Oh Chapter 33
A searching we will go, A searching we will go
High Ho the Dairy Oh .
The man walked down the barren street with his hands stuffed in his pockets. A small gust of wind was swept up and tossed the dead leaves that had been revealed from under the melted snow. A piece of paper flew by and the wind whipped around his feet. The man stopped in front of a window of the toy shop and looked into his sun glasses and checked his hair. After shrugging he kept on walking down the main street. When he reached the cross roads he waited for the light to turn its light color green to flash. He was approaching a large building with steps leading up to the entrance. Every ten feet there was a pillar and two lion statues that where perched gazing their all seeing eyes down at anyone who passed the building. The lion's mouths where wide open and a serpent like tongues were sticking out, its face resembled much of the one of a gargoyle.
Stopping at the front step with his toes at the end of the block before it rose, he looked up to the top as stayed put as if he took one step on the property he would exploded or the earth would swallow him up. Ravens perched up on the top one head twitched as the man lifted his foot and placed it softly on the coble stone leading up to the building. The crows stirred and took off from their perch and flew away. The man looked up with his shaded eyes and smirked. Just before he was about to raise another foot a voice allured his head to the right, right to the corner where a homeless person sat squatting under the lion statue. The old man looked in his 50's and was coughing frequently in his speech.
"I've never met anyone who scared the crows from there home? Is there someone who even the omen of death fears?" he said silently his voice carrying off in the wind. The man raised his eyebrow then gave a chuckle.
"Maybe, maybe there is old man. But I think it's not me . For the crow fears all even it's own reflection," he said as calmly back before fading from view as if he was never there. The old man smiled while rubbing his hands together.
"I may be as old as these stones but . there are some things that still confuse me," he smiled kindly and looked up as the crows re-perched on the top of the building, labeled: The Public Library.
***
"Coming . I'll get the phone sis," shouted the red head as she bounced on the couch then reached to the phone that was sitting on the stool behind the couch. "Hello .? Yes . This is Lina . No . Luna is busy . No . Yes . I tell her to call you back. Ok, good bye," said Lina as she placed the ringer back down on its hook then sighed and plopped down lying on the couch pulling up a pillow to cuddle with it. Lina had been waiting all morning to for a phone call. She was expecting one from Zelgadis, Amelia or Gourry to tell about the plans to go to the library today. Just .a little . longer . "OH, COME ON AND RING ALREADY!!!" shouted Lina furiously at the phone.
Lina pounced up on the phone causing the table that was holding it up to collapse. She picked up the phone with such haste that she almost pulled the cord out. Slowly she got up with the phone and walked to the other side of the couch and sat down. "Hello?"
"Hello, Miss Lina."
"Xellos??? Why are you phoning me???"
"Oh, about the library didn't you know?"
"Xellos, we never invited you," Lina said dryly into the receiver lying down on the couch.
"I know I invited my self, anyways . Zelgadis-kun will be there to pick you up soon, and you should get ready. I have to go wake up Filia."
"Zelgadis-kun?!?!?! . Wake . Hey Xellos wait!!! Don't ." before Lina could get anything in edge wise the line went dead. Lina quietly and agilely placed the phone down on the receiver. She was so calm it was almost scary. A vein the size of her fist appeared on her forehead as she snapped the phone into. She slowly walked down the hall to the front entrance to get ready. "I'm going to kill Xellos," she said in a humming tune through her teeth. As she disappeared around the corner into the porch Luna leaned forward so she was leaning on the railing above the entrance.
She smiled, and quickly turned on her heel.
"Well I must contact quite a few people, and Lina must have to fix that phone," she said darkly as she walked into the kitchen silently padding over to the window that looked out from the duplex and onto the street. She watched as Lina hoped into the blue truck and followed it with her eyes until it left the lot.
***
Filia tossed in her bed, taking all the covers and sheets with her. She yawned some and gave a little shiver as have her legs where poking out of the edge of the bed. The blonde twitched her tail some and turned again. She gazed at her alarm clock; it was 12:00 o'clock. Filia lifted her upper self up with her left arm and with her right rubbed her sleepy eyes. Filia smacked her lips a couple of times, her mouth being as dry as it was.
"It's so earlier ."
"No it's late into the day," said a voice on from her dresser. Just as Filia turned she saw a pillow flying from the direction blocking her view and smacked her in the face. Un-expecting this Filia feel back. She was in a daze until she realized it was a man's voice that she had heard. When she bolted up she saw none other that .
"Xellos," she hissed then gripped onto her cover and pulled it up covering her self up, only being in a T-shirt and underwear.
"I'm glad to see you too Filia, now . if you don't start ." Xellos head was implanted into the wall behind him as so was Filia's mace that she kept tightly tucked under her bed. After the law of gravity kicked in and the mace fell, Xellos smiled as he smirked at her his eyes permanently shut, for the moment.
"XELLOS!!! WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING IN MY BEDROOOM!!!!" she shouted. Xellos hopped off the dresser and stood up Filia flinching some prepared to take any kind of action at any given time.
"Well, it's good you're awake, because in three minutes Lina and Zelgadis will be at you "grandmother's" house," he said coolly. Filia snapped her head to the clock. She had forgotten all about the library . then . Filia gasped and turned her head to Xellos who was turning to leave. "Don't worry your secret is mine, no one will find out," and with that Xellos disappeared with a flash.
After making sure Xellos was gone Filia jumped up and ripped open her drawers searching frantically for clothes to wear. Filia pulled out a pair of pants and a T-shirt. After pulling her outfit on she skidded to the bathroom.
"Oh, good I look terribly," she said to her self. Filia while brushing her teeth started to comb her hair. As soon as she got it as slick and silky she pulled it back into a pony tail and spit out the toothpaste then took a swig of water. Her process after that consisted of a drink of juice, painting her toe nails, applying some make-up on and then running to the doorway making sure that no one was up then she slipped her dainty feet into the thongs (the sandals -_-).
***
Filia ran down the street. The snow having been melted, she was treading through mud puddles and soggy grass. After a short turn she saw Mrs. Byrster's house in view. She smiled as she reached her porch panting; it had been a long run. With on hand on her knee and the other one reaching up to touch the doorbell just before she reached it the door swung open some what violently. Filia looked up from her bangs and instantly stood up, back straight and drew in a deep breath. At the door was not the usually Priscilla, but instead their stood and old woman. She had a sour look on her face as her lips pierced up and her, white frizzy, hair was pulled back so tight it looked as if the skin on her skull would rip off if pulled any further. Her gray eyes pierced into Filia's.
"What do you want?" she asked Filia while looking at her as if she was scum.
"I-I'm here to see Miss. ."
"Sorry, the Miss' will have no visitors she is very ill," she said with malicious. "Come back next week," she said starting to close the door. Filia would have none of this, Miss Bryster was dear to her and she would not be left alone ill in the house. Filia then stuck her foot in between the door the lady looked up at her and glared. "Do you want me to phone the police, now 'git!"
"Listen I need ."
"Let the girl in Nancy, I know her," said a frail voice from behind the old woman (A good time to put in the song "Viva forever"). As soon as the voice rang out the old lady dropped her angry look and replaced it with a worried look. She speed around and ran to Miss Bryster. Filia the door now fully opened gasped at the old lady she had never seen before.
The woman was bent up and clutched a blue quilt that hung from her shoulder. Her eyes were sunken in and turned almost white. Her knuckles that clasped the blanket were white with a tint of purple to match the face of her skin. The woman's cough sounded raspy and when she breathed in she struggled and her eyes dropped some. Her body appeared to sway with the wind, which came in from the door, like a blade of grass in a field.
"Miss, you shouldn't be out of you room! You sick as it is. Please come with me," Nancy said holding Miss Bryster up and scurrying her slowly to the stairs.
"I will I will, don't be so worried," she said and gave a look to Filia and smiled some what nodding, "Just let the girl stay."
"Yes, yes now come along," she said finally as they both disappeared around the corner Miss Bryster still smiling at Filia.
Hot tears swelled up in Filia's eyes as she fells back against the wall. The only person she had really loved in her whole life was fading always before her eyes. Filia slid to the ground burying her face into her knees. She would always remember those white eyes forever . even if it was the last time she saw them .
***
~~~** (Turn off the music .) **~~~
***
The car slowly pulled up into the drive way. The sound of crushing rocks crawled up from under the tiers. Zelgadis placed his rocky palm on the steering wheel and pushed on the horn symbol. About two minutes after the horn's sound died away they saw Filia pad out onto the porch and make her way unusually slowly to the car her head bowed. Lina raised an eyebrow.
"Hey what's the matter Fi???" Lina asked quizzically. Filia snapped up her head and smiled with a questionable look on her face.
"Oh nothing .," she said lifting her self into the tuck climbing over Lina's knees and sat her self between Zel and Lina. In the back seat, from left to right, were Slypheil, Amelia and Gourry they all greeted each other in a sleepy and more or less enthusiastic hellos. After so being done a rather impatient Zel pressed on the gas and shot out of the cul-de-sac taking a sharp turn to the left squishing everyone up against the window or on the person next to them.
"ZEL!!! WATCH IT!!!" yelled Lina from under Filia.
***
Lina sighed as she closed the book shut. No avail. This was a waste of time she thought laying her head on the book.
"Come one Miss Lina you can't give up yet. We haven't even started to look that hard," said Slypheil as she placed a pile of about ten books right in front of Lina. Lina looked at the books and her face became all droopy.
"AAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHH!!!! We'll never get this done! It will take us a life time to get through all these books!!!" shouted Lina pulling out her hair. Slypheil placed her hand on Lina trying to quiet her while everyone in the library glared at her.
The library was as big and scary as it's outside. The book cases almost touched the roof and big pillars held up a domed roof in the middle while paintings from classic books. Rows and rows of oak shelves filled the room and tables where scattered among the blank spaces in the library. Also in the far left at the back was a pit surrounded by plants it was the children's books section. At the front right when you walked in from the rotating door was a large desk that had a computer that was the only thing visible from the high counter top. No one could locate the librarian so they all split up into groups to find anything that might help them.
Slypheil had gone with Lina, Gourry was with Zelgadis and Filia was with Amelia. They had assigned each other places to purge. Zel and Gourry had taken all the right back while Slypheil and Lina took the whole front and Filia and Amelia took the right back. This had proved some what useful. They had now covered almost 1/5 of the library quicker then they thought they would.
"Miss Filia how long do you think it will take to find the right book? What are we really looking for?" asked Amelia as she yawned and stretched out her arms while pouring over her test book called "History: Legends, Truth or not?". Filia sighed and plopped down in the chair next to Amelia overwhelmed in exhaustion.
"I don't know Amelia . I'm not quit sure that it even exists ."
"What exactly are we looking for Miss Filia?" Filia sighed some and then placed her book down sating into the words.
"Some kind of book .any kind of book that might give us information on our enemy . or his power . anything that has a slightest trace of how to defeat him would be fine ."
"But Miss Filia . didn't he say not to look for anything or he would . h- hurt are families ." said Amelia as a lump formed into her throat. The thought of losing another family member was so hard. She jumped when she felt a hand placed upon hers.
"Don't worry Amelia. We'll find the book before anything happens," said Filia soothingly. Amelia smiled whole heartedly then turned her head to look behind her.
"How do you think Mr. Zelgadis and Mr. Gourry are doing?" the dragon rolled her eyes.
"I hope they actually started. But knowing those two Zelgadis will be looking for his cure and Gourry will be . well Gourry will be doing something Gourryish ."
***
Zelgadis's eyes darted to and fro for any book, he knew that they where supposed to be looking for something that may help them in any up coming battle but his mind was now on his cure. He pulled out book that had any close connections to his curse: "How to make your very own golem", "Science and transfiguration" and "Rocks and there properties". He had left Gourry back a little while ago saying that it was good that they should spilt up. Zel was just happy because if he was with any of the others they would have figured out what he was really looking for. It made him angry as he though of it walking down the aisle, it was as if they didn't want him to find his cure when they knew he wanted it so much. Zelgadis came to a halt and clenched his teeth and balled his fists. What if that was it . they didn't want him to change . where they using him . he was useful in this body of course . but . but .but .
Zelgadis slammed his fist against the shelf in anger. How could they be so selfish just thinking of themselves? But before Zel could think of it any longer to make him self angrier the shelf gave a wobble, apparently he had hit it to hard . it was tipping. Zel panicked, it wasn't going to be easy to get out of this one. He rushed over to the other side and with his strength held the books case from falling over and causing a case of dominos in the library. He let out a large sigh that was close.
At that moment Gourry rounded the corner carrying a book or two. Upon observing Zelgadis he raised he's eyebrow then laughed.
"Zel the library is no place to be stretching. If you want to do that you should go to the gym." For once in his life Zelgadis was glad that Gourry's brain was the size of a peanut. "Well anyways I think I found some stuff that might be useful," he said cheerfully looking very proud of himself. Zelgadis's ear perked and he walked over to Gourry and took the books. He looked at the covers.
"I should have known better," he said mumbling to himself, "Gourry?"
"Ya?"
"How is 'How to Cook Squid 20 Different Ways' going to help us?" Zel said showing the cover to Gourry pointing at it.
"Oops, I guessed I picked the wrong book," he said shrugging taking the book and tossing it behind him. Zel stared at him his mouth open slightly he then rolled he's eyes and walked passed Gourry his hand on his hips.
"Well let's get looking for that book, what was it called anyways?"
"Oh ya . it was called . 'History: The War of the . what Xellos is Fall'."
***
"Miss Lina have you found anything yet?" inquired Slypheil looking down from the stepping ladder she was on to Lina who was scanning the bottom shelves with her eyes.
"Not yet, I'll tell u if I see something," she said not even bothering to lift her head. She was practically dragging her self down the aisle her head lolled as she trotted forward and her stomach gave a call out in yearning. Lina moaned as she feel to her knees on of her arm was on the shelf to the left while her other hand held her stomach. "So . Hungry ."
"Don't worry Miss Lina, we'll get some food at supper time but it's only ." Slypheil looked down at her watch quickly, "3:47, so it's almost time." Lina heaved a sigh and look to her side scowling somewhat then her gaze dropped. About two seconds from the moment Lina was able to register what she saw and pull the book from its place on the second bottom shelf. She took a deep breath and blew some of the dust off then rubbed the rest clean with her sleeve.
"This is . this is . it .!" Slypheil heard Lina's voice mumbling something and peered down over her shoulder to see Lina crouched over a book.
"Miss Lina . are you alright?"
A man faded into the corner. He gazed straight at the two women then shook his head while smiling sardonically his razor-sharp teeth shone out of the shadow. He melted back into the shadows then re-appeared directly behind the case. Leisurely he raised his hand to his chest level and placed it softly spread out on the books and with and small chuckle gave a push.
Lina looked up to Slypheil her whole facial expression changed. A smile of triumph was on her face and her adrenalin seemed to be back up. Then her brow furrowed as she noticed a book was slowly slipping out of its place forward . the whole case was falling.
"Slypheil!!! Get off!!!" But it was too late before Slypheil could put action to Lina's words she had fallen off the ladder. Lina rushed over to her the book tucked under her arm. "Are you ok Slypheil?" she asked with a worried tone kneeling next to her friend. Slypheil nodded wincing somewhat then sat up smiling
"I'm fine, don't worry about ." before Slypheil could finish her sentence she was thumped fairly hard on the head by another book and she was out. Lina raised an eyebrow but before she could even comment two other books slide out and fell out her. She quickly turned and gasped to see the book case and the books come down fast on them. Lina threw her hands up which wrapped around her head as she crouched down over Slypheil.
The books flooded off the case and collapsed around them and on them. Lina closed her eyes tightly and clenched her teeth for the oncoming heavy book case that was likely to break her back. After what seemed like forever she slowly open one eye then the other. While un-tensing and sitting up, sending the books that where covering her sliding lower down the pile, her attitude changed from anxiety into death rage in a millisecond. Not realizing that she should be crushed by now Lina took a large step up only to fall down again rubbing her head. She looked up only to se the bookcase hovering above her head on a slant. Lina, using her brain, got up and taking Slypheil' arm took a dashing run over the tops of the book out into the open.
Obviously the books had made a rather large racket for by now a substantially large crowd had formed in a 'U' around the exit way. All eyes turned upon Lina as she halted laughing nervously still having the knocked out Slypheil's wrist.
"I can explain everything you see ." but before Lina had a chance to continue she was interrupted.
"No need to explain Miss Inverse. They don't need to know. If everyone would be kind enough to please go back to there business, and you young man please come here," a small old lady walked from between two ppls.
She had an old gnarled cane that supported her and she looked now more then 3 feet tall. Her gray hair was pulled back into a bun at the back of her head and her brow was full of wrinkle that told of many thoughts. Her garments where; a dark bleu dress and brown sandals that stuck out under the rim of her dress when she walked.
As she spoke the crowd disappeared slowly until only four were left; the librarian, Lina, Slypheil (who is still out but seems to be coming around) and a sly looking Aaron. As soon as Lina set eyes on Aaron the complete opposite of a love feeling hit her: utter loathing. She made forward as if to lunge at him but stopped as the old woman raised her cane in between them.
"I hope you all know that rules of the library; no outdoor voices, no fighting, no food and defiantly no destruction of property," she said humbly as she smiled. Aaron just stood there smiling with his hand in his pockets and his shades on while Lina stood at a distance growling at him. "And before you rip each others throats out maybe you should tend to your friend, hmm?" the lady offered as she eased back looking at Lina smiling.
Lina looked back and smiled as a sweatdrop appeared on her head. She had completely forgotten about Slypheil who by no was standing up and wobbling. Lina after getting to Slypheil took one of her arms and helped her walked back to where the old lady was. Aaron bowed his head somewhat and looked over the rim of his glasses and chuckled.
"It seems to me it's almost like I'm picking on your poor friend there Miss Inverse. My deepest apologies," he said in a suave manner taking a sweeping bow his bangs coving most of his face. Before Lina could bark back a snide remark the Librarian spoke up.
"I don't know much about the past between you two but I prefer if you are to fight take it outside," she said in a clam voice then with the two looking at her confused the old woman walked up to the hovering bookcase and tapped the side of it with the top of her gnarled wooden cane. With a slow creak the whole case lifted up and like a magnet attracting metal all the books slide up from the floor and back into there place. Lina raised her eye and looked upon the woman in awe. Who was she .?
"Uhhh . Miss .?"
"Call Me Aqua dear . Aunty Aqua," the old woman said kindly walking back to her space. "Oh, are you planning on taking out that book?" she asked tipping to the side to see the book tucked under Lina's arm. Lina raised her eyebrow then nodded after she realized what the librarian was talking about.
"Miss Inverse I may remind you, if you step out of this Library with that book I will be forced to take any action necessary to remove it from your grasp," he said smiling, now back into a standing position.
"That is if you get past me first," said a familiar and unwanted voice from behind Lina. Not being able to fully turn Lina only could look over her shoulder to see Xellos. Standing there looking as equally smug. Lina sighed and gritted her teeth, great one Mazoku is bad enough but when there is too and there both equally annoying it wasn't able to pass by unnoticed.
"Oh my, the mighty Xellos finally decided to show up. I'm surprised, I was starting to think you wouldn't show up at all," Aaron said stuffing his hand into his pockets.
"You out of all people knew I wouldn't miss this event for a lifetime," Xellos remarked back placing his hand on his hips. The vein on Lina's head grew as she stood between their two big egos. She sighed and walked, with some difficulty half dragging half walking with Slypheil, to Aaron who raised an eyebrow
"Here hold her for a second," Lina said dropping Slypheil into Aaron's arms. He looked somewhat surprised at Lina and looked down to the girl he had now in his hands. Lina slowly to big strides over to Xellos then half when began to smile in a maniacal fashion and crack her knuckles. Xellos took a step back as a sweatdrop hovered above his head. He smiled and scratched the back of his head.
"Hehehe, Hello Lina-san. What are you going to do?" he asked
"First I'm going to kick the crap out of you then you are going to tell me what is going on," she said in a plain and simple voice as she waltzed closer to him now appearing to push up her sleeves.
"Well this should be interesting," said Aaron smiling now holding the girl in his arm her head resting on her own chest.
Upon reaching Xellos, Lina began to kick the crap out of him, literally. Aaron looked to the Librarian and smiled. "Quite fun to watch wouldn't you say? I'm surprised Xellos lets her do that but he probably enjoys it more than anything," he said then looking back to the fight and shaking his head somewhat.
"Young man, if I enjoyed it I would have to be a monster," she said but not with an angry tone but more of a hinting tone. They both stood their and watched until Lina had Xellos , who looked like he was thoroughly enjoying himself, in a head lock that wasn't going to break any time soon.
"I DON'T CARE IF I HAVE TO WAIT ALL DAY BUT YOU ARE GOING TO TELL ME WHAT IS GOING ON, XELLOS!!! EVEN IF IT KILLS YOU!!!" shouted Lina only to be shushed by the librarian's loud cough and the peaking of many heads around shelves corners. Now hissing through her teeth Lina continued to scold Xellos. "What is going on here Xellos? You know if I have to use a Laguna Blade on you I won't hesitate."
Xellos side glanced up to Lina and smiled. He knew she was serious, and he preferred not to have to heal over weeks because she lost her temper. Usually she and her little friends found out what was going on before it could happen and ruin a perfect plan but never for Zellas-sama he thought. Everything was going according to plan so far only one last piece left to find . the loosening around his throat made his thoughts stop abruptly as he looked to Aaron who behind his shades he could tell he was disappointed.
"Not this time Aaron," thought Xellos.
"Aww . to bad ... I was just getting worked up about that little secret you've been hiding from me," Aaron's voice said in Xellos head. His only reply was a smirk.
"Seeming that you're little fight is over because here come your friends Miss Lina," said Aunty Aqua as the four figures rounded the corner and were darting towards them.
"Lina, are you alright?!" asked Gourry as he reared up right next to her. Instead of an answer all three of them looked around at the odd scenario. Lina had Xellos in a choky, Aaron was holding a sleeping Slypheil and a small woman was standing, or sitting they couldn't tell, watching them.
"Lina, what's going on?" asked Xellos slowly taking a defensive position as he regarded Aaron. Before Lina could explain they all turned their heads for a small sound like a coo of a dove came from Slypheil's mouth.
Slypheil slowly opened her eyes. The last thing she remembered or felt was a hard object hitting her on the head then she was out . and Miss Lina was there as well. Slowly but surely her eyes cam into focus, after a few seconds she realized she was in someone's arms. She blushed deeply and looked up only to gasp.
"Hello, I can tell by the look on your face you are surprised," said Aaron smugly, "But don't worry I was just looking after you temporarily for Miss Lina. You can go now," he slowly placed Slypheil on the ground and winked at her over the rim of his glasses. She just stared at him for a few second her face crimson then scurried to Lina and the others.
"As I was about to say," said Lina letting go of Xellos who feel down on his rear and sat their staring at them all with a smile on his face, " Something is going on here and Xellos is going to tell us, aren't you Xellos?" she said leaning forward a sly smile carved on her face.
"I would if I could . you see there are some difficulties and technicalities if I were to answer that question," he said sweat dropping as Lina glared at him and pushed her face forward.
Filia rolled her eyes, so typical of a monster. If Miss Lina wasn't so giving to Xellos they might have him on a leash.
"Like what Xellos?"
"Not that's a secret," he said winking wagging his finger and with that he leaned forward and gave Lina a small peck on the cheek and faded away.
Lina just stayed in the same position her face redder than Slypheil's was. Her mouth open and closed repeatedly. Amelia's jaw was down by her feet by the time she computed what was happening. She swiftly looked around to see that Gourry was comforting a shaken Slypheil, Filia was obviously picking Xellos apart in her mind and Zelgadis was still eyeing Aaron. She gave a sigh of relief. That was close .
Aaron gave a whole hearted laugh. That was most enjoyable he looked to the old woman and smiled and she smiled back.
"This seems like the opportune time to leave, wouldn't you say?"
"Of course it is, young man," Aunty Aqua replied.
He respectably tipped he's head to her and turned on his heels and walked off fading around the corner.
***
Boo: *waves frantically* Please don't beat me. I'm sorry for not updating soon I could give u a hundred excuses to throw at you but . down to the point I'm lazy. I can't actually believe I got the chap down today ^_^'' Please review. Well SH is slowly ( I mean it too) coming to an end I'm thinking about continuing with them going to college but before I get ahead of myself I would need to look up some stuff on college because I have no clue what it is like providing I'm only in High School my self. Also I'm going to finish all my other fics after this one before I start on the sequel. *takes a deep breath* that was a lot to say . And thanks to everyone so far who has helped me out by making reviews or e-mailing me with helpful comments especially Aaron.
A searching we will go, A searching we will go
High Ho the Dairy Oh .
The man walked down the barren street with his hands stuffed in his pockets. A small gust of wind was swept up and tossed the dead leaves that had been revealed from under the melted snow. A piece of paper flew by and the wind whipped around his feet. The man stopped in front of a window of the toy shop and looked into his sun glasses and checked his hair. After shrugging he kept on walking down the main street. When he reached the cross roads he waited for the light to turn its light color green to flash. He was approaching a large building with steps leading up to the entrance. Every ten feet there was a pillar and two lion statues that where perched gazing their all seeing eyes down at anyone who passed the building. The lion's mouths where wide open and a serpent like tongues were sticking out, its face resembled much of the one of a gargoyle.
Stopping at the front step with his toes at the end of the block before it rose, he looked up to the top as stayed put as if he took one step on the property he would exploded or the earth would swallow him up. Ravens perched up on the top one head twitched as the man lifted his foot and placed it softly on the coble stone leading up to the building. The crows stirred and took off from their perch and flew away. The man looked up with his shaded eyes and smirked. Just before he was about to raise another foot a voice allured his head to the right, right to the corner where a homeless person sat squatting under the lion statue. The old man looked in his 50's and was coughing frequently in his speech.
"I've never met anyone who scared the crows from there home? Is there someone who even the omen of death fears?" he said silently his voice carrying off in the wind. The man raised his eyebrow then gave a chuckle.
"Maybe, maybe there is old man. But I think it's not me . For the crow fears all even it's own reflection," he said as calmly back before fading from view as if he was never there. The old man smiled while rubbing his hands together.
"I may be as old as these stones but . there are some things that still confuse me," he smiled kindly and looked up as the crows re-perched on the top of the building, labeled: The Public Library.
***
"Coming . I'll get the phone sis," shouted the red head as she bounced on the couch then reached to the phone that was sitting on the stool behind the couch. "Hello .? Yes . This is Lina . No . Luna is busy . No . Yes . I tell her to call you back. Ok, good bye," said Lina as she placed the ringer back down on its hook then sighed and plopped down lying on the couch pulling up a pillow to cuddle with it. Lina had been waiting all morning to for a phone call. She was expecting one from Zelgadis, Amelia or Gourry to tell about the plans to go to the library today. Just .a little . longer . "OH, COME ON AND RING ALREADY!!!" shouted Lina furiously at the phone.
Lina pounced up on the phone causing the table that was holding it up to collapse. She picked up the phone with such haste that she almost pulled the cord out. Slowly she got up with the phone and walked to the other side of the couch and sat down. "Hello?"
"Hello, Miss Lina."
"Xellos??? Why are you phoning me???"
"Oh, about the library didn't you know?"
"Xellos, we never invited you," Lina said dryly into the receiver lying down on the couch.
"I know I invited my self, anyways . Zelgadis-kun will be there to pick you up soon, and you should get ready. I have to go wake up Filia."
"Zelgadis-kun?!?!?! . Wake . Hey Xellos wait!!! Don't ." before Lina could get anything in edge wise the line went dead. Lina quietly and agilely placed the phone down on the receiver. She was so calm it was almost scary. A vein the size of her fist appeared on her forehead as she snapped the phone into. She slowly walked down the hall to the front entrance to get ready. "I'm going to kill Xellos," she said in a humming tune through her teeth. As she disappeared around the corner into the porch Luna leaned forward so she was leaning on the railing above the entrance.
She smiled, and quickly turned on her heel.
"Well I must contact quite a few people, and Lina must have to fix that phone," she said darkly as she walked into the kitchen silently padding over to the window that looked out from the duplex and onto the street. She watched as Lina hoped into the blue truck and followed it with her eyes until it left the lot.
***
Filia tossed in her bed, taking all the covers and sheets with her. She yawned some and gave a little shiver as have her legs where poking out of the edge of the bed. The blonde twitched her tail some and turned again. She gazed at her alarm clock; it was 12:00 o'clock. Filia lifted her upper self up with her left arm and with her right rubbed her sleepy eyes. Filia smacked her lips a couple of times, her mouth being as dry as it was.
"It's so earlier ."
"No it's late into the day," said a voice on from her dresser. Just as Filia turned she saw a pillow flying from the direction blocking her view and smacked her in the face. Un-expecting this Filia feel back. She was in a daze until she realized it was a man's voice that she had heard. When she bolted up she saw none other that .
"Xellos," she hissed then gripped onto her cover and pulled it up covering her self up, only being in a T-shirt and underwear.
"I'm glad to see you too Filia, now . if you don't start ." Xellos head was implanted into the wall behind him as so was Filia's mace that she kept tightly tucked under her bed. After the law of gravity kicked in and the mace fell, Xellos smiled as he smirked at her his eyes permanently shut, for the moment.
"XELLOS!!! WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING IN MY BEDROOOM!!!!" she shouted. Xellos hopped off the dresser and stood up Filia flinching some prepared to take any kind of action at any given time.
"Well, it's good you're awake, because in three minutes Lina and Zelgadis will be at you "grandmother's" house," he said coolly. Filia snapped her head to the clock. She had forgotten all about the library . then . Filia gasped and turned her head to Xellos who was turning to leave. "Don't worry your secret is mine, no one will find out," and with that Xellos disappeared with a flash.
After making sure Xellos was gone Filia jumped up and ripped open her drawers searching frantically for clothes to wear. Filia pulled out a pair of pants and a T-shirt. After pulling her outfit on she skidded to the bathroom.
"Oh, good I look terribly," she said to her self. Filia while brushing her teeth started to comb her hair. As soon as she got it as slick and silky she pulled it back into a pony tail and spit out the toothpaste then took a swig of water. Her process after that consisted of a drink of juice, painting her toe nails, applying some make-up on and then running to the doorway making sure that no one was up then she slipped her dainty feet into the thongs (the sandals -_-).
***
Filia ran down the street. The snow having been melted, she was treading through mud puddles and soggy grass. After a short turn she saw Mrs. Byrster's house in view. She smiled as she reached her porch panting; it had been a long run. With on hand on her knee and the other one reaching up to touch the doorbell just before she reached it the door swung open some what violently. Filia looked up from her bangs and instantly stood up, back straight and drew in a deep breath. At the door was not the usually Priscilla, but instead their stood and old woman. She had a sour look on her face as her lips pierced up and her, white frizzy, hair was pulled back so tight it looked as if the skin on her skull would rip off if pulled any further. Her gray eyes pierced into Filia's.
"What do you want?" she asked Filia while looking at her as if she was scum.
"I-I'm here to see Miss. ."
"Sorry, the Miss' will have no visitors she is very ill," she said with malicious. "Come back next week," she said starting to close the door. Filia would have none of this, Miss Bryster was dear to her and she would not be left alone ill in the house. Filia then stuck her foot in between the door the lady looked up at her and glared. "Do you want me to phone the police, now 'git!"
"Listen I need ."
"Let the girl in Nancy, I know her," said a frail voice from behind the old woman (A good time to put in the song "Viva forever"). As soon as the voice rang out the old lady dropped her angry look and replaced it with a worried look. She speed around and ran to Miss Bryster. Filia the door now fully opened gasped at the old lady she had never seen before.
The woman was bent up and clutched a blue quilt that hung from her shoulder. Her eyes were sunken in and turned almost white. Her knuckles that clasped the blanket were white with a tint of purple to match the face of her skin. The woman's cough sounded raspy and when she breathed in she struggled and her eyes dropped some. Her body appeared to sway with the wind, which came in from the door, like a blade of grass in a field.
"Miss, you shouldn't be out of you room! You sick as it is. Please come with me," Nancy said holding Miss Bryster up and scurrying her slowly to the stairs.
"I will I will, don't be so worried," she said and gave a look to Filia and smiled some what nodding, "Just let the girl stay."
"Yes, yes now come along," she said finally as they both disappeared around the corner Miss Bryster still smiling at Filia.
Hot tears swelled up in Filia's eyes as she fells back against the wall. The only person she had really loved in her whole life was fading always before her eyes. Filia slid to the ground burying her face into her knees. She would always remember those white eyes forever . even if it was the last time she saw them .
***
~~~** (Turn off the music .) **~~~
***
The car slowly pulled up into the drive way. The sound of crushing rocks crawled up from under the tiers. Zelgadis placed his rocky palm on the steering wheel and pushed on the horn symbol. About two minutes after the horn's sound died away they saw Filia pad out onto the porch and make her way unusually slowly to the car her head bowed. Lina raised an eyebrow.
"Hey what's the matter Fi???" Lina asked quizzically. Filia snapped up her head and smiled with a questionable look on her face.
"Oh nothing .," she said lifting her self into the tuck climbing over Lina's knees and sat her self between Zel and Lina. In the back seat, from left to right, were Slypheil, Amelia and Gourry they all greeted each other in a sleepy and more or less enthusiastic hellos. After so being done a rather impatient Zel pressed on the gas and shot out of the cul-de-sac taking a sharp turn to the left squishing everyone up against the window or on the person next to them.
"ZEL!!! WATCH IT!!!" yelled Lina from under Filia.
***
Lina sighed as she closed the book shut. No avail. This was a waste of time she thought laying her head on the book.
"Come one Miss Lina you can't give up yet. We haven't even started to look that hard," said Slypheil as she placed a pile of about ten books right in front of Lina. Lina looked at the books and her face became all droopy.
"AAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHH!!!! We'll never get this done! It will take us a life time to get through all these books!!!" shouted Lina pulling out her hair. Slypheil placed her hand on Lina trying to quiet her while everyone in the library glared at her.
The library was as big and scary as it's outside. The book cases almost touched the roof and big pillars held up a domed roof in the middle while paintings from classic books. Rows and rows of oak shelves filled the room and tables where scattered among the blank spaces in the library. Also in the far left at the back was a pit surrounded by plants it was the children's books section. At the front right when you walked in from the rotating door was a large desk that had a computer that was the only thing visible from the high counter top. No one could locate the librarian so they all split up into groups to find anything that might help them.
Slypheil had gone with Lina, Gourry was with Zelgadis and Filia was with Amelia. They had assigned each other places to purge. Zel and Gourry had taken all the right back while Slypheil and Lina took the whole front and Filia and Amelia took the right back. This had proved some what useful. They had now covered almost 1/5 of the library quicker then they thought they would.
"Miss Filia how long do you think it will take to find the right book? What are we really looking for?" asked Amelia as she yawned and stretched out her arms while pouring over her test book called "History: Legends, Truth or not?". Filia sighed and plopped down in the chair next to Amelia overwhelmed in exhaustion.
"I don't know Amelia . I'm not quit sure that it even exists ."
"What exactly are we looking for Miss Filia?" Filia sighed some and then placed her book down sating into the words.
"Some kind of book .any kind of book that might give us information on our enemy . or his power . anything that has a slightest trace of how to defeat him would be fine ."
"But Miss Filia . didn't he say not to look for anything or he would . h- hurt are families ." said Amelia as a lump formed into her throat. The thought of losing another family member was so hard. She jumped when she felt a hand placed upon hers.
"Don't worry Amelia. We'll find the book before anything happens," said Filia soothingly. Amelia smiled whole heartedly then turned her head to look behind her.
"How do you think Mr. Zelgadis and Mr. Gourry are doing?" the dragon rolled her eyes.
"I hope they actually started. But knowing those two Zelgadis will be looking for his cure and Gourry will be . well Gourry will be doing something Gourryish ."
***
Zelgadis's eyes darted to and fro for any book, he knew that they where supposed to be looking for something that may help them in any up coming battle but his mind was now on his cure. He pulled out book that had any close connections to his curse: "How to make your very own golem", "Science and transfiguration" and "Rocks and there properties". He had left Gourry back a little while ago saying that it was good that they should spilt up. Zel was just happy because if he was with any of the others they would have figured out what he was really looking for. It made him angry as he though of it walking down the aisle, it was as if they didn't want him to find his cure when they knew he wanted it so much. Zelgadis came to a halt and clenched his teeth and balled his fists. What if that was it . they didn't want him to change . where they using him . he was useful in this body of course . but . but .but .
Zelgadis slammed his fist against the shelf in anger. How could they be so selfish just thinking of themselves? But before Zel could think of it any longer to make him self angrier the shelf gave a wobble, apparently he had hit it to hard . it was tipping. Zel panicked, it wasn't going to be easy to get out of this one. He rushed over to the other side and with his strength held the books case from falling over and causing a case of dominos in the library. He let out a large sigh that was close.
At that moment Gourry rounded the corner carrying a book or two. Upon observing Zelgadis he raised he's eyebrow then laughed.
"Zel the library is no place to be stretching. If you want to do that you should go to the gym." For once in his life Zelgadis was glad that Gourry's brain was the size of a peanut. "Well anyways I think I found some stuff that might be useful," he said cheerfully looking very proud of himself. Zelgadis's ear perked and he walked over to Gourry and took the books. He looked at the covers.
"I should have known better," he said mumbling to himself, "Gourry?"
"Ya?"
"How is 'How to Cook Squid 20 Different Ways' going to help us?" Zel said showing the cover to Gourry pointing at it.
"Oops, I guessed I picked the wrong book," he said shrugging taking the book and tossing it behind him. Zel stared at him his mouth open slightly he then rolled he's eyes and walked passed Gourry his hand on his hips.
"Well let's get looking for that book, what was it called anyways?"
"Oh ya . it was called . 'History: The War of the . what Xellos is Fall'."
***
"Miss Lina have you found anything yet?" inquired Slypheil looking down from the stepping ladder she was on to Lina who was scanning the bottom shelves with her eyes.
"Not yet, I'll tell u if I see something," she said not even bothering to lift her head. She was practically dragging her self down the aisle her head lolled as she trotted forward and her stomach gave a call out in yearning. Lina moaned as she feel to her knees on of her arm was on the shelf to the left while her other hand held her stomach. "So . Hungry ."
"Don't worry Miss Lina, we'll get some food at supper time but it's only ." Slypheil looked down at her watch quickly, "3:47, so it's almost time." Lina heaved a sigh and look to her side scowling somewhat then her gaze dropped. About two seconds from the moment Lina was able to register what she saw and pull the book from its place on the second bottom shelf. She took a deep breath and blew some of the dust off then rubbed the rest clean with her sleeve.
"This is . this is . it .!" Slypheil heard Lina's voice mumbling something and peered down over her shoulder to see Lina crouched over a book.
"Miss Lina . are you alright?"
A man faded into the corner. He gazed straight at the two women then shook his head while smiling sardonically his razor-sharp teeth shone out of the shadow. He melted back into the shadows then re-appeared directly behind the case. Leisurely he raised his hand to his chest level and placed it softly spread out on the books and with and small chuckle gave a push.
Lina looked up to Slypheil her whole facial expression changed. A smile of triumph was on her face and her adrenalin seemed to be back up. Then her brow furrowed as she noticed a book was slowly slipping out of its place forward . the whole case was falling.
"Slypheil!!! Get off!!!" But it was too late before Slypheil could put action to Lina's words she had fallen off the ladder. Lina rushed over to her the book tucked under her arm. "Are you ok Slypheil?" she asked with a worried tone kneeling next to her friend. Slypheil nodded wincing somewhat then sat up smiling
"I'm fine, don't worry about ." before Slypheil could finish her sentence she was thumped fairly hard on the head by another book and she was out. Lina raised an eyebrow but before she could even comment two other books slide out and fell out her. She quickly turned and gasped to see the book case and the books come down fast on them. Lina threw her hands up which wrapped around her head as she crouched down over Slypheil.
The books flooded off the case and collapsed around them and on them. Lina closed her eyes tightly and clenched her teeth for the oncoming heavy book case that was likely to break her back. After what seemed like forever she slowly open one eye then the other. While un-tensing and sitting up, sending the books that where covering her sliding lower down the pile, her attitude changed from anxiety into death rage in a millisecond. Not realizing that she should be crushed by now Lina took a large step up only to fall down again rubbing her head. She looked up only to se the bookcase hovering above her head on a slant. Lina, using her brain, got up and taking Slypheil' arm took a dashing run over the tops of the book out into the open.
Obviously the books had made a rather large racket for by now a substantially large crowd had formed in a 'U' around the exit way. All eyes turned upon Lina as she halted laughing nervously still having the knocked out Slypheil's wrist.
"I can explain everything you see ." but before Lina had a chance to continue she was interrupted.
"No need to explain Miss Inverse. They don't need to know. If everyone would be kind enough to please go back to there business, and you young man please come here," a small old lady walked from between two ppls.
She had an old gnarled cane that supported her and she looked now more then 3 feet tall. Her gray hair was pulled back into a bun at the back of her head and her brow was full of wrinkle that told of many thoughts. Her garments where; a dark bleu dress and brown sandals that stuck out under the rim of her dress when she walked.
As she spoke the crowd disappeared slowly until only four were left; the librarian, Lina, Slypheil (who is still out but seems to be coming around) and a sly looking Aaron. As soon as Lina set eyes on Aaron the complete opposite of a love feeling hit her: utter loathing. She made forward as if to lunge at him but stopped as the old woman raised her cane in between them.
"I hope you all know that rules of the library; no outdoor voices, no fighting, no food and defiantly no destruction of property," she said humbly as she smiled. Aaron just stood there smiling with his hand in his pockets and his shades on while Lina stood at a distance growling at him. "And before you rip each others throats out maybe you should tend to your friend, hmm?" the lady offered as she eased back looking at Lina smiling.
Lina looked back and smiled as a sweatdrop appeared on her head. She had completely forgotten about Slypheil who by no was standing up and wobbling. Lina after getting to Slypheil took one of her arms and helped her walked back to where the old lady was. Aaron bowed his head somewhat and looked over the rim of his glasses and chuckled.
"It seems to me it's almost like I'm picking on your poor friend there Miss Inverse. My deepest apologies," he said in a suave manner taking a sweeping bow his bangs coving most of his face. Before Lina could bark back a snide remark the Librarian spoke up.
"I don't know much about the past between you two but I prefer if you are to fight take it outside," she said in a clam voice then with the two looking at her confused the old woman walked up to the hovering bookcase and tapped the side of it with the top of her gnarled wooden cane. With a slow creak the whole case lifted up and like a magnet attracting metal all the books slide up from the floor and back into there place. Lina raised her eye and looked upon the woman in awe. Who was she .?
"Uhhh . Miss .?"
"Call Me Aqua dear . Aunty Aqua," the old woman said kindly walking back to her space. "Oh, are you planning on taking out that book?" she asked tipping to the side to see the book tucked under Lina's arm. Lina raised her eyebrow then nodded after she realized what the librarian was talking about.
"Miss Inverse I may remind you, if you step out of this Library with that book I will be forced to take any action necessary to remove it from your grasp," he said smiling, now back into a standing position.
"That is if you get past me first," said a familiar and unwanted voice from behind Lina. Not being able to fully turn Lina only could look over her shoulder to see Xellos. Standing there looking as equally smug. Lina sighed and gritted her teeth, great one Mazoku is bad enough but when there is too and there both equally annoying it wasn't able to pass by unnoticed.
"Oh my, the mighty Xellos finally decided to show up. I'm surprised, I was starting to think you wouldn't show up at all," Aaron said stuffing his hand into his pockets.
"You out of all people knew I wouldn't miss this event for a lifetime," Xellos remarked back placing his hand on his hips. The vein on Lina's head grew as she stood between their two big egos. She sighed and walked, with some difficulty half dragging half walking with Slypheil, to Aaron who raised an eyebrow
"Here hold her for a second," Lina said dropping Slypheil into Aaron's arms. He looked somewhat surprised at Lina and looked down to the girl he had now in his hands. Lina slowly to big strides over to Xellos then half when began to smile in a maniacal fashion and crack her knuckles. Xellos took a step back as a sweatdrop hovered above his head. He smiled and scratched the back of his head.
"Hehehe, Hello Lina-san. What are you going to do?" he asked
"First I'm going to kick the crap out of you then you are going to tell me what is going on," she said in a plain and simple voice as she waltzed closer to him now appearing to push up her sleeves.
"Well this should be interesting," said Aaron smiling now holding the girl in his arm her head resting on her own chest.
Upon reaching Xellos, Lina began to kick the crap out of him, literally. Aaron looked to the Librarian and smiled. "Quite fun to watch wouldn't you say? I'm surprised Xellos lets her do that but he probably enjoys it more than anything," he said then looking back to the fight and shaking his head somewhat.
"Young man, if I enjoyed it I would have to be a monster," she said but not with an angry tone but more of a hinting tone. They both stood their and watched until Lina had Xellos , who looked like he was thoroughly enjoying himself, in a head lock that wasn't going to break any time soon.
"I DON'T CARE IF I HAVE TO WAIT ALL DAY BUT YOU ARE GOING TO TELL ME WHAT IS GOING ON, XELLOS!!! EVEN IF IT KILLS YOU!!!" shouted Lina only to be shushed by the librarian's loud cough and the peaking of many heads around shelves corners. Now hissing through her teeth Lina continued to scold Xellos. "What is going on here Xellos? You know if I have to use a Laguna Blade on you I won't hesitate."
Xellos side glanced up to Lina and smiled. He knew she was serious, and he preferred not to have to heal over weeks because she lost her temper. Usually she and her little friends found out what was going on before it could happen and ruin a perfect plan but never for Zellas-sama he thought. Everything was going according to plan so far only one last piece left to find . the loosening around his throat made his thoughts stop abruptly as he looked to Aaron who behind his shades he could tell he was disappointed.
"Not this time Aaron," thought Xellos.
"Aww . to bad ... I was just getting worked up about that little secret you've been hiding from me," Aaron's voice said in Xellos head. His only reply was a smirk.
"Seeming that you're little fight is over because here come your friends Miss Lina," said Aunty Aqua as the four figures rounded the corner and were darting towards them.
"Lina, are you alright?!" asked Gourry as he reared up right next to her. Instead of an answer all three of them looked around at the odd scenario. Lina had Xellos in a choky, Aaron was holding a sleeping Slypheil and a small woman was standing, or sitting they couldn't tell, watching them.
"Lina, what's going on?" asked Xellos slowly taking a defensive position as he regarded Aaron. Before Lina could explain they all turned their heads for a small sound like a coo of a dove came from Slypheil's mouth.
Slypheil slowly opened her eyes. The last thing she remembered or felt was a hard object hitting her on the head then she was out . and Miss Lina was there as well. Slowly but surely her eyes cam into focus, after a few seconds she realized she was in someone's arms. She blushed deeply and looked up only to gasp.
"Hello, I can tell by the look on your face you are surprised," said Aaron smugly, "But don't worry I was just looking after you temporarily for Miss Lina. You can go now," he slowly placed Slypheil on the ground and winked at her over the rim of his glasses. She just stared at him for a few second her face crimson then scurried to Lina and the others.
"As I was about to say," said Lina letting go of Xellos who feel down on his rear and sat their staring at them all with a smile on his face, " Something is going on here and Xellos is going to tell us, aren't you Xellos?" she said leaning forward a sly smile carved on her face.
"I would if I could . you see there are some difficulties and technicalities if I were to answer that question," he said sweat dropping as Lina glared at him and pushed her face forward.
Filia rolled her eyes, so typical of a monster. If Miss Lina wasn't so giving to Xellos they might have him on a leash.
"Like what Xellos?"
"Not that's a secret," he said winking wagging his finger and with that he leaned forward and gave Lina a small peck on the cheek and faded away.
Lina just stayed in the same position her face redder than Slypheil's was. Her mouth open and closed repeatedly. Amelia's jaw was down by her feet by the time she computed what was happening. She swiftly looked around to see that Gourry was comforting a shaken Slypheil, Filia was obviously picking Xellos apart in her mind and Zelgadis was still eyeing Aaron. She gave a sigh of relief. That was close .
Aaron gave a whole hearted laugh. That was most enjoyable he looked to the old woman and smiled and she smiled back.
"This seems like the opportune time to leave, wouldn't you say?"
"Of course it is, young man," Aunty Aqua replied.
He respectably tipped he's head to her and turned on his heels and walked off fading around the corner.
***
Boo: *waves frantically* Please don't beat me. I'm sorry for not updating soon I could give u a hundred excuses to throw at you but . down to the point I'm lazy. I can't actually believe I got the chap down today ^_^'' Please review. Well SH is slowly ( I mean it too) coming to an end I'm thinking about continuing with them going to college but before I get ahead of myself I would need to look up some stuff on college because I have no clue what it is like providing I'm only in High School my self. Also I'm going to finish all my other fics after this one before I start on the sequel. *takes a deep breath* that was a lot to say . And thanks to everyone so far who has helped me out by making reviews or e-mailing me with helpful comments especially Aaron.