Author's note: I do not claim to own any of the characters ^_^ they are a creation that is best kept by it's author. I hope he might read this one day and get inspired to write a sequel to Chrno Crusade.
If you have not read the manga, do so!!! It's good. ^_^ this fic is based roughly off the manga, interspersing some stuff inside of it, so if you're confused that's why.
Denizens of Darkness, Harbringers of LightA Chrno Crusade fanfic by Nightelfcrawler@yahoo.com
***
Act II
Chapter Seven: CelebrationThe door slowly opened to Sister Kate's office, and the headmistress of the monetary glanced up to see Chrno's tousled purple hair get run through his fingers as he raised an eyebrow at her. He had put on some spare clothes Remington had loaned him, which were a bit baggy around his slender frame, but fit decently while his others were washed. A simple pair of black pants and a white shirt with black suspenders still seemed glamorous on his tall frame. "You asked to see me, Sister Kate." He greeted quietly.
Sister Kate smiled and indicated for him to enter with one hand. She watched as he politely closed the door behind him, and stepped over to the chair beside her desk. Though he was fully back to his whole self, she couldn't help but marvel that he still seemed much the same, aside from the older appearance. Yet, she had witnessed him single-handedly take on a great number of demons, channel a demi-god through his body, set free Joshua and lived to tell the tale, none the changed from the experience, it seemed, aside from a bit more cheerful and appreciative of his life.
She shook her head in amazement. To deny the fact that he had earned their trust would only show their ignorance and prejudice against what he could not help. After all, he could not help being what he was.
She faced him, as he sat, a bit nervously, in front of her in one of the many chairs set out before her desk for guests. "Chrno… there is nothing in this world that I can give you, or say to you, to thank you for everything you've done for us." His smile looked a bit bashful as he averted his eyes, scratching his nose a bit. Funny…she had never noticed nuances about him before like that. "However, I feel some token of our appreciation is necessary, if not to thank you, to prove to others that you are an honest, and trustworthy person."
She reached down and pulled a small velvet pouch out of her desk, and placed it on the mahogany surface in front of him. "I know you cannot hold this, but at least take it into your possession."
He slowly took the bag, and drew it open, and gently let it's contents slide out, onto the cloth the bag sat on.
It was a very ornate silver cross, with intricate designs carved into it, and set with several diamonds around the edges. It glittered brightly in the light, and sent rainbows dancing on the ceiling. It appeared to have been hewn out of light, and polished brightly. His eyes were riveted on it, wide and understanding.
Sister Kate knew the explanation wasn't necessary, but she felt it had to be said just to fill the silence, and complete the gift. "It belonged to Mary Magdalene, and was blessed by the Pope when she was ordained as a holy woman. It was left in our care when she left. It is a treasured relic of our Order, and I can think of nothing more appropriate to give you as a token of our thanks. It will ensure that wherever you go, you will be honored for your deeds. I will ensure that all know this was given to you as to honor your generous actions. No branch of our Order will turn you away." Her smile was genuine, and kind as she watched tears form in his eyes as his hand hovered over the cross.
Holy water, and blessed items harmed and burned demons. She had see his injuries before when such things happened, and it saddened her to think that he still wouldn't be able to touch something that belonged to the single most important person of his life.
She was startled then, to watch as his hand gently rested on top of it, his eyes closed, and then a warm smile crossed his face, as he gently picked the treasured cross up, and held it in his hands. "How…?" She breathed, astonished that the holy relic was not harming him, but her words stopped short, recalling what Rosette had reported to her several days before… Kate suddenly had a very startled thought, and glanced at Chrno sharply.
The cross went around his neck, and fell there, glittering against his chest, as he pressed a hand to it. "Thank you…I will cherish it forever." And as she saw his genuine smile, she knew that it was true.
**
"Chrno?" The light knock at his door followed by the wood slowly creaking open as Rosette slowly opened it. She stepped in, daintily as she could in high heels, which was still rather awkward considering, for she was ordained in her best, a rich royal blue gown, elegant and slim, her hair done up in soft ringlets falling down her face, and even some white gloves on her hands. She felt like a queen, done up in make-up and fragrance, but her curiosity as to how her partner in crime was doing with his tie got the better of her.
She stepped into his room, and heard his muttered frustrations as she poked her head into the nook where the mirror was mounted on the wall by the bed. "Having trouble?" She smiled sweetly, as Chrno turned his head around to blink at her.
"Um, yeah.. how on earth do you get this thing on?" Chrno had the formal bow tie in a knotted mess, and looked rather flustered. For the demon who had defeated Ion, it was quite the ironic situation. "My regular one is much easier to deal with…"
Rosette walked forward primly, and shook her head amused, her gloved hands going to expertly put the tie on. "Silly. You'd think you would have learned to wear these things in your long years of experience.
He just rolled his eyes. "I never attended formal occasions."
"Obviously not." She finished and took a step back to examine him. He looked very dashing indeed. Remington had taken the time to get him fitted for a fine white suit, complete with a matching blue cumber bun and tie to compliment her dress. His dark hair hung loosely around his shoulders, and stood out against the white strongly. He had removed the red headband he normally wore, and his eyes were bright and eager just as hers were.
"You look great." She patted his chest fondly with a hand and turned about heading for the door. "Sister Kate wants to talk to us before we go downstairs."
"Right." Chrno fell in step beside her, tugging at his collar a bit. "I'm not sure this will be entirely easy…"
"Why not?" She glanced over at him.
"Well.." he trailed off, and his unspoken thoughts were still clear. The entire representatives of the Order from all over the world were attending, and all of them knew about the incident, or had been there. Their attention would be riveted on the individuals responsible for the whole thing. He shook his head to clear it of those thoughts, and glanced at her with a smile. "You look beautiful."
She felt her cheeks redden, and she stiffened a bit, at the unexpected praise. "Ah, well… half of it is make-up you know."
"I think you underestimate yourself." He murmured in a soft voice, but she pretended not to hear, as she paused at Sister Kate's office door, and pushed it open after rapping once.
Sister Kate was seated at her desk as usual, however, for the first time since the pair had known her, she wasn't wearing her habit, but a nice conservative gown, with her hair down.
Rosette's eyes widened, and her mouth opened in something of surprise, but she smiled after regaining her composure, biting back the taunting comment she had prepared. "Ah, Sister Kate! You look good!" Chrno smiled in agreement and nodded once as well.
Sister Kate smiled in acknowledgement and inclined her head once. "Thank you." She stood and approached towards them, smiling still. "Thank you for coming here first." She glanced at Chrno once then back to Rosette and sighed slightly. "The reason I asked you here is… I have a request to make of you." Her eyes lifted to meet Chrnos directly.
Chrno blinked, and glanced down at Rosette, confused, but nodded once. "Yes?"
Sister Kate closed her eyes once then opened them. "I know this may sound presumptuous of me, but I feel that it's necessary that the people know who it was who saved us."
Rosette scratched her head. "I think they all know it…"
Sister Kate shook her head. "They know whom, but not necessarily do they associate that with what." She glanced back at the taller figure. "I would request that you go as your genuine self to the celebration, so that they can pay tribute to who you really are, and not a façade you must put on to keep others from being uneasy around you."
Rosette's eyes widened at that, and she glanced up at Chrno with a raised eyebrow, as the demon looked slightly taken aback.
Chrno seemed to consider that, and finally spoke quietly. " Are you sure that's necessary? I would think it might cause more trouble and unease than is expected at a celebration."
Sister Kate smiled lightly. "It will help them realize that they needn't be so stereotypical all the time… that not all demons are bad people."
"But most are dangerous." Chrno gently reminded her. "I don't want to give them false security in thinking that I'm the prime example of what they can expect out of the rest."
"I'm sure they won't make that mistake, don't worry."
Chrno inclined his head, but still looked very doubtful. "Very well…"
"Rosette… Why don't you go make sure everyone is ready." Sister Kate had that look in her eyes, that said she was up to something, so Rosette shrugged, and didn't argue, heading outside. However, she was curious as to Sister Kate's reasoning…
She entered the top foyer into the center of the entryway to the hall that had been converted into a ballroom. The decorations had taken days to arrange, and fresh flowers, streamers, sparkling and glittering lights adorned every railing, hung from the chandeliers, and adorned the tables laden full with food.
People were milling about down below, laughing, sipping their drinks and socializing, as a small symphonic group played soft music to lighten the atmosphere, and the children's choir sang uplifting songs. It was quite a beautiful scene, and Rosette grinned, leaning over the railing watching everything below.
"You look less rag-tag than usual." Came a slight mocking voice from the side, and Rosette instinctively stiffened as she glanced over seeing Stella approaching. The heiress was adorned in a sparkling ruby evening gown, and her jewelry glittered with brilliance and wealth. He hair was done simple, but elegant, and her make-up much the same. She looked just as haughty as ever, but a sparkle adorned her eyes. "I never thought that dirt would come off of your nose."
"Shut it." Rosette growled a bit, but lightened up as Stella laughed. "I'm just glad this is all over."
"For now." Stella leaned next to her, watching the scene below with her, with troubled eyes. "I'm sure it's far from over."
"Yeah…" Rosette agreed, her hand absently going to where the clock used to hang about her neck, forgetting she had given it back to Chrno at the end of the previous day. He had accepted it back seriously, and tucked it away for safekeeping, since he no longer needed it.
Stella saw that motion, and her eyes studied Rosette's face. "Are you sad about it?"
"Somewhat…" Rosette grudgingly admitted with a smile. "I was so used to him constantly at my side, dependant on me… and I on him… It's going to be weird not having that anymore."
"I doubt it will change much, regarding your closeness though." Stella smiled warmly.
It was ironic. The woman had hated Chrno upon their first meeting, but as she grew to know the rag-tag group, she accepted and acknowledged him as a caring person, and finally a friend. And sometimes more… Rosette thought, feeling slightly green around the edges thinking about her pedophilic ways.
"You two…there's something there that goes beyond a physical device linking you. I knew that the moment I saw you two laughing together…" She smiled shaking her head.
Rosette grinned a bit, trying to hide the red blush that crept up the side of her cheeks. "Maybe so…."
"Rosette!" Azmaria jogged up, her long lavender hair curled and pinned up around her face, curled and bouncing as she approached in a lovely frilly dress that complemented her colors. "You look beautiful! Stella too!"
Rosette grinned and straightened up. "You too Azmaria… Come on, let's go dig Joshua up and make him dance with us!"
Stella watched with a smile as the two girls ran down the stairs, and began milling about the crowd. They were so energetic…
Footsteps made her turn her head to the side, and her eyes widened slightly in surprise as Chrno stepped out of the hall, looking a bit uncomfortable, as he tugged at the bow tie about his neck yet again.
She straightened a bit, watching, as he stopped glancing over the railing next to her, his long ears twitching a bit in uncertainty, his hands folded absently at his back. His wings were furled a bit, as not to clutter his white suit much, and he had made sure he appeared as presentable as he could, even having filed his claw-like nails down a bit as not to snag on anyone's fine dress this night.
It still felt strange to her, observing him in his genuine appearance, and though she had come to realize Ion was the one to blame for her tragic past, seeing Chrno as a demon still was slightly unnerving to her.
She sighed a bit and shook her head. She had to get past this foolish fear, for she knew better of course, by now.
He stood in silence next to her, his deep eyes watching the movement below with a flurry of mixed emotions. Stella still found it difficult to look him straight in the eyes at the moment, but she also knew why Sister Kate had requested he attend as he really was, rather than his human guise. Though she couldn't say she felt completely comfortable, she was going to make the effort.
"You look quite handsome tonight." She finally spoke up, a
small teasing smile on her lips as he glanced her way, a small flush creeping
up his cheeks at the complement, and it was clear his thoughts were straying to
her usual coddling of him, which of course were not entirely appropriate
anymore. "But don't tell anyone that I ever gave a demon praise." She turned
back, leaning over the railing next to him."
"Right. Not a word." He answered, with a like smile and turned his head back. His emotions were mixed now, for more than one reason. Technically, he was free to do as he liked now. But what would he choose? He had no other reason to go about in the world on his own, he had ties here, yet at the same time, he did want to go out, explore… But he didn't wish to abandon Rosette, Joshua and Azmaria either. They were his family now, more so now, than ever perhaps.
"They'll miss you if you leave." Stella spoke quietly, seeming to read his thoughts well enough. "You four are a terrible trouble for those around you when together, yet we all would despair at seeing you split."
He chuckled at that. "Yes… I think you're right. Somehow being away from all this chaos seems rather boring."
"Well then." Stella stood up and clapped her hands. "I shall only ask this once."
He turned his head to blink at her, not certain what she was
about to ask.
"Dance with me for the first dance this evening." She held her gloved hand out expectantly, much to his surprise, and lifted her nose in the air like a lady would.
After a few moments pause, Chrno stood straight, and like a gentleman, bowed lightly to her, and took her hand into his arm as was proper, and began to lead her down the stairs.
It was a grand scene below, as people began to notice the demon arriving in their midst, escorting one of the richest ladies in the city down the stairs, as if it were the most casual thing in the world. Everyone's eyes slid over to them, from the guests to the food servers, and even the musicians as their music wound down as they ended their songs.
Slight murmurs could be heard, and it was clear that the tension level rose slightly in the room, yet the two at the center seemed to ignore all of that easily.
As Chrno and Stella reached the bottom step, Stella's hair swaying lightly from side to side, and Chrno's tail matched to suit. People all about the dance floor began to move back in order to give the pair the appropriate room, as it was clear they prepared to dance. Chrno's ears picked up the snickering of Rosette, and a few choice comments about his choice in women, and his cheeks flushed red with embarrassment.
Stella's face was passive, but Chrno glanced over and could see her jaw working as she fought not to snap back at the smart-mouthed sister, as they stood in the center of attention. She turned to face him, grasping his hands firmly in hers. "You do know how to dance, I assume. Judging from last time, I'm not so sure I might end up in a tangle on the floor." She murmured low, as the musicians struck up an appropriate waltz for the two.
He coughed a bit, looking slightly embarrassed. "Well…I think I can manage. And if not, Rosette will surely pummel me later if I mess up."
She snorted once. "Wonderful." But without further ado, she took initiative, and began to lead for him.
Surprisingly, he wasn't lying when he said he could figure it out. It was a great difference from the carnival when he and Rosette had spent the majority of the dance avoiding each others feet. Soon enough, he had the rhythm down, and was leading her with finesse and smooth motion, and took her by surprise, but some amusement as they danced around the floor. They made a striking pair, visually, for both were about the same height, tall and graceful, one with short hair, one with long, one in red, one in white. They swept along, everyone's eyes on them as they danced, until the song ended, and they came to a stop, and were applauded politely by their audience.
Chrno bowed slightly. "My lady, thank you." He said formally, which made Stella put a hand to her mouth to hide a titter. "It has been a pleasure dancing with you."
"And you, Chrno." She said with a smile, then nodded over to Rosette and Azmaria who were looking eager on the sidelines, with wide eyes. "And now I believe you have two young women who wish to get a cut of the action as well. Best not disappoint them, or I'll never hear the end of it."
He rolled his eyes lightly, making sure they didn't see. "You know Rosette… for dancing with you before her, I'm already in big trouble anyway." Stella laughed and inclined her head, then moved off to the side. Chrno turned, and immediately had Rosette stalk up to him, scowling. He sweat dropped a bit, took a step back, and tried hard not to lean back, though she was shorter than he. "Y..yes?"
"You'd better dance with me now, Chrno." She warned, grabbing both his hands, and dragging him, staggering, into the center of the ballroom floor. There were some laughs from the side, for the small blonde girl dragging the tall dark demon was quite an amusing sight indeed.
As the two began to intertwine steps, Chrno became more aware of everyone's eyes bearing down on him…despite his actions, it was clear they still were highly prejudiced and mistrustful of any demon, for a good reason true, but nonetheless, he wondered how long it would take them to become accustomed to him tonight. Their fear was generally justified, but still he felt awkward as he was.
"You look pretty dashing tonight ya know." Rosette broke into his thoughts, and he focused his mind on the present and smiled at her.
He smiled down at her, and took time to admire her appearance. She looked nicer than he had ever seen her yet, she was growing to be a lady. "You are blossoming into quite a beauty yourself." He said smoothly, as he dipped her down low, one arm out to balance, along with a wing. She blushed and as he pulled her back up, he could see she was smiling.
"Chrno… I've been meaning to ask you…" Rosette asked, when they finally finished their dance, and stepped to the side as others stepped in to dance. They made their way to the refreshment table, where Chrno politely gathered some punch for Rosette, and they stood to the side, away from everyone else. "…what do you plan on doing from here out?" Her eyes lifted to study his face, and he could see apprehension in the blue orbs studying him.
He shook his head, taking a sip of the sweet red beverage, and watching as Joshua bowed and dragged a half-stumbling Azmaria out onto the floor. "I haven't given it much of a thought yet." He answered truthfully. "To be honest, I'm still recovering from everything… it seems for the first time in my life, I can relax, and enjoy everything around me. I don't want to rush and ruin it."
She grinned at that and nodded. "I thought you'd say that… and that's why Joshua and I have come up with an idea."
"An idea?" He asked, raising an eyebrow with curiosity.
She grinned wider, and he had the sneaking suspicion that he might not want to know what it was. "Yeah… well you know how we always talked about going out and exploring the world…?" At his nod, she continued. "Well, we figured that now everything has settled down, we're back together, and the crisis is over, why not go and do it!"
He blinked, and found himself not all that surprised that she had suggested it, and to be honest, he found himself actually looking forward to the idea. He smiled and glanced out at the dance floor again. "It sounds like fun, but what would Sister Kate say?"
"Bah, she'd be glad to get rid of us, you know that… besides, I already asked her, and she said that having us go on 'field representative missions' to other Order headquarters through the world would be a good idea."
Chrno had to chuckle at that. "Figures."
"What was that?" Rosette's eyes glittered dangerously.
"Ah, nothing!" he quickly waved his hand to soothe her. "I think it's a good idea."
"Right, we hoped you'd like it." She grinned. "It just wouldn't be right without you joining us. After all, we all made the promise to become adventurers way back when we were kids."
He smiled fondly and nodded, feeling slightly out of place at the moment, since he was so far older than they. "Seeing the world sounds like a great idea."
"Great! So we'll head out tomorrow." She drained her punch and slammed the cup down, startling Chrno, and the caterer.
"T…tomorrow?" He sputtered a bit surprised. He had only been awake a day and already she wants to leave?
"Sure, why not." Rosette shrugged. "We deserve a vacation, and there's no need to stick around here much longer!"
"Well true, but… I don't think that we could find tickets to wherever we're going so soon…"
"What do we need tickets for?" She asked, with an evil glint at him.
Chrno sweatdropped, and had the sudden sneaking position that he had just been upgraded from Baggage boy to Taxi Cab…. "Ano…."
"Hey, don't complain." She poked his chest with a finger, squinting up at him. "Without us you'd still be locked up in that grave, wallowing in self-pity."
He sighed, and for a moment, Rosette looked upset as if she'd gone too far in joking, but as he smiled back at her, she relaxed a bit. "True… there is that." He closed his eyes, and put a hand on top of her head with a smile. "Thank you."
She just smiled back, and wrapped an arm around his waist. "I don't know what we would have done without you, Chrno… just think, Ion probably still would have chosen Joshua… and if we hadn't woken you…" She trailed off.
He shook his head however. "If you hadn't woken me, he would have. There's no way he would have let me sleep through all that." He opened his eyes again, watching the dancers. "Things happened the way they were destined to."
Rosette nodded once, just as Joshua and Azmaria came running up. "Come on, neesan." Joshua grinned widely. He was ever so much stronger now, and always grinning. "Come dance!" And without waiting for her reply, he dragged her off with him and Az, leaving Chrno standing silently against the wall of the room, sipping his punch.
He watched the children with a smile on his face, but also noticed everyone else was giving him a wide berth, with the occasional nervous glance his way. He sighed mentally, not able to blame them, but feeling somehow as if this was wrong. People wouldn't change this easy, and Sister Kate should know that.
His eyes darted to the side, as he saw a figure approaching… it was Sister Kate. He straightened a bit, turning to face her, but she smiled and shook her head, leaning on the wall next to him and sipping her own glass. "It is a lovely celebration." Her eyes darted over to him, and landed on the cross glittering on his chest over the tuxedo. "I'm glad to see you're wearing that."
He smiled, and put a hand up to touch the cross gently. "I wouldn't have it any other way."
Sister Kate inclined her head once to the side, then frowned thoughtfully. "I have been meaning to ask you something personal…if you don't mind?"
Chrno glanced her way, curious. Most of his personal issues were in the open now, in fact he couldn't think of anything more he had to hide from them. "I hardly think you need to ask, Sister Kate." He said quietly. "You have done more for Rosette and Joshua than anyone, and for that alone I thank you."
She smiled and nodded once. "You hardly have to thank us, you have also done more for them than we can thank you for…but that is beside the point." She glanced at him, a curious look on her face. "Rosette told me… about your romantic feelings towards Mary Magdalene… I am curious, where do you stand now?"
He blinked a bit, surprised, and a quick look of sadness crossed his features, but then a smile met it as well. "I think… I have finally been able to put it all behind me." Sister Kate smiled as he spoke, and watched him quietly. "I don't think that I will ever completely overcome the pain of losing her, and the feelings I have for her… however I can finally move on in my life and put it in the past as a memory."
Sister Kate nodded and stared into her cup, watching the carbonation of the fizzy pop rise up. "I thought that was the case… It still amazes me to no end, that you can have such intense, good feelings… of love, care, kindness, generosity… we always believed that demons were pure creatures of evil, incapable of such things."
He nodded a bit and shook his head. "I understand… I didn't realize I was capable of such things myself until I experienced them….I think the reason that the stereotype of pure evil is connected to demons, is the fact most of them aren't willing to try something different…we are all capable of different emotions, human, demon, and apostle alike…if only we indulge in experiencing them."
Sister Kate smiled at that. "I believe you are right… But there is something else, something different about you that stands you out from the rest…." She trailed off, looking thoughtful, as he glanced her way, looking a bit confused.
"What do you mean?"
Sister Kate glanced up at him, and gazed thoughtfully at his face. It was definitely a handsome one, even if you overlooked the odd features that stood him out from the rest. The three red gems on his forehead glittered in the glittering candlelight, and his red wine colored slit eyes studied her back benignly…it was then, she felt the strange shiver as she gazed deeper into his eyes…and she saw something else there. It was a glimmer of something bright and foreign to his demonic appearance…the wings, the spine-tail, the claws and fangs… all of it represented what he was, but this….this was something different. It also gave her confirmation to her suspicions… Yes, there was definitely something new about him, that he was not aware of yet.
She drew back, aware he was staring at her with a worried puzzled look. "Ah, well it hardly matters. It will be an interesting experience for you and the others to go out on field work elsewhere…but I will try and delay Rosette to putting it off for a couple months to allow you to fully recuperate. You know how tempestuous she is."
Chrno chuckled and smiled in thanks. "I would appreciate that."
The remainder of the evening went pleasantly well. Dancing, socializing, and filling of stomachs continued, as laughter rang through the hall cheerfully. Everyone was having a good time, and though some were uneasy around Chrno, many still came up to talk with him, especially the three energetic Sisters who adored Rosette. It was quite ironic, they had first been frightened of him when they discovered he was a demon, but now that they had become used to the idea, they flocked to him like fan girls, cooing over simple things, and seemed fascinated by his oddities, wings, tail and claws included. He didn't seem to mind, but a blush continuously lit his face every time they tittered. Once they had tired of their new toy, he spoke briefly with some of the other Order representatives, Gillium being one of them. Unlike the rest, Gillium greeted Chrno with a heavy guffaw on the back and a wide grin, treating him just like he did the rest of the guests.
Late into the night, the celebrations continued, until finally the guests filtered off one by one, until only a few were left, mostly in tired groups, about to fall asleep.
Chrno bent down and scooped Rosette up into one arm, and Azmaria into the other, as a tired Joshua lounged on his back, head slumped over his shoulder.
"They had a good time." Chrno glanced over and saw Remington walking his way, smiling. "It seems they have tired themselves out."
"Ah.." Chrno smiled fondly, glancing down at Rosette's peaceful face as she slumbered. "They have earned it."
"Indeed…as have you." Remington raised an eyebrow at the demon, as if to ask if that was true or not.
Chrno merely smiled once, and turned heading up the stairs slowly with his burdens, as the Minister joined him. "And it was a lovely time."
Remington just nodded and stopped as Chrno reached Joshua's room, and gently opened the door, and placed the youth on the bed, then moved on to the girls' rooms. "I hear Rosette says you are heading out tomorrow to tour the world together."
Chrno chuckled once, and shook his head. "I wouldn't mind waiting a few days.. I am still recovering from…that day…Sister Kate was going to try and distract her in the meantime."
Remington glanced at the demon as he lay Azmaria down, and closed the door after him, heading to Rosettes' room. "It is still fresh on your mind then? Not that I can blame you…" He walked alongside and looked deep in thought for a moment before speaking again, as Chrno entered Rosette's room. "I would like to ask a favor of you, if you do not mind…." Chrno glanced up and nodded once as he gently lay Rosette down on her bed. Remington continued. "Take care of them and make sure nothing becomes of them.. I have a feeling that we are not through with watching our backs just yet…"
Chrno raised his head, and frowned a bit. "You have that feeling as well…?" he straightened and looked thoughtful, then nodded. "You can be assured… I will protect them with my life."
"I have no doubt of that." Remington smiled. "Seeing how devoted you three are to one another, but I had to ask nonetheless…Be careful out there."
The two gripped hands firmly, and each found it slightly ironic that they both seemed to have pushed the past far behind them finally. It had been a long time since they had spoken on the park bench after Rosette had arrived in New York…much had happened since then, and somewhere in the middle, an understanding had come about between them.
Chrno often felt, that had they not met under unfavorable circumstances 54 years ago, he and Remington might have become friends, much like Ion and himself had been.
Nonetheless, an understanding was what they had at the moment, and on that note, the two separated and went their separate ways.
Chrno stepped into his room, and closed the door, leaning against the wall with a sigh, and he glanced over at the mirror watching his reflection for a little bit, before fading out of his true form, back into his human guise.
The night could have gone worse, he reflected with a thoughtful smile on his face, as he slowly began to remove the fancy tuxedo, and slip into something more casual. Rosette had been laughing the whole time, with no sign of weakness, and Joshua and Azmaria seemed to be having just as much fun together. For the first time in years, he felt a sense of peace and tranquility, with no strain, no worry, and no troubling memories…
He walked over to the window, and opened the balcony doors, stepping out and leaning on the railing overlooking the grounds below. A sister had gone about and lit all of the lanterns in the yard, and they glittered with merry bright lights in the soft moonlight. His gaze rose to the sky, and he stared up at the stars, a thoughtful expression on his face for a long time. The stars were exceptionally bright tonight….
His eyes closed, and his thoughts drifted back to the battle, as he began to doze off…
Rosette had departed, leaving him alone with Magdalene, though at the moment, his mind was overwhelmed with the pain and torturous strain of trying to wrest control of his consciousness back…it felt as if every fiber of his body was crying out, protesting, as it fought to change it's will against him…yet he knew if he allowed it, he would be destroyed.
A gentle hand on his shoulder brought his mind back from the looming chasm of pain that he had been thrown into, and he managed to turn his head a bit, to meet eyes with Magdalene… His mouth opened and he fought to say something, as his heart ached with just the chance of seeing her again…
Her face was serene and smiling. "Chrno…Nothing needs to be said, I understand how you feel." She put her hand up and put it over his mouth, to staunch any questions that he might have asked, though at this point he could barely draw a breath to speak as it was. "I've been here with you ever since that day, though you never knew or understood it…"
His eyes widened, at the implication, and the power rippling around them fluctuated as he began to lose concentration.
"No, don't waver." She said softly, her blue eyes meeting his with determination. "You cannot hesitate here… I don't regret what happened…I only wish that we had the chance to know each other better, and longer, in the way we had met…" She shook her head lightly, and leaned her head on his shoulder. "But we cannot change the past, but only move forward into the future, not looking back. Don't let me stand in the way of your life, and your feelings. I know how strongly you feel for Rosette, yet my memory is holding you back from truly experiencing them…Don't let it." She brushed his cheek with her lips as she kissed him lightly, ignoring the crackle of power that was consuming them both.
She gripped tighter on his shoulders, and stood straight. "Chrno… I'm going to give you myself... It means I will no longer exist inside of you, but will instead become a part of you. Which is far more precious to me." She smiled brightly and opened her eyes, staring deeply back into his eyes. "Use my power and put a stop to this…and then go back to her. Protect her, and love her as you wish. There is still much more to come on the road ahead…you will need strength, and understanding to face it. No regrets…and open your heart."
He forced a smile out, even as tears began to run down his cheeks. She was right… he had to put her memory to rest if he was to move on… and now….
She put her hands over his, and joined him in touching the crackling orb of energy that represented his soul, his power, his being. Together, they focused, and the red glow and seeping color that had crept through his veins began to recede, and then…softly…Magdalene began to sing. It was a song she had sung for him once on a dark moonlight night, when they had sat and stared at the stars in wonder. Her voice was uplifting and joyous, beautiful and heartwarming. It sent shivers of wonder down his back, and his heart ached. But he knew what he had to do. He joined in, raising his own tenor voice to join hers, and sang the complimenting part….
Memories, warm, and bitter, began to flash through his mind as their voices lifted, and he felt a strange tingling feeling as together they separated away from the being that had taken his body, and stood outside. He was dimly aware of others around them, watching, but his mind was focused on this task, and his feelings, for they were what seemed to be drawing the strength to continue.
He felt her breath against his in a final kiss, as she stepped into him, and they merged. He felt a brief disorientation, but his voice did not waver, as he heard Magdalene's voice singing in his head, then fade off as he alone carried the song, as her power coursed through him. He could feel the Astral Line once more, in a different way than his normal powers allowed. This way, he could manipulate it, pull it to his needs, and expend it, though it would take a great deal of energy, he knew he could do it borrowing Magdalene's holy powers.
He felt a final whisper in his mind, as she said goodbye to him, and the power expelled itself from him like a gentle breeze, and he felt dizzily disoriented again as he once more merged with his own body, the soul possessing it gone, and vanquished quietly. The moment as he finished seemed to last for an eternity, as his eyes strayed over to where Rosette, and the others waited breathlessly, before blackness slowly crept into his vision and he sunk into sleep.
**
She was gone now… He raised his head, and opened his eyes, and saw the moon had sunk lower in the sky. He had dozed off for several hours. Yet, he didn't feel empty inside like he used to. Somehow, letting go of everything, and coming face to face and making final amends, had helped him more than he had first thought. He still felt the ache of regret at knowing he would never see Magdalene again, but he also felt the comforting feeling that she would always remain a part of him now, if only in memory, and a fond one at that. Even remembering their sad existence before, didn't bring tears to his eyes any longer, but instead instilled a faint sense of regret, that he couldn't have found another solution to dealing with Ion… after all, they had been friends once… and Chrno found himself wishing that if only things had gone different, and they could have remained such.
He sighed and leaned against the wall, sitting up on the narrow rail of the balcony, and let his head fall back against the building, sending his gaze skyward. Well, nonetheless it was over. It formed a sense of relief in his heart, that he finally could let go of everything that had weighed him down this whole time, and embrace a new life, with Rosette…
Rosette… what would her life be like? He found his heart clench at the thought. Though she had been spared even though he had used up nearly all her soul, it still was true her life expectancy was greatly shortened. Though no longer was her soul fueling his powers, it had done so for so long, that he feared she still might have a very small amount of time left.
His hand felt in his coat pocket, and pulled out the clock, and held it in the half-lit moonlight. This device was a blessing, and a curse… While it stopped him from drawing unlimited amounts of power from the contractor, it also let you know just how long you had left… If only he could give back some of what he took from her.
His eyes lifted sharply. What if? Sheda invented it but the Elder was very adapt at tinkering… would it hurt to ask? After all, he wanted to help her as much as he could…and he knew that should anything happen to Rosette…
He closed his eyes. It was painful to think of such things, but he knew it was inevitable. Rosette would eventually weaken and die, either from old age, or lack of her soul's strength. And that would leave him alone once more.
He gripped the edge of the railing tightly, and shook his head. Why was he thinking such dreary thoughts. Tonight had been a lovely night, one to celebrate and be merry, and here he was thinking of something depressing.
A soft movement behind him caused him to turn his head slightly, and he blinked as he saw the object of his thoughts step out onto the balcony with him. "Rosette…?" He smiled down at her, feeling relieved somehow at seeing her. "Weren't you asleep?"
"I woke up and couldn't get back to sleep." She yawned, and rubbed her temples. "Had too much wine…"
Chrno laughed softly and shook his head. "You're a lush, you and Stella."
"Oii…" Rosette glared at him, walking over and leaning over his foot, peering up at him. "I don't see you drinking…one of these nights we're gonna have a contest. Just you, me and Stella."
He coughed a bit, and blinked at her. "I er…"
Rosette grinned up at him with a evil gleam in her eye. "Don't tell me YOU'RE a lush."
"Well no….just…" He hesitated and his cheeks colored a bit.
"Ah hah, you don't hold it well that's it, isn't it?" Rosette grinned teasingly. "And here I was expecting you'd be able to handle more."
He shook his head, smiling. Why debate it…Rosette leaned over the railing in her nightdress, quietly watching the city lights in the distance, with a smile on her face. "Ne… Chrno?"
"Hai?"
She glanced over at him, her blonde hair blowing lightly in the evening breeze, still curled slightly from the party. Her cheeks were rosy, and he wasn't sure whether it was from the cool air, or from something else. "I…" She hesitated, and then quickly looked down, shoulders hunching.
He slid off the railing, and landed on the balcony next to her, and joined her in leaning over, peering at her. "What is it, Rosette?"
Rosette lifted her eyes to meet his again, and felt her cheeks redden even more at the soft dulcet tone in his voice. His smile reached his eyes, and twinkled kindly down at her, in that innocent reassuring way he had about him, and though his appearance had changed several years, it was still the same face smiling down at her. Her thoughts instantly shot back to the two times when she had been closer to him than ever…and her heart quickened. "Um…"
Chrno sighed softly, understanding now. He wasn't so naive as to understand what Rosette was going through, since he himself felt exactly the same way. But for some reason he was less embarrassed and hesitant now to explore it…
He reached out, and gently put an arm around her shoulders, and pulled her close, and stood there, holding her against him in the cool night air, smiling with his eyes closed, and enjoying the moment.
Rosette blushed deeper the moment he drew her close, but she smiled and felt her back melt into his chest, as he pulled her close. No words ever really needed to be exchanged between them, they understood one another quite well. She smiled, and closed her eyes, enjoying the gentle rhythm of his heart as it beat softly next to her ears.
She supposed that later, she would remember this moment as the unofficial moment, that they finally admitted their feelings for one another. The fleeting kisses, and moments before were just the precursors to indicate that they felt something deeper, but this moment…this moment was forever.
**