lukair was the first to speak up, a scowl crossing his features. “Is he now? So much for him hiding within his castle as you claimed, Aníbal.” The Noble said angrily as he turned his head to look at the other man. The man had his pipe in his mouth, his armor still polished to a beautiful shine. He turned his eyes to look at Lukair, who was dressed in similar armor, a somewhat ornate set of plate armor over chainmail. It was not as fanciful as the man who had the pipe in his mouth, but it still showed himself to be a noble.

The man patted his horse’s neck when it stirred some, the large warhorse stamping its front hoof into the dirt beneath it. He then let out a puff of smoke from the side of his mouth as he turned and looked to Lukair. “Now, señor Lukair, I never claimed he wouldn’t move. Only that it was improbable. This is hardly a crippling move to us by the young man.” He pulled on the reigns of his horse, the animal letting out a powerful snort as it turned and began walking. “Continue your work here, señor. I will take some soldados and meet the king not far from here. I will inform you if anything changes.” he then stopped the animal, turning to look at the Duke, “And I told you, you need to trust me. I will see to it that you emerge from this war victorious.”

~~~

The next morning

Siya rode atop the large warhorse that he’d probably only mounted a handful of times. The war horse carried him easily enough. The large animal had probably only been mounted a few times since Siya had taken the throne. Like the throne, Siya felt the animal was far too large for him. However, at the head of his army, he felt more like a King then ever before. Not to mention his anger that was driving his actions.

It had taken him approximately two days to reach the edges of the city limits, a ridge line was where he set up camp. It gave him the ability to see the city walls, as well as the army that surrounded it.

Siya looked down upon the fields with a deep scowl on his lips. Right then he wanted nothing more than to burn every last man standing down there laying siege to his city. It took everything he had not to unleash his fire down on them. Instead, he turned his horse and utter a growling order to his General and Protectors, “Prepare to take them by surprise. We will make a straight shot to the city gates. From there, we will cut down any who get close to those walls. We have to push back the siege, and destroy those weapons.”

As soon as he had the response he was waiting for, he directed his horse to the other side of the ridge and waited for the rest of his men to be ready for the attack. They would come out from behind the hill, charge the enemy and head directly toward the gates. Siya could only hope that the Lord of the city would be ready to assist them in any way possible.

~~~
Aníbal sat atop his horse, leaned forwards some to get a good look out ahead of him. He did not have his pipe in his mouth this time around, and on both sides of him were two women, mounted atop their own warhorses. One of the individuals was the woman he had sent to deliver the rebel’s message. The heavily armored woman had her helmet resting over the horn of the saddle and resting on the pommel.

On the other side of Aníbal sat another woman, her uncovered face riddled with various scars. Her armor consisted of a mixture between metal and leather, with chainmail integrated into the leather in most places except over the joints, though the entire torso was a single chainmail shirt. Her forearms and hands however were completely covered by metal bracers and gauntlets, with the fingertips ending in rounded points. Her shins and feet were covered in similar armor, with the front of the foot ending in a rounded point as well. The plates over her shins were shaped into wedges that faced outwards, contrary to usual greave designs. Her brown hair was cut very short, clearly cut in a way to keep it out of the way.

She glanced at the man next to her before back out towards the army that was camped not far away. The scouts had been keeping tabs on their movement and their size, and it was certainly a respectful force that the Fire King had brought with him. “Qué tienes en mente, hermano?” she asked, drumming her fingers on the front of the saddle as she watched out.

Aníbal sat there quietly for a moment, watching what they could see of the Fire King’s army at the moment. Then a smile came over him as he chuckled, sitting up in his saddle before glancing to her. “Oh, just how upset the Duke is going to be with me.” he said, choosing to stick to the Iverian tongue for now. He looked to the woman before to the more heavily armored one sitting next to him, the smile fading off of his face. “Natalia, Liliana, you two are going to take the read guard and cover our withdrawal. Hold them off and give us time to move things out.”

The short haired woman’s scarred face scrunched into a scowl, “Por qué estamos retrocediendo?”

Aníbal looked at her, “Because I ordered it, now Erlantz and Sendoa will be within the rear guard covering the city. Those in the city will sally forth the moment they see us withdrawing and they see the King’s forces moving forwards.” He pulled on the reins of his horse, turning it around as it walked off towards the innards of the camp. Many of the soldiers already had most of their equipment and things packed up and ready to move, including the trebuchets and catapults. Because they had no intention of storming the walls, they had not begun construction of any towers or rams so fortunately there would be no wasted material there. “Prep yourselves and get your soldados into position.”

The scarred woman watched him move away on his horse, pursing her lips in irritation before she looked back out ahead. The heavily armored woman looked over and chuckled softly, pulling on the reigns of her horse to direct it out to the side. “Come on Natalia, the goods news is we shall still see some combat ourselves. And you know full well brother is just making sure we’ll be set to truly engage them.”

Natalia just scoffed at the remark, grumbling to herself as she followed after Liliana, “Todavía es irritante...” she said, both women spurring their horses into a run to get themselves to where they needed to be quickly.

It had not been ignored by Dream the anger seeping out from the Fire King. She had stood by his side ever since, regaining her sense of duty and care. His fires were raging and tumultuous, filled with harsh heat. The source of such flames were the group known now as 'Nobles of Fire'. There intentions had been revealed through the invasion of many cities loyal to the crown, piling up deaths whether unnecessary or not. To a gentle yet fiery soul, it would be enough to stoke an inferno. They had declared the abdication of the Lord and if not done willingly, it shall be consummated by force. It was a clear declaration of insurrection to the current one who holds the throne of the Fire Nation.

As who she is, it is something she does not blame towards anyone or bear ill will. She is incapable of it and accepts the current situation as it is. People do things at their own discretion and she was in no position to ostracize them. This however does not mean she would not do what was asked of her especially when the emotions of her King is put into turbulent matters. She of course also have people and things which she deemed precious enough to incite certain degree of feelings. It is of course her notion to remove anything that irks her King. There is no question about that in any sense of the word. Therefore, the Lord had finally made his mind to advance on the front lines, himself. Of course, she shall accompany him to wherever it might be.

"As you wish." Dream said in complete acceptance of the order issued for them to march. Her eyes glanced at her fellow protector, Shiro Yukashima. "Mr. Yukashima, I will be depending on you once again." It was a fact that she is not a physical fighter. Adding to that, her magick would require a length time to initiate. It is why they would rather make a pair in terms of combat. They are able to harmonize their different styles into a cohesive one. But not only that, if she lacks in her duties of protecting the Fire King. She would rely on him to fill that gap. She then humbly bowed her head towards him and then went on her way to begin her preparations. It would be a long journey and she would need ample supplies to fuel her combat abilities.

When the arrangements are done, she met the others at front where she has her own personal steed as well. It was not different or unfamiliar for her. She had been given one and hers was a beautiful, slender-built pinto mare, a reddish brown coat with white socks and stockings, a cream mane and tail with light brown hooves. Approaching the horse, it recognized her instantly. It released itself from the hold of its keeper and trotted towards her. Those blue eyes gazed at her as she placed both of her hands at the side of its face. "I am sorry that we are unable to ride together for some time, Tamina." As if understanding her, Tamina nuzzled its nose to the side of her face. This made her smile which had been a rare sight nowadays.

Her hands reached for her mane where she noticed the presence of a lone eagle feather. It was something she had pinned on Tamina when the mare had been a gift to her. "You still have it." Tamina's keeper has finally approached her and bowed his head in respect. "Good day, Lady Dream. She would not allow it to be removed from her mane." Dream acknowledges the man with a nod. "Good day as well. Is that so?" Her eyes returned back to Tamina as she continued stroking its face with such affection. "I am glad you liked it. I am sorry that we will ride in such a situation." Her voice dropped a degree denoting her dislike for having Tamina marched headlong into a possible battle. But, this is how it is for her as a protector and for Tamina who is a protector's steed. In response, it simply responded with a pleasant bray, as if saying that it was fine. She nodded in gratitude and gazed at her steed's keeper. "Thank you for taking care of Tamina." The man smiled warmly at her. "It has been my honor and pleasure."

The Fire King finally arrived and so. Dream mounted Tamina with the help of its caretaker as she went to the side of her Lord. It was time for them to start their journey and she will do her best to be a worthy protector for her Lord.

Soon enough, they had reached their destination. They even had set up camp where they could see the city walls and the army threatening to tear it down. More than that, she could see the rage being kept inside her King. It was hold back with great restraints. These events were weighing heavily on the King which could only be added to the sadness still haunting inside him. She must erase those who cause turbulence to her Lord's heart and with her abilities she will drown them in the coldness of the water she possessed. The growling order given by the Fire King which held his fiery resolve and anger to those who desired for him to give up the throne. She echoed her affirmation of that order as she immediately went to the side of her Lord.

"Ma-- Siya." Dream called out to the King. She did not want him to plunge into this battle with just his rage alone. It would make him reckless and aggressive which could be taken advantage by those who want his reign to end. "I would not ask you to stave your actions towards those who irked you. But, do not make their desires come true so easily." Her hand reached slowly for his in an effort to calm him even just a bit. "You are not alone. Me and Mr. Yukashima will be by your side. We will be your sword and shield. Depend on us." Lightly patting his hand, she let it go and looked forward. Her ombre-colored eyes held a still seriousness much like a river so quiet, one would wonder what lies beneath its murky depths. There was subtle glow covering her skin. It seemed she is preparing her spells to be unleashed and she will do so once the order to commence attack is stated.

They will soon face the Mermaid on the battlefield and this one will bring the fury of the water with her.