Chapter 34:

Part 1:

Faraco leaned out of the window letting the cool wind caress his upturned face. The sun had already begun its westward journey and would soon disappear behind the wall of fog that surrounded Fa Sang. He looked around the room. They were indeed nobly housed, for these apartments looked fit to entertain a Prince.

' Well they are entertaining a Prince.' He frowned a little wondering where the others were housed, especially Lee.

There was a low cushioned seat just by the window. He sat down on it looking at the sky. He marveled at the strange climate of Fa Sang, surrounded as it was with the harshest environment he had ever encountered. It was as if they had been walking in a barren cold desert and had suddenly come across a beautiful oasis.

' Then why do I feel uneasy?' He heard a joyful shout and leaned out of the window to determine its cause.

His room overlooked a tiny garden carpeted with grass that would put the softest velvet to shame, in the middle of which stood a lonely fountain with sparkling blue waters gushing out of the marble fairy's outstretched hand.

He smiled a little. The fountain was lonely no more; the patter of tiny feet surrounded it melding with the symphony of gleeful shouts and joyous laughter. Several children played catch around the fountain, their chubby cheeks rosy from exertion and dirtied with dust, colorful tunics muddied and riddled with dust stains or the stray tear where it got caught in a bramble ... He envied them, their innocence...

' Is that why I feel uneasy? Do I fear that their innocence will be sacrificed in this war that is not theirs?' He sighed remembering the conversation that had passed between Hotohori and Freya.

Faraco had never seen a castle that had so curious a design. It was divided into tiers, each tier having its own gardens, fountains, orchards and houses. He couldn't quite comprehend the architecture of the castle and found himself quite bewildered by the curving marble staircases, tall spiraling towers and the beautiful colored glass windows that lined the hallways through which Freya sometimes led them.

He snuck a look at Menesku and was surprised to see a small frown mar his smooth forehead. His sharp gray eyes studied the surroundings and Faraco could see a small tinge worry in their depths.

' What is he worried about?' Faraco frowned, though he could feel a similar emotion stir in his heart. 'What am I worried about?'

He looked around and wondered why he felt so ill at ease. The gardeners were tending to the orchards, maid scuttled about their duty, soldiers stood with practiced ease at the doorways, children played in the gardens, jumping in the stray puddles of muddy water caused by faulty irrigation. It was like a picture, beautiful and calm.

"It is so peaceful. "Lee's words caught his attention.

He turned and smiled at her. "Yes, it is. " He agreed to her words. ' Perhaps we have become so used to the scent of war that the very scent of peace makes us uneasy,'

"I feel awful Faraco. " Lee's voice was quiet.

He was walking with her a little behind Hotohori and Freya, flanked by a rather quiet Shizimi at their side. Menesku had moved ahead to join their discussion.

"Why?"

"Don't you see Faraco? They are at peace here, knowing no bloodshed, no war. And here we come, bringing hatred into their lands. Why did Taiskun hide the scroll here of all places?"

He wondered on that topic himself many times these last few weeks. ' Why indeed?'

He worried about Hotohori as well. He liked Hotohori's easy denamour but lately Hotohori was very withdrawn and quiet. He spent most of the time during their journey here practicing and brooding over the several strategies that Menesku had laid out before him. The only ones he interacted with seemed to be Menesku, Shizimi and Liang.

He was still very well mannered, but perhaps even he had not realized that he was a little detached when he talked to them. Even Lee did not seem to capture his full attention. Faraco did not know what to make of it. He was glad that with Hotohori's mind elsewhere, he was free to woo Lee and even when Hotohori's intense gaze focused on Lee, he could see the muted passion in his hawk like eyes were soon diverted into another course...

"He is stressed. " Lee had reasoned. "He is acting just like my brother does before his tests. He becomes all ... I don't know ... weird. "

That would have made sense if he knew what tests were. What Chulivey had said made a little more sense than that.

"He is stressed, yes. But, more than that, he is worried. He is a seishi and by what we saw during the fight with the Black Warrior, he is very powerful. With the power of Suzaku he should have had no difficulty in defeating the Black Warrior. But, he struggled to do this. In the end he gained a somewhat upper hand ... "

"But that awful man cheated. "Lee shivered a little.

"It was not a duel my Lady. " Chulivey chuckled. "It was war and the Black Warrior used all the cards he held to get the upper hand. "

"It was still cheating. "

"In war, we call that, a strategy. "

"Hmph. "

"But that isn't the point here. That battle made him doubtful about his skill as a warrior and as a seishi. "

"But I told him that it wasn't his fault that I got ... captured. "

"So you have Lady Lee. But does he believe it? I think not. And when Lady Keeah returned the sword of Suzaku to him she threw a direct challenge to him, a dare to stop her if he can. "

"We will stop them. "

"No Lady Lee. Rephrase your question, will we stop them?"

Faraco sighed remembering that conversation. As if Hotohori was aware of his gaze on his back he turned his head back and smiled at the both of them. It was an action of habit, and not of the soul for the smile of his lips did not reach his eyes before he turned towards Freya once more. Yes, he missed his Prince.

Freya led them through a long hallway before they came into a large courtyard. It was flanked by tall columns, which encircled the place, separating it from the garden that stretched just outside it. It was also circled by a wide channel of sparkling water that fell form the artificial waterfall built into the wall of the hallway from where they emerged. Tiny circular stones shaped like delicate flowers floating over the water joined it with the garden. Strange creepers climbed up the columns, their blossoms lending a dash of color to the white crystalline columns.

Several high backed wooden chairs were placed in the middle of the courtyard surrounding an ornately carved round wooden table.

Freya stopped, clapping her hands. Several maids came out carrying basins, towels and jugs full of water.

"I regret the inconvenience. "She smiled sweetly at them. "But your rooms are being prepared. Pray refresh yourself a little here. I have asked the maids to draw a bath for you in your rooms. "

"Thank you. "Lee smiled happily. "I am really dirty. I could use a long relaxing bath. "

They washed their hands and took their seats around the table. Freya sat at the head of the table, her slender hands folded primly over her lap. She turned at Hotohori.

"So, my Lord, why is it that you desire the assistance of Fa Sang?"

Hotohori leaned back; his voice took on the lazy honeyed drawl that Faraco had seen him employ on formal occasions. "My Lady, my country has been at war with by neighboring country for many years. There is an article on Fa Sang that could tip the balance of this war in the favor of they who acquired the article first. "

The laughter died from Freya's eyes. " I see. " She looked into Hotohori's eyes, her expression serious. "What is this article that you speak of?"

"A scroll. "

"A scroll? The great library of Fa Sang holds many scrolls, their numbers as numerous as the stars in the galaxy. Which of these scrolls do you seek?"

Hotohori seemed to ponder on that for a while. "Years ago, there was a terrible war between my country Konon and Kutou. In order to be able to defeat the then general of Kutou, Nakago, Seiryuu, guardian of Kutou was imprisoned in a magical scroll. Now war has broken afresh between our nations and my rival wishes to unseal Seiryuu so that they can access the power of their God once more. " His hands curled into fists. "I cannot allow that to happen. That is why I have to find that scroll before them. That scroll is hidden on this island and that ... is why I am here. "

Freya was quiet for a long time. Then she spoke again. "Your rival will come here?"

"Definitely. "

"I knew that one day we would be faced with this situation. "

"You knew?" It was Shizimi who spoke, surprise evident in his voice.

"Of course Shizimi. "Freya said gravely. "Decades ago, Fa Sang was asked to guard a very precious scroll. It was said that this scroll held a being of great power and should be kept safe until its rightful owner arrived. Perhaps that is what both you and your rival seek."

"Where is it?" Hotohori asked curiously.

"I am afraid that only the Elder could say that. "

"Then take us to him. "

"I am afraid that is impossible my Lord. The Elder is in the meditation chamber at this present moment and we are forbidden to disturb him until tomorrow morning. "

"Pardon me my Lady." Menesku cut in calmly. "But surely you understand that time is not a luxury we can afford. We must have that scroll first. "

"And why is that? Because you got here first? Because you rescued Shizimi?"

"Because we do not want unnecessary bloodshed on your land. If you delay us strife will become inevitable. "

"I am no fool Lord Menesku ... "

"Menesku. " He interrupted. "I prefer to be addressed as Menesku. "

Freya smiled. "Menesku it is then. We do not wish to be caught in the middle of a battle that is not ours. Fa Sang is neutral territory and I intend it to remain that way. "

"I see. "Hotohori smiled. "But you see Fa Sang cannot remain neutral with the seed of discord sown in its earth. "

"Yes it can. " Freya was adamant. "Tell me about you rival. Is he a bloodthirsty savage? A barbarian?"

"First of all, it is not a he, it is a she. "

"Ah. A woman!"

"Yes."

"Tell me, will she slaughter my men without cause? Turn red the waters of the fountains because she wants to? "

"Only if you oppose her. "

"But I don't intend to oppose her at all. I intend to forward to her the same hospitality I have shown you. "

"I see. " Hotohori pursed his mouth and Faraco saw the telltale tinge of red in his eyes that betrayed the anger he was trying to suppress. " I will not mince words Lady Freya. Chose. My rival or me. "

Freya smiled, unmoved by the veiled threat in his voice. " The scroll is hidden in a maze built in Fa Sang. It has two entrances, each leading to the goal. What I ... as the administrator of Fa Sang propose is a race. You will chose a champion from your crew and so will they. Both of you will have an equal opportunity to acquire the scroll. I ... am sure that the Elder will agree to this as well. "

There was a long silence. Then Hotohori looked up. "What if they enter by some other way?"

"There is no other entrance to Fa Sang unless ... " Freya frowned. "But that way has been sealed for centuries. Eons ago, Fa Sang was attacked. The main castle of Fa Sang held off the intruders for many days, till one day it fell due to the betrayal of one its Priests. But the warriors of Fa Sang were able to repulse the attack and the rebels were driven into the catacombs that were built into the bowels of Fa Sang and its mouth was sealed with very powerful magic. It is impossible to enter that way. "

"Are you sure?"

"Very sure my Lord. "

"Very well then ... I ... agree. "

" It's not like you had a choice my Lord. Only the Elder knows the entrance to the maze and without our assistance you will never find it. But for now, enjoy our hospitality. " Freya got up smiling. "My attendants will show you to your room. "

"Much obliged Lady Freya. " Faraco did not miss the sardonic gleam in Hotohori's eyes.

Freya bowed once more before retiring.

"So how different was that from your diplomatic missions?" Shizimi's questioned his lips curved into a disdainful smile.

"It was worse. " Hotohori chuckled.

A familiar giggle brought Faraco out of his reminiscent mood. He looked down into the garden to see a familiar petite figure join with the children around the fountain.

' Lee.' His lips curved into a small fond smile.

It would seem that Lee had taken that long relaxing bath for her copper hair hung damply across her shoulders. She had donned one of the fresh tunics out of the bags that Freya delivered up to their chambers. Her cheeks were flushed with excitement and her eyes sparkled with joy.

Perhaps that was what attracted him to her ... attracted all of them to her. Except Menesku perhaps. But he could be mistaken there. Menesku was not a easy person to comprehend. It was her innocence unencumbered by the jaded politics and bloodshed of their land. It was something he wanted to protect.

He saw Lee stop running and sit at the edge of the fountain panting a little. The children played around her banking on that unreserved bank of energy they seemed to possess. He saw her cup up the sapphire waters and splash it on her face. Faraco smiled a little enjoying her childlike glee.

The children pulled at her hand beckoning her to follow. Faraco saw Lee being persuaded by the big pleading eyes and pouting lips. She got up from her seat and allowed them to lead her away.

Silently Faraco transformed into a small swallow and followed them. After all Menesku had left him with strict orders to guard Lee, not that he needed an excuse to be by Lee's side.

OoOoOoOoOoOoO

Chulivey sat on the bed brushing her hair absentmindedly. It was clear to her that Freya held a position of great honor and was vastly respected amongst the people of the island. After she offered them hospitality, the people became much less hostile. Chulivey could see that they were still suspicious but once it was evident that their guests did not mean many harm, they were more than happy to offer their hospitality. And frankly, she was only too glad to accept. She was starved for a long soak in a warm tub and a bed, which did not sway under her.

She sighed a little putting down the comb and began to expertly braid her hair to restore some amount of order to the brown curls. The bed on which she was sitting was placed by a window that was cut into the stonewalls of the house and looking outside she saw the rays of the dying sun draw patterns of red and gold on the surface of the sapphire waters.

There were several houses that lined the shoreline of Fa Sang, all made of stone with curious sloped roofs thatched by something similar to dried fern and in more than one case strange flowering plants circled the stonewalls, climbing over the roof and forming a curtain in front of the door. The room where she was sitting at the present moment belonged to one Katsu, a grizzled old man who appeared to be the head of the people who stayed by the jetty.

Their house was bigger as compared to the other houses in that they had two extra rooms, which housed herself and Liang at the present moment. Timur and the other four were also offered rooms but they refused the hospitality offered, preferring to remain on the ship. Privately, Chulivey believed that it was their superstitious dread of the Devil's Circle that did not let them step on Fa Sang's soil.

Though she did not share that particular belief, dismissing as a tale concocted by a sailor very, very deep into the cups, she shared Menesku's belief that they had reached the island of Fa Sang very quickly, too quickly. It was smooth sailing despite of the fog and the apparently treacherous Ku Youg Sea. But ever since she landed on Fa Sang she found that particular fear pushed to the recesses of her mind, another very real and tangible fear taking its place.

There was a rap on the door. Chulivey looked up. "Come in Liang. "

The door was flung open and Liang came in impetuously. "They ain't got any sake."

Chulivey looked up with a long-suffering smile. "I believe that there is still some bottles left on board the ship. But I would advise you not to get drunk tonight. "

"Meself don't do drunk. "Liang looked affronted. "Besides meself can't think straight without some alcohol in me system. "

"Of course. "

"Ya don't believe me? Meself can hold my own after ten bottles!"

"I am impressed. But ... Liang do you think that they will find a way here?"

"They? Oh them bastards of Kutou? I dunno. I mean its not like they have the map and nobody in Nobu knows the map 'cept Shizimi and he's the guy who led us here ... So, yeah, meself cannot understand how they're gonna get 'ere. Hotohori looked kinda definite though ... "

"Yes, my Lord Hotohori was adamant about that. "

"Which makes meself think, what 're we gonna do when them idiots come marching in. Throw flowers and sing welcoming songs?"

"I am sure we will not have to do anything so drastic. " Chulivey chuckled. "I am pretty sure that Menesku will send us instructions pretty soon. "

"Yeah but what if they come waltzing in before ice block can send us word?"

Chulivey was silent for a long time. "I ... honestly don't know. "She said at last.

"We can't kick their ass without dragging one of them innocent people in it. "Liang grumbled flopping down on of the wooden chairs that resided by the bed.

"Yes, we cannot engage in open combat without dragging the civilians into harm's way. " Chulivey agreed. "And even though Fa Sang has offered us hospitality, we do not know what its position will be with regards to this situation. I believe that they will try to remain neutral. "

"Oh man, I hate this politics shit. "

"So do I and thankfully we don't have to deal with that aspect. " Chulivey frowned. "It is strange though. I think that Lord Hotohori's meeting with Lady Freya should be over by now ... I don't understand why Menesku is not sending any instructions. "

"Yeah, it is strange behavior for the ice block. But then again this political shit takes a lot of time. Maybe they ain't finished yet. " Liang got up. "All this tension is giving meself a headache. Me self's off to get one of them bottles from the ship. "

"Liang. "

Liang stopped at the door favoring Chulivey with a lopsided smile. "Meself ain't gonna get drunk but me tongue needs to be wetted. "

He was gone. Chulivey sighed smiling a little. "Tongue wetted ... indeed. "

OoOoOoOoOoO

Lee purred a little as she soaked in the luke- warm water letting its soothing touch work out the knots in her body.

' This is positively dreamy.' Her inner voice sighed. ' Just what the doctor ordered. '

Lee picked up the loofah and began to scrub herself trying to clean the dirt she had accumulated during the last two weeks.

' This is so peaceful. I wonder how long it will last.'

Lee frowned. Leave it to her inner voice to provide the perfect anticlimax. She looked around. Sunlight streamed through the magnificent stained glass windows forming wonderful multicolored patterns on the marble floor. Sparkling blue water fell with a soft gurgling sound in the hexagonal tub in the middle from the artificial waterfalls built in the walls of the bathhouse. Colored petals floated on the surface of the water and scented oils were displayed in crystal bottles along the edge of the bathtub.

How could anybody think of something so ... depressing at a time like this.

' How can you not?' The voice in her head said somberly. ' You have a really sharp sword suspended by a single horse hair right at the top of your head and even though you may be treated like a king, you cannot quite forget that about the danger that lurks above your head.'

' Don't be so melodramatic. ' Lee grumbled. ' Let's enjoy this while we can.'

' Yeah.'

At least they agreed on something.

After a while she stepped out of the water vigorously rubbing herself dry and donning a crisp new tunic from the bag. She sat in front of the mirror absently combing her hair.

A small sound distracted her. Startled she looked back. A shadow disappeared behind the billowing curtains.

"Who is there? " She gripped the handle of her comb. "Show yourself."

' Yeah or we'll clobber you with this comb. ' Her inner voice growled.

There was a small noise from behind the column and a small curly head peered shyly from behind white curtains that fluttered in the lazy wind.

' Its only a boy!'

Lee smiled. "Hello. Where did you come from? "

The boy pointed in the direction of the door. Lee got down on her knees and beckoned the boy. "Hi! My name is Lee. What's your name?"

The boy dragged his feet on the ground. "Toru. "

"Toru, is it? Come here. Don't be afraid. "

Toru seemed to be caught between curiosity and fear, in the end curiosity won and he moved ahead to stand in front of her studying her with wide blue eyes. At last he decided to speak.

"So did you really come from the lands beyond the sea?"

Lee nodded. "So, I did. "

"Oh. "Toru seemed to process that for a while. "How do the lands beyond the great sea look like?"

Lee pondered on how to answer that.

' What are you going to say?' Her inner spoke up. ' There are green fields and wide rivers, there are large cities and small hamlets, there are tall mountains and scorching deserts, undulating grasslands and forests so deep that even the sun cannot enter their leafy fortress ... And there is war... Hatred that hangs like polluted air over the lands.'

" And since when did you get so philosophical?" Lee grumbled and decided on the half-truth. "It is a little like Fa Sang, only bigger. "

"Oh. "Toru pondered on that. "Then it must be really big!"

Lee couldn't help giggling a little, extending a hand towards him. "So, Toru shall we be friends?"

Toru favored her with a wide toothless smile and shook her hand violently. "Yes. Come let's play catch."

' Catch?'

Toru pulled at Lee's sleeve. "Come on. "

She gave in and allowed Toru to lead her through the lonely hallways into a secluded garden. It was more like an open courtyard surrounded at all sides silent buildings, carpeted with the softest grass and accessorized by a fountain in the middle. Several children played around the fountain, their chubby faces flushed with happiness and for a while Lee felt that she had stepped into a picture.

Toru's sudden appearance with a stranger caused them to stop and warily edge forward. Toru clutched her hand and introduced her with obvious pride.

"This is the Lady from beyond the sea and she will play with us. "

"Will you?" A girl with a riot of purple locks on her head asked.

"Of course. "Lee smiled.

"Very well. "Toru looked up at her. "Then ... You are it!" Laughing he ran out of reach. "Catch me if you can. "

' Why you ... brat...' Her inner voice growled.

Laughing she launched into the fray. " Lets play catch."

OoOoO

Lee panted a little wiping the sweat from her brow. Her cheeks were flushed with excitement and her hair stuck to her forehead damp with sweat. She sat down on the edge of the fountain trying to catch her breath. She could not remember the last time when she had so much fun and for a while she had forgotten what had brought them to this paradise.

"Hey Lady. "

Lee looked up startled. She smiled a little looking down into the cornflower blue eyes that looked up at her expectantly. "Yes Toru?"

Toru's chubby cheeks puffed. "Don't you want to play with us no more?" He demanded pushing his flyaway black hair out of his eyes.

The other children crowded around her waiting for an answer, their dusty faces turned upwards expectantly. Lee smiled.

"Of course I do. I am just catching my breath. "

"Oh. "They seemed to settle down for an infinitesimal moment before they began to fidget. A girl with tousled golden curls pulled her sleeve.

"Are you rested?"

"Not really. "Lee cupped some of the water and splashed it on her face. "I don't think I am cut out to play that any more. "

"I know. "Toru was hit by a sudden inspiration. "Lets play hide and seek."

" Yeah. " The rest took up his idea.

"Come on. "Toru smiled at Lee. "I want to show you something..."

Once again Lee found herself persuaded to follow.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoO

Menesku stepped out of his room into the empty hallway outside. He paused a while to determine the direction towards Hotohori's room and then he stalked off in that direction. The hallway was quiet, its peace hardly disturbed by the light patter of his feet, shaded in patterns of light and shadows due to the dying sunlight that streamed through the large stained glass windows.

When he rounded another corner he stopped.

' This is not the way to Lord Hotohori's room ...but ... I have to discuss something with him...'

He could hear footsteps and voices ahead of him. He stopped undecided what to do. The voices were just beyond the next bend.

' Maybe they could help me. ' Menesku frowned.

"Freya, I wish to remain alone for a while. " Menesku stiffened. It was Shizimi, his voice held a tinge of bored detachment. "So, kindly remove yourself from my presence. "

"Alone Shizimi?" Menesku could imagine Freya pouting. "How can I leave you alone? You are one of us..."

"One of you?" He could hear Shizimi chuckle darkly. "Don't make me laugh. "

"Cruel. And I was so happy to see you return."

"Are you?"

"You are impossible Shizimi. " Freya said throbbingly. "Just like your brother. "

There was a sharp rustle of fabric and then Menesku heard Shizimi's voice again. "Don't ever mention my brother again. " His voice was rigid with a kind of cold fury. Then he heard another noise and a large crash.

Menesku bared his teeth in a silent smile. ' This ... is most interesting.'

He paused for a while and moved in the direction of the sound. He turned the corner to see Freya sitting in the ruins of what looked might have looked like a crystal vase when it was whole, the flowers it held scattered all over the floor. At the sound of his feet Freya looked up.

"Oh ... " Her lips parted into a small wan smile. "I apologize that I am unable to get up to greet you. "

Menesku bend forward and pulled Freya up lightly setting her on her feet. Freya wobbled a bit and Menesku thrust an arm around her waist to steady her as she swayed on her feet.

"Sorry ... I am usually not this disoriented. "

Menesku's lips curved up into a smile that did not reach his eyes. "Of course you are not my Lady and I am sure that Shizimi is usually not so violent. " His eyes rested a while on the livid bruise on her arm.

"You ... "

"I am sorry. I was on my way to Lord Hotohori's chambers when I happened to overhear your charming conversation. I had no intention of intruding on such an obviously private discussion."

Freya bit her lips casting her eyes towards the floor. "He has changed. "

"Ah."

Freya looked up into Menesku's impassive face and for a while she seemed to look for a tinge of emotion in his aloof gray eyes. She found a none and then she realized that Menesku had not removed his casual grip around her waist, nor had she removed her hands from the lapels of his tunic, which she had clutched when she was trying to steady he wobbling feet. A delicate pink rouged her face and she made a move to detach herself.

He let her go. She squashed the feeling of disappointment and stepped away. "You said that you wished to go to Lord Hotohori's chamber. Do you want me to help you?"

"That would be nice my Lady. "

Freya smiled. "Come then. "

She began to walk down the hall with Menesku at her side. She stole a shy look at him from under her lashes. " So, Menesku, tell me about your land. "

Menesku shrugged. "We have valleys, mountains, rivers, villages, a couple of cities and people. "

"That's ... certainly not the kind of description I had expected. "

"I am sorry to disappoint you my Lady, but I am no poet. "

Freya raised her eyes to his face, her gaze passed like a flash of green flame over his form before she lowered her gaze, her face reddening at her forwardness. "That ... you are not. "Her voice sounded sultrier than she intended.

Menesku seemed unfazed, he did not seem to notice the slight change in her voice. He walked beside her, his back straight and eyes focused ahead. "Does Shizimi have a brother? " He broke the silence that had descended between them.

"Yes. " Freya bit her lip; a habit, which Menesku realized, was something she did when she was nervous. "But please so not ask me anything about them. I ... it is not pleasant. "

"So, your island is not the perfect paradise after all. " Menesku chuckled darkly.

"What do you mean?" Freya stood in his way, looking up at him, her green eyes flashing dangerously.

"Roses will look good in your hair my Lady. " Menesku did not seem to hear her last question. Instead he turned to one of the rose bushes of the garden they were passing through plucking a delicately blossoming rose and handing it to Freya. "Pardon me for marring the beauty of your garden, but I couldn't help myself."

Freya blushed. Shyly she accepted the rose from his hand. "Ouch!"

A small prick of blood blossomed at the end of her thumb. Menesku caressed her hand, a cryptical gleam in his eyes. "I forgot. Roses have thorns. "

Freya pulled her hand away. "I don't understand you at all Menesku. "

"That is perfectly fair my Lady. I don't understand you either. "

OoOoOoOoOoO

Hotohori paced on the terrace, a frown marring his smooth forehead. He remembered the hurried conversation he had with Menesku before he retired to his chambers. He sat down on the cushioned seat of the swing that was suspended by golden chains from the arched rafters overhead and ran Menesku's words over in his head.

Menesku stood at the edge of the terrace looking down. "Isn't this convenient. A room with a view. "

Hotohori came to stand beside him. His room was situated in one of the tall towers that rose like crystalline fingers from the last and seventh tier of the castle. The wide winding marble staircase suddenly opened into a room whose magnificent opulence stunned even him. This room opened into a terrace skillfully modified to resemble a garden, complete with the shunted trees and fountains. He was speechless.

Menesku had insisted on accompanying him to his quarters before retiring to his own. Hotohori knew that Menesku was not happy about being separated and the more he saw of Fa Sang's beauty; the more his mood seemed to detoriate. He was scowling by the time they reached his quarters and the beauty of his quarters solicited a rather dry response from him.

"Impressive. " His voice did not sound impressed at all.

Presently he came to know why. Menesku turned at him. "Have you noticed that they have put us in four corners of the castle? '

" Is that what has put you into such a black mood?" Hotohori smiled. "The people of Fa Sang have been nothing but courteous towards us from the time we landed. I don't think that they mean us any harm. "

" Don't you think that we are trusting them too easily?"

"I am merely giving them the benefit of doubt. "

" They are practically smothering us with attention. Lavish quarters, servants at your call ... "

"Menesku, you are being paranoid. "

"Right. Then why do I feel that I am being fattened like a lamb for slaughter?"

Hotohori sighed. "Menesku, calm down. Has the hard pallet that you use at camp made you so unused to luxury? "

Menesku glared. "You are not taking me seriously. "

"I understand your concerns Menesku. But that scroll is somewhere on this island and you know that Freya is correct when she said that we will never find it without her help, and at this point we have no other choice but to trust her. "

"But my Lord, what guarantee is there that Freya is telling the truth?"

"None whatsoever. Believe me, if there was any other way..."

" You would have seized it? " The edges of Menesku's lips twitched. " But I thought you gave your word. "

"To hell with my word. " Menesku was surprised to see the tinge of red in his eyes. "I have given this a lot of thought Menesku. You are right. Honor has no place in war. If I somehow manage to acquire that scroll, we will have tipped the balance of war in our favor. So, at present the only thing I am concerned about is victory and everything else can take a hike. "

Menesku chuckled. " I see. I will take my leave now, but I will return later. Take care my Lord. "

"I will. " Hotohori smiled. "Check on Lady Lee also. "

"Don't worry my Lord. " Hotohori felt that he saw a tinge of mischief in Menesku's eyes. "I left Faraco to guard her and I am sure he will perform his duty zealously. "

He was gone.

' Faraco.' Hotohori growled. ' Does everybody know about this tussle between Faraco and me to win Lady Lee's affections? And I can't believe that Menesku of all people teased me about it. I mean ... Menesku?'

He stretched himself. Sometime earlier he had asked for writing materials. The inkpots and the parchments were scattered on the floor in front of the swing. He folded his knee an sat down on the grass.

' How did they manage to grow grass here?'

He looked over the several unfinished pictures that adorned the parchments. He had made several abortive effects to capture the beauty of Fa Sang, but none of his endeavors had pleased him.

' I am obviously rusty. '

The light was almost gone. He had to squint to see the lines.

' I have to get some light. Maybe one of the servants can bring me a lamp. '

He got up and entered the room. The room was darker and he negotiated his way carefully to the silver bell that resided on the ornate desk at the other side of the room. Suddenly he felt the hairs on the nape of his neck rise. He turned around instinctively grasping the hilt of his sword. Through the shadows and the fluttering lace curtains he saw something move in the darkening terrace.

He unsheathed his sword. "Hello, do you mind coming out?" Years of training kept his voice normal.

He saw something akin to solidifying darkness bend over the scattered parchments. Long dark hands tentatively picked up the papers delicately between narrow claws; the head bend as if studying it.

Hotohori moved ahead. The creature made a spitting sound and retreated in the shadows clutching the parchments. Hotohori stopped.

' What is that?' He lowered the sword. "Come out. I won't harm you. "

' At least until you try to hurt me. '

The creature did not move. After a long time, it spoke.

"This ... is ... picture."

It was a statement. An observation.

Hotohori was surprised to hear the creature address him in human tongue even though it was spoken hesitatingly, as if spoken by somebody who has not talked for a long time. He was unsure what to say. The creature spoke again.

"You make picture. "

Hotohori frowned. "Yes. "

The creature moved forward. Squinting his eyes Hotohori could make out only a thin hunched shadow in the darkness, its overlarge front limbs hanging almost to the ground, a long thin tail lashing behind it. There was a movement at the door and the creature gave an angry hiss before moving into the shadow.

It was a servant carrying a lamp. "I am here to light the other lamps my Lord. " He bowed.

"Leave it. "Hotohori hoped the darkness covered the startled paleness of his face. For a while he wondered whether he should tell the servant about the creature. But somehow he did not feel like revealing the presence of the creature.

' Which makes me wonder whether I am right in the head.'

"But my Lord. "

"Go. " Hotohori said sharply. "I wish to rest now. The light will disturb me. "

"Very well my Lord. " The servant placed the lamp on the table beside the door and retreated.

Hotohori turned at the now dark terrace, the yellow light from the ornate lamp cast long dancing shadows on the walls. "Are you still there?"

Hotohori heard a light thump and saw a darker shadow crouch in the darkness just outside the periphery of the light.

"I ... make pictures. Once."

' What?' Hotohori did not know what to say.

" I not ... like light. "

"Oh. " Hotohori sat down on a divan facing the terrace letting the sword lie innocently on his lap. "Do you have a name?"

"Name?"

There was a long silence.

"I had name..." The creature sounded almost wistful.

"So what is it?"

"... I ... not remember... " The creature's voice was pained and then angry. "I NOT REMEMBER. "

Its voice rose to a long melancholy howl rising in a strange vibrato of pain before it pounced inside the room long claws extended, bottomless red eyes boiling with some kind of undefined hatred. The lamp was overturned its pale flame flickering before plunging the room into darkness.

Hotohori's blade flashed for a while in the darkness and then all was silent again. A strange luminous green fog floated in the room, lighting their shilloutes in some kind of ghostly light. The creature was crouched on one of the tables silently watchful once more.

Hotohori's tunic was shredded on his shoulder and two long scratches were visible on his skin through which drops of blood oozed out. The creatures red eyes focused on the cut.

"You bleed. " Its voice was wondrous.

"Of course. "Hotohori's voice was sarcastic. ' Why the hell am I having this conversation with this ... this ... thing? It attacked me. I should kill it. ' Strangely he found himself unable to carry out his resolution. ' I am standing in the dark, talking to something that has every intention of killing me and I am okay with that. Now that's scary. Maybe all those sleepless nights are finally taking its toll.'

" I not bleed. "The creature spoke again. "I not die. I not live. I shadow. "

' Shadow?' Hotohori frowned. "So, Shadow, why have you attacked me?"

"I not know." Shadow sounded confused. "You live. "

"Yeah, so?"

"I shadow. You live. Must kill live." Shadow's eyes flashed with that hatred once more.

"Okay, that makes a lot of sense. Why didn't you kill me then?"

"I not know. You make picture. I ... make picture..."

"Are there more of your kind?" Hotohori asked. ' Menesku, you were right after all. Fa Sang is no paradise. '

"They stalk other live."

"Live?" Hotohori felt a stab of panic." Where?"

"Below."

Hotohori froze. "Below?"

"In sewers. They kill. "

"Who?"

"Live kill. Live kill Them. "

"Them?"

"Dead who walk. Them bad than live. "

' Okay let me see if I understand this. There are few people who are trying to enter Fa Sang through the sewers. One guess who?' Hotohori frowned. ' Dead who walk? Does he mean Undead? So, our dear friends ran into a little welcoming party. But, Freya said that that way was sealed. '

"So, can you go into the sewers from here?" He asked at last.

"Yes. " Shadow fidgeted. "Them want treasure hidden there."

' Treasure? Could he mean the scroll? There are others after it?' Hotohori's eyes narrowed. "Will you take me there?"

"Live trust Shadow?"

"Yes. "Hotohori said with finality. ' I must be mad. '

Shadow did not move for a long time. Then it stalked towards him. "Shadow take you. " It glided out of the room.

' I am mad.' Hotohori followed Shadow. ' But at least I know what to expect of it. Menesku is going to kill me when he finds out I went frolicking with a highly untrustworthy character. But this is a chance I have to take...'

OoOoOoOoOoOoO

Keep reading!

Please Review!