A/N: Omigosh, you guys... *tears up* I can't believe you all got me that many reviews... *hugs you all* You have absolutely NO idea how much that means to me, and I'm sorry I didn't have this chapter up right away! I can't thank you all enough!!!!!!!!! Many thanks to WiccanWitch and Gem the Warrior Elf, who both came back! *hugs them* I luv u guys!!!!! This chapter is dedicated to:
Wiccan Witch, Gem the Warrior Elf, Kitty the Drunken Butterfly, Tabbi, VickieTori, Simoriah: Girl of Summer, and CarrCarr!!!!!!
Thank you guy so much!
I LOVE HOW THIS SONG GOES WITH THE CHAPTER!!!!!!! The Dark Elves are there (no shit) and it's then that reality hits Bernard... like, it finally sinks in, and he realizes that the threat is real, and because of his Dark Elvish-ness... well, you all remember how their eyes become red when they're around Dark Elves... The Threat is real when his sight goes red again Make sense? And then, of course, Kae and Jacey are wondering what made the Dark Elves active in Berand and Perrin again: When asked what made it show And since Amber and Hunter don't know: The truth he can't send to most. I LOVE HOW THIS SONG GOES WITH IT!!!!!!!!! ^_^
The Red
chapter 6
Chevelle - The Red
They say freak,
When you're singled out,
The red...
Well, it filters through...
So lay down,
The threat is real,
When his sight,
Goes red again...
Seeing red again...
Seeing red again...
This change,
He won't contain,
Slip away,
To clear your mind.
When asked,
What made it show,
The truth,
He can't send to most.
So lay down,
The threat is real,
When his sight,
Goes red again.
So lay down,
The threat is real,
When his sight,
Goes red again.
So lay down,
The threat is real,
When his sight,
Goes red again...
Seeing red again...
Seeing red again...
Seeing red again...
Seeing red again...
Seeing red again...
Seeing red again...
Seeing red again...
See red...
They say freak,
When you're singled out,
The red...
It filters through...
~*~
This is it, you guys... Amber turned to her friends, but stopped when Aegis shook her head.
No, my dear, I fear this is only the beginning. The final battle is yet to come, she raised her head to the skies, and a strange sort of wisdom passed through her eyes. I am sorry I cannot fight with you... my powers have faded and though I can still use it, the power has passed to Amber. I can no longer fight the enemy, and if I try, it would kill Amber. She hung her head, but Amber set a comforting hand on the elderly elf's arm and smiled reassuringly.
They all crouched together behind a building, waiting for the Dark Elves. All of them had their Warder attire on, each knowing the people around them could be the last they ever saw.
I wish Kira were here... Hunter said aloud, and everyone silenently agreed. I don't want to die... not without seeing her... He shook the thoughts from his head and stood tall next to his father. And for a moment, he imagined she was next to him... slipping her hand into his for comfort, the way she had done only years before. He wished he hadn't been so stubborn... wished he hadn't chased the smile from her face... wished he had given her a chance...
Warders, it is time, Aegis told them. All of them linked hands and smiled at each other, none of them knowing what to expect.
And then, they stepped out into the streets to face the oncoming Dark Elves.
~*~
Kira panted hard, her feet carrying her swiftly through the snow as tears ran down her face. She tried to fight her way, stumbling and falling, frantic and panicing. It can't be true... Stength flitted away from her body and she collapsed into the snow, crying. I've already lost her... I can't lose them too...
Curtis had seen it, though. He had seen them dying... but it couldn't be true! The dream he had told her about... it wasn't possible! She ran his words over in his mind, the words he had spoken right when Kira reached the North Pole.
~*~
Kira! I need to talk to you!
What is it?
Where are Bernard, Amber, Perrin, and Hunter?
Kira, I had a dream! Dreams before... they've all come true! I saw... I saw your mother... and then... well... but now, I saw them...
Saw them what, Curtis?
I saw the Dark Elves kill them...
~*~
I won't lose them! I won't let my family die! her eyes narrowed in determination and she got to her feet, shaking, and hurried through the snow towards the elven town.
She just had to get there in time!
~*~
It was strange to Bernard... he was around the Dark Elves again, and he could feel the red returning to his eyes... he felt the Dark Elf inside of him... the darkness tried to take him, but he fought it, and when he shouted, it wasn't just at the Dark Elves, but at 712 as well.
I won't let you touch any of them! through his darkness, he harnessed the light between his palms. He clamped both hands and in them appeared glowing, twin daggers with long, curved blades, and he handled them with dangerous amounts of skill. He then rushed forward to meet three Dark Elves.
TAKE THIS! Amber wielded a giant sphere of lightning, wound it up behind her head, and then released it. It slammed into three Dark Elves, sending them flying backwards. They soon stood back up and charged at her, red sparks dancing in their palms, and she aimed at them again, refusing to give up.
Lets see you block this one! Perrin thought, sending out a bombardment of ice spears. The Dark Elves all scattered except one, and to his sastisfaction, the slivers burried themselves in its skin, and moments later, it slumped to the floor in a lifeless heap. ONE DOWN! he shouted before conjuring another ice storm. He had his heart in this, for he, too, could feel the red returning to his eyes. He wasn't going to let 971 take over him this time.
You took Kira from me, didn't you? Hunter growled, sending a water spout at a Dark Elf. It flew backwards but stayed on its feet, and Hunter only pressed on. You took the one I loved... you took my best friend... you did this... He poured his rage into his attack, and as a howling war cry escaped his lips, the water surged forward, slamming the Dark Elf against a wall.
MOVE OVER HUNTER! Hunter heard Amber just behind him and suddenly, she was at his side and released her lightning into his water. It shot through the liquid and hit the Dark Elf, causing it to jolt violently and then slump to the ground when they released it. Hunter turned to thank her, but the elf's smile cut him off. I got your back! He smiled back at her, but it faded moments later into a look of terror. Amber tensed and closed her eyes before slowly turning around...
She couldn't even scream she was so shocked. There, in front of her, stood a Dark Elf, the red sparks in its hands only inches from her face. And in moments, they would claim her life...
AMBER! HUNTER! Bernard crashed into them both, knocking them out of the way as the red just barely skimmed over them. They jumped to their feet and Bernard slashed at it with one of his daggers, but it only jumped backwards. Dark Elves began closing around the front of them and they all backed up until they hit something... Perrin, who shot them a look of fear.
They all stood with their backs to each other as the circle of Dark Elves became smaller around them.
What do we do? Amber hissed behind her, and she felt three pairs of shoulders shrug. Five Dark Elves were left, pressing in, and none of them could move. They tried firing attacks, but the small amount of black-cloaked figures made it easy for them to jump out of the way.
And though they fired desperate attack after desperate attack, the Dark Elves continued to close in around them, red sparks ready to cast death's curse.
From behind a building, Aegis watched them, her fingers crossed and held in front of her, biting her lower lips and eyes closed as she prayed.
Come on Warders...
she turned around, and to her surprise, she saw Kira limping towards her. The blonde's shoulders were sagging in weariness and she was breathing hard, but turned to face Aegis with wild eyes.
Where are they? she cried, her voice hoarse.
Kira, you can't fight! Aegis sounded frantic as Kira collapsed. She pulled the young girl onto her lap, and as the elf opened her eyes, her eyes fell upon the sight she had been dreading... the sight she was trying to prevent...
She saw the Warders surrounded by Dark Elves, and knew she was too late. They were going to die... her family was going to leave her forever... she would be alone...
she screamed, trying to break free, but Aegis held on.
You can't, Kira... you're too weak... Kira didn't give up. She continued struggling, trying to break free even if there was nothing she could do...
~*~
one of the Dark Elves hissed. You appose the Dark... keep that descision in your head and regret it as you embrace your own death!
They all let the red sparks in their hands intensify, and Bernard felt his mouth become dry. He was going to die... he drew Amber close and fell to his knees, hugging his daughter, and she cried into his shoulder. They were going to die... This was really the end...
I'm so sorry Hunter... Perrin drew his son close, and they stood together, waiting for death's curse.
I don't want to die... Hunter sobbed into his father's shirt, and Perrin felt tears slipping down his cheeks. His son was so young... so innocent... why did he have to die too? I want to live...
Good-bye, friends of the Light, they all raised their arms above their heads, ready to release it, while the Warders stood together, bracing for death...
But it never came. Instead, a blinding light filled the area, making the Dark Elves shriek and cringe. As the light began to die down, they saw a figure, the light becoming only an aura around them... and then they realized who it was.
Kira was floating a clear ten feet off the ground, the ends of her skirts whipping around her ankles, fists clenched, teeth gritted and eyes narrowed as tears ran down her face.
I won't let you touch them! she shouted as the Dark Elves tried to shield their eyes. There is nothing else that means anything to me anymore except them! And I won't let you take that away from me! I WON'T LET YOU! And as she clamped her eyes shut, the white aura around her raged against the Dark Elves. They all cringed in pain and shrieked loudly as white blinded the area...
It all faded away, and Aegis rose to her feet, struck with awe. On the ground lay the lifeless forms of the Dark Elves, and around them, the unconcious forms of the Warders...
They have won the first battle... Aegis collapsed into the snow, thanking the Lord that her Warders were safe.
~*~
She saved you all, you know, Aegis smiled at the four in front of her, nodding her head towards the room where Kira slept. However, she used an amazing amount of energy, and it has drained her. She will sleep for days at least, and two weeks at most. You owe her your life, and the least you all can do is thank her when she awakens. With a smile and a nod, their teacher dissapeared and the Warders turned to each other.
She really saved us... Amber broke the silence, and they all nodded, each of them surprised.
She's always been a strong girl... and if I ever see her father... Bernard gritted his teeth and Perrin laughed. Let's just say he's gonna be seein' red... Perrin tried to surpress his laughter, but as usual, he failed horribly and Bernard grinned at him. Amber and Hunter exchanged glances... their parents were doing it again, and this time, they weren't even hiding it.
712 and 971 are going to have fun, doncha think? Perrin replied, and they both laughed. Amber and Hunter lowered their gazes, and neither of them had to exchange any words to know what the other was feeling.
Hey, what's wrong you two? Perrin asked them, the elder elves ceasing their laughter. Both the younger elves raised their heads again...
And let out identical gasps.
What is it? Bernard asked, and both of them threw a glance over their shoulder to make sure no one was there.
Your eyes... Amber's words made them turn back around, and she was shaking slightly. They... they're bright red... Bernard and Perrin exchanged glances, and realized that their children were right.
Now, Amber... Bernard started, but his Hunter's shout made him stop.
WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON?! he demanded, glaring at them.
Daddy, what are you hiding? Bernard wanted to tell her at that moment. He wanted to pour his heart out and tell him everything he'd done. He wanted to tell her the truth... but he knew he couldn't, and it angered him.
Nothing, Amber... he started, but she didn't let him finish.
I'm not stupid and I'm not blind! You and mom are always talking about the same thing whenever you think I'm not around! Now I'll ask you one more time... WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU HIDING?! the Head Elf flinched inwardly at his daughter's words. She knew... but he couldn't tell her. He just couldn't... his blood began to boil and he clenched his teeth in anger.
THERE'S NOTHING TO HIDE! he shouted at Amber, spreading his arms and leaning down to meet her frightned gaze with his cold one. Then, Amber's eyes narrowed and she set her jaw in defiance, and before Bernard knew what he was doing, he grabbed her by the shoulders and started shaking her back and forth. What do you think I'm hiding, huh? If you needed to know something, do you think I'd keep it from you? I'm your father, damnit! He pushed himself away from her, shook his head at Amber in anger, and spun around on his heel. Perrin shot them both an angry glance before hurrying after Bernard. Amber stared after them, shaking in fear, tears brimming in her eyes. Hunter flipped the birdie at their backs in disgust.
And as soon as they were out of sight, Amber fell to her knees and burst out sobbing. Hunter immediately knealt down beside her and put a comforting hand on her shoulder.
he asked timidly, for this wasn't like the elf. Amber, what is it?
He frightens me... Amber spoke softly, still crying and shoulders shaking.
Your dad shouldn't of done that... I don't know why he did, Hunter knew his words were probably little comfort, but he could think of nothing else to say.
My father didn't yell at me, he froze at her words and stared quizzically into her face. That was not my father. That was 712, or whatever the hell that thing is. I could see it in his eyes... it wasn't him... his eyes were bright red...
Amber pictured herself standing in front of the Dark Elf with Hunter, and remembered the feeling that washed over her. She remembered the emotion that could not be put into words that she felt...
Did you feel it? she asked Hunter, looking up to meet his gaze.
Feel what? he asked, raising an eyebrow.
When we stood in front of the Dark Elf. Did you feel it? his eyes widened in surprise before he hung his head and nodded. Amber returned her gaze to the ground. That's what I felt when he shook me. That's what it felt like when I looked in his eyes. She snickered lightly, though more tears trickled down her face as an iea came to her head. How ironic that it was he who saved me from the Dark Elf. Hunter sighed and put an arm on Amber's shoulder.
Let's go home.
~*~
Mom? Can I talk to you about something? Kae looked up from her punching bag. Amber was standing in the doorway, her gaze on the floor and Mika sitting protectively at her side.
Can... it... wait? she panted before turning back to the bag and winding up.
She was surprised by her daughter's answer, to say the least, but a familiar smile crossed Kae's lips. Her daughter reminded her so much of herself...
Alright. Go one downstairs... why don't you make us both some tea while I get cleaned up? Amber nodded and left abruptly, Mika scampering after her.
About five minutes later, Kae flopped down on the couch and smiled at Amber. The young elf, however, kept her gaze on the floor, a sorrowful expression on her face and in her eyes.
Honey? What's wrong? Kae scooted closer to Amber and put her hand around the girl. For a long time, Amber said nothing. Tears brimmed in her eyes and she fell against Kae, sobbing. Amber, tell me... what is it? Kae pleaded, hugging her daughter and rocking her back and forth.
It's... Dad... Kae froze before putting her hands on Amber's shoulders and holding her at arm's length.
What did he do? she asked, ready to wring his neck.
I don't know... its just... she let out a sigh and wiped her eyes on her sleeve. Taking a deep breath, she began: We were talking about Kira, and he and Perrin started saying stuff about how if her father ever came around here, 712 and 971 would have fun or something... I know you guys are hiding something, and Hunter demanded to know what it was, so I asked Dad too. He started getting mad, but when then he... he grabbed my shoulders and shook me back and forth and swore at me... and his eyes... his eyes... they... she started crying again, and Kae waited patiently, for she already knew what Amber was going to say. They were red...
Well don't you worry. Your father and I are going to have a little... talk tonight, she grinned at Amber, who laughed lightly and shook her head.
Just make sure not to break too many of his limbs... they both laughed, and Kae reluctantly agreed.
~*~
Bernard and Perrin sat in silence, both wrapt in their own thoughts, both holding untouched, cold cups of cocoa. Judy and Curtis watched them, both working behind the counter, and both worried about their friends... well, both worried about Bernard, at least. They only worried for Perrin because he was Bernard's close friend.
Everyone jumped when Bernard slammed his mug down on the table.
I have come to a conclusion! he declared with a look of importance, staring off past Perrin's right shoulder.
Perrin encouraged. Bernard, still staring into the space next to Perrin's shoulder, grinned as if he was proud.
I'm a fucking bastard, for a minute, Perrin just stared, before he hung his head and snickered. (A/N: Mmmm... chocolate...)
Judy, however, let a faint smile touch her lips and winked at Curtis before walking out.
There are no dogs allowed in the café, Bernard just stared at her a moment, a blank look on his face. Well, you have clearly stated that you are an F-ing male dog, and there are no dogs allowed in her. Now out! Shoo shoo shoo! She pushed him off his chair and out the door. And don't come back until you've fixed your little dog problem! Bernard blinked as she slammed the door in his face and turned around, scuttling back to the kitchen. Then, he dropped his head and laughed lightly.
Good ol' Judy, his laughing soon stopped and he turned around, running what he had done over and over in his head. He was vaguely aware of Perrin at his side, and might as well of started talking to thin air.
I didn't just lie to her... I hurt her... Perrin, what can I do? I let the Dark Elf in me take over again... he was unaware of the tear that rolled down his cheek.
You're going to have to face her sooner or later, Perrin replied.
Well thank you Mr. Stating-The-Obvious... I never would have guessed! Bernard shot back, and for a moment, he smiled. It faded all too fast. Perrin... the way she looked at me... it was like she was didn't even recognize me. She looked at me like someone frightned of a stranger...
BERNARD! YOU FUCKING BASTARD! he winced as he heard Kae's voice behind him.
I know... I know... I already told Perrin, Curtis, and Judy that I am... he hung his head, his back still to her.
Damn right you are! Bernard, how could you?! Kae demanded, planting herself on the snow right in front of the Head Elf.
Kae, I couldn't control it. It was like the Dark Elf... 712 was doing it... he sighed. I know it's no excuse, but it's the truth.
Bernard, you hurt your daughter! NOW MARCH YOUR ASS BACK HOME AND TALK TO HER! the Head Elf nodded and walked past her, his head hung, staring at the snow, wondering what to say, hoping that any words would come at all.
~*~
he opened her door gently to find his daughter sitting on the bed, her back to him, petting Mika. She made no effort to reply. Sucking in a deep breath, Bernard walked across the room and stood behind her. Amber, I'm sorry. I... I shouldn't of done that. I lost my head, she still said nothing. He waited in silence for a moment, hoping she would do something... but she didn't. Amber, please, say something to me! She rounded on him, tear stains down her cheeks, eyes red from crying, teeth gritted in anger.
What?! What do you want me to say, huh? What did you think you were doing?! Do you throttle the elves down in the workshop like that when you're angry?! Bernard felt himself cowering under her venomous glare.
Amber, I-
I DON'T WANT TO HEAR IT! You think I'm stupid... you thought I wouldn't notice that you and Mom are hiding something from me! Well you know what? I do notice! We're a family! Nothing to hide, right? Those were your words, the guilt had knotted Bernard's stomach and he felt sick, but still, he tried to talk.
Amber, you don't understand-
YOU'RE RIGHT! I DON'T! So why don't you enlighten me, hmm? Why don't you tell me what's going on so that I will understand? Is that to much to ask?! Bernard knew not what to say, so instead, he hung his head, his voice small.
I can't. I'm sorry, Amber shook her head in disgust and turned back around.
Just get out, she seethed, and Bernard felt suddenly angry. He grabbed her shoulders and spun her around, Amber letting out a yelp of fright as he glared at her in a silent snarl. And for a moment, an image flashed through his head... the image of when he had gone to Curtis after getting out of prison. He remembered the look of fear Curtis had given him... that look of fear as he thought he was in the grips of a murderer.
And now, his daughter was looking at him the same way. He immediately let go of her, jumping back in fright, and Amber just stared at him, trembling slightly.
Who are you? she whispered, a slight sob in it, tears brimming in her eyes. Bernard kept his eyes locked on hers, backing up. He was half surprised when he felt the door against his back.
I-I'm sorry, Amber, he then ducked outside her room, and to his shock, ran straight into Perrin and Kae.
You gave it your all. She'll come around, honey, Kae smiled at him. Although... you repeated your mistake, you dolt. Maybe it'd cheer her up if I gave you a black eye... She joking threw a punch, and to her astonishment, Bernard didn't even move. She ended up hitting him square in the eye, and without any change in position or expression, he fell over backwards in a dead faint.
~*~
Aegis sat in the underground room with the Warders (minus Kira, who had not yet awoken). She knew something was wrong, or else Bernard would not look so seepish, and Amber would not be sitting as far away as possible, looking the opposite direction with her legs and arms crossed in defiance.
Alright, what happened? she asked finally.
Shit hit the fan, Perrin replied. Aegis groaned.
Well thank you for stating the obvious! Now will you get up here and tell me what's going on? Bernard complied, motioning for Perrin to sit down, and he and Aegis walked to the far end of the stage.
Well... when I was around the Dark Elves, I felt 712 getting stronger in me again... and my eyes turning red like they used to... he began, Aegis nodding.
Yes, that's normal, she said, more to encourage him to go on.
Well... I couldn't really control 712. Perrin and I started talking about how if Kira's father ever came back, 712 and 971 would have some fun, and Amber and Hunter started asking what was going on. I... I lost my head, and started shouting at her... I shook her back and forth, swore at her, and then stormed off, he sighed, the guilt mounting so high that the room seemed to spin. And then when I went to talk to her... I did it again...
Bernard, you're going to have to fight 712, dear. I'm sorry it has to be this way... and unless you tell her about your past, you can only hope she'll forgive you in time, she smiled at Bernard, who was rather confused.
In time for what? he asked as she turned around. Stopping, she spoke over her shoulder.
For the final battle. I would suspect you'd want to tell her how much you love her in case it was the last time you ever saw her, Aegis then vanished in a tornado of lightning, leaving Bernard to wonder about her last words.
When Bernard rejoined the group of Warders, they seemed to have just finished discussing something.
Bernard, we've come to a decision, they announced, and he nodded for Perrin to go on. You see, we think it's a bit unfair that we all know what it is that Kira lost, but she doesn't know what we all lost.
We're all going to tell eachother what it is when she wakes up... Hunter finished, and it wasn't long before all of them were looking at the floor. And suddenly, Amber burst into sobs. She fled the room, and Bernard could only stare after her, remembering...
~*~
he had called, drawing her away from Kira. She smiled at him, for she had always been a cheery girl, but it faded under her father's gaze. Amber... we need to talk.
He remembered what he had said to her, and he remembered how she had collapsed into his arms. He remembered her violent shaking... how her crying had not stopped for days, save when she slept. While she was awake, it was a steady trickle, never stopping. She didn't eat, and her sleep was restless.
After the trajedy, she had never been the same. Even now, she wasn't as happy as she was before. It had never left her... the wound had never fully healed, for it still haunted her.
And now, that wound had been completely reopened.
~*~
Bernard looked up and felt a bit of relief to see his daughter was talking to him again. However, nothing could have prepared him for what it was she was going to talk about. You're the reason they're gone, aren't you?
He knew who she meant. It sent shivers down his spine, and it pained him when she continued.
You said they took them because they were trying to get at me. It was because of you, wasn't it? her eyes were cold and merciless. For awhile, Bernard could say nothing, but he soon hung his head and nodded. You're keeping it from me, though. Even when they were taken without explanation, you still refuse to tell me? You know how much they meant to me! And you can't even tell me what's going on?!
Amber, I wish I could, he replied softly, and as her angry footsteps left the room, he burried his head in his hands and broke down completely.
~*~
Amber opened the door shyly, and Kira smiled faintly at her. Oh good, you're awake. You've been out a week!
I was tired, Kira replied softly as Amber sat down next to her. They sat in awkward silence for a few minutes before Kira began talking. While I was gone, I went over some plans... some attacks... Mechanically, she began to go over stratedgies. Amber didn't listen... her heart was torn in two with sympathy. She knew Kira didn't mean any of it... she spoke through constant sniffs as if she had been crying only moments before, which was not entirely wrong.
Amber's words seemed to pull the young elf out of a trance. We were talking... the Warders and I, that is... and we've decided that we're all going to tell eachother what it is we've lost...
Kira asked, tears beginning to run down her face again though she seemed not to notice them, her voice uneffected.
Tonight if you like, Amber tried to sound upbeat, but Kira only nodded softly, and then burst into a new wave of sorrow.
~*~
Kira! How are you? Kira was rather embarrased by the attention as the Warders all began asking her how she was.
I've been better... she smiled slightly, but it didn't touch her eyes. For awhile, they all talked, but when silence fell upon them, they knew they couldn't avoid it any longer. It was time...
Perrin exhaled loudly. Who wants to go first?
I-I will, Bernard was surprised that his daughter had volunteered, and he braced himself for what was to come. And as Amber began to speak, her gaze on the floor, he prayed for her. Not long ago, I had this group of friends... we shared everything. We loved eachother like sisters, always going everywhere together. There were four of us, and everyone said we were attatched at the hip. They were a shoulder for me to cry on... people I could always talk to... we shared everything with eachother. We would have slumber parties and stay up all night, talking about boys and what our weddings will look like and... well... that kind of stuff.
Then, one day, while I was talking to Kira, Dad took me aside. H-he told me that they... they... she had to stop for awhile, taking deep breaths as tears ran steadily down her face. They'd been kidnapped. And it was because of me. I didn't know it then, but I know now that it was Dark Elves that took them. They knew I was always with them, and they were trying to get me. When they found out that none of them were me, they tortured my friends... they were found barely alive. They were all put in a mental institution, all of them traumatized. I went to visit them, and none of them could even recognized me... they didn't know who anyone was, and they were all bound to beds. Their minds had become that of two year olds... she couldn't go on, and no one expected her to. Kira remembered that day, and she put a comforting arm around Amber. When her sobs finally died down, Perrin volunteered.
They took my parents... no reason, just for fun. They just wanted to kill someone... so they took away my family. My mother died over my unconcious body, and it hid me. When I awoke... I had nothing. I was sent to live with my Aunt and Uncle, both of which were Dark Elves. They tried to beat the light out of me, trying to get me to proclaim Darkness. They forced me to learn Dark Elf Magic... in a sense, the Dark One stole not only my parents, but my childhood, he lowered his head, signaling that he was done, and everyone sat in silence a moment. Bernard chose to go next.
I am very similar to Perrin. My parents were all I had, and Dark Elves killed them. They tried to kill me and I ended up trapped under wooden planks, which had fallen off my house. I remember running to my parents... I remember how empty they seemed...
The Elven police put me in foster home after foster home, but I wouldn't cooperate. They weren't my parents, and I wanted to make sure they knew that. I tried to kill myself many times, but something always stopped me... when I finally found my way to the North Pole, I was more alive than dead. Elves as old as I am remember me coming there, and they all tell me how no one thought I would live. They though I would drown in my sorrow. Even after that, the Dark Elves always seemed to take what I loved. They killed four of my closest friends and countless amounts of friends who weren't quite as close. They tried taking Perrin, Curtis, Judy, Jacey, and Kae... and Amber, Amber jumped when he said her name, and met his gaze in wonder. Their eyes stayed locked as Bernard went on. Kae was pregnant with Amber when he took her. Actually, she went to him to try and kill him. I remember her words... I can't die... because I'm going to be a Mommy, and you're going to be a Daddy'. He shuddered and stopped talking.
For a long while, they sat in silence. Soon, though, they all began to turn to Hunter, and saw how pale and fearful he looked.
I guess it's my turn, then... he stuttered, sweat beading on his forehead. He didn't want to do this, but he had to... he just had to... You all know what the Dark Elves took from me. Well... I mean you all know the person they took from me. She was my best friend... one of my only friends. She was the only person who ever gave me a chance... she was someone I could always go to for help, someone who was never without a smile. I loved her... loved her more than anything.
And then, I was led to believe something. I think it is a common trait of my family to be stubborn... I was led to believe that she was using me, and I was too angry and too stubborn to realize she would never do something like that... then, I told her off, and we ended up hating each other... he clenched his fists, staring hard at the floor. Bernard waited eagerly... Hunter said he knew the person, and now he wanted to know who it was. Still, Hunter said nothing, and finally, Bernard could wait not longer.
he asked gently. Who was it?
the room fell into dead silence. Bernard felt his jaw drop, and he looked to Kira to see her reaction. She was staring blankly ahead, tears forming in her eyes and running down her cheeks when they became too many. Hunter slowly raised his head to meet her gaze, and Bernard saw that he, too, had tear streaks down his face.
And for what seemed like an eternity, they just stared at eachother.
Oh kiss her already! Bernard swiveled his head to see Aegis grinning innocently before she dissapeared in her usual fashion. He turned back around, and nearly jumped to see them laugh lightly to each other and then obey. He went to put his hand over Amber's eyes, but quickly remembered that she would probably electrocute him, so he covered Perrin's eyes instead.
Perrin! What would your mother say?! he scolded, and to his surprise, Amber started laughing. She turned to him with a smile, and he grinned back weakly. And for a moment, they just stared at eachother, the bond of father and daughter rebuilding in their gaze...
But it was quickly broken when he realized Perrin had sealed his hand in a block of ice.
I'm gettin' good with this whole Warder thing, he grinned, and Bernard made a swipe at his head with his ice block of a hand. Unfortunately, seeing as Perrin had enough sense to duck and also that the ice was weighing his hand down considerably, he ended up crashing to the floor.
My Warders, Aegis mused from where she hid in the shadows, watching the elves collapse in laughter. You have finally bonded.
~*~
IT'S OUR FIRST DANCE! Hunter had to duck to avoid Amber, who was jumping up and down and making swipes at his head for no apparent reason.
Amber, we're getting stuck in a tiny room with loud music blasting in our ears and people jumping into us! she wasn't listening.
How do I look? she asked, grinning. Hunter nodded in approvement, and he had to admit she did look rather beautiful. Her make-up had been done and her hair was down for once. He realized it wasn't all the same length, the top layer curling under with the bottom layer curling out from underneath the top. It suited her well. She also wore a creamy-white sweater and a jean skirt.
You realize you're going to die of heat stroke in that, right? he ducked her punch.
The theme is Winter Wonderland! I'm not going to dress like a hula girl or something! she turned her nose up, turned around, and screamed at the top of her lungs. COME ON! WE'RE GONNA BE LATE!
~*~
Hunter watched Amber from where he sat, eating pizza drinking soda. Honestly... it was absolutely nothing like a normal school's dance... they were crammed in a very small room that was normally a classroom with carpet floors and what seemed like no air conditioning, yet she was still having the time of her life (she had successfully turned the room into a mosh pit).
When a slow song came on, she fell onto the wall next to him, breathing hard.
Wish Kira was here, eh? she asked once she had caught her breath.
You bet, he grinned back at her, and she sneered at him. Yet for some reason, when a boy named Daniel asked her to dance, he felt a familiar wave of jealousy walk over her. Strange... I'm still not over her. But I have Kira, so what do I have to worry about?
He quickly dropped this theory, and the next slow song, he asked her to dance.
So... you having fun? he asked, desperate for a topic.
her voice was heavy with sarcasm.
Hey, would you look at that. The guys are pointing at you, he told her, as they were right over her shoulder. Of course, being Amber, she made no effort to be descriet and looked over her shoulder right at them. They immediately dropped their hands and pretending to be talking about something. She rolled her eyes.
They're jerks, she shrugged her shoulders.
You sure you should be saying that? Jordan's over there, he grinned at her, and her jaw dropped.
How do you-
It's very obvious, Amber, he replied, and she put on a pouting face. Then, they got into a heated discussion of what types of cheese was better. When that got boring, they were saved by the ticket person at the doorway screaming at someone.
What idiot is tryingto get in without money? Amber laughed. Hunter spun them around so that he could see who it was, and his jaw dropped.
Kira, your dad, my dad, and Aegis, he replied. Amber dropped her hands and spun around. Perrin had become frusterated and pushed the door person over before they all burst in. Teachers started shouting at them (Mrs. Mason could clearly remember when Bernard had stolen Amber and Hunter from science class). The music stopped and everyone turned to stare, but the Warders payed them no mind.
They attacked the far end of town! Bernard cried as soon as the three reached the two, younger elves.
It was terrible! They fled before we could get to them! Kira had tears running down her face, looking like a wreck.
The death toll is terrible! Perrin shuddered, and the entire room's jaws dropped.
What are we going to do? Amber cried. Was anyone we know killed?
Thankfully, no, but we have to get back now! San-The Big Guy needs to see us immediately! Bernard caught himself, and Aegis nodded.
Quickly dears. We have to plan. Who knows when they'll strike again, they all nodded before turning and bolting out the door. Everyone exchanged glances before running after them, but by the time they reached the main doors, the strange six were no where to be seen.
~*~
Aegis... what are we going to do? Amber pleaded, but the teacher only shook her head.
Is there any way I can keep the elves at the workshop safe? Santa sounded distressed, worry dancing in his eyes.
Yeah, what's going to happen to them? What happens when they find out their town was attacked? They're only children! Bernard argued, even though there was no oen to argue with.
There is only one thing we can tell for sure after this event, Aegis bowed her head sadly as the Warders and Santa waited eagerly. They snuck in, undetected and unstopped, and attacked with no warning.
So what does this mean? Kira asked, not quite sure she wanted to know the answer. Aegis raised her head to meet their waiting gaze, regret in her heart for what she had to say next.
The North Pole is no longer safe.
~*~
They say freak,
When you're singled out,
The red...
Well, it filters through...
So lay down,
The threat is real,
When his sight,
Goes red again...
Seeing red again...
Seeing red again...
This change,
He won't contain,
Slip away,
To clear your mind.
When asked,
What made it show,
The truth,
He can't send to most.
So lay down,
The threat is real,
When his sight,
Goes red again.
So lay down,
The threat is real,
When his sight,
Goes red again.
So lay down,
The threat is real,
When his sight,
Goes red again...
Seeing red again...
Seeing red again...
Seeing red again...
Seeing red again...
Seeing red again...
Seeing red again...
Seeing red again...
See red...
They say freak,
When you're singled out,
The red...
It filters through...
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A/N: So sorry this took so long, but it was a long chapter! Twenty-eight pages! Whoo... but I got a lot of stuff in. Haha, Amber is definately modeled after me... do you think our dance sounds pathetic? You're right. ^_^ And unfortunately for me, I could only get my small little circle of friends to turn our section of the room into a mosh pit for certain songs, but what the hey? I still have fun! I'm too damn optimistic... ^_^ Well, R&R peoples!!!!!!!!!
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