Skithia laid there unconscious in the bed set up by Frafdo. She was healed by Vidav, but she remained unconscious along with Atrapol. The white eagle looked at Aura,who was now back in her original form, and Khybon. "I'll look at these two for a bit." He gave a mixed expression to the Underworld Taskmaster. "I heard from Hoton that you took down Shadowdancer with just a blade. Word around here and the Underworld that he was a hard contender. Aaaand not the most sane."
Aura's fins turned green and white. Yeah…I've noticed that from the get-go.
Khybon was silent for a moment. His mouth tightened. His heart twisted into a hard knot. Say it, Khybon thought to himself. Just say why you did it! "Yeah…I had a score to settle with him. He beat up Jiggerex and nearly injured me when he snuck in. The guy is into total flair." That's the best you could doooo?!
Aura's fins and wings turned bright shades of pink. She leaned closer, merely inches from Khybon's face. I'm just glad you're ok. Thank you for taking down Atrapol too. I wish I could've seen that fire attack you've used. She suddenly had reds appear at her realization at what she was doing. S-sorry! She shrunk away. Her stomach growled loudly. I…Better go eat and tell Belladonna everything's alright. She left in a flash before anyone could react. Meet you downstairs, Khyboooooooooon!
Cot and Frafdo merely looked at each other with annoyance. One glance at a blushing Kybon made them think the same thing. For the love of Cothica, kiss already!
—-(Sometime later, back in Kiru City)-
Aura hugged Belladonna. The hysterical Insecte cried her eyes out. "I was so worried." She hugged Aura tighter, causing the poor M'arrillian to lose her ability to breathe. Aura arrived back at Kiru City by nightfall. Khybon was being examined by Najirin. However, more news buzzed in Kiru City and Maxxor's castle. Apparently, one Ratan had witnessed Shadowdancer's demise through Khybon and ran to tell the others. This resulted in the Overworlders taking back some of their territory and freeing some of the slaves that were camped there.
Before long, everyone decided to have a celebration. Two generals were now gone. Only one remained. The real problem was that Moonbane was hard to find. Despite being a large red dragon, he managed to hide himself in Perim. Even Cot was troubled that they didn't find him. Better yet, what he was planning. Queen Tikali was another matter to deal with. Everyone in the castle decided to worry about that later and just have a moment to enjoy another delicious feast. Smells of spices and fish filled the room. Plates and bowls gleamed in the candlelight.
Khybon was immensely tired. Even the food made him forget his manners as he began shoveling soup into his mouth. It felt so much better after his bout with Atrapol. His whole body aches but there were no severe injuries. In fact, his spine felt much better after spending so much time in Kiru City…with Aura. He blushed hard at the times where she would pop into his chamber to check up on him. The gray scales and smooth skin turned silver in the dawn and evening sky. Her cute colors on her wings and fins.
"Well, if it isn't the hero of the hour!"
Khybon was so startled, he tossed his bowl over his head. He coughed as he looked over his shoulder. Viqtarr was now wearing his soup thanks to the bowl he tossed over. H'earring was beside the giant, giggling at the sight before him. "Uh…Sorry…Just got lost in thought."
"About Aura?" H'earring teased. The scout gave a wide grin.
Khybon's face turned redder at that. "D-d-d-d-did Cot tell you?"
"Yes and no." H'earring answered. "You've been obvious since your time in the Mepidium Oasis."
Khybon's voice tightened. His mouth went dry. Does that mean Chaor knows too? He looked at the far end of the table. His ruler was deep in conversation with Maxxor. Probably for future battle plans.
"Awww." Viqtarr hugged Khybon. "Isn't that cute? One of the toughest Underworlders has fallen for a M'arrillian."
"Shhhhh!" Khybon smacked him. He slid back down on his chair. "Keep it down." He looked at his nearest plate. "Even if that were the case, we'd never be together."
"Why-" Viqtarr's eyes widened as realization hit him. "Oh…Right."
"One of these days she needs to head back to the Underworld." H'earring pointed out. "Especially now that we'll have to get our troops ready."
Khybon looked at him. "What?"
"Yeah. In a few hours, we'll get everyone gathered in the tunnels that meet both the Underworld and Overworld. It's where we'll plan our next attack."
"Aura's going to be in it too." Viqtarr added.
Khybon's eyes widened. "Really? Her and Cot are actually going to participate?"
H'earring nodded.
Khybon looked at Aura once again. He couldn't believe that this was the same M'arrillian who was so closed off from the world. Covered in mud and chains. Ready to accept death. Now, here she was. All full of life and eager to make new friends. It even breaks his heart how she is so different from her tribe. She's so cautious with her power. Even with control she knew she had to be careful. His eyes met hers. His face turned a beet red. By the Cothica…Cot is right. I'm really in love with her.
—-(In the Doors of the Deepmines)-
Milla'iin was furious. He was no closer to ruling over the M'arrillians than the other Chieftains. To make matters worse, word had gotten out about that strange M'arrillian Fluidmorpher who defeated him in combat. The humiliation was getting worse by the day. Whenever he went out, other M'arrillians chuckled. Going out of their way to make fun of him. Today was different however.
Milla'iin was going over some of the latest plans. Some of them were foiled by Shadowdancer. The lunatic nearly killed me and Ihun' kalin, he thought bitterly. Then, he heard a noise. He looked out the window and saw a red creature flying in their domain. By a closer look, it was a dragon. Milla'iin had heard of another general named Moonbane from the M'arrillians that decided to take residence after their escape and served under him. What is he doing here?
He hovered over the main building to Pskoom city. Several other M'arrillians were gathering. It's been forever since we've actually gathered. He looked over and saw Ri'oha closes to him. He wasn't much for small talk but he had to get answers. Ri'oha, what is going on?
Ri'oha gave him a haughty look. "And a good morning to you too." She flicked her hair away to reveal her peach colored face. "If you must know, some shadows just announced that the queen will give us something that will make us a united tribe again."
A Queen…Queen Tikali? He thought for a moment. What could she want with us? Anything else those shadows said?
"I don't care as long as I can go back and get some sleep."
Milla'iin rolled his one eye. He noticed Phelphor there as well. Suddenly, one of the M'arrillians which resembled a manta ray flew over to his side. Even though he didn't utter a sound, he could feel the anxiety. Memories of pain and torture filled his mind. Just like Aura's. What troubles you, Sunlyoi?
"M-master! Don't trust what Tikali says." She said, her eyes darting frantically. "I've heard rumors that she killed most of the dragon royals one night because they refused to grant her rule over all of Melodalia and ruling Perim."
Rule Perim!?
Shhhh! Sunyoi looked around again. Don't react. If something is wrong at the slightest moment, run!
Milla'iin wasn't one for running but caution seemed ideal. Once he reached the building, he stared in awe of Tikali's size. Several shadows hovered over the red dragon like black birds in the sky. She's almost big as A'aune. He tried to feel for her mind. Oddly enough, the wall was thick. Barely a few words or emotion was able to reach him. What he did find was an unusual amount of excitement. He nearly jumped when he felt a mind pulse from her.
Don't get carried away, little boy.
Milla'iin nearly bumped into a Khrall after that. His skin began to crawl. It was like getting hit by a fireball. No. Worse than that. His blue eye focused on the dragon, He sent messages to his little creatures to observe the perimeter of the building. His insides twisted the moment Tikali spoke.
"Greetings." Tikali's voice dripped with venom. Her claws clicked against the stone. Her tail twitched. "I've come today to hold a proposal for an alliance." Her mouth tightened as she heard laughter and murmurs along the walls. Fire threatening to come forth from her throat. "Laugh not. For I have something that might change your minds." She gave a long hollow whistle. In a moment a large shadow loomed over her covering everyone in shadow.
—-(The Underworld Tunnels)-
Every tribe gathered. They all had the remaining battlegear with them. Civilians and children were all tasked with staying in hidden chambers of their respective territory to avoid conflict. The warriors got a chance to be acquainted with Aura and Quin'lins. Even Dractyl, normally a coward, was finding enjoyment in her company. Aura would display her forms and water manipulation. Her rainbow flames caught everyone's attention. Even Skithia, who reluctantly joined the group, enjoyed the company.
Before long, Chaor waved Aura over. It was time for their meeting to start. Aura waved them goodbye. She noticed Skithia mouthing "Good luck" and flashed her happy colors. Cot fluttered beside her. As they headed toward the small ring of leaders, Aura felt Chaor's thoughts brushing against her mind. It was a good thing A'blob taught her how to pick up thoughts without invading their minds and permission to share these techniques in case another creature wants to talk to her. It was only fair for Chaor considering everything her tribe did to his. What's up Chaor?
I gotta ask you a more personal question. Chaor's eyes twitched. Just don't scatter your mind over it. I already feel weird doing this.
You'll get the hang of it soon enough. Cot said.
Cot! What are you doing here?! The Underworld Leader glared at the bird.
Hey! If you want to say something to my buddy, you have to say it to me too! I'm tired of you kicking me to the curb!
Fiiiine. Just don't get crazy. I wanted to ask Aura about Khybon.
What about him? Aura's colors turned to curiosity of purples and greens.
What do you think of him?
At that, Aura turned pink. Well…He was the first creature who was nice to me since I came here. He didn't make fun of me. It was weird that everyone was so scared of me. Even his fears made me confused. When I went to the Underworld, I thought I was going to be treated the same way I had been during my days as a slave. Memories flooded both Cot and Chaor. Khybon being nice to her. Talking to her. With Khybon, I felt acknowledged. It felt like I was someone with feelings rather than a cute little trinket…He…made me stronger.
Chaor blinked in surprise. The sincerity in Aura's answer was sweet like Overworld flowers. Sentiment isn't his strong suit, but he couldn't help but feel sorry for the creature that he once hated. So…Do you love him?
Aura's colored turned shades of pink and red. Her heart thundered so hard. She glanced over at Cot. The bird only shook her head followed by Don't look at me! Aura hesitated for a moment. Why now? But Chaor trusted her so far. She couldn't betray it. Yes…I do. But I know we can't be together. He's loyal to your tribe. I don't want him to be forced to choose. Plus, I know that some of the Underworlders don't fully trust me yet.
Chaor only looked at her in silence. He closed his mind after that. He then reached the group. He turned to the other leaders. "Okay. Let's get started. What do we know so far?"
Maxxor placed a hand on the map. "Nearly all the forces have retreated to the oceans. Some have surrendered after hearing about the death of the two generals." His face went grim. "But we have another problem…"
"What is it?" Chaor's body tensed. The way Maxxor was looking away from the others only put dread in his stomach.
Maxxor took a deep breath. He waved an Overworlder over. His body was nearly transparent. Four arms sported by a slim torso. One of them was in a sling. "Iparu was guarding Lake Blakeer when he was attacked by a dragon. Equipped with some strange shadow monster. He tried to fend it off, but was knocked out."
"When I came to," Iparu said. "He was gone."
Chaor's jaw dropped. His face went completely pale. "That's impossible. Aa'une escaped?!"
Aura's fins and wings flared a mixture of color. Pale yellow and whites clashing with dark red and black. A growl erupted in her throat. Everyone turned to her in shock. Rocks vibrated around her. She remembered the story about him through Chaor, Maxxor and A'blob. The monster who ruled over the M'arrillian tribe. A deluded, power hungry fool that nearly killed his tribe over a power that he didn't deserve and never will. Now that he is out, he will no doubt go after her friends. Over my dead body! Did you find any Shadow Kin to interrogate? They're hard to find but they have a ranking system similar to Danians.
"An interesting concept," Queen Azazel said. She shook her head. "My mandablors saw them every once in a while, but they were unable to catch one." She turned her attention to Cot. "Do you have any ideas on how to catch one?"
Cot thought for a moment. She landed on the map. Her eyes rolled over the expanse of Perim's land. She pointed to Lake Ken-I-Po. "How often do the lights occur over there?"
Maxxor followed Cot's direction. "Every night. Why?"
Cot gazed at Aura. Aura, remember what A'blob said. I know you're angry but if you don't calm down, we'll never protect everyone. She was relieved that her friend's colors turned blue while the previous colors lined her wings and fins. "Shadow Kin are sensitive to light. Certain periods of exposure can make them tired. Even the night lights might help us get what we need. We just have to corner them."
"How exactly?" King Theb-Saar asked.
They love games and riddles, Aura explained. Just say my dear shadows of night. Won't you come play a game with me tonight and they will come.
Chaor raised a brow. "What a bizarre way to get them."
"But it works." Sansi stepped in. She was still wearing the same clothes she arrived in, but she and her sister are fuller than they were before. "For now, we have to make sure we can head back to Melodalia without Queen Tikali or Moonbane knowing." She pondered for a moment. Her brow clenched in focus.
"Well…Why not summon the heavenly beasts?" Monna suggested.
Prince Iflar raised a brow. "What are those?"
Monna looked up at the white Mepedian with excitement. "They're like war beasts but they have blue bodies with lights. It's like seeing a night sky come to life."
Sansi lifted her hand. "It can only be done by those with a pure soul. Plus they can only be summoned by the reflection of the soul."
Monna raced to a small clearing. She took a deep breath. Her eyes closed, she raised her palms to eye level. A dark blue aura shimmered off of her. A few words were whispered out of her mouth. Before long, a bright light appeared in front of her. All the creatures close by gathered around. Suddenly, a shape began to form in the light. It elongated from limb to head. As the form solidified, it revealed a giraffe-like creature with feathers along its neck and a frilled tail. The small lights dotted along the body resembled the night sky. It let out a hollow cry. It looked down at Monna. Monna smiled.
"What…is that?" Mudeenu gaped at the creature.
"A Heavenly Beast. One of the Rainbow Birds best creations." Sansi stepped forward. "They were made to maintain and prevent Shadow Kin from destroying lands. In Melodalia, summoners were common." Sansi sighed. She pulled out a pendant. One that had a swan-like creature on it. "The beasts we summon are a reflection of our souls."
"We?" Mudeenu turned to her.
Sansi nodded. She walked over to her sister's side. In a matter of moments, she did the exact same thing. Another Heavenly Beast soon appeared. This one resembled a Pegasus with Addex horns gracing its head. It whinnied, rearing on its hind legs. Sansi glanced over. "Everyone, I would like you to meet our Heavenly Beasts. Arberth and Shai."
"Astounding…" King Theb Saar gasped.
"Now how come you didn't use them before?" Chaor asked.
"Uh…Hello!" Monna scowled. "Small boat, big beasts!"
Chaor blushed at that. "Oh…Right."
Maxxor chuckled. "Can they produce enough light to trap them?"
Belladonna ran over to the Merakeet sisters. "Sansi! Monna! Be careful! Or-"
The creatures let out a bellow and vanished. Sansi and Monna both began to breathe heavily. The sisters collapsed. Gasps erupted. Mudeenu immediately ran over to them. He carefully held them up in a sitting position. His eyes filled with concern.
"Apologizes…" Sansi looked up. "We've…hadn't mastered making them stay for a long period of time…Our mother died before we could do it…"
"It's ok…" Mudeenu said softly. "We'll figure something out."
Maxxor glanced at the other leaders. Then, he received a nod from Aura. "Ok everyone, let's think of other ways to handle the situation. It is best to have the beasts as a last resort."
Everyone nodded in agreement. With that, they went back to their small ring to discuss the plans further. Each idea from the tribal leaders was tossed around to the next. There were a few arguments, but they didn't escalate into hostility. It was finally decided that they would try to sneak into an enemy camp and steal several boats after obtaining some of the Shadow Kin. Once the meeting was adjourned, Aura decided to go see how Quin'lins was doing. To her surprise she saw Khybon with Quin'lins at his side.
Khybon? What are you doing here with Quin'lins?
"He…had an episode after some Overworld scouts were talking about Iparu and what happened at Lake Blakeer." Khybon explained. He gently patted the frightened M'arrillian on the back. "It's a good thing I know how to calm him down."
Quin'lins looked away. Embarrassed. "My apologize again for the trouble. I was reminded of something important after hearing about…The previous Oligarch." He gripped himself. He felt a reassuring touch from Aura. He looked up. A smile crossed his face. "Perhaps it would be best to lighten the mood. Maybe…confess your feelings for each other?" He chuckled as the two blushed. "Now's a good time to do so." He grabbed Cot before the Chime Gale would say anything. "I'll give you some space."
Aura's heart thundered. Her colors turned pink once again. She began to notice the rocks around her vibrating. Aura took a few deep breaths, but only seeing Khybon's blush made her have a difficult time with it. I-Um…I-We… Her thoughts came to a screeching halt the moment Khybon touched her hand.
"Aura…" His eyes sparkled in a way they didn't before. His whole body was shaking, but he remained in his composure. "I…When I first met you, I thought of you as an ordinary M'arrillian. A creature bent on brainwashing like it happened the first time I encountered one." His hand gently squeezed. "But the more I got to know you, I got really excited at the idea of seeing you again. You've come so far. I hardly recognized you as that frightened slave that was covered in mud. You're smart. Funny. Almost every creature in Perim wants to be friends with you. Don't worry about what my tribe thinks." He leaned forward and kissed her. He pulled away slowly. "And I wouldn't have it any other way. "
Aura's eyes filled with tears. Ripples of blue appeared. She hugged Khybon tightly. It's been so long, she said. So long since I've known what love is. Now I know. She kissed him back. Long and deep. For a moment, her mind melded with his. Giving off a peaceful hum. I love you Khybon.
Not too far away, Cot, Quin'lins, Monna, Sansi, Frafdo, Chaor, Maxxor and H'earring watched with awe and joy. Cot fluttered her wings happily at the sight. Quin'lins merely smiled, tears rolling down his face as he began to recall an old memory from long ago. "It's about time," Frafdo muttered. Everyone else enjoyed the bliss, unaware of the danger that's coming closer.
—-
A/N: Yeeeeesssssss! They did it! They finally kissed!
