Chapter 12 : Separation Anxieties
Amongst the ferns and shrubs, amongst the trees and rock faces there was a rocky river bed that ran through the dense foliage, crystal clear water cascading over small waterfalls and small cliffs. Engraved from that stone there were thousands of stone steps that lead beneath a small rock bridge. Those steps were lined with tall torches that blazed day and night.
Behind the small rock bridge rose a towering temple marked with Elves and Faeries of old, dancing and frolicking around the pillars that rose towards the sky and held a domed roof. Their eyes were raised in worship to the sky both day and night. These were the Guardians. This quiet, peaceful temple was the monument bordering on a kingdom that was totally and utterly forgotten… (Sacred Falls Pavilion by Jameswolf)
--
In a shadowed, stone room with a large open window, with all the jungle and forestry growing so close outside, one figure knelt with her fist close over her chest in salute to the figure that stood before her. Her short, brown hair with two white feathers on either side, curtained her face from view while she spoke.
" Excuse me Queen Vala, the reports are in. There have been two ship sightings - one on the northern shore, and one on our southern shore. The northern shore brings with it many people and on the southern shore there is just one, unmoving. My scouts have been keeping a close watch on both parties. My regiment is ready to collect the one that does not move. "
A beautiful woman turned around from the window. She had deep ice-blue eyes and silvery hair that reached her middle back. She had a feather of bright blue tied into her hair, above her right ear. Her ears were pointed elf-like. She wore a silk dress of light ice blue that reached above her ankles. She wore a thin golden chain around her neck and had a matching golden anklet on her left ankle and it jingled softly when she walked. Her feet were bare.
" Thank you Talar. " Vala replied. Her voice was soft and musical when she spoke.
" Watch these people and see what they want. If they mean us harm, you have my permission to attack. " Talar bowed and walked out of the room.
Have you ever seen a bright clear day where the sunlight falls down and baths a structure or castle just so that it glimmers? Have you ever stood and seen the light that shines down through the leaves of a tree and made a magical realm of shadow and light? That if you look just so you can see the tiny motes rising and falling through the beam of sunlight?
Watch as the earth and stone shift and break apart as trees and forestry spring up and climb over stonework as old as time. Here there is no glass, no windows just sky, air and earth.
This was the home of the Marise people, which meant the 'Eternal People'. These people where close relatives to the elves, thus their pointed ears and grace. These people have seen countless thousands of years and know more than what any ever could. Apart from Vala, all the other Mar (for short) had brown eyes and hair. In their culture, their ruler is decided when a baby or a woman (there are no men is this race) are born or have different hair and eyes compared to the rest of them. Most are born fighters, they are determined by their strengths and abilities to fight and protect. The others are raised by what they are by nature i.e. If a baby is born and she is soft and gentle, but has an intelligent mind, she can go work for Vala or the queen that is at the time.
Talar closed the huge wooden doors that were covered in golden vines. Some other Mar looked up as she came out. " Vitani, Arwel, Delia. I want you three to go to the northern shore and keep an eye on our guests. If they mean us harm, send word immediately and we'll attack. Drysi and I shall go and get the other. "
--
The shadows were deep around the edges of the room as one wounded figure lay still in a huge feather-down mattress. Vala approached the bed and frowned in concentration as she probed the young girl's mind. She had scratches all over her face, a gash below her left eye and bruises all over her body. If that was not mystery enough, from the look of the rope burns on her wrists, the young girl had recently been bound.
" Who do you think she is? " Taya asked as she came up behind Vala with a basket of woven vines in her hands.
" I don't know. " Vala replied. " Her mind is closed and I can't reach it. " Vala knelt down on the bed and brushed away the girl's honey-brown bangs away from her face.
" These were all that were on her Vala. " Talar replied holding out her hands.
Vala looked at the small dagger and the necklace. Vala frowned and picked up the necklace. The star spun around into view and sparkled in the sunlight that filtered down through the tops of the trees.
" Hmmm. " Vala mumbled as she studied it.
" Do you understand it? " Talar asked quietly.
Vala shook her head. " No. But this star represents someone who is either shrouded by light or protected by it. Who ever she may be, she is important that is for certain. But she is on a journey and we must let her rest, so she may continue on her way. " Vala replied and gently leant over the young girl and whispered an old Mar prayer:
"Be thy light that shines down from the Dawnstar or water that flows from the cool spring, be thy unbound from the chains of bondage around you and walk once more freely. "
Tiny glowing balls of light swirled around the girl's body and as they swirled crazily the Mar watched as all her cuts, bruises and scratches disappeared. Vala smiled kindly as she probed the young woman for any unforeseen injuries, and finding none, rose gracefully to her feet and turned to the Mar behind her. Her tiny bells tinkling like water.
" She will wake when she is ready. "
Talar looked at the girl laying asleep in the bed and waited until Vala left the room. " We shall see who you really are when you wake, girl who braves the sea of Marise. "
--
Taya was refilling the looking pool with fresh water from the crystal spring when she heard the girl moan and start to move. She finished filling the pool and put down the jug and looked expectantly at the huge wooden doors as Vala gracefully walked in, her hair and dress blowing mystically behind her as she walked.
" I knew you would come Vala. " Taya said as she nodded in greeting.
" I kept my mind concentrated on hers so I would know when she was close to waking. "
Taya, Vala and several others gathered around the huge feathered bed as they waited for the girl to wake. Sunlight filtered down from the afternoon sun and landed on the girls face. The girl moaned again and vivid emerald eyes opened and reflected the sunlight. Taya and the others gasped and starred in amazement. (Remember any colour apart from brown they covet.)
Sakura upon seeing numerous faces that weren't familiar at all gasped and backed up in the bed she was in and stared at them as they did her. The sunlight reflected off their skin and they glowed like stars in the afternoon sunlight. She took in the beautiful clothes and scenery and knew that it was more than likely that she had died. Poor Li, he would be devastated.
" Where am I?" Sakura asked.
" You are in Marise, the home of the Eternal People. I am Vala the queen of Marise and these are my people. " she introduced all that were with her and Sakura nodded in mute greeting
" How did I get here? " So she wasn't dead afte rall… huh.
Vala raised her unique eyes to meet her own." After escaping the men that you were in company of, you jumped into the fast moving current that surrounds the island. You lost consciousness after you hit one of the jaggered rocks in the water. "
Sakura's eyes widened. " How did you know all that? "
" I can look into ones mind and see what it is to be seen. " Vala replied honestly and regally.
At that moment the wind blew inside the room making the gossamer curtains dance and sway. The feathers in the women's hair around her danced and swayed in their hair and Sakura noticed for the first time Vala's pointed ears. Her gaze darted from one to the other and saw that she was not imaging things. She gulped.
" There is no need to be frightened Sakura, we mean you no harm. We of the Mar do not attack unless we are provoked or we have no other choice. You are kind and caring, friendly and have a beautiful soul that sings with life and happiness. You have many the same characteristics as we, which we are custom to. You are safe here. "
" How much are you able to see into my mind? " Sakura asked accusingly.
Vala smiled warmly and the air seemed to sing with life. " Do not worry. I do not look any further than necessary. " Vala replied. " I have seen your story and am quite interested by it. We of the Mar pride ourselves in our ancient and sacred knowledge, but you have a great deal that I fear we do not know. "
Taya and the others gasped and looked at each other.
" You see Sakura. " Vala started. " We of the Mar are the last living relatives of the elves that once roamed this world. As time has moved on, and the world has changed, their world has died and has taken them along with it. We of the Mar have stayed isolated on this island away from the dominating human world and we still live and thrive today. "
" You say you can see things. Can you tell me of what has happened to the boy that was with me? " Sakura asked.
Vala looked at Sakura and shook her head regretfully. " I am afraid that I can only see what has already been in ones mind. I can not see where this boy is if you do not know yourself. I am sorry. "
Sakura looked away sadly." I hope he is alright. " she whispered.
Vala frowned as one of Sakura's memories came into her mind. " You wouldn't know of a boatload of people that were coming to this island would you? A group of men, two women and two strange creatures? They are on our northern shores. My warriors have gone to watch them. Do you know of them? "
Sakura eyes lit up, a huge grin spreading rapidly across her face. " That must be Madison, Eriol, Meilin, Julian, Kero and Suppi too! " she gushed. " They made it!! "
" You know these people. Do they pose a threat? "
Sakura's mind gave her the answer and she turned to the short-haired warrior behind her, her feather dancing gracefully." Taya. " Vala said. " I want you to send word to Tarlar and tell her to retreat. "
" Yes Vala. " Taya said and walked gracefully out of the room.
Vala returned her attention to Sakura. " Rest easy. You have seen much and have been through a great deal. We will talk later when you are rested. " and with that she turned and walked out of the room with her triage filing out behind her. Sakura slumped back against the pillows and blew her bangs out of her eyes. She watched the sunlight filter through the leaves of the trees and flowers and soon she drifted off to sleep lulled by the calm.
--
Sakura woke and walked to the balcony. It was dark, but there was blue light everywhere. She walked outside and gasped. The trees were lighted and she could see staircases that wove around the trees. Glow bugs drifted all around and rose up into the sky. It was so beautiful. She could see the people walking gracefully up and down the stairs holding lanterns as they went about their business. How beautiful they were.
Sakura had to pull herself away from the sight and force herself back inside. She looked around the room that she was in and admired its beauty. The walls were stone but decorated with gold. Vines from the forest outside crawled inside the windows and along the walls surrounding her. Some parts even held tiny little flowers like bells.
Exotic birds flew by the window calling out to one another, their bright colours catching the light and shadow. Somewhere near by she could here a creek flowing and she was once again soothed by the sound.
The room was magnificently furnished and she spotted the looking pool and went over to peer down into the water. The water sparkled like crystals as she gazed into it. The water rippled and she stepped back as she thought she saw a picture appear.
She looked again and she was right! There was an image in there. She looked deeper and saw that it was Tori, Layla and her father. They were standing in a room and they were talking. She couldn't hear them or understand what they were saying, but she could see their mouths' moving.
" Concentrate. " came Vala's voice softly into her mind.
Sakura blinked and the image disappeared.
" Banish thought from your mind as it is only the key to distraction. "
Sakura looked around her. " Where are you? " she said aloud. But she got no answer.
Frowning, she decided to look back into the pool. The image appeared almost instantaneously and as she looked she saw them still talking to each other. She wasn't sure how she did it, but the next thing she knew she was listening to them as if she was actually there…
--
Layla looked at Tori comfortingly. " Tori you must calm yourself. "
Tori growled in frustration and ran his hand through his hair. " What else do you expect me to do? They've been gone for over three months and not one word! The people are starting to forget them and are starting to look toward me and you as their king and queen. That can't happen Layla. My sister is still alive, she has to be. I just can't believe we let her go! "
Aiden sighed heavily. " Tori, we have to have faith in them. I doubt that anything bad has happened. It is on a journey that they are, and must stay until they are ready to return. I am as worried as you are about them, but we must do all that we can as their family - we must trust them and wait. "
Tori growled frustrated and started to pace around the room.
--
Sakura yelled into the water. " No look! I'm ok! You must see me! I'm ok, I'm ok! Please can't you hear me! I can see and hear you, oh surely you must hear me?! "
Vala appeared in the shadows, the light from outside reflected off her hair and eyes as she watched Sakura.
" Tori! Look it's me! " Sakura cried. " Please see me. " she whimpered in distress.
Vala took another step forward.
Back at Berth Seren Banon
" Tori please try to be - " Layla stopped as she thought she had heard something.
Tori stopped pacing. " What's wrong? " he asked quickly stepping toward her.
Please see me. They heard as if the wind had whispered it.
Aiden looked up from where he had been sitting. He frowned.
--
A tear fell from Sakura's cheek and dropped into the crystal pool causing several ripples. It softly started to glow. Vala turned her head to the side, watching as Sakura started to cry softly.
" Tori. " she mumbled sadly missing her sibling.
--
Tori
Tori's dark head jerked up. The candles and the lanterns shimmered as if a gentle wind had gone through the room. Tori shuddered as a shiver went up his spine. Layla looked around with knowing eyes and looked behind Tori's shoulder as the air rippled.
Tori turned around following Layla's gaze and his shoulders went rigid as a faint outline of Sakura appeared in front of him. Aiden gasped and jumped up and moved over to where Tori was standing frozen.
" Sakura? " he murmured.
--
Sakura looked up. " Papa. " she said unsure her voice choked with emotion.
Aiden nodded and she started crying more. " You can see me? " she sobbed.
--
The image faded even more. " No! " Tori yelled. " Sakura we can't see you! Where are you? "
--
Sakura thumped her fists down on the edges of the looking pool. " No, come on see me! "
The image faded and she slid the floor starting to cry again.
" Please don't cry. " came Vala's soft musical voice. " I know what it is you have seen. They are your family? " she asked.
Sakura looked up at her standing above her and wiped the tears away. " Uh huh. " she whimpered. " I miss them so much, and I don't want them to worry. " She went to get her pendant out of her boot where she had left it and cried out when there was nothing there but air.
" Oh no! " she cried. " Where is it?! "
" Do not worry. Are these what you are looking for? " Vala asked softly as she held out her hands.
Sakura visibly melted against the floor with relief as she took back Li's dagger and her pendant that Natasha had given her.
" These mean a lot to you. Why is that so? " Vala asked curiously.
" Why don't you just read my mind? " Sakura asked as she placed the pendant back around her neck.
" I have looked into your mind enough for this day. My mind is tired and I grow weary if I am to look too often. Besides I know that you do not take a liking to it as it is new to your being to have me go into your mind. Your kind are not use to such things as telepathy. " Vala replied.
Sakura nodded and told Vala who she was and why the pendant meant much to her as well as the dagger.
" Here on Marise our people do not share this motherly bond that you have. We are not accustom to it. We are born from others yes, but our bond and allegiance is to the earth and sky. We are raised not by just the person that gave life to us, but by all Mar.
" This allows us to continue our sacred knowledge down through the generations. When a new queen is born, it is a sign to the old queen that her time is nearing it's end. Thus it is our duty to raise the new queen to take on after the old. When she is ready, the old queen will know that it is her time to forfeit her life. And since she was born of the earth and sky, she will return to it. "
Sakura looked at her in horror.
" I can see that our ways are quite different from yours. But let me assure you, your ways are just as horrifying to us as ours is to you. "
Sakura nodded slowly. " I think I am starting to understand. " she said softly. " But it is hard. "
Vala smiled at her. " I don't know why, but for some reason I feel a strong bond with you. Mar are almost completely unemotional towards others that are not of our kin. But something in you - we can relate to and it is very strange for us. It is a new feeling for all, because like me, the other Mar feel it to. We are glad that you have come to us Sakura, child of the Cherry Blossom. "
Sakura's eyes widened as she stared up at Vala. Vala reached down and helped Sakura up. Her skin was soft and silky and Sakura felt embarrassed by her rough hands.
" I want to help you Sakura. When I saw into mind it was greatly troubled. A great worry hangs over you like a dark cloud. For all that you have taught me and showed me I wish to thank you in some way. "
Sakura shook her head. " There's no need. You healed me remember. I am glad to be able to teach you new things for you have showed me so much in return. "
" Here. " Vala said and stared down into the pool. " This can be the beginning of what we owe you. "
" But- "
" Sakura we of the Mar are very generous people when we are not scorned. We are not satisfied until we consider the debt repaid. "
Sakura just looked at her and moved back over to the looking pool. Vala smiled at Sakura and then stared down into the pool as did Sakura. The image of Tori, Layla and Aiden reappeared. They were looking around frantically. Vala looked back up at Sakura.
" Remember, concentrate. " she said.
--
" Please tell me I wasn't going mad. " Aiden said as they all looked around.
" I saw it too. " Tori said. " I think we're both going mad. "
The air stilled suddenly and they could hear the musical chime of little bells. They stopped and watched as the air started to ripple in front of them and they watched as a crystal form started to form in from of them. They could make out toes and then a dress and then that of a female, but she was like a crystal statue until the crystal had fully formed and then colour followed and there stood before them a beautiful woman, who blinked and then smiled.
" What the hell - Who is she? " Tori whispered to Aiden.
The woman nodded in greeting. " My name is Vala and I am the queen of the Marise people. It is an honor to meet you, family of Sakura. "
Aiden and Tori froze. " You know Sakura? " Tori demanded. " Is she ok? Is she- "
Vala laughed and the night seemed to dance with music. " Why don't you ask her for yourself? " Vala asked as another crystal form was taking place beside her.
Sakura appeared beside her and she swayed a little trying to get her bearings. " How do you manage to stand straight Vala? I mean half of me is here and the other half is back there. I think I'm going to be sick. "
" You'll get use to it. But there are more things important. "
Sakura looked up and saw Tori, Aiden and Layla staring at her. " Tori. " Sakura breathed happily.
" Sakura? " Tori asked still in shock.
" Oh Tori. " she said smiling prettily.
Tori went to touch her. but his hand went straight through her. " What's going on? " he demanded.
" Please hurry. " Vala said looking Sakura. " I am starting to grow weak. "
Sakura nodded and started to tell them everything about what had happened.
--
" So now we've lost Li, Madison has no idea where I am, I can't find the cave without them, and Rulf is still alive and well. " Sakura concluded.
Tori was red with anger, Aiden was white and Layla just continued to watch and listen.
"I'll kill him! " Tori spat.
" Good luck finding him. " Sakura muttered rolling her eyes.
Tori glared at her. " You don't think I can do it? " he demanded.
Sakura rolled her eyes again and Vala watched very amused.
" Ah hello, earth to Tori. You can't go anywhere as you have to stay here and watch over my kingdom remember? Geez you're a baka! " Sakura said.
" At least I'm not see-through like you squirt. " Tori said turning away.
" Why you! How many times have I told you not to call me squirt?! " she tried to kick his shin, but she went straight through him. " Arrrrggghhh! " she growled when she realized. Tori smirked at her and Sakura stuck out her tongue.
" Sakura there isn't much time. We're going to have to go. " Vala said.
Tori and Sakura both froze and looked at Vala sadly.
" Are you sure that you have to go? " he asked Vala.
" I'm sorry, but my powers are limited for my kind. What I normally do have has been severely depleted from using them this afternoon. Know that your sister is going to return. I myself will keep an eye on her to make sure that is safe. You have the word of the Mar. "
Aiden bowed. " Than that is all we can pray for. Thank you for all that you have gone too your majesty. "
Vala blinked and looked at Sakura. " Are all humans as courteous and grateful as your family? "
" Some are. But you will find that most are not. " Sakura replied sadly. " It's a shame really when you think about it. "
They started to disappear.
" I love you! " Sakura called out.
" Bye sweetheart and be careful! " Aiden yelled.
" Love you squirt! " Tori yelled as the colour faded from them and the statues of crystal crumbled and dust lay on the floor where they had been.
--
Sakura dreamed that night of being back home again, of having all her troubles solved, of the Mar people and even of Li. The intensity of her desire in her dreams for all the things she wished for to come true radiated and kept Vala awake for most of the night. Vala didn't know why she was so connected with Sakura and why whenever Sakura felt strongly about something, that she felt it. But Vala saw it all, her life before she ran away, her journeys, her fight with Rulf, the struggle for the safety of her people, everything.
When the dawn broke and Sakura stopped dreaming did Vala get up and start to think. She was for the first time in her many thousand years of age - confused. She made her way down the staircase that wove around the forest tree and when her bare foot touched the ground, she looked up at the trees above her and watch the sunlight filter in through the leaves of the trees.
She padded towards the nearest tree and lifted her skirts as she started to climb another staircase. She nodded in greeting to Taya and some others and the huge wooden doors opened as she approached. She sat down beside Sakura as she continued to sleep and watched curious as Sakura started to wake.
Sakura yawned widely and blinked a couple of times before she noticed that Vala was there. She rubbed sleep from her eyes and sat up nodding in greeting to Vala.
" Sakura why do you go to so much trouble for so many a number of people? " Vala asked.
" Huh… what? " Sakura asked sleepily.
" I saw your dreams last night. I couldn't block them from my mind. It was like all my barriers were being forced to stay open. I admit that my kind are very 'uneducated' in the ways of mortals, but seeing so much of what you feel and how you think has totally baffled me. It is beyond my comprehension. Why do you do what you do for so many? "
" They're my people. " Sakura replied. " Just like the Mar are yours. You take care of them and watch over them, make sure that they are safe and are happy. It's no different from what I do. We may go about different ways, but the meaning's the same. I travel so far and try so hard, not to please my people, but to keep them safe, make them happy. "
Vala looked at her. " It strange. " she began. " That I have seen the creation of the lands, the rise and fall of sea, the beginning and end of the our people, seen the rise of human kind and yet I do not know about your philosophy. So much I have seen, but yet so little I know. "
" How old are you exactly? " Sakura asked feeling a little eerie.
" I am exactly twenty thousand, six hundred and seventeen. "
Sakura's eyes widened.
" Apart from the children that have been recently born a few hundred years ago, I'm the youngest of my kin. "
" Right. " Sakura replied slowly getting over her shock.
Vala laughed. " I have startled you again. In your terms, I would be no older yourself. "
" That's comforting. I'll keep that in mind. " Sakura replied getting out of bed.
Vala smiled. " There's a reason I came to you this morning. " she said. " The cave that you are looking for. The one that is said to help you, the one the strange creatures are leading you to? It's on this island isn't it? "
" Hai. " Sakura replied. " But Kero doesn't know the password and we have no hope of figuring it out. We were just going to see what happened when we got there. "
" I can show you. " Vala said making Sakura look up. " I know where it is. We still owe you for all that you have shown and taught me. "
" Vala. " Sakura began, but Vala shook her head.
" No Sakura. This is our way; to refuse is to call for war. And I know you don't want that. So please just let us show you how grateful we are. "
--
Sakura stared at her image in the huge crystal mirror in front of her. " Remind me to never let you show me how grateful you people can be. This is too much Vala. " Sakura said as she stared at her reflection once again.
Sakura's hair had been brushed until it gleamed. Taya and a few others had added soft curls to her hair by using their talents. A bright green feather was tied into Sakura's hair above her right ear like Vala, showing that she was of importance. She had a circlet around her head that had a tiny star on it like the one of her pendant. She wore a light emerald green dress, that had spaghetti straps and that went down into fairy skirts and trailed behind her.
She wore her pendant and had a thin golden anklet on her left ankle. Her feet were also bare. Under her arms where the spaghetti straps met the material of the dress, were connected Celtic sleeves that had bands at her elbows. Her eyes were dusted with a faint dusting of glittery dust and that made her eyes more enchanting. Sakura absolutely sparkled when they were done.
" Sakura you are a princess and in our world this is how you would look. "
" Wow. Vala you can come decorate my kingdom any day. I will hate to leave this place. Nothing will compare to it all when I go back home. I wish I could take it all back with me. It's so beautiful as are its people. "
Vala took her hands and met her gaze. " Sakura no matter you go or what you do, the hearts of the people of Marise will always be inside of you. You are apart of us as we are you. Never forget that. Now come, I'll will take you to the place you most desire to go. "
--
Sakura and Vala along with Talar, Vitani and Drysi stopped in front of a dark opening.
" This was home to the Dwarves. They were our friends to begin with, but then their hearts turned black with malice and greed. They turned from us and in turn, we turned from them. We went our separate ways and we watched as they became a plague. They say that even in death their souls continue to guard their treasure even after all this time.
" Watch your back Sakura when and if you enter. Only a Mar queen can allow you admittance here but none but a few know that. We do not do it readily or often for the danger those who enter are in. The creatures the dwarves have become love greed of man. I warn you Sakura. You are putting your life in danger if I allow you to enter. "
.
Vala raised her hand and patterns formed on the door.
" What is it? "
" It is Dwarvish. It is asking for a password. " Vala said as the light faded.
" Do you know it? " Sakura asked in trepidation.
" Yes, all queens know the password. We are the guardians of the gate you see. We prevent what lies within to get out. " she turned from the door and spoke over her shoulder. " I meant to tell you earlier. Delia and Arwel have been secretly leading your friends toward Marise. They should be here anytime soon. "
Sakura stopped frozen in her tracks and looked at her, emerald eyes wide with hope.
" You trust them? To see your home and all I mean. "
" I trust you Sakura, and I know that you have kind friends like you. "
Sakura glowed and then a dark thought made her heart sad.
If only Li was with them.
--
Another part of the island
Waves washed up into a little cove and over a weakened body. Li coughed and then groaned as pain filled his body and mind. He crawled up onto his knees and cursed as the waves came flooding past him and knocked him back down onto the sand. He got back up again and managed to summon his strength and stand up.
He swayed as the waves came back and cursed again at the lack of his strength. He would kill Sakura for pulling that idiotic stunt. He looked up and out toward the sea, but he couldn't see any ship and his heart cringed at the thought of what might have happened to her.
He thought he heard a noise and stopped and listened carefully, deciphering the different sounds that he could hear. He then heard it - shouting . . . or yelling. He staggered forward up toward the jungle of shrubs and concentrated as he started to get closer to it. When he heard the word ' Kero ' clear as day, his heart leapt. He hurried on through the bushes until he came across Madison, Meilin and all the others.
As one, they all turned to look at his swaying form with cuts and scratches everywhere and cried out when he landed flat in the dirt at their feet. Meilin rushed to aid him, but stopped when she saw the dark eyes that were in the bushes watching them intently.
--
Sakura was walking back with Vala and was too busy looking around to see Vala pause for a second as she heard Talar send out a message to her. Now only Vala could communicate telepathically, but that didn't stop the other Mar from saying things in their heads because they knew that Vala would pick it up.
Vala we have found another one. This one is severely injured. The small group seem to know him and vouch for him.
I see Talar. Escort them here. Take the injured to the room beside Sakura's.
Vala turned to Sakura. " We must hurry if we want to greet your friends upon their arrival. "
Sakura gasped. " How'd you kn - Oh I forgot. . . telepathy. " Sakura replied smiling.
Vala smiled and they continued walking.
When they arrived they were informed that they had indeed arrived and were being attended to as Vala had ordered. The boy was up in the room Vala had stated and was waiting for her. Vala turned to Sakura.
" You are tired, why not go rest a while. Taya will wake you when it is dinner time. "
Sakura nodded and even though she was dying to see Madison and the others, she was tired. . .
Vala ran her fingertip down Li's forehead, down the bridge of his nose and down his chin as she read into his mind. She had healed him long ago, but he still refused to wake, such was his exhaustion. She smiled as she delved deep into his thoughts about Sakura. She smiled as she read into everything, she knew that she shouldn't, but such was his mind in turmoil and confusion that it intrigued her as to why this simple human would go to such lengths to keep from the world what was in his heart. She was intrigued greatly by the puzzles and mazes in this boy. She wondered why anyone would want to keep so much to themselves?
He started to stir and he opened his eyes and came face to face with two huge eyes staring down at him and he cried out and jumped up startled. Vala smile at him and sat back so he could look around him.
" Hello Li. " Vala said.
Li's eyes widened further. He went to open his mouth -
" You are in the kingdom of Mar or Marise people to be exact. I am Vala, queen of the Mar. Two of my people escorted you friends here and are being attended to at this moment. You will notice that you have been healed. " Vala smiled at Li as he felt his face and looked at his hands.
" There is no need to be afraid Li. You are safe here. I know a lot about you for I have looked into your mind. I hope you don't object? "
" Huh? " Li asked confused.
Vala smiled warmly at his confusion. She had been seeing a lot of this emotion of late.
" Would you like me to escort you to your friends? I am sure that they are looking forward to seeing that you are ok. " Li nodded and edged out of the bed cautiously, still looking at the mysterious woman in front of him. Vala laughed musically and lead the way.
Sakura was coming down the many stairs that lead to wear the Mar ate. Taya was in front of her leading her there. She stopped when she saw that Madison and all the others were already there and eating. She grabbed Taya and hid in the shadows behind a tall fern plant.
She noticed that like she, her friends had been bathed and dressed to glorious perfection. She saw the glow on their faces and wondered if she would appear the same to them after all the time that she had spent here among the Mar.
But there was one person that she spotted that made her heart quicken and tears sting her eyes. The same ruffled mess of amber locks was still untamed despite the Mar's attempts to make some sort of amends. He sat with his back to her and she watched him with relief to know that he was alive and so close to her once again.
" What are we doing? " Taya asked muddled.
" Shh. Just listen. " Sakura said. She just wanted a moment to force her tears into submission.
" Explain to me again why Sakura isn't with you. " Madison demanded.
Li prayed for patience. " Look I already told you. She pushed me off the damn railing and that was the last I saw. I was a little too busy trying to save my neck. "
Madison was about to burst into tears. Vala looked at them knowing full well that Sakura was hiding and listening with Taya. " Tell me why you are so troubled and filled with sorrow? " Vala asked already knowing the answer.
" We started out on this journey with this young woman called Sakura and we made it this far with her. To lose her now when we are so close to the finish is a universal loss to us all. " Madison sniffed.
" This journey just doesn't seem the same without Sakura. To think that we started it with her and to come all this way - but - but - "
Everyone looked miserable and it broke her heart. Sakura sighed and stepped out into the mess hall with Taya following closely behind. " And what? " she demanded loudly and watched as they all jerked and whipped around to stare at her. " Leave you to have all the fun without me? You know I bring the danger and excitement. "
Madison's eyes widened before she squealed and ran into Sakura's arms and hugged her dear friend for all she was worth and more. Sakura smiled lovingly at Madison and then at everyone that was staring at her. Li gaped stunned which made her giggle joyously. It was a pity that Sakura didn't share in Vala's telepathic abilities. The Elf in question smiled mischievously as she read the thoughts running through the young man's head as he stared at the lovely maiden before him.
--
The moon's rays filtered down through the leaves in the trees and made the circlet on her forehead sparkle along with her pendant. He watched as Julian hugged her warmly and she returned it. She nodded regally to Eriol, Kero and Suppi before Meilin hugged her tightest of all.
" If you're going to be a baka again do you mind giving us some warning next time? "
Sakura laughed and Li's heart melted. " I'll try. "
Li drank from the goblet on the table and put it down with a thump. He could barely control his thoughts and he failed to see the enthralled delight on the Elvin Queen's face. Sakura looked up and met Li's gaze and froze. Madison looked from one to the other as did the others as they continued to just stare at each other.
" Why don't I give you the grand tour? " Vala asked meeting each gaze and whispering a command in their minds.
Meilin looked at the two a little peeved. She didn't like that look. Not one bit. Madison, seeing the light in the Vala's gaze rounded everyone up and pushed them after Vala, leaving Li and Sakura alone with a room full of curious Mar.
Sakura blushed and looked down, playing with one of her long sleeves. Li looked away from Sakura and noticed that they were being watched.
" Umm can we go somewhere more - "
" Why not. " Sakura agreed quickly and started to walk away, Li following her.
She led him a crystal pool surrounded by trees and flowers. Sakura picked a leaf off one of the trees as Li watched her. She twirled it around in her hands before shooting him a shielded glance.
" I'm glad that you're ok. " Sakura said softly. " I prayed that you would make it safely as possible. "
" Exactly where does sending me to my near death come under the heading 'safe'? "
Sakura turned around, the wind playing with her hair. " There was no other choice Li. "
Li came to stand in front of her and looked down at her. " Do you know the risk you took? "
Sakura nodded, looking away. " Li we were nearing the island what else could I do? If we both couldn't have made it here, I at least wanted one of us to get there. . . here. "
Li stared down at her hiding his expression. How could he feel so much for one tiny slip of a girl? How could he feel ashamed that her heart was three times the size of his? She was so loving and giving and he had none of the traits that she possessed. But yet, he wanted her like he had never wanted before. Sakura looked away again and turned away from him and started to walk back and forth, her skirts blowing in the gentle breeze.
" How did you make it out off that ship anyway? " Li asked from behind her.
Sakura looked up and met his gaze. " I fought like a hellcat, how else do you expect me to be here? " she smiled sadly, remembering.
Li faintly smiled as she came to stand before him looking at him with soft sad eyes. Before Li knew what she intended, she lent her forehead against his chest and wrapped her arms around him.
" Oh Li. " she sighed. " I just get so tired sometimes that it hurts to be awake. I'm sick of everything being so hard. "
Li placed his hands guardedly on her waist and rested his cheek on top of her head. Was he allowed to do this? To a queen unmarried?
Yes… whispered through his mind and he mentally jerked surprised.
" Why can't one thing in my life be easy for once? "
" That's what you get for being a royal pain for most of your life. " he replied absentmindedly.
Sakura pulled away and glared at him indignantly. " Don't tease please. " Sakura's shoulders slumped and Li's focus snapped back to her as he realized how worn out she really was. " I'm being serious. "
Li studied her. " Sakura - " he began but Madison calling out to them caught their attention.
" We'd better go. " Sakura said sorrowfully and started to walk away. Li sighed and followed after her.
--
" What are you doing out here all alone? " Julian asked as he found Sakura sitting by herself on one of the balconies up on the stone wall. The wind whipped at her hair and they listened as the leaves above them rustled.
Sakura sighed. " Just thinking. " she replied as Julian came to sit next to her.
Li, who had been looking for Sakura hid in the shadows when he saw them as they started to talk.
" What's troubling you? " Julian asked as he looked at her.
Sakura hugged her knees closer to her to fight the chill in the air. " I don't know. I really don't. " Sakura replied miserably.
Julian nudged her. " Sakura I wouldn't be your brother's best friend if I didn't look out for you and know when you're upset. "
Sakura smiled at him faintly and didn't say anything for a minute. " I was telling Li earlier about how I get so tired that it hurts to stay awake. I feel as all the strength in the world couldn't revived me. It's just so hard Julian to keep on fighting all the time. And it makes it even worse to know that Rulf is still alive and well and if after more than ever.
" When will it be enough Julian? When can I just be Sakura and not have everyone depending on me? When will I have the opportunity to depend on someone else? "
Julian studied her and inside within the shadows, Li listened silently.
" I thought once that if I ditched the title, the gowns, the jewels and became someone else, I could escape it all, but I was wrong. The same problems followed me everywhere I went. I'm just tired Julian, I really am. I've been thinking . . . maybe it's about time that I found someone that can help me share my burdens. "
Li stopped breathing and listened intently.
" I mean marriage can't be all that bad right? I have a what, 100-1 chance of finding someone that I'll be content with and that will be content with me in return. I mean I don't expect to marry for love anymore, for I've learnt that love brings nothing but pain. In this world there is no such thing as true love, but alliances, they exist. Father will be happy with me for deciding this far. Tori will be fussy as a mother hen and will give me the third degree, but I need someone that's going to be able to know me and be able to fully understand what I want and need. "
" And you've decided all this by just sitting here? " Julian asked softly.
Sakura looked up at the sky that shone through the gaps in the trees. " I mean I am 18 Julian, if I don't marry soon . . . It'll be too late. "
Julian sighed and looked up at the sky. " Who would have guessed that the little squirt has grown up and thinking of marriage. "
Sakura playfully slapped him on the arm. " I think very kindly of you Julian as my friend and protector, but that was very uncalled for. " Julian laughed and Sakura's spirits were somewhat restored, but in her heart she knew what her next mission was when she returned back home.
Li stepped out of the shadows and headed back down the hall. His mind was racing and he leant against the wall in darkness when it all came too much to bear.
" Why do you run when you wish to stay? " came Vala's voice beside him.
Li looked around but didn't see anyone. He by chance looked at the stone wall and stepped back as Vala materialized out of the wall and looked at him. " What do you mean? " Li demanded.
" I have seen in your mind the turmoil that you put yourself through. You regard her with the highest degree, but yet you torture yourself by hiding in the shadows. You know that she is suffering but yet you continue to let her do so and yet you get so profoundly angry and jealous when someone else comforts her. This I do not understand why you do so?
" You care for her, but yet you continue to push her away. You keep your barriers in place so no one, not even yourself can approach them. You let yourself get hurt once because of the truth did you not? But that Li is what life is all about. "
Li stared at her in total silence.
" You forgave her on the ship when she took the veil of hurt and distrust from you eyes, but now even more than ever you are guarded once again around her. Is it because you realize that she is willing to give her life for you that you run again? "
Li didn't say a word.
" Even now, she talks of marriage to another and your heart cramps painfully when she mentions it, but you swallow what you think and feel and just walk away. If you want something so badly Li then you must go for it. Perhaps Sakura feels the same way as you do. Maybe she is waiting for you to make the first move. I may not know much of the mortal race, but love is a thing that has been since our time and we know of the gift it can be and also the curse. I know what has transpired between you from the start, for you showed to me when you slept. "
Li coloured brightly as he knew what she was talking about.
" One day Li she will be another's and she will belong totally and solely to him alone, no other. Can you let yourself live with that knowledge that she belongs to someone else? "
Li glowered at her. Vala nodded to him and disappeared as silently as she had come.
Li thumped the wall with his fist in frustration and walked back to his room that he had been asleep in hours before. Nothing was what it was supposed to be anymore. His life, it would seem, was no longer peaceful.
She had seen to that…
TBC
--
I'm sorry that this is taking me so long to upload and I hope you can forgive me and have a little patience. I want to thank all those who have reviewed and who will review in the future. If you have an questions or queries feel free to send me a note. Also here is a little info on two of the main characters of this chapter.
Talar has deep brown eyes and brown hair that was cut to below her jaw. She wears a white feather in her hair on the left side. Unlike Vala she wears leather gauntlets on both wrists is was dressed as a fighter.
Vala as the queen is gifted in the arts of healing and a little power. Anything she touches that is hurt will be healed instantly. She has the gift of telepathy and can read minds. She is kind and is a gentle spirit.