Digimon: Silver Star Story

Episode Twenty One: Demons in Vane

"…And then," Ginny said, almost to the point of babbling, the little creature she had found purring contently from her lap as she scratched it behind the ears, "Professor McGonagall went ahead and transfigured herself into a cat. She does this every year for the students, from what I'm told."

Matt chuckled. "So, she's a shape shifter?"

"No, she's an Animagus."
"An ani-what?"

Ginny smiled. "An Animagus. It's someone who has the ability to become a certain animal. Professor McGonagall, for starters, can transform into a cat."

Matt whistled. "Man, talk about interesting. I assume she doesn't cough up hairballs when she's human."

"I wouldn't know. I never had the thought of asking her that. Kind of frightened to, in fact."

"Well, it must give you and your friends…well, the friends in your world…something to think about."

As soon as those words were uttered, Matt would have given anything and everything to take them back. Almost immediately, Ginny's features darkened slightly, and her smile vanished. "Umm…Ginny?" he asked hesitantly. "Did I say something wrong?"

Ginny turned away, so her features were hidden from him. She didn't want him to see her like this, brooding over the past. "No, you didn't say anything wrong. It's just…I really don't allow people to get close to me. It's kind of a defense mechanism I developed from last year."

Now he was confused. They hadn't really talked about her first year at Hogwarts, simply because they hadn't known each other long enough to spill one another's darkest secrets. What had happened in her first year at Hogwarts was among those secrets. It was the one question he had been dying to ask, though. And it was obvious that this was something that was hurting her.

"Ginny, what happened in your first year?" he finally asked gently, deciding to take a chance. 'Probably this Tom Riddle guy. It sounds like she had a few problems with him.'

Ginny didn't turn around, though she wanted to. "I…" she hesitated. "I don't want to talk about it," she finally said. "It's too painful."

He scooted a little close, putting a hand on her shoulder. He could sympathize with her on that. Some of the decisions he had made in the Digital World were not ones he was very proud of. "Okay. Now, I'm not going to press," he said quietly, "but you can't keep it locked inside forever. Sooner or later, you going to have to talk to someone about it."

Ginny chuckled darkly, their little furry friend looking up with something approaching sympathy. "The last time I shared my feelings with someone, he ended up being someone else entirely. Someone…not entirely pleasant. So, I made a decision never to do that again."

'Mental note; if I ever meet this Tom Riddle, hurt him badly.' "And look where it got you," he retorted out loud. "Look, all I know about you is what you have told me, and vice versa. We both have stuff that we want to keep hidden. But the thing about keeping things hidden? Sooner or later, they come to light, and in a way we don't want them to." He snapped his fingers. "Tell you what. I'll tell you my deepest, darkest, secret, and you can tell me yours. Deal?"

Ginny turned around, ready to reply, when suddenly-

Matt, time to wake up.

She looked at Matt in confusion. "Friend of yours?" she inquired.

Matt sighed. He had lost the chance to learn more about her, and all because it was morning. "Luna. The human one," he replied, rubbing his head irritably. "She's Alex's girlfriend to be."

"Ah." Ginny suddenly stretched. "Looks like I'm going to wake up, too. Meaning Hemione will be right outside" She smiled apologetically. "Guess we're going to have to finish this conversation tomorrow night."

"Guess so," Matt replied, disappointed as always. So close, and yet so far. He didn't understand why he felt this way, only that he did. "Well, see ya tonight."

"You too. Bye."

Realm 3, Hogwarts

Hermione Granger, the cleverest witch of the age and Third Year at Hogwarts, waited patiently at the door to the second year's sleeping quarters as the other occupants filed out, waiting for Ginny to get out of bed. She had done this every day without fail, and with the same cheery expression on her face.

It hadn't helped in the slightest, but she was nothing if not persistent. Just ask Harry and Ron about how persistent she could be. She just wanted to make sure that the youngest Weasley remembered that she had friends to support her.

The door cracked open slightly, and a red head of hair popped out of the room. Their eyes locked. "Hermione, no," Ginny stated immediately, knowing what the bushy haired girl was going to say.

Hermione smiled brightly. "Oh, come on, Ginny!" she said. "It's a beautiful day, and I know for a fact that you love sunny days. Besides, I thought you'd like to study with us."

"No studying!" Ron Weasley's voice immediately sounded off at the bottom of the steps. "It's a bloody Saturday! Ginny, we need a Chaser for Quidditch!"

Ginny sighed, waiting patiently as Hermione tossed an exasperated glare down the stair well. It was well known that Ron was as subtle as a rampaging bull when it came to feelings, even his own. "It was a beautiful day when I got that blasted diary," she reminded the third year softly once her attention was back on the redhead. "And I'd rather be left alone." She held up a hand to stave off any argument the third year had at her disposal. "I appreciate what you're trying to do. Really, I do. I'm…just not-"

"-in the mood," Hermione finished for her, her expression faltering. "Well, I had to try. And you know I'm going to keep on trying."

Ginny simply nodded, then closed the door without another word.

Deflating, Hermione turned and headed down the stairs into the common room, shaking her head. "She's a Weasley, all right," she muttered. "Stubborn to the end."

Harry Potter, the Boy-Who-Lived, sighed. He had no idea what Ginny had gone through, but he had seen the end results for himself. He doubted he would have been able to forgive himself if it had happened to him. "Professor McGonagall said to keep trying," he reminded her.

"So did Mum," Ron said, rubbing his eyes wearily. "It hasn't helped. Fred and George are going to be disappointed. They really wanted her to help them with their little 'project.'"

Hermione huffed, sitting down next to Harry. "Their idea is to do something in Hogsmeade that could get them all in terrible trouble. I think they need to apply themselves on more serious endeavors than pranks."

"Right now," Harry said quietly, "their pranks may be the only thing that can help Ginny out of her funk. Because being there for her sure isn't helping." He got up. "Hey Hermione, can we talk?"

"Why just Hermione? Why not me?" Ron asked, confused.

"Because this is just between us. Luckily for you, you can sleep through just about anything."

"Ah… okay." He didn't really understand what that meant. What did sleep have to with them having a conversation? Shrugging, he went back to his Quidditch reading.

Harry and Hermione stepped over to the side, out of his hearing. "How are you feeling?" Harry immediately asked quietly.

"Tired," Hermione replied, seeing no reason to hide it from him at all. She knew that for two reasons.

One: he had figured out how she was getting to all of her courses within the first week of school, and promised to keep it secret from everyone else. Two: He was suffering from the same problem.

At least, that was what they told themselves and others. The truth was something neither really knew… and really didn't want to know.

Hermione sighed. "Have you been having those dreams again?" she asked quietly.

Harry nodded. "They're becoming more frequent, and more diverse. This time, I'm seeing a whole lot of zombies and a wall of ice. What about you?"

"Dragons, demons, and armies that look like Romans and Vikings fighting." She looked at him. "I saw you there too… and that woman with dark hair."

"...I saw you in my dream too… and that woman with dark hair. Did you get a name?"

"No."

Harry sighed. They were different dreams, but nonetheless had a few consistencies. They were both in them, and a strange woman was there as well. Every single night, they dreamed. The settings and people varied, but that woman and the two of them were always there.

He focused his gaze at Ron, who was blissfully unaware of their troubles, but was probably more concerned for his sister than he was showing. He could be dense, but he wasn't oblivious. "Do you think we should tell him?" he asked after a moment.

"With Ginny, the dementors and Sirius Black to deal with? Not to mention the whole Buckbeak debacle from last week?" Hermione shook her head. "No. Right now, he needs to be focused on his sister and classes." She took notice of his gaze, understanding what it meant. "I promise that if it begins to interfere with our lives, we'll tell him. But I don't him to worry about us on top of everything else."

"… … All right, we won't tell him yet. ...Are you still writing in your journal?"

"Definitely."

"So am I." Harry suddenly smiled. "I think we need to table this conversation for now, because…"

"Oi, you two! If you two are done, let's go get some breakfast! I'm starving!"

Hermione smirked at that predictable statement. "Of course you are, Ron. We can practically hear your stomach growling from here!"

The three of them laughed at that, Ron not even denying it, and their concerns fell away. They were once again just three students living their lives, not worrying about the world outside of the school.

None of them suspected that it would be the last time they would feel that way.

Ω

Realm 13000, Lunar

Three days.

It had been about three days since they had left Dibella's Temple, spent the night at the Nanza Barrier, and the Alliance had finally returned to Althena's Shrine. It was amazing how much one could learn in three days, what visions they could have.

Phacia was just happy to see the Shrine again. Ever since she had arrived here, she had come to find this place to be somewhere she could think and reflect. And she had a lot of reflecting to do here.

Jessica sighed as she took notice of the Priest waiting at the door, his gaze very severe. "Look who it is," she sadly murmured.

"Well, you did skip class for over a week," Phacia replied, smirking lightly. "Teachers tend to frown upon that, I hear."

"Yeah… ten silver says his first words are, 'Why must you give me wrinkles, Jessica?'"

Sure enough, the words that came out of his mouth were, "Why must you give me wrinkles, Jessica?" prompting some of her companions to cover their mouths in an effort to hide their smiles.

Jessica sighed. "Sir, I checked out a potential 'Dragonmaster' in Lann," she replied patiently. "I told you this before I left."

"Yes, you did. And I had forbade you from doing just that, allowing for others to handle the situation! People who had completed their training, and possessed the knowledge to determine the truth… without bashing heads in."

Mimi lifted a finger. "She didn't bash any heads in. I beat him in a fight. My friends killed his giant frog thingy. He gave up and left."

The priest blinked for a second at that, before turning back to Jessica. "So he was fake?" he asked, his early ire forgotten.

Jessica barely managed to not roll her eyes. "He was fake," she replied. "Then we all checked out the ruins north of the village, and came back with some scrolls." She held the bag up. "Is this enough to earn me extra credit?"

Phacia laughed as the priest rolled his eyes at that. "Cut her some slack, Joe," she said. "At least she was actually being productive. And the scrolls in that bag have highly advanced healing spells that are not in use with the Order. I think she has earned that credit, don't you?"

The priest took one of the scrolls out, unrolled it, read it, and nodded. "All right, you're off the hook this time, Jessica," he finally replied. "Thank the Goddess the High Priestess is here to back you up. Now, get to class before I decide to put you on toiletry duty."

Jessica handed the bag over to Phacia before immediately bolting into the Shrine, the priest following behind, grumbling to himself.

Phacia shook her head in amusement at the last few moments, before turning back toward the Alliance. "It may not take a lot of time to reach the Transmission Spring, but perhaps you would like to stay for the night. We've been walking for quite a few days, and I think some good meals and a good night's sleep would be a wonderful idea."

Serena, Tai, and Alex looked at one another. Not a word needed to be spoken. They all nodded, a collective sigh of relief coming from everyone.

"Excellent. Serena, I do believe that the chambers you were using are still yours, so you should be able to settle back in just fine."

Serena smiled at that. "Come on Darien, let me show you where I was sleeping." She pulled her boyfriend away, ignoring the snickering from their friends, all of them thinking that she wanted to show him more than just her room.

Both Rini and Amy rolled their eyes at this. Not because they thought everyone else was wrong, but because they knew everyone was right.

"Good to know that they won't change at all after having you," Amy whispered to Rini.

Rini giggled. "You don't either," she replied just as quietly.

"Excellent."

Ω

Phacia sighed as she finally sat down at her desk, appreciating the soft cushion of her chair. She didn't really do that much adventuring, as her duties here and to her people kept her in one place, but she did like going out to see the world. She could understand why Jessica wanted to do that all the time. It was… invigorating, learning something new, even if the discovery isn't a good one.

It also made her appreciate the cushions and mattress of her room all the more.

She took a look at her desk then, at the pile of parchments that were there, and groaned. Here was something she hadn't missed; the paperwork. And it looked like the one she had left in charge had only done the bare minimum. 'When I reveal my deception to Lunar, I hope the Shrine elects a more competent person to lead them.'

Sighing once again, she picked up her quill, ink blot, and the paperwork, and headed out once again, going to the library. She found the library to be a better place to work when dealing with the usual mundane stuff.

Making her way over to a table near the back, she sat down, pulling the first parchment off the pile and unrolling it, she began the tedious process of signing off on acquisition forms.

She didn't know how long she had been sitting there, entering a sort of auto pilot mode, signing parchment after parchment, but the cramping of her wrist finally brought her out of it. Putting the quill down, she began shaking her wrist, trying to get movement back into it. "Just added five minutes to this," she grumbled.

"Well, you should always take a break, just so you still have a hand," a familiar voice replied from in front of her. Looking up, she saw Lilika standing there, smiling lightly. "In fact, I believe that it is required."

Chuckling, Phacia leaned back. "I know. I just hate paperwork, especially when I leave for a short time. My assistant seemed to only do the bare minimum."

Lilika nodded, knowing what she meant. "My foster mother's assistant used to be the same way. If she was left in charge, she only took care of the basic needs to keep the shop going. Once Mother got back, I could hear the grumbling all the way from my room as she made her way through the back log."

"Hmm… I really shouldn't complain, then. I don't get that much." Phacia sighed, getting ready to pick up where she left off. "What brings you to the library, Lilika? I figured that you would want to take a nap."

"I'm a lot hardier than most. Also, it's been three hours."

"...Oh dear." Paperwork just became even more of a nuisance. Now she really wanted to have words with her assistant concerning this. "Know any good stories?" she asked, now desperate to avoid the rest of the pile.

Lilika smiled. "Well..."

Ω

Mimi let out a sigh of relief as she plopped down on her bed, enjoying the feeling of a soft mattress. She would never take a bed for granted ever again, especially after all of the nights spent sleeping either on a thin bed roll or the ground.

Palmon giggled at the blissful of her human partner. "Mimi, are you sure you don't want to just stay here?" she asked. That way, you can simply moan in joy all the time."

"Ha, ha. Unlike everyone else, I truly appreciate the softer things in life… like an actual bed. I also do enjoy looking pretty, as much as I enjoy beating the bad guys and learning new things." Mimi sat up, looking around. "I'm actually surprised that I haven't heard anything from the rest of hem… save for Serena and Darien."

"You can hear that? They're about six rooms down."

"Only slightly. The closer they are, the better I can hear them. I'm not Superman."

"What are they saying?"

Mimi shook her head. "I might enjoy gossip as much as the next girl, but I'm not going to eavesdrop on them. Also… I can hear them, but not that good. They're just close enough so I'm aware of them."

"Oh." Palmon sat down, smiling. "Okay, here's a question that you can try and answer. How are you so strong?"

"I have no idea. Just like why I can use magic… or why Tai, myself and Izzy suddenly grew by a few years. All I know is that my Mom was just as strong, but she always told me to keep that strength hidden. I can understand why, since the government was eyeing the Sailor Scouts all the time. If they heard anything about a kid lifting up cars, then they probably would have shown up and kidnapped me."

"Your mom was that strong, too?"

"Yes." Mimi smiled. "She would never tell me why, and Dad backed her up on that. But they were pretty good story tellers, so I just dropped it after a while."

"Story tellers?" Palmon was intrigued by this. She laced her vines together, leaning forward. "Can you tell me a story?"

Mimi thought about it for a second. "Sure," she finally replied. "I'll tell you my favorite story in fact." She took a breath. "Once upon a time, there were two kingdoms locked in war. One kingdom was a land of great beauty and prosperity, living in the light. The other; always struggling to survive with the limited resources they had and forever shadowed by darkness. Hatred ran deep between them.

"Then one day, the Queen of the Shadow Kingdom stepped forward, wishing to forge a truce between them. The Goddess of the Light, who had hoping to end the war, agreed, and they decided to meet at the border.

"Unfortunately, one of the daughters of the Queen was against this. Her hatred had poisoned her, blinded her to the advantages of peace. So, before the Queen could start on her journey, she was forcibly removed from the throne, and executed as a traitor. Another daughter rose up to oppose her, but was forced to flee."

"Where did she go?" Palmon asked.

"To the only place she could; to the Kingdom of Light. She warned the Goddess of what had happened, and was welcomed as a result." Mimi smiled. "She would eventually fall in love with an adventurer, and stop her sister from destroying the Kingdom of Light." She sighed. "I don't really have Mom's storytelling ability."

"Well… it could have been better. But it could also be worse… … Did they have a happy ending?"

Mimi grinned. "Of course they did. They married, had a family and lived happily ever after." Her good mood dimmed a little as she thought for a second. "You know, whenever my Mom told me that story, she always seemed a little sad. Like she was talking about a real life event. Sometimes, I think she wishes that it was real."

"Well, if I ever see your mom again, I'll ask her to tell me the whole story. Who knows, maybe I'll be thoroughly enraptured by it."

"Good idea. Just… don't mention my poor effort please?"

"I promise that I won't."

Ω

Phacia exhaled as Lilika finally finished her story, feeling that she had run a marathon. Lilika certainly knew how to tell a story. "You know, if being a mage of the Guild doesn't work out, you could always become a traveling storyteller. You have a gift."

Lilika shrugged modestly, a slight blush on her face. "It was something I read in an old journal I found," she admitted. "I never get tired of it, just because of how well it's written."

"...Do you have the journal, still?" Phacia asked, trying desperately not to sound nervous.

"Well, yes. I carry it with me everywhere."

"Is it alright if I borrow it for the night? I would like to read the rest of it."

Lilika frowned for a second, before nodding, seeing no problem. "Okay." She quickly picked up her bag, pulling out a well worn journal and handing it to her.

Phacia barely managed to stop herself from paling as she held it in her hand. She did recognize it. But she didn't think it was possible. How did it survive all of this time?! And how did it make it into this young woman's hands? "Thank you," was all she said, maintaining her calm persona.

Lilika let out a slight yawn, before rising. "Well, I think I shall head off to bed. We will be heading out tomorrow morning after breakfast. Good night."

"Good night." Phacia watched as the young woman headed out, before gathering up all of the paperwork and heading back to her quarters. She had the most distinct feeling that she wasn't going to be getting a lot of sleep tonight.

Then again, she wouldn't get another chance like this. After all, it wasn't every day that one would have their missing sister's journal.

Realm 3, Hogwarts

Harry sighed as he laid back, looking at the ceiling of his bed. Another day done, another day without answers.

Another day of hoping that both he and Hermione would enjoy an actual good night's sleep this time

All around him, he could hear the rest of his dorm mates as they slept, identifying each one by the breathing patterns. Neville was a quiet sleeper, his breaths almost soundless. Dean was a bit deeper. Seamus was as boisterous in sleep as he was awake. And Ron… the term 'sawing logs' didn't do it justice. How any of them slept from that was beyond him.

Sighing as a wave of exhaustion went through him, he finally let himself drift into sleep, hopefully to good dreams…

Only to suddenly be jolted awake when he felt something suddenly press into his side. Only the mane of bushy hair that he saw when he turned his head kept him from letting out a no doubt very bad expletive. "Hermione?" he whispered, wondering if he was dreaming at this moment.

Hermione looked at him for a second, shrugging apologetically. "Sorry," she whispered. "I probably should have asked first."

"Yes… probably. But, when the others wake, they'll probably wonder why you're in bed with me."

"Honestly, Harry. Silencing and Privacy charms." She demonstrated by making curtains fall closed around them, muttering, "Silencio," before laying her head back down on his pillow.

Harry sighed, laying back down as well. "Just so we're clear; I'm blaming you," he murmured, though he wasn't really being serious about that.

Hermione smiled in return. "Not a problem," she replied sleepily. "I blame you for so much already… like being you."

"Huh?" he wanted to ask her what she meant by that, only to see that she had already nodded off. Deciding that it wasn't important, he followed suit, consciousness fading away once again.

However, if they thought that being together would stave off their dreams, then hope truly did spring eternal.

Lunar

The next day, the Alliance was trotting up to the Vane Transmission Spring, all relieved to be back here. Nash had been speaking for the last half hour, extolling the virtues of Vane… which was really starting to drive them crazy.

"…And the Silver Spire is supposed to decked with pure diamonds!" Nash explained, almost cheerfully oblivious to the looks of discomfort that the others were sporting. "After all, nothing's too good for Vane!"

Alex sighed. "Wouldn't surprise me in the least."

Agumon turned to look at the magician. "Nothing's too good for Vane?" he asked. "So, what does that make you? The class clown?"
"Wouldn't surprise me in the least," Greg mock whispered to T.K. T.K. stifled a laugh as Nash gave Agumon a pretty lethal glare.

Patamon flew up to the guard. "Hi!" he said with real enthusiasm, and not without a measure of relief, too. "Remember us?"

The guard grinned in understanding. "It's kind of difficult to forget the only sentient monsters I have ever met." He gestured towards the Transmission Spring. "And this time, I won't stop you from using the Spring."

"Great!" Nall exclaimed. "This guy is pretty neat!"

Nash had to smile as well at the flying fur ball's exuberant behavior. "Well, I must say that it has been a privilege to be in such excellent company…and you, Agumon as well," he added.

Agumon sighed. "Likewise," he grudgingly admitted. "Likewise, Nash." And, in small groups, after securing their horses at the stables, the Alliance teleported up to Vane. No Trial this time, and no giant Mushmare.

Nash shook Alex's and Tai's hands, then kissed the knuckle of Serena's hand. "I have to hurry to the Guild. Ghaleon will be wanting a full report on the mission." He looked at the sun. "Why don't you all meet me there after you've had a chance to look around the city?"

Greg grinned. "I like the sound of that," he said. "Unless the leaders have a different plan in mind."

Serena shook her head. "I'm spending some time with Darien…alone, I might add, so the Scouts and Rini can have some fun."

"And I'm going to keep reading this book." Tai held up the object in question. "So the Digi-Destined can do whatever the hell they want."

Alex shrugged. "The Six, myself, and Luna Two are going to the library to look up anything on the Guardians of Althena, seeing as how your briefing is probably going to take a while."

Greg shrugged. "I guess the leaders have spoken."

"Too true." Nash looked up into the sky again. "Let's say we meet in the Guild in about…one hour sounds good to you all?" Everyone nodded. "Okay, then. Until then." He turned, and headed for the Guild building.

Nall landed on Alex's shoulder. "Let's get going, Alex!" he exclaimed, pointing towards the library.

Alex groaned. It was like the white fur ball was a curse sometimes. Where did he get this endless reserve of energy. "I can't get rid of you!"
"Nope!"

T.K. chuckled, before extending his hand to Kari. "You ready to go?" he asked.

Kari blushed. "Yep."

Ω

Mimi waved goodbye to Palmon and Tentomon, before looking to Izzy. "So, Izzy," she began, a mischievous glint in her eyes, "I was wondering if you had any ideas as to where we can go for our date."

Izzy blinked, a little thrown off by the abrupt conversation starter, not to mention a little fearful. Because, in all honesty, he hadn't really given it any thought. "Uh… well…" he started, trying to find a way to placate his very new girlfriend.

Said girlfriend started laughing, letting him off the hook. "Relax, Izzy. I'm just messing with you. I'm not really expecting anything… yet. I'm just happy to be with you in a more than friendly manner." She gave him a peck on the cheek. "Besides, when we do have a date, we can also finish what we started at the lake," she whispered in his ear.

"Well… I'm a computer geek, but I definitely can go with that."

"Uh, Mimi?"

Startled, the two broke apart, both looking at Lilika who, through possible some strange magic, managed to sneak up on them. "Hi, Lilika," Mimi greeted, eyes wide. "Is there something you need?"

Lilika fidgeted for a second, blushing lightly. "Is it all right I talk to you, alone?" she finally asked. "It's personal."

"...Sure." She looked at Izzy. "I'll see you later, Izzy."

Izzy nodded, returning the smile. "See you later, Mimi. Lilika."

About four minutes later, Lilika and Mimi were wandering the streets of Vane, stopping at the entrance of the small Nymph forest. No one was nearby, meaning that the laws of entry were enforced… which Lilika thought was pretty sad. If the Elder Nymph at Dibella's Shrine was of any indication, then they were a pretty nice group.

"So," Mimi began, "what's up?"

Lilika sighed. "Well, while we were at Althena's Shrine, I talked to Phacia, and she wanted to see my mother's journal. This morning, she returned it, and asked me two simple questions."

"What?"

"Did I know if my mother was still alive, and was it possible that I had a sister."

Mimi blinked for a moment, then nodded. "You know, that makes sense," she noted.

"It was how she said that got my attention. She sounded… wistful when she asked, almost hopeful." Lilika sighed. "I had no answer to give her, and she looked crestfallen." Her gaze shifted. "It seemed almost... personal for her."

Mimi frowned thoughtfully at that. "Maybe she knew your mother when they were younger. I mean, I'm not very good at deducing Lunarian age, but I get the feeling that Phacia is pushing about forty. She could have met her when they were both fifteen."

"Well, from what my adoptive mother told me, Mother played an active role in the final days of the Heresy War. If Phacia had been a part of the Order back then, they probably did meet at some point." She sighed. "But I was also always told that Mother had died after giving birth to me."

"… May I see this journal?" Mimi asked after a moment. "Call me crazy, but maybe there's something there she saw that made her hope that she was alive." She saw the other girl's hesitation, and grinned. "I could act like an annoying sister and steal it from your bag when you're not looking, if you want."

Lilika narrowed her eyes at her. "You act like that already. You do not require my permission for that." She sighed. "Oh very well," she finally agreed, pulling the journal out. "I just want it back. It's all I have of her."

"Don't worry. This won't take long." She opened the book, read the very first sentence, and paled in shock almost instantly. "This is impossible," she whispered, as she continued reading.

"Mimi? ...What is it?"

Mimi looked up, her eyes wide. "Nothing, I hope. It's just… … my mom always told me stories about kingdoms at war, goddesses and demons. And what I'm seeing here… … … it's almost word for the word one of those stories." Her gaze was pensive. "It's a bit of a shock, really."

Lilika nodded, understanding where she was coming from. "I guess stories can be the same in multiple dimensions, without differences."

"I guess so…" She handed the book back. "Later… we should go through the journal, and see what other stories are similar. But let's talk about something else."

"Good idea." Lilika suddenly smirked. "So, how are things with Izzy?"

Mimi felt her cheek heat up. "Ah..."

Ω

"The Guardians of Althena were, quite obviously, the last and most powerful line of defense for the Goddess herself," Alex recited, reading out of 'Vane: A History of Magic.' "They were just as powerful as her, capable of doing things that would be considered impossible for even the most powerful mages. In fact, due to their power, they were the only ones who didn't pay homage to the creator of our world." He shut the book. "Well, wasn't that a waste of time?"

Mercury looked over another book, before setting it aside. "It does coincide with what we've seen in our visions so far. Powerful, but not gods themselves."

Patamon looked over another one. "This one speaks of how the Guardian of Hope saved a city, defeating an entire army of demons with a single slash of his sword. I'm betting that they aren't exaggerating there."

T.K. whistled. "If one could do that, it makes you wonder what all six of them could do together."

"Probably everything except help a teething two year old, but that's another matter. But none of these books explain what happened to them."

"Too much information on their accomplishments, not enough on them!" Greg slammed another book shut in frustration. "Some things never change, regardless of whatever realm you're in."

Patamon leafed through a book, stopping on one section in particular. "Hey, guys. Take a look at this."

As one, the remaining Five, Alex, and Luna all herded around him, reading what he had found. Alex was the one who whistled this time around. "I had no idea that Takeru once donated to a traveling caravan of gypsies," he said. "How did he manage to donate to a traveling caravan?"

"He volunteered his services to them during the Heresy War," T.K. replied. "Then he gave them enough money to last a full year."

"Lemme guess?" Gatomon said. "A vision?"

"Yep. I had it last night."

"Explains a lot," Greg said, putting another book on its shelf. "Enjoyable."

Amy gave him a quick peck on the cheek. "You'd make an excellent librarian."

"Like Ryo?"

"Yes, though probably sexier."

The other's started chuckling slightly. "Sailor Mercury, flirting?" Luna had to comment upon.

Gatomon jabbed a fist in the air. "Victory!"

The librarian's head snapped in their direction immediately. "Silence!" he hissed. "People are trying to read here!"

The group winced. "Sorry," Patamon said for all of them. "Guess we got carried away."

Greg nodded, then looked at his watch. "Crap!" he swore, quietly. "We're about five minutes late to meet Nash at the Guild!"
Scrambling, the lot of them hurried out of the library.

Ω

Outside the Grand Hall, the rest of the Alliance waited impatiently for the others to join them. As they had been waiting for almost twenty minutes.

"Where are they?" Serena finally asked, her foot tapping in irritation.

(Does her voice always get that high-pitched?) Ginny asked. It was dinnertime in her reality, so she could 'talk' freely with Matt.

Matt sighed internally. (You think this is bad? Listen to her when she goes one on one with Rei. I'm surprised Mercury hasn't gone mad.)

Pluto looked behind her. "Here they come," she said.

To bear weight to her statement, Alex and his group stopped in front of them, panting. "Sorry…guys. We lost track… of time."

Gomamon smiled. "So did Tai…and Sora..."

"…And Joe and Gomamon!" Sora added exasperatedly. "Gomamon, we get it. We were almost late." She looked around. "Where's Mimi and Lilika?"

Jupiter shrugged, but before she could reply, the doors to the Hall opened, and Nash walked out, grinning broadly. "Lemia is waiting for you all." He looked around. "Where's Rini? Or Mimi and Lilika?" he asked.

Pluto sighed. "I'll go look for them. They probably lost track of time exploring."

Serena grinned. "If Rini's gone into hiding, you'll have your work cut out for you."

"Don't remind me."

Izzy sighed. "I'll go look for Mimi and Lilika," he said. "Lilika had wanted to talk about something, so they'll probably still be together."

"I'll come with you," Joe piped in. "I can't stand being auditoriums. And no, Gomamon, you can stay right here. I don't think we need to worry about fighting bad guys here."

Pluto bowed to Nash. "Please give our regards to Lady Ausa. We would have very much wanted to meet her." The three walked out of the Guild, looking around.

T.K. shrugged, while a sudden feel of tension beginning to coil in his gut. "So Lemia wants to meet us?" he asked. "Where?"

Nash pointed in the direction of the room behind him. "Just wait for her at the end of the Great Hall," he replied. "And remember, you must be on your best behavior. See you all later." He turned and walked away, knowing that something would happen that the Magic Guild would never forget.

Nall turned around, looking at the others. "Do you think she's going to give us a reward?" he asked. "And could I trade it in for fish?"

Luna sighed. "Seriously, can you stop thinking about fish for at least one minute? We're about to meet one of the Four Heroes, and you're worried about your stomach."

T.K. move forward, just to stop the argument that was brewing from really getting started. "And we're walking," he said, getting their attention.

They entered the Grand Hall, many of them talking among themselves. Upon entering, though, they quieted down, taking the time to look around.

Patamon observed everything around him. A number of mages, all of them a part of the upper hierarchy of the Guild, were milling about, talking quietly to one another. The hall itself was decorated with purple curtains, all of them with the symbol of Vane, a lion and a griffin locked in combat, all that hung from the walls. And golden mantelpieces were set in a systematic pattern around the room, giving off a feeling of ordered beauty.

All Gatomon noticed, however, was the fact that Nall was smiling for no apparent reason. "What?" she asked.

Nall pointed. "Mia Ausa is here." He looked at the Six. "Come on, I'll introduce you to her."

Alex looked around, spotting Ghaleon among the throng. "You guys go ahead, and say hi to Mia for me," he said. "I'm going to have a word Ghaleon about something."

"Go right ahead," Amy replied, before turning to Nall. "Lead the way."

Ω

Mia smiled. "Thank you. I'm sure my mother will enjoy the suggestion."

The mage bowed. "My thanks, Lady Ausa, for speaking with me." He turned around, and headed over to another mage, talking to him.

The young woman sighed as she looked around, observing the others around her. It was bad when the mages came to her with their ideas, and not her mother. It meant that their faith in her was beginning to waver. And, if she admitted it to herself, her own faith was beginning to falter as well.

"Mia?"
The raven haired girl turned around in surprise… and her smile became genuine as she took in a familiar face. "Nall, it is so good to see you!" she said in greeting, giving him a good scrach under the chin. "And who are they?"

The little flying creature quickly made introductions. Mia welcomed them to Vane, asking about Alex and Nall. Amy and Luna told her of their adventures.

T.K. grinned. Nall was right; Mia was a very nice girl.

"…and then Mimi bashed him!" Nall finished excitedly. "I woulda done it myself, but I like my wings where they are!"
Mia giggled. I'm sure it was an adventure that was exciting to be on."

"Oh, it was," Patamon replied. "That's why it's called an adventure. So, what's going on? Nash said something about Lemia calling a meeting."

At this, Mia's face fell, her earlier mood reasserting itself. "My mother called a meeting here, though I don't know why." She looked at them sadly. "I'm sorry it's so sudden, but she seems to hold every meeting like this lately. No one knows why."

"She has?" Amy frowned thoughtfully. Something wasn't right here. Everything she had learned about the Ausa's was that they preferred private, informal gatherings to large crowds. "That's doesn't sound like the Lemia Ausa read up about. A formal gathering was only called if there was trial."

Kari frowned, the bad feeling increasing. She shared Amy's assessment of the situation. It certainly opposite of everything she had seen in her visions as of late. 'Something's definitely wrong…'

Ω

"Master Ghaleon?"

Ghaleon turned around in surprise, not expecting anyone else to speak with him until after the meeting. "Ah, Alex," he said in greeting, shaking Alex's hand. "Nash gave me a full report of what happened in Lann." He smiled slightly. "There is great power in you, boy… as much power as Dyne possessed in his prime."

Alex smiled as well, pleased. "Thank you, sir." He looked around. "So, any idea what this is about?" he asked. "Because I'm kind of clueless in this case."

Ghaleon sighed. "I would gladly tell you the purpose of this meeting if I had known anything about it. Alas, Lady Ausa seems to prefer consulting her fortune teller to consulting me these days, I'm afraid."

"Yes, so Tai has informed us." Alex sidled up to him. "You know, I have some friends who can see to it that she's never heard from again," he whispered.

Ghaleon's small smile grew at this suggestion. "Oh, if everything could be dealt with Master Mel's straightforward manner, then all would be right with the world. However, Lady Ausa would have whoever touched Royce executed."

"Yeah, I thought there was a gray area there." Suddenly, the aspiring Dragonmaster asked, "Doesn't it seem odd that the second Royce appears, Lady Ausa suddenly starts acting like she has PMS? And this has been going on for…?"

"Four months," Ghaleon replied, then he realized what Alex was getting at. "You think…?"His voice faded when a series of horns sounded off, ending all conversation in the hall. "They're announcing the arrival of Lemia. You and her friends, take your places…quickly."

Alex quickly moved into an empty spot as the Six joined him. Across the room, he saw Luna staring at him. She gave him an encouraging smile.

The rest of them were standing to either side of the podium, giving him a thumbs up or other shows of encouragement. He saw that Pluto hadn't returned yet with the others, but decided that they would probably have another chance to meet the Head of the Guild. 'Besides, if something terrible happens, they'll be in a better position to do something about than us.'

Tearing his thoughts away from that, he turned his head in the direction of the Grand Hall entrance, trying to catch a glimpse of the formidable head of the Magic Guild as she approached. And, lo and behold, he did.

It was easy to see where Mia got her beauty from. Lemia, who was now forty, still possessed the body of a woman half her age. Her blond hair showed no silver, her face was free of wrinkles, and her body, though hidden by her bulky guild robes, was still toned, like she was still adventuring. Her eyes held an intensity that age could never take away. And she radiated power in a way like Ghaleon, though to a somewhat lesser degree.

T.K., amazed by the way Lemia comported herself, felt that feeling intensifying to a whole new level. 'Something's wrong…' he thought.

Realm 3, Hogwarts, Great Hall

Harry and Hermione both plopped down in their traditional seats, both of them yawning loudly. Despite the coffee that was before them, neither one accepted any. They had already had their daily allotment, and didn't want to risk sleep deprivation. It was yet another night where they woe up in the middle of the night, though the silencing charms prevented the other boys from joining them, and asking questions.

And, despite their exhaustion,(and the fact that they had been in the same bed, which was a whole different can of worms that no one else needed to know about) neither really showed many signs of it. Harry credited his life at the Durselys. He was simply used to it.

As for Hermione… well, she was just that good of an actress. But the bags under her eyes were starting to become very visible. Eventually, the others would start asking questions. Rumors would start flying. And the two of them would face more scrutiny than Harry usually did in a year. At least they were able to get some sleep.

Hermione's attention slid over to where Ginny was sitting, apparently doing some studying from her DADA book. Her face had a small look of concentration on it as she jotted down some notes. 'At least she's being productive,' she thought, fingering the pendant that she kept hidden under her robes. 'If we don't get a full night's sleep, I'm going to have to return this, and drop a few classes.'

Ginny, for her part, was unaware of the scrutiny Hermione was giving her, and prepared to work on her charms homework. Homework kept her mind occupied, from remembering the Chamber of Secrets. However, it also had the unfortunate side effect of forcing her to cut off contact with Matt. She enjoyed their conversations concerning anything and everything they could think of.

Matt… that boy from another universe intrigued her in so many ways. He was the only person who could make her smile, and he had such an infectious charm… she almost sighed, but restrained herself. She didn't want to have to answer a million questions. Instead, she turned her attention back to…

"Step forth, Alex of Burg, and the leaders of those who journey beside him!"

Ginny's eyes widened in surprise, then narrowed. (Matt,) she began warningly.

(Sorry, Ginny. It's just that we're meeting Lemia Ausa herself.) Matt held a bit of excitement that was somewhat reminiscent of a kid in a candy store.

She was forced to smile. This was the reason why she enjoyed her conversations with the young man. She wouldn't see anything but the interior of the castle (Okay, is it alright if I share your eyes, then?) she asked. (I'm almost finished with my homework, and I want to see this Lemia.)

(Feel free. Just… don't blind me, okay?)

(I promise.) She closed her eyes, then opened them again. She almost blinked in surprise.

The Great Hall, with its entire body of students, was gone. In its place was a hall as grand, if smaller in design. Wizards, all wearing robes of a unique nature, were standing in a single file line, all staring at the front of the hall. Intrigued beyond measure, Ginny allowed Matt to look there as well.

(That's Lemia?) she asked.

(Not what you're expecting?) Matt inquired.

(Definitely not. Can I hear as well?)

(Definitely.)

Ω

Royce suddenly appeared from the shadows, as if she apparated in without anyone noticing, and stared at them for a few seconds before leaning in to whisper in Lemia's ear, caressing the other woman's shoulder. Lemia nodded slightly in understanding, before observing them for a moment in contemplation.

Greg glared at Royce. His sixth sense was starting to tingle very unpleasantly. 'I know you're up to something, Royce!' he sent. 'When I find out what it is, you'll wish you remained in whatever hell you crawled out of!'

'And you're about to see that the future is set in stone, Greg Urawa,' Royce returned with, smirking slightly. 'For I see your imminent defeat.'

Lemia took several steps forward, until she reached the base of the stage. Her gaze bore down upon them with incredible power. "I am Lemia Ausa, governess of the Magic Guild," she said, her voice holding the same level of intensity.

Alex bowed in respect. "I am Alex of Burg," he returned with, his own voice strong. "I have come to pay my respects to a member of the Four Heroes, and the leader of Vane."

Tai inclined his head. "I am Taichi Kamiya, leader of the Digi-Destined."

"I am Sailor Moon, leader of the Sailor Scouts," Serena put in, bowing as well.

'So far, so good,' Amy thought, though the feeling didn't dissipate. If anything, it was growing stronger. 'And where are the others? They should have been back by now.'

Lemia nodded once, accepting the praise. "I have heard that you seek the Dragons, and a way to return to your home realm. I see the strength of your regards in these matters in your eyes," she stated, smiling slightly.

Luna smiled slightly as well, though she was starting to become worried. A chill crawled up her spine as she observed the lack of warmth in this woman. 'The way Lemia is smiling…it's so cold.'

Lemia's eyes narrowed slightly. "And I sense something else… I sense… evil." She pointed a finger at Alex. "You all seek to destroy the Magic Guild, and Althena!" she bellowed.

For a moment, silence reigned in the Grand Hall.

Alex was struck dumb at the accusation. Never, in his entire life, had he been accused of trying to destroy Althena. It was unthinkable!

"You see?" Lemia continued on. "None of them say anything… because they cannot deny what they know to be true!"
The Alliance, to their credit, came out of their collective surprise rather quickly, and slowly started walking out, joining their friends in a show of support. "What are you talking about?!" Nall exclaimed, gathering his wits about him. "Mia, what's going on?!"
Mia stared in mute shock, her eyes speaking of fear for them. She couldn't answer, because she didn't know.

Ginny was absolutely perplexed. (Matt? I think you better get ready to fight. I don't think Lady Ausa is in a very charitable mood.)
(I think you're right, Ginny.) Ginny looked down as Matt put his hand near his sword. (On second thought, neither am I,) he added.

Tai stepped forward, no intimidation in his stance, and no fear for going toe to toe with one of the Four Heroes. "Look, Lady Ausa!" he snarled. "I don't know what Royce has told you, but Alex isn't here to destroy anything! I don't understand why you listen to that seering piece of crap anyways!" He took great delight in watching the smirk disappearing from Royce's face.

Lemia was undeterred, though. Nor was she happy at the implied insult. "Guards!" she snapped. "Throw these urchins into the dungeon… and execute them in the morning for treason!" She paused for a moment "Keep the girl here for now. I have special plans for her!"

For some reason, the whole lot of them knew precisely which Lemia was talking about. And none of them were going to let her take her.

In an instant, the Six were surrounding Luna, weapons drawn. "Anyone who wants her has to go through us!" T.K. replied. The other five nodded in agreement.

Luna's eyes widened as the young boy said this. 'They're protecting me! They're protecting me like I was Althena!'

Racc stepped out from behind Royce. "I'll be delighted," he said, raising his hand.

Instantly, several fireballs erupted from it, striking them and throwing them away from Luna before they could even think of defending themselves. They hit the ground hard, skidding to a halt at the end of the Hall.

Tai and Matt turned as one, and without saying any words, charged forward, enraged.

Lemia simply raised a hand, and blasted Tai back, forcing him into a trio of guards. One of them disarmed him, throwing his blade one of the other guards.

Racc simply kicked Matt as he came in range, making the young man fly backwards across the Grand Hall of Vane…

Ω

Hermione blinked as Ginny seemed to suddenly stop moving, her eyes going out of focus as a slight smile began to form. She tapped Harry and Ron's shoulders, pointing over at the young girl. "Has that ever happened before at the Burrow?" she asked.

Ron shook his head. "No… no it hasn't. But hey, it's the first time in three months that she's smiled. I'll take it."

Harry frowned as a similar expression crossed Ginny's face. Exhaustion fled as a foreboding feeling began to percolate. "Uh… I think something's going to happen.

And, as if to lend credence to that statement, Ginny suddenly flew out of her seat like she had been hit by a summoning charm, slamming into Cho Chang's chair. The Ravenclaw forth year had just vacated the seat, and was able to get out of the way as the Gryffindor flew by, breaking the top portion of the chair off. She hit another chair from the Hubblepuff table as she slammed into the far wall, crying out in pain.

Ron, Hermione, and Harry were immediately heading in her direction as the whole school got up in surprise. The teachers, McGonagall and Dumbledore chief among them, started making their way over to her, wands out.

Ron got there first, and gently put his hand on his sister's shoulder. "Ginny?" he asked urgently. "Are you…?"

His words were cut off as his sister suddenly levitated, frantically scrambling as if she were trying to remove an invisible hand, then suddenly flew in circle, like she was a propeller blade. She went flying through the air yet again, hitting the doors with enough force to open them, and hit the stairs outside, tumbling down…

…as Matt hit the hallway outside, feeling every step Ginny hit like he was falling down them himself. His mind was too preoccupied with staying alive to force her out, so she didn't face the same beating.

Racc tromped on outside, his hand reaching out to grasp him by his throat, and lifting him up. "I should kill you right here and now, Digi-Destined," he whispered, his eyes flaring even more brightly. "Luckily for you, I won't." He brought his hand up, and slammed it down on the young man's head, knocking him out.

Harry and Hermione reached Ginny first, Harry's wand out and pointing at the redhead. For the life of him, though, he didn't know what he could do. Hermione's eyes spoke the same. They could already hear a few of the Teachers coming out, probably after telling the rest of the student body to stay in the Hall. The two of them had just reacted too fast, while Ron had been frozen in his seat, still trying to process.

And then Ginny began to levitate again. Unlike last time, this was far more conventional, simply rising off of the ground. A hum was beginning to emit, as energy began to form. Something was happening, something that was supposed to be impossible.

And both of them had the feeling that they had seen this before. Instinctively, they each grabbed her, trying to pull her away.

Dumbledore arrived, just in time to see a brilliant flash of light appear, encompassing the three students. He quickly shielded his eyes, because he would be of no use to them if he even temporarily blinded. Once the light vanished, he realized that he would've been of no help at all.

Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, and Ginevra Weasley, were no longer there. They were gone.

Ω

The Alliance, taken by surprise, was too slow to react. In the space of three minutes, the guards had caught them unawares, and had successfully managed to subdue them all. Greg managed to put up some resistance, but a well place blow by one of the guards put him out of commission. There was no chance.

"Alex!" Luna shouted, trying to get to Alex, who was currently being held by three guards. She made it several feet before a set of strong hands caught her. "Stop it! Let them go!"
Ghaleon didn't budge, his grip not relaxing one bit. "Screaming will achieve nothing," he said quietly. "Here, in Vane, Lemia Ausa's word is law."

"Don't waste your breath on that little waif, Ghaleon! Take her to the appointed area!" Lemia ordered.

"As you wish, Lemia."

"Luna!" Alex shouted, struggling even harder. For his efforts, one of the guards simply clubbed him in the head.

The last thing Alex saw was Luna being taken away, her tear filled eyes staring at him.

Then, darkness.

Realm 3, Hogwarts Castle

"Albus?"

Dumbledore turned to look at his Deputy Headmistress, not even realizing that she had arrived. Looking up the staircase, he saw a large number of students standing at the edge. He caught sight of the Weasley children right at the front, all staring down at the scene.

He quickly began issuing orders. "Weasley children, I want you all to come with me to my office right now. Minerva, send word to Molly and Arthur. Tell them that I need them to come to Hogwarts. Then contact Amelia Bones, and ask for both her and young Tonks, please."

Minerva nodded, immediately realizing why he had given that order. "Albus… do you know where they went?" she asked.

"No, I don't… but I have a feeling that wherever they are, they are in danger, if how Miss Weasley was being tossed around." He held up a hand. "Mister Potter and Miss Granger are very resourceful. I'm sure they'll protect Ginny until a way can be found to bring them home. Now, please send out those letters." He looked up. "The rest of you, return to the Great Hall." He waited until he heard the sounds of the students start heading back into the large room, before heading for his office, the Weasley's following right behind. He didn't need to read their minds to know that they were hoping to get some answers

He just hoped that when Bones and Tonks got here, they would be able to supply them with those answers.

Here is Part 1 of Episode Twenty One. As I stated, this is where I'm going to start making several changes that will hopefully pan out in Season 2. Let me know what you think.

Well, I finally broke down and bought myself a new computer, after I had a bit of an accident with my laptop. Thankfully, it wasn't destroyed, and I was able to save my work. Now that I've posted this, I'm going to work on the next chapter of my Buffy/Amalur fanfiction.