Author's note: ok this is a three part side story, these three parts will show Sapphire's life in Valla, Hoshido, and Nohr. This is how Sapphire's life began, so I started with her life in Valla. Next will be Hoshido, and then Nohr. They will not be in order. What I mean is, that I will not post part 2 Hoshido next. Next will be chapter 8, and I hope nobody will be mad at me for how it goes because, yes, it will be different, quite different. Also, this story is narrated by Sapphire, so all the italics are here thought. ENJOY!

Once upon a Child

Part 1

Valla

To be honest...I know a lot I shouldn't know.

Many things that will get me in trouble. Dangerous trouble. For as long as I can remember, that's always been my problem. Like, being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Or, finding out things I'm not supposed to. And being born here in this world, when someone doesn't want me here.

Being born a Visionary is like being born a Mutant in the X-Men series. You're shunned from everyone else. People think you're a freak of nature. They think you're beneath them. Sometimes, they want your powers for their personal games. So they torture you, by killing the ones who you hold dear, or kidnap you, and torture you yourself.

People who go through that sort of torture of pain. Would go insane with revenge, or hold serious grudges that really don't end well. They would turn against the people who they once trusted. Who they once called family. WHO they once fought beside. Some people would go insane with hatred and would do unthinkable things. But for me...that is the one thing I can't understand. It's funny, I understand so many things, and if I don't, my powers help me figure it out. They show me the past, present, and future. I can live some else's life. I can see things that no one else can. Not to mention, I can turn into a dragon. Not a large one, just the size of Draco in the movie Dragonheart.

I was sent here for a reason. By who and why? I don't know. All I know is that I won't be able to go home until my job here is done.

And this is where my story begins.

The first thing I saw when I entered this foreign world, was a woman with long jet black hair holding me in her arms. I found out I was a new born baby.

WHAT! ARE YOU KIDDING ME! Not again! Wait...I'm too young to speak in a full sentence? I too young to KNOW a full sentence?!

WHAT THE HECKS GOING ON!

I found out immediately, that even though I was a newly born, I still had all my thoughts, memories, and knowledge that I had from my world. So, it's wasn't all bad. But don't get me wrong, starting my WHOLE life all over again wasn't going to be fun, but, at least I still had my knowledge.

As I stared at this woman (whom I'm guessing is my mother in this world) she was smiling.

"You have such beautiful blue eyes, my dear." My mother said. "Look, honey, our daughter has the most beautiful blue eyes I have ever seen."

I look at who she was talking to. It was a man in a white hooded cloak. I'm guessing this man's my father. I couldn't see his face, but I saw two strands of his hair. His hair was blue.

Huh? That's interesting?! I've never seen that type of hair color before?! Hmmm, maybe he dyed it.

The lady turned to the man, wanting him to experience what she was feeling right now. "Hold her," she encouraged, holding me out.

The man took me with trembling hands. There I cooed happily as I stared up at my father, fascinated by this strange new face. His mouth opened into a soft, silent oh, and his eyes held a look akin to awe. It was a moment I would have captured in a photo if I could.

"Isn't she beautiful?" she squealed.

"She is," He said. "Just like her mother." And he kissed her forehead.

"You know, I wonder who she gets her ears from,—I've always been curious about that, why they're pointed, it must be a quirk of your family."

Wait what now? I HAVE POINTED EARS! ARE YOU KIDDING ME! What am I, an elf?

"You know surprisingly, she doesn't take after you OR me. She has blue eyes, brown hair, pointed ears, and I think she a bit paler." The lady said.

Nobody likes a critic lady...So, I guess I don't take after these parents either. I was kinda hoping I would, since I looking nothing like my other ones back home.

"You know your right Mikoto, that's quite surprising. Since she doesn't take after us, I would have guessed she would have taken after your sister."

Mi-Miko-Mikoto? That's an interesting name. It sounds like a Chinese or Japanese name. Well, that would explain the long black hair. Mikoto, that's actually a nice name. I like it, I think that name suits her perfectly. But, I wonder what's my father's name?

"Yeah, I was hoping she would have taken after you Anankos. But I guess not. Beside is doesn't matter anyway." She held me and kissed my forehead. "I still love our little girl."

An-An-kos. Anan-kos. Anankos. There! I think I said it right. Now THATS an interesting name. I just hope I can pronounce it properly.

Then the doors slammed opened.

"MIKOTO! ARE YOU ALRIGHT!"

I was startled, and my parents jumped. A women with a royal feather and a black garb with shoulder length turquoise hair came in, with a man who also had turquoise hair, wore a regal crown and robes, carrying a small child who was wearing a small white dress who ALSO, had turquoise hair. As I looked closer at the new people who came in, I noticed that the had gold eyes. It was really cool but kinda creepy.

"Don't worry Arete I'm fine. And look, I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl." Mikoto cheered as she was held me up for Arete to see.

"Oooooh, she soooo cute!" Arete cooed. "Look Azura, you have a playmate, or should I say 'cousin'.

Cousin? So this Are-te must be Mi-ko-to's sister, so she must be my auntie, and this A-zur-a must be her daughter, so she's my cousin.

Arete gave me back to Mikoto and picked up Azura to show Azura her new cousin. Azura blinked at me curiously, and I blinked curiously back in response.

"Uh?" Azura tilted her head in confusion.

"Uh?" I tilted my head in confusion.

"Oh, there so cute!" Azura's father (I'm guessing) said. "I'm sure they're going to be great friends."

"I'm sure your right Cornelius. There around the same age. Azura's only two years older." Arete replied tickling Azura's neck. Azura laughed.

So I'm guessing 'Cornelius' is Azura's father. At least THAT name I can pronounce.

My thoughts were interrupted by Mikoto tickling me. I let out a little giggle.

"Your baby is awfully quite Mikoto, I hope there's nothing wrong," Arete said with concern in her voice while she was holding Azura.

"Your right Arete. She is awfully quite." Mikoto looked at me like she was going to cry.

In order to ease their worrying, I laughed and giggled. When I did that, I saw their frowns disappear. My mom told me I was a quite baby, I didn't cry like I was supposed to, even my laughter was soft. It was no surprise that I haven't changed.

"Oh! I just realized, we haven't given her a name yet!" Mikoto just realized. I let out a giggle.

It's that the first thing you do 'mom' hehehe

"You're right! What should we name her?!" Anankos replied.

"How about 'Aqua'," Cornelius said.

Seriously...I am not going to be named after another name water.

"How about 'Shenmei'?"

Dude, I can't even pronounce that...

"I know! How about 'Sapphire'? Her name can match the color of her eyes!" Mikoto mentioned.

"Sapphire...?"

"Sapphire?"

"Sapphire!"

How many times do they have to say it? Anyway, I like that name.

I laughed and giggle.

"Look! I think she likes it!" Arete said.

"If she likes it, then Sapphire it is." Anankos proclaimed.

Cornelius walked out of the room with Arete holding Azura in her arms. Mikoto got up and held me in her arms and followed them out with Anankos following close behind. From what I saw we were walking through a grand hall with marble columns and walls. Massive paintings were on the walls. I felt like I was in the Capitol building in Washington D.C.

We came on to a large balcony. When I looked down, I saw tons of people cheering for some reason.

"People of Valla! I have wonderful news! Lady Mikoto has given birth to a beautiful baby girl!" Cornelius shouted.

So this is where I am? Valla?

The people of Valla cheered over the news.

Mikoto held me tight. "My little Sapphire, I will never let you go."

Everyone cheered over my birth. There was a big banquet for my birth. I was put in a small crib in the banquet hall, while everyone congratulated Mikoto and Anankos. I heard many conversations and congratulations about my birth and my new family.

Cornelius and Arete were the King and Queen of Valla and their daughter Azura was the princess. Mikoto-my mother was Arete's sister and she was apart of Valla's council. I didn't hear much about my father Anankos. All I heard was that some people were unsure about him and me because I was his child. But those whispers were hush immediately by Cornelius.

Everyone was really curious about my ears. I'd be lying if I wasn't curious about them too. But Mikoto just pushed those questions aside with a wave of her hand. Azura was really curious about me. She stayed by my side the whole time. She stayed so long that Arete put her in the crib with me. I was completely mesmerized by Azura's beautiful blue hair and bright golden eyes.

As the party trailed on, Azura slowly drifted off to sleep. I tried to sleep, but I was too curious to see so many interesting things. Like the interesting outfits and different color hairs.

When the party was over, Mikoto and Arete expected me and Azura to be asleep. Azura was, but I wasn't. I was to excited. My mother back home always told me it was very difficult for me to take naps. I was too full of energy. Hehehe, she was right.

Arete took Azura to bed and Mikoto took me too. Anankos followed close behind us.

As I looked at my new mother and father, many questions came to my mind. What is my new family like? Will they like me? Will I like them? Where am I? How did I get here? Will I ever get back home?

As these questions crossed my mind, I slowly drifted off to sleep in Mikoto's-my new mother's, arms. Thinking of what was to come in this new world-and my new life.

The sunlight peeking through my curtains woke me up. I sat up straight and stretch out my arms and yawned. I scratched my head as I listened to birds chirping. I kicked off my covers and went to the window. I opened the curtains, sunlight filled my room.

My room was very big, not surprising since I live in a large castle. My bed was in the middle of the other side of the room wall. I had a two bay windows and a balcony. The room was bright blue and I had my drawings and stuffed animals all over the floor. I giggled at the sight of that.

I still leave my things on the floor. I really got to fix that habit.

It's officially been five years since I've come to this 'new world'. I met many new people and seen many new things. My life here is far different than back home. There were maids and butlers who waited on my hand and foot. I had a very large room and the castle was huge! I always kept getting lost. Breakfast was already made for us, all fancy and nice. I used to cold and hot cereal, pancakes and waffles, scrambled eggs and some French toast, you know the usual. But here I get some Soufflés and Quiches, and some other stuff. Like some Chinese and Japanese food, I can't pronounce. For lunch, I get Roast Beef with Yorkshire Pudding,Beef Wellington, Panfried Pheasant or Duck Breast with Gooseberry Sauce, Poached Salmon with Dill Cream Sauce and some other stuff, and some other Chinese and Japanese food I can't pronounce. (What was ironic, was I couldn't eat any meat because it wasn't cooked probably. So they just gave me salad.)

For Dessert, there's, Trifle-Layers of cake, whipped cream, fresh summer berries (blackberries, strawberries, blueberries & raspberries. Plus, I used to making my own food, so it was hard for me to get used to having it made for me. Same thing for my room, when I left to start my day, maids and butlers came in my room to make up my bed and clean my room.

*sigh* I forgot what it was like being a child. Playing with stuffed animals and toys galore.

I stared out my window, and looking at the beautiful scenery that surrounded this enormous castle. The castle which we lived in was called Gyges...interesting name. I stared at the village down below. Everyone was so happy and cheerful, and the land was lush and green. Every time I look at this magnificent scenery, I find myself speechless. Never in all my life have I see such a beautiful, lush, green land covered with packed pastures, full forests and fields, and plenty of food for the people.

I'm five years old now, thinking about that, reminds me when I was in kindergarten. I didn't go to school, I had private tutors and teachers. I never thought I would miss school! I guess I just missed socializing with other kids. Back home, I loved my kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Cole, she was the best! I loved the field trips she took us own and the crafts we did.

*sigh* those were the good old days. You know, now that I think about it. They don't have grade, middle, or high school here. I mean they have a high level of teaching for kids who were older, like Azura. She was seven years old and she would be a second grader. She had a higher level of teachings then me. Not surprising since she's two years older. And if you ask me (and I don't mean to offend her) but she's a little too mature for her age if you ask me. So she's not that much fun to play with.

I can't wait to see have she'll act when she grows up...

Azura matured very quickly, me, well, I decided to take my time maturing. My maturity will come when I'm ready.

"Sapphire."

I heard Mikoto-my mother, calling me. *sigh* I guess it's time for my lessons to begin.

I changed out of my pajamas and put on a white shirt, and over that a navy blue dress with socks and black shoes, and ran to go take my lessons.

My lessons were over, and so was half the day. It was the middle of the afternoon, so I had the rest of the day to just go out and play.

Made I should go ask Azura if she wants to play?

So I went to go find Azura to see if she wants to play with me. I found her in the castle library.

"Hey, Aqua!"

Aqua was the nickname I gave her, don't know why it's just that nickname suits her-maybe because of her hair?

"Why hello there Sapphire, what can I help you with?"

Yep! She's waaaay to mature.

"Well, I was wondering if you wanted to go outside and play with me?"

"Sorry, I would love to, but I have some studying to do."

*sigh* "ok, I understand, have fun." Then I ran out of the library and left the castle far behind.

I loved to go outside and explore this new world. There were so many new things to see and do. I raced through the woods, running through the creeks and streams. Feeling the wind in my hair. It was wonderful!

"NEEEEEIGH!"

Huh?

"NEIGH NEIGH."

While I was running through the woods, I suddenly heard horses. I soon followed the sound of the horses 'neighing' and found myself in a pasture. But what was making that 'neighing' sound wasn't horses. It was a herd of Pegasi! When I saw my first Pegasus I nearly had a heart attack! And what's even more incredible, they even have Wyverns here too! It was incredible! I really wanted to ride one, but Mikoto said I was too young, but I could when I was older. That really got me excited!

As I was looking at some Pegasi eating some grass, I felt something nudge me from behind. I turned around, and to my surprise, it was a Pegasus. I patted its nose and gently stroked its neck. Then I looked down.

"Oh! So you're a girl. That's nice." I ran my fingers through her mane.

The Pegasus neighed and nudged me again.

Oh, I just can't take it anymore! I just have to ride you or fly you...

I knew how to ride a horse, I took riding lessons back home every summer. And, I learned how to ride bareback to. So this was a cinch.

I got up on the Pegasus, and I gently kicked the sides and the Pegasus gently trotted off. It was a really nice stroll through the woods.

"Now I wonder, how do I get her to fly?"

I clicked my tongue and gently kick her and then suddenly I was soaring above the clouds.

"WOO HOO! THIS IS INCREDIBLE! I LOVE IT!" I yelled. I always wanted to know what it was like, soaring above the clouds like a bird. This just couldn't get any better.

I held tight on the Pegasus's mane and just sat back and enjoyed the ride. I never wanted to forget this. Not now, not ever! Oh if only my mother could see me now!

I soared through the sky on this Pegasus for hours. When I finally got back down again, I had no idea on how late it was. I had better hurry back or everyone with worry. I petted the Pegasus on more time because I headed back to the castle. When I got back to castle Gyges, I was almost time for dinner. I was relieved that nobody had noticed my absence.

Mikoto was helping her sister Arete with Royal matters and Cornelius was tending to some problems that had recently come up. But I really didn't pay much attention to it.

I went to my room to spruce myself up for dinner. I traded my dirty clothes for a nice blue silk dress. When I finished changing a heard a knock on the door.

"Come in!"

The door opened and Mikoto came into my room. She was wearing a beautiful white silk and lace dress with golden hems, and a diamond necklace. I ran into her arms and kissed her cheek.

"Mommy you look beautiful."

Mikoto kiss my cheek and then my forehead. "So do you my little gem."

"I think your both very beautiful."

Mikoto and I turned around to see Anankos-my father, looking at us with a big smile on his face. Still wearing that white hooded cloak and me still not able to see his face.

"Come, Cornelius and Arete, and Azura are waiting for us," Anankos said.

"Ok, we're coming," Mikoto replied, and she picked me up and carried me to the dining hall, with Anankos close behind.

We all sat and ate together. Once again, Mikoto and Arete were talking to Anankos and Cornelius about some more problems that have recently come up. But Azura and I just brushed it off. SHE wanted to talk about me putting more focus on my studies.

"Aqua. I'm only five years old." I shrugged. "Studying isn't that much of a big deal yet. Besides, I rather be outside playing."

"That's all you want to do!" Azura scolded me. "Play play play! You need to focus more on your studies! And soon you and I will reach the age when you and I will learn how to fight."

Fight. Every time I heard that word it sent cold shivers up my spine. I had no interest in learning how to fight. None whatsoever. Whether it be hand-to-hand combat, or with weapons.

"What are you going to train in Aqua?" I asked.

Azura was silent for a moment. "Well, I plan to learn how to use a lance."

"Wow, well, I plan to be a singer and dancer, and also a painter on the side. Since I like to paint and stuff. Plus I want to travel the world while I'm singing and dancing. And meet many new people and see many new things." I smiled.

"Well, I also want to sing, but as Princess of this kingdom and future Queen I have responsibilities and duties that I must uphold." Azura calm put.

Azura and I had our conversations about what we're going to be when we grew up and our plans for the future. I told her that I would help her when she becomes Queen like my mother does with her mother.

When dinner was over we all went to our rooms. When I finally got to mine, I started to question about what Azura said. On how we were coming of age to learn how to fight. Mikoto knew how to fight, from what I knew she was the best archer in all of Valla, and she was a great spellcaster, and her sister Arete the Queen, was no pushover either, from what I heard she was a power sorceress, and Cornelius was very skilled at swordsmanship. Anankos, well I really didn't know if he fought. For what I heard we was a mystery to everyone.

As I thought about my family and the conversations I had at the dinner table, thoughts of what my future here would be. I smiled thinking that all would turn out well. As a smile came across my face, I slowly drifted off to sleep.

Screams of people dying flooded my ears. Never in all my life have I since so much bloodshed. The once lush green pastures were covered with bloody dead bodies. The village streets were covers with more bloody dead bodies of innocent men, women, and children.

How did things get so bad?

All the crimson blood was leaking out of the dead bodies and pouring into the streets. All I could smell was death. I almost puked.

I remember the day this all started. I was singing together with Azura out in the fields. Azura and I love singing together, it was really fun, and we sang in perfect harmony. Our mothers were sitting together listening to us singing. Our favorite song was "One's Thoughts." It was a really nice song. Our mothers taught it to us, and there was nothing I loved more than singing together with Azura, well, I really like it when Mikoto, Arete, Azura, and I sang together. Now THAT was a show were seeing.

Arete told me and Azura, that the song "One's Thoughts" has magic powers. And if we use it unwisely, there would be dire consequences. I wouldn't understand what she meant by that until later own in my life. Arete taught us how to use the song to sue's people's hearts. She also told us that no one knows who created the song and why. When Azura dance to the song, she sang slower and graceful while I danced faster and passionate. I sang much faster, with a different tempo, and a lower key version of the song.

When Arete sang the song, I thought it sounded like a cry for help. From who and why I don't know. But, oh I don't know, but I felt like I have some sort "bond" or "connection" with the song. Like somebody was crying out, crying out for help.

When Arete was done singing, she gave each of us a pendant. Azura's stone was a nice aqua color with a golden chain. My stone was a nice sapphire color with a silver chain. I adored it!

"Thank you, Auntie Arete! I love it!" I said while playing with it.

"Yes, thank you, mother. I will use it wisely." Azura bowed to her mother. "I hope YOU will learn to use your pendant and your powers, WISELY Sapphire."

I could feel Azura's icy cold glare pierce my soul when she said that. All I could was stick out my tongue and glared back at her. Hey, I was only five. What do you expect me to do? Punch her?! Hahaha.

When we left to go back to the castle, Azura was walking next to her mother proudly. I, on the other hand, was holding Mikoto's hand and playing with my pendant. I was absolutely fascinated by this pendant. Mikoto giggles as she saw me playing with it. Life here was perfect. I couldn't be happier. But my happiness would soon end.

As we were heading into the village. We heard the most horrible, bloodcurdling, inhuman roar ever. The people were in a state of panic when a fierce, enormous, really ugly dragon came and started attacking the village and the castle.

Arete, Azura, and Mikoto headed towards the castle to see what was going on. I accidentally got separated from them in all the hustle and bustle. The people were running and screaming and there were body parts flying all over creation! Not to mention, blood was being splattered all over the place.

The dragon was destroying Valla. He was burning the forests, destroying the valleys, pastures, fields, crops, EVERYTHING! As I looked closely at the dragon, I realized it was the weirdest one I've ever seen. It looked like it didn't have any skin, so you could see all the muscles and bones, it was really discussing. And the head was even worse! The head was not a normal head. It was a blue ball with a bunch of eyes on it and it was inside a mouth with a lot of sharp teeth!

I've never seen that type of dragon on the Internet...

It roared viciously, its roar silence all hope, death everywhere.

"SAPPHIRE!"

I heard Mikoto screaming my name.

"SAPPHIRE WHERE ARE YOU!"

"MOMMY I'M HERE! I'M HERE!"

I got push and shoved around. Trying to find Mikoto. She was screaming at the top of her lungs.

"SAPPHIRE MY CHILD WHERE ARE YOU?!"

"I'M COMING MOMMY! I'M COMING!"

I tried to find her, but it was no use. There were too many people running and screaming.

"MOMMY WHERE ARE YOU?!"

I couldn't see, find, or heard Mikoto anymore. Fear entered my mind.

"What if she was killed? What if I'll never see her again?!"

"MOMMY!"

Suddenly I was lifted into caring arms. I looked up. It was my father, Anankos.

"Daddy!" I cheered and wrapped my arms around his neck.

"I'm so glad your safe my child," Anankos whispered. "Don't worry, I won't let him kill you..."

Anankos ran through the crowds holding me tightly in his arms. As Anankos was running through the crowds, Mikoto joined us and we ran inside the castle.

Anankos gave me to Mikoto and she held me tight, with tears pouring out from her eyes.

"Oh, Sapphire! *sniff sob* I was so worried. *sniff sniff* I thought I was going to lose you. *sob sob.*"

I was crying too. *sniff sniff* oh mommy I missed you! *sob* but don't worry, daddy saved me!"

"Yes, *sniff* yes he did." Mikoto then hugged Anankos and whispered. "I thought I would lose you too..."

Anankos gently pushed her away. "Come we don't have that much time. We much find Cornelius, Arete, and Azura."

Mikoto nodded and picked me up. "I'm not losing you again."

Then we ran through the hall of this great castle that was now falling apart. I looked outside through the windows as we were running through the halls. There were more dead bodies now, than before. More destruction. More bloodshed. More death...I saw the dragon destroy more of Valla. The place that I have called home for the past five years, was now falling apart before my very eyes.

We finally find Cornelius and his family. They were all right, except for a few scraps and bruises. Arete was holding onto Azura for dear life.

"Oh, thank heaven you're all safe!" Arete said. "I was so worried when Sapphire got separated from us and you went to go look for her!"

"I know, and I'm glad your family in safe as well," Mikoto replied.

"Ok I'm sorry we have to break up this happy reunion, but the castle's kinda falling apart here." Cornelius pointed out.

They all nodded and we all fled the castle. I watched the dragon soar above Gyges and burn the village AND the castle to the ground. They didn't stop to look back, they just kept on running, as our once beautiful home, was being burned to the ground. I heard the dragon roar on last time before I couldn't see our burned home anymore.

It's task, was now complete.

We took shelter in a nearby cave. Mikoto and Arete were weeping for deaths of their people. We were the only people left in Valla. Everyone else...was dead. Cornelius comforted the weeping Mikoto and Arete, while Anankos was sitting next to me and Azura, as silent as a mouse. When nightfall came, Azura was fast asleep, but I couldn't. I had the screams and pictures of the people dying in my head. I heard Anankos tell Cornelius, Arete, and Mikoto, that he had something important to tell them. So they went further into the cave, probably because they didn't want me and Azura to hear what they were saying.

But, knowing me, my curiosity got the better of me. So, I followed them. And what I heard from that conversation, my life would never be the same again.

I heard Anankos tell them, that the dragon who attacked Valla, was his true form. And they were not safe in Valla anymore. His dragon self lost his love for humanity and sought to destroy them. And that he got his memories when I was born, but he didn't have the heart to leave his wife and daughter.

Cornelius and the others were shocked. As was I, but they hushed up and let Anankos continue.

He said that the song was about me. And he told them that he was the dragon's heart. I listened more intensely as he went on.

Anankos continued I tell them that they were no longer safe in Valla and that they must retreat to the other world, while he stays here.

Other world? What's that?

Cornelius and Arete understood, but Mikoto didn't want to leave Anankos behind. Anankos hugged Mikoto and gave her a very passionate kiss. I blushed when I saw it. Then I leaned in closer to hear what he was saying.

"Mikoto, please do not tell Sapphire who her father is." Anankos pleaded.

"What why?!" Mikoto replied.

Yeah, why?

"Because I do not what her to be burden with the sins that I have committed," Anankos said. "Please Mikoto, please, do not tell Sapphire that I am her father."

Mikoto was silent for a moment. As was I. I don't blame him for what he had done, nor do I hate him. Even though he was responsible for the death of our people and the destruction of our homeland. I could never hate my father.

"Alright Anankos, I will not tell Sapphire who her father is." Mikoto finally said.

My heart sank. I felt bad that my father didn't want me to know about him. But I did understand his reasons. And for that, I thanked him. I was thankful that I had a loving father. And I've never doubted his love for me.

Suddenly we heard a loud roar. I ran back to Azura was woke up.

"Sapphire what was that?" Azura asked.

"I don't know, but I have an idea," I replied.

Azura and I ran outside and sure as I knew it, we saw the dragon that attacked our home, heading towards us.

Anankos and the others came out right behind us.

"Oh gods, he's here!" Arete screamed.

"Quickly Mikoto, Arete! Get Azura and Sapphire and run!" Cornelius ordered. "Anankos and I with stalled him!"

"What! No, I will not leave you behind!" Arete pleaded.

"That is an order from your King and husband!" Cornelius hissed. "NOW GO!"

Arete to Azura in her arms and ran through the woods. Mikoto took me in her arms and followed after her. As I looked over her shoulder, I saw Cornelius draw his sword and Anankos someone some fire magic. They stuck the dragon, but with no success. The last thing I saw, was the dragon's fire breath, burn Cornelius and my father Anankos into ashes. Then, my vision suddenly turned blank, and that was the last time I ever saw my father and my uncle.

"I love you father...goodbye..."

When my vision finally returned, I found us in some unfamiliar terrain. There was no sunlight, just dark clouds and thunder and lightning, surprisingly no rain. The trees were dead, no leaves, no fruits, no flowers, no nothing. Just a dead skeleton of the tree. We found ourselves on a really old wooden plank bridge. I felt really uncomfortable being on that bridge because it didn't look safe. And what's worse, under the bridge was a deep canyon.

Is that where we came from?

"Sapphire, are you all right?" Mikoto asked.

I decided to play dumb. "Uh, where are we? What's going on?"

Mikoto let out a sigh of relief, and she turned to face Arete who was holding a sleeping Azura.

She's sleeping?! Not surprising...the world could be ending and she would just sleep...and it just did.

"Arete are you and Azura alright?" Mikoto asked.

"Yes, what about you and Sapphire?" Arete replied.

"We're fine. But, what do we do now? Our home is destroyed. Our husbands are dead. And if we return, that dragon will destroy us." Mikoto stated while she was stroking my back.

Arete was silent, she was also stroking her child. "I think we should go our separate ways..."

"What! Why?"

"Because! We will be harder to find us if we spilt up! If we stay together, we'll be an easier target! I know it's hard, but we have to think of our children!"

At this time Azura woke up and Arete patted her back, and she put her down gently.

Mikoto looked at me, then she put me down gently. "Ok, I understand, Sapphire and I will go East."

"And Azura and I will go West."

We all shared loving hugs and kisses. Thinking to ourselves that we might never be tighter again like this.

When we were done, with our emotional goodbyes. Arete took Azura's little hand, and they headed towards that West. Mikoto and I-holding each others hand watched as Arete and Azura walked off into the distance until they completely disappeared from our sight.

Then Mikoto and I turned around, still holding each other's hand, and headed East. I tightened my grip on my mother's hand as we walked off. Heading towards a new land, with new people and new things. I looked back, hope to see Arete and Azura running towards us. But I did not. I only saw darkness. Nothing, but darkness.

Goodbye, Aunty Arete and Azura...I hold we'll all be together someday.

It has officially been four months since Valla was destroyed, and we lost Cornelius and Anankos, and also, Arete and Azura and Mikoto and I went our separate ways.

We have no idea what had befallen Arete and Azura. All we can do is just hope that there alright, and nothing bad has happen to them. Mikoto and I have lived a happy life now. Sure we're sad about what has happened, but we're ok. We live in a nice cozy cottage in a kingdom calling Hoshido and we live outside a city called Shira-Shira-Sa-Shirasagi. From what I've seen so far, the lifestyle, custom, culture, clothing, house style, and food are just like Japan and China combined. I mean they have kimonos, yukatas, dojo's, plus samurai, katanas, naginatas, ect. ect. ect. Oh! They also have the same food too, like sushi, fried octopus, and all that other stuff.

Mikoto always went into Shirasagi to get some clothes and food for us. She thought I was too young to go, so I would stay here and clean up.

As I was dusting the floor, I heard laughter outside. I recognized my mother's laughter, but the other one I did not. It was a deep laughter, so probably she was with a man.

Wait? My mother...with a man...I got to check this out!

I ran out the door to see what was going on! I followed the sound of the laughter. I ended up at a lake, a nice lake too. In the distance, I saw my mother talking to a man in spiky, white armor, with a navy blue long coat thrown over it. Two swords hung at his sides, the handles and sheaths made of finely wrought material. His face was all angles—even his thin black mustache and goatee were sharp. My eyes flickered up to the wild mane of hair, and the crown-like headdress he was wearing.

I've seen plenty of Samurai Jack, Tom Cruise The Last Samurai, Assassin, and many Chinese and Japanese movies and tv shows to know a full fledged samurai when I see one. From what I saw, they were getting pretty friendly with each other. REAL friendly.

I'll leave what they're doing to your imagination.

When they were done, they said their goodbye and Mikoto was headed back to the cottage. I rushed back to the cottage before Mikoto came back. I made it just in time. Mikoto opened the door to see me dusting the floor.

"Oh hi mommy, your back early today." I smiled.

"Well, um yes, Sapphire." Mikoto shyly replied, pulling her hair back behind her ear.

I wonder is she realizes that her face is reeeeeally red. Hahaha.

"So mom, did you enjoy your day in the city today?" I asked, with a smirk on my face. But Mikoto didn't notice. She avoided my curious gaze, with a turn of her head and a giggle.

"How. She must really like that guy. I wonder who he is? Well, I think that it's good that Mikoto found somebody. I mean, there's only so much love and warm I could give her. But I still would love to meet this guy."

It's been several weeks since I saw that man with the hedgehog hair. From some reason, I don't know why, but every time I thought about him. He reminded of a buffalo. Don't know why.

As the days went on Mikoto came home later and later. I guessed that she was seeing that man again. Not surprised. *sigh* But I wish she would come home soon that I can make dinner. I tapped my fingers on the counter walking for Mikoto to come through the door. As I continue to tap my fingers my fingers, Mikoto slammed open the door.

"SAPPHIRE I HAVE WONDERFUL NEWS!" Mikoto yelled.

"WHOA!" Mikoto startled me, which cause me to fall off the chair. "Mommy what is it?! What's wrong?!"

"Sapphire listen, we're invited to live in the castle in Shirasagi." Mikoto explained.

"We're going to live where? In Shirawho?" My mind was completely blown. My mother just barged in and just said were living in the castle!

"Quickly pack your things." She ordered and she ran into her room to pack her things.

Then I went into my room to pack. When we were done, we went outside, and I found myself staring at the very same man who I saw talking to Mikoto several weeks before. How does he get his hair like that I wonder?

Mikoto put her hand on my shoulder. "Sapphire, this is Sumergai, Emperor Sumergai."

My eyes popped open. Emperor! EMPEROR! Are you telling me my mom was making out with the Emperor! Wow just wow...

Emperor Sumergai knelt down on one knee and smile. "Hi Sapphire, I'm Sumergai. I'm glad I'm finally able to meet you."

I didn't say anything, but I nodded in response. If my mom liked him, then I guess he's ok. But I still had my doubts. Then he stood up and looked at Mikoto, I noticed he was a head taller than her.

"Come, my retainers are waiting. We shall be in Shirasagi soon." Sumergai said as he walked off with Mikoto and I right behind him.

My life was being turned upside down...again. First Gyges in Valla and now Shirasagi in Hoshido. But, I hope that maybe Mikoto might find someone. I know that loosing Anankos, the destruction of Valla, and Arete and Azura going West was hard on her. It was hard on my too. I tried the best I could to comfort her. But she really needed someone, and I hope that this Sumergai person would be able to fill that empty whole in Mikoto's heart. I know I never could...Mikoto needs someone or someONES better than me. I was no good for her, I just had to find a way back home. And when I do leave, I just hope she will find happiness in Shirasagi.

I stop to look at the cottage once more. Then I looked at Mikoto following Sumergai. They were smiling and laughing together. That was a scene I wish I could take a picture of. He's good for her. I was starting to think I should just head the other way, but my thought we interrupted by Mikoto's voice.

"Sapphire come one. Let's go home." Mikoto's voice was warm and soft, and her smile was sweet and gently.

"Ok, mommy I'm coming." I ran toward them. I had no idea how long I would be in this world. I had no idea on how long I would be Mikoto's daughter. But, I will make the best of it. That I know. And I will still make Mikoto happy the best to my abilities.

I ran and ran and ran towards the direction of Shirasagi. I heard Mikoto telling me to slow down. But I couldn't, I was too excited to finally see Shirasagi! I finally made it to the top of the hill. I was sweating and panting, but it was worth it. I could finally see Shirasagi. It looked just like a Chinese and Japanese lifestyle! It was incredible! As I kept looking at this grand city, my chest started to hurt. It felt like my heart was going to fall out of my chest. Then my head started to spin. Now I really didn't feel too good.

Dang it...I guess I really should have slowed down huh.

As my vision was turning black, I heard Mikoto scream my name. When I turned around I saw Mikoto and Sumergai running towards me. My heart was beating so hard against my chest. My head felt like it was going to split in two any moment now. As my vision began to grow dark, I tripped and started to roll down the hill. As I tumbled down the hill, I could feel my body hit pebbles, sticks, and loose ground. Then I hit my head against a rock, and finally, my vision went black.

Not before I heard Mikoto scream my name one more time...and seeing my crimson blood stain the rock.