Concordia: Part 2

Miami: Despair and Vision

The storm Taran had conjured up had traveled to South Beach, Florida. It was slowly dying down though. On the rooftop of a hotel by, sat Taran. He stood by the edge, looking down on the people who were being rained on. Taran had never felt this way in his life. He had always been known for his focus, and for how well he took things. Everything hitting him in one huge overwhelming wave of despair crushed him. He wished he didn't have to leave his brother and sister, but he couldn't bear being on that beach. Right now, he was trying his best to end the storm around him, but it proved to be difficult. There was a lot shuffling through his mind. First was Corissa deceit, then there was Tristan's death, then Elliot's, and lastly, were the magic abilities he gained from his brother. Whenever he tried to expel one problem, another jumped up at him.

"Why can't I just focus!" Taran yelled out as thunder crackled. He was getting frustrated now, which wasn't helping at all.

"Are you kidding me?" Taran heard a familiar female voice from behind him. He turned around wondering why and how someone else was up on the roof with him. As soon as he laid eyes on the woman, he made a look of confusion. "You clearly aren't the Taran Wolfsbane I remember."

"Cynthia? What are you..?" Taran began to notice that not a single drop of water managed to touch her. Taran was so confused that he almost forgot that he was angry. Why did this woman intrigue him so much? Even with his memories restored, he couldn't really tell who she was.

"Hey! Only Sean can call me that. I'm Cytheria to you." Cytheria said with a joking tone. Her full appearance changed into an even more beautiful form. Taran froze there as he looked at the goddess. She walked over to him, closing the distance between them and poked him in the center of his forehead. "What's your problem!? First you don't recognize me, and now your acting all depressed and speechless... It's not attractive." Cytheria scolded, but she was all but serious.

"I- I apologize..." Taran said as he found it difficult to keep his mind off of everything that plagued his mind. "Why are you he-" Taran was interrupted.

"Shh! You need to stop asking questions." Cytheria said, being a little annoyed in Taran's behavior at the moment. "Do you remember what I gave you? The gift from when you were itty bitty." Cytheria asked. Taran thoguth to himself for a second before nodding.

"Yeah, I remember, but what does that have to do with what just happened, or what's been happening for the past five years? Don't even allow me to bring up the death of my brothers and parents." Taran argued back, but he didn't allow his voice to raise toward the goddess. He winced as the goddess poked him on the forehead again.

"I told you, no more questions Taran? Now... Halikair granted you Despair, the poisonous fate that deeply inflicts princes of the royal family. He has claimed the souls of several by making them fall into despair... until they eventually end their lives. I don't know why, but Halikair likes doing this to a single brother, and not many get through this despair he inflicts." Cytheria said in the first serious tone Taran had ever heard. A smile soon broke from he seriousness though. "That's why when that meanie gave you that gift, I gave you..." Cytheria twirled her finger around Taran's face before going for another poke. Taran instinctively blinked, but Cytheria didn't touch him. She just kept her finger in front of his face. "Vision... So use it! I don't like getting gifts, only to find out people aren't going to use them!" Cytheria said. Taran listened, but he didn't really understand how to use this gift.

"But ho-"

"No questions" Cytheria interrupted. Taran made a confused look as he stared down trying to figure it out. "Aw, you're so cute when you think hard." Cytheria said before giggling and turning from Taran and walking away.

"Wait! Tell me! How do I..." Taran stopped himself this time. Cytheria turned halfway, and smiled at him from the corner of her eye.

"I'm not allowed to answer that... You have the answer, and I expect you to find it. I wouldn't expect any less of neither Taran Wolfsbane or Sean Walker." Cytheria said before rose petals seemed to appear out of thin air and envelope the beauty before vanishing with her. Taran sighed before taking a seat on the wet rooftop. The rain had gotten heavier with Cytheria's departure. He crossed his legs and then set his hands over his knees. He shut his eyes before taking in a breath. Taran had been known to meditate frequently. Him attempting it at such a stressful time was something he wouldn't have thought of doing, but he needed to assess everything with a different method. He had to overcome his despair, no matter how impossible he thought it would be.

Vision...


Concordia: Best Friend

Pyrus swung his blade at the air after he heard Kiel speak. Flamed burned anything away that hung on the castle walls. Pyrus had a lot of pride, and love to boast. He didn't care whether or not Kiel was intentionally riling him up or not, but he didn't enjoy it. PYrus jumped back and readied his weapon. "Allow me to refresh your memory then!" Pyrus built up flames into his sword before slashing it down at the ground and sending a rush of flames at Kiel.

Sorcha looked up when a hand pressed on her shoulder and energy warmed her. She saw Keegan there and smiled softly at him, patting his hand and listening to him before he walked off. She was soon joined by another man, this time Sir Aldrich. She sat on one of the large boulders he gestured towards, drawing her knees up and hugging them tight to her chest. She wondered what sort of entertainment this man could provide her and blinked when he pulled out a deck of cards. She didn’t know what they were or what their purpose was, but she definitely intrigued. Leaning forward, she watches as he fans out the cards and then asks her to pick one of them. Blinking again, she reaches forth a dainty finger and thumb, plucks one of the cards then looks at it, flicking her gaze to him. “Now what? Do I tell you what it says? Also, tell me about your mother. She is human, correct?”

Corissa hurried after Scythe, not wanting to be alone with these people. Well, she knew that to be a lie; for the reason for her not wanting to be here was quite simple: when Taran returns, she doesn’t want to be around to face him (but at the same time, she did). Taking Scythe’s arm, she pulls up beside him. “I am coming with you—Devin, but there’s no telling how far away we are. Shouldn’t we see if one of the Royals can teleport us?”

Miami: There will be no rabbits coming out of these hats.

Aldrich's eyes widened as Sorcha mentioned his mother, but went "My mother...Of course she was human. As human as you or I. What an odd question to ask, Milady." He said, brushing her comments aside, "Just memorize the card and slip it back into the deck." He said, allowing her to slip it in, "Why are you so interested in me, Milady? I am hardly a thing of interest. Now. Concentrate on your card." As she concentrated, he pulled a card that wasn't hers, "Is this your card?"

Keegan looked up as Scythe and Corissa began to walk away. He stood up and jingled the keys, "Teleporting would use up energy we're going to need for getting to Markell. But I can drive you back to wherever you need to be. Just point me in the right direction. Unless you want to drive yourselves." He said, offering up the keys.

----------------------------

Concordia: Fireproof and Ready to go.

Kiel didn't even move as the fire neared him. It hit him full on but bounced off his scales, "Pyrus, time and time again you hit me with fireballs, and time and time again the fire just rolls off. Does Dragon-Kin mean nothing to you? Besides, the chances of either of landing a solid hit with either you penetrating my armor or me actually inflicting damage on you is slimmer than none. I grow tired of our draws." He said, stretching and letting out a yawn. It was true the their bouts were entertaining on occasion, but there was truly no challenge for either of them.

She smirked at him, amused that he didn't want to speak about himself. Why should she not be curious about him? She'd only met him once before but that was such a long time ago. As he pulled the card and asked if it was hers, Sorcha shakes her head. "No. It is not. I'm curious because you came out of no where. It is only fitting that I know the people I travel with. Now, what I meant by my question was: was your mother Concordian or an Earthling? She must be not be Concordian, because of these tricks she has shown you and my brother's right, your accent is very much like Masaharu's and Saige's." She let her legs stretch out in front of her and cross at the ankles. She continued leaning forward, hands tucked together in her lap.

Corissa turned, hearing Keegan's voice. She swallowed, hard. The siblings made her nervous for some reason. Perhaps, she was afraid of being left behind or worse, killed when Concordia was taken back by them. When he offered to give them a ride, she took a deep breath and walked forward, dragging Scythe along with her. "I'd rather ride than walk."

Miami: Off my game...or am I?

Aldrich grunted, "Perhaps I have said too much? Yes, my mother was indeed of Earth decent. I know not how she and my father met. I simply know that I am what is called a half-breed. Verse Dweller." When she told him that it wasn't her card, he let a puzzled look on his face, "I must be off my game a little. Usually I would have pegged it. I believe there is something in your hair. Let me just..." He reached up and plucked the card from her hair, showing it to her, "Mayhap this is your card, Milady?" He said, showing her her card. He smirked a little, "None of our Concordian magic required. Simply the use of sleight of hand and human ingenuity." He looked past her for a moment at the sand, then up at the sky, "Darkness approaches. And you caught out in the cold with nothing but a dress. You may have my duster, my liege, should you require it." He said, as his eyes returned to her face.

Keegan raised an eyebrow as the got into the car, "It will take a while for us to get back to where we picked you all up. I assume Taran's manor is somewhere nearby, as is your equipment?" He asked, turning the van on. It had taken a hell of a beating in the firefight. The windshield had at least three holes in it and the passenger window was smashed completely. He looked through a few CD's and held them up. There were a few older bands and he asked, "Anyone got any favorites?" with a rather sarcastic flick to his tone.

She listened with half interest as he spoke if his lineage. He was half Concordian, half Earthling. How had his parents met, she wondered. Well, now was not the time to discuss it, for after all, he didn't know how his parents met or so he said. The two must have been in love though. Sighing inward, she smiles softly, watching him and pondering upon love. What was love anyway? She thought she'd been falling for Masaharu, but turns out, she harbors no such feelings towards him. He seemed so... distracted most of the time and she couldn't blame him for not being caught up in the mission as the others were.

Her thoughts shattered by Aldrich's voice, the sound of it pleasant to her ears as it pulled her back to reality. Looking into his handsome face, her eyes widen in amusement as he pulls the card from out of her hair. Looking down at the card in awe, then back to his face, she giggles softly and touches the cards in his hands. "What a... wonderful trick, Sir Aldrich!" When he offered her his duster, she felt herself blush a bit, she was beginning to shiver, but was it because of the change in temperature or was it-- something else entirely? One could only assume either of the two reasons. Nodding to him, she rubs her arms, her voice quite soft. "That would be quite nice."

Corissa climbed in the backseat, happy to give the men the two front seats. She smirked when Keegan asked if they had favorites, she didn't think Devin would, but remained quite in the back. Her thoughts, as usual, were on Taran.

Miami: A Post Fueled by an AMP.

Aldrich pulled the duster off his shoulders, sliding his arms out of the sleeves. Long bandages intertwines across his back and shoulders, just visible under his shirt. With a shrug, the bandages disappeared under the cloth, though he said nothing about the, before helping her into the duster, "Not bad. Not bad at all, Milady," He said with a smile, absentmindedly shuffling the cards in his hands. It was almost second nature to him, and often times he didn't even notice he was doing it. With a few strokes of his hands, he passed the cards from hand to hand, each spraying in a singular stream from fingertips to palm as they rose and fell in a perfect arc, "What of beautiful Concordia? It has been ages since I was embraced by her sun or allowed to roam upon her grassy fields. Does she still hold the beauty of old, or has the League drained her of the life she once held?" he asked. It had been some time since he had laid eyes on his true homeland.

She snuggled deep in the folds of his duster, pulling it tight around her. Her shivering hadn't stopped, but it was easier to hide it underneath the duster. Until she figured out the cause for the shivering, there was no need to let it be known. She had noticed the bandages and would have asked about except he started talking about Concordia, of it's beauty and how it-- once use to be. Tears threatened as they stung the corners of her eyes; Sorcha managed to hold them back. Her voice was low and soft, but audible for his ears only, "Concordia... is nothing but ruins right now. The Goddess, to show her unhappiness, blanketed it in a sheet of ice, freezing nearly everything besides the castle where... where I was kept captive for five long years. I think Valius, the new King of Concordia but not for much longer, planned on having me wed him which is what pushed me to escape. They have another castle being built behind our castle and plan on destroying ours. I cannot allow this to happen; we must somehow return to Concordia before it does happen."

She'd dropped her gaze from his face to look down at the ground, the tears having won the battle as they dropped to the sand. She hadn't realized they were there, only stopping between words to sniffle and gaze at anything but him. "My brothers and I must return as soon as possible. I wish that Taran would return."

Miami, Favorites?

Scythe shrugged as Keegan offered them a ride. He didn't know how to drive, but the rather long walk wasn't looking to pleasant either, so when Aliana accepted the offer for a ride, he was along for the trip. He was about to sit in the back with Aliana but she seemed to want him to sit in the front. He scowled a bit, but just put his scythe next to her in the back and sat down in the front, not bothering to fasten the seat belt.

Well this was an awkward sight. One of the Princes of Concordia, sitting next and helping to one of the league of 12, especially one who had killed one of his brothers personally. When he asked if they had any favorites Scythe just gave him a confused look and examined what Keegan was holding. "Favorites? What are these, some kind of throwing weapon? I am unsure on why or how I would have a favorite of your weapons, or why you would even ask. They look very similar. Is there some special power in each or something?"

Keegan was trying to be nice, and Scythe did notice that. After all taking on the persona of Will, he couldn't be a total dick all the time. He tried to return the gesture of being friendly but it wasn't exactly his strong point that was pretty apparent. Throw in the fact he had no fucking clue what Keegan was talking about, or what the strange objects he was holding were, and you get the reaction he had.

Miami: Self-Control

'He killed your brother!'

'You need all the help you can get.'

'He'll kill you before you can blink!'

'If he wanted you dead, he wouldn't be sitting in a car with you right now, would he?'

'He's not even wearing his seatbelt. Speed up, swerve, crash. He'll fly right out the god damned windshield.'

'You could get hurt yourself, and what would Sorcha say? She 'ordered' you not to kill him, remember?'

'Orders be fucking damned! He is a murdering, yellow son of an ass sucking dog!'

'....This is true. Regardless, you need his help, at LEAST until you get to Australia. We can finish this argument there.'

Keegan didn't even realize how hard he was gripping the steering wheel or the CD's in his hand. His left eye twitched as Scythe began speaking of weaponry and directing it toward the CD's. He tossed the CD's back into the center console and said, "Nevermind, it was a joke. They're what we call CD's, and they contain music." He said before going silent. He was trying to put all of his attention on the road, trying to ignore the fact that one of his brother's killers was sitting in the passenger seat with a perfectly unbuckled belt and he could easily get enough speed to kill the son of a b-. 'Sage, Keegan. If you're going to get the hell out of this war alive, you need to sage.'

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Miami: Good to Meet You


Aldrich was quiet for a moment, until she began to cry, "Milady. Please, there is no need to despair. You shall triumph. The League is not what it once was. Concordia shall be given new life and you shall be at the seat of a new era. As for returning to Concordia…I may have your problem solved…"

Realizing she was crying and making a fool out of herself, Sorcha quickly wipes them away using the sleeves of his duster. She listened to him as he spoke of triumph and not despairing over the entire matter. How could she not? Concordia was counting on them to return and bring it back to the way it had been before. Hugging her knees to her chest again, she rests her chin on the caps and listens to him speak, the last bit of his words making her perk up a little, intrigued. “How might you have my problem solved, Sir Aldrich?”

Aldrich bit his lip for a moment, “Well, my father…and the Duke…they gave me something when I was young to allow me to traverse between the worlds of my own accord. It is a tasking process, but it can definitely be done.” He said, removing his shirt and slowly undoing the bandages. As the last of them came off, pale white scars were revealed, etched into the skin by a stoic hand and a sharp blade, were Concordian symbols. Runes, almost, “Made so that I could never lose them. It as a branding of my Concordian blood.”

Her eyes widened even more when she saw the tattoos of Concordian runes marked all over his skin. Leaning forward, she touches one of the markings, letting her fingers brush across it slowly. “These allow you to travel between the two worlds whenever you want and wherever you want? That is quite a gift to receive. I am sure the Goddess Concordia bestowed it upon you.”

Aldrich laughed as he began to wind the bandages back on, “Milady, unless dear Concordia came to me as I slept and butchered me without waking me from my slumber, I am not so sure it was her who did the bestowing.” As he finished, he pulled his shirt back on over the bandages and stretched a little, “But do not get me wrong. The Duke was a kind man. Had you ever met him? He was a close friend of your father’s, but I would not know of your relations with him.”

She leaned back, quite mesmerized by what he’d shown her. It took a moment before his question registered. With a nod of her head, she smiles. “Yes. I knew him. We all did. The Duke was like a… an Uncle to us. He gave us gifts all the time and his son, Sebastian, came with him on his visits. It was rumored he and I were betrothed, which was not true.” She laughed, the sound closely related to a tiny bell. “It was most humorous, indeed, for he was actually affianced to another, one of my mother’s Lady’s-in-waiting. Besides, he was almost 15 years old than I am. He was murdered right along with the Duke. I miss them both terribly.” Tilting her head at him, then.. Her eyes skim over his face and hair, “In fact, you almost resemble them, except for the color of your hair.”

Aldrich was nodding as Sorcha spoke of the Duke fondly; at least until her final remark, “Indeed? Both of them were better men than I, Milady, and were that I could have replaced them in death would be as easy as a snap of my fingers.” He said, stoically, “Sebastian was like an older brother to me when I was growing up. He would have been thirty-three to the year within two months.” He said with a laugh, though it slowly died to something of a sigh.

Her gray eyes flicked upward into his curiously. “You are only twenty-two. You seem much older than you really are; just the way you act and speak.” Fiddling with a piece of her hair, continues on, “You must miss them as well. After all, you were in their service as a knight.”

Aldrich’s eyes avoided Sorcha’s as she spoke of missing the Duke and his family, “Tragedy can age a boy into a man very quickly, Milady. And in the Duke’s house, you were taught respect with a kind, but firm, hand. I cannot say that I do not miss them, for it would be a lie spoken with cursed breath, but sitting and dwelling on their deaths would only insult them. Instead, I mean to bring justice to the ones who would commit such acts against my family. I mean to make that bastard Valius pay for what he did. But as long as his empire crumbles and the rightful heirs are put on the throne, my life, and death if need be, will be noble in sacrifice.” He was silent for a moment before he looked back up at her, “And what of yourself? You seem wise for your years as well.”

“Hmm, I feel the same way. Valius must pay for what he has done. I do not care if I die in fighting for Concordia, for I will fight against him whether or not my brothers allow it. I have ways of fighting against our enemy and knowing certain things my brothers do not. I can get us into the castle without being detected; even the new one for I have seen the blueprints.” She smiles, quite proud of herself for having tip-toed throughout the castle without being detected… sometimes. Other times, she’d been caught and gone without food for days. “In answer to your question, I am eighteen. I was thirteen when this whole thing started and being kept in a prison cell for that long period of time can make one mature faster than others.”

Aldrich nodded, “I would imagine. However, we should not dwell on the so distant future or the long left behind past. Things will go as they go and if the Gods place their faiths in us and bestow us with their blessings then maybe we have a fighting chance in this war. If not…we take as many of the bastards we can with us and hope that others can stand up to them in our stead.” His face was devoid of emotion, but his eyes were locked on hers. He was silent for a moment before he smirked again, “You’re shivering. Is the duster not warm enough for you, Milady? I can build a fire if you’d like.”

She smiled, nodding. “Yes! The Gods will bless us, for sure; I just know it for I feel Concordia with me all the time; even now. I can feel she is pleased that I have my brothers and only one more remains. I hope we can get to him before Vann does. Taran needs to hurry back!” Her excitement died down just a bit at his words. She’d forgotten about her shivering and his words brought back the realization and the curiosity as to why she was shivering. This is quite an odd sort of thing for her; she never shivered! Looking at him, she shakes her head. “No. I do not need a fire. The duster is quite enough for me. I do not know why I shiver, to be honest.”

Aldrich gave her a perplexed look, “I don’t suppose you’ve sampled a concoction of this world called coffee, have you?” He asked, semi-serious, “Wonderful creation, but completely trashes the nerves. Sometimes it can give the jitters.” He said. As he spoke, he took a step toward her and hunkered down in the sand, his arms resting on his knees. He had been standing throughout the conversation, and now he was more or less on level with her, though she sat just a few inches taller than him. He was now looking up into her face, and he placed a hand to her forehead checking for a temperature, “You do not feel fevered. Do you feel ill in any way, Milady? I can fetch medicine quite quickly if necessary.”

“Coffee..? No.” She gave him a confused look. What was this world of coffee he spoke of? Silly man, must be making things up! She was even more confused when he ‘hunkered’ down in front of her and reached forth a hand to touch her forehead. During this entire process, Sorcha had begun to shiver just a little more and she recognized these shivers to now be trembles. They didn’t start until—until this man came along and they steadily grew worse when he stepped closer. Was she afraid of him? No, she wouldn’t be sitting her with him if she were? Then.. why? Why the trembles? Hm, she must investigate into this little matter and do her best to control the trembles. Looking at him, she shakes her head, “I—no. I feel fine. No medicine needed, but I think a nice walk will help.” Standing up, her foot slips on the rock beneath, causing her to fall backward.

Aldrich noticed the shivers become worse as he reached out to her. Was she afraid of him? He drew his hand away as she began to stand up, but as she slipped, he practically disappeared as he caught her with blinding speed, “A walk? Mayhap we should concentrate on standing up.” He teased. He righted her and then noticed that his hand was on her shoulder and the middle of her back. He drew his hands back hastily with a blush and muttered, “Terribly sorry, Milady. I meant no offense.”

As she was caught and held up by Aldrich, she looked a bit stunned. How had she become so clumsy as of late? This was beginning to annoy her! Shaking her head, she smiled at Sir Aldrich, and rested a hand on his arm. “No need to apologize. You saved me from chance of bumping my head against something and falling into a deep sleep.” Peering up at him, she smirks. “There is something I request of you, Sir Aldrich. I ask that you drop all formality. The others will as well if they have not already. Until this is all settled, nobody is to refer to me as ‘Her Highness’ or ‘Milady’ or anything of the like. I will see to it that my brothers are aware of this as well. No need for formality during this mission. We are all equals (with myself, of course, still having final say). Will you do that for me?” She smiles some more, her grays glittering happily. “Let us go for that walk, shall we?” She didn’t give him time to respond… not like he had a choice. “Call me Sorcha.”

Aldrich was taken aback by Sorcha’s renouncing of formality. He smirked however at this and nodded, “Yes, Mil-” He caught himself and smirked, “Will Lady Sorcha do? Because if I must become so informal as to call you by name alone, then you need not call me by ‘Sir’,” He nodded at her suggestion of taking a walk and half-made a motion to hold his hand out for her, but withdrew, his fingers curling with un-sureness. He cleared his throat in an attempt to draw her attention away from his clumsy offering and said instead, “You’ve got a pretty smile you know. It is a shame that such a face is troubled with such unbecoming frowns.”

She saw the expression on his face and the unsurness, which made her giggle softly and reach out to loop her arm through his. “You are a silly man, you know, Sir Aldrich. If you are to call me Lady Sorcha, then I must insist on calling you Sir Aldrich, just to be fair. We must then call everybody else Lady and Sir, perhaps I should call you Lord? Hm...” She was teasing him and felt quite happy, somehow knowing he didn’t mind. As they began to walk, she heard his compliment and blushed a deep red. “Thank you.” Her words were shy. “You should smile more as well, your eyes light up when you do.”

Though he was smirking on the outside, her words struck a deep chord inside. His expression faltered for only a second at the mention of “Lord”, but he shook it off, “I aim to please. Sorcha it is then.” When she commented on his own smile, he laughed a little, “If it will make you happy, I can walk around with a grin all the time.” He said, putting on a goofy grin and walking with her for a few moments before he finally broke out laughing, which slowly died down to something of a tired sigh. The expression on his face was nostalgic, but this expression, too, quickly faded.

She laughed with him at this goofy grin, thinking in the far reaches of her mind that it seemed forever since she’d laughed like this. She’d mostly carried a frown for the entire journey and then this… stranger comes out of nowhere and makes her laugh silly! She continued smiling though after the laughter died away and they continued walking down the beach. This world seemed so.. strange to her. It was so like Concordia, but then again… it wasn’t. The beaches were different of course, the sand an unhealthy color compared to home. With a soft sigh, she looks around and spots Masharu and Saige, they were both watching her, their gazes never leaving her form. Masaharu did not look pleased, but she didn’t care at all. She had noticed her brother drive off with Corissa and Scythe to retrieve Scythe’s belongings. No telling how long it would take them. She again wished Taran would hurry up. She needed to find Markell. One person was missing in her observation of the beach: Reicha. Sorcha had no doubt Reicha was close by, watching them as well. Looking back to her escort, she smiles up at him. “Do you like Earth better or Concordia?”

At this question, Aldrich had to think. He was silent for a long moment before he finally answered her, “I have lived most of my life here on Earth. Taking that into account, I would say that I enjoy Concordia much more. There is an openness that Concordia embodies that does not translate well to this sister world. There are places that are similar, such as the countryside’s, but even they are nowhere near Concordian beauty. And, if I may be so bold, the girls are prettier in Concordia.” He smiled as he said this last bit, but his face regained his composure, “This world feels so…so enclosed. So claustrophobic compared to Concordia. Towers that extend to the heavens, noises almost constantly, the hostility of people. I long for the peace of the Concordia that once was and, with any luck, will be again.”

From what she had seen of this world, Sorcha had to agree with Aldrich: Concordia was much more beautiful with not as much noise and not as many buildings. She had seen many people as well, with crying babes in small rolling carriages, scary machines they called vehicles, and the thing that carried them across the ocean to Ireland. All these things frightened, but intrigued her. She wouldn’t want to live here, though. As he made his remark about the girls in Concordia, Sorcha found herself blushing once again and looking away, giggling softly. “I have noticed some strange women walking upon this world. The women wear pants, which is odd to me.” Opening up the duster, she gazes down at herself. Her white dress was torn at the edges, dirty and no longer recognizable. “I wish I could find some place to purchase new clothing and bathe myself. I have not had the time; it seems we are always in a hurry somewhere.”

Aldrich raised an eyebrow. Her dress was in a state of disrepair and it didn’t seem to fit her, “Well, I can grant you one of those wishes.” He said, stopping and hunkering down in the sand, “Don’t take this the wrong way, but I can get us here and back a lot quicker if you humor me and climb aboard.” He held his hand behind him with the fingers interlocked, allowing her to step up onto his shoulders, “I can piggyback you to the nearest department store and we can…ascertain the clothing.” He said.

Her brows rose curiously as he made the same hunkering formation but locked his fingers together behind his back. She stepped behind him, moving slowly and feeling rather amused. Should she humor him and ‘climb aboard’? What if her brothers returned to find her gone? They would be terribly upset. But then again, who knew how far they were and when they’d return. Shrugging, she climbs onto his shoulders, holding tight but being careful not to choke him. Out of the corner of one eye, she saw Masaharu and Saige stand up, panic in their eyes. They started walking over in their directions. “It appears… my friends want to come along as well, but I think it best that they stay in case the others return. Let us hurry and be on our way so we return as quickly as possible.”

Aldrich nodded, “Yes, even I cannot carry three people at a time.” As he stood up, he was surprised by how surprisingly light Sorcha was. Before he could move, however, and hand gripped his wrist.

“ ‘Milady’, if not for the fact that I were here, this apparently charming stranger could have carried you off with no resistance. You’re not thinking clearly.” Reicha’s voice muttered from behind them, bracing the young man.

“What is this?!” Aldrich asked in surprise as Reicha faded into view.

“You did not think I would allow you to waltz in here and make off with the Princess completely unguarded, did you?” Reicha asked, her voice clearly belittling, “Now. You have three options. Option 1: I tear your arm off and beat you to death with it. Option 2: I go with you to make sure you don’t pull something. Option 3: You set the Princess down, and I don’t kill you.”

Sorcha smiled as Reicha appeared. Looking down at the Bounty Hunter from her perch, the Princess giggles softly. “Reicha, he is only taking me find better clothing. My dress is too ragged and… I am shivering. The dress must be making me cold.” Giving a firm nod, she continues, “You may come with… that’s if.. it is alright with Aldrich.”

Reicha crossed her arms, “So he says, Princess, so he says. Can your trusty steed carry two riders?” She asked, causing Aldrich to raise and eyebrow.

Aldrich shrugged a little, “I can carry two people, yes. With some difficulty, but it is still possible.” He said and Reicha shrugged.

“Then so be it. By the way, I might have accidentally borrowed some cash from your brother’s wallet, Sorcha, remind me to pay him back later.” She said with a sly smirk, waving a couple fifties at them. With Reicha in his arms bridal style and Sorcha on his shoulders piggyback, Aldrich looked somewhat ridiculous, and felt the weight of the two women. He took a deep breath and took off at a sprint, hurrying to get to the department store. When they got there, Reicha practically jumped out of his arms on her own, but he hunkered down to allow Sorcha to step off, “Here we are.”

She giggles as Aldrich picks up the Bounty Hunter. He must feel pretty awkward about carrying the two of them. When he took off in a sprint, she held onto him even tighter, but not so tight he couldn’t function. They soon arrived at their destination and Sorcha found herself climbing down from his shoulders. Sliding an arm through his, she looks at the building as it loomed over them. It had glass doors that slid right open when people walked up to it. “What sort of magic is this that doors open and close when one walks up to it?” She muttered softly, keeping hold of Aldrich’s arm.

As Sorcha asked about the doors, Reicha had already cloaked herself and was experimenting with the doors herself. Waving a hand in front of them, nothing happened. Someone would walk by her and the doors would open. She uncloaked herself and waved a hand in front if the door and it opened. She cloaked, and the doors closed. She repeated this procedure for a few minutes before concluding that the door has some sort of protected eye somewhere, and when someone would walk up to it, it opened. She shared her conclusion with Sorcha and Aldrich and Aldrich simply laughed, “In many ways, Concordia is quite far behind Earth in it’s technology. No magic required. No eyes…or at least not the kind you’re used to. You see, and electronic machine eye is able to “see” motion and opens when it is detected. Come on, the clothes are on the inside.” He said, walking confidently through the doors with Sorcha as Reicha followed tentatively behind.

Sorcha watched with interest as Reicha experimented with the doors. She cloaked, uncloaked, and recloaked during the experimentation before turning to explain her findings with Sorcha and Aldrich. Sorcha gave a little giggle and listened to Aldrich explain about Earth’s advanced technology. It was one thing Earth had over Concordia, but could it be the reason for Earth’s demise of losing its attractive appearance? As they entered the building, Sorcha forgot about her wonderings and let Aldrich lead them inside. She was immediately greeted by a woman behind some counter and a machine that beeped as clothes were drifted across it then folded neatly into bags. All around her were clothes hanging and folded, there was an area with shoes and another with glass casing’s that held jewelry. Clutching Aldrich’s arm, her eyes wide with curiosity, she says, “This place is… wonderful! What do we do now? Do we wait for a tailor to show and begin fitting us for clothing?”

Reicha walked behind the two, hissing at things as they reared up. So many things she didn’t recognize. Were they hostile? Were they even alive? She knew the basics of human technology but this…”mall” was something entirely foreign to her.

Aldrich raised an eyebrow as he looked at Sorcha and the cloaked bounty hunter, “Hmm… usually we just compare tags. But I know someone who can help us, come on.” He went over to a woman who was putting clothing on a rack, “Janey! Long time no see!”

The woman called Janey, turned her blond head to see who called her name. Her eyes lit up with recognition and she came bounding forth with arms opened wide. They wrapped around Aldrich in a tight hug as she exclaimed, “Aldi! It’s been so long since I’ve seen you! Where have you been?”

Sorcha, unlatched from Aldrich’s arm, stood off to the side with wide eyes. This woman must be a friend of his to have so boldly hugged him.

Aldrich laughed, “I’ve been around, doing a little of this and that. I’d like you to meet some friends of mine. This is Sorcha, and this strange young lady is Reicha. They’re from…uh…some third world country whose name I can’t pronounce. Anyway, I was kinda hoping you could show them the ropes. Especially since…I sorta…can’t.” He said, nervously.

Reicha was eyeing this new woman with untrusting eyes. She trusted Aldrich and his friend about as far as she could throw them. So instead she crossed her arms and gave the woman a distrustful glare.

Jane looked to Aldrich’s friends, grinning. “Of course I will help them!” Reaching forward, she gently takes Sorcha’s hand and begins to do the same with Reicha but stopped at the look the woman gave her. Instead, she said, “Just follow me and I will do what I do best! Aldi, you can sit over there and wait.” She pointed over to a couple of chairs by the door then walked away, with the women in tow.

Aldrich nodded and took a seat, but not before patting Sorcha on the shoulder, “Jane is a good friend of mine, alright? She’ll take care of both of you.” He said. Reicha gave him a suspicious look but followed behind the other two women. She would be cautious, but she would at least try to enjoy herself if possible. She wondered how protective this new clothing was as compared to her hard leather armor.

Jane had thought the two women looked quite strange when she glanced at them. The one with the cautious attitude was the most strange in her leather suit. The girl in Aldrich’s duster wasn’t as strange, but she wasn’t very far off. She was quiet most of the time, but very inquisitive, asking questions about certain material and how it was made. Jane, after requesting Sorcha to remove the duster and seeing what size she might need, picked out a variety of undergarments, shirts, pants, and skirts, although, she thought the girl would be better off wearing pants anyway. Once she was finished with gathering clothes for Sorcha, Jane helped Reicha, being careful to not disturb the young woman. Then, when Reicha had picked out some clothing, Jane led them to the dressing rooms, giving them each their own room.

As Reicha looked over the clothing the woman had assisted her in picking out, she gave the woman a glance, “How well will this protect against bullets? Or blades? Will this cloth burst into flames should it be brushed by fire?” She asked. Sure they looked okay, but practicality was a bounty hunter’s game. She had no time to play dress up if it wasn’t going to help her in a fight.

Jane stared at Reicha as she asked about the durable state of the clothing. She wondered at first if the young woman were joking but remembered the two girls were from another country. They both didn’t look that old, in fact, they still looked as if they were in their teens. What was Aldi doing with a couple of teenage girls? They may be foreign exchange students… or something. “Well, no… the clothes are not fashioned that way. Although, we do have black leather that can protect the skin better than these. Let me show them to you.” Interested, Sorcha follows them as well.

As they inspected the black leather, Reicha nodded, “I see. Yes, this seems much more durable than that other clothing. This will protect from blades, yes?” She asked, pinching the material between two fingers and rubbing. If she could manage to fit her leather armor over it or under it, it would work wonderfully.

Smiling at the fact she finally pleased Reicha, she starts to nod but realizes what the young woman had asked. Blades? What sort of country were these girls from! Shaking her head mentally, she continues to smile and actually nods, “Yes. I suppose they would. Motorcyclists wear these and they have been known to protect from scraps or anything… sharp. Now, let’s return to the dressing room so you can try on the leather and Sorcha can try on-“

“No. I want to try one of these.”

Her eyes popping wide, Jane blinks then shrugs. “If that is what you want, then that’s fine by me!” Smiling, she helps Sorcha and Reicha pick out some black leather and then leads back to the dressing rooms.

Reicha smirked as Sorcha protested and said she wanted to try on the more protective clothing. She patted Sorcha on the head, “Finally using your brain, eh Princess?” She said with a little bit of a smirk. She followed the two with her clothes back to the dressing rooms. Perplexed, she wondered why she must be restricted to this closet to change clothes.

Sorcha allowed Jane to enter the dressing room with her. These clothes were new to her and she wasn’t sure how to put them on. They rummaged through the clothing, trying on different things until eventually, they settled on something that was sure to make people question her decision; by people, she meant her brothers, Aldrich, Reicha, and the others.

Reicha was strutting her stuff in front of a mirror and admiring the way she looked when Sorcha came out of the dressing room. She quickly straightened herself up with a blush, and crossed her arms, her face resuming her stern look of distrust.

Jane followed Sorcha out with a big grin. She was quite pleased with Sorcha’s outfit and wasn’t afraid to show it. As Sorcha walked out, she’d noticed Reicha glancing in the mirror and checking herself out, then blushed and put back on her serious look. Grinning from ear to ear, Sorcha says to her. “Reicha, you look beautiful! No need to hide your smile; in fact, I order you to smile more often.” She giggles softly, then turns to the mirror to look at herself.

She had changed into a pair of black, leather pants that showed off her long, shapely legs. A Victorian styled corset, laced up the back but had laces criss-crossing up the front. A strap went around the back of her neck, halter top fashion, and then dipped down low, but over her bust line and showed quite a bit of her milky white flesh. On her arms, she wore leather gloves that extended from her fingers and an inch passed her elbows. Jane had pulled her red hair back into a ponytail, accenting her high cheekbones. Around her waist, was a silver chained belt and on her feet, she wore high heeled boots that made her seem taller. The entire fit her snugly and showed off her slim form.

“You both look amazing! You will certainly have guys turning their heads… twice. Let’s go back to your escort and get these paid for. Oh! Sorcha, don’t forget the leather jacket. You will need it when you get cold.” Jane handed her the leather jacket then, holding the duster, walked them back to the front where Aldrich was waiting patiently.

Reicha put on a snarky frown when Sorcha ordered her to smile more. Despite the girl’s readiness to hand out orders, Reicha was by no means obligated to follow them. Besides. There was hardly anything to smile about anymore. She flexed her neck and felt the satisfying crack of her bones.

Aldrich couldn’t help but let his jaw drop a little as Sorcha came out, trailed by Reicha. Both girls looked pretty damn hot, though he would never say as much to either of their faces. As he jogged over to them at the counter, he smirked, “And the girl can work wonders! Damn Jane, they look fitted and ready to go. How much is all this going to cost?”

Sorcha felt herself blush when she saw Aldrich. She was going to have to get used to this new style of clothing. She wondered how her brothers would react…

Jane looked at Aldrich with a big grin. “Don’t they look good? And it only costs you $334.50.”

Before Aldrich could even fish out his wallet, Reicha had slapped a wad of cash down on the counter, “Keep whatever. We won’t have much need of it for much longer.” She said, checking out the sharpness of her nails. The wad of cash was somewhere in the neighborhood of $421, but Reicha hadn’t even bothered counting. Aldrich raised an eyebrow but didn’t say anything.

Jane shrugged, keeping the change. “Well, Aldi, I hope you don’t become too much of a stranger. Keep in touch. I must tend to other customers now. Bye!” She waved to them and hurried off to assist other customers.

Sorcha takes hold of the duster and hands it back to Aldrich. “I believe you can have this back.” She smiles, pulling her new leather jacket on. “Shall we head back now?” She chose to ignore the fact Reicha had stolen from her brother; not like he’d need it later anyway.

Reicha shook her head, “Not so fast, Princess. I have a stop to make.” She interrupted, leaning close to Aldrich’s ear and whispering something into it. Aldrich nodded and the three went outside, and Aldrich hunkered down, allowing Reicha to climb up onto his shoulders, “You’re riding up front this time.” She said, motioning to his arms.

Aldrich was blushing deeply as people walked by and gave them looks like they were insane, but he otherwise ignored it.

Blinking, she watched Reicha whisper into Aldrich’s and wondered what she had told him. She followed them outside, and blushed when Reicha climbed onto his shoulders, leaving Aldrich’s arms. The trembles returned as she moved close to him, closing the gap and allowing him to pick her up in his arms. Her own wrapped around his neck, and she could feel her heart beating fast now. It was then that she knew: nerves. She was nervous around him, but why? Finding herself facing another mystery, she smirks mentally.

It didn’t take them long to get to Reicha’s picked location. The hotel stood in front of them with brass familiarity. Reicha made her way in and jammed the elevator button and pressing it to go to their floor, with Aldrich (who was still carrying Sorcha) lagging behind, barely managing to get on the elevator before the doors closed, “What the hell, Reicha?”

Reicha simply raised an eyebrow, “You expected me to leave all my weapons behind? I don’t think so.” She said as she dismounted the elevator and headed down the hall. As they stopped outside her room, she quickly slid the keycard and opened the door. When Aldrich made to move through the door, Reicha caught him on the shoulder and took Sorcha out of his arms, pushing him back, all in one smooth motion, “Sorry, no boys allowed.” She said as she shut and locked the door, set Sorcha down, and drew a knife from her jacket, aiming it at Sorcha’s throat.

Sorcha was just beginning to enjoy being in Aldrich’s arms just when they arrived at the hotel (which surprised Sorcha) and followed Reicha up the elevator and to her room where she plucked the Princess from Aldrich’s arms, then closed the door on his face. She was even more surprised to find a knife aimed at her own throat. Eyes popping wide, Sorcha’s hands fly up in a defensive movement. “Wha-what is this, Reicha?”

“We need to talk. You and me. Woman to woman. You trust these…these men far too greatly. Do you remember your reaction to me when I first approach you? It was of caution. Of wariness. But when one of these men saunters up to you, you fall all over yourself. You’re swooning over this Aldrich fellow as if he was your knight in shining armor, and you can’t even see straight.” There was anger in her voice, but there was something else too, “You were WILLINGLY going to let him carry you off without any protection at all. Nothing. Do you even know how to fight? Can you even hold a blade? You are a naïve, immature, star struck fool who is so willing to trust in a man with a handsome face that you would give yourself up and jeopardize ALL of Concordia! Has any of this even crossed your mind?!”

Her brows frowned, her eyes small as they watched Reicha rant and rave at her about trusting people too easily. Did she? Did she trust people too easily? So, far… the people she has let herself trust turned out to be loyal and trustworthy. Reicha being one of them. Sorcha remembered their first meeting and how nervous she had been. She’d been nervous at the beginning of the journey, but somewhere along the way, that changed, but when? When did she become confident all of a sudden? Hmm… thinking upon it, she continued listening to Reicha, feeling slightly confused because Sorcha could sense how angry the Bounty Hunter was, but there was something else bothering her. Stepping towards her, Sorcha places a hand on Reicha’s, the one holding the knife. “Reicha, on such a journey as this, one must learn to trust. I have Concordia’s safety in mind at all time and nobody is going to change that fact; no man, no woman, no anybody. It is sometimes better to be naïve and trusting, rather than overly cautious and untrusting all the time. People need other people to accomplish tasks and be successful. Trust has to start somewhere.” She chose to ignore the ‘swooning’ over Aldrich part (she would investigate that a little later). “But, I can see something else is bothering you. What is it? You can tell me.”

Reicha’s gaze was stern and hard as Sorcha began to reply to her statements of anger. When her hand over Reicha’s own, her grip on the blade faltered, allowing it to bounce harmlessly to the carpet, “I was like you once. So naïve. So foolish. But look at where that got me. I have been on my own for years now, Sorcha, and I have not needed any help I could not force. Everyone is out for their personal gain and the faster you learn that, the better. Even I am not here by choice. I am simply here to reclaim my people’s names, despite past…complications.” She muttered. As she had been talking, the anger had been falling out of her voice and instead it was replaced with a nostalgic sadness, “Being cautious and untrusting has kept me alive. I have not made a friend that I could not shed as quickly as they could to me.”

As they knife dropped to the floor, Sorcha's hand slid forward and until their palms were touching. She led Reicha over to the table, sat her down in one of the chairs then moved the other close sit directly in front of her. Sorcha took Reicha’s hand again, and smiled softly. “Reicha, you no longer have to live that way. You have me as a friend and I will always be there for you; with the pact we made or not. You have proven your loyalty, and I know where you stand. No more fending alone; I am right there with you. My brothers are just as honor bound as I and will be your friend, too.” Her hand reached forward then, touching Reicha’s cheek gently. “When we retake Concordia, your people will be reclaimed by you. Their exile erased and no longer a concern. Look forward to the Future, Reicha, much happiness awaits you.”

Reicha pulled away and let out an angry scoff, “You know nothing, Princess. The Relequiste will not welcome me back. Not ever. Even if I manage to clear our names, an outcast is still an outcast!” She was shouting angrily now, and her fists were clenched tightly at her sides. With tense hands, she unwrapped the bandages on her right arm, revealing a long, dark scar that originated from just below the elbow to her wrist, “My father branded me with the mark of the outcast. His fangs cut through my flesh like two hot daggers. I say it again. You know NOTHING.” Despite her back being to Sorcha now, she could see the woman in the reflection of the glass mirror which was shattered and air circulated throughout the room. Vann’s handiwork was still fresh in her mind as she gazed at the destroyed balcony. Her lip quivered as she remembered her father’s booming voice. The hate. The disappointment. Her lip quivered as she prepared to say something else, but all that came out was a choked sob as she put her face into her hands.

As Reicha pulled away, Sorcha watched and listened. She didn’t say anything until Reicha stopped speaking and sobbed, placing her face in her hands. Her own eyes tearing up, Sorcha leans forward and touches Reicha’s back, rubbing gently. She didn’t know what to say, words not forming until finally, something came to mind. “You are right. I do not know anything, besides what has happened with Concordia. It is a good thing you do for your people, whether they appreciate it or not. Perhaps, when the war is over, your people will feel differently. Maybe your father will, too. If not, it is their loss and my gain. You are free to live wherever you choose, Reicha. Free to do what you want.” Pausing a moment, Sorcha chews on her lower lip before continuing, “What is it you are wanting the most, Reicha?”

Reicha kept her face in her hands was Sorcha tried to comfort her. It was a weird feeling. She would have been seen as weak within the tribe should she have broken down like this. Once again, she pulled away and said lowly, with fading anger, “Do not patronize me. My people will never feel any differently. My father…I disgraced him. I disgraced everyone…All of my bounties, they were to make up for the embarrassment I made my father faced…but…the hatred with which he looks at me is just…just…” She let out another sob again but tried to hide it. She took a breath and when she turned back to Sorcha, she was stern faced again, but her eyes were red, “Do I look like some child to you? I do not need your pity. I may not be a Cresend, but I am no child!”

Sorcha flinched at Reicha’s words. Her hand drew back to rest in her lap with the other. She was beginning to feel annoyed with herself. She usually knew what to say to comfort other people, but for some reason, this one was proving to be difficult. It might be because Reicha has lived a hard life, having been turned into an outcast by her father. Looking at her and sitting back in the chair, she says, “I am not patronizing you nor do you look like a child. You look… like a young woman who has led an unhappy life. I do not pity you, either. In fact, I envy you for having lived a non-sheltered life. I envy you for staying strong and doing what is right by your people. But yet, you seem so lost and unhappy with your life.”

Reicha scoffed, “You are a fool to envy. How old were you when you were taken prisoner? Five years ago would make you what, thirteen? I was younger than you, to my people, when I was outcasted. I was nothing but a child. Our lifespans are triple that of yours. In your human years, I may be forty eight, but in the years of my people, I am just barely sixteen. I was twelve when I was thrown out of my tribe with nothing but the clothes on my back and my blade and my wits. I have stared death in the eye more times than I can count. I have felled more enemies than I care to imagine. All in the name of survival. All in the name of self preservation. Do you still envy that? I do not reclaim my family’s name for the betterment of my people. I do it because that is what is expected of me. I do it because I am just another disposable asset to the world, and my living means nothing. Don’t you get it? I’m already dead.”


“Regardless of the differences, Reicha, I still envy you. You are a strong willed woman and very independent, though, you are like any being out there with a soul: you long for acceptance and are afraid to be alone. I have been alone for the past five years, without my brothers and my parents at my side. My entire family was nearly killed by the League. I no longer have parents to keep me safe and warm; I must seek this comfort and I have. I have Taran and Keegan in my life again; I have you, Saige, and Masaharu; I might have this Sir Aldrich as well if he turns out to be just as loyal.” She didn’t mention Scythe nor Corissa, her feelings for them undecided. “You no longer have to be alone, is what I am trying to point out, Reicha. I understand you did not reclaim your people’s name for yourself but because it was expected of you. But, I also know, you are denying your feelings. Do you not feel the bit victorious for accomplishing such a feat? I started my journey, because I know the entire world is expecting it of me, is waiting to see if I am successful or not. It is a heavy weight that I bare and I started out alone.” Sorcha’s gray eyes were now swimming in tears as they pooled around them. “I know how you feel, Reicha. What I don’t know is… why you let the past eat at you. You think you are dead… but you are not. You are full of life and are just looking for a way to live it.” The tears started falling and Sorcha stood up quickly, ashamed of the tears and walked to the other side of the room. The last five years and the years before that started parading across her mind; she missed her parents, missed Concordia….. her brothers, everything.

The room was quiet. Reicha broke the silence, “When we made our pact, I asked that my body be left to the sands should I fall in combat. Do you know why? Should I die, who would miss me. You? You barely know me. My father? He hasn’t missed me since he threw me out. To him, he never had a daughter. So who, in all the land, would miss me? Nobody. Not a single soul would even know of my demise should we fall. My guild mates would not miss me either. We attend our own funeral as our passing rites of the guild. That is why I am already dead. And if through my death, you are victorious? You will not remember me. Over years my name and face will fade from memory. That is why I am dead already. What is the point of living if you are a phantom?” She was frustrated and angry, but it wasn’t directed toward Sorcha. Maybe she was angry at herself. Maybe her father. Maybe the League. She didn’t know, just that she felt these feelings, “I will not be a foot note in someone’s story. I am making my own story.”

Turning back around to face Reicha, Sorcha could feel anger welling up inside her. How could Reicha sit there and say she was dead? Sure, she came from a different type of people than Sorcha, and yes, they had their own culture, their beliefs; but to think you are dead because your people no longer accept you was ludicrous! Walking back to her, Sorcha stops and leans down, stabling herself with one hand on the table. “Know you? I don’t have to know you, Reicha, to realize you are being--- being an idiot! You cannot see that you have succeeded in your mission! You cannot see how wonderful a person you are when others can. You are not dead!” Her hands flew to Reicha’s shoulders, gripping them tightly, “You are very much alive! Yes, you’re an outcast… but no longer. You are a child of Concordia. As for making your own story, you have already started it.” As she’d finished her sentence, Sorcha pulled Reicha into a hug, squeezing tight.

Reicha was stunned. Her hands floated behind Sorcha’s back for a moment before curling up and gripping the older girl. They stood like that for a few minutes, with Reicha’s face pressed into Sorcha’s shoulder. She wept for a few minute before she finally raised her head and the tougher shell that she put up for herself was gone, and Reicha the young girl was smiling out of the bounty hunter’s eyes, “Thank you, Oria. You…you do not mind if I call you that, do you? It…means “Older Sister” in the Relquistian tongue. But it is more than that as well. It is one who is a teacher, and who has earned respect.”

Blinking, Sorcha smiled softly to herself. All Reicha need to know was that someone cared. She just needed love, gentleness, and kindness. She’d been living this rough and tough life with nobody but herself for company. All that’s changed; she had Sorcha now. Rubbing her back and gently playing with her hair, Sorcha let Reicha cry softly on her shoulder and when she pulled, Sorcha listened quietly and was pleased. A big grin spread itself across her delicate features and she hugged the Bounty Hunter again, and then sat back in the chair across from her. “Of course you may call me Oria! I have always wanted a little sister! What do you call a little sister in Relquistian? I am glad to have earned your respect. It makes me so happy.” Her eyes twinkled, showing just how happy she was.

“I would be called Uroia Eaaroa. Little protective sister.” She said with a playful smile, “Uroia alone is little sister. Oria, I…I cannot thank you enough for this…It is a wonderful feeling to know that someone will miss me when I am gone.” She had a broad smile of her own on her face as she talked, “Now, I believe that there is something you’d like to attend to. While your clothes are no longer in disrepair, you smell somewhat like a frog from that disgusting lake.” With that, she motioned to the bathroom, which had a bounty of fragrant shampoos and soaps. She couldn’t help herself when it came to soaps. She so very rarely got to use them as it was.

“Uroia…” She tried out the name after giggling about the ‘Little Protective Sister’ remark. “Hmm... Uroia. I rather like that name! You shall be Uroia to me now.” Giggling some more, she looks in the direction of the bathroom. “Of course I will miss when you are gone, but that will not happen for awhile yet; I will see to it myself that you live long and prosperous life.” Standing up from the chair, she hugs Reicha. “If you do not mind, though… will you show me how to use the—bathing chamber? I have not yet learned how.”

Reicha felt herself tense less this time as Sorcha hugged her, “Of course, Oria.” She said, pushing open the door and eyeing the shower. It was of relatively the same design as the last one, but that didn’t stop her from having relative trouble with it. After fiddling with the nozzles a bit, water sprayed forth from the shower head, hitting her right on the side of the head with an icy blast. She let out something that was between a hiss and a shriek as she stumbled backwards, trying to brush the water off of her new clothes, “Vile contraption!” She hissed at it, grabbing a towel and dabbing her jacket, “Always catches me; every time.” She muttered, wringing out her hair.

Sorcha followed her into the bathroom and stood in the doorframe of the bathroom, watching her Uroia fidget with the gadgets. She giggled when the shower of cold water sprayed the side of her head and walked over to stand beside her. “That is quite an intriguing tub. A spout that sprays water, I may have to see about adopting this bit of technology for Concordia. It may be beneficial for our world.” She grinned. “I assume these bottles hold soap.” She asked while picking them up and figured out how to open them. She smelled them and giggled delightedly. “Smells beautiful. You may do as you wish now, Uroia. I will be finished here shortly.”

Reicha nodded. “I have a weakness for nice soaps.” She said with a devious little grin. None of these soaps had come with the room, “I’m going to go watch some TV. Give me a shout if you need anything.” She said as she slipped out of the room and plopped on the bed. Before she could even find the remote, sleep had overtaken her. She was simply so exhausted from her fight with Vann and then the excitement at the beach and the hospital that simply touching the soft bed was like jumping into a cloud.

She closed the door after Reicha left the bathing chamber. The shower was still running, but Sorcha had watched and learned how to operate the machinery to turn it off and back on again. She leaned over the tub and experimented a couple times and when the water was the perfect temperature, she stripped out of her clothing, and then jumped into the shower. She washed and scrubbed her hair multiple times till she was satisfied it was clean enough. Her body was next; she serviced it the same way; washing and scrubbing repeatedly till she was squeaky clean. After close to an hour, she finally stepped out and turned the faucet off. She dried herself off with a towel, pulled her clothes back on and pulled her hair back into a ponytail. She felt much better and smelled much better than before. Happy, she steps out of the bathroom and finds that Reicha had fallen asleep on the bed. Smiling, she walks over to the bed and sits down on it, playing with the strands of her new Little Sister’s hair. “Uroia, it is time to wake up. We must return to the beach and see if my brothers, Scythe, and Corissa have returned. I am afraid Aldrich might leave us here.”

Reicha, on most occasions, would have sat up and lashed out at whatever was disturbing her in her sleep. This case was no different. Her hand, which had been behind her head, gripped the knife in her hair almost subconsciously and brought it up to Sorcha’s throat, but just before the blade connected, she was halted by Sorcha’s voice. Her eyes opened and flashed with fear as she realized what had almost transpired, “By Concordia…! Oria, I didn’t…I mean, you just…I…” She tried to regain her composure by taking a deep breath and starting over, “I am dangerous, Oria, and I do not want to hurt you. If you must wake me, do it from a safer distance, as the usual wake-up calls in the desert or the wilds are not pleasantries. My reflexes have been honed to traveling alone and everything being out for my life. It will…take some time to break my body of its habits.” She said, lacing the small blade back into her hair and snuggly into the sheath that also acted as a hair bun, hidden in her long hair.

She jumped as the knife was pointed at her throat; the second time in just a matter of hours. When Reicha realized who she was pointing the knife at, Sorcha smirked and patted the younger girl’s hand. “You are forgiven, Uroia. Let us gather your belongings and fetch, Aldrich. We really should return. I would rather arrive first before my brothers.” Standing up from the bed, she walks to the door and waits by it.

Stripping off her jacket, Reicha began the process of suiting herself up with her many knife belts. After she had looped all of them around various parts of her body, she slipped the jacket back on over the top of it and put the handgun in her belt holster and hid it underneath the jacket. As she went to meet Sorcha by the door, she resumed her stern face, “With the others…Oria is a title given to important clients, and Uroia is given to their protector. The others must see me as a veritable killing machine instead of just another fleshy female, and the youngest of the group at that. So I ask that we keep what was said in this room between us. Please.” She said, her eyes serious, but her voice still that of her normal self, even as her body resembled her shell.

She watched with wide eyed curiosity as Reicha loaded up the many different knife belts and whatever weaponry she’d brought with her. Sorcha wondered if all those were heavy and if so... the young woman was strong enough to carry them all, she was sure. The Princess nodded with understanding at the Bounty Hunter’s words. “Of course, Uroia. We have our secrets as I am sure they have theirs.” Smiling, she takes Reicha’s into her own and squeezes. “Let us leave now, hm?”

Reicha gave Sorcha one last girlish smile before the last of her true self faded beneath the bounty hunter persona and she pushed open the door, “All set to go, Skippy.”

Aldrich, who had long since fallen asleep, awoke with a start. He had hunkered against the wall and had his playing cards spread out in front of him in a game of Solitaire which looked about half finished. As he rubbed his eyes and shook his head to clear away the sleep, Reicha kicked his boot, “Come on, we haven’t got all day sleeping beauty. Up and at’em.”

Aldrich gathered up his cards and stretched, “Yeah, yeah, I got it, I got it.” When his eyes lay on Sorcha and her wet hair, he knew what this trip had been about and he laughed a little, “Take long enough, Mil…Sorcha?”

Sorcha followed her out into the hall and giggled watching her kick the boot off a sleepy eyed Aldrich. She blushed at his question and moved forward to hide it, bending down to help him pick up the cards. “Not long enough, no… Aldrich. I would have liked a bath but—the higher water spout will have to do for now.” She wasn’t sure what to call the other thing, the one she’d actually used. After picking up all the cards, she hands them over to him. “Here you go.”

“A shower, you mean. It’s more or less for quick bathing; most people on Earth don’t have the luxury of bathing for more than eight or so minutes.” As they finished up picking up the cards, he slid them into the box and Reicha was already moving down the hallway toward the elevator. Aldrich cast a glance at Sorcha and muttered, “I swear, that girl is strung tighter than a clock spring.”

She giggled, even though she had no clue what Aldrich said and followed Reicha, walking beside him. “She is a good friend… once you get to know her, just try not to cross her bad side and you will be okay around her.” Looking up at him, she smirks. “Did you have a good nap?”

Aldrich stretched his neck as they walked, trying to get the many cricks out of his back and neck, “To be honest, falling a sleep in a hotel hallway while playing Solitaire and waiting for a cute girl to finish taking an hour long shower was not on my list of to do things today, but I can definitely think of worse ways to spend an afternoon.” They boarded the elevator and it quickly descended. As it opened up to the lobby, Reicha began to walking toward the lobby exit, with Sorcha and Aldrich not far behind.

As they approached the lobby, Sorcha watched Aldrich stretch his neck as if it pained him. For some reason, she had the sudden urge to smooth away those pains. After all, they were her fault, weren’t they? She had blushed at the ‘cute girl’ remark and walked the rest of the way in silence beside him. Sorcha still wanted to heal his aches and when they reached the lobby, she’d taken his hand to lead him to a set of chairs. Gently pushing him in one, she moves around to his back, “Sit and relax, I am going to heal your aches from sleeping in such an awkward position. They were caused by me, so I want to help.” Lifting her hands, they rest on his shoulders and she closes her eyes, whispering a soft enchantment. Warm soon radiates from her fingers and onto his shoulders, spreading to his neck and back. Her fingers had begun to knead gently, but firmly on his neck and shoulders.

As Aldrich sat, he got out a, “Don’t worry about it-“ Before the soothing warmth encompassed his aching muscles. As the pain left him, he noticed that she was still massaging. Part of him told him how improper this all was, but another part of him was lost in her fingers as they worked over his shoulders and neck, “Wow, that magic sure works wonders, doesn’t it?” he asked, catching a glance from Reicha who had stationed herself by the hotel lobby doors. She seemed less hostile than before, but he supposed it was probably just his imagination.

She could feel the aches in his muscles loosening each time she let the warmth trickle a bit at a time from her fingertips. They continued to knead into his neck and shoulders, occasionally moving down his spine then back up again. Once all they kinks were gone, she still continued to massage without knowing it. She liked the way his muscles felt; so strong underneath her fingertips. She’d heard his voice and when the words registered in her mind, she pulled away quickly and blushed. “Yes. It is something my mother taught me as a child. Do you feel any better, now?”

Aldrich had to admit he was a little disappointed when Sorcha stopped her massage, but he knew that it was in their best interest if they got back to the beach post haste. Otherwise, Sorcha’s brothers would no doubt go on a war path. He stood up and stretched a little, “Much better. You should let me repay the favor sometime.” He said with a smirk, gathering her up in his arms and crouching so Reicha could get on his shoulders and he sprinted off, back towards the beach.

Miami: Regained Sight

It felt like he had been sifting through his own mind for hours, as he sat on the rooftop. He went through all of the tragedies that had hit him so devastatingly. As he did this, bursts of thunder and lightning shot across the skies of Miami. Like before, the memories were heavy, but something began to grow within him. He was starting to realize everything, everything he had to do. His shut eyes shot open in an instant. The storm seemed to vanish from the sky, but the bright moonlit skies didn't match Taran's demeanor. A serious look showed on his face as he got up from his spot and looked toward the where the sun had already set.

"The League of Twelve did this, but they cannot take all the credit. I unintentionally caused some of the pain that had stricken me. Whatever I have caused in the past five years, would be impossible for me to undo... I could say my life is worthless, that it would be best for me to allow Halikair to take me at this instant, but I wouldn't be able to do what I need to." Taran smiles as he thinks of the ones he has lost, about the times they had been standing right beside him. "Mother, Father, Orlan, Jaeger, Tristan, Elliot... I will avenge you. I will make that my reason, for my vision is to see Valius crumple to name, Wolfsbane. I must first make a gift of this curse you've bestowed upon me my dearest brother." Taran said as his eyes went feral, and then changed back. I wonder if they have left the beach. Taran thought as the sky became dark with black clouds that blocked out the full moon. Thunder rumbled, but not a drop of water fell from the sky.

After several minutes, clouds begin to gather heavily over the dock where Sorcha is concentrating on connecting with Markell. Taran could have met with the others, but he wished to speak to his sister first. Flash of lightning, Taran appears by Sorcha's side wearing a black suit, with a sheathed sword at his waist. Taran had paid a visit to his home before getting back. He took a seat beside her quietly, trying his best not to disturb her. He made a questioning look as he eyes Sorcha's attire. He would have to speak to her about the black leather after she was finished. I can't believe Keegan allowed you to wear this.

((Okay, this happened BEFORE Taran's return, FYI.))

Corissa listened to the exchange between Keegan and Scythe. They seemed to be more entertaining than the thoughts of Taran at the moment. She’d almost giggled at Scythe when he thought the CD’s to be some sort of weapon. She could hear the animosity between the two as they tried real hard to be nice to one another. She realized then that Scythe didn’t have his seatbelt on. Hell, he probably didn’t even know he needed it. Well, from the back, she could see through the rearview mirror and the expression on Keegan’s face; he looked ready to kill somebody in particular. Unbuckling her seatbelt, she leans forward and reaches across Scythe’s body to grab the seatbelt. “You need this before we… get in a wreck.” She glimpsed over to Keegan and smirked. She buckled the seatbelt then sat back in against her seat and re-buckled her own.

Scythe was still confused and fascinated with the CD's. How did they possibly fit whole musical bands on a small, thin object? He didn't even know such magic had existed, although that wouldn't be very useful for battle so he wouldn't have needed to. As Aliana leaned over and fastened his seatbelt for him, he just looked at her puzzled. "What is this wreck? Why would we not want to be in it? Is it some kind of torture chamber?" He may have been to Earth a few times, however their culture and whatnot still baffled him. He looked at Keegan for a moment. "How does one summon the music from these weapons?”

Keegan grit his teeth. Scythe knew nothing about the Earth language, and it was only adding to the aggravation, “Just…don’t worry about it, okay? I’ll worry about wrecks and cars and driving, and you two sit there and don’t say anything. Okay? That would make this trip SO much easier. As if this drive isn’t stressful enough.” He muttered, popping a random CD into the CD player. He didn’t even care what came out, just so long as it shut up Scythe.

Scythe sat back as Keegan very rudely responded. Normally he would've just stabbed em in the throat for the attitude, but that would've been counterproductive. Scythe shrugged as Aliana mentioned visiting more. It wasn't actually that easy to get away from that jackass Valius. As she put on some music on he had a look of pain and sickness on his face. What was this utter cheery and bubble gum shit? He sat there disgusted as he just stared out the window. An awkward car ride, with a grumpy ass next to him, and shitty music. Maybe he would actually throw up and complete the trifecta of a shitty time.

Keegan’s fist slammed into the CD player’s eject button, “No. Fucking. Way.” He grunted as he snapped the disk in half and tossed it out the window. He instead turned the radio on to some random TV station and some Linkin Park started playing. He wasn’t privy to American bands, but at least it was better than that other shit that had been spewing forth from the machine seconds ago, “Where the hell am I going?”

She stopped singing and sighed when the CD was stopped. She really loved that song and Linkin Park fit the mood of the van too well; gloomy and angry. She wanted to somehow break the awkwardness but didn’t know how. Muttering softly to herself, she stares out the window and answers Keegan’s question. “We need to head back to Miami and go in the direction of Se- I mean, Taran’s estate. There is a cave just down the road.” She gave him the address and when she saw the highway splitting into a fork, she told him which direction to take and continued giving him directions as they drove towards Miami. It took close to two hours to find the estate. Driving passed it, Corissa couldn’t help but to stare at the house as they drove by it. So many memories had been made there… and now they were all gone. She directed him to the cave and they soon arrived at their destination.

Scythe was enjoying the ride more once Keegan had changed the music. Of course it was still awkward as fuck, but some song about bleeding it out made it better. He wasn't very easy the whole car ride. It definitely wasn't a time on Earth he wanted to remember or try again any time soon. When they arrived Scythe grabbed Halikair and got out of the car stretching. He released the enchantment from the cave and headed inside. Right where he had left them, were a crate of potions and his armor. He nodded his head as he picked up a piece of armor and smiled. "Aliana, would you aid me in loading my armor into the car?"

As they got to the cave, Keegan took a moment to stretch. He wasn’t going to go into any creepy ass caves with Scythe. No way in hell. He was glad that Scythe didn’t ask him to help. Reaching into his shirt pocket, he pulled out a pack of cigarettes. It was a habit he’d picked up in his time as James, and he knew there would be none in Concordia, so might as well as enjoy them while he had the chance. He tapped the pack against his palm a few times making sure the tobacco didn’t fall out and lit up a cigarette. He pinched it between his lips and took a long drag. It helped his nerve, that’s for sure. Letting it out in a burst, he watched as the smoke curled up and faded away.

As Corissa passed by Keegan to go help Scythe with the transferring of his stuff, she saw him puffing on a cigarette and smirked. “You know, that can cause serious diseases. Don’t let your sister see you doing that; she’s bound to ask questions. We won’t be long.” Walking into the cave with Scythe, she looks around and sighs. “I’m going to miss coming here… Why did all this have to happen… at all?” She walks around the cave, touching this and that, thinking about not just Taran, but of Scythe and her time on Earth.

Scythe didn't turn around, but he did place his armor back down. "What was done is done. There is nothing even the Gods can do to change it. However this isn't the last time we have to come here. After we help win the war. We don't have to stay in Concordia. After all, it's not like we would have anything there. Unless you can't leave Taran. In any case, Earth may be a good way to get a new start. It's not like I couldn't use that, and I would need someone to help me learn the ropes of earth you know."

Scythe turned and looked at Corissa. "Who said visit? I say we throw Concordia behind us and escape to Earth. Just you and me, together. Don't talk about yourself as a lowly slave. I'm sorry that I ever treated you that way. I can see now that you never deserved that treatment. You will find someone who loves you Aliana. I know that for sure. I...." Scythe walked closer to Aliana and stood next to her. "I..... There is somthing about you Aliana. I have never felt for anyone they way I feel for you. I cannot say for sure that it is Love, however if these feeling are not what one would describe as love, then I fear that I will never feel it either..... Aliana..... I believe that I may love you, so don't say that you will never be loved. You already are."

She couldn’t believe what she was hearing. The words looked as if they were coming from Scythe’s mouth and it sounded like his voice… Did he really love her? Was it the ‘I’m in love with you’ sort of love? Or was just… friendly kind of love. She continued to stare up at him for a few moments, before words finally came to her, though she stuttered… “Y-you lov-love me, Scy-I mean, Devin…” As she said the name, she began to wonder how she hadn’t realized it before. He was only allowing her to call him by his true name and nobody else. Eyes wide, they soften just a bit and she smiles some… still a little flabbergasted. “I… I don’t—Are you sure? This isn’t just one of your many tricks…?”

Scythe stared at her for a minute. A trick? Did she really think that he would try and trick her about this? He’s never used love as a ploy to get someone before. Then again he never actually believed something like love could exist. “No. I assure you this is no trick. I rarely use tricks and I have never been anything but honest with you. You know that. There would be no point in me trying to trick you now. However if you can’t believe me, then perhaps it was wrong of me to say anything in the first place.” He was hurt that she would think he would try and trick her. However he would never admit it.

Corissa continued to stare up at him, her mind so baffled that it couldn’t quite grasp the situation. He said he loved her… but was it real? Scythe had never loved anyone a day in his life… besides himself (if even that). Her heart was beating slow and a little unsure. She tried reading his expression and she could hear his voice; was it truth? True, he had never lied to her or even played any of his tricks on her. He had treated her differently than his other slaves, letting her roam freely about his castle and doing as she wished. Was this why? Was it because he loved her and just now realized it? That would be like Scythe… to be completely dense about feelings besides the need to kill something. But then, she started analyzing her own feelings for him. Had she not enjoyed being in his arms while he lay in the hospital bed with her? Had she not felt panic when he began massacring those people? Then the kiss… had she not enjoyed that as well? But what about Sean.... who was now Taran, a Prince of Concordia once again. Sighing softly, she runs a hand through her hair and stands up to walk around. She didn’t know what to say… her feelings were so twisted around. She needed to understand these feelings before she made any sort of decision. Turning back to Scythe, she finally says, “Devin… I don’t want to say that I have the same feelings for you when I’m not sure if I really do. I feel something… and it is strong, but… then there is Taran. I… wish I could say I knew for sure.”

Scythe stared at her with almost no expression on his face. She still possibly loved Taran? Did the kiss they shared mean nothing? Maybe he was right in assuming that love never really existed. He turned around and once more faced his effects. “I see. Perhaps that is something you need to figure out before you decide anything then. Wouldn’t want you making a choice your unhappy with. However if you cannot choose, I would gladly slay Taran and the rest of Concordia to get you.” With that he walked over and began to once more stack all of his stuff up so they just had to make one trip to the car with it all. He was hurt. This was something that not even his potions could heal.

Stunned, Corissa watched as Scythe turned away and began gathering his belongings. One part of his little speech constantly repeated itself in her mind: 'I would gladly slay Taran and the rest of Concordia to get you.' Now, if she'd been a normal woman, she would have walked out of the cave and got as far away from the crazy man before her; but, that was-- coming to the realization -- was what she loved about him. It was the best gift one could ever received from Scythe. Smiling, and eyes sparkling mischievously, Corissa walks over to stand next to him, arms crossed. "So, you would kill the entire world for me, hm? That... is the best thing anybody has ever said to me." Covering the remaining distance between them to grab his shirt and pull him to her, she stands on tip toe to bring their lips together.

Scythe was just packing up everything when he heard her moving. He activated Omniscient Sight to see that she was moving closer to him and then he quickly deactivated it once more. He also saw Keegan smoking outside, but he didn’t really care about him. There was no blood from such a quick glance. As she spoke he turned to look at her. As she mentioned that being the best thing anyone ever said to her, he smiled, although that was really sad. As she pulled him closer and kissed him he just pulled her closer to him and held her. He really did love her. That must have been it. Love did exist and they both found it. Wasn’t the world strange?

As Scythe wrapped his arms around her, Corissa's arms snaked up and around his neck. She held him closer, her feelings for him pouring from her through the kiss. It was quite possibly the best kiss she's had.... ever. The whole mission was forgotten; their ride, Keegan, forgotten. Nothing else mattered but this moment of newly found love between two people.

Keegan flicked his cigarette at the two love birds, “Don’t mean to break anything up, but there is a killer going after my brother, and he just happens to be closing incredibly quickly. So pardon my Irish, but fuck on your own time.” He grunted, lighting up another cigarette, “Get your shit and let’s go.”

Scythe pulled his lips away from Corissa's as Keegan spoke. He glared and pulled his far hand from Corissa. He put it on one of his knives and stood for a moment. He could kill Keegan and they could get away right now. Vann would kill Markell and then Taran would be the only one left with all the power. So they would die, who really cared in the end? Most of everyone who would care, would be dead. Corissa may not like it, but it was possible. Plus it was his way of doing things. "It's your brother who we're waiting on you know. 2 minutes won't kill anyone." Well they could if Scythe wanted to, but it wasn't the person anyone would assume.

She groaned hearing Keegan's voice and pulled away just as Scythe did. She glared at him as well for interrupting their special moment. For some reason, she didn't care about the whole mission. It wasn't that important to her anymore and if Concordia was doomed for all eternity, then so be it. You know that's not true, Corissa, a little voice said, nagging at the back of her head. If Concordia were forever doomed, you would be a sad little puppy. It's your home and you will miss it; knowing somewhere down the road you could've stopped it. The nagging voice was right; she'd miss Concordia too much. Sighing softly, her arms move down to wrap around Scythe's torso, embracing him before she pulled away. "He's right, Scythe. We should hurry along."

Keegan glared at Scythe, “Except maybe Markell. I’m leaving your asses here when this cigarette burns out.” He growled, getting back in behind the wheel of the van.

Scythe nodded at Corissa and let go of a dagger. He placed his arm around her shoulders and walked with her over to his stuff after Keegan had left. "You'd be upset if I killed him right now right? Just asking." He really did wanna stab the guy, so much. However that was a bad plan. "I guess we better get all this in the car. Unless I you'd rather I just kill him. That I would be game for."

She smirked at Scythe and went about gathering his stuff. "Although I may find it incredibly... sexy for you to kill--Gods only know why-- doesn't mean I will always encourage it. Let's just hurry up and load this stuff so we can return." Smiling, she picks up what she could carry and hurries out to the van, loads it, then sits in the backseat again buckling her seatbelt. She figured he could get the rest.

Scythe looked at Corissa and shrugged. So she liked it when he killed. Well normally that would be pretty weird, but not to Scythe. After all he was raised to kill. "Alright I guess he can live for now. Although if he gives me that attitude again can I at least stab him. You know in the leg or something. I won't even blood rage it." He wasn't really kidding either, Keegan's attitude pissed him off. Scythe was the better fighter and if Keegan didn't watch himself Scythe would prove it. Right now though he just filled his arms with the rest of his stuff. One last time he reactivated the enchantment on the cave. Once all was packed up he got back in the car. "Wonder if Sean... err Taran is back yet. He seemed pretty upset. So tell me, is this how you reacted to the news Keegan? Are we in for the same shit with Markell?"

Keegan grunted as he flicked the butt of his cigarette out the window, “You mean was I a complete pussy and flip the fuck out about it? No. But, taking that into account, I doubt that Taran and I had comparable lives in our imprisonment. And I suppose finding out that his ‘sister’ and her boyfriend were part of the plot didn’t help all that much. At least Jarev was using his daughter as a puppet with me. She didn’t do it voluntarily.” He said as he stepped on the gas, speeding back onto the highway. He wanted to get back to the beach and get away from Scythe as quickly as possible. Using one hand, he lit up another cigarette. Sitting in this damn car with his brother’s killer was giving him a severe craving for his smokes. He looked down at the box. Only four left. He considered stopping off somewhere to get some more, but he suppose then he’d just be a hypocrite.

The second Keegan hit the gas pedal and took off down the road, Corissa was pushed against the back of her seat by the force of the car as it moved. Glaring at Keegan through his rearview mirror, she snaps at him. "Hey! Why don't you slow down? It might do us all a bit of good. By the way, I didn't voluntarily watch over Taran. I was Scythe's slave and he made me do it. I had no choice in the matter. You had better be glad we were both there when Vann showed up, otherwise, Taran would be dead by now. Instead of sounding accusing, why don't you sound a little grateful?"

“Tch. My apologies ‘Milady’. I’m grateful that your boyfriend there, along with his colleagues, went on a rampage that killed hundreds of people. I’m grateful that of those hundreds of people, three of my brothers, my mother, and my father were of them. I’m grateful that my baby sister was imprisoned for five years of her life and no doubt tortured. I’m grateful that I, along with both of my living brothers, were placed in fake lives. I’m grateful that my youngest living brother was turned into a monster by the likes of you and Chuckles back there. Thanks to both of you. I really fucking appreciate it. How is that for gratitude?” He growled, his eyes flickering from the road to the two in his rear view mirror, “I don’t expect you to understand anything. Because whether we live or die, you’ve got the good life, don’t you? An easy way out. Fan-fucking-tastic. Well, my homeland is being run into the ground. There’s not running away from that for me, for Taran, for Sorcha, and if we’re lucky, for Markell. So excuse me if I find it a little hard to be gracious.” As he finished, he slammed the radio and cranked up the volume, in an attempt to drown out whatever retort they had.

Corissa continued to glare at him through the mirror. The music was blaring too loud and she hated it. The sound was hurting her ears and she was already aggravated; the music only added onto it. Grumbling under her breath, she unbuckles her seatbelt and pushes the front of her body to the front of the car and turns off the music. "Ugh. I'd rather listen to you bitch and moan than listen to that racket." Sitting back in her seat, she looks over at Scythe, who was sitting beside her and looking cheerily through the window. Why wasn't he pissed or anything? If he was, he sure was hiding it really well. Perhaps, she should try the same. Thinking of something, she grins and slides closer to him, takes his arm and wraps it around her shoulders. Cuddling up to him, she pulls his head down for a long, elaborate kiss. It was all to piss Keegan off or at least make him feel uncomfortable.

Scythe sat there letting them argue. He really didn't get the point of gratitutde. As long as they knew who was strong, did it matter who did what? They were mere allies of convenience. Why pretend to be more? As Scythe noticed Corissa getting up to shut off the radio he turned to her since he wasn't wearing a seatbelt anyway. He found them uncomfortable and figured he could survive some wreck and potion any damage off. As Corissa came closer to him and pulled him into a kiss he didn't fight it. After all it was so much better then a boring car ride. He just got even closer to her and played completely into what she had wanted. Although it would be a lie to say that he didn't want it too so it really didn't matter.

Keegan rolled his eyes as Corissa leaned up front and turned off the music. Her shitty attitude just proved it. She was as bad as the rest of the League. Slave his ass, she had probably enjoyed leading Taran along like an idiot. His pure hatred for these…he couldn’t even call them people…these beings, was palpable. He would simply ignore them. They were just trying to get his goat, and as stupid as that was when he was the driver, he wasn’t going to let them have their fun. Instead, he closed his window and began blowing smoke towards the passenger side of the car, where it would eventually drift back to them and cloud.

Corissa forgot all about her reason for kissing Scythe once he began responding back to her. She hadn't noticed Keegan roll up his window and by the time the smoke actually started filling the backseat, Corissa was on flat on her back with Scythe on top of her... nothing but their lips touching and maybe a few sneaky touches by Scythe. Corissa was breathing through her nose and as the smoke began floating their way and filling the car, she started to choke and quickly pulled away from Scythe's lips to cough and sputter. Her body hitched then rolled to the floorboard where she hit her side on the back of the console. She cried out, but at the same time sucked in more of the smoke and coughed and sputtered. She never did do well around cigarette smoke.

Scythe was enjoying himself to say the least. He really didn’t mind the smoke since he had been used to smoke and the stench of burning flesh from countless battles. Corissa however had a different reaction. She pulled away, fell and clearly got hurt, however was unable to even voice it due to Keegan’s childish actions. Scythe looked at Keegan and glared, but first thing came first. He had to help Corissa. He sat up straight and with a single punch, busted out the back window nearest to him. He then did the same to the other back window, as well as the back windshield. He picked the few pieces of glass from his arm and took out a potion. He drank half of it to heal the injuries of the shattered glass in his arms. Then he helped her up and offered the rest of the potion to her. It would help her feel better for sure and now the smoke was all out of the car. He took out a dagger and held it up to the seat directly behind Keegan. He looked at Corissa just wanting the okay. Almost nothing would make him happier at this point then to plunge it. The one thing he would enjoy more of course, was the only reason Keegan wasn’t stabbed yet.

Keegan simply smirked as Scythe busted out the windows, “Oh, that’s going to effect the resale value.” He said, letting out another puff of smoke. He simply watched Scythe pull the dagger from it’s sheath and then have it disappear behind the seat, “Let me tell you why your little plan is bad there. Number one, stabbing the driver of a moving vehicle going excessively fast and has locked your doors is not the smartest thing to do. Number 2, as soon as that knife goes in, I’d absorb your life force, so you’ll only be inflicting pain on yourself, hardly a smart move. Number 3, as soon as I was fully healed, I’d freeze both of your asses to the seat and enjoy a nice, peaceful drive back to the beach, where I would bury the two of you alive. So I suggest you put the butter knife away and shut the hell up.”

Once Corissa was back on her seat next to Scythe and able to breathe and talk again, she looked at the dagger her Love aimed dangerously to the back of Keegan's seat. She was about to shake her head no when Keegan began to speak. When he was finished, she rolled her eyes and took the dagger out of Scythe's hand. She resheathed it, and then made him sit back. "There is no use fighting anymore. I've grown tired of it." She now had a headache, even after swallowing the potion. Laying her head down on to Scythe's lap, she closes her eyes.

Keegan simply shrugged. At least now they would hopefully shut the fuck up and their drive would be quiet, save for the wind blowing through the now windowless back half of the car.

Scythe pouted as she made him put away his dagger. He hoped that she'd let him kill in the future. After all he really liked the killing. When she laid on his lap he just sat back with a smile on his face. "We can settle this after we retake Concordia. That is if you survive that long. Until then I suppose killing you would be pointless. Oh and trust me if I wanted to stab you, you wouldn't be around for number three. I'm not very good with a slow and painful death. Just ask Elliot."

Keegan laughed, “Oh, scary. I’m quaking in my skirt over here, Chuckles. Why don’t you be a good dog and shut up with your tail between your legs, like you master told you to and let me worry about doing the driving, hmm?”

Scythe stared at him at his chuckles comment, as well as the dog thing. Insults didn’t really matter to him. “Perhaps you could find someone to love you if you didn’t wear a skirt. Although you do seem the type that loves yourself more then anyone else could possibly, so have a nice life alone. I’m sure it will fit you well.”

Scythe sat there with Corissa the rest of the ride back. He had one hand running through her hair, while the other just rested on her and held her. After another long drive they had finally reached the Beach and that meant that no longer would he need to deal with Keegan. Instead of saying a word to him however, he just gently shook Corissa. “We have arrive back. Wake up Aliana.”

Keegan got out of the car as soon as it was in park on the beach. Finally, he was done with those…those…monsters. He could think of no other word for them. Looking around the beach, he noticed two things. One, that Taran was not back yet. Two, that somehow, Reicha, Sorcha, and the new guy had all managed to disappear. What the hell. He marched over to Masaharu and Saige, “Where the hell is my sister?”

Corissa woke up to Scythe's nudging her. Sitting up, she looks around and sighs in relief. "We have indeed arrived! Thank the Gods." She opened the car door and climbed out, stretched her legs then smiled, happy to be free from the confines of the damn thing.

Masaharu and Saige were sitting back in their usual spot, after having panicked about the fact they were the only ones left on the beach. They were beginning to wonder if anyone would return when Keegan pulled him in the van with Scythe and Corissa inside. They knew the brother was going to be angry once he realized Sorcha wasn't there, neither was the AWOL sibling. As Keegan marched right over to them demanding to know where Sorcha was, Masaharu stood up, as did Saige, but it was Masaharu who shrugged, explaining. "We... aren't exactly sure. She left with the new guy and Reicha just after you left."

“Gah, are you kidding me?” He asked, letting out a sigh, “Well….at least she has the sense to bring Reicha with her. I don’t suppose they bothered to let you know where they were going, did they? Or when they would be back?” He asked, begrudgingly shoving his last cigarette into his mouth and lighting it. Puffing a little, he wondered where the nearest convenience store was. And where the hell was Taran?

Masaharu shook his head, shrugging again. "No. We were on our way over to see what was going on, but they disappeared before we could find out."

Scythe got out of the car after Corissa and forced the trunk open after stretching. “I suppose I should suit up shouldn’t I? Once the others return we will be going.” He began to unpack his armor as well as the crate of potions. They would need a way to figure out to carry all of them into battle between the two of them. He wasn’t about to just hand out his potions to the group of idiots he wanted to kill himself.

Keegan was about to say something when Aldrich appeared on the beach, putting down his sister and Reicha who now looked like they were some sort of…of…hell, he didn’t even know what to call it, “Sorcha, what in Concordia’s name are you wearing?!”

Aldrich looked up from helping Sorcha to her feet. Oh shit. Big brother didn’t exactly seem happy with the Princess’ choice in clothing. No doubt he would get ripped a new one for this, especially for being the new guy.

Reicha crossed her arms as Keegan made a scene. She saw nothing wrong with Sorcha’s current state of dress. It was far more battle worthy than that stained dress she had been wearing. And ten times cleaner as well.

Hearing Keegan yell, Corissa turns around and smirks, crossing her arms. “Well, well… Look who’s grown up.”

Sorcha heard her brother yelling across the beach and turned to look at him, a look of utter defiance on her face. Raising a brow, she stands her ground. “Keegan, I am old enough to decide what it is I wear. This new outfit will protect my skin from becoming damaged, ‘tis what the tailor woman said.”

Keegan put his hands to his temples and massaged. She was going to be the death of him yet, “Sorcha, you look like some…some prostitute waiting to bind a man to a bed and pleasure him. Did you even look in a mirror?” He turned his glare on Aldrich now, “Why would you allow your future queen to wear such garments?!”

Aldrich didn’t even flinch, “As you said, my lord, she is the future queen. What exactly am I, a humble servant, to do to stop her? Besides, the bounty hunter would have bitten off my hand should I have tried to protest.” He said, jerking a thumb at Reicha who gnashed her teeth.

Keegan threw his hands up in the air. Clearly he was the only sane one amongst the group. He deeply wished that Taran would stop being a bitch and actually assist him in talking sense into their sister, “Fine. Fine. See if I care.” He put his hands up defensively, “Go ahead and traipse about like some lowly call girl. I don’t care, since your obvious wisdom clearly trumps mine, especially since I ONLY spent the last five years on this planet.”

Sorcha narrowed her eyes at her brother. She knew not of the words he used but for some reason, she did not like them. Was he comparing her to one of those… serving wenches she once saw in a tavern while passing through the kingdom’s villages? Still glaring at him, she steps forward, hands on her tiny hips. “How dare you call me such names, Keegan Wolfsbane! I am your sister. Besides, I needed new clothing and… and I disliked the other articles of clothing I saw. This leather fits me nicely and covers more than the dress. So, I would greatly appreciate it if you would stop being so bossy with me. After all, I did find you, did I not?”

Scythe had put on all of his armor rather quickly. Corissa seemed to preoccupied with the drama to care, so he didn’t ask for her help. After he had it all on he placed his knives into the holster built into the armor. They blended in quite well. Then he grasped Halikair. It was important he was able to fight in the armor so he needed to make sure it was on correctly. He turned to the car and jumped above it. Activating blood rage he sliced the car in half in mid air. He landed on the two halves as they collided
He stood tall atop them for a few moments before jumping down next to Corissa and placing Halikair on his back. Once down he noticed a bookbag type bag in the car. It wasn’t damaged at all. He took it and then threw it on the ground. He didn’t say a word just went about his business. He equipped himself with about half the potions he had and placed the rest into the bag.
He stood back up and then handed the bag to Corissa. “Use them as needed, and guard them. I know I can trust you with them.” He couldn’t carry anymore himself and this way Corissa did have a way to heal if needed. He walked over towards the drama on the beach, leading her there. He smiled as he saw the questionable outfit Sorcha was wearing.

“Hey even I have to agree that it’s rather inappropriate for you princess. Unless you’re some sidewalk trash, you need to be a more refined young woman to wear something like that.” He thought for a moment and turned to Corissa. “Hey, you’re a refined young woman. I bet you could pull it off quite well. We should go see if we can get you one. What do you say?”

Keegan shook his head. Even the deranged nutcase was agreeing with him. He must be going crazy. Reaching into his shirt pocket, he pulled out the pack of cigarettes, hoping against all hope that one was left. To his dismay, there were none. In frustration, he crushed the box in his hand, and turned his back on the three, tossing the crushed box over his shoulder, “No, no, do whateeeeeever you want, dear sister. You shall hear no more complaints from me. I shall go and sit in the corner, and then when the time comes for us to take back the castle, you can just order me what to do, and I will obey like some obedient dog.” He didn’t even bother to look at her as he angrily said this over his shoulder. He really couldn’t bear to look at her. What would their parents have said if they could have seen them now?

Why were they so against her wearing this outfit? Perhaps, she should just go back herself and return it to purchase something else. But, that would give her brother the satisfaction he so did not deserve! She glared at his back as he walked away then looked at Scythe, turning her glare towards him. She understood one word that he said –trash- and wasn’t at all pleased by the comparison. Before she turned away, she noticed Corissa smack him on the back of his head and yell at him, “Is that what I am to you? A street walker?” Sorcha smirked and teleported, disappearing from the beach altogether.

As the sibling rivalry continued to build, Riecha simply watched. Sure she could step in, but the tension would only get worse if they didn’t work this out now. Instead, though Sorcha disappeared, “Oria, no wait!” She shouted, but it was already to late. She angrily turned to Keegan’s back and yelled something even he couldn’t understand in her native tongue before stomping off.

Aldrich simply crossed his arms and gave Keegan a look, “Smooth, my lord, smooth.” He muttered. By this point, Keegan whirled around and hit Aldrich with the back of his fist, sending the younger man to the ground, “I am Keegan Wolfsbane, and you are nothing but a servant to the Duke. This is your fault to begin with! If you hadn’t insisted on getting her those…those…whore clothes, we would not be in this predicament.” Keegan shouted, before turning around and stomping up the beach and toward the street. He just needed to find a convenience store and by some cigarettes and calm his nerves, that was all.

Scythe felt the smack on the back of his head. He actually was expecting it, although not for the reason she smacked him. “What?! I said you were refined, not a common street walker. It would be sexy for you to wear it, it’s improper for a ruler to dress so informal. You know that I don’t think of you as a street walker Aliana.”

Crossing her arms and glaring at him, Corissa humphs. “Well, I guess I can forgive you.” Looking at the spot Sorcha disappeared from, she goes on to say, “I think the Princess should be allowed to wear whatever she wants. The outfit looks great on her and I don’t see the big deal. Her brother is just being overprotective and probably keeps thinking she’s that same thirteen year old he last saw.” Shaking her head, she takes Scythe’s hand and begins dragging him down the beach to the big boulders Sorcha had occupied before and pushed Scythe down to sit on one. She then proceeded to sit down on his legs, facing him. “You really think I’d look sexy in that? Do you like the black or would you prefer red?”

Off to the side, Saige and Masaharu stood watching the argument. When Sorcha disappeared and the brother took off across the beach and towards the street with Reicha storming off, the silent humans looked at each other and laughed some. They were so confused with everything that had happened so far and were only being dragged along. They were expected to be used as bait and they weren’t sure they really liked the idea. They looked at the new guy who now lay upon the ground, and deciding they had nothing better to do, they went over and assisted the man to his feet. Masaharu wasn’t sure if he liked the man… and Saige, thought he was cute. Holding him up, Saige said to Aldrich, “You okay there, dude?”

Aldrich begrudgingly took Saige’s hand and allowed her to help him to his feet, massaging his jaw a little, “That was hardly anything, I’ve been hit by a lot worse things. Just caught me by surprise is all.” He could already feel the bruise shaping in the form of Keegan’s knuckles, but in a way, he could understand the prince’s anger. But the man was being a little too overprotective in his eyes. Sorcha was eighteen and could make decisions on her own. The faster he could see that, the sooner they would get along again, “Thank you, madam.”

Scythe was dragged off and sat down where she wanted him to. As she sat on his lap he looked at her. “Be careful some of my armor get’s sharp.” As she asked if he thought she’d look sexy in that he smiled. “Of course and you’re right. I don’t care what she wears. Not like She’s the queen right now. You’d look sexy in anything though, or nothing at all if that’s what you chose. However I’ve always been a fan of a nice deep red.” He said with a smile.

Saige stood next to Masaharu again and grinned. “Yeah, you seem like the type of guy who gets into a lot of fights.” Masaharu rolled his eyes and crossed his arms, a disapproving eye rolling along Aldrich’s form. “If I may ask, who are you? You don’t look… Concordian, but then again, you do.”

Corissa touched the tip of one the spikes on his armor, pricking her finger but not caring as a drop of blood oozed down her finger. “You like red, hm? Well, how about this?” Standing up, Corissa snaps her fingers, creating an illusion of her wearing a red, leather outfit almost similar to Sorcha’s except it zipped up the front, smooshing her chest together.

Nazar looked below with distain. He stood on a floating pad of darkness, surveying the area beneath him. Earth was such a weak world. It had taken him not even a day to dessimate with piece of land with his forces. Ireland? He believed it was called. He waited for when the royal, Keegan, as he'd learned, and his other aquaintances had had left the land. He'd watched the battles that had took place with great interest. Rare was it when a breather caught his eye. But the royal was definetly worth observing. He strengthed the spell he placed on Keegan, so that he would keep receiving information on him.

Nazar moved around. Everywhere his undead were thriving. The few humans still " alive " were quickly delt with. The land itself was barren and lifeless, not a soul was left. The tree's, the ground, the water, all dead, devoid of life. He smiled broadly. Soon all of earth would be as this. But that would come later. For now, it was time to return. He rallied up all of his spoils and muttered the incantation Morganna had placed on him. He watched as red runes were etched along the corpse he wore. He wove a large dome of darkness and added his power to her spell. In an instant, he and his spoils were gone. Leaving Ireland dessolate and decayed.


Concordia

Uriel paced along the walls of the castle. Morganna had not returned yet. What was taking her so long? He grumbled about useless woman, but was interupted as a rumbling occured in his stomache. The undead hippo opened it's massive jaws. Nazars body stepped out.

" Master, youve returned " Uriel bowed his large head " Was your trip successful? "

Nazar didnt say anything, Uriel lifted his head and followed his masters gaze. His eyes widened as he saw the mass amount of new corpses moving about the castle. All of them were wearing strange garbs.

" Successful, In a way I suppose " he turned away and walked off " Im going to see the Drow, get our new guest situated "

" Of course master " Uriel bowed his head and waddled off " Oh master. Morganna has not returned yet "

Nazar didnt even break his stride " Unimportant " was all he said before dissapearing into the darkness.

The Castle

Demetrius only infuriated Cleo as she went to strike at him and he not only stopped the attack but spoke down to her. She wished that she could just cut off his head right here and now. Yet it wasn’t that easy and he knew it just as much as she did. There was a whole lot more riding on this fight than simply being physically hurt.

“Well then maybe I can get you to touch yourself? Not like anyone else would” Cleo answered back at him. “Although we would have to be careful you didn’t give yourself frost bite or make yourself any smaller than what you are already” She said, referring to her other ability as she picked up on him using his. In a way Cleo was used to the cold. It wouldn’t be the first time that she had experienced him and his ability.

A grin fixed itself on Cleo's lips as she just glared at him. Her whole body ready for an attack. This time she was going to wait for him.

Demetrius smirked at Cleo's remarks. He always felt the sting of her venomous tongue, or perhaps he was too numb to. For a brief moment, he remembered a conversation he had with Valius years ago. I don't want to pick the rose... Cleo's hard stance made Valius grin with impression, but his eyes quickly darted to Demetrius. He almost shot the man a confused look, but he stopped himself when he remembered how difficult he found it to read Demetrius.

"Cleo..." Demetrius' sword had almost instantly froze the blade Shien had given to Cleo to the floor. Without letting another moment pass, Demetrius shifts and lowers his body in order to elbow Cleo in the gut. "I don't wish to fulfill your fantasies." He responded coldly.

Cleo frowned as her sword became cold and stuck to the ground. There went that weapon! However it wasn’t the only thing Cleo had going for her. She knew how to not only use her body but she still had her abilities. One thing that Demetrius didn’t know though, was that one of her abilities was increasingly weak. Before she had left earth Cleo had to use a lot of her power to make sure her ability over Markell would last the duration of her trip away. It had left that ability drained so she was mostly relying on her other.

As he shifted, Cleo failed to dodge the blow which came straight into contact with her gut. It hurt like hell and caused her to cry out as her arms went to the area, pressing into it to control the pain. “Bastard!” She mumbled as she tried to straighten herself up, knowing there would be a bruise. “And the only fantasy of mine you make it is, is the one where you head is separate from your body” Cleo said as she made branches come up from the ground, ones that would not be so easy for Demetrius to break, and caused them to go quickly up his legs, wrapping around and sucking tighter.

After successfully striking Cleo, Demetrius stood tall, sword in hand, ready to deal what would possibly the final blow of this battle. Cleo's words surprisingly made him hesitant on attacking her. He didn't let his face show that, but Valius could easily tell from his seat. Valius was now gently rubbing his bearded chin as he continued to watch the battle. Demetrius' delay caused him to become entangled in Cleo's magic. Demetrius was slightly impressed that Cleo used something he couldn't just freeze over and walk away from. The branches tightened around his body, but he seemed to try to hold the branches back. His muscles flexed as he clenched his fists. For that man... You'd do anything... Why? Demetrius shut his eyes before he whispered an enchantment. In an instant, Demetrius' armor covered his entire body. The struggle Demetrius had put up before was no longer present anymore as the branches tried to coil around him.

"You should back down now, Cleo. You cannot defeat me. Your father doesn't deserve your worth... Even if it isn't that great." Demetrius said, making Valius look at Demetrius with an appalled look.

"What!?" The appalled king reacted. Demetrius simply and almost easily, broke from the branches, staring at Cleo, waiting on her next movement.

Shien sat in the char indifferently thinking about that Bastard Orthaniel. That is at least until he had heard Cleo’s comment towards Demetrius touching himself. He started laughing so hard he nearly broke the Queen’s Royal throne. However once he calmed down he watched the rest. Demetrius didn’t break his sword, for that Demetrius got to get beat up by Cleo and not him. When Demetrius put on his armor though Shien stood up. That meant he was getting Serious. As much as he loved the idea of Cleo kicking his ass, Shien knew that Cleo was at a disadvantage and didn’t want to see her die.

She had been her only real friend throughout this. “Valius stop this now. I swear if she dies I will bring a hell upon this castle like you will have never wished to have witnessed. The Gods will fear my wrath. Oblivion will be used to describe your crushed hopes and dreams.” His words would fall on deaf ears most likely, but he wasn’t going to sit back and watch his friend die. No matter how much she would hate him for trying to stop it.

Cleo hadn’t expected Demetrius to pause. Normally he was so quick and in control yet he seemed to have paused for even the smallest of moments. This wasn’t like him. She stood there, on guard as he put his armor up and she knew that wasn’t playing fair. It was just like her using her other ability. They both knew each other could do it, yet they didn’t since it wasn’t exactly fair. Then again, none of this is fair.

She watched as her branches were pushed away from his body, something she knew would have happened but had hoped it wouldn’t have been that easy for him. What he said next confused the hell out of her. Her father didn’t deserve her? Demetrius had just said that? Cleo had heard people tell her that in the past and she had never believed them. Yet Demetrius had always told her the opposite, told her exactly what she believed.

Cleo couldn’t respond, she just stood there, a confused expression on her face as she stared at him.

Valius cursed foully under his breath as he stared down at the two paused combatants. He was beginning to figure out why Demetrius summoned his armor. Demetrius was cautious of the reactions of every person in the room of his words. Valius' attention had been pulled by Shien though. The king of Concordia barely gave Shien his full attention.

"Hush up! This battle is not of my control. These two are have chosen to fight, and they shall end it at their own accord." Valius responded as threw his glare toward Demetrius who saw Cleo's immobility and speechlessness. He didn't think his words would stop her, they had never had this effect before.

"I guess you have refused to attack... I won't fight someone who doesn't have the composure to even make a response." Demetrius said before turning from Cleo. He didn't want to say much else to her. Valius was already angered by his words, and he had left Cleo dumbstruck and frozen. Demetrius began making his way out, while being cautious of anything going on behind him.

From somewhere Cleo heard her father and Shien's conversation but she didn't pay it much attention. She knew her father wouldn't be happy about Demetrius' words but there wasn't much she could do about it. Instead she just stared at Demetrius. When he walked away she stood there for a moment or two before she went after him. "Demetrius!" Cleo said as she followed him out into the hallway. "Why did you say that?" She asked, needing to know if he was just messing with her like normal or if it was something else.

Shien looked at Valius and flared. He couldn’t belive this smug ass hole. “You aren’t in control? I wish someone would tell you that. The Gods and Goddesses are angry with you Valius. They don’t like this war, and let me tell you there are some surprises coming up. Better watch your back. There are devils from your past, you’ll regret raising. Keep that in mind and good luck. You’ll need it.” Shien was done with this man. As Demetrius left and Cleo chased after him Shien picked up and tossed the Queen’s throne through the wall.

“When Cleo returns tell her to meet me back at the mirror.” He walked over and ripped his blade from the ice placing it on his back. “Don’t expect my return anytime soon. After all, you aren’t in control.” With that he left the others and jumped out through the hole in the wall. He was done with this side of the war. If Valius wanted to play this way, he’d live to regret it.

Demetrius found himself safe as he easily left the throne room and entered the hallway of the castle. He had heard a loud crash back in the throne room, but ignored it. There was something he could not ignored however. Cleo's call, and her question, which he wished that he didn't have to face. His armor left his body dust being blown from his body by the wind. He turned slightly around, looking from the corner of his eyes.

"Why did I say that? I was only speaking the truth, nothing more... I never understood... Never mind." Demetrius said before continuing to walk, trying to avoid the conversation. He didn't think she would care that much of his words. Then again, he didn't think too much of the consequences when he spoke these words.

Cleo stared at him as he spoke. He was speaking the truth? Then he hadn't meant it every time he spoke about her never being good enough for her father? She shook her head a little, trying to understand how it was only after all of these years that things were coming out between them. When he continued to walk though, Cleo followed him.

"Never understood what?" She said, however she had guessed. It was the same question which many people had asked her over the years. Why did she try so hard to please her father? Most of the time Cleo couldn't answer because she didn't know, or the issue had become so complex that it wasn't an easy answer. However there was one issue which was at the base of it all. "I want to make him proud" Cleo admitted quietly as she stopped walking and stopped following him. She just stood there looking at the back of Demetrius.

Demetrius had wished to leave the conversation with his question possible stopping Cleo in her tracks, but her answer made him stop. He actually turned around to look at her this time. He didn't fully believe her answer until he looked straight into her eyes.

"Proud? This is what I don't get Cleo. You reach out for something that isn't there. I've told you this before, countless times. You will never make your father proud of you. No matter how powerful you become, how well known you become, how praised you become, or how much respect you show for him. I know my words may confused you, but I must tell you what's confined within me." Demetrius said before taking a deep breath. "Every time I've tried to weaken your pride, I've done so to keep you from falling into... I didn't want you to be like everyone else he's ever touched. You don't have to listen to me though. I wouldn't be surprised if you took my words as false. I will say this though... You are worth more than you think, at least that is what I see when I look into your eyes that are always yearning to receive notice. The bright red rose amongst dull brown petals of dead flowers around it." Demetrius said as his own words left him unable to moved from where he stood

His words almost had the girl in tears. It wasn't that he was telling her anything new... but there was simply a different tone in his voice. Before his words would have been spoken in spite, to hurt and upset her. Yet as he spoke them this time, it was as if he truly believed them and truly cared. The two of them had been through a lot. They had a long history of dislike of each other, yet there was also a trust that had built up, or not quite a trust but they knew one another. His words actually... they actually touched her in a way no one else’s ever had. "I'm not... It's easy for you, you are everything he wanted. You are a boy" Cleo said quietly. "I know I can’t give him that, and that I will never be truly good enough. But maybe I can make him proud of me in my own way... I don’t know. I know it sounds stupid but how can I be worth anything if my own father thinks I am no good?" Cleo spoke, honestly and quietly. It was weird talking to him like this but for some reason it was easy.

Demetrius momentarily wished that Cleo hadn't been raised to deal with the burden Valius, and possibly the gods cursed her with. Demetrius was trying so hard not to shake his head at her words, but his will hadn't been strong enough to push back what he felt. Of all the people to tell Cleo these words, he never knew it would be himself.

"First... You should know better than to believe that he couldn't have just accepted you the way you are. Why do you defend his ideals? Do you not understand what kind of man Valius is? Your father is wrong if he thinks you're no good. Your father is blind if he can't see what is right in front of his eyes. You are worth something Cleo... are you not listening?" Demetrius said the last bit nonchalantly with a smirk. For some reason, he wanted to see her smile.

Cleo had to restrain herself as he spoke so poorly of her father. She felt like slapping him. It wouldn't be the first time she had done it, but it had never ended well so she kept her arms at her side. She didn't agree with anything he had said. Well, didn't was the wrong word. It was more that she couldn't. Her whole life had been based around trying to please her father... if what Demetrius and others were telling her was true, then her whole life had been based on nothing. When he asked if she wasn't listening Cleo focused on him a little more. "Listening and agreeing are not the same thing" She said with a small smile, the smile vanishing quickly. "He is my father though Demetrius, he is family. What am I meant to do? Just tell him to go get screwed?" Cleo asked. Things were just so complicated, and this whole conversation was catching her off guard since he wasn't the person she expected to be talking to about this. Maybe that is what made it more meaningful.

Demetrius shook his head once more as he heard Cleo's response. He didn't understand her bond to Valius, but he knew that was mostly because he hadn't been familiar with that bond in so long.

"I'm not forcing you against your father. I just want you to stop purely basing your life on pleasing him. He doesn't deserve that much from you. I wish I could truly show you how much your worth..." Demetrius paused as he realized what came out of his mouth. He shook his head quickly, attempting to deny his own statement. "I apologize... That cam out wrong. I..." Demetrius found himself stumbling over his own words as he tried to re-piece that last sentence. "I wish..." Demetrius made his eyes leave hers and look just at her feet.

Cleo listened to him, her eyes sceptical of his words. She had no idea how to base her life around something else when everything she had done since that time when Demetrius had first been brought into her home had been to prove herself... it would be like re-writing the whole purpose of her life. The last sentence out of his mouth though shocked her as she watched him stumbling over it. "You... you think I am worth something?" Cleo asked, her voice a whisper. He had been saying it almost the whole way through this conversation but it wasn't until now that Cleo really picked up on it. Her eyes studied him, trying to understand but he wouldn't look up from the ground. "But... you don’t like me" She stated, as if that was the only feeling he could have towards her.

Earth: Sorcha pays "visit" to Markell

Reappearing, Sorcha stood at the end of a dock, overlooking the ocean and watching the waves as they rolled toward the shore. They crashed against the edge of the dock, splashing water over and onto her shoes. It was a beautiful sight, but she couldn’t help but think about Concordia and her beautiful oceans. They sparkled more than this ocean, even with the moon shining down upon it. Sighing softly, she sits down, allowing her legs to dangle over the edge and become drenched in the salty water. It felt good and so she didn’t mind; after all, the leather did protect her from the chilliness of it. Smiling, she lies down on her back and closes her eyes, hands laced together and resting on her stomach. She came here for a purpose and it was time to begin…

“Concordia, Goddess of All, grant me the power to reach across a great distance. I must find my brother, Markell, and contact him.” As she whispered those soft words, she felt a warmth of energy as they were carried away by the wind. She could feel the Goddesses’ reassuring hands, though invisible, on her cheeks. Sorcha was soon glowing with radiant energy, so strong, and filled with divine power. Mentally, she was flying over the ocean at rapid speed, until eventually, she reached land, but continued flying over, the world passing by her in a blur. She came to a sudden stop at some tavern. She could feel Markell’s presence here. What was her brother doing inside a tavern? He used to hate these things… but then she remembered: he wouldn’t know that. With a soft sigh, she enters the establishment and looks for him.

Markell had been going about his business since Krystal left. He wasn't all that happy that she wasn't there, even though he could handle things on his own. He did miss Krystal, even if she didn't love him. He was at the kitchen at this point, just making something to eat. The Pub was nearly empty so he didn't really have much to do. He'd already finished the stock work and all that stuff. Now he just sat around wishing that there was someone he could just talk to. He did wonder where Jason had gone too, he hadn't show up again yet. He hoped he didn't scare the lad off.

Not caring about anything else, Sorcha makes her way into the kitchen. She was quite ecstatic to find Markell there and almost ran up to him to wrap her arms tightly about his waist but remembered, he could not see her. He wouldn’t even know who she was. Instead, she walked closer till she stood right in front of him. He would be able to hear her, though…. “Markell…” It was nothing but a soft whisper, and by now, he should be able to sense her presence.

Markell was cooking something on the stove when that feeling returned to him. So familiar, yet so cold and eriee. He tried to shake it off and just pretend nothing was there. Why was he feeling this though? Had there been some spirit he did not remember that was visiting him? Did such a thing as ghosts exist? He just didn't know. He did go to stir the pan on the stove and then he really got freaked out. Something called out to him... By name. Although it wasn't his name. Was this ghost mistaking him for someone else? Maybe it was something else entirely. He dropped the pan on the floor and looked around as a few knives also circled around him in mid air. "I don't know any Markell. Show yourself, whoever you may be."

She giggled softly, noticing the panicked look on his face. Moving closer, she looks at the knives and smirks. Did he think to stab her? A ghost? She always thought her eldest was a little odd at times. Smiling, though, she raises a hand and places it on his shoulder; he’d be able to feel the light weight. “Markell, I am here to warn you.” Her face serious now, she continues, “You are in grave danger. You must beware of the ones closest to you; for they are untrustworthy.”

Markell looked around, not knowing what to do. "Oh, and who are you to say? Some eerie spirit that is here to screw with me? I think I shall take my chances." At this point he didn't realize that the potholder he was using, now layed on the stove. It was heating up quick and if not taken care of soon, would start a fire.

Sorcha smiled. “A spirit? Yes, I suppose you can say I am a spirit of some sort. Though, you must be wary of the danger ahead. You must keep an open mind and keep both eyes opened; be prepared. The danger will soon be upon you; but, alas, aide will soon arrive. Your sister and two brothers will be here to rescue you.” She debated on whether or not to say who she was but had decided against it. He was already in disbelief.

Markell was really starting to get upset. He still didn't believe any of this and was ready to get someone back for this prank. "Danger, sure. I'll buy that. I'm just someone who owns a pub, what danger could possibly come? I have no brothers or sisters. Whoever is pulling this prank, you got me. Come out and show yourself so I know who I need to get back."

She sighed heavily and shook her head. She knew this would happen and had come prepared to make him believe she was actually there. She guessed by the word ‘prank’ and the context of it, she supposed it meant ‘jest’. She moved even closer to him till her hands were close to lie on his shoulders. Standing on tip toe, she kisses his cheek. The touch was feather soft. “Does that feel like I am jesting with you, Markell?”

Markell stood there still unsure of what was going on. He just couldn't believe this, it was madness. "I don't know this Markell whomever you may be spirit. Now Begone with you for your false words, fall on deaf ears." What was happening? Was it possible that there was some spirit there?

"You do know Markell, you just do not remember him. You will find out soon enough that Markell IS you." She could feel her body becoming weak. This used a great amount of energy and even with Concordia's help, there was so much Sorcha's body could handle. Sighing, she moves away from him. "I must be leaving soon. Please, heed my words and stay safe. Danger has its eye on you."

Markell was stunned. Great not only was a spirit visiting him, but it was completely insane. "Yeah sure... Whatever crazy spirit I'll..." Just then he turned to see part of the kitchen ablaze. His eyes bugged out. "Oh no." He exclaimed as he ran for the fire extinguisher ignoring the crazy spirit that was in the room speaking of a mistaken identity.

Before she started to fade away from the kitchen, she saw the fire and gasped. Oh no! What had she done? She shouldn't have distracted Markell while he was cooking in the kitchen. She could do nothing but stand there and watch as he grabbed a red cylinder and then began spraying white foam on the flames.

Markell tried to put out all the flames, but they were spreading to fast. in moments the kitchen was ablaze. Luckily one of the patrons smelled the smoke and came back to help grabbing a second fire extinguisher. They had beaten the fire but not quick enough. The kitchen was destroyed. Markell just sighed. "Thank you for the help. For you, drinks are on the house for the next week." The man smiled and nodded before leaving. Markell walked out and poured himself a nice tall glass of whiskey. He then walked back over to the well done kitchen. "What have I done? Krystal will be so upset with me...."

Frozen, she stood off to the side. Her body was weakening, she could feel it. Luckily, she was already lying down on the dock and would not fall once the spell was broken. She watched helplessly as a patron assisted Markell in distinguishing the fire. Once it was out, she looked upon the kitchen with great sadness. Her voice sounded weak as she said to him, "I am sorry for having distracted you, Markell." Hearing the name 'Krystal' suddenly had her attention. Was this Markell's Watcher? If so, she must warn him. "Markell, before I leave.." She paused having noticed that her legs were now invisible. She was slowly beginning to disappear and return back to her physical state. No! She had to warn him first... "Markell, please beware of this Krystal. She may not be who she seems."

Her hips and stomach were now gone. She hurried even more. “Also, beware of a flying man named Vann. He intends to kill you…” She had barely gotten the words when she completely disappeared from the tavern. She woke up not too long ago back at the dock, her eyes opening and a gasp of air escaping her lungs. She felt another presence and turned her head slowly to find that Taran was sitting beside her. She smiled softly and reached out a weakened hand. “Taran… You came back…“ She whispered weakly before darkness consumed her. She’d used up all of her energy and none remained.

Zack was getting upset now. The spirit apologized and kept warning him. No she was warning this Markell. "Krystal is the woman I love with all my heart. She would never hurt me dear spirit. As far as a flying man goes, I will keep my eye out. Whatever you say." He didn't believe her. Who would, although in his mind there would be doubt now. Finally it seemed the spirit had gone away. He stood there and chugged the whiskey down. He stared into the burned kitchen and tossed the glass against the wall. "Damn it all."

Dock: Tranquility

Taran had been watching the waves crash into the rocks along the shore, and occasionally looked up at the stars that were plentiful in the moonless sky. Taran started humming a song he once heard as a child. It was of a gentle tune that he always heard whenever he felt at ease. When Sorcha ended her ritual, and spoke his name, Taran's eyes darted toward her closing eyes. Concern showed on his face, but he didn't seem to panic.

"You're working too hard sis..." Taran said, unaware of how his time on Earth had altered his speech. He looked down at her for a while before setting his sword over his crossed legs. He held onto his weapon, before shutting his eyes and entering a state of meditation. It wasn't long until small birds and many other animals started surrounding him.

She remained unconscious for awhile until her eyes fluttered open finally and opened to find a starry night staring back at her. The moon was high up in the sky and she thought it quite beautiful and she forgot exactly why she was laying under the stars. It felt almost as if she was back on Concordia without a care in the world. It was the crashing of the waves that brought it all back to her with a sickening jerk of her stomach. She still felt weak and made an effort to sit up but to no avail. Sighing, she turns her head to one side then the other and blinks to find Taran sitting there deep in a meditative state and his hands holding his weapon. She remembered now, just before passing out, seeing him there. Smiling softly, she draws up the energy somewhere to reach a hand over and touch his knee. "Taran, I have missed you."

The Castle... and then Australia

Cleo's words coming from her bewildered state made Demetrius' eyes pick up from the floor and stared straight into Cleo's. His eyes weren't hard and cold, but purely the opposite. His words... They weren't reaching like he wanted them to. He asked himself why this couldn't be so simple, and nearly thought of cursing Cytheria. Demetrius didn't say anything after what Cleo's last response; he just closed the distance between the two in a few steps.

"Why can't you keep quiet and listen?" Demetrius spoke before lean in to kiss Cleo. Surprisingly, an unusual warmth escaped his body

Cleo continued to look at Demetrius with a confused expression as he stepped towards her. None of this was making sense to her. The two of them had a history... a colourful and violent history. Why would he care? He didn't like her; he had made that clear over and over again. When he spoke, Cleo was about to say something in her defence to not listening when his lips softly pressed against hers.

Her whole body froze against his. What was he doing? He was kissing her! So many thoughts were running through her mind. It caught her completely off guard. Instinctively she pushed back from him a little, her hands resting on his naked chest. Cleo didn’t know what to think and this was happening quickly.

Cleo’s eyes sought out his, looking deep into them as she searched for that cold expression that was often there. It was nowhere to be found. She tried to think of how she felt about him. Cleo for so long had hated Demetrius, they had been rivals. Did she like him? Maybe... okay, a little more than maybe. Beneath the outward hatred the two of them had for one another, Cleo had liked him. With a soft expression on her own face, Cleo closed the distance she had just created between the two of them and kissed him. This time her lips were no longer frozen but completely responsive to his.

When Cleo had pushed him back, all Demetrius could think was, he failed. He wouldn't have been surprised if Cleo pushed him away and slapped him across the face, or worse. She looked right into his eyes with were her brown eyes. She looked as if she was waiting for something, something that was meant to definitely come. He waited as well, until her face softened and her lips embraced his own. He wanted to ask himself 'What the hell was he doing?' That didn't matter to him though. He felt as if he had missing something so great for so long. He was truly tasting passion for the first time in his life. His sword had clanked to the floor as both his hands were placed at Cleo's waist. He guided her body until her back was against the walls of the hallway. He found Cleo's lips so soft against his own, which made it even harder for him to do what he was thinking of next. He slowly pulled away Cleo before staring down the hallway at the flames spreading through the castle. Pyrus had either gotten the memo, or he was just being his psychotic self. His eyes looked back into Cleo's, almost ready to kiss her again. He still had his hands firm on her waist. He had finally picked the rose... He grabbed it without the thorns pricking him. His hands fit perfectly around the stem.

"We can't do this... At least not now. You and I both know we have our duties." Demetrius said. He wouldn't let her go, not until he received what he was looking for.

Cleo was so caught up in what was happening that she didn’t even care or notice what was going on around her. Her father could have been standing only a metre away from them and she still probably wouldn’t have noticed. This kiss was unlike anything she had ever experienced before, and there had certainly been men before. Before today she had thought that the intimate moments she shared with Markell were the best it was ever going to be. Yet Demetrius made all of that look like child’s play as their bodies pressed and yearned up against one another’s.

His body easily positioned hers against the wall as she melted up against him. For once his body wasn’t cold and as her hands rested on his shoulder blades she could feel the heat coming from his skin. Cleo sighed softly into the kiss as they let their emotions get the better of them. Her will power was nothing compared to his though as he was finally the one to break the kiss. Cleo would have quite happily continued with this for the next couple of hours.

As he spoke though, Cleo’s eyes dropped away from his as she looked at the ground. He was right and was certainly the voice of reason in this situation. This wasn’t the time or the place for them to be doing this. She had to go back to Markell in a few minutes time. “So where does that leave us?” Cleo asked tentatively, her eyes still not coming up to meet his. Were they just meant to forget what had just happened?

Demetrius watched Cleo's eyes drop to the floor, and with swiftness, his hand held her chin up, so her eyes could look into his own. He didn't like her look of doubt. Getting so close to her had given him the chance to see her at her weakest, but unlike an enemy who would treasure these weak moments, he found them to be bothering. He didn't want to see her sorrow, not after he had seen the full extent of it. He wanted to answer Cleo's question, but he wanted to answer it right.

"I hope you don't think this will be forgotten. You are the only person to have ever made me feel the way I just felt. I finally understand the person I have always been most interested in. I finally understand someone I wish to... I will let you guess the next word." Demetrius said with a smirk before planting a kiss on her lips once more. With the pull away of his lips, also came his hands in unison. He didn't enjoy it, but he had to let her go.

Reluctantly Cleo allowed Demetrius to draw her face back up. Never before had she felt so vulnerable and exposed. She had revealed to him exactly how she felt and it was probably safe to say that he was the person who knew the most about her, the real her. It made her feel both uncomfortable and safe at the same time, like she finally had someone she could confide in even if the prospect terrified her.

Looking into his eyes she listened to him. His words held no trace of the coldness that was normally there and instead were warm and inviting. The way he spoke though, it was as if he had always been interested in her like this. It was a new idea to Cleo, and was making her second guess everything that had happened between them.

A soft blush rose in her cheeks as he finished off with a teasing smirk. Cleo returned the kiss as she felt him pulling away from her. She wasn’t ready to let go of him yet but she knew that she didn’t really have a choice. They both had places to be and things to do. Life wasn’t all that simple. One prospect did startle her though. How many years would it be before the two of them even got to see each other?

“I don’t want to go... I might not see you for another five years” Cleo admitted as she leant back against the wall, giving Demetrius some space since he had pulled away.

Demetrius had thought everything was fine. He felt like all his burdens were lifted from him. Just like that though, Demetrius felt an even greater weight crash down upon him as he looked at Cleo when she spoke. Her words were of truth; a truth that Demetrius did not wish to face. He let out a sigh as he couldn't stand to think of waiting five years after what had just happened. Cleo needed to go to Earth where she guarded one of the princes of Concordia, and Demetrius needed to rule over the North. The petals were already falling from the rose he had picked. Was he just going to let it die in his hands? No, he'd make the best of what time he'd have left.

"Then let us complete those five years with the little time we have left. I can't promise that we'll see one another again, but I won't allow us to depart until I have given you all that I have." Demetrius said. I will preserve the rose that signifies my feelings for you, no matter how much time passes. Even if I must freeze it solid into my hand that holds it so delicately. Demetrius moved smoothly toward Cleo, and put her hands in his own. He gently led her, walking backwards through and out of the halls of the castle. He didn't let his eyes leave her for more than five seconds, only looking away to see the path behind him. They had only been outside for a short moment before they reached it. Castle Animus. It may have been dark and ominous from the outside, but the inside of the castle didn't compare. "Keep your eyes on me Cleo." Demetrius said as he noticed the grotesque figures and designs on the new castles walls. You could call it intuition, but Demetrius managed to back into a door that led to an empty room. In the room, was a soft bed; possibly the one Shien was promised for his deeds. Demetrius smiled as the door slowly shut itself behind them. With both his hands, he pulled her close to kiss her. Demetrius then turned Cleo's back toward the bed, and back her up slowly into it. His hands never left hers as his fingers intertwined with them. His lips never left hers as pressed them tenderly against them. He wished he could never leave her, but sadly in the end, he had to see her go.

Cleo was more than happy when he stated that she wouldn’t need to go right away. The idea of leaving so soon after she had found out that Demetrius had feelings for her didn’t seem all too appealing. He was right though, they needed to make the most of the time they had together right now. When he mentioned giving her everything he had, Cleo knew exactly where this was going. It made her both anxious and excited at the same time. It was a big thing, yet she wasn’t going to turn away from it. If it was anything like the kiss they had just shared then she would be more than happy.

As he walked backwards Cleo kept her eyes looking into his beautiful blue eyes as she stepped with him. A grin was fixed on her face at the thought of what the two of them were about to do. If someone had told her she would have been doing this an hour ago she would have told them to go to hell, she wouldn’t have touched him with a ten foot pole. Yet here she was, about to give herself completely to him.

When Demetrius told her to keep her eyes on him she was tempted to look around just to spite him. Yet there was something about the concern in his voice that made her do exactly what he said. Soon enough though he was bring them into a room which had what looked like a comfortable bed in the middle. One minute they were standing in the room in each other’s embrace kissing and the next she was face up on the bed with his body on top of hers. Their lips connecting over and over again in passionate kisses as they explored one another’s bodies for the first time.

It was about an hour later when Cleo reluctantly dragged her naked body out of the bed, picking up her underwear as she began to get redressed. It had been amazing. She didn’t want to go but she knew that she had to. “That was... well it was amazing, thanks” Cleo said as she wiggled into her jeans, smiling back over at Demetrius as he lay in the bed under the covers. Picking up her shirt she wondered over to the side of the bed near Demetrius, leaning down and kissing him once more. “I really wish I didn’t have to go and we could do round two”


For Demetrius, the full physical embrace of Cleo's body was something he found to be magnificent. He let himself lay naked, with everything from his waist down underneath the covers. He watched as Cleo got dressed, but there was no hint of happiness on his face. Demetrius knew what was coming next, and he was prepared to face it. After gazing at Cleo for a moment, Demetrius grabbed his own clothes in order to get dressed as well. He was troubled, but he didn't want to say anything to hint at how he currently felt. Before he could get off of the bed, or even think of doing so, Cleo's lips met his once again.

"Round two? I don't know if I would be able to handle the heat." Demetrius said as his hand reached underneath her shirt and on her stomach. As a funny joke, he made his hand cold as ice. His lips were against hers, but he was sure she would pull back with a jolt.

Cleo was actually hopefully of being lured back into bed with his hands, even despite him saying that he didn’t know if he would be able to handle it. It rubbed softly under her clothing against her warm skin as she smiled into the kiss. Her own arms wrapping around him to keep him close. That was until she felt the ice cold touch of his hand on her stomach which caused chills to run down her spine, a small shriek to escape her lips and for her body to jerk backwards away from him. All of that happened so quickly but as Cleo stood there looking at him, she realised that he had just been messing around with her.

Shaking her head, Cleo couldn’t help but mumble “Jerk...” Her hands now moving to the area which he had frozen rubbing against it to try and warm it up. A smile was fixed on her face the whole time, and the word spoken with love instead of venom. Cleo then walked to a small mirror on the side of the room and ran her fingers through her hair in an attempt to make it look as if she hadn’t just been rolling around in the sheets. Thankfully her hair cooperated.

Upon finishing this simple task the smile slipped from her face. Cleo knew what was coming next. She didn’t want it to but there was no stopping it. When it came down to it, Cleo would do what her father wanted her to do and for that she had to go back to earth.

Demetrius let out a small low laugh as Cleo jumped back from his hand. He stood up with smile on his face, feeling a bit accomplished at what he had done. As the smile slipped from Cleo's face, a look of concern crossed his face for a split second before realizing what would have caused it. He wrapped his arm around her, and held her close while walking toward the door.

"Let's go, you almost look perfect." Demetrius said before looking at Cleo, awaiting her response to his words. They had just walked out of the room, and entered the dark halls of the new castle.

Cleo forced a small smile to her lips as he wrapped his arm around her and began walking towards the door. "Almost?" She said, questioning his choice of words and a teasing tone in her voice. She really didn't want to leave and the smile which she had forced slipped away from her face. Cleo could tell that Demetrius was feeling the same as her; however he seemed better at putting on a brave face.

As they walked outside into the dark hallway Cleo looked around at the walls. "Wow..." She mumbled as her eyes scanned the dark scenes which were depicted there. It was clear now why Demetrius had asked her to keep her eyes on him when they had walked in. Her mood was very quickly dropping due to the pictures surrounding them and the knowledge that she was leaving.

Demetrius wanted to try his best to keep Cleo's eyes off of the walls of the castle. He didn't know what any of them meant, but felt a dark presence from just looking at them. He held her tighter, so she would notice him; he wanted her to stop looking at the walls.

“Yes... almost. You only have to do one thing to reach perfection in my eyes." Demetrius said before noticing a feeling of warmth in his free hand. He down at it quickly, to find nothing wrong with it. Shaking his current thoughts away, he returned to speaking to Cleo as they nearly exited the castle. "All you have to do is smile. Smile like you mean it, and you are at the prime of perfection." Demetrius said with a smile, trying to grab her full attention.

As Cleo felt Demetrius’ arm tighten around her a little she looked up at him, her attention being taken away from the walls which were surrounding her. It was probably a good thing since they were already sending shivers down her spine. She didn’t understand even of the images and Cleo had no desire to.

When Demetrius spoke to her she looked at him with a confused expression. What was it that she had to do to be perfect? Cleo didn’t think of herself at being anywhere near perfect but she did want to know what he thought of as being her fault. If she could Cleo would change it in an instant. For him, she wanted to be perfect. Relief filled her when he mentioned that all she had to do was smile. At least it wasn’t something like get her breasts enlarged or change the colour of her hair. Yet it was also something that she found incapable of doing at the present moment.


“How can I smile when I am about to leave you?” Cleo asked as she leant over and kissed him softly. She didn’t really have the energy to bring a smile to her face and she knew that it wouldn’t be a real smile. “Say you will come with me and I will smile” She said, her voice hopeful but also knowing that it was false hope. He couldn’t go with her just as much as she couldn’t stay with him.

Cleo's first question made Demetrius' smile vanish from his face. When she had kissed him, they had just exited the ominous castle. Demetrius was glad that he didn't need to dwell in such a place. He was going to try to comfort her, but her next question literally stopped him in his tracks. He didn't know what to say.

"Cleo... I wish I could lie for perfection, but I can't. I won't." Demetrius kissed Cleo as softly as she had just done seconds ago. "I guess I must wait..." Demetrius said before looking up at the huge entrance of the castle. A smile was shown on Demetrius' face as the wind blew north.

Cleo watched the effect her question had on him. It was as if he really hadn’t expected her to ask if he would come with her. She wished that he could. She could both do her job and be with Demetrius. Maybe even sneak off and spend time with him when Zack was busy. It would be possible. Yet she knew that Demetrius’ job was just as important as her own. They all had their roles to play.

When Demetrius confirmed that he wouldn’t be going with her she sighed, a frown settling on her face as he kissed her lightly. “I’m sorry” She mumbled. Cleo wished she could have smiled for him but there wasn’t much for her to smile about. She was leaving him and there was no positive that could be drawn from that.

“Promise me... promise me you won’t forget me” Cleo said to Demetrius as she wrapped her arms around him in what would be their last embrace before they had to go their separate ways. It could be years before they saw one another again and she didn’t want him to forget what they had done and what they had become to one another. Her eyes then turned to look over at the doors, knowing she had to go. It couldn’t be put off for much longer.

Demetrius could do nothing but hold Cleo in his arms. He didn't know when he would see her again, or when he would hold her again. This could possibly be their last moment together, but Demetrius' mind never explored that possibility.

"I promise... As long as I remember that roses bloom red, I will remember the one woman I love." Demetrius said passionately.

His words almost made Cleo cry as he spoke so passionately about loving her and never forgetting. They both knew that it could be years before they saw each other again and there was nothing that could lessen the pain of the departure which was about to happen. “I love you” Cleo said as she pressed her lips to his, the kiss firm but loving. Her eyes looked into his, seeing the love she felt mimicked there in his deep blue eyes.
After holding the kiss for a minute or two, Cleo slipped away from his arms. “Goodbye Demetrius” Cleo said in a whisper, the words hard for her to speak but they were words that must be said. Slowly she turned away from him and took a few steps towards the big wooden doors that led inside to the castle. Opening the door, Cleo took one final glance back at the man she loved, a soft smile on her lips.

Demetrius hadn't expected Cleo to say she loved him as well. Demetrius held Cleo close to his body as the two embraced in a kiss. Other than love, Demetrius felt something else. It was connected with the way he felt for Cleo, but didn't seem to surface. His left hand was warm against Cleo's back. He really wanted round two at the moment, but there was no way that could happen, at least not now. Just when things for the two reached a climax, Cleo left his arms with the words that pierced him deeper than any blade. As she walked toward the castle doors, he felt himself getting colder and colder. He could possibly frostbite anything that came into contact with him. He had been so cold until Cleo turned back, with her smile shown to him. The coldness was gone.

"Goodbye." Demetrius said softly before a smile seemed to make its way on his face as he saw what he called perfection.

Cleo smiled at him for a moment or two longer before stepping inside the castle and letting the door slam closed behind her. Every single part of her body wanted to go running back outside to Demetrius, to wrap her arms around him and loose herself in his kiss. Yet her mind forced herself to move forward. They both had things to do and as much as this was hurting it had to be done. There would be time for tears later she told herself.

This was breaking her heart yet Cleo had to stay positive. She would see Demetrius again... someday.

Moving through the castle she headed towards where she had arrived. Cleo had guessed that it would be where Shien would be waiting for her. It was a guess but it was lucky for Cleo, that guess turned out correct. Upon entering the room, Cleo spotted Shien. "Hey..." She said blushing a little. "I'm sorry that I took so long. Forgot how much I love this place" Cleo said with a smile. For some reason she couldn't get the smile off her face. Deep down she knew that she needed to get the smile and the 'I have just had sex' look off her face before she got home. She needed to slip back into her role as the fiancé to the prince.

Shien was sitting for what seemed like an hour waiting for Cleo to return to him. He had already placed the enchanted jacket back on and just stood by the mirror. When she finally did, she had an unnatural smile on her face. Her and Demetrius? He didn't want to think about it really. "This place. Sure." In the end he really didn't care what she did. He just looked at her and stood up holding the talisman from earlier. "You have brought my gun with you, have you not?" He just wanted to make sure, since he wasn't returning to Concordia soon, maybe never again. He'd let Cleo know after they were through the portal, no need to just yet.

"Yep" Cleo said as she handed him his things. "Thanks for letting me use them before" She replied. It had actually meant a lot t her that he had let her use them in her fight against Demetrius. Most people wouldn't have let her and told her to find her own... it was just something about people being protective of their weapons. "Ready to go back to earth?" Cleo asked with a sigh. She didn't want to go, but despite what Demetrius had said, making her father happy was something she still strived to do.

Shien put his effects away and just nodded. "Don't mention it. I really would've wished you decided to kick his ass though. It would've been more entertaining." He really didn't want to see her fight just as any friend wouldn't want. However if she was going to, may as well beat some ass. "Yes I'm ready. Hold onto me." He said as he waited for her to hold on. Then he took them both through the portal they appeared somewhere near where they left. Shien stood there for a moment. "We left that boy behind." He shrugged and took a few steps forward. "I have something I need to ask you Cleo...."

Cleo laughed a little at the idea of her kicking Demetrius' ass. It was possible that she could have done it, but looking back now she was glad that she didn't. When he asked her to hold onto him she nodded and reached out to take hold of his arm. Once she was holding him the two of them were teleported back near where they had left. Cleo wished she didn't have to be back here but... well she didn’t' have a choice. When Shien spoke she looked at him. "What is it?" In the mean time she had ignored the statement about the boy. His fate was sealed. As she waited for an answer she reached down to her bags which had also been brought back and began looking for a different shirt... she couldn't leave and show up in the same clothes.

Shien turned around and looked into her eyes. "While you were fighting with Demetrius, I had an interesting visit. The God of Wisdom Orthaniel told me what has been happening on Earth." He paused there and looked back towards the direction of the pub. "Come we will talk as we get back. He's had too much time alone as it is."

Cleo's eyes opened wide as he mentioned having too much time on his own. "What is going on?" She asked as she very quickly slipped out of her shirt and replaced it with a red one. It would help for the cover story. Then she packed up her bag and began to follow Shien towards town and the pub.

Shien stayed silent for a little bit while they neared the town. He was thinking on how to say this. "The princess is making good time. Taran and Keegan both have regained their memories, leaving just Markell. Vann has failed in killing either, although I can't blame him with who's allied themselves with them. However in any case, Vann is on his way here. Wanna guess why that would be?"

Cleo's face paled a little. This was all happening. "He wants to kill him..." Cleo said quietly. This had been the day which she had been dreading. She sighed a little. "Maybe it is for the best..." Cleo said, thinking that maybe at least this way she wouldn't have to kill him herself. However she didn't want Markell to die, he was a good man.

Shien kept walking as they were getting nearer to the pub. That was when she said it. For the best? "What makes you say it's for the best? Don't tell me your still willing to be Daddy's little girl and follow his wishes. I'm not. I'm not even returning to Concordia for a while if ever. The League was never really my thing. Are you seriously saying that I can easily tell them to fuck off, but you still wanna follow Daddy?"

Cleo turned to face him with shock. People were always saying she was her daddies little girl but Cleo never saw it. For that to happen he would have had to have shown his love for her. Maybe if her childhood had been different she might not have sought out his love but she did. She wanted it more than anything. "It's complicated!" Cleo said defensively. "He is my father. I can’t just turn my back on him" She said as she continued to walk. "And this is none of your business" She said, trying to get him to drop the subject.

Shien stopped in place. That was it he couldn't take her attitude anymore. He turned around and backhanded her across the right side of her face. "He doesn’t care what you do Cleo! You wanna know the truth? You'll never be good enough if his eyes. No one ever will be. Don't you see? He thinks he's better then everyone and no one will ever be up to the standards that you dream he'll accept you with. Just stop trying and let him go fuck himself because he doesn't deserve anything he has! If you don't believe me, ask Demetrius. Or how about you ask Scythe. I'm sure either one of them will tell you the same. It's time your father realized that he isn't a god and he will be taught that lesson. I'm sure of it." Shien was yelling at times but he couldn't take it. Why couldn't she see that he was no good for her?


Cleo was shocked when Shien backhanded her across the face. The stinging sensation causing her to go still as she just stared at Shien. He yelled at her as she felt like she could have cried, the happy feeling from before gone. Deep down somewhere she knew what he was saying was true. She would never be good enough and Demetrius had also tried not that long ago to tell her this. "Don’t you dare talk about my father like that" Cleo said, yelling back at him as a red mark appeared on the side of her face where he had hit her. "And I am not going to give up. One day I will make him proud of me" Cleo said as the tears began to form. She then turned away from Shien and began to walk back towards the pub.

Shien looked at her and saw she was about to cry. He didn't want to make her cry, but she had to learn this eventually. If normal words wouldn't work, then he had to try something else. Something more. He ran after her. "Don't run from me. We aren't done yet Cle.... Krystal" he corrected himself now that they were in town.

Markell was outside panicking but awaiting Krystal's return at the same time. That was when he noticed her running back at him. Something was wrong though. She was crying? Lee was running after her. Zack ran towards Krystal. "What's wrong?" He called out as Lee kept coming. He looked at him and then noticed the mark on Krystal's face. Before he knew is Shien was pinned against a tree by an invisible force. "Krystal, what happened?"

Cleo wasn't going to stop. She didn't want to talk about this, especially not now. She had other things on her mind, she had been happy. And now she was upset and confused and just wanted to curl up and cry. For a moment Cleo had forgotten that Markell would be there, that was until he came running over to meet her. Cleo's eyes opened wide as she watched Shien being pushed up against a tree, Markell's power! This wasn't happening. Cleo reached out and took hold of Markell. "It's okay... I'm fine. We just got into an argument. I hit him first" Cleo said, trying to get him to calm down and hoping that he wouldn't notice what he had done. "Please... calm down" She said kissing his cheek softly.

Shien glared at the two. Well if he couldn't convince Cleo with a slap, perhaps there was a way to get her to convince herself on how foolish her father was.

Zack held onto Krystal, but was clearly not buying her story. "I don't care who hit who first. He has no right to have touched you. Look at you. Your cheek has his handprint on it and you’re crying your eyes out. I will deal with him don't worry. You sit down; just don't go in the kitchen. I'll explain in a bit."

Krystal looked at Zack with a confused and scared expression. "Zack please... just leave him alone. I'm fine I promise" She said as she held onto him more to just keep him away from Shien. Krystal didn't doubt Shien's ability to defend himself but she didn't want powers exposed. "Please... just let him be" Krystal said, using her ability to try and make Zack leave him alone. It was a last resort and it was draining her by the second. Her powers were not used to being used so much in one day.

Zack felt the want to go after Lee just disappeared. "Yeah you’re right Krystal. I have something to tell you though...." He was nervous to tell her, but he knew he had too. "There was an accident. The pub for the most part is fine. It's just the kitchen... It's kinda, char broiled...."

Shien was released from Markell's grip as he talked with Krystal. He walked over towards the pub, as Zack explained things to Krystal. Shien began to gather his lightning energy out of their sight. He had one last plan to convince Cleo.

Krystal glanced over at Shien as he was released from the tree. She was glad that at least to some degree, Zack hadn’t noticed what had happened and what he was doing. Her attention then turned back to Zack as he spoke about having to tell her something. This instantly made her worry. It wasn’t often that she saw him nervous like this. On occasion he had tried to trick her and make her worry about things, but she usually saw right through it. This time he was genuinely nervous.

A worried look appeared on her face when he mentioned the pub. What had he done? Krystal was shocked to hear that something had gone wrong in the kitchen. “What?” She said as she shook her head at him and then went running past him towards the pub. Walking inside she quickly went out the back, ignoring the few people who were in there. Once she reached the kitchen she sighed. It was a mess and there was little chance of just being able to tidy it up. He had destroyed it.



Zack followed Krystal into the back as she looked around the burned kitchen. "I didn't mean to burn it down. It's.... It's.... Complicated. I really can't explain it, it was just an accident. Insurance will cover it, I've already called. Can you forgive me?"

Meanwhile outside Shien removed the enchanted clothes. Markell would find out about his past soon enough anyway. Shien wasn't going to hold back. Once Markell was down he'd make it Cleo's choice. Let her play the hand of Halikair.

Krystal just wondered around the kitchen taking in the burnt surroundings as Zack spoke about not being able to explain it. What was really upsetting her was what if Zack had been caught in the fire? It was her job to watch over him and she had almost failed. Krystal turned to look at him as he asked if she could forgive him. "Of course I forgive you... I just... it's just a shock" Krystal said as she tried not to cry. After returning to earth it was just one thing after another and on top of that she had just had to leave Demetrius. "Why can't you explain what happened?" Krystal asked as she just looked at him.

Zack looked at her and rubbed the back of his head. "You wouldn't believe me. Either that or you would think I'm crazy. I guess that I do owe you an explanation...." He breathed out a deep breath and just shook his head in disbelief. Did what happen really happen? "There was some kind of spirit that spoke to me. I was cooking at the time and it startled me. I... I wish I could explain it better, but I'm not really sure about it myself."

What Zack said startled her more than the sight of the kitchen had but she managed to recover a little from the shock. It took her a few steps to cross the room and wrap her arms around him, looking up into his face. "I would never doubt you" Krystal said, trying to show she had faith in him. She needed to know more about this spirit though. "What did spirit say?" Krystal asked, clearly taking what he said seriously, to him though it would come off as supportive.

Zack turned and looked at her. Did she really believe what seemed so completely insane? "Nothing that made any sense. The spirit thought I was someone else. Mark or something like that. Anyway she, at least I think it was a she, was telling me to watch out for those closest to me and some flying guy. She say's I'm in danger, well this Mark guy is. It really makes me pity this Mark guy. If he really is in danger and would believe the spirit then he won't get the help he needs."

It was like her worst fears had just been realised. Zack had been contacted by his sister. It had to be her. Who else would try and contact him and warn him about this kind of stuff? The only good thing about this was that Zack didn't seem to believe that he was who the message was intended for. "Wow... yeah. It would suck to be him" Krystal said shrugging her shoulders a little. "Did she say anything else? Like about the help that was being sent?" Krystal asked curiously as she kissed his cheek. She had to find out as much information about this as possible.

Zack thought back for a minute. Sent here to rescue him, yeah. Now that she mentions it the spirit did, although that was an odd thing to ask. "Um yeah she did. My sister and two brothers. I don't have any remaining family though, and I was born an only child. I hope that these people coming for the Mark guy won't mistake me for him too. That would be awkward." He paused for a moment hearing the spirits last words ringing in his head. "She said.... Something else as well..... She said.... You may not be who you are. She was clearly a confused spirit, if she even existed at all. Maybe I'm just going crazy."

Krystal's forced herself to laugh a little when he mentioned that it might be awkward. It seemed that he was certainly convinced that this spirit was after someone else. It relaxed her a little until he mentioned what she had said about her. Krystal's arms dropped away from Zack as she looked at him. "You... you don’t believe her do you? I would never lie to you" Krystal said, pretending to be upset by this.

Zack moved closer to Krystal after she seemed upset. He wrapped his arms around her in a hug. "No of course not Krystal. The spirit wasn't after me. She was after some Mark.... Mark... Markell I think it was. Yeah that was it. That's probably the furthest away from my name as you can get. I must just look like the guy is all. I would never believe that you would lie to me. I wouldn't want to marry a liar, would I?"

His words were comforting. He honestly seemed to believe that this spirit was after someone completely different. That was good news. However it wasn't good news that the Princess knew exactly where he was. "Okay..." Krystal said as she hugged him. "I missed you like crazy" She told him, kissing him softly. No longer did she like kissing him, it felt like she was betraying Demetrius. Yet it was her job and Zack would suspect something if she wasn't as physical as before.

Zack kissed her back in return and then let her go to look around the burned room. "I missed you like crazy as well. I'm sorry that you had to return to this. I'll get someone to clean it up though, you don't have to lift a finger at all." Zack had his back to the doorway at this point just waiting Krystal's response.

Shien entered the pub looking around. He was once more in his look as if he were on Concordia, his demon arm visible. He looked at the few people who were around the pub. They stared and before they could make a noise they hit the ground, as if tazered without warning. He was on his way now silently towards the back.

Krystal just smiled at him. "I don’t mind... would happily come back to the pub burnt to the ground if it meant that I would be back with you" She told him sweetly as she looked over at him before going to one of the corners where their was a broom. "And I don’t mind helping clean up. Gives me something to do and might get it done a bit quicker so that we can see the full extent of the damage"

Zack smiled that she was taking it so lightly. He thought it would be a much bigger deal, especially after he almost burned the place down last time. She'll never leave him at the pub alone again after this, although he wouldn't exactly mind that either. "I guess we better get to cle...." Suddenly Zack grabbed his chest as electricity finished running through him. He fell to his knees and finally passed out falling to the ground. Shien stood in the doorway staring at the knocked out Zack on the ground. Shien walked over to Cleo taking out his gun. He placed it on a still standing shelf next to her.

"Take it. You want to impress Daddy right? Kill Markell yourself. Why leave it to Vann? GO AHEAD CLEO! YOU WANT DADDY TO LOVE YOU RIGHT? YOU WANT THE IMPOSSIBLE DREAM? THEN DO IT! PULL THE MOTHER FUCKING TRIGGER YOURSELF IF YOU REALLY WANNA FOLLOW DADDY! GO AHEAD BE HIS LITTLE PUPPET FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE."

Cleo screamed as she watched Markell fall to the ground. She reached out to catch him but he fell to the ground too quickly. Looking up she spotted Shien standing in the doorway. He was fully exposed and Cleo could only wonder what the people out in the pub had thought. Before she could say anything though he was walking over and placing a gun next to her. Cleo looked at it before his voice began to yell at her. With every word he said, she visibly flinched. Reaching out, Cleo picked up the gun. "Just SHUT UP" She yelled back at him as she used a bit of her ability to make Shien quiet for a few moments, clamping his lips together. It was only for a few seconds though. "Why can’t you just leave me alone" Cleo said as she looked down from the gun to Markell. She couldn't pull the trigger. He was a good man, kind, sweet, and funny. He didn't deserve to die. Yet he was a threat to her father. She needed to do something. Her whole body was trembling. Cleo needed her father’s love. Holding the gun up, she went to aim it at Markell's head, not pulling the trigger though as her finger seemed frozen.

Shien looked at her. She was actually contemplating shooting Markell? What was with this woman? Why did she want to so blindly follow her father when he clearly he didn't give a rat's ass about her. He walked over to Markell and kicked him over as he felt his lips unseal. Her powers were getting weaker by the minute. Markell's face was now clearly visible. "I thought we were friends Cleo. I can't be your friend and let you be something so much less then I know you can be. Why do you think that I stayed around so long Cleo? I never liked the league, but I thought that I could help you. Kill Markell now and I'll see I was wrong. I'll know that you are a hopeless cause that doesn't have any free will of her own. Congrats Cleo you will have then thrown away the one friend that really cared for you since they met you. Go ahead. Put a bullet right between Markell's eyes."

Cleo stood there, gun pointed at Markell, willing herself to shoot. Her eyes had the start of tears in them as Shien turned Markell over so that she could see his face. This just made things worse. She couldn't shoot him when she could see his face... the face that had caused hers to light up and had given her the first real chance at love she had ever had. Suddenly everything became too much for her and Cleo yelled out at Shien "Stop it!" At this her knees grew week and she dropped to the floor sobbing. The gun also falling from her hand and hitting the floor as Cleo just sat there, curled up in a ball crying. She couldn't do this.

Shien watched as Cleo fell to her knees and dropped the gun. He nodded his head and picked up the weapon putting it away. "Don't cry Cleo. You just too your first step away from following Daddy. Oh and don't worry. The gun was never loaded in the first place. The Gods and Goddesses want the Brothers to have a shot. I wouldn't get in the way of that. I understand if you'll hate me forever now Cleo. As I said though I am your friend and would protect you as such. Even if that means I have to protect you from yourself."

Despite him telling her not to cry, Cleo couldn't help it. Tears streamed down her face as she came to terms with what had just happened. She had failed to do what her father would want her to do. She had disobeyed him in a sense. Her whole life had been about doing what her father wanted... and now, well now she didn't quite knew what to do. "I don’t need protecting..." Cleo mumbled as she wiped her eyes and looked over at Markell. "And what do you suppose I tell him when he wakes up?" Cleo asked, having no clue how she was meant to make all of this right. In her mind Shien had taken this too far.

Shien stared at her. "You need more protecting then you know. Your father is a dangerous man that loves only himself and respects only the strongest. Everyone needs to be protected from that. Especially those that yearn for his love and respect. Tell Markell it was someone with one of the Earth tazers. I'll steal the cash in the register and he'll be none the wiser. I will leave as well if that is what you wish Cleo. I will always try to help free you from his grasp though, because you are my friend. No matter what you think of me."

Cleo didn't want to believe Shien and the way he spoke about her father. To her, her father was a great man. However she was glad when he came up with a plan. It made sense and Zack would buy it. Hopefully. Cleo then turned to look up at Shien as he said that he would leave. "You don’t... you don’t have to go" Cleo said after a deep breath. "You are right, you are my friend and I don’t want you to go" She admitted. "Just... just don’t do something like that again"

Shien smiled a bit as she said to not do anything like that again. "Alright, but you know someone had to do it. I did it to help you Cleo. Now dry your eyes and look like you just woke up too. I'll get rid of the cash and put my enchanted clothes back on. They all should start waking up very soon." With that Shien left the room leaving Cleo behind.

Cleo sighed a little as Shien left. She wished that he hadn't done what he did but she could see that he was only trying to do the right thing. After all, Demetrius had tried the same thing not that long ago. Once Shien left Cleo set about sprawling herself across the floor as if she had just fallen there. She then closed her eyes and waited for Zack to wake up.
Shien walked outside and did just as he said, pocketing the cash and returning to his cover as Lee. It would be best if he seemed to be knocked out as one of the others was as well. Plant the doubt in their minds that it was anyone like him, so he lay on the ground and didn't get up until anyone else started to wake up. He wouldn't be the last, but not the first either.

Zack on the other hand began to slowly wake up as Lee was gone. He soon sat u and looked around. He saw Krystal on the floor and struggled over to her. He was still feeling the lasting effects of the sneak attack. He held her in his arms and tried to wake her up. "Krystal, Krystal wake up please. What has happened here.....?”

Krystal lay on the floor pretending to be unconscious until she heard movement and guessed that it was Zack waking up. Her thoughts were confirmed when she heard his voice as he called out to her and she felt him lift her up into his arms. Taking a deep breath she screwed her face up a little. “Zack?” Krystal mumbled as she slowly opened her eyes, looking up at him. “Zack!” She said wrapping her arms around him as she continued to pretend. “There... there was a man with a tazer” Krystal continued as she buried her face against his chest.

Zack held her for a moment trying to comfort her. "I am so sorry. I should have been the one to protect you. Are you hurt at all, that's all that matters right now." He was blissfully not caring about anything else. Sure there were probably others hurt and they were robbed, but none of that mattered.

Lee slowly woke up after hearing some movement. They all were getting up seeing if everyone was okay. Lee looked around. "Where are Zack and Krystal? Anyone know if they are okay?" He said knowing they would be and pretending he was having trouble moving.

"I'm... I'm fine" Krystal said, despite feeling weak. It wasn't from the 'attack' it was from the constant use of her powers. She wasn't used to using them so much. "And you shouldn't be sorry... things happen" She said trying to comfort him and tell him it wasn't his fault as she lent up to kiss him softly. "Are you okay?" Krystal asked, worrying that he might not be feeling too well after Shien had shocked him.

Zack nodded and gave her one last hug. "I am fine. We should see the damage though. We wouldn't want anyone else out there hurt without medical attention. We should also see what they got away with." Zack struggled to get to his feet. Electricity packed quite a punch. He extended his hand anyway confident he would be fine. "Come on I'll help you up Krystal. We can go check on everything together."

Krystal watched as he became concerned for everyone else. This was one of the things she found so sweet about him. When he extended his hand to her, Krystal didn't take it straight away. "Umm... I think I might sit here for a moment. Kind of feeling a little weak" She admitted, smiling at him to let him know that it would be okay. "You go and check though"

Markell nodded and turned to walk away. However his legs were pretty weak and he found himself unable to move. He leaned over on the thing nearest to him and struggled to drag his heavy legs outside. He made it to the stairs before he felt the need to sit down. "Damn those things pack a punch."

Lee helped the others up and looked around. "I'm going to go and pick something up. I'll be right back, check on Krystal and Zack for me." Lee left on his way to go ditch the money that had been "stolen". Now all that was left was a waiting game. Who would show up first? Who knew?

Castle Oblivion: Oblivion

Pyrus had a look of anger on his face as Kiel spoke of their previous quarrels and friendly spars. HE was ready to shout at his fellow member, but he gave up on it. Pyrus just sighed before looking out of the window of Castle Oblivion.

"Damn it! You're right... I can't believe I admitted that. Damn I need to fight someone else. Perhaps Brom would like a nice fi-" Pyrus pauses as he watches Valius who is currently outside, walk into the newly built Castle Animus. "Kiiiiiiiel! Guess what? We get to have fun after all. Castle Oblivion is no longer needed." Pyrus said before cackling and jumping through a window. "Come one Kiel! Let's see who can wreck the castle the most!

East Concordia: Crushed Resistance

A group of people are gathered in a small patch of forest in eastern Concordia. They seem to be rallying for something.

"First we must find the wolf pack! They are our allies against the despicable throne stealing Valius! We may not be a large group, but that just make it easier for us to..." Those were the man's last words as a giant boot came crashing down on the group.

"Die!" A booming voice said from an enormous body. "Brom stomp... No resist! Vally is king!

Dock

Taran had been focusing on the environment around him, with not only his own magical powers, but Tristan's as well. Tristan's magic was very terrifying, if used excessively. Nothing seemed to be able to budge his body, at least not until he heard Sorcha's voice break him away from his meditation. The birds that had landed on him, all flew away, and the rest of the animals went back to moving in their set patterns.

"I have missed you as well." Taran said, only turning his head toward her. There was brief moment of silence before Taran spoke again. "Sis... Sorcha, I don't even know where to begin with this. I'd just like to apologize for what happened on the beach. The man I was before you restored me, was a man of darkness. It's all her doing." Taran said, his last words directed toward Corissa. "That reminds me." Taran stood up from his sitting position and picked Sorcha up from the dock. In flash, Taran and Sorcha were gone from the dock, and back on the beach in the midst of Saige, Masaharu, and Aldrich. taran hadn't set his eyes on the group enough to know them, and a part of him didn't really care. Taran didn't like the scenery of beach, only because the sand made it inconvenient. He continued to hold Sorcha in his arms, not allowing her to lay on the sand. Keegan was no where in sight, which meant that Taran would have to wait for Sorcha to regain her own energy. "Exhausting yourself like this for Markell isn't wise. I love my eldest brother, but your life hold more weight than his." Taran said.

Miami: Going back.

Keegan got back to the beach, a cigarette pinched between his lips as he took a long draw on it. It was exactly what he needed. He took another long drag as he looked around the beach. He'd bought an assload of cigarettes and they were all stuffed in the duffel bag now on his shoulder, along with some changes of normal clothes for Sorcha when she came to her senses, and some food and other supplies, should the need fall to them needing them. After all, how long could they remain undetected once they jumped back to Concordia? Flicking the cigarette butt to the sand, he lit up another and drew in. Maybe he could get Sorcha to...no, he wouldn't start onto that path. Despite her ridiculous clothing, he wasn't going to introduce other bad habits for her.

Aldrich, meanwhile, was entertaining Masaharu's question, "I am an ally. Let us leave it at that, shall we? Concordian or Earthling, what does it matter?" He asked as He looked up as Taran appeared on the beach near them, holding Sorcha. He would let well enough lie as it was. No sense pissing both brothers off. Keegan walked onto the beach, keeping his distance from the younger man. He felt for Keegan, knowing he was just trying to protect his sister, but she wasn't a baby. And that cheap shot hurt. Keegan catching sight of Taran, flicked his cigarette away and motioned for him to bring Sorcha over.

Reicha was leaning against the bottom of a dock, her back pressed up against the wooden stilts that held up the dock. Her eyes opened as she smelled Sorcha's scent return to the beach and quickly began to make her way toward the group, her body moving easily over the sand.

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Concordia: I like to breaks stuffs.

Kiel smirked as Pyrus pointed out the blatant needlessness of the castle. Smirking, he picked up a ornamental suit of armor and slammed it through the wall, "Fear not, little elemental. I shall do all the heavy lifting. To break stone takes true strength, and even your fires are not hot enough to do any real damage. This competition is mine."