Remnants of the Sky
By Zell's Girl
Rating: PG-13
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Chapter Ten: Return

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Is love something that can be found? Is it something that is tangible to your average person, or is it only for those the Goddess deems worthy? Perhaps it is just falsehood, an illusion the human mind concocts? Love is the question and answer, the paradox.

The world seems like a cruel place. People are manipulative, and will do anything for power and money, including hurt each other. In a world like this, where does love fit into our lives? Somewhere between the cracks? In the unnoticed cogs? Love is something that seems unnecessary some days, but it's all that matters on others.

Love is not something to be forced. The heart makes its own decisions. It defies knowledge. It spits upon the greater good. Love seems senseless and stubborn. It seems to fool and deceive the most reasonable of people. But, for every shadow, there is twice as much light. That light is just unnoticed when we're blinded.

But, even the blind can sense things. It does not take much to read a person's eyes. The human face gives us many kinds of signals. Signals can be crossed. Signals can be misinterpreted. Not to mention, there is the hazard of a lying tongue. With all these risks, why do people bother?

I'll tell you, it's not because of pride. Nor is it because of stature. It is not due to selfish needs or self-pleasure. It is not to keep that one, lingering moment of happiness. Love, truly, is a selfless act. As the ancients said, 'The only reasonable act is love'.

Grasp that notion and take it with you. Never lose it. There's something reassuring there. Despite the pain, despite the sorrows, despite the situation, love is there. It's sensible and reasonable and logical to love, to feel. It's not a sin to have a heart.

Love looks past so many things; love is blind. The past, the present, the future; they don't matter—love is timeless. Love makes you believe in yourself and in others. Love can make a believer out of most people, regardless of who they are.

Troubles may arise. Faith may be broken. But regardless, love is there. Love is a wonderful thing. I am happy to have known it. I am happy that you may know it. At least, we have that. Despite dilemma, despite chaos… I know that I have loved.

In your smile I have seen all the love the world has to offer. In your tears I have suffered more then any blow a sword could deal me. In your heart, I have seen more truth then in anything else. And in your eyes, I have seen sparkling rays of hope.

You made me believe in myself. For that I'm thankful. You treated me so kindly. I am most gracious. You made me laugh and you made me smile. Thank you. You were always yourself, and for that, I love you.

This is a story young woman's search of love and the broken heart of a noble knight. Remember: as hopeless as things seem, love is something to believe in.

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The first day the fourteen soldiers had left for the battle, the people of the castle were in ghastly moods. By the third day they were gone, a cloud of depression had sunk across the entire village. Yumi went through the normal day plan as best that she could. She continued meeting with Percival for a morning ride and watching the play at suppertime. Yuiri, on the other hand, seldom left her position by the blinking mirror.

Though Percival kept up his nonchalant attitude, Yumi could easily see the fear that was building within him. He became more reflective and far less outspoken. It was rather odd to see one of the Zexen Heroes so… scared.

A somber, reflective four-day period left the entire castle dreary. The actors in the plays even seemed quieter, which made Nadir bubble with rage. It was good to know that at least some things didn't change.

After the melodramatic performance of the 'Little Match Girl' (starring Louis for the fifth and final time), Yumi grew concerned about her sister who was standing alone in the main foyer. She left the bar, amidst the clapping for Louis' amazing acting, to see Yuiri.

Yumi walked down the quiet hall and exchanged quick glances with a disgruntled Estella. Rounding the corner, Yumi chirped, "Spirits bless you, dearest sister, your devotion is quite admirable!"

"Oh," Yuiri yawned, "it's good to see you, sister. How was the production?"

"Quite nice. How was your… waiting?"

"Uneventful and fruitless. Oh spirits, Yumi, what if something has happened?" cried the older girl.

Yumi assured her sister, "Worry not, Yuiri, I have faith in our soldiers. They will come back alive, all of them, I'm sure of it!"

"Such optimism… I am blessed by the spirits to have a sister like you." Yuiri hugged her sister for a brief moment before putting her back at arm's length. "Yumi, I must tell you something."

"Oh really?"

"You know how I said 'things went well'?" she reminded, "They didn't. I knocked on Sir Dios door and was greeted by Bishop Sasarai, they share a room, you see. And I… I froze. You see I told the Bishop I had the wrong door and I immediately went back to our room. I feel like such an idiot!"

"Yuiri, it's nothing to worry about. You can tell him when he returns." Yumi smiled reassuring.

"But what if he d…"

"Don't worry, he'll be back! As will all the others. Sir Percival has told me that worrying doesn't help any. And I know he's right! Just keep calm…" I never thought I'd be repeating advice from Sir Percival… Yumi thought.

"Calm…"

A strangely familiar light emanated from the blinking mirror. First came Edge dragging a panicked Rody by the arm. They were followed by Dios and Sasarai; the subordinate carrying his master carefully. Yuiri rushed over to the two Harmonians, looking back to her sister.

Yumi took one last look at the group before darting down the hall. She flung open the to the infirmary and yelled, "Lady Mio! The soldiers are coming back! Some appear injured!"

Mio nodded and grabbed several bottles of medicine and bandages. She offered Yumi a quick smile before rushing down the hall. As the nurse headed for the foyer, Yumi followed close behind.

By the time Yumi reached the foyer, everyone had returned. She quickly spotted Borus. The blonde knight has sustained a few minor cuts and had a bruise forming below his left eye, but seemed all right.

She walked over to Borus, who smiled at her widely. Yumi looked happily into his soft, hazel eye. Spirits, it was wonderful to see him alive!

People began to gather in the foyer to catch a glimpse of the triumphant heroes. "You know what…" Hugo stated as Mio wrapped the deep gash on his left arm, "I think this calls for a celebration."

Duke agreed, "Here here."

"I'd be happy to oblige! Free drinks for everyone!" Anne cheered.

The entire gathered group cheered. Everyone rushed to the bar except Mio, Borus, Yumi, Yuiri, Sasarai, and Dios. The young nurse seemed quite concerned with the bishop's condition. "Sir Dios, please bring Bishop Sasarai to the infirmary. I want to get a look at some of those cuts and burns."

"Sasarai… can you walk?" Dios asked his commanding officer who was lying on the dusty foyer floor.

Sasarai shook his head. "It's too bad though; I wanted to do some drinking too," the young-looking man joked.

Dios slowly and carefully lifted his master carefully, easing him onto his feet. "Borus, would you?" Dios asked, gesturing towards the other side of Sasarai. Borus nodded and quickly grabbed onto the bishop. Slowly but surely, the three men made it to the infirmary, with the two archers in toe.

The two soldiers lowered Sasarai onto the bed in the infirmary. Mio nodded and smiled. "All right then, thank you boys."

"Dios, go enjoy the festivities." Sasarai commanded, looking up at his subordinate.

"But Bishop Sasarai, what if something were to happen to you? It's my job to…"

Sasarai shouted, "I ordered you to enjoy the festivities! Should I fire you for disobeying my commands? And for that disrespect, I order you to party TWICE as much to make up for my lack of ability!" Though orders were sounded disgruntled, Sasarai smiled the entire time.

"Sir, yes sir!" Dios agreed, running across the hall to the bar.

Sasarai smiled at Yuiri. "Make sure Dios doesn't cause too much trouble."

Yuiri chirped, "Yes, bishop!" She bowed quickly and ran across the hall, trying to catch up with Sir Dios.

"May you be blessed with health, Bishop." Yumi nodded.

"Thank you. You both are dismissed." Borus and Yumi exited the infirmary as Mio applied some medication to the wound on Sasarai's leg.

Upon entering the hallway, Yumi embraced Borus with as much strength as she had. "I am so happy you're all right." Yumi held onto the knight for what seemed like hours without the slightest resistance. When she let go, she looked up into his dark eyes.

"I suppose we don't have much time left… Yuiri and I are probably leaving tomorrow afternoon…"

"That is…" Borus sighed, "that's too bad."

Yumi muttered, "I must finish packing but… But you enjoy the party. I'll be down later… Maybe an hour or so."

"I'll see you then."

As Borus watched Yumi walk off, instead of heading for the party he departed for his own room. On the mission, Bishop Sasarai gave him some great advice. Borus was going to write a letter to Yumi, a tangible object of his affection that she could hold on to.

Borus knew exactly what to write. He had a precise plan of every word and how to slip her the letter secretly (which is far more romantic) for her to find someday later. A wonderful plan indeed.

Borus sat at his desk and pulled out his stationary. He wrote quickly and rhythmically, rushing to complete an artistic and eloquent declaration. Borus almost felt silly, but he knew it had to be said and he probably wouldn't get a chance to say it.

After completing the letter and folding it carefully, Borus ran down to the empty stairway to the dungeon. Sure as day, Kidd, the investigator, detective, and mercenary in non-warlike matters, was still in his office.

"Hello Kidd. I need you very quickly to slip this note into Yumi's bag, and make sure you are NOT found." Borus placed the note in the boy's hand. "I need this done TONIGHT."

Kidd gapped. "Are you serious? How much money am I getting for such a short notice task!?"

Borus dug into his pocket, praying he had some money on hand. He pulled out several gold and copper coins and mentally counted them. "Is two thousand all right?"

Kidd thought for a second. It wasn't like he had much time left at Budehuc, so he knew he should try to make as much money before setting out to the Black Rose Empire. "Okay… But you owe me."

"Fine, fine! Just go already!"

"Okay, I'm on the case!" Kidd chimed, dashing past the night and up the stairs. He had a lot to do.

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Kidd edged slowly towards the room that belonged to the two Alma Kinan women. He looked under the door. The lights weren't on. Good. The coast was clear. Kidd quickly opened the door and slipped into the room.

Kidd looked about the room. It smelled of Yumi's chocolate chip cookies and the green walls seemed to scream 'nature'. Kidd scanned the area, and noticed two bags. One was a simple black leather bag and the other was blue, adorned with many blue and green beads.

Kidd starred at the two bags. What was he to do?

Outside, Kidd heard footsteps. Kidd quickly slipped the letter into the blue bag and dove under the bed. The door handle turned. Kidd watched two familiar leather boots move across the floor.

"Ah, there's the book." Yuiri murmured, approaching the desk to Kidd's left. The boy watched quietly, praying to Sadie not to be discovered. "I should remind Yumi not to leave the door unlocked…"

And with that, Yuiri left, shutting the door. Kidd let out a sigh of relief and waited for a moment, before taking his own leave.
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End Chapter Ten