Slowly opened his eyes, Yusaku awakened from his deep slumber. He thought everything was a dream till a great pain struck. Upon hearing his whines, Ai who was sleeping on the bedside table opened his eyes and casted a spell to help with his pain.

"Ai, what is going on?"

"You don't remember? We managed to return unharm, but that magician's attack came along. You were hit the second your foot touch the floor. There was...a lot of blood..." Tears filled his eyes.

"Sorry to worry you." He reached his wounded hand out, patting his friend's head softly. "At least, you're looking much better now."

His face had regenerated and his body had healed. However, he got much smaller.

"Of couse! I'm not that frag--What are you doing?"

"I'm going to find the prince and finish the job." The emerald eyes teen said as he slowly pushed himself up.

"What?! No! You need to rest! Not to mention, have you forgotten about that guy? The crest on his robe indicates he's the royal magician."

"So?"

"He is on a whole different level. After our little stunt, what makes you think he didn't cast a protection spell on the prince or guarding him day and night?"

"I don't. That why I just have to be careful and get out before he strikes."

"I can't believe this. Your brain must be damaged, or else you would be this dumb!" Ai said crossing his arms in front of his chest. "As long as I'm around, you aren't going anywhere!"

"Then, I guess I have no choice."

"What are you going to do? Casts a binding spell on me?"

"No, that won't work on you." He said while once again, reaching his hand out. "So I'm just gonna have you go back to dreamland for a little while."

Meanwhile, at the castle...

"You're finally awake." Said the grey haired teen as he closed the book he was reading. "How are you feeling?"

"Like I have been bitten by a wild animal." He let out a small laugh then froze when that person suddenly kneeled down. "Spectre?"

"Everything is my fault. I should have been here with you instead of..." He lowered his head even futher while bitting his life. "I'll accept any kind of punishment."

"What are you saying? I was the one who told you to go. We needed those herbs--Argh!"

"Your highness!"

"I'm fine... It just strings a little." Cold sweat ran down his cheek. "Those rare herbs, you didn't..."

"No, I figure you wouldn't be happy, so I gave them to the physician to patch up the injured."

"Good. They would be a waste on me anyway." He leaned his back against the headboard. "Was there any casualties?"

"No, your highness."

"What about the armory?"

"The finest builders are working on it as we speak. I also took the privilege of asking all the blacksmiths in the kingdom for help. The first cart of weapons should arrive tomorrow."

"Sounds like you got everything cover. Maybe you should quit being the royal magician and become the consultant."

"You platter me. I was just simply asking myself what you would do under the circumstances."

"You really are too humble some times."

"That reminds me. Princess Sophia was just here a moment ago."

"Who's that?"

"I believe she is the one you were with before everything went down. She was very worry about you."

"Is she alright?"

"Yes. She must be half way back to her kingdom by now."

"I see." Ryoken let out a relief sigh. "Did she say anything?"

"Not that I can recall."

"I didn't just sleep overnight, did I? I could tell from your expression."

"No, actually you have been unconscious for five days and four nights. But you still need to stay in bed and rest. Any sudden movement will cause your wounds to reopen."

"I don't think that's an option when there is someone out for my life."

"I have already casted a protection spell on the room. You should be safe here. And please do not worry, I'll personal take care of that assassin. He won't get away this time." His eyes were cold as ice. At that same moment, Ryoken felt a chill up his spines. "Please excuse me." He bowed and left, leaving the sound of door being closed echoed in the air. However, seconds later, the door was once again opened and the person who was supposed to be unable to move, vanished.