Walkswithwheels: Hi, sorry I haven't updated in a while! I'm finally back, better than ever! A lot of things happened in my life, but all of it was good (except for getting fever twice -_-).
Glory: She's back with new events, new characters, and new mysteries! The story will be better than ever!
Walkswithwheels: Hey, where's everybody else?
Glory: Well, since this next chapter is all about me, I decide to narrate the author's notes! *Smiles broadly*
Walkswithwheels: Aren't you narrating the whole story?
Glory: Yes, but that's a minor thing!
Walkswithwheels: Well, we all know what your definition of minor is. *Heaves a deep sigh* Say the disclaimer.
Glory: The author does not own any of the characters or settings, except for ones she created. Everything not original is property of the respective companies.
Walkwithwheels: Please read and review!
6: Flawed
My feet soared like wings as they pumped me along athletically. I laughed cheerfully, paying no heed to whatever confused and innocent bystanders got in my way. I didn't even try to dodge, running into people rather rudely. I still had enough of my manners to give them a hurried "excuse me" but by that time one could consider it already too late. The passerby got the message and made way for me as I dashed gleefully through the streets. I didn't thank any of them for it, but hopefully my crazy smile would be enough.
The greatest oddity about my situation was I didn't really have a goal. Sure, I was sprinting towards the next available food source, but I had no idea when or where I would find my target. My wild, somewhat insane demeanor proved just how long it had been since I'd been free from my duties. As the wind whipped in my hair, I felt as carefree as a pint sized mortal girl. The shackles of grief from earlier were completely gone. The birds would rival for the sky and even that which lay beyond. Once again, walls did not know me and they never would. Yet, this was completely different from my power of creation. With my current demeanor, I did not ostracize myself. Rather, this let it be known that I could be just like the beings I watched over. Familiar behavior did not close doors; it opened them.
Earlier, I told myself I could never play like a child.
Now I realized just how wrong I was.
One did not need dolls to be happy. Tiny games did not always lead to satisfaction. Parades around the villages were not pleasing for all. Shopping quickly could leave one exhausted and no more. Of course, the true fun lovers would enjoy everything that came to them, but adults would have different pastimes. Thoughts of these meanings occupied my brain as I sped along effortlessly. Perhaps I underestimated how content I really was, as this seemed to shine the light among my fellow man. Then again, maybe I was just a simple soul who did not think outside of that which could be easily comprehended.
Nevertheless, I would enjoy each day to its fullest, and this was one of the times my true personality was showcased.
If I was forced into my duty, I might as well love it, regardless of whether I was involved directly or not.
While fulfilling my seemingly stupid desires, my powers ran ahead of me unbridled, like a wild stallion racing across the land. Perhaps I was that, with my arms posing as front legs. The invisible wings propelled me along, allowing me to dash merrily across all terrain. I could sense the townspeople's confusion, but they were overpowered by my own carefree demeanor. I couldn't divulge or harvest their feelings, because my own was soaring along in front of me. It sped faster than a bullet, covering all in its undetectable radiance. In that manner was like the golden light, but I knew this would never blind anyone. All forms of bondage crashed to the ground; my happiness was all that mattered now. My senses detected the comfortable warmth of joy, but the process was reversed. Instead of being taken in from the outside world, the power radiated from within me and spread rapidly. I did not lose my strength; rather it increased. The more troubles I put aside, the longer I kept going. I broke into a full run, not caring that I was eclipsing even the strongest human being. The speed my powers brought me was nothing less than incredible, and I intended to use it. Besides, my friends already knew of my true bloodline, so what was the harm in invoking that which came with it?
As I sped across the area, my sights were redirected to what was occurring behind me. While I could not see anything physically, my spiritual and psychic powers proved themselves useful. The images immediately projected as visions that did not hinder my movements or current situation. It was a relief to know that they were safe, yet also extremely comical considering what was happening now.
It seemed my friends had taken the "race" to heart, despite the fact that it was completely pointless.
Rorando was not using Lioak, playing it fair as any decent knight would. The horse was nowhere to be found, so this verified my previous assumption of his owner knowing the carrying spell. The horseman tried desperately to surpass Richelle, who was in second place. His face was contorted as he strained, and one could see the beads of sweat upon his face. Rorando's teeth were not smiling, but rather gritted in invisible agony. Yet he beheld a fierce determination that was evident in his powerful strides. As he jogged, Rorando's feet left hardly any dust in their wake. They flew over the ground, propelling him toward his destination. This rapid speed seemed unbelievable as he pushed himself forward. It looked as though he too had grown invisible wings, and I had to admire this impressive feat coming from a mortal. Rorando's red face was a dead giveaway of how hard he was struggling, and I couldn't help pitying the man. He was probably hotter than a furnace by now. At the same time, I realized that losing was his greatest foe. This would make sense, as a knight was taught never to flee from a battle.
Fraudir, however, was about to have him taste the pain even more.
She darted about, clearly enjoying the little game. Her femininity had returned, and for once I was grateful. Fraudir's hair whipped in her face, but it (strangely) did not hinder her vision. She let out a high-pitched giggle, which was still the bane of my ears. Oh how I wished I could cover them! Fraudir had broken into the world's widest giddy grin. It covered her entire face, and showed no signs of leaving. Unlike Rorando, she looked like she could continue the race all day. Fraudir did not even pause as she finally lifted her hair from her face. Of course, the wind she generated blew it back again, but she obviously did not consider this a problem. Fraudir did not need wings to fly. In fact, she did not look like she was soaring at all. Instead of constantly straining herself, she loped ahead in an easy-going manner. The long strides were not those of desperation, but completely carefree. Her grace was unmatched by a swan.
Her childlike but pleasant response to the situation brought a smile to my own face.
What a treat it was to be that cheerful!
Ehlen, unfortunately, I could not say the same for.
His face was one of frustration and slight confusion from the turn of events. He trailed behind the others, prone to the punishment for those at the back of the pack. Ehlen did not strain as much as Rorando, but still constantly let fatigue be known. Rather than keeping a steady pace, he would burst into sprinting spontaneously. When he did, his speed was unmatched. My mouth almost dropped open at the rate at which Ehlen's power propelled him along. As soon as he hit his stride, he became an unrecognizable blur. His legs must have been kicking in a flurry, but one would never know it; they had virtually turned invisible.
However, the poor man was the very vessel of misfortune.
Within minutes, his body would reject the internal request it had been forced to comply with.
Ehlen's gallop repeatedly grinded to a screeching halt and he was forced to helplessly and pathetically pick through the wreckage. Ehlen floundered, powerlessly drowning in the sea of debris. He swam, sputtered, and struggled, but his crude efforts were fruitless. There was nothing to grab onto, and there probably never would be.
Yet Ehlen hopelessly tried to save himself. He broke into periodic speed bursts in order to remedy the situation. Regrettably, it did not rectify his problem. After several failures in his quest, Ehlen eventually gave up.
After that, I bore witness to the slowest walk in the complete history of all humanity. It was not so much a proper movement as it was a man dragging himself to a designated location. In stark contrast to before, his feet barely budged. Ehlen's body sagged, and quickly lost his once proud stance. He leaned so far forward I thought he would fall over. Ehlen's arms fell uselessly to his sides, and his eyes drooped like a weeping willow. His position in race would have been silent, if not for his labored gasping. So distressing was the sound I considered performing CPR. Luckily, I knew better. Ehlen's pallid face told stories of fatigue, and perspiration poured off of him like waterfalls. The man moaned so loudly I thought the ground would tremble.
I was completely certain he would suffer the agony of defeat. I prayed he was prepared to accept the punishment, insignificant as it was.
Simultaneously, this realization stabbed me like a sharp sword to the gut.
It didn't matter how much training or devotion my warriors had. No mortal was invincible.
Of course, plenty of storytellers could say I was, but I often doubted the belief. After all, if I was truly untouchable, how could I relate with my people?
There was no better time than the present do this; oh, poor Ehlen!
It would be much better if Aaron could take his place.
The other Seer's jaunty and joyful expressions differed sharply from the desperate demeanor of the man behind him. This did not surprise me, considering his earlier behavior at the item purchase. Out of all of us, he seemed to be the only one to have gotten the message that this was not a true competition Aaron was unwinding like a used toy, and I was glad for it. This is my original intent of our awkward fight. Aaron jogged at a brisk pace, showcasing evident effort, but taking his time. The grin Aaron's countenance beheld could rival my own. If possible, it would have stretched out far wider than his face allowed. Unlike Ehlen, Aaron kept a steady pace, giving away the fact that that he knew his limits. Either that, or he was intentionally slowing down to see the sights. Aaron walked with a spring in his step, something that the other feverish players of my game did not possess. His body was clean despite the exercise, and his face colored and healthy. It took me only a second to realize my original assumptions had been erroneous. He was not utilizing the pinnacle of his power, but rather allowing himself to be guided by pure serenity. I thought about turning around to shoot him a smile, but the risk of running into something was too great.
And so I kept up my childish banter, scurrying around the area like a mouse. I continued flying on my invisible wings, scouring for any place that would provide the means to satisfy my clawing hunger. The race had only made my problem worse, and I ignored the growls that wracked my body and shook my stomach like a rag doll. Thanks to my nature, I had no immediate need for food, but there was only so much I could take. If I did not find something soon, I would either have to forfeit my lead or halt the race early.
Just when I considered this fact, a wave bombarded my senses. It told nothing of emotion, instead relying on physical desires. I opened my mouth, tasting the air as it wafted towards me. Instinctively, my tongue was drenched, and I swallowed rapidly to prevent the saliva from flowing over. I did not need my divine powers for this, and yet this profile was as detailed as if I had used them. My acute awareness was kicking in again; I didn't have to take a guess to know what it was being triggered by.
My internal cries had been answered.
It was not a moment too soon.
I welcomed the sensation like one would a precious gem.
The aura of my desires hit me like an arrow. It caused pain, but from my stomach rather than the rest of me. The power which was channeled from what lay ahead spoke of lavish accoutrements. Powerful aromas indulged the senses. I stretched out my hands, hopelessly groping for what I detected. I had seen the very skies of paradise, yet nothing could compare to what I experienced here.
I was overtaken like a sailor to a siren, but contrarily, I knew this would only do me good.
Instead of melodies, I was told of food.
It was rich and plentiful, even more so on an empty stomach. Today was a special day, so even a rural village like this could prepare its best. They were probably foreign cooks and restaurants around.
Sure enough, my hunch proved right. I soon spotted a small gray building on my left. It did not look too ornate, but still had the fine upkeep of a restaurant. The place was quaint and sheltered, perfect for the end of the race. As I drew closer, I could see it was quite large. The employees could easily accommodate all of us, and more besides. I rapidly dodged a party leaving the area, but I did not hear excessive noise. It was rather late for lunch, so most people would've already dined. Then there was also the matter of decor; even the persnickety types showed up where they didn't belong.
Waving to my friends, I signaled I'd found the target. Without waiting, I ducked into the building and crossed the finish line.
I sprinted in with all my strength, ignoring the stares I may have gotten. My flushed face and ecstatic grin had not left since the start. They appeared to be glued on permanently and I had no need to unstick them. Painting from my exertion, I pumped my fist into the air triumphantly.
"I won! I got first place!"
Pounding footsteps reached my ears as Richelle dashed in.
"First are the worst, second are the best!"
Fraudir rapidly followed suit.
"I got third! What does that make me?'
"Neither." Richelle and I responded in unison.
Suddenly, Rorando nearly broke down the door in his haste to end the torture. His fatigue stood out like a sore thumb, as did his frustrated countenance. So different was it from the lighthearted disposition of the females that we all smiled (Fraudir actually giggled).
"Why do you women get to have all the fun?" He cried accusingly.
"Why didn't you give up and let us win?" Fraudir teased.
"A Knight never gives up, no matter what!" Rorando hollered.
Without warning, Aaron casually walked in. He showed no trace of what had happened, and didn't even seem to realize that Rorando's episode had occurred. The older warrior's arrival was so out of place that everyone stared. Aaron didn't seem to mind this as the rest of us embarrassingly regained our politeness.
"Ah, that was a refreshing run! Glory, what an excellent idea!"
I resisted the urge to blush; I had hardly been sane.
"Oh no, it wasn't my idea. I had an evil twin that possessed me."
At that moment my compatriots burst into hearty laughter, Aaron's by no doubt the loudest.
"Glory, you truly are a joy!"
"All right, then I will make sure to be stupid again!"
The laughter halted abruptly as it was drowned out agonized panting.
The unfortunate loser of the contest dragged himself across the finish line. Ehlen's face was flushed even more so than Rorando's had been. He scrambled for the nearest table, barely grasping it with his right hand. Using all of his remaining strength, Ehlen hauled himself upward while leaning heavily on the table. Within minutes of doing this, he collapsed in the chair behind him.
Ehlen spoke not a single word, but the death glare he aimed straight in my direction communicated more than his mouth could ever convey.
I shut my eyes, silently receiving my implied punishment.
I knew there would be exhaustion, but I had not meant to make a full-grown Seer feel like that.
Before I could speak of sympathy, Richelle threw in a rather degrading remark.
"Ehlen, don't be such a sore loser."
"Richelle!" Aaron chastised.
"Well, the point of it was to have fun." Fraudir answered nonchalantly.
"I'm sorry." I apologized, bowing my head.
Realizing my change in demeanor, Ehlen's expression immediately softened. I popped my head back up as Ehlen regained his composure. The recovery was rapid, so I suspected he used a spell to combat his fatigue. I did not press the issue, however.
"Looks like I lose. Well, I've got the money to pay, so you guys can order whatever you like."
I bowed respectfully.
"You are most gracious in the light of defeat."
I turned to continue but stopped dead.
I sensed yet another presence.
Unlike the cheeriness that my group had held, this was laced with exhaustion and strain.
It put Ehlen and his previous endeavors to shame, even though one could see nothing outside. It was so strong I feared a person might suddenly come in and collapse right in front of me. I had no idea who or what the perpetrator was, but I inferred that situation was not pleasant. I thought I could sense every stumbling step, every wayward motion, every part of the desperate vanity that was nature's race.
Ehlen did not pay; the person behind him had.
This poor soul tasted more than defeat and dust, and lost more than money. He or she had been deprived of the vital substances that sustained life. All the fluids had been drained out of the body. Food had been burnt in a wildfire. Muscles screamed and tendons tore. Control was a mere afterthought as it slowly slipped like ice. Vision blurred as a body was on its way to ceasing permanently.
While this person might be dying, I certainly wasn't.
"Glory, what's the matter?" Aaron asked.
"I am sensing something." I replied. While I could detect that a person was here, I could see nothing more initially. I thrust my hand in front of me, utilizing my magic to identify the subject in greater detail.
On its silent cue, my emotional power activated.
I steeled myself as I prepared for the irritating and intense manifestation of distress. All I could see was light, but it was nothing like that which I had shown off to my friends. This light blared, raging more than the hottest flame. Like a siren, its intensity could alert to the entire world to its presence. The light only furthered its advance as time passed. It flashed and flickered in my face, until I feared I would go blind. Yet there was a more telltale sign of distress than the light. The emblem was universal; all mortals knew the symbol of the color red. And so this light awakened its invisible prowess, and I was its helpless victim.
I shut my eyes, realizing that the only thing I could do was wait until my power subsided. Intense and uncomfortable as it was, the reaction was short-lived. The vision vanished as quickly as it had come and I absorbed the energy. Unfortunately, this was not a time to rejoice. My power was ephemeral only if the subject had high proximity. It made sense, because if a person was near me, I did not need to use my power.
As my abilities let me, I detected another, familiar, essence.
This realization led me to stand even more rigid.
She had come back.
No, she had followed me from before; I did not detect her mist.
But why was she in so much pain and fright? We did not exert ourselves that much, and even Ehlen had recovered.
The only reason someone would be this exhausted from the trek would be from injury. I had not discovered any of that during my previous encounters with her, and the entire group knew to lay down their arms when she was around.
I rapidly popped open my eyes and stated my answer.
"The unnamed one approaches."
"Ah!" Fraudir yelped, but prepped herself nonetheless.
"Then let us meet her!" Ehlen tensed, but did not draw his weapons.
"Indeed!" Richelle cried, doing the same.
Although I had not informed them, the other two must have somehow known about the apparition, because they were immediately at the ready.
But not even the most prepared could be poised for the sight that greeted us mere moments later.
A form rapidly appeared at the door, showing absolutely no sign of the supernatural.
The shadow grew closer, but it did not overwhelm us. As the tiny girl made herself aware, our hardened countenances did turnabouts to those of complete bewilderment and (in the case of Aaron, Fraudir, and Richelle) pity.
The girl did not walk or run. Rather, a horrible limp afflicted both her legs.
No, a limp was a gross inaccuracy.
She was not even picking up her feet.
The girl heaved herself across the floor in a manner that I had only seen before with the victims of broken bones. It was a wonder she did not trip over own feet.
Her shoes produced a grating sound as they scraped across the area; they were probably little more than tatters. By instinct, I knew the stranger had no broken bones because she was still standing.
Yet even that was barely feasible.
She slouched further down then a couch potato, growing steadily closer to the ground. Her back rebelliously swayed behind her, revealing that her predicament was from lack of strength rather than effort. Her shoulders did not slump, but her head drooped. The girl fought desperately to hold it up, but her fortitude was long gone. We could all hear her labored breathing, but her diaphragm was strangely static. The girl's face had turned into a red waterfall of sweat, but it was as though she didn't even feel its approach.
No living being could be hostile to her now.
I darted forward, attempting to catch the unfortunate one as she began her unwitting descent. It was not enough however, and Rorando luckily fulfilled my role.
The girl glanced upward, her eyes communicating a silent, desperate, plea.
At that moment, I knew what I had to do.
I could refuse her no longer, else this would occur a second time.
T'was my duty, and although I currently did not know how to proceed, I would go wherever it led me.
Unfortunately, not all my comrades thought the same way.
"You, what are you doing here?" Ehlen roared.
The girl could not respond as her head dropped into the crook of Rorando's arm.
"You're not wanted here! Begone!" Rorando growled menacingly and prepared to push the girl away.
"Halt!" I cried, breaking up the unfair fight.
"Glory?"The others responded in surprise.
"Let this girl remain here. I aid her to the best of my abilities."
The others' eyes widened in shock as they digested my sudden change of heart.
"If this girl has taken all the trouble to follow me, then her request is worthy of my time. Furthermore, if I let her go, she will continue to turn out like this. The matter at hand is obviously a grave one, or she would not have endangered herself so."
"Your logic is sound." Aaron nodded respectfully.
Rorando also understood me and he gently carried the formally uninvited guest over to a table and chair. Fraudir carefully pulled the chair out from the table and made sure the girl was seated. Unfortunately, she flopped like a fish, slouching down so low she was in danger of falling out of the chair. In fact, she was almost lying down.
"Such fatigue. She must've come a long way." Aaron commented, a concerned look crossing his face.
"Well, a pillow will help!" Richelle immediately grabbed the item (I wasn't entirely sure where from) and dashed over to the chair.
"Lean forward, all right?" She prompted, holding up the pillow.
The girl obediently leaned forward as Richelle neatly wedged the pillow in between her back and the chair.
"Now, sit back."
The girl did as she was told, but it only made the situation worse. She crumpled in a heap, dangerously close to the edge and a fall that was much too long.
"Oh my God!" Rorando sprinted over, trying to play the savior again.
"It doesn't matter what's behind her. She does not possess the strength to fight her body and hold herself up."
"Well then, we will have to help her!" Rorando immediately threw the pillow aside and hooked two powerful hands around the girl's waist. With that, he yanked her into position and attempted to hold her there.
Unfortunately, his efforts were in vain as the girl slipped out of his arms. He caught her before she hit the ground, but she did not have much room left on the chair. Rorando switched his grip to her arms and tried to hold her that way, but the girl only yelped in fright as she was pulled up into the air.
"Here, let me!" Fraudir immediately sprang into action and grabbed the girl's shoulders. Despite the good intentions, this did nothing as the girl fell away.
"Grab her and pull her by the middle of her back. The problem lies within the spine; holding the area stabilizes it." I explained.
Aaron showed me a questioning look, but did not respond.
"Understood." Richelle followed my command and soothingly walked over to the struggling girl.
"Just relax, sweetie. It's time for a little ride."
With that, Richelle darted around and took hold of the designated area. Fraudir and Rorando released their grips as Richelle readied herself. She took a deep breath, and attempted to pull the girl in place. After several minutes, she achieved the task.
The girl's back now lightly brushed against Richelle's arms, which were equidistant from the target and the chair. The nameless one's eyes darted around, foretelling an unseen fright of squashing her helper.
"It's all right. You can lean back. I have thick cloth on, so it doesn't really hurt." Richelle reassured.
The girl shot one last look before leaning back, squeezing Richelle's arm as she pressed her body against the chair.
"There. Now she should be comfortable."
"Still looks like hell though." Ehlen muttered.
"We will fix that!" Fraudir replied confidently.
Grabbing her medicine bag, she took out a small blue vial. I could see it was filled to the brim with medicine, meant for bringing the body to peak strength. If memory served, the potent drug within was called Solace's Arcanum. Fraudir trotted over to where the overtired girl slumped in the chair.
"Be good and drink this. You will feel much better." The vial was placed at the girl's lips, sparing her from having to do the extra work of grabbing it.
The others watched the procession silently.
Suddenly, panic hit me like an arrow, my face gave away the results. I looked like some tortured beast in agony, and I very well could have been.
If my vast medical knowledge proved true…
I held up my hand.
"Stop! Don't give it to her!"
However, my warning came too late.
Fraudir attempted to pour the liquid down the girl's throat.
She had gotten only a single sip to the destination before a violent noise wracked the child's throat. The girl could still breathe, but she lurched forward uncontrollably. Richelle held on with all her strength to prevent the child from pitching over the chair. Her entire body suffered miniature earthquakes as she fought to keep her trembling self in balance. The girl's hands flailed, but there was nothing to keep her from sinking beneath the internal waves (Fraudir was too surprised to be much help). Her face reddened even more than before, to the point where she looked like a giant tomato. The girl gasped for air, her coughing entering a full crescendo. The child's diaphragm was still dangerously unmoving as the disturbance entered her chest. She heaved and struggled, but nothing would give her relief.
"Grab both her hands and hold them up above her head. Make sure her body is straight." I commanded.
I turned to the unfortunate one.
"Once they've got you, clear your chest."
Despite the situation, the girl gave a weak nod. She had only a fleeting second before Rorando lifted her up by her arms, to the point where she was almost dangling from the chair. That seemed to do the trick, though, as the girl immediately gained control of herself. She let out a deafening cough, her diaphragm finally displaying motion. I knew she had rid herself of her predicament as she cleared her chest. Rorando sat her back down on the chair and Richelle resumed her position.
I nodded approvingly.
I had my suspicions before, but since there were so many other possibilities, it was only a hypothesis.
This incident was solid proof that my theory about the girl's underlying condition was correct.
In the span of a few minutes, I had learned quite a bit about her, and perhaps myself as well.
Unfortunately, the same was not true for my comrades.
"Are you all right?" Richelle asked, her voice betraying her concern.
The girl nodded her head boldly.
"What was that all about?" Fraudir wondered.
"There is much more than meets the eye." I responded.
"Which means what?" Rorando demanded.
Before things could get ugly, Aaron promptly changed the subject.
"Does her throat hurt, Glory?"
No, I don't sense any pain. However, it would be best not to give her medicine in the form of liquids."
"Indeed, we shall try another." Fraudir affirmed.
With that, she produced yet another type of draught.
This one was a chewable gel-filled capsule, made into a flavored gummy to satisfy even children. It was blue and oval shaped. I could never tell what flavor it was, but the mortals called it Miracle Gel. These accoutrements could not heal everything in one go, so Fraudir had a pair in her palm.
Yet once again my heart leaped up in my chest.
The very characteristic that made gels so appealing to younger warriors might just stop this girl.
"Have her swallow it as a pill."
"It's just like a candy. She'll be fine." Fraudir dismissed me with a wave of her hand.
With that, she popped the gel into the girl's mouth.
Unfortunately, my bad vibes became true.
Involuntarily, the gel slid to the back of the girl's throat before she could even chew it. It was inevitable that it would be lodged as she inhaled it within seconds. Her eyes went wide in horror and shock as the event took place.
Her face began to turn dusky blue and her labored breathing made her earlier efforts look like child's play. Within seconds, there was no sound at all, save for the movement of her desperately hitting the chair as she squirmed. This time, coughing could not save her. She lurched forward again, and once again, Richelle struggled to hold on. The girl's hand instinctively grabbed her throat, and the cavalry was called.
"Cough it up!" Rorando shouted.
"She can't!" Fraudir screamed.
"In that case…" Aaron darted over and began delivering powerful slaps upon her back. He did about 20 before he realized it was futile.
"There's only one thing left to do!" Richelle yelled.
With that, she turned the girl around, propping her up against the back of the chair. She placed her hand lower on the abdomen, and performed a Heimlich maneuver that was impressive for both a woman and a human.
Unfortunately, it was to no avail.
"GLORY, DO SOMETHING!" Ehlen screamed.
The poor man was unaware that I already had things under control. Despite healing powers, I seemed to be the only one who knew what truly affected the girl.
I channeled my power again, its golden radiance filling my eyes. As before, a single thought was materialized, but it was almost sinister.
I was crossing the bounds of magical etiquette, and I didn't regret a thing.
The glow spread outward, engulfing me as it always had. The warmth rushed into me as I called upon my inner abilities. The aura grew larger as I stated my task.
Though the process was the same, the end result could not be more different.
Before, I was a goddess who reigned over all.
Previously, I'd achieved impossible feats.
I left even the most knowledgeable scholars agape as I crafted my own rules.
Now, I was simply a concerned soul, albit a well-educated one.
Though I lacked etiquette, I had not crossed the boundaries of man.
One might consider themselves a hero for something like this, but I considered it part of my duties.
Of course, I was saving a life, but so could anyone else in this manner.
This was hardly orthodox, but it was for the best
However, I was not the main target.
The aura disappeared as quickly as it had come; it found its true purpose.
"Be still." I murmured.
I focused myself on the girl, her helplessness tasting as salty and bitter as tears.
It was over in an instant.
The light could not even be seen as it overtook her; I almost pitied the poor thing, but she would not suffer long.
The girl's last movement was a violent vibration of terror and confusion as she shot a questioning glance at me. At that moment, the girl became frozen in time, still functioning, but unable to move. Her eyes filled almost hypnotically with the same light I controlled. She still saw in front of her, but there was nothing she could do. Of course, the procedure would go slowly and tenderly.
Under any other power, the girl would have been consumed. Furthermore, other spells, such as psychic powers, could also help with choking incidents. However, like the physical equivalents, these magical abilities were typically violent and inflicted damage on victims. Furthermore, whatever item that caused the incident was sure to be destroyed. In order for the rest of my plan to work, both victim and aggressor must survive this completely unharmed.
Miracle Gels were expensive, after all.
Luckily, I had no need to panic.
When I froze the girl, her choking incident was also halted. She was still conscious and aware, but no longer in danger. Reportedly, this would not be the case if I removed my spell; without it, she was likely to perish rapidly.
Now was as good a time as ever.
Despite being immobile, I still sensed her fear. It was no use fighting that and the choking.
"It's okay. I'm here to help you. You shouldn't even have to do anything. It will feel a little awkward, but it won't hurt." I murmured soothingly as I approached the girl.
She seemed to understand, for her fear evaporated immediately.
I placed my hand on her throat, quickly identifying where the lump that held the object was located.
"Dislodge." I whispered.
My hand glowed faintly with my power as it once again did its duty.
With that, the girl's throat convulsed, the vibration helping to shake the object free.
Sometimes, my power alone was insufficient; it was times like these that I relied on the natural abilities within us all.
Gently, I took hold with an internal hand, attempting to pull the object free. It was stuck fast, but it fortunately was no match for my powers and her body. After several minutes, it was no longer caught in her windpipe.
Yet there was still the problem of it remaining stuck in her throat.
Being the kind heart I was, I wasn't about to force her through the torture of swallowing it.
My voice and words reflected my desires.
"Release."
I bade the contracted muscles relax, and cautiously remembered to suppress her vomiting reflex.
If the latter occurred, all of my hard work was wasted.
Then, as though it were simply water traveling up a pipe, the gel began its methodical journey back up the girl's throat. Confusion flickered in her eyes at the ticklish sensation, so I immediately dispelled that as well. It took quite a while, but I eventually had the gel right where I wanted it.
Mother Nature did her work again as I triggered the girl's uvula. While the dangling red dangling organ might look hysterical, I understood it was necessary if the gel was to be ejected from her body. It would detect any invaders, and repel them before tragedy struck. Before, it had been overwhelmed, but now, it could return to its duties. I could hear a gagging noise, but unlike before, this was an excellent sign. Due to the numbing magic I had applied earlier, the girl did not struggle. As I expected, her body reacted normally and the gel was forced onto her tongue.
As it floated around in her mouth, I prepared to take my final step.
Gently, I leaned the girl over my stipulated, outstretched hand.
I opened her mouth as wide as it would go and nodded.
Gravity would do the rest.
Sure enough, my predictions were correct as the girl spat the deadly gel into my hand. It had become coated the sticky peach colored film of mucus and liquid. The fluid spread all over my hand in a puddle, threatening to soak through my glove. The gel itself was half dissolved, losing all of its color to the liquid. My comrades beheld looks of absolute horror as they were grossed out by the scene before them. Fraudir, in particular, looked like she was about to faint.
Contrarily, the situation did not worry me.
Mothers dealt with much worse, and I was (indirectly) a mother. Besides, it was simply digestive juices; it wouldn't kill me. Unlike blood, this came off easily.
Not that I would use traditional methods.
My power flared up again and I whispered.
"Normalcy."
With that, the gel regained its blue color as the liquid melted away. It inexplicably grew back to its original size, as though it had never been through the ordeal.
The girl was even better. As my freezing spell wore off, her eyes grew wide with both relief and befuddlement. She no longer reached for her throat; I had made sure that the pain from expelling the gel had evaporated so that she could drink afterward. Her entire body relaxed, as she registered that she was safe. Richelle understood this as well and took her position immediately.
I did not give the others a chance to react; I had to work fast. If the girl's condition for grew any worse, not even conventional medicine would help her. With my free hand, I picked up the second gel (Fraudir had dropped it on the base of the chair) and dropped them in the hands of the original owner. Fraudir shot me a silent question as I headed up to the front bar.
I smiled, but I knew it was too early to rejoice in my recent victory.
If this girl truly was me, then I knew exactly what she would like. I waved my hand, signaling the bartender over to my position.
"Sir, may I please have some orange soda for a friend of mine?"
"Certainly."
The bartender nodded and simply complied with my request.
While he was not bothered by my manner of speech, I knew those around me would not be the same.
Fraudir giggled and Ehlen rolled his eyes. Richelle stared at me blankly and Aaron did the same.
"You must not be very streetwise! Who uses their manners at bars?" Rorando shouted.
"Obviously, I do."
"But why bother?" Ehlen muttered.
"I've found it much easier to get what one wants is one is polite. Besides, manners are most important in unfamiliar places."
"And since when was she your friend?" Ehlen glared accusingly at the girl.
"Since I decided to help her." I replied, almost coldly.
At that moment, the bartender returned with the drink.
"Thank you very much." I responded.
Rapidly, I paid (I wasn't about to let Ehlen get caught up in my seemingly foolish ideals) and cast a reassuring glance.
The giant cup was filled to the brim with fizzy, dark orange, liquid. The cowardly bubbles could be seen through the glass, below the drink. Occasionally, one of the braver ones would rise to the surface, but it would quickly hide itself upon entering my sight. The drink exploded with carbonation, which appalled some. For me, it was like a thick layer of icing on a cake. I knew that once the drink entered my mouth, it would evaporate, leaving a rich, incomparable, sensation. I inhaled, taking in every bit of the tangy, sharp, smell.
I closed my eyes, fondly remembering the first time I had indulged myself in this masterpiece. At the time, I was skeptical, but persuaded by another.
Now, I wouldn't look back.
Mortals called it fancy names like "Sunkist", "Fanta", or "Orange Dream".
I just called it "delicious".
Now, however, the savory treat wouldn't be for me.
I walked back, careful not to spill the delicacy.
I pulled the girl's chair closer to the table (Richelle just moved with me) and presented to her the beverage.
"Here. This is one of my favorite drinks. If I am right, you will like it too."
The girl stared questioningly as the drink was placed in her hands. I still had an extra hold, so I could catch it if need be.
"Go on. Try it."
The girl nodded slowly and brought the drink (with difficulty) to her lips. Like a bird, she sipped methodically. When enough of the drink had tumbled into her mouth, the girl broke out into a grin.
Overtaken by this powerful gesture, I imitated it.
"I guess there's no point in asking."
I motioned to Fraudir, and she placed the ill-fated medicine in my hands.
The others tensed up, ready to strike preemptively.
I remained calm.
"Do you know how to swallow pills with liquids?"
The girl nodded slowly.
"All right, then take these."
The girl's hesitation became evident, but also was the fact that she trusted me.
Obediently, she opened her mouth.
It was clear that she didn't have any hands, so I simply popped the pill in the destination (ignoring the fact that her tongue had turned orange).
Rapidly, she brought her drink up again. It was considerably emptier, so she did not need my assistance.
The girl took huge gulps but I could tell when the pill went down.
Without asking, I repeated the process, and it went as easily as the first.
The medicine took effect almost immediately.
I motioned for her Richelle to let go, and she did so rapidly.
The girl straightened up, as tall as a tree. Her back rested easily against the chair, and the proud grin never left her face. She no longer slouched, her eyes full of vitality. The girl's head had shot up, almost as though she had been startled. The sweat was no longer there, and the girl's face returned to a natural color at last. Her eyes darted around alertly, their frenzied excitement thanking me for my deeds.
"Don't thank me; anyone could've done it."
"I don't think that's true, Glory!" Richelle countered my modesty.
"Yes, you are a sight for sore eyes!" Fraudir added.
"A child of the Goddess you are." Aaron nodded warmly and approvingly.
Suddenly, Ehlen disrupted our jaunty mood.
"Why?"
"Why what?" I asked back.
"You have Her power, so you should know. Why would the Goddess Interaconnta Dietaeyada Sushahniya let such a flawed creature exist?"
"Ehlen, that's a horrible thing to say, and do not use Her name in vain!" Richelle shouted.
A look of utter shock crossed my face, and my body went limp.
Of course, the gesture was misinterpreted.
"See, you even offended Her messenger!" Fraudir howled.
I almost revealed my true identity, but in the nick of time I remembered the risks.
No, it was not Ehlen's words which distressed me so.
It was those that identified me.
My name.
It had probably been eons since I heard it last.
The words slowly scrolled through my head, as if I were stumbling through them for the first time.
In-tera-cohn-ta Deye-te-yah-ahdah Soo-sha-neye-yah.
She who connects all, has the kingdom of the living and the dead, and foresees the eternal future.
It stood for what I was, the clearest representation of how I lived.
Duty, power, wisdom, emotion, prestige, heaven, earth, life, death, mortal, divine, neither, immortality, rebirth.
All of these characteristics expressed in three words.
That was I carried on my shoulders.
But, how could a mere human understand the concept?
It was a rarity for anyone other than a select few to know my name, much less use and remember it.
Even the priesthoods preferred to utilize shorter versions, until the ancient symbol was all but forgotten. Written in the very first language to be spoken by the people, it was at best cumbersome.
How it was passed down, I could not say.
Either this man had an incredible memory, or spent time reading the legends of yore.
I shook my head, snapping myself out of my trance. Now was not the time to daydream.
Aaron, ever the mediator, decided to get us out of this situation.
"I don't think he meant it in a sacrilegious way, Richelle. I believe what he was trying to say was why the Goddess would allow one of her beloved people to suffer so?"
At this point, I finally decided to speak up.
Most people believed in either extreme, and I'd yet to find someone with the same philosophy that I did. Of course, this was at my own risk, because my real identity would be at the doorstep.
However, I couldn't keep this concealed any longer.
People made so many wrong assumptions, it sickened me.
"The Goddess did not allow her to suffer."
Surprise flickered in their faces as the others turned to look me in the eyes. None was more evident than the girl, flabbergasted that someone should support a creature such as herself.
"Of course The Glory Goddess's messenger would say that." Rorando mocked.
"Yes, but that is not why I believe this. The Goddess helps us when we need it, and watches over us always. However, she does not rule over everything, nor does she ascend a golden throne. If she did, we would not know freedom. Ignorance would blind us, and we would be like mindless slaves, wasting away until we left this world."
Aaron nodded wisely.
"Well said. The Goddess has received several offers of nobility, but has turned them all down time after time. Her personality regarding Her position has earned Her another name; the Crownless Queen."
I nodded.
"We are all born flawed; life is simply a matter of working with our deficits."
"Well, can you tell us what is the problem plaguing this girl?" Fraudir pointed at the subject, who was aglow with pure admiration.
Despite never having had anything like hers before, I understood exactly what she was thinking, and I appreciated her respectful attitude.
I nodded slowly.
"I can."
Rorando stepped forward, asking the question that all of us were dying to put forth.
"What is it?"
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