By Fate's Will

by Zels

Lina's happy, but certain events occur which leave her unsure as to what exactly to do. 3 parts. Different couples. Please read and review.

2. Realizations

Thanks for the reviews. They mean a lot to me. I read my lil notes at the end of this and realized that I was on a real morning anime fest during the summer when I wrote this. Hehe. Please forgive all bouts of characters being OOC. Before we get on to this next part of the tale, I'd just like to say:

Again, forgive me, Lina.

By Fate's Will part two:

Realizations

By: Zelda



A year had passed since Gourry's death. Lina still recalled not of it. In fact, she recalled no one by the name of Gourry. The past year had been filled with numerous adventures, most uneventful. Lina and Zelgadis had teamed up to try to find a cure for the chimera. They'd traveled non stop for almost a full year. Each day would find them in a different place, staying at a different inn. An occasional bandit gang or two would always pop up when they needed funding. Every now and then, Xellos would appear and do his tricks. It was almost like it had been, just without Amelia to spread word of justice and whatnot.

What had they learned in the past year? The cure was not anywhere to be found. That's what they had learned. They'd also learned many cures for other ailments. There was a cure for athlete's foot. A cure for arthritis. Hey, there was even a cure for hair loss, but no cure for the chimera. Nope, no cure for the chimera.

The year had also brought many thoughts. Lina, when the word adventure was but a song in the breeze and anything noble about it was surely a fraud, would often think back to the day she defeated Galnor. He had been a great foe, but... how had she done it? She wasn't doubting her abilities as a sorceress. No way! She was a first rate magic user, but... she also wasn't doubting his. How had she defeated him? Surely there had to have been something that had aided her. If there had been, she couldn't remember what is was. She also couldn't remember how she'd gotten into such a mess. Why had Galnor challenged her, anyway? Was she just in the wrong place at the right time?

Lina had also noticed that she'd gotten used to Zelgadis being around. His habits, smiles, sighs, and secret tears when another chance at the cure had been proven to be a false one. She'd become accustomed to all of that, plus more. They'd been partners in finding the cure for almost a year. The two had grown closer. That was a sure fact. How close, however, was what both were wondering. Sure, they were pals, but... Lina sighed and shook her head.

"It wouldn't work out." She decided aloud. "Besides... I don't think I'm ready to commit myself to anyone just yet."

Lina still could dream, though. What's wrong with dreaming? Dreams are dreams. Some come true. Some don't. Lina had also stuck with her new look. It made her seem more... grown up? ... powerful? ... sorceressy? Eh, it did something. She recalled that someone had thought her to be a school girl in her old uniform. Who had that person been? Eh, she'd remember later.

The times were... quiet. No news for a potential cure had been heard as of late. Lina and Zelgadis were basically living one day at a time. No news was... bad news. If they didn't get a lead soon, then... wouldn't the trail get cold? What if there were no more leads? Was Zel sentenced to remain in the form he held forever? The form which, though great armor, caused him pain.

On the third day or so of the quiet week, Lina and Zelgadis were eating a meal at a local restaurant. It was at that place that a messenger found them. Boy, it was a miracle for that guy to have found the two of them, with all their wandering.

"Lina Inverse? Zelgadis Greywords?" The messenger approached the two.

"Yeah. That's us." Lina answered.

"I'm glad to have finally found you." He looked quite relieved. "I was sent to inform you that you have been summoned to Sairune."

"Summoned, eh?" Lina took a sip of her drink. "What for?"

"Well, her majesty wishes to tell you that upon your arrival." The messenger informed.

"I see." Lina turned to Zelgadis. "What do you think, Zel?"

"It sounds as though we've found our newest lead." Zelgadis replied. "Sairune sounds better than the road."

"I have to agree with that. Still, are ya sure?" Lina didn't want to just give up on finding a cure for Zelgadis.

"It must be important if she sent this messenger after us." Zelgadis pointed out. "Besides, we can resume searching afterward. We're not getting anywhere here."

"Yeah." Lina nodded. "So, when do we leave?"

"You're coming? Great!" The messenger jumped for joy. "We can leave whenever you're ready, my lady."

Lina and Zelgadis gathered their belongings from the inn and followed the messenger to the other side of town. A carriage was waiting there.

"Wow. First class treatment." Lina commented.

The three entered the carriage and began the journey to Sairune.

Upon arriving at Sairune, they were greeted by Amelia. She was wearing a traditional dress as well as a tiara. She was more than elated to see her old comrades.

"Miss Lina! Mr. Zelgadis!" She rushed over and hugged Lina.

"Hey, Amelia." Lina returned the embrace. "So, what did you summon us for?"

"Well... I'm getting married." Amelia blushed.

"Married? Already?" Lina gasped.

"Yes. Daddy said that Wryn has courted me for the appointed amount of time. He thinks we should get married while we still can have you for a guest, Miss Lina." Amelia informed.

"When's the wedding?" Zelgadis inquired when he saw that Lina couldn't find anything to say.

"Tomorrow." Amelia answered.

"So soon?!" Lina exclaimed.

"Yes." Amelia nodded. "Miss Lina... would you be one of my brides maids?"

"A..Amelia... Sure." Lina smiled.

"Thank you, Miss Lina. It means so much to me." Amelia was greatful. "You've traveled a long way. Why don't you go up to your guest rooms and rest. I'll have the dress maker visit you in a while, Miss Lina. Please, don't fireball her."

"I'll try." Lina promised.

Lina and Zelgadis were lead off to their guest rooms. So, Amelia was getting married. Lina still couldn't believe that. How old was the girl? Fourteen? Fifteen? Lina was barely seventeen. How come Amelia was getting married so young? Even so, she'd be there for the girl. They were best friends.

Lina was fitted for a pale yellow dress. It wasn't too too bad. Even so, it was a bride's maid's dress. The wedding came too soon for Lina. Wryn seemed like a nice enough guy. Definitely Amelia's type. Zelgadis even attended the wedding, as well as the reception, and the ball that followed. It was a day full of festivities and partying. Even Zelgadis danced with her a few times. Lina had to admit, he wasn't a bad dancer. Not at all.

Amelia looked very happy. Lina hoped she'd stay that way. Wryn looked happy too. Maybe they were a match made in Heaven, a perfect couple. Soul mates, even. Did such things exist? Who was she to judge? Why was she thinking of all of this anyway? Lina sighed and lost herself to the music. It was a night to celebrate, not think about. Thinking could wait to be done while reminiscing.

A day passed. Amelia and Wryn were just about to leave for their honeymoon. Amelia, though, found she had to do one thing first. She kissed her husband before reentering the castle, something clasped in her hands.

Amelia went straight to Zelgadis's guest room. She took a deep breath. Could she do this? Should she do this? She just had to. She couldn't bear the burden any longer. Slowly, she raised her fist and tapped on the door. Zelgadis answered, and Amelia asked to be allowed in.

"Mr. Zelgadis..." Amelia looked down to the object she held. "Please keep this. I... I can't do it any longer. It's not just to keep this from her."

"We were sworn to secrecy." Zelgadis looked to the object and sighed.

"Mr. Gourry..." Amelia sadly shook her head.

"I'll keep it, Amelia." Zelgadis accepted the object from Amelia.

"Thank you, Mr. Zelgadis. I only pray that justice is on our side." Amelia bowed before leaving.

"Yes." Zelgadis agreed, staring strangely at the Hikari no Ken.

~~

Yume yawned and sat up. She looked to the bed to the left of hers and then to the one to the right of hers. Her sisters were both still asleep. Still quite tired, Yume rolled over, hugging her plush rabbit to her, and went back to sleep. It was not yet time to wake. Not yet.

~~

Lina yawned. She wasn't a happy sorceress. Why did they have to get up so early, anyways? What did Prince Phyl want? Couldn't he wait until... at least eight? Four in the morning was just a little ridiculous to her.

"Ah, Lina! I'm glad to see you. Sorry about it being so early." Prince Phyl warmly greeted, giving her a bone crushing bear hug.

"No.. prob..." Lina managed to say.

"I bet you're wondering why I've brought you here." Prince Phyl took a seat upon one of the cushioned chairs in the study. "Have a seat."

"Yeah, I was wondering that. I mean... it is kinda early." Lina replied, taking a seat across from Phyl.

"Well, my little Amelia has gone off and become an adult. My little girl... She will spread justice across the land, her husband helping. I can rest easy." Prince Phyl's eyes took a far away look as he envisioned his daughter riding the chariot of justice, her husband cheering her on from the side lines.

"Um... Phyl?" Lina waved her hands in front of his face to see if he'd respond. The sooner he spit out why he'd summoned her, the sooner she could go back to sleep.

"Well, I've thought of you as a daughter. Truly. And... I think it's time you settled down. There really isn't too much injustice going on. You've pretty much driven bandits into extinction. Amelia also said that you had no luck with finding a cure." Prince Phyl informed. "In fact, I've purchased a nice cottage in a remote location so you and your husband can have some privacy. There are horses there as well as vegetable gardens and even a stream to fish from. The dress maker is ready at any time, as is the tailor. The ceremony can be held here at the castle, just like Amelia's. We even have a guest list all made out, invitations filled out, and messengers ready to send them out."

"Phyl, that's really nice, but I don't think I'm ready to get married." Lina held up her hands in a way of protest.

"Come now. What about that odd fellow... Zelgadis? You two seem quite a pair." Prince Phyl knowingly nodded his head.

"C'mon, Phyl. Me and Zel... It'd never work." Lina said, sighing at the end.

"Ah... but you want it to." Prince Phyl observed.

"Oh, c'mon. You've got it all wrong!" Lina blushed, waving her hands furiously in front of her.

"You can try to fool everyone else, but you won't get it past me." Prince Phyl leaned back in his chair. "I remember when I first met my wife, rest her soul..."

(Oh great... Not only does he want me to marry Zel, he's gonna tell me a story about how he met his wife. I'm never gonna get back to sleep. Even so... his offer is kinda tempting.) Lina thought to herself.

At eight that morning, Lina crawled back to her bed. She was going to get the extra four hours of sleep she lost. She didn't care if she'd miss something. She was going to get back that sleep. It just so happened, though, that as she entered the soft bed, a servant entered with breakfast. Eh... maybe sleeping could wait until after breakfast. Especially since, if she wasn't mistaken, she was already sentenced to get married. Bring on the blueberry muffins. It was going to be a long meal.

Zelgadis sighed. What did the prince need him for? Why had he been summoned? He thought he'd kept well enough to himself to insure that things like this didn't happen. Prince Phyl smiled as Zelgadis entered his study. He came by and shook Zelgadis's hand. Why did Zel have a bad feeling about all this?

"Good morning, Zelgadis. Please, have a seat." Prince Phyl motioned to a chair before taking a seat in his cushioned seat. "I bet you're wondering why I've summoned you."

"The question did cross my mind." Zelgadis replied.

"Well... my Amelia has gone off and joined the world. She's married and... no longer daddy's little girl. My daughter always spoke favorably of you. You sound like a... nice enough guy." Prince Phyl thought about that last sentence for a moment, wondering if it had been accurate.

"Hardly." Zelgadis almost wanted to laugh, but it was Amelia's description of him, so...

"Anyway, I think you should settle down. Lina has delivered many a justified dragon slave to hordes of bandit gangs, thus making them... extinct. Few adventures remain left for you and her, other than the adventures of marriage." Prince Phyl informed.

"What?" Zelgadis wondered if he was hearing this correctly.

"You and Lina should settle down. Lina's like a daughter to me. I think that you two would suit each other. I have the ceremony all planned out, the cake ready to bake, the invitations ready to send out, and even tailors and seamstresses waiting to make whatever dresses or suits are needed." Prince Phyl cut straight to the point.

"Hold on a moment. When did I ever say that I wanted to get married?" Zelgadis couldn't hide his agitation. "Besides, what makes you think Lina would want to marry me?"

"Trust me. I know." Prince Phyl leaned back in his chair. "I remember when my wife, rest her soul, and I first met..."

(Oh, no... He's not going to tell me some long story to get my consent by driving me insane with his constant chatter... He is. Well, I won't be easily beaten.) Zelgadis readied himself for a long day.

At six that evening, Zelgadis entered the kitchen. He was hungry. He was thirsty. He was wondering how a person could talk for ten hours straight without faltering or needing a drink. He was going to get married. 1

~~

Onna no Hi shot up in her bed. Her hair was scattered about her face and her eyes were still closed. In her embrace was a cute unicorn doll.

"He's mine!" She grumbled before falling back down upon her pillow, encased in the bliss of sleep.2

~~

Zelgadis looked toward Lina. She raised her head and looked toward him. They were to be married within three days. How had they gotten themselves into this mess again?

"So....um.." Lina searched for something to talk about. "This fish..is...um... great."

"Yes." Zelgadis nodded.

"Weird that Phyl couldn't make it." Lina commented.

"He's probably up to something else." Zelgadis sighed.

"Who'd think that the justice prince would be so into scheming?" Lina poked at her fish with her fork.

"Um... Do you mind that..." Zelgadis couldn't finish. Saying that would just make it too real.

"Um... do you?" Lina returned.

An uncomfortable silence passed.

"No, not really." Both quickly stated. "But if you..."

They paused, staring at one another. That Phyl. They'd have to leave him a nice fireb...er... present for all he'd done.

"So... um..." Lina rolled her finger about the rim of the glass. "We're...uh, getting married, eh?"

"It seems so." Zelgadis nodded.

"Who'd he invite?" Lina asked after a moment of thinking.

"I'm not sure." Zelgadis answered.

"Great. So just anybody could come to our wedding. Geez." Lina rolled her eyes, eating some of her fish. "You'd think he'd at least have the decency to allow us to choose who we want to come. And what about Amelia? She invited us to her own wedding, but will she be able to come to ours? I don't even have a ring!"

Zelgadis felt his cheeks redden. A ring? Well, he did have that one ring. It was a beautiful ring too, but... could he? Should he? They were getting married, whether they liked it or not. Prince Phyl had pretty much stated that, but... Well... How did Zelgadis feel about all this? He wished he knew.

"Here." Zelgadis took the ring out of his pocket and handed it to Lina.

"What? For me?" Lina looked at the ring, it shimmering so brightly in the fading sunlight. "Oh, Zel. Wow. Really? Where'd you get it? It's so beautiful."

"It doesn't matter." Zelgadis looked away, memories from the day he found the ring filling his mind.

"Hey, I got a ring!" Lina beamed. "Maybe this isn't so bad. Too bad Phyl isn't throwing in a castle."

~~

Onna no Hi slowly opened her eyes. She yawned and stretched, getting out of her bed. She looked to the picture beside her bed, on the stand, and smiled.

"Good morning, you two." She warmly greeted. "It looks like it'll be a nice day. I.. wish ya'll were here with me, but... it's okay. I know you're safe, and... well, that's all that really matters. Yeah. That's all that really matters."

A tear in her eye, she slowly set the picture back down in its spot. Onna no Hi turned to her right and stared at her twin. She was still fast asleep.

"Sleepy head. What would Daddy say if he were here?" She tsked. "But, Dad isn't here, is he? It's so... quiet without him around. No early morning training or anything. No fun camping trips or secret runs to the store for ice cream. I wonder how he felt when Mom left..."

"What're you doin' up so early?" Onna no Mizu yawned, sitting up and rubbing her eyes. "We still got a while left."

"Eh, I feel pretty rested. I can't sleep for too long a time. I think I'll take a walk or something, then I'll go back to sleep." Onna no Hi informed.

"I see. Well, be careful. You know that we still have a mission to complete." Onna no Mizu reminded, laying back down.

"I know, I know." Onna no Hi nodded, leaving the room.

"Stay safe, sis." Onna no Mizu whispered before falling back asleep.

~~

Lina bit her lip. It was the fateful day. She was glad that her face was hidden behind a veil. She was certain that she was blushing so much that she looked like an idiot.

"Miss Lina, it's time." A servant informed.

"A..alright." Lina nodded, hesitantly following.

Zelgadis nervously adjusted his bow tie. What was he doing? Was it real? Was he really going to marry Lina? He mentally kicked himself.

(Fool! Gourry should be here, not you! What are you thinking?) Zelgadis thought to himself. (You should have done something instead of embracing what Phyl set up. Really, Zel.)

"It will be alright, my child. Marriage is a wonderful thing." The priestess tried to assure.

"She's right, Zel. You're a lucky man." A familiar voice added.

"Xellos." Zelgadis turned and glared at the man behind him.

"Who else would be your best man, hmm?" Xellos grinned.

"Anyone but you." Zelgadis replied, tone quite cold.

"I'm hurt." Xellos frowned. "And here I traveled all this way just to watch you marry Lina-sama."

"Really." Zelgadis rolled his eyes.

"You'd better treat her right, Zelgadis." Xellos opened his eyes, staring Zelgadis down. "Are you really going to be able to please her in your form?"

"W..what?" Zelgadis's face turned bright red.

"You know what I mean. Will you be able to perform?" Xellos continued, not at all fazed.

"I..I don't know wh...what you're talking about." Zelgadis quickly grabbed his handkerchief as his nose began to bleed.

"Uh huh." Xellos smiled, his mission accomplished. "Well, have fun."3

Xellos gave Zelgadis a hard slap on the back before going to a pew with a lady dressed in dark violet. He took a seat beside her and clasped her hand in his. To Zelgadis, she seemed asleep. She also seemed vaguely familiar. The woman on the other side of Xellos dressed in light violet seemed the same. In fact, if Zelgadis wasn't mistaken, he could have sworn that she was Yume, but what would Yume be doing around Xellos?4

"You're so pretty, Miss Lina. You're a lovely bride." The maid complimented, gazing at Lina as though dreaming up her own wedding day. "And your groom is so handsome. You must visit us after you've had a child."

"Geh. W..what do you mean?" Lina's cheeks burned bright red.

"Come now. Surely you plan on having a family." The maid smiled, returning to her day dream. "Oh, it'll be so perfect, Miss Lina. I can see it now..."

(Great, now people are planning what our children will look like? What's next? Wait. Should I even ask?) Lina sighed.

"Hey, girl." Onna no Hi greeted, entering the area. "Wow. You're getting married?"

"Onna no Hi." Lina felt some of her stress leave. "I'm glad you're here. Yeah, Phyl decided Zel and I would be a great couple so..."

"I see. That reminds me a bit of..." Onna no Hi giggled to herself, lost in the memory. "Anyway, you look really nice. I give you guys my blessing."

"You're not going to stay?" Lina seemed to plead for Onna no Hi to stay with her eyes.

"Sorry, Lina, but I can't stick around for too long. I just decided to walk around for a bit. I wish I could stay."

"I understand." Lina nodded. "Take care."

"I will. You take care too, got it?" Onna no Hi waved as she turned to go. "I'll see ya later."

"Bye." Lina waved back.

"Alright Miss Lina, it's time for you to go." The maid informed as the music filled the air.

"Here we go." Lina took a deep breath before walking through the door.

~~

Kanashimi awoke and rolled over. For a brief moment, she opened her eyes.

"Eh?" Kanashimi sat up and looked around the room. "Onnes?"

Kanashimi winkled her nose. Something was fishy. Where were her sisters? Sighing, she laid back down. Surely they were safe. C'mon, how much trouble could those two get into?

~~



And so Lina and Zelgadis were married 5. Both were blushing so much. They were surely the very shade of beets. The servants of the castle all though it quite cute and adorable. Marriage. Who'd of thought? Well, other than Prince Phyl.

After everyone had cleared out of the chapel, three remained, still seated. Xellos sat in deep contemplation. Zelgadis and Lina were now married. Where did that leave him? What was he to do? He was supposed to keep an eye on Lina, but what danger would she be in while with Zelgadis? Eh, the greatest danger of all, more than likely. Even so, he would have to be scarce.

The woman to his right slowly opened her eyes. She looked about her, confused by her surroundings. Xellos smiled, taking her pale hand in his.

"It's all right, my lady. You're safe. I just took you on a trip, that's all." He informed.

"Xellos?" Yume stared at the man, still half in the realm of dreams.

"Yes." Xellos smiled. "You look utterly enchanting, madam. I hope you don't mind that I took the liberty of taking you and your dear sister to a wedding."

"Wedding?" Yume arched an eye brow. "Who got married?"

"Why, Zelgadis and Lina-sama did. They were indeed quite a match." Xellos informed.

"Oh." Yume looked to her sister. "She's sleeping?"6

"As were you. I fear you slept through the wedding, but you were at least there, ne?" Xellos released Yume's hand and patted her head. "Rest now. I'll make sure you make it home safe."

"Thank you, Xellos-san." Yume yawned, resting her head upon Xellos's shoulder. "I'm sorry I was so mean to you when we first met.... I guess it was... a ... mood swing."

"It's alright." Xellos grinned. "I had a ball."

"Wh..at are... we ... going... to do next?" Yume softly inquired.

"You will rest and... I will be out of character? How's that?" Xellos replied.

"Mn." Yume nodded.

"Good. We're agreed then." Xellos turned and looked at Hikari. "I guess I'll watch after you while you can't watch after me. Then we'll be even, ne? Besides, what mischief I can cast upon those that intrude. Heh heh heh..."

*Eh... A Year Later...*7

Lina awoke and smiled at her husband. She still couldn't believe that she and Zel were married. Sure, they'd been married for a year, but... each new day felt ... like a new dream come true. Ever since they'd gotten married, they'd done just as Phyl had said, settled down. Zel's sword rested above the mantle of the fireplace. Lina hadn't cast a single spell since they'd gotten married. Not even a light spell. Well... there was that one healing spell, but... C'mon. Healing magic was... well...healing magic.

Ever since they'd gotten married, Zelgadis and Lina had seen not of Xellos. It was like he'd just walked off the face of the land, exiting existence.

It was on that fateful morning that a messenger arrived. It wasn't the usual messenger either.8

"Yume-sama." Zelgadis smiled at the woman.

"Hello, Zelgadis-chan." Yume smiled at the man. "I see that you are now wed, and to Lina-chan. I guess that my family and I slept through some important events."9

"What brings you here?" Zelgadis could tell by the look in her eyes that it wasn't just a normal visit.

"Do you still seek a cure, Zelgadis-chan?" Yume directly questioned.

"Yes... though there seems to be none." Zelgadis paused. "Do you know of one, Yume-sama?"

Yume bit her lip. Did she want to do this? It would make him so happy, but... he'd be open to any normal type of wound that could be afflicted. Still, there was nothing but peace in the area, for now. Should she? Could she? Wasn't his happiness of the utmost importance? Demo... wasn't his safety as well?

"Yes." Yume softly said. "I... I know of a cure."

"Really?!" Lina joined the conversation.

"Yes... but..." Yume had to make sure that he still wanted this. "Are you certain that you want to be cured? You'd be vulnerable to all attacks."

"I've searched most of my life for a cure. I'm certain that I can handle whatever risks come." Zelgadis assured.

"I see." Yume nodded. "Alright, then."

~~

Hikari yawned. She looked to her right. Yume was gone.

"Great." She muttered, sitting up. "Oy, onne. She's gone again."

"Let her be." Kanashimi returned, rolling over. "I'm still tired."

"What about your lil job thing?" Hikari inquired.

"AD has it covered." Kanashimi quickly fell back asleep.

"Nicest thing I've heard you say about him." Hikari commented, rolling back over to the side she had been sleeping on. "Aiy!"

"Hello." Xellos smiled.

"What in the name of the Guardians are you doing here?" Hikari questioned, pulling her covers about her.

"Came to check up on you. I hadn't heard from you in over two years. I... I was worried." Xellos looked away.10

"What's happened while I was sleeping?" Hikari raised herself up on one elbow. "Did Lina-chan get married or something?"

"How did you guess?" Xellos frowned a little, as though she'd ruined his fun.

"Pure luck. Now, how did you find where I was?" Hikari tapped a finger upon her pillow.

"Sore wa himitsu desu." Xellos smiled, putting his hand over hers and nearing as though to kiss her.

"You can't win me over that easily, Xel. Not even when I'm half awake." Hikari got out of her bed and turned to face the man. "I know you, Xel."11

"Will you at least return with me to cause some mischief?" Xellos stared up at Hikari, opening his eyes.

"I was planning on sleeping for a little longer. We rarely get any sleep, y'know." Hikari informed.

"I don't sleep at all, unless I want to... just for fun." Xellos returned.

"You're a silly boy." Hikari pointed out.

"That may be true, but..." Xellos stood and went over to Hikari. "Can't I also be crazy about you?"

"Rebound relationships aren't a good thing, Xelly." Hikari took a step away from him. 12

"Do you hate me now, my Hikari?" Xellos inquired, eyes burning into hers.

"How could anyone hate you, dear Xellos?13" Hikari weakly smiled. "No, I don't hate you. I just don't want either of us to do anything we'd regret. You understand, don't you?"

"No. Not at all." Xellos shrugged. "You still wear it?"

"Hm?" Hikari looked down to the locket she wore. "Yes. Why wouldn't I? You gave it to me on my birthday. You even got my sisters something."

"Ah, yes. I was especially fond of your very twin. She was so much fun to play with." Xellos grinned as he recalled the memory.

"And I do believe that your fun was shattered when you ticked the pregnant girl off and her dear knight approached with a holy sword." Hikari reminded.

"I haven't had so much fun in ages." Xellos's smile widened. "You were the one that started the food fight."

"Was not. I merely suggested the event to you."

"And my acting upon your request meant that it was all my fault?"

"Well, you did get the blame, so, in a way, it was all your fault."

"Your logic is as twisted as ever."

"I learned from the best."

"Perhaps."

Xellos went over to Hikari and took one of her hands in his.

"Xellos..." Hikari started to back away.

"Get your rest. You can't cause too much trouble when you're not fully recharged. We still have many people out there that have never had our special soup or experienced our unique traps." Xellos gently kissed his index finger and put it to her lips. "Pleasant dreams."

"Happy hunting." Hikari squeezed his hand.

With that the trickster priest vanished. Hikari slumped to the ground as soon as he was gone and burst into tears. Guardians, that had been hard. 14

~~

Yume stared into the white dish. Was this really all there was to it? She sighed, closing her eyes. It was now or never. Her dear Zelgadis was waiting for his cure. She was... she was his only hope.

"Take form, I pray, for me please do. This one request is all I ask of you." Yume softly chanted.

The mixture in the white dish rose and encircled itself until it was a solid bar, appearing very much like a bar of soap. Yume smiled at this. It had worked. She handed the bar to Zelgadis.

"Here. Bathe with this." She ordered.

Zelgadis was more than happy to comply. He rushed to the bathroom and hopped into the tub. Fifteen minutes later he reappeared in the room, still looking quite chimera-ish. Yume frowned.

"I did exactly as..." She paused, duhing herself. "I forgot something."

Yume went over to Zelgadis and kissed his forehead.

"A maiden's kiss." She explained.

In a flash of brilliant light, Zelgadis's skin slowly, but surely, changed from its hard, rocky substance to that of normal skin. He smiled, running his hands through his normal hair. He was no longer a chimera! He was no longer a monster! He was cured! He ran over to Lina and picked her up, swinging her around. Lina laughed, happy things had worked out.

"I'm cured!" He merrily announced.

"Yeah." Lina smiled, kissing him. "Hm... I think I could get used to this."

"You'd better." Zelgadis returned with a kiss.

Yume smiled at the couple, turning as though to go. Zelgadis saw this and set Lina down and went over to Yume. He had tears in his eyes as he embraced her.

"Thank you." He whispered.

"It's nothing. Please, don't thank me." Yume replied, tears in her eyes as well. Had she sealed his fate? The look in his eyes...

"Today you have given me the greatest gift of all... You've given me back my life. I'm eternally greatful to you, Yume-sama." Zelgadis felt his tears of joy leave his eyes.

"I am glad you're happy." Yume couldn't rejoice with the family. She felt Zelgadis's tears wet her cheeks. (Have I already killed him by giving to him what he thinks a blessing? Have I already thrown his life away?)

"Yume-sama, what's wrong?" Zelgadis released Yume and looked into her eyes, sensing something was amiss.

"It's nothing, Zelgadis-chan... nothing." Yume forced a smile, shaking her head to dismiss the idea that anything was wrong.

"Are you sure?" Zelgadis searched her eyes for what she may already have shielded from him.

"Yes." Yume looked away, knowing he was probing her very soul for the true answer. "I... should go."

"Don't be in such a rush to go." Lina neared Yume and gave her a big smile. "It's time to celebrate! I'm going to make us a huge meal with all sorts of yummy things! We're going to party until dawn, and you're the guest of honor."

"Oh, I couldn't impose..." Yume didn't want to be thanked for what she'd done. She felt as though she'd already killed him.

"It's no problem. I promise." Lina took Yume's hand. "C'mon. From what Zel's told me, you're a special person in his life... almost like a fairy godmother. You have to stay. You... you gave him back his life. Even though I thought he was quite handsome as a chimera..." A sly smile spread across Lina's face as she cast a glance toward Zelgadis. "He's still quite a hunk."

Lina's joy seemed to spread to Yume, and she managed a weak, but true, smile. Perhaps she could stay. What else was there to do, really? Sleep? She'd had enough sleep. She'd had enough nightmares to last her a lifetime, ironically enough. It was time to party. It was time to have some fun. Even if it gave her a false sense of security, she knew that it was time to let go of the reality she'd been thrust into and to embrace the fantasy she was being handed.

"Alright." Yume gave in.

"Yay!" Lina led Yume over to a chair. "You just sit here and rest while I make the food."

Lina's eyes turned to stars and her mouth watered for a moment while she considered the menu. After the moment had passed, she was back to her normal self and rushing about the kitchen. Zelgadis took a seat across from Yume. The two sat in silence, Yume avoiding Zelgadis's gaze.

"What troubles you?" Zelgadis inquired.

"It's nothing." Yume warmly smiled at Zelgadis, to relieve his worry. "I promise. I'm just... thinking, that's all."

"Something's wrong. I know that look." Zelgadis settled down in his chair, knowing that it was going to take some time to get Yume to say what was bothering her.

Zelgadis softly frowned. He had known Yume for as long as he could remember. She knew practically everything about him, but he knew very little about her. He never thought to ask, though. Every time the conversation had turned to her past, he'd always find some way to change the subject because her eyes would look so... sad. What had happened to her? She'd shared much of his pain, so why couldn't he share some of hers?

~~

Hikari stared at the glass coffin. She went over to it, fingering the edge.

"So peaceful looking..." She softly commented. "Which is real?"

Hikari gazed down at the figure in the coffin. She looked so at peace.

"Lost in an eternal dream... I pray it's not a nightmare. Why can't I see you anymore? Why can't I feel you anymore? Where are you? Are you truly so lost? Sometimes I feel like I've found you and my heart gets so warm, but then... then it grows so cold." Hikari sadly smiled at the figure. "What are you hiding? What aren't you sharing? Why can't things be as they were?"

"Because they're no longer as they were, sis." Kanashimi spoke up from behind Hikari.

"Onne... I thought you were asleep." Hikari turned to face her sister.

"Eh, I couldn't rest without hearing your steady breathing." Kanashimi turned her gaze to the glass coffin. "She looks just like a doll... She could also be a double for Snow White, ne?"

"Look, she still guards over her." Hikari pointed to the knight dozing under a tree.

"Hope does that." Kanashimi placed a hand upon the coffin. "Sometimes I wish that that day had never happened."

"We all do." Hikari informed.

"But I bet she wishes it the most." Kanashimi replied.

"It was on that day that everything spiraled downward." Hikari commented, again looking upon the figure in the coffin.

"One event... it took just one event to forever change our lives." Kanashimi sadly shook her head. "And we were just as powerless then as we appear to be now. Guardians..."

"We still have time here, ne?"

"Maybe, but I feel that it's just not enough. The curse has been lifted. All is going according to Unmei's plan."

"I pray it doesn't end as she sees it."

"As do I."

~~

Onna no Hi paused in front of the cottage. Two children were playing in front of it. They looked to be having a sword fight using wooden swords.

"Reminds me of me an' Indi when we were little." She thought to herself. "They even look just like we did..."

A tear gently rolled down Onna no Hi's right cheek as a man exited from the cottage. He was just as she remembered him. He went over to the two girls and brought out a practice dummy. It was time for afternoon training.

Onna no Hi weakly smiled. Why had she done this again? All this only seemed to cause her more pain, cause her more longing. Even so, she knew she had to see them again. If she couldn't see Jeddy, she had to see the ones she could see.

A soft breeze passed by. The man looked up. He paused when he saw Onna no Hi. His face lit up, so hopeful. Onna no Hi closed her eyes, a parade of tears ready to fall.

"Forgive me." Onna no Hi whispered before vanishing.

~~

Zelgadis poured everyone a glass of wine. Yume had been silent the whole time. Lina nervously looked to her husband. Was Yume okay?

"Lina-chan... I don't think you should have any wine." Yume softly said.

"Why is that, Yume?" Lina was glad the woman was talking.

"I don't think I've lost my touch. I'm quite certain of this fact. You may surely get a second opinion. I'm not as great a healer as I used to be, but..." Yume looked up and turned to Lina. "You, my dear, are with child. I am certain."15

"Eh?" Lina set down her glass. "Y..you're sure?"

"Mn." Yume nodded.

"Well.. I was wondering..." Lina looked away, lost in her thoughts. "Wow."

The sound of liquid splashing onto the floor filled the room. Yume turned to Zelgadis. He had been in the process of filling his own glass when she'd said what she'd said. He was still pouring, too. The glass, however, was past full, and thus overflowing.

"Zelgadis-chan... you're spilling." Yume gently informed, taking the bottle from the shocked man.

"W..with child?" Zelgadis choked out. "R..really?"

"Yes, dear. With child." Yume smiled, setting down the bottle.

"How far along?" Zelgadis inquired.

"Hm..." Yume closed her eyes and concentrated. "Two months? Maybe three."

The couple stared at one another and then at Yume. After another five minutes of initial shock, Zelgadis and Lina embraced, overjoyed.

"Two blessings in one day?" Tears were falling down Lina's cheeks.

(So... it shall be.) Yume sadly looked away.

~~

Onna no Mizu awoke suddenly. She sensed that something was wrong. She then saw her sister, crying in the corner of the room.

"So? Is that you?" Onna no Mizu stood and walked over to the weeping woman. "What's wrong, So?"

"I went and saw them today." Onna no Hi informed. "He saw me, though. I.. I just vanished. I don't know why I went. I.. I just had to. I had to."

"I know, So. It's okay." Onna no Mizu hugged her sister. "I sometimes visit too, when I know they can't see me. It's hard. No one said it'd be easy."

"I miss them so much." Onna no Hi confessed. "I just want to run over to them and give them all a hug. I want to tell him what happened. I want to set his mind at ease. I want him to be able to rest easy at night. Oh.. Why can't we, though? Why must they wonder? Why must they wake up each day hoping that..."

"Shh..." Onna no Mizu could bear it no longer. "I wonder the same things, but thinking about them only makes it harder to move onward. We have to set all those questions aside. We have an important mission, So. We can't forget that. We have to forsake our own desires for the mission."

"Guardians! You sound just like Zels." Onna no Hi said in-between her tears. "Really, sis... Sometimes, though, I wish things would just go back to how they were. I... I also want to just scream 'Screw the mission!' and rush off. Is that wrong?"

"No. We all feel that way, actually. Maybe we weren't prepared for this test. Maybe we weren't prepared for this mission." Onna no Mizu gently stroked her sister's head.

"How could we be prepared? We were pretty much flung into it." Onna no Hi questioned. "I made a lotta mistakes. If I hadn't..."

"Shh... don't say it. Once you say it, you can't take it back. I don't want you to say it, So." Onna no Mizu released her sister and looked her in the eyes.

"But it's true." Onna no Hi returned. "You and I both know that it's true."

"No, we don't. We just think it's true because we don't know any better. How can we be certain that Fate wouldn't have had this come to pass even if certain events had never taken place?" Onna no Mizu replied.

"Maybe you're right." Onna no Hi managed a weak smile. "Still... I can't help but wonder."

"Wonder, then. Just, please, don't say." Onna no Mizu whispered.

"I'll try, sis. I'll try." Onna no Hi wiped away her tears.

~~

A cured Zelgadis. A peek into the past of the mysterious women circled around the Slayers group and, possibly, Fate. What more awaits? No, this isn't the end of this part. It's intermission time! Heh. No, seriously, it's more of a time pass thing. Sorry. I hope I'm not rushing things. 16

Seasons passed. In time, a beautiful little girl entered the home of the sorceress and man formerly known as a chimera. Yume stayed with them for a time, aiding in meal preparation, cleaning, and even caring for the wee one. Zelgadis noticed a deep sadness in her eyes each time she gazed upon his daughter. What was Yume hiding from him? What caused her such pain?

During the time which passed, little sleep was gotten by the rest of the mysterious women. They had come together, all in tears, and tried not to talk of things that would bring forth more tears. Instead they discussed the mission. They talked of what Yume was up to, as well as how it was as Unmei saw it to be. They also prayed that it wouldn't end in tragedy.

What of the trickster priest? What mischief was he up to during that time? Surprisingly, very little. He instead watched over the house in which a new life was expected and had been delivered. He and Hikari had needed some time apart. He had too much to think out. Was what she had said true? Lina was happy with Zelgadis. He stood no chance, yet... did he hope that he one day would? Didn't he care for Hikari as well? Love was so complex and complicating. Was that why he flirted more and promised commitment less? That being said, hadn't meeting Lina made him consider offering commitment? Was he not already committed to her? As he thought more and more about it, he realized he'd first thought of commitment after meeting Hikari. Had he been serious or teasing? Was that part of the price in being the trickster priest? Had he tricked himself too many a time to know true from false?

Yume awoke one morning, the wee one smiling down at her. Had she been in their dream for so long? Had she been lost in it? The child called her Auntie. The child thought her Daddy's sister. The child was happy as anything, knowing only the bliss of childhood. Lina waddled about the place, too stubborn to rest. Another child was soon to come. Destiny... Yume knew the time was fast approaching. Would she be ready? Would she be alert? The trickster priest appeared in the room, a finger to his lips.

"Ame, dear, would you go and fetch Auntie a glass of water please?" Yume softly asked the four-year-old, sitting up in the bed.

"Sure, Auntie!" The child beamed, skipping out of the room.

"It has been a while, Xellos-san." Yume greeted the man once Ame had departed.

"I was thinking the same thing." Xellos replied, taking a seat on the bed. "You look well."

"As do you." Yume returned.

"We're both lying, as usual." Xellos frowned. "You're here for the same reason I am. You've been here doing just as I've been."

"Yes. I guess we have been trading off guard duty." Yume commented.

"Why do you seem so sad when you look at that child?" Xellos questioned.

"As you would say, sore wa himitsu desu." Yume answered, faltering slightly. "And why do you keep an eye upon this house as a hawk would?"

"Sore wa himitsu desu." Xellos could play this game too, seeing as it was his own.

"That bad, eh?" Yume wrinkled her nose, standing and going over to the open window. "It's fast approaching. It'll come too quickly."

"Your mission?" Xellos turned to face her.

"Yes." Yume nodded. "My mission..."

~~

Hikari paused, halfway in the process of taking a drink of her coffee. She set down the cup and listened.

"What is it?" Kanashimi inquired, worried by her sister's sudden seriousness.

"So soon?" Hikari looked to her sister. "It's time."

"Guardians be with us today." Kanashimi whispered, taking a slow sip of her coffee.

"I.. I have to go." Hikari stood from her chair.

"You know your duty." Kanashimi didn't look up from her cup.

"Unfortunately, yes." Hikari wrinkled her nose. "And I'll carry it out... I must."

"Good luck... to both of you." Kanashimi raised her head and smiled at her sister.

"Thanks." Hikari returned the smile before vanishing.

"I hope you succeed... I don't want to have to take three to the other side." Kanashimi softly said.

~~

Onna no Hi smiled at Ame.

"Hey, Ame. How are ya?" She greeted.

"I'm fine, Auntie!" Ame chirped. "And you?"

"I'm pretty good, kiddo. How's your mommy doing? She's going to have the baby soon. Are you excited?" Onna no Hi inquired.

"Yeah! I hope it's a girl. Mommy's brushing the horses. Daddy thinks she should rest, but Mommy doesn't think so. She's stub... stubborn? That's what Auntie Yume said." Ame informed.

"Where is Auntie Yume? I need to talk to her." Onna no Hi looked around the room.

"She's still in bed, I think. Uh, oh! I hafta get water." Ame rushed off to fetch the water.

"Still in bed?" Onna no Hi arched an eyebrow as she went to her cousin's room.

Onna no Hi paused once she reached the doorway. The door was cracked, but she could see in. After a short battle over whether or not to peek inside, she decided to take a peek. What she saw only made her curiosity hungrier. What was Xellos doing in Yume's room, and on her bed for that fact? He looked like he was talking to someone behind him. Was it her cousin? Well, who else would it be? She concentrated to see if she could hear what was being said.

"...in love." Yume said.

"That may be true, but I was never partial to confusion when it was dealt upon me." Xellos replied, sighing.

"Few are." Yume returned. "And yet, many seem to seek this experience out, caring not what it brings. That's how strong love is."

"I agree with that, but you've still not given me an answer." Xellos pointed out.

"And what answer can I give you?" Yume questioned.

"A good one sounds nice." Xellos answered.

"You're as silly as ever." Yume was probably rolling her eyes here. Onna no Hi was sure of that.

"Well... will yes or no be better?" Xellos inquired.

(What in the name of the Guardians are they talking about?) Onna no Hi wondered.

"That's probably less likely than the first." Yume sighed. "The question given was not an easy one to answer. How are you so sure that I hold the answer, anyway?"

"Sore wa himitsu desu."

"You have many secrets."

"Yes."

"Does anyone happen to know all of them?"

"Yes..."

"I see. Well, the answer of my question would then have to be... yes."

"Really?"

"Yeah."

"Interesting. Are you sure?"

"Not at all, but with all my heart at the same time."

By this time, Onna no Hi came crashing into the room. She'd fallen over trying to hear the last few soft sentences. She blushed severely as she turned to face those she'd been spying on.

"Um... hi." She greeted, placing her hand nervously behind her head. "Uh.. nice weather, ne?"

"Hello, So-chan." Yume gave her cousin a questioning look. "What brings you here today?"

"Well...um... I wanted to talk to you, but... Uh..." Onna no Hi bit her lip and looked away.

"Here, Auntie..." Ame paused when she saw Xellos. "Wow. Who are you?"

"I'm..." Xellos's lips turned upward, a sinister idea entering his mind. "I'm your uncle, Xellos."

"Uncle... Xellos?" Ame wasn't quite sure about this one.

"Yes." Xellos nodded, placing an arm around Yume. "At least, soon I'll be."

"Oh... Okay!" Ame beamed, handing Yume her water.

"Guardians?! Really?" Onna no Hi thought back to what she'd overheard and it all seemed to fit together. "Wow... sorry I interrupted."

"N..nani?" Yume looked around, not seeing quite what everyone else clearly saw.

"Drink your water, dear. We wouldn't want little Ame to feel unimportant." Xellos helped Yume lift the glass to her lips.

"Yume..." Zelgadis paused when he entered the room. "Xellos."

"Look, Daddy! Uncle Xellos is here. So's Auntie Hi." Ame ran over to her father and hugged him.

"Uncle... Xellos?" Zelgadis shot Xellos a questioning glare.

"Yes. At least, soon I'll be." Xellos took a sip of Yume's water.

"Onna no Hi?" Zelgadis turned to her, pleading for her to say something which proved Xellos was lying.

"I guess so. I only heard a bit, but it does sound that way." Onna no Hi shrugged.

"Daddy, why does Auntie Yume look so... weird?" Ame softly asked.

Yume opened her mouth to say something, but Xellos lifted the glass and all she could really do was drink the water. It wouldn't be right to have a scene in front of Ame.

"She's just... How would you say it, Zelgadis? Happy? Excited? Surprised?" Xellos opened his eyes and gave Zelgadis a look that dared for a retort.

"Let's go and check on Mommy. Okay, Ame?" Zelgadis lifted his daughter up.

"Okay, Daddy." Ame agreed.

"I love you Ame." Zelgadis placed a kiss on his daughter's cheek, casting a sideways glance to Xellos to see how he'd react.

"I love you too, Daddy." Ame was so cute.

"You're so precious to me, Yume." Xellos kissed Yume, casting a sideways glance toward Zelgadis to see how he liked them apples.

"What do you think the baby is going to be, Ame?" Zelgadis wasn't going to lose.17

"I hope it's a girl." Ame informed.

Xellos wasn't going to let that get to him. He still had Yume locked in a deep kiss. He could tell that Zelgadis didn't want to lose, but he had him beat by far. He could already see the veins popping out on the top of Zel's forehead. Yep, Xel was gettin' to him. Finally, Zelgadis and Ame left to check on Lina. Xellos parted from Yume, grinning at his victory.

"Man, I don't think I've ever seen anyone kiss for that long." Onna no Hi commented. "Why didn't you tell me about this, cuz? You can trust me."

Yume blinked a few times. She then slowly turned her head to face the grinning Xellos. She cast a deadly glare his way and slapped him quite hard.

"What in the name of the Guardians possessed you to do that?! You and Zelgadis may be rivals, but I would rather you kept me out of your trivial fights." She informed, standing. "Especially when Ame is in the room."

"You don't mean that." Xellos feigned a hurt look. "My dear Yume, surely you don't mean that."

"Why did I even consider helping you?" Yume turned and left the room. "My sister deserves better than you. My answer's no."

"Maybe that was a bit much." Xellos commented aloud, seeing the tears trailing after her. "Hm... Does that mean ya'll aren't getting married?" Onna no Hi questioned after a moment.

~~

Hikari smiled at the horses. They were beautiful. Lina had just finished brushing them and was heading back toward the house. Hikari closed her eyes as the arrow hit.

"So, it's begun." She softly whispered, petting a nearby horse. "Hurry, sis."

~~

Xellos went after Yume. It wouldn't do for her to be all upset when he did need her aid in deciding a few matters.

"Yume... I... I..." Xellos didn't like apologizing all that much. "I'm sorry."

"You think that makes it all better?" Yume turned to face him, brushing away her tears as she turned.

"No, but..." Xellos was no good when it came to talking with her for some reason. He had no trouble talking to Hikari. "You did once say that it helped to make things better. Remember the food fight?"

"Yes..." Yume quickly turned toward the back yard. "Guardians! Not now!"

Yume ran out the back door. Xellos slowly followed. It was then that he heard the scream.

"Lina-sama! Ame!" Xellos rushed after Yume.

Yume got out the door just in time to catch an arrow headed for her.

"I'll have to thank AstonFire for that long lesson in arrow catching." She commented, turning her gaze to the sniper. "Who are you?"

"Ah... You are worthy of my name. Perhaps even more than that." The man jumped down and stood directly in front of Yume. "Langston. I'm the brother of Galnor, who was slain by that woman's hand."

Langston bowed and smiled.

"What is your name, fair one?" He inquired.

"I am known as Yume." She answered.

"Yet... that is not your true name, is it?" He quickly took her into his arms, dipping her as though having just completed a dance move. "What's your move, fair Yume?"

Yume was not ready for battle. She'd allowed Xellos to get to her. She'd let the trio she was to protect out of her sight. She'd already failed, had she not? Langston's blue eyes bore down at hers, as though searching her eyes for her true identity. She closed her eyes. Langston smiled. His golden brown hair billowed out behind him as he leaned forward to kiss her.18 Just as he touched her lips with his own, he felt someone tap on his shoulders. He turned, but saw no one. He returned to Yume only to see a man in her place.

"Tsk tsk. No kissing on the first date." Xellos wagged his finger at the man before blasting him with a quick spell.

"Xelly..." Xellos turned when he heard that voice.

"Hikari?" Xellos smiled when he saw the woman.

"It's not our fight." Hikari informed, taking his arm.

"But I..." Xellos looked down.

"Yes. That was rather stupid, but..." Hikari shook her head. "She has to do this by herself."

"I see." Xellos frowned.

"Come." Hikari teleported them to a different location in the area. They could watch, but not interfere.

Yume glanced about her. She'd have to thank Xellos for that one. She had to focus! She had a mission to accomplish. Upon seeing Zelgadis, Ame, and Lina, her heart sank. Had she already failed? She rushed over to the group. She was a healer. There had to be something she could do.

"Zelgadis-chan." Yume stared down at the wounded man.

"Run..." Zelgadis struggled up, reaching for his sword. He didn't want to see her get hurt.

"Zel..." Yume's eyes fell upon Ame. "Guardians... no..."

The child was surely dead. The number of arrows protruding from her body was a ridiculous amount. Something happened inside Yume. Something snapped. In her mind flashes of a little boy passed.

"No.. NO! I will not allow this!" Yume stood, turning to face her newly unstunned opponent. "Don't worry, Zel. Leave everything to me."

"Yume?" Zelgadis reached out, as though to stop her, but the arrow in his side made that act quite painful.

"Zel..." Lina choked out.

"Lina!" Zelgadis's eyes passed over his daughter, his heart shattering before they could reach his wife. "No... No.. Ame."

Zelgadis took the child into his arms, rocking her back and forth. Tears fell from his eyes. Lina turned her head to face her weeping husband. Seeing the figure he rocked, tears fell from her eyes as well.

"You have committed an act that is unforgivable." Yume's hair gathered around her, as though floating upon the breeze. "For that, you will join your brother."

"If I win, fair one, you're mine." Langston readied his bow.

"I assure you, you will get no such pleasure." Yume readied a holy arrow.

The two fired at the same time. It didn't take a genius to see that the holy arrow would destroy the arrows used by Langston. He smiled, tossing aside his bow. He pulled his sword and motioned for Yume to come forward. She pulled a sword from the air and neared. Her eyes were set and showed nothing. Zelgadis was frightened by how she appeared. This wasn't the Yume he knew.

The battle commenced, both fighters landing a good blow. Langston's attacks were swift and harsh. Yume met them and returned them with equal force. It was surprising that this white mage could so magnificently wield a sword. The battle reached its climax, Yume supporting a wound on her right arm, Langston with a cut left cheek. As the blades collided, both shattered. Langston smiled.

"Have you a trick left, dear mage, or should I take you now?" Langston pressed a trigger on the hilt and removed the rest of the broken blade. "Ready?"

Langston said something under his breath. Upon uttering those words, a dark beam exited the hilt.

"Sword of Darkness." Yume recognized the blade. "Great."

Yume tossed aside her sword. It was of no use to her. All her major magic weapons weren't kept in hammer space, and for a good reason. It wasn't wise to allow her sisters unlimited access to a mighty arsenal. AstonFire had taught her that. Langston's smile grew, and he went after Yume. She went on the defensive, trying to draw him away from Lina and Zelgadis. Maybe her cousin could... No, this was her mission. No assistance could be given.

Thinking about such topics wasn't good. Langston managed to land a blow, and what a painful blow it was. Yume fell to the ground, grasping her side. That had hurt! She saw him move in and gritted her teeth as she did a back flip. She couldn't sit still. That'd give him the advantage he'd need to defeat her and kill Lina and Zelgadis. One fatality was more than enough.

Fate just wasn't on Yume side. As she dodged and moved back from the next barrage of attacks, she tripped over a rock. Langston's sword was fast approaching. She didn't have time to get away without getting hurt. It was time to decide. Which could she afford, a battered leg or a battered arm?

Zelgadis saw that Yume was stuck. He couldn't just sit by and let her get killed. She had always been there for him. He had to help her. Rising, he felt something in his pocket. He pulled it out and sadly smiled.

"The Sword of Light." Zelgadis knew that this was their only chance. "I love you, Lina. Live."

"Zel?" Lina could only watch in horror as her husband thrust himself between Yume and Langston, absorbing the hit.

"Zel-chan!" Yume gasped, catching him as he fell on her.

"Here..." Zelgadis handed her the Sword of Light. "Win...for..us."

"Zel-chan!" Yume cried as his eyes fell shut. "No! No!!"

Zelgadis? Not Zelgadis! No... Not Zelgadis! But it was.. It had been. He'd jumped in front of the oncoming assault. And why? Why had he done such a thing? Yume gently set him down beside her. She stood, fingering what he'd given her.

"Light be granted unto me. Come forth and bring us victory." Yume softly said, entering a battle stance.

"Shall we continue?" Langston laughed.

Yume only nodded, the light beam becoming a blade. They were even now. It was time to show him that her power was greater. It was time to show him that no one messed with those she held dear.

~~

Xellos looked off toward the distance. He could see that it was now truly light vs. darkness. Who would win, though?

"Hikari..." Xellos wasn't quite sure as to what he should say.

"No words." Hikari put a finger to his lips. "If she loses, I am lost as well."

~~

The battle had been decided. The final blow had been given. Both sides had paid a terrible price. Finally, though, it was over. It was all over. The Sword of Light fell to the ground. Yume followed, head bowed. Blood dripped down her face and landed upon the grass. She took deep breaths. Had she done it? Had she actually defeated him?

"Bravo." Langston choked out before falling upon his face. "I concede."

Yume turned her gaze to Zelgadis. She could already see her sister coming for Langston. Zelgadis was barely breathing.

"Zel-chan." Yume closed her eyes, preparing for a major cure spell.

"Don't.... waste.... it.... on me. Lina... help... her." Zelgadis's raspy voice requested.

"Zel..." Yume didn't want to leave him.

"Go to her.... Save her... for me." Zelgadis raised his hand.

"A..alright." Yume took Zelgadis's hand and clasped it in her own. "Gentle breeze, sing your melody. Ease his pain, I pray."

"Thank... you..." Zelgadis's hand fell and his eyes slowly closed.

Yume turned her head aside, feeling totally defeated. She forced herself up and went over to Lina. She picked up the Sword of Light along the way. One shouldn't just leave such things laying around. Lina stared up at her, her face pale due to blood loss. Yume's heart stopped when she saw the woman.

"Guardians..." Could this day get any worse?

"Yu..me... Zel..he..he's...isn't he?" Lina greeted.

"Yes." Yume bowed her head.

"Ame..." Tears fell from Lina's eyes. "Am..I..?"

"No... I won't allow it." Yume turned to her patient. "Guardians..."

Yume didn't quite know where to begin. It was almost hopeless. Finally, she regained her focus. The spells were cast and Lina fell into blissful sleep. Kanashimi appeared and took Ame to the other side. Zelgadis came next. Kanashimi then neared Lina.

"No..." Yume furiously shook her head. "No!"

"Gomen nasai... I must." Kanashimi knelt beside Lina and placed her hands upon the woman's abdomen.

"No..." Yume bowed her head, tears falling.

"You did what you could." Kanashimi tried to comfort before vanishing with the spirit of the unborn child.

Onna no Hi watched in horror from the doorway as her cousin raised her head to the clouds and screamed out. She couldn't believe herself the sight that greeted her. Zel was dead. Ame was... she was mutilated. Lina... Lina was recovering, but Kanashimi had taken the child. Another also lay in the yard, dead. Beside him the Sword of Darkness. What had happened in so short a period of time?

~~

Xellos lowered his head in shame. He had caused this. He knew he had caused this. It was all his fault, surely. Hikari wiped away a tear that had slipped from her barriers.

"It was a great battle." She finally commented.

"It's my fault she lost." Xellos looked away. "It's all my fault. I shouldn't have postponed Zelgadis or anything. It's because of me Lina-sama lost her child."

"Children." Hikari corrected. "Losing a child is the worst thing a mother can go through. I only pray that..."

"What?" Xellos was worried by Hikari's tone.

"One close to me once lost a child. It severely weakened her spirit, causing an illness to take control of her body. In the end, she perished. I was powerless to do anything. Lina has a darkness within her, waiting for such an opportunity to arise." Hikari sadly shook her head. "Why, Unmei?"

~~

Lina slowly opened her eyes. Yume looked down upon her. Everything flooded back to Lina. Tears ran down her cheeks, as though they'd never end. Yume's eyes, too, shone with tears. Yume held the woman's hand, a gentle prayer on her lips.

"Gourry... Zel... Ame.. and....." Lina couldn't bear it. She just wanted to die.

"I'm sorry..." Yume could think of no other words. She knew how Lina felt.

"Yume..." Lina shook her head, once again seeing all as she once had. "Why?"

"I hold no proper answer to that." Yume whispered. "I've searched for one for many hours."

"What now?" Lina's eyes were desperate for an answer to cling to.

"You go on." Yume answered. "You continue onward."

"Yume..." A silver haired woman appeared in the room. "You must return now. You've been in this realm for too long."

"Unmei... I can't leave. She'll be all alone. Can't you send someone here?" Yume protested.

"I fear I cannot." Unmei shook her head.

"No." Yume turned to Lina and squeezed the girl's hand. "Lina.. I have to go. I'm so sorry. I'll return as soon as I can. I'll send someone down. I'll do whatever I can. You just have to promise me, though.. Don't do anything irrational. If you kill yourself, you'll never again be able to see your loves. Please, don't fall to the darkness within. The voice will sound welcoming. It will offer you what you need to hear offered. Don't listen, though."

"Yume." Unmei called.

"You have to go? No!" Lina firmly grasped Yume's hand "Don't leave me all alone. Please."

"Lina.." Yume was being pulled in two different directions.

"It's time, Yume. I will permit you to visit tomorrow. How's that?" Unmei offered.

"I'll be back tomorrow. Promise." Yume smiled at Lina. "Please, hold on till then."

"A..alright. Just don't leave me alone." Lina nodded, lessening her grip upon Yume's hand.

Unmei disappeared with Yume. Lina stared at where they once stood. She looked about the quiet house. Everyone was gone. Everything was...gone. Her eyes fell upon an item on the table. She stood and neared it. It was the Sword of Light. She was sure of it.

~~

Kanashimi and Hikari turned to Unmei, a not so happy look on their faces.

"You deliberately did that. You know that it is unwise to leave her alone." Kanashimi spat.

"It was Fate's will." Unmei replied.

"I doubt that." Hikari joined her sister.

Onna no Hi appeared in the room, shaking her head.

"It's no good... She's not with us right now." She informed.

"Unmei, if she.. So help me, I'll kill you." Kanashimi vanished from the area in a burst of red feathers.

"How could you? If she... I'll be the one to kill you." Hikari glared at the woman before vanishing in a puff of black smoke.

"What would you have me do? Hm? Who am I to defy Fate?" Unmei questioned.

"Who are you to assume you know the will of Fate?" Onna no Hi returned before vanishing in a flash of silver and gold.

"Have they all turned against me?" Unmei sighed, throwing up her arms.

~~

"Zelgadis... Ame...little one... I... I failed you. I failed all of you." Yume wept, staring at the three markers under the tree she was knelt before. "By the Guardians, how could I have been so ill prepared?"

"Anata no sei ja nai.19" Xellos whispered.

"You shouldn't be here." Yume quickly dried her tears.

"I travel all planes. This one, surely, is no different." Xellos knelt beside Yume.

"Are you so certain of that?" Yume knew a few things that not even Xellos knew.

"I won't stay long, then." Xellos replied. "I'm... sorry. If I hadn't been so bent on winning that 'trivial fight', surely little of this would have happened."

"Unmei said it was Fate's will." Yume sadly looked at the markers. "If Fate has a desire such as this, I fear what our next mission will be."

"What's your story? You always looked at Ame with such sad eyes. Your kiss also tells of... something." Xellos turned to face Yume.

"It is not time for my tale to be told." Yume answered.

"Too bad. I was really wanting to hear it." Xellos slightly frowned. "Langston said that Yume was not your true name. Was he being truthful?"

"Yes." Yume nodded.

"Well... I'll leave you be, Yume." Xellos stood to go. "Perhaps I'm not deserving of your sister, but if only men deserving of the woman they loved were to be allowed to be near that woman, who was it that hurt you so?"

"Sore wa himitsu desu." Yume managed to say.

"I see." Xellos sadly smiled. "One day our secrets will be bared. Think we'll be ready?"

"We'll see." Yume whispered.

~~

Lina walked out the door and entered the quiet night. She slowly walked along the spring, the moon shining just right upon the waters.

"I can make you feel better..." A voice whispered.

"Who's there?" Lina looked about.

"I can make the pain disappear." The voice continued.

"Who are you?" Lina demanded to know.

"I can make you forget the hurt and sorrow." The voice cared not to answer Lina's questions.

"Yume said not to trust you." Lina quickened her pace.

"Then why are you so eager to listen, child?" The voice inquired.

"Leave me be!" Lina began to run.

"You can't escape me. I'm within you. I'm a part of you. You and I are one in the same." The voice informed.

"No..." Lina shook her head, covering her ears. "You're lying!"

"Think that if you must. I've merely come to keep you company. They left you all alone." The voice sighed. "What will you do if they don't return? Hm?"

"If they don't return?" Lina slowly lowered her hands from her ears. "What if they don't return?!" "Yes... What then, my dear? What if you're left here all alone?" The voice's tone was gentle.

"I.. I don't want to be all alone." Lina hugged herself. "No... not all alone."

"Let me help you, my child. Let me be your crutch. Just say the words, and I'll make all your pain vanish. You'll never be alone as long as I'm here. I promise you." The voice sounded so welcoming.

"But Yume..." Lina was almost hook, line, and sinker.

"Where is this Yume you speak of? Did she not leave you alone? What if she is just a dream?" The voice was growing a little impatient.

"Just a dream..." Lina frowned. "What if she's just a dream?"

"Yes, my child. Come to me. Let me embrace you. Let me help you feel less alone." The voice cooed.

A melody filled the air. Lina had to make a decision. The voice sounded so welcoming and comforting. It sounded just like all she needed. Hadn't Yume said that, though?

~Come forth prison, seal me away. Come forth prison. I dare you to stay. Laugh at me. Cry for me. Call to me. Come see me. Today is the day that all laugh and mock. I've lost yet another. Another hope shot. Another dream dashed. Another wish shattered. Where must I go now? Where should I go now? Lost are the days of long ago. Lost am I... forever. Lost is the girl I would have been. Lost is the woman I am.~ Lina stared down at the waters, her own reflection a stranger to her. ~Cry for me. Call to me. Come see me. Pray for me.~ Lina looked up at the sky, weakly smiling at the glowing moon. ~The moon shines so brightly. Might I too join the stars? Are they in Heaven? Will I join them as well? What happens to ladies like me? Will I be lost? Can I be freed? Forgotten are tales of long ago. Forgotten am I... eternal. Forgotten is the child I would have had. Forgotten is the child I lost.~ Lina stared down at her abdomen, a tear rolling down her face. ~Call to me. Come see me. Pray for me. Dream of me. Dreams, oh so haunting. Yet, also taunting. Did I lose all, or did all lose me? Magic forbidden, still no good to me. Was it all for naught?~ Lina recalled her battle with Galnor and how she'd barely won it. ~Missed are dreams of long ago. Missed am I... alas. Missed is the is the life I would have had. Missed is the life I led.~ Lina remembered her wedding day and how foolish she must have looked. She also remembered how she and Zelgadis had been happy for the past five years. A vision of her family all being dead as well as the few survivors of the Slayers crew then entered her mind. ~Come see me. Pray for me. Dream of me. Wait for me...~ Lina had made her decision. "A..alright."

"Good..." The voice sounded quite evil now.

Lina was engulfed in darkness, her gaze never leaving the moon. She'd join them soon, wouldn't she? She'd be free soon, right? Lina could think no more once the darkness reached her head. The shine in her eyes faded and was replaced by a cruel gleam. The new Lina laughed sinisterly. It was time to have some fun with this new power.

~~

"Shimatta." Hikari turned to her sister.

"Great." Kanashimi shook her head. "Think Unmei's happy now?"

"We have to tell her." Hikari looked over to the praying Yume.

"Yes, and then she'll have to tell Zelgadis." Kanashimi sighed.

"Will this cycle of pain never end? I'm starting to get sick of it." Hikari kicked a pebble.

"I think we all are." Kanashimi replied.

The two approached Yume. Yume sensed them coming and ended her prayer. She was afraid to turn around. She knew that they only had bad news to deliver to her. Did she really want to hear it? What if Lina had... Surely she wouldn't have. She'd promised to visit, but... hadn't she, herself, given in to something at one point?

"She's turned, hasn't she?" Yume softly said.

"I fear so." Kanashimi answered.

"Guardians be with us." Yume stood and vanished.

"Think she'll be okay?" Kanashimi inquired

"I... I'm not sure." Hikari sadly bowed her head. "Poor Zel, Ame, and the little one. Now this? What is Fate planning?"

~~

Lina laughed. The village lay in ruins, burning brightly against the dark night. The screams of the villagers filled the air as did their hopeless rushing about. She glanced about her, raising her hand once more. She was invincible. They couldn't stop her.

"Fireball!" She sent another spell toward the village's center.

Lina's eyes flashed as the fireball hit. This destruction was magnificent. She'd have to test out a few of her newer spells on the next town. She turned her back to the blaze, laughing still, as she exited the burning village. It was time to have some more fun.

~~

"What should we do, sis? Lina's gone all evil on us." Onna no Hi softly asked her sister.

"I'm not sure. I guess we can only do what we can." Onna no Mizu vanished from the area.

"Gee, that was a great answer." Onna no Hi sarcastically replied, looking around. "Hm?"

Onna no Hi spotted a figure in the distance. Curious as to who it was, she neared. She soon found that it was her cousin. She was crying.

"Zels? What's wrong? You're not still beating yourself up over everything, are you?" She greeted.

"Oh, Solo... It's all my fault!" Yume cried.

"Zels..." Onna no Hi didn't know what she should do.

"I couldn't save Jedite! I wasn't strong enough. Zelgadis.. I'm the one that cured him! If it wasn't for me, he'd never have been wounded in that battle! He'd still be alive! And Lina..." Yume fell to her knees, tears trailing behind her in the breeze. "I could not help her either."

"Zels..." Onna no Hi knelt beside her cousin and placed a hand on her shoulder. "You did all you could."

"Did I?" She challenged.

"Yes." Onna no Hi nodded. "I know you did. This was just Fate's choice."

"Then what good am I to Fate?" Yume questioned, vanishing.

"Zels... It's time for us all to remove the shield created. It's been up for far too long." Onna no Hi stood and turned toward the rising sun. "My name is Solo, Onna no Hi no longer. Shadow... it's all up to you."

~~

Xellos stared at the scene before him. Many fires lined the distance. The new day dawning was one full of destruction. He was getting quite full from all the negative emotions, but that feeling only left him feeling so empty. Lina was doing all this. He'd usually get a kick out of such an event, but this left him feeling guilty. He had to do something.

"Are you thinking of being courageous, Xel?" Hikari greeted as she appeared beside him on the tree limb.

"Are you calling me a usual coward?" Xellos returned.

"Maybe." Hikari turned her gaze to the various fire sites. "She's on the loose. Doesn't waste any time."

"No. None at all." Xellos frowned. "I have to stop this."

"You think you can?" Hikari softly asked.

"I know a spell or two. I also have a few tricks up my sleeve." Xellos answered.

"I expected nothing less of the trickster priest, but..." Hikari looked down. "I know the secret behind your 'power' ideal. It's a pathetic one too."

"So I've now become the pathetic trickster priest." Xellos concluded.

"Yes." Hikari was going to give no argument to that. She knew she was right.

"As lovely as ever, I see." Xellos turned to Hikari, a mischievous smile on his face. "Will you give me a night to remember before I rush to my possible death? A true hero's farewell?"

"Since when did you become a hero, my dear Xellos?" Hikari stood and sighed to herself. "Save you meaningless offers for someone else. I know you don't mean them. I won't be your newest fling."

"Your sister said that I wasn't worthy enough of you. I'm starting to wonder if it's not the other way around." Xellos shifted slightly on the limb, his eyes shadowed.

"Perhaps it is that way. Who am I to judge, right? I'm just a servant of some force I don't even agree with. Go ahead and get yourself killed. See if I care." Hikari glared at the man.

"I think I will." Xellos decided, leaping down from the limb.

"Be a fool, then." Hikari lowered her head, feeling a little badly about what she had said. "Rush in for the woman you love."

~~

"Guardians, is the end finally here? Shad rushes in, tears streaming down her face, for only the Guardians know why. Zels is... well, somewhere. She's at an all time low right now. Lina's evil and killing so many people that I may have to ask for help. Yeah. This is just great." Kanashimi looked to the silent woman at the table. "What do you think of it all, Unmei? This is more your fault than ours. I think I'm quite safe in assuming that."

"I feel just as badly about it all as you do, Phoenix. Can't you see that I've only done as I was ordered?" Unmei bitterly drank from her cup, tired of being the one everyone blamed.

"So, we can stop the charade we've had up for well over five years? Are we allowed to again be ourselves, because I'm sick of being the cause of everyone's sadness and despair. It's a lousy job, Unmei." Phoenix returned her gaze out the window. "I just hope we can clean up this mess. It won't be easy."

"No one said that this job would be an easy one." Unmei pointed out.

"It wasn't like we were interviewed before we were hired." Phoenix replied.

"You were chosen nevertheless."

"Well, being the chosen ones has caused way more harm upon us and others than any good, in my opinion."

"That is only your opinion."

"I'm almost willing to bet that Fate agrees with me."

~~

A figured appeared in the area Zelgadis had been resting in. He raised himself up on one elbow to see who the visitor was. When he saw that it was Yume, he was overjoyed. He didn't think he'd see her again. He rushed over to her, glad to see someone that he knew in the quiet place. He grew concerned when he saw tears falling from her eyes.

"Yume-sama... why are you crying?" Zelgadis gently greeted, placing a hand on her shoulder.

"You still approach me? I failed you." Yume shrugged off Zelgadis's hand. "I am worthy not of your company. Please leave me be."

"Yume..." Zelgadis turned to go, but stopped. "You didn't fail me. You at least tried. If Fate decided that..."

"Fate is indeed cruel to have me think myself an angel that can save those I treasure." Yume's voice was stronger now. "Lina turned, my child .She is on our side no longer. The darkness has won her over. Am I still so innocent of fault?"

"She..." Zelgadis fell to his knees. "I should have done something. That cursed sword. I should never have taken it from Amelia."

"I am the one that was too late in saving you." Yume looked up to the sky and sighed. "This self-pity is so pathetic and weak. What's become of me? Who am I?"

"Yume-sama?" Zelgadis was frightened by her words.

"My name isn't Yume, Zelgadis-chan." Yume turned to face Zelgadis. "My name is Zelda."

"Zelda?" Zelgadis arched an eyebrow. "Why didn't you tell me before?"

"You were a child when I first met you, dear. You thought me some dream. Your parents considered me an imaginary friend of yours. I guess it never came up." Zelda shrugged. "Not that it matters any more. Guardians, how weak I've become. When did I become so... so... human? No... something else."

"Has my death caused you to lose your gentleness?" Zelgadis's voice was barely audible.

"Was I gentle?" Zelda weakly smiled. "I'm worrying you, aren't I, dearest? I guess I just needed your worried face to bring back something I lost."

Zelda embraced Zelgadis and stroked his hair.

"I first came to you when I was lost. My first born had been taken from me. Your reminded me of him. He wanted to grow up strong and become a master with a sword." Zelda informed. "You still remind me of him. Zelgadis- chan, I'm sorry I couldn't save you or keep Lina-chan from turning. I promise, though, to help set it all right."

"Zelda-sama..." Zelgadis was glad she was back to her old self.

"Zelgadis-chan... I always wanted to say this to you... I just... I dunno." Zelda let go of Zelgadis and looked into his eyes. "Would you call me.. omah?"

"Omah..." Zelgadis smiled. "Alright, omah."

"Thank you, Zelgadis-chan. I feel much better now." Zelda stood and held her hand out to Zelgadis. "Emotions aren't too bad, ne? I don't blame you for being careful with them, letting your shield down around close company only. It took you a while to trust me. If you could do it all over again, though, would it still be the same?"

"I don't know." Zelgadis accepted Zelda's hand and stood. "I want to say no, but it'll probably be the same."

"I see." Zelda squeezed Zelgadis's hand. "Come. I think it's time you and Gourry met again."

"He's here?" Zelgadis questioned.

"Yes." Zelda nodded. 20

~~

Shadow stood in the field and sighed. She didn't know how she'd gotten where she was, but she'd gotten there nevertheless. She stared at the nearby cottage. There was something familiar about the place. A woman appeared behind Shadow. She smiled at the girl.

"You're troubled, my dear cousin." She softly greeted. "Will you tell me what troubles you, or should I let you be so you may sort out your own troubles?"

"Valery..." Shadow smiled when she saw the woman. "You've come to me? Of all people, Val, I thought Solo would be your pick. No offense."

"None taken, dear one." Valery assured. "Actually, this is a place I am fond of. I stay here many hours of the day, watching over the inhabitants of that cottage."

"It's a familiar cottage." Shadow commented.

"It should be." Valery replied. "That cottage holds in it what was, and still is, dearest to my sisters-in-law."

"I see." Shadow bowed her head. "Then there are also dear ones to me inside."

"Yes." Valery nodded. "Shadow, Xellos is confused. He has feelings for both you and Lina. He knows that his feelings for Lina have a small chance of actually being returned. He also knows that he loves you, but isn't exactly sure in what way. He plays around with the many possibilities in his mind, but you've allowed for not one to be real."

"Knowing Xelly, that's a good thing." Shadow weakly laughed.

"Yes. He can be... strange." Valery agreed. "However, you have to be there for him when he goes in for the final battle."

"Must I?" Shadow really didn't know if she was up to it.

"You know that as well as I, dear one. It's your mission." Valery patted Shadow's head. "Besides, you know it in your heart to be right."

"Valery... You died too young." Shadow informed, staring up at her cousin.

"Perhaps." Valery could say no more.

~~

The blonde turned and smiled when he saw his friend. Phoenix and Zelda could only smile as the two embraced. It was a start to reuniting the crew. Would more members enter the club, though?

"Zel! Wow, you're not the stone thingy anymore." Gourry greeted.

"I see death has done little to improve your intellect." Zelgadis commented.

"Whatever you say. So, how'd you get unstoned?" Gourry inquired.

"Yu...Zelda cured me." Zelgadis motioned to the woman behind him.

"Ah." Gourry nodded. "Phoenix has told me about you. I was surprised when I heard how well you fought. You look almost like an eternal bride... or something."

Zelda could only smile, laughing slightly. Her sister joined her. This union was a good one, but they knew that what was coming could bring more to the party than they wanted. Even so, if it was Fate's will, so be it.

~~

Lightning filled the area. Another town had be demolished. Lina laughed. Her laugh echoed the area, making many flee in terror. This only made her laugh more.

"Such weaklings. Truly, so frail and small. It's... funny." Lina paused and sighed. "It's also starting to get... unamusing. Aw well."

Lina aimed and cast her dragon slave. The town was gone in an instant.

"What challenges now remain, hm?" Lina started to fly away, but was stopped by a darkly clad figure.

"How about you and I have a bout? It'll be fun. I assure you." Xellos offered.

"A challenge? Sure. Why not?" Lina shrugged, laughing her cold, cruel laugh once more. "Come to my lair, then, foolish one. Let's meet at... dawn."

"I shall." Xellos vanished from the area.

"Good." A dark smile formed on Lina's lips.

~~

And so a challenge has been issued. Will Xellos's plan work? Slowly, but surely, the mystery surrounding those that are teamed up with Unmei and Fate has started to unravel. What still remains unsaid? Zelgadis and Gourry have again met up and are greatful for each other's company. The final battle is on its way. Are you prepared? Thus ends chapter two. Would you like to save? Thank you. Please insert chapter three. ^_^ Farewell and pleasant journeys.







1. Phyl is hard to write, seeing as he's in... how many eps that we've seen? Yeah, I never really thought of him as the match maker type, but... now... when I think about it... And as for talking ten hours straight. C'mon, he's one of those justice...um... fanatics. Surely that has aided him in some way.

2. C'mon, Angsty isn't all angst and no fun. Besides, I had to throw that in. Can't you just see Solo doin' that? You can, ne? I mean, Shad did say that So could have Zel, but, not in this story. Gomen, So-chan. ::pauses::: Hmm.. Freudian slip? Eh, by now surely all lil hints *Valery even said it, c'mon* has ya knowing that this gal's gotta be Solo. If not...um... Remember on the Ranma 1/2 RPG when Ryoga transforms to P-chan, Akane's all oblivious. Yeah. Um... act like that. 'Kay?

3. You all know that Xelly is evil enough to pull something like that. I think that's the most in character I've had him in this whole, so far two part, thing. Demo, what is the true nature of Xellos? He's a trickster, but isn't there also a softer side? Heh..

4. He wouldn't want for certain people to miss the wedding.

5. Don't kill me, Shad! Wait. Read this to the end. I mean, the very end. Please. It'll only be a three, maybe four, part thing. Give me a chance, please.

6. Yes. She's sleeping. She is sleeping a deep sleep and dreaming of bishounen. It's true, it's true.

7. You can tell that I want to be right on the dot. No approximations at all. Nope. ::rolls eyes:: If you believe that... I pity you.

8. It would have been just so funny if the messenger had been the stork, ne? I just thought of that too. Aw well.

9. Yeah, like Xellos kidnapping you and Hikari. No biggie, right?

10. He hadn't heard from her. Sure, he'd seen her almost every single day, but she never spoke to him. She just..well.. slept. And that's the end of this chapter of Nabiki and AG's Magical Loopholes. I hope you had fun, kiddies. There will be a quiz next week. Study!

11. Well, at least he waited until you were half awake to try.

12. Wow. You go, girl. That took some guts, ne?

13. Yeah.

14. Gomen, Hikari-chan. Dang. Don't you just wish these two could get it together?

15. Eh... I guess the messenger was sorta like the stork. Cool. ^_^

16. I really do hope I'm not rushing things. Sorry, guys, I had to throw that small paragraph in. Yes, it had nonessential stuff, but the story was getting so... serious and gloomy. Yeah, that's pretty much the tone, but... You know what I'm trying to say, right?

17. Zelgadis stopped being all heartless facade-ish somewhere, didn't he? Well, wouldn't married life do that to ya? Couldn't it? Um... it's my story and he can act as he wants to?

18. What is it with guys kissing her today?

19. It's not your fault. (At least, that's what I think it means. I got it from a Sailor Jupiter song.)

20. :::bows down, head lowered.::: I beg your eternal forgiveness. Guardians, when did I lose Zel? Hmm... I think he went so OOC it wasn't funny towards... somewhere. Gosh... I feel so bad. Who am I writing him as? ::sits up and thinks.::: Zel sounds like... someone. Um... I just don't really recall who. Heh. Dang. I started this story after a Slayers marathon, ne? I think I lost the characters somewhere. Gomen! I really am sorry. I think I'll hafta go back and rewrite some of this after I can next view lots of eps of Slayers. It'll be a while, though, so.. eh. Maybe I can get my act together by part three, though... I think part three is just as screwed. Heh. ^_^ ' :::bows down once more.::: Again, I'm sorry. Please forgive me. I'll try harder from now on. Must think like Slayers characters! Curse that Digimon. I started to write someone like Ken (sp?) I think it was Xelly...heh. ^_^ ' Zelgadis is more... Shadey? Eh, he sounds Ken-ish too. Guardians. Well, Monster Rancher hasn't affected me too much, has it? I need some Slayers eps. That's just it. End of rant.