The next day I introduced my new mages to the group and they set to work training in the field with the others under Razel's rapier watch. They followed his commands like gospel. The senior mages like Von, Neo, Rae and Brie, Mei Ya and Pien Fang, were exempted from the boot camp drills that left many a magician too spent to stand.
"It gets easier I promise!" I pathetically cheered to them.
They did not hear me. They were too busy trying to avoid Razel's savage demonstrations and follow his sharp corrections.
"You know, standing back here as a spectator, all I need is a large soda and a corn dog," I said in a flat comedic tone.
"A what?" Von asked.
"Nothing. Human food. Alright come on, we have our own training to get to." I clapped my hands and headed for the Big Top tent. On our way there my legs got "attacked" by my two cat Spellcasters, Yohji my Majispecter Neko-mata, and Bastet my Magicat. I love cats so I gushed over them like a doting parent. I picked up Bastet as Yohji trotted beside me.
"Hey Neo, how's Mana doing?" I hung back to talk to him all the while snuggling Bastet's soft taupe coat.
"Much better. Doctor Klaus says she will be recovered in no time. However, she might not make it to the Midsummer festivities." Neo said of the Cyborg Doctor.
"Oh no, that's a shame about the festival. But I'm glad that she is recovering. I have good news for her." I couldn't wait to tell her about Mahad.
However, Mahad would have to wait. Preparations for the Midsummer Festival in the Spellcaster lands were underway and by the next day, Razel and Torunka received word that their presence was greatly anticipated. As per decorum, Elites had to convene first to open the festivities.
"Officially, the Festival cannot begin until we host in the Opening Ceremony. We join our wands and staffs and from them we illuminate the grounds and send magnificent fireworks into the sky." Torunka explained.
I pictured something akin to China's 2008 Olympic Opening Ceremonies and bounced with excitement. "I bet it's amazing."
"It is."
In dribs and drabs my mages returned home to celebrate. Rai still ploughed away with his studies for the Grand Spellbook Tower School of Magic entrance exams right up until the day before the Midsummer Festival. Von was such a wonderful tutor to Rai and I could see the young mage grow in confidence of his abilities. Eventually he abandoned his books and readied for the festivities. There was a part of me that knew this action was performed with more joy than not. I, meanwhile, was ushered into many dress fittings for the event. Razel insisted that I dress the part of his Master at the Festival and so ordered for dress patterns to be brought to me. I was pinned, draped, measured, and sized until my eyes bled. Despite recovering from her injuries, Mana was just able to bring me bolts of silks and satins, chiffons, and fine cotton, cloth of gold and silver, muslin and other fine fabrics. She was still too unwell to attend the festival. All of the times I tried to tell her that I met her Master Mahad, I was intercepted. I was frustrated by that but I was too distracted by other matters to return to it.
Razel oversaw my tailors, instructing them on where to tighten and where to shorten. I bickered back telling him not to order my dress! I wanted to do it. He snapped back that I had no taste, no refinement, that I needed constant supervision, etc. Finally we both settled on a lovely dress that I actually designed myself. It consisted of a high necked "jacket" piece that attached discreetly to the back of the main garment. It reached high under my chin to cover the tops of my shoulders where it broke and left my entire chest open. The jacket wound down under my armpits to gently curve towards my back, giving the illusion that it was unattached to anything. My arms were encased in its full sleeves that split at my elbows and flared open along my forearms reaching my calves. My dress was comprised of two parts, an outer and inner dress much like my purple Official Meeting Dress. This dress had a slight sweetheart gold embroidered neckline that pushed my breasts up nicely but not too garishly. It was tight around my torso and extended to the ground. The outer skirt trailed behind me at a chapel's length and was open in the front revealing my fine inner dress. This dress hugged my body more than the top skirt and was the same length.
Each piece reflected summertime in its coloring. The jacket was a pretty pale almost white peach with delicate gold embroidery along the sleeve edges. The otter dress was a darker, dusty peach that appeared either slightly orange or pink depending on the light. The inner dress was a creamy white with pretty gold decorations. Combined with my sun-tanned skin, the colors looked fabulous on me. I loved them. My hair was arranged in a high ponytail and was secured with a gold fastener. I wore gold earrings and my make-up was light.
Razel came into my dining room where I was being outfitted and stopped in the entrance way. He was dressed in his house robes, his black hair tied loosely. He said nothing but stared calmly at me.
"What do you think? I like this one a lot." I said turning to show him the whole outfit.
His ruby eyes were unreadable. "It's missing something."
"Oh? What?" I asked checking for mistakes.
"You, leave us." He told Doriado, my tailor.
"Yes My Lord," she bowed and gathering her things, she retreated from my dining room.
I stood in front of the tripod of mirrors, sighing as I knew Razel was going to pick apart my dress as he was wont to do. I was equally prepared to tell him to shove it because I liked it.
The Chaos Mage walked over to me in long strides. He stopped behind me.
"What? Go ahead. Criticize." I held out my arms welcoming his snide remarks.
Razel ignored my insult and brought his hands to encircle my neck. The warmth from his palms heated my skin and I felt the blood rise to my cheeks. For some reason since that time in my bathroom, any alone time with Razel caused me to either flush or my heart to thud.
"You are missing this. There now, you are ready," Razel's hands parted slowly to reveal a beautiful amethyst necklace. His long fingers ghosted over my collar bones and my chest felt strangled in my tight dress.
"Wow!" I gasped. The dark plum stone glittered beautifully in the mirror. It was huge too, had to be several karats.
I brought my fingers to touch it. "Razel, this is too much."
"Nonsense. As the Master of Magicians, you deserve this necklace. It is called the Black Pendant and is reserved for those with substantial Psychic abilities. It was crafted long ago, in the shops of gem merchants of Atlantis. It is yours now."
When he said this, I looked up at him in the reflection. "Atlantis?"
My blue mage's serious expression faded to that solemn reverence he so fondly saved for his memories of the woman he loved.
"Was it hers?" I gently asked touching the precious stone.
"It was to be hers. I instructed its creation, but death took her before I had the chance to gift it. It is yours now. She would want you to have it."
I took this moment to give respect to the stone that was now decorating my neck. Over ten thousand years ago, Razel had commissioned for this piece to be made so he could offer it as a gift to Princess Olympia. This necklace was precious to him. He never mentioned it to me before, and so I studied it with as much appreciation as one could bestow on such an item.
"Why are you giving this to me Razel? Isn't it dear to you? I would think you would not want to part with it." I said.
His mouth frowned. "It was difficult. Yet I have. It is an ancient treasure intended for the neck of the most imperial and high princess of the Empire of Atlantis. Now it adorns the neck of the future Master of Magicians. To it, there is no difference—one great Lady to another. To me, I see no difference."
I turned round to face him. We were close, he and I. His hands rested lightly on my upper arms. I searched those deep ruby pools for any sign of insincerity, fortunately discovering none.
"You think I'm great?" I clenched my fists inside my billowing sleeves, hoping he would say yes.
Razel no doubt knew I secretly wanted him to agree because he gave me a rare smile. "I do."
"That makes me very happy!" I said my face cracking into a wide grin. "I can't wait to go tomorrow! It's going to be so much fun."
I danced around in little jumps and spins. Razel said I was great. GREAT. He thinks I'm great! I was giddy—The Black Pendant glimmering in the light as I turned.
Day 1 of Midsummer Festival:
It was dusk when Razel and I ventured through the portal to the Duel Monster Spirit World. The cities of the Spellcasters were bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun, casting shadows along the streets. Below the people bustled about and I sensed the heightened excitement in the air. I wore my peach dress and Razel was arrayed in positive finery. Sleek dark trousers, a black tailored tunic, and black boots were his ensemble. His hair was tied neatly in cords of gold and hung like obsidian rope.
We touched down in the city square, a large crowd gathering to welcome us. Cheers and shouts rang as they saw Razel. They bowed and curtsied to their shining Elite, their praises lionizing him. I was received warmly and many mages cheered for me. In the crowd I saw the familiar faces of my mages whose voices clamored to reach me. All were there, even residents of the Citadel of Endymion.
Each one was finely dressed in clothing made especially for this event. But I did not notice the older mage's looks of surprise and respect as they recognized the gift Razel gave me. I spotted Von beyond the crowd, standing quietly near the door of a spellbook shop. I waved over at him and politely excused myself from the throng. They parted for me and I was able to reach my Ancient Elf. Von bowed and smiled that kind smile of him that I loved.
"Welcome Mistress. You look lovely."
"Thank you. I designed it myself. My first time ever, haha." I shifted so he could see it.
"It suits you very well Mistress!" He said. Then he saw the necklace I wore and his face grew curious. "The Black Pendant. I've only heard stories about its existence."
"Oh? What sort of stories?"
He waved his hand as if those tales were too many to count. "I've heard that the stone was forged by the Egyptian God Spirits, I've heard that it was created from a star that pummeled the earth. It holds magical properties that seldom have seen, save for Lord Razel and the royals of Atlantis. It is a stone of protection. Meant for another I have read."
I touched the stone, mildly taken by the fact that it was warm...like it was alive. I thought I felt it pulse under my fingers but chalked it up to my excitement.
"Check you out though Von, you're lookin snazzy," I remarked eyeing him up.
He wore a pale yellow robe with silver embroidered sleeves and was tied around his waist with a dark blue sash. The robe extended to his calves and flared out in the back leaving the front portion of his robe open. He wore dark trousers and beautiful saddle brown boots. His dark hair was pulled partially up, leaving his hair's length to brush his shoulders and upper back. I smelled a scent of lemongrass and ginger on him too. Being around Von was like having a security blanket—he just felt safe.
"So what happens now Von?" I linked my arm in his and we walked together down the cobbled main street.
"Now we join in the festivities." We walked under the shadow of a massive stone archway leading into the city proper. It was as if a curtain had been lifted and on the other side was a glittering celebration of music, food, dancing, and magic.
Streamers, banners, lights, musicians, dancers, food venders, and the most amazing examples of clothing impregnated the city. Spellcasters and Faeries mingled and partied together. Colors, colors, colors were everywhere. Scents of flowers and spices welcomed me and I became jumpy with excitement. I saw faces that I knew and others I did not. I saw Rai who scrambled over to me past a crowd and took me over to meet his friends. I shrugged at Von and went with my other mage.
By a table of sweets I saw Helion and Jalak speaking to Cassa, the Witch's Apprentice and Eura the Wind Witch Glass Bell. I was offered a goblet of berry wine, which I took, and gently sipped it. I'm not a huge drinker and wine is not my favorite but I did not want to appear rude. I was a guest tonight. But I knew that I had to eat something in order to avoid getting drunk so I meandered over to a vender selling savory and sweet breads and cakes. The table had an awning stitched out of brightly colored striped fabric of wide bands of purple and gold. Glowing floating gems of white slowly revolved above each post like little beacons. As a matter of fact, these stones decorated nearly every entranceway and iron fence. The city was filled with these toppers that spun and sent prisms of ethereal light out like Christmas lights.
"Brie?" I said to my magician working the stand. "What are you doing?"
Brie, who was surprised that I was there and saw him selling bread, blushed. "Mistress! What are you doing here?"
"I was invited to come. I had no idea you sold breads. Why did you not tell me?" I asked.
"It is a family business. I did not wish to tell you Mistress as I felt it to be too humble for your services."
"What? Nonsense! Why would I care about that? It's your family's business? How nice. What do you suggest? I don't want alcohol to be the only thing in my stomach so I came for something to absorb it." I eyed the delicious wares.
Brie relaxed when he saw my interest in his trade and so showed me his favorites. "This one is a crusty bread with a dense, moist interior and is baked with olives and rosemary."
"Oh, that sounds amazing." My mouth watered. "I'll take it. How much?"
"It is free Mistress," Brie said waving his hand and putting the bread in a bag.
"No it's not," I began. "Don't give it to me for free. You need to make money. How much?"
"It is free tonight Mistress," Razel said coming over to us. "This is a night of merrymaking and extravagance. It is the one night where venders refuse money for their wares. The last thing we need is a skirmish over a sweet cake." Razel took the bag from Brie and brought it to his nose.
"This is the olive loaf," Razel stated.
"It is Lord Razel. I recommended it to our Mistress." Brie said a tad nervously.
Razel inhaled the fine aroma of the bread again and made a noise of appreciation. "This loaf is one of my favorites. I was not aware that you were the one who made them."
Razel's tone was matter of fact but I could tell he was impressed that his underling was so skilled. "When I oversaw the ordering of bread for the Fortress kitchens, one of my many duties, I had no inclination that one day I would train the mage responsible for them." He reached into my bag and ripped a hefty chunk of the still warm bread.
"Hey!" I said going for the bag. "What are you doing that's mine!"
He wordlessly bit into the chunk and looked over me towards the festivities. "Just as I remember. Delicious."
Razel walked away with the bag in hand and I stomped after him as graciously as I could to get my bread back from my blue mage.
"Brie gave me that bread, Razel," I stated behind him. "I can't believe your absconding with my olive loaf!"
Razel ignored me and continued chewing. I swear! He can be so annoying!
I resisted the urge to kick him in the ass so I elongated my stride to match his. I was too ticked and amused to say anything. Razel actually enjoyed something other than training? Olive bread was one of his favorite things? I had no idea Razel had any favorite things. I was curious and wanted to ask him what else he liked but refrained. I was getting hungry and the wine in my stomach was making my cheeks tingle. Next to me I heard the crinkling of the bag as Razel showed humility and offered me some of MY bread.
"I sense your Energy wobbling around you. Eat before you get too drunk and risk embarrassing me."
I snatched the bag from him and glared at my obstinate mage as I tore a piece for myself. As soon as the buttery soft and smooth bread hit my mouth I moaned. "Oh my God, this is good."
I tasted everything I could get my hands on and everything that Razel did not swipe for himself. I realized that being an Elite he was not able to let himself go and have "fun" while he lived in the Fortress of the Elites. Here on the ground with me, though, he could let a tiny sliver of "fun" loose. He did not laugh or join in on the more raucous dances but he partook of my food with dignity and refinement. For Razel, that was letting his hair down. I think his presence unnerved the lower Spellcasters as they felt it proper to tame their behavior, but after drinks and a few hours of celebration I saw the Spellcasters party like horny teens in a nightclub. I had to laugh! They were usually very prim and businesslike—the traditional image of the stoic magician. But during the Midsummer Festival they turned into different people. I saw my claimed mages hooting and hollering, drinking and flirting. The little ones did not drink but they managed to party just as hard as the adults.
I was dragged to the dance floor by Lux, Rae, Brom, and others. It was a little hard to dance in my dress but I found ways. For obvious reasons I primarily hung with mages I knew and no one seemed to mind. Razel did not dance. He watched. I felt those red eyes watching me specifically, which tore me in two; to dance like a Lady and Mistress, or to dance like a regular human woman out having fun. I would turn to him and make faces while adlibbing more human dance moves. I teased him really. I got eye rolls and soft glares. His quick glances around informed me that he was making sure no one saw me, to save his dignity of course.
Heaven forbid Lord Razel's reputation become besmudged. My God the world might crumble.
A tap on my shoulder caused me to take my attentions off of my wall flower of a mage and turn round.
"Ha! Trance! I was wondering where you've been!" I exclaimed.
"Care to dance Mistress?" Trance bowed. He was dressed in finery, an emerald green tunic with fine cloth trousers secured by a belt of gold rope.
"Yeah!" I joined him.
The musicians played a wonderful score of dances. Some lively and others slower. The sun was beginning to set, casting an orange and purple glow across the lands. Trance and I had a blast together. He made me crack up with his witty jokes, he was a great dancer too. Not too surprised by that…it just went with his whole package. Perfect looks, perfect personality, perfect dance moves. When Neo found us and wanted to cut in, Trance horsed around with his younger brother, pulling him in a headlock and such. Neo freed himself and grabbed my wrist to spin me away from Trance. I went along, laughing in happiness. I was having such a great time with my Duel Spirits, seeing a side to them I rarely got to see.
Razel drank wine on the sidelines, monitoring us like a chaperone. A few brazen female mages attempted to lure him to dance with demure glances and soft, inquiring voices. One of them was a quite attractive woman named Hexe Trude. She had long black curly hair and a wine colored dress with a plunging neckline. With her Germanic facial tattoos and witch like jewelry, I figured she hailed from a more Alpine heritage. She tried too, like the others, to get Razel's attention.
I had to give them credit for trying. Razel flatly said no or ignored them completely. I was to later understand that a lower level mage asking an Elite to dance outright was unsightly and over-zealous. Normally, one had to ask a messenger and then they would pass the request along to the desired partner. It would be like a peasant asking a king to waltz with them. It just was not done without a go between. The whole practice was to ensure the exclusivity of the Elites and to spare the questioner potential chagrin. For Razel this unaccustomed lack of decorum and etiquette burned his nerves like a spark to a quick on a stick of dynamite. I saw Torunka too. He came to stand with his fellow Elite and the two of them struck up and conversation. I waved at my sage and he grinned brightly at me.
Neo, meanwhile, was a far more…adventurous dancer than Trance. He and I moved smoothly and gracefully. I was delighted when he asked the musicians to play more human world dance music, so that I could feel more at home. They agreed and played famous melodies from classic vinyl to the more modern songs. Being that they were used by other Duelists as cards, they were used to hearing human world music. Oh! Did I cut loose. I was able to do away with the more formal and collective dancing the Spellcasters tended to enjoy and replaced it with familiar moves. I did not gyrate or anything improper, I was among my Duel Spirits and the Spellcasters and I was representing my future status as Master of Magicians, but picture the classic and timeless portrayals of Dirty Dancing and Footloose. Dance moves that showcase your talent for control and timing, for finding the soul of dancing—not the sexual frenzy found in clubs or on school dance floors.
As dusk crept upon us, the city illuminated itself with thousands of magical lights. Like a wave rushing on land these flames of mysticism flowed throughout the city. That's when Neo stopped his dancing and pointed to the sky.
"When the stars come out that is when the Elites in the Floating Fortress make their grand entrance. They will usher in the Midsummer with their opening ceremony and then they will open their doors for us to celebrate with them."
"I see," I said.
"Now we wind down and all venture out to the fields to watch," Neo said.
As we finished our merrymaking, I teamed up with Razel again. I eagerly looked up to say something about the opening ceremony but quickly stopped. Razel's face was stern and evinced his anger over seeing an unwanted face in the crowd. I turned my head to see what he was glaring at and my gut dropped when I came upon the regal Mahad standing not but two hundred feet away. His lavender hair was loose and shining against his cutlass of pale cream. His aqua eyes fixed ahead of him towards the field. Today was one of the few occasions when he could join his magical brethren without much concern. Like a Get Out of Jail Day Pass. Though he was superficially welcomed, there was no one really near Mahad. Spellcasters steered clear of him, skirting away from having to mingle.
Though I was advised to likewise stay far from him, I could not help but feel sympathetic. Mahad stood alone. He was not craven, but he understood the rules by which his society laid down and respected them. I still did not like it. Razel sensed my discouragement and offered his arm to me.
"Do not bestow too much attention, Mistress. I will not have my Master gaze benevolently at the village idiot and traitor. Now take my arm—you and I must spearhead this event as Master and Elite." His words were final.
I opened my mouth to retort back but refrained and linked my arm with Razel's.
"What would Olympia have done, Razel?" I did not want to disappoint him by acting out of turn in his world and trample on his customs so I put the ball in his court. How would Atlantis's heir have handled this situation.
"She was an Imperial Princess, destined to become Empress of Atlantis. She would have followed protocol." He said. Then to my amusement, he added this. Quietly so that no one passing could hear Razel said, "However she did possess a kind heart."
To that I let a small smile appear.
We came to the large field which was decorated with colorful banners and tiny lights. A soft cool breeze blew, rustling my dress and sleeves. By now the sky was a lovely shade of navy, the millions of stars shining like bits of diamond. I stared in awe of the majesty of the night sky; that endless space of infinity. I wanted to open my arms wide and dance in that field.
At some point, Razel and I managed to be the first to enter the space. Behind me, the voices of Spellcasters and Faeries died down. Razel untwined his arm from mine and proceeded ahead into the expanse of the field, Torunka emerging from the crowd to stand with him.
I felt the anticipation in the air, their bubbling excitement and I felt my own expectation grow. To my left, Von had come to stand and I was grateful he was there.
"What's going on?" I whispered fearful of ruining the hushed moment.
"The Opening Ceremony. Lord Razel and Lord Torunka are going to address us and then the Fortress of the Elites will sing. All Elites, under Masters and not, must join to bring in the Midsummer Festival's opening. Just watch."
I did. Torunka looked to Razel, who nodded, and the both held up their right hands high.
"Fellow Mages, friends, honored guests—It brings me great pleasure, on this festive occasion, in welcoming you all here tonight. As you know, this celebration stems back thousands of years, to when we first danced and gave praise to the powers of the Midsummer. It is when the veils between our world and those of the celestial and ethereal converge and give birth to new Energies that will sustain us for the remainder of the year. It is a magical time. And especially auspicious this year for we are honored by the attendance of a very special guest. My Lady please come, step forward," Torunka gestured for me to come away from the crowd and stand alone.
My heart jumped into my throat. My nerves twisted and I felt all eyes on me, watching me expectantly. My mouth dry, I took stiff steps towards Razel and Torunka. I kept my eyes at their chests. I could not believe they were putting me on the spot like this. Even though I went to that meeting of leaders, opened the portal between our worlds, and summoned Obelisk…I still hated being singled out.
Torunka spoke again. "My Lady of the Chaos Mage, She Who Walks Between Two Worlds, Summoner of Great Power, My Mistress… my fellow Spellcasters and I welcome you on this eve. Come, take your place among us." Torunka offered his right hand and I reached for it.
My hand shook with bridled anxiety. "Torunka, I don't think you should be doing this," I whispered. "This could be misconstrued as favoritism and I am already an unaccounted guest."
The last thing I wanted or needed was to be thought of as "teacher's pet," and not Master.
"I don't want any special honor, I just want to enjoy this with the rest of them." I said earnestly.
"Will you be quiet and do as we say?" Razel snapped at me in a low voice. "Do not be insufferable."
"Shut the hell up Razel! It's an honest concern. We can't all be Elitist princesses now can we?" I shot back.
Razel's mouth twitched. A vein in his neck flexed and he gave me a thunderous glare. "What did you say?" His question was a snarled whisper.
When we argue, location and circumstance don't matter. Razel and I were about to go at it.
To this Torunka laughed, his long beard jostling on his robes of purple and black. "My goodness! Why the two of you bickering could bring me back to my youth! Young Razel you should treat the Mistress with more grace."
I laughed. "Ha! Thank you Torunka."
"I'll treat her with grace when she learns some," Razel muttered.
"When we get home I'm gonna kick you so hard in your ass Razel you'll forget the meaning of grace." I stated taking my place next to Torunka.
Torunka thought it was the funniest thing he ever saw. His subdued chuckles rumbled in his throat and his chest bobbed with each contraction.
"My friends! My fellow Lords and Ladies of the Fortress! The hour is upon us! The sun has set and the stars surround us! In honor of this night, we of the Elites wish you a very merry Midsummer!"
Power surged from Torunka and Razel. Their Energies and magic mounted like a great tsunami, rising higher and higher each second. From the distance the Floating Fortress of the Elites shone brightly in a rainbow of colorful Energy. The powers of the Elites in that Fortress were combining their might and with that power came a chiming song. It was not from any throat, but the very air singing with renewed vitality as the Midsummer introduced itself. Energy rushed around the three of us, spiraling from Torunka's and Razel's upheld arms. I watched in gleeful excitement as their Energy shot from their hands and rose high into the night to be struck with the bombarding pillar of magic from the Fortress. The Elites Energies clapped in a brilliant burst of sparkles and glittering bits of sorcery.
That great pillar traveled towards the heavens and exploded into rays and lights of magic. The Spellcasters cheered and thundered in applause. The Faeries sung and danced under the falling snowflakes of power which fell slowly to the earth glimmering like shards of crystal and diamond. I could not hold back, I too had to join in their exstatic dance. I ran away from my two Elites and jumped into a circle of twirling female mages and faeries. We extended our arms high and tossed our heads back, letting the glitter land on our faces. Each particle tingled and recharged our souls. My hair sparkled and my dress and "jacket"s sleeves looked like shining wings. My mages raced towards me, drawing me into their joyous frolic. I loved the Spellcasters! I loved their world and their traditions! I saw Mahad standing away but smiling up at the sky. He resembled Razel so much that I giggled. He was handsome. He brought his eyes to me no doubt feeling my staring at him.
I did not feel the same way his brethren did about him so I smiled and gave a light wave. The upturn of his lips was subtle, cautiously reserved, but I could tell he was relieved to be acknowledged positively by another. Without thinking I made to go over to him, only succeeding in a few steps. A loud horn sounded drawing our attention to the Fortress. I laughed in excitement as a ridiculously large red carpet spewed forth from the open doors and landed in the field before us. It creased on its own to form steps leading right into the Grand Hall. Balls of glowing stones lined the carpet steps on both sides. Then a hush fell over the onlookers; Torunka and Razel approached the steps. Torunka set foot on the bottom step and then went first. I quickly surmised that attendance went in order of rank and knew Razel was next.
He came up to me and held out his hand.
"Mistress, as your True Duel Spirit and Magician of Black Chaos, it is my honor to escort you to the Floating Fortress. My home."
I took his hand and stood beside him as we made the long climb upwards. Being there next to him I felt like a princess. It was his duty to walk with me when making introductions, but he never held my hand. In official meetings Razel maintains a respectful distance from me, but for this he led me. I was HIS guest and I was meeting HIS superior and equals. He would be presenting me as his sanctified Mistress, not just a political figurehead.
Behind us Spellcasters proceeded up the steps as if it was nothing, which it wasn't to them. They chattered and smiled broadly, their spirits as high as the stars. Voices rung in the night as the crowds ascended towards the Fortress. The compound itself was a monolithic metropolis with tall spires and towers, high fortified walls topped in gold, and a main center building outfitted with hundreds of large windows. The structure was made of white alabaster, marble and granite stone with beautiful blue stone accents. It looked Medieval and Byzantine. Grand archways of gold and steel loomed over us as we finally made it to the grounds. Blazing lanterns and fires of witchcraft illuminated the paths surrounding us. The air was rich with sweetness and everything seemed crisper to the senses. Lavish outdoor decorations welcomed us. The whole thing was probably as big as Philadelphia. Mile after mile of open and wooded fields, forests, and gardens that would make Babylon envious. Waterfalls cascaded musically over the sides of the Fortress's island. Training grounds and the Royal Magical Library dominated the western portion of the compound.
I followed Torunka and Razel's lead to the Grand Hall. An imposing building with long bridges connecting it to the rest of the island, the Main Hall was complete with its own sprawling courtyard. Fountains as high as telephone poles shot out crystal blue water, flowers and shrubs were so vibrant that they seemed to glow. Flags fluttered in the night breeze as the open front gateway heralded us over. I caught sight of movement from within and I guess it came from the other Elites. Suddenly my chest tightened and I clenched Razel's hand.
"We shall enter the Main Hall soon. In there you will be among my peers and my superior."
"Don't worry Razel. I won't act like an ass this time." I said. "I never knew how much of a big deal this would be. I'm happy I came. Plus I get to see a bit of your world and that makes me happy too."
Each step closer was agonizing. I was going to meet Razel's fellow Elites, the strongest Spellcasters in their world. They would scrutinize and judge me. They would watch me like hawks for any misstep. They would wager if I was worthy enough to Master their beloved Razel. The pressure was crushing to get every foreseeable gesture, sentence, thought perfect.
We stopped at the door. It was a tall, three hundred foot mouth of an opening with the same red carpet as its tongue and the cavernous inner Grand Hall in place of guts. From where I stood I could tell that the Hall was indeed grandious, and that right in front of us, seated on his highly perched throne, was the head of the Spellcaster Race. Trumpets sounded from inside and a booming voice bellowed.
"Presenting Lord Torunka, the Dark Sage and Master of Lore!"
Torunka turned to us, playfully winked and said, "See you young bloods inside."
He entered the Grand Hall as if he never left it. Throwing about his colorful and un-sage like personality. "Ah! Greetings my old friends! Such a fine night for Midsummer. Loki! Still as wrinkled as an old crone I see!"
I heard laughter and responses of welcome.
"Jeeze, that old codger," I whispered.
"Presenting Lord Razel, the Magician of Black Chaos, the Sapphire Elite, Master of Black Magic, and True Duel Spirit! Presenting The Lady Mistress of the Chaos Magician."
Cheers and boisterous applause rang from inside, echoing off of the high ceilings. I swallowed. My nerves threatened to kill me. Razel was an Elite, their champion. Who was I but a small human?
Razel sensed my trepidation and whispered, "Just breath. They are jackals but fear not. I am with you and they would not dare slander my Master."
He stepped forward and I was powerless to stop it. I followed like a puppy. Flashes of cold and hot anxiety raced in my veins. My dress was an iron cage, my high collar a spiked trap. We entered the Grand Hall and I was dazzled by the brilliance of the beauty. The Elites framed us on either side each resplendent in stunning finery. Power seeped into the air from them and I felt incredibly tiny. They all stared at me.
What would Olympia do? What would Olympia do? She would stand up straight and strong and keep a level head. I told myself. Ok, I can do this.
The walk to the great throne was long and arduous. Razel nodded and greeted his peers. It was here that I saw how well he fit with this world. He was an Elite and this Fortress was his home. He mingled with these magicians, ate with them, trained with them. The grandeur of this Hall, the exquisite clothing, the impeccable manners, the mastered control and composure, the haughty superior glances, it explained everything.
At last we stopped a few feet from the dais upon which the Spellcaster Head sat on his throne. I stared into his blazing green eyes. He was a fair magician of solid build, with long muscled limbs and a stern countenance. His skin was a pale blue with black markings on his cheeks and chin…much like Razel. His mouth was hard and his nose was sharp. Long tresses of goldenrod yellow hair framed his face and pooled about his hips. His robes were long and midnight blue and gold. Razel and I were silent as we stood there. It was amazing how someone could command universal respect as he did.
I want that too, I thought. I will have it.
When I thought he might never speak, only appraise us like horses…well he checked me out like I was a prospective purchase, to Razel he actually grinned, this mage opened his mouth.
"Lord Razel. We have missed you, our dearest friend. It has been far too long since last we spoke."
This Spellcaster had the deepest, richest voice and conversed with refined and deliberate prose. I wanted to be just like him.
"Indeed it has Lord Abraxis. I meant to write but alas my engagements of late have been a distraction." Razel replied.
Abraxis, the Quintet Magician and leader of the Spellcaster Race, made to rise from his throne.
"I understand Lord Razel. There is no worry. We are in joy just to have you return to us once again, if only for one night."
Interesting how he used the royal We…
His sharp emerald eyes shot over to me and I felt my stomach jump. His pupils were pinpricks, adding to the ferocity of his gaze. "And this must be your famed distraction."
Razel answered and upheld our clasped hands in offering of me to him. "Yes. This is my Mistress, She Who Walks Between Two Worlds, She Who Calls Forth Great Power, and future Master of Magicians."
"I know who you are, young lady. You may approach. Stand here." Abraxis used his chin to indicate the desired spot.
Fighting against my anxiety was like hauling a block of lead. Gathering my skirt in my left hand, I stepped up the dais. The moment my fingers slipped away from Razel my heart went into survival mode. It was so quiet in the Grand Hall you could hear a pin land with starteling loudness. My mouth dried and my vision cleared. One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, there at the top!
Abraxis towered over me, easily a head taller than Razel. I did not know what to do, so I inclined my head in a quick bow.
"Lord Abraxis,"I said.
"I have heard much about you, little one. My court cannot stop prattling on about that portal of yours. Nor can they resist mentioning how you single handedly summoned an Egyptian God Spirit! Do you hear? This human woman has managed to call forth Obelisk the Tormentor as easily as one picks their teeth! Such a feat cannot and will not go unnoticed. And you completed your first official counsel with our Allies and their Leaders, securing armies should our enemies declare war. My Lady, you honor me with your presence here. And the fact that you are My Lord Razel's Mistress impresses upon me that you are of sound mind and strong will. This one is no push over. Your kindness towards my people and your understanding of our ways tells me that you are sincere and you wish for the happiness of my subjects. You have come very far in such a short while, Razel is training you well. You should be proud to have such a fine tutor," Abraxis clapped his hands and soon the other Elites followed.
First of all, Obelisk wasn't easy. Second I was cautious, yet gracious. I had seen monarchs in shows and movies—where they placate their guest with lavish praise but secretly resent the individual for one reason or another. Was Abraxis one of those rulers? I had no way of knowing and I dared not chance reading his thoughts.
"You flatter me unnecessarily Lord Abraxis," I said demure and humbled. "I am your guest, a partygoer to your ancient custom. There is no need to recite titles."
Abraxis stopped his applause and offered his right hand for me to take. "Yes! You are right! Tonight is not the place for such pomp. If I may, allow me to introduce you."
I went with him. We stepped down to the carpeted floor and from there Abraxis brought me to each Elite.
"Lady Andromeda, this is the Master of the Chaos Mage. My Lady, this is Lady Andromeda, the Cosmo Queen."
This Spellcaster was rightfully odd; a large black and golden headdress that resembled a sideways barrel sat atop her head with spikes to the left, right, and one straight up from an oval stone of pink sapphire, a long maroon gown, and a heavy breastplate were her decorations. Her skin was lavender and her tiny eyes burned red-orange.
"A pleasure," came her wispy, semi-robotic voice. She looked like an alien, figures she'd sound the part too.
Next was Lady Cossette, the Sorcere du Flure. She was tall and waif thin with floral motifs to her dress. Her skin was pale and her long hair was dark blue in color.
After her came Loki, Umbral, and the others. I received generally courteous words of welcome but no one really seemed thrilled I was there. I had to remind myself that these Spellcasters were the Elites, the political figureheads of their Race—of course they would not be as open towards me as those on the ground. Razel was ever present, staying a few paces behind me. He greeted his comrades and was granted boisterous acclaim in return. They loved and missed him. Now the Hall seemed less like a funeral home and more like a place of celebration. When Abraxis and I drew to the last two he spoke softly to me.
"I hope that you will not be foolish and overstep your bounds, My Lady. I am the Lord of Whispers and Head of this house of mine. I know every goings on here. I would so hate to hear of any misconduct." He let his comment hang in the air like I was an idiot.
"I wouldn't dream of it Lord Abraxis. Unlike a fool, I know what I can handle and what I cannot." I smiled and nodded to those magicians I met.
"That is good to hear. You are my guest tonight, but you are not their Master. Nor are you my Master. I hope you do not presume to think of yourself as such. You have a long, long way to go before you could hope of challenging them or me." He stated snidely through a smile of his own.
He was like a snake with that grin. I liked him less and less, but I took pleasure in his discreet disdain of me; He was threatened.
"Don't be silly, My Lord. I have more propriety then that. Yet I will remind you, My Lord, that I am She Who Calls Forth Great Power," I slowed and caught his eyes as he turned to see why I would do so. "I might not have as long of a way as you think. Shall we call a spade a spade and agree to not presume anything of the other before we must?"
Abraxis did not like that. I sensed it in his Energy. No one threatened him, not even his Elites. My previous tensions waned and were quickly replaced by cold, truthful replies.
"Do you believe that the great Obelisk shared his powers with you? Be advised My Lady, such arrogance could get you killed." He smiled at a few of the lower level mages making their way into the Grand Hall for the night.
"Begging your pardon but, if Razel is any example, one needs arrogance to survive in this world of yours, and my own. But it is not arrogance that encourages me. I have the strength on my own, I know that and Obelisk's gifts enhance my natural born skills. Which grow stronger by the day. I mean no disrespect Lord Abraxis, nor any threat to your esteemed position, but I have my mages, I have my power, I have the power of Obelisk, and I have Razel. I am only a threat so much as one considers."
"Is that so? You are no threat to anyone here My Lady."
"Perhaps, but I have power, Lord Abraxis. Power that will only grow. Until then I wish for us to be on friendly terms." I waved to Pien Fang and Mei Ya as they entered.
"I wish that as well. I will say though that I do miss Lord Razel deeply. Seeing him here tonight only rehashes that gaping wound. He was a brilliant magician and a genius on the battlefield. Perhaps I erred in letting him go to your world. I might have to call him back where he belongs."
My heart thudded against my sternum, my eyes narrowed. That crossed a line. You can threaten me, you can even put down the Human Race, but when you start fucking with Razel then I have a problem. I did not care that this mage was the leader of the Spellcasters. I did not give a rat's ass that he was Razel's superior. No one uses Razel as leverage on me and gets away with it. Not then…not now.
"If you so much as whisper for Razel to leave me and return to this world, I swear that no amount of Elites would stop me from getting him back. He is my True Duel Spirit. Anyone who tries to harm him will face me. And you will have much more than Warriors to worry about." I sent out my Energy into Abraxis, an icy blade that pressed itself against his power.
"Please calm yourself. I have no intention of harming him. And I mean no disrespect to your Ladyship either, these are merely the rules of the game. If you want to win, you must learn how to play them. Ah! Here we are. The Lords Darius and Silan. May I present Lord Razel's ward and Master." Abraxis gestured to me, his civility masking his calculating tones.
Lord Darius, pronounced Dar-I-uus, made that error once, was the Sorcerer of Dark Magic. An impressive figure, Darius was tall and very muscular. His hair, which was a dirty blonde, hung to his hips and was secured by a dark blue cord. His skin was slightly tanned giving him a more Californian complexion. Deep set eyes of steel blue peered out at me. His mouth, which was set in a slight frown, twitched at the corners as one does when faced with something they find to be a surface nuisance. So this was the magician Razel had so many tiffs with back in the day, I thought. He had mentioned the two of them did not get on well and I could see why.
"You are the Blue Devil's Master?" Darius bit. He was holding a goblet of silver, the red glow of his wine looking like blood.
I did not much care that he called Razel a Blue Devil, but I had to remind myself that etiquette came first. So I ignored it.
"I am Razel's Master. Pleased to meet you Lord Darius." I nodded my head respectfully.
"Pity. I expected someone greater. But I suppose enigmas tend to fine each other."
That's all he said to me. He turned his disinterested face away and drank his wine in throaty swallows. I cocked my jaw to the side in annoyance. Prick. Bringing him into my fold might take some work.
Great, I have two of the most powerful Spellcasters against me, one hinting at his displeasure if I step out of turn, and the other openly treating me like a scullery maid. Could this interaction possibly get any better? I certainly hoped it would. And I was in luck that night! Lord Silan, the Dark Paladin exhibited the same dispassionate attitude towards me as if they rehearsed it. I must add, that these three magicians—Abraxis, Darius, and Silan—were my most difficult and obstinate additions to my group. Of my mages, besides, Razel, I give these three the widest birth. However I am quick to point out that these three are some of my most trusted counselors and advisors. They were and are tough, but worth it. I remember casting a quick glance over to Razel, who was busy conversing with Loki and Andromeda. He seemed so far away, worlds away in fact from me. It struck me how different his whole vibe was now that he was with his contemporaries. His every gesture showcased his elevated status and I found myself disturbed by the fluidity with which he slid back into his old role. I hoped then that Abraxis was wrong about Razel…I hoped that Razel would never leave me.
Silan, spoken as Sea-lan, was far more threatening in appearance than Darius. Standing as tall as Abraxis with an equally powerful form, Silan was akin to a mighty oak—sturdy and unwaveringly menacing. His skin was a mint green hue, with sharp features and high cheek bones. His mouth was a perpetual smirk radiating a smugness that, if I were not as confident in my abilities, was enough to shrink those who saw it back into the comforting blackness of their rat holes. Silan promoted that same soul stealing, defeating attitude through those haunting pools of succulent orange. I noticed with faint interest that he too had black lines tattooed under his eyes reaching to his cheeks. Silan's hair was worn long as well, its color an unusual mixture of dusty lavender and taupe.
"Enigmas indeed Darius," Silan began. "Perhaps it was her mortality that swayed Lord Razel to her side. Remember he has a fondness for human women." His comment was not flattering, it was snide and demeaning.
Fondness for human women—he made it sound like we were second class citizens. He was insulting me. He was insulting Razel. And he was insulting the memory of Princess Olympia. I grit my teeth. I could not make enemies of Razel's constituents, that would not bode well for him or me. Instead I chose calculated flattery.
"It is an honor to meet both of you. Razel has spoken fondly of you and of your skills in magic. I'm just flattered that you permitted me to see more of his world. I've wondered about his life before he came to me. I can see now that it was very grand." I smiled innocently. I had to opt for diplomacy, it was much better than calling these smug, braggadocios mages out on their insults. I could save that for later.
Silan continued. "Come now Darius, the Lady may be human but she is our guest. Tonight is a night for good tidings, not to nitpick and criticize. You will enjoy the festivities, My Lady. The height of the evening is the Midsummer Ball here in the Grand Hallroom. I look forward to seeing who you will choose to be your dance partner." With that, Silan gave a nod of his head and he and Darius ventured over to one of the many banquet tables heaped with food.
Once again I was left with Abraxis whose shoulders bounced with amused chuckles. "Pay them no heed. They are jealous of Lord Razel's accolades and have attempted to best him many times."
I made a noise. "They can try. But I can see why they will never be better than Razel."
"Oh? And why is that?" Abraxis asked in a humored and curious tone.
"They are too blinded by their superiority complexes to recognize their faults. They're too prideful. Once they can identify where they are weak, then they can improve. But I doubt that's going to happen."
"Is not Razel prideful as well?" Abraxis questioned.
"Yes. Very much. Annoyingly so… actually. But he is also highly observant and easily sees where faults and weaknesses lie. He is quick to fix them after that."
"It seems that trait does not stray too far from teacher to student."
Abraxis walked me back to where Razel was. He was with Shalik the Neos Wiseman, an unusual creature that resembled a comic book villain, Pavenna the Wind Witch Crystal Bell, a faceless humanoid mage with spherical body parts colored purple and blue, and Misandra the Ice Queen, a pretty mage dressed in crystal and ice.
Turning towards us they bowed.
"Lord Abraxis."
"Razel, I have returned your Mistress. She is as bright and reserved as her tutor. My Lady, it was a pleasure." Abraxis gave a modest bow and left us.
Shalik, Pavenna, and Misandra were very polite to me I have to say. Whether or not it was a courtesy for Razel's sake or they really did like me was anyone's guess. But then the cynic in me stepped aside when I figured out that Razel knew these mages far better than I, and judging from his at ease body language I knew that they were being sincere. Out of the twenty-two Elites that I met that night, only eight of them showed an interest in me than went beyond my mortal status. These eight Elites were interested in me as a person and a Master. Including Shalik, Pavenna, and Misandra, the other five were Andromeda, Daveed the Nekroz of Valkyrus, a ruggedly handsome mage dressed in elaborate armor who had silver hair and a trace beard, Cossette the Sorciere de Fleur, the spunky and cute Amelia the Blizzard Princess, and the dark humanoid Umbral the Number C104: Umbral Horror Masquerade.
"So tell me, what was it like to feel the power of the almighty Obelisk?" Shalik asked fully anticipatory.
"Otherworldly," I said. What else was I going to say? It was amazing? An honor to do so? A great moment in my career as a Master? Hell no. It was fucking awful. Exhausting and near fatal actually. Honestly I would not be surprised if I did die in that room at Kaiba Corp. Headquarters for a brief moment.
"I have never seen the Great Lord Obelisk," Daveed mentioned holding his glass of wine lightly in his hand. "Pray tell what does he look like?"
I tried to remember the God Spirit. The only time I saw him, or at least I think I saw him, was when I was unconscious. And even that might have been an image created out of his Energy and Energy from the Universal forces of the metaphysical itself—not a physical form but one interpreted and created by perceived thought. What I saw was a hulking, winged monolithic beast of sapphire blue skin on a massive body with hard boulders of muscles like the face of a mountain side. An equally massive head that bore a quasi-Nemes crown around a nightmarish horned face of sharp, features, glowing red eyes like pits of lava, and a demonic lipless grin bearing razor like teeth. In summoning Obelisk I had forged a link with him, one that would benefit me in times of need. But until I was strong enough to summon him again and stay alert, this memory was all I had to rely on.
"He was pretty scary looking," I said.
As the evening wore on, at last it came time for the ball. Music from the orchestra sounded and mages took dance partners out on to the dance floor. Elites danced with non-Elites and the Hall was filled with happy laughter and sentiment. I was nervous so I lingered with Von and a few others. Pien Fang and Mei Ya danced together all night and I smiled at their little poorly hidden attraction to each other. Razel danced with Elite females, much to their delight, leaving me to hang with Von. My Ancient Elf quietly watched as his fellow Spellcasters paraded around the dance floor. I was pleased that all mages were getting along and I waved to my own magicians when they twirled past me. They danced some sort of waltz. I was unfamiliar with the steps and I'm not the best waltzer so I opted to stay back. I can dance, as evidenced by the video I made for Tea, I'm just not a fan of formal dancing like this.
"Are you not going to dance Mistress?' Von asked breaking the silence between us.
"Mmm, I don't know. I don't know this dance. The last thing I need is to make as ass of myself here of all places," I mumbled. "What about you? Why are you not out there?" I pointed with my thumb.
"I have not danced this waltz in centuries. I am afraid that I might not recall the steps," He smiled lightly at me.
"Nonsense. I know you better than that Von. You haven't forgotten anything." I shook my head disbelieving his lie. I always felt that Von kept secrets about himself from me and the others, like he was some sort of side to him that he wanted to stay private.
Beside me I heard a light chuckle, one that a person makes when they have resigned themselves to the inevitable.
"In that case—Do you want to dance?"
"Von I told you, I don't know how," I stated in a low voice. It was not in proper form to abstain from the Ball, but by the same token I did not want to look the fool either.
"It is a simple dance. Do not worry. Come, I'll show you."
He took my hand and led me out into the throng of Spellcasters. We eased our way past couples spinning like ballerinas in a music box to come to our own niche in the center of the floor. The sounds of the music, the clinks of glasses, the murmur of voices, and the swishing fabrics came together in a cacophony of noise. Von took my left hand and gently put it on his right shoulder.
"Set your hand like so. Now take your other hand and put it in mine," taking my right hand, Von held it aloft. "There. My free hand goes around your waist."
Each instruction brought me closer and closer to blushing because Von treated every gesture as if he was handling a priceless artifact. Not to mention the fact that he kept staring at me with those soft chocolate eyes.
"Don't laugh at me if I screw up," I blurted out to break the awkward mood.
"I will not laugh Mistress. Everyone begins at the bottom. Everyone must 'screw up' if they are to succeed." Von repeating my words made me crack up.
"I guess so. Alright then, teach me." I straightened up.
"First, step back with your right foot like this," Von came towards me, his left leg forcing me to move my right away from him. "Good, now rise on the balls of your feet and take two steps then with your left foot, bring it forward and I'll step back. Then we repeat these moves while we travel with them."
I did as he said. I tried to mimic the steps, I did land on his feet several times before I got the rhythm of it. Von did not wince when I squished his toes, thank God. I apologized and hoped that none of the Elites saw my mistakes. After a while, Von and I fell into the gait of flat-toe-toe-toe-flat. He got me to travel around the dance floor and I joked that we all bobbed up and down like horses on a carousel. Von laughed and agreed. When he thought I was ready, Von increased his tempo and sped up to keep pace with the music.
"Very good Mistress! You see? You are getting it."
"You don't make me feel embarrassed so I can learn more quickly," I responded.
"I'm happy to hear that. Now, here comes a livelier part of this dance. Follow my movements. One, two, three and four, five, six, seven and eight." He counted off the steps as the music went from its previous slow speed to a more bouncy and light-hearted tune. We all trotted and made tiny jumps all the while spinning around the dance floor. I was having a great time. It was like I was at a dance in the antebellum South, everyone smiling and chatting and having a grand ol' time. Von maneuvered us through the crowds, his feet leading us with ease. I was surprised to find how skilled of a dancer he was for being a reclusive elf. This Von did not at all fit the image of some lonely mage in the woods living in a hut. Von was in fact well educated, skilled in magic and healing arts, and apparently well versed in the performing arts. I'm not saying that Von was not or could not be a solitary magician with these attributes—he is, it just seemed to me back then to not fit and my thoughts wandered to Rai's mentioning of Von's time at the University of Magic.
In the light of the Grand Hall, Von looked even more like the handsome renditions of Tolkien's elves and I smiled to myself as I thought of the vindictive preppy chicks I suffered with through high-school. They all considered themselves better than I was because they all dated jocks. But being with Von, his tall and lean body, his clean movements, those chocolate eyes and that warm smile…Ha! I'd love to see their faces now.
Dancing with Von, I felt so relaxed and happy. I could let down my reserve with him and I desperately needed it that night, if just for a moment. The music changed once the waltz was over into a very rambunctious tune that garnered gleeful remarks. It was very upbeat and carefree. Soon couples were jumping and spinning as they traveled across the dance floor. Clothes and hair swished as these cyclones of mages danced by me. Their laughter was infectious and Von gripped my hand a little tighter. I caught the mischievous twinkle in his eyes, and I loved how impish my scholastic elf now seemed. Before I could say anything, Von whisked us away to join in the raging river of dancers.
At one point the dance called for the male partner to sort of give away the female to another suitable male to continue the festivities. I was not privy to this rule so when Von suddenly released me and lightly pushed me towards another dancer, I was momentarily stunned. I was still laughing, but not ready for my next dance partner. We spun around and I was taken into the arms of Lord Darius. Needless to say, my expression dropped. His did as well. My next thought was, oh shit he's going to make me look like a fool!
I could keep up with Von, but could I do the same with an Elite? Especially one who openly disliked me? I tried to pick up on Razel's Energy but whimpered inside when it was way in the other direction. Darius's glacier cold stare on me riled my nerves as I'm sure it was designed to do. We danced animatedly along with the others but we were probably the most stoic of the Hall. When I caught Von's eye I glared murderously at him.
"I say, the feeling is mutual," Darius said in his gruff voice.
"I honestly don't know why I bother you so much. I've never done anything to you," I spat back.
He spun me around, nearly knocking me off balance. This asshole!
"It is several fold. One, you are a mortal and mortals are weak creatures. Moreover they try and sometimes succeed in dragging us down with them. Two, You and the Blue Devil share the Link and seeing as I find that privileged miscreant hateful, I see you as no different than he. Third, while I cannot stand him, he is an Elite Spellcaster and to think that a human woman of all things! By the Gods! Could bend Razel to their will disgusts me. What did you do? Spread your legs like that other human wench?"
I tensed and curled my lip in anger at him. I really did not like this magician and I hated the fact that he was slandering Razel and Princess Olympia. It made my body fucking boil.
"If we were in any other situation I would slap you so fucking hard your neck would snap for saying that," I sneered. I did not care for decorum at that point. "You know, in my world there are many men just like you—ignorant, pig-headed, and primitive. You may be an Elite but the way you behave Darius, you do not deserve the title. Your myopic outlook towards Razel and me will leave you only by yourself. I want you to think about that for the future. You are right, I may not have the skills yet to master the rest of the Elites in a battle. I would not use Obelisk's power either, but my own Psychic abilities to bring you over. I learn fast Darius, I advise you to be ready for that day. I am the Master of the Magician of Black Chaos and the future Master of Magicians —the next time you abuse me will be the last time you wear your title."
Thinking back, I remember clearly when I made that threat. It was one of the first times I asserted myself in my position to a fellow Spellcaster. I do marvel at myself. I had gone from being a freaked out normal girl, to a confident Master on her way to being the highest ranking Psychic Duelist yet known and Master of the Spellcasters. As the days wore on, I fell more and more into my role and I began to believe that becoming the Master of the Magicians was my right by destiny.
After I finished with Darius, I left him speechless and moved on to dance with Neo, Lux, Helion, Jalak, and other mages of mine. More than once I spotted Mahad standing alone by the eastern wall. He did not appear to be put off by not joining in, he just stood there staring. Rules in the Duel Monster Spirit World are strict and followed. And while no one "excluded" Mahad from the evening's celebrations, he was not "included" either. He was sort of like a pretty cut flower; placed on display for the night only to be cast away come morning. I was released by my current dance partner and was on my way to my next but felt a pang in my heart when I saw that it was Saagi, of Saagi the Dark Clown. I hated clowns and still do. Like spiders and dolls they terrify me. Luckily I was saved by Von at the last minute who apologized for his cutting in and twirled me far away from the grinning jester.
Together again, I let my disapproval be known to him. "I can't believe you would do that Von. Make me dance with Darius."
"Apologies Mistress. I had no idea he was next in the queue to dance. If I had known, I would have opted out of that turn." Von showed his concern in his eyes, he always does. It's his noticeable weakness—no matter what, his emotions shine through in his eyes like they were neon lights.
"You're lucky I believe you," I said glancing around at familiar faces.
"Was Lord Darius not pleasant?" Von asked.
"I don't think he, Silan, and Abraxis like me very much." I was truthful.
Von raised a brow, his mouth fighting incredulity. "Whatever makes you think that?"
I shrugged, lazily rolling my eyes. "I just know. It's the same thing that used to happen to me in high-school with the popular girls. For some reason they just hated me. It's a human thing."
"How very odd. Here you must do a deed to incur dislike, be it positive or negative. I have never come across a Spellcaster who hates another merely because the other exists."
"Humans are weird what can I say?" I said.
"There are moments when I feel that your kind is," Von laughed.
I wish that I had been better prepared for what was to happen. I wish I had been aware. But as so often in life, we find ourselves caught off guard and vulnerable. Amid the celebrations of Midsummer, the doors to the Grand Hall burst open promptly halting the events within. We all looked to see who it was that entered. From where I stood on the dance floor, I made out a frantic creature of the Fiend Race, haggard and winded, racing as fast as its little legs could carry it towards Abraxis. It was small and round, about the size of a beach ball, covered in tea brown fur. Its clawed feet were green with short legs. Its arms were longer, clawed and the same shade of sage. The wide fanged mouth let out gusts of breath reflecting the worried frenzy in its three large eyes. It panted and wiped the sweat from its brow while flailing the scroll in its right hand like the Olympic Torch. No one spoke as this Fiend raced up the red stretch of carpet to the dais. Von tightened his hold on my waist and I desperately wanted to ask what was happening but I knew. We all knew.
"Lord Abraxis of the Spellcaster Race!" The creature sputtered as it bounded up the steps to the powerful mage. "A thousand pardons My Lord, I do not mean to intrude on your festivities but I have an urgent scroll for you to see!"
Snatching the missive from the Fiend, Abraxis popped open the wax seal and unfurled the scroll. It stole his attention for seconds but those seconds felt unbearable. I groaned quietly when Abraxis hastily rose from his throne and began to read in a booming voice.
"Lords and Ladies! Sangen has delivered unto me a message of great importance. I apologize to be the bearer of bad tidings tonight. But these words will not go unpunished.
'To those of the Spellcaster Race and their allies, let it be known that the Race of the Warriors and their allies have invaded the outlying lands of the Plant Race, destroying homes and cities. They cry Death to the Magic Users in the streets and show no remorse. Demiuk sits upon his horse ever watchful, his closest generals leading the charge. The hour is nigh. The time has come. We are with you!'
Such news on such a night will never be forgiven! The Warriors attack our allies like thieves in the dark! We shall show no mercy!"
Thunderous shouts and cries of war rang high in the Grand Hall. I never imagined any crowd reaching a noise that reverberating was possible. As a young Master and a human I was sorely out of place; I suddenly felt the harsh truth about being among a completely different culture and species of magic and fantasy. Such things did not exist anymore in my world, the archaic manners and thirst for battle. I cannot recall feeling more like I did not belong then at that immediate moment. I remember feeling foolish—I knew war was possible but I lived under the fanciful glamour of a magical world that did exist and was filled with creatures and individuals of real magic. It was a fairytail, going to these parties and befriending these magicians. I had gotten so caught up in the beauty and splendor of their appearances, their world, to see the brutal truth of what these beings called reality. The Duel Monster Spirit World is just as much a mystical land as it is a war-like one. I berated myself for thinking it was going to be rainbows and unicorns and that my role as Master was going to be this fluffy ideal notion of greatness.
I was seeing that glass pane shatter from the hammer of their ferocity. Von stood close as the Elites peppered on the dance floor assembled together at the foot of the dais steps. Razel approached and the magicians parted to let him through. I felt a sharp pang seeing him there tall and threatening with his fellow Elites. Abraxis's words haunted me that Razel might return to their world where he rightfully belonged and my fists clenched tightly, drawing blood. Von acutely sensed my fears but before he could offer comfort, Razel looked at me and spoke in a clear, authoritative voice.
"My Lady and Mistress, you are a guest here tonight. Yet you are also a Master and Psychic Duelist to the Spellcaster Race. During times of war and strife your presence is required to act as a guiding force to those under you and your allies. A place at this dais is yours by divine right. Come here and claim it!"
All eyes were on me with the weight of mountains of lead. Abraxis watched with those haunting green eyes. As much as I hated that my heart was a viscous puddle of mush, he was right. I had an obligation to uphold as Master and future Master of Magicians. It was my time. I had to stand up there and play the part. I made a vow to protect those who came to me, I who had no experience with anything like this. Bated breath stifled me as I stood there contemplating my future and what my next moves would mean for me and this world of magic. If I proceeded, there was no going back; no Master's degree, no sleeping in, no shleping around the city, no more normal life. I watched pitifully as my dreams of my future faded away like vapor—who I was, gone like a bad dream. In my heart I knew that I had to grow up and become the Master, the Leader, the ruler I was born to be. My future was right in front of me and I was powerless to stop it. I was so engrossed in my thoughts that I did not feel my feet bringing me from my place in the crowd to where the Elites stood battle ready. Riotous cheers stormed the hall as I went past Razel, Torunka, Silan and Darius and the others to stand firmly and decisively next to Abraxis. Through our connection Razel's outstanding pride in me wrapped me up like a cashmere blanket and my previous misconceptions about him washed away.
"Lord Razel and the other Elites are correct! We must not let these Warriors gain the upper hand. This attack proves the weakness of the Warrior Race! Such a dishonorable enemy should be dealt with swiftly and harshly. Give them no quarter! I promised to protect those magicians with me, their friends, and the entire Spellcaster Race. The time has come for me to make good on that promise. I take my place beside Lord Abraxis, beside the Elites, and beside Razel! Fight for your Race! Fight for your Elites! Your allies! Your freedoms and fight with me! I will show no mercy to my enemies and I will destroy all those who harm us.
Will you fight with me? Will you guide me in your ways and open my eyes to your world? Will you support my claim to be Master of Magicians and help me create a safer world for you and your loved ones? Help me take down your enemies! Help me exact revenge against those who have caused you pain and suffering! The Warriors may think they will win this fight, but they have not seen the full might of the Spellcasters and they have not seen what I am capable of! Together, we shall be victorious!" I shouted with all of my strength. I saw them all; my mages, Rai whose admission to the School of Magic would likely be postponed, Neo and Trance eager to cut down the elven brothers, Von who remained cold and stoic as though plotting his attacks with great care, and singular Mahad who stared at me in a mixture of silent approval, concern for his Master Yugi, and unwavering support. The thrill of arousing the magicians into battle was amazing and I could hear little else but the tidal wave of cheers.