A/N: Disclaimer: Refer back to Chapter 1. I do not own the lyrics of the song contained within this chapter. Those lyrics were taken from the song "Prayer" from DDS1, Japanese version.

WARNING: LEMON, OOC, LANGUAGE, SUGGESTIVE SITUATIONS.

Chapter 13: Let Go

Sera smiled as she hit the target right in between the eyes. She turned as she heard a chuckle from behind her.

It was Cielo.

She blushed.

Since Cielo had told her not to leave the community, Sera instead focused on more important things. She came there to be stronger; and that was what she had just done.

Over the last few days, she had been learning to use a bow and arrow. She had "pestered" Cielo to no end until he said yes and taught her.

Cielo smiled as he saw her performance…She was a natural…Actually, he wouldn't have taught her but…she had "persuaded" him to teach her. He blushed as he reminisced.

Flashback

Cielo slipped through the window. The moon was full and so, illuminated the forest quite well. He frowned as he peered within the room, expecting his new friend to be within, but was disappointed to find that she was not within it.

He narrowed his eyes, "Where could she had gone?"

He sighed after a moment's deliberation.

'She's at the waterfalls.'

Knowing his next destination, he disappeared within a cloud of smoke. His light feet stepped on the branches of the trees lightly, not making any sound.

His ears listened intently for the sounds of the forest, listening intently for any sounds that may appear…unnatural.

He stopped for a second and there, stood upon the branch of a tall tree and sniffed the air. There was a fragrance in the air that he couldn't quite place…It smelled like…

'Jasmine.'

But it was a different sort of Jasmine. This was…a person's scent and not merely a flower's fragrance. He pressed on. He stopped again; there was something else in the wind now…It was…it was a soothing voice…

A voice that resonated along the rocks…echoing endlessly throughout the quiet forest.

It was as if the winds itself was carrying such soft and melodious notes within its wings, spreading it around, all around the forest so that all who may hear it fall under its spell…The way he did.

He shook his head again as he focused on finding Sera.

He pressed on.

A few moments later, he found himself by the waterfalls. He heard her all the more clear now…His siren. Her voice was soft against the wind, her tones soothing to the ears and the soul…The words that flew from her lips merely floated within the breeze…encasing him in a protective love embrace.

It was…bewitching…ensnaring…enshrouded in mysterious twilight.

"Kotoba hitotsu sabishii yami terashi…"

"Uta tsutaete inori wo chikara ni motomeau…"

"Kodoku na tamashii ni kuchizuke…"

Cielo stood there up on a tree branch still entranced by the song when suddenly, he lost his balance and fell on the ground, landing on a last minute dignified pose.

He immediately cursed at his own stupidity and his pitiful display at lack of character. That, and because he heard a gasp.

He stood and there met gazes with his siren.

Blood rushed to his veins as he saw her, bare, standing by the shallow edge of the river, with the water only up to her waist. The moon had done her justice as it illuminated her majestically. Her skin sparkled in the moonlight, while creating a shadow on the other parts of her body, making her look all the more enigmatic…

Her silver eyes held his sapphire blues ones in a nervous and shocked gaze and so did his sapphire eyes hold her silver ones.

It was Sera. Sera…was his siren.

'She's…so beautiful…'

Blood rushed to his head as he realized that he had not only been staring at her eyes but also on her ample chest.

He immediately turned around and there, the moment of clarity was broken. She squealed. He then heard the splashing of water.

He remained rooted at his spot, his eyes tightly shut as he bit his lip, muffling his own words, "I am a gentleman…I shouldn't have seen that…!" he hissed at himself.

'But you have to admit, it was quite a sight!' his perverted self chirped happily.

'Shut up! Nobody asked for your opinion!'

'Hypocrite! You enjoyed it too!'

'…'

'I rest my case!'

He didn't know how long he had been standing there when suddenly a finger tapped him on the shoulder, "Cielo?"

He stiffened and turned around, blushing, "Sera…! Aah…Hello…! Er…what are you doing here?" he asked, glad that she was fully clothed now.

She frowned at him playfully, "I think you already know what I was doing in here."

He blushed harder and there scratched the back of his head, "I'm sorry! I didn't mean to…err…pry. I was just worried about you…You disappeared again! I didn't know…aah…well…"

She chuckled, "I forgive you Cielo."

He blinked, "You have?" he asked in disbelief, when he suddenly arched a skeptic eyebrow, "Why?"

She giggled, "You owe me for this." she told him mischievously.

He pouted, "I knew it! Okay…what do you want?"

She beamed at him, "I want you to teach me how to fight…!"

"What?"

She smiled at him, "I want you to teach me how to fight!"

"But it's dangerous! Aren't you content at just being at home?"

She frowned at him, "Cielo…please. I…I don't want to be a burden anymore…I want to be stronger. Please…You're the only one who could help me." she told him, her voice calm and steadfast.

Seeing the firm resolve in her eyes…as well as the subversive desperation, he knew that he couldn't refuse.

He nodded and gazed at her firmly, "Alright. I will."

End Flashback

And that was how it had been…He sighed though. Her voice was…amazing. He had asked her about it…

Flashback

The two walked through the forest, hand in hand. There was no malice in it…just pure innocence.

"Sera?"

"Hm?"

"What…what was that song back there…?"

"Oh…? That…that was the song my mother used to sing to my sisters and me…when we were but mere children."

"You have a beautiful voice Sera." he told her firmly as he stopped, looking into her eyes.

She smiled at him, "Thank you."

"Where is she now?"

Sera sighed, "She died…long ago…"

Cielo felt stupid at that moment, "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have asked."

She shook her head, "No…It's alright…That was the whole point of the song anyway…"

"Huh?" he asked her confusedly, scratching the back of his head.

She chuckled, "The song is in my native tongue…The song means that…no matter how far away a person is, that person is never really gone. He or she would always be with you…no matter where you are, because…because you are a part of that person you love…You are a part of that person as that person is a part of you. That bond…could never be broken; not by distance…and not by death."

Cielo's heart softened; if that were true then…his family would always be with him…Suddenly, hearing her words, comforted him. It made his burden…lighter.

"Thank you Sera."

"For what?" Sera asked, confused.

He chuckled, "For just being there."

She smiled in return, even if she did not understand him fully…

"You're most welcome."

End Flashback

Cielo blinked, shaking off his silly reminiscing.

He walked over to her and smirked, "Okay. That's enough for now. I'm hungry…"

"Oh! I made us some lunch! Come on!" she exclaimed happily as she dragged him across the forest.

Cielo chuckled. Sera was easy to teach; she had natural talent. She really tried her best and did her all in order to be part of their community. And the most important thing was that she was really eager to learn.

Yes.

It was official.

She had joined the Resistance and was put under his care. He was to train her and teach her the conduct and laws of their rebellious faction.

His smile widened as he thought more about her. She had had a grueling training the last few days. But aside her hard training with a weapon, she had also decided to undergo a more daunting task; a most dangerous endeavor. She had decided to learn how to cook. He sweat-dropped at that. As she explained to him before, she had been born in royalty…She had not even the slightest experience in such matters.

He once thought that it would be a challenge. But he was mistaken.

'Sera…' he thought with glee, 'You're really something…'

Sera's heart was overwhelmed with happiness. She had never before felt so invigorated. Soon, they reached their campsite and there, she led Cielo to their spot where their lunch was.

"Come…!" she told him excitedly.

Cielo snorted, "How can I not when you're dragging me this way?"

"I was just making sure that you don't get lost…" she replied coyly.

He wanted to comment on that but he couldn't as he found a lump in his throat. Why was that so?

'Because she's so pretty…' he told himself.

'No!' he shouted, 'She's a friend! Nothing more! She's…married.'

The two sat down and Sera immediately took a bowl and filled it with the stew that she had made for him. She handed it to him with a huge smile on her face, "Here…take this." she told him gently.

She looked at him with soft eyes…Before she came to the Resistance base, before she met Cielo…she had not sung a single note since the war…Her heart just felt too heavy…too sad and melancholy to sing. But now, she had felt so at ease with him…that she had been able to sing once more…

He brought her hope about her life…about her future…of what sort of a person she was become. She could feel herself changing…becoming stronger…and it was all because of him; him and his trust in her.

And that was why she had been able to sing again. He had unlocked and freed her from her prison of self-pity and despair. Seeing him strong, proud and gentle…made her aspire to be like him…

And because of that…her heart felt happy…and her song was free once more.

She blushed at that thought though; it was an embarrassing moment for her…But looking back at it now…she merely laughed at it.

Cielo took the bowl with both of his hands and bowed politely, "Thank you."

His words brought her out of her reverie and she chuckled, "What's this? You being polite…?"

He blushed, "In the presence of a lady, I should."

She blushed at that, "Oh you silly man! Enough of that! Eat your stew while it's hot."

Cielo chuckled and took a spoon and began to eat when his eyes caught sight of Sera. His eyes widened as he saw that she had collapsed.

"Sera!" he yelled and rushed over to her side.

He checked her pulse; it was strong. He touched her forehead and saw that she had no chills.

'She's probably exhausted…' he told himself.

He gently shook her, "Sera…? Can you hear me?"

A moment later, she opened her eyes and stared at him wearily, "Oh…Cielo…I'm sorry…I just feel…tired…and…dizzy…"

She passed out once more. Cielo cursed and picked her up in his arms and dashed for their HQ.

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Argilla sat on a marble bench by the gardens. She wasn't doing anything in particular; just appreciating those around her. She sighed as she felt overwhelmed by the scent of the flowers around her. The cool breeze played with her loose hair…letting her pink strands dance.

The sun felt warm on her face…

There was nothing but beauty around her. This was her home; she sighed. It had been a long time since she came there. A few weeks…seemed forever for her…

She closed her eyes and inhaled deeply and perked her ears up as she heard the birds chirp lively from the nearby trees.

"It's very beautiful here." a male voice said, waking her from her daydream.

She turned to see Serph with a smiling face. Argilla could feel her face heat up at that sight of him and so cast her head down.

He walked towards her and sat down beside her. He didn't look at her and instead focused on those things around him. She could tell that he was impressed and entranced by the beauty of her country.

A part of her suddenly felt…happy. She was happy that she had been right. There was something that was good within each and every person.

And Serph was no different.

He was able to appreciate beauty…

That was something special. She had mistaken him for an uncultured and heartless brute. But he wasn't.

Serph could sense her looking at him. He turned and returned her gaze, "What is it?"

She immediately turned away, embarrassed that he had caught her staring, "It's nothing…Serph."

She didn't know why, but she felt more comfortable with him now…rather than the times that they shared at Arkanadara. He had not been a brute to her…and she herself had not lashed out at him either.

She blinked at her own discovery; she blinked in surprise. Now, she could say, that she knew her husband better.

He was moody yes, but it was understandable. He was king after all. But one thing though, he was a real gentleman unless provoked. That was a theory that she had put to the test. And it passed.

He had been his gentlest with her and had been polite.

Serph saw the faint blush on her cheeks. His hand touched her chin and made her look back at him, "Argilla…"

She faced him now, but still refused to look at his eyes.

"Look at me." he spoke firmly.

She did as she was asked and there, fell within the abyss of darkness as his eyes devoured hers.

"Why do you hesitate?" he asked her.

Argilla's heart stopped; that was the question he asked her many moons ago…She blushed harder. Why indeed?

She said nothing and cast her face down again.

Serph frowned as he saw the look of shame within her features. He slowly tilted her chin up and once more, their gazes locked. His eyes stayed on hers, searching them for her true feelings; the feelings that she had thus far successfully concealed.

There.

He slowly smiled and spoke, "There's no shame in it."

Argilla felt the lump in her throat at hearing his words. There was no shame…She knew what he meant. There was no shame in falling in love.

Serph smiled again and leaned in. Argilla let him and felt herself doing the same. Their lips met. Serph's hands went to cup her face gently. His lips nibbled on hers and she moaned as she shyly parted her lips, her hands slowly feeling their way on his chest, making their way up to his shoulders where they stayed.

Serph kissed her passionately, slowly and deliberately. It was happening…Finally, he was succeeding. He pulled back and looked within her eyes; yes…there was no mistaking it.

She cared for him.

Not trusting his tongue to manage the moment, he wrapped an arm around her and pulled her against his chest. She didn't refuse him and returned his embrace, her face at the crook of his neck, breathing evenly.

There.

He felt her sigh a heavy sigh.

He stroked her hair, "There's no shame…"

She closed her eyes…

Yes. There was no shame…

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Jenna stared at the fabric in her hand. She had never really considered it before…But…the cloth did feel smooth to the touch. It felt…soft. She brought the aforesaid cloth close to her face and saw the refined stitching on it.

She was impressed; she had never really noticed it before.

'That's because…'

That was because she always spent her time burning them even before she could truly take a look at them.

But now…

'Would he…would he find me…beautiful should I…wear this?' she asked herself with unwanted giddiness as she thought about it. Both her sisters had adopted this apparel and had donned it with utter most confidence.

Their husbands seemed to approve.

And seeing them that way…it had always been a thought at the back of her head whether or not the sari would suit her.

But now, that thought was not a mere thought; it became an incessant statement that fought its way to the forefront of her consciousness.

And now, it was there, asking her. What would Gale say should she start to wear the sari?

She blushed as she imagined him looking her up and down, gazing at her appreciatively. She shivered as she shook herself off such thoughts, "W-what…?"

'Oh stop being such a sourpuss!' her inner voice said.

'Stop it and just do it!'

She stared at the sari again. Just do it. Yes. It was time that she listened to what she really wanted…and not just because of some misplaced values and principles.

Wearing the sari did not mean that she would abandoning her culture…It simply meant that she was appreciating the culture of whose house she was to marry into.

She released a breath; there was no debating over it. She stood and asked for her servants.

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It had been five days and four nights now since he had begun his search for his lost wife. But so far, nothing had turned up. He had passed himself off as a mercenary and had scoured village after village, looking for leads that might give him an indication as to where Sera might have gone.

But so far, there was nothing.

He had given up his position as Arkanadara's general for the time being. He had spoken to Serph about it and Gale as well and they both had given him their blessings. Serph nodded then, as he gave Heat his blessings. After all, destiny called in the most strangest of ways.

And this was it for Heat; to find Sera.

He frowned as he continued to walk through the filthy streets of the town. He narrowed his eyes though; he was to be ever vigilant in his search.

He was confident that he would find her.

There was no way that she was dead. No. The rebels would take her alive. They needed her. If she came with them willingly, she would be alive. They wouldn't dare kill an innocent. He laughed at that.

That was why he was going to find those rebels and kill them.

'They are too weak.' he said to himself.

And if Sera had been abducted, they would need her for information and will be used as a bargaining tool.

With her, they could probably think that they could get away with outrageous demands. Again, Heat laughed.

'Those fools know not who they are dealing with…'

With renewed strength, he continued his ever tedious search. He would find her.

'Hold on Sera…I'm coming for you.'

Why?

'Because I can't sleep…knowing that she's somewhere out there…unprotected.' he told himself angrily.

He had promised to protect her and that no harm would come to her…but now, she was somewhere that he could not reach; she was alone.

How was she supposed to fend for herself?

'She can't.' he answered simply.

She needed him. He just knew it.

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Sera fluttered her eyes open and immediately sat up when a hand pressed itself on her shoulder, halting her movement, "Whoa there…You shouldn't get up."

Sera focused her eyes and saw that it was Cielo. She smiled weakly as she lay back down on the bed, "What happened?"

Cielo smiled warmly at her as his fingers brushed some of her bangs from her forehead, "You were pretty bushed so you fell asleep. I had to carry you here." he finished with a chuckle.

Sera blushed and could only manage a low "Oh."

She turned away and narrowed her eyes. She had been useless. Again. When will she stop being a burden?

She sighed.

Cielo saw the look in her eyes and understood what it meant. It was a look of guilt. She probably felt bad for having fallen unconscious.

He draped a hand on her again and smiled as she met his gaze, "Don't blame yourself Sera. The body can only take so much. You have just started your training; if you over exert yourself, your body will fail. Take it slow. You and I have all the time in the world."

He paused and leaned in, "There's no rush."

He then placed a chaste kiss on her forehead and stood. Sera looked up at him, "Where are you going?"

Cielo grinned, "Me? Well, I've been assigned for a mission tonight. I have to get ready."

Sera's eyes widened as she looked out the window. The sun was about to set! So, she had been asleep for nearly half a day?

Cielo saw the surprised look on her face and he chuckled, "Yup. You've been asleep for that long a time."

Sera looked at him and saw that he was all geared for battle. He wore a black gi, his feet with tabi socks and his sandals. His long blue straight hair was set on a low ponytail.

She blushed; he looked…delectable.

Cielo turned from her and walked over to his closet where he pulled out something. Sera sat up and looked at him, wondering what it was he took out and what it was he was doing.

He turned around and startled Sera.

He chuckled, "It's just a mask Sera. Besides, you've seen it before haven't you?"

Sera blinked; yes, it was a mask. And yes, she had seen it once before; and she remembered it too clearly. It was a plain white mask with slanted slits cut for the eyes. To Sera though, the slits looked too evil, too mischievous rather than artistic. There were streaks of blue slashed diagonally across the mask that reminded Sera of lightning.

She blinked, "Does your mask have any significance?"

He laughed and nodded, "Yes. It does…I'll tell you about it at another time. But now, I must depart. I shall return before the sun rises. Until then Sera, be safe."

He then disappeared in a puff of smoke. Sera smiled as she continued to be amazed. But still, worry crept up her spine, "Take care…Cielo…"

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Serph sighed as he kissed Argilla's forehead. They had finished their dinner and they stood upon the balcony. He had been pleased. It was the time for peace. Arkanadara and Radhakrishna had forged a good relationship and had agreed to peaceful coexistence.

But for how long though…that remained to be seen.

However, he needed not worry himself about that at the moment. All that mattered was the time of peace that he was spending with his queen…

No…

That was wrong…

She wasn't just his queen…She was his better half…his wife.

He looked within her eyes, not intruding within her thoughts…or seeking her emotions. No; he simply…looked.

Argilla tilted her head to the side out of curiosity and blinked, "Sire…? What is it?"

Serph snapped out of his daze and looked at her again, "Your eyes…and your hair…They are…unique."

Argilla turned away, and nodded, "My mother gave them to me…"

Serph felt her uneasiness and so led her back to the chamber. He led her to the chairs and pulled one for her to which she sat.

He sat on the other one in front of her and spoke, "Go on."

She lifted her gaze from the floor and met his eyes, "My mother…had met my father by complete chance. My mother had been adrift at sea and was washed up on the shore. My father's party had found her…Well, my mother had no memory of her past, so, my father could not send her to where she belonged…Because, she belonged nowhere."

She paused here, in deep thought, and then laughed as she looked at him, "My father though, he found her to be very captivating…She had hair and eyes that he had never seen before…Well, he let my mother remain in the castle as his guest…But…after a while, they fell in love and married…"

Argilla didn't even know why she was telling Serph all of this…

But as she looked in his eyes, she could tell that she could trust him. Besides, it was a topic that she wanted to talk about anyway…

"Then…I was born." she paused and then continued, "But…my mother died at childbirth…So…I never really knew her."

Serph saw as her eyebrows creased together in firm resolution; he wondered if she was comfortable at telling him everything…

Before he could speak, she had spoken first, "When I was three, my father had married again and…well, there came Jenna and Sera."

She smiled tightly at him, "So, Sire, I really do not know how to answer your question. I knew not where my mother came from. So, I cannot tell you what I do not know."

Serph nodded and looked at her firmly, "I understand. One thing Argilla."

Argilla looked at him with a puzzled expression.

Serph nodded, "You are not bound to the fate that had befallen your mother." She gasped as she heard his statement. How did he know?

"Her fate was her own. You have yours. You need not be desperate of the past so that you may know the future. You loved your father's second wife, did you not?" he asked; his silver eyes piercing hers.

Argilla nodded, "I did milord."

Serph then stood, looking at her, "Then there is nothing amiss. A love of a mother is absolute…and at times, love doesn't require the ties of blood."

Argilla immediately looked up at him. What was he saying? How did he come to possess of such ideas? She was completely flabbergasted. She had never expected such words to flow from his mouth…Never from his mouth.

"All you need to know," he said, pulling her to her feet gently as he held her hands in his, "is that when you have a daughter of your own, you will pass the same hair and eyes…" he said, gazing understandingly within her pink pools, "and you will be her mother…You will not perish; you will not die and fade from existence in obscurity the way your mother did."

Yes. That was what he saw in Argilla. He saw that she was afraid to be like her mother. That, and that she longed for something that no longer existed.

He squeezed her hands tight, "I thank you for that My Queen." he said; happy that she had decided to confide in him.

He took her hands to his lips and kissed them. He raised his head as he returned her hands to her sides, "I shall return shortly. Until then, please think about what I've said."

Argilla was speechless.

Serph touched her face once more before nodding and walking away, leaving her in the chambers by herself.

After a few minutes of silent contemplation did a smile manage to curl up on her lips. He was right; on all counts. But still, she had not expected him to know of such things…

"There are many things in this world that I do not know…Perhaps, he is just one of those…" she spoke aloud.

She then remembered his other words.

"There is no shame in this…"

And again, there were no feelings of regret or shame. He was right. There was no shame. And just to herself, putting a hand over her lips, a small smile found its way there, "Thank you."

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Gale walked briskly along the halls. Jenna had summoned for him and it piqued his interest. Jenna never summoned for him. She never had. Why would she do so now?

He stood in front of her doors and stared at them impassively. He pulled them apart effortlessly and entered, "Jenna, why is it that you sum-?"

His words died at his lips as he saw the woman of his desires stand in the middle of the room.

There, in the middle of the room, stood his fiancée, not in her juni-hito with a painted face…but in a forest green sari. Her hair had been unbound and flowed freely…the way he saw it during their horseback ride in Shankara…

His breath suddenly got caught up in his throat and his breathing stopped as his eyes widened in stupefied bewilderment.

Jenna felt uncomfortable under his gaze…He said nothing but just continued to gaze at her deeply; looking at her from top to bottom, from head to toe…

She was burning inside and she suddenly had the urge to run.

A few more seconds ticked by and still, no words were expressed. Jenna fought with all of her strength to find the words, "Do you…do you disapprove milord?" she asked, with concealed and dignified stammering.

Gale was thrown from his statuesque state and blinked his eyes rapidly; was he seeing things? No…she was still standing there, within the sari.

Upon seeing her puzzled face and remembering her question, he quickly shook his head, "No…! No! Of course not…"

He walked up to her and took her hand, kissing it. Jenna blushed but said nothing; she had been afraid, for a while there, that he may have not liked the sudden change…and may even express repulsion or disapproval in her appearance.

She was glad that he didn't do that though…

"You…you look…You are…beyond words Jenna…" he told her truthfully, surprise still clearly evident within his emerald eyes.

Jenna licked her lips as she fought another surge of electricity within her body as his hand continued to hold hers, "Then…you approve milord?"

Gale was taken aback, "Jenna…You are free to do as you wish. Whatever it is that you prefer or decide to do, I shall support you to the best of my abilities…But should you ask me of my opinion about your…change," he paused as he smiled a bit, his cool emerald eyes beaming, "then I have no choice but to tell you that I am…happy."

Jenna, not being able to control her raging blood, turned away from him as a means of concealing her flushed face.

Gale draped a hand on her shoulder, "But I must ask you Jenna. What was it that brought on such a metamorphosis?"

'He was really dense…wasn't he?' she asked herself, rolling her eyes.

She crossed her arms and looked at him with steely silver eyes, "Gale, I want a successful unification of our countries. And I cannot do that if I do not assimilate myself amongst your people."

If he did not know Jenna as much as he did, he would've thought that she merely changed for the political aspect of their relationship. But he knew better. He saw it in her eyes. She cared for him.

Dare he say it; she was fond of him.

"Highness…? Then you mean…?"

She nodded as she smiled a bit, turning away.

Gale smiled in return; she was still shy after all. But one thing was guaranteed. She had agreed to marry him. And nothing else could make him happier.

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Serph touched Argilla's face gently as he laid her on the bed carefully as he straddled her. He could see the slight fear in her eyes and he smiled, "There's no shame…" he whispered to her.

He saw her close her eyes as she nodded feebly, believing him.

Without taking his eyes off of hers, his hands made their way to her knees, threading along the smooth skin of her thighs along the way.

He reached her knees and there, parted her legs.

She gulped and he chuckled, leaning his face closer to hers and pecked her on the lips innocently, "Calm yourself…It's just me." he whispered.

She nodded again and there, stiffened and then relaxed as she felt his manhood enter her tight passage.

Serph continued to look at her, his eyes flashing with desire as he eased himself on her. Soon, when he was fully within her, he looked at her again and saw that she stared back at him, expectantly.

He leaned in again and kissed her for but a moment before pulling back and moving slowly within her. Argilla's womanhood was tight and gripped his manhood tightly; too tightly.

Argilla moaned as he picked up his pace and held onto him, embracing him tightly as her legs wrapped themselves around his waist.

Serph went faster still and groaned as he continued to move to and fro within her. She too had succumbed to the call of pleasure as he saw that her mouth hung agape, her eyes dilating and her fingernails digging into his skin as he dove even deeper within her.

The couple moaned and groaned as they molded their heated bodies together. The air was cool as the rain raged on outside the walls extinguishing the faint body heat that they both gave off.

But Serph and Argilla were oblivious to the downpour though; they were completely detached to the crackle of lightning and the roar of thunder as they continued to make love.

Serph gritted his teeth as he felt the onset of the end come into being. He didn't want to leave yet…No…he didn't until he knew that she was to depart with him. There; he felt it. She was beginning to flare up…

Their pleasure was reaching its peak…its height…

They can't hold it in any longer…

And so, with one last thrust, Serph released his hot seed, rushing within her. Argilla embraced him as hard as she could as she herself felt herself lose all conscious thought…capitulating to the Absolute Power.

The two cried out each other's names as they walked into the gates of nirvana together…

Serph collapsed on her and she received him with open arms.

He was happy; no…he was ecstatic. He was ecstatic of how she had accepted him…He was ecstatic on how she trusted him. He was ecstatic on how she held him now as tight as she could…

He nuzzled his face to hers and a moment later, he pulled out of her and occupied his side of the bed. He turned to her again and pulled her tightly against him, his arm wrapped securely around her waist.

He pecked her on her lips again and there flashed his boyish grin. He then mellowed down his countenance and looked at her seriously, firmly, his eyes truthful and sincere, "I only care for your happiness…Argilla."

Argilla felt a lump in her throat as he uttered his silky words…She wanted so much to believe him. But what if it was just another of his diabolical mind schemes?

Sure, his words earlier about her mother were inspirational…and his treatment of her was gentle and affectionate…But it didn't change the fact that he was the same man who had forced himself on her and had conquered their country.

He sighed as saw the doubt in her eyes, "I love you."

She blushed but said nothing and had her hands press on his chest. Serph pulled her closer and whispered again, still as serious as ever, "I love you." he repeated.

He began to feel irked at her lack of response but as he peered within the windows of her soul, he realized that he needed not hear her response…for the time being.

So, he flashed his grin once more and just embraced her; burying his face at the crook of her neck, his hands sliding up and down her bare back.

He closed his eyes but he could not sleep. He had just told her his biggest secret…and yet, she did not return his feelings.

'Nonsense…She's merely looking for the right time.' he told himself.

A part of him felt afraid though. She now knew his secret. He vowed once to himself that she would never come to know of it…But as they shared nothing but blissful days together for the last few sunrises and sunsets, he felt himself slowly relinquish his vow…

And that was what he just did.

He held her tighter; no…she was just biding her time. He was sure of it.

Argilla blinked her eyes in the darkness as Serph continued to hold her. She was aware of what he had told her. She was shocked, to say the least…

'He…loves me…?' she asked herself.

'How could he?' a voice sneered from within her head, 'He doesn't even know what love is…'

Argilla's face drooped at that. Serph had freed her from her mother's shadow…He was the one that reminded her that love didn't always require blood…Blood wasn't always the symbol of a family…After all, she and her sisters were only related through their father.

And then, there was his virtue of truthfulness…

Not once did Serph lie to her. He had never been untruthful…

So…by that sense of logic, didn't that mean that he really did love her…?

Argilla's head began to spin as she thought more and more about it…Perhaps it was best not to think further about it.

'What is there to think about?' her inner self growled.

'Either way it doesn't change the way you feel about him.'

Yes. Her inner self was right. It didn't change even if she should air her voice or not…And that truth was simple.

She was in love with her husband.

'What about Roland?'

Her stomach churned at that thought, 'Not now…'

Ridding herself of the Roland's mental visage, she turned her attention to the man within her arms. She sighed in contentment as she realized that he was asleep. It was just then, when he wasn't conscious that she could really voice out what she thought…and what she felt.

She smiled.

She loved the way he smelled…She loved the way he felt against her…She loved how warm and strong his body was…always ready to protect her.

She sighed.

Perhaps…now…she would be able to say it.

"I…I love you…" she whispered in the dark and then kissed his neck before closing her weary eyes.

Serph smiled in the dark; he had heard her all too clearly…

And for the first time in a long, long time…his happiness was complete and undeniable.

oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Cielo slipped within the window as noiselessly as he could. He froze and smiled as he saw Sera asleep, her head resting on her arms on the windowsill. He grinned within his mask.

'She must've waited for me all night…' he thought knowingly. He turned to look outside and there he saw the gray and misty sky. The sun was just about to rise…

He kept his promise.

He carefully bent down and scooped her gently within his arms. He then walked over to his bed and set her down carefully. He then tucked her in within the blanket and slowly removed his mask, setting it down on the bedside table.

"You're really special…Sera…" he whispered as he lightly traced her face with his index finger.

He then straightened up and yawned; he hadn't a wink of sleep and now could feel the fatigue take its toll on his body. So, he proceeded out of the room, closing the door behind him gently yet firmly and settled on the floor of his house, among the cushions and fell right asleep.

Sera awoke a few hours later as the rays of the sun had penetrated the small room and had danced on her face playfully. She yawned and stretched her limbs.

She then froze; was Cielo home yet?

'He promised he'd return before sunrise…' she said to herself worriedly.

She immediately hopped out of bed and was about to run off when an object caught her eye. There, on the bedside table laid a mask. She smiled; it was his mask. He really was home. She then froze as she realized that she had awakened within the bed. She knew full well that she had fallen asleep by the windowsill…He must have carried her over to the bed and had taken it upon himself to tuck her within the blanket.

She blushed at that thought.

Shaking her thoughts from such things, she made her way out of the room and saw his exhausted sleeping form on the floor, his face buried within the pillows.

She made a pouting face, "Poor baby…"

She contemplated on moving him…but she reckoned that he was too exhausted to even move. The best she could do was to prepare breakfast for him or lunch…whenever he decided to wake.

She stopped though and knelt down, wanting to see his face. She froze as he stirred and there he turned his face towards her.

She blushed as she saw his childish face. His long blue bangs were on his face, tousled carelessly. His eyelids were steady; that was a good sign. He was fast asleep and was probably having a good dream.

His lips were set on a naughty grin though. Sera raised an eyebrow; yup. There was no doubt about it. He really was having a good dream.

And from the way he lightly moaned in his sleep, and the way his grin was curled upwards that would make even the most perverted bow on their knees, she really didn't want to know what he was dreaming about; but as sure as her hair was black, she knew that he was indeed having a wonderful dream.

Chuckling, she stood and prepared to leave the house to do her morning chores when his voice stopped her dead in her tracks. The word that passed through his lips nearly killed her with disbelief as her heart skipped a beat and her knees buckled weakly.

"Sera…"

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Heat petted his horse affectionately, "Good boy." he said soothingly as he mounted it again and rode off.

The sun had yet to rise.

He had been told that there was a village not far from where he was at the moment wherein the rebels had been sighted on multiple occasions.

'Those filthy rats!' Heat internally seethed.

Yes; they were rats. They acted like them. They hid quite well. Even in his undercover position, he had yet to meet a single rebel. It didn't smell good to Heat though. It felt funny…

'Something is afoot.' he thought knowingly as his instincts directed him.

He willed the horse to go faster as he rode through the greenery. He wanted to reach the town as soon as he could. He needed to find a job. True, that he had been able to sustain himself for the previous week by doing all sorts of odd jobs, but that was then and this was now.

It wasn't a question of money either; he could buy the entire town if he wanted to. It was just that, he needed to be inconspicuous.

And another thing, Heat grew bored easily. And it never bode well for those around him when he was bored.

That was the main reason.

Heat frowned as his face and his whole body beat against the wind. It was still drizzling but nonetheless, it didn't bother him. He was a soldier after all.

It was just that with each passing day that he could find neither hair nor hide of his wife, his spirit grew steadily weary…

It was as if she had taken with her a piece of him…

"Sera…Hold on…" he whispered against the wind.

oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Jenna laughed as she ate her breakfast with Gale.

She had admitted it finally. She did enjoy his company. It hadn't been the first breakfast that she had shared with him, but it was the first breakfast that she had shared with him privately.

A moment later, the servants took away the dishes and left the couple alone. Jenna looked away from Gale, focusing on the scenery out the window instead.

She couldn't bring herself to look at him. Her display the night before was still fresh within her mind.

"What are you thinking?" came the cool voice of Gale.

Jenna blushed as she saw that he was holding her hand…It had been a common practice for the both of them. She was surprised at herself as well. She had now become so accustomed to his antics that what she once considered as indecent and barbaric became something that she actually looked forward to; it became something that she…liked.

"It's nothing important Gale." she told him; her eyes cast down on the floor.

Gale raised an eyebrow, "I highly doubt that."

Jenna blushed harder and shook her head. In these sorts of situations, there was always one thing that Jenna was really good at doing; to obfuscate.

"Milord, how goes the search of the forests?" she asked firmly.

Gale blinked; oh yes. That.

"Slow, I'm afraid. There had been too little men that had been spared. Many of our troops had been deployed at the borders to secure them." He paused and looked at Jenna firmly, "You, as well as I, know how important it is to secure borders Jenna."

She nodded.

He sighed and set her hand on her lap gently before leaning back on the chair, his arms on the armrest, "Then, there are the imperial guards that maintain the peace here. Then…after that, there are the troops that had been sent to deal with the rebels…and those sent for reconstruction of fallen infrastructure. There really isn't anyone we can spare but a few men."

He touched his forehead, "And considering how large Ilvika and Asmana forests are, it would take a while to thoroughly scour the area."

He stopped as he saw the concentrated expression on Jenna's face. He licked his lips and continued, "Heat had left his position as general."

Jenna's eyes dilated, "Why?"

Gale looked at her impassively, "To search for your sister."

Jenna was taken aback.

'Heat did that…to look for Sera…?'

"Is this permanent?" Jenna asked, her eyebrow raised.

Gale shrugged his shoulders, "As long as the princess had not been found, he would not return."

Jenna blinked in surprise but said nothing, letting Gale continue.

Gale crossed his arms, "Well…that is the path that he has chosen. Then so be it."

Jenna felt her stomach tie itself in a knot. She couldn't believe that Heat would do that just to find her sister. Why?

'Don't tell me that he actually cares for her?! That savage brute!' she thought with condescendence.

Remembering that Gale was still present and wanting to get rid of Heat from her thoughts, she changed their object of conversation yet again, "Milord…our nuptials…" she trailed off shyly.

Gale touched his forehead again, "It is up to you when you want it done Jenna. But, I would prefer it if we should wait for the arrival of His and Her Majesties."

Jenna nodded; right. Shailendra and Argilla had left almost a week past. Gale then stood up, "In the meantime, you should brush up on your riding skills Jenna."

Jenna raised an eyebrow; it wasn't that she didn't want to. It just meant that she and he were to depart for someplace.

"Where are we going?"

Gale smirked, "I'll tell you in a few hours." He then walked up to her and again bowed before kissing her hand, "I shall see you in a few hours. Thank you for this most gracious audience milady."

Jenna nodded, "Farewell milord."

As soon as she was alone, her thoughts again wandered to Sera and Heat. Heat had done a lot and had made quite a sacrifice in order to recover her sister…

Jenna didn't want to admit it but…it resembled…love. She frowned; no it couldn't be love.

Could it?

'It can't be…' she huffed defiantly within her mind. For it were, then it would mean that she was mistaken about Heat and possibly the king as well.

oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Argilla smiled as she greeted the new day. It was a happy one but at the same time, melancholy. It was bittersweet.

This would be her last day at Flavius Adeodatus. She was to return with Serph tomorrow to Arkanadara.

She released a sigh and turned to her side only to find the bed empty. And on his pillow was a note. She took it and read what it said. She nodded; Serph had left to discuss important matters with the officials of the city.

Oh well…

Those things did not concern her…Not anymore.

And so, without further ado, she had prepared for the day. A few hours later, she walked the familiar halls of the castle with Roland in tow. She had been wearing her pink sari and stopped as she found herself by the gardens again.

She had been a bit disappointed though that Serph could not join her for breakfast. She knew that it was quite unlike her, but she no longer had any qualms on how she felt about him.

Yes. She was in love with him.

And so, she had wanted to spend time with him…The previous night was one of the most gratifying that she had ever had…He had been most gentle with her…and what really mattered to her was that…in that time…at that moment, she had really wanted to make love to him.

He didn't coax her; he didn't convince her…nor did he coerce her.

No.

'Last night…I wanted him.' she admitted to herself.

She closed her eyes though as she expected her conscience to lash out and tell her that she should hate him. But nothing came; all was quiet.

She clutched her heart and saw that it was steady…She smiled; her heart did not complain. She really did love Serph.

A moment later, she found herself seated on the bench when again, a presence caught her eye. She turned and saw Roland a few feet away.

She immediately turned away…No…She loved Serph…She should not be looking at other men…Most especially Roland. Most especially, when he had already rejected her.

She flinched at that thought.

Roland looked at his queen with cold and steely eyes. He had followed her everywhere and had made sure that she was safe at all times.

But as he gazed at her that morning; he saw something different with her. No; there wasn't anything that changed physically…but the change was there…on her aura. He just felt it. As he glanced casually at her eyes, he was surprised to know that she did not think of him…

She thought of someone else…

Aah…the king.

He didn't bother at that but again, as she ate her breakfast, alone, he saw how she looked longingly at the empty chair across from her.

And then, as she turned to him and told him that she planned to go to the gardens, he saw…He saw on her perfect pearly skin, on her neck, on the spot that was supposedly covered by her sari, a bite mark laid fresh and proud.

He knew what it was…

She was in love with the king. And now, as she turned away from him, he could only guess that whatever feelings she was having for him, she was rejecting.

He sighed; she was right of course. He himself had told her that she and he did not belong together…

'Then…why does it hurt so much…?' he asked himself.

Yes; it hurt him the way she didn't look at him. It hurt the way she didn't want to look at him. Now that the king had won her heart, he didn't really see any reason for him to stay…

The king was the best of warriors; he would be able to protect the queen…He would be able to protect the queen better than he could ever hope to do.

'Amadeus…'

oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Cielo stretched; he had just a good amount of sleep. He looked around and saw that Sera was not there. He walked over to the window and peered out. The sun was glaring.

Yep.

It was definitely midday.

Walking out of the house, he saw a water-filled barrel and splashed his face with it. He considered dunking his head in it but decided against it.

Sera might get mad.

Suddenly, he heard a giggle and he froze. She still had to tell him how she did that. Before Sera came, Cielo had never been snuck up upon. He was the sole master of stealth and used the shadows, bending it to his will.

But now…he had been outdone, not once or twice, but countless of times, by a girl who had neither the training nor the experience of stealth mastering.

He turned to her and grinned, "Good morning."

She giggled, "It's 'good afternoon'." she corrected him.

He snorted, "Whatever."

Sera giggled, "Come inside, I've made lunch." She disappeared through the curtains and he followed her, his cheeky grin still in place.

"Lunch? In the afternoon?" Cielo asked with an arched eyebrow.

Sera shrugged her shoulders, "Supper then."

Cielo opened his mouth to protest further when Sera's palm came up, "If you don't want your food on your face, I suggest you be quiet and just eat."

He sweat-dropped, "Yes ma'am."

Sera giggled at that.

They ate in silence when Sera suddenly thought of something, "Cielo…"

"Yeah?"

"Um…I…If it's not too much trouble…But…I'd like to go to town soon." she told him truthfully.

Cielo raised an eyebrow, "Huh? Why?"

Sera blushed, "Um…I need…more clothes…"

Cielo tilted his head to the side before blushing. Right…When he found her, she had nothing but the robes on her back. And up to now, she had only the old clothes and shirts that he had given her and some hand-me-downs from the elder women from the community…which, Cielo had to admit, didn't suit her very well…as the dresses were old and worn out.

Not to mention that some of them didn't even fit her; too big.

He scratched his head, "Town? Sure. But, you don't have to go. I'll get you whatever you need."

Sera blushed; it wasn't that she didn't trust him…It was just that…there were some things that she had to get by herself…

So, with a flustered face, she timidly spoke, "It's alright Cielo…Er…I really must insist that I accompany you."

Cielo looked at her as if she grew two heads, 'What else can she need? Shirts? Pants? Saris? And…?'

He suddenly blushed as he remembered the idea of "unmentionables".

Right.

"Ah…right…Hehehehe…" he laughed nervously, "Aah…I am going to town first thing tomorrow. Why don't you come with me then?"

Sera beamed, "Really? That's great!"

Cielo chuckled and his sapphire eyes regarded her mirthful countenance. He was glad that he made her happy…

It had been a while since he cared this way for anyone…

And he decided, that, feeling this way about her…was a welcomed change in his life.

'I'd protect you Sera…Forever.'

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A/N:

Gi: Garb worn by ninjas.

Tabi socks: Japanese socks that is split for the large toe when wearing wooden clogs or sandals.