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Disclaimer: Rayearth is the property of CLAMP/Kodansha, not me obviously! Original characters do belong to me though. ^_^
Sorry for the horrible delay. I've been working on bits and pieces of the story whenever I get a chance. I haven't been very happy with everything I've written and each time I come back to it, I change something. But thank you too all of you wonderful readers who review and email me, encouraging me to continue. Seriously, you guys are the people that make me try and want to get something finished.
But with the huge break in my writing I found it very helpful to look at some yummy images of a nice OAV Clef. I had almost forgotten cute he is. *evil grin* Almost. The bit of Hikaru and Lantis fluff is for the reader who emailed me asking for it. I've never written those two, so sorry if it's not as much as you wanted. But enjoy the little that is there. ^_^ Sorry, no Umi and Clef mushiness in this chapter. Anyway, I hope this chapter is long enough for you. It's kind of hard for me to know in a story of this length, how in depth I should go. I keep thinking of where I want this to go, but I have to set the general story first. So, stick with me. Again, thank you to all the readers who still stick with me when I take so long to write.
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Devotions
Author: Blue Angel Samui
Chapter Five: Beginning
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The warmth of the fire blazing before them flowed over her body in waves. The dancing flames entranced Hikaru as her mind carelessly wandered. Staring intently into the crackling fire she snuggled closer into his protective yet gentle embrace.
The evening had been quiet, and Lantis had yet to say a word. Of course, he was generally a remarkably quiet man. He was strong and silent, protectively watching over the enthusiastic, energetic, beautiful, and loving woman that Hikaru had matured into, with his smiling and knowing eyes. Feeling remarkably unlike her normally chipper self, pulled down by the weight of her deep thoughts, Hikaru gazed up to look at Lantis, curious if her ever watchful love had noticed. A smile crept across her lips as she was rewarded with the heart warming sight of him dozing off. His head slightly tipped forward so that his bangs partially hid his eyes, his slow rhythmic breathing a comforting sound. Stretching up, she placed a light kiss on the side of his neck and giggled. His eyes shot open and an adorable befuddled and slightly confused look crossed his face.
"I'm sorry." he quietly apologized stifling a small yawn. Hikaru's eyes sparkled with the glow of the fire as tilted her head to the side and smiled at him.
"Don't be, you were adorable. I'm sorry I'm being so dull, I'm just not myself tonight." Concern shone in his eyes but she let out a dramatic and playful sigh before he could respond. Tossing her braid behind her shoulder she quickly spun to face him and sit on her knees. His eyebrows arched curiously as he tried to guess the next move she would make in her unexpected wave of energy and excitement.
Moving to straddle his legs and sit on his lap she leaned towards him letting her nose practically touch his. He wasted no time in capturing her lips with his. Running his hand along her back and up her neck he hungrily pulled her small frame closer to him. Hikaru entwined her arms around his neck and let out a giggle as he eagerly leaned into her almost toppling her backwards as he trailed heated kisses down her neck. Cradling her with his hands, Lantis continued to lean Hikaru onto her back until he was hovering over her. They paused in their intimacy as Lantis gazed into her amazing ruby eyes. Bringing her hands to gently cup his face she smiled and pulled him toward her for a kiss. Hurriedly trailing kisses along her jaw he nuzzled her neck, while running a hand down her shoulder and arm.
Her hand abruptly came to his shoulder and gently pushed him away. He looked down at her through his dark bangs, confused. She seemed to be staring right through him, her eyes glassed over and vacant.
"Hikaru, what's wrong?"
Her voice was soft and low. "Something is starting."
"What?" He didn't understand what she was referring to. Had he done something wrong?
A repetitive knock sounded on the room's large wood door. "Hikaru?" Fuu's apprehensive voice questioned. The door began to rattle as the knocking became more urgent and forceful. Lantis stood up and walked to the door. When he opened it he was greeted by Fuu, Ferio, and Ascot. Fuu's hands were firmly clenched onto a piece of parchment and her gaze was an almost disturbingly serious.
"I'm sorry to intrude but." she spoke quickly as she brushed past him and walked into the room.
Confused, Lantis questioningly looked to Ferio and Ascot who still stood in the doorway. Holding his arm in a gesture for the men to follow Fuu into the room, Lantis waited for someone to speak. As Ferio passed into the room he quietly and simply stated, "It's a letter from Clef."
"And?" Lantis asked unsure how that would explain anything.
"And our Master Mage has allowed for Umi to be abducted." Ascot harshly added with cold eyes. "Apparently something is going on and Clef didn't have the decency to inform us of what it is or have the common sense to realize that might put Umi in danger." Ascot stiffly walked towards the two women who were silently huddled together reading the letter.
Ferio calmly approached Ascot as he began to speak, lifting his hands in front of him in an attempt to calm the furious man. "Ascot, I'm sure if Clef really had thought anything along these lines would happen he would have done things differently. We don't even know what's really going on yet so let's just wait before we start condemning people. "
"He's our Master Mage, he's more than capable of analyzing and predicting the seriousness and outcome of situations. Hell, that's what his job is!" Spinning on his heels and throwing his arms in the air Ascot let out an aggravated sigh and waited for Hikaru and Fuu to respond.
"Ascot, Umi is a Magic Knight, she doesn't need to be coddled so. She can determine for herself if a situation was too dangerous," Fuu calmly responded. She was sure Umi wouldn't have been offended by the idea of others babying her and taking her skill and judgment for granted.
"It could be just a completely random kidnapping," Lantis added as he finally entered the conversation.
"Clef would have been able to handle that without as much as a flick of the wrist. It's obviously much more serious since he sent this letter." Hikaru raised the letter in her hand for him to see just to prove her point.
"The letter seems very hastily written." Fuu added.
"Well of course it is!" Ascot yelled as he stalked off to a corner of the room.
"Okay, can everyone just calm down?" Hikaru looked around the room to make sure she had everyone's attention. "Clef has asked us to meet him as soon as we can. I think we should focus on getting ourselves to this place. He said he would explain more when we got there but this is most likely the beginning of a bigger problem to come. Cephiro may be in danger." Everyone's eyes grew big as thoughts of another threat to Cephiro. Hadn't this world experienced enough threat and suffering?
Hikaru continued, "Ascot, you can explain to the others where we're going and."
Ascot shook his head and took a defensive stance. "I'm going too."
"I'm not sure that's the best idea," Fuu stated quietly, unsure how to continue without insulting him or making the situation worse.
It was then that all the anger left his voice and the quiet, gentle, and rather broken side of Ascot came forward. He dropped his head and his voice went soft as he acknowledged their reluctance. "I know." he paused unsure how to continue. "I know, she's not mine to save. I really am trying to." Looking up, a sad smile played on his lips. "I just want to help. She is still my friend. And Cephiro is my home too."
Fuu looked to Hikaru who nodded in consent and answered. "Alright Ascot, you can come too. I think we may need all the help we can get. I've been having this feeling that a something big is going to happen. I wasn't sure, but now I know something is starting. Clef is right, Cephiro could be in danger."
A general feeling of dread flew through the room, leaving everyone momentarily silent. It was a sudden loud "Pu!" that pulled everyone back to reality. Mokona bounded into the room and jumped into Hikaru's waiting and open arms. "Right!" Hikaru handed the letter to Ferio. "Clef wants us to meet him along the north east shore near the rocky beaches past the wooded area in the north east. I have a good idea where it is. I'm sure Clef will somehow help us find him when we get close."
Ferio nodded knowing of the general area of which she spoke. "It's odd, I don't know of any settlements or anything of real importance there." He laughed uneasily trying to break the tension, "perfect place for evil to hide or plot, huh?" No one else laughed and Ferio cleared his throat uneasily.
"Let's get going!" Hikaru urged as she started to run for the door. "Fuu, let's get Rayearth and Windam." Fuu nodded and took off in a sprint after Hikaru.
"I will tell the others of what is happening," said Lantis in his calm low voice. "You two should meet the girls and start off with one of Ascot's 'friends'. I'll quickly catch up on my steed." The trio nodded and quickly took off in different directions.
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Umi let out a low moan and attempted to lift her heavy eyelids. Her head was swimming and her body felt as if someone had set a forty pound weight on her stomach. She was lying on something soft though, she could tell that. Slowly opening her eyes she was only greeted with fuzzy shapes and large spots of color. Blinking repeatedly and dragging a heavy hand up to her face to rub her eyes her surroundings began to become clear. She could discern that the room she was in was dimly lit and it had a stone ceiling. With another moan she wearily pulled herself into a sitting position, battling with the dizziness that screamed in her head, demanding that she lie back down. She felt unusually cold and rather damp.
She looked around the room. The room was composed of dank stone walls and was small. A thin window in the wall was open, allowing a fresh breeze into the room and the small amount of light that lit the room. A large tapestry was hung covering most of the wall behind her and another hung covering a portion of the wall in front of her. A thick wooden door with a large metal latch was the only entrance into the room, from what she could tell. A fireplace housed a few smoldering ashes. She was sitting on a large bed with a canopy that draped prettily over the head of the bed. Besides the bed, and a small chair and table which were positioned next to the head of the bed, the room was devoid of objects. Umi confusedly took in her surroundings. Where was she? This room looked nothing like any of the rooms of Cephiro's castle. The room reminded her of the interiors of the ancient, French, stone castles she had visited when her family had vacationed in Europe.
What had happened to her? Everything was so fuzzy, thoughts and vision. All she understood was that she was alone in this odd room and she had an amazingly debilitating headache. Hanging her legs off the side of the bed, she took in a shocked breath when her bare feet touched the cold stone floor. Where were her shoes? She carefully stood up and wearily walked to the small window. Peering out the window she let out a small gasp. Her room appeared to be in some type of tower that connected to an ancient stone castle. The side of the castle she could see overlooked a steep hill which turned into a stony beach. The water was dark blue and a light mist rolled over the water. Umi couldn't see anything in the distance for a wall of fog appeared to surround the castle. Where was she?
She carefully rubbed her neck, trying to discern why her neck was so stiff. As she hobbled back to the bed and bent over to look for her misplaced shoes a sharp pain hit her. Grasping her head she curled up into a ball on the floor as memories from the past night rushed back to her. It was as if a flood gate had been opened allowing everything to come back to her. Resting her back against the side of the bed, she sat on the cold floor and gazed fearfully at the wall before her. Who had attacked her? Had they brought her here? What happened to Clef? She prayed that he was alright and some similar misfortune hadn't befallen him.
The reality of her situation seemed to sink in and as her panic mounted she found herself overcome with rage. Her captor obviously didn't know who they were dealing with. She closed her eyes and mentally called out to Selece. Her only reply was silence. Confused she called out again and again received no reply. Selece always spoke to her when she wanted him, why wasn't he there now? Concentrating she gasped when she could barely feel her connection with the manshin. Where was he? Or for that matter, where the hell was she? Lifting her hand, palm up towards the heavens, she concentrated and was greatly disturbed when she could barely call forth a small floating ball of water. It was as if her magic, or her ability to use it, was being dampened. Was this why she couldn't contact Selece? Wringing her hands she began to truly panic when she realized she no longer had on her glove containing her ovum.
The sound of the metal door latch moving made Umi freeze in her spot. Soft footsteps were heard as someone entered the room. The intruder set something onto the table, next to the bed, with a clatter and silently observed the room. Umi's breath caught in her throat and she closed her eyes and hugged her legs close to her, expecting the worst.
"Miss? Are you alright?" a small feminine voice questioned.
Umi looked up in shock and stared at the young woman who peered over the bed at her in concern through large green eyes. The girl had long, wavy, black hair and wore decorative gold circlet on her head. An odd green and blue dress comfortably draped around her form and was brought in decoratively with gold cording. The picture she presented reminded Umi of paintings of ancient Greeks back on Earth. Umi, unsure how to respond, just nodded.
The girl came over to Umi and delicately helped her to her feet. Still feeling quite ill and confused, Umi willingly allowed the girl to help her up and sit her on the bed. Watching the girl, through hazy eyes, briskly walk to the fireplace and rekindle the dying flames Umi tried to discern if the girl could be trusted. Umi uncomfortably ran her hand up her arm and uneasily waited for the girl to speak.
The raven haired girl, having finished her work with the fire, turned and walked to Umi. She had a friendly smile on her face and was holding Umi's misplaced shoes. "I'm glad you are finally up. Your shoes have finally dried," she cheerily commented while she placed the shoes next to Umi on the bed. "You must be hungry," she continued and she moved back to the small table.
"Yes..." Umi quietly replied with a cracked and dry voice.
The girl returned to Umi's side with a tray that held a bowl of steaming broth. Umi accepted the tray with a nod and watched the girl sit next her on the bed and eagerly watch her. Umi stared right back at the girl with a questioning look on her face.
"Go on, I prepared it myself. It has a pleasant taste and is actually very good for you," the girl continued, motioning towards the bowl.
Umi lifted the steaming bowl to her lips and tasted the warm, golden liquid. As soon as the broth touched her lips her whole body was filled with invigorating warmth and her headache began to dissipate. Enjoying the amazing liquid's taste and effects Umi quickly downed the whole bowl. The girl smiled at Umi, obviously pleased she had enjoyed the broth.
"That should make you feel a lot better. You were soaked to the bone when he brought you and you had quite the fitful sleep," commented the girl as she collected Umi's bowl and the tray. "You must have been caught in quite a downpour."
"Can I ask who you are?" Umi cautiously interrupted.
"Oh, where are my manners?" the girl chirped as she put down the tray on the table again. Facing Umi she bowed her head and made an odd but graceful gesture with her hands. "I have been given the name of Selena by the Priestess," she proudly stated. "I am happy that the Power has allowed our paths to cross. What name have you been given?"
"Umi... Ryuuzaki," Umi replied unsure of how to receive the girl before her. She seemed friendly and kind, and maybe a little too cheery and innocent. Was she perhaps hiding something? But who else could Umi trust when she had so many questions? "I'm sorry, but how did I get here? That is to say, who 'brought' me here?"
"Why, Master Armatus brought you here late last night. It was most odd and surprising. We weren't expecting him to return for at least another week, or for him to bring back a visitor. This is so exciting!"
"Armatus!?" Umi's blood ran cold and her heart skipped a beat. Why would Clef's friend kidnap her? It was the same man wasn't it? She could fret over this news after she had a better idea as to what her situation actually was.
"Yes, Master Armatus..." Her eyes nervously shot towards the door and back to Umi as she replaced some stray hair behind her ear.
"And where is 'here'?" Umi questioned while she motioned to the room.
"This is the island Satoria."
"Is Satoria in Cephiro? I don't believe I've heard of it before. Is this another country?"
Selena's eyes grew big as she spoke quickly and quietly, "So you *have* come from the mainland of Cephiro! My friends and I weren't sure, but you were dressed so differently and where else would Master Armatus..." she trailed off and nervously looked to the doorway again.
"Wait, slow down. Can we just set a few things straight?" Umi interrupted, growing rather agitated. "I don't have slightest clue as to what you are speaking of. Now listen! All I know is that I was kidnapped and taken here by a man who was supposed to be Clef's friend. I just woke up with an amazing headache, no shoes, and I have no idea if Clef is alright or something horrible has befallen him..." Umi herself began to grow hysterical and she started to cry as the reality of her situation once again overcame her. Anger was quick to follow her burst of emotions. "What is going on? Where is my ovum and why can't I call upon my magic? What do you people want with me?"
Selena watched the sapphire haired girl solemnly and quickly grasped her hands to gain her attention. Looking right into her eyes Selena spoke in a hushed serious voice. The playful and innocent tone from early could no longer be heard. "I cannot say much to you now, he is always listening. I will tell you more later, and I will try to help you. Maybe you in turn can help us." The seriousness of her gaze left Umi speechless and Umi nodded when Selena's eyes begged her for a response. Selena's hold on her hands tightened as her eyes once again shot to look at the doorway again, as if expecting someone. With a slight nod and a wink Selena slowly moved away from Umi and began to speak loudly in her cheerful, birdlike voice. "I am sorry, I didn't mean to upset you. I don't believe I can answer all your questions. I don't understand everything you are speaking of. I can take you to Master Armatus, he may be able to answer your questions."
Umi looked up at Selena and nodded acknowledging that she would speak with Selena again later. Selena was hiding something and couldn't speak of it now. She didn't know why, but Umi felt she could trust her. But the sooner she spoke with this Armatus the sooner she would know what she was facing or what was happening to her. "Yes, I'd like to speak with Armatus. Now!"
"Then I have arrived just in time," a commanding male voice interrupted. "Thank you, Selena, for looking after her. I would like a word with our guest now."
Umi spun around on the bed startled and took in the man standing in the doorway. His brown hair was pulled back into a ponytail and his long bushy bangs partly covered his left eye. His visible green eye shone brightly and a triumphant smirk played on his lips. He wore a long deep green cloak and a golden falcon rested on his shoulder. Obviously enjoying his dramatic entrance he sauntered into the room and casually pulled off his large leather gloves.
Selena turned towards him and made another odd gesture with her hands while she bowed. "I will take my leave then Master Armatus." Quickly brushing past the tall man she was stopped when Umi called out to her.
"Thank you Selena. for.the soup."
Turning her head to look back at Umi as she exited the room Selena smiled graciously to Umi and then disappeared. Umi angrily looked up at Armatus as he approached her bed. Clenching her fists she refused to shy away from the imposing man. "Take me back," she coldly demanded.
He lightly laughed, "Aren't we the spirited one? What makes you think that you are in any position to make demands?"
His arrogance only infuriated Umi more. "You have no idea as to what I'm capable of... and you should know that Clef isn't one to take lightly either."
"Ah yes, imagine my surprise to find that Clef's woman was a legendary Magic Knight!" He was very pleased to see the beauty before him visibly flinch. "But now that you are here, and I have taken your ovum, I do believe I have very little to fear from you."
Umi ran her fingers over her hand which normally bore her glove containing her ovum. "What do you mean 'now that I'm here'? What the hell is going on! Why have you taken me? Aren't you supposed to be Clef's friend?"
Chuckling he wandered to the window and gazed out into the fog covered water. "So forceful and full of questions! But I see no reason to not answer them." Clicking his tongue the falcon on his shoulder quickly flew out the window and into the mist. He turned and smiled at the enraged woman before him. She looked like a cat ready to spring and attack him with what little strength she seemed to hold at the moment. "But, if I am to answer your questions I ask that you first answer one of mine." She only glared at him in response. "What is your name?"
The question seemed harmless enough. She might finally be able to get some answers as well! She bitterly spat out her reply "Umi Ryuuzaki."
He seemed greatly pleased with her cooperation and he paused, as if filing away the information. Pulling aside his cloak in a graceful movement of his arm he bowed. "I am the Mage known as Armatus, former companion to Master Mage Clef. I am truly sorry to have greatly inconvenienced you Lady Umi but the current happenings called for this course of action." Umi stared at the man in disbelief. "And I am quite positive that Clef will come for you, in fact I'm counting on it."
"Then he is alright?" A weight seemed to lift from her shoulders momentarily.
"Yes, of course he is. I need his cooperation... But I am getting ahead of myself. My lady, you are on the small island of Satoria which is right off the coastline of Cephiro. The fog you see surrounding this island blocks out the mainland of Cephiro. Or maybe it's better to say that the fog blocks 'us' from Cephiro. Thanks to this magnificent barrier you would find that, even with your ovum, your connection to your manshin and powers would be very strained. So I wouldn't recommend trying anything foolish or heroic while you are here. It's not the most pleasant of sensations when your soul and body are taxed from fighting for control over the barrier. I wouldn't recommend trying to swim to shore either." Umi eyed him and sneered. "Oh, you can try if you would like but the water is deathly cold and the fog has a tendency to confuse swimmers and send them right back here. Or they just loose their way and die in the icy waters."
She was becoming even more aggravated, if that was possible. The man seemed to love to hear himself speak! "Well, you have everything figured out and planned don't you?" she growled clenching a shaking hand. She felt so cold and weak still, and she was having trouble keeping herself from shuttering visibly. But she wasn't going to let him brush her aside.
He smiled a devilish grin as he looked down at her. "But of course! I'll come to the point then. Behave and you will be treated as any lady should be treated, with respect and my word as a gentleman that you will be comfortable while you are here." He leaned down closer to her, his face hovering right above her pouting face. "If you misbehave you are only going to make things harder for yourself while we await your Mage's arrival."
She stared him right in the eyes and spoke with all the malice she could muster. "I don't take orders very well." He was obviously taken back by her assertiveness which gave her a delightful sense of satisfaction. She scoffed, "and I don't see how you can call yourself a gentleman when you abduct women. You are a coward!"
He cut her off, visibly angry, "Well, this will prove to be an interesting wait, won't it?" My, was she spirited, even in her current condition! Her skin was discerningly pale and a hint of blue even appeared to play on her lips. The result of sleeping in her soaked gown, in an already damp and cold room, he assumed. He would have Selena see that dry clothes were brought to her immediately. He turned on his heel and sternly walked to the door. "I am afraid, my lady, that I have many important tasks that require my attention here and I won't be able to answer all your questions right now. I'm sure Selena and the other ladies will be of help and you of course are free to wonder the grounds as you please. Just keep my warning in mind." Armatus took a quick step to his right as shoe flew past his left ear and collided with the wall.
"Damn!" Umi gritted her teeth as she watched him slowly turn to face her, shaking his head like a disapproving parent would to a naughty child.
"Really now." he sighed disapprovingly as he picked up the shoe and tossed it onto the bed next to her. "Is that any way for a lady to behave?"
"Bite me!"
He laughed again and swiftly walked out the door, his cape fluttering behind him. Umi continued to stare at the empty doorway with a look that could kill, long after he left. Letting out a shuttered but calming breath she looked down at her shaking hands attempting to still them. Sliding of the bed she crept to the fire place and warmed herself as she thought. She needed to meet up with Selena again. The girl seemed to want to help her and was not extremely fond of or comfortable around Armatus. She also needed a better idea of her surroundings if she was going to attempt to escape. Some sort of trap, it seemed, was being set for Clef and she was the bait. That conceded bastard was going to learn that she wasn't one to take lightly and she wasn't about to let anything happen to Clef in his attempt to save her.
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End of Chapter Five
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Stay tuned for Chapter Six. Thank you for reading and for sticking with me. Reviews and emails are always welcomed.
-Samui
samui@angelicdream.com
www.angelicdream.com www.cosplaycuties.net
Sapphire Elegance (An Umi Ryuuzaki shrine!)
www.angelicdream.com/umi
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Disclaimer: Rayearth is the property of CLAMP/Kodansha, not me obviously! Original characters do belong to me though. ^_^
Sorry for the horrible delay. I've been working on bits and pieces of the story whenever I get a chance. I haven't been very happy with everything I've written and each time I come back to it, I change something. But thank you too all of you wonderful readers who review and email me, encouraging me to continue. Seriously, you guys are the people that make me try and want to get something finished.
But with the huge break in my writing I found it very helpful to look at some yummy images of a nice OAV Clef. I had almost forgotten cute he is. *evil grin* Almost. The bit of Hikaru and Lantis fluff is for the reader who emailed me asking for it. I've never written those two, so sorry if it's not as much as you wanted. But enjoy the little that is there. ^_^ Sorry, no Umi and Clef mushiness in this chapter. Anyway, I hope this chapter is long enough for you. It's kind of hard for me to know in a story of this length, how in depth I should go. I keep thinking of where I want this to go, but I have to set the general story first. So, stick with me. Again, thank you to all the readers who still stick with me when I take so long to write.
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Devotions
Author: Blue Angel Samui
Chapter Five: Beginning
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The warmth of the fire blazing before them flowed over her body in waves. The dancing flames entranced Hikaru as her mind carelessly wandered. Staring intently into the crackling fire she snuggled closer into his protective yet gentle embrace.
The evening had been quiet, and Lantis had yet to say a word. Of course, he was generally a remarkably quiet man. He was strong and silent, protectively watching over the enthusiastic, energetic, beautiful, and loving woman that Hikaru had matured into, with his smiling and knowing eyes. Feeling remarkably unlike her normally chipper self, pulled down by the weight of her deep thoughts, Hikaru gazed up to look at Lantis, curious if her ever watchful love had noticed. A smile crept across her lips as she was rewarded with the heart warming sight of him dozing off. His head slightly tipped forward so that his bangs partially hid his eyes, his slow rhythmic breathing a comforting sound. Stretching up, she placed a light kiss on the side of his neck and giggled. His eyes shot open and an adorable befuddled and slightly confused look crossed his face.
"I'm sorry." he quietly apologized stifling a small yawn. Hikaru's eyes sparkled with the glow of the fire as tilted her head to the side and smiled at him.
"Don't be, you were adorable. I'm sorry I'm being so dull, I'm just not myself tonight." Concern shone in his eyes but she let out a dramatic and playful sigh before he could respond. Tossing her braid behind her shoulder she quickly spun to face him and sit on her knees. His eyebrows arched curiously as he tried to guess the next move she would make in her unexpected wave of energy and excitement.
Moving to straddle his legs and sit on his lap she leaned towards him letting her nose practically touch his. He wasted no time in capturing her lips with his. Running his hand along her back and up her neck he hungrily pulled her small frame closer to him. Hikaru entwined her arms around his neck and let out a giggle as he eagerly leaned into her almost toppling her backwards as he trailed heated kisses down her neck. Cradling her with his hands, Lantis continued to lean Hikaru onto her back until he was hovering over her. They paused in their intimacy as Lantis gazed into her amazing ruby eyes. Bringing her hands to gently cup his face she smiled and pulled him toward her for a kiss. Hurriedly trailing kisses along her jaw he nuzzled her neck, while running a hand down her shoulder and arm.
Her hand abruptly came to his shoulder and gently pushed him away. He looked down at her through his dark bangs, confused. She seemed to be staring right through him, her eyes glassed over and vacant.
"Hikaru, what's wrong?"
Her voice was soft and low. "Something is starting."
"What?" He didn't understand what she was referring to. Had he done something wrong?
A repetitive knock sounded on the room's large wood door. "Hikaru?" Fuu's apprehensive voice questioned. The door began to rattle as the knocking became more urgent and forceful. Lantis stood up and walked to the door. When he opened it he was greeted by Fuu, Ferio, and Ascot. Fuu's hands were firmly clenched onto a piece of parchment and her gaze was an almost disturbingly serious.
"I'm sorry to intrude but." she spoke quickly as she brushed past him and walked into the room.
Confused, Lantis questioningly looked to Ferio and Ascot who still stood in the doorway. Holding his arm in a gesture for the men to follow Fuu into the room, Lantis waited for someone to speak. As Ferio passed into the room he quietly and simply stated, "It's a letter from Clef."
"And?" Lantis asked unsure how that would explain anything.
"And our Master Mage has allowed for Umi to be abducted." Ascot harshly added with cold eyes. "Apparently something is going on and Clef didn't have the decency to inform us of what it is or have the common sense to realize that might put Umi in danger." Ascot stiffly walked towards the two women who were silently huddled together reading the letter.
Ferio calmly approached Ascot as he began to speak, lifting his hands in front of him in an attempt to calm the furious man. "Ascot, I'm sure if Clef really had thought anything along these lines would happen he would have done things differently. We don't even know what's really going on yet so let's just wait before we start condemning people. "
"He's our Master Mage, he's more than capable of analyzing and predicting the seriousness and outcome of situations. Hell, that's what his job is!" Spinning on his heels and throwing his arms in the air Ascot let out an aggravated sigh and waited for Hikaru and Fuu to respond.
"Ascot, Umi is a Magic Knight, she doesn't need to be coddled so. She can determine for herself if a situation was too dangerous," Fuu calmly responded. She was sure Umi wouldn't have been offended by the idea of others babying her and taking her skill and judgment for granted.
"It could be just a completely random kidnapping," Lantis added as he finally entered the conversation.
"Clef would have been able to handle that without as much as a flick of the wrist. It's obviously much more serious since he sent this letter." Hikaru raised the letter in her hand for him to see just to prove her point.
"The letter seems very hastily written." Fuu added.
"Well of course it is!" Ascot yelled as he stalked off to a corner of the room.
"Okay, can everyone just calm down?" Hikaru looked around the room to make sure she had everyone's attention. "Clef has asked us to meet him as soon as we can. I think we should focus on getting ourselves to this place. He said he would explain more when we got there but this is most likely the beginning of a bigger problem to come. Cephiro may be in danger." Everyone's eyes grew big as thoughts of another threat to Cephiro. Hadn't this world experienced enough threat and suffering?
Hikaru continued, "Ascot, you can explain to the others where we're going and."
Ascot shook his head and took a defensive stance. "I'm going too."
"I'm not sure that's the best idea," Fuu stated quietly, unsure how to continue without insulting him or making the situation worse.
It was then that all the anger left his voice and the quiet, gentle, and rather broken side of Ascot came forward. He dropped his head and his voice went soft as he acknowledged their reluctance. "I know." he paused unsure how to continue. "I know, she's not mine to save. I really am trying to." Looking up, a sad smile played on his lips. "I just want to help. She is still my friend. And Cephiro is my home too."
Fuu looked to Hikaru who nodded in consent and answered. "Alright Ascot, you can come too. I think we may need all the help we can get. I've been having this feeling that a something big is going to happen. I wasn't sure, but now I know something is starting. Clef is right, Cephiro could be in danger."
A general feeling of dread flew through the room, leaving everyone momentarily silent. It was a sudden loud "Pu!" that pulled everyone back to reality. Mokona bounded into the room and jumped into Hikaru's waiting and open arms. "Right!" Hikaru handed the letter to Ferio. "Clef wants us to meet him along the north east shore near the rocky beaches past the wooded area in the north east. I have a good idea where it is. I'm sure Clef will somehow help us find him when we get close."
Ferio nodded knowing of the general area of which she spoke. "It's odd, I don't know of any settlements or anything of real importance there." He laughed uneasily trying to break the tension, "perfect place for evil to hide or plot, huh?" No one else laughed and Ferio cleared his throat uneasily.
"Let's get going!" Hikaru urged as she started to run for the door. "Fuu, let's get Rayearth and Windam." Fuu nodded and took off in a sprint after Hikaru.
"I will tell the others of what is happening," said Lantis in his calm low voice. "You two should meet the girls and start off with one of Ascot's 'friends'. I'll quickly catch up on my steed." The trio nodded and quickly took off in different directions.
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Umi let out a low moan and attempted to lift her heavy eyelids. Her head was swimming and her body felt as if someone had set a forty pound weight on her stomach. She was lying on something soft though, she could tell that. Slowly opening her eyes she was only greeted with fuzzy shapes and large spots of color. Blinking repeatedly and dragging a heavy hand up to her face to rub her eyes her surroundings began to become clear. She could discern that the room she was in was dimly lit and it had a stone ceiling. With another moan she wearily pulled herself into a sitting position, battling with the dizziness that screamed in her head, demanding that she lie back down. She felt unusually cold and rather damp.
She looked around the room. The room was composed of dank stone walls and was small. A thin window in the wall was open, allowing a fresh breeze into the room and the small amount of light that lit the room. A large tapestry was hung covering most of the wall behind her and another hung covering a portion of the wall in front of her. A thick wooden door with a large metal latch was the only entrance into the room, from what she could tell. A fireplace housed a few smoldering ashes. She was sitting on a large bed with a canopy that draped prettily over the head of the bed. Besides the bed, and a small chair and table which were positioned next to the head of the bed, the room was devoid of objects. Umi confusedly took in her surroundings. Where was she? This room looked nothing like any of the rooms of Cephiro's castle. The room reminded her of the interiors of the ancient, French, stone castles she had visited when her family had vacationed in Europe.
What had happened to her? Everything was so fuzzy, thoughts and vision. All she understood was that she was alone in this odd room and she had an amazingly debilitating headache. Hanging her legs off the side of the bed, she took in a shocked breath when her bare feet touched the cold stone floor. Where were her shoes? She carefully stood up and wearily walked to the small window. Peering out the window she let out a small gasp. Her room appeared to be in some type of tower that connected to an ancient stone castle. The side of the castle she could see overlooked a steep hill which turned into a stony beach. The water was dark blue and a light mist rolled over the water. Umi couldn't see anything in the distance for a wall of fog appeared to surround the castle. Where was she?
She carefully rubbed her neck, trying to discern why her neck was so stiff. As she hobbled back to the bed and bent over to look for her misplaced shoes a sharp pain hit her. Grasping her head she curled up into a ball on the floor as memories from the past night rushed back to her. It was as if a flood gate had been opened allowing everything to come back to her. Resting her back against the side of the bed, she sat on the cold floor and gazed fearfully at the wall before her. Who had attacked her? Had they brought her here? What happened to Clef? She prayed that he was alright and some similar misfortune hadn't befallen him.
The reality of her situation seemed to sink in and as her panic mounted she found herself overcome with rage. Her captor obviously didn't know who they were dealing with. She closed her eyes and mentally called out to Selece. Her only reply was silence. Confused she called out again and again received no reply. Selece always spoke to her when she wanted him, why wasn't he there now? Concentrating she gasped when she could barely feel her connection with the manshin. Where was he? Or for that matter, where the hell was she? Lifting her hand, palm up towards the heavens, she concentrated and was greatly disturbed when she could barely call forth a small floating ball of water. It was as if her magic, or her ability to use it, was being dampened. Was this why she couldn't contact Selece? Wringing her hands she began to truly panic when she realized she no longer had on her glove containing her ovum.
The sound of the metal door latch moving made Umi freeze in her spot. Soft footsteps were heard as someone entered the room. The intruder set something onto the table, next to the bed, with a clatter and silently observed the room. Umi's breath caught in her throat and she closed her eyes and hugged her legs close to her, expecting the worst.
"Miss? Are you alright?" a small feminine voice questioned.
Umi looked up in shock and stared at the young woman who peered over the bed at her in concern through large green eyes. The girl had long, wavy, black hair and wore decorative gold circlet on her head. An odd green and blue dress comfortably draped around her form and was brought in decoratively with gold cording. The picture she presented reminded Umi of paintings of ancient Greeks back on Earth. Umi, unsure how to respond, just nodded.
The girl came over to Umi and delicately helped her to her feet. Still feeling quite ill and confused, Umi willingly allowed the girl to help her up and sit her on the bed. Watching the girl, through hazy eyes, briskly walk to the fireplace and rekindle the dying flames Umi tried to discern if the girl could be trusted. Umi uncomfortably ran her hand up her arm and uneasily waited for the girl to speak.
The raven haired girl, having finished her work with the fire, turned and walked to Umi. She had a friendly smile on her face and was holding Umi's misplaced shoes. "I'm glad you are finally up. Your shoes have finally dried," she cheerily commented while she placed the shoes next to Umi on the bed. "You must be hungry," she continued and she moved back to the small table.
"Yes..." Umi quietly replied with a cracked and dry voice.
The girl returned to Umi's side with a tray that held a bowl of steaming broth. Umi accepted the tray with a nod and watched the girl sit next her on the bed and eagerly watch her. Umi stared right back at the girl with a questioning look on her face.
"Go on, I prepared it myself. It has a pleasant taste and is actually very good for you," the girl continued, motioning towards the bowl.
Umi lifted the steaming bowl to her lips and tasted the warm, golden liquid. As soon as the broth touched her lips her whole body was filled with invigorating warmth and her headache began to dissipate. Enjoying the amazing liquid's taste and effects Umi quickly downed the whole bowl. The girl smiled at Umi, obviously pleased she had enjoyed the broth.
"That should make you feel a lot better. You were soaked to the bone when he brought you and you had quite the fitful sleep," commented the girl as she collected Umi's bowl and the tray. "You must have been caught in quite a downpour."
"Can I ask who you are?" Umi cautiously interrupted.
"Oh, where are my manners?" the girl chirped as she put down the tray on the table again. Facing Umi she bowed her head and made an odd but graceful gesture with her hands. "I have been given the name of Selena by the Priestess," she proudly stated. "I am happy that the Power has allowed our paths to cross. What name have you been given?"
"Umi... Ryuuzaki," Umi replied unsure of how to receive the girl before her. She seemed friendly and kind, and maybe a little too cheery and innocent. Was she perhaps hiding something? But who else could Umi trust when she had so many questions? "I'm sorry, but how did I get here? That is to say, who 'brought' me here?"
"Why, Master Armatus brought you here late last night. It was most odd and surprising. We weren't expecting him to return for at least another week, or for him to bring back a visitor. This is so exciting!"
"Armatus!?" Umi's blood ran cold and her heart skipped a beat. Why would Clef's friend kidnap her? It was the same man wasn't it? She could fret over this news after she had a better idea as to what her situation actually was.
"Yes, Master Armatus..." Her eyes nervously shot towards the door and back to Umi as she replaced some stray hair behind her ear.
"And where is 'here'?" Umi questioned while she motioned to the room.
"This is the island Satoria."
"Is Satoria in Cephiro? I don't believe I've heard of it before. Is this another country?"
Selena's eyes grew big as she spoke quickly and quietly, "So you *have* come from the mainland of Cephiro! My friends and I weren't sure, but you were dressed so differently and where else would Master Armatus..." she trailed off and nervously looked to the doorway again.
"Wait, slow down. Can we just set a few things straight?" Umi interrupted, growing rather agitated. "I don't have slightest clue as to what you are speaking of. Now listen! All I know is that I was kidnapped and taken here by a man who was supposed to be Clef's friend. I just woke up with an amazing headache, no shoes, and I have no idea if Clef is alright or something horrible has befallen him..." Umi herself began to grow hysterical and she started to cry as the reality of her situation once again overcame her. Anger was quick to follow her burst of emotions. "What is going on? Where is my ovum and why can't I call upon my magic? What do you people want with me?"
Selena watched the sapphire haired girl solemnly and quickly grasped her hands to gain her attention. Looking right into her eyes Selena spoke in a hushed serious voice. The playful and innocent tone from early could no longer be heard. "I cannot say much to you now, he is always listening. I will tell you more later, and I will try to help you. Maybe you in turn can help us." The seriousness of her gaze left Umi speechless and Umi nodded when Selena's eyes begged her for a response. Selena's hold on her hands tightened as her eyes once again shot to look at the doorway again, as if expecting someone. With a slight nod and a wink Selena slowly moved away from Umi and began to speak loudly in her cheerful, birdlike voice. "I am sorry, I didn't mean to upset you. I don't believe I can answer all your questions. I don't understand everything you are speaking of. I can take you to Master Armatus, he may be able to answer your questions."
Umi looked up at Selena and nodded acknowledging that she would speak with Selena again later. Selena was hiding something and couldn't speak of it now. She didn't know why, but Umi felt she could trust her. But the sooner she spoke with this Armatus the sooner she would know what she was facing or what was happening to her. "Yes, I'd like to speak with Armatus. Now!"
"Then I have arrived just in time," a commanding male voice interrupted. "Thank you, Selena, for looking after her. I would like a word with our guest now."
Umi spun around on the bed startled and took in the man standing in the doorway. His brown hair was pulled back into a ponytail and his long bushy bangs partly covered his left eye. His visible green eye shone brightly and a triumphant smirk played on his lips. He wore a long deep green cloak and a golden falcon rested on his shoulder. Obviously enjoying his dramatic entrance he sauntered into the room and casually pulled off his large leather gloves.
Selena turned towards him and made another odd gesture with her hands while she bowed. "I will take my leave then Master Armatus." Quickly brushing past the tall man she was stopped when Umi called out to her.
"Thank you Selena. for.the soup."
Turning her head to look back at Umi as she exited the room Selena smiled graciously to Umi and then disappeared. Umi angrily looked up at Armatus as he approached her bed. Clenching her fists she refused to shy away from the imposing man. "Take me back," she coldly demanded.
He lightly laughed, "Aren't we the spirited one? What makes you think that you are in any position to make demands?"
His arrogance only infuriated Umi more. "You have no idea as to what I'm capable of... and you should know that Clef isn't one to take lightly either."
"Ah yes, imagine my surprise to find that Clef's woman was a legendary Magic Knight!" He was very pleased to see the beauty before him visibly flinch. "But now that you are here, and I have taken your ovum, I do believe I have very little to fear from you."
Umi ran her fingers over her hand which normally bore her glove containing her ovum. "What do you mean 'now that I'm here'? What the hell is going on! Why have you taken me? Aren't you supposed to be Clef's friend?"
Chuckling he wandered to the window and gazed out into the fog covered water. "So forceful and full of questions! But I see no reason to not answer them." Clicking his tongue the falcon on his shoulder quickly flew out the window and into the mist. He turned and smiled at the enraged woman before him. She looked like a cat ready to spring and attack him with what little strength she seemed to hold at the moment. "But, if I am to answer your questions I ask that you first answer one of mine." She only glared at him in response. "What is your name?"
The question seemed harmless enough. She might finally be able to get some answers as well! She bitterly spat out her reply "Umi Ryuuzaki."
He seemed greatly pleased with her cooperation and he paused, as if filing away the information. Pulling aside his cloak in a graceful movement of his arm he bowed. "I am the Mage known as Armatus, former companion to Master Mage Clef. I am truly sorry to have greatly inconvenienced you Lady Umi but the current happenings called for this course of action." Umi stared at the man in disbelief. "And I am quite positive that Clef will come for you, in fact I'm counting on it."
"Then he is alright?" A weight seemed to lift from her shoulders momentarily.
"Yes, of course he is. I need his cooperation... But I am getting ahead of myself. My lady, you are on the small island of Satoria which is right off the coastline of Cephiro. The fog you see surrounding this island blocks out the mainland of Cephiro. Or maybe it's better to say that the fog blocks 'us' from Cephiro. Thanks to this magnificent barrier you would find that, even with your ovum, your connection to your manshin and powers would be very strained. So I wouldn't recommend trying anything foolish or heroic while you are here. It's not the most pleasant of sensations when your soul and body are taxed from fighting for control over the barrier. I wouldn't recommend trying to swim to shore either." Umi eyed him and sneered. "Oh, you can try if you would like but the water is deathly cold and the fog has a tendency to confuse swimmers and send them right back here. Or they just loose their way and die in the icy waters."
She was becoming even more aggravated, if that was possible. The man seemed to love to hear himself speak! "Well, you have everything figured out and planned don't you?" she growled clenching a shaking hand. She felt so cold and weak still, and she was having trouble keeping herself from shuttering visibly. But she wasn't going to let him brush her aside.
He smiled a devilish grin as he looked down at her. "But of course! I'll come to the point then. Behave and you will be treated as any lady should be treated, with respect and my word as a gentleman that you will be comfortable while you are here." He leaned down closer to her, his face hovering right above her pouting face. "If you misbehave you are only going to make things harder for yourself while we await your Mage's arrival."
She stared him right in the eyes and spoke with all the malice she could muster. "I don't take orders very well." He was obviously taken back by her assertiveness which gave her a delightful sense of satisfaction. She scoffed, "and I don't see how you can call yourself a gentleman when you abduct women. You are a coward!"
He cut her off, visibly angry, "Well, this will prove to be an interesting wait, won't it?" My, was she spirited, even in her current condition! Her skin was discerningly pale and a hint of blue even appeared to play on her lips. The result of sleeping in her soaked gown, in an already damp and cold room, he assumed. He would have Selena see that dry clothes were brought to her immediately. He turned on his heel and sternly walked to the door. "I am afraid, my lady, that I have many important tasks that require my attention here and I won't be able to answer all your questions right now. I'm sure Selena and the other ladies will be of help and you of course are free to wonder the grounds as you please. Just keep my warning in mind." Armatus took a quick step to his right as shoe flew past his left ear and collided with the wall.
"Damn!" Umi gritted her teeth as she watched him slowly turn to face her, shaking his head like a disapproving parent would to a naughty child.
"Really now." he sighed disapprovingly as he picked up the shoe and tossed it onto the bed next to her. "Is that any way for a lady to behave?"
"Bite me!"
He laughed again and swiftly walked out the door, his cape fluttering behind him. Umi continued to stare at the empty doorway with a look that could kill, long after he left. Letting out a shuttered but calming breath she looked down at her shaking hands attempting to still them. Sliding of the bed she crept to the fire place and warmed herself as she thought. She needed to meet up with Selena again. The girl seemed to want to help her and was not extremely fond of or comfortable around Armatus. She also needed a better idea of her surroundings if she was going to attempt to escape. Some sort of trap, it seemed, was being set for Clef and she was the bait. That conceded bastard was going to learn that she wasn't one to take lightly and she wasn't about to let anything happen to Clef in his attempt to save her.
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End of Chapter Five
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Stay tuned for Chapter Six. Thank you for reading and for sticking with me. Reviews and emails are always welcomed.
-Samui
samui@angelicdream.com
www.angelicdream.com www.cosplaycuties.net
Sapphire Elegance (An Umi Ryuuzaki shrine!)
www.angelicdream.com/umi
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