A/N: Guess what?? I DIDN'T KILL BERNARD!!!!!!!! Honestly... I can't kill a main character off when I still have more chapters!!! Really... the whole idea is to kill the Dark One... you really think I'd kill Bernard before everything was either resolved or the entire world plunged into darkness?? Honestly, I write logical angst!!!!!! *grins* ^_~ You're gonna hate me for the end of this one too, though... ^_^ BTW, seriously think about the song... now, he's singing to Kae... no, he doesn't actually sing to her, but you get it. By the way... I kiss your neck'... thats a hint for a scene I only hint to... ^_^ You'll get it when you read it!! SO GO READ IT!!

Fall
chapter 4

I close my eyes,
Thought I was lost, but I was stranded,
I go outside,
To my surprise the sky has landed.

I thought it made more sense,
If I could only keep you guessing,
I was a fool to think,
That I should stop you from undressing.

Now I'm believing all the words you say,
That I can't say back to you,
To you...

And so I fall,
I don't want to feel this small,
You know I just can't handle this,
Handle this at all.

And,
I'll just fall,
I let my heartbeat drop,
I falter as the music stops.

And you watch me as I stall,
And wonder when I fall...

I kiss your neck,
I feel you breathing on my shoulder,
Still I'm perfect,
It must be you cuz now it's over.

I was so close,
That was the most that I have ever been through,
Now old cassettes and cigarettes,
Will be the ones to save you.

How can you ask for me to stay,
When all you ever do is go?
Just go...

And so I fall,
I don't want to feel this small,
You know I just can't handle this,
Handle this at all.

And,
I'll so I fall,
I let my heartbeat drop,
I falter as the music stops.

And you watch me as I stall,
And wonder when I fall...

Go on,
You've kept me waiting,
Go on,
And watch me as I...

Fall,
I don't want to feel this small,
You know I just can't handle this,
Handle this at all.

And,
I'll just fall,
I let my hearbeat drop,
I falter as the music stops.

And you watch me as I stall,
And wonder when I...

~*~

Pain.

That was the first thing Bernard was aware of. Pain. He whimpered softly and opened his eyes to reveal small, chocolate brown, unfocused slits.

And then, it all came rushing back.

Dear God... Bernard cried, suddenly wide awake. He tried to sit up, but the pain in his shoulder was unbearable. He cried out in pain and fell back down, breathing through clenched teeth, eyes shut. Oh god, it hurt...

the voice... Bernard couldn't remember who's it was, but he knew it. Slowly, he looked around the room and for the first time, he realized he was in his own room in his own bed, and also that someone had pulled up a chair and was sitting next to him. He raised his eyes to see who it was.

Curtis.

Bernard managed. His shoulder felt like it was on fire... he could hardly focus on the small elf. Why're you her- Realization hit him like a freight train. He looked down, and sure enough, his shoulder was bandaged. Slowly, he raised his head back to the number two elf with question filling his pained eyes.

Yes. I saw you do it. I was there, Curtis's eyes were on the floor and tears flowed down his cheeks like little rivers. Suddenly, he raised his blood-shot eyes to Bernard with a hint of anger in them. Why, Bernard?! WHY?! His face faltered and he shrank back slightly, his voice becoming a whimper. Is it because of me?

No, of course not, Curtis, despite his pain and absolute horror, Bernard laughed as he said this. Then, a thought struck him.

It was because of Curtis. Curtis was the reason he had become a Dark Elf. When he lost Curtis, he lost what he had to live for. Yes, it was because of Curtis. He hung his head.

Then why? the number two elf choked back tears, his voice a sob. Why, Bernard?

I can't tell you, Bernard shook his head.

Curtis was suddenly on his feet. You're my best friend, Bernard! You can tell me anything! That's what friends are for, right?!?!

What's going on? the two leaned over to see who it was in the doorway. Bernard's eyes widened in horror. Shit, the whole fucking world might as well come see that he had tried to kill himself now.

It was Kae.

Curtis faltered, at a loss for words. Then, he shut his eyes and more tears ran down his face. He sat down and let out a loud sob before burying his face in his hands. Kae sighed and strode across the room.

Bernard, what did you d- the moment she saw him, she knew. Oh god... Her eyes flicked to his shoulder and then back up to Bernard. YOU DIDN'T!

I'm sorry, Kae...

WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU?! Kae shouted in horrible fury, yet at the same time, she was worried... oh, she was worried! BERNARD... ALL OF THEM...

I know, Kae, Bernard cut her off, his voice stern. Sighing, he told her. The reason I became what I am is because of Curtis. I wanted to protect him... he was what I held onto. When I thought I'd lost him... tears began to crawl down his pale face.

Oh Bernard, Kae sat on the edge of his bed and hugged him tenderly. All of us care about you! You're family to us! You are part of what we choose to hold onto!

I'm so sorry, Kae, Bernard whimpered softly.

What's going on? they both suddenly became aware of Curtis. The tears still trickled, the rivers still plain, but Curtis's face was full of shock and confusion. He cleared his throat, a bit afraid of the answer. By family... you mean you two... or are Jacey and Perrin included?

Yes, they are, Bernard replied without fear. Curtis's face fell in pained sorrow and he hung his head. Curtis, you are too, though. He raised his head again, wonder dancing in his eyes as if he didn't dare to believe it. Bernard smiled at him. Two different families... and in both of them, you are what I have to hold onto. You may not understand that now, his face softened with the best smile he could muster, for the pain in his shoulder was still making him want to scream, but when all this is over and I can finally tell you the truth, you will realize just how important you've been to me.

What do you mean...? Curtis was filled with wonder and amazement, even though he didn't understand. He meant something to Bernard... when he had thought he was nothing, Bernard was saying he was near everything.

Bernard dances upon the edge of death, both of them looked to Kae, who smiled affectionately at Curtis. You are what catches him when he begins to fall. Curtis's eyes filled with different tears now and he smiled, simply amazed and with nothing to say.

Just don't ever try that again... Curtis finally managed.

Don't worry, he won't, Kae grinned as she spoke. 'Cause I'm gonna be stayin' here to make sure he doesn't!

Bernard cried, and that resulted in him screaming and grabbing his shoulder.

Dumb ass... Kae pushed him back down on the pillow. Besides... I wasn't joking when I said I blew up my house. She grinned at him again.

Oh fine! Bernard groaned. He was in no mood to argue with an elf like kae, and she knew it, which was proven by her mischevious grin.

I guess... I better be going, Curtis got to his feet. Don't worry... I won't say anything to Judy.

You better not, cause I... well, with his help, she pointed to Bernard, I know where you live! Curtis smiled and nodded slightly before leaving the room. Bernard watched him go before turning to Kae.

It was all he could do to keep from gasping aloud. The setting sun's final light came through his window in countless colors, all of them framing Kae and making her glow... like an angel.

Bernard inwardly laughed. Kae' and angel' didn't belong in the same sentence unless there was a negative in there too!

And suddenly, she turned to him with glassy eyes.

and with that, she broke into silent sobs and let her head fall onto his unwounded shoulder. Honestly... why...?

I'm sorry, Kae, he repeated.

If I lost you... I don't have anything else to hold onto! Bernard's eyes widened at that statement. I didn't believe it... I tried to make it go away... but no matter how many times I pretended... she burried her face between his neck and shouder. I still love you. Bernard smiled and brought his face right next to her ear, breathing softly on her shoulder.

Why do you think I kissed you? Kae raised her eyes, her face looking as if she hardly dared to believe it, yet she was hoping with all she had.

she blinked back small beads from her eyes. Bernard nodded. Suddenly, Kae's eyes filled with different drops of emotion.

The tears dancing away from her eyes, glittering in the sun's light like tiny crystals, she bent down and pulled him into a fierce kiss, and Bernard kissed her back, each of them pouring every emotion they held into it.

Moments later, Bernard moved down her neck, making Kae laugh lightly. Slowly, she unbuttoned his shirt. And suddenly, they both stopped.

A small bead burned down Kae's cheek as she traced the Kurai with her finger. Amazing how that simple, shaped burn could change you forever. With a small sigh, Kae leaned back and pulled off the black tank top to show only the grey, V necked shirt underneath. With his good arm, Bernard traced the Kurai on Kae's chest before they locked gazes, one in question, one in answer. Kae nodded softly. And as she kissed him softly, the last of their doubt faded away with the sun's light, the truth becoming clear as day.

Bernard and Kae were desperately in love.

~*~

It was early September and Bernard walked through the North Pole, traveling a route he could follow blindfolded. Dread filled him, but he knew he had to do it. He and Kae had both talked it over after a recent Gathering. The Dark One's voice rang in his ears, stiffening his resolve.

It is only a matter of time before we have enough to finally destroy the Light Elves. We will murder them, torture them, twist them with pain and leave them begging for death. We will destroy them all.

It was too much to handle at the same time as the job of Head Elf. The Light Elves at the North Pole had always filled him with strength, but somehow, he knew what he had to do. Clenching his teeth, he knocked lightly on Scott Calvin's door.

came the reply. Taking a deep breath, Bernard pushed open the door and walked inside, knowing this simple conversation would change him forever.

~*~

Curtis, who was helping some of the elves with a toy truck, looked up when he heard the familiar, heavy footfall. He smiled when he saw Bernard, but it quickly faded. He was sure he saw tear stains down the Head Elf's cheeks, but he couldn't be sure. Bernard... crying? Never!

he asked timidly, making his friend jump. Then, his face formed a smile.

Curtis! I didn't see you there... Bernard tried to pretend nothing was wrong. It wasn't working.

What's wrong? And don't try to deny something is, because I know, Curtis grinned, making Bernard sigh in defeat before he knealt down to Curtis's level. All the elves stopped working to stare at the two, knowing something important was going on, especially when Bernard didn't tell them all to get back to work.

Curtis, I... Bernard's face faltered before he sighed again and lowered his gaze. Slowly, he reached up to his beret and to the horror of everyone around them, he undid the Head Elf pin. I can't be the Head Elf anymore, he said, his eyes on the ground, a small tear slipping down his cheek.

Bernard... but you... you worked so hard... all of us... why?! Curtis shouted in exasperation, but tears filled his own eyes from behind his glasses.

Curtis, please, Bernard held up his hand to stop the Second-In-Command before continuing, his eyes still on the ground. This is harder for me than you can imagine, but I have to. Please don't ask me why. Curtis closed his mouth, trying to think of what to say. Finally, his voice coming out in a sob, he managed to speak.

We're all going to miss you, he whispered, to which Bernard smiled and met his gaze.

And I'll miss you guys too, he tried his best to keep his smile. Curtis's face twisted as he let out a sob, his shoulders jerking pitifully, before he fell forward and embraced Bernard, who hugged him back tightly.

How can you leave? Curtis wondered silently, not wanting to let go. Soon, though, Bernard sat back.

he said, pulling off Curtis's hat. To the young elf's surprise, Bernard fastened the Head Elf pin to his hat before replacing it on his head. He smiled as he got to his feet. You're the Head Elf now. That's what you've always wanted, right? Curtis tried his best to smile back.

It won't be the same without you... Bernard sighed again. For a long time, he and Curtis just stared at each other, everyone around them too shocked to move. Finally, Bernard broke the horrible silence.

Take care of them for me, Curtis nodded and Bernard raised his head to the rest of the elves. I'll miss you all, but trust me, he grinned. Curtis will be a wonderful Head Elf! Now as my final order, I demand that you all have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! And with a final smile, he vanished in a show of silver.

From where they stood, Scott and Carol both wiped away tears and Scott put his arm around his wife's shoulder.

It's never going to be the same without him... Carol, despite her short time there, somehow knew that simple fact, which made Scott pull her even closer.

I know... I know...

~*~

Kae sang, opening Bernard's curtains so that the sunlight streamed through.

the elf hid under his pillow to shield his eyes.

Oh no you don't! Kae walked over and stripped the sheets off of him. COME ON! I made breakfast!

What is it? Bernard asked, his voice muffled.

You're favorite... Chocolate Chip Pancakes and Cocoa, Kae grinned as Bernard leapt out of bed and ran to the closet.

I'll be downstairs in a minute!

See you then! Kae replied with a laugh before leaving the room.

They had been living together for almost two months now, and Bernard had grown to enjoy her company very much. As long as she wasn't playing with his things... and by playing he meant when Kae tried to see what all would blow up in a microwave and what wouldn't... she was great to have around. He felt much less lonely.

Wow... this is really good! Bernard complimented her on the cocoa. Kae was in a cute apron that Judy had made her, pulling the pancakes off the stove.

Judy taught me a couple things... Kae smiled mischeviously. Basically, that meant she either chased Judy around with some dangerous object, threatened her, or tickle-tortured her till she spilled. Bernard had to laugh. The two had actually become pretty close friends... Judy and Curtis visited them often. At first, it had just been Curtis wanting to check on Bernard's shoulder and Judy tagging along, but it had become more lately.

Bernard shouted in pain as he jumped up from the table and slapped his palm to his chest, breathing heavily.

Kae raised an eyebrow at him. Despite the fact that his Kurai felt like it was on fire, which was never a good sign, he almost laughed. Kae, the punk-elf, in a cute little apron was just something he would never get used to. It was strange to see a face like Kae's in attire like that, especially with her classic eyebrow raise, which she had turned into an insult within itself.

A summon... Bernard groaned in reply, struggling to regain his breath.

This early? Kae cried. Oh well... I'll keep the pancakes warm for you!

and with that, he vanished. Kae watched him go, and suddenly, she realized her stomach was in a tight knot. A summon... she had grown used to his usual comings and goings, but somehow, this one didn't feel right...

Setting her cooking down, she took her apron off before walking through the living room and into the hallway. On the wall was a painting of Jesus. Kae folded her hands.

Dear Lord, I know you probably don't like me very much, but I'm still gonna ask you a favor... Please watch over Bernard for me, she opened her eyes and sighed heavily. She felt a little better, but she still chewed on her lip nervously as she sat down and prepared to attempt sowing... She had suffered forty-three finger bleeds from the in one week, and from it all, she had managed to knit a sock that would only fit a baby. Now, she was sowing another one.

~*~

Yes, m'lord? Bernard bowed down to the Dark One.

Rise, 712, on command, he resumed standing. I believe we have traitors on this side...

Terror set itself deep inside Bernard. He suddenly realized how lucky he had been not to lose anyone close to him...

238, 425, and 473 have been whitnessed passing information to Light Elves. All want all three dead by tonight! Bernard couldn't believe it. He knew those numbers... it was Ian, Christy, and Ron. He felt like screaming... or running... or something! Yet at the same time, he bowed his head.

Yes master, he stood for a moment, trying to make sure he didn't faint. That definately wouldn't look too good...

Well, GO! the Dark One pointed to the left of him. Bernard almost laughed. He felt like telling the Dark One that the North Pole, where all there worked, was in the complete opposite direction, but he figured it wise to keep his mouth shut.

As you wish, Master, and with that, he vanished.

~*~

Bernard walked as slowly as he could through the North Pole towards the Reports Room. What in the name of all the was holy was he going to do?!

Murder them... a part of him hissed. He tried to stop it... he tried to fight it... but somehow, the Dark Elf inside him began to take over, his eyes turning red, and his pace quickened. In no time, he was to the Reports Room.

~*~

Hello... WHOA! Christy leapt to her feet, knocking the table over. Ian and Ron also jumped up at the sight of the cloaked figure in the doorway.

WHAT DO YOU WANT?! WHO ARE YOU?! Ron spat. 712 raised his palms.

I will murder them.

NO! YOU CAN'T!

We will murder them.

NO! I WON'T!

Bernard tried to fight it. With horrified eyes, he saw the red sparks dancing in his palms. He looked up to Christy, Ron, and Ian's faces. And suddenly, different images spun through his head...

~*~

Christy rushed to his side as he staggered, pulling him down into a chair. WHAT HAPPENED?!

I... I had to kill... Bernard's eyes filled with horrible pain. I killed Ron's uncle. And with that, he broke down.

M-my... u-uncle? Ron stuttered.

I'm so sorry! Bernard burried his face in his hands.

I don't blame you, shocked, Bernard jerked his head up. Ron had tears streaming down his face, but he smiled at Bernard. If you hadn't, you would have been killed and then someone else would've. It couldn't be avoided...

Ron... he had forgiven Bernard. Bernard had killed someone who meant more than anything to Ron, for his uncle had taken him in when Ron's parents died. Yet Ron still forgave the Head Elf.

~*~

Bernard... what is it? Ian had asked when Bernard walked in, tears running down his face.

How many... how many more innocents do I have to slaughter? Bernard collapsed into a heap on the floor. In an instant, all three of them were at his side, yanking him to his feet and sitting him down.

Bernard, I'm sorry, Ian told him comfortingly. Tell us who... and then, you can forget about it! If it wasn't you, someone else would've. Nothing can stop the Dark One once he wants someone dead. It isn't you fault! Tell us... and then you can join us in some poker!

And that day, he realized just how blessed he was... well, at least for his situation. After every murder, Ian, Ron, and Christy were always there to cheer him up.

~*~

Bernard forced his hands down at the last moment and the red sparks slammed into the floor, making wooden planks fly in all directions. In an instant, he reached up and tore of his hood as the red left his eyes.

Christy near-sobbed.

I'm sorry... I couldn't help myself... Bernard couldn't explain why he hadn't been able to control 712. It was hard to believe...

You were sent to kill us...? Ian choked, to which Bernard nodded.

You need to get out of here... fast! he told them. Or the Dark One will send someone else!

What about you?! He'll kill you! He can track you because of the Kurai... what happens to you?! Ron's face was full of concern. Bernard smiled. He knew they shouldn't of, but they did. Here he was... he had almost just killed them, and they were worried about him. Tears began to run down his face. Somehow, the three Grey Elves seemed to understand. All of them smiled back at him.

A sudden, cold voice broke the air.

Good-bye, friends of the Light! Christy didn't even have time to scream before the red sparks consumed her.

Bernard watched her fall, her eyes closing in pain, all life fading away to leave an empty body behind. Christy... the laughing, smiling, wonderful Christy... was dead.

Bernard watched in fear as three Dark Elves stepped out of the shadows. He was frozen... there was nothing he could do... he couldn't move... He just stared at Christy's cold, expressionless face, her eyes dull, no longer shining.

Ian shouted, jumping for the girl, when the red consumed him as well.

STOP IT! Bernard tried to shout, but it came out a strangled sob. Ian... oh, wonderful Ian... now lay dead next to Christy.

You enjoy seeing death, don't you? a voice hissed inside his head.

Bernard tried, but it was useless.

You've become a bloodthirsty murderer. You almost killed them.



IAN! CHRISTY! Ron stared at them in panic and pain. Suddenly, his eyes filled with hatred as he gazed at the three Dark Elves. And he leapt forward just as they released the Red Sparks.

Ron ducked them, something few could do in time. Then, he launched himself at the Dark Elf that had killed Ian. He wrapped his hands around the Elf's neck, resulting in a sickening CRACK! Bernard had a feeling the elf was dead before Ron's own sparks finished the job.

Then, he turned to the next Dark Elf.

Bernard cried, still unable to move... he wasn't even sure he had shouted that word, or if he had just thought it. Tears streamed down his face... Ron...

Red sparks danced in Ron's palms. He smashed them against the Second Dark Elf, but not before it had managed to release its own. Bernard watched as the Elf crumpled to the ground, a lifeless heap, but then he suddenly became aware of the red that had engulfed Ron.

Time slowed to a crawl as Ron was held mid-air. His eyes never gained the look of fear that so many recieved when held by Death's Curse. No... Ron was strong. Slowly, he began to fall, leaving his soul behind. And as Ron hit the floor, he closed his eyes. Forever.

Bernard tried to run to them, but bindings of Dark Elf Magic went around his arms before he could move a foot. The last Dark Elf pulled him over and snarled at Bernard. The Head Elf was kicking and fighting, trying desperately to get to those three. This couldn't be happening... it just couldn't...

So the Dark One's suspiciouns were correct, the Dark Elf cackled. You are a friend of the light... Bernard felt the world crashing down around him. He wishes to take care of you himself...

~*~

Kae snapped awake, breathing heavily. She looked around the room frantically to find that she was in his living room. She had dozed off. Still, her dream... she had a feeling it wasn't just a dream...

Oh Bernard... please, be safe! soft tears trickled down her face. Please be alright...

~*~

Jacey stared at him with wild fear in her eyes as he opened his door.

I know... I know... Perrin nodded at her.

Oh god, Perrin, she suddenly fell into him, hugging him tightly. This can't happen... it just can't!

They all felt it... they were all part of a picture, yet one of them was starting to rip... how long until he was completely torn away?

~*~

the Dark One hissed, holding Bernard around the neck, their face's only inches apart. His nails dug deep into the Head Elf's neck, thin lines of blood running freely to stain his shirt. Bernard, however, simply clenched his fists. Who are you, you filthy little Light Elf?! And with that, he threw Bernard to the ground. Most would lay in a crumpled heap there, too afraid to move. But Bernard though about Kae... Jacey and Perrin... he thought about Curtis and Judy, and all the North Pole elves... everything that gave him strength.

I'm Bernard, the Dark One was surprised, to say the least, when the elf spoke. Slowly, he rose to his feet. I was the Head Elf at the North Pole.

An even worse traitor then I thought! the Dark One smashed his palm towards Bernard, the air thunderining forward where he had struck. The surge of power knocked Bernard backward, sending him crashing to the ground. Yet still, he struggled back to his feet, teeth gritted.

A Dark Elf cannot laugh. My laughs fill the room everyday, he spoke fearlessly.

YOU WORTHLESS LIGHT ELF! gravity seemed to intensify all around Bernard, once again smashing him to the ground. Pain filled him, yet still, Bernard pushed himself to his feet. All he had to do was think of his friends... his family... and new strength filled him. His legs shook underneath him, threatening to give out any second, but his eyes were set in determination.

A Dark Elf must hate Christmas. I'm willing to give my life up for it, anger boiled over the Dark One.

FEEL THE PAIN THAT YOU HAVE SUMMONED! from his hands shot sharp crystals. They smashed into Bernard, making his scream in pain as he collapsed onto the ground. Deep gashes were in both arms, his sides, his legs... The Dark One cackled. he turned his back and began to walk away, ready to let a recent joined Dark Elf finish the Light Elf on the floor.

the voice stopped him. Slowly, pain leaking from his eyes and blood soaking him, Bernard was getting up. A Dark Elf... cannot love... Bernard once again stood to his full height. I love many with all my heart.

YOU FOOLISH PIECE OF SHIT! horrible pain consumed Bernard. It wracked his body, crimson staining him. He couldn't help but scream... the pain was like hot fire, searing his skin... every inch of his skin felt like alchohol on an open wound magnified ten times. The stinging... it was unbearable. He didn't know how much longer he could hold out against it, blood still running. How long till he bled to death? How long till every limb in him snapped? How long till it was all over?

He was forced to wonder that as the torture proceeded, lasting long into the night. And for hours, Bernard's screams rang in the heads of his three most beloved.

~*~

Master, how did you do it? a young Dark Elf asked as the Dark One walked away.

Simple power... it won't be long until he drowns in his own blood.

That was what Bernard heard... barely heard. Tears ran down his face, the streaks they left becoming the one of the few places down his face clear of blood. He whole body racked with unimaginable pain. Everything spun, and he felt like he was burning up, yet cold sweat beaded everywhere. Everywhere, it was like tiny knives were stabbing him, piercing his skin, slowly killing him.

I doubt he even remembers who he is, the Dark One said with a laugh, yet secretely, he said it out of fury of who Bernard had told himself as.

I do... Bernard managed, though it opened the wounds around his lips and let the blood drip into his mouth. He didn't stop, though. My name... is Bernard... Using the last of his strength, he vanished in a puff of silver.

~*~

Bernard hadn't even thought of where he had taken himself. He was rather surprised to see that he was suddenly in front of a strange house. It took all he had, but he crawled to the door. His arm ached horribly, feeling like someone was shoving long knives through it over and over. Yet still, Bernard raised it till it could go no higher. And then, he let it drop.

~*~

What was that? Judy asked, looking up from her sowing when they heard a small thump on her door.

Not sure... I'll go see, Curtis, who had been visiting the she-elf, rose to his feet and opened it.

his voice was that of pure fear, high pitched and terrified. Immeidately, Judy sprang to his side, and she had to grab the door frame to keep from falling over. She tried to speak, but all that came out were strangled gasps.

In front of them lay Bernard, covered in blood. Through their snowy yard was a trail where had dragged himself, all of the soft white stained crimson.

Help me... his voice was choked, barely understandable, yet it triggered both elves. Judy immediately grabbed him and pulled him inside, and he winced in horrible pain at her touch. Everything... he was filled with horrible agony at every touch, whether it was Judy's hands or the feeling of the couch he was set on.

What happened?! Curtis cried, near hysterics.

I don't know... I think he was tortured... Judy sounded close to tears as well. Oh god, Bernard... She traced a finger down his cheek, making him flinch away in pain, letting his head fall softly onto the pillow.

I... Kae... I have to... Bernard was vaguely aware of what was going on. Yet at the same time, he knew he couldn't stay with Curtis and Judy.

Judy put a finger to his bloody lips, and he ceased talking. Then, she turned to Curtis, determination filling her eyes as tears ran from them. Curtis, he needs professional help, but for now I need you to get me a damp washcloth and the first aid kit!

Curtis dashed into the kitchen before he had even finished his word. Worry... that was almost all he felt. And fear. Bernard... who would have done such a thing?! And why?!

Judy watched Curtis go before turning back to Bernard.

Oh please Bernard, hold on, she begged, pushing a stray lock from his brown eyes. She looked him over, fighting hard not to sob. A large bloodstain, growing by the minute, had formed on the left side of his chest. Judy decided she would tend to that one first and slowly began to undo the buttons of his shirt.

No... don't... Bernard tried to stop her, but with this extra fear piled onto everything else, he finally gave out, slipping into unconciousness. Judy, still undoing the buttons, momentarily smiled at him in hopes he would no longer feel the pain before returning her eyes to her work.

And she screamed a horrible, blood-curdling scream.

Tears blurred her vision as she stumbled backwards blindly, staring terrified at the Head Elf. She screamed without realizing before turning to run and smashing into him. To afraid to speak, she burried her tear stained face into his shirt, sobbing hysterically.

Judy! WHAT IS IT?! Curtis took hold of her shoulders and pushed her back to arms length. Slowly, she rose her gaze to meet his, eyes filled with terror and pain, tears faling unnoticed down her pale cheeks.

His chest... his chest, Curtis... Curtis pulled Judy back into his shirt before looking over her shoulder at Bernard. It was then his eyes fell upon his greatest fear, the sign of one who would kill Curtis and Judy without a second thought, gleamed at him from where it was burned into Bernard's skin. His worst nightmare, staring back at him from what he had thought was his best friend. His lips formed a single, choked whisper as his eyes filled with tears and unbearable pain.

The Kurai...

~*~

I close my eyes,
Thought I was lost, but I was stranded,
I go outside,
To my surprise the sky has landed.

I thought it made more sense,
If I could only keep you guessing,
I was a fool to think,
That I should stop you from undressing.

Now I'm believing all the words you say,
That I can't say back to you,
To you...

And so I fall,
I don't want to feel this small,
You know I just can't handle this,
Handle this at all.

And,
I'll just fall,
I let my heartbeat drop,
I falter as the music stops.

And you watch me as I stall,
And wonder when I fall...

I kiss your neck,
I feel you breathing on my shoulder,
Still I'm perfect,
It must be you cuz now it's over.

I was so close,
That was the most that I have ever been through,
Now old cassettes and cigarettes,
Will be the ones to save you.

How can you ask for me to stay,
When all you ever do is go?
Just go...

And so I fall,
I don't want to feel this small,
You know I just can't handle this,
Handle this at all.

And,
I'll so I fall,
I let my heartbeat drop,
I falter as the music stops.

And you watch me as I stall,
And wonder when I fall...

Go on,
You've kept me waiting,
Go on,
And watch me as I...

Fall,
I don't want to feel this small,
You know I just can't handle this,
Handle this at all.

And,
I'll just fall,
I let my hearbeat drop,
I falter as the music stops.

And you watch me as I stall,
And wonder when I...

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A/N: Didn't turn out as angsty as I had thought it would... oh well! ^_^ Just a heads up... there are only a few more chapters, two at least, but there will be a sequal!!!!! ^_^ REVIEW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

REVIEW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!REVIEW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!REVIEW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!REVIEW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!