Chapter 10- Hope Moves Forward
A/N: Some fluff and the Charo episode! Also, I couldn't make out the nice Chef's name in Charo's episode? I just heard Haseru and rolled with it. So if you know for sure it's different please let me know and I'll edit my goof up~ Also I summarized the 'Agen' episode as it felt filler-like to me. So I opted by adding an extra scene and ending before the series gets more serious again. Thanks to "TheChesireCat1", StarMaiden for always talking with me and giving me great ideas. Also special thanks to PikaKnight for their awesome and inspiring one-shots!
The gentle waves of the ocean were the few sounds to cover the silent moment. Well, that and the two boisterous egg-shaped dragons from a distance. Ace squeezed the soft pale hand within his own tightly. He rested his head against the soft fabric over Lance's chest. He's able to ease the worry over his hammering heartbeat when he hearts Lance's heart beating in sync with his own.
The older boy chuckled lightly, at the feeling of Ace nuzzling against him. Lance turned his head to the side and glanced down with a dreamy gaze. He brushed his lips upon the crown of Ace's head. "Ace," His voice soothed out the young boy's name. Ace's eyes glanced up towards his precious rival. The stars above were reflected within the two orbs of blue, simply sparkling like crystals.
The words locked away for so long were finally understood and finally spoken. Ace glanced up entirely delirious and love-sick. He couldn't stop the smile that formed when Lance met his gaze. The white-blond teen couldn't help but to lean down and seal his lips over that smile. Their lips melded, soft, slow and gently as though to make it last an eternity.
While Lance's eyes closed upon contact, Ace couldn't help but keep his eyes open for a just a few seconds. He wanted to see this tender side of Lance. He soon realized this idea was terrible for his heart. Lance's closed eyes and somewhat long eyelashes looked absolutely beautiful. Lance's face was free from any lines of worry and seemed to be at peace. He looked absolutely enchanting. Ace felt his chest swell with pride, at the thought of being what made Lance look so calm. It became far harder to will his eyes open, as Lance kissed him harder. Ace nearly mewled from the contact and faster pace where Lance's lips captured his own. Perhaps, his precious love and rival had caught on to him. A hand squeezed at his own reassuringly.
Ace felt a spark in his chest as Lance's hands moved up to cradle the back of his head. Skilled and long fingers buried themselves in Ace's hair. Ace's eyes closed softly and he fully immersed himself in the kiss. They parted for a brief moment and looked longingly into each other's eyes. Yellow met and became lost in a vast sky of blue. Lance's gaze always felt so intense. Ace wished he could calm himself enough to breathe properly beneath it. He wished he fully understood each and every look his quiet partner gave him. Ace beamed up at Lance.
Perhaps, he also loved the challenge and mystery that came with understanding Lance.
Lance leaned forward and captured Ace's lips in a chaste kiss. Again. And Again. Once more again. Ace met with each brief yet caring kiss. The older teen's lips seemed to be on a mission to move and worship every centimeter of skin over Ace's face and collarbone. Lips met over Ace's forehead, eyelids, nose, and cheeks. Ace was pink alongside his devoted lover, but he felt himself leaning himself into every gentle kiss. Lance's lips moved down to tenderly caress around Ace's jawline and part way down his neck. Finally, Lance grasped for Ace's hand and held it within his own. He brought their joined hands up to his lips. A silent promise of devotion was made as Lance kissed the top of Ace's hands. It kind of reminded Ace of a Knight swearing his loyalty. So fitting somehow.
Ace flustered under all the affection, but couldn't help but smile. He wrapped his arms around Lance's neck when he was sure his lover's 'mission' was complete. He smiled and pressed his lips to Lance's cheeks and back to the older boy's lips craving that soft touch. Their temples met together as their noses seemed to brush in an Eskimo kiss. Ace laughed softly and reveled in the feeling of Lance's arms embracing him and holding him so tenderly.
The two looked forward, blissfully towards their beloved monsters playing down on the beach. Tamazo, Ouka, and even Devi had engaged in some game of tag. They were running around as though they had no worries in the world. Their partners were thankful they could have this moment.
Somewhere, amongst the barrage of very high pitched-"Tamas" and "Devis", Ace could hear a bit of their conversation. Tamazo boldly pointed his round hand towards the new couple. "Look they're finally done, Tama! I thought they would never quit!"
Ace blushed a bright red at the comment. How had he gotten wrapped up so easily? One glance into those tender yet passionate yellow eyes gave him his answer. "Aghh," Ace groaned and mumbled some string of words into Lance's chest.
Devi pinched both of his counterpart's cheeks and lectured him. "That's rude. You need to learn how to read a room, Devi!"
Lance unfairly seemed to return to his usual unreadable expression. His cheeks had tinted a pink but seemed to return to normal far quicker. It seemed Ace's rival still held a record for composing himself. He could feel the rise in Lance's chest as the older boy chuckled at Ace's behavior. Ace looked up towards his lover with pouty lips. His hand glided over the space where his head had been. Blue eyes widened at the feeling of, bandages, likely layers around Lance's chest.
"Lance?" Ace called out with worry, and he couldn't stop his lips from quivering. Lance's eyes shook just a bit as he gazed down at his beloved.
"It's alright," Lance assured the younger male. He placed his hand over Ace's and held it tightly.
Ace shook his head, "I knew you were pushing yourself."
"I'm fine, Ace," Lance added once more.
"You should be resting…" Ace added softly, "I'm so-" Lance quickly cut off his unneeded apology with a tender kiss.
"I needed to see you," Lance professed deeply, with an unwavering conviction in his golden eyes. Ace felt himself shiver at the words, Lance's breath was still ghosting over his lips. Ace sighed and pressed his head back against Lance's chest. He pressed a soft and tender kiss on the part where he could feel Lance's bandaged wounds. "You're so important to me...so please take care of yourself," Ace's voice broke out and Lance embraced him incredibly tightly. Ace hadn't minded; he was flooded with warmth.
"I will," Lance promised and brushed his lips over the top of Ace's head. "I'll go back to rest soon, but first…" Lance cut himself off and looked down to meet Ace's gaze.
"But first?" Ace repeated in an amused tone.
"I'm going to savor this," Lance finished and sealed a kiss on Ace's lips once more. Ace fell further into their moment. He couldn't quite argue with that. He wanted this just as much as Lance did.
Darkness settled in throughout the night sky. From beyond the beauty of nature outside was a cold and hollow castle. The ancient of light walked calmly through a labyrinth of a hallway. Shadows overtook the patches of light on the ground. Jest stopped suddenly while arriving just beyond the castle's reach.
The ancient of light smiled wickedly. "It seems it's time to start the next phase," he proclaimed with a devious grin on his face.
Above Jest was a harrowing sight. A gigantic monster with wings as black as the night, and a body that easily rivaled the height of the castle. Despair overflowed all along the scenery. It was a devil monster like no other. An Archdemon.
It had only been days since Jest planned the next phase of his 'mission' with his newest accomplice.
Now, at the pinnacle of his tower, Jest was surrounded by his underlings. They were all wrapped up in their burgundy hooded cloaks. The dominions waited patiently, around a large wooden table to hear their master's words.
"Well now, with the next mission..." Jest paused and scanned the room. His eyes turned cold and stilled. "You will give me your report later," Jest turned his gaze towards a particular Dragonoid.
The man had light white hair and green wings behind his back. There was a tint of anger in his dark yellow eyes and a narrowing of eyebrows. "I have been waiting for a while to hear of your progress," Jest more demands then states.
"That is...Still, I am..." Klein began with apprehension. His mind retreated back towards the guilt that settled from his latest mission. He had retreated, and after everything he had done, he was forgiven. He was saved by that kid, and by the grace of Torlei.
"Dominions power is to be unshakable," Jest turns his gaze away towards the group, "However, to proceed to the next step. The guild must be completely destroyed!"
Klein looks down with conflicted emotions, "Master Jest!" He protests but is unable to talk any further. Jest's eyes glance towards him with a cold steely gaze.
"What's the problem here?" Jest glared at Klein. The tension in the air could be cut with a knife, The lines on Jest's face seemed to only make him more sinister.
"Ah, it's nothing…" Klein had managed to fumble out. His gaze reaches the floor.
"I want to continue the growth of Dominion but I also know that Torlei must be dealt with." Jest sternly clarified. He met the eyes of every minion in the room.
"Torlei…?" Klein spoke out with hesitance and avoided the cold gaze.
"I still haven't gotten him to talk. He's become troublesome, and should be dealt with now.." Jest explains.
Klein responds softly, "I understand" and bows his head. With a mind filled with confliction and regret, he leaves the room.
Despite the perilous battle, between Lance and Ace, coming to an end, there was still trouble from Dominion. Several drop impacts were arising from all around the city of Crocus.
Garnet, Tiger, and Ace were all fully cloaked in their soul armors and were working towards restoring balance. They acted like shields from the incoming drop impacts and protected the city from the damage of the immense number of drops.
"Now is the time where we need to do our best, especially with Eldora and Vahaton still injured," Ace explained and raised his arms out in front of him. He gathered his energy up and canceled out the colorful drops.
"I agree, but even so...I-" Charo paused. There was a watery shimmer within the young boy's soft green eyes. Ace looked towards his younger friend with surprise and concern for his actions.
"Although we've seen so many fights before, like with Vahaton and Lance, I've found it hard to clearly see them. It's somehow becoming harder to see the drops..." Charo laments this sadly and looks towards the ground. He could feel a harrowing ache in his chest.
"Watch out!" Garnet shouts as she notices another crack in the pavement spreading. Charo hadn't moved, and it seemed another drop impact was going to take place so soon!
Ace caught wind of the situation. He quickly rushed over to his friend. He notices the light from the impact moving towards Charo. The Auburn teen swoops in and wraps his arms around his friend. He grasps the blond and flies them both over several yards away from the impact. They're safe.
"Thank you, Ace" Charo looks up towards his friends with soft and sincere eyes. There's still something broken and shaking in them.
Ace looks down worriedly but only says. "Ah, no problem."
Are you okay? Is what Ace means to ask but there's something almost heartbreaking about the young boy.
Charo smiles up at him and watches as Ace moves back over towards the city.
The blonde hums softly to himself. "This time...I wish we could come and see you, Master Torlei…."
Maybe then I'll be able to see the drops again.
There had been no signs of the Ancient of fire returning back to consciousness. Still, Charo had been ever vigilant in trying. The young blond walked past the hidden cave, behind the waterfall. In his arms was a basket of bright red apples. A smile laced over his lips as he thought of helping out the Ancients.
However, as he turned the corner, he once again found Eldora in her resting place. Her eyes were closed and she had shown no signs of movement. She was still resting amongst the bed of flowers, not a muscle moved out of place.
The young blond let out a heavy sigh. Charo turned back and leaned against a wall. He sighed sadly, "I had hoped you would be able to eat even a little by now..but it seems you're still in this state."
Charo took one more glance back and murmured sadly, "I guess it can't be helped," before turning away.
However, a familiar voice calling the name of his beloved Master Torlei caught the young boy's attention.
"Ah! Torlei" Vahaton must have been speaking from somewhere within the cave. Charo followed the source of the sound. His eyes perked up as he turned his head towards all directions.
Another young dragon caller was talking about the ancient. "Our sources say that he had been confined to a part in an old castle."
"It's no longer just a start of something menacing. Everything regarding Jest has been progressing so swiftly.," Vahaton laments as he shakes his head. He's speaking with a young human dragon caller.
The young brunet frowns and his eyes meet the ground timidly. "They're not holding back. As Jest has been leaving all of his captives exhausted by a severe and grueling interrogation. But your physical strength seems to be exhausted" The young boy proceeds to tell him.
Still, even in his weakened state Vahaton looks up towards the young boy. "I still want to help in any way I can," He assures.
"The very source...the heartbeat of these drop impacts is still so powerful. Dragonoids that follow Jest can be hard to trust. They're told not to turn from Jest's side or question his motives," he lamented.
Vahaton twiddled the end of his beard, with his forefinger and thumb. He thought over this."We will have to be very careful. For the most part, Dragoza island is still being controlled by dominion, after all," Vahaton trails off. He then shakes his head. "No. It is controlled by Jest. In order to stop the disturbance, the town of Crocus and the city of Libriya will need to unite. The people will have to work together to bring hope and their home's to the previous state."
The brunette boy across from Vahaton looked over at the ancient, skeptically. "I do hope that can happen. Is there really a possibility to restore Libriya without Master Torlei?" The boy inquires of the other. Neither are away that the young blond is standing right behind the room's walls.
Vahaton answers this calmly. "We will find a way to unite all the ancients again. The world will have hope! We all need to work on rebuilding human and Dragonoid relationships. To open up the future of this island. We will need to bring Torlei back home as soon as possible." Vahaton finishes with a light of determination in his eyes. Vahaton pauses but turns his head to the side. His eyes gaze curiously out as he hears a drop sound.
A red piece of fruit falls upon the ground. Vahaton and the young boy turn around quickly and stare at it.
So that's where Torlei is… Charo can feel his heart racing at the thought. His beloved mentor is nearby and there's a chance they can see each other again. The young boy runs as fast as his heart and his legs can take him. He dashes past Vahaton.
Charo only stops to catch his breath when he's completely out of the cave. I'll go to where you are...The young blond vows.
The brief moment of silence is quickly interrupted by a loud. "AHHHH Yummy Apples Tama!" And a plump egg-shaped dragon comes flying down towards the younger boy. The small dragon comes swooping in and grasps for an apple. Shortly after the dragon, Charo notices a familiar face approaching.
Charo smiles. He shakes his head as he notices the wide-eyed swirly gaze of the little dragon."Hey! Tamazo and Ace." Charo greets them both with a smile and a wave.
Ace nods towards the younger boy but then looks up to berate the small dragon. Tamazo had already plucked an apple from the younger boy's basket. Ace's eyes are like daggers as they look up. Ace lectures his small companion. "Hey! Charo worked hard getting those apples. It's rude to just eat them, Tamazo!"
"But Ace they're so good-Tama!" Tamazo tells the other as though it's the best excuse. His tiny mouth is full of food. Ace sighed fondly and tilted his head to the side. "Idiot.."
Charo bowed his head shyly. His eyes seemed to be glimmering with a torn emotion. "It's okay. I wasn't going to eat them all anyway." Charo assured the two. His friend hadn't missed the way the young boy's eyes met the ground. The soft green orbs shivered and Ace frowned for a bit. Before another word could be uttered Charo looked back up and plastered a smile on his lips.
Ace looked skeptically over his friend but remained quiet. His eyes quiver a bit as he tilts his head to the side. "Charo…" He says, just knowing something was off there.
"It's fine!" Charo rushed out. He smiled brightly and held the basket of fruit towards Ace. "Tamazo looks hungry anyway," Charo explains. Ace grasps for the basket and watches his friend tentatively.
"Is everything okay?" Ace asks with hesitance. The Auburn teen gently raises his hand up towards his cheek. His index finger scratched his cheek. Sheepishly, Ace glances away. "Ah, when I've been down, and with all that happened with Lance…" Ace stopped briefly and turned his glance back to Charo. His lips brightened into a smile. The look in Ace's blue eyes was almost sparkling and the emotion was clear. "Well, I mean...through all of that, you've all been right by my side helping me. So I'm happy to return the favor." He finished up quickly.
"Thank you, but there's nothing to worry about," Charo assures, and he bows his head. "I was just getting some fresh air and thought I'd see how Vahaton and Eldora are doing..." Well, that wasn't a complete lie. Charo placed his hand on his cheek, "It certainly seems something good happened to you with the way you've been smiling today. I'm really glad to see that." The blond adds on sincerely, but he's thankful for the distraction.
Ace's cheeks flutter with a soft rosy pink hue. "Ah-th-that's Charo-I mean...I'm just acting like I usually do," he attempted to defend himself. Yet, it seemed his lips couldn't articulate his thoughts quickly enough. Before his lips could part again to excuse himself, Tamazo came bumping into his shoulder.
Tamazo gave Ace a knowing look. With a mouth full of fruit Tamazo still squeaked out. "Oh, Ace spent a lot of time with Lance-tama! We got home really late too-even though Tama was hungry! Can you believe it? Those two kept getting really close, as though they were glued together and then they kept-"
"Tamazo!" Ace yelped out and grasped for the dragon. He frowned. He pinched the tiny dragon's cheeks tightly and then proceeded to flick him on the forehead. "That's enough of that…" Ace's tone seemed to be almost pleading, and his cheeks looked redder.
Charo covered his mouth and stifled his laughter. He composed himself, "I'm glad to hear you were able to meet up again. Is Lance feeling any better?"
"Ah, I think so. He looked a lot better than after...our battle. He said he was going back to rest but…" Ace crossed his arms over his chest and huffed. "Yet, that guy doesn't know when to stop pushing himself. But he said he'd be alright…" Ace digressed. His blue eyes held a rather faraway look, but he seemed to shake it off.
"I'm glad to hear that," Charo emphasized with a brightened smile on his lips. The two talked for quite a while. After assuring that he was alright. Ace left Charo to his own devices. The blond waved goodbye to the two of them, ensuring he would catch up.
As the sky turned dark, the end of the day was signaled. The three moons shined brightly in the sky. Charo glanced up at
The young blond looked up towards the sky. His lips quivered, as he glanced silently towards the twinkling stars. A glowing light reflected in his green eyes, and quickly formed a look of determination. Does anyone ever say? "To do this. I'll go beyond even the moon and stars" …but perhaps that's just what I'll need to do!
"Master Torlei," Charo calls out softly, watching as the water rushes like a frame between the three moons. Is that what I need to do to bring you home to Libriya?
Maybe with his dear mentor back, Charo could clearly see the drops again. I'll go beyond...whatever it takes to bring you back to Libriya. To restore our hometown! Charo vows and there isn't a doubt left in his mind.
Ace had returned back to the city and met up with his friends. However, many hours past and Charo hadn't young blond hadn't responded to messages either.
With worry on Ace's mind, he informed his friends to return to the cave behind the waterfall "Charo" Ace called out for the other. He had brought Garnet and Tiger with him.
"Hey, CHAROOOO" Tiger roared out loudly. He placed his curved hands on either side of his mouth, like forming a megaphone. "Where are ya, buddy?"
"Charo!" Garnet too calls out. They walk all along the path where Ace had claimed to see the young boy. The trio searched all around the waterfall, but to their dismay, they couldn't find him.
Vahaton slowly stumbles out from the cave. "It seems you're all doing well," He smiles and scans over the group, "Ah, but where is Charo?"
"That's…" Ace begins hesitantly. His eyes glance down sadly. "I haven't been able to find him," Ace explains and his lips turn to a frown.
A young brunet dragon caller steps out of the cave. His brows are creased when he approaches Vahaton. "Vahaton! This is urgent It seems someone has made it in, and taken the dragon without permission."
"You don't think...Charo?" Garnet voiced aloud.
Tiger's eyes widen at the insinuation, "You think he took that monster out on a ride? Why?"
Vahaton looks concerned. His lips curve down. "That doesn't sound like him…"
"Perhaps he had heard yesterday's story," The young dragon caller guesses.
"What do you mean?" Ace turns towards the unfamiliar face.
Vahaton then proceeds. "Well, the thing is…"
"Eh? So he did this in order to help Master Torlei?" Ace asks.
"All by himself?" Garnet gasped out.
"We should go chase after him." Ace says and looks towards Tamazo. The small dragon turns towards his partner and nods.
Within the dungeon, of the large castle, Klein trudged through the hallway. He held a rather wicked grin on his face as he came across the cells. A bleach blonde ancient with green and yellow attire caught his eyes. "It's how things were meant to be Torlei. You are...to fall before me" Klein says in a rather cold and distant tone. The wicked smile turns into a smirk, yet seems forced on his face.
"Klein," Torlei turns over from his bed and faces the maddened Dragonoid. "You must know by now! Dominion is wrong! Any organization that cares so little for its fallen members is doomed to fall." Torlei proclaims. His winces and holds a hand up to his mouth. His eyes shiver as he begins to cough into his hand.
"You would say that," Klein shakes his head, and with one final look back leaves through the hallway.
As Klein leaves, another guard comes by. His hair is long and dark, while his body his very muscular. There's something in his eyes that seems to lack sympathy, something seeming menacing.
He escorts a young brunet, named Haseru, pushing with a cart full of food. The brunet seems nothing like the dominions. He holds a gentle light in his magenta eyes. His attire consists of a white, traditional Japanese style chef uniform. A long black apron drapes down from his waist towards his matching shoes.
"Are you likely to eat this?" The young man asks with a smile and seems to hold hope within him.
Torlei shakes his head to the question.
The young man smiles and leans in closer to the blond. He speaks as though telling as secret, "Goodness, I thought I was in trouble on the way over here. I know it's not easy, but you do need to eat. Here, at least try this soup," Haseru insists with a stern gaze.
The young brunette kneels down and takes out a steaming silver bowl. "You'll be feeling better in no time. I was asked to bring you something delicious to give you back your energy. So I really outdid myself," There's a sparkle of pride within his eyes.
He hands the bowl over to Torlei's. The blond nods his head and grasps it in his gloved hands.
"I'll make plenty of soup that will prevent you from putting any further strain on your body. So please," The young chef smiles, "Even just a single bite is fine"
Torlei grasps a spoon from the chef. He takes a hesitant scoop of the soup and brings it to his lips. He seems surprised at how delicious it has tasted. He continues to eat and the chef smiles.
He leans in close to the bleach blond and softly says. "I know it will be hard. But please do your best. Your work will surely be rewarded" He finishes saying.
Torlei stops and looks surprised. His eyes blink rapidly before softly returning to their usual calm state. The chef nods and smiles at Torlei.
"Haseru!" A deep voice from the menacing guard, commands him back. The young chef gives the blond one last smile before leaving.
With one last gust of wind, forming behind the mighty dragon's wings, it comes in for a landing. Hopping off of the dragon is a young dragon caller. Charo smiles at the dragon and pets the side of its nose. The young blonde is cloaked in a long grey coat, over his clothes. He reaches for the hood of his coat and drags it over his head.
Charo waits patiently behind a row of tall tree sand smiles back to his new green dragon companion. Of course, it was only for this mission. "Karuizaiwa. Dominion will notice you if you get any closer from here. So I will go alone from here. Thank you," Charo professes sincerely. He nods and looks up towards the grassy green dragon.
The petite blond rushes through the forest and towards the castle. I'll bring you back to Libriya! Master Torlei!
Charo's eyes are reflecting the stars above. He holds to his resolve this while rushing through the forest. Charo hides behind an outer wall of the so-called castle. Here it is. Master Torlei, I can't imagine the trauma you've felt being captured. But I swear, I'll save you! Charo looks towards the main entrance. The entrance is swimming with dominion guards, but determination doesn't dull within the boy's light eyes.
"Somehow, I'll have to get in there…" Charo mutters to himself. The young blond looks forward and quickly ducks his head down upon hearing one of the guards moving. Charo's stomach gurgles and his cheeks turn pink. "That's right before I could even eat, I left on this mission! I went out first thing in the morning"
Realizing his oversight, the young blond heads back towards town. Still cloaked by his dark grey jacket, Charo enters into a nearby cafe. Refueling was certainly necessary for this type of mission!
A smile beams onto Charo's lips as he takes bite after bite of this colorful soup. He sits right towards the front of the isolated diner and relishes in the taste. "This is so delicious, and yet, there's something nostalgic about it."
There was only a brief moment of silence for Charo. He could only hear a faint chuckling from the restaurant's chef, at the praise. Charo savored the familiar taste of his food before hearing the front doors slamming open. Charo covered his face with the outer hem of his hood. The two cloaked dominion members entered the restaurant.
Upon hearing the intrusion, the smiling brunet chef comes out from behind the restaurant's curtains. Haseru greets them warmly, "Welcome!" He greets the two. Yet, neither seem to pay him any mind. They turn towards Charo, both the male and female dominion members look curiously at the unexpected customer.
"Just who are you?" A long-haired female asks with rather darkened and curious eyes. There's a feeling within that tells her to pry further.
Charo tugs the hood of his cloak over his eyes. So dominion really is everywhere! "I will just leave this here," Charo says meekly and pulls out three silver coins. He smiles softly towards the chef and bows his head.
"We asked-Who are you?" Another masculine voice spats out angrily. The dominion lackey grasps at the top of Charo's hood roughly. This emits a slight squeak from the young boy.
"You will show me now!" The man demands coldly. Charo holds onto his hooded cloak, but it is to no avail. His blond head and face are revealed to the dragonoids.
"Wait a moment...you are-" The female dominion member pauses. Her eyes blink slowly before settling onto their target! The vision of the wanted poster comes to mind! "Charo from Libriya!" She exclaims.
At the mention of his now infamous name, Charo bolts from the restaurant. He rushes through the streets and hears a familiar voice. The same young chef from inside the cafe. "Over here," Haseru calls out and opens a lid to an unused barrel. "Hurry!" He insists on this.
Charo looks behind him and all around. It doesn't seem he'll get a better chance than this to evade his pursuers. The young boy gives in and rushes down the alleyway.
The two dominion members follow shortly after. They look around and towards the alley behind the cafe. "Hey, you!" The female Dragonoid looks towards Haseru who is standing outside his restaurant. She calls out to the brunet chef. "You've seen that kid anywhere?"
The brunet shrugs leaning against the barrel, "I haven't caught sight of him since he bolted out of there. I totally lost sight of the little guy. I'll keep an eye out," He assures in a carefree tone.
The Dragonoid woman smiles and continues on looking. Upon watching the two members leave, the brunette hops off of the barrel. "All right, you should be fine now"
Charo peeks out carefully from underneath the lid of the barrel. Safe, for now!
"Thank you so much," Charo professed towards the other. He bowed head and looks up towards the brunet. The restaurant has been closed up for the night, and they two are conversing amicably. Charo sits upon one of the bar stools and smiles at the young brunet across from him. He then looks up towards the other with blinking green eyes. "But...why did you help me?"
The young brunet smiles fondly down at the young blond.
"If Dominion finds out about this then you will not be able to stay safe," Charo says sadly. His eyebrows scrunch up with worry, and his lips curve down.
"I don't care about that." The brunet waves this off. "I'm doing this for Libriya," Haseru adds cheerfully with a rather secretive wink. "The one who asked if you had come to this town was Torlei. He seemed to know you'd arrive here eventually, and asked every single day, without fail." The young chef tells Charo with a beaming grin. A soft tint of pink covers Charo's features and he feels a bit of elation at that. The brunet continues, "He requested that I'd do my best to save you if you were in trouble. I felt a certain warmth from hearing that, and you could say my heart was moved to help out"
Charo's green eyes began to shimmer, and he can't stop the elated smile from forming. The young blond nearly bounces out from his seat at the mention. "Master Torlei! He went to that extent! And for you to go this far to save me too!"
The young chef crossed his arms and smiled. Haseru begins to tell his tale. "While I was practicing cooking in my early days.. I went all around Dragoza island on a quest. I looked for the materials that the customers will be pleased with. Did you know? I hope that in Libriya they have the very best produce and crops," He smiles at the admission, memory still fresh in his head.
Charo's mouth widens as he hears of the story. His mind fondly recalls reading some of the town's history with Torlei. He could envision those large dusty books detailing about the history of their hometown and the fresh produce the city had been known for.
"The residents of Libriya protect the forest!" The brunet breaks through the blond's thoughts. He holds out one index finger on his right hand. "The forests protect the residents" And repeats the gesture on his left. The brunet smiles and brings his hands together in a soft clap. He extends his arms out wide in the air, "And I feel it's because of the love and care in your town that the ingredients taste so pure and delicious! I believe you can make the best ingredients from Lirbriya's crops. In fact, The food used at the stores are used from Libriya."
Charo's eyes light up at this explanation. "I'm starting to understand. I was confused before but no wonder your food has a nostalgic taste. Now I understand. "
Haseru nods and adds "Torlei and Libriya need to reunite again. Libriya will finally be at peace then... and I will definitely return to that city again,"
Charo's cheeks light up a happy pink color as he smiles brightly. "Yes!" We'll definitely bring you back and restore our city. Master Torlei…
Meanwhile, with a mind filled with worry, a worried teen flies upon a dragon. Ace flies swiftly upon the red carrier dragon. There was no sign of his friend just yet, and his eyes were brimming with apprehension.
"Hey look at that, Tama!" The egg dragon calls out. Ace turns his head to see the aforementioned green dragon departing through the skies. It fit the description Vahaton had mentioned, yet there was no sight of Charo.
Upon seeing a guarded silver castle, Ace brushes his hand against the dragon's cheek, prompting it to land. The group does land by the castle and behind the trees. From a distance, Ace overhears the dominions chattering amongst each other. There doesn't seem to be a gap in sight to sneak in through the entrance.
Ace tries to lean in closer, hoping to overhear and get some sort of sign.
"AHHHH CHOOO Tama!", Tamazo sneezes obscenely loud and alerts the members of dominion. Ace scolds the other and "Be quiet. Why did you have to do that?" Ace clenches his hand tightly and looks up towards the small dragon who is covering his mouth.
"Tamazo had to sneeze Tama." The white dragon turns to the side and crosses his arms.
"You gotta be kidding," Ace groans slides the palm of his hand down his cheeks. He manages to grasp Tamazo's arm and get a head start. The dominions chase after the two of them and only lose them farther off into the forest. Ace breathes a sigh of relief as they finally can rest.
It had been a few hours since Haseru and Charo devised their infiltration. The cheerful brunet began walking cheerfully right through the front entrance. He cheerfully greeted the guard, "Just finished tonight's dinner. I gotta say I outdid myself!"
Several Dominion guards were standing by the door. They took little suspicion in the extra large soup pot their chef was wheeling out. One of the more good-natured members even added, "He's always so good-natured!"
Haseru breathes a sigh of relief as he makes it through the front doors. He keeps up his calm and joyful facade as he walked through the hallway of cells. He finally stops towards Torlei's cell. "Good evening!" He greets one of the cell's guard, "I brought tonight's dinner, it's sure to give him some energy!" The brunet greets happily and the guard nods. The dominion guard begins unlocking the cell door, "Ah, I was wondering when you would arrive," he notes.
Haseru carefully wheels over the precious 'meal' he had prepared. He takes notice of Torlei, who is still curled up on his bed. "Good evening,"Haseru greets the ancient with a smile bursting from his lips. The plan was in action.
"Haseru?" Torlei sits up and greets the young man in confusion. It seemed a bit late for this kind of meetup. He fully sat up and noticed a certain glimmer within those magenta eyes.
"Apparently, you seem to have gotten a little better" The brunet adds with a soft smile. "It's good to see you're up now,"
The blond looks him over a bit skeptical but smiles nonetheless. "It's thanks to your cooking, thank you again," Torlei ads with a soft expression in his eyes. He seemed to have one ally down here.
"Ah. But I have a feeling with this, you will surely become more energetic than before," Haseru alludes with a bright grin. He lightly taps onto the top of the pot. He taps again on the lid, once more than twice. Torlei's eyes widen and blink in confusion at the apparent signal.
Carefully, the lid begins to open. Torlei's eyes widen at the action. Nothing could have prepared him to see a certain the young blond peeking out from beneath the silver lid. Charo placed his hands on the underside of the lid and peaked his head out. A light lit within his eyes as he noticed his beloved mentor.
"Char-" Torlei exclaims without thinking. His arms flail around behind him as though trying to gain the ability to fly. The blond nearly falls back onto his bed. Torlei quickly covers his mouth with both of his gloved hands.
Charo smiles at his beloved mentor and places a finger on his lips.
"What are you doing here?" The Ancient of wood asks in a hushed tone. His eyes change from surprised to that of pure concern.
"I'm here to rescue you, Master Torlei," Charo whispers with another beaming grin upon his lips. It had been way too long!
"A rescue?" Torlei repeats in a hushed voice, he looks behind himself and notices all the guards. Heck, there's one standing not even five feet away from them. Tolei whispers out, "How?"
Charo reached his arms up and lifts the lid off of the pot. The young brunet turns his back towards the guard to block his view. He grasps the lid from Charo. The young blond begins stepping out from the pot and reaching his arms around the rim of the confined space.
The chef smiles cheerfully as he softly says, "Please leave it to us." Charo fully adjusts himself and lifts his leg over from the confined space, fully freeing himself.
"I'll be waiting at the promised place," The brunet notes to the young blond, leaving Torlei entirely baffled.
"Right!" Charo agrees and beams with a light in his soft green eyes.
Upon seeing the main guard waiting at the corner, Charo takes this as a chance to move. The young blond walks cheerfully and happily from the cell. His arms are swinging at his side. "Thanks for all your hard work!" Charo calls out in a joyful tone.
The guard who had his own eyes resting seems to go along with it for a moment before- shouting "Hey!" The guard opened his eyes fully. His mind snaps to attention and he begins to realize that boy was the one rebelling against Dominion!
Charo sticks out his tongue playfully and quickly rushes around the corner and down the hallway. He manages to gain some distance from his pursuers.
"You're Charo!" The guard calls out and rushes after the young caller. The guard runs past several others waiting by occupied cells, and warns them, "Charo is here!" A loud alarm in the prison lets out.
Charo runs on ahead and makes his way past those first few doors. He catches his breath, "It seems it went well."
From back at the cell, the brunet watches the younger boy carefully. So far so good with this plan. His magenta eyes peer out into the hallway and find the guards are out to pursue their new target.
"Please just wait… a minute will Charo?" Torlei pauses. He extends his arms towards the young brunet and his eyes shiver with concern.
"It'll be fine," the brunet assures. "Let's believe in him!" The brunet rushes over to Torlei and begins helping him into his hiding place. The bleach blond climbs into and ducks down in the large pot. The brunet closes the lid and begins to wheel the ancient out from there. "Let's go!"
In the harrowing chase from his captors, Charo continues to run swiftly throughout the hallways. He is in pursuit by two of the dominion guards, and from the sounds of the footsteps, they seem to be seeking reinforcements.
Charo makes a valiant effort, however, his own worries continue to grow. There are now dozens of dominion guards chasing after him and they're coming in from both sides. The young blond soon finds himself surrounded. He comes to a halt in the middle of the hallway. Charo feels his back clash against a doorway, and his pursuers close in.
Well, there seems to be no choice. "Cross on!" Charo exclaims loudly. He grasps the precious whistle D-gear. His form is overtaken by a bright light, and he can feel the energy from his precious soul armor. Charo's head is adorned with adorable cat-like ears and a royal headdress. His hands are cloaked with feline-like claws. Charo prepares to battle and raises his arms up ahead of himself.
However, it is to his and everyone's surprise, that before the battle commences-
"TAMAAAAA~" A shrill cry erupts the silence of the room.
"Charo I've come to save you!" Tamazo appears from the top corner of the room. His plump egg-shaped body is struggling to move out of the wall's vent system. Slowly but surely the dragon begins popping out from the vent.
"Tamazo?" Charo asks and blinks softly, "Then...That means Ace is here?" One of the guards says with apprehension. Tamazo frees himself and swiftly leads the guards from the hallway. In hopes of finding Ace, the guards chase the small dragon down the hall.
Charo breathes a sigh of relief. His hand fumbles over the doorknob behind him, and to his surprise, it opens. He enters in through the door and finds Klein sitting towards the back of the room.
"Ah, well if it isn't Charo?" The low voice calls out to him cooly. Klein is smiling deviously and had his hands laced together on top of his desk.
"Klein!" Charo gasps out in shock. His green eyes widen considerably.
"It seems you have just been caught right now," Klein says with a great deal of mirth in his brightly colored eyes. "Am I Right?
Charo glances back towards the door, but he can hear footsteps from outside. It seems there isn't a safer option. Charo turns back towards Klein and his eyes are shaking. He turns back towards Klein.
"So now let's talk a bit here," Klein begins and waves the young bo over.
Charo looks back tentatively, unwilling to fully relax. He's still fully cloaked in his bastet soul armor.
"Well, Thanks to you guys and what happened back in Libriya," Klein begins. His lips purse tightly together and his eyes darken. "I was stunned. I lost my team at Dominion. I will never be able to regain my position now,"
Charo's eyebrows scrunch lowly and there's a bit of darkness that shadows over his green orbs. So that's what he's concerned about? After Torlei's mercy too. Charo grits his teeth. His entire face darkens as he turns towards Klein.
"Is that all you care for? To remain in a high rank within Dominion?" Charo accuses the other with an angered tone. He clenched his hands at his side, while his eyes quivered with anger. To think Torlei had still wished to protect this man! "I didn't let you run off like that because I wanted to. Even if you gain a higher power, you'll always be behind him, you know. So long as you stay in Dominion, you'll never come close to Master Torlei!." Charo fumed towards the other. His eyes lit up with a bright spark as he continued to profess. "Master Torlei truly loves Dragoza.! He truly loves Libriya! It's because of that sincere love he has such a power!"
"Ah?" Klein injects, he drums his finger on the table before him. "Love? You should know, I still do feel this for Libriya, and for Dragoza island! That's why…" He folds his hands together and rests his head between them. A part of his face begins to crack, hearing such earnestly. His voice comes out softly. "But, it's those within Dominion who say what I can do..."
"It's useless to stay with them. No matter what they say you can't trust them" Charo takes a step closer. "With Jest in power-there is no future or hope for our world. But if we stand against him we can still have a future! Don't you think so?" Charo boldly challenges and holds his hands out towards his sides.
"Klein!" A new voice erupts from outside the door. The Dominions begin knocking on and opening the door. "We've heard Torlei has escaped! Along with Haseru. We should go to Master Jest now!" One reports. Several eyes widen as they notice the young dragon caller in the room.
Klein breathes out softly and makes his decision. He stands up from his desk and walks over towards the young blond. He roughly grasps Charo's arm and turns towards the Dominions. He speaks as calmly and clearly as possible "It's true they have gone free. Master Jest had dismissed them. He sees no further use in them anymore."
"Still, we should look after them" The dark-haired dominion member pleads with him.
"No," Klein shakes his head. "It is as I said. If you are worried. I'll be the one to go to Master Jest and validate this." Klein assures the other. He drags Charo with him. The two walk
Rushing through a few narrow turns and hallways, Klein finally stops. Another of Klein's wall has broken down. "It's a time of a changing tide," Klein says with a softness in his voice.
Charo looks up towards him quizzically. The young blond blinks several times, he waits for the other to continue.
"It's a lesson I've stabbed this into my heart. One I should have learned long ago, " Jest recalls reflecting on the day Charo helped to save him. "Haseru has been running around lately, going to distract the dominions isn't that right? Some plan to help Torlei escape, I bet? I had noticed some time ago, it seems my act has fooled the others, but it'll soon end for me here..."
"Klein...what are you saying?" Charo looks up a bit conflicted. His eyes begin to shake and shimmer over with emotion.
"You're planning to meet with your precious Torlei at the end of this mission right? Can you take me to him? I want to say goodbye" Klein professes.
Charo's eyes begin to form with tears at the declaration. Charo smiles and nods. "Leave it to me!" Charo adds in and leads the two out.
Outside of the castle, Torlei and the young brunet are waiting beyond the cliff's edge. Haseru catches sight of Charo first. "You did well!" He calls out cheerfully. There's a glimmer of hope and cheer within his magenta eyes.
"Klein?" Torlei calls out in surprise. His eyes focus in on the white-blond Dragonoid walking behind Charo.
"He helped me escape," Charo explains quickly. He rushes up towards Torlei with a smile beaming over his lips.
Both Torlei and Haseru look surprised and turned towards one another. They looked to Charo for confirmation and the young blond nodded.
Klein turned towards Torlei and ducked his head down "Torlei. I am truly sorry. I had been wrong about Dominion and so... I wanted Charo to bring me here so you can hear me say this. Make sure you go on to live a good life," Klein apologizes sincerely. His eyes meet the ancient's with a sincere gaze. Seeming to have made his peace he turns away and reluctantly begins to walk away.
"Klein," Torlei calls after him and stops the other in his tracks. "There is a place those of Libriya are all planning to meet up. Would you like to go home together?" Torlei asks hopefully. A light softens within Torlei's eyes. "Back home to Libriya," He invites with earnestly. This leaves Charo and the brunet quite speechless. "I will start over with our town. We all will return to the peaceful town it used to be because I believe in our people"
Klein fully turns back, there's an unkept swirl of emotion shimmering within his light eyes. He glances towards Haseru and Charo. Everyone seems to hold the same accepting and hopeful smile. Klein nods as a response far too choked up for words. He grasps for Torlei's extended hands. They shake hands and silently agree to build a new future.
Charo smiles happily at the scene. His soon emits a bit of a yelp as he feels a small white dragon nearly tumbling into his back. "You're okay Tamazo! Thank goodness!" Charo says this and hugs the dragon.
"Charo!" Another familiar voice follows after this. Charo turns around and notices his dear friend rushing up the hill.
"Ace!" Charo waves his friend over! Ace beams upon seeing his friend. He soon notices Torlei and gives a polite bow! "Master Torlei! It's good to see you're safe" Ace says and then turns to Charo. His blue eyes are shimmering with pure pride and excitement! Hi "Amazing! That's simply amazing Charo! You saved Master Torlei"
Charo blushes at the sudden praise and wrings his hands into his clothing. "Well, I did have some help," Charo admits sheepishly.
"And that about sums up how it happens. Master Torlei is back safe and sound, and we've gained allies through Haseru and Klein!" Charo proceeds to tell his tale, now safe and sound back towards the ancient's cave. Tiger, Ace, Garnet and Vahaton all look towards one another and back towards Charo.
"It seems like you had quite the adventure," Tiger proceeds to tell the other.
"Still, I wish you left a note or something," Garnet berates the other. The smile on her lips lets the younger know it's only due to worry.
"Well, it seems everything turned out just fine," Vahaton says after hearing the news.
Charo nods happily and declares "Definitely! Together with everyone in Lirbirya! I will work hard to restore my hometown!"
Eldora finally opens her eyes and sits up rather quickly. From the cave beneath the waterfall, she awakens to relieved and friendly faces.
Tiger is the first to call out to her, from the river's edge. His arms are practically shaking with joy as he calls, "Master Eldora! So you've awakened now?"
"Thank goodness," Ace exclaims and fully catches his breath. It seems they rushed over at the mere sound of her awakening.
Eldora attempts to smile below her wincing eyes. Her hand delicately cradles her throbbing head, "I was...back there…" Images flood to the surface of that grueling fight with Jest. It seems...alright?
By now Ace, Garnet, Charo, and Tiger have made their way towards her 'bedside'. Ace presses his palms over his knees and smiles at her. "You were sleeping a long time," He informs her with a smile that speaks only of relief.
Garnet folds her hands together, in a prayer fashion as she says, "Thank goodness you are okay."
"I'm so relieved," Charo says in his meek tone.
Eldora smiles at the kindness and tender words of concern from the young dragon callers. Her eyes widen to a certain realization. She hadn't been the sole victim there was also-"Vahaton! Is he…?" She pauses.
Ace assures her quickly, "Vahaton was hurt but he's recovering alright now." His eyes begin to shimmer for a moment as his voice softens, "But well Lance is…" Ace paused for a moment. Eldora could sense the apprehension swelling within those gentle blue eyes, much like a strong high tide overcoming the usual calming seas.
"Well...he is still resting now," Ace explains, he dodges any knowing glances from his friends. Thankfully, they're far more concerned about the Ancient of Fire than for his own love life.
"I see," Eldora begins and hangs her head slowly. Her eyes gaze towards the floor with apprehension. "I'm sure by now Geyser too had been corrupted by Dominion…" She begins to sit up further. Garnet, Ace, and Charo all hold their hands down flat. Their hands are suspended, in the air, right above Eldora's shoulders, as though wishing her to lay back down.
"You still need your rest now," Charo says through worry gleamed eyes.
"You've only just awoken," Garnet explains with equal waves of concern.
Tiger seems to be the only one to not 'read the room'. "Just leave it to me!" Tiger boldly proclaims in his deeper-"manly"- voice he's grown so fond of. "I'll be the one to handle things in Geyser! My hometown will be protected by none other than Eldora's number one student Tiger!" He self-proclaims.
Every one of the redhead's friends forms a rather deadpan look over their features.
"What?" Tiger asks.
Eldora had turned towards the side, "I do worry about that head of yours...taking so lightly of this mission,"
Tiger visibly shakes at harshly put words. "But I can do this, for my hometown, Master Eldora!" Tiger assures the other and holds his arms tightly to his chest. His eyes have nearly filled the brim with tears. Tiger did have a flair for the dramatics.
"It's probably due to your outbursts that she's worried," Garnet huffed out and places her hands on her sides. "These kinds of missions do need a certain sense of stealth,"
"Ah, that is true…" Ace reluctantly agrees with the blonde girl.
"All though I can see you're very passionate about this," Charo adds with a bit of a hopeful tone. Although a part of him seems unsure.
"See? That's exactly what I'm talking about! There's no one else who's as passionate about Geyser and that's why I'm the guy to do this!" Tiger attempts to rival his friend's disputes.
Eldora closed her eyes to rest. A smile laced on her lips. There seemed to be no helping this.
With some assurance that both Ace and Garnet would assist their boisterous friend, the group splits up. Charo stays back with Master Eldora and promises to guard her.
Garnet, Ace, and Tiger a run into Aget. To everyone's dismay, the city of Geyser has come into contact with Dominion. The fraudulent fighter Aget, guided the group throughout the infamous organization's building to find themselves at a loss. Dominion had moved from Geyser and according to their report: Dominion had infiltrated the Ancient's hide-out. They had been led away by Agen!
Charo fought bravely to defend against the various dominions but soon found himself overwhelmed. Fortunately, Ace, Tiger, and Garnet had made it back just in the nick of time. They fought off Dominion and found Kroell-a sadistic blond Dragonoid to be behind this scheme. Even Aget returned and strayed from Dominion's side after hearing Jest had no care for him and whether he lived or died. With Aget's own redemption, he joined forces to fight against Dominion.
After, the impactful day, Ace finally finds himself with some time to breathe. Geyser would be fine, and they were finally at peace.
Ace brought out his cell phone, from his pocket and dialed a familiar number. The receiver picked up on the second ring.
"Hello?"
"Hey, Grandma…" Ace begins, he can feel his heart beating in his chest as he mentions, "I heard that Lance was recovering...and I know you played a part in helping him with his injuries. So I was wondering," His words come out in a long ramble, "If you or Lance..or well if both of you would consider it a good time for me to come visit."
Ace nearly groaned hearing the soft laughter on the other end of the phone line. His grandmother Angine assured him, "It would be a perfect time," And the two soon ended their phone call.
There was a quiet breeze rustling through soft strands of auburn hair. Ace could feel the shiver run through him, but he ended up here. He always ended up here. Always looking towards the sky, the stars, and the moons above, it seemed.
Its time likes these when the image of his father surfaces towards his mind. He can sometimes feel that through his summoning of Brave Cross Dragon as well. What would his father say to him? What would he tell him to do to ease his worries over Lance and their future? Although his heart still seemed to beat in warm synchronization with Lance; he craved for more. Seeing Lance, hearing his voice and knowing he was safe and resting, were feeling insatiable.
Perhaps it's just a mix of teenage hormones? Yet, it felt far stronger than any emotion. Ace would choose a lifetime not being held or touched; if it meant Lance was safe and happy. Yet, he hoped to never make such a choice and wanted everything with the person who held his heart so tightly.
Ace shivered again and rubbed his arms feverishly with his hands. There was something odd about this scene perhaps it was... the silence. Ace's blue eyes glanced back behind him. He nearly let out a laugh, but quickly sheltered it behind his hand.
His small dragon companion had fallen asleep upon the ground below. Tamazo's rather plump belly extended to the sky before collapsing back to earth. Still, with a partially devoured apple in hand Tamazo was softly snoring away. It went to show how worn out the little guy had been. Falling asleep before finishing his sixth after dinner snack? How was this still Tamazo? Ace gently knelt onto his knees. He scooped up the small dragon within his arms.
"We aren't going in yet? Tamaaa," Tamazo deliriously mumbled up. This followed up with a teardrop shape of drool forming at his mouth.
Ace blinked wildly and nearly lost his hold on the dragon. Thankfully a loud snore followed by that statement. "Honestly," Ace expressed. He fully took the dragon's weight into his arms and moved from his knees to his feet.
The light rustle of wind seemed to be pushing Ace towards his destination. The night sky seemed to soothe his worries, as the stars illuminated in his blue eyes. "I want to see you but..."Ace mulled over his decision. The teen took a hesitant step forward, careful not to make a sound.
It would be disturbing him. With that thought, Ace turned on his heel. He almost headed back the path to his home, needing some time before boarding his Leviathan again.
Still, there was the chance...that the other wanted to see him as well. After all, his grandmother had said it was a perfect time to visit. Maybe, even while exhausted, it could maybe help Lance. Lance had returned those feelings and planned to meet with him. Ace turned back around again, careful not to disturb the dragon in his arms.
But could it be too soon? Lance needed his rest, he could just call and come again in the morning. Ace turned back towards the door of the building in front of him. He hesitantly held his arm out before him and then another thought intruded.
What if Lance would only be pushing himself during this visit!? Didn't that make everything counterproductive?
Ace wanted to rummage his hands through his hair but soon noticed the rustling in his arms. Ace had cradled the dragon much like a baby, and fortunately, Tamazo turned closer to his chest, not awakening at all. The young dragon nuzzled against him. Ace's eyes brimmed with a lightness in them. It was rare to see Tamazo this exhausted, even while sleeping.
Ace finally. shook his head and walked towards the tall door ahead. To his surprise, the door swung open and his grandmother smiled, quite bemused at the sight of her adorable grandson.
"Ah, Ace. What are you doing? It must be getting cold out there...You and Tamazo should come in," She waved the young boy over. Ace hurriedly crossed over the threshold and heard the door close quietly behind him. Her eyes gazed towards the small dragon bundle in Ace's arms.
"He sure is tuckered out," Angine noted with a tender smile. "Lance is resting upstairs. He says he isn't in need of sleep just yet but…" She leaned in closer to her grandson and whispered into his ear the secret, "Between the two of us, he's been obstinate about staying up until you arrived."
"Ah...so Lance is…" Ace fumbled out some words and flushed. He bowed his head. "I'm sorry it took so long to get here."
Angine smiled and held her hand up to her mouth. She beamed at her adorable grandson, "Now, now. There's no need for that. You should go see him," Angine advised and placed a tender hand behind her grandson's back. She brought Ace into a warm hug. Ace's blue eyes blinked.
"Grandma?"
"Just answer me one question," Angine released her hold over the young boy and beamed at him.
"Okay…?" Ace said while feeling his grandma's hand almost pushing him up the stairs all the same.
"With Lance, are you happy?" Angine asked all the while keeping her eyes on her endearing grandson.
Ace hadn't needed to dwell on this question. His lips curved into a brilliant beaming smile. He answered softly and bashfully. "Yeah. I'm definitely...at my happiest" Ace nervously pressed his index finger to his cheek. He couldn't hide the flush, above his beaming smile, if he tried to.
Angine shook her head softly and guided Ace up the staircase. "That's all I need to hear," She replied earnestly, and then followed up with. "He'll be in the last room at the end of the hallway,"
Ace nodded, "Thank you," He proceeded to move up the stairs, not entirely giving in to the embarrassing urge to run towards that very place. Still, he couldn't help but pick up the pace when he was out of eyesight.
Angine smiled fondly at the scene. Her sweet grandson had gone from a boy to a fine young man, so quickly. A bittersweet pride rose within her at seeing her family so happy.
"You're free to rest Devi," Lance's soothing voice called out to the young dragon. They were both resting in an infirmary of sorts, one that was away from Dominion's watchful eye. Lance was resting among one of the beds and his cape and hat were placed upon an adjacent bed. There were several medical charts around the room, glass jars with medicine, and various equipment.
The room had several twin sized beds with soft sky blue bed sheets. Lance felt a sense of familiarity looking into the color, and his rival almost immediately came to mind. Devi even had his own miniature bed that was placed right beside Lance. The small dragon shook his head and crossed his arms over his stomach. "I want to watch Master Lance until he gets here. Devi."
Lance's lips twitched at the sweet display of affection. He reached out his pale hand over to Devi and brushed it over the top of the dragon's head. "Thank you," He added softly. The two shared a rather tender moment.
"Lance," A soft voice beckoned for him, followed by a few knocks on the outside.
"Come on in, Devi." The small dragon greeted and then later mumbled out, "Took long enough...Devi."
Ace opened the door as carefully as possible, balancing the sleeping Tamazo in his arms. His blue eyes met Lance's gaze almost immediately upon entrance. A feeling of silent devotion came to Ace's mind. He couldn't help but smile brightly in the other's presence.
"Ace." Lance simply breathed out the other's name. Ace felt himself grow weak. He held onto the door frame for a bit of balance before swiftly and softly closing the door.
Devi flew over towards Ace and observed the mostly silent (aside from snores) Tamazo. "He fell asleep already, Devi?"
Ace nodded, "We had some pretty eventful few days…" The auburn haired teen glanced over at Lance. Lance's gaze held him there, and Ace assured, "But we're all okay. Just a bit tired,"
Lance nodded to him and seemed to ease up a bit. His eyes still followed Ace, as the younger male placed Tamazo on one of the unoccupied beds.
Devi nodded with approval at Ace. "Keeping that egghead far away from my bed is a good move, Devi." The dragon then fluttered away from Ace and returned back to his bed. Lance chuckled at his partner's reaction.
Lance smiled softly towards Ace and briefly waved him over. If there was enough space in the room to run, Ace would have done just that. He grasped for a chair in one of the room's corners and brought it intimately close to Lance's bed. Ace took a seat beside Lance.
The younger male proudly took Lance's hand in his own. Ace pressed his lips to the top of Lance's hand. A gesture Lance had done before. He made sure to meet the older boy's eyes as he did just this. Yellow eyes widened as it met with a soft blue. Ace felt a joyous smirk form on his lips, at the soft pink staining Lance's cheeks. It definitely caught Lance off guard. Even if it lasted just a few seconds, Ace cherished it.
Ace softly lowered Lance's hand back onto the bed. Blue eyes swirled with a glimmer of light, watching Lance's fingers lace softly with his own. The younger male squeezed his hand tightly. "Are you feeling any better?" Ace asked with concern in his hooded eyes.
Lance nodded softly. His eyes followed the way Ace's lips curled up at the admission. "You're here," Lance answered softly. His own lips seemed to want to mimic that delirious smile his rival sported. So they did just that.
"I am…" Ace paused for a moment and held Lance's hand tightly. "Can I trust you've been resting is the real question?" Ace asked wryly. He raised his eyebrow and his lips twitched from side to side. Lance didn't quite answer. Only a laugh, Ace's mind had dubbed as 'attractive', came through. Ace followed up with, "You're quite stubborn you know? So I do need to make sure." His tone came out playfully, ensuring the other male he wasn't upset.
"I could say the same about you," Lance replied. The smile on his pale lips and soft tone broke through. He may as well have professed his love, again, with the way Ace was looking at him.
"I hadn't been pushing myself though. Charo was seriously amazing! He rescued Master Torlei and brought back not only him but Klein as well! Tamazo only had to step in a bit as a decoy. Tiger, Garnet, and Aget did help quite a bit with everything in Geyser! So I well haven't been alone…It was still a little tiring but well,"Ace trailed off. Lance had been patiently listening to his every word. It seems neither of their eyes could stray too far away from each other. "I feel so much better now," Ace spoke so earnestly; it caused a wave of light to shift through Lance's eyes.
"You're taking care of yourself right?" Ace asked softly. Lance squeezed the young boy's hand tightly. He nodded and trailed his hand up from Ace's hand to his arm. Lance's hand brushed and caressed its way all the way up the younger boy's arm. Ace felt himself shiver under the touch and needy gaze behind yellow eyes. They seemed practically golden as they shivered with a soft light and pulled Ace in deeper. The latter couldn't bring himself to look away. He was swept away. Lance's hand grasped for Ace's arm and brought him forward. Ace nearly yelped out but his lips were quickly captured by his beloved rival. Ace let his eyelids close.
Lance's kiss was incredibly gentle. His lips caressed and moved rhythmically. It was still so soft and closed, but entirely perfect. This tender side of Lance was entirely endearing. Ace gasped at the action of Lance's tongue darting out and softly licking his lip. It was only for a second, but it sent shivers throughout the remainder of the closed mouth kiss. Ace kissed Lance back with a vengeance. Every bit of emotion and passion Lance had was met back equally by Ace.
The younger male He could hear Lance's heartbeat from this distance. It was certainly rivaling his own in intensity. Their lips parted, and the two found themselves entranced in each other. They couldn't keep their eyes away from each other.
Ace had to catch his breath, which seemed to b usual for him. Lance certainly challenged him in every way possible. Lance too seemed a bit out of breath. Yet, his eyes seemed rather tired. Yellow eyes were blinking softly. The white-blond teen's breathing was taking a bit longer to calm down. "Lance," Ace whispered his name and laced their hands together once more. "Are you okay? Should I get you something or I can ask-"
Ace's rambling was halted by the soft hand squeezing him tightly. Lance shook his head. His eyes held Ace entirely still. The latter couldn't help but to lean down and steal another kiss from Lance. "I wish there was something more I could do," Ace admitted a bit sheepishly. His spare hand was nervously playing with his auburn-brown bangs.
"Ace," Lance beckoned for the other. His hand released itself from Ace's grasp, but not before squeezing the other's hand once more. Lance's hand curled over Ace's wrist. He pulled the younger boy forward.
"Laa-aaance!" Ace's voice squeaked out harshly in surprised. There was no warning before he was pulled from his chair and over onto Lance's chest. Lance smiled at the reaction. He leaned forward from the bed and placed his arms on Ace's hips, now fully guided the younger teen onto the small bed with him.
Ace's cheeks had gone completely red, and he could feel all of Lance underneath him. Lance's lips turned into a smirk. He reached a hand under Ace's chin and sealed their lips together. "Will you stay with me?" Lance asked of Ace; his smirk melted into beaming smile. Ace looked down at Lance and cautiously asked, "Are you okay like this? I mean your injuries…Plus you won't have as much room and-" Lance shook his head. He pressed a finger over Ace's now trembling lips. The finger was soon replaced by his lips.
"I'll sleep better with you near," Lance assured the other, with an all-consuming gaze. Ace swallowed, quite visibly and rolled off of Lance. He moved just enough to curl up against Lance.
"Alright," Ace whispered softly Warmth spread through the two of them as their chests flushed together. Their heartbeats seemed to form their own symphony. Lance's arms moved to circle his waist and bring them even closer. Ace's eyes shivered and he could swear he felt tears swell at the gentle hold. Lance's eyes gazed down at him with concern.
"I love you, Lance." Ace whispered softly. His breath tickled over Lance's lips. Lance's pupils dilated looking at his lover. He looked entirely entranced. Ace recalled not having said those three words altogether, just yet. Now, this moment seemed all the more perfect. Ace kissed Lance and nuzzled his head against Lance's chest. He wrapped his arms around the older male's shoulders.
Ace should have known better. He couldn't fight back sleep, not when he was held so protectively, and so surrounded by such a tender warmth. Lance's soothing heartbeat was like a symphony for Ace's ears only. They guided him into a deep slumber.
"I love you too, Ace. Good night," Lance murmured softly into the soft auburn hair on Ace's head. With the one most dear in his arms, he easily succumbed to sleep. They both knew just who they would see, both during and after their dreams.
END
A/N: I hope you enjoyed this story update! I have a feeling the series will take an emotional turn again soon! So here's some fluff in the meantime. Also, I've been listening to the Nightcore version of Symphony- Emma Heester's cover. It inspired me to write a lot of this. The song reminds me of Ace/Lance and also of a Yugioh pairing called Keyshipping (seriously the Zexal series and that ship are amazing) but anyways. Thank you all for reading this chapter! :)