The Magicians thus far:
Razel—The Magician of Black Chaos (True Duel Spirit)
Von—The Ancient Elf (Second Duel Spirit/Confidante)
Rae—Rapid Fire Magician
Brie—Breaker the Magical Warrior
Neo—Neo the Magic Swordsman
Lazar—Blast Magician
"Zef" Zefrasaber—Swordmaster of the Nekroz
Jalak—The Timegazer Magician
Rai—Archenite Magician/Assault Mode
**Author's Note: Ok, so I know that the Performapal monsters and the Pendulum monsters aren't the same thing, but since they come from the same arc of Yugioh, Arc-V, I'm combining them into the Performapal chapters of my story. Other Spellcasters belonging to other Yugioh protagonists will also appear in this story, as their timelines are set far into the future of the Yugioh universe.**
After my so called "date" with Seto, things in my life began to move forward rather quickly. Although, what we did was not officially called a "date" by either of us at the time, I could not help but fantasize that it was one. I try not to be a fangirl, I really do. I find it a bit immature and juvenile to carry on like that, but, I did allow myself a giggle and dance or two when I was alone. Like in the shower for example. My usual conversation went like this; "Did I go on a date with the Seto Kaiba?"… "Why yes I did." "How was it?"… "It was fantastic!"
Then I'd get a huge shit eating grin and jerk and dance excitedly as I washed my hair. I could not get too loud because I did not want my Duel Spirits to hear me and heaven forbid tease me. I kept this exuberance to myself. When I mentioned things moving more quickly, I meant with my training and the timeline of events. The following days after Seto and I met at Sebastian's, Razel informed me that my training regimens needed to be increased and diversified.
"What? What am I supposed to do now?" I asked.
"Work harder," came his curt reply.
"I do work hard already Razel. Sometimes too hard. There are days when I can't brush my hair my arms are shaking so much. What else is there to train?" I was whining.
My blue mage fixed a glare on me, like a tutor about to scold his petulant pupil. "There is much to learn! So far I have only trained your focus and balance. Next I will mold your stamina and endurance. Strength and power will be the next level's goal."
"And how will this be done Razel? I'm not exactly an Olympian." Due to Razel's training thus far I was fit and thin, but I was no athlete.
"I never considered you as such. Very few humans are capable of performing such feats."
"Thanks so much Razel. It's really important to me that you think so highly of me," I said with a flat, sardonic tone.
"Which is why I have spoken with Jalak on this matter."
I hesitated. "Jalak? What does he have to do with this? And since when do you ask for another's advice?"
"Honestly, either you do not wish to know more about us or your stupidity on certain things is astounding. Before you quip, listen. Jalak happens to be a member of a troupe of magical performers in our world. A 'circus' if you will."
I raised my eyebrow so high that I was sure it reached my hairline. "A circus…you want me to join the circus?"
Razel paused as if realizing what he said did in fact sound completely ridiculous. But, like with anything and everything, Razel had a purpose. "As much as I detest it myself, as it is below me, they are called the Performapals."
"Performapals." I snorted and tried to resist the smile. "Wow Razel."
His right eye twitched and he brought two long fingers to rub his right temple. The black tattoos on his cheek moved as he massaged his skin. "Please spare me. This decision did not come to me lightly. But I do believe it has merit. You will take up with their entourage and train under them. I have already given summons."
"Given summons? What are you an ambassador? What makes you think they'll do it?"
The Chaos Mage gave me a look that represented pride and authority. A look that made him beautiful and threatening. "Because I am the Magician of Black Chaos."
That Friday:
That morning I was roused out of bed, dressed in shorts and a white T-shirt and Sperry shoes, had a quick cup of coffee, and followed Razel outside towards the field behind my house. In the early summer morning there was a tiny chill in the air. I crossed my arms and waited. With me were Razel, Von, and the others. As the minutes passed the air grew warmer and more humid. I fanned myself, pulling my hair up in a high bun. The sun did not rise yet and it was already hot.
"Razel, what are we doing?"
"Must you know everything I do?"
"When I'm standing in a field at the crack of ass? Yeah, I'd say I do." I said.
"We're waiting. They will be here shortly."
Behind me, Neo, Lazar, Rae, Brie, Rai, Zef, and Jalak stood quietly.
Von leaned down to me. "Don't be too upset Mistress. I have seen the Performapals before. They are quite good."
"Are they? I just can't believe Razel wants me to join the circus."
"That's where you are wrong though. The Performapals are not an ordinary circus act." Von said with a side smile.
"Are there clowns? I hope not…I hate clowns." I muttered.
"Why is that?"
"They scare me."
"Do they?" Von asked slightly chuckling.
"Clowns are terrifying."
Von chuckled again at my sincerity and looked ahead at the vast openness of the field. "Well, if that's the case then I will personally make sure no clowns come into your presence."
"Thanks," I let out a little whine. I hated clowns. I still do.
"Quiet both of you. They are here." Razel said.
A small disturbance formed in the distance. I thought it was something in the air or my eyes, but as I stared, the disturbance grew. It warped space time, like a science fiction movie, the landscape twisting into a spiral with a dark dot at its center. A wind blew. I heard sounds of voices and feet, fabric fluttering and carnival music. The dot expanded, increasing in diameter until a grown human could walk through it. The sounds got louder. Then, one by one, figures emerged from the hole. Dressed in elaborate circus wear, they came forth laughing and singing. Some did flips and others rode large animals. I did not detect any clowns, at least none that from my vantage point I could see. Some Duel Monster Spirits were tall and others were child-like. There were Spellcasters among them, I sensed. They in turn sensed me and they all had glitter in their eyes as they acknowledged me. Once all were present, I was pleased that no clowns at all were spotted, they bowed low to Razel.
In a single voice, the troupe of thirty or more Performapal performers said; "Lord Razel, Lord of the Highest Mages, The Sapphire Elite and The Magician of Black Chaos, we are the Performapals! We are humbled and unworthy of your summons! Please allow us to fulfill your wishes for we heartily await them! Please instruct us, for we performers shall be greatly honored to assist you, our Chaos Mage!"
A hush fell over all of us. I glanced over at Razel. He stood still. His back was pole straight, like a statue, his profile forward. Tall and intimidating Razel was beautiful to behold. These Duel Spirit circus performers greeted him as if he were a king. It was a little embarrassing, hearing these old-fashioned praises, but it was also kind of cool and empowering.
"I thank you for coming. Your honors I take to heart and I am grateful to have such. I have called you here this day to present to you the Mistress and Master of the Chaos Mage, and the heir to the title of Master of Magicians. She stands before you here," Razel gestured to his right. I blushed but kept my composure. "From you I seek the talents of your best and most skilled in the arts of grace, power, and endurance. For she shall require you to instruct her in these ways. Those of you who will serve as her tutors step forward and state your names."
A murmur ran along the crowd. Each creature and humanoid exchanged looks, trying to decide who among them was most qualified to teach me. I suppose my position has more weight than I thought, I figured.
"We shall be the ones to serve the Mistress!" Came a strong voice from the back of the assembly.
At once, the crowd split allowing for several figures to come forth. Eleven they numbered, and when Jalak the Timegazer Magician moved to join them, they amounted to twelve.
"Mistress, I would be honored if I could introduce you to my fellow Performapal teammates. Please," Jalak turned to them.
A tall, muscular magician stepped forward. His spiked blond hair was parted on the side and held back by a jeweled headpiece. His skin was tanned and his green eyes were hard. His face sported a straight nose, thin lips, and smooth forehead. His neck was thick and his shoulders were broad. Wearing a sage green and gold trimmed jacket over dark wine pants, tied with a golden yellow sash, this mage was a commanding figure.
"I am Brom, the Oafdragon Magician." He knelt and brought his right hand to his heart.
After him came another. This one was the same height with blond and red spiked hair, pale skin, fine features, and clothed in robes and armor, complete with a large fur collar. His eyes were slightly nervous. He knelt next to Brom.
"Greetings. I am Gian (pronounced Gee ann). I am the Dragonpit Magician."
More came thereafter. A younger looking mage appeared. This one had reddish brown hair that trailed behind him in a thick braid. On his head he wore a hat similar to Gian's, only this mage's was white with gold trim, not blue. His face was cute and boyish, with soulful blue eyes. He was thin and lanky but graceful and his robes were elegantly arrayed. He wore a long coat, shorter in the front over tight black leotard-like pants that had two green straps around each thigh. His shoes were white with gold. Across his back he carried a double bladed sword. He went next Gian.
"I am called Lux. I am the Dragonpulse Magician and the pupil of the Dragonpit Magician. I am very excited to be at your service!" His voice was adorably eager.
I noticed Gian's eyes roll.
Next came a magician dressed in red and white performance clothes. His red top hat and gloves reminded me of an elaborate Victorian youth. His hair was purple and his eyes were a smoky blue. His face was partially covered by his high collar and scarf. Many blue jewels decorated the front of his coat, and armor pads covered his shoulders. Kneeing he stated, "My name is Penn. I am the Pendulum Sorcerer of the Performapal troupe."
His voice, even though his mouth was covered, was clear.
"I too offer my services!" It was the voice of a young girl. My first female Spellcaster. She was tiny, the size of a fairy. She had long blond pigtails tipped in red. She wore a sorcerer's cloth hat and a black mask that stopped above her nose. She wore a blue and light blue corset rimmed in pink, with a matching skirt, fishnets, and pointed blue shoes. White opera gloves and a black bow-tie completed her look.
"I am the Trump Witch of the Performapal troupe! Call me Seeka."
"And I am the Nobledragon Magician! My name is Kisa." Came the sixth magician. She was short, not quite as short as Seeka. Her robes were bulbous and embroidered covering a long magenta skirt, with pink hair, gold eyes, and many jewels.
The seventh mage was a small child too. Blond hair, half masked, pale skin and a black and purple joker's costume were her appearance.
"I'm Nyala, the Perfomapal Skullcrobat Joker!"
Then came a more powerful Energy source. More powerful than my other mages. This one was an upper Mid-level mage. He came forward, strutting his way. His long robes were whitish green, decorated with ancient Chinese inspired tassels and armor. He carried a shielded long sword, and had dark blue facial markings. The long dark cobalt hair swayed behind him and his eyes were like rubies.
He knelt in a fluid motion. "It is a pleasure. I am Pien Fang, the Xiangke Magician."
Pien Fang was the eighth mage. After him came another, this one female. She was tall like he was, and themed with shades of pinks, reds, and oranges. The base color of her dress was white and she was hooded, with a red mask covering the bottom portion of her face. Her right eye was covered by a silver patch, leaving her visible one a brilliant aqua. She knelt beside Pien Fang.
"I am Mei Ya, the Xiangsheng Magician." Her voice was like a bell, so pretty!
The ninth mage lined up right next to the others. This one was male, tall and fit. Dressed in black, hooded and caped, with astrological symbols and bordered with gold and jewels, this mage seemed mystical. Like Mei Ya, he had half of his face hidden. His skin was deathly pale and his hair was white.
"I am Jarle, the Insight Magician."
The tenth mage to emerge was another powerful Mid-leveler. This one was the most menacing of the group so far. His striking face was half hidden, his tight robes were black and gold, his kilt if you will was white and decorated with gold coins. Jewels like orange eyes adorned his shoulders, and a large gold circlet that looked like sun rays was attached to his back. He wielded a long staff topped with a large cylindrical golden container that reminded me of a religious censer or like an ancient bejeweled calendar. His skin was tanned but changed in the light to smoky lavender. His piercing eyes were a deep turquoise.
"Axel, the Oversight Magician."
When the last mage stepped forward, I admit I was relieved. This one was dressed in white and sky blue. His tall pointed hat had side pieces that came down to his waist. Light blond hair likewise trailed down to his hips. A silver breastplate and stomach protector shaped his chest. White leotard pants smoothed over his muscled legs, and a long cape lined with blue. His skin was a creamy white and his eyes were the brightest light blue. He had a kind and distant gaze.
His white half-mask was tight to his nose and mouth, outlining his lips and chin.
"I am the last of the Performapal troupe. My name is Helion. I am the Stargazer Magician."
"And I make the twelfth addition Mistress. Jalak, the Timegazer Magician. And together with my Performapal brothers and sisters, we will assist you in your journey to becoming the Master of Magicians." Jalak moved to stand with them and bowed at the waist to me.
My body heated with thrill and nerves. Behind Jalak, the eleven Spellcasters spoke again in one voice.
"Please accept us into the house of the Mistress of the Chaos Mage!"
By now the sun was over the trees and its glaring light was turning the air thick. I felt the sweat bead on my forehead and my back dampened. As I ran my eyes over each one, I felt slightly apprehensive about performing eleven Energy Exchanges at once. Some of which would be with upper Mid-levels. They would take the most Energy. For the most part they could all be trusted, but Pien Fang had an unusual undercurrent that unnerved me. Like he could possess a bad temper.
I walked over to where they knelt in line and folded my arms behind my back. I moved slowly, checking out each one. Like a queen assessing future knights I went past them. I stopped in front of Jalak.
"You trust them?"
"I do Mistress."
"Do they truly want to join me?"
"They do Mistress."
"I want to hear it from them. I do not want and will not, take those who do not wish it. I will not force you to join me. That is your personal choice." I said to them.
I saw their mild surprise. Did they honestly think I was going to twist their arms? Then each one answered.
"You have the Chaos Mage. I would feel privileged to be a part of your group."
"Are you all in agreement?" I asked again to make absolutely sure.
"We are!"
"Then it's settled. You guys can stand up now."
Like soldiers they rose to look at me. All of their eyes bore into mine and I felt the pride of a general.
"I'm now going to initiate an Energy Exchange. Since there are so many of you, I will open myself to receive your Energy. They will merge and you will cast off your previous power link to your world and draw your strength from me. We will be connected."
They nodded. The smaller mages, Kisa, Nyala, and Seeka, beamed with huge smiles. The older mages, like Lux, Mei Ya, and Pien Fang shared eager glances. Brom, Gian, Jarle, and Axel remained more composed but retained happy mouths. Helion was like Razel, calm and stoic. Of them all, besides Axel, Helion was the most calculating. Needless to say that Helion is often seen with Razel, and I dare say that the Stargazer Magician is the closest thing to a friend of the Chaos Mage.
"Everyone ready?" I asked bracing myself.
"We are!"
Instantly I released my Energy. It erupted from me in a whirl of bright blue, with thick flaming tendrils extending to where the eleven mages stood. I joined with their Energies. Each one had a different personality, a different view of life. Our Energies wrapped around each other and I felt the tugs of the more powerful mages taking larger amounts. From the large source of interlocking power I gasped, sensing my Energy flaring. It was a lot to handle! From behind me, over the roar and crackle of my Energy, I heard Neo whisper to Von.
"She's taking them in all at once? Not individually?"
Von responded with a tone of pure admiration. "Her powers have grown strong indeed."
The amount of Energy I extended and took in, though, was too much and my concentration on my two Spirits faded. I needed it to be over! It was going on too long! I tried not to show fatigue or strain but my time was running out. The upper Mid-levels took a lot of my Energy and so when it was finally completed, I wobbled on my feet. In order to keep from falling, I tensed my muscles, giving me the effect of a person fighting exhaustion.
"Welcome. I'll admit that this took more out of me than I thought, haha!" I weakly joked. "Now it's your turn against Razel. Good luck. Come Jalak."
As if I just told my newest eleven mages that they were sentenced to death, each one straightened and shot anxious glances between themselves. I willed my body to turn away and begin walking towards my waiting Spirits. I went by Razel who, while sporting a darkly sinister smirk, brushed the back of his left hand against mine. He was going to enjoy this.
"Now, make ready yourselves! I will not be gentle!" Came his deep warning.
In a flash, I sensed his advancement. My poor new mages did not stand a chance. Their yelps and grunt and alarmed screams told me so. Von, Lazar, Neo, Rai, Rae, and Brie saw me coming and noticed my semi-lucid state.
"Mistress, are you alright?" Rai asked concerned.
"Mmmm, my legs feel like jello." I said flopping my arms against my sides.
"You look as if you're going to collapse," Lazar chimed in moving forward.
"Well—I might. But I don't want to. I won't let myself do that. The last thing I need is for my new Spirits seeing me being carried away like some weak princess. I'll be damned before that shit happens. I may be a woman but I am far from a damsel in distress." I spat too harshly.
With so many male Spirits, I had to appear strong. Each new Duel Spirit will regard me based on my capabilities and if I displayed weakness this early in the game then they'd have no respect for me. My female mages are a different story, much more comforting and like sisters. But the men…even though I get along better with guys than girls, they still can't see me like this. So, back then when I took in those eleven mages I forbade myself to succumb to my exhaustion. However, I did allow support.
"Mistress, allow me to bring you back to the house," Von said coming closer to gently take my left arm.
"Do not carry me Von. My pride and reputation depends on it." I sighed.
"I will not," he smiled lightly at me. "But I can at least give you a shoulder to lean on. Come. Here stand like this. Now I'll put my arm here, and should you fall along the way, I will hold you up."
Von's right arm came around my waist, his body pressed to my side. My head did rest on his shoulder and my legs trudged forward. I heard how Razel's torture going on quite well. He'll be pleased.
"Thank you Von. I'd be a blubbering, melted mess if you weren't here." I chuckled.
His laughter was like a wind chime. The thick, hot breeze rolled his long dark hair softly. "It's my pleasure."
I was so happy then. I rubbed my temple on his shoulder, feeling the muscle underneath his white tunic shirt. It was only noticeable to me during these close proximities, his lean stature. Von was not nearly as muscular as some of my other mages, but he was by no means slight. His form was like that of a swimmer's. Lean and lithe, with a strong back and a slim waist, Von's long legs carried him with an easy gate. Like I mentioned in the beginning, on was shorter than Razel, but taller than I am. He's around 5'9". His kind, handsome face resembled a Tolkien elf, I guess that's one of the reasons why I enjoy just looking at him. He smelled of fresh grass and flowers that day, a perfect soothing combination. As he took me back inside, he told me stories of the Performapals, their shows, and their acrobatic feats. He was so excited that they were here that I smiled with him. I too was excited. I wanted to see what my new training procedures would be. Would I fly through the air like a Cirque du Soliel member? Or jump super high? Or do flips and things like that? I hoped so. That would be awesome. And while I'm not an Olympic athlete, I wanted to give it a try. My smile did not leave me even when I overheard Razel shouting.
"And where do you think you are off too little witch!? Your speed is nothing to mine! I'll end you just as I have the nine others! Don't presume that young Pien Fang will save you from me! Now come here!"
I was both happy and too tired to sense Razel turn his red eyes on me and Von, watching us. I was too out of it to know that upon seeing Von's arm around me, his body being used to uphold me, Razel's eyes narrowed and his mouth frowned ever so slightly.
Later that Day:
Once the new Spirits were officiated by Razel, Everyone set to work putting up the startlingly huge Big Top tent. Luckily, to outsiders, the field was empty due to Razel's shielding spell. I was feeling better then, I had eaten and rested inside. Von and Neo watched over me as I slept. Razel remained with the Performapals, those I did not take in due to their not being Spellcasters. He oversaw the tent's construction, ordering training grounds to be designated here and there based upon my increasing skill set. I was brought by later.
When I approached the tent, I had to gaze skyward that's how tall it was. Made of brightly decorated cloth, the Big Top had beautiful ornate gas-like lanterns dangling from each post. Thick ropes held the sides of the tent in place. Smaller, adjacent tents were brightly colored and lit with numerous lights. Around the Spirits carried out Razel's exact orders, happily chatting and laughing amongst themselves. I thought it funny how Razel just waltzed in and took charge of things but, that's who he was.
Von, Neo, and I entered into the main tent. Several of the female magicians automatically blushed and giggled upon sight of Von and Neo. They were both handsome, Neo being the far superior though. Both were single, and both were senior Duel Spirits. The girls went giddy. Neo ever the flirt winked at them. Farther away from us was Zef. He was talking with his fellow Pendulum Spellcasters, a type that I had yet to bring to me. From the looks of it, there was quite a few of them too.
"Holy crap."
The inside was vast and contained several platforms, trampolines, and high wires. There was a trapeze area too! Much to my surprise the interior training grounds were very utilitarian, not at all dazzling like the exterior. I looked up at the center; it seemed to go on forever.
"There you are. Come over here." Razel said from the center platform.
I made my way to the high stage and fumbled trying to figure out how I was going to get up there. There were no steps or ladders.
"Razel! I don't see a way! I need a ladder." I said walking around the large stage.
"Begging your pardon, Mistress, but this is part of your training! Lord Razel instructed us to begin immediately."
I saw Jalak. He was standing near Razel.
"Ok…then what do I do? Wriggle my nose?"
"You must use your powers to bring you up." Jalak said.
"I can do that?"
"You should. Every Spellcaster has the ability to levitate and or fly if need be. As our Master, you also will be expected to have this ability." Razel curtly told me.
"Ha! Well, maybe I missed that day of training, Razel! You never taught me how to levitate? Who am I? Jean Grey? C'mon. Is he right? Can you guys do this?" I turned to Neo and Von while pointing accusingly at Razel.
Without speaking both suddenly rose off of the ground and hovered casually. I glared evilly at them.
"I'm jealous and pissed you never told me this."
"It is easy Mistress. Just don't think about it." Neo said scratching his ear.
"How?" I was staring at them dejectedly.
"Well—do you think of breathing? Or walking? Or going to sleep?" Von questioned. "Of course you do not. These actions are natural for you as a mortal. Likewise levitation is a natural action for Spellcasters."
"But how can I not think of doing something that does not come naturally to me because I'm not a Duel Spirit Von? I have to think about it because I've seen it and I can't do it."
"On the contrary Mistress. Before you were unable to levitate as we do. But since you are growing stronger and have more Spirits under your control, things such as this will be second nature. Remember when I told you about those perks?" Von used his powers to come closer to me.
"You mean…since I have more of you guys I can do freaking awesome things!?" I got extremely excited. "I can do this!? I can freaking levitate!?" I began to laugh and shout in disbelief.
"Why don't you give it a try?" Neo said. "We'll catch you if you fall."
"Ok! Ok so how do I do this? Ok, focus, or no! Don't focus! Breath. Ok, I'm going to do it. Ok, here we go."
So I stood there trying not to focus. I tried really hard. Nothing happened. The more I tried, the more I remained on the ground. Then panic set in. Panic, embarrassment, irritation, and frustration. I probably would not have gotten as flustered if my mages were not waiting for me to start floating. My face flushed.
"Nothing's happening…is it?" I meekly asked after a while.
Von and Neo gave me sympathetic looks. I hated that.
"It takes time Mistress."
"Nonsense! We do not have time! How can you not perform this rudimentary task? Now watch! This will be the first and last time I help you so pay attention girl!" Razel's voice echoed. In his customary manner, he angrily stomped over to me. "Honestly, you can be such a disappointment!"
"Damnnit Razel! Shut the fuck up and stop yelling at me! I'm still learning how to do this!" I shot back. I knew a fight was coming. Von, Jalak, Zef and Neo just painfully gazed upwards trying to imagine themselves elsewhere.
"How dare you speak to me that way!" Razel barked as he levitated from the platform to the ground. "You act like a spoiled child! If you do not achieve this, how can you call yourself the Master of our race?" Razel stood in front of me, bending slightly to bring his blue face close.
"Oh, because I can't levitate like a mutant I'm now unworthy of you? Maybe you should've taught me how to do this before springing it on me I don't know, three hours ago!?" I snapped at him.
Near to where we argued, Kisa, Seeka and Lux approached to quietly ask Von, and Neo, "Is this normal?"
"Yes. It will be over soon."
"Why don't you pay attention to what I teach you!?" Razel yelled.
"Why don't you become a better teacher because something's lacking!" I yelled back.
"I agree," Razel harshly tapped the top of my head. "Something is missing!"
I slapped his hand away. "Don't do that! I'm not stupid!"
"You must be! For only an imbicile would not know how to levitate!" Razel growled, his red eyes fierce. "Now watch and pay attention to what I tell you!"
"Fuck off I don't need your help!"
"Yes you do! Right now you are shaming me and my brethren!"
That hurt me. "You son of a bitch! If I'm shaming you it's your fault then!" I felt the Energy in my churn.
"This is proof of your immaturity! You cannot take blame for yourself! You will never learn and you will never advance!" Razel's voice was strong and rang throughout the tent. The Performapal and Pendulum Spellcasters stopped what they were doing and cautiously glanced in our direction.
"Watch me!" I yelled back.
The next thing I knew I was two hundred feet in the air. From below, Neo, Von, Zef, Jalak, and my other new Spellcasters loudly applauded.
"That's the way Mistress!" Jalak hollered up at me.
"Impressive!"
"Well done Mistress!" Brom said.
Levitation is the weirdest feeling in the world. You know how you feel when you swing really, really high? Or jump on a trampoline? That adrenaline rush of being weightless and suspended by nothing? That's what it feels like. Your heart races because your mind knows what you are doing is not natural, but at the same time it knows that it is. Von was right, once you stop concentrating on doing it, it's just like breathing. You acknowledge doing it, like if I wanted to go down I have to picture myself going down. But I don't have to focus on it the whole way. I saw Razel standing quietly, watching me. I glared down at him with folded arms.
"What do you have to say now Razel!?"
"Release the high wire!" He shouted to Nyala.
Nyala readily did as she was instructed and ushered for the tent's high wire to be magically dropped. A three hundred foot long wire held at both ends by wide poles thundered to the platform. Razel then lifted off of the ground and shot towards me.
"The fact that you are able to levitate and at such a high altitude is promising. Now you will master your balance on the high wire by utilizing your new power. If you teeter use your powers to straighten. If you fall, rise yourself up. There will be no safety net."
I just stared hard at him. At his arrogant blue face. "You know, Razel," I began.
"What?" He asked with a small raise of a brow. His head giving a curt tilt.
"When you got me to fight back with you, you destroyed my favorite tree—which I'm still upset about—and now you pissed me off again to the point where I did as you wanted."
"Yes? Your point being?"
"Why do you think it happens this way?"
"It is nothing strange. The stronger the emotion, the stronger the effect on one's magic. Sometimes you need a little prodding to jump the hurdle."
I blinked. "You did that on purpose?"
He shrugged. "You can be angry with me that I caused you grief. But look where you are. You're up here. You don't know this but the height you achieved, and the speed with which you got here, is hardly found in most mortals. Many Spellcasters take months to reach this height, let alone on their first attempt. And to be able to maintain this position without tiring is a feat in itself. I may not always praise you or be the most compassionate mage, but you should be proud of what you have done. And you did it on your own."
"But you pushed me," I tried to contradict.
"Yet I did not show you. You have what it takes to be the Master of Magicians, there is no doubt. But there are times when Von's gentile approach takes too long. Plus, teaching you these things is not his place. He may teach you superfluous tricks, little niceties and such. But your progress falls under me."
We floated down to the wire where I precariously balanced myself by flinging my arms out. My whole body wobbled, trying to stay upright. A sheen of sweat formed on my skin from the strength it took to manage this. Razel landed in front of me and, turning to face me, walked backwards. He was like a cat, his balance was solid. He walked on the high wire as if he were strolling down the street.
"Follow me. I'll go slowly."
Tentatively I took a step, then another. "I think I got this?" I questioned myself.
"It's best if you do not look down. Just keep focusing on me." His voice went low as he said this. He reached out his right hand to me. "Come for me as if you were going to take my hand."
I was too nervous to be embarrassed. His voice, with its smooth currant and deep undertone, was a spell on me. In no time I was able to manage the wire without taking my eyes off of him.
"Yes—that's it. Just a bit more. Keep looking into my eyes." Razel soothed quietly.
Being up there with him, I felt safe. I know it sounds stupid, but when I'm with Razel I get this completely calming sensation. Yes, we argue, but I know I can always trust him and that he will always be there for me. And sometimes, when the lighting is just right, like it was then, Razel's beauty was hypnotizing.
The three hundred foot wire seemed like ten by the time we reached the other side. Razel's charm had worked and I had felt no fear. I took his outstretched hand and joined him on the small metal platform. We stood there together.
"Very good Mistress. You did not falter once." He lightly squeezed my hand.
"I'll say it again. We make a great team Razel," I smiled up at him.
My Chaos Mage gave me one of his rare smiles. It was small, barely discernable, but it was there. His red eyes softened briefly and I knew he was proud of me. When we descended, my other mages congratulated me and the younger ones asked if they could work with me next. Neo, for some reason, was extremely excited about my feat of levitation and ran over to me. Gathering me in his strong arms, Neo picked me up like a bride and spun round with me.
"That was amazing! Mistress when I saw you shoot up like a dragon taking flight, I was humbled to be one of your Duel Spirits!" His god-like face was smiling happily and my heart nearly jumped out of my chest.
Neo's long blond hair flared behind him as he and I turned. His emerald eyes were joyful.
"Put me down Neo!" I laughed. "You're making me blush!"
My efforts to stop him were futile as I wrapped my arms around his neck, laughing and cheering with him.
"Neo, set the Mistress down." Razel barked.
Neo obliged. "I cannot wait to see what tomorrow will hold." He kissed my forehead and the warm sensation of his lips transformed my skin from slightly tanned to molten red.
On the ground again, I thanked my many mages. Then Rai burst through the tent flaps, hurrying towards me.
"Rai, what's wrong?" I asked concerned once I noticed the look of worry on his face.
"There…is…phew… There is a man asking for you Mistress…the same man that arrived a few days ago…" Rai panted.
"A man? Did he see you?"
"No. I left through the back door and came straight here."
"What is this, boy?" Razel said. "Compose yourself and speak."
"Yes Sir. Sorry Mistress. That man with the dark glasses, the one called Roland—he's waiting for you."