Author's Note: Merp. So I felt like the last chapter was a bit sloppy. I hope it was still entertaining for you, but I promise I'll work on my editing. Apologies for the late-ish updates! It's gotten very busy on my end and I haven't allotted enough time to really sit down and write. Since I put myself on a deadline this last chapter was shaky. BUT! I promise this isn't going to be one of those awesome stories that just kinda never got finished. Updates will happen, just not as frequently as once a week, since I really want to do it justice. Extra long chapter for the inconvenience. Soooo what's everyone think so far? Any thoughts? Kudos? Merp? Let me know. DISCLAIMER: I do not own Yugioh! But if I did the story would never have ended!

Chapter 10: Short People Are Scary

Aeva stood at the open door of the now-dead prisoner's cell staring down at the floor where the guard's body had been found. Brigan commanded the Guard to search the dungeons for any other signs of freed prisoners or unwelcome guests. They shuffled around her brooding figure, checking every cell under the mountain. Her frown deepened as she stared at the rough stone floor. It was covered in blood and toxic ooze, filling the small room with a foul smell. A young female guard learned the hard way and was currently in the infirmary being treated for burns on her hands. It had been a hassle getting the prisoner's body and blood cleared from the upper landing-not only did the substance poison and warp a victim's mind, but it burned the skin of others on contact. They had to get creative on how to clean everything up and move the body. A few youngsters who worked in the palace stumbled by the sight and had to be sworn to secrecy on pain of punishment. They vowed to stay quiet on the matter and bolted off in fear of the Captain's anger. The hour was late and exhaustion was setting in. Aeva drew on her magic and focused all around her-feeling out for any signs of magic or evil intent. Certain emotions or spells left behind a tangible residue that she could sense, much like how she could see one's aura. Nothing could be found amidst the dreary atmosphere of Avhall's prison. Only the aura's of the Captain and the anxious guards could be sensed in a mixed swarm of colors and emotions. She didn't blame them for their uncertainty... anger and fear ran rampant within her at this latest attack and clouded her ability to focus properly. For Darkness to infiltrate within the villages was one thing-for it to appear inside the palace itself was another thing entirely.

"Lady, can you sense anything?" Brigan asked, coming to stand next to her at the door. She silently shook her head before turning and pacing slowly out of the dungeon. As she passed through the stone entrance she felt a faint tingle-making her pause and look at the door itself. 'Strange, that was a familiar sensation..' Placing a palm against it she pushed magic into it to see if anything sparked back at her, mentally willing the last known magic to remanifest. The runes briefly glowed red and then dimmed-that was normal, but whatever she had felt was no longer there. Brigan had followed after her, watching her closely examine the door.

"Lady Aeva?"

"I felt an odd sensation but...there is nothing. Perhaps I imagined it… *Sigh* Have the soldiers finish their search, then post several here at the door. Be they Gifted or heavily armed makes no difference, and they must be alert at all times. I want the dungeon and the lower levels reinforced for another attack such as this. Nothing gets up past this level. I will inform the Council immediately after I check on Marik and Kisa. Once that is done have someone alert this man's family of their loss-we will assist with the burial preparations."

"It shall be done Lady. He will be credited high honors for his sacrifice." Brigan fisted a hand over his heart and walked away to bark more orders at the men.

"It is the least we can do for not being able to protect him from a horrible death." Aeva whispered to herself as she ascended the stairs. The dark-haired maiden wound her way up to Marik's chambers, thoughts laid heavy with the loss of a palace guard and the violence she had to resort to to end the vile woman's rampage. Aeva was no stranger to death nor taking a life. She'd lost count on how many times she'd had to resort to such grisly actions to prevent more evil or to save innocent lives-and each time she could feel a little more of her humanity slip away. Her mother's words floated to the forefront of her mind. "To take a life means you must sacrifice a small bit of your own. A soul cannot withstand such an act and still come out whole. Good intentions or bad makes no difference.." Aeva's intent upon finding Kisa and Marik under attack was to simply restrain the prisoner...but her aura...where a soul should have given off waves of hate or malice in such circumstances there had only been a void. Emptiness. There was no longer a soul tied to that body. Thus, Aeva had destroyed the empty vessel and released it from whatever influence it had been under. The setback of the vessel's death was that with no attachment to the Darkness Aeva couldn't breach her mind and search for the puppet master pulling the strings.

Her footsteps were muffled along the large rugs and heels clacked lightly on the bare stone floors as she made her way up. The palace was quiet-soft moonlight shone through the windows. 'How could I allow such an atrocity to happen in a place that is the epitome of peace?' The Catalyst suddenly felt tired.

Reaching Marik's door, she paused just before knocking. Guilt flooded her being at the revelation that Marik was once again put in danger because of her-even if indirectly so. Would he be angry? She wouldn't blame him if he was. In the silence of the hall she pondered over why his feelings were suddenly such a large deal to her. Would it really matter if he yelled and berated her? She was the Catalyst-and her mission took precedence over anyone or anything. Taking a deep breath, she shook away most of her concern for the boy. There were bigger things at work and she couldn't focus solely on placating his feelings. Placing an ear to the wood she waited silently to hear any movement from the room. 'They must have fallen asleep.' With one hand against the wood and one on the door handle she gently eased into the dark room and made her way towards the two warm auras. In the dark she could make out two figures on the large bed. Marik sat up against the headboard snoring lightly with one hand resting atop Kisa's orange hair. The girl lay snuggled up against his leg, completely covered except for the top of her face and head. Despite her steely resolve moments earlier Aeva smiled tenderly at the sight. Her worries about what state of distress they'd be in evaporated. Kisa especially...

It wasn't so long ago the Animalis had been brought to the palace. A small child, abandoned by her kind and left to die. Brigan had found her horribly thin, hungry, dirty and mute within a cave at the base of the mountain. One look into her eyes said it all. Told the story she couldn't share verbally. Her feeble aura shone dimly back then-bruised, broken, and fearful, with no sense of self-worth. Brigan had searched for her people on the hopeful assumption they had left her by mistake but returned unsuccessful. Aeva took pity on the child and took her in. With the help of the nursemaids in the infirmary the child was nurtured back to health. Finding the girl to be intelligent and loyal, it was decided she would live in the palace and be Aeva's personal servant of sorts. Change didn't happen overnight-it took months to get her to smile, and longer still to finally speak. There were a number of episodes growing up where she would become upset or frightened, which triggered the change. In her tiger form, it was harder to hold on to her humanity. For Animalis like Kisa, instincts took over and the wild beast within would keep them trapped in beast form until their human mentality came back. Aeva had seen inside the girl's head once-the animal mindset is singular; survival is the only thing you see. You lose sense of who you are; the bonds to friends and family fade to the background, familiar faces disappear… Kisa had admitted she feared her animalistic side, afraid one day she would not be able to change back. And even though Aeva assured her that would not happen, there were legends and children's tales that told of Animalis' reverting fully to their beast form...never to return to society.

Aeva reached out and gently ran a finger down Kisa's cheek. Kisa squirmed slightly before sighing and stilling once more. The girl was precious to the Catalyst-the closest thing she had to a friend. And it was hard to maintain that level of familiarity or closeness with another...especially when those ties could be used against her. No, as a Catalyst friends were not a luxury she could afford. But the same could not be said for Kisa… Aeva glanced over to the snoring young man. His neck lay at an awkward angle; she took mercy on him and carefully adjusted him to a more comfortable position. For the first time since returning from Egypt, Aeva was glad Marik had ended up here-if only to comfort and befriend Kisa. Normally it took longer for the child to shift back, especially after something that caused her emotional pain. Aeva remembered a time that she sat all night with a trembling big cat...poor Kisa had shed all over a prized velvet skirt. To this day orange and black strands of fur could be picked off the fabric. It surprised Aeva that the Egyptian was able to calm her down so quickly; she'd have to thank him in the morning. 'Or later today I should say...' The night sky already brightening with the soon-to-rise sun. Aeva quietly slipped back out of the room and begrudgingly headed for the Chapel. The Chapel-sole living space and meeting place of the Council. The single-minded snobbish monks, with their snide remarks and derogatory speeches… Aeva groaned at having to summon them for anything. No doubt they'd give her hell before being allowed to explain the 'problem'. The only thing she truly appreciated about the Council was that they never seemed to sleep and could be called upon at any time. However her least favorite quality about them went hand in hand with the first thing…they absolutely hated to be bothered by any but the Sovereigns unless it was a dire situation. And since it would not do to wake Lady Seraphine to simply pass on a message they would have to put up with the Catalyst. A prisoner escaping the dungeon and killing a guard-could there be a more valid excuse?

For them? Probably..

Marik woke to the sound of birds chirping out on the balcony. Blinking sleep from his eyes he shifted-and groaned at the stiffness in his back from sleeping sitting up. 'I slept in my clothes? That's new.' A rather unpleasant whiff of something woke him up completely.

"Ughh. What the fu.." Following his nose to the source he found the smell was coming from himself-the dried sludge that crazy prisoner had drooled on him stunk like crazy. "Ew! Damn my shirt is ruined." Rubbing the tight muscles in his lower back he looked around the empty bed before focusing on the comforter laying half off the bed. He stared at the large down cover as the memories of last nights mishap came back.

"Kisa! Hey are you still here?" He leaned over and pulled the blanket up. No tiger girl. Her clothes that he left on the dresser were gone too. 'She must have woke up earlier and left to her own room.' He shuffled off the bed and waddled around to the bathroom, muttering curses under his breath at the awful white-noise feeling in his butt and legs. He slept in a weird position and now his ass was asleep! He peeled off the ruined fabric and cleaned himself up before padding over to the closet hoping to find something not covered in psycho goo. Throwing open the doors his eyes widened at all the new apparel.

"When the hell did all this get here?" He rifled through the assortment of pants, shorts and tops hung inside. "Wow, this all looks like what I have back home." The colors and variety of styles were all suited to his tastes, with just a bit of Avhallian flair to it. He picked out soft khaki colored pants with deep pockets and a black sleeveless shirt with matching vest. Looking down he noticed a few pairs of boots to change out with his own. He picked a brown pair that laced up the front and checked himself out in the mirror. He had to give the seamstress credit-the clothes could pass as somewhat normal on Earth! The fit was perfect and the fabric loose and comfortable. Along the seams dark gold-colored twine was interwoven in an intricate pattern. Marik noticed a tiny celtic-looking symbol woven into the corners of the collar. "Hm, not bad."

"Not bad indeed."

"WHAA! Why do you people keep doing that?!" Marik clutched his racing heart and spun towards Aeva, who stood just inside the door. "I swear you're all out to make me shit myself!"

She chuckled at his crude humor, "I apologize, I forget you aren't as aware as most people here." Marik watched as she strode into the room till she was in front of him. In her hands she held a gold chain, raising it to his face and silently asking him to lower his head. Despite being slightly confused, he bent down so she could place it around his neck. A small pearl-like jewel hung from the bottom just over his heart.

"What is this?" He touched the stone. He flinched as the rock seemed to brighten at his touch and shoot warmth into his fingers.

"It's a Light runestone, much like the one I had. This one is smaller and less powerful but still very useful. It can help aid you should you face an enemy like last night, but how you tap into it is up to you. Secondly, it serves as a symbol of protection and the level of your status. A gift, for protecting Kisa."

Marik looked down at her, "My status?"

She nodded, "Only Sovereigns, Council members and a select chosen few are allowed to have their own pendants. This tells others that you are held in high regard within Avhall."

Marik's eyebrows shot up, "Oh. Th-thank you. But I don't have powers so how can I use it?"

She motioned him to follow out to the hall, "Give it time. You may not be able to tap into anything yet, but you may have strengths hidden within. Mostly I want any soldiers who spot it to rush to your aid should you need it." They started walking down towards the mess hall. She sighed heavily and the ash blond glanced sideways at her. "Marik, I want to apologize for what occurred last night."

"You mean the threat against my life via Psycho Bitch?"

She gave him a rueful look, his language was...colorful. "We should have been better prepared. It is strange...attacks within the palace almost never happen. Of course, that is no excuse. We lost lives that could have been spared. My fear that the Darkness is growing has proven to be correct. I only have seven days to prepare and execute this revival ritual so all of my time and energy must be invested in that. Once the Pharaoh is resurrected I will have more power to provide better protection for the kingdom." They wound their way down a winding stair.

"All your time and energy, huh? So is this your subtle way of telling me to get comfortable cause I'm not going anywhere?"

At that Aeva stopped and turned to him, "Oh Marik…. Regretfully yes, it is. My hope and my goal is that with the rebirth of the king the evil that is seeping into these lands will depart-even if only temporarily. The threat of a new Sovereign is great and evil knows it. It will fall back and simply watch. I intend to use that time to train him, crown him and send you home." Marik's face fell. She saw the flicker of disappointment across his aura, but it disappeared just as quickly.

He shrugged, "I suppose being stuck here isn't all bad...the food is great. By the way, you're gonna have to tell me the seamstress' name cause she's awesome." He gave her a tentative smile.

Aeva smiled back, "Her name is Wren, and she'll be happy to know her hard work is appreciated. As I appreciate you. I'm grateful for your courageous spirit. It speaks volumes of your character. You are a good man, Marik Ishtar."

Marik felt his face warm up and cleared his throat, "Yeah, uh, don't be so sure about that. I'm starving so we should get down to the mess hall." He shook off the embarrassment at the compliment and hustled down with Aeva following behind.

"You shouldn't put yourself down so, you have great potential... even if you do not see it."

"Thanks, but I'm not sure you'd feel that way if you saw my past. There are a lot of mistakes that I have to make up for... Hey, is Kisa okay?" His change of subject was obvious so Aeva let it go.

"She is. As a matter of fact I believe she is waiting for us already. I have instructed her to take you to the Courtyard after our meal. Along with the pendant, I plan to give you the best chance of protecting yourself from any and all dangers while you are here, especially since I cannot watch you myself. Captain Brigan has generously offered to oversee your training."

He stopped dead in his tracks just inside the doorframe, "Training? What training?"

She sauntered past with a bemused smirk, "Well I can't very well have you running about with no way to defend yourself. You will be given proper instruction on self defense." The boy's offended expression sent her into a fit of giggles.

"I fight just fine! I held my own against you didn't I?" He glowered at her as they made their way into the dining hall.

She snorted at that, "In a true fight you would have been dealt with easily. I kept the lethality at a minimum for your sake. But do not fret Marik, once Brigan is done with you none will dare cross your path."

He scoffed, "Whatever, you only won because you kicked me in the damn balls! Lethality my ass-that's fighting dirty!" She laughed all the way to the table.

Kisa smiled as they came to sit down, "Good morning Lady Aeva, good morning Marik."

"Good morning." They chorused back. Marik patted her head; he was glad she was okay. The tiger girl looked up at him shyly before standing suddenly and hugging him around his middle-to both his and Aeva's surprise. "Thank you... I-I feared you wouldn't want to be my friend after..after you saw me." He and Aeva gave each other a look before he gave Kisa a light squeeze in return.

"What? Kisa, why would I not like you?" He asked, voice laced with concern.

"Most people fear me when I change... I-I'm not a very common Animalis..everyone thinks I'm dangerous..." The tiger girl's aura vibrated with anxiety-Aeva could see her aura glow the color of sunflowers in his presence; she'd become attached to the Egyptian in their short time of knowing one another. "Parents tell their children to be wary of me. They don't want them to be friends with someone who could eat them." She hung her head sadly, tears building up on her lashes. As a girl, she was well known among the residents in the palace; but as a tiger, they gave her a wide berth for fear of being attacked. Aeva watched as his expression turned to one of anger.

"Well that's stupid! It's not like you turn into a bloodthirsty big cat! You turn into a big orange puffball! You're not scary at all!" That was a lie, seeing as how he about shit his pants when he saw her, but she didn't need to know that. "I think that's pretty cool, and you're the one who saved me." He placed his hands on her shoulders and sat them down at the table. "If they really say that, they just don't know you that well."

She gave him a watery smile, "I just remember thinking I didn't want her to hurt you, and being afraid. It's hard to remember things when I'm...changed. Sometimes I fear I will hurt someone." Aeva placed a comforting hand on her back.

Marik spotted a vase of white lilies on the table and snagged one out, tucking it behind Kisa's ear.

"I think you worry too much. You did good Tigerlilly, you did good." He said, patting her head again. She beamed and looked up at Aeva who smiled at her radiant aura. They were interrupted from their moment as the Captain strode quickly into the hall.

"Lady Aeva, Queen Beira has returned. She wishes to see you at once." Brigan bowed his head as he carried through his orders.

"Oh? I did not expect her back so soon." Aeva frowned. Beira had a habit of making appearances last minute. For her to be early? Unusual...

"Neither did I, but she awaits in the West library nevertheless. I believe Queen Seraphine is there as well."

"Thank you Brigan, I shall head up at once. I suppose I shall not be eating breakfast this morning." She stood to leave. Kisa scrambled with a napkin and a few pieces of buttered toast.

"Here Lady! Take this!" She handed her the folded bits of bread.

"Thank you child, I shall see you all later on. Marik, eat your fill of protein. You'll need it." She smirked at his narrowed gaze. Brigan stood expressionless when she gave him a pointed look. "Don't overdo it with him. I'd like to send him home in one piece."

"As you wish, Lady."

"What the hell does that mean? Why wouldn't I go home in one piece? Hey! Aeva!" Marik whined after her as she flounced out of the hall. He eyeballed the stoic captain, a feeling of foreboding creeping in as he piled his plate with breakfast chops. 'This can't be good..'

Aeva entered the library, failing to stop a shiver at the drop in temperature. As Brigan had said, the two Queens sat waiting on large winged armchairs.

Beira was the first to speak, "And here at last is our dear Catalyst."

"Good morning Lady Aeva, I do hope we haven't disturbed you with our summons." Seraphine's feather light voice carried over to her. The difference between them was night and day..much like their looks. Where Beira was cold and sometimes cruel, Seraphine was inviting and gentle. The only similarities were that they were both Queens and like Beira, Seraphine projected a temperature around her. Her being seemed to emit a light warmth, like a sun-soaked breeze in spring. Shame it didn't radiate like Beira's icy demeanor.

Aeva bowed and fisted a hand over her heart in respect, "Not at all my Queens, I apologize if you were waiting long. How can I be of service?"

"I've brought your ingredients." Beira pointed a long spindly finger at the large desk. Atop sat an assortment of rare dried herbs tied with twine, vials of oils, large colored gems and two jars of what looked like black sand. Aeva walked over and inspected the items. "Tell me again girl, how do you plan to summon this kingling of yours? You only asked for half of the items needed for a revival spell."

"Thank you kindly for bringing these my Queen, and as quickly as you did. As for your question, you are correct. Ingredients like the mountain ash and elemental gems are for the revival portion, which will open the door for his soul to cross into our realm-however I am combining our spell with another from the Dark Tome. One that will allow me to renew the original body in place of making him a new one."

Seraphine looked mildly shocked, "Combine spells? Do you have the experience for this? No one in the realm has ever used a Tome before...it could be dangerous."

"The Sovereigns used one many many ages ago, back when they first built the palace-it was lost to us at some point, but if they were willing to risk it then so am I. The Dark Tome will allow me to use its spells within. I do not fear its influence as others do."

"Is that due to the fact you are a Dark Wielder? Or you are simply confident the spell will work?" Seraphine cocked a delicate eyebrow.

"Both, the Tome is more closely related to shadow magic but a Dark element all the same. It will heed my call."

Beira looked unfazed, "I know what you hope to achieve girl, but the influence of the moons will not be enough. Even with all your strengths this kind of magic is a gamble. And the Tome? I need not remind you that dark magic always calls for sacrifice. You are playing with fire that will most surely burn you."

Aeva turned to her Sovereigns with a defiant look in her eye, "As I said, I know the risks. With the recent attacks taking place so close to home I feel the risk-no, I feel the sacrifice-whatever that may be, is necessary. With each new ruler I place among you our power grows and the Darkness retreats further and further. We need this...and if it is well with you, I would ask for your assistance. You're right, I'm not strong enough to do this on my own, but with your help-"

Beira cut her off, "I'll not put any part of myself up as potential sacrifice for this new kingling, not until he proves he is worthy to rule alongside me. Nicias and Hai both undoubtedly feel the same so do not ask. I've brought you your ingredients. I'll not be offering anymore help until he is ready. Now unless there is anything I should be aware of..?"

"Only that I advise you to be wary of your surroundings, and your company. There was an attack last night within the palace. A prisoner from Dell Vallah poisoned with shadow magic escaped the dungeon. I ended the threat myself, but I was not able trace the origin of the magic. Until I know more please be on your guard."

Seraphine's hand covered her mouth in shock. "Within the palace? How can this be?"

"I've not the faintest clue, but I will find out."

Beira sighed and stood, "I shall take your advice. If that is all, I take my leave. I will be absent until the Blood Moons. Surely that will give you ample time to raise a king." The wraith-like Queen stood and opened a portal on the far wall. Turning back she fixed Aeva with a hard stare, "Do try not to die in the attempt to bring him back. It would be a shame for me to outlive another Catalyst." With that, she turned and left.

Aeva sat quietly, attempting to hide being phased by Beira's harshness. As Catalyst, she had a unique bond with each Sovereign she placed-it was born from the magic in her bloodline. Not only was she able to help them tap into their combined power, but she became to them whatever they needed her to be; a servant, a confidante, a voice of reason... After all, content Sovereigns meant a safe and happy kingdom. But Beira was different; they lacked that bond since she was originally crowned by her mother-the Catalyst before her. It did not stop them from working together effectively, but Aeva always wondered how their bond would have manifested itself.

"Fear not Lady Aeva, you will not be alone in this." Queen Seraphine stood, her long white hair shone in the light from the windows. "Beira does not see that a shared sacrifice can accomplish so much more than one sacrifice alone."

Aeva bowed her head, "Thank you my Queen. I promise I will not ask more than what is absolutely necessary." The Queen reached out and gently squeezed her hand. The air in the room instantly became warmer.

"Nonsense, you will need all the power you can get. If Nicias and Hai will not assist us then we shall ask the Council."

Aeva grimaced, "I suppose we should, though I'd much rather risk whatever awaits me if I do it myself."

The white maiden giggled, "You never were fond of them. I don't blame you. They are such dull creatures, aren't they? I will take my leave as well-my gardens need tending to. There is much to do in preparation of this ritual, yes?"

"Yes. I will be busy but do not hesitate to call on me. Please stay close to the palace my Queen, only until after the Full Moons."

"As you wish Catalyst." The gentle Queen departed for the gardens and Aeva strode the opposite direction towards the Chapel for the second time that day. Placing a hand over her heart, she felt a surge of energy from the orb he now resided in. She prayed this Pharaoh was the king they needed. 'Seven days... and then you shall walk among the living once again. This I vow!'

Evening of the Full Moons...

Marik hissed in pain, "Ah! Careful!"

"I'm sorry, but if I don't clean it out properly it could heal wrong." Kisa said, holding wet soapy cloth to tend to the Egyptian's swollen eye. He flinched away from the small hand attempting to get near him. The open wound above it seeped out a trickle of blood.

"Doesn't your healing magic get rid of dirt and bacteria and crap like that? Just do your glowy thing with the hands."

"Stop moving! I will in a moment- and no it doesn't, I told you this. My powers only accelerate the healing process. If it's not clean or the damage is too great and I try to heal it there's chance that it will become infected or scar. There aren't many who can truly erase wounds like they never happened." They sat in the empty Courtyard on a stone bench. The Captain stood nearby cleaning off weapons.

"This would not be a concern if someone learned to actually block my advances." Brigan muttered.

"Yeah well I would know how to block attacks if someone would actually show me instead of just using me as a punching bag." Marik spat, "This isn't training. This is you dealing with your issues."

Brigan rolled his eyes, "That is a ridiculous claim. Do not blame me for your lack of discipline. If you paid better attention you would not need Kisa to baby you."

Marik spun and shot the man a dirty look, "Ass! I am paying attention. I'd be dead if I didn't. Admit it Captain, you just don't like me." He flinched as some of the worse spots screamed in protest at his sudden movements. Brigan snorted and picked up another sword.

Kisa nudged his face forward again, "That is not true. Captain Brigan isn't like that. Be still please. I'm almost done." She mopped up the blood from the various cuts on his face and dropped the rag into a bowl. Her hands lay gently atop the worst ones and she pushed her magic into the skin, watching carefully as it stitched itself back together. "There, your face is fine, but I can't say the same for the rest of you. Are you certain you don't want me to heal those too?"

"Thanks Kisa, but I'm fine." He stood, and bit the inside of his cheek as pain shot through his body. "It's not bad, I'll be good as new tomorrow morning."

Brigan sharpened a spearhead, "You'd better be. I won't be wasting any of my time waiting on you if you need medical attention."

Marik growled, "I said I'll be fine. And I'll be gunning for you." Putting as much venom in his voice as he could manage. The Captain chuckled.

"I look forward to it."

"Careful Captain, he has spunk. And he can take a hit, trust me." Aeva strode into the Courtyard with a smirk. "How has the training coming along?"

Captain Brigan stood at attention, "He's made improvement but don't count on swearing him into the guard. At best he could pass as a glorified babysitter." Marik glowered at him.

Kisa gave a small gasp, "Master Brigan that is not nice!"

Aeva jumped in, "Indeed, it isn't. I'm sure his skill has improved immensely under your tutorage…" She paused as she took in Marik's disheveled appearance. "What is this.." Stepping closer, she held Marik's arms and turned him this way and that. His aura was giving off tiny flashes of reddish-yellow hues on various parts of his legs and torso. Concern fell over her features as she suddenly lifted Marik's shirt up.

"Whoa! Hey! What are you doing Aeva?" He exclaimed, tugging his shirt back down. Not quickly enough though, as Aeva had gasped at the dark bruises littering his body. She pinned Brigan with an icy glare.

"Did I not tell you to not work him over so hard?"

Kisa whispered a barely audible, "Uh oh.." Tugging on Marik's arm, she slowly backed up to stand a couple feet back.

"Did you not just state that he could take a few hits?" The Captain responded coolly, face impassive.

"Don't toy with my words. I gave you an order. He is not Avhallian, Brigan. Tell me just how you expect a stranger to acclimate to self defense in a week?" Marik's eyes widened at the exchange. Aeva looked down right pissed.

"Being ignorant to our ways makes no difference to me. He is a grown man, and if he says he can hold his own then I shall treat him accordingly. It would be disrespectful to not abide by his wishes."

"Is it more disrespectful than defying an order from your Catalyst? Look at his wounds! I'm positive he has fractures that have not healed properly. The elite don't even leave this bad off! I asked you to teach him how to better protect himself-not use him as target practice!" Her voice got steadily louder.

Marik whispered to Kisa, "Told you."

Brigan shot a glare at him, "And I have tried to do just that. He simply does not have what it takes to survive amongst us."

She slowly stalked closer to the Captain, "That is not true and you know it. He has untapped potential, much like you did when I pulled you out of that hellhole." They were less than a foot away from each other. She lowered her voice, "It was not so long ago you were in a similar position. Lost, undisciplined, and in need of guidance. I'm disappointed, you seem to have forgotten that." An indistinguishable emotion passed over his face before smoothing out again. They stared each other down for what seemed like minutes. Marik and Kisa stood silently, eyes going back and forth between them.

Finally Brigan spoke, "I'm sorry you feel that way, but I was not weak. It is the nature of our realm that the weak do not survive here. If the worst thing to happen to him is me giving him too hard a beating then I'd say he got off lucky." Marik couldn't help but bristle at his disparaging comment, but before he could mouth off someone beat him to it.

Aeva chuckled darkly, "Is that so? Then how about we put that little theory to the test? Show me just what it takes to survive here."

Marik heard a small whine and looked down to find Kisa casting a worried glance between the two. Har small hands clutched the front of her dress and she subconsciously stepped closer to him. He was perplexed at her reaction. Did he miss something? What were they testing exactly? He was grateful that Aeva stuck up for him but what could she do? The damage was done-he had the bruising to prove it.

"What do you mean by that?" The Captain kept his voice calm but no one missed the color slowly draining from his face. Marik saw his stance loosen ever so slightly. Aeva hadn't moved a muscle-her stillness intensified the challenging glare focused on the large man. Now Marik was really confused, if he didn't know any better he'd say Brigan actually looked a little scared. Of Aeva? Sure she could fight but Brigan was a beast. The dude had to be at least 6'8"; was built like a damn Spartan warrior-he hated to admit it but he knew he would destroy Odion on any given day. Just spending one week, twice a day, under his command was enough to justify why he was in charge of the whole damn army. He dwarfed the raven-haired woman on every level. But she looked entirely at ease facing down the brute of a Captain.

"Come now, prove to me just how strong you are Brigan." Even though her eyes never left the man's face, Marik found himself shrinking back with Kisa at the look on her face. Yeesh...if looks could kill.

Brigan paled, "Lady, that is unnecess-"

Aeva didn't let him finish. She kicked up a spear and spun, striking out at the man and catching him on his upper arm with the flat of the blade. He immediately went on the defensive, scrambling out of her reach and grabbing another spear from the floor as she stalked after his retreating form. Kisa and Marik stared in open mouthed shock as Aeva removed her cloak and tossed it aside. 'Shit just got real..' Marik thought. They circled each other…

Aeva moved like lightning-advancing again and whipping the spear with a vengeance at every inch of him. He kept up for the most part but the blade hitting his arms and legs on ones he couldn't deflect gave off an audible SMACK. Kisa and Marik both found themselves flinching at the sound. The clash and clang of the wooden poles echoed loudly through the room as he fought to best her attacks. Brigan growled and managed to swing his spear in a wide arch-forcing her back, and launching forward to swing at her feet. She jumped, simultaneously bringing the spear down onto his shoulder. The man cried out as the sharp blade cut into his collarbone. Aeva landed with a leg on either side of the spear. Brigan swooped it hard to the left, catching her foot and heaving upwards. Marik gasped, thinking she would lose her balance. Instead he was left astonished as she not only kept her balance, but stretched her leg up past her head until her ankle came free from the spear-bringing it down and twirling to slice across his chest with the grace of a dancer. He jumped back just enough that it didn't catch him fully. Thinking up a new tactic, he dodged her blows and closed the space between them. The closeness wouldn't allow her to swing the spear around, so she snapped it in half against his chest and wielded the smaller pieces like swords-with Brigan using his whole spear to block her swings. The momentum kept Aeva retreating backwards and onto a small set of stairs. She used the small height gain and began throwing kicks into the mix, aiming blows to his upper thighs and middle.

The two witnesses stood behind the bench, out of harm's way. Marik wasn't gonna lie, he felt a little smug that Aeva was whooping Captain Asshole's ass. He seriously needed a taste of his own medicine. At the same time though he was absolutely terrified of the short girl. She was like a mini Bruce Lee with boobs! He realized now that she hadn't been lying when she said she was going easy on him and Odion at the dig.

Brigan managed to knock one of her spear pieces away, with her aiming a high kick to the side of his face. He leaned back, catching her ankle and yanking hard-swinging her around and across the floor. She dropped her weapon to catch herself, rolling last minute to avoid getting stomped by Brigan's boot. He threw his spear to the side and advanced on her with his fists at the ready. Marik felt nervous, if he got too close and managed to get a grip on her it was all over. Aeva smirked confidently and jumped to her feet. Meeting him halfway they swung and punched and chopped at one another in moves so swift Marik had to really focus to know what was happening. Brigan landed a blow on her cheek and her head whipped to the side with the force of it. Kisa yelped and covered her mouth. Marik paled, thinking Brigan would get the upper hand and put her down. But Aeva followed through with the movement and did a spinning kick right to the side of his neck. He went down on one knee. Things happened so fast Marik's brain had to catch up with his eyes. Aeva snapped a heel out, hitting his solar plexus-he doubled over in pain. Moving behind him, she caught a flailing wrist and trapped it behind his head, pinning it against his back. Brigan roared in pain and frustration and shot to his feet. Aeva still had a grapple on his wrist and was lifted off her feet for a second too long. Brigan heaved her over his body and laid her out on the floor in front of him. She landed with a knee cocked up and pushed against the floor to slide between his legs. He moved too fast and grabbed a handful of her skirt to keep her still, lifting a boot to stomp down on her stomach. She gave a breathless "OOF!" before his boot came down again and stomped the floor where her head had been a second before. The Captain knelt down so he was halfway straddling her, and she grabbed at his belt and clawed her way up his back. He let go of her skirt and reached around behind him but she evaded his hands and freed herself-pushing him forward off her with her feet and standing quickly, making a run for the pile of weapons. He was on his feet and hot on her tail in seconds, making a grab for her shoulder. He clutched nothing but air as she took a running slide and snagged a curved sword out of the pile, spinning herself just as Brigan towered over her. Swinging it hard, he barely managed to escape a deep cut to his lower belly. She leapt forward and made swing after swing, Brigan frantically backing up and dodging the whistling blade. Whether Aeva was secretly holding back or not, her ferocity increased and she gave an angry cry as she caught him on his thigh. He yelped and lost balance, sliding backwards on one knee. Marik watched in horror and awe as she took her chance-flipping the blade around and aiming several brutal blows across his face and chest with the handle of the sword before kicking him under the chin. He fell back, failing to raise his arms in time-he froze as a cool blade tapped lightly against his throat. He looked up into the fiery gaze of his Catalyst; the anger still hadn't dissipated from her features. Panting for breath, he cast his eyes down in surrender.

Aeva tossed the sword to the side, "As I said, I'm disappointed Brigan. You would do well to heed my orders as I give them to you, lest I have to remind you just how weak you truly are."

He spat out blood, "Yes my Lady."

"Clean yourself up and head to the Chapel." She moved away and picked up her cloak, her tone sharp as she addressed their stunned audience. "Marik. Kisa. Follow me, the moons will be at their highest point in less than an hour."

Marik blinked, "Wha-you mean right now? We're bringing him back tonight?" He cast a glance back at the busted up Captain now limping out the other side of the Courtyard before hustling after the heated Catalyst.

"Yes. If you have no objections I would like you to stand witness. Kisa, your healing abilities might be needed." The girl nodded and jogged to keep up with her fast strides.

"Uh okay, sure, but I don't think he'll be happy to see me." Marik felt his stomach flutter uncomfortably as they ascended the staircase.

"He may not even remember you, so your worry is misplaced. Your concern would be better off focused on me not dying in the process of resurrecting him." Marik gaped at her nonchalant tone, but stayed silent. They came to a set of large stone doors a few floors above the throne room. Runestones decorated the slabs and glittered as they approached. Aeva placed both hands against the seam and pushed hard. The doors swung open into a dark circular room lit only by candelabras along the wall. Their footsteps echoed in the silent room. In the dim light Marik could see ten hooded figures standing in a line at the back of the room.

Chills racked up his spine as ten voices spoke in unison, "The time has come…" Kisa clutched the back of Marik's shirt in fear, and he couldn't help but gulp at the creepy atmosphere. Aeva stepped forward.

"Let us begin."