Destiny

*Disclaimer*

I DON'T OWN DIGIMON.

Author's Note:

To those who had guessed who the main character is in this chapter (Which I think everyone should know of it or speculate it already), rest assured that this particular character will not be the same as the one in the anime (Which I kinda hated). I've altered and given this character more personalities in a way everyone will like him (And I hope, it can possibly change peoples' point of view on this character). ^_^

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Destiny – Prologue Seven : The Power of Nature Blossomed

The world was once dark and filled with terror…

Humans and lower beings, all were run like dogs, as if they were without conscious, without the ability to think. They were practically slaves. To top the dark time up, warlords lashed out at each other like hungry hounds that thirst for blood. Even as they gain more lands and properties, the war still continues on. It was as if their achievements were only mere small trinkets that couldn't satisfy their needs. And so, the war went on and on. Never ending unless one emerge triumph.

The ruler…

The ultimate…

But then, King Seferius, the Inochi-ou, brought everything to a stop and establish a Gaea where everyone is equal. Ruled by fair and kind-hearted kings and queens. The seven Castle Cities, which were formed after the Age of Darkness, stood high and mighty like the capital castle itself, Ovelia. These eight main castles were proving of the triumph over Evil.

Ovelia itself was the center capital where the head of the council is situated. The council's main purpose was to ensure the safety of Gaea and also the peace that King Seferius had brought, was maintained. And so, each Castle Cities, where the lords of each continent reside, will have the guidance, or rather a watcher, from the council. Things were peaceful for several hundreds years.

But overtime…

The slightest hint of darkness in the heart of human and other inhabitants of Gaea had reappeared again. Greed and thirst for power was emerging more and more as the good side wavered and started to thin out. Through observing, many are amongst those powerful and the wealthy, considerably, the lords of some continents. The council tried all ways they could to stop the horrible wars from appearing again on he face of Gaea. So far, they have been able to keep this darkness at bay.

But as the time of the prophecy comes near, things are getting way out of hand for the councils. In continents where the lords, the person in charge of a village or a town, citizens had suffered. Foods are no longer distributed to the needed, unrest started to appears, and all kinds of problems started to emerge. In conjunction with that, the council decided to station some military academies in a few towns, that are still of trustworthy, to train young Gaean, in hope that they would be able to stop any wars that will be erupted in the future.

For safety reasons, the councils only set up the military academy in three continents' capital cities. One of them was in Mescaria, the Land of Machinery. With a big town being its capital and a still loyal and just lord, the council, in hope of accomplishing their duties, quickly establishes a training facility in Mescaria. The lord, who had controls in the Mescaria region and also wished for the best of Gaea's safety, gave an order to his faithful subject. It was stated that willing citizens could sign up for the training, be it a child or an adult, male or female.

Many years later, there were battalions of ready warriors that are willing to protect the world when needed be. Yet, the training continues. For the council knows, the Evil, as said in ancient scriptures that have been discovered so far, is more powerful than Gaea's entire inhabitant combined. Even though the council knows their effort was in vain, at least there would be a tiny string of hope that humanity can cling to.

Yet, as hopeless as it seems, the Gods, though unable to stop the crisis that will befell the world, decided to play with fate again…

A boy who will join the army, will be the one destined to stop the unstoppable. With the power of the guardian, he will be one of the seven who are destined to fight for their own loved ones. This seven Chosen One, being powerful, was the last resort where the Gods have put all faith in them.

Should they fail…

All would be lost…

*******

1006 years and four months A.D. …

A boy sat rested atop a large boulder beside a pond that have crystal-clear water. The soft splashing of the miniature version of the waterfall, which had flowed from the mountaintop, was of a wondrous melody to him. The scent of flowers that surrounded the place was a beautiful side to behold. Even the odd appearance of this boy in the forest, blend in nicely with the surroundings.

As he lied down and read a letter, which he had just received, the boy's light blond hair, which he kept it short and a little spiky, wavered and causes his bangs to fall to one side. His cyan colored eyes trailed down the notes attentively as he read it word by word. Without him knowing it, his mouth had voice out every single thing.

"Dear Wallace de Winter, we're pleased that you've signed up for the Mescaria Youth Brigade. We're proud to inform you that you're accepted into our training academy." The boy's face brightens as he continues to read, skipping other nonsense that are not important, "The carriage that are assigned to fetch you and the other new recruits will be in one week time. Please finish whatever unfinished business of yours before then. When the time comes, kindly gathers at the outskirt of the village, at the Chrorona Bay."

The boy, Wallace, threw the note high up in the air and shouted out his joy. For years since a child, he had wished that he could join the academy. Now, his dream was realized just before the day he turns thirteen. And what better presents he could receive than this? Words couldn't possibly describe his jumbled emotions even as he jumps to the ground.

But he was interrupted by a laugh behind him.

Wallace turns around only to be greeted by a boy of his age with light brown hair and matching eyes. He wore a simple blue T-shirt that has a cape and completed with a knee length gray pants. His voice was childish and soft as he asked Wallace, "So you are accepted to the academy too, huh?"

Wallace asked in disbelief, "You too?" The new boy nodded his head and Wallace exclaimed in a very stunt voice, "No way! This is something big, something really serious!"

The new boy tilted his head one side and demanded questioningly, "What's so 'no way'? Is it funny for me to be in the brigade? It's practically what I had wished for."

"I'm sorry of my unnerving reaction. But you never told me about it since we knew each other. And it's just…" Wallace struggled to put in a correct word to not offend his friend. "It's just… I'm surprised that's all. I mean, I thought you would prefer to be something else, Takato."

The boy, Takato Matsuda, shrug it all off. He replied, "Don't worry or even bother to excuse your behavior. I know it is kind of surprisingly for a boy like me will be going to the academy as well. But… who wouldn't want to? The academy is the pride of Mescaria."

"I get what you mean." Wallace nodded knowingly. "But who cares about that! We should get back now and tell our family the good news. I'm sure they'll be totally spooked. And if the situation heated, we might as well throw in a party!"

"That would be great. Imagine if we were to stuff ourselves like the time when we have a wedding party to honor the new couple. It would be totally hilarious." Takato thought about the incident that had happened just the year before with twinkles in his eyes.

Wallace, being sensible, knocks his friend out of his dream world. Though he himself is an enthusiastic person and kind of hyper for his age, just like Takato, he needs to be the one in control all the time. Or the two of them might have wreaked havoc by causing pranks around the village.

As Takato rubbed his head where Wallace had hit, the cyan-eyed boy suggested, "I think we should head home now." The blond hair boy turns his gaze at the setting sun and continues, "It's getting pretty late and our parents might be worried of where we had been to."

Takato, who also had his gaze focused on the setting sun, nodded in agreement. As if they were given command, both of them departed from the forest with matching speed and motion, headed toward town. The walk was a silent one, though Takato didn't forget to keep the situation lively by half humming and half whistling a tune.

 As the pair reaches the gate of the town, which is about to close, they race in, trying to beat the other. It was proven that Takato was the faster of the two when they stopped at a lamppost to catch their breath. Even in that condition, Takato didn't forget to announce his victory, "I beat you… again."

"I'm going to be the one who laugh in the end next time." But Wallace knew it was impossible. The two looks at each other and enjoyed a hearty laugh.

When the laugh subsided, Wallace said, "I would really need some serious training to ever beat you in a race. You're always three meters ahead of me!"

Takato smiled as he replied, "I guess it helps to have longer legs."

"As if I don't?"

"Well…"

Wallace decided to leave it as that by motioning his friend to save the answer for himself since the cyan-eyed boy himself knew it was not true. The reason he always lost was only because Takato was more athletic of the two. Wallace, being a rich man son, seldom got the chance to go out his house compound.

With that small argument left aside, the two walked towards their own house, which is quite near to each other. Along the way, they pass shop houses that have wonderful displays of their goods that were observed through the glass. There were a few things that Takato and Wallace fancied, but they decided to leave the matter for tomorrow. If they were to be late any longer, Wallace was sure the two of them would be grounded, considering how resemblance their mother were when it comes to them. And to say that he had sneak out of the house for the umpteenth times, things couldn't get any better.

Soon, the two parted ways and Wallace continues back alone in a hurried pace. Not long after, a huge house, or rather a mansion came into sight, the place where he called home. However, the boy didn't walk up to the front gate. Instead, he sidetracks to the wall that surrounded the house compounds, which have overgrown plants that creeps it.

At a certain part, Wallace stops his pace. He made sure that no one was watching him and when he's sure that he's perfectly unnoticed, he crept through a small opening that was well hidden among the overgrown plants.

It was a perfect sneak in, however…

"Ouch!"

Someone pulled at his ear with a vicious tug. As Wallace turned and faces the 'captor', he discovered that it was his mother. He put on his most charming smiles and asked his mother in a nervous voice, "Uh… hi mom! It's already dark. What are you doing here?"

The woman, Eva Alexandria, dressed in a satin gown and neatly braided hair, was a beautiful sight to behold. One glance, and it would capture most men's heart. But at this moment, even her perfect face was twisted with anger. It clearly marked that she is more than furious.

Eva shouted in anger, "Did you think that you could keep this secret opening of yours from me knowing it? This is the last you've disobeyed me!" She pulled the unwilling boy across the magnificent garden by the ear and continued, "You and I are going to have a long serious talk, young man!"

As the door slammed open, a man that stood in the hall shook his head. The man, Wallace's father, Treitz de Winter, was too familiar already with the sound of the door and the sound of his son protesting. It wasn't the first time that this incident had occurred. He decided to check out how this time 'talk' will unfold.

Wallace was forced to sit on a cushioned armchair as his mother strides across the marble floor to the seat opposite him. Her eyes, that undoubtedly showed her anger, were affix on the boy. Her words came out like sledgehammer to Wallace. "Now, you better have a good reason of you disobeying, or you're grounded for the rest of your life."

"I-"

But Eva interrupted, "Couldn't you be like your brother? You're a person of high status, but you don't behave as one! If this continues to happen, our family name is going to be ruined!" Eva next choices of words were dripped with venom, "Again, I repeat, what is the reason for you sneaking out?"

Wallace was at lost at words. He doesn't have a reason to go out of the house, except just to have some fun. He couldn't possibly say that he hang out with Takato later or his mother would say; "How many times have I told you not to hang around with those of the lower class?" That wouldn't only bring him into a serious situation, Takato's life, in his opinion, might be endangered too.

Wallace searched through his always-scheming mind to come out with a possible lie. But then, the letter he had received from the academy came into picture. He knew his mother had always wanted one of her children to join the academy; so, he brought out the letter from his pocket and said, "Mom, I got a letter from the academy."

The woman continues to nag on, "You're changing the subje…"

As Wallace words became clearer to her, she quickly snatched the letter that was in Wallace's hand. She quickly unfolded it and read through the lines. Treitz, who had just entered the main room, heard the last part where Wallace had said he received a letter from the academy. He hurried to his wife's side and joins her in reading it. Their eyes move intently, while scrolling down the letter. Every single letter and words, none were missed. And one must be blind to not see the signature of approval and the official seal at the end of the letter.

Wallace breathes a sigh of relief to successfully get his mother off his back for the time being. He expects her to continue her 'talk' after she is done digesting what's in the letter. However, he didn't expect it when Eva walks up to him and hugs him tightly and said to no one, "My boy is finally all grown up!"

Both Wallace and Treitz sweat dropped at Eva's sudden change of mood. This has never failed to surprise Treitz though they have been a couple for so long. Leaving the matter aside, Treitz said to Wallace, "Son, you've just made both your mother and father the proudest person in the world."

Wallace didn't say anything in return. Instead, he just smiled as his father continues, "One will gains lots of respects in the academy. This is the best opportunity for you to grow up and be a man."

After hours and hours of congratulating, pointless talks, and after his mother cried out the last drop of her tears, Wallace finally got the chance to be alone in his room. He plops down on the curtain covered bed thankfully and let out a long sigh. His parents had really taken all his energy. So, he closes to close his eyes and tried to sleep.

But then…

The loud sound of knocking on his door disturbed him. Wallace growled as he unwillingly stood on his feet and walks to greet the person on the other side. When he opened it, there stood his brother, Carter de Winter, and also his younger sister, Amelia de Winter, or rather known as Amy. The other two sibling of the Winter family, like their father and Wallace, have light blond hair and emerald colored eyes. But Carter's eyes were of his mother colour, which is blue. And Amy's hair has a few strands that are brown in colour, again, like her mother's.

Amy, being the quiet one in the family, walks over to Wallace bed and sat on it with her teddy bear in a tight embrace. Carter however, invited himself in as Wallace shuts the door. When everyone have settle down, the oldest of the three spoke in an authoritative voice, "So, brother, I heard that you were accepted to the academy. Was it true?"

Wallace, who always couldn't stand his brother attitudes, answered with a very annoyed tone, "Yes, nosy. If you need the proof, the letter is in…" Wallace pointed to the direction of his study table, "…that drawer."

Wallace and Carter aren't in the best of terms since Wallace turns seven. The main reason was probably the difference in their attitudes. For one, Carter always thinks that he's the best, the one who controls everything, the conqueror. In short, he acted as if he was a god. On the other side, Wallace prefers a low identity and often mixed with the other people. So, that sets the two apart.

"I'll see for myself."

Carter ignored the name that Wallace had called him and headed for the table. He opens the drawer and then picks up the letter. Silently, Carter read every single of the letter's components.

When he's done with it, he simply threw the letter on the table and said, "I guess you just got lucky, little brother." The older boy snorted as he went on, "Who would actually accept you, a person who can't even obey his own family's rules, to the academy? I guess this must be a mistake."

Wallace felt like gorging his brother's heart out. His mind screamed, 'Even though he's jealous, and that he's my brother, that doesn't mean that I'll tolerate his insults!'

But before the two start fighting, the youngest of the Winter family said in a soft, yet sure tone, "The person who writes that letter was sure of what he's writing…." Carter tried to say something, but Amy cut him off before any words were even out. "I can sense that there are no lies in there…."

Carter knew better to doubt his younger sister sixth sense. Amy has the gifted ability to sense something that she couldn't see or something that haven't happen yet. For an instance, she predicted that a restaurant in town would go on fire. In the beginning, everyone thought she talks nonsense, but after a few weeks, the restaurant did caught fire because of an accident. After that incident, people started to listen to whatever she said when she was like in a trance mode. But as of this moment, Carter wasn't satisfied that his younger brother got both his parent attentions. So, without saying another word, he stomps out of the room, leaving the door ajar.

Wallace turns to his sister and thanks her for backing him up. Amy smiled, which is something that she seldom shows in front of anybody except Wallace, and said, "I didn't do anything except to tell the truth. But I think it was probably because I don't like big bully to tease Willis."

'Willis' was the name Amy always used when she addresses Wallace. She found it hard to pronounce the name 'Wallace' when she was four, so she opts to one that she found suitable and easier instead. And the nickname that she has given to Carter was easily guessed why.

Through some reason, Amy was the one who had always been the closest to Wallace. No one is sure of the reason. But that is why Wallace is asking her something of importance as of now. "Amy, would you be all right when I go to the academy? I mean, would you be bore or no one to talk with?"

Amy, still has the same smile on her lovely face, replied, "Don't worry brother, I've known that you would be leaving us for some time already."

Wallace just raised an eyebrow as the young girl continues. But Wallace was shock to see the pupils in her sister's eyes are gone, leaving only a blank expression….

The girl spoke in an adult like tone, which is very different from her cute, innocent voice.  "But Willis, please keep this advice in mind. 'Be careful of the eye... The eye that haunts you even in sleeps… But face it you should… For the prize in return will be satisfying…'"

And then the girl's eyes are back to normal. Wallace had no idea what his sister had tried to warn him. Her prediction had always come out in poem form, or riddle-like. That is one thing bad about her prediction. But his sister's warning had set him to be more careful during his time in the academy….

*******

A week later…

The day of departure…

Eva hugs her son and wished him luck as the chauffeur loaded Wallace's luggage into one of the many horse carriages. When Eva was done with her farewell speech, which took nearly about fifteen minutes, talking about taking care of himself and stuff that Wallace knew he could have handled easily, Treitz finally got the chance to wish his son all the best.

The man has both his hands on Wallace's shoulders. They look into each other eyes and exchange no words. When his father intense gaze lost to Wallace's determination one, Treitz finally embraces his son and let his other children to say their own farewell. Treitz oldest son, Carter, just snorted in disgust and look away, not wanting to see his brother get all the praise and attention. Where else, Amy grabs both of Wallace's hands and shakes them enthusiastically.

When the horn was blown, signaling for the time for departure, the Winter family said their last, but not the final farewell as Wallace boarded into the same carriage as Takato. The cyan-eyed boy sticks out his head through the window and waved as the carriage started down the rough lane. Takato, Wallace best friend, also did the same to his family.

When his family is all but a speck in the horizon, Wallace finally settles on the comfy seat. He looks at Takato and asks him some questions. Since there were only two of them in the carriage, the two didn't hold back any private questions as they continue to chat until they reach their destination.

"So, how did your family take your news when they heard of your joining the academy?" Wallace asked.

Takato said enthusiastically, "You wouldn't believe it if I tell you." Regardless of it, the brown hair boy went on, "My mother fainted the moment she read my letter. Thank god my dad was able to catch her. Or the bread that we've been making would have been ruined."

The two continue to talk and talk. All sorts of questions were thrown in and jokes seem to fly out of nowhere. They smiled and laughed all the time, but when the topics seem to run out, the two of them resorted to something else and fell into a deep slumber instead, even as the carriage bumps on the rough road.

*******

When Wallace opens his eyes, he caught sight of the huge academy through the window. He wakes his friend as he motioned for the still sleepy Takato to look out the window. The brown hair boy rubbed at his eyes and semiconsciously does what Wallace had told him. But his eyes snap wide open when he laid eyes on the amazing structure before him.

Huge bricks rampart surrounded the academy as if it was a stronghold. As the steel gate opened, and as the horse carriages trotted in, Wallace, Takato and the other new recruits have their first side of the academy. The buildings, all the living quarters and offices alike, are all painted white with blue and yellow linings. The living quarters, which serve as homes for the academy's citizens, were lined along the road.  There were lots of soldiers, squires, and rookies running in and out these buildings. None were paying them any attentions, obviously because each have more important chores or duties to attend to.

Further along the road, larger buildings laid apart from each other with gardens surrounding them. Wallace guesses that these building are meant for those of the higher rank in the academy, like major. As they continue deeper, they came to a plaza that has a fountain in the middle. Surrounding the place, there were casino, bar and all sorts of entertainments for the peoples who live here. Takato was beginning to wonder if the academy was actually a town by itself with all the conveniences around.

Finally, the horse carriages stops in front of a building that is possibly larger than those that Wallace and Takato had chanced upon. A few men in uniforms, which look like the guards, came jogging out the building and opened the carriage door. Wallace, not forgetting his courtesies and manners, thanked the person who opened the door for him as he steps out with Takato. The brown hair boy was too busy admiring this large building than to thank the guard. Though he did thank the person right after Wallace gave him a nudge at his side. Wallace didn't blame the boy since this building was magnificent even without the wonderful scenery that surrounded it.

They were ushered into this building that has three towers at the top. As they walked up the stone steps, Wallace, for the first time, got to look at the other new recruits. There were eleven of them, excluding he himself and Takato. Other than another boy and a girl of their age, it seems like the rest are all adults. However, his thought was driven away as he entered the door that opened by itself as they come near.

Immediately, cold air came rushing to Wallace's face.

They were continuing to be brought along the corridor. All the while, the two boys were admiring the place, though Wallace house was magnificent, he could tell that this place was better. They finally stopped in front of a two-sided oak door. The guard, the escort, in front, pushed open the door and they all step into an impressive office. Wallace got the feeling that they are in the room of the highest ranking person.

The chair behind the huge table, spin around and revealed and elderly man with curly beard. The man wore a green uniform and right above his cloth's left pocket, there were countless badges that lined the material. Wallace quickly straightens his back before he was even done staring at the man's achievement. Takato, who notices Wallace's reaction, did the same as well.

The man cupped his hand together and leaned back on the chair, examining each and every one of them. When his eyes stopped on Wallace, he raises an eyebrow, as if he recognizes the boy 's feature. But it was only short while because he continues eyeing the rest. When he's done, he speaks out in a very welcoming voice, "First of all, let me welcome you all to this military academy of Akedamia. Allow me to introduce myself; my name is Deloras Trasqtefla, the person who is in charge of everything here. As I can see, you all have great potentials in each of you. That is why I hoped that everyone here would be the best of the best."

The man pauses and stood up. "There are not much rules that are applied here. But I strictly insist that you all should or rather must obey the one that had been set." He walks to the front of his desk and eyed each and every one of them again. "Your quarters… are all readied and made. And I believe that all your luggage and belongings had been moved to your respective quarters that have all the needed facilities. Also, each quarter is to be shared by two candidates. My right-hand man…" Deloras motioned to a person who isn't there earlier to come forward. He then continues, "Major Yavain here, will tell you who your roommate will be."

Deloras went on with an impatient tone. To Wallace, it seems like the man wasn't use to this type of speech. But Wallace once again focuses on the general's words, "I believe that all of you are tired after a long journey. So you may all retire to your quarters. Major Yavain will lead you all there. But one last statement… the Commotion Plaza, the place where all the amusement are situated, it is forbidden to any candidates to enter that area except on weekends. That will be all."

The new recruits started to retreat to the door after Major Yavain walks out of it. But before Wallace could go, Deloras called and motioned for him to come forward. The cyan-eyed boy shoots his friend, Takato, a curious glance before he moves toward the general. Wallace, stood at attention and asked, "Yes, sir?"

After the room is empty and the door is shut tightly, Deloras sat on his desk and asked the boy, "You're Treitz de Winter son, am I not mistaken?"

Wallace nodded and the man went on, "As I expected, you resembles him a lot." Wallace was surprise that the general knew of his father. But Wallace didn't say anything because it seems that Deloras is trying to tell him something important. "Treitz and I, we were best friend when we were your age. But somehow we moved and got separated. We lost contact, as we have not the chance to inform each other. But here you are, his son, standing in front of me. I guess he must have a wonderful family now. How is he, my boy?"

"He's in the pink of health, sir."

Deloras nodded and went on, "Perhaps we should continue with this private chatting some other time. I best not keep Major Yavain waiting for you. But in any case, I expect a lot from you."

Wallace bowed to the man and said, "You're very kind, sir. I'll be off then."

*******

Two years later…

A boy with blond hair walks into the teahouse and sat down on one of the available seat. When he was properly seated, he looks from one end to the other. As expected, the place is crowded with peoples who wanted a time out in the hard days of training. Unlike the adults in the bar, who would be waving jugs of alcohol and laughing like there was no tomorrow, those who are here are more socialize. They chatted and laugh amongst friends and share their weekly excitement.

Currently, the blond hair boy, Wallace, is waiting for his friend, Takato, who is running a chore for one of his superior. As he waits for the boy's arrival, a girl of his age, wearing a yellow blouse with green dress and silky brown hair that have a small ponytail at her side, came up to him and asked, "What would your orders be, handsome?"

Wallace laughed and told the girl, "Juri, quit fooling around or Takato might kill you."

The girl, Juri Katou, was the daughter of the person who owns Refreshment, which is the name for the teahouse Wallace's in. Takato and Wallace had met with the girl, the first week of their arrival, two years ago. However, they met her in a very unlikely situation. A drunken soldier was pulling at her arm when they saw her, and who knows what the man is trying to do to her. But, Wallace and Takato, being sensible, knock the wind out of the man and teach him a lesson that he'll never forget. And since then, they were always together. Well, Juri was closer to Takato; consider the two had a thing or two for each other. As Wallace had put it, 'Love in first sight.'

Juri laughed as well and said, "There wasn't any harm in joking with my friend is it? But anyway, what do you want for your orders?"

"The usual."

"Okay, the usual it is."

The girl walks off to the direction of the counter and set down Wallace's orders. And right at that moment, Takato burst through the door and into the teahouse with sweat covering him. This however, didn't even attract any attentions from the peoples present. Takato searched the crowd and when he saw Wallace, he headed there and sat down with a dull thud. The brown hair boy released a breath of relief as he did so.

Wallace giggled and asked, "Sergeant Gunglain sure got you worked up didn't he?"

Takato nodded and told the boy, "You could never have imagine what he tried to put me through. He had me running all over the academy just to deliver a few documents." As the boy went own, a low growl escapes his lips. "If he weren't my superior, and could send me packing for home the instance he said it, I would have given his sorry ass a kick, the moment I get the chance."

Wallace laughed and tried to cool down his friend. Takato however, didn't stop rambling, "And moreover, today is Saturday! It should be a public holiday for everyone! I-"

Juri's voice interrupted right then,  "Hi, Takato!"

Wallace thanked the girl in his heart, silently. Takato could have gone on for days if he were to continue. He knew he and Sergeant Gunglain wasn't in the best of terms since they met for the first time. And from that day onwards, Takato had picks up the habit to complain about him to the only available friend, Wallace, whenever he got the chance. Other than that minor change, Takato was still his usual self.

The boy, forgetting the nuisance in his mind, which is Sergeant Guinglain, turned his gaze on the beautiful girl, "Juri, how have you been?"

"I'm fine, thank you for caring," Juri answered with a smile as she places down the ordered food; a bento set with lemonade.  Takato couldn't help but blushed a bit at the girl's irresistible charming smile.

Wallace, notices his friend's reaction, decided to tease on the boy, "Why don't you be a little straightforward and tell her whatever that has been kept or should I say, sealed in your heart for the past two years already?"

Both Takato and Juri turned crimson red as Wallace laughed. Takato pouted a little, having not a thing to counter his friend's word or at least get back at him. Juri however, have already formed a plan in her mind. She voices it out clearly for the laughing boy; "I think there would be no free meal as of today for certain someone."

Wallace immediately quieted down. Takato snickered a bit as he place down his own orders. Juri jotted it down in a small notepad and walks off to the direction of the counter again. Then Takato turned back to Wallace, who is currently sipping his lemonade, and confirmed about something that they had planned, "So, we, the three of us, are going to the new place we've just discovered tomorrow, right?"

"Yes," Wallace nodded. "I thought it would be best for us to have some real holiday since we haven't the time to leisure around for the last two years with all the trainings and practices sessions. This would be the best opportunity for me to relax myself, both mentally and physically."

"I hope Juri didn't forget about it," Takato said worriedly. "She has to much work to do nowadays. Since she's becoming of age, this shop will soon be hers to take over."

"I though Juri has a little brother, Masahiko Katou?"

"Masahiko is too young to inherit this place," Takato told his friend. "And besides, he's only Juri's stepbrother you know?"

At that moment, Juri had arrived with Takato's food and drink, and places it in front of him, carefully, not wanting to spill or drop anything. She sat down at one of the two empty seats and asked, "So, do the two of you still remember about the picnic we've organize?"

"That's funny. We're about to ask you the exact same question a second after you asked. We were worried that you'll forget to make the sandwiches for tomorrow," Wallace said.

Juri clutches the round tray near her chest and replies back, "One thing that you should know, Wallace, I'm not a forgetful person. So, just relax and eat your lunch before it gets cold." She hesitated as she asked her next question, "Are you guys sure with this picnic? I mean, with this 'trouble' going on now a days… don't you think… it's best if we not go?"

Takato asked with the food still stuffed in his mouth, "Trouble? What trouble?"

"You know, the latest that's going on…"

"Oh that!" Wallace exclaimed.

For the past month, there have been some weird incidents going on in the academy. People have been reported lost. They just seem to vanish into thin air. And just as sudden they had disappeared; they reappear again, only in a coma state. The doctor of the academy couldn't find the cause of the problem. All the victims seem to be in a person shape. No harm or anything serious befell them. They were just… asleep.

Wallace shook his head and waved gingerly as he told the girl, "I don't think there's anything to worry about Juri. There are two rookies who happen to be really good in the art of fighting. You don't worry about anything cause you're in perfect hand."

"I…" the girl started. "I guess so." She sighed and put on her best smile, "I think I'm beginning to become more and more like my mom, always worrying about something small. I think I really do need this picnic after all."

With the picnic procedure left aside, the two boys enjoyed a wonderful lunch, munching and gulping away. Juri stayed for a while watching them gobble up their food like hungry wolves that haven't eaten a decent food for days and at the same time, chatted with them. That gave Takato the chance to continue his complains on Sergeant Guinglain. All the time through the story, Wallace kept sighing and dropping his face on the table. Where else, Takato, who is too busy complaining, didn't notice it, but Juri laughed as the 'thud' sounded against the round wooden table.

But Juri didn't stayed for long since she got other duties. So, she left when Takato finishes his tale. That leave the two boys the time they needed to sort next week's timetable. However, after around fifteen minutes, they took their leave and headed for their quarters.

When they exited, the sun is already setting in the western horizon. The moon of Gaea that reflected the sun's light could already be seen. Letting the forces of nature takes place, the two boys kept their silence as they walked along the road. But they weren't alone. At this time of day, adults would be storming out of their quarters, and into the bar or casino. Today was of no difference.

After a tiring walk, Takato slumped onto his bed and never got up to take a bath or even a change of clothe, since his current one is soaked with sweat. However, Wallace didn't disturb the boy's slumber since he knew how tire the brown hair boy would be. So, he decided to just take a change of clothe and slipped into bed, waiting for tomorrow to come…

*******

Morning came and Takato unwillingly woke up. Not that he wanted to, but there is this certain shaking and certain voice that is pestering him to wake up. He shook off the person's hand as reality hit him. His eyes jolted opens and focuses on the alarm clock next to his bed.

The time gadget showed, ten past nine.

He sat up with a surprised yelped as he rushes to take a short shower. He quickly pulls on his usual blue shirt that has a hood and also his trademark gray pants. All the time, Wallace was sitting on his own bed, shaking his head in defeat. There couldn't possibly be a day that the brown hair boy would wake up in time. This problem always causes Wallace to have trouble with attending to training session in the morning and causes whomever in charge to freak out.

When Takato was done, Wallace quickly passes the backpack that they have been packing the other night before, to the brown hair boy. Takato, in hurry, snatched the bag from Wallace and rushes out the house without even waiting for his friend.

Wallace shook his head as he followed the boy. But before that, he shuts the door and make sure that it was securely locked before breaking into a jog to the place they have promised to meet. He passes a few privates who is heading to where ever their destination is. Wallace also passes some high-ranking officers. He stopped and greeted them whenever he saw one.

As Wallace neared the Commotion Plaza, the fountain that is built in the center of the plaza came into view. Wallace hurried his pace as he thought about how Juri would react to them being late. His worries were answered when he saw Takato bowing countless time towards the girl who had her arms crossed. A basket was beside the fuming girl.

When Juri notices Wallace, she turned towards him and asked, "I guess Takato woke up late again isn't it? It would be highly unlikely for you to be not punctual."

Wallace blinked his eyes in confuse, "Takato didn't tell you the reason?"

"He just said that he's sorry for being late. But, what other excuse that Takato could come up with whenever he's late?" The girl turned towards the brown hair boy. Takato could feel his sweat flowing down the back of his neck at the girl's intense glare. She then asked Wallace, "I wonder how many time that he's overslept?" Juri answered for herself, "Probably enough time to get you and him into a lot of troubles."

Wallace wanted to agree. But he wouldn't want to get his friend into a more serious trouble. So he decided to break the argument, "Let's forget about this and hurry to the picnic ground."

Juri, forgetting the incident… temporary, smiled and nodded. She took up the basket at her feet, but Takato offered to take for her instead, which the girl gladly handed it to him. Being careful not to destroy the contents in the basket, Takato took the basket with utmost care. He wouldn't want to add another haven't lectured lecture to Juri's list of complains on him.

The trio walks out of the civilization, to the forested area, which is also in the compound of the academy. This area doesn't attract anybody from the academy. Therefore, it is still a beautiful land with healthy green trees that beautify the scenery. And as an added bonus, the air was cool and fresh in that area. The only thing is, being enclose in the academy compound, there would not be any animals there except the bugs and birds that lived there.

As they neared, they continue to walks deeper into the forest. They ducked under branches and walks over logs that are suspended above the stream. Not long later, the forest thinned, and opened into a meadow, filled with cloverleaves and flowers of all kind. This is the secret haven they have discovered a few days ago when they are snooping around in this area. No one would know of this place, except them.

They simply picked a spot and Wallace removed a large white cloth from his backpack. He laid the material on the ground as Takato disappeared to fill the flask he had brought with some water from the nearby stream. Juri took out sandwiches that she had personally made and places them on plates she had brought along.

Soon after that, Takato returned with a flask that is filled with clean, cold water. Juri took the flask from the boy and poured it into a jug. She returned to her basket and searches through it as she brought out a small bottle. She emptied the content of the bottle into the jug and stirred it with a spoon. With that done, she took out three glasses and places them next to the jug.

Now, with everyone seated and the food readied, the picnic could be start. The three of them chorused, "Itadakimasu!"

As soon as they said that, they all grabbed for a sandwich. Takato took a bite and commented on how nice it was. Juri smiled and said a thanks as she took a bite herself, agreeing with Takato on the taste. Wallace took a look at the ingredients of the sandwich before he finishes it.

When he's done emptying the two slices of bread into his stomach, Wallace said in satisfactory, "Nothing but a nice sandwich with turkey ham, and radish, under the warm sun." He turned towards the sky as he went on, "I would pay with all I have if I could enjoy this with the two of you every single day…. Sitting here… with Mother Nature surrounding us, and the soft breeze rustling our hair."

Juri said matter-of-factly, "That's too bad, because I'm a waitress who needs to help my father, and the two of you boys are soldiers who needs to protect Gaea when the time comes."

"That's true." Wallace nodded with his eyes closed. He then opened it and faces Juri, "But it wouldn't hurt to dream a little dream. Am I right?"

"Yes… it wouldn't hurt."

Juri held her knees close to her face as she pictured about Wallace's fantasized story. She would have gone on that way if Takato hadn't interrupted her train of thought, "Juri? What are those?"

Juri looks at the direction that Takato had indicated. It was the jug of water she had mixed. She pours them into one of the glass and passes it to Takato. The boy looks at it curiously but eventually, he shrugs and took a gulped of it. The liquid that flowed into him felt so nice as he exclaimed, "Juri, this is good! But you still haven't tell me what it was."

Juri smiled and answer the brown hair boy, "I made this drink myself. I haven't even thought of naming it yet. But this drink contains grinded herbs and some berries that we planted in our backyard."

The girl fills another glass and gave that one to Wallace. The cyan-eyed boy took a sip and smiled at the sweet tastes. He also realized that somehow the drink had refreshed him. He told the girl, "Takato is right. This is really good. I think you should add this into your father's teahouse's drink menu. It would be a perfect drink among those who come to the teahouse."

"I'll think about that," Juri said as she drank her own glass of drink.

Wallace put away the glass and walked out the area that has been covered by the cloth. He then lies down on the dune that had soft grass grown all over it. He smells the scent of the flower at is side as he looks up into the blue sky. The puffy white cloud floated away slowly. Everything is perfect for him. Ever since he was three, he had grown quite attached to flowers and the wonders of nature. Of course, he himself has no idea why.

As Wallace kept staring into the sky, Takato and Juri soon joined him. However, he didn't take notice to them. He didn't even know when they have joined him. When he realizes it, they were already there. He then asked them, "Beautiful isn't it? The sky… so far away… yet, it felt so near. Sometimes I wonder what is beyond it."

"Something that we wouldn't know, I guess," Takato answered.

Then they were silent again. Watching the serene blue. And by looking at it, Wallace felt like he was back home once again. In the beautiful house, that was built next to the sea. He's in his room, gazing across the ocean. He remembered how the colour of the sky reflected the sea perfectly. At this moment, it makes him wonders how his family is doing. It has been two years already since his absent. But he did keep in touch with them via letters and telephone calls. Though it wasn't enough.

Wallace trains of thought were broken when Takato suddenly got up. He looked at his friend and gave a questioning look. Takato, noticing Wallace's gesture, said to the two on the ground, "I think I'll walk around in the forest for awhile. At the same time, I'll go and fill in the flask again."

Juri advises the brown hair boy, "Well, be back quickly. I think we should be heading home soon." She added another words of cautious, "You be careful and watch where you going, okay?"

"Daijoubu, daijoubu!"

With that, Takato is off running towards the dense trees with the blue flask in hand. Wallace shakes his head at his friend's childish behavior. He thought to himself, 'The training here sure made a lot of improvements in Takato and myself. But something just won't change. I guess that's why they say old habits are hard to die.'

Wallace and Juri, having nothing else to do, decided to satisfy themselves with a few more sandwiches. They returned to the prepared area and sat back down. Wallace helps himself with two more serving as Juri drinks her herbal drink. Then Juri decided to raid Takato's backpack to see what he has.

It was not long when a very familiar scream sounded from the forest and at the same moment, the birds flew away in fear. Having a keen hearing, Wallace turned his head towards the direction of the scream. He was very sure that it was Takato. In accord to that, he got up immediately and broke into a run. As he did so, he shouted loud enough for Juri to hear, "Stay where you are, Juri! Don't move or go anywhere until I got back!"

Juri nodded, dumbfounded. She was not sure of what had happened. But she is smart enough to know that something bad had happened to the person she loves and cares for. She prayed silently and hoped that it is only something minor.

Wallace heart is thumping very hard as he ran. It sounded like thunder every time. He knows that Takato is a not bad fighter. He could take care of himself just fine. But who could have made him screamed that way… he had no idea.

Wallace continues to run deeper towards the direction of the stream first. That is the most likely place to look for Takato. And judging by the volume of the scream, it seems like it was echoed from the exact same place. He just hoped that he was right. But when he reached there, though his speculation was correct, a very unlikely sight greeted him.

Takato is on the ground, unconscious. Nothing is wrong with him. But if one takes a look at the spherical creature, which has one eyes, and that it is hovering above the fainted boy with two tentacles look-alike thing that has been inserted into each of the boy's ear canal, one would have obviously screamed in terror.

Wallace, in panic, looked around until his sight falls on a fairly thick branch. He lifted it out and ran towards the creature. One swing, and an ear piercing screech sounded through the area. Wallace had no choice but to drop the branch and covers both his ears. As he did that, the creature removed the tentacles from his victim and floated away in a fast pace.

The cyan-eyed boy, noticing this, hurries and gave chase. Though the creature was fast, Wallace is not slow either. He ran across the stream and blocks away snapping branches as he pursues the creature. Soon, he reached a very high cliff. The creature is nowhere in sight, only a cave is visible.

There is no doubt that the creature had escaped into the cave. But Wallace is surprised that this place hasn't been discovered yet. But his intention wasn't going in. Though he wanted to get in and get rid of it, he realizes that his friend's safety is more important. So he sidetracks back to where Takato is. When he reached there, the brown hair boy is still unconscious on the ground. Wallace knelt down at his friend's side and examines him. There are no injuries or whatsoever, but there is blood trailing down his face from the ear.

Wallace clenched his fist in anger and decided to bring his friend back to the infirmary…  and fast….

*******

Wallace was sat on a bench just outside the emergency room with a very worried brown hair girl at his side. Wallace's fist was ball up and shook in a very dangerous way. His eyes reflected that of a feral animal. He was angry… very angry. He's angry at Takato for going into the forest alone, angry at the creature for hurting his friend, and also angry with himself for letting Takato go. Juri herself, was the complete opposite. She felt no anger, except that her whole body is trembling in fear… fear for her friend.

When the doctor, came out from the room, Wallace stood up immediately and asked a barrage of questions before the doctor could even informed him on his friend's condition. "Doctor, how is he? How is Takato? I mean, is he all right?"

The doctor raises his hand to calm the boy down and told the two, "Your friend… he's perfectly fine." Wallace gave a sigh of relief as the doctor continues, "But… this is yet another case that has been going on in the academy. Your friend is in a coma state."

Juri could feel the pang in her heart. Wallace face changed into that of a scared boy. The doctor then brought them to where Takato was rested. They walked along corridors that have countless doors and finally stopped in front of one of them. The doctor opened the door and both Wallace and Juri walk into a small room. There was only one bed, and on it was Takato.

The brown hair boy was as if he was fast asleep. But Wallace knew, that his life might expire at anytime. He knows of this through reading. People tend to waste out their life when they fell into a coma. Juri sat on a stool next to the bed and held Takato's hand. The doctor decided to leave them alone and closes the door; there was nothing he could do.

Wallace took a stool and sat down on the other side, gazing at his friend's contented face. Juri is already weeping silently on the bed, muffling it. Wallace had no idea what to do to help his friend. He hoped that the boy would just wake up suddenly. But Wallace knew it wouldn't happen. Many who had fell into this state, had been unconscious since they were… whatever the creature had done to them. What are the chances of this one different than the rest?

But Wallace knew one thing for sure. That is, to get rid of the creature who did this. He stood up suddenly and the stool clatters to the floor. Juri looked at him with puffy red eyes. One look and she knew that Wallace is up to something dangerous. She asked him in a shaky tone,  "Wallace, what are you planning?

The cyan-eyed boy looked at his friend and back to Takato. He answered in a very deadly tone, "Isn't it obvious, Juri? I know where the creature is. I'm going back to kill it"

With that said, Wallace retreated towards the door. Juri tried to stop him, but instead… she stopped herself first. She knew it would be pointless to talk or even reason with the Wallace now. The boy's eyes are filled with the look of revenge. Probably the general himself, who is his superior and also a very close friend to Wallace, couldn't stop the blond hair boy from doing what he has in mind…

*******

Wallace is back, standing outside the mouth of the cave. A deadly, steel-headed spear is at his hand. It was his choice of weapon…. The weapon that was gripped firmly, glittered dangerously under the ray of the sun. His cyan eyes burned with anger and the thirst for revenge. If he is angry when he's at the infirmary, then he's furious now that he's this close to the creature. What the creature had done was unforgivable. No matter what the reason is.

Wallace took when step closer to the cave and from there, he trudges on with only anger… and no fear. Perhaps, the only fear he felt is probably that Takato won't regain consciousness. He wonders what type of life he'll go through without Takato.

As he continues down the long dark tunneling, Wallace thought about the purpose of him acting so hastily. It was probably because of his friend that he did what he's doing now. It was partly revenge, and the other part is the hope that his friend will recover when the cause of everything is dead. He said to no one, 'Though it's very unlikely, but it happened all the time in story books.'

Then his sister's warning from two years ago started to kick in like a sledgehammer. The 'eye' she was referring to was obviously that one-eyed spherical creature. It was the one who haunt even in sleep. And her sisters also mention about him facing it or something like that. But his memory is quite blurry at the moment. So he left it aside and concentrates on what he's about to face.

The surrounding was dark. And at time passes, Wallace felt like someone… or maybe something, has been watching him. He wasn't sure what it was but he knew that there is someone else other than him. He knew it because of the training he's been through. He had been a stalker and the stalked before. He knows what one will feel when someone is scrutinizing.

But every time he pauses to check whether there really was someone, the uneasy feeling vanished as quickly as it has appeared. Finalizing that is was only his mind playing tricks on him, Wallace continues down without giving any attention to the uneasy feeling. But in any case, he didn't drop his guard even a bit. That is always the first priority in his survival's rules.

Not long later, a faint light shimmered in the distance. Noticing it, Wallace quickens his pace; a jog at first, then he broke into a full out run. Minutes later, he was out in a… meadow? The place is beautiful beyond his expectation. Though tall cliffs surrounded the place, the numbers of flowers that grow here and the clear blue sky above was indeed a sight. There was also a huge oak tree at the very center.

However, Wallace's eyes narrowed when his gaze fell on the oak tree. The reason is, at the base of it, there was a black void, possibly a portal. And from there, a few of those spherical creatures are disappearing and appearing from them. Wallace was not sure what they are doing and the number of the creature surprised him a little. They appear from the portal, circled around the tree a few times, and vanished back in.

To Wallace, whatever that they have intended to do was none of his business. The only thing in his mind now is a crying girl at the side of a bed and the boy that have been lying on the bed. His gripped on the weapon tighten and before he himself could realize it, Wallace is already charging with both of his hand holding the spear at ready.

The weapon pierced the nearest spherical creature. This time, it didn't release an ear-piercing screech because it was dead before it even could. Wallace readied his weapon once again and thrust at another who's at his left. Now that he had brought attentions, twenty or so spherical creatures rushes out the portal and swarmed at him.

Wallace swung the spear at any who tried to get close to him. A few more 'unfortunate' ones died and dissolved just like the others. But their number was a great addition to those creatures. They easily flocked together and overcome Wallace. Moments later, the cyan-eyed boy is on the ground, struggling to get those creatures off him. It felt like a thousand ants was on his body.

But suddenly, one lucky creature got his tentacle thing into Wallace's ear canal. It wasn't gentle as it went in. Instead it was forceful and painful for the boy, though he didn't scream it out. He tried to pull the tentacles away, but the other creatures seize at his arms and legs, binding him and also knocking his weapon away. He struggled painfully at their grip.

But his whole body went limp all of a sudden. There were images, and old memories of his, surging at him. Before he knew what is happening, they are already disappearing from him. His mind is blank all of a sudden. And as black haze appears at the edge of his sight, he screamed in his mind desperately, 'I can't fall! Takato, Juri, they needed me! I just… can't…'

And then, darkness envelops him…

*******

Wallace eyes snapped open. He could only see darkness and faint stars glittered in the distance. In an instant, he is up and standing. His hand tried to reach for the weapon he had dropped. But there was nothing at the place he's in now. He wondered if this is where all the people who had fell prey to those creatures go to. But he was proven wrong when a bright flash of light exploded around him. Wallace shut his eyes to avoid the sudden flashed.

And as he's trying to adjust his sight, a child-like voice asks him, "Beautiful. Isn't it?"

Wallace, who still has cloudy sight, tried to focus on the person who had talked to him. But to no avail, his sight still hasn't recover. The owner of the child-like voice laughed and floated, yes… floated, towards him. As the person waved his or her palm over his face, his sight is back to normal. And what he saw causes him to yelp and fell on his backside.

It was no human. The owner of the child-like voice is a… fairy. It, or rather she, was barefooted and has two pairs of wings that looked a lot like leaves. The dress she wore, that reaches down to her knees, was decorated with flowers. Her pale skin reflected the opposite of her clear black eyes. Her green hair, that flowed over her back, glitters like emerald.

The fairy smiled at the boy's reaction and knelt down in front of him. Though she was at the same height as the boy, her childish voice was filled with wisdom as she spoke. "Hi! My name is Yousei! What's yours?"

The boy blinked as he replied, "Wal- Wallace."

"Wallace huh? Nice to meet you."

She offered her hand and Wallace shook it vigorously. After that, he asked the only question that is in his mind as of now, "Excuse me for asking, but could you tell me where am I? Or why am I here?"

The fairy smiled again as she answered the boy, "This is the plane which I had created with my power as one of the Holy Guardian." Wallace's eyes grew as large as soccer ball as Yousei continues, " And you're here, because you called for me."

"I did?"

The fairy spread her wings and flew around as she told the boy, "Well, not exactly. But your desperate wish to save your friend have reached me, who has been seal in the meadow you're in just now. With that strong will, I was able to pull your conscious into this alternate dimension."

With that answered, Wallace then asked, "But, why is a Holy Guardian that is so powerful have called me here? Is there some reason to it?"

"My, my. Clueless aren't you?" Yousei landed and went on in a more serious tone, "I think you know of the war a thousand years ago, during the Age of Darkness? Where King Seferius defeated the Evil and stuff like that." Wallace nodded. He knew everything about the Age of Darkness and the Holy Guardians through some record books in his father's studies. "Well, the history that has been pass on was merely made up. King Seferius didn't actually defeat him. He just sealed it away, with the help of the seven of us, the Holy Guardians."

Wallace was surprised at this. But Yousei continues with her talk without letting Wallace to ask a question first, "As time went by, the seal had been weakened by some outer forces. I think the councils of Gaea had notices it. That's why they set up academy at a few countries." Wallace realizes that this fairy knew a lot of stuff that is going on in the current world. "But, the Evil has been released now. Though still weak, the evil aura that he emitted could reach us guardians. So, I've been waiting here for someone to stumble by, so that I could bond with whoever it was and stopped the Evil. And what a coincidence that you came here when minions of the Evil has been sent to destroy me."

Wallace asked, "Those spherical creatures are minions of the Evil? What are they doing anyway? I mean, people have been falling into a coma all of a sudden."

Yousei answered the boy; "They are actually trying to steal collective memories of human and also their conscious. They then changed them into something that could possibly destroy me. But now, with you here, it will not happen." Yousei asked the boy, " I'm sure that you would want to get rid of them, don't you? So that you could save those who had lost conscious."

"I do… but I was too weak… and powerless…" Wallace had his head lowered.

Yousei sighed and said, mostly to herself, "At first, I've never thought of trying to bond with someone, but then… I guess it was unavoidable. And you're the type of person I liked anyway." Yousei then asked, "What do you say if you were to bond with me?"

"Bond? What does it do?"

Yousei smiled again. "You'll be stronger than you are now. A lot. Meaning, you'll become a Holy Warrior. But the only thing is… if you want to bond with me, you must help me to destroy the Evil together with the rest of the guardians. Of course, you must look for the other guardians first. What do you say?"

Wallace thought about it. If he were to accept, he could destroys those creatures and also save Takato's life and others as well. He could then go on a journey that will be thrilling. But that would also means that he must leave the academy. And if he disagrees with the fairy's offer, the whole world would be at stake with one of the Holy Guardians gone. It would be even worse if he were to fall prey to those creatures as well.

Seeing that he has no other options, and accepting the Holy Guardian's offer is the most likely answer, Wallace agrees with just a nod and a smile. Yousei clasped her hands together and squealed in delight. She told the boy, "You've just made me the most happy fairy in the world. The thought of getting out of here and seeing the world again made me really want to kiss you!" Wallace blushes at that comment. "Anyway, let's begin the first step of bonding."

The fairy then closes her eyes, places both her hand close to her chest, and concentrated deeply. There was nothing at first, but when she spread her wings, it was shimmering in green, the same colour as her wings. She floated up and as she did so, she left trails of sparkling dusts. Her whole body seems to glow an emerald green right then. Her dress is swaying softly at the invisible wind.

When she spread her arms wide open, a rose materialize in thin air, right before Wallace very eyes. Slowly, as if being given a command, the red flower bended and twisted. It grew larger and longer till it was longer than the fairy herself. The petals withered and the top part formed into three very sharp points. Within minutes, in the rose place, is a excellently forged trident that had a socket at the part just below the middle point of the weapon.

Yousei held out one hand, and from it, a green colour orb materializes. The orb moved by itself and went into the empty space of the trident. When it was done, Yousei landed on her feet again and panted a little. It seems that this has taken a lot of her strength. However, she did manage to tell the boy, "This trident is called 'Otougibanashi'. But personally, I prefer it being called, 'Kadaan'."

Wallace reaches out for the weapon. But the three-pronged spear came to him instead, as if acknowledging Wallace's intention. For a second, the cyan-eyed boy hesitated to touch it. But eventually, after shrugging, he gripped at the weapon's handle. A very warm and strange flowed through him at that moment. And all of a sudden, he realizes that he knew how to wield this weapon just as easily as he eats. Other than that, he also felt that he's stronger than before. He doesn't know how… he just… knew.

"You could actually keep it out of sight with a few command, which I'm sure you know of it already as soon as you had touched it." Wallace nodded. Yousei then stated, "Then go ahead and try it!"

Wallace did as he was told. He gave a simple mental command and the weapon emitted a green light. Wallace could feel it shrink in a very fast pace. In seconds, it has become a miniature version of it. Wallace immediately thought of it as an excellent amulet that could be fastened on a necklace.

Feeling satisfied, Wallace said to Yousei, "Okay, I'm ready for payback time! Those creatures are going to be dead this time!"

Yousei laughed but said nothing. When she clapped her hands twice, the area around faded. The stars in the distance died out like candles. Everything is falling apart. Even the fairy's feature shimmered and started to disappear. Wallace tried to ask where she was going, but he was not able to, because he started to fall right then. Falling, into the endless pit…

*******

The creature that surrounded Wallace was blasted back when a bright green light surrounded Wallace's motionless body. As the light started to dim, Wallace's eyes fluttered and opened slowly. He immediately realized that he's back in the meadow where the creatures are. 'Was everything just now, the talk with Yousei… is everything a dream?' he thought mentally.

But then, he noticed that there is something in his clenched fist. As he unclenched it, he notices that the miniature version of Kadaan is there. Smiling, Wallace swung his arm with the amulet sideway, and with that the weapon becomes it full length. The orb that was in the weapon, glittered and Wallace realizes that there is a word 'Shizen', written in ancient rune language, which glowed from inside the orb.

Taking Wallace's diverted attention as an opportunity to strike again, every single of those spherical creatures swarmed at him. But they didn't realize that the boy had a few tricks on his sleeves. Wallace wrote a few lines of words in runes with an amazing speed. The words glowed a soft green as it was finished. The boy then raises his weapon over his head, with the tip pointing towards the sky.

As the creature came near, Wallace shouted, "BISHIOUSU BINE!"

Wallace reversed his grip on the weapon and at the same time, he turned it. So that it had it's tip aimed at the ground. The green orb in the weapon, which is actually a Holy Stone, glowed a brilliant green. Wallace plunged the three points of the trident into the ground.

Weeds and vines with thorns grow at a rapid pace, centering at the place where Wallace is standing. They crept on the ground, surrounding about two meters from the boy. And at Wallace's command, those plants elongated and strike upwards. The sharp as steel weeds stabbed and gutted those one-eyed creatures. Not one escapes his trap… and not one got less than three holes on their round body.

Their ear-piercing screech was heard once again. And in unison this time, it could have broken a normal human's eardrum. But Wallace, who is protected by the Holy Guardian's power, was unfazed by it. He stood there as if someone had just whispered to him only.

Though hurt badly, those creatures doesn't seem to be dead yet. Wallace eyes narrowed again and mouthed a few soundless commands. The weeds and vines wrapped around their victim and started to squeeze them with a great force. Their thorns are poking into them. After a few more seconds, sounds of bursting from the crushed creatures were heard. They exploded into small particles and vanished as they fell to the ground. And along with them, the vines disappeared also, withering away.

When nothing is left, Wallace stood there, with the trident still stabbed on the ground. Though none of the creatures are visible except for the dark portal, Wallace still has this ominous feeling. It was like a cold beat of sweat running down his spine. It was the exact same feeling that he felt when he was being spied, back in the dark tunnel. Other than that, the evil aura that had enveloped the place hasn't disappears yet.

Wallace knew the battle isn't over yet…

And he was right when a blood chilling laughed sounded and echoed around the place. Wallace, alerted, quickly searched left and right for the source of it. His eyes were then concentrated and trained on the dark portal where those spherical creatures had appeared. With each passing second, the presence of darkness felt stronger than before. Wallace couldn't help it but sweated with nervousness and anxiety.

Yousei, who is in another plane, also felt the growing threat. She felt a pang in her heart as she remembered the first encounter she had with this aura. It's was the same one from a thousand years ago. Only, it is weaker. She warned the boy through telepathy, "Wallace, be careful and stay alert. Whatever is coming… it's… it is fill with the power of darkness."

She thought to her self silently, angrily, 'If only I was not weaken by summoning the Holy Stone, I could have called Wallace to summon me to his world and make short work with that thing! Damn those minions of darkness for draining my power!'

Wallace awaited whoever or whatever it was to reveal itself before doing something irrational. He feared that it would be something powerful. Even Yousei was nervous when he heard her warning. Wallace tightens his grips on Kadaan and got on an offensive stance. His eyes never left the swirling black cloud in front of him.

Then, a hand appeared from the portal. Wallace was taken aback by the sudden appearance. The 'person' clenched his or her fist and slowly pulled itself out. It seems like the 'person' took a lot of effort to appear from the dimensional portal. But eventually, the 'person' head emerged. The 'person', who is a he, has long hair that is tied into a ponytail, as black as charcoal. Moments later, his whole frame is out of the dark portal.

His eyes were black as his hair, dark, and emotionless. The figure wore a protective armor that had a black long-sleeved shirt underneath. A pair of gauntlet protected his hands. Both of them look the same, but one of them had a bulge on its side. He wore matching black pants and a loincloth was around his waist. He has on ankle-high boots.

The figure chuckled and said in a very disturbing tone, "I've never thought that a newly bonded guardian would be this powerful. Not yet anyway. But you really surprised me, defeating my entire group of Gankyuu."

"Who are you? And what are exactly are you talking about?"

The figure chuckled again and said, "Oh, pardon me. My name is Yuurei Obaake." Yuurei black eyes showed a dangerous glint as he looked straight into Wallace's cyan one. "In other name, I'm called the Master of Phantasm, one of the Dark Warriors of Shi-ou – sama!"

Yuurei raised his hand that has a gauntlet with a bulge on it. Only then did Wallace notices the grayish orb, which have been placed in it. The inside of the orb glowed a word 'Obaake' in runes. Then, from Yuurei, around twenty or so of his mirrors appeared and surrounded Wallace. The cyan-eyed boy cringed his eyes left and right as the mirrors started to walk around him.

Wallace doesn't know whether all of them are real or only one of them is the original body. In either case, he would still use his 'Bishiousu Bine' spell again. The vines appeared once again and crept across the place. But when the plants strike upwards, all the figures all leaping into the air. The only thing is, they all did it in a different timing. Not in unison. This could only means that they are all of different person.

Wallace shuddered at the fact. But he didn't let the fear hinders his determination to win. He followed suits and leapt into the air towards one of them. Since there are so many of them, it doesn't matter which one he chooses. He positioned his three-pronged spear properly and shouted,  "YOUSOU SHUUGEKI!"

The three points of the trident glowed a bright orange as it descended upon its target. When it connected with one of the Yuurei figure, a small explosion ensued. That figure was blasted towards another Yuurei. The two of them impacted and fell to the ground with great force, throwing up a lot of dust.

Wallace had a triumphant look on his face.

But then, before the dust even cleared, shards of broken mirror rushed at him with amazing speed. Wallace then saw his mistakes. He realizes that those figures created are only illusions, but with the Dark Warrior's power, it was able to move as if it was another different person. But it was too late now, pieces of the shards stabbed at his legs, body, and hands. Miraculously, his head was unharmed. But in any case, he was wounded enough.

All of a sudden, one of the figures was above Wallace and kicked him on his stomach. Another appeared at his side and landed his fist on the boy's chest, throwing the air out of him and breaking a few bones along with it. A third one elbowed his back. Then, the fourth one appeared. He's probably the real one because this one smiled. He raised both his clenched fist and landed a strong punch on Wallace's head.

The cyan-eyed boy plummeted to the ground.

His hands shook as he tried to right himself. But then, he started to cough and blood came out, smearing the white flower beneath him, red. Yuurei's continuous siege had really wounded him a sufficient amount. However, even as he is knelt there in agony, Yuurei didn't stop.

His copies disappeared and the real Yuurei landed next to the injured boy. He uses the tip of his boots and landed a swift kick at the boy's stomach, causing Wallace to land on his own stomach and coughing out more blood. Yuurei snickered at the condition of the boy below his feet. "It looks like I look to highly upon you. I guess I should finish you off. Any threat towards my master is unacceptable."

Yuurei stepped back a considerable distance and raised his hand once again. The orb glowed and the ground beneath him opened up. But he never fell into the large hole that has been created. Instead, something large appeared and Yuurei was raised high into the air along with it.

Wallace opened his eyes a little and notices that the new thirty feet tall creature that has appeared had a pair of arms that is even longer than it's legs. Two pairs of small bat-like wings were on his back. A long muscular tailed was drag along the ground. Its whole body was filled with scales. But the most ugly part was its face. It had two pairs of blood-red eyes and a large mouth with rows and rows of sharp teeth in it. Its long tongue hung outside the mouth and saliva dripped and oozed on the meadow. The uncountable horns on his head could have easily mowed the cliff that surrounds them easily.

Wallace strained his ear to hear what Yuurei says, "To honor the death of one of the Holy Warriors. I've use one of my favorite pets to play with you. Hope you enjoy it."

Yuurei laughed… a wicked laugh…

The creature advances towards Wallace. Yousei, shouted to the boy who is still laid on the ground. "Get up, Wallace! You can't die like this! Your friends still need you! Are you already giving up on them?"

When Wallace heard the phrase 'giving up on them', he tried his best to stand up. But before he could even stand on his feet, he fell back to the ground because of the pain on his chest and stomach. He tried a few times more but the end results are always the same.

Yousei panicked as the creature came closer than ever. She thought to herself, 'Please Wallace, you need to get out of here alive! The other guardians and Holy Warriors needed you! It can't end like this!' She sighed in regret. 'If only if Wallace has more time with his new powers! That way, he would be bonded completely with me and unleash the true power of the Holy Warrior!'

The creature, which had stopped walking, grabbed the boy up with his huge palm. It held the cyan-eyed boy at the same level of his master and Yuurei took a good look at the boy's pathetic state. But Wallace's eyes still showed anger and hate at the Master of Phantasm. Yuurei raised an eyebrow at it and said to his 'pet', "Weynaer, torture the boy till he shows the sign of despair."

The creature nodded and proceeded to squeeze the boy as his master had ordered. Wallace bit his lower lip and shut his eyes as the grip tighten. He finally knows how it felt when a tremendous force is squishing a human. However, to not show his pain, he stopped himself from screaming it out. But the creature's sharp claw that grazes at his skin and poked into his flesh doesn't help the matter a single bit.

With each passing seconds, the pain grew and Wallace could feel that his bones are about to break and shatter. Though he didn't show it, Yuurei was satisfied with the look on the boy's face. A trail of blood had just appeared from the corner of his lip.

Just when Yuurei was about to give the final command, the creature's arm was severed from its body. The huge arm fell to the ground and Waynaer trashed wildly, screaming in pain. Yuurei was thrown off balance and fell from the creature's back. He landed a few meters from where the still screaming creature is. Wallace was freed after the creature arm was cut. But he was still unable to move.

The creature, in anger, glared at Wallace's unmoving frame and raised its remaining hand to finish the job it had started. But before he could even bring its hand down, a female voice shouted in ancient language of runes, "TORUNADO!"

The wind around the area became more visible in the colour of green. It started to swirl around the huge creature as Yuurei looked at the situation in surprise. The slow moving wind became more violent and dangerous. The creature's arm, twisted to that of an odd angle because of the unstable air current. From, there, the swirling green wind that extended even to the sky, covered the figure.

When the storm died down, Waynaer could no longer be seen. Yuurei was surprise to see that the creature is gone. But then, a large shadow illuminated him. He knew what it was before he even looked up. Immediately, using his dark powers, he opened a portal and jumped in just seconds before the twisted body of Waynaer crashed to the ground. The dead creature started to disappear as its body melted away.

Wallace, who still hasn't lose conscious, tried to look for his savior. He wanted to thank the person, whoever it was, before he falls unconscious. Yousei was also surprised at the sudden change of luck. She wondered who would have eliminated such a powerful creature so easily. But she was answered when a very familiar voice spoke to her from her back, "It's been a long time, Yousei."

The fairy turned around and saw a four-legged creature with a pair of wings, staring back at her. The front two legs were that of an eagle and the other two was that of a lion. His brown fur shimmered even without the presence of the sun. Its long tail swished as he moves to greet her. Yousei recognizes him. She knew whom those piercing black eyes and soft voice belongs to. It was her friend that she hasn't seen for years, the Holy Guardian of Wind, Taihu.

"Taihu!" Yousei exclaimed in surprise. But at the same time, the griffin notices the gladness and happiness in her voice.

Taihu said to her, "How have you been doing, my friend? It looks like you and I have chosen our master for this generation."

"Yes, it seems that we have. But with the Evil revived, we don't have any other choice do we?" The fairy smiled and went on, "In any case, I wouldn't miss the great opportunity to go for a journey on the new landscapes of Gaea." She then asked, "How come you were here anyway?"

The griffin answered, "It was the closest. And besides, wasn't it a good thing that I reached with my young friend earlier? But, who would have thought that one of the Dark warriors have appeared and take on a Holy Warrior? And the fact that you've just been bonded with him, it's even worse."

"True." Yousei nodded. "If you weren't here, I would have died along with my new master." Yousei asked, "By the way, how long have you been bonded with your master? It seems like he is very powerful."

Taihu coughed and answered, "My new master is actually a 'she'. And we've been bonded for the past two weeks. Enough time for me to get her use to her new powers."

Wallace, who didn't hear any part of the conversation between the two Holy Guardians that is going on in another dimension, was about to fall unconscious. It was then that he notices that there was a girl who was floating a moment ago, landed. The girl ran forward and tried to see how bad Wallace was injured when the cyan-eyed boy finally closes his eyes because of exhaustion.

*******

The first thing that Wallace saw when he first came to, are the worried brown eyes of his best friend, Takato Matsuda. The brown hair boy hugs him madly when Wallace had his eyes opened. Takato sniff into the boy's white hospital clothe, "Wallace! I'm so glad you're okay! That's so stupid of you to go running ff like that!"

Wallace rubbed the other boy's back to comfort him. He then asked out of curiosity, "Takato, when did you wake up from your coma?"

A female voice answered him. It was Juri's. "It was a few hours after you have gone to kill the creature you had said. All the other patients, who were in the same condition as Takato, had also awoken at about the same time. I guess you defeated them at that time, isn't it?"

Wallace just shrugs as best he could with his injured body. Takato then told him, "I was really worried when Juri told me of what you did. And look what you got yourself into! A few broken rib bones and a few scars! Am I that important to you?" The brown hair boy went on, "If it weren't for this kind lady who brought you in, you would be dead already!"

Wallace was taken aback by Takato's word. After a few thoughts, Wallace answered the boy, "Takato, you are more than a friend to me. You're… you're… I don't know what. But I would do anything just to keep you safe. Things like brothers always do. That's why, you're really important to me."

Takato was left speechless. He hugs his friend one more time and cried on his shoulder. Wallace shook his head and smiled. He knew Takato had always been a very emotional person. That is why he cries easily. Juri felt the need to stay quiet and let the two enjoy the friendly moment.

When Takato stopped, Wallace asked the two present in the room, "Who and where is this girl that you speak off? Is she still here?"

Juri nodded, "Yes. She is outside, having a few words with the doct-"

Just then, the door opened and a girl with short brown hair walks in. A wing shape clip was fastened on her bangs that tend to cover her face. Her silky pink dress matches her fair skin perfectly. As she closed the door and walked further into the room, her crimson brown eyes could be seen, reflecting the owner's kindness. She smiled and offered her hand. Wallace took it and the girl introduces herself, "Hi, my name is Yagami Hikari. You must be Wallace that Yousei had told Taihu about."

Wallace was shocked. He asks the girl, "You're also one of the Holy Warriors?"

Hikari just smiled and nodded. Takato and Juri, who knew nothing of what they were talking about, have a very confuse look on their face. Wallace notices it and fills them in with what he has been through. Hikari also add in tiny bits of information that Yousei haven't told Wallace about.

When they finished their little tale, both Juri and Takato had their mouth wide opened. The brown hair boy said in disbelief, "You two, a Holy Warrior? Like King Seferius?" The two nodded and Takato eyes twinkled. "Oh my! To think that I'm the friend of one of the warrior! I would be famous and everything!"

Wallace could feel sweat running down his face. He told the boy who had a wishful look. God knows what the boy's thinking. "Umm… Takato, I think you overreacted. Even though I'm a Holy Warrior, you will not get to be famous because I've never thought of exposing myself, as of yet. And also," Wallace looked at Hikari. "I'm sure that we would soon depart on a journey."

"A journey?" Juri asked.

Hikari explained what their mission is. "We are to look for the other five Holy Warriors who are scattered across the world. After that, the real battle will soon begin."

Juri asked in astonishment, "Around the world? Wouldn't that be difficult?"

The crimson brown hair girl answered, "Well, not exactly. For one, Taihu and I figure out that they would be close to where the guardians were sealed. Moreover, if we are close to one, our guardians can feel the presence of the other that is nearby." She added a few more words, "That's how I found Wallace. If it weren't for Taihu, I would have passed through the hidden meadow that Wallace's at."

Takato said sadly, "I guess, it would be a long time before I'll be able to see Wallace again."

Wallace tried to assure his best friend that everything will end quickly, but Juri had asked another question, "But… how is Wallace going to embarks on a journey? He's a recruit of the academy. It would be hard for him to resign at this moment."

Wallace blinked as he replied, "Don't worry, Juri. You've forgotten that General Deloras and I are acquaintances. I could ask him about it first."

Hikari, who felt out of place, didn't say a word. However, not noticing it, Wallace continues, "I think that settles all the problems. The only thing that I should worry about is; how long will it takes for me to heal completely?"

*******

Two weeks later…

The moon is still high up in the sky though the sun has already begun to rise over the horizon. Pinkish white, fluffy clouds hovered and floated across the blue sky. Birds have already begun to chirp and flew from the nest. Nocturnal birds however, returned to their home to spend the rest of their day, sleeping. A few citizens of the academy had already waked up to do some early exercise, though it was a weekend.

But there are exceptions for a few…

At the gate of the academy, stood five figures, four who is in their teen and one adult. The boy with cyan eyes, who had recovered from his injuries, shifted his backpack and turns toward his three friends, General Deloras and Juri, who he had met when he came to the academy, and also Takato, his friend since the day he started to behave mischievously. He felt his heavy heart unwilling to leave the three of them. But, this is something inevitable. He had promised Yousei that he would do as he had promised. But that doesn't means that he couldn't feel bad about it.

Hikari, who is not part of their circle, stood apart from them. Like the day she had departed, she has no bags or whatsoever except the satchel that she uses to store her gold. But the satchel was a bit heavier than before because the kind general had provided the source of money for the two of them. She had thanked him countless time when she received it.

General Deloras saluted Wallace as the boy did the same. The man told him, "I'll keep your place empty until you return back here." The general smiled and lowered his hand. "In the mean time, I'll think of a way to get your parents off your back. Though I already have the feeling that it would be a disastrous situation, knowing your mother."

Wallace just laughed as Juri said her farewell, "Well, you just take care and don't do restless things like before. Don't you get yourself into trouble, but more importantly, make sure that problems doesn't find its way to Miss Hikari. Or I'll personally hunt you down for causing too much problem."

Even though Hikari had just met with Juri a few weeks ago, a strong friendship has already developed between the two girls. Hikari shifted her hands to her back and smiled as she heard Juri's word. Then the two are off to one side to say their own farewell. Wallace and Takato waited for the two to be some distance away before Takato broke into another crying feat.

Wallace embraces his best friend and patted comfortingly on his back, trying his best to calm the brown hair boy down. General Deloras, sensing that the boys need their own private moment, decided to said a final farewell to Wallace before he too was off, back to his office.

"How I wish I could follow you," Takato said regretfully.

Wallace shook his head and faced his best friend, "You know you can't Takato. If you followed, Juri would be left all alone here. You wouldn't want that do you?" The brown hair boy shook his head vigorously. Wallace smiled and continues, "Beside, I would be back as soon as this finish."

Takato attempt his back to be in a sarcastic tone, "Yeah, I would be a married man with a big family and lots of children already by then."

Wallace laughed and said, "I don't think it will take that long. At most, I think it would take-"

Yousei interrupted right then. That surprises Wallace a bit since he had forgotten that Yousei was able to hear him and talk to him at any moment. "I think it will only take a year to three at most. It wouldn't be too long unless a full-fledged war broke out." Wallace heard the fairy laugh as she told him, "So, tell your cute best friend to cheer up. A boy like him shouldn't cry in front of a female."

Wallace relates everything he heard from Yousei to Takato. Thankfully, that cheered the boy up a little. But at that moment, Hikari and Juri had finished the last bit of their conversation and are already on their way to meet back with the boys. So, Wallace told Takato, "I think it is time for me to go. I'll keep you in touch whenever I can through telephones of the town we stop by. So… good luck with your training! Don't let those Sergeants bug you again!"

"Don't you worry about that one bit, Wallace," Takato's eyes have a very mischievous looks in them. "The next time they start another 'keep me busy' session, I'll have something nice for them in return."

Wallace pulled back a little and let the sweat flow down. He told the boy, "Just don't get yourself kicks out of the academy before I return."

Hikari walks behind the two and asked the cyan-eyed boy, "Are you ready to go, Wallace?"

"Yeah."

"Okay, then. We'll head to Castle City, Barole from here, as Taihu and Yousei had agreed."

Hikari righted the saddle of a horse with golden mane and climbs up the magnificent creature. Wallace did the same and mounted his, a black one. Other than gold, General Deloras had also given the each of them a horse for convenience purposes. Hikari and Wallace faced their friends one more time before they pull on the rein and galloped away.

Juri and Takato stood there, hand in hand, waving till the last of their friend has disappeared from sight. After that, Juri tighten her grips on Takato's hand and cried into his chest, releasing the sadness she felt. Takato however, held back his tear. Heeding Yousei's advice, he vowed that he would never cry again. He looked towards the horizon where the two Holy warriors had gone and whispered, "All the best to you all…"

As the two riders plodded down the green hill, the boy told his companion, "Hikari, I've been meaning to ask this a few days ago." The other nodded for him to continue. "How is it that you got here to Mescaria so fast since your on the far west side of Gaea, in the continent of Windyian?"

The girl smiled even as she had her gaze focused on the road before her. She answered the boy, "I'm a Holy Warrior with the power of wind. That's why I could manipulate the wind and gave me 'Flight', which is the ability to fly."

Wallace had his eyes wide as he could and asked, "Then, wouldn't it be better if you were to bring the two of us with your power to Barole? At this rate, it would take some time to reach there."

Even with all the motion, Hikari manages to shakes her head and tells the cyan-eyed boy, "My power couldn't carry the two of us at the same time. And beside," she smiled and sniffed the air. "I like it better this way, with the wind rustling my hair and journeying across Gaea on horseback."

Wallace decided to leave it at that and keep all his questions to himself. All the time, they kept quiet, and only stopped when they reach a pond, river or any source of water to let their horses take a drink. And a few minutes after that, they would be on their way already. At night, Wallace would pitch up a tent that is stored in his kind of large backpack. The next morning, over the mountain they went, and across the field they go. Plowing into river to cross the bank.

With each passing day, Barole got closer and closer…

Namida no mukou de boku wo mitsukeyou
Hitotsu hitotsu tashikamenagara
Boku ga boku ni naru ashita e

Across the tears I'll find myself
Checking everything one by one
To a tomorrow where I can be myself

Kimi ga matsu kouen e asa wo wakete hashiru
Mata kutsu ga kitsuku natta yo

Running through the morning to the park where you wait for me
My shoes are getting tight again

Ookiku naru jibun ni dokoka oitsukenai
Kokoro dake ga ashibumi shite

I can't seem to catch up with myself as I grow
My heart is the only thing that's hesitating

Tsuyoku narou demo nan no tame?
Kimi ni tazuneta keredo
Fushigisou ni waraikaesu dake

I want to be stronger, but for what?
I asked you, but
You just laughed as if I were strange

Kokoro no dokoka ni tsuyoi boku ga iru
Tama ni shika dete konai keredo
Kimi ga oshiete kureta
Namida no mukou de boku wo mitsukeyou
Hitotsu hitotsu tashikamenagara
Boku ga boku ni naru ashita e to

Somewhere in my heart there's a strong me
He only comes out once in a while, but
You taught me
Across the tears I'll find myself
Checking everything one by one
To a tomorrow where I can be myself

Yasashii yatsu nan da to minna ga omotteru
Sore ga sukoshi kuyashiin da

Everyone just thinks I'm a nice guy
It's a little galling

Tatakaeru koto dake ga tsuyosa ja nai hazu sa
Wakatteru no ni ienakutte

Being able to fight isn't the only way to be strong
I know that, but I can't say it

Boku no tame ni kimi ga kizu tsuku
Sore ga tsurai kara ima tsuyoku narou
Hon no sukoshi demo

It's hard to see you get hurt for me
That's why I'm trying to get stronger
Even if it's just a little bit

Mienai tsubasa mo ookiku naru ka na
Kutsu ga kitsuku naru mitai ni
Totsuzen wakaru no ka na?
Namida no mukou de kimi ga warau kara
Kitto boku mo koete yukeru sa
Tsumasaki kara ima, ashita e to

Will my invisible wings get bigger, too?
Just like when my shoes get too tight
Will I notice all of a sudden?
Across the tears you're laughing
I'm sure I'll be able to get across, too
From my fingertips, to tomorrow

Kokoro no dokoka ni tsuyoi boku ga iru
Tama ni shika dete konai keredo
Kimi ga oshiete kureta
Namida no mukou de boku wo mitsukeyou
Hitotsu hitotsu tashikamenagara
Boku ga boku ni naru ashita e to

Somewhere in my heart there's a strong me
He only comes out once in a while, but
You taught me
Across the tears I'll find myself
Checking everything one by one
To a tomorrow where I can be myself

***********************************************************************************************

Translations:

Magic:

Bishiousu Bine – Vicious Vine

Torunado – Tornado

Miscellaneous:

Itadakimasu – We'll receive now! (Let's eat!)

Otougibanashi – Fairy Tale

Kadaan – Flower Bed

Shizen – Nature

Gankyuu – Eyeball

Obaake – Phantom

Author's Note:

First of all, I apologize for the EXTREMELY long delay for this chapter. I've remade this chapter after finding the first one a little awkward. In any case, I'm really, REALLY, sorry for taking so long.

Secondly, I would like to make it clear that this fanfic is strictly Takari. For my readers who wanted to know who the pairings are, just read the info on my page.

Also, Wallace does have a younger sister called Amy. If you see the Japanese version of 'Digimon Adventure 02 : Digimon Hurricane Touchdown!' and also 'Digimon Adventure 02 : Supreme Evolution! The Golden Digimentals!'.

Lastly, please leave your comments in the review. I would really appreciate it and treasure all that are sent. Also, I would like to thank ALL who have reviewed before. Thank you!!

And oh, the song above is Takato Matsuda's image song, 'Across the Tear'.

With that, wait for the next chapter, 'The Warriors' Encounter'.