Chapter 6
Something moved in the darkened passages. It was neither wraith nor Orc. They moved too quietly and too swiftly. It didn't belong down there. They stopped and started, ducked and weaved their way along, passing by each of the cells giving a cursory glance inside. It was obvious they were looking for something, or more likely someone. A rattle of chains brought the intruder up sharply, making a mad dash inside an open cell. Peering covertly out of the grate they watched. Two Orc guards stomped their way past, passing by the figures cell they went further down and was lost to sight. They listened to what happened next. A cell door was opened, a short brief scuffle and a clang of a door soon after. What happened next both shocked and elated the hidden watcher. Once more the loud stomping Orcs came into view, between them dragging a young unconscious woman. Her features were hidden by a mop of red hair, when a sharp jostle to move along her face was revealed. A gasp was loosed. An Orc paused. The other had no choice but to stop, leaving their prisoner half lying on the ground.
"Wat is wrong wiv ya?"
"I heard summat."
"Must av been ya stomach grumblin"
"Na it ain't that. Summat else"
"Well I ain't anging bout while ya think of it. The Queen wants this one now, an I don't wanna get her mad" with that said the two once more lifted the body between them and quickly marched off.
The hidden one stayed still, waiting until all sounds ceased before moving back into the passage. Looking left and right and pausing some more certain that the coast was clear. The prowler wasted no time as they jogged down the rows of cells, not bothering with stealth, paying more attention to each cell they passed until they came upon an occupied one. Quickly it moved to the other side of the door, with back pressed against the wall and body still. Inching their way nearer the door, head moved quickly to the grate scanning the occupants then retreating: a male with a black eye and a female looking anxious. It definitely was the right cell. However it certainly made the job a lot more complicated. Voices drifted to them and they managed to separate the two low tones.
"I don't think she can last much longer" a woman's voice said
"I know Alexis. There's not much we can do."
"Any luck on how we can escape this place Timon? Or at least send word for help?"
"None. There is no one occupying the cells along here. She took the last one just the other day."
"Then I hope the spirits send us someone soon." Alexis whispered
The watcher pulled back further down the tunnel, away from the only occupied cell, to sort through what they had just heard. This was not what they had planned for. Time was seriously not on their side. Melting once more into the shadows they moved swiftly and quietly away, leaving no trace that they were there.
An hour had elapsed since the guards had taken the sleeping woman. A long hour filled with tense silence and nervous fidgeting. Any talk was short and terse, their eyes continuously glancing to the cell door in anticipation. In the short time the red-head had been thrown into their cell, even if she didn't wake, the two Mythicals grew to care for her. Now that care was duelling out with anxiety about what the Dark Queen was doing to their already broken friend. Timon was pacing the short cell as Alexis sat and watched, noticing that his attempts at wearing a trail in the stone was proving futile, as Timon was the first to hear the tell-tale signs. The rattling of chains was distinct. He moved near the back of the cell, standing close to Alexis, knowing the routine after the last couple of times. The chains came closer with the familiar footfalls of Orcs stomping their way. Just like the times before they opened the cell cautiously, tossing the young woman into waiting arms before slamming the door closed and plodded away. Nothing had changed for her as Alexis examined her, before she carefully placed the young one in the makeshift cot.
"The girl seems even more drained" Timon finally spoke
Nodding her head Alexis replied "I think she has given up her first attempt to probe her mind for answers. Now she drinks off of her life essence."
The silence was thick. They both knew that time was nearly out for their sleeping friend. Alexis fussed over the girl for a few minutes before finally moving to sit beside her protector, encased safely in his arms they let the silence pull them into a restless doze.
With what little light poking through the grate it was hard to figure out the time of day. The temperature dropped as the Balam and Shaman snuggled closer for warmth, both half asleep with fatigue and worry. The unseeing night brought them few hours of uninterrupted rest bringing no new terrors, but it did bring something else, using the darkened cover and stealth to make it. Timon was dozing as his mind was too alert for sleep when he heard something amiss. His senses dulled he dismissed it quickly letting sleep reclaim him. Cat eyes flew open as his mind finally caught up. Careful not to wake Alexis, who was still fast asleep in his arms, he carefully untangled himself and crept carefully to the door. Timon peered cautiously into the dimly lit hallway. Not a soul stirred. Yet still he knew that something was there. Pulling back from the door he tried to calm himself down. Timon heard it again this time much closer. Once more he scanned the hallways, frantic to find the source. The sound was unusual and out-of-place.
"Who's there?" Timon finally whispered through the grate
There was still silence outside, but the Balam was positive he was right. There was nothing else that could have explained it. Since when were Orcs careful and quiet? Timon patiently waited by the door either for an answer or the lost hope. The former won when a sharp sound of metal rang out. Timon gasped in surprise, now his heart hammering in fear of the guards, his nerves had been badly frayed since his capture. When the second strike was heard he lost it.
"Are you insane?!" He nearly yelled
"Don't you be worryin over them Orcs. Too busy to worry about some prisoners" a gruff deep voice answered
"Forgive me for trust is hard to find down here but who are you and who sent you?" Timon asked trying to find the owner of the voice
"Yup I can see that. That grate of yours won't be any help tryin to find me eitha"
Timon put the deep baritone, the small stature and gruff disposition and the Mythical sprang to mind.
"Apologies for my tone dwarf. It's been too long since I've heard a friendly voice" Timon apologised
"Huh. Be nice to know who we be elpin. And how many you are too" the dwarf asked
"I am Timon and I have two other people in the cell with me, my companion Alexis and another who is ill and sleeps a deep sleep."
Alexis woke up to the sounds of chattering to see Timon pressed firmly to the door talking to someone outside. Quickly moving over to her protector she heard what was going on and smiled.
"Greetings I am Alexis. You have no idea how much it means to us for your help." Alexis spoke softly but clearly
"Greetins to ya. I be Thrain from the clan Cairntracker. Now down to business. We been out scouting on my patrol and we came across this place. Now we been checkin the place from top to bottom an there is a whole lot of bad beasts walkin round. An to top it all he finds you three, one of which needs to get back to the Isle right away."
"The girl?" Timon looked confused as he shared a quick look with Alexis
"Aye" Thrain said with such determination
Alexis ignored Timon's confused looks and hurriedly took over "What can we do to help to get out of this place? The girl needs healing beyond my control here; she is set within a deep sleep and has been for some time."
"Aye he saw her bein dragged off earlier." Thrain thought thinking through all what he had seen that day "The Dark One is moving on. Her lackeys are preparin as we speak. Most ave moved on. We must go and soon. Be ready for when we return"
Nothing more was said as they heard him move away. The two companions tiredly yet elated sat back down in their previous spot. Cuddled back together for warmth they each replayed the dwarfs visit.
"Whatever happens I rather fight on my terms than slowly rot in this cell. At least I'll be taking down a few with me."
"My dear Timon, the time of our departing is not of our choosing. There is still too much work for us here to allow that to be." With that said the cell once more went quiet, only the soft snores could be heard.
It had been a tough few days of preparation for the Astraea Few. After the battle in the woods, they were more insistent on helping out and luckily they were given a task, they had no trouble in rejecting. To help in the search for Nagisa. Soon the Isle knew who they were and not necessarily for their kind, polite and mature manner. Trouble was the word many used coupled with a slight smile and fond expressions. Apart from causing havoc Asa insisted on training for them, which only one protested at. Kei was appointed teacher much to all the girl's delight. Sometimes he wondered why his mother had chosen him, since the girls proved a challenge and not always in a good way. Shizuma spent her days helping and training with her friends, enjoying how she was more involved and needless to say a little more experienced. Yet to get through their training sessions they had all agreed, minus one fairy that teasing their teacher until his face was as red as his hair should wait until after they had finished.
As prepared as they could be in the little time provided the girls were waiting impatiently in the portal room. Each now clad in the same style as Shizuma, the only difference being Yaya's as she wore a combined top and trousers that would expand for her transformation. The other thing about their uniform they had all liked, especially Tamao whose watery eyes betrayed her, was the insignia of a phoenix in flight over a cherry blossom tree in full bloom. Kei and Shizuma had yet to arrive and the girl's nerves were already stretched thin.
"How long are they going to be?" Yaya moaned fidgeting with her collar
"Patience Yaya" Shion told her as her own foot tapped impatiently
"Where exactly are we headed?" Tamao asked
"An old hideout I imagine. Shizuma mentioned searching Queenies old lairs" Miyuki answered
"Occupied or empty" Shion thought as her brain ran through several scenarios
"Does it matter?" Chikaru pointed out "We are looking for one specific person."
"We know that. Sometimes you have to ask one of her minions nicely if they know anything" Yaya retorted
"Are you suggesting what I think you are Yaya?" Tamao asked her friend in disbelief
"Of course not…"
"Don't stoop to their level even if our intentions are good" Miyuki interrupted Yaya looking sternly at her
"Don't over exaggerate her words" Shion defended her junior
The Astraea girls were too busy engrossed in their latest discussion to notice two phoenixes enter and as soon as they did the fairy quickly walked over. Shizuma knew from experience the tone of the room and rolled her eyes. 'Can't they get along for a few hours? Honestly! Probably trying to mask their nerves I know but come on; couldn't they find a nicer way to go about it?' Her musing was interrupted by firecrackers as she spotted Kagome firing them off and Kei looking sternly at the sheepish girls.
"Finished? Good." Kei spoke sternly changing to a more reasonable tone "The location we're scouting is the one I've wanted to search for a while now. It will be, hopefully, deserted now but don't relax your guard and watch each other's backs."
"Where are we going Kei?" Tamao asked
"A hideout. Now let's get you situated" Kei ignored the question and began placing the girls in the correct spot
Shizuma looked intently at her brother knowing he dodged answering. There was something about this place that made him unwillingly divulge anything about it. Crossing her arms over her chest she thought furiously over what it could be. Shizuma suddenly had a thought of what it was as she tried so very hard to remember how to breathe. Her eyes focused on Kei as he came near her, her own nerves much frayed and her heart much bruised her anger came to the front.
"How dare you keep this from me" Shizuma hissed to him keeping her voice low so the others wouldn't hear
"Shizuma?"
"We're going to the place she kept Nagisa captive before aren't we?"
Kei looked a little stunned before he assured her "Shizuma calm down. We are not and I repeat not going there. I would never take you there. That place holds too many ghosts and I would never submit you to that. I…can't…go there."
Shizuma felt her anger leave her as she saw the pain in his eyes and felt terrible for outburst. She pulled him into her arms for a hug both as an apology and support.
"Oi you two. Are we going or not?" Yaya asked
"Yes let's get going" Kei nodded his head
He quickly pulled Shizuma to her spot before going to his own. Kei hummed the verse and the portal room vibrated in response. The light grew brightly swallowing them whole and as suddenly as it started it stopped. The room now stood empty.
Time seemed to move agonizingly slow. Every sound was met with a twitch of anticipation only to fall back into a nervous wait. The 'day' seemed normal enough so far, the Orcs brought them their daily rations with no hint of anything amiss then they left. Nothing suggesting that they were leaving. The two cell mates were fast becoming filled with doubt, their hope lay dangerously low. Timon kept his vigil by the door, his sharpened senses trained on the outside, whilst his beloved stayed watchful of the slumbering woman, sparing a glance here and there for her protector. Nerves frazzled and minds filled with worry and scenarios. The time for their escape couldn't come fast enough.
A torch flickered out. Timon leant against the door tiredly, half asleep from nerves and worry, he missed the first signs. Another torch went out. The hallway grew darker. It was the Shaman that noticed the growing darkness outside the small grate, rising from her position near the red-head she stepped closer to Timon peering outside. A torch blinked out. Alexis jabbed Timon harshly jolting him awake. After sheepishly apologising he quickly caught on to what Alexis was looking excitingly about. The hallway outside was growing dimmer as torch after torch was being extinguished. Their escape was imminent.
"Alexis is the girl ready to be moved?" Timon whispered
Alexis rolled her eyes at his words knowing he was caught up in the moment answered him in her normal tone "Yes. She can be moved, I just wish I was strong enough to carry her. It would free you if any trouble arose."
"I fear that I would be little help in any case Alexis. The time in here has done its damage." Timon spoke in a matter of fact
Outside grew even darker, the two watched on in silence waiting for their chance. It didn't take long, in a matter of minutes the last torch blew out. All was quiet and still. Even the two prisoners held their breaths. Nothing could be seen or heard. So it was a shock when a smooth voice started to talk to them, giving the cell mates an unnecessary heart attack.
"I hope all is ready with you, for I fear we have less time than originally planned."
"Yes all is ready. Who am I speaking to for I cannot see nor do you sound like Thrain" Timon asked cautiously
"I am Ruven of the Dokkalfar; Thrain is my scouting companion and is waiting for us down the way. Please stand back away from the door."
Timon ushered Alexis back careful of where they stepped as they had someone lying on the floor. A spark lit up before a hissing sound was heard. The lock on the door glowed as if it was being heated. And sure enough it was at it turned from a golden hue to white and in seconds the lock was gone. The door was open.
"Come quickly" Ruven hurried them
Timon was in a bit of a daze, he couldn't see their guide or any of his surroundings. Things were certainly in the dark.
"Ruven we need a little light to see. I know you and dwarves do not need it but it would be a great help to us"
In answer to that a globe of black flames appeared lighting up the room as if all the torches had come back to life. It gave them a good look at their rescuer as they hurriedly prepared the girl. Ruven was lithe like the rest of his race and inherited the pointy ears of his people. His skin was as black as night, hair as white as snow and his eyes though black held hints of a lighter colour. His clothes however bore the style and colours of the Isle elves yet his weapons were a long elvish blade and two smaller hunting knifes rather than the familiar bow. It was rare indeed for a Dokkalfar to live among their cousins.
Timon swung the girl onto his shoulder pushing Meira in front they followed their guide as best they could, their steps embarrassingly loud compared to the dark elf. They walked down further deeper into the cells and tunnels. Quietly they walked their way along finding the route strange yet they trusted their rescuer. Ruven kept the cold fire burning holding it up so that they could see and it wasn't blinding his senses too much.
Minutes ticked by and the surroundings gradually changed, the ground underneath seemed to grow steeper and from dirt to worn stone, the walls that lined the paths changed from smooth to carved and no cells were seen. They were definitely making some progress. A little further along Ruven held up his hand to stop, Timon grateful for the chance laid his charge gently down where Alexis quickly made sure of her.
"Why are we stopping? Is everything alright?" Timon spoke softly
"We are waiting for Thrain. He was to scout out the last leg of this tunnel but he doesn't seem to be back yet." Ruven responded keeping his eyes trained ahead
"Thank you for freeing us. You probably had orders and this goes against them, but you have our thanks." Timon gratefully and wholeheartedly said
Ruven turned to face him and a small smile graced his lips "No need to thank us. Anything to put her down a peg or two is worthwhile."
Alexis had finished fussing and walked over to the two men sidling up to her protector's side she listened as they talked about what lay ahead and what to expect. None of it sounded too pleasing, as it gave her unnecessary images. So when Ruven twirled to face the tunnel Alexis gave a huge sigh of relief. Timon braced himself, however when he saw the relaxed posture of his friend he knew it could only be one person.
"Thrain you are late." Ruven admonished the small figure as it came into the light
"Aye an ya would be as well when ya see all them beasts prowlin the grounds." Thrain growled
"Trouble?" Ruven asked ignoring his friends tone
"Who ya be talkin to? I aint no dwarfling to be makin mistakes Elf! The way is clear." Thrain finished with puffing out his chest only to receive a small smile from Ruven.
Timon watched the two friends speak; obvious that they had been partnered together countless times before. He noticed Alexis had a small smile and a glint in her eyes as she watched the mismatched duo and it was a welcome sight for he had missed that sparkle.
"We best 'urry up. I fear we may ave less time than we oped." Thrain told them all
Without another word Timon bent over and shouldered the girl once more, however this time Ruven brought up the rear as they started down the tunnel trying to be as quiet as they could.
The Dark Queen dressed as always in black, was eyeing her manic filled estate in a well-furnished room on the top most floor of the large picturesque house. It was usual for her to retreat here, her minions knew her well enough not to disturb her unless it was urgent. Her eyes were meticulously scanning every detail of her followers, from her wraith to the Few all of whom were hurriedly readying for their departure. Her plans were falling into place, her power was growing and soon she would have it all. A shout from below caused her to glance down, noticing instantly what it was about. They had finished. 'Finally everything is set. It will certainly be strange to go back to the Isle, but I won't be defeated. Not again. I was foolish before, but not this time. I have their hope in my grasp. Which reminds me…'
A brief knock on the door made her turn to face it, her back lightly resting against the window sill. Kaori used her magic to find out who her guest was, reaching out she felt the familiar presence of one of her trustworthy protégés, bidding him enter she watched as he walked in and knelt at her feet before rising and standing still. Kaori looked him over and noticed Taiki was as ever his usual untidy self. Taiki had messy light brown hair which always happened to fall into his pale green reptilian eyes. A muscular body which strained at his t-shirt and scars crisscrossed from what little skin could be seen. It must be said that she had never had a more ruthless merciless follower before.
"Taiki what brings you here?" Kaori turned her head slightly to look back out the window once more
"My Lady all is set for you to leave. I thought to bring you the news myself" Taiki told her plainly "Any orders you want me to pass on?"
The Queen grew silent for a moment pondering on what she should do "Send the majority off to the Isle, the ones we hold back will be sent to reinforce those who remain."
"It will be as you wish" Taiki bowed low before quickly departing, leaving the room silent once more.
Watching from her vantage point she saw her people being put into groups and herded off to the portal site along with the provisions they were toting about. 'I will have to ready her soon to join me. Her foolish sibling wouldn't dare follow me. In any case I will leave someone behind to hinder them. I'm not so in the dark to know that those girls are banding with him. Now I must make ready'
A group of around ten dressed in her colours, were making their way towards the portal site, mostly made up solely of the Few they jostled and barreled their way along. It seemed that everyone was desperately trying to finish their jobs, as they hurried around the small grounds around the house, no one seemed to be in charge yet everything was moving smoothly. As smoothly as a horde of Few, Mythicals and wraiths could get. The wraiths kept watch in small packs of two or three, their snarls kept many away making people skirt the long way around to avoid them. Nothing stood out about this small squad, two of whom were hauling sacks over their shoulders whilst the rest were merely hoisting satchels or backpacks. They were dressed as their Queen all in black, with the exception of a blood-red strip that twisted around the right arm from shoulder to wrist. Their badge of allegiance was proudly displayed yet hard to see as it was etched in silver, an unusual choice, the Ouroboros, the cycle of life and nature of the universe. Their masks were either already on or clipped to their waist. They certainly looked like a force to be reckoned with.
"Alright you lot listen up!" A big burly man shouted to the small squad stopping them just at the entrance to the portal site "I want a nice clean trip. No fuss when we get there, you report directly to your station. Understood?!"
"Yes Sir!" The troop called back in response
A long howl ripped through the air, as one the wraiths turned to face in the direction with their ears pointed and alert. The humanoids carried on thinking it was just an alert call for the wraiths. Three of whom grew more tense behind their masks. An alarm blared making nearly everyone jump in surprise. All grew to a halt. Some shuffled around seemingly to look for orders or to get clear sightings of trouble. They moved nearer to the forests edge. Thunder boomed and lightning struck. It was serious if the Queen was letting loose. All men readied themselves as a loud voice echoed along the grounds.
"Find them! I want them alive! No one escapes from me!" the shrill voice demanded
Three figures stealthily in the chaos made their way to the forest, putting up a show of searching, making their way further away from the rest. It wasn't long before someone came along to stop them. It was the loud burly man from the portal site who pulled them up sharply. They were so close.
"Where do you think you three are going?"
"You heard our Lady. She wants whoever they are found. We are merely searching this section of the grounds" a smooth voice responded
"You must be daft if you're thinking they have gotten this far. Wraiths would have pounced on them. It's not exactly hiding central"
"Even so with your leave we will search this area" the smooth one once more spoke, hefting his large satchel on his shoulder to a more comfortable position whilst the other hand, hidden from view fingered his blade
"I say get back to the other side." Looking a little red in the face, until he peered closely at the talker through the mask "Who are you? I would have remembered someone who spoke like you around…."
His talk was quickly halted as a blade pierced his heart with one true stroke. One of the other trios who held only a small bag kept him upright, turned away from the others, making like everything was ok. But with blood being spilt others could surely sense it.
"We must hurry Ruven. The wraiths will pick up on the blood soon enough." A woman's voice hurriedly advised him
"I agree. But I fear that we will be overcome all too quickly. Our stealth has been badly ruined and our timing is all but vanished." Ruven mused
"Enough talk then. Let's go." Timon now spoke up striding off towards the forest
The two looked at each other before a brief nod, Alexis let go of the weight that she had held, letting the body fall callously to the floor as she and Ruven took after the Balam with hurried steps. It wasn't soon enough as growls and howls filled the air sounding incredibly close. Soon shouts and cries from others joined in. Ruven stopped his stride with his head slightly leaning to the side near his bag. Ripping his mask off, he looked sombre yet determined. Alexis called to Timon who turned back to face them stepping nearer and knew at once what his friend sought to do.
"You must escape. We will hold them off." Ruven carefully but quickly lowered his satchel to the floor where it quickly dissolved into one very grumpy dwarf
"I 'ate bein' lugged around like that." Thrain growled as he dusted himself off taking in his surroundings and position in a glance
"Please don't do this" Alexis whispered as she quickly took off her own mask to show tears trailing down her cheeks
"Now don't you be cryin over us gal. I don't plan on dyin today but I be planning on takin some of them down." Thrain tested his battle-axes in his hands as Ruven hefted his blades
The shouts and snarls grew nearer.
"We can still escape. We simply must run and activate the portal stone." Alexis tried once more
Timon knew better. There wasn't enough time. Warriors such as himself and his two friends knew better. He also knew that it was highly unlikely that they will see each other again. He ripped the hidden seal off his bag to reveal the slumbering girl, placing her gently on the ground he stepped over to the two that had risked much for them. The Balam clasped their hands and quietly intoned an old spiritual incantation over them.
"My friend, may I ask what you have gifted us with?" Ruven looked a little surprised at the gesture
"It is an old custom among my people for warriors heading into battle. A brief heightened prowess" he continued on so that only they may hear, to not make Alexis sadder "Also to preserve your bodies, if you fall, so no one may defile them and can only be lifted with the proper rites."
The Dark Elf and Dwarf gave him a nod of thanks that he could do this much for them. However it wasn't over yet.
"I request that I can stay with you as much as I may. To fight beside you as long as I can."
Turning his head he heard the sounds real close, Thrain and Ruven took a battle stance in front of them and met the first wraith head on killing it quickly. Yet more soon joined the fray.
"Alexis take the girl and get going." Timon passed her the slumbering girl.
"No Timon I'm not leaving you" Alexis protested as she shifted the weight evenly
"Get going!" He shouted at her as he sprinted off to help the scouts
The Shaman warred with herself, to go or to stay. Looking towards her protector and love fighting alongside the scouts, the wraiths and guards seemed like an endless tide now. A familiar huge roar made her jump and strengthened her resolve. Turning her back on the fight she started to walk doggedly off. Each step made worse by the ongoing battle behind her. She was hidden somewhat as she trudged her way along slowly, the battle still clearly heard.
Timon was in his true form now, half jaguar he clawed and cleaved his way amongst the enemy, having found a good size blade of his own from one of the dead. Sidestepping a misplaced strike he swung his own severing an arm, he watched as they howled in agony before ending their pain with a stab to the heart. They were given no mercy. Dodging and weaving he made his way to his friends, blocking an enraged wraith from leaping at Thrain, he made quick work of killing it before joining the scouts in a three-way defence formation. It was working but the numbers were too great. Parrying blows and ducking swipes Timon knew he couldn't stay much longer as much as he hated doing so, he needed to retreat.
His elven friend knew. A small blue crystal was shoved in his pocket and Timon knew without anyone saying that he needed to go. Plunging his sword into a wraith, he rolled under a beheading strike swinging his own sword onto the attackers back he jumped to his feet. Looking back Timon saw an amazing sight, one he knew would be with him for the rest of his life, a dwarf and an elf standing back to back drawing all attention their way and making the Queen lose quite heavily. The Balam raised his sword in front of his face with the blade flat facing him; he saluted them and howled his people's cry.
Sprinting away Timon tried to block out all that was happening behind him. Two good souls had given him his freedom. 'I'll honour and remember their names. I'll make sure others do as well. What a cost just to get us free that they had to lay down their lives for us like that. All for the sake of a sleeping girl. Is she so special? I must find Alexis and fast.'
He ran through the foliage not caring for the sound he was making, the branches were sharp as they cut at him some even drew blood. Timon barged his way into a clearing, spotting his beloved standing over the red-head looking anguished. Tears rolled down her face as she looked at him still in his true form, which he quickly dispelled. Alexis quickly hurried over to him and hugged him tight, stifled sobs racked her lean frame as he led her close. There was one thing that could have made her like this. Their friends had lost the fight.
Timon wasted no time in untangling himself, gently from her grasp, positioning her with their ill escapee he brought out the crystal showing the blue stone to the light. Snarls were heard nearby. They were closing in. But the horde was too late. Humming the incantation a white light began to spew forth, like a foggy cold morning it enveloped them, their images became distorted as they disappeared.
A brawn wraith leaped into the clearing his fanged mouth snarling away at his prey. It grew silent as its black hollow eyes scanned all over. This is where the prey was supposed to be. Luckily, for three at least, there was nothing in the clearing. A scream of rage and a blast of lightning was all the wraith heard before it sizzled away.
The caverns tunnel was dark and damp. The heavy breathing and slow steps from the ones that entered its realm, were the only sounds heard. Balls of light lit their way barely illuminating the darkness around them, yet enough so they could see reasonably well. A shiver crawled over the youngest one, as she quickly tried to see what caused it. Something stirred. They had awakened something from its slumber.
"Is everything ok Kagome-chan?" a worried voice asked from behind, a nod was all the reply she got.
"I'm not surprised she's jumpy. This place gives a new meaning to the word uninviting." Yaya sarcastically spoke from up ahead
"No kidding." Tamao agreed with her friend "Are you sure that Queenie used to have a hideout around here? It doesn't scream her type of place at all Kei"
"These are the back tunnels Tamao. She always had an escape hatch. Especially after me and Nagisa found our way in the one time, she took extra steps afterwards." Kei sounded smug and wistful at the same time.
"Steps?" Miyuki asked hesitantly
Shizuma noticed the concerned tone of her friend and just had to agree with her. It all seemed a little too easy, coming along these trails and not expect something to cause havoc. Since when did easy ever happen to them.
"Yeah. Sometimes she used magical traps others she used creatures under her spell to attack anything that moved. One survivor swore that both parties had to work together to fend off a whole horde of beasts. It's quite thrilling to listen to."
As he spoke the girls behind him grew tense and nervous. Thrilling wasn't the word they would use at all. Unconsciously they moved closer together still managing not to trip one another up. In the darkness around them anything seemed possible. Shizuma who was at the front end of the group, kept her senses trained after that little information was leaked. 'I wish Kei never said that. Sometimes he's like a child blurting things out without thought. Surely there isn't anything in here after all this time. Surely!' A scuttle was heard. 'I shouldn't have thought it. Me and my stupid brain'
Yaya kept her composure when she heard the second scuttle, since it seemed only she did. Risking a look at her fellow friends they all looked nervous but none seemed to be affected by it. The Etoile saw the young wolf look around and knew at least one of the Few was prepared. All her focus was concentrated on anything other than what was in front of her as she barreled into the back of Kei. Looking a little confused to why they had suddenly stopped she peeked over his shoulder to see the cause. Gasps of wonder, shock and concern echoed in the stillness.
They had entered a large cavern where it was bigger and more open than the previous confinements before. Spread across the track was silver strands of web stretched crisscrossed all over, thick as rope but as delicate as thread. From ceiling to floor it was woven with no way through. They all huddled tighter in a group as they saw the scene in front of them. The third scuttle was heard by them all.
"This isn't good" Kei muttered as he scanned the rocky walls for the source
"What is it?" Chikaru asked looking a little pale placing a hand on the fairy's shoulder more for her own comfort than anything.
Before anyone could reply a tinkling of laughter filled the air. It wasn't a pleasant sound filled with mirth but one with malice. Everyone jumped at the suddenness of it and each one readied themselves for the inevitable fight. Trouble was they had no clue as of yet who they were up against. As practised and without a word the strongest fighters made up of Kei, Shizuma, Miyuki, Shion and Yaya surrounded the last three in a circle. They worked best from long-range in any battle. Soon the laughing stopped and all was still once more.
"What is that?" Shion demanded from anyone who knew
"I thought these tunnels would be deserted after so long." Tamao butted in looking annoyed more than anything
"Webs. By fire why did it have to be webs" Kei muttered mournfully
"Kei I swear if you don't tell us soon, I'll personally curse you. And it won't be pretty." Chikaru surprisingly threatened him
"Promise you won't freak out" Kei implored them all, knowing from past experience girls tended to go crazy when they saw one, receiving vigorous nods he continued "It's an Arachne" barely being heard
Shivers of disgust went down some of the girls spines when they heard him whilst others still looked nonplussed. About to explain they were cut off by the sound of clapping. Looking all around still they saw nothing, until Kagome pointed to the web across the track. It was moving. The thinly threads of silver were gently being jostled; they all stared as if hypnotised, waiting for whatever was coming. The scuttling from before was the first they heard of their oncoming approach, now clearly recognised that of many legs moving in rhythm.
"Arachne. For those aren't well-educated please dumb it down." Yaya whispered
"Basically it's a spider woman." Tamao told her friend who blanched at the image it created.
"I hate spiders" Shion moaned paling a bit and shivering at the thought
"Pity. I would have killed you quickly if it wasn't for that remark." An enchanting voice spoke
All looked to the web and gasped. Now resting on the many fine threads was quite a sight to behold. The lower part was that of a spider and with it its many eight legs holding it securely to that of her web. The upper torso was that of an attractive woman, with her long black hair wildly surrounding her face reaching far past her chest for she wore no clothes. Her eyes were pure obsidian and her lips barely hid the protruding fangs. Her skin was ghastly pale like she had never once walked in the sunlight. She smiled at their expressions showing her fangs to their true size.
"Well, well little flies what brought you here to my domain?" she asked them her voice sounded alluring
"We have no quarrel with you Arachne. Let us pass" Kei's voice sounded firm and strong
"Ah. That I cannot allow, for I have been ordered that none shall pass."
"What orders? The Queen you serve has long since been caught" Kei told her bluffing his way
"Think me for a fool?!" The spider woman roared "I have seen my Lady not long past. So your lies of trickery won't fool me"
Shizuma's heart leapt at the words. True they would have gone long ago from the place but still it was the first time they had a solid lead on her. Looking to Kei she saw the same hope burn strong in his eyes and with that it gave them more hope than before.
"Why serve Her? Look at you dwelling here in the darkness. Surely you wish to walk above" Kei took a step forward
"And behold the same thoughts and looks as these you travel with? The shock and disgust that is so plain to see. In my Lady's hands I can walk free that is why you shall not pass."
The ground started to tremble as the Arachne looked on. The Few and the siblings tried to steady their footing. Faster than the eye could see, the Arachne fired her web in a thread slinging around Yaya and Chikaru hauling them off the ground and pinning them to the web, in tight cocoons. The others had more dire things to contend with. Earth crawlers had arrived as they hauled their long pale bodies from the ground, their spindly fingers ready to grasp their prey. It was Shion who first saw them. Her girlish scream bounced in the underground clearing. Tamao and Miyuki busy with the enemy had no time to spare, yet the others quickly came to the Valkyries side. There on the walls scuttling their way down, were huge tarantulas, which even Kei had to shiver at.
"We need to split up. With two down and two fighting the Earth Crawlers we need to be extra careful." Kei hurriedly planned it out
The eight legged creatures decided for him as two shot their way, their pincers snapping as they split up to tackle their targets. Kei and Shion got the mother monster and Shizuma and Kagome got the creepy crawlies.
The Arachne gave a chilling smile as she lowered herself to the floor, her obsidian eyes never leaving the two fighters before her. Kei had his fire honed into a sword whilst Shion had her faithful katana both stood apart a little for room as they watched her attentively. The Arachne hissed and a shot of venom spewed from her mouth making Shion roll to the side whilst Kei leapt forward, his sword swinging only to be met with a blade. The Spider Lady had come prepared. The two Mythicals thrust and parried, each couldn't get through the others defence. Each time Kei tried to use his fire the Arachne squashed it with her web. They were on equal footing. Using too much force for a swing Kei lunged too far as he stepped too close, enough for a wild swing to easily cut him down, as the Arachne swiftly took advantage of his misbalance. Lunging she aimed for his heart, as Kei tried futilely to dodge or parry. It wasn't meant to be. The spiders blade clashed with another as obsidian met with raging blue. Shion quickly shoved the blade away before attacking, as each clash drew sparks as the dance of blades continued.
Elsewhere two blunettes were easily taking down the rest of the Earth Crawlers, having fought them before Tamao knew how they moved and how to destroy them. Using her air element she imploded one or two at once as well as forcing some back with a strong gale so Miyuki could slay a small number before the next batch. They made quite a team. A venomous dart to a white chest later, Miyuki finally let herself catch her breath, as she quickly looked at how her friends were doing. Shizuma and Kagome looked pale as they tried to kill the big spiders and Kei and Shion were both battling the Arachne. They looked to be doing all right. Tamao was by her side sliding an arm around her, which to her felt very nice as she straightened up. Looking into her girlfriends eyes, they had a silent talk and with a quick nod they both shot off to help, with Miyuki heading to the Arachne and Tamao towards the rest.
Ever been the type that when you find a spider in the bathtub, you could easily contain it and put it outside? Good for you. Shizuma was one of those, she had no qualms with it at all, she even remembered when Miyuki had barged her way into her room and dragged her off into her own to get her to rid of a spider. But now as she was looking into the many eyes of the one in front of her, she wondered if she would ever be able to do so again. 'That does it. If I see another spider where it shouldn't be I won't be as merciful. I'll thwack it with a newspaper until there's nothing left.' Shizuma jumped back to avoid the pincers as she fired at it with her fire scorching it along the top, but unfortunately it moved swiftly to avoid real damage. Kagome was busy confusing the other four tarantulas that had scuttled into the fray, using illusions to trick them into fighting some imaginary foe. It was draining the little fairy and Shizuma had to work quickly.
Forming multiple arrows she fired them each landing true in vulnerable spots as it crashed to the ground in agony. Shizuma wasted no time as she ran over, mindful of the sharp ends and plunged a fire sword deep inside killing it as painlessly as she could. A cry got her attention as she spun around, only to watch in horror as Kagome was looking scared at the crawlies crowding her. The young girl's illusions had failed. As one the spiders launched onto the fairy, making Shizuma scream out covering her eyes at the massacre about to happen. No screams were heard. A soft breeze drifted by her cheek, as the Etoile looked up and caught Tamao's gaze. A small smile was plastered on her face as Tamao redirected her gaze upwards which Shizuma followed. The young woman couldn't stop the broad grin that plastered itself on her face as she saw the little fairy hovering out of reach, her wings beating furiously to keep her up.
"Help her out Tamao. But bring her way out of their reach" Shizuma asked her friend
Tamao reached out with one hand as the air in the caverns started to slowly do her bidding. The air once still, now a breeze swept through, pulling and nudging the fairy in their direction. It took a while as Shizuma defended the two girls from the annoying spiders, for Kagome to land safely and once she did Tamao soon got herself involved. Raising her arms high the winds rushed filling the small clearing with a monstrous gale, making everyone stop and hold themselves steady. The Few watched as Tamao manipulated the air to flatten the spiders to the floor, unable to move an inch. Shizuma shook her head at the power Tamao suddenly displayed as she went to each one killing it swiftly and as the last one died Tamao released the winds, the air becoming still and warm once more.
A shriek of rage at her fallen brethren filled the clearing, speedily disarming Shion and throwing her roughly at the walls and shooting her poisonous spray at Miyuki who dodged away barely as the poison stung her leg, making her unable to move. The Arachne had her eyes focused on the Mythicals the two fire wielders who stood protectively in front of the two girls.
"I shall enjoy killing you. My Lady will be pleased with me for doing so. Then I will slowly take the lives of your friends, some will even have the pleasure of being food for me and mine."
"Pleasure?" Kei muttered just enough so that his sister could hear
Shizuma had had enough. Enough of the dark paths, enough of huge spiders and certainly enough of the half-naked crazy spider bitch that was in her way. So without much thought she launched a fire vortex straight at her and instantly followed it through with fire arrows. Kei took a moment to take it all in as he watched his sister fire first. The Arachne got away with some minor burns and a renewed rage. The phoenixes and Arachne clashed, in a whirlwind of fire, web and the occasional poison. Kei was wielding his white flame as a sword as Shizuma kept her distance with arrows and fire balls. The Arachne could barely get close. Kei swiped at one of her many legs, catching it right on the joint making her fumble. That was all it took as Shizuma fired her arrows. Each one landing true, peppering the spider woman like a porcupine. The Arachne fell never to rise as the girls crowded around the lifeless body.
"Can we leave? I want to get out of these wretched tunnels" Miyuki sighed as she was held up by Tamao
"Yes Miyuki. But first I think we need to free our friends." Kei pointed to the two cocoons on the web. Embarrassingly it was the first time they had thought of them throughout the fight.
AN: I hope you enjoyed it and thanks for reading and sticking with me. It's a bit of a long chapter, I didn't realise it until I downloaded it :) Well the story is slowly coming together now so Happy Reading!