A/N: As usual I apologize for my tardiness in updating this story. But at least here it is! I'm very happy to know that you like it. The only way I know is thanks to the people who have added it to their favorites and also to the ones that have left a review. I really appreciate it. All the people who like this fic will be pleased to know that this chapter is quite long, so I'll be splitting it up in two chapters. It's one of the longest chapters I've written so far, and not only for this one but all my stories.
As always, thanks to leebot-sensei for betaing this chapter since I know it wasn't easy due to its length.
Remember that this story uses elements of Mai Hime, Mai Otome and also Escaflowne. You will notice that there are many elements from Escaflowne used in this whole chapter.
Also, on another important note; I recommend you to search for the song 'SORA' from the Escaflowne Movie (if you have not done it previously) since I use it in this chapter as well. I have one version in my profile, so I'll post a link for another version. It would be good to listen to it during the part that is marked with a (1.), so you'll have a better picture of that moment and of Natsuki's singing. That would be all.
I hope you like it.
Enjoy and don't forget to review!
Leebot: I hope everyone enjoys seeing more of the new characters here. To me, Midori actually reminds me a lot of her Destiny incarnation, which is quite coincidental as Shezaei has never read that. In any case, enjoy!
Disclaimer: Everything is property of their respective authors, mostly Sunrise. Yes, Sunrise also did Escaflowne. – yay! –
Into the Another World - Chapter 8 Part I
The soft breeze was blowing freshly that day, the sun was shining brightly in the sky, and there were some clouds in the horizon, making the day more wonderful. Shizuru was enjoying it fully, and with Natsuki by her side it couldn't be more perfect. They were resting seated on the grass near the road. The caravan of the Abaharaki had stopped for a moment to take a rest and to finish some repairs that were still undone. Shizuru had learned many more things about Earl, such as the Abaharaki and, most important of all, Natsuki, and said girl was the one to teach her most of it.
Shizuru had learned some terms she had heard around while being alone with Natsuki on Earl before they went back to Earth; she was curious about them but she always put it aside and soon forgot about them. That was, until now when the members of the Abaharaki used them frequently. She had also heard Natsuki use them too. For example, when she met the members of the caravan, she had heard the word 'Miet'; after asking Natsuki she came to realize that it was a unit of time and that it was equivalent to thirty Earth seconds; or that a 'Costa' was equivalent to almost one Earth meter. Shizuru made sure to keep this information stored in her brain as she might need it in the future, since she would be staying now in Earl after all.
One of the things that surprised her the most was another one of Natsuki's Otome abilities: she had fast healing. In fact she had discovered this by accident. They were in their room laying on the bed at night, ready to go to sleep; Shizuru had borrowed some clothes from Ahn since she didn't have a change of clothes, while Natsuki simply wore her usual tank top. Shizuru was embracing Natsuki, as Natsuki had her hands over Shizuru's waist. They were having a small talk when Shizuru's gaze fell on Natsuki's shoulder and she was surprised to not see any bruise or scar in there. She had forgotten about it when they were on Earth; she was so busy enjoying life with Natsuki that she completely forgot that her angel had been previously injured; but now no mark of it was there, so she asked Natsuki about it. Natsuki told her that it was another ability inherited from her mother; she didn't know all the details but Otome had fast healing abilities, and she had also told Shizuru that when she was a child she never got really sick, compared to other children her age.
At this revelation, Shizuru remembered something Natsuki said when they were at the bottom of the cliff, just after she had been injured. Natsuki told her not to worry about the injury. Those weren't simple words of assurance; they were words that hold a hidden meaning on them. Natsuki knew that the injury would heal in no time. Most likely when they were in Earth, Natsuki's wound had healed already and she didn't notice. Shizuru made sure to keep this information to herself, since she knew that it was related to Natsuki's Otome heritage and said girl didn't want to reveal any of this to the Abaharaki yet.
Shizuru smiled and, closing her eyes, she rested her head on Natsuki's shoulder. Natsuki closed her eyes too and out of the blue she began to sing a song that went something like. (1.)
- "Win dain a lotica, En val tu ri, Si lo ta…Fin dein a loluca, En dragu a sei lain, Vi fa-ru les shutai am En riga-lint…Win chent a lotica, En val turi, Si lo ta…Fin dein a loluca, Si katigura neuver, Floreria for chesti, Si entina…"
Shizuru opened her eyes slightly due to the melody; she had heard this tune before. Of course! It had been back on Earth at her dorm when she was with Natsuki and also when she was looking for Natsuki that day when they returned to Earl. It was the same song. She found it absolutely beautiful now that she had heard it better and she thought that the tone and aura of it fit her angel perfectly. She was quite intrigued by it so she asked.
- "Natsuki…"
- "Mmhh?"
- "Could you tell me about this song? I've heard you sing it back in Earth too, so it must be special to you."
- "Well, yes it is. It's a lullaby that my mother used to sing to me when I was a child. She always sang it to me saying that it was special. It always made me feel better whenever I listened to it."
- "And it's also an ancient lullaby from the legendary Garderobe. I'm delighted to know that you know it, not many people had such knowledge of it." – interrupted Midori coming near to them.
Natsuki and Shizuru panicked at what the leader of the Abaharaki had said. Had she discovered Natsuki's secret? Before they could say anything to try to change the subject or avoid any kind of interrogation, Midori spoke first.
- "Well, after all you are the ruler of Aries and are tutored in ancient history, perhaps more than others. Besides, Aries had always had some kind of connection with Garderobe, even before the former Queen ruled." – this piece of information surprised not only Shizuru but also Natsuki, who seemed to be oblivious to that fact, however Midori didn't pay any attention to their surprised faces and continued saying – "I'm happy to know that there's someone else who has a passion in history just as I do! We'll get along very well your highness! I can feel it! Hahaha!" – said Midori slapping Natsuki's back affectionately.
- "Ara, how does Midori-san know about that melody?"
- "I'm a researcher so I'm interested in many things, Garderobe being just one of them." – said Midori proudly. – "My knowledge and intellect is second to none! It has no comparison! Feel free to ask me about anything, girls, and I'll be more than pleased to tell you. Well then, you better come in soon; we'll be departing again in no time."
- "Will do, Midori-san, thanks." – said Shizuru.
Just after Midori left, Natsuki stood up first and, stretching out her hand, she helped Shizuru to stand up from the grass. The couple walked together and stepped into the caravan, heading to their room. Some minutes after, they began to move again. Natsuki was looking outside the window when she said.
- "These repairs are slowing us down."
- "Shall we use the Yafusa then?" – suggested Shizuru.
Some moons after they had joined the Abaharaki, they discovered that they were in possession of the machine they had left in the woods when they were attacked by the Valkyries and sent to the Earth. Coincidentally, the group passed along that way and Nao had found the vehicle, so she decided to take it to the caravan. Natsuki and Shizuru had found it one day when they were down in the stalls helping with some errands. Natsuki had to make sure to prove them that the vehicle was hers since she still had the power gem that empowered the machine; there was no way that any other gem was capable of powering it on. That's why those types of machines were expensive and unique.
Natsuki considered the idea but then said.
- "It's fine. Besides, I see you enjoy being here with them. I've noticed that you like to talk with Ahn."
- "Is Natsuki jealous?"
- "Of-of course not!" – replied the girl blushing.
Shizuru let out a soft giggle and said.
- "Natsuki shouldn't worry about that. My heart, body and soul is only hers. Besides, I only see Ahn-san as an older sister, one that I've always wanted to have. And I do believe that the other girls of the Abaharaki see her the same way."
- "I see…" – replied Natsuki, embarrassed at her behavior.
Shizuru just suppressed a giggle and kissed Natsuki's cheek, assuring the younger girl with that simple show of affection that what she had said was true. Natsuki smiled softly and took Shizuru's hand in her own and gave it a soft squeeze. They stayed in a comfortable silence until Natsuki remembered how Midori had commented on her lullaby before and the other thing she had said, and she began to search in her mind for any trace of information regarding that. Maybe her father or her mother had told her something about Aries being linked to Garderobe prior to her mother's management. Shizuru noted how Natsuki became more serious and tensed.
- "What's the matter Natsuki?"
- "I was just thinking…"
- "I can see that." – answered Shizuru smiling – "But, may I know about what? You tensed up all of a sudden."
- "Sorry." – said Natsuki to then lead Shizuru to seat on the bed while she remained standing – "I was thinking about what Midori said before. That Aries had a connection with Garderobe even before my mother ruled. I'm trying to remember any fact that may confirm those words."
- "I understand. But, why don't you go and ask Midori-san about it?"
- "I can't do that!"
- "Why not?" – asked Shizuru innocently.
- "It wouldn't look good if I ask about past history of my own homeland. I'm the current sovereign after all." – replied Natsuki embarrassed.
Shizuru smiled at her angel, Natsuki could be very proud sometimes, but this time she had a point. She still didn't quite understand how politics worked in Earl, but if someone were to know about her beloved Natsuki asking Midori about Aries, certainly it wouldn't be positive for the kingdom's image and her ruler in the future. Taking Natsuki's hand once more she now led Natsuki to sit by her side on the bed. Locking eyes with her she said.
- "Worry not my Natsuki. We have all afternoon and night to think about that. And I will help you with everything I can."
- "Thanks Shizuru." – said Natsuki with a tender smile.
Then just as Shizuru said, she assisted Natsuki with tracing down that piece of information that she was looking for. She assisted her angel in questioning her from the most basic to the most uncommon she could think. She asked her if besides her parents, maybe Balgus-san, or even her sister and her protector ever mentioned it. They kept thinking and talking for quite a while; Shizuru took this opportunity to get to learn the history of Aries among other important details, she didn't want to appear ignorant in front of other people and embarrass herself and her Natsuki after all. Natsuki was getting frustrated that she couldn't remember anything, not even the slightest point. She let out a annoyed growl and sprawled herself on the bed, her eyes glaring at the ceiling of her room. Shizuru suppressed a chuckle at how adorable Natsuki looked like that. She stretched out her hand and began to caress Natsuki's knee in a caring way, trying to ease some tension from her beloved.
- "Relax Natsuki. I'm sure you'll figure it out soon."
- "I do hope so. If not, I bet Balgus would feel so disappointed, he will think that I didn't pay any attention to him at all during his lessons." – said Natsuki with a sigh while covering her eyes with her forearm.
- "I don't think he would be disappointed of you ever, Natsuki. You are a great and honorable person who protected her world. I do believe he would be very proud of you if he were to see how you are now." – said Shizuru with determination and love.
- "Well, I'm sure he would be proud of seeing me in combat, which was my favorite lesson after all. I'm quite good at it. He would be surprised to see how skillful I am with Duran now…Duran…Duran…" – mumbled Natsuki for a moment then she said – "That's it!"
Natsuki got up from the bed startling Shizuru a bit, she took the brunette by the shoulders and repeated once more.
- "That's it Shizuru!"
- "What is it Natsuki?"
- "The connection Midori mentioned before! I was so blind; it was in front of me this whole time." – she let go of Shizuru and walked to one end of the room, where Duran was located, she took it in her hands and showed it to Shizuru. – "It was Duran."
- "I thought that Duran was a weapon created during your mother's ruling." – said Shizuru unsure, since she remembered that during her first encounter Natsuki said that it was a kind of weapon made only in Aries and by request.
- "Not Duran, the model per se, a gunblade became more popular during my mother's legacy since it fitted with the image of Aries at that time. However Duran itself has been in the royal family for generations." – Natsuki walked holding Duran in her hands and taking a chair she sat in front of Shizuru – "You see, Duran is not a common piece of weaponry; in fact, only the royal family of Aries can use it, and more specifically, the current sovereign. The reason is that the one who's to become the next ruler of Aries has to take a trial in order to be worthy of this gunblade, since you do a blood pact with it once you have succeeded. The reason is that Duran gives it's holder incredible strength and power, also it is done to recognize you as the next sovereign. I was doing the blood pact ritual in the valley since it's a sacred place; once it was done, I would be going back to the Palace to do the rest of the pre-coronation ritual, and that's when we were ambushed." – said Natsuki sadly – "If I had had it sooner then I…"
- "And Natsuki, how is Duran connected to Garderobe?" – asked Shizuru, still unable to see the connection, and also in an attempt to divert Natsuki from any further sad thoughts.
- "Duran was made by The Aswad clan. The Aswad clan was a race that was said to have helped a lot in Garderobe and assisted the Otome as well. It could be said that they were their blacksmiths and even co-inventors; they basically inherited most of the knowledge of Garderobe by doing that. So, there's the connection; the Aswad clan had a direct relationship with Garderobe, the Aswad clan created Duran, then Duran has been in hold of the Royal Family in Aries for several generations now." – explained Natsuki proudly.
- "So that's the reason why Midori said that, and she was right." – said Shizuru, now comprehending everything.
- "I still can't believe I almost forgot about it…" – said Natsuki with a chuckle.
- "But Natsuki didn't, I'm happy to see that you solved the mystery, and more importantly, that you are more relaxed now." – said Shizuru offering a smile.
- "I couldn't have done it without your help either Shizuru." – admitted Natsuki shyly.
Shizuru blushed at Natsuki's words. She didn't think she was of much help at all, but she indeed liked when Natsuki thought highly of her, even when helping in the smallest tasks.
- "It was nothing, Natsuki. I don't really think I was of much help at all."
- "Nonsense!" – said Natsuki – "You continued asking, trying to make me remember. And most important of all, you didn't grow frustrated at me despite not knowing much of this Shizuru." – she then got close to Shizuru and cupped her face with one of her hands. – "Maybe that's why you complement me so well…" – said Natsuki out of the blue.
Shizuru's blush deepened at this confession; she never expected Natsuki to say something like that. She felt her heart beat faster and her pulse quicken. Their gazes locked and they were leaning in for a kiss when a gasp coming from the door interrupted them; they got apart in that moment and turned their heads to see who it may be: Erstin.
- "So-sorry!" – replied Erstin completely embarrassed – "I-I just came to…to let you know th-that supper is ready!" – stuttered Erstin hastily to then run off back to the kitchen.
Shizuru and Natsuki sighed and blushed a little. They had been caught by one of the girls of the Abaharaki – not that their relationship was much of a secret now in the caravan, but they wanted to keep their privacy at some point – well, this time it was their fault for not closing the door completely. Fortunately – or so they thought – it had been Erstin, who had some type of admiration for both of them; if it had been someone else, they might never hear the end of it: gossip, taunting, teasing; definitely they were quite lucky it had been Erstin. Shizuru and Natsuki then laughed and kissed briefly on the lips, and then they went downstairs to the kitchen to have supper.
Just as they thought, Erstin was acting shyly toward them, but after supper they reassured her that everything was fine and that there was not a problem, and Shizuru even wished her luck with her own love life, at which Erstin blushed profusely and simply nodded. The couple went back to their room and this time they closed the door. They chatted more about Aries and the Guiding Star; Shizuru told Natsuki how her grandfather had showed her and instructed her in different traditional arts, but not martial arts; if she had known some of the basics, she wouldn't have been taken hostage by that 'filthy' Tomoe and Miya girl that time. That's why Shizuru took this opportunity to ask Natsuki to teach her to use a sword and protect herself; to which Natsuki replied.
- "I don't really want to do it Shizuru…"
- "But Natsuki doesn't think it would be good for me to protect myself just in case? And if needed assist and protect others?"
- "I will protect you!"
- "I know you will Natsuki, but we both know that there will be moments where we are separated. And I don't want to be a bother to anyone…"
- "You are not a bother Shizuru. I'll ask for a bodyguard for you." – answered Natsuki.
- "Why is Natsuki so reluctant to teach me? Does Natsuki think that I'm not good enough to learn how to use a sword?"
- "I don't think that! On the contrary, I bet you could become very skilled." – answered Natsuki truthfully.
- "Then why Natsuki?"
- "I don't want you to stain your hands with blood Shizuru…" – replied Natsuki looking down. Shizuru never expected this answer – "The moment you grab a sword is not only to protect yourself or your dearest ones, but to kill your opponent. That's what Balgus told me. He knew the very moment that my father died, that I would bear a heavier responsibility than my sister since I not only would become the ruler of Aries, but also I would become the slayer of the enemies of the kingdom. He knew that if a war were to start, I would be the one leading the army and battling in the front. I would have to kill in order to survive and live." – Natsuki paused for a moment, then she continued – "Before I met you I had almost lost it. I had killed so many that I didn't want to battle anymore, but then my friends risked everything for me and made me open my eyes. This was my destiny: the destiny of a King. It's a heavy burden caused mostly because of meaningless battles and a stupid war. But whether a king or a commoner, the burden is the same after you decide to take a sword in your hands. I don't want you to carry the same burden as me, Shizuru." – said Natsuki sincerely.
Shizuru was completely speechless; truth be told, she never thought about what Natsuki had said when she asked her to teach her how to use a sword. For a moment she thought it would be just like it was at school with the kendo team; they were martial artists, but they had not learned the techniques to kill. She now realized once more that Earl was a very different place in many ways. In here to carry a sword was of vital importance and a high responsibility, and it shouldn't be taken lightly, as she had. She felt ashamed about it, for taking such a serious matter like a child's whim. Natsuki noted how Shizuru's mood had changed after she expressed how she felt about Shizuru's request; she didn't want to make Shizuru sad so she said.
- "I'm sorry Shizuru, I…"
But before Natsuki could say anything else Shizuru embraced her.
- "No Natsuki! I'm the one who should be apologizing. It was very egotistical of me to even ask you, Natsuki. I really didn't have in consideration what you've said, and more importantly how you felt about it. You're right Natsuki, you're totally right. I don't want to cause you any more pain, nor have I wanted to be another burden to you, my Natsuki. I'm very sorry." – said Shizuru in a sad tone. Natsuki stroked her chestnut hair – "I like it when Natsuki protects me, but I also want to be able to protect Natsuki, and also it's just that I don't want to cause you more worries."
- "Shizuru…" – whispered Natsuki who just hugged Shizuru tighter.
Then she remembered her mother; she remembered how she never saw her mother hold a sword in her hands. However, she did remember that her mother was a great fighter, maybe not as skilled as the four grand generals or Balgus himself, but she was able to stand and fight proudly. With that thought in mind, she said.
- "I think I've found the solution Shizuru."
Shizuru got a bit apart and saw the smile in Natsuki's lips, along with the care in her eyes. Natsuki then said.
- "I'll teach you some basics with my mother's weapon of choice: a staff. That way we can both be more tranquil, I believe."
- "Thank you Natsuki, you indeed are the most lovable angel." – Shizuru kissed Natsuki's lips – "I promise you I'll be very careful."
- "Good. Then we will ask Midori for one tomorrow."
They got apart and in that moment a knock came from the door.
- "Who is it?" – asked Natsuki.
- "It's me, Nina."
- "Come in."
The younger girl just opened the door and stood by the entrance of the room.
- "Natsuki-san. Midori is requesting your support for tonight's shift. She needs some extra help since some of us are still doing some repairs or checking other matters."
- "No problem Nina, let Midori know I'll cover it tonight."
Nina simply nodded and closed the door again. Shizuru smiled at how her Natsuki was always ready to give a hand when needed; she didn't act as royalty usually would, being presumptuous and rude. That's why Natsuki never ceased to amaze her.
- "Well, I guess I should be getting ready for tonight's shift." – said Natsuki, taking Duran and adjusting it on her waist.
- "Ara, then maybe I should be too."
- "Oh no, no, no. You will not accompany me on tonight's shift, Shizuru." – replied Natsuki, knowing awfully well what Shizuru was thinking.
- "Why not Natsuki? I don't think Midori-san would mind."
- "You are distracting!" – said Natsuki with a blush adorning her face.
- "Distracting? How so?" – asked Shizuru innocently, taking this as her cue to tease Natsuki a bit.
- "Every part of you is distracting: your hair, your skin, your perfume, your lips…" – said Natsuki – "And I have to have my five senses with me tonight."
- "Ara, Natsuki sure has paid attention to my body, perhaps more than I have imagined, so all she thinks about is doing dirty things to me." – teased Shizuru, which of course, as usual made Natsuki's blush deeper. Giggling behind her hand Shizuru then said – "I promise I'll behave, Natsuki, I'll try not to be as distracting so you can focus on your duty, so please?"
Natsuki glanced at Shizuru and then with a sigh she said.
- "Fine, but first…"
And before Shizuru could process what was going on, Natsuki had taken her in her arms and was kissing her passionately. It stopped all thoughts in Shizuru's mind. Natsuki's kiss was so breathtaking that she didn't feel when Natsuki had laid her on the bed, had walked out of the room and had locked her inside their room. After she recovered from her dazzled state, she noticed that indeed Natsuki had left her and locked her in their room no less! For the first time in all the time they'd been together, Natsuki had beaten her in a teasing match. Shizuru laughed and then sighed in happiness, she didn't mind loosing, not after what Natsuki had done. After all, it may have required a lot of resolve from Natsuki to leave her like that. That just showed how serious Natsuki was when doing an assignment.
- "It's because of that and many other things that I love you with all my being, Natsuki." – said Shizuru.
With nothing else to do, she decided to put on her sleep clothes and try to sleep. It would be quite difficult without Natsuki laying by her side, but she also knew that she could sleep tranquilly since Natsuki was watching over her.
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Shizuru opened her eyes in the middle of the night, maybe just a few hours after Natsuki had left her in their room. Just as she'd thought, it wasn't easy to sleep without her angel. Maybe she could go to the kitchen and prepare herself some tea, she thought, but that was when she remembered that Natsuki had locked the door after she left, so she wondered if the door was still locked. Shizuru got out of the bed and put on her daily clothes; then she went to the door and placed her hand on the door knob and turned it around. She was a bit taken aback when the door opened. Then she thought about the raven-haired girl and smiled.
- "Maybe she felt guilty for locking me up." – thought Shizuru.
And how right she was – just after Natsuki had left, she came back and unlocked the door. Fortunately for her, Shizuru was already asleep so she didn't hear when she did it. Shizuru left her room and wandered around the moving fortress that the leader so fondly called 'Gakutenou'. She at first thought about going to the kitchen just as she had planned but then she decided to go in search of her Natsuki. She was careful enough not to make any sound or act suspicious to avoid any misunderstanding. During her walk she came across Ahn, who was also in charge of tonight's shift. They chatted a little. Even though Shizuru never asked Ahn about the raven-haired girl, Ahn knew perfectly well that the brunette was looking for her majesty, though she said she would be heading back to her dorm. Smiling a knowing smile Ahn said.
- "You should go to the top floor and watch the stars and the moons before you go back to your room. I bet you'll enjoy the scenery and it will help you get to sleep. Have a good night, Shizuru-san."
After that, Ahn left to continue with her patrolling. When Shizuru thought about it, she realized that it had been some time since she'd last seen the stars of Earl. She always liked to see the two moons on starry nights; it served as reinforcement to assure her that she was in Natsuki's world. Shizuru walked upstairs and, opening a door that was on the deck, made it to the top. And much to her amusement, there was Natsuki. She was about to call her when she noted the pose Natsuki was in. She was standing with her eyes closed, her arms stretched out and Duran was being held by the hilt with both hands, just lifted there, not in any particular fighting stance. She was just standing there, completely relaxed. She'd never seen Natsuki do this before, so she wondered if this was one exercise of swordsmanship, and if Natsuki had to continue training in spite of everything. She looked so concentrated that she didn't want to interrupt her. She could ask about it later, so silently, Shizuru closed again the door and headed back to her room. She lay on the bed and closed her eyes, sleep finally claiming her.
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The next day when she woke up early in the morning she was greeted by Natsuki, who was already in their room sitting by her feet on the bed.
- "Good morning, Shizuru."
- "Ara, good morning, Natsuki. How was your shift?"
- "It was normal. Nothing extraordinary happened." – said Natsuki with a shrug.
- "Maybe if Natsuki had not locked me in our room, I could have made it better." – said Shizuru in a teasing tone, and she omitted on purpose the fact that she had discovered that Natsuki had unlocked the door later.
- "I'm sorry about that; I had to make sure you wouldn't follow, and that was the only thing I could think of." – said Natsuki, while blushing and rubbing the back of her head.
- "Don't worry Natsuki, I'll let it pass this time, just because you used a great strategy."
Natsuki's blush deepened and she turned her head to the side in an attempt to hide it; trying to change the subject, she said.
- "Shall we go and see Midori to ask her for your weapon?"
- "That can wait. Rather, I'd like for Natsuki to sleep a bit."
- "Don't worry about it, I'm used to it. During the war there were many sleepless nights for me." – said Natsuki matter-of-factly.
- "But you shouldn't get used to it. Now there are better times for Earl, thanks to you, the Abaharaki and everyone else. So, please, get to bed and sleep at least a bit. I'll make sure to wake you up." – said Shizuru patting the bed.
Natsuki smiled at Shizuru and, unable to contradict her love's request, she laid on her side on the bed and closed her eyes. Shizuru watched Natsuki sleep as she caressed her raven locks affectionately. Some hours passed and Erstin knocked on their door to let them know that breakfast was ready. Shizuru thanked Erstin and then proceeded to wake up Natsuki. She hoped that at least these hours of sleep had helped her angel. She woke Natsuki up by kissing her on the lips softly. This made Natsuki smile tenderly at her mystic girl. She was more than happy to have Shizuru by her side in Earl; she wondered what she'd done to earn the love and care of this wonderful girl. She would make sure to protect Shizuru and make her stay in Earl the most pleasant thing ever in her life.
The couple got up from bed and went to have breakfast. Luckily it went without any complications; even Ahn omitted the fact that she had seen Shizuru wandering around Gakutenou at night, for which Shizuru silently thanked her. When they were finished, but before Midori left the room Natsuki said.
- "Midori, can I talk to you for a second?"
- "Of course, your highness, what can I do for you?"
Natsuki just rolled her eyes at the honorific, and simply stated her business.
- "Do you have in the armory a staff that you don't need? I want to teach Shizuru some basic defense."
- "We have a few, yes. You may go with Shizuru-san to the armory and pick the most convenient one for her. After all, you know how important it is to wield the correct weapon; also you may take armor pieces for yourself and her. We have sufficient stock, so don't be concerned about anything and feel free to take what you need."
- "Thanks Midori."
- "It's nothing. Just don't be so strict in her training. She might not be able to stand Balgus' pace." – said Midori with a laugh to then leave to do her own chores.
After the conversation, Natsuki and Shizuru went to the armory and Natsuki assisted Shizuru in picking a staff most suitable for her. It was a very simple staff, but its material is what made Natsuki recommend it to Shizuru – she'd never thought Midori would have such a great piece of weaponry in the armory. Shizuru was amazed by it; she could notice that despite being so light, it was almost unbreakable. Natsuki told her that it was an alloy of adamantine and energist crystals. Those materials were used only in high quality weapons because were not easy to get. She told Shizuru that Duran for the most part was made with drag-energist crystals, which were a variant. After that, they picked out some pieces of armor for Shizuru that covered her chest and back, along with other parts in order to protect the arms. Natsuki insisted on getting her a full set of armor, but Shizuru refused, insisting that it would only slow her down and make her more vulnerable. Plus, being a beginner she doubted she was strong enough to handle its weight. Content with their choices, they headed to the roof to start on the basics of defense.
Natsuki, along with the help of some members of the Abaharaki, taught Shizuru several movements that would be useful during a real confrontation – not that they wanted to be in one, but it was better to be prepared just in case. Besides Natsuki, Ahn was the one to help her the most since her weapon of choice was a double-ended halberd, and the similarities with a staff were many, or so she had said, and unbelievably it seemed that Natsuki agreed with her. This really helped to overcome Shizuru's insecurities about using the weapon improperly.
Some more moons passed, and there wasn't a single day when they didn't train. It was midday and they were on the roof; Natsuki was showing Shizuru a special exercise. Shizuru was standing holding her staff in front of her with both hands and had her eyes closed. Her breathing was slow paced, trying to reach some point of relaxation and meditation. Natsuki was watching her with her arms crossed over her chest.
- "Remember, Shizuru, if you want to master a weapon you have to dominate it, you have to be one with the weapon. It must become an extension of your body." – she saw how Shizuru was relaxing even more – "There, that's good. You should be able to feel a closer connection with your weapon now. You are improving quite fast, Shizuru."
Shizuru opened her eyes and looked at Natsuki. Since she started to train and, more specifically, doing this special exercise, she had wanted to ask Natsuki about it. She wondered if this was what she saw Natsuki doing several nights ago on the rooftop, so she asked.
- "Does Natsuki do this practice as well?"
- "Of course! One has to continue practicing regardless of battle experience and time. Even my master Balgus once told me that despite being considered one of the top sword masters of Earl he had not reached perfection. So, I practice whenever I have time, and I must say that I'm doing quite well – I've been feeling more connected to Duran recently; maybe finally my training is paying off." –said Natsuki excitedly.
Shizuru smiled at her beloved angel, and they continued training for some more time, to then take a break there on the roof top and contemplate the beautiful scenery; that was until the caravan did a sudden stop and a girl of the Abaharaki yelled:
- "Spotted injured person!"
Natsuki and Shizuru got down to the main deck in order to find out more about the situation.
The person was carried inside the Gakutenou and was currently being attended to by Youko while being questioned by Midori.
- "Who did this to you?"
The man, who was older than them by several years, was panting and in a lot of pain. His injuries were fatal, and they knew it, however they had to do everything that was within their hands to assist him: there was always a small chance to save the wounded. The man took a deep breath in order to speak; his voice was rough.
- "A valkyrie squad attacked the ci…the city…" – he tried to clear his throat to continue speaking but the pain was too great – "Guh…they are still heavily armored…the city is about to be burned down…." – the man took more air in, trying to relay as much information as he could in his lasts breaths. – "please…help them…"
- "Were you able to see the leader of the Squad?" – asked Midori.
- "A wicked girl…teal hair…...scar on her face…" – said the man gasping for more air.
When Natsuki heard the description of the leader, she clenched her teeth and closed her hand over Duran's hilt in a strong grip, her body trembling in anger. Shizuru glanced at Natsuki; she too had identified the girl this man was referring to. Midori also noticed how Natsuki reacted to what the man said.
- "Please…help them…" – begged the man one last time, his breathing labored.
Midori knelt by his side and placed a hand over the man's arm and said.
- "Worry not, leave everything in our hands now."
The man offered a small smile in show of gratitude and, gasping one last time ,he rolled his eyes back, closing them to then rest peacefully and unmoving on the bed. Shizuru closed her eyes and got near her lover to hide her face on Natsuki's shoulder. Natsuki embraced her with one arm while stroking her back, trying to soothe her. It was not the first time that Shizuru had seen someone dying, but still it was shocking.
Youko took a sheet and covered the man's body with it while Midori ordered for the caravan to change its course to the city in question, whose name was Palas. Once her orders were followed, she looked straight at Natsuki and asked.
- "You seem to know the squad leader that is responsible for the attack."
- "Yeah, I've got a pending fight with her, and this time I will settle it!" – said Natsuki, tightening her hold on Duran's hilt.
- "Is there any special thing we had to be cautious about? An attack, some formation?" – asked Midori.
- "Not really, she's quite thoughtless of her subordinates and reckless with her orders. Maybe that's what makes her more dangerous: you never know what she'll do; she bases most of her decisions on what she feels, which most of the time is hatred."
- "She really sounds wicked." – said Midori, grabbing her chin with her hand. – "Since you have a pending matter with her, we'll leave her to you, while we protect and assist the citizens."
- "That was what I was planning to do." – replied Natsuki.
- "I'll go with Natsuki." – replied Shizuru, seriously.
- "It's dangerous, Shizuru, you already know what she's capable of." – said Natsuki, locking her emerald eyes with ruby ones.
- "This time I'm not as defenseless. I'll just make sure that no one interferes with your battle." – said Shizuru with resolve and with a tone that left no space for argument.
Natsuki let out a frustrated sigh and growled what sounded like a 'fine'. Shizuru nodded and went to their room to put on her armor and be ready to go with Natsuki. She was nervous but this was something she had to do. She had to be there for Natsuki, and she knew what this meant for her angel.
In the command room Midori was still with Natsuki.
- "I'll have Ahn back you up." – said Midori.
- "Thanks. That way I won't be as worried for Shizuru's safety."
- "That girl sure is something." – said Midori with a chuckle. – "It's as if the luck and strength of the Guiding Star falls upon her."
Natsuki just glanced at Midori and then left the room, going to the main gate of the caravan, ready to leave once they reached Palas.
x-x-x-x-x Some hours earlier. x-x-x-x-x
A girl with teal hair was sitting in a pub just below the inn she was staying at, her second in command by her side as usual. The girl was waiting there for their informants to arrive. She was frustrated and still felt unsatisfied with her revenge. She was also about to die of boredom. Since the war had ended and the empire had left them on their own, she had been trying to continue fighting just for mere pleasure, but she didn't want to become just a simple and pitiful thief; she was a general from one of the most potent armies in Earl, the leader of the perfect soldiers of the Artai Empire, the valkyries! Fortunately for her, she was able to gather some soldiers that had been left behind by their leaders, and now she had a fairly large army under her command.
As for the reason as to why she was in that muddy city and hidden in the meantime, she was scheming her next plan. She had sent some of her soldiers to scout the area in hopes of finding something worthy of her attention. She was starting to trace the scar on her cheek in an obsessed way when one of her scouts came in to the pub.
- "Tomoe-sama."
The girl turned her attention to the soldier.
- "Took you some time…"
- "My apologies, Tomoe-sama, I…" – stuttered the soldier.
- "Just give your report already. Found something worthy?"
- "Yes Tomoe-sama. I was confirming the information; the Abaharaki are moving not far from here."
- "The Abaharaki? That sure is something. They'll be able to stand for a good fight." – said the girl, smiling wickedly. – "How far away are they?"
- "Less than half a day now."
- "Perfect! If we begin now, they'll be here in time for the big show." – said Tomoe with delight – "Miya, gather everyone immediately; we will execute my last plan now. I want it to be carried out without delay. Now, go!"
- "Right away, Tomoe-sama."
The soldier and Miya left the pub in a haste to relay their commander's orders as quickly as possible. Meanwhile, Tomoe gave her scar one last pinch and went to her room in the inn to get ready herself, all the time laughing madly.
Amazingly, it didn't take too long for the plan to be completely developed as planned, and in no time the city was seized. The inhabitants could not believe that there were still soldiers from the Artai Empire lurking around,much less that they were now attacking their small city.
Tomoe had given specific orders to their soldiers, to take everyone prisoner and kill any that opposed; she didn't want to begin a slaughter, yet. She also ordered her soldiers to set fire to precise places in the city, so that the fires could be seen in the distance. This would draw the attention of the Abaharaki without doubt.
She was currently on the top of the highest building in the city, contemplating in delight the show she had created, and as usual, she was tracing her scar with her finger.
- "Such a wonderful display; hopefully the main attraction won't take long to arrive."
Just as if her dreadful pleads were heard, Miya came running and said.
- "The Abaharaki have reached the entrance of the city."
- "Splendid! Then Miya, relay this last order to everyone."
- "Yes, Tomoe-sama?"
- "To have fun with them and with the citizens. They are free to do as they please."
- "As you wish, Tomoe-sama."
Miya ran off once more to relay the orders of her commander.
- "Well, I better go down to the streets to personally greet my special guests."
With that said, Tomoe went down to wait for the leader of the Abaharaki, who would most likely be the one to confront her.
The Abaharaki arrived at the main entrance of the city, and Natsuki ran out of the caravan as soon as the gates opened. She didn't wait for the other members of the Abaharaki to gather and go out at the same time. She had just one objective in mind: to find Tomoe and finish her. Midori stepped out just a few seconds later and gave her final orders to the rest of the Abaharaki.
- "Our priority is to save and protect the citizens. We will focus on extinguishing the fires after we've made sure that there are no valkyries around and everyone is safe and sound. Now go!"
- "Roger!"
Shizuru ran off in the same direction that Natsuki had gone, being followed closely by Ahn. Natsuki was running across several alleys and streets, just following her instincts. On her way she came across some soldiers that were coming out of one alley. They were laughing and what was worse, they had fresh blood in dropping from their weapons. They stopped in their tracks upon seeing the raven-haired girl, who was standing in a fighting stance with gunblade in hand. One of the soldiers dared to say.
- "Look, seems like she will give us more fun than 'those' did."
Natsuki glanced at what was behind the soldiers, and she froze. There were some bodies lying on the ground, drenched in blood. Even more chillingly, it seemed that they were quite young. She could barely see that one had long blonde hair – most likely it was a girl. Natsuki's eyes showed pure rage, and her blood was boiling; she felt anger rise in all her being. She had been trained to keep her cool, even in combat, but this was too much even for her. Such callous disregard for human life was too much.
- "You filthy bastards! How dare you do that?"
- "We are just following orders, and it was to have fun." – said one of them nonchalantly.
- "You are insane! You'll pay your crimes now!"
While holding her gunblade, Natsuki pleaded in her mind.
- "Please Duran, give me strength."
After that, Natsuki charged with all her might. The hatred was blurring her senses now, so she swung her sword with a strength that seemed almost inhuman. The soldiers watched, frightened of how she fought. Some soldiers were already lying on the floor dead, and the ones that were still alive turned around and tried to run away for their lives. However Natsuki wouldn't let any of that happen. She ran after them and soon reached them. Sadly for them, their pleas for mercy and forgiveness fell on deaf ears.
When she finished with those soldiers, Natsuki continued on her way across the city, to where she thought Tomoe was hiding or waiting. She encountered more soldiers, and just as before she was blinded by pure fury. Finally, she made it to the city's main square; it looked like the fire had not reached this part of the city yet. She was scanning the area with her eyes when a soldier came to confront her. While she was battling with him, she heard a voice coming from behind her.
- "At last you have come, leader of the Abaharaki; I've been waiting for you. I'm glad you could make it in time for my show; it has been prepared especially for you…" – the teal-haired girl stopped talking when she saw how this person slew her soldier easily, to then turn around and face her. She felt her throat go dry. Her eyes opened in shock. – "Impossible… how can you be?"
- "Believe it or not, it's me, Tomoe." – said Natsuki with a smirk.
Tomoe lowered her head, her bangs covering her eyes. Her body started to tremble. In that moment, Natsuki could hear what seemed to be a whimper coming from the girl in front of her, though she realized she was mistaken when Tomoe straightened up while laughing out loud in amazement.
- "HAHAHAHA! Wonderful! This is even better than I'd expected! You certainly are more entertaining than the Abaharaki!"
- "What do you mean?"
- "I was planning to be amused by the leader of the Abaharaki, but I'd certainly prefer if it was you."
- "So, you planned all of this to fight with Midori? You attacked a city and prepared to burn it down for mere fun?"
- "What can I say." – answered Tomoe – "Life was being boring after the war, so I decided to take the matter into my own hands."
- "You…you…are a psycho!" – yelled Natsuki in anger.
- "Enough talking." – said Tomoe, taking her sword out.
Tomoe swung her sword, connecting with Natsuki's in a powerful strike. Natsuki was able to dodge and attack Tomoe back. She could sense that Tomoe was just fooling around, trying to enjoy this encounter in her own sick way. They exchanged more blows, from time to time with their swords grazing some parts of their bodies: the arm or the leg, just a small bruise, nothing too serious. It went like that for a while, until Natsuki found an opening in Tomoe's defense. After a blow to this opening, she threw Tomoe to the ground a few steps away.
Natsuki was raising her sword for the final blow when Tomoe raised her hand and snapped her fingers.
After that motion, several soldiers came out from the buildings around them, and at the same time Tomoe stood up and took her sword again.
Natsuki watched them surround her, and that was when she noticed that one of them was holding an old man who was begging for his life. The soldier had his sword pressed to the old man's throat. Before Natsuki could move in order to save the old man, Tomoe said.
- "Now amuse me, your majesty!"
Once she had said that, the soldier nodded his head and cut the old man's throat, ending his life.
- "NOOOOOO! " – screamed Natsuki.
Tomoe just smiled and walked toward Natsuki again. She had done that to taunt the raven-haired girl so she could have a fulfilling battle, and possibly her revenge.
She attacked Natsuki once more, but she was met with such a powerful blow that her sword broke into pieces, injuring both of her arms. She was lying on the ground again, her eyes opened now in alarm. The raven-haired girl now had a frightening aura surrounding her; when Tomoe saw Natsuki turn to her once more she watched the other girl's eyes: they looked like those of a demon. For the first time, Tomoe felt so much horror that she couldn't move. One of the soldiers saw how Natsuki was menacingly approaching their commander, and he launched himself to protect her, only to be pierced by Natsuki's gunblade.
- "Attack her!" – ordered Tomoe in trembling voice as she tried to stand up and get away from the other girl.
The soldiers followed the order immediately and charged towards Natsuki. Regrettably, they were no match for the Aries sovereign, who was now consumed by wrath. Balgus always had told her to keep her cool and maintain control of her emotions during a fight, but she put that aside now. She couldn't control herself, not after witnessing all of this. Her mind went back to that time when Aries went through the surprise attack from Artai's Empire and, more specifically, the attack of this mad girl, to how this depraved girl had probably done the same to her people, to her home. Her pupils dilated and she let out a scream that sounded like the roar of a beast; she only saw red.
Some soldiers attacked her at the same time, but it was futile, Natsuki blocked every attack and counterattacked right away, slaying anything that came across her gundblade, which was glowing a hue of blue now.
She charged towards a soldier who also had his sword shattered into pieces, to then be eliminated himself.
- "This is for Palas' people." – said Natsuki with ire. She ran to another soldier who suffered the same fate as the previous one – "And this is for Balgus."
Natsuki continued to kill soldier after soldier, even when they tried to run away in an attempt to stay alive.
Shizuru and Ahn had been running for some time now. They didn't encounter as many enemies as Natsuki had, and the ones they confronted were taken down easily. They turned down an alley and reached the city's square. They were stunned to see the quantity of enemies taken down already; it was a pool of blood, and in the middle of it was Natsuki.
Shizuru could see that Natsuki was not acting like her usual self; she was acting more hostile, to the point of showing no compassion. The sight worried her to no end, along with the sight of Natsuki's injuries; she was bleeding profusely but still moved on and continued fighting. Shizuru also noticed that Duran was glowing blue. She saw how Natsuki eliminated soldier after soldier, and she could hear the pleading of these warriors for their lives to be spared, and then to only hear their screams of agony.
Ahn was just as perplexed as Shizuru; she had never expected to see the raven-haired girl like that. She had heard some gossip that Natsuki had extraordinary technique but sometimes she was rather impulsive and aggressive in battle, but not to this extent. She and Shizuru saw that Natsuki was approaching Tomoe with a murderous glint in her eyes. She had finished with all the soldiers by now, and the only one left was the teal haired girl, who was unable to move due to the shock and tremendous terror she felt after witnessing Natsuki eliminate her followers one by one. She couldn't stop the trembling of her body. Natsuki was several steps away from her but Tomoe could still see her figure clearly; Natsuki turned her body so now she was standing with her front directed towards Tomoe, the grip on her gunblade becoming stronger. Tomoe was able to notice that slight motion, and with despair and fear she managed to let out a dreadful scream.
- "NOOOOO! STAY AWAY!"
Staring at the wavering figure on the ground, Natsuki said.
- "And this is for the people of Aries."
Shizuru was able to hear Natsuki despite the distance. She was planning on killing Tomoe now, but regardless of the fact that Tomoe was completely guilty of her sins, Shizuru knew that Natsuki shouldn't kill her when Natsuki was in this state. She was being consumed by rage and the feel of revenge; Shizuru wanted Natsuki to end this battle fair and square, not by acting in the same way that her sworn enemy acted. Otherwise, she would end up feeling ashamed, not for Tomoe but of her own behavior. Not wanting to see Natsuki in those circumstances, Shizuru didn't think twice and said to Ahn, who was by her side.
- "Please Ahn-san, help me stop Natsuki. This shouldn't end this way."
- "But Shizuru-san…"
- "Please!" – begged Shizuru, who didn't tear her gaze from Natsuki any moment.
Ahn simply nodded and tried to figure out why Shizuru might request such a thing, but she wasn't able to think much about it since Shizuru had started to run towards Natsuki the moment she saw the Aries sovereign starting to run in Tomoe's direction while screaming.
- "I'LL KILL YOU NOW!"
Natsuki had her gunblade up in the air as she ran to Tomoe, but before she could reach her, two strong grips, one on her shoulders and one on her waist, halted her right on the spot. Natsuki struggled to get free from the hold.
Tomoe watched the scene, still petrified, until she heard a familiar voice not far from her.
- "Tomoe-sama!" – yelled her most loyal subordinate, Miya.
Miya was running to her with a worried look, once she had reached her commander she said.
- "Let's get out of here, Tomoe-sama! The Abaharaki have taken control of the city now. Our troops are either captives or dead; we have to go now!"
Tomoe nodded absentmindedly. She had not heard a word of what Miya had said; she was just feeling relieved that she had been taken away from that hell. Miya assisted Tomoe in getting up, and the two ran away in a carriage that Miya had prepared before reaching Tomoe.
In the meantime, Natsuki was still struggling to free herself from the strong grip that was holding her back.
- "The battle is over, Natsuki-san. Please stop!" – said Ahn.
- "Let me go! Let me go!" – yelled Natsuki.
- "NO, Natsuki! I can't do that! This shouldn't end this way! Please understand!" – replied Shizuru, who was holding Natsuki by the waist – "Also, you are heavily injured. We have to treat you at once!"
During her struggling, Natsuki was able to notice from the corner of her eye that Tomoe was fleeing away with the assistance from one of her minions. She gritted her teeth and said.
- "It's not over yet! I can still fight!"
Ahn and Shizuru noticed how Natsuki had stopped struggling, and now her body had become a little bit more relaxed. Natsuki's fury had begun to fade away, so Ahn and Shizuru decided to let go of the girl. Natsuki lowered Duran, and Shizuru noted that the blue glowing had vanished the moment Natsuki calmed down. However, even with Natsuki's rage gone, she was still acting strange, as if she was in a trance. She let Duran fall to the floor but gave one step forward and murmured.
- "Not yet…"
In that moment Midori, along with some other members of the Abaharaki arrived. They all saw how Natsuki took another step while mumbling.
- "I can continue fighting…" – Natsuki took another step and said – "Not over yet…"
She suddenly stopped and leaned forward. That was when Shizuru noticed how from Natsuki's back was forming something like a white lump, she suddenly realized that Natsuki was unconsciously summoning her wings.
- "STOP, NATSUKI!" – yelled Shizuru.
But it was too late; Natsuki straightened again while letting out a scream as her beautiful pair of wings formed on her back. Everyone stared at her, astonished; they couldn't believe what they were seeing. Natsuki stumbled backwards, and as she was falling, her wings melted away before she hit the ground, completely unconscious.
- "NATSUKI!"
TBC…...
I hope you liked this first part.
Thanks for reading and don't forget to review. Leebot-sensei and I do really appreciate it.
See you around!
Shezaei neko