I am so sorry I couldn't update. I'll be putting up the next few chapters
within the next few weeks. Please, I've been really busy, but I'll do my
best to upload new chapters. Meanwhile, enjoy!
Intermezzo
Jyou sat up in bed, sweating furiously from his nightmares. Taking deep breaths, he gazed around the room and sank back into the tangled pile of blankets and pillows. A small mage light formed, bobbing slightly as the round ball of magical fire illuminated the room dimly, banishing the looming shadows and darkness in the room, revealing only familiar mundane objects where horrifying nightmares had once lurked.
"Your majesty?" Marie was in the doorway, pale and like a ghost in her white nightgown.
"Please, you may come in, Marie and call me Jyou," he said gently and she stepped in carefully. "What is the matter?"
"Just a dream, but it was troubling." Jyou got out of his bed, slipping on his dressing gown over his nightshirt, walking over to the fireplace. He stoked the dying embers in the fire with a murmured word and a flash of blue fire, at which flames leapt up merrily in the fireplace, crackling softly and giving off steady heat and light. "Do tell please, I am listening." He motioned for her to sit by his large armchair in another comfortable chair and she did so carefully.
"I fear for my life here," she said quietly. "I am not who you think I am."
"Really?" Jyou mildly raised an eyebrow.
"I must leave this place."
"Why, and who are you?" He gently grasped her hand.
"The crown princess of Tachikawa." Her voice was a bare whisper.
"What?" He looked at her in surprise. "My betrothed?"
"The one and the same, I have to leave, there's no point in me staying here." She slowly got up, but he stopped her.
"Please, it is dangerous out there, there's a solution to this; we'll find it together, Mimi."
She looked at him with tear filled brown eyes and threw herself at him, embracing him. He comforted her, feeling something stir in his heart for her.
~*~
Saraia shook off the light trance that served elves as sleep and got out of bed. Pulling on a simple, comfortable tunic and leggings, she slipped out, bow and quiver in hand. Out in the archery targets, she fired round after round of arrows, face creased in concentration, but not for the target. Thoughts swarmed through her mind as she fired perfect shots despite the conglomeration of scattered thoughts and emotions in her mind. Schooling her mind like she had been taught many a year before; she organized them carefully, coaxing them into various parts of her memory, all while still shooting. It was like meditation for her; surprising as it seemed.
"Something troubles you, my cousin?" Garlath was outside and he was watching her, dressed simply like she was.
"Nothing, I have not been in the company of elves for many a year," she said softly, walking over and jerking out the arrows.
"Ah, I understand." He put a light hand on her shoulder.
"I have been dreaming, about the twelve chosen ones. I know who they are, and their path is frozen by destiny. As is mine. I will die to defend them."
"How are you so sure? The future is a fluid thing, changing easily."
"Not this one, my cousin, not this one. If they die, our world is in peril. They must unlock the dragon. And I will die so that they and many others may live. I will do that willingly." She gazed at him then turned away. "I am going to rest for now, I feel I will not be able to many times later."
"No, come with me. I think you should drink some of the Water of Cronos and gaze into it."
"That is dangerous, even for elves," she said, looking up sharply. "Many a strong and wise man had fallen into the depths of madness under the influence of the water. It is a double edged blade and unreliable in the long run."
"Nonetheless, it may be useful. Come along." She followed him, bringing her bow and quiver strapped to her back. He led her to a graceful fountain; water trickling into a basin perched on a pedestal carved to resemble curled vines. "Drink, then look into the water, but do not touch it."
He gave her a smooth silver cup and she held it to the falling water. Carefully, she drank it, the water unusually sweet and cool. But as it cascaded down her throat, it burned her stomach and left a bitter aftertaste dwelling in her mouth. She fell over the basin, using her still aware and fading reflexes to stop herself, holding onto the edges of the round bowl to stop from falling into the water. The cup clattered to the ground but the female elf was too drawn by the visions she saw inside of the bowl to notice.
She saw bits of her past, scattered memories that flashed past quickly. Then she saw a group of people, numbering fourteen; heading toward a tall pyramid shaped building in midst of a desert, sun blazing down without mercy. Then it changed to twelve in a circle, a pentagram in the center of the circle. Multicolored lights flashed from each of the people in turn, writhing together and forming a magnificent dragon of light that plunged into the center of the circle and the pentagram. A pedestal formed with an orb on it, a large, perfectly spherical orb that was colored the most beautiful shade of blue in the world, the color of the night sky just after sunset or the vast oceans on the night of a full moon.
Then it disappeared, going back. It showed the twelve being swallowed by darkness, one by one, crying out in pain. An immense serpent made of shadows crept over the land, jaws open and revealing teeth as long as lances and as sharp as swords. As it flew over, devouring light, Saraia saw horrible scenes. Forests being destroyed, beings of different races falling in battle with their blood staining the ground crimson and other hues, whole families and villages massacred. Their screams of pain and all sorts of horrible sounds reached her ears and she tried to draw away but she was too entranced. The serpent then devoured everything, the land, corpses, and those still living, as stifling darkness covered all.
This is what happens if you fail, a voice whispered in her mind and she saw more visions.
An attack of strange creatures surrounding a group of people and she herself was there, yelling something as she shot arrows, bringing down a creature every time. She then erected a domed shield of green and silver and the other thirteen ran, some hesitating. Dropping the shield when they were gone, she faced the creatures with a grim face and an aimed bow.
"For the sake of Light!" she screamed and plunged into battle.
Time seemed to slow in Saraia's eyes as she watched as she fought madly and when an arrow pierced her body, she fought on, ignoring the blood that spurted from the wound. Then a warrior in black came, swinging a broadsword and decimating the creatures as he guarded her back. He turned and the observer could see who it was. It was Dia. The army gone, she fell into his arms. Evidently it was too late for her and the real Saraia could hear the image's last words:
"Save this world for me in the name of light and shadows, my friend."
Then her eyes closed. Dia cradled the body for a few moments; tears trickling down his cheeks and the image disappeared, leaving Saraia looking at her own reflection in the water of the basin.
"I will die," she said quietly, and walked away.
If Saraia seemed ever so slightly melancholy when she was at breakfast, it was generally ignored. She walked out onto a balcony with a splendid view of the city.
"The water is not accurate, cousin." Garlath walked up behind her. "There is a chance you will not."
"I saw what would happen if we fail," she said flatly, then turned to face him. "All of my life, Garlath, I have been treated like a fragile object. Ever since Mother died, Father was focusing more on my brother and to his own life, retreating into the past when he was not training my brother. The reason I left was because I wanted to prove my worth, and not just as a princess. If I die, I would rather die fighting to defend my friends and this world, then live all alone and ignorant, in these halls without a purpose." Her eyes had a new light in them, knowledgeable and fierce.
"Very well, my cousin, I will help you and your friends on the way," the Elf lord said quietly, blue eyes serious and sad.
"I thank you," she said, clasping his hand and he bent over to press a light kiss on her forehead. "Do not forget your people, Saraia, and your family."
"Never will I," she whispered. "Never, in death or in life I will never do it, not while I have my own mind and breathe freely."
The singing of the elves grew sadder, bittersweet in its beauty upon her words. She gazed out, ready to embrace her fate with open arms.
"Do send delegations to perhaps discuss matters, Princess," Garlath said, solemnly saluting the riders, freshly provisioned, despite the short ride to the capitol city, and given gifts.
"I promise I will," Hikari said, smiling and adjusting the bracelets she had been given, silver and turquoise, created to look like carved blue lilies alternating with silver leaves.
"We can never thank you enough," Koushiro said gratefully, a waterproof satchel of scrolls and books on his saddle.
"It was partly for the sake of my cousin here," the elf lord chuckled softly, eyes twinkling as they gazed at Saraia, who gave him a slight smile.
"We must leave quickly. I fear Taichi will not be happy hearing about orcs in the forests," Dia said somewhat gruffly. Though the elves were always courteous, they were somewhat distant with him.
"Dia," Iori said slightly warningly and the shadow being gave the young man a look that clearly stated, "What are you criticizing me for? I am older than you, you know."
"Thank you, cousin, and for some of the gifts you gave me." She patted a small leather and silver flask by her side, next to the one she always had.
"Use it well, and 'may your heart return to the forest,'" he said, gazing at her. "The future is fluid and destiny is never solid and set in stone."
"My heart is always in the forest, and may the stars ever shine bright for you and your people, Garlath." She then urged her horse on toward the capitol city.
He gazed sadly at her. "As it may for you, my dear cousin Saraia. I send you my blessing, and my love for you."
~*~
Taichi was torn between pleasure in hearing about the elves and fury upon the information of orcs roaming.
"This confirms it," the young king said grimly, smashing his hand down on the table in front of him, making the scrolls, papers, and other objects jump. "There is a shadow creeping up upon us, I sensed it, now this proves my suspicions."
"What can we do about it?" Hikari asked softly.
"We must gather the Twelve to form the Sapphire Orb and summon the Celestial Dragon," Saraia said in a clear, determined voice.
"But the Sapphire Orb and the Twelve are legends!" Sora protested. "Even at Takenouchi they are known, but only as tales."
"They are not tales, they exist. Ten of the Twelve are right here in this room," Saraia answered quietly, gazing at them all. She left the emerald necklace in full view, the magnificent gems glittering around her neck.
"So Grandfather's prophecy is coming true," Taichi murmured, his fingertips pressed together. "Could you name them, Lady Saraia?"
"Please call me Saraia. Yes, everyone in this room except for myself and Dia. You are all the ones who are capable of creating the Orb." She took a deep breath and sipped a glass of nectar carefully. "But there is not much time. All of you, I have a bottle of the Water of Cronos and am willing to allow you a drink and a view of it."
"The Water of Cronos?" Koushiro whispered. "Incredible."
"However, I advise you that the Water is often unreliable and can drive one to the verge of insanity. It is your choice if you wish to drink it." She gazed around.
"I do not need to know my destiny," Hikari said quietly. "On the whole, it would be best if I did not drink it."
Iori nodded, "I have no inclination to learn my fate."
"Same here," Dia said. "The Goddess holds my destiny."
"I need a basin and several cups," Saraia said and they were swiftly brought. "Clear the table, the aftereffects of the water vary and it would be safer if nothing valuable is upon the table or nearby." Once it was cleared, she set the bowl down and poured the water into the basin. For a small flask, it held much water for she poured until the basin was nearly full. "Who will go first?"
"I will," Taichi said, stepping forward. She filled a cup with the water and handed it to him.
"Drink the water and look into the basin." He did so, grimacing slightly at the taste and feel of the water, and looked into the still water in the basin. For a few moments, he turned pale, then angry, then utterly resigned. He staggered away from the bowl, Sora helping to support him.
Next went Yamato. The blonde man looked at the water impassively, then turned away after a few minutes, a determined look in his eyes, though his face was somewhat pale.
Koushiro, looking utterly delighted to experience this, looked in the basin after drinking the water, not even making a face at the sensation the water brought. He broke the spell of the water rather quickly, nodding to himself as he walked away.
Daisuke gazed at the water, still grimacing because of the taste of the drink he had. He blinked and blushed red for a moment. A slight smile crossed his lips but he shrugged and let the next person see.
Takeru peered at the water with some trepidation then looked excited for a moment, then calm. He backed away from the basin, a respect -or was it fear?- for it shining in his eyes.
Sora looked into the water, impassive. She seemed drawn by it as she drew closer, until Saraia put a hand on her shoulder. The trance broken, the Amazon Queen blinked and walked aside.
Miyako went next, then quickly turned away like Koushiro, looking troubled. She shook her head, and mused to herself for some time.
Ken went last, turning pale as he gazed into the water before looking up and turning away. He buried his face in his hands and Miyako put her arm on his shoulder to comfort him.
Saraia nodded and picked up the bowl in one hand. In some mysterious way, she tilted it and in a shining stream of silver, the water poured into the flask it had come from, not one drop spilling. She set down the bowl and stopped the flask.
"So that is how powerful the Water of Cronos is?" Koushiro asked quietly.
"Yes, it shows parts of the past and possibilities of the future. But do not take it very seriously, it is not completely accurate." Saraia gazed at them all impassively, hanging the flask at her belt. "Many have lost their sanity by the water."
"I thank you for that gift," Taichi said, slightly shaken.
"Nay, King Taichi, it is from my cousin, the Elf lord Garlath. He is the keeper of the water."
"We must find the remaining two and go to the center of this continent," Sora said fiercely. "For that is where the temple in which the Orb may be formed in dwells."
"I sense a great darkness from there," Hikari said softly. "But a greater power beneath it."
"We must go, the fate of our world lies upon it," Ken said firmly, looking up.
"And we must all stick together," Miyako added. "For it is twelve, and twelve only, that can form the Orb."
"I will help you, with my weapons and my life," Saraia said, a light shining in her eyes.
"As will I," Dia said, his arms crossed. "We may not be part of the Twelve, but we both will protect you all in any way we can."
~*~
Mimi shook her head, frowning. She had always been sensitive to changes in magic of any kind, not just plants, and strange feelings were tugging at her currently, yelling at her.
"Mimi? What is the matter?" Jyou asked, looking at her.
"We must go to Yagami," she whispered.
"Why?" he frowned.
"The Twelve are gathering to form the Sapphire Orb. I feel drawn to there for some reason, Jyou."
Jyou let his magical senses roam and felt a tugging at his spirit towards the kingdom. "You're right, Mimi, so do I."
"We should leave as soon as possible, the other Ten are grouped." She slowly got up. "How long of a journey is it to Yagami?"
"Wait, we can shorten the trip greatly by creating a magical gate," he said. "I went to the capitol city a few times and I remember it enough to be able to create a gate from here to there."
"That is good," she said, facing him, the sparkle in her eyes again. "Could you tell me about the city?"
"It is very hot, but also very exotic, like something out of tales," he said, smiling. "I remember some parts. Tropical birds hanging in brass cages in windows, beautiful fountains, markets that sell all sorts of things. I could go on and on, Mimi."
She laughed softly and his heart jumped in joy in hearing the sound. It was like a silver bell mixed with the gentle cascade of water. "I can already imagine it in my mind."
"We will make preparations immediately," Jyou said, and lightly kissed her hand. "Your wish is but my command, princess." He nearly missed her blush as he bowed and strode out of the room.
~*~
"Very good!" Saraia approved, giving a rare compliment.
"Really?" Takeru asked, wiping off some sweat.
"Yes, for such a short period of time, you and the others have achieved much-" She then collapsed, clutching her head.
"Saraia!" Dia ran over and picked her up. She was pale and apparently unconscious.
"What the hell is up with her and those fainting spells?" Daisuke commented, looking over for a moment from staff fighting from Sora and getting a whack on the head for his pains.
"I have no idea, Koushiro should have a look at her," Dia said.
"Someone is getting attached," Daisuke teased and Sora whacked him over the head again.
"Pay attention. If you're going to chat, do it when you're not practicing with me, boy," the Amazon said sternly. "Otherwise, pay attention to your lessons." For good measure, she smacked his shoulder firmly with the wooden stave and he couldn't help but yelp slightly in pain and surprise.
Dia trudged out of the practice yards slowly, easily bearing the elf's weight in his strong arms. Once they were out, Saraia mumbled, "Alright, you can put me down now, I am fine."
He nearly dropped her in surprise. "Saraia, what is going on?"
"I've been growing very sensitive to the activities of the Twelve since my experience with the Water of Cronos."
"Do you know why?" he asked and she nodded.
"Ask Koushiro or Iori, they're doing research about it. I had to force them to eat and drink as well as get some exercise. They would just stay in there forever if they could."
He chuckled softly but said firmly, "I will, once you get some rest."
"I am perfectly fine, Dia," she protested but he wouldn't listen as he trudged up to the main building of the palace.
~*~
Koushiro ran a hand through his wild red hair, sighing. "I can't make heads or tails of this."
"An inspiration may come," Iori suggested quietly, flipping through volumes. Koushiro gazed at him fondly, already growing attached to the younger man in a matter of days.
"And the heavens may crash down on us, " the red haired mage couldn't help but comment dryly. "Doggerel I call this."
"It sounds fascinating to me," Iori said innocently, green eyes sparkling.
"You try listening to it," Koushiro answered in a wry tone and cleared his throat to recite his findings.
"For many nights the Dragon sleeps, without any hope of dawn, Peacefully waiting, ever seeking, a single move of life's pawn, Destiny is but a game, in which we all are but the pieces Placed in order and directed wherever the player pleases
"For many a year the Orb will be hid, gone from all but the very wise, Until all tales, true or false, are soon dismissed as lies. But the Orb exists and great power it keeps, Deep within it's dark blue deeps.
"Alas, despite its beauty, the Sapphire Orb holds much sorrow For it bears the guilt of many sins, of old and those of morrow Power it holds, of great magic, to those who use it well Yet dark evil have come to have it as many tales tell.
"Twelve are chosen to create the long forgotten Orb, With great power and great virtue have each member sworn. The Dragon chooses who they are, each one unique and good, And the stars control their destiny, as the Twelve were born.
"The first is one of fire, a warrior bound in blood and sword, He rules his kingdom with an iron hand, yet softened by wise word The one of fire loves his people, a kind man yet strong lord He will lead the Twelve, but not alone, for they all must fight together
"The next is one of female kind, also ruling queen, Who guides her female warriors with her gentle soul and wise mind She loves her people with her heart and thus she is one of love Yet beware her wrath, for she is fierce when any hurt her kind
"Coming next is one with ice, in both magic and in eye With hair of gold and tall stature, he is truly one to dread Yet despite his ice-cold nature, he is kind and true to friend But beware all foes, when he is round; watch the ground on which you tread
"By their side is one of water, great mage and ruler he is Though quiet and perhaps timid, strong reliability is within His voice is quiet but grave, his eyes of solemn justice He guards those he loves closely, all those of friend and kin
"One of lightning comes along, of scarlet tresses and jet orbs Also mage and with great wisdom this one lives on Older in spirit than body, he uses knowledge well, Also using it to help the world before his time is gone
"The one of plants is the next, gentle and pure soul is she, She loves her friends and her kingdom, never taking life, Though despite her gentle soul, she is indeed of bright spirit To save her friends she is quite ready to face hard and bloody strife
"Then comes one of steel, cheery and hot-tempered, Though at times with lack of logic and of empathy, He holds his friends close to him and forever remains true, Never in his heart lacking the gift of sympathy.
"The wise one of mind magic is next in line, emerald are his eyes, He holds onto friends close at heart and treats them very well, Though he is fierce in battle, he prefers knowledge than blade Where this path will take him, none but fate will tell.
"One of the air and wind joins their number, with tresses of heather hue She guides her queen, the one of love, with wise words and sound advice Though at first of great temper, she is also kind and loving She is truly worthy of her magic and bright winged hawk as her device
"Next comes one of shadows, quiet and of few words He is kind despite his magic, his friends, close and small in number, Shadow mage he may be but compassion rules his heart He never loves the darkness, his path never torn or left to plunder
"Last are two, the treasured pieces They are not two but more like two made one, As they must fight together One of light, one of hope, together, their power like the sun
"Only when the Twelve join should you hope of forming the Orb The Dragon awaits, Chosen Ones, do not stop and tarry Hidden dangers and darkness await you all, but keep together always or you will surely fall Once your task is finished there is a chance for time merry
"Keep strong as you go where the sun sets, the shadows over looming Beware of that is not what it seems, the wolves in sheep's clothing Stay to the path you are given, no matter what you see within a moment's assuming Never split apart, for twelve and twelve only can summon the Dragon and Orb.
"To guide them on their way, fate sends ones to protect and guide. One is of the forests, an elf woman of much wisdom, She will give her life gladly to see the duty done, although she is on the side And perhaps she will, for she will never see forests the same way once the journey is through.
"Next is one who is ruled by a Goddess, a being who stays to shadows He is a skilled warrior, hardened and coldly just. Though his hard exterior is aloof and cold, he is gentle and kind inside, A strong bond with his fellow warriors is to him always a must
"More will come, in subtler ways. To defeat the growing darkness, all races will join A single goal is all is needed to join all as one The darkness cannot defeat such an alliance as one of common coin
"So to whom who reads these words, heed them well and with reason Let not your heart be swayed by lies and be urged into treason."
Koushiro stopped reading and drank down a goblet of wine to smooth his throat. "So there you have it."
"Very good recitation," Dia commented from the doorway, coming in.
"Thank you," the mage bowed in his direction. "What brings you here?"
"Saraia had another one of those fainting attacks," he said quietly and Iori looked concerned.
"Is she alright?" he asked.
"Yes, I am getting worried for her though, why are these attacks happening?"
"Let me see," Koushiro ruffled through a pile of old notes. "Elves. the Water of Cronos. Here it is. The Water of Cronos apparently has strange effects on elves. They are able to withstand its effects far better than humans but the water leaves its mark on them. She is very sensitive to the movements of the Twelve most likely."
"That's what I feared," the shadow being said, pouring himself a glass of wine.
"She could be the elf in this poem." Iori started to say, but realized his words and turned slightly ashen.
"Let me see that." Dia picked it up and read over it. "Bloody hell! No, it can't be possible."
"The poem says that she is willing to die and it is probable that it will happen, not inevitable," Koushiro pointed out.
"But what is that line about her not seeing the forest the same way again after the journey?" Iori mused.
"It could mean a number of things. Some kind of riddle most likely," Koushiro said, sighing.
"Not while I remain here on this earth will I allow her to die," Dia said and whirled around, swiftly striding out of the room.
Iori gazed after him. "I never saw him this fierce to protect Saraia."
"It's not normal?" the other mage asked, raising an eyebrow and sipping some more wine.
"Not at all, in fact, he and Saraia had the most aloof and strictly professional relationship of our group before this happened. I wonder if she will understand."
"I think so, she's an intelligent being; after all she is an elf."
"Is it infatuation or real love?" Iori then turned to shuffling through his books again, leaving the question unanswered.
~*~
Dia sat on the rooftop that night, musing to himself, his unsheathed broadsword laid across his knees.
"Does something trouble you, my son?" He felt the melodious voice behind him rather than hearing it, deep within his soul. Slowly he turned around to face his Goddess, the one who had given him life and could easily take it away.
"My Mother," he murmured, getting up and bowing respectfully to her.
The Goddess was a tall woman of middle age, with unearthly beauty and a powerful, comforting aura. She was clad in red so dark it was nearly black, her black hair tied back in a braid. Her skin was a creamy ivory standing out on her raven locks. The deity carried a scimitar on her back, a slim, true blade. Her eyes marked her especially. They were bright purple, like fine amethysts, but changed colors, in hues from the earth, the sky, and the ocean.
"You feel the need to return to me again?" she asked gently, song ringing in her voice.
"No, my mother. You are the one who controls my life, having given it to me long before."
She laughed, creating no sound vocally but the expression of amusement singing in Dia's ears. "Yet I only ask you this. Higher powers than I have chosen you to help the Twelve. Would you help them?"
"With my life and my sword," he whispered.
"If but all warriors had your duty and compassion, my son. And I sense you have a fondness for the elf?"
He nodded, not flushing. "She brings light into my life, my mother. I love her, but I feel like she will not return my love in amorous ways, so I am content to love her as a sibling and a soul sister."
"In so many ways are the both of you alike yet different. I see a difficult future for her, but watch her carefully, Fate has a sharp turn for her in her life."
"I will, thank you, my mother." He lightly kissed her hand. His creator fondly ran a hand through his long raven and silver locks, patted his shoulder gently, and disappeared from his vision. He softly sang to himself as he sat on the rooftop, a ballad of history that was passed down from those who served Her.
"You sing very well, Dia," a quiet voice said behind him. He turned to see Saraia.
"Greetings, Saraia," he said mildly.
"As to you." She sat down beside him, blue green hair neatly braided. "Dia, this may sound personal, but do you love me? I mean as in more than a friend?"
"I do," he said without regret.
"I am sorry, Dia, but I am not ready for love yet, I do not feel like I have met the right one." She looked regretful and sorrowful.
He smiled without bitterness. "I love you like a sister, because in a way, you are my soul sister. We are so opposite yet we can be alike. I can deal with that, it's probably best for me anyways. You will find the true one for you some day."
"Oh." She was quiet as she looked at the stars. He put a light arm around her shoulders.
"Remember that I care for you, Saraia. You truly are a princess."
"If only more were like you, Dia," she said.
He laughed dryly. "If there were more like me, the world would be in trouble, that's for sure."
She lightly kissed him on the cheek. "But it is a good thing there is only one like you, dark brother."
"There is no one like you, light sister," he answered, affection in his eyes as he stroked her cheek, nothing remotely sexual about it. They watched the stars in silence, a comfortable, loving silence however.
~*~
"She is perfectly fine, uncle," Garlath said evenly, gazing at the older elf in front of him. "You of all people should know that."
"Why did you not keep her here, where she will be safe?" King Thienol demanded angrily. "I will not allow my daughter to go off."
"Father, she is a perfectly competent elf," his son, Garion, said quietly. "And only now you start being concerned for her? It is not as though you have been concerned about her or her actions over the last centuries." Remorse was in his voice as he gazed at his father.
"She is on a quest to protect mortals?" the king demanded. "With her life?"
"That is what the Water of Cronos reveals, uncle," the elf lord responded calmly. "It is her destiny."
"Is it possible she will die?" Garion asked, looking slightly sorrowful. Though he was older, his sister had taken the role of the mother and comforter in their family before she went off to see the world a few centuries ago, only stopping by home rarely for very brief periods of time.
"The Water is never truly reliable," Garlath said, gazing at his cousin with cool blue eyes.
"But what of my daughter, Garlath?" Thienol growled.
"She is in the best of hands and going upon the path of her destiny, uncle. You cannot divert her fate." Both elves looked each other in the eye, green meeting blue.
"Can I help my sister in any way?" Garion asked quietly.
"Unfortunately no, she is forging her own path." Garlath gazed off into the distance, musing to himself.
~*~
"Aim, careful now, the target is in your mind now, not just in your eyes. Stretch the string, slowly, and release!" Under Saraia's watchful eye, the arrow flew from the bow and hit the target. "Excellent work, Hikari. Tell me, have you had experience in archery?"
"Some," the young woman said honestly. "But not much. Only enough to defend myself."
"You have talent, princess," Saraia said kindly and frowned, freezing suddenly.
"What is happening?" Hikari asked worriedly.
"The last of the Twelve are here," Saraia whispered, eyes lighting up.
~*~
Mimi gazed about. It was just how Jyou had described to her, only even more entrancing. Jyou lightly jerked on her hand and offered her a smile. He was a slightly odd sight in his burnoose, the hood and a cape covering his simple mage robes bearing no sign of his true rank. On his insistence, Mimi was wearing a cloak as well, covering her simple dress of rose pink, and a veil of light tan cloth to cover the bottom half of her face.
"Excuse me, but could you follow me, sir, miss?" a soft voice said as a figure clad in nondescript brown clothing, a hood covering their face, came up.
Jyou looked apprehensive as Mimi bit her lip from below the veil. "Why?"
"Get away," a sharp voice said and the figure disappeared. "Do be careful, the city does have its share of thieves and muggers." A young woman walked toward them, unveiled but wearing a hood. Her green eyes, just like emeralds, gazed at them. "Your majesty, your highness."
"What?" Jyou demanded harshly. "How did you know?"
"For a mage, you leave many unguarded secrets in your mind," the woman said with a grave wink at them. "King Taichi has been expecting you. I am a mere escort and I will explain more at the palace. Do you trust me?"
"How can we?" Mimi asked softly and the woman smiled.
"Because he gave me his seal himself." She opened her hand, revealing a ruby ring set in gold. The seal and standard of Yagami was carved on the gem. "Do you trust me?"
"Yes," Jyou nodded. He felt somehow he could trust her immediately. Despite her young appearance (she couldn't have been older than twenty or so at the very least), she had an air of experience and wisdom.
"Follow me please." She led them through a maze of streets before coming to a small gate. "Forgive this but it is safer this way." Finally she led them to a comfortable and elegant pavilion in a private garden. Eleven others were dwelling in it and one called out to her cheerfully.
"So now you're back, Saraia?"
"You bet," she called back, smiling, and lightening her serious face. "I hope you didn't eat all the food, Daisuke, you glutton."
"I did not!" the boy said indignantly as the rest laughed. The woman had them go into the pavilion, making sure they had sat down before resting on a cushion herself.
"Thank you for the ring loan," she said, handing the ruby seal ring to Taichi with no regret.
"Not a problem, would you mind introducing us?" the monarch asked, eyes sparkling.
"Of course," the woman said, dropping her hood. Now Jyou and Mimi could see that she had long hair of blue green, more blue than green now in the light and her pointed ears stuck out prominently.
"An elf?" Jyou stammered, turning pale.
"Saraia, at your service," she said, bowing to him from her seat. "King Taichi, this is King Jyou of Kido and Princess Mimi of Tachikawa."
"I am pleased to make your acquaintances," the brunette smiled. "Saraia told us to expect you."
"How?" Jyou asked, gaining control.
Hikari, with a kind smile to Mimi, poured the girl a cup of cool juice. "Here, the heat can be often unbearable if you're not used to it."
"Thank you," Mimi said, unfastening her veil to drink.
Hikari gazed at her. "Are you alright?"
"Yes, why?" She set down the cup.
"Well- never mind that please, Princess." She smiled.
"You explain Koushiro, I explained to the rest of you," Saraia said, turning to the red haired man.
In simple terms and short words, for him anyway, the mage explained the story to Jyou and Mimi, the rest of them listening in partially, while adding in their own comments.
"So we must do this?" Jyou asked carefully.
"Do you want this world to be destroyed?" Daisuke said somewhat tartly. Saraia lightly cuffed him.
"I swear, a twelve year old has more manners than you," she sighed. "As well as a great deal more in the ways of common sense."
"Damn elf," he muttered and ducked as she shot him a frosty look.
"Do not take that tone with me, Motomiya Daisuke. I happen to be much older than you." She cuffed him again.
"I offer you both rooms in the palace," Taichi said graciously. "As for now, I think both of you should rest. The evening meal will be served at sunset, a private affair for tonight."
"I thank you." Both monarchs gripped each other's hands, both pairs of eyes meeting in a mutual understanding between them.
~*~
Evening came and from the gardens the sweet scent of evening jasmine rose, wonderfully soothing and surrounding the palace in a perfumed cloud.
The meal was set out in an open-air room, cushions everywhere for seats. Since it still was warm, cool, refreshing food was set out for them to dine on. When the meal started, Taichi was soon immersed in a conversation with Yamato and Daisuke, obviously absorbed in the topic. Iori, Jyou, and Koushiro were debating magical theory and the prophecy. Mimi was chatting with Sora politely, despite the vast differences between the two. Miyako and Ken were quietly discussing their homelands as well as Hikari and Takeru. Saraia talked with Dia, only toying with her food.
"Eat," he urged her. "You'll need your strength sooner or later."
"I do not feel hungry," the elf said quietly.
"What is wrong with you?" The shadow being frowned at her, his voice concerned.
"Nothing." Her tone, slightly forced, brooked no argument.
"It's the prophecy, isn't it?" he asked shrewdly.
"Sort of. It is just that I promised my older brother that I would always say good-bye to him, as well as the fact that I loved him, before I did anything too drastic. I feel like I am breaking a vow. I cannot leave to say farewell to him, I pledged myself to this quest and I will not turn back."
"Oh, you love your brother very much?"
"Like life itself. I took care of him and he took care of me back." She smiled slightly, reminiscing.
"I think that he would want you to eat though, or else our enemies would not need to ambush you. All they would have to do is wait until you wither away and get carried off by a wind."
Saraia playfully hit him. "Oh alright, please. You love to layer on guilt, do you not?"
~*~
"Binding tendrils!" Out of the ground, tough, thin green vines entwined around Yamato's legs.
"Ice wind!" He froze them then shattered his bonds.
"Alright, you expended your magical resources," Koushiro said. "It is best not to drain your magic very quickly."
"Oh..." Mimi swayed on her feet, apparently dizzy. Jyou ran over and caught her as she fell.
"How many lovebirds do we have anyways?" Daisuke mumbled nearby, toying with a steel blade he had summoned.
"Daisuke, mind your manners," Iori admonished.
The former mercenary rolled his eyes and threw his blade. It landed, quivering, into the wooden leg of a table nearby. "You know that I don't have any."
"How about some decency?" Dia drawled. "O, insubordinate one."
"Insubordination is my middle name," Daisuke smirked, summoning a bit of steel and shaping it with his bare hands into the form of a knife.
"As well as glutton, fool, blockhead, and all around hothead," Dia said dryly, sharpening his blade. "As well as star eyed admirer of every pretty thing that passes by with skirts and a bosom."
The others laughed as Daisuke blushed furiously. "Dia!"
"I'm only telling the truth," the man said innocently. Rolling his eyes, Daisuke hurled an orange at Dia, who caught it and casually started to peel it.
~*~
"Well, now our journey starts," Daisuke said, gazing back at the fading sight of the capital city. He sat easily on his blood bay, reins in one hand.
"Nice to know, oh master of the obvious," Dia grunted, urging his black mare forward. It was a frightfully intelligent horse, as well as death on four, very hard iron shod hooves with wicked teeth. But with Dia on her back the obvious warhorse acted like a calm and innocent palfrey. The mare only tolerated him or Saraia, anyone else, well... it would be safe to say that they never looked at warhorses the same way again.
"Be nice, Dia," Saraia scolded, urging her own white gelding forward, the only horse she would ride if she had a choice, a faithful animal that stuck by her constantly.
"You know that it is useless to talk to him when he is sardonic," Iori told her, riding on a placid bay.
"We know that too well," Taichi rolled his eyes as his chestnut stallion trotted. He had left his vizier in charge, a young, capable man named Takato, while he was away.
"It appears many of us have a strong dependency on irony," Koushiro said dryly, guiding a gray gelding.
"You can say that again," Ken muttered, perched easily on a blue roan mare.
"Well, if we're going to work together, irony will have to be forgotten, if they insult another of our group," Sora said briskly, shifting in her seat upon strawberry roan.
"Well, Daisuke puts himself up as a target. I suppose I should pity the poor boy, but he sets himself up, unknowingly I am not sure," Miyako retorted, her hands on the reins of a gray.
"Do you have to be so cynical?" Hikari asked, her spirited white mare dancing a little nervously.
"Cynicism is an easy path to turn to after some time in the right conditions," Yamato remarked wryly, his battlesteed Hellspawn calmly walking at an easy pace.
"Yes, and you are a wonderful example to look up to, brother," Takeru answered sarcastically, his own warhorse Firesoul going along.
"Where is this conversation going?" Mimi wanted to know, fussing over her skirts on her chestnut mare.
"I don't think I want to know," Jyou responded, patting the neck of his gray gelding.
On they went, jibing and chattering amicably, on their way to their goal.
Intermezzo
Jyou sat up in bed, sweating furiously from his nightmares. Taking deep breaths, he gazed around the room and sank back into the tangled pile of blankets and pillows. A small mage light formed, bobbing slightly as the round ball of magical fire illuminated the room dimly, banishing the looming shadows and darkness in the room, revealing only familiar mundane objects where horrifying nightmares had once lurked.
"Your majesty?" Marie was in the doorway, pale and like a ghost in her white nightgown.
"Please, you may come in, Marie and call me Jyou," he said gently and she stepped in carefully. "What is the matter?"
"Just a dream, but it was troubling." Jyou got out of his bed, slipping on his dressing gown over his nightshirt, walking over to the fireplace. He stoked the dying embers in the fire with a murmured word and a flash of blue fire, at which flames leapt up merrily in the fireplace, crackling softly and giving off steady heat and light. "Do tell please, I am listening." He motioned for her to sit by his large armchair in another comfortable chair and she did so carefully.
"I fear for my life here," she said quietly. "I am not who you think I am."
"Really?" Jyou mildly raised an eyebrow.
"I must leave this place."
"Why, and who are you?" He gently grasped her hand.
"The crown princess of Tachikawa." Her voice was a bare whisper.
"What?" He looked at her in surprise. "My betrothed?"
"The one and the same, I have to leave, there's no point in me staying here." She slowly got up, but he stopped her.
"Please, it is dangerous out there, there's a solution to this; we'll find it together, Mimi."
She looked at him with tear filled brown eyes and threw herself at him, embracing him. He comforted her, feeling something stir in his heart for her.
~*~
Saraia shook off the light trance that served elves as sleep and got out of bed. Pulling on a simple, comfortable tunic and leggings, she slipped out, bow and quiver in hand. Out in the archery targets, she fired round after round of arrows, face creased in concentration, but not for the target. Thoughts swarmed through her mind as she fired perfect shots despite the conglomeration of scattered thoughts and emotions in her mind. Schooling her mind like she had been taught many a year before; she organized them carefully, coaxing them into various parts of her memory, all while still shooting. It was like meditation for her; surprising as it seemed.
"Something troubles you, my cousin?" Garlath was outside and he was watching her, dressed simply like she was.
"Nothing, I have not been in the company of elves for many a year," she said softly, walking over and jerking out the arrows.
"Ah, I understand." He put a light hand on her shoulder.
"I have been dreaming, about the twelve chosen ones. I know who they are, and their path is frozen by destiny. As is mine. I will die to defend them."
"How are you so sure? The future is a fluid thing, changing easily."
"Not this one, my cousin, not this one. If they die, our world is in peril. They must unlock the dragon. And I will die so that they and many others may live. I will do that willingly." She gazed at him then turned away. "I am going to rest for now, I feel I will not be able to many times later."
"No, come with me. I think you should drink some of the Water of Cronos and gaze into it."
"That is dangerous, even for elves," she said, looking up sharply. "Many a strong and wise man had fallen into the depths of madness under the influence of the water. It is a double edged blade and unreliable in the long run."
"Nonetheless, it may be useful. Come along." She followed him, bringing her bow and quiver strapped to her back. He led her to a graceful fountain; water trickling into a basin perched on a pedestal carved to resemble curled vines. "Drink, then look into the water, but do not touch it."
He gave her a smooth silver cup and she held it to the falling water. Carefully, she drank it, the water unusually sweet and cool. But as it cascaded down her throat, it burned her stomach and left a bitter aftertaste dwelling in her mouth. She fell over the basin, using her still aware and fading reflexes to stop herself, holding onto the edges of the round bowl to stop from falling into the water. The cup clattered to the ground but the female elf was too drawn by the visions she saw inside of the bowl to notice.
She saw bits of her past, scattered memories that flashed past quickly. Then she saw a group of people, numbering fourteen; heading toward a tall pyramid shaped building in midst of a desert, sun blazing down without mercy. Then it changed to twelve in a circle, a pentagram in the center of the circle. Multicolored lights flashed from each of the people in turn, writhing together and forming a magnificent dragon of light that plunged into the center of the circle and the pentagram. A pedestal formed with an orb on it, a large, perfectly spherical orb that was colored the most beautiful shade of blue in the world, the color of the night sky just after sunset or the vast oceans on the night of a full moon.
Then it disappeared, going back. It showed the twelve being swallowed by darkness, one by one, crying out in pain. An immense serpent made of shadows crept over the land, jaws open and revealing teeth as long as lances and as sharp as swords. As it flew over, devouring light, Saraia saw horrible scenes. Forests being destroyed, beings of different races falling in battle with their blood staining the ground crimson and other hues, whole families and villages massacred. Their screams of pain and all sorts of horrible sounds reached her ears and she tried to draw away but she was too entranced. The serpent then devoured everything, the land, corpses, and those still living, as stifling darkness covered all.
This is what happens if you fail, a voice whispered in her mind and she saw more visions.
An attack of strange creatures surrounding a group of people and she herself was there, yelling something as she shot arrows, bringing down a creature every time. She then erected a domed shield of green and silver and the other thirteen ran, some hesitating. Dropping the shield when they were gone, she faced the creatures with a grim face and an aimed bow.
"For the sake of Light!" she screamed and plunged into battle.
Time seemed to slow in Saraia's eyes as she watched as she fought madly and when an arrow pierced her body, she fought on, ignoring the blood that spurted from the wound. Then a warrior in black came, swinging a broadsword and decimating the creatures as he guarded her back. He turned and the observer could see who it was. It was Dia. The army gone, she fell into his arms. Evidently it was too late for her and the real Saraia could hear the image's last words:
"Save this world for me in the name of light and shadows, my friend."
Then her eyes closed. Dia cradled the body for a few moments; tears trickling down his cheeks and the image disappeared, leaving Saraia looking at her own reflection in the water of the basin.
"I will die," she said quietly, and walked away.
If Saraia seemed ever so slightly melancholy when she was at breakfast, it was generally ignored. She walked out onto a balcony with a splendid view of the city.
"The water is not accurate, cousin." Garlath walked up behind her. "There is a chance you will not."
"I saw what would happen if we fail," she said flatly, then turned to face him. "All of my life, Garlath, I have been treated like a fragile object. Ever since Mother died, Father was focusing more on my brother and to his own life, retreating into the past when he was not training my brother. The reason I left was because I wanted to prove my worth, and not just as a princess. If I die, I would rather die fighting to defend my friends and this world, then live all alone and ignorant, in these halls without a purpose." Her eyes had a new light in them, knowledgeable and fierce.
"Very well, my cousin, I will help you and your friends on the way," the Elf lord said quietly, blue eyes serious and sad.
"I thank you," she said, clasping his hand and he bent over to press a light kiss on her forehead. "Do not forget your people, Saraia, and your family."
"Never will I," she whispered. "Never, in death or in life I will never do it, not while I have my own mind and breathe freely."
The singing of the elves grew sadder, bittersweet in its beauty upon her words. She gazed out, ready to embrace her fate with open arms.
"Do send delegations to perhaps discuss matters, Princess," Garlath said, solemnly saluting the riders, freshly provisioned, despite the short ride to the capitol city, and given gifts.
"I promise I will," Hikari said, smiling and adjusting the bracelets she had been given, silver and turquoise, created to look like carved blue lilies alternating with silver leaves.
"We can never thank you enough," Koushiro said gratefully, a waterproof satchel of scrolls and books on his saddle.
"It was partly for the sake of my cousin here," the elf lord chuckled softly, eyes twinkling as they gazed at Saraia, who gave him a slight smile.
"We must leave quickly. I fear Taichi will not be happy hearing about orcs in the forests," Dia said somewhat gruffly. Though the elves were always courteous, they were somewhat distant with him.
"Dia," Iori said slightly warningly and the shadow being gave the young man a look that clearly stated, "What are you criticizing me for? I am older than you, you know."
"Thank you, cousin, and for some of the gifts you gave me." She patted a small leather and silver flask by her side, next to the one she always had.
"Use it well, and 'may your heart return to the forest,'" he said, gazing at her. "The future is fluid and destiny is never solid and set in stone."
"My heart is always in the forest, and may the stars ever shine bright for you and your people, Garlath." She then urged her horse on toward the capitol city.
He gazed sadly at her. "As it may for you, my dear cousin Saraia. I send you my blessing, and my love for you."
~*~
Taichi was torn between pleasure in hearing about the elves and fury upon the information of orcs roaming.
"This confirms it," the young king said grimly, smashing his hand down on the table in front of him, making the scrolls, papers, and other objects jump. "There is a shadow creeping up upon us, I sensed it, now this proves my suspicions."
"What can we do about it?" Hikari asked softly.
"We must gather the Twelve to form the Sapphire Orb and summon the Celestial Dragon," Saraia said in a clear, determined voice.
"But the Sapphire Orb and the Twelve are legends!" Sora protested. "Even at Takenouchi they are known, but only as tales."
"They are not tales, they exist. Ten of the Twelve are right here in this room," Saraia answered quietly, gazing at them all. She left the emerald necklace in full view, the magnificent gems glittering around her neck.
"So Grandfather's prophecy is coming true," Taichi murmured, his fingertips pressed together. "Could you name them, Lady Saraia?"
"Please call me Saraia. Yes, everyone in this room except for myself and Dia. You are all the ones who are capable of creating the Orb." She took a deep breath and sipped a glass of nectar carefully. "But there is not much time. All of you, I have a bottle of the Water of Cronos and am willing to allow you a drink and a view of it."
"The Water of Cronos?" Koushiro whispered. "Incredible."
"However, I advise you that the Water is often unreliable and can drive one to the verge of insanity. It is your choice if you wish to drink it." She gazed around.
"I do not need to know my destiny," Hikari said quietly. "On the whole, it would be best if I did not drink it."
Iori nodded, "I have no inclination to learn my fate."
"Same here," Dia said. "The Goddess holds my destiny."
"I need a basin and several cups," Saraia said and they were swiftly brought. "Clear the table, the aftereffects of the water vary and it would be safer if nothing valuable is upon the table or nearby." Once it was cleared, she set the bowl down and poured the water into the basin. For a small flask, it held much water for she poured until the basin was nearly full. "Who will go first?"
"I will," Taichi said, stepping forward. She filled a cup with the water and handed it to him.
"Drink the water and look into the basin." He did so, grimacing slightly at the taste and feel of the water, and looked into the still water in the basin. For a few moments, he turned pale, then angry, then utterly resigned. He staggered away from the bowl, Sora helping to support him.
Next went Yamato. The blonde man looked at the water impassively, then turned away after a few minutes, a determined look in his eyes, though his face was somewhat pale.
Koushiro, looking utterly delighted to experience this, looked in the basin after drinking the water, not even making a face at the sensation the water brought. He broke the spell of the water rather quickly, nodding to himself as he walked away.
Daisuke gazed at the water, still grimacing because of the taste of the drink he had. He blinked and blushed red for a moment. A slight smile crossed his lips but he shrugged and let the next person see.
Takeru peered at the water with some trepidation then looked excited for a moment, then calm. He backed away from the basin, a respect -or was it fear?- for it shining in his eyes.
Sora looked into the water, impassive. She seemed drawn by it as she drew closer, until Saraia put a hand on her shoulder. The trance broken, the Amazon Queen blinked and walked aside.
Miyako went next, then quickly turned away like Koushiro, looking troubled. She shook her head, and mused to herself for some time.
Ken went last, turning pale as he gazed into the water before looking up and turning away. He buried his face in his hands and Miyako put her arm on his shoulder to comfort him.
Saraia nodded and picked up the bowl in one hand. In some mysterious way, she tilted it and in a shining stream of silver, the water poured into the flask it had come from, not one drop spilling. She set down the bowl and stopped the flask.
"So that is how powerful the Water of Cronos is?" Koushiro asked quietly.
"Yes, it shows parts of the past and possibilities of the future. But do not take it very seriously, it is not completely accurate." Saraia gazed at them all impassively, hanging the flask at her belt. "Many have lost their sanity by the water."
"I thank you for that gift," Taichi said, slightly shaken.
"Nay, King Taichi, it is from my cousin, the Elf lord Garlath. He is the keeper of the water."
"We must find the remaining two and go to the center of this continent," Sora said fiercely. "For that is where the temple in which the Orb may be formed in dwells."
"I sense a great darkness from there," Hikari said softly. "But a greater power beneath it."
"We must go, the fate of our world lies upon it," Ken said firmly, looking up.
"And we must all stick together," Miyako added. "For it is twelve, and twelve only, that can form the Orb."
"I will help you, with my weapons and my life," Saraia said, a light shining in her eyes.
"As will I," Dia said, his arms crossed. "We may not be part of the Twelve, but we both will protect you all in any way we can."
~*~
Mimi shook her head, frowning. She had always been sensitive to changes in magic of any kind, not just plants, and strange feelings were tugging at her currently, yelling at her.
"Mimi? What is the matter?" Jyou asked, looking at her.
"We must go to Yagami," she whispered.
"Why?" he frowned.
"The Twelve are gathering to form the Sapphire Orb. I feel drawn to there for some reason, Jyou."
Jyou let his magical senses roam and felt a tugging at his spirit towards the kingdom. "You're right, Mimi, so do I."
"We should leave as soon as possible, the other Ten are grouped." She slowly got up. "How long of a journey is it to Yagami?"
"Wait, we can shorten the trip greatly by creating a magical gate," he said. "I went to the capitol city a few times and I remember it enough to be able to create a gate from here to there."
"That is good," she said, facing him, the sparkle in her eyes again. "Could you tell me about the city?"
"It is very hot, but also very exotic, like something out of tales," he said, smiling. "I remember some parts. Tropical birds hanging in brass cages in windows, beautiful fountains, markets that sell all sorts of things. I could go on and on, Mimi."
She laughed softly and his heart jumped in joy in hearing the sound. It was like a silver bell mixed with the gentle cascade of water. "I can already imagine it in my mind."
"We will make preparations immediately," Jyou said, and lightly kissed her hand. "Your wish is but my command, princess." He nearly missed her blush as he bowed and strode out of the room.
~*~
"Very good!" Saraia approved, giving a rare compliment.
"Really?" Takeru asked, wiping off some sweat.
"Yes, for such a short period of time, you and the others have achieved much-" She then collapsed, clutching her head.
"Saraia!" Dia ran over and picked her up. She was pale and apparently unconscious.
"What the hell is up with her and those fainting spells?" Daisuke commented, looking over for a moment from staff fighting from Sora and getting a whack on the head for his pains.
"I have no idea, Koushiro should have a look at her," Dia said.
"Someone is getting attached," Daisuke teased and Sora whacked him over the head again.
"Pay attention. If you're going to chat, do it when you're not practicing with me, boy," the Amazon said sternly. "Otherwise, pay attention to your lessons." For good measure, she smacked his shoulder firmly with the wooden stave and he couldn't help but yelp slightly in pain and surprise.
Dia trudged out of the practice yards slowly, easily bearing the elf's weight in his strong arms. Once they were out, Saraia mumbled, "Alright, you can put me down now, I am fine."
He nearly dropped her in surprise. "Saraia, what is going on?"
"I've been growing very sensitive to the activities of the Twelve since my experience with the Water of Cronos."
"Do you know why?" he asked and she nodded.
"Ask Koushiro or Iori, they're doing research about it. I had to force them to eat and drink as well as get some exercise. They would just stay in there forever if they could."
He chuckled softly but said firmly, "I will, once you get some rest."
"I am perfectly fine, Dia," she protested but he wouldn't listen as he trudged up to the main building of the palace.
~*~
Koushiro ran a hand through his wild red hair, sighing. "I can't make heads or tails of this."
"An inspiration may come," Iori suggested quietly, flipping through volumes. Koushiro gazed at him fondly, already growing attached to the younger man in a matter of days.
"And the heavens may crash down on us, " the red haired mage couldn't help but comment dryly. "Doggerel I call this."
"It sounds fascinating to me," Iori said innocently, green eyes sparkling.
"You try listening to it," Koushiro answered in a wry tone and cleared his throat to recite his findings.
"For many nights the Dragon sleeps, without any hope of dawn, Peacefully waiting, ever seeking, a single move of life's pawn, Destiny is but a game, in which we all are but the pieces Placed in order and directed wherever the player pleases
"For many a year the Orb will be hid, gone from all but the very wise, Until all tales, true or false, are soon dismissed as lies. But the Orb exists and great power it keeps, Deep within it's dark blue deeps.
"Alas, despite its beauty, the Sapphire Orb holds much sorrow For it bears the guilt of many sins, of old and those of morrow Power it holds, of great magic, to those who use it well Yet dark evil have come to have it as many tales tell.
"Twelve are chosen to create the long forgotten Orb, With great power and great virtue have each member sworn. The Dragon chooses who they are, each one unique and good, And the stars control their destiny, as the Twelve were born.
"The first is one of fire, a warrior bound in blood and sword, He rules his kingdom with an iron hand, yet softened by wise word The one of fire loves his people, a kind man yet strong lord He will lead the Twelve, but not alone, for they all must fight together
"The next is one of female kind, also ruling queen, Who guides her female warriors with her gentle soul and wise mind She loves her people with her heart and thus she is one of love Yet beware her wrath, for she is fierce when any hurt her kind
"Coming next is one with ice, in both magic and in eye With hair of gold and tall stature, he is truly one to dread Yet despite his ice-cold nature, he is kind and true to friend But beware all foes, when he is round; watch the ground on which you tread
"By their side is one of water, great mage and ruler he is Though quiet and perhaps timid, strong reliability is within His voice is quiet but grave, his eyes of solemn justice He guards those he loves closely, all those of friend and kin
"One of lightning comes along, of scarlet tresses and jet orbs Also mage and with great wisdom this one lives on Older in spirit than body, he uses knowledge well, Also using it to help the world before his time is gone
"The one of plants is the next, gentle and pure soul is she, She loves her friends and her kingdom, never taking life, Though despite her gentle soul, she is indeed of bright spirit To save her friends she is quite ready to face hard and bloody strife
"Then comes one of steel, cheery and hot-tempered, Though at times with lack of logic and of empathy, He holds his friends close to him and forever remains true, Never in his heart lacking the gift of sympathy.
"The wise one of mind magic is next in line, emerald are his eyes, He holds onto friends close at heart and treats them very well, Though he is fierce in battle, he prefers knowledge than blade Where this path will take him, none but fate will tell.
"One of the air and wind joins their number, with tresses of heather hue She guides her queen, the one of love, with wise words and sound advice Though at first of great temper, she is also kind and loving She is truly worthy of her magic and bright winged hawk as her device
"Next comes one of shadows, quiet and of few words He is kind despite his magic, his friends, close and small in number, Shadow mage he may be but compassion rules his heart He never loves the darkness, his path never torn or left to plunder
"Last are two, the treasured pieces They are not two but more like two made one, As they must fight together One of light, one of hope, together, their power like the sun
"Only when the Twelve join should you hope of forming the Orb The Dragon awaits, Chosen Ones, do not stop and tarry Hidden dangers and darkness await you all, but keep together always or you will surely fall Once your task is finished there is a chance for time merry
"Keep strong as you go where the sun sets, the shadows over looming Beware of that is not what it seems, the wolves in sheep's clothing Stay to the path you are given, no matter what you see within a moment's assuming Never split apart, for twelve and twelve only can summon the Dragon and Orb.
"To guide them on their way, fate sends ones to protect and guide. One is of the forests, an elf woman of much wisdom, She will give her life gladly to see the duty done, although she is on the side And perhaps she will, for she will never see forests the same way once the journey is through.
"Next is one who is ruled by a Goddess, a being who stays to shadows He is a skilled warrior, hardened and coldly just. Though his hard exterior is aloof and cold, he is gentle and kind inside, A strong bond with his fellow warriors is to him always a must
"More will come, in subtler ways. To defeat the growing darkness, all races will join A single goal is all is needed to join all as one The darkness cannot defeat such an alliance as one of common coin
"So to whom who reads these words, heed them well and with reason Let not your heart be swayed by lies and be urged into treason."
Koushiro stopped reading and drank down a goblet of wine to smooth his throat. "So there you have it."
"Very good recitation," Dia commented from the doorway, coming in.
"Thank you," the mage bowed in his direction. "What brings you here?"
"Saraia had another one of those fainting attacks," he said quietly and Iori looked concerned.
"Is she alright?" he asked.
"Yes, I am getting worried for her though, why are these attacks happening?"
"Let me see," Koushiro ruffled through a pile of old notes. "Elves. the Water of Cronos. Here it is. The Water of Cronos apparently has strange effects on elves. They are able to withstand its effects far better than humans but the water leaves its mark on them. She is very sensitive to the movements of the Twelve most likely."
"That's what I feared," the shadow being said, pouring himself a glass of wine.
"She could be the elf in this poem." Iori started to say, but realized his words and turned slightly ashen.
"Let me see that." Dia picked it up and read over it. "Bloody hell! No, it can't be possible."
"The poem says that she is willing to die and it is probable that it will happen, not inevitable," Koushiro pointed out.
"But what is that line about her not seeing the forest the same way again after the journey?" Iori mused.
"It could mean a number of things. Some kind of riddle most likely," Koushiro said, sighing.
"Not while I remain here on this earth will I allow her to die," Dia said and whirled around, swiftly striding out of the room.
Iori gazed after him. "I never saw him this fierce to protect Saraia."
"It's not normal?" the other mage asked, raising an eyebrow and sipping some more wine.
"Not at all, in fact, he and Saraia had the most aloof and strictly professional relationship of our group before this happened. I wonder if she will understand."
"I think so, she's an intelligent being; after all she is an elf."
"Is it infatuation or real love?" Iori then turned to shuffling through his books again, leaving the question unanswered.
~*~
Dia sat on the rooftop that night, musing to himself, his unsheathed broadsword laid across his knees.
"Does something trouble you, my son?" He felt the melodious voice behind him rather than hearing it, deep within his soul. Slowly he turned around to face his Goddess, the one who had given him life and could easily take it away.
"My Mother," he murmured, getting up and bowing respectfully to her.
The Goddess was a tall woman of middle age, with unearthly beauty and a powerful, comforting aura. She was clad in red so dark it was nearly black, her black hair tied back in a braid. Her skin was a creamy ivory standing out on her raven locks. The deity carried a scimitar on her back, a slim, true blade. Her eyes marked her especially. They were bright purple, like fine amethysts, but changed colors, in hues from the earth, the sky, and the ocean.
"You feel the need to return to me again?" she asked gently, song ringing in her voice.
"No, my mother. You are the one who controls my life, having given it to me long before."
She laughed, creating no sound vocally but the expression of amusement singing in Dia's ears. "Yet I only ask you this. Higher powers than I have chosen you to help the Twelve. Would you help them?"
"With my life and my sword," he whispered.
"If but all warriors had your duty and compassion, my son. And I sense you have a fondness for the elf?"
He nodded, not flushing. "She brings light into my life, my mother. I love her, but I feel like she will not return my love in amorous ways, so I am content to love her as a sibling and a soul sister."
"In so many ways are the both of you alike yet different. I see a difficult future for her, but watch her carefully, Fate has a sharp turn for her in her life."
"I will, thank you, my mother." He lightly kissed her hand. His creator fondly ran a hand through his long raven and silver locks, patted his shoulder gently, and disappeared from his vision. He softly sang to himself as he sat on the rooftop, a ballad of history that was passed down from those who served Her.
"You sing very well, Dia," a quiet voice said behind him. He turned to see Saraia.
"Greetings, Saraia," he said mildly.
"As to you." She sat down beside him, blue green hair neatly braided. "Dia, this may sound personal, but do you love me? I mean as in more than a friend?"
"I do," he said without regret.
"I am sorry, Dia, but I am not ready for love yet, I do not feel like I have met the right one." She looked regretful and sorrowful.
He smiled without bitterness. "I love you like a sister, because in a way, you are my soul sister. We are so opposite yet we can be alike. I can deal with that, it's probably best for me anyways. You will find the true one for you some day."
"Oh." She was quiet as she looked at the stars. He put a light arm around her shoulders.
"Remember that I care for you, Saraia. You truly are a princess."
"If only more were like you, Dia," she said.
He laughed dryly. "If there were more like me, the world would be in trouble, that's for sure."
She lightly kissed him on the cheek. "But it is a good thing there is only one like you, dark brother."
"There is no one like you, light sister," he answered, affection in his eyes as he stroked her cheek, nothing remotely sexual about it. They watched the stars in silence, a comfortable, loving silence however.
~*~
"She is perfectly fine, uncle," Garlath said evenly, gazing at the older elf in front of him. "You of all people should know that."
"Why did you not keep her here, where she will be safe?" King Thienol demanded angrily. "I will not allow my daughter to go off."
"Father, she is a perfectly competent elf," his son, Garion, said quietly. "And only now you start being concerned for her? It is not as though you have been concerned about her or her actions over the last centuries." Remorse was in his voice as he gazed at his father.
"She is on a quest to protect mortals?" the king demanded. "With her life?"
"That is what the Water of Cronos reveals, uncle," the elf lord responded calmly. "It is her destiny."
"Is it possible she will die?" Garion asked, looking slightly sorrowful. Though he was older, his sister had taken the role of the mother and comforter in their family before she went off to see the world a few centuries ago, only stopping by home rarely for very brief periods of time.
"The Water is never truly reliable," Garlath said, gazing at his cousin with cool blue eyes.
"But what of my daughter, Garlath?" Thienol growled.
"She is in the best of hands and going upon the path of her destiny, uncle. You cannot divert her fate." Both elves looked each other in the eye, green meeting blue.
"Can I help my sister in any way?" Garion asked quietly.
"Unfortunately no, she is forging her own path." Garlath gazed off into the distance, musing to himself.
~*~
"Aim, careful now, the target is in your mind now, not just in your eyes. Stretch the string, slowly, and release!" Under Saraia's watchful eye, the arrow flew from the bow and hit the target. "Excellent work, Hikari. Tell me, have you had experience in archery?"
"Some," the young woman said honestly. "But not much. Only enough to defend myself."
"You have talent, princess," Saraia said kindly and frowned, freezing suddenly.
"What is happening?" Hikari asked worriedly.
"The last of the Twelve are here," Saraia whispered, eyes lighting up.
~*~
Mimi gazed about. It was just how Jyou had described to her, only even more entrancing. Jyou lightly jerked on her hand and offered her a smile. He was a slightly odd sight in his burnoose, the hood and a cape covering his simple mage robes bearing no sign of his true rank. On his insistence, Mimi was wearing a cloak as well, covering her simple dress of rose pink, and a veil of light tan cloth to cover the bottom half of her face.
"Excuse me, but could you follow me, sir, miss?" a soft voice said as a figure clad in nondescript brown clothing, a hood covering their face, came up.
Jyou looked apprehensive as Mimi bit her lip from below the veil. "Why?"
"Get away," a sharp voice said and the figure disappeared. "Do be careful, the city does have its share of thieves and muggers." A young woman walked toward them, unveiled but wearing a hood. Her green eyes, just like emeralds, gazed at them. "Your majesty, your highness."
"What?" Jyou demanded harshly. "How did you know?"
"For a mage, you leave many unguarded secrets in your mind," the woman said with a grave wink at them. "King Taichi has been expecting you. I am a mere escort and I will explain more at the palace. Do you trust me?"
"How can we?" Mimi asked softly and the woman smiled.
"Because he gave me his seal himself." She opened her hand, revealing a ruby ring set in gold. The seal and standard of Yagami was carved on the gem. "Do you trust me?"
"Yes," Jyou nodded. He felt somehow he could trust her immediately. Despite her young appearance (she couldn't have been older than twenty or so at the very least), she had an air of experience and wisdom.
"Follow me please." She led them through a maze of streets before coming to a small gate. "Forgive this but it is safer this way." Finally she led them to a comfortable and elegant pavilion in a private garden. Eleven others were dwelling in it and one called out to her cheerfully.
"So now you're back, Saraia?"
"You bet," she called back, smiling, and lightening her serious face. "I hope you didn't eat all the food, Daisuke, you glutton."
"I did not!" the boy said indignantly as the rest laughed. The woman had them go into the pavilion, making sure they had sat down before resting on a cushion herself.
"Thank you for the ring loan," she said, handing the ruby seal ring to Taichi with no regret.
"Not a problem, would you mind introducing us?" the monarch asked, eyes sparkling.
"Of course," the woman said, dropping her hood. Now Jyou and Mimi could see that she had long hair of blue green, more blue than green now in the light and her pointed ears stuck out prominently.
"An elf?" Jyou stammered, turning pale.
"Saraia, at your service," she said, bowing to him from her seat. "King Taichi, this is King Jyou of Kido and Princess Mimi of Tachikawa."
"I am pleased to make your acquaintances," the brunette smiled. "Saraia told us to expect you."
"How?" Jyou asked, gaining control.
Hikari, with a kind smile to Mimi, poured the girl a cup of cool juice. "Here, the heat can be often unbearable if you're not used to it."
"Thank you," Mimi said, unfastening her veil to drink.
Hikari gazed at her. "Are you alright?"
"Yes, why?" She set down the cup.
"Well- never mind that please, Princess." She smiled.
"You explain Koushiro, I explained to the rest of you," Saraia said, turning to the red haired man.
In simple terms and short words, for him anyway, the mage explained the story to Jyou and Mimi, the rest of them listening in partially, while adding in their own comments.
"So we must do this?" Jyou asked carefully.
"Do you want this world to be destroyed?" Daisuke said somewhat tartly. Saraia lightly cuffed him.
"I swear, a twelve year old has more manners than you," she sighed. "As well as a great deal more in the ways of common sense."
"Damn elf," he muttered and ducked as she shot him a frosty look.
"Do not take that tone with me, Motomiya Daisuke. I happen to be much older than you." She cuffed him again.
"I offer you both rooms in the palace," Taichi said graciously. "As for now, I think both of you should rest. The evening meal will be served at sunset, a private affair for tonight."
"I thank you." Both monarchs gripped each other's hands, both pairs of eyes meeting in a mutual understanding between them.
~*~
Evening came and from the gardens the sweet scent of evening jasmine rose, wonderfully soothing and surrounding the palace in a perfumed cloud.
The meal was set out in an open-air room, cushions everywhere for seats. Since it still was warm, cool, refreshing food was set out for them to dine on. When the meal started, Taichi was soon immersed in a conversation with Yamato and Daisuke, obviously absorbed in the topic. Iori, Jyou, and Koushiro were debating magical theory and the prophecy. Mimi was chatting with Sora politely, despite the vast differences between the two. Miyako and Ken were quietly discussing their homelands as well as Hikari and Takeru. Saraia talked with Dia, only toying with her food.
"Eat," he urged her. "You'll need your strength sooner or later."
"I do not feel hungry," the elf said quietly.
"What is wrong with you?" The shadow being frowned at her, his voice concerned.
"Nothing." Her tone, slightly forced, brooked no argument.
"It's the prophecy, isn't it?" he asked shrewdly.
"Sort of. It is just that I promised my older brother that I would always say good-bye to him, as well as the fact that I loved him, before I did anything too drastic. I feel like I am breaking a vow. I cannot leave to say farewell to him, I pledged myself to this quest and I will not turn back."
"Oh, you love your brother very much?"
"Like life itself. I took care of him and he took care of me back." She smiled slightly, reminiscing.
"I think that he would want you to eat though, or else our enemies would not need to ambush you. All they would have to do is wait until you wither away and get carried off by a wind."
Saraia playfully hit him. "Oh alright, please. You love to layer on guilt, do you not?"
~*~
"Binding tendrils!" Out of the ground, tough, thin green vines entwined around Yamato's legs.
"Ice wind!" He froze them then shattered his bonds.
"Alright, you expended your magical resources," Koushiro said. "It is best not to drain your magic very quickly."
"Oh..." Mimi swayed on her feet, apparently dizzy. Jyou ran over and caught her as she fell.
"How many lovebirds do we have anyways?" Daisuke mumbled nearby, toying with a steel blade he had summoned.
"Daisuke, mind your manners," Iori admonished.
The former mercenary rolled his eyes and threw his blade. It landed, quivering, into the wooden leg of a table nearby. "You know that I don't have any."
"How about some decency?" Dia drawled. "O, insubordinate one."
"Insubordination is my middle name," Daisuke smirked, summoning a bit of steel and shaping it with his bare hands into the form of a knife.
"As well as glutton, fool, blockhead, and all around hothead," Dia said dryly, sharpening his blade. "As well as star eyed admirer of every pretty thing that passes by with skirts and a bosom."
The others laughed as Daisuke blushed furiously. "Dia!"
"I'm only telling the truth," the man said innocently. Rolling his eyes, Daisuke hurled an orange at Dia, who caught it and casually started to peel it.
~*~
"Well, now our journey starts," Daisuke said, gazing back at the fading sight of the capital city. He sat easily on his blood bay, reins in one hand.
"Nice to know, oh master of the obvious," Dia grunted, urging his black mare forward. It was a frightfully intelligent horse, as well as death on four, very hard iron shod hooves with wicked teeth. But with Dia on her back the obvious warhorse acted like a calm and innocent palfrey. The mare only tolerated him or Saraia, anyone else, well... it would be safe to say that they never looked at warhorses the same way again.
"Be nice, Dia," Saraia scolded, urging her own white gelding forward, the only horse she would ride if she had a choice, a faithful animal that stuck by her constantly.
"You know that it is useless to talk to him when he is sardonic," Iori told her, riding on a placid bay.
"We know that too well," Taichi rolled his eyes as his chestnut stallion trotted. He had left his vizier in charge, a young, capable man named Takato, while he was away.
"It appears many of us have a strong dependency on irony," Koushiro said dryly, guiding a gray gelding.
"You can say that again," Ken muttered, perched easily on a blue roan mare.
"Well, if we're going to work together, irony will have to be forgotten, if they insult another of our group," Sora said briskly, shifting in her seat upon strawberry roan.
"Well, Daisuke puts himself up as a target. I suppose I should pity the poor boy, but he sets himself up, unknowingly I am not sure," Miyako retorted, her hands on the reins of a gray.
"Do you have to be so cynical?" Hikari asked, her spirited white mare dancing a little nervously.
"Cynicism is an easy path to turn to after some time in the right conditions," Yamato remarked wryly, his battlesteed Hellspawn calmly walking at an easy pace.
"Yes, and you are a wonderful example to look up to, brother," Takeru answered sarcastically, his own warhorse Firesoul going along.
"Where is this conversation going?" Mimi wanted to know, fussing over her skirts on her chestnut mare.
"I don't think I want to know," Jyou responded, patting the neck of his gray gelding.
On they went, jibing and chattering amicably, on their way to their goal.
