Shou was angry. No, angry would be an understatement. He was raging mad. It took a huge effort not to unload his rage on his companions. His anger had not dissipated in the past 2 days, in fact it only worsened when the heavens mocked him with unrelenting rain. The injured Tora trailing at the back of their little group did not help either. He glared back at the said man.
"We should rest here. It is pointless to continue further tonight." Saga suggested, placing a calming hand on Shou. He quickly let the hand fall as if burned by the look Shou sent him.
"I second that. We can barely see 5 feet ahead of us and Tora needs to rest." said Hiroto. He did not seem affected by Shou's obvious bad mood.
"Have you gone out of your bloody minds? Do you really think that bitch would let us go so easily?" Shou growled.
"But there has been no sign of anyone following us." Saga argued calmly. Without warning, Shou's fist collided with his face. The force of his attack sent Saga sprawling on the muddy ground. He smirked at the pained groan that escaped Saga. His anger abated slightly.
"Then you're more stupid than I thought." He spat.
"And you," he directed his glare at Tora, "You're slowing us down. If you can't master your pain then what good are you? You've just worthless."
Silence greeted his words. As though moving in a trance, Hiroto who had been supporting Tora's weight on him, moved away closer to Shou. Leaving Tora to stand hunched, clutching the cloth around his wound protecting it from the harsh rain.
"You don't mean that." Saga protested standing up slowly.
"I do actually. He is no longer of use to me. Even he himself knows that, don't you Tora?" receiving no reply, he smiled at Saga. Anyone with a half a brain could tell it was not made of rainbows and sunshine. Saga looked like he wanted to protest further. Shou made it easy for him.
"If you want to be left behind with him. I can easily help you." He drew his long dagger, to make his intention clear.
Tora winced from the occasional shots of pain his shoulder was sending to his brain. But even then, Shou's words hurt more. Tora wasn't the type of person to show off his emotions though so he put on the same indifferent mask he always has.
"Saga, let it go," Tora said calmly. He straightened up, pretending not to care about the throbbing discomfort in his shoulder. Saga glared at Shou but he knew better than to argue with him. Shou called all the shots here. Defying him would be like digging your own grave.
Shou smirked, sheathing his weapon. "I admire your momentary stroke of cleverness." He mocked. His rage was slowly leaving him. Sometimes he loved having his inferiors around.
"Don't die in the open. The vultures can be vicious." He told Tora. Turning his back on the man, he walked away. This time the rain did not bother him so much and his steps aren't heavy with rage. He did not spare another glance nor thought on Tora. He was already planning. Things did not go as it should have. It was all that woman's fault. He wanted his revenge and he was going to get it. It would be even better to throw in Uruha as well, after he fulfilled his purpose of course. They should suffer.
Shou heard his two remaining companions trudging along behind him. Hiroto hummed a familiar tune. Unconsciously, Shou began to sing along.
"Can we please get something to eat here?" the annoying whine of Hiroto grated on his nerves. Shou did not hide his annoyance. They had journeyed throughout the night till mid morning when they had come upon the small settlement. He had not thought of food until the word 'eat' had reminded his stomach that it was empty. He had been busy plotting in his head.
"I'll get the wolves." Saga offered. He shot Saga a suspicious look, but decided he didn't have the guts to do something stupid.
"Fine. We'll be in the tavern." Saga left wordlessly, heading to the farm on the edge of the village. The farmers had been bribed to keep their wolves ready so they can travel the rest of their journey on them. Shou ran a hand through his slightly damp hair. Good thing the rain had let up some time ago. With the cloaks and hoods, they would've drawn unwanted attention in that little village.
As the two of them walked towards the only tavern in the village, Shou scanned the place for any signs of soldiers. He relaxed a little seeing none in the area, that doesn't mean there weren't spies around. He placed a pretty smile on his lips and an innocent expression on his face. He was not ignorant of his ability to charm people into complete fools. It was quite easy. Just as Shou reached to enter the tavern, a girl came barrelling straight into his arms.
"Oh I'm so sorry." The girl said shyly, quickly stepping away from him. Shou hid his thoughts of stabbing the girl a few times to show her he doesn't appreciate people bumping into him. Instead he smiled at her sweetly.
"The fault is my own, fair lady." He told her. He stepped away, making room for her to pass. The girl returned his smile as she left.
"That's almost disgusting." Hiroto commented, cheerfully. Shou ignored him.
It wasn't until the three of them were riding away on the wolves after filling their stomachs with food and Shou reached into his pocket to touch his treasured possession that he realized, it was gone. All he extracted from his pocket was a small ugly carved stone that grinned up at him mockingly. His ring was nowhere to be found. The rage that had possessed him the day before returned in full force.
Uruha sat in a daze, staring into the roaring fire that lit up the night sky in an enchanting shade of crimson and gold. The day had been tiring indeed but he had to admit he had fun. A strange, otherworldly type of fun that never in his wildest imaginations he thought he could have.
People were circling the huge fire, happily throwing in barley and occasionally singing merry tunes. Children were laughing and running around with their friends and the elderly looked upon them with kind but protective eyes.
Here he was, sitting on a stone bench in the most unusual place he had ever been in filled with people he doesn't know at all, and he felt like he belonged. It scared him a little bit.
"Uruha," a familiar voice called out to him from behind. Uruha turned to see Reita, barley in his hands, approaching him casually. "What are you doing sitting here all by yourself?" Reita asked, "Look at Kai, he's having fun!"
Uruha's eyes followed Reita's and sure enough Kai was fitting right in, talking fluidly to a group of cute girls who were drinking in his every word with awe on their faces. Uruha couldn't help but smile. Kai may pretend like he's a shy guy with pure intentions and girls just 'naturally' like him. It's a load of crap. Being a 'natural' smooth talker is one of Kai's talents.
Uruha's smile faded, replaced with a slight gasp when his eyes landed on Kiera. She stood, leaning against a pillar and staring into the fire. She wasn't wearing her normal hulking armour anymore. Her hair lay in graceful curls of dark copper, emerging from a beautiful crown of flowers. Amongst the joyful crowd, she wore a distant forlorn look on her face as the fire danced in her eyes. Uruha's swallowed, his hands and feet getting cold despite the warm atmosphere.
"Uruha?" Reita asked, looking at him with concern, "You look pale."
"I'm fine," Uruha replied hurriedly. He got up with new vigor and made his way towards Kiera. Realizing it would be weird and ... embarrassing... to just go up to her and say hi without any reason, Uruha turned back.
"Problem?" questioned Reita, a smile plastered on his face. It seems like he had caught onto Uruha's train of thought.
"Let me borrow some," Uruha mumbled, grabbing the barley from Reita's hands and rushing towards Kiera before Reita could tease him.
Kiera didn't seem to have noticed Uruha, still staring into the fire, her thoughts elsewhere. It was like she walked out of a painting. Uruha wished she would stay like this all the time instead of the unfeminine bulk of metal she always wore.
"K-kiera," Uruha blurted out, "Do you want to th-throw the barley into the fire? W-with me?" Uruha felt his face reddening. Why is he asking this like he's asking her to dance? Is throwing barley even a two-person job?
Kiera had been reminiscing past times. That was until Uruha asked her to throw the barley together with him. Surely he did not think it required 2 people to do it. She had not seen him for the whole day. Though it was a festival, she had not been able to get into the celebrations until nightfall. She had to oversee the security measures of the castle.
The light of the great fire crafted shadows on his face, making it even prettier. Feeling somewhat relaxed in the festive atmosphere, she smiled up at him. She opened her palm under his extended arm, wordlessly accepting his request.
Uruha tried to hide his childish happiness at Kiera's acceptance. They walked towards the fire, the warmth of it inviting. Even though there were many people around them being loud and boisterous, Uruha felt like they were in their own little world.
Uruha stretched out his hand so she can take the barley from him. She looked slightly hesitant, although he wasn't sure why. He hoped he wasn't making her uncomfortable. It's incredibly stupid but really all he wanted to do right now was throw barley with her.
He grasped her hand abruptly, surprising himself, but placed the barley in her palm. "Y-you look really pretty Kiera," Uruha decided to say, staring into her greyish green eyes. In the red light from the fire, Uruha couldn't tell if it made her blush, but he hoped it did.
A sudden gust of wind blew around them, disheveling Kiera's hair. A stray strand of brown covered her lips and Uruha's eyes fixated on it. Not thinking straight and his brain clearly having lost all control of his fingers, Uruha promptly raised his hand to brush away the hair, his thumb grazing the edge of her lip slightly. AHH what has he done to a Marshal? Uruha doesn't know what the rules are in this world, but even on earth, touching the face of a high ranking official without warning is really inappropriate!
It seemed as if the world fell silent. Kiera felt hot and cold at the same time. It wasn't the heat of the fire that heated her face. She knew she was staring up at him wide eyed but she couldn't stop. She wanted to run but yet she wanted to stay exactly where she was. A panicked look crossed his features. Perhaps she should say something to ease him. She did not let anyone touch her without permission but this time, it didn't occur to her to get angry for it. Kiera realized he still held her hand.
"You...wanted to throw the barley." She told him, surprised at how soft her voice sounded. This was not good.
"Yes Uruha, you wanted to throw the barley." Reita's voice broke the spell. Kiera pulled away from Uruha instinctively. She saw the sudden flash of disappointment on his face. It would be a lie to say she did not feel the tiny disappointment as well. Reita slung his arms around both her and Uruha. Kiera wondered if she was thankful or resentful of Reita's interference. Perhaps a little bit of both.
Uruha scowled at Reita for destroying their little moment. "Yeah I'm throwing the damn barley," he hissed at Reita. Pushing away from his friend, he sourly flung the barley into the fire. His sulking expression changed within seconds as he faced Kiera and smiled pleasantly. "Aren't you throwing too?"
Kai had been watching with amusement at Uruha's antics. But unlike Reita he had chosen not to disturb. It was always Reita who had the worst timing when it comes to 'special' moments. Maybe he should interfere, Uruha was sulking. With Kiera's back to him, he could not tell what her expression was. Kai saw her throw the barley into the fire. Kai turned on his dimpled smile at the girls near him, in apology before walking towards his two friends.
"You shouldn't touch people's faces suddenly, its rude." He heard Reita say, his teasing grin all too obvious. Kai suppressed his own laughter.
"Its also rude to interrupt people." Kai told him. Reita still had his arm around Kiera. Kai discreetly nudged him, hoping he would drop the arm. Unfortunately Reita ignored the action.
Uruha sighed in defeat. It doesn't seem like they'll have any more privacy now. "Do you want to throw the rest of my barley, Kai?" Uruha asked, shoving the barley into his friend's chest. All his earlier excitement of throwing barley had dissipated. It may be passed off as a 2-person job but it most certainly is not a 4-person job.
"Um yeah that's MY barley," Reita interjected childishly.
Kiera rolled her eyes heavenward. This was getting ridiculous. Taking the situation in her own hands, quite literally, she grabbed Uruha's arm.
"Let us be seated. All of us." She smiled invitingly at Reita and Kai as she dragged the sullen Uruha away to one of the wooden tables laden with food.
"Stop being an ass." She heard Kai whisper.
The three of them sat, Uruha and Kai opposing Reita. Before she could take her seat beside Reita, a flamboyantly dressed man approached her. Kiera instantly recognized him as the King's richest subject; Marquis Le'Blanc. He had recently inherited the title and vast wealth after the death of his father.
"You look mighty lovely this evening, Kiera." He said, giving her a charming smile. "I meant to give this to compliment your beauty but now that I stand before you, the flower would dim beside your radiance."
Her skin crawled at his words but she kept her face neutral. It would not do to offend him with her disgust.
"She doesn't like flowers." Reita commented dismissively. The Marquis's expression changed.
"I had not known you would be here, Lord Rei."
Reita got up facing the Marquis, casually leaning his arm on her shoulder. "How could I leave my dear Kiera to attend the festival without me?"
If Reita was any less powerful, without a doubt the Marquis would have hit him. But as things were, he knew not to push his luck.
"I shall leave this in your care, Kiera." He thrust a pink rose into her hands then with a scowl directed at Reita, he was gone.
Kiera wondered if he heard her rushed, "Enjoy your evening."
"Oh Kiki, he actually thought you would like pink flowers!" Reita guffawed, dropping back into his seat. Kiera shrugged. She placed the rose on the table in front of her. She was unsure what to do with it. It may not be the first time she had been given flowers but she had always felt awkward with what to do with them after. She couldn't throw it away...if the Marquis saw that, she would have caused unnecessary strife. When she looked up from the rose, it was only to see Uruha's scowl. It was directed at the innocent pink rose.
Uruha glared at the rose on the table. The rose wasn't even that pretty. Kiera didn't seem to like it... so she doesn't like flowers. He should make a mental note. Wonder what she likes? Chocolate perhaps! Everyone likes chocolates... are chocolates popular in this world though? Do they even exist? Ah maybe ice cream would be better! Um... yeah there aren't any refrigerators... would there be ice cream?
"Uruha... you have a very stoned face expression," Reita interrupted Uruha's thoughts.
Before Uruha could retort, Reita had started talking again but in a different tone. "We need to plan for Uruha's journey," he said seriously, "It's going to be a tough one."
"I have ordered the gifts for the Oracle to be made." said Kiera, "The honorary guard is being assembled as well."
Reita nodded thoughtfully.
Uruha bit his lip slightly in anxiety. Honorary guard sounded scary. Was it anything like those bodyguards Gazette had? One time when a crazy stalker fan had become too attached to him, the company assigned this big burly man who looked ready to murder anyone to follow Uruha around all the time... Uruha remembered thinking having the crazy stalker fan following him was much more preferable.
"Um... so who's the honorary guard?" Uruha asked nervously.
"Depends on how many Kiki is planning." said Reita. Kiera had been considering this as she inspected the list of candidates the day before.
"I have yet to seek the King's acquiescence; however it would most likely be 4. Have no fear, Uruha. I would not send a defenseless man on a treacherous journey without a proper guard."
Uruha paused to think for a while. He knew Reita and Kai would be coming with him, because they have to. He's not budging without them. And there's another person he wants to come with him too...
"Kiera," Uruha said earnestly, intensely staring into her eyes, "You're coming with me." He had initially planned on ASKING her but for some reason he realized it wasn't a question. She has to go with him. If she says no, Uruha can see a childish temper tantrum on its way so she had better agree.
Tendrils of irritation were seeping into her veins. Dare he command her! Like a common wench! She refused to allow the small traitorous feeling of unreasonable happiness to surface. Besides, the irritation was greater. With difficulty Kiera managed to rein in her anger from lashing out.
"No one commands me but the King, Uruha. It would serve you well to keep that thought in your head." She said, in an even tone.
"And you forget her position." Reita put in.
"Lord Rei is right. I cannot abandon my responsibilities. The King has need of me."
Yeah, she's done it. She refused him! How could she? She has never once treated him nicely and as Uruha sees it, she owes him.
"Alright, so the King commands you but he wants ME to go on that journey!" Uruha replied arrogantly, "If you're not coming, I'm NOT going and that's that."
Uruha stood up and casually walked towards a big oak tree beside their table. "If you all plan to DRAG me there literally, I'll chain myself to this tree," declared Uruha, patting the tree trunk decisively, "So there."
Can this man be anymore childish? Kiera made a sound of exasperation. Beside her Reita was roaring in laughter. He wasn't going to be much help in this strange situation she found herself in. Kai sent her an apologetic look from across the table.
"Come on, Uruha. I don't think that's a good idea." Kai tried to persuade him.
"It makes no difference to me should you decide to carry out your threat. Indulge my curiosity, why would you want me to accompany you on the journey? As you yourself claimed, I have been nothing but hostile to you."
Uruha blushed at Kiera's argument. Truth is, he didn't understand why he desperately wanted her to come either.
"B-because," Uruha stuttered, his face turning red, "I..." No, he couldn't answer at all.
Instead, Uruha backed into the tree and sat himself down in front of it, folding his arms. "Whatever," he mumbled, "I'm going to stay by this tree then."
Kai wasn't quite sure what to do but he felt he should somehow diffuse the situation. Reita being useless as he is and after all Kai was the leader. He should help his guitarist. If Uruha refuses to go then how would they get home? Kai walked to Kiera, her expression unreadable.
"I'm sure Uruha feels we'd be safer if you came with us. I feel the same way too." He told her smoothly. He wasn't lying either. Even though Reita was coming along and everyone seems to think he was some kick ass powerful warrior, Kai had his doubts. It was Reita...their dorky goofy bassist. It was hard to imagine.
"Hey! I find that insulting you know." Reita objected. Kai waved his hand dismissively. The tension left Kiera's shoulders.
"My apologies, Kai. I truly do not have the liberty to do that. However, should the King command me to follow you then it would be my honour to do so."
Her eyes slid from his face to Uruha's sulking figure behind them. Kai followed her gaze. He could not help smiling at his friend. Although he tried to pretend otherwise, it was so obvious, he had been eagerly listening to them.
Uruha suddenly got up and dusted himself off, recovering from his tantrum at a speed that surprised himself.
"Alright, then I'm going to talk to the King! Take me to him!" he said as he smiled broadly, happy that at least all hope is not lost.
Kiera closed her eyes, breathing deeply. The man was utterly impossible and selfish! It would be unseemly if she threw something at him thus she firmly kept her hands away from the tempting goblets on the table.
"I refuse." She grounded out. Not sparing another glance or word she left the scene. He was much safer that way.
"Reita can help, right?" Kai asked, giving pointed looks at him. He wasn't sure if Reita got his silent message. Thankfully he did.
"Fine fine, I'll take him to the King." Reita grumbled, "You better appreciate me for this."
Uruha walked with Reita on their way to the King, trying his best to come up with suitable words for the King. He's never been good at making deals with people. That was actually Kai's talent. And this time, he's actually talking to a KING from another world... he really hoped things go well.
"Why do you want Kiera to come?" asked Reita suddenly, the smirk on his face indicating that he already guessed the answer.
"What's it to you?" retorted Uruha, "You don't want your precious KIKI traveling with me or something? Are you jealous or something?"
Reita sighed, "Oi..." But Uruha kept going, unaware of Reta's response.
"Cuz you know, I don't have any ulterior motives or anything. Like, I'm not asking her to come just because she's cute. I mean, yeah I do think she's cute but that's not the reason I want her to come. I just think she looks like someone I can trust y'know."
"Uruha!" Reita tried to interrupt again but Uruha was just really on a roll. He has no idea how to stop; it's like his mouth wasn't listening to anything.
"I don't know what wrong idea you're getting but it's not what you think it is," Uruha said hastily, "It's just because, like, I don't know anyone in this world and Shou and the oth-"
"URUHA!" Reita laughed, finally stopping and putting his hands on Uruha's shoulders, "Relax! I get it."
Uruha only grunted in response, out of breath from the word vomit earlier. He could feel his face getting flushed.
"Although..." Reita continued as they neared a grand room guarded by many soldiers which Uruha assumed the King was in, "If I were you... I wouldn't say any of the stuff you just said to me if the King asks you the same question."
"R-right," Uruha replied nervously as they entered the room.
King Sondalle had been enjoying his wine and a lapful of his concubine while watching his people dance around the great fire. He had seen his Marshal striding away from the festivities. He noted the irritation so apparent on her face wondering what could have been the cause. That was until his eyes landed on the party that approached him. The King smiled.
"I feel an aura of determination about you, Uruha. Should you not be enjoying the festivities? Or are the feast and the beautiful maidens of my castle not to your taste?" The King conversed jovially. At a slight gesture, his concubine left them.
The king seemed to be in a good enough mood. Perhaps this won't go as badly as Uruha had expected.
He and Reita both bowed and after they rose and Uruha stared into the King's eyes, he started to panic.
"Uh, um," Uruha said, "Th-the festival is awesome. The food and ... um, the pretty ladies rock too."
The King seemed absolutely puzzled at his words. Reita slowly turned and gave Uruha a look of utter disbelief as if to say 'are you an idiot?'
"I mean," Uruha quickly corrected himself, forgetting that his modern-day manner of talking must sound like gibberish in this world, "Your festival is very jubilant. The fair maidens and scrumptious dishes are also to my liking. I shalt thank thee for-"
"Uruha," Reita hissed at him under his breath, "Just talk normally."
Uruha cleared his throat in embarassment. "Ac-actually," he started, realizing that the king's good mood seemed to be wavering towards confusion, "I-I- h-have something to-"
"Your majesty," Reita said fluidly, interrupting Uruha's stammers, "Uruha wishes to discuss an important matter with you."
"Yes," Uruha agreed firmly, thankful for Reita's intervention, "What he said."
"What burdens your mind? Speak. I shan't begrudge for it." Though the King outwardly regarded them in a friendly manner, his mind ran wild with questions. Without a doubt, he knew something important looms ahead and he wished Kiera attended him.
Uruha put on a serious face. "It's about Kiera, sir."
Another death glare from Reita made Uruha quickly add, "Your majesty."
The king looked thoughtful, gesturing for him to continue.
"I'd like her to come with me... on my journey to the Oracle," Uruha said in one breath, getting it over with.
The King frowned. "Pray tell, why would you want Kiera? If you speak of protection, Lord Rei is more than competent to fill the role and he be your friend. You have no need of my Marshal."
Kiera halted in her steps. The light of the full moon decorated the empty hall. Away from the sounds of merry making, the hallway was bathed in silence. She leaned against a marble pillar, turning her face up to the moon. Her mind and irritation had gone strangely calm. How did he rile her anger so easily?
The noise of something breaking alerted her that she was no longer alone. She hoped it was not Uruha. Upon seeing the intruder of her peaceful moment, she pushed away from the pillar. Raising her brows, she questioned him wordlessly.
"The king needs you." The little demon said simply, biting off another large chunk of his candy. Kiera sighed.
"Lead me to him."
Yes, Reita had warned him but still, the King was quite straightforward and Uruha couldn't help but be at a loss for words. He looked unyielding. Man, if only he'd become a lawyer instead of a musician...
"Uh," Uruha started, "B-because... Reita- I mean, Lord Rei is my friend." He is stating the obvious... not going well at all. He should bluff perhaps... or would that be worse?
"If I betray your wishes and decide to go back to my world instead of going on the journey," Uruha said, "Lord Rei won't stop me... but Kiera would."
At first, Uruha felt confident with his argument... before realizing that it was the most stupid thing anyone's ever said. If he'd intended to betray in the first place, like hell he'd ask Kiera to come! Uruha turned to Reita for help, sending telepathic signals of desperation. But Reita had his head bowed, exasperation written on his face.
Kiera's state of calm evaporated the moment she laid eyes on the two figures facing the King. She caught the eyes of the King as she approached. He was not in ill humour but he was not at all pleased either. She had the sinking feeling she knew the cause of his discomfort. The music of the festival hid the sounds of her steps as she came upon them.
"You called for me, Sire?" At the sudden intrusion of her voice, Uruha's body seem to stiffen.
"Uruha tells me, he wish you to accompany him on his journey. What have you to say, Kiera?"
Kiera never got to reply. Barely a breath has passed before the music faltered. The music and laughter died, as though all sounds of life had been obliterated. The moonlight seemed to gain in intensity. Kiera's hand instinctively flitted to her blades, only to realize she was not wearing them. At the edge of her vision, she saw Reita straighten up, his entire being taut with tension.
"Does my visit alarm you so?" a melodious voice came. They did not have to question the identity of the owner. All tension seem to drain out of Reita as he too realized who it was that spoke. Not missing a heartbeat, Kiera sank to her knees.
"Lady Artemis. You honour us with your presence." It was the King that spoke.
As the voice interrupted them, Uruha had a sense of déjà vu wash over him. It was just like a few days before, when those invisible voices disrupted them when Shou and the others were attacking. Uruha felt his anxiety rising. He hoped something like what happened before, with Saga suddenly being possessed, wouldn't occur today, especially since Kai is here.
But when Uruha saw the appearance of the girl who came into view, he was both surprised and relieved. For one thing, she was quite young, probably no older than 18. She wore a short white dress that was strangely similar to modern summer wear clothes. Her hair was long and matched the colour of her round innocent-looking eyes. The girl stared straight at Uruha with an expression he couldn't really decipher.
"C-cute," Uruha whispered to himself. He'd always wanted a little sister to protect and this girl right here had the exact appearance of one. Although... she probably does not need any protection.
Kiera glared at Uruha with thinly veiled annoyance. Will this man never learn? She was close enough to hear his whisper, no doubt the goddess heard as well.
"Is that what you think, mortal?" said the goddess, "I shall forgive you this once. I have come to bestow a favour upon you after all."
The goddess eyes fell on Kiera, the smile that lit her face only brought anxiety to Kiera. "I admire the great love and loyalty you bear for your King. You have yet to take a lover and so long as you remain thus, you shall receive my blessing."
Kiera face burned at her words. She could feel the eyes of all the men around them. The goddess looked at her expectantly.
"Thank you."
"Forgive me for intruding, my Lady. What favor do you speak of?" said the King, leading the attention away from Kiera. Kiera thanked him silently.
"The Fates have spoken. Your place is no longer within these walls that you so ardently defend. At least not for some time to come." Artemis's eyes remained on Keira. Her heart thundered in her ribs. Could it be...?
Kiera seemed adamant about not leaving the place but Uruha felt that the authority to decide that has shifted to this young girl. Whoever she was, she must be regarded with great respect.
"Uruha," the girl said, now walking towards him in a strange, almost drifting manner. A beautiful smile lit up her face "You should be grateful. I'm granting your wish."
She then turned to Kiera, her face still genial, but her voice suggesting resolution, "You are to accompany Uruha on his journey."
Kiera's heart sank. Even the mere thought of leaving the city and the King unprotected made her guts crawl with dread. She looked at the King's face. His expression glum.
"And what of me? Who would command my army? Are my men to be left vulnerable without their commander?" the King asked.
"You are hardly defenseless. Find a replacement if you must." countered the goddess, she held up a hand stopping the King from further speech, "Do you seek to challenge me?"
The air seems to close in around them like a wall. The threat so dominant in her tone; the King relented. Kiera bit her lip to stop herself from arguing with the goddess. Suddenly the oppressive atmosphere was gone. Artemis's expression turned gentle.
"Heed my words. You shall soon see the light behind them." she said softly, regarding the King.
And with that final note, the girl disappeared. Uruha had to take a double take to register what just happened.
"King Sondalle," Reita's voice interrupted his shock, "What is your answer?"
Uruha shook away the confusion of the girl's vanishing and turned his attention to the King and Kiera. Kiera was staring at her King with curiosity and worry. Her evident dislike of leaving with Uruha made him very agitated. If the King ever agreed to let her leave, Uruha swore he's going to make her not regret it one bit.
"So be it. Kiera shall go with you." The King said finally, "Know that you have taken not just the commander of my army but my closest friend as well."
Kiera went to her King then. "I will return without delay, I swear it."
He smiled at her somewhat lifting the dread that pooled in her stomach.
"I tire of celebrations. Enjoy the evening gentlemen, or what is left of it." he said, slipping back into his usual good humor. Watching the king leave, her mind began to lay plans.
If she were to leave, she needed someone to take her place. Distracted by a sudden thought, she frowned. Artemis's words came back to her. The Fates wanted her to go with Uruha and Artemis herself had delivered the message. Ieros Victoria had implied that Uruha was important. What power does he hold that was gathering this kind of attention? No, she would think of it another time. She needed to plan for the safety of the King and the kingdom.
Still deep in her thoughts, she did not notice the music that had started again and the laughter and singing that accompanied it. She felt a hand wrap around her wrist.
"Don't worry so much." Reita said comfortingly. She stared at him a moment before disengaging him hand.
"We leave at sunset on the morrow." Not sparing a glance at Uruha, she left them. In her mind, she was busy listing all the things that needed her attention. There was so much to be done before the sun sets the next evening.
It took a moment for Uruha to actually realize that he'd gotten his way. He didn't know what the strange girl earlier was talking about and even though it seemed quite serious, he was genuinely happy and pushed away the thought.
"Kiera, see you're coming with-" Uruha turned to gloat at her but she didn't even make eye contact with him, hurriedly rushing out of his sight. Uruha frowned. What's her problem? Did she hate him THAT much?
Pale light of the early morning sun crept in through the windows of Kiera's office. She paid no mind to it though. She was pouring over the map that lay before her. Even with a long journey looming ahead, she had not managed to get much sleep during the night. Kiera was worried. There was no other way to describe it. She had already selected the men that would take up her duties in her absence. It was not that what plagued her mind. It was Uruha. Things did not make much sense at the moment and that made her anxious.
A loud knock on the door interrupted her train of thoughts.
"Enter."
A tall dark haired man entered, giving her a respectful bow. "I come baring news of the rebels, Marshal." Kiera indicated for him to continue, apprehension seeping in.
"My spies tell me, they have taken wolves from a farm at a small settlement. Out of five, two were without riders when they set off yesterday."
"Are they still headed south?"
"Aye."
Kiera was thoughtful. "Does this farm breed wolves? Is the owner one of the rebels?"
"It was but a greedy farmer. He was bribed into keeping the wolves."
Kiera dismissed the man, mulling over the new information. There were 4 of them when they escaped, assuming the injured one was dead...who was the other wolf for? Uruha? That was not possible...even if they had a demon...they could not have known of Uruha mere hours after his arrival. She recalled Ieros Victoria, she had said the Nerieh had been aware of his coming. They had even been preparing for it. Could the rebels have known as well? How?
The news greatly disturbed her. The only conclusion she can draw from it was that they had been planning that little excursion. At the heart of all this mystery was Uruha. Kiera was still in her thoughts when the doors of the office flung open. Her office suddenly seemed small at the crowd that barged in uninvited. Not that the King needed invitation but the rest of them surely did. Kiera eyed a sleepy eyed Reita and Kai. Uruha on the other hand seemed wide awake.
"Your Majesty, I did not think you would rise so early." Kiera said, offering her seat to the King. He made a dismissive gesture.
"I merely wanted to bid farewell to my friend."
"And them, Sire?"
"Call it a revenge of sorts for taking you from me." He grinned.
"We'll gladly suffer for it then, your Highness." Reita said cheekily.
Seeing Uruha reminded her of the news she had recently received. Kiera proceed to inform the King. From the small glances he sent at Uruha during her report she knew his thoughts were running in the same circles as hers. At the end of it, they all sank into a thoughtful silence except for Kai. Kai's drowsiness had left him. He was curiously inspecting her decoration. Much like Uruha had done his first visit to her office. She couldn't help a fond smile that grew on her lips.
"I would have Takeru travel with you." The King said suddenly, causing Kiera to snap her eyes away from Kai. She opened her mouth to question then almost immediately thought better of it. It made sense.
"If you wish it, your Grace." She said. Reita wasn't so agreeable.
Uruha didn't particularly mind the little demon coming with them. He seemed quite useful, actually. But Reita didn't seem to think so. His face showed sudden anger.
"With all due respect, your Majesty," Reita started, "I do not view Takeru as trustworthy. His kind is rotten to the very core with evil and nothing can be done to change it." Every word from his mouth dripped with hatred. Uruha began to wonder why Reita hated Takeru this much.
"Oh Lord Rei" the demon interjected before the King could in a singsong voice, "Why, thank you for that! Much obliged."
"That wasn't a compliment," Reita shot at him through gritted teeth.
"Of course it is," Takeru giggled, "Calling a demon 'evil' is very much a compliment."
Uruha muffled a little chortle. Takeru had a point.
"Lord Rei," King Sondalle raised his voice, "Takeru is going with you, no exceptions. Not only would he guarantee you with information concerning your journey but he will act as MY informant, notifying me of Uruha's progress. As for the matter of his loyalty, Marshal Kiera puts her trust in him and as such, so shall I."
Uruha turned to observe Reita. He threw Takeru a look of pure antipathy as a smug little smile crept up onto the demon's face.
"As you command, my Lord," said Reita, seeming very displeased with the turn of events.
Uruha's eyes landed on Kiera this time. Frowning, he edged towards her after spotting that her discomfort from yesterday didn't seem to have decreased.
"So Kiera," he started, attempting to maintain eye contact with her as she tries to avoid his glance, "It-it's really a bright day today isn't it? How are you this morning?" What a lame thing to say Uruha, he thought to himself. Of all the topics he could have discussed, of all the answers he wanted from her regarding her feelings about the journey... and he sticks to small talk?
Kiera was at a loss for a response. He had taken her completely off guard. Were they not discussing important matters? The eagerness in his eyes made her think better of a harsh response.
"I am of good health, Uruha." She replied awkwardly.
"Actually, it will be a dark day." Takeru pointed out. She heard a muffled snigger which she guessed came from Kai.
"Oh a d-dark day huh?" Uruha feigned a smile at Takeru. Well, maybe he was wrong about not minding the demon on the journey.
"Pitch black," Takeru replied, grinning ear to ear.
"Anyway, Kiera," Uruha glared at Takeru and resumed his attention on her, "Good to know you're um.. healthy. But I meant more of your emotional.. feelings. A-are you unhappy about coming with me on the journey?" Uruha bit his lip, worried about her response.
Kiera considered his question. Was she unhappy? No she was not. In all honesty, she was somewhat glad. True she would be stricken with worry for the duties she would leave behind but...she stopped that train of thought before it could continue.
"I thank you for your concern. I do as my King bid but I shall be glad to be your companion." She told him.
"Really?" Uruha asked as joy washed over him. He had expected her to scream at him again but she actually feels glad? That was awesome!
Kiera seemed a bit surprised at his outburst and what Uruha did next didn't help at all. Kiera seemed to make him forget logic all the time.
"Yay!" Uruha had uttered before hugging her. She stiffened in his embrace. Everyone else in the room had wide open eyes, all shocked and curious for Kiera's reaction. Quickly, Uruha let go of her and put his hands in his pockets, his face turning unmistakably red.
"S-sorry," he muttered, "Hugging is actually a very VERY common thing in our world."
Reita snickered quietly, "No it's not."
"It IS," Uruha hissed back before turning to Kiera again.
"Sorry Kiera," he repeated nervously.
Kiera fought to control the wild beating of her heart. It was no easy task. It felt like that first battle she had ever fought, the excitement as she waited at the front of the army, the enemy screaming for war surged towards her. Loud booming laughter was heard in the room drawing her back from her momentary lapse. She whirled around to see not only Reita but Kai and the King as well doubling over in laughter.
She cleared her throat in the midst of their mirth. Uruha standing awkwardly in front of her. She remembered he had apologized. Kiera had meant to accept his apology but before she could the King spoke.
"I believe I now realise the reason behind your request last night, Uruha."
The teasing tone of the King's voice gave her pause. Kiera chose not to dwell on it though. They've all had enough amusement, in her opinion so she changed the subject.
"I have sent word to the stables to prepare horses for us. Lord Rei and I have our own. It would be wise for both of you to select your own horses. The King has generously offered his best stock for your choosing." she said, indicating Uruha and Kai.
Uruha's mouth opened in surprise. Horses? He can't ride horses! They look very uncomfortable to ride on too. "Um, excuse me," Uruha decided he must raise the issue to everyone's attention, "I don't know how to ride a horse." But then again, how else will they travel? Uruha hoped they didn't suddenly suggest dragons or some other worse creature.
"Erm...I don't know how either." said Kai. Kiera looked from Uruha to Kai. That was troubling indeed.
"I'm afraid we do not breed wolves or dragons here that can carry you. Unfortunately there is no space to construct a proper training and housing structure for them here." the King said.
Travelling by feet was not an option. They would not be able to cover as much distance and the path they would have to take was too dangerous. Kiera could only think of one other option...but she was hesitant to voice it.
Uruha was immensely relieved that the King had no room to have dragons and wolves here. It seems like horses are the only option left though. Ah, how he missed cars…
"Your Majesty," Reita interrupted his thoughts, "If I may make a suggestion."
Uruha was curious, mainly because Reita's face expression was one of absolute mischief. Knowing Reita's enhanced devilry in this world, Uruha could only hope for the best. Dear God, what is he suggesting?
"Pray tell Lord Rei," the King answered.
"The horses are quite strong, Majesty," Reita continued smoothly, "I'm certain they can withstand the weight of two riders. This is unquestionably the only option we can pursue at this point."
Uruha's eyes widened. Unquestionably the ONLY option? That can't be true! He's not riding on a horse with his arms tightly wrapped around another man. Wait… Uruha calmed himself down. This is a wonderful plan! There's no "another man"! It's Kiera… he could be so close to Kiera…
"I agree with Reita!" Uruha volunteered joyfully much to the horror of Kiera.
Thinking it had been one thing but to have Reita speak it and have Uruha agree so enthusiastically was truly discomforting for Kiera. Much to her dismay, the King was nodding thoughtfully.
"I must say, that is a valid suggestion. Well then, it is settled. I have matters to attend to and you, my subjects, need to pack."
With that the King swept away in all his glory from her office. He paused at the door, "Come bid me farewell before you leave, Kiera."
Kiera bowed. She would not think to leave any other way.
Kai had nothing to pack. At least he thought so until Reita came into his and Uruha's suite with a trail of servants meekly following him. The servants carried large boxes he can only assume as luggage with them.
"What are you up to?" he asked Reita.
"Pick. I had my tailor alter my clothes to fit you guys." Reita replied, lazily throwing himself on Uruha's bed. The owner of said bed, was already eagerly rummaging through the clothes.
"Why can't you get us new ones?"
"Because there're no malls you can just walk into and buy stuff. I'm awesome but I can't make clothes out of thin air." said Reita, sounding like he was explaining something obvious to a 5 year old. Kai rolled his eyes. He joined Uruha in picking out their clothes.
"Just pick. The servants will do the packing. Oh Kiki will get into a fit if we're even a tiny bit late so we're going down to the stables as soon as you're done."
"Ok, let's just go," Uruha says quickly, eager to go to the stables and choose the one and only horse he and Kiera will ride on. Without waiting for the rest, Uruha practically jogged down to the stables.
"So cute!" Uruha gasped like a little child at the sight of the horses, much to the exasperation of everyone else. He's never ridden horses but he'd always thought they were adorable. Kiera was already there, patting a beautiful black horse with a calm expression on her face. Uruha couldn't help but smile. "I like this one too," he said, standing beside her and grinning widely.
Kiera was absorbed in her thoughts, absently smoothing her horse's mane when Uruha's voice brought her back to the surrounding. He stood close to her grinning broadly. Well he was in a good mood, she thought.
"His name is Nyx." She told him. Not waiting for his response, Kiera moved away checking the saddle. Takeru crouched atop a grey horse slightly smaller than Nyx, twirling his hair on his finger. Kiera was about to question Uruha where Reita and Kai were when the two came into the stable.
"Kai, you shall ride with me." she announced.
Uruha's good mood was instantly ruined by those seemingly harmless six words. Kiera's voice echoed in his head like a horrific declaration of hopelessness. This can't be happening. Kai didn't seem to mind and wasn't protesting.
"NO!" Uruha blurts, "Why?"
They all stare at him with surprise and confusion. Wow he must look like he has ulterior motives or is jealous… no, no, he can't let them think that. Cover your ass, Uruha! He said to himself.
"Um… I like Nyx," he lied blatantly, "Can I ride him with you?"
Kiera closed her eyes fighting to control her temper. Never has a single man speak otherwise of her command regardless of the issue. It grated on her nerves that this one continually disobeys and opposes her. Reita had ordered one of the grooms to bring him his horse. A stallion of the lightest shade of brown stood proudly beside him.
"Egil is a lot bigger you know. Kai is smaller than you, Kiki and Kai are a perfect fit for Nyx." He said, running his hand over his horse's smooth neck.
Kai shrugged, "I don't really mind who I ride with."
Kiera remained silent, hoping Reita would convince his unreasonable bull headed friend. It was not so much that the burden of their bodies on Nyx that made her chose Kai. She recalled very clearly the chaotic emotions Uruha's embrace had evoked earlier. Were he to ride with her, she would surely be victim to it once more. No she could not risk that.
Uruha didn't like where this was going. It seems his 'liking the horse' argument wasn't going to cut it.
"I just don't want to ride with Reita," Uruha answered, giving Reita a glare. He knew Reita was just saying things to make everything complicated. And besides... a smaller horse meant Kiera and him get to be closer too...
Uruha cleared his throat, not letting his thoughts travel any further, "Since Kai doesn't mind. It should be fine, right?"
A huge smirk lit up Reita's face...not the most reassuring one. Kai decided he had to step in or they'd standing in the stables forever. He can sense the thunderstorm brewing over Kiera. He felt as though he was the only one who can stop the unnecessary murders in the stable. Takeru wasn't going to be any help at all, he just watched them with big eyes enjoying their conflict.
"Its fine. I'll go with Reita. We're the rhythm team, we should stick together, right?" he said smoothly. It didn't seem to appease Kiera but on the upside Reita only glared at him. Probably because Kai took away his fun.
"And I'm smaller than him but Uruha is a lot lighter." He tried to reason with Kiera.
Kiera did not want to agree despite the tiny treacherous part of her that did, with both Kai and Uruha were giving her pleading looks. It was the slowly dying rays of sunlight that decided her. They were wasting too much time quarrelling over a mundane issue.
"Very well then." She gave in.
Ignoring the slightly humiliating experience of riding a horse behind a woman, Uruha sat on Nyx. Kiera looked quite uncomfortable with him being there. To be honest, he was also quite uncomfortable. Not physically, but emotionally. He both wanted to be close to her and also as far away as possible. It was a very confusing emotion.
The horses trod slowly out of the stable towards the gate. They looked nonchalant. How very nice for them. Uruha was feeling excited and anxious. Excited to be near Kiera and anxious about what awaits him on the journey.
Kai was busy trying not feel too weird hugging Reita so he wouldn't slip of the high horse. He didn't fancy breaking his neck that way. They had barely gone past the humongous gates of the city when Kiera suddenly spoke.
"Takeru don't stray!" she barked. Sure enough, Takeru's horse was lagging behind in a different direction. How she knew that without turning her head was impressive to say the least. Pushing his lower lip out in a massive pout Takeru righted his horse following them. In front of him Reita was smug.
"Whatever happens on this expedition is under my responsibility. Lord Rei accepts my authority and so shall the rest of you. Do as I command should we encounter conflict, know that my words are only meant for your safety." she said. Kai watched her in awe, she seem to exude authority from every pore. Even with Uruha's arms tightly wrapped around her figure, she sat straight on the saddle handling the horse's reins with ease. He smiled at seeing Uruha practically plastered to her back. And he thought he was being oh so smart and not obvious at all of his little crush. Kiera didn't turn back to see if they all had heard her, of course they had.
"She won over you eh." Kai quietly teased Reita.
"Shut up. I'm just lazy to take up all that responsibility." Reita whispered back. Kai chuckled, in return he got Reita's elbow in his gut. Both of them quieted when they heard Kiera speak softly.
"You seem to enjoy opposing me, Uruha. For your sake, I hope you listen to me on this journey." It was intended only for Uruha's ears. If Uruha replied Kai didn't hear but he saw Uruha's arms tighten a little more around Kiera. Kai's thoughts drifted to the journey ahead. Hopefully it wasn't a dangerous one and at the end of it they'd all get back home safely.