A/N: It took me another year...I can only apologize, but thanks to anyone who are still willing to follow this.

Just a reminder

Italicized words are for flashback and dreams, something that happened in the past.

Bolded words are for emphasis or something I would like you to read up on.

Underlined words, I don't really use...haven't found a use for them yet.

Anyways, enjoy!

There's a subtle glow far pass the rocky distance as the sun peeks between the blue and gray. The path is moist thanks to the lingering fog that had yet to dissipate, slightly sinking the coach's wheels into soft dirt.

I see the outline of the town gate a mile away and within it, the small stores and setups of the village. We are one stop closer to our first goal, one town away from the major city of Maleki.

For now, we decide to rest at the nearest village, Onkui, just a day away from our true destination. In any case, Yun also wanted to collect some intel.

I use this time to recollect our journey so far as many stores have yet to set up.

It's been three mornings since we left Naam and departed for Maleki...the most beautiful of cities. The city itself is known for it's naturalistic view and materials, going so far as to eat only organic foods and process recyclable goods.

Why of all places we chose this one, I had a few reasons in mind.

Prior to the departure, Yun and I discussed many routes and came up with a plan to cover the grounds in the quickest manner.

He had no problem with it, however, many questions still boggled him as we set forth, some I also shared.

xXxXxXxXxXxXxXx

"Why not visit the town you were first discovered in?"

He looked at me with a questioning stare, one that held only curiosity and nothing more.

Most people would try to retrace their steps rather than jump to the nearest town without a clue.

Thing is, my situation is far from normal and as far as I can tell, I may not be so either regrettably.

"A hunch." I responded.

"A hunch? Pray tell that there be a reason behind it?"

I responded as best I could, desperately trying to understand it myself.

"I just have a feeling that I won't find anything there...at least not right now. Whatever happened and whatever it is that I'm connected to, it's left no trace as far as I'm concerned. Miss Lily had Whim check in with the villagers and found nothing suspicious. No villager had come in contact with me prior to being found. They said that a few hunters left town one early morning and found me soaked and high with pneumonia. Otherwise, this would be all too easy. There wouldn't be a point in going so far."

"Are you saying that perhaps...something beyond our current understanding is at play? That you may have been part of something grand, but have been outcast from the story?"

"In other words, yes. The girl I want to find may have tried to save me...protect me from something I know nothing about. Or I may have known, but have completely forgotten."

"Why do you think she did it?"

"I don't know."

"Then why put the life she saved back in harms way?"

I thought about it too in my head, so many times I'd lost count. If I had been saved, why go back in?

I had nothing to rely on but that opaque dream and even then I felt unwelcome.

"I just have to. What I'm trying to find is also the reason why I'm still alive today. If that girl is still out there then it means that I also have a chance to make things right for her."

"Last question. What do you think is right?"

"...I don't know...at least, I won't know until I know it."

"Hmph. Not the answer I hoped for, but an answer nonetheless. I hope that determination of yours isn't as brittle as most humans."

"I'm not most humans. Memories or not, I know I won't falter, not anymore."

Yun smiled somewhat pleasantly but it was gone as soon as it showed.

"I'd like to see that. If you say you aren't so, I'll just have to go with it for now and hope that you live up to the standards you have set for yourself."

"Likewise," I say with a trace of a smirk.

xXxXxXxXxxXxXxXx

We stop by an inn that had just opened up and paid for two separate rooms. Money wasn't an issue as I carried my life savings and Yun...was incredibly loaded.

We had not even established whether we would stay the night, but it was convenient at the moment and the innkeeper was willing.

The extra tip also got us the room a lot earlier. It took only minutes for us to lug our items in and settle into our respective rooms.

The sudden feeling of exhaustion finally consumes me and my eyes no longer have the strength to remain open. In a matter of seconds, I see only white.

xXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXx

"That was wonderful, Roze!"

I lay down my sword and beam up at Grandfather with twinkling eyes as I met his approval.

His big hands tousle my short locks causing a messy bed on my head.

Swordplay was something Grandfather was renowned for and I wanted so badly to inherit his skills, I begged him to teach me and he did.

I grin at him with the widest smile I could muster.

"I want to be as strong as you, Ojiichan!"

"You are a brilliant boy, someday you'll be even better than me!"

"Ojiichan is the best swordmaster in the region, do you really think I'll be stronger someday?"

The innocence of my seven year old youth was as bright as the midday sun, or atleast that's what he use to tell me...

"Yeah, you'll be stronger than anyone and you'll be able to protect everyone with the skills I teach you."

My eyes sparkle in excitement imagining myself as a hero who vanquished evil.

"Roze, you are a bright child...your strength is something that not many have, but need. So...use it to help them." In his wide smile I detected a twinge of guilt.

"Ojiichan, are you okay?" I ask in concern.

"Of course! What's a brat like you worrying about me for? You're still too inept to be showing concern, boy! Don't forget that I'm the greatest swordsman in the vicinity!"

I suddenly flair up at his provocation, taking a stance and wielding my pride.

"Someday I'll be really strong and then I'm gonna make you eat your words!"

His jolly laughter resounds throughout the woods as he doubles over in laughter while I shrink in embarrassment.

"Hahaha, that's the spirit boy. Don't ever lose it!"

He suddenly pulls into an offensive stance with his sword pointing towards me.

I gulp seeing his serious form.

"Don't regret your words now, boy!"

The first swing comes from his sword as he closes the distance in a split second. I tumble back but halt my fall and side step to avoid his next strike.

"Good move, good instinct, but how long do you think you can keep it up?"

I continue to dodge the next couple of strikes, until he fakes and comes in for a jab.

Without moving away, I parry it to avoid taking direct damage, but the strength of his sword blows me back and I fall.

"You've got ways to go so don't get cocky!"

I look down ashamed, I hated losing.

"But you did well..." and that's all it takes for me to bawl my eyes out like a newborn baby.

"Oi oi...boys don't cry like that," he laughs and picks me up. I try to stifle my cries, but I can't so I end up bawling into his shirt. I'm angry, sad, and happy at the same time.

"You are brave and kind, your spirit is strong and your heart is loyal. You have the makings of a hero you know? If you someday wish to extend this hand of yours, do not forget this warmth. The light in you has the power to draw in others. It will guide you down the path that is meant for you because that light is you, it is your biggest strength. Nothing is stronger than it, than you...because you will only grow so much more. So don't forget that light, don't forget what is yours, and certainly you will never lose it.

I feel his strong hands pat me gently on the back, caressing away my frustrations and obscurities.

"You have the power to save those who are lost to the light. I put my hopes in you, my beliefs and all my wishes."

I finally look up to see his face clearly, my tears finally dry as I am overrun by my swelling pride. I never want to let him down, so I have to hold my head high.

I see his big smile so full of trust and hope, I find myself feeling just as big. "I know that one day...you will definitely save them..."

xXxXxXXxXxxXxXxX

I stare at the ceiling still slightly dazed, trying hard not to let go of even a piece of that dream. It was something from such a long time ago that I could hardly believe I could ever remember it. It soothes me to know that I hadn't really lost them nor forgot them, that it is possible to regain what I held so dear.

Grandfather wanted me to save people...to save them. It's confusing and I can't understand everything he's trying to tell me, but I do know that his words then were what made be strive harder than anyone to become strong, yet suddenly I was sent to the Valendorf's. At that time, I could not make much sense of his actions. He wanted me to grow strong, but at the same time he never wanted to lose me. I grew moody and became less social, even blaming him for leaving me behind, but it was never the case. I think I can finally understand his feelings back then and now, how much he wanted to protect me, but still leave me to grow on my own.

His faith was strong...IS strong and I carry it with me to this day.

I won't disappoint him...I won't disappoint myself.

I don't want to lose any more.

There's a hard knock on my door causing me to shuffle out of my bed. My coat is creased as I did not even shed it as I clocked out on my bed.

I hasten over to the door and open it to reveal Yun.

"Had a good nap?" he asks, trying to get the conversation going.

I mutter a quick apology as it seems he had been doing nothing less of his part while I had knocked out.

"It's fine, humans are more prone to sleep deprivation than manas from the start."

I guess this was his way of trying to make me feel better, well it worked a little.

"Why don't we go down and grab a bite? I'm quite familiar with this town, so you may also think of me as a guide."

I give him a nod, blessing my luck that Miss Lily hired an exceptional mercenary. I step out of my room and follow after Yun, fully concentrating on each step with a positive mindset.

Just like this...I'm getting closer...

xXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXx

"Time sure flies by, look it's already noon."

We take a seat by the window and I order a small platter.

Yun asked only for a glass of water.

While we wait, we engage in useless chatter to avoid eavesdroppers.

"Manas of my class don't require as much food as humans. Our primary source of energy comes mainly from our element. Food is an alternative if resources aren't enough."

I nod in acknowledgment.

When the food arrives, I finish it in a quick and precise manner, ready to get down to the real point of the meal.

"I shouldn't have to say this, but no matter where you are or go, keep a low profile." Says Yun. "It is still unclear what dangers this journey holds, but it's best to be safe than sorry."

I keep watch from the corner of my eye making sure there isn't anyone around. Getting others involved is the last thing I want to do and I'd be damned if their blood lay in my hands.

I turn to Yun.

"Ah...I can already tell that this is going to be an unpleasant story. Frankly, one that shouldn't even exist."

"We can't really justify that, now can we? It's a bit early to say that, but it's quite possible that there will be a 'happily ever after'."

I shake my head. "The Miss loved fairy tales, but I was never one for them. The original tales were much more twisted and vicious. The modern tales are modified to suit the young audience, specifically kids. As pretty as the story may be, there is darkness beneath that glitter."

"As brutal as usual, you are..." mocks Yun. "I'd say that you actually like them. It fits with your type of character. Say...were you always like this in the Master's home?"

Before I retort, something catches the corner of my eye.

"I'd say you aren't as unattached as you seem if you're asking about my personal history...maybe you actually don't like being left in the dark? Speaking of the dark, it's still early, but it seems your 5'o clock shadow is showing..."

Of course the mana didn't have one, he was practically hairless besides the bunch that grew on his head. I see his eyes narrow as he catches my drift.

"Is it now? Guess I'll have to excuse myself and give it a quick shave."

Yun slowly rises from his seat and begins to walk towards the hidden form.

I also rise up and head towards the counter and give him a small wave.

"Sorry, I left my wallet upstairs."

Yun nods before turning away.

I tell the waiter to put the bill on my tab, before leaving the room and briskly walking around towards the unknown entity.

Yun having read my thoughts, will cause the spectator to clear away from the vicinity as he edges toward the general direction.

The sound of shuffling, quick and slightly heavy steps head towards the inn's entrance.

The front door opens, slams and now I am on pursuit.

Fortunately, I caught sight of the running figure and remain on it's tail. The being is small, but incredibly quick, but I stay right on its trail even when it turns into the corner.

Yun left the inn through the back and rushed to trap the meddler.

I guess it really pays to be a mana with immense skill. I find myself smirking, knowing that the chase is over...and it's our win.

As I approach the turning point, I hear a lot of shuffling and a small voice.

"L-let go! I swear that I didn't hear anything! I wasn't following you or anything, really!"

"Sounds suspicious, what do you think?"

I see a little girl hanging in between Yun's arms as she flails and bangs at him to release her.

She looks to be about thirteen or fourteen in age, with long, slightly messy bright blue hair, the shade closely resembling my own.

I frown when I see the young girl. It's a little shocking, much to my chagrin, as I expected an older assailant who specialized in the art of stealth.

"Her skills are lacking, but even if she's a kid, we don't know if she is an enemy or not." Yun is clearly taking the right precautions, but I shake my head trying to ease the distaste in my mind. I pray that the girl is innocent and that she has no involvement whatsoever.

"What's your name?" I ask automatically and curse myself. She could lie at any time and I would not realize a thing.

"Puniyo," she replies hesitantly.

"Puniyo...why were you watching us?" asks Yun, still holding her tightly against her will. I can see that Yun had picked up on my unease and fortunately took over.

"I-I thought you were someone I knew!" she squeaks.

We look at her curiously. "Then, who was it that you were looking for?"

I see her cast a glance at me before shifting her gaze down.

Was she looking at me? Did she think that I was someone she knew?

And what if I did know her? I don't have much memory intact, it's quite plausible that at one point we may have crossed paths.

"Why were you watching me...?" I finally ask. I could feel my heart beat speed up. This could actually be another clue.

"Umm, no...I was wrong," she shakes her head frantically.

I sharpen my gaze and ask her once more, "who did you think I was?"

She looks away shyly, "...my onii-chan..."

I look at her puzzled, not sure what to ask next. Yun gives me a quick glance before inquiring her once more.

"It's not unusual to mistaken someone for another person, but what makes you think he is your 'onii-chan'?"

"Um, he has blue hair and is an adult..."

"Anything more specific?"

She shakes your head.

"With information like that, it's hard to tell if she's innocent or not," states Yun lowly. I nod.

"Then why do you say he isn't?"

She looks at us questionably.

"Isn't it obvious? He treats me like a stranger and you handle me like a thief!" She shoots a glare at Yun. "Plus, my onii-chan is still in his teens and is bad at athletics and isn't capable of treating people like that!"

The girl, Puniyo lost her timidity and was now on the attack.

"Let go before I scream for help."

Yun rummages his free hand through his hair.

"Sorry, but you aren't in any position to be demanding. I could knock you out right here and take you with us by force."

The panic soon returns.

"W-wait, please let me go! If you don't, you'll really be in trouble. My parents are going to send a search squad if you don't."

I eye her for any hints at a lie.

"Is that a threat?" I don't like it, but I have to treat her as any other culprit.

"I'm serious! I'm not threatening you at all and I'm sorry for saying something unpleasant. Look, I was only observing you guys because I thought you were my onii-chan! I haven't seen him in five years, so I thought you might be him because of your hair."

Yun quickly turns his attention to me.

"And how do you know that he's isn't athletic now? Five years is a long time and humans grow fast."

"We keep in touch. He sends me pictures from time to time and he's still as wimpy looking as ever."

Quite a hurtful thing to say, even if that person is someone close.

"You have any sibling?" Yun asks me.

I shake my head.

"I'm an only child. Also, I've never left the Miss' residence until only recently. I was on vacation before I was found by the villagers."

The little girl's eyes widened as she heard the last detail. Shit, so much for keeping a low profile.

"Look, we don't know who you are or what you say is true. For the time being, we'll keep a close eye on you."

I shoot Yun a glare and he returns it.

"I don't like this either, but the moment she chanced upon us, she became involved."

The girl began to quiver, panic shown in her words.

"Who are you people?"

I look at her reluctantly, "You don't want to know."

She gulps nervously.

"I swear I didn't hear a thing, please! I have to go home! I-I can prove it! I can prove that I'm just a normal citizen!"

"How?" I ask.

"I'm from Maleki, I'll take you there! My family, they can prove it!"

"If you are part of some secret organization, you could be calling for back up."

"Are you mafia or something? Wait, are you going to use me for a ransom? If it's money you want, I have it, so please...just let me go..."

By this point, I'm feeling exhausted. How did we go from chasing a predator to extorting a kid?

"Hold on a second... you say you're from Maleki?" asks Yun, his eyes alert as if he caught something big.

"Forget it, we don't need money. Do you have something to prove your identity?"

I watch him cautiously, awaiting for something to happen. He sets her down slowly but keeps a strong grip on her shoulder.

"Maleki only houses nobles, that's why there is a village just outside it's vicinity. Outsiders are allowed to come and go as they please, but are never allowed to reside inside. Even if we hoped to stay inside for the night, no inn would welcome us unless we have a royal insignia, which is why Onkui is always so full of tourists."

I glance back at the girl, who seemed quite frustrated at this point. Her face is red and ready to burst into tears.

"I'm from the Lemouri house, but I don't have my crest with me," she says softly. "I left it at home and snuck out. I just wanted to see him again..."

I sigh since we were basically at a dead end, but a click in my head tells me otherwise.

"Were you expecting to see him soon?"

"Y-yeah...I got a letter saying he would be coming down in a few days for the Floral Festival. Your hair color is similar so I mistook you for him."

"When?"

"Sometime today, I think."

I groan, disliking the idea, but what other choice do we have?

"You're going to meet him, but we'll be watching just in case. We'll help you find him, but don't mention a word about us."

From the moment I first awoke, I was the victim, but I never expected to play the role of the villain...honestly, this doesn't sit well with me.

"Depending on his reaction, you may be off the hook."

"I can't trust you...what if you try to hurt him or me?"

"We won't, we'll figure out something to use as collateral, how does that sound? If everything is cleared, just forget us and we forget you. This never happened."

"...F-fine," I can see the hesitance in her eye, but she understood that her options are limited. "Is that all?"

I hide my spite behind a hard glare, hating what actions I may willingly take.

...I'm getting closer...this is the right thing to do.

"It better be."

End of Chapter 6

A/N: I'm a horrible person who likes putting people in frustrating positions, LOL. I'm sorry Roze, you're going to have to suffer a lot more for others enjoyment for as long as I am the author of this fanfic. Also, I'm sorry to let you know that Ulrika will not appear just yet. It may be a few more chapters until I can get to her.

Anyway, I intended to pick up the pace of the story, but I honestly don't know how...everytime I write a chapter I feel like I don't get very far and it's very long to read. That's also why my favorite Ulrika-chan hasn't appeared yet. Don't murder me or she'll never appear! Haha, okay, jokes over...

Any suggestions? Comments? Tell me what you think, I'd love to hear from you guys! Reviews are much appreciated, so thanks!