Chapter 3
The camp was quiet, with only the odd sentry on watch or when it could be seen, guarding a tent. Flames from the torches and dotting braziers were the only light to illuminate the way. The moon up above was hidden; the perpetual dark cloud was a constant even at night. It was the perfect setting for intruders to walk freely. The shadows moved between the tents and other structures giving them invisibility as they walked along. The camp was huge, many race both of the Few and True lineage was united here under Her flag. The shadows moved to the outer rim, stopping behind a large construct they paused to collect themselves.
"You know the plan. Plan your diversion and set it up. Whatever you do don't cause too much havoc that the whole camp is up in arms." A deep voice instructed two of the group
With a nod from them both, the majority of the group consisting of five brave souls, left quietly and in seconds disappeared from sight. The two remaining crept backwards, retracing their steps until they found themselves in what appeared to be the living area. They didn't dare move forwards. Stretched out before them may have been tents, but as they found out not all slept in them. On the ground wraiths slept in huddles and occasionally larger creatures like a Nue or as one of the shadows pointed out a Chenoo, also slept underneath the clouded sky. Their plan needed serious redoing. Yet things were about to take a turn for the worse.
They didn't dare make any sounds, the wraiths already were twitching in their sleep and the closest ones to them were of the brawn class. A growl sounded from behind them. Twirling around in a rush they saw a sentry, make a pass by their location. Yet one misjudged their balance. Arms wind milling around they tried to steady themselves, the other was too busy watching the path to notice. Picking up his foot to balance them even more they didn't see the exposed root jutting out. They fell forward in protest, his foot caught under the root his arms splayed out knocking into something, which then fell down in a loud clang scattering the embers to the nearest tent. It certainly resembled something out of a slapstick comedy routine. Helping the other up, they both quietly groaned in dismay. A small fire was beginning to burn the tent; the embers they had knocked over were glowing coals. Their night seemed to have gotten worse.
The fire quickly grew, the orange flames roared high with sparks lighting off. It didn't take long for the call of 'FIRE' to start. And soon enough the fire started to spread, both on tent and creature alike. Burning bodies tumbled and screamed their way out the tent, luckily doused or patted down by the hands on. The shadows were surrounded, they couldn't move with all the activity going on, they were too recognisable. One tent was filled with something that reacted strongly with fire. A huge explosion shook the night, the tent and closest creatures near it were blown away. It was now officially havoc. With shouts and screams on par with the sounds of roaring flames, it seemed the entire camp had awakened. A man jogged through ensuing orders in what little order was left. The shadows decided that this was now an opportunity to make a fast getaway. They turned around and decided to go back the way they had come. Low growls were heard then a creature appeared blocking their way. Before they realised it, the creature had shifted into a huge bear like monster, barrelling towards them blasting them back into the confusion behind. Scrambling to their feet avoiding the shifter they looked around. Both parties were stunned by the other. The light revealed who the shadows were. The redhead grabbed his partners hands, waved with a cheeky grin before sprinting off with the other not far behind.
"Hunt them down!" a commanding voice screeched, his voice barely heard over the ensuing madness
Three brawn class wraiths heard his cry; their muscles straining against the leathery black peeling skin, growled their pleasure and stomped off. The sheer size of the wraiths made up for their lack of speed, not to mention their claws and fangs could tear easily into flesh if you happened to be on the receiving end. The wraiths moved slowly through the chaos, their senses picking up the scent of the intruders. A huge bellow roared from all three, making the frantic men of their own army jump in fear, without another second to spare they stormed off. The hunt had begun.
"Well that went well" a voice spoke in spurts as they ran
"What?! That was not part of the plan!" another voice breathlessly replied
The two runners ran from the turmoil of behind, even if they didn't mean to cause such havoc. Ducking and swerving as they ran, they tried to confuse anyone that dared to follow. A blur of red and silver was all that was seen. A thundering roar quickly followed by two more, made them come to a complete stop. Trying to steady their hearts and quiet their ragged breathing, they waited for the creatures to catch up. It was after all part of the original plan. Shizuma looked to see where they were, they were barely into the woods and their position could be spotted easily. 'Those roars sounded a little familiar. Why oh why did this have to happen? Where did it all go so wrong?' Kei sensed something hurtling towards them, bringing a shield of fire around the two, as a moment later a huge boulder struck it hard shattering into pieces.
"Wraith! You've fought them before Shizuma, watch yourself. There's more than one." Kei warned her as the creatures emerged
The young woman created fire in her hands, waiting to see her opponent before she formed anything, as she focused her gaze on a wraith that singled her out. Three wraiths in total, one stayed back as the other stalked off towards Kei. The wraith strolled towards her, its heavy footsteps made the earth tremble in protest. Shizuma eyed the large muscles and elongated fangs and couldn't help but gulp. One thing she knew for certain was that speed was definitely on her side.
Not waiting for them to make the first move Shizuma struck. Forming spears from her fire she launched them, only managing to graze it. The wraith sped up as it pounced. Shizuma rolled to the side; her flames encircled her body, burning the wraith as it passed overhead. A menacing rumble from its chest and the young woman knew it was getting angry. The creature wasted no time in attacking, delivering a swipe with its claws full-out, Shizuma dodged to the size only to be thrown backwards as the earth beneath her feet catapulted her back. Shizuma was getting very angry. More fire shards were made, as she threw them at the wraith as it came for her and when it was close enough, she quickly formed a fire tunnel as it blasted the wraith away from her. A howl of pain was all she heard and as she looked closer at her target, she understood why. The wraiths skin was blistered and burnt, the claws were twitching sporadically and white foam escaped from its mouth. Shizuma was a little surprised to hear a low growl to come from the dying wraith as she edged close, veering away from the sharp pointy claws. Even as she looked at the creature she felt compassion at its position. Swiftly she drew flames together into a sword and drove it deep into the heart, killing it quick and ending its pain. The fight was still going on.
Shizuma spun to find Kei, who was doing fine as he slew his wraith in a barrage of flame spears. Shizuma felt the earth violently shake beneath her, struggling to stay upright she looked towards the last wraith. Her partner stumbled and slid in her direction, she daren't move as she barely could hold herself up. The trembling stopped. Shizuma stared at the wraith before them, it didn't move just stared at them with its obsidian eyes. Kei decided to act, lobbing fireballs one after the other in its direction. Bursts of fire exploded and nothing was to be seen. When the dust settled down the two Mythicals gasped. The wraith was not hurt it still stood and not a scratch on it. Shizuma looked closer noticing that whilst its build was huge, it seemed to be agile than the other two not to mention its elemental attacks far succeeded what she knew.
"We're going to have to try a different approach with this one" Kei whispered softly to her
"Have anything in mind?"
"Nope" Kei honestly told her which obviously didn't go down too well
Before Shizuma could strangle him, Kei cautiously stalked to the left whilst Shizuma followed his lead and went to the right. The wraith remained where it was as its eyes flickered between the two. They attacked in sync with Kei attacking with pure white flames, the wraith was quickly swallowed up in the fire yet seconds later it lunged out, running straight towards Shizuma. It leaped. With her flames still encircling her hands she had no time for a barrier, she dived to the side barely escaping the sharp claws. She was the first to hit the ground hard, yet it gave her time to put her shield up, as a howl of pain she saw the wraith limp back from her. Kneeling low Shizuma watched the creature carefully; however the wraith had other problems, the problem being that Kei was getting ready to strike.
Kei shot at it with white flames like lightning hurtling fast, yet the wraith stamped its paw right on the ground as a wall of dirt blocked its way. Shizuma's eyes grew to dinner plates as she watched what he did next. Distracted by the lightning the wraith lost track of the phoenix. A cry from above made it lean back on its haunches and watched a hurtling comet come straight at it. A huge earthquake shook the ground, making Shizuma lose all control on her shield as she flattened herself against the ground. The tremors slowly faded and the dust still thick in the air. Scrambling to her feet she carefully crept forwards, her eyes seeing the signs of newly formed crater. She had to admit to herself that the size was quite impressive. Shizuma quickly found her partner, a bit dazed and covered with muck but otherwise unhurt as she hurriedly made her way over.
Shizuma stretched out her hand to Kei, who gladly took it with a huge smile on his face. Shizuma wore her own small smile, her eyes glittered with anger but the boy didn't notice, as he was too busy dusting himself off and quite frankly too chuffed with himself. The phoenix would learn soon enough. As he turned towards Shizuma he got quite a shock as a hard smack upside his head jolted him out of his jubilation.
"What was that for?" as he rubbed his head
"Don't you ever do anything like that again!" Shizuma sharply told him as she clenched her hands tightly to her sides.
Kei took another look at his new sister, seeing past her anger to her fear. Realising that, he felt a little ashamed.
"I'm sorry for scaring you" Kei apologised
Shizuma took deep breaths as she stamped down on her anger "I'm sorry too, I didn't mean to shout. I'm not used to all this. Please just be careful"
The two fire wielders gave a warm smile the subject now dropped. Cries were heard in the distant. Kei motioned Shizuma to stay as he carefully went to scout. All too soon he was back, jerking his head towards the forest as they both started to jog.
"Well we got the camps attention. Let's lead them on a merry chase in the woods. The others need more time." Kei explained and she nodded in return
They had just taken a few steps into the darkened woods as shouts and growls were heard. They were seen and now they were being hunted. A fair-sized party was on their trail, with a grin full of mischief Kei signalled to Shizuma to follow, as he sped off in a red blur with a silver streak not far behind. The prey followed as best they could. The hunters were in control now.
"They must've been some kind of ghosts to disappear like that" one of the flustered followers muttered
"Shut it you numbskull. Aint no such things as ghosts" as he bopped the unfortunate one hard on the head
"Must have gone this way." The troupe plodded quickly off leaving their unfortunate comrade lying where he fell.
In amongst the darkness, hidden by the lush surroundings of foliage, two pairs of eyes watched on amusedly waiting for an all clear to move. The heavy footfalls faded into the night and the hidden now emerged.
"I hope all of Her men are that dumb" a musical voice filled with hidden mirth spoke
"Hah! You'd be surprised Shizuma. They haven't changed the standards since I last fought them. Meaning this war should be over all the sooner." Kei said clapping his hands together in relish
Shizuma flicked an errant strand of silver hair back over her shoulders as she scanned the area. Getting surprised this close to the other army was certainly not on her to-do list. 'Well it went rather well. Well at least at first. If Kei hadn't knocked over that brazier, which then fell on a tent filled with soldiers which then alerted the whole camp. By fire! How can anyone be that clumsy…Nagisa. Those two are definitely related.' A small whimsical smile soon tugged on her lips. Kei, who was done with his quick trip around their little base, noticed that his dear friend was lost in thought, about to jolt her back until a rustle behind him caught his attention. Remaining stock-still to not give anything away, he spared Shizuma a quick look resulting in a grimace. The silver-haired girl was facing the other way and had not heard anything wrong. His hands started to glow, until a darkened flame covered them quickly distinguishing the light to all but him. Shizuma caught the tell-tale spark of phoenix fire out the corner of her eye before a shiver crawled over her skin. Her ears picked up an unusual sound and finally realised her predicament. Twirling around she saw a huge shape behind Kei, who in turn was arming himself with cold fire as he quickly rolled over towards her, rising quickly to stand by her side.
"Not all of us are easy to fool. Let us see if you live up to your races expectations." The voice growled out with undisguised relish
"What is that?" Shizuma whispered to Kei her voice trembling a little
"It's a manticore. Be careful of his tail the stings are deadly." Kei replied as he moved a little apart.
Shizuma never took her eyes off the creature. Being introduced to this new world she saw many a new race, but nothing really prepared her when she faced off something new and apparently something as deadly as this one. The manticore was quite a sight. It had the body of a lion, with the face and ears of a man yet the mouth was filled with sharp teeth. Even so the tail was the most impressive, as it swished Shizuma could see the huge spines which were dotted on its tail. Not a pretty sight.
The manticore struck before they had time to prepare. Flicking its tail the spines shot off towards them. No time for a defence the two phoenixes' dodged them as best they could. Shizuma got a shock as she turned to face the beast when she was struck hard, bowling her far away. Winded and wincing she raised her head to see it charging at her once more. Flames shot out but it never slowed down. Too scared she closed her eyes tight waiting for the attack. A cry rang out then a roar of pain. Shizuma opened her eyes to see Kei and the manticore circling one another, the latter having a burn on its left side whilst Kei looked ruffled. He formed his fire like whips so they snaked along the ground, flicking them at the beast when he got too close. Shizuma knew it could only go on for so long, thinking rapidly on what she could do to help. Her mind raced away with plans, but her yellow gold flecked eyes were hypnotized with the swishing of the spine tail. It clicked together. Moving quietly she positioned herself behind her foe, bringing forth a blade of cold fire. If Kei had seen her he gave no sign. The tail even had the audacity to swish its way out of reach every time she tried to grab it. 'Damn tail keep still' Once more it came within reach. Swiping her sword on the tail Shizuma missed her chance to sever it; luckily she managed to shear off the poisonous barbs. Crawling away quickly she stood up to see the damage. The manticore was howling in pain, as it cradled its tail protectively in its arms.
Kei hesitated as he looked at the anguished creature before him, he knew the spines would grow back, but even to him killing anything always disturbed him. Even it was war. The hesitation was all the manticore needed. Its eyes turned manic as it charged them, ripping the earth into clumps beneath their feet. Kei had no choice as Shizuma sadly watched on. The enraged beast was nearly on them, its red fur moved ironically like flames. Shizuma stood back behind Kei, as he drew together a vortex of white flames. The beast leapt and Kei fired. Caught up in the force the beast was covered in the pure flames, yells of pain as it was swallowed whole the force pushing them away. Shizuma watched on for a while before turning her head away. The sight before her was painful. Gradually the howls died down though the flames still burned. Kei slung his arm around Shizuma comforting her as best he could when a huge explosion rocked the sky. Both pairs of eyes looked ahead. Their mission was now complete.
"Come on Shizuma. Time to go on home" Kei softly spoke to her pulling her away from both sights, leading her home away from the misery of war.
The next day was warm and bright. Last night's escapades did little to the two youths as they made their way down to the woods. A few bruises and aches was all they had to show for what they accomplished. Not to mention a talk down from the mission leader about how dangerous they went about it. When Shizuma mentioned the words 'Kei' and 'accidentally', did he finally realise what had really gone on. Probably taking years off of his life in the process. Enjoying their free time, Shizuma and Kei walked into the woods following the trail beneath. They had walked it a few times before and soon they came to a small idyllic clearing. Shizuma sat on an overturned log, which turned out to be quite comfortable considering the lumps and bumps, her eyes and attention were focused on her surroundings. The comings and goings of the lithe and nimble people around her were ignored as she focused more on the beautiful open clearing. The trees grew to an impressive size, the sun barely filtered in through the thick overgrowth, for gentle rays twinkled below. The lack of sunlight or sky didn't dampen or belittle the woodland atmosphere; instead it enhanced the beauty more so. Mid way up the trees, Shizuma noticed a delicate yet sturdy lookout. Looking closer she could barely see the two elven folk standing watch. Breathing out a small sigh Shizuma brought her attention back on to her brother, whose gaze was focused across the clearing.
"Who are we meeting again Kei?"
"Some friends of ours. Maybe elven magic can help us, since it differs to the magic used by other races. If Nagisa… she could explain it better"
Shizuma leant her head against his shoulder "I wish it to Kei. Hopefully they can help us."
"Meira could give us a clue at least." Kei laid his own head atop of his sisters in comfort
Shizuma had met Nagisa's friends just days after her bonding. One she had still yet to meet, but the other two she had she quickly grew fond of. The first to arrive was Meira, a young Elf. Her tall nimble frame gracefully walked towards them, clothed in a tunic of emerald-green and leggings of rich brown with tanned boots to match. Her long blond hair was pulled back in a braid, framing her angular face and pointy ears, with her eyes the colour of almonds. Shizuma noticed her friend came armed even in her woodland sanctuary, her bow held loosely in her hand with her quiver resting on her back. As soon as she came upon them Kei jumped up to give her a warm hug which Shizuma gladly followed. Gesturing her to sit with them they didn't have to wait long before their next member to arrive.
Sounds of hooves were heard as they trotted near and soon he emerged in the small clearing. Ion was still a little shocking to Shizuma; she was used to Centaurs by now but still having the top half male with the lower of a horse still sent her reeling. Ion had shoulder length brown hair with a braided strap to keep it from going into his eyes. He was bare-chested with the only adornment being his sword that was strapped to his back. Once more greetings were made all-round as they seated themselves on the grass.
"Is she not coming?" Ion looked at Kei
"I'm not sure. She said she would try" Kei shrugged his shoulders as Ion shook his head
"Last night I'm told was a huge success. The leader of which, couldn't help but praise the decoys. Spectacular I think the word he used" Meira spoke looking at the two before her "You wouldn't happen to know who they were would you?"
Kei cleared his throat as Shizuma heaved a sigh. It would have been spectacular too if anything they did that night was planned.
"Let me guess. None of that was meant to happen." Ion laughed at their expressions
"It all worked out in the end" Kei mumbled out bringing all of them to laughter
After a little teasing and joking the group quieted down, the sounds of the woods drifted to their ears. Shizuma sensed the mood change and wanted no part in what was to come. Their talks before hadn't led to anything substantial and each failure was beginning to chip away any last hope she still had left.
"Any luck?" Meira asked with a hopeful look
"I'm sorry. There was nothing to go on." Kei said as he hung his head
Ion clasped his shoulder in sympathy. The group realised, in that moment that Kei was very good at putting on a mask. He hid his own emotions well as he comforted others and being strong, never letting anyone see the raw pain underneath. The Etoile truly saw the bond that her Nagisa and he shared and was stunned. The group fell silent in a moment of respect. The rustle of the trees and the singing of birds were the only sounds to be heard. A twig snapped. Meira swiveled her head in the direction it came from, alerting the others as she did so. The four became still. The birds had stopped singing. Ion fingered the hilt of his sword as Meira touched her bow. Another twig snapped this time closer than before. Elf and centaur stood up in a flash, the two siblings quickly followed. Armed and ready they faced the wooded patch. As soon as the bushes surrounding the clearing rustled, Meira let loose an arrow notching another one immediately. Quiet followed after the firing, as the four stood still and tense waiting for any other sounds of movement.
"You did not just shoot at me!" Someone yelled out startling them
Meira paled at the sound of the voice. It was a familiar yet unexpected voice. A small groan came from Ion as he once more sat himself down, ignoring the approaching trouble. Shizuma looked to the others, wondering what to do. Kei groaned as he steeled himself, ready to face whoever was coming through the bushes. 'Well whoever it is certainly has a reputation. Meira looks as pale as a ghost, Ion is completely ignoring it altogether and Kei…well he looks resigned to the fact of their visit. This should be fun. Hopefully.' Shizuma seated herself back on the log, watching Kei and her new friends closely, with the bushes rustling frantically across the clearing. A body soon emerged.
Shizuma watched with interest at the oncoming individual. To her it seems that whoever it was invoked numerous responses among her friends. All was soon made clear. A young woman with black dishevelled hair and what Shizuma could tell purple eyes with reptilian pupils. She remained quiet as she watched the angry woman storm over towards them. Amusingly she noticed Meira's attitude alongside the newcomers, apparently there was some history between them. The elf wasn't the only one, Ion and Kei knew her to an extent as she saw, but Meira seemed to be the most familiar. The young woman stopped a few steps away, her eyes burning as her hand rose holding firmly in it was an elven arrow. The elf looked from the arrow, to the girl with a quick glance to Kei, who shrugged helplessly. Meira was on her own.
"Greetings Akemi, you're late as usual. Is that the arrow I dropped earlier? Thank you for retrieving it for me." Meira tried an innocent act, but unfortunately it wasn't working
"Oh not a problem Meira. Happy to help" her voice replied dripped in sarcasm
"What took you so long?" Ion butted as Akemi turned to face him
"My grandfather wanted an update on what I'd learned" Akemi told them as she seated herself down in between elf and centaur, absently twirling the arrow in her hand.
Kei looked at Shizuma shrugged his shoulders then turned to the others, no doubt about to question on what she had found until he saw Akemi stare straight at Shizuma. Everyone looked between the two. Shizuma felt a little intimidated by the stare, which was a little unusual, however her eyes were very familiar.
"Ermm…Akemi you haven't really been introduced." Kei started to say
"You're Nagisa's bonded one. Shizuma Hanazono I take it." Akemi said as she stretched out her hand "I'm Akemi. I've heard many things about you."
"So have I." Shizuma replied as she shook the offered hand "All of it involves mischief and trouble"
"That's me" Akemi smiled like she had just won the jackpot
"Being a pain isn't something to be proud of" Ion prodded her and Akemi turned hostile
Kei and Meira quickly diffused the tension, mainly to keep Akemi from blowing up, as Shizuma watched on in interest. 'That one is surely quick-tempered. I wonder how much of it is real. Her eyes are like Sora's so she's from the dragon race.' Her thoughts were interrupted when Kei was talking to Meira about any help she could offer as the other two looked hopefully on.
"You can't?" Kei said with a slight squeal
"I'm sorry my friend. Her essence is blocked to me now. Whatever has happened to her, you must find her by other means." Meira looked saddened
"This is not good" Ion grumbled
"Chicken could be anywhere. This war on both sides makes it that much harder to search. Have you looked in all her old hideouts?" Akemi asked looking serious
"Mostly. Darian transports me and Shizuma there but it's getting too dangerous with only the two of us. We need more help." Kei spoke softly
"We all need help" Akemi looked to the sky
It was night and a family of phoenixes were quietly having some time alone together. Yasu and Asa sat near the burning fire on a love seat whilst Shizuma and Kei occupied comfy seats opposite them. Their topic naturally gravitated towards the war.
"What's happening back home?" Shizuma asked
"It's chaos." Yasu simply replied
"Reports come through slowly and more often than not are out of date." Asa carried on from her husband "The Dark One's men are wreaking havoc. They target known places of the Few, acting swiftly and brutally nearly always getting away. The squads are stretched thin with their hands already full."
"Can we help at all?" Shizuma looked at her family with a small hint of hope in her eyes
"I'm sorry Shizuma but all help is needed here." Yasu told her
"Attacks come swift and they are increasing. We have no men to spare." Kei murmured
Shizuma kept silent, the news was pretty much what she was expecting. 'Neither side can help the other. The Queen certainly has our backs to the wall. I wonder…'
"Why do they focus their attacks here? Is this place that important?" Shizuma asked aloud
"These halls hold no strategic value to either side, but they are special to us. Not in a magical sense but in the hope it instills in us all"
"Because of the last war mother?" Shizuma asked
"In that war, the dark ones army was finally overpowered on the plains just below, also to add insult she herself was overpowered and captured. These halls became the beacon of light and hope. Apart from that though, peace treaties which have long been honoured have come from these halls, have only added to the rumours." Asa told her with pride
Shizuma gave a brief nod of her head as she heard this. She had read about the Shadow Wars back in Astraea, not to mention an eye-witness account from her beloved. It took her a while to see that events were occurring a little like the last time. However this war seemed to be darker more than ever, with events happening in the shadows more sinister. The stakes higher than any one life. Even if that life happened to be Nagisa's. 'Why does it all come back to Nagisa? Hasn't she been through enough? It seems whenever Nagisa tries to atone for her past, what she thinks she has to atone for, goes horribly wrong. It ends up lying more heavily on her shoulders' A small frown marred her face as her thoughts turned sour. Asa placed her hand on her husband's arm in comfort, receiving a small sad smile in response. Both had seen Shizuma's mood go south, knowing that their daughter featured heavily in them. Kei glanced from one person to the next, not liking the heavy mood one bit.
"Well I say let them come" startling the others "there no smarter than the last time if you ask me."
Yasu spared his son a warm smile knowing exactly what he was trying to do "The joys of youth, to think so highly of one's self to the point of stupidity."
"You call it stupidity, I call it pure luck. I have got a good reputation going, not to mention sis here too, in defeating, causing havoc, scouting and just plain beating the dark ones men up and not getting more than a scratch or a bruise. I say we're doing a pretty good job." Kei said with a wide smirk
"You wouldn't have half the reputation if you weren't that clumsy." Shizuma teased him
"I am not clumsy!" Kei huffily replied but no one in the room believed him "it's all an act to fool the enemy into thinking I'm an easy target."
Asa shook her head at her son's words stifling the laughter that was bubbling inside her, her husband was chuckling himself at the sheer lie that their son just spouted off. It seemed even Shizuma wasn't fooled.
"Really? An act you say?" Shizuma said as Kei nodded his head "I suppose that knocking into the brazier was a part of your act, setting the tent on fire which roused the entire camp too."
Kei looked a little sheepish at that. It wasn't exactly his fault that it had happened. He certainly meant to lead most of the enemy away for the other team to go in, but not in the way it panned out. Certainly not his fault that he tripped on an exposed root and who in their right mind put braziers on the outskirts of camp? About to save his wounded pride a little, his father stepped in.
"Don't try to deny it son. You're as clumsy as your sister, maybe even more so" Yasu said fondly
"I was thinking of that last night. Not as bad as Kei, yet Nagisa had the knack of tripping over nothing." Shizuma smiled in remembrance
"You should hear some of what happened when she was a young girl. The trouble that girl caused." Asa chuckled
"Spark wasn't alone in some of them mother. Akemi was as much to blame"
"Who do you think roped her into them" Asa pointed out earning a few laughs all around
The mood was certainly lighter now, as the family sat around the table. Reminiscing and jokes were easy brought up without the heaviness of before. Shizuma was learning more about her new family as they did so, touched that they treated her so lovingly and accepted her into their fold with no problems. All because of the trust they had in one redheaded girl. 'I can see where Nagisa gets some of her traits from, but I have to wonder where the clumsiness comes from. Both her parents haven't shown any. That reminds me. When my dad gets back from abroad I'll have to introduce him. How can I explain all of this?'
"Where does the time go?" Yasu sighed as he lovingly pulled his wife into his side
"You sound like an old man papa" Kei tried to tease him
"This old man can still wipe the floor with you" Yasu replied flicking a small globe of fire at him.
"Now don't start sparing or flaming at one another" Asa warned them in a warm tone knowing the friendly rivalry her husband and son had going on
"Yes dear."
"Yes mom" both of them obviously knowing who was really in charge of their family.
"There are some people arriving in a few days Shizuma. Please greet them for us at the portal gate." Asa asked kindly with a hint of a knowing smile
"Who are they?"
"You will know them when you see them" she said chuckling at the unsatisfied look on her daughters bonded
Hugs were given to the siblings as they started off to their own rooms in the tunnels. Kei was hazily staring ahead when the silver head looked over. She hated seeing him like this, lost and sad, so she tried to perk him up a bit.
"Kei" bumping his shoulder "Do you know what mom was talking about? The people who arecoming I mean."
"Not a clue." Kei moaned playfully "Usually I'm the first to know, thanks to Darian, but this time she has the lead on me."
"I hope it isn't some of the Council of Few. I'm already depressed as it is."
Sharing a chuckle the two walked with a lighter step until they came to Shizuma's room. After a hug goodnight and Kei disappearing down the corridor, each were wondering what the next few days would bring.
A/N: I hope you enjoyed it. Thanks for your reviews and to those that have followed and favourite this :)