Light of the Azure
Prologue
She walked with elegance, her bare feet gently embracing the moist grass. Her toes curved with every step. The breeze was cool and refreshing. The rain had finished. The once raging thunder storm gave way to a rainbow, curved over the mountain pass. The clouds began to disperse as the sun's rays gleamed through. The woman slowly stepped into their domain and away from the rustling trees. The white dragons welcomed her; they raised their heads in acknowledgment but they didn't move. They stayed nestled around a new hatchling. It was the birth of a new dragon.
Chapter 1
"Master! I'm coming with you! I want to see her too!" She yelled out chasing after him through the elongated corridor. Her steps echoed loudly as she chased him. It was a long hallway with an elevated ceiling. Only the most prestigious of the Spellcasters could enter and walk through its walls with ease. This particular passage, however, consisted of the colors of a deep sanguine red and the darkest shade of black. It was dimly lit by magic orbs that emitted light of red. The orbs would only change in color and intensity in times of emergency. There were antique decorations and spells written on the walls. These spells helped communicate with other Spellcasters in their Citadel. Endymion had been elected as the Governor of the Citadel for his mastery of the dark arts. However, the Spellcasters' Citadel was in no shortage of superb magic users. The elders of the Citadel were an integral role in the function of their society. For generations, they've been giving advice, especially of times of great peril befalling the human world. They also made certain that no lone Spellcaster would surpass his or her boundary and threaten the peace of their world and the human world. After all, it was the duty of the Spellcasters to maintain peace between the two realms.
"Mana, you must practice your magic. You can't miss your training," his voice was deep but stern. "A good Magician never misses her training," he smiled as he wiggled his right index finger. She looked annoyed.
"Come on, Master, one day couldn't hurt! And you're going to visit her, right? I want to see her, too! It'll only be a short while and I won't be a bother!" She pestered on. She looked at him with wide pleading eyes. He sighed as he reluctantly gave in.
"Good grief. Alright, fine. You can come."
"Yay!" she jumped up in joy. He smiled with his hand brushing his bangs back.
"At least, that part of you hasn't changed." She grinned at him.
The Maiden hummed to herself as she walked to the center of the open shrine. She kneeled slowly. The sun shone in as the inner pool sparkled. The water was pure and clear -none the likes of the human world. The small building was well made but had aged significantly as the greenery wrapped itself around the white pillars and infiltrated the cracks within the walls. The windows were stained white and blue. They were placed parallel to each other on opposite walls. The ceiling was an open sky light. At the front displayed a stained glass portrait of a white dragon. The Maiden clenched her palms together and focused. She prayed. She prayed for the well being of the new dragon and to ease the turmoil in the hearts of the humans. She knew their realm relied on the hearts of the duelists presiding in the human world. But strange things had been happening. She could feel it. Dark beings, treacherous and revenge-driven shadow creatures were being revived, using human souls once again. She had thought that, once the dark dragon god would be stopped; there wouldn't be any more humans foolish enough to bring danger to their worlds again. But this time, it wasn't Leviathan that was threatening their existence… these were the sealed immortal earthbound gods! These terrifying creatures had to be stopped… or else the light would disappear. A world without light… the Maiden knew she had to keep the light alive. Surely, like before the humans would overcome this. Even if they had forgotten the existence of her realm… there would always be the special humans. The humans of strong souls -the chosen duelists.
She sighed. She opened her eyes; her cerulean irises glistened as she stared at the stained glass portrait. She let out a small smile. "I wonder how the little one is doing," she spoke with a soft whisper. She rose and headed out to leave the small shrine. As she reached the front of the steps, she noticed the two legendary Magicians waiting at the base of the steps. They greeted her with a smile. The Girl jumped up with joy and she waved her hand. However, when she jumped, she lost balance and nearly tripped onto the steps. The Magician caught her in his arm right before her face could touch the marble steps. The Magician sighed and gave her a lecture. The Maiden couldn't help but let out a small chuckle. The Maiden then proceeded to walk down the marble steps. At the third to last step, the Magician let out his hand, asking for hers. She accepted, and placed her hand softly on top of his palm. He grasped her palm delicately as she gently walked down the remaining steps.
"Always the gentleman, huh Master?" the Girl smirked to herself, nudging her elbow to his. A slight hint of red appeared on the Maiden's cheek.
"Well, of course. More than anyone, she has earned my respect, without a doubt. Whether any one is aware or not, she's been fighting for peace between the worlds for a very long time." He stepped back as he released her hand. He made a slight bow to her. Surprise washed over the Maiden's face.
"Oh no! Please don't. I haven't done anything, High Prie—I mean Dark Magician," the Maiden covered her mouth with her hand in nervousness.
"Please, it's fine. You can call me, Mahad, if you'd like. I believe it's only us three that still remember the lives we once lived as humans. I'm no longer the High Priest of the Pharaoh… more than 5,000 years have passed since," he reassured her. The Maiden relaxed her arms.
"Five… thousand years… it only feels like yesterday when I met Lord Seto…" the Maiden trailed off her sentence. She looked down with sadness. There were only a few moments they had been together… they weren't even able to have one decent conversation before she… died.
"Hey, it's okay! Seto never once forgot about you. I was with him when he ruled as the next Pharaoh… there wasn't a moment he wasn't thinking about you. You changed him… he was always strict and merciless… but… but he gained a new light because of you… he had a just rule." The Girl patted the Maiden's shoulder. Tears were forming in the Maiden's eyes. "He never forgot about you… he kept you alive in his heart." The Maiden couldn't hold back her tears. The Girl hugged her. "I'm sure if we had the chance to meet… we would have been best friends. With the Princ—I mean Pharaoh, too!" She squeezed once more before letting go. The Maiden wiped her tears. The Girl smiled, "It's not too late… We can still become friends y'know!"
"But Dark Magician Girl, I-" the Girl put her finger to the Maiden's mouth to stop her from talking further.
"No, it's Mana." She smiled as the Maiden looked with surprise. "And I refuse to call you with such a distant title as Blue-Eyed Maiden… I will call you Kisara!" The Maiden's eyes widened. Nobody had called her that name in a very long time… in five thousand years.
"Is it really, okay?" Kisara asked. Mahad nodded in agreement.
"It's only going to be between us anyways!" Mana exclaimed in excitement. She wrapped her arm around Kisara's shoulder. "We're going to be the best of girlfriends!" Kisara let out a small laugh. "We can talk about all sorts of things! Like how Seto did this and that… and how he never let your dragon out of his sight! At times I thought he was crazy for being so obsessive!" Mana giggled. Kisara laughed alongside her. "And there's more, he-"
"A-hem." They stopped to turn to Mahad. "We didn't only come for a friendly visit, Mana. We've got urgent news to relay." Although his voice was calm, he had a commanding presence. Mahad's eyes were of different color than Kisara's, his eyes resembled a clear sky blue. His hair was silky lavender that flowed at the breeze's command.
"Ah! That's right! News of the human world!" Mana spoke. Her cheerful face turned serious. Her eyes shimmered like a reflection of an emerald stone. Mana was a beautiful woman, her hair was the color of the sun, and her cheeks were colored bright pink. Her outfit emphasized her curves… but the most attractive aspect of hers was her extroverted personality. It was no wonder she was chosen as the mediator between the human world and their realm- the Dominion of the Beasts. She had the trust of both the humans and the spirits.
"Is it about the sealed immortals? I've felt their dark presence becoming stronger," Kisara spoke with a shudder. Mahad nodded.
"As expected of your abilities. Yes, that's true. They are being awakened as we speak. Our worlds are in danger once more," Mahad added.
"I know danger is approaching… but there's so little I can do…" Kisara added. "I can only be the light… my light isn't strong enough to seal them."
"Don't worry, you won't be fighting alone! Actually, we're in need of your help… we need your powers!" Mana spoke with a determined look in her eyes.
"I- I told you, my light may not be enough, I-"
"No, your other ability. The five dragons have found their chosen. The crimson dragon… is leading this fight." Mahad interrupted her. "The dragons must lead this fight and they only trust you." Kisara looked at him with surprise.
"What about the Lord of Dragons? He is a much stronger Spellcaster and warrior than I." Mahad grabbed her shoulders abruptly. Kisara flinched.
"Please do not underestimate yourself Lady Kisara!" Mahad expressed a worried look. "You've been fighting all this time. Defending the human world and ours. You are not weak. None can possess a light such as yours." He let go and turned away.
"That's right. This is only something you can do. You can communicate with the dragons and let us know about the battles!" Mana added. Kisara glanced at her and returned to Mahad. There was silence. Kisara watched the two Magicians' faces. They were glum and refused to raise their heads. She didn't think anyone could care as much. Slowly, she took a deep breath and spoke.
"Why has your face been ridden with guilt, Dark Ma—Mahad? Mana?" she asked. Mahad gritted his teeth and clenched his fist.
"Because there has been a great injustice," he breathed. "No one has known what you've done for us… and the humans. You have yet to be called upon to the human realm." His eyes looked at her with sorrowful guilt. Kisara couldn't help but let out a small grin.
"It's fine. I'm fine. I'm content. I haven't gotten the chance to think about that, Mahad." Kisara turned to Mana. "Stop with that kind of look. It's peaceful here. I love it. I have the incredible chance to be with them. And I'm content with wonderful visitors—no, friends such as you. I'm not alone. Not anymore. Don't worry… for me." She took each of their hands in to her palms and brought them close to her chest. She squeezed their palms. "I needn't have to worry amongst the presence of such wondrous friends, right?" She smiled at them. They returned her smile hesitantly. "Anyways, I must show you! You must come with me! A new dragon has been born!" Before they could refuse, she grabbed their arms and brought them to the nest of the white dragons.
The nest was located at the base of the mountain. It was shrouded by thick mist and fog. The tall trees camouflaged and warded off any intruders. At the base of the mountain was a cave opening so enormous, the Magicians had to enter with much trepidation. As they reached the inner cave, passing through numerous tunnels that would misguide unsuspecting intruders, laid a resting gigantic three headed white dragon. As they moved closer, the dragon perked awake. Its three heads rose to focus on the presence of intruders. It stared down intently at the Magicians. It gave out a slight roar with each of its heads. The echo of its roar brought forth three other dragons… who were none other than the legendary Blue Eyes White Dragons. They flew upon the three with jaws clenched. Their eyes concentrated on the two intruding Spellcasters.
Fear washed upon Mahad and Mana's faces. Memory of past battles flashed before their eyes. How many times were they forced to battle these humongous legendary dragons? Fear quickly turned to adrenaline. It brought them to a state of battle. They called upon their staffs, unblinking and focused. They knew the dragons were not to be underestimated… they were terrifying creatures to begin with. Their slender reflecting bodies were in no comparison to the frightening power they possessed. One chance of their White Lightning and the Magicians knew they were as good as gone. The dragons' strength was ranked close to the gods. Only a few have lived to tell their tale.
"STOP! All of you. It's OK!" Kisara intervened as she attempted to calm both sides. Kisara kneeled as she began to plead to the dragons, "Dearest dragons of light, I beseech you! Do not harm them, for they too are my friends. They will not bring harm. I promise!" Kisara stared intently at the dragons, unblinking. The Magicians held their breath. It was an uneasy silence. Slowly the three headed dragon walked forward, towards them. The Magicians stood their ground, astounded by the unflinching Kisara. The dragon lowered its heads, surrounding Kisara.
Mahad could feel his sweat dropping and his hand shaking as its heads moved closer. He could feel the coldness in their eyes. Its sharp teeth easily seen as it clenched its jaws. Mahad knew he had to do something! Kisara is in danger! He thought. As he attempted to approach and prepare a binding spell, he abruptly stopped in his tracks. The dragons! They are… hugging her? The Magicians couldn't believe their eyes! The dragons were being affectionate! They gently touched her and caressed her curves as she laughed with joy. It was sight they couldn't believe unless they were there to see it!
"Ohhh! Stop it now…. You're tickling me!" Kisara laughed. Quickly, she grabbed the center head of the dragon with her whole body. She laid her head atop of the dragon's head. "How so very lovely and so very naughty of all of you," she whispered sweetly. "Giving my friends such a fright. Good to know you all love me as I love all of you," she smiled. The Magicians were taken aback. This scene reaffirmed their position on Kisara's strength. Hesitantly, Mahad began to speak.
"Lady Kisara, if I may be pardoned, but what is it that you wanted to show us?" He asked. Kisara stood straight once more.
"Oh right! The baby dragon!" Kisara replied excitedly. She once more placed herself beside the dragon's head. "My beloved white dragon, won't you let the small one come out and play?" she whispered to the dragon. The three headed dragon raised its head once more. The Magicians were so focused on the three headed dragon that they had forgotten the other three single-headed dragons. To much more surprise, they were already relaxed! What a sight it was!
The three headed dragon made a small sound to their right direction. They looked in that direction. The Magicians soon heard stomps smaller than the three headed dragon but loud enough to know it wasn't like them. Amidst from the darkness and thick fog appeared a small silver dragon! Kisara ran towards it. Although it was about a little more than half her size, the dragon was not afraid of her, nor she.
"Oh, little one, how I missed you!" She hugged the small dragon, wrapping her arms around the base of its neck. "Look at how much you've grown!" She kissed the dragon by the horn at the intersection of its jaws. She then rubbed its head lovingly. The small dragon returned her affections. "Have you learned to fly already?" The dragon nodded 'no' as it attempted to show her. She hugged the small dragon once more, "It's alright little one, I know you'll be able to do it. You'll be a powerful dragon." Kisara released slowly and stood up. "Come. Let me show you my friends." She moved away for both the small dragon and the Magicians could see each other. The Magicians stepped forward cautiously. They stopped a five stepped distance away from the small dragon. "Mahad, Mana, he won't hurt you. Come, let out your hand and touch him."
Mana was the first to engage the small dragon. She kneeled before the dragon and slowly moved her hand towards its head. The dragon allowed her to touch him. It let out a small joyful growl as Mana rubbed its head. She smiled.
"Awww, he's so cute! Mahad, come and try!" Mahad cautiously moved forward, copying exactly what Mana had done. Again, the dragon accepted him. Mahad let out a sigh of relief.
"Thank goodness." Mahad looked up to Kisara, "This is a wonderful thing you've shown us."
"Yes, I agree!" Mana added. Kisara laughed quietly, pleased that her friends could become acquainted. As Mahad continued to rub the head of the small dragon, he felt something. A premonition. This dragon wasn't like the others… he wasn't going to be like the others. Although unclear, Mahad had a feeling that the day Kisara could appear in the human world was coming closer. Not as a human, or as "Kisara" but as the "Blue-Eyed Maiden". He wasn't sure when, or how, but this dragon was the key. Mahad began to feel sick, queasy at the rushing mix of thoughts and feelings.
"Mahad, are you alright?!" Kisara asked worryingly. Mana supported his shoulders.
"I'm fine… I think it's time Mana and I head back. Could you lead the way back to the shrine, Kisara?"
"Okay, let's go." Kisara moved to support one of his shoulders as Mana grabbed another. Before they left, Kisara glanced back and nodded to the dragons. They returned her nod.
As they returned to the shrine, Kisara asked, "What happened all of a sudden? Does that happen often?"
"No, not really… I'll just have to process it… all I know is that the birth of that dragon was a good thing," Mahad reassured her with a smile.
"Really?! Is that so," Kisara replied with a hint of joy.
"Anyways, Mana and I should return to the Citadel. There is much work to be done." Mahad removed his arms around their shoulders.
"Are you really okay now, Mahad?" Kisara asked.
"Yes, I apologize if I have worried you. Mana let's return now." Mahad began walking to the path towards the Citadel.
"Kisara, you can come live with us at the Citadel, it must get lonely time to time," Mana spoke.
"No, I'm fine. I can't leave the dragons. Besides I don't have any magic or spells to help you out with." Kisara replied.
"I see… then I'll come see you again! Will that be alright?"
"Yes, I would enjoy your company," Kisara smiled.
"Alright, till next time!" Mana ran towards Mahad, waving good bye. Suddenly remembering, Kisara called out once more.
"Wait, what was it that you wanted me to help with? Which dragons must I speak to?" Kisara shouted. Mahad turned and replied.
"For now, please find out the cause of turmoil between Stardust Dragon and the Black Rose Dragon. They have been fighting each other… Black Rose has been a problem. Please if you can… resolve that conflict." It took Kisara awhile for Mahad's words to sink in. This was the first that she was requested… determined, Kisara replied.
"Okay, I'll definitely look into it."
"Good. Thank you." Mahad slightly nodded before bowing good bye.
Soon the two Magicians were out of the Maiden's sight. As they walked back towards the Citadel, using magic to guide their way, they discussed.
"It's amazing how Kisara is able to do all that with those dragons! I've never seen them so… so harmless!" Mana spoke.
"Yes… I believe her power is most terrifying of all. We've faced those dragons numerous times in the human world… but never seen them like that…To control such awesome creatures would be unthinkable," Mahad replied.
"I think that's why they accept her… because her goal isn't to control them… she loves them."
"Love… an emotion most incomprehensible…" Mahad trailed off. A brief moment of silence was between them. Slowly, again, Mana spoke once more.
"Hey Master… have you told her about that warrior? You know… with all the white dragon motifs and even his costume…"
"… No"
"Why not? Isn't he… Seto?" Mana asked reluctantly. "She still remembers him, you know." Mahad paused. He collected his thoughts and replied.
"I knew him, when he was a Priest. The way I remember him, he was arrogant and hungry for more power. He didn't believe in allies and would strike even his friends to make himself stronger. Kisara is kind. I don't know how he'll act towards her… what if he hurts her? Or uses her for the dragons?" Mahad looked intently at Mana's eyes. "Would you be able to know for certain that he'd love her for her? Can you say for certain that his love for the dragon was for her and not the dragon itself?" Mana thought quietly. She nodded no. "You see? I can't bear the thought of a sorrowful Maiden… and who knows how the dragons might retaliate."
"You're right, Master. We don't know how he'll treat her… I don't want to see her cry." They shared a moment of silence. "At least we know for sure the two will never meet."
"Mana… don't underestimate the power of fate. Anything could still happen."
A tall, broad shouldered man is seen wearing a dark cloak covering his entire body. He ominously enters the Citadel. His face his hidden but strands of his auburn hair flows in the direction of the wind. He looks up to one of the tall towers… to which only the dark Spellcasters preside. The Man speaks in a whisper.
"The tyranny of the Spellcasters will soon come to an end."
