Arya paced the living room floor, her body trembling and causing her to trip a few times, but she continued her pacing anyway. She was nervous, waiting for Keisuke to arrive.
There was a knock at the door.
She quickly went to answer it, her hand struggling to grasp the door handle.
Keisuke stood on the porch, looking haggard. "My Queen."
"Come in. Are you alright?"
"I am unhurt. But I have an execution squad on my trail. I dare not stay long."
She frowned, "An execution squad? Why?"
"Court has held my parole meeting in absentia and ruled I am to be executed for high treason." He pulled out a syringe. "This is the drug. The side effects may be severe. I must go."
She shook her head, "Stay. We can protect you. I'm going to have Ryu write a letter to Court to have you pardoned."
He shook his head. "I do not wish to endanger you or the children. And the Court's verdicts are final."
"There has to be something we can do." She frowned, "They're probably pissed at me about Talis though.."
"They can not understand the favor you have done for them." Keisuke kissed her hand, then opened the door and peered out.
"If there's anything you need, please let us know. I feel like I'm not doing enough to help you."
He turned back to her with a soft smile. "My Queen, those are my words. I only hope this drug works, even if only a little." He slipped out the door, moving rapidly down the driveway and disappearing into the trees.
She sighed and shook her head, finally closing the door and staring at the syringe quietly.
"You okay, Princess?" Tomoya asked gently as he wrapped his arms around her.
"Worried about Keisuke," she sighed. "And nervous to try this drug."
"I heard. Hopefully you can do something. And I'll be right here if something goes wrong."
"He said the side effects may be severe. Not sure what to expect."
"If you're that worried, don't take it."
She shook her head, "He put all this work into making it. I'm going to try it." She uncapped the syringe and stuck it into her arm. After injecting it, she swayed, suddenly feeling really dizzy.
"Woah!" Tomoya steadied her. "You should sit down."
She nodded and slowly moved to the couch. She sat down and laid her head back for a bit. After a while, she began shivering violently, her eyes opening just slightly as she fought to stay conscious. "It's... so cold.."
Tomoya picked her up, taking her to their room and wrapping her in a quilt. "Go to sleep."
"Love you," she whispered before passing out. She continued to shiver but the blanket helped a bit.
Over the next couple hours, she kicked off the quilt as sweat began pouring down her face. She didn't wake though.
Tomoya paced as the older kids looked anxious.
Ryon slipped into the bedroom, sitting down and watching her silently.
Tomoya answered his cell when it rang. His face fell, then he answered. "Take him to the safehouse."
Arya's body began twitching suddenly, then began to shake uncontrollably.
"DAD!" Ryon grabbed her tight.
Tomoya ran in, and the two of them held her down.
After a few minutes her body calmed but she continued to stay unconscious. Two hours later, she jolted up, her eyes and hands locking on the trashcan before she began throwing up.
"Mom?" Ryon's question was quiet. "Are you dying?"
She reached out and held his hand for a minute until she caught her breath. "No baby.. just bad side effects of a drug. I'm sure I'll be alright soon. Try not to worry."
"Okay…"
Tomoya brushed her hair back. "How bad do you think it'll get?"
She shook her head, "How bad has it been?" She took a deep breath before gagging again.
"Extreme fever after the chills, near seizures. Now this." He gently supported her.
"Sorry.." she said quietly. She laid back, "But I think the throwing up is done for now."
"Why are you apologizing?" Ryon asked as he held her hand.
"I chose to take the drug. You wouldn't be as worried if I didn't take it."
"Hush. We would be more worried if you didn't." Tomoya cradled her quietly.
She was about to speak when she suddenly froze, then her whole body began shaking and her eyes rolled back.
"Shit! Ryon, grab her legs!" Tomoya held her head as still as he could and prayed.
A few minutes later she stilled, her breathing quiet and almost nonexistent.
Ryon started to cry as Tomoya held her tighter.
"Come on, Princess. Stop scaring us."
Her breathing slowly picked up. She was asleep for hours before beginning to mumble.
Tomoya ran a hand through her hair as he held her.
She slowly opened her eyes and struggled to focus on him. "Hi.."
"Hi. How do you feel?"
"A bit better.. what happened?"
"You had a seizure. It scared us pretty bad." He gave her a soft kiss.
"Sorry.. Didn't mean to scare you."
"Not your fault." He continued to run his hand through her hair quietly. "Just glad to see you semi conscious."
She nodded slowly, "I think I'll be okay. Just need some more sleep.."
"Sleep as long as you need."
"Love you," she closed her eyes.
"Love you more." He softly kissed her, then laid her down and left the bedroom.
She slept for almost a full day before waking again. She pushed herself up and got herself showered and changed before heading out to the living room.
Several of the kids were on the floor coloring as Yuuto supervised. Azra jumped to her feet and ran toward her. "Mommy!"
"Hi baby," Arya lifted her and kissed her cheek. "Are you having fun coloring?"
"Unh huh." She pouted a little. "Ryon won't play with me. And he yelled at Ely."
"I'll go talk to him." She set Azra down and headed for Ryon's room.
The door was ajar, blocked by broken toys.
"Ryon?" She asked softly.
Soft crying was her only answer.
She moved into the room, moving toward him and wrapping her arms around him.
"If she dies..I will run away…" Ryon had his face buried in his pillow. The room was a mess, clothes and books strewn violently around the room. A bag lay half open, clothes thrown in haphazardly.
"You should know, even if something happens to me, you still have a whole lot of people here who care about you." She said quietly.
"If you aren't here, it's not home."
She sighed, "Well, you don't have to worry about it for a long while. I'm sorry for scaring you."
He twisted himself to lay his head on her shoulder. "I'm just glad you're okay."
"On a positive note, I haven't been shaky yet since waking up. The medicine might have worked."
"Really?"
She nodded. "We'll need to give it some time still, but I'm feeling pretty good."
Ryon raised his head with a grin. "Yay!"
She smiled and kissed his forehead. "Now go play with Azra. She was pouting because you wouldn't."
He looked apologetic and nodded. He ran for the door and disappeared.
She took a couple minutes to straighten the room before going back out to Yuuto. "So where's everyone else? Something happen?"
"They had Council business. Toya is at the safehouse." He looked somber.
"What's going on there?"
He winced, then shook his head. "Nothing you need to worry about."
"You know that just makes me want to know more, right?"
He sighed. "Just don't, Arya. Please."
She sighed and sat down, quietly watching the kids.
An hour later, Tomoya quietly entered the house. He didn't say anything, striding down the hall and entering Kimito's room before closing the door.
She sighed softly after watching him, looking back at the kids.
Ten minutes later, he emerged with red eyes and headed for the supply closet, pulling several packing boxes out and returning to the room.
She got up and went to the door, "Toya? What's wrong?"
"Just packing up. How are you feeling?" His voice was rough sounding.
"Tell me what happened."
"Execution squad happened." His voice broke and she could hear a soft sob.
"Where is he?"
"Them. At the safe house. Finished arrangements a little while ago."
Arya shook her head and opened a portal, stepping through before it disappeared. She was in the safe house, staring at covered beds. She uncovered them and looked them over.
Kimito looked peaceful, dressed in the suit he'd worn to their prank wedding.
Keisuke lay dressed in a subdued yellow robe of Fae design. He also looked peaceful.
She stared at them a long while before closing her eyes and focusing. She gathered up a big burst of energy and shot it into the pair.
Both jerked violently, Kimito convulsing.
She checked him over quickly then injected a medicine into his arm.
He calmed, then blinked hazy eyes open. "What -?"
"Shh, just relax."
He nodded slowly, losing consciousness again.
Arya sat down between them quietly.
Keisuke began to twitch uncontrollably, then stopped.
She watched silently, scanning him over just in case.
His breathing slowed, then hitched quietly before ceasing.
She checked him again, injecting him with medicine before forcing another large burst of energy into him.
"I thought I'd find you here." Ryusei said as he entered the room. "There's nothing you can do for him now."
"Why?"
"When a Fae is executed, his power is stripped from him. Then he is injected with turinal." Ryusei looked sadly at Keisuke's body. "Being a healer, having his power stripped sent him into irreversible shock."
She sighed, stopping the flow of energy. She watched him sadly for a minute before checking Kimito over again.
He was still unconscious, but his vitals were stable.
Ryusei moved to Keisuke's side and laid a hand on his chest. The Prince bent his head and started whispering something that sounded like a prayer before he recoiled.
She watched quietly, not saying anything.
"Arya…" Her brother's eyes were wide and shocked.
"What?" She asked softly.
"His heart is beating."
"That's good.. Right?"
"No one has ever been brought back after execution!"
"Well, it's not that common for people to be brought back anyway, right?" She sighed. "But I've done the impossible before."
"How powerful are you?!" He swallowed as he saw her expression. "Forgive me. I will leave now." He hurried out of the room.
She frowned but sat down again.
"How am I alive?" Keisuke's eyes met hers in confusion.
"Not entirely sure, but I revived you."
He shot up, his face going pale. "That should not be possible.."
"That's what Ryu said too.. but you're alive, and that's what matters."
He nodded slowly, his eyes moving to Kimito. "He tried to protect me.."
"He'll be alright," she said softly.
"I am sorry for bringing this trouble upon you. As soon as I am strong enough, I will disappear."
"You're not going anywhere and you're no trouble."
"If the Court discovers you've helped me..there could be repercussions."
"I'll deal with it."
"I don't want you hurt."
"I know. Just let me worry about it."
He shook his head, sliding off the bed onto his feet. He swayed, then steadied. "I will not risk all you have worked for, nor your family and the orphanage. I am not that important."
"You're part of our family too," she said softly. "So please sit down and relax."
The door burst open, Haru and Hitoshi racing in with Zal. Their arms were covered in gold, the boy motionless.
Arya quickly helped them get Zal in a bed, then began pouring energy into him.
"You want to explain why Zal was shot by another Fae?" Haru asked angrily.
Arya took a deep breath, "I'll take care of things."
"It is my fault." Keisuke headed for the door unsteadily.
"Sit down."
Keisuke froze. "Arya?"
"You aren't going anywhere. We're helping you and you aren't even steady on your feet yet. They executed you already and expect you to be dead. If you leave, they could see that you're not. I doubt they shot Zal over you. It could be anything from hating me to him being anchis born. Who knows? But I'll figure it out. Your job is just to sit and rest." Arya continued to pour her energy into Zal.
"I can not stay here forever."
"But you can stay here until you are well."
"They will find out sooner or later I am alive. I have patients. And why would a Fae portal here to shoot him?" The doctor shook his head. "No, more likely is the execution squad was given further orders and are carrying them out. You should warn Toya to be on alert."
Arya sighed and called Tomoya and let him know what was happening. She then continued healing Zal up. After that, she went to find Ryusei to figure out what was going on.
"Arya..go back inside now." Her brother said slowly as she opened the front door. He stood between two men, his hands behind his back.
She stared at them for a minute, before wrapping the men in vines and pulling them away from Ryusei. "What is going on?"
"They have orders to bring me to Court." Ryusei answered quietly.
"What the hell is going on? Why do they want you and why did Zal get shot?" She growled. "I'm going to give them a piece of my mind."
"Zal fought back. The Court is rounding up all your supporters for unknown reasons." Ryusei hadn't moved, his face beginning to pale.
"Are you alright?" She asked softly.
"Large dose of sawaya." He blinked slowly at her.
She took him inside and got him laid down. "I'm going to Court to figure out what's going on." She focused for a moment "Shouma? Have they gotten you too or are you safe? I'm heading to Court to get this figured out if you want to go with."
"They're trying to take the kids…"
"Keep them safe. I'll go see what's going on." She took a deep breath before opening a portal to Court and stepping through.
"Surrendering yourself?" A garishly dressed Fae smirked widely as he sat on the throne.
"What is going on? Why is everyone coming after my family?"
"You're being removed." He kept smirking.
"On what grounds?"
"Destroying our way of life."
"The way of the Fae needs to change," she answered. "I'm not going to let it continue as it was. I was hoping it wouldn't come to this and that the Fae would come to their senses, but apparently you leave me no choice." She closed her eyes for a moment and focused her energy. She then opened her eyes and held her hand out, shooting a large burst of energy into the man, his heart stopping instantly. "I would rather see the downfall of the Fae than have it go back to the way it was."
Several guards began to approach, then froze.
She looked at them carefully before opening a portal to her house. She quickly took down the ones trying to take the children, unbinding them gently before standing, her face showing her anger.
Taren and Yamae shrank back in fear.
"I'm not mad at you. You'll be safe now. But I need to get back to Court. Just remember, I love you guys."
"They took Dad and Uncle Shouma outside. They haven't come back." Taren said quietly.
"Alright. I'll take care of it." She headed outside to see what was happening.
There was a flash of fire and a scream, then a black clad man ran past her covered in flames.
She watched for a moment before continuing on the way he came from.
Shouma was on his knees over a prone Tomoya, blue light surrounding them. He was swaying back and forth, his eyes barely open as gold blood poured from a stomach wound.
Arya quickly got to them and poured her pink light over them both. She stayed there for a while as she closed their wounds then took them both inside to the medical room. She stood watching them for a few moments before preparing to make a portal.
"They're going to kill you…" Shouma said weakly.
"Well, I'm going to take as many of them out before then. I don't mind people opposing me, but if they are kicking me out, I'd rather take them down with me. They can't go back to how it was. It wasn't right. So I'll take down the Court with me and the rest of the kingdom can start fresh."
"I'll go with you…" He pushed himself up. "I don't know where Ryu is.."
"He'll be alright, he's at the safehouse. You just stay here, you're in no shape to fight."
"Can't let you die alone." He stood unsteadily.
"You need to stay and make sure the kids stay safe." She said quietly. She approached and kissed his cheek before pushing him back into the bed. She then quickly made a portal and walked through, it closing behind her. She stood near the throne, staring out at Court.
"Your Highness?" A thin young man asked timidly.
She took a deep breath before speaking, "It seems many of the Court are trying to have me removed. My family has been attacked all day. I expected many to disagree with my changes and do not mind people having differing opinions. However, I was given this position by my parents who wanted change for the Fae people. I cannot allow things to go back to the way they had been. So, I'm offering a choice to you all. I'm resetting the Court. If you agree with me and my choices, leave and live to start Court fresh. If you don't agree, fight me for a chance to take the throne."
She paused, "Alternately, if you disagree but are too cowardly, I'll give you the choice to go live with the humans for a while. Maybe then you'll gain some compassion toward others. Many of you here think about yourselves and what is good for you. But you need to start thinking of others. What is good for our people? What is good for our children? The class system, the Colony, and hunting other races are not good for our people. We're driving ourselves to the ground. We need to rise up and start fresh. We can become better people if you'd only give up on the old ways. So join with me to make the Q'tan a better race. Or, choose to fight for your old beliefs."
The Court slowly cleared aside from the young man who had spoken earlier.
Arya sat down and watched them all quietly.
Soon no one was left.
She looked at the young man, "So, what side are you on?"
"Yours, your Highness. I merely wanted to thank you." He trembled under her gaze.
"For what?" She asked softly. "Calm down, it's not like I bite."
"I apologize. I wanted to thank you for all you've done for us. I wouldn't have this aide job if not for you." He coughed harshly, turning away from her for a moment. When he had stopped, he turned back to face her. "I am glad you weren't removed. I wish I was going to live to see how you improve us in the future."
"You have the wasting disease?"
He nodded. "I am not expected to survive the month. But I will die knowing we have a Queen who cares about all Q'tan, not just the pompous fools at Court. It makes me happy."
She motioned him closer, "Come here a moment."
He approached slowly, kneeling in front of the throne.
She focused a moment before covering him in pink light. She continued to focus for a while, working on healing up some of the damage from his disease.
He remained quiet, his eyes on the ground.
After a bit, she asked, "How are you feeling?"
He raised his head in shock, his eyes wide. "Better, your Highness. But you did not have to honor me so."
"I wanted to help," she smiled softly. "What's your name?"
"Jack."
"Nice to meet you. So you're an aide here?"
"Yes. At least I was. The man you killed was my boss." He gave her a small smile. "He was a cruel person. He was forced to accept me to look good."
"Well, you can be my aide now," she smiled.
"Your Highness?" He swallowed hard, panic showing on his face.
"Nothing to be afraid of. I just need someone at Court to keep an eye on things and let me know what's going on. Basically, you'd keep hanging around here and inform me when they make big decisions without me. You'd be paid well."
"Money means little to a dying man, your Highness. But I am unworthy to be your aide."
"You are worthy. And if I can keep healing you, you'll live longer."
"Why are you being so kind to me? I am a lowly aide."
"I'm kind to everyone, until given a reason not to be."
"I will endeavour to never let you have a reason. I will not let you down." Jack said firmly.
"Where do you live?" She asked softly.
"The anchis zone. Near the dragon forest."
She nodded slowly, "I didn't realize there was an anchis zone..How bad is it?"
"Better than the Colony. But not as nice as here." He shrugged.
"Do you have family?"
He shook his head. "My parents died when I was very young. I am alone."
"Well, I have a lot of rooms around here if you'd rather live closer to Court and have somewhere nicer to stay? Or you could stay at my house and just portal here daily?" She looked thoughtful. "If you'd like, of course. You are free to keep staying where you live now, just thought I'd offer you nicer arrangements if you're going to be helping me."
"I am not allowed to live here." He gave her a look. "You would allow me in your home?"
She nodded with a smile.
"I..I am.." He stammered nervously, dropping his eyes.
"You don't have to, if you don't want. I just want to help you," she continued to smile softly.
"I'm not refusing!" He said quickly. "I'm just surprised you wish an unworthy person in your home."
She smiled, "You're not unworthy in my eyes."
He let out a small sob, his shoulders shaking slightly.
"Come on, why don't I show you my place." She stood and opened a portal.
He took a deep breath, then rose.
She stepped through and waited for him.
He hesitated, then followed. His knees buckled as his eyes took in the surroundings. "It's too nice.."
She caught him gently, "Come on, I'll show you to a room and then you can meet everyone." She led him down the hall to an empty room.
He opened the door and froze. "This is mine?"
"Yeah.. is it okay?"
"It has a bed.." He said slowly.
"Look, I don't know what you're used to, but if the anchis area doesn't have beds for people, I'm definitely going to have to go get them some.."
"We live in rooms on the floor. I share with ten others. Woven mats and single blankets. No heat, air or water. We have a single well in the forest." He entered the room slowly and sat on the bed gingerly.
"Well, I'll talk to my friend Daigo and see if we can't build a better place where there's less people in a room, beds, heat, air, and water. But this is your room, all to yourself."
"It is not allowed. We may be free of the Colony, but we are still outcasts. I thank you for this." He bowed deeply.
"It's allowed if I say it is..right?" She smirked.
He laughed softly.
She smiled, "Well, why don't I introduce you to everyone? My husband, our kids, my Fae brothers. I think our dragon friend is still not home.. We have a unicorn out in the stables too.." She rambled a bit.
"Will you not get in trouble for this?" Jack asked anxiously.
"No..? Who would I get in trouble with?"
"Your husband?"
"No, he won't care."
"Arya?" A quiet voice asked from beside her.
She looked over and raised an eyebrow, "What's up?"
"How do I say this? Your son is being a pain." The man scratched one pointed ear with a scowl.
"Which one now?"
"Taren. He put shaving cream in my pillow. I believe it was a dare."
She chuckled, "Alright. I'll talk to him about it." She looked at Jack, "Oh, Jack, this is Kharis. Kharis, Jack."
The elf bowed. "I take it I should set out an extra plate at dinner? By the way, Tomoya is bringing Kimito home and locking him in the stables."
She raised an eyebrow again, "Why the stables?"
"Because he tried to run away. And shifted when Tomoya stopped him. Apparently, they fought and your husband is quite annoyed."
She nodded slowly, "Alright.."
He chuckled softly. "Maybe you can defuse the situation." He headed down the hall, maneuvering around Ryon and Yamae as they ran toward her.
"You're home!" Both boys embraced her tightly.
She hugged them back, "Yeah. Things went a lot better at Court than I was expecting. How are you guys?"
"We're okay now. Got worried." Ryon peered at the silent Jack. "He scared of us?"
She chuckled, "Meet Jack."
"He's sick, isn't he?" Ryon watched Jack carefully. "Don't worry. Mom will help you."
"Jack, this is Ryon and Yamae."
"Nice to meet you.." He looked at her. "They are yours?"
"I have seven kids. Six of them are adopted though."
"Yep. Mom picked us." Yamae grinned.
"Uncle Toshi is bringing dinner. Zal is complaining about being stuck at the safehouse." Ryon reported. "Uncle Haru took Ely to the park."
"Zal was hurt pretty badly. He needs to rest more before he can come home."
"Tell him that. He says he's fine." Ryon smirked.
"ARYA!" Haru yelled.
She froze for a moment before quickly rushing toward the yelling.
He held a snarling white wolf pup under one arm as he leaned on the door heavily. "Can you calm her? I tried but she bit me."
"Ohh my baby," she gently took the wolf and rocked her in her arms.
After a few minutes, the wolf turned into a small toddler who snuggled into her chest.
Arya kissed her head softly and hummed to her.
Haru sighed in relief, laying his head wearily against the wall. He hadn't moved, his posture tense.
"How bad did she bite you?"
"She didn't draw blood. It's okay." The vampire said quickly, adjusting his stance with a guilty look.
"What's wrong?" She asked softly.
"The reason she freaked was a Fae tried to grab her. I had to kill him.." His voice was soft, pain coloring the words.
"Oh my poor baby," she kissed Ely's head again before asking Haru, "You're hurt, aren't you?"
"It's nothing. I can take care of it. I want to know why someone would try to grab her."
"Earlier today everyone got attacked. They wanted to overthrow me.." she sighed. "Probably more people who are too cowardly to fight me, trying to take me down in other ways."
"Assholes. Not sorry I killed him then." He fell to one knee, a smear of blood on the door.
She put a hand out and began healing him quietly, her other arm holding Ely tight.
He looked at the door, then blinked at her. "Sorry. I'll clean it as soon as the world settles."
"Don't worry," she said softly. "I'll take care of it."
Shouma hooked an arm under his brother in law and carried him inside. "His room or medical?"
"Let's do medical for now," she answered quietly. She followed them, setting Ely in a small chair before continuing to heal Haru.
"I'm alright." He slurred before his eyes closed.
Shouma snorted.
She finished healing him before looking at Shouma. "Oh, I kind of hired someone. He's going to keep me updated on things happening at Court."
"Good idea after today." He looked up as Jack peered in hesitantly. "This him?"
"Yeah. Jack, meet Shouma. And sleeping here is Haru. And this cutie," she picked up Ely, "is Elysia."
"The Prince?" Jack scrambled to kneel, his face reddening.
Shouma rolled his eyes. "Stand up. Don't do that."
Jack rose slowly, keeping his eyes averted. "I should leave."
"I think dinner will be here soon. You can join us before getting some good sleep. Then tomorrow you can start watching the Court for me," she smiled.
He shook his head. "I should leave. I shouldn't be here."
"Oh.. well, like I said, I'm not forcing you to stay, so if you'd rather go back, you can.." she said quietly, looking down.
"I am not worthy to be here. Your family is too nice to be around me. I should have stayed in the zone instead of coming to Court. You should not have to deal with me."
She looked at Shouma, hoping he'd know what to say.
"You're scared, aren't you?" Her brother slowly approached the young man. "You're scared and alone and wondering why anyone would be nice to you. Well, let me tell you a secret. My sister doesn't know how to treat anyone badly. She doesn't care if you're a troll or an elf or an anchis born. She treats everyone alike unless someone hurts us. So don't be afraid. She brought you here because you were in a bad situation?"
Jack shrugged. "I guess?"
Shouma glanced back at her questioningly.
"Well, I figure if he's going to be helping me, I should help him as best as I can." She sighed, "And as soon as Daigo has time, I'm going to go make the anchis zone a better place, because it doesn't sound nice."
"He was living there?" Shouma frowned as he turned back. "You are staying. Royal decree. Now quit cowering and go get ready for dinner."
Jack swallowed, then nodded and fled the room.
"Thank you.." Arya said quietly.
"No problem. He's sick, right? I've seen him around Court and wondered."
She nodded, "I helped heal him a bit. I need to take more time to help him more." She then sighed, "I killed the guy he was working for. The asshole that was sitting on my throne and probably the one who decided to overthrow me."
"Cynus. Yeah, he was the one pushing along with Talis. Nice to hear he's gone."
She sat down, holding Ely tight, "I just hope by the time she grows up, this will all be in the past and she won't have to know how bad things were."
Shouma nodded, brushing a hand over Ely's head as the front door opened.
"Arya?" Tomoya's voice called, slightly alarmed.
She carried Ely out of the room, "Hey."
"Everything alright?" He crossed to them quickly, his eyes inspecting.
"Yeah. Just a long day.." she sighed, "Someone tried to overthrow me. That's why everyone was grabbed. Someone tried to grab Ely but Haru killed him. He's alright, but asleep in medical. She was upset and shifted."
"Is everything settled now?" His eyes narrowed as Jack tried to slip past Shouma, only to be forced into a chair.
"I think so.." she looked at what he was watching and shook her head. "That's Jack. He's going to be helping me."
"He looks a bit uncomfortable." Tomoya took Ely from her.
"He thinks he's unworthy to be here.."
"One of them again? I swear, half your kingdom needs therapy. Most people would be overjoyed you want them to help you."
"Most of the kingdom needs therapy," she chuckled. "Probably me included."
He kissed her softly. "I love you just the way you are."
"Toya! Come get scaly's plate." Hitoshi waved at him.
"What happened with Kimito?"
"I locked him in the stable. He really pisses me off sometimes."
"What did he do?"
"Tried to run. Said he was a poor excuse for a friend. I yelled at him, he shifted and tried to barbeque me."
She shook her head, "I'll go talk to him, okay?"
"Good luck." Tomoya took Ely into the kitchen and settled her into her high chair as the rest of the kids entered with Ryusei trailing behind.
Arya took a plate and headed out to the stables.
She could hear boots kicking against one of the stalls.
"I'm going to kick your ass, you jerk! Let me out!"
"That's not very nice," she said softly as she spotted him.
"Arya. Let me out, will you?" He yanked at the chain keeping him against the wall.
"I heard you tried to run. What happened?"
"I couldn't protect Keisuke. Why any of you want me around is beyond me. Safer away from everyone."
"Keisuke is alright now though. And we all care about you." She sighed, "And don't start with that. I'm the one causing danger for everyone. Ryu and Shouma, the kids, Tomoya, and Haru were all hurt today because the Fae are mad at me."
He cocked his head. "Are you kidding? If it weren't for you, we'd all have been dead years ago. You're the best damn thing to happen to all of us."
"I don't feel like it.." she sighed and looked down.
"Now who's having a pity party?" The dragon rolled his eyes.
She sighed and handed him the plate. "Sorry.."
"No, I am. That was rude." He sat down with a sigh. "Another reason I am a bad friend."
She shook her head, "You tried your best to protect Keisuke. You're a great friend."
He stared at the plate. "Tell that to Toya. I tried to kill him…" He shakily put it down, wrapping his arms around his knees and putting his head down. He began to shake soundlessly.
"He's just worried about you." She said softly, approaching and wrapping her arms around him.
"You should have left me dead." The words were muffled.
"Now who's having a pity party?" She answered quietly.
"The dragons are about to be wiped out. I don't want to be the last of my kind…"
"I'm sorry, hun. I've sent letters to Court to try to stop the hunting.."
"Not hunting. The ass who attacked us said they were going to burn the forest down and wipe us all out." He raised his head. "They're going to send missiles in."
She looked thoughtful, "Why don't we create a dragon refuge? Kind of like the orphanage but for dragons?"
"We don't trust anybody. Especially the Fae." He shook his head.
"We could build it on the property here, out far from the house.. They don't have to know a Fae was involved.. You could just tell them about it and I'd give you the money and stuff to take care of them."
He stared at her. "Why would you do this?"
She gave a small laugh, "Don't you know by now, I'm just a nice person? Plus I feel bad that my people have hurt yours so much."
"We're dangerous." He watched her.
"If they'd just get to know you.. they'd see that isn't entirely true. You can be, when you want to be. But you can be nice too. I wish we could have a peace treaty between our people.."
"We're not officially at war. We were once allied with the trolls until we were driven out. Your grandfather allowed us the use of the forest against the Court's wishes."
She nodded slowly, "I still want to help the best I can.. whether it's a refuge or creating more laws, or whatever. Just let me know what I can do.." She sat down, leaning against a side wall.
"I should not have brought it up. You have enough problems."
"I want you to bring up these problems.. It affects the magical world, so it affects me as Queen of the Q'tan and as a hunter. I know I have a lot going on, but I still want to help. You're important to me, plus, I don't want an entire race killed. It's not right." She put her head on her knees. "I just want to help as many people as I can.. it's why I became a cop. Sometimes I wish things would go back to being that simple though.."
"You wish to go back before you knew us?" Daigo stood in the doorway to the stall quietly.
"You know that's not exactly what I meant. I love you guys and am so glad I know you and have the children. But being a human was much more simple."
"It could be accomplished." The wizard shrugged. "We love you as well and hate seeing you troubled. It might be better for you."
"It doesn't matter what's better for me. What matters is, what's best for everyone else. I care more about them than myself. As Queen, I can try to help as many people as possible, more than I could with the police." She looked up, "Speaking of, would you be able to help me build a new place for those living in the anchis zone? They're living on mats, ten to a room, no heat or water.."
"Would your Court not resist?"
"They can go screw themselves. Most of them are cowards. They talk big, but when it comes to acting on it, they don't do shit."
Kimito snickered as Daigo smiled.
"As you wish. I will help." The wizard looked at her. "The offer is open if you ever want it."
"Thanks, but I think I'm alright." She looked at Kimito, "So what are we going to do about you dragons?"
"I don't want to cause problems. I'll just go back and face our fate."
She shook her head and looked back at Daigo, "On the outskirts of the property, do you think we could build a dragon refuge?"
"It is possible. It would take at least two days."
"What do you think, Kimito? Would you tell them about it?"
"I'll tell them, but it probably won't do any good." He sighed and laid his head back, closing his eyes.
She looked thoughtful, "I'll hang out near the forest and make a barrier if they do try to shoot missiles.."
Kimito didn't answer, his breathing slow and even.
"I do believe he's fallen asleep." Daigo said with a smile.
She nodded and gently undid him from the chain holding him to the wall. She looked at Daigo, "If you want to start a dragon refuge, you can. Not sure it'll be used. Or you can go help at the anchis zone. I'm going to camp out near there, keeping an eye on the forest."
"I can do both easily." Daigo bent and lifted Kimito. "I will take him in."
She nodded and moved from the stall. She checked on Seraphina before heading inside to grab camping gear.
"You going somewhere? Did you talk to scaly?" Tomoya leaned against a wall.
"Daigo is bringing him in. I'm going to camp out near the forest and make sure no one burns it down. I guess there was talk of sending missiles in."
"Is that why he was stressed?"
"Seems like. We are going to try building a dragon refuge for anyone interested."
"Good luck. Haven't you ever wondered why you've never met any others?"
She sighed, "I know.. but I want to try to help anyway."
"That's my Princess. By the way, Ryu drugged your new aide."
Arya rolled her eyes, "Alright.."
"He tried to talk Ryu into sending him back so he could hide. Thought you would forget about him."
"Well, if he wants to go back, he's going back to a nicer place because Dai is helping me make the anchis zone better."
"Good to hear. You sure you should go alone?"
"I'll be alright, just keep an eye on the kids," she kissed him softly.
"Be careful."
She nodded and portaled between the forest and anchis zone. She set up her tent in a hidden area and went to sleep. She woke a while later, hearing noises. Sneaking out, she threw up a barrier in front of the forest.
"Okay men! Get the launchers ready!"
She was hidden behind a tree where they couldn't see her. She focused on a few of them that she spotted, firing at them with her pistol. The bullets exited the barrier but she knew nothing and no one would be able to come into it.
The men fired, smoke filling the area as the missiles launched toward the forest.
Arya struggled to hold the barrier but continued, the missiles falling to the ground and exploding.
The men exchanged questioning looks, then the leader frowned. "Must be a barrier of some kind on this side." He spoke into a radio. "Right side, are you ready?"
A voice answered. "Yes sir. Awaiting command."
"Fire."
Arya quickly focused, sensing the forest and expanding the barrier around as far as she could.
A moment later, the voice was back. "Sir! The missiles hit some kind of barrier and exploded!"
The man scowled. "Keep firing until you break through." He turned to the men beside him. "Do the same. We have orders and must carry them out."
Arya held tight to the tree she was standing behind. She continued projecting the barrier, feeling herself growing weaker. She knew she was a lot stronger since being healed of her illness, but a barrier this big took a lot of energy.
Repeated explosions slammed into the barrier from both sides, making it shake.
She closed her eyes to focus harder, her vision having started to swim.
She could hear shouting behind her.
She opened her eyes and turned to look.
Several people were staring at her in shock and anger.
"Why are you here? Are you helping them?" A man asked with a scowl.
"What my people are doing isn't right. I never made orders to attack the forest, but I doubt they'd listen if I commanded them to stop, so I'm trying to protect it with a barrier. I've made orders to stop hunting, I never thought something like this would happen."
"You Fae don't care about anyone but yourselves! And only if you're nobles, at that. We're supposed to believe you?" The man spat back angrily.
"I'm the Queen. I was raised human, so I'm not like most Fae. I've been making many changes that my people do not like, trying to give rights to the anchis born of our kind, ordering hunting of other races to stop, and anything else I can do to make the Fae a better people. You don't have to believe me, but I am trying to help. Why do you think none of their missiles have hit the forest yet?"
An older woman put her hand on his arm. "Trust her, Agon. I have heard many rumors about her."
The man sighed heavily. "Are you sure, Maya?"
The woman nodded. "We should not distract her. We must go back to the children."
"Try to get out of the forest. They're firing from these two directions, so you can go another," Arya pointed, "I'm just worried I won't be able to hold the barrier much longer and I do not want any of you hurt."
"There is nowhere to go. The other side is a sheer cliff to the ocean." Agon responded quietly. "We are resigned to our fate. You should go back to your Court."
"I'll keep holding the barrier as long as possible. Hopefully they'll give up before I lose my energy."
She focused for a moment then thought of an idea, "Shouma, is there any way you can send someone to stop these attacks on the forest? I don't know if they'll listen if I just try to go talk to them, and I'm currently holding up a barrier."
"Ryu and I are speaking to Court right now. It's ugly but I think we're making progress."
"Thanks. I'll keep trying to hold on then." She closed her eyes again.
"One more thing- Kimito is there somewhere. He said he wanted to die with his people."
Arya rolled her eyes, "Alright."
The attacks were increasing rapidly, seemingly never ending. The barrier was flickering in and out of existence.
She pushed her energy out harder, praying her brothers would get through in time. She felt herself growing weaker by the second though, and didn't know how much longer she'd last.
"Is the tank ready?" The commander asked.
"Yes sir!"
"Fire at will. That should destroy the barrier so we can carry out our orders."
There was the sound of something shrieking through the air, then an explosion shook the forest.
She continued trying to hold the barrier in place but soon, the darkness was taking over her mind. She felt her body go limp before she completely lost consciousness.
The commander smiled as the barrier disappeared and the forest began to burn. "Men, move in. Kill everything that moves. Destroy all buildings."
Arya woke slowly, struggling to breathe. She weakly pushed herself up, coughing heavily as she made her way further into the forest to try to find the dragons to save them.
"You're alive.." The woman from before ran to her side, wrapping an arm around her.
"I tried.. I'm so sorry..." she whispered before going into another coughing fit.
"The men suddenly left. We were saved by you." Maya helped her sit down. "We will recover in time. The men are.. digging graves…" Her face twisted and she tried not to sob.
Arya took a moment before speaking, "Let me see the dead. Please. I know it sounds crazy, but I might be able to help."
Maya took a deep breath, then led her to a destroyed building where men were carrying out small bodies.
"We hid the children in the school…" Maya couldn't hold back the tears anymore. "One of the missiles hit, then the men came…"
Arya nodded slowly, then focused her energy on the bodies. She started by slowly healing them, then gathered a larger amount of energy and forced it into them.
The children began moving causing the men to shout in confusion.
Arya gave a small smile before moving to sit for a moment.
Maya stared at her in shock for a moment, then made a strangled noise as Agon carried a larger body out and threw it into a pit and turned away.
Arya frowned and went out to look at the body.
Kimito lay on top of several dead Fae, his body riddled with burns and bullets. His grown out hair lay obscuring his eyes.
"Move." Agon pushed her aside as he threw another dead Fae onto the pile, covering the dragon.
Arya quickly climbed in, pulling Kimito out and cradling him with a sob.
"Why are you crying over the feraykin?" Agon watched in confusion. "He is not worthy of tears."
"Feraykin?" she asked quietly.
"He is outcast. No longer one of us and unworthy of mourning." Agon turned away.
Arya growled, "He's my friend. Family. I don't expect you to understand, but you should treat him better. He came here to help! He came here because he wanted to die with his people! All he does is care about you guys and you treat him like shit? I don't know what he did in the past, but he deserves so much better. If you don't want him, that's fine, he's wanted elsewhere where we care about and love him." She stood with him in her arms, preparing to open a portal to take him home.
"He abandoned us! Left us for treasure!" Agon hissed.
"No, he didn't." Maya said quietly, approaching Arya. She brushed Kimito's hair back with a small sob. "He left to help us. He's been sending money to make our lives better all these years.. We were able to build the school because of him.." She gently kissed Kimito's forehead before wrapping her arms around him, her shoulders shaking.
"You said you had stashed that money away…" Agon said slowly.
"He didn't want me thrown out. Told me to not reveal it was from him." Maya answered through her tears. "Oh my brave Kimito…"
Arya took a deep breath and began pouring pink light into him. The wounds slowly healed up before she forced more energy into him.
He jerked, gasping for air as Maya jumped back in fear.
Arya held him tight, continuing to pour her pink light, making sure he was alright.
"The kids...save the kids…" He slurred the words half conscious.
"Don't worry, they're safe," she said softly.
He nodded slowly, his eyes opening halfway and landing on Maya. He stiffened, whispering "I have to leave. Now."
"Take it easy," Arya answered.
"I am feraykin. I should not be here…" He tried to rise, avoiding Maya's gaze. "If everyone is safe, I have to leave. There's nothing here for me."
Arya sighed, "If you really want to leave, I'll make a portal home. But I don't think you have to worry so much."
"Kimi..don't go." Maya reached out to embrace him.
"Don't call me that!" His voice was anguished. "Don't..don't make me want what I can never have. Arya, take me away from here."
"She doesn't seem to want you to leave though," Arya analyzed.
"I am no longer her.." Kimito's voice broke and he struggled for control. "I am feraykin. I am not one of them."
"Everything you do is for them! You deserve to be here." She squeezed his arm gently.
He shook his head, tears streaming down his face. "I have no family..I do not exist…" He buried his face in Arya's shoulder as Maya put her hands to her face and sobbed.
"Hun, I'm pretty sure Maya is your family. You know, outside of the rest of us. You are one of them, you are important, you do exist. All you do is for them, you deserve to be here with them. You only left to help them, not to abandon them."
Agon slowly approached, laying a hand on Kimito's shoulder.
The dragon flinched.
"Welcome home, Kimito Tragas." Agon moved away as Kimito's head shot up in confusion.
"See? Everything is alright."
His eyes darted from Arya to Maya, his body trembling.
Arya hugged him, "You're okay. They know what you've been doing to help."
He went still, then said softly "You've figured it out haven't you?"
"Hmm?"
He inclined his head toward Maya. "You said you were pretty sure she was family."
"She's your mom, right?"
He gave Arya a shaky smile. "Yeah. But our law says once outcast you never existed. I sent her money in secret so she wouldn't get in trouble. When I got news of the attack, I had to come protect her…"
"Good thing you're welcomed back. You two can spend time together again," Arya smiled softly, "And I know you tried your best to protect her. Everything is safe now." She turned away to cough again.
"You're hurt?" He asked in alarm.
"Just smoke inhalation," she caught her breath.
He nodded slowly, then slumped over unconscious.
"Kimito!" Maya scrambled over to them alarmed.
Arya scanned him over, "He'll be alright, just needs rest. Do you want to keep him here or should I take him home?"
"I don't want to scare him or anything. You'll take care of him, right?" Maya cupped his cheek with a soft look.
"Of course. Always do."
She hesitated for a moment, her fingers tracing Kimito's face. "Would you.." She shook her head and began to turn away.
"Hmm?" Arya asked softly.
"You wouldn't want to. I am not even close to being your status."
"Ask anyway," she smiled.
"Would you honor me by resting awhile in my home? I will make tea to help you." Maya asked timidly.
"That would be nice," she smiled again. "And just so you know, I care not about status. I'm trying to get equal rights for all classes of my people."
Maya gave her a small smile. "I hope you succeed. Is he heavy? I can get Agon."
"It's alright," Arya hefted Kimito up.
Maya nodded, leading her to a small house. She opened the door and invited Arya inside. "The second bedroom is his."
She nodded and set him down gently in the bed. She then went out and looked around.
Pictures of Kimito were everywhere. From baby pictures to what she guessed were just before he'd left. He was smiling in all of them, his eyes bright with happiness.
She smiled as she looked at them all.
"He always had a smile. Even when he got hurt, he always smiled. I think he never wanted to see me cry." Maya came in bearing cups of tea, placing them on a low table. "Please sit down and drink."
She sat down and took a cup.
"Tell me, is he happy?"
"I think he'll be happier now that he can see you. I know he cares about you guys a lot." She answered. "He seems pretty happy though. There's been some rough patches of course, but he's pretty good overall."
Maya smiled. "That makes me happy. I have worried so much about him since his father died."
"He's become part of our family. There's my husband and our brothers, our children, an elf, a unicorn, and him. There's always a lot going on at our house."
"He was always lonely, being an only child. Then his father died of the scale and he decided to leave. I tried to stop him but he was determined to find a cure and keep anyone else from dying. It's begun to affect our eggs now." Maya looked thoughtful. "How does the Fae Queen meet an outcast dragon?"
Arya chuckled softly, "Remind me and I can see what I can do to help your eggs. About meeting Kimito.. Though I'm the Queen, I'm also a hunter. My first day on the job, I was sent to give him a citation. We ended up pranking my boyfriend," she smiled as she remembered the prank they pulled.
Maya laughed over her cup. "He always enjoyed pranking the other kids. Once, he pranked the school bully. He ended up with a broken arm, but all he talked about was the look in the boy's eyes." She gazed at the pictures with a soft smile, then pointed at one. "This was taken a few days after."
Arya chuckled again before smiling at the picture.
Kimito was dressed in a robe, one arm in a sling. He was laughing at something out of frame.
"His father was telling jokes before snapping the photos. They were very close. He quit his studies to take care of him so I could continue working in the tea fields. He was his father's dream. I had never had an egg hatch before Kimi and never did again."
"Was that hard for you?" Arya asked quietly.
"Yes and no." Maya shrugged and put her cup down. "I came from a large family. But with the scale, I knew a lot of children was unlikely. I had resigned myself when Kimi's egg hatched. I was happier than I knew I could be raising him. Then his father died, he left and I was alone. At least I was able to see him again before I join his father." She tried to hide a wince as she rose at a noise from the bedroom.
Arya watched her quietly.
"Get away from them you cowards!" Kimito's voice began shouting.
Arya stood and went to his side, pushing calming energy into him. "Everything is alright."
He blinked his eyes open, looking around in confusion. "Arya? Where?"
"We're at your moms house."
He scrambled out of the bed in alarm. "I can't be here…"
"Shh, it's alright."
He closed his eyes and tried to slow his breathing. "She's going to be angry at me.."
"She's not going to be angry at all," Arya assured.
"She tried to stop me. I wouldn't listen and have hurt her all these years. I'm a lousy son."
"You're not a bad son. You were just trying to help. You need to be gentler with yourself. She is just happy to see you."
"I failed. She's going to die just like Dad did. How I was supposed to."
"I'll see what I can do to help her."
He sat down on the bed. "Why did you save me?"
"You're my friend and I care about you."
"I'm not worth caring about. I can't even save a school full of children. I'm a failure." He hung his head. "At least I won't have to pack before leaving."
Arya rolled her eyes, "Will you shut up? You tried your best and that's what is important. Not everyone can do everything, what's important is the work and energy you put into it." She sighed, "Your mom cares about you, and I'll see what I can do to help her."
"Do not worry about me. I am more concerned with you, Kimi. I've missed you so much." Maya entered the room slowly. "You should not blame yourself. You were very brave and I am glad you were restored."
Kimito raised his eyes, tears streaking his face. "I missed you too…" He ran to her, wrapping his arms around her and sobbing into her shoulder.
She gave a soft smile and held him tight. "You're my miracle child and I will always love you. No matter what. Remember that."
Arya watched them with a quiet smile.
They separated a few moments later, Maya wincing as she took a shallow breath.
Kimito's eyes grew panicked, his hands tightening on his mother's.
Arya moved to her side, pouring pink light over her.
When she could breathe again, Maya chuckled. "You are very kind to a old lady."
Arya smiled softly and continued for a while, healing up more of the damage.
There were sudden shouts from outside.
Kimito went to the window and cursed. "Take care of her. I'll sort this out." He opened the door and went out, closing it behind him.
Arya sighed and shook her head but continued to pour her energy into Maya.
Several minutes later, the door reopened. "Help me, will you? He's heavy for being so skinny." Tomoya called out.
Arya raised an eyebrow and went to help him.
The hunter was supporting an unconscious Ryusei, Kimito standing outside facing an angry crowd.
"What's going on?" Arya asked.
"They're being idiots. Biting the hand that's trying to help." Kimito answered angrily. "He started healing and they attacked him."
Arya nodded and helped Ryu inside, checking him over.
Aside from a swelling lump on his head, he had no other injuries.
Maya quickly handed Arya an ice pack, then waved Kimito inside. "They won't come in."
Tomoya gave the dragon a look as he closed the door. "I should kick your ass for what you pulled. But I don't want Arya mad at me."
Kimito's face turned red. "Sorry. How pissed is he?"
"He's threatening to finger paint after he fills you full of holes." Tomoya shrugged. "He'll calm down eventually."
"What happened?"
"Dragon breath here suckerpunched Ryon. Then he tied him up and used one of Daigo's freeze spells on him before he came here. Our psycho child is threatening violence."
"You suckerpunched one of my children?!" Arya looked at Kimito.
He shrank back from her glare. "To be fair, he hit me first." He swallowed hard, then dropped to his knees. "I'm sorry! I swear I'll never do it again!"
She gently put a hand on his shoulder, "It's alright. You have to answer to him though and that might be worse than what I'd do to you," she chuckled softly.
Kimito shuddered. "I'm so dead, aren't I?"
"You know how Ryon can get. But I'll ask him to go easy on you."
He chuckled slightly as Ryu gave a hiss of pain.
Arya looked back at her brother, "Are you okay?"
"Feel like an idiot." He sat up slowly, one hand clutching the ice pack. "Should have contacted you."
"It's alright. You were just trying to help." She smiled softly.
"Shouma and Jack are settling things at Court. What's the situation here?" Ryusei finally relaxed against the cushions.
"I think everyone is doing alright. I revived who I could. I held the barrier long enough to hold off most of the damage. Some of their buildings are destroyed but we can fix them up unless they'd rather the refuge idea. Haven't brought that up yet. Things might be alright now though if we can keep our people from attacking anymore. Who ordered them to attack? Court in general or someone specific?"
"Everyone says they're innocent. Could have been Cynus before you killed him. Don't quite care. I told Shouma to kill them all. He told me to go clear my head. So I came here."
She nodded, "None of them fessed up to disagreeing with me either. Most Fae seem to be cowards.." she shook her head. "I hope the future generations are better than them."
Tomoya wrapped an arm around her. "I'm sure they will be. When are you coming home?"
"Soon, probably. I was just talking to Maya and helping her a bit."
"I should return to Court." Ryusei stood, then grimaced and swayed. "Owww."
"Shouma can handle things," she said softly. "Just rest."
"Don't want to cause any more problems here." Her brother blinked owlishly at her.
"You're fine. Do you want me to make a portal so you can go home?"
"Yeah." He sighed. "Tempted to nuke Court and rebuild later."
"I understand. I was going to kill them all and start fresh." She chuckled.
"Homicidal maniacs, the both of you." Tomoya shook his head.
"You know who you married," Arya chuckled.
He laughed, then kissed her. "I do. I'll take blondie back." He turned to Kimito. "You staying or coming?"
Kimito looked at Maya, who smiled at him. He sighed. "I don't know…"
"Kimi, go home. You need to rest. I'll see you soon." Maya went to his side and kissed his cheek.
"But.."
"Kimito Vanil Targas, you listen to your mother."
"Yes ma'am." Kimito looked apologetic.
Arya chuckled and looked at Maya, "It was nice meeting you. I hope to see you again."
"I am glad he has such a caring family. And I'm not that old. I will see you both again."
She smiled and opened a portal, waiting for the others to enter before disappearing through it.