As the rest of the crowd held the beasts attention, Kira was building up his mana. He wasn't sure how much it would take to destroy this thing but he didn't want to take any chances. The took on a sudden chill as he released the cold aura around him, unable to keep it drawn in close with his focus else where. The ground around him began to freeze, ice traveling along the floor as if it were a living creature seeking to capture the room. The snow walker knew that he had to finish what he'd planned before it got too out of control. With that in mind, the winter mage raised his staff, focusing his mana through the ancient runes embedded in it. Then, as if sensing the new threat, the beast turned on him. At that moment, Kira knew he didn't have much time.

The beast let out a loud growl as it focused its attention on the mage. It crouched low to the ground as it prepared to strike, strangely like a lion about to pounce. Then, faster than he had anticipated, the beast sprang off its hind legs, leaping over Kaylin and raising it's claws. Kira had precious seconds before the beast would tear him asunder. The mage began to chant, the arcane might flowed from his tongue, each word filled with power. As the beast closed in his chant reached its peak and Kira shouted the name of his spell, "Alderon en Requim, vallsalla derist nor!" Suddenly the cold aura he'd released condensed into a find point in front of him and the cold erupted from the floor in a pillar of ice sharpened to a point, catching the beast the moment before it could strike. Instead it was impaled by the pillar through its gut and out through its spine with a sickening splatter, but not before it caught the mage across the shoulder with its claw as it carried the beast upwards. Then with a shudder and a low whine, the dog beast's life left it and its tentacles dropped to its side.

Kira fell backwards with the impact of the beast's claw, holding his shoulder where the creature had struck him. The pain was immense as the claws had torn through the flesh easily, leaving a gaping wound that began to bleed down his arm. But what really frightened him was the amount of energy he'd just used. He'd never cast a spell like that at a live creature, and its capabilities disturbed him immensely. It was not known to the worlds population, but the truth was Kira was afraid of the very power he held. It's strength and energy flowing through him frightened him more than anyone would ever know. What terrified him most was the fear of it ever getting away from him and the havoc it could reek and as the crowd of people stared in horror at the beast and what Kira had just unleashed, the snow walker felt for a moment why they would fear him so much. Yet, he had shown even he could be wounded.

((I kinda wanted Aaria to have a little action, I know Kira killed the beast and I have no intention to over-rule that. However, in this post, it will be as though she fought it inbetween Genesis and Kira. If that's alright with everyone. If not, I'll edit.))

Aaria took a step back, allowing the warriors to rush forwards to fight the creature. She had every intention of waiting until the perfect moment, when the beast was distracted. She had seen this beast before and she knew exactly what it was like. Balancing two arrows, she crouched, her eyes never wandering from the creature who was snarling and clawing at everything he could reach. For first time for a long time, Aaria found fear encasing her, wrapping around her heart. And even more so when the Winter warrior, Kaylin, ran forwards to fight the beast.

"Careful," She whispered to herself, watching as Kaylin dodged the creature. However, the dodging did not last for long. She gasped as Kaylin was thrown through the air, blood splattering the floor. Still, she resisted the urge to shoot the arrows. But how much longer could she hold back? How many people would this thing kill before it had to be stopped? Chewing her bottom lip, Aaria scanned the crowd for Kiane, but there was no sign of him. Kaylin needed his help, but he wasn't there to give it.

Horror flooded her as she watched a new warrior run forwards and start to fight the beast. But soon he was thrown through the hair as well, his blood joining Kaylin's. She couldn't hold herself back anymore. Releasing the arrows, she kept her eyes on the creature, to see if the two met their target. The first two hit the beast's flank, causing it to rear and roar extremely loudly. More screams echoed through the hallowed hall. Yellow eyes turned to her, as it bared its teeth. Gracefully she reloaded the bow, releasing two more in quick succession. Aaria clearly had a great skill and she looked graceful and majestic in her movements.

Taking a deep breath, she released the two arrows, but both missed, as the creature batted it away with its paws. It's growling increased tenfold, as it glared at her furiously. Stepping back, she drew her sword as it made a move towards, tentacles flying, knocking things over, people and tables. Preparing herself, she glanced around the edge, her eyes falling on the plants that stood against the walls for decoration. Grinning, she focused her energy on them, muttering old words under her breath. Closing her eyes she threw her hand out to the side, to where the plants were.

Crashes filled the Hall, causing more screams and shouts. Opening her eyes, she grinned even more, as the roots of the plants twisted and crawled towards the creature, which was froze in surprise. Quickly the plants wrapped their way around its legs, just as she had planned. The stopped it for now, causing her to smile widely, gripping her sword. However, her joy was short lived.

Tentacles shot everywhere, slashing and slicing. The roots simply weren't strong enough. And it wasn't long before Aaria was caught with one, despite her dodging and diving. Thrown across the room, she gasped, as she struck the floor, he sword and bow knocked from her hands. The beast advanced, she raised her hand to defend herself, the beast slicing across it with its claws. She screamed in pain, edging away. It was an unimaginable pain, like a thousand daggers cutting through her arm, warm blood flowing down her injured arm. Closing her eyes, she waited for the worst...

But it never came. The beast's attention was directed elsewhere. Opening her eyes, she watched as the beast took on Kira, the Snow Walker. To her surprise, he slaughtered the beast, before it had even reached him. Shock flickered across her face, but she managed to smile. She had underesimated him a great deal and she could see that now.

If someone had told Lilly 10 minutes ago that there was to be a vicious, bloody battle in the middle of the ballroom, she would have burst out laughing. Yet, the 10 minutes had passed and it was so. She watched in utter horror as the few warriors around her took on the large beast. Standing straight up on all legs the creature was taller than Lilly. She could feel her knees grow weak and begin to shake at the pure fear she felt rush through her body. Lilly was not a fighter, so taking on such a massive monster like the one here would kill her instantly. The thought of that made her shiver, hoping desperately that the warriors would manage to slay it before it was too late.

Lilly’s mouth widened in a gasp as she watched Orin’s sister Kaylin be the first to take on the enemy. It didn’t take long before she was injured and thrashed to the ground, her blood gushing to the floor. Lilly’s heart ached, and she felt herself gravitating forward wanting to help her. Her small feet took tiny steps, desperately wanting to run to the winter warrior’s side, but she knew she couldn’t. Instead, she was held back by the gentle pull of Orin’s arms around her waist. She met his gaze, but his expressions were almost too painful to bare. The fear and sadness he exuded seemed to leak from all his pores. Her hand reached the side of his cheek gently, smoothing his faint green skin with the pad on her thumb. It was little she could do to comfort him, but better than nothing. She looked back at Kaylin, who had now be knocked completely out. Lilly wondered in horror if she was still alive or not.

Before Lilly could speak up to Orin, she became quickly distracted. Appearing from the crowd was a new warrior, one of Autumn. There was something about him that struck her, as if she may have known him from somewhere or seen him aroud. She scanned her memories briefly, but couldn’t recall a clear picture of his face. With haste she shook her head, knowing that it was no time to try and familiarize with people. She had to stay focused and aware of her surroundings for safety reasons. She watched intently with her captive green eyes as the Autumn born presented himself to the vicious monster. Her hand covered her mouth, eyes bug-eyed with anxiety. Though she didn’t know the man, she was deathly afraid for him. His race was too rare for him to be so brave and bold, which made him unique. Lilly’s worst fear was answered when she watched the Autumn born’s attempt fail, the creature flinging the man across the ground, blood escaping from him as well. Lilly couldn’t take the horror as tears began to roll down her face, wishing she could run to Kaylin and the Autumn man’s side. Orin’s close grasp around her waist made it impossible for her to run forward, which was probably best. In the mental state she was in, it would only put her in more danger is she ran to the warriors’ sides. Instead she had to stay put and wait until the creature was handled.

Aaria now emerged forward, with her bow and arrows in hand. Her aim was perfect and so very graceful. A faint smile creeped at the corner of Lilly’s pursed lips, in hope that Aaria might take the creature down. She was a sight to see, Aaria being adorned in a luscious red gown yet holding her weapons to fight. The slimy, black creature didn’t hesitate to jump at the summer warrior. It’s power was clear to see, after having three highly trained warriors not yet being able to kill it.

“Orin, the king said this was only one of their creatures... Imagine what a whole army of their actual warriors are like!” she mumbled quietly, her voice to weak and heavy with fear to speak any louder. The thought was frightful, Lilly finally realizing now what kind of trouble she put herself in. The war would change her life forever, she could already tell. As Lilly turned away from Orin to look back at the battle, she nearly collapsed to the ground. Now Aaria had been injured. The smell of poison off the enemy was so potent, Lilly could only assume how bad the injuries were. It was urgent to come to their aid fast, but no one in the room dared to come close to the action in the center.

And then there was Kira, the winter mage that everyone had feared earlier out in the streets. Comparing him to the looks of this creature, Kira seemed like an angel, and nothing to fear of. Yet his pillar of ice that shot from the ground proved otherwise. Who knew such a small person would be able to conjure up so much power and energy. The ice the was shaped like a spear struck the belly of the monster, the creature echoing his last growl until it went silent. The room was in utter shock as they stared at the snow walker in amazement. Lilly didn’t take the time to be in shock though, for as soon as she saw the creature take it’s last breath, she pulled herself out of Orin’s protective grasp and hurried forward. She almost tripped over the huge bulk of the dark green fabric that made her dress as she rushed away, unsure of who needed the most help first. All of them had been injured-- Aaria, Kaylin, the Autumn warrior, and the snow walker.

“We need medical supplies NOW,” Lilly managed to yell in her most forceful tone she had ever heard herself emit. She was determined to not let any of these warriors die, especially on such a night like tonight. Her gut feeling told her to go to Kaylin first, for her injuries seemed to be the most extreme. There were bite marks deep in her flesh, and a bone seemed broken. Lilly got down on her knees, pulling out the supplies she had shoved in her pocket from earlier. Somehow she knew she would be needing the meds, and thank goodness she did bring them. Her tiny fingers worked quickly as she popped the cap off a vile the as filled with a poison counteract. She poured it over the open bloody wounds, the liquid bubbling and absorbing the poison that had entered her system. She then hovered her hands over the broken bone, chanting a few quick spells before standing back up. What she chanted in her native forest tongue was a special spell that acted as a pause. It would keep Kaylin’s body in it’s current state until more help could reach her. This way there was no chance she could get any worse than she already was. Lilly couldn’t tell if she was still alive or not, for his skin was freezing cold, but wasn’t that the way all winter-born people felt? Lilly bit her lip and decided she needed to move on to the next.

She picked up the ends of her gown to run faster. She made her way to the side of the Autumn born, falling to her knees and gazing in his eyes. “What does the pain feel like?” she asked him quickly, analyzing his wounds. The tentacles that were on the creature had pierced his skin pretty deep, and the poison seemed to be oozing out of the wound. Lilly’s naturally wavy hair fell in her face as she worked to open another vile of the liquid she had used on Kaylin. “This should help, it might sting though,” she instructed, nodding her head gently to keep the Autumn born reassured. She poured the contents of the vile over his cuts, the smell of the poison almost too much to bare. Lilly then placed her left hand on his chest. Her palm began to heat up fast, yet she couldn’t tell if it was from her power or the warmth of his chest. Being so close to him it was clear that there was a cloud of heat around him. His fire ability she witnessed from him moments ago would be the explanation for that. Her hand that was on his chest began to glow, emanating a soft yellow light. She closed her eyes to focus, pushing some of her aura through her body and letting it enter his chest. Her breath was light as she aimed on healing his core, which would push out any toxins that had entered. She began to smile as she opened her eyes and waited to see his reaction.

Genesis looked the the snow walker with a new found respect. He knew that magicians commanded powerful elements, even he himself could control fire to that degree which the snow walker had released earlier, but not that fast. Genesis needed time to govern that much raw quintessential energy. He could only stand there in amazement looking at the dead beast impaled feet from the ground by a spear of ice. The pain caught up to him as he staggered himself to a knee, his hand going to his chest but stopped before he touched it. There was the smell of poison coming from it, it wasn't faint like you would see in most common poison, no this was strong as if everything about that beast wanted everything dead. It was a horrid smell, but he knew how to overcome it, he began to reach into his vest when a woman in green, more or less collapsed next to him, reassuring him that he'd be ok.

He smiled at the woman, her eyes showed the shock of the heat that left his body when she had touched him. He let out a small laugh, but grunted from the pain when he did so.

"It feels as if I've been punctured by a few spears," His voice was still that smooth and calm one. "Though the wounds don't seem to be as large as a spear." He grunted again as she poured a small vial of what looked to be a poison counteraction though he wasn't sure, the pain was sharp but it let him know it was doing just that.

She placed a hand on his chest and it glowed slightly yellow. He had heard of healing through magic though this was his first time actually seeing it, his eyes went a little wide at the sight but calmed as he felt a warmth flowing through him. He let out a light breath and felt his necklace slowly twist around his neck falling against his upper chest. The woman was looking at him, almost fascinated, like she was waiting for something, yet nothing at all, maybe a reaction?

"You have an outstanding talent," he smiled at her almost a childish grin that promised bad things. "And I thank you for being on our side." He looked into her eyes as she re-opened them, forgetting what was going on for the moment. He regained his head and slowly tried to stand, he never really liked being "grounded" it reminded him of his childhood, brought back memories of his sicknesses.

"I am known as Genesis Night, mi'lady." He smiled with that look again. "What may I call you?"

The snow walker blinked, slamming his eyes shut for a moment and then opening them back up. He felt unsteady and the room was beginning to spin. Then he felt the pain worsen, as if thousands of needles were pressing into the wound on his right shoulder. Kira's grip loosened and his staff fell from his hand, clattering to the floor. The pain was strange, a sensation he'd never felt before. He'd been hurt plenty of times, but he'd never felt something as immense as this. It was staggering, literally, and Kira fought to keep himself upright as he rose to his feet. Something felt different as well. He felt the rays from the ball room lights touch his skin and warm them, an alien feeling. Then it hit him. It was gone. The frozen blizzard that normally encased him in endless winter had ceased its fury.

The complications of that realization dealt a greater blow to the winter mage and he was in full blown shock. The room continued to spin and before he had taken even a few steps away from the creature's corpse he collapsed to the ground again. He was still conscious, but he was becoming delirious as his mind tried to comprehend what his body had concluded. Did I really expend so much energy? I've....done a bit here and there today, but I didn't think it had built up so much, he thought to himself. Then another thought came to mind. Could it be....the poison? Kira wondered. His strength was failing as he watched a woman in green tending to the autumn warrior he'd seen fighting earlier. Now Kira wondered why he'd never tried to learn any healing spells. Then again, he doubted he had any energy left to use them. One creature had done all this, the snow walker shuttered to think what would happen when they faced more.

Wincing, Aaria got to her feet, hand pressed to her arm, attempting to stop the blood gushing all over her beautiful dress. "H-Help," She called, her voice highlighting her pain. Someone grabbed her shoulder, seating her in a chair, so that she would not fall once again. Closing her eyes, she waited for a Healer, as many whispered and muttered to one another. Scared voices, impressed voices all talking, edging around the dead beast.

Opening her eyes, she found Kiane crouched before her, an eyebrow raised. "You got injured? The mighty Aaria got injured by that creature." She stole a smile, hitting him with her good arm. "Well, let me see what I can do for you." He removed the hand which was clutched over the wound. As soon as he did, blood flowed steadily once more. "You really known how to injure yourself don't you? First posion and now this. Could you not have simply say pretty and watched for other warriors to destroy it?"

She tutted in disgust, shaking her head. "Of course I couldn't have. I gave it a go and I failed. But at least we were brave enough to stand up to such a creature." She protested, giving him a cold harsh look, Kiane just let out a small laugh, pressing his hands to her arm. She winced, causing her to give him another look.

Pale blue light encased his hands, glowing and sparkling. His hand heated up quickly, transfering the heat onto her arm. Once again, it surprised Aaria, but not quite as mucht his time. She had seen this before and as interesting as it was, it wasn't at all frightening. However this time, tendrils of light broke off from Kiane's hands, wrapping themselves around her own arm. They soothed her arm, taking away most of the pain and ache that was there. Widening, her eyes flickered to Kiane, who was muttering under his breath, completely focused. This was something she had not seen before. A final word escaped Kiane's lips, before the light faded away and his hands fell to his sides.

Inspecting her arm, she smiled, an eyebrow raised. "Thank you, once again. You have a serious talent with healing. Don't let anyone tell you any different Kiane. Now, the Snow Walker needs help." Nodding her head, she rose to her feet. There was something she needed to do. Without another word to Kiane, she turned to the beast, staring at it for a long moment. Quickly, she recovered her sword and bow before facing the King and his guard of soldiers.

Kiane rose to his feet, sidetracking the Snow Walker to grab Lily. He touched her arm, nodding towards Kira. "I get the feeling this may need two of us." He whispered as he walked towards the Winter man. "Snow Walker, my name is Kiane. I'm here to help you." He gave him a small smile. "Firstly we need to know where exactly the pain is."

Meanwhile on the other side of the Hall...

"Your Highness." She bowed, though it was rigid and tense. "What was the meaning of this?" She called suddenly straightening up, the crowd around her falling instantly silent at her words. Many stepped away, frightened to be close to someone who was challenging the King. "We come here tonight to be almost slaughtered by a creature that is darker than night itself? You gather the finest warriors to kill them? Or injure them? Some of us could have died tonight and many nearly did. Your Majesty I have respected you throughout the whole of my short life, I have even fought for you in wars. But this...Do you not think this was a step too far? Thankfully, the beast was destroyed, by a warrior greater than I. But what if it hadn't been? Your soldiers there would have been no match for it and your own life would have been endangered." Rant finished, she waited for the King's response, waited for guards to grab her and throw her in the dungeon, but she didn't care.

Many waited with baited breath. Most couldn't believe this warrior had spoken out with such force to a King. Others were impressed that such a young girl would dare to challenge him after he had put their lives in danger. But some felt that it was disrespectful and what the King had done was his own choice and obviously for the best. Eyes focused on the girl and the King, just waiting...

Orin did not look or watch when the other warrior’s attacked the creature, nor notice Lilly’s tugging on his arms, he only looked at his sister. His arms were tight around the little healer in his arms, searching for comfort he new would not come. He could not help but feel Kaylin’s pain through the link they shared, though it was disconnected from his physical body, he was glad of it. Pain meant that she was alive, that was all he would ask for. Sherri pressed against his side, knowing her pain as they were linked also, even in winter it was odd to be linked as they were. The Clan leader had thought it for the best, one could not survive without the other, this way their life energy was pooled; likely the only reason his sister now held breath. His head rested against the silken fur of the creature besides them, more than aware of every breath she took. The blood that leaked from her gaping wound was more than he could take, taking to her white skin, like a canvas of red. He watched as her body shuddered, shaking on the floor.

He fell as both his supports left him at once, Lilly and Sherridan moving when the fight was over. He moved without thought to his sister’s side, watching the Summer elf carefully, keeping his voice to himself. He touched her shoulder lightly, raising her had to his mouth as she left, thanking her without words. He knelt silently over his sister for a few moments, his eyes glazed with tears as Sherri settled down to hide them from the view of the whole ball room, her large body effectively becoming a shield. He looked around, hopping that none of the doctors were around to see; they would not allow him to do this. Picking up the hilt of his sword from his sister’s hand he slit his forearm on the tender inner-flesh. The knife cut a shallow grove from inner elbow to wrist, letting out his pale green blood, oddly iridescent in the lighting. He pressed his wound to hers and began to speak the words his mother had taught him, speaking them without sound.

The scream that ripped from his sisters mouth even under his grip, tore at his soul; her back bowing at the pressure he forced on her body. The scream did not stop like a normal one, but carried on without breath or pause, silencing the room of incoherent chatter. She writhed under his touch, trying even in her unconsciousness to brake away. As soon as he felt he could give no more blood he stopped, wrapping a scrap of silk around his shallow wound; he would be needed again after she was gone. All trace of her red blood had been washed away by his glittering green, covering her arm in the liquid. Her screams slowed but did not stop, as he heard the crunch and crush of her bones, the skin reforming as he watched…. She would not wake till tomorrow, his blood having a sleeping poison to aid the re-growth. He stood slowly, trying not to think of going with her, knowing her had to help his friends. Sherri let out a huff at his side, letting him know she was ready. He picked up his sister with more care than he had with anyone before, worry obvious in his face. He placed his sister in the mouth of the Great Cat, knowing that though the teeth might press on her flesh, it would not hurt her.

“Take her to my rooms, let the doctors care for her.” He told the beast, knowing it knew his words like any human. He watched the cat move off with sorrowful eyes. He moved slowly, heading firsts towards Lilly. He reached out touching her shoulder, knowing he had so much to thank her for, but it was not the time or place. So he lent down, kissing her sweet forehead and moved off, knowing who would need the most care in the room. It was not the Snow Walker, despite his cries of pain; it was the silent one of his kind in the corner, the Spring Maid had been all but forgotten in the trouble. When he reached her side he knelt down, looking over her founds with his long sensitive fingers. Her blood was dark compared to his, almost emerald in hue, though it too glittered with iridescence in the light. He paid no heed where his blood touched hers, or where hers leaked out onto where he knelt. Where a few splatters of his blood touched down she yelped, the flesh starting to heal minutely faster despite the fact it was only a few drops. Nodding to himself he knew nothing was broken, though her torso would need a good dose of his blood if it were ever to remain unscarred of the deep gouges that ran across her ribs cage and stomach.

“Preme para abaixo deusa, me axude a curar-la cun toque tipo de maxia. Crecer, curar, ao vivo, non pode tocar-lle veleno.” The incantation he spoke was strong, sapping him of the last of his energy; he would be out for the night within minutes. All he needed was to watch and check she was ok, she needed to be, there were so few of them, Spring becoming too far between. He could not for the life of him understand why the healers had not gone to her first, knowing that the King would likely punish them for their disobedience. Still as he watched the cuts began to stop bleeding and her eyes fluttered open, just in time to catch Aaria’s words. Her eyes flickered, a look of anger coming across her face as she had a miniature seizure in his arms. This did not shock him though, knowing the cause better than most, he held her so she would be safe from hurting herself. When she finished she blinked up, as though she were a computer re-booting and her personality filled in. She stood up and staying close as he now leant on her for help, his eyes closing as his hands wrapped around one of her legs for support.

“You should not speak to the King that way little thing, you are to closed to understand.” Te Spring Maid made a motion with her hands, to show she meant Aaria was not Spring. “Would you have gone blindly into battle as the Seafolk we now shelter? This has changed things.” She put her hand to her ribs, coming away with green blood. She brushed it off against the skirt of her dress, already green, though a few drips of the Spring boy at her ankles stained it with his glittering blood. She put a hand on his shoulder to help her stand, but the both fell to the floor, him now unconscious. She looked at the floor, confused as how she had come to be here. She glanced up at the King, seeing him nod to her and leave. She loved the man and would protect him till the end of time, but she felt she could have used some help this time. Frowning at the hurt he had dealt her she looked up at the yellow haired girl.

“We do not know the outcome of the war, only it’s beginning… Do you know how many would have died because of not knowing the enemy? How many would have harmed the troops as they ran from these creatures? Now you will stand together, how…. Beautiful you look, Winter and Summer forgetting their animosity, it is the only way it can be won.” Her eyes fluttered closed as her body tried to give up. “Be glad you have a kind King, even in your blatant disrespect, stupid child.” Her eyes burnt with anger for a few moments, before they to faded to a dull matt green and she landed in a pile next to her Kinsman.

The medicine seemed to be working, seeing as how he was trying to lift himself up off the ground. She placed an arm under his to give him more support while he stood up. Grabbing a roll of white linen bandage, she wrapped it around his wounds which were already begin to look better. She pulled tight, making sure there would be enough pressure. Though she seemed to be busy at work, she had listened to everything he said. Lilly blushed at his comment of her being talented, matching his smile in return. She relaxed, see as how he was fit to go. At this time Orin had touched her shoulder, and kissed her forehead in a thank you for healing his sister. She nodded happily, meeting his gaze before he swiftly left her to go towards the Spring Maid. I can't believe I forgot about her... she cursed at herself, trying not to let it get to her. Lilly knew of the healing rumors that some Spring folk have been known to embody. They could heal with their blood, whereas Summer borns were known for their warming light that healed wounds and broken bones. Orin would be able to save the maid, Lilly knew it. After feeling guilty enough, she diverted her attention back to the Autumn born, Genesis.

“Well thank you, Genesis, I like to pride myself on my ability to help people. It is all I know. And you may call me Lilly,” she spoke, her voice soft with a hint of tension. Her nerves were still buzzing seeing as how only moments ago the beast was still alive. She studied his features more so now, trying to place where she might have seen him before. The sheen of the black stone around his leather-band necklace caught the light, her eyes immediately drawn to it. Her mouthed dropped, a look of surprise and confusion adorning her face. That stone was unlike any other stone, Lilly knew for sure. It was a memento that her tribe would give to nymphs coming of age. She had lost her necklace one day in the forest around her home, the same day she had healed an Autumn born that was left alone to die in the woods. That day she was late for a ceremony, but while running through the trees to get there, she had almost tripped over the dying boy. She had healed him but rushed off before he woke up. Could this man be the same person that she had found years ago? Their race was so incredibly rare, it had to have been him.

Her green eyes travelled from off his chest, and flickered back up to look him straight in the eye. Lilly was unsure if she should say anything to him about it to him, but decided to ask him where he got it first.

“Where did you... find this?” Lilly asked as she used her right hand to cup the stone on her finger tips. The stone felt cold against the warmth he exuded, the feel of it smoother than she remembered. Her voice was distant, as if she wasn’t completely there at the moment. Yet before she could get the chance to hear his answer, she found her arm being gently tugged on. She turned her shoulder, looking up at the doctor she had met earlier, Kiane. Thank god he was there, too, for she wouldn’t have enough supplies by herself.

“Kira... yes, you are right,” she said instinctively after hearing him speak. Kiane had already began to walk towards the Snow Walker, making Lilly wonder if he had heard her response. She turned her attention back to Genesis quickly, bowing her head in a respectful manner, and then excused herself away. She swiftly spun around, pushing through the weight of her gown that had made it slightly harder than usual to move in. Her tiny feet pattered across the golden colored floor as she made it to where Kiane and the Snow Walker were, just next to the impaled creature.

Kiane asked Kira where the pain was. Luckily he was awake enough that they would be able to get an answer out of him, though by the looks of it Kira seemed a bit in shock. While waiting for an answer from Kira, she got down on her knees to get closer to where he was. She focused her energy towards her hands, both beginning to steadily grow and glow with the same warming light that all natural born healers encased. She had seen Kiane earlier with the same ability, which gave them a common ground to stand on.

Lilly smiled brightly, even if it was forced. She had to distract him from his pain, the best she could. It was a method she had learned worked from past experiences, helping keep the injured cheered while she gave them aid. With Kiane there to help heal, partnered by Lilly, Kira would be healed in seconds. Their talent would be pure magic to the crowd that was forming around the three.

Genesis made it to his feet and dusted himself off, he realized a moment later that his sword was still out and he quickly remedied that, sheathing it, after wiping off the beasts blood on the tattered cloak remains. He watched Lilly intently when she reached for the necklace and held it so delicately, before he could answer, a man approached and laid a hand on her shoulder before kissing her forehead and she scurried off, to those more injured than he. Never had he seen so many different born in one room, spring, summer, winter, and of course autumn. He was bewildered, he began to walk forward to the snow walker, when he heard the challenge from the female warrior, she was right in a sense, though it was the king's own, he could do what he wanted, that was that. He brushed the thought from his mind as he approached the snow walker, taking note of where the others were around the room.

The hall was vast and fit so many people into it, though most had backed themselves into walls when the beast released itself from its cage, they were now making their way back into the room, most quiet but there was a small dull chatter here and there. He pushed his way into the crowd to get to the snow walker, he looked as if he had drawn on all of his energy, though he was still there, it must have felt horrible to not have the energy left to even move. The good thing was that he had Lilly and another doctor it seemed, another magical healer, that was strange to Genesis, two magical healers, in one day, in the same place, how odd....the king had walked off moments ago, to do what he wondered.

He didn't want to interfere with the healing process, but he had to know, he bent down to a knee and placed the back of his hand on the snow walkers forehead, he was cold, like he should have been, but Genesis had gotten used to being warmer than others, but he was colder, and sweating, shock maybe? He looked at the small group forming around and smiled slightly.

"Snow walker, I apologize if that offends, but I have no other name to call you," He showed both of his hands to the snow walker. "I feel your pain, for I know what it feels like to drain oneself of all energy," He said the last low, as if he may not want others to hear. He recalled a memory of the days in his sickness, he had similar symptoms after fighting off a band of bandits, he had used all of his energy in the process. They had warmed his body with a fire, while someone else fed him energy, not healing energy but quintessential energy, feeding him that raw power had made him feel better slightly til he fully recovered.

He tucked the sleeves back on his tunic and held his hands out in front of him letting a phantasmal fire form around his hands and forearms, it would not burn but it could heat, all controlled by his focus. He placed a hand on the snow walkers upper chest and lower abdomen, "It will not burn, I promise you this." He stated in that reassuring voice, he closed his eyes trying to focus his energy like the snow warrior had done, letting it flow from his core to his hands, and farther, into the snow warrior, if he would take it, he only sent what he could to take the edge off of that drained feeling that most magicians get after days of work.

He fell away from the crowd, falling back into a sitting position his hands falling away from the snow warrior, and coming to his mouth as he coughed and had trouble breathing. He forced himself to scoot away and get to his feet, he had survived his sickness as a child, but it came back when he exerted himself. He covered his mouth as he walked away from the small crowd, coughing and feeling weaker, he needed food and rest, and he hated the later, it made him miserable to rest, too many bad memories. He tucked a hand into his pocket and pulled out the last of his vials, it boosted his immunity a little, he drank it, it didn't make him feel any better, and tucked the vial away again, as he leaned against a wall lightly, thinking about where to head to next, people around him looking at him with questioned looks, he just smiled as if to say it was ok. Where to next he thought, would the king come back or was he free to do as he pleased? He leaned there resting, thinking about what to do next.

Aaria gave a curt nod to her words, though she did not agree with them in the slightest. Yes, they knew more about the enemy, but now some of them were injured and even worse, the Spring Maid had been injured herself. She realised that the Maid emust have trusted her King a lot to allow any of this to happen and still defend him afterwards. It was something that deeply puzzled her, but she did not ponder on it too long. However, what she had said about being united was true. They could now stand as one, each of the Seasons could call the other a friend. Her eyes wandered to Kayling, Lily, Genesis, Orin and Kira. Each different. Each now united. But there were more pressing things to deal with first...

"Some help here," She called, walking across to Orin and the Spring Maid. "She needs some rest. I saw what Orin here did and she simply needs some sleep, as does he. I would take her to her chamber and have Kiane go to her as soon as he can. Take Orin to the Infirmary, where the doctors will be onky too willing to help him." Some men had joined her, obvious warriors. They nodded, picking the pair up with gentle care. Aaria watched as they carried them out of the Hall for some well earnt rest. She would have done it herself, but she did not feel her arm could take that much so soon.

As soon as they were out of sight, she turned to the others, who were crowded around Kira. She too went over to join them, arriving just in time to see Genesis perform his art on Kira. An eyebrow raised, she smiled slightly. "Wow," She whispered, looking at him for a long moment. "That was great." She praised, looking down at Kira and then glancing at Lily and Kiane. "Will he still need to be healed?" Kiane nodded in response, still focused on his charge.

Seeing that they appeared to be busy, Aaria turned to Genesis. "You fought well today, I must say even I was impressed and it takes a lot to impress me." Smiling, she tucked her long hair behind her ear, smoothing out her dress. "I'm Aaria Maye of Summer. And who might you be?" Before she recieved an answer, Genesis did something that spark an interest and a worry. "Are you alright?" She asked, frowning as he downed a vial of something. "Maybe one of the Healers should see to you."

As soon as Sherridan had placed her master in Orin’s bed she moved out into the main infirmary, doing her best not to notice the smell of blood. Her stomach growled at her, she had been beneath the humans all day running, and now they could not feed her. She shook her head, knowing better than to think that way; she would be much praised tomorrow. She headed towards the smell of Orin, huffing the silly curtains out of her way. A few of the orderly’s screamed on seeing her massive furry head come through, but she paid them no heed, moving through to where Orin was being tended to. She sat waiting patiently for the doctors to finish on the long slit down his arm, she huffed jollily to herself, knowing how much trouble he would be in with Kaylin. Every now and then she nosed the doctors who jumped and made rude shooing noises at her. She growled growing impatient and stood filling most of the curtained room. A practiced motion brought her tail into her mouth and she bit down carefully as to draw blood. The doctors looked at her almost black green blood as it fell across her mistress’s brother. A few of them moved to capture the blood, but her deep warning growl soon stopped this. She ignored her charges weak yells, knowing that this was what was done between her kind, the spring were made to share information and energy.

When the wound was closed she pushed the doctors away, seizing him in her mouth like a kit. The doctors around her yelled in anger and dismay, it didn’t faze her. She knew she could swat them away with ease; her massive paws more than able to take a full-grown man out with its strength. The weight was no more than his sister, most likely to his constant illness. She moved with ease and grace through the halls, pushing the doors open with her forehead. Soon they came to the privet rooms made especially for them. Her large deep green eyes fell on the splayed form of her mistress. She placed him with care on the bed, climbing up behind him. She placed herself in the center of the bed, using her tail to keep Orin on and pulling Kaylin’s curled up form between her fore and hind legs. She would keep her mistress safe above all others; letting harm come to her was against ever instinct she held. The fact that she had been ordered to allow such things made her feel inadequate, so tonight she would sleep with one paw draped over her. Her strong tail dripped blood over the other Spring born and soon he was drinking from it to ease the flow. She was glad that even unconscious she was cared for; the blood would hopefully mean he would be able to join them in war. Glad that her pups were safe she closed her eyes, settling into a deep sleep.

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Kaylin woke slowly, her head hidden from daylight by Sherri’s large paw. She paused, wondering how she had gotten into Orin’s room. She sat upright, the night before rushing to meet her. Her arm was covered in the crusty glitter of her brother’s blood and she remembered being tossed to the floor by the disgusting black dog. What had happened? She checked herself over, finding very few marks of her battle; she must have been in a bad position to warrant this much blood to be given. She moved slowly, knowing how off the sleeping poison in her brothers blood made her the morning after. Once on her feet she draped herself over the large sleeping cat, climbing up the rib cage with difficulty. She looked down at her brother for a while, taking little notice of the black blood that covered his mouth and arm. She patted Sherri’s thick hide in thanks, knowing that she had looked after them both last night. She prodded her brother with her toe; it was time for them to get up from the sound of the castle.

“Give it a rest Kay Kay.” He mumbled turning over. It poked him again. “Kay I don’t wan to get up yet, the horn hasn’t sounded yet, we aren’t needed for training till later.” He pushed her foot roughly away, she always wanted to be the first to training in the morning and insisted on taking him. Not this time, he wanted a little more rest and then he would get up in time for all the other students. His eyes were pried open with her small fingers; he looked in shock at the splatters of blood across her face. He pulled her down into his lap, checking her over with his skilled long fingers. All the while last night came back, had he passed out again? He could taste the bitter left over’s of Sherri’s black blood, that meant that the doctors had been having a hard time with both his self inflicted injuries and illness. He felt completely revitalize after a dose of Spring blood, the only problem was that their blood was known to be highly addictive. He slowly licked himself clean, knowing it would guaranty him good health for the next week or so. He buzzed slightly, pulling his sister into his arms for a tight hug. Like him she was cleaning off the dried blood, long licks’ cleaning off the glittering left over’s of his healing liquid.

“You are feeling better then?” He asked, taking note that he had already cleaned off Sherri’s tail. He was more than satisfied with the feeling of health; he only hoped that the others were just as well. The healers seemed to be more than exceptional in the castle, handling the incident without going into hysteria as he had expected them to. His mind soon traveled to Lilly, he had been ignorant of her last night, only caring for his sister. He would have to make it up to her, knowing that it was unacceptable to act in such a way to someone so beautiful and kind. He pushed his sister off his lap, moving off towards the small bathing room through the door, knowing that in there would be at least a pool of cool water. As he walked he stripped off his jacket and shirt, ruined under the fall of blood both red and green. He washed everything he could reach between the band of his trousers and the tips of his pale green hair. He didn’t lick the mixed blood of his sisters and his own, it was thick over his forearm, it was not good for him.. he didn’t need it. He heard his sister move into the room but did not turn, knowing she too would want to get rid of what was left of her blood. He closed his eyes, thinking she would be in her under-garments.

“Much better thanks to you and Lilly. Will you be calling on her later?” She asked curiously, knowing that her brother was more than a little interested in the girl. She shook her head, the other woman would be well sought after, not that she doubted her brother, but he was hardly normal. She laughed to herself; maybe it was a hateful wish, to think he would not get the girl. She did not want to be left alone, no one wanted a warrior wife in Winter and though she was good with children she would not be giving up her life quite yet to be a house wife. She sighed as the cool water splashed against her stomach, knowing that her brother would not look. Her own blood ran red into the water, drifting through the clear liquid lazily. She wished she were home now, they would go out for drills in the morning then do there allotted jobs. She would miss the children of Winter, knowing that it was unlikely she would make it home ever again. She handed the robe her brother groped for without a word, letting him leave the room. She eased out of the rest of her garments and slid into the icy water. This was where she belonged, in the cold icy waters of her homeland. They would do races when the ice flow began to crack, leaving the lakes clear for maybe a month. The cold was numbing, like knives into flesh as soon as you touched, it was a race to the other side, but it wasn’t just against one another, by the time you reached the other side if your limbs were too numb you would sink beneath the icy surface. She herself had never had the problem, but her friends had.. It was utterly terrifying to watch them sink beneath the glassy water, more so than any war.

“Sister will you get us some breakfast? I’m going to check if Lilly is ok.. I’ll be back by the time you are!” He hated to leave her when she was feeling bitter, but knew there was nothing he could do about it. He headed to where he knew her room to be and hoped that she was there. She might have not made it, or gone back someone else, it wasn’t uncommon after a ball. He paused before the door, hoping that she was in. The cold sank into his feet from the stone floor, while he tried to make himself knock. He shook himself, looking down at his pale green sleep shirt over his trousers from the night before, what a state. After awhile and a few curious glances from the serving staff he knocked, knowing there was nothing to be done if she was out.
((KK ladies and gents, time for the next day!))

((Because I want a steady flow from my last post to this one, I will have to god mod a tiny bit by saying things with Kira worked out, etc.))

Kiane and Lilly worked wonders on Kira, their teamwork making for a swift recovery for their winter hero that had slain the horrid beast. Seeing that he would survive his ordeal, Lilly was finally able to relax. She fell back gently on the floor, all at once trying to not get consumed by the green dress she wore. Her idea of a magical night at the ball didn’t come true, which saddened her. She let out a muffled sigh, rolling over to her knees to push herself up. She struggled a bit, arms worn out from the day’s events. It was at this time that she realized how exhausted she was after lending out so much of her energy to aid the injured. It had been a while since she had to do so many heals in a day, and on top of traveling miles to get to the kingdom, she felt ready to pass out.

Lilly watched as the Autumn born walked towards the wall, leaning up against it lightly. He looked awfully ill, which was understandable since he had been hurt and, as well, drastically helped in saving Kira. Lilly was indeed impressed by his skills of healing since that wasn’t his main profession. She debated going over to speak with him and check if he was alright, but watched as Aaria made her way over to him. Lilly would let them have their time, and try and find the Autumn born when he was free to speak. She was still very determined on figuring out if that was her necklace around his neck or not. She smiled gently over towards him and Aaria, bowing her head politely, then turning towards the direction of the exit. Every extra second that passed was only making her weaker, more sleepy.

By the time she made it to the door of her alloted room, she could barely twist the door nob. Lilly huffed and tugged on the handle, nearly falling to the ground on her butt in order to pull open the heavy oak door. When she pulled it open, she noticed that there were candles lit for her already. On the bed was her sundress she had on from earlier, and to her pleasant surprise, it was cleaned and spotless of any blood that was there earlier. A tap on her shoulder made Lilly squeak a tiny gasp, but it was only a service maid.

“I am sorry to startle you, miss, but I was told to come and wait here for you. It would be impossible for you to get out of that gown on your own,” she mumbled quietly, the maid’s eyes staring at the ground with modesty.

Lilly took the few seconds while the maid spoke to calm herself down. Lilly could handle no more surprises in one night. Luckily a maid was sent to the room, because the dress would have been a bear to get off. The maid began to help Lilly undress. The corset that strapped tightly to her skin began to loosen string by string. Finally she was to the point of her undergarments, the maid’s eyes diverting to the ground again. She bowed then scurried off out the door, leaving Lilly by herself. There was a simple lacy nightgown that hung over the bed post.

They really know how to take care of their guests, Lilly thought to herself as she worked herself into the white gown. As soon as her head hit the fluffy pillows of goose feathers, her vision went black and she dozed off quickly.

---

A knock at the door stirred Lilly from her sleep. As she opened her eyes slowly, she watched as the sunrise cast a soft light across the room. She let out a heavy yawn, rubbing her face in hopes to shake off the last of her night’s rest.

“Ughh,” she mumbled, not a fan of waking up so early in the morning. At home her father let her sleep until whenever she wanted, which was undoubtably a bad habit, but a habit none the less. Since it was sooner than she hoped to wake up, she was a tad grumpy. Lilly figured it was the same service maid from last night that might be insisting on breakfast or what not. Yet as Lilly made her way to the door, she was greeted by Orin. She shook the grumpy expression off her face, and instead it was placed by a weak smile.

“Oh, Orin. I am so happy to see that you are alright,” she chirped, opening the door fully so that he could come in. “I thought you might have been another maid knocking,” she added, trying to explain the reason for her not-so kind glance from a few seconds ago.

“I hope you slept well?” she asked, trailing back to the side of the bed she slept in. The covers and sheets were in a messy pile after Lilly’s restless movements during her sleep. She sat down on the silk comforter, not wanting to stay standing. Lilly's energy level was still low from the day before, making her want to sit as to not expend so much effort.

Genesis smiled faintly at Aaria his weakness drawing on him. "I'll be fine", he saw the worry in her eyes. "I've been like this since birth, but I've gotten stronger, its just when I overdo it, that I get like this." He smiled again to reassure her. "I am Genesis." He cursed himself just a little for forgetting to introduce himself at first, but she didn't look like one to hold a grudge, much.."If I may I must take my leave, I'll be fine once I get some rest." He bowed his head slightly, not wanting to rush off, but not wanting to pass out in the grand hall, and walked to the exit taking one more glance back at Aaria, and then walked out grabbing his pack from the guard he left it with.

He looked out into the dark sky, it was late and he was tired, though he didn't enjoy the comforts on an Inn, too many people. He walked through the vast city until he found a relatively natural area where the citizens could partake in nature without the fear of being attacked outside the city walls. He set up his bedroll, and lay down glancing into the night sky, remembering when he and his mother would do this and point out what each other had seen in the stars. There was a faint breeze but it wasn't chilly it felt good, tonight was not a night that he would need a cover of any sort. He propped his pack up against the tree carefully as to not break anything inside and laid his head on it drifting to sleep effortlessly, for the day had been long, a lot of energy spent, and a new enemy to take note and figure out.

Most of all his thoughts were on the new people he had met today, not all he had names for, some praised him, and for the most part he was accepted, he spent the last few years in the Summer city, though he never really felt like he was meant to be there, now he knew some other people who came to the city, not being born of the summer, and they had accepted him for the most part. He was interested in the Winter Warrior, he had met Lilly and Aaria, both seemed their own, and a few others had caught his eye through out the hall, he had meant to introduce himself, though there would be other days for that, for it seemed they would all be working together from now on. His hand went lightly to the necklace that he had worn since he awoke from that night of suffering, the night his troupe left him to his fate, he remembered his mother having to be dragged kicking and screaming away from him, she was needed though he understood that, but the necklace had brought comfort, comfort that something out there was looking over his health.

He fell asleep with a smile, and the comfort in knowing that he would wake the next morning. All other circumstances forgotten, for the moment of rest had finally come.

As the night had started to turn to day Romolus had began to awaken, feeling the sun warm his fur down to his skin.Romolus began to rise and stretch his entire body hearing his bones crack as he did the stretches.After Romolus was done stretching Romolus looked back at the bush he was sleeping seeing his cloak hanging from the tree, Romolus had walked past the bush and to retrieve his cloak.When he had grabbed his cloak he began to put his arms into the cloak’s sleeves and began to button up the cloak after doing so. After putting on his cloak he began to walk in the direction the castle was in seeing he was ready for the king’s speech today.

After walking about fifteen minutes through the sun lit forest Romolus arrived outside the Summer Palace. Romolus began to walk toward the entrance he had exited last night seeing it would be the fastest way to the kings meeting chamber. As Romolus neared the door he could hear two people running behind him which made Romolus turn around quickly. Romolus face showed a expression of Seriousness seeing it was the two winter fighters from yesterday that left him in the hallway extremely injured. Both winter fighters seemed to have a expression of hate on their face “You dare where the symbol of our peoples death, for this we will make sure you won’t be in the war or hear the speech anytime soon.” Both fighters told Romolus enraged as the man with the headband held his knife ready to stab Romolus while the man with the bandage face held his hand in a fist imbued in ice energy ready to strike Romolus. The first time Romolus had encountered these two he was extremely exhausted and weakened, but now seeing he was at full strength and there were no paid guards he was free to beat them without worry.

As both winter fighters rushed toward Romolus, he began to distribute most of his energy to every part of his body. When both winter fighters were about eight feet away from Romolus , Romolus made a move. Romolus disappeared in a blur and appeared in front of both fighters and kicked them both in the air, due to him moving so fast they couldn’t block. As they both flew upwards Romolus turned into a blur of dark gray jumping in the air flying past both warriors striking them as flew by both of them making them spin. Romolus landed on the ground in less than one second and jumped back up and flew by them again striking them once again. Romolus continued to do this striking them one hundred times before they hit the ground limp and unable to move.

After Romolus had completed the combination of strikes and landed, Romolus began to walk toward both warriors who seemed to be paralyzed but awake still but unable to talk. “Yesterday you caught me when I was in a very weaken state, but today you find me at full strength. Let this be a lesson to both of you to never underestimate a opponent.”Romolus told both fighters as he began to walk toward the door he was originally approaching.

Romolus opened the door and walked through it leaving both winter fighters outside in the sun. Romolus had walked down a hall and made a left turn and then a right turn arriving at the heavy oak door labeled infirmary. Romolus wanted to see if Aaria was there. As Romolus entered the infirmary he could hear a lot of talk about a beast in the ball and other things that made him wonder if Aaria and Lilly were alright. Romolus sat down in a chair in the infirmary and began to think of what to do to pass the time, knowing the meeting would not take place until a hour later. Romolus continued to listen to the other peoples conversation within the infirmary hearing much commotion about a beast in the ball and hearing a few people were injured. Romolus sat down and waited still thinking what to do, he thought of two option to go look for Aaria or go meet the king before the meeting.

Aaria bowed her head to him, giving him a brief smile as he walked away. She turned to see if Kira was alright, but watching Lily and Kiane work on him made her realise that he was in safe hands.Taking a deep breath, she returned to them, kneeling beside Kira. Kiane gave her the smallest of smiles. "He'll make it." He said, wiping his brow. "Thank you Lily. Get yourself some rest. Take him to the Infirmary." He instructed two warriors, who took Kira, holding him between them. Kiane looked exhausted, but he was still smiling. "You need rest too Aaria. I shall see you tomorrow."

Bidding them both goodnight Aaria turned, slipping her heels off and carrying them. Sighing, she rubbed at her arm. Although there was no cut, there was still a faint line and there were bruises already starting to form around it. Not to mention the other bruises that were undoubtedly going to come up overnight. Struggling to remember where her room was, she hobbled through the corridors, before she plucked up the energy to ask a maid, who pointed her in the right direction.

Gladly she opened the heavy wooden door to her room, surprised to find a maid waiting for her nervously. "Kiane right?" She asked, an eyebrow raised. The maid nodded, before hurrying forwards and relieving Aaria of her dress. She thrust a nightdress at her, which she slipped on, liking the feel of the silk against her skin. The maid whipped back the covers of the four poster bed. Smiling at her, Aaria sunk onto it, pulling the covers over her. It felt good to just settle down. She'd had a long couple of days and all she wanted to do was sleep. She didn't doubt that sleep would be hard to come by once they were out there fighting for their lives.

Closing her eyes, she fell into a deep sleep, one that was much needed.

*************************************************************

Wincing, Aaria opened her eyes, attempting to move her arms and legs, but she could already feel the stiffness in them. Light was shining through the window at the end of her bed, a bright wonderful light. Casting a glance around the room, she could see that the dress had been hung up for her and her tunic and trousers had been washed and dried and were laid at the end of her bed. The maid she had was certainly keen and she couldn't help but feel gratitude towards her.

Cursing, she sat up, rubbing at her arms. Determined, she slid her legs out of the bed, despite the pain. A bowl of water was waiting for her. Quickly she washed, before slipping her clothes on. Tying her hair up, she glanced in the mirror for the first time. She recoiled, shock written all over her face. She was pale, a cut on her lip looked red and sore and one of her eyes was heavily bruised. Last night these injuries hadn't shown themselves, but when the beast had thrown her from itself, she must have fallen badly. However, she'd had worse and wouldn't insist on them being fixed by Kiane.

Hurrying down the hall, she headed straight for the Infirmary, hoping to see Lily or Kiane, or Romolus, who hadn't made an appearance last night. She was worried about him most of all. He'd been gravely injured twice before and she hoped he hadn't again. Also she wanted to check in on Orin, Kaylin, Kira and Genesis, who she had seen injured last night. She hoped they too were all ok.

Opening the door, she stopped short, seeing Romolus sitting there. "Romolus!" She exclaimed, hurrying forwards, a smile on her face. "What happened to you? Are you alright?" Clearing her throat, she pulled a face. "Um, not that I was worried or anything." Smiling, she pulled up a chair, sitting beside him. She pulled at a tendril of hair that had escaped the ponytail.

A warm glow washed over Kira's body with the caress of the waking sun. The winter mage slowly opened his eyes and focused his vision until he could see clearly. He still felt incredibly weak from the previous day's fight and he couldn't help be feel insecure. Kira was frightened, vulnerable. The emptiness he felt at the loss of his power was alien to him and the cold wind that he'd always hated was now gone, leaving a strange tinge of regret at its lose. The snow walker touched his shoulder where he had been wounded and found the skin smooth and undamaged, but what amazed him more than anything was that it felt warm to the touch. Is it from the sun? he wondered.

Kira tried to push himself up into a sitting position and realized he had no strength with which to push. He lie there wondering if and when his mana would replenish itself. Of course it will come back, Kira told himself, but it was really just a reassurance. He didn't know if it would and the thought that it might not terrified him as much as having the power did. Now he was just a normal winter born boy that couldn't defend himself. If anyone wanted to be rid of the snow walker he'd have no way to stop them.

A nurse opened the curtain next to his bed and peeked in. "Oh, your awake," she said, a strange surprise held in her eyes. "I would have expected you to sleep the whole day through considering how exhausted you were. Its a good thing Lilly and Kaine fixed you up cause I don't think your body could have made it on its own," she continued. "So, how are you feeling today?"

"Empty," the winter mage replied simply. The nurse giggled as she moved towards the bed and began to check his temperature and other things.

"I'm not surprised, but don't worry. You just need to rest a bit and you'll get your energy back," she placed her hand on Kira's forehead and almost gasped. "That's odd, your...warm," she said as Aaria opened the door of the infirmary.

"Romolus!" She exclaimed as she rushed through the door. That was when Kira noticed another man sitting in a chair by the door. That must have been who she had called. As she began talking to him Kira looked up at the nurse.

"Is it bad for me to feel warm?" the winter mage asked as she removed her hand.

"I'm not sure, I've never felt a winter born that wasn't cool to the touch. Do you feel sick or disoriented?" she asked.

"Sick, no. Disoriented, very," he replied and the nurse giggled.

"I guess that was obvious. I'll be back, I'm going to find the healer. She'll know more than I do," she said hurrying past Aaria and Romolus out the door.

As Romolus ad finished thinking he decided to look for Aaria due to the fact that something may have happened to her, which could result into fatal injury. Romolus was about to stand up until the door opened and someone said his name, seeing it was Aaria who opened the door, he settled back into his seat. As Aaria made her way toward Romolus , Romolus became relieved to see she was alright, but as she came closer Romolus started to notice something different about her.Aaria looked pale and had a cut on her lip that looked red and sore along with a heavily bruised eye.

When Aaria began to say "What happened to you? Are you alright?" Romolus replied “I went to the woods to relax and get some training in and you don’t have to worry about me I am fine.” Romolus gave a slight grin after hearing "Um, not that I was worried or anything." Knowing they were somewhat attached together and worried about each other like true comrades.As Aaria sat in the chair she pulled out Romolus asked “So what happened to you Aaria you don’t look like yourself.”he observed her face more seeming to be worried and a little curious why she was pale.

After a few seconds of observing Aaria’s face Romolus grabbed the side of his left arm and rubbed it seeing he pulled something in his arm when he dealt with those two winter fighters quickly. Romolus stopped rubbing his arm and looked at Aaria “So are you ready for the king’s speech?”he asked Aaria as he adjusted his cloak to make it look nice and presentable, Romolus began to run his clawed fingers through the top of his head to slick back his fur to make himself look presentable. Romolus sat firmly in his seat and looked at Aaria seeming to wait for a reply. As Romolus waited for a reply he seen the nurse pass between them coming from the space where Kira was. Romolus looked to see the snow walker was sitting on one of the beds “Hello again.” he told Kira in a loud voice so he could hear him, Romolus remembered him from the town where he met saw Aaria.

Kaylin pattered through to Orin’s room once he had left, rummaging through their packs. She wanted to look nice today, it was very important she gave a good impression to the King. Also, secretly before bringing breakfast she was going to find Kira and ask him what went on last night, she was nervous at the thought of seeing him. All she remembered was the black beast, with teeth that bit to deep and shook her like a doll. Next time she would go in with Sherri and her spear, nothing would take her down twice, she just needed to train more. She slid into her tough leather breeches, tying them with the swift motions of practice; they were supple due to wear, but the off white leather meant she was near invisible in the snow. Carefully she started to bind her breasts with a long length of white silk; strong enough to take her rough action. She slipped on her sheer white cotton dress, attached to her neck by thick straps of white leather and shoved on her wrist guards. When she looked up into the mirror she smiled to herself, she looked more like a boy once bound, her features all that gave it away. She ran a hand through her hair roughly, knowing once more she would have to forget such things.
http://danielbogni.deviantart.com/art/Female-Warrior-128293753

Without putting on her shoes she moved off into the main corridor, she expected most of the people she had met to be there seeing as they were beside her when the dog came down. She moved through the cold room, her feet taking up the cold like it was a balm to sooth her worried mind. The light spilled over the many forms in the next room, where the most severe patients were being held. Children laughed, playing before ill parents; who gave weak smiles and the air was full of expectation. She paused looking at a small family, gathered to prey over someone they loved, it was touching; making her glad she had come and could defend these kind people from the darkness that was trying to take their land. She moved through quietly, not being noticed by most; making little sound as she walked. As per usually though, some of the Summer people turned, muttering and glaring as she passed, it would always be that way, they smiled at Orin, but not her, she was of Winter.

“Excuse me, but do you know where Kira is?” She asked one of the many orderly’s, “The Snow Walker?” She went on to say after her first comment got no reaction. The woman pointed to a bed near the door and she padded over with a small smile on her face. As she came closer she saw the form of the Wolf man and bit back a snarl, the man was looking for trouble wearing that cloak. She shook her head to clear it of its anger, smiling as she came into view, she waved at them both and bowed to Aaria. She had liked the other woman, despite her obvious dislike of her kind; she had something interesting about her. Her eyes moved off the pair, warm in spite of the disrespect; today was a time to be kind before the war began. She swept aside the curtain covering Kira from view, pausing to glance over her shoulder. The light that poured into the room made her happy, giving a clarity to the new day, that would wash away her new fears of the dark creatures. The dust particles that slid from the shifting in the busy room made the light look solid, tangible; she wanted to lie in them like a cat and forget about the coming troubles.

“Hey Kira, I hope you don’t mind me coming to…” She stopped seeing that he was in a worse state than she expected. “Ki what happened?” She asked rushing to his side. She could feel the air around him was no longer crisp and this troubled her. She sat with quick movements in the seat beside him, placing her delicate but warn hands over his body, searching for the reason of his drained appearance. She touched over his hands, head and chest, not thinking that this might be more than a little odd to him. Her mind raced, what had happened after she had been out? She stopped with both hands barely touching one of his, eyes closed and soon came to the conclusion he had used to much manna. She sighed, letting out the tinge of her own cold aura, hoping it would be of comfort to him. She was glad he had not been to badly hurt she realized, unlike many of the people in the castle they thought her to high or to white, he had treated her as.. something else.

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Orin shot up when the door opened, surprised beyond anything else. Soon his high hopes were shot to pieces though, from her unhappy look and slight glare. Was he not supposed to be here? Did she have guests? He stood for a moment, frozen by the thoughts that zipped about his head. When she eased up, he visibly sank back down into his feet, she wasn’t mad at him then at least. He walked into her room with care, taking in the disarrayed sheet on the bed. Ahh, he had woken her, a bad move on his part. He looked about for a sign of the time, but the drapes were pulled, denying him any idea of what might be coming soon. He followed her across the room, standing awkwardly when she sat on the bed, knowing he was most defiantly not supposed to join her.

“Yeh I guess so, I feel right as rain now. Sorry if I woke you, I’m used to a pretty early wake up call from Lin. Are you feeling ok? You used a lot of energy yesterday.” He shrugged sitting down on the rug beside the bed, eyes filled with tenderness. He lent back against it, allowing his legs stretch for the first time. He was glad that she was here, but now had no idea of what to say to her. He glanced up hesitantly trying not to let his eyes latch on to her bed dress. He looked back at the floor, concentrating madly on the color of the rug, a blush rising to his cheeks. He fidgeted with his hands before looking up again and smiling into her beautiful eyes. Why was he so nervous? He pushed a hand through his hair, a motion that spoke of concern. He still needed to pay her back for her kindness last night, he delved a hand into his pocket, hoping to find something nice in there, he usually kept things he liked around him. Pulling out a small rock on a leather thong he smiled; it would be perfect for the war, letting others of winter know she was a friend of his clan. He let it spin as he dangled it before his eyes, the small rock was the size of his little fingers nail and craved with a small cat face. It had been given to him by his mother when he was young to show the other tribes who he was a part of, but now everyone knew it was his to pass along.

“The meetings in about an hour, do you want to go grab some breakfast before hand?” He asked standing slowly. “Um, I guess this is a thank you for what you did last night. It should make your life as a doctor easier, the winter people will be more willing to let you help. Don’t ask why they wouldn’t before. The grudge held between Winter and Summer is utterly useless in my view, but this will make it easier for you.” He held it out to her. “You don’t have to wear it though, I don’t mind.” He looked down at his feet. “Anyway I’m going to get dressed. I’ll come up once I’m done.” He dropped the necklace into her lap with a nervous look and scampered out of the door, losing all his usual grace in his rush. He leant against the closed door for a moment, kicking himself for being so odd, what had he been thinking? He moved down to his room without meeting anyone and was glad of the peace. He pulled on his clothes with little care, just selecting something from the top that looked nice. He wanted to get back to her, but was unsure of how she would have reacted to his gift. He moved over to Sherridan, hoping to have avoided going for a few more minutes.
http://hellobaby.deviantart.com/art/Zephir-115847464
(Minor editing done, I' have another look in the morn. Sorries!)

Lilly was still very tired from yesterday, and as sat on her bed, she could feel her eyelids growing heavy once again, as if she hadn’t fully woken up yet. Her lack of awareness was what had caused her to sit back down on the bed in the first place, not taking into consideration the awkward place she might have put Orin in. As well, she didn’t take note of the uncomfortable hint of Orin’s persona, or his nervousness.

“I feel alright, don’t worry. I’m still sleepy though. Breakfast would be great,” she whispered, her voice as soft as the light peaking through the cracks of the curtains. Her energy level was slowly but surely rising, she just needed some food to give her a jump start to the day. Secretly she hoped today no one would get hurt, and that the action was out of the way until the war at least. Knowing the people she had met here though, that was highly unlikely.

As Lilly was answering Orin, she noticed him pulling something out of his pocket. It was a necklace with a tiny stone on it, carved in a certain shape that she couldn’t tell what of from the distance she was at. Her eyebrow raised, as he stood up and offered it towards her. Lilly’s lips parted in a happy surprise, eyes brightening up from the sweet gesture. “A gift for me?” she asked with a smile, watching as he dropped it gently in her lap. She picked it up with her fingers to study it more intently, paying close attention to the detailed shape of a cat’s face. The meaning behind the necklace made Lilly even more excited over the present, knowing that being on good terms with those of Winter was very important if she was to help any of that season out in war without their hesitation.

As her eyes reached up to meet his, she was only met with his forehead, for he was looking away or at the ground. It wasn’t until this moment that she noticed him acting different, stranger than before. Did she upset him? Lilly sighed as she watched him rush out the door. It shut with a quick snap, making her jump at the sound.

“That was strange,” she muttered, tilting her head to the side as she paused before collecting herself once more. Lilly would ask him later what was wrong. Maybe he didn’t sleep as well as he said he did. Rolling off the bed sluggishly, she decided it was time to get dressed before he came back to get her for breakfast. Her nightgown wasn’t exactly appropriate to wear out of the room. Walking over to her backpack, she rummaged through the clothes she packed. Lilly pulled out a light pink baby doll dress with a floral pattern. She made it several years ago, and the fabric was pretty worn, but it fit perfectly against her tiny frame, and matched the same pink flats she had worn under her ball gown. She changed within minutes, walking over to the mirror against the wall. Lilly brushed her hair, taming the messy tangled waves until she appeared ready for the day. Nodding at herself pleased in the mirror.



Before stepping out the oak door, she travelled back to the bed where Orin’s necklace lay. She slipped it around her neck, proud that she was wearing a mark of respect that the Winter race would take note of. She would have to thank Orin for the gift again properly, seeing as how their quick encounter in her room only lasted a brief minute. Lilly stepped out of the room, shutting the door quietly behind her. She made her way down the hall, stopping in front of Orin’s door. She knocked several times in a row, a sign of excitement and to let him know it was a friend waiting on him outside.

The winter mage was more than a little startled when Kaylin appeared. She started to great him, but then for some reason she became worried and started touching him on his arms, forehead, and chest. Not only had he never seen anyone worried about his well being before, but he'd never had someone so willing to be close to him. It was different, but somehow comforting. This comfort was only reinforced as part of her cold aura washed over him. It was not the same as his, being much smaller, but it helped to calm him none the less. He smiled up at her, still unable to move from his prone position. "Isn't this a strange picture? The most feared man in all the known kingdoms bed ridden and helpless," Kira laughed.

The snow walker stared up at the ceiling, suddenly becoming serious. "Last night, I killed that beast. I have seen ones like it before, but actually fighting it was like nothing I could have imagined. And then after I killed it I was drained to within and inch of my life. I couldn't understand it before. That spell should not have affected me so. It was the poison. It felt like it was sucking at my energy; my life force. It was strange," he told her. Then he shifted and looked up into her eyes. "For the first time in my life, I was afraid to die." Kira wondered what she would think of him now. He wondered why he was sharing so much of himself with her. Yesterday he had been drawn into conversation with her as well. Kaylin had intrigued him. Had shown him more respect than he had deserved after the way he had spoken to her.

"Now a thought frightens me even more," Kira continued. "Next time there will be an army of them and I will have to use all of my might to help fend them off. I don't know if I can do it. The thought of what could happen if I lost control tears at me. You may not know it, but my abilities frighten me as much as everyone else if not more. I've even started to wonder what it would be like if they didn't come back. A power you dare not use is worse than no power at all."

Aaria touched her lip and eye absent-mindedly, giving a small grin. "These are nothing," She insisted, shaking her head. "But you really missed out last night. The King set a dangerous beast on all of the warriors who had to fight it. Well I say that, but actually I shot the arrow to free the creature so that we could kill it. Many of us gave it a shot, but we all failed, until Kira, the Snow Walker, actually managed to kill it, damaging himself in the process." Taking a deep breath, she rolled her eyes. "All very dramatic and that is how I recieved these bruises. I was much worse yesterday, but Lily and the Healer who helped you, Kiane, healed almost everyone, with some help from Genesis."

Narrowing her eyes, she crossed her arms. "I would love to hear what he has to say. I have the upmost respect for our King, but the move he made last night was dangerous." Sadly, she shook her head, eyes on the floor. "However, now we are prepared for the war and the Seasons have been united as one. That's what needs to happen and unfortunately I saw that point to late. No matter, everything is as it should be now." A twinge in her chest made her fall silent. No, I have not forgotten you Rein.

She watched as Romolus pointed out Kira from behind her. Shooting up she headed over, pulling the curtain back and stepping inside. "How are you two feeling?" She asked, tucking a strand of blonde hair behind her ear once again. "You both fought so well. And congratulations for slaying that awful beast." She smiled, but it was quick to fade. "I'm sorry for my brash words last night. I did not mean you any offence by the them, but I know I caused offence. However, my thoughts on you have most definately changed. And I wish only to look to the future."

"Aaria, get out of here." Kiane pulled back the curtain, an eyebrow raised. "He needs his rest and you're just trouble." She smiled, going over to embrace him. He was certainly taken back by her sudden hug, but he hugged her back, then put her at arm's length. "You look awful." He commented, noting the pale face and bruises.

"Same could be said for you." Aaria frowned, looking at him clearly for the first time. His face was not only paled, but bruised and cut beyond belief. "What happened to you?" Kiane dropped his hands, looking away. He did not answer, only turned to Kira and gave a small smile.
"How are you feeling today? Of course I'm not your doctor, but I thought I'd check in on you. We certainly had a scare with you last night." He asked, clipboard in hand, pen in the other. She glared at him, but he simply ignored her. Angrily, she turned, stalking back to Romolus.

The sun peaked over the horizon, it rays connected with Genesis' closed eyes, making him stir in his sleep. He opened one eye slowly not wanting to be blinded. He took in the small hustle in the town, though it was a small distance from where he was. He stretched his arms out slightly, he stopped as his chest tightened where the tentacles had hit him. He stood slowly trying not to cause too much discomfort. He rolled his bed mat up and retied it to the pack. I wonder where everyone else was staying last night. His stomach growling low, he smiled childishly, it had been awhile since he had eaten last. After he had packed up and double checked for anything he might have missed he walked off, heading back in the direction of the town. He felt better, rested at least a little, now was time for food.

As he walked he watched the people around him go about there business, nodding his head to those that made friendly gestures to him, walking about as the kids ran through the walkways and such, it made him smile again, seeing all the people going about their happy little lives, at least they knew that their king was trying to take care of business. He stopped short of the market place asking a nearby man where he could get some food and drink, after being pointed in the right direction he thanked the man and went off to find the Feasting hall.

After searching the area for a little bit taking note in the businesses and shops for later use, especially the tailor's shop, he needed another cloak, so as not to destroy his mothers gift. When he had arrived to the tavern he walked in, taking in the scene of people, some there to eat others there to drink and have a good time, even though it was just daylight a few moments ago. Genesis was hear for the earlier, food. He had waved down a waitress and asked for whatever for breakfast, just something to eat, he placed a few coins on the table, stating that whatever the amount could afford is what he wanted.

He sat back in his chair looking about the room, no one he had recognized from the last day, he only saw what looked like regular people about. He looked about the room one more time just in case he missed someone, when he didn't recognize anyone he just looked up at the ceiling of the tavern, waiting for his food, nothing else to do but wait and eat when the time came, when did the king want them back, he had missed that part, oh well, he'd have to find Lilly, Aaria, or one of the others before too long to see when the next meeting was.

As Romolus watched as Kiane closed the curtains and told Aaria that she was bothering Kira, he began to look through the side pocket of his cloak feeling something small .He took out a small necklace with a symbol on it from the pocket he felt it in .Romolus's facial expression changed to a impressed look as he inspected the details of the circular shape necklace, it had very detailed carvings that seemed to be from the past ages and had a deep vertical gash in the center along with a circle to make it appear as a scared eye, all the carved lines seemed to travel toward the center where the circle and the gash was.

After inspecting the necklace throughly he began to unhook the chain that kept the necklace together and put it around his furred neck and hooked it back together. Romolus let the necklace hang from his neck, but then started to have second thoughts about letting it hang freely, it might offend other folks of a different race like his cloak was doing to the winter race. Romolus lifted the symbol of the necklace with his left hand and put it inside his cloak to hide it from view but letting it still hang from his neck.

Romolus looked up to see Aaria stalking back to him “what’s wrong with you?”Romolus asked Aaria seeing she was a little upset. While he waited for the reply from Aaria the door of the infirmary flew open and two guards entered the room, carrying two men, each guard carrying one to a bed. When Romolus looked to see who the guards brought in his face grew a grin seeing it was the two winter warriors from earlier that had tried to attack him from behind.

Romolus looked back at Aaria still with a smirk on his face, while feeling the scars he had acquired from them yesterday. “So Aaria do you want to go meet with the king with me now or do you want to stay here? I ask you because we only have about forty minutes before the speech.” He asked Aaria while looking back at the two winter fighters that were brought in by the guards while waiting for Aaria’s reply. Both of the winter fighters seemed to stare at Romolus from their bed while Romolus gave the same stare back at both of them seemed to be still and only seemed to move to breath.

Kaylin smiled down at him as he talked, her eyes appreciative of what he had said. She touched a hand to his head, sweeping back his hair with ease; so he could see the people around him more easily. She worried about everyone briefly, in particular the Spring Maid and wondered if they would see her at the speech today. She shook her head mildly, knowing she should help the famous Snow walker, but how? She touched her hand to the bed, she was good with weather manipulation and imagined the permanent frost of their kingdom, how it sparkled in the sharp light, almost blinding. Where her hands touched the bed a small frost spread, touching one side of the Winter mage. She blinked rapidly as she did it, becoming disconnected from the world momentarily; her vision filled with ice. Her wild yellow eyes snapped back once more, clear and bright; looking more at peace.

She was about to say something when Aaria walked in, but pulled back knowing others would want to talk to the Hero. She nodded silent as a ghost, her eyes lighting on the way she moved, trying to pin point what she found interesting about the young warrior. She was taken a back when the doctor asked Aaria to leave the room, but made no move to follow, wanting to stay by her kinsman. She felt more than a little out of place here in the Palace of her once enemy and wished once again she had not been given to such a land. Her bright eyes darkened at the thought, but she kept her smile in place; a mask to hide behind. Her father would have laughed at how easily changed she was, a great warrior of their kind taken down by mere dislike. Her mother was gone now, taken from her side in one of the many wars, she would have loved to have seen this dark foe, felt the bite of its teeth and given it her return. She pulled her hand back through her hair, a nervous gesture much like her brothers and stood up to help Kira sit. She would have hated to have to look up at everyone.

“You should not be frightened to die, you do not know what lies behind that door. What you fear may be the thing that is best to happen, why taint it when no knowledge is known? “ She smiled bending over him. “Or at least that is what mother taught me as a child, it always stopped my tears at least.” She finished pilling up the pillows, plumping them as she went with an absent look on her face. She lent down with care, wrapping her arms under Kira’s prone form around the waist. She held him carefully, having done it with her mother and sister time after time in hospital tents, holding his chest lightly where it had been hurt. As she was about to let go, she let a drop of her own limited manna pass from her chest to his, a drop in the ocean but enough, she hoped, to kick start his rebuilding. She straitened up, setting him back on the bed so he was sitting, a blush on her cheeks. She had been taught from a young age how unwise it was to lend manna, how the people you lent it to do might do things you thought wrong or improper, but she could not let him feel so bad. She placed a finger over her lips, telling him not to say anything, if a nurse had caught her doing such a thing she would be in more than a little trouble.

“As for the war, you need not worry. Do you know why?” She asked tilting her head at him. “We will all be there to help… Can you not see how already people are seeing you more as a person than a story?” She asked, eyes flickering to see if he could move a little more now. She watched the rise and fall of his chest, feeling as though her words were foolish and young, but well she was young. One of the Winter Clan’s must have chased him out at a young age and she wondered who had been so stupid to let such a warrior out of their sights. If she never went home again she would send word to her father via Orin, saying that he should be spoken of more kindly. She would miss the story’s of her old land, how everyone had been so wild and free compared to those of Summer. She would mourn the loss of her culture and kind, but when the war was over, very little of Winter would stay and she knew this.

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His hand smoothed the big cats sides, marveling at the long thin strands that covered her body to keep her both warm and cool. She let out a light huff, telling him she was awake and he rested his head on her massive side with a smile knowing that she had not given him to much blood. He made thick noises in his throat, imitating her way of speaking as best he could, telling her soon he would bring her something nice to eat. He jumped lightly at the knock to the door and knew it was Lilly; he had stalled too long. He looked up at the mirror and was glad to see that he looked pretty good in his patterned green shirt; that as ever made his hair look a pale minty green. He pushed his hand through it, enjoying the feel of the silken strands between his fingers. He paused at the door, placing a smile on his face; he hoped that she had liked his gift.

“Hey, sorry I took so long, I became side tracked.” He smiled down at her, his eyes falling to his necklace “Please take care of it, my mother gave it to me… but it should help you. I hope you like it, if you don't I don't mind.. really. It’s the symbol of my clan, we are known for are warrior’s being on the ‘Gran Gato’ in war. That is why Kaylin and I have Sherridan.” He smiled blushing a faint green color and closed the door behind him. Most people could not tell when he blushed, unused as they were to seeing green blood rush to the surface of someone’s skin, he hoped that this would be the case with Lilly. He took her hand, tugging her still sleepy form along behind him. They did not however go through the main passages leading through the infirmary, today he wanted just a little peace before the King’s speech. Instead he led them down a dark narrow staircase, shown to him by one of the orderly on his first visit, as they approached it he noticed that the Spring Maid’s door was open, but made no comment. The staircase was narrow and steep, so he went ahead, knowing that if she tripped then he could catch her. Soon they burst out into the main courtyard, flooded with light and people getting ready for the speech.

“I think you will feel so much better after some food.” He told her, scanning the crowd. “I do not know if I mentioned it before, but you looked lovely yesterday and just as radiant today. I hope you don’t mind me saying.” Yet again a blush rose to his cheeks, but soon it dropped to pallor. His eyes fixed on the profile of his younger sister. He balked momentarily stopping mid stride, as soon as he did though he sped up, rushing them to the eating hall. His mind raced, it could only mean one thing that his sister was here, his father wanted him back. Her face was suspended in his mind, a younger form of Kaylin, almost identical apart from a scar that ran from her eye down her cheek and her disconcertingly black eyes. She had gotten the wound from his sister in a fight, but where he had healed Lin he had not done so for Moirrey. She had been a mean bitter child and had attacked his sister without reason, viciously almost maiming her. It was around the same time their father had chosen him a heir and now he was sorry for his act of unkindness. All they had to do was stay apart till the vows were taken, they could not be changed.

“Sorry.” He ducked his head in apology “Do you mind me getting stuff for my sister as well?” He asked trying to cover for his thoughts. He passed a plate to her, carrying two for him and his sister along one arm. He smiled at the puzzled look from the cooks and served the delicious food onto the plates, keeping them steady with ease. He piled Kaylin’s plate high with lots of meats bacon and sausages, anything high in protein as she burnt through energy unlike anyone he knew. On his own he places a fish, some bread and a boiled egg, not wanting to eat anything that might make him ill again. He glanced up, a grin on his face as he looked at the necklace about Lilly’s neck, he really did hope she liked it. As soon as they were done he would tell Lin both of giving away such a precious thing and of the sight of their younger sibling.

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Moirrey looked around the room, her eyes catching on her reflection. She smiled admiring herself vainly and stroked a hand down her long fall of white hair that came almost to her hips, flowing freely about her slender body. She loved how she looked, despite the thin line of a scar; she was in her opinion far more beautiful than her elder sister. Her body was slightly curvier, letting people know that she was not boy like despite her hard training. Her eyes were an almost red black, she loved them the most, the way that people looked into them with fear written across their face. She tapped her long white nails on the table, waiting for her food to be ready while she admired herself shamelessly. She was less than happy at having come all this way to bring back her stupid elder brother. She smiled at the cook who handed her plate with sharp teeth, laughing to herself at the way he didn’t seem to want to get to close to her.

“Thank you.” She said snatching the plate out his hand with a quick motion. She took a quick look around the room and decided on the Autumn born man. Her eyes fixed on him, knowing all to well how her sibling would have liked to have met him. She cut through the crowd like a shark through water, moving with strong confident strides. She stopped before his table, motions abrupt and bowed deeply, balancing her plate in one hand. She looked about her and shook her head, it was not the first time she had cut, but she did not recognize where she was. She knew however that this man was the right one, which is why she was now here, rather than in the palace. She put the plate down with care on the wooden table, moving her heavy ceremonial dress about her so she could sit with ease, being delicate with the fine silk garment.

“I hope you don’t mind me sitting with you Autumn born.” She told him sitting down finally. “You look to be one of the warriors of the King, what are you doing so far from the palace?” She asked sharply, picking up her fork to eat the food, still hot from the palace ovens. She placed the meat in her mouth, letting the taste melt on her tongue, it had after all been specially cooked for her. Chewed it daintily, never taking her deep red eyes off the man before her. She watched his reactions with interest, wondering all the while why her family had such a thing for their oddities. Though the man was interesting, he hardly seemed special enough to weren’t the care they would have taken with him. Her mind sunk into silence thinking of her brother as head of the Clan and shuddered.
http://hellobaby.deviantart.com/art/Lying-Down-129956135
(third edit!)

"Nothing, don't worry," Aaria said, though her voice was distracted, her eyes wandering to the curtain that concealed the trio. Glaring for a moment, she thought back to last night. Kiane had helped her, handed her the weapons she need to kill the beast. Then he had disappeared when everyone needed him the most. However, when he had returned there wasn't a scratch on him, nor a bruise. So what had caused such injuries in the small time that had passed? Who had attacked the Healer? And why had he not healed himself, or had Lily do it for him?

Suddenly the door burst open and two guards came in, carrying two bodies. Frowning, she craned her neck, attempting to get a better view. Nurses hurried to help, pulling curtains behind them so that the warriors were blocked from view. But not before Aaria got a glimpse. They were two Winter warriors and they looked extremely badly beaten up. Muttering to herself, she went back into her daydream, eyes staring off into the distance. Kiane troubled her. He had not warned her of the beast and yet he had known all about it the whole time. He was certainly puzzling and she intended to discover what she could about him. A sudden anger bubbled inside of her, causing her to bite her lip furiously, attempting to keep it under control.

Absent-mindedly, she turned her head to Romolus, her eyes unfocused. Snapping out of it, she shook her head, keeping a clamp on her anger. Her words were strained. "I think I'll give it a miss Romolus. I shall undoubtedly get angry if I am faced with our Majesty at the moment and I'd rather I heard what he had to say before I spoke to him." Shrugging, she inclined her head slightly. "I am glad that I have seen you though and that you are safe and well." Getting to her feet she gave him a brief hug, before hurrying out of the Infirmary door at a mighty speed.

Once outside she let out an angry growl, before stalking out of the castle. She hated being confined by its endless walls and gloomy halls. It felt like a prison that was going to crush her into nothing at all. She had to escape and she had to do it now. One thing Aaria really hated was people keeping secrets from her. And Kiane was hiding something. He had helped her and yet he wasn't sharing everything. She didn't want to see him hurt, but someone was hurting him. Plus there was the King and his intentions last night. She knew he had meant well, but she was angered by his choice in actions. But like the Spring Maid had said, they were now united as one. But would everyone get along? Her mind flashed back to the two warriors in the Infirmary.

Sitting against the wall, near to the castle gate, Aaria closed her eyes, head on knees. She ran her hand through the soft grass that lay around the area she had chosen. An old oak shaded her from the hot sun that beamed down from the flawless blue sky, not a cloud in site. The wall was hot on her back, but she couldn't care less. She was out in the open and free of the castle. Her blonde hair fell around her, impatiently she tucked it back, before straightening up and stretching her legs out in front of her.