Chapter 7!
And, as always, many thanks to those reading this and my very special thanks to those who have reviewed.
Celestia's Paladin, crazy reader, Bonar, Noel the mermaid, TrippyToastersAndABagOfChips , and Golden Sun Guy 17
Thanks!
Onward!
Electricity shot straight through her spine when she had first heard the news. Felix and Isaac were injured? Oh gods, what had happened? Felix and she had only just recovered, they didn't need to be stuck in Contigo for another few days. The world was dying. They were its only hope. She rushed quickly to retrieve her healing supplies and waited impatiently outside the inn. Piers stood by her side, quiet and patient. He was resting gently against the wood of the inn and closed his eyes serenely. She wished she could say that her heart was as calm as his, but Isaac was hurt… and so was Felix.
Felix. She hoped it wasn't too bad.
Her heart jumped into her throat as she realised her thoughts and almost instantaneously the two forms appeared in view. Mia did her best to control her flushing colour as she hurried to their side with Piers. The image that presented itself was nothing compared to what she had imagined, a few bloody cuts and spattering bruises that was all. So… they had been fighting after all. She tried not to let that get to her as Piers went to Isaac and relieved Felix of the burden, hoisting him onto his shoulder and continuing back toward the inn.
"C'mon." Mia said almost too eagerly to Felix as she offered her shoulder to him.
"I'm okay, Mia." He answered, "Thank you."
She frowned and the healing side of her came through, "You don't know that. Just let me help you." Help him… she had to.
Felix nodded and held his hand toward her. She stared dubiously at it and ducked around it, placing herself underneath his broad shoulder. She felt him glance at her slightly as she put his arm around her shoulder and helped him toward the inn. He was warm. Her heart jumped as he squeezed her shoulder gratefully when they reached the door.
Upstairs Piers was already in the middle of assessing Isaac's condition with Kraden and Jenna at his side. Mia ordered Felix to lie down and he reluctantly obliged. She turned her back on him quickly, hoping she wasn't coming across too cold, and asked Piers of Isaac's condition. He had a broken nose, a cracked rib, several minor cuts, and bruises, nothing serious, not for her anyway.
She turned back to Felix after they removed Isaac's tunic and Piers began work on his ribs. Felix was resting calmly upon his bed. He fixed his brown eyes onto Mia's soft features as she looked down on him. Her hands pressed gently against his chest as the hum of her Psynergy began. He felt eased suddenly. The slight pain that ran through parts of his body was alleviated although his shoulder still burned noticeably.
"Can…can you take off your tunic?" She asked abashedly as her Psynergy softly faded, "Your… uh, your shoulder. I need to see its condition."
Felix obliged to her yet again and unfastened his tunic, revealing the spattered hues that adorned his arm.
Mia gasped slightly, partly from the view of his shoulder and partly from the view of his muscular body. She hadn't properly seen it when she first woke up, but now she was very awake and struggled to keep her embarrassment at bay, "H-how did this happen?" She started, healing his shoulder as she asked.
"We were fighting." Felix answered calmly.
"WHAT!?" Jenna's voice echoed through the room and she stormed to Felix's side, "Why the hell were you doing that!?" She pounded her fist into Felix's shoulder.
He recoiled from the pain, "Thanks." He scowled dryly, "And to answer you, it was to determine which of us was more capable of leadership." He answered still as calm as ever. He winced slightly as his bones began to mesh back together properly, rather than the forced method he had applied.
"But he already said you could lead us!" Jenna retorted, clenching her fist above him.
"Calm down, Jenna. It was my idea." Isaac spoke up, defending Felix. It was partially true after all, it was his fault it had all happened, "Just wait until we're healed, then I'll explain everything."
Jenna frowned and narrowed her eyes. She thought she knew Felix well enough to know when perhaps something might be amiss. She was usually wrong of course, but that didn't stop that buzz in the back of her mind. This time though she didn't pursue the suspicion but resigned to talking softly to the blonde Adept. If Isaac was telling the truth and it was his idea then he was the one who'd be punished later.
Felix closed his eyes and time dragged on with the air filled with Psynergetic hums. He began working through his thoughts, trying to find the best one to focus on. Despite his efforts though, they rested on the healer at his side. Yes, he was fond of her. As fond as he was of Sheba, or Piers. She was a good person, a good friend. She was attractive, the one female of the group actually suitable for him. Jenna was his sister, and Sheba was about five years younger than he was. Why couldn't he shake her from his mind?
'She might actually like you if you did.' Isaac's words replayed in his mind. Why had he said them? Did he know something? Was he just protecting Mia? Was he just trying to get him to be a friend? What did he mean by 'like'? There were too many questions and he knew he couldn't answer them with his thoughts alone. He would need time, assessment, more interaction. He didn't usually favour more interaction, but it didn't bother him in this thought.
Mia's mind was very much on the same questions. She wasn't sure what she thought of Felix, what she felt for him, who he was, anything. All she could say for certain is that she wanted more from him. Why did he provoke these… these feelings in her? Why did his body make her feel so embarrassed? She had seen Isaac, Garet, and Ivan in less clothing and it hadn't bothered her quite as much. They weren't much different in physical tone. There was something different about it that caused it. She forced thoughts of physical nature away and tried to understand his mentality, an admittedly futile task. She had dwelled on these thoughts since Venus Lighthouse, she was still confused.
Ten minutes of thought and work later and she still hadn't come any closer to clearing the cloud of confusion, though Felix was healed now. He had watched her calmly the entire time and she couldn't fight down her blush as his brown eyes scanned her own. She tried to keep her eyes focused on her work but couldn't help but steal the occasional glance at his face.
He stood up and Mia was shocked into still surprise as he hugged her, still lacking a tunic. She swallowed and tried to control her breathing as he pressed her closer to him. She carefully put her arms on his back and returned the hug. What was this? Why was he hugging her?
"Thank you, Mia." He said calmly.
She barely heard him over the embarrassment she felt, "You-you're welcome…" She mumbled.
The room exchanged intrigued glances as the hugged. They all knew it was unlikely for Felix to hug. They quickly averted their eyes and turned back to Isaac as the two broke apart. Felix nodded to all of them, trusting them to heal Isaac and left. Mia frowned again and turned her powers to Isaac.
The air began to cool and stars were beginning to appear in the darkness which slowly crept into the sky. Jenna pouted and singed some grass near her. She had argued and hit her brother for his decisions, despite his reasoning. She felt a strong warm pair of arms wrap around her suddenly and pull her away from the grass before she, inevitably, started a fire, that would force Mia or Piers to rush out to extinguish it, and into a soft hug.
She turned in the room that was allowed to see Isaac's smile in full view. She beamed back and reflected somewhere in the back of her mind, that the eight of them usually hugged one another an awful lot. It was a simple gesture, but one that was always filled with emotion and more than often made things seem better. She pouted and rolled her fingers against his chest, still glowing with Psynergy. Isaac swallowed as silently as he could, hoping that she wouldn't accidentally burn his tunic. She moved her mouth around chewing on nothing as she felt her cheeks burn with anger.
"Jenna." Isaac said softly, holding her closer.
She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, "You're such idiots." She fumed, "There was no point in it."
"I know, Jenna, but you know us." Isaac said simply as he stared out over the silently whispering grass plains surrounding the town.
"What are you talking about!?" She stared up to him, but he continued to look out above her to the wilderness, "You two just beat each other!"
"True," Isaac nodded, "but it was necessary. I suppose I should have seen it coming."
Jenna pulled away from him, confused, "What?" She asked bewildered, "What do you mean it was necessary!?" She yelled, her Psynergy growing closer to erupting.
Isaac knew she would get angry at him as well for trying to defend Felix. She was always so unbelievably stubborn, he had dealt with it most of his life, usually resulting in him or Garet getting severely burned. He came prepared this time though, after all of his travels and the absence he had from Jenna it gave him more time to reflect on how she had acted, and was ready for such situations. His mind had arrived at the conclusion that Jenna was so insistent and stubborn because of her love for her friends and family, even if she didn't show it, and would defend her beliefs about them until the very end. But he couldn't exactly tell her why they were fighting, could he? So, continue with the lie for now, then.
"Think about it, Jenna," He started calmly, "Felix let you think he's dead for almost three years, he shows up with three others who had put Vale at risk, and then did so again when they kidnapped you and Kraden, and he puts you through danger on your quest constantly." Isaac reasoned, "He's just trying to be a good brother, make sure no one hurts you anymore. And if me leading would have been the better option, he would have done so to protect you."
"That's stupid…" She pouted, returning to singing the grass at her feet.
"Is it?" Isaac asked, "I don't think you think that."
"Well I suppose it's kinda…" Jenna drifted off and stared at a small blue flame at the tip of her finger.
"Jenna, you're his only family now and most likely the closest person he has in his life." Isaac smiled, "He loves you more than you realise."
She felt slightly bad, it was true and she knew it. She wouldn't admit it though, but she wouldn't argue. Instead she remained in her silence. She knew Felix loved her, but he didn't often show it. He never talked with her about Vale, never asked her about the past. He was preoccupied all of the time, justifiably as well. That didn't make Jenna feel better about it though, it didn't make her see that Felix loved her. Still, she knew he did.
"Let's go talk to him." Isaac said moving her from the spot.
She nodded slightly, she wasn't sure if she wanted to, but she really couldn't think of anything better to do. Well, Isaac was with her beneath a beautiful night. They were alone. They could find a secluded place and be alone. It would be like the old days in Vale, her and Isaac spending all their time together, simply enjoying being with the other. She let her mind wonder if… no, Isaac wouldn't… would he? Before she could answer she found herself crossing the threshold of the inn.
Felix's thoughts still dwelled on the cerulean haired angel. He knew he liked her there was no denying that now. It was a childish dream though, meant for someone who didn't have the weight of the world and all its lives, a curse, and a darkened soul possessing him. Purity and emotion don't mix with darkness and rationality. He swore not to do anything, but would she? Perhaps the old idiom was correct, perhaps opposites did indeed attract.
"She's cute, isn't she?"
Felix looked around quickly. Piers had joined him, bringing with him two waters, his preferred beverage. Felix took the glass, raising it in thanks, and downing the water. He was thirsty as hell, not to mention he hadn't eaten at all today. He had spent the entire time since he had awoke at Mia's side, ensuring the healer was well. Then he remembered Piers, along with wondering why the Mercury Adept always purchased waters since he could create the substance at will.
"Who's cute?" He questioned, dubious. He didn't much care for when Piers was in these moods. He had tried to find him several female companions, ranging from pirates, native warriors, a girl who had mistaken him for Isaac, and, on one occasion, a village elder after he had slayed a serpent.
Piers nodded over to a table where Garet and Mia were laughing, smirking wide. Felix took a quick glance over to them He let his eyes wander over Mia's form. She definitely was an attractive young woman, but so what? He could say that about the waitress who was carrying a tray of drinks to another table in the room. There were plenty of attractive women in the world, what did it matter if Mia was 'cute'?
"She's attractive, yes." He replied calmly, careful not to answer too quickly.
Piers smiled back, "I think she likes you."
"Stop it, Piers." Felix warned, in no mood for yet another of these conversations. The several he had always ended the same way: them leaving whatever settlement they were at so Piers couldn't continue this. That wouldn't exactly work this time.
"It's merely an observation." The way he spoke belied that, and Felix was not entertained at all by it, "She could be good for you."
"It doesn't matter, Piers. You know that. Regardless of what you think, I won't. I'm not good for anyone, and I won't last." Felix said concisely, still firmly believing in the death the gods wished upon him. He may be trying to bring their powers back to the world, but that did not mean they supported his quest. It was their very powers being abused that led to destruction so long ago, they did not wish to see their gifts used as such again. He was surprised his own patron still answered his call for Psynergy when he needed it.
Piers leaned in a little at that, staring Felix straight in the eye, "I think that you are. And you say that you won't last. Well, take it from me that if anyone is going to last through this, it will be you, aki'me." (friend)
Felix could feel his smirk in spite of himself. Piers was funny in a way sometimes. His ridiculous notions were somewhat childish for a man who must have seen his two or three hundredth year. It was sometimes odd to think he was friends with someone who could be that old. Yet, he had sensed it in the Lemurian when they first met. Even if the Lemurian tried to insist he was still a child. His ideas were entertaining at times… when they didn't annoy him, and that was the more likely outcome.
"Same as always." Garet grinned, gesturing to Felix's mix of a small smirk and unimpressed visage, as he approached. He sighed through a smile as he took a seat at the table, "Mia's heading up to bed."
"Is she okay?" Felix asked quickly, noticing the healer, from the corner of his eye, accelerating up the stairs rather swiftly.
"Yeah, I'm sure she's fine. Just tired I'd say, it's been a rough few days." Garet answered, stroking a chin in some need of a shave, "I mean, first there was Jupiter Lighthouse, she had to try and save me from my own idiocy after I fell, we had to go through the whole talk after that day, the next she got hurt, then she was having nightmares, then she recovered and had to try and save your ass. Woke up late today, hasn't really eaten much, and then had to save your ass again, along with Isaac's. So, I think she's earned some rest. Where's everyone else?"
Felix thought back on all those details. The young healer had gone through an awful lot in the space of a few days, all of the latter being because of him. He should probably apologise to her for it all later. It would be the right thing to do after all.
"Sheba and Ivan are doing their usual disappearing act." Piers explained, "To my knowledge Isaac and Jenna are discussing the events of earlier."
Garet nodded, though his mind was elsewhere, "So, Felix, plans for tomorrow?"
"We get up. Leave. Sail." Felix answered readily.
"Not gonna be as easy as that though, is it?"
"No."
"Gonna be very complicated and exploration heavy?"
"Yes."
"Awesome."
Piers began laughing at the quick and simple exchange between the two of them. Turning quizzically, the two Valean men stared at him, "Were you two always like this?"
"More or less." Felix shrugged.
"Seems like it." Garet smirked in return.
Piers laughed harder. It was odd to see the Lemurian laugh very often. Even though it was only a small chuckle at the minute, it was still rather rare, unless he was in one of his moods. Felix and Garet shrugged to each other, not seeing what was amusing with how they spoke to each other. Chalking it up to the Lemurian still being rather odd to them in general, they disregarded it.
"How is everyone?" Felix asked, directing his attention to Garet, ignoring the humoured breaths of Piers.
"Better now that you and Mia are alright. We were all pretty tense for a while. I was worried as hell, Isaac was trying to keep everyone going, Piers was watching over you, Sheba broke down for a while, but it was all good, Ivan was fine, Jenna was the worst. You should probably have a brother talk with her when you can." Garet replied, "We're all in fairly good spirits now though, except Mia, she seems really distracted by something."
Piers leaned in quickly, his laughter quickly dissipating, "She did seem to be acting oddly after she healed you earlier. I think she's worried that this might be a regular thing."
"She's not a fan of the whole violence thing. It could just be the stress of the past few days, but maybe you should talk to her anyway, assure her it'll be easier for a while." Noticing Felix making to speak, Garet curtailed him, "I know it won't. There's bound to be sometimes when everything's quiet though. Times for fun, relaxation, laughter and flattery."
"You'll be rather fond of those times, won't you, Garet? Provided you spend them with Mia." Piers smirked, nudging the Valean in the arm with his elbow, "So, when did you fall for her?"
"Whoa!" Garet raised his hand quickly, "Shut up, man!"
"He likes Mia." Piers whispered to Felix, although audible enough for anyone within five feet of him to hear.
"Hey, be quiet!" Garet cut across, "I don't need this as public knowledge thanks. It's difficult enough."
"Mia, huh?" Felix intoned, "I think she'd be good for you. Opposites do attract after all, and she is your complete opposite."
"And yours." Piers winked, nudging Felix just as he had Garet.
Felix sighed. As did Garet. Piers chuckled to himself. Then Garet's face changed curiously and he started waving his finger at something behind Felix. It took Felix a moment to decipher exactly what the Mars Adept was trying to put across.
He turned in his seat, sighing mentally as Isaac and Jenna approached. Isaac was smiling while Jenna frowned. They sat beside him. Isaac offered his greetings to them and they sat in silence watching Jenna. Jenna showed her embarrassment clearly through her state. Her cheeks were scarlet as she stared at her swinging feet. She fiddled with the lining around her clothes and shuffled nervously on the seat. A small noise escaped her.
"What?" Garet asked for a clearer sound.
A slightly louder, yet still incomprehensible, noise escaped again. This time they simply waited silently with their eyes fixed on her. Felix would have spoken, if he had not learned to not interrupt even her thoughts. It would be best to just let her say it and then respond. After several moments of continued silence she managed to speak properly.
"I overreacted… sorry." She mumbled, "When you two fought. I'm just worried that's all. I'm sorry."
Felix took her hand in both of his, "I understand, Jenna. It's okay." He said softly.
She pulled her brother into a rib-cracking hug, squeezing him closer and closer. Felix, ever calm, did not allow his discomfort to show rather he returned the hug tenderly. Then, when the hug was done, Felix nodded to Isaac and Jenna as they went back outside to stargaze. It was then that Garet and piers reminded that he should put Mia's fears at rest, and in a more understanding way than he usually spoke.
Curled up on her bed, Mia sat silent. Her Djinni sat at its end. Her eyes glistened with unshed tears. She didn't know what exactly she was crying for. It might have been the stress of the past few days. It might have been fear for the remainder of the quest. It might have been worry for Isaac and Felix. It might just have been Felix. She couldn't tell. She was just glad that the small tears remained in the corner of her eyes, where they could be easily blinked away.
"Fizz… w-what's wrong with me?" She whispered sadly, hoping that her most trusted companion might have some insight for her. He did live within her mind after all.
"Miss Mia, what is it that bothers you?" The Djinn responded, tilting to the side slightly.
Mia stared blankly at herself in the mirror on the opposite wall. She had changed from her blue-white robes into her white nightgown. She had planned on going to bed, but found it impossible to keep her eyes closed. Her mind refused to let her sleep. She just kept… thinking. Worst of all she just kept thinking about Felix. He was okay for now, she shouldn't worry. She still had plenty of time to save him from his curse… she shouldn't be worrying.
"Is it Sir Felix?" Mia turned her gaze away from her Djinni and stared into nothingness, "What is it about him that disturbs you so?"
"I don't know." She lied to him and herself.
"Is it a fondness?"
Why couldn't he just shut up? "N-no! I don't know…" She said quietly cautious.
"Miss Mia, you know you're not a skilled liar."
She pouted and wiped a lone tear away, "I don't like him, Fizz. I just want to help. He just fought someone who used to be one of his best friends. He's so alone in the world. I just need to let him know that someone, that I, care. Besides, my duties as healer of Imil forbid liking anyone outside of my clan."
"Duty and nature have always been conflicting forces, Miss Mia, you can't stop it."
As if on cue from his words there was a sharp knock on the door, and a voice came from the other side, "Mia…" The chocolate eyed Venus Adept called out softly, "May I come in?"
Mia felt her insides constrict at the sound of the Venus Adept. Fizz returned to her as though solidifying the point. Mia nodded to herself, wiped whatever tears she could away, walked over to the door and opened it, "Hi, Felix," She said softly, a slight smile on her lips, "come on in."
She walked back over to her bed and gestured for him to sit beside her. He went to the bedside and sat down. She awkwardly smoothed out her gown and tried to discreetly wipe away the last small tears in her eyes. Felix sat quietly, waiting for Mia to look back at him. She slowly kicked her legs back and forth and drew shapes in the sheets of her bed with her finger. Felix, with his usual patience, watched her, waiting for her to be ready. She stretched her legs out and then pulled them close to her chest, wrapping her arms around them tightly. She rested her head on her knees and turned to look up at Felix.
"Mia, I'm sorry if I upset you earlier." He said kindly.
Her eyes widened slightly at his statement, "Wh-what do you mean?" She shook her head in confusion.
"Piers told me you were acting differently after I left earlier. If I did something to offend y-" He stopped suddenly, scrutinising her. She tried to look back and seem calm, not an easy task with the man's piercing stare, "You've been crying."
She frowned. He had noticed her tears. She looked longingly into his eyes and saw sadness behind their shield of brown. It wasn't strange to see sadness behind that shield, but she didn't want to think that this time she was the cause, he had enough to deal with without her worrying him even more, "I know, Felix, but it's just, well…I found it hard to believe you'd hurt a friend like that. So, I worry for you." She said quietly.
"There's more." Felix stated wisely.
He was too smart for his own good. Had he left it at that, perhaps Mia wouldn't be forced into an inner turmoil. Perhaps things could have been so much easier. But he had to know he wasn't alone, that she cared. Before her mind had time to catch up with her actions she had tackled him down beside her and her lips met his. It was so tender and gentle following the rough method of acquisition. Felix did nothing so shocked that his entire system seemed to fail.
Jenna and Isaac smiled to each other as they strolled through the quiet streets of Contigo. It was a relatively dark night, a lantern here and there brightened their path. Though, they didn't care where they walked, or how far. Their eyes were turned upward staring at the billions of sparkling lights in the dark screen of the night. Despite the time of year, there wasn't a single cloud in the sky, all of them had seemed to be pulled to the Jupiter Beacon and swirled around it, so the moon and the stars were allowed to dominate the darkness.
Isaac smiled wider as he stared up at them, searching for one in particular. Mia, shortly after Venus Lighthouse, had told him a belief she held, one about the stars. To her, the stars were souls, always watching over whoever they had left and the many ancestors who would follow. Isaac didn't necessarily believe this, Vale thought that all souls joined the gods in the heavens in an eternal paradise. Mia had the same belief, somewhat, but to her, stars weren't just stars. After Isaac had heard this belief, he found himself on the deck of Babi's ship, staring up at the night.
He had searched all night for a star to represent his father, one for Felix, and one for Sheba. He had searched for Jenna and Kraden too, even if he refused to believe they died. He found all the stars that he began to associate with them, it gave him a feeling of peace. Now he knew Felix, Jenna, Sheba, and Kraden weren't dead of course, but there was still that one he had for his father. He searched every night to find it, his father. And he always whispered his love for his father when he found it.
"What did you say, Isaac?" Jenna asked, playfully nudging him in the ribs.
Isaac snapped to attention. A blush came along as he imagined himself telling Jenna that he had just said 'I love you'. He wasn't sure how that might end, "Nothing. Just… talking to dad."
Jenna frowned a little at that. Isaac had lost his dad the same day she lost her family… he had lost him in the exact same way. Felix was the only one to survive. She counted her luck for that at least. Still… she would've loved if everyone could be okay. But what kind of world would it be if it was filled with perfection? Perfect worlds never existed, "Sorry."
"It's fine, you know that." Isaac said, but a silence followed, "Umm… did Mia tell you about the stars yet?"
Jenna blinked and looked up, "Hmm? Kraden has, but I haven't really talked to Mia that much. Why?"
Isaac looked back up at the stars, indicating Jenna should do the same, "They're beautiful. Mia believes each star is a soul, an image in the sky after you're gone. That's what I meant by dad. I was talking to one of the stars."
Jenna smiled to herself at that. the idea was a little childish… but she couldn't resist the allure of it. She had always been fascinated by the stars, and after the incident she had spent entire nights staring at them, trying to find answers or peace in them. It almost seemed possible, "That's really sweet. Which star were you talking to?" She asked, moving her eyes over the numerous glittering lights.
Isaac raised his hand, pointing to a star to the north-east, somewhere above Vale, "That one." He smiled, knowing it pointless to indicate it, it would be impossible for her to tell exactly which one, "It's close to being above Vale."
Jenna smiled, hooking her arm around Isaac's, "Do you think my parents are near it?" She asked, wanting to believe that she could at least see something to represent her parents. They had empty graves in Vale, but she never visited them. They weren't there, and she hated the idea of the gravestones for them. She always went to their destroyed home though, always remembering them there, as she stared upward. To think, if she could see them in something so beautiful, it would be so much easier.
Isaac nodded, "They could be. I can't find them for you."
Jenna tilted her head, squinting at the area Isaac had indicated as above Vale, "How did you know which one was your father?"
"I never did really." Isaac shrugged, "I could be completely wrong. But… I dunno… I just felt kind of right looking at it. Could be my grandparents or something. But that doesn't matter to me, I still like looking up at it."
Jenna stared for a while. She couldn't really decide, amongst the hundreds that were in the small area, which would be her parents. She found her eyes always drifting back to two stars in particular, very close together. She didn't feel anything from them in a sense, but she liked this idea, so those two were what she decided would represent her parents memory. Then, just as Isaac had, she whispered her love to her parents, assuring them she and Felix were okay.
"It's a nice idea, isn't it?" Isaac intoned, "Makes death seem… easier."
"Beautiful, in a way." Jenna responded, smiling.
The two of them continued to stare at the stars, looking at each other every now and then. Eventually the stargazing ceased, and the two began talking. And suddenly they weren't strolling through a Contigan night, but a Valean one. Their smiles grew broader and their conversations followed them back to Vale. Together they spent the night reliving their youth, as they had lost so much of it because of this quest.
So, tonight, they relived all they lost. They did all they could to fit two years of lost time into a few hours in the brightest night they had together.
Mia kept her eyes closed, purely because she was so afraid to open them now and see his face. Gods, what was she doing!? She felt like crying, she was so stupid! How in the heavens was this ever a good idea? What was wrong with her? Couldn't she just have explained everything, told him about the conflict that was raging within her? Surely he would understand. He seemed to understand everything.
Felix's mind tried desperately to restart itself. Here they were, Mia lying mostly on top of him, their lips pressed together gently. What, in all of Weyard, was this? Some cruel joke by some higher form, reminding him he could never have happiness such as this? Eventually, sense returned to him, knowing what would arise should anyone stumble upon them. He placed his hand softly on her shoulder and pushed her away gently. He was ultimately shocked and confused, but his face allowed nothing, not even his eyes. He lay on the bed, doing nothing, simply staring up at the ceiling. That had been nice.
"Mia?" He asked cautiously, the ability to speak having returned, his eyes not moving from the ceiling.
"I… I'm sorry… I…I…" She stammered, so horribly embarrassed. Mercury, she was a fool. What was wrong with her!? She had never even kissed a boy before, now she decided that her first would be that one? With Felix!?
Felix's eyes widened ever so slightly in wonder and he raised his head to look at her, "Mia?" He repeated.
She looked away quickly as a flushing colour burned in her cheeks, "S-sorry," She mumbled, "…but, I… I'm worried about you."
Felix sighed, almost too audibly, "I see." He knew all too well that there was so much more, but knew it best not to evoke unnecessary emotion.
Mia stayed silent as she waited for him to continue. Felix, though, said nothing. His perfect sense of judgement, always clear of the intrusion of emotion was now blotted by the very same. He couldn't deny that he liked Mia to some degree. Hell, he had admitted so much to her for whatever insane reason. Now, Mia had kissed him. Someone like her had kissed someone like him. What was happening to the world he knew? This situation was all his fault… wasn't it?
Mia continuously stared and avoided staring at his piercing eyes. She couldn't face his gaze of confusion and shock, he thought he wasn't showing it, but she certainly saw it. She just wished that maybe this situation would end, that this horrible silence would just break. She hated the current moment, anything would be better than this. She wished it would just be okay, that somehow Felix would understand and this wouldn't be a problem. She just wished everything wasn't so silent.
Felix pulled himself back up from his prone position and to his previous seat at the edge, "Mia…" He whispered gently.
Mia missed the silence.
"I… I'm…"
The fact that he was stuttering didn't help her current feelings of regret.
"I'm flattered…" He managed, "Really. But, you know this won't work. I can't let it."
"Felix…" Mia started tentatively.
"I'm sorry… Mia, this is my fault." Felix stated, "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to do this to you."
Mia could feel tears forming in her eyes, he was apologising so much for what she had done, "Felix…"
Felix stood up and moved to the door, "I'm sorry, Mia."
Mia watched him leave. Tears returned to her eyes, slowly breaking away and rolling along her cheeks. The fact that he blamed himself made her feel so horribly guilty. It wasn't his fault, it was hers. He shouldn't be blaming himself. She shouldn't have caused him to do everything. She was supposed to be helping him, freeing him of his curse. Instead she just seemed to be making everything worse for him. Mia grabbed her pillow, falling into her bed, letting her tears flow silently.
Felix had gone straight to bed. His thoughts were oddly muddled, more than they had been in years. He stared up at the ceiling in the increasing darkness. He felt truly sorry for Mia it was his fault that her emotions had gotten the better of her. His mind had two opposing arguments: to return and comfort her and risk provoking her emotions again or laying still and hoping one of the others would eventually comfort her. He had resigned to allowing his thoughts to drift past as he focused on counting by seconds.
The loud creaking of the door in the darkness entered his ears, followed by the playful voice of Sheba, "Hello? Felix?"
"I'm here." He answered calmly.
She ignited a lantern, burning through the darkness with its fire and went to his side. Felix closed his eyes to prevent his eyes from burning as well. He heard the girl bound over to her and nestle on the bedside.
"Hi, how you-What's wrong?" She inquired.
"Can you go check on Mia?" He asked. His eyes remained closed.
"What happened?"
Felix ignored the question and continued, "Tell her I know why she's afraid. I will hurt her like he did."
"What are you talking about!?" She blurted out in her confusion.
"Go." He ordered.
Sheba frowned down at the Venus Adept. He was more disturbed than usual. The contemplation of mind-reading entered, but Felix would know to keep his thoughts in check when they were alone and he was in a sour mood. She followed his order and quickly left.
"Take care of her." He said as she left the room.
His mind drifted into philosophy and he did his best to focus on it. It wasn't difficult really his philosophical nature usually delved into current problems and helped solve them. It was the creative part of his rationality. Did possessed souls deserve love? Should they be allowed any affection? Angels embodied in graceful bodies, what was their purpose? To bring divine justice or help those who should be destroyed? Mia was too gentle, loving, and graceful, to cause pain to any degree in any form to anyone. She spread light and love as she walked.
He would have very much liked to return her kiss, but he had sworn that he wouldn't. Perhaps if she knew more about him she would realise how foolish the thought was. He knew he was enamoured with her, just as Garet was. Garet… If he knew what had happened would he forgive him? Love is as cruel as kind. Friends turn on one another, hearts shatter, lives break, emotions never heal, and the sadness that love sometimes brought was a depressing thing. Was the joy of love worth this possible sadness? It couldn't be prevented. Someone always experiences it when love is forged. He felt sorry for Garet.
Love? Why was the thought so pronounced in his head? He forced it away, dismissing it as the easiest way of describing the situation. But that niggling in the back of his thoughts remained.
Love is foolish in times of war. Discard it, but remember where for when the war is won.
Menardi's silky voice came into the mind's ears. It was an interesting quote. The Proxian had never showed any signs of deeper affection, she certainly had discarded whatever love she had. But that meant she once had it.
His mind was keen on preventing sleep once more. It was late, he was exhausted and hungry. The growl of his stomach echoed in the silently still room, the only movement was the barely flickering shadows cast by the lantern at the door. He wanted to sleep, to dream perhaps.
Sleep was easily achieved through death. Was it peaceful though? Did it dream?
Piers had caught sight of Sheba's accelerating form as he planned on retiring for the night. Normally he wouldn't have followed the usually active Adept, but there was something else in her speed. He was of course correct and it resulted in cradling the gentle healer in his arms as Sheba probed delicately for any ways to help without resorting to her Psynergy.
"Mia… I don't know what else to ask. If you can't answer me we can't help."
Mia knew this, but still couldn't bring herself to do anything but rock in Piers' warm, muscled arms. She wanted to explain, but what would the others think of her? She had known Felix three days, two of which she was mostly unconscious. How could she just tell them she kissed Felix and completely ruined a promising friendship? Ruined her chances to save him from his dark fate?
"Is it okay if I read your mind?" Sheba had never before asked this question and never thought she ever would. At that moment, though, it seemed the only question to ask.
"Don't, Sheba." Piers said softly, "Allow her time to collect her thoughts."
""Thank you, Piers."" She couldn't voice her thought but somehow felt he knew she was thankful.
Of course, Piers knew more than this. He knew, or at the very least speculated with accuracy, what had caused this sadness in Mia. It was him, after all, who had sent Felix to talk with her. It was only common sense to arrive at the conclusion that something had happened between them, nothing cruel or malicious, but something, a fear or a mistake perhaps. He would have left to talk with Felix if it wasn't for the healer in his arms and the knowledge that Felix would most likely withhold information as always. He never let anything show. He hadn't even told Isaac and Jenna of the shocking secret he had revealed in confidence to Piers.
"What…" Mia's weak voice came, "what do you think happens to friends over time?"
Sheba looked questioningly at Mia, unsure of how to answer. She was asking herself the exact same question about Ivan. What were they to each other? She wanted to say more than friends… but he seemed caught at the line between the two. So Sheba had no answer, thankfully Piers did.
"It is something that grows over time… A true aki'tri'e. (friendship)" He explained, "A feeling in the heart that becomes stronger over time… The passion of friendship blossoms into a righteous power, and through it, you will know which way to go."
Mia looked up as Piers smiled down warmly to her. She returned it, although a much weaker one, through some faint tear streaks. It wasn't the answer she had hoped for, but it was the complete truth. The eight of them were living proof. As they travelled and grew closer their powers developed and they fought together bringing them closer still. How did that apply to her feelings though? How did that tell her which way to go?
"Why do you wish to know?" Piers inquired.
""I want to know what the real difference between friendship and feelings are."" She thought, "I… I dunno…" She mumbled unable to voice her thought.
"Sheba?" Piers said quickly, "Would you mind?" He nodded toward the door.
"What?" She asked, slightly affronted.
"Could you watch the door and make sure no one comes in?" He said softly.
She pouted but nodded and retreated from the room. She didn't exactly like being told to leave. Then again, she did know that Piers would be the best hope for Mia at the minute. She usually turned to him when things became too much at time. And it had been quite a lot for Mia recently, Piers could help.
Piers released Mia from his arms and crouched down on front of her. His eyes were perfectly level with hers and allowed nothing more than seriousness, "What happened, Mia?" He asked forcefully, but perfectly gentle, "Please, tell me." Mia tried to look away but Piers held his hand under her chin and forced her, perhaps coming across more intense than he had meant to, to look into his eyes, "Mia, I know it was Felix. Garet and I were the one who told him to come and talk to you." He explained, "We were worried for you. After you healed him you seemed distant. Please, tell me what happened between you."
"Piers…" She whispered, "I… I…"
"Mia." He said softly.
She closed her eyes. Her tears squeezed through, "I think you were right."
Piers gazed quizzically at the Mercury healer, unsure of exactly what she meant.
"I… I tried… tried to… I kissed Felix." Mia stammered out.
Piers was admittedly surprised and was glad her eyes were closed as it gave him time to hide it. All jokes aside, he had never actually thought that Mia may like Felix. He knew a caring, mature response was best, "Why did you feel you had to hide this from us?"
She shook her head.
"Mia, no one will insult you or think you're foolish when they know how much it hurts you." Piers smiled, "We all take care of each other."
She smiled at his words and opened her brilliantly blue eyes, "Thank you, Piers."
"Anytime." His smile grew wider, "Why don't you tell me everything that happened?"
Mia nodded. She took a deep breath and a minute or two to prepare herself and set all the information in her own mind. Then she told Piers everything she had felt and thought. Her confusion after Venus Lighthouse, her fear of Felix, and the night they had spent together in every detail, his curse, and her feelings of sorrow and pity for him, her admiration, and her confused feelings of fondness. She told him everything that had transpired only five minutes ago.
Piers listened passively as she let out all of her feelings, although his eyes showed an intense care. He felt great sympathy for Mia her natural emotion was tearing at her duties to her clan and confusing her beyond belief. He, if no one else, understood how duty and nature conflicted. The Lemurian court usually proved this.
"…and then he got Sheba to tell me that…." She cried quietly.
Piers smiled warmly and pulled her close, he knew she had more to say but that at the moment it was difficult. She cried gladly as his warmth ran over her. He was so understanding and caring. He seemed to know exactly how to deal with the situation.
"What did he tell Sheba?" He asked softly.
"That… that he…" She paused, retching at the name his message had invoked, "would only hurt me like Alex did."
Piers nodded. He didn't know Alex but the one time he met him was enough to build an assessment of him, combined with Felix's, Jenna's and Sheba's opinions: a self-centred, arrogant, uncaring, self-serving, walking problem. He didn't know what he had done to Mia or what his relation to her was, but he was wise enough not to ask.
"I think you should talk to Felix." Piers said suddenly. Her eyes shot up from the warmth he offered, but he smiled on, "Try to talk about everything. Clearly you haven't told him all you've told me, I think if the two of you understand the situation better it will be easier. Moreover, I feel it best if you seek him out. He'll be on your terms then. He won't be as prepared."
She nodded, she didn't want to talk or be around Felix for some time, but Piers was right and there was nothing she could do about that.
"Try and get some sleep. I think things will be clearer in the morning." He said gently. She obliged and pulled herself into her bed. Piers wrapped the covers around her and wiped away her tears with a small handkerchief, "I'll hold him until you're ready." He winked. "Rest now to rise again. The next morning will show you a better day." He said through a kind smile.
"Thank you, Piers." She returned the smile as she closed her eyes, "Good night."
Piers smiled, wiping away whatever remnants of tears remained, and left.
"Well?" Sheba demanded as Piers gently closed the door behind him.
"Shhh, she's sleeping." He answered softly.
"What about-"
"I'm not particularly sure, she will reveal it soon enough."
"I've been out here for ages!" She whined, "And you didn't get anything?"
"I recommend you get some shut-eye as well, Sheba. It is what I hope to do. Vina nai'stri'ni." (Good night)
Sheba pouted childishly and obliged to quietly sneaking into her room, after enough time had passed and she could be sure Mia was asleep, and followed Piers' advice. Jenna followed shortly behind, with Isaac on her heels, giggling happily.
GASP! Stuff happened! And more stuff WILL happen!
SO, who actually saw the kiss coming? C'mon, be honest.
Oh, and all the other stuff that happened in the chapter. Jenna and Isaac's section was nice, right? And what about the table with Felix, Garet and Piers where more stuff is said?
Well... please review! I'd really love more you know, that's kind of the point. Authors need feedback to know if what they're doing is good or not, and if people actually like the story. Well... you get the point.
Oh, and I hope you all had a good Holiday and New Year! I know I did, here's to another great year! (Raises drink in a toast, downs it)
Your friend and writer,
Droory