"I wish people could understand that the brain is the most important organ of our body. Just because you can't see mental illness like you could see a broken bone, doesn't mean it's not as detrimental or devastating to a family or an individual. -Demi Lovato
O|===========|O
Sagittarius: More Than Gold
It starts off with a subtle crack that quickly jagged along the ground. The once solid earth beneath his golden boots split apart, causing his legs to spread farther apart than they already were. Aiolos stared hard, as Shura's hand was raised high, the technique already complete. Aiolos pushed his lip against his teeth, recognizing the smile that Shura flashed as the type each of them gave when anticipating the release of power. There was no time to fly. There was no point.
The bottom of his boots heated up quickly from the slight warmth to a blazing fire as light blasted him high into the air. The power was so great that he felt as if someone hooked his chest from heaven and yanked him as high as he could reach. He tried to use his wings, but the force was too great. Suddenly there was a bit of weightlessness like he was almost floating. He opened his eyes to see the Greek sky. For a moment, he forgot about everything.
The near stabbing of Athena, the reveal that Saga had been playing the Pope for who knows how long, or that the boy that he saw so much praise in decided to stoop so low as to hide behind a baby to avoid being killed. For a brief moment, all that stayed in the back of his mind.
O|===========|O
"Saga?" he spoke trying to do his best to hide any impatience in his voice.
The Gemini frowned as he raised his head from the large tome in his hands. "Why did you stop me? I still had 254,811 words left to go!" he snapped as an earthquake caused the room to tremble.
The doctor braced himself and waited for the room to still before he looked up. "I apologize. It's just that..."
Saga rolled his eyes. "It's not that long. The Old Man used to make me and Aiolos read books twice this size and four times more boring. The tenth circle of hell was when the two of us had to read Archimedes for a month."
The doctor remembered that. He thought ancient Greek theories on math to be absolutely fascinating and thought Saga would be too. Apparently that wasn't only false, but it was the first and only time Aiolos, who had no interest in either, actually failed to read his book on time. He was a bit surprised by Gemini's temperament, since he was far more respectful, even with strangers. These were antics he would expect from the younger Gemini and not the older. "Saga, you do realize that The Iliad is almost half that length. Even if you spoke quickly, it would probably take you about eighteen hours to read it aloud."
Little did the doctor know, he was merely testing him. A normal psychologist would normally wait for a few pages before questioning his purpose, yet he barely made it past three paragraphs. The psychologist seemed kind, but something was up. His mind didn't feel quite as sharp, as if he was moving through a dream. He felt so divided. He had already been used by the curse for eleven years, but his sense of danger was not being triggered as it did when his eyes turned red.
If he is to figure it out, he may have to pry a bit of frustration, a feat made more difficult by one of the most patient races out there. Luckily, he happened to have a younger brother who mastered such abilities to pull from.
The Gemini scoffed. "A mere drop in the bucket when we have all eternity in this place," Saga spoke as he grabbed another piece of candy, unwrapped it and popped it in his mouth before quickly churning out a paper crane and setting it on top of his five hundred others. Curiously, no matter how much he ate in the Room of the Golden Ball, he didn't feel full. Not only that, but these were candies that tasted like the kind from a stand that he and Kanon used to visit all the time due to how delicious they were. The problem was, the woman in charge suffered a heart attack and passed away over twelve years ago.
The doctor clutched his clipboard. "Saga, all I am asking is for a shortened version of it."
The Gemini sighed. "Fine," he groaned as he carefully tucked the hardback book in his shirt pocket and decided to further test this so-called psychologist and see the limits of his patience.
Sagittarius: More Than Gold (255,025 words shorter version)
We fought and he won.
Stole my curse, and that's not fun.
Now, he's an evil dick.
"Shit, one too many syllables," he quietly cursed to himself.
The doctor sighed as he resisted the urge to show any sign of frustration, a task more difficult after growing used to wearing a metal mask over his face for two centuries. "Saga, when I asked you to shorten it, that doesn't mean to turn it into haiku."
The Gemini rolled his head toward him, his eyes were a bit annoyed. "Why are you so invested in starting with what happened after Aiolos and Athena left Sanctuary? What about now? Right now Athena is alone out there! Paz is out there! By the twelve deities of Olympus, if I don't leave, I will be the first Gold Saint to fail both the real Athena and the fake Athena at the same time!"
"Easy Saga….remember…"
Saga rolled his eyes. "Yes yes… time functions differently...only ten seconds will pass." Unfortunately, he still felt very anxious about it. Until he goes out there, he doesn't know if what his doctor said holds water or not especially since he didn't quite trust him.
Dr. Krios can understand his anxiety. "That's right. As for your question, it's just very important." The truth was that despite having two hundred years of knowledge, the five-year gap was too great of a hole to leave. At the same time, perhaps he was demanding a bit much since he was still perceived as a stranger. "If you can't tell me what happened, could I at least hear why you don't want to talk about it?" He watched the Gemini shrink a little, but that was a good sign. It meant he was thinking about it and not just holding it in. It was a sign that he would disclose something but was carefully finding a way to phrase it. "Please, Saga."
For that moment, the Gemini dropped his own facade. That moment he woke up was so painful. What a coincidence. Aiolos woke up to his biggest nightmare of being paralyzed, and he woke up to the one he trusted the most, corrupted by the same curse that plagued him for years. He wasn't sure exactly how he felt about this Lemurian, but what harm could it do to tell him a little bit? "He told me things...that," he took a deep breath, "hurt."
The doctor turned to his clipboard and continued to doodle the mountain view of his former home. He was definitely listening but found writing notes primitive since it was faster just to memorize Saga's words. It was the last thing he would expect from the Sagittarius, but he had to play dumb. "Does he typically do that?"
"No, but the curse draws in one's inner thoughts...and without a filter, he spoke his heart."
"What did he say?"
Despite how much time had passed, the words struck harder than the arrow that went through his body. "He said, Oh Saga….you sound….worried…." he paused as his eyes focused on the wall behind his psychologist. Why does it seem like everywhere he turned, there was something new. It felt like the room was always shifting but at this point, he just went along with it. "Or just read that." He pointed past the mounds of candy from earlier toward the back wall.
The doctor turned and there it was, quilted onto a blanket that was hanging on a rod, each letter carefully stitched onto the fabric.
O============O
Oh, Saga… you sound….worried. Such a feeling doesn't feel good, does it? But I did it anytime you were late or weren't responding through a message through the cosmos, thinking you did something stupid like killing yourself. Of course, you never saw it! I would always be happy and relieved when you appeared or replied back with something like you were in the library. But fucking hell… anytime you were late I was messaging the entire Zodiac for the last person who saw you while praying my teeth out to our Goddess!
O============O
The Lemurian could easily recall all those times the archer would be pacing a bit in the Pope's Chambers only to find out that Saga was delayed due to something like Kanon accidentally grabbing his leather bag with his writing supplies instead of the fishing gear. "I can see why it was difficult for you to hear these words."
Saga nodded. "He was one of the few I was open up about my sadness. He would reassure me, that he was my friend and he would tell a few positive things about me and it helped. He never told a soul, but I had no idea I had been hurting him all this time. Why didn't he ever tell me?"
That was when Dr. Krios saw an opportunity. "Would you like to find out?" he asked he raised the two dots above his eyes. He watched Saga sit up before he gestured over toward the desk in the corner. The Lemurian stood up and with a light amount of telekinesis was able to walk over the piles of candy, confetti, and sparkles. He turned and could see the Gemini struggling, trying to move slog through it like he was stepping through deep snow, before he clasped his hands and pulled away, pulling the sweets from side to side in order to craft a clear path. "Come, let's go to my office." He spoke as he pulled the large bottom metal drawer to reveal a staircase before proceeding downwards.
Saga approached the drawer and leaned downwards. He felt his skin raise and tense as an icy cold gust caused his dark blue tresses to flutter.
O|=========================================|O
Gemini: Defying Gravity
4C: You Are Not Alone
O|=========================================|O
"Careful, watch out for those first steps. They can feel a bit steep," called the doctor in the pitch-black darkness.
Saga lightly burned his white cosmos and proceeded to step in, stumbling a bit, surprised at how deep that first step was. He took a couple of steps forward before his cosmos illuminated the doctor's chiseled features. Before the doctor gestured with his head to continue. He was a bit surprised that the doctor wasn't burning his cosmos as well. Lemurians are supposed to be naturals at it. Besides, it was just freezing here.
"Sorry if it is a bit cramped here. Clutter tends to accumulate over the years. If something tumbles, don't worry. It's most likely not important, especially the bills, taxes, and other documents. Just be careful of any photos," he spoke as the two descended deeper until they reached the bottom.
"Do you have any light switches or cosmos torches?"
The doctor shook his head. "I had some problems with the landlord from above. But that's alright, you'll have to provide some life for the two of us."
Saga was certain he meant 'light' and dismissed it, before burning his white cosmos bright enough to illuminate the extremely dusty room, or at least he thought it was dust. Strangely enough, everything was grey. Grey chairs, grey papers, grey carpet, and even the photos were all monochrome as if everything was devoid of color.
The Lemurian turned toward a shelf and gestured his hand. "Here, this is what we need. I guess we can call it: The Peep Hole."
"The Peep Hole?" Saga repeated. "Goddess, by the way you phrased it, makes you sound like a dirty old man."
The doctor shifted his eyes to the side a bit and shrugged. He turned toward the shelf and gasped. "Oh hold on."
Saga watched as the doctor turned toward a framed photo of a Chinese man with a mischievous smile, his white teeth gleaming, and a cocky raised brow. He was wearing only the lower half of his Cloth, exposing his sweaty, tanned, yet rock-hard chest, while casually leaning against a large Bengal as if it was the most comfortable place one could rest upon after a long training session.
The Gemini gazed at the lovely striped coat and began reminiscing of his beloved orange tabby in the House of Gemini. He was a self-admitted cat fancier and it was one of the few things he was fairly open to sharing. "Aww, what a cute tiger."
"Yes, he is quite a handsome tiger," the doctor spoke as he pushed it aside to reveal a small door with a little wooden knob. He watched the Gemini's hand approach it before gently tapping his shoulder. "Hold on, I need to reset it." The Lemurian spoke as he reached over and pulled a frame of a familiar chestnut-haired Prototypo with a red headband turned away from them. The doctor took a quick peek inside the door. He breathes a sigh of relief and stepped away.
Saga took a closer look at the photo. Aiolos couldn't have been any more than three or four years old, judging by how short he was compared to the familiar table next to him. Not only that but Prototypos didn't use cameras or any technology. His mind struggled to question it, but still he just blindly accepted it as reality. Part of the reason may be that he was curious about what was behind The Peep Hole and grasped the tiny wooden knob and pulled it open. The wider he opened it, the louder the sound of a baby crying became.
O|==============|O
Lucas stared hard as his mother laid there in her bed, her long curly blond hair, normally tied in a bun, was draped over her face as if it was a part of the thick blanket. The four-year-old turned his blue eyes turned toward the wooden bassinet as Theo, barely two months old, was wailing harder and harder.
He didn't understand.
He was told while Theo was in her tummy that when babies cry, it means they need your help and she won't play with him as much.
But now that Theo was here, she wasn't playing with him at all, but she was laying there and ignoring it all. He's done all he could, but he knew what he needed and he couldn't do it. "Mom, I changed him five minutes ago. I think he's hungry," he spoke as he walked over and began to pull her shoulder. He watched her shake her head no and tighten deeper in the blanket cocoon.
Never had the future Sagittarius felt more helpless. "Mom, he's hungry!" He begged. He hated diaper changing and hated washing them more, but at least he could do it. But this was something more difficult than that. "Mom! Mom! Mommy!" he called out repeatedly almost at the same pace as the wailing as his little brother. Lucas reached over and tugged harder, trying to pry her out, only for the one who would sleep with him when nights were scary, sing hymns of Athena, or tell him stories of the great Saints of the past, to slap his hands and push him aside.
Physically, it didn't hurt, but mentally, it made him cry.
The boy balled his fists in anger and stomped his foot. He was sick of it."Stop being sad! He's hungry!" the four-year-old screamed with tears in his eyes as the two-month-old wailed louder. "He's hungry!" he screamed over the crying, trying to get her to get out of bed.
"Lucas!"
An older man with dirty blond hair came inside. Covering him, was the old but faithful leather armor that was passed from his father to him. He was exhausted, having several eighteen-hour duties in a row, with only a couple of days to spend time at his home with his family, before he started the grind all over. He could hear his sons and it broke his heart, even though his sleep-deprived face couldn't show it. He watched his eldest seemingly tremble in fear, clearly understanding that yelling at an adult was disrespectful.
But he won't yell, or paddle his bottom. Lucas was doing more than he could ever ask for. It's not easy telling a four-year-old that he was to be the man of the house five out of the seven days of the week. Even more so when he's forced to be the mother as well.
The foot soldier, his feet like lead after standing on them all night, dragged himself over to the crib and lifted the newest edition to the family. Every time he sees Theo, the baby seemed twice his size as before. Of course, twice the size, meant twice the lung power. The way his voice boomed in the house, made him a true Leo. He quietly rocks him gently, but clearly wasn't soothing him. Theo cried harder as if pleading to him to offer a teat. Not wanting to let anyone down, he let's go of his pride and sings a song that was stuck in his head that the rest of his comrades sang off duty and off-key while adding a badly stepped waltz around the room.
A smile on his face, a bottle in his hand,
Wanders the Libra, from land to land.
He takes his tales in the bars, with his Lemurian friend,
He drinks and he drinks which never ends.
When night comes, and he's down on his luck,
He will toss a maiden into bed so they can…
The foot soldier paused as he turned to his four-year-old son.
...talk.
He hums the rest of the words, unsure of how to replace them. The baby never did stop crying, at least it was a little quieter. The foot soldier turned and could see that it at least produced a small smile at his eldest's face, which made him smile a bit too. Unfortunately, he will need some time to speak with Daphne to get her back to her normal self, and it may be more productive without the presence of children.
"Son, take your brother to the neighbors and get some from Lily," he whispered as he passed the crying child to the eldest.
The boy sighed, clearly upset by it.
Adam grabbed his shoulder. "I know. You had a rough day. We'll talk later, I promise," he whispered.
O|=============|O
(Goddess, except for the 5 o'clock shadow and the large scar on his face, he looks exactly like Aiolia.)
(He, does, doesn't he Saga?)
(It feels odd. Like Aiolia and Aiolos switched roles as well. Just another sign I am on an earth that rotates clockwise on its axis.)
(Wait there. There is a bit more.)
O|=============|O
Lucas sat on the wooden bench in the den, his thick traveler's cloak still on. He gently rocked his little brother, his belly finally satiated. He looked down at the baby's plump cheeks and serene expression. "You're a lot cuter when you're quiet," the boy whispered in a matter-of-fact tone. He felt a gentle tug from the tails of his red headband and knew right away who it was.
The foot soldier sat next to him. Normally when he did it, it produced a grin as wide as the horizon. "You alright, son?"
It was so weird hearing him constantly call him that. He loved his Uncle Adam, but now that he married Mom a couple of years after his dad died from a fall, it was a new normal that still took time to adjust to. He used to play with him all the time back when he was his nephew and let him play with his armor and spear. Now he seemed quieter and if he got in trouble, instead of telling mother, he would handle it himself. But he also liked this side of him too since Mom said he was a lot like his missing father. "I'm...sad...dad," he uncharacteristically muttered.
Uncle Adam sighed knowing why since it had been weighing heavily upon him too. "Your mother?"
The boy nodded. Lucas looked up, and the foot soldier always carried a worn expression and his face was half scarred now, he still had a glint in his eyes that let him know it was okay to be open about his feelings. "Why is she like this? Mom was so excited when she had him in her tummy, but now she won't take care of him. Sometimes...she says she hates him and later says she doesn't mean it. Why is she so sad? I don't understand."
The man brought his weathered rough hand to his bristled face. For him, it was a little easier since she did this before when Lucas was first born, but he could understand why the child was confused and upset about the situation. When she did the same with Lucas, he knew his brother Ellias felt alone and when they finally spoke with one of his friends, many of them opened up. They were both surprised at how common yet hidden it was for their wives to act like this, even if it seemed to be at different levels. At least now, he had the knowledge now, to let his son know and how to handle it."Some mothers… have the moods after having a baby." He spoke in an easy and gentle tone. "Don't know why, but it happens… not just to us. But, she needs our support, and with time it can go away."
"When?" Lucas was quick to ask, pleading with his tired blue eyes after being forced to make multiple runs to Lily with his little brother just about every night while his dad was out. Not only that, but he wanted his old mom back.
"Well… when she had the moods after you were born, I would say a few months. But I know a couple of my comrades where their wives suffered the moods for over a year." The boy turned downward from hearing that. "I wish I can help you more with this. But winter will be here soon, the game is looking to be a lot thinner. The weather had been terrible this year so your mother couldn't dry out as much food. I will need to do some extra shifts so we can buy enough to make it until spring."
"I know. It's just… embarrassing going over there," Lucas' eyes saddened. "Yiorgos makes fun of me when I pass his house to get to Lily." His sadness transformed into a frustrated frown. "He asks if I do it just so I can see a woman's tits," he rolled his eyes while his tiny voice mimicked the sass.
Adam could feel his blood boil. His son had more piled on him in a day and he'll be damned if other kids think it's hilarious. "I know his dad. We both work the same midnight shift. If he hears his son acting like that, he'll give that piece of shit the belt and make him think twice the next time you need to take your brother for a feeding to survive."
"Language, Dad," Lucas waved his finger and pointed to the baby. "When the helmet comes off-"
"-my mouth is shut." Adam chuckled. It was clear the youngest really has taken over Daphne's role. "Yes, dear."
Lucas smiled, but it faded. "I wish Mom was back to normal."
He reached over and patted his back. "I know. Me too. It is hard, but you really are doing a good job, and even if she doesn't say anything, your mom thinks so too." He gazed at Lucas' face. Everything from the hair color and the red headband reminded him of his deceased older brother. "Your Dad would also say the same thing."
The four-year-old smiled at the compliment but saddened again as he stared at his brother's sleeping face. "I love my brother, but I miss playing with my friends." He turned downwards. "I wish he did more than eat, poop, and sleep. Why does everyone think that's cute? It's kind of boring." he spoke with an unabashed tone.
The foot soldier chuckled. "Maybe, to you right now. But later you'll understand."
"Well right now, I understand it's hard," the child retorted.
A small pang of guilt struck the soldier. He told Lucas a few months ago that he was going to have to help out with taking care of Theo. However, since the moods started, it went from Lucas simply bringing in water or a fresh cloth for diapers, to doing everything, from changing and washing diapers, to baths and now feedings. "I know it's hard, but it will pay off. Theo can't do much now, but when he's older and more independent, he'll always be there, to play and support you when you need it. The bond between brothers is one of the most powerful things out there."
Lucas looked up. He didn't know much about the rules of conversations and simply blurted what was in his head. "I wished she also stopped saying mean things to herself. Like saying she's the worse mom or she gave birth to an awful baby." The four-year-old shook his head. "She doesn't mean it, does she?"
The foot soldier drew his hand to his face. He was so tired. On days like this, they say if Hades attacked, the men were so exhausted that it would be difficult to tell the difference between the forces of Athena and the Skeleton soldiers apart. His feet had blisters on blisters and his shoulders ached so much from carrying so much equipment that he didn't need. But Goddess, sometimes he would give anything if he could just be here even a day earlier just to help his family out. "That's just the moods, son. I told you, she doesn't mean it. She thought he was beautiful when he was born."
Adam paused in thought. "She's very sad right now. Try to cheer her up. Tell her you love her and I'll do the same."
"She keeps saying I'm lying," Lucas muttered painfully.
"I know. It hurts a lot. She tells me the same thing too. But trust me. Just keep it up. Even if she dismisses it, she does appreciate them. You know what she is really like. So do I. She had them before with you, and even if you don't remember them, you still have the memories in your heart about how wonderful she was."
O==============O
The image froze and seemed like an unofficial cue for Saga to close the door. He felt bewildered, as if he was in the room with all of them, with him being a silent specter. How could he see that? It was like traveling back to the past or perhaps reading one of Aiolos' old memories. "I...always wondered why he was so...maternal with Aiolia. He...didn't have a choice back then."
"No, he didn't," spoke the doctor. "It put a very unnecessary strain to where he not only had to serve as the man of the house when his father was on seemingly long tours of service, but he had to take the role of his mother as well for a while."
Saga felt a bit of illness and drew his hand to his forehead. "I used to call him mother hen, but I never knew. Now I wish I could've taken it back."
But the Lemurian didn't bring him there to cause more guilt. Goddess knows that Saga was already drowning in it already, and knew that Aiolos would be against the idea that this memory of his was used to craft more sadness. "Was he ever insulted by it? Did he ever show shame anytime he was around his little brother?"
"Not at all," the Gemini replied quickly. "In fact, it's quite the opposite. He's spoken many times about how he should step back, but has trouble doing so."
Dr. Krios nodded sagely. "He gained a bond with his brother that despite the turmoil that occurred after his run with Athena, persevere when with anyone else would've faltered."
"Yes, it did." Saga bit his lip. Aiolia gave out Aiolos' Japan location and rather than feel betrayed, the two merely worked upon it and forgave each other. Kanon talked about taking over Sanctuary, and he just tossed him in Cape Sounion as if he was dead to him, even if he still loved him deeply in his heart.
The Lemurian continued. "It wasn't just the bond with his brother. Compassion is not something one is born with but shaped through experience. You saw his mother. If you didn't know better, she would seem to be neglectful and perhaps hateful."
"If that was my first impression, yes, it would be. But Aiolos spoke nothing but good things, especially on anniversaries and holidays. I assume she was able to get herself together by the time the cub was one year old since that seemed to be the point in Aiolia's life that Aiolos would talk about her the most." In a way, it explained why despite family being important to the archer, details about when Aiolia was a baby were extremely sparse, a fact he found quite odd. A pity that his mother didn't have access to one of his programs that he established during his time as Pope. He had one in place that dealt with the astonishingly high rate of depression for Amazons when a simple Rodario woman begged for one to help the common folk.
Dr. Krios nodded. "You are quite perceptive. While she got better with each day, it wasn't until nine or ten months in Aiolia's life before she became the beacon he spoke of dearly and who would later use her body to shield and save her children. It was a hard time in his life. But it also taught Aiolos to understand people have moments of darkness, even if sometimes if it isn't so obvious. It is why he doesn't like putting people down. It is why his smiles are genuine. Not out of naivety, but because he understood how invisible, yet how painful, sadness could be and he would later apply it to those who he spoke to but especially, his best friend." He watched Saga's shoulder's slump. "What's wrong?"
The Gemini's eyes turned downwards. He still couldn't get over the way he forgave him. It wasn't just for the fact that he did so, but because Aiolos truly did let it go over what had happened, that there was nothing for the dagger to twist.
How ironic. A psychologist is here trying to get him to understand him, and instead, it made him understand why he treasured the Sagittarius' presence and how much it crushed him when such a beautiful soul is taken away.
"What good did it do? All it did was make him blind that his best friend was beyond help who dragged him into the shadows and made him a monster too," he took his fist and was about to slam it into his own palm in frustration when the insane reflexes of the doctor blocked it. He turned upwards when his eyes met the Lemurian's concerned gaze.
If only the Lemurian could let the Gemini know that he only discovered Athena's Gambit after the fact. If he could, he would cry with the Gemini, at what happened to his beloved successor and perhaps they could pray together that her wisdom will guide him back to his old self. But he had set his plan long ago. The same curse that prevented him from helping the Gemini earlier, has claimed another. However, in his heart, he was certain Athena would want nothing more than for him to continue the path, despite the beating of it had ceased five years ago. "Aiolos is many wonderful things. He knows to be patient. He tries to be uplifting. He clearly will support his friends to his last breath. But, while Aiolos is your friend, he isn't a psychologist."
The Gemini turned his head. "What good would a psychologist do? We've been in your office for hours and I am no different." He heaved, watching his breath pass through his lips and cloud the air in front of him.
The doctor gazed at him. "Everyone finds themselves in a dark pit. Some are deep, but others are shallow. That's just a part of life.
Aiolos is the hand that reaches down. He'll pull you out, that's what a good friend is for and you will do the same. That is friendship. A very good one at that, one that I hope you never lose.
But not every pit that a person stands in is the same.
If the pit is too deep, his hand will never reach you.
The problem is that depression is not the pit.
The pit is sadness, it is normal in life.
….
…..
….
Depression is the shovel and you refuse to let go of it.
And as long as you refuse to let go of it, you refuse to stop digging deeper until your grave is complete.
The only way to help you to stop is for me to be there.
"To take away the shovel?"
No, for you to choose to let go of it, and find your own way out.
There can only be one person at the bottom of the pit.
A psychologist is like a...spirit. There for guidance, to work with you, because you can do it on your own.
Saga stood there. The Gemini could see where the doctor was going. But there were too many important things going on beyond his sadness. "Why can't you just tell me what to do, instead of spinning parables."
Dr. Krios took off his glasses. "Most psychologists don't, but you've always found them amusing." He could see Saga's gaze linger. He knew what he was thinking, for it was the same thoughts he's had throughout.
"I...knew it…" he whispered. "It all makes sense…" he shook his head in absolute disbelief.
The doctor paused, a bit surprised. "What does?"
But Saga continued to shake his head. "How...could I be so blind?" his voice cracking at the absurdity of it all.
The Lemurian twisted his neck and pulled the collar of his shirt. "Saga, what are you talking about?"
The Greek folded his hands behind his back. "The naivety game works as well with your sophisticated tongue, as a grown man trying to snag the attention of a woman by using baby talk. Your act will fool me no more!"
The doctor thought he had placed enough mental blocks on the Gemini to conceal his identity. Did he truly figure it out this early? "What act?" he lied.
"Oh please. Isn't it obvious?" he then proceeded to name the reasons.
-When you asked me to recount what happened during Aiolos' run with Athena, you didn't have nearly the patience you should have for this type of work. Of course, I had no intention to read for eighteen hours. A seasoned psychologist would see through my farce, and question why I would do it or allow me to do so until I give up. Instead, you straight up asked me to stop. It is almost like you were winging it… like you mimic the ways of a psychologist.
-You just now admit that psychologists typically don't use parables...as if you were not one of them."
The Lemurian shut his eyes and focused his mental energies upon the Gemini. When in doubt, force him to overthink his answer.
Saga continued. "I went to the lobby, and the secretary didn't ask for any sort of payment nor had any means to tender any cash... because there was none….your services are free, despite it is clear that this is no charity.
But the most damning evidence of it all is this place. Your office.
-It is hidden in the worst spot in the building.
-It is cramped.
-It is dark.
-It is cold and it is very dead."
Dr. Krios gritted his teeth harder, as Saga pointed at him.
"You can't hide your identity anymore.
I knew it! In my heart, it was you all along.
You
are
NOT
a psychologist!
Without a shadow of a doubt, you are…"
DING DING
Saga blinked."….an unpaid college intern!"
The Lemurian breathed a sigh of relief. That was very close. Too close. It was no wonder the Gemini held off such a powerful curse for so long. Despite every attempt to force his mind to accept the reality of the Room of the Golden Ball, the Gemini was able to fight it off. Perhaps it was his highly disciplined training. Perhaps he underestimated his ego. Perhaps it was both? Either case, he definitely shouldn't take Saga's mind so lightly, despite him being human. "You got me."
Victory was his!
He knew there was something off!
His gut was telling him it was someone he knew, but careful examination of the evidence under a magnifying glass revealed the cracks to his tale. Besides, he killed Shion so it couldn't be him.
Now that he was triumphant, he softened his gaze. Despite the facade, the man seemed to be with good intentions. "Why didn't you tell me earlier?"
"I wasn't sure-" the pseudo doctor paused. Even if Saga came to the wrong conclusion, he didn't want to risk the Gemini's mind booting him out before his work was done. He was going to have to think about how he could make this work. "-how you would react if I didn't have my degree...yet."
"I wasn't angry earlier because you are young and didn't have experience. You were asking me to open up, yet it was clear that you weren't being as honest and open," he calmly emphasized.
"I apologize." the doctor lowered his head and bowed. "You are correct, and it was a terrible mistake on my part. I may not have a degree...yet, but can we at least continue?"
At the moment, Saga wasn't sure how to respond. He didn't want to continue, not because of the deception, but the curse had gripped his friend and he shouldn't spend time sitting on a couch as it was eating away his soul. But Athena, somehow gave her blessing, albeit in the form of a pencil sharpener with a divine aura.
Goddess, he really hoped that if he ever gets out, no recorder ever asks him to recount that part… or any other part of this strange place.
But, it was very obvious that this college intern was the only way he could return back to the real world. Despite his serene appearance, his fighting was near perfection. He knew, for he had either fought or observed, many other Saints and could tell that each block was centered, his reflexes never wavering, without even allowing a single hair to move astray. There's only one other he's seen and fought who could come close to that, or at least he used to until he became paralyzed.
"Saga? Is it alright if I may continue with your session?"
The Gemini chewed his lip. While this room of the Golden Ball was very peculiar, at the same time, it wasn't dangerous. He turned to the Lemurian and folded his arms. "Would you promise me, that you will always be open and honest?"
The doctor turned to his hands, devoid of wrinkles, blotches, and varicose veins. As he told every Gold Saint and trainee, their bodies will be the greatest tool they will ever own, and one that they, himself included, will take for granted until it is gone. This is the form he chooses, but its own presence is a betrayal. "I'm sorry, but I can't promise that."
"Very well. I suppose it's time we go up and continue."
The doctor was curious. "But, I told you that I can't always be open and honest."
The Gemini shrugged. "Name one person who can be? The truth is if you would've said yes, then I know...I shouldn't trust you. By telling me no, it's a sign that I should give you a try…with or without a diploma. " he produced a cheeky smile. "As you said, I enjoy parables. Now come, let's go upstairs. It feels like a coffin in here." He spoke as he ascended the stairs.
The Lemurian gave a small smile. Apparently, the Gemini did recall the lesson about not having to always be perfect. He may have always followed it, but it was good that he kept it in his heart.
O|===========|O
Once he reached the top, his eyes scanned the room and was surprised at how clean it was. Secretary Not-Crane-Yuzuriha was kneeling by the table and was carefully cleaning each of its adornments. "It looks nice here," Saga complimented.
"Thank you," she spoke as she took the golden ball, buffed it against the strips of cloth that wrapped around her chest before she set it back on its pedestal.
He could see a vacuum full of glitter and confetti in its transparent container. He turned his head from side to side. "What happened to all the candy?"
At that moment, she coughed once, and a wrapper blasted out of her mouth before she took it, folded it into a miniature crane, before walking over to the window, opening it up and allowing it to fly away.
The Gemini stared at the sight before Dr. Krios came up from behind. "We believe in running an environmentally sustainable office," he spoke.
Saga nodded. "Ah,I see!" He spoke as he accepted the answer and headed over to the now tidy green couch.
The Aries returned back to his chair and set his clipboard back on his lap. "Now, Saga. I know I am not the most qualified to do this...yet, but could you please recount what happened after Aiolos made his run to me?"
Saga nodded. He did feel like he was a bit more comfortable now that he knew the doctor a little better. But still, it would mark the second time he had to talk about the past five years. He took a deep breath. For some reason, he would think it would be easier to tell a total stranger versus speaking with his old friend who was involved with it. Yet for some reason, as he gazed into the bright violet eyes and serene expression, he found it...harder.
Dr. Krios can see it too. It was just how Saga was. Like a true Gemini, he always saw him as an extroverted introvert. He kept a very close set of friends but will be bold for an audience of his choosing. He attends gatherings, but he doesn't work the room. Right now, that side of him was showing now. Even though it would be easier for him to speak if he didn't see his true face, but it was probably still a little difficult since they weren't well acquainted either.
But he knew him and he knew personally what could soothe the Gemini's nerves. He walked over and sat next to him on the couch, reached into his pocket and pulled out Hera, the Gemini's large treasured orange tabby and sat her on his lap.
He stroked her fur. It was so soft like pure silk. Best of all, she wasn't shedding nor turning in a way that stuck her rump in his face when he's been away for a while. Instead, she purred, rubbing her head eagerly at his hand when it wasn't busy stroking her back. "Hera, watch your claws!" he spoke before the cat turned and immediately retracted them as they were sinking deep in his trainer pants. "Good cat, here." He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small fish that flopped in his hand. He brought it to her mouth, watching her whiskers twitch before she slurped it up like spaghetti from his hand. He turned up and recounted his tale, the same way he did with his archer friend, except he added the things that he learned from that day, about how Aiolos was in Japan the whole time, and about the paralysis.
The Lemurian listened attentively, not adding too much except for simple comments here and there. Even though the golden ball did allow him access to the Gemini's memories, he was careful not to use that feature too much. He was glad too. Saga's mental barriers were fairly top-notch, but that was a good thing. The Gemini Cloth had a high resistance to curses, but the user was equally important. Besides, it wasn't just important on what he said, but how he said it. He can easily tell which parts in the past would cause bouts of glee and other bits that caused him to shy away from.
But as Saga grew closer to the present time, his voice began to grow more hushed and stilted before he stopped speaking altogether.
The Lemurian knew what had happened this point. He could see everything Saga could see once the golden ball was inserted into his mind. However, part of the healing process, was that Saga must admit what occurred, no matter how painful it may be. "What happened after you woke up Saga?"
The Gemini sighed, feeling his stomach turn. He laughed a bit but then, shook his head. He stood up, causing Hera to roll off his lap and bounce on the carpet like a tennis ball. He paced back and forth a bit before he folded his arms. "I remember that moment very well," he spoke before he spins his tale of a happily ever after ending of how Aiolos wasn't cursed and neither was he.
This time, the doctor waits. He knew it was a lie, but as Saga already told him, a psychologist was patient. He waits until Saga finishes and gauges his face. There was a slight smile, but it was full of sadness and heavy with guilt.
Finally, the doctor looked up. "But that's not what happened, is it Saga?"
Saga shook his head no as his body began to shrink. "No doctor, it wasn't. But it's nice, isn't it? How I wish that everything I spoke, every word I write would come true. I wish I woke up and all my problems went away," he spoke as he pulled off his trainer and revealed his Kido International School uniform, his voice losing it's baritone, resorting back to it's high pitched zeal of a six-year-old Moderno.
Khristopher leaped onto the table, lost in the fantasy he had crafted. "Aiolos would be healed! He could run and do cartwheels! Shion would be alive! Athena would rule! Paz wouldn't have been abandoned and she could reunite with her brother and twin! Kanon would be found! He would forgive me for Cape Sounion and if I could have a chance I would forgive him for his thoughts of trying to take over the world," he grinned as he raised his arms in the air. He took his arms and folded them across his tiny chest. "Goddess, I still remember my little brother's words," he muttered.
Kallen, opened up the window and poked his head out. "Kill him and I will replace the Gemini slot. The Zodiac remains," the cheeky younger twin cried with a smile and a grin before he dropped backwards, followed by a large splash of water.
The six-year-old ran over and jumped, twisting so that his bum landed on the couch with a carefree bounce. "Maybe everyone will forgive each other and we're all friends again!" he grinned wildly as he sat next to the Lemurian, before he turned to his face. He gazed into the serene expression before turning his head away. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a bottle and tried to pour out a pill but sighs and tosses the bottle and threw his hands on his face as the euphoria of the manic episode began to fade. He shook his head and unbuttoned his jacket and tossed it carelessly away, returning back to his trainer and twenty-year-old body.
The Lemurian turned toward the sun outside, as the light began to flicker like a dying bulb.
"But...that's delusional, isn't it? But that doesn't make curses go away. Problems don't go away because you wish them too either.
But what if one's self was the problem?
I am the problem.
And as the problem, if I die…
The problem, therefore...goes away.
It is so logical if you think about it.
If I have the curse and I die, the curse would be gone! Afterward, Aiolos could show the world that I, the problem, to begin with, was the villain behind the mask and he would at least be a hero!"
Don't you see it? That is why I must kill myself! What exactly have I accomplished! I have failed at everything! My life is worthless, but my death would have meaning and purpose!"
The room's brightness began to dim until it was dark once more. The Lemurian had lost track of how many times he would find the Gemini in the shadows, just laying around while the world moved on. People found this strange habit of Saga's strange and peculiar. But he didn't.
How was it different than all the times he would spend sitting at his desk, doing nothing except thinking of how unfair it was that all his friends were now dead and gone and somehow he and Dohko survived?
Even though the darkness does bring a sense of comfort, it was still important to return back to the light, slowly and carefully. He turns his head. "Saga, you are right. You can't wish problems away, but they also don't go away just because you die, either."
The Gemini nodded, but still, he would not turn toward him.
The doctor continued. "How would your death bring back Shion? He is not a tree to which your remains would fertilize and help it resurrect anew.
How would your death prove to the world Aiolos is a hero?
Humans are very skeptical. I know quite well. He could summon every single person in Rodario and the Order to the square, show every speck of evidence, craft a video of the whole ordeal while having your soul scream every confession you made and there will still be many with doubts. There will still be many in the crowd who declare that Aiolos is lying to save his own skin."
The Gemini drew his hand to his face. He knew it to be true. As Pope, he had to attend many festivals and gatherings. The people not only hated the Sagittarius for what he did, but they also loved to hate the Sagittarius and would openly mock him with cardboard wings and ragged headbands. Some even made a living out of it. Some mothers even considered it a curse if their child was born during the sign of the Sagittarius and would even lie about their births just to get around it. In fact, no birthdays seemed to be celebrated between November 22 and December 21.
One would think that as the Pope, he could just ask the locals to stop. However, any attempts to do so were met with jeers and rebellion, since it was seen as supporting the one who tried to kill baby Athena. The curse, always seeking self-preservation, would even undo any attempts to end the open mockery of the Sagittarius. He knew. He would craft legislation and would blink to find it torn and burned or if it did pass, there was a counter bill that undid the previous.
The Lemurian watched as Saga was breathing a bit quicker now. Time flowed differently here, but it still flowed. Here, the mental breakdown the Gemini slowed down to the point where he didn't even know he was going through it. He slowed his reaction, and now it was time he goes through it. "Unfortunately, that is how fragile the truth can be and once it is fractured, sometimes it can be nearly impossible to show it in its perfect form."
Saga cried. As he did so, the blood from his own body when Aiolos' light arrow pierced him began to show up on his trainer as well as his hands when he was trying to stop the hemorrhaging of blood from the Goddess.
When the Gemini leaned over into the Lemurian's side, that was when he reached over and gave him the comfort he needed, rubbing his back. "And yes, while the past Popes had used the twins of the house of Gemini to sacrifice one and use the other to continue the order, that doesn't mean the curse will go away upon your death either. Your death does not end the curse but merely delays it. Whether it be him or some future child, all it causes it to do is…"
"Pass it on," Saga muttered, as the faithful moment echoed in his mind...when he learned of the moment, his best friend had lost his soul. At that moment, he began to choke on tears and he just couldn't stop even though he needed to. "...have to go back… have to go back…"
The doctor shook his head. "Not like this!"
"He said to get Athena out… keep her safe from him...but she's alone," he began to hyperventilate, wishing he could just see what else was written.
"Saga...think about it. You had lived with the curse for eleven years. Do you know why you broke down as you did? Because that is eleven years of your life, where you learned to cope with stress by having the curse take over whether it controlled your mind or blacked everything out. It has held its grip on you so tightly that the moment things grew bad, you were having trouble handling it. That's already on top of your condition." The Lemurian pulled the Gemini's shoulders toward him.
"What condition?" Saga muttered, his eyes gazed passively.
Dr. Krios turned toward the empty bottle in the corner. "You know what it is, even if being a Gold Saint forces you to hide it in the name of perfection."
O|==============|O
The blue bottle flung across the room, striking an electric mixer before spilling the tiny blue and white pills all over the kitchen floor.
"What the hell is wrong with you! Why the fuck did you take them there! Did anyone see you?" screamed Dimitris as he grabbed a ceramic mug from the countertop and threw it at his wife.
She ducked, flinching as the cup shattered and struck her shoulder, while still gasping in horror at his reaction.
The blue-haired mother of the twins slowly stood up and carefully set the papers aside. "No, of course not! But I had to take them. Their...teacher was concerned. He would just cry at random times...without warning. And Kallen...I..." She touched her chest, overwhelmed at all the trouble the younger twin was causing. "I...was concerned."
"So why didn't you tell me!? You don't think I shouldn't know where all of you were at?"
She clasped her fists tightly, her eyes shifting back and forth from the table to the floor. "If there was nothing to worry about… then there would be no need to tell you," she gestured over toward the pile of tests. "They told me, that with an eighty percent certainty, Khris showed signs that he's…."
"HE'S NOT! HE'S FINE!" Dimitris paced in the room like a dragon, his breathing ragged before he took his foot and slammed it into the cabinet doors. "If people find out he's going to see a psychologist, they'll think he's insane."
She shook her head. "They won't find out."
"Where do you think we are? This is Rodario. Do you think they will keep it a secret like any other place? They will find out. He won't be able to get a job or be accepted anywhere. Sending him there and getting a diagnosis is admitting that the only twin that's worth a shit is a monster!" snapped the Moderno.
Kallen rolled his eyes before imitating his father and kicked the wall, leaving a thick boot print on the side.
Vasiliki drew a hand to her head, the sweat of her fingers smearing the careful layers of makeup. She ignored her younger son, knowing it was for attention and continued on. "I know…" she didn't need him lecturing about how hard being an outcast was, despite her new-found success too. "I was upset when they told me too. But they said, with continuous treatment, he's young enough and it's mild enough that they don't even have to give him much. There's a small chance he could even grow out of it, but even if he doesn't, many of their young clients like him go on to have normal lives."
"Continuous? That is another word stating they want our money for the rest of his life. If they truly cared and if there is something actually wrong with him, they would cure him!"
Khristopher stepped back as he watched the two argue back and forth. He didn't want this to happen. He just kept telling his teacher he felt sad and didn't know why. Mom said they'll take him there so they can figure out how to make him happy, but instead she had been crying since the car ride home.
The four-year-old turned toward the bottle. He liked the fat man with the silly tie. He didn't yell like Dad. He began to walk toward the bottle only for his dad to grab him by his short blue hair and throw him aside.
"DON'T TOUCH IT! YOU DON'T NEED IT!" Dimitris screamed.
Kallen ran over and blocked the kick with his body before he pulled his older brother away from the floor and away from their father. They hugged each other before the younger brother reached over and began to massage and tend to the exact spots on Khris' scalp from where his hair was pulled.
The father took his hands and ran them through his ash-grey short hair. He folded his arms and shook his head. Before he walked over to the piece of paper and began to read it. "Three hundred euros for just one test? One hundred and sixty-nine for an hour of talking? Do you realize how much overtime I'll have to work just to cover this? We can't afford to spend nearly two hundred euros just for him to talk to some old man for an hour. Do you know why they want him to continue? Because they want our money! " He switched the papers, his red face slowly turning white. "Sixteen hundred euros for that bottle? We are not paying sixteen euros a day just so he wouldn't cry as much! I can buy sixteen boxes of tissues for the price of a single pill."
The father pushed the papers aside. "You did Kallen too?" He flipped through the sheets and shook his head when he saw the results for his younger son. "What bullshit… this is proof they have no idea what they are talking about."
Vasiliki shrugged. "I couldn't believe it either." She was surprised, but again wasn't either since she heard one whisper how the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.
Kallen sighed. "Why aren't they happy,"
Khris nodded as they started to finish each other's sentences like they do when together. "-that they said you were normal. I don't understand."
"-I don't either. I think they want something wrong with me too-"
"-because at least it explains why you keep getting in trouble in school."
"I don't need a test for that. The teacher doesn't understand that I want to go back to reading The Wolves of Willoughby Chase. Not sit in a circle hearing Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? For the third time this week," grumbled the four-year-old younger twin.
The two in sync once more, turned at the same time and kept their eyes on their father as his fingers were practically smashing the buttons on his Tele-Cam.
Dimitris held his Tele-Cam, gazing at the screen of the old man who will ruin his son's life. He waits as the blathering old fool tried to tell him that he was worth being paid a hundred and sixty-nine euros an hour before he began to curse him out. "MY SON IS DOING THIRD GRADE WORK AT FOUR YEARS OLD! HE'S NEVER BEEN IN TROUBLE AT SCHOOL! HE GOES TO SOCCER! HE IS NOT A MONSTER! HE'S PERFECT!"
O|==============|O
Saga sighed as he pressed his hands against his face. "How ironic. He wouldn't let me go back and now I am the monster he feared I would become," he muttered as he pulled his red-stained hands from his face, granting him the appearance that he had been crying blood throughout this time.
Dr. Krios turned to the Gemini. It was no secret that neither of the twins held any respect for their father when they reached Sanctuary. But years of his influence still lingered, no matter how much they don't want to admit it. "Why do you keep calling yourself that? You are a problem? You are a monster? Why do you keep calling yourself such terrible words?"
"Because they are true. I killed the Pope, I nearly killed Athena and Aiolos and many others have died since. How do you defend that?"
In his true youth, Dohko was known as the tiger. Despite his jovial nature, the weapons that he bore would frighten those who crossed his path. He was the fox. Serene, one step ahead, yet one that many would dare not corner. "Aiolos struck Athena with his arrow."
The Gemini shook his head and slammed his fist into his palm. "He would never do such a thing if he wasn't cursed!"
The Lemurian folded his hands. "Exactly." He reached out.
"If you weren't cursed, would you have reacted as you did before?"
The Lemurian could tell that Saga swam in self-loathing for so long, he had forgotten his peaceful nature. A man who hated blood. Who couldn't kill a living thing. "Would you?"
The Gemini froze, his eyes widened before they relaxed. "I...wouldn't," the man answered with hesitation.
"There! Exactly!" the doctor spoke with glee.
The Gemini sighed, "but that doesn't mean I am not a failure."
The Lemurian took a deep breath, but he remained patient. The path to overcoming depression is not a straight line. Two steps forward, one step back. He knew that feeling and he will not be discouraged. At least Saga was talking. "Why do you say that?"
"He wanted me to read this," he spoke as he pulled the note out. Before in this place, the Hello Kitty sticker practically welded it shut. But now, the note had returned how he remembered it, a glob of a bloody and pulpy mess. "I got halfway, but I never finished." He squeezed it tightly. "I would do anything, to find out what he wrote."
The doctor reached out, the layers of despair in the Gemini's face was almost enough for him to drop his own illusion...almost. "Here, hand it to me." If Saga at least saw it, even if his mind didn't interpret it the words, the still image was still buried in the Gemini's subconscious. He waited until it was placed in his palm before he walked over toward the large oil painting of the Bronze Saint of Eridanus. He tapped the metal title plate. The image disappeared into a flurry of loud black and white static, before the plate pushed forward and revealed a plastic disk holder. He took the bloody note and used the edge of his shirt to buff out the fingerprints before he set it in the middle and closed it shut.
The static faded and right there, was the note, back in its pristine condition, still at the angle, he was holding it, and the devastation he felt in the ravine faded. He tilted his head and squinted his eyes before he reached into his pocket and pulled out his reading glasses that he kept hidden and only used in private. He was overjoyed, but still, the angle was terrible. "It's a little blurry."
The Lemurian couldn't blame him. Even his youthful orbs that could detect the cracks in cloths with the accuracy of a microscope were having trouble.
"Hold on, let me turn it to the high definition edition." He walked up and peeled the cover to reveal Aiolos sitting at a table, dressed in the robes of the Grandmaster and writing, the image dripping like a work from Van Gogh. "How is this?"
Saga nodded approvingly. "Much better."
The doctor returned back to the couch. What the Lemurian found curious, was that Saga's imagination depicted the Sagittarius in the same position as he would when they worked together in the library five years ago, sitting across from each other, giving an occasional smile and eye wave that made him suspect there was either, something going on between them or the thoughts were crisscrossing each other's minds. But he's been a Gold and has tended to them for the past two hundred years. It wasn't uncommon for Gold Saints to experiment.
There, the image of the archer turned up, as if it suddenly discovered it wasn't alone. Its fingers twirled the pen before tucking it in his headband before it turned toward the two.
Saga, if you're reading this, then I guess it worked.
You probably think I am the biggest idiot in the world, probably on par with my eighteenth-century equivalent. But as the Saint of Sagittarius, it is my duty to do stupidly loyal things in the name of the Goddess, whether I must throw myself off a mountain, or play the boyfriend boy doll because she and Paz both want to be the girls.
But it wasn't just for her.
I can be just as stupidly loyal to my brother and my friends too, especially for my best friend.
That's you, Khris. I know you wanted me to kill you, but I'm not going to throw away nine years of hanging out, chats, training, our goofy games, and those 'special times', because your selfless nature, didn't want to hurt any more people regardless if it meant losing your life. Besides, even if you tend to keep to yourself, you have more friends than you think who would miss you. Trust me, I'm not just talking about Hera and Neptune either.
I don't have much time. So there are a few things.
First, find a way to get yourself and Athena out of here.
I'm afraid that this curse may hold something against our Goddess.
I don't know how you can get away, but you know me pretty well, and I know you will find a way.
Dr. Krios' eyes shifted at his patient, noting how he seemed to lean quite a bit closer, bringing his hands to his mouth, as if studying the painting. He sensed that this must be where he left off.
Part of the reason Athena wanted you to be free of the curse, was because she understood that, you're the only one who understands it, not just in your research, but on a more personal level. You talked about how difficult it was to do so while cursed, so here is your chance.
Third, protect the tablet. The effects of the curse were faster than I expected and we can't afford to have an all-powerful cursed Pope on the throne.
Besides, you've held both and resisted using them even while cursed, with the exception of my brother, I can't think of anyone else better to hold it and keep it away from me.
I'm nervous.
As I've told you before, friends don't give up on each other during tough times.
Maybe others have given up on you, but I won't.
I never have and never will.
But, this time is different, because it may be the last time I can do so.
I'm scared.
Truthfully, after seeing you suffer through it, it may be the first time I'm a bit frightened. Not over my life, but what I may do to others. You asked me to do it and I told you I would if I had no other choice. As your friend, please do the same for me?
If it happens.
Don't worry.
Just keep your promise, continue to watch over my brother for me, and I will forgive you.
I'll be waking you up now.
My mind feels so foggy now. I think it's taking hold. But I do hope there is enough of my true self to fight and get the chance, to see your reaction of being free of your curse. People comment that they like my smile, comparing it to that of a sun.
Constant and always there.
But I know there is someone out there, who has a better one. But it's like a shooting star.
Fleeting.
Short.
But just as beautiful.
Good luck Khris.
Love, Lucas
The Gemini sat there, speechless.
Aiolos was always so selfless.
So kind, but wasn't afraid to call him out on things.
A true friend.
Like a gentle wind, it was easy to take his good nature for granted, until it was gone.
He turned to his hands, before his eyes returned back to the painting, only to see that the image had shifted. No longer the serene expression of his friend, instead, it had been replaced by a gritty image of a double-digit number, seemingly splashed on with dark red paint.
90
It was the number of days that Aiolos had left before he estimated that the curse will claim his soul. The Gemini's fists tightened. His friend thought he had several years based on him. The archer didn't realize it was only a fraction of that time.
Saga walked up to it and read the metal plate.
"PASS IT ON!"
By The Next Victim
Oil on Canvas
This stunning piece of Moderno art is the perfect depiction of the two sides of failure. As the number counts down, one soul is feasted on while the other is crushed in his pitiful attempt to solve a mystery that goes back to the times of ancient Greece.
If his technique was functioning, Saga could reduce it to atoms with Galaxy Explosion or doom it straight into the darkest depths of the galaxy where it would float and freeze until the end of time or reached end of existence.
But he won't.
Not in front of the cat.
Besides, what good would it do? He stares at the number, it's edging seemingly bleeding the same crimson red of the curse. "Thank you, for helping me read it," the Gemini spoke.
"That's what I'm here for." He turned to the piece of doubt that had made its way into the room, gazing at the way Saga stood in front of it, his eyes were not wavering. "It is quite hideous, don't you think."
Saga nodded. "I agree. It will probably drive your secretary crazy since it has ruined the feng shui she seemed to have established inside."
"What should we do with it?"
"Could you leave it?" Saga asked.
"It doesn't make you angry?"
Saga shook his head. "It does." He folded his arms. But, that's why it has to stay, and he had to go.
The doctor folded his hands and nodded his head. He could sense the difference in the Gemini from earlier. He was far more collective and rather than use the failure that was presented in front of him to fall into despair, it seemed he sought to use it as a way to motivate him. He turned to the clock on the wall, not that it mattered since it lacked any hands to point to the numbers. "Well Saga, it looks like our time is almost up for today."
The Lemurian produced a fake smile. His power was here and his influence past this place was nonexistence. There was an uncomfortable but familiar feeling of dread, much like any time he needed to send a Saint on a mission. "It's time you returned to the world beyond the Room of the Golden Ball." He paused and studied the Gemini's face, as it seemed to be a mixture of relief and a bit of sadness. "Is something wrong, Saga?"
"I need to go back," he spoke. "but I have a couple of questions." He watched the college intern raise his head and prep his clipboard. "What is this place?" he questioned. "You told me the name, but not what it was."
And Dr. Krios answered. "It is a safe place. When the world seems to spin too quickly for us to handle. When there are too many stresses, this is what this place is for, a place for healing the mind and soul."
Saga's head darted upwards, as if perhaps this is why he was here. "Will I be able to repent?"
But the doctor shook his head no. How can he do so in his own head? Even though he had forgiven the Gemini, that didn't mean the others had as well. "I'm sorry, but that is a question that you will have to figure out yourself."
The Gemini shook his head. It figured it wouldn't be that easy. He thought back to the lobby and how there was no other entrance. "How did I come here?"
The doctor looked up. "I told you. When everything becomes too stressful, you come to me."
"But," he swallowed hard. How curious. When he first came, he couldn't think of anything more than getting out of here. "I need to go...but is it possible to come back here without... " he raised his hand and crafted a miniature Galaxian Explosion that blew up into a pile of candy and glitter. The Gemini nonchalantly stood there as Secretary Not-Crane-Yuziriha quickly skittered over on all fours before feasting madly on the sweets, wrappers and all.
This was going better the ancient Pope thought it would. He may have not been a real psychologist, but his experience as Grand Pope had taught him that issues were best dealt with while they were small and not when the person was about ready to collapse from the weight. "Very well, come over and kneel, so that I will grant you a means of coming here whenever you need to." He spoke as he gestured over. He smiled as a bit of nostalgia came over him, when the third guardian came down with such grace as if he was receiving the blessings of Athena herself.
The Lemurian stood up, his proud green hair waving back and forth with each step before he came before the youth. "Saga of Gemini, Third Guardian of the Twelve Houses of Sanctuary. I shall grant you an invisible glyph upon your forehead that will serve as your key. Before I grant you this key, please understand that you only have so many visits, before your access to this place will cease." Saga's face doesn't react, but its inaction was itself a reaction. Saga wasn't someone with a stone face and the last time he did this was when he was not granted the title as the successor of Grand Pope. "Do you understand."
Saga quietly nodded, his eyes closed.
The Lemurian's noble voice continued. "The glyph that you shall be granted, is one that commanded a great amount of respect among the people of Mu before it sank. It is a symbol that only our strongest warriors are privileged to tattoo it upon their chests.
In the Lemurian language, the glyph is a combination of two others, one that represents unlimited and the other is strength… therefore translates to 'infinite power'.
Now Saga, I shall bestow this symbol upon you. Memorize it, and anytime you wish to return here, trace it upon your forehead."
With that, the former Grand Pope raised a finger, the tip glowing brightly as a newborn star. He lowers it with a serene grace and pressed it in the middle of the Gemini's forehead before he carefully crafts the majestic symbol.
Saga opened his eyes and twisted his lips. He was grateful for the noble gesture but was a bit confused too. "You said infinite power, yet..did you just trace a heart on my forehead?"
But the doctor placed his hands on his hips and smiled. "I did! Because there isn't a more perfect symbol. Until our next session, Saga. As Aiolos wrote, Good Luck," he spoke as the golden ball flashed.
O|==================|O
Originally this chapter was posted about four days ago and I was going post the next part to Love You, Stab Me, where we dealt with what happened between Saga and Shion. However, there is a problem. The first part of Love You, Stab Me was bad. My friends knew I had hesitations when releasing it. I still held doubts. Love You Stab Me 2 is written, but the problem is that it relies on people going back to reading the first one. However, it wasn't my best work.
So I finally decided to just delete the chapter and place it in the dark catacombs of my hard drive of failed plots. Will it ever come back? I don't know. If it does, it needs some work.
I also doomed Goldie Tales 2: Oh There's Kanon to the depths of my hard drive. Again I knew it was not my best work, it's a chapter that everyone seems to skip and no one bothered to review it so I got rid of that too.
The next chapter will be about a couple of weeks. I was surprised it bumped the story back up, so I apologize if you thought something was added when really I was just deleting some of it.
Jenny