Boy am I glad to finally have this chapter finished! I do apologise for it taking a number of months but I wrote myself into a flipping corner again.

Lots of references in this chapter and I DO NOT own any of the songs named


Chapter Four

Come morning, news of the sailor who survived reached Dranzer's ears. According to the healers he'd faded during the night, his injuries too severe to cure. The town folk woke to the mournful cry of Suzaku. Kai arrived in the throne room to find Dranzer sitting limply on her throne. He hurried to Dranzer's side as she lurched forward. Driger came into the room just as Dranzer's head landed on Kai's shoulder. "Dranzer?! Goodness what happened?!" Kai met Driger's eyes, wondering if the man was blaming him for Dranzer's ill turn. "My Lady is weak from mourning. Losing men takes the energy out of her a day later. She'll be fine with some rest I assure you." Driger seemed to calm as Kai swept Dranzer into his arms, carrying the grieving queen to her bed. The eastern king followed, wanting to make sure Kai didn't take advantage of Dranzer in her current state. By the time he got there, Dranzer was lying in bed with Kai sitting devotedly in a chair next to it, sword in hand ready to impale anybody who dared disturb his queen. Dranzer's advisors came running and the white haired male made an attempt to remove Kai from the room only to have Kai's sword dangerously close to his gullet. "Keep your hands off of me, Wolborg." "Know your place, boy!" "I know my place very well." Kai snarled, facing the man with equal venom. "It is my duty to protect the Queen no matter the hour. And if I catch that nephew of yours courting my sister again I'll send him to an early grave. A very painful one." Before the fight could escalate, Wyborg separated the pair.

Some time after midday, Dranzer was indeed feeling better. She had been comforted to see Kai at her side. Returning to the throne room, they found Wolborg, Seaborg, Falborg and Wyborg all talking quietly about possibly postponing the ball. Their hushed chatter stopped when they heard metal connecting with stone. Wyborg was the first to act, hurrying to kneel in front of Dranzer. "My lady, you're awake!" "Rise, Wyborg. You need not postpone. I feel able enough to attend. Might I ask Draciel's whereabouts?" Wyborg stood straight as an arrow as she answered. "I last saw him in the courtyard. He seems troubled at best. I advise keeping away, my lady. A dangerous air hangs around him of late." "Thank you, Wyborg. Kai, you may go. Freyan and Yonah must be worried about your absence." Kai nodded briskly and turned on his heel but not before giving Wolborg an evil glare. Dranzer remembered a brief argument between the two, knowing full well it involved Tala's courting of Yonah. As she sat on her throne, Dranzer wondered if the western king was aware of the brewing danger. She had received no word from him in a long time. Throughout the day, servants bustled busily around the castle to prepare a large, grand hall slightly below the throne room. Kai felt uneasy leaving Dranzer on her own, his muscles twitching in anticipation. Little that he or anybody else knew, something was stirring in the nearby woodland, waiting for the opportune moment to strike the city. The sky was vaguely dark as the ball hour approached.

No more than an hour before the ball, Kai was waiting for Yonah to be ready. He and Freyan were in fine armour with capes that belonged to their father. They also had visors in the shape of Suzaku's face, Kai's gold and Freyan's bronze. Elowen appeared with Yonah some twenty minutes later. Kai and Freyan could hardly breathe when they saw how radiant Yonah shone. She was in an ankle length halter neck lavender dress with pale blue gloves and shimmering silken slippers. A pastel blue velvet cardigan went gracefully with the dress. Yonah's hair was tied most fancily in a high braid with curled strands framing her coloured cheeks. It was rare for Yonah to have anything on her face but she made exceptions for special occasions like the ball. The blue of Yonah's eyes was brought out by leaf green eye shadow, her lips a dark chestnut. Upon her cheeks was a gold blush. Yonah took Freyan's arm and they went on to the hall ahead of Kai. He however went to the throne room at the very peak of the castle. There Kai found Dranzer in her most dazzling dress. It wasn't much different from her usual one, the sleeves still giving her the appearance of Phoenix wings but it was covered in gold and silver sequins and some feathers of dark crimson and pink. Kai recognized them as feathers from Suzaku's parents, Suzako and Suzaki. Red gloves and shoes accompanied the dress along with a cream shawl that blended in with Dranzer's hair. First Kai bowed, and then offered the Queen his hand. She took it with reddened cheeks, thrilled to be by Kai's side. Dranzer's advisors were apparently already at the hall waiting. Upon arriving Kai noticed Max glued to Yonah's side in green and orange satin clothes, a blue cape around his neck.

Nearby he saw Rei and Driger in matching white attire. Draciel looked glum as ever in purples and blues. Next to Rei Kai spied a lovely girl with pink hair and gold eyes. At her other side was a black haired gold eyed fellow in dark silver lightweight armour. If Kai didn't know any better he'd say the two were related. Two more of Driger's troops were in the hall near him. A short green haired warrior and a bear of a man. They too were in armour. Kai made a mental note to keep his eyes on Tala throughout the evening in case the wolf rider tried to steal Yonah away. With Max close by however, Kai doubted the red head would try anything drastic. Prying the blonde from Yonah would be near impossible. With the escort over, Dranzer moved to embrace Driger and Rei. Seeing his Queen holding other men set Kai's blood boiling. Only recently had he realized that his loyalty to Dranzer was more than just an oath. He loved her and had done since they were young. Back then Kai had only thought them close friends, then once old enough, Queen and soldier. Yet he didn't think himself worthy enough of Dranzer's hand. Kai had no time to begin brooding as Yonah grabbed his hand for a dance. It had become almost a rule that Kai and Yonah have the first dance at parties to a song Freyan wasn't overly fond of. Despite Yonah's lack of physical strength she kept up with her brother step for step, floating with a form of grace Max had never seen before. Looking over his shoulder, Freyan saw Dranzer talking with Driger, likely explaining how things happened.

Max was curious as to why no other couples were on the dance floor, hoping Freyan would cast some light on the mystery. Rei also seemed to have a desire for answers; sitting on Freyan's other side. "You guys won't let me off will you? Kai and Yonah are the only ones out there because this was our parents' song. It was played on their wedding day every year. If I recall it's called Black Beauty, for a horse far nobler than any other beast. There's a story based on his journey from owner to owner until he found his forever home at an old age." "But why not you, Freyan?" "It's because I look nothing like my father, Rei. If I took Yonah's hand to this song it would be deemed an insult to my father's memory. Hence why tis my brother dancing with Yonah. She is mother's twin from head to toe." Max and Rei felt bad for Freyan, knowing he could never dance to the song of his parents. Soon it was over and Freyan stood from the table. Kai picked a random woman from the crowd. At least, Freyan only hoped it was a random female. To the surprise of everyone, Kai offered his hand to the pinkette who stood near Rei. "May I have this dance, fair lady?" The girl blushed but accepted Kai's offer and he led her to the floor. Dranzer was dragging Driger to dance with her while he was very red in the face. Max and Rei sat unwanted for a minute or so as a country tune began to play, hearing one of Dranzer's soldiers calling the song Homeward Bound. The dancers all switched partners and Yonah pulled Rei from his chair having left Freyan to dance with Kai's former partner. Kai moved on to some girl in the order of knights. Dranzer took the risk of lugging Draciel to the middle of the room. He looked mildly happy from where Max sat.

Another minute later Yonah grew bored of Rei though he was a fine dancer despite the melody being unfamiliar to him. She got Max onto his feet, taking his hand and shoulder. "B-But I don't know the steps." "Then just follow my lead, Max. You'll do fine." At first Max stumbled a little but found his feet upon gazing into Yonah's eyes. It was apparent Kai wound up with Dranzer, granting him some measure of delight. Max had never known such a lively tune as he spun Yonah around and pulled her close. When the song ended, Max wanted to kiss Yonah but with Kai only a few strides away it wasn't a good idea. The floor flooded with couples as Kai went off to lean on a wall, knowing full well what song was coming next. Freyan, Max, Yonah and Rei all returned to their seats, watching as Dranzer made her way over to Kai as he sipped at some wine. Freyan could only groan, aware of how badly the next dance always went. "What's the matter Freyan? Kai's the finest dancer I've seen in years. What's there to worry about?" "You don't know him like I do, Rei. This next song always gets his feet tangled. By now you'd think he'd know all the steps but no, he continues to make a fool of himself. I can't watch this. Not again." Freyan hid his face away so not to witness the idiocy of his big brother. Max and Rei saw what Freyan meant. Kai stumbled before colliding with Dranzer during one manoeuvre. Next they both bumped into another couple, the man barking at Kai to watch where he was going only to have Dranzer bite back.

Looking into Dranzer's green eyes, Kai knew what came next. He and Dranzer stepped to the side of each other about three times before sliding by each others' back and doing it again. After around four more slides Kai took Dranzer's hand and spun her away from him like a yo-yo three times. Their hands met and Dranzer's heart raced as she gazed down into Kai's crimson orbs. After a brief moment of rest, Kai, Freyan and Yonah stood in a row, Yonah in the middle of her brothers. Dranzer explained that the next song was called Eternal Harvest, and that in times long since passed, people would perform this song and dance to the gods for a bountiful harvest. Very few Fiorrians knew the dance, the Hiwatari siblings three of them. The melody was soft on the ears as the siblings danced to the jig. Kai and Freyan kept Yonah in the middle, exchanging places five times. Dranzer could hold herself back no more when the end neared, moving to join the trio. Those not native to Fiorre watched in awe as the quartet tapped circles around each other. Freyan and Yonah returned to their seats all puffed out but Kai had energy to burn, locating a lady wearing a samba dress. "Oh, great. Now he's going to show off. I'm glad Johnny's not here to see this." "Isn't he that Amestryan fellow?" Freyan nodded to Max, noticing Kai tapping a beat to the clacking instrument while his partner was in sync with the guitar. "Vamo' Alla Flamenco originated in Amestrys but since Salamulian's family took the throne it's all gone bagpipes and violins. I still don't know what Johnny's problem is with Kai. Maybe it's popularity." The boys all watched as the dance went on. Near the end Kai seemed to tire as his movements were slow.

After a brief sit down, Kai moved to a piano in the far corner as the orchestra began to play. Freyan looked on in hatred, knowing it should've been him at the piano. Yonah rarely saw Freyan with such concentrated rage on his face. The brass instruments ceased their hooting, a clear signal for Kai to begin striking the piano keys softly with violins in the background. Freyan could take it no more, moving to stand out on the balcony. Yonah wanted to chase after him but Dranzer advised against it. Soon the violins took over completely and Kai noticed his brother missing. Heaving a sigh he made for the balcony. "Freyan." "Leave me alone Kai." "I know why you're angry with me. I'm not doing it to hurt you, brother. When mother died you stopped playing the piano so suddenly I was wounded. You were always better at it than I was. When you gave up, I begged Falborg to teach me since it was his mother who taught ours how to play. I'd hoped that you would see it as a challenge and start taking lessons again. But instead you grew bitter towards me." Freyan tried to ignore Kai, refusing to face him but he was turned around and pulled into a fierce hug. "You know I'd never do anything to hurt you Freyan. It's time to let the past go. Our parents are gone. Nothing can change that. All we can do is try to make them proud of us." Freyan was crying now, his tears leaking through the bronze visor. Feeling the tremble of his brother, Kai held him closer. Dranzer closed the balcony doors so the brothers could weep in peace.

As the song inside started to take a mildly dangerous tone, Kai spotted something moving in the trees a fair way to the north. Removing his visor, Kai got a better view of what he'd seen. "Freyan, we've gotta go." "Not now Kai." Kai's ears tuned in on something whistling through the air and was only just able to move aside in time to dodge an arrow. "Now Freyan!" Wondering what could be causing his brother to panic; Freyan looked into the distance, eyes growing wide at the sight of goblins and orcs coming out of the woods. As the brothers ran they removed their cloaks and visors which were caught by a very unamused Falborg, yelling to them to be careful with Ser Auron's things. Dranzer took a curious glance outside herself, horrified to see the army of creatures. "To arms men! We're under attack!" The Firosian army vacated the hall as fast as they could to prepare for battle. Max stood beside Yonah, mace in hand. Those left in the hall had a shock when Rei and Driger turned into humanoid White Tigers with super sharp claws. "Rei, you stay here and protect Yonah. Kiki, you and Mao stay too. Rai, Gao, you're with me." Nobody seemed to notice Dranzer hurrying out of the room as Driger and a humanoid black lion pounced over the balcony rail. The giant of a man just stood scratching his head. Placing the discarded garments onto a table, Falborg transformed into a large Silver falcon. This brought Draciel mildly back to life. "I suppose there's no point sitting around here when action's about. Falborg, take me out there with you." "Well one of you best be prepared to be carried down in my talons then." Gao took the hint and in seconds he was no longer human.

In his place stood a mighty blue bear with the sharpest fangs Yonah had ever seen. With the bear in his claws and Draciel on his back, Falborg spread his mighty wings and ventured out towards the battle field. Kai and Freyan meanwhile were still heading down to the stables, not caring to change their armour. Esther was incredibly antsy but Kai had a different mount in mind. Sitting alone was a red fire Drake. The beast belonged to his and Freyan's father. Lifting its weary head, the creature could scarcely believe who it was seeing. "Time to stretch your wings old boy. We'll need your flames out there. Mine won't be enough." Without protest, the Drake stood tall and strong so squires could equip him with his battle armour. Freyan waited patiently for Kai to be ready as he'd already mounted his horse having explained to Paine he wasn't yet comfortable in the air and she understood. With his father's mount now ready for battle Kai hauled himself into the saddle. "To the perch, Arathor. Let us give these beasts something to scream about." Arathor snorted loudly and made his way up a large ramp. Freyan started to head out, keeping an eye open for his brother. High above him he could see Arathor perched at the edge of an opening. The Drake let out a mighty, demand respecting roar and lunged into the air, his wings snapping open in all their magnificence. Deep down, Freyan couldn't fight the feeling that Kai's dark side would come out to play in the heat of battle. Most of all, he worried about Yonah.

It didn't take Kai and Arathor long to reach the battle, gliding beside Falborg as he readied his cargo. Draciel watched the gates go by before dropping from Falborg's back, a light surrounding him. The Earth shook under the weight of a landing Adamantoise, trembling more as it bellowed a fierce war cry. For some time nothing went wrong, Kai and Arathor torched the invaders while evading deadly arrows. Arathor risked a glance over his shoulder when he heard Kai wincing in pain. "Young one?" "Take me higher Arathor. It's happening." "No! You must resist him!" "I haven't the energy left. The fiend waited until now because he knew my Mana level is easily exhausted. You must go higher." Down on the ground Freyan watched at first with confusion as his brother fled the field until realisation dawned upon him. "Kai no!" In the castle, Dranzer had reached her destination after putting on some light armour. Stepping through the large steel door she came face to face with a huge scarlet red dragon chained heavily to the floor. The beast opened an eye when it felt some of the chains binding it come loose. Dranzer met the crimson eye to find she was being glared at. "Now is not the time for arguing, my lord. Kai needs you and so do we. I know you're angry because of what my father did but he only wanted to keep us all safe. We must hurry, Bayne." Before removing the remaining chains, Dranzer climbed onto the beast she named Bayne and gripped his spiky grey mane. "Open the doors! Now man!" The guard did as he was told and turned a large wheel with the aid of two others. Dranzer knew Bayne wanted her off his back but he would have to wait. Using her staff she unbound the last chain.

With an ungodly roar, Bayne lifted into flight. Higher in the sky, a red light burst through the clouds to reveal a winged humanoid creature with all the features of a demon. Freyan didn't need to be told that the beast was his brother as it swooped down and ravaged the enemy. It did so for a few minutes before landing in a cluster of orcs and burst into flames. When they dimmed, a warrior with fiery fists began beating on the creatures around it. Freyan recognized it as Karyl, a form of Kai's demon side that he had control over. It never lasted long and soon the demon took over again, its four wings radiating fire. A roar drew Freyan's attention back toward the castle and he could see something heading their way. Bayne was wasting no time getting to the battle field. With the city cleared, he tossed Dranzer from his back and made for the demon. Suzaku flew to her mistress, knowing what needed to be done. Freyan was too busy watching the large dragon heading towards his brother to notice Dranzer transforming into a beautiful yet fearsome creature, the Phoenikrai. The creature she became was hard to describe but most people believed it to be a cross between a Phoenix and some form of Wyvern yet none of the reptile showed through. Intricate gold armour lined certain parts of her, particularly the head and chest area. Letting out a shrill cry, Dranzer and Suzaku now entered the battle. Freyan's worry escalated as Bayne grew nearer and nearer to his brother who did not recognise friend from foe in his current state.

For a minute or two, dragon and demon dodged each other in the sky until an arrow clipped the demon's wing, granting Bayne the window he needed to grab his foe by the throat. With startling speed he slammed the demon into the ground before unleashing a mightier roar. Bayne's features also changed. Upon his head horns could now be seen sticking up from the back of the skull. They had apparently been flat down across Bayne's head and in their place radiated a yellow light. The underside of his wings were on fire, connected to strong arms that helped to keep him balanced. Combustible scales scattered from the flowing wings as they billowed, leading those who saw the spectacle to believe the wings had no other bones in them. The last change was that of Bayne's mane and the black fur that went from his lower back to the tip of his spiked tail. These parts were no longer fur. They had become fire, signifying great rage. The demon tried to wriggle free but Bayne had a very firm grip. Again the dragon roared as his body crackled with a more intense fire. This energy spread to the demon, drawing it from the host. Bayne released his grip when the demon was gone and Kai lay under him. Freyan had no chance to rush to Kai's side as he was swept up in Bayne's arms and taken toward the castle. His mind was pulled back to the battle as a small horde of goblins came his way. Bayne reached the castle in a matter of minutes, setting Kai down on the floor once he landed in the ballroom. Yonah watched from inside a protective bubble as the mighty creature showed a softer side, nudging Kai's paled cheek. Max spared a glance but kept most of his attention on the door. Something was coming from below.

Kai came around slowly, looking confused at his surroundings until he saw Bayne hovering over him looking quite upset. Kai could scarcely remember what had happened but he knew Brynhildr had taken control of him. Something about Bayne felt familiar to him and Kai's memory soon clicked. He and Bayne shared the same crimson eyes and identical hair. "How can this be? You died 16 years ago yet here you stand in a form none would recognise." "Then consult your beloved Queen. She holds the answers you seek. Now let us go. Those goblins and orcs won't kill themselves. Pray, forgive my harshness with you, my boy. You are free of Brynhildr now" With renewed determination, Kai climbed onto Bayne's back and gripped the grey fur. "Then let us be rid of these beasts." Bayne felt his energy combining with Kai's as he lunged out the window. To the west Kai could see a mass of flying creatures heading toward the battle, sending Bayne in that direction to intercept. It was an army of dragons led by an apparently blind armed Wyvern. In place of eyes it had horns. It and Bayne darted heavenward and circled each other. "Hold, we are not the enemy, good ser." "Then if you are not foe, help us in this fight." Bayne broke his flying line, diving towards the mass of goblins that seemed to grow in number rather than shrink, the Wyvern at his side spewing wind. If Kai had been less hasty he would've seen a marvellous blue dragon with huge hook shaped claws that flew without need of wings. Freyan was relieved to see his brother back to normal.

From the sky above the ocean came a white Phoenikrai and Phoenix. Unlike Dranzer, the new Phoenikrai sported Osprey markings, its eyes blue. The Phoenix had a mane of lavender and armour of Silver. Looking below, Kai saw other creatures had joined the battle. With Driger there was a gold bird who commanded lightning with frightening efficiency. To Draciel's side a serpent had come. It's large fins appeared almost wing like. In time with Dranzer's cry a large brown wolf like creature appeared from a spire of flame. It had massive dark blue horns and menacing yellow eyes. Dranzer and Suzaku met with their white counterparts in the sky, almost dancing with them. A large fist of stone emerged from the ground at startling speed not far from a stone head where a wolf stood. It's appearance was airy and it commanded wind breath like the Wyvern. Goblins went hurtling into the air each time the fist appeared. Just as the battle seemed to be going in favour of the royals, Dranzer and Suzaku both took an arrow to their left thigh. Bayne spiralled almost out of control as Kai felt Dranzer's pain. Kai threw himself from Bayne's back in hopes to reach his Queen in time. Dranzer reverted back to her human form in time for Kai's arms to embrace her before they both landed upon a feathered back. Suzaku on the other hand had crash landed by the city walls but not before the blue wingless dragon caught her. With the wounded Phoenix in its claws the dragon flew to the castle alongside the white Phoenikrai. Those left in the hall were speechless at seeing Dranzer and Suzaku both pierced by an arrow. First Suzaku was set down, then Dranzer against her wing. It was a sad sight for most to behold.

It was apparent that goblins had found their way into the castle as Max and Rei were fighting the beasts off with the help of a rather large monkey. Kai refused to leave Dranzer's side, pulling the arrow from her leg while trying to be gentle. The horned dragon came swooping into the room just as the wingless one plucked the arrow from Suzaku. "Stay with Suzaku, Seiryuu. Do not fret, Dranzer. We'll deal with those curs." Dranzer smiled through her pain as the pinkette girl who marched with Driger's company did what she could to heal the wound. "You're late…Dragoon. I must admit I was a smudge careless this time. Do not worry for me, Kai. I'll be all right. Go now and defend the castle. You must not let them breach the gate." "That I cannot do because they've found a way in. Lucky we have fighters in here." Ignoring the pain searing through his thigh, Kai turned to the white Phoenikrai with concentrated rage on his face. "Might I ask your help icy one?" "To protect my cousin, I'll fight anything. Just don't expect my body to be warm like the creatures of your country. How fare you bareback?" "Well enough." Hauling himself onto the creature's back Kai found that he was indeed cold blooded. They spared Dranzer one last look before taking once again to the sky. Dragoon wasn't far behind. As Bayne flew by, Kai pounced onto his back, unable to stand the cold feathers of his previous mount. "Let us show these fiends what happens when they mess with the wrong country." Bayne had no argument, soaring back toward the battlefield.

In the ballroom, the goblin numbers thinned but they kept coming. Yonah worried for the Queen and her Phoenix. It wasn't often they got hurt. She was distracted by a large cat, almost the size of a tiger. It had pale grey fur and a head of Silver hair. The feline also owned a mane of the same colour, it's eyes a shade of blue like Yonah's. The cat's tail was tufted and mildly Fluffy. Yonah was quite worried as the feline approached her but it seemed friendly. Upon closer inspection, the cat was confirmed to be female. Before Yonah could speak, the cat set a paw upon a necklace she wore. It was made of Silver and pearls in the shape of an angel. What happened next, Yonah could not believe. The cat became part human and possessed huge claws. Her mane went a ways down to the stomach area. Yonah opened her mouth to speak just as Rei was taken down by an arrow to the shoulder. Seeing Rei go down angered the new Felinian and she expressed her rage by ripping the goblins to shreds. Deep down, Yonah felt that she was somehow connected to this beautiful creature. Soon no more goblins roamed the castle, allowing those inside to rest easy. Yonah escaped the bubble and knelt beside Rei, placing his head in her lap. "Rei? Rei wake up!" With the threat purged, Max sheathed his mace and removed the arrow from Rei's shoulder. Luckily the young prince wasn't bleeding too badly. The unnamed, unknown Felinian placed her paw over Yonah's hand as she tried to prevent Rei from bleeding out. Those left in the room were struck with awe as a bright, soothing light embraced the tiger's shoulder, sealing the wound entirely. Rei came to, having passed out when the arrow struck.

Outside, the army was finally thinning out, much to Kai's relief. All the magic casting was tiring him out. Out of nowhere, icebergs shot out from the ground. Near Draciel Kai spied a beautiful maiden with pointy ears and skin of blue. She attacked with each cry from Dranzer's white cousin while his Phoenix dealt with a small flock of harpies coming in from the east. When the last goblin fell, the victorious party unleashed a mighty cry of success that was unfortunately drowned out by Draciel. Even Dragoon's small army joined in except for one Wind Drake. On it's back was a knight and a girl gagged and blindfolded. Before heading back to the castle, Kai sent Bayne to collect Freyan, who was none too pleased to be snatched from the saddle of his horse. "Relax Freyan, I won't let you fall." "Why do you fight with this beast after what it did to you?!" "When we reach the palace you'll see. Besides, I'm free of the demon thanks to him. You should be grateful for Bayne's arrival, Freyan." Said sibling kept his mouth and eyes shut, focusing on anything but the fact he was fairly high above the ground. The battle now over, the weary soldiers made the march back to the castle. Dranzer was relieved to see Kai back unharmed, leaning on Wyborg for support. Freyan was off Bayne's back faster than lightning but in doing so, he came face to face with the mighty creature. It was then he knew why Kai fought so well with the dragon, memories flashing before his eyes. Kai glued himself to Dranzer's side, not wanting her to come to more harm.

Four of the aerial allies drifted into the ballroom from the balcony; the Phoenix and his master, and Dragoon though his companion seemed happy enough staying outside astride their Wyvern perched on the balcony rail. Bayne looked around the room until he laid his eyes on the female Felinian sitting beside Rei and she noticed him too. Yonah was left dumbfounded as the two creatures greatly different in size gave each other affection, confirming Freyan's suspicion though he and Kai were both shocked to see the cat. Driger came bounding over the balcony rail, the black lion close behind. Rei stood up the best he was able, supported by Max. Freyan moved to stand by his brother, not wanting to stand too close to the scarlet dragon. "Kai…do you think that's…?" "It's possible if you've already figured out Bayne's true identity." Dranzer listened quietly, wondering how long it would take the brothers to question her but they only looked to her in silence. "I'm sorry. For years I've wanted to say something but mother made me promise not to until the time was right. Yes, the Felinian is your mother. And the dragon your father. But them being here comes at a price, as all must. You cannot address them by name or the spell will be broken. Speaking of them by name should have no effect. But to their faces, t'would break the magic binding them to this world." "Are they…human?" Dranzer shook her head to Freyan's question and he seemed to sadden. "They are but part of their former spirit given physical form to protect this kingdom. Bayne…put up quite a fight so we had to have him chained up to avoid calamity. And mildly sedated." Being reminded of this bribed a growl from mentioned dragon.

Without hearing a word, Dranzer knew Kai and Freyan would be wondering if their parents could take human form, the tip of her staff glowing. Seaborg stood by a folding screen, signalling for dragon and cat to stand behind it as some squires came in laden with clothes. Both creatures did so but rather nervously. Dranzer momentarily turned her attention to Dragoon. "Are you honestly going to stay like that all day Dragoon?" "I would revert to my human form but Takao has yet to arrive with my supply bag in which I'll find my shirt." "Oh you bashful idiot. I'll have someone send for him immediately. Snowber, my dear, I trust you came better prepared." The Phoenikrai in question nodded and signalled to his Phoenix. Upon its back a bag had been strapped. He had less shame than the western King, becoming human hastily. Snowber was a handsome man with long hair of lavender and eyes of blue. Age wise, he was older than all the kings, possibly reaching his forties yet his figure remained firm and mildly buff. In his hand was a staff identical to Dranzer's only silver instead of gold. Snowber's skin was already beading with sweat despite only being human for a couple of minutes. The white Phoenix stretched its wings gladly with the bag removed. From it Snowber pulled out a sleeveless shirt of cream lined with intricate gold details. Next he placed identical bracers on his arms. All eyes drifted to where Bayne and his feline companion went only to find their heads were not visible. Seaborg stayed close by just in case.

Some talking could be vaguely heard, a clear signal the beasts were now human. Dranzer readied herself for some form of wrath from ser Auron. Yonah on the other hand was feeling very lost as she eased herself back into a chair. The wait came to an end as a man identical to Kai and a woman with Freyan's features stepped out from behind the screen. Neither brother could believe their eyes. "Well don't just stand there, go greet them properly." Freyan was the first to move with Kai not far behind, both embracing their aged twin. They cared not for those who watched, allowing their tears to fall. Sixteen long years they'd waited to hold their parents again and now that day was here. Despite what she was seeing, Yonah still couldn't figure out what was going on. Deep down, Dranzer felt horrible, wanting to see her parents again too. "Hush now, my darling. You've grown so much." "Mamae…" The woman smiled, her blue eyes shimmering with tears…until Driger tried approaching her. She backed away with a very venomous hiss, eyes like knives. "Stay away from me you fiend." Driger had no idea what he'd done wrong, noticing the woman's ears were much pointier than his. Ser Auron, Kai and Freyan also noticed the sudden change in ear shape. "I beg your pardon milady? I do not recall having seen you before. Yet…I seem to recognise you somehow. Are you from Xian perhaps?" "Aye I'm from your beloved country but I left that place years ago no thanks to King Dregger." Driger's eyes were wide with shock but Silvanna held her ground. "That monster tried everything he could think of to get me in his castle, even tried to rape me. I did not desire power and he was too blind to accept my refusal."

"W-What? My father would never do such a vile thing!" "You're disillusioned young prince…" "King! I am not a prince." Driger raising his voice woke something in Auron as he snatched the sword from Kai's back and pointed it at Driger's throat. "A King does not threaten his subjects or repress them. Instead, he endeavours to help them with all his power. A King is nothing without his people. I'd hoped this lesson stayed with you, Driger. But apparently your father's influence was too strong." "Y-you? I…It did stay with me, my lord. But hearing my father accused of such villainy…" "My wife speaks the truth. Your father was a vile King. He gave nothing to his people, even taught you to be a royal ass. Until me and King Drenzer paid a visit. You pointed your sword at me and learned what it is to be a King. And your mother…she was a broken woman. I could see she had no love for your father whatsoever. At that time, she was carrying your brother." "Aye ser, I remember. But why would my father do such things?" "He was raised wrong. Tell me, where is your brother?" Driger was uneasy, remembering one fact about Auron. He was dangerous, like a bomb waiting to explode. "I do not desire to hurt him. Your mother was worried for him as was I. There is a demon in every royal family except Dranzer's." "Then you know? About Ixion?" Auron nodded and Driger meekly stepped aside. During all the distractions, Rei had returned to human form. Seeing the young prince caused Auron's arm to burst into flames.

Thankfully Seaborg was close by with a large bucket of water for Auron to stick his arm into. Nobody really understood what had happened, looking from Rei to Auron. Having seen Brynhildr's reaction, Driger put himself between Auron and his brother. "It's as I feared. The beast is strong within him." "Father?" "Kai, there's something you should know about the beasts we call demons. Despite their name, these creatures are actually fallen Gods. Brynhildr was the guardian of Fiorre until Ifrit came along and pushed him aside. He wasn't always an evil dragon. But being beaten sent him into a constant state of rage. These "Gods" can tell when another is being reborn. Well, perhaps reborn isn't quite the word. I was not born with Brynhildr. He was sealed inside me to protect the region. Others select their host. Preferably children of the royal family. I knew Rei would be host to Ixion, former God of Xian who was replaced by Quetzacotl, bird of thunder storms. I'm sure Queen Panthera understood the hardships Rei would have to bear." Kai took a moment to think, remembering that Brynhildr had been very uncomfortable with Rei nearby. And oddly enough Max aroused a similar unease within the beast. "The reaction is not always so violent however. Some Gods are simply just nervous of others. I do believe Veneficium is alive somewhere but I've been dead sixteen years. A lot could have changed." "But wouldn't someone half demon be immune to death by natural causes such as age?" "It's possible but we know so little about cases such as possession. I can say we're not immortal as I'm sure you know well." Kai nodded, trying not to remember the day Auron died though it was also the day of Yonah's birth.

All conversation died when a knight in blue armour stepped into the hall, the chained young woman with them. Dragoon took a small bag from the knight and vanished behind the folding screen. Dranzer eyed the girl carefully. Her clothes were rather tatty, hair a mess and she was very thin. Minutes later Dragoon returned as a human. He was devilishly good looking with spiked up sky blue hair and gold eyes, a spherical shaped Ruby upon his forehead. Age wise out of the youngest rulers, Dragoon appeared to be the eldest, aged almost thirty. His figure was quite broad yet also thin. One minute he was smiling cheekily, the next Dranzer wiped said grin away with a rather sharp slap to the King's face. "Ow! Hey what was that for?!" "I thought you were better than that Dragoon." "Wha? The hell girl? Rewind a bit and start from the top. What got your panties in a knot?" Kai and the other Fiorrians were very surprised by Dragoon's behaviour. They had not expected a King to speak in such a way. In response, Dranzer pointed at the girl. "It's not like that Dranzer. Sheesh and I thought your old man jumped to conclusions too much. She's not a slave. It shames me to admit it, but I need your help, Dranzer." "How so?" "The girl is being hunted by people of Xianese origin for reasons I cannot fathom. My men found her a few weeks ago in the back streets. She refuses to wear the clothes we give her, eat the food we prepare. I'm at a loss of what to do." Dranzer had to think carefully about the situation, her eyes dangerously on Driger.

The eastern King wasn't fond of the glare in Dranzer's green eyes, taking a few steps back for his own safety. Auron and Silvanna were distracted by Yonah coughing rather hard, prompting her brothers to act with haste. "I-I'm okay." "You need to rest, Yonah. You've been out of bed too long." "Balderdash, Freyan. I can be outside for longer than this and you know it." "Now see here young lady…" Freyan was silenced by Silvanna sitting beside Yonah, taking her hand softly. "You're so much more beautiful than I'd imagined you'd be. Tell me Yonah. Do you know who I am? Does my face not look familiar?" Said girl looked from Silvanna to Freyan a few times before it finally clicked. "M-Mama? But…you went away…" "Hush darling I know. Tis thanks to Dranzer's mother I'm still here. Well, part of me anyway. And who might this young man be?" Silvanna's eyes were on Max but Kai and Freyan wanted to know why their mothers' ears had turned pointy so suddenly. "Um… mother…why are your ears…?" "Hm? Oh, shoot. I've done it again. I guess the truth is out then. Not even your father knew. I'm not exactly a Neko-Jin and neither human or elf. I'm a mix of all three. My father was half man half elf. He was a travelling peddler before meeting my mother. His genes overpowered hers so I have little physicality of Neko-Jin." "So…does this mean you've lived a long time? Longer than father?" Silvanna nodded to Kai, looking toward her apparently very surprised husband. "Yes I had lived long. My father's Elven blood ran strong in me. As I'm sure you know, Elves have lengthy life spans but they are not immortal. Pure blooded, they can live for well over 1000 years. Honestly, I lost track of how old I was many times."

Dranzer listened quietly as she considered Dragoon's proposal. First she wanted to know why the girl was being hunted in the first place, turning once again to Driger. "Well, what say you in your defence Driger?" "I…I'm lost. Truly I am. I would never order an attack on a young woman for certain." "But people from your country have hunted her and still are." "Dragoon, what of her family?" Questioned King folded his arms and tilted his head to the side, face thoughtful. "Hmm. We've never found any and she refuses to answer our questions about their whereabouts. I think it's possible she's the last of her family, Driger. But I don't understand why they'd be hunted. I met her father in the market a few times and he was a very kind man. Never hurt anybody in his life. O'course I was just a boy when last I saw him." Something soon clicked in Driger's memory, wondering if that was truly the cause of this maiden's suffering. "No, it can't be that. Why would they?" "Driger?" "Dranzer, I'm sure you remember that my father did not die in the war. Instead he was assassinated by an unnamed guard. Some of the village folk believed a Shapeshifter was to blame for his murder so a few tribes set out in search of any and all Shapeshifters they could find and killed them, their families too. I have recently noticed Tegual numbers have dropped drastically over the years. They're almost extinct if Galux is to be believed. But I can find no link between this girl and what happened to my father." Driger looked to said girl with pity in his eyes.

Her options were few, Dranzer knew that. If the girl returned to Drakhma she would die. Keeping her in Firos would extend her life, but by how much? Nobody dared to move when the girl tried fighting against the knight who held the chains binding her. Ignoring Dragoon's presence, Kai grabbed the nearest club and thwacked the knight over the head, taking the chain from his slackened grip. "The heck do you think you're doing? Explain yourself!" "Kai is a man of few words, Dragoon. Especially to strangers. Just let him be. He's on to something, I can feel it." While Dranzer and Dragoon had been distracted, Kai managed to get closer to the girl, slowly reaching out to her. "There now, you're safe here. The less you fight the less I'll pull. Now I'm gonna take this blindfold off, okay?" Tension was thick in the air as Kai slowly pulled the cloth away from the girls' eyes. With it gone she cringed at the sudden burst of light. Kai's crimson eyes met with startled pits of Ruby as they darted around. "See? No harm done." Now that the girl could see, she wasn't too fond of Kai's hand getting close, growling loudly. He took the risk of removing the cloth gag only to be nearly bitten. "Well aren't you feisty? But I don't like my girls to be all nippy. Calm down. I mean you no harm." The girl was having none of Kai's soothing, her eyes on his ear. Kai hadn't unbound the chains, so what could she do? Simple, she made to bite Kai's ear in self defence. Gasps were all around as the girl pinned Kai to the floor but he was able to hold her at a safe distance. "Well now I didn't expect this so soon. Sadly I don't find myself wanting right now so you'll have to un-mount me my dear." Kai's friendly flirting went down the wrong way most unfortunately.

He'd foolishly left a knife attached to his belt and the girl quickly armed herself with it but Kai's reflexes were faster, throwing her off without struggle. "This is where I draw the line. I've tried to be friendly but I see you're past the point of reasoning. Tis not in my nature to hurt a lady but if you force my hand…" Force it she did. Kai dodged smoothly as the girl swung the knife at him, unhappy to find all of her attacks missed. Seeing how poorly the brunette took to Kai, Dranzer tried to intervene. Sadly the frightened maiden turned on her. With a wounded leg Dranzer was unable to move out of harm's way. Snapping her eyes shut she waited for the knife to dig into her side but instead, heard it scraping against metal. Risking a glance, Dranzer saw Kai standing in front of her, the knife in his shoulder where his armour left a gap. "K-Kai?" "Stand back milady. Tis not wise to approach her right now." Those in the room not used to blood cringed as Kai eased the knife out of his shoulder and proceeded to slam it point first into the floor. Given the circumstances, Kai ignored his morals, backhanding the young girl quite hard. She stumbled back with a shriek of agony, her cheek quickly swelling from the force that met it. For now it was deemed unwise for the two to be anywhere near each other. Freyan made doubly sure Yonah stayed away from the fiery lass. Looking to his brother, Kai noticed Freyan's ears were very pointy. "Freyan." "Yes brother?" "Your ears…they're not rounded anymore." Freyan's eyes grew wide. "N-Neither are yours."

Silvanna sighed heavily; taking note that Yonah also possessed elf ears. The matter was abandoned when ser Auron tried approaching Freyan but his blue eyed son backed away, fear rife in his eyes. This behaviour confused everyone, Kai especially. Auron knew why Freyan shied from him and this knowledge caused him great pain. "After seventeen years you still haven't forgiven me?" Kai would've asked what was going on but Auron inched closer to Freyan who constantly moved away. Silvanna wasn't lost for long, remembering the day that changed how Freyan viewed his father. Falborg also had flashbacks to that day. Freyan's heart was pounding hard as Auron approached him but he did not see his father. In his place stood the monster that had scarred him for life. Kai tried to comfort Freyan but he was shrugged away quite hastily. "Freyan? What's gotten into you? I thought you wanted to see father again?" When ser Auron got within a few paces of Freyan he was set upon by a second tier spell, flipping back before landing face down. Freyan came out of his panicked state to see Auron on the floor, flickers of flames spitting from his back. Seeing what he'd done out of sheer panic caused Freyan to bolt out of the room. Wanting answers, Kai followed after his brother. By the time Kai caught up to his blue eyed sibling, Freyan was on his bed crying, a very nasty burn wound on his neck. How had this injury escaped notice until now? Had Freyan mastered the Elven skill to hide wounds from sight? It had always bothered Kai how Freyan's arm was not scarred by his flames but now the warped skin was clear to see. Before Freyan could be harassed further, Silvanna dragged her first born out of the room by his ear much to Kai's displeasure.

Yonah and Auron were on opposite sofas to each other, Auron's clothes dripping with water so Kai figured his father had to be doused to quell flames. Silvanna sat down, signalling for Kai to do the same. "Mother, what is going on? Where'd that scar on Freyan's neck come from?" "Seventeen years ago some bandits attacked the city. Your father went out to deal with them as he usually did but Brynhildr took the chance to quench his thirst for destruction. I had been in the throne room at the time with Freyan, Falborg and the Queen. You probably don't remember Kai but Freyan never was close to your father. He always suspected a different man was his father because most children born to a Hiwatari take after their father from features to temperament. You spent so much time with your dad that Freyan felt left out, that he wasn't loved. Falborg remembered seeing your father going out the city gates and when asked by Freyan, he took him down there. But it was the biggest mistake Falborg would ever make. Brynhildr had not yet relinquished his hold on Auron so when Freyan approached the beast he was grabbed around the throat by a fiery hand. If not for Seaborg's father your brother would be dead. For a few days you weren't allowed to interact with Freyan as I tried to heal his wound. In the end all I could do was hide it, planting the memory of the incantation in Freyan's mind so that if the time came, he could use it to hide a grievous wound. It wasn't your father's fault. He had no control over his actions. Look at what it's done to him, Kai."

Looking to Auron, Kai could see nothing of the father he remembered. The man in front of him now was broken hearted with a head hung in shame. Kai figured that Auron had caged himself up after Brynhildr attacked Freyan. It was Auron's way of punishing himself for succumbing to the creature put inside him. Kai was angry, but at who? His father who could not control a demon? Or Falborg who should've known better? Kai knew it was no easy task to keep Brynhildr under control. At the very same moment Kai was about to explode at ser Auron, Falborg came into the room, firing a Blaze spell in his direction. The attack left Falborg dazed and gave Kai time to grab him by the throat, eyes wildly on fire. "You knew how dangerous Brynhildr could be so why'd you do it?! Because of YOUR stupidity my brother was almost killed! Why Falborg?!" Dranzer's Falconian advisor did not answer, too busy trying to fight the intense heat eating away at his chest. Auron came out of his shell enough to drag Kai away from Falborg before he did something he'd regret. "Why blame him when I was the one too weak to fight Brynhildr? You should be blaming me, the one who caused that wound." "It wasn't your fault! As far as I'm concerned, it was not you who attacked Freyan. It was Brynhildr. The attack never would have happened if Freyan stayed here in the castle until that monster was gone. I know it's hard to contain him, father. When you died, Brynhildr made a beeline for me. Everyone and everything believes my brother is weak. But he's not. Freyan could never be weak. It's just not possible." With Kai now calm he was pulled into Auron's arms. Silvanna held Yonah close as she cried for her brother.

About an hour later, Kai was called to the throne room, no doubt to properly meet Dragoon and the knight he'd clobbered. Upon arriving Kai saw Dragoon very close to Dranzer, moving with speed to remove him but Draciel plucked him from the ground. "Put me down you oaf!" "That's no way to address a King, young man." "I don't care! Put me down or you'll be sorry!" Dragoon could see it was his proximity to Dranzer that set Kai off, wisely moving away. With the western King now half way across the room, Draciel put Kai's feet back on the ground so he could kneel to his Queen. "How fares your brother?" "Not well, my lady. He shows no signs of forgiving my father any time soon. Freyan refuses to come out of his room." "Give him time is all I can say. I never got the chance to introduce you to Dragoon and Snowber earlier." "You needn't concern yourself with such trivialities. Tis clear as day that lord Snowber is your kin. I believe he called you cousin." "Yes. My father had a brother who moved to Draciel's continent where his hair turned lavender. Snowber himself is not a King however. He merely rules the frozen mountains encompassing Aquallis. Shimo Suzaku is his loyal ice Phoenix. Dragoon as I'm sure you've guessed is the King of Drakhma. The knight you belted was his nephew Takao. His other nephew Hitoshi is out on the balcony with his Wyvern Tima." Although he really didn't want to, Kai bowed to Dragoon and the elder male bowed back in respect. Kai's eyes then wandered to Seiryuu who stood nearby.


Okay songs! Song one, the theme of the movie Black Beauty. Song two, theme of one of my favourite films; Homeward Bound (The Incredible Journey). Song three to my knowledge doesn't have a proper name but it's the SeeD graduation dance from Final Fantasy 8. Song four, Eternal Harvest from Final Fantasy 9 performed in Cleyra by your party member Freya (a rat girl). One of my favourite songs of the series. Song five, Vamo' Alla Flamenco from Final Fantasy 9 (also called Chocbo hot 'n' cold). And finally, song six, the theme to Jurassic Park.

Now with those out of the way, Bayne's appearance! He's based on Gore Magala from Monster Hunter 4U but obviously I made my own tweaks, i.e his horns go the opposite way to Gore's and he has his hair on the neck and tail (coz he's really Kai's dad)

As for the other beasts, they are summons from Final Fantasy games (Not including Dranzer or Snowber of course.) So leviathan, Final Fantasy 9 version. There aren't many versions of Leviathan and I was fairly torn between 9 and 8. Shiva, Final Fantasy 8. One of my favourite designs. Quetzacotl, another Final Fantasy 8 summon. Ifrit, now I didn't go into much detail but this is the Final Fantasy 8 version at current. He will eventually (hopefully) evolve into the Ifrit from Final Fantasy 10. The wolf and stone head is Fenrir from Final Fantasy 9. I wanted to use Pandemona from 8 but felt he didn't fit and I don't know of many wind element summons within the Final Fantasy universe. Valefore from 10 will make an appearance at some point later in the story. And finally we're onto Dragoon's beast mode. He is Bahamut from Final Fantasy 9. Now there's mention of Ixion, a Final Fantasy 10 summon (this is where I first encountered him and fell in love with him) As he is a "Fallen God" or Demon as the people of Vitriol call them, he won't get a lot of screen time. I mentioned Veneficium, a fusion monster from Shadow Hearts Covenant. He's my personal favourite beside Grano's line.

There will be a couple more summons in the future and possible other fusion monsters also. Chapter five is underway but I can't say when it will be complete.