Note To Readers: Sorry for the late update but my computer crashed recently and I lost all my data from the first time I typed this chapter. This chapter seemed to be worst than the last one, but it's okay for now. Thank you all for adding me to any favorites, and review. Now one by one:
Shadow Fox 05:
Nice work! Yay! Thankies for the compliment! But sorry for the late update.
Trickssi:
You review! No, I like your short chapter...yes it is short, but good! "Splendiferous, flowing, and inspiring"...wow! Merci for the compliment. If my chapters help you get ideas for yours, then I'll keep writing to help you out too. Deal? We'll both keep on writing and reviewing Sheelos together! Merci for the review and update soon!
SweetMisery430:
It's okay! My computer barely got back together recently as well. Same thing happened to me as well...19 author alerts...took awhile to read half of the stuff. (sigh) Yeah, I added the Gesea because of you and another individual. Lloyd comes very handy, huh? Thankies for the review and my fic in your favorites.
A fan:
Friend? I guess you could call them friends... Well, Lloyd is going to stay for a while, leave, and then come back. Is that ok with you? Yes, I did have Zelos very high in the game just so I can see his Flanoir scene. Thankies!
FireEdge:
I love long chapters, don't you? I'm missing words?! (gasp) I know, I am such a bad person to check over my work. That's why I asked people to be my beta reader, both she(s) are mentioned at the end of this chapter. If there are still mistakes and typos, I'll fire them. (J/K KL and SD5!) Hope you bribe Guy good! I would be honor if you join my community staff, but it's up to you. Thankies for the review, my fic in favorites, and myself in your favorites.
Cardmaster372:
I can't describe how much I enjoy your support. We could go find Lloyd to question him on that together. Hehe. Jealousy is my favorite part of romance for some odd reason, and yes, it is the theme of "Insights" and I will update it hopefully. Action fics are not my type, but I do love that fic. Thankies for the review, myself in your favorites, and my fic in your favorites.
Houyoku 2:
Yes, I love introductions...Martel is the ghost of marriages past! Wow, she has a very rewarding job huh? You're uncomfortable with fluff? Uh-oh...the following chapters have tons. You'd better be ready! No, the idea isn't mine...(sigh) it's in the game, but I wouldn't ruin it for you. Actually I think I did. Sorry!
Lloyd's clueless side is such a cool and interesting character trait to me, I like him a lot! Especially with Colette. I wish I have more time to read more and write more as well but I am so busy now. Tennis interfered. No, you're very reliable in reviewing! I just love your writing! That's why you're one of my favorite writers in my bio. Thankies for the review, my fic in your favorites, and myself in your favorites.
Oblivion Awaits:
You enjoyed it, that's good to hear. If you don't, you wouldn't even be reviewing right? Thankies for the review and my fic in your favorites.
Jellybeanz225:
Long chapters are very very good! Oh, about that...Shihna is actually Sheena's Japanese name so the song isn't titled- Sheena's theme song but Shihna's theme song. Hope I didn't confuse you too much. I hope I could write a lot better to get your approval! You like ZeLink? I never knew that, you have to read LK's work on Zelink fics if you haven't already! Thankies for the review and myself in your author favorites.
Lor:
I'm glad you like the length too! I know! Lloyd! You ruined everything! But don't worry, for this chapter, we get to blame on someone else! Thankies for the review, hopefully you get an account soon? (hint hint)
Sheelos fan:
Interactions are good! I know, we should all go and kill Lloyd for that. I was not planning on adding any more humor and I didn't intend to do so, but I guess it was pretty funny. Thankies for your review and all your support!
Countkata:
Hehe, soup! I'll write more and more to keep you interested okay? Thankies for the review and my fic in your favorites.
The Zelda Master:
I'm glad you liked this fic so much! I love yours as well! This is your favorite Tales of Symphonia fic? I am so honor! (bows) Originality is good, I don't do anything non-realistic. I'm trying hard to make the relationship grow throughout the chapter and wanting more Sheelos fluff into it. To tell you the truth, I never experienced it either but I know how they feel through imagination. It worked well so far I guess. I really do love your review! Thankies for the review, my fic in your favorites, and myself in your favorites.
Michelle of the Night:
Typos!!! I hate that! Thank goodness, KL and SD5 are going to help me now. You could stop worrying. I know, but it's the whole theme of the story not to say "I love you" until she does. She could be so evil sometimes! I'm glad you like the Gesea part as well, I'm glad. They are adorable together! Evil Lloyd as well. You joined! Thankies for the review, my fic in your favorites, and myself in your favorites as well.
Gothichika:
Wow, thankies for that wonderful comment. I also enjoy those pairings as well. The first ToS fic you've read and you liked it? I do feel special! I didn't update soon, sorry. Thankies for the review, my fic in your favorites, and myself in your favorites.
Mizu kio:
We both love Sheelos! Mind joining my Sheelos community? I would not force you of course, but I thought it would be nice to have you aboard! Wow, my thoughts exactly!!! We should be twins! This couple is heaven! You like Serk too! I didn't update soon, sorry. Thankies for the review, my fic in your favorites, and myself in your favorites.
Frozen-Harpie-Mimi:
Yup, wicked fluffy! That is a good phrase, I should use it sometime. I agree, I get tired if it's up to 23-30 pages long...that are just too long for a chapter! I understand about the school thing for I am so myself. As long as you review though unlike some people. (glares at someone or more than someone) Thankies for your review, my fic in your favorites, and myself in your favorites.
Someone...:
The best couple and the lack of these are just plain sad. This goes for Colloyd as well. I do not get Sheeloyd! Oh, I'll change it someday if I have time. Thankies for the review!
Cyberchao X 2:
I'm not so sure updating one time a day is a good thing though. I would prefer one a week instead of one per two or three weeks, but one a day is way to fast...to me. It reminds you of your own plans...hm, are you sure I'm not influencing you? Just kidding, but I do think great minds think alike. Inspirations from songs are nice! Maybe you could join my staff for Sheelos community? Please? You don't have to of course, but you did write a Sheelos fanfic. Thankies for the review, my fic in your favorites, and myself on your favorites.
Devil Angel M:
That's great news! Maybe you could join my staff for Sheelos community. You could or could not, it's your choice but I would love to have you aboard. I'll be sure to check my grammar and typos more, and LK/SD5 will too! Thankies for the review and my fic in your favorites.
Shosho:
That was a very nice compliment from you, thanks! I don't know how either the first time at fanfiction, but now it's a complete habit. Thankies for your review and myself in your favorites.
Joanna:
Sheena and Zelos, both make me happy too. Together, I'm the happiest girl ever! Thanks for the review!
Shadow-Dragon5:
Shad, you reviewed! Finally! I'm playing with you, and thank you so much for pointing out my errors and hopefully, with your help on beta reading, we will make this fic more "readable" right? Thank you for reviewing, my fic in your favorites, and myself on your favorites!!
Just call me Angels:
Don't worry, there are more good ToS fics out there. It just take a long time to find a good one. Oh, by the sounds of that, ToP must be very good game! I don't have the fortunate opportunity to play it. From what it sounds like, I think you enjoy my fic so far. My fic might be a bit predictable but not cliché. Thankies for the review. There's always someone who reviews right before I update. Hehe.
Attempts of Kiss: 2, let's see how the number will steadily increase. Hehe.
There is no disguise, which can hide love for long where it exists, or simulate it where it does not.
-La Rochefoucauld (Just for a note, I LOVE THIS GUY'S QUOTES! I used two of them already in either fics I updated or the ones I haven't. You could expect more of his quotes later on.)
WARNING: There might or might not be any more humor in this fic. If you want to read a really good one though and you like SERK (FE), then I suggest you read "Curse of the Staff Wielders" by Sorceress Kirara. It is so good but no one sees it... Also, if I don't update as soon as you would like, read "Running" by Trickssi to keep your hunger for Sheelos romance! "Can I Trust You?" by LateNiteSlacker is also a recommendation when it comes to Sheelos romance. Or if you just want to read a one-shot, just read my "The Final Step" for the fun of it. Feedback for all these fics are appreciated. So, help yourselves when I don't update soon...
A Separate Link
Chapter VIII: Carnations and Purple Lilac
By potter29vo
(Third POV)
"No!!! You can't make me!" A violet-haired girl screamed at the top of her lungs as three dark figures surrounded her, making her forehead fill (fill instead of filled here) with sweat. Tears were forming in her purple-colored eyes, attempting to choke down tears. (I'm not sure if shaded is the best word here, you might want to take it out.)
"You take top, I take bottom." The tallest person spoke to the one next to him and now, turned his head towards the last person. "And you...get the job of making her drink the poison." The middle-aged girl, no older than nineteen, started backing away slowly until she hit a wall. She was trapped. (Probably want to take out that now and possibly the and, making it one long sentence.)
"How can you do this to me? You have taken care of me all these years..." She whined, but couldn't help the tears spilling down the corner of her eyes. Her throat was burning and her mind was unfocused. She slid down to her knees, staring up at the looming figures. She was not the tall type.
"Because you wouldn't listen...you're stubborn, just like your mother. She died a pretty terrible death...you don't want to suffer the same way, do you? We took you in and you have been nothing but a burden." The second one answered it for her. She was frightened and weak without her control. She needed control right now, but she couldn't.
She wanted to live, maybe even beg for it. She was sobbing now without any self-control. It was only recently she knew almost everything about her past and now, they were onto her plans. She must be obedient.
"I'll do anything, please don't make me drink the poison!" She begged as the three guys sniggered. She knew she could not win. Even if all three of them were down, there were many others. She needed help.
"It's too late."
She made a break for it, and ran to the side and twisted around them as fast as she could. She ran toward the table where her staff was, but before her hand reached its grip, she was taken down. The third one grabbed her leg and pulled her back towards them. She struggled...she grabbed the staff!
Now was the hard part...it was the part of the chanting. She held her staff tight, using it to hit the face of the man holding to her leg. "Why you little-" He was about to grab her staff now when she kicked him in the face and got up with her staff. He fell unconscious on the floor now. She ran to a far corner, her eyes burning. Maybe if she died, she would meet her mother again. But she had to fight before she did so.
She shut her eyes, trying to calm herself to remember the chant. The other two were getting closer by the minute. She must do this quick.
"There has been unfairness done to me. I call upon the elements. I invoke them. I conjure them to do my bidding. The ten summon spirits shall lay their eyes and minds. There shall be fear, (only one and) guilt and bad blood. There shall be submission and no pity. Two fold, a hundred fold is the cost of my hurt and pain. Thee shall be blinded by fear... blinded by pain... blinded by me... cursed by me...so mote it be!" She chanted hastily and when her last word was said, the nearest man grabbed her by the throat.
It was too late as darkness shone through the staff and hit the other man hard on the chest. His image was blurring and then he collapsed to the ground, but this did not interfere the other one from grabbing her throat even harder. The man looked at his companion in a split of a second before turning back to her with anger in his eyes.
"What have you done to him, you witch!" He screamed in her face, his hand hurting her more than she could endure. Yes, that was all she was (was instead of is)...a witch. Her throat was burning painfully, wanting to be freed. The poison was coming...
(Sheena's POV)
My throat! I woke up with a start, my eyes tensing slowly while my throat was burning painfully. I gasped for air as if there were none in the room already. My ruby lips were dry as well as the rest of my mouth. It was as if I had not drunk water in days.
(Third POV)
"That wasn't so painful, was it?" He asked, smirking as he left her sweating near the wall. He went over to his friend's side and examined his pulse. "He's not dead, what did you do?"
"I warned him! His body is burning every second you're wasting with words right now!" She threatened as he got back to her side madly, slapping her across the face hard. It was so hard that the leftover of what he did was in the form of his fingers, red on her face. It send her backwards and hit the back of her head to the wall. It hurt but it was worth it.
(Sheena's POV)
Suddenly, my face warmed up a bit for some apparent reason as I had no energy left to do anything but fall down backwards on the soft bed that held me together. The back of my head felt like it hit something really hard, hard enough that it was giving me a headache.It felt like a slap, but how could that be possible? My face was still burning while my mouth had this sickly taste in it. There was something wrong with me...I must be losing my mind.
(Third POV)
"He's not breathing anymore!" He hit her again, her body hitting the ground with a loud sound.
She gritted her teeth, trying to keep herself together. "That's because he's dead, he burned from the inside to death..." Murder was filling the other man's eyes, but he could do nothing to her but hit her. He couldn't kill her!
"And you couldn't do that to the Chosen? What's wrong with you, pathetic orphan!" He pulled her up to her feet, her toes only just touching the ground. He could have held her up and threw her against the wall if he wanted to. But he didn't, he dropped her to the ground like a worthless sack.
(Sheena's POV)
I held tight to my left cheek, surprised at the pain running through it again for a split second. It was like I was being punched or slapped or something! This had to be a dream...it just had to be. But if it was, then I should have woken up by now. This was real! But how could it be? I stared around, wondering if there was someone else in the room that could have done this to me.
Finally, I gave up in trying to find out and pulled myself together to watch the world outside my window. Zelos wasn't in the room, he must have been off to the kitchen with the other ladies of Mizuho while I just stood there and let him go on with his life. The world was so content now after what happened almost a month ago.
The Linkite Tree outside my building was greener and more beautiful than ever. It used to be dead, and nothing could come out of it once more. I could feel my heart warm when I knew I was one of the many responsible for its recovery. When I was little, I believed that trees had no life. It was just another tree.
Now, at a moment of peace, I could truly treasure every minute I was standing on this ground...in this world to watch the days go by. Trees really do have life, and they could recover like humans do or any other beings in the world...or two worlds. We value our life just for being there and thought we knew everything.
The point was we didn't know everything, and by boasting ourselves with this fact, we are no more alive than trees. Probably, the trees themselves are smarter than we. Sometimes, they provided shade for everyone while other times, they would let themselves be chopped down to be another building in another town.
Living beings like us who could think and talk were no better than trees. There are still people out there somewhere who would not provide for anyone but themselves and stuff their pockets with gald. Then, there were others who would willingly sacrifice their own happiness for others.
With this concept, I felt weak. I had been selfish, only thinking for myself and not of him. He wanted this new life, he wanted to enjoy this life as much as the trees do! If the Linkite Tree could have a second chance, then why couldn't he?
Because you want the old Zelos back...My heart was telling me this as I closed my eyes hoping my mind would agree or disagree. It was obvious that I did not think so, my mind had its own will against my heart. My heart told me that I should get the old Zelos back and be content with it, while my mind was against it and told me that I should let the new Zelos be who he is, and let him do what he wants.
The problem is...I told both of them...He told me loved me, but I don't have the same feelings back. It felt like those feelings had lost with the old Zelos trapped inside the new one. How could I be so wicked to let him continue thinking this? If I tell him "I love you", it would all just be a big lie.
You could grow to love him. My mind was telling me as I took a deep breath of air. Yes, that's true... so should I just tell him to back off until then? Or should I just let him continue dreaming? And how could I ever forget the old one?
No, you love the old one. Wait for Raine...let him go on with this...and when that day comes, you'll get your old Chosen back. My heart was now taking over. This was also true, I could just wait for Raine and stop thinking about this. I will soon get the old Zelos back!
But that means you're sacrificing the new one...is it worth it? This was also true... if I chose the old one over the new one, Zelos would lose everything. The kindness, politeness and maybe even the memories of these events we had together! How could I decide one without hurting the other?
Shaking my head, I sat down on the mat in front of the low table. The surrounding flow of gentle wind is covering the room with its fresh scent from my open window, the dreams of making this room its home. The pain and the confusion I felt was so much to think about all at once, and I tried to empty my mind with these thoughts but could not. They were important; as crucial as the air I breathe from this room. As important as the sun is to the land, and to us beings... so much directions that change the course of your life.
Listen to your heart. Hah! What a line! Just how could you listen to your heart without first hearing the logic of your brain? Is it right to listen to your heart and run away with a man when your family needs you the most? Is it right to listen to your heart and give your life up to regenerate the world? Colette would have made that mistake, if it wasn't for Lloyd. And is it right to listen to your heart and sacrifice the happiness of the new chance another had given?
I did not think so, but probably Presea would have thought more deeper and told me all the other possibilities from these questions. Knowing that all of this was useless at this moment when I was needed by the people of Mizuho, I stood up and was ready to head out the door when I spotted a piece of parchment on the table. It had a pink and yellow carnation on each side. I was curious and read the letter:
Dear Sheena,
Probably when you read this letter, I had already left for my next job with the other females of Mizuho. Sheena, I know everything is hard on you...and I am terribly sorry to add that pressure. I must be a great burden to you...to take care of me when I couldn't even remember anything.
This morning when I woke up, I noticed a certain book. I am also terribly sorry for looking through your items without permission but curiosity got the better of me. So before I knew it, my nosy self had looked through it. Certainly you already knew what was at the front page- a flattened rose.
Just a gentle touch of it, I already received another image, a vision of the first time we ever met. I must be the ladies man back then, giving you roses. I feel pathetic how I don't treat you as sweet like I used to. So I decided to do this...
I'll give you small gifts every day in the morning or at night if you don't mind to show my appreciation and my feelings. I would assume you have noticed the pink and yellow carnations. And you're probably familiar to what it meant because I learned it from the women of Mizuho yesterday. But just in case you didn't, I'll explain.
The pink carnation symbolized for the memories of my mind when I first awoke. The pink carnation meant "I never forget you" and that's exactly what happened. I could not forget you even after I had been cursed, and this is the most surprising fact of my life. I might not be sure that I was in love with you before all this happened, but I know for sure my feelings for you are real right now. Sheena, I could never forget you...now or before.
The yellow carnations symbolized for what happened last night. I know how hard it is...to think of me as anything more than a shadow for the lost Zelos. This was for disdain. I'm not sure why or why not you told me what you said. I'm hoping not to sound harsh right now, but I was a bit disappointed at the answer. I do not know what you really mean by that, but I could only assume you do not return my feelings.
I wanted to be persuasive, I wanted to convince you to see me more than a friend but this might not be possible. I am not hoping anything better but I will keep on trying until you accept me (Was the old Zelos this stubborn as well?). I will not stop loving you any time soon, and I only hope this is all for the best.
-Zelos Wilder
P.S. If you want this Raine person to return my memories back, I am willingly to do so. I do not care for this life and return to the old one if that is what you want. I'll do anything for you.
The first thing I asked myself was "how in the world could Zelos write like that?" when I realized I was being stupid since he was the new one and not the old one. I carefully picked up my small booklet with the rose in it. Even after all that time, I still treasured that rose. I really do have heavy feelings for that pervert.
Feeling the pages through my fingers, I gently turned to the next page and placed the pink carnation into it. He could never forget me. Oh Zelos! How could I have affections for both of you at the same time? How could I ever choose this way? One was sincere about this whole thing while one was lost but couldn't forget me.
Next came the yellow carnation, which means "disdain". I really did disappoint the new Zelos. I had broken his heart, or had made a very big impact on it. How could I be so cruel? He's so sweet and innocent and didn't know how much the world was turning out to be.
It was like he was in a hidden house, locked inside its area for all his life until the day he woke up and grabbed my arm from walking out that door. And inside that house, the only painting inside was me. When he woke up, the first thing he noticed was me...the painting he saw inside that house. Since he was so used to seeing that painting, he would immediately assumed I was someone he could trust with his life.
Then the time we spend together had brought out new things to him, new emotions came like love. The first person he was ever close with was me, and the person he would immediately have affection for would also be me. He had heard so much, and learned so much in a couple of days that it did not seem unnatural any longer. He was getting used to this new life, and something that he would keep every second of his day.
Taking all of this away from him and locking him back in that house would be cruel, would be dark as Mithos's vision himself! Mithos might have been wrong, but did it all for someone he loved. Could I do the same thing? Could I give up my own emotions for the person I love to get a second chance?
The reason was they were just so different! How in the world could they be the same person? I closed the book, hid it safely this time from Zelos and hoping he would forgive me soon enough. Confusion ran through my head as I walked out the door and went to the grounds and straight to Grandpa's place.
On the way there however, I met Lloyd. He was staying for another day to help with all the reconstruction, and waiting for the right chance to collect exsphere in the nearest towns and cities first. He smiled casually. "Sheena, good morning!" I smiled, it was always a pleasant day with Lloyd around.
But I just have to change that. I needed to know this. "Lloyd, do you think Zelos's past had to do with how he acted?" Lloyd was a bit shocked to hear myself asking him such a question, and so early in the morning. Knowing him, he was not an early person.
"Urm...yes...with the death of his mother and everything." Lloyd mumbled as my eyes shot open. Yes! That must be it! After he had seen his mother's death, he had completely turned into the pervert we all came to know.
"Lloyd! You're a genius!" I cried out loud, before continuing on my way. All he could do was scratch the back of his head before continuing on his way in the opposite direction.
This explained a lot of things... If he could not remember what lonely things had happened to him in his past, he had turned into a completely different person. This was when I started putting myself in his shoes. If he had never endured all that, he would be happy, caring and a great person. But then, Lloyd and I would have never had met him then. He would have something better to do than stick around the castle of Meltokio.
Regretting even more of how I treated him before, I felt my stomach turning inside out. He had endured so much and all that time I had hit him and shouted at him, I feel so ashamed of myself. He deserved better. He should find someone more intelligent and nicer than me. He should have never remembered me; I just ruined his life.
Meeting Grandpa, he soon sent me to Kiki instead of Orochi or Tiga. I was curious as to what I was supposed to do because Kiki was in charge in the female department. Holding back my tongue, I obediently listened and left for the kitchen part of the village where Kiki should be.
When I entered the building, I could already grasp the elegant smell of the food being made in the room. Rice was steaming while I watched vegetables being cut while some are washing some lettuce. I walked through, looking around for Kiki and hoping none of the girls would notice my presence. I was wrong, however.
Walking through I couldn't help but listen to two young ladies talking to each other while working sincerely. Miyana, the older of the two with a bright smile, was the first to speak. "Meiko, what do you think of the new member of our village?"
Meiko tilted her head peculiarly. "You mean Zelos?" I felt my heart skipped a beat.
"Yes, he's very respectful and charming. I would love to tell him how I feel but you know the Igaguri custom." Meiko nodded in agreement until I suddenly coughed on purpose to get their attention.
Miyana and Meiko, both red to the cheeks, turned around from their work and greeted me in unison. "Welcome, Successor!" Both bowed at the same time. I smiled, trying to keep my cool.
"Meiko, Miyana...be honest with me. What's the most interesting thing you guys like about Zelos?" The question brought redder faces and they both exchanged nervous glances as if they were in trouble. I added. "Don't worry, I won't tell anyone."
Miyana seemed relaxed now as she spoke for the shy Meiko. "Well, all the men in Mizuho are too stiff in personality. All they can think about is work and work." Miyana looked around to see if anyone was listening besides Sheena and Meiko before continuing. "He's elegant, and different from the type of males around here."
Different... I walked away without another word as the two sighed in relief at the only question she asked. So most the girls in Mizuho must have secret crushes for Zelos by now, another problem to think about. How could life be so easy before?
No, I was wrong. Life wasn't easy before, no one cared about me except for the few friends I had. I was always lonely and everyone tried to avoid me ever since I got almost a quarter of Mizuho citizens killed in that horrible accident that would have haunted me for life if it wasn't for Lloyd and Zelos. Both males helped me through that horrible time...
Knowing that life had come to a normal pace and no need for weapons anymore, I still had my cards by my side for protection, but I doubt that I could do as much damage I would usually do without my exsphere, which was hidden away. Exspheres came from the life of another being, I knew I must carry it that sin of that person and others in which I killed. One day, I would have to give it to Lloyd.
My heart sent an extra beat when I was face to face with him in the corner of the room. He didn't smile at first to see me because he was too much in tune with his work. I was amazed at how fractional he cut the tomatoes for I could not have done it that well. Yes, I did love to cook but I was never the best at it and made mistakes all the time. He seemed to be so much of a professional for his first time.
Realizing I was there, he still didn't look up but smiled under his watch at the tomatoes. "How's morning, Sheena? Good night sleep?" I turned red, how could he be so calm with all these emotions going on between us.
I kept my mouth shut about that. "Yes, very nice. Even though I had a bad wake up call." I told him truthfully as he cut another tomato in half.
"I'm sorry to hear that. Better now?" He wasn't going to ask what had made me wake up so terrible this morning? And I was so looking forward to talking this out with him too!
"Yes, much better. Thank you for asking." I tried to smile despite the odd conversation between us. He still haven't looked up from his work yet, to look into my eyes like he usually do. Was he still hurt?
"Did you pick up the gifts on the table?" He asked, as he gave a glance around the room as if someone was spying on them. He found none as he finally looked up, his eyes as gentle as always. Even before all of this happened, she always found gentleness in his eyes.
"Yes." I said firmly, my heart beating loudly in my ears. So loudly that I thought he heard it too, but he gave no sign as he dropped his knife and turned his head towards me.
"Kiki is looking for you outside, let's talk out there." He went on ahead, his face still straight as ever all this time. I followed obediently outside, feeling guilty to a fault. What did I do? He might not try to show it, but I could see right through him. He really is hurt badly.
We stopped in front of the building as I watched his shaking shoulders, trying to calm himself. "Zelos, are you ok?" I asked, trying to sound sincere myself. I didn't want to sound worry, or he'll be worry.
He shook his head, turned around and looked shyly away. "Sheena...am I a burden to you?" The question came out so fast that I was speechless. He took that as an answer. "I understand. I shouldn't be here, I should have stayed back at home in Meltokio and enjoy my old life right?" He was being tough.
"Zelos, I don't mean that! I want you to stay!" I urged. He wasn't convinced.
"Why?" He burst out. "You don't need me."
I couldn't control myself with this attitude he had on, my arms held tight to his as I shook it softly. "I do need you! You're my friend!"
He smiled. Then, he started laughing strangely...almost insanely. I was confused, he was acting so immature this morning. He finally recovered and shot his eyes open at me. "Friends...sure, let's be friends Sheena." That was the end of our conversation as he turned off to leave when suddenly...
(Third POV)
She had looked everywhere! Where could the antidote be? She had searched all morning secretly as she returned to her place with no hope left. She must do it...she must finish the job she was assigned to do in the first place.
But she couldn't hurt the person she wanted to see the most...she didn't want to hurt that person. What was a girl to do? There must be something she could do. She looked through her books...Indignation...warning curses...blinded curses...was there no cure for this poison? Surely if she found a healer...but this is much too powerful.
There was only one easy option left. Take the easy way out and end her life. Maybe she could never complete her past, maybe it was fate to decide that she would live in her life in mystery. She was so close too! Maybe this choice left.
She pulled out her staff, ready for the spell...the death spell for herself. A suicide spell. "May darkness consume me...I am tired of this life." She mumbled to herself, this was the end. Everything would be gone...her past, her present, and her future. She knew this was the coward's way out, but that is what she was...a coward.
"Summon Spirit of Darkness, I pray to thee. Give me the power. Give me the dark. I call upon you, the envoy of the dark abyss. Let your darkness crawl beneath my skin. Accept this sacrifice. Feed-" One of the men, which had helped her all her life and watched her grow up into a young adult, ran and grabbed her neck and squeezed it. He didn't do it too hard to suffocate her, but enough to stop her little chant of suicide. He smirked, letting it go as she fell to the ground to catch her breath.
"Try to take it the easy way out, eh? Witch!" He cruelly threw her at the wall as she fell unconscious, blood spilling out of her head. Darkness...The last hint of light was draining away from her vision...only darkness remains.
(Sheena's POV)
My eyes fluttered open as I saw myself in my own room once more with a concerned Zelos by my side, holding tight to my hand. It shocked me, but the first thing I did was withdrew my hand. That didn't mean that I felt nothing of his warm, shaking hands.
"Sheena, you just fell down suddenly and just blacked out. What happened?" He asked.
I stared down at my hands. I was wondering the same thing myself. What did happen? Why am I getting all these headaches and burned throats all of a sudden? I tried not to show these emotions running through my face but he saw everything and frowned. "No idea?" I nodded, almost disappointed.
"Zelos, please don't tell Grandpa about this. I don't want him to worry. He already gave me some slacks with your recent accident and all..." Before I continue babbling, he stopped me by touching my cheeks gently with his fingers. This time, I didn't inch away.
"Don't worry, your secret is safe with me." He smiled and I returned it when I suddenly saw something unfamiliar on the table. It was a piece of paper.
He followed my gaze and went over and picked it up. I looked up at him with curious eyes. "Did you put it there?" He shook his head slowly, his eyes on what was written on the paper.
Zelos sat on the side of my bed and gave me the parchment. It reads:
To Sheena,
The Golden Mean: You do not appreciate what you have until you don't have it anymore. Don't make that mistake twice.
My head was filled with more questions than ever and no one knew the answer to them. At least, no one who was available to talk to at the moment. Zelos opened his mouth to comment when there was a knock on the door.
Zelos motioned me to stay on the bed as he walked over to the sliding door, and Kiki entered. She smiled broadly at Zelos to my shock. Kiki had never smiled like that before! I was so taken aback that I didn't notice when she was already by my side, smiling more timidly than she did to Zelos a moment ago.
"Sheena, are you sick? Chief asked if we could spend some time together and go to buy supplies at Palmacosta. But if you're not well..." I almost jumped up so hard that I knocked Kiki off the bed.
"No, no! I'll be delighted to go!" I immediately cried out as we both smiled at each other before leaving. I waited at the door while she walked over to Zelos, who gave her his Rheaird. She smiled brightly with redness reaching her cheeks before we left for Palmacosta.
I was bewildered at Kiki's actions, thinking about it on the way there. I had known Kiki for a long time even though we had never been close. Her parents were also unfortunate to die because of my failure but she never put it against me. She never really spoke to me either, but I didn't expect it otherwise since she was in charge of the female section.
What did surprised me was how old she was... She was a year younger than I am and she's in charge of the female group. At first I didn't understand why, but after years...I knew she had a gift for that. She had leadership ability, and everyone respected her. She had the same violet hair as I, but I still considered her better looking than I. People that didn't know her that well would consider her as emotionless, but I knew better.
We were walking through town as she had that dreamy look on her face and still to my surprise. She never acted like this before, since she was always stern and looked after everybody. But ever since Zelos came...
"Successor, are you and Zelos close friends? I mean you guys sleep in the same room." She suddenly asked as I got out of my trance. What should I say?
"Yes..." I would have killed myself for that. "Why do you ask?"
Her face burned bright red. She tried to avoid it for a few seconds before turning her head back to me. "I was just wondering if you could do me a little favor."
Now I was curious. Kiki was never nervous for anything in her life, she was always so strong. That's why she could not accept any of the men in Mizuho since none of them were "worthy" of her. I started panicking now, my heart was taking over... could she? It can't be... "Sure, what is it?" I didn't just say that!
"Well, you know we could not hint to the opposite gender how we feel you hint to Zelos for me?" She asked with her innocent eyes and firm smile. How could I do that?
Then again...Zelos did deserve better, he needed someone who would love him back for who he is. I could not give that to him, I knew that I was an indecisive person who couldn't even decide which of the two I liked better. How could anything be worse than loving a person who doesn't even know if she has feelings for you back? Zelos must be in more pain than I thought. Kiki and him would be happier together and without my interference.
"Ok, I'll try." That was the best answer I could think of.
She brightened up at my answer. "Thank you, Successor!"
"Just call me Sheena." I replied, trying to look as cheerful. But the pain wouldn't go away and the note earlier just made it worse. You do not appreciate what you have until you don't have it anymore. Don't make that mistake twice. Is this just another mistake?
(Zelos's POV)
Everything was good all day, the women seemed to be fond of me and to my delight, Sheena did keep my gifts in her book with that rose. She couldn't hide anything from me, but I would never touch any of her other possessions. Her female clothes were nothing of my concern as I sat on my own bed, trying to remember what happened this morning.
She just collapsed out of nowhere and before she did, it looked like she was hit hard in the face. I shaded my eyes from the moonlight. I kept something for her, I couldn't get myself to tell her that blood was coming from the back of her head. Nothing hit her whatsoever so what had happened?
If she kept this up, there might be trouble. But I already promised to her that I would not tell her Grandpa. I don't know how much more I could take of this to see her in so much pain. I must find out some more about this.
Just when I got up, I found another small piece of paper on the table. That was weird because I didn't catch anyone coming in the room. Who could have left this? I walked over and picked it. It read:
To Sheena:
The person closest to you might be your worst enemy. The person you thought is your worst enemy could be your greatest ally.
I pocketed the note in my pocket, still couldn't believe what was happening around here. First, Sheena had a bad wakeup call and then she blacked out with blood. Now, she had gotten two mysterious notes without any kind of signature. This might be dangerous and I could not let her see this. I had to keep this secret for her safety.
(Sheena's POV)
After that experience with Kiki, I wonder how I am going to say to Zelos. How could I hint to him about Kiki? This was not going to be easy. Thank goodness I was to report to Grandpa the moment I was back with supplies. Kiki told me this and that and about her family.
Her family... I still remembered how her family was very close to the Chief. That made me wonder- if I never existed, would Kiki have become the Successor instead? That was very possible since beside Orochi, Tiga, and myself, the next person who would have chances would have been Kiki. Actually, Tiga and Orochi would not have wanted the position anyways so it was likely to be Kiki.
I entered the room alone with Grandpa. It seemed Orochi and Tiga were keeping tabs on Lloyd for some reason. I bowed before handing him the supplies we bought. Kiki asked me to hang around outside all day since she never get chances of seeing outside the village that often. I had nothing against it and stayed with her.
Grandpa finished his tea as he motioned me to sit down opposite of him. I tried to look cheerful even if my thoughts were somewhere else. He could tell the moment I walked in and gently touched my arm, making me shiver as if all the cold breezes of Flanoir were in this room.
"Sheena, I'm getting old and I want to tell you a story." He said softly.
"Yes Grandpa?" I asked, curious at this already. Before Grandpa went into that coma, he had told me lots of romantic and sad stories. Now, I could suddenly see the time fly by already.
Grandpa loosened himself a little, relaxing at the thought only the two of us together. I always loved these moments we had together. He picked it up from there. "Long ago, years before you were born. I think it was exactly two years before we found you when I send out my two trustworthy citizens, siblings they were, to find research about the 11th Summon Spirit. There was not enough evidence back then and they were to go to Meltokio to research." My eyes grew with anxiety. Could there be an 11th Summon Spirit? How could that be true?
He continued. "The one in charge, believe it or not, was the younger sister. She fell in love in Meltokio to someone I do not know of and her brother had the same syndrome. They never came back to Mizuho..." Grandpa paused a second before the next word came. "Alive."
I gasped. "Grandpa, what happened to them?"
Grandpa had the saddest face on. "They were killed. We had no news of the female but the male died inside Meltokio. I heard many things, but none I could be assured to be true." My face grew with unpleasant thoughts now. What happened?
"Grandpa, why are you telling me this?" I asked suddenly, trying to keep myself from breaking away at this tragic news of other Mizuho citizens.
"Because that female individual or her brother were really close to me, they're like my children. They would have succeeded after me. I made a mistake of sending them out on an impossible mission. It was all my fault, I thought they would succeed but they failed because of one word- love." I was stunned and speechless. "Sheena, you look almost like that young girl who fell in love with the male in Meltokio."
My heart stopped at these last words. "Grandpa...are you saying that Zelos would bring tragic paths for me?" To my surprise, he shook his head.
"That is the past, this is your future. You decide what needs to be done." Grandpa turned away, and this meant it was time for me to leave. I understood completely and got up.
Before I left though, there was still one question left. "Grandpa, what is her name?" I asked, as he turned around with tearful eyes.
"Her name was Amaya while her real name was Sheena." For a moment, there was no breathing in the room.
The moment I went inside my room, I immediately head for my bed and collapsed on it with my back the wrong way. I was exhausted and confused. I barely got enough energy to grab the item closest to me that caught my eye. It was a purple lilac. I started examining it with interest when someone started massaging my back very softly.
I turned around and grinned to see him looking back. He watched the lilac in my hand and grinned. "Like it, Sheena?" I nodded as I got up and stretched my arms for a little bit. He started massaging again as I let him. This is the new Zelos I'm with, he wouldn't take any advantage of me.
"Guess what this one means." He spoke gently.
"I remember before... I learned that a purple lilac means 'I am falling in love with you', is that right?" He nodded, not a bit surprised as he worked my entire back as I relaxed at the touch of his hands.
"Sheena, how do you like the massage?" He questioned, as if needing an approval to continue. I turned around to face him.
"Your massages are the best! Let me guess, you learned it today?" He nodded. "I never did." I told him truthfully as he tilted his head in an inquiring way.
"I thought..." I interrupted him.
"No, I learned how to cook and then, when Grandpa found out I was a summoner, I was needed with the males to train." Zelos smirked, bring on his devious face.
"So that's where you get your tough side from!" He cried out as my face warmed up with embarrassment.
To my usual ways, I immediately disagreed. "No!" He shook his head, knowing me too well. But then, I thought of a way to hint Zelos of Kiki without making it too obvious. "Zelos...I am not good at any of the housework stuff, I would not make a good wife for anyone."
Zelos got closer behind me, and wrapped his arms playfully around my waist while rocking back and forth. "I disagree. You'll make your spouse the luckiest man alive."
I laid my head back on his shoulder in a friendship kind of way, thinking to myself and keep my body rocking back and forth with his motion. "I don't know how to do anything that a good wife should except cooking. Kiki on the other hand..." I was hinting it, but he stopped rocking the moment I said that.
"Sheena, what are you trying to say?" He demanded, holding tighter to my waist.
"I mean, Kiki would make a perfect wife for you. She's smart, and stern, and just plain perfect!" He laid his head on top of mines, returning to his rocking motion. I knew I must say this. I told Kiki that I would! He seemed perfectly fine for a moment, thinking of the words I just said.
"No deal." He said straight-out but I still didn't understand.
"Why not?" I urged, thinking that he was not trying to fool around with this.
"Because..." He let go of his grasp around my waist and went around to face me instead. "Why would I want anyone else when I have the gorgeous queen right here? She's so thoughtful and she's not bad to look at either." He joked as I hit him in the shoulder good-naturedly.
"I'm serious, Zelos! How could you stand how I keep on doing all of this to you? I said 'thank you'!" He shrugged as if he didn't even care.
"Sheena, how many times do I have to tell you that I can't change how I feel about you? I don't care if you love him better than you love me because that's how I feel. I'm not just an item to be traded off with another girl such as Kiki." He didn't frown when he said this. I was surprised. I felt more guilty than ever.
"Zelos...I'm not the one." I just said that absentmindedly.
"Sheena, you don't know. I know." He argued, and like old days, I was not going to lose an argument just yet.
"This morning, I couldn't even decide which of the two of you I like better! I am indecisive, a person who couldn't even see what's right and wrong. I am hopeless, I'm not worth it." He was silent and for a moment, I thought he lost this argument.
I was wrong however. "Sheena...it's because you thought about me, that I really think that I am worth it. Sheena, are you not understanding my feelings towards you or are you just denying the facts?" My face darkened with this question.
"Yes, I was denying it. Zelos...I..." I wrapped my arms under his, and just held him tight. I didn't want to let go, but I didn't want to cry either. I decided not to do both, as he patted me on my back in an okay kind of way.
"It's ok, Sheena. We all have our own problems. Besides, if you turn out to be bad at house choirs, I'll do them for you." He got a laugh out of me. He started brushing the strands of violet hair from my face and moved me carefully away from his chest.
"Sheena, no one is in comparison to you." He kissed me lightly across my forehead, feeling my neck at the same time with his other hand. I did not move away and just let him continue. He moved down since he was taller than me, and our faces were soon inches apart.
I closed my eyes, waiting for it to come. "I adore you Sheena, and I'll wait until you're ready to say it back. Or Raine to get my old self back." My body was tensing up as the minutes went by...please... How much I wanted to say it back...How much I wanted to tell him I can't live without him.
His hand was already on my back, going up and down and placing my body down on the bed tenderly. My mind was overflowing with emotions and waiting for him to give me the usual attempted kiss. Maybe this time it will come at last!
I could feel his breath, I could feel his presence over my face. Just when I was about to have the pleasure of having the embrace, I suddenly heard a familiar voice. "I should have knocked." I hated myself once more as Zelos got up and turned to see who was the intruder.
I was so busted now! It was Grandpa and Tiga, standing there with their face filled with surprise. Actually, Tiga looked upset while Grandpa looked like he was ready to bust out laughing. "Wow, if I knew that Sheena do that to every new member that came to Mizuho, the line outside our small village would reach all the way to Iselia!"
Zelos did not catch how serious this is and started laughing with Grandpa while Tiga gave me a very stern look. "Sheena! You should have known better than to violate the style!" I was about to apologize when Grandpa stopped Tiga from overreacting.
"What do you mean? She did nothing wrong! We're the ones who walked in without knocking." Grandpa persuaded and gave me a wink. Zelos grinned broadly, still have no clue how close he was to dying by Tiga. To my relief, Grandpa and Tiga left the room.
Zelos laid down on my bed, still gazing up at me. "You could lighten up a bit." Even in this new attitude he had, he was still carefree in a way. Guess some things never change.
"Zelos, that was close!" I laid down right next to him, looking up at the ceiling. Something was bothering me though and I knew it wasn't about Grandpa or Tiga. Amaya...these new feelings I've been receiving...the piece of paper...the path I chose with Zelos...the 11th Summon Spirit...the decision between keeping the old Zelos or the new one...Kiki's new emotions and attitude...the person who cursed all of this be related?
Ending Notes: It wasn't that long I think. There were 4 pages of review responses so that didn't really count. I am so sorry for the lack of Presea fluff in this chapter, but I didn't want to make it too long or I'll get bored. Let's see...what else to say. Oh yeah! What happens next time! Lloyd left already, and the next chapter is about how Zelos and Sheena got separated for the upcoming event. How will they feel? What partners did they end up with?
Thank you Lady Kumiko (don't worry, Kumiko, you could check next chapter) and Shadow-Dragon5 for beta reading!!! I appreciated it so much! Credit to Ashbear for inspiring me for the Igaguri/Tiga part. If anything is confusing, I'll answer it myself in an e-mail or something. Also, if you like to join my staff in the Sheelos community, send me an e-mail and I'll send you a verifying note in the C2 staff section. I already send it to some of you already, so go check! Anyone who had spoke to me personally would know how normal I am with a little weirdo mix into it, so I don't bite! I like to make friends. So please REVIEW! Love all of you who do and no cookies for those who don't.