Disclaimer: All the charactors are property of clamp. I do not own them.
Brave at Heart
Chapter 1
Hikaru ran out of her house with her dog, Hikari, behind her. She wore a red sweater and black skirt
with black shoes. She was about to leave when she heard a soft bark. She stopped and bent down behind her dog
and patted his head. "Sorry Hikari but I'm meeting Umi and Fuu today." She said softly. The dog whined a bit but
then licked her once and ran back inside. Hikaru smiled and then looked at her watch. "OH NO I'M GOING TO BE LATE!"
she gasped running as fast as she could. It hadn't been long since there last visit to Cephiro. The girls hadn't
been there for two weeks. It was Saturday so the girls were free to visit their friends from the other world.
Hikaru panted as she saw Tokyo Towers come into view. She then saw two girls standing outside. One girl had blond
brown hair and green eyes with glasses. She wore a white blouse with a green vest; she wore a short green skirt and
black shoes. The other girl had long blue hair and eyes. She had on a white blouse and a blue jacket; she wore a long
blue skirt and black tights. Also she had blue boots on that laced up. "UMI! FUU!" shouted Hikaru happily. "Hi Hikaru!"
said Umi. Hikaru ran and hugged both girls. "Hello Miss Hikaru." Said Fuu. "Your late today." Said Umi. Hikaru panted and
tried to catch her breath. When she did she said, "I had to finish my chores and washing Hikari was hard." Said Hikaru.
Umi smiled and held out her basket. "I baked a lot of goodies so let's get going." The three girls smiled and headed inside
Tokyo Towers. Once inside they held hands and concentrated on going to Cephiro.
In a flash of light the girls disappeared from the tower. It was quick and the girls instantly appeared in Castle Cephiro.
The girls smiled and looked around. "Hello." Said a voice. The turned to see a greened haired man in long flowing robes sitting
in a chair with two other people. "Ferio!" said Fuu happy to see him. Ferio smiled and got up. He hugged Fuu and then greeted
Hikaru and Umi. "Hi Ascot." Said Umi "Hi Presea." The two others got up and smiled. "Hey how are you girls?" asked Ascot. "Were
great." Replied Hikaru. Ascot smiled and walked over to the girls. He wore his regular flowing robes and puffy hat. Presea was
wearing her white dress she wore when she made the weapons for the knights. "It's been a while." Said Presea. "Yeah we thought
you guys weren't coming back." Joked Ferio. "We could never forget you guys!" said Hikaru. Umi then cleared her throat and held
up her basket. "I made a lot of goodies so let's gather everyone up and have a tea party." She said.
Presea nodded and then turned to Ferio and Ascot. "I'll go get everyone. You guys should help set up." She said. Ferio and
Ascot nodded. Presea then left closing the door behind her. "I'll go set the table." Said Fuu. "I'll help." volunteered Ferio. The
two then walked off to get plates. Hikaru bit her lip. "Umi I'm going to go see Eagle I'll be back to set up." She assured her friend.
"Take your time Hikaru we got it covered." Said Umi giving her a thumb up. Hikaru smiled and then left the room. Umi then turned to
Ascot. His face was a bit red but he looked away. "You can help me make tea then." Said Umi. Ascot nodded and turned a bit redder.
Umi slipped her hand into his. "Come on!" Umi said tugging him along. He smiled and followed her to the kitchen.
Ferio pulled out a few plates and cup from the cabinet and placed them on the table. Fuu set them nicely. When they were finished
Ferio took Fuu's hand and smiled. "I missed you." He whispered. Fuu blushed and she held her other to her chest. "You still wear my ring?"
he asked. "I never take it off." Fuu said softly. Ferio stroked her cheek and then kissed her softly. "Ferio..." she whispered. He then
hugged her tightly not wanting to let her go.
He then loosened his grip on her. His golden eyes staring into her deep green eyes. "Fuu... I love you." He whispered. Fuu went
slightly pink and then opened her mouth to say something but Ferio stopped her. He pressed his middle and index finger to her lips. "Fuu...
I want to ask you something." Ferio said taking her hand and kneeling down. "It will make me the happiest and luckiest man in Cephiro if
you marry me." He then kissed her hand and slipped on another ring. Fuu gasped and couldn't believe it. She loved Ferio but, she was only
sixteen and she couldn't stay with him or her family would worry too much for her. "Ferio..." Fuu said shaking a bit. "Give me your answer
later." He then kissed her again left. Fuu held her hand and looked sadly to the ground.
Umi picked up the metal teapot and poured the tea into ceramic one. "Thanks for helping me!" She said looking over at Ascot. Ascot
gulped and then nodded. "No problem." He said. Umi was about to pick up the tray when Ascot stopped her. "Uh Umi I um... Umi..." He stuttered.
Umi looked at him. He was bright red and sweating. "Ascot?" asked Umi. She walked over to him and touched his forehead. "Are you sick?" she
asked. Ascot shook his head and tried to say something. "I think you should lay down you look sick." Said Umi. Just then Caldina entered the
room. "Well there ya are I've been waiting to see ya'" she said.
Ascot groaned slightly as Caldina hugged Umi. "I missed you little missies." She said. "Yeah we missed all of you too." Said Umi. Ascot
then took the tray of tea and walked out without another word. "Ascot?" asked Umi. Caldina glanced over to him and then back at Umi. She then
grinned. "Come on or we'll be late." She said taking Umi's hand.
The door creaked open and Hikaru poked her head through. "Eagle?" she said looking at the sleeping figure. "Hello Hikaru." Said his voice
telepathically. "Its been a while since you've come to see me am I boring you?" Hikaru walked over to him and said, "No way!" Eagle chuckled.
Hikaru kneeled next to his bed and took his hand. "How are you?" she asked. "Stronger... soon Hikaru... I'll open my eyes... I can feel it." He said.
Hikaru smiled. "I can't wait until you can talk and get out of bed." Said Hikaru. Eagle breathed and Hikaru watched him. She held his hand tighter and
then kissed it. "Hikaru... when I wake up" he began. "I want you to be the first person I see." Hikaru looked surprised and then smiled.
"Eagle I want to see your golden eyes... your eyes that are no longer sad." She said. She then hugged Eagle. When she broke away she covered him
back up. Just as she did the door opened. Hikaru spun around and saw Lantis. "Hello Lantis." Said Hikaru. Lantis smiled and then he could here Eagle giggling.
"The party is starting." Said Lantis. "Oh have a good time." Said Eagle with a small laugh. "Thanks Eagle I'll come back later." Said Hikaru walking toward
the door with Lantis. "Hikaru..." said Eagle quickly. She turned to face him. "When I wake up make sure there are some sweets waiting for me." He said.
Hikaru smiled. "Okay."
Everything was seated at the table enjoying Umi's desserts. They chatted a bit about old times, laughed, and then ate. "Hey would you missies like to
spend the night here it be fun." Said Caldina. "It be like old times." Said Presea. "We miss you girls." Hikaru, Umi, and Fuu looked at each other and smiled.
"We'll stay we just have to tell are parents were sleeping at each other's houses." Said Fuu. Everyone smiled and then finished eating.
Inside Cephiro's airspace was a huge ship. But unlike the invaders ships this one was invisible. It floated there as if it was waiting for something.
Inside the ship were several guards all wearing black clothes, visors, and holding different type of weapons. Inside the main room was a black throne like
thing. Sitting in it was a man with long black hair and dark brown eyes. He wore a black shirt with black pants. He had long cape and black gloves on. Next
to him were two other men. One had spiky brown red hair and light brown eyes. He wore a black sleeveless shirt and pants. On his head were black visors.
The second guy had dirty blond hair and his visor was down. He had on a long sleeved black turtleneck and pants. His belt was brown and had several pouches all over.
In front of the three men was a screen and on the screen was Castle Cephiro. "So the knight's are back?" said the dirty blond haired man. "Yes, but there powerless
to stop us." Said the brown/red haired man. "The only one we should worry about it the Guru." The black haired man laughed. "No need to worry about him." He said
with a smile. "His magic won't be strong enough to stop us." The other two men chuckled. "Prepare the men for battle." Said the Black haired man.
The others nodded and left.
That night Umi crept into the out of her bed and walked around the castle. She wasn't sleepy. She walked down the darkened hallway trying to find the kitchen to
get some water. When she reached the kitchen she saw a light coming from inside. She looked through the small crack and saw Ascot sitting there. He rocked back and forth
in his chair as if he was thinking. Umi opened the door and instantly Ascot turned around. "Hello Ascot." Said Umi. "U-U-Umi what are you doing up?" Ascot said going a
bit red at the cheeks. "I couldn't sleep I though about getting some water." She replied walking in. "And you?" Ascot became a bit hot and he bit his lip. "Just
thinking." He squeaked. Umi nodded and got herself some water.
Ascot sat back down and folded his hands on the table. He looked at them and tapped his foot. "Can I join you?" asked Umi. "S-s-sure." He stuttered. Umi smiled
and sat down. Ascot remained quiet for a moment. "So how's everything been?" asked Umi sipping her water. "F-fine." Said Ascot looking a bit away. Umi glanced at him.
"Ascot are you okay?" she asked. Ascot looked at her and he his cheeks were hot red. "UMI I-I-I LOVE YOU!" he shouted. Umi gasped but couldn't say anything. Then as
fast as lighting Ascot bolted from the room and down the hall. Umi stood there staring. "Ascot..." she whispered. She bit her lip and looked down. "Oh Ascot..." she said.
She then ran to go find him.
Fuu sat in her room lost in thought. She stared at the engagement ring Ferio had given her. "I can't marry him..." she said sadly. "I love Ferio but if I say yes
I'll have to choose between my family and him." Tears slid down her cheeks. She buried her face in her hands and cried. She sat there pondering what to do. Just then there
was a knock on the door. Fuu slipped out of bed, opened it a crack, and peeked out the door. She saw Ferio. "Hi Fuu." He whispered. Fuu gave him a small smiled and opened
the door to let him in. Once inside Ferio turned to her and smiled.
"Have you decided?" he asked. Fuu looked down. "I thought hard." She replied. Ferio bit his lip. "And?" he asked. Fuu looked at him. She then took his hand and said,
"Ferio... I..." she then turned away. Ferio looked down in his hand and saw the ring he gave her. Ferio looked away from Fuu. "You've decided." He asked. "I'm sorry." Fuu
said not able to face him. Ferio nodded and then began to leave but he stopped right next to her. "I understand." He then ran out of the room. Fuu looked at him and saw tears
falling. He ran quickly away. Fuu fell to her knees and then cried. She then fell to the floor and crumpled up into a ball and cried uncontrollable. "Ferio... I love... you."
She cried.
Hikaru slipped out of her room and slowly crept down the hallway. In her hands she carried a box full of sweets. When she got to her destination she slowly opened the
door to the room and walked in. She looked at Eagle lying on the bed. "Eagle?" Hikaru said softly. "Hikaru?" Eagle replied. "Its late. Why are you up? Is something troubling
you?" Hikaru walked over to him. "I couldn't sleep so I decided to come see you... since well I thought..." Hikaru tried to explain. Eagle laughed telepathically. Hikaru
smiled and sat on the bed next to him.
"I brought you some sweets for when you wake up." She said. "I'll leave them on the side table so if I'm not here at least one of the things you want when you wake
is here." Eagle breathed. "Thank you." He replied. Hikaru set the sweets on the table. She then slid her hand onto Eagle's. "I'm glad you came." He whispered. "Why?" Hikaru
asked innocently. Eagle didn't respond. Hikaru stood up and then smiled. "Your going to wake up soon aren't you?" she asked. "Yes." He responded happily. Hikaru smiled and
then hugged him. "I have to go it's late." She said. "Pleasant dreams sweet Hikaru." He said. Hikaru blushed and walked out.
As she walked out into the hallway she saw Lantis leaning against the wall. "LANTIS!" she said loudly. Lantis looked at her. "I thought you were asleep." Hikaru said.
Lantis placed his arm around her and led her too her room. "I wasn't tired." He said. Hikaru nodded and held his hand. "Eagle is going to awake soon." Said Hikaru happily.
Lantis smiled. "He's strong like you." Lantis said. "I know he'll awake soon." Hikaru smiled and thanked Lantis for walking her to her room.
Ascot stopped in the courtyard and groaned. "I feel so stupid." He said miserably. "Why is that sugah?" said voice. Ascot turned around to see Caldina.
"What are you doing here?" he gasped. Caldina was sitting in a tree looking at him. Caldina jumped down and looked at him. She walked over to him and said, "I saw
you running and well I'd figure you'd be out here." She said giving him a smile. Ascot looked down. Caldina looked at him and raised a brow. "What's wrong Ascot?"
she asked. Ascot sighed and sat down on a rock. "I finally told Umi how I fell about her." He said. "And?" asked Caldina. "She stared at me and then I ran out."
He said miserably. "Did she say anything back?" asked Caldina. Ascot was silent.
Suddenly there was a huge explosion. Ascot and Caldina bolted up and saw a huge section of the castle break apart. The whole section was about to topple all over
them. Caldina screamed. Ascot waved his hand and a huge beast appeared. The monster covered both Caldina and Ascot from being crushed. When the last parts of the castle
fell away, Ascot made his monster disappear. "What happened?" asked Caldina. Suddenly there were screams coming from the castle.
Fuu screamed with terror as several people entered her room. All of them wearing were a different style of black clothes. "STAY AWAY!" she shouted. Fuu grabbed
a vase that was in her room and through it at them. One man through it aside and then pulled out a pellet and tossed it at Fuu. It hit the ground near her and smoke
filled the area around her. Fuu coughed and stumbled to get away. "Can't breath..." she mumbled. She watched as the men came closer. She screamed as loud as she could but
she was weak. She needed help. Ferio she thought. He won't come for me. Tears slid down her cheeks and with all her might she screamed, "FERIO!"
Ferio and Lafarga tried to fight there way through the crowds of men but they were to strong. Ferio used his sword to try and fight them off but they were
faster. The used there pellets to make smoke screens. Lafarga's eyes watered as he squinted to see. He then saw someone behind Ferio ready to stab him. "PRINCE!"
he shouted. Lafarga then pushed him out of the way. Ferio fell out of the cloud of smoke and heard a deep scream. He looked up and saw the smoke clear away. The
men were gone and Lafarga was lying on the ground bleeding. "LAFARGA!" shouted Ferio running to his side. 'Are you all right?" asked Lafarga in pain. "FERIO!"
Ferio looked up and gasped. "FUU!" he shouted.
He began to help Lafarga up when he stopped him. "No, go help her." He said. "But..." Ferio began. "I'll be fine. He glanced over and saw Caldina
and Presea heading their way. Ferio nodded and let him down and went to go help Fuu. "Lafarga!" Caldina said running to his side. "Are you all right?" asked
Presea. Lafarga cringed in pain. "My arm." He said. "What about Ferio?" asked Caldina. "He went to go help Fuu." Said Lafarga in pain. Caldina held onto him and
wrapped her shawl around his arm. She hugged him closely as he passed out.
Umi screamed as several men surrounded her. "GET AWAY FROM ME!" she shouted. One of the men grabbed her arms. Umi struggled and tried to get away. One
then took out a pellet and tossed it on Umi and ropes appeared and tied her down. Umi fell down and was then tossed over one of the guys' shoulders. Umi
shrieked in terror. Just then a huge monster appeared. The men gasped and jumped away. One tossed a pellet at the monster and then it fell to the ground and
disappeared. Ascot then came up and looked at his monster. "ASCOT!" Umi shouted. Ascot gasped and used his lighting attack but the guys blocked it. Ascot gasped
but the guys in black tossed down several pellets destroying a wall. Then the jumped out with Umi. "ASCOT!" Umi screamed. Ascot gasped and shouted, "UMI!"
"Clef!" Hikaru shouted getting behind him. "Where did they come from?" Clef held out his staff and sent out lighting bolts at them. "I don't know."
He responded. Just then someone jumped in the air and sent a laser blast at them. Hikaru ducked down. But Clef used his shield. The laser fizzled and went
out. Clef then began to chant but one of the guys pulled out another gun. He then fired it at Clef and this time it broke his shield and hit him. "CLEF!"
Hikaru screamed. Clef's eyes glossy and his body rigid. Clef was paralyzed. Just then one of the guys came and was about to grab Hikaru when the doors opened.
The men turned and saw Lantis. His sword was out and sent a blast at them. The jumped away and Hikaru looked at him and smiled. "LANTIS!" she called.
"Clef is hurt!" Lantis took a step toward them but someone grabbed him by the neck and began to choke him. "LANTIS!" shouted Hikaru. She began to get up
but someone grabbed her by the arm and pulled her toward him. Hikaru yelped and tried to break away but she was unable too. He then dragged Hikaru to the
window and blasted it to pieces. He then walked over to it and tossed Hikaru out. She screamed as she fell and Lantis gasped. He ran to the window as the men
jumped out too. When he looked out they were gone.
Lantis slammed his fist against the wall and cursed loudly. "DAMN!" he shouted. He then turned to see Clef. He ran over to him and helped him up.
"Guru?" he asked. Clef's eyes were open but no one responded. "What have they done to you?" he gasped. Just then Ascot, Ferio, and the others came into the room.
"Fuu and Umi were kidnapped." Said Ascot. Lantis groaned. "So was Hikaru." He said sadly. The others gasped but Hikaru's scream still echoed.
In the darkened untouched room. The sounds of the screaming girls filled the room. Eagle eyes flashed open. He jumped up and gasped.
"Hikaru!" he shouted.
Hikaru, Umi, and Fuu awoke in a room in the same bed. There pajamas were gone and in place were different clothes. Hikaru's was a sleeveless
white dress with a gold breastplate. A pink shawl wrapped around her arms. She had chokers and earrings on as well. Umi's dress was also white but
with sleeves that fell of her shoulders. Her breastplate was also gold. Her headband was gold with a blue jewel in the center. She also had a gold choker
and earring on. A blue shawl wrapped around her arms as well. Fuu wore a white dress, that was sleeveless and turtleneck like, and a green shawl was
wrapped around her arms. Around her waist was a gold chain and her headband was gold and ribbons on each side. Her breastplate was gold as well as
her earring.
"Where are we?" asked Umi. "These clothes are strange." Said Fuu fixing her glasses. Hikaru slipped out of the bed and ran to the door but
it was locked. "We're trapped." Hikaru said. Just then the door opened and a women with blond hair, dressed in tight black leather, and a visor over
eyes walked in. "Alright you girls get up know!" she ordered. "HEY WHERE ARE WE!" Umi shouted. "TELL US!" The women pulled out her gun and shot Umi.
Umi fell in pain and gasped. "Miss Umi!" Fuu Cried. The woman then took Hikaru and shoved her out of the room. "Get going you little brat!" she ordered.
Fuu helped Umi up and the limped out the door. The walked strait until they came to a door. The door opened and The three girls were pushed in.
They looked up in front of them and saw three men. One of them was sitting and the two others standing. Umi growled and shouted, "WHO ARE
YOU!" Umi was then shoved from behind and fell to the floor. "Silence!" shouted the women. Umi groaned. The women then walked up to the men and
smiled. "The Magic Knight's my lords." She said bowing to him. "Well done Kurai." He said with a smile. Kurai smiled and then kissed the man sittings
hand.
"My lord, I only wish to please you." Kurai said. Hikaru stood up while Fuu held onto Umi. "I want to know who you are and why did you
kidnap us!" Hikaru said glaring at them. Kurai spun around and was about to strike Hikaru when someone grabbed her hand. The man with brown/red
hair stopped him. "Kurai go find something constructive to do." He said. "We wish to talk to the knight's alone." Kurai gave a low growl but left.
When she was gone the man with black hair that was sitting stood up. "Welcome magic knights to your new home." He said with a twisted smile.
Hikaru gasped and looked back at Umi and Fuu whose mouths were hanging. "I'm Kenzi." He said. "And these are my brothers, Eri and Siaji."
Eri was the red/brown haired man and Siaji was the dirty blond.
Eri took Fuu by the wrist and pulled her away from Umi. "LET HER GO!" Hikaru shouted. Eri ignored her and placed a gold bracelet with a green jewel
in the center on her. Fuu gasped and slapped him hard across the face and tried to run away but she stopped short unable to move. "FUU!" Umi screamed.
Fuu was then dragged away by Eri to a door on the left. Then before she new Umi had a bracelet with a blue gem in the center on her. Saiji then dragged
her away to a door on the right. "LET THEM GO!" Hikaru shouted. She ran to Kenzi in attempt to hit him but he grabbed her by the wrists. Hikaru gasped and
tried to break free but he was too strong. He then forced her into a bracelet with a red gem on it. "Why are you doing this?" Asked Hikaru. "Because my
brothers and I always get what we want." He said. "And what we want is Cephiro and the Magic Knights."
Kenzi then pulled Hikaru dragged Hikaru through a room and down a hall. He then opened a door and pushed her inside. Hikaru fell to the ground and
groaned. "This is where you'll be staying, Hikaru." He said. "I'll come see you later." He then shut the door and locked it. Hikaru gasped and got up. She
banged on the door and began shouting, "LET ME OUT!" She then began to cry as her banging came softer and softer. "Someone help me..." she cried.
Back at Castle Cephiro Lantis, Ferio, and Ascot managed to get Clef and Lafarga into separate beds. Lafarga's arm and shoulder were bandaged up.
Clef on the other hand was still paralyzed or unconscious. Presea watched over Clef placing a moistened cloth on his head hoping it would help. Caldina was
clutching her bloodstained shawls and holding Lafarga. "Are the girls really gone?" asked Presea. "No trace of them anywhere." Said Ferio. "And without
Clef there is no way to tell where they are." Presea looked down and began to weep.
"I believe there still here." Said a voice from the door. Everyone turned to see Eagle walking in. He was in his black clothes and he had a stern
look. "Eagle... but how?" asked Lantis. "I found my strength and was able to awaken." He said. "No time for a chit chat we must find Hikaru and her friends."
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Authors Note: That's it for chapter one. I'll post chapter two when I'm done. I hope you all like it so far.
Well that's all for know. Ja ne!
Brave at Heart
Chapter 1
Hikaru ran out of her house with her dog, Hikari, behind her. She wore a red sweater and black skirt
with black shoes. She was about to leave when she heard a soft bark. She stopped and bent down behind her dog
and patted his head. "Sorry Hikari but I'm meeting Umi and Fuu today." She said softly. The dog whined a bit but
then licked her once and ran back inside. Hikaru smiled and then looked at her watch. "OH NO I'M GOING TO BE LATE!"
she gasped running as fast as she could. It hadn't been long since there last visit to Cephiro. The girls hadn't
been there for two weeks. It was Saturday so the girls were free to visit their friends from the other world.
Hikaru panted as she saw Tokyo Towers come into view. She then saw two girls standing outside. One girl had blond
brown hair and green eyes with glasses. She wore a white blouse with a green vest; she wore a short green skirt and
black shoes. The other girl had long blue hair and eyes. She had on a white blouse and a blue jacket; she wore a long
blue skirt and black tights. Also she had blue boots on that laced up. "UMI! FUU!" shouted Hikaru happily. "Hi Hikaru!"
said Umi. Hikaru ran and hugged both girls. "Hello Miss Hikaru." Said Fuu. "Your late today." Said Umi. Hikaru panted and
tried to catch her breath. When she did she said, "I had to finish my chores and washing Hikari was hard." Said Hikaru.
Umi smiled and held out her basket. "I baked a lot of goodies so let's get going." The three girls smiled and headed inside
Tokyo Towers. Once inside they held hands and concentrated on going to Cephiro.
In a flash of light the girls disappeared from the tower. It was quick and the girls instantly appeared in Castle Cephiro.
The girls smiled and looked around. "Hello." Said a voice. The turned to see a greened haired man in long flowing robes sitting
in a chair with two other people. "Ferio!" said Fuu happy to see him. Ferio smiled and got up. He hugged Fuu and then greeted
Hikaru and Umi. "Hi Ascot." Said Umi "Hi Presea." The two others got up and smiled. "Hey how are you girls?" asked Ascot. "Were
great." Replied Hikaru. Ascot smiled and walked over to the girls. He wore his regular flowing robes and puffy hat. Presea was
wearing her white dress she wore when she made the weapons for the knights. "It's been a while." Said Presea. "Yeah we thought
you guys weren't coming back." Joked Ferio. "We could never forget you guys!" said Hikaru. Umi then cleared her throat and held
up her basket. "I made a lot of goodies so let's gather everyone up and have a tea party." She said.
Presea nodded and then turned to Ferio and Ascot. "I'll go get everyone. You guys should help set up." She said. Ferio and
Ascot nodded. Presea then left closing the door behind her. "I'll go set the table." Said Fuu. "I'll help." volunteered Ferio. The
two then walked off to get plates. Hikaru bit her lip. "Umi I'm going to go see Eagle I'll be back to set up." She assured her friend.
"Take your time Hikaru we got it covered." Said Umi giving her a thumb up. Hikaru smiled and then left the room. Umi then turned to
Ascot. His face was a bit red but he looked away. "You can help me make tea then." Said Umi. Ascot nodded and turned a bit redder.
Umi slipped her hand into his. "Come on!" Umi said tugging him along. He smiled and followed her to the kitchen.
Ferio pulled out a few plates and cup from the cabinet and placed them on the table. Fuu set them nicely. When they were finished
Ferio took Fuu's hand and smiled. "I missed you." He whispered. Fuu blushed and she held her other to her chest. "You still wear my ring?"
he asked. "I never take it off." Fuu said softly. Ferio stroked her cheek and then kissed her softly. "Ferio..." she whispered. He then
hugged her tightly not wanting to let her go.
He then loosened his grip on her. His golden eyes staring into her deep green eyes. "Fuu... I love you." He whispered. Fuu went
slightly pink and then opened her mouth to say something but Ferio stopped her. He pressed his middle and index finger to her lips. "Fuu...
I want to ask you something." Ferio said taking her hand and kneeling down. "It will make me the happiest and luckiest man in Cephiro if
you marry me." He then kissed her hand and slipped on another ring. Fuu gasped and couldn't believe it. She loved Ferio but, she was only
sixteen and she couldn't stay with him or her family would worry too much for her. "Ferio..." Fuu said shaking a bit. "Give me your answer
later." He then kissed her again left. Fuu held her hand and looked sadly to the ground.
Umi picked up the metal teapot and poured the tea into ceramic one. "Thanks for helping me!" She said looking over at Ascot. Ascot
gulped and then nodded. "No problem." He said. Umi was about to pick up the tray when Ascot stopped her. "Uh Umi I um... Umi..." He stuttered.
Umi looked at him. He was bright red and sweating. "Ascot?" asked Umi. She walked over to him and touched his forehead. "Are you sick?" she
asked. Ascot shook his head and tried to say something. "I think you should lay down you look sick." Said Umi. Just then Caldina entered the
room. "Well there ya are I've been waiting to see ya'" she said.
Ascot groaned slightly as Caldina hugged Umi. "I missed you little missies." She said. "Yeah we missed all of you too." Said Umi. Ascot
then took the tray of tea and walked out without another word. "Ascot?" asked Umi. Caldina glanced over to him and then back at Umi. She then
grinned. "Come on or we'll be late." She said taking Umi's hand.
The door creaked open and Hikaru poked her head through. "Eagle?" she said looking at the sleeping figure. "Hello Hikaru." Said his voice
telepathically. "Its been a while since you've come to see me am I boring you?" Hikaru walked over to him and said, "No way!" Eagle chuckled.
Hikaru kneeled next to his bed and took his hand. "How are you?" she asked. "Stronger... soon Hikaru... I'll open my eyes... I can feel it." He said.
Hikaru smiled. "I can't wait until you can talk and get out of bed." Said Hikaru. Eagle breathed and Hikaru watched him. She held his hand tighter and
then kissed it. "Hikaru... when I wake up" he began. "I want you to be the first person I see." Hikaru looked surprised and then smiled.
"Eagle I want to see your golden eyes... your eyes that are no longer sad." She said. She then hugged Eagle. When she broke away she covered him
back up. Just as she did the door opened. Hikaru spun around and saw Lantis. "Hello Lantis." Said Hikaru. Lantis smiled and then he could here Eagle giggling.
"The party is starting." Said Lantis. "Oh have a good time." Said Eagle with a small laugh. "Thanks Eagle I'll come back later." Said Hikaru walking toward
the door with Lantis. "Hikaru..." said Eagle quickly. She turned to face him. "When I wake up make sure there are some sweets waiting for me." He said.
Hikaru smiled. "Okay."
Everything was seated at the table enjoying Umi's desserts. They chatted a bit about old times, laughed, and then ate. "Hey would you missies like to
spend the night here it be fun." Said Caldina. "It be like old times." Said Presea. "We miss you girls." Hikaru, Umi, and Fuu looked at each other and smiled.
"We'll stay we just have to tell are parents were sleeping at each other's houses." Said Fuu. Everyone smiled and then finished eating.
Inside Cephiro's airspace was a huge ship. But unlike the invaders ships this one was invisible. It floated there as if it was waiting for something.
Inside the ship were several guards all wearing black clothes, visors, and holding different type of weapons. Inside the main room was a black throne like
thing. Sitting in it was a man with long black hair and dark brown eyes. He wore a black shirt with black pants. He had long cape and black gloves on. Next
to him were two other men. One had spiky brown red hair and light brown eyes. He wore a black sleeveless shirt and pants. On his head were black visors.
The second guy had dirty blond hair and his visor was down. He had on a long sleeved black turtleneck and pants. His belt was brown and had several pouches all over.
In front of the three men was a screen and on the screen was Castle Cephiro. "So the knight's are back?" said the dirty blond haired man. "Yes, but there powerless
to stop us." Said the brown/red haired man. "The only one we should worry about it the Guru." The black haired man laughed. "No need to worry about him." He said
with a smile. "His magic won't be strong enough to stop us." The other two men chuckled. "Prepare the men for battle." Said the Black haired man.
The others nodded and left.
That night Umi crept into the out of her bed and walked around the castle. She wasn't sleepy. She walked down the darkened hallway trying to find the kitchen to
get some water. When she reached the kitchen she saw a light coming from inside. She looked through the small crack and saw Ascot sitting there. He rocked back and forth
in his chair as if he was thinking. Umi opened the door and instantly Ascot turned around. "Hello Ascot." Said Umi. "U-U-Umi what are you doing up?" Ascot said going a
bit red at the cheeks. "I couldn't sleep I though about getting some water." She replied walking in. "And you?" Ascot became a bit hot and he bit his lip. "Just
thinking." He squeaked. Umi nodded and got herself some water.
Ascot sat back down and folded his hands on the table. He looked at them and tapped his foot. "Can I join you?" asked Umi. "S-s-sure." He stuttered. Umi smiled
and sat down. Ascot remained quiet for a moment. "So how's everything been?" asked Umi sipping her water. "F-fine." Said Ascot looking a bit away. Umi glanced at him.
"Ascot are you okay?" she asked. Ascot looked at her and he his cheeks were hot red. "UMI I-I-I LOVE YOU!" he shouted. Umi gasped but couldn't say anything. Then as
fast as lighting Ascot bolted from the room and down the hall. Umi stood there staring. "Ascot..." she whispered. She bit her lip and looked down. "Oh Ascot..." she said.
She then ran to go find him.
Fuu sat in her room lost in thought. She stared at the engagement ring Ferio had given her. "I can't marry him..." she said sadly. "I love Ferio but if I say yes
I'll have to choose between my family and him." Tears slid down her cheeks. She buried her face in her hands and cried. She sat there pondering what to do. Just then there
was a knock on the door. Fuu slipped out of bed, opened it a crack, and peeked out the door. She saw Ferio. "Hi Fuu." He whispered. Fuu gave him a small smiled and opened
the door to let him in. Once inside Ferio turned to her and smiled.
"Have you decided?" he asked. Fuu looked down. "I thought hard." She replied. Ferio bit his lip. "And?" he asked. Fuu looked at him. She then took his hand and said,
"Ferio... I..." she then turned away. Ferio looked down in his hand and saw the ring he gave her. Ferio looked away from Fuu. "You've decided." He asked. "I'm sorry." Fuu
said not able to face him. Ferio nodded and then began to leave but he stopped right next to her. "I understand." He then ran out of the room. Fuu looked at him and saw tears
falling. He ran quickly away. Fuu fell to her knees and then cried. She then fell to the floor and crumpled up into a ball and cried uncontrollable. "Ferio... I love... you."
She cried.
Hikaru slipped out of her room and slowly crept down the hallway. In her hands she carried a box full of sweets. When she got to her destination she slowly opened the
door to the room and walked in. She looked at Eagle lying on the bed. "Eagle?" Hikaru said softly. "Hikaru?" Eagle replied. "Its late. Why are you up? Is something troubling
you?" Hikaru walked over to him. "I couldn't sleep so I decided to come see you... since well I thought..." Hikaru tried to explain. Eagle laughed telepathically. Hikaru
smiled and sat on the bed next to him.
"I brought you some sweets for when you wake up." She said. "I'll leave them on the side table so if I'm not here at least one of the things you want when you wake
is here." Eagle breathed. "Thank you." He replied. Hikaru set the sweets on the table. She then slid her hand onto Eagle's. "I'm glad you came." He whispered. "Why?" Hikaru
asked innocently. Eagle didn't respond. Hikaru stood up and then smiled. "Your going to wake up soon aren't you?" she asked. "Yes." He responded happily. Hikaru smiled and
then hugged him. "I have to go it's late." She said. "Pleasant dreams sweet Hikaru." He said. Hikaru blushed and walked out.
As she walked out into the hallway she saw Lantis leaning against the wall. "LANTIS!" she said loudly. Lantis looked at her. "I thought you were asleep." Hikaru said.
Lantis placed his arm around her and led her too her room. "I wasn't tired." He said. Hikaru nodded and held his hand. "Eagle is going to awake soon." Said Hikaru happily.
Lantis smiled. "He's strong like you." Lantis said. "I know he'll awake soon." Hikaru smiled and thanked Lantis for walking her to her room.
Ascot stopped in the courtyard and groaned. "I feel so stupid." He said miserably. "Why is that sugah?" said voice. Ascot turned around to see Caldina.
"What are you doing here?" he gasped. Caldina was sitting in a tree looking at him. Caldina jumped down and looked at him. She walked over to him and said, "I saw
you running and well I'd figure you'd be out here." She said giving him a smile. Ascot looked down. Caldina looked at him and raised a brow. "What's wrong Ascot?"
she asked. Ascot sighed and sat down on a rock. "I finally told Umi how I fell about her." He said. "And?" asked Caldina. "She stared at me and then I ran out."
He said miserably. "Did she say anything back?" asked Caldina. Ascot was silent.
Suddenly there was a huge explosion. Ascot and Caldina bolted up and saw a huge section of the castle break apart. The whole section was about to topple all over
them. Caldina screamed. Ascot waved his hand and a huge beast appeared. The monster covered both Caldina and Ascot from being crushed. When the last parts of the castle
fell away, Ascot made his monster disappear. "What happened?" asked Caldina. Suddenly there were screams coming from the castle.
Fuu screamed with terror as several people entered her room. All of them wearing were a different style of black clothes. "STAY AWAY!" she shouted. Fuu grabbed
a vase that was in her room and through it at them. One man through it aside and then pulled out a pellet and tossed it at Fuu. It hit the ground near her and smoke
filled the area around her. Fuu coughed and stumbled to get away. "Can't breath..." she mumbled. She watched as the men came closer. She screamed as loud as she could but
she was weak. She needed help. Ferio she thought. He won't come for me. Tears slid down her cheeks and with all her might she screamed, "FERIO!"
Ferio and Lafarga tried to fight there way through the crowds of men but they were to strong. Ferio used his sword to try and fight them off but they were
faster. The used there pellets to make smoke screens. Lafarga's eyes watered as he squinted to see. He then saw someone behind Ferio ready to stab him. "PRINCE!"
he shouted. Lafarga then pushed him out of the way. Ferio fell out of the cloud of smoke and heard a deep scream. He looked up and saw the smoke clear away. The
men were gone and Lafarga was lying on the ground bleeding. "LAFARGA!" shouted Ferio running to his side. 'Are you all right?" asked Lafarga in pain. "FERIO!"
Ferio looked up and gasped. "FUU!" he shouted.
He began to help Lafarga up when he stopped him. "No, go help her." He said. "But..." Ferio began. "I'll be fine. He glanced over and saw Caldina
and Presea heading their way. Ferio nodded and let him down and went to go help Fuu. "Lafarga!" Caldina said running to his side. "Are you all right?" asked
Presea. Lafarga cringed in pain. "My arm." He said. "What about Ferio?" asked Caldina. "He went to go help Fuu." Said Lafarga in pain. Caldina held onto him and
wrapped her shawl around his arm. She hugged him closely as he passed out.
Umi screamed as several men surrounded her. "GET AWAY FROM ME!" she shouted. One of the men grabbed her arms. Umi struggled and tried to get away. One
then took out a pellet and tossed it on Umi and ropes appeared and tied her down. Umi fell down and was then tossed over one of the guys' shoulders. Umi
shrieked in terror. Just then a huge monster appeared. The men gasped and jumped away. One tossed a pellet at the monster and then it fell to the ground and
disappeared. Ascot then came up and looked at his monster. "ASCOT!" Umi shouted. Ascot gasped and used his lighting attack but the guys blocked it. Ascot gasped
but the guys in black tossed down several pellets destroying a wall. Then the jumped out with Umi. "ASCOT!" Umi screamed. Ascot gasped and shouted, "UMI!"
"Clef!" Hikaru shouted getting behind him. "Where did they come from?" Clef held out his staff and sent out lighting bolts at them. "I don't know."
He responded. Just then someone jumped in the air and sent a laser blast at them. Hikaru ducked down. But Clef used his shield. The laser fizzled and went
out. Clef then began to chant but one of the guys pulled out another gun. He then fired it at Clef and this time it broke his shield and hit him. "CLEF!"
Hikaru screamed. Clef's eyes glossy and his body rigid. Clef was paralyzed. Just then one of the guys came and was about to grab Hikaru when the doors opened.
The men turned and saw Lantis. His sword was out and sent a blast at them. The jumped away and Hikaru looked at him and smiled. "LANTIS!" she called.
"Clef is hurt!" Lantis took a step toward them but someone grabbed him by the neck and began to choke him. "LANTIS!" shouted Hikaru. She began to get up
but someone grabbed her by the arm and pulled her toward him. Hikaru yelped and tried to break away but she was unable too. He then dragged Hikaru to the
window and blasted it to pieces. He then walked over to it and tossed Hikaru out. She screamed as she fell and Lantis gasped. He ran to the window as the men
jumped out too. When he looked out they were gone.
Lantis slammed his fist against the wall and cursed loudly. "DAMN!" he shouted. He then turned to see Clef. He ran over to him and helped him up.
"Guru?" he asked. Clef's eyes were open but no one responded. "What have they done to you?" he gasped. Just then Ascot, Ferio, and the others came into the room.
"Fuu and Umi were kidnapped." Said Ascot. Lantis groaned. "So was Hikaru." He said sadly. The others gasped but Hikaru's scream still echoed.
In the darkened untouched room. The sounds of the screaming girls filled the room. Eagle eyes flashed open. He jumped up and gasped.
"Hikaru!" he shouted.
Hikaru, Umi, and Fuu awoke in a room in the same bed. There pajamas were gone and in place were different clothes. Hikaru's was a sleeveless
white dress with a gold breastplate. A pink shawl wrapped around her arms. She had chokers and earrings on as well. Umi's dress was also white but
with sleeves that fell of her shoulders. Her breastplate was also gold. Her headband was gold with a blue jewel in the center. She also had a gold choker
and earring on. A blue shawl wrapped around her arms as well. Fuu wore a white dress, that was sleeveless and turtleneck like, and a green shawl was
wrapped around her arms. Around her waist was a gold chain and her headband was gold and ribbons on each side. Her breastplate was gold as well as
her earring.
"Where are we?" asked Umi. "These clothes are strange." Said Fuu fixing her glasses. Hikaru slipped out of the bed and ran to the door but
it was locked. "We're trapped." Hikaru said. Just then the door opened and a women with blond hair, dressed in tight black leather, and a visor over
eyes walked in. "Alright you girls get up know!" she ordered. "HEY WHERE ARE WE!" Umi shouted. "TELL US!" The women pulled out her gun and shot Umi.
Umi fell in pain and gasped. "Miss Umi!" Fuu Cried. The woman then took Hikaru and shoved her out of the room. "Get going you little brat!" she ordered.
Fuu helped Umi up and the limped out the door. The walked strait until they came to a door. The door opened and The three girls were pushed in.
They looked up in front of them and saw three men. One of them was sitting and the two others standing. Umi growled and shouted, "WHO ARE
YOU!" Umi was then shoved from behind and fell to the floor. "Silence!" shouted the women. Umi groaned. The women then walked up to the men and
smiled. "The Magic Knight's my lords." She said bowing to him. "Well done Kurai." He said with a smile. Kurai smiled and then kissed the man sittings
hand.
"My lord, I only wish to please you." Kurai said. Hikaru stood up while Fuu held onto Umi. "I want to know who you are and why did you
kidnap us!" Hikaru said glaring at them. Kurai spun around and was about to strike Hikaru when someone grabbed her hand. The man with brown/red
hair stopped him. "Kurai go find something constructive to do." He said. "We wish to talk to the knight's alone." Kurai gave a low growl but left.
When she was gone the man with black hair that was sitting stood up. "Welcome magic knights to your new home." He said with a twisted smile.
Hikaru gasped and looked back at Umi and Fuu whose mouths were hanging. "I'm Kenzi." He said. "And these are my brothers, Eri and Siaji."
Eri was the red/brown haired man and Siaji was the dirty blond.
Eri took Fuu by the wrist and pulled her away from Umi. "LET HER GO!" Hikaru shouted. Eri ignored her and placed a gold bracelet with a green jewel
in the center on her. Fuu gasped and slapped him hard across the face and tried to run away but she stopped short unable to move. "FUU!" Umi screamed.
Fuu was then dragged away by Eri to a door on the left. Then before she new Umi had a bracelet with a blue gem in the center on her. Saiji then dragged
her away to a door on the right. "LET THEM GO!" Hikaru shouted. She ran to Kenzi in attempt to hit him but he grabbed her by the wrists. Hikaru gasped and
tried to break free but he was too strong. He then forced her into a bracelet with a red gem on it. "Why are you doing this?" Asked Hikaru. "Because my
brothers and I always get what we want." He said. "And what we want is Cephiro and the Magic Knights."
Kenzi then pulled Hikaru dragged Hikaru through a room and down a hall. He then opened a door and pushed her inside. Hikaru fell to the ground and
groaned. "This is where you'll be staying, Hikaru." He said. "I'll come see you later." He then shut the door and locked it. Hikaru gasped and got up. She
banged on the door and began shouting, "LET ME OUT!" She then began to cry as her banging came softer and softer. "Someone help me..." she cried.
Back at Castle Cephiro Lantis, Ferio, and Ascot managed to get Clef and Lafarga into separate beds. Lafarga's arm and shoulder were bandaged up.
Clef on the other hand was still paralyzed or unconscious. Presea watched over Clef placing a moistened cloth on his head hoping it would help. Caldina was
clutching her bloodstained shawls and holding Lafarga. "Are the girls really gone?" asked Presea. "No trace of them anywhere." Said Ferio. "And without
Clef there is no way to tell where they are." Presea looked down and began to weep.
"I believe there still here." Said a voice from the door. Everyone turned to see Eagle walking in. He was in his black clothes and he had a stern
look. "Eagle... but how?" asked Lantis. "I found my strength and was able to awaken." He said. "No time for a chit chat we must find Hikaru and her friends."
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Authors Note: That's it for chapter one. I'll post chapter two when I'm done. I hope you all like it so far.
Well that's all for know. Ja ne!