Sono Hanashi no Itsutsu

(The Story of Five)

Chapter 1: The Flight of the Phoenix

Long ago when the universe was still young and defenseless to the evil powers that threatened to destroy it from within, only one creature dared to stand against them and defy their power; the Phoenix. Born from the wisps of rainbow smoke in the Cygnus Loop nebula, she was the light of hope for the universe and it's most powerful guardian. Only one other being in the universe rivaled her in both strength and power; Trimascus.

For many years, the two mighty creatures battled and now Trimascus was gaining the upper hand. Badly wounded, the Phoenix managed to escape their battle and fled, with Trimascus trailing closely behind her. After many long hours of desperately trying to stay ahead of her pursuer and seeing no signs of civilization anywhere, the Phoenix decided to try something that would quickly use up her power...but it had to be done.

"Hello, is anyone out there?" she called out hesitantly as she mentally pushed through the inky blackness as she searched for signs of intelligent life. "I don't mean to intrude, but I'm badly injured and being followed by my enemy. I just need a place to stay for a few days until my wounds heal." She said timidly and closed her eyes tightly and felt hot tears run down her face as she saw some brightly colored spirit orbs run off into the dark empty void. Then she swallowed hard as she felt an odd lump forming in her throat. Then from out of nowhere came a green glittering orb that sailed playfully around some stars as it made its way toward her.

"Hello, my name is Adrianna and I am the protector of love; my official title is 'Aishiteru no Fushicho' even though I'm not officially a guardian. Because I'm still in training you see and I haven't earned that privilege yet. Oh, I'm sorry am I boring you?" the orb asked as it noticed the frightened look on her face and turned dark green with embarrassment as she remembered why she was sent to retrieve the girl in the first place. Oh, I can't believe I just did that. Rambling on like an idiot when you're being followed and in bad need of food, shelter, and a miracle worker. Well come on, let's go see the 'Great Elder', she's quite interested in meeting you."

Who is this 'Great Elder'? Can she help me? Are there others like me? she wondered as she made her way home. Little did she know that her meeting with the Great Elder would change her life forever...