Hi there! I know it's been a long time since I last updated this story. I haven't forgotten, real life has been busy and I must admit I've had a serious writers block with this story. Thanks to all that have read and stayed with me and most of all thanks to those that have given me a serious kick up my ass to get this going again :) Well here's the next chapter and a long one. R&R please :)
Chapter 7
It was dawn when they finally saw the light once more. The red and orange hues glistened through the high windows. They had finally emerged from their underground trek. Shizuma sighed gratefully as she looked around her. The house was large, well-kept and very much empty, though she did see signs of recent occupation which bolstered her hopes up. 'If what that spider said was true, Queenie has been here recently. I just need one sign, anything, that can point me to Nagisa. Even if…' Shizuma was pulled from her thoughts as Kei started to take charge. The girls huddled around him, Yaya sneaking glances around her not trusting the silence one bit.
"This is Queenie's family house, been in her family for generations." Kei gestured to the foyer "Since Arachne told us she saw her not long ago, gives us a little hope that she might have left some idea where she has gone and…."
Tamao smiled a little wistfully "If she still has Nagisa"
Shizuma clenched her hands into fists by her side. The unspoken words were a knife into her already fragile heart. 'If Nagisa is still alive.'
"Here's what we're going to do" Kei quickly moved on the same words unnerved him "We are going to split into pairs and search the entire estate. That means grounds and cells. There must be something she forgot. No one makes a clean getaway with an army."
"I'll take the grounds if you don't mind" Chikaru asked
"I'll go with Chikaru-oneesama." Kagome spoke up as saw how pale her sempai was
"Yaya and I will search the cells. It shouldn't take us that long"
"That leaves us" Miyuki looked to her best friend "Take the top floor Shizuma with Kei and Tamao and I will do the rest."
"Just before you go, remember this, always watch your back. Even if it could be deserted there could still be traps. More deadly than being cocooned in a web" Kei smirked at the two girls who glared right back
"We will meet back here in a few hours" Shizuma told them as she dragged Kei to the stairs to avoid being blasted or bitten
"Holler if you run into trouble" Kei yelled
"What an idiot" Chikaru mumbled as she and Kagome headed for the front door
"He reminds me of Nagisa-oneesama" cuddling her bear tightly
The witch looked over at her young friend and couldn't help but gasp when she saw a small blush. Her hand froze on the handle as she continued to stare. The fairy was confused as looked up. Her oneesama was acting funny.
"Kagome-chan do you have a small crush on Kei?" she stuttered out, long gone were the days being the Shadow Empress at Astraea
Kagome's face flushed a deeper red and her voice squeaked her reply "What?"
Chuckling at the answer Chikaru managed to speak "It's nothing to be ashamed of Kagome-chan. It's actually very cute"
"Oneesama…"
"Confessing is a whole other matter…" rambling on ignoring the angry fairy
"Oneesama…"
"I'm rooting for you!"
"Oneesama!" Kagome finally broke through to the rambling witch, who faced a very red, very annoyed fairy
"I'm sorry Kagome-chan I was in my own world for a minute there"
"I will say this Oneesama. If you say anything, to anyone, I will be forced to measures I don't want to do." Kagome seriously pointed out
Chikaru was impressed. Her lessons had paid off it seemed but she was still the master after all.
"My dear Kagome. I don't think you have much on me to say that. But it was a good try…"
"It concerns you and your best friend. You've wanted to keep it low-key ever since going to the Isle. Imagine how the others would react?" Kagome said in a matter of fact tone
Now it was Chikaru's turn to blush slightly. The two Lulim girls stared at each other and finally they both nodded. Their secrets were safe. Well between the two of them at least.
Shizuma and Kei worked efficiently together as they scoured the abandoned building. The rooms were sparsely furnished, with barely a sign that it was recently inhabited. Getting very frustrated as another room proved to be a bust, Shizuma was relieved to find that the hallway was nearly done. A spine tingling shiver shot through her spine as Shizuma stood outside of a seemingly innocent door. There was nothing to mark it apart from the others, but the uneasiness persisted. Shizuma trembled as she reached out; her hand shakily pushed the door open. The vibes of before grew.
The former Etoile carefully made her way inside, her golden flecked eyes scanned the room warily watching for anything out-of-place. Standing by the window Shizuma saw that the room was much like the others. It was a fair size, with scattered furnishings and shelving all situated the far end. 'This is odd. Well this whole place is odd but so not the point. This room feels like a mausoleum, cold and uninviting with something else. Nothing special about this room as I can tell but…' Shizuma was pulled out of her trance when the door swung open and Kei walked in. With one look Shizuma could tell that the same shiver crawled down his spine. Something malicious had happened in here. The young woman stood still as she observed her brother meticulously going over the room, trying to find the cause. It wasn't until he got within a couple of steps of her did he jerk in surprise. Shizuma unfolded her arms and walked to his side, anticipation warred with dread. Shizuma could bare it no more.
"Kei do you know why this room is…as it is?"
"I'm not sure" Kei murmured "But there is a way to find out"
Gesturing for her to stay Kei stepped away into a more central position. Shizuma barely blinked as she watched him chant away. The air soon grew ice cold; her breaths came out in white puffs of smoke and hoped that Kei would stop before her teeth started to chatter. An unnatural breeze swept around the room, the candles suddenly lit and stayed steady even when the breeze turned into a gale. Huddling in on herself from the cold Shizuma forced her eyes to watch, as Kei's chanting grew to a crescendo with arms open wide. On the final note a circle of runes surrounded him, each blazing in an eerily black fire. Seconds later they winked out, the wind blew itself out and yet the candles remained lit. Shizuma was uneasy. Those runes and the display of the wind and fire made her wish to remain clueless at what was to come, but despite that she had to know.
"Kei what was that?" she asked in a nervous voice as she walked quickly to his side
The phoenix remained silent. He hadn't moved since it stopped, his arms hung loosely to his sides and he hung his head low. Shizuma knew how certain chants could drain you, but knowing Kei it was more than that.
A voice so soft spoke "Great evil was done here."
Down in the dank corridors a single torch lit the way for the two Spica girls. They checked each cell, mindful of the unknown ooze dripping away and the pungent straw on the ground. In some of the cells were signs of use in others none at all. They travelled deeper down. The eldest led the way whilst the youngest was fidgeting as she walked.
"What's wrong Yaya?" Shion asked over her shoulder
"Sorry. The smell down here is musky. And believe me there are some smells you don't want to know about." Shuddering a little at her statement
Shion wrinkled her nose at the admission and instantaneously an idea popped in her head "Yaya could you in your wolf form find anything worth finding? If Nagisa-chan was held down here…well it would save us plenty of time"
"Gotcha!"
Yaya quickly transformed, her furry snout sniffed the air then lowered to the floor. The Valkyrie watched in silence as her friend methodically scoured the area. She was a little worried that the other smells would overpower the young wolf, or they wouldn't get anything concerning Nagisa. However luck seemed to shine on them. Yaya yipped as she sat back on her haunches with her tail wagging in happiness.
"Lead the way" Shion smiled
With a bark Yaya ran down the passageway as Shion followed as fast as she could, careful not to let the torch go out. With a few twists and pauses, Yaya back in her human form stood nervously outside a cell with a puzzled look to her face. As Shion caught her breath Yaya told her why she was a little unsure.
"There were two trails. I followed this one as it was older. But why would they move her at all?"
"I don't know Yaya. Let's check both trails in any case. Do you want to stay outside?" as she noticed the reluctance of her friend
The young girl glanced to the door then back at Shion, her face set in a look of resolve "No. Thanks though. But I want to do this."
Shion gave her a nod as she heaved the door open, her hand with the torch led the way lighting up the small cell. The two young women gasped. The wall opposite them had manacles on a long chain, inserted securely to the wall to prevent the prisoner from moving too far and they looked well-worn. There was no straw like some of the others they had seen, if Shion had to guess it was meant to break whoever resided in there. It was Yaya who saw it. Rushing over to the manacled wall she crouched down, hiding her find. Shion drew in closer. Yaya slowly turned to face her, tears streaming down her face. Shion's eyes were drawn to the bundle in her hands, her own eyes watering a little. It was a simple red jacket, a familiar one.
"Nagisa was here" Shion sniffed tenderly touching it
Hugging the jacket tight to her chest Yaya cried for her lost friend. Shion put the torch in one of the notches in the walls, before she hugged her friend, hating the sobs that wracked her lithe frame. It took a while for the two girls to calm down and pull themselves together. True to form it was Shion who got her act together first and took charge, whilst Yaya carefully placed the jacket in her own backpack.
"Could you lead us along the second trail now?"
Without a word the two scuttled their way off. In no time they found themselves outside a second cell. Yet this one was already open, it was strange as all the others were closed until now. Yaya quickly went inside her senses heightened as she searched the cell. Shion however was checking out the burnt out lock, which with everything else didn't add up.
"Shion-san!" Yaya called out making the said girl jump
"Yaya don't do that!"
"Sorry" not looking a bit apologetic "I found that Nagisa was here, but there are scents of others mixed in."
"So she was alone in a cell at first chained to the wall" she flinched a little at her own tone "then for whatever reason she was put in here, where there were already people inside. And then there is this, a burnt out lock"
Yaya came to stand alongside her as she herself examined the door "It looks to me as if it was burnt from the outside"
In an instant the two faced each other, a look of surprise on their faces.
"Nagisa escaped!" they shouted in sync
"We have to tell the others" Shion gasped out
Yaya nodded her head vigorously as they both ran off to find the others.
Out in the vast grounds the Witch and Fairy were happily enjoying the fresh air as they searched. They had found evidence of major foot traffic, of many types, patrolling the grounds. It didn't surprise them as they knew Queenie had a large force, but it did shock them on how large an entourage she kept around her. Kagome skipped along the forests edge, as Chikaru watched her fondly. So it was a shock when Kagome called her over in a hurry. When Chikaru arrived she saw nothing out-of-place. It wasn't until the Fairy squatted down and pointed to a reddish stain on the grass.
"Blood Oneesama"
"Do you know anything more?"
"No. But something doesn't feel right" Kagome whispered
The senior trusted her at her word as her kind was especially sensitive to nature "Let me try a searching spell. It might find out what other things lurk nearby."
Flicking her trusty wand to her hand, Chikaru chanted her spell. A red light shot out towards the forest, leaving behind a dusty wake for them to follow as the two Few hurried off after it. Dodging branches and swerving past the trees it took them little time to find a small clearing. It wasn't empty. Quickly Chikaru placed herself in front of Kagome, as she tried to analyse the scene in front of her. If she deemed the sight too unnerving she would send the girl away.
Two bodies were sprawled on the ground, blood was seen in patches dotting around the clearing but none could she on them. Moving a few steps closer she saw only a few rips in the clothing yet some were obviously deep. Letting her young friend see Chikaru moved to crouch by the two bodies, a familiar tingle alerted her that a spell was placed on them.
"I wonder what happened here Chikaru-oneesama. It looks like their sleeping."
"I don't know my little fairy. I feel the spell that's been cast on them, but I don't know what it is. As for the rest of the clearing a battle took place here."
"Should I signal the others?"
"We will both go Kagome-chan. Just to be safe"
Chikaru and Kagome marked their path back to the forests edge and as soon as she was clear Kagome set off a display of fireworks. It was a loud and bright display. The witch watched as the group arrived, first being Miyuki and Tamao jogging their way to them, then came Shizuma who stopped halfway noticing the lack of trouble to wait for the rest of the group that filed out the house. In no time at all everyone was gathered round in a huddle.
Shizuma scanned her friends and was concerned at what she saw, Chikaru and Kagome looked uneasy whilst Shion and Yaya looked to have been crying as their red eyes stood out. They weren't a happy group. Miyuki noticed the same as she shared a look with Tamao.
"I guess you found something Chikaru." Kei spoke looking around them to try to find it
"It's in a clearing a little ways in the forest Kei" pointing a finger in the general direction
"Let's go look" Kei was about to start off before a hand stopped him mid step
"Be a little patient Kei" Shizuma asked him with a small smile but it quickly vanished when she faced the two Spica girls who shuffled under her gaze "What is it you two found?"
The two shared a long look filled with a hidden conversation only they seemed to understand. Shion shook her head as Yaya nodded reluctantly. Everyone was quiet.
It was Yaya who spoke "Nagisa was held in a cell back there. It must have been recent too since it was covered up by everything else."
The girls and boy gasped in joy, it certainly was good news, but Yaya wasn't finished as she swung her bag off her shoulders removing something very precious. The red jacket was tenderly placed into Shizuma's care. The silver-haired wasn't the only one with tears in her eyes, as she cradled the bundle gently to her. Kei gave his sister a quick hug both of them trying very hard to keep their emotions in check. The rest gave them time, as well as themselves, as the find Yaya found cut them deep. After all was settled and the bundle back in Yaya's bag, Tamao looked over at Shizuma and Kei, who like the others had found something.
"What have you found Shizuma-san?" the elemental asked
Shizuma closed her eyes for a second before looking over the group, her brother had hung his head and they both didn't want to bring their hopes down. What they had found, even if they didn't understand it, would certainly depress them.
"We're not sure." Shizuma tried to explain
"In one of the rooms black magic and a great evil was performed in there. I tried to recreate the last spell to understand it, but the power and the evil was too great." Kei shuddered at the feeling
"You don't think…Nagisa…" Yaya tried to speak
"We don't know." Kei quickly stopped that train of thought
Chikaru thought it was time to show what she had found as she motioned for them to follow her into the forest. It was easy for her to find her way to the clearing and as before the two bodies lay centre stage.
"We found these two. I don't know how they died or the spell that preserves their body." Chikaru waved to the two
"It looks like they fought many a number." Shion ran her practised eye over the clearing
The group came further into the clearing but didn't get too close, yet one red-head crouched down next to them.
"I know them" he whispered
"Kei?" Shizuma grew concerned at his tone
Putting her hand on his shoulder made him turn around to face her, red-gold flecked eyes filled with pain met hers.
"I knew them." The girls drew in closer "Their scouts sent from the Isle on my father's orders. All volunteers mind you. I scouted with them once and I got to know them. Ruven lived with the Elves despite his ebony skin. Thrain Cairntracker was one of the northern Dwarf clan. Both good men."
The group gave a moment's silence in respect. Kei stood back up and faced his team as Shizuma took his hand in support. 'We've found more than we ever had before. Some of it unnerving. But something doesn't add up. Scouts preserved in a clearing don't suit Queenie's style. Besides weren't they supposed to scout places and report back? Their too experienced for them to simply be found out.' Someone else had the exact same thoughts.
"If these are two are experienced scouts. Why are they dead in a clearing with a perseverance spell cast on them? It doesn't add up at all" Tamao stated
"Another party had to be involved in that. I don't see Queenie being nice like that." Miyuki added
Yaya shot Shion a look whose eyes widen in realisation. Kei himself shot to the Elf's side, as he searched the body. The others looked at both with a little confusion until the Valkyrie told them of the burnt out lock. It all started to click together.
"It's not here!" Kei exclaimed
"What isn't?" Shizuma asked
"The portal stone. Every scouting party has one for emergencies. It doesn't teleport to the Isle, it's too weak, but it certainly teleports you further enough away." Kei made his way back to the group with a huge smile on his face
Shizuma couldn't help the flutters of butterflies in her stomach as she listened to Kei ramble on. Her hope was coming back with a vengeance. But someone put a lid on it in a hurry.
"If Nagisa-chan has escaped why hasn't she contacted the Isle? Or another thing, if she was with these two, she wouldn't leave them to their fate." The witch softly said
"There's only one way to find out for certain" Kei bluntly told them, not giving up the cause yet "That is for you girls to teleport to where the escapees did and find out from there."
Shizuma heard him correctly and didn't understand why he wasn't coming along "Why just us?"
"I am bringing these two back to the Isle for proper rites. I don't want to leave them here any longer"
"How do we get to wherever were going?" Yaya asked eager to be off
"Better yet how do we get in touch with the Isle?" Miyuki folded her arms
Kei grinned at them and quickly positioned them in a circle giving Shizuma a pale blue stone
"This is a portal stone. Shizuma knows how to use one. As for reaching the Isle I think the small communicator in one of your bags does the trick."
Shizuma nodded her head and activated the stone, her clear voice humming the verse as it the stone began to glow.
"Good luck" Kei wished them as they disappeared in a final flash of light.
Snap!A lone hunter's ears pricked up at the sound, becoming still with senses sharp for any further sounds. Only the natural woodland wildlife could be heard. Shrugging their shoulders, the hunter turned back to their task as he hefted his catch on to his shoulder before striding a path through the thick shrubbery. A small smile tugged his lips as he made his way along, his cat-like eyes shined with refreshed hope and a zest for life. Yet hidden underneath that lay a small amount of sadness and anger, an anger that pulsed towards one person. It was a look one has when they've experienced so much. Letting loose a small sigh, he shook his head and focused on his trek back towards his camp, wondering how his beloved would cook his latest catch.
Timon finally arrived at his camp looking over every square inch intensely making sure nothing had happened whilst he was away. It was a small clearing sheltered by the gigantic trees, giving the area a subdued but homely glow. The woodlands surrounded a small rock face, in which made the final decision in making a semi-permanent camp, as hidden beneath vines was a small cave big enough to house all three. Simply put, it was home. For now. Arriving at the small fire near to the cave, he dumped the young buck onto the ground before walking into the cave to see Alexis and the sleeping girl. Two torches gave light enough to see by as he saw the blonde hovering anxiously beside the redhead. His gaze drifted towards the sleeping girl taking in her pale features and the deep bruising under her eyes. She was getting worse with each passing day.
"How is she faring?" Timon asked softly not wanting to break the calm
"Not well at all Timon" making sure her charge was comfortable the two left the cave
Alexis walked over to the fire pit where two logs of considerable size were placed on either side, the young buck dumped nearby was all she needed and quickly began her job of preparing their next meal. Timon watched her since she left the girls side, her behaviour was not normal, so instead of quizzing her he let her be allowing her to come to him. They had lived in the camp for a few days, high alert to any unnatural sounds and scouting regularly around them unwilling to be caught unawares. It was no wonder with all that happened that the stress and anxiety needed an outlet. He hoped it wasn't all bad when he finally learned what was wrong. It wasn't until later after their meal that Alexis snuggled into Timon's side that the Balam figured where her mind had been.
"We need to do something to help her Timon." She stated simply
"How are we going to do that?" Timon looked seriously at the Shaman
"She is already in a dream state. All I must do is find her and bring her back" Alexis briefly explained
Timon shot her a sharp look, knowing she was leaving a chunk out, his own teachings taught him that much and so much could go wrong.
"Delving into an unknown mind isn't that easy Alexis. There are so many variables that you are not counting for." Leaning back from her slightly so he could face her properly "What will you do if she is too broken?"
"We must still try!"
The woman looked at the Balam beseechingly, knowing that this was the right thing to do. The redhead Alexis knew, had already been in the deep sleep for far too long, the effects could leave permanent scars if it were to continue. If she didn't have them already. Alexis launched into her protectors arms as she saw the look of acceptance on his face. The blonde pulled back a bit, still cocooned in his strong arms seeing the worry that now dominated his face.
"Please give me your word that you will be careful. Don't be reckless"
"You have my word Timon. Come let us prepare there is much to do."
With little time the two Mythicals had finished their preparations. The fire was roaring away with fresh logs to the side, small vials and bowls were placed within easy reach and small wards were placed around the perimeter to ward off un-expecting animals. The sleeping young woman was placed in between the two logs far away from the fire to be safe but close enough to feel its warmth. Alexis herself had prepared herself by the small river, cleansing her body and mind for the delving. When all was ready Timon looked apprehensively towards his beloved, worries still flowed through him.
"Are you sure you're well rested enough for this?" Timon hesitantly asked knowing it was a touchy subject
"I have to be" Alexis replied and seeing the argument coming she continued "Every hour that passes drains more from her. Her essence is fading. I have to at least try."
The Balam grudgingly gave in to her words. He saw the weakening state of the girl and it concerned him too. Since their escape she had grown weaker more quickly, the father and longer from Her power seemed to rapidly decrease her health. They had to try something. Losing at this stage wasn't an option.
"Fine. I'll let you get set up. Please don't drain yourself too much; you'll be good to no one then." With a peck to her cheek he moved across the camp fire to give his beloved some room.
Alexis took a deep breath and began her work. Closing her eyes she began her passage to the spirit world. Each Shaman had their own animal guide to lead them, as with each delving the pathways were different. Her breaths began to even out as her state of consciousness delved deep, with her heartbeat slowing down to match. Alexis opened her inner-eyes as she walked the entryway to the spirit realm. The roads began to look clearer, as she adjusted herself stepping onto the path, her guide of a raven fluttering just ahead. Silently she stepped forward with purpose following her guide. Unsurprisingly the world around her took on the woods of her camp, as she strode through brambles and bushes. A sharp cry made her look up as her raven now flew in circles around a small clearing up ahead. Striding over she immediately saw what she came for.
In front of her in the middle of a clearing could only be described as an archway big enough for one to walk through at a time. It was a beautiful sight, the columns either side were made of pure white marble that intertwined together at the top to a point where a statue of beautiful golden bird nestled in mid-flight. Fiery script decorated the archway, burning and glowing in a rhythmic dance unfortunately for the Shaman she didn't recognise the language. Through the archway lay an unnerving spectacle, a vortex of sorts with ever-changing shapes and colours swirling in its depths. This was Alexis's way in. This was the young girl's consciousness.
Standing up straight and stepping away a few feet she looked to the sky and held out her hand. Seconds later a black raven perched itself there with no fear of the woman. Alexis gave him a small smile as she gently stroked its wings.
"Thank you. Guide me to where the girl has hidden herself." Seconds later her guide flew straight through the archway disappearing from sight "Well little bird let's see about getting you out of here."
Taking a deep breath Alexis stepped through the vortex, disoriented for a few seconds she kept moving forward. The barrage of colours and blurred images assaulted her. The way to the young woman's mind was chaotic, unlike anything she had experienced before. However underneath all that she a felt an awareness studying her, making sure that all she witnessed was nothing she could fully see or understand. Up ahead Alexis managed to see a steady opening, one that stood out in the swirling surroundings. Picking up her pace and hearing a raven's cry she stepped quickly stepped through meeting a bit of resistance. Alexis gasped as she gazed over the beautiful oasis, marvelling at its serenity. The sky was sapphire blue and the luscious grass was dotted with vibrant wildflowers stretching far out in the distance. Alexis didn't notice at first, the scenery captivated and held her attention, but slowly she began to realise. Her hazel eyes scanned the place and found nothing.
"Where are nature's creatures?" she whispered
No animals were found flying in the sky or scampering in the grass, the oasis before her no matter how bountiful was devoid of life. Crackle! A lightning bolt shot through the darkening sky. A howling wind roared past the Shaman, her blond hair whipped against her face. Alexis quickly pinned her locks back and gulped. The sky was pitch black with the occasional lightning streaking its way across. The greenery underfoot was now dead with baked earth all that remained. 'Why did it change? There were no markers for me to activate or interference on my part. It was such a peaceful place. Familiar too…'
"Who are you?"
Alexis whipped around her eyes widened at the owner "I mean you no harm. I am Alexis, a Shaman and I hail from the Isle."
The young woman with red hair pulled into a messy ponytail stared intensely at her. The Shaman scanned her sleeping friends figure, it was tense and her red-gold flecked eyes were shining with distrust.
"Why are you here?" the girl demanded
"To help you. Do you not know your predicament?" Alexis worriedly asked her, her own fears beginning to grow
"I remember…I…"
The girl suddenly changed, her demeanour went from threatening to afraid. Arms crossed tightly over her chest, eyes shut tightly as if she were in great pain. Desperately wanting to comfort the girl, Alexis knew it wouldn't be taken right. Hazel eyes watched in sorrow as the girl grew more frantic and when red eyes shot open they were full of despair and pain.
"I can't…remember. No…nothings coming to me. I…I…I don't understand." The redhead cried curling her body
Taking a step forward with her hands in a sign of peace, the Shaman soothingly spoke "It's going to be alright. I will help you. You need not be afraid of me."
But the redhead wouldn't be consoled. Taking a step backwards only to collapse to her knees hands holding her head with eyes tightly shut. Alexis rushed forwards couching directly in front of her, wishing she could ease her pain. Her powers only went so far; this was all the woman's doing. Red eyes opened slowly, though somewhat glazed her eyes were filled with anger making Alexis stiffen in fear.
"I thought I made it clear. You are not welcome here." She snarled
"I do not…Who do you think I am?" Alexis asked as she took a few steps away from the angry woman
"Stop with this charade Dark Queen. You will not get your answers from me"
"I am not the Queen my friend. Please relax and clear your mind. Let me explain."
The red-head jumped to her feet and moved swiftly away. Alexis knew it was the spells doing, making her memories foggy and that kept her in the deep sleep. It just didn't help her out at the moment.
Alexis tried one last time "I only wish to help. You are kept asleep and have been for much too long. Do you not wish to see your home? Your friends? Bonded even?"
The young woman looked a little confused at her speech but it quickly vanished "Nice try. I have none of these, after the War I was exiled and have been ever since. There is no one you can harm to get to me now. Enough. Be gone from my mind"
Alexis heaved a heavy sigh as she began to fade. The mental defences of the young woman in front of her pushed her out and not wanting to cause further harm let her. Her last sight was of the redhead alone and scared with no real memory to cling to. 'It's more important than ever to free her from this. She will not last much longer. She may even retreat further.'
It was dawn at the camp, the occupants were wide awake, all except one. Timon was dutifully prodding the embers of the fire getting it ready for the bowl he intended on heating. Cat eyes switched to his charge who was sitting opposite lost in thought. 'Ever since her trip into the young woman's mind, she's been distant. What she saw and felt…the Queen certainly did a number on her. Alexis can only do so much.' Sighing inwardly Timon turned back to his task, though he regularly glance back at Alexis. It didn't take her long to notice his looks, she felt cherished at his behaviour knowing how quickly it can turn into overprotectiveness. Nevertheless her mind was focused on the Delving and in particular the redhead's health. As she had predicted, a full day had since passed and her health was hastily deteriorating. Alexis mulled over the ways in which she could help but even for all her abilities she could only do so much. So preoccupied she jumped when Timon passed the bowl filled with an herbal brew.
"Sorry Alexis. Even you need to rest and something to eat. Fill your belly and maybe your mind will follow." Timon advised her
Gratefully Alexis took the warm brew with a sheepish smile, taking a sip she hummed in pleasure at the taste.
"I am sorry for being distant Timon. My mind has been elsewhere of late."
"I guessed. There is little you can do for her Alexis, as you know yourself. The Isle is the best place for her." Timon stated
Alexis shot him an arch look "Oh? You know how to get there? We have tried to contact them but have received no reply. What is going on?"
"We will continue to try." Looking a little ashamed at forgetting something important "Is there no tonic you can give her?"
"There may be one draught I could use. Though if it will help her or not is another matter…"
Timon caught the unfinished sentence "What is it?"
Alexis shuffled on her log before resolutely turning to face him "The herbs and such I need are not found easily. I know them and I will need to search extensively"
"You cannot be serious Alexis!" Timon shouted looking furious
"What would you suggest?" Rising to her feet "That you instead will go and find them? Ones you know nothing about. Or perhaps we should go together and leave the girl defenceless. Timon I do not suggest this lightly"
Timon ran his fingers through his hair in frustration. The Shaman feeling his defeat stepped around the fire and quickly hugged him.
"I worry Alexis. So much can happen and I will not be able to help." Timon whispered holding her tight
"I'm glad of your worry. But I must do this. I will set off at dawn but first I will show you some ways in which will help you with the girl"
"Well aint this the life?" a sarcastic voice spoke "traipsing through the woods with no idea where we are, where we are going or who we are looking for."
"Yaya!"
A silver-haired young woman pushed through the thick overgrown foliage, her face morphing into a scowl. She had, had enough of the wild forest they had teleported to a few hours ago. With only the barest trace of the escapees to follow they had resolutely set off, determined to scour every inch of the woods if necessary to find something. But that was hours ago. Nothing got under skin than the monotonous repetition of the woods passing by. Even Kagome was getting moody. Shizuma sighed once more as she brushed aside a low hanging branch. 'By fire! It feels like we've been walking around in circles. I hope Chikaru knows what she's doing with those spells. Everything looks the same. I really don't want to spend a night outdoors. Now what…' Shizuma cocked her head to the side as she heard the witch and wolf converse. A quick look to Miyuki confirmed that something was indeed wrong. This wasn't anything new. Coming to a halt the Few stopped in a roughly shaped circle, the centre of attention resting solely on the pair who was now arguing.
"Are you sure about that?" Chikaru demanded with hands on hips
"Of course I am. I wouldn't have said anything otherwise." Yaya fired back
"But that leads in the other direction…"
"I know that! But that's what my…"
Chikaru waved the rest away making Yaya glare at her "It doesn't mean anything. You can be misled you know"
"Oh?" Yaya's eyes widened at her friend's words "So miss smarty ass witch can't be wrong eh?"
"Of course not. But…" Chikaru tried to say
"My senses can work as well as your spells"
Shizuma looked from one friend to the other as they continued their little spat. If she wasn't so irritated she would have enjoyed it, but walking around in the woods with barely a sign made her temper quick to ignite. Glancing at the others she saw the same thing. Exhaling a short sigh she decided to step in.
"When you're both finished." The two girls rant stopped as they stared at the Etoile "Please tell me we aren't lost"
"No." Chikaru reassured everyone
"Then what are you two arguing about?" Miyuki asked crossing her arms
Yaya looked to the witch then to her sempai knowing that it was her turn to clarify "There's another scent I've picked up. It's a mixed smell of wraith and Mythical. It doesn't follow Chikaru-sans spell"
The girls looked at each other digesting the news as best they could. Shizuma was mentally ranting at the new information. Nothing was ever easy for them. 'Why can't we have anything simple? Now we have to make a choice; either to follow the original path or split up to follow both. I don't like the latter.'
"Why are they going in a different direction than Nagisa's? Don't they want her back?" Tamao asked her friend
"I don't know Tamao" Yaya shrugged
"They might have caught whoever escaped with her" Miyuki added
"You think we should check it out?" Shion looked around her
Shizuma let her eyes wander at all her friends seeing the torn decision on each "I think we should check this out. If nothing comes from it we can always track the original trail." Looking over to Chikaru who nodded her head
"All agreed?" Miyuki asked everyone and six heads nodded
"Lead the way Yaya. Everyone else I think it would be best if we are in formation. Just to be safe" Shion told them as she stood to Yaya's right and in no time at all; all were ready and once more trudged onwards.
A blonde haired woman was hunched over a small patch of thick shrubbery, plucking and scourging among its base. A small cry of delight ripped through the woods as Alexis stood tall with her bounty clutched firmly in hand. All her attention was on her task, so the darkened figures that were closing in on her from the shadows of the trees went by unnoticed. Securely tightening the straps on her makeshift basket, filled to the brim with herbs, Alexis turned around to head off back to camp, only to come face to face with a dreaded sight. A couple of wraiths and henchmen serving the Dark One had her fully surrounded. Twirling around in mild panic the unlucky Shaman found no way of escaping.
"Don't bother looking for an escape. We haven't spent these days searching for you to go back empty-handed. But please feel free to try. We can all use the pleasure of stopping you." The clear leader mocked her
Alexis stayed silent. She knew there was no way she could fight her way out of this, there were too many. Plus she didn't think that talking would help either. Hazel eyes continued to roam, dismissing the man coming towards her. Roughly Alexis was spun around to face him, her hands jerked upwards with a rope quickly binding them tight together. Once more she was a prisoner. This time she was alone.
Nobody saw the trees shift as all eyes were on the Shaman. Figures moved stealthily between the shadows of the trees, encompassing the small group before them. It was a pause just before a battle that finally alerted the henchmen of their presence as they all stiffened and cautiously prepared themselves. Alexis even felt the tense mood as she shuffled her feet, carefully nudging the dropped basket closer to her. Her bindings forgotten by the men even the wraiths as they took point. It was deathly still and silent. No one moved. So it was a shock to all present, when a red spell shot from the tree line striking one man, who flew hard into a tree knocking him unconscious. All hell broke loose.
Alexis ducked as more spells and other gifts were flying around as she protectively cradled the basket to her chest as best she could. Looking up she saw with astonishment young girls fighting the Squad, two of which were standing protectively over her. Alexis tore her eyes from her guards to the main battle and frankly she was astounded. A Wolf had pinned down a wraith tearing into it with no quarter and a Medusa was darting between two other wraiths with small daggers that had a soft green glow. Flicking her gaze to the other side she saw three more young women dodging and sending their innate gifts, one suited in armour, another decked with spells whilst the last used fire as their forte. It was all too much for Alexis as she stayed very still not wanting to disrupt the flawless team effort before her. Wraith and men continued their attack, using brute force to try and win the upper hand, yet still they lost ground. Each attack was thwarted and countered. Alexis watched as a beautiful young woman with hair of silver, dance her way through attacks reinforcing her friends with fire shields and arrows. It was undoubtedly beautiful to watch. In no time at all the wraiths were destroyed and the men either fled or unconscious.
Shizuma took deep breaths as she took a look around, making sure everyone was alright. She recalled how they followed Yaya's trail, which led them here and just in time too. Thankfully little Kagome had warned them of the Squad before they barged ahead, seeing them take someone hit a raw nerve for them all. A hand on her back jolted her back to the present when she turned to face her best friend, who looked a little breathless herself.
"I thought after those training sessions with Kei I'd last a little longer" Miyuki shook her head good-naturedly
Shizuma stood upright and giggled at her "Getting old Miyuki?"
"Say that again Shizuma!" Miyuki glared at her playfully making her eyes glow a little
Before either could flame or stone one another Shion's voice hollered over to them. Leaving their little teasing behind they quickly made their way over, seeing the new face more clearly. Shizuma did a quick glance over the woman. Her clothes had seen better days all torn and ripped but clean and the slight gauntness to her frame indicated malnutrition. Shizuma had to know what the woman knew of her time in Queenie's cells.
"Thank you kindly for your assistance" the woman spoke gratefully as Shion cut the bindings away
"You're welcome" Shion nodded her head
"Are you hurt?" Chikaru asked giving her a cursory look over
The blond woman shook her head as she picked up the basket "I am fine. However I am shocked to find help so available out here."
Shizuma carefully went over her words as she spoke "We were tracking something important and by chance found you. It's a personal matter when the Squads take people by force."
Miyuki was watching her friend carefully and hearing the slight tremor laid a gentle hand on her arm in support. Turning to face the rescued woman she spoke "Why are you out here all alone?"
"We have one with us whom is quite ill. Timon is guarding her whilst I find some much-needed medical herbs. Unfortunately I'm not very good at keeping watch." Looking a little sheepish
"Must be important to send a rookie on alone" Yaya thoughtlessly said
"Yaya" Tamao gave her a little glare followed by a quick bop to the head courtesy of Shion
"It's quite alright and very much true." The woman smiled a little at their antics "Oh I'm Alexis by the way"
Shizuma did the quick introductions. After everyone introduced themselves, Alexis offered them a warm place at their camp which was accepted gratefully and the chance to talk more comfortably. As they walked the girls pounded her with questions, albeit a little less demanding since Miyuki was keeping a watchful eye.
"What brings you this way? There's nothing around for a quite a distance without some mode of transport." Miyuki put in her own question
Alexis looked thoughtful and stopped her travels "I wish to go back to the home of my birth as does Timon. To answer your question more fully, I have to admit I thought you knew what I was. I am a Shaman and Timon is a Balam a self-appointed protector. I am travelling to the place which you hail from…"
"You're from the Isle?!" Shizuma looked a little stunned.
Alexis held up her hand to forestall more questions "I will answer your questions when we reach camp. I need to check on our companion at any rate."
They walked the rest of the way in silence both thoughtful and full of curiosity. Off the well-travelled path they cut through hedges and bushes and trekked a little father into the dense wilderness. Shizuma didn't mind the trek as such, it was the trust she was placing into an unknown person that got to her.
"Who goes there" roared a stern voice
Shizuma stopped dead in her tracks making Miyuki bump into her and a domino effect soon came into play. Many shot the Etoile a dirty look, for she could have said she was stopping. Alexis shook her head with exasperation as she yelled back "By the spirits Timon who else would it be making a racket like that?"
Moving on ahead a bit, they saw a neat little cave hidden slightly with all the vines and thickets. More importantly was the one who stood tall and strong in front of it looking relieved at the sight of his beloved. He rushed towards her bringing her into a bone crushing hug never once sparing the Astraea girls a second glance.
"I am so glad you're back. I don't know what else to do; I did as you told me but…" Timon blurted out looking quite upset
"She has taken the turn for the worse?" Alexis suddenly appearing wiser and in control before she took a second to explain to their guests "Please excuse me but I must see to her at once"
Shizuma watched as she ran into the small cave before turning her full attention on Timon, who looked at them with sharp cat's eyes. Several returned the gesture in kind.
"Please forgive our intrusion into your camp, Alexis was kind enough to offer since we helped her on the road earlier." Shizuma tried to defuse the situation before it got out of control.
"Then you have my thanks in helping her. I would have gone if it weren't for the girl" Timon bowed his head
"She also mentioned the fact you were heading to the Isle." Shizuma pointed out
Timon gestured for them to sit around the fire, where he unhurriedly prepared some boiled water. The girls gave him the time needed to put things into words, the ability to trust anyone in this war was hard done.
"We are indeed from the Isle. A year ago Alexis had the urge to go to the human realm and so I went with her. Yet within a few months we were seized by men bearing the emblem of one who we thought was long gone, yet we were soon to realise that to be untrue. To the Dark Queen we were presented and have been all this time. We were locked away deep in the bowels of a haunted place. We three escaped and are trying to get back home yet the portals are sealed."
"War is going on between the Mythical and the majority of the Few against the Dark Queen. They have reached the Isle that's why the portals are locked" Chikaru told him
"That explains a lot" Timon muttered
"Who is this girl you travel with?" Tamao asked
"We don't know her name." Timon looked to the confused faces of his guests "She was thrown into the cell with us, set into a deep slumber of sorts. She must have been important to the Dark Queen since repeatedly she had been taken away only to be thrown back in hours later"
Shizuma felt something at his words, something unexplainable yet undeniably familiar. Anticipation raged in her bones as Yaya asked the question that would change the course of their scout.
"Why bring her along? Is she that important to you both?" Yaya questioned
"Because of what she is and what she will do." The serene voice of Alexis startled them
She sat down by her protector and leaned into him with a quick movement an arm went around her shoulder and pulled her securely into his side. Shizuma barely breathed as she waited for the answer.
"The girl is important, for the war rests more squarely on her shoulders than ever. She is the defining balance of the light. I have seen that she will rise from the ashes and will give hope to many" Alexis smiled softly at her words
"Sounds like someone we know" Tamao told her with pride
Shizuma just knew that those words were the right ones. It sounded so much like Nagisa she just had to ask "What does she look like?"
Alexis threw her a quizzical look then her eyes seemed to widen in recognition "She is about your shoulder height, nicely shaped with muscles knowing good exercise. Shoulder length red hair and pretty red eyes. Oh and she has a scar on her upper right side."
Shizuma was as still as a statue. Her mouth hung open in pure shock. The words kept repeating themselves over and over in her mind not sinking in fully. She didn't realise she stood shakily on her feet, barely holding herself upright if it weren't for Chikaru to hold her steady. The Etoile tried to speak yet no words came out. A blunette came to her rescue, yet her voice betrayed her anxiety as well.
"May Shizuma-san see her? It's very important" Tamao stuttered
"Of course." Alexis looked from one girl to the other different stages of shock appeared on their faces "Follow me"
Shizuma held on tight to Chikaru, needing the pillar of strength and support she desperately lacked. So arm in arm they followed after the Shaman into the small dimly lit cave. A pallet soon came into view with the occupant still hidden. Alexis fiddled with the blankets and stepped to the side to give the two easier movements. A short whimper flew from Shizuma's throat. There on the pallet deathly white, with deep bruising under the eyes laid a familiar deeply missed figure. Shizuma dropped to her knees right by the patient's side and started to cry.
Chikaru with tears of happiness mixed with concern at her friend's state spared a glance at the Shaman before running back outside to where her friends now stood up, they had all heard the cry and wondered if they should enter or not.
"Chikaru what's going on?" Shion came alongside her friend
"Is it…" Tamao didn't dare wish any further
Chikaru beamed a full smile "It's Nagisa. We've found her"